Motorcycle News From MCN
Here is a selection of the Latest Motorcycle News from MCN.
Win an Arai helmet with the No Budget Cup
A new Arai crash helmet is just one of the prizes up for grabs in the first ever No Budget Cup three-hour endurance race, at Anglesey on September 12th. The new race series is aimed at riders who want to...
F**K! It’s the World’s coolest tail-light
Online blog Ze Last Chance Garage has dug up this collection of chopper tail lights. Ranging from the offensive but brilliant F**k to the obligatory Maltese Cross, they would a classy finishing touch to any chop. Big Daddy Roth style...
Video: Buell hints at 1190RR road bike return
Lamentably axed last year, Buell might soon be back in the roadbike business if a new picture and video showing a semi-road-legal 1190RR are to be believed. Watch the video They show a bona fide Erik Buell 11900RR race bike...
Camera bosses’ anger over sneaky speed trap shots
Speed camera bosses are refusing to speak to MCN after we printed pictures of an unmarked motorcycle used in covert operations. They bizarrely insist we should have shown them the shots of the sneaky speed trap before publishing them. The...
All of the 2009 and 2010 MV Agusta range is now available with 0% finance and a 25% deposit. MV is also offering an alternative 50/50 finance offer where customers can ride away for a 50% down payment and 24...
2010 Harley-Davidson XR1200R now in white
Harley Davidson has introduced a new white paint scheme for the XR1200R. The bike based on the iconic XR750 flat tracker, was previously only available in orange or a matt black for the higher specification XR1200X. Further reading:New SuperLow heads...
Best of bikemart: Modern classics up for grabs this week
We've been browsing MCN bikes for sale every day to bring you some of our top picks from over 10,000 motorcycles for sale. Read more modern classics news and features Here's just a few of the fantastic modern classic machines available this week: ...
Video: 2011 Husqvarna 449TC and 449TE in action
Husqvarna has released an official video of the 2011 449 TC and 449 TE models. The 2011 449s receive Kayaba suspension, new handlebars with handguards, both engine and chassis shockproof plastic guards, rear mudguards with incorporated racing number plate holder...
Just thought I'd say Steve Hislop passed away seven years ago today. We lost one of our best racers in that tragic crash. Missed by us all
MV Agusta Brutale 1099RR Cannonball - full review
The MV Agusta Brutale 1099RR Cannonball has been ridden and rated by MCN - you can read the full web review in the bike reviews section. Read the Brutale Cannonball review "The Brutale 1090RR Cannonball...
Harley-Davidson Panhead with a difference
This Harley-Davidson V-Twin “Panhead” boasts a mean-streets look and a host of unexpected mods. The bike has a 1951 FL motor, a 1939 EL transmission case, Pan gears and a 1949 wishbone frame, making it something of a time piece....
Krazyhorse distribute Zero Engineering
Revered Japanese custom builders Zero Engineering are now distributing their bikes throughout Europe, with the help of a UK firm. Krazyhorse Custom Cycles, of Bury St Edmunds, are responsible for the Japanese firms Euro market, so far selling 35 of...
Victory’s brand new 2011 ‘Cross Country’ range, which is the American firm’s take on ‘bagger’ (pannier-equipped) or Road King-style tourers, has just been put through their paces by Roland Brown in Scotland, here’s what he has to say: “The range...
Video: Ron Haslam on the bikes of WSB
Ron Haslam talks about the bikes of WSB and how he thinks they'll fair at this weeekend's Silverstone round. Free glossy 32-page Silverstone WSB guide in this week's MCN To book tickets to the Silverstone WSB, visit www.silverstone.co.uk or call...
2010 New Harley-Davidsons: CVO Electra Glide Classic
New Harleys for 2011 include four new CVO (Custom Vehicle Operations) bikes including a Road Glide Ultra, Street Glide, Ultra Classic Electra Glide and Softail Convertible. All Softail models except the Cross Bones are now available with ABS. Touring models...
