Honda Motorcycles blog

Honda UK offers discounts through the end of October 2010

2010-09-04T18:28:40Z

Spend £50 or more with your Honda motorcycle dealer before the end of October and get £20 off.

It doesn’t matter what you buy. Maybe you need some new gloves or boots, or you fancy a new helmet. Or perhaps you’re after a new top box or some heated grips. You can even put your voucher towards having your bike serviced if you wish.

Just remember, whatever you treat yourself to, your voucher is only valid until the end of October. Get the voucher here.

American Honda Announces More Early-Release 2011 Models

2010-09-04T08:03:06Z

American Honda Announces More Early-Release 2011 Models

May 12 2010

American Honda Motor Company’s Powersports Division announced today the release of two additional new models for the 2011 model year. This pair of scooters includes the new Honda PCX™ and the always popular Ruckus®.

“We’ve enjoyed tremendous success with our line of scooters,” said Powersports Press Manager Bill Savino, “and now along with the 2011 Ruckus we’re introducing the brand-new PCX, a very stylish 125cc scooter that adds even more depth to Honda’s scooter line.”

Additional information will be released regarding other new 2011 models in months to come. More detailed information and images of Honda’s model line can be found on powersports.honda.com or see your local Honda powersports dealer.

• Introducing the all-new Honda PCX: A fun, stylish ride that’s also economical to operate

Meet the 2011 PCX, a stylish and decidedly sporty new mid-sized scooter that really delivers on routine errands, short commutes and even enjoyable little getaways. Its modern good looks combine with easy handling to create a practical yet fun riding companion. Thanks to its strong-running 125cc liquid-cooled fuel-injected four-stroke engine and a capable chassis, the PCX serves well for getting around town and even for short backroad weekend adventures. An electric starter and Honda’s easy-to-use V-Matic automatic transmission make this new scooter a snap to operate. With comfortable seating to accommodate the rider and passenger, plus a surprisingly large under-seat storage area that’s big enough to swallow a full-face helmet and more, the PCX serves as an accommodating package that rolls economical transportation and a fun-filled ride all into one. Available in Pearl White and Candy Red. Price: TBD

• A machine that’s too cool to know it’s a scooter: Honda Ruckus

Here’s a bare-bones example of two-wheeled transportation that’s way too cool to call itself a scooter. Fully equipped to battle urban traffic with a thrifty liquid-cooled 49cc engine, an electric starter and Honda’s easy-to-use V-Matic automatic transmission, this welterweight is ready to raise a Ruckus—the perfect name for a handy and tough in-town runabout that packs plenty of attitude. Available in Orange/Black and Black. Price: TBD

2011 Honda CRF450R Specifications

2010-09-04T08:01:54Z

Long regarded as the bike of choice in the big-bore motocross division, the 2011 CRF450R incorporates improvements that will help this bike retain its premier standing. The prodigious powerband is now even stronger thanks to more low-end pull and midrange grunt along with enhanced throttle response via a new throttle body. Revised suspension linkage and settings yield improved control, increased ride plushness and enhanced rear-wheel traction. A new Honda Progressive Steering Damper (HPSD) produces even better tracking traits than before, and a new muffler meets the 94-decibel sound level required by some racing organizations in 2011. All this and more make the 2011 CRF450R a shoo-in to maintain its dominant role among open-class MX bikes.

New for 2011

Revised engine tuning and new 46mm throttle body increase low-end and midrange power and give improved throttle response.
Front fork features a lighter cartridge cylinder and all-new valving for improved control and increased ride plushness.
Revised shock valving yields improved control and increased rear wheel traction.
New suspension linkage produces improved chassis balance and increased rear wheel traction in rough-track conditions.
Honda Progressive Steering Damper (HPSD) features larger piston diameter (20mm to 24mm) for improved tracking traits.
Redesigned muffler lowers sound emissions to 94 dB.

