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  1. Nolan's designed for exploration

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    On two wheels, everywhere can be an adventure. For those riders who love combining on-road and off-road riding and venture wherever their imagination takes them, here are two highlights from the Nolan line-up that they may want to consider: 

    N70-2 X

    The ultimate in versatility, the N70-2 X has up to eight different configurations so that the helmet can be easily adapted to any ride. Choose to ride with or without the protective chin guard and between an adjustable peak or visor depending on the adventure. 

    Made in Italy, the 22.06-compliant N70-2 X is dual homologated - meaning it can legally be worn as an open-face or full-face helmet. It features a flip-down adjustable Vision Protection System (VPS) sun visor with UV protection up to 400nm and a scratch-resistant ultrawide Pinlock® compatible visor.

    Nolan’s ‘AirBooster’ technology ensures optimal ventilation by directing air from the upper intake to critical areas for cooling and the inner liner is made from Top Clima Comfort with micro-perforated fabrics.

    The versatility of the helmet is reinforced by the range of eight colours and graphics available. From all-over single colour shades made by Nolan at its Bergamo-based plant, to more unusual combinations. 

    Available in sizes XXS-XXL, with an RRP from £279.99, this helmet is the perfect choice as an all-round helmet for every taste and eventuality out there. 

    X-552 

    Combining cutting-edge performance with a sleek carbon design, the X-552 is the ultimate choice for those who want a premium off-road quality helmet with a sleek street-style design. The Nolan X-552 helmet stands out both on and off the beaten track. 

    Nolan prides themselves on excellence, and the X-552 is no exception: with an ultrawide, scratch-resistant visor that has UV protection up to 400nm and is Pinlock®-equipped, see clearly no matter the weather. 

    The X-552 features an adjustable peak to enhance aerodynamics and comfort, as well as a wind protector and a breath protector to prevent visor fogging. Inside, the Steadyfit® cheek pads offer a secure yet comfortable fit, with optional pads available to purchase to tailor the fit. 

    Safety is first with this helmet: the X-552 is fully compliant with the latest UN/ECE 22-06 safety regulations for rider confidence. 

    Nolan curated the X-552 with connectivity in mind: the helmet is pre-configured to be able to accommodate four of Nolan’s N-Com communication systems. These include the new M951 X series, B902 X series, B602 X series and the ESS III. 

    Ranging from sizes XXS-XXXL, the Nolan X-552 retails at £469.99. 

    The Nolan story, news and initiatives are told by the company through the official social channels Instagram and Facebook – tag @nolangroup - #EmbraceTomorrow #RedefineYourElegance

     
     
     
     
     
  2. Indian Motorcycle Gears Up for the 43rd Faro Rally in Portugal

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    Indian Motorcycle, America’s first motorcycle company, is set to make a strong showing at the 43rd Faro Rally, one of Europe’s most iconic biker gatherings that takes place in Faro, Portugal from July 17–20, 2025.

    This year, Indian Motorcycle brings a full throttle experience for rally-goers, especially members of the Indian Motorcycle Riders Group (IMRG). Riders who purchase their Faro Rally ticket through the Indian Motorcycle Algarve dealership will receive an exclusive IMRG Welcome Pack.

    At the heart of the action, Indian Motorcycle will host a dedicated hospitality area exclusively for IMRG members, a display of Indian Motorcycles, and a designated parking zone for owner’s bikes in front of the official booth. The Faro Rally also serves as an official stop for the Indian Motorcycle Rally, inviting riders to connect with fellow enthusiasts from across Europe.

    A major highlight of the weekend will be the Motoclube Faro’s Grand Prize Draw, where one lucky participant will ride away with a brand-new Indian Motorcycle—a fitting celebration of biker spirit and freedom.

    “The Faro Rally is one of Europe’s most anticipated motorcycle events, and Indian Motorcycle is proud to be part of the experience again this year,” said Miriam Torrens, Marketing Manager for Indian Motorcycle Iberia. “We look forward to welcoming IMRG members and all rally visitors to our booth for an unforgettable celebration of riding culture over four days with rides, music, giveaways, and camaraderie.”

    Event Dates: July 17th – 20th, 2025

    Location: Faro, Portugal

    Event Details: https://www.motoclubefaro.pt/

    Join us for four days of rides, music, giveaways, and camaraderie—Indian style.