Our Grandson William with his Grandad on his Fireblade.
Maxine meets James Toseland.
New SuperLow heads 2011 Harley updates
Harley-Davidson has introduced the new Sportster SuperLow along with four new CVO models, its bigger V-twin motor for the Touring models and ABS for the Softail. The SuperLow XL883L has a seat height of just 648mm and footrests positioned to...
What happens when you crash a Ducati Multistrada
This is the result of a crash on our long-term test Ducati Multistrada 1200 by MCN’s John Westlake. The bike, being run on the fleet by MCN editor Marc Potter, is likely to be written-off following the incident. The insurance company’s report...
Staff bikes: XR1200X - How to fit Remus pipes and Powercone silencer
Before you start, the soft finish of the engine paint marks easily so remove watches, rings etc. When you reach the point of removing/replacing the header pipes use rags/bubble wrap to protect engine cases. Removing the stock pipes1. Unclip and...
I have owned a 1966 Norton N15cs Hybrid for the last 26 years. It started out as a beat bike setting in the back yard of a friend of my brother. My brother wanted me to buy it and I didn't...
Surf the Silverstone WSB crowd with new iPhone app
A new free iPhone launching this Friday allows race fans to connect with each other at home and in the crowd as the action unfolds. Released in time for WSB Silverstone Crowdsurfer connects Twitter users to share the action on...
Ducati 999 hits 134mph on the beach!
This Ducati 999-based beach racer has hit 134mph in the hands of its creator Steve Haldane. Find a Ducati 999 for sale Kevin Kinghan, from the NZ Bike Rider magazine, rode it to 124mph at the same test. He delivered...
BMW S1000RR – Thrills, oil spills and super heroes
Last weekend’s Brands Hatch round of the MRO Stocksport Championship was an eventful one. I actually arrived there last Thursday to do Level Three of the brilliant California Superbike School on my Z1000, which really helped with my riding over...
Video: Leon Haslam talks Silverstone WSB
MCN speaks to Leon Haslam ahead of this weekend's Silverstone WSB clash. Watch the video for his thoughts on the upcoming action. To book tickets to the Silverstone WSB, visit www.silverstone.co.uk or call 0844 3728 260. Get your free 32-page glossy Silverstone WSB...
Britain's Got Biking Talent competition entries flood in!
Britain’s Got Biking Talent with Carole Nash insurance is underway! Since the competition opened last week we’ve had a vast array of entries covering all makes and models, ranging from lightly modified Bandits to fully restored classics. All of which...
Video: Return of the Cafe Racer
The arrival of Norton’s new version of its 961 Commando, coinciding with the emergence of the likes of Royal Enfield’s Clubman and a raft of specials based on Triumph’s Thruxton, has helped create a whole new cult of the Café Racer....
I keep reading articles about the new "off-road" test and how dangerous it is. I learned to ride a motorbike last year on the fast track route hoping to pass my test within a week. At test number one I...
Here is my 16 month old grandson at his first bike meeting. How lucky was he to have his photo taken with Chris Walker?!
Bikes on TV: July 28 - August 3
KEY TO CHANNELS: DRT - Discovery Real Time SHED – Discovery Shed DSC - Discovery Channel DHD - Discovery Channel HD EXS - Extreme Sports Channel EUR1 (2, HD) - Eurosport 1 (2, HD) MOT - Motors TV SS1 (2, 3 or X) - Sky Sports...
Sinnis Trackstar 125 - full review
The Sinnis Trackstar 125 has been ridden and rated by MCN - you can read the full web review in the bike reviews section. Read the Sinnis Trackstar review "The Trackstar is a cheap, trendy...
Video: Sinnis Trackstar 125 review
The Sinnis Trackstar is the latest 125cc, learner-friendly model from the Brighton-based manufacturer. Can they wrestle novices away from the likes of Honda and Suzuki? Find a 125cc motorcycle for sale Watch the video for our first look at the...
