1. MotoE World Championship (electric-motorcycle racing) suspended
Dorna Sports (along with Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme, FIM) announced that the MotoE series will be put on hiatus after the 2025 season. The reason: insufficient fan interest and slow development in the electric-motorcycle market. This is a notable setback for electric road-racing motorcycles.
2. Norton Motorcycles outlines a major revival strategy under new ownership
The British heritage brand Norton (now under TVS Motor Company) is inviting UK-based retailers to join its network ahead of a global relaunch at the EICMA 2025 show in Milan and reportedly secured a ~USD 267 million investment for manufacturing and operations in the UK.
3. Ride of the Year: Can‑Am Canyon Redrock named 2025 Motorcycle of the Year
According to Rider Magazine, the Can-Am Canyon Redrock (a three-wheel “roadster” from BRP) is awarded the 2025 Motorcycle of the Year. Rider Magazine
The publication noted that the broader motorcycle marketplace is increasingly diverse—with over 117 new or updated models eligible this year. They pointed out that lighter, more accessible machines (including 3-wheelers) and electric/alternative-power machines are helping reshape the market. The award to the Canyon Redrock underscores how category-creep is real: what counts as “motorcycle” is evolving.
4. U.S. dealer-/industry initiative to grow riding participation
Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC) in the U.S. has partnered with Comoto Family of Brands (owner of Cycle Gear, RevZilla, J&P Cycles) to roll out a nationwide “Ride With Us” initiative aimed at introducing new riders and lowering barriers to entry. Highlights:
The campaign provides hands-on experiences, free ride-intro events, training-bike access, gear, coaching and guides on licensing.
The tagline: “What does a motorcycle rider look like? Exactly like you.” It emphasizes inclusivity and aims to attract a broader demographic.
The effort also encourages existing riders to “Recruit a Rider” — inviting friends/family to join.
Implication: With the new-motorcycle market under pressure in many regions, growing the base of riders (not just sales) becomes a strategic priority. Increasing participation may help sustain culture, aftermarket sales, gear/accessories, and ultimately new-bike demand long-term.
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.
Also, 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: 25V723000
Manufacturer Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Components POWER TRAIN
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2025 CB1000SP Hornet SP motorcycles. The pivot bolt on the gearshift pedal may loosen and detach, resulting in the inability to shift gears. As such, these motorcycles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 123, “Motorcycle Controls and Displays.”
Remedy Dealers will replace the pivot bolt, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 19, 2025. Owners may contact Honda’s customer service at 1-866-784-1870. Honda’s number for this recall is KT2. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning October 28, 2025.
As riding season winds down—depending on your tolerance for cold fingers and frosty mornings—it’s time to think about winterizing your motorcycle.
There are thousands of tips out there, from the practical to the downright quirky (teaspoon of oil in the cylinders, anyone?).
But if you want to keep your bike in top shape for spring, here are my 9 must-do steps. Why 9? Because everyone does 10, and 11 is just too much work!
1. Stabilize the fuel or drain the tank.
Modern gasoline, especially the ethanol-blended stuff, doesn’t age well. Some folks swear by draining the tank and carb, but I’m not convinced you can ever get every drop out.
My method: fill the tank, add a quality fuel stabilizer, and run the engine for at least 15 minutes to circulate the treated fuel throughout the system. Top off the tank afterward to minimize air (and moisture) inside.
2. Change your oil.
Do this as close to your last ride as possible. If you’re a DIYer, consider changing the oil right after running the stabilized fuel through.
Fresh oil removes sludge and contaminants that could oxidize and cause damage during storage. Run the engine for a few minutes to distribute the new oil.
3. Prepare and Protect the Battery.
Most motorcycle batteries are lead-acid and should be kept under a constant charge to maintain their life. Be aware there is a difference between a battery tender and a tickle charger.
A battery tender is a specialized charger that has special circuits to prevent overcharging your battery. You can use a trickle charger but check the instructions carefully; many cannot be used on your battery for more than 30 minutes each day.
If your motorcycle is stored where freezing temperatures will likely occur, consider removing the battery and placing it in a warm dry place. You will still need to keep it charged but the cold will have less effect on the life of the battery.
4. Check your anti-freeze.
Yes, Harley riders, this means you too! Make sure your coolant is at the right level and type for your bike. Whether it’s light-colored or clear, it’s time to change it.
