Editor’s note: Our European colleagues at Motor1 and InsideEVs Italy have all the fun! They teamed up with several brands, including Hot Wheels, to create this very cool car that brings out the kid in all of us. Here’s the story of the Tesla Model 3 Hot Wheels.
If you are an enthusiast of any automotive genre, you likely played with Hot Wheels as a kid. Hell, you might play with Hot Wheels as an adult, and we’re totally on board with that. In fact, we’re so on board that we teamed up with Hot Wheels and other companies to create a car we can actually drive. Behold the Tesla Model 3 Hot Wheels, coming to you in 1:1 scale.
This is the brainchild of our Italian editions for Motor1 and InsideEVs, and it certainly looks like a proper Hot Wheels car. It comes to life with a body wrap using a satin anodized blue base for the background – a proper Hot Wheels shade. Of course there’s a proper Hot Wheels logo along the sides, emblazoned in the classic red flag that spans a majority of the side. The wrap also features lightning bolts and the number 3, reflective of this being an electric Tesla Model 3. Why a Tesla you ask? Because small-scale Hot Wheels cars are silent, just like this large-scale version.
The customization doesn’t stop there. The Tesla Model 3 Hot Wheels rides on 19-inch OZ Racing Superturismo Aero-E wheels. These are specifically designed for high-performance electric cars, and they wear Goodyear F1 tires. And to give the Model 3 a bit more visual punch, it wears a modest carbon-fiber body kit including a spoiler and diffuser at the rear, and a splitter at the front. It’s a special kit that provides additional downforce without compromising the Model 3’s range.
The LG C2, despite being succeeded by the C3, is still considered the better option. While the C3 offers slightly higher brightness and a newer interface, it is significantly more expensive, priced at $1,899. On the other hand, the C2 can often be found at a discount of around $600, making it a more affordable choice. Both models use the same panel, so there are no hardware upgrades with the newer version. The C2 delivers top-tier image quality, 120Hz VRR, and LG’s Game Optimizer, all packaged in a minimalist design suitable for any space.
The LG C2 features the α9 Gen 5 processor, which enhances the sharpness of lower-resolution content with 4K upscaling. It also supports Dolby Atmos for a more immersive sound experience. LG’s proprietary smart TV OS offers seamless integration with various streaming platforms, including Apple TV, Disney+, Netflix, and Hulu. There are few drawbacks to the C2, especially considering its current discounted price. As of now, you can find it on Amazon for just under $1,299.
Over the years, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) have become common in modern cars, and they have also made their way into the world of two-wheeled vehicles. Radar-assisted cruise control and blind spot detection systems are now being incorporated into flagship adventure and sport touring motorcycles.
OEMs like Ducati, BMW, and Yamaha are collaborating with established companies such as Bosch and Continental to develop these systems and address placement issues for the components.
The Chinese Patent Office recently published a patent application filed by Kymco, a major Taiwanese OEM known for its scooters but also involved in motorcycle and electric vehicle development.
In the patent, Kymco explores the placement of rear-facing radar units in various potential motorbike designs. Among the drawings are configurations that resemble a café racer design and an adventure bike.
Kymco’s design goals for these configurations include protecting the radar unit from the weather and other obstructions, such as rain, mud, and snow. The unit is positioned between the taillight unit and the license plate unit, set back to offer some shelter from the elements. This design also aims to deter theft by integrating the radar unit into the rear portion of the motorbike.
These patent drawings indicate that Kymco is planning ahead for future motorbike models. Considering their partnership with LiveWire for the production of lightweight electric motorbikes, it is possible that the unseen tail configurations could be part of upcoming LiveWire models.
However, this speculation is purely based on the patent filing and partnership, and there is no concrete evidence to confirm or deny these assumptions. It is common for people to connect dots and create their own narratives, even when there is limited information available.
What are your thoughts and speculations on these images? Share your opinions in the comments section.
If you’re not deeply involved in the world of motorcycles, you might not be familiar with CZ, a motorcycle manufacturer founded in Czechoslovakia in 1919. Originally a branch of Škoda Works, CZ transitioned from producing weapons to motorized bicycles in 1932. The company started making CZ-branded motorcycles in 1935 and continued to do so until the 1990s, with a brief interruption during World War II when they made machine parts for the Germans.
Now that we know a little bit about CZ’s history, let’s dive into this fascinating restoration video by the Crazy Restoration team.
The video features the restoration of a mid-60s CZ Model 453. This particular motorcycle had seen better days, with its engine locked up, extensive rust and dirt, bent wheels, and a large dent with a gash in the fuel tank. At first glance, it might seem like a lost cause.
However, the Crazy Restoration team doesn’t give up easily. Over the course of around six months, they put in countless hours of hard work, sanding, fabricating, painting, and laboring to bring this motorcycle back to life. They salvaged and reused as many parts as possible and sourced new old stock (NOS) and aftermarket parts where needed. The result of their efforts is truly impressive.
If you’re curious to see the transformation, I highly recommend watching the video. It’s a testament to the team’s dedication and a joy to witness another classic bike saved from the scrapyard.
We have mixed feelings about the Suzuki DR650S. On one hand, we appreciate the fact that Suzuki has kept this model in production for over 32 years. On the other hand, it is still a motorcycle that is essentially 32 years old. However, despite its age, the DR650S has its merits and continues to be offered in the market.
The Suzuki DR650S is a big, air-cooled single-cylinder motorcycle with a carburetor. It is priced at $6999, which is the same as a Yamaha YZ125 motocross bike. What’s interesting is that the DR650S is still manufactured in Japan, while most other motorcycles in this price range are made in countries like China, Thailand, or Vietnam. As a result, the DR650S stands out as one of the last remaining models of its kind.
LOOKING BACK The roots of the DR650S can be traced back to the 1978 Suzuki SP370, the company’s first four-stroke off-road bike. Over the years, it evolved into the present-day DR650S with various updates and improvements. In 1993, the electric starter was introduced, which was a major step forward. Today’s DR650S remains fundamentally similar to the initial version. In the late 90s, the DR650S was considered one of the top dual-sport bikes in terms of performance and handling.
THE DR TODAY Despite the DR650S remaining largely unchanged, its role in the market has shifted. It is no longer considered a high-performance bike or a traditional dual-sport model. Instead, it serves as an entry-level adventure bike. The bike’s design and layout reflect its 90s heritage, with a thick seat and handlebars that sweep back towards the rider. Vibration is minimal thanks to rubber-mounted footpegs and handlebar weights. The power delivery of the big single-cylinder engine is torque-oriented, offering a distinct and satisfying acceleration experience. While it lacks the rev-happy nature of modern bikes, the DR650S produces more torque than many of its rivals. Its tall gearing allows for cruising at low RPM, making it comfortable for long rides on dirt roads. However, the bike may struggle on fast trails due to its street-oriented tires and limited suspension adjustability. It is also relatively heavy compared to its competitors.
The 2023 Suzuki DR650S is still around. It sells for $6999.
WHERE WE STARTED The Kawasaki KLR650 remains the closest competitor to the Suzuki DR650S. While the KLR650 has received updates and now features fuel injection, the DR650S remains unchanged in terms of its carbureted engine. Fuel injection is seen as an added complexity and expense in a bike like the DR650S. Despite its age, the DR650S still finds its place in the modern world and has an enduring appeal. We believe it deserves to continue being produced indefinitely.
We know Volkswagen has something cooking with the Tiguan. Numerous camouflaged prototypes have been caught on camera, using clever disguises to make the next-gen model look much like the current one. Now, a curious teaser video from Volkswagen shows a simple sketch of a vehicle against a blue background, and it could be our first taste of how the new SUV will look. Moreover, we may not have long to wait before learning more.
Posted as a YouTube short on the VW News channel, we get only a small clip showing white lines on a blue background. However, the menagerie of lines come together at times to show a vehicle. Our screengrab at the top of this article catches two prominent moments, showing the grille and a good portion of the front. One might think we’re looking at a car, but the outline of roof rails confirms this is something a bit bigger.
Beyond the visuals, VW delivers a bit of interesting information as well. We’re promised “something new” which isn’t exactly a revelation here, but then a date of 15 June 2023 pops up. A quick glance at the calendar shows us that’s tomorrow as this article publishes. We haven’t heard anything regarding an imminent debut, so it’s unclear if we’re about to get full disclosure or some new information regarding future announcements.
If this is the next-gen Tiguan, we can expect a familiar overall shape that embodies an evolutionary approach to design. The fact that VW can apply stickers to various areas on prototypes to make them look like the current model means the formula won’t be shaken too much. We have identified smaller headlights, and we think a thinner upper grille is in store, augmented by a larger grille down low. The teaser video supports these theories, and previous spy photos have revealed a completely revamped interior with a larger tablet-like center display.
More news is coming soon, so stick with Motor1.com as we’ll have all the latest VW info as soon as it breaks.
Tesla will once again participate in a Chinese auto show following the eventful start of the 2021 Shanghai Auto Show. The prominent American electric vehicle manufacturer will attend the 2023 Shenzhen Auto Show on June 16, with rumors suggesting that the highly anticipated refreshed Model 3 might take center stage.
In recent times, auto shows have lost some of their allure among carmakers, and the global pandemic has delivered a significant blow to what was once a prime occasion for introducing new… (continue reading…)
Ever dreamt of blending the engine of one bike with the frame of another to create a high-performance masterpiece? John Murray made it a reality by combining the 2023 Honda CRF450R chassis with the powerful 2023 KTM 300SX two-stroke fuel-injected engine.
John Murray, a dirt bike enthusiast who also owns a construction company, took matters into his own hands and designed the conversion. The result was an impressive DIY build that Dirt Bike Magazine couldn’t help but take notice of.
Utilizing available resources rather than working with high-end builders in a factory garage, Murray was able to prove that thinking outside the box could lead to an exceptional outcome. Check out the up-close look at this unique creation in the video below!
Motorcycles have developed from being only a technique of transport to being enjoyable, way of life machines that serve completely different functions. And in relation to way of life bikes, journey bikes have created a distinct segment marketplace for themselves. They are constructed to tackle tough terrain and are a well-liked alternative with fanatics who like to discover the uncharted lands. KTM is one bike producer who appears to have understood this fanatic and his wants very effectively. The Austrian producer has a slew of journey bikes and the brand new 2023 KTM 790 Adventure is undeniably among the best journey bikes available on the market in the present day, particularly in case you are searching for a sub-1000 cc adventure touring motorcycle on a budget.
The newest iteration of the KTM 790 Adventure brings the efficiency and flexibility of the unique 2018 KTM 790 Adventure however has been reworked and redesigned for the 2023 mannequin yr. The modifications are fairly important and embody an all-new rally impressed bodywork and a brand new refined chassis. The 2023 KTM 790 Adventure additionally brings revamped suspension, a brand-new set of tires and a bunch of digital options which assist enhance dealing with and stability, making it the most effective twin floor bike in its section.
The new 2023 KTM 790 Adventure now comes with a EURO5 emissions score
One of the primary issues we think about earlier than shopping for a bike is its efficiency. And the brand new 2023 KTM 790 Adventure packs some critical energy. Inheriting the identical 799 cc parallel-twin engine from its predecessor (the 2018 KTM 790 Adventure), the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure churns out 93.8 horsepower and 64.1 pound-feet of torque. These figures are among the greatest within the middleweight journey bike section. In reality, no different sub-800 cc bike can match the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure’s energy and torque numbers which come seriously close to the 888 cc Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro. And these numbers aren’t simply there to make the spec sheet look good, they really ship. However, what makes the 2023 mannequin yr 790 Adventure much more particular is that it’s now EURO 5 compliant, which means that it’s now greener and eligible on the market in additional markets than earlier than. There’s additionally a reworked clutch and new clutch discs for smoother shifting and to not point out it comes with Quickshifter+ which helps you to upshift and downshift without needing to pull the clutch lever. The six-speed guide transmission turns out to be useful throughout lengthy rides. And simply in case you’re questioning, the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure can attain a high velocity of 140 mph.
2The Styling
KTM
The new 2023 KTM 790 Adventure options rally-inspired bodywork and in-mold graphics
Performance apart, the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure incorporates a new rally impressed bodywork which makes it look extra rugged and adventurous than earlier than whereas providing higher agility and low-drag penetration. It additionally sports activities a closely reworked entrance finish that includes twin side-by-side headlights, full with LED DRLs, which mixed with the high-mounted LED blinkers and LED headlight, give the bike true ready-to-race seems to be whereas providing superior visibility at evening. It additionally sports activities a taller windshield that not solely provides to the journey tourer seems to be however protects the rider from mud and wind. The massive aerodynamically designed anti-buffer vent on the windshield attracts air in behind the glass to cut back vacuum and even out the airflow towards the rider’s helmet. The 790 Adventure additionally sports activities in-mold graphics which can be molded into the panels and never stickered, which provides to the end and sturdiness of the bike. And lastly, KTM couldn’t have gone flawed with the 2 hanging coloration methods – a new white with orange graphics and a black option.
The New 2023 KTM 790 Adventure has a light-weight but robust Chrome Molybdenum Steel body
Adventure bikes take numerous assault. That is why they should have a robust chassis to tackle no matter floor you throw at them. KTM has accomplished a implausible job with the brand new 790 Adventure’s body. The 2023 790 Adventure makes use of a tubular, powder-coated Chrome-Molybdenum-Steel body that’s each light-weight and powerful, and it has been tuned to a 25.9-degree angle of rake for added power and rigidity. What’s extra, the engine acts as a confused member to cut back a pleasant chunk of the framing and the burden related to it. This intelligent engineering helps the KTM 790 Adventure obtain its gentle dealing with and contributes to a dry weight of simply 199 Kg (438.7 lbs.), making it simply 60 lbs heavier than its smaller sibling the entry-level KTM 390 Adventure. But in the event you thought this was a compromise, there’s a brand new engine protector that provides to the general power of the chassis and presents just a little extra peace of thoughts whereas out on the path.
4Improved Ergonomics
KTM
The 2023 KTM 790 Adventure sports activities a redesigned entrance finish with taller windshield
Like all journey bikes, the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure is a tall bike. The parallel-twin powerplant sits 233 mm (9.2 inches) above the bottom which is an honest floor clearance to deal with most rocks and boulders with out scraping the bike’s underbelly. However, with this type of floor clearance you’d count on to take a seat larger on the KTM 790 Adventure, however its seat top of 840 mm (33.1 inches) isn’t going to be a difficulty for many riders. The tank spoilers and rear aspect panels are barely wider than the seat, making it simpler to hit the lengthy street to nowhere, whereas the slim gasoline tank and foot peg place permits riders tall and quick to take a seat or stand comfortably for exact dealing with and improved rider motion. You get a break up seat as normal, however there’s an possibility for a single-piece rally seat together with different seat choices for extra adventurous offroading.
The 2023 KTM 790 Adventure will get an all-new 5-inch TFT show
KTM has accomplished loads of enhancements to the brand new 790 Adventure’s already superior electronics package deal for the MY23 mannequin. The 2023 790 Adventure boasts a brand new 5-inch TFT show which bundles the instrumentation and electronics management into one location. The menu system has been redesigned to supply improved performance with every perform illustrated by an infographic of the bike to make it extra visually partaking so that you can make changes. Apart from the rider electronics, the brand new 5-inch show comes outfitted to ship music, turn-by-turn navigation and the power to take incoming cellphone calls with connectivity offered by the KTMconnect app via Bluetooth. It even comes with roadside help do you have to want it.
6New Suspension Setup And Tires
KTM
KTM has improved the suspension setup on the 2023 790 Adventure
To qualify as an journey bike, the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure wants to supply superior suspension and a some significantly good rubber. And this it does. With its spectacular suspension setup each on the entrance and rear mixed with the in depth suite of rider electronics options, the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure presents unwavering stability and traction on each floor. It will get a brand new suspension setup on the entrance with the 43 mm WP APEX forks (non-adjustable) and a WP APEX Monoshock on the rear with preload adjustability. Both these shockers provide 200 mm (7.87 inches) journey that ought to simply absorb some critical craters. As for the tires, the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure comes fitted with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR that are among the best tires for journey bikes. These tires include massive tread blocks for conquering tough offroad tracks and trails, very best for riders searching for sturdiness, dealing with and mileage.
The 2023 KTM 790 Adventure presents an Off-Road ABS mode and KTM MTC
Brakes are an essential a part of each bike, extra so when it’s an journey bike. And the newest KTM 790 Adventure presents some critical stopping energy. The 2023 KTM 790 Adventure comes outfitted with twin 320 mm discs with twin radially-mounted four-piston calipers on the entrance wheel and a 260 mm disc with two-piston floating caliper out on the again. Both these brakes provide sufficient chew to deliver the bike to a standstill in a matter of seconds but when this setup doesn’t sound too reassuring, the ABS characteristic comes with an Off-Road Mode which you’ll dial in if you exit to beat new terrains. More on that within the subsequent part.
8Rider Aids
KTM
The 2023 KTM 790 Adventure presents a bunch of rider aids to make the trip safer
KTM knew you may be throwing the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure on all sorts of terrain, so it outfitted its newest journey bike with all of the essential riders aids to maintain you secure and improve the general driving expertise. ABS comes normal and is built-in into all three default driving modes – Rain, Street and Off-Road. The 790 Adventure additionally options KTM’s newest Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC) expertise which makes use of a sophisticated 6D inertial measurement unit to enhance traction. This 6D sensor continuously displays and evaluates the dynamic state of the bike to boost security and stability throughout braking and cornering. The new Cornering Traction Control characteristic lets you use full braking energy mid-corner, thus enhancing cornering traction. Simply put, these rider aids make the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure a great adventure motorcycle for beginners.
The manufacturing unit put in Demo characteristic lets riders preview all of the electronics extras earlier than selecting to maintain them
The 2023 KTM 790 Adventures comes pre-installed with a “Demo” characteristic straight out of the manufacturing unit. Although it might appear a bit gimmicky, this nifty characteristic lets you preview all of the digital driving extras until you hit 1,500 km (932 miles) on the odometer earlier than making a call whether or not to pay to maintain these extras. Of course, the Demo mode has its execs and cons relying on the way you take a look at it. It’s at all times good to have a trial interval earlier than deciding to purchase one thing, however… By letting you get the most effective out of your 790 Adventure for a sure time, or distance on this case, it kinda ruins your future expertise with the bike in the event you select to not preserve any of the additional options after the trial ends.
10Fuel Capacity
KTM
The 5.2-gallon gasoline tank of the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure ensures riders additional
When you’re heading out for an journey or touring an extended distance on a motorcycle, a big gasoline tank is at all times good to have. And whereas touring bikes have enormous gasoline tank capacities, the 2023 KTM Adventure’s beneficiant 5.2-gallon gasoline tank ensures that you just don’t must make these frequent stops on the gasoline station and waste your time for a refill, particularly if you’re out in areas the place there aren’t any gasoline stations for miles. Plus, the 790 Adventure’s newly attained EURO5 compliance ought to lead to higher gasoline effectivity than earlier than. And if that does not sound too interesting, the knock sensors fitted to the engine that make sure you gained’t have any downside operating your 2023 KTM 790 Adventure with low octane fuels, very best for driving in areas with restricted gasoline choices.
Reddit has implemented changes that have led to several communities shutting down their operations in protest. The automotive industry also participated in the shutdown starting on June 12, which is aimed to last for 48 hours, or even indefinitely in some subreddits.
As of writing this article, a Twitch live stream monitoring the situation shows that almost 8,000 communities have gone dark. This includes the largest subreddit for cars, r/Cars, which has 4.9 million members. Other major auto-related subreddits that are currently private are r/Autos, r/Spotted, r/IdiotsInCars, r/AskCarSales, and dozens of manufacturer and vehicle-specific groups. This move has essentially removed them from the public’s view.
However, not all of Reddit’s world has shut down. As we publish this article on the afternoon of June 12, r/CarTalk and its 650,000-plus members are still active, as is r/Mechanic Advice with 1.1 million members. Though with subreddits closing down on a seemingly minute-by-minute basis, it’s highly possible that these sites could turn private by the time you read this.
Changes made by Reddit regarding third-party apps are the reasons behind these protests. Reddit is imposing API costs on third-party developers that force them to shut down. API stands for application programming interface, which is the software that enables different applications to communicate. These apps are commonly used among Reddit users, and they supposedly help subreddits moderators keep their communities running smoothly. As per NBC News, one developer must shut down their application at the end of June, as the API charges would cost over $20 million per year.
It’s unclear whether r/Cars will return on June 14 or remain private. Motor1.com has reached out to r/Cars’ moderators to get some insights into this situation, but we haven’t received a response yet. We’ll update this article if more information becomes available.
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