Roadcarvin Magazine - Because the ride is everything™

Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack Product Review

Michael Curry — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 17:03:00 -0400

What do you do when you love to ride and shoot photos once you've graduated from a point-and-shoot camera? How do you bring along your digital SLR camera, spare batteries and memory cards, accessories, zoom/telephoto and other lenses, cleaning materials... etc?

Sure, you can stuff everything into your garden-variety backpack, tank bag, or hard or soft luggage (if you have any), but your precious gear probably won't have much protection against dust, dirt, and damage. Improvised storage usually lacks convenience, and you may find yourself digging through your backpack for just the right item.

Lowepro Slingshot 200 AW Backpack: Photo courtesy of and copyright by Lowepro USA

I've been packing a Canon digital SLR, lenses and accessories for several years now, and I have been seeking a safe and convenient storage for combined motorcycle rides and photo shoots. A friend and colleague gave me a quick tour of one of his Lowepro backpacks and it didn't take me long to start looking for a smaller pack for motorcycle rides and other uses—when I found the Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack at a local store, it seemed perfect for most of my day trips along with non-motorcycle photographic use.

There's plenty of room for a digital SLR and accessories, and one or more medium-body telephoto/zoom lenses, such as a Canon EF 70-200mm telephoto zoom lens . There are plenty of handy pockets and other storage for memory cards, batteries and lens cleaning supplies.

First impressions and prominent features

High-quality materials and construction
smooth zipper operation
integrated armor/padding to help prevent damage in case of an accidental drop
internal zipper seals to help keep out the dust and other contaminants.
lots of pockets and photography-specific storage, for batteries, chargers, and memory cards)
built-in LCD screen cleaning cloth
integrated, stowaway weatherproof cover (in case you get stuck in the rain)
adjustable/reconfigurable internal padded storage compartment dividers allow a custom fit for your lenses

Riding impressions

Most of the weight rested on my left upper hip. I noticed a bit of weight on the left shoulder strap. The bag was comfortable on a typical ride, but I can see how it might be more of a problem on a grueling all-day or multi-day marathon ride with few or no breaks. The weight of the full bag with all my gear (including an oversized Sigma 50-500mm zoom/telephoto lens) was about 11.5lbs.

When properly adjusted and strapped, the bag hangs off to left side slightly. It didn't shift much during the ride, and didn't cause any problems even in tight and twisty switchbacks on one of my favorite mountain roads. No problems even when riding at highway speeds.

I don't get much use out of the 'slingshot' feature when out riding, as it's more difficult when wearing heavy motorcycle jackets. That's probably not a typical usage scenario when on the motorcycle—while I can swing it around for a quick roadside shot that's not something I need to do very often.

Things to watch out for

Though it may be unlikely, it might be possible for the main access flap zippers to open on their own if not properly positioned behind the protective strap and clasps—best to zip them all the way up to one corner or the other, rather than in the middle. Be sure to lock the clasps to prevent them working their way open and allowing the flap to open while riding.

Packed and ready to go: Access flap retention strap latched and zippers tucked up behind

Access Flap Strap and Clasp: Access flap retention strap and clasps, with zippers tucked in behind the strap to help prevent unintentional opening.

Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack Standard Access: Photo courtesy of and copyright by Lowepro USA

Summary

The Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack is a high-quality backpack well-suited to motorcycle use (within the limits of its carrying and weight capacity, and your endurance) for day trips.

You can carry at least one larger lens and still have lots of room for most of the accessories you will want to carry. The 'slingshot' feature is not all that useful while on your motorcycle, but is very useful when you are off the bike and out walking around.

Can be used with larger lenses as well: With a bit of creative packing

The only possible issue I see is the need to keep the access flap zippers behind the retention strap in order to help prevent unintended compartment opening while riding (see photos, above).

My conclusion: a fine addition to any motorcycle-riding photography buff's arsenal. Look for bargains online if you can't afford full list price.

Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack Ready to Go

Michael Curry — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 15:46:08 -0400

The Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack sealed up and ready for action.

Click the thumbnail or click here to see the full size image.

The Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack sealed up and ready for action.

Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack Access Flap Zippers and Pull Strings (II)

Michael Curry — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 15:44:18 -0400

Here's a photo of the Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack close-up showing the main access flap zippers and pull strings, above the retention strap so the zippers won't unzip during rides.

Zipper action is very smooth and clean, indicating high quality zippers. You can easily zip or unzip the backpack with one hand, no tugging required. Time will tell how well they hold up to wear and tear.

Click the thumbnail or click here to see the full size image.

Here's a photo of the Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack close-up showing the main access flap zippers and pull strings, above the retention strap so the zippers won't unzip during rides.

Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack Access Flap Zippers and Pull Strings

Michael Curry — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 15:42:35 -0400

Here's a photo of the Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack close-up showing the main access flap zippers and pull strings. Zipper action is very smooth and clean, indicating high quality zippers. You can easily zip or unzip the backpack with one hand, no tugging required. Time will tell how well they hold up to wear and tear.

Click the thumbnail or click here to see the full size image.

Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack Front Flap Strap and Clasp (locked)

Michael Curry — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 15:39:05 -0400

Here's a photo of the Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack close-up showing the front flap retention strap and clasp secured and ready for transport.

Click the thumbnail or click here to see the full size image.

Here's a photo of the Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack close-up showing the front flap retention strap and clasp secured and ready for transport.

Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack Front Flap Strap and Clasp (II)

Michael Curry — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 15:37:13 -0400

Here's a photo of the Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack close-up showing the front flap retention strap and clasp.

Click the thumbnail or click here to see the full size image.

Here's a photo of the Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack close-up showing the front flap retention strap and clasp.

Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack Front Flap Strap and Clasp (I)

Michael Curry — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 15:34:05 -0400

Here's a photo of the Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack close-up showing the front flap retention strap and clasp.

Click the thumbnail or click here to see the full size image.

Here's a photo of the Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack close-up showing the front flap retention strap and clasp.

Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack, Canon EOS Rebel, and Sigma 50-500mm Telephoto Zoom Lens

Michael Curry — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 14:41:51 -0400

Here's a photo of the Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack loaded with a Canon Digital Rebel SLR camera with EF 18-55mm lens, Sigma 50-500mm telephoto zoom lens, and other equipment.

The backpack is perched on my motorcycle's seat and is "open for business".

This is not the arrangement that Lowepro suggests, in that the Sigma lens is stored in the "front" quick-access compartment, where the camera would be stored for quick access through the front flap. The Bigma does fit reasonably well and the pack remains useful in this configuration.

Click the thumbnail or click here to see the full size image.

Here's a photo of the Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack loaded with a Canon Digital Rebel SLR camera with EF 18-55mm lens, Sigma 50-500mm telephoto zoom lens, and other equipment.

The backpack is perched on my motorcycle's seat and is "open for business".

Scorpion EXO-1000 Helmet Product Review

Dwight Domonkos — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 15:06:24 -0400

Scorpion Helmets - EXO-1000

Scorpion Sports offers helmets with Snell M2005 and/or DOT certification. The EXO-1000 model is both Snell M2005 and DOT certified. Scorpion Sports has incorporated innovative features into their EXO-1000 helmet. The new RPM graphics are unique and stylish with an MSRP of $309.95.

Basic Features

Snell and DOT approved
SpeedView® internal retractable sun visor
SpeedShift® quick-change shield system
AirFit® air adjustable cheek pads
KwikWick moisture-wicking removable washable interior
Padded D-Ring retention system
EverClear® no-fog faceshield
High flow ventilation system
Breath spoiler
Includes Scorpion helmet bag

Initial check-out

First impressions

I selected the EXO-1000 with Red RPM graphics, also available in Gold, Silver and Blue. The overall construction quality is excellent. The paint is smooth, glossy and the graphics are crisp. The EXO-1000 helmet feels light. Visor and vents open and close and operate smoothly. The diffuser looks good and is well integrated. The padding and liner is high quality and caries over the graphics theme. The removable liner held in place with Velcro fits well and stays in place.

The helmet includes a nicely made drawstring bag, for protection while not in use.

