Category: Motorcycles

1. Indian Motorcycle’s Gary Gray honored with induction into The Sturgis Hall Of Fame

   Posted on 12:00pm Monday 18th Aug 2025

   Indian Motorcycle’s Gary Gray honored with induction into The Sturgis Hall Of Fame     Indian Motorcycle Vice President of Product Technology, Racing and Service Celebrated for Distinguished Career, Highlighted by Influential Motorcycle Innovation and 11 Racing Championships STURGIS, SD – August 6, 2025 – In a momentous recognition of achievement and influence, Gary Gray – Vice President of Product Technology, Racing and Service for Indian Motorcycle – has been inducted into the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame. Honored for his exceptional contributions to motorcycling, the induction highlights Gray’s decorated career marked by leadership, innovation, and unwavering dedication to the industry. With a career spanning nearly three decades, Gray has made lasting contributions to the industry through his work at Indian Motorcycle and Victory Motorcycles. Specializing in engineering and product development, his expertise and passion have seamlessly combined tradition with innovation, playing a key role in revitalizing and sustaining iconic brands. His leadership in both racing and technology has helped redefine the modern motorcycle landscape. “Gary’s contributions, not just to Indian Motorcycle but to the entire industry, have been nothing short of extraordinary,” said Aaron Jax, Vice President of Indian Motorcycle. “His leadership, innovative vision, technical expertise, and relentless dedication have not only elevated our products and our brand, but have truly shaped how millions of people experience the sport of motorcycling. We are incredibly proud to celebrate this milestone with him and deeply grateful for the lasting legacy he continues to build.” For the past eight years, Gray has served as Indian Motorcycle’s Vice President of Product Technology, Racing and Service. Gray played a pivotal role in Indian Motorcycle’s return to racing – spearheading the development of American Flat Track’s most dominant race machine, the Indian FTR750. During his tenure, he led the brand to eight consecutive American Flat Track (AFT) premier-class championships, three King of the Baggers titles, and multiple land speed records. “It’s an incredible honor to be recognized alongside some of the most iconic and influential figures in motorcycling,” said Gray. “To be included in the Hall of Fame is deeply humbling and one of the proudest moments of my career. I’ve dedicated my life to this industry because I believe in the power of motorcycling to inspire, connect, and push the limits of what’s possible. I look forward to many more years of driving innovation, championing the sport, and giving back to the community that has given me so much.” Prior to Gray’s racing endeavors, he served as Indian Motorcycle product director, launching the 2014 Indian Chief, Chieftain and Roadmaster – the brand’s first models since relaunching under its parent company, Polaris Inc. Gray was an instrumental piece to the design and development of the Thunderstroke engine, an air-cooled powertrain still powering several baggers and touring models in the Indian Motorcycle lineup today.  Gray also helped launch the next-generation Indian Scout and its 999cc, liquid-cooled motor. As a founding team member of Victory Motorcycles, Gray shaped the brand’s rise in the American market. From 2005-2011, Gray served as engineering program manager and product manager for Victory Motorcycles – leading all engineering project teams designing Victory Motorcycles. From 1994-2004, Gray held multiple positions, including engineering program leader, project engineer, and manufacturing engineer. The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame proudly honor the remarkable individuals whose contributions have left a lasting impact on the motorcycle community. With profound respect and appreciation, the Hall of Fame celebrates visionary pioneers for their extraordinary achievements. Their passion and dedication continue to inspire future generations to embrace the camaraderie, adventure, and freedom at the core of motorcycling. For more information on Indian Motorcycle visit IndianMotorcycle.eu and follow along on Facebook and Instagram.

2. Royal Enfield’s ‘Custom World’ returns to Goodwood Festival of Speed with 4 legendary builds and an exclusive new build launch!

