Revealed: Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin

In 2014, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin prototype caused quite a stir at EICMA, in Milan. It was Japan’s answer to the BMW R1200GS – a motorcycle that has pretty much dominated the adventure-tourer segment across the globe. Why did this come as big news to enthusiasts, you may ask. Well, that’s because the production of Honda’s last twin-cylinder adventure bike, the XRV750 (or the old Africa Twin), was halted well over a decade ago. But, since displaying the concept, it appears the lads back in Japan have been at it night and day to see this 1,000cc, parallel-twin beaut through to production. And boy, hasn't this gone well.

Honda has revealed that there will be multiple versions of the CRF1000L on offer, differentiated by the number of features. Nestled in the new steel semi-double cradle frame is a compact 998cc, parallel-twin motor that pumps out 74bhp and 98Nm of torque. Another talking point with this motorcycle is the choice of gearboxes: you can have a six-speed manual transmission, or a six-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) with on- and off-road riding modes. The Africa Twin's wet weight is rated at 228kg, 232kg for the ABS model, and 242kg with the DCT. While the base model comes with minimal electronic aids, the top-end versions will come strapped with tech like the three-level Honda Selectable Torque Control System (HSTC), an ABS system that allows the rider to switch off ABS for the rear wheel. Also, the DCT boasts of incline detection technology, where the gear shift pattern adapts to the degree of an incline to provide optimum control.

Just like the old Africa Twin, the new CRF1000L is designed to balance high-speed stability with genuine off-road tractability. Inspired by the likes of the Honda CRF450R Rally bike, the Africa Twin uses 21/18-inch front and rear wire-spoke wheels, wearing 90/90-21 and 150/70-18 rubber. Dual headlights maintain the original’s signature presence and the seat can be raised or dropped by 20mm to 870mm or 850mm. A large 18.8-litre fuel tank – coupled with the fuel efficient engine – provides the 1000L with a range of up to 400km.

The Africa Twin will be available in four colour options: CRF Rally, Tricolour, silver and black, but the best part about this bike is that its asking price of €12,100 (around Rs 9.24 lakh) is significantly lesser than its main rival (abroad) from the Bavarian stable, the BMW R1200GS.

Courtesy : BBC Top Gear

Hero MotoCorp has announced that it will acquire the assets of its bankrupt US -based technical partner, Erik Buell Racing. As part of a settlement agreement with court-appointed receiver, Hero MotoCorp subsidiaries HMCL NA Inc and HMCL Americas Inc will take over certain tangible and intangible of EBR free and clear of all encumbrances, for a consideration of $ 2.8 million.

HMCL entities and the receiver have also agreed to resolve all disputes and fully give mutual release in terms of settlement agreement for all subject matters which is in any way related to EBR entities. The agreement is contingent upon the approval by the Circuit Court and the approval of the board of directors of Hero MotoCorp authorising its joinder as a direct party to the settlement agreement on or before August 10, 2015.

EBR was founded in 2009. In 2013, Hero MotoCorp acquired a 49.2% stake in the company for a sum of $ 25 million. In 2012, the Indian company had entered into an agreement with EBR to source technology for high-end bikes.

Courtesy : Team BHP

Features of the Michelin X Multi range:

• Tread rubber compound that slows the tread rubber wear rate
• Hexagonal tread design
• Tread and casing design that allows for maximum contact with the road surface
• Elastic rubber compound for the new crown design, which reduces tyre damage
• Reinforced bead design with more metallic wires
• Double sector mold technology, for even wear and tear on the tyre and for better handling during high speed driving
• Compliance with the environmental standards to control fuel consumption and reduce noise
• Usability on all roads and in all weather conditions

Courtesy : Team BHP.

Internally known as Last Mile Surfer, the three-wheeled scooter weighs 11kg and has a near 20km range.

Volkswagen has revealed its new foldable three-wheeled electric scooter. Known internally as the Last Mile Surfer, the production version of the scooter is also likely to carry this name.

The scooter has been developed to be carried in a car's boot. This will enable motorists to park their cars outside crowded city spaces and use the scooter for the final phase of their journey, instead of relying on public transport.

The auto giant claims the Last Mile Surfer weighs around 11kg and comes with a range of nearly 20km. Volkswagen's three-wheeler will be powered by a lithium-ion battery.

According to Volkswagen chairman Martin Winterkorn, the Last Mile Surfer will go on sale in 2016 for less than 1000 euros (approximately Rs 70,000). He suggested that it could be offered in the UK at around £700 (around Rs 50,000).

Courtesy : Autocar

An exclusive ride was arranged for all 100 Benelli motorcycle owners to celebrate the positive response.

DSK Motowheels and Benelli has achieved a milestone in motorcycle sales once again. After the quick sales recorded in the Bengaluru showroom, the brand has now registered sales of 100 motorcycles in Pune as well. To celebrate the event, all 100 motorcycle owners partook in a ride to Khandala and back.

This exclusive ride featured all Benelli-made motorcycles, from the TNT 300, the TNT 600i, the TNT GT, TNT 899, and the one we recently reviewed, Benelli’s flagship for India, the TNT R.

Shirish Kulkarni, Chairman, DSK Motowheels said, “Since the launch of our exclusive showroom for DSK Benelli superbikes, we have received an overwhelming positive response. The remarkable feat of achieving 100 superbike sales in Pune, not only highlights the brand value and customer patronage of DSK Benelli, but also demonstrates the growing market for superbikes in India.”

Shirish also handed over the key of the 100th Benelli motorcycle sold to its owner on this day.

Courtesy : Autocar.