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451 Search Results for "beach"
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MOD Street Win in DC MOD Street Win in DC
- From: dnichols
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Description:
Blacksmith Motoring Co. took the MOD Street win with their 2008 Yamaha retroliner / roadliner that features a 255hp 120 CI stroker kit, Turbo and competition cam. Special features include Blacksmith Retroliner front-end conversion kit, Blacksmith front and rear 3 piece steel fenders and Houdini illusion beach bar setup. The bike sports an Engraved 26 inch front wheel, 240 rear, Bandito rear airride, race tuned front suspension, 13inch rotors 6 piston caliber.
1 - GIO, Blacksmith Motoring - El Vendetta, 2008 Yamaha Roadliner
2 – Andres Gutierrez , Karns Performance - 2000 TL1000R
3 – Victory of Southern Maryland – Drilled, 2004 Vegas
The Show Dog Winner is Mike Davis of SportWorx. The Ultimate Builder Show Dog award is given to the dealer or builder that has shown exemplary effort in engaging the audience and furthering their marketing goals and objectives. The award for the effort is a biker chain wallet from Rocking K Customs Leather, a $250 value.
Multiple event winners include Kyle Shorey of Shadetree Fabrications at $5,000, GIO of Blacksmith Motoring with $4,500 and Bruce Boldon at $3,000.
The Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show is produced by www.bikerpros.com.
- Blog post
- 4 months ago
- Views: 136
- Not yet rated
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Indian Motorcycle Unveils the Indian Motorcycle Unveils the 2013 Indian Chief Vintage Final Edition
- From: dnichols
-
Description:
Indian Motorcycle, the original American motorcycle company, today announced the 2013 Indian Chief Vintage Final Edition, the final version of the Kings Mountain era of Indian Motorcycle, which is available in very limited quantity. The new model year 2013 Indian Chief Vintage Final Edition was unveiled before a gathering of the motorcycle industry press from the floor of the International Motorcycle Show in Long Beach, California, which takes place today through December 9th at the Long Beach Convention Center.
Today's announcement marks the end of the Kings Mountain era of the Indian Chief, and signifies an important milestone in the 111-year storied history of the Indian Motorcycle brand. With a paint scheme emulating the iconic Indian Chief on display at the 1939 World's Fair in New York, the stunning new collectible 2013 Indian Chief Vintage Final Edition is a fully accessorized motorcycle that befits its place in the history of motorcycling. The extremely limited number of these bikes available is sure to excite collectors and pave the way for the new era in Indian Motorcycle under the leadership of Polaris Industries.
The 2013 Indian Chief Final Edition comes fully loaded with the World's Fair-inspired paint scheme of Indian Red, Thunder Black, and Gold Pinstripe; auxiliary driving lamps; black leather solo seat with included detachable passenger seat; windshield; black leather saddlebags; chrome grab rail; leather fringe; engine guards; and chrome fender tips. Powered by the PowerPlus 105ci engine, this historic 2013 model will be manufactured in an extremely limited run and wears a custom-designed, numbered emblem on the frame to commemorate the brand's historic achievements.
"We are working hard designing and building the new Indian Motorcycle, but we knew it was important to honor and celebrate the long and proud heritage of Indian Motorcycle, and the Kings Mountain era played a key role in that continuing history," said Steve Menneto, Vice President of Motorcycles at parent company Polaris Industries. "When we acquired the Indian Motorcycle brand in 2011, our strategy was to retain the existing design, quality and high level of detail for which Indian Motorcycle has always been known, while making significant detail improvements in order to satisfy the continued demand from Indian Motorcycle dealers. The Final Edition is an acknowledgement of our gratitude to the team at Kings Mountain for sustaining the Indian Motorcycle story and its heritage as America's original motorcycle brand."
The Kings Mountain, North Carolina assembly line was transitioned to Polaris' Spirit Lake, Iowa production facility in 2011. The line was transported and returned to full operation in an astounding eight weeks, and continued to produce new units for the Indian Motorcycle dealer base. The state-of-the-art Spirit Lake plant also manufactures Polaris Rangers and Victory Motorcycles, though each brand is built on its own dedicated assembly line.
Pricing and Availability The 2013 Indian Chief Vintage Final Edition is exclusively available for purchase in North America with a MSRP of $37,599 and $39,599 in Canada. Interested parties are encouraged to contact their local Indian Motorcycle dealer as soon as possible due to limited availability. Log on to www.indianmotorcycle.com for dealer and model information.
ABOUT INDIAN MOTORCYCLE Indian Motorcycle, a wholly-owned division of Polaris Industries Inc. PII -0.46% , is America's original motorcycle company. Founded in 1901, Indian Motorcycle has won the hearts of motorcyclists around the world and earned distinction as one of America's most legendary and iconic brands through unrivaled racing dominance, engineering prowess and countless innovations and industry firsts. Today that heritage and passion is reignited under new brand stewardship. To learn more, please visit www.indianmotorcycle.com .
