Hardrider NEWS
Valentino Rossi will not be on the 2022 MotoGP grid after deciding to retire from the sport at the end of his 26th Grand Prix campaign.
Rossi made the announcement in a special press conference held at the Red Bull Ring ahead of the Grand Prix of Styria this weekend. The nine-time world champion made his decision during the summer break; however, thoughts of retirement had been increasing after each race of a so far difficult 2021 season.
"I said during the season I’d take my decision for next year after the summer break," Rossi told members of the media. "I decided to stop at the end of the season, so unfortunately this will be the last season as a MotoGP rider. It’s difficult, it’s a very sad moment because it’s difficult to say and to know that next year I will not race with motorcycles. I’ve done this for more or less 30 years so next year my life will change.
"It’s a difficult decision but you have to understand that in the end, in all the sports, the results make the difference. We have half a season left, and I think this will be more difficult when we arrive at the last race. For now, I just to tell everybody my decision. It’s okay, I can’t complain about my career."
Rossi revealed that there was an option in place for him to join his brother Luca Marini at his own team in MotoGP. The Aramco Racing Team VR46 project will join the grid next year with Ducati, however Rossi opted not to race as he felt that one year was not enough to get the most out of a new project, which would have included him swapping his R1 for the Desmocedici.
During his illustrious career Rossi has competed for Aprilia (125cc & 250cc), Honda, Yamaha, and Ducati. During that time Rossi became a nine-time world champion and is the only rider to have won the 125cc, 250cc, 500cc and MotoGP titles.
In the premier class Rossi has entertained fans around the world with his flamboyant personality and post-race celebrations, as well as his heated rivalries with some of the best riders on the grid. Some of the most-viewed moments in MotoGP history have involved Rossi, including his last lap duels with Sete Gibernau and Jorge Lorenzo, his his battle at the Corkscrew, at Laguna Seca, with Casey Stoner and infamous clash with Marc Marquez at Sepang.
Rossi won premier class races onboard Honda and Yamaha machinery, whilst he also stood on the podium three times for Ducati during a tough two-year stint with the Italian manufacturer.
"There are three championships that are the most important in my career. They are 2001, when I won the last 500cc championship, 2004 when I won the first year with Yamaha and 2008. Already in 2008, I was old and I was finished because after five championships in a row in MotoGP, I lost for two years, so usually in a normal career it’s over. But by changing to Bridgestone, I was able to come back to the top and fight with Lorenzo, Stoner and [Dani] Pedrosa and won two more championships.
"Seriously, I don't have any regrets about the choices I made. For example, racing for Ducati was very difficult for me because we didn’t win, but it was a great challenge. An Italian rider on an Italian bike. If we were able to win it would have been historic.
"I am a little bit sad not to win the 10th championship, especially because I think I deserve this – for my level and for my speed. I lost two times in the last race, so I think I deserve the 10th title, but anyway, it’s like this. I don’t think I can complain about the result of my career."
It was also Rossi's impact off the track which has defined his career. The current Petronas Yamaha rider became a worldwide celebrity and brought MotoGP into the mainstream spotlight. Rossi is MotoGP's version of Michael Jordan, Cristiano Ronaldo and Tiger Woods. Even people who didn't watch MotoGP knew who Valentino Rossi was.
At the height of his career every single race meeting would be a home race for Rossi. Grandstands would be full of yellow merchandise, and the number 46 could be spotted around the entire circuit, and in cities around the world, whilst yellow smoke from flares would cover the circuit before and after the race.
"For some reason, I don’t know why, I was able to bring a lot of people closer to motorcycle racing. Without me, they don’t know about MotoGP. A lot of people started to follow motorcycle racing to follow me, and I think this is the most important thing that I do in my career, together with the results.
"I seriously don't know why, but I think that I entertained a lot of people on Sunday afternoons. For one or two hours on a Sunday they didn't think about nothing, and they just enjoyed following my races. I think this is the best thing."
Rossi fans around the world will no doubt be sad to see their hero disappear from the grid next season. The 42-year-old, as thing stand, has nine more races of his illustrious career remaining, before he then sets his sights on a four-wheeled career in 2022.
"I have to say to my fans that I have given my everything for a long, long time because it's more than 25 years. I've always tried my maximum to stay at the top. I have incredible support from all the fans around world. Sometimes, it’s difficult to understand for me, and it's a little bit of a surprise, but this always make me very proud. I have to say thank you to all the fans and I think we’ve all enjoyed this together."
I want to be able to drive a few miles to the race, prep the road, heat the tire, and dump the clutch. I want to take the human error out of it. My theory (if the clutch is adjustable then you should be able to set the r's and dump the clutch once you get it adjusted). Im also thinking that im going to switch from a small shot of gas to a low boost turbo real soon.
#3
I think you are looking for a hand slider. That lets you street ride (limited throttle) with no clutch adjustment, then execute your fixed rpm/throw the clutch lanuch method. My only experience with a single stage lockup was that it was like a "stock" hand clutch setup as far as launching.
Lol you wanna dump it you better ditch the single stage lockup. They do however make a "bleeder" valve thingy that goes inline and is adjustable therefore letting you "dump" the clutch by the handle but not getting the "dump" effect on the clutch itself.
Never heard of this inline adjustable clutch fluid release valve. What is it called? Who makes it? Does it work? Is it consistant? Sounds like a great idea.
mps makes it warning its kinda big I mounted mine were overflow bottle was.
im just releasing button that activates delay timer that triggers it im using it with crossover delay timer 4 bracket racing.
I know there's weights on lockup if its bogging reduce or remove weights.
What is your 60's using this mps device
mps makes it warning its kinda big I mounted mine were overflow bottle was.
im just releasing button that activates delay timer that triggers it im using it with crossover delay timer 4 bracket racing.
I know there's weights on lockup if its bogging reduce or remove weights.
Do you use the flow control feature?
Yes that's 1 I have there 1.50--1.53 stock gen 1 busa with 300lb rider.
I removed overflow bottle for coolant +mounted it there got longer line 4 overflow bottle relocated it gong into smaller botte ziptied 2 stock swingarm. I leave on top yellow off button then delay box triggers it when 2 release. I have several track championships with this set up.I also have adjustable rpm limiter or launch box.
so if you took the delay box out of the picture then you pull up to the line pull in the clutch lever, push and hold the button, release the clutch lever, set your rpms, release the button, and then wot, and the mps hydraulic clutch release slides the clutch to give you a consistant 1.50 60'. Am I understanding this correctly?
That's the intent of the system. It's really just a line lock with a bleed valve. Keep in mind you'll have to adjust the bleed valve to get your best 60'. You won't have the adjustability of the hand slider so you probably won't get as good of a 60'
yes, I personally think u can take your thumb off a button faster than hand of lever so might improve reaction times as well.
This sounds like a winner to me. Gearjammer are you still running a stock clutch? Do you have heavier springs? What did you use for your overflow tank? Do you have any pics? I know you said it was large is it heavy as well?
Also what rpm is your box set to?
Remember, he's got a wheelie bar so your adjustments will be different. How long is your bike?
This sounds like a winner to me. Gearjammer are you still running a stock clutch? Do you have heavier springs? What did you use for your overflow tank?
Do you have any pics? I know you said it was large is it heavy as well?
had @ 7,800 rpm but went to 7000rpm overflow just a cheap little plastic bottle ziptied to arm I can get pic later, im just running stock clutch
+11''. but i need to cut a link or two out because I lost some weight and it dont stay planted as good now.
I went to 67" this year and just went 1.31 60' with no clutch adjustment (added gear) with my hand slider. My goal is to get reliably into the 1.2's on stock motor. I think you'll have a hard time doing that with just the bleeder setup, but I may be wrong.
What hand slider do you have? Is it hard to make adjustments and get dialed in? 1.31 is something to be proud of. If you left like that on me i would probably burn up trying to catch you. Nooo he's getting away.....hit the button.......rev limiter
If you do a bit of looking around, The flow control valve can be bought from industrial supply places such as Granger or MSC. Called a mirometer valve. The electic solnoid is sold at both or from moroso as a line lock. I put mine together for just under $45.
