The innovative FXX programme, based on the eponymous prototype car and launched by Ferrari in June 2005, is being extended to 2008/2009. The Ferrari FXX, which is the most advanced GT ever created at Maranello, has been updated with an evolution package aimed at further improving its handling and performance.
The package was developed as a result of Ferrari’s collaboration with its Client Test Drivers and with the invaluable support of Michael Schumacher. The FXXs equipped with this package will also sport a new livery in addition to new rear wing profiles.

The Ferrari FXX is not homologated for road use and there are no plans to compete with it either. In fact, the Ferrari FXX prototype is designed exclusively for track driving as part of a specific R&D programme agreed with a selected group of just over 20 clients involving 14 group test sessions and 14 private ones in the last two years. Thanks to readings taken over the 16,500 kilometres of tests carried out in 2006 and the 18,500 kilometres covered in 2007, the modifications made to the car have focused on honing its aerodynamics, running gear and electronics. Seven-times Formula 1 World Champion Michael Schumacher also joined the ranks of the client test drivers and gave the programme the benefit of his vast experience on several occasions.

Maranello’s engineers studied the wealth of information gained to develop a kit which will cut the FXX’s Fiorano lap time to under 1′16” (previously it was 1′18”). The Ferrari FXX’s 6262 cc V12 engine can now punch out a massive 860 hp at 9500 rpm. Gearshifting takes just 60 ms, a drop of 20 ms on the previous time, and the gear ratios have been adapted to make use of the extra 1000 rpm now delivered by the engine.

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The S 1000 RR Sport version will be factory fitted with Sports ABS, Dynamic Traction Control and Gearshift Assist. This offers customers a saving of £213 over the cost of a standard model with the three options purchased separately.

Although Motorrad has launched these two model specifications, a customer ordering an S 1000 RR will still have the facility to select any individual options they desire. Bespoke motorcycles will then be assembled on the production line to the customer’s own specification. This BMW option is unique to the supersport market sector.

S 1000 RR factory fitted options and prices:
Race ABS is £785
Race ABS + Dynamic Traction Control is £1,199*
Gear Shift Assist is £299*
Anti-theft Alarm is £172
BMW Motorrad Motorsport colour scheme is £390
*standard on S 1000 RR Sport

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The HM Plant Honda and Padgetts Honda teams had a weekend of mixed fortunes and changeable weather at the 2.692-mile Cheshire based circuit, though still adding to Honda (UK)’s podium tally for the 2009 season.


BRITISH SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP
Glen Richards Josh Brookes
Free Practice 1 (dry) 7th 1:38.837 24th 1:41.754
Free Practice 2 (dry) 6th 1:37.822 19th 1:39.062
Free Practice 3 4th 1:37.223 11th 1:38.259
Roll For Pole Q1 (all riders) 1:37.544 1:37.599
Roll For Pole Q2 (20 riders) 1:36.685 1:36.762
Roll for Pole Q3 (10 riders) 1:36.644 1:38.110
Qualifying 7th 1:36.644 10th 1:38.110
Warm Up 4th 1:48.927 23rd 1:53.732
Race 1 (18 laps) 6th 1:37.169 10th 1:37.598
Race 2 (18 laps) 5th 1:36.794 DNF(retired: misfire) 1:36.871

Josh Brookes had a steep learning curve for his debut in the British Superbike Championship, using Saturday’s free practice sessions to learn the fast and flowing track that features rapidly changing gradients, cambers and blind crests, as well as re-acquainting himself with his CBR1000RR Fireblade. The Aussie made strides forward with his bike set-up and lap times to achieve a top ten grid position and a 10th placed finish in race one, although retired in race two just three laps from the end due to a misfire whilst running in 6th position.


Team-mate Glen Richards also used the practice sessions to progress his chassis race set-up and took 5th and 6th places at the chequered flag in races one and two respectively.

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Chevrolet Europe has shown the first glimpse of the marque’s 2009 World Touring Car Championship contender. The all-new Chevrolet Cruze, which premiered at the Paris Motor Show, will continue Chevrolet’s presence in the WTCC, in which the marque so far has won twelve world championship races.

Testing of the new Chevrolet Cruze WTCC race car – which is the first to start Chevrolet’s new design language in Europe – has already started and is on schedule, and will continue throughout the remainder of the current season and the coming winter. Developed, built, run and driven by the same team and drivers, the Cruze will be all but guaranteed the same speed, reliability and success. The Chevrolet Cruze WTCC first competitive outing will be in Brazil at the opening round of the 2009 WTCC in Curitiba. In 2009, the WTCC will again visit twelve tracks, in South and Central-America, Africa, Europe and the Far-East.

