Showing posts with label Ducati. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ducati. Show all posts

Saturday, November 28, 2015

PCP Heroes Shootout, Versys 650 vs Scrambler vs MT-07 !

Reach into the pocket where you keep your spare change. Have a rummage – steady now – and see what you can muster. Let’s call it £3.50. What can you get with that? A fancy coffee? A lunchtime meal deal? Or a brand-new 2015 motorcycle like Versys 650, Scrambler or even MT-07 ?




Put that pittance aside each day and it’s £100 a month. For dozens of new bikes, that’s the monthly payment on a Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) finance deal. Now, we’re not daft enough to ignore the initial deposit, or the optional balloon payments after three years, and PCP isn’t right for everybody. But instead of traditional finance more and more riders are using PCP, borrowing just a fraction of a bike’s value, and making some great machines – like the adaptable Kawasaki Versys 650, striking Ducati Scrambler and last year’s Bike of the Year, the Yamaha MT-07 – surprisingly affordable. So then. Lukewarm bean water in a paper cup, or one of these in your garage?


Kawasaki Versys 650





With a Ducati Scrambler to one side and Yamaha’s MT-07 to the other, Kawasaki’s Versys 650 looks like it might be lacking something. The MT is immediately a riot to ride; the Scrambler’s appeal so obvious it barely needs the ignition key. But dig a little deeper and it’s clear the Versys doesn’t come up short at all.

Quite the contrary. After the other two bikes, the Versys feels massively more substantial. Its riding position is taller, grander, and far more welcoming. It’s the only one that makes a 6ft rider feel well accommodated. The seat, for example, is the broadest and plushest. And its height advantage – two inches above the Scrambler’s saddle – also adds welcome legroom between bum and footpegs.

Bars are wide, like the Ducati’s, but the rest of the Versys does so much more to protect the rider. The tank comes up higher and flares out giving knees somewhere to shelter. And when the adjustable screen is wound up to full height, it deflects wind so effectively you can even wave your hand in front of your visor and find nothing but a pocket of still air.

All of this makes Kawasaki’s Versys far less tiring to ride than the other two bikes. Taking advantage of that trait is a petrol tank that’s 50% bigger than the others. The 21-litre capacity means 200 miles between fill-ups is virtually guaranteed. Other improvements for 2015 make it a solid touring choice too. The engine is now rubber mounted at both the front and rear sides, cutting down how much tingly vibration from the 180° parallel twin reaches the rider.

The list of tricks in the Versys’s back pocket keeps coming. It’s the only bike here with a reasonable amount of room for a pillion, and the only one with a remote preload adjuster on the shock to let you tailor it for two. Near-invisible slots on the grabrails are ready to take a pair of solid plastic panniers – and if that’s not enough storage, a top box is an option too. It’s almost as if this bike has been built to be ridden places. Fancy that.




In fact, if that sounds good, then there’s even a Grand Tourer version. This adds the full three-piece luggage set, handguards, spotlights, a gear indicator and a 12V socket. It brings the price up to £8135, but that’s still only a few quid more than the Scrambler Urban Enduro – and the Versys packs a far more useful-looking list of bolt-on bits. But don’t let all this practical praise fool you into thinking the Versys is a cut-price straight-line tourer or bland, worthy commuter. The Versys has – no, really – a properly entertaining side. It might be carrying the most timber of this trio, but at 216kg it’s still relatively light. Its high centre of gravity helps it flick sharply into turns too, with no shortage of ground clearance. There’s no lack of steering precision either, thanks to its 17in sports-touring tyres.

The motor is probably the element of the Versys that makes the least fuss. Kawasaki reckon they have rewarded the ER-6-based 649cc twin with an extra 5bhp this year, but I’d be surprised if many made it any further than the brochure. It’s the least impressive motor here, with neither the Scrambler’s thumping gravitas nor the MT’s firepower. What the Versys does offer, at least, is an even flexibility from tickover to the 10.000 RPM redline. Gearing is pleasantly short too, helping it pull through the revs while rarely feeling laboured or overwhelmed.

Genuine faults are minimal, though the one that stands out is the lack of a centrestand. There’s no use looking in the Kawasaki catalogue either – it’s missing there too. In its defence, neither the Scrambler nor MT have one, but it’s more of an omission for the Versys given its obvious daily and/or distance intentions.

In this company the Versys may be short on raw appeal. It’s clearly the least characterful, but its more purposeful and more adaptable remit is just as valid as either of the other two bikes. After a day’s testing on all three machines, when all I want to do is get home as easily and as quickly as possible, there’s barely a moment’s hesitation before stepping towards the Versys.

Kawasaki Versys 650 Specs


Engine : Four stroke, Parallel Twin, DOHC 8-Valve, Liquid Cooled
Capacity : 649 cc
Bore x Stroke : 83 X 60 mm
Compression Ratio : 10,6 : 1
Induction : Fuel Injection
Max Power : 51 kW / 69 HP @ 8.500 RPM
Max Torque : 64 N.m @ 7.000 RPM
Transmission / Drive : 6-Speed / Chain

Frame : Steel Diamond
Front Suspension : 41mm Upside Down Forks, Adjustable Preload and Rebound
Rear Suspension : Monoshock, Adjustable Preload
Front Brakes : 2 x 300 mm Disc, 2-Pot Calipers
Rear Brakes : Single 220 mm Disc, 1-Pot Caliper
Front Tyre : 120/70 - ZR17
Rear Tyre : 160/60 - ZR17

Wheel base : 1.415 mm
Seat Height : 840 mm
Wet Weight : 216 Kg
Fuel Capacity : 21 Litres / 5.5 gal
Economy : 44 mpg / 250 miles
Top Speed : 123,11 mph


Ducati Scrambler Urban Enduro






Behold the most polarising bike of 2015. Judging by the reaction from some riders Ducati’s Scrambler is either a bang-on-trend, whistful nod to the innocent days of uncorrupted, air-cooled simplicity, or it’s a cynical, artificial, style-over-substance cash cow.

