'World's Fastest Production Bike' - The Suzuki GSX1300R Hayabusa

When Suzuki released the Hayabusa in 1999, the motorcycle world read the press information, soaked up the bike's specs, and promptly went off in search of a stiff drink and a bit of a lie down.
In an instant it wrenched the title of 'World's Fastest Production Bike' from Honda's CBR1100XX Super Blackbird, and even to this day there has only been the odd challenge here and there (Kawasaki's ZX-12R and more recently its ZX-14) to its supremacy.
What we're talking about here is a motorcycle that could do over 300km/h straight out of the crate. A couple of years later the motorcycle industry realised - after several high profile cases where customers explored the upper ends of their hyperblaster's performance past near-disbelieving radar guns - that perhaps this 'world's fastest bike' thing was doing the industry more harm than good.
So the Japanese manufacturers got together and imposed a limit of 300km/h outright on their top-end blasters, which exists to this day. That means the 2007 Hayabusa isn't quite as fast as one you could have purchased in 1999 - but really, who cares? The bottom line is the Hayabusa of today is still a blisteringly fast motorcycle, with more than enough power and torque on tap to see your eyes punched out the back of your skull whenever you grab a big handful.
But the really impressive thing is just how refined and composed this bike is, given the vast amounts of mumbo available. Suzuki doesn't quote performance stats, but dyno results have shown that we're looking at around 160bhp at the rear wheel, which gives Hayabusa owners a power to weight ratio that will have megabuck sportscar owners seeking counselling en masse.
That in-line four-cylinder powerplant has bulk power and torque on tap just about everywhere, from just off tickover to its 11,500rpm revlimiter. The fact it pulls just 3250rpm in top at 100km/h hints at its potential - a potential which these days you'll only get to fully explore at a track day or on a German autobahn.

Honda CBR1100XX - Super Blackbird

There is something just so utterly intoxicating about the way Honda's Super Blackbird blends such enormous raw power with such velvety-smooth refinement.

By rights, 152 claimed horses - which still equates with over 130bhp at the rear wheel - should make the 223kg Blackbird a big handful, yet somehow Honda's wizards have managed to break those horses, and train them to perform a synchronized ballet that would be the envy of Spain's famed dancing stallions…

Then there's the fact that some 10 years after its introduction, the Blackbird is still on the pace despite receiving very little in the way of modifications or upgrades.

Released late in 1996, the CBR1100XX went from carburettors to electronic fuel injection in 1999, and then received a catalytic converter and updated headlights, instruments and screen in 2001 - throw in the odd change in colour scheme here and there, and the Blackbird has really undergone very little in the way of tinkering.

And really, why would it? Pointing the bike down Victoria's Great Ocean Road recently, it showed it can still hold its head high, with a formula that really hasn't dated since its inception.

The Blackbird's turbine-like four-cylinder engine develops big torque and big power, with crisp fuel injection that places both at your beck and call. There are no flat spots to speak of, in fact there's nothing but bulk oomph pretty much throughout its entire rev range, from just off idle to its indicated 10,750rpm redline.

On the road this translates to a pure delight, although it's perhaps not as involving as other less-powerful machines, as even on a road with quite a variation of turns you can simply pick a gear and stick with it.

The Blackbird was the world's fastest production bike when it first hit the streets, a mantle it retained for over two years until Suzuki introduced the GSX1300R Hayabusa in May of 1999.

While it's not quite as strong as the 'Bus or Kawasaki's ZX-14 or even ZX-12R, there's still plenty here to keep you entertained, and you'll need to watch that right wrist like a hawk if you want any chance of retaining your license…

Stopping is a particularly important issue on a bike like this, and the twin-disc, three-piston Nissins are right on the money. Honda's Dual Combined Brake System (DCBS) is employed, which won't please everyone but will be appreciated by others. If you're not looking to break lap records at Phillip Island, it shouldn't be an issue - and if you are you should really be looking for something lighter anyway, like a Fireblade.

The suspension, though relatively low-tech, does a beautiful job, but tends towards the plusher end of the spectrum, at least in terms of sportier hardware.

The 'Bird's on the money in the comfort stakes too, with a firm but supportive seat, a good screen and slippery bodywork to allow you to scythe through the air. Those on the tall side may find legroom a bit wanting, but there's still enough there to ensure multi-day tours will still be on the agenda, aided further by the 'Bird's optional factory panniers ($1750). So what exactly is the Blackbird's focus? At 223kg (dry) it's too heavy to be a pure sportsbike, yet it's too fast and has too sporty a ride position to be a true tourer.

Really, it's a power-packed all-rounder and a hyper-tourer on the open road - provided you can find roads on which you can actually explore its potential (try Germany).

But even at legal speeds, that engine will always see you coming back for more. Happy birthday Blackbird - may your reign in the Honda stable continue for many years more.

SPECS: Honda CBR1100XX Super Blackbird
Engine: 1137cc, liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, 16-valve, inline four-cylinder
Bore and stroke: 79 x 58mm
Compression: 11.0:1
Fuel system: electronic fuel injection
Power: 152bhp @ 9500rpm
Torque: 119Nm @ 7250rpm
Transmission: six-speed
Frame: alloy twin-spar
Front brake: twin 310mm discs with three-piston Nissin calipers
Rear brake: single 256mm disc with three-piston Nissin caliper
Front suspension: 43mm forks, non-adjustable
Rear suspension: Pro-Link monoshock, adjustable for preload and rebound
Wheels: three-spoked alloy
Tyres: Dunlop D205 Sportmax; 120/70ZR17 front, 180/55R17 rear
Seat height: 810mm
Wheelbase: 1490mm
Claimed dry weight: 223kg
Fuel tank: 24L
Price: $18,790 plus ORC
Colours: Iron Nail Silver Metallic or Darkness Black Metallic
Warranty: 24 months/unlimited kilometres
Contact: (03) 9270 1111

Suzuki Hayabusa GSX1300R Crotch Rocket - Sport Bike - Motorcycle - Review

The Suzuki Hayabusa GSX1300R motorcycle is a top-of-the-line crotch rocket. As one of the most popular crotch rockets or sport bikes in the motorcycle category it is probably most well known for its speed. It came into this world in 1999 and with ongoing testing it was the fastest production motorcycle in the world.

It enjoyed an excellent reputation among sport bikes however in 2000 the Japanese motorcycle manufacturers decided that they would have to change some of the specs. They were worried about the regulation that was bound to happen among various governments and they didn't want to have any problems.

So in 2001 and the following years through 2008, they added what is called a timing retard to the fifth gear and a rev limiter. This changed the maximum speed to 186 mph from the 198mph that was enjoyed on the earlier model.

It has six gears however most will keep it in third pretty much for tooling around town and up to 60 mph on the local tracks.

The Suzuki Hayabusa GSX1300R has a cool 3-way switch on the right handle bar. Choices are - one for full power and response and the other two switches reduce action and output.

And of course - it's a crotch rocket so you're going to be sitting close to the ground. It sits a little lower than some other models and the bars are not as narrow. But most crotch rocket lovers like this.

The translation of Hayabusa from the Japanese language is peregrine falcon. Thee peregrine falcon can travel faster than 200 mph. This Suzuki motorcycle certainly meets that definition.

In 2008 the crotch rockets or sport bike competition soared when the BMW K120S and the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-12R were brought to the marketplace.

Suzuki is no longer called the GSX1300R in some countries because Suzuki dropped it and they call it simply the Hayabusa.

The Suzuki Hayabusa GSX1300R can go a quarter mile in 9.62 seconds at 149 mph. It can go from 0-60 mph in 6 seconds and from 0-180 in 15.9 seconds.

The 2009 models come in white and silver, black and gray, black and gold and silver and gray. In 2008 the Hayabusa sold for $12,000 or so. Although now, individual deals can be made with local dealers. And if you're lucky enough to find a used Hayabusa that's not all beat up, that's good too and can save you a lot of money.

