Have you heard of SOCA? Well, now you have and let me tell you more about them. A few of us were approached by a new distributor, and let’s just say that they’re quite crazy when it comes to Vespas.
The distributor and the brand themselves are quite fanatic when it comes to Vespa scooters. Hailing from Indonesia, SOCA is a brand that was born out of a passion for Vespa, a certain lifestyle, and the craving to create parts that are a visual expression of performance and passion, akin to the very scooters that SOCA designs for.
When it comes to vision, the brand is more than just parts and accessories. Given that owning and riding a Vespa is a lifestyle, the brand caters to more than just the odd mod that you may find sitting pretty at the shop. SOCA’s products are expressions of Vespa riders’ passion for riding in style, and they’re meticulously designed and provide seamless and eye-catching interaction with Vespa scooters—as the brand has mentioned in its press materials.
SOCA’s selection of parts offers enthusiasts a break from the norm, namely from the likes of popular Polini—to name one out of a few dozen popular marques. However, other than the odd mirror blanking screw, the product line extends to 12-inch Cast Alloy Rims, a Ducktail, Sportscreen, and—yes—mirror hole covers to name a few.
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The brand got its start in Indonesia, and the name “SOCA” is derived from the Sudanese dialect of its home country, translated roughly, it means “eye.” SOCA is already a worldwide brand, and it enjoys widespread availability in Europe, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam (where Vespas are born), and most recently: The Philippines.
SOCA has recently expanded to another territory, and its products are not only unique and indicative of the brand’s personality but also of quality, with industrial-grade materials and techniques being employed for every part that’ll find a home on a Vespa scooter.
There are a number of interesting items to note, namely the SOCA Ducktail. While I know it’s rather pointless on a Vespa, unique and eye-catching it still is, and perhaps we could see more of the brand in the near future, perhaps further west.
The 1960s was a transformative decade in many ways, and it was no different for the world of motorcycles. While British manufacturers were losing ground to the rising influence of Japanese motorcycles, the 1960s still produced some iconic bikes that are remembered fondly today. This article takes a look at 15 such motorcycles from the 1960s that made an impact on the industry and continue to be celebrated.
Updated July 2023: This article will be periodically updated to include any interesting, classic models from the 1960s that may have been missed.
Motorcycle standing in front of brick wall facing right.
The Triumph Bonneville T120 is often considered the most iconic motorcycle of the 1960s. It built upon the reputation of its predecessor, the original Speed Twin from 1938, under the guidance of Edward Turner. Known for its style and performance, the Bonneville became synonymous with motorcycling in the 1960s. While it wasn’t the best handling bike, it was fast and attractive, leading to the development of the Triton café racer – a combination of a Triumph engine with a Norton ‘Featherbed’ frame. The Bonneville name was inspired by Johnny Allen’s record-breaking runs at the Bonneville Salt Flats in a Triumph-engined streamliner in 1956.
Vintage scooter in front of an industrial area, facing right.
If British motorcycles were associated with Café Racer and Rocker culture, the Vespa Allstate Cruisaire was the epitome of the opposite lifestyle embraced by the Mods. These riders preferred scooters over motorcycles, and Vespa was the go-to brand for them. The Allstate Cruisaire was Piaggio’s attempt to break into the American market. Sold exclusively by Sears, this Vespa model became popular all around the world and is still recognized for its stylish design and practicality.
131961 Honda CB77
Mecum
Honda CB77 Super Hawk in red
The Japanese motorcycle manufacturers, particularly Honda, had a significant impact on the industry in the 1960s. The Honda CB77, also known as the Super Hawk, was a prime example of this influence. With its twin-cylinder, 305cc engine producing 28 horsepower, the CB77 offered exceptional performance and reliability. The introduction of a tubular steel frame improved the bike’s stability and allowed it to reach speeds of 100 mph, on par with larger British motorcycles. The CB77 was a testament to the changing tides in the motorcycle industry, as Japanese manufacturers began to challenge the dominance of British motorcycles.
