Like the acclaimed 2013 Custom Vehicle Operations™ Breakout ® model that precedes it, the Breakout features styling that’s smooth, tight, and intended to showcase the engine and the tires.

“With Breakout we got down to motorcycle essentials, which means emphasizing the powertrain and the wheels,” says Harley-Davidson Styling Manager Kirk Rasmussen. “The black and chrome engine visually pops out of the center the bike, and then to maximize the impact of the tires, the fenders are chopped. We wanted a lot of rubber showing to give the Breakout a tough, muscular look.”

Long and low-slung, the Breakout features a 240mm rear tire visually balanced with thick forks and chopped fenders, while a shaved tank console and a drag handlebar keep the profile low. A Twin Cam 103B™ powertrain and other components are trimmed in gleaming chrome and gloss-black paint. The new 10-spoke cast-aluminum Gasser wheels are finished in gloss-black powdercoat. A gloss-black finish is applied to the new cast-aluminum oil tank, as well as fork lowers, muffler shields and the wide, drag-style handlebar. The side-mounted license plate and combination stop/turn/tail lights leave the wide rear fender uncluttered.

The Breakout is available with ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) and the Harley-Davidson security system as a factory-installed option. The Breakout MSRP is $17,899 in Vivid Black, and $18,299 in either Big Blue Pearl or Ember Red Sunglo.

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“Today we’re announcing the release of the final model for 2013, but we are really excited to give everyone an early look at some incredible new machines for 2014,” said Powersports Press Manager Bill Savino. “We introduced a number of terrific new bikes in 2013, and now we’re carrying that momentum forward with even more innovative models that cast a fresh take on riding. These new models are not only exciting in concept, attention-grabbing in looks and fun to ride, but they will bring great value for the money.

“First there’s the NC700X, the final model for 2013. When we rolled out this very cool adventure-style bike in late 2012, it received a very warm welcome from the motorcycling press and riders alike, so now it’s back with two color options for 2013: a new Red and Light Silver Metallic.

“Next comes the Pioneer, replacing the Big Red in Honda’s Side-by-Side lineup. Why Pioneer? Because this machine brings pioneering innovation to the Side-by-Side class. Powered by Honda’s fuel-injected 700cc-class liquid-cooled OHV single-cylinder four-stroke engine that features an automotive-style automatic transmission with hydraulic torque converter, three forward gears and reverse, the Pioneer also incorporates industry-leading innovations such as a versatile, adjustable seating configuration that can accommodate two, three or four people. All-new rugged and aggressive styling distinguishes the Pioneer, but it’s the innovative engineering that makes this Side-by-Side unlike anything seen before.

“More big news is the launch of a whole new line of Honda motorcycles for 2014: the CTX series. These new models introduced today are just the first in a whole new family of CTX products of various displacements and engine configurations that will be rolled out in the future. CTX stands for Comfort, Technology and eXperience—a rider experience that’s unique to these machines because of new Honda technologies that focus on class-leading comfort, easy-to-operate features and versatility. These first CTX machines share the same engine as the NC700X and place a premium on lightweight handling thanks in part to a low center of gravity, ergonomics that translate into day-long comfort, distinctive Urban Roadster styling and fantastic value.

“The CTX700ND is a 700cc-class parallel-twin machine that features a low seat height, along with an automatic Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) and Antilock Braking System (ABS) for $7999. That price makes the CTX700ND the most affordable DCT bike ever offered by Honda, and we believe its class-leading features and high level of value will appeal to many riders who have been waiting to begin their riding experience with a full-featured yet affordable automatic-transmission bike. We are also rolling out the CTX700, a fairing-equipped sibling ready for the open road. With the DCT and ABS combination, the CTX700D carries a suggested retail price of $8799. Both bikes will also be available with a standard transmission for $6999 and $7799 respectively, and a full assortment of Honda Genuine Accessories will also become available when these bikes land on dealership floors, including saddlebags that expand their touring capabilities.

“Obviously this is great news for enthusiasts all across the riding spectrum,” said Savino. “We believe this new CTX series of motorcycles is going to be a big hit as it cuts across many demographic categories while emphasizing one key theme: the fun of riding, at an affordable price. Also, the new Pioneer Side-by-Side offers an elevated level of versatility, utility and convenience that establishes new class standards. And this is only the beginning. We will be releasing more information about other great new 2014 models, so stay tuned for more good news from Honda.”