So if you're thinking about buying a Suzuki Hayabusa GSX1300R sportbike you'll get a high performance motorcycle - sport bike or crotch rocket that you'll be proud to own, do endless motorcycle stunts and wheelies and love to ride! But don't buy this crotch rocket - motorcycle as your first bike. Repairs can be expensive and one spill can end up causing a lot of damage. Get a used older bike and practice on that unless you're an experienced rider now.

Motorbiking Hobby

Motor biking is a hobby for many, when they can let their hair down and zoom past the streets or relax in the quiet atmosphere of the countryside. People of different ages love to ride a motor bike and depending on their taste and liking they opt for a particular kind of motor bike. Some prefer to use their motor bike to commute in the city and save on fuel expenses. Those who love adventure prefer to participate in races, competitions and wilderness trails. Motor bike manufacturers have come up with different models to cater to the needs of different people. So irrespective of whether you are a teenager who has just got the license to ride or you are a regular at competitions, you will find the perfect bike to suit your requirements.

Suzuki is a leading motor bike manufacturer and they have different types of bikes like sport bike, cruiser, touring, motocross, dual sport, supermoto, off road, standard, scooters and kids to cater to the varying needs of people. The Suzuki sport bikes like Hayabusa and GSX and SV series are specially meant for sports people who expect the highest standard of performance from their bike. Those who love stylish bikes and crave muscle should opt for a cruiser. This bike is perfect for a laid-back ride and you can check out the Boulevard series which have different types of motorbikes in different styles.

Those who have a passion for racing on race tracks should check out the motor cross RM-Z series which is best suited for the track. Those who are interested in comfortable ergonomics with lots of power should opt for the standards which have the B-King, SV and Bandit series. People who use their bikes for dual purposes - they want to use their bikes both on smooth pavement as well as on wilderness trails can check out the V-Strom and the DR series, as these bikes offer features which can adapt to both conditions. Those who ride their bikes on unpaved roads should opt for the DR-Z series as it can adapt to uneven surfaces. There are motor bikes available for beginners and kids, they are easy to ride and offer great performance. Team Suzuki has won various tournaments like the 2008 AMA Superbike crown, won titles in pro Street and AMA Superstock and WERA Endurance with their GSX-R10000. The Quadracer R450 won them the AMA/AVA title and the RM-Z450 got them the AMA Grand National Singles title. Just remember whichever bike you get to also get the correct safety lit and bike insurance as you may need it one day.

Popular Street Bikes

Shopping for your first street bike can be quite difficult if you have no idea of where to start. You may be familiar with a few different types of bikes, but you could shortchange yourself if you're not considering models that you aren't familiar with but that might be the most appropriate. Even if you have owned a street bike in the past, it may be difficult to keep track of all the makes and models currently on the market and to compare them in order to determine which specific motorcycle is right for you.

Whether you're just considering buying a street bike or whether you're ready to pull the trigger, you'll need to do your homework to ensure you get the most for your money and maximize your consumer satisfaction. One of the best ways to start out is to research the most popular street bike makes and models on the market. The guide below will familiarize you with some well-known and not-so-well-known brands of motorcycles that offer street bike options to consumers like you.

After reading the brief descriptions offered below, narrow down your options to a few that interest you further. After you've come up with a list of viable options for yourself, research the motorcycle manufacturers further by visiting their Web sites, reading consumer reviews, comparing pricing and so on. Finally, decide whether you will purchase a used street bike or a new one and begin to shop around for a reasonable deal on the bike you want.

American Ironhorse

American Ironhorse is mostly known for producing choppers and customs. The Fort-Worth, Texas manufacturer has a reputation for being "high-end," which is also reflected in the price range. American Ironhorse motorcycles cost anywhere from $25,000 to $40,000, though current financial turmoil could soon present the opportunity for negotiation and get you a better deal.

Aprilia

Aprilia has a much wider collection of models under various categories, including off-road and racing bikes. The Italian manufacturer is traditionally known for producing scooters, but has recently earned acclaim by winning sport bike races. Aprilia's street bike collection is about as large as American Ironhorse's, but the price is much lower.

Big Dog

Big Dog is known for it's cruiser-style street bikes and wide range of customizing options. The Wichita, Kansas manufacturer produces five models. Big Dog's street bikes run in the $25,000 range.

BMC

BMC is a smaller motorcycle manufacturer located in Bend, Oregon. The company has earned big attention through its focus on factory customs. Check them out for a DOT-approved street bike that looks totally unique.

BMW Motorrad

BMW Motorrad is the motorcycle division of the German automotive manufacturer BMW. BMW has been producing motorcycles since 1923. Though the company is traditionally known for their original engine configuration, the flat-twin boxer, today's BMW motorcycles include a variety of engine and riding formats.

Bourget's Bike Works

Bourget motorcycles, based in Phoenix, Arizona started out by producing one-of-a-kind bikes in Roger Bourget's garage. The manufacturer is known for its signature oil-in frame/drop seat style chassis, which was actually patented in 1999. The bike maker is known for innovation in motorcycle design and also holds a patent for its jackshaft design.

Hayabusa Fightwear - The Heart of a Champion

The peregrine falcon is the chosen icon for Hayabusa Fightwear, and just like the wide-ranging, self-sufficient hunting bird, this company has a fighting spirit that drives them to succeed in business. The brand puts out exclusive Hayabusa clothing for an increasingly loyal fan base and stable of big name MMA fighters. Their apparel has a distinct look and feel that generates a sense of pride for martial arts athletes that take their sport seriously.

Each item in their collection is designed with a specific purpose in mind. From t-shirts and fight shorts to all the Hayabusa gear that fighters need most, like handwraps, gloves, headgear, pads, and guards, the vendor strives to give fighters the tools they need and the quality they deserve to make it to the top. When it comes down to it, Hayabusa wouldn't expect anything less from the customers they serve.

Take their gloves, for instance. Their Pro Hybrid MMA Gloves have a high performance lining, Dual Cross Directional closure system, and are made from 100% Premium Grade leather for maximum durability. They also carry a premier pair of 16oz Sparring Gloves with the same quality and design that can be used in all types of combat training.

Don't forget that Hayabusa clothing adheres to some of the highest quality standards in the MMA apparel business, giving those who wear their products the look and feel of a champion. The beautifully crafted Uwagi Jacket is a perfect example, blending superior Gi material with a full zip front, lined hood, and embroidered logos for a polished, professional-looking jacket any fighter would be proud to wear. The added protection on colder days and bold red and black styling is sure to make this a favorite within the MMA crowd.

Hayabusa Fightwear also contributes some of the most advanced fight shorts available. Their Shiai Fight Shorts are made from an exclusive stretch fabric with reinforced stitching for ultimate durability and strength. The material is so advanced it actually inhibits High-IQ odor technology, keeping the shorts smelling clean longer. The distinctive Hayabusa logo on front and back and split side seams gives them a sleek look that also provides a superior range of motion.

What about accessories you say? Fear not, the selection of professional Hayabusa gear is second to none. Their Pro Handwraps are a unique blend of cotton fabric with a direct embroidered logo for a little extra flair. They carry premium leather Thai Pads made with SoftForm inserts and an ErgoGrip stabilizer for added comfort and protection.

From the sidelines, you may be a little envious of the good-looking apparel you see on MMA stars. Don't worry. Hayabusa has plenty of t-shirts and rash guards to go around, just like the pros wear. In fact, items like the Mizuchi Longsleeve Rash Guard even have advanced antimicrobial technology to keep your body warm and dry as you take in the action. You may even be inspired to take up your own training routine at home, and you'll be ready with Hayabusa clothing in hand.

