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Motorcycle News, News

Big Bend BDR-X to Be Unveiled Oct. 26

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Big Bend BDR-X
The Big Bend BDR-X 600-mile loop premiers in a live YouTube broadcast on Oct. 26.

The latest off-road route by the nonprofit Backcountry Discovery Routes will be unveiled Oct. 26 in a special YouTube broadcast. The Big Bend BDR-X in west Texas will become the 19th BDR route and the fifth BDR-X, which are shorter, loop-style routes.

The broadcast will feature a 40-minute documentary film screening and the release of GPS tracks, a waterproof route map, and route resources. Also included will be exclusive behind-the-scenes looks at the route’s development and its first expedition. It’ll be hosted from the TouraTexas Rally, and members of the expedition film team will join the broadcast.

Big Bend BDR-X

The Big Bend BDR-X is 600 miles in length and travels through the rugged terrain of Big Bend national Park, Big Bend Ranch State Park, and surrounding areas. Enjoy desert landscapes, natural beauty, hidden-gem historical sites, and an optional foot crossing into Mexico at the Rio Grande.

“We’re excited to bring this route to life in West Texas,” says Michael Bielecki, BDR routes manager and route co-architect. “Big Bend is one of the most remote and iconic regions in the U.S. The blend of the expansive Chihuahuan Desert, the lush banks of the Rio Grande, and the majesty of the Chisos Mountains offers a perfect backdrop for riders seeking a real desert adventure.”

Big Bend BDR-X

The Big Bend BDR-X will be open immediately after the release, and all information about the route will be available on the BDR website.

Big Bend BDR-X

We got the chance to sit down with members of Backcountry Discover Routes for a chat about the organization and the 940-mile Northern California route for Episode 70 of the Rider Magazine Insider Podcast. Listen to the episode to learn more, and check out our other podcast episodes for more conversations with important and inspiring people within the world of motorcycling.

Big Bend BDR-X

Visit Backcountry Discovery Routes’ YouTube channel to tune in to the live broadcast on Oct. 26 at 5 p.m. Pacific / 8 p.m. Eastern, and enjoy a sneak peak in the trailer above.

The post Big Bend BDR-X to Be Unveiled Oct. 26 appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

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KTM Automated Manual Transmission Available on Select Models

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KTM Automated Manual Transmission
The new KTM Automated Manual Transmission simplifies shifting gears by automatically managing the clutch. Riders can choose between fully automated Auto mode or a quickshifter-like Manual mode.

Motorcycle technology is changing rapidly. Advanced rider aids are being added as options or as standard on new models, and motorcycles powered by electric motors are emerging onto the market. Motorcycle tech is taking an additional step forward as OEMs are developing clutchless transmissions, like the KTM Automated Manual Transmission announced here.

See Johnny Aubert steer a prototype KTM AMT up the Iron Road Prologue at the Red Bull Erzbergrodeo in the video below.

The KTM Automated Manual Transmission allows riders the choice between changing gears manually (although without a clutch lever) or letting the motorcycle do it for them. The AMT gearbox is set up as P-N-1-2-3-4-5-6, with Park at the bottom to prevent the bike from rolling when parked.

According to KTM, “Once 1st gear is engaged, forward drive is initiated by raising the engine speed, at which point the centrifugal clutch engages and sets the motorcycle in motion.” With this system, riders can start on a slope, stop, and manage slow-speed maneuvers more simply than with a traditional manual transmission.

KTM Automated Manual Transmission

In Manual mode, riders can shift gears using the foot gear lever or the paddle shifters on the left side of the handlebar. However, Park and Neutral can only be selected with the paddle shifters. The front or rear brake must be applied in order to engage 1st gear.

KTM Automated Manual Transmission
On the bottom of the switchgear, the UP paddle shifter can be seen below the throttle grip.

In Auto mode, shifting is fully automated and executed based on parameters such as gear position, engine speed, engine torque, lean angle, acceleration, vehicle speed, pitch angle, and rider inputs. Riders can select their shift preference via shift modes titled Comfort, Street, or Sport.

KTM Automated Manual Transmission
The DOWN paddle shifter is located on the forward part of the left switchgear.

The gearbox is controlled electronically via the ECU and Transmission Control Unit. Each shift is started by the electromechanical shift actuator. KTM claims shifting gears takes 50 milliseconds.

