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Best auto news from around the world.

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Bajaj Kicks back again

Bajaj Launches the all-new Pulsar 200NS.

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Saturday, June 30, 2007

The Real Ghost Rider - Part1

GhostRider is the name of Patrik Furstenhoff . He stars in a number of motorcycle movies comprising of journeys through uncontrolled and unstaged roads and highways at illegal speeds. One of the most notorious of these journeys is the "Uppsala Run" in Ghost Rider: The Final Ride, 2002. This trip covers approximately 70 kilometers of continuous travel from Stockholm to Uppsala in 14 minutes 55 seconds (this equates to an average speed of 276 km/h over the period) on public highways.
Patrik Furstenhoff, The Ghost Rider

The videos can be described as a continuous traffic violation, with excessive speeds and improper passing being most prominent (Cool!). Other incidents include weaving through highway traffic at 300 km/h, evading police pursuits and resisting arrests. Another recurring theme in the Ghost Rider videos is the harassment of police officers, who seemingly display little hope of catching the protagonist (awwww!).

Some say the original motive for making the films was to show the Getaway in Stockholm(an illegal car racing video) team how much better the results would be using a bike. However, in a hein gericke promotional section in the July issue of PB magazine, Ghost Rider added clarification:

"We saw a movie called 'Getaway in Stockholm', which is a car chase movie. But it's all made up. We couldn't believe the world was raving about it. The policeman was actually a body builder, he even had baggy pants on. It wasn't real. There's a hardcore of riders and drivers in Stockholm who do this for real, but yet the "Getaway in Stockholm" movie was a rental car pretending to be a police car and it was all in the middle of the night with empty roads. You can print this; it was shit. And we made up the Ghost Rider as a big 'you suck' to the car guys."

In the November 2005 issue of Slitz magazine, it was revealed that he is a foreign stunt rider who is close to 40 years old, and Motorcycle news recently revealed the true identity of Ghost Rider as Swedish rider Patrik Furstenhoff (a member of the Swedish Wheelie Team - SWT) when he broke the world wheelie speed record, breaking his own previous record by 14 mph to record 215 mph on one wheel.

In a brief interview after the event Patrik said he would be stopping his antics as he had his son to think of but wanted to break the record one last time.

Despite this, Ghost Rider has built up a myth that seems destined to endure: There are many in the motorcycle community that believe the real Ghost Rider died in an accident in 2005, whilst some of Stockholm's youth claim with conviction that he really is a ghost and can ride through walls to evade police.

Despite Ghost Rider's reputation of being unstoppable there have been multiple incidents while making the films; every film has been affected by at least one incident not shown on the DVDs, from crashing into a car crossing the street in the first movie to being busted by cops, (although claimed by the Ghost Rider people that this is not true, there are filmclips and witnesses to these incidents and the clip of the bust can easily be found on the internet, which have been claimed by fans as police propaganda).

Joakim Karlsson AKA Iceman

Many believe there was never just one 'Ghost Rider' in the movies, but a handful of highly experienced riders. They used identical motorcycles and riding gear to confuse Swedish police. Joakim Karlsson (AKA Iceman) who tragically lost his life at the Isle of Man TT races on May 30th 2005 is thought to be one such 'Ghost Rider' although this has never been confirmed by SWT.


Now here are Ghost Rider Video collection


Ghost rider Uppsala Run Part1



Ghost Rider Uppsala Run Part2


Ghost Rider - F*ck Police


Ghost Rider getting Busted



Ghost Rider Turbo 499Bhp hayabusa



Full ghost rider interview in nxt post, keep and eye for it ;) .

Plunk down $10,000 for this cycle

Brendan George with his Seven Aerios

What's the most you would pay for a bicycle that you would use to just tool around the neighborhood? How about $10,000?

According to a Lake County News-Sun survey of area bike shops, the Seven Aerios, which is assembled and on the floor for general purchase at Alberto's Cycles in Highland Park, is the most expensive ride that can be looked at and rolled out the door within minutes (assuming, of course, some form of payment is made).

The road bike, made by Boston's Seven Cycles, is specifically designed to be ultra light. Its frame is constructed of titanium, and according to Alberto's co-owner Brendan George, the entire bike weighs approximately 16.5 pounds.

Titanium frame itself costs $3500

The description of the bike on Seven's Web site says it is "a climber's dream ... a great choice for lighter riders and the weight obsessed."

One might naturally be of the opinion that anyone buying this costly of a bike would be using it for racing, long-distance or mountain riding, but George said that a bike such as the Aerios is "too expensive" for most racers.

"Bike racers," he said, "usually buy something perfectly functional in the $3,500 range."

That's the price of the Aerios frame and fork alone. George noted that most people would not risk damaging such an expensive bike in a race.

"This is a bike for someone who needs a nice, lightweight bike that they can ride all day," he said.

The Aerios on Alberto's showroom floor can be purchased as is, with all parts by the same bike maker. But it's more likely, George said, that whoever buys it will want it customized with mix and match parts for the seat, handlebars or stems.

"Our customers can cherry pick anything on a bike," he noted. "And I want to stress that anyone coming to our shop can get a custom-made bike for much less than this one."

There's also at least one that is even more costly. The Serotta Meivici, which is available via special order through Alberto's, comes with a price tag of $15,000. The store also has a Canondale road bike that approaches $10,000 in price.

The lone Aerios at Alberto's was put together and made available on the showroom floor as a bike that could be test ridden as well as purchased.

One might assume that a bike as pricey as the Aerios would tend to hang around, unsold, for a while. After all, you can get a very reliable car for that kind of money. But although the store is in no danger of adding a revolving door to accommodate sales of this model, it will, reportedly, move nicely.

George has been in the bicycle selling business since 1974, has been working at Alberto's since 1986 and assumed co-ownership of the business eight years ago, so he has a working grasp on what the high-end bike-selling business is all about.

"We're not super motivated to sell it," said George, "but I would estimate that it won't be on the floor more than 30 days. If it isn't sold by then I'd be surprised."