Top Motorcycles And Manufacturers - Helping You Identify The Top Motorcycles

he motorcycle has become more and more popular over the years for a number of reasons including the fact that they are more economically friendly, fuel efficient, and they provide for an exciting and exhilarating riding experience that many find hard to resist. With so many motorcycle manufacturers competing for the top spot, it's hard to determine which bike will provide the best overall experience at the best price for your budget. A number of factors will influence your opinion as to which motorcycles are the best motorcycles on the market including your riding style, manufacturer preference, and more. Here are some of the top motorcycle manufacturers in the industry today:

Top 10 Motorcycle Manufacturers:

1. Honda 2. Yamaha 3. Kawasaki 4. Harley Davidson 5. Suzuki 6. BMW 7. Ducati 8. Triumph 9. Moto Laverda 10. Buell

All of the above manufacturers produce high quality, high performance motorcycles that can be seen on the road today. Those that appeal to you may vary based on your preference as a motorcyclist and may rank higher than what you see in the list if you have a strong loyalty to any one of them.

If it's top motorcycles that you are looking for, well then the spectrum can be pretty wide because of the large variation between the different styles and types of motorcycles available. You really have to focus on the different categories of motorcycle to determine to popular bikes in each category.

Top 10 Sport Bikes:

1. Suzuki GSX-R 600 2. Suzuki Hayabusa 1340 3. Kawasaki Ninja 250R 4. Buell Firebolt® XB12R 5. Harley Davidson VRSC V-Rod Muscle 6. Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14 Monster Energy 7. Kawasaki Ninja 650R 8. Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14 9. BMW F 800 ST 10. Suzuki GSX-R 1000

2010 Top 10 Motorcycles (Cruisers):

1. Triumph Thunderbird Base 2. Harley-Davidson Dyna Glide Fat Bob 3. Harley-Davidson Softtail® CVO Softtail Convertible 4. Victory Kingpin® 8-Ball 5. Harley-Davidson Softtail® Fat Boy 6. Harley-Davidson Softtail® Heitage Softtail Classic 7. Harley-Davidson Softtail® Fat Boy Lo 8. Kawasaki Vulcan® 900 Classic LT 9. Yamaha Raider S 10. Triumph Speedmaster Base

The Fastest Motorbikes In The World

The beliefs behind the Superbike category, which was created half-way through the 1970s, was to race bikes that were very powerful but were in any case similar to production models on sale to the general public. The possibility for the general public to identify themselves with the bikes in this championship that were so close to production models has been the basis for the success of the Superbike category. These are some of the most powerful and fastest Superbikes available in the market ranked by its maximum speed:

Suzuki GSX1300R (Hayabusa) Ah yes, the fastest motorbike is Suzuki Hayabusa GSX1300R. It is also known worldwide as Hayabusa. This speedy bike was introduced in the year 1999 by Suzuki. This name is a Japanese term for the Peregrine Falcon, which is known for its speed. The fastest motorbike before the Hayabusa was invented is the Super Blackbird. This also happens to be the name of the previously fastest production motorcycle. Makes you think doesn't it?

Yamaha YZF - R1 Introduced in 1998, this machine brought the sector nearer to a true racing motorbike. Its 1000cc engine powers the bike up to 176mph. Yamaha launched the YZF-R1 after redesigning the Genesis engine to offset the crankshaft, gearbox input and output shafts and this compacting of the engine yielded a huge dividend in that the total engine length was now very short. The launch model Yamaha YZF-R1 was available in white/red or blue this bike has a compression ratio of 11.8:1.

MV Agusta F4 1000R Released in 2006, this bike which could whizz you up to 185mph in rapid time set a world record at Bonneville Salt Flats and won the title of the 'Fastest Production Class 1000cc'. The F4 engine is a liquid cooled inline four cylinder (4 strokes) with two overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 radial valves, electronic multi point injection, induction discharge electronic ignition and following capacity variants: 749.5, 998 and 1,078 cc.

MTT Turbine Superbike Y2K Created by Ted McIntyre of Marine Turbine Technologies Inc, this bike is only the world's second wheel driven motorcycle powered by a turbine engine, and doesn't it move; 227mph to be precise. It has a Rolls Royce Allison 250 series engine and is recognized by Guinness World Records as the "Most powerful production motorcycle" and the "Most expensive production motorcycle. Riding the motorcycle is said to be somewhat tricky due to the inherent throttle lag in the engine, acceleration when letting off the throttle, and extreme length and with a price tag of US$150,000.

Yamaha FZ6 Motorcycle

I noticed on the Yamaha website that the new 2009 Yamaha FZ6 is now available for sale. So, I decided to do a comparison to see if there is anything about the new model that makes it better than my 2008. I hope not, because I don't want to have to go out and buy another one.

It's difficult to see at first glance from the website what is different about the two motorcycles. We're off to a good start :-). Looking at the specs, it seems that the engine performance, size, and weight are the same as the 2008 model. According to the specifications, the only difference between the two model years is the color options and price! This isn't really that surprising, as there can't be a revamp every single year.

Moving over to the 2008/2009 Yamaha FZ6 features list I notice a couple of differences. The first is that instead of having a "Controlled-Fill aluminum frame" like the 2008, the 2009 has a "Controlled-Fill die-cast aluminum frame". So now it's die-cast aluminum, for whatever that's worth..?

The second difference that I notice is the addition of: "Dual 12V 60/55-watt multireflector headlight gives a sleek, R1-type profile for superb aerodynamics and visibility." One of the interesting things about the 2008 is that only one headlight is on when the low beams are active and both when the high beams are used. It seems that the 2009 model might just use both lights all of the time. That would be a welcome change. I get comments all the time that I have a headlight out. Well, I don't! That's just how it's made! Most of the time no one believes me. In addition, when looking at the two side by side, it's easy to see there is an aesthetic difference on the front end. Good or bad, I couldn't really say.

So, what's the price difference? $6,999 versus $7,290 for 2008 and 2009 respectively. And the colors? Seems they did away with Cobalt Blue and replaced it with Deep Blue. The Raven (black) option remains.

I'll keep an eye out for 2009 Yamaha FZ6 reviews and opinions as more people start buying them and post some thoughts here.

Latest Motor Bikes

The main reason of the success of motor bikes in India is their four stroke engine which is extremely fuel efficient. Out of the total market for two wheelers in the country, a whopping 81% is captured by this heart winning machine.

There are number of players capturing the bike market today. Hero in collaboration with Honda, TVS, Yamaha, Suzuki, the good old Royal Enfield and even the earlier scooter manufacturers like LML and Bajaj Auto are providing excellent fodder to the average bike lover. Even though all of them are providing a bike to suit everybody's needs, let us do a quick check on what is new on the shelves of the motor bike bazaar in the country!

Royal Enfield- Although the Royal Enfield Company has been giving the most sought after motor bikes in the name of Bullet since a long time, the latest in there kitty is the new Bullet Machismo 500. It is an awesome bike powered by a 500cc four stroke air cooled engine and a comfortable yet elegant design. The only thing that you can think of while riding this beauty is speed as you go va va vrooooooom!!

Hero Honda- Hero Honda has come up with quite a few new and amazing models. The Hero Honda Karizma, Hero Honda Splendor NXG, Hero Honda CBZ X-Treme and the Hero Honda Hunk are the new names that can steal your heart.

While the Karizma is good for its 223cc single cylinder, air cooled, four stroke engine which produces optimum power of 17bhp at 7000rpm and its beefy 'VFR 800' kind of looks, the Splendour NXG gives stylish new looks and a high performance engine. While the original CBZ won the entire nation's and particularly the youth's hearts over, the CBZ extreme comes with features like more power, self start and good design attributes like a powerful windscreen.

TVS- TVS has been constantly updating its technology in the biking segment and has latest come out with TVS Apache Fi 160, which is a bike custom made for racing freaks and speed lovers. The design is sporty and flashy plus has been made keeping in mind the comfort of the rider during a speedy ride. A 160cc four stroke engine and a five speed transmission is all that you need next for a high flying experience.

Yamaha- Since the good old days of the popular Yamaha Crux, to the latest sizzling YZF series, Yamaha seems to be the first choice of everybody when it comes to some real biking. After the Enticer, Gladiator and Libero, Yamaha has now decided to woo the Indian race biker's heart by launching Yamaha YZF R1, YZF- R15, the MT 01 and even the Yamaha FZ 150cc.

