50th anniversary of the Triumph Bonneville

Did you know its the 50th anniversary of the original Triumph Bonneville and the 21st anniversary of the Hyde Harrier. Well Triumph specialist Norman Hyde and Harris Performance do. In a collaboration they have produced the Hyde Harrier Jubilee which was launched this week at the Carole Nash International Motorcycle and Scooter Show.

Now powered by a modern Triumph 865cc engine, this bike is a tribute to the original Hyde Harrier. The conversion is apparently available as a base kitwith additional components which can be added kit. More details available on www.inter-bike.co.uk.

Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk

Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

134mpg on a Honda!

Honda have just launched their new 125cc motorcycle to eventually replace the indomitable CG125 which I understand is in its last year of production. The new Honda CBF125 will be on sale in UK Honda dealerships next week.

The new Honda CBF125 is supposed to be staying true to the founder of Honda, Soichiro Honda's original Honda motorcycle principles of being affordable, reliable, safe, good quality and a joy to own and use.

However what is the most amazing thing about this new 125 I am sure for many will be the outstanding fuel economy Honda are claiming, particularly now petrol is such an expensive commodity.

Honda are claiming an amazing 134mpg (or 29.6miles / 47.4km per litre*). That is a staggering 370miles (600km) from one 13 litre tank of petrol.

Now rightly Honda qualify this claim by saying "These figures were obtained during test conditions and may not be replicated in everyday use by every rider and riding situation". However I am sure that well the other side of a 100mpg would be achievable.

Fantastic a leading motorcycle manufacturer is offering a bike with outstanding fuel economy and prepared to speak up about out! Now isn't that a breath of fresh air, well not totally but the new bike's emissions are well below the EURO-3 standard.

Well done Honda for offering something the market really needs, good value, cleaner and economic two wheeled transport. The price I understand will be £1795 on the road, not bad!

Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk

Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

Flip-front helmet ratings published

I am sure like me you've been waiting for the latests batch of helmet test results from SHARP, the Department for Transports Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Programme.

They have now tested 20 leading flip-front helmets and I've detailed the results below:-


Make
Model
Rating

AGV
Longway
4

Airoh
Matisse RS
2

BMW
System 5
5

Caberg
Trip
5

Justissimo GT
4

Duchinni
D601
1

G-MAC
Concept
3

Grex
RF2
4

KBC
FFR
1

Lazer
Granville
4

Revolution
4

Nolan
N103
4

N102
4

ROOF
Boxer
4

Schuberth
C2
4

Shark
Openline
3

Evoline
4

Shoei
Multitech
3

Viper
RS V121
3

RS RS101
4






2. All final results of SHARP testing can be found at: http://www.direct.gov.uk/sharp.

3. The SHARP tests and assessments are valid for all types of helmet and further results will be released on a rolling basis. Full face helmets represent the largest part of the market (approx. 80%), but flip front style helmets are gaining in popularity and therefore, SHARP has assessed these before completing the remaining full face helmets. Open face helmets will be considered later.

Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk

Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

The Carole Nash International Motorcycle and Scooter Show 2008 launched

Charley Boorman and the Hairy Bikers


Ruben Xaus unveils the BMW S1000 RR Superbike

The Carole Nash International Motorcycle and Scooter Show launched yesterday at the Birmingham NEC and a host of stars from the world of motorcycling and racing were there including Ruben Xaus at the launch of the BMW Superbike contender the BMW S1000 RR. Plus amongst others, BMW ambassador Charley Boorman and those biking chefs the Hairy Bikers, Si King and Dave Myers.

Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk

Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

More great motorcycle book and DVD reviews

Motorcycle journalist Ian Kerr has been burning the midnight oil and we've just published 3 great motorcycle book reviews and one MotoGP DVD review on www.inter-bike.co.uk that Ian has written.
Why not take a look now, they're accessible on the Home Page of the www.inter-bike.co.uk

The books Ian has reviewed are:-

Off-Road Giants by Andrew Westlake


The Fine Art of the Motorcycle Engine by Daniel Pearce


Scooter Lifestyle by Ian 'Iggy' Grainer


The DVD Ian has reviewed is Moto GP Riding Secrets

Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk

Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

Harley-Davidson XR1200 launched in America

The Harley-Davidson XR1200 in action


The Harley-Davidson XR1200


Although we had the European launch of the new Harley-Davidson XR1200 here in the UK and Europe back last April, it's not until now its been released in its home country the United States of America.