121961 Harley-Davidson Sprint C
Dmitry Pavlovsky
Classic motorcycle in museum.
The Harley-Davidson Sprint C was an interesting addition to this list. It wasn’t necessarily a groundbreaking or iconic motorcycle, but it represented a significant shift for Harley-Davidson. In the 1960s, the American motorcycle manufacturer faced tough competition from Japanese manufacturers in the lightweight motorcycle segment. Instead of investing in new designs and development, Harley-Davidson decided to import and re-brand an existing motorcycle. The Sprint C was an Aermacchi motorcycle that was re-badged and sold by Harley-Davidson. While it didn’t have the same level of success as its Japanese counterparts, this move showed that Harley-Davidson was willing to adapt to changing market dynamics.
The Ducati Scrambler was a response to the demand for road-going scrambler-style motorcycles. The Berliner Corporation, a U.S. distributor, recognized this market and convinced Ducati to build a road-going scrambler model. The resulting Ducati Scrambler, based on the Diana model, offered both 250cc and 350cc versions. It featured a bevel-drive single-cylinder engine and became massively popular in the U.S. market. While it wasn’t a dedicated off-road model, the Scrambler played a significant role in Ducati’s success in the U.S. and set the stage for the brand’s future achievements in the 1970s and beyond.
101963 BSA Gold Star
bringatrailer.com
Vintage motorcycle parked in front of windows, facing right.
The BSA Gold Star had a long history before the 1960s, but it was in 1963 that this British icon came to an end. Outdated technology and discontinued parts contributed to BSA’s decision to discontinue the Gold Star. However, its timeless design and vintage character make it a popular choice for motorcycle enthusiasts looking for classic rides. The Gold Star’s reputation for British charm and quality craftsmanship lives on.
The Ducati Mach 1 was a powerful single-cylinder motorcycle that became popular for its performance. With its 27.5 horsepower, the Mach 1 was the fastest 250cc road motorcycle of its time, reaching top speeds of just over 100 mph. It was equipped with all the features that enthusiasts of the era desired, including clip-on handlebars, rear set foot pegs, a racing single seat, and excellent performance and braking capabilities. The Mach 1’s success was further solidified by its victory at the Isle of Man TT races in 1969.
Rolls-Royce, known for its luxurious vehicles, has embraced the electric vehicle (EV) industry with its first-ever all-electric production model, the Spectre. After 155 million miles of testing and 400 million simulated years of use, the 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre was unveiled at the 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed. The performance demonstrated the impressive capabilities of the Spectre as an EV. It effortlessly and quietly maneuvered through the corners of the Goodwood hill, showcasing the brand’s transition towards electric vehicles. The CEO of Rolls-Royce, Torsten-Ötvös, has confirmed that the company will only produce electric vehicles by 2030. The Spectre is set to be launched in Q4 of 2023, offering consumers a glimpse into Rolls-Royce’s electric future.
According to Ötvös, the Spectre is the culmination of Rolls-Royce’s vision for electric powertrains, which was first conceived 123 years ago.
The Rolls-Royce Spectre boasts impressive specifications for an electric vehicle. It features a dual-motor setup, producing 557 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque. The estimated electric range is 260 miles, and it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds, with a top speed of 155 mph.
Despite its luxurious features, the Rolls-Royce Spectre has a relatively low price of $440,000 compared to its gasoline-powered counterparts. The vehicle retains its traditional and chiseled appearance, with a notable Pantheon Grille adorned with 22 LED lights and the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy Figurine. The Spectre is also the most aerodynamic Rolls-Royce ever made, with a drag coefficient of 0.25. Its low center of gravity, achieved through the battery’s strategic placement, enhances the smooth driving experience.
