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Category: motorcycle

BMW R 1250 RT: The Perfect Sport-Tourer Bike

I enjoy testing motorcycles, but traveling to swap test bikes can be a hassle. The 2023 BMW R 1250 RT made my recent 900-mile roundtrip from Utah to California a breeze, and it’s a bike I’d gladly ride 500 miles a day in any season.

The BMW R 1250 RT is a sport-touring bike that combines sport performance and comfort. It’s equipped with a powerful 1,254cc engine, offering 136 hp and 105 lb-ft of torque. The ShiftCam technology provides power on demand, making it easy to adapt to different riding conditions.

The bike has various riding modes, including Road, Rain, and Eco. The Dynamic mode enhances throttle response, perfect for twisty roads. The bike’s braking system and suspension keep it stable during rapid speed changes.

The R 1250 RT comes with a 10.25-inch color TFT panel that offers all the necessary information and connectivity features. The LED lighting, self-canceling turn signals, and adaptive headlight provide excellent visibility.

The semi-active suspension adjusts in real-time to maintain stability during acceleration and braking. The bike’s cruise control is perfect for maintaining a set speed, and the Adaptive Cruise Control adjusts speed based on vehicles in front.

The R 1250 RT is not just a performance machine; it’s also a comfortable touring bike. It’s designed to accommodate a passenger and gear, and the bike’s features like electric windscreen and a comfortable seat make it ideal for long journeys.

The bike’s wind protection is impressive, and it even comes with a top case accessory for added support. The BMW R 1250 RT is a testament to the brand’s evolution from a solid touring machine to an exciting sport-tourer. The 2023 BMW R 1250 RT offers a blend of sporty performance and touring comfort. Whether riding solo or with a passenger, this motorcycle is a highly capable and enjoyable choice for long-distance trips.

October 25, 2023
Honda’s Rebel 1100: A Closer Look at the 2024 Models

In 2024, Honda is bringing back the Rebel 1100 cruiser in two different forms. This year, they’re not making any major mechanical changes to the bikes, but they are giving them fresh and modern colors for the new year. While the release is focused on the European market, it’s likely that these popular models will make a return to the US line in the near future.

The Rebel 1100, or the CMX1100, keeps its beloved neo-bobber styling. It has a stripped-down appearance that conceals its true power and capabilities. Under its modest exterior, there’s an impressive 1,084cc parallel-twin-cylinder engine with 80 horsepower. This engine is designed to provide strong torque in the lower and midrange, making the bike exciting to ride. Riders have found it to be a thrilling experience, and it’s one of the reasons for the bike’s popularity.

The Rebel 1100 is a success not just in the US but also across the pond. In fact, it’s the second-best seller in the European custom bike segment, following only its smaller counterpart, the Rebel 500.

This bike comes with mid-mount controls, throttle-by-wire technology, easy handling, adjustable engine power, and traction control. Additionally, there’s an option for a DCT transmission. All of these features make the Rebel 1100 an excellent value for riders. However, the release didn’t include any pricing information, so we’ll have to wait for that.

For 2024, the primary update for the CMX1100 Rebel is the introduction of two new contemporary color options: Glint Wave Blue Metallic and Iridium Gray Metallic.

The CMX1100T Rebel, which is the touring version of the bike introduced last year, is designed for long-distance adventures. It features a broad aerodynamic half fairing and hard saddlebags. This year, it gets a fresh look with a Gunmetal Black Metallic color scheme and a pair of new bronze wheels. Both of these Rebel models are expected to arrive in European dealerships early in 2024. American Honda is also likely to make announcements about returning models later in the year.

October 23, 2023
2024 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure Bike: Lighter and More Powerful Advancement

BMW Motorrad has unveiled its latest adventure bike, the 2024 BMW R 1300 GS, representing a significant step forward in the world of adventure motorcycles. This new model serves as the successor to the previous R 1250 GS and R 1250 GS Adventure, emphasizing weight reduction and enhanced performance while staying true to the iconic GS legacy.

