Tag Archives: I’ve

KTM and Husqvarna Will Extend Your Warranty If You Start Going to the Dealership

I’ve been burned by each new and used vehicles, bikes, and powersport machines earlier than. Something at all times appears to go unsuitable—perhaps it is me and my wanton lack of mechanical empathy?—which is why I like having a very good guarantee for something I buy.

But not all warranties are created equal and KTM and Husqvarna need to lengthen their present fashions’ lifetimes with a particular guarantee extension program. There’s only one catch, you must begin going to the rattling dealership to get your providers accomplished. 

According to KTM, “By simply having a service performed at any authorized KTM dealer, riders can get extra coverage for their motorcycle courtesy of a new worldwide promotion. Additionally, the warranty period for KTM PowerParts and KTM SpareParts for ALL street models will be extended to 24 months. These warranty extensions are free of charge.”

As for Husky, the model acknowledged, “To extend the two-year warranty to four years, riders around the globe simply have to get their motorcycle serviced at an authorized Husqvarna Motorcycles dealer. Additionally, the warranty period for Husqvarna Motorcycles Spare Parts and Technical Accessories for all street models will be extended to 24 months. Best of all, these warranty extensions come at no additional charge.”

These extensions, nonetheless, solely cowl a choose set of bikes. For KTM, these fashions embrace all 2024 LC8c-equipped bikes (the KTM 790 Duke, KTM 790 Adventure, KTM 890 Adventure, KTM 890 Adventure R, KTM 890 Adventure R Rally, KTM 890 SMT and the brand new KTM 990 Duke), in addition to LC8 STREET and TRAVEL fashions (the KTM 1390 Super Duke R, KTM 1390 Super Duke R Evo, KTM 1290 Super Duke GT, KTM 1290 Super Adventure S and KTM 1290 Super Adventure R). 

Husky’s choices will embrace all 2024 Norden 901, Norden 901 Expedition and Svartpilen 801 fashions. 

Both manufacturers acknowledged that they “at all times advise [their] prospects to make use of the official networks to get their bikes serviced, purely as a result of the employees are skilled on these explicit fashions and use authorised elements and equipment the place relevant. This means [they] can guarantee the absolute best high quality and worth preservation of the bikes.”

These extensions additionally embrace every model’s spare elements and equipment, which is able to now carry. full 24-month guarantee from the date of buy. 

While I’d love for every model to supply these warranties to prior mannequin years, I get why they’d begin it with the 2024 fashions. These are going to be the simplest to provide a thread of guarantee work and inspection providers. Start contemporary, go from there. There’s additionally profit from getting your bike serviced at a dealership versus doing it your self or at an area storage, as if dealerships get a nasty rap, in addition they are way more skilled in your particular machine and that would lengthen the lifetime of your using.

But what do you all assume? Are you going to move to a seller together with your new KTM or Husky and take the manufacturers up on this promotion? Or are you simply going to maintain doing what you are doing? Sound off within the feedback under. 

Check Out Kawasaki’s Incredibly Rad, Fishing-Ready Ultra 160LX-S Angler Jet Ski

I’ve been fishing my total life. I feel I’ll have began earlier than I might even stroll. I additionally labored at Bass Pro Shops for a scorching second. It was not the place I assumed it was going to be, nonetheless…

What I like about fishing is similar factor I love about hunting, accessing the good open air and being alone with my ideas, whereas I try to work together with the animals round me. And what’s cool is how that interplay is being fostered by the powersports industry, as manufacturers start to cater to the out of doors searching and fishing crowd like myself. This is how we get Kawasaki’s new Ultra 160LX-S Angler jet ski, a dope-ass fishing rig that I actually wish to check out. 

The thought behind the Ultra 160LX-S Angler is a go-anywhere method, because the lithe hull and impossibly good maneuverability permit for anglers and sports activities fishermen alike to entry spots they seemingly would not be capable of entry in a standard fishing boat, i.e. shallow waters, tight tributaries, or far-off locales upstream.

I’m getting fever goals of taking one to Alaska for a fishing/searching expedition.

Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 160LX-S Angler
Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 160LX-S Angler
Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 160LX-S Angler

The Ultra 160LX-S Angler is powered by a 1,498cc inline-4 cylinder engine, which sends all the ability out the again by way of Kawasaki’s inside “oval-edged, three-blade, cast stainless steel impeller,” that is been designed for “optimal acceleration, high thrust efficiency, and low cavitation.” Likewise, the stainless steel blades “increase reliability and help prevent cavitation erosion,” whereas “the jet pump driveline is equipped with a large rubber coupling to absorb impact loads.”

Additionally, the Ultra 160LX-S Angler comes with “specially designed side floats” that make the entire craft that rather more steady, that means you would be preventing a tuna or sturgeon (relying in your salinity) and nonetheless be capable of land the monstrous fish. Moreover, a 22.5-degree deep-V hull affords additional stability in tough water. 

That’s all properly and good, however the thought behind is it expeditions, and in that area, the Ultra 160LX-S Angler has insane specs. 

Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 160LX-S Angler

According to Kawasaki, “The heart of the fishing prowess of the Jet Ski Ultra 160LX-S Angler is a Garmin® top-notch Echomap UHD2 7cv chartplotter.” This secondary unit is positioned close to the jet ski’s major TFT display, however “provides a clear and easily visible interface for seamless navigation and fish finding.” Likewise, rod holders come customary (one within the entrance, 4 within the rear), in addition to a two-piece bench seat makes fishing all that simpler, whereas additionally offering two riders entry to each side of the jet ski. 

Kawasaki additionally gave the Ultra 160LX-S Angler actually huge storage areas totalling some 44.5 gallons. That features a absolutely sealed 32.8-gallon storage compartment, in addition to a ten.6-gallon storage behind the place the reverse lever often is. Moreover, a 14.5-gallon cooler can also be a part of the bundle, that means you would spend some critical day trip within the subject and on the water. 

Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 160LX-S Angler
Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 160LX-S Angler
Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 160LX-S Angler

To that finish, a 21.1-gallon gas tank will guarantee any expedition is sweet to go. 

As for value, Kawasaki hasn’t but launched the value of the Ultra 160LX-S Angler jet ski, however with all of the equipment, it is certain to value a reasonably penny. But given these specs, I’m sorta considering will probably be price no matter Kawi asks. 

Because, actually, as I’ve been scripting this, I’ve been sorta shedding my thoughts dreaming up all the chances that the Ultra 160LX-S Angler would empower. The most feverish of all of them was the aforementioned journey to Alaska. I can image setting off for a 10-day backcountry fishing/searching expedition the place I come again with sufficient salmon and caribou to final a yr, plus the story of a lifetime as I make my means up some lonely river. 

Maybe there is a grizzly encounter? Maybe as a substitute of caribou, it is a moose I pack out? Whatever the case, I actually wish to go on an journey with this jet ski. 

Watch This Mustang Sketchily Ratchet-Strap Tow a Motorcycle

I’ve identified numerous yard engineers in my day. I’ll even be one myself.

But these wrenches of fortune all come extremely beneficial however all appear to additionally chuckle within the face of hazard—Ha ha ha ha. That’s to not say they don’t seem to be good at what they do.

There is, nonetheless, a degree of redneck engineering that makes each sketchy DIY job be put to disgrace and, people, that is a kind of instances. 

What we have now right here is somebody that want to maneuver their motorbike. But they do not have a motorbike trailer. Likewise, they do not have a truck to both load a motorcycle into or connect a U-Haul trailer to. All they’ve is a modified Ford Mustang, a ratchet strap, and a few hopes and desires. Madre de Dios. 

Take a glance.

Listen, I do not assume I’ve to inform you that you simply should not do that at house. But I’m fascinated by how they made it work. Well, seemingly work. We do not know in the event that they made it to their last vacation spot or brought about somebody to fulfill their “Final Destination 2” or whichever one was with the logging truck that brought about a lot millennial PTSD. 

From what I can see, although, it is fairly effectively locked in and is not shifting all that a lot. For one thing with stretch—as is the case with a ratchet strap—I’m impressed. Horrified, positive, but additionally impressed. 

