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 – April 27, 2021

The 2021 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Revival Kicks Off ...

As if the Harley-Davidson brand wasn’t already considered to be an icon in itself, they are now with the announcement of The Icons Collection. Designed to be a signature line of iconic rides for modern times, the Icons Collection will celebrate Harley-Davidson’s signature colors, designs, and parts, along with the latest technology. The first motorcycle inducted into the Icons Collection is the new 2021 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Revival, a modern reproduction of the original chassis made in 1969. Updated with current technology, the Electra Glide Revival features Reflex Defensive Rider Systems and Apple CarPlay. Each motorcycle is fitted with Harley-Davidson’s Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine, capable of producing 97-horsepower and a classic exhaust note. The 2021 Electra Glide Revival is the first of Harley-Davidson’s Icons Collection and is limited to 1,500 units globally. The all-new 2021 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide is currently available through an authorized dealership starting at $29,199. Check back in for more future releases from the Harley-Davidson Icons Collection. Harley-Davidson For more News, Check out The Best Super Affordable Exotics You Can Buy Today

By Edward Jones – April 13, 2021

Combat Motors Begins Production on All-New Wraith Motorcycle

Presented by Combat Motors - Combat Motors has announced its all-new Flagship model; the all-new 2021 Combat Wraith. Like the original Wraith which debuted in 2008, pushing the limits of American motorcycle manufacturing technology was the only place to start for such an example of raw art-in-motion. Inspired by the purist’s desire to not only stand out but to be liberated to forge one’s own path in a world full of followers. This second-generation Combat Wraith rides on the tried & true CX4 architecture with a brute force, 2.2 Liter big-block V-twin engine by S&S Cycle. The engine is an integral part of the bike’s construction acting as a stressed member, unifying and transferring as much unadulterated power to the ground as possible through the BST carbon fiber wheels to the Pirelli tread. The iconically shaped structural fuel tank is CNC 5-Axis machined from aircraft-grade 6061 aluminum. Utilizing this style of machining allowed Combat to increase the bike’s fuel capacity to 4.5 gallons and provide the longest ride possible between refueling. Visit Combat Motors' Website Combat Motors has reinstated the monocoque structure that was originally developed for the company's P-51 Combat Fighter while increasing airflow and efficiency through the redesigned structural air-box. Visibility of the twin-plate throttle-body is still made possible through a restyled oval glass just ahead of the fuel cap making it a crowning detail to the reimagined design of the original Wraith. This, along with the widely recognized visible cam timing cover and fuel tank windows, gives the owner and any fortunate spectator a full view of as many of the internal workings of this motorcycle. Combat Motors, continuing in the spirit of its former nomenclature, offers yet another industry first to the market. The new Combat Wraith will be built with interlinked forward and rear foot controls, offering its pilot the best of both worlds for quick trips across town or long rides up the coast. Each new motorcycle produced by the company will also soon be constructed in the Birmingham, Alabama facility via live, high-definition streaming video. Once the primary components are staged and ready, each client will have the opportunity to watch the step-by-step process of their own creation being constructed. One motorcycle at a time, Combat’s experienced master builder, Jason Reddick, will hand-assemble each motorcycle in full view of its future owner. A time-lapse video showcasing the birth of the new motorcycle will then become part of the delivery package, giving each new owner an unparalleled ownership experience. The girder front suspension bears a nod to the past as well, as the LED light blade carbon housing resembles the arched signature appearance of the original Wraith. Adding function to this iconic form, solid carbon fiber panels guide air directly into the triangular air intake portals. Thoughtful integration and styling elevate the original 5-axis CNC machined aircraft grade 6061 aluminum girders from the P-51 Combat Fighter to the Wraith’s elegant carbon fiber detailing. No more than twenty-one Wraiths will be built in either raw machined aluminum or as a Knight Wraith with a black anodized finish. The first new Knight Wraith is currently being built for Ernest Lee, owner of Combat Motors, who plans to ride the new motorcycle on a cross-country trip following Interstate 10 from Jacksonville, Florida to Malibu, California. Current owners of the company's motorcycles are invited to ride either the entire length of the trip or individual legs with Ernest as he brings the next generation Combat Wraith west for its official debut later this year. Visit CombatMotors.com

By Andrew Nabors – March 23, 2021

Triumph & Williams Unveil TE-1 Powertrain

The future of English motorcycles is electric, and today we get a glimpse of it. Triumph and Williams have unveiled the TE-1 electric powertrain that will eventually underpin the next generation of motorcycles. This milestone marks the completion of Phase 2 of project TE-1, the as-yet-unnamed future flagship of the brand. This cornerstone is structural and light while offering a maximum output of 170 kW with a nominal rating of 90 kW. Voltage is rated at 360 with a charge time of 20 minutes to reach 80%. Much of the development costs have been subsidized by the Office for Zero-Emission Vehicles through Innovate UK. Phase 3 and 4 will see the project to completion and you can follow the evolution here with us. Image (C) Triumph Motorcycles & Williams Advanced Engineering

Ducati Scrambler FastHouse 083 UC233981 Low

By Andrew Nabors – March 11, 2021

Ducati Unleashes the Desert Sled Fasthouse

Jordan Graham rode his Scrambler to first place last year in the Mint 400. To celebrate his historic victory, Ducati has unleashed the Desert Sled Fasthouse. This epic collaboration between the brands is limited to 800 examples, each finished in black and grey. The frame of each one carries its unique production number below the 803cc engine. You will have many of the same parts found on the winning bike, including the Kayaba suspension, homologated grille, and skid plate. Pirelli Scorpions dig into the dirt while remaining refined on the street. This new Scrambler is also joined by a new collection of apparel from Fasthouse that includes t-shirts, a cap, and a jacket to match. What desert is calling your name? Shop Ducati Images (C) Ducati

