Table of contents for 16 July 2025 in MCN

TOP STORY The first all-new Nortons seen under TVS ownership will make their debut by the end of this year, with bosses confirming three new engine platforms are on the way, with two bikes set to become available using each of the new motors. The news came during an exclusive interview with both Executive Directors of the brand, Nevijo Mance and Richard Arnold, and follows an initial pledge made at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed to produce six new models over the next three years. Not only this, but the styling used on the incoming machinery looks set to move away from the retro aesthetic we've come to know from the brand – a move that could upset some purists, but equally draw in a new, wider clientele. “I…

Triumph have unveiled a new, off-road styled Scrambler 400 XC, which beefs up their existing A2-friendly retro with tubeless spoked wheels and tweaked bodywork – with bikes expected in UK dealers from September priced at £6545. That's £600 more than the Scrambler 400 X it'll sit alongside, with both machines sharing the same tubular steel hybrid frame and 398cc liquid-cooled TR-series single also used in the Speed 400 roadster. Performance figures remain unchanged, with the Euro5+ compliant thumper producing a claimed 39.5bhp at 8000rpm, plus 27.7lb.ft of torque at 6500rpm. There's still a six-speed box, torque-assist clutch, and the same non-adjustable 43mm big piston USD forks with 150mm of travel up front, plus a gas-charged monoshock with a matching stroke at the rear. Where the new bike departs from its…

Four-time World Superbike champion, Carl Fogarty was star of the show at last weekend's Goodwood Festival of Speed, with four days of high-speed hill climb action laid on to celebrate the pinnacle of production-based bike racing. With the event taking place from Thursday, July 10 to Sunday, July 13, the idyllic Chichester venue welcomed around 20 superbikes for a unique ‘Golden Era of WorldSBK’ celebration – with Fogarty honoured with a special ‘balcony moment’ on the Friday. “It's really nice to be recognised and remembered at the event,” Fogarty told MCN on the Thursday evening. “It's a great honour and it's going to be quite special tomorrow, – almost like Brands Hatch in the 90s with 120,000 people everywhere. “My 1994 bike stands out for me. It was my first…

CFMoto have made a big impact in the UK, introducing a range of affordable alternatives into segments including sporty middleweights, nakeds, low-slung cruisers, and the adventure class. One machine that we are yet to see on our shores though is this XO Papio Racer, which blends small proportions with 80s-inspired bodywork, and even an under-seat exhaust. Already available in a number of markets including the US, you only have to look at the sales of Honda's Grom family and the sheer number of aftermarket extras, forums, and owners’ groups, to realise there is a real passion for small bike culture in the UK. Unlike other options in this segment, the Papio features a front fairing with integrated indicators and side bodywork – with large dual LED headlights clearly inspired by…

Oxford are helping MCN mark 70 brilliant years in print by offering you the chance to win this brilliant biking campsite bundle, with a host of prizes that'll allow you to ride until sunset then pitch up and enjoy an evening around the firepit. We've got one Oxford Micro Tent and Firepit bundle worth £290 to give away, alongside four runner-up prizes of an Oxford Firepit (£89.98). Pack light and ride far with Oxford's super-compact, ultra-lightweight Micro-tent, a technical tour de force. Its tiny packed size and low weight make it easy to load and transport with the rest of your luggage. Weighing in at an incredible 2.5kg, with a packed size of 32cm x 19cm, yet despite its lack of bulk, durability is not compromised. Made from waterproof Ripstop…

Adventure motorcycling is heading for the silver screen, with the inaugural Adventure Motorcycle Film Festival set to take place at Kendal's Brewery Arts Centre. Planned for February 28, 2026, the event has been organised by Clive Barber and Simon Josey of the Trail and Adventure Motorbike Podcast and Reel Riders Podcast, respectively. The one-day movie showcase will play an inspirational hand-picked selection of international two-wheel travel films. “There'll be between eight and 10 films, selected by a panel of judges,” Barber told MCN. “It's a real mix – Llewellyn Sullivan-Pavey's already submitted something, and we've had entries from Danny Lilwall and filmmakers in the US.” Submissions are being accepted now from anywhere in the world, with prizes available across four categories: best short (under 30 minutes), best feature (over 30…

Oxford Premium Paddock Stand £61.64 Top deals on tasty tyres and tools Long summer evenings, cloudless skies and open roads… the perfect combination for getting out on a mid-week ride, which along with the opportunities for fair weather commuting, touring and visiting all manner of bike meets, means you'll be piling on the miles. It's what we live for as motorcyclists, but with all that extra riding comes an uptick in maintenance, so this week we've been digging up deals that'll help keep you rolling, from cleaning kit and tools to tyres and garage gear. Oxford's Premium Paddock Stands have been popular not just with the MCN team, but they've earned the coveted ‘Best Buy’ triangle from our sister publication RiDE magazine too. Constructed from sturdy 38mm tubing, they roll…