While the R1 and R15 attract you with there killer looks and a high performing engine, you will love the shear power and speed of the MT 01. It is a 1670cc, high speed bike which will win your sights and hearts with its handsome looks.

When you check out for the latest in the bike world, what you choose for yourself is rather a personal choice. However, if speed and looks is what you want primarily from your motor bikes, we have told you pretty much where to look at!

About the Author

Yamaha A History

A massively diverse company, Yamaha's history can be taken back to their humble beginnings as piano and organ manufacturers before the turn of 20th century.

In 1887, a talented Japanese man, Torakusu Yamaha began manufacturing pianos and reed organs as a small company, Nippon Gakki. The company grew slowly but surely over the coming years and started to become extremely proficient and respected in the field of metallurgy.

Just over 50 years later saw Nippon Gakki take their first steps into the motorbike industry. Recycling their machinery that was used for production throughout World War II, Yamaha put their honed metallurgy skills to use and with the help of some highly respected motorbike designers, produced their first motorbike, the YA-1. 150 of these 'Red Dragonfly's' were made in 1958, Yamaha's first year of motorbike production. The motorbike had a 125cc engine and was both hotly anticipated and widely accepted. It was so successful, that only a year later Nippon Gakki formed a subsidiary of their company to work on their motorbike production side alone - named the Yamaha Motor Co. Ltd.

The 1950's and 1960's in Japan were a fierce time for production and manufacturing companies, namely in the motorbike industry. It's noted that over 150 motorbikes manufacturers were producing motorbikes at one point. Of course, not every company could have a long life and only a handful survived. Whilst Yamaha were only a young company in terms of the number of years they had been producing motorbikes, the quality of their bikes and their respected position within the manufacturing industry ensured that they sailed through this tough period to become triumphant in the production of motorbikes.

1970 brought the production of Yamaha's first four stroke motorbike, the XS-1. Designed similar to a British road bike, this, coupled with its powerful 650cc kept the XS-1 in production for over a decade, which was highly unusual, but greatly respected throughout this period of motorbike production.

Throughout the 1980's, the Superbike market was primarily Yamaha's. Launching a range of motorbikes, namely the next generation FZR750, the FZR1000, the motorbikes were a force to be reckoned with on the racing circuit. Matching any other Superbike on the racing track at the same time, the FZR1000 was enhanced over the years, each release bringing a new and improved feature of the bike, making it more powerful, successful and popular.

Yamaha's most famous motorbike, the YZF-R1 was released in 1998 with a massive 998cc engine. Its famous handling, mixed with its lightweight frame made it both an ideal racing motorbike as well as a popular road bike. As with the FZR1000, the R1 was modified over the following years to become one of the most desirable racing motorbikes ever produced.

For over 100 years, Yamaha have been products for both the public and private sector. Whether it was their initial venture in the world of pianos and organs or their later production of famous and popular motorbikes, Yamaha have continued one thing throughout - their high level of quality. It can be seen in every single item Yamaha produce, meaning once you see the Yamaha sign, you can guarantee the product will be a worthwhile buy. When you buy one, ensure proper coverage with a Yamaha Motorbike Insurance policy.

The Ins And Outs Of Yamaha

One of the companies closely associated with the superbike racing word is Yamaha. Speed, Looks, and Thrills are few of the things that come to mind when people think about Yamaha bikes. Yamaha Bikes comprise of normal outdoor, as well fast and mean racing bikes. It is a Japan-based company that is renowned all over the world, with a yearly net income of about 400 million USD. Yamaha was formed in 1887 - but initially it was meant to manufacture reed organs and pianos. In 1953, after World War II, Yamaha gained expertise in manufacturing bikes in categories such as racing and dirt racing. For a long time Yamaha Bikes have proved to be one of the favourites of superbike racers all around the world.

There are few categories in which Yamaha bikes are manufactured, and they are Super Sport, Dirt Bikes, Outdoor bikes and Star Bikes. YZF - R1 is one of the latest offerings from Yamaha under the Super Sport category. Priced at £8375, the bike comes in blue, white, yellow, pearl, and black. The bike has a 1000 cc engine displacement, comes with one full year warranty and is equipped with a 6 gear system. Another latest offering from the same category is the FZ6R, which is priced at £4690 and is available with a 600 cc engine displacement. From the many colours that are available, examples include pearl white, yellow, and blue.

In addition to the above mentioned super sport bikes, Yamaha even manufactures dirt bikes. These dirt bikes are a lot lighter in weight when compared with the racing bikes, and the engine displacement does not exceed 500 cc. Moreover, these dirt bikes are equipped with a 2 stroke engine. In terms of dirt bikes, the Yamaha YZ series are the most popular bikes, and the most preferred. The WR250F is one bike that comes under the 'outdoor bikes' category, and has an engine displacement of 250 cc. The bike is priced at £7035. The bike is equipped with 4 stroke engine and has been provided with better fuel efficiency technology. Yamaha YZF R15 is another offering from Yamaha in Asian countries, and has an engine displacement of 150 cc, and is priced at about £2010.

Talking about the servicing and maintenance charges, Yamaha bikes are known to be the most economical as they require the least servicing. Yamaha bikes need to get a service after about 10000 miles, and the labour charges are a lot cheaper in comparison to other companies (being £13 /hour). In addition to this, the servicing and maintenance cost differs for bikes in different categories. As for Super Sport bikes, the service charges are the most expensive, and the least expensive being for the normal outdoor bikes. Charges for other services like changing of engine oil, brakes, brake oil, and tyres ranges between £27 and £200. Also make sure to enquire with quality insurers about Yamaha Bike Insurance policies to provide the coverage you need.

A Guide to this Year's Hottest Superbikes

We're told to be certain of two things in life: death and taxes. Well let's add another to the list - every year Superbikes will get faster, lighter and more powerful.

The latest crop of Superbikes for 2009 doesn't disappoint. In fact, you could even call it a vintage year. Competition has been spiced up with a new V4 engine configuration, gate-crashing the once-exclusive party of the twins and inline fours. Meanwhile, electronic gadgetry like ABS, has been fitted to a Superbike for the first time, setting new technological benchmarks in the pursuit for ultimate speed.

But take note, these bikes aren't cheap and their performance is blistering, so make sure you have adequate bike insurance if you're thinking of buying one.

An overview of the hottest Superbikes of the year...

1. Aprilia RSV4

Aprilia came, saw and conquered on board its new RSV4 Superbike. Lighter than a Honda Fireblade and already racking up podiums in its maiden World Superbike Championship; the state-of-the-art RSV4 is truly a force to be reckoned with. A real rider's machine, the chassis can be fine-tuned to suit styles, from steering head angle to swing-arm pivot location.

Engine: liquid-cooled, 65-degree, 1000cc V4

Power: 177bhp

Weight: 179kg

2. Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade

More than any other machine, the Fireblade defines the term Superbike and since 1992, it has set the benchmark. 17 years on and the Fireblade still dares to be different. This year it became the first Superbike ever to be fitted with ABS. Critics argue it takes the skill and finesse out of riding, Honda says it's safer and will make you quicker on the racetrack.

Engine: liquid-cooled, in-line four of 999cc

Power: 175bhp

Weight: 199kg

3. Ducati 1198S

No other manufacturer has been so consistently successful on the racetrack than Ducati, with World Superbike Championship trophies literally clogging the cabinets of its Bolognese headquarters. In its iconic red-racing colours, nothing says Superbike passion quite like an 1198S. Updated for 2009, making it more powerful than ever before, it's already the red-hot favourite to win another world championship trophy.

Engine: liquid-cooled, 1198cc, V-twin

Power: 168bhp

Weight: 173kg

4. Suzuki GSX-R1000

If you see a Superbike on the road, chances are it's a GSX-R1000. A consistent best-seller and beloved by the British public, the Gixxer, as it's affectionately dubbed, has always been one of the cheapest and most powerful two-wheeled rockets in the showrooms.

