CanadianMotorcycleRider

First 2012 Zero DS rolls off the assembly line

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 11:46:00 +0000

North American Dealers scheduled to receive first shipment of 2012 Zero DS models in January.

Zero motorcycles recently celebrated the start of production of its ground breaking 2012 model line with the rollout of its first new 2012 Zero DS. Management and staff greeted the arrival of the stunning new Zero DS motorcycle on Dec. 15, 2011 (it was an early Christmas present) with applause and excitement. Additionally, Zero Motorcycles announces that the entire product line is in full production and dealers and consumers alike can expect to see the motorcycles hitting the marketplace throughout the first quarter of 2012. Zero recently debuted the all-new 2012 product line to a very positive response this past November at the 2011 EICMA Motorcycle Show in Milan, Italy.

“It’s an amazing feeling to watch the fruition of so much hard work and effort as it comes into being and becomes something that is so special and unique,” said Scot Harden, Vice President of Global Marketing for Zero Motorcycles. “We are very proud of our dedicated team at Zero Motorcycles. Without their passion and dedication to building the very best electric motorcycle, we wouldn’t be in the position we are today. The progress being made is phenomenal, every model in the lineup goes faster, further and is more fun than ever before.”

The Zero S, a street fighter, and Zero DS, a dual sport, are both available in a 6 or 9 kWh configuration. As measured by the EPA UDDS, the Zero S is capable of respectively achieving 76 or 114 miles on a single charge. Both motorcycles offer a higher top speed, with the Zero DS hitting 80 mph and the Zero S topping out at 88 mph. Both motorcycles offer a broad torque band and stealthy acceleration from 0 rpm that makes them incredibly fun to ride. In addition, all the street models, including the Zero XU, feature new brushless motors and regenerative braking that allow riders to recoup energy during deceleration. The Zero XU, a motorcycle designed for inner city riding, now uses the same maintenance-free belt drive system as the Zero S and Zero DS. Brushless air-cooled motors, life of motorcycle power packs and belt drive systems make Zero’s lineup of street models just about the world’s easiest-to-own form of transportation.

Zero’s new Z-Force power pack uses a completely new battery cell chemistry and configuration that is up to 95 percent more energy dense and is rated to 3,000 complete charge cycles before hitting 80 percent capacity. This means that a Zero S could travel as much as 308,000 miles on its original power pack. All of Zero’s on and off-road motorcycles leverage the new technology, meaning that the power pack is designed to exceed the longevity expected of any conventional motorcycle. The result is a complete electric motorcycle line that offers owners exhilarating rides while saving on gas and virtually all-routine powertrain maintenance. The same is true for the all new Zero X and MX. Improvements in styling, performance and range make both of these off-road oriented models a dream to own and operate. With almost three times the range of previous Zero X and MX models, and with substantially more power on tap, these electric dirt motorcycles take off-road riding to an all new level.

Husqvarna reminds you that motocross is FUN

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:21:00 +0000

Just in case you forgot or maybe you've never ridden a motocross bike - they're wicked fun.

Not sure? Watch this Husqvarna video and your mind will be made up.

I don't know about you but the sound of a two-stoke flips a switch in my brain that says "Hell Yeah!" Add a leg out turn through a berm, rooster tail of dirt, real wheel sliding out and well I'm wondering why I'm sitting here at a computer and not out riding.

Oh yeah, it's winter. Arghhh.

Arai Axcess II helmet

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

Arai has a new video showing many of the design and safety features of their Axcess II motorcycle helmet. It's a pretty slippery looking helmet (aerodynamically speaking) and has all the comfort and safety features you've come to expect from a top brand like Arai.

This model doesn't appear to be on Arai's website yet.

Check it out:

2012 Canadian Enduro Championship

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 11:49:00 +0000

Time to get your motorcycle ready for another season of racing! Some exciting news for Canadian Enduro racing fans! The team at the Canadian Enduro Championship are very close to finalizing all the details for the 2012 Canadian Championship season.

Full details:

We are pleased welcome back many of our previous sponsors and some new ones – this series could not happen with out the strong support of companies like Royal Distributing, Yamaha, KTM, and Honda!

We look forward to the return of many of the fastest off road racers in Canada. Lots of questions will be answered. Will KTM’s Bobby Prochnau be able to continue his dominance now that he has a full plate of racing in the US? Is this the year KTM’s Geoff Nelson or maybe Husaberg’s Ben Rego unseats him? Will Honda’s Jason Schrage bounce back from his back luck in Quebec last season to regain the #1 plate he held last season? Is this the year that Yamaha’s Brian Wojnarowski moves to the top of the podium? Which riders will move up from the amateur ranks to the Pro level?

The series will begin at an all new location in Vernon, BC on July 7 & 8 hosted by the Vernon Off Road Motorcycle Club. Pre-registration is already open!

After BC the series moves to scenic Blairmore, AB on July 14 & 15th. Clint’s Full Gas crew is planning some great new mountain trails to entertain and challenge everyone! The event will be taking place on the same weekend as the Thunder in the valley fireworks show so hotel space is very limited. I happen to know that as of today there are a few rooms at the Coleman & Blairmore Best Canadian Motor Inn so if your planning to attend and need a room CALL RIGHT away as the next closest hotel is 40 minutes away in Pincher Creek. Coleman 403-563-5600 Blairmore 403-562-8851.

The series moves to the east in September. Big news for 2012 is our partnership with the FMSQ who will be hosting the Quebec round at a new location! We are working with the FMSQ and our Ontario crew to finalize the best dates and locations which will be announced in February.

Please keep an eye on our site www.worldendurocanada.com for more details – we will be updating it regularly in the next few months with both our National and regional event news.

Tim Hortons (Sudbury) to be Title Sponsor of Ben Young’s Daytona 200 effort

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 11:15:00 +0000

Canadian coffee icon Tim Hortons (Sudbury) will be Ben Young Racing / Fogi Racing’s Title Sponsor for the first race of the AMA Pro Road Racing 2012 season as well as the prestigious Daytona 200, which will be held at the legendary Daytona International Raceway, Daytona Beach. Florida, USA, March 15 - 17th 2012.

