Watsonian-Squire – history in the making

I've just published on www.inter-bike.co.uk a fascinating article on the history of Watsonian-Squire. Fo those of who don't know, they are Britain’s longest surviving motorcycle sidecar manufacturer and also who retail the Royal Enfield range of classic motorcycles in the UK. The article charts the history of this, one of the last great survivors of the British motorcycle industry from 1912 to the current day.


Ride safe!

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

2007 Buell Ulysses XB12X Road test

If you like you bikes on the edge in the raw, then I've just put my road test of Buell's intoxicating Buell Ulyssess XB12X up on www.inter-bike.co.uk

Read why I think the XB12X is worth the morning after hangover!

Ride safe!

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

2008 Suzuki Hayabusa

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.



New
Redesigned instrument cluster now features four analog meters for speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge and water temperature with a new S-DMS mode indicator, gear position indicator and adjustable engine rpm indicator.
New Engine
New 1340cc, DOHC liquid-cooled engine with 16-valves, Twin Swirl Combustion Chambers provides 11% higher performance and smoother operation
New Suzuki SDTV fuel injection system with dual injectors per cylinder and ram air intake with large volume airbox
New S-DMS (Suzuki Drive Mode Selector) allows the rider to choose from three different engine settings depending on riding conditions or rider preferences
New lightweight titanium intake and exhaust valves with narrow 14 degree valve angle for high combustion chamber efficiency
New lightweight aluminum alloy pistons feature a revised shape and a higher compression ratio of 12.5:1 for maximum performance in all conditions.
SCEM (Suzuki Composite Electro-chemical Material) plated cylinders minimize cylinder size and improve heat dissipation and new hydraulic cam chain tensioner for reduced mechanical noise
New ventilation holes at the cylinder skirt for reduced pumping losses and increased performance
High efficiency curved radiator now features dual electric fans controlled by the ECM for increased cooling capacity. Oil cooler now has 10 rows cores for increased heat dissipation.
New large volume 4-2-1-2 exhaust system with a large capacity catalyzer, dual triangular canisters and closed loop system that meets Euro 3 and Tier 2 regulations
New Shot-peened chrome-moly steel connecting rods for maximum durability
Ion plating treatment utilizing PVD (physical vapor deposit) method is applied to piston rings providing a smoother surface treatment for increased durability, reduced friction loss and reduced oil consumption
Slick shifting 6 speed transmission working in conjunction with an innovative back torque limiting clutch for smooth and controlled downshifts
New Chassis
All new aggressive aerodynamic fairing design with low drag coefficient retains it's signature Hayabusa look and features an updated, muscular look to work with the new more powerful engine and updated chassis
New fully adjustable inverted front fork featuring DLC coated inner tubes for minimal friction resistance and outstanding suspension performance over a variety of riding conditions.
Fully adjustable rear shock absorber with a 43mm piston and 14mm rod diameter
Lightweight and rigid twin-spar aluminum frame minimizes weight while maintaining high torsional strength
New bridged aluminum alloy swingarm features a new cross-sectional shape for increased rigidity and to cope with improved rear tire grip and increased engine output
New radial-mount front brake calipers for maximum braking performance and allows for smaller 310mm front brake rotors resulting in reduced unsprung weight and improved handling
Lightweight single piston rear brake caliper working in conjunction with a new larger 260mm rear brake disc
Newly designed wheels mounted with high performance Bridgestone BT-015 tires for unmatched handling and control
Passenger seat and rear subframe are lowered for improved passenger comfort
Fuel tank height is lowered to allow riders helmet to tuck in and windscreen height is increased for improved wind protection and optimum aerodynamic efficiency with the rider in place.
Newly designed vertically stacked twin headlights provide increased light intensity, improved light distribution and match the elegant flow of the new Hayabusa styling.
LED taillight utilizes a double lens structure with a clear inner lens and a red outer lens for maximum visibility and a high quality finish

