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AUCTION LIVE: 396-Powered 1950 Mercury Eight Coupe Custom

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This 1950 Mercury Eight coupe was modified under previous ownership by Bo Huff Customs of Carbon County, Utah. The car is finished in black with orange accents over black leather upholstery, and power is from a replacement 396ci V8 paired with a replacement four-speed automatic transmission. Additional modifications include a chopped roof with a tan canvas cover, a replacement grille and bumpers, shaved trim and door handles, and stacked headlights as well as a hydraulically adjustable suspension system, four-wheel powered disc brakes, and Vintage Air climate control. The current owner acquired the car in 2012, and subsequent service involved replacing the spark plugs and changing the oil. This modified Mercury Eight is offered by the seller on behalf of the owner with a South Carolina title in the current owner’s name listing the car as a Mercury 505.

BID ON IT NOW: Less than 4 hours left

https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1950-mercury-custom-2/

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BaT Essentials:

Seller: JimmiVonHaas

Location: Taylors, South Carolina 29687

Listing Details

  • Chassis: 50SL86985
  • 272 Miles Shown, TMU
  • Replacement 396ci V8
  • Replacement Four-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Black Paint w/Orange Stripes
  • Tan Canvas Roof Cover
  • Black Leather Upholstery
  • Chrome-Finished Steel Wheels
  • Disc Brakes
  • Hydraulically Adjustable Suspension
  • Chopped Roof
  • Frenched Taillights
  • Shaved Trim & Handles
  • Replacement Bumpers & Grille
  • Vintage Air Climate Control
  • Power Window & Locks
  • Jensen Cassette Stereo
Private Party or Dealer: Private Party
Lot #124468

The body was shaved and tunneled with a chopped roof, stacked headlights, and frenched taillights before being refinished in black with orange side stripes under prior ownership. Additional modifications include a tan canvas roof cover, spotlights, and decorative side pipes. The grille was reportedly sourced from a 1953 DeSoto, while the split bumpers are from a 1956 Pontiac. The left rocker panel is dented, crazing is visible in the paint, and scratches are present on the body panels.

Chrome-finished steel wheels wear polished hub caps and are wrapped in Coker classic wide whitewall tires that show age. Stopping power is from four-wheel powered disc brakes with red-finished calipers. The car has been channeled over the chassis, and equipment includes front and rear suspension components that were reportedly sourced from a Chevrolet Monte Carlo and are hydraulically adjustable.

The cabin houses swiveling front bucket seats and a rear bench that were reupholstered in black leather under prior ownership. A color-coordinated headliner, door panels, and carpets have been fitted, and cedar wood trim accents the center console and armrests. Additional features include Vintage Air climate control, power windows and locks, a glove box, sound-damping material, and a Jensen cassette stereo. The dome lamp lens is stained.

The four-spoke woodgrain steering wheel is mounted on a tilt-adjustable powered steering column, and center-mounted instrumentation includes a 120-mph speedometer as well as gauges for oil pressure, coolant temperature, voltage, and fuel level. The six-digit odometer shows 272 miles, approximately 25 of which were added by the seller. Total mileage is unknown.

The 396ci V8 was installed under prior ownership and is equipped with a finned Hilborn-style air intake, a Holley carburetor, Mickey Thompson valve covers, and an aluminum radiator. Service under current ownership included changing the oil and replacing the spark plugs.

Power is sent to the rear wheels through a replacement four-speed automatic transmission. Corrosion is visible on the underside, and additional underbody photos are presented in the gallery below.

Magazine articles featuring the car are included in the sale.

The South Carolina title carries an Exempt brand, and a reproduction VIN tag is affixed to the firewall.

396-Powered 1950 Mercury Eight Coupe Custom

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Harley-Davidson X 500 model specs for USA

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Qianjiang-Produced Harley-Davidson X 500 is expected to be available in USA from 2024.

US-specific owners manual has been published by Harley-Daivdson. The X 500 was announced for the Chinese market in April, and later for Australia and New Zealand, but the newly published owner’s manual assures a U.S. launch.

There are distinct changes compared to the 2023 owner’s manual, adding information specific to the American market such as a U.S. vehicle identification number (VIN). The manual’s VIN breakdown specifically details the codes for models manufactured by Qianjiang in China for export to the United States.