Source:- Suburbanchicagonews

Friday, June 29, 2007

Bio-fuel Royal Enfield Bullet 500cc

A LEDBURY motorbike enthusiast has done his bit for the planet by converting a classic motorbike to run on bio-fuel.

Trevor Williams, of the New Mills estate, took advice from local companies Dual Sport Motorcycles and Intime Engineering to install a special diesel engine into the 500 CC Royal Enfield Bullet motorbike.Trevor Williams with his Bio-Fuel Bullet

The bike is now being run in on bio-fuel he buys from Bransford Bio-Fuels Ltd at around 92p a gallon, compared to around £1 for diesel.

Mr Williams said the fuel was recycled from cooking oil and its use in his bike has doubled the miles to the gallon that the Enfield can manage up to an impressive 160 miles.

Mr Williams added: "You do get a drop in performance. Top speed is about 65 miles an hour and you do smell like a chip-shop when you go up the road.

"But the bike is carbon neutral. The only carbon it gives out is that which the plants have taken in, during their growing life.

"I care very much about the environment and I am very keen on recycling. If we don't all sort something out soon, we'll all be in trouble."

Now the self-employed mechanic is considering offering to convert other bikes to bio-fuels as a service.

Mr Williams himself has been considering doing a conversion for 20 years, but gained his final inspiration while watching Dick Strawbridge on the television show It's Not Easy Being Green.

Mr Williams said: "I thought, if you can convert a car to bio-fuels, why not a bike?"

The stunning motorbike he picked, though a classic 1950's design, is only two years old because the Enfield company in India carried on making them, after the British company closed.

Source:- ledburyreporter

India's only woman bike racer

Alisha Abdullah

17-year-old, Alisha Abdullah, is India's only woman bike racer, who zooms past men on the track!

She has not merely stormed a male bastion but Alisha Abdullah has actually been racing past her male competitors on her 115 cc four-stroke bike.

This 17-year-old Chennai college girl is the only woman bike racer on the current circuit. She has had quite a few podium finishes in the UCAL Rolon Racing Championships in Chennai and Coimbatore.

Alisha is leaving for Malaysia shortly for a week's training under former racer Barry Leong, a prelude to her entry into the FIM Championships, to be held in Indonesia, Malaysia and China.

Overtaking men

From go- karting to formula car racing to the world of bikes, she has lapped up life on the fast track especially when it comes to overtaking men.

"It's a great feeling when you defeat the boys and they put their heads down, some even with tears in their eyes. I love speed," said Alisha Abdullah, Bike Racer.

Racing runs in the Abdullah family. Alisha`s father was a seven time national motorbike champion.

He ensured that daughter dear's passion for racing was kick started when she was just eight.

"I noticed her potential when she was go-karting. I couldn't afford to have her continue with cars and bikes suited her well too." said R A Abdullah, Alisha's father.

The only speed breaker to this exciting career is the complete lack of sponsorship. But for now parental support is just about enough to help her chase her passion on her bike.

Source:- NDTV

SUZUKI to introduce limited edition Intruder M1800R

SUZUKI will introduce a limited edition of their Intruder M1800R.

Following its launch last year, where the 1783cc v-twin sold out in a matter of weeks, Suzuki GB have secured a limited run of the iconic model, featuring a special edition blue colour scheme with a retro white stripe.



At its launch, the M1800R was praised for its monstrous power and torque, while boasting the largest engine pistons of any passenger car or motorcycle on earth!


The recommended retail price of the M1800R is £9,399. Suzuki reckon this limited run model is expected to be one of the most sought after cruisers this year.


Only 75 Intruder M1800R special editions will come to the UK, featuring the Pearl Vigour Blue and Glass Splash White colour scheme.

Source:- Visordown

When Limited Edition is not Limited Enough

Fox fur hammocks, 22-carat gold woven belts, and white buffalo horn sunglasses. You can find all of these posh items at a new site called '20ltd', it carries only 20 items at a time, each made exclusively for the site and limited in their production.

F131 Hellcat Combat

When the site launched in April it debuted only twentyF131 Hellcat Combat by Matt Chambers' Confederate Motorcycle Company. I could list all of its specs, but we all know that all that really matters is how impressive it looks.

There are rumors that one London hedge fund manager has snagged every item on 20ltd since its launch. That's a lot of money if you consider that items sold on that site range from $5,000 to $80,000 (Rs 2L+ - 3Cr+!) .

TVS to launch new bikes, three-wheelers and e-bike

Addressing a press conference here on Thursday, Venu Srinivasan, Chairman and Managing Director, said TVS Motor would launch half-a-dozen new products over the next 12 months. An upgraded 160 cc Apache motorcycle had just been launched. It was planning one more upgrade of Apache, he said. The company would also come out with a bike in the executive segment in the second-half. It would launch another bike in the segment thereafter and they also plan to launch an electric bike at the end of this year and introduce two to three variants next year.

The much talked about entry into three-wheeler would now happen sometime in November. The Indonesian venture would launch two products, he added. Sales from the Indonesian venture would be around Rs. 300 crore (TVS was hoping to sell 75,000 bikes there this year). And, the revenue from three-wheeler sales from its Hosur plant would be around Rs. 70 crore (with projected sales of 10,000 units). Mr. Srinivasan said that TVS was hoping that the revenue from these two (Indonesian venture and three-wheeler) would gross Rs. 750 crore next year. Yet, the biggest increase in revenue would come from sales of bikes in the executive segment, he added.

TVS has started operations at a new plant in the northern Himachal Pradesh with an annual capacity of 400,000 units, which can later be scaled up to 600,000 units. The plant will help extend its presence in the northern states, it said.


Thursday, June 28, 2007

100 percent exclusive shots of 2008 Hayabusa




Specs Of 2008 Hayabusa:-

Engine: 1299cc, 4-stroke, four-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve, TSCC
Bore Stroke: 81.0 x 63.0mm
Compression Ratio: 11.0:1
Fuel System: Keihin/Denso Fuel Injection
Lubrication: Wet sump
Ignition: Digital/Transistorized
Transmission: 6-speed, constant mesh
Final Drive: #530 chain
Overall Length: 2140mm (84.3 in.)
Overall Width: 740mm (29.1 in.)
Overall Height: 1155mm (45.5 in.)
Seat Height: 805mm (31.7 in.)
Ground Clearance: 120mm (4.7 in.)
Wheelbase: 1485mm (58.5 in.)
Dry Weight: 217kg (478 lbs.) 218kg (480 lbs.) CA. model
Suspension Front: Inverted telescopic, coil spring, fully adjustable spring preload, 14-way adjustable rebound damping and 13-way adjustable compression damping
Suspension Rear: Link-type, gas/oil damped, fully adjustable spring preload, 22-way adjustable compression & rebound damping
Brakes Front: Dual hydraulic disc
Brakes Rear: Single hydraulic disc
Tires Front: 120/70-ZR-17
Tires Rear: 190/50-ZR-17
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21 liter (5.5 gal.) 19.0 liter (5.0 gal.) CA. model

Suzuki Introduces 1340cc Hayabusa and B-King,

2008 Suzuki 1340cc Hayabusa

If you are used to major motorcycle introductions occuring in the Fall, you will be shocked by what Suzuki announced today. An all-new 2008 Hayabusa featuring a 1340cc engine with a claimed twelve percent increase in performance headlines this late June announcement, along with the long-anticipated B-King naked bike (featuring a version of the same 1340cc motor),.The new GSX1300R Hayabusa is full of revisions, especially its engine. The ram-air-fed, liquid-cooled, DOHC, inline Four retains the same bore, 81.0mm, but gets 2mm more of stroke, up to 65.0mm, for an increased displacement of 1340cc.

The engine has four titanium (intake and exhaust) valves per cylinder, a compression ratio of 12.5:1, revised cam specs, Suzuki Dual Throttle Valves (SDTV) in the 44mm throttle bodies, two multi-hole fuel injectors per cylinder, a three-way Suzuki Drive Mode Selector switch and Suzuki’s “most powerful, most advanced digital fuel injection and engine management system” controlling it all.

In print, Suzuki claims a 12% increase in peak power and torque output for the new Hayabusa, and American Suzuki Vice President, Motorcycle and ATV Division Mel Harris told his dealers this equated to 195 horsepower, presumably at the crankshaft.

The big new Suzuki meets stringent emissions requirements with a new exhaust system, and the clutch now features a "slipper" feature to reduce engine braking on aggressive downshifts.

The GSX1300R also gets a revised twin-spar aluminum frame, a more rigid swingarm, a beefier rear subframe, fully-adjustable KYB suspension, radial-mount four-piston Tokico front brake calipers and more aerodynamic bodywork. Wheelbase is 58.5 inches (1485mm), rake is 24.2, trail is 98mm/3.9 inches, dry weight is 485 pounds and suggested retail price is $11,999.

Suzuki B-King

The B-King is a limited-edition streetbike based on a concept bike that was shown at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2001 and created so much demand it was put into production. The B-King shares the new Hayabusa’s 1340cc engine, but it gets a unique chassis and very unique styling.

Its twin-spar aluminum alloy frame is composed of five “precision cast” pieces, and its braced swingarm is formed with three “pressure cast” pieces. KYB supplies the three-way adjustable suspension (front and rear), and Tokico manufacturers the radial-mount four-piston front brake calipers. Rake is 25.5º, trail is 107mm/4.2 inches, wheelbase is 60.0 inches, dry weight is 518 pounds and claimed dry weight is $12,899.

Source:-
Motorcycledaily
Roadracingworld

Motorcycle engine replica + USB hub


You've got to hand it to Japan: they know how to make a unique gadget. You'd never see something like this USB Engine Hub coming out of America. It's just too nonsensical. But hey, things don't need to always make sense, right? This USB gadget is ideal for people that love gadgets and motors, vehicles, engines and more auto related kit.

SolidAlliance USB Engine Hub is a must have gadget for a bike lover

The SolidAlliance 3-port USB Engine Hub is modeled after a motorcycle engine and has some cool features which include a gear shift, kick starter and faux-engine revving effects which will drive everyone else in the room or office crazy. It rumbles and makes noises just like the real thing. Turn it on and listen to it rumble to life. Hit the throttle to get some more juicy engine noises. It's just like the real thing, sort of. Oh, and it's a USB hub. So you can run your USB gadgets through it if you need some extra ports on your computer. So that's a plus, right? Right. God bless Japan.

The SolidAlliance 3-port USB Engine Hub is now available in Japan for ¥5,250, which is around $43 or Rs 2,000 (approximately). You can also watch the video review in HD format below.



Wednesday, June 27, 2007

Pink vehicles are hot!

So, you thought you'd bid your adieus to the metrosexual male with the rough 'n' tough back in action. No sir, the feminine streak in the man refuses to die its death and this time round is manifesting itself in the colours men are buying for their vehicles. Thus the pinks, and the yellow , red, orange... and even a purple.

Gaurav Malhotra, a final-year graduation student who wouldn't have been caught dead with anything "girly" on his person not so long ago, is riding his purple scooterette with aplomb.
"I agree that purple is a feminine colour, but boy, does it have people staring at you or what!" exclaims Gaurav ensuring you that it was this zara hat ke effect that made him decide "to go for it" .

For interior designer Sandeep Agarwal however, yeh style ki baat hai. "It's all about style. I find these bright colours quite attractive and energetic.
In fact, my yellow coloured bike adds pleasure to my driving," he says. Of course it was his wife who insisted he buy the colour, but the man admits, "Even though I thought the colour would not complement my personality and make me look awkward, I haven't really regretted the decision."

Well-known automobile designer Dilip Chhabria however sees nothing wrong in men revealing the feminine in them.
"Of late I have noticed that men don't hesitate in buying feminine colours. But what's wrong in that? If a man can get himself a manicure and pedicure and still feel macho, why not buy a bright-coloured vehicle even if it looks like it was meant for a woman?" retorts Chhabria adding, "Mindsets have changed and men are no longer uncomfortable accepting their feminine choices or even flaunting them as style statements."

Informs Rakshit Ahuja, sales manager of a prominent automobile showroom, "Be it pink, purple, red, orange or green - the colours were introduced keeping in mind women buyers. But of late we have noticed that a lot of men are also preferring to buy vehicles in these colours. We're actually keeping more options and models with such colours in our showroom now."

And Shaqib Hussain, a automobile designer adds some colour of his own when he says, "Some of these shades are quite popular with the men too. I've had several clients asking me to revamp and re-paint their vehicles in these colours. They're different, they're bright and they're new, which make them quite the 'in' thing these days."

Source:- Timesofindia.indiatimes

Bajaj to roll on new wheels


A brand new product range and a new line up of stores is just one more facet of the image makeover that Bajaj Auto is going for while MD of the company Rajiv Bajaj has other plans going forward.

Bajaj Auto has set up seven pro-biking stores around the country and 20 more stores are planned by the end of this year. Overall the company is planning 55 stores.

Many of the Bajaj Auto's hopes of competing against chief rival Hero Honda are pinned on their new platform which will directly be competing in the 100 cc segment. However the slowdown in the two-wheeler segment and the margin pressures that auto makers have been facing in May and June continues to trouble Bajaj Auto.

They have already cut down their production by 10 per cent from two lakh bikes per month to about 1,70,000 units a month and they expect this trend to continue for at least a few more months. The festival season combined with their new launch may finally break the deadlock.

Aboard Pulsar 220 DTS-Fi we were able to hit 125km/hr on dyno and dyno was set with 250kg preload. Imagine this bike on road, it will easily cross 135km/hr

In the Bajaj Pulsar 220 DTS-Fi launch party yesterday Bajaj officials said bajaj is planning to launch some bike accessories. But they denied to comment on what accessories Bajaj is planning to launch. Our sources say that bajaj maybe launching performence add-ons for there bikes and also Bajaj branded Riding gear. The officials present at the event also said that Bajaj is planning to enter

With two wheeler margins under pressure Rajiv Bajaj may have to add wheels to boost profits a commercial vehicle might roll out in 2009 and maybe even a car. With Rs 60 crore invested in R&D Bajaj Auto drive up with surprises every year.

For the record, here is Pulsar 220 DTs-Fi Commercial which will be soon aired on TV.


Apache RTR 160 Showroom pics











Some points to be noted (pics and comments by rahul.cool).


1: The new RTR 160 feels really small now. i mean with rearset foot pegs and clip ons it feels smaller than Apache.

2: Meter console actually looks cheap with RVS racing written on it ..... i know it look good in photograph

3: Accelaration was no were close to my karizma... yeah it was better than Apache 150 but i don't think it will stand a chance in front of Pulsar 180 as claimed .

4: Exhaust note is different than previous apache and little thumpy.

Visit:- www.korruptryderz.org

5: Vibrations are much reduced but still too much .

6: Riding position is good for cummuting and racing :D .

7: Didn't ride it much but brakes were not effecting or it was the tyres???

8: Doesn't feel anything different with pedal disc but it had better bite than the pulsar dics, but tyres were losing grip every now and then.... Tvs must do something with those crappy tyres.

9: Fit and finish was too good so the attention to details.

10: overall good Bike for the price (62,750 on-road chennai) and very VFM.

Monday, June 25, 2007

Bajaj Auto launches Pulsar DTS Fi

The long awaited Pulsar 220 DTS-Fi

Today Bajaj Auto introduced its 220 cc motorcycle Pulsar DTS Fi model priced at Rs 81,280 (ex-showroom Delhi) and also opened its first official 'probiking' showroom here.

"The dispatches for the motorcycles have already started for all-India launch of the bike, after it was initially test marketed in Pune earlier this year," a company official said here.

The just-launched 'probiking' showroom is the seventh one across the country and the only official probiking in Delhi.

Probiking showroom of Bajaj is an exclusive dealer shop to provide complete biking experience to the customers.

The Pulsar DTS Fi is the first bike in the Indian market to have both front and rear disc brakes and the worlds only under 600cc vehicle to have DTSi coupled with fuel injection.

Also check out Pulsar 220`s offical website on www.mypulsar.com

Sunday, June 24, 2007

Suzuki to launch scooters and superbikes

Indian two-wheeler market is set to witness more competition with Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt Ltd (SMIPL) planning to roll out a 125cc scooter by September, a 150cc motorcycle and its superfast hyperbike Hayabusa by March next year.

Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt Ltd Vice-President Sales and Marketing Atul Gupta said "We are aiming to plug the gap between 100cc and 150cc segment in scooters. By September, we plan to launch a 125cc variometric scooter," .

He said the scooters from Suzuki would be positioned as a family vehicle through its "powerful features and high mileage as USP", while still targeting the youth.

"This segment has not been tapped by anyone and we see a potential in that segment," he said, adding the company expected scooters to contribute about 20 per cent in its overall target of 1.2-1.3 lakh units in 2007-08.

On the motorcycle front, Gupta said the company was looking at bringing high powered bikes, starting with a new 150cc model to compete with the likes of Bajaj Pulsar and Hero Honda's CBZ Xtreme by March 2008 to add a youth-driven product in its portfolio.

Gupta also said launching of super premium bikes from the stable of Suzuki in India was very much a possibility in the near future with the government's relaxation of norms for importing 800cc-and-above bikes.

"If all the aspects go well, including our own service and spare parts, then the likes of Hayabusa (1,300cc) and GXR (1,000 cc) could be brought in here by March 2008," he said.

Source:- Timesofindia.indiatimes

Saturday, June 23, 2007

Chopper Chick Crew to Live Build a Chopper

The Chopper Chick Crew will conduct a live charity bike build at Rockefeller Center for a July 14th Satuday Edition of the NBC Today Show

On the July 14th Saturday Edition of the NBC Today Show, the Chopper Chick Crew will reunite for yet another charity bike build. This time they will build a motorcycle in the heart of New York City at Rockefeller Center, right outside the NBC studios. The Bike will be a kit that was donated by Bikers Choice and will put the women to the test again with a live audience watching. Ultimately the completed bike will be auctioned off with all of the proceeds going to the Boys and Girls Club. The bidding for the bike will begin on July 14th and continue to accept bids up until October where the winning bidder will be announced at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino during the annual bikerbash celebration.

The Chick Crew consists of Athena Ransom of Vagabond Chopper Co., who has been around motorcycles her entire life and riding since she was seven; Joann Bortles of Crazy Horse Painting, an award winning painter whose work has been featured in magazines such as Easyriders, Ironworks, and American Iron; Jayme Gray from Pussycat Choppers, an avid motorcyclist with a degree from MMI and extensive V-Twin experience; Katie Putnam from Mitch Bergeron's, another MMI degree holder with tons of mechanical experience; and Sarah Lyon from Magnum Cycles in Kentucky, a creative, self taught mechanic. All five of whom are dedicated to building "The Pink Ribbon Chopper."

"We are very excited to be building this bike in Rockefeller and have it auctioned off with the proceeds going to the Boys and Girls Club. I believe that the Chopper Chick Crew as a whole has the opportunity to show the public that women have broken away from traditional roles. We are very proud of the work that we do and that will be evident in the finished bike," said Athena Ransom of Vagabond Choppers.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County (BGCBC) is a non-profit 501(c) (3) private agency, dedicated to helping young people improve their lives by building self-esteem and developing values and skills during their critical period of growth. Serving more than 13,000 at-risk youth, ages 7-18, each year from its 13 Broward County-area clubs, its purpose is to inspire and enable children to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens. Chosen as the #1 youth agency in the country three years in a row by The Chronicle of Philanthropy and one of the best run non-profit agencies in a study by Fortune 500, BGCBC keeps 98 percent of all raised funds in Broward County. Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County is located at 877 NW 61st Street Fort Lauderdale, Fl 33309.

Source:- MotorcycleUSA

Wheeliezone

"Get it up! Wanna be cool, get a fan following and have chicks fall all over you? we tell u how to bring that front end up and rate the five hottest bikes to do the coolest wheelies with."

Technique:-
So you wanna learn to wheelie? You want to look ultra cool and hope the chicks notice you. Chances are the places you could do a wheelie will have no chicks sitting around to take a look at your insanity. If they are around, there is bound to be little or no place to pop one.

But you still want to wheelie, no matter what. Well, there are lessons - lessons and more lessons but nothing that works like real life experience. At least that�s how I learnt to wheelie. Riding an uncle�s RX100 as teenager, excitement got the better of my learning curve and I twisted that throttle hard and popped the clutch too hard in his parking lot and woah!, up went the front wheel. The rush was so addictive, it�s a habit I hope never to kick.

Initially being scared out of my wits though only goaded me to perfect the art. Or craft. I do not want to instruct you on how far you can go; those are limits you are going to have to explore yourself. But here are some basic instructions to get started.
Hemank of 'Gravity Warriors' can pull some amazing wheelies on his Honda Dio

Any and every bike available in the Indian market can wheelie. Geared and automatic scooters too, as any one will endorse. However just getting the front wheel off the ground is kid stuff. What you need is to be able to hold that wheel in the air as you travel on. And on, on one wheel.

STEP 1: Getting the wheel up:-
Like I said before, getting the front wheel up is easy. However we lack large capacity bikes with fantastic power to weight ratios. And Indian bikes� abilities to wheelie easily are limited. The average motorcycle in the Indian market makes barely enough power to do a rolling wheelie, where you are in motion and then pick up the front end. Most wheelies are generally done from standstill.

The basic wheelie requires sound technique to pull off. Since we are not in Rossi`s league it is necessary to sharpen one�s riding skills to exercise precise throttle control. This is paramount if you want to avoid flipping backward. It is also important to distribute one�s weight on the bike. That means positioning oneself just right. On our capacity bikes especially, transferring body weight as far back as possible takes the weight off the front end, making it easier to lift off. But take care not to go too far over into 'FOZ' (flip over zone).

Here�s when it gets tricky. Hold in the clutch lever and blip the throttle keeping the engine at the peak of its power band. Release the clutch lever instantly, a technique called popping the clutch, and watch as your front wheel lift off the ground. The trick here is in the timing. Pop the clutch the instant you feel the power surge at its max, not as you are bringing up the revs, nor when the revs are dropping. Keep at it, all the time controlling your right wrist so as not to overdo it and fall off. Ideally practice away from public view till you perfect the art.

A word of caution to rank beginners: avoid holding the throttle at max. Rather try popping the clutch at various stages of throttle action, increasing the revs as you gain confidence. Get a feel of how much throttle you need to apply to pick up the front wheel. Holding the throttle to max revs may result in nasty experiences if you are not sure at what point your bike will wheelie. Also be prepared to fall, incur some damage to your bike and most importantly get your ego and body used and bruised. This is no bed of roses and learning this art will claim its pound of flesh.
So you got that first step right and are now able to catch some air. Then it�s time to move on to step two: looking good.

STEP 2: ROLLING WHEELIES
Getting up from standstill is the easy part but doing a wheelie on the move is visually quite stunning. Again Indian bikes don�t carry enough power to pop that wheel any place any time, so you have to adopt a technique that will get you above thr ground. Roll forward, keeping your revs and speed low, in most cases below or just cruising at around 30kmph, then jab the rear brake for an instant. This is very important as what it does is loads up the rear spring, compressing the ride height at the rear and lightening up the front, making it all the more easy for the front end to lift off (u dont need to do this if ur wheeling a Pulsar 180/200/220 or karizma),. In the same motion keep the revs up till you feel the power surge and pop the clutch. Wheeelieee...!

Again timing is essential and the three steps need to be synchronised to perfection to get those striking tilts.

STEP 3: keeping it up
Getting that wheel high into the air is simple once you know how. But keeping it up there is what will truly make it visually stunning. Yes, there are techniques to do it but in the end it all boils down to how well you are able to control your bike. There are limits here as well and same as before these are governed by the power your bike makes. Without sufficient power you may not be able to carry a wheelie for long but again there are tricks to bypass this. Once you have your wheel up in the air don�t cut the throttle or this will cause the bike to settle back on the ground. Rather keep the throttle open and learn to balance the bike on one wheel. It�s not simple but practice will get you there. On smaller bikes you also need to be able to control the clutch action, even having to burn the clutch in some cases to keep the bike hovering in the power band. The minute your bike gets out of the powerband, newtons law of gravity will take effect.

Well, that�s it for now though there are more tricks out there which we will keep for another edition. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and rise to the thrill.

We strongly advise those attempting these stunts to use safety riding gear and this includes most importantly a helmet, riding jacket and ankle length riding shoes. we take no responcibility of u crashing or breaking ur bones and bike.


five hottest bikes to do the coolest wheelies with:-

1.) Yamaha Gladiator
Yamaha Gladiator type J.A

In the new executive segment Yamaha`s new Gladiator is the best there is to pull off some big air. Like all Yamaha products the Gladiator has a refined engine and superb mechanicals. Clutch action is very progressive and smooth without any jerkiness. It�s also got one of the best riding positions around with the handlebars raised a little above the level of the seat which makes it easy to bend forward, rev, pop the clutch and pull back on the handlebars simultaneously. This is one technique you can adopt on bikes which do not make much power. These attributes and its styling basically makes it one of the best wheelie machine in its category. Smooth gear shift also ensures that you can easily carry on riding perched on just one wheel. With just 10.8Bhp on tap its got just about enough juice to start climbing. Though it would do to give it some aid. Warm up the rear tyre well and look for a good hot patch of tarmac or else the rear wheel can slip when you pop the clutch reducing the height of the wheelie.

Doing a rolling start is also possible though not as easily as on the other bikes in this review. The rear suspension is soft though not so much as to hamper ride quality but for popping rolling wheelies it is ideal. When you pump the rear brake pedal the rear suspension compresses quite a bit making the front really light.


2.) TVS APACHE 150
Sherry pulling a wheelie on his Apache

Apache is like a small crotch rocket. She is really impressive with the amount of air she can catch between front wheel and tarmac. Sporting a 147.5cc engine that makes 13.5Bhp, kerb weight of 136kg and that short wheelbase really helps. On the flip side the max power comes in at a high 8500rpm and that means you need to rev her quite hard to get her juices flowing. Also avoid wheeling on damp surfaces since the Apache has a wide rear section which takes time to warm up thus reducing the grip, find a good dry stretch with nice tarmac, the stock TVS tyres are no good and dont have much grip. And grip is very important if you want to get max tilt with ease. Replace the rear tyre with a better tyre like pirreli sports deamon, u will be amazed byt this small bike`s wheelie capabilitys.

The shift quality is not good, so it wil take some time to learn to shift on this bike while wheelieng. Otherwise, She needs little or no encouragement to get cracking and she is quite impressive to look at from all angles.


3.) Bajaj PULSAR 180DTSi
Overcharged pulling a 12`O clock wheelie on his Pulsar 180 DTS-i.


We are now in the indian bike bike territory. Starting off with the Pulsar 180 DTS-i which needs little encouragement to take flight.

Wheelie maniacs around the nation swear by the abilities of the 180 to pull some of the highest and longest wheelies possible on Indian bikes.

The 180 DTS-i which makes 16.5Bhp of max power quite easily lifts off in first gear and with 14Nm of torque you can shift into second gear and keep trailing the wheelie for as long as you can hold the front wheel up. Further, power starts rushing in from quite low down the rev band with its strong low and mid range torque characteristics. Other than the high power and torque ratings it is the short ratios of the gear box that aid this character. Throttle responses are so sharp that it is hard to keep the bike down if you are the signal light racer type and you need supreme control to stop the front wheel from rising.

Riding position too comes in handy and you really do not need to shift your weight further behind to get going on your wheelies. The fat rear rubber cleanly lays down every bit of usable power down on the tarmac without losing any to tyre slippage.

Rolling wheelies pose no problems for this stylised hustler and she can just as easily lift off from speeds of 20-30kmph in 2nd gear which makes her all the more impressive.
One aspect of the Pulsar to watch for is the gearbox and riding the clutch too hard can do loads of harm to your bike.

A word of caution to the uninitiated: exercise extreme control if you are trying to wheelie the 180. The throttle fires up the engine and lays down the power to the rear instantaneously and the front end is quite light so there is little time to gauge how high the 180 would climb and you could quite easily end up with the Pulsar riding you rather than the other way around. Such is the beastly power of the 180 DTS-i.


4.) Hero Honda KARIZMA


The Karizma is the ultimate poser�s bike and her ability to do most everything is uncanny. And her wheelie-ing abilities make her one of the hottest machines. With around 16.7Bhp on tap, the right suspension, super smooth clutch, slick gears and that long wheelbase that gives her a sports bike stance, every aspect of a Karizma screams wheelie..

There�s good amount of power manifesting itself at the rear wheel and it does not even need to break into a sweat to release the front from the tarmac. No need of revving her till she gets into the powerband; just twist the wrist, pop the clutch and you�re up there in lotus land.

The long wheelbase, wide and long tank and short handlebars by default ensure your body weight is already transferred amidships and towards the rear. The gearing too ensures she stays up without having to keep sending the engine sharp throttle inputs. You can shift down to second gear and still keep her going. The one grouse is that the bike is too tall at full tilt and it�s impossible to see where you�re headed, so take heed.

In the Indian context the Karizma is by far the 2nd best wheelie tool. She looks good, rides easy and can really pop large and long ones.

5.) Bajaj Pulsar DTS-fi 220
Soulreaper wheelies 220

Want advice? Beg, borrow or steal and get a Bajaj Pulsat Dts-Fi 220 if you want to wheelie. She.. err... HE can do any stunt u can imagine on a bike. And his wheelie-ing abilities make his the BEST wheelie machine. With 20Bhp on tap, the awesome nitrox suspention, super smooth clutch, slick gears and that long wheelbase makes u feel like Pulsar 220 is made to stay on one wheel.

Pulling wheelies on this bike is extremely easy. U can pull 2nd gear wheelies without trying much.

The long wheelbase, wide MRF tubeless rear tyre (a massive 120/80) and and very low clip-on handle and that sporty riding position makes sure ur body weight goes to the rear wheel. The short gearing ensures u can keep the frotn end up easily. You can shift to 3rd gear and still keep her going. Controling 12`O clocks is very easy because of the rear disk brake.

Pulsar 220 is by far the best wheeli bike u can get in India, as i said before, Beg, borrow or steal and get a Bajaj Pulsat Dts-Fi 220.

Chrome introduces urban riding shoes line

Chrome, a pioneer of messenger bags and urban riding clothing for the last 14 years, enters the footwear category with the introduction a new shoe model called the Chrome "Milo" that is designed to meet the needs of urban bicycling.

The Chrome Milo features a vulcanized multi-directional, natural rubber sole for exceptional grip and durability; loose-lined stitching for ventilation and to reduce the amount of glue used; an injection-molded heel "slam pad" for optimal heel cushion and high impact absorption; an a-symmetrical toe wrap that protects high wear areas; and a custom-designed foot bed for heat transfer and comfort.

According to Mark Falvai, co-founder of Chrome, "Outside of the graphics, there's very little thought that goes into most slip-ons. Most brands just use off-the-shelf molds from factory show-rooms."

"There's been little innovation in the construction of slip-ons. We really wanted to do something different and build a new kind of urban shoe. One with style but more importantly one that makes your feet feel good."

Chrome committed to design shoes from the ground up: no pre-set molds, no secondary factories, no crappy materials, no compromises, period. Over the last year, Chrome tested and tweaked the construction of the Milo to ensure ultimate comfort and durability.

"From the beginnings of BMX to the present urban bike culture, Chrome has been raised on Vans. After buying our 300th pair, we started to think thatthe old classic was in need of an update. We made these shoes for all the people working in bike shops, coffee joints, and record stores -- people who bike around the city and then work on their feet all day. There's a lot more to come, this is just the beginning." said Chrome GM, Brian Jennings.

Source:- Fibre2fashion

Friday, June 22, 2007

HMSI in Indian Overdrive

With the motorcycle market being hit the hardest by interest rates, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India's newly appointed president & CEO Shinji Aoyama has many challenges to face.

From getting out of the shackles of the past labour problems to creating a strong Honda brand, Mr Aoyama has plans further strengthen the Honda brand.

What are the investment plans of Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI)?

We plan to invest about Rs 400 crore in the next 4 years. This fund would be used for ramping up our marketing initiatives, expanding our current plant capacity and new product developments.

HMSI was looking at setting up a new plant in India? What are the updates on that?

There is no plan for setting up another plant as of now. We will ramp up capacity in our current plant from 9 lakh units to about 1.2 million units in the next four years.

What are the new models that you plan to launch in the near future?

We plan to launch a new scooter model by the end of this fiscal year. We are planning to launch a new motorcycle by the first half of the next year. This could be in the 125 cc segment and would be targeted at the young generation.

What are your plans for the volume segment or what we call the 100 cc segment?

Yes we plan to enter the volume segment in the next three years. But we would not be looking volumes initially. As we would not like to cannibalise the offerings from sibling company Hero Honda in this segment. We would be looking at distinctive products , something which is niche or is the premium 100 cc segment.

What is your current motorcycle and scooter volumes?

Currently we sell about 6 lakh units of scooters and 3 lakh units of motorcycles. Last month we sold about 73,000 units. We would add more models to our current scooter models Activa and Dio and our motorcycle models of Unicorn and Shine.

What are your plans for the big bike segment ? Do you think there is a market for such bikes and when do you plan to launch them ? How much would these bikes cost?

We are looking at importing big muscle bikes which would cost Rs 10 lakh and above. We are considering importing models like CBR 1000 and GLX 1800 to India. Yes there is a very niche market for big bikes that we plan to cater to by importing models.

Two years back HMSI faced one of the worst labour unrest in the history of automotive industry . What are the measures that you are taking to sort out matters?

Labour problems are a thing of the past.Last year we signed a labour settlement agreement with our permanent workers and now everything is working smoothly.This agreement is valid for the next three years.

Source:- Auto.Indiatimes.com

Striped warrior: TVS Apache RTR 160 - Hands on

At long last, a racing black stripe and red rim rings boldly announce TVS`s fresh approach to motorcycling.

Bring out the hair dye, carve out a tattoo and pull up some low-waist jeans and you conjure up the carefree youth of today.Dive into his mind and it doesn`t take an Einstein to realise that his needs from a bike are rather unique - his machine has to be a rebel, zippy and also one that won`t dent his pocket. The all-new Apache RTR 160 is TVS Motor Company`s effort to meet this young indian head-on.

New Digital Speeedo

Why Abadon an image that`s nicely accepted? The RTR looks very similar to its predecessor, yet it infuses an extra dollop of sporty character into the original Apache platform. Styling changes are few but well executed, like a racy Ford GT like stripe bisecting this sharply chiselled bike from head to tail.There`s also the black theme thats fast becoming de regueur across bike segments. Move closer and RTR delights with thin prinstripes running along the wheels as well as bright rear suspention springs. The new Apache instruments are digital, with the rev counter remaining analogue. Twin trip recorders, a fuel counter, time-clock, digital speedometer, odometer, neutral icon, high beam icon, turn signal icon, low fuel warning, low battery warning,
and even a service due warning icon are on offer within this amber backlit display. And voila!, its cockpit is far smarter, with clip-on handlebars and all-alloy steering clamp section bearing the new RTR logo. Highlights include smart mirrors, fantastic alloy-finished levers and adequate grips (sweet!), while switchgear remains standard.

Fancy alloy footpegs and rear brake lever lend a touch of class

Classy touches are an alloy brake pedal and alloy footrests. The Apache RTR retains an identical fuel tank and body panels, but has now upgraded to clear lens turn indicators, and an LED tail-light system on its raised butt. The rear fender and silencer exit area are altered while the numberplate region is now illumnated.
RTR 160`s smart looking aloly finish levers.