But whichever side you fall on, a ride on the Ducati Scrambler is guaranteed to nudge you away from your expectations. Anticipate it to be gutless, and you’ll discover how much harder it grunts from tickover than the Kawasaki Versys 650. Reckon it’ll be outgunned by Yamaha’s rorty MT-07 and you’ll be staggered to find the two bikes share identical power and torque figures. Yet the biggest surprise of all comes from following a Scrambler through town. Folk can’t help but turn their heads. Kids. Mums and dads. Old folk. Everyone. Normal people stop and stare, point, whisper, walk up to it in the street. Following the Scrambler on either of the other bikes, you can’t help but feel a pang of jealousy. You might as well be invisible.

Some of the extra attention might be because this is the Urban Enduro version. It gets faux-military green paint, engine bash plate, high front mudguard, fork protectors, spoked wheels, handlebar brace, mesh-style headlight protector – and that crucial custom-bike must-have, the brown seat. Ribbed for your pleasure. "Urban Enduro" is, surely, an intentional contradiction, unless they expect you to start going straight over roundabouts, feet-up through sponsored flowerbeds. But it’s a handsome thing, standing out from dull streets with obvious, rugged character. No wonder non-motorcyclists are intrigued.

Look past the impressive aesthetics, however, and the Scrambler’s dynamic is more of a mixed bag. The riding position sits you confidently in control, with a low seat height and tall, wide bars reached over a long, thin, surprisingly low petrol tank. It’s a riding position designed for tame town speeds. Here it works brilliantly – both feet reach the floor with ease, the upright stance avoids neck-ache, and the bike feels like it must be light simply because you can see so little of it from onboard.




But pick the speed up and that open, expanded position becomes hard work. Holding speed on an open A-road is quickly tiring. By motorway speeds you become a full-on mainsail, dragging and flapping into the headwind rather than slipping through it. The wide bars do at least mean the low-speed agility is retained, giving easy steering, the Scrambler rolling into turns with a sense that its centre of gravity is somewhere down level with the footpegs.

The sole, four-piston front brake is fine, but the suspension is downright disappointing. The lack of adjustment on the forks and shock suggests it may be budget, but the ride quality is what tells you it’s truly cheap. Bumps that the Versys soaks up and the MT-07 cheerily bounces across are simply crashed straight through by the Scrambler, the impact passed directly to the rider.

At least the motor’s pulses are far more pleasing. There’s a lovely throbby feel from the familiar, 803cc two-valve V-twin. Power is concentrated up to 6000rpm, losing interest quickly thereafter. The clutch is light, though the gearbox could be slicker – there are false neutrals hiding, especially between fifth and sixth. Elsewhere, there’s plenty to like about the Scrambler. One pleasing detail is the way the single throttle cable and brake line arc deliberately from the right twistgrip up, round and over the clock, down behind the headlight. The clock unit itself is neat and modest, a small offset circle, yet its simple shape holds a modern LCD display. And the headlight, another apparently simple roundel, actually holds four white LED strips around its circumference. There’s even more smart modernity under the seat, where a USB charging socket lies waiting to save the day when you forget your phone charger.

Approach the Scrambler thinking it’ll cover distance like a Versys, or handle with the flair of an MT-07, and you’ll leave convinced there’s too much pose and not enough poise. But expect it to be a genuinely easy-going bike to be enjoyed and appreciated in other ways, and you, the Scrambler, and the countless sets of admiring eyes will all get along just fine.


Ducati Scrambler Urban Enduro Specs



Engine : Four stroke, 90° L-Twin, Desmodromic 4-Valve, Air Cooled
Capacity : 803 cc
Bore x Stroke : 88 x 66 mm
Compression Ratio : 11 : 1
Induction : Fuel Injection
Max Power : 55 kW / 74.8 HP @ 8.250 RPM
Max Torque : 68 N.m @ 5.750 RPM
Transmission / Drive : 6-Speed / Chain

Frame : Steel Trellis
Front Suspension : 41mm Upside Down Forks
Rear Suspension : Monoshock, Adjustable Preload
Front Brakes : Single 330 mm Disc, 4-Pot Caliper
Rear Brakes : Single 245 mm Disc, 1-Pot Caliper
Front Tyre : 110/90 - ZR18
Rear Tyre : 180/55 - ZR17

Wheel base : 1.445 mm
Seat Height : 790 mm
Wet Weight : 192 Kg
Fuel Capacity : 13,5 Litres / 3.57 gal
Economy : 49 mpg / 145 miles
Top Speed : 123 mph


Yamaha MT-07





It says a phenomenal amount about the MT-07 that, when it first landed last year, riders started discussing it in the same breath as Triumph’s sensational Street Triple. On paper the Yamaha should have been a closer match for more modest middleweights such as Kawasaki’s ER-6n and Suzuki’s Gladius. But on raw fun factor alone, the MT proudly squared up to a machine that totally overshadowed it on power and, more importantly, price.

But that’s a credit to how the MT-07 makes you feel. It’s a small, light, potent bundle of energy ready to be unleashed whenever and wherever. And most of that magic lies in the peppy 689cc parallel twin. Its pistons fire 270 degrees apart, which means that while it’s closer in design to the Versys’s engine, it’s nearer in feel and sound to the Scrambler’s V-twin.

That said, the Yamaha’s centrepiece clearly feels a lot more modern than the Ducati’s. The MT-07 gains and sheds revs far faster, feels smoother and even uses less petrol while it’s doing it. The resulting surge of drive is not to be taken lightly. Open the Yamaha’s throttle hard in first gear and speed is gathered so instantly that the rear half of the bike just shifts the front wheel clean out of its way.

Crucially, this endlessly addictive punch gets all the engine basics too: high-fidelity fuelling at low revs and small throttle openings is hiccup-free; at motorway speeds it feels calm, even and vibe-free; and the power deliver blends both bottom-end stomp and high-revving excitement to keep all kinds of riders happy. The rest of the bike is just as new as the engine, though in places it doesn’t feel quite so advanced. The glamourless steel frame is largely hidden away, with plastic covers between seat and footpeg masquerading as solid swingarm sideplates. Suspension is about as basic as it gets with right-way-up damper-rod forks and a simple rear shock adjustable for preload only. The ride quality is the softest here – more forgiving than the harsh Ducati, but with less damping and a little more recovery time required than the Versys.




While there’s little flashy about the chassis components, their sum total works brilliantly. The shortest wheelbase here, the least trail and the lightest all-up weight conspire to make the MT-07 delightfully quick-steering. It darts from side to side with utter glee, cheerfully overcoming any potential effects of its surprisingly wide 180-section rear tyre. Of the three bikes here the MT feels the most confident in corners, helped by the fact the whole bike is very compact. The bars are almost too narrow, and the bike is so slim in the middle your ankles feel like they could almost touch in places.

