Wild Wild West - South Korea

West is a matter of where you stand in the world, but in this case, the wild wild west is in South Korea. Apparently the motorcycle scene there is a gang-ho, all out, motorcycle rodeo.

It has become so dangerous, that the Korean government is planning a major crackdown on the motorcycle world. Their target? The couriers and delivery motorcycles. Some 400,000 are registered, representing probably half of what is really out there.

These motorcycle delivery boys & girls hop onto sidewalks and speed over them in order to make their delivery on time. Pedestrians are just obstacles in their daring race against time. Seoul city is gridlocked with cars, so they do not have any options. Enforcement is very difficult anyway, so the couriers get away with it. The traffic fine they are presented with, if they are ever caught, is the equivalent of US$25.

According to the head of an express delivery service company: “Quickness is what we are for. We know it’s illegal but when the road is jammed with cars, we don’t have any choice but to hit sidewalks to go fast.”

Not only will the Seoul Metropolitan Government hit motorcycles who are riding on sidewalks, but they also plan to go after the ones that ride in the bus-only lanes and park on sidewalks, hindering pedestrians.

The service owners do not think that the Government efforts will pan out to anything. They plan to continue their operations as normal.

Kawasaki Ninja 650R

For 2009, Kawasaki engineers and designers worked closely together to refine the Ninja 650R into an even more user-friendly motorcycle with many design similarities to the ZX-6R.

Starting with the 650cc parallel-twin engine, continuing with the frame and finishing with the suspensions, the bike is now a more tempting approach for novices. But what exactly is that due to? For starters, the engine’s fuel injection system has been revised for greater low rpm torque and more linear power delivery, making it perfect for those leaving their cars in the garage in favor of motorcycles as a result of continuous gas prices increase.

Other modifications to the small and yet pushy engine (72 hp and 48.5 lb/ft) consist in moving the cooling fluid from the external hoses and inside the cases as well as adding a new catalyzer which helps Kawasaki stay true to its now consecrated color (meets Euro-III regulations).

Further easing a beginner’s choice is the lowered seat (now 31.1 inches), rubber-mounted handlebars as well as rubber threads fitted pegs. A rider would now feel more confident in maneuvering the bike as we all know that the slow-speed is the one that gets headaches into the helmets.

Having also upgraded the front suspension and the swingarm (even though not concretely mentioning what they’ve done), Kawasaki people are happy to price the new Ninja 650R at $6,799. It sure won’t get beaten when it comes to fuel consumption.

A new approach towards the Yamaha R1 by Roland Sands

Motorcycle artist Roland Sands has recently spent some time with the Yamaha R1 studying it and finding cooler parts and technologies to implement on the already mind blowing performing motorcycle.

The result is this one-off Kenny Roberts style colored “Performance Machine”, as it says on the rear end, which stands out thanks to the longer swingarm, custom wheels and exhaust (that must sound crazy).

Now don’t get me wrong, I love the design, but I don’t know how the bike performs while braking as, for example, in order to have the front wheel stand out a brake disc was removed. Also the rider would have troubles seeing anything in those nice small mirrors.

Schumacher got its hands on the Ten Kate Honda Superbike

Former F1 pilot Michael Schumacher had the opportunity to get a feel of the HANNspree Ten Kate Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade rode by Carlos Checa in the World Superbike championship and he made the most out of it. The bike is being tested on the French circuit of Magny-Cours by Checa and the Ten Kate team before the 3-5 Octomber round of the championship so that is where Schumacher tested the bike.

Having embraced motorcycle racing after he retired in 2006 as a seven times F1 champion, Schumacher raced a Honda CBR1000RR in this season’s IDM Superbike series so it was up for the challenge.

That is exactly what HANNspree Ten Kate Honda team manager, Ronald ten Kate, said: "I’m always a little nervous letting someone ride our bikes before the end of the season, but with Michael, I was happy to make an exception. He’s proved to be more than capable of handling the power of our CBR1000RR and he’s really a very good rider".

Schumacher said: "It was interesting to see how a professional superbike team works. It was difficult to understand the machinery fully with such a short amount of time but it was a great experience. It was also good to be a team-mate with Carlos who I have known for a number of years. I would like to thank Mr ten Kate for giving me the opportunity to try things out".

Ducati Monster 1100

Ducati has at last launched the new Monster 1100 and the 1100S version, a smart move that increases the Monster lineup to three members (if you count the Monster 696), each one offering a new kind of excitement. This is the first out of ten new models that Ducati announced to launch until 2010.

