News, Technology

A Potential Smartwatch from Nothing

Nothing, a company that has recently filed trademarks for its future smartwatch lineup, may be a couple of years away from launching its smartwatch. The fact that they have taken steps to protect their intellectual property suggests that they have a genuine interest in entering the smartwatch market.

Interestingly, this news adds context to a tweet from Nothing’s founder, Carl Pei, in which he questioned the usefulness of smartwatches and asked his followers about their experiences with them. This could have been a subtle hint at Nothing’s plans to develop their own smartwatch.

If Nothing follows through with its plans, it will be interesting to see if their smartwatch features the same unconventional design language as their other products. At this point, it is unclear whether the smartwatch will be a full-fledged Wear OS-powered device or a more budget-friendly fitness tracker. However, based on Nothing’s history, it is more likely that they will release a comprehensive smartwatch.

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5 Standout Details Of The Flagship Renault Rafale Coupe SUV


It is the first production car to sport the French carmaker’s new design language

Renault Rafale

The Renault Rafale marks the start of a new era for the French carmaker as its international flagship offering. This petrol hybrid SUV gets its name from Caudron-Renault Rafale, a monoplane which set a speed record in 1934 by flying at 445kmph. The coupe-styled Rafale SUV comes loaded with tech and here are its top five highlights:

Hybrid Powertrains

The Renault Rafale has been unveiled with a petrol hybrid powertrain which gets a 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine (130PS/205Nm) that comes with two electric motors and an automatic gearbox. The main electric motor is powered by a 2kWh battery pack that generates 50PS/205Nm and the secondary motor has an output of 25PS/50Nm which is used to start the engine and power the gear changes. With this setup, the Rafale gets a combined power output of 200PS and claims a driving range of 1,100 km on a full tank.

The carmaker also announced that it will also bring a more powerful 300PS version of the Rafale later which will get an electric motor on the rear axle to make it a four-wheel drive SUV. This version will also come with a plug-in hybrid powertrain for increased economy and might also offer an EV-only range.

Sporty Seats With An Illuminated Logo

Inside the upmarket cabin of the top-spec Alpine variant of the Renault Rafale, you’ll see sporty gray and blue seats finished with both leather and fabric. These seats are made from 61 percent recycled Alcantara. But the highlight of these seats is an illuminated logo for the old Renault performance brand, Alpine, placed below the headrests. These logos light up and can change colour based on the car settings, something that we’ve seen in a car for the first time.

Moving Front Grille

Renault Rafale Moving Front Grille

Another cool feature this car has is its moving radiator grille which is made of small diamond-shaped elements, resembling the carmaker’s logo. Unlike the active grille seen in some luxury brands, there are no mechanical parts in the grille that will help it move. Instead, these small diamonds are placed in such a way that it creates an optical illusion and appears to move depending on the angle you are looking at it from.

A Glass Roof With Different Shades

Renault Rafale Glassroof

The Rafale gets a big panoramic glass roof which from the outside looks no different than a glass roof in any mass market car. But it offers a feature which takes the use of a glass roof to the next level. This smart glass roof has nine sequential darkening elements that can be controlled via google assistant. It comes with four modes: all light, all dark, dark in front with light in rear and light in front with dark in the rear.

Multi-purpose Rear Armrest

Renault Rafale Rear Armrest

Apart from performance, Renault has also focused on comfort and convenience for its passengers with the Rafale. One such example of this is the rear seat armrest which offers a lot of functionality. Other than having the basics of an armrest like two cupholders and space to rest your arms, it also gets two USB ports to charge your devices, space for tables and smartphones and two screen stands that fold out for you to rest your media devices at your preferred angle.

Also Read: Renault Touches The 10 Lakh Production Milestone In 16 Years

This degree of functionality is something usually found only in luxury vehicles. While the Rafale does not offer these comforts wrapped in exquisite materials or with fancy screens, the fold-out design of the rear armrest to expand its use is certainly distinctive.