18 year old Ben Young from Thornbury ON, competing in the AMA Pro GoPro Daytona SportBike class under the Fogi Racing Development Team banner, is extremely proud to be partnered with Tim Hortons Sudbury franchisee Gilles Bolduc.

Bolduc, a former Canadian Superbike road racer himself, saw this as an opportunity to promote one of North America's largest quick service restaurant chains through a sport he personally has a passion for and a young Scottish-Canadian rider that he feels has a tremendous future ahead of him.

Bolduc missed out on his Daytona PRO Superbike racing debut at the celebrated Daytona 200 himself back in 1986 as a rule change in engine displacement was introduced. Bolduc stated “I couldn’t believe I would be unable to compete when the displacement changed to 750cc. Now I have been given the chance to live vicariously through Ben’s experience.”

Bolduc added “I’ve been watching Ben’s progress for some time now; from 125cc through to the 600s. Ben is an excellent, consistence and clean racer. I’m so pleased to be able to assist in the progress in his career.”

Young, who’s moving up to the next level of his development programme - the AMA Pro GoPro Daytona SportBike class from the AMA Pro Motorcycle-Superstore.com SuperSport class in 2011 - was asked about the opportunity, “I can’t thank Tim Hortons (Sudbury) and Gilles enough for the support. It will be a great honour to represent the Tim Hortons brand on the bike and in the paddock as Tim Hortons is such a huge part of mine and so many others’ day-to-day life.”

For more information about Tim Hortons please visit www.timhortons.com and to keep up-to-date on the Ben Young Racing and the Fogi Racing Development Team, please visit www.fogi.us, facebook.com/BenYoungRacing and on Twitter @86BY.

Ben Young Racing and the Fogi Racing Development Team would also like to acknowledge the following companies for their support this season; Arai Helmets, Scot-build Developments, GPTech LLC, K&N Filters, EBC Brakes, Arlen Ness Racing boots, Armour Bodies, BCL Motorsports Pit Kit, Vortex Racing, RS Taichi Leathers and The North American International Motorcycle SUPERSHOW.

Earn a Yamaha Factory Ride

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 02:11:00 +0000

Yamaha Motor Canada is expanding its popular ‘Win a Factory Ride’ award to three of the biggest amateur motocross events in Canada!

At the 2011 Parts Canada Walton TransCan, RJ Marnoch accumulated the most points of any amateur Yamaha rider. For his efforts, RJ has been awarded the use of a YZ of his choice and a $2500 parts credit for the 2012 race season.

Bryan Hudgin, Yamaha’s Race Director commented, “I think RJ was a little surprised last year when he realized what he had won. The prize not only includes the use of a YZ, but also access to our great accessory and gear partners like AXO, One Industries, FMF, Matrix and our own Yamalube and GYTR brands, so there’s a lot of value!”

With the announcement that the award is available at the Raymond Western Canadian Amateur National (June 29 - July 2) and the Deschambault Eastern Canadian Amateur National (July 7 – 8) in addition to the Walton TransCan, Hudgin went on to talk about why Yamaha expanded the program, “The expansion now gives Yamaha riders from coast to coast a chance to earn this prize. It also shows our commitment to amateur racing and our appreciation for their business. We want our customers to know they’re always a part of the Yamaha family and hopefully this helps to do that.”

How Do You Win?

Of all the Yamaha riders at each event, the winning rider must attain the most cumulative points for their finishes. Enter as many classes as you can to increase your chances!

The Rules:

- Contest open only to amateur riders.
- You must be a resident of Canada.
- Your Yamaha must be a Canadian purchased unit.
- Rider cannot be an employee of Yamaha Motor Canada or one of its dealerships.
- Winner is only eligible for one prize. (Cannot win at multiple events)

On top of the ‘Factory Ride’ award, Yamaha will continue with their ‘Yamabucks For You’ campaign for the Walton, Raymond and Deschambault events. The top 3 Yamaha riders in each class will collect $75, $50 and $25 in Yamabucks, no matter their finishing position.

Hudgin concluded, “If you race Raymond, Deschambault or Walton, make sure you’re doing it on a Yamaha. You may ride for free in 2013 on a ‘Factory Ride’ or at least get a little extra money to spend at your dealer!”

Motomethod Community Motorcycle Repair Shop in Vancouver

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 13:01:00 +0000

Motomethod Community Motorcycle Repair Shop in Vancouver, BC is a full repair shop, for nearly all makes and models of motorcycles, old or new. Nothing too earth shattering in that news but there's more.

What's a little different about Motomethod is that they allow the rider to come in and ‘rent a bay’ and repair their own bike, or learn how. All their tools are available to those who come into the shop and if you need a hand fixing something - they're there to lend a hand. If you want them to do the work but keep a close eye on the work and perhaps learn a thing a two; you've got it. Get right in there and check it out.

The Zenga Bros. video does a fantastic job of building excitement for the idea and wanting to check out their shop. You couldn't get any better advertising than this in my opinion.

Nice idea. Wonder how expensive THAT insurance is?

The video below is directed by the Zenga Bros. The Zenga Bros are an independent film production company out of Vancouver British Colombia. They are four brothers, working together as adventure filmmakers, bicycle builders, and folk-stunt artists

The Motomethod Story from Zenga Bros on Vimeo.

Banshee Horn warning system for motorcycles

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 11:04:00 +0000

US based inventor Peter Olt has been a motorcyclist for more than 30 years and he's come up with a pretty interesting invention that he refers to as the Banshee Horn.

Basically, the Banshee Horn gives you the option of giving people a blast of a 135 decibel alternating horn and high beam headlights. You can still use your normal horn but holding down the horn button for either 1/4 or 1/2 a second activates the Banshee Horn circuitry.

