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Cars

10 Of The Most Reliable JDM Engines Ever Built

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You have most likely heard about Toyota’s JDM-only Rolls-Royce killer, the Century sedan. A automobile that sits above Lexus in Toyota’s pecking order, the Century is a meticulously designed machine targeted on final quietness, consolation, and refinement. An integral a part of that have, no less than within the second-gen mannequin, was the state-of-the-art 1GZ-FE — the one Japanese V12 engine ever made.

Effortless and creamy, the Century V12 is likely one of the smoothest engines in existence. Toyota additionally created a really dependable and sturdy machine, yielding essentially the most polished engine potential. For occasion, Toyota’s engineers used the corporate’s VVTi system, iridium electrode spark plugs, and slant-squish combustion chambers to stabilize every cylinder’s combustion.

Moreover, they made each half extra inflexible and manufactured it to very tight tolerances, all within the identify of most refinement. This, inadvertently, additionally made the engine extra strong and sturdy. Notably, the 1GZ-FE incorporates a cast metal crankshaft and valve shims coated with titanium, that are elements often put in in racing engines – not an underpowered luxurious V12. At 5.0-liter capability, the 1GZ-FE produces solely 276 horsepower (as a result of JDM automakers gents’s settlement), so no inside half is confused close to its restrict. Heck, Toyota even put in two ECUs for every cylinder financial institution, so if one fails, the engine will proceed to run on six cylinders.

Due to its overengineered nature and using unique elements, the common lifespan of the 1GZ-FE engine is sort of 300,000 miles. It’s additionally turning into more and more standard in tuning circles since Smokey Nagata put this V12 in a 1,000-horsepower Toyota Supra.

[Featured image by Ypy31 via Wikimedia Commons | Cropped and scaled | CC0 1.0]

News

Everything You Need To Know in regards to the 2024 Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride

I first heard in regards to the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride (DGR) six years in the past when dwelling in Chaing Mai, Thailand. I requested what it was about, and a buddy instructed me, “It’s great, you just dress up and ride your bike.”.

And whereas he is not essentially fallacious, there’s a lot extra to it than that.

I want I’d been extra well-informed again then and gotten concerned with the charity, however whereas I can not change the previous, I can use my platform to lift consciousness for the DGR now and encourage you all to participate.

Here’s what it is all about, together with what’s in retailer for this 12 months.

The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride 2024 press release

Yes, cool customized and basic bikes are all over the place, and dapper riders. But, at its core, the DGR is a coming collectively of motorcyclists world wide to lift funds and consciousness for prostate most cancers analysis and males’s psychological well being.

The charity was based in Sydney, Australia by Mark Hawwa in 2012, as a method to fight the usually unfavorable stereotype related to motorcyclists and lift funds for an essential trigger.

The causes? Since its inception, DGR has raised greater than $45M for prostate most cancers analysis and males’s psychological well being.

The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride 2024 press release

Where and When

The 2024 DGR will happen on Sunday, May nineteenth, and also you should not must go far to hitch your native journey. This 12 months, the DGR is making a monumental push towards internet hosting 1,000 rides concurrently across the globe.

This is according to DGR’s “Side by Side, Worldwide” marketing campaign. According to Hawwa, the Founder and Director of the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride,

In 2024, we now have set ourselves the objective of reaching 1,000 cities world wide. We have ridden with one another on the identical day all world wide since 2012. Our group is one which comes collectively, regardless of borders and oceans, driving facet by facet to lift more and more essential funds and consciousness for males’s psychological well being and prostate most cancers. DGR 2024 is the 12 months that we have a good time our fellow gentlefolk world wide that we journey alongside, united by a ardour, and pushed by the trigger.

The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride 2024 press release

Just follow the link to register in your native DGR occasion, and if you cannot make it, you possibly can nonetheless donate.

Partners and Prizes

The DGR charity has a few of the most wonderful companions, one being Movember. So, by supporting the DGR, you are additionally supporting arguably the largest charity that advantages points surrounding males’s psychological and bodily well being.