Renault Rafale

The Renault Rafale will launch in the international market in 2024 and as of now, it is unlikely that this product will hit the shores of India. Let us know which of these features you found interesting and if you would want to see this car on Indian roads.

Featured

Honda Introduces Nationwide Monsoon Checkup Service Camp Until June 30


Customers can take advantage of discounts on certain parts and services during the camp

  • The monsoon service camp began on June 19.

  • Honda professionals will conduct a complimentary 32-point car inspection during the camp.

  • Honda is also offering a free top wash during this time.

  • There are discounts on select parts such as wiper blades, tires, and rubber, as well as services like headlamp cleaning.

  • Customers will have the opportunity to test-drive the Honda City and experience the advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) features.

Honda is conducting a nationwide monsoon checkup service campaign at its authorized dealerships across the country. The service camp started on June 19 and will continue until the end of June.

Second-gen Honda Amaze

During this period, the carmaker is offering discounts on select parts such as wiper blades, rubber, tires, batteries, and door rubber seals. Customers can also save on services like headlamp cleaning, front windshield cleaning, and underbody anti-rust coating. Honda professionals will also conduct a free 32-point car inspection. A top wash is also provided as a complimentary service during this period.

Owners can also have their car evaluated for exchange at the best possible price. Additionally, Honda is offering customers the opportunity to experience the advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) features during a test drive of the Honda City.

Honda currently sells two models in India: the City and Amaze. The carmaker will soon enter the compact SUV segment with the Elevate. For more information, you can read here.

Here is the full press release from the carmaker:

Honda Cars India Organizes Nationwide Monsoon Check-Up Camp

New Delhi, June 19, 2023: Honda Cars India Ltd. (HCIL), a leading manufacturer of premium cars in India, announced the start of its monsoon service camp at its authorized dealership facilities across the country from June 19-30, 2023.

As part of the company’s customer-centric initiatives, the camp will provide owners with a free 32-point car inspection and top wash, as well as attractive offers on select parts such as wiper blades, rubber, tires, batteries, door rubber seals, and services like headlamp cleaning, front windshield cleaning, and underbody anti-rust coating. In addition, customers can have their car evaluated for the best exchange price. Mr. Kunal Behl, Vice President of Marketing & Sales at Honda Cars India Ltd., said, “As a company committed to offering an enhanced experience to our customers, our extensive dealer network is prepared to organize this monsoon check-up camp. Supported by trained professionals, the initiative will take care of all necessary checks and ensure a safe and hassle-free driving experience throughout the monsoon season. We urge our customers to visit their nearest dealerships to take advantage of these benefits.” During the service camp, customers can also experience the innovative ADAS technology of Honda Sensing through a test drive of the Honda City.

Read More on: City on road price

Featured

Elon Musk Confirms Tesla India Debut After Meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi


The Model 3 and Model Y could be Tesla’s debut cars in India

Elon Musk Narendra Modi

BIG NEWS! Tesla India launch has just been confirmed by the brand’s boss, Elon Musk. The Twitter CEO met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the latter’s visit to the US, where they talked about several issues ranging from energy to spirituality.

In a public interview, Elon Musk said, “It was a fantastic meeting with the Prime Minister and I like him quite a lot. He visited our factory a few years ago. So, we have known each other for a while.”

“I am incredibly excited about the future of India. I think India has more promise than any large country in the world,” he added.

Also Read: The Bigger, The Better? These 10 Cars Have The Biggest Displays In The World

When is Tesla coming, then?

Tesla Model Y

Musk also said that Tesla will be in India as soon as humanly possible. The Prime Minister has invited the Tesla founder to explore significant investment opportunities in India. This further strengthens the reports that Tesla is planning to set up a factory in India and sell locally produced EVs. This will ensure lower prices of the still premium EVs.

Tesla talks so far

Tesla Model 3

The Tesla-India talks have seen several ups and downs over the years. The electric carmaker even registered its office in Bengaluru and we spotted several test mules of the Model 3 too. However, high import taxes were the main hurdle which made Tesla sceptical about its India move. The American carmaker’s request for lower tariffs on pure EVs was shot down and the company was uncertain about making manufacturing investments without being able to test the market with its products first.