Rolls-Royce has implemented strict conditions for the sale of the Spectre to deter car flipping, a practice where limited or highly sought-after vehicles are resold at inflated prices. The company has blacklisted individuals engaging in this practice, ensuring that they will be unable to purchase a Rolls-Royce in the future.
The 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed showcased a wide range of innovative EVs, including the MG Cyberster, MG4 XPower, Lamborghini SC63, Renault R5 Turbo 3E, and Kia EV9. These vehicles represent the industry’s commitment to electrification and innovation in the automotive market.
The LiveWire S2 Del Mar is Harley-Davidson’s first bike from the LiveWire division that can receive additional features through over-the-air (OTA) software updates. The bike already comes with features such as mobile app pairing, horn and light controls, and event detection. The companion app provides conveniences such as weather information, navigation assistance, ride history, user manual, and a wallet system to store driving license and insurance documents.
The S2 Del Mar is a “performance-oriented” low-rider with a seat height of 30.9 inches and a ground clearance of 6.5 inches. It is equipped with custom 19-inch Dunlop DT-1 tires and braking is handled by Brembo Caliper units with 4-piston and 1-piston configurations for the front and rear, respectively.
For safety, the LiveWire S2 Del Mar features a drag torque slip control system, cornering enhanced traction control (C-TCS), and antilock braking (C-ABS) systems. It is available in three colors: asphalt black, nightfall blue, and nimbus grey. Reservations can be made on LiveWire’s official website with a $100 deposit. If you are seeking better specifications, the LiveWire One offers 146 miles of city range, faster DC fast charging, and a more aggressive appearance for a price of $22,799.
Motor1.com regularly shares spy shots of upcoming vehicles, offering a glimpse of what’s to come. Stay up-to-date with this list of development vehicles captured in the past week.
One intriguing find is the test mule for the Aston Martin Valour. Soon after receiving these spy shots, it was confirmed that only 110 of these cars will be produced. They are equipped with a powerful twin-turbo 5.2-liter V12 engine that generates 705 horsepower and 555 pound-feet of torque. The Valour also features a six-speed manual transmission, rear-wheel drive with a limited-slip differential, adaptive dampers, and carbon-ceramic brakes.
BMW Motorrad Motorsport is undergoing a new and expanded structure to position itself for the future. Under the leadership of BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director Marc Bongers, the roles of Technical Director and Head of Customer Racing have been established. Christian Gonschor is now the Technical Director, while Uwe Geyer takes on the role of Head of Customer Racing in addition to his position as Head of Marketing. Both Gonschor and Geyer report directly to Bongers. BMW Motorrad Motorsport has also created specialized teams, including an independent test team. The Development and Test departments in Munich and Berlin are being expanded, and the synergies between BMW Motorrad Motorsport and the production development of the BMW M 1000 RR are being fully utilized.
Dr. Markus Schramm, Head of BMW Motorrad, states that the new structure optimizes the development and test work for works projects and customer racing. This allows for increased capacities in Munich and the engine plant in Berlin, strengthening the development and test work for the FIM Superbike World Championship, FIM Endurance World Championship, and Customer Racing program. The connection to production development has also been intensified under the leadership of Christoph Lischka. Schramm expresses confidence in the reforms, believing that BMW Motorrad Motorsport is well-positioned for the future.
Christian Gonschor, as the Technical Director, is responsible for optimizing the technical organization of development and test work at BMW Motorrad Motorsport. This involves the formation of specialized teams for various areas such as the test team, chassis, engine, electronics, and aerodynamics. These teams primarily operate in Munich, where they have dedicated workshops, test and development motorcycles, testbeds, and wind tunnels for developing and testing the BMW M 1000 RR and new racing components. Collaboration with the BMW Motorrad plant in Berlin is essential for engine-related work. The capacities for internal development and test work will be increased in both Munich and Berlin. The close proximity between BMW Motorrad Motorsport and the production development department of the BMW M 1000 RR allows for optimal utilization of synergies.