His invention is posted on KickStarter which is an online invention promotion and funding site. Based on the information there his product is a go! It can still be had at a discounted price for a few more days so watch the video below and if you think it's a good idea better get yourself one fast before the price goes up!

I know there's at least a few times when I wouldn't have minded having the extra conspicuity this horn and lighting combination would provide.

Ducati Announces 43 Percent Growth in 2011

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 15:55:00 +0000

The Company Posted Six-Consecutive Quarters of Growth with Sales Increases in Every North American Region

Cupertino, Calif. (January 19, 2012) – Ducati North America today announced 2011 motorcycle sales growth of 43 percent compared to 2010 and a record market share in all of its territories: US, Canada and Mexico. This result established North America as Ducati’s number one market for the first time ever.

Ducati Performance line of apparel and accessories also recorded significant growth with a 50 percent annual increase.

Ducati’s growth was fueled by an expanding product line-up, including the award-winning Diavel and Multistrada. Voted “Best Cruiser of 2011” by several motorcycle magazines, the Diavel accomplishes its goal of capturing and attracting new customers to the brand. The Multistrada, voted “Best Open Street Bike” by Cycle World for the second year in a row, continues to prove its adventure touring capabilities with the successful completion of the historical La Carrera Panamericana race in Mexico along with its second win of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.

“Growth in the North American market is a top priority for Ducati. North America’s outstanding performance significantly contributed to Ducati’s global success in 2011, which has been a record year for us in terms of global sales, market share and profitability,” said Cristiano Silei, Chief Executive Officer of Ducati North America. “This year the company made substantial investments in new product, key personnel and in the strength of our distribution network. These elements, combined with an array of extraordinary products, including our new Superbike, the 1199 Panigale, will continue to fuel our growth in 2012 and beyond.”

In 2012, Ducati will refocus its efforts in the sportbike category with the first customer deliveries of the brand’s newest flagship Superbike, the Ducati 1199 Panigale and the 848EVO Corse Special Edition. New additions to the Ducati line-up also include the Diavel AMG, the recently announced Diavel Cromo, as well as the highly anticipatedStreetfighter 848.

Ducati North America also announced the launch of a new retail identity initiative aimed at enhancing the Ducati customer experience.

“The introduction of the retail identity program demonstrates Ducati’s commitment to its core brand values, wll, while building a complete and seamless shopping experience for customers,” said Dominique Cheraki, General Manager of Ducati North America. “We are dedicated to a continual investment in the functional and emotional quality of our products, as well as the premium retail experience.”

For more information about Ducati North America and Ducati’s line of performance motorcycles, please visit www.ducatiusa.com or your local Ducati dealer.

BMW K 1600 GT is voted "International Bike Of The Year 2011"

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 11:21:00 +0000

The BMW K 1600 GT is voted "International Bike Of The Year 2011”. The BMW K 1600 GT gets the top vote of the international motorcycle press jury at the Brussels Motor Show.

The BMW K 1600 GT has won the vote for the “International Bike Of The Year 2011 (IBOTY)" award. This was announced at a press conference given by the Belgian motorcycle magazine Motor Wereld at the Brussels Motor Show. The award for the K 1600 GT comes from an international jury representing 25 motorcycle magazines.

The K 1600 GT convinced the motorcycle journalists with its unique combination of comfort, performance and use of innovative technologies. The powerful in-line 6-cylinder engine was said to offer power, refinement and lots of fun. The bike's sophisticated technology - in addition to ABS, traction control and navigation system, an adaptive headlight and electronically controlled suspension with various modes increase active riding safety - makes the K 1600 GT an incomparable touring motorcycle. On the road, the outstanding qualities of the K 1600 GT are its agile chassis and unusually light handling. All this gives the rider a unique riding experience, according to the jury, impressing the most demanding touring and sports motorcyclists.

The K 1600 GTL was rated separately and also convinced the jury, finishing fourth, while the S 1000 RR followed it in fifth place alongside the Kawasaki ZX-10R. With three models in the top five places, the BMW Motorrad put in a highly impressive showing overall.

BMW Motorrad also won the highest rating in 2010 with the S 1000 RR.

The following magazines took part in the IBOTY 2011: Australian Motorcycle News (Australia), Auto By (Japan), Autocar India (India), Bike (Scandinavia), Bike (UK), Cycle World (USA), Der Reitwagen (Austria), Inmoto (Italy), KicXstart (Netherlands), Kiwi Rider (New Zealand), La Moto (Spain), Maximoto (France), Moto Kultur Asia (Malaysia and Singapore), Moto (Greece), Moto Journal (Canada), Moto & Loisirs (Belgium), Moto Mag (Israel), Motoraj (Czech Republic), Motoron (Turkey), MotoSi (Slovenia), MotorWereld (Belgium), PS Magazin (Germany), Revista Moto (Mexico), SuperBike (South Africa), Swiat Motocykli (Poland).

The results of the IBOTY 2011
1)    BMW K 1600 GT (41 points)
2)    Ducati Diavel (32 points)
3)    Aprilia Tuono V4 APRC (22 points)
4)    BMW K 1600 GTL (18 points)
5)    BMW S 1000 RR and Kawasaki ZX 10R (16 points each)

Ducati 1199 Panigale Dyno run

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 02:00:00 +0000

Italian motorcycle magazine Motociclismo apparently scored an opportunity to dyno a pre-production Ducati 1199 Panigale.

Unfortunately there's no horsepower numbers to accompany it. That information won't likely come out until the bikes launch in February. For now though it's enough just to hear the Panigale at full throttle.

It sounds pretty impressive to say the least and damn it's a fine looking bike too!

Video uploaded to YouTube by HellForLeatherMag

Motovan 2012 Fashion Catalog available online

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 15:20:00 +0000

Canadian motorcycle parts and accessories distributor Motovan has made its 2012 Fashion Catalog available online.

