Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Motorcycle cow pictured during vacation

Motorcycle cow pictured during vacation


We’ve come to find that people are buying less and less milk due to the economic downturn and some cows have even been needed to go on vacation because of this reason. Apparently, this one volunteered most likely because it had a motorcycle trip on her mind. No need to gear up as natural leather is always the best.



Business groups seek job creation
Special Japanese Motorcycle Parking

Koenigsegg CCR inspires Justin Togail to create ASUKA 02 Prototype Motorcycle

Koenigsegg CCR inspires Justin Togail to create ASUKA 02 Prototype Motorcycle


The Swedish super sports car, Koenigsegg CCR, has inspired designer Justin Togail into creating what appears to be the best candidate for the next Batmobile, the ASUKA 02 Prototype Motorcycle.

The style in which it opens up to unveil the engine parts and components is what the author mentions to have liked at the Koenigsegg, but while the four-wheeler is know to burn a lot of gas, this vehicle is supposed to be powerful, economic and green.

Actually, the engine and exhaust systems are designed to save as much as 90% of heat waste and transform it back into energy. Although our anticipative and innovative designer doesn’t mention how that’s even possible, we have to give him credit for the month of work that the engine and chassis only required.





Lamborghini Motorcycle Concept
Business groups seek job creation

Sunday, March 29, 2009

Lamborghini Motorcycle Concept

Lamborghini Motorcycle Concept


Very often, those who are passionate about motorcycles are into exotic cars too, but we rarely get to see a product (or at least a concept) that would catch the best of both worlds. This Lamborghini motorcycle concept is a homage brought to the Italian manufacturer of some of the most exclusive cars on the planet.

Although we can’t get decide what Lamborghini model it stands for best (we do require your help in this concern), it is impossibly not to be hooked up by the hubless wheels and extremely low height of this chopper. It clearly reveals the hand of an experienced designer…actually two. Called “The Zeus is Loose” Tesla, this stunning creation is the work of chief designer of Bertone, Marcello Gandini, in collaboration with designer Flavio Adriani.





Ducati 1000 SS Concept
Hybrid Chopper Concept
Cuba policy provision could stall Obama appointments
Medicaid fraud chief, 3 others suspended for drinking

Special Japanese Motorcycle Parking

Special Japanese Motorcycle Parking


If Tarzan would have ridden motorcycles, this is most likely how and where he would have parked them. But this is not the case. As the sign indicates, this is one “special” Japanese motorcycle parking.



Jury clears Puerto Rico ex-governor in corruption trial
Judge assails cases doubting Obama’s citizenship
Zero Motorcycles organizes 24-hour endurance event. You’re invited!

Kawasaki Versys

Get the Flash Player to see the videos.

Kawasaki presents the 2009 Versys without having too much to mention under the “Improvements” heading as the bike is still a relatively new introduction, a faultless one considering the many positive opinions we got related to it.

They do ad a new color scheme, the Blue in the pictures, apart from Kawasaki Green, but the Versys remains the same all-rounder with many secrets yet to be unveiled when you jump on its seat. Combining a touring-like riding position with sports-like design and performance, a rider would have to reconsider its idea about data such as the 64 Hp, 45lb/ft moving 454 lbs wet weight.

That’s a great bike to get for just over $7K, now painted, hopefully, according to your preferences.





Prime minister’s tough talk aside, China’s fortunes tied to U.S.
Palin seeks more candidates for open Senate seat
Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R

Playboy - an official sponsor for LCR Honda

Playboy - an official sponsor for LCR Honda


Randy DePuniet is one lucky pilot as his team – LCR Honda – recently signed a sponsorship deal with Playboy. The rider’s Honda competition motorcycle and leathers will feature the Playboy logo starting this weekend at the IRTA tests and during the Spanish and Japanese GP’s.

Owner of the team, Lucio Cecchinello, has confirmed the news: “We have been in touch with Playboy US for a long time and, taking advantage of the opportunity given by the presence of some American top executives part of Hugh Hefner entourage during his latest visit to Europe, we have defined the guidelines of a project allowing us to start negotiations with some of this evergreen brand’s global licensees. Playboy Italy has positively assessed the project and confirmed the sponsorship for the early stage of the season (MotoGP Championship Launch during the tests in Jerez de la Frontera, GP in Japan and Spain as Title Sponsor, GP in Qatar…unfortunately, we all know the kind of problems for that) linking it to their activities in the view of relaunching the magazine in Italy. Currently, there are further ongoing negotiations with licensees in more countries, who have been presented with our “projects by event” concept, which does not imply any millionaire investments”.

Go to the LCR Honda website for more information and even sexier photos.





Honda Fury Roadster Sibling
Honda Fury Roadster Sibling
Billionaire Stanford’s troubles cause a tropical headache on Antigua

Saturday, March 28, 2009

Ducati Pantah revival?

Ducati Pantah revival?


Oberdan Bezzi, the man behind most Ducati renderings, has come up with the Ducati Pantah 696, a replica of the notorious sports bike produced between 1980 and 1986. Because the original bike was powered by a 90-degree V-twin engine, the designer visualizes the new Pantah as being powered by the 696 engine from the Monster.

As intended by Ducati when manufacturing the bike more than 20 years ago, the Pantah is a low cost sports motorcycle built in the Italian style. Being both accessible and ready to be ridden by all riders, the Ducati Pantah 696 presents major potential of reviving Fabio Taglioni’s idea.





Charlie Crist wants to stop free flow for bottled water
Ducati Maxi-Scooter design
Ducati 1000 SS Concept

Kawasaki ER-6n

Get the Flash Player to see the videos.