   Posted on 12:00pm Thursday 10th Jul 2025

   Debut of the custom ‘Sawn Off Shotgun’ exclusively at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2025. Four custom motorcycles, all based on the Shotgun 650, will all take on the historic Goodwood hill over the four-day event. Another chance to see the ‘Samurai’ from Sure Shot, ‘The Kingsman’ from Kingston Custom, and ‘Always Something’ from ICON Motosports. Goodwood House, Chichester, West Sussex - Royal Enfield is set to showcase four very special hand picked machines born out of the Custom World programme, bringing some of the very finest and unique custom builds - and the builders behind them - to the iconic Goodwood Festival of Speed, with each Shotgun 650-based motorcycle taking to the hill for the very first time. Seen for the first time at Goodwood Festival of Speed this year is the 'Sawn Off Shotgun' by Medaza Cycles, with the self-labelled 'sports-chopper' being crafted expertly from the Shotgun 650 foundations. Renowned as the brand for making the most custom friendly motorcycles in the world, the Festival of Speed showcase will demonstrate the true imagination, engineering and craftsmanship that comes from the collaboration between Royal Enfield and legendary custom motorcycle builders. These are the best of the best, hand-picked for your enjoyment as they take on the famous Hill Climb. Four unique builds, all based on the Shotgun 650 platform, each masterfully customised by some of the best custom builders in the world, will all tear up the hill together. These are set to be: Sure Shot's 'Samurai', ICON Motosport's 'Always Something', 'The Kingsman' from Kingston Custom, and the very special Goodwood launch exclusive from Medaza Cycles, the 'Sawn Off Shotgun' Three of the Four Motorcycles will be ridden by the builders themselves. Aikawa-San of Sure Shot, Japan, will be present to take to the hill with a sprint ready SAMURAI. Kingston Custom’s Dirk Oehlerking will ensure the Kingsman’s public dynamic debut does not disappoint, as the almost 4m long Royal Enfield will ascend the hill. Meanwhile the Sawn off Shotgun will launch at Goodwood, being ridden by Don Cronin and Mick O’Shea of Irish based Medaza Cycles. Lastly, the Icon Motosports build will feature friends of the brand riding across the weekend. Here you can find the latest custom builds showcased at Goodwood Festival of Speed, 10th - 13th July 2025. Sawn Off Shotgun Built by: Medaza Cycles - Base Model: Shotgun 650 Showcasing at: Goodwood, Malle Mile Always Something Built by: Icon Motosports - Base Model: Shotgun 650 Showcasing at: Wheels & Waves, Goodwood, Glemseck Samurai  Built by: Takuya Aikawa (Sureshot) - Base Model: Shotgun 650 Showcasing at: The Bike Shed Show, Wheels & Waves, Goodwood, Malle Mile The Kingsman Built by: Dirk Ohlerking, Kingston Custom - Base Model: Shotgun 650 Showcasing at: The Bike Shed Show, Wheels & Waves, Goodwood, Malle Mile, Glemseck About Royal Enfield The oldest motorcycle brand in continuous production, Royal Enfield has created beautifully crafted motorcycles since 1901. From its British roots, a manufacturing plant was established in Madras in 1955, a foothold from which Royal Enfield spearheaded the growth of India’s mid-sized two-wheeler segment. Royal Enfields are engaging, uncomplicated, accessible and fun to ride; a vehicle for exploration and self-expression. It’s an approach the brand calls Pure Motorcycling. Royal Enfield’s premium line-up includes Bear 650, Classic 650, Guerrilla 450 modern roadster, Hunter 350, Meteor 350, Super Meteor 650, Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 twins, the Shotgun 650, the new Himalayan adventure tourer, the Scram 440 ADV Crossover, the iconic Bullet 350, Classic 350 and Goan Classic 350. The company recently unveiled its new city+ motorcycle brand – the Flying Flea – a fresh take on urban mobility, blending authentic design with advanced technology. Riders and a passionate community are fostered with a rich profusion of events at a local, regional and international level. Most notable are Motoverse (previously Rider Mania), an annual gathering of thousands of Royal Enfield enthusiasts in Goa, and Himalayan Odyssey; a yearly pilgrimage over some of the toughest terrain and highest mountain passes.  A division of Eicher Motors Limited, Royal Enfield operates through more than 2000 stores across all major cities and towns in India and through nearly 850 stores in more than 60 countries around the globe. Royal Enfield also has two world-class technical centres, in Bruntingthorpe, UK, and in Chennai, India. The company’s two state-of-the-art production facilities are located at Oragadam and Vallam Vadagal, near Chennai. Across the world, Royal Enfield has six modern CKD assembly facilities in Bangladesh, Nepal, Brazil, Thailand, Argentina and Colombia.

