When Kawasaki first conceived the Ninja H2R, the driving development concept was to offer the kind of acceleration no rider had experienced before.
That a motorcycle be "Fun to Ride" is one of Kawasaki's guiding principles. But while there are many ways for a motorcycle to be enjoyed, it was felt that having incredible acceleration was a major factor in delivering ultimate riding exhilaration.

Powering the Ninja H2R is a supercharged engine with a design target of 300 PS allied to a compact design on par with power units found in supersport litre-class models. The key to achieving this incredible performance lies in the engine's supercharger—a motorcycle-specific unit designed completely in-house with technology from other companies within the Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) Group: the Gas Turbine & Machinery Company, Aerospace Company and Corporate Technology Division.

KHI Group technology was not limited to the supercharger. Advanced technological know-how shared from other group companies is found throughout the all-new engine and chassis design. For example, the carbon-fibre upper and lower wings that ensure stability when riding in the ultra-high speed range were designed with assistance from Kawasaki's Aerospace Company. This is but one example, and this inter-group collaboration combined with the level of technology poured into this model is the reason the Kawasaki River Mark* is displayed prominently on the front of the Ninja H2R.

When it came time to name this model, using "Ninja"—a name synonymous with Kawasaki performance and shared by many legendary models over three historic decades—was an obvious choice. But this model is also named for another epoch-making model, whose 2-stroke 748 cm³ Triple gave it an intense acceleration that made it a sensation around the world: the Mach IV 750, also known as the "H2." For a model designed to offer "the kind of acceleration no rider has experienced before"we can think of no better name.

Built Beyond Belief. In 2014, Kawasaki is once again ready to unleash a new sensation upon the world.

*The Kawasaki River Mark is a long-time symbol of the KHI Group dating back to the 1870s. As a policy, its use on products is rare and limited to models with historical significance. But for the Ninja H2R permission to use this symbol was granted. 

KEY FEATURES

Never-before-experienced Acceleration

In order to be able to offer intense acceleration and a top speed in a range that most riders never have a chance to experience, it was essential that the engine be able to produce big power. While a large-displacement engine could easily provide a high engine output, to ensure a lightweight, compact overall package a compact engine was also desired. Using a supercharged engine allowed both of these engine design requirements to be met: maximum power output has been targeted at 300 PS, and the engine size of the 998 cm³ In-Line Four is on par with other supersport litre-class power units.

In-house-designed Supercharger

The supercharger used in the Ninja H2R was designed by Kawasaki motorcycle engine designers with assistance from other companies within the KHI Group, namely the Gas Turbine & Machinery Company, Aerospace Company, and the Corporate Technology Division. Designing the supercharger in-house allowed it to be developed to perfectly match the engine characteristics of the Ninja H2R. The highly efficient, motorcycle-specific supercharger was the key to achieving the maximum power and the intense acceleration that engineers wanted to offer.

Chassis Design

The objectives for the Ninja H2R's chassis were to ensure supreme stability at ultra-high speeds, offer cornering performance to be able to enjoy riding on a closed course, and finally to have a highly accommodating character. Ordinarily, high-speed stability can easily be achieved with a long wheelbase, but a shorter wheelbase was selected to achieve the compact overall package and sharp handling that were also desired. The frame needed not only to be stiff, but also to be able to absorb external disturbances, which, when encountered while riding in the ultra-high speed range, could easily unsettle a lesser chassis. A new trellis frame developed using the latest analysis technology provided both the strength to harness the incredible power of the supercharged engine, and the balanced flex to achieve the stability and feedback for high-speed riding.

Aerodynamics

As speed increases, wind resistance increases exponentially. To be able to operate in the ultra-high speed range, a combination of high power and slippery aerodynamics was needed. With power requirements taken care of by the supercharged engine, the next step was to design bodywork that both minimised drag and added control when riding at ultra-high speed. Assistance from Kawasaki's Aerospace Company was enlisted in creating the aerodynamically sculpted bodywork to ensure maximum aerodynamic efficiency.