There's 584 pages of all kinds of helmets, jackets, gloves, boots, saddle bags & luggage, and much more for you to check out while you're waiting for all that snow to go away outside.

Canadian suggested retail pricing and parts numbers are listed so if you see something you like you can go to your local dealership and ask them to order it in if you don't see it on the shelf.

Check it out HERE.

Husqvarna success at the Dakar

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 14:30:00 +0000

Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain earns six podiums and one stage victory

Four out of five riders reached the finish in Lima. This debut result is highly encouraging for the team and the Husqvarna brand, as the new bike proved its worthiness right away - completing the race without a single technical failure.

The highlights were six podium finishes and one stage victory. This was part of the initial objective, which the team had targeted for the Dakar 2012. The team was consistently fast with two riders regularly up front - even if the aim to put one pilot on the overall podium couldn't be fulfilled.

The outstanding motivation of the team was tested with the jury decision against Paulo Goncalves. Also, Joan Barreda experienced bad luck during the stages three and four, when the talented Spaniard suffered from a crash and a broken rear wheel, which cost him a lot of valuable time. Barreda couldn´t make up the loss until the race end.

By the way: Joan Barreda was by many considered the revelation of this year´s Dakar. He was matching the speed of the top riders and is regarded as a man of the future.

Final standings
1. Cyril Despres (FRA) KTM 43:28:11 hrs  2. Marc Coma (SPA) KTM, 53:20 min behind  3. Helder Rodrigues (POR) Yamaha, 1:11:17  4. Jordi Viladoms (SPA) KTM, 1:40:56  5. Stefan Svitko (SVK) KTM, 1:47:28  11. Joan Barreda (SPA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 3:37:25  19. Zé Hélio (BRA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 6:16:35  23. Jose Manuel Pellicer (SPA), Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 7:41:09  26. Paulo Goncalves (POR) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 8:10:26  41.Pedro Bianchi Prata (Husqvarna)  71.Jorge Gomez (Husqvarna) 83.Rodrigo Illanes (Husqvarna)

Manufacturer´s/Team statistics, podium finishes
1. KTM, 27  
2. Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 6  
3. Yamaha, 2  
4. Sherco, 2  
5. Aprilia, 1  
6. Honda, 1

New Harley parts available

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 11:10:00 +0000

The folks at Harley-Davidson have some new accessory parts for you - some Screamin’ Eagle Muffler Shields, Chisel Custom Wheels, and Edge Cut Fork Slider Covers.

Full details:

The new Screamin’ Eagle Muffler Shields – Brushed Nickel (Part Number 65400079) from Harley Davidson Genuine Motor Accessories are styled to complement the jet-black finish of Screamin’ Eagle Street Performance Mufflers. These formed-steel muffler shields feature a unique electroless nickel plating that provides a warm, brushed finish. The rear shield features a black-filled, deep-embossed “Screamin; Eagle” signature script. The easy-to-install kit includes front and rear shields and mounting hardware, and fits 2004 and later Sportster models and 2006 and later Dyna models with shorty dual exhaust.

Pair the Brushed Nickel Muffler Shields with the Screamin’ Eagle Buckshot Exhaust Shield Kit – Brushed Nickel, which has a perforated design that exposes the head pipe. Manufactured to Original Equipment standards for an exacting fit, the easy-to-install kit includes front and rear head pipe shields and fits 2004 and later Sportster models and many 2006 and later Dyna models with shorty dual exhaust. See an authorized Harley-Davidson Retailer for fitment details.

The new Chisel Custom Wheels from Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Accessories feature seven narrow-profile split spokes that radiate from a minimalistic hub, and the resulting see-through effect visually lightens the profile of the motorcycle when paired with the pedestal-mounted Chisel Floating Brake Rotors. Offered in 17 inch front and 16-inch rear sizes for Harley-Davidson Touring models, the Chisel Wheels are available in mirror chrome (Part Number 43300057, front; Part Number 40900067, rear), or black-and-chrome contrast finish (Part Number 43300059, front; Part Number 40900069, rear).

Chisel wheels fit 2009 and later Touring models (except Trike and 2012 CVOTM models). They require the separate purchase of Chisel Floating Brake Rotors, a model-specific Wheel Installation Kit, sprocket hardware, and brake rotor-specific hardware. See an authorized Harley-Davidson Retailer for fitment details.

Chisel Floating Rotors are styled to complement the Chisel front wheel. The inner spider features a cutout design that mirrors the wheel’s seven distinctive open spokes. These rotors are available in two different finishes (Part Number 41500040, polished; Part Number 41500042, raw) and include chrome mounting hardware.

The new one-piece Edge Cut Upper Fork Slider Covers (Part Number 45600006) from Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Accessories are finished in a rich black powdercoat and machined to expose the raw aluminium casting. The resulting contrasting surfaces complement the Original Equipment satin-finished front end, or are a great compliment with accessory black fork sliders and other black front-end accessories. For a complete look, these covers can be paired with available Edge Cut wheels, controls, grips, mirrors, and saddlebag latches. These new Fork Slider Covers fit 1980 and later Harley-Davidson Touring and Trike models.

KTM Dakar Update - Despres takes fourth Dakar title; Eleventh win for KTM

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 02:28:00 +0000

Red Bull KTM factory rider Cyril Despres on Sunday rode into Lima in triumph to seal his fourth career Dakar title and to present KTM with its eleventh consecutive win in this, the toughest event on the annual motorsports calendar.

His KTM teammate Marc Coma finished second overall in what was one of the most epic two-way battles in the rally’s history.

KTM has now won the motorcycle division of the Dakar rally every year since 2001, with the exception of 2008 when it was canceled because of security threats. In the 2012 edition, eight of the top 10 finishers and 15 of the top 20 rode KTM machines underlining the dominance of the Austrian brand’s sports bikes.

