Motorcycles

McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

You know things are getting serious when McLaren rolls-out the ‘1’ suffix. The origin story is, of course, the very first road car McLaren ever built, the F1. Designed by visionary Formula 1 aerodynamicist and engineer Gordon Murray, it arrived in 1992 and rendered all other supercars obsolete. The tiny, lightweight F1 embraced carbon-fibre material technology, adopted a radical centre seat driving position with two passengers set back and either side and was powered by a 6.1-litre V12 engine from BMW that might as well have been passed down directly from the Gods. Game-changer? That doesn’t even come close to describing its impact, even if at the time sales didn’t come easy… The P1 was very different. Rather than a unique side project from the Formula 1 team, it was instead a statement piece for McLaren Automotive, a new road car division still in its infancy. It arrived in 2013 and was a wild-eyed showstopper. It traded the long-legged gait and supple suspension of the F1 for a weaponized hybrid system capable of delivering 903bhp and huge blue flames from its drainpipe exhaust. In Race mode, it lowered by 2-inches and its massive concave rear wing extended into the sky. The P1 was all about aerodynamic downforce, crazed acceleration and a snorting, angry soundtrack that mixed venomous twin-turbocharged V8 with the manic whirr of electric motors. Not so much a car as a force of nature. And now there’s this: The W1. It’s a true successor to the P1 with a similar brief and, on the face of it, it evolves rather than radically reinvents McLaren’s vision for the ultimate hypercar. This is not a criticism. How could it be when the result is this dramatic and has such staggering, other-worldly potential? The W1 has 1258bhp delivered to the rear wheels. It’s capable of 0-124 mph in 5.8-seconds, the quarter mile in 9.6-seconds at 167 mph and produces 2205lbs of downforce at 174 mph. The active aerodynamics – particularly a rear wing that extends way out beyond the rear of the car – are pure performance art and deliver massive aerodynamic efficiency. The result, aside from looking extremely cool, is that the W1 is McLaren’s fastest road car around a racetrack. Ever. Their benchmark circuit is the breath-taking Handling Track at the Nardo proving ground in southern Italy, where the W1 beats their previous benchmark, the flyweight McLaren Senna, by three seconds per lap. Or “a lifetime” as they call it in racing. Maybe two lifetimes! Core to the W1’s performance is the new ‘Aerocell’ carbon fibre tub. With integrated seats and a raised footwell to allow for inboard pushrod-operated front suspension – which in turn gives air a clean path to the huge underbody diffuser – it’s light, stiff, space efficient and has been instrumental in McLaren realising a full ground-effect concept. Just like last year’s F1 cars, which were the fastest ever made. There is also an active front wing and the aforementioned complex rear wing dubbed ‘Active Long Tail’. All of which is very admirable. But the ‘anhedral’ or gullwing doors and the fantastically shirnked-wrapped feel to the minimalist, highly-focussed interior are a pretty good side effect. The W1 feels special. Those fixed seats are perhaps a shade more upright than expected, and the driving position is less obviously racecar than, for example, the Aston Martin Valhalla or Ferrari F80. However, once you’ve adjusted the pedals (they move on a slider) and the delicate, slim-rimmed and alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, there’s an overwhelming sense of purpose. The cabin is so tightly tailored and imparts a sense of lightness and agility before you so much as start the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which makes 916bhp all on its own and revs to 9200rpm. Reach up to a roof-mounted control panel to find the starter button. Maybe this fighter plane trope is a little corny, but somehow you feel thrilled rather than manipulated. The W1 has a sense of humour as well as all that motorsport-derived sophistication. There’s a short delay, but when the engine does fire it’s instant – as the high-powered hybrid system negates the need for an old-school starter motor. A sharp flare of revs tells you that this engine is hyper-responsive and angry. On some deep level your brain and body have been sent all the signals required to prepare for something new and intense. Ahead of us, an empty Mugello racetrack, so press and hold the blue button next to the red starter to select Race mode. The centre display graphic shows the W1’s transformation in real time as it lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear whilst simultaneously undocking all that active aero goodness. Race mode is not road legal and is geo-locked. You can show your friends and neighbours the aero dance, but it won’t allow you to select a gear to actually drive unless you’re at a circuit. Incidentally, the rocker switches either side of the display binnacle allow further options now: Toggle up the Handling control on the left for Race+ (for F1-spec super smooth tracks) or stick to Race for gnarlier ones. On the right toggle select ‘GP’ for sustained performance over a stint or ‘Sprint’ to unleash all 1258bhp for a time attack. There’s also a DRS and Boost function on the steering wheel. But I guarantee you won’t have the mental capacity to use them… Exit the pitlane, pin the throttle and W1 takes maybe a millisecond or two to gather its might (the gearing stretches to around 60mph in first, nearly 100mph in second, primarily to aid traction), but then lunges at the first turn with incredible ferocity. It instantly feels light, almost like inertia is no longer a thing. McLaren really does prize lightweight engineering, and at 3084lbs (dry) the W1 has a 278lbs advantage over the Ferrari F80. Plus, Ferrari uses figures for cars fitted with every single carbon fibre option. In reality, the gap is probably wider still. The impression of agility and stunning control continues as the track is unravelled at startling pace. The electric motor mounted to the side of the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is good for 342bhp and 324lb ft and it boosts any low rev lethargy the new flat-plane crank V8 might have (spoiler alert: It doesn’t appear to have any), so the W1 just feels massively, almost impossibly powerful at any revs. Even so, there’s real reward for wringing it out to 9200rpm and the power curve feels superheated but organic, too. In Race mode the steering – still hydraulically powered – has less assistance and it is noticeably heavier than other McLarens. However, that resistance is welcome as it gives you something to push against and imparts so much information about the front grip level. New Pirelli Trofeo RS tyres with a bigger front footprint than P1 or Senna really help. The front-end feels incredibly secure and the rear-axle follows with perfectly-aligned precision. The whole car feels super-stiff, completely locked into the surface and inspires confidence, but there’s an inherent agility and adjustability that means you’re quickly confident to push at its limits and really impose yourself on the chassis. It’s such a complex car but the driving experience is intuitive, and the driver feels a key contributor rather than just amazed (or terrified) observer, holding on for dear life. Every dynamic ingredient really is shockingly effective and yet has a subtlety and lightness of touch. From that delicious steering to the incredible brakes, the W1 just feels so mission-focussed, so hooked-up. Only the new 8-speed gearbox is a slightly disappointment. It’s fast and punchy, but after the scintillating energy of the Ferrari F80 ’box it feels competent rather than inspired. Other quibbles – it’s okay to quibble when the starting price is $2.1-million before tax and destination charge. Well, that new twin-turbocharged V8 sounds tightly wound and aggressive but if you have a P1 tucked in the garage you’ll miss the snorting, Darth Vader-style soundscape and all the drama that goes with it. Ferrari does this better, too. The F80 sounds deathly dull from the outside but is a riot of turbochargers, electric motors and all sorts of mechanical fury within the cockpit. Even so, the W1 is wildly entertaining on track, and the rear-drive configuration makes it more of a challenge and more satisfying than the F80 when chasing lap times or just sliding around for fun. In the Ferrari, you must second-guess what the front e-axle might do, whereas in the W1 it’s all on you. There are plenty of tools to help, including the ingenious Variable Drift Control, but somehow the W1 is more heroic. Or at least fools you into feeling more heroic – which is surely the point! On the road? Nimble, loaded with feel and sublime response. The ride is noticeably tougher than, say, a 750S but the control is ramped-up too, and with a bit more speed the whole car finds a delicious rhythm. Sport mode for the drivetrain brings some nice turbo whooshes and chirps, but the noise remains high-quality rather than extreme excitement. It is perhaps the one area the W1 feels just a little too tame. Of course, there’s nothing tame about the raw performance… which is genuinely shocking and literally hurts your neck muscles after a few hours. How McLaren has given the W1 such immense traction through just two driven wheels is beyond me. So, is it worthy of that ‘1’? I think so. Perhaps we won’t be talking about $25-million auction results for the W1 in 30 years from now, as we are for the F1. Perhaps it doesn’t quite have the amazing presence and jaw-dropping star quality of the simply gorgeous P1. But it is such an intense experience and the way it marries stunning track performance with delicate poise and entertainment on normal roads is something akin to magic. Maybe not ‘the one’ but definitely a searing, outrageous addition to McLaren’s fiercest family line. Just 399 W1’s will be built and they’re all sold. I’m not surprised at all. View All McLarens For Sale Images: McLaren Automotive