Honda have pulled the wraps off the CUV e – their second electric scooter for European markets, following on from the EM1 e launched last year. The new model forms part of the firm's wider plan to launch at least 10 electric two-wheelers globally by the end of this year. The CUV e uses a 6kW side-mounted motor and two removable 50.3V lithium-ion batteries to deliver a claimed top speed of 52mph and a range of 43.5 miles. Charging both batteries from 0-100% takes around six hours, with 25-75% possible in under three. Riders can select from three modes – Econ, Standard, and Sport – and Honda have added a Reverse Assist function for low-speed manoeuvring. The scooter will be available in two versions, with base models receiving a five-inch…

Send your first bike pics to: yourpics@motorcyclenews.com My son Peter with youngest daughter Maylee aged seven on her first pillion ride on the Yamaha Fazer 1000. Chris Young My first bike in 25 years. It was all over until my son bought me another TDM. I'm 65 and reborn! Matthew Richards 16 and the tuning's already started. Here I am on my 1977 Honda SS50 5-Speed with 72cc kit fitted. William Barber £5 in 1964 from a farmer. Headmaster agreed we could race it on the playground out of hours. Great Fun. Mark Turner My first road legal bike a Francis-Barnett Falcon with sports modifications! Mark Turner This was my first big bike in 1966, it was a 1961 Velocette Viper 350cc before moving on to a BSA Gold Star.…

1 July 19 Kempton autojumble If you're looking for that last piece of the puzzle to finish the project in your garage, then get yourself down to Kempton Park Racecourse (TW16 5AQ) this Saturday. The autojumble will be in full swing and tickets are available both online and on the gate. kemptonautojumble.co.uk 2 July 20 Bike4Life The Bike4Life Ride and Festival is this weekend. The rideout begins in Shrewsbury (SY3 9NB) and ends at the festival site in Weston Park, Shifnal (TF11 8PX). Tickets start from £7.50 for just the festival, or £15 for the rideout. www.bike4lifefest.com 3 July 19-20 Barry Sheene Festival With close action at Oliver's Mount (our only mainland roads circuit), the Barry Sheene Festival is always a popular event and the sun usually shines, too. You can take…

What's happening? The programme of events is not only packed, it's filled with bits and bobs which have no place at a motorcycle festival – yet make perfect sense. From wild swimming to moto polo championships and everything in between, you'll be in for a packed weekend filled with great vibes. The essentials Held at Grimsthorpe Castle (PE10 0LY), it's a unique venue for an individual event. Unfortunately, rider registration has sold out, but general admission is still available – £210 for the three-day weekend, or day admission is £78. There are tickets left for experiences as well as glamping, so take a look at what takes your fancy. Head to mallelondon.com for information…

The Tesi H2 Tera might just be Bimota's breakthrough bike: after years of beating the high-end sportsbike drum with limited success, applying their hallmark high-technology and premium finish to a sports-tourer might make more sense than anyone imagined. Before owners of classic Bimotas turn up with pitchforks, let me explain. The oldies are wonderful - a 944cc big-bore DB2 ranks as a personal favourite, though a restored SB4 and YB4 remain in the memory, too… But ultimately, the demand for a quality chassis to wrap around engines not done justice by their own manufacturers dropped off before the Rimini firm really established themselves. Their bikes are interesting, but pricey curios, often let down by production values. Ready for adventure? Competing with mainstream sportsbikes is a hiding to nothing, but offering…

FIRST RIDE Having cut their teeth in the small-capacity segment, Zontes are branching out with a new triple. While there are plans for a crossover bike as well as a cruiser and sportsbike, the first model to showcase their future path is the ZT703-F adventure bike. With a low price and some eye-catching extras, is it another tempting alternative from mainstream brands? All-new engine The 699cc triple has been designed and built by Zontes and is the company's first big-capacity motor. With two power modes – Sport and Eco – as well as an up-only quickshifter, it is in a lower state of tune in the F than the upcoming RR (which has a claimed 110bhp) to allow the bike to be restricted down to A2-legal. On the go the…

‘A champion 15 times over’ Sheene's character and lifestyle would have counted for nothing if he hadn't been able to deliver out on track. Fortunately, he had what it took on that front. Everyone knows he won the 500cc world championship in 1976 and 1977, but he also won a host of other titles. He was 125cc British champion as early as 1970 and finished second to Angel Nieto in the 1971 125cc world championship, while retaining his British title in the same year. In 1973 he won the Formula 750 European Championship and also took both the MCN British Superbike and Shellsport 500 titles. He successfully defended both domestic titles in 1974. In the two years that he won the world championship (1976 and ‘77) he also took the…