The old Apache motor adopts a new cowl and has undergone major changes, to up capcacity from previous 147.5cc to 159.7cc on the new RTR. The larger capacity RTR uses a short-stroke mantra to become quicker-revving. This air-coled and twin-valve unit has recieved several internal tweaks, including attention lavished on its inlet and exhaust ends, clutch and gear processes as well as the combustion chamber. The gearbox remains a 5-speed unit, shifting in the ubiquitous one-down and four-up patters the RTR 160 differing from the Apache 150 to use a sporty toe shift lever.
All-new 159.7cc short stroke engine

Thumb the RTR motor to life at idle speeds and its apparent much fine-tuning has gone into achieving a perfect and powerful exhaust beat. The clutch feels well weighted, and completely judder-free even when strained to launch the bike hard for quick acceleration. gearshifting is efforless too. The new RTR 160 shares gear ratios with the Apache 150, filling them better with its now 15.2Bhp peak power developed at 8500rpm. while our stint with the bike was limited to few hours, the RTR felt like it accelerated convincingly faster than all its smaller 150cc segement rivals. RTR is acronym for Rapid Throttle Response and the bike lives up to its name with its quick response from any region in powerband. Power delievery kicks in close above idle, building viciously with a small step in its mid-range as revs rise to a scream when pulling towards the red line. The short-stroke motor holds high revs with ease and loves being given the stick. We were pleased to find the new RTR offering enough oomph to still display stout pull while shifting from 4th to 5th gear just under its red-line at speeds hovering around 100kmph
mark. We have yet to strap any test gear to the new bike, our guess is that it should achieve a top-whack somewhere close to 115kmph. Vibes seemed to be isolated to bearable limits, no doubt helped by the RTR`s use of rubber mounting for its footrests.


Ergonomics are unlike any 150cc, with the RTR 160`s footrests being clearly rear-set, and its clip-on handlebars dropping the rider significatly lower than on the Apache 150. Its worth mentioning the riding position can be slightly altered using simple tools to shift the handlebars a few millimeters. Tall riders will enjoy the `bars set slightly further away from them.

New gas charged rear shocks

These changes make the rider sit further into the riding saddle which helps the inner thighs grip the tank surface in a better manner. Riders who don`t like sporty bikes will be advised to skip the RTR 160 and stick to bikes like Honda Unicorn and Hero Honda Achiever.

With its added power, the RTR stretches its twin-downtube frame closer to its limits, and wheelbase on the new bike is up to 1300mm, with the use of a 17-inch front rim and 18-inch rear, loaded with TVS rubber. Kerb weight is enarly the same, while suspention front and rear has been reworked extensively to embrace the new sporty character, but remains similar format front telescopic forks and twin gas-charged rear shock absorbers mated to a rectangle section swingarm . While our purely trackside experience on the RTR was too brief to pass concrete judgement on its ride quality, this TVS felt like it was set on sporty and firm side, with impoved straightline stability and sure-footed and neutral cornering manners.

Petal front disk brake makes its debut in India

Brakes have been beefed up considerably, with massive 270mm petal disk used in front, and rear retaining its 130mm drum. Brake feel is potent and razor-sharp, the bike managing to hold a straight line even under heavy emergency stops. A petal disk arrangement helps the disc rotor disperse heat faster and makes its appearance in India for the first time

Seen overall, the Apache RTR 160 makes a clear disvergence from TVS' Philosophy. Rather than half-hearted job trying to keep everyone happy with sporty as well as little commuter-friendly personality bliend in, this model makes a bolder
statement. The RTR is not here to please the commuter. This TVS is clearly going to delight the discerning biker, with racy styling, a relatively large bore, quick revving short-stroke powerplant and sporty riding stance. the Latest Apache should become the sought-after true-blue sports bike among its competitors- and lends itself nicely to the phrase 'race on Sunday, sell on Monday'.

Pics and review from Auotocar India May 2007

Yamaha plans to launch a 150cc bike by mid-2008

In yet another bid to capture marketshare in India’s two-wheeler market, Japanese bikemaker Yamaha Motorcycles India Ltd plans to launch a 150cc motorcycle by mid-2008 after showcasing in the next Auto Expo to be held in Delhi in January next year. The proposed bike would use the four-valve engine of the company’s Viper range and resemble the Yamaha R1.

The new bike would offer about 14 bhp, industry sources said, and would take Bajaj Auto’s flagship Pulsar and Hero Honda’s CBZ X-treme and Karizma head-on. Yamaha is likely to price the upcoming bike around Rs 80,000-90,000 to give it a distinct identity.

“We are still giving final touches to the specifications such as styling and engine and hence feel that it would be premature to comment on the same at this point of time,” said a Yamaha India official.

“In accordance with Yamaha’s image and expectations of customers, the company is planning to launch the new products for niche markets,” he added. Yamaha is all set to launch two superbikes — YZF-R1 (1000 cc and MT-01 (1670 cc) this calendar year.

Yamaha India has constantly been losing sales on a monthly basis, registering a decline of 59.4% in May this year. During May, the company sold 13,649 bikes. During April-May, the company’s total sales plunged by 55.77% to 26,962 units.

“To sell such a premium product Yamaha would have to revamp its whole distribution network so that the customers may find the showrooms inviting enough and can trust the dealer for service and maintenance of such a high-value product,” said Pradeep Saxena, senior vice-president, TNS Automotive.

In a dealer satisfaction survey carried by TNS in the end-2006, Yamaha ranked second from the bottom, next to Kinetic. The performance segment comprising Hero Honda Karizma, Bajaj Avenger and the Pulsar 200 is about 1 lakh units per annum.

Source:- Economictimes.Indiatimess

Thursday, June 21, 2007

2007 BMW K1200R Sport tested by MotorcycleUSA


I have been a big fan of website 'MotorcycleUSA' right from the first time i saw there site. This time they have brought us a full blown roadtest of 2007 BMW K1200R Sport. The latest Inline-Four offering from BMW, the K1200R Sport is a versatile mount which they took for a 1000-mile test ride on the freeway, backroads, and track.


REad the full roadtest of 2007 BMW K1200R here:- MotorcycleUSA

The new Sport is a half-faired hybrid of its K-series siblings - the K1200S and K1200R.