Roadcarvin - Because the ride is everything™

2011-2012 International Motorcycle Show Schedule

Dwight Domonkos — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 21:24:36 +0000

The Progressive International Motorcycle Shows kicks off the season this weekend in San Mateo, California November 18th - 20th.

The 2011-2012 International Motorcycle Shows 12-city tour schedule is as follows:

November 18-20, 2011 - San Mateo, CA
December 2-4, 2011 - Dallas, TX
December 9-11, 2011 - Long Beach, CA
December 16-18, 2011 - Seattle, WA
January 6-8, 2012 - Novi, MI
January 13-15, 2012 - Washington D.C.
January 20-22, 2012 - New York, NY
January 27-29, 2012 - Cleveland, OH
February 3-5, 2012 - Minneapolis, MN
February 10-12, 2012 - Chicago, IL
February 24-26, 2012 - Charlotte, NC
March 14-17, 2012 - Daytona Beach, FL

For more information on shows check out 2011 Progressive International Motorcycle Show.

Must-have gear: Bungee cargo net with adjustable ABS plastic hooks

Michael Curry — Sat, 23 Jul 2011 16:34:43 +0000

CargoLoc Cargo Net 15 inch by 15 inch by 6 hooks

I've used these on my bikes for years. I keep a couple under the seat, in the storage compartment of the rear cowl.

Most cheap bungee nets have wire hooks with plastic coatings, which can wear through to the metal, or, the metal ends protrude out of the plastic coating, which is a great way to put a deep gouge in your bike's paint.

Quality bungee nets have ABS plastic hooks that can be removed and replaced, allowing you to adjust their location for optimal placement. Since they're made of plastic, they won't do any damage to your bike's painted or metal surfaces.

I was able to buy a few of them at the local Wal-Mart in years past, but I haven't been able to find them lately (the local Wal-Mart carries the cheap wire hook version these days), so I buy them online.

Buy two, they're cheap! On Amazon.com: CargoLoc 84060 Motorcycle/ATV Cargo Net 15 inch by 15 inch by 6 hooks

Captain America Rides A 1942 Harley Davidson WLA Liberator

Dwight Domonkos — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 21:46:39 +0000

TWO AMERICAN ICONS REUNITE TO SALUTE THE FORCES OF GOOD

Harley-Davidson® and Marvel Studio’s Captain America Join Forces to Defend Freedom

On July 22, Marvel Studios releases Captain America: The First Avenger, who defends freedom and justice for all on a Harley-Davidson® WLA motorcycle.

During World War II, Harley-Davidson produced and dispatched approximately 70,000 motorcycles overseas to support the war effort. The motorcycle was affectionately known as the “Liberator” by U.S. Service Men and Women.

“Both Captain America and our motorcycles are great symbols of freedom.” said Dino Bernacchi, Harley-Davidson’s director of Marketing Communications.

About the Captain America Harley-Davidson “Liberator”

Harley-Davidson collaborated with Marvel Studios to create five motorcycles for the Captain America: The First Avenger film, which traces Captain America’s origins as a World War II era Super Hero who rode a military motorcycle as a means of transportation.

The Motor Company coordinated the modification of the current day Harley-Davidson® Cross Bones® model to resemble an original 1942 WLA Army motorcycle. The Motor Company also worked with Marvel Studios to recreate additional parts, such as an ammunition box and leather gun scabbard, to ensure the motorcycles looked as authentic as possible.

Three bikes were used in the film for riding and stunts, and two were reserved for a scene in which Captain America lifts a motorcycle over his head at a USO appearance.

Two of the motorcycles will become part of the Harley-Davidson Museum’s permanent collection and one will be featured in a special temporary display at museum showcasing a sampling of items from the movie, including a Captain America leather “rescue jacket,” his signature ‘A’ helmet, and shield he carried in the film.

H-D® Free the World Promotion

To celebrate this reunion, Harley-Davidson Motor Company has created the “H-D® Free the World” promotion, which features two grand prizes. One lucky U.S. military member, as well as a non-military member, will each win the opportunity to work with Marvel and the Motor Company to customize their own one-of-a-kind new Harley-Davidson Sportster® 1200 Custom motorcycle in Harley-Davidson’s hometown of Milwaukee, Wis.

