Cycle Trader Insider - Motorcycle Blog by Cycle Trader

Harley-Davison Museum Opens With Chain Cutting And A Special Tattoo

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 12:00:00 +0000

The Harley-Davidson Museum, located in Harley's hometown of Milwaukee for nearly 105 years, opened its doors for the first time to the public on July 12th.

The Museum opening kicked off with a Harley-Davidson-style "ribbon cutting" ceremony in which a motorcycle primary chain wrapped around a Museum tower was cut with an acetylene torch. Festivities - including the Harley-Davidson, Inc. president and CEO Jim Ziemer receiving his first tattoo.

"Harley-Davidson has dreamed about building this Museum for a long time," said Jim Ziemer, president and chief executive officer of Harley-Davidson, Inc. "It adds a whole new dimension to the Harley-Davidson experience."

The Museum exhibits tell the stories of the extraordinary people, products, history and culture of Harley-Davidson. The stories are told through both chronological and thematic exhibits, which are linked together by a chronological procession of landmark motorcycles from the Company's 105-year history. Vintage photographs, posters and other artifacts explain major moments in the Company's history such as the entrepreneurial start in 1903, survival during the Great Depression, involvement in WWII, and the landmark buy-back from AMF in 1981.

Along side the history galleries, four galleries dive deeper into specific topics of importance to Harley-Davidson culture. The Engine Room provides an education on Harley-Davidson engines and the science behind how they work. Another exhibit explains how motorcycle competition spurred the creation of motorcycle clubs and includes a recreation of a 1920s board track complete with factory race bikes banking a corner. Elvis Presley's motorcycle is featured in an exhibit on customization along with paperwork proving that he purchased it just days before he became famous with the hit single, "Heartbreak Hotel." The Design Lab gives a look into the process of developing a new Harley-Davidson motorcycle from concept to manufacturing.

"Riders will instantly feel at home at the Harley-Davidson Museum," said Stacey Schiesl, Harley-Davidson Museum director. "And those who aren't yet riders will be able to experience the passion that riders feel every time they fire up their motorcycles."

In addition to enjoying a variety of exhibits, Museum patrons will also be able to take a peek into a portion of the previously private Archives, home to hundreds of motorcycles and thousands of artifacts and historical photographs.

Beyond the exhibits and Archives, Museum visitors and the general public can tap into the Harley-Davidson experience in a number of other ways - from grabbing a boldly flavored American meal in Motor, the Museum's 150-seat restaurant, or Cafe Racer, a grab-and-go dining spot, to reading the various personalized messages on the Living the Legend rivets, found on curved steel walls and in plazas.

With customizable indoor and outdoor spaces, the Museum also provides a variety of unique special event spaces that can accommodate an intimate gathering of 20 to freewheeling festivities for 15,000. The Museum site, located on 20 acres of park-like green space and bordered by the Menomonee River on three sides, is open to the public free of charge, 24 hours a day.

Source: Harley-Davidson

Motorcycle And Scooter Riders Celebrate Ride To Work Day On July 16th

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 13:00:00 +0000

Motorcycle and scooter riders will celebrate the 17th annual commuting day on Wednesday, July 16th.

On Ride to Work Day, motorcycle and scooter commuters seek improved employer recognition and support for this form of transportation and increased public and government awareness of the positive value of riding.

According to the official Ride To Work Day website, participation in the yearly demonstration is estimated to triple the number of riders on the road. Motorcycle and scooter groups and organizations actively encourage riders to commute by cycle on this day.

Adding more motorcycles and scooters to everyone's daily commute makes urban parking easier and traffic flow better, according to Ride to Work, a non-profit advocacy organization. Studies have also shown that across the same distances, motorcyclists reach their destinations faster than those using automobiles.

Many motorcycles and scooters also consume less resources per mile than automobiles. "Riding to work on this day is fun and shows the positive value of motorcycling. For many people, riding is a socially responsible form of mobility that saves energy, helps the environment and provides a broad range of other public benefits," stated Andy Goldfine, this year's event organizer.

Source: RideToWork.org

The Cam-Am Spyder Catches The Attention Of Other Drivers And Hollywood

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 16:00:00 +0000

Philly.com features a story and video on the owner of the Cam-Am Spyder and the growing popularity of three-wheel trike motorcycles.