2011 Honda CRF450R Specifications

July 20 2010

Model:	CRF450R
Engine Type:	449cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke
Bore and Stroke:	96mm x 62.1mm
Compression ratio:	12.0:1
Valve Train:	Unicam, four-valve; 36mm intake, titanium; 30mm exhaust, steel
Induction:	PGM-FI, 50mm throttle body
Ignition:	Full transistor with electronic advance
Transmission:	Close-ratio five-speed
Final Drive:	#520 chain; 13T/48T
Suspension	Front: 48mm inverted KYB Air-Oil-Separate (AOS) with rebound and compression damping adjustability; 12.2 inches travel Rear: Pro-Link KYB single shock with spring preload, rebound damping adjustability, and compression damping adjustment separated into low-speed and high-speed; 12.5 inches travel
Brakes	Front: Single 240mm disc with twin-piston caliper Rear: Single 240mm disc
Tires	Front: 80/100-21 Rear: 120/80-19
Wheelbase:	58.7 inches
Rake (Caster angle):	26° 52′
Trail:	114.2mm (4.5 inches)
Seat Height:	37.6 inches
Ground Clearance:	13.1 inches
Fuel Capacity:	1.5 gallons
Color:	Red
Curb Weight*:	238 lbs
*Includes all standard equipment, required fluids and full tank of fuel–ready to ride. Consult owner’s manual for optional parts. Specifications are preliminary and subject to change.

2011 Honda ST1300P ABS Features & Benefits

2010-09-04T07:58:00Z

Law enforcement agencies can now experience what other Honda riders have known all along: Nothing matches Honda’s legendary performance, quality and reliability.

Features/Benefits

Unique Features

ABS combines with Combined Braking System (CBS) for a wide range of braking and steering control. ABS features an electric-motor-driven modulator that gives quick, precise braking-pressure adjustments and smooth ABS operation. The system incorporates an integrated electronic control unit (ECU) controller, self-diagnostics with an interactive ECU test function and automatic protection against system failure (see Technology Section).
CBS uses a second master cylinder and a proportional control valve (PCV) to couple the three-piston calipers of the dual-disc front and single-disc rear brakes. Using the front brake lever activates the outer two pistons of the front calipers and the two outer pistons of the rear caliper. Rear pedal engagement activates the center piston of the rear brake caliper and the center pistons of the front calipers, and a delay valve slows initial front brake response to minimize front-end dive.
A motor-driven adjustable windscreen offers 7.4 inches and 13 degrees of adjustability for greater wind protection and touring comfort. A thumb-operated push-button on the left handlebar operates the windscreen motor. An additional 2.3 inches of manual adjustment is possible by repositioning the windscreen on the mounting brackets.
New special patrol speedometer is graduated in 2-mph increments above 10 mph.
Adjustable three-position dual-density solo seat.
Handlebars raised 25mm and width increased 13.5mm for rider comfort.
Specialized brackets for lights, sirens, antenna mount and radio/electronic equipment.
Rear component cover for electronics weather protection.
Left and right lower engine guards have built-in brackets for mounting accessories.
Right-handlebar-mounted multi-function switch controls.
On/off headlight switch.
8mm side fairing air-deflector set.