DIYers: don’t forget to “bleed” the system to remove air pockets—nothing ruins the first ride of spring like an overheated engine.
5. Clean your bike.
Whether you’re a clean freak or a once-a-year washer, now’s the time to get rid of all that road grime, salt, and bug guts.
Corrosive crud left on metal surfaces can do real damage over the winter. If you have a chain, clean it now too.
6. Wax, polish and lubricate.
After the good cleaning I think it is important to put a nice coat of polish on the paint and chrome. This will help protect the surface from any condensation that might occur during storage.
Lubricate the chain as described in your owner’s manual.
Lube all moving parts such as cables and your side stand pivot.
Use a metal protectant spray on the underside of the frame and drivetrain, I prefer to spray it on a rag and wipe it on that way I can also get some of the dirt I missed while cleaning the bike.
7. Put a sock in it.
When I was a kid, I was helping a friend start his bike in the spring and shortly after starting we heard a lot of rattling in the exhaust. A few moments later out shot a handful of lightly roosted acorns that some chipmunk had hidden there.
Depending on where you are storing your motorcycle, cover your exhausts or insert exhaust plugs to protect yourself from critters.
8. Check your Tires.
At a minimum, make sure your tires are properly inflated.
Some folks recommend letting a little air out to prevent condensation, but you’ll need to reinflate before riding.
There’s debate about whether to get the tires off the ground to avoid flat spots—some manufacturers (like Harley-Davidson) don’t recommend it, as it can stress the suspension. Check your owner’s manual for guidance.
9. Cover your motorcycle.
Even if you’re storing your bike indoors, use a breathable cover—never a plastic tarp. You want to keep dust and moisture off but let air circulate to prevent rust.
By following these nine essential motorcycle winter storage tips, you’ll protect your bike from costly damage and ensure a smooth transition back to the road when spring arrives.
Regular motorcycle maintenance isn’t just about keeping your ride looking good—it’s about safety, reliability, and getting the most out of every mile. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to motorcycle care, prepping your bike for winter means you’ll be ready for those first warm days and epic spring riding adventures.
What You Need to Know: Indian Motorcycle Sold to Private Equity
It’s official. Polaris has sold a majority stake in Indian Motorcycle to Carolwood LP, a Los Angeles-based private equity firm. And while the press releases are full of buzzwords like “growth” and “heritage,” we’re calling it straight: this is a loss for the riding community.
From Revival to Revenue
Polaris bought Indian in 2011 and did what many thought impossible—they brought the century-old brand roaring back to life. From the Scout to the Challenger, Indian became a real rival to Harley-Davidson, blending classic Americana with modern engineering. Riders responded. The brand grew. The culture thrived.
But now, Polaris is walking away. Despite Indian generating nearly $478 million last year, it wasn’t profitable enough for Wall Street. So they sold it off to a firm that doesn’t build bikes—it builds balance sheets.
Meet the New Owners: Carolwood LP: Riders, Meet Your New Landlord
Carolwood LP isn’t a motorcycle company. It’s a private equity firm. Their business isn’t about the ride—it’s about the return. They’ve tapped Mike Kennedy, a veteran of Harley-Davidson and RumbleOn, as CEO. Sure, he knows the industry. But this move feels more like financial engineering than passion for the open road.
Private equity firms are known for cutting costs, streamlining operations, and chasing short-term gains. That might work for tech startups or retail chains—but motorcycles aren’t just products. They’re culture. They’re community. They’re us.
I believe motorcycles are more than machines. They’re stories, diners, roadside repairs, and community rides. Indian was part of that story—a brand reborn through grit and rider loyalty. Now it’s in the hands of suits who probably think a Scout is just another SKU.
My Take: What This Means for Riders …. Not Good
Carolwood says they’ll preserve Indian’s heritage and keep the Spirit Lake and Monticello factories running. They promise no disruption to dealers or customers. But promises are cheap. What happens when profits dip? Will they outsource manufacturing? Slash R&D? Gut the design team?
Introduction to The Street and Steel Mission Motorcycle Pants
If you’ve spent any time on two wheels, you know that finding the right riding pants is a bit like searching for the Holy Grail. You want protection, comfort, and enough pockets to stash your phone, wallet, and maybe a granola bar for those longer rides. Enter the Street & Steel Mission Cargo Pants—a pair that promises to deliver all three, without making you look like you just stepped out of a sci-fi movie.
