Vintage-style bikes might be all the rage, but some can be quite expensive. Royal Enfield, though, has made a name for itself by offering more affordable options. The Continental GT 650, for example, combines café racer styling with modern reliability for less than, say, the Triumph Thruxton. And now, the Indian brand has a new …
Although a quality helmet is a definite requirement for riding a motorcycle safely, it’s just one piece of gear. Riders don all sorts of apparel to protect themselves, such as gloves and armored jackets. And that often includes putting on motorcycle boots or shoes. But what’s so special about this kind of footwear, and is …
This may seem a little wild, but it’s true. Subaru has officially broken out of the cars and SUVs marketplace and flown to new heights – at least on paper. Subaru has officially filed a patent application for a “land-and-air” vehicle in a real head-scratcher of a moment. As we dig deeper into the future, flying …
Today, sportbikes are just one of several kinds of motorcycles available to buyers. But, like with any other kind of bike, they didn’t just spring up out of nowhere. For example, the modern standard motorcycle evolved from the UJMs of the ‘70s. And while several sporty motorcycles came before it, the Honda CB400F Super Sport …
Whether used Suzuki or brand-new Ducati, sportbikes are the motorcycles of choice for dedicated track-day racers and handling aficionados. And like any other kind of bike, sportbike performance ranges from mild to extreme. However, there’s a distinct gap between a street-legal bike and a true racing machine. The 2020 Triumph Daytona 765 Moto2 Limited Edition, …
Sportbikes make for excellent fun, but these motorcycles are sometimes too extreme for every-day riding. More to the point, some aren’t approachable enough for newer riders. However, some bike companies are solving this by turning their sportbikes into less-hardcore naked bikes. The Ducati Streetfighter V4, for example, is a naked, slightly toned-down version of the …
Besides supercross and motocross, motorcycle racing doesn’t always get a lot of attention in the US. True, flat-track racing is experiencing a resurgence. But overall, compared to something like the Daytona 500, bikes often play second fiddle here. However, thanks to the Internet, it’s easier than ever to access international motorsports, including bike racing. And …
While you can theoretically ride a classic motorcycle regularly, it requires living and fiddling with older technology. Instead of fuel injection, for example, you have carburetors. And many motorcycles feature drum brakes rather than discs. However, is that something you can upgrade—and should you? How do drum brakes work on a motorcycle? Today, essentially all …
Today in the US, if you mention British bikes, Triumph is the first name that comes to mind. But it’s just one of several motorcycle brands that’ve sprung from the UK. While many have fallen into history’s pages, some, like BSA, have returned. It’s a similar story with another British marque, Clews Competition Motorcycles, aka …
Sometimes, it seems there are almost as many myths about motorcycle safety as there is genuine advice. And one that persists is the notion that ‘loud pipes save lives.’ I.e., the louder your motorcycle’s exhaust is, the safer you’ll be. But a new study has thoroughly debunked that. A Romanian study spells it out: ‘loud …
If you’re thinking about going off-roading on a motorcycle, buying a used one is a great way to save some cash. But there’s used, and then there’s classic. Naturally, the idea of taking a vintage bike off-road can seem rather daunting. However, while they don’t offer all the latest modern conveniences, some classic motorcycles are …
Take one look at the Polaris Slingshot and you’re bound to say, “What the heck is that?” We wouldn’t blame you, considering it’s not every day that you see a three-wheeled half-car, half-motorcycle thing rolling down the road. It definitely looks weird, but could you technically drive on every day? The Polaris Slingshot is technically …
As fun as motorcycles are, they are also full of safety hazards. One of the biggest safety hazards is visibility. Seeing and being seen is a key component to keeping each ride safe. Indian Motorcycle has recently filled out a patent application that indicates that they’re working to develop new lighting technology that would make riding a motorcycle safer. Indian hopes …
Just like what’s happening in the car world, more and more motorcycle companies are getting in on electric models. That includes a few resurrected brands, such as Soriano and BSA. But BSA isn’t the only British bike brand with an interest in EVs. Triumph is working on its own electric motorcycle—and it could look a …
Although used bikes are easier on the budget, buying a new motorcycle has its advantages. Among them, the fact that a new motorcycle comes with a factory warranty. But just like with cars, not all bike warranties are created equal. So, how do the different motorcycle brands available in the US compare? Is there any …
While not every rider needs or can get the most out of the Panigale V4, Ducati’s latest superbike does benefit the motorcycling world as a whole. For one, the Panigale’s design helped improve the latest Monster. And, as with luxury car marques, new high-end Ducatis make used ones more attainable. But sometimes, a motorcycle isn’t …
The naked bike segment has become a hotly-contested one amongst motorcycle companies. But while brands like KTM and Husqvarna offer solid entry-level models, there’s even more competition in the ‘middleweight’ portion. And while Yamaha only introduced its small-capacity naked bike, the MT-03, to the US in 2020, the larger MT-09 has been here for some …