ABOUT POLARIS INDUSTRIES Polaris is a recognized leader in the PowerSports industry with 2011 sales of $2.7 billion. Polaris designs, engineers, manufactures and markets innovative, high quality motorcycles, off-road vehicles including all-terrain vehicles and Polaris RANGER(R) side-by-side vehicles, snowmobiles and on-road electric/hybrid-powered vehicles.
Polaris is a global sales leader for both snowmobiles and off-road vehicles, and has established a presence in the heavyweight cruiser and touring motorcycle market with the Victory and Indian Motorcycle brands. The company continues to invest in the global on-road small electric/hybrid vehicle industry with Global Electric Motorcars (GEM) and Goupil Industrie SA, as well as internally developed vehicles. Polaris enhances the riding experience with a complete line of Pure Polaris apparel, accessories and parts, available at Polaris dealerships.
Polaris Industries Inc. trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "PII", and the Company is included in the S&P Mid-Cap 400 stock price index.
Information about the complete line of Polaris products, apparel, and vehicle accessories is available from authorized Polaris dealers or by visiting www.polarisindustries.com .
SOURCE: Indian Motorcycle
- Blog post
- 4 months ago
- Views: 151
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Sturgis Buffalo Chip® Presents Sturgis Buffalo Chip® Presents Customized Victory Motorcycle and Epiphone Guitar As Sturgis Rider® Sweepstakes Prizes
- From: dnichols
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Description:
The Sturgis Buffalo Chip®, known as The Largest Music Festival in Motorcycling™, today announced the opening of the annual Sturgis Rider® Sweepstakes at the International Motorcycle Show in Long Beach, California with the official unveiling of the customized sweepstakes bike and matching guitar prize package. The Sturgis Rider® Sweepstakes awards one lucky Buffalo Chip® visitor a Cory Ness customized Victory Cross Country motorcycle and matching Epiphone Les Paul Studio guitar. The winner will be announced live on the main stage of the Buffalo Chip® during the Sturgis motorcycle rally on Friday, August 9, 2013 prior to that night’s double headlining concerts. Sturgis Rider® Sweepstakes entries may now be made at www.BuffaloChip.com for this one-of-a-kind prize package that combines the world of music and motorcycling.
The Sturgis Buffalo Chip®, the Sturgis motorcycle rally’s flagship entertainment venue, has partnered with Victory Motorcycles, Arlen Ness Enterprises, Epiphone Guitar and KICKER to offer this free to enter Sturgis Rider® Sweepstakes. The Victory Cross Country, one of Victory Motorcycles most popular baggers, customized by world famous motorcycle builder Cory Ness of Arlen Ness Motorcycles in Dublin, California, has transformed the motorcycle into an instant custom classic ready for bike shows and to hit the open road. The customized motorcycle, with its hand crafted fabrication to the stretched gas tank and innovative rear section, 6 degree raked triple trees, world class Arlen Ness products that include the new 23” G3 front wheel, Modular handlebars and Power LED's as well as a high end paint job, helps put this Ness Victory in a class by itself. The matching Epiphone Les Paul Studio guitar, which also was customized by Cory Ness, is an innovation of Les Paul’s classic dream guitar. Introduced in the early 1980s, the Epiphone Les Paul Studio remains a classic favorite of musicians today.
In addition to the custom Ness fabrication, state of the art parts, accessories and head turning paint job, the 2013 Sturgis Rider® Sweepstakes motorcycle from the Buffalo Chip has an amazing sound system provided by KICKER. Complete with amplifier, fairing and saddlebag mounted speakers, I-Pod connection and a guitar hook up so the winner can play their new Epiphone guitar directly through the heart pounding KICKER system on the bike. The Ness Custom Victory motorcycle and Epiphone guitar will be an epic prize package that will commemorate one lucky winner’s 2013 journey to the Black Hills and the Sturgis Buffalo Chip®.
“We are excited that Cory Ness has built one of the coolest Victory Cross Country’s and matching Epiphone guitars we have ever seen as the Sturgis Rider Sweepstakes grand prize,” said Rod Woodruff, owner of the Sturgis Buffalo Chip. “The Sturgis Rider Sweepstakes is just another way we can say thanks to all those who call the Buffalo Chip home during the rally. With great partners like Ness Enterprises, Victory Motorcycles, Epiphone guitars and KICKER, the Chip can continue to offer the best sweepstakes prizes along with the greatest concerts of the rally!”
“I’m thrilled to be the builder of the 2013 Sturgis Rider Sweepstakes bike,” says Cory Ness of Arlen Ness Motorcycles. “We ride our Victory motorcycles every year from California to Sturgis. The Ness family has been partnered now for a long time with Victory, and my whole family has enjoyed many great concerts and events at the Buffalo Chip over the years. I’m really looking forward to being on the Buffalo Chip main stage at the biggest party in motorcycling and handing over the keys and guitar to one seriously lucky biker.”
Fans can register to win the Cory Ness customized Victory Cross Country and Epiphone Les Paul Studio by visiting www.buffalochip.com/EVENTS/contests/bikegiveaway.aspx directly.
