Category: Motorcycles

1. Langen Motorcycles are invited to participate in The Festival of Speed at Goodwood 13th-16th July

   Posted on 12:00pm Wednesday 12th Jul 2023

   • Langen Motorcycles have, once again, been invited to ride the stunning Two Stroke up the iconic hill at this year’s Festival of Speed.
   • Leading journalists, influencers and racers have been scrambling for the handful of places available to ride the Langen Two Stroke at the most prestigious event on the automotive calendar.
   • Chris Ratcliffe, the CEO of Langen, is keeping tight-lipped as to who he has allocated the rides.
   • The Langen Two Stroke will make two appearances a day across the four days of the festival.

    

   Langen Technology Limited (Langen), one of the leading automotive engineering and development companies specialising in low volume motorcycles, will once again be making an appearance at the Festival of Speed. Each day two lucky people will have the opportunity to crack open the throttle and experience the thrill of riding this beautiful, hand built 90° V-Twin Cylinder 2-stroke machine up the twisting course in front of the crowds at Goodwood.

   Since unveiling the first two custom personalised machines to their recipients at the NEC’s Motorcycle Live event in November 2022, there has been a steady stream of deliveries to customers of the limited edition Langen Two Stroke.

   What makes this motorcycle unique is the intoxicating 250cc V-twin engine combined with the focus on simplicity, the reduction in weight using modern technology and materials, along with the use of components of the highest quality. Modern design meets Great British traditional craftsmanship.

   Being born as a side project in the Ferrari factory, the first version of the V-Twin was realised in 2014 by Vincenzo Mattia as a brutal GP race engine delivering 95bhp. The patented fuel injection and ECU controlled lubrication system have enabled Langen and Vins to develop the purebred V-Twin into a durable, controllable engine which meets modern emissions regulations. The well-mannered power delivery allows a predictable ride with endless, addictive torque on tap. Take the needle upwards of 9,000 rpm for an experience like nothing else on the road.

   Drawing on a wealth of experience and expertise, Langen pride themselves on producing a whole motorcycle package which can not only contend on the race-track but also provides a confidence inspiring and unequalled ride on the road.

   Langen’s specialism echoes the great Colin Chapman “simplify then add lightness”. Relentless design, testing and optimisation of every component and system on the bike enables The Two Stroke to weigh in at an incredible 120kg translating to over 600bhp/tonne. The aluminium space-frame chassis provides the optimum stiffness, weight and geometry to give incredible cornering speeds, change of direction with reassuring stability, at 130mph.

   Christofer Ratcliffe Founder and CEO of Langen comments: “We are delighted to be back at Festival of Speed, it gives a premium, niche manufacturer like us the opportunity to showcase this stunning motorcycle to a knowledgeable and appreciative crowd.

   We are constantly inundated with requests from journalists, influencers, and industry professionals to review and ride The Two Stroke and we have hand-picked the people we think will do it justice to offer them this exclusive opportunity.

   Our customers who have already been in receipt of their bikes report only one problem – every journey is extended due to the large crowds the Langen draws wherever it goes and the constant stream of interesting questions from admirers.

   At Langen we believe that “cars move the body, yet motorcycles move the soul” - it demonstrates the intangible and unmatched human experience of riding and owning a Langen. Where better to demonstrate this than at the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2023.

   Discover more at: https://www.langenmotorcycles.co.uk/ 

2. Indian Motorcycle London To Host The Unique ‘Tokyo Connection’ Custom Indian FTR

   Posted on 12:00pm Sunday 9th Jul 2023

    