Intense-Force Design & Craftsmanship

Wanting to ensure a bold design worthy of a model that carried both the "Ninja"and "H2"names, the prime styling concept chosen for the Ninja H2R was "Intense Force Design." As a flagship for the Kawasaki brand, it required presence, and a styling that reflected its incredible performance. But the design is much more than cosmetic. While it certainly looks the part, the Ninja H2R also possesses a functional beauty: each piece of its bodywork was aerodynamically sculpted to enhance stability at ultra-high speeds; the cowling design also maximises cooling performance and heat dissipation, aiding in achieving the engine's roughly 300 PS output; and the Ram Air duct is ideally positioned to bring fresh air to the supercharger. More than any motorcycle Kawasaki has built to date, the Ninja H2R is a showcase of craftsmanship, build quality and superb fit and finish—right down to the high-tech mirrored-finish black chrome paint specially developed for this model.

SPECIFICATIONS - Ninja H2R

Engine Type: Supercharged liquid-cooled In-Line Four
Displacement: 998 cm³
Supercharger Type: Centrifugal-type
Maximum Power: Design target 300 PS
Frame Type: Trellis, high-tensile steel
Tyre, Front: 120/600R17 (racing slick tyre)
Tyre, Rear: 190/650R17 (racing slick tyre)

NOTES

1. The Ninja H2R is a closed-course model; it may not be ridden on public roads.
2. The street model (Ninja H2) will be released at EICMA on November 4.

Now this could really put the screws to the Middle East and the carbon foot print...

All I can say is, “WOW!” 
What is this? 
Will it be the next big thing?
Tata Motors of India thinks so.
What will the Oil Companies do to stop it?

It's an auto engine that runs on air. That's right; air not gas or diesel or electric but just the air around us. Take a look.

Tata Motors of India has scheduled the Air Car to hit Indian streets

The Air Car, developed by ex-Formula One engineer Guy N. For Luxembourg-based MDI, uses compressed air to push its engine's pistons and make the car go.

The Air Car, called the "Mini CAT" could cost around 365,757 rupees in India or $8,177 US.

The Mini CAT which is a simple, light urban car, with a tubular chassis, a body of fiberglass that is glued not welded and powered by compressed air.  A Microprocessor is used to control all electrical functions of the car.  One tiny radio transmitter sends instructions to the lights, turn signals and every other electrical device on the car.  Which are not many.

The temperature of the clean air expelled by the exhaust pipe is between 0-15 degrees below zero, which makes it suitable for use by the internal air conditioning system with no need for gases or loss of power.

There are no keys, just an access card which can be read by the car from your pocket.  According to the designers, it costs less than 50 rupees per 100 KM, that's about a tenth the cost of a car running on gas. Its mileage is about double that of the most advanced electric car, a factor which makes it a perfect choice for city motorists.  The car has a top speed of 105 KM per hour or 60 mph and would have a range of around 300 km or 185 miles between refuels.  Refilling the car will take place at adapted gas stations with special air compressors.  A fill up will only take two to three minutes and costs approximately 100 rupees ($1.78 CAD!) and the car will be ready to go another 300 kilometers.

This car can also be filled at home with it's on board compressor.  It will take 3-4 hours to refill the tank, but it can be done while you sleep. 

Because there is no combustion engine, changing the 1 liter of vegetable oil is only necessary every 50,000 KM or 30,000 miles. 
Due to its simplicity, there is very little maintenance to be done on this car.

This Air Car almost sounds too good to be true.    

P.S.  If Mr Tata and Mr Guy succumb to a mysterious illness or dies in an accident, then you know how the oil companies have reacted, as they have done in the past when faced with the prospect of sudden diminished demand for their oil.

Aubervilliers, 10 September 2014. Already a well-established and extremely successful force in the world of motorcycling, premium oil and lubricant specialist Motul is delighted to announce that it will become title partner for the Grand Prix of Japan, the 15^th round of the MotoGP™ World Championship. 

An agreement has been concluded with Championship organizers Dorna Sports and Twin Ring Motegi, the host venue for the Japanese round which takes place from 10-12^th October. 

“Motul is very honored and happy to be named as title partner for this prestigious event in the temple of motorcycling, and we are certain that the Motul Grand Prix of Japan will be a great success for all concerned,” said Motul’s President of Management Board, Monsieur Hervé Amelot.