Visor

The EXO-1000 visor hinge has detent positions near full open. The EXO-1000 helmet also has some unique features, a switch with a lock and open position setting that opens the visor 1/2 inch. Visor action is smooth and positive. There are tabs on sides of the visor, this comes in handy when in gear at a stop light. The SpeedShift® quick-change shield system is very easy to use—to remove the visor open fully and twist the release on both sides, and the visor is released. Replacing the visor is just as easy, press the visor into position and close the visor. The EverClear® no-fog faceshield has state of the art fog-free technology and anti-scratch coating.

Ventilation controls

Front vents are easy to locate and operate even while wearing touring/winter gloves. The chin vent opens and closes with pressure to the top or bottom of the vent. The top vents provide high volume air flow. The vent above the faceshield slides up and down. The rocker style top vents are very easy to locate and operate while riding. The rear vent is opened and closed by a slide lever under the back of the diffuser. I was impressed with the ease of operation and effectiveness of the ventilation system of the Scropion EXO-1000 helmet.

Ride test

The EXO-1000 helmets sport oriented fit and aerodynamic shape works well and is comfortable. I rode sport bikes and standards wearing the EXO-1000 with minimal wind noise and little buffeting.

The Scorpion EXO-1000 Helmet features the AirFit® system allowing a rider to custom fit the helmet with the air adjustable cheek pads. This works very well and is a solution to normal pads that compress over time or rider weight change varies helmet fit. There is a release button next to the pump and a warning sticker for emergency personnel to release the air before removing the helmet.

The EXO-1000 helmet features the SpeedView® retractable sun visor. During daylight riding I normally wear sunglasses, with the SpeedView® sun visor I comfortably rode during the day and was able to quickly raise the visor riding through shaded areas for improved vision. I also liked not having to stop and change glasses after sunset.

Ventilation

I tested the Scorpion EXO-1000 helmet in temperatures between 50° and 85°(Fahrenheit). The ventilation system is effective and easy to operate. When closed there are no leaks, while open they provide noticeable air flow.

Wind noise

Wind noise was not an issue, I tested the EXO-1000 without hearing protection and the wind noise was less than other helmets I have tested. Wearing ear protection the EXO-1000 is very quiet. Of course, prudence dictates that hearing protection should be worn at all times when riding a motorcycle.

Vision

Vision is unrestricted with excellent peripheral vision. The visor quality is excellent—crystal clear and distortion-free. Riding from warm inland temperatures to cool conditions on Highway One I never experienced any fogging. Night riding was also fog free. The breath guard worked well and never contacted my nose.

Conclusion

The Scorpion EXO-1000 helmet is an attractive helmet with performance styling, high quality fit and finish with innovative features offering good value.

There are 3 graphics choices (in a variety of colors) and 4 solid colors available. You should have no trouble finding a color and pattern to complement your motorcycle no matter what you ride.

For more information, please visit Scorpion Sports.

Acknowlegements

Thanks to Scorpion Sports for providing review materials and information.

2010 Ducati 848 - Nicky Hayden Special Edition - USA Release

Dwight Domonkos — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 13:26:21 -0400

2010 Ducati 848 - Nicky Hayden Special Edition

Ducati North America will unveil the 2010 Ducati 848 Nicky Hayden Special Edition at 4pm Saturday July 4th on Ducati Island at the USGP with Nicky Hayden and Ducati CEO Gabiele Torchio. The Nicky Hayden Edition 848 will be on display the rest of the race weekend.

Key Features

LED dash illumination for superior night visibility
30mm mirror extension kit for enhanced visibility
Aluminum cam belt tensioner pulleys for improved acceleration
134hp at 10,000 rpm

The 2010 Ducati 848 Nicky Hayden Special Edition will be available at authorized Ducati dealerships July 7th in limited numbers. The US-exclusive model priced at $14,495 is sure to sell out fast. For more information on Ducati motorcycles visit Ducati USA.

Carl Boling's Custom Hot Candy Apple Harley-Davidson

Keith Breazeal Video Productions — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:52:26 -0400

Carl Boling's Hot Candy Apple Harley-Davidson featuring a pair of beautiful models. Taken at the Renegade Classics Custom Bike Shoot Out 2009 show at the Black Oak Casino.

Click the thumbnail or click here to see the full size image.

Carl Boling's Hot Candy Apple Harley-Davidson featuring a pair of beautiful models. Taken at the Renegade Classics Custom Bike Shoot Out 2009 show at the Black Oak Casino.