The bike’s modest proportions are made to feel subliminally smaller than they really are by the fiddly, tiny, rinky-dink switchgear. There aren’t many irritations on an MT-07 but these are right up there. An ugly excess of thread hanging out the back of the chain adjusters is another, and the stubbornly small 14-litre petrol tank a third.

At least there are plenty of positive distractions, such as the impressive all-digital dash unit. It’s the most comprehensive set of clocks here, combining the most sophisticated appearance with the most complete spread of information, including both a fuel gauge and a gear indicator.

The clocks are a sharp reminder that, for all its focus on fun and games, the MT shouldn’t be written off as a plaything. It would excel as a cross-town commuter too. While the Scrambler has the urban image (and, in this case, the name), the Yamaha is easier to ride in traffic. Gearchanges are smoother, the engine pickup more predictable, and the lack of width makes it easier to filter.

It is telling that Yamaha are in the process of expanding the MT-07 platform with new bikes to rival both the Scrambler and Versys more directly. They’ve just unveiled the retro-styled XSR700, and have recently been caught testing a half-faired Tracerstyle model version too. As it is, the MT-07 is a game-changing, standard-defining machine, and one of the most compelling new bike bargains available today. If that same success is going to be applied to even more bikes, it’s very promising indeed.


Yamaha MT-07 Specs



Engine : Four stroke, Parallel twin cylinder, DOHC 8-Valve, Liquid Cooled
Capacity : 689 cc
Bore x Stroke : 80 x 68.6 mm
Compression Ratio : 11.5: 1
Induction : Fuel injection,
Max Power : 55 kW / 74.8 HP @ 9.000 RPM
Max Torque : 68 N.m @ 6.500 RPM
Transmission / Drive : 6-Speed / Chain

Frame : Steel Diamond
Front Suspension : 41mm Telescopic Forks
Rear Suspension : Monoshock, Adjustable Preload
Front Brakes : 2 x 282 mm Discs 4-Pot Calipers
Rear Brakes : Single 245 mm Disc 1-Pot Caliper
Front Tyre : 120/70 ZR 17M/C(58W) (Tubeless)
Rear Tyre : 180/55 ZR 17M/C(73W) (Tubeless)

Wheel base : 1.400 mm
Seat Height : 805 mm
Wet Weight : 182 Kg
Oil Capacity 3.0 Litres
Fuel Capacity : 14 Litres / 3.7 gal
Economy : 55 mpg / 170 miles
Top Speed : 134.85mph


Verdict






This isn’t the kind of comparison where one bike can really "win". These three machines are made for different reasons, and so bought by different riders with different intentions. Instead, what ties them together is the enormous variety and quality of new bikes available for less than £100 a month.

Kawasaki’s Versys 650 will be the most overlooked, despite also being the most capable. Flexible, frugal, agile and comfortable, it genuinely puts several bigger, more expensive all-rounders to shame. It’s a great all-rounder, yet crucially still fun.

You couldn’t ride half as far on the Ducati Scrambler, but you’d be twice as popular when you arrived. Few bikes have an appeal that spreads beyond other motorcyclists, and the pride of ownership this generates is immeasurable. However, it’s Yamaha’s MT-07 that continues to truly standout, and demonstrate why it was achieve the 2014 Bike Of The Year. It’s rewritten middleweight expectations and, with other variants to come, will continue to do so.

The verdict ? Truly brilliant new bikes really are more affordable than ever before.

Price


Kawasaki Versys 650 : £6885

Yamaha MT-07 : £5885 OTR (£7411 as tested)

Ducati Scrambler Enduro : £8131


Typical Finance (base model bikes)



Kawasaki Versys 650 with K-Options PCP: £1200 dep, 36 months £98.26, final cost £2777 – total £7514.36

Yamaha MT-07 With MiYamaha PCP: £1177 dep, 36 month £95.58, final cost £2348 – total £6965.88

Ducati Scrambler Enduro with Ducati TriOptions PCP: £1623.30 dep, 36 months £99, final cost £4199 – total £9564.30

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Friday, November 27, 2015

New 2011 Ducati 848 EVO

Ducati 848 EVO Preview

The legendary Italian motorcycle manufacturer Ducati released information on the 2011 848EVO, the newest version of its famous lightweight Superbike that will be released late July 2010.

The bike contains the usual features that makes thousands of motorcyclist eagerly seek Ducati's famed Superbike: twin under-seat silencers, single-sided swingarm, Trellis frame, race bodywork and steering damper.

The 2011 848EVO maintains the traditional colour of Ducati red with red frame and black wheels and introduces the new "dark stealth" with racing black frame and black wheels.

Ducati unveiled today the 2011 848 Evo, the most impressive lightweight Superbike ever with more power from the Testastretta engine and more braking power. It will go on sale at a price of £9,995 for the 848 EVO Dark Stealth version (it includes the stunning new "dark stealth" paint with racing black frame and black wheels) and £10,695 for the 848 Evo.

Italian passion for motorsport is synonymous with the stunning performance, soul-stirring sound and seductive, liquid-red styling inherent to a long bloodline of championship-winning Ducati sportbikes. Yesterday's triumph, however, is just that, and the bigger the trophy, the more dust it tends to attract.

Ducati 848 EVO New Ducati 848 EVO 2011

We obtained the very first EVO-spec bike to arrive stateside and promptly put it through our full street and track test regimen. Strapped to CW's Dynojet dyno, the EVO produced 118.5 rear-wheel hp, a mere 1.5-pony increase over the 848 we tested this past year.

Torque builds quickly off idle before easing into a soft spot around 5000 rpm. While the mid-rpm lull is perceptible even at slight throttle settings, fueling remains good, allowing the bike to cruise dead-steady in the lull zone at freeway speeds. The sweet spot for smooth running spans from 4000 to 5000 rpm, yielding an indicated 70 to 87 mph in top gear with only modest engine vibration seeping through the handgrips.