KTM Automated Manual Transmission

Like the new E-Clutch system found on Honda’s CB650R and CBR650R or BMW’s Automated Shift Assistant available as an option on R-series Boxer models, the KTM AMT could be beneficial for a range of riders. Eliminating the requirement to learn clutch control will remove a steep learning curve for new riders, and it allows riders of all experience levels to pay more attention to the ride and the road.

KTM Automated Manual Transmission
KTM has yet to announce which models will receive the AMT, but this illustration indicates it will be fitted to one or more of its V-Twin engined bikes.

The KTM Automated Manual Transmission will be available on select upcoming KTM models, and KTM says more options will be added in upcoming years. Visit the KTM website for more information.

Find all of Rider‘s KTM reviews here

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Austin Rothbard, Twisted Road | Ep. 73 Rider Magazine Insider Podcast

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Episode 73 of the Rider Magazine Insider Podcast is sponsored by Fire Power. Our guest is Austin Rothbard, Founder and CEO of Twisted Road, a peer-to-peer motorcycle rental platform. We learn how the rental process works, from both the owner and renter perspectives. Peer-to-peer rentals are a great way to try out new motorcycles or fly into an area for a motorcycle tour.

You can check out Episode 73 on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Podbean, and YouTube or via the Rider Magazine Insider Podcast webpage. Please subscribe, leave us a 5-star rating, and tell your friends! Scroll down for a list of previous episodes.

Visit the Rider Magazine Insider Podcast webpage to check out previous episodes:

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Motorcycle News, News

“One Fast Move” Motorcycle Racing Film Features Triumph Daytona 765

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One Fast Move Triumph Motorcycles
“One Fast Bike,” now streaming on Amazon Prime Video, is a new movie by writer and director Kelly Blatz about motorcycle racing.

One Fast Move, a new movie about motorcycle racing, is now available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video and features a race-trim Triumph Daytona 765. The movie follows the story of protagonist Wes Neal (KJ Apa), who wants to be a competitive motorcycle racer and trains with Dean Miller (Eric Dane) to achieve those dreams.

Writer and director Kelly Blatz paid special attention to capture not only the atmosphere of motorcycle racing but also the details. Blatz is a motorcyclist and racing enthusiast and wanted to create a realistic representation of the community of racers. For race scenes, the entire field of riders were real racers who brought their trucks and trailers with race bikes to create a realistic pit set-up.

One Fast Move Triumph Motorcycles

During race scenes, cameras were mounted onto bikes, and microphones were also attached to each motorcycle to record the actual sounds of each bike. For the fastest sequences of the movie, championship racers like Daytona 200 champ Brandon Paasch and Horizon Award winner Brian Stokes were chosen as riders. Blatz also attended the press launch of the Triumph Street Triple 765 RS at Circuito de Jerez to ride the new bike and get further inspiration for the film.

“Creating One Fast Move has been an incredible journey,” said Kelly Blatz. “The film not only showcases the adrenaline-fueled world of motorcycle racing but also delves into the human spirit’s resilience and determination. I am grateful to Triumph Motorcycles for their support and collaboration in bringing this vision to life.”

One Fast Move Triumph Motorcycles

The bike ridden by the film’s protagonist is a Triumph Daytona 765 Moto2 Limited Edition with a Moto2Style race faring. The powerplant in that bike, the 765cc Moto2 Triple, continues to rack up podium spots in Street Triple 765 RSs in the Bennetts British Superbike Championship and the World Superbike Championship in 2024.

“We are proud to be included in One Fast Move,” said Adam VanderVeen, marketing director of Triumph Motorcycles America. “By capturing the essence of racing, the film captures much of the essence of Triumph – the spirit of adventure, the pursuit of excellence, and the thrill of the ride. It’s incredible to see the track performance of the ever-capable Daytona memorialized in film, however my true desire for this film is that it inspires many non-riders to ride for the first time and inspires current riders to try their first track day, to feel for themselves the thrill which is conveyed on-screen.”

One Fast Move Triumph Motorcycles

In celebration of the film, Triumph has sent fifty 11×17-inch posters to every Triumph dealership in the U.S. and Canada, and fans can visit their local dealer to get a free poster while supplies last.

The post “One Fast Move” Motorcycle Racing Film Features Triumph Daytona 765 appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

Motorcycle News, News

EagleRider Now Rents H-D CVO Road Glides

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EagleRider, the motorcycle rental and tour company, will be offering riders the opportunity to rent Harley-Davidson CVO models. With rates starting from $259, you can experience the pinnacle of H-D engineering from August 15 through October 31, 2024.

