Can-Am and the Road Warrior Foundation (RWF), recently came together to host an unforgettable “Adventure Therapy” ride that covered nearly 2,000 miles aboard Can-Am Spyder 3-wheel vehicles. This year marked the 10th Annual Road Warrior Ride, which gives veterans the opportunity to disconnect from their day-to-day life and experience the incredible healing power of riding the open road, all completely free of charge.

Related: 2023 Can-Am Ryker Rally Review | Road Test

The veterans were selected by RWF from a pool of hundreds of applicants, and as is the focus of every RWF adventure, they were all post-9/11 veterans with various injuries, both physical and mental. Something else they all shared: a craving for adventure and a need to inject some excitement in their lives. Riding is a perfect recipe for a group of likeminded strangers with so much in common.

“Can-Am has been the title sponsor of the Road Warrior Foundation since it was established in 2013, proudly helping to enable its mission to provide Adventure Therapy to U.S. Military veterans,” said Martin Ethier, Global Marketing Director, Can-Am. “We firmly believe that the open road is open to all, and through this sponsorship, we are able to bring that to life for a group of incredibly deserving riders.”

Prior to hitting the road, the group gathered in Lake George, NY, where they spent time getting to know each other and received a hero’s welcome from more than 300 Can-Am owners at SpyderQuest, an annual Can-Am owners event in beautiful upstate New York. Several of the riders had only recently acquired their motorcycle license, and most had very little experience riding in a group, so prior to the main event, Can-Am and RWF representatives did some closed-course and classroom training on the fleet of vehicles provided by Can-Am. Then it was time to hit the open road.

“Can-Am 3-wheel vehicles are the only vehicles that allow us to do what we do because it’s so easy to learn to ride,” said Stephen Berger, co-founder of the Road Warrior Foundation and U.S. Air Force veteran. “BRP provides us a fleet of vehicles that we keep all over the country, so for this ride and other smaller ones we have throughout the year, we’re able to get veterans of all skill levels out riding quickly by putting them through the Can-Am Rider Education Program.”

As always, once the wheels were rolling, the excitement was undeniable from all. The veterans experienced amazing views, great roads, and landmarks such as the National Baseball Hall of Fame in NY, the Flight 93 National Memorial in PA, and the National Museum of the USAF in OH. Undoubtedly, though, one of the biggest highlights was a Can-Am off-road experience at Badlands Off-Road Park in Attica, Indiana, where Can-Am dealer, Attica Motorsports, hosted the group while they enjoyed riding Can-Am Maverick, Defender, and Commander off-road vehicles through the park’s 1,400+ acres.

In addition to providing the fleet of vehicles, Can-Am also gave the riders a full suite of riding gear to cover the various climates they covered on their way from New York, through Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Indiana, Illinois, and ultimately concluding at a Can-Am owners’ event called, “Spyders in the Ozarks,” with more than 300 Can-Am riders welcoming them as they rode into Nixa, MO.

About Road Warrior Foundation

The Road Warrior Foundation is an all-volunteer, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that’s run by veterans, for veterans. The organization primarily utilizes powersports as Adventure Therapy to produce a challenging environment that puts deserving veterans back in the driver’s seat. The Foundation’s powersports experiences range from quick day-trips to multi-day rides like this one, as well as off-road days and snowmobiling excursions.

About BRP

BRP Inc. is a global leader in the world of powersports products, propulsion systems and boats built on over 80 years of ingenuity and intensive consumer focus. Through its portfolio of industry-leading and distinctive brands featuring Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, Sea-Doo watercraft and pontoons, Can-Am on and off-road vehicles, Alumacraft and Quintrex boats, Manitou pontoons and Rotax marine propulsion systems as well as Rotax engines for karts and recreational aircraft, BRP unlocks exhilarating adventures and provides access to experiences across different playgrounds. The Company completes its lines of products with a dedicated parts, accessories and apparel portfolio to fully optimize the riding experience. Committed to growing responsibly, BRP is developing electric models for its existing product lines and exploring new low voltage and human assisted product categories. Headquartered in Quebec, Canada, BRP has annual sales of CA$10 billion from over 130 countries and a global workforce of close to 23,000 driven, resourceful people.

The post Can-Am and Road Warrior Foundation Sponsor 10th Annual Road Warrior Ride for Veterans appeared first on Rider Magazine.

The Ultimate Driving Museum of the BMW CCA Foundation in Greer, South Carolina, celebrates the 100th anniversary of BMW Motorrad with an exhibit titled “BMW Motorcycles: A Century of Innovation,” which runs through January 20, 2024. Over 57 rare and historically significant two- and four-wheeled motorcycle-powered vehicles are on display, taking the visitor on a historical tour from the very first 1923 BMW R 32 through the latest 2023 100 Years Edition motorcycles.

