MRW Issue 62

ISSUE 62
DAZ DOES
DAYTONA!
TESTED
• QJMOTOR SRK 450RR
• DUNLOP D606 TYRES
• BMW R 1300 RT
• SUZUKI 8TT
DARRYN BINDER
IMPRESSES IN HIS FIRST
RACE IN THE US

EDITOR’S NOTE
Issue 62 of Moto Rider World is packed
to the brim with the kind of content our
readers have come to expect — a blend of
in-depth motorcycle tests, racing coverage,
and stories from across the two-wheeled
community.
We kick things off by putting Dunlop’s
legendary D606 tyre through its paces, this
time mounted on the capable CFMOTO
450MT, courtesy of the team at Wheelz
Online. The combination proved to be an
interesting one, and as always we pushed
it into the kind of terrain riders actually
encounter when adventure riding.
Staying in the saddle of some exciting
machinery, we also spent time with
BMW’s all-new R1300RT, a motorcycle
that represents the latest evolution of the
German brand’s renowned touring platform.
It’s bigger, more refined, and packed with
technology — but does it live up to the RT
name? You’ll have to dive into the review to
see what we discovered.
We also popped in to visit the crew at TRD
Motorcycles to grab a little more seat time
on one of the most talked-about bikes of the
moment — the QJMOTOR SRK450RR. With
the middleweight sportbike category heating
up globally, this machine has generated
plenty of conversation, and we were keen to
see what it offers from the rider’s seat.
Another bike we’ve been eagerly waiting to
test is Suzuki’s GSX-8TT. Here at Moto Rider
World we’ve spent a fair amount of time
aboard both the GSX-8S and GSX-8R, and
we’ve thoroughly enjoyed those machines.
Naturally, expectations were high heading
into this test. The big question is simple: will
we love the 8TT just as much? The answer
lies within the pages of this issue.
Beyond the test bikes, we also highlight an
inspiring initiative making waves within the
riding community — BRAVE: Bikers Riding
Against Violence Everywhere. It’s a powerful
movement focused on raising awareness
around bullying and gender-based violence.
We’re particularly proud to report that one of
our supported riders, Cayden Robert, has
been selected as one of their ambassadors,
helping spread the message both nationally
and internationally.
On the racing front, the 2026 MotoGP
season got underway in Thailand, and
Round One delivered plenty of thrills — along
with a few spills. It was an exciting start to
the championship, and if the opening round
is anything to go by, we could be in for one
of the most competitive seasons in recent
memory. For the first time in a while, it looks
like Ducati might not have everything entirely
their own way.
Our regular Dunlop Racing pages also bring
you coverage of the legendary Daytona 200,
one of the most iconic motorcycle races
in the world. This year’s event featured
two South African riders flying the flag
proudly. Darryn Binder, fresh from the Grand
Prix paddock after competing in Moto2,
has made the move to the MotoAmerica
Championship for the 2026 season and
lined up for the historic race. Joining him
was Dominic Doyle, who has been racing in
MotoAmerica for several years and stepped
up to the Supersport class this season,
making the Daytona 200 his first outing of
the year. As always, both riders did South
Africa proud. We also cover Round 9 of
the Monster Energy AMA Supercross from
Indianapolis which always provides exciting
bar-to-bar action.
As always, we ask our readers to continue
supporting the magazine by liking, sharing,
and following us across all our social media
platforms. Please share the magazine far and
wide, as that remains one of the best ways
to help us grow. And of course, don’t forget
to support the advertisers who support us —
they play a vital role in making everything we
do possible.
Until next time…. Keep it pinned and stay
safe out there!
CONTACT
DETAILS
EDITOR/OWNER
Shaun Portman
072 260 9525
shaunpotman@gmail.com
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NEWS DESK
While racing remains his primary focus, Robert
explained that raising awareness around bullying
and gender-based violence is a cause close to
his heart. Through his new role with BRAVE, he
hopes to help amplify the organisation’s message
both nationally and internationally, encouraging
others to stand up against abuse and support
those who need it most.
The Clarens event also introduced attendees to
the book I Wrote a Book on Purpose by author
Shaun Lee Oliver. The book explores themes
of purpose, confidence and self-worth—values
that align closely with BRAVE’s mission of
empowering individuals and strengthening
communities.
As the gathering concluded in the scenic foothills
of the Maluti Mountains, the message from
those in attendance was clear: the motorcycle
community can ride not only for passion and
adventure, but also for meaningful change.
Through initiatives like BRAVE, riders are working
together to help build safer, stronger and more
compassionate communities.
For more information or to get involved:
Pravesh – 083 777 1965
Miles – 081 811 4690
Organisers emphasised that the movement is
not limited to riders alone. Anyone who has been
affected by bullying or gender-based violence, or
who wishes to support the cause, is encouraged
to become involved and help grow the initiative.
Young Racer Cayden Robert Joins
BRAVE Movement at Clarens Gathering
Maluti Mountain Lodge in Clarens recently
played host to a powerful gathering of riders
united behind an important cause, as BRAVE
– Bikers Riding Against Violence Everywhere
brought together members of the motorcycle
community for a special meet and greet focused
on raising awareness around bullying and
gender-based violence.
The event attracted riders from across the region,
all coming together under a shared message of
standing against violence and intimidation while
promoting safer, more supportive communities.
The atmosphere was energetic and inspiring,
with participants united by the belief that the
motorcycle community can be a strong voice for
positive change.
One of the highlights of the gathering was the
announcement that 17-year-old South African
motorcycle racer Cayden Robert had officially
joined the organisation as its first ambassador.
Robert, who is steadily building his reputation in
the racing world, said the opportunity would allow
him to use his growing platform to address issues
affecting many young people.

NEWS DESK
BMW Motorrad Unveils R 1300
R Superhooligan to Celebrate
Daytona Racing Legacy
BMW Motorrad revealed the BMW R 1300 R
Superhooligan during the 84th Daytona 200
weekend (March 5–7, 2026), celebrating the
50th anniversary of one of the brand’s most
iconic racing moments. The special machine
honors Steve McLaughlin’s victory in the first-ever
Superbike race at Daytona on March 6, 1976, as
well as Reg Pridmore’s triumph in the inaugural
AMA Superbike Championship, both achieved
aboard BMW R 90 S machines for the Butler &
Smith team.
Adding to the celebration, BMW Motorrad brand
ambassador Nate Kern will compete in the
Mission Foods Super Hooligan Series presented
by Roland Sands during the MotoAmerica
Daytona 200 weekend aboard the BMW R 1300 R
Superhooligan.
The R 1300 R Superhooligan is the result of a
passionate in-house project by the BMW Motorrad
Custom Speed Shop. Led by project manager
Philipp Ludwig, alongside designers Katrin Torge,
Andreas Martin, and Theresa Stukenbrock, and
prototype specialists Paul Summerer and Thomas
Becker, the team created a striking custom
roadster that blends modern performance with
historic inspiration.
Based on the 145 hp (107 kW) BMW R 1300
R, the custom machine adopts the aggressive
character of a naked superbike while
incorporating visual cues from the minimalist race
bikes of the 1970s. Classic racing elements such
as bold number plates, wide handlebars, and
vintage-inspired graphics reinforce the connection
to BMW’s racing heritage.
The tribute extends throughout the bike’s design.
The race number 83 references McLaughlin’s
Daytona victory, while painted components—
including the front fenders and tank panels—reflect
the iconic colors of the original BMW R 90 S.
Additional design highlights include blue accents
inspired by the BMW M 1000 RR brake calipers,
which also appear on the aluminum rear frame
and the fork tubes of the fully adjustable Wilbers
upside-down front fork, extended by 30 mm to
increase lean-angle clearance. The Wilbers rear
suspension spring features a matching blue finish.
Engineered for extreme performance, the
custom roadster is capable of speeds of up to
275 km/h. Its high-performance specification
includes a BMW M 1000 RR carbon front wheel,
numerous carbon-fiber components from BMW
Motorrad and Ilmberger, fully adjustable Advik
hand levers, milled BMW Motorrad footrests, and
a lightweight Akrapovič titanium exhaust with
carbon end silencer.

