Virtual Content Has No Border

Tag: retro

Nokia 3210 Returns: A Promotional Video with a Retro Twist

HMD Global has unveiled the promotional video for the new Nokia 3210 on YouTube, striking a balance between nostalgia and modernity. The video showcases the phone’s updated design and vibrant color options, emphasizing its aesthetic appeal over technical specifications.

While it highlights the inclusion of the iconic Snake game, it leaves out details like Bluetooth connectivity and a 3.5 mm jack, suggesting a focus on the phone’s role as a stylish accessory rather than a feature-heavy device.

The video’s opening with a pixelated image from MWC2024 introduces the term “newtro,” blending the old with the new, accompanied by a catchy tune that could be one of the phone’s ringtones. This approach aligns with the tradition of creating a sense of anticipation and cultural narrative around phone launches.

The timing of the video’s release, a day after the official announcement, adds to the intrigue and conversation around the Nokia 3210’s comeback.

The promotional video for the Nokia 3210 is a masterful blend of the phone’s storied past and its updated design elements, catering to both long-time fans and those seeking a minimalist mobile experience. By focusing on the phone’s design and nostalgic value, HMD Global taps into the growing trend of simplifying technology and embracing the charm of yesteryears. The Nokia 3210’s promotional strategy reflects a keen understanding of consumer desires for both simplicity and style in the digital age.

May 10, 2024
Retro Full Face Helmet Comparison: Shoei vs DMD vs Biltwell

If you’re in the market for a retro-style helmet to match your classic bike, you’re in luck. Nowadays, there’s a range of full face options from different brands to choose from. We’ve been putting three of these helmets to the test: the Shoei Glamster, DMD Rivale, and Biltwell Inc. Gringo SV.

All three helmets offer a vintage-inspired design that harks back to the 70s and 80s. They boast a minimalist look that complements classic motorcycles perfectly. However, it’s important to note that these helmets have compact shells, which may not suit everyone’s head shape.

In terms of performance, all three helmets provide decent ventilation and noise reduction, but they may not offer the same level of cooling or noise isolation as more performance-oriented helmets. Safety-wise, they all meet Europe’s ECE standards, with the Biltwell Gringo SV also being DOT-certified for the US market.

Starting with the DMD Rivale, it offers a classic look reminiscent of 80s motorsports. Constructed from a fiberglass and carbon kevlar composite shell, it features a comfortable and plush interior with faux leather details. The Rivale’s compact design may feel snug for some riders, but it offers a secure fit straight out of the box. Ventilation is limited to chin vents, and while the Pinlock anti-fog visor insert works well, its positioning may be distracting for some riders.

Moving on to the Shoei Glamster, it boasts a stunning design with various color options. Featuring Shoei’s multi-layered AIM shell and EPS liner, the Glamster offers a premium feel with its synthetic nubuck and leather trim. However, its slim design may sacrifice some comfort for riders with larger heads.

The Biltwell Inc. Gringo SV offers a classic aesthetic with modern features. It’s constructed from an injection-molded ABS outer shell with a removable and washable interior liner. The Gringo SV provides a comfortable fit and easy shield swaps, but its ventilation may not be sufficient for extremely hot days. All three helmets offer a blend of style and functionality suitable for riders seeking a retro look. Riders should consider their head shape and comfort preferences when choosing between these options.

February 19, 2024
Kawasaki’s 2024 ZX-10RR Retro Liveries: A Nod to 1990s ZXR750 Heritage

Kawasaki has introduced three special retro color schemes for their 2024 Ninja ZX-10RR superbike at the Motorcycle Live show in Birmingham. These designs, available as limited editions, pay homage to the early 1990s ZXR750 and mark the 40th anniversary of the Ninja superbike. These special liveries, created as UK-only limited editions, are already on sale.

To celebrate 40 years of Ninja, Kawasaki UK collaborated with Kar Lee Design to develop liveries for the ZX-10RR inspired by retro colors from the last four decades. The UK social media followers of the Japanese brand voted for their favorite designs, and SprayBay, a UK paint specialist, turned the top three into reality.

These tribute ZX-10RRs are limited to 40 units, each featuring anniversary plates on the top yokes and a special anniversary logo. Buyers have the option to choose from the three designs. Additionally, each bike comes with Kawasaki’s ‘Performance Edition’ specification, including an Akrapovic can, pillion seat cover, smoked screen, and tank pad. Customers will also receive a paddock stand, a special bike cover, and a Ninja 40th-anniversary keyring. The cost of each bike is £26,599, and they are available for order from dealers.

This initiative by Kawasaki aims to tap into the growing popularity of retro-themed motorcycles in recent years. The retro liveries, reminiscent of the early 1990s ZXR750, have been designed to evoke nostalgia among motorcycle enthusiasts and celebrate the longstanding legacy of the Ninja superbike, which debuted with the GPz900R Ninja in 1984.

Kawasaki UK Sales and Marketing Manager, Craig Watson, expressed confidence that these special liveries would be well-received, emphasizing the need for interested buyers to contact their local Kawasaki dealers promptly. The limited-edition ZX-10RRs not only feature unique colors but also come with the ‘Performance Edition’ specification, enhancing the overall package for enthusiasts.