Related: 2023 BMW R nineT 100 Years Edition Review | Road Test

The exhibit highlights the world-leading technical innovations, racing victories, world records, and the pure passion that has driven BMW’s motorcycle division to this day.

In December 1922, BMW chief designer Max Friz put the first full-scale BMW motorcycle on the drawing board. At its heart was a 494 cc, 8.5 hp, air-cooled two-cylinder, four-stroke boxer engine. The first BMW motorcycle, the R 32, was unveiled in September 1923 at the German Motor Show in Berlin. Production began that same month in an area of the BMW engine works on the edge of the Munich’s Oberwiesenfeld airfield. Just 56 motorcycles were built that first year.  Those humble beginnings of BMW motorcycle production launched an unprecedented success story that has spanned a century.

Related: Inaugural BMW Motorrad Days Americas at Barber Vintage Festival a Success

The BMW motorcycles on display at The Ultimate Driving Museum include a selection of prewar singles and boxer twins, postwar street and racing machines, including the 1938 R 51 Super Sport raced by Tim Reid in the 1939 Isle of Man TT, the world championship-winning 1958 Fath Kneeler sidecar racer, and Reg Pridmore’s 1976 AMA Superbike championship-winning R 90 S, plus a world-traveling R 80 G/S and other assorted rarities from the 100-year span of BMW Motorcycle history.

The Ultimate Driving Museum is located across the street from BMW Plant Spartanburg, the largest BMW Group production plant in the world, and just down the road from the BMW Performance Driving School and U.S. Rider Academy.

Related: Street Survival at the BMW U.S. Rider Academy

BMW Car Club of America Foundation

The Ultimate Driving Museum

190 Manatee Ct, Greer, SC 29651

Tel: 864-329-1919

Email: info@bmwccafoundation.org

Website: https://theultimatedrivingmuseum.org/

Hours: Monday – Friday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

The post The Ultimate Driving Museum Hosts ‘BMW Motorcycles: A Century of Innovation’ Exhibit appeared first on Rider Magazine.

The 2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000GX+ is a new “crossover” motorcycle that combines the engine performance and chassis of a sport-tourer with the upright stance and long-travel suspension of an adventure bike. Think of it as the love child of a GSX-S1000GT+ and a V-Strom 1050. It’s also a direct competitor for the BMW S 1000 XR, Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ and Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT+.

Related: Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+ Review | Road Test

Related: Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT Review | Tour Test

The GSX-S1000GX+ features Suzuki’s first electronic suspension system, which is integrated into the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) electronics suite. Available in the spring of 2024, the GSX-S1000GX+ will retail for $18,499.

Sharing an engine with the GSX-S1000 sportbike and GSX-S1000GT+ sport-tourer, the GX+ is powered by a long-stroke 999cc inline-Four adapted from the GSX-R1000 K5 (2005-2008) and retuned to make it more suitable for the street. When we tested a 2022 GSX-S1000, it made 136 hp at 10,200 rpm and 73 lb-ft of torque at 9,300 rpm on Jett Tuning’s rear-wheel dyno. Camshaft profiles were revised to decrease lift and valve overlap in an effort to reduce emissions and improve rideability.

Equipped with throttle-by-wire and a six-axis IMU, the GSX-S1000GX+ features the most comprehensive Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) electronics suite yet. It includes Suzuki Drive Mode Selector Alpha (SDMS-α) with three ride modes (Active, Basic, and Comfort) that have presets for throttle response, traction control, and suspension damping.

Developed by Showa, the new the Suzuki Advanced Electronic Suspension (SAES) combines the SFF-CATM inverted telescopic fork, BFRC-lite link-style rear shock, and electronic damping control with four modes (Hard, Medium, Soft, and a customizable User mode) as well as incremental adjustability. Spring preload is adjusted manually on the fork but electronically on the rear shock. There are several proprietary algorithms programmed into the SAES system, including Suzuki Floating Ride Control, Suzuki Velocity Dependent Control, and Suzuki Deceleration Damping Control, which are designed to improve ride quality and chassis stability.

The S.I.R.S. electronics suite also includes the five-mode Suzuki Traction Control System with wheelie control and Roll Torque Control (adjusts engine output during cornering), an up/down quickshifter, Smart Cruise Control (which can be used with the quickshifter), cornering ABS, rear lift mitigation, the Suzuki Easy Start System, and Low RPM Assist. Everything is managed via menus on the 6.5-inch color TFT display, which also controls the Suzuki’s mySPIN smartphone app to display maps, phone calls, contacts, and music.