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An updated sports-inspired design includes several all-new features: a rigid frame for sports-style riding increased storage capacity, and a new dashboard design.

Completed by Yamaha’s expertise in reliable and fuel efficient 4-stroke engine design, both models are perfect for savvy city riding.

NEW: Dynamic sports styling

A new design approach enhances the distinctive sports character of X-MAX. Completely redesigned bodywork offers a sharper, more dynamic presence. Recalling Yamaha’s groundbreaking TMAX scooter design, the one-piece construction of the front cowling, with a fixed instrument panel, brings a striking aesthetic to the new X-MAX.

NEW: High levels of rider comfort

Increased rider comfort comes in the shape of the new footboard position, for easier and more flexible riding on longer journeys. The single-piece cowling allows for a larger, improved dashboard design. Inspired by the look of luxury sports cars, the dash conveys a greater sense of sophistication. It comes fully equipped with red backlit analogue and digital instruments, which now include a large sports-style rev counter, so important information is available at a glance – day or night.

In poor riding conditions, a sporty windscreen and the wide all-new front cowling provide ample protection from the elements.

NEW: Increased storage capacity for two-up riding

Both the X-MAX 250 and X-MAX 125 offer easy ground access and are designed for comfortable two-up riding without compromising performance. The ample, re-designed double seat is extremely comfortable during long trips: it conceals more than enough storage space to accommodate two full-face helmets. Up front, the enlarged lockable glove compartment around the knee area keeps essential items secure and always close-to-hand.

NEW: A rigid frame for sports-style riding and adjustable rear suspension

The completely new rigid frame offers sports-style riding. Suspended on responsive twin rear shocks – with 4 adjustable positions - and long-travel telescopic forks, the new X-MAX eats up bumpy roads. Grippy, 15inch front and 14inch rear tyres stay firmly planted on the road. Twin-piston 267mm front and 240mm rear disc brakes provide accurate and reliable braking on busy city streets.

Pulling power: Yamaha engine technology

Delivering a perfect balance of weight and power, Yamaha’s 4-stroke engine offers the torque necessary to pull off from zero and leave the traffic behind. Liquid cooling maximises efficiency and durability by optimising operation. Fuel injection offers great running economy.

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Forget Ducatis, this is what Moto-Terminator should be. Flickr users, Quantumfinish has created a design concept motorcycle which centered around the Subaru WRX engine. To see more photos and details see the figure below,

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For the first time, Audi Sport will offer a racing sports car specifically developed for customer use in the form of the powerful 500 hp plus GT3 version of the Audi R8 which will be available from autumn 2009. The logistics and factory space required for the AUDI AG customer programme will be created over the next few months in Ingolstadt, Neckarsulm and Györ

“The Audi R8 is the first production Audi bearing the name and genes of a successful racing sportscar and is therefore an excellent base from which to build up our first big customer sport programme,” explains Head of Audi Motorsport Dr Wolfgang Ullrich. “Ever since the Audi R8 was unveiled we’ve been inundated with enquiries about a race version. With the Audi R8 we will offer customers a racing sportscar equipped with high-calibre technology and the typical Audi qualities, but which is nevertheless easy to handle.”

The Audi R8 conforms to the production-based GT3 regulations allowing the car to be fielded in numerous national and international race series.

Because the GT3 regulations prohibit the use of four-wheel drive the Audi R8 comes with the typical GT rear-wheel drive. The power is transmitted via a newly developed six-speed sequential sports gearbox. The suspension uses almost exclusively components from the production line. A comprehensive list of safety equipment guarantees the highest-level of passive safety. A modified front end and a large rear-wing generate the required downforce for the race track.

The Audi R8 GT3, which bears the project name “R16″ within Audi Sport, was developed under the direction of Audi Sport. Mid August, the first prototype successfully completed a roll-out in the hands of Audi factory driver Frank Biela.

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Honda (UK) Motorcycles is proud to announce the launch of all-new and eagerly awaited the V4-powered street-major sports machine - the VFR1200F.

VFR1200F has been developed in accordance with previous VFRs and continue the line of Honda's V4 heritage. However, the last incarnation of this go beyond the boundaries to deliver a machine with unparalleled combination of sport and touring capabilities, to meet customer needs and wants are understood from extensive research.

Revolutionary VFR1200F carved styling can not fail to impress from every angle, with a patented design plated gift creates the perfect match of form and function. Gift stylish ergonomic working in harmony with extra fuel tanks to provide support and weather protection for rider efficiency and pillion, while also allowing the optimal air flow and heat management.

Textured surfaces provide a motorcycle front light, open look while also creating a profile that slices through the wind with minimal resistance. A very defined X-shape features front engine. Concave surface of the eye and the air directly toward the windshield and the strong-beam single line into two streams of colored LED lights-looking lines that framed the sides of the lamp, increases the illusion of light and space.

