Salvador chosen to race in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup

Since 2017, Dorna and Red Bull have run a talent promotion program to support a rider from the European Talent Cup to move into the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup the following season. Last year it was Danish rider Simon Jespersen, and in 2018 the rider chosen to become a Rookie is Spaniard David Salvador.

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

Three Effective Ways to Reduce Your Life Insurance Premium

Contributed article

If you are single with no direct dependents such as children or other close relatives, then it won’t be as beneficial to get life insurance. But if you have a partner and children, then a life insurance policy is a good way to extend your love and care for them, at least financially, even after you’re gone.

We understand that getting life insurance is going to be an extra cost for you. A sizeable part of your monthly income will have to be given up to pay for the policy. But it doesn’t really have to be this way. There are things that you can do to lower your premium, and we will discuss some of them here.

Quit smoking

Paying a cheaper monthly premium for your life insurance policy is going to be beneficial in a lot of ways. For one, it will put you in a better position to purchase other insurance such as car insurance.

One sure way to lower the amount that you have to pay as premium is to stop smoking. According to a summary created by the US Department of Health and Human Services in 2014, smoking is the cause of at least 400,000 premature deaths in the country each year. It’s not difficult to see why this is so; it has been known that cigarette smoke contains at least 250 harmful chemicals, 69 of which have been linked to cancer.

You see, an insurance premium rises when the company senses by looking at your medical records that you are exposing yourself to situations that unwittingly increase the chances of you dying prematurely and them paying out to your beneficiary even before you’ve paid them a considerable amount of cash.

Lose weight

Being overweight – or worse, obese – does not only slow you down and make moving around a chore, it also predisposes you to different types of cancers. In overweight women who have been through menopause, for example, breast cancer is going to be their number 1 enemy. 

Excess fat in the body also makes it difficult for your body to resist the development of other chronic and probably fatal illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease. Given this knowledge, it is only normal for the insurer to anticipate your death quite early, and an increased premium is their way to also protect their business. If you strive for and actually achieve a certain level of fitness right before you apply for life insurance, the probability is high that your premium will be at its minimum.

Avoid traffic violations

Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration show that more than 37,000 lives were lost in traffic mishaps in 2016. Many of the recorded accidents are caused by totally preventable factors such as intoxication and distracted driving. If you’ve been apprehended for drunk driving and texting while driving, for example, you are basically telling the insurer that you will soon join NHTSA’s statistics.

More than ensuring your safety on the road, following traffic rules enforced by the city government of Des Moines also helps pay less for your life and car insurance. If you’re involved in an accident, it can become really tricky to get your benefits if you don’t get the help of Des Moines auto insurance claims lawyers. You see, some insurance companies are hesitant to give payouts on car damage that is brought about by potentially ambiguous causes.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Harley-Davidson’s First Electric Motorcycle Coming

Contributed post

Harley-Davidson recently unveiled its first ever electric motorcycle during the EICMA (Esposizione Internazionale Ciclo Motociclo e Accessori) or otherwise known as the Milan Motorcycle Show. This event was held from November 8 to November 11 and it was here where motorcycle manufacturers, whether they be giants in the industry or ambitious startups, show off their best and upcoming electric motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, and mopeds.

However, like anyone who knows how to play the game well, Harley-Davidson did not show their cards during the event. Despite showing off their upcoming electric motorcycle, they kept mum about important specs such as the motorcycle’s effective range, speed, and charging rate.

What Was Its Prototype?

Harley Davidson LiveWire electric motorcycle
Harley Davidson LiveWire prototype

The electric motorcycle was based on a prototype codenamed “LiveWire”, which was first put on public display in June 2014. The electric motorcycle was then commented on by a Fox Sports reporter as being “the most radical departure in the 111-year history of the brand.”

And it was rightfully said to be so, as the general public have always known Harley-Davidson for its loud, heavy and, of course, expensive motorcycles. The LiveWire prototype looks far sportier and more futuristic than any other Harley-Davidson motorcycle before it and this is a valiant attempt at attracting a wider customer base.

What Exactly Is The New Harley-Davidson Electric Motorcycle?

Electric Harley-Davidson LiveWire leads parade smart desert charging
LiveWire unveiled in Milwaukee

The motorcycle company’s first ever electric motorcycle is going to retain its prototype’s codename, but that’s about where the similarities end. The final retail product looks much more refined than its prototype (which was already in itself a futuristic-looking motorcycle relative to most Harleys).

While Harley-Davidson have yet to reveal the technical specifications of LiveWire, we can at least get a point of reference from the prototype. The LiveWire prototype could accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in less than four seconds. As far as effective range goes, it was capable of traveling up to around 55 miles. Though, it’s important to note that this result is under the presumption that the electric motorcycle is in “economy mode”.