New MCN July 28: Norton Cafe Racer first test
In this week's issue of MCN, on sale July 28, the new Norton Cafe Racer takes on a new breed of cafe racers in a trip to the coast. In this week's issue we have a free 32-page glossy guide to...
Free glossy 32-page Silverstone WSB guide in this week's MCN
Get your free glossy Silverstone WSB guide with this week's issue of MCN, on sale Wednesday 28 July 2010. Video: James Toseland on Silverstone WSB The 32-page preview guide celebrates what promises to be a stunning weekend of action. British...
Video: James Toseland on Silverstone
MCN caught up with James Toseland at Silverstone ahead of this weekend's WSB clash for a helicopter-eye view of the track, a few laps with the WSB star and his thoughts on riding Silverstone. To book tickets to the Silverstone...
The end of speed cameras starts this week – with the first 79 set to be turned off on Sunday. Oxfordshire is axing all its cameras after 40% road safety budget cuts from central government. Devon and Cornwall is heading...
Video: Cock O The North, Oliver's Mount
MCN reader Richard Andrews has put together this great short documentary on the racing at Scarborough. TT legend Ryan Farquhar and fans talk about what is so special about road racing. It's 10 minutes long so grab a cup of tea...
Top 10 motorcycle insurance bargains
Motorcycle insurance costs are an important consideration for any bike buyer. That's why over the past few months MCN has been highlighting some of the best cheap-to-insure motorcycles out there. Get a motorcycle insurance quote now We've compared insurance groups on key...
The Derbi GPR125 has been ridden and rated by MCN - you can read the full web review in the bike reviews section. Read the Derbi GPR125 review "Back-to-back with other four-stroke 125s the GPR125 is right...
Trying Stoner's 2007 bike for size
Ian Barker on Casey Stoner's 2007 MotoGP bike.
It's between Stoner and Peter for next year's Repsol contract!
Win free tickets to the Silverstone WSB with AXO
Italian apparel brand AXO in collaboration with MCN and FIM are giving you a chance to win free tickets to the Silverstone WSB round, 30 July - 1 August 2010. Click here to enter the competition These are not just tickets however!...
Best of bikemart: Modern classics up for grabs this week
We've been browsing MCN bikes for sale every day to bring you some of our top picks from over 10,000 motorcycles for sale. Read more modern classics news and features Here's just a few of the fantastic modern classic machines available this week: ...
12 cities. 10 countries. Six days. That was the punishing schedule One World Studios’ film makers Zack Coffman and Scott DiLalla set themselves to promote their two defining motorcycle movies Choppertown and Brittown across Europe. The six-week trek turned into...
Staff bikes: BMW R1200RT - racking up the mileage
Daily use of the BMW R1200RT has seen the mileage cresting 8000 with familiarity allowing me to love the bike and the way it can apparently do almost anything. Fidn a BMW R1200RT for sale People look at the RT...
The new Harley-Davidson 48 is supposed to help the American firm attract a new younger fashion-conscious audience. Find a Harley-Davidson for sale The 48 is basically a stripped-back Sportster 1200, with a wide 150-section front tyre. The speedo is mounted...
How does Valentino Rossi keep up with the news?
How does Valentino Rossi keep up to date with all the hot news in the MotoGP paddock? He reads MCN of course. The nine-times world champion was snapped getting his weekly fix of MCN at Laguna Seca in California yesterday...
My Max MPH classic Honda race rep
Just a quick update on my road going classic Honda CB550 race rep. First time out was at the Thundersprint, a brilliant day. We worked on getting the bike running right up to Saturday evening, so didnt know if we...
Speed camera staff face redundancy
Speed camera staff are facing redundancy due to Government road safety funding cuts. Camera bosses in Devon and Cornwall are making half their staff redundant after budgets cuts of 26%. The move means camera activity and fine numbers will reduce....
Factory-sponsored Ducati and Moto Guzzi concepts
Three students from the European Design Institute of Turin have worked in partnership with Ducati and Moto Guzzi to create these concepts. Simon Buonpensiere and Daniele Mazzon's design is based on the Ducati Hypermotard and Emmanuel Baptism's the Moto Guzzi...
