If you live in a crowded urban area where slow speeds and limited parking is the norm, then the Honda Monkey could be a great mode of transportation for you. Honda has always been known for its sportbikes, like the CBR lineup, and scooters, like the Super Cub and Ruckus, but the Monkey is a …
The new 2021 Honda Fireblade CBR1000 RR-R SP was originally set to release this summer. But this sport bike is delayed until at least this fall, now. Those who are waiting to get in the saddle of a new Honda Fireblade will have to wait. Will the first time this bike sees US soil be …
In the US, Indian and Harley-Davidson understandably dominate motorcycle culture. But even today, as the Hayabusa’s situation demonstrates, the industry is strongly linked to Europe. And just like in the States, not every European nameplate enjoys widespread recognition. For every Ducati and BMW, there’s a Soriano and a Condor. Though, as Royal Enfield has shown, …
The Ducati Panigale and the iconic Honda Fireblade are each some of the fastest race-inspired bikes in production. The 2021 Fireblade (which should hit showrooms this fall) is one of the most exciting bikes on today’s market and a pretty parallel competitor with the popular Ducati Panigale. But is there one of these motorcycles that …
Though Japanese brands make some of the most affordable cruiser motorcycles, both Indian and Harley-Davidson offer bikes at reasonable prices. For Indian, that’s the Scout Sixty, now available in Bobber form. And for Harley-Davidson, it’s the Iron 883, heir to the Sportster name. But which entry-level American cruiser is best? 2020 Indian Scout Sixty vs. …
It’s very possible to spend six figures on a motorcycle these days. Not just on a new bike, but on classic, vintage, and antique models, too. Especially when it comes to motorcycles that offered high-performance or cutting-edge technology in their day. And the 1911 Pierce-Arrow Four that recently sold for almost a quarter-million dollars has …
Whether you own a car or a motorcycle, one of the most important maintenance items is changing your oil. Compared to replacing a clutch or a timing belt, changing your engine oil is relatively straight-forward. However, not only does modern motor oil come in many different varieties, there are a lot of oil grades available. …
While some early-20th-century motorcycles could handle triple-digit speeds, the first superbike coined as such was the 1969 Honda CB750. It wasn’t the first four-cylinder bike, or even the fastest bike at the time. However, it offered features never-before-seen on production bikes, let alone ones at that price point. But by the late 70s, it was …
Both of these incredibly fast motorcycles are fan favorites. The Suzuki Hayabusa GSX 1300 R motorcycle is a bit dated now, however, and the BMW S1000RR motorcycle has just been redesigned. While the ‘Busa remains a faithful steed for high-speed riding, the BMW has received numerous updates that give it more modern agility. Though there …
The fear of losing your balance is just one reason many stay away from motorcycles. Another is that, as on a bicycle, there aren’t any airbags or crash structures between you and oncoming traffic. Polaris, the company behind several UTVs and the reborn Indian brand, has something which seemingly addresses both issues: the Slingshot. But …
While a standard motorcycle, like the Street Triple R, is a good all-around bike, it’s not the best for every situation. For relaxed, long-distance riding, a cruiser motorcycle makes a bit more sense. And, while some cruisers come with large price tags, you don’t need to break your budget to afford one. There are a …
Whether you do it on a motorcycle or a truck, going off-road can be a lot of fun. However, to do it properly requires a fair bit of preparation, especially to your chosen set of wheels. Having enough ground clearance and the right tires are good first steps. And many vehicles designed for off-roading, such …
Paved roads aren’t the only places motorcycles can go—or race. Events like the Mint 400 and the Paris-Dakar see competitors jumping dunes, scrambling over rocks, and flying down gravel paths. As a result, off-road bikes have jumped in popularity in recent years. And included in that are flat tracker motorcycles. What is a flat tracker …
Infotainment has moved past just cars and has started finding its way into motorcycles. But before Harleys offered Apple CarPlay, bikers needed to find ways to communicate with the world outside their helmets. Not just with their phones or music, but with each other. For some time, Bluetooth headsets have been the standard for modern …
It’s rare that classic motorcycles offer modern-level performance with their vintage style. That’s what makes classic BMW bikes popular, for example. And typically, such performance is thanks to larger, multi-cylinder engines. But the Velocette Venom didn’t need an engine the size of the Munch Mammut’s to set a world record. A record that’s still in …
It’s possible to be too fast—that’s why the Dodge Demon was banned from drag racing, after all. But there’s car fast, and there’s motorcycle fast. In the 50s and 60s, café racers tried their best to do ‘the ton’: 100 mph. It’s hard enough, on very windy days, to stay on my relatively modern Street …
The influx of electric technology hasn’t only affected trucks and cars. More and more motorcycle companies, both established and new, are creating electric models. Some, like Zero and Cake, only offer electric motorcycles. And recently, another brand announced that it would, too. But while this is the first time Soriano Motori is building electric bikes, …