Holding the GSX-S1000GX+ together is a GSX-R-derived twin-spar cast-aluminum frame and cast-aluminum swingarm, along with a tubular-steel trellis subframe. Suspension travel is 5.9 inches front and rear, which is more than the GSX-S1000GT (4.7/5.1 inches) but less than the V-Strom 1050 (6.3/6.3 inches). The taller suspension and lower footpegs increase the distance between the rider’s hip and foot by 0.6 inch, and seat height is 33.3 inches. For added comfort, the passenger seat is 1 inch wider and 0.4 inch thicker than the one on the GSX-S1000GT.

Up front, a pair of Brembo radial-mount monoblock 4-piston calipers squeeze 310mm discs, and at the rear is a Nissin 1-piston caliper squeezing a 240mm disc. Cornering ABS is standard.

Similar to its GT stablemate, the GSX-S1000GX+ has a sharply pointed front fairing with a pair of stacked LED headlights in the center and a pair of “cat eye” LED position lights. It also has angular side panels and radiator shrouds that match the sharply creased fuel tank, which holds 5.0 gallons of fuel. The wheels, engine, components, frame, swingarm radiator shrouds, low-slung exhaust pipe, handlebar, seat, and most of the side cases are finished in black. The front fender, front fairing, fuel tank, and top side case panels are finished in a dark Pearl Matte Shadow Green, which contrasts with the silver on the side panels and rear luggage rack and the gold fork tubes.

Touring amenities include standard handguards, a three-position windscreen, a rubber-mounted handlebar, a luggage rack that holds up to 13.2 lb, a pair of 25.7-liter side cases that hold up to 11 lb each, and a centerstand. Available accessories include heated grips, premium seats, a low seat (rider seat height 32.7 inches), small and large tankbags, axle sliders, frame sliders, billet levers, logoed tank pads, and tank protection foil.

We selected the Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+ as our 2022 Motorcycle of the Year, and the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT was our 2021 Motorcycle of the Year. We look forward to seeing how the GSX-S1000GX+ stacks up against the latest Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ and Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT+.

Check out more new/updated bikes in Rider’s 2024 Motorcycle Buyers Guide.

2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000GX+ Specifications

• Base Price: $18,499
• Website: SuzukiCycles.com
• Warranty: 1 yr., unltd. miles

ENGINE

• Type: Liquid-cooled, transverse in-line Four, DOHC w/ 4 valves per cyl.
• Displacement: 999cc
• Bore x Stroke: 73.4 x 59.0mm
• Horsepower: 151 hp @ 11,000 rpm (factory claim)
• Torque: 78.2 lb-ft @ 9,250 rpm (factory claim)
• Compression Ratio: 12.2:1
• Valve Insp. Interval: 15,000 miles
• Fuel Delivery: EFI w/ throttle-by-wire, 40mm throttle bodies x 4
• Lubrication System: Wet sump, 3.6 qt. cap.
• Transmission: 6-speed, cable-actuated slip/assist wet clutch
• Final Drive: Chain

CHASSIS

• Frame: Twin-spar cast-aluminum frame, cast-aluminum swingarm, tubular-steel trellis subframe
• Wheelbase: 57.9 in.
• Rake/Trail: N/A
• Seat Height: 33.3 in.
• Suspension, Front: 43mm inverted fork, electronically adj., 5.9 in. travel
• Rear: Single linkage shock, electronically adj., 5.9 in. travel
• Brakes, Front: Dual 310mm floating discs w/ 4-piston radial monoblock calipers & ABS
• Rear: Single 240mm disc w/ 1-piston caliper & ABS
• Wheels, Front: Cast, 3.5 x 17 in.
• Rear: Cast, 6.0 x 17 in.
• Tires, Front: 120/70-ZR17
• Rear: 190/50-ZR17
• Wet Weight: 511 lb (factory claim, excluding side cases)
• Fuel Capacity: 5.0 gal.

The post 2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000GX+ Review | First Look appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Related: Himalayan Cliffhanger | Riding India’s Death Road

The November 2023 issue included “India from Head to Toe,” about riding her Royal Enfield 4,500 miles from the high Himalayan passes to the southernmost tip of India. Check out Cooper’s book, Waiting for Mango Season, available on Amazon, to read more about her adventures in India.

LINKS: Waiting for Mango Season on Amazon, @elliecooper.author on Instagram

You can check out Episode 67 on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Podbean, and YouTube or via the Rider Magazine Insider Podcast webpage. Please subscribe, leave us a 5-star rating, and tell your friends! Scroll down for a list of previous episodes.

