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Category: Motorcycles

  1. Indian Motorcycle Announces 2023 Model Year Lineup; Revises FTR Lineup & Debuts Indian Challenger Elite

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    FTR lineup adds fresh, vibrant colours, while New FTR Sport, FTR Rally & FTR R Carbon upgrade to 101 mm Round Touchscreen Display with Navigation*
    Indian Challenger Elite delivers the ultimate in style & exclusivity; new sapphire blue smoke paint with Black Smoke & Titanium Metallic Smoke combine premium quality with head-turning style
    From Scout to Indian Pursuit, the 2023 lineup offers models & styles for any rider; new Indian Motorcycle accessories further expand personalisation options
    Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, today announced its 2023 model year lineup, featuring the new FTR Sport and Indian Challenger Elite, along with various model updates and new accessories across the line. In addition, the 2023 lineup features a variety of new colour options, highlighted by vibrant colour schemes for FTR and FTR Sport on newly designed tank covers.

    “Fully loaded with models and styles for the widest range of riders, the 2023 lineup is a powerful testament to our team’s relentless effort to build and refine a truly comprehensive product offering over the past nine years,” said Mike Dougherty, President for Indian Motorcycle. “This effort has been focused across the line and within each model lineup, as evidenced by the introduction of the FTR Sport – the addition of which creates four unique FTR offerings, each with its own style and personality.”

    FTR: An American Original
    Headlining the 2023 model year news is the introduction of a new FTR mid-range trim, the FTR Sport. Replacing FTR S, the FTR Sport sits just below the premium FTR R Carbon, but above the FTR and FTR Rally – creating four distinct trim models for riders to choose from.

    Designed for riders to cut loose and enjoy the pure sport of motorcycling, the FTR Sport’s bold aesthetics and sporty componentry, including a number plate, chin fairing and seat cowl, take the FTR’s energetic attitude to another level. The FTR Sport touts a new tank panel design and is available in Black Metallic with Indy Red accents or White Lightning with Indy Red and Black Metallic accents. A totally unique take on American V-twin performance with an unmistakable, muscular style, the FTR truly is an American original.

    New for 2023, the FTR Sport, FTR Rally and FTR R Carbon are upgraded with a 101 mm round touchscreen display powered by RIDE COMMAND, featuring navigation*. Three ride modes (Sport, Standard, Rain) provide unique performance experiences for varying preferences and riding conditions, while Lean Angle Sensitive Stability Control and ABS provide confident, predictable handling in all conditions.

    All four FTR models now offer a new sport exhaust muffler, and a retuned front braking system, which provides a firmer feel. Indian Motorcycle also moved the speedometer up for easier viewing and added a new clutch for improved feel and performance.

    The FTR Rally features 19 and 18-inch spoked wheels wrapped with knobby tires and is available in new Black Smoke paint with Desert Earth frame and the iconic Indian Motorcycle Headdress logo emblazoned across the tank.

    The FTR R Carbon separates itself as the premium offering with carbon fibre components, premium seat, fully adjustable Öhlins gold front forks and a gold piggyback shock. The iconic Indian Script logo tank panels are exclusive to the FTR R Carbon, which is finished with classy Cloud Silver and Championship Gold pinstriping.

    While primary componentry carries over for the entry FTR, the new tank panel design, as seen on FTR Sport, and the addition of bold, vibrant colours, the refreshed FTR further broadens the appeal of the FTR lineup to more riders. The entry FTR is available in Metallic Black, contrasted by Lifted Lime branding with matching rear shock, or Stealth Gray, featuring Orange Burst branding, rear shock and wheels.