Specs
Engine: 1340cc, 4-stroke, four-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve, TSCC
Bore Stroke: 81.0 x 65.0mm
Compression Ratio: 12.5:1
Fuel System: Fuel Injection
Lubrication: Wet sump
Ignition: Digital/Transistorized
Transmission: 6-speed, constant mesh
Final Drive: #530 chain
Overall Length: 2195mm (86.6 in.)
Overall Width: 740mm (29.1 in.)
Overall Height: 1170mm (46.1 in.)
Seat Height: 805mm (31.7 in.)
Ground Clearance: 120mm (4.7 in.)
Wheelbase: 1485mm (58.5 in.)
Dry Weight: 220 kg (485 lbs)
Suspension Front: Inverted telescopic, coil spring, fully adjustable spring preload, adjustable rebound damping and adjustable compression damping
Suspension Rear: Link-type, gas/oil damped, fully adjustable spring preload, adjustable compression & rebound damping
Brakes Front: Dual hydraulic disc
Brakes Rear: Single hydraulic disc
Tires Front: 120/70-ZR-17
Tires Rear: 190/50-ZR-17
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21 liter (5.5 gal.) 20.0 liter (5.3 gal.) CA. model
Color: Orange/Black, Black/Gray, Blue/Black

2008 Honda Shadow Spirit C2

With its low-slung saddle, forward foot controls and street-rod-style handlebars, the 2008 Honda Shadow Spirit C2 gives motorcycling newcomers a chopper feel without the chopper price. Or the chopper discomforts.

The wide, gunfighter-style seat is positioned deep in the frame and 25.7 inches off the deck, so even the shortest rider can feel tall in the saddle. It's soft as well.


As my initial ride of about 90 miles was winding down, I didn't have to get up off the seat at a stoplight to restore feeling in my hips or tuchis. Give credit to the five-position adjustable shocks, too.

The forward pedals let the rider stretch the legs and lean back a little. But I found the peg-shifter relationship somewhat tight, which caused a distressing moment when my boot got stuck while downshifting on approach to a stoplight. I momentarily lost my balance, nearly dropping the bike. Blame operator error.

The narrow front tire at the end of the long, raked forks has a bigger diameter than the rear, reminiscent of the Harley Dyna Wide Glide. The long wheelbase and light weight give it responsive road manners, requiring little input from the rider to keep it in line. Twin calipers on the front disc brake and the rear drum were plenty strong to bring me to a stop.

The 749cc V-twin engine is plenty willing. Even in the top fifth gear, there was ample power funneled through the new constant velocity carburetor to keep the shaft drive humming on I-15's long uphill grade north of San Diego. There was plenty of pull off the line from a stop, and shifts were smooth. The Spirit makes its case for commuters: On my first tank of 87-octane, I averaged 42 miles per gallon.

Controls are basic, which is to be expected on an entry-level machine that is tagged at less than $7,000. The tank-mounted speedometer is a little low; I had to bow my head slightly to take a peek, and that could be enough time for some road gremlin to sneak up and disrupt the ride. I also missed not having a tachometer. The digital odometer includes two trip meters.

This Honda takes on qualities often seen in customized rides, such as the tank's flame paint scheme, the taillight integrated with the fender, chrome handlebars, air cleaner and side covers. The staggered pipes complete the chopper look and produce a subtle, throaty roar that won't threaten a decibel meter.

The Ultra Blue Metallic test bike did not carry any accessories, but there are plenty available from Honda, including a windscreen, three styles of leather saddlebags and other pouches, backrests, guards and a digital audio system, among other items. Expect an abundance of goodies from the aftermarket companies, too.

After all, that's what the chopper spirit is all about - making your ride your own.

Joe Taylor is a Union-Tribune copy editor for the Wheels section and a motorcycle enthusiast.



SPECIFICATION

2008 Honda Shadow Spirit C2

Engine: 745cc, SOHC liquid-cooled V-twin with three valves per cylinder

Transmission: wide-ratio five-speed

Fuel tank: 3.7 gallons, including 0.9-gallon reserve

Seat height: 25.7 inches

Base price: $6,799; with tank flames, $7,099 (US expected market price)

one week in Pune and around

The odometer showed something 1400kms odd.I hoped to cover next 600 kms in my Pune trip before the 2nd servicing was due.And that I did,at the end of the my pune trip odometer is showing 2400kms! 380 Out of those 1000 kms I clocked in one day,that too on hilly roads of Pune-Konkan(diwe-aagar to be exact) on Saturday 25th august.Just a day before I had got my bike serviced from ProBiking,FC road.
There were no serious problems as such save faulty gauge which wasn't repaired in 1st service due to non availability of fuel sensors.
If you are curious about what happened to long awaited fuel-gauge issue's result,there's bad news.Those sensors are still not available meaning that I have to wait even more before they replace it.

