| | Biker News - Regularly updated
Category: Motorcycles
-
From the Track to the Street, New FTR x RSD Super Hooligan Inspires Riders to Unleash their Inner Hooligan
Designed with Race Graphics and Premium Performance Componentry
Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, today announced a collaboration with Roland Sands Design (RSD)® on a limited-edition FTR. Expertly designed by Indian Motorcycle and Roland Sands®, the all-new FTR celebrates the RSD® hooligan lifestyle – a “run-what-ya-brung,” bar-banging spirit of unbridled, fearless freedom found in this style of motorcycle racing.
From the track to the street, the FTR x RSD Super Hooligan inspires riders to unleash their inner hooligan. The all-new limited-edition FTR features Black Metallic bodywork with authentic Super Hooligan race graphics, a classic Indian Motorcycle Red frame with matching wheels featuring gold accent, and Indian Motorcycle Racing’s No. 1 championship logo on the front and side number plates. For an extra layer of authenticity, the FTR x RSD Super Hooligan features race team sponsors’ logos on its rear seat cowl. Additional graphics for the radiator shroud, front fender, and front forks will be supplied to owners for optional application. These premium components were thoughtfully curated to deliver an authentic, race-like experience to the rider.
“The term ‘hooligan’ has taken on an entirely new meaning in the world of motorcycles, characterised by a rebellious, fearless attitude that places having fun on a motorcycle above all else, and that’s what this new FTR is all about,” said Aaron Jax, vice president, Indian Motorcycle. “Roland Sands has blazed this trail and built the RSD brand around the hooligan lifestyle. From spinning laps on dirt ovals on mid-size cruisers, to today’s competitive racing within the MotoAmerica series, the ethos of hooligan riding has not changed.”
“Super Hooligan has always been about more than just racing. It’s about pushing boundaries and having a blast riding motorcycles with your friends,” said Roland Sands, Founder of RSD. “Far from the full fairing machines you normally see on the racetrack, a Super Hooligan bike has effortless attitude and a custom aesthetic with an exposed powertrain. When Indian Motorcycle approached us to codesign an Indian FTR for consumers, it was a natural fit, and something we were very excited to be a part of.”
Built upon the FTR R Carbon model, the FTR x RSD Super Hooligan offers performance branded parts and premium ride-enhancing technology. Fully adjustable Öhlins® inverted front forks and rear piggyback shock delivers exceptional ride and handling, while dual-disc Brembo® brakes provide ultimate stopping power. The bike’s 101 mm round touchscreen display powered by RIDE COMMAND offers vital bike and ride information, selectable ride modes for a customisable ride experience, along with Bluetooth and USB connectivity. The capabilities of RIDE COMMAND allow riders to take control like never before by enjoying seamless integration with their smartphones, tracking ride routes, keeping up to date with automated alerts of the motorcycle’s maintenance and health. In addition, an AkrapoviÄ® muffler and heat shield add style and improve sound, while Gilles Tooling parts, including adjustable rear-sets, oil cap, radiator cap, and bar-end weights, add to the bike’s premium finish – delivering authentic RSD Hooligan race style for the rider.
Interested riders should contact their authorised Indian Motorcycle dealer as soon as possible to reserve their individually numbered FTR x RSD Super Hooligan bike. Just 150 from the total of 300 will be available outside of North America and international shipping starts immediately.
Brembo® is a registered trademark of Freni Brembo S.p.A. Corp of Italy; AkrapoviÄ® is a registered trademark of Igor AkrapoviÄ; Öhlins® is a registered trademark of Öhlins Racing AB CORPORATION SWEDEN; RSD®, Roland Sands Design and RSD Super Hooligan are registered trademarks of Roland W. Sands; Unless noted, trademarks are the property of Indian Motorcycle International, LLC.
article supplied
-
Triumph Motorcycles is the latest winner of the prestigious Torrens Trophy. The award was presented to Triumph staff during a glittering event last night at London’s Royal Automobile Club.
The Torrens Trophy has been awarded to Britain’s highest achievers in motorcycling and motorcycle racing – riders, engineers, manufacturers, and important personalities within these worlds – since the 1970s.
