KTM’s Financial Crisis: What You Need to Know

Posted: December 3, 2024 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news
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What you need to know: Senator John Thune new Majority Leader

You may not know this, but John Thune is a proud motorcyclist. He has been recognized by the MRF and AMA as a “champion” of motorcyclists’ rights.

My Take: This is a good thing for those of us that ride.  Senator Thune has been a friend of motorcyclists, and he should continue supporting us from this more powerful position.

KTM in Grave Danger

KTM is in debt 2.5 billion Euros (2.65B US) and has filed for insolvency and self-restructuring. Of course, this also pertains to KTM other products; Husqvarna, MV Agusta and Gas-Gas.

As a result of their self-restructuring they are making changes, some of which include:

Layoff of European employees, with 500 more by the end of the year.

Board of Directors cuts the number from 6 to 2 people.

Production halted planned

Halt of MotoGP development (it claims it will be on the grid in 2025)

My Take: WOW!!!  We all know that the world of motorcycling is declining as the boomer and generation X grow older. However, I do not think that many were aware that KTM was in this much debt!

KTM and its other brands are in danger.  I could see a sell off of Husky and MV Agusta as their names alone are very valuable, but Gas-Gas might not make it. With the cost of running racing teams, I would not be surprised to see KTM withdrawing from everything racing but MotoGP.

We will have answers about the future of KTM sooner rather than later.  KTM has until the end of February 2025 to get healthy or file bankruptcy.

Motorcycle recalls November 2024: Honda (85K), BMW, Indian and Kawasaki

Posted: November 30, 2024 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle news, motorcycle recall, motorcycle safety
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Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States for the last 30 days, there is no way I could cover the entire world. But in the world of global manufacturing, if a motorcycle is being recalled in one country there is a good chance it is under recall in others. So, safety first.

Also, (DISCLAIMER) this should not be considered a definitive list, check for yourself if you have any questions.

If you are US based, use the NHTSA website http://www.safercar.gov. Enter your VIN number to see if your motorcycle is affected by the recall.

If you are based outside the USA, use the appropriate website to locate recalls that may impact you.

NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V882000

Manufacturer Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Components FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2022 and 2024-2025 CRF1100 Africa Twin motorcycles. A software error in the fuel injection electronic control unit (FI-ECU) may cause an engine stall or a loss of power when the Wheelie Control feature is activated.

Remedy Dealers will reprogram the FI-ECU software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed January 20, 2025. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-866-784-1870. Honda’s number for this recall is KR1.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V864000

Manufacturer Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Components FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2007, 2009-2017 CBR600RR, 2008, 2017, 2019, 2021 CBR1000RR, and 2010, 2012-2013 VFR1200 motorcycles. The fuel pump impellers may have been improperly molded, which can cause them to deform and result in fuel pump failure.

Remedy Dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pump module as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters are expected to be mailed January 6, 2025. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-866-784-1870. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 24V-113.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 24E096000

Manufacturer BMW of North America, LLC

Components ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Summary BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain BMW Dealer Service Part Oil Filters designed to fit S1000RR, M1000RR/R/XR, HP4 (Race) motorcycles, and with part number 11427721779-04. The vibration frequencies from certain high-revving four-cylinder motorcycle engines can cause the oil filter to unscrew during riding.

Remedy Dealers will inspect and replace the oil filter as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed January 7, 2025. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V860000

Manufacturer Indian Motorcycle Company

Components FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Summary Indian Motorcycle Company (Indian) is recalling certain 2022 FTR 1200 R Carbon, FTR 1200, FTR 1200 S and FTR 1200 Rally motorcycles. These motorcycles may have been assembled with an altered fuel tank containing holes that can leak fuel.

Remedy Dealers will replace the fuel tank, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed January 13, 2025. Owners may contact Indian customer service at 1-877-204-3697. Indian’s number for this recall is I-24-09.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V833000

Manufacturer Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.

Components STEERING, STRUCTURE

Summary Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A (Kawasaki) is recalling certain Z7 Hybrid ABS and Ninja 7 Hybrid ABS motorcycles. The connection between the head pipe (steering head) to the frame may have been improperly welded and crack, resulting in a loss of vehicle handling and control.

