JACOPO CERUTTI TAKES THE FOURTH LEG OF THE AFRICA ECO RACE TO STRENGTHEN HIS GRIP ON FIRST PLACE IN THE OVERALL STANDINGS

FRANCESCO MONTANARI ALSO IMPROVES, EIGHTH IN THE LEG AND IN THE OVERALL STANDINGS

Aprilia Tuareg and Jacopo Cerutti confirm their extraordinary form once again in the fourth leg of the Africa Eco Race. The longest stage of the entire race, with its 472.41 km including 467.36 of special trials, had the riders competing in Morocco from Oued Draa to Fort Chacal in the outskirts of Laayoune. A route immersed in breathtaking scenery, with fast sections alternating with long stretches of navigation through the desert.

Cerutti got the better of his direct rivals, Pol Tarres, at a gap of 2 minutes, and Alessandro Botturi, more than 4 minutes behind the Aprilia rider at the finish. For Jacopo, this is the third win out of four legs held, an impeccable streak. The podium today reflects the situation in the overall standings, with Cerutti in the lead over Tarres (+08:55) and Botturi (+10:22).

Francesco Montanari is also steadily improving, in his début in big raids, eighth today with the second Tuareg in the race and eighth in the overall standings.

The convoy will remain in Morocco today as well for the fifth leg, from Fort Chacal to Dakhla on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. There will be 592.6 total kilometres, 404.06 of which special trials, ahead of a well-deserved day of rest for teams and riders.

JACOPO CERUTTI
"Fantastic leg yesterday. The route was spectacular and I did a long section with Tarres and Botturi after catching up with them around km 200. The tracks were fast, less bumpy than the past few days, and that allowed me to ride well and to have fun, even if navigation was rather demanding. Now we prepare for today’s leg ahead of the well-deserved day of rest and the transfer to Mauritania."

FRANCESCO MONTANARI
"A good day. I navigated well throughout the day but I was rather far forward towards the end and there were no tracks to follow, so I lost a bit of time. In any case, the potential is there. We need to avoid mistakes and exploit the opportunities that arise."

To many, motorcycle tours are the best ways to make the most of your bike. Some look for massive stretches of open road, while others seek the windy tracks up and across mountain ranges. For some, plotting these tours can be tricky – especially if you don’t want to follow one of the organised routes from tour companies.

What can help is coming up with a theme for your tour. That way, you home in on the selection of places that you can visit, and as it’s all from a theme, you add a bit of extra purpose to the trip. Here, we’re proposing ones based on hit TV shows that are not only popular shows, but will also take you to some incredible places.

Famed period drama set between Reading and Bath

Its TV run many have ended in 2015, but Downton Abbey is still revered as a near-immaculate British gem, powered by impeccable acting and a terrifically posh setting. The period drama even managed to earn itself several Emmy nominations over in the US, cementing it as a favourite both across the pond and at home. Now, from its storylines to its sets, it boasts an incredible legacy.

Downton Abbey – Official Trailer

So, it won’t come as a surprise that Downton Abbey has escaped the bounds of the TV screen and leapt further into pop culture. Of course, it was able to sidestep into other entertainment mediums. Downton Abbey has even found its way into iGaming, becoming one of the most popular slots at the top community site for bingo online. It’s got wilds, free spins, and the smashing Grantham Cup Jackpot is up for grabs!

For teeing up your real-world Downton Abbey adventure, you’ll need to turn your attention to a circular route that runs from outside Thatcham, down to Andover, over to near Corsham, up to Swindon, further on to Asthall, over to Witney, towards Didcot, and round to Thatcham. This road trip will take you to all of the most iconic locations, including Highclere Castle, Basildon Park, Lacock, The Old Forge in Shilton, and the Avebury stone circle.

Game of Thrones captured the attention of millions of people around the world, but it just didn’t stick the landing, or whatever comes a season before the landing. Still, you’ll continue to find tour groups venturing to the old filming locations. People still go to Northern Ireland, Iceland, and Croatia to see those locations. Instead of that, maybe turn to the revival of the Westeros setting with the very well received House of the Dragon.