    

3. Challenger brands at greater risk of motorcycle theft than mainstream marques

   Posted on 12:00pm Tuesday 24th Jun 2025

   • Challenger brands from China were at a proportionally higher risk of motorcycle theft than established makes during 2024
   • Analysis of DVLA data compares reported thefts with registered bikes to assess each model’s relative risk of being stolen
   • 1-in-8 owners of Tianying bikes were the victim of theft in 2024
   • Honda PCX the most stolen overall, but Honda SH350 statistically more likely to go missing, with 1-in-9 examples stolen last year
   • Suzuki, Kawasaki and Triumph the volume brands least likely to be stolen
   • BSA the least stolen brand overall, with just 1-in-3217 reported missing
   • Triumph Rocket III, the world’s largest-capacity production motorcycle, is proportionally the least stolen bike in the UK

   Challenger motorcycle brands entering the market from China and elsewhere were at a proportionally higher risk of being stolen last year than more established makes, analysis of DVLA data has shown. By contrast, owners of large-capacity and classic bikes were statistically the least likely to fall victim to motorcycle theft, with the Triumph Rocket III – once the world’s largest-capacity motorcycle – proportionally the least stolen bike in the UK.

   The Honda PCX (WW125) was the UK’s most stolen motorcycle of 2024, with 1,866 thefts reported to the DVLA. In fact, more Hondas were stolen last year than any other brand, with 6,573 thefts recorded – 50% more than second-placed Yamaha. However, Honda is by far the most popular brand with British bikers, with more than 550,000 in the country.

   Riders of high-performance machinery such as Honda Fireblades and Yamaha R1s may feel more of a target given their sky-high insurance premiums, but in reality the top ten most stolen bikes are nearly all A1 licence-friendly 125cc models.

   “Motorcycle thieves continue to target scooters and 125s far more than high-performance sports bikes,” said Alex Kefford, Head of Editorial at automotive PR agency loop. “The Honda PCX may be unlucky to find itself at the top of the charts, but then it is Britain’s fourth most-popular bike*. When we look at the figures in proportion, a very different picture emerges.”

   Challenger brands proportionally most likely to be stolen
   By assessing thefts as a proportion of the number of each make on our roads, it’s the challenger brands that left their owners facing a greater risk of having their bike stolen. Honda drops from 1st to 36th place as popular new entrants such as Lexmoto and Sinnis rank above it. Tianying is a relatively unknown name on these shores, but worryingly 1-in-8 of their bikes were stolen in the last year alone.

   Three Honda models most at risk
   At the individual model level, the top 10 motorcycles proportionally most at risk include three bikes from Honda. Topping this list is the Honda SH350 with 1-in-9 examples stolen last year, followed by budget-friendly scooters such as the Sinnis Connect, Keeway Cityblade and Motorini SXi – all of which are available for around £2,000.

   “Owners of these bikes might think their low price makes them less of a target in comparison to more exotic machinery. However, the evidence suggests they are the most at risk of becoming an unfortunate statistic. Their light weight and twist-and-go convenience makes them popular with commuters, but also makes them easy to hustle away or lift into the back of a van.”

   Triumph, Kawasaki, and Suzuki the volume brands least likely to be stolen
   At the opposite end of the scale, Triumph, Kawasaki and Suzuki were the volume brands least likely to subject their owners to the anguish of opening the garage door to find an empty space where their bike used to be. In fact, despite being the third most popular brand in the UK with nearly 263,000 on our roads, Suzuki owners faced only a 1-in-284 chance of having their bike nicked last year, versus 1-in-84 for Honda. Triumph fared even better, with only 1-in-480 bikes stolen.

