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Motorsport

Santander Closes Accounts Of Customers Who Paid Cash For Cars In Argentina

Santander Bank of Argentina has started closing accounts of customers who purchased new cars with cash during the pandemic. The former Banco Rio entity considers these accounts suspicious despite the fact the AFIP, Argentina’s Administration of Public Income, authorized the transactions and the money originated in accounts held at the bank. 

The affected bank customers recently began contacting Motor1 Argentina, which broke the story. In each instance, the case involved a Santander Bank customer who purchased a new vehicle between 2020 and 2023 using electronic funds transfer. In those cases, the customer first received an alert on their cellphone through the Santander mobile bank app, followed by a formal letter notifying them of their account closure. The notifications indicate that Santander Bank considers these transactions suspicious despite the fact they were carried out using an official Certificate of Legal Funds approved by the AFIP. 

One Santander Bank customer, who bought a new Toyota Hilux in 2020, notified Motor1 Argentina after their account was closed. They had held the account for 20 years and bought the vehicle for five million pesos, the equivalent of $18,570 US dollars, using money from that account validated with a Certificate of Legal Funds. Another customer had their account closed after 25 years because they conducted the transaction online during the pandemic. A third purchased a Jeep Renegade with money from their checking account and had their account closed despite Santander Bank having records of all of their transactions.    

For over two decades, the AFIP has required customers and dealers to present official Certificates of Legal Funds to conduct new car transactions. Cash transactions are carried out using electronic funds transfers as a way to ensure the money is traceable for tax purposes and to avoid any appearance of laundering. Customers of Santander Bank were also encouraged to do business online, which in many cases, was the only option during the pandemic.    

Motor1 Argentina reached out to Banco Santander for confirmation. After 11 days, a spokesperson for the bank responded, stating, “The information published is false and lacks support. In no way are there general account closure procedures for car buyers. Any account closure process is analyzed individually and in accordance with current applicable regulations.”

Motorsport

BMW’s Latest Art Car is the iX1 Electric Crossover, Designed by a German Artist

BMW has a rich history of creating incredible art cars. It all began in 1975 with the BMW 3.0 CSL, which was designed by sculptor Alexander Calder and has since become an automotive legend. In 1979, BMW unveiled the M1 art car, painted by the renowned artist Andy Warhol. However, with the changing industry and BMW’s focus on electric mobility, their latest art car is the iX1.

The iX1 is a small electric crossover that was first revealed over a year ago. Although it won’t be available in the United States, customers in other regions around the world will have the option to choose a dual-motor electric powertrain with a maximum output of 313 horsepower (230 kilowatts) and 364 pound-feet (494 Newton-meters) of torque. It serves as an alternative to the traditional combustion-powered X1 models and can travel up to 272 miles (438 kilometers) on a single charge, thanks to its 64.7-kilowatt-hour battery package.


Motorsport

Challenging Detailing Project: Reviving a Neglected Toyota Supra Mk4

The fourth-generation Toyota Supra, known as the Supra Mk4, was produced from 1993 to 2002. It is highly sought after today, especially rare well-preserved examples. However, finding one in its original condition has become increasingly difficult. One particular black Supra has been left uncared for and hasn’t been washed in years, resulting in a heavily damaged exterior. But with the right tools and knowledge, it is possible to restore its factory look.

Before anything else, the car undergoes a contactless prewash to remove any loose dirt and grime. The Supra is then lifted on a car jack for easier access to the underbody. A thorough wash is done using a microfiber sponge and brushes for intricate areas. The wheels are also taken off and cleaned extensively, especially the front wheels which have accumulated a lot of brake dust. Once the car is clean and dry, the real challenge begins.

All exterior surfaces need to be clayed, which involves using a synthetic poly clay bar to remove bonded surface contaminants. This step is vital before proceeding to the polishing process, particularly for a car that has been exposed to the elements for years. There is still much work to be done, and that’s just for the exterior. The interior makeover is yet to come. Despite the daunting state of the Supra’s paintwork, the results are truly impressive.

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ROLAND HINZ & ME

The year was 1980 when I started working at Dirt Bike Magazine. Two weeks prior, the ownership (Bill Golden) had hired an executive to run the day to day operations and play a role in the planning and execution of the two magazines we had, Motocross Action and Dirt Bike. Roland Hinz had come from a successful job working at entertainment mags (Rona Barrett’s Gossip and Hollywood) turning them into big money makers. He was a magazine guru, a newsstand specialist and he had a passion for dirt bikes.

Roland had come into an environment where huge egos worked diligently to protect their fiefdoms and were violently opposed to most of the ideas he brought to the table. Editorial meetings forecasting our plans for the month, cover subject meetings and cover line control and working within a budget led his vision. The reigning staff boiled.