But otherwise the everything was pleasant.They delivered my bike in 1.5hours flat.I waited there itself and watched my bike getting serviced.
So nothing special about 2nd service.What happened after it,is exciting.The bike became even more smooth and its acceleration noticeably improved.Besides the gear shifts which were a bit too clunky to my choice,smoothened out.
(*Special note - people who drain the oil (which ProBiking people fill in) and put in their choiced oil like Motul/valvoline or any other brand here's a good news for you.The ProBiking now houses Motul 3000t oil as standard.So each bike they now fill up with Motul with no extra cost.This oil is supposed to be long lasting and give more performance,although I could not verify it)



Now coming back to my konkan tour.There were only two of us besides of course my P200.
We started our journey in morning itself at 8am.The destination we chose(diwe-aagar) is 150kms from pune.
Right from start we witnessed some scenic views and clouds were floating literally on the roads.
Every kilometer of that whole stretch runs through mountains.A perfect road for any tourer.There aren't many fuel stations though so be wary of the fact and fill up your tank up to the brim.
Once we reached diwe-aagar we did normal rituals.Like finding a good inn to have lunch.
You have to tell them in advance to cook the food.These are not regular run of the mill hotels.Instead these inns are family owned eateries.You get finest of fish recipies here.
As for the sea and beach front, I can't really comment.All the beaches in Konkan are so good that favouring one of them will be an insult to others.So I will just say this is one of my favorites.
But alas,due to rainy season the sea is too risky and water is muddy.Local people advised not to go in the water.As you may have guessed these people know probably a hundred times better than us.So we did not dare to cross check their claim,and remained on sand itself while watching the roaring sea.
However,Instead of writing everything,I will let the pictures do the talking.

This is somewhere en route to konkan

The famous tamhini ghaat.

The road to clouds.

Mulshi lake.

Diwe-aagar beach,bewitchingly empty.There were only 3 of us.Me,chetan and the 200.

The sea was dangerous to say the least.Parked my P200 well off the water.

Clicking a self portrait is tough job.


Clicking in macro mode is even more tough!The fish that we didn't catch!
(The furious sea had pushed hundreds of fishes onto the beach most of them died since the sea never reached them again)
The morning was sunny and no rains while we reached there.Bike remained clean even after 150 kms of journey.
That provided for nice photos.




Riding on sand is fun.Check out that grin on my face!
Even a slightest push on brake pedal leaves a huge scar on sand.Fabulous.But strictly no to Front disc.You will be knee deep in the sand even before you realise.

Now the question arises,whether P200 is a good touring machine?
Just to say it is one terrific tourer will be an understatement.It is so good that never once did I feel something missing.Not even once.
Handling and suspension is near perfect for typical Indian roads(even with pillion).
Disc brake worked like magic even though most of the time it was soaked in water most of the time.
The whole journey it took into its stride as if it were regular city roads.The occasional potholes,pools of water,loose gravel,mud,sand not withstanding.P200 rode through all this like anything.
Not only this, I really opened the throttle open whenever I got the chance.And after all this torment she returned 42kmpl.Now seriously what more can you ask for?
I know a serious tourer will hardly care for fuel efficiency,once he is astride his beloved machine.But still it amazed me.
The only gripes I felt were slightly hard seat and those grab-rails.After riding continuously for 4 hours my bum started aching and I needed to stop and descend from the bike.Besides,Those grab-rails can be best termed as fashion accessory.All show and no go.Clutching them for support is useless.You just can't hold onto them.But these are really insignificant glitches and almost non existent.P200's other virtues more than make up for it.

The question is answered then.P200 is one of those rare breeds which can handle almost anything you throw at, with ease.She is a top notch motorcycle and I will bet my last penny on it.

This is what 200 leaves behind...

Amazing pictures of Troy Corser crash at Redgate

Well the new motorcycling content just keeps on coming on www.inter-bike.co.uk. Have just put a fantastic world superbike picture gallery of ten pictures kindly donated by amateur photographer Nick Cook, showing in stop frame detail Troy Corser's crash at Redgate at the start of his superpole lap in the 2007 World Superbike Championship (WSB) at Donington Park. An amazing set of pictures. The gallery is also backed by another great track entitled appropriately "Standstill" from British Rock band - Electric River.

Hope you enjoy the pics and the music.

Ride safe!

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

Honda CBR 1000 RR7: 2007

Unique features

• Liquid-cooled 998cc inline four-cylinder engine.
• Aluminum frame patterned after the RC211V(R) MotoGP machine.
• Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD) for optimum steering effort and stability.
• Cassette-type close-ratio six-speed transmission.
• Centrally located fuel tank increases mass centralization and allows more compact frame design.
• Radial-mounted front brakes.
• Center-up exhaust system.
• Unit Pro-Link(TM) rear suspension and swingarm design inspired by RC211V.
• Line-beam headlight features three-piece reflector design.
• Dual Stage Fuel Injection (DSFI) system features two injectors per cylinder.
• Aggressive styling based on the championship-winning RC211V MotoGP machine.

