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Motorsport

2024 Fiat 600: A Charming Little Crossover With Jeep DNA

The Fiat Seicento is making a comeback after a 13-year break, and it’s coming back as the new 600. Apart from the name, the new 600 is quite different from its predecessor. Instead of being a three-door hatchback, it now comes in a more practical five-door crossover body style. It shares its mechanical underpinnings with the Jeep Avenger and is built on the e-CMP2 platform developed by Stellantis. This platform will also be used for an upcoming Alfa Romeo model in 2024.

The new Fiat 600 is 4.17 meters (164.1 inches) long and can be equipped with wheels as large as 18 inches. Its design draws heavily from the Fiat 500 city car, but on a larger scale. The “600” badge takes its place front and center, and you’ll notice that the Fiat logo is absent from the front of the car, only appearing on the tailgate. Overall, the styling is immediately recognizable, following a similar approach to MINI when they developed the Countryman based on the Cooper hatchback.


News

15 Things That Set the Can-Am Spyder Apart from Traditional Motorcycles

Back in 1972, Can-Am was established as a subsidiary of the Bombardier Corporation. They initially focused on manufacturing off-road motorcycles until 1987 when they shifted their attention to snowmobiles, ATVs, and other products. However, in 2007, Can-Am entered the on-road market with a unique three-wheeled motorcycle known as the Can-Am Spyder. Here are 15 things that make the Can-Am Spyder different from traditional motorcycles:

1. Can-Am Motorcycles Come with Three Wheels

The most distinct feature of the Can-Am Spyder is its three-wheel configuration. Unlike traditional motorcycles that have two wheels, the Spyder has two front wheels and one rear drive wheel. This design ensures added stability and confidence, especially for new riders.

2. There Is the Can-Am Spyder

The Can-Am Spyder is a lineup of high-level three-wheeled street motorcycles offered by the company. These models feature larger engines and are capable of reaching top speeds of over 100 MPH. The Spyder lineup includes different trim levels, with the Can-Am Spyder F3 being the entry-level model and the Can-Am Spyder RT Sky-to-Sea being the top-of-the-line option.

3. There’s Also the Can-Am Ryker

The Can-Am Ryker is another three-wheeled motorcycle offered by Can-Am. It is marketed as a more entry-level model, but still offers plenty of fun and excitement. The Ryker comes in different engine sizes and models, including the Ryker Sport and the Ryker Rally.

4. Can-Am Bikes Make Up to 115 Horsepower

Can-Am motorcycles are equipped with powerful engines that can produce up to 115 horsepower. The F3 and RT models feature an inline three-cylinder 1330cc engine, while the Ryker models have inline twin 600cc and inline triple 900cc engines. These engines provide smooth and constant acceleration, making for an exhilarating riding experience.

5. The Can-Am Ryker Features a Unique Setup

The Can-Am Ryker is designed with a distinctive front-end setup. It features a large radiator positioned between the front wheels, ensuring efficient cooling without the need for additional plastics or designs. The Ryker also offers customizable side panels in various colors.

6. The Can-Am Lineup Comes with a CVT

All Can-Am motorcycles are equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). This automatic transmission transfers power from the engine to the driveshaft smoothly and efficiently. Shifting gears is as simple as moving a lever, making for a hassle-free riding experience.

7. The Can-Am Ryker Rally Is Technically a Dual Sport

The Can-Am Ryker Rally is a variant of the Ryker designed for both off-road and on-road riding. It comes with stronger rims, on-off-road tires, mud flaps, and additional features like a push bar, skid plate, and pre-filtered intake. The Ryker Rally also offers different ride modes and improved suspension for better handling on dirt roads.

8. Countersteering Is Not a Thing with the Can-Am Motorcycle

Unlike traditional motorcycles, countersteering is not necessary when riding a Can-Am motorcycle. Countersteering is the act of pushing the handlebars in the opposite direction to initiate a turn. However, the Can-Am’s three-wheel design eliminates the need for this technique, as the two front wheels handle the steering.