NEWS DESK
During the 2026 Daytona celebrations, the
BMW R 1300 R Superhooligan will be displayed
alongside the historic Butler & Smith BMW R 90
S race bike, as BMW commemorates a pivotal
chapter in its motorsport history.
guests, will reunite with the BMW R 1300 R
Superhooligan and the original BMW R 90 S race
bike, supplied by BMW Group Classic from the
BMW Museum and specially prepared for the
Daytona 200 celebrations.
In 1976, the newly formed AMA Superbike
Championship provided the stage for BMW’s
racing breakthrough. With expert engineering
from chief mechanic Udo Gietl and chassis
specialist Todd Schuster, the Butler & Smith team
fielded highly competitive BMW R 90 S machines
ridden by Steve McLaughlin, Reg Pridmore, and
Gary Fisher.
On March 6, 1976, McLaughlin secured victory
in a dramatic photo finish over teammate Reg
Pridmore, delivering a historic one-two finish for
BMW. Fisher, who had led several laps, retired
with gearbox failure—denying the team a potential
triple victory. Later that season, Reg Pridmore
became the first AMA Superbike Champion,
securing BMW’s place in racing history.
Fifty years later, the legends of that era return
to Daytona. Steve McLaughlin, Reg Pridmore,
and the daughters of Gary Fisher—Heidi and
Kimberly—along with Udo Gietl and other honored

NEWS DESK
TVS Motor Company
Launches in South Africa with
The Nexus Collective
In the sport and lifestyle category, the Apache
RR310 enters the market at R89,999 including
VAT, while the Apache 200 4V is available at
R44,999 for the fuel-injected version and R34,999
for the carburetted model.
For everyday commuting, the Raider 125 and the
NTORQ 125 scooter are both priced at R23,999
including VAT, offering practical and affordable
transport solutions. In the commercial and utility
segment, the HLX 150, HLX 125 and TRAK 150
are positioned as dependable, cost-effective
workhorses, retailing between R18,999 and
R19,999 including VAT.
Beyond personal transport, The Nexus Collective
believes significant growth potential exists in
urban micro-logistics, last-mile delivery and
entrepreneurship-driven mobility solutions.
Practical business applications such as mobile
coffee stations, food vendors, repair services
and small-scale delivery operations are seen as
key opportunities where affordable, reliable twoand
three-wheel mobility can enable economic
participation and income generation.
Managing Director Robin van Rensburg explained
that the strategy is not simply to compete within
existing market segments, but to expand the
total addressable market by creating new rider
and business categories through fit-for-purpose
products tailored to South African conditions.
The launch forms part of TVS Motor Company’s
broader international growth strategy across Africa,
Asia and Latin America. Guided by its brand
vision of redefining mobility and elevating lives,
the company positions itself on global engineering
capability, proven reliability and a strong valuebased
ownership proposition. All locally available
models are supported by a 36-month or 30,000km
warranty, underlining TVS’s commitment to longterm
customer confidence as it establishes its
footprint in South Africa.
TVS Motor Company has officially entered
the South African market through a strategic
distribution partnership with The Nexus Collective,
marking a significant step in the brand’s global
expansion strategy. Announced in Johannesburg
on 26 February 2026, the move signals the
arrival of the world’s third-largest two-wheeler
manufacturer into what it regards as a key longterm
growth market.
The Nexus Collective has been established as
a dedicated distributorship focused solely on
the TVS brand in South Africa. Drawing on the
leadership expertise associated with Tuning Fork
(Pty) Ltd and supported by Bidvest Group Limited,
the new entity will oversee national distribution,
dealer development and overall brand growth
across the country.
With operations in more than 90 countries and
a global customer base exceeding 64 million,
TVS Motor Company brings over a century of
heritage built on trust, value and service. The
company operates four advanced manufacturing
facilities in India and Indonesia and has earned
a strong reputation for engineering quality,
reliability and product innovation. Senior Vice
President Rahul Nayak emphasised that South
Africa is not viewed as a trial market, but rather
as a strategic investment supported by global
scale, deep engineering capability and a longterm
commitment to building sustainable mobility
access and strong dealer networks.
The initial South African model line-up has been
carefully selected to serve a wide range of riders
and businesses.

NEWS DESK
MT Stinger 2 Earns SHARP
5-Star Safety Rating
The MT Stinger 2 arrives as a compelling option
for riders seeking a lightweight, sporty full-face
helmet that blends sharp styling with serious
safety credentials and excellent value for money.
Designed with dynamic lines and a modern
silhouette, the Stinger 2 delivers an aggressive,
athletic look without compromising on comfort
or protection.
At the heart of the helmet is MT’s MT-MDTC
Micrometric Double Teeth Closure system,
engineered to provide a secure, precise fit
while remaining easy to adjust. The lightweight
shell construction enhances rider comfort on
longer journeys, while removable, washable and
hypoallergenic inner linings ensure the interior
stays fresh and comfortable ride after ride.
2’s shell, is designed to deliver enhanced impact
absorption and structural integrity.
All of this comes in at a starting price of
R1,515.70, making top-level safety attainable for
virtually every rider. With cutting-edge materials,
proven safety performance and rider-focused
comfort features, the MT Stinger 2 positions itself
as a standout choice in its segment.
Find out more at www.poweredbyautocycle.co.za
Practicality is equally well covered. The Stinger
2 is compatible with Fog-Off and Pinlock anti-fog
films, helping to maintain clear vision in varying
weather conditions. A standard-fit nasal deflector
further reduces misting and adds an extra
layer of rider comfort. The anti-scratch visor is
manufactured from high-quality optical material,
offering crisp visibility and a seamless fit against
the helmet shell for improved aerodynamic
performance and overall riding ease.
Safety, however, is where the MT Stinger 2 truly
stands out. It has achieved the maximum 5-star
rating in the SHARP safety test programme, one
of the world’s most objective and impartial helmet
evaluation systems. This top-tier rating underlines
the work carried out by the MT Helmets R&D
department, particularly in the development and
use of HIRP (High Impact Resistant Polymer). This
advanced material, incorporated into the Stinger