Engine/Drivetrain

• Liquid-cooled DOHC 16-valve 998cc four-stroke inline four-cylinder engine features bore-and-stroke dimensions of 75mm x 56.5mm.
• Sixteen-valve cylinder head features 29mm intake and 24mm exhaust valves with a 12.2:1 compression ratio for efficient combustion and high horsepower.
• Intake valve features double-spring design for optimum performance at high rpm.
• Direct shim-under-bucket valve actuation system ensures high-rpm durability and allows 16,000-mile valve maintenance intervals.
• Lightweight nutless connecting rods.
• Iridium-tip spark plugs improve fuel combustion and performance.
• DSFI system features two injectors per cylinder--one upper and one lower--controlled by an electronic control unit (ECU) that senses rpm and throttle opening. Lower injector enhances rideability while upper injector improves top-end horsepower. At lower rpm only the lower injector is working. At higher rpm, both injectors are activated. The system uses 44mm throttle bodies.
• Denso injectors with lightweight valving for faster reaction time and 12 holes per injector improve atomization of fuel mixture for optimum combustion efficiency and power.
• Auto-enriching system is integrated into programmed fuel injection (PGM-FI) module, eliminating the need for a manual choke.
• Forged aluminum pistons with moly surface treatment for reduced friction.
• Aluminum composite cylinder sleeves are high-pressure-formed from sintered aluminum powder impregnated with ceramic and graphite. The lightweight composite sleeves provide better wear resistance and superior heat dissipation compared to conventional sleeves.
• ECU provides two digital 3-D fuel-injection maps for each cylinder and two digital 3-D ignition maps for cylinder pairs, creating ideal fuel mixture and spark advance settings for superb rideability.
• Ram-air system allows high volume of cool air to the 8.35-liter airbox for linear power delivery and incredible engine performance.
• Stainless steel four-into-two-into-one center-up exhaust with twin outlets and titanium core increases lean angle and reduces wind drag.
• Liquid-cooled aluminum oil cooler is lightweight and efficient.
• Magnesium ACG cover for lighter weight.
• Maintenance-free automatic cam-chain tensioner.
• Starter gears located on the right side to produce narrow engine and increased lean angle.
• Eight-plate clutch is compact and tough, featuring durable friction plate material.
• Cassette-type, close-ratio six-speed transmission is easily accessible for rapid gear ratio changes and maintenance at the race track.
• Durable #530 O-ring-sealed drive chain.

Chassis/Suspension

• Lightweight, twin-spar aluminum frame utilizes RC211V technology.
• Aluminum-hybrid rear swingarm is longest in class for superior traction under hard acceleration.
• New aluminum subframe is lightweight and easily removed for ease of maintenance.
• HESD is a rotary-type steering damper that electronically modulates steering damping based on road speed and acceleration. An ECU senses road speed and acceleration and then sends a signal to a solenoid. The solenoid controls an oil-pressure relief valve within the damper unit. At slower speeds the relief valve is open, allowing for a free flow of oil through the damper unit, resulting in reduced damping force and lighter steering effort. At higher speeds the flow of oil is restricted, resulting in increased damping force and additional stability. HESD is the first steering-damping system that makes it possible to increase high-speed performance while maintaining low-speed handling.
• 43mm inverted aluminum-slider Honda Multi-Action System (HMAS) cartridge front fork features spring preload and rebound and compression damping adjustability, and offers precise action and unparalleled rigidity.
• Unit Pro-Link rear suspension system is patterned after the RC211V MotoGP machine. In this system, the upper shock mount is contained within the swingarm rather than the frame. With no top frame mount for the shock, this unique system reduces negative suspension energy from being transmitted into the frame, allowing optimum frame rigidity and improved rideability out of corners. The HMAS shock offers rebound and compression damping and spring preload adjustability.
• Front-brake system features radial-mounted four-piston calipers and 320mm floating discs, and a 220mm rear disc with a single-piston caliper for exceptional stopping power.
• Super-light, aluminum-alloy hollow-spoke wheels feature race-spec 3.5 x 17-inch front and 6.0 x 17-inch rear dimensions.
• Centrally mounted 4.8-gallon fuel tank is positioned low in the frame, increasing mass centralization and allowing a more compact design. This design positions the rider farther forward for optimum handling.

