Virtual Content Has No Border

Author: yousufparvez

Art Meets Machinery: The Creative Brilliance of Krom Works’ Harley Sportster

Andika Pratama, a talented custom motorcycle builder from Indonesia, recently gained international recognition for his exquisite creation—a Harley Sportster custom commissioned by the M.A.D. Gallery in Geneva, Switzerland. The M.A.D. Gallery, affiliated with the innovative watchmaking company MB&F, sought Andika’s expertise to bring an artistic and neo-futuristic touch to the world of custom motorcycles.

Hailing from South Jakarta, Andika is the mastermind behind Krom Works, a three-person operation known for its imaginative and meticulously crafted machines. The collaboration with the Swiss gallery added a new layer to Andika’s already impressive portfolio, showcasing his ability to seamlessly blend artistry with mechanical prowess.

The project began with a call from the M.A.D. Gallery, known for its carefully curated collection embodying the intersection of art and machinery. For Andika, this presented an opportunity to showcase his signature style, characterized by organic forms crafted from manipulated metal, resulting in imaginative machines that bridge the gap between art and functionality.

Choosing a Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 as the base, Andika retained the V-twin motor and reimagined the rest. The bespoke frame, a standout feature of the build, was meticulously crafted from stainless steel plates, creating a unique design that gracefully traverses the engine and between the split tanks, enhanced by brass cladding for contrast.

Andika emphasizes the importance of a strong basic concept in custom bike building, evident in the meticulously designed line that connects the front to the back of the motorcycle. The overall aesthetic balances classic and futuristic elements, showcasing Andika’s keen eye for detail.

Customization extends to the front suspension, featuring a girder-style arrangement crafted from handmade aluminum components. Hand-built handlebars, adorned with leather-wrapped grips and trimmed levers, add to the motorcycle’s unique character. Brass detailing, including a concave grill over the recessed headlight and fastener caps on pivot points, enhances the overall design.

The rear of the motorcycle reveals more custom elements, including a braced aluminum swingarm with a unique linkage system. Brass accents continue, with a hand-built shock seamlessly integrated into the rear part of the frame. A tight rear fender, flared at the end, houses an integrated taillight behind a brass grill, mirroring the headlight design.

The wheels showcase Andika’s attention to detail, with 21F/18R spoked rims laced to mid-80s Honda CBX550F hubs. The inboard ventilated disc brakes, designed to resemble drum brakes, add a modern touch to the classic appearance. Firestone and Coker tires complete the wheel package.

November 27, 2023
The Future of Urban Riding: A Closer Look at Ryvid’s Electric Motorcycle

In the realm of new motorcycles, the Ryvid Anthem stands out as a noteworthy addition. This full-size electric motorcycle is not only more affordable than its electric counterparts but also boasts a greater range than typical e-bikes. Its design caters to ease of use, particularly for those transitioning from powered bicycles to motorcycles, making it a potential gateway for new riders.

Recently, Roadracing World took the Anthem for a spin through the streets of Long Beach, California, and the surrounding areas. The findings reveal a refined city motorcycle, well-suited for urban use with comfort, user-friendly features, and ample speed. The design incorporates practical elements for commuting, making it a viable option for daily riders.

The construction of the Anthem emphasizes simplicity and ease, with a folded-steel backbone frame that requires no welding. It is powered by a 72-volt, air-cooled brushless direct current motor, delivering 10 horsepower with peak performance reaching 20 horsepower and 53 lbs.-ft. of torque. The motor connects to the rear wheel through a carbon belt with a 4.7:1 ratio.

The Anthem is equipped with a 4.3 kWh lithium-ion battery that holds 84 volts when fully charged. Notably, the battery is designed for quick and easy removal. Unlatching two locks and disconnecting three cables allow the battery to be rotated off its support pins and wheeled away using a handle. This feature facilitates convenient recharging and transportation.

The motorcycle has a reported maximum speed of 75 miles per hour and a range of up to 75 miles. It offers two power modes, Sport and Eco, with Sport mode allowing manual engagement of battery regeneration. In Eco mode, regeneration during slowing down happens automatically. The Anthem’s road-ready weight is 313 pounds, and it features an electrically adjustable seat, allowing height variation between 30 and 34 inches.

Braking is handled by a four-piston caliper at the front with a single 320mm disc and a twin-piston caliper at the rear gripping a 220mm disc. The suspension includes an inverted fork at the front, adjustable for rebound and compression damping, and a single shock at the rear with damping and preload adjustability.

The Anthem rides on cast aluminum five-spoke rims, fitted with Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tires. The wheelbase measures 52 inches, ground clearance is 7.5 inches, and the rake and trail are set at 26 degrees and 152mm, respectively.