Ducati has released this brief promo video of their new 848 Evo, expected to receive its official in-the-metal launch at Laguna Seca this weekend. The question you’ll find yourself asking is does the 140bhp Evo go better than it look...
New Husqvarna TE250, TC250 and TE310 for 2011
Swedish firm Husqvarna has launched new versions of its TE250, TE310 and TC250 models. The three bikes receive new reinforced frames, new hubs, new exhaust pipes with heat protectors, waterproof spark plug covers, and crank-case with steel frame sockets. Each...
64.5kg Ossa TR280i is world's lightest trial bike
Reborn Spanish brand Ossa has come back with a bang – a sleek-looking new trials machine it says is the lightest in the world. The 64.5kg bike is the first new Ossa in 25 years and features a 272cc two-stroke...
Kawasaki announce ER-6f foot guard and cowling bracket recall
Kawasaki is recalling around 1000 ER6-f models to replace the footguard and mounting bracket after it found in certain conditions that fouling can stop the rear brake being used effectively. A Kawasaki statement reads: “Kawasaki has become aware that on...
Five simple tips to reduce your motorcycle insurance
Are you paying too much for your motorcycle insurance? MCN has dug out five simple ways you can reduce your premium. Voluntary excessIncreasing the excess on your policy can dramatically reduce your premium. The downside is that in the event...
Win a £2500 biking holiday - just nine days left to enter!
MCN has joined forces with bike insurance broker Devitt to uncover the UK’s best biking destinations. We want to build a map of the UK’s top bike spots: the twistiest roads, friendliest dealers, best value bed and breakfasts, and the...
Video: Ducati Hypermotard 796 review
Ducati’s entry-level 803cc Hypermotard 796 is a great little bike. It’s lighter and lower than the Hypermotard 1100, but just as fast from A to B in the real world. Read the full Hypermotard 796 review Find a Hypermotard 796 for...
Honda has announced the release of an updated CRF450R, as part of their 2011 off-road lineup. Find an off road bike for sale The new model is intended to comply with the recent European FIM noise regulation, and the decibel...
Honda CRF250R gets more mid-range
Honda has announced the release of an updated CRF250R, as part of their 2011 off-road lineup. Find an off road bike for sale The new model is intended to comply with the recent European FIM noise regulation, and the decibel...
Britain's Got Biking Talent competition with Carole Nash starts today
The search for the UK’s best bike starts here! The fourth annual Britain’s Got Biking Talent competition kicks off today and here’s how you can be in with a chance of winning fame, glory and a VIP trip to a...
Man behind most aggressive and unsafe bike ad ever hails industry ban on aggressive, unsafe bike ads
The motorcycle industry in Europe has imposed a voluntary ban on adverts portaying ‘Aggressive riding styles, and any depiction of unsafe behaviour on public roads’. ACEM, the manufacturers’ representative body, made the move in response to the European Commission’s Road...
BMW S1000RR at Brands Hatch MRO Stocksport
It’s been six long weeks since my last race with my new team in the MRO Stocksport championship. I can’t wait to blow out the cobwebs again this weekend at Brands in the MRO Stocksport championship. My Team Vari-Trac BMW...
Video: Exclusive Guy Martin interview
In this week's MCN Guy Martin speaks on the moment his Dad thought he was dead, what went through his own head as he slid towards a wall at 170mph and why he's building a bike with 120bhp more than...
Honda Pan European - Comfy enough for a nap!
My wee grandson having a quick nap on my Honda Pan European. Then wondering who woke him up!
Commuter Survival Guide for Motorcyclists
We put the new Yamaha XJ6 Diversion through its paces as Glenn Julian takes the journey to work in the 'Commuter Survival Guide for Motorcyclists'. Due for release in August, the main program demonstrates how observation, planning and positioning skills...