The heart of the R 1300 GS is the renowned BMW Motorrad boxer twin engine, which has been in production for over a century. With a larger capacity and more aggressive bore/stroke measurements (106.5mm x 73mm), this 1,300cc engine remains air/oil/water-cooled and features four-valve cylinder heads, along with dual-overhead camshafts. Notably, it retains BMW’s ShiftCam variable valve timing technology, which was first introduced in the 2019 BMW R1250GS Adventure.

This potent engine now boasts a 13.3:1 compression ratio, an increase of 0.8 from its predecessor. It runs on premium 91-octane fuel from a 5.0-gallon aluminum fuel tank. Power is efficiently transferred to a road-friendly 17-inch rear spoked wheel via a six-speed gearbox, which is now positioned under the engine. A hydraulic oil-bathed multiplate clutch and reliable Cardan-style shaft final drive complete the powertrain. BMW states that the boxer twin delivers 145 horsepower at 7,750 rpm and 109.9 lb.-ft. of torque at 6,500 rpm, making it the most powerful boxer twin in terms of horsepower.

Jochen Beck, the project manager of the BMW R 1300 GS, expressed the team’s commitment to bucking the trend of larger bikes, focusing instead on weight and dimension reduction. The result is a more compact and lean GS, achieved through innovative design and manufacturing methods. The engine serves as a load-bearing component within a steel main frame, with a lighter aluminum subframe taking the place of a heavier steel counterpart.

The R 1300 GS features BMW’s effective Telelever front suspension, providing a balance between steering and damping functions for optimal performance. It comes with a 19-inch front wheel, chosen over larger 21-inch wheels featured on other adventure motorcycles. The rear suspension incorporates a single-sided aluminum swingarm and BMW’s trusted paralever, seamlessly combining suspension and final drive responsibilities. Suspension travel remains consistent at 7.5 inches in the front and 7.9 inches in the rear. The wheelbase has been extended by 0.16 inches to 59.76 inches.

For riders seeking enhanced suspension, the optional Dynamic Suspension Adjustment, an upgrade from the previous Dynamic Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA), now includes spring preload adjustment and variable semi-active damping. This system is managed through various rider-selectable ride modes, vehicle dynamics, and rider control input. It also allows for changes in vehicle height based on terrain and riding conditions.

The 2024 R 1300 GS introduces four distinct riding modes (Road, Rain, Enduro, and the new Eco setting). For those desiring advanced options, the Ride Modes Pro package offers Dynamic, Dynamic Pro, and Enduro Pro modes. The bike now incorporates radar-powered cruise control, providing intelligent pacing of vehicles ahead and enhancing front collision and lane change warnings. The system can apply brakes to reduce the risk of sudden vehicle deceleration accidents.

October 22, 2023
Heritage Meets Performance: The Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650

The Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 is a remarkable motorcycle that holds great significance in the world of motorcycling. With its classic design, impressive performance, and superb build quality, it showcases Royal Enfield’s journey, from its roots to its current position, and hints at where it’s heading. The Super Meteor 650’s vintage styling pays homage to the brand’s original cruisers, like the 1952 Meteor and 1956 Super Meteor. Its 648cc parallel-twin engine continues the beloved thumpy character that enthusiasts have come to cherish in the INT650 and Continental GT 650. Moreover, the exceptional fit and finish of the Super Meteor 650 set a new standard for Royal Enfield.

The Super Meteor 650 is a retro-styled middleweight cruiser designed to be both accessible and functional, offering a comfortable riding posture. It comes with a class-leading starting MSRP of $6,999, making it a highly affordable option in the middleweight cruiser category. Designed around Royal Enfield’s beloved parallel-twin engine, the Super Meteor 650 competes with models like the Kawasaki Vulcan S and the Honda Shadow line. Although it boasts a smaller engine size compared to the discontinued Harley-Davidson 883 Sportster, it is well-suited to fill the void left by that American V-twin.

The motorcycle is powered by a SOHC fuel-injected engine with a 78.0 x 67.8mm bore and stroke and four valves per cylinder, featuring a 9.5:1 compression ratio. It delivers a claimed 46.4 hp and 38.6 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine has been tuned differently compared to the 2022 Royal Enfield INT650, resulting in slightly varied power delivery. Expect similar results on the dyno when tested.