   “This is perhaps more due to the bikes that each brand typically sells, rather than the result of any specific security measures. For instance, Honda offers a broad range of scooters and 125s, with the PCX being a big seller. By comparison, Triumph thrives in the adventure bike market with their Tiger range, while Suzuki and Kawasaki both predominantly sell 600-1000cc bikes that are less popular with motorcycle thieves.”

   World’s largest capacity bike also the least stolen
   Our analysis confirms this, with large-capacity bikes left relatively untroubled by the criminal fraternity. As if to underline this point, the Triumph Rocket III – featuring the world’s largest production motorcycle engine until Triumph usurped it with the Rocket 3 – finds itself the holder of another record, this time as the proportionally least stolen bike in the UK.

   Classic motorcycles are also largely untargeted by bike thieves, with Royal Enfield and Lambretta featuring highly on the list of infrequently-stolen marques. BSA takes the prize for the least stolen brand overall, with only 1-in-3217 reported missing last year.

   “Go big or go old seems to be the advice if you want a bike that stands a good chance of still being where you left it when you return.”

   “That said, there are plenty of bikes that weren’t stolen at all last year and therefore don’t make it into these figures, despite being incredibly popular. Top of that list is the Kawasaki ZX750, of which there are nearly 5,000 in the UK, yet none were reported stolen last year. The XL650 Transalp was Honda’s most theft-resistant bike of 2024, while Harley-Davidson has more zero-theft models than anyone else. When it comes to security, bigger really is better.”
   
   

   Most stolen motorcycles of 2024
   HONDA PCX (WW 125)	1,866
   YAMAHA GPD 125	1,222
   HONDA NSC 110	933
   HONDA SH 125	429
   HONDA CBF 125	398
   YAMAHA MT-07	253
   YAMAHA YBR 125	247
   YAMAHA MT 125	240
   KTM 125 DUKE	229
   SYM JET	211
   Source: loop analysis of DVLA data

    

   Most stolen motorcycle brands of 2024
   HONDA	6,573
   YAMAHA	4,332
   LEXMOTO	1,313
   SUZUKI	923
   KTM	885
   BMW	253
   PIAGGIO	592
   KAWASAKI	553
   SYM	533
   TRIUMPH	439
   Source: loop analysis of DVLA data

    

   Proportionally most stolen brands
   TIANYING	1-in-8
   JIAJUE	1-in-18
   MGB	1-in-20
   TALARIA	1-in-24
   SUR-RON	1-in-28
   SINNIS	1-in-31
   MOTORINI	1-in-31
   ASKOLL	1-in-32
   ZHONGNENG	1-in-32
   NECO	1-in-35
   Source: loop analysis of DVLA data

    

   Proportionally least stolen brands
   SUZUKI	1-in-284
   GILERA	1-in-359
   ROYAL ENFIELD	1-in-374
   KAWASAKI	1-in-376
   DUCATI	1-in-418
   TRIUMPH	1-in-480
   LAMBRETTA	1-in-1052
   HARLEY-DAVIDSON	1-in-1537
   MOTO GUZZI	1-in-1673
   BSA	1-in-3217
   Source: loop analysis of DVLA data

    

   Proportionally most stolen models
   HONDA SH 350	1-in-9
   KYMCO DOWNTOWN 125	1-in-11
   SINNIS CONNECT	1-in-11
   KEEWAY CITYBLADE	1-in-12
   HONDA ANC 125	1-in-12
   SINNIS AKUMA	1-in-12
   YAMAHA XP 560	1-in-12
   SINNIS MATRIX	1-in-14
   HONDA PCX (WW 125)	1-in-14
   MOTORINI SXI	1-in-15
   Source: loop analysis of DVLA data

    