In what concerns middleweight streetfighter bikes, a powerful and smooth operating engine, comfortable ergonomics and light handling are all qualities that manage to do the trick each and every time. So what could have possibly been Kawasaki doing to the 2009 ER-6n that they ended up delivering such a versatile being, aggressive looking and awesome performing motorcycle that it even ended up on the American market?

The series of modifications improved almost every aspect of the light and attractive Kawi bike so that the highest demands would be easily met and so far it didn’t disappoint.





Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R
Obama: Stocks are a `potentially good deal’

Friday, March 27, 2009

KTM postpones Venom production

KTM postpones Venom production


The Austrian manufacturer KTM announced that their Venom project has been put on hold for as long as it takes to make a success out of the RC8 superbike. A naked superbike, the Venom was first unveiled at the 2005 EICMA Show in Milan and was supposed to go into production as a 2009 model year. Thomas Kuttruf, Public Relations Manager at KTM, told MCN why this won’t happen so soon:

“The bike is standing in Kiska’s (Gerald Kiska, the man behind the design company responsible for the look of all KTMs) office, but is currently a no-go for production.

With the Venom project we had the idea to make a naked superbike, we still think this idea is worth following and the project is not stopped, but it is a bit on hold.

“The clear priority for us at the moment and the clear idea from the Stefan Pierer was to say ‘guys, before we have a naked superbike, we must have a successful real superbike.’





Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14
Cuba policy provision could stall Obama appointments
Prime minister’s tough talk aside, China’s fortunes tied to U.S.

Kawasaki Ninja 650R

Get the Flash Player to see the videos.
A wise man once said that intelligence consists in the ability to adapt to new situations each and every time these emerge and it looks that this is exactly what Kawasaki is doing with the Ninja 650R. This is the head of their sport bike lineup and it meets the latest requests in matter of performance, comfort, user-friendliness, reliability and style. It is the result of Kawi spotting the need of such a bike on the market and it already got much better.



Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R
Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R
Cuba policy provision could stall Obama appointments
Obama won’t send troops to Mexican border — for now

Thursday, March 26, 2009

Movito - NASA’s favorite Electric Scooter

Movito - NASA’s favorite Electric Scooter


The Movito Electric Scooter is a green and yet fancy small two-wheeler that recently won NASA’s Create the future Design Contest. Tai Chiem is the man behind this innovative project featuring a carbon-cutting in-wheel electric motor located within a modular base that can be detached to form a two-seat vehicle. Most likely that’s what impressed NASA people.



Republicans say Obama’s budget plan too costly
Standbike’s SuperBikeBoard is ridiculously useless, but fun
Ducati Maxi-Scooter design
Top House Republican on budget rips Obama plan

Julen Rondino's A.3.W. Motiv Concept Bike

Julen Rondinos A.3.W. Motiv Concept Bike


Julien Rondino is the mastermind behind the A3W Motiv, a three-wheeled concept motorcycle with no apparent purpose unless you give it a second thought. Featuring a 999cc KTM LC8 engine mounted on a steel/aluminum chassis, the bike has got the grunt and everything it takes to get the most benefits from it, including a hub centre steering, adjustable ergonomics as well as perimeter brakes.

So what’s with the third wheel? Most likely, this provides extra traction and also allows the concept bike to pass over all kinds of urban obstacles.





Ducati 1000 SS Concept
Red Widow concept by Troyano

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Fully chromed Suzuki Hayabusa

Fully chromed Suzuki Hayabusa


For some people, the color schemes available for the Suzuki Hayabusa are simply not shiny enough and, as a result, we end up seeing more and more such fully chromed motorcycles. This one was spotted at the Daytona Bike Week.



Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14
Obama ties hope for economic recovery to passage of budget
Congress isn’t feeling much heat from Obama’s ‘army’
Triumph Tiger/Special Edition

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14

Get the Flash Player to see the videos.

Getting in contact with a pretender for the “Ultimate Superbike” title can be a mind blowing experience, especially if you’re suppose to ride the hell out of the thing, but the 2009 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14 adds a little more to that feel. It’s all about the imposing dimensions and the constant thought of knowing that underneath you grumbles this manufacturer’s biggest and most evolved motor to be mounted on a superbike-type motorcycle.

We recently got a feel of the latest 1400cc Ninja and the facts are incontestable: Hayabusa, you got yourself a strong competitor.





PROMISES, PROMISES: Obama rhetoric, reality clash
Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R
Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R

Monday, March 23, 2009

Ducati Streetfighter S will be available in US by May

Ducati Streetfighter S will be available in US by May


Ducati’s latest streetfighter model, a 155bhp and 114Nm motorcycle that was unveiled at the 2008 EICMA show in Milan is scheduled to hit US dealerships in May. The Italian naked style apparently starts to catch on to riders in America. We couldn’t be surprised as the Ducati Streetfighter S gets a new subframe, a redesigned cooling system that reduces width, fully digital instrumentation and 1098-derived features such as the 25.6 degree rake (24.5 degrees on the 1098), and the 35mm longer swingarm.

Also, units such as the 43mm Ă–hlins USD fork, fully adjustable Ă–hlins monoshock, five-spoke forged alloy Marchesini wheels couldn’t have missed from any high-spec Ducati and neither the Ducati Data Analysis system and Ducati Traction Control (DTC) which are aimed at harnessing the loads of horsepower and torque moving the 167 kg mass (dry).

In what Ducati is concerned, where there is an “S” model, a standard bike must be around somewhere and this case makes no exception. There is the Streetfighter S available either Red or Black painted, but featuring bronze-painted chassis and wheels and the standard Streetfighter available in Red and White and featuring black wheels or dark-grey wheels. The difference between the two bikes is also made by $4,000 as the Streetfighter S starts at $18,995 and the standard Streetfighter model starts at $14,995. This last is expected to be available in the US by August.





