Etc.
etc.
HAVE BAGS, WILL TRAVEL
Everybody knows a windscreen and saddlebags are top mods for most cruisers, which is why Honda VTX1300 fans will be happy to know they can buy such a machine so equipped right from the factory. New for 2008, the VTX1300T also features a 2-into-2 exhaust system with bullet mufflers, restyled fenders and a chrome passenger backrest. The bags? Leather, of course. The T model costs $10,999 in black or $11,999 in metallic red or metallic silver.
CRF DUAL SPORT
Lightweight playbikes have always been a pile of fun, and Honda has taken it to the street with the $4499 CRF23OL dual-sport machine. Based, naturally, on the dirt-only CRF23OF, the bike features the same air-cooled engine and six-speed transmission, not to mention electric starting, but is now equipped with DOT-approved lighting. Also standard is a USDA approved spark-arrestor. Couldn't have happened to a nicer playbike.
EMERGENCY BIKES
Cities in Florida and Pennsylvania already know the life-saving benefits of putting paramedics on motorcycles. Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels hopes to bring the faster response times, greater agillty and ease of getting through snarled traffic to the citizens of his city. First step in the proposed pro gram is to run the specially out fitted Harley-Davidson Road Kings in the downtown area for two years as a test and, if successful, expand the program. Maybe loud pipes do save lives...
YAMAHA’S NEW X
Yamaha has two new options for those seeking a lightweightSingle fit: the 2008 WR250X ($5999) and WR250R ($5899). A resurgence of the dual-sport market and the growing popularity of Supermoto prompted the creation of these machines. Although the aluminum frame, 17-inch wheels and fully adjustable suspension of the 250X give the bike its visual identity, an all-new fuel-injected 250cc engine with Ti intake valves and forged piston makes sure its personality is more than skin deep. If your riding entails more dirt and less pavement, the off-road-ready 250R, with its knobby-shod 21/18-inch wheels and increased ground clearance might be more suitable. Another option: The Serow-based XT250 is a great all-rounder at an affordable $4399 price. A new, larger engine and updated styling highlight this long-time favorite.
BEER RUN
Miller Brewing Company has teamed with the AMA to promote safe motorcycle riding and responsible alcohol consumption. Called “Keep Your Balance,” the national program was launched this past September at the annual Tomahawk Fall Ride in Miller’s home state of Wisconsin. “Our goal with Keep Your Balance is to provide motorcycle enthusiasts and local retailers with information about how to reduce irresponsible riding due to over-consumption of alcohol, unsafe riding practices or insufficient training,” said Diane Wagner, Miller’s alcohol responsibility manager.