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

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    ABOUT INDIAN MOTORCYCLE®
    Indian Motorcycle is America’s First Motorcycle Company®. Founded in 1901, Indian Motorcycle has won the hearts of motorcyclists around the world and earned distinction as one of America’s most legendary and iconic brands through unrivalled racing dominance, engineering prowess and countless innovations and industry firsts. Today that heritage and passion are reignited under new brand stewardship. To learn more, please visit www.indianmotorcycle.eu

    INDIAN and INDIAN MOTORCYCLE are registered trademarks of Indian Motorcycle International, LLC. Always wear a helmet, protective clothing and eyewear and insist your passenger does the same.  Ride within the limits of the law and your own abilities. Read, understand, and follow your owner’s manual. Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

     

     

  3. Jorge Martin Approaches Return After Doctors Declare Him Fit for MotoGP Test

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    Jorge Martin has been cleared by MotoGP’s medical director to get back on his Aprilia for a one-day test. The reigning champion, who has not raced since Qatar, won’t feature at the German Grand Prix. His first competitive appearance of the season might only come the week after.

    German GP Odds Placed Him Among the Favourites

    Before confirmation came that he’d miss Sachsenring, Martin’s odds to win there were sitting at 7/4 at various online bookmakers not on Gamstop that offer extensive betting markets, competitive odds, and enticing promotional offers. Only Francesco Bagnaia had shorter odds, while Pedro Acosta’s line floated just behind. It said a lot about how oddsmakers viewed Martin’s ability to rebound fast, and it underlined how close he’d come to making a proper return.

    For a rider recovering from cracked ribs and a healing scaphoid, 7/4 showed more than optimism, it signalled faith in what he could still do on a bike. Many expected a push for the title, or at least a string of strong performances starting in Germany. Now, the earliest he can do that is Brno.

    Martin’s Season So Far

    Martin’s 2025 has been disjointed and opened the podium for other contenders. In Qatar, the only race he has ridden so far, he crashed and was run over by Fabio di Giannantonio. He’d already been nursing an injured wrist before that. The crash left him hospitalised in Doha, with rib fractures and renewed damage to his scaphoid. It was only after weeks back in Europe that recovery began to take shape.

    A recent update from Dr Xavier Mir pointed to solid progress in the wrist. Movement was almost back to normal, but the bone itself hadn’t fully set. As for the ribs, MotoGP medical director Angel Charte confirmed that most fractures were healing well, though not yet fully fused.

    The clearance for Martin to ride again doesn’t mean a return to racing just yet. The current MotoGP rules, which changed earlier this season, allow a test session specifically for riders recovering from long-term injury. That’s what Martin’s been cleared for. Just a single day, on a limited tyre allocation, to see how much pain he’s in and how far he’s come.

    It’s worth remembering that the test is meant to be a stepping stone, not a comeback race. The number of tyres allowed is restricted to three sets. No full race simulation, no pushing to the limit. Just a controlled session to measure movement, comfort, and stability on the bike.

    Aprilia Holding Back, For Now

    The call now sits with Aprilia. Despite having the go-ahead from MotoGP’s top medical figure, the team has said they won’t confirm the Misano test until another round of medical checks is completed next week. They’ve not committed to anything yet, which lines up with the cautious stance they’ve taken since Qatar.

    Some of that caution may come from elsewhere. Martin’s current contract situation remains unresolved. His status with the team is still unclear heading into 2026, and it’s no secret that there have been complications behind the scenes. Aprilia backing the new injury test rule made sense when it was first proposed, but that doesn’t mean they’ll rush into using it now.

    Key points on the situation:

    • Martin has medical clearance for a one-day test, possibly at Misano.

    • Aprilia hasn’t confirmed it will go ahead with the session.

    • Another medical assessment is scheduled before any final decision.

    • Only three sets of tyres are permitted under the new regulation.

    The test rule itself is new. It wasn’t on the books before this year. Aprilia had pushed for it ahead of Martin’s attempted comeback in Qatar. At first, rival teams resisted it. Eventually, the rule was adopted in time for the French Grand Prix. Martin is now the first rider to be cleared under it.

    The irony is that Aprilia were the ones who lobbied hardest for the rule change, hoping it would help speed up Martin’s return. Now that he qualifies for it, they’re the ones holding back.

    His Title Defence Has Faded

    With five races already gone and at least one more to miss, the championship picture is no longer realistic for Martin. Even with perfect form from Brno onwards, it’s hard to see a way back into contention. The maximum he could have earned from those five events was 125 points. He currently has none.

    MotoGP’s 2025 calendar runs for 20 rounds. The title isn’t mathematically gone, but it’s as good as. Bagnaia has passed the 100-point mark already. Others like Acosta and Bastianini are stacking up consistent finishes. Martin can still win races, but the idea of a full title defence is out the window.

    That might actually work in his favour. Without pressure, he can focus on getting fit, riding freely, and proving to future employers that he’s still fast. Whether Aprilia wants to keep him or not, Martin’s next contract will depend on what he shows in the second half of the year.

    For now, there’s little point in chasing a championship that’s already slipping away. The priority is simply getting back on the bike and building rhythm again.