    For added personalization, Indian Motorcycle is launching nine new FTR accessories. Through a brand partnership with Gilles Tooling, Indian Motorcycle is offering co-branded pieces, including Performance Adjustable Rearsets, and three Billet components: Bar End Weights, an Oil Cap and a Radiator Cap. Performance Adjustable Levers will also be available in spring 2023. In addition, Indian Motorcycle has expanded its carbon fibre offering with three new pieces, including an Exhaust Heat Shield, Frame Guard and a Sprocket Cover. To enhance comfort, Indian Motorcycle has introduced a durable and weather-resistant Comfort+ Seat, which combines comfortable ergonomics with additional padding where needed most.

    Indian Challenger Elite: Ultimate in Style & Exclusivity
    For riders looking for something more exclusive and elevated from the rest, Indian Motorcycle is offering the 2023 Indian Challenger Elite. With only 150 available in total and less than 50 outside of America, the limited-edition bagger makes a bold statement with its premium Sapphire Blue Smoke Paint with Black Smoke and Titanium Metallic Smoke Accents.

    The perfect blend of style, performance and comfort, the Indian Challenger Elite is sure to turn heads on streets and crush miles on open highways. The PowerPlus engine touts a best-in-class 90 kW horsepower and 178 Nm of torque, and its premium amenities and advanced ride-enhancing technology deliver a ride experience that’s second-to-none. Indian Challenger Elite’s long list of premium features include the following: three selectable ride modes, electronically adjustable rear suspension preload from Fox®, Smart Lean Technology, an adaptive LED Headlight, LED driving lights, an adjustable flare windscreen, Select floorboards, heated grips, 165 mm Powerband Audio with Saddlebag Speakers, and a new Precision Cut five-spoke wheel. All-in, whether riding two-up for a weekend adventure or commuting solo, the Indian Challenger Elite delivers the ultimate in style and exclusivity.

    2023 LINEUP: A Diverse Range for Any Rider
    Touting a wider range of models and options than ever before, the 2023 Indian Motorcycle line offers a model suited for any rider and a host of new upgrades, including:

    • All Thunderstroke and PowerPlus models receive a new clutch – improving the overall feel and forgiveness. This new slipper clutch reduces engine drag which provides a smoother down shifting experience and comfortable ride while improving your ability to maintain traction when facing poor road conditions. Lastly, the larger friction zone and decreased lever effort reduces your clutch fatigue, which can be beneficial in urban areas or when riding in traffic.

    • Indian Springfield, Chieftain, Indian Challenger, Roadmaster and Indian Pursuit models feature a redesigned LED headlight, which improves reach and spread of light – helping the rider see what lies ahead, while also improving their visibility to other motorists on the road.
    • Integrated buttons on the Heated Seats and Heated and Cooled Seats for PowerPlus and heavyweight Thunderstroke models now feature haptics, which allow riders to feel the button’s responsive when wearing gloves.
    • Indian Pursuit Premium Package** models now offer Lower Fairing Storage compartments as standard.

    Across the line, Indian Motorcycle has introduced an array of new paint colours for international markets, including Sagebrush Smoke for Chief Dark Horse plus Stryker Red Metallic on Roadmaster Limited and Indian Pursuit Dark Horse. Bronze Pearl Metallic is a new colour option on Roadmaster Limited and Indian Springfield models, while Titanium Smoke is introduced to Indian Challenger Dark Horse. For a comprehensive view of the lineup’s new paint options, please visit IndianMotorcycle.media.

    For 2023, Indian Motorcycle is introducing an array of functional accessories. First, in partnership with CruzTOOLS®, Indian Motorcycle is launching three accessories, including two tool kits compatible with all models and an axle adapter for FTR models. To add storage to most models, a new All-Weather Vinyl Tail Bag attaches to select passenger seats or luggage racks. In addition, a new Syndicate Heated Seat is available for Indian Challenger models, while a Reduced Reach Kickstand is now available for all Indian Challenger and Indian Pursuit models.

    For the Chief line, Indian Motorcycle is launching two new bag options. The Chief Fork Bag attaches securely to the front of the handlebars and is perfect for storing smaller items like gloves, glasses, cell phones or water bottles. The new Chief Bobber Saddlebags are water-resistant and add convenient storage without sacrificing style.