By Andrew Nabors – October 12, 2020

2021 Ducati 1100 Dark PRO Is A Sinister Scrambler

Engineers define darkness as an absence of photons. A space without light is the purest form of entropy, that is why Aristotle postulated that nature abhors a vacuum. Seeing an empty space within the market for small superbikes, the 2021 Ducati 100 Dark PRO is a sinister scrambler. The new color is "Dark Stealth". Both the tubular frame and the swingarm are black, and the bike is loaded with the latest in 2-wheel technology. 2021 Ducati e-Scrambler is Your Next Urban Cruiser With a bore of 3.8" and a stroke of 2.8", the latest Desmo delivers 86 horsepower and 65 lb-ft of torque. Bosch traction control and Brembo brakes will keep you safe, while the latest in LED lighting and displays make a bold styling statement. Priced at $14,750, it is time for you to experience Italian precision and style. Click the button to find our Ducati dealer near you. Browse Ducati For Sale

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By Andrew Nabors – October 02, 2020

Polaris Joins Forces With Zero Motorcycles To Develop Ele...

Vertical integration of EV companies is happening before our eyes. With Ford investing in Rivian and Porsche buying 20% of Rimac, the industry leaders are scrambling to develop new economies of scale. That's why it makes sense for Polaris to join forces with Zero Motorcycles to develop electric vehicles. This 10-year deal will allow the team at Zero to have deep pockets. Polaris is an industry leader with an impressive portfolio that includes their Rzr ATV, Indian Motorcycles, Slingshot 3-wheelers, along with government and special forces defense divisions. Their cooperation is the cornerstone of the Polaris “rEV’d up,” program to bring battery power to their various subsidiaries. CNBC host Jim Cramer had this to say: " width="680"> Sam Paschel, CEO of Zero Motorcycles said: “This revolutionary partnership is bringing together two incredibly talented teams aimed at dramatically expanding the electric options in Powersports. Our EV expertise and millions of miles of real-world, rubber-meets-the-road EV experience, coupled with Polaris’ broad product portfolio, scale, supply chain and market leadership, makes this a game-changer for every Powersports enthusiast.” Stay with us for all your 2-wheel news and have a great weekend. Browse Exotic Cars For Sale

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 23, 2020

BMW Motorrad Announces First Ever M-Division Super Bike D...

BMW has always dedicated its M-Division to creating high horsepower vehicles that are track-ready. The team over at BMW Motorrad has announced the first-ever M-Series super bike. The newest addition is produced using the BMW S 1000 RR as inspiration. The super bike is declared the M 1000 RR and will feature an upgraded competition package just as the M-Series cars do for added performance. The BMW M 1000 RR is designed using parts from leading aftermarket motorcycle parts manufacturers to ensure quality and performance. The standard super bike is equipped with 205 horsepower and 212 horsepower with the competition package. The BMW M 1000 RR is coming soon, but for now, click below to configure the first M-Series super bike. " width="680"> Configure The BMW M 1000 RR

By Andrew Nabors – July 23, 2020

2021 Ducati e-Scrambler is Your Next Urban Cruiser

Every time a new electric bike comes out, I look at my old Suzuki with a sad face. Now it's finally time to send her down the road. If you are looking for the best in Italian styling and innovation, you ought to check out the Ducati e-Scrambler which comes with a 250 watt Shimano E700 motor. Designed in collaboration with Thok Ebikes, it packs a 504 Wh battery, 11 speeds, Pirelli GT tires and 4-piston brakes. Buyers will also get a luggage rack, mudguards, turn signals, and a stand. It is available from any Ducati dealer, so click the button below to find one near you and stay with us for all your 2-wheel news. Browse Ducati For Sale