The Suzuki Hayabusa motorcycle has long been a favorite among American thrill junkies. Now, with the Honda Fireblade motorcycle finally coming to the US, buyers of street-legal racers may find themselves facing a difficult decision between these two bikes. How do these two sportbikes compare? The Honda Fireblade motorcycle is also known as the CBR1000RR-R. …
Whether you’ve spent a little or a lot on your motorcycle, you naturally want to keep it running well. Of course, that requires you to keep the bike in the first place. As with pickup trucks or bicycles, motorcycles can be and often are stolen. One way to prevent that is with a motorcycle lock, …
It’s definitely possible to have a great off-road bike adventure without going broke. But, as with cars, paying a bit more for a motorcycle, especially an ADV, sometimes does mean getting a few extra appreciable features. That doesn’t mean that you have to go for a company’s range-topping flagship motorcycle, though. In fact, $15,000 can …
While off-roading on 2 wheels can be done on dirt bikes and dual-sport motorcycles, adventure bikes trade some suspension travel for more comfort. And usually, the added refinement and tech comes with a higher price tag. But there are ADVs that let you hit the road and the dirt without going broke. The bikes that …
Sometimes, automotive technology—up to and including whole engines—ends up in motorcycles. And it’s not unheard-of for car companies to make bikes. Both Triumph and BMW are examples of that. But it’s rare for a motorcycle company to be resurrected as an automaker. And yet, that’s what happened to Ariel, the brand which makes the hyper-minimalist …
While it faces an image problem, Harley-Davidson does still make some impressive motorcycles. Especially when it comes to tourers and cruisers. Although some of its newer bikes can be fairly pricey, Harley’s reputation for design conservatism means used models offer similar looks at a discount. Unfortunately, many past Harley-Davidsons suffered reliability and quality-control issues, which …
As with classic SUVs, vintage motorcycles have risen in popularity in recent years. As have scooters, which is why manufacturers offer modern versions of icons like the Vespa and Honda Super Cub. But there’s another 2-wheeled form of transportation that’s also enjoying a cultural resurgence: the moped. What is a moped? Like motorcycles, mopeds have …
In an article about Ducati motorcycles on The Things, the difference between other bike prices and Ducati prices is posed as being the same as the difference between “I like it” and “I love it.” If you are willing to pay more for an Italian machine, you’ll end up with something fast built for long …
Increasingly-tougher emissions regulations make for interesting, and high-performance, motorcycle tech. For example, Yamaha’s getting back into turbochargers, for one. And Kawasaki is working on putting a manual transmission in an electric motorcycle. However, that’s not the only new bike the Japanese company seems to be developing. There are already rumors about the brand’s 200-hp supercharged …
Despite taking off from the line quickly, Harley-Davidson’s electric LiveWire hasn’t really taken off in terms of sales figures. And the American motorcycle company’s future as a whole doesn’t look terribly bright. Which is a shame for electric motorcycle fans, because the LiveWire itself is a well-made bike. But in making it, Harley should’ve taken …
Riding a motorcycle can be exhilarating, and even though it is one of the least practical vehicles you can possibly choose, motorcycle fans seem to exist in every state – yes, even Alaska. Motorcyclists are well aware that their choice of vehicle can be dangerous for any number of reasons. Outside of ideal weather conditions …
The Honda Gold Wing is a classic touring bike that has been around for decades. The Harley-Davidson Road Glide entered the seen in 1999 as another touring bike designed for long stretches of road and bit of adventure. How do these two popular touring motorcycles compare? When in comes to straddling your ride and hitting …
Battery-powered bikes, like other EVs, have benefits besides high performance. However, although electric motorcycles do generate fewer emissions, not all of their building materials are necessarily as kind to the planet. And for many potential owners, there’s always the question of, not just battery range, but battery longevity. Brooklyn-based Tarform’s Luna, though, is trying to …
With a $121,000 price tag, the Aston Martin AMB 001 is one expensive motorcycle. You could almost get 3 Harley-Davidson CVO Road Glides for that much. Or about 35 Honda Groms. But the AMB 001 isn’t the only pricey bike available for purchase. However, the rest of the world’s most expensive motorcycles might be easier …
Whether it’s on pavement or going off-road, long motorcycle trips require a certain level of comfort. That’s why many touring and adventure bikes feature heated grips, for instance. But there is such a thing as too much heat. That’s why motorcycle jackets and gloves have vents and mesh. However, that doesn’t really work if you’re …
The G-Wagon isn’t the only off-road vehicle with military history. Motorcycles were commonly seen transporting messages and troops—usually over difficult terrain. Today, those going off-road on 2 wheels prefer dual sports or adventure bikes. BMW is a popular choice for the latter. But decades before the first BMW ADV, the Swiss military turned to Condor’s …
Even outside of Henderson, American motorcycle companies have included more than just Harley-Davidson. And we’re not talking about Indian, either. In addition, even before Harley tried branching out into new segments, there was one American bikemaker that offered not just sports bikes, but innovative entry-level ones, too. That company was Buell. And although it’s still …
