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Category: Motorcycles
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For a long time, motorcycles have been synonymous with the open road, the roar of an engine, and the mechanical artistry that drives motorcyclists around all over the world. But as technology develops, electric bikes have become a really interesting substitute because of their efficiency, sustainability, and innovation.
Performance, maintenance, and riding experience are a few of the many considerations when deciding between a traditional motorbike and an electric bike. 
Performance and Riding Dynamics
Performance always starts the debate between conventional motorbikes and electric bikes. Internal combustion engines (ICE) run conventional motorcycles from single-cylinder models to high-performance multi-cylinder machines. These engines provide tremendous horsepower and torque, thus providing thrilling acceleration and top-end speed. For many riders, the unique sensory experience offered by the separate engine rumble and gear shift engagement is priceless.
On the other hand, most kinds of electric bikes run with battery-powered motors, therefore removing the need for gears. Acceleration, especially on high-end electric motorcycles, can be surprisingly quick because of the instant torque delivery. Electric bikes are appealing for urban commuters and riders looking for a new kind of excitement since they offer a smooth and near-silent ride unlike gasoline-powered bikes that call for revving and shifting.
For those considering making the switch, a wide selection of electric bikes can be found at e-bikesdirect.co.uk, offering models suited for both casual riders and experienced motorcyclists looking to explore this new frontier of mobility.
Maintenance and Long-Term Costs
Having a classic motorcycle comes with maintenance responsibilities that riders sometimes welcome as part of the ride. Internal combustion engines call for regular tuning, air filter replacements, spark plug inspections, and oil changes. The procedure also includes cleaning the fuel system, adjusting the clutch, and maintaining the chain. Although many riders appreciate the hands-on mechanical maintenance, these responsibilities add to ongoing expenses and effort.
Electric bikes significantly ease maintenance. Fewer moving components mean no fuel system to manage, no clutch or gearbox to maintain, and no oil changes. For owners of electric bikes, brake maintenance and battery condition are the most significant concerns. While battery degradation is something to consider over time, most electric bikes maintain their performance for years before needing a replacement thanks to modern lithium-ion technology. Traditional braking components last longer with regenerative braking since they don't wear out as quickly.
When it comes to operational expenses, electric bikes are the clear winner. With developments in charging infrastructure, range anxiety is becoming less of a concern as electricity is significantly less expensive than gasoline. Although electric bikes may have a higher sticker price, the money you'll save on gas and repairs over time more than makes up for it.
The Overall Riding Experience
There is no denying the emotional connection between rider and machine on traditional motorcycles. Many riders fall in love with motorcycling for the physical sensation of hearing an engine rev, feeling the vibrations through the handlebars, and engaging in precise gear shifts. Those who like the vintage riding experience often choose petrol-powered motorcycles for their long road excursions, which offer an element of adventure and nostalgia.
However, electric bikes have a different kind of appeal. Their near-silence operation creates a futuristic and effortless riding experience. Ideal for urban commuting where stop-and-go traffic can become tiresome on a traditional motorcycle, instant torque delivery ensures quick acceleration without the need for clutch control. The lack of noise also allows the rider to relax and enjoy the trip without being bombarded by engine noises, creating a more tranquil experience.
Although range is still limited for electric bikes relative to fuel-powered motorcycles, current developments are stretching the possibilities. As battery technology develops and charging networks grow, electric bikes become more practical for longer distances.
Making the Right Choice
In the end, intended use and personal taste define whether one chooses an electric bike or a traditional motorcycle. Those who value mechanical engagement, long-distance riding, and the classic motorcycling experience may want to stick to petrol-powered machines. Meanwhile, those who value efficiency, low maintenance, and cutting-edge technologies could find electric bikes more appealing.
Riding a motorcycle now gives greater flexibility than ever as the industry welcomes change. Whether you decide on the whisper-quiet efficiency of an electric bike or the deafening boom of an internal combustion engine, the road ahead is definitely as thrilling as ever.
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Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, celebrated performance, style, and customisation at the Moto Bike Expo in Verona, Italy, by showcasing the ‘First 6’ customs based on the newly announced 2025 Indian Sport Chief RT. With a public vote to choose the best, the ‘First 6’ collection of Club Style customs has been crafted by select Indian Motorcycle dealers from around Europe, highlighting the artistry and ingenuity of the brand’s dealer network.
