Saturday, January 31, 2009

New black/orange colours for Moto Morini 1200 Sport



Moto Morini has introduced a new black and orange colour scheme for its 1200 Sport.

Nice!!

Ride safe.


Jon Booth


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BMF urges motorcyclists to speak up for bus lane use

Apparently not enough motorcycle riders are responding to the Transport for London on-line survey and saying how safe and convenient the bus lane use in London.

So if you don't want to lose the newly gained right to ride in London's bus lanes as this is only an 18 month tria,l then add your comments to the TfL survey that can be found at: https://www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl/roadusers/finesandregulations/motorcycleinbuslanes/default.aspx


Ride safe.


Jon Booth


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BMW UK motorcycle registrations up 15%

BMW Motorrad UK appear to have beaten the credit crunch for 2008!

UK motorcycle registrations fell by 5.3%*, but in 2008, BMW Motorrad UK achieved its highest ever number of registrations, increasing year on year sales by 15%, with a total of 5,850 bikes sold.

Combined sales of the R 1200 GS and its Adventure variant unofficially made it the UKs best-selling bike. Registrations totalled 2,411 units, up 21% over 2007.

BMW Motorrad increased its market share from 5% to 6% in 2008, to become the 6th best selling motorcycle manufacturer in the UK.

*Statistics supplied by The Motorcycle Industry Association Limited

Ride safe.


Jon Booth


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Yamaha X-Max Special Editions




Yamaha have announced special editions of their Yamaha X-Max 125 and 250cc scooters for 2009.

These Special Editions have carbon style instrument faces, a new seat skin material, hot red instrument backlighting and a unique 3D logo.

Plus special wheel graphics join a lockable knee box and under seat storage space for 2 helmets.

Ride safe.
Jon Booth


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Friday, January 30, 2009

More of the Harley-Davidson XL 883 Iron

Thanks to Harley-Davidson we've got some more pictures of the new Harley-Davidson XL 883 Iron (see earlier blog on this model) for you to view.





But wait we can go one better we've got a great video from Harley-Davidson of the new XL 883 Iron in action!




Hope you enjoy the video as much as I did!

Ride safe.
Jon Booth


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Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Restyled version of the Buell City X XB9SX



As an addition to their 2009 model line up Buell have introduced a restyled version of the Buell City X XB9SX, it is a new fully blacked-out version.

A new black powdercoat finish has been applied to the frame, swingarm, engine, fork tubes, triple clamps, brake calipers and other components.

The Buell City X XB9SX will make its UK debut at the MCN London Motorcycle Show at ExCel between 29 January and 1 February 2009.

For those who don't make it to the show or who can't wait, there's a pic of the new model above.
Ride safe.
Jon Booth


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Harley-Davidson introduces the XL 883 Iron



Harley-Davidson is introducing a new model at the forthcoming MCN London Motorcycle Show at Excel (29 Jan - 1 Feb), the Harley-Davidson XL 883 Iron as an entry level bike to the Dark Custom Range.

In black from fender to fender, the new Iron 883 has the 883 Evolution engine with a carbon reinforced drive belt.

It has a black powder-coated 883cc Evolution powertrain with black covers boosts with Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) and performance tuning with a flat torque curve, and the distinctive V-Twin sound from pipes on the straight cut, short dual exhaust.

It will be available in Black Denim and Brilliant Silver Denim colours, with black cast aluminium wheels, front forks and fender supports, air box cover, oil tank, belt guard, drag style handlebars and mid-mount front foot controls. A passenger pillion and/or backrest can be added to complement the classic Sportster solo seat with a height of 643mm.

As usual we've a pic of the new Harley, for those who won't get to see it at the show!
Ride safe.
Jon Booth


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Thursday, January 22, 2009

Peugeot Speedfight 3 scooter arrives Summer 09







Peugeot have announced that the new Peugeot Speedfight 3 scooter will be in UK dealers this summer.

This iconic sports scooter will now be in its third incarnation with a new design which still appears to have the sporting lines and distinctive appearance of the first Speedfight. - you can judge for yourself from the first photo's of the new sports scooter - see above.

The Speedfight 3 has a revised chassis, the fuel tank is relocated to a central position under the floor pan, lowering the centre of gravity. 32mm hydraulic forks (replacing the single arm on previous models) and larger 13” wheels, are said to give class-leading handling. Braking gets the latest technology Peugeot have fitted a dual piston radial calliper, together with the 215mm Shuricane front disc brake,

The relocated fuel tank is expanded to hold 8.5 litres (2 gallons) giving a claimed potential range of up to 150 miles. Under the seat is the substantial storage bay a with a dual function 12V socket.

Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

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Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Bajaj confirms Ninja 250R for May : EDIT: now launched!!!

UPDATED : NINJA 250R LAUNCHED: READ THE REVIEW HERE


The endless wait for the Bajaj Kawasaki Ninja 250R has already frustrated thousands of bikers in India. The bike was first shown at the Auto Expo 2008 held in New Delhi. We thought it would come last year, and then we thought Bajaj would get it in this fiscal year (before March 2008). But the Pune based company has just confirmed that they will be getting the Kawasaki Ninja 250R to India as a CBU (completely built unit) in May 2009. That means four months to go! Damn...

Some of us also thought that the bike would be assembled locally to reduce the costs. Bajaj has choosen to take the CBU route, which means pricing it below the Rs 2 lakh mark will be very difficult. Our fingers are crossed!

The Kawasaki Ninja 250R has a twin-cylinder engine producing close to 30bhp. That translates into a sub 6 second 0-100km/h sprint with a top speed in excess of 150km/h.

WORTH A READ
2009 YAMAHA R1 RIDDEN
2010 HONDA FURY
HONDA CB 1000R XESS
KYMCO QUANNON 150

2009 Yamaha VMAX Video

Just posted the following motorcycle video up on www.YouTube.com and www.inter-bike.co.uk of the 2009 Yamaha VMAX at the 2008 Carole Nash International Motorcycle and Scooter Show.




The VMAX legend continues with the all new 2009 VMAX. It has an all-new 1,679cc V4 engine providing an awesome 200 PS and 166.8 Nm of torque combined with Yamaha's new engine control technology YCC-I and YCC-T.The all-new low-profile diamond-type frame, which uses the engine as a stressed member has a mega-wide 200/50 R18 rear tyre to transfer all the V4s incredible 200 PS and 166.8 Nm of torque to the ground - the VMAX is definitely back!

Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

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Tuesday, January 20, 2009

A new Royal Enfield model for the UK



Royal Enfield has added a new Deluxe model to its range of fuel-injected Electra motorcycles, the Royal Enfield Electra EFI DL.

With a black and chrome tank with gold pinstripes and rubber knee pads, chrome mudguards front and rear, chrome tool box covers and authentic Avon Speedmaster tyres.

Power is increased to 27.5 BHP, with 41.3 Nm of torque at 4000rpm.

Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

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Monday, January 19, 2009

2009 Yamaha R1 ridden!


Don’t get too caught up on how the new R1 works, with its crossplane crank and irregular firing order, which is the same as Rossi’s factory YZR-M1 (it’s not a ‘big bang’ motor - we’ll explain all in this week’s MCN for the techies among you), all you need to know is the new engine has transformed the R1 into one of the best sportsbikes I’ve ever ridden.


This is what Senior Road Tester, Michael Neeves of MCN has to say after riding the 2009 Yamaha R1 at the Eastern Creek in Sydney.

To read more about the Rossi inspired 2009 Yamaha R1, click HERE

WORTH A READ:
2010 HONDA FURY
HONDA CB 1000R XESS
KYMCO QUANNON 150

Saturday, January 17, 2009

2010 Honda Fury : official details


York International Motorcycle Show : American Honda introduced to the world what many have deemed the most radically styled production Honda ever built: the 2010 Fury. The Fury radiates attitude and delivers a total riding experience approaching the outer limits of motorcycling.

The Fury opens the door to the most extreme level of custom looks. But once you’re rolling, the Fury experience is all about that special bond between rider and machine: the unmistakable big V-twin pulse, the characteristic Vee engine note and the no-nonsense riding stance bring you back to the core elements of riding.

Destined to become a milestone machine, the Fury captures the pure, undiluted chopper essence, places it within easy reach of nearly every rider and then backs it up with the same quality and reliability built into every Honda. It’s a radical concept in a unique package, a combination never before offered - until today.

