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 Jordan Aquistapace – February 10, 2022

Triumph Reveals The All-Electric TE-1 Prototype Motorcycle

EV technology makes its way into a two-wheel world. The growing market for electric transportation is quickly shifting from automotive manufacturing into other areas and industries that find similar benefits making the switch. The two-wheel specialists at Triumph Motorcycles are proud to enter phase three of its Project Triumph TE-1, which translates to revealing its first electric motorcycle prototype. The UK-based motorcycle brand is passionate about blending sportbike design with an efficient electric performance, ultimately creating UK electric motorcycle capabilities. The frame design of the TE-1 features a futuristic street fighter-style that incorporates inspiration from the iconic Street Triple-R model. MUST-READ: Ducati Unveils The All-New DesertX Motorcycle Along with relying on the historic craftsmanship from Triumph, Project Triumph TE-1 also enlists help from industry leaders like Ohlins and Brembo. Williams Advanced Engineering is responsible for the final iteration of the prototype WAE battery pack. The high-tech platform incorporates dedicated cell packaging for optimum center of gravity, vehicle control unit, DC-DC converter, integrated cooling, charge port, and styled carbon covers. Although specs and pricing have yet to be released, the all-new Project Triumph TE-1 is sure to be an anticipated release for any rider or two-wheel enthusiasts. Click the link below to view all current Triumph models for sale on duPont REGISTRY. Check back into duPont REGISTRY Daily for more luxury gear news and motorcycle releases. View All Triumph For Sale Source: Triumph Motorcycles

By Tyler Rampersaud – December 15, 2021

Harley-Davidson's LiveWire to Hit NYSE After Merger

Harley-Davidson’s electric bike division is coming to the NYSE as LVW. There’s no doubt that electric vehicles are what’s in store for the future as even Harley-Davidson, known the world over for its signature engine sound has launched LiveWire, a division of their brand that sells electric bikes with the look of a Harley and the drivetrain of the future. Harley-Davidson has announced that LiveWire will be publicly traded after a merger with AEA-Bridges Impact Corp., an acquisition company that specializes in brands geared toward sustainability. The brand will be traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol LVW. With up to nearly 150 miles of potential battery range, easy charging, instant power delivery, and a starting price of under $30,000, the LiveWire motorcycle is sure to be a success, and if you’re interested in investigating what Harley-Davidson claim is the industry leader in electric motorcycle companies, the New York Stock Exchange is where to look to do so. Source: Harley-Davidson

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 10, 2021

Ducati Unveils The All-New DesertX Motorcycle

Ducati's new DesertX is off-road ready for any two wheel adventurist. When it comes to providing a one-of-a-kind two-wheel riding experience, Ducati aims to offer a wide selection of motorcycles that cater to any riding level and terrain. While Ducati continues to dominate on circuits around the world, the brand is heading to the dunes to announce the newest addition to its fleet. Ducati is proud to present the all-new DesertX motorcycle featuring a modern off-road design that includes state-of-the-art technology and performance. With a modest livery, Ducati blends a mix of iconic brand colors to highlight the adventurous styling of the DesertX. The new chassis is the first modern Ducati motorcycle that uses a 21-inch front wheel and an 18-inch rear for off-road capabilities. MUST-READ: Ducati Unveils The All-New Streetfighter V4 SP The DesertX is equipped with the latest evolution of Ducati’s water-cooled 937cc Desmodromic 11° Testastretta engine with 110-horsepower, which harnesses the power and torque needed to safely navigate through traitorous conditions. Along with updated performance, the technology incorporated into the DesertX build features state-of-the-art assistance systems for safe and more relaxing journeys. The versatility is also reflected in the Riding modes: up to six options, two of which are specifically dedicated to the off-road riding experience. The motorcycle’s complete Full LED lighting system equipment is of the highest level, with a double-front headlight that uses two bi-function modules for excellent visibility. The all-new Ducati DesertX motorcycle is ready to hit the trails and is available through an authorized dealer starting at $16,795. View all of the current Ducati models for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Ducati For Sale Source: Ducati