By Edward Jones – June 26, 2020

Ducati Superleggera V4 001/500 Delivered

Number 001/500 of the Ducati Superleggera V4 has been delivered in spectacular fashion. The motorcycle was delivered to its new owner, Filip Van Schil, who already has nine other Ducati bikes. Van Schil was invited to Ducati's Borgo Panigale factory for a tour and a special revealing of his new bike. It was actually Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati Motor Holding, who unveiled the new motorcycle to its new owner. Now that's a memory that Van Schil will never forget. Now, he gets to look forward to driving the only motorcycle in the world that's street-legal with a carbon fiber frame, swingarm and rims. See All Ducatis for Sale

By Andrew Nabors – June 18, 2020

Triumph Unveils 2020 Trekker GT E-Bike

If we have learned anything from electric cars, its that history repeats itself. Advances have allowed battery power to return to the cutting edge, and it also appeals to 2-wheelers. Triumph began as a bicycle builder over 118 years ago, and they are poised to shake up the industry again. The 2020 Triumph Trekker GT is 6.3 lbs of fun with 93 miles of range. Shimano developed the running gear to offer 44 lb-ft of torque from a 504 Wh battery. If you assume Triumph licensed their name to an E-bike startup, you would be dead wrong. The sleek design hides the EV gear while emphasizing a minimalist motif. Triumph Debuts James Bond Edition Scrambler 1200 Silver Ice and Jet Black cover the hydro-formed frame. Made of 6061 alloy, it is strong and light for a comfortable ride. Suspension is by RockShox with 2.5" of travel. Alex Volar 27.5" wheels ride on Shimano hubs and their Deore Shadow 10-speed rear. A Selle Royal Vivo saddle wont wear you out, and LED lighting will keep you safe. Learn More

By Edward Jones – June 15, 2020

New Ducati Hypermotard 950 RVE Version Revealed

Ducati has revealed a new motorcycle model in the Borgo Panigale family that sits between the Hypermotard 950 and Hypermotard 950 SP. Introducing, the new Ducati Hypermotard 950 RVE. This new model hs a "graffiti" livery that was inspired by the Hypermotard 950 Concept that was unveiled at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este in 2019. On top of the new livery, this model is further enhanced by the Ducati Quick Shift Up and Down EVO. Powering this motorcycle is the twin-cylinder 937 cc Testastretta 11° engine which provides 114 horsepower and 71 lb-ft of torque. With this power and striking design, the new Ducati Hypermotard 950 SVE is set to be a blast to ride. It will be available in Ducati dealers starting in July with an MSRP of $14,195. You can configure your own by clicking the button below. View Configurator

By Edward Jones – May 22, 2020

Triumph Debuts James Bond Edition Scrambler 1200

Triumph is celebrating the upcoming James Bond film, No Time to Die, with the new limited-edition Scrambler 1200 Bond Edition motorcycle. This new motorcycle will be limited to just 250 examples worldwide, making it an instant rarity. But what exactly is this bike? It starts with the 007 bodywork that's been painted primarily black to mimic the bike ridden by Bond in the upcoming film. It also features 007-branding to signify the bike's inspiration. Triumph has also based this bike on the top-spec Scrambler Xe, meaning it has all of the performance Bond would need in a car chase. The engine pushes our 89 horsepower and peak torque of 81.1 lb-ft. Rider will be able to see just how fast this engine is taking them via the full-color TFT instruments with a special 007 startup screen. One more very special feature that just has to be mentioned are the heated grips that will ensure your hands stay warm no matter the temperature. You can learn more about this bike by clicking the button below but it should be mentioned that all 250 examples have been sold. Learn More Source: Triump