2012 was the biggest year ever at the Buffalo Chip, with more campers and concert goers having enjoyed the Chip’s one-of-kind atmosphere and entertainment than ever before. 2013 looks like it will be another record-breaking year for the Sturgis Buffalo Chip’s 9 day and night music festival, with confirmations already announced from multi-platinum country star Toby Keith and the iconic rock band ZZ Top. More band announcements are expected soon. Go to www.BuffaloChip.Com or www.Facebook.com/SturgisBuffaloChip for all the latest Buffalo Chip news and information.
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About The Sturgis Buffalo Chip-
The Sturgis Buffalo Chip®, The Official Destination of the Sturgis Rally®, will hold its annual concert series on August 2– 10 2013, The Largest Music Festival in Motorcycling™ and the Sturgis rally’s cornerstone event will celebrate its 32nd consecutive annual concert series at their famed camping resort and entrainment complex. Since 1982, the Sturgis Buffalo Chip® has provided unforgettable live music experiences and exciting activities for fans from around the world. The Sturgis Buffalo Chip® attracts the music industry's hottest stars and emerging talent and hosts a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors and interactive exhibits. Set on 580 acres, three miles East of Sturgis, the Buffalo Chip® is a festival experience like no other. More details are available at www.BuffaloChip.com. - Blog post
- 4 months ago
- Views: 122
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Honda at IMS Long Beach Honda at IMS Long Beach
- From: madmac66
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Description:
To watch a video of the Honda presentation and new 2013 bikes CLICK HERE (coming soon)
The Honda booth was the typical sprawling affair, with all of Big Red's street and dirt bikes represented. Among them were six, yes six, new models for 2013. American Honda Press Managers presented a little something for everyone here. For touring riders, the new Goldwing F6B was a big upgrade to the long-running heavyweight. For traditional streetbike fans, the CB1100 should be enough to take them back to the days of the big, air-cooled UJM (Ultimate Japanese Motorcycle) inline-fours. Honda created this class of bike with it's legendary CB750, and the CB1100 has proved it can still leverage the sensibilities that made the bikes of that era as beloved as they still are.
2013 Honda CB1100. The UJM reborn
More interestingly, the brand new model CB500 comes in three distinct versions. The CBR500R is a typical sportbike; fully-faired, sporty suspension, lightweight cast aluminum wheels and aggressive styling based upon the CBR line. It is powered by an inline twin motor with fuel injection and even comes with ABS available as an option. Considered a natural progression for a rider coming from a CBR250, the 500R felt and looked every bit deserving the CBR badge. For someone looking for a middleweight sportbike without going full-on racer on a CBR600RR, the 500R strikes a very good compromise.
2013 Honda CBR250. Now available in Repsol colours
It was announced earlier this year that the CBR500R will be the new spec bike in the 2013 European Junior Cup racing series. An entry-level class that runs on the World Superbike calendar, the EJC has been powered by KTM's naked bike 690 Duke in recent years. The switch to the new Honda is a coup for the Japanese giant, allowing the next generation of racers to cut their teeth on Honda power. When I asked American Honda's Product Manager Scott Proffer if there would be a factory kit available to take the street model to race spec, he told me there was none planned, but it was an interesting idea. Riders competing in the EJC will be provided CBR500R's already in race trim.
2013 Honda CBR500. Ready for a new generation of racer
Also in the CB500 family was the standard-styled naked bike CB500F. With a lower seat height, a less aggressive neutral riding position and an all around more versatile stance the F looked like a really good everyday ride. Maybe not the ultimate commuter bike, but a practical and useful one. In the same way the CBF600 (and the Hornet before it) are less sporty versions of the CBR600, the 500F fills that same market segment. For new riders who might be intimidated or less excited by aggressive sportbike aesthetics, the 500F will be a good fit.
2013 Honda CB500F
The CB500X on the other hand, is like a baby Transalp, Honda's 700cc V-Twin loved by tourers looking for occasional dirt. The 500X features the same water-cooled parallel twin as it's siblings, with adventure styling, adjustable windscreen and comfortable upright seating. Not really a true Adventure bike, in the BMW Long Way Round sense, but for a rider looking for a more affordable entry into this class, the 500X looked like it hit all the right touchpoints. It is stylish and functional, and the price point can't be beat.
2013 Honda CB500X
In fact, all the CB500 series bikes were built to sell, priced at under $6,000. All are seriously economical alternatives to the pricey megabikes that have become prevalent. The technology in these budget models, whilst not archaic, is still leveraged from older or other models. There's no new ground broken here. Yet, all 3 models are available with optional ABS, a huge step forward for models of this category.
The final offering from Honda was a revised for 2013 CBR600RR, available in Repsol MotoGP livery for the first time. It features new Showa big piston forks, and stylish new bodywork that allegedly uses aerodynamics derived from the RC212V MotoGP bike. The popular middleweight sportbike even got a price cut for next year, despite it's tech spec improvements.
