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.
The first QJ Motor-built Harley-Davidson machine is ready to hit the road.
Harley-Davidson has confirmed rumors and revealed 2023 X 350 in China. It goes without saying that the X 350 is a bike that marks a new milestone for Harley’s history. It’s their first foray into the sub-500cc segment in the modern era and the first two-wheeler to be crafted by their Chinese partner, QJ Motor.
Retro flair is prominent by the round instrument console, mirrors, and headlight shape, while the aerodynamic and brawny radiator shrouds, as well as the flat-track-inspired tail section, exude a distinctive charm. Interestingly, unlike Harley’s traditional cruisers, the X 350 is entirely devoid of chrome, further adding to its unconventional, surprisingly sporty appeal.
It has mid-controls, a low handlebar, and a tall 32-inch seat height that puts the rider in a more neutral position instead of the usual foot-forward, laid-back posture. A basic digital-analog instrument cluster reflects the fact that this bike was designed with a budget in mind.
H-D X350 is powered by a 353cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine borrowed from previous models in QJ Motor’s lineup. Producing 36 horsepower and 22.8 pound-feet of torque, the chain drive is matched with a six-speed manual gearbox.
Its recognizable fuel tank stores 13.5 liters.
Keep in mind that this motorcycle is exclusive to China and costs approximately $4,793. This is less than comparable motorcycles in the 300 to 400 cc category.
However, the X500 may be aimed at beginner market in USA and would be based on Benelli Leoncino. (Benelli being owned by QJ). It is expected that the Harley-Davidson will launch the X500 first in China and other Asian markets before bringing it home to USA and probably to Europe as well.
It’s one of the finest examples of this model known to still exist in 2023.
When you’re talking about highly collectible motorcycles, there are a few makes that consistently come up. Vincent. Brough Superior. Henderson. Occasionally, a rarity among rarities makes its way to the auction block, such as a Crocker Big Twin, or, if you’re really lucky, a Harley-Davidson Strap Tank. The latter extremely rare machine is what just took the honor of the top-selling bike at the 2023 Mecum Las Vegas auction, and one of the coolest things about it is that it’s lived in Wisconsin for its entire life.
As you can see in the video, as the bid amount quickly increased into the high six figure range, it still hadn’t met reserve. When it got to $850,000, the seller decided to lift the reserve—and indeed, that’s the selling price at which this pristine, beautifully restored, 1908 Harley-Davidson Strap Tank crossed the stage.
Under Mecum’s listing of its top ten bikes from this auction, it gives the total price (including all applicable fees) as $935,000.
For those unfamiliar, the Strap Tank is most definitely one of the most important models in Harley history—if not the most important.
This model is what evolved from William S. Harley and Arthur Davidson’s initial shed builds, and was the first model to roll out of the Chestnut Street—later Juneau Avenue—factory. It quickly established a reputation for the brand’s builds that endured through the decades.
As the story goes, 150 Strap Tanks rolled out of the factory in 1907, increasing to 450 in 1908. Of those 450 bikes produced in 1908, fewer than a dozen are thought to still exist in 2023—and far fewer in as correct a condition as this one.
What makes this particular example so special? As the story goes, Milwaukee businessman David Uihlein, heir to the Schlitz Brewing fortune, discovered it in a barn about 70 miles outside Milwaukee, all the way back in 1941. This bike was complete—so he brought it home, and kept it there for the following 66 years. It was restored at some point by noted vintage Harley restoration expert Paul Freehill, and the original tank, wheels, engine belt pulley, seat cover, and muffler sleeve were included in this auction.
There’s a rare piece of Johnny Depp movie history hitting the auction block … and the timing couldn’t be better for the motorcycle he used in “Cry-Baby” to pull in 6-figures.
The bike is ‘sick‘ … it’s a 1955 Harley Davidson Model K … and it’s the same one used on-screen in Johnny’s 1990 cult classic film.
The Harley is going up for sale through Kruse GWS Auctions and the opening bid is being set at $250,000 … with potential buyers needing to bid in $25,000 increments if they want to win Johnny’s movie ride.
If that sounds kinda steep, keep in mind the immense popularity wave Johnny’s riding since winning the defamation case over Amber Heard. Fact is, all things Depp-related are commodities nowadays.