2010 Honda FURY KEY FEATURES:

- Full-on chopper styling
- Longest wheelbase ever in a production Honda motorcycle
- Muscular V-twin power, sound and feel
- Clean looks, superior attention to detail
- Spacious riding position
- Low seat height
- Single-shock rear suspension with hard tail look
- Extra-wide 200-series rear tire
- Slim-look 21-inch front tire
- Legendary Honda fit, finish and reliability
- Unrivaled value

2010 HONDA FURY SPECIFICATIONS:

Engine Type: 1312cc liquid-cooled 52° V-twin
Bore and Stroke: 89.5mm x 104.3mm
Compression Ratio: 9.2:1
Valve Train: SOHC; three valves per cylinder
Induction: PGM-FI with automatic enricher circuit, one 38mm throttle body
Ignition: Digital with three-dimensional mapping, two spark plugs per cylinder
Transmission: Five-speed
Final drive: Shaft
Suspension Front: 45mm fork; 4.0 inches travel
Rear: Single shock with adjustable rebound damping and five-position spring preload adjustability; 3.7 inches travel
Brakes Front: Single 336mm disc with twin-piston caliper Brakes
Rear: Single 296mm disc with single-piston caliper
Tires Front: 90/90-21
Tires Rear: 200/50-18
Wheelbase: 71.24 inches Rake (Caster Angle): 38.0° Trail: 3.5 inches
Seat Height: 26.7 inches
Fuel Capacity: 3.4 gallons
Colors: Dark Red Metallic, Metallic Silver, Ultra Blue Metallic, Black, Matte Silver Metallic (2010 special color - limited production)
Curb Weight including all standard equipment, required fluids and full tank of fuel, ready to ride: 663 pounds

WORTH A READ:
Honda CB 1000R XESS!
2009 Moto Guzzi Stelvio ridden

Honda CB 1000R XESS!


The XESS (eXtreme European Streetfighter Styling) version of the CB1000R draws on the most extreme potential of this new Naked streetfighter’s intensely aggressive power. It focuses the customer’s attention on the eventual possibilities for modifying the production model to make it even more stunning.

Read the whole article at dailymotos website

Pic: dailymotos

WORTH A READ:
2009 Honda Fury
2009 Moto Guzzi Stelvio ridden

Friday, January 16, 2009

Bennetts Babes 2009 Calendar



The Bennetts Babes launch their third annual calendar in association with Two Wheels Only (TWO), the babes are back with a selection of 2009s hottest new bikes. The calendar will be available exclusively in the March issue of TWO, on sale from 23rd January. Among other bikes it will feature the BMW S1000 RR, the Triumph Bonneville and Ducati Streetfighter, as well as the Bennetts Babes of course!

Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

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CCM to launch two new models


The new CCM XTR250

The new CCM CXR230



Bolton based CCM have announced they will be unveil two new models at the Motorcycle Trade Expo which is at the NEC Birmingham from Sunday 18th to Tuesday 20th January 2009 inclusive.

The new updated CXR230 is now E3 homologated and has a new engine with a single over head cam, plus a striking white colour scheme. The CXR230 comes in trail specification as standard with supermoto wheels being offered as an optional extra.

Secondly the all-new XTR250 is also supplied as standard in trail trim, with supermoto wheels being offered as an optional extra.

With its red, white and blue design the XTR250 carries a look very similar to CCMs factory MX race bikes.

We've a couple of pic's of these new models prior to the official release!


Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

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Thursday, January 15, 2009

2009 Honda Fury unleashed

pic: motorcyclenews.com

UPDATES : OFFICIAL DETAILS HERE

Over the last few months there has been a bit of online hype regarding the development of the Honda Fury, a so called factory made chopper. I had my doubts that any company (especially Honda) would attempt to start production of a chopper style bike due to the inherent impracticality that daily riding of a chopper style bike would involve and the fact that it just seems a bit late (choppers have been around for ages...why do it now?).



The hype all started when some images of a Honda Fury patent lodged back in 2008 (it already seems so long ago) were leaked and now before it's official release at the New York International Motorcycle Show we have a photo of the finished product...God bless the internet!


Japanese manufacturers are renowned for their ability to take an already existing motorcycle and make it better but this time round they really have set themselves a huge task. Not only did they have to build a "practical chopper" but they also had to produce one that bike lovers worldwide weren't going to laugh at as it's 40+ businessman owner drove on by. I have to say they haven't done a bad job.



Here are the bikes details:
Wheel base: 1808.5mm (the longest wheelbase of any production motorcycle)
Engine: 1312cc fuel-injected and liquid-cooled V-twin
Tyres: 200 series rear tire supported by a hidden monoshock. Super skinny 90/90-21 front tire
Drive type: Shaft (no it's not a belt)

WORDS,PICS: CAFERACERSRETURN

ALSO READ:
2009 MOTO GUZZI STELVIO RIDDEN

2009 Triumph Street Triple R


Just posted the following motorcycle video up on www.YouTube.com and www.inter-bike.co.uk of the 2009 Triumph Street Triple R at the 2008 Carole Nash International Motorcycle and Scooter Show.