Visit the Rider Magazine Insider Podcast webpage to check out previous episodes:

• Ep. 66: Motorcycle Cannonball team Jonas Zahn and Brenda Kuhl, PeglegSpeedShop
• Ep. 65: Tom Medema, RallyForRangers.org
• Ep. 64: Quinn Redeker, PoliceMotorTraining.com
• Ep. 63: Justin Bradshaw, REVER
• Ep. 62: Ed Conde, New England Riders
• Ep. 61: Steven Goode, Great American Scenic Byway Tour benefiting the Parkinson’s Foundation
• Ep. 60: Eric Trow, Stayin’ Safe
• Ep. 59: Nick Ienatsch, Yamaha Champions Riding School
• Ep. 58: Inna Thorn and Tim James, Backcountry Discovery Routes
• Ep. 57: Tim Card, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Fundraiser
• Ep. 56: Kyle Petty, Kyle Petty Charity Ride Across America
• Ep. 55: Guillermo Cornejo, Riders-Share.com
• Ep. 54: Kevin Duke, Editor-in-Chief of American Rider
• Ep. 53: Killboy, Killboy.com
• Ep. 52: Perry Steed, OperationPurpose.net
• Ep. 51: Forrest Hobbs, TransAmerica Trail “purist”
• Ep. 50: Dave Scott, Part 3 on the TransAmerica Trail
• Ep. 49: Gina ‘Brooklyn’ Neumann, Leather and Lace MC
• Ep. 48: Dave Scott on the TransAmerica Trail
• Ep. 47: Neale Bayly, motojournalist and philanthropist
• Ep. 46: Dave Scott, TransAmerica Trail Part 1
• Ep. 45: C. Jane Taylor, author of Spirit Traffic
• Ep. 44: Moshe K. Levy, Moto Mouth Moshe
• Ep. 43: Can Akkaya, Superbike-Coach.com
• Ep. 42: Andre LaPlante, MotoVentures
• Ep. 41: Scott A. Williams, writer and contributor to Rider
• Ep. 40: Chris Peterman, Director of Motorcycles at CFMOTO USA
• Ep. 39: Hayley Bell, Founder and President of Global Business Development for Women Riders World Relay
• Ep. 38: Eric Trow, Rider Contributing Editor and Stayin’ Safe Principal
• Ep. 37: Bill Dragoo, Dragoo Adventure Riding Training (DART)
• Ep. 36: Gordon McCall, Director of Motorsports for The Quail Motorcycle Gathering
• Ep. 35: Rennie Scaysbrook, Pikes Peak record holder, motorcycle journalist, and racer
• Ep. 34: Cat MacLeod of Leod Escapes Motorcycle “Track and Tour”
• Ep. 33: Inna Thorn and Tim James of Backcountry Discovery Routes
• Ep. 32: C. Jane Taylor, author of Spirit Traffic
• Ep. 31: Alan Wilzig, motorcycle collector and owner of Wilzig Racing Manor
• Ep. 30: Scott Moreno, founder and owner of IMTBike Motorcycle Tours and Rentals
• Ep. 29: Greg Rice, long-distance rider and Iron Butt Rally competitor
• Ep. 28: Brian Case, Director of the Barber Advanced Design Center at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
• Ep. 27: Steven Goode, motorcyclist who completed the Great American Deli Schlep to support MAZON
• Ep. 26: Nancy Gerloff and Mark Augustyn, creators of Mimi and Moto: The Motorcycle Monkeys
• Ep. 25: Jess Stone, designer of the K9 Moto Cockpit and founder of Ruffly
• Ep. 24: Eddie Braun, Hollywood stuntman who completed Evel Knievel’s Snake River Canyon jump, and star of the film “Stuntman”
• Ep. 23: Ryan McFarland, founder and CEO of Strider Bikes and All Kids Bike advocate
• Ep. 22: Americade interview with Bill, Gini, and Christian Dutcher
• Ep. 21: Peter Starr, motorcycle filmmaker, author, and MotoStarr podcast host
• Ep. 20: Jon DelVecchio, founder of Street Skills and author of “Cornering Confidence”
• Ep. 19: Lauren Trantham, founder of Ride My Road
• Ep. 18: Keith Code, founder and director of California Superbike School
• Ep. 17: Valerie Thompson, world’s fastest female motorcycle racer
• Ep. 16: Wayne Rainey, president of MotoAmerica and a motorcycle racing legend
• Ep. 15: Longhaulpaul (Paul Pelland), Chasing the Cure: a million-mile motorcycle journey for MS
• Ep. 14: Andy Goldfine, Aerostich founder and Ride to Work Day advocate
• Ep. 13: Dr. Gregory W. Frazier, America’s #1 extreme motorcycle adventurer
• Ep. 12: Daniel Calderon, Curator of Exhibitions at SFO Museum
• Ep. 11: Peter Jones, Rider columnist and author of The Bad Editor
• Ep. 10: Christian Dutcher, Director of Americade and Touratech DirtDaze Rally
• Ep. 09: Melissa Holbrook Pierson, author of The Perfect Vehicle
• Ep. 08: Rainer Buck, CEO of Edelweiss Bike Travel
• Ep. 07: Michael Lock, CEO of AMA Pro Racing
• Ep. 06: Alonzo Bodden, motorcycle enthusiast and comedian
• Ep. 05: Paul D’Orleans, publisher of The Vintagent
• Ep. 04: Eric Trow, Rider columnist and owner, Stayin’ Safe Advanced Riding Training
• Ep. 03: Clement Salvadori, traveling motorcyclist and Rider contributor
• Ep. 02: Kevin Wing, world-class motorcycle photographer and Rider contributor
• Ep. 01: Robert Pandya and Discover the Ride at the Progressive International Motorcycle Shows