The auction house says the Harley was the “picture bike” used throughout filming in principal photography … both on location in Maryland and also in Hollywood.
The bike’s changed hands over the years, and is currently on display in a museum in Branson, Missouri following years of displays in different exhibits across the country.
Also included in the auction is Janis Joplin’s mandolin, which she once gifted to Jimi Hendrix.
The instrument is hand-painted with flowers and phrases … including “Love Thy Neighbor” and Jimi’s name. The auction house says the mandolin’s been in a private collection for 20 years and is on the market for the first time. They estimate that it will go for $250k.
This 1940 Indian Four is said to have been restored under prior ownership and was acquired by the selling dealer in 2016. The bike is finished in dark red over a black frame and powered by a numbers-matching 77ci inline-four paired with a hand-shifted three-speed transmission. Equipment includes a sprung leather solo saddle, a chrome luggage rack, a side stand, a foot-clutch, a leaf-spring front end, a four-into-one exhaust system, a chrome engine guard, plunger shocks, 18″ wire-spoke wheels, and center and side stands. This Model Four is offered by the selling dealer in Oregon with a clean Michigan title.
It was sold on popular online automotive buy-sell auction website for Vintage and Classic vehicles: https://bringatrailer.com
Chassis: 440413
Engine: DD0413
305 Miles Shown, TMU
Numbers-Matching 77ci Inline-Four
Three-Speed Hand-Shifted Transmission
Dark Red Paint
Skirted Fenders
Cognac Leather Sprung Seat
Leaf-Spring Front End
Plunger Shocks
18″ Wire-Spoke Wheels
Four-Into-One Exhaust System
Chrome Luggage Rack
Private Party or Dealer: Dealer
Additional charges from this dealer: USD $0
Lot #72267
SOLD FOR USD 89,000 on May 06, 2022.
The bike was restored in dark red over a black frame under previous ownership. Equipment includes a side stand, a horn, footboards, skirted fenders, and sprung cognac leather solo saddle embellished with fringe and jeweled nailhead trim as well as a chrome luggage rack, engine guard, rear fender guard, frame guards, and center and side stands.
Wire-spoke 18″ wheels wear Coker blackwall tires. Suspension consists of a leaf-spring fork in addition to dual plunger shocks mounted on either side of the rear axle. Braking is from drums at both ends.
A chrome steering damper knob and cross-braced handlebar sit between the aluminum dash and polished headlight bucket. Instrumentation includes a 130-mph speedometer, an ammeter, a keyed ignition, a trip meter, and a five-digit odometer showing 305 miles, 10 of which have been ridden by the selling dealer. Total mileage is unknown.
The air-cooled 77ci inline-four produced 40 horsepower when new and is equipped with a single carburetor, a chrome air cleaner, Auto-Lite ignition, and a four-into-one exhaust with a ceramic coated exhaust manifold and chrome heat shield. An oil pressure gauge is mounted to the crankcase and an AGM battery with an Indian-style cover was installed by the selling dealer.
Power is routed to the rear wheel through a three-speed non-sequential transmission that is shifted using a tank-mounted hand lever on the right and a clutch pedal on the left.
The bike is titled by its engine number, DDo413, the last three digits of which match the number stamped on the frame, a photo of which can be viewed in the gallery.
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Family tracks down late Person County deputy’s motorcycle, surprises his son with it
ROXBORO, N.C. (WTVD) — Many motorcycles make long trips, but one motorcycle’s journey home took more than a decade.
This special bike belonged to late Person County deputy Mike Currier, who died from an illness in December 2021.
Currier used to take his son Austin on rides on his Harley-Davidson Fat Boy before he was forced to sell it during the difficult financial times of 2008.
During the years that passed, the motorcycle came into the possession of several different owners until it was purchased by Currier’s good friend John Walker.
During Currier’s hospitalization, Walker worked to track down the bike’s whereabouts with plans to surprise his friend upon his discharge from the hospital.
Though Currier died, his motorcycle would not stay lost to his family.
Currier’s family pitched in together to buy the long-lost bike back from Walker to surprise Currier’s son Austin, who just bought a new home.
Tears of joy fell as the Harley-Davidson, an unforgettable housewarming gift, pulled into Austin’s driveway, finally making its way home.
