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Showing posts with the label motorcycle riding

BMW's Head-First Scooter Concept Could Be a Constant Hazard

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A Bold Concept, But Is It Practical? The BMW Motorrad Vision CE Concept has been introduced with a bold claim: it aims to make helmets and protective clothing unnecessary. However, the question remains—have actual humans tested this vehicle in real-world conditions? This concept is not just an unusual design; it's a radical departure from traditional motorcycle engineering. The idea of a fully enclosed electric scooter that eliminates the need for personal protective equipment is intriguing, but does it hold up under scrutiny? For many, the appeal of unconventional vehicles lies in their ability to challenge norms and spark imagination. The CE-04 and CE-02 models have already taken a different path compared to other BMW motorcycles, so why not push the envelope further with something even more experimental? However, the Vision CE Concept seems to blur the line between innovation and impracticality. A Design That Raises More Questions Than Answers The Vision CE Concept looks lik...

Could This Hydrogen Fuel Cell Revolutionize Motorcycles?

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Breakthrough in Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology Researchers from Japan have made a significant breakthrough in hydrogen fuel cell technology, potentially paving the way for more practical and scalable applications. This development could revolutionize clean mobility, especially for motorcycles and powersports vehicles. Hydrogen has long been seen as a promising alternative to traditional fossil fuels. Automakers like Toyota and Honda have been showcasing hydrogen fuel cell cars for years, while companies such as Yamaha and Kawasaki have explored hydrogen engines and even built hydrogen-fueled prototypes. Despite these efforts, the technology has remained too expensive and complex for everyday use. One of the main challenges with hydrogen fuel cells is the issue of heat. The most efficient type, known as a solid-oxide fuel cell (SOFC), requires operating temperatures above 700 degrees Celsius. At such high temperatures, special and costly materials are needed to prevent damage. While t...

Buell Motorcycles Returns with Potential Super Cruiser Launch

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A New Era for Buell: The Super Cruiser Buell has a long history of pushing boundaries and challenging conventions. From its inception in the 1980s, the brand was known for bold ideas and a strong racing heritage. It carved out a unique niche in the motorcycle world by refusing to follow the crowd. While not every concept worked, Buell’s willingness to take risks set it apart from the competition. The brand faced a major setback when Harley-Davidson discontinued its production in 2009. This marked a difficult period for Buell, as the company struggled with uncertainty, failed attempts at revival, and questions about its future. However, Buell has shown resilience and determination, working tirelessly to reestablish itself in the market. Now, the brand is back with a new project that has captured the attention of riders and enthusiasts alike—the Buell Super Cruiser. This model has been in development for several years, with its launch timeline stretching longer than many anticipated. ...

Royal Enfield Unveils First Electric Motorcycle in Testing Phase

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Royal Enfield’s Flying Flea C6 Takes on the Challenges of Ladakh Royal Enfield has made it clear that the Flying Flea C6 is a serious contender in the electric motorcycle market. To prove its mettle, the company recently put the bike through rigorous testing on the steep mountainous roads of Ladakh, India. This test was not just about showcasing the bike’s performance but also about demonstrating its capability to handle extreme conditions. The Flying Flea C6 is finally being shown in motion, and this time it's not a spy shot or grainy leak. The brand itself released a video capturing the bike as it navigated through challenging terrains such as steep climbs, sharp descents, and mountain switchbacks. While this footage is exciting, it still feels like another carefully crafted tease from the company. For months, Royal Enfield has been teasing the Flying Flea C6, and despite this new test footage, the big question remains: when will it actually hit the showrooms? A Name Rooted i...

Introducing the Dragon: The Dope All-Carbon Motorcycle Helmet

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Introducing the LS2 Dragon: A New Era of Protection and Performance LS2 has long been known for its commitment to creating high-quality, affordable motorcycle helmets. While it may not have the decades-long racing heritage of some European brands, the company has carved out a unique space in the market by focusing on safety, style, and accessibility. Since its emergence in the early 2000s from Spain, LS2 has grown into one of the most recognized names in the helmet industry, earning the trust of riders around the world. The brand’s philosophy has always been simple: deliver gear that is safe, stylish, and affordable. This approach has resonated with everyday riders who want reliable protection without breaking the bank. For many, including myself, LS2 has been a trusted companion throughout their motorcycling journey. My first helmet was an LS2 Stream Evo, and over the years, I’ve owned several others, such as the Rapid, the Pioneer, and the Strobe. Each model served its purpose well...