2013 Honda CBR600RR. Lots of upgrades and new Repsol paintwork
To watch a video of the Honda presentation and new 2013 bikes CLICK HERE (coming soon)
- Blog post
- 5 months ago
- Views: 970
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2013 Motorcycle Models at IMS 2013 Motorcycle Models at IMS Long Beach
- From: madmac66
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Description:
It's December again (already!!!) and that means one thing for SoCal two-wheel fanatics; the International Motorcycle Show tour makes its annual stop in Long Beach. Motorcycles, accessories, gear and apparel are on display by manufacturers and distributors ready to show off their line-up for the coming year.
Friday at IMS is Media Day. Members of the National and International Press get an opportunity to take a tour of the show floor before the throngs of motorcycling public swarm through the doors. Mind you, the swarm of journo's in attendance seemed larger than the last couple of years, so jockeying for position even without the public was hard work. There were no ego's or bad manners on display though, all Press attendees understand everyone is trying to do their job for their own publication. If their presence was any indication, it portends a very busy weekend in Long Beach.
Once our credentials are hung neatly around our necks, the Media tour whisks us from booth to booth in 15 minute bursts, where Product and Marketing Managers announce and reveal their 2013 models. There is scant time to stop, catch ones breath and collate ones notes before the horde is gathered and marched over to the next presenter. This year it seemed new riders and dual sports bikes were on the hit list, with several manufacturers firmly going after these markets. Responding to decreasing motorcycle sales in a stagnant economy where spending dollars are scarce, the focus on big, fast, expensive sportbike has shifted, slightly.
To watch a video review of the Long Beach Motorcycle Show CLICK HERE (coming soon)
- Blog post
- 5 months ago
- Views: 302
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Triumph at IMS Long Beach Triumph at IMS Long Beach
- From: madmac66
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Description:
To watch a video of the Triumph presentation and new 2013 bikes CLICK HERE (coming soon)
Moving from Austria to England, we next visited Triumph where Peter Carleo presented two new models Just arrived in the US from my homeland was the all-new Triumph Trophy SE, a mile-chewing Sport Tourer. The 1215cc shaft-drive triple comes with a host of technological goodies to keep those long rides safe - electronic suspension, ride by wire throttle, ABS and traction control. As you would expect on a bike in this class there is massive comfortable seating, a vast luggage system and an advanced audio system with Bluetooth and iPod connectivity. You could practically live in the Trophy should your mortgage become too much of a burden.
2013 Triumph Trophy SE
Getting a moderate update for 2013 Triumph's Street Triple R now looks sleeker and more sporty, thanks to a revised exhaust system and new sub-frame and a dashing white/red paint scheme. Gone is the under-seat muffler, replaced by the current trend of the MotoGP-style 'shorty' 3-into-1. The Street Triple uses the same 675 power-plant as the more racy Daytona, and gets beefier fully-adjustable forks and new forged aluminium wheels. The Street Triple has been the jewel in Triumph's crown since it was first introduced, and is still a masterpiece today. The 2013 R model looks and feels as good as ever, and is narrowly behind the KTM on my (fantasy?) shopping list.
2013 Triumph Street Triple R
To watch a video of the Triumph presentation and new 2013 bikes CLICK HERE (coming soon)
- Blog post
- 5 months ago
- Views: 187
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KTM at IMS Long Beach KTM at IMS Long Beach
- From: madmac66
-
Description:
To watch a video of the KTM presentation, the AMA Superbike team introduction and new 2013 bikes CLICK HERE (coming soon)
Next stop was KTM, the most dazzling and best-looking booth on the show floor in my opinion, the chromed diamond tread plate construction matched deliciously with KTM's corporate orange in a spectacular dynamic environment. The company claimed to have enjoyed 16% growth in retail sales in 2012, and was looking forward to exciting times as they move further into street bike production.
The Austrian company had two new bikes to announce at the show, but sadly it was NOT the much anticipated 390 Duke or the 1190 Adventure R. New and exclusive to the US will be the 990 Adventure Baja, a 112hp V-Twin enduro bike that wears it's dirt heritage firmly on it's sleeve...erm, fairing. The fully-equipped Baja Special Edition on display looked and felt like it was ready to go head-to-head with BMW in the still-growing Adventure category. Maybe the company was spurred into action after being embarrassed by it's German neighbour in the Long Way Round series.
2013 KTM 990 Adventure Baja
Alongside the Baja beast was the reborn Duke 690 making it's reappearance on US shores. The middleweight Duke looked fantastic and fills another growing market segment started by Ducati's Monster, and joined by many other manufacturers in recent years. The Duke features the fuel-injected 690cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder lump that puts out 67hp and a metric ton of grunt. This sleek, thumping wheelie machine has immediately moved to the top of my shopping list. With a price tag of $8,999 it puts itself in Ducati Monster territory, and represents KTM's most affordable Orange Rider.
