Cycle News is a weekly magazine that covers all aspects of motorcycling including Supercross, Motocross and MotoGP as well as new motorcycles
Issue link: https://magazine.cyclenews.com/i/833352
IN THE WIND P32 TRIUMPH MOTO2 ENGINE DEAL CONFIRMED T riumph has officially confirmed a deal with MotoGP commercial rights holder Dorna to take over the Moto2 engine supply for the 2019 season. First reported by Cycle News in January this year, the deal will see the British marque take over the reins of the control engine class from Honda, which has been the sole engine supplier since the Moto2 class was created in 2010, replacing the two-stroke 250cc category. The new Moto2 engine will thus be an inline three-cylinder unit based off the Triumph Street Triple 765 RS, an engine that will bring a signifi- cant audio change to the class as it replaces the inline four-cylinder 600cc currently in use. "This is a significant moment for Triumph that brings an exciting new chapter to our 110-year racing history and builds on our celebrated TT and Supersport race-winning triple engines," said Paul Stroud, Chief Commercial Officer for Triumph Motorcycles." We look forward to a long and thrill- ing relationship with Dorna and the Moto2 teams, riders and fans." Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta was equally enthusiastic about the new deal. "We are very excited to be working with one of the world's most iconic motorcycle brands," said Ezpeleta. "The Triumph triple engines are re- nowned for their strong, linear power and torque delivery and have achieved many successes on the track, making them the ideal choice for the Moto2 Championship. We are looking forward to the 2019 season and the beginning of a new gen- eration of Moto2 in partnership with Triumph." In standard trim, the 765 motor produces 121 horse- power at 11,700 rpm and 57 lb-ft of torque at 10,800 rpm, and Triumph has released a few technical details of the 765 engine that will power the 2019 Moto2 grid. The cylinder head will have revised inlet and exhaust ports; titanium valves and stiffer valve springs will be employed, and a race alternator will be used. It will also have a taller first gear, specific ECU developed with Magneti Marelli, a race slipper clutch, different engine covers and a new sump will be fitted. Former 125cc World Champion Julian Simon has been employed as the test rider for Triumph and their Moto2 motor, and has already been test- ing a prototype version at Aragon in Spain. "The engine feels strong and in particular the midrange is very impressive," the Spaniard said. "The feel between the throttle and the rear wheel is very direct and controllable. The general feeling is very good and the engine already shows great potential." CN No more Honda. Triumph will take over Moto2 for 2019 and onward.