How cool are these Knox gloves?

Knox are heading into new territory with the release of their first set of motorcycle gloves and they look awesome! I  broke the first news of Knox's new line of riding gloves last week, and we've been able to get another image. We can't wait to see them in person at the NEC and try them on. How cool are these?

Live from the Ducati Hypermotard 1100 EVO launch

I'm out in Sardinia for the launch of Ducati's Hypermotard 1100 EVO. I can't wait.
I'm knackered from the transfers, been up since 5am and haven't helped myself by necking an espresso at every opportunity. Now it's come-down time!

So Ducati have updated the Hypermotard 1100, and in the meantime they've launched a new Hypermotard 796. We're riding the Hypermotard EVO tomorrow at the Mores circuit.

Ducati have put a Hypermotard in the reception of our hotel (that's the pic above) and, visually, it doesn't look that different from the Hypermotard 1100S. The silhouette is very similar and the specification is too; a couple more horsepower, but the same amount of torque and the same wheelbase.

We've got a full technical presentation tomorrow before the track session and I'll be checking in with a first ride report. So check out the news section tomorrow for more info on the Hypermotard 1100 EVO and we'll also have the launch report of the Kawasaki Z1000 too.

Rossi 'Donkey' lid swings into production

AGV IS TO release a road-going version of the Valentino Rossi 'The Donkey' helmet in January 2010 for a price of Euro 745.

The lid design, which the nine-times world champion came up with as a self-deprecating comment on his own race craft after crashing out of the Indianapolis MotoGP race,  is based on the new, top-of-the-range AGV GP-Tech.

Yamaha YZF-R1

In late 2008 Yamaha announced they would release an all new R1 for 2009. The new R1 takes engine technology from the M1 Motor GP bike with its cross plane crankshaft, the first ever production motorcycle to do so. Cross plane technology, puts each connecting rod 90° from the next, with an uneven firing interval of 270°- 180°- 90°- 180°. The idea of this technology is to reduce internal crankshaft torque, thus giving the new R1 a more linear power delivery. Yamaha claims the bike would give the rider 'two engines in one', the low torque of a twin and the pace of an inline four. As with previous incarnations of the R1 the 2009 model keeps its YCC-T (Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle). The R1 is now rated at 182 PS @ 12,500rpm at the crankshaft (without ram-air).

Another advancement included on the 09 model is D-Mode Throttle Control Valve Mapping which allows a rider to choose between 3 distinct maps depending on the rider’s environment. Each mode of operation controls YCC-T characteristics changing how the R1 reacts to driver input. The first mode is Standard Mode, which delivers performance for a wide variety of driving conditions. The second mode is "A" mode which will give a rider more available power in the lower to middle RPM range. The 3rd mode is "B" mode, which is a dial back of the previous mode, designed to soften throttle response in inclement weather and heavy traffic. D-Mode throttle control is controlled via the rider through a forward mode button near the throttle. The instrument panel is more comprehensive than previous models and the '09/'10 Yamaha YZF-R1 model now features a gear indicator as standard.

Overall handling of the R1 was improved through several changes to frame and suspension. A new sub frame was designed for the 09 R1 which is magnesium cast in a carbon fiber mold. This new sub frame offers a superior strength to weight ratio, while helping keep mass closer to the center of gravity and subsequently gives the bike greater handling performance. The rear shock on the 09 offers variable speed damping as well as an easy to tweak preload via a screw adjustment. The rear shock now connects underneath the swing arm through different linkage; a change from previous years models. Front suspension takes its cues from the M1 as the left fork handles compression damping while the right controls the rebound duties. As an added bonus to overall handling and safety, this is the first year Yamaha developers included an electronic steering damper on a production R1.

The overall look of the R1 has changed drastically. In a side by side comparison between last year’s model and the 09; to the eye, the 09 looks much more compact and could be compared to the size of the R6r. The center up exhaust on the 09 seems significantly larger compared to previous years, due in some respects to changes in emissions controls. The front has the same classic R1 shape, though the air intake location and headlamp design have been revamped on the 09 model; utilizing only projector lamps and using the new found design space within the nose cone to reroute ram air tubes next to the lights. Four color schemes have been released for the 09 Model: Blue/Black; Red/black; White/Red; Yellow/Black.

Choosing the Right Motorcycle

Before you decide what bike you get, because they are considered a number of things. The first thing to consider is: What will I bike? If the answer is because the two mile is traveling to work every day and occasional trips to the store, it's probably a moped do for you. Something like rocket Urban Tempo 50cc or Bahamas. Bikes like these make very little fuel and are easy to learn if this is your first foray into the world of motorcycling, the disadvantages that they can steal more easily to the bike smaller wheels and the lack of a manual transmission make it difficult to manage them in wet weather and of course you can have a single person at a time corresponding to them. Maybe your commute is a few miles and there are many winding roads and traffic queues, then perhaps you should, at a 150 cc version. Rocket Something along the lines of Bali that has a big comfortable seat with backrest, passenger, and your passenger can so easily travel as The Bali is so good with an AM / FM and ranges between $ 1200-1900, it will not break the bank. If saving the environment is high on your priority list, then you might opt for an electric scooter, as Tao 300 Ate. It has a range of 14 miles on a single charge, but it will take more than an hour to get the distance, take advantage of 11 miles per hour speed limit is ridiculous.