Ducati 1000 SS Concept
Clinton to visit Mexico to support drug crackdown

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R


In 2009, the Kawasaki ZX-6R follows the trajectory of the previous year’s ZX-10R model, refining the engine and chassis, the first for more power and torque and the second for sharper handling around the corners. Also, the bike is designed like its bigger sibling, leaving no clear difference between the two Kawasaki models.



Obama shifts to more upbeat economic message
Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R
Raúl Castro shakes up brain trust in Cuba

Alien vs. Predator Bikes

Alien vs. Predator Bikes


Probably the most famous science fiction film, Alien vs. Predator has inspired the creation of some of the ugliest motorcycles on the face of the EARTH. These bikes are from Thailand so the movie must have fans there too.



Obama takes on role of nation’s confidence-builder
Yamaha will build 20 per cent more economic engines
Cuba policy provision could stall Obama appointments

Recall issued for 2008 BMW F800 GS

Recall issued for 2008 BMW F800 GS


A problem related to the axle shaft wall thickness determined BMW of North America to recall model year 2008 F800 GS motorcycles. According to the German manufacturer, the axle shaft wall thickness may not have been manufactured according to specifications resulting into the possibility of the axle shaft to deform and increase the risk of accidents.

The correction consists in dealers inspecting the axle shaft assembly and replacing or repairing the necessary components free of charge. Although BMW has not yet started the owner notification schedule, all 2008 BMW F800 GS owners can call BMW at 1-800-831-1117 and see the solving of their possible problem from there.

Taking such a measure over a specific model does not necessarily mean that all bikes recalled are affected and that are imminent dangers riding down the streets, but that the manufacturer has a responsible approach towards their customer safety and try to exclude all possible risks of a crash due to mechanical failure.





Honda Fury Roadster Sibling
Honda Fury Roadster Sibling
Obama shifts to more upbeat economic message
Obama: Stocks are a `potentially good deal’

Sunday, March 22, 2009

Norton Café Racer made in the US

Norton Café Racer made in the US


Since when did American builders turned their heads towards Norton Commandos? Not for long, but they do some of the best and most expensive Norton Commandos ($39,500 each) in the Colorado Norton Works located in the Rocky Mountains.

In an attempt to retain the original look and sound, the bike called Norton CafĂ©, uses an 865cc British parallel twin so it isn’t that American after all. The project is run by Matt Rambow who plans to built only 13 such motorcycles in batches of three until the summer of 2010.

Modern times call modern features so the engine is fuel injected and develops 60bhp, there is a pair of Brembo disc brakes, a CNC-machined cylinder head, 2-inch lowered suspensions, a hydraulic clutch, belt primary drive and hand made alloy body panels.

Bad news if you plan on buying one in the near future. Motorcycle enthusiast Richard Barks has already ordered the first of these Norton Café motorcycles made in the US.





Norton Commando 961 is back. Any others sitting in line?
GOP to provide alternative budget to Obama’s

TopSpeed readers’ giveaway update

TopSpeed readers’ giveaway update


We’ve recently been proud to announce that we have teamed up with No Fear Energy to reward the best comment of this month so as time is running out, it’s recommended for us to mention that there might be some stiff competition for the No Fear gift pack valued at $100.

This includes:

2 – No Fear Hoodies
2 – No Fear T-shirts (one of each style)
1 – No Fear Bloodshot Hat
1 – 12-pack of the new No Fear Bloodshot Energy Drink
1 – Sticky Bumps Surf Wax
1 – Lamb of God’s latest CD “Wrath” releasing on Feb. 24

The end of this month will see us selecting the best comments that you’ve posted and with a little bit of luck, we might just contact you to give the good news. So keep on bringing the best of you until March 31st in order to increase your winning chances. Good luck!





TopSpeed readers’ giveaway
GOP to provide alternative budget to Obama’s
Republicans say Obama’s budget plan too costly

Saturday, March 21, 2009

Baby Ride - the latest invention from Givi

Baby Ride - the latest invention from Givi


Responsible riders who want carry their children as passengers are now offered the ideal solution from Italian motorcycle accessories and equipment company Givi. They have invented the so-called Baby Ride which is no more than a baby seat similar to ones used in cars and which is belted on the back end of 650cc scooters (that’s why the full name is Baby Ride S650).

The special seat is destined to kids in between 5 and 8 years of age and offers proper lateral support as well as a pair of handles and belt footrests. Made of expanded polyurethane, the Baby Ride is both comfortable and rigid so it meets the most important demands for such a task. For more information, visit the company’s official website at www.givi.it.





Palin seeks more candidates for open Senate seat
Standbike V8 Concept Monster
3Z Scale Bulldog R/C Rider transforms into Quad
Thousands rally in Tallahassee to protest cuts to Florida schools

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R

Kawasaki Ninja 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 either) 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.





Kawasaki Z750 Redluxe by Ad Koncept
Florida Legislature studies pay cuts for state workers

Friday, March 20, 2009

Norton Commando 961 is back. Any others sitting in line?

Norton Commando 961 is back. Any others sitting in line?


The British motorcycle journalists from MCN have recently tested the new Norton Commando and apart from their best impressions on the bike, they’ve also provided the internet world with a more than decent photo gallery that reflects the best of this revamped bike.

Featuring brembo brakes, ohlins suspension as well as light-weight carbon fiber wheels, the new Commando is not only Norton’s alternative for the Triumph Thruxton, but a machine capable of becoming a benchmark for the class.

The bike is still in pre-production stages, but chief designer Simon Skinner says: “We want to retain the sihouette of this prototype because it’s a very pretty little bike - butch but pretty." so chances are that not much will differ on the final version.

Inspired by the new Norton Commando, the MCN crew offer people the possibility to vote if British bike brands such as Norton, Hesketh and Brough should be revived or not. So what do you thing?