@justingetsabout Mile-munching shed dweller with a definite penchant for the road less travelled. I've already extolled the SP's virtues on the commute and talked about how addictive that deep rooted DNA for bagging bends is, so this month I decided to turn the fun factor up to 11 and let it loose on track. My circuit skills needed a proper dust off, so an evening slot at Cadwell Park seemed an ideal way to ease back into it. With sign-on and briefings complete, a steady sighting lap revealed pleasingly familiar reference points and by the time I'd rounded Barn a third time I felt ready to have at it. I wasn't too concerned with the intricacies of what I should be doing and when; I was just happy pedalling as…

£3000-£4500 (2009-2013) KTM's 990 supermoto offerings have all the potential of being hooligans but they are actually very easy-going – when you want them to be… In 2009 KTM decided to expand on this user-friendliness with the SM-T, a touring-targeted model that came with better weather protection and a comfort seat. If you want a 17in-wheeled adventurer with plenty of spirit, look no further. BUYER BEWARE • The SM-T gained ABS and panniers as standard in 2012 alongside a remote preload adjuster. • Some develop fluid leaks, mainly around the clutch slave cylinder and the water pump seal. Check these areas well for any corrosion or signs that fluid is escaping past the seals. Both are easy to replace if there are any issues. • If you want something sportier,…

£4000-£8000 (2015-2021) A real unsung hero of Honda's range, the Crossrunner is effectively a VFR800 on stilts (it stands 25mm taller on its suspension) and makes for a superb do-it-all. Comfortable, practical and very reliable, the Crossrunner is surprisingly agile when ridden with enthusiasm and that V4 motor has way more character than the NC models’ parallel-twin engines. BUYER BEWARE • Be wary of bikes approaching a denomination of 16,000 miles as that's the valve-clearance service. Because the V4 is horribly complicated to work on, it can easily set you back more than £800. • Ideally, avoid the first gen Crossrunner (2011-2014) – they aren't as good as the updated model. • Once the bike is warm, look for any misting in the dash. • 2017 saw the bike gain…

In contrast with Davey Todd's domination of the big bike races, honours were shared across all three Supersport events. Todd came out on top in the first race on Wednesday evening on his Milenco Padgetts Honda after a titanic battle with Mike Browne on the BPE Russell Racing Yamaha. Todd led at the half-way point by just a tenth of a second from Browne, with Dunlop giving chase on the Ducati before the Italian machine ground to a halt. That left Todd and Browne to fight it out for the win over the final lap with Todd sealing victory by 1.2 sec and a new lap record at 111.544mph. Irishman Michael Sweeney (EM Building Yamaha) held off Nathan Harrison (H&H Motorcycles Honda), Paul Jordan (Jackson Racing Honda) and Rob Hodson…

For the first time this year, Nicolo Bulega doesn't lead the standings. Heading to Hungary next week, the Ducati rider sits four points adrift of Toprak Razgatlioglu, with 310 still on the table. At Donington, Bulega took a trinity of second places. Like at BMW, fuel flow restrictions resulted in gearing changes that necessitate various modifications. “Toprak is strong everywhere but especially here,” Bulega said, hampered by sweat stinging his eyes during Race 1 plus average starts all weekend. ‘Knew it could be difficult - and it was’ “We knew it could be difficult – and it was, but not so bad. Three seconds are good. There's circuits coming that I like more. “My biggest weakness is the first few metres on acceleration out of slow corners. We need more…

There was delight at Motocorsa Ducati as Ryan Vickers celebrated his best WSBK weekend thus far. The Norfolk rider, a previous BSB winner at Donington, qualified seventh and managed finishes of 12th, 11th and 11th, although it could have been even better had he not out-braked himself into Goddards during the Superpole Race. “Friday practice is so important,” the 26-year-old explains. “When you know a circuit, you can adapt the bike correctly. I know the lines and what I should be getting performance-wise. “To be able to roll out in FP1 and really dial in the electronics helps so much. By FP3, the race set-up is done and you can focus on qualifying. On occasions of not previously knowing the circuit, that's a difficult step to make when you're learning…