NEWS DESK
“We confirmed some items that we
tested in January” – Rea discusses
Honda HRC’s Portimao test
Jonathan Rea was back in MOTUL FIM Superbike
World Championship action at the Autodromo
Internacional do Algarve as he replaced Jake Dixon
at the Honda HRC squad for a two-day test. Rea
jumped on the CBR1000RR-R SP machine at the
Portuguese venue as part of his test rider role with
the Japanese manufacturer, stepping in for the
#96 as Dixon continues his recovery from injuries
sustained in the Official Test at Phillip Island.
The best running of the test came in the morning
of Day 1, with dry conditions on track at the
rollercoaster circuit. Rea posted a 1’41.372s as he
took ninth place on the timesheets for the first day
of action, completing 35 laps in total, although all
of his timed laps were on the bike designated as
‘bike 2’. The six-time Champion finished 1.110s off
the pace set by Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki
Racing Team), but he was the lead Honda rider.
Rea joined Somkiat Chantra in the Honda box
for the test as the Thai rider made his comeback
from the injuries and subsequent surgery that
he sustained in a training crash at Sepang last
year. For Chantra, it was just the second time he
jumped on Honda’s machine following a test at
the end of 2025, and he set a 1’42.546s as he got
back up to speed with the CBR1000RR-R SP.
With Day 2 a washout following overnight rain
and then more rainfall during the second day,
neither Rea nor Chantra completed any laps.
Discussing his test and what he had planned to
work on, Rea said: “The feeling with the team was
super positive and very welcoming. Of course, I
know from the winter tests a lot of faces and the
relationship and information between both the
race team and test team is very close. The bike
was similar and, for me, this test was just to keep
on working, trying to understand the bike and the
areas we need to improve. We confirmed some
items that we tested in January but, unfortunately,
the weather’s not been on our side. We didn’t
finish the complete test programme. The goals
for the test were to first confirm the feeling we
had in January and try to work on our weaker
areas where we can improve the bike. That will
be a continuous evolution. HRC are working
hard alongside the test team to improve the
bike. It’s not something you can do from today to
tomorrow, but we’ll keep working.”
Rea previously tested the Honda machine at
Jerez in January, albeit in an outing that was also
disrupted by rain, where he stated that he felt ‘quite
uncomfortable’ on the bike and needed more
time. He’s since had more recovery time since
then, with the #65 not competing in Australia. After
getting more laps under his belt at Portimao, Rea
explained how his knee was feeling now.
He said: “Physically, my condition is a lot better.
I’m still getting over some sickness from last
week. I was able to complete laps with no pain or
injury problems. At Jerez, I was really struggling
with my knee; I couldn’t bend my knee enough
to ride comfortably. At this test, it’s not been
a problem. Portimao is a physical track, so it
was a good test. I feel physically ready to keep
progressing with testing.”

FIRST RIDE
REVIEW
This test is powered by
QJMOTOR SRK 450 RR
SMALL DISPLACEMENT,
BIG PERSONALITY!
Riding the QJMOTOR SRK 450 RR is an absolute delight.
This little four-cylinder screamer has character in spades
and is fun for riders of all levels — though novice riders
should approach it with respect. The nature of the inlinefour
engine means it loves to be revved, and it’s quick
enough to catch you out if you aren’t paying attention.
Push it hard, and it sounds and feels like a full-blown 600
or even 1,000cc superbike, but without being intimidating.
Despite its performance, it remains approachable,
playful, and incredibly satisfying to ride.
Words: Shaun Portman / Pics: Marko Swart

We spent a proper Sunday on the roads
around Hartbeespoort, taking the SRK 450
RR via Satellite Road. The ride was a mix
of relaxed cruising and high-speed bursts,
and the bike never missed a beat. With its
16.5-litre tank, R300 of fuel delivered roughly
250 km, even with spirited riding — that’s
far from “eco mode.” On the straights, we
nudged close to the claimed 230 km/h top
speed, still with plenty of revs in reserve.
Lighter riders could extract even more from
this rev-happy engine.
At 185 kg curb weight, the SRK 450 RR is
remarkably flickable and easy to manage
through traffic. Its narrow profile makes
filtering effortless, and even small touches
like indicators integrated into the mirrors
show the thoughtfulness in design. The
riding triangle is intuitive, sporty yet not
overly aggressive, and the seat geometry
makes longer rides genuinely pleasant.
Despite being a high-revving machine, the
bike feels surprisingly comfortable and easy
to live with.
Under the skin, the SRK 450 RR packs
serious engineering for its price point. The
421cc, 16-valve DOHC liquid-cooled inlinefour
produces 76 hp at 14,000 rpm and 39
Nm of torque at 13,000 rpm. The gearbox is
smooth and precise, though a quickshifter
would elevate the experience further — a
small aftermarket upgrade that would make
the bike feel 50% more exhilarating.
The chassis and suspension inspire
confidence. Marzocchi upside-down front
forks and a rear telescopic coil spring feel
absolutely spot-on in their default settings
— honestly, I wouldn’t change a thing. Even
under hard braking, there’s minimal dive
from the suspension, and the bike feels
plush and settled over bumps, soaking up
imperfections while maintaining excellent
TECHNICAL SNAPSHOT
Engine: 421cc, 4-Cylinder, 16v DOHC, Liquid-Cooled
Power / Torque: 77.6 hp / 39 Nm
Curb Weight: 185 kg
Seat height: 808 mm
Tank Capacity: 16.5 L
Price: R104,995

stability. The front suspension offers full
adjustability for rebound, preload, and
compression, while the rear can be tuned
for stiffness, giving riders full control over
handling dynamics. Combined with Brembo
brakes on both front and rear, these top-tier
components add a real hint of quality and
reinforce the bike’s premium feel.
Electronics on the SRK 450 RR are equally
impressive for the segment. The full suite
includes traction control, switchable ABS, and
launch control. The TFT dash is crystal clear,
informative, and connects to your smartphone
via Bluetooth, offering tyre pressure
monitoring, user interface customization, and
more. A soft limiter kicks in just over 6,000
rpm, and the launch control can be activated
at 10,000 rpm — features usually reserved for
higher-end machines.
Build quality is
impressive - maybe
even more so than some
might expect from a
Chinese-made machine.
The SRK 450 RR also punches well above its
price in aesthetics and style. The under-slung
exhaust growls at full throttle, while the highrise
windscreen, LED headlights, daytime
running lights, winglets, and aerodynamic
bodywork give it a modern, aggressive look.
LED tail lights and indicators complete the
package, and multiple colour options ensure it
stands out from every angle.