Additional Features

• High-capacity 350-watt AC generator.
• High-tech instrument display features tachometer, LCD readouts for speedometer, coolant temperature, odometer, two tripmeters and a clock. A low-fuel LED light and shift-indicator light is located in the tachometer.
• Line-beam headlight features three-piece reflector design utilizing two H7 bulbs for optimum light distribution and unique compact design.
• LED taillights for improved appearance.
• Plastic tank shell cover protects tank and airbox.
• One-piece fan assembly increases cooling efficiency.
• Convenient ignition switch/fork lock for added security.
• Folding aerodynamic mirrors.
• Handlebar switches and controls use internationally approved ISO graphic symbols.
• Convenient push-to-cancel turn-signal switch.
• Maintenance-free battery.
• Transferable one-year, unlimited-mileage limited warranty; extended coverage available with a Honda Protection Plan.

Honda CBR 600 RR : 2007

The CBR®600's most radical redesign since the introduction of the RR in 2003 is highlighted by a whole new engine, frame and bodywork that results in a smaller, lighter, more-powerful CBR600RR with a class-leading power-to-weight ratio and unparalleled performance.









Features & Benefits

New for 2007

- Class-leading power-to-weight ratio for outstanding acceleration and handling.

- Smaller, lighter, more compact inline four-cylinder engine.


- Improved midrange performance and enhanced peak power.

- Significant weight reduction in engine and chassis.

- Repositioned transmission shafts within crankcase allow for shorter engine.

- New lightweight, forged-aluminum pistons incorporate special shot peening for added toughness.

- Lightweight magnesium head cover.

- New, single exhaust valve-springs.

- Smaller, lighter neodium magnet ACG.

- New transmission gear ratios.

- Smaller, lighter clutch.

- New front-brake vertical-piston master-cylinder system.

- Lighter weight stainless steel four-into-one exhaust features new inline-exhaust valve to control exhaust pressure for maximum performance.

- New intake-air control valve (IACV) minimizes torque reaction and smoothes response to small throttle changes through gradual reductions of air and fuel intake when the throttle is opened and closed.

- New non-resonance knock sensor maintains optimum spark advance while constantly monitoring combustion performance during mid- to high-speed operation.

- New nose-mounted ram-air induction directs fresh, cool air to a higher-volume airbox.

- New smaller and lighter Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD).

- Newly designed Fine Die-Cast (FDC) frame uses four large castings for lighter weight.

- Improved mass centralization.

- Redesigned radiator with compact dimensions improves cooling capacity.

- All-new bodywork enhances handling and performance.

- Handlebars raised 10mm for improved rider comfort.

- Center of gravity revised for more neutral response and easier side-to-side flickability.

- New, compact instrument design.

- Exciting new colors--Pearl White/Silver and Ultra Blue Metallic/Silver--join Red/Black and Black as color options.



Unique features

- Unit Pro-Link™ rear suspension and swingarm design inspired by RC211V®.

- Dual Stage Fuel Injection (DSFI) system features two injectors per cylinder.

- High-revving engine redlines at 15,000 rpm.

- MotoGP-style RC211V center-up exhaust system.

- Radial-mount front brake calipers combined with radial actuated master cylinder.

- 41mm Honda Multi-Action System (HMAS) inverted front fork.

- Centrally located fuel tank increases mass centralization and allows more compact frame design.

- Line beam headlights feature three-piece reflector design.



Engine/Drivetrain

- Liquid-cooled DOHC 16-valve 599cc four-stroke inline four-cylinder engine features oversquare bore and stroke of 67mm x 42.5mm.

- Intake port surface treatment revised for improved efficiency.

- Oil jet relocated beneath piston for additional friction reduction and cooling.

- Iridium-tip spark plugs improve fuel combustion and performance.

- DSFI system features 40mm throttle bodies and two injectors per cylinder--one upper and one lower--controlled by an electronic control system (ECU) that senses rpm and throttle opening. Lower injector enhances rideability while upper injector improves top-end horsepower.

- Denso 12 hole injectors deliver finely atomized fuel mixture for optimum combustion efficiency and power.

- Auto enrichment system is integrated into programmed fuel injection (PGM-FI) module, eliminating the need for a manual choke.

- Two-stage ram-air system provides high volume of cool air to the airbox for linear power delivery and incredible engine performance.

- Cylinder head features angled valve insets to improve airflow.

- Cylinder head features two springs per intake valve and one spring per exhaust valve for optimum high-rpm valve operation and durability.