What we didn’t know was that Roland was there to rescue a sinking ship that was hemorrhaging money. His goal was to pay off the debt, then purchase the company. What I remember was that things in the office got tense. I was a full-blown dirt bike enthusiast and was just excited to be working for the magazine. There was talk of anarchy, continuous criticism and zero respect for the future owner of Hi Torque Publications. I was afraid that I’d lose my job right after getting the best job on the planet.

Roland was tough but had enough patience to kickstart the change in the company. By the time he paid off the debt and became the owner, the Editors embraced his plan and amazingly, we flourished. I remember color meetings (where we chose the photos for the magazine and the main cover image) that lasted for hours. He was always enthusiastic about cover lines, knowing that they had the ability to attract attention at the newsstand if they had a good hook. Forty years later, Roland played a role in every cover line that appeared on his magazines.

He was good at allowing the editors with a passion for the sport to drive the content. We just had to convince him how this was good for the reader, beneficial for the advertiser, and aligned with the interests of the newsstand buyer. I remember when Paul [Clipper] tested a Honda ATC in Dirt Bike. It was a highly debated move, disliked by the purists in the office. Roland saw it as an emerging sport and started Dirt Wheels magazine. For decades, it was his most successful magazine.

In 1981, while at a Husqvarna product intro at DeAnza Cycle Park, all the press members got a chance to test ride every new model in their line. Roland was on a trail ride with Mark Blackwell, I was out riding in the canyons with Dick Burleson. Our two groups met head-on in a tight canyon with near misses among the riders. I collided directly with one of the riders. It was Roland. I thought that it was the end of my job. My boss was more scared than mad, and we never talked about the incident again.

There were some unique aspects to the man. He was incredibly successful yet drove a Volkswagen Thing to work every day for years. In the decades that I worked for him, he always wore shorts and tennis shoes. And when it came to religion, Roland was a devout Christian. Every year at our Christmas party, he would start it with a prayer, allowing non-believers to leave if they were offended. After my wife passed away following a long battle with cancer, Roland sat with me in my office every day, talking about life, death, and God, always ending with “are you good?”

When I started working for Roland, I was young and afraid of the stern German. We would clash over covers, argue about budgets for testing and travel, and in over four decades, nothing changed. Except that we became friends. He was a mentor, and in a changing world where magazines were seen as a dying industry, we remained profitable.

Roland passed away this weekend after a long battle with his health. I will truly miss this man. He was a teacher, a tough and strict boss, and had the gift of taking care of the people who made great things happen which was undoubtedly a catalyst for Hi Torque’s success. Rest in peace, my friend.

-Tom Webb

Exclusives, News, Technology

Meta’s Twitter Competitor Threads Now Available on Android and iOS

In the past, there were rumors about a Meta product called Threads, but it turned out to be a service that no longer exists. However, in recent months, we have gained a clearer understanding of what the new Threads has to offer. Screenshots of the app were leaked in early June, and the Android version became available just a few days ago. The iOS version quickly followed suit. Prior to the official launch, some people were able to download the Android app through an apk file, but they were unable to sign in as their accounts lacked the necessary permissions.

Now that the app has been released in multiple markets, former Twitter users who switched over under Elon Musk’s leadership, as well as those eagerly anticipating the next big thing, have a new option that feels familiar. Threads is different from Mastodon, which can be confusing for many people, and other limited platforms like Bluesky. Threads is widely accessible, especially since it is linked to Instagram, a social media app that is likely already installed on your phone. With Meta leading the way, Threads is more likely to have longevity compared to competing platforms from startups that may struggle to secure the necessary financial backing for a successful product.

Motorsport

Watch a Chevy Camaro V6 from the 1980s Get Its First Wash in 12 Years

Chevrolet Camaros from the third generation are gaining recognition in the collector world. The IROC-Z and Z/28 models are selling for over $20,000 in good to excellent condition. In some cases, these cars can even fetch up to $50,000 when they are in pristine condition with very low mileage. Even the base model Camaros can have a significant value, reaching into the low five-figure range with the right options.

However, this particular Chevrolet Camaro won’t be joining the ranks of those highly-prized cars anytime soon. After sitting outside for twelve years, the car’s surface is covered in what appears to be fungus or mold spores, giving it the appearance of being covered in barnacles. The WD Detailing crew has the challenge of bringing this car back to life, both in terms of getting it cleaned up and getting it running. While the Camaro is not in as bad shape as the Austin Healey they previously restored earlier this year, it is clear that they have their work cut out for them.

