Browsing: Technology

General Motors is working on a novel two-stroke concept designed to avoid the classic weaknesses of this type of engine. A recently published patent application shows how an electronically controlled valve system could reduce emissions and improve efficiency and durability.

In the US, a new recall affects numerous Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R models from 2024 to 2026. According to the manufacturer, there is a risk of sudden loss of power, which is why affected motorcycles should no longer be ridden.

Tesla wants to introduce its Full Self-Driving system in Europe as quickly as possible, but serious accidents involving motorcycles are raising questions about safety. The Dutch registration authority RDW is demanding that the protection of motorcyclists be a priority—only then can approval be granted.

Aprilia is conducting a recall campaign in 2025 for several models in the RS and Tuono series. The recall affects the left handlebar, which does not comply with current EU regulations.

In two Morbidelli models, insufficiently strong weld seams on the frame can lead to dangerous damage. The affected motorcycles are being recalled throughout Europe.

Following the recall campaign in spring 2025 for the CB 650 R and CBR 650 R, the next measure is now being implemented. This time, it affects the Honda CB 1000 Hornet and Honda CB 1000 SP Hornet from the 2025 model year. These models may also experience loose gear shifting. According to Honda, under certain conditions, the shift linkage pivot pin may lose its preload and, in the worst case, come loose.

MV Agusta is working on a new engine concept that differs significantly from classic designs. The so-called Cinque Cilindri combines five cylinders in a compact arrangement reminiscent of VR engines, but without adopting their typical V-structure. The concept was first unveiled at EICMA and subsequently supplemented with further information.

In model year 2024, KTM AG is recalling several KTM and Husqvarna motorcycles worldwide. Specifically, this affects the Duke 125, 390, and 990 models, as well as the Husqvarna Svartpilen and Vitpilen 125 and 401 models. The recall is a preventive measure to replace the fuel cap sealing ring.

MV Agusta presented a new type of engine at EICMA, called the Cinque Cilindri. The model represents a new chapter in the brand’s engine development. The engine features five cylinders, three camshafts, and electrically powered auxiliary units. With this development, MV Agusta is moving away from previous speed-oriented drive concepts and pursuing the goal of combining technological fascination with everyday practicality.

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

MV Agusta presented a new type of engine at EICMA, called the Cinque Cilindri. The model represents a new chapter in the brand’s engine development. The engine features five cylinders, three camshafts, and electrically powered auxiliary units. With this development, MV Agusta is moving away from previous speed-oriented drive concepts and pursuing the goal of combining technological fascination with everyday practicality.

Stricter emissions regulations, increasing efficiency requirements, and the desire for more power from smaller engines are presenting motorcycle manufacturers with new challenges. Supercharging systems such as turbochargers, compressors, or electric compressors could therefore be making a comeback in motorcycle construction. While such technologies have long been established in cars, they are only gradually finding their way into motorcycles. Models such as the upcoming Honda V3R with an electric compressor, the compressor bikes already available from Kawasaki, and innovative hybrid approaches show that development is gaining momentum. But what systems are available, how do they work, and what impact do they have on handling, sound, and everyday usability?

According to its own statements, 24M, a US company based in Massachusetts, has developed innovative battery technology that has the potential to fundamentally change electric mobility. The technology promises not only a significantly higher range of up to 1,000 miles (approx. 1,609 km), but also lower costs, increased safety, and flexible applications—including for electric motorcycles.

At the Japan Mobility Show 2025, Suzuki is showcasing a wide range of concepts and studies, ranging from alternative drive systems to an anniversary model of the GSX-R1000R. The manufacturer is thus demonstrating its strategy of offering both traditional sports motorcycles and modern solutions for sustainable mobility.

Just under ten years after entering MotoGP, KTM has taken another significant step in its motorsport history. The new 850cc engine concept for the 2027 season was tested on the test bench for the first time in Mattighofen, Austria. The reason for this is the upcoming technical regulations that will apply in the premier class from 2027.

Yamaha has filed a patent that addresses a well-known problem with electric motorcycles: many motorcyclists find the switch to electric drive less exciting because they miss the typical engine noise and vibrations of a combustion engine. A novel technical solution is intended to compensate for this disadvantage.

The Chinese brand Benda is attracting increasing attention with its unusual engine configurations. While the company has only recently entered the US market, where it mainly offers 300cc to 500cc V2 models, Benda is showing much more innovation on its domestic market. At the recent CIMAMotor trade fair, Benda presented not only a radical hybrid concept with a 250cc boxer engine, but also a completely newly developed inline six-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1700cc.

TVS Motor has acquired the renowned Italian development company Engines Engineering (EE) and will use the company as a global center of excellence (CoE) for design and development in the future. The aim is to further expand its own expertise in the field of modern vehicle technologies and in the development of premium and electric motorcycles.

In the world of motorcycles, the return of forced induction is a rare event. After Kawasaki set a milestone with the Ninja H2, things remained quiet on the supercharger front for a long time. While the Ninja H2R continued to be considered the most powerful production motorcycle with a supercharger, the field seemed to be left to other manufacturers. However, recent technological changes have brought movement to the scene: Honda introduced a fully electric supercharger with the V3R, and Yamaha developed its own solution with the E-Turbo. Now KTM is also entering the stage – with a novel, electrically assisted supercharger system that combines elements of both technologies and, according to the patent, is intended to offer a middle ground between classic superchargers and modern electric drives.

With a novel approach to extending the range of electric motorcycles, KTM is pursuing a solution that aims to enable greater flexibility and everyday usability. Based on current patent applications, the Austrian manufacturer is working on a modular system that can be attached to the rear of the motorcycle like a top case. Depending on the variant, the compact additional box will contain either a mini combustion engine, a fuel cell, or additional batteries.

Ducati is currently conducting a worldwide recall for all Panigale V4 and Streetfighter V4 models with single-sided swingarms. All models built between 2018 and 2025 are affected – essentially all models since the introduction of these series. The reason for the recall is the rear axle, which is being replaced with a new version as a precautionary measure. Around 7,000 vehicles are affected in Germany and more than 10,000 in the USA.