What Makes This Electric Bike A Harley?

Despite the overhauled aesthetics and functional design, the LiveWire still stays true to tradition where it truly matters most. And no, I’m not talking about the hefty price tag that comes with every Harley bike. There isn’t even an official price for this electric motorcycle.

I’m referring to the loudness of the motorcycle. Because, well, if it isn’t loud and shiny, it’s probably not a Harley. The LiveWire is built uniquely so that its drivetrain creates a whirring sound, something that sounds like a jet turbine.

And that, my friends, is where the LiveWire stays true to Harley-Davidson tradition.

LiveWire is being released next year around the world will arrive in Australia and New Zealand in late 2020.

As you can already tell, the market is shifting. Newer models are being built with the environment in mind. And that’s a good thing. The one thing, however, that will never change, is the fact that no matter how fancy your vehicle gets, the responsibility that comes with owning and riding a vehicle will never be replaced.

Always adhere to traffic rules. And even if you do, there are many cases where it might be someone else who causes an accident. Luckily, a seasoned motorcycle and car accident attorney is not difficult to find.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R | First Look Review

2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R
The 2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R gets updated styling and other minor changes, plus a new lower base price. Shown above is the Ninja ZX-6R ABS KRT in Lime Green/Ebony/Metallic Graphite Gray.

Kawasaki’s Ninja ZX-6R sportbike is powered by a liquid-cooled, 636cc in-line four-cylinder engine that’s 37cc larger than competing Japanese 600-class bikes, giving it more usable power.

For 2019, the Ninja ZX-6R gets new styling with twin LED headlights and an LED taillight, a Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS), updated instrumentation, Euro4 emissions compliance and optimized gear ratios.

2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R
Styling updates for the 2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R a new front cowling and windscreen, twin LED headlights, a redesigned tail cowl and an LED taillight.

Perhaps the biggest news for 2019 is that Kawasaki has slashed the base price of the Ninja ZX-6R by $1,700, to $9,999, making it significantly cheaper than 600cc sportbikes from Honda, Suzuki and Yamaha.

Read our 2018 Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE road test review

The Ninja ZX-6R’s 636cc in-line four has a bore and stroke of 67.0 x 45.1mm. To meet Euro4 emissions regulations standards without compromising the engine’s performance, ultra-fine atomizing fuel injectors with precise settings were utilized. Feeding the engine is a large, 5.1-liter air box, which helps to create peak power and smooth power delivery. The intake funnels have two different heights for strong low-mid range performance, the piston skirts have a molybdenum coating to reduce friction and connecting passages between the cylinders reduce pumping losses.

2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R
2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R ABS KRT in Lime Green/Ebony/Metallic Graphite Gray

For optimal performance, all four exhaust header pipes are connected using joint pipes, which contribute to low-mid range torque. An exhaust pre-chamber minimizes silencer volume and contributes to mass centralization, while the silencer’s triangular cross-section allows the requisite volume as well as a high lean angle and a compact image.

A six-speed, cassette-style transmission makes it easy to change gear ratios quickly for track days or racing, and a shorter final gear ratio (15/43) enhances acceleration. The transmission is mated to an assist-and-slipper clutch and the new Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS).

2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R
Kawasaki Quick Shift (KQS) is now standard on the 2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R.

Holding the Ninja ZX-6R together is a pressed-aluminum perimeter main frame and a two-piece, die-cast aluminum subframe. Complementing the chassis design, the 636 is equipped with fully adjustable suspension, including the Showa SFF-BP (Separate Function Fork-Big Piston) fork and a Showa rear shock. Cast aluminum 17-inch wheels are shod with Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 tires and braking is handled by radial-mount four-piston opposed front calipers squeezing semi-floating 310 mm stainless-steel petal discs and a two-piston pin-slide rear caliper squeezing a 220mm disc.

In addition to KQS, other electronics include a Power Mode selector (Full and Low), Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC) with three modes plus off and, on ABS models, Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System (KIBS).

Styling changes for 2019 include a new front cowling and windscreen, twin LED headlights, a redesigned tail cowl, an LED taillight, a new heel guard and a new finishing process for the silencer. Also, the new seat is shorter front-to-back for improved comfort and feedback from the chassis, as well as narrower in front to make it easier for riders to get their feet on the ground. And complementing the adjustable front brake lever is a new adjustable clutch lever with five available positions.