The race was a personal triumph for French-born Despres who first won in 2005 and repeated the victory in 2007, 2010 and again in 2012. His KTM factory teammate Marc Coma, who won the rally in 2006, 2009 and 2011 finished second after one of the Dakar’s most historic and closely fought battles. Both riders set the scene for a two-way competition right from the first stage and remained minutes apart until the penultimate stage on Saturday. Coma won five stages in the 2012 edition and Despres four but it was the turn of the Frenchman to ride in triumph into Lima.

Cyril Despres: Today we won and it's simply fantastic. This is without a shadow of a doubt the toughest Dakar I've ever raced in. It was difficult physically, but even more psychologically. Challenging yourself every morning and fighting on the course takes its toll on your mind. It's not like a 42-kilometer marathon; here, you have to earn your place every morning. All victories are beautiful, but this one is special because it came down to the wire and was decided at the last minute. This was an unimaginable scenario, with the leaders separated by mere seconds. I've done 90 or 85 rallies throughout my life, and this one was the one where I had to fight the hardest. Today will leave its mark on me.”

The final stage from Pisco to Lima was largely ceremonial with a 254 km liaison section along the Pacific coastline of southern Peru and a brief 29 km timed special, a final encounter with the coastal dunes in the middle of the liaison section. Riders started in reverse order for the final stage that completed this marathon, almost 9,000 km ride from Mar del Plata in Argentina to Lima. Along the way they encountered vastly different terrain ranging from the Argentinean pampas to the high Andes, the daunting Atacama Desert of Chile and finally the southern coastal plains and rios of Peru. It was the first time that the rally had included Peru and the first time it represented a dash from the Atlantic coastline to the Pacific

The last timed special went to Pal Anders Ullevalseter of Norway (KTM) who finished ahead of Coma in second place. Despres, who said after the penultimate stage that the effort to stay ahead of Coma had cost a huge amount of physical and mental energy coasted home in tenth place.

Only minutes had separated the two KTM leaders going into the penultimate stage and the competition was fierce. Since the beginning of the rally both riders had never let up in speed and determination. But in the heat of the battle on Friday, Coma made a huge jump on the bike and when he landed he knew he had gearbox problems. He nursed the bike back to the bivouac but also made a navigational error in the process and this was enough to give his rival the lead he needed.

A new Dakar rule in 2012 penalizes riders 15 minutes for the first change of engines and 45 minutes for the second. As the factory team had decided to change out both engines in the lead riders bikes one stage into the second half of the rally this meant that when Coma’s engine was changed a second time he was given another 45 minutes penalty, effectively handing the title to his teammate.

Alex Doringer, Team Manager for KTM’s factory team said he was delighted that his top two riders had taken first and second place. “The battle between them was amazing,” he said from the finish in Lima, adding the team was also very happy that Johnny Aubert from the KTM Enduro Factory Team finished in overall fourteenth place in his rookie Dakar ride. Johnny rode a standard series model KTM 450 Rally Replica and went into the rally with a mission to learn and enjoy.

KTM’s motorsports expert Heinz Kinigadner, himself a former Dakar rider said it was a great day for the company. “This battle between Cyril Despres and Marc Coma was one of the tightest and one of the most interesting in the history of the rally. They were virtually wheel on wheel in almost every stage. They both gave everything both physically and mentally and they both deserve to go into the Dakar record books for this great effort. It is naturally unfortunate that Marc had some gearbox problems in the penultimate stage and picked up a 45-minute penalty for the engine change. Otherwise their times at the finish line would have been only minutes apart.”

Results Stage 14

1, Pal Anders Ullevalseter, Norway, KTM 22 minutes 26
2, Marc Coma, Spain, KTM 23:34
3, Stefan Svitko, Slovakia, KTM 24:09
4, Gerard Farres Guell, Spain, KTM 24:27
5, Alessandro Botturi, Italy, KTM 24:37

Other KTMs

7, Jordi Viladoms, Spain, KTM 26:01
10, Cyril Despres, France, KTM 26:17
12, Jacek Czachor, Poland, KTM 27:34
13, Felipe Zanol, Brazil, KTM 27:36
16, Paolo Ceci, Italy, KTM 28:35
18, Henk Knuiman, Netherlands, KTM 29:02
20, Johnny Aubert, France, KTM, 29:22

Overall Results after final Stage 14 **Victory by Despres gives KTM its eleventh consecutive Dakar title

1, Cyril Despres, France, KTM, 43 hours 28 minutes and 11 seconds
*Fourth Dakar Title for Despres
2, Marc Coma, Spain, KTM at 53:20
3, Helder Rodrigues, Portugal, Yamaha at 1:11:17
4, Jordi Viladoms, Spain, KTM at 1:40:56
5, Stefan Svitko, Slovakia, KTM 1:47:28

Other KTM

6, Pal Anders Ullevalseter, Norway, KTM at 2:11:56
7, Gerard Farres Guell, Spain, KTM at 2:14:22
8, Alessandro Botturi, Italy, KTM at 2:59:04
10, Felipe Zanol, Brazil, KTM at 3:25:56
12, Rubin Faria, Portugal, KTM at 4:13:10
13, Jacek Czachor, Poland, KTM at 4:39:09
14, Johnny Aubert, France, KTM at 4:39:39

Icon - Motorcycle vs. Car Drift Batle 2

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 02:23:00 +0000

There's more than 4 million views of this drifting video featuring a couple of Triumph Speed Triples and a 550 hp Mustang Cobra "police" car. The guys at Icon seem to be having quite a bit of fun... until they roll the Mustang. Whoops!

The video has a lot of views for a reason. There's some awesome footage here. Check it out:

Ducati in the snow

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 16:38:00 +0000

Okay - there's only about 10 seconds of bike in this video. Skip to 2:12 if you want a glimpse.

Good thing Valentino and Nicky are fast on the bikes - might not want to rely on their acting!

Slow news day...

Royal Enfield Wallpapers

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 18:08:00 +0000

Bored with that desktop background on your computer? Royal Enfield might have something for you then. Each month they update a wallpaper gallery on their website. When's that Cafe Racer coming?

