Autoblog

MotoGP to return to 1000cc format, MotoCzysz back in the mix?

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 07:58:00 EST

After a few years experimenting with 800cc engines in MotoGP, the Grand Prix Commission has just announced a switch back to 1000cc powerplants with the added caveat that they must have bore centers of 81 millimeters. These new regulations are set to go into effect for the 2012 racing season, and at least one small player is happy about the change. On the official MotoCzyst blog, Michael Czysz wrote:

The 2012 season is a great opportunity! MotoCzysz now has the base motorcycle, enough time and rules actually leaning a little in our favor - we could not ask for a better opportunity. Let's hope others feel the way I do. There is heavy lifting to be done but great things can be accomplished with many hands and the assistance of a few true believers.

It would seem that Czysz would have a leg up on the competition in getting a MotoGP platform ready for 2012 since the company's four-cylinder C1 was initially designed to compete in the 1000cc class. It's unclear at this point if MotoCzysz will continue developing its electric E1 platform or if it will focus all of its efforts on getting a bike on the MotoGP grid for 2012. Or, ya know, neither of the above.

[Source: MotoCzysz via Asphalt and Rubber]

MotoGP to return to 1000cc format, MotoCzysz back in the mix? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Motorcycle + rocket launcher = mayhem

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 15:58:00 EST

Filed under: Videos, Motorcycle

Motorcycle Rocket Launcher - Click above to watch the video after the jump

The last time we were out riding a sportbike, it occurred to us that the most pressing thing missing from modern two-wheelers is weaponry. No, really. Think back in history for a moment... back to the days when horses provided the bulk of our transportation options. Whether it was the days of armored knights or mounted cavalrymen, one thing was constant: weapons. So, shouldn't we be packing a little sumthin' on our modern-day steel horses?

At least one enterprising 2006 Honda CBR owner seems to agree with us, and thankfully he's taken the initial steps to do something about it. How so? By adding a side-mounted rocket launcher. One button click is all it takes to send what appears to be a bottle rocket shooting off into the distance ahead. We'll go ahead and assume more substantial artillery will come with future revisions. Click past the break to watch the video. Hat tip to yknott!

[Source: The Biker Gene]

Continue reading VIDEO: Motorcycle + rocket launcher = mayhem

VIDEO: Motorcycle + rocket launcher = mayhem originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Moto Guzzi refines performance cruiser recipe with Griso 8V SE

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 17:19:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle

Moto Guzzi Griso 8V SE - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's unlikely that Moto Guzzi is the first brand you think of when talk turns to Italian motorcycles, but the manufacturer has a long history of producing desirable V-twin-powered machines and still offers a number of interesting models to consider. Chief among them is the latest version of the Griso, seen above.

The most noticeable feature that sets Guzzi's new Griso 8V SE apart from its standard siblings are the classically Italian paint colors: either Tenni green or Rosso Mandello red with a blacked-out powertrain. A nicely-stitched leather seat and wire-spoked wheels round out the visual modifications.

Just as importantly, though, the Griso 8V SE manages to boost torque output by five lb-ft to 85, though horsepower remains steady at 110. That extra power comes courtesy of revised cam profiles and fuel injectors, along with a larger airbox that helps Moto Guzzi's eight-valve Quattrovalvole breathe a bit better. Check out our high-res gallery below and make the jump for the official press release.

Gallery: 2010 Moto Guzzi Griso 8V SE

[Source: Moto Guzzi via Hell For Leather]

Continue reading Moto Guzzi refines performance cruiser recipe with Griso 8V SE

Moto Guzzi refines performance cruiser recipe with Griso 8V SE originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 Dec 2009 17:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Triumph releases 2010 Thruxton SE, we like what we see

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 11:28:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle

2010 Triumph Thruxton SE - Click above for high-res image gallery

As far as we're concerned, there will always be a market for sporty vintage-styled machinery like the Triumph Thruxton. After all, not everyone needs 150 horsepower and 200 mile-per-hour top speeds to have a good time on two wheels, and few motorcycles possess the kind of style that Hinckley bakes into its line of modern classics.

This is especially true of the new 2010 Thruxton SE, which gets a Crystal White paint job on the tins with a single red stripe and a matching red powdercoated frame. Completing the package is a small flyscreen, black engine cases and a smattering of appropriate decals.