Back in the ‘60s, the BSA Rocket 3 was also sold as a Triumph: the Trident. And today, not only does the British brand have its own Rocket 3, but now the Trident is back, too. Naturally, such a history means the 2021 Triumph Trident 660 is under a bit of pressure to succeed. But …
Covering Supercross in Arlington, TX this weekend got me thinking about another related sport that my family loves. Motocross is another epic battle of the bikes where athletes come from near and far, ride in the dirt, in an effort to prove themselves the fastest––and the season is right around the corner. Supercross might seem …
From different wheels to grippier tires and beyond, there’s a myriad of ways to modify your motorcycle’s performance. And while adding a supercharger or cutting curb weight helps boost speed, there are other options. For example, fitting your motorcycle with upgraded suspension components. But is it necessarily a worthwhile investment? How does your motorcycle suspension …
Ken Roczen, Cooper Webb, and Eli Tomac are in the top three spots at the Arlington, TX AMA Supercross 2021. As the riders take a quick test ride over the track before racing, it’s hard to tell who is going to take it tonight. The heats feel chill, everyone is laying low for the main. …
Although the Pan America 1250 is finally out, there’s one more Harley-Davidson bike that’s yet to officially break cover. That would be the upcoming ‘high-performance custom model.’ Since we don’t know the official name yet, most have dubbed it ‘Harley-Davidson Custom 1250.’ However, new trademarks suggest the production bike may bear a familiar name: Harley-Davidson …
While the Super Cub has certainly cemented itself in motorcycle history, it’s not the only influential Honda bike. The CB750, for example, was the first motorcycle called a ‘superbike.’ Then there’s the GB500 Tourist Trophy, which previewed the modern café racer trend by over a decade. This week’s Bring a Trailer bargain, though, is more …
Going for an extended test drive before buying a car is important, but it’s even more so for motorcycle shoppers. You won’t really know if you’re more comfortable on a cruiser or a standard until you ride them. Luckily, as with cars, motorcycle rentals from sites like Riders Share offer such opportunities. However, as Riders …
The motorcycle world is similar-ish to the car and truck one, but it operates under its own rules. Custom builders in the car world definitely have clout, but there is something different about custom builders in the moto world. Custom cars tend to exist in their own enthusiast corners, usually disassociated with the major manufacturers. …
Indiana-based Janus doesn’t just style its motorcycles to look like their classic forebears. The company’s hand-assembled and mostly hand-built bikes are designed around keeping things simple for their riders. That’s why, up until now, all Janus motorcycles have used a carbureted single-cylinder engine. But that changes with the new Janus Halcyon 450. The Halcyon 450 …
Out on the racetrack, the King of the Baggers crown belongs to Indian. But Indian competes with its main rival Harley-Davidson on the street, too. And it’s been that way ever since the original company was founded 120 years ago. In celebration of this anniversary, Indian is releasing a new limited-edition bike: the 2021 Chieftain …
The Grom is hard to beat as a brand-new beginner motorcycle, especially for those who’ve never ridden before. It’s light, compact, efficient, and cheap; but unlike a Vespa, it’s still a motorcycle. However, while the Honda Grom was never going to be a highway cruiser, there were some who wanted a bit more speed. And …
Café racers are some of the most popular kinds of retro motorcycles on sale today. And while some are purely about the aesthetic, others, like the Triumph Thruxton RS, channel the performance spirit of their ancestors. But for Jay Leno, there’s one bike that stands above the rest: the Egli-Vincent by Patrick Godet. A Patrick …
Apart from your helmet, one of the most important pieces of motorcycle gear is CE-certified armor. However, as vital as it is, an armored jacket isn’t necessarily on the cutting-edge of biker safety. That’s because you can now choose from a wide selection of motorcycle airbag jackets. But even though the latest ones offer some …
The 2021 Pan America 1250 is a distinct departure for Harley-Davidson. Apart from tweaking Ewan McGregor’s and Charley Boorman’s LiveWires, Harley hasn’t released its own adventure bike. The Buell Ulysses came close, but it didn’t wear a Harley-Davidson badge. So, does the Pan America 1250 have what it takes to compete? Which adventure bikes is …
Drones used to be these hyper futuristic devices that felt more like the Marvel Cinematic Universe than they felt real. These days drones are nearly as ubiquitous as microwaves. They deliver stuff, photograph, and film, and even put on spectacular light shows. The dirtbike and dual-sport worlds have really taken a shine to the films …
Changing things like the handlebars and wheels on your motorcycle isn’t always just about aesthetics. As with aftermarket mirrors, some modifications are as much about safety and comfort as they are about looks. Especially when it comes to handling-related accessories. And if you’re trying to improve your bike’s handling, one common recommendation is fitting a …
Although Harley-Davidson arguably established the cruiser motorcycle formula, plenty of other companies have introduced their takes. And not all of them from the States. BMW, for example, now has the R18. And thanks to its new engine, the Honda Rebel 1100 is a genuine Harley and Indian alternative. Plus, freshly updated from Britain, there’s the …