The collaboration with Kar Lee Design allowed Kawasaki to draw inspiration from retro colors spanning four decades, providing a visual treat for fans of the brand. The involvement of social media followers in voting for their preferred designs added an interactive element to the unveiling process.

With just 40 units available, each adorned with special anniversary plates and logos, these ZX-10RRs offer a unique opportunity for Kawasaki enthusiasts to own a piece of the brand’s history. The inclusion of exclusive features, such as the ‘Performance Edition’ specification and commemorative items, further enhances the appeal of these limited-edition motorcycles.

November 23, 2023
The Stylish Yamaha XSR900 GP: A Mix of Retro Aesthetics and Modern Features

Yamaha, the renowned motorcycle manufacturer, has unveiled a new bike, the Yamaha XSR900 GP, that’s turning heads. It’s a blend of classic and modern design, making it one of the most striking factory-made motorcycles we’ve seen.

Yamaha doesn’t have as many modern classic models as brands like Triumph or Royal Enfield. But they’ve been actively involved in the custom build scene through their ‘Yard Built’ initiative. This has produced several exceptional custom Yamaha bikes.

The XSR900 GP is reminiscent of a high-quality custom build rather than an off-the-shelf bike. It’s based on the ‘DB40’ prototype Yamaha showcased at the Goodwood Festival of Speed earlier this year. The production version retains the stunning design and adds practicality for the street.

Yamaha’s rich history in motorcycle racing plays a significant role in the XSR900 GP’s design. The manufacturer has a strong legacy with riders like Giacomo Agostini, Kenny Roberts, Wayne Rainey, Max Biaggi, and Valentino Rossi. The iconic Yamaha Deltabox chassis, introduced in the 1982 YZR500 OW61 Grand Prix bike, is still used in several Yamaha motorcycles today, including the XSR900.

The XSR900 GP draws inspiration from Yamaha’s Grand Prix racing heritage and the 80s and 90s boxy aesthetic. The attention to detail is remarkable, from visible fasteners on the half-fairing to a small rectangular LED headlight. The cockpit features clip-on handlebars and a relocated digital display within the fairing. Tubular fairing stays with beta pin bolts, a first for Yamaha production bikes, add to the vintage appeal.

The XSR900 GP’s eye-catching livery is reminiscent of Wayne Rainey’s 1990 YZR500, with red and white colors, yellow ‘number boards,’ and silver finishes for the chassis and swingarm. Yamaha has paid close attention to how the graphics align with the front fork angle.

Beneath the striking bodywork, the XSR900 GP is essentially an XSR900 but with frame tweaks and a reinforced swingarm to accommodate the sportier clip-ons. The riding position is set up to be spirited but not overly aggressive, with higher clip-ons, a thicker seat, and adjustable foot controls. It inherits the XSR900’s KYB suspension, Brembo front brakes, ABS, and electronic rider aids. New switchgear and bar-end mirrors enhance its appearance, and it rides on rotary-forged aluminum wheels with Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 tires.

The XSR900 GP uses the same 889cc triple-cylinder engine, offering 117.4 hp and 93 Nm of torque. Yamaha claims it has a higher top speed and better acceleration due to the aerodynamics of its fairing. The radiator’s air ducts aid in heat dissipation. The XSR900 GP will be available in two color options: ‘Legend Red’ and ‘Power Grey.’ Buyers can also opt for lower fairings, a different license plate holder, a tinted screen, and an Akrapovič exhaust system.

October 26, 2023
Nokia’s Retro Phones: A Nostalgic Solution to Social Media Overuse!

You don’t have to do extreme things to stop using social media too much. You can put your phone in a drawer or make it show colors that are not so nice to look at, but there are easier ways to take a break. Think about old-fashioned phones, for example.

These phones are like a blast from the past, when phones couldn’t go on the internet. It’s like going back to a time when your ringtone was more important than your profile picture and we used to type smiley faces in our texts.

You’re in luck if you want to feel like it’s 1999 again. Nokia has made two phones that look like the ones from the past, with buttons you can press. They remind us of the cool 8210 phone. Nokia is known for making good phones that are simple and bring back good old memories. The Nokia 150 and 130 are just like those.

So, if you still like talking on the phone instead of sending voice messages, and typing out texts instead of getting almost right messages, these phones are for you. You won’t find TikTok or Tinder on these phones, but you can play a game called Snake if you’re bored. Trust me, it’s fun to see your friend’s face when they see you playing.

The Nokia 150 also has a long battery, so you can talk a lot. And if you miss your iPod, this phone can play music, but you have to use wired headphones – no Bluetooth here.

You might still need a friend with a Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 when you want to take a picture with a group. The Nokia 150’s camera is not very good, it takes pictures that aren’t so clear because of its small 0.3-megapixel lens.

They might think you’re crazy when they see that your Nokia 130 doesn’t even have a camera. But you know what? While they’re stuck on TikTok, you can enjoy nature, read a book, or meditate. And they spent a lot of money on their new phone, but you didn’t spend much on yours.

The Nokia 130 and 150 cost about £40, so they can be good gifts for young people, or good phones to use for a short time.

August 4, 2023