“Our company has enjoyed an historic relationship with many of Japan’s most successful factory teams which has been both long-standing and very fruitful for all parties, and this new partnership is further proof of the value we place on our involvement with motorcycling in general and the MotoGP™ championship in particular.”

The title partnership comes at a crucial time for competitors in the 2014 season, including the Tech 3 and Forward Racing teams which receive technical support from Europe’s leading company in the field of motorcycle lubricants and lubrication.  The agreement will also be marked with the display of Motul banners and signage around the Twin Ring Motegi circuit for the whole Motul Grand Prix of Japan weekend. This year, the Motul’s iconic red and white colours will be seen prominently at 17 of the 18 races in the 2014 season.

Pau Serracanta, Managing Director, Commercial Area at Dorna Sports added:  “We are thrilled to confirm Motul as title partner to the Japanese round of the MotoGP™ World Championship, with Twin Ring Motegi continuing to play a crucial role in the schedule as the home event for major manufacturers. As Motul is a company which prides itself on top service for its partners, particularly when it comes to listening assiduously in order to produce the best possible products and loyalty, the brand fits perfectly into the MotoGP™ arena.”

Motul views MotoGP™, which hosts the finest technical and riding talents in motorcycle racing, as the perfect test bench for its two-wheel test and development programme and the global series provides the perfect backdrop at which to carry out that research.  Furthermore, with the launch in 2013 of its new technologically advanced motorcycle lubricant range, visibility in the championship allows Motul multiple opportunities to reach its consumers.

Following close on the heels of the EBR RZ Superbike and SX Street Fighter models that are due to arrive shortly, Cayenne announced that they will add a third model to their EBR model lineup with the famous race bred EBR 1190 RS Superbike

Some time back when Erik Buell first formed EBR he asked the team what kind on motorcycle would make a great first impression on the local and international markets the answer was the 1190 RS, their flagship and pride and joy. Made with all the engineering and performance traits they admire in a sport motorcycle, it’s the culmination of years of learning, victories, setbacks along with an unrelenting passion to build a motorcycle of their our own on their own terms.

“We’re happy to share it with the world but honestly we were just more than happy to get to ride it,” said Eric Buell. “Quite frankly the RS turned out better than we ever expected, we knew from the beginning we could build this motorcycle.”  “But we expected any number of roadblocks to knock us off track, after all starting a company at that time in the economic climate with no other goal than to produce high performance motorcycles, takes either a fair amount of ignorance or a big brass set.”

“But things kept falling in place and the reward was 176 kg’s of meticulously designed sports motorcycle propelled by our own powerful 175 hp EBR engine, it must have been fate.”

 “After RS there was nothing not could stop us surging ahead at a rapid pace, looking back we have come a long way with a number of new models, the RX 1190 a street-legal high performance motorcycle that is a direct descendant of EBR’s race-bred limited edition 1190 RS Superbike and the very recently launched SX 1190 Street Fighter,” said Buell

The breakthrough engine design and EBR’s racing-inspired handling features are coupled with all-new styling and scientifically-derived aerodynamics that rival the performance and drivability of any superbike produced by any manufacturer in the world. The multi-function digital instrument gauge cluster allows the rider to adjust performance parameters such as traction control, as well as to access numerous functions including track performance data, service intervals and system diagnostics.

All 3 Eric Buell models have only best tested and proven components, which includes the suspension, brakes, wheels tyres instrument’s along with the latest features see specs     

“We are really looking forward to the arrival of the EBR 1190 RS it will give a stunning EBR range and will join the new RX and SX models, the RX arrives this month followed by the SX and the RS”, said Craig Langton DP for EBR SA and the Cayenne Group. “The RS is currently running in the 2014 World Superbike series as part of their race development program and last month a stock standard RX won 4 races in a row in its first national superbike appearance at Phillip Island Australia beating all the race prepared brands on the track, at the same time every international road test for the RS and RX have been mind-blowing and the same story is coming through for the new SX, worldwide they are raving about the EBR’s so I guess we will see some great things from EBR on and off the track,” said Langton

For more information call Cayenne on 011 244 1900 or visit their web site www.cayenne.co.za  

The EBR 1190 RX made its Australian racing debut with a clean sweep of all four races in the National BEARS class for the Pirelli Race Series at Phillip Island.