Former racer Barrie Baxter, Chairman of the Torrens Trophy Nominations Committee said: “It gives us enormous pleasure to award the 2023 Torrens Trophy to Triumph for its amazing work in the Moto2TM World Championship, motorcycling’s number two grand prix series. The company has provided engines for the entire Moto2 grid for the past five seasons, proving to the world that its engineering and technology can thrive in arguably the toughest bike racing series of them all”.
Moto2 is the final stepping stone towards MotoGP – the Formula 1 of motorcycling – so the 32-rider grid is packed with hungry young talents who will let nothing stand in their way as they fight their way to the top of one of the world’s most challenging sports.
It doesn’t really need to be said that these riders demand everything and more from their engines, which must therefore be capable of surviving serious abuse. During Triumph Racing's five years in Moto2 its three-cylinder 765 engines have covered more than one million kms, achieving 95 race and outright lap records, enabling 21 different riders to win a Moto2™ race.
Surely no other motorcycle engine has had such a tough time over the last half-decade! And yet the Triumph 765 has shone throughout, providing superb performance – nudging 190mph at MotoGP’s fastest tracks.
Triumph Racing has thus done a great service to the MotoGP paddock and to the Triumph name, proving that a renowned brand has risen again to prove itself at the very forefront of high-performance motorcycling.
Nick Bloor, Triumph Motorcycles CEO added: “This award is a real honour, and a tribute to the hard work and passion of our Triumph Racing team. Our world-class engineers are always looking at new ways to enhance the engine performance, from speed, power and torque, to revs, cylinder pressure and compression ratio. This has enabled us to deliver improvements on track each season, from shorter race times to faster top speeds, which has contributed to closer, even more exciting, racing.
“Moto2 is also an excellent platform to showcase the durability, reliability and class-leading performance of our 765 triple engines on the road. Over the last five years we’ve used the race engine programme to drive enhancements and gain insights that we’ve used to further develop and evolve our new Street Triple 765 range, which has successfully driven demand and sales across the world. It’s a partnership that we are excited to be continuing until 2029.”
First established in 1902, Triumph Motorcycles has been based in Hinckley, Leicestershire for more than three decades, and has produced iconic bikes that perfectly blend authentic design, character, charisma, and performance. With 86,653 motorcycles delivered in calendar year 2023, Triumph is the largest British motorcycle manufacturer.
It’s been a remarkable story of courage and commitment, combined with superb engineering and brilliant knowledge of the marketplace.
The reborn company enjoyed its first significant racetrack success when Jim Moodie won the 2003 Isle of Man Junior TT aboard a race-prepped Triumph Daytona road bike. It was the brand’s first TT victory since a Triumph Trident road bike won the 1975 production TT.
Since then, the company’s machines have won other important international successes, including the USA’s hugely prestigious Daytona 200-mile race.
Triumph’s five Moto2 champions since 2019 are Alex Marquez, Enea Bastianini, Remy Gardner, Augusto Fernandez and Pedro Acosta. Four of these riders will be in MotoGP this year and almost half the current MotoGP grid has scored grands prix victories on Triumph-powered Moto2 bikes – another massive testament to the power of Triumph.
This year Triumph Racing will also enter the motocross world championships for the first time, while also attacking the hugely popular American Supercross and Pro Motocross championships.
Previous Torrens Trophy winners
- 2022 Mike Trimby, for his tireless work to improve circuit safety and represent the riders, teams and commercial side of MotoGP.
- 2021 The Crescent Yamaha team for winning the riders’, teams’ and manufacturers’ titles in the FIM World Superbike Championship.
- 2020 Emma Bristow for claiming her seventh consecutive FIM Women’s Trial World Championship.
- 2019 Peter Hickman for his three Isle of Man TT victories and for setting the world’s fastest road race lap record of 136.415mph at the Ulster GP.
- 2018 Tai Woffinden for being the most successful British speedway rider in history.
- 2017 Jonathan Rea MBE for being the first rider to win three consecutive World Superbike Championships.
- 2016 MotoGP racer Cal Crutchlow for being first British rider to win a premier class World Championship Motorcycle Grand Prix in 35 years.