Jamaica installs new governor general
5 to watch: key players and issues
Ducati 1000 SS Concept

Nicky Hayden - the face fronting US Military safety campaign

Nicky Hayden - the face fronting US Military safety campaign


2006 MotoGP World Champion and Ducati’s latest recruit, Nicky Hayden has taken the time during the winter brake to help the Motorcycle Industry Council in the US promote safe riding among the nation’s armed forces.

The American pilot went to the Los Alamitos air base in Southern California to be part of a photo shoot to promote the safety campaign. The pictures (see the photo gallery) and video taken there will be used in all US armed forces bases in the US and across the globe as part of the safety campaign.





Does Maria Sharapova have a passion for choppers?
Raúl Castro shakes up brain trust in Cuba
Norton Commando 961 is back. Any others sitting in line?

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Triumph Rocket |||

Triumph Rocket |||


If the 2009 Triumph Rocket ||| doesn’t lead the power cruiser class then I don’t know what does. Surprisingly easy to maneuver, great performing, and extremely good looking, the British largest capacity production motorcycle is here to stay.

While cruisers such as the America and the Speedmaster are revamped as 2009 model years thanks to the fuel injection system ensuring that Euro 3 regulations are met, the Rocket ||| models are found in the situation of saying “been there, done that” and simply carry on enjoying the tremendous success ensured mostly by pure muscle and bad boy looks.





Obama shifts to more upbeat economic message
Triumph Speedmaster
Clinton to visit Mexico to support drug crackdown

Standbike V8 Concept Monster

Standbike V8 Concept Monster


Very often, the need to stand out as a builder is the supreme motivation for teams behind some of the most extraordinary projects. Chances are that this is also the case of Standbike’s V8 extreme concept motorbike. Considered a monster of two-wheeled vehicles, this machine here is, as unbelievable as it might sound, ready-to-ride.

But it has come a very long way from beginning to finalization (eight years, to be precise) and it is all due to numerous individual technical solutions that had to be implemented. Although the wide wheels featuring a flat profile don’t lean on turns, the bike’s body does. The body is also the one carrying most of the vehicle’s mass (520 kg) so that can’t sound like an easy task.

The engine is an old style V8 displacing 305-cubic-inch and it is built by General Motors while the mechanical gearbox features 4+1 (for reverse) gears. Weighing a total of 690 kg and measuring 3210mm in length, this is definitely one motorcycle that can’t be easily pushed backwards so that’s why there is a reverse gear.

All steering and leaning maneuvers are performed with assistance from hydraulic and electronic systems and, quite frankly, by the way that this bike looks like, it sure needs those systems.

So, what do you think of Standbike now after seeing what they’re capable of?





Hybrid Chopper Concept
Jamaica installs new governor general
Obama to lift restrictions on stem-cell research funding
Standbike’s SuperBikeBoard is ridiculously useless, but fun

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Triumph Thruxton

Get the Flash Player to see the videos.

Take a first glance at the new Triumph Thruxton and you’ll have troubles spotting the essence of the 2009 model year not only because the bike looks just like it did in 2008, but also because the fuel injection system is beautifully camouflaged in a pair of carburetors and so retains Thruxton’s legendary racing look.

The racing bike from Triumph’s glory days, now a combination between the cafĂ© racing style and modern engineering, the 2009 Thruxton is a direct hit into any nostalgic’s sensible heart. Let’s see what more.





Triumph America
GOP chairman apologizes for Limbaugh remarks
US closely watching NKorea for possible test-fire
Triumph Sprint ST

Triumph Scrambler

Get the Flash Player to see the videos.

The Triumph Scrambler is an everyday reminder of how off-road bikes used to be built in the past and as a 2009 model year it gets even better with the addition of fuel injection and a new color range that reflects more of the model’s abilities from the very first look taken at it.

Powerful, reliable, but most of all versatile, the original British idea of an all around motorcycle remains strong on today’s competitive market and such a statement is not to be neglected.





Obama: Stocks are a `potentially good deal’
Jamaica installs new governor general
Triumph Sprint ST

Honda Fury Roadster Sibling

Honda Fury Roadster Sibling


The Honda Fury project developed along five years specially for the US market and officially launched this January in New York has apparently lead to the creation of a roadster version. These sketches have been patented by Honda in the United States of America and Japanese engineers consider this model a way to fully explore the potential of the V-twin engine powering the Fury.

Called RV2, the project features elements that are more likely to be found on American choppers rather than on factory motorcycles – a massive tubular steel frame and imposing custom wheels – while British influences such as the low bars and flat seat design add a cafĂ© racer look to it. Furthermore, for keeping the Fury engine and shaft drive previously used on the VTX series, Honda masks the radiator in the front end of the frame.

Honda’s Roadster model sketches also unveil an upside down fork, a 320mm front disc brake with four piston calipers as well as a unique exhaust system ending up under the seat.

Although there is no actual information related to a possible finalization of this project, the Honda Roadster 1300 could become a serious contender on the US market for various Buell models and even the Yamaha MT-01.





Palin seeks more candidates for open Senate seat
Honda Fury Roadster Sibling
Bolt-on supercharger kit radically upgrades the Honda VFR800

Honda Fury Roadster Sibling

Honda Fury Roadster Sibling


The Honda Fury project developed along five years specially for the US market and officially launched this January in New York has apparently lead to the creation of a roadster version. These sketches have been patented by Honda in the United States of America and Japanese engineers consider this model a way to fully explore the potential of the V-twin engine powering the Fury.

Called RV2, the project features elements that are more likely to be found on American choppers rather than on factory motorcycles – a massive tubular steel frame and imposing custom wheels – while British influences such as the low bars and flat seat design add a cafĂ© racer look to it. Furthermore, for keeping the Fury engine and shaft drive previously used on the VTX series, Honda masks the radiator in the front end of the frame.