Warranty information and a clause marked as “Other Limitations” included six items in 2023 manual but for year 2024 manual there is an addition of a seventh item. This addition states United States customers are not allowed particular modifications that are not approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or the California Air Resources Board. A definition of tampering with noise control or exhaust emissions control systems is mentioned. These were absent for the manual meant for Chinese market.

X 500 is the second model to be produced under the partnership between Harley-Davidson and Qianjiang, following the X 350. The smaller engine model was not intended for US market as per Q1 2023 report, though X350RA variant to be used by Harley-Davidson’s Riding Academy.

It is expected the people and dealerships (and media) will react fast & furiously to a Made-in-China Harley-Davidson being sold in USA.

We can expect the same liquid-cooled 500cc Parallel-Twin engine, claiming 47 hp at 8,500 rpm and 33 lb-ft. at 5,000 rpm. The claimed wet weight remains 456 pounds, and the fuel economy is unchanged, still claiming 49 mpg. Valve inspections are scheduled for every 15,500 miles.

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Buell Super Cruiser Pre-Orders at over $100 Million

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Combining the performance of a sports bike with the laid back nature of a cruiser Buell is grabbing attention with its Super Cruiser. It is a motorcycle model designed in collaboration with legendary motorcycle designer Roland Sands.

Buell started taking pre-orders soon after they first unveiled the bike in February 2023. Not only has it received a tremendous demand but they got an “unprecedented support” for this new model.

Six months after opening pre-orders for the Super Cruiser, Buell already amassed a whopping $120 million in pre-orders. This goes to show that neither motorcycling nor interest in the brand has waned over the years. Harley-Davidson must be restless, having sold this wonderful brand, trying to diminish its value.

 

According to Bill Melvin, the CEO of Buell, the demand for the new model marks a first for American V-Twins, “Americans love style, muscle, and performance. The Super Cruiser breaks the mold for all three, and the response shows that Buell simply nailed it. This is utterly unheard of for an American V-Twin.”

Once the bike enters production in 2025, it’s anticipated to carry a retail price in the $20,000 to $30,000 range.

About the specs– running on a 1,190cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected V-twin engine with a maximum power output of 175 horsepower and 101 pound-feet of torque — it rides on 17-inch wheels with fully adjustable suspension, and even adjustable handlebars and footpegs for any rider to tailor the ergonomics exactly to their liking. With a dry-weight of 450 pounds, it is surprisingly light for its power class, as an American V-twin.

In a press release by the company, Bill Melvin highlighted the huge potential Buell holds in the market, “Now, the overwhelming demand for the Super Cruiser puts Buell on a trajectory for significant long-term growth. This ramp-up will be nothing short of exhilarating. Anyone interested in joining us for this exciting ride – in any capacity – should reach out now. We want to work with you.”

Check out the introductory video:

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Kawasaki Ninja: First Hybrid Production Model Motorcycle

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Kawasaki claims the first strong hybrid motorcycle to enter mass production

Just after the brand announced its first electric motorcycles they have introduced the first hybrid motorcycle. Unlike the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1, the 2024 Kawasaki Ninja 7 Hybrid aims to be more than an urban commuter or entry-level motorcycle.

Kawasaki declares the Ninja 7 Hybrid is the first mass produced motorcycle (excluding scooters) from a major manufacturer with a “strong hybrid” system. This means it can run on gas, electricity, or a combination of the two.

Despite the 7 in its model name, the Ninja 7 Hybrid is to be equipped with a liquid-cooled 451cc Parallel-Twin. Kawasaki hasn’t provided more details about it. Kawasaki claims the engine produces 58.3 hp, which is actually more than the Eliminator produces. Supplied photos of the TFT display show an indicated max speed of 11,000 rpm.

When using an electric motor it increases output to a possible 68.5 hp of hybrid net power. This puts the Ninja 7 Hybrid slightly ahead of the Ninja 650 and Z650 which claim 67.3 hp at 8,000 rpm.

Sport-hybrid, Eco-hybrid, or EV are the three riding modes which will provide different riding characteristics, offering a focus between performance or fuel economy. Fuel economy is expected to be on par with a 250cc class motorcycle.

Other unique aspects are its clutch and idling features along with an Automatic Launch Position Finder function.

The Kawasaki Ninja 7 would likely be presented in silver and black colors with a lime green lower fairing, and is expected to arrive in European showrooms in January. U.S. availability remains to be determined.