   Indian Motorcycle London is delighted to announce the exclusive display of the highly acclaimed custom Indian FTR, ‘Tokyo Connection.’ The result of a unique collaboration between renowned Japanese custom bike builder, Cheetah, and the UK’s Sideburn Magazine. ‘Tokyo Connection’ will be showcased at Indian Motorcycle London in Kensington from July 11th to July 31st, providing a perfect opportunity for motorcycle enthusiasts to witness this extraordinary masterpiece. Originally revealed at the Bike Shed Moto Show earlier this summer, ‘Tokyo Connection’ gained significant attention at the show and on social channels through its combination of Japanese craftsmanship, British ingenuity and American Moto culture. Its design elements reflect the rich heritage of Indian Motorcycle while incorporating a modern and dynamic aesthetic. “We are delighted to give everyone in the UK another opportunity to see this remarkable FTR after its recent trip to Wheels & Waves,” said Claire D’auria, marketing manager for Indian Motorcycle UK & Ireland. “This motorcycle represents the true spirit of collaboration and Indian Motorcycle London provides the ideal setting for displaying ‘Tokyo Connection.’ Its modern and stylish dealership environment perfectly complements the artistry and craftsmanship of this exceptional custom bike.” Visitors to Indian Motorcycle London during the display period will have the opportunity to explore the unique features and intricacies of the ‘Tokyo Connection.’ The motorcycle showcases striking details and hand-painted graphics that reflect its fusion of Eastern and Western influences. Its bespoke exhaust system, custom seat, and expertly fabricated one-piece petrol tank and seat cowl further enhance its overall appeal, making it a truly unique collector’s item. In addition, visitors will be able to purchase from a selection of very limited apparel that was released alongside ‘Tokyo Connection’. The range includes:  A heavyweight hoodie in light grey with Cheetah brush script Indian Motorcycle logo on the front, Indian Motorcycle company logo on one sleeve, ‘Tokyo Connection’ illustration by Cheetah and script on the back Black or White T-shirts with Cheetah brush script Indian Motorcycle logo on the front, company logo on one sleeve, ‘Tokyo Connection’ by Cheetah and script on the back An embroidered Snapback Cap For more information on, and how to find, Indian Motorcycle London, please visit their website. As part of the build, a series of videos follows the project from the build to its unveiling and beyond. To follow all the videos as they are released, bookmark the YouTube Playlist ‘Tokyo Connection’ Custom Indian FTR Handmade aluminium tank cover and seat cowl bodywork by Cheetah Custom Cycles (@cheetah_4d.studio) Centre panel on the tank cover fabricated and engraved by Cheetah Air scoop for front disc brake by Cheetah Chromoly subframe designed by Cheetah, fabricated by Garage Ducktail (@ducktail_watanabe) Aluminium petrol tank designed by Cheetah, fabricated by Garage Ducktail Leather seat by Atelier Tee (@ateliertee) Paint by S Paint Works (@spaintworks_aki @spaintworks) Signwriting by Shakin @grindandbrush S&S Grand National exhaust system, Cerakoted Stormtrooper White Indian Motorcycle x Gilles Tooling rearsets Indian Motorcycle x Gilles Tooling brake & clutch levers Indian Motorcycle x Gilles Tooling radiator cap Indian Motorcycle x Gilles Tooling oil cap 19in FTR Rally front wheel, powder-coated black & rebuilt by Hagon 19in rear rim, laced to FTR Rally hub by Hagon Dunlop DT4 dirt track tyres Neken dirt track handlebars Rizoma mini indicators

3. ‘RAGE’ – Custom Indian Sport Chief By Krazy Horse

   Posted on 12:00pm Wednesday 14th Jun 2023

   British interpretation of the Sport Chief using traditional techniques built for Welsh rock star Richard Jones of The Stereophonics
   Richard Jones tattoo designs incorporated into the build   

   
   Indian Motorcycle and Krazy Horse reveal ‘RAGE’ – the custom Indian Sport Chief built for Richard Jones, bassist for the Welsh rock band, The Stereophonics. Using design elements from Jones himself, traditional fabrication methods for a more British look and performance modifications suitable for the British roads and riding style, ‘RAGE’ lives up to the name with its aggressive look.

   Krazy Horse, a long-time partner of Indian Motorcycle, has been building custom motorcycles for 28 years, working with trusted collaborators to build some of the finest custom Indian Motorcycles in the world. As part of the concept of the ‘RAGE’ build, the team were keen to use traditional methods where they could, including hand sand-cast detail elements that linked to the personal history of Richard Jones and a nod to the recent ‘Forged’ series of Sport Chief builds in the US.

   Paul Beamish MD of Krazy Horse – “I am blown away by how this bike has come together in such a short time, we could not have done it without our fantastic partners who always manage to pull it out of the bag for us. And as ever the dedication of the Krazy Horse Team has made it possible.”

   Richard Jones, a founding member of The Stereophonics, grew up in a traditional mining village in South Wales and followed his father into the steelworks before hitting the big time in music. Having started riding as early as 11, motorcycles have always been a part of Jones’ life, as have tattoos, a design element that has created a personal link to the build.