Canadians may not get in those "riding days" indicated on the calendar in January but hey, it still looks good.

You can pick out your Royal wallpaper HERE

Photo courtesy Royal Enfield

Lehman Trikes' Founder Passes Away

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 11:30:00 +0000

The management team at Lehman Trikes have officially announced the passing of the company founder and director John Lehman. John passed away on Thursday, January 5, in Arizona. He was 60 years old.

He is survived by his wife Linda, one son – Quinten, one daughter – Leann, three surviving sisters – Gladys, Linda, Carol, and three grandchildren. Suspected cause of death is a heart failure brought on by an embolism.

Here's an excerpt from the management at Lehman Trikes:

John was one of the most recognized, admired and respected individuals in the motorcycling industry, and is generally considered the Father of the Modern Trike. In 2009 John was inducted into the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame.

In 1984, John’s passion for motorcycling and his love of family led him to create the first modern trike so his wife, Linda, could carry one of their children. John’s creation had more to do with family togetherness than a business venture. The vehicle garnered so much interest everywhere they traveled that Lehman Industries was born, and John Lehman would go on to become one of the most recognized names in motorcycling.

In 1993, Larry Strilchuk, a long time friend, joined John and Lehman Trikes, Inc. was formed. “Today is crushingly sad,” stated Larry, “John Lehman was my lifelong friend and amazing partner. Through good and bad times, John’s gracious nature, love of family and friends, and positive outlook always touched everyone who came in contact with him. He was dearly loved and will be sorely missed.”

Known for his caring and charitable nature, John along with Larry started a program called the “Good Turn Trike” which eventually became an annual event providing people with a passion for motorcycling, who face some of life’s greatest challenges, a trike – for free. John’s big heart helped raise money for terminally ill children, “Make A Wish Foundation”, “Kids n’ Chrome”, and many other worthwhile charities. He remained active in the company until his passing.

Lehman Trikes, Inc. had recently announced a Letter of Intent from an investment group relating to the sale of Lehman Trikes USA, Inc. The passing of Mr. Lehman will not materially affect that endeavor.

KTM - Dakar Stage 9 Race Report

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 01:52:00 +0000

Business as usual for Despres and Coma in Stage 9 Dakar 2012

It was business as usual for the two lead KTM factory riders, Cyril Despres and Marc Coma on Tuesday when riders set out for Stage 9 of the Dakar 2012 on a large arc from Antofagasta to Iquique in Chile. Despres, who had a dramatic day on Monday landing in a mud hole, went out like a man possessed, led throughout to claim the stage and reclaim the overall lead.

It was the French rider’s third stage victory in this edition. Coma has won four stages and with Stage Six scrapped, KTM has claimed seven of eight stages so far. Both riders are chasing their fourth Dakar Rally title and if either of them succeed it will represent KTM’s eleventh successive victory. The Austrian sports motorcycle specialist has shut out all the competition in every Dakar Rally since 2001 (the 2008 edition was cancelled).

Despres ended yesterday with a deficit of around 12 minutes after sacrificing the overall lead to Coma. The mud hole turned out to be a natural hazard that occurred after the final official inspection had been done by organizers and was not marked on the road book. Cyril and six other riders got stuck in the mud and race officials decided a detour was in order rather than deal with the obvious chaos. They later reinstated lost time to the riders disadvantaged and when they left on Tuesday Cyril trailed Marc by just over a minute.

It was with this in mind that he put down the hammer on his KTM 450 Rally bike and rode with a passion to lead throughout the special. His reward for such a doggedly determined ride was his third stage victory in Dakar 2012 to level with Coma’s three stages and a narrow lead in the overall standings.

Despres however went back to the bivouac knowing that the job is far from done. At the fourth Way Point Coma was 3 minutes 55 behind and at the finish, after riders had engaged in the steep descent down to Iquique, he trailed by 3 minutes 54 seconds. With third placed Helder Rodrigues of Portugal behind Despres at 59 minutes 19 seconds, the 33rd Dakar Rally continues to be a two-rider race.

Despres said he was feeling good after the stage. “I had to get back to my winning ways after a difficult day yesterday when you start to doubt. It wasn't easy to psyche myself up for it, but I'm very happy with my day's work. We came into this looking at a battle for seconds or minutes. It's very competitive. Like any sportsman, if you don't like confrontation or squeezing the last ounces of strength out of yourself, then you're not ready for a fight. But, as for me, I'm up for it.”

Meanwhile Coma is very aware that the race is still wide open and he remains cool, strong and ready to apply the necessary tactics. “We knew that this would be difficult today. It was a long special and there was plenty of navigation to deal with. We’re not coming to the crunch part of the rally. Cyril is a major rival and we do battle over every single kilometer. But I think it’s interesting, its sport.”

Joan Pedrero (Spain) and Rubin Faria (Portugal), the two support riders for the Coma and Despres finished twelfth and thirteenth respectively. Faria made a recovering after having to stop briefly just 1.7 km after the start.

The first part of the timed special was relatively fast with patches of fesh-fesh, very fine dust like flour. The second special tested the navigational skills and the stage finished with a steep descent down to the coast at Iqique, a slope that already was a feature of the 2010 Dakar.