70 years of motorcycling have been captured faithfully within the pages of MCN and delivered to you, our beloved reader, every Wednesday since 1955. From those early grease-stained days of tinkering with British singles to today's more hands-free electronic era, the evolution is staggering. But look beyond 2025's winglets, TFT displays and 38,000-mile valve service intervals you'll see that biking's core remains unchanged; the freedom of the open road, the camaraderie of a shared ride and the thrill of the wind in your face. Geoff Duke felt it in exactly the same way Marc Marquez does, and in turn he feels it just like you and I. Times are definitely changing but, as you'll see through the marvellous features so lovingly created by the MCN team in this special 70th…

How the brand was reshaped by TVS Norton was purchased for £16million by TVS Motor Company Group in April 2020, after the collapse of Norton Motorcycles UK Ltd (NMUL). Having paid £15m for the intellectual property, plus £1m for equipment and stock, the Indian giant set about pledging an additional £100m – moving away from Norton's old Donington Hall residence and establishing a cutting-edge factory facility in Solihull, which now oversees the development, production, and testing of the existing line-up. This range currently consists of the £16,999-on Commando 961 family, plus a £42,000 V4CR super-naked, and £44,000 V4SV superbike. Although some can trace their looks back to the previous Norton company, both the Commando and sportier V4 were subject to a £2.3m redevelopment and delivery programme - ensuring improved build…

Double Dakar Rally champion, Sam Sunderland used the Thursday of this year's Festival of Speed to launch a new round-the-world record attempt, backed by Red Bull and Triumph Motorcycles. Riding a brand-new Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer, distinguished by a striking Red Bull livery, Sunderland must traverse 15 countries, on five continents, and 13 time zones – to beat a time of 19 days, eight hours, and 25 minutes – a feat set back in 2002 by two-up Brits, Kevin and Julia Sanders. He must cover a minimum of 18,000 miles, follow a single direction around the globe, start and finish in the same place, plus touch two antipodal points - locations on earth that are diametrically opposed. “I honestly see the biggest challenge as being myself,” he told MCN. “I've…

Kawasaki have unveiled their 2026 off-road line-up, including revamped KX250 (£7799) and KX450 (£8399) crossers and new youth machines. Both full-size KX models enjoy Showa forks, new Brembo brakes, and smartphone engine tuning, alongside road-legal X variants. For younger riders, Kawasaki offer the semi-auto KLX110R and race-ready two-stroke KX65. The full range is due in dealers later this year. It's last call for Malle Mile tickets The Malle Mile returns to Lincolnshire's Grimsthorpe Castle this weekend. Spectator tickets - including general admission, youth and one-day options – remain on sale, while rider registration passes have sold out. It all starts on Friday and you can still soak up the action, music, custom bikes, art installations and racing action. Fresh Morbidelli metal incoming Morbidelli have expanded their line-up in the shape…

Kawasaki have issued a recall notice across the UK and Europe for ZX-6R supersport models produced in 2024 and 2025. A spokesperson for the UK arm of the business confirmed that the issue relates specifically to ZX636J models, where crankcase fastening bolts may have been over-tightened during production - potentially causing a seizure of the crankshaft main bearing. They added that all dealers have now been informed, and that customers have been written to in order to rectify the issue. It was also added that cases are very rare, with data gathered so far by the firm showing less than 1% of machines are affected by the problem. In the US litigation-heavy market, Kawasaki have declared this to be a ‘no ride’ recall, but the same decision has not been…

Send your trips to yourpics@motorcyclenews.com Reader Artem Nagornych The ride Through Wales to ABR How many miles 950 Tell us about the trip… I set off from North Yorkshire and travelled to South Wales for the BMW Off Road School, splitting 50/50 between motorway and A-roads. I would describe the next two days as the best I've had in a long time – meeting great people, riding great bikes. On day four I travelled to Devil's Bridge and tried a section of TET. This was above my experience on such a large bike with luggage, and the decision was made to get back on the road. Day five: The plan was to ride to north to Llanberis. After half an hour of riding, I spotted a side road leading into…

Bimota's Chief Operating Officer, Pierluigi Marconi, was the young engineer who devised the Tesi (pronounce it Tay-Zee) system back in 1980 as part of his university thesis. The idea was applied to several prototypes: first on a Kawasaki GPz550-derived machine, then later powered by a Honda VF400F and VF750F race motor. These had complex hydraulic steering that contributed to slow development – but the 1989 ‘YB Tesi’ with a WSBK-spec Yamaha FZ750 showed promise when it was ridden to pole position by Giancarlo Falappa in one round of the Italian TT F1 championship (he DNF'd the race with a fogged visor), but it was discarded in favour of the first production Tesi - the Ducati 851-powered 1D which achieved limited race success. A 1993 500GP prototype never saw a grid.…