Ducati 848 EVO

New Ducati 848 EVO 2011


Ducati 848 EVO

Engine Ducati 848 EVO


Engine and transmission
Engine type: 2 cylinders, 4-stroke, 90° V-twin
Displacement: 849 cc (51.87 cubic inches)
Bore × stroke: 94 mm × 61.2 mm (oversquare - shortstroke)
Cooling system: Water cooled
Power: 140.04 HP (103 kW) @ 10500 rpm
Torque: 98 Nm (9.99 kg-m) @ 9750 rpm
Throttle: Cable operated
Valves
Valve train: DOHC, variable
Valves per cylinder: 4
Fuel and ignition
Sparks per cylinder: 1
Fuel supply system: Fuel injection
Ignition type: Digital CDI
Compression: 12.1:1
Engine mounting: Transverse
Lubrication system: Wet sump
Gear box: Manual 6-speed
Clutch: Wet, multiple discs, cable operated
Final drive: Chain
Spark plug pipe type: Champion
Motor oil: Synthetic, 20W/50
Starter: Electric

Dimensions
Physical measures
Length: 2095 mm
Width: 730 mm
Height: 1090 mm
Wheel base: 1420 mm
Trail: 97 mm
Ground clearance: 125 mm
Seat height: 780 mm
Weight
Curb weight: 188 kg
Dry weight: 168 kg

Suspension:

  • The 848EVO features fully adjustable 43mm Showa forks with radial brake calliper mountings, which provide superior road holding and precise feedback. A control-enhancing steering damper maintains perfect front-end stability, inspiring supreme control and confidence alongside the increased power output.
  • The lightweight Trellis frame and single-sided swingarm enable a compact and weight-saving rear suspension linkage system, which features separate lower pick-up points for the push-rod and fully adjustable Showa single shock suspension unit. This 'tandem' design effectively reduces stress around the linkage pick-up area of the Trellis frame.
The 848 EVO Dark Stealth and 848EVO will be available at the same price as the outgoing 848 range including the traditional colour of Ducati red with red frame and black wheels and introducing the stunning new “dark stealth” with racing black frame and black wheels.
The 848 EVO chassis get performance help too, with a cross-mounted steering damper standard equipment. Wheels are covered with the latest generation Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP tires, which replace the standard 848’s Dragon Supercorsa PRO. In the braking department, Brembo monobloc calipers round out the changes.

Ducati 848 EVO
The rest of the changes are cosmetic, with the EVO available in “Dark” edition. What makes it Dark? We’ll let Ducati PR explain: “For 2011, a special “Dark” version will be available; which unlike “Dark” editions of Ducati’s past will be a truly black bike from front to rear, giving the motorcycle an aggressive look and attitude.”

The early arrival of the 2011 848 EVO will see bikes available to order from 20th July 2010, with demo bikes arriving at dealers by end of July and customer orders shipped within September.

Ducati 848 EVO New Motorcycle 2011 Ducati 848 EVO
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Monday, November 23, 2015

New Ducati 1199 use gear driven

Our sources close to the development of the Ducati Superbike 1199 Superquadrata have confirmed the rumors that the new Bologna bullet will do away with the tradition belt-driven camshaft and instead feature a gear-driven cam configuration. The same type of technology that Aprilia used to cheat win the 2010 World Superbike Championship title, a gear-driven camshaft configuration should help increase power by 3-5hp throughout the rev range on the Superquadrata motor, as compared to Ducati’s traditional belt configuration.

Widely used in MotoGP, the 1199′s gear-driven camshaft will be a carryover from the Ducati Desmosedici (a point we’re sure Ducati will include in its marketing material), which should help ease the transition for some hardcore enthusiasts who see Ducati’s belt-driven camshaft as an iconic part of the Italian company’s v-twin motor. With seemingly no sacred cows when it comes to the Superbike 1199‘s development, the highly over-square v-twin motor will be nestled in a “frameless” chassis, departing from Ducati’s famous steel trellis designs of the past.

As the Ducati Superbike 1199 expected to lose about 20 lbs of weight with its new frame and other designs, the Superquadrata motor is rumored to be up 20hp over the 1198, reaching the 200hp mark in its highest trim form. With so much tech coming over from the Ducati Corse race team, it’s only a matter of time before we hear whispers of a Valentino Rossi race replica edition (rendered above).

Read more »

Sunday, November 15, 2015

Ducati Multistrada 1200 Preview-2010

THE BEGINNING-MULTISTRADA 1200/2010
That was the brief given to the Ducati designers when they started work on the original Multistrada.’A new biking concept’. A new vision which combined sports performance with trail-blazing capabilities while providing an extremely comfortable ride and unrivalled versatility.Now, Ducati have taken the concept further, with a design that satisfies all the demands of a motorcyclist combined into one bike: a Multistrada with the emphasis on Multi, a sportbike which is powerful and fun but also easy to ride and whose first priority is safety and comfort.Thanks to an impressive technical specification it soon became synonymous with pure riding pleasure, being equally at ease on mountain roads and motorways, ideal for long distances while agile and manageable in town.
Ducati has finally made their much awaited move – go against the BMW R1200GS – and they did it in their own characteristic style. Not only the new Multistrada 1200 looks one-of-a-kind, but it is also backed up by a 150hp Italian engine.

TESTASTRETTA 11° power and control, the ideal travelling companion
Project was the engine the starting point for the complex and innovative Multistrada 1200.
The Multistrada 1200 features an oil bath clutch with ’slipper’ function and super-light feel at the lever. Its design uses a progressive self-servo mechanism that presses the plates together when under drive from the engine, enabling the reduction of the clutch spring rates.The gearbox and final drive ratios have also been optimised to enable the use of a higher-ratio 6th gear. This solution not only enables reduced fuel consumption, but also achieves increased riding comfort by reducing vibration. To give a practical example, if the 1198.