Each of the grand prize winners of the “H-D Free the World” promotion will travel to Milwaukee to create the Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom of their dreams at one of the Motor Company’s production facilities. The promotion also features unique “first prizes” for one U.S. military member, as well as non-military member to attend a Harley-Davidson Academy of Motorcycling Riders Edge® class to learn how to ride alongside a friend.

Visit Harley-Davidson’s promotional Web site to view never-before seen footage that was produced in collaboration with Marvel. Legal residents of the United States who are at least 18 years of age can enter the “H-D Free the World” promotion through December 1, 2011. H-D Captain America

Captain America - 1942 Harley Davidson WLA Liberator

Dwight Domonkos — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 21:34:35 +0000

Captain America rides a 1942 Harley Davidson WLA "Liberator" in the Marvel Studios movie being released 7.22.11.

Click the thumbnail or click here to see the full size image.Captain America rides a 1942 Harley Davidson WLA "Liberator" in the Marvel Studios movie being released 7.22.11.

Fulmer AF-6B Helmet Product Review

Michael Curry — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 15:14:42 +0000

The Fulmer AF-6B full-face helmet with iShade

The AF-6B full-face helmet is DOT approved, and sports an internal smoke-tinted shield (bearing the trademarked 'iShade' name). The 6B's suggested retail price is $149.95.

Fulmer AF-6B full-face helmet in flat black: Photo courtesy of Fulmer Helmets.

Basic Features

iShade™ retractable internal sun shield
Optically correct, quick release, clear external shield
Adjustable forehead ventilation
Includes Fulmer helmet sack
Rear exhaust diffusers
UV protective clear coated paint
Ultra plush removable/washable interior
Padded D-Ring retention system
DOT approved

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Initial check-out

First impressions: The AF-6B finish quality is very good. It feels fairly light weight. The padding and liner quality is good, and I found no visible stitching problems, blemishes or other flaws.

The 6B's styling and trim is reminiscent of characters from Transformers–the vents and trim are silver plastic, and the chinguard trim is in a 'V' shape, and the overall effect is a combination of sharp angles and rounded lines.

The helmet includes a nicely made drawstring bag for protection while you aren't wearing the helmet. This is a nice touch, as a helmet bag helps protect the shield and the helmet's finish.

The AF-6B I choose has a high-gloss black painted finish with silver logos, vents, and trim.

A closer look

Face Shield

The AF-6B shield features a six-position detent; the detent action is stiff (at least when new). You have to push up on a small tab at the lower front of the shield in order to open it. I was able to remove and replace the shield fairly quickly on the first try.

Breath Guard

The breath guard is made of a stiff (but not completely hard) plastic. If you have a largish nose, the guard can press against your nose at times, which can be irritating. I was able to rotate the helmet up a few degrees to fix this problem, though I wondered if it would be a problem while riding (all helmets will shift a bit during the ride). The breath guard can be removed and replaced with minimal effort.

Ventilation controls

The front vent looks like it'll catch a fair amount of airflow. The vent is 'V'-shaped sliding panel, which might be a bit difficult to operate when wearing gloves. Push up to close, down to open.
The two top front vents are small sliding covers. Slide towards the outside of the helmet to open, inside to close. The openings are fairly small. There are no intermediate stops to help with fine adjustments, so you'll probably open or close them completely while riding.
The two rear vents are always open.

Ride test

Ventilation

The vents work reasonably well. I noticed a reasonable level of cooling while riding on warm days.

Wind noise

There was a noticeable “whistle” between 35 and 55 mph, which seemed to be more pronounced on cross-winds. There was a fair amount of 'wind roar' in the area below the ears at the base of the helmet while riding a low-fairing sport bike (nothing unusual here, the low fairings on sport bikes seem to direct a lot of air to the shoulder area at normal speeds and riding position). Overall, wind noise (without hearing protection) was bearable for short trips – but you should wear hearing protection on longer trips.

Vision

Vision was unrestricted. The helmet body was just barely visible at the limits of side vision when peering to the left or right. My impression is vision is not impaired in any significant way by the helmet body.