- NC700X—Adventure-style riding for the adventurous in spirit
Whether you’re new to the sport, a longtime rider or just getting back into the riding scene, the adventure-style NC700X offers the comfort and practicality of an everyday motorcycle that’s also surprisingly affordable. Use it as a day-to-day commuter, country road explorer, two-up getaway machine or perhaps all of the above and more—the NC700X is up to the job. Credit its long-travel suspension, abundant torque and available automatic Dual Clutch Transmission plus Combined Antilock Braking System and more, all of which make the NC700X the bike of choice when a bit of adventure starts calling your name. Price: $7499; $8499 for DCT/ABS model. Availability: spring 2013

powersports.honda.com/2013/nc700x.aspx

- CTX700N/CTX700ND with DCT and ABS—Offering simplicity plus all-around performance
The brilliance of Honda engineering shines once again in the form of the 2014 CTX™700N. This is a bike specifically engineered to make motorcycling more approachable, affordable and fun than ever before. Thanks to a low seat height of only 28.3 inches, riders can quickly get acclimated to life in the saddle. Honda’s acclaimed automatic Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) provides either a fully automatic mode or the option of more active gear selection via “paddle-shift” type buttons on the handlebar, and the DCT version also comes with Honda’s Antilock Braking System (ABS). The 670cc parallel-twin engine features cylinders canted 62 degrees forward for better weight distribution and a lower center of gravity for nimble handling. This smooth-running fuel-injected engine pumps out loads of low-end and midrange torque to simplify taking off from stops even with the optional six-speed manual gearbox, and there’s enough power on tap for wherever the road may lead. Beneath the fuel tank cover there’s a handy glove box area, and the fuel is carried beneath that. All in all, the CTX700N/ND are amazingly affordable, friendly and comfortable bikes that are perfect for everyday rides, weekend trips, two-up exploring or just about anything else you can dream up. Price: $6999; $7999 for DCT/ABS model. Availability: spring 2013

ctx.honda.com

- CTX700/CTX700D with DCT and ABS—The open road never looked so inviting
The open road has never looked more inviting than when you’re rolling along on the new 2014 Honda CTX™700. Made for travel with an efficient fairing and windscreen, the CTX700 boasts features that make it an ideal partner for exploring all that the open road can offer. It starts with great rider accommodations, thanks in large part to a comfy seat that’s only 28.3 inches high—a handy aid around town. Then there’s the powerful, smooth-running 670cc engine with its twin cylinders canted 62 degrees forward for better weight distribution and a lower center of gravity for nimble handling. There’s also the option of an easy-to-use automatic Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) or a standard six-speed manual; the DCT allows riders to instantly choose between a fully automatic mode or the option of more active gear selection via “paddle-shift” type buttons on the handlebar. Better yet, the CTX700D also comes equipped with Honda’s Antilock Braking System. With its broad power curve, light and nimble handling, roomy riding accommodations and smooth engine, the CTX700/CTX700D excels at long-range travel, but these qualities also make it a terrific weekend warrior or daily rider. With all this and more, all in a very affordable package, get out and see that destination you’ve been wanting to visit—on the Honda CTX700/CTX700D. Price: $7799; $8799 for DCT/ABS model. Availability: spring 2013

ctx.honda.com

- Pioneer—Four-seat innovation in a package that’s sized like a two-seater
Now you don’t have to choose between a two-person or four-person Side-by-Side: The all-new Honda Pioneer™ boasts an innovative convertible design that allows the two rear seats to fold into the bed. Owners can opt to use the Pioneer with two-seat, three-seat or four-seat configurations. Best of all, the rear seats fold quickly and easily without the need for tools, and once folded away the Pioneer’s tilt-bed space can be fully utilized. Long-travel suspension combines a comfortable ride with high-performance handling, and helps give the Pioneer the load capacity to haul 1000 pounds or tow 1500 pounds. It will be available in three colors—Red, Green, and the new Honda-designed and trademarked Honda Phantom Camo™. A full line of more than 50 accessories will also be available when the Pioneer hits Honda’s dealer network later this year. Stay tuned for more information coming in May.

powersports.honda.com/2014/pioneer.aspx

About Honda
American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs and Side-by-Sides in the U.S. American Honda’s Motorcycle Division conducts the sales, marketing and operational activities for these products through authorized Honda dealers. For more information on Honda products, go to powersports.honda.com

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Ducati is the fourth motorcycle marque to be honored by “The Amelia” with a one class display on the concours field of The Golf Club of Amelia Island. The Italian maker of exotic high performance motorcycles joins former honorees Triumph, BMW and Vincent as “The Amelia’s” one marque motorcycle class for 2013.