Set for adventure Zontes’ F-model comes with a 21in front wheel fitted with Michelin Anakee Adventure tyres. A ZT703-T is set to be released soon with 17in wheels, giving it more of a road-bias. A dashing dash The colour 6.75in TFT dash has four (oddly named…) display modes – City, Wild, Casual and Athletics – as well as navigation. Connectivity is included as standard. Screen choice As well as being electronically adjustable, the Zontes arrives with a choice of two screens. There is a taller one for touring and a shorter one for sportier riding. We suffered a lot of noise.…

£5000-£10,000 Yamaha RD350LC…

Sena 50R comms £329 The best ‘problem’ about my job is that I can wear multiple helmets a year, and regularly ride multiple bikes, too. As someone with the sense of direction of a fish in a bag, I rely on my comms to navigate me, and I do like to have the radio on during long trips, too. The Sena 50R allows me to chop and change as I please, and although I found installation slightly tricky at times, it fits most of my helmets without too much fiddling (although you only get a couple of stickers in the pack, so I had to order some more eventually). The sound quality is great and according to people on the other end of occasional phone calls, you can barely tell…

Insta360 Ace Pro 2 £389.99 6 months ON TEST The Ace Pro 2 has become my go-to camera. It's £390 and yeah, it's not the smallest or lightest, but that flip screen makes life so much easier than before, meaning I can switch settings mid-ride without taking my helmet off. The 8K video looks amazing, but what really sells it for me is how good it is in low light – it's practically nocturnal. The built-in mic wind muff is a lifesaver for proper bike sound, and linking it to my intercom is great. Only downside? The field of view feels a bit tight on a sportsbike, which I hope they improve on their next action camera. But it's still my favourite camera hands down. MCN rating www.store.insta360.com…

Not everyone wants to take an adventure bike off-road and if that's the case, why put up with a 19in or 21in front? Not only does a larger-diameter wheel compromise handling, it also reduces grip levels because there is less of a contact patch for the rubber when compared to a 17in wheel. If you are a tarmac-tourer who likes the thought of an upright riding position offered by an adventure bike yet doesn't want to hit the dirt, why not try out a 17in-wheeled option? Here are some great used machines to tempt you. YOUR EXPERT Jon Urry is MCN used bike guru. He loves a 17in wheeled adventure bike and has ridden all five of these models many times.…

£4000-£5500 (2015-2018) The first major overhaul of Kawasaki's ‘Versatile System’ (Versys) saw it gain refinements that make it the pick of the early models. As well as three-level traction control and two power modes as before, you get ABS, an adjustable screen, a clean-mount pannier system and much more. A brilliant mile-muncher, the Versys is understated but excellent. BUYER BEWARE • The engine is bulletproof as long as its service schedule is adhered to. Minor service is 4000 miles, major 8000 miles and valve clearance checks at 16,000 miles. • Kawasaki released a few versions of the Versys with official extras fitted. The Tourer has panniers and handguards as standard, while the Grand Tourer expands on the Tourer with an additional topbox, fog lamps and engine protectors. • A gear…

MCN's website has expert opinion and buying advice on hundreds of used bikes, regularly updated and packed with insight. Here are three of the latest – visit motorcyclenews.com for dozens more. 2017-2020 Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 Owners’ rating Powered by a perky V-twin, the Dorsoduro is more big-supermoto than tourer but it is a riot to ride. Owners rate it highly and they are now pleasingly cheap in used market. 2013-2017 Aprilia Caponord 1200 Owners’ rating Aprilia's underrated adventure bike came and went but it is loaded with tech. The standard bike has 17in wheels, the Rally a 19in front. Go for the stock model with the Travel Pack. 2020-2024 BMW F900XR Owners’ rating The fact 29 owners have left reviews proves how popular BMW's parallel-twin crossover bike is. It scores…

Organised by the Southern 100 club's enthusiastic volunteers under the leadership of chairman, George Peach, the Isle of Man meeting has been dubbed ‘The Friendly Races’ because of its welcoming atmosphere. Unusual in running racing from Monday until Thursday rather than at the weekend around the 4.25-mile Billown course outside Castletown, the meeting has attracted most of road racing's biggest stars over the last seven decades including names such as Phil Read, Joey Dunlop, Ian Lougher, Jason Griffiths, Ryan Farquhar, Cameron Donald and Guy Martin. To mark this year's 70th anniversary, the organisers brought together a host of past winners of the feature Solo Championship race. Amongst the line-up were Dave Leach (1989), Steve Tonkin (1974), Dave Dean (1980), Dave Pither (1984), Kenny Harrison (1985-86), Bob Jackson (1995 and 1998),…