Shield clarity and distortion

The shield quality is quite good–crystal clear and from what I can tell, absolutely distortion-free–this surprised me as I'm always expecting some distortion when trying budget helmets. Face shield quality is definitely improving.

iShade™

The iShade™ internal shaded shield is a nice touch. There is a small rocker lever at the left side base of the helmet, just under your left ear. It's easy to engage the iShade™ shield during riding, just push back on the rocker and the iShade™ shield pops down. Push forward and it pops up, out of sight. The iShade™ works well, reducing glare when desired.

Comfort

The AF-6B was comfortable on short rides. On longer rides, I felt the internal padding pressing against my ears, mostly on the left side. It became more noticeable (and irritating) after about an hour. It seemed like it was a minor thing during initial testing, but after a while it became a major concern. The helmet was a bit snug for me, so the ear pressure may be due to my fat head or big ears. If you are considering an AF-6B helmet, you might want to choose a slightly larger size than you normally wear, or be sure to test-wear the helmet for a while in the store before deciding on a size.

Conclusion

The AF-6B offers attractive features, good fit and finish, and attractive styling at a reasonable price. The styling is a combination of angles and rounded lines, which appealed to some but not others.

The main drawbacks during testing included moderate wind noise and a tight fit around the ears, causing some discomfort during longer rides.

For more information, please visit Fulmer Helmets.

Acknowlegements

Thanks to Fulmer Helmets for providing review materials and information.

References

Motorcycle Helmets article
What You Should Know About Motorcycle Helmets

2011 Ducati Diaval Carbon - Right Rear 3/4

Dwight Domonkos — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 07:16:37 +0000

2011 Ducati Diavel Carbon in "black carbon".

Click the thumbnail or click here to see the full size image.2011 Ducati Diavel Carbon in "black carbon".

2011 Ducati Diaval Carbon - Left Side

Dwight Domonkos — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 07:13:19 +0000

2011 Ducati Diavel Carbon.

Click the thumbnail or click here to see the full size image.2011 Ducati Diavel Carbon.

2011 Ducati Diaval - Front Left 3/4

Dwight Domonkos — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 07:08:33 +0000

2011 Ducati Diavel Carbon.

Click the thumbnail or click here to see the full size image.2011 Ducati Diavel Carbon.

2011 Ducati Diaval - Front Left 3/4

Dwight Domonkos — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 06:58:05 +0000

2011 Ducati Diavel in Ducati Red.

Click the thumbnail or click here to see the full size image.2011 Ducati Diavel in Ducati Red.

Cardo Scala Rider Q2 Multiset Review

Michael Curry — Thu, 21 Oct 2010 05:01:50 +0000

Cardo Systems - SCALA RIDER Multiset Q2

Introduction

The Scala Rider Q2 MultiSet is a Bluetooth-compatible communications system offering two-way rider communication, ability to take and make mobile phone calls, GPS integration, and MP3 player connectivity (mobile phone, GPS, and MP3 require user-supplied compatible equipment).

Main Features

Full-duplex operation–no need to wait for your "buddy" rider to stop talking in order to be heard
Voice connect capability
Mobile phone and GPS pairing options
Input source prioritization
MP3 player connectivity
Integrated FM radio with six channel presets (user-settable)
Optional passenger intercom (requires additional headsets)
Weather-resistant finish
Two speakers (monaural)
Flexible microphone boom
Automatic Gain Control (AGC) to increase/reduce volume according to ambient noise
Flexible mounting options

First impressions

The Scala Rider Q2 MultiSet is packaged in a high-quality simulated 'carbon-fibre' finish box. The various components are nestled in two stacked plastic trays, providing protection during shipment and making it easy to find the various components while you install the Scala Rider Q2 on your helmets.

The package includes carry pouches for the main electronic control unit. This is a nice touch as the Scala Rider Q2 control unit is easily detached from the helmet mount, making it a snap to take the unit with you when leaving your helmets on your bike.

Quality

The Scala Rider Q2 is light weight and has a black rubberized water-resistant finish. Despite its light weight, the components are sturdy and well-made. The fit and finish is very good.

The Scala Rider Q2 is water-resistant (though not waterproof). The manual states that the unit is designed to be used in light rain or snow (!) conditions.

The charging jack and volume buttons are at the rear of the unit, and the charging jack is protected by an attached, tight-fitting rubber plug.