A field of 18 rare and significant Ducatis will appear at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance on March 10, 2013, led by the seminal “Cucciolo” that, in 1946, began Ducati’s rise to the pinnacle of motorcycle excellence and success.

Ducati is a member of an exclusive club of motor manufacturers that grew from the rubble of post war Europe. Like Ferrari and Porsche, Ducati has strong pre-war roots. Unlike the exotic sports car builders, Ducati produced electronic equipment, most notably radios, before the war. By 1939 Ducati was Italy’s second largest company with nearly 11,000 employees. The war ended Ducati’s primary business. Revival came from SIATA who allied with Ducati to produce small, clip-on engines for bicycles. It was the perfect product for the times. Delivering over 75 mpg, the little bicycle engine changed the course of the company.

Like Ferrari and Porsche, Ducati has a dominant central character. Designer/engineer Fabio Taglioni played the starring role for Ducati as Ferdinand Porsche did for his eponymous German engineering company. Taglioni’s first design was a small masterpiece. The 100cc Gran Sport, nicknamed “Marianna”(for the Madonna) was the first motorcycle to wear the Ducati name . When racer Giovanni Degli Anotoni won the 1955 Motogiro d’Italia on a “Marianna”, the course of Moto Ducati was set.

For 30 years Taglioni led Ducati to victories and championships from his drafting table. In 1977 Cook Neilson chronicled the transformation of a Ducati street bike into a Daytona Super Bike winner in his Racer’s Road series for Cycle Magazine. He won the 1977 Daytona Super Bike race on the Ducati 750 SuperSport nicknamed “Old Blue” made famous through Neilson’s Cycle Magazine series. A year later, motorcycle racing legend Mike Hailwood won the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy on a Ducati 900SS, further blurring the distinction between Ducati production motorcycles and pure racing bikes. In 2013, “The Amelia” will feature Ducatis in both corsa (racing) and strada (street) trim.

A tribute 1974 Ducati 750SS nicknamed “Deja Blue”, for the ’77 Daytona Super Bike winner, shares “The Amelia’s” exclusively Ducati field with a collection of the Italian thoroughbreds. The display will chronicle a half-century of Ducati history from the seminal “Cucciolo” through the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum’s 1979 Hailwood Isle of Man racer, to famous motor cycle author Vicki Smith’s 1997 Ducati 916SPS.

“Ducati is one of those rare machines that, like Ferrari, is capable of stirring the blood of a certain kind of rider,” said John Duss, Amelia Concours Board Member and “The Amelia’s” resident motorcycle expert and historian. “Ducati has, through excellence and competition, become not only famous, but an aspirational motorcycle.”

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Stephan Schaller, President of BMW Motorrad: “Never before in the history of BMW Motorrad have we been able to sell as many vehicles. We have achieved this magnificent retail success in the context of a very difficult motorcycle market, especially in Europe. I would like to thank all our customers most sincerely for having placed their trust in us. The new all-time sales high demonstrates that our motorcycles and maxi scooters have been received extremely well. We are on the right track with our product and sales strategy and we will power ahead at full pace to enable ongoing growth. In December we started supplying to customers what is currently the most innovative vehicle in the 1000 cc supersports segment: the new HP4. The three special boxer models “90 years of BMW Motorrad” will arrive at dealerships in January. In February we will start supplying the new mid-range touring bike F 800 GT. And March 2013 sees the launch of the successor to our bestseller. The all new

R 1200 GS – containing our entire experience drawn from over 30 years of GS development. It offers significantly enhanced performance, a higher level of touring and off-road suitability, more equipment, enhanced safety and comfort and a distinctive, modern GS design. We are confident that the new version of the world’s top-selling travel enduro bike will attract even more customers. We also anticipate powerful growth stimuli from our maxi scooters. Since the market launch in the second half of 2012 we have been able to sell almost 5,300 vehicles and we now look forward to the first whole sales year. There are lots of new products in store for our customers in 2013 – the year of our 90th anniversary. Based on our ongoing product offensive we feel confident as we look ahead to the upcoming season. Our aim is to surpass the 2012 record once again.”