   Proportionally least stolen models
   HONDA CB 1300	1-in-876
   SUZUKI GSX 1400	1-in-877
   HONDA CBR 1100	1-in-939
   KAWASAKI ZX 1400	1-in-983
   KAWASAKI VN 900	1-in-999
   HONDA VTR 1000	1-in-1006
   TRIUMPH THRUXTON	1-in-1018
   HONDA VFR 750	1-in-1059
   BMW R 1200 RT	1-in-1219
   TRIUMPH ROCKET III	1-in-1569
   Source: loop analysis of DVLA data

    

    

   article supplied

4. Introducing the new BMW Motorrad Concept RR

   Posted on 12:00pm Saturday 24th May 2025

   Munich/Cernobbio. As part of the prestigious Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este at Lake Como, BMW Motorrad unveils its latest creation for the superbike segment: the BMW Motorrad Concept RR as the ultimate performance statement in terms of technology and design for the future generation of BMW RR models.

   Markus Flasch, Head of BMW Motorrad: "Never before has BMW Motorrad provided such an early glimpse into a future generation of the RR models. The BMW Motorrad Concept RR is a true masterpiece of our development team, both technically and in terms of design language. Guided and inspired by the BMW Motorrad factory superbike M 1000 RR, with which BMW Motorrad factory rider Toprak Razgatlioğlu was able to dominantly win the FIM World Superbike Championship last year, the Concept RR offers a true firework of superlatives for both street and track use. The transfer from racing to road has never been shown more clearly. It represents BMW Motorrad's leadership claim to offer the highest engineering level and maximum performance in this segment."

    

   Maximum performance, based on the BMW factory superbike. 

   BMW Motorrad engages in motorsport out of passion and conviction – on the tracks of the Superbike World Championship as well as in numerous national and international championships. Every day, the BMW Motorrad team lives the symbiosis of engineering excellence and an unyielding drive for top performance anew. This dedication is reflected in every detail of our superbikes, and the valuable insights gained from racing are incorporated into our production models.

   In terms of propulsion, the BMW Motorrad Concept RR relies on the water-cooled inline four-cylinder engine of the world champion machine from the FIM Superbike World Championship, which already delivers more than 230 hp (169 kW). This promises pure adrenaline in terms of propulsion and reinforces the leadership claim in the superbike segment. Accompanying this are the electronic control and regulation systems that come directly from the WSBK M 1000 RR, such as the engine management, traction control, and engine brake.

    

   New benchmark in terms of lightweight construction and aerodynamics. 

   By innovative manufacturing techniques and the use of high-tech materials such as carbon and aluminium, the BMW Motorrad Concept RR sets new benchmarks in lightweight construction. From the frame to the smallest component, every detail is consistently optimised for lightweight construction and performance. The design also follows this principle: sharp, purposeful, expressive—with an embossed RR logo on the tail and an illuminated RR symbol on the downside of the delicate aluminium tail.

   The BMW Motorrad engineers placed special emphasis on aerodynamics, particularly on the challenging objectives of "riding stability at very high speeds," "maximum cornering speeds," and "minimal air resistance for optimal top speed." These competing goals are realised by the Concept RR through an unprecedentedly compact package, reduced external attachments, and enhanced precision of airflow, even through the motorcycle – from the ventilated front to the monolithic, also ventilated, aerodynamically optimised rear.

   In addition, the concept bike is equipped with an aerodynamically optimised fairing with integrated winglets and high-performance brakes – uncompromisingly perfected for ambitious super-sporty use on the road up to professional racing.

    

   The matching outfit – the jacket Concept RR LTD. 

   BMW Motorrad has been consistently implementing the claim to make motorcycling as safe and comfortable as possible with perfectly designed clothing, while also stylishly shaping the motorcycle lifestyle with attractive fashion, for more then 45 years. Today, it offers a comprehensive program of Riders Gear and Casual Wear. Once again, the maxim for BMW Motorrad is: Make existing things even better and simultaneously develop new innovative solutions. Accordingly, on the occasion of the presentation of the BMW Motorrad Concept RR, a unique lifestyle jacket was developed: the Concept RR LTD jacket, limited to 50 units. A masterpiece made of fine calf Nappa leather, crafted in cooperation with the Bavarian traditional company MEINDL, this jacket combines motorsport flair with the highest craftsmanship and exclusivity.