Engine: in-line four-cylinder, liquid-cooled unit of 999cc

Power: 183bhp

Weight: 172kg

Kenny Pryde - Yamaha YZF-R1

What the hell happened this month? I'll tell you, it started to rain and the temperature dropped alarmingly. One day I was riding to work in summer attire and the next I had to dig out the yellow-pinlock clear visor, a winter jacket and my EDZ jacket liner. There's a period of denial for every rider in the UK when you really don't want to admit to yourself that summer is well and truly over and autumn has pitched up.

Autumn, as we all know, can turn to winter in less than 24 hours, so the end of summer effectively means winter has arrived. But enough of the doom and (literal) gloom, I'm still struggling to find fault with the R1. All the clichés come rushing to mind...effortless power on tap, a load of torque, damn smooth power delivery, comfortable riding position, beautiful poise and on and on and on... But isn't that the point?

The R1 - at least until the arrival of the limited edition R1SP - is Yamaha's fl agship road bike. This is as good a road bike as Yamaha makes and you'd expect it to be good, wouldn't you? Actually, I am forced to recall what I wrote on these pages a couple of years ago (is it two years already?) when I was on an R6 for the year. I said something to the effect that 600cc was as much as most people needed most of the time. I wrote it and meant it.

Well, after a couple of seasons on 1,000cc bikes, I'm changing my mind. The presence and the lowdown grunt make the R1 a better road bike than any 600, which is to say that if you are getting frustrated in traffi c and fi nd yourself itching to overtake, well, with a generous spread of torque, you can squirt past anything anytime and not scare oncoming traffic, merely nod, wave and smile as you carry on your merry way.

Suzuki GSX-R1000K9 Road Test

If there was ever a bike that's easy to misunderstand it's the latest GSX-R1000. It's specification sheet and, perhaps more importantly its 'GSX-R' name tag, give the impression of a beast that only experts should apply for. The reality is far different, and the Suzuki can be ridden safely by far more people, and in a much wider variety of circumstances than you'd think.

It's more real world identity isn't that obvious from a quick glance of the bike's racy-looking style. Garish and bright coloured bodywork also has the silhouette of a competition bike. And first impressions suggest more than a few miles in its seat would lead to some fairly serious physical and mental strain. Add the fact that the GSX-R is already competing well in the WSB championship and few would challenge the view that the 1000 has been designed with one priority in mind - speed, and lots of it.

Swing your leg over it though, and nestle into the relatively roomy riding position and your opinion is bound to change. There's no need whatsoever to make any sacrifices to comfort. Neither limbs nor neck feel they've been asked to contort themselves in any way to fit the bike. OK, it's no Goldwing, but neither is it something only a gymnast would feel at home on. I personally would be happy to ride all the way to Scotland and back on the Suzuki. I'd prefer it if the journey was predominantly dry and I didn't need to carry too much luggage. Though in saying that, the fairing does at least give some decent enough shelter and a tank bag could swallow a fair few essentials to make the trip more bearable. For a long single day's ride, only the most luxury-needy would find fault. There's even a chance to adjust the two-position footrests to aid the civility further.

Civilised is not an apt description for the pillion accommodation mind you. High footrests force much knee-bending, and the seat is too small to give the same support as the rider's. Its high elevation means the passenger towers above the relatively prone rider catching the wind and making the whole experience one to forget, even after little.

However, that's about it when it comes to criticism of the bike's refinement. And that's pretty much the case however you ride it. Suzuki's designers and engineers definitely had you, the road rider, in mind just as much as the likes of BSB star Sylvain Guintoli when they set about building this bike.

Yamaha Road Bikes - Types of Road Bikes Available

Yamaha Dealers located around the world offer road bike enthusiasts a wide range of motorcycles that appeal to each and every individual rider. We have outlined four of the many road bikes currently available from Yamaha Dealers below, listing a few distinctive characteristics for each bike.
The Yamaha V-Max
This powerful and reliable V4 engine motorcycle has been designed to provide riders with an unforgettable combination of innovation and acceleration. This motorcycle is powered by the all-new liquid-cooled 4-stroke V4 engine.
Four unbeatable features that distinguish this bike from others on the market include:
1. Wicked acceleration feeling, together with strong performance.
2. Individual, precise and sharp handling.
3. A superior chassis with unique bodywork.
4. In compliance with EU3 regulations.
The Yamaha YZF-R1Y
This innovative and exciting motorcycle has been designed with the all-new 998cc engine whose design, feel and make-up has been influenced by Rossi's championship winning M1, the new high-tech R1 powerplant is very much linked to a Moto GP bike.
Unique features of this bike include:
1. An entirely redesigned aluminium Deltabox chassis.
2. Hard-line new styling give the new-generation YZF-R1 a major new look.
3. Sets a new standard for the super-competitive 1000cc supersport category.
The Yamaha YZF-R6 09
This high-rpm engine motorcycle with its application of variable-length intakes has added effect than it does on the R1, improving transitional power features and power feel from mid-range through to 14,500rpm. The unique personality of this bike comes from rigid testing and development undergone by engineers - offering riders remarkable satisfaction when ridden.
Further exclusive features of this bike include:
1. Yamaha Chip-Controlled Intake in addition to the Yamaha Chip-Controlled Throttle.
2. New-design piston with a somewhat convex head shape and shallower valve recess.
3. The new crankshaft bearing is wider and stronger.
4. New rigidity and strength balance, further improving the matchless R6 handling.
The YZF-R1X 08
For super-sport performance you can't go past this Yamaha R1 motorcycle. This bike has astonishing responsiveness that reacts almost telepathically to rider input. The agility and steering precision delivered by this bike really has to be experienced to be believed.
A few elite features of this bike include:
1. Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle which senses a rider's wrist position & delivers accordingly.
2. Yamaha Chip Controlled Intake - the first electronically controlled & driven variable-intake funnel system ever fitted to a production motorcycle.
3. The R1's slipper clutch provides stupendous control of engine braking.
There are simply dozens of road bikes available to buy in the marketplace today. Yamaha Dealers can be found worldwide. Locate your local dealer today and check out a road bike for yourself.

Yamaha R6 2009 Model

There is nothing like riding a motorcycle. In classic films like Easy Rider, the motorcycle was immortalized as the ultimate way of exploring the country. Why not? With the wind whipping through your hair and no doors or roof to restrain you, it's easy to feel free.
For those who are looking to purchase a new motorcycle, the number of options can be a bit overwhelming. You can buy bikes that provide luxury and a superior driving experience or ones that are pure power. In this article, we are going to take a look at the Yamaha R6.
Before we examine the specifics of this particular model, let us first take a look back at the history of this fine company. In 1953, Yamaha manufactured some of the finest musical instruments in the world. They had no connection or experience with motorcycles whatever. However, when a new president took the helm, he decided the company was doing well enough to move into other areas of business. Because of the lack of competition in the industry, the president decided to focus on motorcycles. After only a few months of research and development, the company produced its first model, the Yamaha YA-1.
In order to build a reputation, the young firm entered its new product in the two biggest racing events in Japan. In the first year, their new bike placed first in the 125cc class. The next year the bike won the gold in both the Light and Ultra-light classes.

