Articles by Mike Ryan

Honda's new flagship sportsbike, the highly anticipated 2008 CBR1000RR Fireblade is now on sale. The latest model is a huge departure from previous models in the best possible way with distinctly unique looks, stronger performance and responsive control. The 2008 Fireblade features performance enhancing developments such as a new underslung exhaust system and "Honda Assist Slipper Clutch" designed to allow for aggressive downshifts that translate into smoother and quicker cornering control. It is slimmer and more compact than its predecessor.

Honda Australia has recorded the number one spot for motorcycle sales results for the first six months of 2008, according to official figures released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI). Six of the ten top selling motorcycles overall are Hondas including the CT110P, CRF250R and CRF450R motocross bikes, enduro machine CRF450X, championship winning CBR1000RR Fireblade and the CRF50F mini bike.

Honda held a ceremony, July 21, 2008, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Super Cub sales which began in August 1958. The ceremony was held at Honda's Kumamoto Factory where the Super Cub is still produced today. "The reason we have been able to continue producing and selling Super Cub for 50 years is because of our customers who enjoy using Super Cub every day," said TakeoFukui, president & CEO of Honda Motor Co, Ltd.

Honda's latest XR400 Motard has hit the streets in a new two tone white colour scheme, boasting flare graphics and gold rims that set it apart from all others in the class. The XR400M is powered by a 400cc air-cooled 4-stroke single cylinder engine that offers superior intake and exhaust performance as well as high combustion efficiency that provides powerful mid-range torque.

Honda's all new 'king of the hill' has arrived - Honda's new TRX700XX has arrived and is set to send the ATV sport competition into a tail spin. The TRX700XX's new 686cc SOHC liquid-cooled fuel-injected, four-valve, four-stroke engine generates the highest peak output in its class. Wrapped in an impressive chassis with double wishbone Independent Rear Suspension (IRS), this unique four wheeler also features aggressive new sports styling.

The flagship Honda Cruiser is the VTX1800, which pays homage to the custom chopper. The 2008 model features a low-slung, 2-into-1 exhaust, performance influenced fender design, cast aluminium wheels and dragster style seating.

Honda's latest release of the XL700V Transalp has been reworked to appeal more than ever to those customers looking for a versatile motorcycle with all round capabilities. The '08 version available from dealers nationally now offers revised looks, as well as a lighter more powerful new 680cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected 8-valve V-twin engine that delivers smooth, strong performance.

The JUST BIKES-sponsored CDR Rockstar Yamaha team wrapped up the ROCKSTAR MX Nationals in style in the series' final round at Coolum, QLD on August 3rd. Jay Marmont secured the championship plate in the Pro Open class, while consistently good performances from team mate, Cheyne Boyd, saw him finish third overall in the championship, just behind Suzuki's Daryl Hurley.

Harley-Davidson has completed its purchase of the privately held Italian motor-cycle maker MV Agusta Group. The Company has acquired 100 percent of MV Agusta Group shares for approximately 70 million euros ($108 million), which includes existing bank debt for approximately 45 million euros ($69 million).

Yamaha's legendary flagship muscle bike VMAX is back... and it means business. The original V4 roadster achieved cult status soon after it was launched in 1985. And now following a serious workout, the beast is not just improved... but totally reborn.

If you've ever called in to California Image, you'll no doubt be familiar with the larger than life figure that is Shane Delaforce.

Yamaha has released their 2008 four-stroke motorcross YZ250F & YZ540Fs - both with significant improvements. YZ450F For 2008 the YZ450Fs engine gets a number of improvements including reshaped intake ports and cam profiles, reduced piston tolerance and modified transmission backlash and shorty muffler. And the YZ450F's lightweight aluminium chassis runs with a shorter headpipe, lighter forks, compact new front caliper, and modified rear suspension - which makes the new bike accelerate better, turn quicker and feel lighter, for an even more dominant package.