Harley’s CVO (Custom Vehicle Operations) bikes are typically unavailable for test rides, but EagleRider will be offering the exclusive opportunity to experience what it’s like to ride this premium bike without having to pay its $44,499 MSRP.

2023 Harley-Davidson CVO Street Glide and Road Glide Reviews

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to ride a CVO Road Glide, EagleRider gives you the opportunity to rent one for as little as $259.

“EagleRider has partnered with Harley-Davidson to provide another one-of-a-kind adventure,” said CEO Sebastian Schoepe. “We are proud that riders can now experience the thrill and luxury of a CVO motorcycle.”

EagleRider is the world’s largest motorcycle rental and tour company, with 150 locations around the globe and outlets in most major U.S. cities, including the recently opened location in Boston.

For the CVO rentals, the 25 bikes will be available in Chicago, Albuquerque, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles, allowing riders to experience the joys of riding the most desirable new Harley along sections of the legendary Route 66.

Additionally, existing EagleRider tour bookings can be upgraded to include the CVO Road Glide, and members of Club EagleRider can access this exclusive opportunity for 5 credits per day.

Find out more and book your trip at the EagleRider website.

The post EagleRider Now Rents H-D CVO Road Glides appeared first on Rider Magazine.

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Motorcycle News, News

BUILD Moto High School Program Now Sponsored by Harley-Davidson

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BUILD Moto Program Harley-Davidson Sponsorship
Harley-Davidson is now the sponsor of the BUILD Moto program, a nonprofit that teaches high school teams how to build motorcycles and other related skills.

Harley-Davidson has announced its official sponsorship of the BUILD Moto program starting with the 2025 season. Through this sponsorship, signed for the next three years, Harley-Davidson will donate items like motorcycles, parts, and accessories to the program, as well as provide access to manufacturing experts and additional support.

The BUILD program, founded in 2011, is a 501(c)3 organization that allows high school students to learn valuable skills by building a motorcycle to AMA flat-track racing standards and then entering their builds to be judged. Students, guided by a faculty advisor and up to three mentors, learn design, welding, fabrication, repair, machining, media, and more as they work on their bikes.

BUILD Moto Program Harley-Davidson Sponsorship

Each team organizes fundraising events to support their project, and they must document their progress with photos and videos posted to social media. They’re judged on design, execution, and completion of milestones throughout the season, culminating in a bike reveal and awards event at the end.

“Our involvement with BUILD Moto represents our commitment to STEAM learning and helping to teach the next generation of designers, engineers, and trades experts,” said Shanna Beanan, STEAM Program Manager at Harley-Davidson. “Working with high schoolers who are empowered to create a bike that is race-ready is really rewarding. It’s a thrill to see their confidence grow during the build and showcase what they’ve learned as the pit crew on race day.”

BUILD Moto Program Harley-Davidson Sponsorship

The 2024 season participants received an invitation to show their motorcycles at the Harley-Davidson Homecoming Festival at the newly opened Davidson Park in Milwaukee on July 25, 2024, at 11 a.m.

Those interested in becoming involved with the BUILD Moto program can do so in several ways. Becoming a mentor allows you to work directly with students to build the motorcycles. Working a booth at BUILD Moto events helps to spread the word about the program. Volunteering at an event to help with parking, selling merchandise, or set up/tear down can help keep the event running smoothly. If you’re a subject matter expert, you can also lend one-time assistance to teams on your specific skill, in-person or virtually.

Visit the BUILD Moto website to learn more, donate, or find ways to become involved.

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Source: RiderMagazine.com

Motorcycle News, News

2024 Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride Has Record-Breaking Attendance

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Distinguished Gentleman's Ride 2024 Toronto
The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride 2024 raised $7.6 million to support men’s mental health and research for prostate cancer.

The 2024 Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride had a record-breaking year with a total of 113,000 riders across the world raising $7.6 million USD to support research and raise awareness for men’s mental health and prostate cancer.

In its 11th year and supported by Triumph Motorcycles, the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride was held on May 19, and participants across the globe gathered for group rides while dressed in dapper clothing. With 959 rides across 105 countries, the DGR is growing in support and participation.

Distinguished Gentleman's Ride 2024 Eric Hendrikx Nicholas Harrison
Eric Hendrikx (left) and Nicholas Harrison (right) on the Toronto ride.

The U.S. had 14,767 riders from 187 rides, and Canada had 2,167 riders from 28 rides, for a total combined North America fundraising effort of $3.05 million.

