Friday, June 26, 2009 Return of the Cafe Racers breaks the Ton!

100 followers and counting! Thank you for watching my site.

My promise to you all now is to strive to bring you the juciest Cafe Racers and custom motorcycle goodness from all over the globe.

Here's a few to get started...

The first motorcycle design was pretty good, so the years following produced little change. In 1922, a 3 speed gearbox was mounted in the engine of the 616 cc V2. The model had no rear suspension.

Thursday, June 11, 2009 Cafe Racer - POW!

Those are the lowest clip-ons I've ever seen.

Mac Motorcycles Roarer,

After staring at pictures of Mac Motorcycles Roarer, I wanted to give the bike a bit more of a Cafe Racer appearance so with the magic of Photoshop I cut, pasted, blended, skewed and reworked their Roarer in to my very own Mac based Cafe Racer.

Yamaha XS650

Spotted this sweet Yamaha XS650 customised by Loaded Gun Customs on eBay. It's no Cafe Racer but with a couple of aesthetic mods it would easily make the grade. The list of work done on the bike is extensive and the finished bike is impressive to say the least.

Sunday, January 18, 2009 2010 Honda Fury - It's official.

After my post a few days ago the Honda Fury was officially launched in New York. To coincide with this aHonda Fury website has been launched featuring a comprehensive gallery with street photos, studio shots, 360 rotations and videos. You can also read the full specs on the bike and hear it in action.

Wanderer

The first motorcycle design was pretty good, so the years following produced little change. In 1922, a 3 speed gearbox was mounted in the engine of the 616 cc V2. The model had no rear suspension.

Megola

The twenties were very interesting times in the development of vehicles, and also of motorcycles. The most important was technical development rather than marketing. One of the most remarkable designs comes from Friz Cockerel, who designed a motorcycle between 1921 and 1925 which has the engine in the front wheel. This was the Megola, of which about 2000 were sold.

Laverda

In the seventies Laverda contributed to the increasing popularity of Italian motorcycles by selling a 750, 1000 and a 1200 cc motorcycle. The brothers Piero and Massimo Laverda where very ambitious, despite their financial problems. They instructed Giulio Alfieri, the designer of the famous V12 Maserati engine, to make a very complicated engine for a Laverda race model.

Koehler Escoffier

This motorcycle is known as one of the most beautiful French racing machines of all time. Only 13 of this type were built between 1927 and 1935. The model in the picture is from the racing motorist Georges Monneret and is a unique sample.

125 cc RC 149 Grand Prix

In the sixties, the Japanese manufacturers became more popular in Europe. In the world championships of the 125 cc class there was a big technological battle.

Moto Guzzi

The engineers of Moto Guzzi have been some of the most creative in the motorcycle industry. The 500 cc V8 Grand Prix, designed by Giulio Carnaco, is evidence of this.

Gilera Rondine

The Gilera Rondine was designed by Taruffi, and was very advanced for its time. The model was an inspiration for the next generation of Italian motorcycles, and for the Japanese.

Czechoslovakia

Already in the beginning of the 20th century Czechoslovakia was playing an important role in the European motor industry with many original ideas. In 1905, Laurent Klement (later Skoda) had a four cylinder chain-driven motorbike. The BD_Praga from 1927 was the first motorbike with DOHC, 39 years before Honda had one. A Czech motorcycle was in 1923 the first with an electrical starte

Arlen Ness,

The Californian motorspecialist Arlen Ness, the best Harley-Davidson tuner, had only one dream: to built worlds biggest dragster. After five years this dream came true.

AJS motor 2009

The legendary British trademark AJS was started in 1909 by machine manufacturer Joe Stevens in Wolverhampton. In the thirties, AJS was one of the companies which knew the right way to build multi-cylinder engines. The age of single cylinder motorcycles seemed to have passed, for racers as well as touring models.

The Morini Corsaro

The Morini Corsaro 1200 Veloce also gets revised fuel injection to smooth out the throttle delivery and improve fuel efficiency and a fully adjustable Ohlins rear shock.

Hyosung GT650

Engine
Engine: 4-stroke, water-cooled, V-twin 8-Valve
Displacement: 647 cc
Carburetor: MIKUNI-BDSR39
Starter system: Electric
Clutch: Wet Multi-Plate Type
Gear Box: 6 speed

2009 Buell Blast

The Buell Blast is a motorcycle any rider will enjoy. This lightweight single inspires confidence in beginners, yet offers enough power and refined agility to satisfy the performance expectations of the most experienced motorcyclist. Easy to own and maintain - and easy on fuel at 68 miles per gallon - the Buell Blast is a fun and economical way to get around town or down the highway.

The XGames Xperience

Description: Taken at The XGames Xperience at Disney's California Adventure on opening day July 1st. Nikon D1x, 17-35mm 2.8, 1/500th @ f8. I motordrived 5 photos from a fixed position and blended them together in Photoshop 7.0.