BMW Motorrad Motorsport has established a separate test team that focuses solely on test work at the racetrack, independent of race outings. This team will have a dedicated pool of test riders and primarily work on the WorldSBK project. However, the creation of new motor racing components will benefit the entire motorsport department in the future.
Customer Racing is considered a fundamental pillar of BMW Motorrad’s motorsport activities alongside their works involvement in the FIM Superbike World Championship and FIM Endurance World Championship. Uwe Geyer is now responsible for Customer Racing as the Head of BMW Motorrad Customer Racing in addition to his role as Marketing Director. Customer Racing projects are developed for BMW riders worldwide, including those who compete in the Supersport segment professionally, semi-professionally, or as a hobby. The race package offered by BMW Motorrad is developed at the highest level of production-based motorsport in the Superbike World Championship and adapted to meet local Superbike series regulations. Parts for customers, including engines, are available directly through BMW Motorrad Motorsport or via distribution partner alpha Racing. The optimization of parts planning, production, and delivery times is part of the future plans. BMW Motorrad Race Support provides support in electronics for Customer Racing, and BMW Motorrad will continue investing in this area.
Starting August 2023, Dominic Thönnes will replace Benedikt Torka as Spokesperson for BMW Motorrad Motorsport.
Ninth Passat generation will be larger, more comfortable and of even higher quality
MQB evo – a new evolutionary stage of the modular transverse matrix uses a plug-in hybrid drive for purely electric ranges of up to 100 kilometres.
More comfort on long journeys thanks to high quality, new ergoActive seats, new adaptive chassis control
New cockpit and infotainment generation for intuitive and clear operation
The all-new Passat Variant will celebrate its world premiere at the end of August and Volkswagen is now publishing the first advance details of the next Passat generation. The new model is equipped with a host of innovations such as an intuitive display and operating concept, a high-quality interior, a new adaptive chassis control system, premium-class seats and plug-in hybrid drives with electric ranges of up to 100 kilometres. The all-new Passat Variant will be launched in the first quarter of 2024. It is the ninth generation of one of the world’s most successful mid-sized cars, with over 50 years of history and more than 30 million units sold.
When designing the all-new Passat Variant, Volkswagen fully exploited the potential of the modular transverse matrix in its new development stage – MQB evo for short. Kai Grünitz, Member of the Brand Board of Management responsible for Development: “With the all-new Passat, we have placed great importance on high ride and travel comfort that customers will feel immediately. Among other things, this is ensured by the longer wheelbase and the new adaptive chassis control with two-valve shock absorbers. At the same time, our new display and operating concept is very intuitive. Climate-controlled massage seats illustrate our premium standard in the interior.”
Interior architecture has been redesigned based on a new concept. Thanks to high-grade materials and effective noise insulation, the overall quality and comfort are taken to a new level. ergoActive front seats will be available as an option. These feature electrical adjustment (up to 14-way, depending on model and equipment) as well as differently configured massage and air conditioning functions.
New display and operating concept. The new interior architecture of the Passat Variant systematically implements feedback from Volkswagen customers with the goal of making operation as intuitive as possible. The Passat Variant will therefore be launched with a newly developed cockpit and new infotainment system. The new standard infotainment display measures 32 cm (12.9 inches). There will also be a new 38 cm (15-inch) display as an option or depending on equipment. Backlit touch sliders are located underneath the infotainment system display and are used to adjust functions such as the interior temperature and volume. Volkswagen will also optionally offer a new head-up display that projects the information onto the windscreen and thus into the virtual space in front of the vehicle. In addition, the multifunction steering wheel has buttons again – to make operation even easier.
More space in the rear. The all-new Passat Variant is much larger than its predecessor. The new length (14 centimetres more) increases legroom by another 5 centimetres. The luggage compartment capacity is also increased by 40 litres to 690 litres (when loaded up to the height of the rear seat backrests), and even by 140 litres to 1920 litres when the rear bench seat is folded down.