In terms of competition, the SRK 450 RR
occupies a unique niche. It doesn’t compete
directly with middleweights like the Kawasaki
Ninja 500 or Honda CBR500. The only
comparable machine would be the Kawasaki
Ninja ZX-4RR — a bike not currently available
in South Africa — highlighting just how
distinctive the SRK 450 RR is in its segment.
Build quality is impressive — maybe even
more so than some might expect from
a Chinese-made machine. Due to longstanding
biases, some riders might hesitate,
but the attention to detail, materials,
and assembly really hold up. QJMOTOR
has clearly tested and refined this bike
extensively, and with a three-year or 30,000
km warranty, peace of mind comes standard.
Ultimately, the SRK 450 RR delivers
a complete package: a lively, fun, and
characterful ride that’s as thrilling as it is
approachable. With a 16.5-litre fuel tank,
claimed 230 km/h top speed, 76 hp, Brembo
brakes, Marzocchi suspension, full electronics
suite, and all the modern tech a rider could
want, it’s hard to find another bike at this
price point that offers so much. At a retail
price of R104,995, it represents excellent
value for money.
The biggest challenge might just be keeping
up with demand — it’s a small-displacement
bike with a huge personality, and once
people see it in action, they’ll want one.
Demo units are available through TRD
Motorcycles, and you can get in touch via
Sean@trdmotorcycles.co.za or +27 67 619
0836 to book your test ride.
It’s a bike that proves you don’t need a
massive displacement to feel like you’re
riding something truly special.

TYRE
REVIEW
Words by Shaun Portman / Pics by Marco Swart
Dunlop D606
MADE FOR
RIDERS WHO
REFUSE TO
TURN BACK
For dual-sport and adventure riders who
demand serious off-road performance
without sacrificing road legality, the
Dunlop D606 has earned its reputation as a
benchmark tyre. Designed as a street-legal
dual-sport option with a strong dirt bias
- often regarded as a 40/60 or even 80/20
dirt-to-street split - the D606 is purposebuilt
for aggressive off-road riding while
still offering dependable manners on tar.
We recently had the ideal opportunity to put
a set properly to the test after collecting a
CFMOTO 450MT demo from Wheelz Online,
which happened to be fitted with Dunlop D606
tyres. With the middleweight and entry-level
adventure segment currently booming, it felt
like the perfect platform to evaluate whether the
D606 truly lives up to its reputation in real-world
conditions.

Heading into the test, there was some initial
hesitation. A tyre with such an aggressive
tread pattern often brings compromises,
particularly on tar. Our test, however, was
comprehensive. We covered everything from
highway stretches and everyday point A to
point B tar riding, to a wide variety of off-road
terrain including mud, sand, rocky climbs,
fast and flowing dirt roads, and tighter singletrack
sections. We even loaded the bike up
for some two-up riding to see how the tyres
coped under additional weight.
Off-road is where the D606 immediately
feels at home. The full-depth tread
pattern and tall, widely spaced knobs bite
confidently into loose surfaces, delivering
consistent and predictable traction across
changing conditions. In sand and mud,
drive was strong and controllable. On rocky
terrain, the robust sidewalls stood out,
offering excellent protection and helping to
prevent rim damage when the pace picked
up through technical sections. Lowering tyre
pressures when transitioning from road to
dirt further enhanced grip and compliance,
allowing the carcass to work effectively and
maximise contact with uneven surfaces.
What impressed most was the consistency.
Whether attacking fast gravel roads or
navigating slower, more technical sections,
the level of grip remained reliable. For a tyre
positioned at such a competitive price point,
the off-road performance was genuinely
impressive. Riders who prioritise dirt riding
over tar will find very little to fault here.
On the road, the expected compromises
do exist — but perhaps not to the extent
many would fear. No, the D606 does not
offer the sharp, planted feel of a roadfocused
adventure tyre, but it remains far
more capable on tar than its aggressive
appearance suggests. Cornering stability is
confidence-inspiring enough for everyday
riding, and even at highway speeds the bike
feels composed. Importantly, the anticipated
harsh vibration through the handlebars
never materialised. Despite the pronounced
knobbly tread, feedback through the bars
remained relatively smooth.
The one undeniable drawback is road
noise. As speed increases, so does the
audible hum from the tyres, and on longer
tar stretches it becomes noticeably loud.
For riders spending extended hours on the
highway, this may prove tiring. However, if
your riding is primarily dirt-focused, with
tar simply serving as the link between
adventures, it is a compromise that feels
entirely acceptable.

Another notable highlight only
became apparent after a couple of
hundred kilometres of mixed riding.
Traditionally, this is the point where
a typical aggressive knobbly tyre
begins to show early signs of wear
— edges rounding off, small tears
appearing on the tread blocks, or
visible chunking after sustained
highway use. That simply was not
the case here. Even after fast tar
sections, extended highway stints
and time spent carrying a passenger,
the D606 still looked remarkably
fresh. The tread blocks retained their
shape, with no visible tearing or
excessive wear, almost as if the tyre
had barely been worked.
This durability can likely be attributed
to its slightly harder carcass
construction and firmer compound.
While that may raise concerns about
grip for some, in our experience it
struck an excellent balance. The tyre
delivered strong, reliable traction
off-road while maintaining impressive
resistance to wear on tar — even
under added load.
If you are an adventure rider who
leans heavily toward off-road
exploration and wants a streetlegal
tyre that delivers genuine
dirt performance without
excessively compromising road
manners, the D606 deserves
serious consideration.
After thoroughly testing the Dunlop
D606 across varied terrain, speeds
and riding conditions, the verdict is
clear. If you are an adventure rider
who leans heavily toward off-road
exploration and wants a streetlegal
tyre that delivers genuine dirt
performance without excessively
compromising road manners, the
D606 deserves serious consideration.
It offers durability, sidewall strength,
consistent grip across changing
surfaces and exceptional value for
money. For riders willing to accept a
bit of road noise in exchange for real
off-road capability, this tyre could
very well be the ideal companion for
your next adventure.

FIRST RIDE
REVIEW
RETRO SOUL
MEETS MODERN
MASTERY
SUZUKI
GSX-8TT
We’ve had the pleasure of testing the GSX-8S and GSX-8R on
numerous occasions, and we’ve really, really loved those bikes.
So when the GSX-8TT was unveiled, we pretty much knew we
would absolutely fall for it before we even swung a leg over
the seat. From the first drawings and renderings to its official
reveal at EICMA, it was essentially love at first sight. This is one
of those motorcycles that makes up your mind for you—you
either like it or love it before you ever see it in the flesh, let
alone ride it. Suzuki has definitely nailed it with this one.
Words: Shaun Portman / Pics: Marko Swart