This is the uprated version of the standard Street Triple with fully adjustable front and rear suspension, Nissin 4-piston radial front calipers and radial master cylinder. The upside down forks are anodised black and it has Magura tapered aluminium handlebars. Enjoy!

Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

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Yamaha XJ6 arrives



Yamaha UK have announced that their new middleweight motorcycle the Yamaha XJ6 is now available in Yamaha UK dealers.

It has a 600 cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke in-line 4-cylinder engine, with all-new internals.

A newly designed easy-action clutch and 4-1 exhaust . A lightweight tubular diamond-type frame together with 41mm front forks and Monocross rear suspension system. A low seat height and an ABS version is available, this version will follow.

Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

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2009 Moto Guzzi Stelvio 1200 ridden

Pic: www.motorcycledaily.com

Barry Winfield from www.motorcycledaily.com got astride the new 2009 Moto Guzzi Stelvio 1200. Here is what he has to say

The big deal about the Moto-Guzzi Stelvio 1200 4V is how it feels to ride. You can read all about how it is named for the famous Stelvio Pass cut into the Ortles Massif, and how there are 84 hairpin bends in it, and write that off as romantic piffle. You can check out the gladiatorial looks of the bike and put that down to the usual European fascination with adventure-tourers.

But once the big Goose is rolling along under you, the accumulated engineering experience associated with a long and storied heritage are made real by the beat of the venerable V-twin, the precision of the big chassis, and the sheer organic conversation the Stelvio has with its rider. Even if you aren't a fan of this genre, or of big V-twins with shaft drive, this bike will charm you into seeing things differently......


Read the whole article HERE

Also read:
Kawasaki pulls out of MotoGP!

Saturday, January 10, 2009

New Ducati Multistrada replacement spotted


By Chris Newbigging
New bikes
06 January 2009 11:59


Ducati’s replacement for the Multistrada adventure-style motorcycle has been spotted testing in Italy.

The new bike is well advanced in to development – dealers have already been shown the sporty new model, which will completely replace the Pierre Terblanche-designed Multistrada 1100 next year.

The pictures show the bike is completely road-biased with wide sport tyres and a thick single-sided aluminium swingarm similar to the 1098.

Insiders who have seen the bike confirmed that the bike also has the Ducati 1098’s 1099cc engine, complete with Ducati’s DTC traction control system as debuted on the Streetfighter.

The bike will be unveiled at this year’s Milan show in November and available next year.

Picture courtesy of Motociclismo Spain
For the full inside story see next week’s MCN, on sale January 14 2009.

Friday, January 9, 2009

2008 UK Motorcycle sales only down 3.4%

The Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCI) have just released the figures which show that total motorcycle registrations only fell by 3.4% over 2007. This is fantastic news given the credit crunch and current economic conditions.

139,715 motorcycles, mopeds and scooters were registered in 2008, only 4,866 registrations down on 2007.

Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

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The last Peugeot Speedfight 2's


The 2009 Peugeot Speedfight R-Cup 50cc scooter

The Peugeot Speedfight LR 50cc Scooter

The existing iconic Peugeot Speedfight scooter the Speedfight 2 is being replaced by the Peugeot Speedfight 3 in the summer of 2009. Peugeot say they expect demand for the existing Peugeot Speedfight 2 to be high and have announced the final colours of the Speedfight 2 for 2009.

The Peugeot Speedfight LR with its liquid cooled 50cc 2 -stroke engine will be produced in orange/black and silver/black.

Whilst the Peugeot Speedfight R-Cup has special paint work and sponsor logos to celebrate Peugeot's success in World Rally.

As usual we've got some pic's of these great looking scooters.

Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

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Tuesday, January 6, 2009

2009 Triumph Speed Triple 15th Anniversary Edition Video

Just posted the following motorcycle video up on www.YouTube.com and www.inter-bike.co.uk of the 2009 Triumph Speed Triple 15th Anniversary Edition at the 2008 Carole Nash International Motorcycle and Scooter Show.