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 24, 2021

Brixton Motorcycles Announces The All-New Crossfire 125

Motorcycles nowadays take on their own look and feel, with manufacturers incorporating aspects of different riding styles to create a one-of-a-kind experience. The two-wheel experts at Brixton Motorcycles know this idea all too well, as they feature unique vintage and modern chassis designs in its fleet of motorcycles. Brixton Motorcycles is proud to present the Crossfire 125 as its newest addition to the lineup. The Brixton Crossfire 125 design reimagines the traditional styling of a cafe racer with added modern performance to further highlight its functionality as a daily rider. MUST-READ: DAB Motors x Burberry Release A $34,000 Limited-Edition E-Motorcycle Brixton Motorcycles offers the new chassis in a Charley Brown Matt and Bullet Silver configuration, with the ability to choose a street or off-road tire setup. The motorcycle features a 125cc 1-cylinder 4-stroke water-cooled engine that is managed by a 6-speed manual transmission, making it the perfect option for any riding experience. Although pricing and availability have yet to be announced, the all-new Brixton Crossfire 125 motorcycle is set to hit roads soon. Check back into duPont REGISTRY Daily for more luxury motorcycle news and releases. Source: Brixton Motorcycles

By Edward Jones – November 19, 2021

“No Limits – No Regrets”: A Thrilling Movie About a World...

Presented by Y Chrome Customs LLC - The “No Limits – No Regrets” (NLNR) movie opens with Axe’s high-speed ride on the back roads in the dark of early morning on his 2010 BMW S1000RR (S1K) as he provides a little background on his adrenaline addiction. The next few scenes give a little insight to his background including his childhood Charlie Brown racetrack, “Dukes of Hazzard” driving tips, and when he started building custom choppers and nurtured his love for the two-wheeled machines. Axe then goes through the history of his past cars and motorcycles as well as his current stable, which includes the S1K, a Sportster, and a Cadillac CTS-V coupe. He can’t leave anything stock, so he describes some of the modifications on his vehicles ranging from custom paint to advanced electronics. The former bike builder also begins fabricating one last chopper for himself and shows the build process to make the bike just the way he wants it. While preparing for the cross-country run, he finishes the chopper, which he rides to Daytona Beach for Biketoberfest. No sooner than returning to Texas, he takes the S1K to the Texas Mile and blasts 167 mph down a runway for his first event. The S1K is modified for better mileage, additional fuel storage, radar detection, and a thermal vision system before shipping it to San Diego. Shortly after squeezing into the leathers, Axe quickly adapts to lane splitting to avoid traffic delays. The ride is not without its challenges with both technical and biological abuse on the man and his machine. Eventually, he rips through Jacksonville and rolls onto the beach completely depleted. Barely two hours of sleep later, he wakes and rides his trusty steed back to the finish line in the sunrise to reflect on his accomplishment. He officially became the best in the world at what he loves by breaking the record with a time of 33 hours and 10 minutes from beach to beach across America. The movie also carries a deeper look into the human condition with inspirational elements of watching one person achieve a goal while overcoming health and other challenges to live life to the hilt. Learn More

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 16, 2021

DAB Motors x Burberry Release A $34,000 Limited-Edition E...

The DAB Motors Concept-E RS just got a makeover by Burberry. As the world continues to find similarities between the motorsport industry and the fashion world, special collaboration projects spark the interest of some of the world’s most iconic brands. The luxury fashion professionals at Burberry are proud to announce its newest collaboration with French motorcycle manufacturer DAB Motors. The two industry leaders share the same concept of categorizing motorcycles as a fashion accessory, which is the reason for the all-new DAB Motors Concept-E RS Burberry Edition. The Concept-E RS Burberry Edition takes shape as a one-of-a-kind electric motorcycle that features hints of traditional Burberry design. The aesthetically pleasing shape of the chassis is available in two unique Burberry liveries, giving each client the choice of a Metallic Grey or Midnight Blue exterior. Along with its design, the DAB Motors Concept-E RS also includes a custom seat that is redesigned using the Burberry monogram pattern on genuine black leather. Equipped with a 10kW motor and 51.8V Li-ion battery, the Concept-E RS Burberry is the legal equivalent to a 125cc and is easily driven after a few hours of training. The Concept-E RS Burberry Edition has been fitted with a Beringer braking system and Öhlins custom suspension system, both of which are high-end references in their field. The all-new DAB Motors Concept-E RS Burberry Edition is limited to only 20 chassis and is available through an authorized dealer for $34,000. Source: DAB Motors