They additionally managed to get the entrance tire up off the pavement, which might’ve completely brought about a ton of points had it been touching. I don’t know how they did this, however like, I’m surprised at how good this appears to work.

Again, do not do that at house. Trailers aren’t that costly and a pal to drive your automotive when you experience a motorcycle someplace is cheaper than inflicting the calamitous accident awaiting this setup will likely be.

But wow, I am unable to imagine this labored…

Aprilia RS457 Production Begins In Piaggio’s Factory In Baramati India

We’re massive followers of small-displacement bikes, particularly these of the sporty selection. Personally, I’ve had various expertise with small, sporty bikes, similar to KTM’s 390 sequence, Kawasaki’s Ninja 400, and way more lately, CFMoto’s punchy 450 vary. That stated, when Aprilia unveiled the RS 457 in all its glory final 12 months at EICMA, my curiosity was greater than piqued.

The Aprilia RS 457 stands as a primary for the Noale producer for fairly a couple of causes. For starters, it’s the model’s first international market mannequin within the entry-level displacement phase. Set to lock horns with established gamers just like the KTM RC 390, Ninja 400, and CFMoto 450 SS, the RS 457 – on paper, at the least – seems to be essentially the most promising. Apart from that, it’s additionally essentially the most premium mannequin to be produced in Piaggio’s manufacturing unit in Baramati, India.

Aprilia RS457 Production Begins In Piaggio’s Factory In Baramati India

Speaking of which, Aprilia lately introduced that manufacturing of the all-new sportbike has already begun in Piaggio’s Baramati plant. Built to world-class requirements, the power employs largely girls, and options state-of-the artwork meeting traces to make sure most high quality. The Aprilia RS 457 was formally launched in India on December 8, 2023, in the course of the India Bike Week, and pre-orders for the brand new sportbike have now been opened. Assuming every part goes in line with plan, the primary batch of RS 457s ought to start making their approach to keen prospects by March 2024.

For reference, the Aprilia RS 457 will carry a sticker worth of Rs 410,000, or about $4,936 USD in India. Stateside, prospects should fork up $6,799 USD for the bottom mannequin, which is properly and good contemplating import taxes and different costs thrown into the combo. Nevertheless, it’s a premium possibility within the entry-level market irrespective of the place you’re from, because it’s considerably pricier than its contemporaries.

2024 Aprilia RS 457 - Track 3
2024 Aprilia RS 457 - Maverick
2024 Aprilia RS 457 - Track

In case you missed the specs of the RS 457 in a few of our previous articles, right here’s a fast rundown of what to anticipate from the beginner-friendly supersport. It’s powered by an all-new 457cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, parallel-twin engine with a 270-degree crank configuration. This supplies the bike with the texture and exhaust notice of a 90-degree V-twin, and with 47 horsepower and 43.5 Nm (32.2 pound-feet) of torque on faucet, has loads of energy to offer a spirited experience on twisty roads.

As for the suspension, Aprilia provides the RS 457 with inverted entrance forks and a rear monoshock with primary preload adjustability. It additionally will get a single entrance disc and single rear disc, each outfitted with dual-channel ABS. Rounding up the bike’s tech bundle is a full-color TFT show from which riders can select from three experience modes and toggle the traction management system.

Our favorite automobiles of 2023: Peugeot 205 GTi Tolman Edition

Is ‘restomod fatigue’ a factor? I’m unsure, however whether it is, then I’ve definitely been affected by one thing prefer it over the previous yr or so.

The early exponents of this updating artwork have been pretty easy of their strategy, serving up a sharper driving expertise whereas retaining the donor automobile’s retro appears to be like and character.

Yet just lately the scene seems to have modified, the emphasis shifting to outlandish money-no-object initiatives that seemingly obliterate the unique machine’s character in pursuit of the coffee-run (ugh!) bragging rights of a well-heeled few.

However, the Tolman 205 GTi proved that it doesn’t must be this fashion.

For starters, it truly appears to be like just like the automobile it’s primarily based on, to the purpose that even eager lion lovers will most likely dismiss it as a inventory instance, albeit a fantastically saved one.