Philly.com reports that trikes have been around for a while, yet the three-wheel Can-Am Spyder by Bombardier Recreational Products is an attention grabber. Spyder owners find their futuristic-looking rides cause onlookers to stop and stare.

Resembling a cross between a snowmobile and a sleek sport bike, the Cam-Am Spyder's looks are attracting more than long looks from other drivers, Hollywood film producers love it too. Expect to see the Spyder in the upcoming Transformers sequel and the film-adaptation of GI Joe.

Trikes are finding new popularity with riders who seek the open road experience of motorcycle riding, yet seek the stability that a three-wheel vehicle offers.

Source: Philly.com

The Star Motorcycles 2009 V Star 250

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 19:00:00 +0000

While Star Motorcycle's 2009 Vmax is getting a ton of attention, that doesn't mean it's the only new Motorcycle that Star is offering for 2009. For beginning riders and those who want a more modest bike, Star Motorcycles features the 2009 V Star 250.

According to Star Motorcycles, V Star 250 offer a the Light weight and a seat just 27 inches from the pavement that makes the V Star 250 a great trainer as well as a great choice for riders who appreciate the fun that comes in small packages.

The V Star 250 also offers Dual exhausts, plenty of quality chrome and typical Star attention to detail. Front disc brakes provides highly controllable stopping power.

Source: Star Motorcycles

Harley Riders Cover Three Million Miles In 24 Hours On "Million Mile Monday"

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 20:00:00 +0000

Harley-Davidson reports that on Monday, June 30, 2008, Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.) members around the world shattered the goal set for the club’s inaugural Million Mile Monday, logging more than three million total riding miles in a 24-hour period.

“It blows me away. What started out as a simple, fun idea turned into something very special. Our members really gave it legs--make that miles. What a blessing to be enjoying this beautiful country on American iron right before the 4th of July. Now that's freedom. Can't wait till next year!” said Benny Suggs, Senior Director of H.O.G. Operations.

To put the accumulated mileage into perspective, the 3,000,960 miles ridden by the more than 18,000 H.O.G. members who participated on June 30 equates to the equivalent of about 120 trips around the equator.

Source: Harley-Davidson

Ducati June Sales Hit All Time High

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 19:03:00 +0000

Ducati North America recently announced a record retail month in June; surpassing the previous all time high set in May of 2007.

According to Ducati, the record setting month, 22% higher than June of 2007, keeps the company’s sales ahead for the year despite a weak marketplace.

“I am pleased to report that sales were strong across the model range and have been exceptional for the newly introduced Monster 696,” commented Jason Chinnock, National Sales Manager for Ducati North America. “The 696 demand outpaced our supply for the month otherwise the new record of 1410 units would have been higher! We will be working hard to meet that demand in the coming months and with the motorcycle market reporting slower sales, we are excited to be bucking the trend.”

Ducati North America has been enjoying outstanding growth in the United States over the last five years and has nearly tripled sales since 2003. A string of commercially successful bikes, from the Hypermotard to the new 1098 and 848 superbikes, and now the new Monster have taken the brand to sales of over 10,000 in the last 12 months. “The transformation of our product lineup and the exceptional dedication of our dealer network to improve has delivered these outstanding results,” commented Michael Lock, CEO of Ducati North America. “At a time when fuel costs are dominating the public’s attention, Ducati offers a perfect storm of style, performance and bikes like the Monster 696 that can return over 50 mpg!”

Source: Ducati

Florida Motorcycle Riders Reflect On Eight Years Since The Repeal Of Helmet Laws

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 19:09:00 +0000

For over 33 years in the state of Florida, the only legal way to ride a motorcycle was while wearing a helmet.

That all changed on July 1, 2000, when the mandatory helmet law was repealed and anyone over the age 21 with $10,000 in personal injury could ride without a helmet.According to the Ledger.com, eight years later, the debate continues.

Are helmet laws lifesavers, or do they infringe on the right of motorcycle riders to make their own choices?

Right now, twenty states still require motorcycle riders to wear helmets.

Source: TheLedger.com

Yamaha 2009 YZF-R6S Features Light Weight And Big Horsepower

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 19:00:00 +0000

The Yamaha Motors homepage features details on the Yamaha 2009 YZF-R6S.

The key features of the Yamaha 2009 YZF-R6S are light weight, big horsepower, razor-sharp handling and a comfortable cockpit.