At first glance, the GSX-8TT commands
attention. Its retro-inspired styling draws
clear inspiration from Suzuki’s iconic
late-1970s GS1000S, but it’s far from a
museum piece. The compact bikini fairing,
round LED headlight, and tuck-and-roll
style seat capture the essence of the past
while integrating seamlessly with modern
design cues. Bar-end mirrors, a stainlesssteel
muffler cover, and raised Suzuki tank
lettering add subtle touches of character,
while the under-cowl emphasizes the bike’s
sporty personality. In the sunlight, the colour
really pops, enhancing the premium feel and
making the bike impossible to ignore.
Combined with the bi-directional quickshifter
and auto-blipper, gear changes are buttery
smooth, making every ride feel effortless and
engaging.
The chassis, carried over from the GSX-8S,
strikes a perfect balance between agility
and stability. KYB inverted front forks and a
link-type rear monoshock offer compliant,
controlled suspension that soaks up bumps
without sacrificing precision. The bike feels
sleek, well balanced, and composed through
corners, inspiring confidence whether
you’re carving twisty roads or cruising open
highways.
Ergonomics are spot-on. The riding triangle
is relaxed but with a hint of sportiness,
making it a bike you can hop on and ride all
day without fatigue. The seat, handlebars,
and footpeg placement encourage a
comfortable posture, while the 16.5-litre tank
The GSX-8TT may look retro, but
performance-wise it is thoroughly modern.
Its 776cc 270-degree parallel-twin produces
around 82 horsepower and 78 Nm of torque,
delivering smooth, linear power across the
rev range. One of the first things you notice
is the near absence of vibration through the
handlebars and footpegs, a testament to
the engine’s refinement and smoothness.
TECHNICAL SNAPSHOT
Engine: 776cc, 4-stroke, 2-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC
Power / Torque: 83 hp / 78 Nm
Curb Weight: 203 kg
Seat height: 810 mm
Tank Capacity: 16.5 L
Price: R189,900

Riding the GSX-8TT
is an absolute joy.
It’s rewarding,
reliable, and fun,
with just the right
mix of comfort,
sportiness, and
retro charm.
provides both presence and practicality for
longer rides. Everything about the bike’s
geometry works together to deliver a natural,
intuitive riding experience.
Braking is equally impressive. Twin 310mm
discs up front with radial calipers provide
powerful, fade-free stopping performance,
and the electronics are unobtrusive yet
effective. Suzuki’s ride modes and traction
control enhance confidence without ever
interfering with the natural feel of the
machine.
Modern touches abound. The 5-inch fullcolor
TFT display is clear and functional,
the lithium-ion battery is light and efficient,
and the USB-C fast-charging socket adds
practical convenience. But all of these
features sit quietly in the background,
allowing the rider to fully enjoy the
mechanical, retro-inspired soul of the
motorcycle.
Photo: Florian Kastinger, INDG husqvarna-motorcycles.com
Please make no attempt to imitate the illustrated riding scenes, always wear protective clothing and observe the applicable provisions of the road traffic regulations!
The illustrated vehicles may vary in selected details from the production models and some illustrations feature optional equipment available at additional cost.
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The GSX-8TT manages a remarkable
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Riding the GSX-8TT is an absolute joy. It’s
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FIRST RIDE
REVIEW
BMW R 1300 RT
THE TOURING
BENCHMARK
Just Got Smarter
Luxury touring motorcycles have always been about comfort,
technology and the ability to cover massive distances with
effortless ease. With the arrival of the new BMW R 1300 RT,
BMW Motorrad has taken that formula and pushed it even
further, producing a motorcycle that is not only more powerful
and refined than before, but also more technologically
advanced than almost anything else in the segment.
Words: Shaun Portman / Pics: Marko Swart

TECHNICAL SNAPSHOT
Engine: 1,300 cc air/liquid-cooled, 2-cylinder,
4-stroke Boxer engine
Power / Torque: 145 hp /149 Nm
Curb Weight: 281 kg
Seat height: ranging from 780 mm to 860 mm
Tank Capacity: 24 L
Price: from R392,550
At the heart of the R 1300 RT sits BMW’s
latest-generation 1,300cc air- and liquidcooled
boxer twin engine. The horizontally
opposed motor produces a healthy 107 kW
(145 horsepower) and 149 Nm of torque,
making it the most powerful RT ever
built. As expected from a boxer engine,
the power delivery is smooth, linear and
incredibly usable. There’s strong pull from
low revs, while the midrange delivers the
kind of effortless overtaking performance
that touring riders love when covering big
distances on open highways.
Where the new RT really steps forward,
however, is with its Automated Shift
Assistant (ASA) system. This optional
automatic gearbox allows the rider to
choose between traditional manual
shifting or fully automated gear changes.
In automatic mode, the bike handles clutch
operation and gear changes entirely on
its own, making long-distance touring and
urban riding far more relaxed. For riders
who still enjoy the involvement of changing
gears themselves, the system can also be
used in manual mode, allowing clutchless
shifts via the gear lever. It’s a clever
system that blends convenience with rider
engagement and works seamlessly in realworld
riding conditions.
The chassis has also evolved significantly.
BMW has redesigned the frame and
suspension layout to provide greater
stability and improved handling while
maintaining the comfort that RT riders
expect. Electronic suspension adjustment
allows the bike to adapt to different riding
conditions and loads, whether riding solo,
carrying luggage or travelling two-up.
Despite being a large touring motorcycle,
the R 1300 RT remains surprisingly
manageable in everyday riding
conditions. The bike feels balanced at
low speeds and is easy to filter through
traffic, although the mirrors do make it

Technology plays a massive role in the RT
experience. The motorcycle is loaded with
electronics, rider aids and connectivity
features—so much so that it sometimes feels
like it has more electronics on board than
the Starship Enterprise. Everything from ride
modes and traction control to suspension
settings and connectivity features can be
accessed through the large TFT display.
One of the highlights is the integrated audio
system, which delivers surprisingly clear
sound quality even at speed. The radio and
music playback are crisp and enjoyable,
adding another layer of comfort when
covering long highway miles.
Our particular test bike came finished in
the striking Triple Black colour scheme,
which perfectly suits the RT’s elegant and
purposeful design. The bike has a real
presence on the road, combining luxury
touring style with a slightly aggressive edge.
In terms of pricing, the BMW R 1300 RT
starts at R317,300. However, as is often the
case with BMW motorcycles, the options
list allows buyers to add a wide range of
additional features.
Even the Triple Black colour option fitted to
our test bike adds R11,500 to the base price.
The total value of the optional equipment
fitted to this particular motorcycle came to
R66,500, bringing the final price of the test
bike to R395,300.
Some of the optional extras fitted to our test
unit included: Central locking, Audio Pro,
the variable luggage system, the ECE audio
system, Headlight Pro, a top case and carrier,
12-volt socket, and LED fog light kits, to
name just a few.
slightly wide when navigating tight spaces.
Once moving, the weight disappears and
the bike becomes incredibly composed and
confidence-inspiring.
Comfort has always been one of the RT’s
strongest attributes, and the new model
continues that tradition beautifully. The riding
position is upright and relaxed, the seat is
plush and supportive, and the fairing offers
outstanding wind protection. Even with the
shorter windscreen fitted to our Triple Black
test bike, the protection from the elements
was excellent.
During our test, I was caught in the
rain several times, yet remained almost
completely dry thanks to the clever
aerodynamics, the protection offered around
the legs, and the adjustable windscreen. Add
to that heated grips and heated seats, and
the RT becomes a seriously comfortable
place to spend long hours in the saddle.
Lighting is another area where BMW’s
attention to detail stands out. The R 1300 RT
features LED lighting throughout, including
the indicators, headlights and rear lighting.
The optional adaptive lighting system is
particularly impressive, adjusting the beam
when leaning through corners to keep the
road ahead illuminated.
The lights themselves are extremely
powerful, especially on high beam, to the
point where it almost feels like you’re lighting
up the entire road ahead. Even the top box
is illuminated, which might seem like a small
detail, but it adds to the premium feel of the
bike and highlights the level of thought that
has gone into the design.
At night, the bike genuinely lights up like the
4th of July, giving the rider extra confidence
and a greater sense of safety when riding in
dark conditions.