November 27, 2023
Exclusive: Real Photos of the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Revealed!

Recently, we got a sneak peek at the upcoming Galaxy S24 Ultra through some fan-created images. However, there’s nothing like the real deal, and it seems someone on X (formerly Twitter) has managed to get their hands on the genuine Galaxy S24 Ultra and shared a few photos.

These pictures, courtesy of @DavidMa05368498, showcase the actual Galaxy S24 Ultra, not a fake model. It’s the flagship phone that Samsung plans to reveal in January. In the images, we see a flagship phone with a flat back panel and a completely flat screen – a pleasant surprise for S Pen users. Samsung seems to have ditched the curved edges, enhancing the overall user experience.

The Galaxy S24 Ultra marks an evolutionary step forward. Similar to the Galaxy S23 Ultra, this upcoming model features individual camera cutouts on the back panel and a square design. The metal frame of the Galaxy S24 Ultra has slightly rounded edges, while the top and bottom edges are flat. On the right edge, you’ll find the power button, volume key, and an antenna.

According to recent reports, Samsung plans to unveil the Galaxy S24 series on January 17 at an Unpacked event in San Hose, California. Samsung has been busy trademarking names not only for products arriving in a few months but also for those expected in almost two years, like the Galaxy S25 or the Galaxy Z Fold 7.

In addition to smartphones, Samsung has filed trademark applications for various product categories, including smart rings and AR glasses in recent months. GalaxyClub, our friends in the know, discovered several applications in different countries. One notable discovery is a trademark application confirming that the Galaxy S24 will be marketed as an AI Phone.

Earlier, SamMobile reported Samsung’s plans to focus on artificial intelligence (AI) with its next flagship. Samsung subsequently confirmed this by introducing the Galaxy AI experience, set to debut with the Galaxy S24 lineup and bring numerous AI features.

November 27, 2023
Master Card Breaks New Ground in China: A Cashless Revolution

In China, the Yuan has become one of the most popular currencies globally. Now, there’s exciting news as Master Card opens its doors to Chinese currency transactions. This wasn’t possible before, but after much effort, users can now utilize MasterCard within the world’s second-largest economy.

Master Card is a game-changer, enabling users to handle all types of financial activities in China. While India leads the world in digital transactions, with 46 percent of its population using digital means, Brazil follows closely behind. In 2022, Brazil completed around 30 million digital transactions, securing its spot as the second-highest in the world. China, ranking third, is steadily progressing towards a cashless society.

Currently, over 90.4 million people in China engage in various forms of online transactions. With more than 44.4 million online shopping platforms and outlets providing MasterCard payment options, it contributes to a significant 87 percent of the country’s total annual payments. Alibaba’s Ali Pay and Tencent’s WeChat digital wallet, the major players in this landscape, account for 91 percent of all online transactions in China.

MasterCard faced challenges entering this market, primarily because, under previous rules, Union Pay was mandatory for Yuan payments, and MasterCard could only be used for transactions in US dollars. After over three years of persistence, MasterCard has finally succeeded, gaining an advantage in the vast Chinese market.

The Chinese market’s enormity provides MasterCard with numerous opportunities. Instead of being limited to US dollars, MasterCard now facilitates payments and money transactions in the local currency, the Yuan. This breakthrough allows MasterCard to tap into and potentially dominate this vast market, signaling a significant step towards a cashless future in China.

November 25, 2023
Artificial Intelligence: A Mixed Bag of Hopes and Concerns

In the world of technology, one of the biggest surprises is artificial intelligence (AI). People have different opinions about it. Some want to improve this system, while others fear it might surpass humans. The future of AI remains uncertain.

Many people worry about the rise of AI, fearing it could take away jobs. To ensure that AI benefits everyone, it’s essential to keep it focused on human welfare. Developed countries are investing significant amounts in AI research. However, caution is needed to prevent the risks associated with uncontrolled AI development.

Those involved in creating AI software must be mindful of its safety. Technology organizations are being reminded of their ethical and legal responsibilities. The Western world, in particular, emphasizes these concerns in their research. Without proper control, AI, if left unchecked, could lead to unforeseen consequences.

AI is advancing rapidly, with programs like Google Bird providing opportunities for further evolution. However, there is a risk that AI could become commercially uncontrollable in the future. Scientist Yesha Sivan suggests that only about five percent of what the media portrays about AI misuse and potential is accurate. AI has capabilities beyond working with images or videos, and dedicated manpower is needed to control its impact.

Proper control is crucial to keeping AI on the right track. In the future, AI is expected to solve many significant tasks quickly. However, it’s essential for humans to remain in control of how AI operates. Striking the right balance will determine whether AI becomes a force for good or a source of concern.