The Rise of the New 2010 Yamaha YZF-R1 Bike

The much awaited debut of the newest Yamaha YZF-R1 super bike is all set to hit dealerships around the world. India will bow to the YZF-R1's arrival in the early part of 2010 without an exact price tag that will be announced as soon as the YZF-R1 is launched. India, one of the fortunate countries to enjoy the great products of Yamaha, has established a home dealership that is in a roll at present. Today, they are presenting the new Yamaha New YZF-R1 bike in the Indian Auto sector. Even though it does now appear in a skid of new-fangled graphic treatments and modifications, for 2010 Yamaha has retained the present and revolutionary YZF-R1 trademark with the same platform, as well as a Limited Edition model. Smooth and cool base model colours will brace one of the YZF-R1 models featuring an modernized Team Yamaha Racing Blue/White, Raven Black and Pearl White, while the "LE" is a Valentino Rossi mock-up. The new Yamaha YZF-R1 will debut in different range of colours like Black, yellow and white. The front Brake is dual discs and rear brake is single disc. This bike will available with tubeless tires. This bike is coming with alloy wheels. This bike is supported by digital fuel gauge and speedometer. It will also come with same graphics as the M1 MotoGP bike which includes The Doctor's signature on every tank. On the other hand, the rest of the bike's components stay exactly the same as stock. For said graphics, one will pay $14,500 and it will be available in early days of 2010. The base model arrives with a price tag of $13,290 and it will be offered in dealerships which started last September of this year. This up and coming bike is equipped with a 998cc engine. Basically, the 2010 YZF-R1 is a high piece sports bike as expected. So what else is new with the 2K10 super bike? With a known reputation as a super wicked performer, the new YZF-R1 super bike can zoom with a top speed of 200 KPH. It weighs approximately 206 kilograms or more. The engine packed right in the very heart of the New Yamaha YZF-R1 bike is DOHC 4-stroke, 4-cylinder and liquid-cooled 4-valves. It will debut along with its regular 6 speed gear box. On the other hand, Its tank capacity is 18 litres. The YZF-R1 produces a massive power of 179 bhp @ 12500 rpm and Maximum Torque of 115.5 Nm @ 10000 rpm.

Valentino Rossi-replica Paint in 2010 Yamaha R1 LE

The victorious colours and graphics on Valentino Rossi's super bike which has been used in his championship seasons can now be yours in the new 2010 Yamaha R1 LE. According to Yamaha, the motor company are obviously having an impressive year in racing with great numbers on the charts for the past seasons. MotoGP is no surprise dominated by the Doctor, Valentino Rossi while on the other hand; all season long, Ben Spies has been setting lap records and just brought home the world renowned SBK Championship lead. What a year indeed for Yamaha. As a result of Yamaha's recent series of accomplishments and dominance in motorsports world, it's no surprise that they have decided to take advantage of their winning moment by launching and offering the 2010 Yamaha R1 LE in a limited edition with Valentino Rossi's racing colours. Believe it or not, the 2010 R1 is almost unchanged from the 2009 base model with the exclusion of the Limited Edition getting the racing graphics, SOQI forks and rear shock. According to some of the reviews, this R1 bike is packed with awesome components along with a tremendous works on the suspension. Everything has gone harmoniously starting of with the Rossi colours down to its monster like performance.

Comparing The Suzuki GSX R1000 And The Yamaha YZF R1

The purchase of a motorbike can be a time consuming and very involved process. One of the main reasons that this is true is because of the high number of manufacturers that all promise to have the best available bike on the market for your purchase. Two of the top manufacturers in the industry today for producing motorbikes are Yamaha and Suzuki. Both of these companies produce dependable, high quality motorcycles and motorbikes that have gained the interest of enthusiasts around the world for many years.
The Suzuki GSX-R1000 is one of Suzuki's leading and more popular models. Two of the reasons for this are because this machine has loads of torque and a very powerful engine. This means that the bike will be able to accelerate quickly off the line. A combination of simple on board functions and a light weight body makes this motorbike very easy to handle and maneuver around corners. The Suzuki GSX-R1000 has a larger 4.8 gallon fuel tank which allows you to hold more fuel for increased ride time and less stops for refueling.
The GSX-R1000 brand new is sold for around $11,000 which is very reasonable considering the quality of motorbike you are getting. There are a number of color combinations available including blue and white, red and black, and silver and gray. This bike can be purchased at just about any Suzuki dealer or where used bikes are sold which there are many different possibilities. The GSX-R1000 is sold with a 1 year unlimited warranty when the bike is sold brand new. This bike, new or used, is definitely well worth the cost.
The Yamaha YZF-R1 is one of Yamaha's most popular bikes and is often compared to Suzuki's GSX-R1000. Yamaha has taken their 50 plus years of experience in the motorbike racing industry and created the perfect look for this great bike. With increased technological capabilities and more advanced design techniques, the creators at Yamaha have been able to make the YZF-R1 faster and more powerful by giving it more advanced engine firepower. The YZF-R1, like its Suzuki counterpart, is much lighter and maneuverable which makes it more desirable by those who are looking for this type of performance.

The Yamaha YZF-R1 Providing Revolutionary Industrial Product Design

We are constantly evolving and because of this we are always designing and improving products that came before. One example of this is the new Yamaha YZF-R1. It has revolutionised the industry and left its rival manufacturers scratching their heads about what to do with their new releases.
The YZF-R1 really was a revolution in industrial product design. It took what people expected from a motorcycle and threw it on its head. Utilising technology from their MotoGP project which many assumed was too expensive to be used on a production based motorcycle.
One of the key factors in the success of the Yamaha YZF-R1 was the cross-plane crankshaft which provides the bike with an uneven firing order, which is similar but not the same as a big bang configuration utilized on the Yamaha M1 motorbike in MotoGP. It was a huge step outside of the box when it came to industrial product design. No manufacturer had attempted to put this type of technology on a 4 cylinder motorcycle before. The benefit of having this industrial product design is that the output of power received at the rear wheel would more closely mimic that of a twin cylinder motorcycle like a Ducati.
To someone who doesn't know much about motorcycles, this might all seem like a lot of technical speak and you might be sitting there asking yourself what benefit is this going to have for me. Well to understand that we have to go back to the configuration of the engine. On a twin cylinder motorcycle there gap between the pulses of the cylinders is spaced further apart, bearing in mind we are talking about fractions of a second here. These longer gaps in the firing order allow the rear wheel to gain extra traction and in that sense makes the bit more tractable out of corners. If a bike has more traction then it can accelerate earlier out of the corners and therefore gain an advantage. It should in theory also make it more forgiven that a normal screaming four. Now that is revolutionary industrial product design and thinking outside of the box.

Motorcycles FAQ

Adding sissy dowel on Honda CBR600?We just bought a Honda CBR600 and was wondering if in attendance are any sissy bars available that would make me consistency safe while riding as a Adjusting valve on a 06 raptor 350?I would like to know how to adjust the valve on my raptor 350. How often do i call for to adjust them. If anyone could tell me from start to finish that would be great. If theres a website out near telling how to do it...passenger but won't hurt the look of tAdvice please - how do you protect your bike from brackish surrounded by winter? Especially brake discs.?Please don't bother telling me to leave your job it in the garage. Regular soap and sea I can do - but there must be some dutiful advice out near we can share. Products that work? Tips to make the soap and river quicker and...he bike since it is a sportsbike. Thanks for any info.

Yamaha R 15

Indian youth is crazy about the Yamaha bikes. Yamaha R-15 is one of the most popular bikes in the 150 cc segment. It is fabulous and thrilling sports bike which is meant for high end bike enthusiastic. It costs around Rs 1, 08,000 on road.
Yamaha R15 is one of the most attractive looking bikes. The design of this bike is inspired by earlier bikes in this series, Yamaha YZF R1. If you view at it from distance, it looks like this bike except a few changes. It has dual head lamps, rear view mirror, attractive and comfortable seating position and the streamlined shape of the tank. When on road, it is definitely a head turner. However, this bike does not have a centre stand and no safety guard. The curved handle bars add more to the charm of the bike. Most of the sports bikes have the curved handle bars. Besides looking attractive, these handle bars add to the grandeur of sitting position. However, rear part of the bike is quite small as compared to the front part.
Yamaha R15 is not like any other 150cc bike. It is a much netter performer. This bike is loved by bikers because it if great combination of looks, style and performance. It has a great pickup. Even with a pillion rider, this bike picks up easily.
This bike is equipped with strong 150 CC Liquid-cooled robust Yamaha engine. This bike can give a completely thrilling yet comfortable ride even on the rough terrains and bumpy roads in India.
This bike runs on a classic 4-stroke, Single cylinder, 4-Valave, Fuel Injected Engine. This is great engine which apart from giving dazzling performance helps you protect environment by not polluting it. This engine is equipped with forged aluminum pistons. This is a sports biking technology. Besides, it also has a Delta box frame to provide solid rigidity. Its 6-speed gear box will give speed thrills.
This Yamaha Bikes has marvelous torque of 17bhp from advanced-cooled 149.8cc engine. This kind of engine is seen first time in two wheelers in India. This helps this bike run on the rough terrains without making noise. Shock absorbers in this bike are of superb quality. Rider does not feel any shock at all. It has fuel tank capacity of 12 liters and has an electric start.
If you want to own a sports bike which is combination of style and functionality, it has to be Yamaha R15.