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Artistic rendering of my lovely-self from my first Bike Feature in Easyriders in 1971 – Bandit
Purchase, Pegs and Paint By Bandit with photos from the Redhead
It all started in the center of an odd South Dakota winter, 2022 and a hunt for a running Knucklehead engine. I found myself talking to several knowledgeable brothers in the industry and the price for Knucklehead engines climbed spectacularly. Hell, shit, piss, way beyond spectacular.
Steve Massicot at Paughco mentioned an old employee who needed funds and had a UL for sale. A complete bobber, although the running aspect was in question.
I remembered George Christie’s classic flathead with fatbobs. We rode to the Yuma River run in the early ‘70s.
As you know, I’m nuts and believe I can fix anything. Most bikers can, so I cut a deal, but UL Steve wanted cash….
NEW PRODUCTS NOW AVAILABLE!
KODLIN USA Universal License Plate & Sleek Lights For Touring Models
SLEEK LIGHTS 3-1 FOR TOURING MODELS:
• Super bright German engineered COB LEDs with run, turn and brake function
• Housing made from CNC machined billet aluminum
• Black or chrome finish
• Replaces rubber antenna grommets when factory antenna is relocated or removed.
• Comes with all necessary hardware for installation.
• We recommend the use of the Kodlin Curved Touring License Plate Kit KUS20100 / KUS 20101 (check license plate fitment applications).
• Sold in pairs!
• Fits HD Street Glide 2006-2013 FLHX, 2014-Up FLHX/S; Road Glide 2009-2013 FLTRX, 2015 and-Up FLTRX/S and Road King Special 2017-Up FLHRXS
K68496 Kodlin Sleek Lights 3-1 for Touring Models, Chrome K68495 Kodlin Sleek Lights 3-1 for Touring Models, Black Price: $249.99
UNIVERSAL LICENSE PLATE KIT FEATURES:
◦ Curved horizontal motorcycle license plate kit
◦ Frame is low profile aluminum construction
◦ Very bright white LED’s
◦ Frame dimensions: 7-3/16” length x 4-1/4” width, mounting hardware included
◦ Great addition to Kodlin Sleek 3-1 Rear Indicators
◦ Available in black or chrome finish
◦ Fits HD Street Glide 2013 FLHX, 2014-Up FLHX/FLHX/S; Road Glide 2013 FLTRX, 2015-Up FLTRX/S and Road King Special 2017-Up FLHRXS
KUS20101 Kodlin Curved LED License Plate Kit, Chrome KUS20100 Kodlin Curved LED License Plate Kit, Black Price: $159.99
CARDO UNVEILS THE ALL-NEW PACKTALK GENERATION – The PACKTALK EDGE. GREATNESS. REBORN.
Following extensive research and development, and a complete overhaul of the entire component make-up of the PACKTALK series, Cardo Systems is proud to announce a new generation of the world’s best motorcycle communications system, the all-new PACKTALK EDGE.
Key highlights include:
New slim modern design with no external antenna
New magnetic Air Mount for effortless and secure attachment of unit to helmet
Second-generation Dynamic Mesh Communication with faster and easier pairing process and wide-band intercom
Most advanced Bluetooth 5.2 Technology with “Live Intercom“ support and improved universal connectivity
Additional new features include over-the-air software updates and fast charging via USB-C
The new small, slimline, antenna-free unit, has been completely redesigned, boasting a whole host of new features as well as benefiting from all the user-favorite attributes of the previous generation, to make the world’s best motorcycle communications device, even better.
In 2015, Cardo Systems launched the world’s first motorcycle communicator to go beyond Bluetooth, with its introduction of Dynamic Mesh Communication (DMC). The state-of-the-art technology means the devices function with a self-adjusting network that not only automatically maintains a connection between up to 15 riders, but allows them to seamlessly join, leave and rejoin. The PACKTALK EDGE takes this technology one step further and boasts second-generation DMC connectivity with benefits including: an unparalleled deep wideband sound quality, a simpler and faster grouping process in DMC mode, faster pairing in Bluetooth mode, and Live Intercom Bluetooth support.