MY21 DUCATI MONSTER PLUS 34 UC214661 High

By Andrew Nabors – March 05, 2021

Ducati Unveils New Monster Lineup

Their most successful model is lighter and faster, so we're excited that Ducati has unveiled a new Monster lineup. Addressing every possible complaint about the 821 series, the dry weight starts at only 366 lbs. Nominal saddle height is 32.2", but a lowering kit and an optional low saddle can drop it to only 30". The saddle is now closer to the forks, and they added 7* to the steering angle. Steering is now laid back at 36 degrees for more comfort and response. Three riding modes have unique torque curves for Sport, Urban, and Touring. Your phone can be tucked away thanks to Ducati Multimedia Bluetooth and charged from the USB under the saddle. The pièce de résistance is a 937cc desmo. It delivers 111 horsepower and 69 lb-ft of torque nearly uninterrupted thanks to Ducati QuickShift. They have delivered over 350,000 examples since the first Monster arrived in '93, and our dealers have prices that won't scare you. Click the button below and ride safe. Shop Ducati Images (C) Ducati Motor Holding SpA

By Andrew Nabors – February 24, 2021

2021 Triumph Bonneville Is Lighter, Leaner, & More Agile

An American name and English precision combine to make the 2021 Triumph Bonneville lighter, leaner & more agile. A new 1,200 sits atop the lineup, allowing the T120 to lose 15 lbs and lower the center of weight. Making 77 lb-ft at only 3,500 rpm will keep you happy in the corners, and bigger Brembos will keep you safe. A new torque-assist clutch prevents fatigue in traffic, and you can choose from multiple riding modes, and heated grips are just one of the 116 factory options. This year's lineup also includes the T100, Street Twin, and a Street Twin Gold Line limited edition. The Speedmaster and Bobber have also evolved with these improvements, so stay with us for all your motorcycle news. Triumph For Sale Images (C) Triumph Motorcycles

By Andrew Nabors – February 22, 2021

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Introduced By Jason Momoa

Your adventure is no longer limited to the pavement. The Harley-Davidson Pan-America 1250 has been introduced by Jason Momoa as their first adventure model. Utility meets power as this big V-twin sends 150 horsepower to the ground without being top-heavy. Starting at $17,319, this rugged machine uses the crankcase as a stressed part of the frame. The Revolution Max V-Twin is all-new and it makes 94 lb-ft of torque thanks to VVT on both cams. With a 13:1 compression ratio, you will make the most of a 30-degree crank angle. It has the same internal balance of a 90-degree engine with the power of a 60-degree block. Perhaps the best feature is standard on the Pan America 1250 Special. When coming to a stop, the suspension lowers to give your feet more stability. Once moving it rises again to give you a better riding position. It's time to take a trail less traveled, so tell us where you are heading in the comments below. If you want to be more sustainable, the Serial1 E-bikes are selling like hotcakes! Stay with us for all your motorcycle news. Images (C) Harley-Davidson Inc.

By Andrew Nabors – February 16, 2021

New Ducati Smart Jacket Combines Style & Safety

Leaning your Italian stallion into a corner is guaranteed to reduce stress every time. However, your experience can be affected by variables outside your control, and that's why the new Ducati Smart Jacket combines style and safety. What you see is a collaboration with Dainese, and it makes thousands of calculations per second. Constantly monitoring for adversity, the airbags inflate in a blink of an eye, enveloping you in a cocoon to lessen an impact. Equivalent to seven Level 1 back protectors, it can be worn under or over your clothing. Easily folded and stored away, the 26-hour battery can be charged from any USB port. It is the centerpiece of their 2021 apparel line, which is available through our dealers. It would make a stylish accessory for your new 2021 Ducati SuperSport 950, so click the button to learn more. Browse Ducati For Sale Images (C) Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A.

Hayabusa FullBlead Gallery Action8 2500x1227

By Andrew Nabors – February 05, 2021

2022 Suzuki Hayabusa Is Ready To Dominate

When it arrived in 1999 the competition chose not to respond. History repeats itself as the 2022 Suzuki Hayabusa is ready to dominate. Starting with an all-new 1.3-liter, their goal was more power with cleaner burning. Dual injectors and twin-swirl combustion chambers offer 190 horsepower and 110 lb-ft of torque. Loaded with unprecedented technology, the inertial management system prevents wheelies, and electronic stability constantly distributes brake force. Engine braking is also optimized to keep the rear from sliding out. Hill descent, hill hold, emergency stop warnings, launch control, and customizable ride modes are standard equipment. The latest in F1 technology includes priority oiling for the crankshaft and a tuned exhaust crossover between the 1st and 4th pipes. They will be arriving next month, so tell us how they compare to the fastest Lamborghini. Images (C) Suzuki Motor Of America

By Andrew Nabors – February 01, 2021

Suzuki Teases 2022 Hayabusa Ahead Of February 5th Debut

Two-wheel transportation is a great way to practice safe social distancing. If you need to do so in style, Suzuki has teased the 2022 Hayabusa ahead of the February 5th debut. The ancient Japanese translation of Peregrine Falcon, it has left everyone in the dust for two decades. The 1.3-liter has had a good run, but something new is needed to meet ever-tightening emissions laws. As I stare forlorn at my GSX 650, it would be nice to have three times the power and speed with optimized aerodynamics. The gauges give a glimpse above 180 mph with more RPM left on the tach. Do you think it can match Ken Block's Hoonicorn Mustang price & specs? Images (C) SuzukiBikesUK via YouTube

Motorcycles

duPont REGISTRY News

duPont REGISTRY Group

Support

Subscribe