by Daniel Patrascu from https://www.autoevolution.com At the end of last week, drag racing fans were back in business as the Denso Spark Plugs NHRA U.S. Nationals at the Lucas Oil Raceway in Indianapolis took place. A lot of interesting things happened there, including an appearance by the 1,400 hp electric Mustang Dragster and some demonstration runs with Harley-Davidson LiveWire motorcycles. A couple of days ago the Milwaukee bike maker released a very short video showing the highlights of the LiveWire runs with riders Andrew Hines, Eddie Krawiec, and Angelle Sampey holding the handlebars. As it was, the video showed nothing impressive, as fast, drag racing motorcycles we’ve seen before. Socially-distanced people in the stands seemed to confirm nothing spectacular happened, as they seemed unimpressed with what was happening down on the strip. As such, few could have anticipated records being broken. Only that they were (sort of), and Harley confirmed this with an announcement made on September 10. As per the bike maker, one of the three riders, Angelle Sampey (who usually rides a FXDR Pro Stock) accelerated the LiveWire to the records of best elapsed time and top speed. In short, the LiveWire covered the eighth-mile distance (201 meters) in 7.017-seconds and the full quarter-mile (402 meters) in 11.156 seconds, while reaching a top speed 110.35 mph (177.6 kph), which is a bit more than the official top speed of the motorcycle. “Let me tell you what’s amazing,” said Sampey in a statement. “That was the first time I rode the LiveWire. I could not wait to get it on the track. The LiveWire is so easy to ride. Just twist the throttle and go, and you really go!” So, great numbers, and that made Harley confident enough to claim it set the all-new records for an “electric-powered production motorcycle on a drag racing course.” So, this is the baseline for future electric bikes to beat. But given how there is virtually no competition in the electric-powered production motorcycle segment on the drag strip at the moment, it’s like Harley crowned itself the ruler of an empty realm.

by Silvian Secara from https://www.autoevolution.com

It packs a perfectly balanced blend of vintage and modern styling that guarantees to leave you speechless.

Let’s be frank; when it comes to performance and reliability, the breathtaking Thruxton R tends to completely overshadow its predecessor, Triumph’s 2013 Thruxton 900. Nonetheless, the folks over at Nova Motorcycles went above and beyond to convert this undistinguished two-wheeler into something truly exceptional.

To give you a better idea as to how far this project has come, we’ll start by having a look back at what the original machine was made of. It is brought to life by a four-stroke parallel-twin powerplant, with a generous displacement of 865cc. At around 7,400 revs, the air-cooled DOHC is good for up to 68 bhp, along with 51 pound-feet (69 Nm) of torque output at 5,800 rpm. A five-speed gearbox is tasked with transmitting this force to a chain final drive.

The whole thing rests on KYB 41 mm (1.6 inches) forks with adjustable preload at the front, accompanied by chrome spring twin shocks and a double-sided swingarm at the rear. Thruxton 900 rolls on a pair of multi-spoked aluminum wheels, with a diameter of 18 inches up front and 17 inches at the back. Stopping power is handled by a single 320 mm (12.6 inches) floating disc and Nissin two-piston floating caliper at the front, joined by a 255 mm (10 inches) rotor and a two-piston caliper on the opposite end.

Now, when it comes to impressive custom builds, the Nova Motorcycles crew isn’t messing around! As of 2013, the firm was co-founded by Sayer Anthony and Pete Chilton in Turners Falls, Massachusetts. In our day and age, the team prides itself with a plethora of magnificent projects. As you browse their stunning portfolio, you will come across an astonishing 2013 Thruxton 900-based work of art that might just have you drooling.

After the stock model’s arrival on their doorstep, Nova kicked things off by collaborating with local aftermarket manufacturers to craft several one-off components, including a Kevlar-reinforced fuel tank and carbon fiber front fender from Tannermatic, as well as a new triple clamp and headlight brackets from Cofab Design, to name a few. Besides countless Motogadget items, you will also find a Motodemic Adaptive LED unit and one gorgeous leather saddle, upholstered by Counterbalance Cycles.

Additionally, a unique subframe was fabricated in-house to support Thruxton’s slim tail section. It goes without saying that the latter incorporates more LED goodness. Nova installed Driven Racing clip-ons that wear Brembo and LSL levers, joined by a Motion Pro REV2 throttle module.