Remedy Owners are advised not to ride their motorcycles. Kawasaki will replace the motorcycles, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 27, 2024. Owners may contact Kawasaki customer service at 1-866-802-9381.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V825000

Manufacturer Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Components POWER TRAIN

Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2016-2025 Metropolitan scooters. An improper seal between the transmission case and left-side crankcase may allow transmission fluid to leak.

Remedy Dealers will inspect and repair the transmission case as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 20, 2024. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-866-784-1870. Honda’s number for this recall is KR0.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V820000

Manufacturer Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Components ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2021 GL1800 Goldwing motorcycles. The primary drive gear bolt on the crankshaft may break, which can result in an engine stall and lock up the rear wheel.

Remedy Dealers will replace the primary drive gear bolt, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 20, 2024. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-866-784-1870. Honda’s number for this recall is KQ9.

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Top Christmas Gifts for Motorcycle Enthusiasts

Posted: November 18, 2024 in Motorcycle
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It is that time of year again!  Finding gifts for motorcyclists can be a bit difficult.  So, I put together this list of 9 ideas for your consideration. If you have other gift ideas, put them in the comments below, I am sure others will appreciate the thought! 

9. Motorcycle T-Shirt Blanket

If your motorcyclist is like us, they have a lot of motorcycle themed t-shirts in the closet or drawers.  Use some of them to create a blanket, throw or quilt.  We have done this three times, and they have turned out quite well!

8. Gift Card

An easy but effective gift.  There are many motorcycle stores out there in addition to your local dealers.  J&P Cycle, RevZilla, and Cycle Gear are just a few I have used in the past.

7. Motorcycle Themed Art

This could be anything from a framed picture of your rider and their motorcycle or prints like these from Road Runner Magazine. Over the years I have received both nice pictures of us riding and prints from places we have been, and I have loved them all.

6. Replace Gear

Take a sneak peek at their gear.  Does your motorcyclist need new gloves, pants, jacket, or helmet?  Replacing gear is always a good gift.

5. Books or Magazines

Motorcycle related books are always good for the winter season.  I recently read Ride Free by Wille G. Davidson and it was exceptionally good. Do a google search for “IJustWant2Ride Books” to get a listing of all the books that I have read over the years and my ratings.

4. Bike Themed Hat

Almost all motorcycle riders like to have a hat nearby to cover up their helmet hair!  Most will prefer a hat themed with the motorcycle they ride … you know a Triumph hat for a Triumph rider.

3. Motorcycle Maps

While maps on the computer are good, there is something about holding a map and planning a trip.  There are many map makers out there, but I have a preference from both Butler Maps and Mad Maps.  Both make maps geared for motorcyclists.

2. Improved Lights

While some motorcycles come with good lighting, most could do better.  Luckly there are more than a few companies that make high quality aftermarket light kits.  You can get anything from headlights to turn signals.  My preference for those lights is Custom Dynamics.  I recently installed their Pro Beam Taillight to improve my rear end.  

1. Membership in the AMA or MRF.

Motorcyclists need to make sure their rights are not trampled upon.  There are two good groups that help preserve those rights.  Sign your rider up for either or both!

American Motorcycle Association – Membership does not only help in the political arena but also include discounts on products and emergency towing.  The AMA is the largest motorcycle lobbyist group.

Motorcycle Rider Foundation – In addition to their pro-motorcycle lobbying efforts membership will get you a $4000 AD&D insurance policy and regular weekly/monthly updates on what is going on in Washington DC.

Fall Motorcycle Riding Tips for Safety

Posted: November 12, 2024 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle Rides, motorcycle safety, motorcycle touring
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Riding your motorcycle in the fall can be a fun, pleasant, awesome adventure!  But it can be hazardous as well.  Here are a few reminders to help make fall motorcycling more of an adventure than a hazard.

1) Gear Up

Weather during the fall can turn quickly. I started a day in sunny warmth then misty rain and then snow and back to sun during one ride. I am sure many others have had the same occurrence. So, this tip is to wear, or take, gear to protect yourself from the cold and rain…. just in case.

2) The deadly leaf

Pretty when they turn colors but when they fall, they can become “Leaves of Death”! It’s a bit dramatic but, if you take a wet leaf to your visor, it can be a problem. Leaves on the road, wet or not, can make traction dicey, as well as hiding potholes and other hazards. The tip here is to pay close attention to where you are going.

3) Beware of shade

There are dangers in the dark. Cold temps at night can bring freezing conditions to the roads, ice can appear and hide beneath the “Leaves of Death!”. While the warming morning sun may melt most frozen paths, those in the shade may not melt as fast. Tip, be extra cautious as you move from sun to shade.

4) Lighting the darkness

T-CLOCs is your friend. Darkness comes quickly this time of year. Are your lights working properly? Check to make sure.

5) Tires, hoops of hazards

Yes, it is part of your T-CLOCs but if you are wanting to ride in the fall with slicks (or just worn-out tires) you might what to change your mind. Those slick tires + slick leaves and possible ice patches just might just make those hoops of hazards into something much worse.

6) Squirrels and deer HATE you!

Animals are looking far and wide for food now that winter is approaching. That patch of green grass across the road looks mighty tasty to a hungry animal, so much so it will walk or run right in front of you. Tip, pay attention to the sides of the road for Bambi and Thumper.

7) Tighten up your riding skills

Just in case you have a Bambi moment, when was the last time you practiced a panic stopped from 50MPH to 0? Have you practiced panic stopping with a passenger? If not, please do yourself a favor and do so!

8) Check the weather… often

Referring to item 1, in the age of the cell phone it will pay to check your weather throughout your ride. You might have all the right gear on, or stowed, but riding in the rain on a cool fall day across leaf crusted roads is not something you should do if it can be avoided.

9) Grab Fall by the Leaves

There are not many good riding days left in year. Get out and ride, just make sure you are fully prepared.

If you have any fall riding stories or anecdotes please add them to the comments.

Veterans Day 2024

Posted: November 11, 2024 in Motorcycle, vintage motorcycle
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To all the current, past, and future veterans “I salute you”!  As one myself I know the levels of hardship that can come with that lifestyle.

veteran vet

Many service members will take their motorcycles with them each time they move or sell their current bike to buy a new one at their new destination.  I like to think that this motivation is something that crosses international boundaries. I can imagine a soldier in India riding or pulling his motorcycle to the next duty station just like an American soldier.

Veterans and motorcycles have had a long term relationship that still goes on today.  In the US there are a multitude of clubs formed by vet’s from the recent wars.  Whether or not they rode motorcycles on duty or off duty, bikes are a way of life for many.

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Motorcycle News Noise Regulations in the EU and Radar Love

Posted: November 5, 2024 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news, motorcycle safety
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What you need to know: EU tightens motorcycle noise regulations.

They are not changing the regulation (UN-ECE Regulation R41.05), for new motorcycles, but on how the regulation is tested. Currently regulation requires motorcycles on the road (without the engine running) at 31MPH (50kph) would have to be the same volume as the same bike travelling at 31MPH with the engine running.  

Starting in 2025 tests will see motorcycle noise measured at up to 80% of the maximum engine speed and at speed range 6 – 62MPH (10 to 100 KPM). Also, measurements will also be taken in all the bike’s gears.

AND the testing must be done by an “independent” organization and not the manufacturer.

My Take: You can expect this to be exported to America sooner rather than later.  It might not be accepted here and receive major push-back but it will be attempted.

I also see this as another step of the Vision Zero crowd to restrict motorcycles and motorcyclists. 

What you need to know: Honda wants greater radar reflection on motorcycles

With more and more cars using radars to assist drivers or even auto-pilot cars. Those cars need to see motorcycles, the fact that is they are not doing a good job with that task as I have noted before.

Honda, and some other manufacturers, are looking to add radar reflection enhancements to their motorcycles.  I their effort, Honda is adding 3 “cup like” areas of highly radar reflective materials behind the windshield.

My Take: Not a bad idea!  Anything to help in-attentive drivers to avoid running us over will be a major help. Honda is not the first to file a patent for this tech.  Suzuki, Piaggio and BMW have filed patents for similar technology.

Are You Wearing a Top-Ranked Motorcycle Helmet?

Posted: November 1, 2024 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news, Product Reviews
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I ran across this article from SlashGear “EVERY MAJOR MOTORCYCLE HELMET BRAND RANKED WORST TO BEST IN NHTSA COMPLIANCE TESTING”. It is a very interesting list.