Fortunately, the spores can be removed with a thorough pressure wash. Despite the fact that General Motors had issues with paint peeling in the 1980s and early 1990s, the red paint on the Camaro remains mostly intact, except for the rear deck, which still looks weathered and faded. However, after some sanding and polishing, the paint begins to shine once again.

Under the hood, this Camaro is equipped with a fuel-injected 2.8-liter V6 engine. With a multi-port electronic setup, the fuel injection system boosted the engine’s output to 135 horsepower and 165 pound-feet of torque. Although the performance of this engine was not particularly impressive in the 3,300-pound Camaro, it was typical for the era when even the “hot” engines produced only 225 horsepower.

After sitting for twelve years, the V6 engine is currently not producing any horsepower. However, with the help of Robby Layton, who stopped by the WD Detailing shop, they were able to get it started, despite dealing with corroded fuel lines and gas tank.

Moving inside the car, it is in rough condition with lots of debris and at least one dead mouse. However, with some cleaning, the Camaro begins to look presentable. Although the V6 may not have the same appeal as the 1983 Camaro Z/28 featured previously, it still has the potential to be a nice car for cruising around.

News

Watch Wheels Through Time Troubleshoot This Ultra-Rare 1942 Harley Racer

In June 2023, Matt Walksler from Wheels Through Time took viewers on the museum’s YouTube channel on a journey into the world of an extremely rare Harley-Davidson race bike. This particular bike is an answer to the question of what’s rarer than rare.

The bike in question is a 1942 Harley-Davidson FLTT, equipped with a highly uncommon 80 cubic inch racing engine. The factory mechanics of the time went all out on this bike, implementing every trick in the book. The engine features ported cylinders, shortened pistons, polished connecting rods, and lightened flywheels. The goal was to maximize speed and performance by reducing friction, shedding weight wherever possible, and reinforcing parts under intense stress.

In a recent video, the WTT team showcased their progress in getting this unique bike up and running. When it initially arrived at the museum, it was about 70-80 percent complete. However, as anyone who has taken on a project knows, it’s often the final hurdles that prove to be the most frustrating.

A significant contribution to the project came from Walksler’s extensive collection of parts that he has amassed over the years. His knack for recognizing useful parts proved valuable in this case, as he had the correct primary cover for the bike.

Despite all the effort put into assembling the bike and ensuring it was in good working order, it refused to start. Walksler attempted the process multiple times, but to no avail. The bike had great compression, spark, and fuel in the tank, so what was the issue?

In these situations, it’s often best to step away from the project and approach it with fresh eyes later on. Walksler and his team decided to leave it overnight and return the next day with a clear mind. They discovered that the carburetor on this bike differed from the standard unit found in other non-TT race bikes made by Harley at the time. Walksler suspected that the low-speed needle jet was screwed in too far, resulting in improper fueling and the bike’s failure to start.

The good news is that the following day, the bike started successfully, emitting a strong, healthy rumble from its race pipes. According to Walksler, the engine itself is relatively quiet, but the exhaust on the bike is quite loud. Fans of startup videos featuring ultra-rare bikes will appreciate the conclusion of this video, so grab your best headphones for the optimal experience.

News

15 Things That Set the Can-Am Spyder Apart from Traditional Motorcycles

Back in 1972, Can-Am was established as a subsidiary of the Bombardier Corporation. They initially focused on manufacturing off-road motorcycles until 1987 when they shifted their attention to snowmobiles, ATVs, and other products. However, in 2007, Can-Am entered the on-road market with a unique three-wheeled motorcycle known as the Can-Am Spyder. Here are 15 things that make the Can-Am Spyder different from traditional motorcycles:

1. Can-Am Motorcycles Come with Three Wheels

The most distinct feature of the Can-Am Spyder is its three-wheel configuration. Unlike traditional motorcycles that have two wheels, the Spyder has two front wheels and one rear drive wheel. This design ensures added stability and confidence, especially for new riders.

2. There Is the Can-Am Spyder

The Can-Am Spyder is a lineup of high-level three-wheeled street motorcycles offered by the company. These models feature larger engines and are capable of reaching top speeds of over 100 MPH. The Spyder lineup includes different trim levels, with the Can-Am Spyder F3 being the entry-level model and the Can-Am Spyder RT Sky-to-Sea being the top-of-the-line option.

3. There’s Also the Can-Am Ryker

The Can-Am Ryker is another three-wheeled motorcycle offered by Can-Am. It is marketed as a more entry-level model, but still offers plenty of fun and excitement. The Ryker comes in different engine sizes and models, including the Ryker Sport and the Ryker Rally.