    For added comfort, Indian Motorcycle is offering Chief riders an upgraded Comfort+ Solo Seat and a two-up Syndicate Seat. The Comfort+ Solo Seat pulls design inspiration from old-school muscle car interiors. The top is plusher than the stock seat and contours to hold the rider securely and comfortably. The new Chief Syndicate Seat complements the bike’s distinct design, while adding comfort and support for both rider and passenger. The Syndicate Seat is made with a durable, weather-resistant black vinyl that won’t fade.

    For Chief passengers, Indian Motorcycle is introducing the Low Profile Passenger Backrest, which complements the bike’s style and adds cushioned support to the passenger’s posterior.

    Lastly, the new Quick Release Low Profile Trunk is factory engineered to add exceptional style, passenger comfort, and extra storage space to Indian Motorcycle bagger and touring models, while still maintaining a streamlined look. The hinged, lockable lid lifts to the side with the assistance of a gas strut for ease of opening, as well as to stabilise the trunk while open. The trunk bottom is covered with a soft, automotive-quality liner to reduce cargo from moving while riding. The Quick Release Low Profile Trunk’s 46 litre volume easily fits two half helmets, gloves, and a jacket, and with a 10 kg cargo limit is perfect for day trips and small adventures. Quick Release technology lets riders install or remove the trunk quick and easily without tools and no mounting hardware remains on the motorcycle.

    For more information on Indian Motorcycle visit IndianMotorcycle.eu and follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

  2. Suzuki boosts small capacity range with three new scooters

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    Suzuki has given its small capacity range a boost with the unveiling of three new 125cc scooters, with the new Address 125, Avenis 125, and Burgman Street 125EX revealed today at Intermot in Cologne, Germany.

    All three are engineered to provide comfort, practicality, and outstanding urban performance while also delivering excellent levels of economy and efficiency, but they do so in their own way and with their own style, giving customers the option to enjoy their city, their way.

    Engine 

    The proven Suzuki Eco Performance (SEP) engine sits at the heart of all three machines, though the Burgman Street 125EX uses the latest αlpha iteration. The air-cooled, single-cylinder powerplant currently powers over five million Suzukis worldwide, and is the forward-looking engine development concept from Suzuki, which results in an outstanding level of environmentally responsible performance, both in terms of low fuel consumption and low emissions. 

    All three models achieve an impressive 148.67mpg figure and produce just 44g/km of CO2 emissions. At the same time, they still deliver powerful acceleration, with peak horsepower and maximum torque delivered at low rpm. 

    For the Avenis 125 and Address 125 this is 8.7PS at 6,750rpm and 10Nm at 5,500rpm. The Burgman Street 125EX’s peak power of 8.6PS comes in at 6,500rpm, while peak torque remains the same.

    The Burgman Street 125EX, equipped with the SEP-α engine, benefits from extra features which enhance the user experience while at the same time achieving a high levels of fuel economy and quiet operation, including Engine Auto Stop-Start (EASS), a new idling stop system, and Suzuki’s new Silent Start System. 

    A

    ddress 125 

    Inspired by traditional scooter design, the Address 125 boasts classic city style, with curves and attractive body lines punctuated by chrome accents, completed with the classic rounded headlight, which is full LED, as are the position lights and integrated indicators. There’s also a tail-mounted cap, finished in chrome, designed to facilitate easy refuelling and ensure there is no risk of spillages on the floorboard or bags. 

    The classic style also extends to the clocks, with an analogue speedometer sat atop a digital display. Wrapping around the speedometer is a handy eco indicator, which illuminates green when the Address 125 is being ridden in an economical manner, encouraging fuel efficient riding. Starting is easy with one push of the button enough to start the engine, thanks to Suzuki’s Easy Start System.