Engine/Drivetrain

Compact, powerful 1261cc DOHC 90-degree V-4 engine with an oversquare bore and stroke of 78mm x 66mm and longitudinal engine mounting improves power flow and drivetrain efficiency.
The ST1300P’s low overall center of gravity contributes to improved low-speed handling. The 360-degree crank contributes to a very broad powerband. Two engine counterbalancers virtually eliminate primary and secondary vibration. Both gear-driven counterbalancer shafts are installed in the lower crankcase to the left side of the crankshaft. The first shaft is driven directly by the crankshaft at a 2:1 ratio. The second shaft is positioned below the first and is driven in the opposite direction by the first balancer shaft’s drive gear. The combination of these two balancers ensures a supremely comfortable ride.
Aluminum-composite cylinder sleeves are high-pressure-formed from sintered aluminum powder impregnated with ceramic and graphite. The composite sleeves provide better wear resistance and superior heat dissipation compared with conventional sleeves.
Large 31mm intake valves and 27mm exhaust valves feed a combustion chamber with a 10.8:1 compression ratio.
Direct shim-under-bucket valve actuation system ensures high-rpm durability and allows 16,000-mile valve-maintenance intervals.
Four 36mm throttle bodies.
High-pressure Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) delivers fuel at 50 psi into each injector (see Technology Section).
Fuel is delivered through eight holes in each injector, producing a very fine spray and a highly combustible air/fuel charge for maximum combustion efficiency and power.
PGM-FI combines a sophisticated throttle sensor, advanced 3-D digital fuel-injection and ignition mapping and precisely metered fuel delivery to produce smooth and linear throttle response.
ECU-controlled closed-loop emissions control system utilizes two oxygen sensors to constantly deliver a precise air/fuel mixture, while two exhaust catalyzers further reduce emissions of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and oxides of nitrogen.
Auto-enriching system is integrated into PGM-FI module, optimizing the air/fuel mixture on cold starts and eliminating the need for a manual choke.
4-into-2 stainless-steel exhaust system features a pair of attractive, triangular-section 5.4-liter mufflers with stainless-steel heat shields.
Dampers on the transmission mainshaft, clutch and driveshaft reduce noise, vibration and driveline lash.
High-output 660-watt air-cooled alternator is relocated between the cylinder banks, contributing to a shorter and more compact engine design.
U-shaped aluminum radiator has excellent cooling capacity; a ring-type fan draws air through the radiator at low speeds to ensure stable operating temperatures for consistent performance and long engine life.
Sturdy eight-plate hydraulic clutch.
Cassette-type five-speed transmission features gear ratios that allow for quicker acceleration and excellent roll-on performance.
Quiet and reliable shaft-drive system is virtually maintenance-free.

Chassis/Suspension

Rigid aluminum upper triple-clamp and a 45mm Honda Multi-Action System (HMAS) cartridge front fork provide excellent suspension control in a wide range of riding conditions.
The rear suspension incorporates a single shock, which mounts directly onto the swingarm. The shock offers 1.2 inches of spring preload adjustability.
Large 310mm stainless-steel floating front brake discs and 316mm rear disc for ultimate stopping power.
Wheels are three-spoke, U-section cast aluminum. The 5.0-inch-wide rear wheel sports a large, low-profile 170/60ZR-17 radial tire. The 3.5-inch-wide front wheel carries a 120/70ZR-18 radial tire.

Additional Features

Full-coverage bodywork offers superb wind and weather protection, low noise and superior high-speed aerodynamics.
Integrated lockable and detachable saddlebags hold 35 liters each. The saddlebags contain straps to limit bag opening to 90 degrees to better secure the contents. The straps are easily unbuckled when the bags are dismounted, permitting full access.
Rugged, plastic-covered body-protector stays extend outward to protect the bodywork in case of a tip-over.
Dual-section fuel tank places 5.5 gallons of fuel in the conventional tank location with an additional 2.2 gallons located in a sub-tank located low in the chassis. This results in an increase in fuel capacity and creates an even weight distribution for fuel.
Electric fuel pump operates inside the sub-tank, providing consistent fuel pressure for the PGM-FI system.
Headlight features dual lenses with twin-filament H4 low/high-beam bulbs and multi-reflectors.
A convenient push button located on the left side of the fairing electrically adjusts the headlight angle over a 2.5-degree range.
A locking left-side fairing pocket offers the carrying capacity of an automobile console; a weather-resistant vinyl flap covers the right-side pocket.
Breakaway rearview mirrors minimize damage in the event of a tip-over.
Convenient centerstand assist-lever folds neatly away when not in use.
Integrated front and rear turn signals.
Integrated ignition switch/fork lock. A single ignition key operates all locks.
Non-transferable three-year, unlimited-mileage limited warranty.