VERSIONS

* Standard
* ABS Package
* ’S’ - with ABS and Öhlins suspension fitted with Ducati Electronic Suspension (DES) in Sport Edition or Touring Edition versio

MULTISTRADA 950 S
SPORT EDITION TOURING EDITION
Carbon fiber engine covers Side Bags
Carbon fiber front air intakes Heated handgrips
Carbon fiber rear mudguard Center stand
Carbon fiber spoilers.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine

Type: L-Twin cylinder, 4 valve per cylinder, Desmodromic, liquid cooled
Displacement: 1198.4cc
Bore x Stroke: 106x67.9mm
Compression Ratio: 11.5:1
Power: 150hp - 110.3kW @ 9250rpm
Torque: 87.5lb-ft 118.7Nm @7500rpm
Fuel injection: tsubishi electronic fuel injection system, Mikuni elliptical throttle bodies
Exhaust: Stainless steel muffler with catalytic converter and 2 lambda probes, alluminium tail pipes.
Transmission

Gearbox: 6 speed
Ratio: 1=37/15 2=30/17 3=27/20 4=24/22 5=23/24 6=22/25
Primary Drive: Straight cut gears, Ratio 1.84:1
Final Drive: Chain 5.30"; Front sprocket 15; Rear sprocket 40
Clutch: Light action, wet, multiplate clutch with hydraulic control. Self-servo action on drive, slipper action on over-run.
Chassis

Frame: Tubular steel Trellis frame
Wheelbase: 1530mm (60.2in)
Rake: 25°
callipers, 4-piston, 2-pad. ABS optional
Rear Brake: 245mm disc, 2-piston caliper
Fuel Tank Capacity: 20l - 5.3gallon (US)
Dry Weight: 189kg (417lb)
Instruments: Na
Warranty: Na
Body Colour (Frame/Wheel): Red (racing grey / black) - Arctic white (racing grey / black)
Front Suspension: Marzocchi 50mm fully adjustable usd forks
Front Wheel Travel: 170mm (6.7in)
Front Wheel: 10-spoke in light alloy 3.50 x 17
Front Tyre: 120/70 ZR17
Rear Suspension: Progressive linkage with fully adjustable Sachs monoshock. Aluminium single-sided swingarm
Rear Wheel Travel: 170mm (6.7in)
Rear Wheel: 10-spoke light alloy 6.00 x 17
Rear Tyre: 190/55 ZR17
Front Brake: 2 x 320mm semi-floating discs, radially mounted Brembo callipers, 4-piston, 2-pad. ABS optional.
Body Colour (Frame/Wheel): Red (racing grey / black) - Arctic white (racing grey / black)
Versions: Dual seat, ABS optional
Seat Height: 850mm (33.5in).
Read more »

Friday, November 13, 2015

2015 Ducati Scrambler First Ride Preview

Reviews : 2015 Ducati Scrambler First Ride 1

2015 Ducati Scrambler First Ride Preview 

Remaining in "The Land of Joy," a stopgap shoreline party Ducati set up inside the Ace Hotel in Palm Springs, California, to serve as its headquarters post for the 2015 Scrambler dispatch (the first run through another Ducati model has been presented Stateside), it was rapidly obvious this wouldn't be similar to any former Ducati dispatch.

Rather than courses, motor schematics and suspension charts, features of worldwide dispatch gatherings, outdoors excursions and surf exploits were playing on the screen. In this time of wearing thin pants, riding skateboards and drinking Ipas, Ducati is trusting the Scrambler will be a symbol for an altogether new era of riders less worried about execution and more intrigued by uniqueness, personalization and fun.

Talk about this at our Ducati Scrambler Forum. 

Actually, amid the "specialized" presentation, its Monster 796-sourced, 803cc, two-valve, air-cooled V-Twin was just said in passing. The truth the Desmodue motor uses a 11-degree valve cover for ideal low and mid-range torque wasn't mumbled noisily either. The single 330mm front brake plate and going with spiral mount four-cylinder Brembo caliper were given a little consideration, thinking of it as' brandishing roots, yet that was basically it.

Reviews : 2015 Ducati Scrambler First Ride 2
Ducati Scrambler Retrospective 

Initially presented in 1962, the Scrambler went on for a long time, until its end in 1975. However as opposed to creating a retro-themed bike, Ducati's impulse was to bring back the Scrambler, following 40 years, as though the organization had never quit making them. The result is the thing that you see here, vigorously roused by, yet not a return to, the first Scrambler. Be that as it may, in this day and period of personalization and customization, Ducati didn't offer only one Scrambler for sale to the public, yet four: the Icon, Urban Enduro, Full Throttle and Classic.

One Bike, Infinite Possibilities 

Each of the four Scramblers have the same motor, ABS brakes, Kayaba suspension (customizable for back preload) and Pirelli MT 60 RS double sportish tires, extraordinarily intended for the Scrambler and its 18-inch front wheel. The general state of the bicycle takes after the type of the first, with the teardrop configuration of the 3.5-gallon steel fuel tank with compatible additions the focal point of convergence. Ducati just brought Icon models to test, expressing the other three weren't prepared to ride when of the introduction. Regardless, since the Icon and its yellow (or red) fuel tank, cast 10-spoke wheels, high decreased bars and dark seat is the premise for the others.

As the name may intimate, the Urban Enduro is suited to handle the urban wilderness and is best suited for the periodic blaze street trip. Its matte green shade differentiates it from the rest, and it likewise gets wire wheels, motor sump watch, high front curved guard, fog light barbecue, handlebar cross prop, fork defenders, and a tan seat with a committed ribbed sewing example.

Next, the Full Throttle draws its motivation from soil track hustling, where its low, decreased handlebars put the rider in a more forceful position. It likewise gets a short front bumper, dark paint plan with yellow stresses, and, as its the most execution arranged of the Scrambler variations, is fitted with a Termignoni slip-on.
Reviews : 2015 Ducati Scrambler First Ride 4

Drawing the closest association with the past, the Scrambler Classic develops the retro-cutting edge topic of the Icon. With an "Orange Sunshine" paint conspire, the Classic gets the same wire wheels as the Urban Enduro, an expanded back bumper, a committed tan seat with "tablet sort" sewing example and a fuel tank with a dark focus stripe, much the same as the Scrambler from the '70s.

Since personalization is such an essential part of the Scrambler, all the segments from the four variations are all exchangeable with one another. Not just that, Ducati is dealing with a long rundown of parts and frill extending from fuel tank supplements to waterproof baggage, to genuinely make the Scrambler your own. The Scrambler experience doesn't stop there; an entire line of Scrambler attire is underway, as well. From T-shirts and hoodies to reinforced riding coats that look like design wear, Ducati is making a decent attempt to underscore the Scrambler is more than a bike, however a way of life.

Reviews : 2015 Ducati Scrambler First Ride

A Millennial's Perspective 

Obviously, a way of life assembled around a bike just works if the machine gives a level of enthusiastic delight. Also if immaculate riding delight is the thing that Ducati is trying for, then it may be on to something with the Scrambler.