There aren't any changes to the sportiest Bonnie's 865cc parallel-twin powerplant, which puts out a claimed 68 horsepower and 51 lb-ft of torque. While we'd gladly take at least a little power boost, if we were in the market for such a bike the Thruxton SE would certainly be on our short list.

Gallery: 2010 Triumph Thruxton SE

[Source: Triumph via Hell for Leather]

Triumph releases 2010 Thruxton SE, we like what we see originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Eyes on the Road: Recon Instruments show off heads-up goggles

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 07:59:00 EST

Filed under: Technology, Motorcycle

Keeping your eyes on the road is of the utmost importance no matter what kind of vehicle you are piloting. To that end, automakers all over the world have experimented with heads-up displays that show such vital information as your speed and navigation directions right on the windshield in front of the driver.

Now, a company called Recon Instruments is extending similar system to the two-wheeled world with a new technology that flashes the same kind of information right on a pair of goggles. The goggles were originally designed for ski, snowboard and snowmobile applications, but Recon envisions its technology being used in all kinds of sports, from mountain biking and motorcycle touring to kite surfing and scuba diving.

Recon expects to begin shipping its goggles in the Fall of 2010 for between $350 and $450 and is now accepting preorders.

[Source: Recon Instruments via Motorbiker.org]

Eyes on the Road: Recon Instruments show off heads-up goggles originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Suzuki GSX-R self-assembles, can AI be far behind?

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 19:01:00 EST

Filed under: Videos, Suzuki, Motorcycle

Self-assembling Suzuki GSX-R - Click above to watch the video after the break

Fancy yourself mechanically inclined? Ever want to try your hand at building your own motorcycle? While some of us have rebuilt our fair share of cars over the years, we've never gone and tried the ground-up thing ourselves on a two-wheeled machine, and after watching the video embedded after the break, we think we'd rather be out riding.

A heck of a lot of work obviously went into producing this clip, which we're told was completed by a father and son team (that'd be Noah and Noah's Dad, we presume) in about 30 hours. Using a bunch of creativity and the tried-and-true stop/motion technique, the two were able to make it appear as if the Suzuki GSX-R assembles itself. Not only is it nice work, we particularly appreciate the soundtrack nod to Peter Gabriel's Sledgehammer music video, itself another stop/motion classic.

[Source: YouTube via Hell For Leather]

Continue reading VIDEO: Suzuki GSX-R self-assembles, can AI be far behind?

VIDEO: Suzuki GSX-R self-assembles, can AI be far behind? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Thermahelm motorcycle helmet is swell. Err... not swell

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 16:55:00 EST

Filed under: Safety, Technology, Motorcycle

Thermahelm helmet animation - Click above to watch the video after the break

We're sure this comes as a shock to nobody, but here we go anyway: brain swelling is bad. Very bad. That thick, hard skull surrounding your brain is great at providing a good deal of protection, but when things go awry in a big way, there isn't much room in there to let your brain expand.

Cooling the brain in some manner is apparently a good way to reduce swelling, and a company from the U.K. called Thermahelm has worked up a new motorcycle helmet that incorporates a layer ammonium nitrate and water that instantly mixes in the event of a crash. The chemical reaction will maintain a 37-degree brain temperature, which is said to stave off oxygen loss to the brain.

According to Thermahelm, its technology will add roughly $250 to the cost of a helmet, and the company is currently working on a retrofit kit that will allow riders to install the system in their own helmets. Click past the break to watch a nifty video animating the technology.

[Source: Thermahelm]

Continue reading VIDEO: Thermahelm motorcycle helmet is swell. Err... not swell

VIDEO: Thermahelm motorcycle helmet is swell. Err... not swell originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Last Will and Testimony: Brimstone Quadracycle is a DeathwishMobile with a Bullet

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 19:29:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Motorcycle, Specialty

Brimstone Quadracycle - Click above for high-res image gallery

Power-to-weight ratio - that metric might be the most meaningful performance measurement to consider when judging exactly what piece of machinery you should or shouldn't strap yourself into/onto. If you're the type that wants to leave this world with a giant smile on your face and bugs in your teeth, allow us to introduce you to the Brimstone Quadracycle.

Ostensibly a mash-up between a four-wheeled quad, a motorcycle and a drag car, what we have here is the closest thing you can get to a V8 engine strapped to a Power Wheels. Seriously, this is like a real-life childhood fantasy wrought in metal... almost brings a tear to the eye, doesn't it? It's absolutely insane. And yes, off course we'd gladly take it for a spin.