2013 KTM Duke 690
KTM America also made formal introductions to the newest member of the factory AMA Superbike team. Taylor Knapp has joined Chris Fillmore in the HMC Racing team to compete in the AMA Superbike Championship in 2013. Fillmore, in his first full season aboard the KTM RC8, achieved success beyond his and the teams expectations. The RC8 is likewise the most dazzling and best-looking bike on the AMA grid, and it's street-legal equivalent equally so, simply irresistible in their orange and white color scheme. With Knapp now alongside to help further development, the team are hoping for greater leaps forward.
2013 KTM RC8. Just like Chris Fillmore and Taylor Knapp will ride in AMA Superbike
To watch a video of the KTM presentation, the AMA Superbike team introduction and new 2013 bikes CLICK HERE (coming soon)
- Blog post
- 5 months ago
- Views: 406
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Suzuki at IMS Long Beach Suzuki at IMS Long Beach
- From: madmac66
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Description:
To watch a video of the Suzuki presentation and new 2013 bikes CLICK HERE (coming soon)
Suzuki will be celebrating it's 50th year in the US in 2013, so it's a big year for them. The Japanese manufacturer has seen some hard times over the past couple of years as the economy took its toll. After making only minor updates to some models for 2012, there were at least a couple of new machines for 2013. Suzuki presented the C90T BOSS, a big horsepower V-Twin cruiser built for big American roads, the Burgman 650, their full-size scooter now with ABS, and a revised Hayabusa that now comes with ABS and Brembo monobloc brakes.
2013 Suzuki C90T BOSS
Another bike designed to attract new riders into the fold - the brand new GW250. Suzuki admits to energetically pursuing the entry level market starting with the GW250, a bike with modern, aggressive styling somewhere between "not too traditional and not too sporty". It bares some resemblance to the Glagius, and is not far off of Honda's CB500X but with half the capacity. As is often unfortunately the case in recent years, Suzuki just seems to fall short of the mark, for me at least.
2013 Suzuki GW250 aimed squarely at new riders
Suzuki will also be celebrating the One Millionth GSX-R1000, with a special Commemorative Edition. The GSXR range representing something Suzuki have continued to do right through the years. I wonder if the ACTUAL 1,000,000th GSXR will be saved and put on display in the Hamamatsu factory, or if it will be just another Gixxer to hit the pavement. The Commemorative Edition has some lovely details, from very special wheel decals, to a tank badge honouring the occasion. For GSXR fans I'm sure it will be a hit, despite a lack of any mechanical updates, again.
2013 Suzuki GSX-R1000 Special One Millionth Commemorative Edition
To watch a video of the Suzuki presentation and new 2013 bikes CLICK HERE (coming soon)
- Blog post
- 5 months ago
- Views: 558
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Ohlins at IMS Long Beach Ohlins at IMS Long Beach
- From: madmac66
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Description:
To watch a video of the Öhlins presentation CLICK HERE (coming soon)
Next stop was the Ohlins booth, where active suspension was again the star of the show. This time the advancement in suspension technology was in the form of an upgrade unique in it's class. Ohlins has been making replacement active suspension for BMW R 1200 GS for over a year, and the Swedish company designed the units used on Ducati's Multistrada (although Ducati opted to limit the 'active' by using it's proprietary software in place of Ohlins). New for 2013 however, is a replacement shock for Kawasaki's ZX10 superbike, the first bike with 'passive' suspension to get an electronic upgrade. No longer required, screwdrivers and preload wrenches will be a thing of the past for riders upgrading their Ninja.
All wired up, the Öhlins Mechatronic suspension system (center)
The new TTX Mechatronic system plugs right into the Kawasaki ECU, with the two units able to share data seamlessly. Ohlins worked closely with Kawasaki on the active steering damper unit for the 2013 model, thus the ECU already had the necessary variables and instruction sets pre-coded. This allows the new shock to plug-and-play, and utilise the rider-control on the handlebar to directly adjust the shock settings (Comfort, Normal or Sport) on the fly. Owners of 2012 ZX10's can upgrade their suspension to the TTX Mechatronic by installing the Ohlins 'black box'.
Two control cables, one for rebound, one for compression, indicate the active Öhlins Mechatronic shock installed on Kawasaki's ZX10.
When asked whether there were plans for other applications of the technology (read; other bike models), the response was a stiff "no comment". Based on the current trend of active suspension technology trickling down from track to consumer models, I doubt it will be long before we see TTX Mechatronic upgrades for your Yamaha R1 and Honda CBR1000 too, both bikes already featuring extensive electronic rider aids as standard.
The Öhlins active steering damper on the 2013 Kawasaki ZX10 enables the Öhlins Mechatronic system to be plug and play
To watch a video of the Öhlins presentation CLICK HERE (coming soon)
- Blog post
- 5 months ago
- Views: 232
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BMW at IMS Long Beach BMW at IMS Long Beach
- From: madmac66
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Description:
To watch a video of the BMW presentation and new 2013 models CLICK HERE (coming soon)
First stop of the day was the BMW booth, where BMW Motorrad USA presented three new models for the 2013 U.S. market. The latest track-inspired (and let's be honest, track-destined) Superbike offering from Munich is the HP4. A derivative of the already technologically advanced S1000RR, the HP4 breaks yet new ground in a race homologated production Superbike. Featuring a bevvy of electronic trickery, from active suspension, adjustable traction control and engine management system, the HP4 was a stunning display of engineering excellence.
