Everybody Get Naked!: A Flurry of Naked Standards for the USA Market: CB1000R, Aprilia V4R Tuono,BMW R1200R and F800R
Why, O, why do they do it? Despite naked standards being a tiny percentage of total bikes sold in the USA, OEMs insist on bringing new models in to a mostly unappreciative market. The reason why is clear to moto-journalists—the product planners, marketer’s communications staff and management are undeniably enthusiasts, and a big, fast, nice-handling and comfortable bike is what they (and we) want to ride. Tragically, sales are usually disappointing. You’d think that a global recession would be enough to kill all development of anything not sportbike or cruiser, but happily (for riders and journalists), it’s not; behold, four exciting and interesting nekkid models for our Fruited Plains and Purple Mountains … Details & Pictures
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How fast can you go in a standing mile? Well if your name is Bill Warner, you can reach 278.6 MPH from a standing stop in a mile’s distance, and then slowdown in another half-mile of run-off. Helping Warner achieve that impressive feat is a turbocharged 1299cc Suzuki Hayabusa that makes 650hp, which Warner methodically turned the screws on until he beat the previous record at the Texas Mile of 261.5 MPH.
A tropical fish farmer and marine biologist by day, Warner is no fish out of water when it comes to going fast (we apologize for that horrible pun), setting the track records this year at the Maxton, North Carolina (272 mph), Loring, Maine (273 mph) and now Goliad, Texas (278.6 mph). If you think firing a bike off down a straight track is just a matter of twisting the throttle and holding on, we suggest you read  … Details & Pictures
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With a long history of representing the legends of Hollywood at its annual Classic California Auction, Bonhams & Butterfields is proud to offer the collection of famed racer, stuntman and Triumph dealer Bud Ekins on November 13th at the Petersen Automotive Museum.
Highlights from the collection include cars, motorcycles, personal never-before-seen photographs, trophies, posters, memorabilia, tools and racing jackets, as well as ephemera from best friend and collaborator Steve McQueen … Details
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Brammo has eclipsed the range capability of its pioneering Enertia electric motorcycle with its latest commuter – the Enertia Plus. With its 6.0 kW h lithium ion battery pack the Enertia Plus achieves 80 miles (128 km) on a single charge – twice that of the original model – while only adding US$1000 to the price tag.
Back in July we spoke to Brammo CEO Craig Bramscher about the huge leap forward in performance showcased by the company’s Empulse streetfighter model. It hasn’t taken long for this improved battery tech developed through racing at the Isle of Man to find its way into a bike designed for the daily commute … Details & Pictures
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