Two weeks ago, EBR Australia took ASBK racer Chas Hern to Broadford for a video shoot with the new EBR 1190 RX. Expecting nothing more than some great footage, the team was surprised to see Hern making 60 second laps on a completely stock bike with road tyres.

The decision was made to enter Chas and the 1190 RX into the National BEARS class for round three of the Pirelli Race Series at Phillip Island, this time with only Pirelli race rubber and fibreglass fairings. The bike ran a standard exhaust, no quickshifter, no engine modifications, and standard street gearing, which is a little high for the Phillip Island.

Competing against a field of race prepared motorcycles that included Aprilia RSV4s, Ducati Panigales, KTM RC8 1190 s and BMW S 1000 RRs, Chas and the EBR 1190 RX took pole position in qualifying, and won all four races over the weekend, with a fastest lap of 1:38.065 in race 3.

After race 1, Hern said “I’m very impressed to say the least. It handles like a 600 - and the standard suspension package is fantastic. The bike is just so nimble on changes of direction - and even though we’re a little overgeared with the factory sprockets, the monster torque of the American 1190 engine gives me plenty of drive out of turns.

“The ergonomics are absolutely ideal for a race package. I hope I’m given the opportunity to continue developing the bike at the next round, where we might see a race system, quickshifter and different gearing fitted. But in the corners, it’s absolutely unbelievable!”

EBR Australia’s Joseph Elasmar was delighted with the results: “This is a testament to what the 1190 RX is capable of right out of the crate. We all knew Erik Buell’s credentials when it comes to street machines; this shows what his outside the box thinking can achieve on a racetrack. Frankly, we’re stoked. This is the beginning of EBR racing in Australia, and Chas was running a fairly consistent half second faster than the rest of the field.

“We’ll be back, I don’t think we can really turn up to our first race with a stock bike, win 4 of 4 races and then give it all up.” said Elasmar

“It was only matter of time for EBR achieve the results and Australia Superbike racing is very competitive,” said Craig Langton DP for the Cayenne Group. “They should clean up after they make the legal mods to the stock machine; it looks like there is a new hot contender in Superbike racing with this stock EBR RX 1190”.

For more info on Erik Buell Racing superbikes call Cayenne on 011 244 1900

For a comparatively small Italian motorcycle manufacturer, Beta has been making leaps and bounds in the enduro dirt bike world. Winning and leading a number of international events and classes. For 2015, Beta has completely revamped their four-stroke line up with new displacements and major changes throughout, while the two-stokes received refinements and trickle down improvements from Beta’s Racing Edition models.

“ Our team are very excited about the new 2015 model line up with all the new changes, we already had an excellent and competitive model range with the 2014 models, with the changes and improvements on the new 2015 models they have to be dynamite” said Craig Langton DP for Beta SA and the Cayenne Group. “Some of the models are with us at the moment and others are in the pipe line, we will make an announcement of their availability, arrivals and pricing later”.

Beta engineers were clearly hard at work in preparation for the 2015 model year, with changes announced for its bikes across the board. Substantial updates to the RR 4-Stroke engine (available in four capacities 350 cc, 390 cc, 430 cc and 480 cc) highlighting the coming year’s upgrades. In addition to the inclusion of a Beta/Synerject developed electronic fuel injection system for the new 350 RR.

The inclusion of EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection) on the 350 RR marks the first production Beta to be made available with Fuel Injection and the system comes with a 42 mm throttle body and stepper motor to ensure engine performance remains consistent in a wide variety of conditions.

2015 Beta RR
During the past few years Beta has focused primarily on chassis improvements but for 2015 the Italians are focusing on the powertrain, resulting in lighter engines for all motorcycles in the RR and RS range.