- Direct shim-under-bucket valve actuation ensures high-rpm performance and durability with 16,000-mile maintenance intervals.

- Lighter pistons and lighter, nutless connecting rods contribute to quicker acceleration.

- Double-pivot tensioner for cam-chain durability.

- Right-side starter gears allow increased lean angle.

- Smooth-shifting close-ratio six-speed transmission with new gear ratios is closely matched to the engine's powerband.



Chassis/Suspension

n -41mm inverted HMAS cartridge front fork features spring preload, rebound and compression damping adjustability for precise action.
n -Unit Pro-Link rear suspension system is patterned after RC211V GP racer. In this two-piece shock system, the upper shock mount is contained within the swingarm rather than the frame. With no top frame mount for the shock, this unique system reduces negative suspension energy from being transmitted into the frame, allowing optimum frame rigidity and improved rideability out of corners.

- Braking system features twin four-piston radial-mounted front calipers, dual 310mm front discs and a single 220mm rear disc for optimum stopping power.

- New vertical-piston master-cylinder system produces superior leverage ratio at the front brake lever for higher braking efficiency with excellent feel and controllability. This layout permits the use of a longer brake lever, which means more braking force with less effort from the rider.

- Lighter aluminum steering stem.



Additional Features

- Industry-leading ergonomic design features maximum rider comfort for minimum fatigue in all riding conditions.

- Centrally mounted 4.8-gallon fuel tank is positioned low in the frame, increasing mass centralization and allowing a more compact design.

- Plastic tank shell cover protects tank and airbox.

- Line-beam headlights feature three-piece reflector design utilizing two H7 bulbs for optimum light distribution and a unique compact design.

- New instrumentation is very compact and features LCD panel with tachometer, odometer, twin tripmeters speedometer, fuel gauge and clock.

- Attractive, hollow-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels feature race-spec 3.5 x 17.0-inch front and 5.5 x 17.0-inch rear dimensions.

- One-piece fan assembly for maximum cooling efficiency.

- Maintenance-free battery.

- Optional seat cowl.

- Compact rear cowl storage compartment for U-type locking devices (lock not included) under the passenger seat.

- Pivoting, aerodynamic mirrors.

- Integrated ignition-switch/fork lock for added security.

- Convenient push-to-cancel turn-signal switch.

- Transferable one-year, unlimited mileage limited warranty; extended coverage available with a Honda Protection Plan.

- Purchase of a new, previously unregistered Honda unit by an individual retail user in the United States qualifies the owner for a one-year complimentary membership in the Honda Rider's Club of America® (HRCA®). Benefits include roadside assistance, online access to the Honda Common Service Manual, six issues of the bimonthly Honda Red Rider™ magazine, travel discounts, trip routing and MSF reimbursement, plus access to the HRCA Web site (www.hrca.honda.com).



Specifications

Model: CBR600RR

Engine Type: 599cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder

Bore and Stroke: 67mm x 42.5mm

Compression Ratio: 12.2:1

Valve Train: DOHC; four valves per cylinder

Carburetion: Stage Fuel Injection (DSFI)

Ignition: Computer-controlled digital transistorized with three-dimensional mapping

Transmission: Close-ratio six-speed

Final Drive: #525 O-ring-sealed chain

Suspension
Front: 41mm inverted HMAS cartridge fork with spring preload, rebound and compression damping adjustability; 4.7 inches travel
Rear: Unit Pro-Link HMAS single shock with spring preload, rebound and compression damping adjustability; 5.1 inches travel

Brakes
Front: Dual radial-mounted four-piston calipers with 310mm discs
Rear: Single 220mm disc

Tires
Front: 120/70ZR-17 radial
Rear: 180/55ZR-17 radial

Wheelbase: TBD

Rake (Caster Angle): 23.7°

Trail: 96.3mm (3.8 inches)

Seat Height: 32.3 inches

Dry Weight: TBD

Fuel Capacity: 4.8 gallons, including 0.9-gallon reserve

Colors: Pearl White/Silver, Ultra Blue Metallic/Silver, Red/Black, Black

Meets current EPA standards.

California version meets current CARB standards and may differ slightly due to emissions equipment.

Britain Oldest Bikers!

Motorcycle insurance specialists Bennetts Insurance, reputedly the UK's number one for motorbike insurance have today published an article on Britain's oldest bikers (O.A.B). Its an article that gives us all hope that when we reach these bikers ripe ages we'll still be riding our motorcycles and enjoying them just as much.