While these extras certainly enhance the
bike’s touring capability and premium feel,
one could argue that many of these features
should actually be standard equipment on
a flagship touring motorcycle like the RT.
Riders buying a machine of this nature will
almost certainly want these features anyway,
so offering them as a more comprehensive
standard package could make sense.
That said, even with the additional options
fitted, the RT still represents strong value
for money considering the amount of
technology, luxury and touring capability
on offer.
Interestingly, this was a motorcycle I wasn’t
expecting to fall in love with. I’ve always liked
previous generations and earlier versions
of the RT, but perhaps when I was younger
I didn’t fully appreciate what this type of
motorcycle is really about. Large touring
bikes sometimes seemed a bit too sensible, a
bit too grown-up.
But after spending proper time with the
new R 1300 RT, my perspective completely
changed. By the end of the test, I had
genuinely fallen in love with this motorcycle.
Maybe it’s my age showing a little—although
at 38 years old I’d still like to think I’m not
quite ready for slippers and pipe-smoking
just yet—but the RT makes an incredibly
convincing case for itself.

It’s comfortable, refined, powerful and packed
with technology. It performs far better than
most people expect, handles beautifully for a
bike of its size, and can still navigate everyday
traffic without much drama.
And the truth is, these bikes are seriously
underrated. You simply don’t see enough
of them on the road, which is a real shame,
because the R 1300 RT is genuinely one of the
best all-round motorcycles available today.
Riding any motorcycle is ultimately a
personal choice. It’s about how a bike makes
you feel when you throw a leg over it and
head out onto the road.
It puts a smile on your face every time you
start it up, and honestly, you can’t really put a
price on that feeling.
For its combination of performance, luxury,
technology and genuine long-distance
touring ability, the BMW R 1300 RT gets two
massive thumbs up.
If someone asked me tomorrow whether I’d
buy one, the answer would be simple. In a
heartbeat.
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RACING PAGES
HOW DUNLOP USES
REAL RACES TO
SHAPE MOTORCYCLE
TYRE DEVELOPMENT.
When Peter Hickman and Jeremy Guarnoni
crossed the finish line to win the 6 Heures Moto
de Spa-Francorchamps in September, their goal
was complete. But for these two seasoned racers,
the goal that day wasn’t to win the race. It was to
test tyres.
The Dunlop Test Team is one of the most
interesting development programmes in
motorcycle racing. Managed by Steven Casaer
(EMC37) with engineers from Dunlop’s technical
centre in Montluçon, France, the programme
harnesses the expertise of top riders to test the
next generation of racing and track day tyres in the
toughest and most realistic conditions - real races.
“Testing in this environment is different to just
testing on a normal track,” Hickman explains. “It
means that when we are passing people, we’re
going off the racing line, trying different parts of
the track that we wouldn’t do if we’re testing on
our own. We get to use the tyre in a different way
and in the type of realistic conditions it’s actually
going to get used in.”
Getting data from real-world conditions, where
traffic and overtakes make replicating the perfect
lap time difficult, gives Dunlop’s engineers more
usable data than a typical test session. And when
the subjective feedback comes from riders of the
calibre of Hickman (the Isle of Man TT lap record
holder) and Guarnoni (an FIM Endurance World
Champion), the engineers benefit from some
of motorcycle racing’s most experienced and
knowledgeable riders.
“They don’t tell us anything about it so it’s a
completely blind test,” explains Hickman. “Often,
the lap time on the bike is actually blanked off so
we can’t see it - from our perspective it’s all about
feel rather than lap time. Every time I ride out of
the pits, I know I need to get used to the tyre and
put in a fast lap time as quickly as I can, obviously
without making a mistake! We’ve just got to go out
and ride as hard as we can and give our feedback
at the end of it.”
Dunlop brought more than 200 tyres to Spa,
from development specifications of its KR slick
racing tyre range, treaded dry weather racing
tyres to intermediate and wet specifications. Each
stint during the race, the riders were fitted with a
different rear tyre but had no knowledge of what
to expect from it. This approach allows Hickman
and Guarnoni to give unbiased feedback,
comparing it only to the reference tyre.
Over the course of the three-day event, Hickman
and Guarnoni completed 2,000 km, including 101
laps during the race. Their BMW M1000RR is
fitted with 75 sensors measuring more than 300
data points, generating a huge amount of data.
“While we rely on the riders for expert subjective
feedback, we measure all the objective data from
the garage,” explains Giovanni Dalla Torre, one

RACING PAGES
of Dunlop’s lead Tyre Development Engineers
for motorcycle racing. “This split allows us to
separate the facts from the feedback, both of
which are vital to the development process.
Having top riders like Peter and Jeremy in
the programme means they give us clear,
experienced feedback that carries weight when
we later introduce the new specifications to our
customers and supported teams.”
A number of new tyres were tested at Spa,
including new soft and supersoft slicks to be
added into the Dunlop KR range, a new treaded
racing tyre, a new front slick and a new wet tyre.
When developing a new product, the combination
of laboratory testing, closed private testing and
realistic race testing gives Dunlop’s development
team an unparalleled level of detail and quality
feedback.
In fact, the recent 6-hour race at Spa was the
latest in a varied schedule of outings for the
Dunlop Test Team, which often enters national
superbike championships across Europe, too.
In April, the team participated in the pre-event
test for the EWC’s 24 Heures Motos at Le Mans,
clocking the second fastest lap time on the
opening day.
The results of the Dunlop Test Team’s efforts
are seen in some of Europe’s most competitive
championships, such as the Spanish ESBK series,
where top Superbike and Supersport teams
such as BMW Easyrace Team and Team Honda
Laglisse choose the latest generation of Dunlop
tyres to give them the competitive edge over rival
teams using other tyres. In the Italian CIV series,
where Dunlop is the exclusive tyre supplier,
the Test Team’s constant development allows
Dunlop to regularly bring new tyres that meet the
demands of this highly competitive championship.
“Testing in competitive conditions is the obvious
next step after completing the virtual and private
testing stages of the development programme,”
Dalla Torre adds. “When Dunlop-supported teams
are racing in championships as competitive as
ESBK, they’re constantly managing traffic and
going off line to overtake, all in changing track
conditions. At events like the Spa 6 Hours or the
Le Mans test day, the data the Dunlop Test Team
gathers helps us to fine-tune the next generation
of racing tyres that will benefit all our customer
and partner teams, from world championships to
national competitions.”