First Impressions
Out of the box, Mission Cargo Pants look like your favorite pair of cargo pants, but with a few hints that they mean business. The fit is athletic but not skinny, with a straight upper leg that tapers slightly from knee to cuff.
They’re made from a blend of 97% cotton and 3% spandex, which means you get the comfort and stretch you want for all-day rides, plus triple-stitched seams for durability.
The pants are available in black and tan. The overall construction feels robust, and the pants have a reassuring weight that signals quality without being overly heavy or restrictive.
Protection and Safety
Safety is where the Mission Cargo Pants really shine. They feature aramid (Kevlar) knit reinforcements at impact zones—specifically the seat, hips, and knees.
For impact protection, the pants come equipped with AXIAL AX2 CE Level 2 certified knee armor, which is vented for breathability and can be popped out easily via externally accessed armor pockets. There are also pockets for optional hip armor if you want to upgrade your protection.
The pants are tested to AA Rating on impact & abrasion resistance (EN 17092-3:2020), so you’re not just getting style, you’re getting real protection.
Comfort and Mobility
Street & Steel added a diamond gusset in the crotch for improved comfort and freedom of movement—no more awkward stretches when you swing a leg over your bike.
The moisture-wicking stretch spandex inner slip liner keeps things cool and dry, and precurved knees mean the pants feel natural in the riding position.
The pants are designed to be comfortable enough for all-day wear, whether you’re on the bike or grabbing lunch at your favorite roadside dinner.
Pocket Power
Cargo pants are all about pockets, and the Mission Cargos deliver: two hand warmer pockets, a coin pocket, two thigh pockets, and two expandable cargo thigh pockets with hook-and-loop closure. That’s seven pockets in total—plenty of room for your essentials, and everything stays secure even at highway speeds.
The cargo pockets are generously sized and positioned for easy access, making it simple to grab your phone, wallet, or keys without fumbling. The hook-and-loop closures ensure that your items stay put, even during spirited riding or bumpy roads.
Style and Versatility
These pants don’t scream “motorcycle gear,” which is a plus if you want to blend in off the bike. Reinforced belt loops, flat rivets, YKK zippers, and a custom S&S button and leather patch add subtle style points.
The understated design means you can wear these pants to work, out to dinner, or on a casual day out without looking like you’re dressed for a track day. The versatility is a major selling point for riders who want gear that transitions seamlessly from the road to everyday life.
Other pants in this category may offer similar protection but often lack the pocket utility or comfort features like the diamond gusset and moisture-wicking liner. The Mission Cargo Pants are also competitively priced at around $150, making them accessible to most motorcycle riders without sacrificing quality. I bought mine on sale, at a Cycle Gear store, for $89.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Excellent abrasion and impact protection for the price: Aramid reinforcements and CE Level 2 knee armor provide serious safety.
Comfortable fit with stretch and gusseted crotch: The diamond gusset and spandex blend ensure freedom of movement and all-day comfort.
CE Level 2 knee armor included, hip armor optional: Upgradeable protection for those who want more.
Looks like casual cargo pants off the bike: Versatile design that blends in with everyday wear.
Moisture-wicking liner and precurved knees: Keeps you cool and comfortable in various riding positions.
Cons
Hip armor sold separately: Additional cost for full protection.
Not waterproof—these are best for fair weather or layering: Riders in wet climates may need to layer with rain gear.
No thermal liner: Not ideal for cold weather without additional layers.
Final Thoughts
I have used these pants for multiple rides including a few all-day trips. They’re a solid choice for riders who want gear that works on and off the bike, without breaking the bank. The combination of aramid/kevlar reinforcements, CE Level 2 knee armor, and practical cargo design make these pants a standout option in the motorcycle gear market.
Ride Destination:Hillbilly Hot Dogs, Lesage, WVRoute Taken: OH-7 to US-35, then WV-2 south along the Ohio river Distance: ~150 miles round trip Vibe: Backwoods carnival meets roadside Americana
Hotdogs are a true American staple—loved by many, for better or worse. Hillbilly Hotdogs takes that classic comfort food and gives it a major Appalachian twist, both in flavor and atmosphere.
Location: Hillbilly Hotdog on WV Route 2 north of Huntington, WV.
You can’t miss it: wedged between the road and the mountain, it’s a roadside attraction that grabs your attention whether you stop or just ride by.
The place is packed with quirky, hillbilly-themed décor, including a “Weddin Chaple” that’s hosted real weddings! It will engage your eyes as there is something everywhere you look!