    Possible Brno Return, If Test Goes Well

    If Aprilia goes ahead with the Misano test and if Martin completes it without setbacks, the Czech Grand Prix becomes the likely target for a return. That event falls one week after Germany. It’s also a track where Martin has been strong in the past, and one that could suit his rhythm if his body holds up.

    A return there would give him half a season to build momentum, not for the championship, but for his next contract, his reputation, and whatever team he lines up with in 2026. All of that depends on Misano first, then on Aprilia saying yes.

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Photo by Olav Tvedt on Unsplash

     

     

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  4. Indian Motorcycle UK offers the chance to be part of rock history at Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath’s Final Show

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    Indian Motorcycle, America’s first motorcycle company, is offering UK riders the chance to be a part of rock history with a ticket prize draw for ‘Back to the Beginning’ – Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath’s Final Show that will see the original lineup of Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward performing for the first time in over 20 years.  Indian Motorcycle UK offers the chance to be part of rock history at Ozzy O

    Taking place on Saturday, 5 July, at Villa Park in Black Sabbath’s hometown of Birmingham, the all-day, all-star event will celebrate Black Sabbath’s outstanding musical legacy with sets from iconic bands such as Metallica, Slayer, Pantera, Gojira, Halestorm, Alice In Chains, Lamb Of God, Anthrax, and Mastodon, as well as a supergroup of famous musicians from across the world.

    Indian Motorcycle are delighted to offer a pair of Gold Standing Tickets worth £1,200. The best in the venue, these tickets are front section, prime position, right by the stage. The ultimate way to experience Black Sabbath’s final ever live performance.

    Indian Motorcycle is delighted to offer a pair of Gold Standing Tickets worth £1,200. The best in the venue, these tickets are in the front section, prime position, right by the stage—the ultimate way to experience Black Sabbath’s final-ever live performance.

    With the event selling out in minutes, the ticket prize draw is an incredible opportunity to attend one of the most significant live music events of the decade where Ozzy Osbourne will perform a short solo set before joining Black Sabbath for his final bow.

    For full terms & conditions and details on how to enter, UK riders simply need to visit the link below before midnight, Sunday, 29 June 2025:

    blog.indianmotorcycle.co.uk/en/black-sabbath-comp

     

     

     

  5. Riding 92 up – 92-year-old rides Route 66 in support of Air Ambulances UK

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    It’s never too late to take that life-changing trip - and this Spring, Orange & Black Motorcycle Tours supported 92-year-old Jean Scott to do just that. Jean got in touch with us in April with a dream of discovering the iconic Route 66 by motorcycle and experiencing a life-changing trip, not just for her, but for those in need of vital air ambulance services. Fast-forward to June, and Jean swapped her local Somerset coast for the California Coast, taking to the road with our legendary tour guide and Route 66 expert Gary “Bear” Fleshman on the back of his Harley-Davidson Road Glide for her bucket list adventure. 

    Gary says “We don’t usually offer pillion only rides, but we’re all for people finding their freedom through riding and we wanted to help Jean experience that after she got the bug in her youth. Next year Route 66, or the “Mother Road” as it’s commonly known celebrates its centennial, so we thought it only fitting that Jean come along for the ride and get a jump on hitting her own centennial milestones.”

    Starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, Jean explored historic landmarks and sights including the Blue Whale of Catoosa, Route 66 Museum and Grand Canyon, covering 2700 miles, 13 days of riding, 8 states and battling all weathers. Jean can well and truly say that’s one adventure ticked off her bucket list. 

    Jean says of her trip “The whole experience has been full of highlights. I think my favourite places to visit have been Kansas and Oklahoma as I’ve heard a lot about them but had never been before; and the Grand Canyon – that was breathtaking.”

    Jean’s inspirational road trip of a lifetime has also made a mark on Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, who she is currently raising money for. The registered charity provides vital services for the local community and is one of the UK’s 21 air ambulance charities that form part of the fleet of 37 helicopters. Collectively, the charities make over 126 lifesaving missions a day and play a pivotal role in supporting emergency treatment of patients within their communities, not least motorcyclists.

    Dave Marsh, Sales and Operations Manager at Orange & Black says, “We pride ourselves on helping customers create their dream trip and Jean is a great reminder that it’s never too late to make those dreams a reality. It’s brilliant to see that this trip has not only changed her life, but those of the people in both her local community, and the wider biking community.”

    Contributions to Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance can be made via Jean’s fundraising page www.gofundme.com/f/jeans-66-journey

    Find out more about the mission of Air Ambulance UK www.airambulancesuk.org
    Check out Jean’s life-changing trip https://youtu.be/E4FEgJeUjlA?si=hCQJAnPvrw5qJkVk

    Discover more about Orange & Black www.orange-and-black.co.uk