RR Four-Strokes: 350 EFI / 390 / 430 / 480

• All new displacements for optimum performance and handling
• New crankshaft, connecting rod, cylinder head, and piston
• Electronic Fuel Injection (350 only)
• Engine from the 2014 Factory Edition (350 only)
• Die-Cast Engine cases (up to  1.5 kg’s lighter)
• New front fork compression piston to improve oil flow and reduce harshness
• New rear shock piston to reduce heat
• Handlebar pad from Race Edition
• New design seat foam that is softer
• New graphics and colour scheme

Big News Is The Beta 350 EFI…

As the name says, the big news for the 350 cc thumper is EFI, the only model in Beta’s line up to have such. But the even bigger news is that the RR four-stroke enduro model line-up features three entirely new displacements. While the 350 stays the same size, each of the other models have downsized a bit, a switch that Beta claims creates “the perfect displacements.” Even though the new engine sizes are smaller in cc’s, Beta says that, with their completely new engine layout, the bikes “provide the same horsepower and torque as the 2014 models yet with more ‘usable’ power for the rider.”

Instead of minor changes, Beta renewed the entire engine for the 2015 four-strokes. Too many details to list, some of the main changes are a completely redesigned main cases which are now die-cast saving as much as 1.5 kg’s , new oil pump drive system, redesigned crank case chamber, lighter clutch and flywheel covers, lighter crankshaft shoulders, lower-positioned combustion unit for better mass centralization, a new piston, cylinder and redesigned head. All of the changes were to make the motor more compact, lighter, and more efficient.

The chassis’ also have some upgrades and these improvements are applied to all 2015 Beta models. The suspension received some changes by way of a new compression piston with “three slot” geometry in the Sachs fork, designed to improve oil flow and make it more direct so as to absorb violent impacts more progressively. The Sachs shock has a new piston to reduce heat to provide more stable performance over long rides. New graphics also grace every model and last, but definitely not least, the seat gets a much-needed softer foam. 

RR Two-Strokes: 250 / 300

Beta didn’t leave out the new 2015 2 strokes they also got a new face lift across the board and now have the competition-honed power plants from the Race Edition models. The motor features an updated power valve, new CDI mapping, new cylinder, and new combustion chamber. The stock FMF exhausts are also new and shaped differently for the 250 and 300 cc machines. All of the chassis and suspension changes above apply to both the 250 and 300 models. Other new mods are rear shocks, race handle bar pad, new softer seat and new graphics

• Engine from the 2014 Race Edition

• Updated power valve for more linear power delivery under all conditions
• New CDI mapping to match new engine
• New front fork compression piston to improve oil flow and reduce harshness
• New rear shock piston to reduce heat
• Handlebar pad from Race Edition
• New design seat foam that is softer
• New graphics and colour scheme

For more information on the new Beta 2015 models call Cayenne on 011 244 1900  

MILWAUKEE (August 25, 2014) – Harley-Davidson^® takes fit further with the 2015 Ultra Limited Low motorcycle, a new model that offer the lowest seat height, and the highest rider confidence, available in a premium touring bike. The seat is slammed to get a rider’s feet closer to the road, but that’s just one of the ergonomic enhancements built into this new Low model that offers more freedom to more riders, right off the showroom floor.

From the width of the primary drive housing to the diameter of the hand grips, Harley-Davidson went over its premium Touring motorcycles from top to bottom, responding to customer input to develop a better fit for riders as short as 5 feet 5 inches tall. Visually indistinguishable from standard Harley-Davidson Touring models, the Ultra Limited Low is also equipped with the full complement of Project RUSHMORE features that have recalibrated the expectations of touring for motorcyclists. The look, sound and feel of the premium Harley-Davidson Touring experience is unaltered, but the fit will be right for more riders.

“With this new model we are addressing the important issue of fit, perhaps the ultimate expression of personalization,” said Michelle Kumbier, Harley-Davidson Senior Vice President of Motorcycle Operations. “This Low model will allow many riders to feel more comfortable and more confident when they settle into the seat.”

The Ultra Limited Low shares a package of features designed to work together to address comfort and fit issues specific to riders of shorter stature.

• A seat height of 25.6 inches – 1.7 inches lower than the Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Ultra Classic model and the lowest of any premium touring motorcycle on the market today – allows more riders to place both feet flat on the ground when the motorcycle is stopped. A new low-profile seat reduces the reach to the foot controls. Premium front and rear suspension lowers the bike’s center of gravity and makes it easier to lift the motorcycle off its side stand, yet delivers outstanding comfort and handling.