Distinctive growl flexible and responsive V4 motor could also revive the emotions inspired by the previous icon VFRs, but the unique 'heart' engine feel and unparalleled level of management of a separate set of the new VFR, not only from its predecessors - but also of every bicycle when is available.


There are several challenges involved in adjusting the power of strong V4 for use in all machines that can be used for weekend pleasure, commuting and long distance touring. Key elements of the force response characteristics VFR1200F unparalleled strength and torque delivery.

In pursuit of high levels of control and feedback for the driver, who adopted the race-track VFR1200F raised the latest technology, but adapt and evolve to create a machine that can be many things to many motorists. Some of these technical solutions have not been seen in the road-going machine before.

At the heart of the brand VFR1200F is UNICAM new V4 engine 1237cc. Performance delivered in the most useful and enjoyable, and for responsive yet comfortable power delivery. V4 configuration to emulate a typical briskness inline-4 engine performance, but presented with pure V4 beat and feel.

VFR1200F adopted UNICAM single overhead camshaft cylinder head design from world-class motocrossers CRF. This very compact solution optimizing mass centralization that contributes to the balanced machine feel and ease of control. To further this cause, the purpose behind the adjacent cylinder, while the broader front cylinder space. This layout allows for a slim, compact 'waist' which fits comfortably between the riders legs. A new phase-shift CrankShaft complete advantage of the layout and the cylinder operates with  28 ° throw, effectively reducing noise vibration and main drain eliminating the need for a balance shaft power.

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This is what is safe, environmentally friendly and very practical vehicle for single rail traffic the city could look like in the future. BMW Motorrad developing C1-E study as a contribution to European safety eSUM project. This study unit based on the concept of the BMW C1. This is marked by a very high level of active and passive safety and driven by an electric motor.


BMW C1-E provides protection for the rider model. This is ensured by the safety cell with a striking roll-over bars which includes dynamic drivers seat in combination with the impact energy absorbing elements at the end of the nose. Further special point is that the C1-E driver wearing a seat belt. In this study the security features will be highlighted by a red belt and belt buckles.

Visual concept of a vehicle brand distinctive sheer driving pleasure expressed and clearly distinguishes itself from typical scooter look. Lines dynamically stretched and horizontal flow to the visual center of gravity low. The gift to the windshield, luggage space behind the rider and the business side of the parking stand to ensure a high suitability for everyday high-rises in combination with wind and weather protection.

Electric motors used in this study was designed to use the city and is based on the components of the company Vectrix. Motor get power from lithium-ion batteries and thus have enough power to control most of the traffic in the city rose with ease. Alternatively, vehicles can also be equipped with efficient, low emission internal combustion engine.

Security features of the C1-E has been taken from the former BMW C1 and further improved. Avant-garde BMW two-wheeler is considered a milestone in safety on two wheels. This is the only single-track motor vehicles exempted from the obligation to wear a helmet in almost all European countries.

BMW Motorrad this study is to remain the only model of its kind. Series production is not currently planned. However, the findings from the project will find its way into other future developments in the field of single track vehicles.

eSUM stands Urban Motorcycles Safer Europe. This is a joint project between the city centers of European Motorcycles and motorcycle manufacturers. Cities currently involved in projects including Paris, Rome, Barcelona and London and manufacturers BMW and Piaggio.

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This Stunning F1 themed custom chopper is powered by a tunned fuel injected 4-cylinder R1 Yamaha motor putting out in excess of 170hp very conservative ! This amazing project started from scratch , blueprints , engineering , hundreds of hours and great amounts of $expense$ and at the end what EXOTIC CUSTOM CHOPPERS inc. had was a SUPER BIKE unlike anything in its class .

Just some of the advanced features & details are 300mm x 18 rear tire & 21" Front , custom top grade Leather handmade seating , One of a kind (2 actually) hand made composite body work and paint process with Ferrari materials & Racing team colors , resins , 300/600 original blends etc... , There are NO Decals ether , everything here is 1st class top-grade finishes , Midwest 12" over front end , 55-Degree Rake , Exile rear break / sprocket , Keyless go system to just list some of the specialized very advanced features of this Harley annihilator (no disrespect intended , just very different) This is not your grampa' s road machine or for the light and faint hearted. The shifting is down on the left foot pedal for example and the breaks are right foot dual wheel safety activated.

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New-generation YZF-R1: Highly purified excitement
The radical and innovative new 2009 model YZF-R1 represents the most significant development in engine and chassis technology ever seen in the 11-year history of this legendary motorcycle.