The Super Meteor 650 features an all-new chassis designed by Harris Performance, a renowned British chassis specialist owned by Royal Enfield since 2015. The tubular-steel frame ensures a low center of gravity and a comfortable seat height of 29.1 inches. With a rake of 27.6 degrees, a trail of 4.7 inches, and a longer wheelbase of 59.1 inches, the motorcycle provides a stable and comfortable ride. The increased wheelbase also allows more space for a passenger. The Super Meteor 650 is equipped with tubeless alloy rims and tires sized 100/70-19 front and 150/80-16 rear.

For suspension, it features a non-adjustable 43mm Showa Big Piston inverted fork with 4.7 inches of travel and twin shocks with five-step adjustable preload, offering 4.0 inches of travel. In terms of safety, the motorcycle is equipped with non-switchable ABS. It doesn’t feature other electronic interventions or ride modes, preserving a classic riding experience throughout. The retro-themed instrument panel includes an analog speedometer and a digital information screen displaying a fuel gauge, gear position indicator, tripmeters, and a clock. Additionally, the Super Meteor 650 incorporates Royal Enfield’s Tripper turn-by-turn navigation pod, which connects to a smartphone via Bluetooth. To enhance the bike’s visceral feel, it utilizes a mechanical throttle cable that provides a solid, analog connection between rider and machine.

The Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 is available in three variants: Astral ($6,999), Interstellar ($7,299), and Celestial ($7,499). The Astral model offers a choice of three colors (green, black, and blue), while the Interstellar variant features a two-tone paint scheme in green or gray. The Super Meteor 650 Tourer is available in Celestial Red or Celestial Blue and includes a windscreen, deluxe touring seat, and pillion backrest. The bike’s iconic cruiser styling is further complemented by a 4.2-gallon teardrop fuel tank with a metal gas cap. Additionally, all models come with LED lighting, marking a first for Royal Enfield.

October 22, 2023
From Dirt Bikes to Reggae Vibes: The Unique Story of an Irie Triumph Street Twin

In the world of motorcycle customization, one can truly say, “your bike, your marriage.” And what if that marriage includes a reggae-inspired paint job? Well, that’s precisely what one motorcycle enthusiast requested, and Vietnam’s MFix Workshop brought this unique vision to life on a Triumph Street Twin.

This Triumph Street Twin may exude an “irie” vibe with its reggae-themed design, but don’t be fooled – it packs a punch when it comes to performance. The owner of this custom motorcycle isn’t just a reggae music fan; he’s also an avid dirt bike rider. This custom build combines both worlds, offering a striking appearance and a thrilling ride.

The customization journey began with a focus on the electronics. The client wanted a comprehensive suite of Motogadget electronics with smartphone integration, and that’s where MFix Workshop started. They removed the bike’s original wiring loom and replaced it with a Bluetooth-enabled Motogadget mo.unit controller. They also installed a lightweight Lithium-ion battery and a special box from Peak-Mod that allows for aftermarket speedometer use.

All these components fit neatly under the seat and are secured with red, yellow, and green cable ties. Digging deeper into the bike’s performance, MFix upgraded the engine with a new camshaft from TEC, a Dynojet Power Commander 6 ECU, heavy-duty EBS clutch plates, and other performance-enhancing modifications. They also removed the Street Twin’s emissions sensors to enhance its breathing.

The suspension and running gear also received a complete overhaul. MFix Workshop equipped the bike with adjustable Öhlins FG 621 forks in the front, along with CNC-machined yokes and a Matris steering damper. At the rear, they added an aluminum swingarm from a Triumph Thruxton R, paired with adjustable K-Tech Razor shocks.

This upgraded suspension not only enhances performance but also gives the Street Twin a more respectable ride height. The motorcycle now rides on 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels from Kineo, wrapped in Metzeler Tourance tires, offering excellent street grip with a hint of gravel capability. Brembo Serie Oro brake calipers ensure reliable stopping power, and a Triumph Scrambler 1200 side stand accommodates the increased ground clearance.

In terms of bodywork, MFix Workshop shortened the Street Twin’s subframe and added a handcrafted composite flat track tail section. Topped with a leather seat, this tail section perfectly complements the Triumph’s stock fuel tank.