Weighing only 169 kg, only 6 kilos less than the 696 and developing 95cp at 7500rpm and 10.5kgm at 6000rpm, the Monster 1100 has the power to weight ratio on its side and it could easily be declared king of its category without temporizing things. The engine behind it is the already consecrated 1100 DS, an 1100cc two-valved V-Twin present on the Ducati Hypermotard and Ducati Multistrada 1100.

Exclusive features such as the Y-spoke wheels and the single-sided swingarm highlight the rear wheel. Further more, on the “S” version, the Öhlins suspensions, carbon fiber insertions together with the golden wheels show us the future look of the naked starting with the details.

BMW G450X

BMW introduces its first real off-road production dirtbike. The BMW G450X is a breakaway from the usual offroad enduro family like the much honored R 1200 GS. This will be BMW first attempt to compete against the likes of Honda’s CRF450X and the KTM 450. The big plus that this nice looking bike will also be street legal, barely. Notice the very little turn signals upfront.

Pushing this new from the ground up dirtbike will be a single cylinder 449cc engine. Claimed horsepower is at 50 bhp with 35 lb.-ft of torgue. The claimed dry wieght of this BMW will be 251 lbs. Fuel capacity is 2.1 gallons. The front brakes will sport single Brembo 260 mm disc. and the rear 220 mm disc. Suspension will be 45mm Marzocchi inverted forks and the rear will have Ohlins with adjustable spring preload.

From the looks of it BMW went all out. Price tag will be at $8,699. Compared to Honda’s CRF 450X price tag of $7,399 its over a grand more. It is a BMW however. You will be the classiest guy in the dirt. Plus you can ride it home via freeway. Do you think that it will hold its own against Honda, KTM and Yamaha?

Brudeli Leanster 645L goes into production

If you plan on going at the Intermot it is strongly recommended that you don’t miss stand E-021 in hall 9.1. There, you can get a glance on the leaning trike made in Norway by Brudeli Tech. It is called Leanster (obviously) 645L and it combines the racing abilities of a cart with the excitement of a motorcycle-like riding position and controls. Press release after the break.

Kawasaki ZX-14

Kawasaki designers seem to try their best in dissolving any form of visual attraction that the sport bike lineup still may have exerted and the 2009 ZX-14 is probably the most conclusive proof of this fact.

Being a massive motorcycle, the Kawasaki ZX-14 should have at least featured less eccentric colors in an attempt to make it look sinuous. But, despite its size, it is being painted Candy Lime Green, Flat Super Black and Kawasaki even introduces two special edition colors, Candy Burnt Orange and Metallic Diablo Black. Add a pair of claws marks on the last color scheme and you’ll come up with the 2009 Kawasaki ZX-14 Monster Energy.

Here are the official photos for you to enjoy if you can.

A motorcycle Poker run board game coming?

While we were plying through the 1000’s of motorcycle patents filed recently (that’s right, it’s part of our job description), we stumbled upon this patent. It’s a patent for a board trivia game, based on the successful motorcycle poker runs.

The game is a bit of a combination of trivial pursuit, Poker and roll-and-move games. You start your game at the START location and travel to the hosting cities (like Sturgis, Laughlin, Daytona, etc), ending at the FINISH location (eventually).

Like in other roll-and-move games, you can end up on a trivia question; Trivia questions are all motorcycle related. There are also visual recognition cards, which again are motorcycle related photos or illustrations (called ’WHAT THE HELL IS THAT?’). Apart from the trivia and recognition cards, there’s also a normal set of playing cards (used for the Poker game).

The objective is twofold; 1) finish first going through the USA, and 2) have the winning Poker hand.

There’s also real money and drinking involved, so a real biker game.

Looks like an interesting game to play when the snow has blocked us from riding our roads. Round up a couple of riding buddies, and play the game.

The patent has only recently been registered, so I do not know when the board game will be available, but I don’t think you’ll find it in this year’s Christmas stocking.

Click here to see the patent

Suzuki GSX-R 1000

The much awaited 2009 Suzuki GSX-R 1000 has finally been introduced and we must say that it doesn’t just feature some new color schemes and that’s it. Significantly refined, Suzuki’s liter model comes as a lighter, more compact as well as more powerful package.

Kawasaki ZX-10R

Kawasaki doesn’t redesign the 2009 ZX-10R although there have been question marks related to its doubtful approach on the most recent model years. Still, the Ninja is a high-performing sports motorcycle (no mechanical changes neither) which lets no room for error in the liter class so it requires its fair share of additions consisting in nicer green and white, bronze and black color schemes.

The new colors diminish its ugly nose and make a Kawi fan “miss” the design drawbacks, especially if it lives in Europe and can go for the all-white model now available on the old continent.

