Öhlins Racing reflect on a busy EICMA Show with the launches of a new electronic suspension system for the Ducati Multistrada, fork kits for the BMW F800 GS and Triumph Tiger, MX competition equipment and a full Smart EC system showcased on the latest MV Agusta F4 RR.
Öhlins also exhibited for the first time their ultra-special WSB spec test machine to an intrigued public.
MV Agusta F4 RR 2013- Full Öhlins ‘Smart EC’ system
The latest, beautiful incarnation from MV Agusta, the 2013 F4 RR, features Öhlins FGRT 200 series forks (Mechatronics version), TTX36 rear shock and steering damper- all fully integrated with the next generation “Smart EC” system. Lucky owners of this machine will be able to adjust suspension settings via the handlebars and multi-function dash featuring the LED graphic ‘Öhlins settings’. It also comes with preset modes installed, and also an Öhlins electronic steering damper, too.
The new F4 machines feature one of the most advanced electronics packages ever seen on a motorcycle with the aforementioned Smart EC suspension system, Ride-by-Wire control and adjustability for engine power management, throttle sensitivity, torque, engine response, engine braking and rev limitation. The F4′s 8-level traction control now utilises a lean angle sensor and anti-wheelie control.
Ducati Multistrada S – Upgrade to high-spec electronic suspension
Utilising technology developed as OE on the Ducati Multistrada S, Öhlins now launch an even more advanced semi-active electronic suspension system for the ‘base’ model machine.
Choosing the ‘home’ EICMA event for this iconic machine, Öhlins showcased the prototype version of this complete shock, forks and ECU system. Using 30 years of Öhlins suspension know-how, coupled with cutting-edge ‘Mechatronics’ electronic-mechanics initiative, the new system will give Multistrada owners the most advanced suspension package on the market.
After developing aftermarket electronic suspension systems for the BMW R1200GS and a semi-active shock for the Kawasaki ZX-10R, Öhlins has developed the complete kit for the popular Multistrada machine due to its potent all-rounder capability.
The new system features a complete ‘Road and Track’ front fork kit with titanium coating on the inner sliders for that ‘full factory’ look, and also performance. At the rear the latest TTX36 MkII shock has been utilised with new valving components. The fully integrated ECU control is now equipped with new ‘smart suspension’ functions that change the suspension set-up dependent on rider input on the road.
The complete system has been developed in-house at Öhlins Mechatronics Department with testing carried out across Europe, ready for production in 2013 and will fit all Models from 2009. Pricing is expected to be competitive with that of the S model machine albeit with higher suspension specifications on the aftermarket system.
Adventure bike fork upgrades – BMW F800 GS and Triumph Tiger
Öhlins launched two more applications for the ever growing Adventure bike sector with two of the most popular machines now covered; the BMW F800 GS and Triumph Tiger 800 (inc XC) models.
These two go anywhere all-rounders can now benefit from improved handling with the introduction of new fork cartridge kits for standard front suspension. Fully adjustable via the top cap, these NIX30 cartridge kits feature rebound in one leg and compression in the other, with a newly developed hydraulic stop to prevent the forks ‘bottoming out’ in harsh off-road terrain.
Easy to install and service, these kits make all the difference to these mid-weight Adventure machines whether riding on the gravel, tarmac or mud.
MX Competition cartridge kits for ‘air spring’ forks machines
The latest generation MX machines featuring air spring forks as standard (the Honda CRF 450 and Kawasaki KX450F) now have Öhlins competition internals ready to go.
These powerful machines can now benefit from the latest TTX MX pressurized cartridge kit technology to enhance their front end handling.
These twin tube manufactured kits feature external rebound and compression adjusters, hydraulic stops to negate bottoming out and new rubbers for a smoother top out on acceleration.
First Public viewing of WSB spec Öhlins test machine
EICMA saw Öhlins display their high spec, unique MGC3 test machine which is used for track testing of important new race and hypersports components. Attracting much interest the beautiful but functional machine utilises a Yamaha YZF-R1 engine with World Superbike specification equipment. The French built machine stood pride of place at the front of the Öhlins busy show stand with a MX GP bike from Monster Energy Yamaha.
Öhlins Motorcycle Product Manager Peter Andersson explains, “We had a very interesting EICMA Show with much interest from both trade and public with some well informed comments and suggestions. In addition to our aftermarket line-up we could for the first time show our planned aftermarket electronic suspension upgrade for the standard Multistrada, as well as the new cartridge kit for the important Adventure bike sector.
I may be a little biased but I think even with so many exciting new models on display, two bikes attracted great attention; the new MV Agusta F4RR with Smart EC and our own WSB spec test machine which just shows our level of R&D commitment.”
For more info on Öhlins products visit www.ohlins.com and to learn more about the stories behind the products see new interactive magazine Performance at www.ohlinsnews.com