Triumph Motorcycles supports the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride by organizing rides from Triumph dealers and offering prizes for participants who raise the most money. The top five fundraisers on Team Triumph won a prize package including items from the Triumph Clothing Collection.

Distinguished Gentleman's Ride 2024 Toronto
The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride 2024 had a record-breaking 113,000 participants around the world.

Many well-known names participated in the DGR this year. In London, 007 stunt riders Paul Edmondson and Martin Craven and Mission Impossible stunt rider Kieran Clarke rode Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 Xs. In Poole, U.K., actor James Phelps (Fred Weasley in Harry Potter) rode a Bonneville T120 Stealth Edition.

Distinguished Gentleman's Ride 2024 Ivan Cervantes
Ivan Cervantes rode in Reus, Spain, aboard a Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE.

Related: 2024 Triumph Scrambler 1200 X/XE Review | First Ride

In the U.S., movie and film photographer Frank Masi rode a Triumph Speed Twin 1200 in Atlanta. In Canada, writer-photographer Eric Hendrikx led the Toronto ride on a Thruxton RS. Spanish actor Pepe Barroso (Gran Turismo) rode in Madrid, and world-record holder Ivan Cervantes rode in Reus. Music producer Tai Jason rode his Bonneville T100 in Munich, Germany.

Distinguished Gentleman's Ride 2024 Kieran Clarke
Kieran Clarke (far right) participated in the ride with industry colleagues.

“It’s empowering to work with the Gentleman’s Ride and Triumph Motorcycles as we bring our communities together, ride great bikes, and support Movember in their reputable stride to improve prostate cancer research and men’s mental health programs,” said Eric Hendrikx.

“I truly look forward to the DGR every year, as it’s a charity I can really get behind combining fundraising for men’s issues with the comradery of motorcycles and dapper attire,” said Frank Masi. “I’m blown away at how the DGR stays so well organized in so many cities around the world. Year after year, the ride gets bigger and better, and I look forward to participating for many years to come while spreading awareness for men’s mental health and prostate cancer.”

Distinguished Gentleman's Ride 2024 Eric Hendrikx
Eric Hendrikx rides by Queen’s Park in Toronto.

The participant who raised the most globally this year and in any year in the DGR’s history was actor and singer Jaime Camil from Los Angeles. Kat Thomsen from San Francisco raised the second-most, and Matias Seijo from Edinburgh raising the third-most. The Gentlefolk prize winner was Jason Etters who led the ride in Jacksonville, Florida.

Find more information at the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride website.

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Source: RiderMagazine.com

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Interviews with Tom Hardy, Austin Butler, and Other Stars of “The Bikeriders” Movie

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The Bikeriders Movie
Austin Butler is part of the star-studded cast of “The Bikeriders,” which opens on June 21.

The Bikeriders is a film about a midwestern motorcycle club from the 1960s that hits theaters on June 21. The movie was inspired by a book of the same name originally published in 1968, which chronicled the characters and exploits of the Chicago Outlaws Motorcycle Club as it morphs from a friendly association to a biker gang.

The film adaptation is directed by Jeff Nichols (Loving; Midnight Special; Mud), who also wrote the screenplay over a period of several years. The movie stars Austin Butler (Elvis; Dune: Part 2), Tom Hardy (Mad Max: Fury Road; The Revenant), Norman Reedus (Walking Dead), and Jodie Comer (Killing Eve; The Last Duel).

Kevin Duke, editor-in-chief of our sibling publication, American Rider, got the opportunity to watch an advanced screening of the movie followed by an opportunity to interview the actors and director.

“I’m always dubious about Hollywood’s portrayal of motorcycling, but after watching an advance screening of this new film, I was really impressed with the production values and the acting,” said Duke. “Terrific performances throughout, especially from Hardy as the club leader ‘Johnny’ and Comer, the love interest of ‘Benny’ played by Butler. The motorcycles are all period-correct 1960s models, and their authentic sounds literally rumble the theater seats.”

Take a look at these interviews to learn about the efforts it took to bring vintage motorcycles to the big screen. And get yourselves to theaters on June 21 to see the film for yourself! Subscribe to our channel to get updates about all new videos.

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Minnesota Legalizes Lane Filtering

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Lane Splitting Lane Filterning
Minnesota has legalized lane filtering, allowing motorcyclists to filter through traffic. Photo by Kevin Wing.

This month, Minnesota has become the sixth state in the U.S. to pass legislation allowing lane filtering, aka lane splitting.