Yamaha V-Max 2009

Since the very first Yamaha V-Max was introduced way back in 1984, the motorcycle scene has seen countless changes. The V-Max, though, has remained steadfast in its ways, surviving right on through the break off of Star Motorcycles from its Yamaha parent. A look at Star Motorcycle's current website shows a V-Max from 2007 that is almost exactly the same as the first edition was all those years ago. That will soon change. Although the official

Aprilia RSV 1000R

Engine
Type: V60 Magnesium four stroke longitudinal 60° V twin. Liquid cooling with three way pressurised circuit. Double overhead camshaft with mixed gear/chain drive; four valves per cylinder. Patented AVDC (Anti Vibration Double Countershaft).
Fuel: 95 RON unleaded petrol.
Bore and stroke: 97 x 67.5 mm.
Displacement: 997.62 cc.
Compression ratio: 11.8 : 1.

• 2009 KTM 990 Adventure S

The 990 Adventure S is impressive proof of just how sporty a street enduro can be. The chassis is even more extreme than the sister bike, the 990 Adventure, while the new engine has more displacement and electronic fuel injection. The “Dakar” design is a clear signal that the 990 Adventure S comes directly from rally sport.

2009 Honda CBR600RR

All of the changes I make to this bike are meant to make the bike run better, faster, stronger and in more control and comfort without wasting money. If it really makes the bike work better, I will do it. If it is just for show or is a misplaced hop up (ie. full race exhaust system on a street bike) then I will not do it. I hope to explain what I am doing and show pictures to elaborate. For a better understanding of why I am doing some of these things, see my main motorcycle page at www.peterverdonedesigns.com/motorcycle.htm.

2009 Yamaha WR250X

Yamaha WR250X 2008 Yamaha WR250X 2008 Yamaha WR250X 2008 Yamaha WR250X 2008 Yamaha WR250X • 2008 Yamaha WR250X 2008 Yamaha WR250X The fun factor hits redline! The 2008 Yamaha WR250X is not just a dressed up dual sport machine. The all new WR250X is the real deal... a 250cc machine capable of competing in Supermoto events right out o

• 2009 BMW K1200GT

Tour at blazing speed in total comfort

Cycle World's 'Best Sport-touring Bike for 2006,' the K 1200 GT features the new BMW Duolever front suspension, optional ESA and a transversely-mounted in-line 4-cyinder engine offering a whopping 152 bhp. It also has height-adjustable handlebars, a narrower design, and an adjustable saddle. Point it at the horizon and swallow huge chunks of highway mile after mile, because sport touring has never been this thrilling.

BMW F800GS

Ready to rip, ready to rule.

This fall, the legendary GS gets even more legendary with the incredible new F 800 GS. It's lean. It's mean. It's ready to tackle everything from dual sport rides in the woods or desert to long-haul adventure touring. With a lightweight design and eye-opening power, The F 800 GS is the most off-road oriented GS ever built. A parallel twin engine with 85 charging horses and 62 lb/feet of torque give it startling speed and breathtaking acceleration. Throw in a dry weight of just 392 lbs, six-speed gear box, switchable ABS, wide foot rests and a 4.2 gallon tank located under the seat for a low center of gravity, and you get a enduro light enough for amazing handling no matter where you're headed. If you want all the capabilities of the GS in a lighter, tighter, totally aggressive package, the destined-to-be-a-classic F 800 GS is your ride

2009 BMW K1200LT

2 Power Sockets

5 Speed Gearbox with Overdrive and Reverse Gear

ABS - Full Integral

Adjustable Brake and Clutch Levers

Adjustable Rider's Seat

Adjustable Ventilation for Rider's Area

Anti-Theft Alarm

Audio Sound System w/RDS Radio, Single CD Drive, Digital Display, 8 Loudspeakers w/Rider and Passenger Control

Black Seat

Central Locking

Chrome Package

Closed Loop Catalytic Converter

Cruise Control

Diagnostic Interface

Dual Horn

Electrically Adjustable Windshield

Electro-Hydraulic Center Stand

Floor Lighting

Hazard Warning Flashers

Heated Hand Grips

Heated Seats and Passenger Backrest

Intercom System

Low-Beam Headlamp Height Adjustment

Multifunctional Display

On-Board Computer

Preparation for BMW Motorrad Navigator

Rear Suspension Strut with travel dependent damping (WAD)

Single Key Locking System

Soft Touch Seat

Complete Stainless Steel Exhaust System

Top Case Rack with Brake Light

Xenon Light

High Windshield

Accessories:

Inner bags for pannier cases and top case

Tank utility pouch with map compartment

Variable-height pillion footboards, chromed

Additional side and rear power sockets

(set)

BMW Motorrad Navigator

Chrome adjustable footrest

• 2009 Suzuki Hayabusa GSX1300R

Ever since we introduced the Suzuki Hayabusa, it's had only one competitor: Itself. That's why the new 2008 Hayabusa is so impressive - compared to the original, it's hotter than ever. For enthusiasts, that comparison will make your heart pound. The new Hayabusa's engine is thoroughly updated for more power and an improved power-to-weight ratio, which you'll experience as an even greater rush of acceleration. Its refined chassis and suspension help provide crisper handling. And its striking new fairing offers sleeker aerodynamics. The original Hayabusa was the best. With the 2008 Hayabusa, you're looking at better than the best.