Triumph Unveils Exclusive Off-Road Motorcycle Editions Soon

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The Return of the Triumph Tiger 900: Alpine and Desert Editions Triumph has a long-standing history with its Tiger line, but it wasn’t until recently that the model truly found its place in the adventure bike market. With the growing popularity of adventure bikes, more riders are looking for machines that can handle both on-road and off-road adventures. Triumph has been quick to capitalize on this trend, offering models that cater to everything from desert racing to mountain trails. The Tiger 900 has become a strong contender in the ADV (Adventure) segment, thanks to its versatility and performance. Whether it's tackling events like the 1000 Dunas or Baja España Aragón, or simply being a reliable weekend ride, the Tiger has proven itself as a capable and stylish option. This momentum has led Triumph to release new special editions for the 2026 model year. New Special Editions: Alpine and Desert According to recent Swiss homologation filings, Triumph is set to introduce two new ...

Indian Motorcycle Unveils Smaller Harley-Davidsons

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The Evolution of the Harley-Davidson 440 Range The Harley-Davidson 440 range, developed in partnership with Hero MotoCorp, is on the verge of expanding with a new model expected to be unveiled this September. This collaboration has already made waves in the motorcycle industry, marking a significant shift in how global brands approach emerging markets. Hero MotoCorp, known for its dominance in the Indian two-wheeler market, has been instrumental in bringing the Harley-Davidson name to a broader audience. This partnership has not only introduced a new segment of riders to the brand but has also redefined what it means to own a Harley-Davidson. The X440, launched in India in 2023, was a pivotal step in this journey. It featured a 440cc air-oil-cooled single-cylinder engine that delivered around 27 horsepower and 28 pound-feet of torque. Designed for real-world riding conditions and budget-conscious buyers, the X440 aimed to make the Harley experience more accessible. This model opened...

Chinese Scooter Mimics Italjet Dragster Design

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A New Era for Motorcycle Manufacturing QJ Motor is set to launch the 700 Dragster in China, marking a significant development in the motorcycle industry. This model is essentially a rebadged version of the Italjet Dragster 700 Twin, and the collaboration has been officially approved by Italjet. At first glance, the blurry image of the QJ Motor 700 Dragster might have seemed like another Chinese imitation of the Italjet Dragster. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that this is not just a simple copy. QJ Motor, one of the largest motorcycle manufacturers in China, is known for its brands such as Benelli, Keeway, and MBP. More importantly, QJ Motor is the official distributor of Italjet in China, making this partnership legitimate. The QJ Motor 700 Dragster closely resembles the Italjet Dragster 700 Twin. It features the same 693cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, a 6-speed foot shifter, chain drive, steel trellis frame, Marzocchi suspension, Brembo brakes, and twin e...

Moroccan PM Ends Controversial Motorcycle Surveillance Initiative

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Suspension of Motorcycle Enforcement Campaign in Morocco On Thursday, a significant decision was made by the government to temporarily halt a campaign targeting motorcycles, following widespread public backlash. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, aimed at addressing the issue of illegally modified motorcycles that were being used to exceed speed limits. The campaign focused on motorcycles that had been altered to increase their speed capabilities. Authorities utilized advanced technology to monitor and measure the speed of these vehicles. According to the regulations, compliance was defined as not exceeding 58 km/h. Any motorcycle found to be traveling faster than this limit faced severe consequences. This included impounding the vehicle, filing a violation report, and forwarding the case to the public prosecutor. In addition, offenders could face financial penalties ranging from 5,000 to 30,000 dirhams, along with potential prison sentences of up to a ye...

Could This Tiny Roadster Work in the US?

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A New Era for the Yezdi Roadster The Yezdi Roadster has recently undergone an update in India, sparking curiosity about its potential in other markets. As small bikes continue to gain popularity, it raises the question: could this retro-inspired machine find a place in the United States? Many riders spend time browsing international motorcycle websites, drawn to vintage models that seem to exude charm and nostalgia. The new Yezdi Roadster is likely to elicit similar reactions from American riders. Although it may not yet be available at local dealerships, the brand carries a rich history that adds to its allure. In the 1960s, Rustom and Farrokh Irani introduced Jawa motorcycles to India under the Yezdi name. These two-stroke machines became iconic for their durability and unique sound. While production ceased in the mid-1990s, the legacy of Yezdi never faded. By 2022, the brand was revived by Classic Legends, a subsidiary of Mahindra & Mahindra. This company specializes in resu...