Honda’s Roadster model sketches also unveil an upside down fork, a 320mm front disc brake with four piston calipers as well as a unique exhaust system ending up under the seat.

Although there is no actual information related to a possible finalization of this project, the Honda Roadster 1300 could become a serious contender on the US market for various Buell models and even the Yamaha MT-01.





Honda Fury Roadster Sibling
Bolt-on supercharger kit radically upgrades the Honda VFR800
Palin seeks more candidates for open Senate seat

Monday, March 16, 2009

Burger Trike

Burger Trike


Two symbols of the United States, the burger and Harley-Davidson motorcycles unite into an incredibly strange looking and most likely smelling combination, the Burger Trike. Harry Sperl is the name behind this unlikely project and the sacrificed bike is a 1987 Harley-Davidson.

This crazy looking thing has even onion-like rear wheels while the front rim looks like a tomato slice so the menu is complete and ready to be served.





Red Widow concept by Troyano
GOP chairman apologizes for Limbaugh remarks

Triumph America

Get the Flash Player to see the videos.

Sometimes it isn’t recommended to go ahead and buy the first motorcycle that looks like perfect to fulfill your riding needs even though your every single cell tells you to do so simply because there can always be an even more adequate alternative. That’s why we have the competition heading in all of our reviews, but in this case that’s not going to be the solution.

Now, we’ve just wrote about the latest Triumph Speedmaster and that custom bike couldn’t have left you with a bad impression, but people may want to go for the classic bike, and that’s where the 2009 Triumph America intervenes. So if you haven’t already made a deposit for the Speedmaster, the America can blink an eye at you as it is more comfortable without losing any of the British magic look.





Clinton to visit Mexico to support drug crackdown
Triumph Speedmaster

Sunday, March 15, 2009

Motorcycle jewel robbery caught on tape by CNN

Motorcycle jewel robbery caught on tape by CNN


A CNN crew filming a book release on Oxford Street in London suddenly got lucky when four riders on two motorcycles smashed the window of a jewelry store and grabbed as much valuables before making their escape. Although the guys look like amateurs, they actually planned the heist pretty well. For starters, it didn’t take them long and the highly revved engines covered the sound of the shop windows as they were broken with a sledgehammer.

The police was soon on the scene, but neither the helmet wearing riders nor the bikes have been identified yet.





Zero Motorcycles organizes 24-hour endurance event. You’re invited!
Prime minister’s tough talk aside, China’s fortunes tied to U.S.
Palin seeks more candidates for open Senate seat

Triumph Bonneville

Get the Flash Player to see the videos.

Triumph revamps the 2009 Bonneville lineup for the model’s 50th anniversary and we dare saying from the very beginning that it is their best one yet. The facts backing this affirmation up consist in both the addition of a fuel injection system for the legendary powerplant as well as the introduction of two all-new models apart from the T100 one.

Although the British motorcycle manufacturer was keen on retaining the original 1960s look of the Bonneville, the New and SE models are both modern interpretations of their old timer’s sibling and, of course, they feature the same engine.





Triumph Sprint ST
Business groups seek job creation
Triumph Speedmaster
Obama: Stocks are a `potentially good deal’

Ducati Maxi-Scooter design

Ducati Maxi-Scooter design


Due to the fact that Ducati is likely to create an all-new maxi scooter, kind of in the style of Honda’s DN-01, designer Xavier Gordillo has created this incredibly accurate sketch revealing how the two-wheeler might just look. Published on the Spanish Solomoto30 website, the ‘Ducatone’ design features a trellis frame and a two-valved engine, possibly borrowed from the Monster 696 or even the 1100.

Given the aggressive lines and comfortable riding position, this anticipation looks like being close to what Ducati has in mind, but the DN-01 will still lack competitors a long time from now as there is no certitude related to the concept being approved.





Business groups seek job creation
Ducati 1000 SS Concept
Standbike’s SuperBikeBoard is ridiculously useless, but fun

Fur-covered helmets unveiled at the Paris Fashion Show

Fur-covered helmets unveiled at the Paris Fashion Show


German fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld has come up with some unique creations the past weekend at the Paris Fashion Show. This fully functional motorcycle fur helmet is mink-covered and actually part of the designer’s winter 2010 ready-to-wear collection.

"Now everyone is on scooters, even chic women, so we had to do the helmet," said Lagerfeld who is currently working for Chanel and Fendi.

The fur helmets are also fitted with an iPod connection so they follow the industry’s trend with great accuracy and yet in a unique way. I just wonder what people are going to thing when seeing these things in traffic.





GOP chairman apologizes for Limbaugh remarks
Democrats blast Limbaugh for comment on Kennedy
Does Maria Sharapova have a passion for choppers?
Zero Motorcycles organizes 24-hour endurance event. You’re invited!

Saturday, March 14, 2009

Triumph Speedmaster

Get the Flash Player to see the videos.
Together with the Bonneville engine’s fuel injection upgrade, virtually all classic/custom motorcycles in the Triumph lineup are new in that concern. This implies the 2009 Speedmaster too, but what’s really the strong point of this motorcycle is attitude so the only thing that the new model year brings is more grunt to back those bad boy looks up.



Obama names urban affairs director
US closely watching NKorea for possible test-fire
Triumph Speed Triple Carbon Fiber Limited Edition

3Z Scale Bulldog R/C Rider transforms into Quad

3Z Scale Bulldog R/C Rider transforms into Quad


Multifunctional products might be exactly what the kid in each one of us looks for when buying either an R/C car or a quad. The best of 3Z Scale’s Buldog R/C rider is that it combines fun with practicability in a way that we haven’t yet had the honor to see before. This remote controlled vehicle features a stadium truck body, but underneath which an 110cc four-stroke engine, automatic transmission, disc brakes, independent suspensions and aluminum wheels package is ready to keep things interesting with and especially without the rider on it.