And whereas the period-perfect exterior and inside disguise some closely modded mechanicals, not one of the many modifications dilutes the quick French hatch’s core enchantment.

James Disdale driving Tolman Peugeot 205 GTi

If you’ve pushed a 205 beforehand, then a blast within the Tolman will convey joyful reminiscences, and in case you haven’t, then you definately’ll quickly perceive what the fuss was about.

Yes, it’s sooner than the outdated automobile (a bespoke 200bhp twin-cam 16-valve 1.9-litre motor sees to that) however the razor-sharp throttle response and traditional hot hatch big-engine-in-a-small-car vibe stay intact.

And whereas there’s a welcome injection of precision, management and braking energy, the Tolman handles with the identical old-school Gallic aptitude as the unique, its acrobatic agility, fluid journey and limitless throttle adjustability serving up engagement and leisure no matter pace or circumstance.

Who’ll Win In A Hill Climb Race – A Hilux Rally Car Or Sherco Enduro Bike?

I’m a giant fan of off-road motorsports. Growing up watching WRC, Dakar Rally, and enduro, I’ve all the time imagined what it will be prefer to drive a thoroughbred rally automobile, or experience a top-tier enduro bike via a number of the world’s most grueling off-road programs. Needless to say, my model selections in the case of the automobiles in my storage are clearly influenced by these of motorsport, as I’ve owned a number of KTMs up to now.

Speaking of which, Toyota’s been making it fairly huge within the rally world lately, with the Hilux Rally Car proving to be a extremely profitable machine. The pickup truck-based rally racer received the FIA world cup in 2016, 2017, and 2021, in addition to the Dakar Rally in 2019, 2022, and 2023. This inevitably performed a job in my resolution in shopping for my most up-to-date every day driver, a 2023 Toyota Hilux. Yes, I do know, my pickup truck has nothing to do with the Hilux Dakar from a technical viewpoint, however hey, it’s additionally carrying a Toyota badge. I slapped on a set of aftermarket wheels resembling these of the Hilux Dakar, too, simply to provide it a contact of rally.

Who’ll Win In A Hill Climb Race – A Hilux Rally Car Or Sherco Enduro Bike?

My private Toyota Hilux which I typically think about as a Dakar Rally automobile.

So sure, I’m a Toyota fanboy, and on the identical time, an off-road moto junkie. As such, I couldn’t assist however get all excited once I noticed this video of a Toyota Hilux Dakar going face to face in a hill climb race towards a Sherco laborious enduro bike. Posted by none apart from Red Bull Motorsports themselves, the video was set within the Sani Pass, located on the border of South Africa and Lesotho. The cross is in no way a stroll within the park, because it’s not paved in any means in any respect. That stated, it’s in terrain like this that the Hilux Dakar and the Sherco 300SE Factory each shine the brightest.

The Sherco 300 was piloted by seven-time Roof of Africa winner Wade Young, whereas the Toyota Hilux Rally Car was pushed by Dakar veteran Giniel De Villiers. The race was to be a time assault, with every of the automobiles rocketing up Sani Pass one after the other towards the clock. To elevate the stakes even additional, the loser must pay for a spherical of drinks, whereas ingesting a shoey from the winner’s boot. So, who was going to be topped the Victor? The Sherco or the Hilux?

Who’ll Win In A Hill Climb Race – A Hilux Rally Car Or Sherco Enduro Bike?

The actual Hilux Dakar which is clearly a totally totally different automobile.

The Sherco was first to do the run, with Wade Young launching laborious from the place to begin. We’re handled to a cacophony of two-stroke goodness because the bike works its approach to the highest of the cross, tackling hairpins, unfastened gravel, numerous rocks, all whereas throwing a bunch of smoke in its wake. After the four-kilometer stretch was over, the Sherco clocked in a formidable time of 4 minutes and 4 seconds.

Up subsequent, the Hilux. Its twin-turbo V6 sang its tune all the way in which to the highest, accompanied by epic slides and plenty and many mud. The long-travel suspension soaked up all of the rocks and ruts, making it seem like the Hilux was driving on easy, paved roads. At the top of all of it, Giniel De Villiers made it to the highest in a blistering three minutes and 45 seconds.