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Based on the classic Bonneville T100, just 1,100 of the Steve McQueen^TM Edition will be sold worldwide. Featuring a host of modified parts, the design is inspired by the Triumph Trophy TR6 that McQueen insisted on riding during the famous stunt scene in The Great Escape, and features a military-style Matt Khaki Green livery, stencil-style Triumph decal on the tank and the actor’s signature on the side covers.

Featuring a solo seat and black luggage rack, the McQueen bike has also been fitted with a rugged skid plate and small black-bodied headlamp. The Triumph Steve McQueen^TM Edition features a host of other blacked out components, including wheel rims and hubs, handlebars, rear springs, mirrors and front mudguard supports. To confirm the bike’s provenance, each machine is individually numbered with a plaque placed on the handlebar clamp, while owners will also receive a certificate of authenticity with their machin

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Highlights on the Suzuki stand this year will include a Rockstar Energy Suzuki World MX1 RM-Z450, Mel Pocock’s Relentless Suzuki by TAS RM-Z250, that took the team young-gun to a runner-up finish in the Red Bull Pro National series and third in the British Championship, as well as Stephen Sword’s RM-Z250 fresh from its first outing at the Sheffield Supercross.

In addition to the complete 2012 model line-up on display, new riders can also cut their teeth on the Suzuki Test Ride Experience, running every day and offering visitors from age six upwards, the opportunity to try two wheels for the first time.

With Suzuki MX stars visiting the stand throughout the duration of the show, there’ll be a chance of an autograph or two also.

The post Suzuki MX Range 2012 To Debut At International Dirt Bike Show appeared first on Motorcycling Blog.

Working in close collaboration with Swedish suspension wizards Öhlins, the Speed Triple R sports the latest specification NIX30 43mm forks at the front, with a jewel like TTX36 unit at the rear. To minimise unsprung weight as much as possible, the lightweight five-spoke forged aluminium wheels from PVM are over 1.7kg lighter than those on the standard machine, delivering even more precise and agile handling. Stopping the Speed Triple R are top specification four-piston radial monoblock calipers from Brembo, the leading brand in MotoGP racing, with Triumph’s electronic anti-lock system available as a switchable option. Together, the brakes and wheels offer a 5% increase in braking performance over the standard Speed Triple.

Powering the Speed Triple R is Triumph’s potent 1050cc three-cylinder engine, producing an impressive 135PS and a mighty 111Nm punch for effortless sports riding. The Speed Triple R also debuts the 1050’s completely redesigned gearbox, for more positive and refined shifting action.

Paint options are classy metallic Phantom Black or Crystal White, with subtle details like the R branded tapered black alloy bars, carbon fibre radiator, mudguard and tank covers, unique decals and red coloured subframe.  Again the price will be confirmed in January.

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McGuinness is racing at the penultimate round of the Endurance World Championship at Le Mans in France with the Honda TT Legends, while Rea is competing for the Castrol Honda team at Imola in Italy in round eleven of the World Superbike championship.

Both riders will contest the weekend’s races on the current version of the Fireblade but officially revealed next year’s model, which will also be on public display at the forthcoming EICMA show in Milan (8-13 November), for the first time this evening.

The iconic Fireblade will celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2012 and the new model maintains the original’s ethos of ‘total control’, a philosophy that has been continually refined and evolved during the past 20 years.

The 2012 Fireblade features a number of innovative features including new wheels and front and rear suspension enhancements to improve handling, traction and braking performance. The advanced Balance Free Rear Cushion rear suspension is a world-first for a production motorcycle.

The design team has also created a new, even more aggressive styling to better communicate the dynamism and sheer speed of the new CBR1000RR. In addition, the already comprehensive instrument panel has additional functionality making the bike more user-friendly, helping riders get the most from Honda’s most exciting and advanced supersport machine yet.