The big size R/C can be piloted using a 2.4 GHz radio transmitter, but also as a fun all terrain vehicle. The handlebars are there simply because the Buldog can’t be remote controlled with the rider actually on it, but that’s what makes things interesting from our point of view. Being 4’2” long and weighing almost 200 pounds, this thing can provide a veritable off-road ride, but you better check it out for yourselves in the video attached after the jump.





Superman and his personalized Vespa
Dem spat delays mortgage relief bill in House
Defending herself on spending, Palin gives up taxable vehicle

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Does Maria Sharapova have a passion for choppers?

Does Maria Sharapova have a passion for choppers?


Tennis player Maria Sharapova is not only famous for her great achievements in the world of sports, but also because of her sexy pictorials as she is kind of caught up by modeling too. Ok, so why are we talking about this on TopSpeed? Well, the reason is simple and unveiled by the picture gallery.

The Russian blonde recently posed on a chopper and that’s enough reason for us to share these pictures with you. Notice how in this case, the girl is the focusing point and not the motorcycle? That’s how your galleries are when you’re that famous.





Young Pamela Anderson posing as Suzuki girl
California Legislature OKs budget plan

Superman and his personalized Vespa

Superman and his personalized Vespa


How’s this for a superhero vehicle?

Considering that Superman has a reputation to maintain, we simply can’t help wondering how the idea of a custom painted Vespa scooter came to him when searching for a motorized two-wheeled vehicle. Unless this thing is strongly upgraded to match the performance of a let’s say 2009 Yamaha R1 (which I seriously doubt and still wouldn’t be worthy of the rider), this thing is just a silly joke.

It’s a bird. It’s a plane. No, it’s just Superman on his classic Italian scooter.





Vespa Daniela: the wooden scooter
Political elite turns out for Clinton swearing-in
Standbike’s SuperBikeBoard is ridiculously useless, but fun

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Ducati 1000 SS Concept

Ducati 1000 SS Concept


The skillful hand of the Italian motorcycle sketch designer Oberdan Bezzi creates an impressively accurate Ducati 1000 Supersport concept motorcycle.

Apart from the Ducati 1000 SS shown both in yellow and red, the same artist also visualizes a Ducati TT 1000 combining both colors. While this last looks more like a racing bike from the 1990s, the first looks like the proper bike to inherit 999 S’s place in Ducati’s lineup.





Will Ducati build a V Rod competitor?
Fidel Castro’s reemergence stirs little emotion among Cubans
Congress starts final stimulus debate
2010 Ducati Multistrada new rendering

Standbike’s SuperBikeBoard is ridiculously useless, but fun

Standbike’s SuperBikeBoard is ridiculously useless, but fun


Hmm…isn’t there something missing on this scooter? The Standbike SuperBikeBoard concept is actually a proposal towards a whole new and interesting way of having fun on a scooter and yes, it doesn’t have a seat. Build by a group of Hungarian enthusiasts, this 250cc Aprilia-powered scooter looks like a board, one that can reach a top speed of 87 mph.

So how dangerous is that, anyway? Enough to create a whole new custom tubular aluminum frame and procure a set of performance suspension and braking equipment. This thing also gets a flat floor and raised handlebars for quick reach. It is ridden just like a usual scooter, only that standing.

The SuperBikeBoard is currently destined for kart tracks and parking lots and there is also a detachable seat available just in case they want to go street legal.





Vespa Daniela: the wooden scooter
Palin seeks more candidates for open Senate seat
Honda CBR600RR Quad by WesllCorp

Kawasaki Z750 Redluxe by Ad Koncept

Kawasaki Z750 Redluxe by Ad Koncept


This is the Kawasaki Z750 Redluxe, the latest creation of the French company Ad Koncept which specializes in motorcycle tuning. The Z750 was the best selling 2008 bike in France and also the subject of many transformations by tuning companies.

The Ad Koncept portofolio alone features three different Z750 models, but the Redluxe streetfighter is by far the greatest yet. This features a unique look and comes with an impressive list of aftermarket components: Rizoma signal lights, mirrors, handlebars and grab rails, Kawasaki ZX-6R brake components and forks, Motax carbon side covers, monopost top, rear fender and radiator grill as well as SC Project carbon exhaust silencer and bugspoiler.

In the characteristic style, the French have gone for an attractive two-tone paintjob – Red with Black in this case – and the price isn’t that scary either. The Redluxe starts at 10.809 € which translates in $13,723.

For more information (if you’re good with French) go to the Ad Koncept website.





Kawasaki goes ECO2Logic
Did Obama make news at the Newseum? Who knows?

Aprilia taking online orders for their RSV4

Aprilia taking online orders for their RSV4


Ordering an Aprilia RSV4 can be as easy as checking your mail as long as you’ve got a great will to buy one and £2000 for a down payment. It’s really that easy. All that future owners have to do is go to the Aprilia RSV4 dedicated webside and place their orders. Then, they have to make a £2000 deposit at the local dealer and count the days until their new acquisition arrives.

All those interested should hurry up as the first 10 RSV4s already have names on them. It seems that the much awaited Italian bike brings that refreshing feel of a totally different engine (at least that’s what we think it sells best).





Aprilia RSV4 official racing colors
Venezuelan opposition lacks power, despite electoral wins
Aprilia RSV4 Factory will make it to the US

EVA Track T-800CDI

EVA Track T-800CDI


EVA Products are new motorcycle producers based in The Netherlands and they have designed and build 15 prototypes of the Track T-800CDI diesel motorcycles in the last 3.5 years. Half a year ago they finished that faze and are now in a production modus. The intention and planning is to build 150 units this year and for 2010 and 2011 they are going from 5 a week to 25 a week.