2009 Harley-Davidson XR1200 Road Test

Dwight Domonkos — Sat, 30 May 2009 18:30:50 -0400

Introduction

The XR1200 is Harley-Davidson's new 'hot rod' standard motorcycle. Developed for Europe and first launched in European markets in April 2008, the XR1200 is now available stateside. Inspired by the XR-750—the American dirt track racing motorcycle that dominates AMA flat-track competition—the new XR1200 features design elements that provide up-to-date street handling and performance along with the classic look, sound and feel that Harley-Davidson fans have come to expect.

First impressions

When I first saw the XR1200, my eyes were immediately drawn to the dramatic upswept brushed stainless-steel exhaust and the eye-popping Mirage Orange Pearl paint. Upon closer inspection I was impressed with the quality, fit and finish on the XR1200. The cast aluminum swingarm is a nice addition and enhances the overall appearance.

The XR1200 has an interesting and unique design that draws frequent attention. We were approached by enthusiasts wanting more information about the XR1200 during nearly every test ride. Those who stopped to check out the XR1200 were generally enthusiastic and expressed interest in owning one—men and women alike were drawn to the XR1200—new XR1200 owners should expect a lot of attention over the next year as this model makes its way onto the streets of America.

Back-road manners

Harley-Davidson emphasizes the performance aspects of the XR1200, so we'll dive right in and share our findings.

The XR1200 is well-behaved on the back roads. It handled well in every situation we threw at it. The bike's agility combined with the willing motor create a fun, capable package.

The 43mm inverted Showa forks soaked up every bump with minimal fuss. The XR1200's brakes are a pleasant and welcome surprise: a solid feel and powerful bite provide excellent stopping power with minimal fade even under repeated hard braking.

I was able to throw the XR1200 into turns with complete confidence was rewarded with consistent, predictable handling and feedback. The footpeg 'feelers' touched ground on a few occasions but in all other cases the ground clearance was more than adequate for every situation I encountered.

The five-speed transmission has a solid and usable feel even though it does have some 'clunkiness' (this is a Sportster transmission, after all). The shifting was always positive while riding, although occasionally I had a difficult time finding neutral at idle when the engine and transmission were hot, though a quick blip of the throttle cured that.

Living with the XR1200

While I'd like to spend all my time ripping around back roads, the reality is that I have to commute from home to office, or from home to my favorite back roads. A bike that's fun on the back roads can be a real pain to deal with in the real world, making it harder to live with while waiting for the next weekend trip to the hills. What's it like to ride the XR1200 in the daily grind?

The XR1200 is a narrow and nimble bike despite its higher than average weight (about 580 pounds ready to ride). The handlebars are the widest part of the bike, which makes slicing and dicing through urban traffic (and lane-sharing if you are so inclined) an easy and comfortable proposition.

The mirrors are ideally located to see what's behind you in traffic. The handlebar and mirror height are such that they don't line up with truck and SUV mirrors - which eliminates another concern when it comes to close-quarters urban combat. Control placement and handlebar position is comfortable and natural.

The Evolution motor's low-end grunt makes squirting through traffic, overtaking cars and dealing with stop-and-go traffic a painless proposition. The brakes provide similar confidence.

During city riding, the Dunlop Qualifier tires provided a stable, confidence-inspiring ride; no wiggles, jiggles or noticeable sensitivity to road surface irregularities. Moderate cross winds did not upset the XR1200 at highway speeds. Grooved freeway pavement and expansion joints did not affect the handling in any significant way.

There was no unusual or uncomfortable engine heat while sitting in stop-and-go traffic in 70°F weather. The XR1200 is comfortable at freeway speeds and the seating was perfect for commute-length rides.

The wind blast at highway speeds was tolerable and only became uncomfortable when in very high headwinds or turbulent conditions at 85+ MPH. I found the XR1200 to be comfortable even during an all-day ride covering over 350 miles.

Engine and Transmission

The Evolution 1200cc V-Twin motor sports a 10.0:1 compression ratio while oil-cooled heads help handle the heat created by increased power. The engine is rated at 74 ft-lbs torque. Harley-Davidson does not publish horsepower figures for the XR1200.