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By Edward Jones – May 21, 2020

Ducati Details the Panigale V4's Racing Accessories Package

Owners of the Ducati Panigale V4 that are wanting a bit more performance when they're on the track ought to check out the Racing Accessories packages. This package was designed by the Ducati Design Center with maximum performance in mind. To do this, the accessory package lightens the weight of the bike as well as gives it a much more enhanced design. The components in this package include the complete exhaust system, lower and upper racing fairings, oversized headlight fairing, swingarm cover, carbon protection for generator cover, mirror hole covers, license plate holder removal set, frame cover set, carbon chain guard, brake lever protection, brake lever protection adapter, side stickers for the tank. Yeah, there's a lot. You can see each of the components in the gallery down below. You can also check out the package for yourself through Ducati's configurator for the Panigale V4 by clicking the button below. Configure Your Panigale V4

By Edward Jones – May 06, 2020

Confederate Motorcycles Announces Three New Motorcycle Mo...

Confederate Motorcycles has just announced three new motorcycle models, bringing their total lineup up to six new models that are currently being offered. Each of these new models will be built at Confederate's new facility in Birmingham, Alabama. this includes the new Hellcat, Hellcat Speedster, F-117 Fighter, P-51 Combat Fighter, FA-13 Combat Bomber and Wraith. If you happen to live near Birmingham, each of these new motorcycles will be on full display in the showroom, alongside certified pre-owned Confederate bikes. “We are currently building the next run of bikes that are each available with a number of customer-selectable options,” says Ernest Lee, owner of Confederate Motorcycles. "Confederate is a partnership of vendors manufacturing the parts for our bikes and the Confederate team necessary to design, build and sell these one of a kind masterpieces. After a short pause, we are now continuing to design new and exciting Confederate motorcycles; building innovative and original bikes that draw crowds everywhere they ride.” If you're interested, they're currently taking orders on the Hellcat and Hellcat Speedster with deliveries beginning in July. Because these bikes are built upon the Harley-Davidson FDXR frame, they will also be the first Confederate Motorcycles to be homologated for worldwide delivery. They also announced that they will continue manufacturing the F-117 Fighter, P-51 Combat Fighter and FA-13 Combat bikes at the new facility. As for the newly-designed Wraith, they will begin building it at the Birmingham facility as well. You can learn more about each of these motorcycles by scrolling down below or by visiting Confederate.com by clicking the button below. Visit Confederate.com The New Hellcat "The Confederate Hellcat is the first of two motorcycles built with the Milwaukee Eight 117 cubic inch Screaming Eagle Engine. Featuring 3M carbon fiber wrapped tank, front cowl, engine spoiler and Confederate CNC seat frame carved from solid billet blocks of military-grade aluminum like the 2014 and 2015 Hellcat Speedster before it." MSRP: $45,000 The Hellcat Speedster "The Hellcat Speedster is the second 2020 Confederate Motorcycle built on the Harley Davidson FDXR frame. Like our Confederate P-51 before it, the tank, swing-arm, front cowl, forks seat, and rear are carved from solid billet blocks of military-grade aluminum." MSRP: $75,000 F-117 Fighter "The F-117 Fighter is a limited production American performance street machine. Each F-117 Fighter is hand-built, custom-tailored to fit, with personalized and curated details and finish, making every motorcycle unique to its new owner." MSRP: $90,000 P-51 Combat Fighter "The P-51 is the second generation of Fighters from Confederate. CNC machined 6061 and 7075 aircraft-grade aluminum and carbon fiber create the unique lines of this race-inspired 132 cubic inch motorcycle." MSRP: $110,000 FA-13 Combat Bomber "The limited-production military-spec anodized FA-13 Combat Bomber is Fighter is a limited production American performance street bike." MSRP: $155,000 The New Wraith "Like it's P-51 Combat Fighter predecessor, the Confederate Wraith is carved entirely from solid billet blocks of military-grade aluminum, resulting in the most robust, lightweight, fatigue-resistant motorcycle possible." MSRP: $155,000

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