RACING PAGES
LAWRENCE CLAIMS
INDIANAPOLIS TRIPLE
CROWN VICTORY
Pics by Supercross Live and Align Media
The Monster Energy SMX World Championship
arrived in the racing capital of the world as a
packed Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis hosted
Round 9 of the 2026 Monster Energy AMA
Supercross Championship. The second Triple
Crown event of the season delivered a dramatic
night of racing across both the 450SMX and
250SMX classes, highlighted by a hard-fought
overall victory for Honda HRC Progressive’s
Hunter Lawrence and a commanding
breakthrough performance from Monster Energy
Yamaha Star Racing’s Cole Davies.
The second race of the evening dramatically
reshaped the overall standings. Roczen’s hopes
of victory ended on the opening lap when he
mistimed a rhythm section and landed on Red
Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Aaron Plessinger,
taking Plessinger out of the race and dropping
Roczen to the back of the field. Up front, Tomac
appeared poised to take the win after passing
early leader Justin Cooper. However, Cooper
regrouped and responded with a decisive move to
Just one week after competing at another
of motorsport’s most iconic venues, the
championship continued its momentum inside
the Indiana stadium, where fans witnessed three
intense races in the unique Triple Crown format.
In the premier 450SMX Class, the opening
12-minute plus one lap race saw Progressive
Insurance Cycle Gear Suzuki’s Ken Roczen make
an early charge to the front. Once in control, the
German rider delivered a flawless ride to secure
victory by 5.4 seconds. Behind him, the battle for
the remaining podium positions was fierce, with
Lawrence ultimately claiming second place while
Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Eli Tomac fought
through the field after starting outside the top
ten to finish third. Monster Energy Yamaha Star
Racing’s Cooper Webb came home fourth after
spending much of the race in second position, with
teammate Justin Cooper completing the top five.
reclaim the lead, eventually taking the race victory
by 3.5 seconds over Tomac. Webb secured a
steady third-place finish, while Lawrence suffered
a costly incident with lapped riders that dropped
him from third to fourth.
With the overall result still wide open, the third and
final race of the night proved decisive. Lawrence
and Tomac quickly established themselves at the
front, knowing that track position would be critical
on the increasingly deteriorating circuit. Lawrence
grabbed the holeshot and immediately settled into
the lead ahead of Tomac.
As the race progressed, the Australian gradually
extended his advantage while navigating through
lapped traffic. Roczen rebounded from his earlier
troubles to run in third, while Webb and Cooper
continued their close battle for fourth. Lawrence
remained composed throughout the race and was

RACING PAGES
never seriously challenged, ultimately crossing the
finish line 5.5 seconds ahead of Tomac to secure
the race win and the overall Triple Crown victory.
Lawrence and Tomac ended the night tied on
seven points, but Lawrence’s superior result in the
final race gave him the advantage in the tiebreaker
with a 2-4-1 scorecard compared to Tomac’s 3-2-
2. The victory marked Lawrence’s second win of
the season and further strengthened his position
at the top of the championship standings.
Following the race, Lawrence credited the
relentless work behind the scenes that helped
deliver the result.
“This win means a lot,” he said. “This is my fifth
day riding in a row this week testing with the team.
Those guys will never give up, nor will I. This is the
ultimate thank you for going through the ringer
this week, riding five days in a row, and coming
out and performing tonight. It’s a Triple Crown, so
it’s a tough one.”
Tomac narrowly missed out on the victory but
remained firmly in contention for the championship.
“I made one mistake in the final race and Hunter
pulled out a second or two,” Tomac explained. “I
just wasn’t able to bring that back. I had a sketchy
moment in the whoops and feel like I lost the race
there. I started jumping but got a little squirrely
and then started skimming again at the end and it
was better. I’m glad to get out of here with a good
finish. It’s just a tough night of racing here with the
Triple Crown and this soil.”
Webb completed the overall podium after a
consistent night across the three races.
“Overall, it was kind of a plateau night for me,”
Webb admitted. “I’m pretty bummed with those
results because I felt really good coming in. Those
two ahead of me were on another level tonight.
We’ve got work to do, but there’s a lot of racing
left and anything can happen.”
With the result, Lawrence extended his
championship lead to four points over Tomac
heading into the series’ lone off weekend, while
Webb remained third in the standings, 25 points
adrift of the lead.
The Indianapolis event also hosted the third
round of the Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class
Championship and the division’s first Triple Crown
of the season. The night belonged to Monster
Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Cole Davies, who
delivered a dominant performance to claim his
first victory of the year.
Davies faced a tougher challenge
in Race 2, where he and Shimoda
battled closely as both riders
attempted to pass early leader
Jalek Swoll of Triumph Factory
Racing. Davies eventually found
his way past both riders and went
on to secure his second victory of
the night, finishing 2.2 seconds
ahead of Shimoda. Brown
rebounded strongly from his
opening race struggles to take
third, while Hammaker endured a
crash that relegated him to ninth.
The final race of the night once
again saw Davies deliver under
pressure. After securing another
strong start, he worked his way
to the front and passed Swoll to
take the lead before pulling clear
of the field. Behind him, Shimoda
battled with ClubMX Yamaha’s
Devin Simonson before moving
into third and chasing down
Swoll for second. Hammaker also
joined the fight late in the race,
eventually passing Shimoda on the final lap as the
trio closed rapidly on Davies.
Despite the pressure, Davies held on to complete
a flawless 1-1-1 sweep of the Triple Crown,
crossing the line just eight-tenths of a second
ahead of Hammaker, with Shimoda finishing third.
The young New Zealander opened the evening
with a commanding win in the first 10-minute plus
one lap race, controlling the event from the front
and finishing two seconds ahead of Honda HRC
Progressive’s Jo Shimoda, with Monster Energy
Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Seth Hammaker in third.
Meanwhile, championship leader Pierce Brown
endured a difficult start and was forced to fight
through the field to salvage tenth place.
The victory marked Davies’ first win of the
2026 season and the third of his career, while
Shimoda’s consistent 2-2-3 results secured
second overall. Hammaker overcame his earlier
difficulties to claim the final podium position.
Davies expressed relief after finally breaking
through for his first win of the season.

