2011 May - Motorcycle News - Page 4

May 19, 2011

Stay cool, dry and comfortable all day with the function shirts from BMW Motorrad

BMW Motorrad is pleased to add a range of functional garments to its collection of Rider Equipment: the Function Shirt and T-Shirt. The Function range fuses advanced manufacturing techniques with the extraordinary properties of natural fibres – in this case from the coconut – to keep riders cool, dry and odour-free. BMW Motorrad is the first manufacturer to utilise Cocona in a motorcycling garment. Read the full article »


May 19, 2011

2010 Triumph Thunderbird recall

British brand Triumph is recalling two thousand 2010 Thunderbird models. These motorcycles were built with an incompatible thread locker/screw combination at the front fender mounting. These screws might become loose, and the screw heads can contact the side wall of the front tire, leading to tire deflation, increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will install new screws, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule. Owners also contact Triumph Customer Service at 1-678-539-8782. Read the full article »


May 19, 2011

NHTSA updates motorcyclists’ DOT helmet rule

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has announced an update for the DOT regulations covering motorcycle helmets on May 13 that took effect immediately. The new rule is meant to decrease the use of "novelty" helmets while making it more difficult to sell helmets with markings that resemble the current "DOT" label showing compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 218, the motorcycle helmet safety standard issued in 1973. Read the full article »


May 18, 2011

2012 Kawasaki KX450F and KX250F revealed

Shortly after Honda, other Japanese manufacturer Kawasaki also announced its refreshed offroad line-up for the 2012 model year. The new KX250F is the world's first production motocrosser to feature an advanced dual injector FI setup, for better engine control and more performance, while the KX450F features a host of novelties like the MX industry’s first production-use Launch Control Mode, a new ECU with 3 easily selectable maps, and an adjustable riding position ensure that the KX450F stays ahead of the competition. Read the full article »


May 18, 2011

Falcon Motorcycles Black Falcon – the new Vincent Black Shadow

Falcon motorcycles latest custom motorcycle the Black Falcon has been revealed in a four minute video by LA Times. Once again Falcon have created a stunning custom motorcycle all built around one of the best looking (and performing) engines to ever be made, a 1952 Vincent Black Shadow. Their approach was well research, extensively planned and meticulously executed. Every details was thought through. Read the full article »


May 18, 2011

Video: Husqvarna’s 900cc parallel twin engine

Husqvarna released a new teaser video for its 900cc parallel twin engine that will power the first of a series of new road bikes. According to the video, this will be the most powerful engine in Husqvarna’s history. The development of the new engine is well underway thanks to the finance of parent firm BMW. This is one of the first steps that demonstrates the synergy between BMW Motorrad and Husqvarna for the development of street bikes. The first bike powered by this engine will be launched later this year. Read the full article »


May 18, 2011

Marlon Brando Trustees sue Harley-Davidson for using name

Marlon Brando’s estate executors have filed a suit against Harley-Davidson Motor Company for the unlicensed use of Brando’s name on a line of boots. Brando Enterprises is seeking to recover damages caused by the sales and marketing of the unlicensed boot. The lawsuit says the boots look similar to a pair that Brando wore in the 1953 movie „The Wild One”. The movie mogul says, "The Marlon Brando name is among the most recognized in the world. Only a select few can transcend generations and Marlon Brando is in that rarified group of globally renowned icons. Read the full article »


May 17, 2011

2011 Yamaha Jog R and Jog RR

For 2011, the 50cc Yamaha Jog R and Jog RR scooters are coming in different variety of new colours. The R version will be available in Satin Aluminium, while the Jog RR looks great in the new Midnight Black livery. Both models are powered by a 50cc 4-stroke engine which delivers 2.0 kW in the R and 2.52 kW in the RR version. The 12-inch aluminium wheels are fitted with wide tyres provide good grip, the front disc/rear drum brake set-up delivers smooth stopping power. Read the full article »


May 17, 2011

New tall touring screen and hugger for Triump Tiger 800

New from British bodywork specialists Skidmarx, a range of accessories to make life with Triumph's 800cc adventure sport bike even easier. Tall screens are a popular upgrade for riders planning to cover long distances. Manufactured from 3mm acrylic, the Skidmarx tall screen for the Tiger 800 is 53cm high and is supplied with support bars to ensure a secure fit even at motorway cruising speeds. Read the full article »


May 17, 2011

BMW unveils left turn assistant

The Bavarian manufacturer unveiled a new motorcycle and car communication system that aims to prevent cars pulling across the path of oncoming bikes. The „Left Turn Assistant” is activated automatically in the BMW 5 Series test vehicle as soon as the car’s sensors detect that it is entering the left-turn lane and the car registers the driver’s wish to turn off. Recognition of the left-turn lane takes place on two levels. The vehicle positioning function of the navigation system allows the location of the car to be fixed to within a metre at intersections. Read the full article »