Hull and back via Lands End and John O'Groats
Sharon Harrington is planning to do a sponsored trike/bike ride from Hull and back via Lands End and John O'Groats in seven days. The proceeds will be split between two charities, Whizz Kidz and the NABD. If you can make it...
Send us your Ride to Work Day pics!
It’s Ride to Work day tomorrow! Planning to ride your bike to work when it would usually be slumbering in the garage waiting for the weekend? MCN wants to celebrate Ride to Work Day (this Wednesday) by printing your pictorial...
Meet Max Biaggi at Silverstone!
Aprilia is running a competition to meet Max Biaggi, Leon Camier and be a VIP guest of the factory team at Silverstone's WSB round. Click here to enter the competition All you have to do to win? Be one of...
New MCN July 21: Super Rossi returns to MotoGP
In this week's issue of MCN, on sale July 21, we have pictures of Triumph's 675cc road-going adventure bike testing in Europe! We reflect on Rossi's amazing comeback from a broken leg, with insight from The Doctor himself and Casey Stoner....
Ducati 848 replaced with 140bhp EVO
Ducati has replaced its 848 middleweight with the new 848 EVO – at 140bhp the most powerful supersport bike it has ever produced. The power hike comes from an overhauled engine and it's contained by better brakes and a steering...
MCN's history of Ducati spy shots
The Project 0803 spy shots are far from the first new Ducatis we have been successful in capturing before they are finished and ready for sale. MCN prides itself on getting spy shots of new bikes first and the huge wheelie...
Here's my idea for a new 1000cc naked from Yamaha, which would sit between the muscular V-Max and the sportier FZ1.
Cumbria Police hunt £15K Harley
Police in Cumbria are investigating the theft of a vintage 1949 Harley-Davidson Model U valued at £15,000. The blue bike, similar to the one above, was stolen during the Barbon Hill Climb, at Barbon Low Fells, Hoggs Hill, Barbon near Sedbergh...
Video: longer teaser for the 2011 Triumph Adventure
Triumph has extended the teaser of its next Adventure model. Used Triumph motorcycles for sale Nothing new is revealed in the video, nonetheless you can enjoy the sound of the future middleweight GS rival.
One-armed triker heads charity rideout
A one-armed triker is asking bikers to join him on his final training ride before crossing the length of the UK in August. The ride out starts at Millenium Motorcycles, St.Helen’s at 9am on 25 July and runs down to...
Bid to save free bike parking fails
A bid to reinstate free roadside motorcycle parking in London has been defeated in a court ruling which campaigners say threatens free bike parking everywhere. The High Court rejected claims by campaigners that Westminster Council’s £1-a-day charge was introduced only...
I took my Suzuki Bandit in for a puncture repair at my local National Tyres one Friday afternoon. They said it needed a new tyre so I left the bike with them. I picked the bike up about 4pm and take it easy...
Steve Parrish getting the beers in for the Weaversham Boys at the 2010 Isle of Man TT.
Ian Hutchinson T-shirt tribute
My tribute to Ian Hutchinson and his historic 2010 TT!
Ducati dealer leaks Project 0803 muscle bike sketch to customer
A Ducati dealer in the US has leaked a sketch of the firm’s forthcoming muscle bike, the details and working title of which were revealed in this Wednesday’s MCN. The sketch appears to confirm the 1198cc motor is that of...
Biker café threatens to ban bikes
The owner of a café which used to be a popular biker meeting place has threatened to ban motorcyclists. John Simpson, owner of Lord Stones Café in the Cleveland Hills, North Yorkshire, has already changed his opening hours to halt...
Best of bikemart: Modern classics up for grabs this week
We've been browsing MCN bikes for sale every day to bring you some of our top picks from over 10,000 motorcycles for sale. Read more modern classics news and features Here's just a few of the fantastic modern classic...
Interview: McWilliams on racing an XR1200
MCN catches up with former MotoGP man Jeremy McWilliams as he leads the Henderson Harley Davidson XR1200 Trophy.... Find a Harley-Davidson XR1200 for sale How is the racing and the season going so far?To be honest it’s going a lot...