4. Can-Am Bikes Make Up to 115 Horsepower

Can-Am motorcycles are equipped with powerful engines that can produce up to 115 horsepower. The F3 and RT models feature an inline three-cylinder 1330cc engine, while the Ryker models have inline twin 600cc and inline triple 900cc engines. These engines provide smooth and constant acceleration, making for an exhilarating riding experience.

5. The Can-Am Ryker Features a Unique Setup

The Can-Am Ryker is designed with a distinctive front-end setup. It features a large radiator positioned between the front wheels, ensuring efficient cooling without the need for additional plastics or designs. The Ryker also offers customizable side panels in various colors.

6. The Can-Am Lineup Comes with a CVT

All Can-Am motorcycles are equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). This automatic transmission transfers power from the engine to the driveshaft smoothly and efficiently. Shifting gears is as simple as moving a lever, making for a hassle-free riding experience.

7. The Can-Am Ryker Rally Is Technically a Dual Sport

The Can-Am Ryker Rally is a variant of the Ryker designed for both off-road and on-road riding. It comes with stronger rims, on-off-road tires, mud flaps, and additional features like a push bar, skid plate, and pre-filtered intake. The Ryker Rally also offers different ride modes and improved suspension for better handling on dirt roads.

8. Countersteering Is Not a Thing with the Can-Am Motorcycle

Unlike traditional motorcycles, countersteering is not necessary when riding a Can-Am motorcycle. Countersteering is the act of pushing the handlebars in the opposite direction to initiate a turn. However, the Can-Am’s three-wheel design eliminates the need for this technique, as the two front wheels handle the steering.

9. The Can-Am Roadster Does Not Accelerate Like a Motorcycle

The Can-Am Roadster, such as the Spyder F3 model, has a different acceleration profile compared to traditional motorcycles. Its three-wheel configuration and added weight result in slower acceleration times. While traditional motorcycles can achieve quick bursts of speed, the Can-Am Roadster takes a bit longer to reach high speeds.

10. Limited In-Gear Acceleration

In-gear acceleration, such as passing another vehicle at high speed, is not as quick on a Can-Am motorcycle compared to traditional motorcycles. The added weight and design of the Roadster affect its ability to accelerate rapidly while at higher speeds. Riders need to plan their maneuvers accordingly when riding a Can-Am Roadster.

11. The Can-Am Motorcycle Is a Bike with a 400 Pound Towing Capacity

The Can-Am Roadster has a towing capacity of 400 pounds. It is designed to handle the weight of specially designed trailers that can be attached to the motorcycle. This feature makes the Can-Am Roadster a suitable option for long-distance touring or carrying additional gear.

12. The Can-Am Spyder Can Touch Speeds of Up to 125 MPH

Despite its unique design, the Can-Am Spyder is capable of reaching high speeds. The Spyder F3 model, for example, can touch speeds of up to 125 miles per hour. This allows riders to enjoy the thrill of speed on the open road.

13. If You’re a Solo Rider, the Can-Am F3 Is for You

The Can-Am Spyder F3 is specifically designed for solo riders. It offers a sporty and dynamic riding experience. The F3 comes in different variations, allowing riders to choose their preferred color, audio package, and additional features like a rear seat and hard cases.

14. The Can-Am Spyder RT Takes Things to the Next Level

The Can-Am Spyder RT is the luxury model in the lineup. It offers enhanced features like rear side cases, a front trunk for storage, hand and seat warmers for both the rider and passenger, and a six-speaker audio system. The RT models provide a high-end riding experience with added comfort and convenience.

15. The Can-Am Spyder Is Classified as a Motorcycle

Despite its unique design, the Can-Am Spyder is classified as a motorcycle. Operators of the Spyder are required to have a motorcycle license in most states. The Spyder operates more like a motorcycle than a car, with features like a twist throttle, left-mounted rear brake pedal, and a distinct riding experience.

News

Held’s New Leg Bag Holds A Liter’s Worth Of Stuff

Held’s New Leg Bag Holds A Liter’s Worth Of Stuff

Held, a company with a long history in the motorcycling gear industry, has recently released a new leg bag that offers convenient storage for riders. Since its establishment in 1946, Held has focused on producing high-quality motorcycle gear. The brand gained further recognition with the assistance of 11-time European Motocross Champion, Erwin Schmider, who helped develop the first dedicated MX glove. Today, Held offers a wide range of motorcycle gear, including casual jackets, pants, boots, suits, leathers, and more for racers and tourers.

In addition to their moto gear, Held also offers a selection of lifestyle products that can be worn off the bike. The new leg bag is one such item.