Brimstone is reportedly willing to build you one with as much as 750 horsepower from a 455 cubic inch aluminum Dart V8. Performance figures? How 'bout zero to sixty in 2.8 seconds? Or, better yet, zero to 120 in six seconds flat. It's even fuel efficient, returning up to 30 mpg, and it can be equipped with a hitch to tow a small boat. They're taking orders now, but you'll have to claim a spot behind us. Thanks for the tip, Kyle S!

Gallery: Brimstone Quadracycle

[Source: Brimstone Cycles]

Last Will and Testimony: Brimstone Quadracycle is a DeathwishMobile with a Bullet originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Salvation! Buell sportbikes reborn as Erik Buell Racing

Noah Joseph — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 10:33:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Motorcycle

Buell 1125R - Click above for high-res image gallery

Knee-draggers take heart: following the disappointing news that Harley-Davidson has killed the Buell brand, comes the announcement of its rebirth. Don't go looking for any new street bikes, though; the Buell name will carry on strictly through racing.

According to the announcement, company founder and chairman Erik Buell will leave the Motor Company to head up the newly formed Erik Buell Racing. This spin-off will be supported by HDMC and based at the Buell factory in East Troy, Wisconsin. The racing outfit will likely retain part of the workforce that, until last week, was responsible for assembling the roadgoing sportbikes. Rather than building bikes for public consumption, however, the team at Erik Buell Racing will supply the Buell 1125R to racing teams for as long as the bike complies with current competition regs.

So, while existing Buell retailers will sell off the remaining stock of street bikes, the name will live on (for a while, at least) on the racing circuit. Check out the fresh mega gallery of 1125R images (on and off the track) and the details in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Buell 1125R

[Source: Harley-Davidson]

Continue reading Salvation! Buell sportbikes reborn as Erik Buell Racing

Salvation! Buell sportbikes reborn as Erik Buell Racing originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 22 Nov 2009 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Valentino Rossi samples the BMW M3 GTS, drives away in M3 sedan

Noah Joseph — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:55:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Coupe, Performance, BMW, Motorcycle

Valentino Rossi drives the BMW M3 GTS - Click above for high-res image gallery

After securing his record ninth MotoGP title, there's little doubt that Valentino Rossi is the fastest man on two wheels. And BMW has acknowledged the Italian rider's speed by awarding him a brand-spankin'-new M3 sedan.

The German automaker is a sponsor of the motorbike racing series, providing organizers with safety cars and other vehicles, and even using it to debut the new X6 M crossover earlier this year. And every year BMW gifts a car to the rider who proved the fastest in qualifying over the course of the season. Rossi's won the "M Award" five times now, but before he drove off in his new V8 sports sedan, BMW gave him a rare opportunity to sample the new hardcore M3 GTS.

So what did the fastest man on two wheels think of the fastest Bimmer on four? Quite a lot, apparently, as the multiple world champion said he wants to be first on the list when the M3 GTS goes on sale next year. That's quite a glowing endorsement, and all it cost them was a test drive. Click on the thumbnails below for a high-res image gallery.

Gallery: Valentino Rossi drives the BMW M3 GTS

[Source: BMW M Division]

Valentino Rossi samples the BMW M3 GTS, drives away in M3 sedan originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final Buell motorcycle assembled in Wisconsin

Noah Joseph — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:31:00 EST

Filed under: Plants/Manufacturing, Motorcycle

As far as motorcycle manufacturers go, Buell lived a relatively short life. Founded by a former Harley-Davidson engineer in 1993, the sportbike company was acquired by HDMC in 2003. But hard times falling on businesses large and small forced Harley to announce Buell's closure. And now the last Buell has been pushed off the assembly line and into the great wild yonder.

After 136,923 motorcycles built over the course of 26 years of production, the final model produced was the black Lightning XB12Scg pictured above. On December 18, the plant in Troy, Wisconsin, will officially close down, while the existing network of dealers continue to sell off the remaining stock.

Farewell, Buell. We hardly knew ye.

[Source: Motorcycle News]

Final Buell motorcycle assembled in Wisconsin originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Orange Crush: KTM to bring entire line of streetbikes to U.S.

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle

2010 KTM 690 Duke R - Click above for high-res image gallery

We'll be honest and say right off the bat that we have a soft spot for KTM. This particular blogger's first real two-wheeler was an old KTM 125 two-stroke that ate piston rings for breakfast, lunch and dinner... but boy was it fast! More recently, the traditionally off-road-focused Austrian marque has made a renewed plans to enter the U.S. market with an exciting line of streetbikes, and that's reportedly set to continue in full force for 2010.

