Motorcycle Musings

BMW Motorrad launches airbag riding jacket for upper body protection

(September 28, 2016) MUNICH —  BMW Motorrad is launching the BMW Motorrad Street Air by Alpinestars, an advanced airbag system offering comprehensive upper body protection and the freedom to ride a motorbike in both on- and offroad situations.

The technology is adopted from the current Alpinestars Tech-Air street airbag system — a system requiring no motorbike-mounted sensors.

Honda launches global communications site for selected motorcycle models

(September 21, 2016) Honda announced today the launching of "Honda Moto 2017," a global communications website to promote selected 2017 motorcycle models slated for future release. The new website will introduce each of the selected models in a short-film drama format, depicting a unique lifestyle through the interaction of riders and their bikes, thereby promoting the motorcycle lifestyle and the Honda brand.

BMW's new R nine T Scrambler to start at $13,000

(September 1, 2016) WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. — BMW Motorrad USA has announced pricing for the all-new BMW R nineT Scrambler, which arrives in dealer showrooms this month. The long-awaited classic, yet customizable, newest member of BMW Motorrad’s Heritage line-up will be offered at a base price of $13,000.

Harley-Davidson launches all-new Milwaukee-Eight engine

(August 24, 2016) MILWAUKEE — Harley-Davidson has unveiled its all-new Milwaukee-Eight engine, the ninth Big Twin in its history, plus all-new front and rear suspension for its model year 2017 Touring motorcycle lineup.

"These are the most powerful, most responsive and most comfortable Touring motorcycles ever offered by Harley-Davidson," said Scott Miller, Harley-Davidson vice president of Styling and Product Development Strategy. "You truly have to ride one to feel the difference — so we're inviting all riders to visit a Harley-Davidson dealer and take a test ride."

Triumph confirms September date for land speed record attempt

(August 23, 2016) Following a successful practice session at the Bonneville Salt Flats, achieving a speed of 274.2 mph to become the world’s fastest ever Triumph, Triumph Motorcycles has confirmed the attempt to set a new outright motorcycle Land Speed World Record will take place mid-September, 2016, weather permitting.

Harley-Davidson, EPA reach settlement over tuning product

(August 19, 2016) MILWAUKEE — Harley-Davidson has reached a settlement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding the sale of one aftermarket tuning product used to calibrate motorcycles intended for off-road and closed-course competition. As part of the settlement agreement, the company will no longer sell its competition-only tuner in the U.S.

Honda releasing all-new CRF450R, CRF 450RX

(August 11, 2016) TORRANCE, Calif. — On the 15th anniversary of Honda's original 450cc class four-stroke motocross model, Honda is announcing a revolutionary CRF450R that promises to be the most powerful, best-handling Honda motocross machine ever. Honda's no-compromises approach to designing and developing the new bike was intended to put it at the front of the pack in all areas of performance, resulting in what Honda is calling the "Absolute Holeshot."

Triumph Motorcycles to again sponsor Distinguished Gentleman's Ride

(August 5, 2016) In 2016 Triumph Motorcycles is once again encouraging riders to don a dapper ensemble and take to the streets astride a classic motorcycle as it shows its support for The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride as global sponsor for the third year running.

The only motorcycling charity event of its kind, The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride was founded in 2012 and is a celebration of the art of being dapper and the style of classic custom motorcycles. Dedicated to raising funds to combat prostate cancer, the 2016 ride will take place on Sunday, Sept. 25.
 

Harley-Davidson revving up for 76th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

(July 19, 2016) MILWAUKEE — With a rockin' beat and a rolling rumble Harley-Davidson is set to take over the 76th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. As the official motorcycle of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, Harley-Davidson plans to pack more unbridled fun and pure riding experience than ever into this week-long celebration of freedom and the open road. Harley-Davidson will roll into the historic South Dakota Black Hills region with activities planned from Aug. 6-13.

BMW Motorrad partners with Rever to build community of motorcyclists

(July 18, 2016) Planning the most beautiful routes, riding them with like-minded motorcyclists, sharing experiences during the day and talking gasoline at night. With this in mind, BMW Motorrad has entered into a strategic partnership with the technology start-up Rever in order to build up a global community of motorcyclists.

Since launching in 2015, Rever users have tracked millions of miles on motorcycle rides in 119 countries around the world.