The suction-piston-type fuel injection with 38mm throttle bodies features short intake ports and a special vacuum-controlled intake system, ensuring instant throttle response all the way up to the 15,500-rpm redline.

Other features include a Deltabox III frame and Controlled-Fill swingarm, super-light five-spoke 17-inch wheels, and multifunction digital and analog instrumentation.

Source: Yamaha

Harley-Davidson Helps Divas Put The Brakes On Breast Cancer

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 12:00:00 +0000

Harley-Davidson Motor Company is participating in the third annual Divas For A Cure (DFAC) Annual Cross-Country Breast Cancer Motorcycle Run.

Hundreds of motorcyclists and motorcycle enthusiasts will make their way to Atlanta, Ga., to kick off the event on July 19.

The annual motorcycle run is organized by DFAC, a service-based nonprofit organization dedicated to raising cancer awareness through early detection, education, screenings and supporting research for eradicating cancer. Last year DFAC raised $50,000 for breast cancer research. The organization is looking forward to reaching a target of $100,000 from this year's ride.

The DFAC motorcycle run is scheduled to take place from July 16 to Aug. 6 with donations presented to the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center - Nellie B. Connally Breast Center.

The "Divas" are also scheduled to participate in a VIP tour of the Harley-Davidson Museum on July 22 guided by Curatorial Director, Jim Fricke. "We are very excited to have Jan Emanuel-Costley and her supporters tour our exciting new museum. Similar to Jan's commitment and passion to bring awareness to breast cancer, we are just as committed to support great efforts like the Divas For A Cure ride and other community-focused initiatives," said Jim Fricke.

The 6,000-mile ride is scheduled to depart from Brown Mills, N. J., to official kick-off city of Atlanta; Atlanta to Canada; Canada to the National Bikers Roundup in Pennsylvania; down the East Coast; and finally returning back to Atlanta. The meet and greet dates will begin following the initial departure from New Jersey. More details on the route are available online at www.DivasForACure.org.

Source: Harley-Davidson and Divas For A Cure

The Kawasaki 2009 Vulcan 500 LTD Is Friendly To New And Experienced Riders

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 19:00:00 +0000

The Kawasaki homepage features details on the 2009 Vulcan 500 LTD.

According to Kawasaki, the Vulcan 500 LTD is the answer to motorcyclists yearning to ride into the cruiser lifestyle.

With a low seat height, friendly power delivery and affordable purchase price, Kawasaki considers the Vulcan 500 LTD an excellent entry level motorcycle and an easy platform on which to develop those all-important riding skills.

More experienced riders will appreciate its ample power and comfortable accommodations, while the Vulcan 500 LTD’s practicality, efficiency and reliability as a transportation source are sure to be appealing to riders of all calibers.

The Ninja 500R-based parallel twin-cylinder engine gives the Vulcan 500 LTD serious cruiser muscle and a smooth, predictable torque delivery.

A stepped seat, bobbed rear fender, tank-mounted speedometer and chrome-plated wire-spoke wheels give it the classic cruiser looks sure to please the custom style crowd. The rider calming low, 28-inch seat height rounds out the Vulcan 500 LTD’s rider friendly chassis.

Source: Kawasaki

LoJack Busts Two Las Vegas Motorcycle Theft Rings In Less Than 48 Hours

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 19:00:00 +0000

Las Vegas is the home of casinos, bright lights, and two busted motorcycle theft rings that were brought down by LoJack in less than 48 hous.

According to the LoJack Corporation homepage, LoJack For Motorcycles was instrumental in helping Las Vegas police and the Southern Nevada Auto Theft Task Force break up two theft rings June 14-16. The operations led to the recovery of four Honda CBR motorcycles, a Yamaha ATV and the arrest of 10 suspects.

“Motorcycle riders need to do everything in their power to protect their valuable assets, because professional thieves can steal a bike right out of your garage and hide it in theirs,” said Patrick Clancy, Vice President of Law Enforcement, LoJack Corporation.

It all started when a Las Vegas resident left his garage door open and later discovered his 2006 Honda CBR600 motorcycle stolen.

Once the LoJack Unit was activated, Las Vegas police and the Southern Nevada Auto Theft Task Force located the stolen bike in the garage of a known street gang member.

After a search warrant was obtained, officers discovered the stolen Honda CBR600 equipped with the LoJack, along with a stolen 2001 Honda CBR900 inside the garage. Seven suspects were arrested on a variety of charges including “Operating a Chop Shop,” “Possession of Stolen Property” and “Grand Larceny Auto.” A 2007 Yamaha ATV, which was reported stolen two days before, was also recovered without any known damage.