November 25, 2023
AI and Deepfake: The Double-Edged Sword of Technological Advancement

In today’s fast-paced world, technology is evolving rapidly. One such innovation, deepfake technology, has transformed the way we perceive images and videos. Deepfake, powered by artificial intelligence (AI), can create convincing reproductions of various media, raising concerns about its potential misuse.

Deepfake operates through a sophisticated AI system, employing deep learning techniques, a subset of machine learning. Its roots trace back to the 19th century when attempts were made to manipulate images, but it has since evolved with technological advancements. Unfortunately, this progress has paved the way for the misuse of deepfake, causing notable individuals to become victims of fake content.

The technology’s core process involves data processing through neural networks on computers. Initially used for transforming innocent pictures into unpleasant ones, deepfake’s capabilities have now reached new heights. The process begins by selecting an original image and its corresponding data, which is then seamlessly integrated into a fake picture.

Two AI systems collaborate in this intricate process. One system continuously inputs data, while the other conducts experiments until achieving a flawless outcome. This meticulous analysis allows the replication of a person’s facial features, speech patterns, and overall characteristics, enabling a nearly indistinguishable imitation.

Since 2014, deepfake has been refined to the point where it can create convincing content with remarkable precision. Unfortunately, the dark side of this technology has emerged, with notable personalities, including actors and actresses from Bollywood and Hollywood, falling victim to deepfake misuse.

These individuals have been targeted with fake advertisements, where their image or video data undergoes realistic processing. The intent behind these acts ranges from misrepresentation and defamation to outright deception. As deepfake technology advances, so does the potential for its misuse, posing ethical and societal challenges.

As we navigate the evolving landscape of technology, it is crucial to remain vigilant about the responsible use of AI and deepfake applications. Understanding the implications of such innovations empowers us to address the ethical concerns surrounding their misuse and work towards creating a secure digital environment for all.

November 25, 2023
Quantum Physics: Why Atoms and Waves Behave Strangely

Quantum physics might sound strange, but it’s not as weird as you think. At the smallest level of atoms and electrons, quantum physics explains how tiny things behave. We use it in many everyday things like solar panels, LED lights, mobile phones, and MRI scanners in hospitals.

In the quantum world, objects can be in two places at once, move through barriers, and have a connection no matter how far apart they are. These properties seem weird compared to what we know about everyday objects like tennis balls. But if you think of atoms and electrons as waves instead of tiny balls, it becomes less surprising.

Let’s explore three key quantum phenomena that water waves can also do, and one thing that makes the quantum world different.

Heisenberg’s Uncertainty Principle
– Imagine throwing a tennis ball, and you can track its position and velocity. But if the ball is as small as an atom, you can’t track it precisely. This is Heisenberg’s Uncertainty Principle.
– Waves, like water waves, also have limitations. You can’t know their position and wavelength with 100% precision. Waves always cover a range of positions and consist of a range of wavelengths.

Superposition and Entanglement
– Quantum objects can be in two places at once in a superposition of states. Waves can also be in two places simultaneously, like when a wave splits and flows through two channels.
– Entanglement is when two waves are linked, and their properties depend on each other. This is similar to making waves in oil and vinegar, where their wavelengths are connected.

Tunneling
– Quantum objects can pass through barriers with some probability, known as tunneling. This is like throwing an atom at a wall and finding it on the other side.
– Water waves can also tunnel through a barrier in your bathtub. If a wave hits a wall at a glancing angle, it can bounce back or even magically reappear on the other side if the wall is thin enough.

November 25, 2023
KTM’s Latest 2024 890 SMT: A Supermoto Tourer for the Modern Rider

KTM is bringing back the SMT line with the 2024 KTM 890 SMT. It’s a mix of supermoto playfulness and sport-tourer practicality, marking the return of this line to the U.S. after over a decade. Powering the 2024 KTM 890 SMT is an 889cc LC8c parallel-twin engine with DOHC and dual balancer shafts, similar to the one in the KTM 890 Adventure R but with a 20% increase in rotating mass compared to the KTM 790 platform.

KTM positions this bike as a purposeful model bridging the gap between its adventure and street product ranges. The engine includes features like 46 mm dual Dell’Orto throttle bodies, throttle-by-wire, a 6-speed gearbox, and a PASC slip/assist clutch.

Riders can choose from three standard ride modes—Sport, Street, and Rain—with an optional Track setting available. The Track setting allows riders to customize throttle modes and traction control across 10 levels. The bike also incorporates cornering Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC), and there’s a Demo Mode for trying out electronic rider aids for the first 1,500 km.