Also Read: India’s Lithium Reserves Have Just Gotten Bigger

The carmaker currently has the Model 3, Model Y, Model X, and Model S on sale globally. India might get the Model 3 sedan and Model Y crossover at first. The Cybertruck will be globally launched sometime in 2024, while the carmaker is also readying up a new entry-level EV.

NewsNew

THE WEEKLY FEED: ENDURO GP HIGHLIGHTS-ON THE EDGE ! • VIDEO SPECIAL • CHUCK SUN BITD

BLAST FROM THE PAST: CHUCK SUN

Prior to Chuck Sun’s epic Motocross des Nations heroics in 1981 while racing for Factory Honda, he was a Husqvarna star out of Oregon. This shot is from the 1976 Saddleback Trans Am and  Chuck’s Husqvarna machine is Fox Air Shock equipped, which the Husky team ran on all of their machines. In 1978 he won the 250 class at the Trans-AMA and then got signed by Honda and went on to win the 1980 500cc National Championship, along with a GP win at Carlsbad in 1981.

NEWS

 

SOCIAL DISTORTION

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VIDEO JUKEBOX

 

THESE ENDURO GP GUYS ARE FLAT ON IT!

 

AND FROM OUR SIDE OF THE POND: ANGUS, BARNES AND GIRROIR HAULING THE MAIL

GLEN HELEN USGP 2016- EPIC TOMAC CAIROLI BATTLE 

 

SHOT OF THE WEEK

Bummer.

 

GEAR BAG

Billet Kickstand for ’23 YAMAHA YZ450F

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PMB-01-5010 / $174.95 Retail

Fits: ’23 Yamaha YZ450F

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WOLF: BACK IN THE DAY

This is Sunrise Cycle Park in Adelanto in 1981. It was my first big test with Yamaha and Ed Scheidler, who I worked with for years until he retired. Ed was the first person I worked with who shot video of the testing, and then we’d review it in his box van. He was a stickler, always asking us what the bike was doing. He’d make suspension changes, and then would again cross examine our explanation. Half the time he wouldn’t change anything and if you claimed you felt a difference he’d crucify you…all in a good way. He taught us how to test, evaluate and think about what the motorcycle was doing. This is the 1981 Yamaha YZ465.

The post THE WEEKLY FEED: ENDURO GP HIGHLIGHTS-ON THE EDGE ! • VIDEO SPECIAL • CHUCK SUN BITD appeared first on Dirt Bike Magazine.

News

Italian Brand Eleveit Introduces the X-Privilege WP Enduro Boots

When riding off-road, dropping your bike is a normal occurrence, especially in muddy or sandy conditions. To protect ourselves, we invest in high-end gear, including boots and knee braces. Italian motorcycle footwear specialist Eleveit has released a new product called the X-Privilege WP Enduro boots, designed for use on both adventure bikes and enduro machines.

Italian Brand Eleveit Presents The X-Privilege WP Enduro Boots

Made of lightweight and flexible microfiber, the X-Privilege WP Enduro boots offer maximum protection while ensuring comfort for road use. These boots feature an E-Dry waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry during rainy adventures.

The boots come equipped with ankle protection that allows for controlled flexion, ensuring an adequate range of motion. They also have a sturdy shin protector, protecting this vulnerable area from branches, tree stumps, and foot pegs. Additionally, the top of the boot is reinforced to withstand gear shifting. The X-Privilege WP Enduro boots are CE certified according to the EN 13634 standard.

The X-Privilege WP Enduro boots offer comfort and a great fit. They have a non-slip panel on the inside and comfort gussets on the front and rear, providing extra mobility for braking and shifting gears. The boots are secured with four micrometric levers for precise adjustment. The glued, non-slip rubber sole ensures a waterproof finish.

Eleveit offers the X-Privilege WP boots in a brown color, suitable for all types of adventure bikes, including neo-retro scrambler models. The boots are available in sizes ranging from 39 to 48 and are priced at 299.90 Euros (approximately $327 USD).