Source: LoJack Corporation

The Best Electric Scooters Of 2008

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 18:30:00 +0000

The humble motor-scooter has received more attention lately thanks to rising fuel costs and frugal consumers looking for cheap transportation.

Electric scooters have now matched gas-powered models for speed and distance. Metaefficient.com features their ranking of the best electric scooters of 2008.

The juice to drive electric scooters comes from standard nickle-metal hybrid (NiMH) batteries, often upgradable to lighter but pricier lithium-ion batteries.

The Vetrix scooter (pictured left) is fast enough to rate as an electric motorcycle.

Source Metaefficient

Harley-Davidson announces events for Laconia Motorcycle Week

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 19:00:00 +0000

Harley-Davidson recently announced events planned for the Laconia Motorcycle Week in Laconia, N.H. from June 17 - 21, 2008 that include the following highlights:

Product displays and experts for the 2008 line-up of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, along with the latest Genuine Motor Accessories and MotorClothes Merchandise.
The Harley-Davidson Traveling Museum featuring unique displays of vintage Harley-Davidson products and memorabilia.
Demo rides provide the chance to test ride any number of Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Rides are free, but participants must bring a valid motorcycle license, wear a D.O.T. approved helmet and eye protection, and sign a release form.

The Harley-Davidson Festival at Laconia Motorcycle Week is located at Laconia City Hall in Downtown Laconia, N.H.

Source: Harley-Davidson

Willie G. Davidson Family Gifts Sculpture To Harley-Davidson Museum

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 17:00:00 +0000

Harley-Davidson reports the grandson of one of the founders of Harley-Davidson and his family unveiled a gift they are giving to commemorate the new Harley-Davidson Museum, which will open to the public on July 12 in Milwaukee.

Willie G. Davidson, senior vice president and chief styling officer for Harley-Davidson, and his family presented a sculpture featuring a motorcycle hill climber to the Museum. The one-and-one-half-times life-size sculpture pays tribute to motorcycle competition and enthusiast culture.

"The Harley-Davidson Museum means so much to me and my family that we wanted to leave something permanent here as a gift," Willie G. Davidson said. "We chose the hill climber as a subject because it portrays the thrill and adventure of the sport and because of the important role motorcycle competition played in developing enthusiast culture."

Jeff Decker, a Harley-Davidson licensed artist and motorcycle enthusiast, was asked by the Davidson family to design the sculpture. The piece was made of bronze and will be permanently placed at the end of Canal Street on the Museum grounds. Designed with organic shapes and lines that contrast with the industrial architecture of the Museum, the sculpture will be among the first things visitors see as they approach the Museum. Access to the Harley-Davidson Museum grounds will be available to the public, free of charge, 24 hours a day.

Source: Harley Davidson

Batman Motorcycle Offered As Prize By The Hershey Company To Promote The Dark Knight Movie

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 20:19:00 +0000

If you have seen the trailer for the new Batman film, The Dark Knight, you know that the caped crusader keeps the Batmobile in the garage for a few scenes to ride a new bike called the BatPod.

As part of a promotion for The Dark Knight, The Hershey Company is masking some of their candies in a Batman-themed black and blue color scheme or unique bat shapes.

Hershey is also offering a contest prize of a Batman-themed, hand built MV Agusta F4 motorcycle.

(Bat-suit and secret cave filled with high-tech crime-fighting gear not included.)

Source: The Hershey Company

The Launch Of The Star Motorcycles 2009 Vmax

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 20:00:00 +0000

StarVmax.com features video of the official launch event for the Star Motorcycles 2009 Vmax motorcycle.

The launch took place June 3rd on the deck of the USS Midway in San Diego, California. From the looks of this bike, an aircraft carrier is the perfect place to celebrate its introduction.

Here are some photos of the event.

Source: Star Motorcycles

Star Motorcycles Reveals The 2009 VMAX

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 19:45:00 +0000

The Star Motorcycles homepage features details on the long-awaited 2009 VMAX.

According to Star Motorcycles, 2009 VMAX delivers unmatched performance from its all-new 65-degree, four-valves-per-cylinder, 1679cc V4 and plenty of eye-opening, controllable acceleration from a compact engine that looks as powerful as it is.