Maybe the speed is all important to you when you should be running in order to have a bike race, the Japanese have dominated this market for several years, and it's probably a good idea to go for an established Japanese brand. Honda, Suzuki and Yamaha are leaders in the field. If you are driving a relatively new bike, so it is advisable to go for less strong riders, such as the Hornet Honda CB 250 FT. you can still over 100 mph top speed generated, but the wheel is all in the walk in the middle range, it has a four-cylinder four-stroke engine, the power supply so evenly. You can choose up to around 4000rpm at 30-40 km / h or you can open the throttle and whack the towers min up to 12,000 rpm and you will be racing into the sky. As a 250 it will not last as his cousin 600cc, but when is about to Honda Motor bomb-proof standard.

If you are a little more experience and you feel you need more speed than CB250FT can give you, so take a look at the jewel in the crown of the Suzuki GSXR 750, it is a bicycle, crossed a whole little d is helium -- Where Knowledge Rules

significant improvements over the years, but the current incarnation of the GSXR is probably the best. It's like the bike just came off the track into the showroom, it will provide an awful lot of power to the rear wheel and only the experienced pilot will come anywhere close to test everything Suzuki has to offer.

A bicycle should be mounted not only many years of experience in the streets, is the flagship for Yamaha motorcycles, Yamaha YZF-R1 2008 version is on the wheel, the Moto GP rider and former world champion Valentino Rossi on the YZF-go M1. This monster can deliver 180 horsepower to the rear wheel to break and easy to do 200 mph, if you buy this wheel for the speed and serenity, not buy comfort.

If you are looking for something between work and tootling careening at breakneck speed on the road then maybe you should be in a cruiser. The name Harley-Davidson is with a relaxed cruising motorcycles are increasing more difficult as a synonym for runners, but the extra weight provides stability. These wheels also tend to have baskets, cases mounted on the wheel so that your luggage in the shop, so if you are the passengers on a long journey then it's definitely the bike for you. Harley-Davidson, a number of bicycles around the ethos of convenience and speed touring bike like the Road Glide FLTR designed lead you far into the comfort with plenty of space for your luggage. Given that the XL 1200C Sportter look the same but more classic Harley-Davidson, the bike you ever go to make sure that you have in mind what you use for most, and is then c 'is only a matter have the right training and safe.

Yamaha motorcycle parts - what they can do for you

If you have a Yamaha motorcycle, you should invest in the Yamaha motorcycle parts. Most of us like to drive fast. There's nothing like driving on a climb on a beautiful Yamaha motorcycle, hearing the sound of it, feeling the wind in your hair. On a bike is a great experience, and you certainly can if you Been to a

It is a good idea to invest in a Yamaha because it can fine points of interior and exterior add your bike. When purchasing these parts, it is always important to those who are finding the best for you and your bike. Many people buy, they buy the parts necessary to decide in their bicycle stylish and elegant. If you already own a motorcycle, you probably know that everyone wants to have a good look and sounds good. It is important for a bike that runs and runs well can.

There is no better feeling when you ride your bike and see people turn their heads looking at the bike. By adding custom parts to your existing bike, be sure you turn heads in even more. With pieces of new style and a more powerful engine will always need to see your eyes. With the Yamaha motorcycle parts, you are sure to impress others, especially for you. Fortunately, there are many ways to produce parts to your Yamaha motorcycle in the bike a unique touch that makes your bike add yourself.

If you own your bike long enough, you soon with new parts for your bike for things like maintenance and replacement. Regardless of the brand of motorcycle you have, each and every one of them at some point, you have to buy new parts, so it runs as it should. When that day comes, instead of buying just the boring standard parts, why not invest in Yamaha motorcycle parts, to add your bike?

With these parts, you are sure to draw in the crowd. If you already own Yamaha, there is nothing more beautiful than in the first class of high-quality parts to buy for your bike. These documents may be your Yamaha motorcycle to have increased performance and improved appearance. The selection of motorcycle parts, you expressly authorize and eighth to earn your motorcycle in the spotlight with your friends, your family, and sometimes random people who just happen to stumble this way.

Yamaha Parts offer a wide range of products to choose from. You can choose to buy an hour of luxury or a bar, a guardian of the new channel, safe deposit box, exhaust, chains, sprockets, located behind the passenger seat, and much more so. And adding just one of these parties is certainly a new and unique look, add your bike.

These pieces are all types of materials that are designed to be the one you want to be made. Yamaha parts are made of aluminum, titanium, chromium, and sometimes not. With top quality in mind, all parties are very robust, durable and can withstand the daily, because they are taken to be able to implement any kind of weather.

Ready to Roll the Motorpoint Yamaha Team Begin the 2010 Challenge

19 November 2009 - Motorpoint Yamaha

Neil Hodgson and Dan Linfoot start their 2010 preparation next month with a 3 day test in Spain at the Circuit Almeria. This will be Neil’s first chance to ride his new machine and a great opportunity for the whole team to work together.

