Posts Tagged ‘news’

Veterans Day 2025: Riding with Gratitude

Posted: November 11, 2025 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, vintage motorcycle
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Every November 11th, the rumble of motorcycles across America takes on a deeper meaning. Veterans Day isn’t just another date on the calendar — it’s a chance to pause, reflect, and honor the men and women who’ve worn the uniform, stood the watch, and carried the weight of freedom on their shoulders.

For those of us in the riding community, the connection runs especially deep. Motorcycles have been part of military history for over a century — from Harley-Davidsons roaring across Europe in World War I, to Indian Scouts and WLA “Liberators” serving in World War II, to modern-day veterans who find healing and camaraderie on two wheels. The bond between motorcycles and the military is more than mechanical; it’s cultural, emotional, and enduring.

Why Riders Remember
  • Shared Brotherhood: Just like serving in the military, riding is about trust, loyalty, and watching each other’s back.
  • Freedom on Two Wheels: Veterans know better than most that freedom isn’t free. Every ride is a reminder of the sacrifices made to protect it.
  • Healing Journeys: For many veterans, motorcycles are more than machines — they’re therapy. The open road offers peace, clarity, and a sense of control.
Veterans Day 2025: What It Means

This year, as we gather at parades, memorials, and local rides, let’s remember that Veterans Day isn’t about politics or division. It’s about gratitude. It’s about shaking a veteran’s hand, listening to their story, and making sure they know their service mattered.

Across the country, motorcycle clubs and veteran riding groups will roll out in force — from the Patriot Guard Riders to local American Legion & VFW posts organizing commemorative rides. These events aren’t just about chrome and horsepower; they’re about respect.

How You Can Honor Veterans Today
  • Ride with Purpose: Join a Veterans Day ride or organize one in your community.
  • Support Veteran Causes: Donate to organizations that help veterans transition back to civilian life.
  • Simply Say Thank You: Sometimes the most powerful gesture is the simplest.
Final Thoughts

So today, whether you’re polishing your bike, heading out for a ride, or standing quietly at a memorial, take a moment to honor our veterans.

Because every mile we ride in freedom is a mile they earned for us.

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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.

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?

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!

Motorcycle News: 41K Harley Davidsons Recalled, CF Moto Soon to be Banned?

Posted: October 8, 2024 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news, motorcycle safety, Uncategorized
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ijustwant2ride
What you need to know: CF Moto Motorcycles Facing a Ban in the USA

Recently the American Department of Commerce proposed a new rule that would impact CF Moto and possible a few other motorcycle manufacturers. Specifically, this rule comes from the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) which is a sub-unit of the Commerce Department.

This proposed rule would ban any vehicle that contains software and/or hardware that has links to China or Russia.

My Take: I find this a very interesting as it seems it is an extension of the Biden/Trump tariffs on Chinese vehicles by other means. But it also means that someone somewhere in our government determined that there is a security risk with software on motorcycles. 

As a guy with a significant information technology security background, I can imagine some crazy scenarios where something crazy could happen. Yet I see a very low likelihood that any of those scenarios would actually happen.

What you need to know: 41,637 2024 Harley Davidson Motorcycles Recalled

This recall is due to a potential crash risk associated with a short circuit with the voltage regulator wires.  The wire is rubbing on the crankcase removing the outer cover of the wire exposing wire to a short.  This short circuit will cause the motorcycle to lose power with no warning.

The motorcycles impacted are

  • 2024 FLHX Street Glide
  • 2024 FLHXSE Street Glide CVO
  • 2024 FLTRX Road Glide
  • 2024 FLTRXSE Road Glide CVO
  • 2024 FLTRXSTSE Road Glide ST CVO

My Take: That is a bunch of motorcycles! Not a good look on top of everything else that has befallen the MoCo recently.

Motorcycle News: Synthetic Fuels and Seat Belts

Posted: July 18, 2024 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news, motorcycle safety, motorcycle touring
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ijustwant2ride

What you need to know: E-Fuels – Study: Synthetic fuel can be used without any problems

European scientists have completed a study that shows the new fuel, Eco100Pro, is safe for general use.  The fuel was tested on the engine test stand, on a racetrack during the ADAC XC Cup, and on the road. The scientists came to the same conclusion: “No losses in power and torque compared to regular gasoline from the gas station. No higher fuel consumption. No technical risk for the combustion engine. But at least 77 percent fewer CO2 emissions.”

So, the internal combustion engine in cars and motorcycles should continue to operate efficiently without modifications, if filled with Eco100Pro. 

My Take: Ok, sounds good. No changes are needed to our motorcycles, and we get reduced emissions. I checked the price, wow, about 85% more than fossil fuel.  That can be overcome by increasing production.  But I saw nothing that indicated increasing production any time soon.

What you need to know: CFMoto has patented “seat belts” for motorcycles.

CFMoto has patented a unique safety feature for motorcycles, resembling “seat belts” but designed as flexible straps at the rider’s waist to enhance safety during specific circumstances.

While this invention aims to prevent riders from being thrown off during impacts or braking events, it is engineered to release the rider in scenarios like falls or sideways forces. The concept introduces a novel approach to motorcycle safety, potentially reshaping industry standards.

My take:  This seems to be a possible solution to the introduction of forward-looking radar and automatic breaking.  I do not believe that automatic breaking should ever be integrated into motorcycles. Forward-looking radar and adaptive cruise control I have no problem with.


The true test of CFMoto’s innovation lies in its real-world application, raising questions about practicality and effectiveness that may only be resolved through future testing and potential legal challenges

Ride to Work Day 2024: Second Tuesday in June Event

Posted: June 3, 2024 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news, Motorcycle Rides
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Ride to work day use to be on the 3rd Monday in June. But, because of the new Untied States National Holiday of Juneteenth, the Ride to Work organization moved it to the second Tuesday of June.

Why the second Tuesday? “Because RTW Day is about riding to work (as well as for utility transportation), starting in 2024 RTW Day will annually be on the Second Tuesday in June. This day is chosen because A) it breaks up the workweek better than a Monday day does (RTW Day is a demonstration day), and B) because a midweek day is more likely to receive media coverage than a Monday or Friday.”

Why “Ride to Work” anyway? Ride your motorcycle on Ride To Work Day and demonstrate:
– The number of motorcyclists to the general public and politicians
– Motorcyclists are from all occupations and all walks of life
– Motorcyclists can reduce traffic congestion in large cities
– Motorcycles are for transportation as well as recreation

If you have a chance please check out their website!

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