   “It’s one of my passions, being on the bike. It takes me to a totally different place,” said Jones. “Paul asked if I had any imagery that they could use in the bike design. And it instantly came to me, I have tattoo designs on my plectrums for every tour we do and I selected an Ace of Spades design death card. It was really great to find out that this design would be traditionally hand sand cast and that I’d get to see this happen. For me, being at the foundry took me way back to when I was a teenager because I used to work in the steelworks in South Wales. It’s quite inspiring knowing that people still have these traditional techniques and working with Paul and his team has been brilliant.”

   Continuing the theme of traditionally handcrafted elements, Adrian Smith of Buckland Automotive Engineering was commissioned to make a one-off belly pan, wrapping around the front tyre in a performance style reminiscent of drag bakes. Hand-beaten and using traditional tooling from another era, the belly pan has three swages that tie into the triple LED lights in the headlight, accents that will be appreciated by those with a good eye for detail.

   OJZ Engineering also brought their traditional specialist tube manipulation and fabrication skills to build a bespoke 2 into 1 performance exhaust that features quality bends, beautiful welds and a traditional megaphone style.

   Finished with a sprinkling of quality control parts from Wunderkind, an elegant paint scheme from Pageant Paint and the Rich Jones Ace of Spades design painted on the saddle by BamBam, ‘RAGE’ stands out as a uniquely British interpretation of the Indian Sport Chief and again highlights the vast customisation possibilities of the new Indian Chief lineup.

   ‘RAGE’ Indian Sport Chief

   • One-off 2 into 1 performance exhaust from OJZ Engineering

   • Billet performance air filter

   • One-off belly pan with hidden cooling louvres by Buckland Automotive Engineering

   • Sand-cast aluminium side covers designed by Krazy Horse

   • One-off Sand cast aluminium derby cover inspired by Rich Jones

   • Sports Paintwork by Pageant Paintwork

   • Hand-painted seat with Rich Jones tattoo design painted by BamBam

   • Indicators relocated into the fairing and rear fender

   • Additional parts from Wunderkind include:

   o Handlebar grips
   o Clutch and brake levers
   o Master cylinder covers
   o Footpegs and shifter

   For more information on Indian Motorcycle visit IndianMotorcycle.eu

4. Frank Stephenson Design teases its first two-wheel project

   Posted on 12:00pm Thursday 8th Jun 2023

   • Leading design house Frank Stephenson Design teases motorbike at Barber Vintage Motorsport Museum, USA
   • New design, currently under development, promises to redefine the boundaries of motorcycle design
   • Barber Vintage Motorsport Museum has an extensive collection of over 1,400 motorcycles and showcases the rich heritage and evolution of bikes in an awe-inspiring arena
   • Full design reveal in the second half of 2023

   Birmingham, USA. – Wednesday 7 June 2023 - Trailblazing design studio Frank Stephenson Design has offered an exciting glimpse into the future of motorcycles during a captivating design talk held at the renowned Barber Vintage Motorsport Museum.

   The event provided attendees with an exclusive "first look" at an innovative motorcycle design currently in development.

   During the engaging presentation, Frank Stephenson, visionary designer, and founder of Frank Stephenson Design, delivered a thought-provoking discussion on the future of design from Birmingham, Alabama. The museum's circuit served as the backdrop for this captivating event, allowing enthusiasts and design aficionados from around the globe to join the excitement virtually.

   With its meticulous curation, interactive exhibits, and stunning architecture made the Barber Vintage Motorsport Museum the perfect place to host such an event. As a true gem for motorcycle enthusiasts and history buffs alike. With an extensive collection of over 1,400 motorcycles, including rare and iconic models, the museum showcases the rich heritage and evolution of these two-wheeled marvels in an awe-inspiring display.

   Frank Stephenson Design recognises the stagnant state of innovation in the motorcycle industry, which has seen little change or radical design advancements in recent decades. Eager to disrupt the status quo, the studio has seized the opportunity to reimagine the concept of motorcycles and has embarked on an ambitious project to create a motorcycle that embodies the future of this dynamic industry, which includes the propulsion method.

