Yamaha fans expecting to hear big news from the Tuning Fork brand at Intermot may be a bit disappointed the Cologne show only brought us a refreshed XJR1300, the MT-07 Moto Cage stunt variant and a futuristic three-wheeled concept model. The first two aren’t likely to come to North America and the third might never see production. But fear not, as while most of the motorcycle world was focused on Intermot, Yamaha released a video teasing a “new era” supersport announcement for Nov.
Yamaha is recalling 2011 Vino Classic scooters because of a problem with its brakes. More specifically, the brake shoe linings may separate from the shoe due to a lack of proper adhesion, reducing brake performance and increasing the risk of a crash. The problem can affect both the front and rear drum brakes.
Yamaha Factory Racing today posted on its YouTube page a video interview with Ben “Elbowz” Spies, in which Spies discusses the soon to start 2012 season of MotoGP. In his usual calm, cool and under control manner Spies speaks frankly on how he prefers the 1000cc GP machine, saying it suits his style (elbows out!) better than the previous seasons’ 800cc bikes because the extra torque and horsepower of the liter-class bikes are, essentially, better matched to his physical stature. Spies also answers honestly the question of who he thinks he needs to keep an eye in 2012, including his teammate, Jorge Lorenzo.