Tag Archives: beloved

5 Budget-Friendly Cruiser Motorcycles That Offer A Luxurious Ride

Cruiser motorcycles are beloved for his or her easy but charismatic design. They are the perfect mix of power and personality, appealing to riders of all backgrounds. These days, the market is filled with cruiser choices from practically each main producer, every providing its personal distinctive tackle the basic type. Some cruisers lean in direction of a sportier aesthetic, whereas others tackle a extra laid-back vibe, guaranteeing there is a mannequin to match each rider’s desire and driving type. This range within the cruiser class ensures that riders can discover a motorbike that not solely fits their wants but additionally displays their individuality on the highway.

However, as developments in efficiency, options, and driving know-how proceed to turn into extra subtle, the price of cruiser fashions has been steadily rising. Even choices, like the straightforward Harley-Davidson Street Bob 114, include a near-$17,000 price ticket that may have some riders considering twice. It’s clear that proudly owning a brand-new cruiser generally is a huge monetary funding. Fortunately, with the rising recognition of cruisers, the market has additionally turn into ripe with bikes that supply a satisfying driving expertise with out breaking the financial institution. For those making the transition from sport bikes or venturing into motorcycling for the primary time, reasonably priced cruiser choices intention to turn into the go-to right now.

Exploring these budget-friendly models reveals a big selection of bikes that present a steadiness of high quality and worth, proving that you do not have to make too many sacrifices to remain inside your finances. Whether you are drawn to the basic enchantment of a classic cruiser or the trendy facilities of a recent mannequin, there is a motorbike on the market that meets your standards with out burning a gap in your pockets. So let’s take a better take a look at the reasonably priced cruiser choices out there right now, which can assist you make a extra knowledgeable choice that aligns together with your monetary objectives. In this manner, no matter your cruiser motorbike, it’s going to nonetheless proceed to be an emblem of freedom and self-expression.

In order to provide the most modern and correct data attainable, the info used to compile this text was sourced from varied producer web sites and different authoritative sources, together with CFMoto, Honda, Royal Enfield, Kawasaki, and Indian Motorcycles.

Related

Cheaper Alternatives To A Harley-Davidson Sportster S

These cruisers appear and feel like a Harley-Davidson, however are rather a lot cheaper!

5 CFMoto 450CL-C

Starting MSRP: $5,699

2024 cfmoto 450cl-c
CFMoto

The CFMoto 450CL-C is a ground-breaking addition to the world of low-cost cruisers, providing a sexy mixture of classic design and up to date innovation. With its twin-cylinder engine and old-school look, this motorbike has the spirit of leisurely weekend cruisin’ in its DNA. It boasts a powerful listing of options, together with options like ABS and traction management, a dual-chamber exhaust, a delicate leather-based seat, and modern blacked-out aesthetics.

However, its centerpiece is undoubtedly the three.6-inch spherical TFT show, a nod to the mixing of cutting-edge know-how into the world of motorcycling. This digital dashboard not solely supplies riders with important all needed data but additionally provides OTA updates, anti-theft security measures, observe recording capabilities, and real-time automobile knowledge accessible by way of the CFMOTO RIDE app. For these captivated by its attract and worth level, you would be completely satisfied to know the 450CL-C is hitting North American dealerships within the fall of 2024. Pricing is already out, and the temptation is actual!

Performance Specifications

Engine Type

2-Cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC

Displacement

449cc

Max Power

40 HP

Max Torque

30 lb-ft

Frame Type

Steel tube

Fuel Capacity

3.2 gal

(Specs sourced from cfmoto.com)

Model Highlights

  • Digital show
  • Classic design
  • Affordable
  • Dual-chamber exhaust
  • Anti-lock brakes

4 Honda Rebel 500

Starting MSRP: $6,499

2020 Honda Rebel 500 Press Shot (2)
Honda

Since its introduction in 2016, the Honda Rebel 500 has developed a strong reputation as one of the manufacturer’s most beloved cruisers. Hailed for its simplicity, versatility, and simple perspective, this motorbike has obtained love from each novice and seasoned riders alike. Whether navigating busy metropolis streets, informal suburban neighborhoods, embarking on quick stints alongside the freeway, or tackling difficult again roads, the Rebel 500 effortlessly adapts to each driving setting, providing an exciting expertise at each flip.

An enormous worth level of this bike is its dedication to rider consolation, evidenced by its low seat top. This allows even quick riders to plant their ft firmly on the bottom at pink lights and effortlessly mount and dismount with out overextending their legs. Additionally, the most recent iterations of the Rebel 500 include the required options, together with full-LED lighting, non-compulsory ABS for added security, and a slipper/help clutch mechanism that delivers rapid management with each pull of the lever. A light-weight clutch motion is one other professional. With this strong mixture of favor, efficiency, and superior know-how, the Honda Rebel 500 continues to draw riders of every kind, all whereas staying at a really reasonably priced worth level.