Helping cement its ‘edge’ over its predecessors, the PACKTALK EDGE has enhanced sound thanks to redesigned JBL speakers and three new sound profiles, attaches to any helmet using a new magnetic cradle for ease of use, and boasts universal fitment and has an improved noise-cancelling microphone. It also houses the most advanced Bluetooth 5.2 chip on the market for universal connectivity. The upgraded Natural Voice Operation engine also means that riders can continue to keep their eyes on the road, hands on the bars and activate their device by simply saying “Hey, Cardo.”
Other features include 13-hours battery life, USB-C and fast charging as standard – a quick 20-minute charge gives users two hours of ride time and 1.5-2 hours offers a full charge.
Over-the-air software updates via the Cardo Connect App, mean no cables or Wi-Fi adapters are required to ensure the PACKTALK EDGE device is loaded with the latest firmware.
Alon Lumbroso, Chief Executive Officer, Cardo Systems, comments: “The PACKTALK EDGE is the best communication device we have ever developed. With the ultimate audio performance in the industry, a novel Air Mount for rapid and secure attachment, and beautiful sleek, and clean design. The PACKTALK EDGE is a fantastic flagship to our extensive range of communicators. This latest offering is testament to Cardo’s three pillars – quality, purposeful innovation and user-first. Innovation is in our company DNA and we’re proud to translate that into a product for fellow motorcyclists.”
The new PACKTALK EDGE has an MSRP of $389.95/€389,95 – single and $699.95/€699,95 – duo and will be available from retailers in late April or alternatively, it can be ordered directly from www.cardosystems.com now. The PACKTALK BOLD will continue to be offered alongside the PACKTALK EDGE and available worldwide.
For more information about Cardo Systems, visit cardosystems.com or join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and see all the latest videos on YouTube.
About Cardo Systems
Cardo specializes in the design, development, manufacturing and sale of state-of-the-art wireless communication and entertainment systems for motorcycle riders. Since inception in 2004, Cardo has pioneered the vast majority of innovations for Bluetooth motorcycle communication systems and in 2015, it has also introduced the world’s first mesh powered communication protocol into the motorcycle market. The company’s products, now available in over 100 countries, are the world’s leading communication devices for the motorcycle industry.
ROYAL ENFIELD REVEALS ALL-NEW SCRAM 411 ADV CROSSOVER
Ready. Set. Scram!
Milwaukee, WI (Tuesday, March 15, 2022) – Royal Enfield, the global leader in the midsize (250cc – 750cc) motorcycling segment, today unveiled the Scram 411 – the brand’s first ADV crossover. The new Scram 411 is an engaging, accessible and capable street scrambler, with the heart of an adventure motorcycle. Built on Royal Enfield’s proven 411cc single-cylinder engine platform and the Harris Performance chassis, the Scram 411 combines spirited agility on urban streets, with competent rough-roading capabilities. Focused and purposeful changes in the riding geometry and ergonomics make it ideal for in-city riding, as well as unpredictable, challenging trails off the urban grid.
Unveiled for global audiences today, the new Scram 411 is already available in India, and will be available in Europe, Asia Pacific, North America and Latin America later this year. The Scram 411 is scheduled to arrive in the U.S. late summer/early fall. Pricing and colorways will be announced in the coming months.
The Scram 411 is a continuation of Royal Enfield’s constant pursuit of exploration, and building motorcycles to enable every adventure. One such motorcycle is the Himalayan—Royal Enfield’s flagship adventure tourer. Launched in 2016, the Himalayan has fostered a subculture of adventure touring around the world, most recently, even Antarctica’s South Pole. Its unique design and well-rounded capability make it among Royal Enfield’s best-selling motorcycles, and it is upon this stalwart platform that the style evolution continues with the more urban-focused ADV-crossover motorcycle—the Scram 411.
The all-new Scram 411 is a new subspecies that has the authentic vibes of a scrambler and adventure touring in its DNA. With long-travel suspension and class-leading ground clearance paired with a 19-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear, the Scram 411 is playfully agile on city streets, yet is highly capable of tackling more rugged terrain, so the exploration doesn’t end when the pavement stops.
Siddhartha Lal, Managing Director, Eicher Motors Ltd., simply loves the fluidity and the
multipurpose ability of the Scram 411. Speaking about this in the context of modern existence, he said, “Whether it’s London, New Delhi or Tokyo, the contours of modern urban existence are ever-changing. With our world increasingly becoming more fast-paced, life in the urban context has become about the weekday hustle and the weekend getaway, and everything in between. We wanted to build a motorcycle that could effortlessly navigate this entire gamut, and be the perfect ally for the young, modern-day rider. The Scram 411 is truly a motorcycle made for now, and is always ready to tackle whatever surprise is in store.”