According to the boys at Hell For Leather, KTM plans to bring its entire line of motorcycles Stateside, and that includes the 990 Adventure R, Super Duke R, SMT and SMR along with the RC8 R superbike (finally!) and the full line of single-cylinder 690s. Speaking of which, also new for 2010 is the 2010 690 Duke R that gets firmer suspenders, a bespoke paint scheme and carbon fiber fender and, most importantly, an enlarged engine with 70 horsepower and 51 lb-ft of torque. Hit the jump for a detailed PDF file that contains KTM's full line.

Gallery: 2010 KTM 690 Duke R

[Source: Hell For Leather]

Continue reading Orange Crush: KTM to bring entire line of streetbikes to U.S.

Orange Crush: KTM to bring entire line of streetbikes to U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Australia to wage crushing war on 'monkey bikes'

Chris Shunk — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 08:59:00 EST

Filed under: Government/Legal, Australia, Motorcycle

Attention Australian mini bike riders: law enforcement is going all "iron fist" on your preferred method of transportation. The mini bikes, often referred to locally as "monkey bikes" are a big problem in South Australia, reportedly causing several deaths and numerous injuries. The bikes, which can reach speeds of 70 km/h (42 mph), are already outlawed, but now Drive is reporting that Attorney-General Michael Atkinson is amending the law to give law enforcement the authority to crush the bikes and charge fines of up to $5,000 AUD. That's a lot of coin to ride a bike that makes you look like a total dork.

Atkinson says the bikes look harmless, but "they are actually dangerous for riders, pedestrians, other vehicles on the road and other people using parks and open spaces." The primate bikes, which we don't believe are actually driven by monkeys (koalas, perhaps?), do not comply with Australian vehicle safety standards or design rules.

We've actually tried these mini bikes before, and while they're a lot of fun, we can see why they are dangerous. They're hard for other motorists to see, and we've noticed that a lot of parents letting their 10-15 year-old children ride them around the suburbs. Probably not a good idea.

[Source: Drive | Image: Monkeybike UK]

REPORT: Australia to wage crushing war on 'monkey bikes' originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW defies logic with six-cylinder Concept 6 motorcycle

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:57:00 EST

Filed under: BMW, Motorcycle

BMW Concept 6 - Click above for high-res image gallery

BMW is known the world over for its excellent brand of inline-six cylinder powerplants. In most cases, those supremely smooth and powerful engines power the German company's cars and trucks. Apparently, that won't always be the case, though, as BMW has just revealed its new Concept 6 motorcycle at the EICMA Show in Milan.

As the name implies, the Concept 6 boasts an engine with six cylinders, and the best news is that the mill is destined for a new production model in the near future. Expect to see a replacement for the long-running LT series of touring bikes, bringing BMW more in line with the standard-setting Goldwing from Honda.

Looking at the actual concept itself, the chassis appears to be heavily based on the current production K-Series unit, and the powerplant is tilted at the same 55-degree angle as the current four-cylinder. Bodywork is suitable for concept duty, with a futuristic take on the old-school Cafe Racer look.

Power? BMW's being a bit coy at the moment, suggesting that it makes as much horsepower as the current 1.3-liter four (over 150, to be sure) and as much torque as any other motorcycle engine in production with a stout 96 lb-ft at 2,000 RPM. With a redline of nearly 9,000... you can imagine that there's plenty of power on tap. Check out our high-res photo gallery below and hit the jump for a video and the press release.

Gallery: BMW Concept 6

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW defies logic with six-cylinder Concept 6 motorcycle

BMW defies logic with six-cylinder Concept 6 motorcycle originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ducati updates Hypermotard 1100, adds new EVO and SP models

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 10:31:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle

2010 Ducati Hypermotard 1100 EVO - Click above for high-res image gallery

Following the release of the $9,995 Hypermotard 796, it was pretty obvious that Ducati would have some updating to do on its bigger 1100cc brother. After all, with a power-to-weight ratio within spitting distance, it seemed tough to justify the price increase for the bigger model. Not surprisingly, then, Ducati has just released all the details on the 2010 Hypermotard 1100, and it's got all the right boxes checked: 15 pounds lighter, five more horsepower and an $11,995 starting price.