Performance Specifications

Engine Type

Liquid-cooled parallel-twin four-stroke

Displacement

471cc

Max Power

45.6 HP

Max Torque

31.9 lb-ft

Frame Type

Steel diamond

Fuel Capacity

3 gal

(Specs sourced from Honda)

Model Highlights

  • Distinctive and recognizable design
  • User-friendly, particularly for novices
  • Responsive engine
  • Excellent dealing with
  • Customizable

3 Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650

Starting MSRP: $6,999

Super Meteor 650 Celestial Red Hero
Royal Enfield

One motorbike that manages to harness the pure spirit of cruising with affordability is the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650. This motorbike has solidified itself as a part of Royal Enfield’s premiere lineup, and for good purpose. Designed to be the final word cruising machine, the Super Meteor 650 hungers for the open highway, and anybody who has ridden one understands precisely what that looks like.

It places rider consolation on the high of its listing, boasting a generously huge seat positioned at a low top, guaranteeing riders can take pleasure in prolonged rides in a considerably laidback place with out experiencing any fatigue alongside their journey. In addition, the Super Meteor 650’s entrance suspension contains USD forks, which boosts its capacity to soak up and glide throughout any cracks and bumps. Features are aplenty too, reminiscent of dual-channel ABS, turn-by-turn navigation, USB port, and adjustable levers.

Performance Specifications

Engine Type

Parallel twin, 4 stroke, SOHC, Air-Oil Cooled

Displacement

648cc

Max Power

46.39 HP

Max Torque

38.57 lb-ft

Frame Type

Steel tubular backbone

Fuel Capacity

4.15 gal

(Specs sourced from Royal Enfield)

Model Highlights

  • Smooth driving expertise
  • Classic design
  • LED lighting
  • Comfortable ergonomics

Related

2023 Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 Ride Review: A High-Value Retro Cruiser For Everyone

The Super Meteor 650 units a brand new benchmark for Royal Enfield.

2 Kawasaki Vulcan S

Starting MSRP: $7,349

2024 Kawasaki Vulcan S cruising on the road
Kawasaki

The Kawasaki Vulcan S has masterfully evolved from the relaxed nature of its predecessors, mixing the basic DNA of an old-school cruiser with a recent edge. Prioritizing rider consolation, this cruiser provides a powerful array of customization choices, which incorporates 18 completely different configurations for its handlebars, seat, and foot pegs to accommodate a various spectrum of riders. Its recognition amongst bigger riders is supported by its beneficiant bodily dimension and strategically positioned ahead controls.

While it’s nonetheless a laid-back cruiser at its core, this Kawasaki permits riders the chance to unleash extra underlying energy with low-to-mid-range torque due to its liquid-cooled 4-stroke, 2-cylinder engine (additionally current on the Ninja and Z650). If that wasn’t spectacular sufficient, this motorbike comes with a price ticket of lower than $8k, making it an much more irresistible choice for riders in search of an reasonably priced, but very snug cruiser.

Performance Specifications

Engine Type

4-stroke, 2-cylinder, DOHC, liquid-cooled

Displacement

649cc

Max Power

60 HP

Max Torque

46.3 lb-ft

Frame Type

High-tensile metal diamond body

Fuel Capacity

3.7 gal

(Specs sourced from Kawasaki)

Model Highlights

  • Adjustable settings for optimum consolation
  • Versatile efficiency
  • Forward controls
  • Parallel twin engine

1 Indian Scout Sixty

Starting MSRP: $11,749

Blue 2023 Indian Scout Sixty cruising through town
Indian Motorcycle

The Indian Scout Sixty is the physical embodiment of old-school styling with modern amenities. So it attracts riders who adore the nostalgia of all-American bikes whereas having fun with up to date consolation and know-how. Paying tribute to its heritage, the Scout Sixty stays true to its high-quality craftsmanship, whereas having a price ticket that will not break the financial institution. It has been fastidiously crafted to ship a driving expertise that manages to mix heritage with innovation. Whereas, its design, harking back to its predecessors, embodies the type that Indian has been identified for. It’s nonetheless totally engaging for kids, too.

With its low seat and ahead controls, this cruiser retains its occupants snug for a well-balanced trip in each setting. In addition, there is a likable 999cc V-twin powerhouse in there. It guarantees to provide the genuine American cruiser expertise with out being too intimidating or in your face. Just proper for somebody who’s leaping up from a sub-500cc metric cruiser. Things are a little bit scarce feature-wise, although. You get a easy instrument cluster, no digital rider aids, and alloy wheels. By staying true to its iconic design, the Indian Scout Sixty is an reasonably priced mix of consolation and long-term reliability that the model has turn into identified for.

Performance Specifications

Engine Type

Liquid-cooled V-twin (60 levels)

Displacement

999cc (60 cu in)

Max Power

78 HP

Max Torque

65 lb-ft

Frame Type

Cast aluminum

Fuel Capacity

3.3 gal

(Specs sourced from Indian Motorcycle)

Model Highlights

  • Powerful engine
  • Relaxed driving place
  • Heritage-inspired design
  • Customization choices

Toyota Employees Share Why They’re Proud ToyoPets Members

For some pet homeowners, their beloved animals are part of their households. These furry additions to households include some main advantages. In reality, analysis exhibits that pet possession can enhance an individual’s total well-being and be a direct pathway to happiness.

Some studies additionally reveal that the bond between individuals and their pets is linked to a number of well being advantages, together with decreased emotions of loneliness and anxiousness, elevated alternatives for train and outside actions and extra alternatives to socialize, based on the Centers for Disease Control and Protection (CDC).

At Toyota, some workers who’re pet homeowners know these advantages firsthand. That’s why in 2018, ToyoPets, a enterprise partnering group (BPG), was created to provide pet homeowners an area to attach and work on animal advocacy collectively. It was additionally put into place to help the various, inclusive, and passionate pet proprietor neighborhood.

“ToyoPets is committed to driving Toyota forward as a company in the community through our outreach efforts,” says Mary Barry, ​​a pet proprietor and loyalty technique analyst at Toyota Financial Services (TFS). “We work with local organizations through volunteering, donations and learning opportunities for employees.”

Unconditional Love 
For some ToyoPets members, being a pet proprietor is an ongoing lesson in unconditional love. According to Dallas Campos, a senior analyst for Travel Services at Toyota Motor North America (TMNA), who has 4 canines, three cats, one bunny, 22 chickens and 4 roosters, they supply the purest type of love.

“Your furry friends look up to you for everything,” Campos says. “Most importantly, your love and affection. However, being a pet parent also comes with its fair share of rewards as the unconditional love and loyalty they offer you and your family.”

In addition to like and companionship, pets will also be a shining beacon throughout difficult instances.

Campos provides, “When I have a hard day, my pet is always there to comfort me. They provide mental relief and help me reduce my stress, which is beneficial for my professional life throughout the day.”

Fostering Connection
Patricia Pruitt, ToyoPets chair and journey analyst at TMNA, enjoys connecting with fellow colleagues and bonding over their mutual love and respect for animals.

“ToyoPets is a great BPG for all animal lovers,” she says. “It is also a great networking platform. I have met so many wonderful fellow employees through ToyoPets that I would not have met in my day-to-day. We all share a common interest.”

Members from ToyoPets agree that assembly with different pet lovers is extremely helpful.

“It helps drive engagement and helps me feel connected to Toyota in a new way,” Campos says. “When I feel connected and enjoy who I work with, it helps drive productivity and makes me a happier employee.”

Mary Barry, a loyalty technique analyst with TFS, is a fur mother to 2 Miniature American Shepherds, Birdie and Willie. Barry shares Campos’ sentiments and appreciates the alternatives that the group affords.

“Joining ToyoPets provides you with a like-minded community of fellow pet owners and advocates,” she says. “It can provide you with leadership opportunities, as well as a chance to meet other employees who you may not have had the chance to meet professionally. It can help you get involved in your community and participate in fun events.”

Paws-itive Activities 
From volunteer actions the place workers learn to canines at shelters to trunk-or-treat festivities the place they fill their trunks with sweet, ToyoPets members discover inventive and constructive methods to remain engaged.

“Our volunteer events help employees give back to the community and support nonprofits in the surrounding neighborhoods,” says Amanda Darr, a collision program senior analyst with the Lexus Division. “ToyoPets also explores and develops opportunities to participate in community outreach programs and events with local and national nonprofit organizations.”

For instance, the BPG, which consists of 880 members throughout the corporate, hosts fundraisers and occasions that help nonprofits like Spay & Neuter Network and Patriot Paws.

The group additionally hosts social actions together with pleased hours with dog-friendly environments and holiday-inspired outings.

Jillian Martinez, a gross sales operations analyst at TMNA who has been a ToyoPets member for a little bit over a 12 months, participated within the Halloween festivities final October together with her one-year-old pup, Zinnia, and had a memorable time.

“I think coming out to trunk-or-treat was a great experience,” she says. “My goldendoodle and I did a ‘Spiderman: Into the Multiverse’ costume where she was dressed up as Peter Parker Spiderman and I was Spider-Gwen. All the kids were so excited to see us dressed up and pet my dog.”

Driving the Message Forward 
These sorts of enjoyable and fascinating occasions are a trademark of ToyoPets. They additionally tie into Toyota’s total ethos and overarching philosophies.

“ToyoPets is committed to exemplifying the Toyota Way in all of our efforts by Acting for Others, Continuing the Quest for Improvement, Creating Room to Grow, and more,” Barry says. “BPGs like ToyoPets give employees a place where they feel like they belong. It helps us grow professionally and personally and can bring a lot of joy outside of our day-to-day work.”

This Toyota Stout Pickup Render Is Our Vision Of An Exciting Compact Off-roader

The Toyota Stout, a beloved compact pickup truck discontinued in 1997, continues to carry a particular place within the hearts of fans. Rumors of a revival have swirled for years, and whereas official affirmation stays elusive, the prospect of a contemporary Stout is sufficient to set pulses racing. This rendering by TopSpeed’s digital artist, Yasid Designs, presents a tantalizing glimpse into what a Toyota Stout TRD Off-Road might appear to be. Drawing inspiration from the Toyota Tacoma, Tundra, and the Compact Cruiser EV Concept, the design seamlessly blends heritage with trendy components.

Our Stout TRD Off-Road rendering embodies rugged refinement with its daring, boxy silhouette and hexagonal grille. Full LED lighting provides a contact of modernity, whereas wider fender flares, black entrance and rear bumpers, and commonplace all-terrain tires underscore its off-road prowess. A metal step board offers quick access to the cabin, whereas the non-compulsory black contrasting roof provides a contact of personalization. True to the TRD spirit, this rendering incorporates purposeful components like a tow hook and winch, generally discovered on different TRD-equipped Toyota pickups. These options sign the Stout’s readiness to deal with any terrain, be it navigating rocky trails or hauling gear for weekend adventures.

As everybody awaits additional information and updates from Toyota, our rendering serves as a strong reminder of the enduring attraction of the Stout. It presents a glimpse into what might be an thrilling and modern addition to the Toyota lineup, a contemporary interpretation of a beloved basic that might undoubtedly seize the hearts of a brand new technology of truck fans.

Here’s How The RS6 E-Tron Will Keep Audi’s Wagon Legacy Alive In The EV Era

When the beloved gas-powered Audi RS6 in its unique kind left the market in 2010, a bit of little bit of Audi‘s wagon status left with it. But the love for the All-American station wagon is not fully gone. In 2021, Audi came out with the RS6 Avant in an try to hold on the unique automotive’s legacy. While the Avant scored rave opinions for its wagon design and unparalleled efficiency, its 2024 version has still left some reviewers wanting more.

An all-electric version of the RS6 goals to do exactly that. From effectivity to a singular design construction spearheaded in partnership with Porsche, the RS6 is about to revive an period all whereas doing it sustainably.

Related

Why The Audi RS6 Avant Is The Ultimate Wagon

In the previous, Audi made a reputation for itself with its sports activities wagons. Does the present Audi RS6 Avant reside as much as its heritage?

In order to provide the most recent and correct info attainable, the info used to compile this text was sourced from varied producer web sites and different authoritative sources, together with Car and Driver and TopGear.

The RS6 e-Tron Is An Ode To The Audi RS6

When the RS6 first got here into fruition within the early 2000s, it introduced with it a wild bundle: pace and energy in a seemingly regular station wagon. As generations of the automobile debuted, it started to have a status for high speeds inches in direction of 200 MPH and a horsepower and torque combo that blew straight previous you. After 23 years, the Audi RS6 is set to return in 2025 with an all-electric powertrain and that very same status to keep up.

The RS6’s Singular Place in History

The Audi RS6 made its debut in 2002 with both sedan and Avant models. Powered by a turbo V-8 engine, Audi described it as a “wolf disguised in a visually inconspicuous pelt.” Its 4.2-liter powerhouse allowed for a speedy 4.7-second acceleration charge from 0 to 62.1 MPH. But Audi’s love affair with power didn’t stop there.

In 2008, the RS6 was thought of “the most powerful series production Audi and, as an Avant, also the most powerful series production station wagon in the world to date.” Switching over to a direct injection twin-turbo V-10 engine made all of the distinction.

Suddenly, an unassuming enterprise wagon put 479.4 pound-feet of torque and 174 MPH of pace into the fingers of on a regular basis commuters. The automobile even supplied the common individual a style — or quite hint — of the monitor. While carbon fiber is all the fashion in auto manufacturing now, the German-born producer used carbon fiber ceramic brake disks with particular buyer requests. In 2013, Audi stated goodbye to the unique RS6 sedan and debuted a 3rd era of the RS6 Avant. The wagon strayed from its predecessor’s power-hungry methods and, as a substitute, opted for a high-tech imaginative and prescient.

A Lofty Standard To Live Up To

An exterior 3/4 shot of the 2024 Audi RS6 Avant performance
Audi

As the RS6 returns in a refurbished format — one hundred pc electrical and the unique sedan fashion — it carries with it high expectations for a nostalgic past era of Audi.

While specifics are undisclosed, the automobile goals to grace the stage in 2025 because the automotive and particulars are revealed. In an interview with TopGear, Marc Lichte, head of design, painted a picture of a large wagon with “a wider track and bigger wheels.” Lichte went on to tease a bit in regards to the RS6’s efficiency by saving it might be completely different than the opposite E-tron fashions, particularly the A6 E-tron.

While suspension particulars aren’t launched, it was an space Audi cherished on the daybreak of the RS6.

“Even in the first RS6, a major focus was placed on the suspension,” Audi detailed in a press launch. “The hydraulic pitch and roll compensation, Dynamic Ride Control (DRC, which is still purely RS-specific suspension technology today, was a pioneering innovation here.”

Related

10 Things You Need To Know About The Audi e-Tron S

The 2023 Audi e-tron S redefines electrical luxurious, providing a tri-motor setup for a harmonious mix of effectivity and magnificence.

Keeping A Reputation For Performance Alive

Audi Q8 e-tron Edition Dakar
Audi

As beforehand acknowledged, specifics aren’t fairly accessible but. However, because the one hundred pc electrical RS6 rolls out, so do a handful of different electrical station wagons that threaten to dethrone Audi’s RS6. While the 2024 RS6 Avant is gas-guzzling, it does set a excessive bar of efficiency combined with energy.

Audi’s Electric Excellence

Audi has been fast to make the change to electrification. In truth, the producer has carved out a section of the business specifically for its e-Tron line. Current electrical choices embrace the Audi Q8 e-tron and Sportback e-tron, the Q4 e-tron and Sportback e-tron, and the e-tron GT. The Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron tops the charts by way of vary with 300 miles and charges in about 31 minutes with a DC quick charger. However, the Audi e-tron GT is the sporty electrical automobile within the lineup. The GT reaches 60 MPH in 3.9 seconds.

Audi A6 Avant e-Tron
Audi

But what about placing all of these attributes in a single automotive? The RS6 e-tron goals to verify all of the containers while taking inspiration from the original RS6 and the 2024 RS6 Avant. The 2024 Avant reaches 60 MPH in simply 3.3 seconds, carrying on the unique RS6’s legacy, and including 30 extra ponies and 37 pound-feet of torque to its already highly effective drive system.

However, because the world turns extra to electrification as the way forward for the auto trade, the 2024 RS6’s four-liter twin-turbo V-8 could also be gas-electric, however it’s nonetheless gas-guzzling. In an period of producers which have managed to mix pace, efficiency, energy, effectivity, and sustainable design, Audi’s revival of the RS6 with electrical motors is a key choice in securing the automaker’s eco-friendly future.

2024 Audi RS6 Avant

Layout

Twin-turbo Gas/Electric V-8

Horsepower

621 horsepower

Torque

627 pound-feet

0-60 MPH

3.3-2.9 seconds

Top Speed

174 MPH

Price

$126,895

(Data sourced from Audi)

Who Poses A Threat?

Nio ET5 Touring Green
Nio

2023 gave the impression to be the 12 months of reviving the station wagon in an electrical format. Other station wagons with one hundred pc electrical powertrains are set to enter the market within the coming years. Most notably, the Volkswagen ID.7 Tourer will mark the automaker’s foray into electrical station wagon territory. Chinese automaker Nio additionally introduced in June it might launch an all-electric station wagon, the ET5 Touring.

Related

Every Audi RS Model Ranked By Acceleration

Audi’s RS efficiency vary is continually setting new requirements and this is each Audi RS mannequin accessible right this moment, ranked by acceleration

Audi Partners With Porsche To Boost Audi’s Historic Wagon Driving System

Audi A6 e-Tron Concept
Audi

Audi’s models have been regarded as an alternative option to Porsche already, so the automaker’s use of the identical platform comes as no shock. The distinctive partnership between Porsche, Audi, and the VW Group builds upon all three German producers’ huge reputations for shifting in direction of electrification. The RS6 e-tron, like the A6 e-tron, is about to stem from that very same design platform.

The VW Group’s PPE Platform

The VW Group Premium Platform Electric (PPE) is a collaborative mission that enables for competing producers like Porsche and Audi to share Volkswagen’s electrical expertise. When creating the A6 e-tron idea, Audi credited the PPE platform for enabling “superior performance” by means of design, 800-volt charging capabilities, and high-performance metrics.

“We benefit greatly from the synergies in the Volkswagen Group both in hardware and software: PPE scales high-performance features for the broader market,” Audi stated in a press release. “Shared platform is not an obstacle to realize brand-specific vehicle design and characteristics.”

Audi’s use of the PPE, MEB, and J1 {hardware} BEV platforms has lower prices together with allowed for carry-over components. For instance, Audi stated that the Audi e-tron GT and Porsche Taycan use comparable large-scale components after implementing the J1 platform.

Audi’s Race Toward Electrification

Audi A6 Avant e-Tron
Audi

Like most producers in right this moment’s ever-changing local weather, Audi has a strict timeline to succeed in each full electrification and a net-zero carbon emissions standing. Audi goals to decarbonize by 2050 whereas spearheading sustainability and electrical charging infrastructure community infrastructure growth within the meantime.

By 2025, Audi aims to have an additional 5,000-plus fast-charging points with a max charging output of 350 kW all through greater than 1,000 completely different areas of Europe. Additionally, that 12 months marks Audi’s deadline to construct wind farms and photo voltaic parks with Audi websites being as carbon-neutral “as possible,” in keeping with Audi. The deadline coincides with the anticipated unveiling of the Audi RS6 e-tron. “The goal is to increase the proportion of regeneratively produced electricity through the partners along with the continuing increase in the share of electric cars,” stated Audi.

You Can Still Buy A New Yamaha SR400 In 2024 In One Place

When beloved, long-running bike fashions are discontinued, it is utterly comprehensible to really feel unhappy. For that purpose, in February 2021, Yamaha announced a yearlong going-away party for the SR400. Over in Japan, it introduced a Final Edition model in 2021 as nicely. 

For a motorcycle that began manufacturing in 1978, the SR400 went a great distance with out altering a lot. Sure, the ultimate years have been gas injected, however that was its essential (and never unreasonable) concession to modernity.

We have completely no proof that anybody at Yamaha ever uttered the precise phrases “electric start, schmelectric start,” however did the SR400 ever have one? No, buddies, it did not. The SR400 was and evermore shall be kickstart all the way in which, ceaselessly and ever, amen.

Rumors Of Its Death Appear To Have Been Greatly Exaggerated

2023 Yamaha SR400 - Thailand Banner

What you are is a banner for the Yamaha Thailand launch of the 2023 SR400. It is available in two colours solely: Silky White and Mat Gray Metallic. The worth of ฿295,000 works out to about $8,492 on the time of writing on January 5, 2024. 

While TripApart took observe when Yamaha Thailand released a Limited Edition 44th Anniversary Edition SR400 in 2022, there is a important distinction between a particular restricted version mannequin and a daily run. Seeing the common 2023 SR400 that anybody with the money can simply stroll into their native Yamaha vendor in Thailand and purchase reveals us that it is not useless all over the place simply but. It’s even nonetheless manufactured in Japan after which exported to Thailand, based on the official brochure.

In truth, all of the specs sound simply as you bear in mind them. It’s nonetheless powered by a two-valve, four-stroke, air-cooled, single overhead cam, 399cc single-cylinder engine. It makes a claimed 17.5 kilowatts (about 23.4 horsepower) at 6,500 rpm and 27.8 newton-meters (about 20.5 pound-feet) of torque at 3,000 rpm.

Curb weight is 175 kilograms (just below 386 kilos). Seat peak is an approachable 790mm (31.1 inches). It makes use of the identical easy nonadjustable telescopic entrance fork and twin rear shock and swingarm suspension setup, which gives 150mm (5.9 inches) of entrance wheel journey and 105mm (4.13 inches) of rear wheel journey. Brakes encompass a single disc brake up entrance and a drum within the rear. It rolls on a pair of 18-inch spoked wheels with tubed tires. 

The promotional video from Yamaha Thailand that we have included on this submit is from a number of years in the past. Apart from the paint and graphics, although, it might simply as simply be from at the moment. This bike is aware of who it is for, and it’s very unapologetic about it.

Audi R8 Sales Doubled In The Supercar’s Final Year

The grim reaper took away the beloved Audi R8 in 2023, however the supercar went out with a proverbial bang. The R8 GT RWD served because the swan music final yr when demand for the Lamborghini Huracan’s sister mannequin doubled within the United States.

Audi of America printed full gross sales outcomes for the yr that simply ended, revealing some fascinating stats. Deliveries of the R8 shot up by 101 %, reaching 631 automobiles in 2023 in comparison with the prior yr when solely 314 individuals purchased one. Looking again in time, Audi moved 649 R8s in 2021, 581 in 2020, 574 in 2019, 927 in 2018, and 772 in 2017. 

The R8 is anticipated to return at some point for a fully electric third generation, one that can hopefully be a hit versus the ill-fated R8 E-Tron. Fewer than 100 models of the electrical supercar had been made with an exorbitant asking value of €1 million a pop.

Year Total Annual Sales
2023 631
2022 314
2021 649
2020 581
2019 574
2018 927
2017 772

Another Audi sports activities automotive going the way in which of the dodo that noticed its gross sales bounce in 2023 was the TT. Recently discontinued, the Tourist Trophy loved a 41-percent hike in demand final yr when the Four Rings bought 725 automobiles within the US. Here’s how the fashionable TT coupe/roadster duo fared in earlier years:

Year Total Annual Sales
2023 725
2022 516
2021 986
2020 830
2019 1,324
2018 1,289
2017 2,294

But how was 2023 for Audi of America total? It was really a file yr as shipments jumped by 22 % to 228,550 autos. Demand for licensed pre-owned (CPO) autos went up by a considerable 14 %, reaching 37,292 models.

The Ingolstadt-based luxurious model is completely satisfied to report gross sales of electrical fashions additionally reached a file stage within the United States:

Audi EV Model Total Sales In 2023
E-Tron GT 3,202
This fall E-Tron 8,144
This fall E-Tron Sportback 2,606
Q8 E-Tron 8,180
Q8 E-Tron Sportback 2,907

Beloved Roadster Factory Declared A Total Loss After Christmas Day Fire Engulfs Building

The Roadster Factory, a beloved components provider of classic British sports activities automobiles, suffered a catastrophic loss after a hearth tore via its Indiana County, Pennsylvania facility on Christmas day, The Tribune Democrat studies. 

The firm’s 48,000-square-foot constructing was declared a complete loss by the hearth chief following a whole day of dousing flames. More than 100 firefighters from two completely different Pennsylvania counties had been referred to as to assist comprise the blaze, says The Tribune Democrat, after the Armagh and East Wheatfield Fire Department obtained the decision at about 1 a.m. Christmas morning. 

Fire crews might be seen sifting via the constructing’s stays as late as midday on Christmas to extinguish hotspots that may restart the hearth. “I would think we’re going to be here for 20 hours,” Armagh and East Wheatfield Township fireplace Chief Tom Fry instructed The Tribune Democrat, “and then we’re probably going to get called back.”

The Roadster Factory makes a speciality of manufacturing and supplying components for classic British sports activities automobiles from the likes of MG, Triumph, and extra. Founded in 1978, the corporate is a “British Motor Heritage Approved Supplier,” with direct entry to original-equipment components in addition to high quality reproductions, based on its web site.

There had been a number of automobiles contained in the construction on the time of the hearth, solely three of which had been eliminated by firefighters earlier than the constructing collapsed, says CBS Pittsburgh. It’s unclear what number of automobiles had been misplaced to the hearth. 

Thankfully nobody was significantly harm, with solely minor accidents reported from firefighters working with particles.

The explanation for the hearth is unclear. The Tribune Democrat says the Pennsylvania state fireplace marshal has been contacted to research.

The Factory’s proprietor, Albert Runyan, was on the scene as firefighters fought the blaze, however declined to remark when questioned by The Tribune Democrat. We’ve reached out to The Roadster Factory ourselves for extra data, together with an inquiry into whether or not it is arrange a strategy to settle for donations for help and rebuilding. We’ll make sure you replace this text once we hear again.

The Story Of Flyin’ Miata And What Makes Them So Special

Summary

  • The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a well-loved sports car known for its lightweight design and excellent handling, but it has been criticized for its lack of power.
  • Flyin’ Miata provides V-8 conversion kits for Miatas, using LS crate engines from GM. These kits include sub-frame reinforcement, chassis bracing, and upgraded suspension and brakes.
  • The ND generation Miata is considered the best for V-8 conversions, with the Flyin’ Miata team pairing it with a 6.2-liter V-8 engine that delivers 525 horsepower, resulting in impressive performance. Unfortunately, Flyin’ Miata has stopped making these conversions since 2019.

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is one of the most beloved automobiles in history, so much so in fact, that it holds the record for the best-selling sports car of all time. In its three-decade production run, it has gone through four different generations and a lot of changes. However, in its essence, the Miata stayed true to what made it so great; a front-engined RWD lightweight sports car with a near-perfect distribution ratio and great handling. Jeremy Clarkson famously once said, “It’s a cure for depression, this car, it really is. You just can’t be in a bad mood when you’re driving it”.

The only persistent criticism that the Miata has faced in its long life has been its lack of power. This is where Flyin’ Miata comes into the picture. Every Miata owner has heard of Flyin’ Miata. Based in Colorado, the company which started out in the service business, has been around for four decades and offers a wide selection of bolt-on parts designed to make your Miatas fly. Back in 2009, they built their first Miata Habu, a 480 horsepower small-block LS engine swapped MX-5, nicknamed “Elvis”. This was the car they perfected their V-8 conversion kits on, before making it available to the general public.

To give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including Flyin’ Miata, Car and Driver, and Road & Track.

Related: Everything You Need To Know About The Factory V-8 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Turning The Dial Upto 11 On The Miata

The habu is a small venomous snake native to Japan and is an apt name for the converted Miata. Elvis has been with Flyin’ Miata company since 2003 and started its life as a white NB-generation MX-5. This car was initially donated by Mazda to Flyin’ Miata to be used as a development car. Elvis has been Flyin’ Miata’s test mule on various concept builds for the past two decades, including the V-8 conversion. Over its lifetime, Elvis has had four engines, so far, and is currently a hill-climb race car built to take part in one of America’s oldest and most prestigious races – the Colorado Hill Climb.

The company’s team has done V-8 conversions for every generation of Miata. Every build features a version of an LS crate engine from GM, which has been chosen for its widespread availability, power, and cost. The team begins the build by

  • Reinforcing the base car with sub-frames
  • Seam welding
  • Chassis bracing
  • A “Big Mama Jama Brake” kit which consists of a Wilwood Stage 1 braking setup
  • Coilover suspension
  • A custom exhaust system

A conversion would set you back $49,995, which does not include the cost of the car and every build can be endlessly customized to exactly your taste. If you are more into DIY, Flyin’ Miata also sells subframe kits which you can buy and do your conversion with a scavenged LS motor. Imagine everything good about the Miata combined with one of the most versatile American engines ever made – that’s in a nutshell what the Miata Habu is all about.

Related: 10 Things That Make The 1989-1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata NA Special

Here’s What Makes The MX-5 ND “Indy” A Noteworthy V-8 Miata

The ND generation Miata is widely considered by many as the best handling Miata ever. In 2016, Flyin’ Miata paired the ND Miata with a 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V-8 LS376/525 crate engine, and named it “Indy”, get it? This engine is essentially the LS3 engine from a fifth-generation Camaro SS with a modified camshaft for use in American Speed Association stock-car racing. This modified engine has an output of 525 horsepower at 6200 RPM. Flyin’ Miata has claimed that the ND Miata is the best generation for an engine swap due to its more spacious engine bay when compared to previous generations.

Performance

Engine

6.2-Liter NA V-8

Output

525 Horsepower

Torque

486 pound-feet

0-60 MPH

3.5 seconds

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

Driveline

RWD

(Data sourced from Flyin’ Miata)

The ND Miata also gets a handful of modifications to make it gel with the larger engine, including a new Tremec T-56 six-speed manual transmission and, an aluminum driveshaft with a rear differential borrowed from a Camaro. It also ditches its electronic steering rack for a hydraulic one, also from the Camaro. The result is a fire-breathing, tarmac-eating, force of combustion that accelerates from 0-60 MPH in 3.5 seconds.

If you are wondering whether the heavier engine affects the legendary Miata’s weight distribution, you will be happy to hear that it does not. Fortunately due to the LS engine being all-aluminium and some meticulous fabrication work by the Flyin’ Miata team – the weight distribution is at 53.4-percent front, 46.6-percent rear weight distribution. The team also sources a controller area network (CAN) computer from MRS Electronic in Germany to ensure that the Miata’s computers can communicate with GM’s computers. And before you ask, yes, these conversions work on the Fiat 124 Abarth Spider as well.

Related: How Mazda Has Achieved 3 Decades Of Roadster Supremacy

There Have Been Some Insane V-8 Miata Conversions Over The Years

Over the years there have been several versions of V-8 Miatas from FM including:

  • Atomic Betty: A bright red 2009 MX-5 NC with a Corvette V-8 engine under the hood. Atomic Betty is a more refined V-8-powered roadster when compared to Elvis.
  • Catfish: A Miata with a more streamlined body kit made by Bauer Limited Productions which is lighter than the stock Miata by 600 pounds.
  • Exocet: An Ariel Atom-inspired bare-bones track weapon designed to be wicked fun on the track.

Related: Rotary Mazda Miata: Why It Never Happened And Is There A Remedy?

One-Of-A-Kind V-8 Conversions From Flyin’ Miata Will Be Getting Rarer From Now On

Unfortunately, Flyin’ Miata has stopped making these wild conversions since 2019, for purely business reasons. Kieth Tanner from FM recently made a video going into detail on why they had to stop offering V-8 conversions. However, if you are in the market for one there are plenty of V-8 converted Miatas out in the wild, still available used car sites like Bring-a-trailer. If you are looking for a V-8 conversion for your own Miata, other brands like V-8 Roadsters offer turnkey packages to turn a stock Miata.

As for Flyin’ Miata, their builds are a testament to the inherent versatility of the Miata platform and the only limit is your imagination. Even though they do not do V-8 conversions anymore, they still make a wide range of products specially designed to make your Miata go fast. Even after three decades the passionate team at FM remains dedicated to producing great products for your Miata. With the next generation release of the Miata just around the corner, the team is hard at work dreaming up some premium products.

The Final Audi TT Special Edition: Beautiful Green Paint and Gray Roof

Audi is bidding farewell to the TT. In February, the company announced that its beloved sports car was nearing the end of its production line, along with the R8 supercar. However, both vehicles are going out in style with a range of special trims, including the new TT Roadster Final Edition.

The Final Edition features Audi Exclusive Goodwood Green Pearl paint, paying homage to the first-generation TT, which offered this color as an option. For the first time ever, the roof is gray, matching the matte gray bumpers and side profile accents. Additionally, this Final Edition model is based on the S Line trim, with 20-inch wheels as standard.

While the previous S Line badges have been removed from the exterior and interior, the Final Edition replaces the standard brushed aluminum accents with carbon fiber. The seats are covered in beautiful Palomino Brown leather, described by Audi as a “modern interpretation” of the original TT’s baseball seats, although the similarities are not immediately apparent.

When it comes to performance, the TT Roadster Final Edition is equipped with a base turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The TT can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 5.5 seconds and comes with standard all-wheel drive and magnetic ride control, which lowers the ride height by 0.3 inches.

Only 50 units of the Final Edition will be available in the United States, so interested buyers need to act quickly. The Audi TT Roadster Final Edition is priced at $68,895, including the $1,095 destination fee. Other unique special-edition TT models are available in markets such as the UK, Japan, and Spain.

Alfa Romeo 4E: The Electric Replacement for 4C

In 2019, Alfa Romeo enthusiasts were disappointed to learn that the beloved 4C was being discontinued. This small sports car, which made its debut as a Coupe in 2013 and later as a Spider in 2015, was no longer in production worldwide. The Coupe had already bid farewell to the US market in 2018, leaving only the remaining 4Cs in dealer inventories as the last chance for potential buyers to own this Italian gem.

However, Alfa Romeo has undergone changes and is now a different company. It has become profitable once again and has set its sights on achieving a new sales record by the mid-decade. As part of its new ambitions, Alfa Romeo is now planning to introduce a new electric roadster, replacing the 4C, according to a comprehensive report by Autocar. This move is part of a broader strategy to electrify and revamp the brand’s lineup.