9. The Can-Am Roadster Does Not Accelerate Like a Motorcycle

The Can-Am Roadster, such as the Spyder F3 model, has a different acceleration profile compared to traditional motorcycles. Its three-wheel configuration and added weight result in slower acceleration times. While traditional motorcycles can achieve quick bursts of speed, the Can-Am Roadster takes a bit longer to reach high speeds.

10. Limited In-Gear Acceleration

In-gear acceleration, such as passing another vehicle at high speed, is not as quick on a Can-Am motorcycle compared to traditional motorcycles. The added weight and design of the Roadster affect its ability to accelerate rapidly while at higher speeds. Riders need to plan their maneuvers accordingly when riding a Can-Am Roadster.

11. The Can-Am Motorcycle Is a Bike with a 400 Pound Towing Capacity

The Can-Am Roadster has a towing capacity of 400 pounds. It is designed to handle the weight of specially designed trailers that can be attached to the motorcycle. This feature makes the Can-Am Roadster a suitable option for long-distance touring or carrying additional gear.

12. The Can-Am Spyder Can Touch Speeds of Up to 125 MPH

Despite its unique design, the Can-Am Spyder is capable of reaching high speeds. The Spyder F3 model, for example, can touch speeds of up to 125 miles per hour. This allows riders to enjoy the thrill of speed on the open road.

13. If You’re a Solo Rider, the Can-Am F3 Is for You

The Can-Am Spyder F3 is specifically designed for solo riders. It offers a sporty and dynamic riding experience. The F3 comes in different variations, allowing riders to choose their preferred color, audio package, and additional features like a rear seat and hard cases.

14. The Can-Am Spyder RT Takes Things to the Next Level

The Can-Am Spyder RT is the luxury model in the lineup. It offers enhanced features like rear side cases, a front trunk for storage, hand and seat warmers for both the rider and passenger, and a six-speaker audio system. The RT models provide a high-end riding experience with added comfort and convenience.

15. The Can-Am Spyder Is Classified as a Motorcycle

Despite its unique design, the Can-Am Spyder is classified as a motorcycle. Operators of the Spyder are required to have a motorcycle license in most states. The Spyder operates more like a motorcycle than a car, with features like a twist throttle, left-mounted rear brake pedal, and a distinct riding experience.

News

Held’s New Leg Bag Holds A Liter’s Worth Of Stuff

Held’s New Leg Bag Holds A Liter’s Worth Of Stuff

Held, a company with a long history in the motorcycling gear industry, has recently released a new leg bag that offers convenient storage for riders. Since its establishment in 1946, Held has focused on producing high-quality motorcycle gear. The brand gained further recognition with the assistance of 11-time European Motocross Champion, Erwin Schmider, who helped develop the first dedicated MX glove. Today, Held offers a wide range of motorcycle gear, including casual jackets, pants, boots, suits, leathers, and more for racers and tourers.

In addition to their moto gear, Held also offers a selection of lifestyle products that can be worn off the bike. The new leg bag is one such item.

Sleek Design and Features

The leg bag has a one-liter capacity and comes with several useful features. It has reflective prints to enhance visibility and safety, a waterproof inner pocket with a roll click closing mechanism, an organizer, mesh inner pockets, and pass-throughs for navigation system cables, earphones, or power bank cables.

The bag’s main body is made of water-repellent nylon fabric, and the waterproof inner shell adds an extra layer of protection against rain showers. However, the bag does not come with an official water-repellency rating.

The bag is designed to attach to the rider’s hip and leg, allowing it to stay secure and out of the way during rides. Despite its compact size, the bag provides ample storage space for essential items such as wallets, phones, power banks, and even helmet wipes.

Pricing and Availability

The suggested retail price for Held’s new leg bag is 39.95 EUR or approximately $43 USD. Riders can purchase this bag to enhance their riding experience and conveniently carry their belongings.