The all-new Honda CBR1000RR…-R Fireblade SP is coming to American motorcycle showrooms as a hulked up 2021 model of the familiar Honda CBR1000RR sport bike. There were apparently not enough Rs for this speedster––so Honda added more. Honda Powersports advertises this designated factory racer as “everything but the factory contract.” Named the Fireblade––presumably alluding to …
Despite its somewhat rocky financial position, Aston Martin’s not quite dead yet. And it’s actually branching out into the 2-wheeled segment—specifically, with motorcycles. But the upcoming Aston Martin AMB 001 isn’t a solo effort, though. To develop it, Aston Martin called upon another iconic British company: Brough Superior. This isn’t Brough Superior’s newest bike RELATED: …
Although cars and motorcycles differ on a few maintenance items, they both need to be washed regularly. Giving your motorcycle a wash isn’t just about aesthetics, though. It removes contaminants, like bugs, which can damage the paint, and potentially cause rust. Unfortunately—or, rather, given how they can damage paint, fortunately—you can’t just take a motorcycle …
Many may recall the name Triumph from the past. Although the British manufacturer of small sportscars stopped selling its cars decades ago in the United States, the Triumph name has also been used in conjunction with Motorcycles. Just recently, however, Triumph branched out and included electric bicycles to its product portfolio. Bicycles and Sewing machines? …
Cooper Webb finished 2019 strong, earning the season title for Monster Energy Supercross. He’s still on the rise in the 2020 racing season––poised as the only rider with a fighting chance against current points leader Eli Tomac. Today we see if he rides his KTM 450SXF factory race build to victory. Webb could take the …
Today, some of the most popular bikes in a motorcycle company’s lineup are the retro-style ones. That’s something BMW knows very well. And not just because of the reception its own RnineT café racer and upcoming R18 cruiser enjoy. Classic BMW motorcycles have also become a trend in their own right. Classic BMW motorcycle history …
Even before the supercharged 200-hp Ninja H2, Kawasaki offered some pretty powerful motorcycles. And that includes cruisers. Today, the idea of a ‘power’ or ‘muscle cruiser’ isn’t that unusual. Harley-Davidson, Ducati, and (arguably) Triumph offer bikes that fall into those categories. But the 1976 Kawasaki KZ900 LTD was the first. How the Kawasaki Z1 led …
Italian bikes, especially classic ones, haven’t really had a reputation for reliability. And Ducati is no exception. The motorcycle company has been dinged in the past by Consumer Reports for its rather high rate of customer problems. Which, if you’re interested in buying a used one, isn’t reassuring. However, just as it’s possible to find …
The modern café racer trend arguably got its start with the Ducati Sport 1000. But Honda actually beat the Italian motorcycle company to it by a few decades. And the Honda GB500 Tourist Trophy didn’t just ape the styling of the 50s and 60s racers. In some ways, it’s arguably a more-accurate throwback than anything …
High-RPM redlines and more cylinders are usually how motorcycle companies increase performance. But Yamaha is going to use something that, while common in cars, isn’t really seen in bikes: forced-induction. Not a supercharger, like on the Kawasaki Ninja H2, though. Instead, Yamaha is re-introducing turbocharging to its motorcycle lineup. The Yamaha turbocharged bike news Performance …
When it comes to fast and famous sportbikes, the Japanese big four are often the first liter bike manufacturers that come to mind. But in 2011 everything changed. The Supertest World Association awarded ‘Bike of the Year’ to the German BMW S1000RR after its first year of production––on Japanese soil––and European motorcycle fans were validated, …
There are a number of excellent affordable motorcycles that you can take off-road. However, some may be nervous about bringing a brand-new bike to get banged up off-pavement. However, as is the case for most beginner bikes, the simple solution is to get a used motorcycle. It’s likely already been beat-up a bit. Plus, buying …
Off-roading on 2 wheels can be tricky—but it doesn’t have to be expensive. There’s a wide selection of modern affordable motorcycles with a degree of off-road prowess. But the best-suited are adventure motorcycles and dual sports. And, if you thought off-road adventures were outside your budget, the bikes described below sticker for under $10,000. Best …
Preparation is key for off-roading a truck or SUV. And it’s even more important if you’re going off-road on a motorcycle. However, getting ready for an off-pavement motorcycle adventure doesn’t have to be intimidating. Here’s what you’ll need. Picking an off-road motorcycle The first step is figuring out what kind of off-road motorcycle you’ll need. …
Buying a motorcycle is often as much about style as it is about performance or practicality. In terms of looks, Triumph does well on the retro front, with bikes like the Thruxton café racer. But the company also has sportier offerings, like the Triumph Street Triple R. I recently bought a 2012 model to serve …
Most recommended beginner bikes are fairly small so newer riders aren’t intimidated at balancing on and handling them. That’s in contrast to some of Harley-Davidson’s bikes. Even its cheapest bike, the Street 750, is about 100 pounds heavier than my Triumph Street Triple R. But Harley may have a solution that could attract new customers …