House of the Dragon Season 2 | Official Teaser

The series set over a century before the events of Game of Thrones and was filmed in some superb locations, many of which are in the UK. 
Holywell Beach, St. Michael’s Mount, and Kynance Cove all feature in the show and can be found in Cornwall, or you could go to Surrey to find the set for the opening tourney. In Season 2, Gwynedd and Anglesey in Wales feature in the backgrounds, and they returned to Surrey, only this time for Bourne Woods.

So, will you be riding out into the classic setting of Downton Abbey, or will you be off to the fantasy realms of House of the Dragon?

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Suzuki has announced a GSX-S1000GX+, a pannier-equipped version of its new-for-2024 GSX-S1000GX which comes with an OTR price of £15,599, just £1,100 over the GSX-S1000GX.  

For customers looking for the added carrying capacity the GX+ offers, it represents a saving of £175 over the individual cost of the panniers and fitting. Moreover, including the genuine accessory panniers as part of the standard specification and price means even better value for customers buying on finance, too.  

Two colour-coded, 36-litre panniers provide plenty of storage space, with each pannier capable of accepting a full-face helmet. 

The panniers represent additional practicality for a machine built with all-day distance and riding comfort in mind. Topping the spec sheet is semi-active suspension from Showa, which has an automatic rear preload setting or three selectable options for solo riding, a rider and pillion, or rider and luggage. Riders can also select from soft, medium, and hard damping settings. 

Cruise control features alongside seven traction control settings, encompassed within which is a roll torque control that uses a six-axis IMU to govern available power output when the bike is at lean. The IMU from Bosch also enables cornering ABS. There are three selectable power modes, and a bi-directional quickshifter. 

All the information for which is displayed on a 6.5” colour TFT screen, with smartphone connectivity via the free Suzuki mySPIN app. 

152PS and 106Nm of torque are provided by Suzuki’s revered, superbike-derived, 999cc inline four-cylinder engine, which is housed in a twin-spar aluminium frame. 

In recent years, the world of cycling has witnessed a remarkable transformation with the advent of electric bikes. These innovative machines blend the traditional pedalling experience with the added boost of electric power, offering a unique and efficient mode of transportation. As we delve into the realm of e-bikes, we uncover the myriad benefits they offer to cyclists of all levels.

Understanding E-Bikes: The Basics

Electric bikes, commonly known as e-bikes, are essentially bicycles equipped with an electric motor that assists with pedalling. They come in various styles, including road bikes, mountain bikes, and hybrids, each tailored to different riding preferences. The key components of an e-bike include the motor, battery, and control system, all seamlessly integrated to enhance your riding experience.

The Benefits of Riding an E-Bike   

E-bikes offer numerous advantages over traditional bicycles:

1. Enhanced Mobility: The electric assist makes it easier to travel longer distances and tackle challenging terrains, making them ideal for commuting, touring, and recreational rides.

2. Fitness-Friendly: Despite the electric assist, riders still engage in physical activity, making e-bikes a great option for maintaining fitness and health.

3. Eco-Friendly Transportation: E-bikes are a green alternative to cars, reducing carbon emissions and contributing to a healthier environment.

Accessibility: They level the playing field, enabling riders of different fitness levels to ride together, making them perfect for family outings or group rides.

Choosing the Right E-Bike

When looking for "Electric bikes for sale," consider the following factors:

1. Purpose of Use: Identify whether you need an e-bike for commuting, off-road adventures, or casual riding.

2. Battery and Range: Look for a battery that offers sufficient range for your needs. A larger battery generally provides a longer range.

3. Motor Type: Mid-drive motors offer better weight distribution, while hub motors are typically more affordable.

4. Frame and Build: Choose a frame that suits your body type and riding style. Also, consider the build quality and durability of the bike.

E-Bike Maintenance and Care

Maintaining your e-bike is crucial for its longevity and performance. Regularly check the battery, tires, brakes, and electrical components. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for battery charging and storage.

The Cost-Effectiveness of E-Bikes

While the initial investment in an e-bike might be higher than a traditional bike, the long-term savings are significant. Reduced transportation costs, minimal maintenance expenses, and the absence of fuel costs make e-bikes a financially savvy choice.