The mechanical effortlessness of the Scrambler makes it relatable to a more extensive crowd, including the individuals who will inexorably need to modify it. With no force modes, footing control, or a radiator and its related equipment, the Scrambler is a simple bicycle to get it. Couple that with a guaranteed wet weight of 410 lbs, 75 hp and 50 lb-ft. of torque, and the bicycle is likewise truly lively. Our ride course from Palm Springs to Idyllwild and back introduced an incredible approach to showcase these characteristics. Tragically, on account of a late rain storm in the territory, the flame streets Ducati had anticipated us were washed out and considered unacceptable for the bicycle.

With respect to the riding impressions, we should begin with the uplifting news: on paper a two-valve, air-cooled Twin may not sound exceptionally energizing, however out and about, the 803cc V-Twin is a genuine diamond. It's bottomless low-end torque is simply the ticket for around-town riding or playing in the twisties in transit to getting lost attempting to discover a campground.

Arriving at the ground, actually for my 30-inch inseam, wasn't an issue on account of a 31.1-inch seat stature, a restricted seat/tank crossroads and the general thin nature of the bike. Be that as it may, in case you're still apprehensive about touching down, a low, 30.3-inch seat is accessible as an adornment.

The high bars, consolidated with pegs mounted specifically underneath the rider implies the rider triangle is the very meaning of nonpartisan. Having those wide bars makes leveraging the Scrambler a simple errand, whether its through the twisties, a flame street, or separating through congested city boulevards. Pirelli's MT 60 RS tires, with their bumpy like tread pieces, are shockingly skilled in the city. The link incited grip is light-ish, and a shoe grasp is a welcome expansion on a $8595 cruiser ($8495 for the red, $9995 for alternate models).
Reviews : 2015 Ducati Scrambler First Ride 6

Regardless of just having one front brake circle, the execution from the 330mm rotor and Brembo four-pot radially mounted caliper is amazing. Truly, having twin front plates would have been pointless excess, in addition to the single setup leaves the opposite side of the wheel unhampered for the world to see. A 245mm back circle is mated to a solitary cylinder caliper, and with the ABS exchanged off, takes extensive weight to bolt up.

Abnormally, there were territories where the Scrambler didn't appear to be as cleaned as we've started to anticipate from Ducati. Most remarkably, one rider in our gathering had a fuel line come detached underneath the tank, regurgitating gas onto those behind him, of which I was one. Beside that monstrosity event, huge numbers of the journos in participation, myself included, griped of sharp power application inside the initial couple of degrees of throttle turn. On the other hand, after that, getting on the gas was met with agreeable forward pushed.

It ought to be noted that the preproduction test bicycles ridden at the introduction were all constructed at Ducati's fundamental plant in Bologna, however creation models slated to go to the States will be produced in Ducati's Thailand office.

Navigating the six riggings appeared a bit notchy too, with some individuals reporting hitting a few false neutrals. It just happened once for me, however considering the bicycles we rode just had 120 miles on the clock, its sensible to anticipate that the trans will feel better after more miles.

Those looking to accomplish all the more go romping riding with the Scrambler may be satisfied to learn ABS can be exchanged off, yet there is no procurement to turn just the back off once the blacktop turns tan.

The seat was somewhat firm for my taste, however, in the same way as the transmission, I think that will show signs of improvement after a couple of miles too. Discussing firm, considering the suspension is customizable for back preload, I was astonished by its level of solidness. Bicycles with restricted suspension modification are normally situated on the delicate side for an agreeable ride, keeping in mind the Scrambler unquestionably wasn't unforgiving, I wouldn't see any problems somewhat gentler springs at each one end and back bounce back eased off a smidge.

Reviews : 2015 Ducati Scrambler First Ride 7

The Bigger Picture 

With everything taken into account, those are moderately minor bandy particularly considering the bicycle is gone for a totally distinctive demographic than the individuals who grumble around a click or two more bounce back. The overriding question here is straightforward: Is the Ducati Scrambler enjoyable to ride? It totally is. The Scrambler distils the pleasure in riding into its most fundamental and basic structures – a reviving take in this present day time of progressively exceptional bikes.

While at the dispatch, I talked with some and caught others, all with extensively a larger number of tattoos than me, who were truly amped up for the bicycle and had officially chosen they would be getting one. At the point when inquired as to why, reasons shifted from "It can do everything my Triumph Scrambler can do, just better," to, "I can hardly wait to get one in my shop and truly make it my own."

On the off chance that the reaction the Scrambler is getting on social networking is any evidence of its deals achievement, then Ducati Scrambler will be in for a pleasant 2015. At the same time shouldn't something be said about that other Scrambler? You know, the one from Triumph, the accepted standard bearer in this classification. Has it now ended up outdated? Considering both bicycles have the same name, commonly a correlation test is in place. Stay tuned, as we'll be bringing it to you one when we can.

Reviews : 2015 Ducati Scrambler First Ride 8


2015 Ducati Scrambler Urban Enduro Specifications

IDENTIFICATION
Model Type                                   On-Off Road
BASE MSRP(US)                           $9,995.00  Free Dealer Quote
Dealers                                           Ducati Dealers
Warranty                                           24
Engine Type                                   Longitudinal Twin
Cylinders                                           2
Engine Stroke                                   4-Stroke
Cooling                                           Air
Valves                                           8
Valves Per Cylinder                           4
Valve Configuration                           DOHC
Compression Ratio                          11:1
Starter                                           Electric
Fuel Requirements                           Premium
Fuel Type                                           Gas

TRANSMISSION:  
Transmission Type                          Manual
Number Of Speeds                          6
Primary Drive (Rear Wheel)          Chain

WHEELS & TIRES:  
Front Tire (Full Spec)                  Pirelli® MT 60 RS 120/70 R18
Rear Tire (Full Spec)                  Pirelli® MT 60 RS 180/55 R17

BRAKES:
Front Brake Type                          Hydraulic Disc
Rear Brake Type                          Hydraulic Disc

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
Wheelbase (in/mm)                          56.9 / 1445
Fuel Capacity (gal/l)                          3.8 / 13.5
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Tuesday, November 10, 2015

2014 EICMA: 2015 Ducati 1299 Panigale Preview

2015 Ducati 1299 Panigale 1

2014 EICMA: 2015 Ducati 1299 Panigale Preview
Enormous news leaving the Ducati camp today at EICMA 2014: Bologna's leader sportbike is in fact expanding in dislodging – presenting the Ducati 1299 Panigale. Bits of gossip around a greater Panigale had been spreading among the business as the year progressed, with Portland, Oregon merchant, Motocorsa, fanning the flares with this picture taken at Ducati's U.s. merchant gathering. With the mystery out of the pack, how about we investigate the 1299 Panigale. 