The BMW rep I spoke to, assured me this bike is ready to race out of the crate. On any other bike it would take a talented suspension tech and a couple of days (dry) testing on track, to dial in a setting to get close to competitive. With the active electronic suspension on the HP4 none of this is necessary, as the suspension processor is constantly analyzing a dizzying array of parameters, all the while cross-referenced to it's GPS position on track, making the necessary adjustments to the compression and rebound damping of the unit. It's close to Grand Prix technology on a street bike. Quite incredible.
The HP4 will be a limited run motorcycle, BMW will be rolling just enough models off the production line to meet World Superbike homologation requirements. But look for Chaz Davies and Marco Melandri to be tearing up the WSBK tracks in 2013.
2013 BMW HP4
BMW also presented the new F 800 GT, and the updated for 2013 R 1200 GS. The former is the latest member of the F 800 family, this one making the smallest member of BMW's Touring range. The versatile liquid-cooled inline twin motor is combined with a belt drive, low comfortable riding position, ABS and optional active suspension. I looks like a great entry into the BMW fold as an economical alternative to their bigger GT or RT models.
2013 BMW F 800 GT
The near-legendary R 1200 GS gets a new water-cooled Boxer Twin motor for 2013, although the famous air-cooled cylinder heads of the Boxer plant are still evident. BMW chose to only use coolant on certain high-stress areas of the engine, whilst keeping the original character of the flat twin. The new GS also gets ride-by-wire throttle system and other electronic rider aids; five switchable riding modes, stability control (ASC), active suspension (ESA) and the now-ubiquitous ABS. The R 1200 is a huge bike, way too much for me, but for fans of the Bavarian 'Gelande Strasse' Enduro bikes it will be a hit.
2013 BMW R 1200 GS
To watch a video of the BMW presentation and new 2013 models CLICK HERE (coming soon)
- Blog post
- 5 months ago
- Views: 199
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Kawasaki at IMS Long Beach Kawasaki at IMS Long Beach
- From: madmac66
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Description:
To watch a video of the new Kawasaki Ninja 300 CLICK HERE (coming soon)
Over on the Kawasaki booth off the tour route, they were quietly introducing a brand new bike to the US, the Ninja 300. Created, apparently, to differentiate it from the competition of Honda's CBR250, the Ninja 300 will not exactly replace the Ninja 250 in 2013. There are a few significant differences between them lest you think Big Green was trying to cannibalise it's own sales.
The 300 gets fuel injection to feed the liquid-cooled parallel twin engine, which uses a longer stroke than the Ninja 250. An all new frame is designed to improve handling, while a new slipper clutch, new 10-spoke wheels, improved gearbox and optional ABS are other improvements over the 250R. Also the price is elevated by $600. There was no comment as to whether the 250R would be phased out, but it seems odd to have two extremely similar bikes in Kawasaki's line-up that fill the exact same lightweight sportbike niche.
2013 Kawasaki Ninja 300. Not replacing the Ninja 250
All that aside, the Ninja 300 looked sharp. The styling is impeccable, and it felt like a true sportbike despite the still soggy front suspension. Honestly, at $4,199 the Ninja 250 still represents great value. And while fuel injection is nice, for a new rider learning how to strip and clean carbs is not a bad thing.
To watch a video of the new Kawasaki Ninja 300 CLICK HERE (coming soon)
There were many more new models on other booths I did not visit. This list represents the manufacturers and models that interested me and my riding style. As I mentioned, the Media tour was pretty well packed, and Friday evening the show quickly filled up with punters eager to check out the latest and greatest. This all bodes well for the rest of the IMS Tour and the motorcycle industry in general; interest is growing, sales are creeping back up, there is energy from the manufacturers to attract new riders. Roll on 2013 and beyond.
- Blog post
- 5 months ago
- Views: 224
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Ducati at IMS Long Beach Ducati at IMS Long Beach
- From: madmac66
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Description:
To watch a video of the Ducati presentation and new 2013 bikes CLICK HERE (coming soon)
The final stop of the Media Tour was, as usual, Ducati where Stefano Sbettega presented the new HyperStrada, the special edition Panigale R, and the Multistrada 1200 S Granturismo. On stage with Sbeggeta though, was the Monster. The original street-fighter that started the trend is celebrating it's 20th Anniversary, and consequently is being sold in it's original color scheme; red with gold frame. Nicky Hayden came on stage to say a few (mostly irrelevant) words, but he was gracious enough to hang around and chat with fans for a while.
The HyperStrada takes the HyperMotard concept and tries to make a Sport Tourer out of it, with hard luggage, a tall windshield and ABS. I'm not sure it works. The HyperMotard was an aggressively styled hooligans bike and as such worked perfectly. The HyperStrada is like one of the gorgeous Ducati hostesses with a black eye and her two front teeth knocked out; the sexy lines are still there, but she isn't that cute any more.