The post Honda’s CBR1000RR Fireblade 2012 – 20th anniversary appeared first on Motorcycling Blog.

The thoroughly modern powerplant utilises a new ride-by-wire electronic throttle system, allowing Triumph engineers to endow the Tiger Explorer with a number of high-tech rider aids for added rider safety and comfort. Cruise control, switchable traction control and switchable ABS are all standard fitment on the Tiger Explorer. A tough shaft drive system has been developed for the Tiger Explorer, allowing virtually maintenance free touring, and the latest Triumph has been designed to go 10,000 miles between servicing – ideal for long distance adventures.

Rider and pillion comfort are at the heart of the Tiger Explorer’s philosophy. The rider position is highly adjustable, from a tall and commanding 860mm seat height down to a low of 810mm (with low accessory seat fitted), with both the screen and handlebars adjustable to suit individual rider preferences. The pillion hasn’t been forgotten about either, with a wide and comfortable seat equipped with large grab handles for comfort and security.

Triumph’s reputation for delivering best-in-class handling continues with the Tiger Explorer, which offers a combination of excellent low-speed balance and composed high speed capability. The strong tubular steel trellis frame bears a strong visual resemblance to other models in the Triumph family, while the single-sided rear swingarm showcases the 17” 10-spoke rear wheel. Adjustable 46mm front forks allow the rider to tailor the Tiger Explorer to their individual needs and riding conditions, with the long-travel suspension and 19” front wheel giving the Tiger Explorer the capability to cope with unpaved roads.

All-new instrumentation and switchgear is both comprehensive and intuitive. The LCD instrument pack is thumb operated via switches on the handlebars and features a comprehensive onboard computer, including an ambient air temperature indicator with ice warning. The instrumentation also comes pre-configured for Triumph’s tyre pressure monitoring system, available as an optional accessory.

A comprehensive range of accessories is headlined by a high quality luggage range. The two-box pannier system provides 60 litres of luggage space, while the top box offers a further 35 litres of capacity, enough for a full-face helmet.

A best-in-class 950w generator has been fitted to the Tiger Explorer to facilitate the simultaneous running of multiple electrical accessories. Among the official accessories available are heated rider and pillion seats, heated grips, high power fog lights and a top box with integrated power supply for charging on the move. The bike also comes fitted with a power socket situated close to the ignition, which can be used to power a GPS unit or items of heated clothing.

Three colour options are available for the 2012 Tiger Explorer: Sapphire Blue, Graphite and Phantom Black.  The price will be announced in January.

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Announced in unison across the world today, the 2012 GSX-R1000 retains its original styling but with a host of revisions all implemented to make this the very best GSX-R1000 ever produced.

Shaving two kilograms from its kerb weight, the new GSX-R features a plethora of updates, incorporating Brembo’s highly acclaimed Monoblock calipers for incredible braking and engine revisions that provide even more mid-range power.

Engine technical highlights include the adoption of MotoGP derived finite-element-analysis and fatigue-analysis techniques, which allow for newly developed pistons that are now 11% lighter and aid acceleration and overall performance. This combined with a finer material for engine tappets shaves a further 2.5 grams off per tappet, resulting in optimized valve lift with a revised exhaust cam profile for a slight reduction in valve overlap. Compression ratio also increases from 12.8:1 to 12.9:1.

Along with the utilisation of the Brembo Monoblock calipers, the 2012 GSX-R1000 features further chassis enhancements that offer greater manoeuvrability thanks to a reduction in weight for the front tyre and axle, offering superior unsprung weight advantages. This weight saving is amplified with the return to a lightweight 4-2-1 exhaust system, further enhanced with a new lightweight titanium silencer also.

With the current GSX-R1000 a proven track performer, narrowly missing out in this year’s British Superbike Championship by just 0.006 seconds, and current holder of the Brands Hatch Superbike lap record, the 2012 GSX-R1000, with its detailed update looks set to continue Suzuki’s front of the pack performance.

The 2012 GSX-R1000 will make its European debut on the Suzuki stand at the Eicma International Motorcycle Exhibition in Milan on 8th November 2011.

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