2011 Honda CRF250R Specifications

2010-09-04T07:57:04Z

Despite winning numerous comparison tests and awards in 2010, the CRF250R enters the new season sporting a number of improvements that will help it continue its winning ways. A new Honda Progressive Steering Damper (HPSD) with a larger, 24mm damper piston aids tracking precision, and new suspension settings front and rear help give this stellar-handling machine even better chassis balance for 2011. Changes to engine tuning now give the CRF250R a stronger bottom-end and midrange hit, and this model also features a new muffler that meets the 94-decibel sound level required by some racing organizations in 2011.

New for 2011

New engine tuning produces added response and midrange power production.
Honda Progressive Steering Damper (HPSD) features larger piston diameter (20mm to 24mm) for improved tracking traits.
Revised fork valving offers improved balance and bottoming resistance.
New shock valving helps deliver optimum chassis balance and improved suspension action.
Redesigned muffler lowers sound emissions to 94 dB.

2011 Honda CRF250R Specifications

July 20 2010

Model:	CRF250R
Engine Type:	249cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke
Bore and Stroke:	76.8mm x 53.8mm
Compression ratio:	13.2:1
Valve Train:	Unicam, four-valve; 30.5mm intake, titanium; 25mm exhaust, steel
Induction:	PGM-FI, 50mm throttle body
Ignition:	Full transistor with electronic advance
Transmission:	Close-ratio five-speed
Final Drive:	#520 chain; 13T/49T
Suspension	Front: 48mm inverted Showa 16-position rebound and 16-position compression damping adjustability; 12.2 inches travel Rear: Pro-Link Showa single shock with spring preload, 17-position rebound damping adjustability, and compression damping adjustment separated into low-speed (13 positions) and high-speed (3.5 turns); 12.5 inches travel
Brakes	Front: Single 240mm disc with twin-piston caliper Rear: Single 240mm disc
Tires	Front: Dunlop 742FA 80/100-21 Rear: Dunlop D756 100/90-19
Wheelbase:	58.6 inches
Rake (Caster Angle):	27° 12′
Trail:	117mm (4.6 inches)
Seat Height:	37.6 inches
Ground Clearance:	12.8 inches
Fuel Capacity:	1.5 gallons
Color:	Red
Curb Weight*:	227 lbs
*Includes all standard equipment, required fluids and full tank of fuel–ready to ride. Consult owner’s manual for optional parts. Specifications are preliminary and subject to change.

OrangeCountyLeather.com Revs Interest with Quality Head-to-Toe Leatherwear

2010-08-30T18:23:29Z

Web entrepreneur Judi Smedley is pleased to announce the publication of her brand-new website, www.OrangeCountyLeather.com. Making its debut just this month, the online business was developed to provide a premium selection of luxurious leatherwear in styles for men, women and children.

“I’ve been riding since before I was born, literally; my mother hopped on her Harley, headed to the hospital, parked in front of the entrance, went inside and announced she was having a baby. When it was time to leave the hospital, my dad was there on his Harley to pick us up and I rode nestled between them on the way home,” Smedley said.

At OrangeCountyLeather.com, shoppers are invited to browse an extensive collection of all-leather biker apparel that encompasses essentials like jackets and vests for men, ladies and children, as well as, coats, shirts, pants, skirts, shorts, boots, gloves, bandanas, skull caps, face masks, caps & hats, wallets & purses, fanny packs, saddle bags, tool bags and motorcycle accessories. An assortment of non-leather accessories such as T-shirts, denim apparel, helmets, goggles & sunglasses, knives and small motorcycle tool kits may also be purchased.

“Many people simply enjoy riding but don’t know where to journey or who to link up with. I found myself in this conundrum once upon a time when I started riding regularly as an adult; fortunately, I synched up with the Harley Owners Group, which organizes dozens of trips annually in national and statewide destinations,” Smedley explained.