Next, the parallel-twin mill was blessed with a set of Web Cam Racing camshafts and K&N pod filters. It exhales through a custom two-into-one exhaust from British Customs. The bike’s suspension was treated to an Andreani Misano cartridge kit for the front forks, coupled with dual K-Tech Bullit 360 mm (14.2 inches) shocks on the other end.

Last but not least, braking power is taken care of by a Brembo setup, while the wheels are hugged tightly by Michelin Pilot 4 rubber.

And there we have it, ladies and gents. For an even better idea as to what Nova Motorcycles are all about, you may delight your eyesight with the rest of their masterpieces by visiting their Instagram or Facebook pages. I’ll have to warn you though, their tasty inventory might have you scrolling for quite some time!

from https://www.expressandstar.com

Special model is limited to just 100 units in the UK.

Suzuki is marking its 100th anniversary with the introduction of a new limited-edition GSX-R1000R.

Limited to just 100 units in the UK, the special-edition models boasts a retro-inspired paint job, which harks back to the firm’s race bikes from the 1960s. It’s the same as the one worn by the GSX-RR MotoGP motorcycle, too.

It’s priced at £16,999 – £400 more than the regular model – and is set to go on sale in October.

The GSX-R1000R takes many design and technology elements from the GP racer

Jonathan Martin, Suzuki GB’s head of motorcycles, said: “With just 100 of these bikes available in the UK this is a unique opportunity to own and be a part of Suzuki history. The GSX-R range, and the 1000 in particular, has long been the flagship range of sportsbikes with an illustrious history both on road and on the race tra ck.

“To mark 100 years of our Suzuki company it was only fitting to adopt the retro-inspired livery of bikes that have achieved and contributed so much to our history.”

The bike produces 199bhp

It uses the same 999cc, 199bhp engine as you’ll find in the standard production model, but also benefits from 10 traction control modes which give riders a variety of different settings to choose between. It’s joined by a quickshifter, launch control and autoblipper in a long list of standard equipment.

It also shares the same variable valve timing system as the GP racer, which helps to boost both power and torque. A lean angle-sensitive ABS system is fitted as standard to further improve cornering performance.

We made some major improvements to our Flat Out Vest, plus they are made with a softer leather. This is our traditional styled vest but with 5-Ball touches, like no collar, deep gun or phone pockets, our exclusive media pocket and hidden hand pockets.

You will always receive bling, including a 5-Ball Bikernet Bandana, a 5-Ball embroidered patch and a signed book about the fight for motorcycling freedom.

Each vest has a secret documents pocket and a pocket specifically designed to hold your shades.

It’s all class yet packed with function.

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We are Living in the Best of Times

Hey,

I had a blast in Sturgis. I was tested two days ago, and I have never been contacted by the Chinese Covid. I was much more likely to get it if I stayed in LA. But they seem to leave that side of the equation out. The odds of getting covid from a rally rider is 1 in 1,200,000. Supposedly 700 become infected every day in LA. Only 250 got infected somewhere (maybe not in Sturgis) during the Rally period, like three weeks. Daily you have a 1 in 17,462 chance of catching it every day in LA.

Freedom and Motorcycles Work, but some folks can’t stand it.

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JARED MEES GOES 1-2 at Springfield Mile Doubleheader to REGAIN FIRST PLACE FOR INDIAN MOTORCYCLE RACING

Indian Motorcycle Privateer Sammy Halbert Secures First Win Aboard FTR750;

Wrecking Crew Rider Jared Mees Continues Perfect Podium Streak

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (September 9, 2020) – Indian Motorcycle Racing, presented by Progressive Motorcycle Insurance, and its championship-winning FTR750 race bike completed a perfect sweep at the Springfield Mile doubleheader. While Indian Motorcycle Privateer Sammy Halbert secured his first win aboard the FTR750, Wrecking Crew Rider Jared Mees captured his third win of the season and continued his perfect podium streak.

At Springfield Mile I, Halbert and Mees battled early in the Main, but Halbert was too fast and captured the win with nearly a two-second lead. Mees hung on comfortably to finish second, while Indian Motorcycle Privateer Jeffrey Carver Jr. edged out fellow Indian Motorcycle Privateer Brandon Robinson to take the last spot on the box.