YAMAHA YZF-R1 Road Test

IT'S easy to become a little jaded in this job. If you're riding bikes constantly, their novelty can wear off a bit. But every so often something comes along and makes you feel like an excited teenager all over again. Yamaha's 2009-spec R1 is one such thing.
It's one of the most anticipated bikes of the year, and with all the hype that surrounds it , boosted hugely by Ben Spies' outstanding early success in World Superbike, I couldn't wait to ride the superbike. Feeling jaded suddenly felt very much a thing of the past!
Seeing the R1 for the first time in the flesh didn't really get my heart racing. It's a decent looking bike for sure, but nothing exactly outstanding. Its aggressive 'face', build quality and general shape are all attractive, but I'm not sure whether there's enough different about it to turn heads. What does set it apart though, and what is debatably the Yamaha's main draw, is its engine.
Fire it up and the unique growl from its pipes is unlike anything else on the market, though it is very similar to the noise made by one of the most famous race bikes out there , Valentino Rossi's M1 racebike. That shouldn't be any surprise really as the R1's 'crossplane' crankshaft has been inspired by the Italian's Grand Prix machine. The uneven firing order it generates is the reason the road bike sounds very similar to his racer. But more importantly, the crank arrangement is also why the R1 delivers its power in the special and very effective way it does.
Most in line four cylinder bikes, even the big capacity ones, have plenty of low down torque. But there's a certain softness to their initial drive at slower engine speeds. Add more revs and that acceleration becomes harder, as the effort of all four pistons combines to deliver their real meat. On this year's R1 though, there's already a noticeably harder edge to the delivery at low revs. Not quite as strong or explosive as a big V-twin's, there's still definitely a tempered version of the immediacy typical of those engines in evidence. It's a sharp, yet friendly pick up that's easily good enough to fire the Yamaha strongly from a standstill, even considering the very tall first gear ratio. And thanks to the civilised manners, you can get on the power earlier and not fret about it. It's a truly superb engine that pulls with just the same useful strength in the rest of the gears. Make no mistake though, even though the motor might sound and feel lazy, it's always capable of making some serious speed.

Top 10 Weird Sports Listed

We are all aware of popular sports, yet there are some sports that are not well known, but have a universal popularity.
Urban Golf If you don't want to stroll around the golf green and get all that healthy exercise, there is another little known alternative, Urban golf. This is where the participants attack an innocent warehouse wall with their golf ball.
Bike Polo The only way to play polo is on bikes, when you don't have any horses. This rapidly growing sport is quickly developing an international competitive calendar.
Unicycle Sport Once seen only in circuses, or on stage, the unicycle has become a universal phenomenon. From mountain racing to acrobats and balancing acts, to unicycle hockey, the one wheeler has become an overnight marvel.
Roller Derby Players Roller Derby pride themselves on their mixture of punk grit and attitude, plus real athletic ability. The women's Flat-Track Derby Association hosted its roller derby's first national championship tournament in 2007. Wife Carrying Wife carrying sport, first created in Finland, is where male competitors race while carrying a female team mate on their back. The goal is for the male to carry the female, whose job is to help maintain the balance, through a specially built obstacle course, in the quickest time. The carrying holds vary from fireman's carry, piggyback, to Estonian style, where the lady hangs on upside-down, with her legs clasped around her partner's shoulders, as she clings on to his waist. Major competitions are held in Wisconsin, Sonkajarvi, Finland, Monona and in Marquette, Michigan.
The prize is the female's weight in beer, in Finland.

The Reliable Unfavorable G Brakes

Road bikes of reputed manufacturers are very costly but their stunning efficiency on the road justifies the excessive price. These bikes are of excessive caliber and are capable of reaching astounding speeds on the road. You need a reliable set of brakes for them and nothing may very well be extra applicable than the negative g brakes which are innovatively designed. You should buy solely the brake units that have confirmed their high quality past doubt as many times good brakes have saved the lives of the bike riders. Experienced bikers go for the negative g brakes for his or her reliable stopping power regardless that they're costlier than many other brands accessible in the market. With intense research on increasing the dependability of the brake units the engineers have come out with the negative g brakes that weigh just 140 grams and but have tremendous stopping power. This brake is a revised version of the most popular zero gravity brakes that the entire world trusts. Bikers who set up the negative g brakes would find that the sunshine weight does not hamper the performance of the bike in any manner. With this brake on their facet they'll bring their racing bike to a sudden cease with out loosing their balance. This brake set is on the market in customizable colours so that they would match with the colours of your expensive street bike. The value of $429 is just right for such a beautiful brake set that provides the bikers final management over their bike below all highway conditions. These brake sets are also aerodynamically balanced and carry out constantly underneath all weather conditions. When a biker racing at high pace on the street wants to swirl round in two or three seconds he could trust solely the power of negative g brakes to achieve this fete.

Electric Dirt Bikes vs Gas

A lot of you out there didn't know that they made electric dirt bikes for kids. So now obviously you want to understand the differences between gas versus electric before you make that purchase, then you'll want to read this article. I'll discuss about electric power versus gasoline, how gasoline bikes contribute to air pollution, and also causes noise pollution. After you're done with this article you should be able to make the right decision based on what kind of rider you are.
First of all what kind of a rider are we talking about, the hardcore motocross racer or the young weekend rider just looking for some fun. If you're the hardcore motocross racer than the gas guzzling noise maker is probably what you want, though I hear that BMW and some other companies are making some major breakthroughs in the electric dirt bike industry. People actually race with electric bikes on the motocross tracks as I heard recently. But if you're the parent shopping for a kid who only wants to experience the thrill of the riding on in motocross than the electric dirt bike has many advantages.
Did you know that motorcycles and scooters often cause more pollution than cars, shocking isn't it? That's because the motorcycles and scooters have lower pollution control standards than cars and I'm talking about the ones driven on the highways. A car on the average puts out 9.41 tonnes of CO2 during construction and and the motorcycle puts out 13.7. Also the motorcycle releases more carbon monoxide (CO), nitrous oxides (NOx), and unburnt gas (HC's) into the air which has bad human health impacts. Imagine the toxin release put out by dirt bike with no emission control standards and mufflers, it's no wonder they're so smokey and noisy
Sure fuel consumption wise the motorcycle is twice as efficient than the car, but because they are smaller and don't have the capacity to carry things like a heavy catalytic converters they put out 10 times more air pollution than an SUV with the release of large amounts of Nitrogen oxides. So choosing the electric bike over the gas one will not only save you money at the pump but also you will be doing our environment a big favor.