They ranked the top 14 helmet brands using the following methodology:

“To determine the best motorcycle helmet brands versus the worst, we’ve taken a look at brand compliance, meaning whether helmets pass rigorous testing standards by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and which safety standards their products meet or exceed, such as DOT, Snell, ECE, and others.”

I will summarize their top and bottom five.

Bottom 5                                           Top 5

HJC Helmets                                    #1 Arai

KLIM                                               #2 Shoei

Biltwell                                            #3 Bell

AGV                                                 #4 BILT

LS2                                                  #5 Schuberth

My personal helmets did not make the list… so somewhere in the middle? I HOPE!

Is your Motorcycle Helmet in the top or bottom 5?

Motorcycle Recalls October 2024: Triumph, Livewire, Suzuki, Harley Davidson X2, Pirelli, Cam-Am, Royal Enfield, BMW

Posted: October 30, 2024 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news, motorcycle recall, motorcycle safety
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Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States for the last 30 days, there is no way I could cover the entire world. But in the world of global manufacturing, if a motorcycle is being recalled in one country there is a good chance it is under recall in others. So, safety first.

Also, (DISCLAIMER) this should not be considered a definitive list, check for yourself if you have any questions.

If you are US based, use the NHTSA website http://www.safercar.gov. Enter your VIN number to see if your motorcycle is affected by the recall.

If you are based outside the USA, use the appropriate website to locate recalls that may impact you.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V785000

Manufacturer Triumph Motorcycles America, Ltd.

Components ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Summary: Triumph Motorcycles America, Ltd. (Triumph) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Bonneville T100, T120, T120 Black, 2022 Triumph Street Scrambler, Street Scrambler Sandstorm, Street Twin, Street Twin Goldline, 2023-2024 Scrambler 900, and Speed Twin 900 motorcycles. The wiring between the alternator and main harness connector may short circuit and overheat.

Remedy: Dealers will install a new wire alignment clip, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 28, 2024. Owners may contact Triumph customer service at 1-678-854-2010. Triumph’s number for this recall is SRAN 627.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 24E088000

Manufacturer LIVEWIRE EV, LLC

Components SEATS

Summary: LiveWire EV, LLC (LiveWire) is recalling certain Two Up Seat Kits, part numbers 50700141, 50700142 and 50700143, designed to fit LiveWire Mulholland (S2MH) motorcycles. The passenger grab strap in the kits may become damaged during installation, resulting in an unsecure grab strap that can detach.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the passenger grab strap and the mounting hardware, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 28, 2024. Owners may contact LiveWire customer service at 1-855-387-4337 or by email at customersupport@livewire.com. LiveWire’s number for this recall is 1004.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V769000

Manufacturer Suzuki Motor USA, LLC

Components SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

Summary: Suzuki Motor USA, LLC (Suzuki) is recalling certain 2022-2024 GSX1300R (Hayabusa) motorcycles. The master cylinder internal rubber components may swell due to contamination from the brake fluid cap diaphragm, which can result in a blocked brake fluid port. As such, these motorcycles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 122, “Motorcycle Brake Systems.”

Remedy: Dealers will replace the front brake master cylinder body and brake fluid cap diaphragm, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 25, 2024. Owners may contact Suzuki Customer Service at 1-714- 572-1490. Suzuki’s number for this recall is 3A04. This recall expands and replaces previous recall number 23V-088. Motorcycles previously recalled under 23V-088 will need to have the new remedy completed.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V753000

Manufacturer Harley-Davidson Motor Company

Components SERVICE BRAKES

Potential Number of Units Affected 15,778

Summary: Harley-Davidson Motor Company (Harley-Davidson) is recalling certain 2022 FXRST and 2022-2024 FXLRST motorcycles. The front brake lines may contact the fuel tank and become damaged, possibly resulting in a brake fluid leak and a loss of front brake function.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the brake lines and replace them, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 21, 2024. Owners may contact Harley-Davidson Customer Service at (414) 343-4056. Harley-Davidson’s number for this recall is 0187.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 24T011000

Manufacturer Pirelli Tire, LLC

Components TIRES

Potential Number of Units Affected 3,093

Summary: Pirelli Tire, LLC. (Pirelli) is recalling certain Scorpion Trail II, Metzeler Tourance Next, and Next II tires sold as replacements and for the Metzeler Tourance Next 150/70R18 M/C 70V tire, also installed as original equipment on certain Triumph motorcycles. Please refer to the recall report for specific sizes. Irregular tire wear may break the belt reinforcement, causing pieces of the tread to separate.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the tires, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 6, 2024. Owners may contact Pirelli Customer Service at 1-800-747-3554.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V728000

Manufacturer Bombardier Recreational Products, Inc.