2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R
2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R ABS in Pearl Storm Gray/Metallic Spark Black

Pricing and color options are as follows:

  • Ninja ZX-6R ($9,999): Pearl Storm Gray/Metallic Spark Black or Metallic Spark Black/Metallic Flat Spark Black
  • Ninja ZX-6R ABS ($10,999): Pearl Storm Gray/Metallic Spark Black
  • Ninja ZX-6R ABS KRT ($11,299): Lime Green/Ebony/Metallic Graphite Gray

Check out Rider’s Guide to New/Updated Street Motorcycles for 2019

 

 

Source: RiderMagazine.com

Indian Announces Ride Command Infotainment System

Indian’s new Ride Command infotainment system features updated software and mobile app integration. 

Begin Press Release: 


New Software Update & Mobile App Offer Online Route Planning with Wireless Bike Transfer & Remote Vehicle Information Accessibility

MINNEAPOLIS (November 30, 2018) – Indian Motorcycle, America’s first motorcycle company, continues to enhance its rider experience with the announcement of an all-new Ride Command® mobile phone app and software update. Ride Command is the largest, fastest, most customizable system on two wheels, featuring an industry-leading, glove-compatible, seven-inch touchscreen. Its latest software updates allow riders to easily plan ride routes via a desktop platform, while an all-new Ride Command mobile app wirelessly transfers the directions to the bike’s navigation system and provides remote accessibility to key vehicle information.

Owners can update their Ride Command by visiting a local dealership or by quickly downloading the software to a USB drive at RideCommand.IndianMotorcycle.com. The website also serves as the platform for riders to plan ride routes with up to 100 waypoints. The point-by-point directions can then be wirelessly transferred to the bike using the Ride Command mobile app and a Bluetooth® connection to the infotainment system. The pairing of these new technologies allows riders to view vehicle data, including fuel level, oil life, tire pressure & battery charge remotely on their mobile device. Riders can also track rides, view service recommendations and log maintenance within the mobile app. The Ride Command mobile app can be downloaded for free in the Apple Store and Google Play.

“We continually focus on enhancing the rider experience,” said Reid Wilson, Senior Director for Indian Motorcycle. “Our industry-leading Ride Command infotainment system is an easy-to-use platform that enables us to continually expand features with exciting new software updates. Pre-ride route planning and remote vehicle data accessibility are features our riders have asked for, and we’re excited to deliver these technologies.”

Riders can set push notifications within the Ride Command mobile app and receive alerts for important service reminders. The app also tracks rides and allows riders to conveniently share completed or planned rides with friends on Facebook.

Riders can further update their Ride Command by downloading the free 2018 map updates at the Ride Command website or via a local dealer. New Chieftain and Roadmaster owners receive three years of complementary map updates.

The new Ride Command updates further expand Indian Motorcycle’s ride-enhancing technologies announced earlier this year, as the 2019 Chieftain lineup and the 2019 Roadmaster are equipped with three selectable ride modes and rear cylinder deactivation for improved rider comfort when traveling at slower speeds. Pricing for the 2019 models begin at $21,999 for the Chieftain, $24,999 for the Chieftain Classic, and $25,999 for the Chieftain Dark Horse and Chieftain Limited. Roadmaster pricing starts at $28,999.

To learn more, visit RideCommand.IndianMotorcycle.com for a full list of features, download instructions and instructional videos. Follow Indian Motorcycle on FacebookTwitter and Instagram.

Ride Command
Ride Command
Ride Command

The post Indian Announces Ride Command Infotainment System appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

Rossi: “We have to work in all the areas”

“The important thing was to find the base and now for Malaysia, we have to improve the top speed a little bit, that will be very important for long tracks. We need more traction, this is still our weak point. But overall I think we have a really competitive bike. As I said we didn’t play with the chassis, we just wanted to try the engines, the lap time was there, very consistent. I was able to keep high 38s and low 39s on the pace, so this is really good I think. So let’s see, I was riding when the track conditions were worse to try to improve myself and I’m actually really happy.”

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

Crutchlow on Nakagami: “I think he’s on for a good year”

“I’ve always tried to help Taka and I always will, he’s a really good kid,” is how Cal Crutchlow (LCR Honda Castrol) begins his assessment of his teammate, Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu). But he’s quick to correct himself in one way. “No disrespect to him, I’m not really calling him a kid! But he was a rookie this year and I was impressed with what he did. I think the motorcycle he was on this year was difficult to ride, as we know it was down on top speed, now he’s got the bike that we had this year and he’s obviously showing his potential. He’s always fast in Jerez, we can’t take that away from him, but even in Valencia he was good. So we know he’s maturing as a rider, and I’m impressed as much as the team are.”

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

Kymco SuperNEX | Electric Superbike Concept

Kymco unveil SuperNEX electric superbike concept


Kymco announced their SuperNEX concept electric motorcycle at EICMA, ushering in a superbike themed offering that the brand boasts will include a gearbox to try and retain the familiar characteristic for motorcyclists interested in going electric.