Building on the new Sport Chief RT’s aggressive style, attitude, and dynamic riding character, the six dealer builds bring unique designs, custom finishes, and creative interpretations to the RT’s performance cruiser roots.
For Ola Stenegärd, a renowned customiser and Director of Design for Indian Motorcycle, the ‘First 6’ is a passion project that links directly to a key principle of the factory design team – customising is key.
“When we’re designing, we’re always keeping customisers in our minds to ensure that the bikes we produce are as easy to work on as we can make them. The ‘First 6’ really is the fruit of that process and, as ever, I’m totally blown away by the results, especially with the really short time our dealers had to create these bikes from the sketches they presented during the selection process,” said Stenegärd. “The level of paintwork is next-level and the close-up details are off the wall. With every viewing you find something new on each build.”
Each dealer had just six weeks from the delivery of the base Indian Sport Chief RT to delivering a completed Club Style build to the Verona Show, proving they all have what it takes to impress under pressure.
With the high standard of the ‘First 6’ Sport Chief RT customs, the public vote to select a winner is set to be close. Voting is open until <DATE> with the winning bike will be announced during the Salon Du 2 Roues show in Lyon, France, February 13-16.
Voting Link https://bit.ly/indianmotorcyclertcontest
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European 2025 PowerPlus Lineup Powered by the New PowerPlus 112 Engine
From the Track to the Street, Indian Motorcycle Introduces New PowerPlus 112 – the Engine that Powered the 2024 King of the Baggers Championship & Delivers Both High Horsepower & High Torque
Fork-Mounted Fairing Chieftain and Roadmaster Models Expand PowerPlus Family, Building on the Performance-Oriented, American V-Twin Style Originally Established with the Indian Challenger
Powered by its steadfast commitment to innovation and driving the V-Twin category forward, Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, has expanded its PowerPlus family with the 2025 Chieftain PowerPlus and Roadmaster PowerPlus. In addition, the company introduced a 112ci (1834 cc) version of its PowerPlus engine after two years of developing and refining it through the Indian Motorcycle Racing program en route to the team’s 2024 King of the Baggers championship.
As with the Indian Challenger and Indian Pursuit chassis-mounted fairing models, these new PowerPlus fork-mounted fairing models combine a classic muscular American V-Twin style with rider assist technologies never before offered in an American V-Twin motorcycle. Meanwhile, the new PowerPlus 112 engine expands on the unparalleled performance of its 108ci (1768 cc) predecessor – going beyond the power limitations of traditional V-Twin motors to deliver more consistent, sustainable power, with instant acceleration and effortlessly sustained high speeds within every gear throughout the range.
“More than a decade ago when we relaunched Indian Motorcycle, we made a commitment to innovation, just as our original founders did back in 1901. Innovation powered their success, and it is still driving us today; and the expansion of our family of performance-oriented PowerPlus models is a perfect example,” said Aaron Jax, Vice President, Indian Motorcycle. “From liquid-cooled motors and mono-shock rear suspension to the advent of modern performance baggers with the Indian Challenger, we were first to market in the V-Twin category with these advancements. It’s all part of our ongoing commitment to innovating with features and options that enhance the riding experience for our customers and for generations of riders to come.”
The new Chieftain PowerPlus and Roadmaster PowerPlus redefine the American V-Twin riding experience, featuring distinctive American style, next-generation performance, rider-centric technology, and comfort to go the distance.
STYLE
The new Chieftain PowerPlus and Roadmaster PowerPlus wear aggressive and chiseled lines that are a visual representation of their high-performance hearts. Their compact stance makes each model look smaller, lighter, nimbler and more athletic. The new fairing’s design is sleek and aerodynamic, offering improved handling and stability at high speeds to provide superior control when compared to previous Chieftain and Roadmaster models.
Adding to each bike’s design is a new LED headlight. Seamless integration of daytime running lights around its center creates a sophisticated signature to the distinctive front end. Chieftain PowerPlus and Roadmaster PowerPlus exhibit meticulous attention to design detail, showcasing craftsmanship and precision with iconic brand elements throughout.
PERFORMANCE
Indian Motorcycle’s PowerPlus engine is the only American liquid-cooled V-Twin that delivers the horsepower and torque that motorcycle enthusiasts crave. The PowerPlus represents the future American V-Twin performance, engineered with an innovative cooling system to deliver consistent power in all conditions.