Components POWER TRAIN

Summary: Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Can-Am Spyder F3 and RT motorcycles. The engine output shaft may fatigue and break, resulting in a loss of drive power.

Remedy: The remedy is currently under development. Interim owner letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed November 15, 2024. A second letter will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated January 2025. Owners may contact BRP customer service at 1-888-272-9222.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V713000

Manufacturer Royal Enfield North America Limited

Components EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Summary: Royal Enfield North America Limited (Royal Enfield) is recalling certain 2023 Himalayan, Classic 350, Meteor 350, Hunter 350, Super Meteor 650, Int 650, and Continental GT 650 motorcycles. The side and rear reflectors are not sufficient. As such, these lights fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, “Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.”

Remedy: Dealers will replace the side and rear reflectors, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 30, 2024. Owners may contact Royal Enfield’s customer service at 1-866-600-1122.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V716000

Manufacturer BMW of North America, LLC

Components POWER TRAIN

Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021-2024 BMW R18 motorcycles. The seal for the reverse gear control unit may deteriorate and allow moisture inside the control unit, which can result in the unit overheating.

Remedy: As an interim remedy, the reverse gear control unit will be disconnected from the electrical system of the motorcycle, free of charge. Once the final remedy is available, dealers will replace the reverse gear control unit, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 18, 2024. Owners may contact BMW Customer Service at 1-800-525-7417.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V719000

Manufacturer Harley-Davidson Motor Company

Components EQUIPMENT

Summary: Harley-Davidson Motor Company (Harley-Davidson) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Softail FXBB Street Bob and 2018-2019 Softail FXLR Low Rider motorcycles. The front tire inflation pressure on the VIN label may be less than the stated front gross axle weight rating (GAWRs). As such, these motorcycles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 120, “Wheels and Rims – Other than Passenger Cars.”

Remedy: Harley-Davidson will mail labels with installation instructions and owner’s manual inserts to owners, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 18, 2024. Owners may contact Harley-Davidson customer service at 414-343-4056. Harley-Davidson’s number for this recall is 0628.

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Honda’s Cruiser Lineup: 2025 Models and Exciting Updates

Posted: October 28, 2024 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle news
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** Honda Press Release **

American Honda announced today that for the 2025 model year, its popular Rebel 1100 cruiser lineup receives important updates focused on comfort and convenience. The family also grows by one, with the addition of the Rebel 1100 DCT SE—a premium-level version that shines with a list of eye-grabbing features included as standard equipment, such as fork boots, handlebar-end rear-view mirrors, a color-matched headlight cowl, a short front fender, and a special seat.

“Since its 2021 debut, Honda’s Rebel 1100 platform has proven to be a big hit with American cruiser customers, so we’re excited to both improve and deepen the roster for 2025,” said Colin Miller, Manager of Public Relations at American Honda. “The entire platform now boasts more comfortable ergonomics, and the new Rebel 1100 DCT SE comes straight from the dealership with premium styling features. It’s clear that Honda values cruiser customers and takes their needs seriously.”

In addition to unveiling the Rebel 1100 platform, Honda confirmed the return of several other two-wheel models from five different categories: the head-turning Fury and timeless Shadow Phantom cruisers, the legendary Africa Twin and compact NX500 adventure bikes, the iconic XR650L dual-sport machine, the versatile CBR500R sport bike, and the stylish and affordable CB500F naked motorcycle.

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For details, colors/price/etc., on the bikes listed below click this link.

2025 Rebel 1100              2025 Fury                 2025 Shadow Phantom

2025 Africa Twin              2025 NX500             2025 XR650L

2025 CBR500R                 2025 CB500F

Hey, I did not even know they still made the Fury!

Easy Taillight Upgrade for Harley Davidson Road Glide

Posted: October 25, 2024 in custom motorcycle
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Short video that shows how simple it is to install a new, brighter taillight on my Harley Davidson Road Glide.

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