    21.8 litres of underseat storage give plenty of storage space, plus an upfront storage pocket gives easy access to frequently used items, above which sits a USB charger for smartphones. Dual utility hooks provide extra security for transporting bags or other items. There are also two underseat hooks which can secure helmets when parked, which is made even simpler thanks to centre and side stands coming as standard. 

    While parked a shutter concealing the ignition key hole provides additional security. To open, an easy-to-operate magnet mechanism is coded to the owner’s key. It also includes a seat opener that eliminates the need to remove the key to access the underseat utility compartment. 

    With a ready-to-ride weight of 105kg it is easy to handle and highly manoeuvrable. The Address’ underbone frame is built using large-diameter, thin, round tubes, designed to minimise weight while maximising rigidity and also to provide excellent straight-line stability and positive cornering performance. 

    Stopping power comes from a 190mm diameter disc brake in the front and a 120mm drum brake in the rear, while a combined braking system ensures a stable braking performance by distributing force to both the front and rear wheels when the left brake lever is operated. 

    The Address 125 rides on a short wheelbase that contributes to ease of manoeuvrability and works in conjunction with the light, slim design to offer easier, more agile handling. The slim design, low seat height and seat shape help make it easy to place both feet on the ground. 

    Avenis 125 

    Providing sporty city fun, the Avenis 125 aims to balance performance, style, and practicality; sharp, aggressive looks complement edgy, and dynamic lines, with an upswept tail section and stylish front cowling with floating meter visor. Lighting comes from an aggressive, stacked-lens body-mounted LED headlight, plus vertically-oriented LED position lights add a striking accent to the face. 

    Distinctive graphics on the sides of the front cowl highlight the scooter’s aggressive attitude, and black metallic-finish emblems add a sophisticated touch. 

    A sporty two-tone seat with attractive red stitching is firm yet comfortable, with ample padding and a richly textured surface that provides a secure grip when riding. In addition, its carefully crafted shape makes it easy for the rider to put both feet on the ground when stopped, along with cutaway footboards. 

    A digital instrument panel for the Avenis 125 features a compact LCD screen with a clean and intuitive layout, and it also gets a handy eco indicator light to highlight fuel efficient operation by the rider. 

    The chassis comprises an underbone frame that contributes to the Avenis 125’s fuel efficiency, excellent straight-line stability, and positive cornering performance. As well as a short wheelbase and semi-soft front suspension settings that provide a smooth and comfortable ride, along with a rear shock that is finely tuned to deliver solid road-holding performance, and agile handling. 

    Similar to the Address 125, Suzuki’s Combined Brake System supports well-balanced braking by distributing braking force to both the front and rear wheels when the left brake lever is operated. Hardware features a 190mm diameter disc brake at the front and a 120mm drum brake at the rear. 

    Practicality comes from 21.5 litres of underseat storage – with two helmet hooks – dual utility hooks for carrying extra items, an open upfront pocket and one shutable compartment housing a USB charging port. Like the Address 125, a shutter concealing the ignition key hole can be opened quickly, using an easy-to-operate magnet mechanism coded to the owner’s key. There’s also a standard fit centre stand a side stand. Riders can also lock the rear brake via a switch on the left lever, when parking. 

    Burgman Street 125EX 

    The Burgman Street 125EX is the smart city commuter, tailored to excel and brings a new level of elegant style and performance. It stands out with its fusion of class, style, performance, comfort, practicality, and convenience. 

    Comfort is taken care of with a long, well-padded seat. Generously proportioned floorboards allow flexibility in foot positioning to maintain a comfortable riding position, while extended footboards up front let the rider extend their legs for greater comfort when cruising. 

    The look of luxury and sophistication is created with elegant lines and a sense of volume from its striking bodywork to the red stitching on the seat, distinctive lighting and integrated turn signals, and attention to detail. 

    A clean LCD dash displays information to the rider, including the eco indicator light, as well as an indicator for the Engine Auto Stop-Start (EASS). 