This can be Triumph’s eleventh 12 months as an official DGR companion, and it has one thing particular in retailer for many who participate. According to Paul Stroud, Chief Commercial Officer at Triumph Motorcycles,

We are working facet by facet with the DGR and our rising world supplier community to assist obtain 1,000 Rides. This 12 months, we can be rewarding the best fundraiser with an iconic motorbike; the Thruxton Final Edition, in addition to donating 5 unique clothes prizes to Team Triumph fundraisers.

The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride 2024 press release

So get entangled. The worst end result is you’ve got an amazing day and lift cash for a implausible trigger. But, finest case state of affairs, you journey away on a brand new Triumph Thruxton Final Edition.

Let us know in case you’ll be becoming a member of the DGR and the place since you by no means know, a few of RideAside’s workforce members simply is likely to be there.

Featured

Car News That Mattered This Week (Feb 19-23): New Updates & Variant Launches, Spy Shots, And More

 Last week, we not solely acquired updates on upcoming variant launches but in addition heard a few Japanese automaker’s announcement of its comeback to the Indian market

In the second final week of February, Mahindra launched a brand new variant of certainly one of its fashionable SUVs, whereas we additionally received the launch date for Hyundai’s new N Line SUV. In the identical week, an fascinating spy video of the upcoming Mahindra Thar 5-door additionally surfaced on the web. Let’s take a look in any respect the essential highlights of the week.

Hyundai Creta N Line Launch Date Out

Hyundai Creta N Line launch date confirmed

The Creta goes to be the subsequent N Line badged providing from Hyundai in India, and its launch date has been confirmed. The Creta N Line can be based mostly on the lately launched Creta facelift, nonetheless it is going to function an up to date fascia and certain a distinct transmission possibility with its turbo-petrol engine.

Mahindra Scorpio N New Variant Launched 

Mahindra Scorpio N Z8 Select launched

The Mahindra Scorpio N received a one-below-top Z8 Select variant final week. It not solely will get extra options than the Z6 variant, however it has additionally been launched with the brand new exterior shade. To know extra concerning the Z8 Select variant of the Scorpio N, head right here.

Tata Nexon Dark Edition Variants Leaked

Tata nexon Dark

The Tata Nexon received a facelift in September 2023, however with that Tata didn’t give the Nexon the Dark version therapy. However, prior to now week, variant particulars of the Tata Nexon facelift Dark edition got leaked. 

Mahindra Scorpio X Nameplate Trademarked

Mahindra trademarked the ‘Scorpio X’ nameplate in India, which in keeping with stories, might be the identify for the production-ready model of the Global Pik Up. The Global Pik Up is a pickup truck based mostly on the Scorpio N, which was showcased as an idea in 2023.

Toyota Innova Hycross Reached A Sales Milestone

Toyota Innova Hycross sales cross 50,000 units

The Toyota Innova Hycross is the successor to the Toyota Innova Crysta which entered the Indian market in 2022. Now after over a yr since its inception, it has reached a significant sales milestone of 50,000 units.

Mitsubishi Announced Comeback To India

Mitsubishi returning to India

Mitsubishi Corporation will make a comeback to the Indian market in 2024. According to stories, the Japanese firm may even make a major funding in India to advance mobility options for Japanese automakers within the nation.

Skoda Looking To Enter Sub-4m SUV

Skoda SUV sketch design

Skoda is aiming to enter the lineup of subcompact SUVs in India to compete with fashions just like the Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza, and Hyundai Venue. More particulars about this upcoming venture will be announced by Skoda by the end of February.

Spring EV Revealed

2024 Dacia Spring (Renault Kwid EV)

Dacia, Renault’s budget-oriented model, unveiled the new-generation Spring EV for European markets. The Spring EV might additionally function a design inspiration for the new-generation Renault Kwid in India.

Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Recalled

Toyota Land Cruiser 300 recalled

Toyota announced a voluntary recall of the Land Cruiser 300 SUVs final week. The Land Cruiser is the flagship SUV from Toyota in India that already instructions a protracted ready interval globally. To know why this recall was completed, head right here.

Spy Shots Of The Week

5-door Mahindra Thar Spied

Last week, the 2 5-door offroad SUVs have been spied testing. One was the Force Gurkha 5-doorwhich was just spied ahead of its launch, whereas the opposite was the take a look at mule of the Mahindra Thar 5-door, which was seen struggling to get out of slushy terrain.

News

The greatest Chinese vehicles – from Aiways to Zeekr

Read our MG 5 review

BYD Atto 3

05 Chinese cars

Your dad and mom may not have heard of BYD (Build Your Dreams). But anybody au fait with the web in all probability has. 

The firm tops the charts for innovation and gross sales, but it surely has solely not too long ago entered the UK.

The Atto 3 is the agency’s first automotive over right here. Social media customers had been dazzled by its infotainment, which switches from portrait to panorama on the awkward prod of a touchscreen, in addition to its guitar string audio system, which, to be frank, do not work very nicely.

Look past the gimmicks and also you’ll discover a spacious, well-thought-out electrical SUV. It will simply cowl 200 miles in the true world, and its four-year/74,500-mile guarantee and separate eight-year/124,000-mile battery guarantee is reassuring.

Read our BYD Atto 3 review

Aiways U5

06 Chinese cars

Another model you may not have heard of. But Aiways has come on leaps and bounds since beginning out in 2017.

The firm prides itself on its ‘clean sheet’ strategy to automotive making and, we’ve to confess, it’s refreshingly easy. 

For occasion, it doesn’t include an in-built sat-nav. It affords telephone mirroring as an alternative, due to course your smartphone has the very best software program constructed in.

To drive, it’s enjoyable, if just a little unremarkable. Its softly sprung suspension offers with highway imperfections nicely, however its 201bhp isn’t going to get Tesla followers out of their Model Ys.

Read our Aiways U5 review

BYD Dolphin

07 Chinese cars

BYD is hoping its second automotive within the UK will make a giant splash (sorry) within the electrical hatchback market. 

In phrases of measurement, it sits between the Vauxhall Corsa Electric and Volkswagen ID 3, but it surely’s usefully cheaper than each.

Motorsport

Rare Japanese Kei Car With Supercar DNA Is Looking For A New US Owner

If you’ve by no means heard in regards to the Autozam AZ-1, that’s fantastic. It’s a comparatively uncommon small automobile from Japan, and you’re most likely questioning why it’s best to care about it in any respect. The brief reply is that it’s completely wonderful. The compact coupe has a structure harking back to its bigger, extra highly effective supercar counterparts, that includes a mid-mounted turbo engine, a handbook transmission, and gullwing doorways. 

There’s one AZ-1 presently obtainable on the market within the United States. What makes this specific automobile much more particular is its classification because the M2-1015 mannequin, a uncommon breed of which nearly 50 exist with distinctive enhancements similar to fog lights and a revised rear spoiler. The addition of aftermarket modifications, together with a throaty exhaust, a glossy Momo steering wheel, and heart console-mounted gauges, doesn’t actually damage the manufacturing unit look however reasonably appears to be enhancing it properly.


Motorsport

This Electric Minivan Was Built By The London Taxi Company

You’ve in all probability by no means heard of the London Electric Vehicle Company (LEVC). This is the agency that produces the resurrected London Taxi within the type of an electrical cab with a 1.5-liter Volvo-sourced engine appearing as a spread extender. LEVC is owned by Geely – the identical producer that additionally owns Lotus, Volvo, Smart, Zeekr, Polestar, and others – and is increasing its enterprise into new territory with the L380.

The single-box automobile has a minimalist design impressed by the Airbus A380 with a coast-to-coast LED strip on the entrance and principal beam headlights mounted within the bumper. From the facet, it appears fairly peculiar other than the flush door handles and the excessive greenhouse. What’s below the pores and skin is extra attention-grabbing, although.


NewsNew

TRIUMPH TF 250-X MX BIKE COMPLETE SPECIFICATIONS: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

We now have the official specifications for the 2024 Triumph TF 250-X motocross bike, including some surprising choices:

  • TF 250-X has a class-leading power-to-weight ratio and the highest specification components
  • Designed and developed by Triumph’s world leading engineers in close collaboration with motocross champions
  • Comprehensive new network of specialist motocross dealers, backed by a new 24/7 online parts supply system

The new TF 250-X has been unveiled by Triumph Motorcycles, boasting a class-leading power to weight ratio and an extensive specification package. Developed entirely by Triumph in collaboration with racing champions such as Ricky Carmichael and Iván Cervantes, the four-stroke competition model features a ground-up design. The bike’s performance racing powertrain and unique aluminum chassis are ultra-compact and superlight, equipped with top-of-the-line components.

With its focused, aggressive style, the TF 250-X is slim, bold, and instantly recognizable on the track, featuring a minimal and lightweight presence along with distinctive Triumph Racing Yellow and black graphics scheme.

A new network of specialist motocross dealers will offer sales, servicing, parts, and a dedicated range of apparel, supported by a mobile-optimized 24/7 online parts supply system, allowing customers to order for express delivery straight from the track.

“The launch of the TF 250-X is the culmination of a significant commitment and investment from Triumph, to not just bring a totally new bike to the motocross world, but to deliver a winning performance. To achieve this, we are focused on delivering the most complete package for any riding level, from champion to amateur,” said Triumph Motorcycles’ Chief Product Manager, Steve Sargent.

Triumph has developed a new performance racing powertrain for the TF 250-X, featuring a competition four-stroke single that is ultra-compact and superlight. The engine includes a forged aluminum piston, titanium valves, diamond-like carbon low friction coatings, lightweight magnesium covers, and an Exedy Belleville clutch. In addition to advanced engine management and tunability, riders can use the optional MX Tune Pro app for real-time user-selectable mapping, a live engine sensor dashboard, and live diagnostic functionality through a controlled programmable engine management system.

The unique aluminum chassis of the TF 250-X features a high strength, lightweight spine frame with twin cradles, providing the best ‘power-to-weight’ ratio in the category. The bike also offers a high level of tunability to suit different riders and styles.

Premium, top-tier componentry is featured throughout the TF 250-X, offering an unrivaled specification for a production bike in this category. The bike includes KYB suspension with 48mm AOS coil forks, forged and machined 7075-T6 aluminum triple clamps, and a three-way piggyback coil rear shock. The premium Brembo braking system features twin 24mm piston floating front calipers, a single 26mm piston floating rear caliper, and Galfer 260mm front and 220mm rear discs. The bike also comes equipped with DirtStar 7000 Series aluminum rims, Pirelli Scorpion MX32 mid-soft tires, Pro-Taper ACF carbon core bars, and ODI half-waffle lock-on grips.

Triumph has also worked with premium brands to create a dedicated range of competition accessories to further enhance performance and capability. These accessories include an Akrapovič full titanium exhaust system, XTrig hole shot device, Athena LC-GPA launch control module, MX Tune Pro wi-fi module, performance gripper seat and seat cover, and bodywork replacement kit.

Motocross dealer centers will also stock a new clothing range, available alongside the new TF 250-X. The range, developed in partnership with Alpinestars, includes Motocross and Enduro boots and apparel.

New specialist Triumph Motocross and Enduro centers will be opening in Europe, Australia, and the USA from Spring 2024, with 300 expected by the end of 2024. These dedicated, fully trained, specialist off-road centers will offer sales, servicing, parts, clothing, and race support. Additionally, a unique 24/7 parts and accessories supply system will be available via the Triumph website, fully optimized for mobile, allowing riders to search for parts and place orders while at the track.

Triumph has also announced its involvement in the FIM Motocross World Championship for 2024, competing with a factory-supported program set up in partnership with Thierry Chizat-Suzzoni, one of the sport’s most experienced and successful team owners. The team will start its campaign with two of Triumph’s all-new 250cc 4-stroke MX bikes in the 2024 MX2 class, supported by a new sponsor, Monster Energy.

The commitment to racing success is further emphasized by the experienced team behind Triumph Racing, including Team Manager Vincent Bereni, who is leading a crew of highly experienced technical staff focused on bringing Triumph to the pinnacle of racing performance.

The TF 250-X will be priced from around $10,779 in the US and orders can be placed now at Triumph’s new motocross dealers, with delivery starting in Spring 2024. For more information or to find your local dealer, visit the Triumph website.

The announcement also hinted at the launch of the TR 450-X and the highly anticipated Enduro range from Triumph Motorcycles in 2024.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
Type Single Cylinder 4-Stroke DOHC
Capacity 249.95 cc
Bore 78 mm
Stroke 52.3 mm
Compression 14.4
System Dell’Orto EFI
Exhaust Single Silencer
Final Drive 13/48
Clutch Wet Multi-Plate Belleville Spring
Gearbox 5 Speed
CHASSIS
Frame Aluminium, Spine
Swingarm Aluminium Fabrication
Front Wheel 21″ x 1.6″
Rear Wheel 19″ x 1.85″
Front Tyre 80/100 – 21
Rear Tyre 100/90 – 19
Front Suspension KYB 48mm Coil Spring Fork, Compression/Rebound Adjustment, 310mm Travel
Rear Suspension KYB Coil, Compression Adjustment (H and L Speed), Rebound Adjustment, 305mm Travel
Front Brakes Brembo Twin 24mm Piston, 260mm Disc
Rear Brakes Brembo Single 26mm Piston, 220mm Disc
Instrument Display and Functions Hour Meter, Multifunction Switch Cubes
DIMENSIONS & WEIGHTS
Width Handlebars 836mm
Height Without Mirror 1270mm
Seat Height 960mm
Wheelbase 1492mm
Rake 27.4º
Trail 116mm
Wet Weight 104kg
Tank Capacity 7 L
News

Métisse McQueen Desert Racer: A Classic Recreation Limited to 300 Units

Métisse Motorcycles, a British brand specializing in frames and frame kits for British bike engines, has unveiled an intriguing new bike called the McQueen Desert Racer. Inspired by the legendary Steve McQueen, this bike is an exact replica of McQueen’s Metisse MK3, which he personally modified. Métisse Motorcycles plans to produce only 300 copies of this bike, each accompanied by an exclusive “Collection Certificate” that includes the bike’s registration number and an endorsement by the McQueen estate to verify its authenticity.

Métisse McQueen Desert Racer

Steve McQueen once praised the Métisse Motorcycles MK3 as the best handling bike he ever owned. The replica bikes offer a range of configuration options. While designed as a race replica, they can be road registered and equipped with a pillion seat, encouraging owners to ride them rather than just display them.

The Métisse Motorcycles McQueen Desert Racer retains its original form, powered by a reconditioned 650cc T6 Triumph engine. The engine is paired with a four-speed transmission, and features an Amal single carburetor. It is housed within a nickel-plated brazed 4130 chromoly frame.

For suspension, the bike is equipped with 35-millimeter Ceriani forks and BSA yokes, while the twin Girling reproduction rear suspension includes dampers and springs. The bike features seven-inch Triumph drum brakes at the front and weighs 135 kilograms when dry.

The bike can be road-legal with the addition of various accessories. A dual-saddle option with pillion footpegs is available, and the Road Pack includes a complete lighting setup, including a headlight, horn, indicators, taillight, and brake light. To purchase this replica, visit Métisse Motorcycles’ official website.

NewsNew

Hunter Lawrence to Compete in Premier Class for 2024 Season

Hunter Lawrence, the reigning 250SX East Region and Pro Motocross 250 Champion, will be moving up to the 450 class for the 2024 season. This official announcement from Team Honda HRC confirms that he will be riding the Honda CRF450RWE alongside his brother Jett starting in January.

Hunter Lawrence, the current champion in the 250SX East Region and 250 outdoor series, will be moving up to the Premier Class.

TORRANCE, Calif. (October 30, 2023) – Team Honda HRC has officially announced that Hunter Lawrence, a 24-year-old Australian rider, will be competing in the AMA Supercross, AMA Pro Motocross, and SuperMotocross series in the 450 class for the 2024 season. Hunter, who secured victories in the 250SX East Region and 250 outdoor series last season, will join his brother Jett Lawrence in campaigning the factory Honda CRF450RWE.

Hunter Lawrence, originally from Landsborough, Queensland, Australia, began his racing career in his home country and Europe before signing with American Honda’s Factory Connection satellite team for the 2019 season. He was later promoted to Team Honda HRC in 2021. Throughout his first two years with the factory squad, he achieved second and third place finishes in the indoor and outdoor series, respectively. However, in 2023, he secured championships in both series.

“I’m proud of my accomplishments in the 250 class, but I’m excited to move up to the premier class for 2024,” said Hunter Lawrence. “I believe that my riding style suits the CRF450RWE, and our off-season testing has been going well so far. I enjoyed competing against Jett in the 250 class before he moved up, and I look forward to doing it again now that we’re both on the big bikes. I have an exceptional team supporting me, and I can’t wait to get back in action at Anaheim 1.”

Brandon Wilson, the Manager of Racing and Experiential Marketing at American Honda, expressed his pleasure in promoting Hunter to the CRF450RWE. He mentioned that Hunter not only has a track record of achieving positive results but also brings a constructive and optimistic influence to the team. Wilson looks forward to seeing Hunter build on his success now that he is in the premier class.

Hunter Lawrence Career Highlights:

  • Birth Date: August 1, 1999
  • 2013: 2nd place in FIM 85 Junior World Championship
  • 2015: 3rd place in FIM 125 Junior World Championship; Australian 125 and 250 Junior Motocross Champion
  • 2017: 9th place in 2017 FIM MX2 final standings; MX2 winner at Motocross of Nations (Team Australia)
  • 2018: 3rd place in FIM MX2 final standings; 2nd place in MX2 at Motocross of Nations (Team Australia)
  • 2019: 10th place in AMA Pro Motocross 250 final standings
  • 2020: 13th place in AMA Pro Motocross 250 final standings
  • 2021: 2nd place in AMA Supercross 250SX West Region final standings; 3rd place in AMA Pro Motocross 250 final standings
  • 2022: 2nd place in AMA Supercross 250SX West Region final standings; 3rd place in AMA Pro Motocross 250 final standings; 2nd place in MX2 at Motocross of Nations (Team Australia)
  • 2023: AMA Pro Motocross 250 National Champion; AMA Supercross 250SX East Region Champion; 9th place in SuperMotocross 250 final standings; 2nd place in MX2 at Motocross of Nations (Team Australia)

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Motorsport

Porsche Sees Bold Chinese EV Designs as a Positive Development

There’s a relatively new company called Zeekr that is making waves in the electric vehicle (EV) industry. Owned by Geely, the same company that owns Volvo, Zeekr is known for its premium EVs with edgy and extravagant designs. This trend of pushing boundaries in vehicle design is not unique to Zeekr but is seen across many other Chinese brands as well.

Porsche, a renowned European automaker, sees this new design trend as a positive development in the industry. Michael Mauer, Porsche’s head of design, acknowledges that it is changing the game for the generally more conservative legacy automakers in Europe.

In a recent interview with Bloomberg, Mauer expressed his appreciation for the innovative approach of these Chinese startups. He believes that their lack of heritage allows them to think and do things differently, which ultimately leads to more open-minded decision-makers, such as the management board.

However, the challenge for legacy automakers like Volkswagen and Porsche is to successfully transition their iconic nameplates into the new era of personal mobility. They now face competition from new arrivals like Zeekr, Nio, Li Auto, Xpeng, and other Chinese companies. Mauer compares the process to throwing a stone into the future, where finding the right balance between innovation and staying true to the brand’s essence is essential.