RACING PAGES
“I guess I was just too excited to go at the start of
the season and was a bit too antsy on the track,”
he said. “Tonight I just let the race come to me
and made some passes in every race. I’m just
stoked. It’s a bit of a relief. I’ve been frustrated
getting beat in the earlier rounds, so it’s good to
come back and have a good Triple Crown.”
Shimoda acknowledged that while the result was
positive, there was still work to be done.
“I got decent starts today,” he said. “Not the best
ones, but I was able to get to the front. I pulled it
off as much as I could, but I need to ride faster.
There’s still a lot more to come.”
Hammaker was pleased to salvage a podium after
a challenging evening.
“It was a pretty hectic night,” he said. “I couldn’t
get off the gate too well and that cost me. I didn’t
put myself in great positions off the start, but
thankfully we salvaged a podium and we’re still
right there in the points.”
The Eastern Division championship standings
tightened significantly following the Indianapolis
round, with four riders now separated by just two
points. Davies moved into the points lead by a
single point over Hammaker, while Brown and
Shimoda sat tied for third.
With the first East/West Showdown of the 2026
season looming, the championship battle appears
set to intensify as the Monster Energy AMA
Supercross season heads into its next phase.
Photo: R. Schedl
250 SX-F
250 SX-F
LEAVE
THE PACK
Please make no attempt to imitate the illustrated riding scenes, always wear protective clothing and observe the applicable provisions of the road traffic regulations!
The illustrated vehicles may vary in selected details from the production models and some illustrations feature optional equipment available at additional cost.
BEHIND
The MX2 benchmark isn’t just back – it’s evolved.
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RACING PAGES
HERRIN REIGNS AGAIN
AS DAYTONA 200
DELIVERS HIGH DRAMA
Yet the race had looked anything but
straightforward for Herrin. In the days leading up
to the event, the Rahal Ducati Moto rider admitted
doubts about his chances. “If you had asked me
even on the grid, last week, two weeks ago, how
I felt coming into the race, I just would have said I
had zero chance,” Herrin confessed. “I woke up
this morning thinking there’s no way because the
lap that I did in qualifying yesterday took everything
I had. I had to get a perfect draft. I was a second
and a half off of Kayla, Di Mario, and PJ all five
days that I rode this bike in pre-season testing.
Just wanted to put my head into a wall. I was pretty
frustrated. But Scott Jensen… That’s what’s cool
about having a crew chief that used to be a racer
because he has that never-give-up attitude. He
knows how it is to be a frustrated rider. No matter
how frustrated I got, he just kept making me feel
more positive at the end of each day.”
Even race day was not without drama. During
the first round of pit stops, Herrin lost precious
seconds when his Ducati refused to start, forcing
his crew to push him a considerable distance
down pit lane before the engine roared back to
life. Later, another bizarre incident occurred when
Herrin collided with a cameraman while exiting
the pits during the final stop—an episode he now
recalls with humor. “I was so angry. I can’t be
angry now. Now it’s just funny, but it was one
of the worst moments in my career. It felt like
something was just helping me out there. Every
time something bad happened, I just got carried
back to the front. It was an amazing race.”
Pole sitter Tyler Scott also delivered a strong
performance throughout the weekend, showing
impressive speed and consistency on his D3O M4
ECSTAR Suzuki. “We came into Daytona just kind
of not knowing what to think,” Scott admitted. “Go
Pics by Brian J. Nelson Photography & Brad Anassis
The 84th running of the legendary Daytona
200 once again proved why it remains one of
the most iconic motorcycle races in the world.
Held at the high-speed cathedral that is Daytona
International Speedway, the opening round of the
2026 MotoAmerica Supersport season produced
a race packed with strategy, heartbreak, history,
and unforgettable moments.
From the very start, the race delivered drama.
The opening laps barely got underway when an
incident at the International Horseshoe brought
out a red flag on lap two, forcing officials to halt
proceedings. After the restart, the field settled
into what would become a relentless 56-lap battle
to complete the traditional 200-mile distance. As
always at Daytona, pit strategy played a decisive
role, with leading teams forced into three stops
across the race. The timing and execution of
those stops would ultimately shape the outcome.
When the dust finally settled, it was Josh Herrin
who once again stood atop the podium in Victory
Lane, hoisting a special Troy Lee Designs helmet
inspired by Daytona legend Scott Russell. Herrin’s
triumph was historic in multiple ways. The win
marked his fourth consecutive Daytona 200
victory and the fifth of his career, placing him
alongside Scott Russell and Miguel Duhamel as
the most successful riders in the race’s storied
history. It also cemented his reputation as one of
the modern masters of Daytona’s banking.

RACING PAGES
out for the first session. The bike was amazing.
The whole first day, we didn’t touch a single thing
on the bike. I felt super comfortable all weekend.
Just the consistency gives me confidence going
into the season. As far as the race goes, we were
there and the first thing, got held up by a few
lapped riders and dropped a couple seconds
back. When we hit the first pit stop, that kind of
hurt us a little bit. Every time we came out, just
five seconds behind. Unfortunately, we weren’t
able to make the push to the front at the end.”
Scott finished just over 38 seconds behind Herrin,
taking second place.
Behind the leaders, the fight for the final podium
spot produced one of the most memorable
moments in Daytona 200 history. At just 19 years
old, Kayla Yaakov rode a calm and calculated
race, staying within striking distance while
exploiting the strengths of her Ducati around the
famed 3.56-mile circuit. In the final laps, she found
herself locked in a drag-race duel with South
Africa’s Darryn Binder for third place. Binder had
made a strong impression in his Daytona debut,
adapting quickly to the Supersport class and the
draft-heavy racing of Daytona, despite a pit stop
issue that disrupted his rhythm.
Yaakov’s timing proved perfect. Using the draft to
slip past Binder on the run to the line, she made
history as the first woman ever to stand on the
Daytona 200 podium. “We worked really hard this
off-season,” she said. “I said it on the podium. I
just really invested in myself this off-season, and
I feel like it’s really paid off. I’m just in the best
mindset, the best condition I’ve ever been in. This
weekend, we didn’t really have any expectations.
I just tried to put myself in a good position, stayed
really calm. Knew where I was. Knew where my
bike was good. Knew that if I was behind Darryn
Binder, I would come across the line in front of
him. It was a great race.”

RACING PAGES
Binder ultimately crossed the line fourth, narrowly missing
the historic podium but delivering a performance that hinted
at strong potential for the rest of the MotoAmerica season.
Another impressive rookie, Alessandro Di Mario, finished
fifth after maintaining a consistent pace throughout the race.
South Africa celebrated further down the order as Dominic
Doyle brought home the highest-placed Yamaha YZF-R9 in
sixth, finishing as the last rider on the lead lap, while Blake
Davis and veteran Josh Hayes completed the top eight. Ryder
Davis and Gus Rodio rounded out the top ten.
Late-race drama had also reshaped the battle for victory.
Richie Escalante crashed while in podium contention, and
P.J. Jacobsen, who had built what looked like a comfortable
lead, suffered a late-race crash with only eight laps remaining
while lapping a backmarker. The incidents handed control of
the race back to Herrin, who capitalized on the opportunity to
surge into the lead and ultimately take the checkered flag.
When the flag waved after 200 miles of high-speed action,
the 2026 Daytona 200 had delivered a spectacle worthy of its
legendary reputation. Pit-lane drama, mechanical struggles,
crashes, and historic podium moments all unfolded against
the breathtaking banking of Daytona. At the center of it all
stood Josh Herrin, now tied with the greats of the sport. With
five Daytona 200 victories to his name, his legacy at Daytona
is firmly secured—and his reign shows no sign of slowing.