The gravel parking lot offers plenty of space, with overflow parking on both sides of the chapel.
Seating is plentiful, thanks to a couple of converted school buses and a collection of outdoor tables.
The Food
Let’s talk dogs. These aren’t your ballpark franks—they’re Frankenstein creations of chili, slaw, jalapeños, mac & cheese, and whatever else the hillbilly imagination conjure. Here are a few standouts:
The Homewrecker: A 15-inch beast loaded with everything but regret. It’s a challenge and a meal, and yes, they make you sign a waiver.
The Mothman Dog: Spicy, smoky, and just mysterious enough to make you wonder if you saw something in the woods on the way in.
Hillbilly Nachos: Because why not? Pulled pork, cheese, jalapeños, and a drizzle of BBQ sauce that could win awards.
The menu is extensive, with over 30 different types of hotdogs—so many, I wish I had snapped a photo for reference!
On our visit, Debbie opted for the “Ketchup Puppy” (not feeling adventurous that day), while I went for the Taco Dog, loaded with all the classic taco fixings. The dogs themselves are flavorful and high-quality, and the toppings on my Taco Dog were fresh and delicious.
Overall Thoughts: Must-visit food stops for bikers in Appalachia
Hillbilly Hotdogs is a must-visit if you’re anywhere nearby. It’s exactly what your stomach needs during a day trip or a long ride. Even Guy Fieri stopped by to tackle the Homewrecker for “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” The restaurant’s quirky spirit is so iconic, it even appears in the video game Fallout 76.
If you’re planning a ride through West Virginia, make sure Hillbilly Hotdogs is on your itinerary. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that blends great food, fun atmosphere, and true roadside Americana.
Have you been to Hillbilly Hotdog? If so comment below and let me know your thoughts.
My video skills are still a work in progress, but I’m working on it.
This short video captures our motorcycle ride with the Mothman Harley Davidson dealership. We rode from the dealership to the town of Point Pleasant, West Virginia, to visit the home and statue of the legendary Mothman.”
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.
Also, 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: 25V598000
Manufacturer KTM North America, Inc.
Components VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Summary KTM North America, Inc. is recalling certain 2022-2023 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401, Husqvarna Vitpilen 401, and 2022-2024 KTM 390 Adventure motorcycles. Water could enter the throttle (e-throttle) control unit and cause it to fail, resulting in loss of drive power.
Remedy KTM and Husqvarna dealers will inspect and replace the e-throttle control, free of charge. KTM has not yet provided a schedule for recall notification. Owners may contact KTM customer service at 1-888-985-6090.
*****
NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V590000
Manufacturer Harley-Davidson Motor Company
Components STEERING
Summary Harley-Davidson Motor Company (Harley-Davidson) is recalling certain RH1250S (Sportster S) motorcycles. The upper triple clamp may fracture.
Remedy Dealers will replace the upper triple clamp, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 29, 2025. Owners may contact Harley-Davidson customer service at 1-800-258-2464. Harley-Davidson’s number for this recall is 0190.
We recently embarked on a run 200+ mile motorcycle ride with our new Harley Owners Group (HOG) Chapter. This was our first adventure with the Borderline HOG, and it took us through the scenic backroads of Ohio, around our new home. The experience was nothing short of amazing!
Discovering New Places: Our ride led us to explore places we had never been to before, and we were thrilled by the beauty and charm of the Ohio countryside. Each turn revealed a new sight, and we found ourselves falling in love with the winding roads and picturesque landscapes.
By the way, we circumvented Lake Senica which is much larger than one would expect. We rode around most of the lake and it took quite a while.
Unexpected Encounter: One of the highlights of our ride was encountering a goat that thinks it’s a dog! This quirky moment added a touch of humor and delight to our adventure, making it even more memorable.
Navigational Challenges: While I can’t provide the exact route we rode, I can share that we faced a few navigational challenges. The app our leader was using stopped working when we lost cell signal, leading to a few wrong turns. However, these detours only added to the excitement and fun of the ride.
Conclusion: Overall, our first ride with the Borderline HOG Chapter was an incredible experience. We discovered new places, enjoyed the camaraderie of fellow riders, and embraced the unexpected moments that came our way. We can’t wait for our next adventure on the open road!