Chloe Jones became the first British rider to claim a podium in the Women's Circuit Racing World Championship, thrilling the Donington crowd with third place on Saturday. Sunday's race was less fruitful, with 21-year-old Jones taken down at the Melbourne Loop on the final lap by an aggressive Maria Herrera. Herrera and Spanish compatriot Beatriz Neila shared the wins, and nine points separate them in the standings. In World Supersport, PTR Triumph's Tom Booth-Amos scored more points than anyone – 40 – with two second places. The Shropshire rider led for much of Race 2 but was hampered by arm pump despite a recent operation in San Marino. Stefano Manzi and Can Oncu shared the victory spoils, with championship leader Manzi recovering 10 positions to seventh following an early incident…

Reporting direct from the Donington Park round TOP STORY The tones of the Army brass band playing 90s club classic Freed From Desire swirled around inside the heads of ROKiT BMW teamsters on Sunday night after Toprak Razgatlioglu did the honours in spectacular fashion at Donington Park. The British track is the Turkish rider's favourite, even more so after he achieved the treble for the third time there. As a result, the reigning World Superbike Champion has muscled leadership of the series away from Nicolo Bulega for the first time in 2025 despite the Ducati man trying his utmost with a trio of second places. A Toprak triple was likely heading to Leicestershire although a few years ago it felt impossible that Tom Sykes’ Donington record of nine wins would…

Whisper it, but David Muñoz, Grand Prix's wild child, is finding some consistency to match his obvious talent. He scored a second Moto3 win at the Sachsenring to make it five top five results in the last six. “He did a tactically very clever race, was always in the leading group and took the lead at the right moment in the last corner before the finish line,” said Team Manager Peter Oettl of his rider's race-winning overtake on Jose Antonio Rueda at the final corner. The weekend ended in heartache for Scott Ogden. The 21-year-old took a first British pole position in the class since 2020 on Saturday in wet conditions but crashed out of podium contention with three laps to go. “It was a weekend when we took a…

Viewed one way, Jake Dixon could hail a strong Moto2 podium in Germany after suffering a massive 110mph crash on Saturday morning. But the 29-year-old couldn't hide his frustration at being hit twice by other riders, and missing a chance to challenge leaders Deniz Oncu and Barry Baltus due to an early red flag. “Pissed off more than anything,” said Dixon, who was tagged by Senna Agius early in the first corner then by Diogo Moreira mid-race. “I don't know what the thinking is with some riders. At Turn 1 a guy jump-started [Agius] then nearly T-boned me. What's the thinking there? “I didn't want to push too hard after that and was saving the tyre. And Moreira, I have no idea what he was trying… I couldn't see him…

Motorcyclist deaths rose by 9% in 2024, with 343 riders killed on UK roads, according to figures from the Department for Transport. This contrasts with the one percent increase in total road deaths across all other user groups. Despite this, the number of riders injured fell, and by a larger percentage than any other road user type, with total casualties falling from 16,978 to 15,952. Enfield specials at Goodwood Royal Enfield have continued their recent run of stunning special builds, with a range of one-off machines taking to the hillclimb at last weekend's Goodwood Festival of Speed. Bikes heading up the narrow track included the retro sportsbike seen above, called Always Something. Originally a Shotgun 650, it was transformed by Icon Motorsports and made its debut back at Milan last…

EXCLUSIVE Just days after our visit to the Norton HQ in Solihull, sources captured these new images of the incoming V4 superbike, expected to be launched in Milan, this coming November. Seen in development on public roads, the images of the nose, and detailed side profile support claims that the next-generation machinery will be a departure from what we've come to associate with the brand in recent years. The most obvious change is at the front. Gone are the rounded, somewhat retro, curves in exchange for a more jagged and thoroughly modern take on sportsbike design. The thin twin LED headlights are akin to European rivals such as the Ducati Panigale V4, and BMW S1000RR, and while there are no side fairings in place, it's likely that we'll see some…

A UK-wide relay is making its way around the nation's roads, raising thousands for mental health support in the biking community. Organised by Relay Riders UK, the annual three-week event sees two teddy bear mascots passed bike-to-bike through over 380 pre-planned handovers. Running from June 28-July 19, the ride is supporting Mental Health Motorbike, with over £11,000 already raised. The route ends at The Old George Inn, Goole, after a final leg from Ladybower Reservoir in the Peak District. Among the two mascots used this time is a tribute bear named after teenager Kibi Wade (Barrett), who took her own life in 2024, aged just 16, after a period of bullying. ‘The biker community has rallied around’ Called ‘Kibi Bear’, it features the teenager's photo, and began its journey with…