Who’ll Win In A Hill Climb Race – A Hilux Rally Car Or Sherco Enduro Bike?

After all was stated and performed, is it actually a shock that the Hilux took the win? After all, it has 356 horsepower and 457 pound-feet of torque, and to not point out chunky tires and four-wheel-drive at its disposal. If something, Wade Young’s spectacular four-minute run simply goes to point out how a lot talent the dude has, on condition that he’s packing a fraction of the ability and traction of the Hilux.

2024 Honda CBR500R Gets Updated To Look More Like Its Bigger Sibling

I’ve always seen the Honda CBR500R as somewhat different in the world of beginner-friendly sportbikes. While bikes like the Kawasaki Ninja 400 and Yamaha YZF-R3 usually get the spotlight among first-timers, there’s no denying that there’s quite a lot to love about Honda’s 500cc supersport-inspired machine. For 2024, the CBR500R is better than ever before. Let’s take a closer look.

2024 Honda CBR500R

Now, you may have noticed my careful selection of words with “supersport-inspired.” This is because the CBR500R isn’t really a supersport, but rather, a sportbike that imitates the aggressive styling of Honda’s true supersport, the CBR1000RR. For the 2024 model-year, this is more evident than ever before, as the bike receives new, aggressively styled bodywork inspired by the liter bike. The updates for the 2024 model-year focus more on styling and tech, as the CBR500R received major updates to its brakes and suspension in the 2022 model-year.

Diving straight into the tech updates, the 2024 CBR500R boasts a new TFT display measuring a generous five inches. The display can be toggled via an easily accessible switchgear on the left side handlebar. Meanwhile, smartphone integration has been thrown in the mix, with Honda’s RoadSync app offering automatic connection and enhanced adjustability and connectivity for the rider.

2024 Honda CBR500R
2024 Honda CBR500R

On the performance end, Honda’s CBR500R relies on the tried and tested 471cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, parallel-twin engine with the same old 180-degree crankshaft. Criticized for its boring sound and character, the engine does, in fairness, have a very linear and approachable power band, and presents itself as an approachable powerplant for both beginner and intermediate riders. Honda says that the addition of updated PGM-FI technology translates into improved efficiency and performance, while a silent cam chain and reduced friction elements keep the engine running smoothly and more quietly.

To keep the bike’s already docile performance on tap, Honda has thrown in HSTC (Honda Selectable Torque Control), which is really just a fancy way of naming traction control. There’s also a slipper clutch thrown into the mix, so riders have a much more forgiving experience should they struggle to perform smooth downshifts.

2024 Honda CBR500R

How can we solve the problem of poor roundabout etiquette?

I believe that those who exit a roundabout without signaling should face severe consequences.

In the past few weeks, I have encountered several instances where a car approaching from my right suddenly takes an exit without indicating, leaving me frustrated and annoyed. It is incredibly disrespectful and infuriating.

Personally, I am not one for seeking revenge, but if someone else could administer the punishment, that would be great.

There is a saying about someone not making any effort to help others. Well, this is a perfect example of that. These drivers refuse to lift a finger or tap their indicator, even when they could clearly see my raised fingers signaling my disappointment.

It is disheartening to see how lazy and thoughtless these drivers can be. The act of using an indicator requires minimal effort and should be considered essential.

Furthermore, what could be so important that they cannot spare a thought for indicating? Are they really so occupied with listening to trivial radio conversations or engaging in pointless debates?

I probably should not make a big deal out of this. Waiting at roundabouts is not a major inconvenience in and of itself. I have definitely spent more time trying to spell ‘maneuver’ correctly than waiting unnecessarily at roundabouts. Nevertheless, time is incredibly valuable.

Let’s assume that each instance of waiting costs me an average of five seconds per week. Other people taking forever to board planes with their oversized luggage probably delays my journeys by more than that. But even five seconds per week adds up to four minutes and 20 seconds over a year.

Considering that I will probably continue driving for another 50 years, that amounts to over three and a half hours of waiting at roundabouts for clueless drivers who can’t be bothered to use their indicators.

New Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 Announced For Sporty Riders

I’m a giant fan of the Bridgestone Battlax vary of tires. I’ve had almost all of them on my bikes at one level, and I’m at the moment operating the Battlax S22 on my bike, and evidently, it’s one in all my favourite tires on the market. For 2024, Bridgestone is out to make us sportbike and bare bike riders even happier, because it has simply introduced the brand new Battlax Hypersport S23.

As the title suggests, the Battlax Hypersport S23 is the evolution of the Battlax S22, and guarantees to ship the whole lot we love concerning the S22, however even higher. According to Bridgestone, the brand new Battlax S23 provides varied efficiency enhancements over its predecessor, however stays to be a tire designed for sporty driving on asphalt. Being categorized as a hypersport tire, the Battlax S23 has to have the ability to put as much as rigorous circumstances each on the road and on the observe. Bridestone guarantees this with newly designed compounds for improved grip when cornering in any respect angles.

New Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 Announced For Sporty Riders

Meanwhile, on the road, the identical newly designed compounds are answerable for making certain assured traction on each moist and dry surfaces. Like the earlier S22, the brand new Battlax Hypersport S23 additionally makes use of a multi-compound building, however now, the outer compound guarantees even higher grip, offering a extra confidence-inspiring experience when tackling sharp corners. Bridgestone’s Pulse Groove Technology additionally ensures enhanced stability and traction in less-than-ideal street circumstances, giving the S23 additional mileage and longevity.

Now, all this data appears fairly thrilling, and certainly, it’s. However, we are able to’t actually say for sure till we get to attempt these new tires ourselves. Bridgestone says that they’ll be obtainable by January, 2024. Additionally, the brand new tires cater to all customary sportbike sizes, with a single 120/70ZR17 dimension for the entrance tire, and 5 sizes for the rear tire. These encompass 160/60ZR17, 180/55/ZR17, 190/50ZR17, 190/55ZR17, and 200/55ZR17.

Industry digest: The real cost of the skills gaps in your business

Recently, I have had insightful discussions with senior executives in the automotive and mobility sector regarding the skills gaps. Most people acknowledge that there is a cost associated with addressing their skills needs. Many have assessed the current and future shortages within their organizations. However, as time passes, the situation is becoming critical and is now being recognized as a financial risk at the board level.

Last year, we conducted interviews with 44 senior leaders across different areas of the sector, including R&D, supply chain, manufacturers, and retailers, to identify the missing skills. We then created a roadmap to help businesses navigate through this crisis. Later this month, we will release a follow-up report that examines the cost implications of this skills gap.

The main questions that businesses are currently facing include the actual cost of the skills gap, the benefits of addressing the situation, and the consequences of doing nothing about it. It is important to note that the capability to address these issues varies depending on the company size, maturity, and sector within the industry. Some companies may not have the time and resources to dedicate to this, while others do. Additionally, certain areas of the business are easier to quantify in terms of cost than others.

For example, in the retail sector, the revenue lost for each day that a technician is absent is easily measurable. However, in other areas of the business where a role involves multiple variables, it becomes challenging to determine the value of a team member who is responsible for several projects.

How much are businesses spending on short-term solutions that temporarily fill the gaps while they search for permanent solutions? Temporary workers from agencies without industry knowledge may be hired, with no investment in their training as they are expected to move on. Furthermore, there is a reliance on the goodwill of the current workforce. They are asked to work longer hours, take on additional responsibilities, and compensate for the missing skills. This places both physical and mental strain on employees, potentially leading to burnout, lack of morale, and an increased risk of employees leaving, thereby exacerbating the problem at hand.

Short-term options may seem like the only choice when there are project deadlines to meet. However, it is crucial to find a sustainable long-term solution to avoid higher costs and other compromises.

Navigating this situation is complex no matter how you approach it. That is why we have focused our research on speaking with 42 business leaders in the automotive and mobility industry to quantify the risk. Our model will provide a range of figures to demonstrate the financial benefits and opportunities of investing in skills while also highlighting the potential drawbacks and risks of failing to do so.