   During the presentation, Frank Stephenson Design revealed a design under development that promises to redefine the boundaries of motorcycle design. Incorporating cutting-edge technology and forward-thinking features, this motorcycle for the future is set to revolutionise the industry and captivate the imagination of motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide.

   "Our goal is to challenge the industry's lack of innovation and present a motorcycle that embodies the future," stated Frank Stephenson during his captivating talk. "At Frank Stephenson Design, we see a tremendous opportunity to disrupt the current landscape and introduce a motorcycle that incorporates advanced technology, radical design elements, and unparalleled functionality. As a motorbike enthusiast, it’s fair to say this is also a personal passion project of mine. "

   The design, currently in the developmental phase, promises to incorporate several ground-breaking features that will push the boundaries of traditional motorcycle design. Among the highlights is the potential to incorporate a hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system for cleaner and sustainable motorisation, cross-segment riding capabilities with adjustable ride height and seating style positioning, active aerodynamics, and customizable control ergonomics. This forward-looking motorcycle design is expected to introduce advanced technologies and innovations that could shape the motorcycle industry by 2030.

   Frank Stephenson Design is committed to revealing the final design later in 2023, as the studio is diligently working to refine and perfect every aspect of the design, ensuring a truly exceptional and revolutionary product.

   For more information about Frank Stephenson Design and to stay updated on the latest developments, please visit www.frankstephenson.com

5. Indian Motorcycle reveals its second ‘Forged’ custom Sport Chief build

   Posted on 12:00pm Thursday 11th May 2023

   Indian Motorcycle continues its ‘Forged’ custom Indian Sport Chief video series, releasing the second of its three-bike build series. For this build, Indian Motorcycle tapped Jake Cutler from Barnstorm Cycles to create a one-of-a-kind custom Sport Chief for highly decorated MMA fighter, T.J. Dillashaw.

   When designing the bike, Cutler wanted to create a locked-in riding position. To achieve this, Cutler narrowed the tank and added knee cutouts to allow T.J. to tuck into the bike for a more comfortable and secure riding position. For the seat, Cutler used custom upholstery with gripper fabric. The handlebars are raised two inches with a slight pull back, while the front end was lifted an inch. With colour-matched wheels, the bike’s high-finish paint was completed by Blue Moon Kustoms in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

   “The end result of the bike is pretty much how I mapped it out,” said Cutler. “The colours are where I wanted them to be, the design is what I was hoping it would be.”

   The Indian Motorcycle ‘Forged’ series will conclude with the final build by Carey Hart, set to debut May 18.

   Parts List: 2023 Indian Motorcycle Sport Chief Beringer Brake Master and Clutch Cable Control Barnstorm Hand Control Transition adapters Barnett +2″ Clutch and Brake Cables Barnstorm “Lane Splitter” +2″ Pullback Handlebar Risers for Chief Models Indian Motorcycle Stock Sport Chief Moto style Handlebars Joker Machine Left Side Bar end Mirror Hart Luck ODI Grips Front end lifted 1″ with Bareknuckle Performance Indian Challenger Fork Extension Kuryakn Bullet Atto Amber front turns LED Headlight with custom extension mount. Joker Machine Pegs “Race” Foot Pegs RSD Traction Shift and Brake Pegs Barnstorm Chief/Chieftain Final drive chain conversion Barnstorm + Audette Motorcycles Complete Thunderstroke Engine cover set Revere cam cover Renegade horn cover Revere outer valve covers “BBolt” Sprocket Cover Barnstorm + Audette Motorcycle Moto Hi-Flo air intake Barnstorm signature hand fabricated Stainless Steel 2-1 Exhaust system with custom heat guards. TIG welded with full argon back purge. Finished with an internal ceramic coating and mirror polished. Indian Motorcycle stage tune thanks to the team at Moms of Manchester, NH Barnstorm Chief “Slim Subframe Strut and Fender Conversion” Kuryakn Bullet Atto red rear run/turn/brake lights, laydown license plate mount and LED Plate frame. Barnstorm “BBolt” Primary Cover medallion Barnstorm signature modified gas tank with hand-fabricated “Knee cuts.” Custom seat upholstery stitched by Seamless Custom in Leicester, Massachusetts Custom Powder coating done by C.A.S. Services in Oxford Massachusetts Custom paint-sprayed Blue Moon Kustoms in Oshkosh, Wisconsin Video Episode 1 Video Episode 2