2013 Ducati HyperStrada. A HyperMotard with saddlebags
For serious touring, Ducati has the new Multistrada S Granturismo. It's a massive bike, in line with the big BMW GS-series. Designed to swallow miles in almost-luxurious comfort, it comes with an exorbitant 121 liters (32 gallons or 4.3 cubic feet) of hard luggage space. Keeping the heavy bike stable is Ducati's electronic Skyhook Suspension, and a electronic rider aids including ABS, traction control and multiple rider modes. All this is managed via two digital displays up front.
2013 Ducati Multistrada 1200 S Granturismo
Finally, the latest Superbike in the Ducati brand gets an additional member of the family. The Panigale R is a $29,000 limited edition with lots of special 'go-faster' bits bolted on. Featuring titanium con rods, Ohlins suspension, full racing exhaust system and carbon fiber bodywork, this bike is built ready for the track. Just in time for homologation into World Superbike 2013 Championship where it will make it's debut. Identified by it's aluminium gas tank and Corse paintwork, this bike is undoubtedly an absolute beauty. The only thing that would make this thing look any better is Carl Fogarty's bum sat on top of it.
2013 Ducati 1199 Panigale R
The Ducati booth signifies the end of the tour, when we were free to roam the hall and mingle with Joe Public who was now streaming through the doors. But not before the traditional Ducati Fashion Show took place. This year the show did not take place on the Ducati stage, but over on The Podium, the IMS tech seminar stage. The music was not as loud, the models not as sexy and the apparel looked much the same as it always does. In other words, nothing to write home about this year.
To watch a video of the Ducati presentation and new 2013 bikes CLICK HERE (coming soon)
- Blog post
- 5 months ago
- Views: 197
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Yamaha at IMS Long Beach Yamaha at IMS Long Beach
- From: madmac66
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Description:
To watch a video of the Yamaha Q&A with MotoGP star Cal Crutchlow and AMA Superbike Champion Josh Hayes CLICK HERE (coming soon)
Further along the Media tour, Yamaha had their usual Custom Builder Showdown prize give-away, and an engine cutaway exhibit. In fact, their technology was showcased here in lieu of any new models to present. There was an R1 with it's internals bared for all to see, highlighting such mechanical advances as it's cross-plane crank balance shaft and so on. Next to the R1, locked away in a clear acrylic box for some strange reason, was a cutaway of a Super Tenere motor. Anyhow, there was nothing of note to drool over (save for Jorge Lorenzo's MotoGP Championship-winning YZF-M1).
Yamaha YZF-R1 engine and chassis cutaway
And there it seems lies the trouble with the big Japanese manufacturers. They concentrate so acutely on techno specifications, they forget to promote the actual point of owning a motorcycle; how bloody good it makes you feel to ride one. The Americans and Europeans get it, they tend to appeal to a riders more emotional impulses, whereas the Japanese try to appeal to the analytical. However, Yamaha did promote it's R.I.D.E program that seems to be addressing these concerns. The acronym stands for Rider Instruction, Demo rides, Events and is geared toward bringing new riders back into the the two-wheel family, hopefully in Yamaha blue.
After the motorcycles were discussed, some guys who ride them for a living were brought out for a quick Q&A. Just like last year Monster Tech 3 Yamaha MotoGP star Cal Crutchlow, and Monster Graves Yamaha AMA Superbike Champion Josh Hayes gave the gathered Press crowd some interesting banter. I actually got to meet them both in the autograph session later in the day, and this time Cal was actually quite polite.
To watch a video of the Yamaha Q&A with MotoGP star Cal Crutchlow and AMA Superbike Champion Josh Hayes CLICK HERE (coming soon)
- Blog post
- 5 months ago
- Views: 295
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Zero Motorcycles at IMS Long B Zero Motorcycles at IMS Long Beach
- From: madmac66
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Description:
To watch a video of the Zero presentation and new 2013 bikes CLICK HERE (coming soon)
In the gas-free zone over at Zero Motorcycles, Scot Harden introduced a brand new model for 2013 and major upgrades to the rest of the range. The biggest improvement comes in the form of the new-from-the-ground-up Z-Force motor, which can put out 125% more power and 91% more torque from a unit barely larger than before. The brushless motor is completely maintenance-free and requires no cooling system. It comes in two configurations, the 75-5 and 75-7, providing 102-volt power pack configurations of 2.8kWh, 5.7kWh, 8.5kWh, and 11.4kWh. The smaller configurations are now modular, allowing riders to upgrade from a 2.8 to a 5.7kWh power plant at any time. Cell charge and discharge efficiency has been improved, as have overall cell life and charging time.