With a profoundly oversquare bore/stroke estimation of 112 x 60.8mm, it was accepted Ducati would build the Superquadro's stroke to attain the greater motor. Shockingly, Ducati left the stroke alone, picking rather to build bore size significantly more – to 116mm – yielding an uprooting of 1285cc. Obviously, with a greater motor comes more power, and Ducati says the 1299 will break the twofold ton, pumping out 205 hp and 106.7 lb-ft of torque (at the wrench) –  10 steeds more than before and almost 9 lb-ft more noteworthy, as well. 
2015 Ducati 1299 Panigale2

Then again, the last time we had a 1199 Panigale on the dyno, amid our 2012 European Literbike Shootout, the Ducati made 162 hp and 81.7 lb-ft. to the wheel. Extrapolating the around 15% driveline misfortune to the 1299, we expect around 175 hp and 91 lb-ft to achieve the ground – genuine influence in reality. Ducati likewise says wet weight for the 1299 will be 420 lbs. 

In average Ducati design, that power can be outfit in a mixed bag of routes because of a further refined hardware bundle contrasted with its ancestor. The three ride modes (Race, Sport, Wet) haven't gone anyplace, and not one or the other has Ducati Traction Control (DTC), Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) and Engine Brake Control (EBC), all of which peculiarity a programmed alignment framework ought to the manager change last drive equipping or use tires with an alternate profile than the standard 120/70-17 front, 200/55-17 back Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP. 

Other than the greater motor, the following huge achievement on the 1299 Panigale is the expansion of Cornering ABS, by Bosch, made conceivable with the expansion of what Ducati calls an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU). Comparable in idea to the framework first seen on KTM's 1190 Adventure, Cornering ABS utilizes sensors to gauge lean plot, pitch, braking energy and different parameters. In the occasion of, say, a crisis stop while hung over, it will circulate braking constrain between the two wheels and decrease the inclination for the bicycle to stand while braking. 

This permits riders to brake as hard as they set out while hung over with a fundamentally lessened shot of tucking the front, slamming, or actually leaving your path. The framework has gotten rave surveys by the individuals who have attempted it on the KTM, with the general agreement being that it essentially takes out any possibility of falling over while submitting the (regularly) pivotal slip of snatching a modest bunch mid-corner. 

Obviously, calling it crashproof would be a slip-up since, so far, man has not figured out how to contravene the laws of physical science. That said, the people at Bosch, who planned the framework, have come damn the Ducati Quick Shift, however now the framework lives up to expectations for both upshifts and downshifts, making the grasp just fundamental
close. Completing off the hardware bundle is the reappearance of

On the case front, the "frameless" Panigale, which utilizes the motor as the principle focused on part, gets a steeper rake of 24 degrees, contrasted with the 24.5-degree edge from in the recent past. The swingarm turn is likewise 4mm lower for enhanced back footing. As is normal in most circumstances, the 1299 Panigale will come in two forms: the standard and S models, with suspension segments being the primary distinction. 

Standard model 1299s come fitted with a completely customizable Marzocchi 50mm transformed fork and Sachs monoshock. In the interim, S display 1299s gimmick a semi-dynamic Ohlins Nix30 43mm altered fork with Tin treatment and Ohlins Ttx36 stun. Both units are completely flexible, with layering and bounce back circuits customizable electronically. Ohlins additionally supplies the semi-dynamic directing damper on S models, while standard models get a simple Marzocchi damper. 

S models additionally stand separated from the standard bicycles by method for  produced wheels (cast wheels on standard 1299), full LED front lamp, carbon fiber front bumper, and the expansion of thumb and trigger finger catches to conform DTC, DWC and EBC on the fly. Standard Panigales are inclined for the catches, yet aren't now furnished with them. Ultimately, the effectively comprehensible TFT instrument showcase returns on both models, reinforced by the incorporation of a lean point marker. 

Ducati Panigale 
2015 Ducati 1299 Panigale

For 2015 the Panigale R is back, dropping the 1199 it had in its name a year ago. Since World Superbike guidelines limit Twins to a 1200cc uprooting, the 1299 Panigale is ineligible. Rather, Ducati's homologation racer keeps the past 1198cc Superquadro motor, yet gets an assembly of overhauls. Both admission and fumes valves are titanium, as are the joining poles. Cylinders emphasize two rings and the light crankshaft is adjusted utilizing tungsten embeds. Ducati says the Panigale R, in the same way as the 1299 variant, will accomplish 205 hp, yet the littler motor achieves that figure at 11,500 rpm, 1000 revs higher than the 1299. Torque is clearly down marginally from the greater bicycle (100.5 lb-ft versus 106.7 lb-ft), and takes a swing at a higher motor speed (10,250 rpm versus 8750 rpm). 

The Ducati Panigale likewise contrasts from the 1299s by method for its full Titanium Akrapovic fumes framework and lightweight lithium-particle battery. Ohlins still gives the Nix30 43mm modified fork and Ttx36 stun, however these units are completely mechanical, not semi-dynamic or electronic. 
2015 Ducati 1299 Panigale 23

Something else, the Panigale R gets the same gadgets bundle as the 1299 Panigale S, including the DTC, DWC, EBC (with the thumb/finger catches for every one of the three), DQS, ride modes TFT show and Cornering ABS. The R likewise comes standard with the Ducati Data Analyser (DDA), with GPS and lean plot visualization. All together, Ducati says the Panigale R weighs 406 lbs including "all liquids and filled to no less than 90% of usable tank limit." That's a 14-lb weight decrease contrasted with the 1299 Panigale, 11 lbs short of what the 2014 Panigale R and just 13 lbs heavier than the ultra select 1199 Superleggera.