The front end features a powerful LED headlight and an enduro-style cowl from Rigid, mounted above a custom split mudguard design and flat track-style fork protectors. Towards the rear, you’ll find a bespoke MFix Performance radiator and an Evotech skid plate. Custom aluminum side panels complete the look.

MFix Workshop’s task was to turn this Triumph Street Twin into a true reflection of the client’s vision. Beyond the Rastafari-inspired design, the owner, who is a fan of the classic Yamaha SR400, wanted special engine badges that pay homage to it. These badges read ‘SR900’ and ‘SR400/500,’ referencing the Street Twin’s 900 cc engine. The lime green Acerbis heat shield attached to the robust two-into-one Zard exhaust system was another client-specified detail.

October 19, 2023
The Resurgence of Two-Stroke: Tomasin Racing’s Innovative T500 Engine Kit

Enrico Tomasin, a former engine specialist at Honda for its MXGP program, has taken his passion for two-stroke dirt bikes to the next level. After years of dedication, he founded Tomasin Racing, a company focused on pushing the boundaries of motorcycle competition engines and electronics. One of their most exciting innovations is the T500 Engine Kit, a plug-and-play conversion kit designed to turn a 2021–2024 Honda CRF450R into a powerful 500cc two-stroke machine.

Production of big-bore two-stroke dirt bikes has become a rarity in recent times. However, Tomasin Racing’s T500 Engine Kit proves that enthusiasts are not willing to let the two-stroke legacy fade away. With three years of relentless development, Tomasin Racing has created a kit that brings new life to your Honda CRF450R. The best part? You won’t need to modify the CRF450R’s aluminum twin-spar frame to accommodate this two-stroke powerhouse.

The T500 Engine Kit includes a comprehensive set of components, ensuring a seamless conversion. Here’s what you can expect to find in the kit: engine cases, crankshaft, connecting rod, cylinder, piston, cylinder head, reed valve, billet intake manifold, spark plug, gaskets, exhaust manifold, pipe, silencer, a dedicated ECU, an electric water pump, billet water pump cover, titanium cylinder studs and screws, and a 14-tooth countershaft sprocket.

For those who prefer to use their existing gearbox from a stock CRF450R, Tomasin Racing offers an option to purchase the big-bore two-stroke powerplant without a gearbox. If you opt for this, you will need to use the gearbox from your CRF450R.

Now, let’s talk about the price. The T500 Engine Kit without a gearbox is available for 8,500 euros, which is equivalent to $8,981 at the time of writing. If you prefer to have the gearbox included, the total cost will be 10,500 euros, roughly $11,094.

The T500 Engine Kit is a testament to Enrico Tomasin’s passion and expertise, born out of years of working with Honda’s motocross racing program. This kit is more than just a collection of parts; it’s a gateway to transforming your Honda CRF450R into an entirely different beast.

October 19, 2023
Smart and Stylish: BMW’s Vario Luggage for the R1300 GS

BMW has introduced an updated, electrified version of its Vario luggage system for the new BMW R1300 GS adventure bike. This innovative luggage system includes both side cases and a top box designed to cater to the needs of modern riders.

The top box and side cases are made of hard materials and offer significant storage capacity. However, what sets them apart is their electrification. These cases are equipped with the ability to charge electronic devices like smartphones, laptops, or any other gadget with a USB-A connector. They provide a power supply of 15W (5V/3A) for efficient charging. Both the left-side case and the top box are capable of charging your devices.

Additionally, the Vario luggage system can be integrated into the BMW R1300 GS’s remote central locking system for added convenience. Even if you misplace the remote fob, you can still open the Vario boxes using a regular mechanical key.

This updated system allows for a maximum storage capacity of 97 liters. It incorporates a wheel adjuster that makes it easier to change the volume, eliminating the need for the previous two-step system. You can adjust the combined volume of the side cases between approximately 49 liters and 60 liters (with an adjustment of 5.5 liters per side case), and the top box can be varied from 28 liters to 36 liters. Each side case has a load limit of 10kg, while the top box is limited to 6kg. External loads of up to 2kg can be attached to the top box, and up to 1kg to each side case.

However, it’s important to note that BMW recommends a maximum permissible speed of 112 mph when riding with the Vario system. Additionally, this new system is not compatible with previous BMW GS models, including the previous R1250.