All 2013 Zero models have new frames with the motor now a stressed member, Nissin brakes and improved ergonomics. Also new across the entire line-up is regenerative braking that can recharge the battery using recovered energy lost under braking (think KERS on Formula 1 cars). Another brilliant advancement in motorcycling in general, is the new Zero App that allows a rider to customise the performance characteristics of their bike using a Bluetooth-connected smart phone. The app can be used as a diagnostic tool, a real-time dashboard and a precision tuning device. It's quite ingenious and I can't wait to see how it performs.
The newest motorcycle in the Zero family is the FX, billed as a Stealth bike; part dual sport, part streetfighter, it is supposed to be a modern all-rounder. With the combination of it's 70ft-lbs of torque and 44hp, paired with a weight of 275lbs, the Zero FX is claimed to have the quickest acceleration ever. I can just see a fleet of Zero FX being used in the next Hollywood heist movie as speedy but silent getaway vehicles. Stealthy indeed.
2013 Zero FX Stealth Fighter
With clean styling and high-end components, the Zero S Streetfighter should satisfy those eco-conscious riders looking for a more aggressive bike. With two versions of the 75-7 motor to choose from - 8.5 or 11.4 kWh - the Zero S now has 54hp to propel it to 95mph, and keep it running for up to 137 city miles. What the figures don't tell you about is the power delivery, Harden claims this new model has the power and handling characteristics of a typical 600cc Sportbike in a 350lb package. Nothing to sniff at.
2013 Zero S Streetfighter
The Zero DS Dual Sport uses the same power-plant and chassis as the S, but is limited to 126 city miles in the 11.4kWh configuration due to modified gearing. The styling has a slightly more upright riding position, typical dual sport bodywork and street/dirt tyres but is otherwise identical to it's street-only sibling. Alongside the Zero FX, Zero XU and the original Zero MX these models offer something for every motorcyclist.
2013 Zero DS Dual Sport
All of the technological updates mark a significant step forward for electric motorcycles. The knock on Zero motorcycles has been, and still is, the price. At a list price starting at almost $14,000 it will cost you more than double the price of a Honda CB500X. As such Zero remains a niche product for enthusiasts and trendy eco-activists, not a viable alternative to everyday motorcycling. Even at an equivalent of 426mpg, the savings would need to amortise over a number of years before any long-term investment pays off.
To watch a video of the Zero presentation and new 2013 bikes CLICK HERE (coming soon)
- Blog post
- 5 months ago
- Views: 230
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Indian Motorcycle at IMS Long Indian Motorcycle at IMS Long Beach
- From: madmac66
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Description:
One of the more interesting presentations took place at the Indian show booth. What looked like the opened side of a trailer with a raised platform for visitors to ascend, featured a 'sound booth' where the aural thunder of the next-generation Indian motor could be sampled. This engine, brand new and designed from the ground up, was a big deal to the American manufacturer. From what it sounded like (loud...very, very loud), it should not disappoint Indian fans.
The World's Fastest Indian was also on display. The bike ridden by New Zealander Burt Munro,went 187 mph at Bonneville in 1967. The story was made into a feature length motion picture in 2006, but the actual bike resides in a collection in California, and was brought out to the show in Long Beach. The almost-12 foot bike was fired up, to the delight of the crowd, and the deafening growl all but brought the rafters down.
Indian Motorcycles were making lots of noise out of their trailer
Image credit Cyril Huze - Blog post
- 5 months ago
- Views: 173
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Long Beach IMS- Day 2 Long Beach IMS- Day 2
- From: Progressive
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Description:
2,900 miles traveled and 7,978 left to go on the Progressive Road Trip. Next stop, Seattle! With all this distance to travel, we’re glad we’re covered by Progressive. Oh wait, we are Progressive.
- Blog post
- 5 months ago
- Views: 150
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Long Beach IMS- Day 1 Long Beach IMS- Day 1
- From: Progressive
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VIP customers, we’ve got helmet bags with your name on them. Actually, they say “Progressive,” but you know what we mean.
- Blog post
- 5 months ago
- Views: 147
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2013 VICTORY BOARDWALK UNVEILE 2013 VICTORY BOARDWALK UNVEILED
- From: voodooman
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Description:
Victory’s brand new cruiser for 2013, the Boardwalk. Low, laid-back, comfortable and versatile the Boardwalk is a modern classic. The Boardwalks low seat height of just 25.9” and large unencumbered floorboards accommodate wide variety of riders. Probably the most obvious cues that differentiate the new Boardwalk are the long wraparound rear fender, lace wheels and the beach bars. The Boardwalk looks custom modern cool, yet classic with whitewalls mounted on 60-spoke, laced chrome wheels. READ FULL STORY
http://www.bikernettrikes.com/pages/BIKERNET_EXCLUSIVE_2013_Victory_Boardwalk_.aspx
- Blog post
- 10 months ago
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colin edwards colin edwards
- From: luispr
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- 1 year ago
- Views: 298
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Mike Cole - Gravesend Cycles I Mike Cole - Gravesend Cycles Inc.
- From: danieladear
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Daytona Beach Bike Week - 2012 Ultimate Builder US Championship
- 1 year ago
- Views: 359
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