Speaking about the inspiration behind the Scram 411, and about the new motorcycle, Executive Director, Royal Enfield, B Govindarajan, said, “The globally lauded versatility and competence of the Himalayan inspired us to reimagine the motorcycle in a more young, modern-day, urban context. The Scram 411 is the perfect crossover for young city-dwellers, who prefer a motorcycle that is fun and engaging to ride around the city, yet has a rugged appeal. By shifting the riding geometry to make the motorcycle more at home on busy city streets, and retaining its strong ability to take on rough roads and take on the weekend dirt trail, we’ve brought a unique subcategory for consumers. Like all our motorcycles, the Scram 411 is built for the global rider, and manufactured with world-class engineering. We also have an array of genuine motorcycle accessories and a vibrant apparel range inspired by the Scram lifestyle. This is a very exciting and spirited new motorcycle, and we are confident that young riders from across the world will love the new Scram 411.”
Mark Wells, Chief of Design at Royal Enfield, enjoys riding the Scram 411, and loves how easily it can navigate a wide spectrum of terrain and challenges. Speaking about creating a new subspecies of motorcycles, he said, “Most scrambler motorcycles focus only on aesthetics and looks. When we began work on the Scram 411, we were determined to create a motorcycle that would be distinct in design and purpose, and bring the best of rough-road capability to urban riding. With its distinctive look and design, playful colorways, accessible riding proposition, the Scram 411 is an ultimate ADV crossover for the urban environment.”
ROYAL ENFIELD SCRAM 411 – DETAILS & SPECIFICATIONS
The Scram 411 is powered by the globally appreciated 411cc, fuel-injected, 4-stroke, SOHC, air-cooled single-cylinder engine. The counterbalanced engine ensures smooth power delivery and strong bottom-end torque that elevates the overall performance. The wide spread of useable power makes it easy to manage over long urban commutes with minimum gear shifts, and the confidence-inspiring low-revving torque allows it to tackle bad road, and off-road sections easily.
Long-travel suspension and monoshock design, together with class-leading 7.8 inches (200mm) of ground clearance, the Scram 411 delivers a smooth and comfortable ride. The telescopic front suspension with 41mm forks and 7.4 inches (190mm) travel, pairs with 7.0 inches (180mm) travel on the rear, where the link-mounted monoshock enables stable and confident riding over rough roads. Front and rear disc brakes combined with dual-channel ABS, ensures confident braking.
The change in the riding geometry is brought about by the 19-inch front wheel and dual-purpose tire. This, combined with the 17-inch rear wheel, are key to the Scram 411 motorcycle’s nimble handling. The dual-purpose tires ensure a confident grip over tarmac and loose gravel for the ideal combination of on-road grip and rough-road tractability.
The seat on the new Scram 411 is designed for comfort over long saddle time. The single seat that reflects the urban styling of the motorcycle, offers great comfort for both rider and passenger. The accessible 31.2-inch (795mm) seat height enables and easy reach to the ground, making it easy to maneuver in stop-and-go traffic.
The Scram 411 features a new digital-analog instrument cluster that provides easy access to essential information. Circumvented by a traditional analog speedometer, the Scram retains this classic style element, also making for easy viewing.
WATCH THE Live Launch of the Royal Enfield Scram 411
More details, information and specifications on the North America-spec Royal Enfield Scram 411 ADV crossover motorcycle, including colorways, options, genuine accessories and pricing, will be released in the coming months. U.S. arrival is anticipated in late summer/early spring.
#readysetscram #scram411 #royalenfieldscram
About Royal Enfield
The oldest motorcycle company in continuous production in the world, Royal Enfield made its first motorcycle in 1901.
Royal Enfield North America (RENA) is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and is developing a growing network of more than 140 dealers in North America, including the contiguous U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico. RENA currently offers the all-new Meteor 350, Himalayan and the 650 Twins (INT 650 and Continental GT 650) motorcycles, along with a range of Genuine Motorcycle Accessories and apparel.
