A new elite-level custom motorcycle builder contest has been launched in the United States. The Ultimate Custom Bike Competition kicks off on November 12th, and will have 12 individual rounds of competition. The finale takes place during Daytona Progressive International Motorcycle Show, March 9-12, 2011. With more than 500 custom-built machines, the UBCSC is close to becoming tha largest cutom bike competition in North America. Read the full article »

Oscar-winning English actor Jeremy Irons rides a BMW R1200GS enduro bike in Hungary. The popular actor, who usually rides a BMW R1200RT, is currently filming the television series „The Borgias” in the Central European country and wanted another bike to use during his stay in Budapest. “I like working in Hungary, but I haven’t had the chance yet to get to know the country by motorcycle. I have been to Esztergom by car and I will definitely go back on a bike because I really liked it. Read the full article »

The market of compact electric motorcycles is growing fast. The newest member of this segment is the Volta EC-1, a small two-wheeler designed for environmental city riding. The bike features an agressive design and uses one electric engine. The EV-1 will be available in two versions: the smaller one delivers 11 kW (15hp), while the bigger one provides 30hp. The company didn’t release the specifications, but they say the bike has a range of 70km (43 miles) and the recharge is possible with a 220V household socket. Read the full article »

These are the first picture of the XTZ 250 Ténéré, a miniaturized copy of the big European adventurer, the XT1200Z Super Ténéré. The mini-adventure bike takes its styling from her sister, but its 250cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine produces a modest 23hp at 8,000rpm. The bike features a tubular steel chassis, cheap suspension and low-spec twin piston brakes. The 16-liter tank allows long rides without worrying about the refuel. The little Ténéré will carry a price tag of €5,400 in Brazil. Read the full article »

The Michigan State Police’s Precision Driving Unit tests cars, trucks and motorcycles for U. S. law inforcement agencies since 1974. Last month they performed their annual independent performance testing on four potential Police bikes: the BMW R1200RTP, Kawasaki Concours 14 Police, Harley-Davidson Road King and Electra Glide. The test included acceleration, braking times and lap speeds around a course. Curious about the results? Read the full article »

Kawasaki recently introduced the successor of its popular W650, the W800. We have a new video now of the machine which shows us the bike in detail. The machine features a parallel 2-cylinder 800cc engine with fuel injection that replaces the old carburetor system. The engine delivers around 70hp and plenty of torque at low revs. The power is transmitted to the wheels via a 5-speed gearbox. The classic-style bike uses a lightweight double-crade frame, telescopic fork at the front and dual shock absorbers with adjustable preload. Read the full article »

Harley-Davidson has reported a net income of $88.83 million for the third quarter ended September 26, 2010, compared to $26.48 million for 2009. For this period, net revenue from motorcycles and related products were $1,09 billion, compared to $1,11 billion for the third quarter of 2009. The manufacturer reported 7,7% decrease in motorcycle sales worldwide, including a 9,4% decrease in the U.S. The company posted a net profit of 40 cents per share from continuing operations. Read the full article »

Time flies, and before you know it Christmas is just around the corner. To make the annual gift hunt that much easier, MINI has put together a selection of the best ideas for all the family. The MINI Lifestyle Collection has something everybody will enjoy unwrapping under the Christmas tree. One of the items is the Unisex Jet Helmet which features a polycarbonate visor, quick fastener and antiallergic removable and washable lining. A Union Jack print and bonnet stripes provide a spotless retro look, while high-quality workmanship ensures the requisite protection. Read the full article »

Yamaha Motor India has now announced the launch of the FZ and Fazer Midnight Special Edition. The 150cc FZ and Fazer Series was introduced in 2008 in India, and the models gained immense popularity amongst youngsters. The manufacturer decided now to come up with a limited edition series, the Midnight Special. As the tag suggests, the bikes will be available in all black color concept with golden alloy wheel highlighting the exclusive looks of the FZ range. Read the full article »

In yesterday’s meeting, the European Commission presented the proposal for new type approval rules for motorcycles. The Commission proposes to abolish the 100hp limit in France, as well as the introduction of new requirements for tailpipes. The document also includes the mandatory ABS and other new rules for engine modification. FEMA (Federation of European Motorcyclists’ Associations) reminded the Commission that vehicle aspects represent less than 2% of motorcycle accident casuation factors and said, the mandatory approach is limiting consumer choice. Read the full article »