What are you doing on Sunday, September 7? How about coming along to a free-to-attend event at the National Motorcycle Museum to celebrate 70 years of MCN! Join us at the Solihull venue for a day of festivities, including guest speakers, live motorcycle fire-ups, and on-site rider coaching from the teams at Rapid Training and the Sweet Lamb Adventure Bike Centre. There will also be Honda test rides. Enjoy a host of talks from the MCN team exploring the past 70 years of motorcycling and get up close and personal with this year's long-term test fleet – quizzing their custodians on their experiences so far. Not only this, but the live stage area will also play host to popular MCN columnists Allen Millyard and Jenny Tinmouth, with many more guests…

‘We're in a good place and here for the long term’ Triumph are looking to bounce back from a rocky winter with a fresh push across the UK, adding five new dealerships – despite operating in a marketplace still mired in one of the toughest trading periods in years. Figures from the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA) show June's new bike registrations were down 20.1% year-on-year. That caps off a turbulent first half of 2025 – but marks the strongest monthly performance so far this year, with tentative signs the industry might be on the road to recovery. Amid that fragility, Triumph have added showrooms in West Birmingham, Chester, Nottingham, and Plymouth, plus a major new store in Newcastle. The moves restore the firm's native dealer network to 47 locations –…

New law for online sellers Many consumers wrongly assume that buying through major online platforms offers the same protections as shopping in a physical store or from a trusted mail-order retailer. Sadly, that's not the case. These platforms don't vet sellers (or certainly not thoroughly enough) before allowing them to advertise, and even when something is wrong, they often look the other way. To avoid costs and scrutiny, rogue dealers increasingly use fake social media profiles to promote unsafe goods. Some impersonate legitimate firms or exploit loopholes to give the impression of being UK-based. Yet reports of misconduct are dismissed by the platforms on the basis that “community standards” haven't been breached. That could change. The Product Regulation and Metrology Bill is nearing Royal Assent, having passed all reading and…

WHAT'S NEW IN TECH Aprilia have introduced a new layer of sophistication to their RSV4 superbike and Tuono V4 super-naked for 2025, debuting predictive, corner-by-corner rider aids. A first for a production bike, the setup uses GPS data in combination with onboard sensors and predictive software algorithms to apply pre-set engine braking, traction control and wheelie control to individual corners on track automatically, mid-lap, with no rider input required. It's part of Aprilia's Race Pack and brings MotoGP-style circuit customisation adjustability to everyday riders for maximum trackday bragging rights. The system works through the brand's MIA app, which connects to the bike via Bluetooth or wi-fi and allows full configuration of corner-specific settings trackside using just a smartphone. At the system's core is a revised electronics suite centred around the…

With so much going on with filming, the recent Dave Day rideout, plus I've been away on holiday, the Norton Nemesis has been on the back burner a bit – but the record attempt is still going ahead. However, first I've got to sort the gearbox. It's got a slight issue which basically means I've got to pull the whole bike apart again. The problem is, it intermittently sticks in second gear. I think what's happened is that the custom made parts of the selector mechanism weren't quite made to the right spec – I've a suspicion the metal hardening isn't quite right, so what's happened is that as the parts rub together it's gradually worn away and made the tolerance open up, meaning that it doesn't quite engage. That…

£5000-£10,000 Yamaha RD350LC • 347cc, liquid-cooled, reed-valve two-stroke parallel-twin • 47bhp @ 8500rpm • 143kg (dry) The RD-LC is a foundation of modern motorcycling and an evergreen favourite. Their popularity rose, fell and rose again, but they never faded into total obsolescence and undesirability as most bikes do in the no-mans land between modernity and classic status. Owning, riding and racing LCs continued while the broader motorcycling community moved onto something else, the diehards and devotees quietly keeping alive the knowledge and cottage industry essential to keep early-80s two-strokes going. And then the rest of us remembered just how brilliant these glorious little bikes are… ‘In its day, Yamaha's whippy little thing was a giant-killer’ I say the rest of us: with 1987 on my birth certificate, I came into…

PRO-AM race series The LC didn't need much more credence as a high-performance tool for young head-bangers, but it got it anyway with the PRO-AM series in 1981. 24 mechanically-stock bikes on the same Dunlop tyres were handed out to young racers at every meeting by picking a key from a hat: add in a decent prize fund, and you had all the ingredients for wild racing. And that's exactly what you got: fearless young racers looking to make it big, with no machine advantage available, and a repair bill picked up by the manufacturer saw fierce, no-holds barred racing. Handlebars and limbs clashed, slipstreaming was essential and competitors went as far as gripping the pillion grab rails of bikes in front to pull themselves forward, and even tapping brake…