- 2015 Eleven-time TT winner Ian Hutchinson for his outstanding determination, courage and overcoming adversity to win multiple TTs.
- 2014 Shane ‘Shakey’ Byrne for becoming the first man in history to be crowned British Superbike Championship on four occasions (2003, 2008, 2012 and 2014).
- 2013 Tom Sykes for being crowned the 15th World Superbike Champion, the fourth from Great Britain and only the second rider to win for Kawasaki in the series for 20 years.
- 2008 World Superbike Champion James Toseland was awarded the Trophy for his immense contribution to raising the profile of motorcycle racing in this country.
- 1998 Ian Kerr of the Metropolitan Police for 20 years of tireless work in promoting safe and responsible motorcycling.
- 1989 BMW in recognition for its contribution to motorcycle safety through the development of its anti-lock braking system.
- 1981 Dave Taylor MBE for his vast contribution to motorcycle road safety.
- 1980 Transport and Road Laboratory.
- 1979 Lieutenant-Colonel Fredrick Lovegrove OBE.
The Torrens Trophy
The Royal Automobile Club has always had a close association with the motorcycling world. The Club formed the Auto Cycle Club in 1903, which went on to become the Auto Cycle Union in 1947. The first motorcycle race was held on the Isle of Man in 1905 for cars – two years before the first Tourist Trophy for motorcycles.
The Torrens Trophy recognises an individual or organisation considered to have made an outstanding contribution to the cause of safe and skillful motorcycling in the United Kingdom, or to have made an outstanding contribution of technical excellence to further the cause of motorcycling in the UK, or to have shown outstanding skill in international motorcycling sporting events in the United Kingdom.
The Torrens Trophy was first awarded in 1978 in memory of Arthur Bourne, a motorcycling journalist who wrote a column under the name ‘Torrens’. Arthur Bourne was also a Vice-Chairman of the Royal Automobile Club. It is awarded only when the Club feels that the achievement justifies it.
The Club’s Torrens Trophy Nominations Committee consists of Chairman and ex-bike racer Barrie Baxter, Royal Automobile Club Chairman Ben Cussons, double World Champion and past Torrens winner James Toseland, well-respected motorcycle journalist and TT winner Mat Oxley, commentator and former racer Steve Parrish, Club member Robert Bourne (son of motorcycle journalist Arthur Bourne, in whose memory the Trophy is awarded) and Queen of Bikers Maria Costello MBE, who has held the Guinness World Record for being the fastest woman to lap the Isle of Man TT course.
About the Royal Automobile Club
The Royal Automobile Club was founded in 1897 and its distinguished history mirrors that of motoring itself. In 1907, the Club was awarded its Royal title by King Edward VII, sealing the Club’s status as Britain’s oldest and most influential motoring organisation.
The Club’s early years were focused on promoting the motor car and its place in society, which developed into motoring events such as the 1000 Mile Trial, first held in 1900. In 1905, the Club held the first Tourist Trophy, which remains the oldest continuously competed for motor sports event. The Club promoted the first pre-war and post-war Grands Prix at Brooklands in 1926 and Silverstone in 1948 respectively, whilst continuing to campaign for the rights of the motorist, including introducing the first driving licences.
Today, the Club continues to develop and support automobilism through representation on the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and the RAC Foundation while promoting its own motoring events including the Club’s London Motor Week and the RM Sotheby’s London to Brighton Veteran Car Run.
The Club also awards a series of internationally recognised trophies and medals celebrating motoring achievements. These include the Segrave Trophy, the Torrens Trophy, the Simms Medal, the Dewar Trophy and the oldest trophy in motorsport, the Tourist Trophy.
article supplied
-
The only custom show 100% dedicated to Indian Motorcycles.
American Motorcycle Dealer “Approved” status.
Visionary and “Godfather of Baggers”, Brian Klock, joins as President of the Jury.
Pre-registration guarantees entry and includes three complimentary tickets.