“It was so great to see Sammy come out to the legendary Springfield Mile and get his first win on the FTR750,” said Gary Gray, Vice President – Racing, Technology and Service for Indian Motorcycle. “He’s been a fierce competitor for several years, so to see him having success with Coolbeth and the FTR750 is truly special.”

The second round was nothing short of spectacular, as Mees, Carver Jr., Robinson, as well as reigning champion and Wrecking Crew Rider Briar Bauman all battled at the front of the pack. While Robinson ran in fourth for most of the race, he slowly gained ground on the group and made a strong push for the win. Mees held his position and was able to secure his third win of the season by a mere .043 seconds. Although Carver Jr. was running fast all day and was in position to make a push for the win, a mechanical malfunction caused him to dramatically fall to the back of the pack with only a few laps remaining. Bauman, the beneficiary, hung in there and made his way to his fifth podium of the season.

Through six races, Mees is again at the top of the leaderboard with 132 points. His perfect podium streak includes three wins, two second-place finishes and a third. After finishing seventh and third at the Springfield Mile doubleheader, Bauman falls back to second with 119 points. Halbert remains in third with 95 points, while Robinson is fourth with 88 and Wrecking Crew Rider Bronson Bauman completes the top five with 81 points.

The 2020 AFT season will continue on September 11 and 12 at the Williams Grove Half-Mile doubleheader. For more information on Indian Motorcycle Racing, visit IndianMotorcycle.com and follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

With a Bandit’s Life Test Story Line

Hey,

This is a test with Sam’s Picks of the Week as a backdrop. I’ve been bugged about a book about my life. But my life is checkered with ups and down and violent does and don’ts. So, this is sort of an attempt at an outline or rough story line. There won’t be a lot of description, just brief reflections on events.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THIS PHOTO FEATURE ON BIKERNET

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by Dustin Wheelen from https://www.rideapart.com

Harley-Davidson has been trying to find its way in a rapidly modernizing world for years now. In the saga’s latest installment, the Milwaukee-based brand ditched Matt Levatich and installed Jochen Zeits as the new President and CEO, changes have been swift and steady. From potentially nixing the Bronx to creating a Chief Digital Officer role, the new regime is implementing its Rewire plan without batting an eye.

With the company projecting jobs cuts in 2020 and speculation that the Street lineup will bite the dust, many Indian outlet are reporting that Harley’s Bawal factory could soon shut down. As the MoCo shifts its Asia Pacific operations to Thailand, talks with Mahinda & Mahinda, Hero Motocorp, and Bajaj are only fueling more rumors about the American brand’s future in the country.

Similar to KTM’s partnership with Bajaj or BMW’s TVS deal, the Bar and Shield could be seeking an affiliate to manufacture midsize motorcycles for the Indian market. Harley’s courters also include auto industry heavyweight Mahindra & Mahindra. As the owners of Classic Legends, the brand behind the Jawa revival and current BSA name-holders, the subsidiary could match the Motor Company’s retro aesthetic and satisfy its need for a global supply chain.

We should note that spokespeople from all brands involved are refusing to comment on the potential partnerships at this moment, but the talks certainly align with Zeits’ cost-cutting efforts. While the brand plans to focus on high-potential segments and markets, a presence in India is key for global success. Harley seems to be moving forward with its China-exclusive model 338R, and a similar tactic could benefit the MoCo in India.

We may be reading the tea leaves at this moment in time, but with cruiser sales continuing to dwindle in the U.S., Harley’s global presence will be more important than ever. Catering to the two most populous countries and the largest motorcycle markets in the world will be critical for the brand’s future. For now, we’ll have to wait and see if the company’s Indian factory closes by the end of the year and whether that begins a whole new phase of Harley’s ever-evolving modernization plan.

by Daniel Patrascu from https://www.autoevolution.com

There’s only one mainstream bike maker with an electric motorcycle on the market: Harley-Davidson. The Americans launched the LiveWire last year, hit a few snags along the way, and now the entire thing looks like a lost bet.

Maybe it’s the fact that the world is not yet ready for electric motorcycles – we lost track of how many startups came and went while promising a revolution in the industry – or it could be that Harley really messed up the LiveWire, but the reality is riders do not really flock to dealers to order one.

Truth be told, the bike maker itself didn’t make a big fuss about the electric two-wheeler, and kind of left it fending for itself because, well, it really has no competition.

That approach is about to change as of this month. Harley is finally putting some big names and some more dollars behind promoting the bike, in the hopes its fortunes would change.