Documentation/User manual

The user manual contains an introduction and overview of the system capabilities and orientation diagrams, set-up and installation procedures, and operation instructions.

Set-up and Installation

Pairing

The units are 'paired' and ready for use right out of the box, so there's no real set-up needed if you just want to use them as a bike-to-bike or passenger intercom, which is probably the most common scenario.

If you have other Bluetooth devices such as a mobile phone or GPS unit, you can pair your Scala Rider Q2 to your device prior to or after installation. The user manual covers pairing, which is a simple process.

Installation

The speakers' velcro backs make mounting simple but you might need to move them around to get adequate ear clearance. Finding a comfortable position required a few tries. You might have to get used to feeling the speakers against your ears if your helmet is snug around the ear area.

The preferred installation method is to use the included clamp device. A self-adhesive "glue plate" is provided as a back-up method if the preferred method can't be used on your helmet. The glue plate mounting is permanent (meaning: once mounted, it can't be easily removed, so you'd better position the mounting plate correctly the first time!)
The speaker wires need to be tucked in behind helmet padding or trim. A little extra effort here is called for–dangling speaker wires could catch on something while riding.

Riding impressions

Can you hear me now?

A quick pre-ride check verifies that I can hear and be heard by the other Q2-using rider.

Hitting the street for the first time with the Q2, it seemed strange to converse with someone on another motorcycle. In my experience, motorcycle riding has always been a relatively solitary experience, even when accompanying other riders. You get used not being able to speak to or hear the other riders, so you're in your own world most of the time. The Scala Rider Q2 can open up a whole new world.

After getting over the 'strangeness' of being able to hold a conversation while riding, I quickly got used to chatting while riding. I'm no longer 'riding alone' though the other rider is mere feet away–no need to use hand gestures or slow to a crawl for a quick on-bike conference. Conversing this way quickly became completely natural sooner than I expected. With the Scala Rider Q2 you can call out scenic views or road hazards, or discuss an upcoming rest stop while on the road.

Cardo Scala Rider Q2 Side View: Showing main control buttons

Cardo Scala Rider Q2 Rear View: Showing volume up/down, power jack, and MP3 player input port

Gloved hand use

The control buttons require a firm push to operate. The volume up/down buttons, which are smallish oval-shaped buttons on the back of the unit, take a bit of groping to find while riding.

The controls (though easy to locate once I became familiar with the unit) were a bit more difficult to operate while wearing thick winter gloves, though the difficulty diminished with increased familiarity.

Noise

I was able to hear the other rider's helmet noise when using the Scala Rider Q2. The severity depends on microphone placement, riding speed, helmet design, wind conditions, and motorcycle type (fully-faired touring bikes offer greater rider protection against wind noise than a sportbike or standard motorcycle), among other things.

In our tests, background noise didn't cause much trouble below approximately 70 MPH, above that speed communications became increasingly garbled, though at 70 MPH I was able to understand the other rider's words. Greater speed usually translates into greater wind, engine, and road noise, so you will probably want to reduce speed if you need to communicate using the Scala Rider Q2.

The automatic volume control increases volume as ambient noise increases, letting you focus on the ride rather than constantly tweaking the volume controls.

The voice actuation feature is nice, though it failed to operate as expected on several occasions. Not to worry, though, because a quick tap of the Ctl button brings the unit to life.

Mobile phone use

If you are so inclined, you can take a call while on the road. Personally, I'd prefer not to take calls while riding but the feature did come in handy when I was riding to work, and was expecting an important call. Slowing down and upping the caution level is advisable when taking a call, to reduce wind noise and to help avoid costly mistakes.

FM Radio

The integrated FM radio is a nice feature, though I think it's less useful if you are traveling long-distance or to remote rural areas. If you do most of your riding in the same general area, you'll probably stick with a few of your favorite stations–daily commuters might find this feature most valuable.

The radio has six user-settable channel presets. Tapping the [connect] button moves to the next preset (and a sequence of soft tones coming through the speakers indicates the preset number – the tone repeats three times for preset three, for instance).