Disney Paris Is Looking For A Motorcycle Stunt Man/Woman

Looks like Disney Paris is going through their stunt men and women like little croissants. The Disney park in Paris is looking for a motorcycle stunt man or woman to play in the Action show "Moteurs... Action ! Stunt Show Spectacular" in their Movies Theme park.

Having seen the show a couple of times, it’s impressive, and you’re going to have to really be able to really control your motorcycle if you plan to play with The Mouse. It’s not a couple of wheelies and stoppies. Have a look at the video below, and you can see why.

They’re looking for someone who has real experience with motorcycles, but also with cars. The role is very physical, so you need to be in shape, and need to be able to respect the strict security rules. They are also looking for that someone to have an artist sole and team spirit. Remember, it’s entertainment!

If you’re interested, and you’re between 18 and 35 years old, you can apply on-line. Disney can provide you with accommodation. It will help if you speak French, but it’s not a must.

Follow the link, and click on the "POSTULER" button.

http://offres.disney.newjobs.com/getjob.asp?JobID=28709224&AVSDM =2008-09-16+04%3A59%3A19&Logo=0&brd=5931&sort=rv&vw=b

First official video of the 2009 Aprilia RSV4

Taking in consideration what Aprilia go us accustomed with, this is a pretty lame video that doesn’t reflect RSV’s true racing abilities. Part of the freshly launched micro-site for the RSV4, the new ad is suppose to make as fan of the bike before it even starts racing in the Superbike World Championship, but I consider that these new pics do more than the video.

Brammo Enertia to hit production

Having gathered the $10 million necessary to finance the production of the Enertia electric motorcycle, Brammo Motorsports was today proud to announce that the bike will go into production. Brammo CEO, Craig Bramscher was the official who declared that the amount is sufficient for the Enertia to hit the production line.

Big part of that money comes from best Buy Capital, which happens to have an electronic store. Now that is an interesting way to discover where the first Enertia motorcycles will be sold.

Ducati to feature 1198 model in next year’s lineup

For 2009, Ducati announces the launch of the brand new 1198 model, one that is expected to feature the 1198cc engine from the 1098R. Even though mechanically identical, the engine will be retuned to develop 170 hp, 10 hp less than the one on the exotic and expensive 1098R.

The new bike will feature less expensive elements so it will be priced at 11,500 euros. But Ducati also announced the arrival of the 1198S which will feature upgraded suspensions and traction control. This last model is expected to be priced at 14,500 euros.

In what concerns the design of the future Ducati, people are already familiar with it from the 1098R, but we do know that it will feature minor modifications. Overall, the 1198 will be a lighter bike than its predecessor and it is expected to go big on the sales chapter.

Aprilia RSV4

With 31 world championship titles, 250 MotoGP wins and 8 Superbike victories in the last sixteen years, Aprilia is a legend in modern motorcycling. Aprilia motorcycles have dominated circuits all over the world thanks to unconventional technical solutions, experimentation and innovation and, sometimes, by revolutionising technology thought to be unchangeable.

With this unique sporting heritage behind them, Aprilia is proud to present the RSV4, the bike with which Aprilia will return to the Superbike World Championship in 2009. This extraordinary machine has been conceived, designed and developed entirely by Aprilia Racing for competition use.

36 Reasons Why Motorcycles Are Better Than Women Smile

1. Motorcycles’ curves never sag.

2. Motorcycles last longer.

3. Motorcycles don’t get pregnant.

4. You can ride a Motorcycles any time of the month.

5. Motorcycles don’t have parents.

6. Motorcycles don’t whine unless something is really wrong.

7. You can kick your Motorcycle to wake it up.

8. You can share your Motorcycle with your friends.

9. If your Motorcycle makes too much noise, you can buy a muffler.

10. You only need to get a new chain or belt for your Motorcycle when the old one is really worn.

11. If your Motorcycle smokes, you can do something about it.

12. Motorcycles don’t care about how many other Motorcycles you have ridden.

13. When riding, you and your Motorcycle both arrive at the same time.

14. Motorcycles don’t care about how many other Motorcycles you have.

15. Motorcycles don’t mind if you look at other Motorcycles, or if you buy Motorcycle magazines.

16. New Motorcycles must be asked for, and if you don’t want to pay for them, you don’t get them.

17. If your Motorcycle goes flat, you can fix it.

18. If your Motorcycle is too loose, you can tighten it.

19. If your Motorcycle is too soft, you can get different shocks.

20. If your Motorcycle is mis aligned, you don’t have to discuss politics to correct it.

21. You can have a beer while riding your Motorcycle.

22. You can have a black Motorcycle and show it to your parents.

23. You don’t have to be jealous of the guy that works on your Motorcycle.

24. You don’t have to deal with priests or blood-tests to register your Motorcycle.

25. You don’t have to convince your Motorcycle that you’re a motorcyclist and that you think that Motorcycles are equals.