   Disclaimer. 

   The vehicles shown may be modified and fitted with third-party accessories and/or proprietary parts that are not manufactured, distributed or tested by BMW. BMW accepts no liability for the modifications (including the fitting, characteristics and use of the accessories shown). NOTE: Modification of series production vehicles (including the fitting and use of third-party and self-made parts) can impair riding characteristics! Riding our vehicles in modified condition is at your own risk.

    

    

    

    

5. Bike to the future? Škoda re-imagines the brand’s iconic L&K motorcycle for the Modern Solid era

   Posted on 12:00pm Thursday 15th May 2025

   • New Slavia B concept pays tribute to Škoda’s groundbreaking 1899 motorcycle
   • Concept takes the form of a futuristic café racer in Modern Solid style 
   • Design in-house at Škoda by exterior stylist Romain Bucaille
   • Concept features electric power and unique lighting signature
   • Slavia B is the first of a new series of reimagined Škoda classics

   Milton Keynes, 14 May 2025. Škoda’s passion for design has been a driving force for 130 years – with iconic models from the brand’s history continuing to provide design teams with inspiration. To highlight Škoda’s remarkable ‘back catalogue’ of classics, the brand has developed a series of re-imagined icons with models such as the 200 RS, 1203 van and Voiturette getting a 21st century reboot.

   Škoda’s latest concept is it’s boldest yet, and the first to incorporate the brand’s striking Modern Solid design language. The new concept takes its inspiration from one of the most important vehicles in Škoda’s history – the Slavia B motorcycle. Designed and built under the Laurin & Klement brand (the company that would eventually become Škoda Auto), the two-wheeler was incredibly advanced for its time and was responsible for cementing the brand’s reputation for innovation.

   Škoda’s Modern Solid design language blends minimalism with strength, focusing on bold shapes, clean lines, and functional forms. It reflects a shift towards electric mobility, sustainability and digitalisation.

   Given that the Škoda story began in 1895 with bicycles and later motorcycles, the brand’s decision to start its new series of classic concepts with a two-wheeler is fitting. Inspired by the 1899 Slavia B, the concept motorcycle retains the signature frame silhouette of the original, but strips it back for the electric age. The area once reserved for the combustion engine now sits open, with the Škoda logo seemingly suspended within the frame. A bold vertical line divides the front and rear sections, highlighting the sculptural balance between nostalgia and innovation.

   The concept was led by French designer Romain Bucaille, who normally works on Škoda car exteriors. “I wanted to go back to the brand’s roots,” he explains. “As someone who also loves motorcycles, this was a refreshing change and a great creative challenge.”

   The front of the concept nods to Václav Laurin’s pioneering work in motorcycle geometry and control, while a minimal, floating seat and integrated leather tool bag reference the bike’s sporting legacy. It’s a subtle homage to Narcis Podsedníček, the factory rider who famously finished the 1901 Paris–Berlin race aboard a Slavia B.

   Bucaille describes the final concept as a “futuristic café racer in Modern Solid style”, complete with clean contours, crisp edges, and a distinctive lighting signature – elements now synonymous with Škoda’s evolving design identity. The blend of simple volumes and functional details stays true to the brand’s current philosophy, while adding a modern twist.

   The design process was hands-on from the start. “I began with pencil sketches – it had been a while since I’d drawn a motorcycle,” Romain admits. “But the great thing about sketching on paper is that it’s instant. No need for a screen – just ideas flowing freely.” Those sketches eventually evolved into a trio of digital renders, each exploring different aspects of the concept’s form before the final design emerged.

   This reinterpretation of the Slavia B isn’t destined for production, but it does serve as a compelling statement of intent. With more iconic reworks to follow, Škoda is showing that its future vision is firmly rooted in a rich and inventive past.

   A full database of media assets relating to all Škoda production models is available at www.skodamedia.com.

    

    

   article supplied