Key Highlights
- Suzuki New Zealand introduces ADVs in the 2024 Suzuki International Racing Series.
- V-Strom 1050 and Strom 800 models to showcase their agility on tarmac.
- Ducati Multistrada and KTM Super Adventure series are also optimized for tarmac racing.
ADVs on the Rise in 2024
Adventure bikes are rapidly gaining popularity, not just for their off-road capabilities but also for their performance on paved roads. In reality, most ADV owners spend more time on asphalt than on rugged trails. Recognizing this trend, Suzuki New Zealand has decided to showcase the road-going potential of their adventure motorcycles by racing them on tarmac.
2024 Suzuki International Racing Series: New Tarmac Round
Suzuki has added a unique twist to their 2024 International Racing Series by including a road racing ADV round. The third round, set for December 26 at the Cemetery Circuit in Whanganui, will feature the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 and V-Strom 800 models deftly navigating the corners of the track much like sportsbikes.
Expected Modifications
While specifics remain under wraps, it’s anticipated that the participating ADVs will have significant modifications, especially in the tyres and suspension departments. This will ensure these "go-anywhere" bikes can compete at high speeds. The widely lauded V-Strom 650, known for its versatility, will notably be absent, as Suzuki aims to spotlight their "high volume" machines in this thrilling new race format.
2024 Suzuki V-Strom 1050 and Strom 800: Engine Specifications
| Model | V-Strom 1050 | V-Strom 800 |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | 90-degree V-twin | Parallel Twin |
| Displacement | 1,037cc | 776cc |
| Maximum Output | 107.4 horsepower | 83.1 horsepower |
| Peak Torque | 73.7 lb-ft | 57.5 lb-ft |
| Gearbox | 6-speed | 6-speed |
| Vehicle Weight | 534 lbs. | 492 lbs. |
Road-Ready ADVs: Ducati and KTM Leading the Pack
When it comes to road-oriented ADVs, Ducati and KTM are at the forefront. Ducati’s Multistrada lineup stands out as a superb mix of sportbike dynamics and touring capability. The Multistrada V4 RS, for example, boasts an impressive 180 horsepower and is marketed as a "superbike meets touring" hybrid.
KTM doesn’t lag behind, with robust models like the 1290 Super Adventure, 890 Adventure, and 790 Adventure showcasing excellent tarmac handling. These models offer impressive performance specs that can rival more traditional road bikes.
Ideal ADVs for Road Racing
Other notable adventure motorcycles suitable for tarmac racing include:
- Ducati Multistrada series
- KTM 1290 Super Adventure series
- KTM 890 Adventure series
- KTM 790 Adventure series
- Kawasaki Versys 1000 LT
- Honda NC750X
- Triumph Tiger 1200 and 900 series
These bikes are designed to offer a superb balance of touring comfort and sporty performance, making them perfect contestants for road racing series.
Potential for an American ADV Tarmac Racing Series
The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) has shown growing interest in ADVs, initiating a new series where near-stock ADVs compete on flat tracks. Given the increasing popularity of adventure bikes, it’s plausible to envision an American ADV Tarmac Race Series soon. It wouldn’t be surprising to see modified Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250s or even models from other major manufacturers participating in tarmac races at premier tracks such as Daytona International Speedway or Circuit of the Americas.
Bringing Adventure to the Tarmac: A New Racing Frontier
Overall, the incorporation of ADVs into tarmac racing holds a lot of promise. With manufacturers like Suzuki, Ducati, and KTM leading the charge, the realm of ADV road racing could expand significantly, offering a fresh and exhilarating approach to motorcycle racing.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