26. If you say bad things to your Motorcycles, you don’t have to apologize before you can ride it again.

27. You can ride a Motorcycle as long as you want and it won’t get sore.

28. Your parents don’t remain in touch with your old Motorcycle after you dump it.

29. Motorcycles always feel like going for a ride.

30. Motorcycles don’t insult you if you are a bad rider.

31. Your Motorcycle never wants a night out alone with the other Motorcycles.

32. Motorcycles don’t care if you are late.

33. You don’t have to take a shower before riding your Motorcycle.

34. It’s always ok to use tie downs on your Motorcycle.

35. If your Motorcycle doesn’t look good, you can paint it or get better parts.

36. You can’t get diseases from a Motorcycle you don’t know very well.

Spy shooting at Mugello reveals the Aprilia RSV 4

Keeping an eye on the Mugello circuit seemed to be an inspired idea as Aprilia has finally came out to test the RSV 4, a heavily bragged about supersport motorcycle, especially after its first official presentation last February at the International Piaggio Group Convention in Milan.

This is actually the street version of the RSV 4 superbike being tested on the Italian track by an also Italian pilot, Fabrizio Pellizzon. As you can see, it looks 99% ready to hit the streets with its new design kit, and a very important feature that distinguishes a race bike from a street legal one, the headlights. They have received their final shape, leaving us anxiously expecting the first official pictures from the EICMA show in Roma on the 21st of September.

Emergency braking on your motorcycle

The amazingly performing motorcycle that we end up riding nowadays often give us the impression that they need a more efficient emergency breaking system, but what do you exactly imagine when hearing this? Certainly not a motorcycle parachute, but I would have to disappoint you at this one.

KTM 690 Enduro R

KTM has recently unveiled its latest 690 Enduro R model, one that completes the Austrian manufacturer’s motorcycle lineup and which is based on the same LC4 engine that makes people dream about this sport enduro motorcycle.

Based on the previous model year 690 Enduro, the “R” model aims at satisfying rider demands by offering a sportier character and by implementing new technologies that contribute at making the bike as versatile as it is reliable.

Because KTM has implemented a modern electronic ignition, the LC4 engine will feature reduced emissions and fuel consumption as well as contribute to the increase in performance of up to 62 HP.

In what concerns the chassis, if features greater suspension range as the rest of the bike has to come up to the engine’s demands. Also, the chassis was lightened, instruments updated and a new mud guard was added. In 2009, the new KTM 690 Enduro R will run on Pirelli MT 21 tyres.

The only inconvenient is the one and a half months time you need to wait until it hits dealerships.

Yamaha reduces European inventory to ensure the success of 2009 models

Yamaha has made public its marketing strategy for Europe and as strange as it may seem it implies reducing the motorcycle inventory in Europe, cutting shipments with 9%.

The news comes as a result of a 50% overstock in countries such as Italy and Spain, but promotions at the end of the year are expected to tucker out the stocks.

The Japanese manufacturer was also found needed to cut its 2008 sales forecast by 14% to 374,000 units after demands started weakening, strangely, after the winter. It seems that people are now buying chariots in the winter and sleighs during the summer.

Considering the launch of the new R1 and the FZ6R, this was an anticipated strategy as these models had to follow up their predecessors successes.

Inventory in North America was also quickly slashed after lowering output and amid solid sales of models with bad mpg.

Ferrari V4 Motorcycle Concept

Being an inspired engineer with a soft spot for motorcycles always helps when your goal is to create one of the most exclusive motorcycles on the planet. This is the case of Amir Glinik from Israel who inspired on the design of Ferrari sport cars in order to create the Ferrari motorcycle, a both stylistically and technically matching replica of the Italian maker’s automobiles.

While Ferrari designers look for inspiration on the surroundings of Modena, our ingenious builder hasn’t got that luxury on its hands so it inspires directly from the design of original Ferrari cars built ever since Enzo Ferrari would have offended Ferucio Lamborghini in the now famous clutch story.

As a result, Glinik’s bike features smooth, aerodynamic lines that create the Ferrari look and retain the heart and soul of these amazing machines. Like on Ferrari cars, colors are Red and Yellow.