The post Ellie Cooper | Ep. 67 Rider Magazine Insider Podcast appeared first on Rider Magazine.

The Thruxton is dead, long live the Thruxton! The legendary Triumph Thruxton cafe racer, with a pedigree that goes back to the 1960s, will soon have its swan song: the 2025 Triumph Thruxton Final Edition marks the end of an icon.

At a press conference about the Thruxton Final Edition, James Wood, Triumph’s global marketing manager, said, “This decision [to end production of the Thruxton] was not taken lightly,” adding that the Speed Twin “has taken over the mantle as the sports classic in our lineup with its less over-the-bars ergonomics and its own aggressive poise and good looks.”

Introduced in 1964 as a limited-edition racebike, the Triumph Thruxton found early success in endurance races, claimed all three podium places at the 1969 Thruxton 500-mile race, and became the first production motorcycle to lap the Isle of Man TT Mountain Course at more than 100 mph. With a unique blend of style, handling, and performance, the Thruxton was beloved by sport-minded “ton-up” riders the world over.

In 2004, after Triumph was resurrected and found success under the direction of John Bloor, the modern Thruxton 900 made its debut, powered by a 69-hp air/oil-cooled parallel-Twin. But the performance potential of the legendary cafe racer got a boost in 2016 with the Thruxton R, with a “high power” variant of the 1,200cc parallel-Twin that boasted a peak of 96 hp and 83 lb-ft of torque.

Related: 2021 Triumph Thruxton RS | Road Test Review

The Triumph Thruxton Final Edition is based on the Thruxton RS and uses Triumph’s High Power 1,200cc parallel-Twin that produces a claimed 104 hp and 83 lb-ft of torque. Its 270-degree crankshaft layout emits a deep V-Twin-like exhaust note.

The most striking feature of the Thuxton Final Edition is its exclusive Competition Green paint scheme with hand-painted gold pinstripes. A special touch is that each bike is signed by the artist who painted it.

“This gold lining really is an expert skill with only a small handful of artists in our world-leading paint facilities trained to apply this detail,” said Wood. “Each line is hand-painted using specially developed paint applied in long continuous strokes to get that gorgeous finish.”

Each Thruxton Final Edition comes with a certificate of authenticity featuring the bike’s VIN number, which is signed by members of the Thruxton 1200 design team and Triumph CEO Nick Bloor. A unique Final Edition engine badge will also be supplied with each motorcycle, with a gold-finished surround and “Final Edition” graphic infill.

“This really is the final chapter in this incredible story,” said Wood, “and a motorcycle that provides an exclusive opportunity for riders to own a piece of history as part of the one last final production run.”

Fully adjustable suspension includes a Showa Big Piston inverted fork and Öhlins piggyback shocks. Lightweight 17-inch aluminum 32-spoke wheels are fitted with grippy Metzeler Racetec RR tires. Up front, Brembo M50 radial monoblock calipers provide high-performance braking backed up by ABS.

The Thruxton’s classic styling includes two round analog gauges with LCD insets that provide at-a-glance information including riding mode setting, gear-position indicator, fuel level, and odometer. Three ride modes (Sport, Road, and Rain) adjust throttle response and traction control to suit conditions. A USB charging port is standard.

In addition to the Competition Green metallic paint scheme and gold pinstripes, the Thruxton Final Edition has contrasting black side panels and fenders, a gold Heritage Triumph logo on the tank, and Thruxton Final Edition branding.

More than 80 genuine Triumph Thruxton accessories are available, including a “passenger set-up” with a pillion seat, passenger footrests, and a grab rail. Exclusive to the Final Edition, a dedicated accessory cockpit fairing is also available, color-matched to blend perfectly with the limited-edition Competition Green paint scheme.

The 2025 Triumph Thruxton Final Edition is priced at $17,995. Orders can be placed now at Triumph dealers, with bikes arriving in dealers starting in spring of 2024. For more information, visit Triumph’s website.