That’s just worth a preview!





Fidel Castro’s reemergence stirs little emotion among Cubans
Diesel and 2WD combine to deliver the EVA Track T-800CDI

Monday, March 9, 2009

Hybrid Chopper Concept

Hybrid Chopper Concept


If you ever wondered how a chopper would be like without the characteristic massive V-twin engine, sound as well as flawless lines and came to the conclusion that it would be rubbish, I say reconsider. This, for instance is a chopper concept featuring a hybrid powertrain in an attempt to offer pretty much the same riding position, feel and attitude, but in the green way.

The author at Fish Design considers it "A future concept with environmentally friendly techniques. The purpose was to find a future concept for custom motorcycles, without a "real" engine, sound or traditional design. I wish to attract a cool target group. The hybrid power train is not as beautiful as the traditional custom engine (v-twin). How does that affect the esthetical function? The keyword for my design is “powerful elegance”

To us, the bodywork looks like a stylish suitcase from the future as we suppose that the battery pack lays there and it has to be removed in order to be recharged, but those are details that the author should worry about. In what concerns the Fat Boy-like wheels, they integrate perfectly in the overall design and add a cleaner look to the bike apart from showing that it is actually made to roll down the future’s highways.





Republicans are trying to find a voice and a direction
Swordfish Concept Chopper - a window toward hubless wheeled bikes of the future

EV-0 RR - TTXGP Zero Carbon Fuel Grand Prix Motorcycle

EV-0 RR - TTXGP Zero Carbon Fuel Grand Prix Motorcycle


This here is the work of Mark Wells from Xenophya Design, a motorcycle with zero emissions which was specially created (in photoshop, what’s fair) for the TTXGP, the zero carbon fuel race scheduled for June 12th, on the same day as the premier Senior TT event. The bike is supposed to run on a 37.73 mile Isle of Man TT course.

Called EV-0 RR, the bike will use a composite monocoque chassis and a double whishbone front end from Steve Linsdell’s TT bike.

So now that the design aspect has been taken care of, how is the sound issue going to be solved?





Ducati 999 S Full Carbon
Unveiled: Mission One EV - World’s Fastest Production Electric Sportbike
Ray Sansom probe turns to secretive college meeting

Triumph Tiger/Special Edition

Get the Flash Player to see the videos.

Triumph makes sure that their most versatile model, the Tiger remains a strong player on the market and the presence of a Special Edition model in their lineup is just what the doctor recommended for riders in search of an adventure-sport model. The bike is based on the Tiger ABS, but distinguishes thanks to a Matt Graphite and Matt Black color scheme as well as with a pair of color-matched sidebags, just like the 2009 Sprint ST gets.

A first glance at the standard 2009 Triumph Tiger is enough to make you think that the bike is totally new, but what actually sets it apart from the previous model year are the attractive new color schemes and the touring upgrades that the Brits simply had to have for their wild model.

While the color schemes as well as the accessories are for you to decide, what they don’t offer the possibility to decide for is the 1050cc three-cylinder engine producing 113bhp at 9,400rpm and 100Nm at 6,250rpm, as that would actually be the main reason why people buy the bike. Also, the Triumph Tiger features sports suspensions and rubber as well as Nissin brakes, making it an adequate sport-touring bike rather than the dual-purpose one that first made an entry back in the early 1990s.





Obamas take break to watch Sasha play basketball
U.S. commander foresees `tough year’ in Afghanistan
Triumph Sprint ST
Triumph Speed Triple Carbon Fiber Limited Edition

Saturday, March 7, 2009

Triumph Sprint ST

Get the Flash Player to see the videos.

It’s long been said that bikers evolve with age so while the Daytona 675 is the dream of any passionate in his early twenties, the Triumph Sprint ST is a family guy’s idea of a sport tourer. If that’s the case, I’m getting married as soon as possible.

The bike is extremely reliable and versatile while also retaining the British style and finesse with performance to back it up.





Kawasaki Versys Tourer heads into production
Palin gets as close to Washington insiders as Alaska is to, well, Russia
Obama’s executive style a mix of many elements — and it’s evolving

Bultaco Picador 400

Bultaco Picador 400


Wait, does this mean what I think it means? Is the Picador 400 going to revive the old Spanish motorcycle company called Bultaco? According to this picture, there are a lot of chances for this all purpose motorcycle powered by a 400cc single-cylinder engine to breath life back into the long vanished company as it looks like great fun and user-friendly as well. A great marketing strategy and a common goal could just do the trick.

Bultaco built two-stroke motorcycles from 1958 to 1983 and were even involved in the Spanish Grand Prix, but the motorcycle company dissolved as its two heads had different visions.





Is this the most aerodynamic motorcycle ever or what?
Miami banker who gave away $60 million is hailed in Obama speech
Motobecane Motivo electric urban motorcycle
Elizabeth Edwards writes new book

Aprilia RSV4 Factory will make it to the US

Aprilia RSV4 Factory will make it to the US


Piaggio Group USA President and CEO Paolo Timoni told Hell for Leather how the Aprilia RSV4 will eventually be sold in the United States during the final quarter of 2009. Although first revealed last September, Aprilia’s 180bhp, 85lb/ft, 179 kg (dry) superbike barely makes it for the 2009 introduction and mostly because of SBK homologation requirements. Accordingly to these, a returning manufacturer must build at least 250 units for initial homologation and 1000 units by June of the first year in racing and that’s precisely the scenario we’re witnessing.

Independently of their motives for introducing the Factory version of the RSV4 till the end of the year, we’re extremely happy to find a potent European contender going against the dominating Japanese crowd.