New PowerPlus 112
Taking bagger and touring performance to an entirely new level is the PowerPlus 112 (1834 cc), unleashing 126 horsepower and 181.4 Nm. The contemporary design of the PowerPlus — a high revving, liquid-cooled engine with overhead cams and 4 valves per cylinder — delivers both high horsepower and high torque. This unique combination delivers an unmatched ride without sacrifices – optimizing acceleration across the rev range for unrivaled passing power in every gear. With the PowerPlus, riders don’t have to constantly shift to keep up, as with traditional push rod V-Twins. When in doubt, don’t shift, because the power is right there waiting. Just twist the throttle.
Prior to its launch, the PowerPlus 112 was tested and refined in the most demanding environment – racing. Powering the Indian Motorcycle factory race team, the PowerPlus 112 helped deliver the 2024 King of the Baggers championship. Now, for European markets, the same PowerPlus 112 is standard across the 2025 PowerPlus family, including Chieftain, Indian Challenger, Roadmaster, and Indian Pursuit.
Handling
Frame geometry and stiffness on the Chieftain PowerPlus and Roadmaster PowerPlus maximize power while enabling precise, nimble handling. Inverted front forks and radial-mounted Brembo® brakes are more prominently visible to exude modern performance while contributing to the bike’s confident ride experience.
TECHNOLOGY
For 2025, the PowerPlus lineup will debut a host of new Rider Assist features that are aimed at improving rider awareness and enhancing rider convenience. These new Rider Assist features will be bundled with previously offered SmartLean Technology and come standard with the PowerPlus 112 engine. This continued innovation from Indian Motorcycle delivers technology and features that create a more comfortable, and more confident riding experience. Details of the new Rider Assist features include:
– Bike Hold Control – Activated by the rider, this braking system automatically maintains brake pressure to prevent the bike from rolling while resting at an incline for up to three minutes.
– Electronic Combined Brake System – This new feature optimizes brake pressure across both front and rear circuits based on the rider’s brake input for balanced and efficient braking performance.
– Blind Spot Warning – The system alerts riders when a vehicle is detected in their rear blind spot with warnings across the RIDE COMMAND screen and light indicators on the side mirrors. Riders can customize notification preferences to suit their needs.
– Tailgate Warning – This warning system alerts riders when a vehicle is traveling too close for comfort behind the rider. Riders will be notified via the RIDE COMMAND screen and light indicators on the side mirrors. Riders can adjust notification mode and following distances to suit their preferences.
– Rear Collision Warning – This feature alerts rearward approaching vehicles via rear lighting when a potential collision is detected.
– Smart Lean Technology™ – This technology enhances the Anti-Lock Braking and Traction Control systems by tuning the performance based on the vehicle lean-angle and features dynamic traction control, cornering control and drag torque control.
Adding to each new model’s technology package is Indian Motorcycle’s 178 mm touchscreen display powered by RIDE COMMAND offering system control right from the dash, bike information, customizable gauge screens, and Bluetooth® connectivity. With the factory-installed RIDE COMMAND+ Telecommunications Unit (TCU) featuring connectivity free for one year, the advanced infotainment system offers turn-by-turn GPS navigation, Apple CarPlay®, bike health, bike locator, intuitive destination search, and more**. The vehicle locator feature provides riders with an added sense of security by being able to see the location the bike was powered on via the RIDE COMMAND app or website.
Standard across the expanded PowerPlus family are three ride modes, cylinder deactivation and cruise control – allowing riders to tailor their ride and further increase performance and comfort. Keyless ignition, USB charging and remote-locking saddlebags offer convenience.
COMFORT
No matter the distance, Chieftain PowerPlus and Roadmaster PowerPlus riders and passengers will sit comfortably in the saddle. Each model’s new fork-mounted fairing design maximizes protection from the elements, while an adjustable windshield offers 100 mm of travel for personalized airflow management. A new rider cockpit design optimized for function with intuitive controls allows riders to keep their eyes on the road and indulge in their surroundings.
For touring riders, Roadmaster PowerPlus and Indian Pursuit offers convenient electronically adjustable rear suspension preload allowing riders to seamlessly adjust settings, when packing for the long haul or riding two-up, via the RIDE COMMAND screen. A stitched ClimaCommand Heated and Cooled Seat and Heated Grips are a luxury that spoil riders when in extreme weather conditions. The ClimaCommand Seat offers adjustable heating and cooling for both rider and passenger via integrated buttons with haptics or via the in-dash display powered by RIDE COMMAND.