Watch the Kawasaki announcement video:

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Friggin’ Economies of Scale

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by Ujjwal Dey with images & illustrations by Wayfarer

In Harley-Davidson’s desperate search for volume sales, Will there be a smaller Harley-Davidson X210 in India?

X440 is already the smallest engine – perhaps too small of an engine – to be considered a ‘real’ Harley for those who can actually afford to buy it. A rumoured Harley X210 may share the same design elements as the current X440.

The smaller H-D is rumoured to be powered by the same 210cc single-cylinder engine found in the Hero Karizma XMR.

Have a look at this editorial story giving you the background and the ground zero of Harley-Davidson’s new speculated adventure.

Click Here to read this article, only on Bikernet.com

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Kawasaki KX 50th Anniversary Edition Motorcycles

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2024 KAWASAKI KX™450, KX™450X AND KX™ 50th ANNIVERSARY EDITION MOTORCYCLES

THE BIKE THAT BUILDS CHAMPIONS

Over the last 50 years, the Kawasaki KX™ brand of motorcycles has helped pave the path to championships for the some of the most popular motocross racers of all time. Today, the KX family remains one of the most dominant motocross and supercross brand of motorcycles available, with the all-new KX™450 once again raising the bar. With development cues taken from the Monster Energy® Kawasaki factory racing team, the all-new 2024 KX450 is one of the strongest and race-ready machines on the dirt. To commemorate the celebration and success of 50 years of the KX brand, Kawasaki is pleased to announce the release of 50th Anniversary Edition motorcycles. Equipped with a limited retro-inspired KX shroud graphic, a Uni-Trak swingarm graphic, blue seat, silver wheels and white fork guards, the 2024 KX250 50th Anniversary Edition and the KX450 50th Anniversary Edition motorcycles will spark nostalgia and tug at the heartstrings of motocross enthusiasts across the globe.

ALL-NEW 2024 KAWASAKI KX™450 HIGHLIGHTS:

• NEW Engine tuning
• NEW Cylinder head
• NEW Straight exhaust port and center exhaust
• NEW Smartphone connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP KX*
• NEW Handlebar-mounted traction control switch
• NEW Brembo brake system
• NEW Lightweight aluminum perimeter frame
• NEW ODI Lock-On grips
• NEW Easy-to-remove side cover
• NEW Slim ergonomic bodywork
• NEW Kawasaki TRaction Control and riding modes

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Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 is EPA Certified for US

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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency certified a new Royal Enfield model branded as Shotgun 650 for year 2024. This confirms the production version of the SG650 bobber concept will be coming to America.

Royal Enfield presented the SG650 Twin concept at EICMA way back in 2021. Based on the platform that brought us the Continental GT and Interceptor 650, this concept motorcycle combined retro styling with a future-forward silver and blue livery.

Since that unveiling, Royal Enfield introduced the more classically-styled Super Meteor 650 which used a similar chassis. Development of the bobber version will continue and give us a new model to be called ‘Shotgun 650’.

SG650 concept is a single seat, with mid footpeg placement, handlebars positioned lower and further forward compared to the Super Meteor.The production model may look similar to the concept bike. Its headlight cowl incorporates Royal Enfield’s familiar combination of a round instrument cluster and smaller Tripper navigation display.

It is expected that Royal Enfield will officially debut the production version of Shotgun 650 at EICMA, where it first showed off the concept version.

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Lively mid-sized scrambler: Honda SCL500

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The 2023 version has plenty of range and iconic style, that is sure to attract new and seasoned riders alike.

The SCL500 is a mid-sized scrambler that is light on kerb weight, approachable for new and skilled riders and has plenty of power and fuel tank for highways. Its an ideal motorcycle for new or casual rider and even upgrading commuters who don’t wish to ride smaller bikes. Experienced riders can return to sporty riding when needing a change from cruising on their touring motorcycles.

Honda SCL500 is powered by 471cc parallel-twin engine with six-speed transmission. Front and rear ABS are standard. 19-inch front and 17-inch rear cast wheels come paired with Dunlop Trailmax Mixtour tires.

There are noticeable elements from Honda Rebel, obviously the shape of the fuel tank, and the engine itself. Its a very reliable, proven engine. A host of aftermarket accessories are available.