E-Bike Safety Tips

Safety is paramount when riding an e-bike:

1. Wear a Helmet: Always wear a helmet to protect yourself in case of an accident.

2. Understand Your Bike: Familiarize yourself with the bike's controls and capabilities.

3. Obey Traffic Laws: Follow traffic rules and regulations just as you would with a regular bike.

4. Use Lights and Reflectors: Ensure you're visible to other road users, especially at night.

The Future of E-Biking

The e-bike industry is rapidly evolving, with advancements in battery technology, motor efficiency, and smart features. The future promises even more lightweight designs, longer ranges, and integrated smart technology, making e-bikes an increasingly attractive option for a wide range of cyclists.

Embracing the E-Bike Community

Joining the e-bike community connects you with like-minded individuals who share your passion for cycling and sustainability. Participate in e-bike forums, join local rides, and stay informed about the latest trends and innovations in the e-bike world.

Conclusion: The Time to Switch is Now

The electric revolution in biking is not just a trend; it's a sustainable shift in how we approach personal transportation and fitness. Whether you're an avid cyclist or a newcomer, e-bikes offer a fantastic opportunity to enhance your riding experience while contributing positively to the environment.

E-bikes are more than just a mode of transportation; they represent a lifestyle change that embraces efficiency, health, and eco-consciousness. As you embark on your journey to find the perfect electric bikes, remember that you're not just purchasing a bike; you're investing in a greener, healthier, and more enjoyable future.

Takeaway

Elevate your ride and join the electric revolution. E-bikes are not just a fad but a sustainable and efficient way to travel, exercise, and enjoy the great outdoors. With their numerous benefits and growing popularity, there has never been a better time to switch to an e-bike.

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AFTER HIS VICTORIOUS DÉBUT IN THE OPENING LEG, JACOPO CERUTTI TAKES ANOTHER BRILLIANT WIN ON THE SECOND DAY OF THE AFRICAN RAID

THE APRILIA TUAREG CONFIRMS ITS GREAT POTENTIAL ON A LONG AND TREACHEROUS SECTION, WITH AN INCREDIBLE 383 KM OF SPECIAL TRIALS

CONSISTENT IMPROVEMENT FOR FRANCESCO MONTANARI, EIGHTH

The Africa Eco Race delves ever deeper into the desert, crossing the legendary dunes of Merzouga, and Aprilia Tuareg is once again at the top. After the historic victorious début in the opening leg, Jacopo Cerutti finished ahead of the rest in the second stage as well, held yesterday between Boudnib and Mhamid.

On a long and treacherous leg, with an incredible 383 km of special trials where the riders tackled changing conditions, with rocky and extremely bumpy sections alternating with faster and smoother ones, also crossing over sand dunes, astride his Tuareg, Jacopo Cerutti put in a flawless performance, maintaining a pace that the others were unable to come close to. Behind him, the closest rivals were Pol Tarres, at 7 minutes, and Alessandro Botturi, more than 8 minutes behind, both on Yamaha.

It was also a positive day for Francesco Montanari who, on the second Tuareg competing on African soil, is beginning to size up an adventure which is entirely new for him. Eleventh in the opening stage, the rider from Como finished eighth in yesterday’s leg, despite a navigation mistake. This result moves him up to seventh place in the overall standings.

Today the third leg is one of the longest of the raid, which will take the riders from Mhamid to Assa - a total of 523 km, including 463 of special trials.

JACOPO CERUTTI
“It was a long and demanding leg. Starting first and blazing the trail for the other riders, I thought that they would catch up and overtake me, but instead I managed to maintain a good pace consistently, without making any mistakes, and another great win arrived! The first part was really tricky. It wasn’t simple riding with the cold and the sun low in the sky, especially because there were a lot of stones on the route. Then, we arrived on the dunes - always a beautiful landscape - followed by other truly difficult sections with lots of bumps, but even in these conditions, the bike gave me outstanding sensations. We have an even longer leg ahead of us today, so we’ll continue to give it our all!”

FRANCESCO MONTANARI
“Today I truly realised what it means to tackle a raid in Africa! More than 380 km of special trials are extremely long - seemingly infinite - but I am satisfied with the way I rode and the feeling with the bike is outstanding. I started off on the right foot and I navigated well for the entire leg. It’s a pity about the one mistake at a certain point that cost me a good deal of time, otherwise it could have gone even better. But that’s okay. Today will be another long and demanding day.”

For updates on all the news, follow the web page
www.aprilia.com/it_IT/aprilia-racing/aprilia-tuareg-rally/africa-eco-race/