    Like the Avenis, there are 21.5 litres of underseat storage and two helmet hooks, plus two utility hooks for carrying extra items.  It also features a closable front compartment with a USB charging port and an additional easy access front storage compartment, next to which is the ignition key slot which can be covered using a magnet mechanism coded to the owner’s key. 

    A longer wheelbase provides impeccable great straight line stability and gives a solid, planted feel and comfortable ride. A firmer suspension setup for the front suspension helps achieve a smooth ride quality, with the spring rate and operation of the front forks optimised for the front wheel weight distribution. Settings for both the forks and rear suspension are finely tuned to the tyres and wheels to achieve a fine balance of stability, road-holding performance, agile handling, and a comfortable ride, even when passing over uneven surfaces. 

    With a longer wheelbase, strong braking performance is maintained thanks to a larger diameter drum brake, at 130mm. It also gets a combined brake system to modulate braking force between the front and rear wheels when using the left brake lever. 

  3. Suzuki announces pricing of two new scooters

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    Suzuki has announced pricing for its new Address 125 and Avenis 125, with the more traditionally styled Address coming with an RRP of £2,499 when it arrives in early 2023, while the sportier Avenis will be available at £2,699.

    Both models use the proven Suzuki Eco Performance (SEP) engine, delivering an impressive 148.67mpg figure and producing just 44g/km of CO2 emissions. At the same time, they still deliver powerful acceleration, with peak horsepower and maximum torque delivered at low rpm.

    The Address 125 boasts classic city style, with curves and attractive body lines punctuated by chrome accents, completed with the classic rounded headlight, which is full LED, as are the position lights and integrated indicators. There’s also a tail-mounted cap, finished in chrome.

    21.8 litres of underseat storage give plenty of storage space, plus an upfront storage pocket gives easy access to frequently used items, above which sits a USB charger for smartphones. Dual utility hooks provide extra security for transporting bags or other items. There are also two underseat hooks which can secure helmets when parked, which is made even simpler thanks to centre and side stands coming as standard.

    With more angular, aggressive lines, and engineered for sporty city fun, the Avenis 125 shares many of the Address’ practical elements, but adds an additional, closable front storage compartment.

    Like the Address 125, a shutter concealing the ignition key hole can be opened quickly, using an easy-to-operate magnet mechanism coded to the owner’s key. There’s also a standard fit centre stand a side stand. Riders can also lock the rear brake via a switch on the left lever, when parking.

    Pricing for the new Suzuki Burgman Street 125EX, also announced at Intermot along with the Address and Avenis, will be confirmed in due course.

  4. Sunra study highlights exceptional affordability of EV two-wheelers

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    Following the completion of an internal study at Sunra UK, where the team set out to understand owner habits better in a climate where the cost of living is ever under scrutiny, the two-wheel EV brand is pleased to bring some encouraging findings, highlighting the exceptional value of small EV motorcycles and scooters in the process.

    Conducted by the same team responsible for bringing the forward-thinking electric brand to the UK market, the group looked into rider habits, costs of ownership and comparable social spending habits, uncovering some interesting insights in the process.

    Logan Black of Sunra UK commented, “It’s been interesting to learn more about the habits of our customers and at the same time look more at the affordability picture too. Not only do we understand our customer base better, but it’s been interesting to see how running and finance costs are considered alongside daily purchases, such as something as simple as a cup of coffee.”

    In the study, the team looked at a variety of daily, weekly and monthly outgoing costs for typical users, understanding priorities and how users had rationalised their spending to fund or run an EV bike such as a Sunra.

    Aside from looking at the cost of purchase, the team looked at the cost to recharge and run, providing very real-world insights into making the switch to electric.

    Black continued, “Discussing how our customers use their bikes gave us a great insight into their habits, allowing us to look more closely into typical running costs. Based on an official government survey*, we were able to calculate 3300 miles as a typical yearly average for use in this segment, before looking at energy costs and real-world range to understand this better. Under current energy pricing, we found that an electric bike equivalent to a ROBO-S model can cost as little as £55 per year in electricity costs, or less than £5 per month for example.”