Born out of the legendary flat-track racer the XR750 the new XR1200 was received input in its design from flat-track racing legends Scot Parker and Rich King, together with European GP racing champion Adrien Morillas.

The XR750 was the most dominant American dirt track racing motorcycle of all-time, winning the Number One plate in 26 AMA flat track seasons!! In tribute to the XR750, there is a pre-sale of only 750 XR1200 models from 1 December to 12 December in the US.

More details of the XR1200 can found on www.inter-bike.co.uk.

Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk

Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

Have your say on the proposed modular motorcycling test

The Driving Standards Agency have put out proposals to enhance the way motorcyclists are tested.

They are proposing a two stage modular test, to split the current single-event motorcycling test into two parts:-

Module 1 would contain the specified manoeuvres element of the test including exercises designed to assess the rider's ability to control their machine safely, including avoidance and emergency stop exercises carried out at a minimum speed of 50 kph.

Module 2 would include an eyesight test and up to 35 minutes of in-traffic riding assessing the rider's ability to safely interact with other road users.

The overall price for the test will apparently remain unchanged, the price will be split across both modules - so candidates only have to pay for each section of the test as they take it.

You can have your say online and read the consultation paper which is at http://www.dsa.gov.uk/Category.asp?cat=594, or write to The Driving Standards Agency, The Axis Building, 112 Upper Parliament Street, Nottingham, NG1 6LP.

Or for more information you can call 0115 936 6092.

So if you want your voice to be heard on this critical motorcycling issue get your comments in to the DSA!!

Oh, anyone wishing to comment on the proposals must do so by 9 January 2009.

Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk

Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

Bennetts reveal top biker distractions!

Girls Aloud for Kit Kat Senses


Eva Longoria for Magnum ice-cream
31%


Louise Redknapp modeling for Triumph Bras
13%


Myleene Klass in a yellow and white bikini for M&S


Eva Longoria modeling for L'Oreal shampoo

Bennetts leading motorcycle insurance providers have revealed the results of a survey to discover what last year was the biggest distraction on the road for bikers. The results reveal that ads for the girls group Girls Aloud were the biggest distraction for bikers last year. With apparently 35% of bikers admitting to taking their eyes off the road to look at the Girls Aloud billboards.

The most distracting billboard adverts where:-

Girls Aloud for Kit Kat Senses
35%

Eva Longoria for Magnum ice-cream
31%

Louise Redknapp modeling for Triumph Bras
13%

Myleene Klass in a yellow and white bikini for M&S
10%

Eva Longoria modeling for L'Oreal shampoo
3%


* Based on brand tracking research in April 2008

Now I know this is a motorcycling blog, but I have published the top five billboard ads above, so that you can look at them now, rather than be tempted to try and look at them whilst out riding your motorbike. Your eyes should be on the road of course!!!!

Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk

Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

Win a BMW K 1200 R

The BMW K1200 R

Visitors to the Carole Nash International Motorcycle and Scooter Show which runs from 28 November – 7 December at the NEC, Birmingham have chance to win a new BMW K1200 R motorcycle (kindly donated by BMW Motorrad UK) by buying National Draw tickets at the show in support of BEN. The winner will be announced on the last day of the show, 7th December, on the MCN stage.

BEN is the Automotive Industry Charity, the only occupational charity for those who work or have worked in the automotive and related industries. Founded in 1905, the Charity provides practical help, support, advice and friendship to more than 15,000 men and women and their families every year. In addition BEN provides a home to over 350 individuals who reside in one of its four residential centres in the UK and offers day care facilities at its centre in Coventry.
Website: www.ben.org.uk

Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk

Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

Nation's Best Bikes to be revealed at NEC Bike Show

Britain’s best custom bikes, as voted for by thousands of UK motorcyclists, will be revealed on Thursday (November 27th) as the Britain’s Got Biking Talent climaxes at The Carole Nash International Motorcycle and Scooter Show.

Secrecy has surrounded the top 12 bikes and the owners who have had a professional photo-shoot by top bike photographer Adam Duckworth, now they’re contenders for the £1,000 top prize.

All 12 bikes will feature in the Carole Nash 2009 calendar, 120,000 copies of which will be distributed free at The Carole Nash International Motorcycle Show and other biking events.

Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk

Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

Guintoli to be at NEC Bike Show

Sylvain Guintoli

Crescent Suzuki have confirmed that there new British Superbike star Sylvain Guintoli will be introduced at the forthcoming International Motorcycle Show in Birmingham at a press conference on Thursday 27th November at 10.30 am

In addition Sylvain will in the Suzuki stand in Hall One on that day between 2.00pm and 4.00pm to sign autographs and meet fans.

Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk

Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

Bike News Video

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Another Happy H-D Couple

67 Brochure Photo

The Art of the Engine #2

Ya got'ta click on this to appreciate it.
I may have to paint it one day.

Got Ham?

Not exactly artistry here. Nobody left these on.
What was H-D thinking?

Friday's Off Topic Art

In another life I did Space Art

Here's one I did in 1983-84? when I was an illustrator for Hughes Aircraft Co. I did a ton of satellite concept art, some Space Shuttle mission art, and a bunch of other crap.

Coming soon... another blog featuring all subjects of my artwork.

Host of stars at the NEC BIke Show

Scott Redding Youngest Ever GP Winner

The Carole Nash International Motorcycle and Scooter Show starts next Friday and their are a host of stars from the world of motorcycling who are going to be there over the various days of the show.

The current list is:-

Friday 28th November
Scott Redding
Jonathan Rea
James Whitham
Niall Mackenzie
Charley Boorman
John Reynolds
James Ellison
Leon Camier
Steve Parrish
Craig Jones - Stunt Rider (Speedycom Stand 1B92)
Keith Amor (Speedycom Stand 1B92)

Saturday 29th November
James Whitham
Niall Mackenzie
Charley Boorman
John Reynolds
Steve Parrish
Glen Richards
Troy Corser
Leon Haslam
Ron Haslam (Signing his Book on the Bikers World Stand @ Midday)
Ryan Farquhar (Speedycom Stand 1B92)

Sunday 30th November
James Toseland + Crash (12.00 & 2.30pm on Yamaha Stand)
Scott Redding
Bradley Smith
Danny Webb
Matt Hoyle
Marco Melandri
James Whitham
Niall Mackenzie
John Reynolds
Steve Parrish
Carl Rennie (Speedycom Stand 1B92)

Monday 1st December
James Whitham
Niall Mackenzie
Cal Crutchlow
John Reynolds
Steve Parrish

Tuesday 2nd December
James Whitham
Niall Mackenzie
John Reynolds
Steve Parrish
Chris Walker

Wednesday 3rd December
James Toseland (12.00 & 3.30pm on Yamaha stand 1E50)
James Whitham
Niall Mackenzie
John Reynolds
Steve Parrish

Thursday 4th December
James Toseland (12.00 & 3.30pm on Yamaha stand 1E50)
James Whitham
Niall Mackenzie
John Reynolds
Steve Parrish
james McBride (Speedycom Stand 1B92)

Friday 5th December
James Whitham
Niall Mackenzie
John Reynolds
Steve Parrish

Saturday 6th December
Scott Redding
James Toseland and Crash (12.00 & 3.00pm on Yamaha stand 1E50)
John McGuiness
Steve Plater
Carl Fogarty
Randy Mamola
Guy Martin
Bruce Ansty
Cameron Donald
Comor Cummins
Garry Johnson
Ron Haslam
Milky Quale / Johnny Barton
James Whitham
Niall Mackenzie
John Reynolds
Steve Parrish

Sunday 7th December
James Toseland and Crash (11.30am & 2.00pm on Yamaha stand 1E50)
Carl Fogarty
James Whitham
Niall Mackenzie
Marco Melandri
John Reynolds
Steve Parrish

However this list is being constantly added to and you can keep uptodate with who will be attending the show on what days at http://www.motorcycleshow.co.uk/mci2008/celebrities.html

Ride safe.

Jon Booth
Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk

Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/
Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

2009 Suzuki range to be at the NEC Bike Show

The new 2009 Suzuki GSX-R1000

Suzuki will be showing off thier 2009 range at the Carole Nash International Motorcycle and Scooter Show at the NEC, which starts next week. These models include the 2009 Suzuki GSX-R1000, the new Suzuki Gladius 650 and the revamped Suzuki Bandit 650.

Ride safe.

Jon Booth

Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk
Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/

Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/

One of my Favorites

Other artists might relate to the back story of this art.

I did this art several years ago. It's one of those special works where everything just comes together naturally. It started with an idea that had been kicking around my noggin for sometime. Later, during a break of selling prints at a Mooneyes Xmas show, I did a rough sketch of the car on a torn scrap of paper. Then, one day much later, I came across the ragged sketch. Instead of redrawing it, I just cut it out, mounted it, and went at it.

It's not the tightest or refined piece but, it's one of my favorites. It seems that when I take a care free off the cuff approach to a project, it turns out best.


The KnuckleReaper was harder to get right

Later, I did the KnuckleReaper art to complement it and although I'm very happy how it turned out, the planning and painting of it didn't have that same creative flow.

If anybody is interested, I have a few small prints of both works. The MC art copy and the large C. Kallas signature are not on the prints.

Celebrity Biker photos of the Week

Mister Cool? Many think so

To read the above article go to:
http://www.angelfire.com/biz/snwvlly/bikes/steve.htm

Steve McQueen might be the most famous celebrity motorcycle enthusiast of them all but, to a new generation and as time goes by, Jay Leno may take his place. Steve owned all makes and types of bikes but, his preference seem to lean towards big British twins.

Tearing up on the Rickman. Hey Steve, where's your safety equipment?


Nice bike

Testing the McQueen built Rickman-Metisse-Triumph


Definitely not British. Is this Steve and his favorite bike?

Of all his bikes, the above chopped Indian has been reported as his favorite ride because he could ride it incognito. Somewhere I have a photo of him aboard a chopped Indian sport'in long hair and a beard.

Definitely not Steve. The Indian chop today at the National Motorcycle Museum

Years ago, I saw a (light green?), grubby bobbed/chopped McQueen Indian in the West Coast Choppers show room. Was it the claimed favorite or, the bike above? Later, I heard that Jesse planned on restoring it. Boy would that be a mistake.

UNDANGAN DARI KZ EVOLUTION MC

Dear Brother Binter Merzy di Indonesia,

ini ada Undangan dari KZ evolution MC Cirebon mereka ngundang para enthusiast Binter Merzy seluruh Indonesia bisa gabung semua pada acara tersebut.

Acara ini akan dilaksanakan pada tanggal tanggal 6-7 Desember 2008 di area pantai Tirtamaya Indramayu. Indonesia

Ok brother Binter Merzy Semua di tunggu di acara tersebut

Keep On Rolling with your KZ200 Binter Merzy

INFO INI TERUSAN DARI FOKZ200.COM

Two Tandems for Today

You meet the happiest people on a Hog. I've always liked this art.
The Illustrators that did H-D's ads are unsung heros.


Nice cover, great angle. This couple is serious.

SPARTANS!!!

Hey, what'd you expect? I'm of Greek descent.

Hopefully the site's hits are higher than the profile's.

Thanks Folks, Y'all come back now!

Tuesday's Tank

Old Donnie Smith tank.
Simple yet effective, I dig paint like this.

Monday's Art

T-shirt design 2005

Kawasaki launch the KLX250

The new Kawasaki KLX250

Kawasaki have just announced the launch of a new off-road styled 250cc motorcycle, based on the successful KLX300R enduro this fuel injected 250cc motorbike is according to Kawasaki "is ideally suited to new riders as well as commuters who want the style and adaptability of an off-road machine."

Ride safe.

Jon Booth

Email: webmaster@inter-bike.co.uk

Blog: http://inter-bike.blogspot.com/

Swicki: http://motorcycling-swicki.eurekster.com/




Not unsurprisingly its available in Lime Green only!

Pete Millar, Art Hero

Issue #2 December 1963


Photo from the exhibit, Tales from the Strip

Pete Millar is another BIG! hero of mine. He started Car toons for Peterson Publishing and later his own publication, Drag Cartoons. He was the best in his field.

#15 May 1965 One of Pete's most popular covers

I collected Drag Cartoons as a kid and was very influenced by his work. My interest in Choppers was partly fueled by Ed Roth's ads that appeared in them.


Pete collaborated with Ed on projects and put stories about him in Drag Cartoons. In 1964 he even created a comic devoted solely to Ed. Only four issues were produced, but, afterwards he continued to feature Roth in Drag cartoons.

Issue #1

After finding Pete's website, I sent an email to him explaining how much he had influenced me as a kid and artist. He was kind and flattered. Sometime later I found out he had passed away. I now regret not printing out his email (lost on a downed computer), or making the effort to meet him, as he lived very near by.

This last summer I was jazzed to see some of Pete's original art at the exhibit: Tale s from the Strip at the Pasadena Museum of California Art .

For more on Pete's work, go to:
http://www.laffyerasphalt.com/

I'll post more from the exhibit in the future.