Along with the lane-sharing law, which allows motorcyclists to filter through traffic “at not more than 25 miles per hour and no more than 15 miles per hour over the speed of traffic,” Minnesota has also added punishments for drivers who impede motorcyclists.

As shown by reactions to our recent post about Colorado passing lane-filtering legislation last month, the topic of lane sharing remains controversial. Data indicates that lane sharing reduces motorcycle accidents and decreases the severity of injuries in collisions, especially in rear-end accidents. But some motorists in places where lane sharing is not the norm are skeptical of the practice, even though it’s common on most of the world’s roads.

For an in-depth look at the practice of lane sharing, read “Split Decision: Are Lane Splitting and Lane Filtering Safe?” by Eric Trow. For more about the new legislation in Minnesota, read the AMA’s press release below.

Minnesota Passes Historic Lane-Filtering Legislation

With the signing of HF 5247 into law by Gov. Tim Walz (D) on Friday, May 24, Minnesota became the sixth state to legalize lane filtering.

Minnesota is now the easternmost state to legalize lane filtering and joins California, Utah, Montana, Arizona, and Colorado — which also signed filtering into law this year — as states that permit lane filtering.

“With this new ability to filter through slow-moving traffic and at stoplights, riders in Minnesota will benefit from increased safety on the open road,” AMA Central States Representative Nick Sands said. “The recent successes of lane-filtering legislation passing into law in Colorado and Minnesota signal excellent momentum for our efforts in that space, and the overall well-being of our road-riding members.”

As part of a supplemental budget bill — which impacted several departments, including the Minnesota Department of Transportation — motorcyclists in Minnesota will now be allowed to filter through traffic “at not more than 25 miles per hour and no more than 15 miles per hour over the speed of traffic in relevant traffic lanes.” Written by Sen. Scott Dibble (D-61) and Reps. Frank Hornstein (D-61A), Brad Tabke (D-54A), and Erin Koegel (D-39A), this section of the bill will take effect on July 1, 2025.

The legislation’s success came after AMA member and BMW MOA treasurer Phil Stalboerger told his story of being rear-ended on a motorcycle while in traffic to several legislators who wanted to find a way to prevent further accidents from happening.

“After telling my story to a lot of people and educating people on what lane filtering means for the motorcycle community, it’s very rewarding seeing this legislation pass,” Stalboerger said. “There was a nice rally cry from the motorcycle community, clubs, small businesses, and others saying that ‘yes,’ we want this. The passage of this legislation illustrates grassroots advocacy at its finest.”

In addition to the lane-filtering aspects, HF 5247 also added punishments for drivers that impede motorcyclists on the open road, stating that “an operator of a motor vehicle must not intentionally impede or attempt to prevent the operation of a motorcycle” when filtering.

The AMA remains supportive of all efforts regarding the legalization of lane filtering, as its well-documented success in other states, in addition to support from several studies, indicate that it’s an effective way to keep motorcyclists safe on the road.

The AMA’s position on lane filtering, as well as lane splitting, can be found on the AMA website.

To stay up-to-date on the latest legislative news, visit the AMA Government Action Center webpage.

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Americade and Bring It Bike Show | Ep. 71 Rider Magazine Insider Podcast

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Americade and Bring It Bike Show
Episode 71 of the Rider Magazine Insider Podcast is sponsored by Fly Racing. We talk about Americade and the Bring It Bike Show.

On Episode 71 of the Rider Magazine Insider Podcast, which is sponsored by Fly Racing, we talk about the Americade rally, which takes place May 29 to June 1 in Lake George, New York. The world’s largest all-brand rally has scenic rides, demo rides, entertainment, and events. Rider and American Rider sponsor the Bring It Bike Show, with daily winners in multiple categories and a people’s choice Best of Show. Bring your motorcycle and show it off! 

LINKS: Americade, Bring It Bike Show registration, FLY Racing, @flyracingUSA on Instagram

Related: 2023 Americade Bring It Bike Show Winners

Americade Lake George Rider Magazine Insider Podcast
Views of Lake George and riding in the Adirondacks are highlights of the Americaderally.

You can check out Episode 71 on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Podbean, and YouTube or via the Rider Magazine Insider Podcast webpage. Please subscribe, leave us a 5-star rating, and tell your friends! Scroll down for a list of previous episodes.

Americade Canada Street
There’s always a wide selection of bikes parked on Canada Street during Americade.

Visit the Rider Magazine Insider Podcast webpage to check out previous episodes:

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