Finding a new station requires that you hold the up or down volume buttons for three seconds for each search. Storing the newly found station as a preset requires that you tap the [connect] button within 20 seconds of finding the new station. Finding and storing new channels in the preset memories can be a bit frustrating (and certainly a distraction while riding), so if you need to search frequently due to faint signals for shifting terrain, I'd opt to avoid the radio feature when not in an urban setting – the MP3 player connectivity may be a better choice in those situations. Which leads us to...

MP3 Playback Connectivity

The Scala Rider Q2 includes an input jack for MP3 player connectivity using the included cable. The system provides monaural sound from small speakers, so I expected adequate but not spectacular sound quality. Testing with my iPod Touch confirmed my expectations. Still, it's nice to be able to listen to your MP3 collection if you desire.

Conclusion

I liked the Scala Rider Q2 and its features, though most of the time I found myself using it as a simple 'buddy' intercom. The ability to take an incoming cell phone call makes this a very handy accessory for those who want to stay in touch while on the road. The automatic prioritization of input sources makes the headset all the more useful (and usable).

The Scala Rider Q2 is a great accessory and is definitely useful (and used) during our rides. It would make a great gift for any couple who ride together, whether on one bike or two.

More Information

Buy the Scala Rider Q2 Multiset on Amazon

CARDO SYSTEMS:

http://www.cardosystems.com/
100 High Tower Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15205 (USA)
Phone: +1 412 788-4533
US toll-free: 800 488-0363
Fax: +1 412 788-0270
sales@cardosystems.com

Disclosure: Cardo Systems provided the Scala Rider Q2 MultiSet used in this review.

Harley-Davidson Q3 2010 income climbs as sales slip

Michael Curry — Tue, 19 Oct 2010 22:09:56 +0000

Harley-Davidson's 3rd quarter 2010 financial results are in: income climbs as sales drop. Net income totaled $88.8 million, or 38 cents per share, which compares with income of $26.5 million, or 11 cents per share for the same period last year.

H-D reported a 7.7 percent decrease in motorcycle sales worldwide, including a 9.4 percent decrease in the U.S.

The company posted a net profit of 40 cents per share from continuing operations. Revenue fell 2 percent to $1.09 billion.

2011 Harley-Davidson New Model Announcements

Michael Curry — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 15:00:48 +0000

2011 Harley-Davidson FLTRU ROAD GLIDE® ULTRA

2011 H-D FLTRU Road Glide® Ultra

2011 FLTRU ROAD GLIDE® ULTRA Overview

The Road Glide® Ultra combines the light handling and wind-splitting aerodynamics of a frame-mounted fairing with a full complement of touring appointments for the devoted long distance rider and passenger. The innovative Harley-Davidson® Touring chassis is based on a single-spar, rigid backbone frame and a stout swingarm developed to withstand the demands of long-haul touring riders and today's powerful engines.
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2011 Harley-Davidson XR1200X

2011 H-D XR1200X - Side View

2011 XR1200X Overview

The XR1200X is Harley-Davidson® Sportster performance honed to its finest edge. Equipped with fully-adjustable Showa® front and rear suspension components, the 2011 XR1200X can be dialed in to match rider weight, riding style and road conditions. The XR1200X combines this premium suspension with enhanced front brakes and the responsive punch of a high-compression, 1200cc Evolution® V-Twin engine in a dynamic, street-performance motorcycle.

With a tank and tail section designed to evoke the legendary Harley-Davidson XR750 - the king of the gritty American flat-track scene - the XR1200X puts its mechanical character on display. Wide flat-track bars and rearset footpegs position an assertive rider for active control. The XR1200X has a blacked-out powertrain and exhaust, revised tank graphics, and black wheels with an orange rim pinstripe.

2011 Harley-Davidson SuperLow™

2011 H-D SUPERLOW™ - Right Side

2011 SuperLow™ Overview

The SuperLow™ is easy to own and fun to ride. Balanced and responsive handling help rider and machine glide through corners with smooth confidence. The combination of wheel size, radial tires and front-end geometry contribute to outstanding maneuverability. The final drive ratio is matched to the rear wheel size to provide smooth acceleration. Generous rear-suspension travel, a deeply cushioned seat and easy-reach handlebar offer outstanding comfort. A low seat height, the broad V-Twin powerband and clean styling complete a package that will make the SuperLow appealing to many riders.