They all show what fun motorcycling can be what ever your age!

The full article with pic's is published on www.inter-bike.co.uk at http://www.inter-bike.co.uk/tblnewspop.asp?news=1965

Picture: 79-year-old biker Gordon Snead from Ardrossan


Ride safe!

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

Bulldog Bash 2007

I've just posted on www.inter-bike.co.uk, Ian Kerr's review of this years Bulldog Bash, on of Europe's biggest biker parties. Complete with comprehensive picture slideshow Ian's article will give you the flavour of this years event if you missed, or relive it if you went!

Ride safe!

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

Dead and burried : The classic fork breaking controversy

Ohh I am really sorry my fellow updated-every-minute-bikers,But I must for this damn cool bike's sake invoke the ghost of that fork!( But I hope to clear all doubts this final time so...)
Much has been said about the P200's front forks.Ever since photos of some P200's with broken forks were published on Internet, people, especially the bikers community has been chewing it restlessly.Nothing wrong about it though but one sad aspect that I came across in this whole scene was that people who had never even ridden the bike or seen the broken fork, were maligning the Bajaj's and P200's image by giving "valuable" insights.
And like it happens with every hot issue people got so carried away that they actually forgot (conveniently or not I can't comment) what had Bajaj done in the meantime.
While we were all busy in discussing how P200 is bound to be doomed, Bajaj redesigned the front fork(Or rather the mounting points that hold the Disc brake calipers).These revised P200s were out in the showrooms even before anyone got any hint about it.(or like I said we were too busy to take notice of it).
I along with many other like me, have been writing about this in many other sites,blogs and orkut all along but no one seemed to take notice.The discussions continued as if those comments were written in invisible ink!

But as things stand today,I would really like to tell the world with all my vocal cords strained - that please wake-up and take a look at current scenario.The fork controversy is nothing but a dead meat.
Here are some picture taken off Internet(most of you would have seen it probably a zillion times and don't give a zilch, but just for the sake of it and P200 they are here again!)


Front-fork broken!(what a sorry picture)But forget about it now.Its just for your curiosity.
Notice the 2 separate mounting-points for caliper.


Close-up of previous illustration.

And finally the picture that matters now.See the newer design of mounts,wherein they have been connected to each other by same material as fork itself.

So herein lies the ghost of broken fork.May it R.I.P..Thank you all!!

Great new MotoGP Pictures

Amateur photographer John Day has donated 22 great motogp pictures he took a the British round of the MotoGP Championship at Donington Park in June this year.

In addition as with all the motorcycle picture galleries on www.inter-bike.co.uk, the pictures are backed with a great rock track, appropriately entitled "Combat" from British rock band "Electric River".

You can view them on www.inter-bike.co.uk at http://www.inter-bike.co.uk/gallery.asp?gname=PG41

Enjoy!

Ride safe!

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

Fool-proof remedy for saving your Starter relay! (DIY)

You might have read my unfortunate previous post about starter relay.Here is what I have done to stop the water getting into it.Including the pictures as I promised.

1)Open the left side middle panel
2)Look for starter relay on the left side of the battery.Its small, plastic box in black color and bolted onto the inner part chassis.

3)Pull out the cable and plug from bottom of the relay which connects it to battery.

4)Next remove the bolt that holds relay in place.

5)Take any thick plastic sheet which you find suitable.(like the small oil-pouch that you get at fuel stations)
6)Cut a smaller piece of that sheet.Make sure that it can fully wrap the relay.
7)Wrap the sheet fully around relay leaving the lower part exposed(plug needs to go in there!)
8)Put a hole in the sheet with screw-driver exactly where the relay has(there is a small extention on relay's upper part which has a hole and a nut weld behind it to house the bolt).
In picture below look how the plastic sheet has been tucked inside the bolt-housing along with relays holder-

9)Now holding the sheet and relay together with one hand in its proper position,screw in the bolt with other hand.Then you can use spanner to fully tighten it.
10)Insert the plug again.
this is what final assembly looks like-

11)You are done!Fit the panel.