NewsNew

2024 BETA XTRAINER ANNOUNCED

Beta has revealed some details about its 2024 model line, and one of the highlights is the 2024 Xtrainer. This off-road motorcycle is equipped with a 300cc two-stroke engine and comes at an attractive price. Last year, the Xtrainer underwent a complete redesign, and for the 2024 model, Beta has made further improvements in terms of form and function. The aim is to make the Xtrainer even more versatile and usable in various off-road riding conditions.

The Xtrainer stands out with its unique package of technical specifications, equipment, performance, ergonomics, and design. It now features a security/safety system, along with new graphics, for the 2024 model year. The engine’s power delivery is one of the standout features of the Xtrainer, as it is designed to meet the needs of riders who want a motorcycle that is easy to handle and practical in different situations. Inspired by trials riding, the Xtrainer offers adaptability and ease of use, making it suitable for beginners, seasoned enduro riders, and even experts who want an extreme enduro companion. With the Xtrainer, riders can focus on enjoying the off-road experience without any hassle.

Some notable features of the 2024 Xtrainer include:

  • Limited weight, tipping the scales at only 218 lbs.
  • A unique frame design that is approximately 15% smaller than the standard RR models, providing a smaller and more nimble feel.
  • A reduced seat height by 20mm compared to the RR model range, making it easier for riders to touch the ground in tricky conditions.
  • Nissin hydraulic disc brakes measuring 260mm at the front and 240mm at the rear.
  • A lightweight and high-performance lithium battery.
  • Single-track-inspired R16V suspension with 43mm forks at the front and a rear shock with linkage. The suspension offers adjustable spring preload and rebound damping.
  • An electric start for quick and convenient starting. There is also an option for a backup kick starter.
  • The Beta progressive exhaust valve that can be adjusted externally to optimize the engine’s performance based on riding conditions.
  • A two-position MAP switch that works independently from the power valve adjuster, allowing riders to have more control over engine tuning.
  • A transparent fuel tank with a capacity of 2.3 gallons.
  • An oil injection system that eliminates the need for premixing. The oil tank is located below the seat, and the seat can be easily removed for maintenance.
  • Off-road-friendly soft tires that enhance the Xtrainer’s handling and provide more grip over rocks and roots.
  • A cooling fan that is standard on all Xtrainers, automatically maintaining the engine at the perfect temperature.
  • A 300 cc engine derived from the RR models but tuned differently for the Xtrainer. The engine delivers softer overall power, and combined with the torquey exhaust pipe, offers a power delivery that feels almost electric. The special diaphragm clutch has three positions of adjustment to suit the rider’s preferences.
  • An electronic key/safety system that provides a secure lock-out key exclusively for the motorcycle. The system also includes a steering lock and a wristband tether that, when disconnected, will kill the engine for added safety.

As for pricing, the 2024 Xtrainer will be available at a price of $8,399.00, plus a $489.00 destination fee. Keep in mind that professional dealer setup, taxes, license, and other required fees are not included in the price.

The Xtrainer is expected to be available in September 2024.

News

Take A Look Inside Peugeot’s Cutting-Edge Production Facility In France

For motorcycle enthusiasts, understanding the technical aspects of motorcycles is just as important as enjoying the freedom and mobility they offer. That’s why videos showcasing the building, customization, and restoration of motorcycles are so appealing. Peugeot Motocycles, a historic French brand that has been experiencing a resurgence in recent years, has uploaded a video on its official YouTube channel, providing a glimpse into its cutting-edge production facility in Mandeure, France. This video showcases the assembly of two popular models, the Metropolis three-wheeler and the Pulsion maxi-scooter. In addition to the fascinating technology, the video captures the emotion and craftsmanship that goes into each motorcycle.

Take A Look Inside Peugeot's Cutting-Edge Production Facility In France

The video begins by showing the entrance of the facility and then transitions to a designer hand-sketching the design of a scooter. The scooter then comes to life through Computer-Aided Design (CAD). The video then showcases the process of engine assembly and provides a glimpse of the production line for the Metropolis and Pulsion. Peugeot’s facility utilizes a combination of skilled craftspeople and robotics to build the engines and other intricate components of the motorcycles.