Stage 10 takes the Dakar Caravan from Iquique to Arica right on the border of Peru. It will be the riders’ last encounter with Chile’s notorious Atacama Desert with another dose of the power soft and quite treacherous fesh-fesh dust. Arica was the most northern point in last year’s rally. But it will not be the end of the sands. This year they continue into the coastal desert of Peru into the region of the famous Nazcar Lines, the ancient geoglyphs that are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Results Stage 9

1, Cyril Despres, France, KTM 5 hours 4 minutes 33 seconds
2, Marc Coma, Spain, KTM at 3 minutes 54 seconds
3, Joan Barreda Bort, Spain, Husqvarna at 8:44
4, Helder Rodrigues, Portugal, Yamaha at 11:44
5, Paolo Goncalves, Portugal, Husqvarna at 15:12

Other KTM

6, Pal Anders Ullevalseter, Norway, KTM at 15:43
7, Stefan Svitko, Slovakia, KTM at 16:19
8, Jordi Viladoms, Spain, KTM at 17:53
10, Gerard Farres Guell, Spain, KTM at 18:56
11, Felipe Zanol, Brazil, KTM at 22:25
12, Joan Pedrero, Spain, KTM at 27:08
13, Rubin Faria, Portugal, KTM at 31:46
14, Alessandro Botturi, Italy, KTM at 31:46
18, Daniel Schroeder, Germany, KTM at 39:04
19, Jacek Czachor, Poland, KTM at 30:03
24, Johnny Aubert, France KTM at 43:11

Overall Results after Stage Nine

1, Cyril Despres, France, KTM, 28 hours 30 minutes 17 seconds
2, Marc Coma, Spain, KTM at 2 minutes 28
3, Helder Rodrigues, Portugal, Yamaha at 59:19
4, Paolo Goncalves, Portugal, Husqvarna at 1:25:57
5, Jordi Viladoms, Spain, KTM at 1:28:43

Other KTM

6, Gerard Farres Guell, Spain, KTM at 1:33:05
7, Stefan Svitko, Slovakia, KTM at 1:33:33
8, Pal Anders Ullevalseter, Norway at 1:49:27 (40 minutes penalty)
9, Joan Pedrero, Spain, KTM 1:52:13 (15 minutes penalty)
10, Alessandro Botturi, Italy, KTM at 2:12:18
12, Rubin Faria, Portugal, KTM, 2:28:36 (40 minutes penalty)
14, Felipe Zanol, Brazil, KTM at 2:58:09 (55 minutes penalty)
15, Jacek Czachor, Poland, KTM at 3:23:29
17, Johnny Aubert, France, KTM at 3:35:56

Deeley Harley-Davidson Canada welcomes the 2012 racing season

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 11:38:00 +0000

Deeley Harley-Davidson Canada Revamps the Racing Program for the Canadian Harley-Davidson XR1200 Cup Series

Deeley Harley-Davidson Canada is proud to announce the details of the new Harley-Davidson National Race Program for 2012, designed to build on the successful debut of the Canadian Harley-Davidson XR1200 Cup Series in 2011. When participating in the National Canadian Superbike Championship this year with the Harley‑Davidson XR1200 Cup Series, both spectators and racers will be able to experience motorcycle racing at its very finest.

The Canadian Harley-Davidson XR1200 Cup Series is a spec-bike series featuring specially modified Harley‑Davidson XR1200 and XR1200X motorcycles. Vance & Hines will once again be the official kit supplier for the class. The special kit consists of a Vance & Hines exhaust system; a Fuelpak fuel management system; race bodywork including number plate, single-seat tail section, and belly pan; 17-inch front wheel with matching front fender; steering damper; oil cooler relocator; and race decal package. In addition to the Vance & Hines-supplied kit parts, racing teams will be able to upgrade their suspension, hand and foot controls, brake components, and instrumentation. These revisions to the program are outlined in detail in the 2012 CSBK rulebook (posted on www.csbk.ca). In addition to a formidable program that allows racers to pursue their passion in racing at a very affordable cost, attractive weekend purse payouts and a year-end points prize fund will be available to make the series an even sweeter deal. If racing is in your blood and your interest is sparked, then please refer to the 2012 program outline below and make sure to speak to your nearest authorized Canadian Harley-Davidson Retailer for information on how you too can secure your spot on the grid for a great racing season.

National Round Race Schedule

1. June 22 to 24, 2012 – National Shannonville Motorsport Park – Shannonville, Ontario
2. July 6 to 8, 2012 – National Autodrome – Saint-Eustache, Quebec
3. July 20 to 22, 2012 – National Atlantic Motorsports Park – Shubenacadie, Nova Scotia
4. August 10 to 12, 2012 – National Circuit Mont Tremblant – Tremblant, Quebec
5. and 6 August 24 to 26, 2012 – National Mosport International Raceway – Bowmanville, Ontario

BMW Motorrad (global) reports best sales ever - Husqvarna down

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 11:33:00 +0000

With a total of 104,286 motorcycles (prev. yr. 98,047 / +6.4%) in 2011, BMW Motorrad delivered more vehicles than ever before in its nearly 90-year history. Growth was recorded in each month of 2011.

In December, 4,232 Motorcycles were delivered worldwide, which reflects an increase of 12.4% over the same month in 2010. The total year’s result exceeds the previous high in 2007 by 1.8% (102,467). BMW Motorrad increased its market share by more than 12% in the segment above 500cc and has doubled it within the past four years.

Husqvarna delivered 9,286 motorcycles in 2011 (-23%; prev. yr. 12,066). December accounted for 1,330 deliveries (-26.1%; 1,800).

Dakar - Organizers adjust Stage 8 times

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 23:33:00 +0000

Dakar organizers adjust Stage 8 times; Coma still has overall lead

Dakar 2012 race officials have adjusted times for riders trapped in mud on Stage 8, one of which was KTM factory rider Cyril Despres. According to the adjusted times, KTM’s Marc Coma still wins the stage and leads the rally but he is now just one minute 26 seconds ahead of Despres in the overall standings.

The two KTM riders have so far dominated the 2012 edition of the rally but the stage saw Despres and other riders bogged down in mud that had not been marked on the road book that guides riders. Cyril Despres, overall leader at the half way mark of the rally had to sacrifice around 12 minutes in his efforts to extract himself from the hazard, while teammate Marc Coma was not as badly affected. It was Coma’s twentieth Dakar Stage victory in his career and the fourth in the 2012 edition. Both he and Despres are vying for their fourth Dakar title.