    As well as looking at plug-in recharge costs, the team also considered general ownership, looking at finance too and comparable daily living allowances that customers make.

    Looking at direct consumer outgoing comparisons further highlighted the low cost of ownership of two-wheel EV machines, with typical monthly payments* half that of some rail travel cards, while even the comparison of a typical household outgoings, such as a satellite TV subscription were surprisingly similar too, with Sunra EV bikes available for as little as £77 per month, with sensible deposits.

    “We were keen to make sure everything we looked at was comparable to real life”, added Black. “Finance is popular with our customers, so we looked at typical monthly costs based on our own program to understand comparable costs. The comparisons and consumer rationale, combined with impact in the rise of cost living, gave us some interesting insights that further demonstrate what exceptional value an EV two-wheeler brings.”

  5. Electrified SEAT MÓ eScooter 125 receives August discount in boost for affordable urban mobility

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    • Special offer for August makes SEAT MÓ available from £4,999 OTR
    • MÓ provides a significant step towards accessible urban electric mobility
    • As the cost-of-living rises, MÓ provides an accessible answer to urban mobility at a discount until 31 August
    • Expertly designed electric motorcycle with state-of-the-art removable battery for easy charging
    • Capable of 59mph maximum speed with a range of 85 miles (WMTC), MÓ is available to order from 24 selected SEAT retailers
    • Visit https://www.seat.co.uk/ for more information

    Milton Keynes, 16 August 2022 – The innovative SEAT MÓ eScooter 125 is available from just £4,999* OTR throughout August, providing an accessible answer to zero emissions urban mobility at a discounted price point.

    With the cost of living rising, riders can save over £800 on the fully electric eScooter, enabling fleet and private buyers to travel more efficiently and conveniently.

    Capable of 59mph and with a range of 85 miles (WMTC), the innovative electrified urban transport solution incorporates a state-of-the-art removable battery for easy charging at home or at the rider’s place of work.

    Available now from participating retailers, the offer is available until 31st August, providing nearly 14% off the previous OTR price of £5,800.   

    Richard Harrison, Managing Director, SEAT UK, explained: “SEAT MÓ provides a truly compelling proposition for urban mobility. It is affordable, convenient and zero emissions mobility at its best. It is fully up to the demands of modern urban travel with its ample range and ease of changing, while being extremely fun to ride.

    “With the UK Government’s 2030 deadline looming, our two-wheeled electric vehicle is an ideal solution for the travel needs of motorists across the UK, including many who might never have considered a motorcycle previously.”

    The SEAT MÓ eScooter is equivalent to a 125cc motorcycle, priced at £4,999 OTR for August, it is also available from £79.40 per month (48 months) on PCP with a £99 deposit**, making it an affordable proposition for those wanting to spread the cost.

    Integrated into the SEAT MÓ’s rear wheel is a 9kW electric motor (peak power) – equivalent to a 125cc motorcycle or scooter – that produces 240Nm of torque, giving the city electric motorcycle a top speed of up to 59mph and a 0-31mph acceleration time of only 3.9 seconds. It also benefits from a Combined Braking System (CBS), alongside regenerative braking for improved range and a reverse gear.

    Customers can choose between three driving modes: City, Sport and Eco, as well as a reverse gear to make manoeuvring simpler.

    Further simplifying the ownership experience, the eScooter 125’s battery can be charged in situ or removed and placed nearer to a three-pin plug socket for convenient and safe charging.

    Available in three striking colours – Daring Red, Dark Aluminium, and Oxygen White – MÓ fuses dynamism, urban design and bold, contemporary looks with an incredibly low cost of ownership to offer a vehicle that is at home in the city and on the open road.

    For more information on the SEAT MÓ and its range of accessories, visit www.seat.co.uk

     

     

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