New for 2011 Harley-Davidson Model Overview

HARLEY-DAVIDSON OFFERS THREE NEW MODELS FOR 2011

Plus New PowerPak Touring Combo and Available ABS for Softail® models

2011 H-D FLTRU Road Glide® Ultra On The Road

MILWAUKEE (July 27, 2010) - Harley-Davidson introduces the new SuperLow™, XR1200X and Road Glide® Ultra models with its expansive line of 2011-model-year motorcycles. With 32 models including urban brawlers, long-haul touring machines, contemporary customs drenched in chrome, dark retro-style bobbers, exhilarating sport roadsters and inviting standards, Harley-Davidson offers a motorcycle to match the desires of almost any street rider. Each rolls to the sound track of the American road, a syncopated V-Twin cadence that is the pulse of every Harley-Davidson® motorcycle.

Highlights of the 2011 Harley-Davidson line include:

The new SuperLow combines revised front end geometry, new wheels and tires with a reshaped seat and handlebars to achieve well-balanced handling and comfort that will inspire confidence in new riders and exhilarate those with experience.
The qualities of a frame-mounted fairing and luxury touring accommodations come together in the new Road Glide Ultra. Powered by a Twin Cam 103™ engine, this long-haul beauty comes equipped with a King Tour-Pak® luggage carrier, vented fairing lowers, ABS (anti-lock braking system), Harley-Davidson Smart Security System, cruise control, and a four-speaker, 80-watt Harman/Kardon Advanced Audio System.
The new XR1200X is Harley-Davidson Sportster® performance honed to its finest edge, with adjustable front and rear suspension, floating front brake rotors and the surging power of a high-compression 1200cc Evolution® V-Twin engine.
Select Touring models gain power and technology with the new Harley-Davidson PowerPak, which bundles the Twin Cam 103™ engine with ABS (anti-lock braking system) and the H-D® Smart Security System. PowerPak is a standard feature on the 2011 Road King® Classic, Electra Glide® Ultra Limited, and Road Glide® Ultra models, and will be available as a factory-installed option on the 2011 Street Glide® and Road Glide® Custom models.
2011 Harley-Davidson Softail models except Cross Bones® are newly available with optional ABS. New hand controls add features, convenience and cleaner styling.
The 2011 VRSC™ power-cruisers are available with a new Security Package option, which bundles ABS with a Smart Security System for greater value. Michelin® Scorcher™ tires and new colors and graphics round out changes to the Night Rod® Special and the V-Rod Muscle™.
The four 2011 Dyna® models project pure attitude. Built with the rawest styling of all the Big Twin motorcycles, Dyna models are a customizer's dream. Each is offered in new colors.

Harley-Davidson Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO™) offers four premium, limited-production motorcycles for 2011.

The new CVO Road Glide Ultra features a Road Tech® zumo® 660 GPS navigation system, upgraded Harman/Kardon Advanced Audio system with BOOM! Bagger speakers and an 8GB iPod® nano® and dock, and a two-up suspended touring seat with dual heat controls.
The CVO Street Glide rolls on a new 19-inch Agitator™ front wheel, and new ventilated fairing lowers house two of the six speakers that are part of a 100-watt-per-channel audio system that incorporates an 8GB iPod nano with dock.
The CVO Softail Convertible has a new audio system that integrates 3.5-inch speakers and a 20-watt-per-channel amplifier into a redesigned inner fairing. Music is delivered by an 8GB iPod nano stored in a protective pouch. Also new is a 1.25-inch welded mini-ape handlebar, Electronic Throttle Control (ETC), cruise control, keyless ignition and ABS.
The CVO Ultra Classic® Electra Glide® has a new suspended, heated, two-up seat with leather inserts. Dual mufflers feature new chrome billet end caps with black spears, and new mirrors are finished in mirror chrome.

Ducati Wins at Pikes Peak

Dwight Domonkos — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 06:15:41 +0000

Ducati Wins the Pikes Peak International Hillclimb

In its very first international competition, the Multistrada 1200 S took top honors in the 1200cc class in the hands of Pikes Peak Veteran Greg Tracy. The Multistrada took a massive lead off the starting line, and rode into clouds to take the top podium position at 14,110 feet. Tracy ran a smooth, uneventful race which demonstrated the exceptional on and off road capabilities of Ducati’s latest offering.