How Much Nitrous Can a Gen1 Busa Run
There is a lot of questions about this topic - over and over again... so let me throw in what I learned last year about the topic. Im too in a process to retune the ecu for a drykit for next summer with a crunched regulator for few additional pones compared to a stock setup.
First of all the top hp limit is the fuel systems ability to deliver constant amount of fuel. With stock bike that is said to be around 215rwhp. We all know that a stock bike delivers around 155rwhp so the fuel system capability allows mofifications worth of around 60hp. If the bike is upgraded so that its cammed and piped it may deliver e.g. 175rwhp which means that there is about 40 more ponies before the fuel system max capability is exceeded. For 40 ponies the jet size is appr. 34.
Jet Hp gain (estimated rwhp) Required fuel increase
#32 38 12%
#34 40 15%
#36 45 15%
#38 50 17%
#40 66 20%
#42 65 22%
But then there is another interesting parameter which is often omitted from the equation. If running an instant rich box that locks the injectors open (from any manufacturer or self made) the limit is related to the max RPM you plan to run. I learned from dynoing my bike that Initially it will be very rich and loose about 20 ponies but then keep on running leaner and leaner until you hit the ignition cut off limit at around 11.5k (depends on EU/US model). So the RPM when you hit and release the button is critical, because with locking the injectors open the AFR will be set by RPM !
With powercommander the limit is set by max injector duty cycle which means that the ecu most likely cuts the inejectors sooner than when the max injector capacity is exceeded. About the fuel softcut (which reduces the fuel to appr 50% on outer cylinders) I am a bit uncertain how it works with PC.
What ever way one goes I would keep RPM off from the limiters (or get someone to redo the limiters) when running nitrous close to theorethical limits - and just to be on safe side also add a window switch to switch off the solenoid at around 10.5k well before hitting the factory limiter.
The safest way would be to ask DaveO to set your rpm limiters so that its always based on ignition cut rather than fuel cut and set the ignition cut low enough not to overrun the injectors. Additionally he may be able to install a window switch relay to your ecu (to the airbox flap box control relay output) to turn off the nitrous solenoid at certain RPM. And if you really desire a few more ponies, there is always an option to trim the intank regulator to bring the 215rwhp a bit higher 😉
ps. Dont forget that the bottle pressure is important too when thinking about the max jet size. On a warm day initially the pressure will be high but get lower when the gas is released. This is due to the fact that when the gas expands it requires energy and the bottle just gets cooler. The following table indicates the bottle pressures on some sample temperatures. The pressure increases only up to 35.5C at which point the gas changes form and flow does not anymore increase (This all in theory and based on some articles in internet, have not verified this in practise).
Temp Bottle Nitrous jet size
36C 1051psi Baseline jet size
34C 1000psi -2 jet size
29C 900psi -1 jet size
24C 800psi Baseline jet size
18C 700psi +1 jet size
12C 600psi +2 jet size
Bottle warmers should make the launch temperature more constant ... but dont have one. Here we do not often have +20C in shades, but when the sun is shining ... and waiting in the lineup on the track ... the temp under the hump is more than 30C ...
But once again - this is my personal opinion and I am not a professional tuner with tons of experience with different setups - this what works for me may not work for someone else...
As part of the gen2 1441 project it was time to look into the fuelpump. According to the manual the stock pump is capable of 79LPH which corresponds to 220-240hp. When opening the pump the Mitsubishi type code was exactly the same as gen1, only the powerconnector was changed so no doubt - this pump needed to be replaced.
Then I laid on the desk three pumps next to each other:
Stock gen2 pump
Bosch HP pump
Walbro HP pump
The Walbro is a bit thicker and also longer which meant that it was not a direct fit. Like with gen1 the Bosch pump is a direct fit, only powerconnector needs to be modified and top plastic support cut from one edge.
Bosch 0 580 314 068 engraved in plastic casing that needs to be cut open to get the pump out, below is a picture of the plastics cut open. Bosch us supposed to be an Audi replacement pump. Same pump may be inside some other casings too, but this is the one found so far. We flowtested all three pumps last summer. Bosch flow is the same with Walbro, but Bosch is capable for higher pressure before safety valve opens so Bosch is obviously the favourite choise.
Lightning Motorcycles Update |
To the Lightning Motorcycles community: If you didn't see it earlier this week, we thought you may be interested in this announcement from Arcimoto, Inc. about a collaboration with Lightning to jointly develop a three-wheel conversion kit for the Lightning LS-218 based on the Arcimoto tilting trike technology. |
Built on the platform of the Lightning LS 218 and outfitted with Arcimoto’s patented tilting trike technology, the new electric bike will look to set the record for fastest three-wheel motorcycle at Bonneville. EUGENE, Ore.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Arcimoto, Inc.® (NASDAQ: FUV), makers of fun, affordable, and ultra-efficient electric vehicles for everyday drivers and fleets, today announced a collaboration with Lightning Motorcycles with the goal to develop the fastest tilting three-wheel motorcycle in the world—gas or electric—using its patented Tilting Motor Works TRiO tilting trike technology. “From the moment I met Richard Hatfield and saw the Lightning for myself at Bonneville, I knew there was the potential to create an electric trike unlike anything in the history of motorcycles, ” said Bob Mighell, Arcimoto’s Chief Tilting Officer, who himself broke the land-speed record for 3-wheeled motorcycles at the 2013 Motorcycle Speed Trials held at Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. “This will be the first time we outfit an electric bike with the TRiO kit, and it certainly won’t be the last, as we drive toward a sustainable future faster than ever before.” The Lightning SuperBike set a record as the world’s fastest production motorcycle, electric or otherwise, with the SCTA official World Record of 215.960 mph and a best timed run of 218.637 mph at Bonneville during Speedweek in 2011. The record-setting run was powered entirely by solar energy at an estimated cost of only 8 cents. “As the world’s leading manufacturer of high performance electric motorcycles, we are excited to bring our technology and know-how to the collaboration with Arcimoto for the three-wheel market. The convergence of our proprietary technology, the market adoption of EVs, and the widely recognized environmental benefits of clean energy propulsion make this an excellent and exciting time to bring these vehicles to the mass market,” said Richard Hatfield, Founder and CEO of Lightning Motorcycles. “Our vision is to see Lightning’s electric motorcycles provide performance-oriented and environmentally conscious transportation, as well as adrenaline inducing fun, for both new and experienced riders all over the world. This collaboration amplifies our vision. It’s an honor to build the first electric bike outfitted with the TRiO alongside ‘Bonneville Bob Mighell,’ who has proven throughout his career that trikes can, and should, fly.” Arcimoto’s Tilting Motor Works TRiO is the leading tilting three-wheel conversion kit for touring motorcycles. TRiO allows the rider to lean naturally, maintaining performance and the thrill of the ride while increasing safety, stability, and confidence. TRiO kits can be augmented with the TiltLock leveling system, allowing the bike to stand up by itself while stopped at lights or in traffic. “This collaboration is something that could only happen between two legendary speed demons of Bonneville,” said Mark Frohnmayer, Arcimoto Founder and CEO. “While Plaid-level performance has never been a part of the Arcimoto narrative, proving our tilting trike technology beyond ludicrous speed will give us, and our customers, added comfort that our future micromobility solutions are stable under the most demanding conditions. Further this first adaptation of the TRiO for an electric motorcycle is in full alignment with Arcimoto’s mission to catalyze sustainable, emissions-free mobility.” The prototype collaboration trike is anticipated to be unveiled at the “FUV and Friends Summer Showcase” to take place at the Portland International Raceway on July 26. To request a ticket, send an email to summershowcase@arcimoto.com. Pricing and availability of the TRiO Kit for the Lightning LS 218 will be announced at a later date. For the latest company updates, follow Arcimoto on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. For even more information, visit Arcimoto.com. About Lightning Lightning Motorcycles produces high-performance premium electric motorcycles. Lightning products have been proven in competition against the best gas motorcycles in the world and have incorporated this innovation and experience to deliver a combination of performance, price and rider experience that positions Lightning to drive mainstream adoption of electric motorcycles. Lightning is currently producing two platforms in the company’s facility in Hollister, California and is preparing to expand production and extend its product line into several additional platforms to address the global market. For more information, please visit LightningMotorcycle.com. About Tilting Motor Works Tilting Motor Works was founded by Bob Mighell with the mission to build a tilting three-wheel motorcycle with increased safety and stability without compromising performance. Arcimoto acquired Tilting Motor Works this year in order to accelerate the deployment of true sustainable micromobility solutions for the world. About Arcimoto, Inc Arcimoto (NASDAQ: FUV) develops and manufactures ultra-efficient and affordable electric vehicles to help the world shift to a sustainable transportation system. Now available to preorder customers in California, Oregon, Washington, and Florida, the Arcimoto FUV® is purpose-built for everyday driving, transforming ordinary trips into pure-electric joyrides. Available for preorder, the Deliverator® and Rapid Responder™ provide last-mile delivery and emergency response functionality, respectively, at a fraction of the cost and environmental impact of traditional gas-powered vehicles. Two additional concept prototypes built on the versatile Arcimoto platform are currently in development: the Cameo™, aimed at the film and influencer industry; and the Roadster, designed to be the ultimate on-road fun machine. Every Arcimoto vehicle is built at the Arcimoto Manufacturing Plant in Eugene, Oregon. |
There are a few books you can buy that have lots of info on this but the one that is the best is "The nitrous oxide high performance manual" by Trevor "the wizard of nos" langfield. In his book he breaks down all the major nos company's kits and compared them. This book is a must have. Ever little detail of injecting nos is broken down and explained. I will type his chapter on wet vs. dry.
Dry systems versus wet systems
A wet system is the traditional nitrous system setup, conisting of a fuel and nitrous solenoid and an extra (combined in most cases) fuel and nitrous injector, which is mounted in the induction system as a convenient way to introduce the fuel and nitrous oxide. The complete system works almost separately to the rest of the engines's fuel system. Wet systems are practically universal and are suitable for engines with fuel injection and carburettors. A wet system is so called because the fuel is injected into the induction system, "wetting" the manifold internals with fuel along the way (whether the manifold is originally a dry fuel injection manifold or a wet carburettor manifold).
Dry systems use the same principles to introduce nitrous oxide into the engine, i.e. a control solenoid with an injector positioned in the inductions system. However, the fuel enrichment methos id completely different and doesn't require a solenoid or an extra injector. Instead of using a standalone fuel control system, which works independently of the engine's fuel injection system, a dry system utilises the surplus fuel delivery capacity of the original fuel system. The fuel enrichment is then added throught the orginal injectors by either increasing the fuel pressure or extending the on-time of the injectors. A "dry" system is so called because the additional fuel doesn't "wet" the inlet tract on its way to the engine, and is injected by the engine's own injectors.
While the concept of dry systems has the potential to supass traditional wet systems, most current methods of making the fuel system deliver more fuel are at best inadequate. As metioned earlier, the majority of current dry systems increase the fuel flow in one of two ways:
1)Current mass-market dry systems increase the fuel pressure to increase the fuel flow throught the injectors. This is achieved by supplying low pressure nitrous gas to the original fuel pressure regulator or a very small bleed off jet. The standart injector pulse width is maintained and, as a consequence, restricts the fuel flow limiting the potential power gain from the system. Although it might well be possible to boost the fuel pressure to in exces of 80psi, it's pointless if it supasses the injectors's flow capacity. some injectors aren't capable of operating at double the normal 35-45psi fuel pressure, so a general safe rule is not to increase the pressure above 40%.
2)Electronically increase the injector pulse width. an electronic unit sends a signal to the ecu, telling it to keep the injectors open for longer and, in extreme cases, fully open at wide open throttle. How much it's possible to increase the fuel flow using this method will depend on the maxumum flow rate of the current injectors and their original maximum duty cycle. If the duty cycle is currently 80% they pulse open for 80% of the time and off for 20% of the time. This means that fuel flow can only be increased by a maximim of 20% by keepting the injectors open 100% of the time.
In theory, s system which moderately boosts the fuel pressure and extends the pulse with of the injector on time would be capable of adding the maximum amount of extra power. Just how much potential is remaining in the fuel system will still determine the limit of the potential power that can be gained by fitting a dry nitrous system.
Dry systems have a number of advantages over wet systems:
1) the potential for fuel drop out and fuel puddles at higher power levels is completely eliminated.
2)Theoretically, fuel distributilnd to each cylinder is more likely to be equeal, but in practive, se wet of original fuel injectors are unlikely to flow even amounts of fuel. Even if fuel was evenly distributed, this is not necessarily and advantage over the distribution achieved with wet systems.
3)The installation is generally simpler.
4)Fewer components should make the system cheaper however, it rarely does, especially when all aspects are taken into account.
While dry systems have undoubtedly solved some problems, they have created others:
1)The fuel may be distributed evenly (although that can't be determined for certain without first testing the injector flow) with current dry systems, but the use of a single nitrous injector obviously can't achieve the same degree of even distribution that the fuel system should achieve. In some instances, it can result in the majority of nitrous oxide being fed to just on cylinder, whilst that cylinder only recieves a quarter of the extra fuel (in case of a 4 cylinder engine). The consequence of this extreme example would be a melted plug at best, or a broken piston at worst.
2)OEM fuel injectors are not supllied in particularly well-matched sets from the factory and their performance deteriorates with use, resulting in partial blockages and flow restrictions. Therefore, unless you either have them cleaned, flow tested and matched, or buy a new set of matched injectors, you run an increased risk of compnent failure due to one cylinder running leaner than the others.
3)The standard fuel injectors are restrictive and can only flow enough extra fuel to add 50 or 75bhp (depending on engine size) at the very most. However, you can fit specifically designed, high flow fuel injectors that are capable of flowing 200bhp or more.
4)All fixed hit dry and wet kits deliver a constant amount of nitrus oxide under all conditions, regardless of rpm. A wet system delivers a matched amount of fuel in the same indepenent way, regardless of engine rmp. However, this is not the case with dry kits where the fuel deliver varies with rpm due to the crude methods currently being used to boost the fuel pressure. The engine's normal fuel delivery varies with rpm and load, so adding the fuel enrichment for the nitrous kit by boosting the fuel pressure will do the same. This is far from ideal when the nitrous is delivered at a constant rate resulting in less than optimum results.
Think of Canada, and you probably think of hockey. Makes sense, given that it is the country’s national past time and official winter sport. But Canadians are no less wild about drag racing.
No, really. Doubt our word? Consider this: the Great White North boasts no fewer than 21 drag racing associations and 10 hot rod associations. Four year ago, John Scotti founded the Canadian Drag Racing Hall of Fame, which already includes 100 inductees like racing legends Bernie Fedderly, Gary Beck, and Dale Armstrong, who won 12 International Hot Rod Association events and another dozen International Hot Rod Association events in the 1970s.
All those gearheads need somewhere to race, of course, and Canada has a whole lot of drag strips. There are 26 by our count, spanning the country from the coastal province of Newfoundland to the rugged lands of British Columbia and as far north as Fairview, Alberta. Here’s our guide to the dragstrips of Canada, listed from east to west. Let us know if we missed any..
Newfoundland
Eastbound Dragway: Sanctioned by the IHRA, this quarter-mile strip is located farther east than any other. It hosts events from June through the first week of October.
Nova Scotia
Cape Breton Dragway: Opened in 2016, this cool old-school eighth-mile facility on Canada’s east coast is one of the country’s newest drag strips. It’s located near Sydney on Cape Breton Island.
Greenfield Dragway: Members of the Nova Scotia Drag Racers Association (NSDRA) host eighth-mile races at the Liverpool Airport from June through September for five classes of vehicles including Super Pro and Jr. Dragster.
New Brunswick
Miramichi Raceway Inc: This quarter-mile strip is located in Miramichi on Canada’s east coast. It open for the season in May with its popular High School Challenge event.
Québec
Napierville Dragway: Built in 1962, this NHRA quarter-mile track is one of Canada’s oldest. It’s also one of the country’s most popular, with many events including several for Pro Mods and imports. It’s located just south of Montreal, not far from the Vermont border.
Piste d’accélération Pont-Rouge: Also in Quebec, northeast of Montreal, this quarter-mile strip was built in 1966. It still has a cool retro vibe, and a full schedule is planned for 2019.
St-Elie Motorsports Complex: This old school eighth-mile facility is located east of Montreal and draws racers with muscle cars as well as imports and motorcycles. Admission is only $5.
Ontario
Elliot Lake Dragway: Every July for the last 20 years, this small eighth-mile strip in Elliot Lake, Ontario, hosts the North Shore Challenge, a grassroots drag race that draws cars from all over central Canada. Last year, a jet car showed up.
Grand Bend Motorplex: Located northeast of Detroit in Huron County, this quarter-mile IHRA sanctioned strip is one of Canada’s finest. Dozens of events are scheduled for 2019, including the Ontario Nostalgia Drag races for 1974-and-older race cars.
Luskville Dragway: Sanctioned by the NHRA, this Ottawa strip was built in 1969. It runs both eighth-mile and quarter-mile action. It has a full schedule planned for its 40th anniversary season, including big dollar bracket racing, funny cars at night, and Jr. Dragsters.
Northern Thunder Dragway: Operating for 20 years, this eight-mile strip near Kirkland Lake looks like a fun place; it even hosts snowmobile snow drags in March. The racer with the best reaction time at each Friday’s test and tune receives a $100 gift certificate.
St. Thomas Raceway Park: Billed as The Go Fast Capital of Canada, this quarter-mile strip is located about halfway between Detroit and Toronto. It’s a busy place, open every weekend from May through October.
Shannonville Motorsports Park: About 100 miles northeast of Toronto, this quarter-mile strip hosts a once-a-month race series. Season plans include test and tune on Fridays and competition each Saturday and Sunday.
Toronto Motorsports Park: Home of the Canadian Nitro Nationals and the Canadian Funny Car Championships, this NHRA-sanctioned facility is one of Canada’s largest and busiest dragstrips. It’s located about 70 miles south of Toronto.
Manitoba
Interlake Dragway: Located just north of Winnipeg in Gimli, this IHRA-sanctioned quarter-mile strip packs a full schedule from May through September, including test and tunes, brackets, and Jr. Dragsters.
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan International Raceway: Located in the heart of Canada, this IHRA-sanctioned track has been a hotbed of drag racing for more than 45 years. Since 1986, it has been operated by members of the Saskatchewan Drag Racing Association, who continue to improve the facility.
Swift Current Airport: With the hustle and the passion of the Swift Current Drag Racing Association, this facility hosts several drag races on the airport’s runway each summer. The strip is located in southwest Saskatchewan. It’s grassroots drag racing at its best.
Alberta
Castrol Raceway: Sanctioned by the NHRA, this quarter-mile dragstrip is located in Edmonton. It seats about 8500 fans, and its tower features 22 Sky Suites. The raceway is home to the Rocky Mountain Nationals, touted as the largest drag racing event in Canada.
Central Alberta Raceways: Located in Rimbey, just south of Edmonton, this quarter-mile facility is set to host a number a major events this summer, including bracket racing, CDMRA, and a No Prep Shootout.
Pats Auto Supply Motorsports Park: Canadian eighth-mile drag racing is alive and well at this IHRA-sanctioned facility in Beaverlodge. The track also runs many quarter-mile events and is operated by the North Peace Bracket Racing Association (NPBRA).
Medicine Hat Dragstrip: Located about 180 miles southeast of Calgary, this NHRA-sanctioned facility runs a handful of quarter-mile events every season and hosts seven Friday Night test and tune sessions for street legal machines.
British Columbia
Mission Raceway: This impressive quarter-mile facility in Mission hosts many NHRA Drag Racing events from April through October, including Pro Mods, the NHRA Summit ET Racing Series, and Friday night test and tunes.
Nitro Motorsports Park: We love the low-key vibe of this quarter-mile strip located in Prince George, about 500 miles north of Vancouver. The strip features a 700-foot concrete launch pad.
Northern Lights Raceway: Farther north in Fort St. John is this IHRA quarter-mile strip, which opened in 1998. It runs a handful of events every summer, including Jr. Dragsters.
Port McNeill Airport: Located on Canada’s west coast, the airport will host Rumble on the Runway twice this summer. It’s old-school drag racing, and it’s the product of the men and woman of the North Island Timing Association.
Thunder Mountain Raceway: Located just 80 miles from the border with Washington State, this quarter-mile strip in Kelowna, hosts a number of events from June to September. It’s also home to the Kelowna Street Outlaws.
MARYLAND
| Cecil County Dragway | Rising Sun Md. (quarter-mile) 410-287-5486http://www.cecilcountydragway.com/ |
| Mason-Dixon Dragway | Boonsboro Md. (quarter-mile) 301-791-5193http://www.masondixondragway.com/ |
NEW BRUNSWICK
| Miramichi Dragway Park | Miramichi N.B. (quarter-mile) 506-624-7989http://www.miramichidragwaypark.com/ |
NEW HAMPSHIRE
| New England Dragway | Epping N.H. (quarter-mile) 603-679-8001http://www.newenglanddragway.com/ |
NEW JERSEY
| Atco Dragway | Atco N.J. 856-768-2167http://atcodragway.rocks/ |
| Island Dragway | Great Meadows NJ. (quarter-mile) 908-637-6060http://www.islanddragway.com/ |
NEW YORK
| Esta Safety Park | Cicero N.Y. (quarter-mile) 315-622-4348http://www.estadrags.com/ |
| Lebanon Valley Dragway | West Lebanon N.Y. (quarter-mile) 518-794-7130http://www.dragway.com/ |
| Spencer Speedway (INACTIVE) | Williamson N.Y. 315-589-3018http://www.spencerspeedway.org/ |
ONTARIO
| Toronto Motorsports Park | Cayuga Canada, Ont. (quarter-mile) 905-772-0303https://torontomotorsportspark.com/ |
PENNSYLAVNIA
| Maple Grove Raceway | Mohnton PA (quarter-mile) 610-856-9200http://www.maplegroveraceway.com/ |
| Numida Dragway | Numida PA (quarter-mile) 570-799-5090http://www.numidiadragway.com/ |
| South Mountain Raceway | Boiling Springs PA (eighth-mile) 717-323-0210http://southmountainraceway.com/ |
QUEBEC
| Luskville Dragway | Luskbille Quebec (quarter-mile) 613-715-1029http://www.luskvilledragway.com/ |
| Napierville Dragway | Napierville Quebec (quarter-mile) 450-245-7656http://www.napiervilledragway.com/ |
VIRGINIA
| Virginia Motorsports Park | Petersburg VA (quarter-mile) 804-862-3174http://www.virginiamotorsports.com/ |
ALABAMA
| Atmore Dragway | Atmore Ala. (eighth-mile) 251-368-8363http://atmoredragway.com/ |
| Capital City Motorsports Park | Montgomery Ala. (quarter-mile) 334-279-9356https://www.facebook.com/CapitalCityMotorsportsPark |
| Huntsville Dragway | Harvest Ala. (eighth-mile) 256-852-4505http://www.huntsvilledragway.us/ |
FLORIDA
| Bradenton Motorsports Park | Bradenton FL (quarter-mile) 941-748-1320http://www.bradentonmotorsports.com/ |
| Emerald Coast Dragway | Holt FL (eighth-mile) 407-568-5522http://raceecd.com/ |
| Gainesville Raceway | Gainesville FL (quarter-mile) 352-377-0046http://www.gainesvilleraceway.com/ |
| Orlando Speed World Dragway | Orlando FL (quarter-mile) 407-568-5522http://www.raceosw.com/ Member Track Spotlight Video |
| Sebring International Raceway | Sebring FL (eighth-mile) 863-655-1442http://www.sebringraceway.com/ |
GEORGIA
| Atlanta Dragway | Commerce GA (quarter-mile) 706-335-2301http://www.atlantadragway.com/ |
| Silver Dollar Raceway | Reynolds GA (quarter-mile) 478-847-4414http://silverdollarraceway.com/index.html Member Track Spotlight Video |
| South Georgia Motorsports Park | Cecil GA (quarter-mile) 229-896-7000http://www.goracesgmp.com/ |
| U.S. 19 Dragway | Albany GA (eighth-mile) 229-431-0077http://www.us19-dragway.com/ |
NORTH CAROLINA
!--dropped santion in 2021 -->
| Galot Motorsports Park | Benson NC (eighth-mile) 919-894-1662http://www.galotmotorsportspark.com/ |
| Mooresville Dragway | Mooresville NC (eighth-mile) 704-663-4685http://www.mooresvilledragway.net/ |
| Rockingham Dragway | Rockingham NC (quarter-mile) 910-582-3400http://www.rockinghamdragway.com/ |
| ZMax Dragway | Concord NC (quarter-mile) 704-455-3205http://www.charlottemotorspeedway.com/ |
PUERTO RICO
| Puerto Rico International Speedway | Salinas Puerto Rico (quarter-mile) 787-747-0319http://www.salinasspeedwaypr.com/ |
SOUTH CAROLINA
| Carolina Dragway | Aikens SC 844-471-7223http://www.houseofhook.com/ |
TENNESSEE
| Bristol Dragway | Bristol TN (quarter-mile) 423-764-3724http://www.bristolmotorspeedway.com/ |
ILLINOIS
| Byron Dragway | Byron IL (quarter-mile) 815-234-8405http://www.byrondragway.com/ |
| Coles County Dragway USA, LLC | Charleston IL (eighth-mile) 217-345-7777http://www.colescountydragwayusa.com/ |
| Route 66 Raceway | Joliet IL (quarter-mile) 815-722-5500http://www.route66raceway.com/ |
| World Wide Technology Raceway | Madison IL (quarter-mile) 618-215-8888https://www.wwtraceway.com// |
INDIANA
| Lucas Oil Raceway | Indianapolis IN (quarter-mile) 317-969-8600http://www.lucasoilraceway.com/ |
| Wabash Valley Dragway | Terre Haute IN (eighth-mile) 833-517-1717http://www.wabashvalleydragway.com/ |
| Wagler Motorsports Park | Lyons IN 812-636-0391http://waglermotorsportspark.com/ |
KENTUCKY
| Beech Bend Raceway Park | Bowling Green KY (quarter-mile) 270-781-7634http://www.beechbend.com/ |
| Kentucky Dragway | Clay City KY (eighth-mile) 606-663-2344http://kentuckydragway.com/ |
| Ohio Valley Raceway | West Point Ky. (eighth-mile) 502-922-4152http://www.ohiovalleydragway.com/ |
MICHIGAN
| Milan Dragway | Milan Mich. (quarter-mile) 734-439-7368http://milandragway.com/ |
OHIO
| Edgewater Sports Park | Cleves Ohio (quarter-mile) 513-353-4666http://www.edgewaterrace.com/ |
| Kil-Kare Raceway | Xenia Ohio (quarter-mile) 937-429-2961http://www.kilkare.com/ Member Track Spotlight Video |
| National Trail Raceway | Hebron Ohio (quarter-mile) 740-928-5706http://www.nationaltrailraceway.com/ |
| Pacemakers Dragway Park | Mount Vernon Ohio (eighth-mile) 740-358-0001http://www.pacemakersdragwaypark.com/ |
| Summit Motorsports Park | Norwalk Ohio (quarter-mile) 419-668-5555http://www.summitmotorsportspark.com/ |
LOUISIANA
| No Problem Raceway Park | Belle Rose La. (quarter-mile) 985-369-3692http://www.noproblemraceway.com/ |
NEW MEXICO
| Roswell Dragway | Roswell N.M. (eighth-mile) 575-840-8959https://www.facebook.com/RaceRoswellNM |
OKLAHOMA
| Ardmore Dragway | Ardmore Okla (eighth-mile) 580-653-2711http://www.ardmoreraceway.com/ Member Track Spotlight Video |
| Osage Casino Tulsa Raceway Park | Tulsa Okla. (quarter-mile) 918-437-7223http://www.tulsaracewaypark.com/ |
| Thunder Valley Raceway Park | Lexington Okla. (quarter-mile) 405-872-3429http://www.okthunder.com/ |
TEXAS
| Big Country Race Way | Abilene Texas (eighth-mile) 325-721-2021http://www.bigcountryraceway.com/ |
| Houston Motorsports Park | Houston Texas (eighth-mile) 281-458-1972http://www.houstonmotorsportspark.com/ |
| Houston Raceway Park Powered by Pennzoil | Baytown Texas (quarter-mile) 281-383-7223http://www.houstonraceway.com/ |
| Paris Drag Strip | Paris Texas (eighth-mile) 903-982-7223https://www.theparisdragstrip.com/ Member Track Spotlight Video |
| Texas Motorplex | Ennis Texas (quarter-mile) 972-878-2641http://texasmotorplex.com/ |
ALASKA
| Alaska Raceway Park | Palmer Alaska (quarter-mile) 907-746-7223http://www.raceak.com/ |
ALBERTA
| Castrol Raceway | Edmonton Int't Airport Alta. (quarter-mile) 780-461-5801http://www.castrolraceway.com/ |
| M.H.D.R.A. Raceway | Medicine Hat Alta. (quarter-mile) 403-548-7061http://www.mhdra.com/ |
BRITISH COLUMBIA
| Mission Raceway | Mission B.C. (quarter-mile) 604-826-6315http://missionraceway.com/ |
IDAHO
| Firebird Raceway | Eagle Idaho (quarter-mile) 208-938-8986https://firebirdonline.com/ |
MONTANA
| Lewistown Raceway | Lewistown Mont. (quarter-mile) 406-350-0733http://www.lewistowndragracing.com/ |
| Lost Creek Raceway | Anaconda Mont. (eighth-mile) 406-491-0403http://www.lostcreek-raceway.com/ |
| Yellowstone Drag Strip | Acton Mont. (quarter-mile) 406-669-3300http://www.yellowstonedragstrip.com/ |
OREGON
| Coos Bay Speedway | Coos Bay Ore. (eighth-mile) 541-531-8665http://www.coosbayspeedway.us/ |
| Madras Dragstrip | Madras Ore. (eighth-mile) 541-815-2107http://www.madrasdragstrip.com/ |
| Medford Dragstrip | White City Ore. (quarter-mile) 541-290-3724http://www.medforddragstrip.com/ |
| Portland International Raceway | Portland Ore. (quarter-mile) 503-823-7223http://portlandraceway.com/ |
| Woodburn Dragstrip | Woodburn Ore. (quarter-mile) 503-982-4461http://www.woodburndragstrip.com/ |
WASHINGTON
| Bremerton Raceway | Bremerton Wash. (quarter-mile) 360-674-2280http://www.bremertonraceway.com/ |
| Pacific Raceways | Kent Wash. (quarter-mile) 253-639-5927http://pacificraceways.com/ |
| Renegade Raceway | Yakima Wash. (quarter-mile) 509-877-4621http://www.renegaderaceway.com/ |
| Walla Walla Drag Strip | Walla Walla Wash. (eighth-mile) 509-301-9243http://www.wwdragstrip.com/ |
ALASKA
| Alaska Raceway Park | Palmer Alaska (quarter-mile) 907-746-7223http://www.raceak.com/ |
ALBERTA
| Castrol Raceway | Edmonton Int't Airport Alta. (quarter-mile) 780-461-5801http://www.castrolraceway.com/ |
| M.H.D.R.A. Raceway | Medicine Hat Alta. (quarter-mile) 403-548-7061http://www.mhdra.com/ |
BRITISH COLUMBIA
| Mission Raceway | Mission B.C. (quarter-mile) 604-826-6315http://missionraceway.com/ |
IDAHO
| Firebird Raceway | Eagle Idaho (quarter-mile) 208-938-8986https://firebirdonline.com/ |
MONTANA
| Lewistown Raceway | Lewistown Mont. (quarter-mile) 406-350-0733http://www.lewistowndragracing.com/ |
| Lost Creek Raceway | Anaconda Mont. (eighth-mile) 406-491-0403http://www.lostcreek-raceway.com/ |
| Yellowstone Drag Strip | Acton Mont. (quarter-mile) 406-669-3300http://www.yellowstonedragstrip.com/ |
OREGON
| Coos Bay Speedway | Coos Bay Ore. (eighth-mile) 541-531-8665http://www.coosbayspeedway.us/ |
| Madras Dragstrip | Madras Ore. (eighth-mile) 541-815-2107http://www.madrasdragstrip.com/ |
| Medford Dragstrip | White City Ore. (quarter-mile) 541-290-3724http://www.medforddragstrip.com/ |
| Portland International Raceway | Portland Ore. (quarter-mile) 503-823-7223http://portlandraceway.com/ |
| Woodburn Dragstrip | Woodburn Ore. (quarter-mile) 503-982-4461http://www.woodburndragstrip.com/ |
WASHINGTON
| Bremerton Raceway | Bremerton Wash. (quarter-mile) 360-674-2280http://www.bremertonraceway.com/ |
| Pacific Raceways | Kent Wash. (quarter-mile) 253-639-5927http://pacificraceways.com/ |
| Renegade Raceway | Yakima Wash. (quarter-mile) 509-877-4621http://www.renegaderaceway.com/ |
| Walla Walla Drag Strip | Walla Walla Wash. (eighth-mile) 509-301-9243http://www.wwdragstrip.com/ |
ARIZONA
| Tucson Dragway | Tucson Ariz. (quarter-mile) 520-762-9700http://www.tucsondragway.com/ |
| Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park | Chandler Ariz. (quarter-mile) 520-796-5601http://www.racewildhorse.net/ |
CALIFORNIA
| Auto Club Dragway at Auto Club Speedway | Fontana Calif. (quarter-mile) 909-429-5060http://www.autoclubdragway.com/ |
| Auto Club Raceway at Pomona | Pomona Calif. (quarter-mile) 909-593-7010 |
| Barona 1/8-Mile Drag Strip | Lakeside Calif. (eighth-mile) 619-607-5449http://www.baronadrags.com/ |
| Famoso Dragstrip | McFarland Calif. (quarter-mile) 844-346-4876http://www.famosoraceway.com/ |
| Irwindale Dragstrip | Irwindale Calif. (eighth-mile) 626-358-1100www.irwindalespeedway.com |
| Redding Drag Strip | Redding Calif. (quarter-mile) 530-215-3003http://www.reddingdragstrip.info/ |
| Sacramento Raceway | Sacramento Calif. (quarter-mile) 916-363-2653http://www.sacramentoraceway.com/ |
| Samoa Dragstrip | Samoa Calif. (quarter-mile) 707-845-5755http://www.samoadragstrip.com/ |
| Sonoma Raceway | Sonoma Calif. (quarter-mile) 800-870-7223http://www.sonomaraceway.com/ |
COLORADO
| Western Colorado Dragway | Grand Junction Colo. (quarter-mile) 970-243-9022http://wcdra.com/ |
HAWAII
| Kauai Raceway Park | Mana Hawaii (quarter-mile) 808-823-6749http://dragrace-kauai.com/ |
| Maui Raceway Park | Kahului Hawaii (quarter-mile) 808-281-1273www.mrp.org/ |
NEVADA
| The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway | Las Vegas Nev. (quarter-mile) 702-632-8213www.lvms.com |
| Top Gun Dragstrip | Fallon Nev. (quarter-mile) 775-867-3019www.topgunraceway.com/ |
NEW MEXICO
| Albuquerque Dragway | Albuquerque N.M. (quarter-mile) 888-925-2227http://www.abqdragway.com/ |
The Ducati Multistrada V4 S Has Just Won A ‘Best Motorcycle Of 2021’ Award.
The Ducati Multistrada V4 S began its debut into the motorcycle world with a bang – that bang being the incorporation of an all-new 170 HP Granturismo V4 engine (found in the Panigale V4 superbike), with a delectable advanced aid system managing both Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Blind Spot Detection (BSD).
COLORADO
| Bandimere Speedway | Morrison Colo. (quarter-mile) 303-697-6001http://www.bandimere.com/ |
| Julesburg Dragstrip | Julesburg Colo. (quarter-mile) 307-631-4490http://www.julesburgdragracing.com/ |
| Pueblo Motorsports Park | Pueblo Colo. (quarter-mile) 719-641-7736https://www.facebook.com/pueblomotorsportsparkpmp |
IOWA
| Cedar Falls Motorsports Park | Cedar Falls Iowa (quarter-mile) 319-987-2537http://www.racecfmp.com/ |
| Tri-State Raceway | Earlville Iowa (quarter-mile) 563-923-3724http://www.tristateraceway.com/ |
KANSAS
| Heartland Motorsports Park | Topeka Kan. (quarter-mile) 785-861-7899http://heartlandmotorsports.us/ |
| Kansas International Dragway | Maize Kan. 316-833-4556http://www.kansasdragway.com/ |
| Mid America Dragway | Arkansas City Kan. (quarter-mile) 316-262-7866http://www.midamericadragway.com/ |
| SRCA Dragstrip | Great Bend Kan. (quarter-mile) 620-792-5079http://www.srcadragstrip.com/ |
MINNESOTA
| Brainerd International Raceway | Brainerd Minn. (quarter-mile) 218-824-7223http://www.brainerdraceway.com/ |
| Grove Creek Raceway | Grove City Minn. (eighth-mile) 320-857-2152http://www.grovecreek.com/ |
| Interstate Raceway | Glyndon Minn. (quarter-mile) 218-236-9461http://www.interstateraceway.com/ Member Track Spotlight Video |
NEBRASKA
| Kearney Raceway Park | Kearney Neb. (quarter-mile) 308-750-2049http://www.krpi.com/ |
SOUTH DAKOTA
| Oahe Speedway | Pierre S.D. (quarter-mile) 605-223-9885http://www.oahespeedway.com/ |
| Sturgis Dragway | Sturgis S.D. (eighth-mile) 605-431-0841http://www.sturgisdrags.com/ |
WISCONSIN
| Rock Falls Raceway | Eau Claire Wis. (quarter-mile) 715-875-4233http://www.rockfallsraceway.com/ |
COLORADO
| Bandimere Speedway | Morrison Colo. (quarter-mile) 303-697-6001http://www.bandimere.com/ |
| Julesburg Dragstrip | Julesburg Colo. (quarter-mile) 307-631-4490http://www.julesburgdragracing.com/ |
| Pueblo Motorsports Park | Pueblo Colo. (quarter-mile) 719-641-7736https://www.facebook.com/pueblomotorsportsparkpmp |
IOWA
| Cedar Falls Motorsports Park | Cedar Falls Iowa (quarter-mile) 319-987-2537http://www.racecfmp.com/ |
| Tri-State Raceway | Earlville Iowa (quarter-mile) 563-923-3724http://www.tristateraceway.com/ |
KANSAS
| Heartland Motorsports Park | Topeka Kan. (quarter-mile) 785-861-7899http://heartlandmotorsports.us/ |
| Kansas International Dragway | Maize Kan. 316-833-4556http://www.kansasdragway.com/ |
| Mid America Dragway | Arkansas City Kan. (quarter-mile) 316-262-7866http://www.midamericadragway.com/ |
| SRCA Dragstrip | Great Bend Kan. (quarter-mile) 620-792-5079http://www.srcadragstrip.com/ |
MINNESOTA
| Brainerd International Raceway | Brainerd Minn. (quarter-mile) 218-824-7223http://www.brainerdraceway.com/ |
| Grove Creek Raceway | Grove City Minn. (eighth-mile) 320-857-2152http://www.grovecreek.com/ |
| Interstate Raceway | Glyndon Minn. (quarter-mile) 218-236-9461http://www.interstateraceway.com/ Member Track Spotlight Video |
NEBRASKA
| Kearney Raceway Park | Kearney Neb. (quarter-mile) 308-750-2049http://www.krpi.com/ |
SOUTH DAKOTA
| Oahe Speedway | Pierre S.D. (quarter-mile) 605-223-9885http://www.oahespeedway.com/ |
| Sturgis Dragway | Sturgis S.D. (eighth-mile) 605-431-0841http://www.sturgisdrags.com/ |
WISCONSIN
| Rock Falls Raceway | Eau Claire Wis. (quarter-mile) 715-875-4233http://www.rockfallsraceway.com/ |
BAHRAIN
| Bahrain International Circuit | Gate 255, Gulf of Bahrain Avenue, Umm Jidar 1062 Sakhir +973-1745-0000 https://www.bahraingp.com/ |
KUWAIT
| Kuwait Motor Town Drag Strip | 40 King Fahad Bin Abdul Aziz Rd., Ali Sabah Al Salem, Kuwait +965-2206-4777 https://kmt.kw/racetrack/drag-strip/ |
UAE
| Yas Drag Racing Centre | Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates +971-2659-9393 https://www.yasmarinacircuit.com/en/products/track-hires/yas-drag-racing-centre/ |
Triumph have gone back to the drawing board and produced the most powerful and fastest accelerating Speed Triple so far. Built to take on the latest crop of European super nakeds, the Speed Triple has been bored out and slimmed down in a bid for litre-plus glory.
Change is the story of the new Speed Triple but nowhere is that more pronounced than with the engine. Triumph have completely redesigned the motor so not one single part carries over from the previous generation.
The bore has been widened considerably (up to 90mm from 79mm) while the stroke has been shortened (60.8mm down from 71.4mm), which together with an overall loss in rotating mass and improvements in gas flow taken from their Moto2 project learnings, has enabled them to rev the engine higher than before.
2021 Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS corner
The result is a 29.5bhp boost at the top end, so peak power is now 177.5bhp at 10,750rpm. Peak torque is also up, now 92lb.ft at 9000rpm, helping to deliver a fatter midrange.
Paired with this new motor is a brand new chassis, which Triumph say makes it the best handling Speed Triple so far – although they would, wouldn’t they? The headline figure is that the bike is 10kg lighter than the previous model, with the frame itself 17% lighter than the old one.
This, along with the boost in power, has contributed to a 26% increase in the power-to-weight ratio. The wheelbase remains the same, although with the new stacked gearbox, Triumph have elongated the swingarm, which helps improve the handling.
10 new motorcycles to get excited about in 2021
- Aprilia Tuono 660.
- Ducati Multistrada V4. ..
- Yamaha YZ250F. motocross
- Kawasaki ZX-10R.
- Triumph Trident 660. ...
- Harley-Davidson Pan America. ...
- Yamaha Tenere 700. ..
- Honda NC750X.
10 Best Harley Davidson Bikes Ever Made, Ranked
- 8 1990 FLSTF Fat Boy.
- 7 2009 FXSTB Night Train.
- 6 2009 FLHT Electra Glide Standard.
- 5 2007 XL1200N Sportster Nightster.
- 4 2002 VRSCA V-Rod.
- 3 2006 VRSCSE2.
- 2 2012 FLHR Road King.
- 1 2008 FXDWG Dyna Wide Glide.
Last Updated : 02 July 2012
This page is updates as required.
Note : The content here attempts to be as accurate as possible.
This list covers the original Hayabusa 1999-2007
Click here if you are looking for the 2008 onwards FAQ:
FAQ for 2008 and onwards FAQ
Which Year Model Hayabusa should I get ?
Please see This page for my opinion.
Other bits of technical information about the Hayabusa and questions asked about the bike over the years.
Please see This page for more info like what does the symbol (Kanji) mean.
Known differences between 1999 - 2000 - 2001 - 2002 - 2003 - 2004 - 2005 - 2006 - 2007 models. Models years are often referred to from 2001 onwards for what ever reason by k1 = 2001, k2 2002, and so forth.
Known differences (summary) :
Basically there aren't any that you can actually see apart from colour for 1999 vs the 2000 models.
The different colours can be seen on the model history page.
Cam tensioner issues on 1999 and 2000 models only.
The rear sub-frame is also different either in welding or be it a metal version applicable worldwide.
The late 2000 and 2001 models are also top speed restricted by the engine management system, not many will actually find out of course its - 290kph .
Performance is otherwise unchanged.
The Speedo meter on 2001 models only go to 185mph.
Australian Speedo meter reads a top of 280kph with the rest of the lines unnumbered.
The orange reflector on the front forks and else where indicate that it is the US model. Road safety just like the plate on the front lobby group (ha ha).
Top Speed of 2001 model onwards is 290kph or 180mph.
2001 idle adjuster is now under the tank.
2001 'vent' on tail fairing on the right is flat unlike the left which is curved in.
2001 models appear to have a oil capacity of 3100ml.
2001 models have a steel sub-frame coloured black in the US.
2001 Canadian models only have 20 litre tanks.
2001 models have a Suzuki sticker over the rear tail lights.
2002 Models have polished metal joining the mufflers as opposed to the matt black 99-01 models.
2002 also have radiators in an unpainted metal?
2002 in some countries have a Oxygen sensor integrated into the exhaust pipes.
2002 have inset front wheel hubs.
2003 New ECU or ECM 16 - 32 bit processing power (late 2002 intro) and cannot be over come by the TRE ?
2003 have a new lighter generator - Alternator ?
2003 have gold/bronze coloured front forks and brake callipers.
2003 have Titanium Nitride coated inner forks.
Polished stainless steel exhaust pipe for improved appearance.
bolt on, stainless-steel tie-down hooks (previously welded to sub-frame) ?
2004 Red limited editions have stylised single 'S' on the fuel tank.
2004 Red limited editions have unpainted rim edges on the wheels.
2004 Limited editions have black frames.
2004 have unpainted radiators.
2005 Suzuki logo on tank changed to just a stylised S.
2005 All indicators now have clear lens.
2006 Only colour changes.
2007 Only colour changes.
Known differences between countries :
As expected there are differences between Hayabusa's produced for different countries. This section will attempt to unravel the various differences between models in each country. (It's not easy...)
Often asked questions :
Other often asked questions :
The Seat or Hump ? :
All Hayabusa's purchased new from a dealer comes with the 'hump', rear seat pad and grab rail. The hump and seat can be swapped over with the key however the grab rail is secured with screws.
You cannot have the 'hump' and grab rail attached at the same time without modification. Naturally, the rear seat and the grab rail fits perfectly !
What is a Motorcycle Steering Damper :
All Hayabusa's have them fitted as standard. It's hidden at the top of the forks behind the instrument panel. What is it ? (Simply) Well its like a shock absorber for the bars but it is to prevent side to side bar wobbles or tank slappers in most conditions when the front goes light. Eg. Wheelies or monos. It too needs maintenance usually requiring an oil change every so often.
Model identification :
It is difficult to identify a particular model's specification until you have determined the following :
Actual Build Date or Month.
Compliance Date or when it becomes a registrable model in your country.
Country of first delivery.
Colour scheme.
It is not unique to the US where the following calendar year specification is released in the former.
That is a '03 spec bike released in late '02.
It is also not uncommon for manufacturers to not release all colour schemes in one country.
There appears to be a specific times when all Busa's are made.
Hayabusa Workshop Manual or Hayabusa repair manual or service manual :
I have recently noticed that there are a few places offering to sell 'workshop' manuals. To make life easier checkout my Amazon.com sponsored online store :
Hayabusa and motorcycle parts store. So much easier buying stuff now.
Instruments :
The Hayabusa has conventional dials for the Speedo, Rev meter, Fuel and Engine Temperature.
Warning lights are circular and not part of the Speedo or Rev counter etc..
However it has 2 digital readouts.
One is for odometers, fuel consumption and trip meters.
The second is for the clock.
ALL dials do the automatic spinning routine when starting - its pretty cool !
Choke :
OK everyone I have received a mail explaining the various technical aspects of the mechanics of the 'choke' and it clear that it is a fast idle lever, no enrichment at all. Thanks Steve 'Dangermouse'
The air-vents :
The vents beside the front headlamps are not for cooling purposes. The have apparently been aerodynamically design to create a super-charger effect. (This is a common design feature in modern bikes.) Hence the more air pressure, it is presumed that the engine will make more power. Just like regular internal combustion engines the higher the altitude above sea level you are will also mean that the bike will produce less power.
Which year model to get :
Please don't ask me whether you should get the current model or wait for the next years model etc... I won't answer that question because its got nothing to do with me. You see - I probably don't know you at all and hence have no idea what your personality, priorities in life, likes or dislikes, allergies, favourite pet, country your in, condition of the bike or dealer and so forth. Besides we aren't even dating or even going steady for that matter...not that I'm complaining or should I be ?? hang on a minute - we may not even be physically compatible...See below in 'General characteristics' for the actual answer.
Which is faster ? and Is the Hayabusa the fastest production motorcycle in the world? :
The answer is YES in particular reference to the 1999 and 2000 models. After those year manufacturers agreed to artificially limit the top speed for all motorcycles to about 290kph.
That means that no-one can now claim to be the next fastest production motorcycle in the world because the Hayabusa will retain that title until the limit agreement has been lifted - if ever.