The engine is a V4 derived from the massive V12 powering the Ferrari Enzo and it implements drive-by-wire technology as well as all the top notch features you would expect from an Italian engine.

Still a concept, the Ferrari motorcycle would be an interesting motorcycle to go into production if the Italian house softens. Though that is not something I believe would happen.

Ducati 1098 Senna tribute bike

After the tragic death of Ayrton Senna in 1994, different series of Ducati and MV Agusta limited edition motorcycles were designed as a tribute to the three-time Formula 1 world champion. Now, we’ve come across custom-built Ducati 1098 Senna which reminds us of the famous racing driver and about its big passion for motorcycles, apart from the one for cars.

French Special: MotoGP kit for Yamaha R1 and R6

Yamaha France will be supplying its motor heads with YZF-R1 and YZF-R6 models featuring a kit which transforms them in street legal replicas of the Yamaha M1 raced by Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo in the MotoGP Championship.

The kit is only available in France in a limited edition of only 35 units and it includes the full MotoGP-style fairing, gas tank cap, and graphics. Also, the bikes feature only the rider seat for extra truthfulness.

And you haven’t even heard the best of it. The kit can be adapted to a variety of new or used Yamaha R1 and R6 models so the price will be influenced by as much or as few elements of the kit you need to buy in order to have your bike look like Rossi’s.

Harley-Davidson getting its own YouTube Channel

Interacting with people that are passionate about Harley-Davidson motorcycles and staying up to date with the latest ads of the legendary maker can now be made on the Harley-Davidson Youtube channel. Practically a section of the notorious YouTube, the new channel is a more attractive as well as interactive thanks to the heavy feedback.

So if you’re a Harely-Davidson fan, THIS would be the first page you’ll be accessing from the office early in the morning.

Unofficial picture of the 2009 Kawasaki ER-6N

Kawasaki has recently made some tests of the 2009 ER-6N in France, a perfect occasion for us to get a glance of the new features involved.

Even though the naked bike hasn’t suffered a major revision and stylistically it is pretty much the same, the front end is now more attractive due to the redesigned headlight and instruments. Together with the rear end they sharpen the previous clean looking design, making the ER-6N look like more of a challenge. A nice, distinctive touch is also given by the matte black painted engine, but that’s pretty much what sets it apart from the 2008 model year.

There have been rumors that the 2009 Kawasaki ER-6N will be fitted with the Z750 upside-down fork, but this picture disapproves them.

Together with the first official photos we will also find out the 2009 colors which will most likely have the major contribution at the renewing process of this fresh introduced Kawasaki.

France: Special insurance for race circuit motorcycles

Europe is passionate about motorcycles, and it’s seen in special areas unknown in many countries outside of Europe. In France, the motorcycle insurance company “Mutuelle des motards” has recently announced a special insurance for riders who take their passion to the race circuits.

Up till now, if you took your motorcycle on a circuit and crashed, you had pay for the damages. The new insurance covers your bike and you in case of a crash. Not only will the reimburse the repairs costs (for your bike and for you), but they will also transport your motorcycle back home.

What’s more, they also cover the transport of your motorcycle, even if it’s not a street legal bike. If, while loading your motorcycle onto a trailer, it falls, or if it brakes loose of the tie-downs while bringing it to the circuit, your bike is insured.

The special insurance is valid on any European Union race circuit, or any circuit in a country represented by the green insurance card.

But, and there is always a but in the insurance business, the insurance does not cover you when you are in an official race. So, if you’re competing in a SuperBike race, you’re not covered (the start fee covers you), but if you’re training with your buddies to compete in the SuperBike races, then you’re covered.

The French insurance company has started offering this product in order to help safety for bikers. Many bikers like racing, and going on a circuit often meant that you lose your insurance coverage. It was financial smarter to race on the streets and risk getting fined. Now with this insurance, you can safely race on a circuit.

Not bad. Now, if other insurance companies would offer these kind of insurance products, we’d be in good shape.

The Suzuki Crosscage is one plausible green concept

Green is the way to go into the future and Suzuki has apparently understood that as they have recently undergone some serious testing of their Crosscage Fuel Cell Motorcycle.

Still a concept, but a very plausible way of commuting in the near future, the Suzuki Crosscage brings a range of incontestable advantages. For starters, it has zero emissions, it doesn’t make any noise and its hydrogen fuel cell engine doesn’t need gears and a clutch, something that barely keeps us from situating it in the scooter category.

As you can see, it features a very futuristic design. The frame has an X-shape and the wheels bolt on single-sided fork and swingarm, just to mention some nice touches. Let’s just hope it will get the OK to go into production and talk about it in detail.