News

This Custom Indian Sport Chief By Krazy Horse Is All The Rage

Indian Motorcycles is known for its prestigious lineup of motorcycles. Both in the past and present, this American brand has produced some of the most recognizable bikes on the road. Aside from their unique charm and impressive performance, Indian motorcycles also serve as excellent platforms for custom builds. Enter the “Rage,” a custom Indian Sport Chief created by Krazy Horse in collaboration with Richard Jones, the bassist, keyboardist, and vocalist of the British rock band Stereophonics. Krazy Horse specializes in custom builds focusing on Indian’s cruiser range, and the Rage is their latest addition. Their builds strike a balance between style and functionality, and the Rage is no exception. The bike was designed with the unique road conditions in the U.K. in mind, resulting in a distinct “British look and feel.”

The collaboration between Indian Motorcycles and Krazy Horse has resulted in a visually appealing build that pays attention to the finer details. The cockpit has been customized with tasteful parts from Wunderkind, a custom bike parts manufacturer. These parts include new grips, clutch and brake levers, master cylinder covers, foot pegs, and a gear shifter. They work together to give the bike a bespoke and factory-fresh appearance. Additionally, the Rage features several one-off custom parts. Richard Jones himself helped design the sand-cast aluminum derby cover, and a custom belly pan with integrated cooling fins was added to help regulate the temperature of the bike’s powerful 1,890cc engine.

The aesthetic elements of the build are equally as impressive. Krazy Horse designed custom sand-cast aluminum side covers to give the bike a unique look. The turn signals were relocated to the front cowl and rear fender to create a more streamlined aesthetic. The build is completed with a stunning custom paint job from Pageant Paintwork, featuring a black and blue design with silver pin striping. The saddle was also hand-painted with a custom tattoo design by Rich Jones.

To enhance its road presence, the Rage is equipped with a custom two-into-one performance exhaust system from OJZ Engineering and a Billet Performance air filter.

Motorsport

NFL Player Leonard Fournette’s Dodge Durango Hellcat Goes Up In Flames

NFL running back Leonard Fournette had a frightening experience when his car caught fire. Fournette was driving his Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat on I-275 in Tampa when the fire started. He was able to pull over and exit the vehicle safely, but the Durango was severely damaged.

The Florida Highway Patrol determined that the fire was caused by a mechanical issue with the Dodge Durango and was not the result of a crash or accident. Fournette shared a video of the incident on his Instagram account, expressing gratitude that he escaped unharmed, captioning it, “Man it was one of those days today, but I would like thank God, my car caught on fire while I was driving, But I’am still blessed.”

Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat

The Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat is the most powerful stock gasoline-powered SUV in the world. It can go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 3.5 seconds and has a top speed of 180 mph. Production of the Durango SRT Hellcat was limited to 3,000 units in 2021, but it resumed this year.

Recall Notices

Stellantis, the parent company of Dodge, recently issued recalls for fire risks on some of its other vehicles, such as the Ram diesel and the Jeep Cherokee. However, the Dodge Durango, including the Durango SRT Hellcat, has never been subjected to a recall for a fire risk.

Leonard Fournette

Leonard Fournette was released by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in March of this year. During his time with the Buccaneers, he played in three seasons and started 25 of 43 regular season games. He scored 17 rushing touchdowns and played a significant role in the team’s victory in Super Bowl LV, rushing for 89 yards and a touchdown.

Other Cars Owned by Fournette

In addition to his Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat, Leonard Fournette also owns a Polestar 1, which he shared on his Instagram account with the caption “@polestar cars are made for stars.”

Motorsport

Renault Scenic E-Tech EV Spotted Testing for the First Time

The popular Renault Scenic is set to make a comeback in Europe, this time as an electric vehicle (EV) with the upcoming E-Tech model. Recently, spy shots of the car’s development have emerged, offering a first glimpse of its design.

In an effort to conceal the exterior features, Renault’s engineering team has covered the car with a camouflage wrap and used blocky panels to distort its appearance. Despite this, we can see that the Scenic E-Tech sports a sleek front end with a trapezoidal inlet positioned in the lower section. The headlights are thin and neatly frame the hood.


News

From the archive: on this day in 1937

The LEVC TX of modern London has a heritage stretching back to 1930, spanning over six generations of taxi.

In 1925, a new Tory government imposed tariffs on commercial vehicles to cover war costs. This made the expensive French Unic taxis unaffordable, leading Mann & Overton, a dealer, to ask Austin to create a new model.

Austin decided to reuse the chassis of their old “heavy” Twelve car. They kept the 27bhp four-cylinder engine but made adjustments to the gearbox and steering for a tighter turning radius.

Coachbuilders provided the bodies, usually landaulet style, which had extra height compared to other taxis. This earned them the nickname “high lot” and made them popular among top-hat wearers.

According to the 1906 Conditions of Fitness, one side of the taxi was open, which was unpleasant on wet and windy days. It had a squeezer horn and an external carburettor killer for security. The upright driving position offered excellent visibility, and combined with great maneuverability, it allowed the driver to confidently navigate seemingly impossible spaces.

The performance of the taxi was sufficient for city traffic, although attempting higher speeds, such as at Brooklands, proved to be “amusing.” The taxi’s weight of around 1420kg gave it a stable feel while driving, but the constant vibration from the metalwork countered the comfort of the leather-lined seating area.

It’s remarkable how little has changed in the past 86 years, yet also how much has.

Lancia’s Aprilia masterpiece

Lancia’s Augusta gained popularity in the UK in 1933, so there was anticipation for its successor, the Aprilia. This pillarless saloon achieved a new aerodynamic record with a coefficient of drag of 0.47Cd. Despite its humble 45bhp from the 1.4-litre V4 engine, it had a remarkably low weight of 890kg due to its unitary body construction (a concept developed by Lancia in 1922), resulting in brisk performance. The engine was so smooth and refined that it felt like a six-cylinder.

The Aprilia boasted fully independent suspension, a rarity at the time, providing exceptional riding comfort and a reassuringly safe handling experience. It was the final car designed by Vincenzo Lancia – truly a remarkable vehicle.

UK government fails to deliver on road-building promise

In 1935, with the effects of the 1931 European banking crisis fading and the number of cars in Britain reaching 2.5 million, the government decided to embark on a significant road-building plan. The Ministry of Transport announced a £100 million fund for this purpose.

However, by 1937, when an additional 500 vehicles were joining the traffic every day, there was very little noticeable progress. It was revealed that only £6.45 million had been spent in the first two years. We observed that the majority of funds were being allocated to national armament, which, in hindsight, turned out to be a good thing…

Motorsport

BFP Ford F-150 Delivers Retro 1980s Styling For an Additional $12,995

The Ohio-based Beechmont Ford Performance (BFP) dealer is bringing back the retro-inspired Ford F-150 for the 2023 model year. This time, the truck offers two power options and a lot of 1980s nostalgia with its two-tone paint job and abundance of chrome, setting it apart from modern vehicles.

We first got a taste of the retrolicious pickup in 2019 when we had the opportunity to drive BFP’s creation. Then, in 2021, the Ford dealer applied its rad styling pack to the brand-new 14th generation of the F-150.

Now, BFP is introducing a new version of the nostalgia-filled pack for the 2023 Ford pickup, which is available with the renowned 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine. This time, the pack offers two power levels: the base variant delivers 400 horsepower, while the second option boosts the output to 700 hp with the help of a Ford Performance supercharged Coyote V8 motor.


Featured

Mercedes-AMG SL 55 Makes A Comeback In India


The iconic SL nameplate is back for some top-down motoring in style, that too in a performance-spec AMG avatar

The Mercedes-AMG SL 55 Roadster has been launched in India at a price of Rs 2.35 crore (ex-showroom, pan India). The SL nameplate was last available in India in 2012, and now the sixth-generation model is making a comeback. The company has also started taking orders for the two-door SL cabriolet in India after a gap of almost 11 years.

Mercedes’ Only Two-Door Cabriolet

The AMG SL 55 Roadster is only the second convertible from Affalterbach to be available in India, following the E-Class cabriolet. The latest SL 55 features smooth and curvaceous lines, in line with Mercedes’ current design language. It has a distinctive slatted AMG-exclusive grille with sharp LED taillights, giving it a focused and performance-oriented appearance.

The roadster is equipped with 21-inch AMG-spec alloy wheels and high-performance tires. It comes with a soft-top that can be electronically stored away in just 15 seconds at speeds of up to 60kmph. The front of the car has an elongated profile, while the rear is stubby, contributing to its aggressive look with sleek tail lamp design and quad exhausts.

A Luxurious Cabin

Similar to other Mercedes-AMG models, the SL 55 combines luxury with a sporty touch. It features a chunky three-spoke AMG steering wheel with heating function, sporty aluminum pedals, turbine-inspired AC vents, carbon fiber inserts on the center console, and optional Nappa leather seat upholstery. The SL sports a 2+2 seating configuration, which is typical of luxury sports coupes.

Packed with Features

The SL 55 Roadster is equipped with a range of features including a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display, powered front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, dual-zone climate control, and 64-color ambient lighting. The centerpiece is a portrait-styled 11.9-inch touchscreen MBUX-powered infotainment system with a 1220W 17-speaker Burmester sound system and wireless charging. Safety features include blind spot assist, surround view system, parking assist, eight airbags, ESP, and optional radar-based ADAS. The car also offers a usable boot with 240 liters of storage, enough for a couple of travel bags or even a golf bag.

A Handcrafted V8 Under The Hood!

The Mercedes-AMG SL 55 is powered by the brand’s signature hand-built 4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine. With an output of 476PS and 700Nm of torque, the engine propels the car from 0 to 100kmph in just 3.9 seconds. The transmission duties are handled by a 9-speed MCT automatic unit.

The car comes with Mercedes’ 4MATIC+ (AWD) drivetrain with rear-wheel steering and rear limited-slip differential as standard, ensuring excellent grip and stability during high-speed cornering. It also features an active suspension system with dynamic abilities, offering a choice of driving experiences from comfort to dynamic. Additionally, it can raise the car’s clearance by 30mm to tackle uneven terrains.

Rivalry

With its price, the AMG SL 55 directly competes with the lower variants of the Porsche 911 Cabriolet, which are similarly priced. Although open-top motoring is still not widely practiced in India, cars like the SL are likely to encourage more demand for cabriolets in the country.

Gaming

Best PC Games Released In 2023 So Far

Get ready to immerse yourself in the dark and dangerous world of Diablo once again, as Blizzard unveils the highly anticipated latest chapter in the series – Diablo 4. This release has got players buzzing and eager to delve back into the grind for legendary loot.

The beloved classes from previous games make a triumphant return, including the Sorcerer, Barbarian, Rogue, Necromancer, and Druid, serving as starting characters. Expanding on Diablo 3’s foundation, players now have the freedom to choose their character’s gender, thanks to a new character creation menu. Feel free to customize your heroes to your heart’s content, although the true essence of Diablo lies in the pursuit of powerful gear.

The series introduces a new formidable foe, Lilith, who stands as one of the more captivating enemies in the franchise. Instead of chasing a shadowy figure through the desert, players follow the path of the recently resurrected Lilith as she regains her strength. This captivating tale is brought to life through Blizzard’s stunning CGI cutscenes.

For loyal fans of the series, Diablo 4 promises hours upon hours of boss battles, character leveling, and exploration. It encapsulates everything you’d expect from a Diablo game and more. Unfortunately, the “more” includes the presence of microtransactions. Players have the option to skip a significant portion of the grind by purchasing items with real-world money, though these transactions are strictly cosmetic shortcuts and not necessities. Despite this drawback, Diablo 4 has still managed to become Blizzard’s fastest-selling game of all time according to SlashGear.