To enhance the functionality of the cases, BMW offers Vario Inner Bags as accessories. These bags come in two sizes: a larger bag for each case and a smaller bag for each side case. The smaller bag can be placed on top of the larger bag inside the case. The larger bag designed for the left case features a padded compartment for electronic devices and a cable outlet, making it perfect for charging your gadgets on the go.

This innovative electrified Vario luggage system demonstrates BMW’s commitment to providing modern riders with practical and advanced solutions to enhance their riding experience. It combines the convenience of ample storage space with the ability to charge your electronic devices while on the road, catering to the needs of today’s tech-savvy motorcyclists.

October 18, 2023
Honda’s 2024 Gold Wing and Rebel Motorcycles Get Stunning New Paint Options

In 2024, Honda is introducing new paint options for its Gold Wing and Rebel motorcycle ranges. These updates are aimed at refreshing the visual appeal of these popular models.

Honda Gold Wing
The Honda Gold Wing, available in both standard and Tour versions, is receiving several new color options for 2024. The standard GL1800 will now come in the attractive ‘Matt Armoured Green Metallic’ color. The Gold Wing Tour version, on the other hand, gets a completely new color option – ‘Heavy Gray Metallic’ with ‘Graphite Black’ detailing and bronze engine covers. Additionally, the existing ‘Pearl Glare White’ paint will be updated to include new “Graphite Black” detailing.

Honda Rebel
The Honda Rebel lineup is a testament to Honda’s versatile engineering approach. The CMX1100 Rebel, powered by the same 1,084cc parallel twin-cylinder engine found in the Africa Twin and NT1100, has been a remarkable cruiser. For 2024, the CMX1100 is getting two new color choices: ‘Glint Wave Blue Metallic’ and ‘Iridium Gray Metallic.’ Moreover, the CMX1100T, a touring-style variant with a larger front cowl and hard side cases, will continue to be offered in the ‘Gunmetal Black Metallic’ color, now featuring bronze wheels.

The mid-capacity CMX500 Rebel, a smaller sibling of the CMX1100, is also receiving fresh paint options. New colors include ‘Seal Silver Metallic’ and ‘Matt Laurel Green Metallic,’ in addition to the existing ‘Mat Gunpowder Black Metallic.’ Furthermore, the CMX500 S, equipped with a headlight cowl, black fork covers, gaiters, and a diamond-stitch style seat, will now come in the new ‘Pearl Shining Black’ color.

These visual updates to the Gold Wing and Rebel ranges aim to provide motorcycle enthusiasts with more choices and refreshed aesthetics for the 2024 model year.

October 15, 2023
Kawasaki’s Z650RS: A Lightweight and Nimble Ride for 2024

Kawasaki’s Z650RS for 2024 brings some modern technology to its classic design. The Z650RS is part of Kawasaki’s retro sport family, and this year, it comes with the addition of the Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC) system, which offers two modes plus an option to turn it off.

The KTRC system is all about enhancing the riding experience. It has two modes, Mode 1 and Mode 2, along with an option to disable it. Mode 1 is less intrusive, catering to more aggressive riding styles. On the other hand, Mode 2 takes a more proactive role in managing traction, making it ideal for challenging road conditions like wet or slippery surfaces.

The Z650RS is powered by Kawasaki’s well-regarded 649cc parallel-twin engine. Known for its smooth fuel delivery and punchy midrange power, this engine provides a satisfying riding experience. The bike retains a host of features, including a steel trellis frame, a 41mm nonadjustable fork, and a pair of two-piston Nissin calipers. These components contribute to the Z650RS’s reputation as a lightweight, practical choice for everyday riding, especially in urban environments.

The Z650RS embraces the design elements of Kawasaki’s Z models from the 1970s. It exhibits a classic retro style with a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, a round headlight, a dual analog speedometer/tachometer, and spoke-style cast wheels.

The introduction of traction control in the 2024 Z650RS comes with only a modest price increase. The bike, now equipped with traction control, is priced at $9,599, which is just $500 more than the previous version. When compared to Yamaha’s similarly styled XSR700, which lacks traction control and costs $8,899, the Z650RS appears to be a competitive choice.