Starting September 18, people with an Apple TV+ subscription will have the chance to see what the LiveWire is really capable of. After all, it did travel over 13,000 miles (21,000 km) from the city of Ushuaia in Tierra del Fuego to America’s West Coast, ridden by Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman as they were shooting their Long Way Up show.

And also from September, expect to see it more on the drag strip, just like it happened this past weekend in Indianapolis, where the NHRA U.S. Nationals took place.

Three Harley riders – Andrew Hines, Eddie Krawiec, and Angelle Sampey – enjoyed themselves between races by taking the LiveWire down the strip in exhibition runs, trying to convince people an investment in the LiveWire would not be a bad idea.

Don’t expect anything spectacular to have happened. There’s a short video below this text with the highlights of the Harley runs, but don’t look forward to records being broken or the crowds going wild with excitement.

 

from https://en.mercopress.com

Royal Enfield, a classic English motorcycle brand but now belonging to an economic group from India opened on Tuesday its industrial complex in Campana, Argentina where it commenced the manufacturing of three models.

The Campana factory in Argentina is the first country to make the motorcycle outside India with an investment of some US$ 80 million and the creation of 100 jobs.

Besides the Indian company authorities, the inauguration counted with the attendance of Argentine president Alberto Fernández, the governor of Buenos Aires province, Axel Kicillof and the Development minister, Matias Kulfman, who also announced the government’s plan of soft credits for the purchase of the motorbikes in 48 installments at an interest rate half the estimated inflation.

The Indian group in Argentina is represented by SIMPA, which also imports other world motorcycle brands, such as KTM, Husqvarna, Vespa, Aprilia, Piaggio, Moto Guzzi and Can-Am.

Martin Shwartzm the Simpa group operations head said the three models which are to be built in the factory are the Interceptor and Continental GT (both 650cc) and the world famous double purpose Himalayan, with a 411cc engine.

Although a percentage of the motorcycle parts are imported, the three models to be manufactured in Campana also have a percentage of Argentine parts.

“This production development not only has created jobs but with the manufacture of parts in Argentina, allows for more accessible prices”, president Fernandez said.

Royal Enfield to commence local assembly of three of its motorcycles in Argentina

from https://economictimes.indiatimes.com

Royal Enfield on Wednesday said it will commence local assembly of its motorcycles in Argentina in partnership with Grupo Simpa, its local distributor in the country since 2018.

This will be the first time in Royal Enfield’s modern history that motorcycles will be assembled and produced outside the company’s manufacturing facilities in Chennai, India, the company said in a statement.

The local assembly unit in Argentina will be based at Grupo Simpa’s facility located in Campana, Buenos Aires.

“To begin with, the plant will locally assemble three motorcycle models – the Royal Enfield Himalayan, the Interceptor 650 and the Continental GT 650 – starting this month,” it added.

Commenting on the development, Royal Enfield CEO Vinod K Dasari said: “Royal Enfield has been working steadily to grow and expand the middleweight motorcycling segment globally and also to increase our footprint in important global markets.”

The company has grown its international presence significantly and now has a wide retail presence across 60 countries, he added.

“With a strategic view to cater to growing demand and to gain significant market advantage, we have been pursuing our plans to set up local assembly units across specific markets in the Asia Pacific region and across South America. In the first of these, we are very happy to announce the first CKD (Completely Knocked Down) assembly plant in Argentina,” Dasari said.

Argentina, which is among the biggest mid-size motorcycle markets in Latin America, and other South American countries have been an important market for Royal Enfield.

“Ever since we commenced sales since 2018 in Argentina, we have received a resounding response to our motorcycles from consumers. The local terrain and topography create the perfect canvas for riding our motorcycles, especially the Himalayan. The initial success of the 650 Twin motorcycles has also been very encouraging,” he said.

Dasari said Royal Enfield is deeply committed to focusing on becoming a part of the fabric of the country’s rich motorcycling culture.

“Our decision to start assembling our motorcycles in Argentina is testament to our long term commitment and increasing confidence in the market,” he added.

Royal Enfield had set up retail operations in Argentina in March 2018, with its first store in Vicente Lopez, Buenos Aires.

Since then, it has expanded its retail network and currently has 5 exclusive stores in Argentina. Overall, Royal Enfield has 31 exclusive stores and 40 other retail touchpoints in all Latin American countries.