Kymco SuperNEX Concept Superbike
Kymco SuperNEX Concept Superbike
Allen Ko – KYMCO Chairman

“While people have no doubt that the next era of personal transportation is electric. Many are still pondering over the profound implications of electric in the world of supersport motorcycles. The quiet nature of the electric motor troubles motorcycle enthusiasts and without the gratification of gear shifting, the simple twist-and-go interaction feels more utility-oriented, and sometimes even toy-like. Also, most electric motorcycles today lack the sustaining thrill of acceleration to the top-end after the initial rush. As a result, many sportbike lovers fear that supersport might lose its charm in the impending new electric era.”

Kymco SuperNEX Concept Superbike
Kymco SuperNEX Concept Superbike

These design philosophies built around Kymco’s rider insights in this segment come to life in five tangible approaches: that shifting is an important part of motorbike riding, the best acceleration feels like a completion of a thought; excitement comes from exploring limits with confidence; sound is part of the character of the machine; and a great vehicle elevates the rider’s every occasion.

Kymco SuperNEX Concept Superbike
Kymco SuperNEX Concept Superbike

Electric Motor – Sport Transmission

The SuperNEX was designed around the philosophy that shifting is an integral part of motorbike riding, which is a fair assumption since almost any machine without gears is a scooter. Hence, Kymco’s electric supersport machine will feature a six-speed transmission that allows riders to more fully engage with their motorcycle. The SuperNEX also comes with a clutch-less upshift and downshift feature however, in true modern supersport form, while a slipper clutch further helps smooth out the ride on aggressive downshifting.

Kymco SuperNEX Concept Superbike
Kymco SuperNEX Concept Superbike

Interesting power delivery

Kymco also claim that an unfortunate shortcoming of today’s electric motorcycles is that the inherent characteristic of the electric motor has a power curve that reaches maximum horsepower at midrange and then declines thereafter.

As a result, on a single gear electric motorcycle, once it reaches a certain speed the surge of acceleration starts to fade noticeably. Moreover, this lack of power is most often felt at high-speed riding, which supersport riders enjoy the most.

Kymco SuperNEX Concept Superbike
Kymco SuperNEX Concept Superbike

To combat that they present the SuperNEX as featuring the six-speed transmission to allows riders to make use of the more traditional optimal ‘power band’ of the motor to extract a more engaging experience.

The gearbox helps improve not only the efficiency and responsiveness, but also the acceleration and top speed. As a result, the SuperNEX can go from 0 to 100km/hr in 2.9 seconds, from 0 to 200km/hr in 7.5 seconds and from 0 to 250km/hr in 10.9 seconds.

Rider Aides

The capabilities of today’s supersport motorcycles exceed the skills of most riders, with electronics often being used to reign in the incredible performance on offer. To allow sportsbike lovers to confidently engage with the SuperNEX, Kymco created Kymco FEP – Kymco Full Engagement Performance – a performance management system that allows the rider to explore the limits with the benefit of rider aides.

Kymco SuperNEX Concept Superbike
Kymco SuperNEX Concept Superbike

During hard acceleration, FEP ensures there is no wheelie or wheel slippage. During hard braking, FEP prevents rear wheel lifting. When riding through uneven or wet surfaces, FEP also provides maximum traction. Moreover, the degree of FEP engagement can be adjusted to riders’ preference.

Kymco Active Acoustic Motor

Electric motor are quiet by nature, and this becomes an issue on a supersport bike because without sound, the character, sensation, and passion of the machine are lost. The SuperNEX, on the other hand, offers the Active Acoustic Motor, which is designed to convey the heartbeat of the machine.

The motor has a multi-frequency acoustics generator that reconstructs the dynamic sounds of the motor with great authenticity. It delivers the iconic supersport thrills and messages that sportbike riders seek. The sound can be further tuned to rider’s liking for its character and volume.

Kymco SuperNEX Concept Superbike
Kymco SuperNEX Concept Superbike

“Adaptive Machine Personalities”

Today’s supersport motorcycles let riders set certain electronic functions, and in a departure from the conventional electric motorcycles, SuperNEX offers four modes of vehicle ‘personality’, which they describe as:

  • Poised
  • Assertive
  • Bold
  • Extreme

These ride modes or ‘personalities’ will offer sportbike riders a variety of different motorcycle characteristics, making for a more dynamic experience, whether that means picking the mode that suits them as a rider, or just their day to day mood.

Kymco SuperNEX Concept Superbike
Kymco SuperNEX Concept Superbike
Allen Ko

“With SuperNEX, Kymco marks the beginning of the next era of supersport, we believe electric opens up a new era of boundless opportunities to win the hearts of the most discerning riders all over the world.”

Kymco SuperNEX Concept Superbike
Kymco SuperNEX Concept Superbike

Source: MCNews.com.au