Remote-locking saddlebags keep gear safe and dry on the road with over 68 litres of storage for Challenger and Chieftain PowerPlus while the Pursuit and Roadmaster PowerPlus, with their rear trunk, benefit from over 140 litres of storage.
ACCESSORIES
Launching alongside the 2025 PowerPlus family are a host of factory accessories and technology engineered to inspire personalization, add comfort, and even more technology.
Comfort
Personalized ergonomics are key to rider comfort. Indian Motorcycle offers several parts that allow riders to dial-in their fitment to their personal preference. For Indian Challenger and Indian Pursuit riders, Mitered Mid Ride Handlebars position the hand controls in a comfortable, elevated position, while also adding an aggressive, custom-inspired style. Available across the entire PowerPlus lineup are Rider Backrests, which increases support to the rider’s lower back and keep them in control mile after mile, and a 300 mm Flare® Windshield, which adds even more wind protection with an excellent view of the road ahead.
While standard on Roadmaster PowerPlus and Indian Pursuit, Chieftain PowerPlus and Indian Challenger riders can add even more comfort with the ClimaCommand Heated and Cooled Seat and Heated Grips. The ClimaCommand Seat offers adjustable heating and cooling for both rider and passenger via integrated buttons with haptics or via the RIDE COMMAND screen.
Technology
For riders seeking to elevate their experience further, options like an enhanced audio experience and an innovative Pathfinder Adaptive LED Headlight deliver advanced functionality and style. The Indian Motorcycle PowerBand Audio provides riders with an immersive listening experience that’s been expertly designed to cut through road, wind and throttle noise. The Pathfinder Adaptive LED Headlight utilizes patented, cutting-edge technology that monitors the bike’s lean angle on a real-time basis and delivers optimized illumination of the road ahead.
Personalization
Also available for upgrade are spacious Indian Motorcycle Headdress Floorboards, a Pinnacle Heel Shifter and Quick Release Low Profile Trunk. The spacious Headdress Floorboards add a custom-style touch, while the Pinnacle Heel Shifter offers convenience and comfort for riders who prefer heel-up shifts and toe downshifts. The Indian Motorcycle Quick Release Low Profile Trunk is factory engineered for bagger riders looking to add passenger comfort and more than 45 litres of storage space, while still maintaining a streamlined look. Quick Release technology allows riders to install or remove the trunk quickly and easily without tools.
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BMW Motorrad presents the BMW R 12 S. Exclusive special model as a tribute to the BMW R 90 S. 
Munich. With the BMW R 12 S, BMW Motorrad is expanding its Heritage range with a fitting tribute to the iconic R 90 S, which in 1973 not only set a sporty exclamation mark for BMW Motorrad with 67 hp and a top speed of 200 km/h in terms of riding dynamics.
Moreover, the then Chief Designer Hans A. Muth skilfully expressed the sporty ambitions in the design language and sent the BMW R 90 S, as the world's first production motorcycle, with a handlebar fairing designed according to aerodynamic aspects and a red-laid "90" in the R 90 S emblem of the engine, successfully into the race for the buyers' favour.
Racing successes helped the BMW R 90 S to achieve an iconic image.
It did not take long for the image of the R 90 S to also benefit from racing successes. For example, at the Production TT on the Isle of Man, where Hans-Otto Butenuth and Helmut Dähne celebrated a class victory in 1976. In the same year, Steve McLaughlin also won the prestigious 200 Miles of Daytona, and his teammate Reg Pridmore became the first AMA Superbike Champion in history. Also for this reason, an R 90 S is today, as it was then, one of the particularly sought-after BMW motorcycles.
The BMW R 12 S transfers the spirit of the R 90 S into the here and now.
More than the Concept Ninety study presented by BMW Motorrad in May 2013, the new BMW R 12 S takes up the spirit of the R 90 S in its overall concept as well as in many details and transfers it skillfully into the present day. Based on the R 12 nineT, it embodies an authentic and sporty retro bike and utilizes several ingredients that make up a skillful homage to the R 90 S.