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2015 Ducati Monster 1200 Preview

Reviews : 2015 Ducati Monster 1200

2015 Ducati Monster 1200 Preview

For 2015, the Ducati Monster family – which incorporates the Monster 1200 and Monster 821 – duplicates in size with the expansion of the Monster 821 Stripe and Monster 1200 Stripe, both presented today at EICMA 2014.
Reviews : 2015 Ducati Monster 1200 6

Both Stripe models are recognized by their red shade plan with a white stripe running down the center, covering the front curved guard, fuel tank and traveler seat spread. For Monster 821 fans, the Stripe show likewise accompanies an execution update as 43mm Kayaba reversed forks in front and Sachs stun in back. Both units are completely movable. The 1200 Stripe, then, gets a Ducati Performance undertail permit plate holder and carbon cinch covers.

Ducati Monster1200 

Shade Scheme: Ducati Red with red casing and dark wheels

Particulars

1198cc Testastretta 11-degree Dual-Spark motor
Max (asserted) power: 135 hp (at crankshaft)
Trellis edge appended to chamber heads
Single-sided swingarm
TFT instrumentation

Riding modes 
Ducati Safety Pack (3-level ABS, 8-level DTC)
Completely movable 43mm Kayaba fork
Movable Sachs directing damper
Outspread brake/grasp expert chambers
Stature flexible seat
Traveler seat spread
Creature 1200 S
Color Scheme: Ducati Red with red casing and dark wheels, or Star White with bronze edge and dark wheels


Determinations 

1198cc Testastretta 11-degree Dual-Spark motor
Max (asserted) power: 145 hp (at crankshaft)
Trellis casing joined to barrel heads
Single-sided swingarm
TFT instrumentation


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2015 Ducati Multistrada 1200 DVT Spied Preview

2015 Ducati Multistrada 1200 DVT Spied 1

2015 Ducati Multistrada 1200 DVT Spied Preview

A spy photographic artist has caught another Ducati Multistrada 1200 experiencing testing, affirming it will utilize the Testastretta Desmodromic Variable Timing (DVT) motor.

2015 Ducati Multistrada 1200 DVT Spied 2
Notwithstanding the stimulating camo design, we can make out the state of the as of late uncovered DVT motor. The new valve prepare autonomously conforms timing on both the admission and fumes valves utilizing an agent fitted on the end of every camshaft. At high rpm, the framework builds the measure of valve cover, expanding execution. At lower motor speeds, the cover is minimized for smoother, more liquid force conveyance.

As indicated by Ducati, the 1198cc Testastretta DVT motor has a crest yield of 160 hp at 9500 rpm, or 10 a bigger number of steeds than the current Multistrada's motor. Ducati likewise asserts an extra 9 ft-lb. of torque, fixing out at 100 lb-ft. at 7500 rpm.
2015 Ducati Multistrada 1200 DVT Spied 3

The motor isn't the main thing that has changed. The steel trellis edge is new, as is the back subframe which has all the earmarks of being lower than on the current model, making for a shorter seat tallness. It's hard to make out with the camo design yet the fairing has been changed. The radiator cover has an alternate point, uncovering a greater amount of the upset fork, now anodized in gold and with new brake caliper mounts.

From the front, we can see a hole in the fairing between the two headlights. The universal ADV-style mouth looks new with a more extensive shape with more precise nostrils. The wheels seem to be indistinguishable to those on the current model.
2015 Ducati Multistrada 1200 DVT Spied 5

The under-motor suppressor additionally looks updated, with the "U.s.a." chalked onto it recommending Ducati was trying fumes segments intended for American outflow principles on this model.

We'll likely need to hold up until EICMA in right on time November for Ducati to uncover official data about the new 2015 Multistrada. Ducati will present its new models on November 4.
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2015 Ducati Diavel Preview

Reviews : 2015 Ducati Diavel
2015 Ducati Diavel Preview 

Presented 

EICMA 2014, the Ducati Diavel range, which incorporates the standard Diavel and the Diavel Carbon, is reinforced by the restricted version Diavel Titanium. As the name proposes, the Diavel Titanium exploits the lightweight and solid metal, and joins it with vital dosages of carbon fiber to make an exquisite yet vile looking new part of the Diavel family, of which just 500 will be made. 
Reviews : 2015 Ducati Diavel 5

Each of the three Diavels characteristic the same Testastretta 11-degree Dual-Spark motor, producing 162 guaranteed drive at the wrench. That power is sustained to the fat 240/45-17 Pirelli Diablo Rosso II back tire (in advance is a more ordinary 120/70-17 Diablo Rosso II), and in the occasion you need help taming everything, the Diavel's gadgets bundle is there to offer assistance. Emphasizing three ride modes (Sport, Touring, Urban), and Ducati Traction Control (DTC) and ABS, every Diavel tries its hardest to act like a tender titan. Marzocchi gives the 50mm rearranged fork to each of the three models, while Sachs brings the monoshock. Both front and back are completely movable. Each of the three models characteristic TFT instrumentation and LED headlights. 

Reviews : 2015 Ducati Diavel 4

Likewise, the Titanium additionally gets the accompanying things: 
Machine-completed manufactured dark wheels with committed configuration 
Titanium focal and side tank covers 
Titanium front lamp spread 
Traveler seat cover in carbon with titanium embed 
Uncommonly outlined air admissions in carbon fiber 
Carbon fiber radiator covers 
Carbon fiber windscreen 
Carbon fiber front and back bumpers 
Carbon fiber front sprocket spread 
Carbon fiber tank filler encompass 
Situate in Alcantara and calfskin 
Fumes channels with Zircotech artistic covering 
Stainless-steel silencers 
Exclusively numbered tank-mounted plaque (XXX/500) 

The Diavel Carbon will be accessible in two shade decisions: Red Carbon with a red edge and dark wheels, or Star White with a white casing and dark wheels. Beside the Testastretta motor, suspension, lighting, instrumentation, ride modes, ABS and DTC the standard model gets, the Carbon additionally offers: 
Reviews : 2015 Ducati Diavel 3

Marchesini, fashioned, turned and processed wheels 
Stainless-steel silencers 
Carbon fiber tank spread 
Carbon fiber back seat spread 
Carbon fiber front mud watch 

Reviews : 2015 Ducati Diavel 2

The standard Diavel will be accessible in stand out shade plan: Dark Stealth with a dark casing and just as dull wheels. Valuing was not accessible as of press time.
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