“That was an exciting week I’ve got to say. I want to thank Ducati for the opportunity they’ve given me- I was even pitted in front of Rhys Millen’s Unlimited Class ride- that was pretty cool! The Spider Grips Falkner-Livingston Multistrada was an amazing ride. Everyone did an awesome job and that motorcycle is crazy fast- it hit 137mph at one point! The bike worked great on the dirt and the asphalt,” said Tracy in the post race award ceremony. “When I was growing up, and all these factory teams would win races, I was sure they had these $100,000 engines and that was why they went so fast. I was wrong. This is my first year on a factory motorcycle and I’ll tell you that bike was box-stock. It had some carbon, and few tweaks and that was it.”

Greg’s teammate Alexander Smith also put in a formidable performance, ensuring the second Ducati entry made the podium. Alexander fought his way up the mountain, and while running battling for second had an accident in the last corner, which slowed him down but still allowed time to remount and finish third.

For more information about Ducati's win in the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, please visit Ducati USA

2011 Harley-Davidson - XR1200X Sportster

Dwight Domonkos — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 22:51:08 +0000

The XR1200X takes Harley-Davidson Sportster performance to a new level with fully adjustable premium suspension and full floating front brake rotors.

Introduced in 2010 for export markets, the XR1200X will be available as a 2011 model at Harley-Davidson dealers in the United States.

Key Features

Showa Big Piston Front fork (BPF)
Showa rear shocks with 36mm piggyback reservoirs
Nissin dual 292mm full floating rotors with four-piston calipers
Upswept, high-volume 2-1-2 straight-shot exhaust with satin black finish
Rearset footpegs for additional clearance
Optional Harley-Davidson Smart Security System

Premium Suspension and Brakes

With the premium suspension the XR1200X let the rider tune the suspension to their weight, riding style and road conditions. The Showa Big Piston Front fork eliminates many of the internal components in a cartridge-type fork resulting in lighter weight. The large diameter of the internal piston allows a reduction in damping pressure for outstanding feedback and smooth action. Rebound and and compression damping are tuned with adjustment screws on top of the fork bolts. Spring pre-load is adjusted with a M5 hex screw on the axle holders.

Showa rear shocks feature nitrogen charged piggyback reservoirs. The compression damping is adjusted with a know on top of the reservoir. Rebound damping is adjusted with a wheel on the lower clevis. Rear Spring load is also adjustable.

Dual 292mm full-floating rotors with Nissin four-piston calipers add the finishing touches to the premium suspension.

The XR1200X will be available in White Hot Denim and Black Denim. The lightweight three-spoke cast-aluminum wheels, 18" front / 17" rear, are gloss black with an orange pinstripe on the rim. The blacked-out powertrain and exhaust give the XR1200X an aggressive look to match the added performance. MSRP for the XR1200X is $11,799.

2010-2011 International Motorcycle Show - Schedule

Dwight Domonkos — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 20:28:03 +0000

The schedule for the 2010-2011 International Motorcycle Shows has been released.

In celebrating its 30th birthday the show will turn up the heat with a new look and feel from California to New York.

The 2010-2011 International Motorcycle Shows 12-city tour schedule is as follows:

November 12-14, 2010 - Dallas Convention Center - Dallas, TX
November 19-21, 2010 - San Mateo County Event Center - San Mateo, CA
December 10-12, 2010 - Qwest Field & Event Center - Seattle, WA
December 17-19, 2010 - Long Beach Convention Center - Long Beach, CA
January 7-9, 2011 - Rock Financial Showplace - Novi, MI
January 14-16, 2011 - Washington Convention Center - Washington D.C.
January 21-23, 2011 - Jacob K. Javits Convention Center - New York, NY
January 28-30, 2011 - I-X Center - Cleveland, OH
February 4-6, 2011 - Minneapolis Convention Center Minneapolis, MN
February 11-13, 2011 - Donald E. Stephens Convention Center - Chicago, IL
February 25-27, 2011 - Carolina First Center - Greenville, SC
March 9-12, 2011 - Ocean Center - Daytona Beach, FL

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