Rob Mac
“We have been working closely with Kevin Healy from Focused Events over the last season and we have a chance to tie in with his December event. This is perfect for us, we are not ready for a full on test but a chance to get Neil and Dan on the bike with no pressure will fit great with our schedule Getting the team together and having a few days working and relaxing as a team will stand us well for when we get serious!”

Neil Hodgson
“This test will be great, I have had some work done on my injured shoulder and the test will be good pyhsio as well as getting a base feel for the bike.

The intention is for us to get a foundation and sleep on it ready for the next test, we know some of the areas we want to work on with the bikes and we are on the case now. I am looking forward to spending a bit of time with the boys and these laid back tests are great for team building, I can’t wait.”

Dan Linfoot
“I’m chomping at the bit to get going, I think the boys have learned a lot about the bike since the last time I rode and I can’t wait to get to try it. Having Neil around will be invaluable and a chance to get on track with him this early is just what is need.”

Yamaha 135LC

Yamaha 135LC, also known as Yamaha Spark 135 in Thailand, Yamaha Sniper in Philippines Yamaha Jupiter MX in Indonesia and Yamaha Exciter in Vietnam, Yamaha T 135 Crypton X in Greece is a small underbone bodied motorcycle manufactured by Yamaha Motor Company which is also a moped or underbone model with the second-largest displacement behind Suzuki Raider 150. Powered by a liquid-cooled 135cc 4-stroke engine, the Y135LC is specially designed by the parent company in Japan for Southeast Asian market.

In 2008, the fuel-injected version of the Yamaha Spark 135 was launched for Thai market, making it the second underbone motorcycle using the fuel injection system after the Honda Wave 125i.

Specification

• Model code: T135
• Engine: SOHC 4-valve 4-stroke 135cc water-cooled engine
• Cylinder arrangement: Forward-inclined single cylinder
• Displacement: 134.9 cc
• Max power: 8.45 kW (11.33 PS) @ 8,500 rpm
• Max torque: 11.65 Nm @ 5,500 rpm
• Max speed: 138 km/h
• Bore x stroke: 54.0 x 58.7 mm
• Compression ratio: 10.9 : 1
• Transmission: Constant mesh 4-speed
• Clutch: Wet, multiple-disk and centrifugal automatic (optional manual clutch model is also available)
• Fuel system: Fuel injection (2008 Yamaha Spark 135i in Thailand only); Mikuni VM22 carburetor with throttle position sensor (other countries)
• Frame Type: Diamond-shaped underbone steel tube
• Suspension (Front): Telescopic
• Suspension (Rear): Monoshock
• Brake (Front): Single-piston disc, Dual-piston disc - 135LC Extreme Spirit (Malaysian-spec models)
• Brake (Rear): Drum
• Dry weight: 103 kg
• Fuel tank capacity: 4.3 L

Features

Yamaha Sniper 135 Hand Clutch Version

• DiASil (die-cast aluminum cylinder) which has better heat conductance to dissipate excessive heat easily.
• Lighter forged piston technology came from Yamaha R6
• Roller bearing rocker arms with less friction than typical rocker arms.
• 4-valve water-cooled engine - The 4-valve engine configuration provides better volumetric efficiency compared with other 4-stroke moped models which uses 2-valve engine design, enabling the engine to produce higher torque at high rpm. However, the engine displacement of 135cc limits the ability of air-cooling system while retaining the small kapchai design at the same time, therefore water-cooling system which has better cooling efficiency is used.
• Fuel injection (2008 Yamaha Spark 135i in Thailand only) for less dirtier emission and better efficiency than the carbureted version.
• Carburetor with throttle position sensor and accelerator pump (other countries) - The Y135LC uses Mikuni VM22 carburetor equipped with throttle position sensor for more precise ignition timing, increasing the engine's efficiency, and also an accelerator pump for better acceleration and instant response during take-off.
• Catalytic converter - Even though most 4-stroke kapchai models are capable to surpass strict emission standards without even using the catalytic converters, Yamaha has taken an initiative to install a catalytic converter to the Y135LC to surpass even stricter emission standards in the future.
• Sport rims with tubeless tires (standard for Malaysian models only)

Model history

The Yamaha Y135LC debuted in 2005 for Thai and Indonesian market before brought in Malaysian market in February 2006. The Y135LC was designed by the headquarters of Yamaha Motor Company in Japan for Asean market. The model was very successful in Southeast Asia especially in Malaysia.

To promote the Y135LC, Yamaha organized an Asean road tour known as the Yamaha Pan Asean Tour, traveling 9,000 km on roads in Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and Philippines, which ended on May 2006.

Every model in each country have different specification in speedometer reading. Example in Indonesia and Philippines version, the Jupiter MX and Yamaha sniper have a top speed of 120kph while the malaysia version have top speed of 160kph. In reality there an error in speedometer accuracy.

There are 3 main yamaha factories that assembles T135. These are Indonesia, Thailand and newest is Philippines.