Pros:
Lightweight and nimble
So many customization options
Perfect tour-to-camp bike for anyone

Cons:
Sensitive throttle at slow speed
Dash hard to see in rain/mist
Can’t turn off ABS for off-road riding

2023 Honda SCL500 Specifications
Engine Type Liquid-cooled parallel-twin four-stroke
Displacement 471cc
Bore x Stroke 67.0mm x 66.8mm
Valve Train DOHC; four valves per cylinder
Compression Ratio 10.7 : 1
Lubrication System Wet sump
Clutch Type Wet, Multiple Disc
Starter System Electric
Transmission System Constant Mesh, 6-speed
Final Transmission Chain
Fuel System PGM-FI with 34mm throttle bodies
Frame Tubular steel
Rake 27°
Trail 4.3 inches
Front Suspension 41mm fork; 5.9-inch travel
Rear Suspension Dual shocks with five-position spring-preload adjustability; 5.7-inch travel
Front Brake Single 310mm disc with two-piston calipers; ABS
Rear Brake Single 240mm disc, ABS
Front Tire 110/80-19
Rear Tire 150/60-17
Seat Height 31.1 inches
Wheelbase 58.4 inches
Curb Weight 419 pounds (claimed, ready to ride)
Fuel Tank Capacity 3.2 gallons
Warranty One year, unlimited mileage

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Kawasaki KX™ Brand Celebrates 50th Anniversary

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50 YEARS OF DIRT DOMINATION

KAWASAKI KX™ BRAND CELEBRATES 50th ANNIVERSARY

Making its motocross racing debut in 1973, the Kawasaki KX™ motocross lineup has served as the bike that builds champions for many of the sport’s brightest stars. This year, the Kawasaki KX lineup celebrates 50 years of dirt domination.

Over the past 50 years, Kawasaki KX motorcycles have dominated at the pinnacle of off-road racing, collecting an industry-leading 63 combined AMA motocross and supercross championships as well as 720 victories in AMA professional racing. Kawasaki’s impressive list of champions who have relied on their KX motorcycles to take them to the top step of the podium starts with Jimmy Weinert in 1974 and include all-time greats such as Jeff Ward, Ricky Carmichael, James Stewart, Ryan Villopoto, Eli Tomac and current Monster Energy® Kawasaki factory riders Jason Anderson and Adam Cianciarulo.

The development of the revolutionary technology for the KX lineup has remained constant throughout the years in Kawasaki’s pursuit of victory. These technological advancements include the Uni-Trak® rear suspension in 1979, disc brakes in 1980, and the perimeter frame in 1989. The Kawasaki Team Green™ support program was established in 1981 to support all Kawasaki riders at major amateur motocross events, and has helped turn aspiring young riders into future champions. Recent innovations include the DFI® system with dual injectors and launch control mode in 2012, but in 2019, Kawasaki engineers took the KX brand a step further by introducing both electric start and a hydraulic clutch to an already impressive list of features found on its flagship KX™450. Today, the KX™250 and KX™450 remain poised to continue their industry-leading charge and have adopted FIM World Superbike-derived technology from the Kawasaki Racing Team (KRT) efforts such as the finger follower valve train, ensuring KX riders have the power needed to get to the checkered flag first.

Throughout the world, Lime Green continues to be recognized as the color of Kawasaki, and for over 50 years, KX machines have proudly worn this color that has serves as the color of victory.

To celebrate this milestone, Kawasaki will be sharing historical content throughout this year featuring some of the greatest technological innovations, racing moments and other memories from the past 50 years.

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Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Review

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by Jason Marker from https://www.rideapart.com/

2023 Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Review

$3,999 for a good-looking, thoroughly modern motorcycle with ABS, fuel injection, and a bulletproof engine is a steal no matter how you slice it.

My toxic trait—or, well, one of the many at any rate—is that when I buy a product I expect a level of quality in that product commensurate with its price. As you can imagine, in this day and age I spend a lot of my time disappointed. What if I told you, however, that I recently rode a bike with one of the best cost-to-value ratios I think I’ve ever ridden? In fact, probably one of the best cost-to-value ratios on the market today. What if I then told you that it was a Royal Enfield—specifically Enfield’s new Hunter 350? Well, I did and it was and I’m here to tell you all about it.

Read the full review for 2023 model of Hunter 350 by clicking here.