The post 2025 Triumph Thruxton Final Edition | First Look appeared first on Rider Magazine.

On Saturday, Oct. 7, from 7-10 a.m., there will be Suzuki Motorcycles, Cars, and Coffee event at Suzuki Motor USA headquarters in Brea, California.

The event is open to all brands of motorcycles and cars, and Suzuki will provide donuts, coffee and water. There will be have several new models out on display.

The Suzuki Motorcycles, Cars, and Coffee event will be held at 3251 E. Imperial Hwy, Brea, CA 92821.

The map below shows where to enter the Suzuki Motor USA campus off Nasa St. From the 57 Freeway, go east on Imperial Hwy, turn left on Valencia St., then turn left on Nasa St., and pull into the parking lot. There is room for more than 300 motorcycles and cars.

Ride your Hayabusa or V-Strom, or drive your Grand Vitara or Samurai, and come have some fun!

The post Suzuki Motorcycles, Cars, and Coffee | Saturday, Oct. 7 appeared first on Rider Magazine.

IMTBike Motorcycle Tours has published its full 2024 calendar. Destinations include Spain, Portugal, Italy, France, the Alps, and Morocco along with MotoGP tours and global tours in Turkey, Thailand, Japan, and Vietnam. Check out the IMTBike 2024 tour calendar for dates, details, and pricing. Sign up now to lock in IMTBike’s current prices.

Related: Iberian Escape | IMTBike Southern Spain Andalusia Tour Review

Many of IMTBike’s tours have new improved routing for 2024, and the company’s fleet of more than 200 BMW motorcycles will be updated with the latest 2024 models. Established in 1997, IMTBike has been conducting motorcycle tours for 26 years, and it has not only extensive experience but a reputation for high-quality tours. Check out the IMTBike testimonials page to find out what many satisfied clients have to say.

Related: Rider Podcast with Scott Moreno, Founder and CEO of IMTBike

For more information, visit the IMTBike website.

The post IMTBike 2024 Tour Calendar Now Available appeared first on Rider Magazine.

BMW Motorrad has announced a thorough overhaul for its top-selling model for 2024, now called the BMW R 1300 GS thanks to an increase in displacement from 1,254cc to 1,300cc. The GS’s signature opposed “boxer” Twin now makes a claimed 145 hp and 110 lb-ft of torque, up from 136 hp and 105 lb-ft on the R 1250 GS. With a claimed curb weight of 523 lb, the new R 1300 GS is 26 lb lighter than its predecessor.

Related: 2021 BMW R 1250 GS 40 Years Edition Review | Road Test

The increased displacement results from a larger bore (106.5mm, up from 102.5) and a shorter stroke (73mm, down from 76). Not only did peak torque increase, BMW says there is a significant increase in torque throughout the rev range, with 96 lb-ft or more available between 3,600 and 7,800 rpm. The engine is also said to run more smoothly, and repositioning it within the frame reduces vibration. Returning is the BMW ShiftCam system that varies the valve timing and valve stroke on the intake side, but the camshaft drive arrangement has been revised. A new 2-into-1 stainless steel exhaust is lighter and optimized to work with ShiftCam. Of the 26 lb shaved off the GS, 8.6 lb came from the engine and another 5.7 lb from the rest of the powertrain.

As part of the redesign, the 6-speed gearbox was moved under the engine, which reduces the overall length of the powertrain and better centralizes mass. The transmission now uses a sensor signal transmitter and a torsion magnet for the optional Shift Assistant Pro quickshifter, which BMW says provides a more direct feel. The driveshaft now has larger universal joints, and the rear axle now has a longer axle stub for easier mounting and dismounting of the rear wheel.

Four ride modes are standard: Road, Rain, Eco, and Enduro. The optional Riding Modes Pro adds Dynamic, Dynamic Pro, and Enduro Pro, and the “Pro” modes are customizable. The R 1300 GS can be further customized to show only preferred ride modes. Also standard is Engine Drag Torque Control (MSR), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Dynamic Brake Assist (DBC), and Hill Start Control (HSC).

The entire chassis of the 2024 BMW R 1300 GS has been revised. Replacing the former tubular-steel bridge main frame is a new steel sheet metal main frame, which BMW says allows for more compact packaging as well as increased stiffness. And replacing the former tubular-steel subframe is a die-cast aluminum unit that is said to be lighter, stiffer, narrower, and more tightly bonded to the main frame for added stability.