Sleek Design and Features

The leg bag has a one-liter capacity and comes with several useful features. It has reflective prints to enhance visibility and safety, a waterproof inner pocket with a roll click closing mechanism, an organizer, mesh inner pockets, and pass-throughs for navigation system cables, earphones, or power bank cables.

The bag’s main body is made of water-repellent nylon fabric, and the waterproof inner shell adds an extra layer of protection against rain showers. However, the bag does not come with an official water-repellency rating.

The bag is designed to attach to the rider’s hip and leg, allowing it to stay secure and out of the way during rides. Despite its compact size, the bag provides ample storage space for essential items such as wallets, phones, power banks, and even helmet wipes.

Pricing and Availability

The suggested retail price for Held’s new leg bag is 39.95 EUR or approximately $43 USD. Riders can purchase this bag to enhance their riding experience and conveniently carry their belongings.

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ZACH OSBORNE SHARES HIS THOUGHTS ON OFF-ROAD RACING

Zach Osborne, a well-known motocross and supercross rider, recently made the decision to try his hand at off-road racing. Unfortunately, he was sidelined with an elbow injury shortly after joining the Am-Pro Yamaha team for the GNCC XC1 Pro class. In a recent interview with Dirt Bike’s Travis Fant, Osborne gave an update on his recovery and discussed his experiences in off-road racing.

In his early days racing for Geico Honda, Osborne had already dabbled in off-road racing. He competed in a few GNCCs and the International Six Days Enduro (ISDE) in 2013 and 2014. When asked about his experience at the ISDE, Osborne mentioned that he raced alongside notable riders like Mike Brown, Kailub Russell, Thad Duvall, Kurt Caselli, and Charlie Mullins.

Osborne revealed that off-road racing was always part of his long-term plan, even during his successful motocross career. He seized the opportunity to switch to off-road racing when it came along, despite facing challenges and setbacks. He acknowledged that the level of competition and the sport itself had evolved significantly in the past decade, but he was determined to succeed.

In terms of training, Osborne made adjustments to focus on zone training and working in mid-heart-rate zones. He mentioned that his training intensity is now consistent across all aspects, including riding and supplemental training. Although he has reduced the number of riding days per week, the hours spent on the road bike and dirt bike have increased.

When asked about the differences between motocross and off-road racing, Osborne mentioned that he hadn’t had much opportunity to ride off-road tracks due to his injury. However, he did have a chance to experience the challenging Penton section of the GNCC, which involved riding rocks, roots, and managing difficult terrain. He acknowledged that there was a learning curve but expressed confidence in his ability to adapt and improve.

As the reigning 2020 Pro Motocross Champion, Osborne acknowledged that he might have a target on his back in the GNCC. He understood that competitors would want to beat him and recognized the elevated level of competition in off-road racing.

One significant difference Osborne noticed between supercross and off-road racing was the atmosphere. Off-road events were more laid-back and less corporate-driven. He appreciated the grassroots nature of off-road racing and the passion that riders had for the sport.

In terms of bike setup, Osborne mentioned that he now runs hand guards for off-road racing, something he hadn’t used in motocross or supercross. His bike is also set up softer for the rougher off-road terrain. He emphasized the durability of the off-road bikes and the focus on longevity rather than short bursts of performance.

Osborne shared that many racers and people in the sport thought he was crazy for transitioning from supercross to off-road racing. However, he believed it was the right decision for him and his wife. He expressed appreciation for the opportunity and the support from his team.

Regarding his recovery and plans for the summer break, Osborne mentioned that he had suffered a leg injury in a recent crash. Due to the extent of the injury and overall soreness, he decided to take some time to heal and come back stronger. He mentioned his intention to participate in local races and events during the summer break to regain his momentum and ride competitively again.

Although Osborne has considered racing on the West Coast, he admitted that the high speeds and the skill level of the riders in races like WORCS (World Off Road Championship Series) were not suitable for him at the moment.

When asked about his thoughts on two-stroke bikes, Osborne admitted he wasn’t a big fan and preferred the performance of four-stroke bikes. He mentioned that his current Yamaha YZ250F was one of his favorite bikes, and he believed that the advantages of riding a two-stroke in the GNCC were minimal.

Osborne’s down-to-earth and media-friendly nature was also discussed in the interview. He believed in reciprocating the time and effort people put into him and had respect for those working in different disciplines and making a living. Osborne expressed gratitude for the opportunities in his career and hoped to be a positive influence for future riders looking to transition from supercross to off-road racing.

The interview concluded with Osborne expressing his enthusiasm for returning to racing and making his mark in the GNCC. He emphasized his determination to succeed and pave the way for others in the sport.