Other features include a downdraft four-bore fuel injection with YCC-I intake technology and YCC-T fly-by-wire throttle provide awesome acceleration throughout the broad powerband.

The lightweight aluminum chassis puts the engine low and forward for mass centralization, resulting in a machine designed to handle curves as well as straightaways.

Borrowing liberally from advanced sportbike technology, VMAX features a slipper clutch, wave-style brake discs with ABS and Brembo® master cylinders and complete suspension adjustability front and rear.

The Engine is a new-generation V4: The thunderous 1679cc, 65-degree, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected four-valves-per-cylinder, DOHC engine pumps out astonishing power to reinvent the VMAX legend.

The sportbike-proven Yamaha Chip Controlled Intake (YCC-I) switches nearly instantaneously between 150mm and 54mm intake funnels as needed for a broad powerband that delivers optimum performance at any rpm.

Five-speed transmission has spaced gear ratios to take full advantage of the engine’s power in straight-line acceleration or through the canyons.

Delivering this power cruiser’s muscle to the street means a beefy shaft drive just like its predecessor. Special shaft design includes two cross joints to accommodate the fat 200/50 R18 rear tire.

The high-performance engine is cooled by two radiators for efficiency and clean looks. Lubrication is via a simple, reliable wet sump system.

Four-into-one-into-two-into-four exhaust system with EXUP (Exhaust Ultimate Power valve) delivers a broad, seamless powerband with the right VMAX look. The iconic VMAX aluminum intake covers are hand buffed by craftsmen for superb quality and individuality.

The newly designed chassis is light and compact, with a cast aluminum main frame, CF die-cast and extruded aluminum rear frame and cast aluminum swingarm. The result is superb rigidity balance for both hard acceleration off the line and corner carving.

There is a 2009 VMAX micro-site featuring more details on features and video.

Source: Star Motorcycles

Harley-Davidson Museum Opens On July 12th

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 16:00:00 +0000

Harley-Davidson is having a 105th birthday with the ultimate present: a new museum.

The Harley-Davidson Museum, located near downtown Milwaukee, will open its doors to the public on Saturday, July 12.

Described as an event 105 years in the making, the Grand Opening festivities will kick off with a Harley-Davidson-style ceremony at 10 a.m. and will continue throughout the weekend.

The Harley-Davidson homepage reports The 130,000-square-foot Museum will add a whole new dimension to the Harley-Davidson experience.

Visitors will get a feel for the freedom, camaraderie and pride that Harley-Davidson riders experience every time they fire up their motorcycles.

Source: Harley-Davidson

Ducati 848 Superbike Breaks Sales Record

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 20:00:00 +0000

Ducati North America recently announced that the 848 Superbike has become Ducati's fastest-selling model ever.

According to Ducati, the 848 Superbike was unveiled in Milan last November as a lighter, more affordable alternative to Ducati’s 1098 Superbike. The 848 has surpassed every sales record set by its sibling in the Superbike range.

Since its release six months ago, over 1,200 848 Superbikes have been sold in North America; accounting for more than 20% of Ducati’s overall sales. The previous record holder was the 1098 Superbike, which revved its way into 1,000 new homes during the same period one year prior.

“The 848 has successfully bridged the gap for those aspiring to own a Ducati Superbike as well as addressing the desires of our loyal customer base,” said Jason Chinnock, National Sales Manager for Ducati North America. “In addition, Larry Pegram’s success on the track in AMA Formula Extreme is driving showroom traffic as the 848 proves it’s a serious contender for the title.”

Source: Ducati

The Experienced Rider Safety Course Sharpens Riding Skills

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 20:42:00 +0000

A motorcycle safety course is a wise idea if you are a first time motorcycle rider, but what about former riders who have not been behind the handlebars in years?

The Chicago Tribune features a story on the Experienced Rider Course offered by Motorcycle Safety Foundation.

The Experienced Rider Course starts out on your own motorcycle, not the starter bike used in the beginners course.

The lessons for the experienced rider are about building on the skills you already have, then sharpening them for avoiding close-calls or accidents.

The course features a classroom section, driving tests with the orange cones you know and love, and practice on maneuvers ranging from tight turns to sudden stops.

Source: Chicago Tribune.