In terms of design, the 4.2-gallon tank is slimmed down for the KTM 890 SMT, designed to provide a wide contact patch while allowing free and flowing movement. The bike features a single-piece Supermoto-shaped seat at 33.8 inches, and riders can choose from six handlebar positions within a 1.2-inch range. The aerodynamic windscreen sits just above the double fender with a low splash guard on the fork legs.

The front suspension consists of a 43mm inverted WP Apex open-cartridge fork, and both front and rear suspension are fully adjustable with 7.1 inches of travel. The bike rides on 17-inch wheels equipped with Michelin PowerGP tires. Braking features a 4-piston caliper on the 320mm front disc and a 2-piston caliper on the 260mm rear disc. Standard cornering ABS with Supermoto mode ensures efficient braking.

The bike comes with a 5-inch multifunctional TFT display made from scratch- and glare-resistant optically bonded mineral glass. It includes a USB connector, redesigned intuitive graphics, and Turn-by-Turn+ navigation with the KTMConnect app.

Optional features include heated grips, Motor Slip Regulation for enhanced control in low grip situations and fast downshifts, Quickshifter+, and cruise control. The 2024 KTM 890 SMT is expected to hit the market in December, with pricing yet to be announced.

November 24, 2023
Nokia Feature Phones Maintain Global Leadership

In surprising news, HMD Global continues to make its mark in the mobile phone industry. According to IDC’s latest report, HMD Global, the company responsible for Nokia phones, has secured the top position in feature phone shipments during Q3 2023. This accomplishment highlights the enduring popularity of Nokia feature phones, with HMD Global commanding 30.7 percent of the global market. The company has seen a remarkable 22.4 percent increase in volume compared to the previous quarter.

HMD Global attributes its success to four key factors. First and foremost is the integration of Unified Payments Interface (UPI), enhancing the functionality of Nokia feature phones and enabling secure digital transactions. This move aligns with the growing trend towards digital payment solutions.

Additionally, HMD Global emphasizes the successful updates made to various Nokia feature phone models. These updates include new designs, vibrant colors, and larger battery capacities, catering to consumer preferences for extended and reliable user experiences. The company’s commitment to adapting to user needs has played a pivotal role in maintaining Nokia’s relevance.

While smartphones dominate discussions in the tech world, the continued success of Nokia feature phones proves their enduring significance. These devices offer a simpler, more affordable option for users who prioritize basic communication features without the complexities of smartphones. HMD Global’s achievements in the feature phone segment provide hope for the sustained success and relevance of the Nokia brand.

Despite the ever-evolving tech landscape, HMD Global’s success with Nokia feature phones hints at the brand’s potential longevity. The company’s strategic approach, evident in the UPI integration and thoughtful updates, positions Nokia as a viable option for users well into the future. The current contract between HMD Global and Nokia Corporation is set to conclude in 2026, leaving room for continued innovation and growth.

November 24, 2023
Easy Recipe: Garlic Potato Ring Chips for Snacking Delight

We all love chips, and this easy recipe introduces a delightful twist to the classic potato chip. With the flavors of garlic and a unique ring shape, these Garlic Potato Ring Chips make for a tasty treat that both kids and adults will enjoy.

Ingredients
1. Chilliflex – 1 tbsp
2. Crushed garlic – 1 tbsp
3. Semolina – half cup
4. Potato – 1 (large)
5. Butter – 3 tbsp
6. Water – 1 cup
7. Salt – 1 tsp
8. Cornflower – 1 tbsp
9. Coriander leaves – 2 tbsp
10. Beetroot – 1 tsp
11. Chilli powder – 1 tsp
12. Chaat masala – half teaspoon
13. Soybean oil – as needed
14. Tomato or chili sauce

Procedure
1. Start by grating the potato finely and crushing the garlic.
2. Blend the semolina to a smooth texture.
3. Heat a pan and add three spoons of butter. Once melted, lightly fry crushed garlic.
4. Stir continuously while adding a cup of water, chilli flakes, and salt.
5. Gradually mix the blended semolina into the mixture.
6. Add the grated potatoes and mix well. Turn off the heat when the mixture separates from the pan.
7. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then knead it well with your hands.
8. Mix in cornflower and chopped coriander leaves to form a smooth dough.
9. Apply oil to a balloon and pidi, then cut the dough into ring shapes using a cutter or glass.
10. Heat oil in a wok and fry the rings until they turn red.
11. Once fried, mix chilli flakes or chilli powder with half a teaspoon of chaat masala and gently rub the mixture on the chips.
12. Your Garlic Potato Ring Chips are ready to be served with tomato or chili sauce.

With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe allows you to create a flavorful and unique snack. Whether enjoyed during an evening get-together or as a quick treat, these Garlic Potato Ring Chips are sure to be a hit with everyone. Try making them at home for a delightful snacking experience.

November 24, 2023