Keep an eye out for new merchandise as Smedley will continue to update her website with new products. Just on the horizon, shoppers can look forward to jewelry, pins and patches intended to jazz up the biker look with accents to personalize leather motorcycle jackets and other apparel. And be sure to visit the site’s frequently-asked-questions page to read-up on the proper methods to clean and care for leather.

To learn more about the specific products available at OrangeCountyLeather.com, visit the website’s new blog, www.OCLeatherReview.com. This interactive platform will also be used to provide information about the Harley Owners Group and the statewide and national rides they organize.

“As an avid motorcyclist, I’m passionate about life and the thrill of the open road; therefore, I’m dedicated to providing the best quality to ensure customer satisfaction and safety,” Smedley said.

Edelweiss Bike Travel

2010-08-30T18:02:12Z

Edelweiss Bike Travel is the worlds leading company in guided motorcycle tours. When they started in 1980 with the first scouting motorcycle tours a whole new concept in motorcycle touring was born. Today you can experience our way of motorcycle touring on more than 47 different tour destinations in Europe, America, Africa, Asia and New Zealand.

When the first scouting tours took place in 1980 the team was a small one: Coral and Werner Wachter. Since then the team has grown.

I had a look at their Central Europe tours: yummy!

DATES: June, July, August, September
START/FINISH: Munich
DURATION: 10 day vacation, 8 riding days
ROUTE: Total distance 1160-1370 miles (1870- 2200 km).
Daily rides 73 – 175 miles (116- 280 km).
On good asphalt roads.
ACCOMMODATION: Comfortable middle-class hotels with a special Alpine touch.
REST DAY: Bolzano
SPECIAL FEATURES: The route includes all famous mountain passes in the Western Alps.
Alps Riding Training: On this tour we optionally offer a full-day training and safety course.
HIGHLIGHTS: Lucerne, Matterhorn, Lugano, Lakes Maggiore and Como, Lake Garda, Dolomites, roads and passes of the Western Alps

the Alps: the perfect play ground for demanding motorcyclists
5 countries in 8 days – Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, Italy
Motorcycle Roads for every taste: narrow and curvy or wide and sweeping
on two wheels we climb the highest and most spectacular mountain passes of Switzerland

More info here.

Route des Grandes Alpes – Col de L’Iseran 2010 video

2010-08-20T19:27:33Z

Ok, got some more videos from my 8118km Europe tour:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=gT8IH6HXVQ4

and

www.youtube.com/watch?v=M-lFYQO09R4

Free Bikers Week, Hunedoara 2010

2010-08-15T20:04:41Z

This weekend I’ve been to Free Bikers Week, in Hunedoara. Small party but very well organized! Good food, good people, good location!

Getting there was a different story… It was around 40 Celsius – my brain was feeling like soup! As usual, I didn’t take the shortest road (click to see the full map): Bucharest, Pitesti, Ramnicu Valcea (here I visited a very interesting salt mine), Targu Jiu, Petrosani, Hateg, Hunedoara).

Some pictures:

- competitions (got a little late):

Everybody got a yummy beans plate:

Nice bike:

And some videos:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=2fH8PqzQHTQ

The bikers team from Craiova managed to pull 38 people in that Jeep:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcEM3TI3cKA

And later that evening we got a very nice surprise: the knights from Hunedoara:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=ixU8DVP9RFk

And another one (I’ve used my phone so sorry if that’s not so great):

www.youtube.com/watch?v=cSfzIPXy-cI

And the last one:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFkbA7EMSvA

Next morning I took the road back – it was nice and cool for the first part:

Hill Climbing Competition, Sibiu 2010

2010-08-02T19:15:58Z

This weekend I was at the Hill Climbing competition in Sibiu 2010. I have to say before anything, that I knew Sibiu was most famous for the Red Bull Romaniacs which is World’s ultimate Hard Enduro Rallye. I didn’t even know that we do hill climbing in Romania, but it seems that we do, even if it’s a new thing.

Got a few pictures and a couple of videos:

and the videos: