Tag Archives: that’s

Motorsport

Ford Builds Firefighting Bronco, Donates It To National Park In New Mexico

Ford has created a specialized version of the Bronco SUV to serve as a mobile firefighting command vehicle at Bandelier National Monument in New Mexico. This modified Bronco is designed to access remote areas and provide up-to-date information to firefighters.

The firefighting Bronco is a collaboration between Ford and Darley, a manufacturer of fire and rescue vehicles. It is based on the Badlands model with the Sasquatch package, which includes a suspension lift and 35-inch tires for improved off-roading capabilities. Additional features such as a Warn winch, grille guard, and beadlock wheels have been added to help the Bronco navigate the rugged terrain of the 33,000-acre national monument.


Technology

iOS 17: Why You Should Wait Before Installing the Developer Beta

When it comes to beta software, bugs are expected. The whole purpose of a beta version is for users to discover and report issues, helping the company refine the software. While many bugs are small and get fixed quickly, there’s always the possibility of major ones. And for iPhone users, these major bugs can include battery drain, dropped calls, app crashes, unreliable Wi-Fi connection, and other bothersome problems.

If you own multiple iPhones, installing iOS 17 won’t be a big deal. You can simply install it on a device you don’t use daily. However, if you only have one iPhone that you heavily rely on for calls and daily tasks, installing the iOS 17 developer beta is a big risk. A serious bug could make your phone difficult or even impossible to use until Apple releases a fix. This fix could take several days, depending on the problem’s urgency and priority.

If you’re eager to test iOS 17 but don’t want to take such a risk, it’s best to wait for the iOS 17 public beta. This version will likely have resolved most of the major problems. Although you might still encounter some issues, they probably won’t be as severe. However, it’s important to remember that betas should never be installed on your primary devices. As advised by Apple, you should “install only on devices and systems that you’re prepared to erase if necessary.”

News

A Suzuki Burgman Transformed into a Replica of a BMW R 100 RS

Although it may look like a BMW R 100 RS, this motorcycle is actually a Suzuki 650 Burgman that has been customized to resemble the iconic BMW model. The creator, Thomas Janotta, has named it the “Suzuki R 65 Burgman RS,” a unique and intriguing addition to the world of custom replicas.

Based in the Swabian town of Beilstein, Janotta is a man of many talents, including optician, watchmaker, goldsmith, and inventor. Alongside this motorcycle project, he has also worked on several other creations in his garage.

Opinions are divided when it comes to this homage to the BMW R 100 RS. Some people find it cool, while others question the reasoning behind it. This is understandable because the Suzuki Burgman is quite different from the R 100 RS.

Janotta was drawn to the Suzuki 650 Burgman due to its impressive reputation. He initially wanted to use it as a towing vehicle for a racing kneeler team. However, certain obstacles prevented him from pursuing that idea.

He purchased the 650 Burgman for a mere 600 EUR. The affordable price was due to the previous owner falling off the scooter at a slow speed and deciding to sell it. Janotta then acquired the damaged bike and brought it into his garage.

As a BMW enthusiast, Janotta decided to give the Burgman a makeover with a 1981 R 100 RS fairing. After obtaining a gas tank, side covers, and a seat from the R 100 RS, Janotta successfully transformed the top half of the bike to resemble the BMW model.

However, fitting the fairing onto the scooter was not a straightforward process. It required custom brackets and adaptors to be created and installed. Additionally, since the Burgman lacked boxer heads, Janotta had to cover the air-cooling holes with sheet metal cladding taken from a Volkswagen Transporter.

In addition to the absence of a boxer engine, the modified Burgman features 15-inch front wheels. Other modifications include an access pipe for the integrated 18-liter fuel tank, a special gas pump for the Burgman’s engine, a slightly widened and shortened RS seat, and a relocated air filter now placed inside the tank. Janotta also added an R 100 GS handlebar to enhance the Burgman’s overall appearance.

What makes this custom build even more impressive is that it is compliant with TÜV regulations. With the original headlights, taillights, indicators, drivetrain, and chassis of the Burgman intact, it is roadworthy and ready for registration. The only non-original accessory is an approved muffler. However, the shortened rear end no longer accommodates two passengers.

All in all, the entire project cost 2,200 EUR (approximately $2,400 USD), covering the bike, parts, and metallic gold paint. It was a budget-friendly endeavor. For more details about the build, Motorrad’s article on the bike provides further insights.

Technology

Essential Apps for Amazon Fire Stick Users

While a TV is primarily used for watching content, an Amazon Fire Stick can enhance its functionality. Apart from streaming movies and shows, you can transform your Fire Stick-equipped TV into a cost-effective home sound system using various apps. One such app is Spotify.

With the Spotify app on your Fire Stick, you can enjoy the same features available on mobile and desktop devices. It provides access to a vast music library, live radio stations, podcasts, and more. While Spotify Premium offers the option to save music offline and enjoy the highest audio quality, you can still use the app’s basic features for free, with occasional advertisements. Additionally, since the Fire Stick is an Amazon product, you can easily sync the Spotify app with Alexa. This allows you to control your music playback through verbal commands, making it convenient to stream music from your TV.

Motorsport

Honda is recalling 1.2 million vehicles due to a faulty cable that could disrupt the rear camera feed

Honda is issuing a recall for over one million vehicles, including the Odyssey, Pilot, and Passport models. The reason behind the recall is a defective coax cable that may cause the rearview camera to stop working during use. The good news is that there doesn’t appear to be a risk of fire associated with the cable issue. However, losing the camera feed while backing up could be problematic for drivers.

A total of 1,198,280 Honda vehicles are included in the recall. The affected vehicles are 2018-2023 Odyssey models, 2019-2023 Passport models, and 2019-2022 Pilot models. The specific problem lies with the car’s Media Oriented Systems Transport (MOST) coaxial cable. Honda has determined that the cable was improperly designed and manufactured, and its failure can lead to issues such as flickering on the audio screen, popping or crackling sounds, and most importantly, the potential for the rearview camera to cut out while in use.


News

2026 Lotus Type 135: Electric Elise still in works after Alpine split

Lotus is continuing its legacy of excellence in dynamics, aerodynamics, and lightweighting with the upcoming release of the Type 135, an all-electric sports car. Although it will have a different propulsion system, Lotus aims to maintain its signature qualities while also benefiting from features like instant torque, easier cooling, and better packaging. As a result, the Type 135 will offer ample storage and packaging benefits.

The E-Sports platform, which will underpin the Type 135, will support both single- and twin-motor powertrains. The power output is expected to range from 469bhp to 872bhp, offering significantly more power than the current Elise models. The higher-powered versions of the Type 135 could even fill the gap left by the track-focused Exige.

The E-Sports platform is designed to accommodate both rear- and four-wheel-drive powertrains. Although the showcased concepts have so far featured rear-mounted drive systems, Lotus remains open to the possibility of offering a torque-vectoring setup similar to the one found in the flagship Evija. As a result, certain defining features from the Evija may find their way into future Lotus sports cars.

Lotus is also focused on making the Type 135 as aerodynamically efficient as possible. Taking inspiration from the Venturi tunnels of the Evija, the car will feature aerodynamic aids that run throughout its design. This design approach takes advantage of the compact nature of an electric drivetrain. However, while the Type 135 will have similarities to the hypercar, it will be far more accessible and affordable.

Lotus plans to leverage the efficiencies within the broader Geely group, which includes Volvo, Polestar, Lynk&Co, and LEVC, to keep development and retail costs down. By utilizing components and systems from other brands, Lotus aims to deliver affordable performance. While it may not be possible to offer the Type 135 at the same price as the entry-level Elise, the cost of necessary materials and components is expected to decrease significantly. This could potentially position the Type 135 in the price range of the retired Exige line-up, estimated to be between £80,000 and £100,000.

Technology

8 Best 50-55 Inch OLED TVs On The Market Right Now

The LG C2, despite being succeeded by the C3, is still considered the better option. While the C3 offers slightly higher brightness and a newer interface, it is significantly more expensive, priced at $1,899. On the other hand, the C2 can often be found at a discount of around $600, making it a more affordable choice. Both models use the same panel, so there are no hardware upgrades with the newer version. The C2 delivers top-tier image quality, 120Hz VRR, and LG’s Game Optimizer, all packaged in a minimalist design suitable for any space.

The LG C2 features the α9 Gen 5 processor, which enhances the sharpness of lower-resolution content with 4K upscaling. It also supports Dolby Atmos for a more immersive sound experience. LG’s proprietary smart TV OS offers seamless integration with various streaming platforms, including Apple TV, Disney+, Netflix, and Hulu. There are few drawbacks to the C2, especially considering its current discounted price. As of now, you can find it on Amazon for just under $1,299.

Cars

Best Electric SUVs Of 2023

The Genesis Electrified GV70 is an exceptional electric vehicle (EV) that unfortunately faces challenges in the American market. It is only available for purchase at Genesis dealerships in 23 states due to supply shortages of vital EV components. However, if you manage to find one, it is definitely worth considering. With a powerful performance of 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, it can outpace some sports cars off the line. Additionally, the interior of the GV70 is luxurious and sophisticated, comparable to Genesis’ gas-powered models.

Interestingly, the GV70 is also available in its internal combustion engine (ICE) form, which explains the slightly awkward name of the Electrified GV70. At a glance, it can be challenging to differentiate the gas-powered GV70 from the EV version. The main distinguishing feature is the large faux grille on the electric car. Concealed within the grille is a discreet cover for the charging port.

The appeal of the Electrified GV70 lies not just in its electric powertrain but also in being a superb premium SUV. However, one downside is its range, which is 236 miles and considered average compared to other EVs in its class. Another major drawback is the limited availability, as the car cannot be purchased in over half of the country.

News

Can This Honda Monkey Set A New World Record With An Outsized Fuel Tank?

On June 10, 2023, aftermarket components specialist Acerbis set off on an extremely formidable undertaking that’s been two years within the making. Several departments inside the firm labored collectively to create a specifically crafted outsized gasoline tank, designed to suit a Honda Monkey completely. Courtesy of this tank, Acerbis believes it will probably set a brand new Guinness World Record for the Greatest Distance Drive on a Single Tank of Fuel by a Motorcycle (Prototype).

The gasoline tank is an enormous factor, and it holds a full 108 liters (or about 28.53 gallons) of gasoline. The undertaking, known as AC50, was designed to kick off in 2023 as a result of it’s also Acerbis’ 50th anniversary. What higher means are you able to consider to rejoice than to do one thing extraordinarily public, that pulls collectively all the abilities and planning that your organization is able to?  

The tanks, Acerbis says, are the identical security components by which the corporate has made its title within the aftermarket motorbike components and equipment sport. The journey began in Albino, Italy, and is following a fastidiously deliberate route all the best way to Nordkapp, Norway. The distance of the route is 4,358 kilometers (or about 2707.94 mi), and the group plans to finish the complete distance on one tank as a way to obtain its desired Guinness World Record. 

 

However, though they’ve executed loads of calculations to make sure that they’ve sufficient gasoline to go the gap, it’s additionally potential that they’ll have extra gasoline than they want. In reality, the Acerbis people are relying on it. That’s why they are saying that as an alternative of stopping as soon as they hit their aim in Norway, they intend to maintain using that bike right down to the final drop of gasoline, simply to see how far they will get—after which report their findings, after all. 

Such an extended journey could be harmful to finish with only one rider—and that’s not a essential requirement for this document, anyway. As a consequence, Acerbis has assembled a group of three riders who will commerce off on pilot obligation alongside the best way. The group is comprised of enduro rider Andrea Rastrelli, journalist Alicia Sornosa, and journalist Maurizio Vettor.


AC50 Monkey Guinness World Records Attempt 3

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While the Monkey is much from being essentially the most highly effective bike on this planet, it’s extremely fuel-efficient, and it will probably actually get you the place you’re going, for those who don’t need to get there in document time. Those traits make it good for this world document try—and the right option to put on this specially-made Acerbis outsized gasoline tank for the job.

Will the group achieve its efforts? Stay tuned to see how they do.