The 2024 Kawasaki Z650RS comes with an affordable price tag, starting at $9,599. Under the hood, it’s powered by a 649cc DOHC, liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine with 4 valves per cylinder. This engine features a bore and stroke of 83.0 x 60.0mm and a compression ratio of 10.8:1. Riders will enjoy a 6-speed transmission and a chain final drive, ensuring a smooth and efficient power delivery.

The claimed horsepower is not specified, but the Z650RS boasts 48.5 lb.-ft. of torque at 6,500 rpm. It utilizes a DFI (Digital Fuel Injection) system with Keihin 36mm throttle bodies for optimal fuel delivery. The clutch is a wet, multiplate type with a slipper function to enhance control.

In terms of engine management and ignition, the Z650RS employs TCBI with digital advance, ensuring a responsive and efficient performance. Its frame is built with a steel trellis design, providing both strength and agility on the road.

The front suspension consists of a 41mm telescopic fork with 4.9 inches of travel, while the rear suspension features a horizontal back-link design with spring preload adjustability and 5.1 inches of travel. The front brake system utilizes 2-piston calipers and dual 300mm discs, complemented by ABS for added safety. At the rear, there’s a 1-piston caliper with a 220mm disc also equipped with ABS.

The Z650RS rides on spoke-style cast aluminum wheels, measuring 17 x 3.50 inches both at the front and rear. The tires are sized at 120/70-17 for the front and 160/60-17 for the rear. The bike has a rake and trail of 24.0 degrees and 3.9 inches, respectively. The wheelbase stretches to 55.5 inches, providing stability on the road.

October 13, 2023
Classic Meets Modern: The BMW R75 Gets an Electric Makeover

Electric motorcycle conversions of classic bikes are gaining momentum. Paris-based custom shop Mototherapy has introduced ‘Ride Mercury,’ an electric motorcycle conversion project that targets classic BMW boxers, and they’ve rolled out their prototype, the ‘R01.’

The R01 is based on the timeless BMW R75 motorcycle, which has been carefully restored, preserving most of its original charm.

Mototherapy’s objective with the ‘Ride Mercury’ project is to revive classic motorcycles by adding electric drivetrains. Company founder Jean-Marie Raymon emphasizes that functionality is at the heart of their efforts, aiming for a practical enhancement rather than creating a mere showroom novelty.

To achieve this, Mototherapy’s team has ingeniously designed a full electric drivetrain that seamlessly fits into the BMW R75’s chassis, without the need for any frame modifications. This plug-and-play system keeps the essence of the original motorcycle intact.

The electric motor delivers up to 20 kW of power, producing a maximum of 340 Nm of torque and 30 hp, driving the rear wheel. The current range on a single charge is approximately 150 km (93 miles), and the onboard 1.8 kW charger takes about six hours for a full recharge.

All the essential components are neatly packaged within custom-made aluminum enclosures, with structural elements crafted from steel. Two of the four batteries are housed in cases designed to resemble the boxer’s iconic cylinder heads, while the other two are positioned closer to the front of the bike. The electric motor is located where the original transmission used to be and is directly connected to the BMW’s original driveshaft.

Because Mototherapy handles all design aspects in-house, the layout is continually evolving. A second-generation design is already in the works, featuring ‘cylinder heads’ positioned a bit lower for improved ventilation.

It’s essential to note that the R01 serves as a proof of concept. This explains the use of Ride Mercury’s prototype ‘engine block’ design and the fact that many other aspects of the bike remain original. The objective is to demonstrate that an electric drivetrain can be retrofitted onto a vintage motorcycle without requiring a complete overhaul of the machine.

Only a few components have been upgraded, such as the headlight internals and the digital dashboard that connects to the motor’s controller. Currently, the original fuel tank is an empty shell, but the team is exploring options to convert it into storage space or integrate an enhanced charging port.

For those looking to get their hands on one, the entire package isn’t available as a ‘crate’ system yet. However, Ride Mercury will assemble a complete electric BMW R75 for a starting price of €29,500 (around $31,233). Pre-orders for the R01 will open next week, with the first deliveries expected in the second quarter of the coming year.

October 12, 2023