Registrations are now open for the third edition of the Budweis Custom Indian Motorcycle Show (BCS) where passion, creativity, and the roar of engines come together in a celebration of two-wheeled artistry. The AMD-Approved event, and the only custom show to be 100% dedicated Indian Motorcycle, builds on the success of last year and promises an even grander spectacle with the entirety of hall R1 dedicated to the custom show during the Indian Riders Fest in ÄŒeské BudÄ›jovice (Budweis), Czech Republic, from June 13 to 16, 2024.
“There isn’t much in life that gets me more excited than a custom motorcycle show. As a designer and custom builder, I really feed on that creative energy. With the BCS totally focussed on Indian Motorcycle, it is a standout event for me. As a long time Indian Motorcycle fan from way back as a kid, the growth of this show in such a short time is food for my soul. The 2023 class winners were exceptional, and I’m looking forward seeing the creativity and ingenuity infused in metal, chrome and paint at BCS24,” said Ola Stenegärd, Director of Product Design for Indian Motorcycle.
BCS24 is not just a display of chrome and steel; it is a celebration of the extraordinary craftsmanship of European custom bike builders and Indian Motorcycle dealers. Committed to fostering a community of creativity, the BCS welcomes builders of all levels, from aspiring rookies to seasoned veterans and with more exhibition space than ever before, the highly anticipated event promises an eclectic collection of innovative, and skilfully crafted motorcycles.
With its importance in the global custom scene recognised by American Motorcycle Dealer magazine conferring their approved show status to the BCS for a second year, the international judging panel is also bolstered by Brian Klock, President of Klock Werks, joining as President of the Jury. Inducted into the Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2012, Brian Klock is a standout name in the industry and is acclaimed as the “Godfather of Baggers” with a plethora of awards and a long association with Indian Motorcycle.
During the 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, Klock confirmed his acceptance of the Presidency saying, “Indian Motorcycle is near and dear to my heart. Having been part of the aftermarket advisory team since 2014 and designing many of the limited editions coming out of the factory, just like Ola, a custom show dedicated to Indian Motorcycle is something I’m really excited about. I cannot wait to meet everyone at Budweis next year and see their craftsmanship and incredible skills.”
Klock, his wife Vanessa, and other dignitaries including Stenegärd and Onno Wieringa, Official AMD World Championship photographer, will evaluate the entrants in seven distinct classes with one build also being awarded the prestigious Best In Show trophy.
In a shake-up to last year’s classes, the ClubStyle/Performance Baggers class has been introduced in keeping with current trends and, to allow even more creativity, the new Freestyle class is the only category where entrants do not need to be road legal. However, entries in all classes must be able to start and ride their builds onto the podium to accept their awards.
The seven classes designed to ensure that every participant has an opportunity to showcase their unique style and creativity are as follows:
• Indian Scout
• Indian Chief / Non-Fairing
• Indian Motorcycle Bagger
• Indian Motorcycle Vintage
• Indian FTR / Sportbike
• Indian Motorcycle Freestyle
• Indian Motorcycle ClubStyle / Performance Bagger
While ride-in entries will be accepted until Saturday, June 15, potential participants are encouraged to secure their spots through pre-registration. Pre-registration not only guarantees a place in the spotlight but also includes three complimentary entry tickets to the Indian Riders Fest 2024. Pre-registration closes on Friday, May 31, 2024. To register an entry, please use the form at:
www.budweiscustom.show/#BCS24form
article supplied
-
Suzuki has announced a GSX-S1000GX+, a pannier-equipped version of its new-for-2024 GSX-S1000GX which comes with an OTR price of £15,599, just £1,100 over the GSX-S1000GX. 
For customers looking for the added carrying capacity the GX+ offers, it represents a saving of £175 over the individual cost of the panniers and fitting. Moreover, including the genuine accessory panniers as part of the standard specification and price means even better value for customers buying on finance, too.
Two colour-coded, 36-litre panniers provide plenty of storage space, with each pannier capable of accepting a full-face helmet.
The panniers represent additional practicality for a machine built with all-day distance and riding comfort in mind. Topping the spec sheet is semi-active suspension from Showa, which has an automatic rear preload setting or three selectable options for solo riding, a rider and pillion, or rider and luggage. Riders can also select from soft, medium, and hard damping settings.