The cog belt final drive is a nice touch - no more chain lube, no chain adjustments, and it's very quiet (I could hear a faint noise that sounded like it might be coming from the belt while riding on surface streets, but longtime Harley riders tell me that a bit of belt dressing will quiet the noise).

Performance

The XR1200 offers brisk acceleration in just about any gear; down-shifting is optional in most normal riding situations. The engine really comes to life above 4000 RPM, pulling hard to redline at 7000RPM, at which point the rev limiter forces you to grab the next gear.

At 70 MPH in top gear, the engine is turning about 4K RPM so the XR1200 is in a sweet spot in the engine's powerband, resulting in a minor annoyance as this is also a slightly 'buzzy' spot in the power band. Kicking it up another 500 RPM smooths the motor out but then you are going a bit faster than you might intend... but this problem afflicts just about any big-bore street bike I've ridden.

I averaged 44 MPG overall in a blend of commuting and spirited back-road riding with plenty of wide-open throttle blasts.

Conclusion

The 2009 Harley-Davidson XR1200 is at once fun and surprisingly practical, a hot rod motorcycle that is right at home as a back-road burner and easily pulls double duty as a daily commuter or for a quick run across town.

We found the XR1200 to be a very capable blend providing daily-driver practicality and back-road fun in a unique and attention-getting package.

Priced starting at USD $10,799. Available in Vivid Black, Pewter Denim, and Mirage Orange Pearl paint.

Credits

Michael Curry contributed to the writing and editing of this article. You can read Michael's XR1200 quick take here.

Ben Thompson Crash at AMA Pro Daytona SportBike Race Infineon

Dwight Domonkos — Mon, 18 May 2009 23:37:05 -0400

I caught this crash at the start of the AMA Daytona SportBike race on Saturday, in turn two, that ultimately took Ben Thompson, Sahar Zvik, Josh Galster and Jamie LeBlanc out of the race.

I'm not sure how it all started but I captured Ben Thompson's wild crash in this photographic sequence.

Ben Thompson's crash at the start of Race #1.

About to go for a tumble.

Out of control.

That's gonna leave a mark. Oh... look! It did... on the track, anyway.

Gas spewing and parts flying.

Not the type of flying Ben Thompson had in mind.

You can't escape inertia.

A scary moment for Ricky Parker as he tries to avoid Ben Thompson's Aprilia RSV100R.

On the ground... now the trick is to avoid being hit by the oncoming riders.

Sliding to a stop, happy to be in better shape than his Aprilia RSV1000.

Unfortunately, Sahar Zvik crashed his Yamaha YZF-R6 into Ben Thompson's Aprilia RSV100R.

Luckily all the riders walked away from their crashes. A testament to skill, reflexes, and another reason why smart riders wear quality safety gear at all times...

Photo Sequence Video

Here's the entire sequence as a YouTube video:

When will ALL Harley-Davidsons be water cooled?

Michael Curry — Mon, 18 May 2009 11:13:30 -0400

2010 Ducati Streetfighter - Coming to North America

Dwight Domonkos — Mon, 04 May 2009 00:00:33 -0400

The 2009 Ducati Streetfighter was released to the global market six months ago with unprecedented performance for a naked style motorcycle. The 2010 Ducati Streetfighter will be available in North American showrooms this May.

The Streetfighter features components from Ducati's 2008 World Championship Winning Superbikes. The Ducati Streetfighter S includes Ohlins suspension, forged Marchesini wheels, carbon fiber panels and data acquisition with eight way adjustable control. The Streetfighter is available in Ducati Red or Pearl White, the S model is available in Ducati red or metallic black.

Technical Specs

Liquid cooled 1099cc 90° L-Twin, four valves per cylinder Desmodromic
155hp @ 9,500rpm
85lb-ft torque @ 9,500rpm
Dry multiplate clutch with hydralic control
Pirelli Diablo Corsa III - rear 190/55 17", front 120/70 17"
Weight 373 lbs, S model 368 lbs.

Ducati Streetfighter Launch

Participating Ducati dealers will kick off the weekend of May 22-23rd displaying the 2010 Streetfighter with demo rides on Saturday the 23rd. For more information on the Streetfighter please visit Ducati USA