KTM UNVEILS NEW 990 SUPERMOTOThe NEC show in Birmingham was the venue for the unveiling of KTM's new 990 Supermoto. It's powered by a fuel-injected LC8 999cc engine (the 942cc twin in the 950 Supermoto used carbs) tuned to produce 116hp and 97Nm or torque, making it one of the maddest supermotos on the market. The engine isn't just compact, it's also the lightest 1000cc twin on the market at just 58kg. The carry-over chromoly frame is both stiff and lightweight (just 11kg) which helps keep the new 990 Supermoto's overall weight to just 191kg.
The short wheelbase and near 65 degree steering angle ensures lurid sideways antics for those so inclined. KTM promises that the 990 will be civilised as well, though, thanks to its WP front and rear suspension while four- and two-piston Brembo callipers (radial up front) should offer impressive braking.
KIMI CELEBRATES F1 CHAMPIONSHIP WITH NEW CHOPPER
German chopper builder Walz Hardcore Cycles presented Kimi Raikkonen with a custom-made bike to commemorate his Formula One World Championship victory this year. The new chopper is painted "Rosso Corsa" with lots of matte black paint and powercoated components to match the colour scheme of his F1 Ferrari. A Ferrari logo adorns the front mudguard and rear wheel hub, while the word "Iceman" is painted on the tank - a nickname he earned for his seeming inability to smile. The Iceman is powered by a 96 cubic-inch (1580cc) Harley-Davidson twin-cam V-Twin with modified heads and a ceramic-coated exhaust system.
The Iceman II also boasts a Legends Air Ride rear suspension, a bespoke swingarm, Walz Hardcore brakes and a massive 280/40-18 rear tyre. This is the second Iceman chopper presented to Kimi - the first was a silver and black machine given to him when he was driving with McLaren Mercedes.
OCC LAUNCH PRODUCTION BIKES
Orange County Choppers (OCC), made internationally famous by their reality TV show, American Chopper, has launched a range of production motorbikes.
Four bikes are currently offered; the T-Rex Softail (the only bike with a proper rear suspension); the Splitback; the Web and the Greenie, each with a distinctive theme and style. Each is powered by S&S V-Twin engines with Baker Right-Side-Drive six-speed transmissions and a Harley-Davidson closed primaries. The wheels, frame and handlebars are all unique OCC creations with many high-end manufacturers supplying bespoke components such as the exhaust system, lights, auxiliary controls and seats. Prices start at around $32,000 (€21,500).
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