Obama names urban affairs director
Aprilia RSV4 official racing colors
It’s a fact! The 2009 BMW S1000RR will feature ABS and traction control
Defense chief says Obama more analytical than Bush

Friday, March 6, 2009

Unstoppable crew

Unstoppable crew


Who cares about the average traveling speed when you can traverse all kinds of terrains? That’s what we tend to think when first seeing this picture. Another way to humorize about it could be: this is one eco-friendly elephant as it prefers to carry both his owner and the guy’s motorcycle so that the environment will be just a little cleaner.

But, if you look in the back of the picture, you’ll see that that’s no grassland and all possible funny phrases fade away. It’s sad to go from one state to the other by looking at the same image.





Fidel Castro’s reemergence stirs little emotion among Cubans
Unstoppable crew

Unstoppable crew

Unstoppable crew


Who cares about the average traveling speed when you can traverse all kinds of terrains? That’s what we tend to think when first seeing this picture. Another way to humorize about it could be: this is one eco-friendly elephant as it prefers to carry both his owner and the guy’s motorcycle so that the environment will be just a little cleaner.

But, if you look in the back of the picture, you’ll see that that’s no grassland and all possible funny phrases fade away. It’s sad to go from one state to the other by looking at the same image.





Unstoppable crew
Fidel Castro’s reemergence stirs little emotion among Cubans

Thursday, March 5, 2009

Red Widow concept by Troyano

Red Widow concept by Troyano


Before sharing our personal opinion on this bike, let’s see what the artist itself has to say about it: "Red Widow - Motor Fantasy. A Futuristic revolutionary motorcycle, conceptual motorcycle design. A concept bike, a hybrid between your classic motorbike and sci-fi motor vehicle."

Ok, that’s a nice idea to wake up in mind with and the name is appropriate too, but as much as we’d like to revolutionize this industry we shouldn’t forget the basics. For instance, the round tire profile should never be dismissed if we plan to lean the bike in order to take it fast around corners. Once we do that, it is very likely to scrap the knees so better use protective gear…though the virtual legs look good, don’t they?





Obama and Congress collide on school improvement funds
Jet Bike of the Future

TopSpeed readers’ giveaway

TopSpeed readers’ giveaway


Active visitors of TopSpeed are offered the opportunity to win a prize from ’No Fear’ as part of a much more complex promotion that they have organized.

The main contest

People can win a trip to a motocross event or MMA event or a Hawaiian surf trip. Here’s how the contest goes. No Fear Energy has launched its first-ever under the tab code promotion—Earn Some Cred. You crack open specially marked cans of No Fear Energy drink, find the code under the tab, enter that code at earnsomecred.com and start earning cred for No Fear gear or if you’re lucky, win one of the VIP trips I mentioned above.

The TopSpeed contest

All comments submitted on our website until March 31st will be carefully read and compared in order for us to indicate the best comment of the month and congratulate the winner with a No Fear gift pack valued at $100.

The giveaway pack includes:

2 – No Fear Hoodies 2 – No Fear T-shirts (one of each style) 1 – No Fear Bloodshot Hat 1 – 12-pack of the new No Fear Bloodshot Energy Drink 1 – Sticky Bumps Surf Wax 1 – Lamb of God’s latest CD “Wrath” releasing on Feb. 24

So what are you waiting for? Post comments to the news and reviews you like most and if you’re good, you’ll hear from us pretty soon.

Don’t forget; the more you comment, the more you increase your winning chances!





Ex-Senate aide charged in Abramoff scandal
State Sen. Dan Gelber to run for U.S. Senate
Women wins Harley-Davidson “Build it and Win It” Contest

Zero Motorcycles organizes 24-hour endurance event. You’re invited!

Zero Motorcycles organizes 24-hour endurance event. You’re invited!


Zero Motorcycles offers to everyone owning an electric motorcycle, ATV or quad the change to put their name in the record books on 4th of April. They are the organizers of world’s first 24 hour off-road endurance event destined to electric bikes and all riders are invited to a racing incursion in the world of battery-powered vehicles.

The event will take place in San Jose at the 408MX Motocross Track and it is all covered By Zero Motorcycle, including free food and drinks for everyone. All that you have to do is register until March 20th and be there on the event’s date.

All competitors will win a prize, but only those who make it to the podium will take home a trophy. Even those who don’t own an electric bike should be prepared for a surprise from Zero Motorcycles. Ok, that’s all I’m saying apart from the fact that buying a Zero X motorcycle can get you approximately $745 back in sales tax deduction.





Palin gets as close to Washington insiders as Alaska is to, well, Russia
Jay Leno’s garage: 2009 Zero X motorcycle
Jay Leno’s garage: 2009 Zero X motorcycle

Yamaha will build 20 per cent more economic engines

Yamaha will build 20 per cent more economic engines


Yamaha Motors have announced they are working to improve the fuel efficiency of their motorcycle engines with 20 per cent compared to the present models. Apparently, they plan to revise various engine components and develop an entirely new fuel injection system in order to improve fuel economy that much and, we suppose, not lose any power and torque in the process.

Stricter and stricter environmental legislation will have Yamaha mounting their first such engine – a 125cc one – from a series of many on bikes destined to Southeast Asia. Yamaha will then undergo the same procedure for large displacement engines that will power bikes planed to be sold in US and Europe.

Yamaha is so keen on implementing the new economic engines as fast as possible that they have gathered the minds and experience of approximately 100 engineers from their large-bike development. With such mobilization, results aren’t expected to be late and the benefits are obvious for everyone.





2009 Yamaha YZR-M1 runs out of secrets
Politically, stimulus battle has just begun
Obama adviser: Nation can afford big stimulus plan