Cruise control features alongside seven traction control settings, encompassed within which is a roll torque control that uses a six-axis IMU to govern available power output when the bike is at lean. The IMU from Bosch also enables cornering ABS. There are three selectable power modes, and a bi-directional quickshifter.
All the information for which is displayed on a 6.5” colour TFT screen, with smartphone connectivity via the free Suzuki mySPIN app.
152PS and 106Nm of torque are provided by Suzuki’s revered, superbike-derived, 999cc inline four-cylinder engine, which is housed in a twin-spar aluminium frame.
-
When it comes to choosing the right motorcycle, the variety can be overwhelming. From the bustling city streets to the rugged off-road trails, each type of motorcycle serves a unique purpose. This guide will help you navigate through the different types and find the perfect ride for your adventures.
Standard Bikes
Standard motorcycles, known for their simplicity and versatility, are excellent all-rounders. They typically feature neutral ergonomics, making them comfortable for various body types. With engine sizes ranging from 125cc to 1,000cc, they are suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike. These bikes are adaptable to various accessories, including luggage and different seat types, making them ideal for city rides and occasional long-distance travels.
Cruisers
Cruisers, often synonymous with the iconic Harley-Davidson, are designed for comfortable, laid-back riding. Characterised by lower seat heights and larger engines (up to 1,000cc or more), they are perfect for both city cruising and longer weekend trips. The seating position in a cruiser is more reclined, offering a relaxed ride.
Sport Bikes 
Sport bikes are the epitome of speed and agility. Known for their forward-leaning position, they are lighter and designed for high maneuverability. With taller seat heights, sport bikes are suitable for more experienced riders who enjoy an adrenaline-filled ride. They are not typically the best choice for long journeys due to their sporty ergonomics.
Touring Motorcycles
Touring bikes are built for long-distance travel, offering large storage capacity and comfortable ergonomics for hours of riding. They usually have large fairings to protect against the wind and are equipped with large engines to handle extra gear. These bikes are ideal for riders who love long, exploratory journeys.
Sport Touring
Sport Touring bikes combine the best of both sports and touring worlds. They have better luggage options than sport bikes and are usually taller than touring motorcycles. Suitable for both short rides and long trips, they offer mid-range to large engine sizes.
Dual Sport (Adventure Sport)
Dual Sport motorcycles are designed for versatility, capable of handling both on-road and off-road conditions. They usually feature taller seat heights and off-road tires. These bikes are perfect for riders who enjoy both city commutes and adventurous off-road excursions.
Scooters
Scooters are ideal for city environments, offering easy maneuverability and efficient fuel consumption. They are light, low to the ground, and perfect for navigating through traffic. With engine sizes ranging from 50cc to 500cc, scooters are great for short, urban commutes.
Choppers
Choppers are custom motorcycles known for their unique, exaggerated features like wide tyres and high handlebars. Originating in the 1950s, choppers prioritise style, often at the expense of handling and safety. They are a favourite among enthusiasts who value personal expression in their rides.
Enduros
Enduros are designed for off-road and on-road versatility. They have high seat heights and agile handling, suitable for both smooth roads and rough terrains. Big touring enduros also offer ample luggage space, making them ideal for long, adventurous rides.
Naked Bikes
Naked bikes, popular since the 1990s, are known for their minimal fairing. They expose more of the bike's technology, offering a raw and authentic riding experience. These bikes are favoured by riders who appreciate the aesthetics of motorcycle engineering.
Dirt Bikes
Dirt bikes are specifically designed for off-road use, particularly motocross. They are not suitable for public roads and are often used as sports equipment. These bikes feature tuned suspension and rough tyres, tailored for open-terrain riding.
In conclusion, the type of motorcycle you choose should align with your riding needs and preferences. Whether it's a leisurely ride through the city on a scooter, a long-distance journey on a touring bike, or an adventurous off-road experience on a dirt bike, there's a motorcycle out there for every rider. Remember, the journey is as important as the destination, and choosing the right motorcycle can make all the difference. 
Sources:
- Information on motorcycle types from the Motorcycle Legal Foundation: A Beginner's Guide to Types of Motorcycles
Information on motorcycle types taken from autodoc.co.uk
article supplied
|