The new base 1100 is now called the EVO, and it weighs 379 pounds dry and puts out 95 horsepower and 76 lb-ft of torque. New vacuum-cast engine cases join a magnesium alternator cover, a superbike-spec flywheel from the 848 and rare-earth magnets in the generator assembly help the latest Desmodue engine drop 11.5 pounds. Like the smaller 796, the new EVO eschews the previously-forged chassis bits for lighter pieces without sacrificing performance.

Also new for 2010 is an uprated 1100 EVO SP model for $14,995 that has higher ground clearance, upgraded suspension bits, Brembo Monobloc brake calipers, Marchesini wheels and a few external carbon fiber components. Want to know more? All the sordid details can be found in the press release after the break and we've added a high-res image gallery for your viewing pleasure below.

Gallery: 2010 Ducati Hypermotard 1100 EVO and SP

[Source: Ducati]

Continue reading Ducati updates Hypermotard 1100, adds new EVO and SP models

Ducati updates Hypermotard 1100, adds new EVO and SP models originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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CR&S DUU Concept is a mototerminator for the rest of us

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 19:40:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Misc. Auto Shows, Motorcycle

CR&S DUU Concept-- Click above for high-res image gallery

Those of you who had the stomach to sit through Terminator Salvation with your eyes open will remember the mototerminators that launched themselves from the legs of the giant collectors. Those were actually based on Ducatis, but if you fancied the look of them, then Italian bike builder CR&S has something pretty close.

Called the DUU Concept, the naked ride is a combination of "a sporty European rolling chassis powered by a muscular American big-twin." The engine is a 1.9-liter (117 cu. in.) X-Wedge supplied by S&S. Wrapped around that powerplant is a chassis that CR&S says can be tailored by the customer - although they don't indicate how beyond presenting the choice of single or two-seater versions.

But since each DUU will be made by hand, one-at-a-time, we imagine they'll be happy to do anything your wallet will allow. The DUU Concept is being unveiled November 10 at the Milan International Bike Show. CR&S said it has plans to build them from next year, at €20,000 ($30,000 U.S.) apiece. Check it out in the gallery of high-res images below.

Gallery: CR&S DUU Concept

[Source: CR&S Motorcycles]

CR&S DUU Concept is a mototerminator for the rest of us originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ducati finally unveils 2010 Multistrada 1200 at EICMA

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 17:20:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle

2010 Ducati Multistrada 1200 - Click above for high-res image gallery

After months of rumors, grainy spy shots and leaked information, Ducati has finally pulled the wraps off its 2010 Multistrada 1200. As with the original MTS, Ducati wanted to create a machine with sportbike-level performance that could be attained on nearly any kind of surface terrain. This time, though, the Italian manufacturer started with its latest liquid-cooled Testastretta powerplant as used in the top-level 1198 superbike, athough altered with revised valve overlap for smoother power delivery and a 15-percent improvement in fuel consumption and emissions.

Ducati says the new Multistrada 1200 is "four bikes in one," and has thus bestowed its new motorcycle with four distinct Riding Modes that alter power and traction control levels: Sport, Touring, Urban and Enduro. Sport mode offers the full 150-horsepower experience with a low amount of traction control and Touring mode is intended for everyday riding. Urban and Enduro modes tone things down several notches to 100 horsepower - and opting for the latter also raises the suspension and sets the traction control to its least-active setting.

Uplevel S models get a new Ducati Electronic Suspension setup that can be tailored to adjust spring pre-load along with rebound and compression damping with options for rider only, rider with luggage, rider and passenger or rider and passenger with luggage. Ducati says that the Multistrada 1200's 417-pound dry weight is the lowest in its class, though a full 5.3-gallon load of fuel (enough for 186 miles between fill-ups) would certainly raise that a bit. Pricing starts at $14,995 before any options are added. Hit the jump for the rest of the details and check out our high-res image gallery below.

Gallery: 2010 Ducati Multistrada 1200

[Source: Ducati]

Continue reading Ducati finally unveils 2010 Multistrada 1200 at EICMA

Ducati finally unveils 2010 Multistrada 1200 at EICMA originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Officially Official: MV Agusta launches 2010 F4 superbike

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 13:28:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle

2010 MV Agusta F4 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Here it is. Motorcycle fans the world over have been waiting for the release of the 2010 F4 superbike ever since the new Brutale was unveiled last month, but MV Agusta somehow managed to keep a lid mostly on its range-topper until its official unveiling, which is taking place... oh, right about now. In any case, the Italian manufacturer starts its introduction of the new F4 by asking a question: Can perfection be improved upon?

