Motorcycle Musings

Consumer Reports: Harley-Davidson, BMW less reliable than Japanese bikes

(March 26, 2013) YONKERS, N.Y. — Harley-Davidson may be an iconic American maker of motorcycles but its bikes have been repair-prone, according to Consumer Reports' first-ever motorcycle reliability survey, conducted by the Consumer Reports National Research Center.

Harley-Davidson and UFC to reunite for Epic 2013 in August

(March 21, 2013) MILWAUKEE — To celebrate 110 years of freedom, Harley-Davidson Motor Company is riding again with the Ultimate Fighting Championship. The UFC and Harley-Davidson first teamed up five years ago to forge a unique partnership between these two all-American heavyweight brands.

New Harley-Davidson Breakout debuts In Daytona Beach

(March 8, 2013) MILWAUKEE —The new Harley-Davidson Breakout motorcycle will be revealed to the public today in Daytona Beach, Fla., during the annual Daytona Bike Week motorcycle rally. With authentic swagger that turns heads in traffic and a proud stance certain to draw a curb-side crowd on bike night, the Breakout is presented as a premium model in its segment with distinctive finishes and specific components not available on other Harley-Davidson bikes.

Rear-vision motorcycle helmet hits world market

(March 7, 2013) LONDON — Motorcycle helmet maker Reevu has launched the world's first "Rear Vision" — yes, rear vision in a helmet — the RV MSX1. Reevu's engineers and production team have now produced the world's first Rear Vision System helmet. Hot off the production line is the RV FSX1 model ready for the coming 2013 season, already tested and approved to DOT standard for export into the U.S. and fully accredited for European markets.

New book provides virtual tour of Ducati Museum

(March 5, 2013) BOLOGNA, Italy — For Ducati fans, visiting the Italian motorcycle manufacturer’s official Museum in Borgo Panigale, Bologna is like coming home and each year a steady stream of owners and enthusiasts arrive to soak up the spirit of competition that made Ducati a legendary name for more than 60 years.

Now, the Museo Ducati book from David Bull Publishing offers readers the next best thing to visiting the famous museum.

Engineer Filippo Preziosi resigns from Ducati

(March 1, 2013) BOLOGNA, Italy — Ducati Engineer Filippo Preziosi, who has served as director of research and development, has announced that he will resign from his position at Ducati Motor Holding. Declaring reasons of poor health related to his particular physical condition, Preziosi’s resignation was accepted by Ducati, saddened and disappointed to lose such an accomplished and strategic member of staff.

Ducati dream tours begin in May

(February 27, 2013) Ducati are gearing-up for the new riding season with “Ducati Dream Tours,” the perfect weekend of Italian motorcycling that combines the unforgettable experience of visiting the famous Italian motorcycle Factory and Museum with the pleasure of riding a Ducati along the legendary roads that surround Bologna.

Got the urge for a motorcycle experience — Rent a Harley

(February 19, 2013) MILWAUKEE — All of  the approximately 18.4 million miles of paved roads around the world represents an adventure that's waiting to happen, and as the largest provider of motorcycle rentals in the world, Harley-Davidson Authorized Rentals can provide the ride for those inspired to answer the call.

Harley-Davidson's 2012 charitable contributions top $4.5 million

(February 15, 2013) MILWAUKEE — Harley-Davidson's charitable giving topped $4.5 million in 2012, highlighted by a $200,000 grant to Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity for its Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative focused on the Washington Park area. The grant will help fund neighborhood improvements through an expanded array of housing projects.

Zero Motorcycles announces new 2013 police bikes

(February 12, 2013) SANTA CRUZ, Calif. — Zero Motorcycles, a global leader in the electric motorcycle industry, today announced the launch of its all-new 2013 Zero Police and Security line-up. In 2012, the highly popular Zero DS Police Motorcycle led the market as the only law enforcement product offering by Zero, but 2013 will see both the Zero S and Zero DS outfitted for law enforcement and security details.