A few glitches here and there - Starter relay

Well, this was truly unexpected and frightening.OK,I already knew a bit about fuel gauges that didn't work well from my friends pulsars but I never had heard a starter relay that went kaput and that too on day 2...read on-

I came back from pune myself all wet and the bike looking like a she just came from ladakh tour.So naturally next on my agenda was to wash the bike before I show it around.Instead of taking it to washing centre I washed it thoroughly then dried and polished.
showed it to my friends who all had ride on it and were clearly taken by its beauty.
Just then one of my friend reported that tail-lamp were not working besides the orange display was not lit-up.I had no clue about it.We stopped to check and turned off the bike.Then restarted the bike and gosh!The engine started making a terrible sound as if someone was rubbing the insides of engine with a heavy-duty polishing paper!(Frankly speaking I was terrified beyond imagination)what the hell?One of my friend turned ignition off...and ...and even more surprise!The engine went dead all rite but scraping noise continued-YES even after I had turned the ignition off and removed the key from key-hole.
I understood everything in a moment that it was the starter that was still trying to crank the engine despite the fact that the engine kill switch was in off position and ignition turned off.But how?that was beyond me.I just stood there out of my senses.Thankfully one my mate quickly opened the left panel,unlocked the rear seat ,took out tool-kit and dis-engaged the battery.Only then did the starter stopped.
what next I thought?P200 having no kick lever meant that to start the bike either I had to start it down the hill or push it hard.We tried pushing but it didn't start.Only option was to connect the battery.So I turned the ignition on and put the engine kill switch in on position.
As soon as I touched the cable to battery terminal, starter got into action and bike started!again I put aside the cable and starter stopped leaving the bike alive.(However none of the electricals were working including headlight).With help of my friends bikes light I reached home all heart broken and ego hurt!

Next day I decided to take the bike to local Bajaj dealer as there is no ProBiking here in Ahmednagar.(word of caution for would be buyers- normal Bajaj dealers wont service your P200/P220).
My fear turned true there.Guys at Bajaj dealership refused to touch the bike.
I was exasperated to say the least.After some requesting head mechanic there came to my rescue.I explained the problem and also showed him "practical".He just looked indifferently as if it was routine!But thankfully he ordered for his tools and checked the wires for any short circuit.There were none.Next, he pulled out the plug connecting to starter relay and then took out the whole starter relay.After that he bought one spare starter relay from P150 and inserted the plug into it(the one he had pulled out earlier).Connected the battery,turned on the ignition and cranked the engine.The bike started perfectly and the starter also came back to normal...
Conclusion? He told me , some water most have seeped in through the gap into the relay making it short thus it drew current from battery directly with no concern whatsoever from ignition switch.
Then he took out that new relay and blew some air into my own relay and deployed it to work.This time the relay acted as if nothing had happened.Every other function also worked perfectly.
I rode the bike home without any problem.
(Coincidentally a call came from ProBiking that day in the afternoon asking me wheather there was any problem.I told them exactly what happened.They took notice of it and promised me to rectify the problem on 1st service)

Note - You might be wondering how the relay got cured all by itself?Well it didn't.The relay was still short.What happened exactly is this - When that mechanic fully disengaged the relay from battery,it went into reset postion as there was no current at all flowing through it.So when it was fitted again,everything was normal.
In the end it turned out to be a minor problem with what only the relay needed to be changed.

(After this incident I created a home made cure for the starter relay's problem of getting wet.Interesting pictures of it are here)

American Chopper

American Chopper is one of Discovery Channel’s most popular reality TV shows which focuses on a father & son business that builds custom motorcycles. Of course, since its television there are obviously “Hollywood” elements to the show, such as over-dramatized diatribes between characters, artificial dialogue about project status, and extra curricular activities optimized for on-camera antics. But my facination with the show is from the business perspective.

American Chopper is an amazing case study into how a business is operated, and the character, personality, and management traits of the people that make it all happen. Here are just a few of the things I think about when watching the show:

* Project Management - Quality, Time, or Cost - pick two.
* Operations - managing and controlling normal day-to-day duties with the demands of custom projects
* Scope Creep - producing results and getting it done instead of over-promising and being late
* Teamwork - being able to trust and rely on those you work with through thick and thin
* Skills - ability, know-how and in-depth experience to get the job done
* Passion - making a career out of doing what you love
* Drive - having what it takes as an entrepreneur to build a business
* Sacrifice - long hours, strained relationships, and giving it all you’ve got
* Just a good, honest day’s work - no cryptic management speak or corner office kingdom building
* The dream of a father grooming his son to take over the family business
* The stuggles of a son trying to follow in the footsteps of his very successful father

As it turns out, I couldn’t help but buy the entire series on DVD. It’s a fun way to take a break from running my own businesses and makes me think about how I would handle the various situations. I’ve always thought that having a television show that focused on how people actually start or operate businesses would be interesting. Ah, but who are we kidding. It’s not all just about business - these guys really do build some sweet rides!