Bike Stem Guide

When purchasing a Carbon Bike Stem, you should consider several factors. First you must determine headset type (threadless or quill). Then you must match it to a steerer tube diameter and a handlebar diameter. Finally, you must decide what length and how much rise or drop you want your bike stem to give you. Once you have decided on those characteristics, you must decide on the material you'd like and consider its price.
Stem type
The two main types of bike stems are "threadless" and "quill." The type of stem required is determined by the headset and carbon forks installed on your bicycle--either threaded or threadless. Once you have determined which headset style your bicycle requires, you must determine the different compatibility factors: steerer tube diameter and handlebar diameter.
Steerer tube diameter
Carbon Bike Stem attach to the bike via the steerer tube. Threadless stems clamp around the steerer, while quill stems use compression to attach to the inside of the steerer.
* Threadless Threadless headsets and carbon forks come in four standard sizes: 1-inch, 1-1/8-inch, 1-1/4-inch and 1-1/2-inch. These sizes correspond to matching stem sizes. 1-1/8-inch headsets are the current leader in the headset race. However, with new trends always surfacing and old trends always resurging, this could change in the future.
* Quill Threaded headsets come in 1-inch, 1-1/8-inch and 1-1/4-inch sizes with corresponding quill stems sized down for the internal diameter of the fork's steerer tube. 1-inch threaded headsets were the industry standard for decades and remain very popular in the vintage and retro bike world. They remain the most widely used and readily available.
Handlebar diameter

Carbon Road Bikes - What To Look For

Carbon Frame is an ever more popular frame material, it really is basically more advanced than metal tubing for building bicycle frames, and thus carbon road bikes themselves are advanced. The fibrous composition of this substance, gives it an evident "grain" when compared with metal. A properly-designed carbon fiber bike frame should have the fibers aligned to be able to provide ideal strength at the areas of highest stress.
Carbon Frame road bikes are an aspirational product. They have an impressive blend of every little thing you may want, they supply the most effective stability with high performance, comfort as well as design and style. Whenever manufactured correctly, carbon fiber bikes may easily be around 3 times lighter in weight when compared to next best quality material, also remaining a lot more ridged and also much, much stronger. Because of this carbon fiber is popular within the motor racing and aircraft industries.
Another factor is the comfort Carbon Frame gives. Carbon is wonderful at absorbing vibrations it is therefore excellent for use on the highway. This really is due to good old time design as well as the damping features in the resin utilized to bond the fiber layers together. Carbon frame also has a matchless capacity to be manufactured into virtually any form wished-for, all round you'll have a sleek, lightweight, comfy, and extremely fast carbon road bike.
So is there a catch? Clearly, Carbon Frame bikes are in very high demand from buyers. Nearly all cycle makers understand they must provide a minumum of one carbon bike within their range so as to compete with the many other brands. Frequently these kind of bikes become really a presentation product rather than a proper racing bike, therefore generally are lacking substantially in design as well as quality. Due to cost the carbon can be bought through the least expensive priced seller compromising robustness as well as good quality.

Fitting a Road Bike Frame to Your Needs

When you have the good fortune to be looking at new bicycles, though, you definitely want to look at a few elements besides the color of a road bike frame.Face it.When you're on your way back home from a long Sunday ride and you're riding your thirty-fifth mile smack into a stiff headwind, the fact that your frame is cobalt blue or even Bianchi green is not going to help you.The length of your carbon seatpost is going to help you and the length of your top tube and even the angle of the three main tubes all put together is going to help (or hinder) you, but color is not.
If you shop at a discount store or even a general purpose sports store, if you get any help at all in choosing a bike that fits you, it will probably consist of a clerk instructing you to stand over the top bar of the frame and see if you can comfortably straddle it with your feet on the floor.This is not really particularly helpful, especially if you happen to have anything unique about your physique, like long legs combined with a short torso.If you have long legs, you can straddle almost any bike, but will your body be able to relax comfortable in the stretch between your saddle and the handlebars?The whole geometry of the road bike carbon framem atters a lot to fit.And fit matters excessively to comfort.

Basic Motorcycle Types Simplified

Motorcycle enthusiasts come from all walks of life. Doctors, lawyers, truck drivers, and businessmen all come together on common ground when motorcycling. Age and gender mingle harmoniously. The generation gap is nonexistent. Motorcycle types are as diverse as the people who ride them. There are dirt bikes, touring bikes, sports bikes and choppers. Insurance is cheaper than auto insurance and quotes can be requested from most online car insurance companies. It doesn't take much to become a part of the motorcycle community. Just a love of motorcycles and aOnce a year, eastern New Hampshire and western Maine is inundated with hoards of migrating motorcycle fanatics. Riders aren't the only visitors to northern New England. People who want to learn of the sport and those who are aspiring to some day own their own bike also go to learn all they can about the different types of bikes. Touring bikes are made for long distance travel and comfort. They are almost comparable to a car without the enclosed feeling. They have comfortable seats, radios, large wind deflectors, and lots of storage. These bikes are perfect for summer road trips. Choppers are the sports cars of the motorcycle world. Lots of chrome, tall forks, loud exhausts, and leather, leather, leather are the chopper trademarks. These bikes were made popular by hard core motorcycle lovers and made famous by television biker gangs, but you don't have to be hard core or a gang member to enjoy these flashy bikes. Once a year, eastern New Hampshire and western Maine is inundated with hoards of migrating motorcycle fanatics. Riders aren't the only visitors to northern New England. People who want to learn of the sport and those who are aspiring to some day own their own bike also go to learn all they can about the different types of bikes. Touring bikes are made for long distance travel and comfort. They are almost comparable to a car without the enclosed feeling. They have comfortable seats, radios, large wind deflectors, and lots of storage. These bikes are perfect for summer road trips. Choppers are the sports cars of the motorcycle world. Lots of chrome, tall forks, loud exhausts, and leather, leather, leather are the chopper trademarks. These bikes were made popular by hard core motorcycle lovers and made famous by television biker gangs, but you don't have to be hard core or a gang member to enjoy these flashy bikes.

Kawasaki Z750 Price & Value

Price is crucial for this category of bike. Presumably we’re right in assuming that if you’re in the market for one of these bikes then you can’t afford, or don’t want to pay for, the latest and greatest sports bike. Right? If so don’t worry because I’ll let you into a secret; sports bikes might be the ideal and look the best but for most people most of the time there’s very little you could do on them that you can’t on these budget hooligans – and the rest of the time you’ll have an easier time living with them too.
google_protectAndRun("ads_coreOK, for the extra money of say a CBR600RR you get a smidgeon more power (but not as much as you’d think) and you certainly get a far better chassis. Open the throttle and get a lick on anywhere off a motorway and you notice a saggy back end on the Hornet, a rodeo-like ride on the Bandit and a harshness to the Z750 similar to a swift drive down a country lane on a horse cart. But it’s easy to get lost trying to pick fault in this way.They aren’t meant to do so much and the beauty of their partially limited capabilities is you know exactly how fast you’re going and how hard you can try. There’s no masking the truth, but while you’re not going to ride round the outside of a Ducati 999R it’s not like you’re riding around on a BSA Bantam. If you’re new to biking this is as good a place as any to learn how tyres grip, how chassis’ move and ex with the road and how you as a rider affect all that..google_render_ad", google_handleError, google_render_ad);

The Ever So Popular Pit Bikes

The exact definition of a pit bike is hazy, with different manufacturers and providers offering different products under the general definition of a ‘pit bike’. What can’t be disputed is that a pit bike is smaller than a regular motorcycle, with the first pit bikes featuring engines just 50cc in size, although now they may range from that original 50cc through to a much greater 200cc. The majority of bikes classified under this title boast wheels of a smaller size than 12” at the back, and 14” at the front.How did pit bikes originate?In the late 1990s a new trend was starting to spread across the world from the United States. Honda’s small, 50cc motorbike, the z50, had become the popular choice for pro racers to use within the pits that could be found at dirt bike races when they weren’t racing. However, the bikes weren’t only good for riding up and down the edges of pits, with movies showcasing moves including jumping bicycle jumps sparking the interest of the masses.Although Honda dominated the scene for several years, it wasn’t long before other manufacturers jumped onto the bandwagon. In 2002, Kawasaki launched their KLX110 which was both larger and faster than Honda’s modest z50. Being larger in size, it was a more comfortable ride for larger pit bike riders hence its increase in popularity. Honda’s XR50 is still a popular choice though.Today, the sport of pit bike racing has developed into such a phenomenon that some racers have found that they are able to earn a reasonable full time living from it. With a range of race series featured both in the US and around the world, pit bike racing looks set to continue with both amateur and professional interest aplenty.