It's always a dicey proposition to make sweeping changes to a highly-regarded superbike - just ask Ducati, which found that truth out the hard way with the 2003 999 - so it's not particularly surprising that the new bike is instantly recognizable as an F4, though the entire engine and chassis have been completely redesigned for more performance. Overall weight is down by 22 pounds, and the radial-valve, inline-four engine puts out 186 horsepower, a 12-horse gain over the 2009 model.

A Marelli 7BM ECU controls (among other things) the eight fuel injectors, variable-length intake manifolds and traction control, and it also offers multiple Sport and Rain engine control maps. Spent exhaust gases exit via the four expected underseat outlets, but those "organ pipes" are now squared-off instead of round. Suspension bits include a fully adjustable inverted 50mm Marzocchi up front and a remote reservoir rear shock from Sachs. Naturally, Brembo monobloc calipers clamp down on dual 320mm front discs, which are joined by a single Nissan four-piston caliper and 220mm disc out back.

All in all, this appears to be a pretty thorough redesign that will simultaneously offer diehard MV fans something to drool over while being competitive in the hotly-contested superbike marketplace. Want to know more? Click past the break for the full press release and technical specifications and see our high-res image gallery below.

Gallery: 2010 MV Agusta F4

[Source: MV Agusta]

Continue reading Officially Official: MV Agusta launches 2010 F4 superbike

Officially Official: MV Agusta launches 2010 F4 superbike originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW updates 2010 R 1200 RT with DOHC engine, revised fairing and ESA II

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 08:29:00 EST

Filed under: BMW, Motorcycle

2010 BMW R 1200 RT - Click above for high-res image gallery

These days, BMW's most popular line of motorcycles all over the world are its adventurous GS machines, but the Bavarian manufacturer is also well known for its excellent long-distance touring mounts powered by the traditional boxer engine. BMW looks to uphold that reputation with a thorough update to its 2010 R 1200 RT, and it joins its GS sibling in getting new heads with dual-overhead cams.

Though the maximum power output of 110 horses is carried over from the 2009 model, BMW says that torque is boosted a few lb-ft to 88 and that both the horsepower and torque curves are greatly improved. A revised fairing joins a slightly enlarged windscreen that is reportedly more transparent than before as the notable exterior modifications.

The final major updates are made to the suspension and brakes, including the latest versions of BMW's Integral ABS brakes and Electronic Suspension Adjustment. Nine different combinations are available to the rider that adjust front and rear damping along with spring pretension and spring rate up front. Want all the details? Click past the break for the official press release.

Gallery: 2010 BMW R 1200 RT

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW updates 2010 R 1200 RT with DOHC engine, revised fairing and ESA II

BMW updates 2010 R 1200 RT with DOHC engine, revised fairing and ESA II originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Triumph and TAG Heuer honor Steve McQueen with special Bonneville

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 12:22:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle, Celebrities

Triumph Bonneville Heuer - Click above for high-res image gallery

Triumph and TAG Heuer have joined forces to create a one-of-a-kind Bonneville Heuer motorcycle. Inspired by Steve McQueen and the Porsche 917 K that the famous actor, racer and motorcycle rider piloted in the classic film Le Mans, the Bonneville Heuer is painted up in the classic Gulf Oil blue and orange scheme and will be used for promotional purposes.

McQueen famously wore a Heuer Monaco watch in the aforementioned silver screen race drama and was a renowned Triumph enthusiast. Says Neil Morley, Triumph's Head of Brand Communications:

We are delighted to play our part in this exciting project. The Triumph Bonneville and TAG Heuer Monaco are both timeless masterpieces, celebrating their respective 50th and 40th anniversaries this year. We also both have a natural connection with Steve McQueen, who famously wore a Monaco watch in the film Le Mans and was renowned for his love of our bikes, making this a very natural collaboration.

As much as we'd like to tell you this will be an optional color choice for the production Bonneville, that's not currently the case. If you like it as much as we do, perhaps a phone call to your local Triumph dealer is in order.

Gallery: Triumph Bonneville Heuer

[Source: Triumph]

Continue reading Triumph and TAG Heuer honor Steve McQueen with special Bonneville

Triumph and TAG Heuer honor Steve McQueen with special Bonneville originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 07 Nov 2009 12:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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