@motorcyclenews A big fan of long days in the saddle. Enjoys touring as much as getting down and dirty. I like riding off road. Or, more accurately on unpaved public roads (also known as BOATs or Byways Open to All Traffic). It's great fun, and can be simultaneously challenging and a nice day out in the countryside. But via a combination of woeful lack of ability, courage and my own underpowered bike on mega-capable tyres, I've never quite got the knack of using sliding to turn - a key skill to off-road progress. Royal Enfield's slide school (www.dirtcraft.co.uk) seemed to offer a chance to gain such experience, so I threw my dirt kit into a roll bag, Rok-Strapped it to the Bear's handy grab-rail and set off for Sittingbourne, 130…

£3000-£5000 (2007-2013) The Tiger 1050 marked a transition for Triumph as they moved their adventure bike away from any off-road pretence and instead made it purely road-focused. Armed with 17in wheels (the Tiger 955i had a 19in front), the bike boasts radial brakes, the wonderful 1050 motor and a sharp new look. Although quite a big and heavy bike, the Tiger is a brilliant all-rounder. BUYER BEWARE • Check out the Tiger 1050 Sport. As well as a single sided swingarm, it features more advanced tech. Prices start at £3500. • Ensure the 12,000-mile service has been completed as it involves a valve-clearance check and also stripping and regreasing the suspension linkages. • OE brake caliper pistons corrode and seize. Check for any pad-drag and ideally, replace them with stainless…

Anyone serious about off-road riding is likely to be familiar with spoke maintenance. It's something that needs to be checked regularly due to the bike being ridden over rough terrain having the effect of loosening the spokes through impact. Steering bearings and suspension linkages also require more frequent checks. Whether you're riding for fun or racing, the added stresses on the wheels and chassis demand more attention. This guide focuses on the traditional wheel design, where the spokes are laced from the hub to the inside of the rim. However, it's worth mentioning that there are alternative spoked wheel designs, commonly found on some BMW and Triumph adventure-style bikes. These often feature spokes mounted externally on the rim, which can allow for the installation of tubeless tyres. Maintenance can be…

Reporting from the 70th anniversary Southern 100 racing Davey Todd dominated the 70th anniversary Southern 100 road races on the Isle of Man, defeating TT rivals Dean Harrison and Michael Dunlop to win four races around the 4.25-mile Billown course. Racing under a blazing sun, the 2025 Superbike TT winner claimed victory in all three superbike clashes aboard his 8TEN Racing BMW, including the feature Solo championship race. He also added a Supersport win on the Milenco Padgetts Honda to his victory tally. In the feature event, both Todd and Harrison broke through the 117mph barrier to obliterate Harrison's lap record of 116.941mph set in 2022. Watched by injured teammate, Peter Hickman, Todd led from the drop of the flag before Harrison got his nose in front on lap four…

Back at the Billown course where he is the most successful Southern 100 race winner with 32 victories, Ian Lougher explained why he enjoyed an unbroken career on the Billown course that stretched from his debut in 1983 until his retirement from the event in 2013. The Welshman was first entered in the ‘83 Southern 100 by his sponsor, Ray Cowles, who thought it would be good preparation for his Manx Grand Prix debut. “It's fair to say the Southern 100 was my favourite road race meeting of the year,” the Welsh racer says. “Everyone at the Southern 100 club treats the riders with the respect that they deserve. There isn't anybody at the club who is trying to be top dog or anything, they all seem to gel with…

Reporting direct from the Donington Park round ‘What a shame’ was the communal phrase bandied around Donington Park as twins Sam and Alex Lowes missed out on good chances in their home races. The event promised so much, but there was little to shout about as the dust settled on Sunday afternoon. Everything needs to be put into perspective. At the start of the 2024 season, the exciting thing was two brothers about to race in a world championship together for the first time in their careers. Until then, their paths had not crossed. As Alex stepped into WSBK in 2014 as reigning BSB champion, Sam headed away from the paddock as World Supersport champion and into Grand Prix racing with Moto2 and later MotoGP. Fast-forward to 2025 and the…

Bringing you the latest news from the MotoGP paddock The Sachsenring was a case of what could have been for Aprilia. Marco Bezzecchi so nearly replicated his Assen feats of taking the fight to Ducati and being Marc Marquez's chief chaser. But a crash out of second place brought his excellent recent run to a halt. The Italian was majestic in Saturday's Sprint, coming within a lap of defeating the all-conquering Marquez in conditions that were previously the RS-GP's kryptonite. The 26-year-old was well placed on Sunday too, and in line for a second runner-up spot on the spin before he crashed out at Turn 1. Bezzecchi later revealed the reason for the fall stemmed from him backing off slightly having seen Fabio Di Giannantonio crash at the same spot…