"The defining design elements of our R 12 S include the handlebar- mounted cockpit fairing with the tinted windshield, the seat with contrast stitching, and the Lavaorange metallic paint finish as a nod to the legendary R 90 S Daytona Orange from 1975. The design is perfectly complemented by details such as the red-laid 'S' on the side covers, the red double line, and the brushed and clear-lacquered aluminium surfaces of the tank and seat hump," explains Alexander Buckan, Head of BMW Motorrad Design.
Generous standard equipment with Option 719 Wheel Classic II, Billet packs Shadow and Shadow II, Headlight Pro, Shift Assistant Pro, and much more.
The claim to a sporty retro bike is underlined by the R 12 S with numerous standard product features such as the Option 719 Classic II wheels with wire spokes and shiny, naturally anodised aluminium rims, as well as other high-quality components. The handlebars and fork tubes are in black, and the components of the Billet packs Shadow and Shadow II set particularly high-quality technical accents. Components of the Billet pack Shadow are the left and right ignition coil covers, the oil filler screw, and the cylinder head covers coated in Avus black metallic matt. The Billet pack Shadow II includes the footrest system including foot brake and gear shift levers, the pillion footrests, the hand brake and clutch levers, the expansion tank covers for the front brake and clutch, as well as the handlebar end mirrors.
Further standard features include the Comfort Package, which includes Hill Start Control, Shift Assistant Pro, Heated Grips, and Cruise Control. For even more safety during night rides, the adaptive cornering light Headlight Pro ensures better illumination of the road in corners.
Comprehensive program of optional equipment from the factory and Original BMW Motorrad Accessories for customisation.
The BMW R 12 S is based on the BMW R 12 nineT, and therefore all accessory products such as titanium exhaust systems, soft bags, or the navigation preparation can also be used for this motorcycle. For example, the already expressive dynamism of the lines can be further enhanced with the short rear end, which is available as an Original BMW Motorrad Accessory, and the black license plate holder attached to the swingarm. Additional factory-installed options are also available, such as Tire Pressure Control (RDC), Anti-Theft Alarm System (DWA), Intelligent Emergency Call, Connected Ride Control, and the digital display with micro-TFT display as an alternative to the classic round instruments.
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- Ten-year production run of the bespoke Ariel Ace motorcycle concludes
- Personalised specification and Gulf-type livery marks final model of exclusive and collectable Ace bikes
- Future may see more Ariel motorcycles continuing the company’s 150+ year two-wheel manufacturing legacy
Ariel Motor Company, the UK-based low-volume manufacturer of ultra-lightweight road, track, and off-road vehicles, has announced that the last Ace motorcycle has now been delivered to its owner. Marking the end of a decade of production, the final model nicknamed ‘The Last One’ was the last of the 1,237cc Ariel Ace motorcycles built at the home of Ariel in Crewkerne, Somerset.
Released in 2014, the Ace had a machined billet aluminium frame, and a Honda V4 engine mated to a manual or DCT gearbox, it also featured multi-configurable options – including Ariel’s own girder forks. With the ability to configure bikes to individual specification, from Cruiser to Café Racer, the Ace also spawned several limited editions: the Ace R, the Ace of Diamonds, the Iron Horse, and the Black Edition.
Every Ace motorcycle was a bespoke build to each customer’s personal specification. ‘The Last One’ was just as special, featuring a one-off ‘Gulf’ type livery, signed by the entire Ariel team. As with all Ariels the bike was constructed, start to finish, by one technician – the honour of the final build went to experienced Ace technician, Joe Green.
Joe Green, Ariel Technician: “It felt like a big moment to send off the last Ace motorcycle. We’ve loved creating these bespoke works of art and we look forward to each returning for scheduled servicing – it’s like seeing old friends again.”
The company’s long tradition of two-wheel manufacturing spans more than 150 years. Today, Ariel remains on two wheels with the new titanium and carbon Ariel Dash E-bike, which is soon to begin production for customers. Although the last Ace motorcycle has been built, the future may still see further Ariel models.
Simon Saunders, Ariel Director: “The history of Ariel is steeped in bicycles and motorcycles, and we’re keen to ensure that this legacy continues to feed our future. We are already looking at the possibilities for a new, different Ariel motorcycle – so, watch this space!”
With Ace production now finished, the exclusive models produced over the last decade are set to rise in value as they become collectors’ items. Ariel retains the original prototype Ace and a demonstrator in the company’s ever-expanding museum.
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