So the ZX14 is not the fastest nor is the GSXR1000 etc... there is effectively no FASTER production motorcycle in the world any more. Even if they can reach Hayabusa speeds you would need to modify them hence no longer production. What is the fastest non-production motorcycle ? Who knows...
Another common question I get asked, clearly by inexperienced or new riders is which is faster eg. GSXR1000 or Hayabusa, Ducati or Hayabusa etc... Well the answer is obvious isn't it.
Now you say which is faster round the track. Well again this sort of thing is asked by new or inexperienced riders. And the answer is it depends to who's riding it. A average rider will never do a better lap time on the Hayabusa than the same rider on a proper sports bike. Why? because the Hayabusa is a more difficult bike to ride. Its main mission was never to go round a track the fastest - its mission was top speed. It just happens that it handles very nicely too. It eats tracks too but only if you can actually ride properly.
Run in or break in procedure for the engine :
This is a simple one - follow the instruction manual - since it only needs to be run in once.
Long term storage for a motorcycle :
Why store a motorcycle away? Well a lot of people live in countries where they need to store their motorcycle for extended period. Namely these who live in snow infected areas! Don't forget to check the users manual too!
So here's some stuff I gathered over the years.
- Complete clean including chain.
- Use a race stand for front and rear tyres.
- Disconnect the battery.
- Fill it up with fuel but not full.
- A dust cloth or cover over the screen and headlights.
- A motorcycle cover on top of that.
Special Editions - Hayabusa Based :
To date there has been only one Official Suzuki endorsed special edition.
Special Edition - meaning mechanically enhanced, not just cosmetic.
This is of course the Yoshimura enhanced Hayabusa known as the X1.
Only 100 examples of the bike are known to exist.
It contains all the Yoshi enhancements available for the bike.
It was released in 1999.
There are other 'Special Editions'. Often these have been made by other Performance parts manufacturers or racing outfits e.g TTS. I'm sure they have a ton of useful mods too. However none to date are Suzuki endorsed.
Limited Edition Hayabusa:
There have been many 'Limited editions' over the years. The only difference from the normal versions are the colour schemes or lack off usually.
Derestricted the 2001 models onwards (TRE stuff) :
Information on the derestricting various models to follow.
Go to Specs and Performance Page
Summary :
Since many people have asked here is a summary of all the mechanical type problems you may encounter whilst owning the Hayabusa. In general there isn't much that seem to be common to every bike or particularly fatal.
Only 1999 and 2000 Hayabusa's are effected by the Cam Chain Tensioner Issue .
If you're buying these year models used make sure this upgrade has been performed.
There are no other major reliability concerns that affect all bikes.
Others are common with any type of bike not just the Hayabusa.
I'm sure you'll come to the same conclusion that the Hayabusa is very reliable.
General Ownership things to look out for :
'99 - '00 : Ensure the recall work on the Cam Chain and Fuel pump has been done.
2000 models : Stretched chain and cam chain (1st recall for 2000 models).
Difficulty with 5-6th gear change until bike is complete run in (1st - 2nd service) .
Clutch reservoir goes cloudy on some bikes.
Sub-frame problems if the Busa has been carrying lot of luggage/or has after market exhausts
Max weight for '99 and most '00 models is 195kgs.
*Ensure service bulletins on the return fuel lines and filters. 99/00
*Length of fuel return line to be shorten if kinking under the tank. 99/00
*More Electrical wiring insulation if rubbing against other parts. 99/00
*Thnks to M Dresser for more info.
General characteristics all year models :
Rattle of the steering damper on rough road - reduced by refilling the damper oil
Cost of tyres has been taken into account
Vibration on the left side of the screen on some but easily fixed.
Uneven rear hump - it's not very noticeable
Heaps of attention from car drivers and police
Some owners report high rear brake wear, due to big feet !
Be sure to fully extended the side stand or you know what !
Some engine vibes noticeable from approx 4500rpm - only because up to then the engine is really smooth.
Cost of tyres has been taken into account.
Some have a white residue at the bottom of water reservoir - unknown - but doesn't effect anything.
Some develop a loud clunk noise on take off - it is not serious - it is usually the effect of a stretched chain.
Remember to adjust your chain first before asking for another opinion - read expensive.
(You should be doing this anyway as part of your own regular maintenance ie lubing the chain.)
And yes any bike will do this if not maintained.
Sub-frame Issue 1999-2000 models
This has always been a tricky issue.
Fact : The sub frame for 1999-2000 at the welds can crack. As experienced by a number of current and past owners.
Fact : The sub frame is made of high strength alloy but the welds are not.
Fact : In standard trim with exhausts in place and carrying under the maximum weight (Ie. No modifications to the bike what so ever) The bike is perfectly safe. Tested publicly in the UK by road safety authorities. (Links no longer work)
Fact : No-one knows exactly why it happens.
Fact : It is commonly blamed on the installation of after-market exhaust systems.
Fact : There was never an official recall.
Fact : Some owners where given new sub frames out of courtesy.
Fact : Silly really but Suzuki claimed that the Hayabusa was never designed to be a load bearing tourer. Says its the Ultimate Sports Bike...
Fact : 2001 models onwards have a heavier metal sub-frame. It's not any stronger but if you carry too much it will bend rather than break.
Fact : If you have one of those effected talk to the Suzuki Head office in your area or maybe the dealer.
Fact : If your bike has been modified you will be ignored.
Fact : I cannot do anything about it or reassure you or otherwise.
Fact : There are real examples of sub-frames breaking.
Can Chain tensioner 1999-2000 models
Fact : No major media publications on cam-chain tensioner breaking.
Fact : I have received reports over the years of chain breaking on high milage engines.
Fact : I cannot confirm the specifics of each report.
Fact : Cam-chains last longer that Cam-belts.
Fact : Problem relates to the tensioner mechanism not the actual chain.
Best year models to get :
For the genuine unlimited fastest motorcycle in the world (in production) get the 1999 or 2000 year models.
For the most reliable get the 2003 (new ECU) onwards.
General characteristics - 2001 onwards :
There isn't really very much to report on these models, cause they've been refined over the previous years and it does look like all the issues with the original 99 and 00 have been addressed !
Sure I get the occasional message but these days it seems that only modified Hayabusa's encounter and mechanical problems.
All OK for : 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 2006 so far.
The things that happened to my Hayabusa back in 1999 :
Afflicted with cloudy clutch fluid, which was replaced under warranty.
Afflicted with contaminated fuel (from BP fuel) and kinked fuel hose.
My bike has suffered 2 flat tyres due to nails and a very large bolt.
The rear hump does not sit completely straight.
The front screen vibrated but has been fixed.
The only thing that I replaced apart from tyres was the chain - the usual 3 year replacement cycle.
The fuel injected Suzuki Hayabusa is a monster in stock form, but who leaves a 'busa stock? Big bore, long stroke, nitrous and turbos are now the norm for this motorcycle. One thing that is easily overlooked is the fuel system. We get too caught up in displacement and horsepower that we forget that fuel is required to make that power.
The Gen 1 Hayabusa (99-07) fuel system can only support 240hp normally asspirated and about 220 horsepower with nitrous or turbo charger. Larger injectors, billet fuel rail and a good fuel pump are required to make any more power than that.
The Gen 2 (08+) Hayabusa can only safely handle about 250hp before the stock fuel pump starts to loose the flow battle. Upgrading to a new pump will allow 300+ with stock injectors.
Nitrous oxide: how it works
We’re going to keep this simple, or things will get very complicated indeed.
An internal combustion engine relies on a supply of oxygen to burn the fuel that makes the pistons pump.
If you can increase the oxygen supply, you can burn more fuel, and therefore increase power and performance.
Tanks of pressurised liquid nitrous oxide are connected to the Airbox or TB spacers for injection by feed lines.
The nitrous (and fuel in wet systems) are fed to the intake manifold when the throttle is opened wide, turning into a gas because of the lack of pressure in the surrounding air.
This causes a large drop in intake charge temperature, resulting in a denser charge, further allowing more air/fuel mixture to enter the cylinder.
As the piston compresses, the intense heat breaks the oxygen atom attached to the N2O (nitrous oxide), which is then free to be used in combustion and mix with the extra fuel to generate more power.
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