If You Can Ride a Motorcycle, You Can Fly a Helicopter—This Program Shows It

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The Intersection of Motorcycling and Helicopter Flying Flying a helicopter requires a unique set of multitasking skills, similar to those needed when riding a motorcycle. Rogue Aviation believes this connection is real, and they offer an immersive experience where motorcyclists can try their hand at flying a helicopter without any prior flight training. The “Pilot Experience” program is tailored for enthusiasts who want more than just a scenic ride in a helicopter—they want to take control of the aircraft. This program appeals to gearheads who are passionate about mechanics and adventure, offering them a chance to engage with the controls of a rotorcraft. Preparing for the Flight The journey begins at Rogue Aviation’s headquarters at Long Beach Municipal Airport, where the atmosphere blends mid-century modern design with aviation themes. A well-stocked lounge and a classroom for mandatory safety training create an inviting environment. The training covers essential information abou...

Get Excited: The KTM 160 Duke Could Be the Ultimate Beginner Bike

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A New Era for KTM’s Entry-Level Models KTM has long been known for its high-performance motorcycles, but the brand's journey into the entry-level segment has been a significant one. With Bajaj now holding a majority stake in the company, the focus on affordable and accessible bikes has taken center stage. This shift is not just about making money—it’s about creating a loyal rider base that can eventually move up to more powerful models. For many riders, the KTM Duke range represents more than just a street-legal machine. It's often their first real taste of European engineering and performance. In the Philippines, for example, the Duke series was a gateway to the world of advanced motorcycle technology. The first-generation 200 Duke was a game-changer, offering comparable performance to Japanese naked bikes at a similar price point—around $3,000 USD. This affordability wasn’t accidental; it was a result of Bajaj’s role in manufacturing the smaller Dukes in India, which made t...

Kawasaki 2026 Versys 1100 Gets New Color Options

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A Fresh Look for the Versys 1100 S and SE The 2026 model year brings a new aesthetic to the Kawasaki Versys 1100 S and SE, with two fresh paint options that add a touch of modern flair. However, beneath the updated exterior, the core performance and technology remain largely unchanged from the previous year’s major overhaul. This subtle refresh ensures the Versys lineup continues to stand out in the competitive sport-touring segment while maintaining its reputation for reliability and versatility. Kawasaki has long been recognized as one of the most adaptable manufacturers in the motorcycle industry, producing a wide range of models from championship-winning superbikes to rugged off-road machines. For riders who split their time between highways and winding roads, the Versys series has become a go-to choice. It offers a perfect blend of comfort, capability, and adaptability, making it an ideal companion for both daily commutes and weekend adventures. Over the years, the Versys 1100 ...

Hero MotoCorp Ends Mavrick 440, Harley X440 Lives On

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Hero MotoCorp's Attempt to Enter the Premium Market Hero MotoCorp, one of India’s largest two-wheeler manufacturers, has long been recognized for its affordable and accessible motorcycles and scooters. These models are designed for daily commuting, catering to a wide range of consumers across both urban and rural areas. However, in 2023, the company took a bold step by launching its first premium-focused model, the Mavrick 440, which ultimately did not last long. This move came as part of a collaboration with Harley-Davidson, a renowned American motorcycle brand. Together, they co-developed the X440, a small roadster aimed at attracting younger riders to the iconic Bar and Shield brand. The X440 was built in India by Hero and sold under the Harley-Davidson name, making it the most accessible Harley ever produced in the country. Shortly after, Hero introduced its own version of the platform: the Mavrick 440. While the Mavrick shared the same core hardware as the X440, it featured ...

New Chinese Tourer Offers Solid Specs, But High Price Deters Buyers

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A New Era for Mash Motorcycles Mash Motorcycles, a French brand known for its retro-styled, affordable motorcycles, has recently launched the GT 750, a model that marks a significant shift in the company’s strategy. This new offering is essentially a rebadged version of the KR750 from Chinese manufacturer Jedi Motor and is priced at 11,999 Euros (approximately $13,000 USD) in France. While this price point may seem steep, it reflects the brand’s ambition to compete in a more premium segment. Mash has long been a name more familiar in Europe than in the United States. The brand gained popularity by offering small-displacement retro bikes that often mimic the style of classic British or Japanese machines but are manufactured in China. This unique blend of European design aesthetics with cost-effective Asian production has allowed Mash to carve out a niche market for riders who want an affordable way to enjoy two wheels. However, the GT 750 represents a bold step forward. It is the mos...