This special edition Speed Triple has been created by Triumph to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the model. The 15th Anniversary Speed Triple has Triumph owner John Bloor’s signature on the fuel tank (a first!), a stunning all-black colour scheme, red hand painted pin striping on the wheels, 15th anniversary decals on the bodywork, a colour matched bellypan and flyscreen, and a Triumph gel seat.

Due to be released into Triumph dealers in February 2009, in the meantime you can watch our video and dream on!

Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

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Kawasaki pulls out of MotoGP!

Kawasaki out of MotoGP - bad news. New colors for the Ninja 250R - lovely news!

Yep, the recession is having its worst effects for bikers. Kawasaki has pulled out of 2009 MotoGP... sad news, isnt it?

Most of you might be aware of the recently introduced limited edition colors for the Kawasaki Ninja 250R. In addition to Metallic Diablo Black, Sunbeam Red and Candy Thunder Blue, the 2009 Ninja 250R will be available in a Special Edition Lime Green and Metallic Diablo Black combination. The great-looking paint scheme of the new Special Edition Ninja 250R which features Kawi green with black side panels, echoes the MotoGP ZX-RR.

Will Bajaj gets these colors for India? With the Ninja 250R all set for an Indian launch, we can only pray they get these fab colors for sale here as well. Our fingers are crossed!

ALSO READ:
Riding to the worlds highest place: Day 6
Suzuki Hayabusa and Intruder tested in India
Triumph threemotard?


Honda CBF 125 review



Have just put a new motorcycle road test up on www.inter-bike.co.uk, its a review of the new Honda CBF 125 by leading motorcycle journalist Ian Kerr. The new Honda CBF 125 is the replacement model for the long standing Honda CG125, read Ian's review now to find out whether it is a worthy successor.

Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

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Monday, January 5, 2009

YAMAHA MOTORCYCLE BLACK X-MAX 250


Black, with the occasional flash of red, the BLACK X-MAX 250 is exclusivity and sophistication combined in a top-line, top quality sports scooter that goes straight to the high-end of the 250 class. Its stunning look is given a sharp technical edge by carbon-style instrument faces, a new seat skin material, hot red instrument backlighting and a unique 3D logo. Because BLACK X-MAX 250 is based on the X-MAX 250, it blends outstanding midsize handling and maneuverability with the no-questions-asked power, torque and refinement of Yamaha’s liquid-cooled, fuel-injected quarter-litre engine. Besides strong performance, there’s luxurious comfort and great accommodation for two, with a roomy dual seat providing s torage space for two helmets and a lockable knee-box. The effortlessly distinctive special-edition style of BLACK X-MAX 250 makes it a scooter that will be welcomed and admired in any social situation. It’s exquisite, and exclusive.

Features -
‘Special edition’ black and carbon finish with red accents
Motorcycle-style ride from 15inch front and 14inch rear wheels
Strong, rigid chassis for secure handling
Telescopic forks and twin rear shocks for comfort and suppleness
Twin-piston 267mm front and 240mm rear disc brakes
Reliable, refined, liquid-cooled fuel-injected 250cc four-stroke engine
Big windscreen and hand deflectors for all-year protection
Underseat storage for two helmets plus lockable knee-box


Engine -
Engine type Liquid cooled, 4 stroke single cylinder
Displacement 249.78 cc
Bore x stroke 69.0 x 66.8 mm
Compression ratio 10.0 : 1
Maximum power 15.6 kW @ 7,500 rpm
Maximum torque 21.3 Nm @ 6,500 rpm
Lubrication system Wet sump
Fuel System Fuel injection
Ignition system TCI
Starter system Electric
Transmission system V-Belt Automatic
Fuel tank capacity 12.5 L


Chassis -
Front suspension system Telescopic fork
Front travel 110 mm
Rear suspension system Unit swing
Rear travel 95 mm
Front brake Disc, Ø 267 mm
Rear brake Disc, Ø 240 mm
Front tyre 120/70-15
Rear tyre 140/70-14


Dimensions -
Length 2,210 mm
Width 790 mm
Height 1,380 mm
Seat height 755 mm
Wheel base 1,545 mm
Minimum ground clearance 113 mm
Wet weight 176 kg




Friday, January 2, 2009

Best of British - Triumph DVD



Have just published Ian Kerr's excellent review of Duke Marketing's latest DVD release which is an update of their previous VHS video entitled Best of British - Triumph, now completely up todate with all the 2008 Triumph models, read Ian Kerr's review on the home page of www.inter-bike.co.uk to find out why this is must for all Triumph motorcycle fans!



Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

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