Suspension consists of the front Evo Telelever and rear Evo Paralever. The new Evo Telelever incorporates a novel flex element whereby the upper fork bridge is “pivotally and rotatably connected via a radial swivel bearing to a sturdy steering shaft tube, which in turn is guided in the main frame via a cylindrical roller bearing at the top and a deep groove ball bearing at the bottom.” BMW says the new design offers significantly greater rigidity as well as improved stability. The new Evo Paralever has a stiffer connection to the shock, a longer single-sided swingarm for increased traction, a quick-release axle, and a swingarm bearing that is now off-axis to that of the rotation of the cardan shaft joint.

The optional Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) has been updated as well. The system not only adjusts front and rear damping in real time based on settings and conditions, but it also now adjusts spring rate, automatically adjusts for different loads, and integrates with different ride modes.

Similar to the Adaptive Ride Height available on the Harley-Davidson Pan America and the recently announced Active Preload Reduction available on Triumph Tiger 1200 models, a new option on the R 1300 GS is adaptive vehicle height control, which reduces seat height from 33.5 inches to 32.3 inches during slow travel and when stopped. Also available is optional sports suspension, which adds 0.8 inch of suspension travel front and rear and a firm setup designed for off-road riding.

Standard equipment on the R 1300 GS includes Full Integral ABS Pro, which has Pro settings that turn ABS off at the rear wheel. Optional Dynamic Brake Control prevents unintentional throttle application during braking and reduces drive torque to get the most out of the rear brake for optimal stability and shorter stopping distances.

Replacing the GS’s signature asymmetrical headlight is a new centralized LED headlight surrounded by an X-shaped matrix of four LED running lights, and the optional Headlight Pro adds cornering function. LED front turnsignals are now integrated into the handguards.

The R 1300 GS also comes standard with a 6.5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity, the Multi-Controller wheel on the left handlebar, tire-pressure monitoring, heated grips, USB and 12V outlets, Keyless Ride, and Dynamic Cruise Control. The new optional Riding Assistant adds radar sensors to enable Active Cruise Control (ACC), Front Collision Warning (FCW), and Lane Change Warning (SWW).

Three wheel options are available, all in 19×3.0-inch front and 17×4.5-inch rear sizes. Standard and Triple Black models come with cast-aluminum wheels. Trophy and Option 719 Tramuntana model variants are fitted with newly developed cross-spoke wheels featuring aluminum rings for dedicated off-road use. A third option is new Enduro forged wheels, which are intended for off-road use and are 3.9 lb lighter than the more robust cross-spoke wheels.

In terms of styling, the 2024 BMW R 1300 GS has a more aerodynamic look, with a sharper beak, a flatter tank, and a slimmer tailsection.

In addition to the standard model, several variants will be available. The R 1300 GS Triple Black variant returns with blacked-out bodywork and components, comfort seats, comfort passenger footpegs, and a centerstand. It also features an electric windscreen, wind deflectors, and special cockpit trim.

The R 1300 GS Trophy has a Racing Blue Metallic colorway with red and white detailing and a White Metallic Matte subframe. A high rider’s seat and Sport passenger seat offer the look and ergonomics of a rally seat (34.2-inch seat height), and the seat cover continues onto the fuel tank. The Trophy also comes with radiator guards and cross-spoke wheels with black rims or optional gold rims.

The new R 1300 GS Option 719 Tramuntana features cross-spoke wheels with gold rims, a gold anodized handlebar, and gold trim on the bodywork. The chassis and components are black, the fuel tank center cover is Luxor Black/Grey, and the cylinder head covers are Avus Black Metallic Matte. The side trim sections, the top of the front fender, the aluminum tank, and intake silencer are finished in Aurelius Green Metallic. Special optional equipment includes a top case carrier in Avus Black Metallic, a gray-colored handguard extension, cross-spoke wheels with black rims, and titanium-colored anodized sport brakes.

Pricing for the 2024 BMW R 1300 GS starts at $18,895. Find out more at the BMW Motorrad website.

2024 BMW R 1300 GS Specifications

• Base Price: $18,895
• Website: BMWMotorcycles.com
• Warranty: 3 yrs., 36,000 miles
• Engine Type: Air/liquid-cooled, longitudinal opposed-Twin, DOHC w/ VVT, 4 valves per cyl.
• Displacement: 1,300cc
• Bore x Stroke: 106.5 x 73.0mm
• Horsepower: 145 @ 7,750 rpm (factory claim)
• Torque: 110 lb-ft @ 6,500 rpm (factory claim)
• Transmission: 6-speed, hydraulically actuated slip/assist wet clutch
• Final Drive: Shaft
• Wheelbase: 59.8 in.
• Rake/Trail: 26.2 degrees/4.4 in.
• Seat Height: 33.5 in.
• Wet Weight: 523 lb
• Fuel Capacity: 5.0 gal.

The post 2024 BMW R 1300 GS Review | First Look appeared first on Rider Magazine.