• The width of both the primary drive housing and derby cover has been reduced to further improve leg clearance to the ground.

• A new handlebar places hand controls two inches closer to the rider, putting many riders in a more comfortable position that can reduce back and shoulder strain.

• Smaller-diameter hand grips reduce finger reach to the brake and clutch levers.

• Assist and Slip hydraulic clutch reduces lever effort, a key benefit in stop-and-go traffic.

• A new passenger footboard mount allows the footboards to be folded up so they are out of the way when pushing the motorcycle in a garage or driveway.

• A new toe tab extension reduces foot reach required to retract the side stand.

The 2015 Ultra Limited Low redefines touring motorcycle refinement. The Twin- Cooled™ High Output Twin Cam 103™ engine delivers steady performance in any riding situation.  A Touch screen and GPS navigation are features of the 100-watt Boom! ™ Box 6.5GT infotainment system. Contrast chrome Impeller cast aluminum wheels, rich two-tone paint schemes, a premium Tour-Pak luggage rack, premium saddlebag travel bags and a premium Tour-Pak travel-pak are among the deluxe features of the Ultra Limited Low.

MILWAUKEE (August 25, 2014) – Propelled by Project RUSHMORE, the global launch of the Street^™750 motorcycle and the electric buzz of Project LiveWire^™, Harley-Davidson^® (NYSE:HOG) stays hard on the throttle with the introduction of its 2015 model line-up. Combining world-class aerodynamics, exhilarating audio performance and dialed-in ergonomic fit, Harley-Davidson expands its diverse offering of motorcycles and gives riders more ways than ever before to lead their own pack to the open road.

“The broad 2015 Harley-Davidson model lineup demonstrates our commitment to delivering amazing products to our customers through world-class, customer-led product design,” said Matt Levatich, President and Chief Operating Officer, Harley-Davidson Motor Company. “We are one with our riders around the world, and everything we do is about delivering what they expect and deserve from Harley-Davidson.”

MILWAUKEE (August 25, 2014) – The 2015 Harley-Davidson^® Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO)^™  line-up wields big paint, killer wheels, massive power, exclusive technology, and custom-shop details to create four fabulous, limited-production factory custom motorcycles ready to stir the soul of the most demanding rider.

The all-new CVO^™ Street Glide model is a hot-rod bagger boasting a new Boom! Audio system backed by 600 watts of power streaming through four bi-amped front and rear three-way speakers for exhilarating volume and clarity. Boasting best-in-class aerodynamic performance, the all-new CVO^™ Road Glide Ultra model combines a full complement of premium touring amenities with triple slipsteam vents on the all-new frame-mounted fairing. Long-haul travel with style is the mission of the CVO^™ Limited model, refreshed for 2015 with new polished chrome Slicer wheels and the Airflow Collection of accessories. The nostalgic character of the CVO™ Softail^® Deluxe model is updated with a new braking system and two-tone paint options.

Harley-Davidson CVO motorcycles are customized using exclusive components and paint treatments combined with numerous items from Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Accessories. The CVO program is often used to introduce new custom components and techniques before they are offered as individual accessories.

Each Harley-Davidson CVO model is powered by a 110ci V-Twin engine, the largest-displacement Original Equipment engine offered by Harley-Davidson and only available from the factory in CVO motorcycles. The 2015 CVO Limited, CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide Ultra feature the Screamin’ Eagle^® Twin-Cooled^™ Twin Cam 110^™ engine with a combination of air-cooled and precision liquid-cooling strategies to maintain peak performance under the most demanding loads and riding conditions. The 2015 CVO Softail Deluxe is powered by the Screamin’ Eagle Twin Cam 110 V-Twin engine. All models are equipped with the Assist & Slip Clutch Pack that provides a slip feature on downshifts to reduce loading of the driveline, and hydraulic clutch actuation to reduce lever effort and maintenance. Harley-Davidson CVO models are factory-equipped with electronic cruise control, Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), keyless ignition and the H-D Factory Security System, and an indoor/outdoor storage cover with the CVO logo.