New DCC Pro and integration of the Vehicle Dynamics Manager. Numerous individual measures improve the running gear of the new model: increased camber stiffness and greater lateral force steering of the four-link rear axle (increased rear axle stability and thus increased driving safety), a new electromechanical steering setup, modified anti-roll bars and shock absorbers, and adaptations for different wheel rims. The more direct steering ratio and longer wheelbase of the Passat Variant have an additional positive effect on the driving characteristics.
Volkswagen also offers a further developed generation of the adaptive chassis control for its bestseller: the optional DCC Pro with two-valve shock absorbers. This system continuously reacts to the road surface and driving situation while taking into account parameters such as steering, braking and acceleration manoeuvres. The ideal damping is calculated for each wheel and adjusted at the shock absorbers in fractions of a second. The driver has the option of adjusting the DCC to suit individual preferences – from very comfortable to very sporty. In other words: more comfort and more dynamics.
A Vehicle Dynamics Manager is also part of the standard equipment – an MQB system that celebrated its debut in the current Golf GTI. The system controls the functions of the electronic differential locks (XDS) and the lateral dynamics components of the controlled shock absorbers in the DCC Pro system. Thanks to the Vehicle Dynamics Manager, handling is made more neutral, stable, agile and precise by wheel-specific brake interventions and wheel-selective adjustment of the shock absorber hardness.
For powerful illumination of the road. In its premium specification packages, the Passat Variant will be offered with a new generation of IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights. These powerful headlights are flatter than the previous version and have a new high-performance main beam with a range of around 500 metres. At the rear, the new model has a continuous horizontal LED strip for the tail light clusters.
TDI, TSI, eTSI and eHybrid. Thanks to MQB evo, different drive types are possible for the all-new Passat Variant. It will be offered with turbodiesel engines (TDI), turbocharged petrol engines (TSI), mild hybrid turbocharged petrol engines (eTSI) and plug-in hybrid systems (eHybrid). The electric range of the new plug-in hybrid drives has been increased to up to 100 kilometres compared with the predecessors, depending on equipment. In addition, AC charging will be faster in all eHybrid versions, and DC charging will also be possible as standard for the first time.
MV Agusta has unveiled its latest creation, the MV Agusta Dragster RR SCS America Special Edition. This bike is a tribute to the original America model that was introduced by MV Agusta in 1975. Although the name is a reference, the new special edition bike features many advanced technological upgrades.
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MV Agusta Dragster RR SCS America Special Edition Equipment
In 2023, the MV Agusta Dragster RR SCS America Special Edition features a liquid-cooled, four-stroke, 12-valve, 798cc triple engine. It offers 140 horsepower at 12,300 rpm and 87 newton-meters of torque at 12,800 rpm. The bike is equipped with a six-speed transmission and MV’s Smart Clutch System (SCS) 3.0, which is an automatic clutch.
The suspension includes an upside-down Marzocchi fully adjustable front fork and a fully adjustable progressive Sachs monoshock unit in the rear. The brakes are provided by Brembo, with radial four-piston calipers and floating discs in the front, and a two-piston caliper and disc in the rear. The bike also features Continental ABS with rear wheel lift-up mitigation and cornering functionality.
The MV Agusta Dragster RR SCS America Special Edition rides on 17-inch alloy wheels and has a carbon fiber cover for the rear wheel. The bike is adorned with red, white, and blue livery throughout.
The dry weight of the bike is 385.80 pounds, but it can be reduced to 368.17 pounds with the optional Special Parts full exhaust intended for track use only.
1975 MV Agusta 750S America Equipment
The original 1975 MV Agusta 750S America was equipped with an air-cooled, 789cc inline four-cylinder engine that produced 75 horsepower. It had a five-speed gearbox and a shaft final drive. The suspension utilized Ceriani components, and the brakes consisted of a dual disc setup in the front and an SLS drum in the rear. The dry weight of the bike was 517 pounds.