Honda is offering free luggage on selected adventure and touring models bought before the end of the offer on September 30. Anyone who buys either a Honda XL1000V Varadero (standard or ABS) or the XL700VA Transalp will receive a free...
I’m a 20 stone newbie biker that has decided to ride an underpowered bike to raise money for charity. I’ve been stirred into action because at 38 years old, my wife was diagnosed with pre-cancerous cells in her milk ducts...
Honda Unveils Finance And Insurance Offers
Honda has new finance, insurance and Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) offers across much of the range from scooters to superbikes for summer. The offers run until September 30 and include 0% finance and PCP schemes. Bikes included are the CBR600RR...
The world’s first superbike – the Honda CB750 – has received the makeover it deserved courtesy of Japanese tuning firm House Rockers. Find a Honda CB750 for sale The engine is fitted with bigger Wiseco pistons, taking it to 836cc,...
Video: Brammo Empulse - 100mph electric bike
Brammo have revealed their new Empulse electric motorcycle, which they claim is capable of 100mph and can go over 100 miles on a single charge. Video: Mavizen electric sportsbike first ride Three versions of the Empulse are planned - the...
Nine riders off on a fantastic trip to Germany to the great Nurburgring circuit for four days. Picture attached shows eight of us on the circuit after the evening session.
Ducati muscle bike up close - new spy shots!
Ducati’s new 1200cc V-twin muscle bike has been staked out by MCN just a week after amateur spy shots captured the bike testing on the road. New Ducati Mega-Monster spotted testing on the road These new images give the best...
The new Kawasaki Ninja 400 will probably never make it to the UK, but thankfully there are a lot of other options out there if you like the idea of a lightweight low-height 400cc bike. Find a 400 for sale Thanks...
'Pay as you go' tracktime at the Silverstone WSB
Focused Events are offering a ‘pay as you go’ system for tracktime, pillion rides or tuition at the Silverstone WSB round, July 31st - August 1st. In addition to trackside hospitality for trackdayers, riders can do ‘taster’ rides during the weekend...
Surely it won't rain at Knockhill
Last Friday (9th) I was on a Niall Mackenzie Superbike Track Day at Knockhill given to me for my 40th in a few days time. Although the weather forecast earlier in the week was not looking good I decided after...
MCN survived the Pamplona Bull Run
Me in Pamplona, catching up on the news in the arena after the bull run!
MCNcompare.com boasts biggest choice
MCN's insurance website MCNcompare.com now has more bike insurance brandsthan any other comparison site in the UK. 33 of the UK¹s top insurance companies are listed on MCNcompare.com and each quote enquiry returns an impressive average of 31 quotes*. With...
Show revs up to find North Wales biker babe
The search is underway to find the Llangollen Motorbike Show’s 2010 biker babe. The show, launched in 2008, had its first biker babe competition last year, and is hoping to find someone to front the show again this year. David...
‘One-in-five bikers unlicensed’ claim rubbished
A report claiming motorcyclists are ignorant of licence laws has been rubbished – for showing ignorance of licence laws. The survey, for an insurance company, claimed motorcyclists didn’t understand license restrictions and one in five weren’t qualified for the bike...
Video: The Yamaha Super Tenere trick that could save your bacon
Yamaha’s new 1200cc Super Tenere is a superb all-rounder, but in common with other bikes with ABS it can be a liability off-road for one simple reason... Read the Yamaha Super Tenere review ABS can prevent your bike coming to...
New Kawasaki ZX-10R to land in Europe late August
Kawasaki’s sharper new ZX-10R will touch down in Europe for the first time in late August, with your first chance to see it being at the Nurburgring WSB round on 5 September, MCN believes. The presentation will be part of...
Learners could be allowed to speed
Learners could be allowed to speed while taking their riding test as part of a shake-up of the exam. They would be given special dispensation to break the 30mph speed limit while attempting manoeuvres including one in which they must...