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 15, 2021

Ducati Unveils The All-New Streetfighter V4 SP

The new Streetfighter V4 SP is the most adrenaline-pumping naked bike to ever roll its wheels off the production line in Borgo Panigale. When it comes to high-performance motorcycles developed to crush lap times and look extremely good while doing it, Ducati stands tall as an industry leader with its line of Italian superbikes. Ducati is proud to announce its newest addition to its fleet, the all-new Streetfighter V4 SP. The Ducati Streetfighter V4 SP is a sports production model that boasts a new lightweight design that adds to the performance-focused mentality of the Italian brand. The V4 SP features an aggressive new exterior featuring its ‘Winter Test’ livery that Centro Stile Ducati created by taking inspiration from the chassis that race during Moto GP and SBK pre-testing. The weight savings start with a new set of carbon rims that take way 6.6-pounds and reduce the moment of inertia while racing at top speeds on the track. The Ducati Streetfighter V4 SP makes all of its 208-horsepower from the 1,103cc Desmosedici Stradale engine, which is managed by a six-speed gearbox and an STM-EVO SBK dry clutch to ensure an effective anti-hopping function. Ducati complements its new look and performance with a track feel provided from an Ohlins Smart EC suspension and Brembo Stylema R brake system. The all-new Ducati Streetfighter V4 SP is currently available through an authorized dealer starting at $35,500. View all of the current Ducati inventory for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Ducati For Sale Source: Ducati

By Edward Jones – November 08, 2021

New BMW R 18 "The Wal" by Shinya Kimura Unveiled

This BMW R 18 is unlike any of its kind. The third customizer to add an example into the "SoulFuel" series, a collaboration between BMW Motorrad and customizers, is Shinya Kimura. While he has typically worked on more classically-styled motorcycles, he has been working on more modern examples, including the BMW R 18 that he created. His custom R 18 is named "The Wal" and it's a motorcycle that Kimura designed to better suit himself and his riding preferences. The Wal features a more front-facing design with a larger and completely custom fuel tank, footrests that have been moved back by two inches. lowered handlebar, a new seat that was handmade by BACKDROP Leathers, coarsely textured paintwork, and much more. The result is a motorcycle that Kimura believes better suits his style. "What I like best about my version of the R 18 is that I was able to change the style and seating position to my liking without destroying the excellent original functionality of the R 18," says Kimura. "But drastically changing the seating position and adding my own style and taste was a big challenge in my interpretation of the BMW Heritage. Besides, all these computerized systems and wiring were quite new to me and I learned a lot." View All Motorcycles For Sale Source: BMW

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 21, 2021

Triumph Announces A Limited-Edition Tiger 900 Bond Editio...

Each of these stunning motorcycles are individually numbered and come with a signed certificate of authenticity. The iconic James Bond movie series highlights the abilities of 007 when placed in any scenario, whether it’s on four wheels or even two. Triumph is celebrating its partnership with the brand and the forthcoming 25th James Bond film with a commemorative motorcycle. The new Triumph Tiger 900 Bond Edition will not only be seen on the big screen but also on public roads for motorcycle enthusiasts. Tying into the stealth-like presence of James Bond, the Tiger 900 features a Matte Sapphire Black paint scheme with gold ‘007’ branded logos to signify the limited-edition release. The Triumph Tiger 900 Bond Edition is powered by an 888cc liquid-cooled 3-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox. Alongside the appropriate power, the Bond Edition motorcycle includes premium additions like an additional pair of Michelin Anakee Wild off-road tires, Arrow Silencer, heated seat, and a bespoke 007 start-up screen. The new Triumph Tiger 900 Bond Edition is limited to just 250 motorcycles to celebrate the iconic British partnership between James Bond and Triumph. View all Triumph motorcycles available on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Triumph Motorcycles For Sale Media/Information Source: Triumph

By Jordan Aquistapace – July 14, 2021

Harley-Davidson Releases The All-New 2021 Sportster S

Take on the open road with 1250cc's of Harley-Davidson power. Harley-Davidson is best known for incorporating top-notch design, performance, and comfort into its fleet of motorcycles made for riders of all levels. While time passes and technology makes its way into the industry, Harley-Davidson continues to sector its production line to creating classic-styled chassis with big engines. Harley-Davidson is proud to announce the newest addition to the fleet, the all-new 2021 Sportster S. The new model is designed to deliver a riding experience rooted in the thrill of unleashing extraordinary power in the act of dynamic acceleration, tempered by invisible technology. Starting with its design, the new Harley-Davidson is presented in a modern vision on a classic, from the low set handlebars to the elongated sweeping gas tank. The 2021 Sportster S not only provides a sense of adrenaline but also comfort from the large-scale seat and forgiving suspension system. The heart of the beast takes form as Harley-Davidson’s Revolution® Max 1250T engine, which produces 121-horsepower and 94 ft-lb of torque. All of the power produced by the Sportster S is managed by the brand’s coveted 6-speed transmission. Stoplight to stoplight, corner to corner – the all-new 2021 Harley-Davidson Sportster S is the right choice for any rider looking to enjoy the open road with one of the most iconic motorcycle brands in the world. Check out all of the Harley-Davidson motorcycles available on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Harley Davidson For Sale Media/Information Source: Harley-Davidson

Motorcycles

duPont REGISTRY News

duPont REGISTRY Group

Support

Subscribe