Next, the video takes us to the company’s paint booth, where the panels and components of the scooters are manually painted by craftsmen, which is a unique approach compared to other manufacturers that rely heavily on robots for this process. The painted parts are then left to cure before being transported to the assembly line. At the assembly line, engine builders work alongside technicians assembling the wheels and tires, getting everything ready for final assembly.

Take A Look Inside Peugeot's Cutting-Edge Production Facility In France

The video concludes with a stop-motion-style montage of the scooters being put together, followed by a thorough quality inspection of each new motorcycle. Finally, the video proudly displays the hashtags #MadeInFrance and #MadeInMandeure, highlighting the brand’s commitment to manufacturing and assembling its products in its home country.

News

Can this Minibike Really Reach a Speed of 100 Miles Per Hour?

If you’re someone who loves to tackle hands-on projects, then you’re probably familiar with what I call “project brain.” It’s when you become so focused on achieving a specific goal that you throw caution to the wind. Did you end up spending more money than you planned on? Maybe. But you’re determined to get the job done. That’s what matters.

In a new video series from the YouTube channel Donut, motorcycle enthusiast Jeremiah Burton has taken on a new project: transforming a Coleman Powersports minibike from Wal-Mart into a 100mph speed demon. Can he do it? Even if he doesn’t, at least they’ll have an entertaining video series to show for it.

Before reaching his goal, Jeremiah needs to understand what he’s working with. After spending some time on the dyno, he discovers that the stock bike only produces 3.47 horsepower. To hit 100mph, he estimates that he’ll need to increase the power output to around 28 horsepower. It won’t be easy, but Jeremiah is determined to prove the naysayers wrong.

With a mountain of upgraded parts, Jeremiah sets to work on the bike’s engine. He replaces the connecting rod, flywheel, side cover, cylinder head, and carburetor, among other things. The only original component he keeps is the engine case itself.

When you combine the motivation to prove doubters wrong with project brain, it’s easy to stay focused on the goal. The video series has two more parts remaining, and glimpses of the future suggest that the bike becomes significantly faster and more powerful. Will it ultimately reach 100mph? Only time will tell.

News

BMW Celebrates 1 Millionth GS Made, Announces R 1300 GS Reveal Date

On June 21, 2023, BMW Motorrad celebrated a major milestone in its history by producing its one millionth boxer-engine-equipped GS motorcycle. The bike, a Triple Black R 1250 GS, was unveiled during a works meeting at the Berlin-Spandau plant, where it was manufactured. This achievement marks a significant moment for BMW Motorrad and demonstrates the brand’s commitment to innovation and excellence.

In addition to this milestone, 2023 is a special year for BMW Motorrad, as it celebrates its 100th anniversary and prepares for the BMW Motorrad Days festival in Berlin. The company is constantly working on upgrades and new creations, striving to move forward and meet the demands of riders worldwide.

As the one millionth GS model rolled off the assembly line, BMW also announced the official reveal date for the all-new R 1300 GS. Motorcycle enthusiasts can mark their calendars for September 28, 2023, when the R 1300 GS will make its worldwide debut during the opening ceremony of BMW Motorrad Welt Berlin.


BMW Motorrad - 1 Millionth GS

3 Photos

Although BMW has been manufacturing motorcycles for a century, the introduction of the GS model with a boxer engine in 1980 shaped the future of BMW Motorrad. Today, the GS series remains one of the brand’s most iconic and popular motorcycles among riders worldwide.

While the unveiling of the R 1300 GS is an in-person event, BMW will livestream the reveal via various social media channels for global audiences to experience. Additionally, those interested in visiting BMW Motorrad Welt can do so starting September 30, 2023, as the facility will open to the public. It is located next to the BMW Motorrad plant site in Berlin-Spandau and offers an immersive experience for motorcycle enthusiasts.