Since the original YZF-R1 was released into an awe-struck marketplace, Yamaha’s flagship 1,000cc model has established a reputation as being one of the most innovative and exciting motorcycles in the large-capacity supersport class. For 2009 that outstanding reputation is sure to be reinforced more than ever before!

Featuring an all-new 998cc engine whose design, feel and character has been influenced by our championship winning M1, the new high-tech R1 powerplant is closely linked to our MotoGP bike. Indeed, in its long and illustrious history, the R1 engine has never benefited from so much MotoGP developed technology as the 2009 model.

In addition, the completely redesigned aluminium Deltabox chassis and aggressive new styling, give the new-generation YZF-R1 a radical new look and bring innovative technology to the class. In the same way that the original YZF-R1 threw the rule book out of the window, this revolutionary new model sets a new benchmark for the super-competitive 1,000cc supersport category.

Crossplane crankshaft engine for purer torque output
Rather than look exclusively to additional electronic aids to further enhance the new YZF-R1’s performance and controllability, Yamaha’s engineers have opted for a mechanical solution.

The defining and most influential feature of the new YZF-R1 is the use of an innovative new 998cc engine which has been developed from our winning YZR-M1 MotoGP design. Undoubtedly the single most significant piece of technology to be seen on this compact new high-performance engine is its race-developed crossplane crankshaft, which delivers outstandingly pure torque characteristics and high levels of traction. Indeed, the new engine’s linear and controllable torque characteristics are the very essence of this radical new generation YZF-R1.

Uneven firing interval for new levels of feel and traction
The new engine’s uneven 270° - 180° - 90° - 180° firing interval creates a whole new feel to the inline 4-cylinder engine, giving the new YZF-R1 rider a more precise and immediate feeling of control over the torque output levels. In addition, the new engine’s linear torque delivery gives rise to a confidence-inspiring sensation that makes each throttle input, however subtle, feel as though it is transmitted directly to the rear tyre.

The result of this rider-responsive torque is an enormously capable 1,000cc supersport motorcycle that is designed to deliver previously unattainable levels of traction for unrivalled cornering performance.

To accentuate the performance gains of the new crossplane crankshaft engine, we have also developed a new short-wheelbase aluminium Deltabox chassis and optimized the front and rear suspension systems. And the radical and aggressive new styling emphasises the new YZF-R1’s concentration of mass and dense compactness.

Engine

Newly-designed inline 4-cylinder engine with crossplane crankshaft
This remarkable new 998cc liquid-cooled inline 4-cylinder 4-valve engine features bore x stroke dimensions of 78.0 mm x 52.2 mm, giving an extremely short stroke layout, together with the largest bore dimensions ever used on a Yamaha 1,000cc supersport engine. In association with the short stroke and big bore, a high compression ratio of 12.7:1 is featured, which contributes to the new engine’s impressive power output of 133.9 kW (182 PS) at 12,500 rpm, and a torque output of 115.5 Nm (11.8 kg-m) at 10,000 rpm with natural aspiration.

Engine Technical Highlights
• MotoGP-developed 998cc liquid-cooled inline 4-cylinder 4-valve DOHC
• 133.9 kW (182 PS) at 12,5000 rpm (in France: 78.1 kW (106 PS) at 10,000 rpm)
• 115.5 Nm (11.8 kg-m) at 10,000 rpm (in France: 90.3 Nm (9.2 kg-m) at 7,000 rpm)
• Short-stroke, big-bore design
• Bore x stroke 78.0 mm x 52.2 mm
• Crossplane crankshaft
• Uneven 270º - 180º - 90º - 180º firing interval
• Newly-developed forged aluminium pistons
• Closed-deck ceramic-composite plated cylinder
• Fracture split (FS) carburized con rods
• Optimised large-diameter crank journal and flywheel mass
• YCC-I (Yamaha Chip Controlled Intake)
• YCC-T (Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle)
• Fuel injection system with secondary injector
• D-mode Map
• Redesigned forced air intake
• Slipper clutch
• 4-2-1-2 exhaust and twin up-slanted mufflers

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The Lord of Yamaha Adventures

Leaping forward in an instant. Blazing into the distance with grace and strength. Mixing tough, reliable cutting-edge technology and functional beauty. Constructed to withstand every adventure, with a spirit as agile and pure as the wind.

Throughout the 80’s and 90’s, Yamaha Ténéré machines have worn their Paris-Dakar Rally heritage with pride. Styled in the rally image, they will lead you to new worlds and unknown adventures.


The Lord of Yamaha Adventures was unveiled at the latest Tokyo Motor Show and introduces new levels of Art of Engineering and style to tough, long distance adventure touring. Equipped with state-of-the-art technologies like traction control, ABS and a unified brake system (UBS), the new Super Ténéré is ready to take you beyond the boundaries of travel.

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