When it was released, the 1975 MV Agusta 750S America had a price tag of $6,000, which is equivalent to about $35,024 today.
Pricing and Availability of the Dragster RR SCS America Special Edition
The MV Agusta Dragster RR SCS America Special Edition starts at $28,247. Only 300 of these bikes will be manufactured and sold, so interested buyers should contact their local MV Agusta dealer in the US as soon as possible.
# See Lego Chevy 454 V8 Engine And Transmission Run Using 8-Bit Computer
Legos are not just for building simple structures. Some people take it to the next level by constructing life-size, realistic objects with intricate movements. One such example is the Chevy 454 V8 engine and transmission built entirely out of Legos.
This impressive creation was made by Evan Koblentz, who used Expert Builder series Lego parts from the 1970s and 1980s. The engine consists of several thousand pieces and is nearly life-sized, measuring four feet long and weighing about 40 pounds. Koblentz spent a significant amount of time building it during the pandemic. He chose the Chevy 454 because it was a popular engine found in cars like the Corvette or Chevelle SS during that period.
What sets this Lego model apart is its precision movement. The engine features a working crankshaft, valves, rocker arms, camshaft, and pistons. It even includes lights that simulate sparkplug ignition, controlled by an 8-bit Lazer 128 computer from the 1980s running programs in BASIC.
In 2022, Koblentz showcased his engine at Brickworld Chicago, one of the largest Lego conventions in the US. Although it was nominated for an award in the Best Mechanical category, it did not win. Undeterred, Koblentz added a working four-speed transmission to his creation, complete with reverse, clutch, and shifter. He returned to Brickworld Chicago in 2023 and, this time, took home the win for the Best Mechanical category.
The Chevy 454 engine was introduced in 1970 as a replacement for the 427 V8. It was used in various Chevrolet models such as the Corvette, Chevelle SS, Caprice, El Camino, and Monte Carlo. However, due to increasing fuel economy and emissions regulations, it was phased out at the end of the 1975 model year. It made a brief return in the 1980s and 1990s and found its place in General Motors trucks, including the Chevy SS 454 muscle truck.
Riding a retro-style motorbike often means embracing fashionable riding gear. Fortunately, gear manufacturers now offer retro-inspired gear with modern technology and safety features.
One brand that stands out in this genre is Helstons, which was one of the first to cater to the retro-themed market. Their apparel collection is designed for riders of scramblers, cafe-racers, classic bikes, cruisers, and modern classics. Adding to their impressive selection of gear, Helstons has recently launched the Monaco Air jacket, a mesh jacket designed for maximum ventilation while still maintaining a classy and sophisticated look.
Despite its stylish exterior, the Helstons Monaco Air jacket is packed with tech and safety features. The abrasion-resistant synthetic fabric ensures durability and protection. Breathable mesh panels on the chest, back, and arms improve airflow and keep the rider cool and comfortable. The jacket also has a full interior mesh lining for added comfort. CE protection on the elbows, shoulders, and back is removable for further safety, and the jacket is certified according to the EN 1621-1 standard.
In addition to style and safety, the Monaco Air jacket offers practical amenities that make it suitable for daily use. It has two zippered pockets inside the lining for safe storage of personal items. A zippered wallet pocket on the front adds convenience. The jacket also features four exterior zippered pockets for easy access to essentials while on the move. With its blend of elegance, technology, and functionality, the Helstons Monaco Air jacket meets the demands of riders seeking style, safety, and usefulness.
The Helstons Monaco Air motorcycle jacket is available in various fashionable colors, including blue, white, and red, allowing riders to customize their look. It comes in sizes ranging from S to 4XL, ensuring a comfortable fit for riders of all body shapes. Priced at 199 Euros ($219 USD), this jacket offers a combination of quality, design, and features at an affordable price.
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