Usually, bobbers are associated with American motorcycles. For example, the latest Indian Scout Bobber. However, just like American companies have dabbled in café racers, so too have European brands released bobbers. And for 2022, British brand Triumph has updated its own Bonneville Bobber. What makes the 2022 Triumph Bonneville Bobber different from the regular Bonneville? …
Dual-sport bikes are some of the most capable vehicles on the market, period. By definition, they are tough, go-anywhere machines that have become the apple of many riders’ eyes these days. The segment is getting more and more popular, from small and simple dual-sports to the massive and tech-heavy BMW GS bikes. Well, you might …
While it makes several retro bikes, Triumph is arguably best-known for the iconic Bonneville. And for 2022, the entire lineup is getting an update. But there’s another vintage-style motorcycle that was also recently updated: the Moto Guzzi V7. So, now that these classic-looking bikes have been refreshed, which one should you pick? The 2021 Moto …
If the Jeep Wrangler is the King of the aftermarket in the 4×4 world, then Harley-Davidson is definitely the King in the motorcycle world. Harley peeps love to dress their big V-twins to the nines. Although Harley-Davidson does offer bolt-on big-bore kits and pistons and such, most Harley aftermarket stuff tends toward vanity, until now. …
With Harley-Davidson’s recent financial troubles, the fate of some of its concept motorcycles was uncertain for a time. But after the electric LiveWire ferried Ewan McGregor in Long Way Up, we learned that Harley was still planning on releasing the Pan America adventure bike. And now, it’s finally arrived. The 2021 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250: …
According to a recently completed French study, motorcycle lane splitting caused a 12% crash increase. Roads where motorcycle lane splitting isn’t allowed? Accidents were down 11%. The Federation of European Motorcyclists’ Assn., in conjunction with the Centre for Studies and Expertise on Risks, Environment, Mobility, and Planning; as well as the Fédération Francaise des Motards …
While riding a classic motorcycle can certainly be fun, it requires some additional upkeep compared to a modern one. Classic bikes have carburetors, for one, as well as older ignition systems and brake designs. Admittedly, you can upgrade or swap out these vintage components for modern parts that require less maintenance. But what about ditching …
Sometimes, a shuttered motorcycle brand comes back from the dead. It happened to Indian, after all, and Soriano. And some companies are resurrected more than once. Up until now, it seemed like Buell Motorcycles would just be another brand left by the wayside. But now it’s back for the third time. Buell Motorcycles and EBR …
Harley, Yamaha, and others are discontinuing a number of bikes in 2021. Some, we’re glad to see them go. But others are like old friends that have been around for years. Still, we know that with the old going out there is a lot of new coming in. So here are the motorcycles that will …
For every revived motorcycle brand like BSA, there’s an equal number of classic ones that still lay by the wayside. Here in the US, for example, we have historic brands like Henderson and Pierce-Arrow. And from Britain, we have marques like Vincent and Velocette. But there’s also Matchless. Matchless made its reputation through winning races …
Harley-Davidson is one of the most iconic and beloved motorcycle brands in the world. But when it comes to reliability, how does Harley-Davidson stack up?
If you’re looking for a solid affordable cruiser, the Honda Rebel lineup is a good place to start. And because of their smaller-capacity engines, the Rebel 300 and 500 also make excellent starter bikes for beginners. For 2021, though, Honda is giving its entry-level cruiser a bit more grunt in the form of the Rebel …
Vintage-inspired designs are found in every corner of the motorcycle world. That’s especially true for many of the cruisers Harley-Davidson and Indian offer. However, even historic models evolved over their lifetimes—why should their modern versions be any different? That’s why, for the 100th anniversary of the Chief, Indian is giving it a redesign. And it’s …
It’s hard to overstate the CB750’s impact on the motorcycle world. When it launched in 1969, its affordable performance and technology helped coin the term ‘superbike.’ It also launched the Universal Japanese Motorcycle segment, and inspired rivals like the BMW R90S. But the CB750’s status can overshadow some of the other contemporary Honda four-cylinder bikes—including …
While the original 1950s Super Cub was a humble motorcycle, it set the stage for Honda around the world. And in many ways, it helped change US consumers’ perspectives on motorcycles. But Honda didn’t jump straight from the Cub to bikes like the CB750 and the CBX. In addition to models like the CB360, Honda …
Any established company gets complaints. Professional and amateur critics unfailingly take issues with products. And when a company sells an extensive product line, not every offering is a hit. In fact, some are almost guaranteed duds. Despite Harley-Davidson‘s excellent reputation as a maker of quality bikes and its storied century-plus history, it has seen its …
It used to be that a black leather jacket was the traditional motorcycle rider calling card. Not just to other people, but to fellow riders as well. But while a Schott Perfecto is no longer de rigueur, the motorcycling community is still all about camaraderie. And part of expressing it is with the ‘motorcycle wave.’ …