American Honda has announced that the highly anticipated Honda XL750 Transalp is coming to the U.S. market for the 2024 model year.

The Transalp was originally introduced in Europe in 1986, first showing up in the U.S. for the 1989 model year with a liquid-cooled, 600cc 52-degree V-Twin with 3 valves per cylinder bolted into a full-cradle frame with a box section swingarm. A 41mm fork provided almost 8 inches of travel up front, and Pro-Link suspension offered 7.5 inches of rear-wheel travel.

Unfortunately, timing and American attitudes about motorcycles, combined with the on-road/off-road orientation of the bike, meant the Transalp only lasted two years in U.S. market.

Related: Retrospective: Honda XL600V Transalp: 1989 – 1990

However, fast forward three decades, and not only have times changed, but so has the Transalp, and after seeing considerable success in the European market, U.S. buyers are clamoring to give this new-generation middleweight adventure bike another spin.

“As the adventure category continues to thrive and evolve, customers are more eager than ever to get out and explore,” said Brandon Wilson, American Honda manager of Racing & Experiential Marketing. “The all-new, midsize XL750 Transalp joins Honda’s iconic Africa Twin and pocket-adventurer CB500X to complete our popular True Adventure lineup, ready to deliver unforgettable outdoor experiences to U.S. ADV enthusiasts from coast to coast.”

In the company’s announcement, Honda called the XL750 Transalp, “friendly but tough—perfect for extended touring trips, as well as the urban cut and thrust, and all points in between.”

See all of Rider‘s Honda coverage here.

The 2024 Honda XL750 Transalp features a liquid-cooled 755cc parallel-Twin with Honda’s Unicam design, 4 valves per cylinder, and 270-degree crank. It has a 6-speed gearbox, throttle-by-wire, a slip/assist clutch, and a standard quickshifter. The bike now comes with five ride modes – Sport, Standard, Rain, Gravel, and rider-customizable – that regulate power delivery, engine braking, and ABS intervention. It also has Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) for increased or decreased rear-wheel spin.

Speaking of wheels, the 2024 Honda XL750 Transalp rides on 21/18-inch front/rear spoked wheels. For stopping power, gone is the rear drum brake, replaced by a 256mm disc, and the front now has dual discs (310mm) instead of the previous single. ABS is standard and can be turned off for the rear wheel. Suspension travel is still comparable, with a 43mm Showa SFF-CA inverted fork offering 7.9 inches of travel and Showa Pro-Link rear shock providing 7.5 inches.

The seat height is 33.7 inches, and Honda offers an available 32.6-inch accessory seat. It has 8.3 inches of clearance, a 4.5-gallon fuel tank, and a curb weight of 459 lb.

The Transalp has a 5.0-inch full-color LCD display with four display options, self-canceling turnsignals, and a USB-C port under the passenger seat. The 2024 Honda XL750 Transalp will be available in October in Matte Black Metallic starting at $9,999.

For more information, visit the Honda Powersports website.

Check out more new bikes in Rider‘s 2024 Motorcycle Buyers Guide

The post 2024 Honda XL750 Transalp Review | First Look appeared first on Rider Magazine.

It’s been a few weeks since our test ride on the 2023 Honda SCL500, and we still have a smile on our face. The SCL500 doesn’t make much power (about 46 hp at the rear wheel) and it doesn’t have any fancy features, and that’s what we love about it. Like the ’60s-era Honda scramblers that inspired the SCL500, it’s a basic, cool-looking runabout that is ideal for cruising around town or taking short jaunts on backroads. Its simplicity is its virtue. Just pure, uncomplicated fun.

Watch the video to see the 2023 Honda SCL500 in action and read our full review.

2023 Honda SCL500 Specifications 

• Base Price: $6,799 
• Website: Powersports.Honda.com 
• Warranty: 1 yr., unltd. miles 
• Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, transverse parallel-Twin, DOHC w/ 4 valves per cyl. 
• Displacement: 471cc 
• Bore x Stroke: 67.0 x 66.8mm 
• Transmission: 6-speed, cable-actuated slip/assist wet clutch 
• Final Drive: Chain 
• Wheelbase: 58.4 in. 
• Rake/Trail: 27 degrees/4.3 in. 
• Seat Height: 31.1 in. 
• Wet Weight: 419 lb 
• Fuel Capacity: 3.2 gal. 
• Fuel Consumption: 60.6 mpg (per bike’s instruments) 

GEAR UP

• Helmet: SMK Retro Adventure 
• Jacket: Highway 21 Winchester 
• Gloves: Highway 21 Jab Full Perforated 
• Pants: Fly Racing Resistance Jeans 
• Boots: Fly Racing Tradesman 

The post 2023 Honda SCL500 Review | Video appeared first on Rider Magazine.