As Gas Prices Rise, So Do Scooter Sales

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Fri, 30 May 2008 19:00:00 +0000

While gas prices show no sign of slowing down, motorcycle dealers are seeing more customers checking out two-wheel alternatives to save money, like the Honda Silverwing pictured above. The Chicago Tribune features a Denver Post report that scooter sales are up 24 percent nationwide over last year.

Buyers who once thought they were too cool for scooters are changing their minds about owning one. Riders are using their scooters so much that the need for scooter repairs and parts has risen as well.

The Chicago Tribune also notes that dual purpose motorcycles, capable of riding off-road or on the highway, are a popular choice for those looking to reduce pain at the gas pump. Dealers report that many buyers were thinking about buying a scooter or motorcycle before gas prices started their harsh climb, but gas prices were the leading reason why they decided to buy now rather than wait.

Source: Chicago Tribune

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A Harley-Davidson Softail Springer Classic Features Prominently In New Indiana Jones Movie

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Thu, 29 May 2008 13:00:00 +0000

A Harley-Davidson Softail Springer Classic features prominently in the new Indiana Jones movie 'Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull', the top box office movie of the past weekend.

According to Harley Davidson...

Directed by Steven Spielberg, the latest in the series of cult Indiana Jones movies stars Harrison Ford and Shia LaBeouf along with a 2007 Harley-Davidson Softail Springer Classic customized to reflect the movie's 1957 period setting. The bike's starring role comes during one of the film's signature action-packed chase scenes, and features Shia LaBeouf tearing through a college campus with Harrison Ford along for the ride as a passenger.

Harley-Davidson Motor Company prepared five bikes for this movie and was closely involved with the on-set handling of the bikes. After the completion of the filming, two of the bikes will be returned to the Motor Company and will be on display in the soon-to-be-opened Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Museum, which opens to the public on July 12 in Milwaukee.

Source: Harley-Davidson and Paramount Pictures

60 Million Honda Super Cub Motorbikes On The Road All Over The World

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Wed, 28 May 2008 18:00:00 +0000

Wired.com reports on the appeal and longevity of Honda's Super Cub Motorcycle. According to the Wired story, the Super Cub motorcycle is more than a best selling motorcycle, it is the best-selling vehicle in the history of the internal combustion engine with over 60 million bikes on the road.

Image Source: Wikipedia

Introduced 50 years ago, the original Honda Super Cub is credited with fueling the early Japanese motorcycle industry. The Super Cub does not have the rebel image of a Harley-Davidson or the speed of Honda's racing bikes, yet it has built a reputation as a sturdy, cheap, and reliable workhorse all over the world.

Sadly, you can't get the Super Cub in the United States anymore. Honda did sell the Super Cub in the States as the Honda Passport in the 1980's, but has since discontinued the model.

YouTube user 7863348 has uploaded video of a restored Honda Passport.

An entry last year on Autoblog Green suggested Honda bring the Super Cub back to the States, but no word yet if Honda is even considering it.

Source: Wired.com and YouTube

Biodiesel-Powered Harley Davidson Gets 89 Miles Per Gallon

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Tue, 27 May 2008 18:00:00 +0000

As gas prices rise, Motorcycle are getting more attention for their fuel efficiency than their stylish looks. Compared to other vehicles, motorcycles are hard to beat for miles per gallon.

A unique Harley-Davidson motorcycle takes fuel efficiency to a new level with biodiesel power that gets 89 MPG. Ridden by Bill Bolch, the biodiesel-powered Harley recently won in the MPG category at the Fourth Annual Green Grand Prix in Watkins Glen in upstate New York.

Source: Autoblog Green and Faster and Faster

Robbie Knievel Makes Daring Motorcycle Jump Over 24 Trucks At Kings Island

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Sun, 25 May 2008 18:30:00 +0000

Robbie Knievel made a stunning motorcycle jump over 24 trucks yesterday, soaring over 200 feet off of a ramp nearly three stories high.

According to the Cleveland Leader, the jump took place in the parking lot of Kings Island Amusement Park near Cincinnati, Ohio. Flames fired up in the air and the crowed cheered as Knievel's motorcycle flew over the 24 trucks.

Knievel dedicated the jump to his late father, Evel Knievel, and US war veterans and military service members.

Evel Knievel made a jump in the same parking lot in 1975, traveling over 115 feet over 14 buses.

YouTube user sirflipper has uploaded video of the jump.

MyFoxCleveland also reports on the jump and lists Robbie Knievel's past jumps.

Source: Cleveland Leader and YouTube