[IJustWant2Ride – Start] This post is by the organization Save London Motorcycling. Save London Motorcycling is a grassroots organization dedicated to fighting threats to motorcycling in London, UK. Don’t think it can’t happen in the US. I have pointed out, in several posts, attempts to “restrain” motorcycling and do not forget that the Vision Zero coalition is all about zero motorcycles.
Please share this to raise awareness this not just for “Save London Motorcycling” but for all of us. [IjustWant2Ride – End]
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Why We Fight to Ride Our Motorcycles
Across the UK, riders are under attack. Step by step, rule by rule, life on two wheels is being made harder, and London is on the front line.
Riders see what’s happening, but too often they don’t know how to respond. That’s why we created Save London Motorcycling to organize, to show riders they have power, and to fight back. We don’t charge membership fees; we just spread awareness and ask for whatever time, energy, and passion riders can spare.
Motorcycling is something we love, the freedom, the community, the vitality. Most riders aren’t chasing the old stereotype of the anarchist outlaw. We’re just people who ride because we love it and it makes our lives better.
If you are invisible, you are in danger
As passionate as we can be about bikes when talking to other riders, most of us don’t bring it up unprompted in day-to-day conversation with non-bikers. We’re more interested in riding than talking about riding, and that makes us invisible to many people. They don’t know anyone who looks like their idea of a stereotypical biker, and so they don’t think they know anyone who rides. And as every rider knows, if you’re invisible, you’re in danger.
We all know there’s a small minority of people who think motorbikes are nothing but a nuisance: noisy, dirty, and dangerous. They don’t ride, they don’t understand why we do, and if it were up to them, they’d ban us all tomorrow.
Government Officials Have Agendas
In the UK, much like the USA, it’s local government that makes the rules we feel every day. That means one anti-motorbike councilor, elected with only a few hundred votes, can make life hell for riders across their borough.
If they tried to do this to car drivers they’d be reined in by their more moderate colleagues, car drivers are voters after all! But their colleagues don’t think they know any bikers, they don’t see us, they don’t hear us, and they don’t think we vote.
Hackney has become an extreme example of this, after their own anti-motorcycle activist councilor decided to impose parking charges on motorbikes at the same rate as cars and ban all-day parking to prevent motorbike commuting.
With petitions and protests, presenting the evidence and reasoning the case, we achieved some concessions from the Council. But in the end, they simply stopped listening. The original policy was so draconian, that even after their ‘concessions’ the costs are devastating.
Charges for commuters add up to more than £2,000 a year just to park at work. Resident permits up to £596 annually, and business permits reach £1,560, with further rises already planned. For around 10% of residents, those living in so-called ‘car-free developments’, permits are simply unavailable – motorbikes are banned outright.
By Hackney’s own projections, these rules would cause a 70% drop in motorbike use in the borough. Riders who rely on two wheels for work, family, or affordable travel are being told they’re no longer welcome. Hackney’s own target for reducing car use over the same period is only 30%.
Riders are being deliberately disproportionately targeted, not because of evidence, but because we are seen as a politically soft target.
Standing Up for Motorcyclists
Save London Motorcycling is refusing to let this stand. We have launched a legal challenge in the High Court, arguing that Hackney’s policy is unlawful, disproportionate, and discriminatory. If we win this case, it could have important implications for councils across the UK, setting the precedent that motorcyclists cannot be disproportionately targeted in this way without evidence.
Taking a council to court is not cheap, but thanks to the generosity of over a thousand riders and supporters, we have raised more than £20,000 through crowdfunding, with our target of £25,000 now within reach.
This is why we fight. Campaigning isn’t easy. It’s long evenings in council chambers and endless hours in meetings with decision-makers who would rather be anywhere else than listening to riders. But the support we consistently receive from around London and the UK proves something important: we don’t have to be invisible.
When riders know they can make a difference, they step up. They bring their energy, their stories, their belief that motorcycling makes life better – for themselves, and for the city as a whole. That passion is contagious, and it’s powerful.
Call to Action
Change comes from the small things: an email to a councilor, a repost on social media, a donation to a legal fund. Each of these acts alone might seem small, but together, multiplied across thousands of riders, they become impossible to ignore.
We must harness the sense of community that binds us as riders, the solidarity we feel when we see another biker on the road and turn it into collective action. That is our strength. If we use it, we can protect motorcycling not only for ourselves, but for the generations to come.
Make no mistake: this is a fight for the future of Motorcycling. If we stand together, we can win it.
I JUST WANT 2 RIDE!! 