• 2008 KTM 990 Super Duke Weiss White

990 Super Duke R
ENGINE
DISPLACEMENT
BORE X STROKE
PERFORMANCE
MAX. TORQUE
COMPRESSION RATIO

2-cylinder, 4-stroke, V 75°
999 cc
101/62.4 mm
97 kW @ 10,000 U/min
102 Nm @ 8,000 U/min
11.5 : 1




STARTER
TRANSMISSION
FUEL MIXTURE GENERATION
CONTROL
LUBRICATION
ENGINE LUBRICATION

E-Starter
6 gears, claw-shift
Electronic fuel injection
4-valve /DOHC
Forced oil lubrication
Motorex Power Synt 4T 10W - 50


PRIMARY DRIVE
FINAL DRIVE

67 : 35
16 : 38



COOLING
CLUTCH
MOTOR MANAGEMENT
CHASSIS
FRAME
SUBFRAME
HANDLEBAR
FRONT SUSPENSION
REAR SUSPENSION
SUSPENSION TRAVEL FRONT/ REAR

Liquid cooled
Multi-disc wet clutch, hydraulically operated
Keihin EMS
Chromium-Molybdenum tubular frame, powder-coated
Aluminium
Renthal Aluminium, tapered
WP-USD Ø 48 mm
WP-Monoshock
135/150 mm



FRONT BRAKE
REAR BRAKE
RIMS FRONT/ REAR
TYRES FRONT/ REAR
CHAIN

2 x Brembo 4-piston fixed caliper,
2 x brake discs Ø 320 mm
Brembo single-piston floating caliper,
brake disc Ø 240 mm
3.5 x 17"; 5.5 x 17"
120/70 ZR 17"; 180/55 ZR 17"
X-Ring chain 5/8 x 5/16"



BATTERY
SILENCER
STEERING HEAD ANGLE
TRAIL
WHEEL BASE
GROUND CLEARANCE (UNLOADED)
SEAT HEIGHT
TANK CAPACITY
WEIGHT (READY TO RACE)

12 V/11.2 Ah
Stainless steel with catalytic converter
67.3°
93.9 mm
1,450 mm
140 mm
865 mm
approx. 18.5 litre
approx. 186 kg (no fuel)

• 2009 Yamaha YZF-R6 C.E. Canadian Edition

Confidence, agility, performance... maximum excitement for maximum fun.

The engineers at Yamaha had 2 main goals for the new 2008 Yamaha R6. To be the most exciting bike to race on the track and to be the most fun sport bike to ride on a winding road. Even at full lean, the new 2008 Yamaha R6 allows the rider to dial up the throttle and sling shot out of a corner. Confidence, agility, performance and fun.

Cutting edge champion - Almost anywhere you look on the 2008 R6 you'll find something new, including YCC-I, Yamaha Chip Controlled Intake. It's bristling with loads of refinements and knowledge gained from years of racing. You can confidently say the YZF-R6 C.E. Canadian Edition is the most advanced production 600cc motorcycle Yamaha - or anybody else - has ever built.

Yamaha has re-invented the all new 2008 R6 with a showcase of Yamaha's latest sport bike technologies.

From the YCC-T fly by wire throttle to the MotoGP inspired straight frame design, to Yamaha's exclusive electronically variable intake stacks, this new R6 featuring a new engine and frame is designed to take super sport riding to a whole new level.

• 2009 Yamaha FZ1

Serious performance, all day comfort.

The 2008 Yamaha FZ1 a cutting edge sport bike with a twist. Unlike most other machines in this class, the FZ1 features state of the art engine and chassis designs.

Our ultimate street brawler brings 998cc of fuel-injected previous generation R1 power to the fray, in a light and strong aluminum frame.

Crunch the numbers, do the math and then take a seat aboard the world's best "naked" sport bike.

Surprisingly comfortable eh? You are looking at one of the best values in Yamaha's 2008 line-up. The FZ1 offers exceptional open class performance with cutting style. R1 inspired power, fuel injection, twin spar aluminum frame and fully adjustable suspension. The FZ1 is a serious sport bike that offers an exceptionally comfortable and exciting riding experience.

2009 Yamaha WR250X

Yamaha WR250X 2008 Yamaha WR250X 2008 Yamaha WR250X 2008 Yamaha WR250X 2008 Yamaha WR250X • 2008 Yamaha WR250X 2008 Yamaha WR250X The fun factor hits redline! The 2008 Yamaha WR250X is not just a dressed up dual sport machine. The all new WR250X is the real deal... a 250cc machine capable of competing in Supermoto events right out o