Speaking from the bivouac after the stage, Alex Doringer, Team Manager for the KTM Factory Team said that while KTM welcomed the race officials’ decision to compensate the riders and reinstate times, the company felt that Coma should have also had some time credited because he was also affected, if to a lesser degree than his teammate. “We welcome the fact that Cyril’s times have been reinstated, but we feel that if this decision was based on sporting fairness, then Marc’s time should also have been adjusted,” Doringer said.

The mud had occurred in between the time that the official inspection of the stage had taken place and the actual start of the stage and this was the reason it was not marked on the road book.

The eighth stage, the first after the one rest day at Copiapo in Chile included the longest timed special in the 2012 edition, taking riders 477 km. It was set between two liaison stretches that took them to 3,000 meters above sea level. Riders were on their bikes for a massive 722 km by the time they got to the finish at Antofagasta on the Chilean coast.

In the day’s standings KTM factory rider Rubin Faria was second to Coma and after the time adjustment, Portugal’s Helder Rodrigues moved into third place. Cyril Despres ranked ninth but he and Coma still dominate the overall standings. Rodrigues is third overall but he trails the two KTM riders by some 49 minutes.

Coma said at the end of the ride that he had been lucky to avoid the mud that reversed the fortunes of his teammate. “It was a very long special,” he said. “I was lucky not to lose too much time in the mud and then I saw I could open a gap, so I attacked really hard. This is my 20th special victory. That’s a nice figure but it’s not winning the special that count, it’s winning the race. And I know there is still a long week of racing ahead.” Coma had put himself in the lead at the day’s first Way Point and gradually built on it throughout the day

**Stage Eight results and standings amended after race officials adjust times

1, Marc Coma, Spain, KTM 5 hours 03:52
2, Rubin Faria, Portugal, KTM at 7:00 minutes
3, Helder Rodrigues, Portugal, Yamaha at 7:10
4, Joan Barreda Bort, Spain, Husqvarna at 8:44
5, Stefan Svitko, Slovakia, KTM at 9:09

Other KTM

6, Cyril Despres, France, KTM at 9:14
7, Joan Pedrero, Spain, KTM at 10:31
8, Jordi Viladoms, Spain, KTM at 12:35
9, Johnny Aubert, France KTM at 13:50
10, Alessandro Botturi, Italy at 15:36

Adjusted Overall Results after Stage Eight

1, Marc Coma, Spain, KTM 23 hours 24 minutes 18 seconds
2, Cyril Despres, France, KTM at 1 minute 26
3, Helder Rodrigues, Portugal, Yamaha at 49:01
4, David Casteu, France, Yamaha at 1:09:52
5, Paolo Goncalves, Portugal, Husqvarna at 1:12:11
6, Jordi Viladoms, Spain, KTM at 1:12:27

Other KTM

7, Gerard Farres Guell, Spain, KTM at 1:15:35
8, Stefan Svitko, Slovakia, KTM at 1:18:40
9, Joan Pedrero, Spain, KTM 1:26:31 (15 minutes penalty)
11, Alessandro Botturi, Italy, KTM at 1:41:58
12, Pal Anders Ullevalseter, Norway at 1:48:53 (40 minutes penalty)
13, Rubin Faria, Portugal, KTM, 1:59:31 (40 minutes penalty)
15, Felipe Zanol, Brazil, KTM at 2:22:10 (40 minutes penalty)
17, Johnny Aubert, France, KTM at 2:54.11

LeoVince USA expanding into Canada

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 13:59:00 +0000

LeoVince USA is expanding their Canadian product availability. It begins with their participation at the North American International Motorcycle Show at the Toronto International Centre Jan. 6, 7 and 8. International Centre.

LeoVince products have already been available in Canada through a distributor but they're now going to offer their product directly through their US operations.

Beginning Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2012 LeoVince USA is going to be selling and servicing Canada directly through leovinceusa.com and from its Richmond California headquarters to offer the most complete selection of their products that has ever been available to the Canadian market.

Harley-Davidson at the Calgary MMIC Motorcycle Show

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 18:30:00 +0000

The start of 2012 sees Deeley Harley-Davidson Canada and participating Harley-Davidson Retailers present the new 2012 model line-up at the Calgary Motorcycle Show this weekend, January 6 to 8, 2012, at the BMO Centre, Stampede Park in Calgary, Alberta. On just over 6,300 square feet, an impressive line-up of 2012 Harley motorcycles will be showcased, including the popular XL 883 Sportster SuperLow motorcycle, with a Canadian suggested Retail price of under $10,000, the new and versatile Dyna Switchback motorcycle, and the audacious, yet understated, limited edition CVO Road Glide Custom motorcycle.

Visitors will be able to explore the world of H-D1 Factory Customization through an interactive display. Whether we are talking blacked-out, stripped-down, or chromed-out bikes, the H-D1 Customization Program brings together all of the exclusive parts, processes, and people necessary to allow users to design, build, fit, and personalize a Harley-Davidson motorcycle to be a Custom of One. To build your dream Harley motorcycle, visit www.harleycanada.com/hd1bikebuilder.

Friday January 6 is SHE RIDES NITE, an industry celebration of women who ride and women who are interested in the sport of motorcycling. That night, all women in attendance will receive a special giveaway at the Harley-Davidson booth.

Throughout the Calgary Motorcycle Show, visitors will be able to sit on the motorcycles, interact with the displays, and receive useful information from a team of knowledgeable staff. They will also be eligible to enter the draw for a $1,000 Harley-Davidson gift card, as well as pick up a copy of the brand-new published 2012 Test Our Metal Program Calendar, which outlines when, where, and how you can test-ride the new model Harley-Davidson motorcycles for free! The calendar is also available online at www.harleycanada.com.

Calgary Motorcycle Show
BMO Centre, Stampede Park

Show Hours:

Friday, January 6: 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Saturday, January 7: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm
Sunday, January 8: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

For further information on the Calgary Motorcycle Show, please refer to
www.calgarymotorcycleshow.com.