Free cookie consent management tool by TermsFeedUpdate cookies preferencesList Archives - H Touring Bikes
Categories
Harley Davidson News

Jeans, Whiskey, and Cricket Balls: UK Ministers Compile Extensive 400-Page List of US Products Facing Potential Tariffs in Response to Trump.

UK officials have compiled an extensive 417-page document detailing US imports that may face tariffs as a response to Trump’s White House onslaught against global trade.

Popular items such as Levi’s jeans, Jack Daniel’s whiskey, and Harley Davidson motorcycles feature prominently in this extensive list.

These products were already subject to tariffs during the trade wars of Mr. Trump’s initial term in office.

Additionally, the exhaustive list encompasses a variety of goods, from livestock and meats like chicken wings to more unusual items including rollercoasters, cricket balls, live bees, and mannequins.

In a surprising twist that may displease the golf-loving president, the compilation includes golf clubs and balls produced in the USA.

This document was unveiled during a four-week consultation period aimed at determining the UK’s response to Trump’s tariff-related rhetoric.

Under Trump’s ‘Make America Wealthy Again’ strategy, the UK has already faced a general 10 percent tariff on its exports to the US, leading to a decline in stock markets globally.

Sir Keir Starmer and Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds are currently working to negotiate a trade agreement that would eliminate these tariffs.

However, they have established a deadline of May 1, after which the UK may take action.

Jeans, Whiskey, and Cricket Balls: UK Ministers Compile Extensive 400-Page List of US Products Facing Potential Tariffs in Response to Trump.

Consumer favourites like Levi’s jeans, Jack Daniel’s whiskey, and Harley Davidson motorcycles are all in the astonishingly lengthy document.

But the comprehensive list also covers items from livestock and raw meat like chicken wings to rollercoasters and cricket balls.

The comprehensive list also encompasses items from livestock and raw meats such as chicken wings to rollercoasters and cricket balls.

The list was released as part of the government's four-week consultation on how to respond to Trump's tariff tirade last night.

The list was released as part of the government’s four-week consultation on how to respond to Trump’s tariff tirade last night.

The consultation stated: ‘We want to hear your thoughts on the potential impacts of any future UK tariffs on US goods, in response to recent tariff announcements made by the US government.’

‘The feedback collected will assist the Government in evaluating the implications of any UK tariff measures that could be implemented.’

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds informed MPs that businesses will have the opportunity to share their views on how they will be affected by any UK actions aimed at countering the US president’s global trade policies.

The Prime Minister has acknowledged that the 10 percent import tariff would have negative economic repercussions for the UK.

Officials are committed to continuing negotiations for a trade agreement with the US, while Sir Keir Starmer emphasized that ‘no options are off the table’ regarding the response.

During a Commons address on Thursday, Mr. Reynolds remarked: ‘We believe the best path to economic stability for the workforce is through a negotiated agreement with the US that leverages our shared strengths.’

‘Nonetheless, we reserve the right to take any actions deemed necessary if a deal is not reached.’

In a move that may horrify the golf-loving president, the list includes clubs and balls made in the USA.

In a move that may displease the golf-loving president, the list includes clubs and balls made in the USA.

‘To ensure that the UK retains every option available in the future, I am formally launching a request for input regarding the ramifications for British businesses of potential retaliatory measures.

‘This is a necessary step for maintaining all options on the table.

‘Over the next four weeks until May 1, 2025, we will seek the opinions of UK stakeholders on products that could possibly be included in any UK tariff reaction.

‘This effort will also allow businesses to express their views and influence the planning of any potential UK actions.

‘If we reach a point where we can negotiate an economic agreement with the US that ends the tariffs on our industries, this request for input will be suspended, and any resultant measures will be revoked.’

Mr. Reynolds added: ‘Further details regarding the request for input will be available on gov.uk later today, along with an indicative list of products that the Government considers most appropriate for potential inclusion.’

On Wednesday night, the US president announced tariffs affecting countries worldwide, with the UK’s 10 percent rate classified as the lowest ‘baseline’ rate, though the Prime Minister acknowledged that British exporters would suffer from this charge.

When addressing senior executives from major UK companies at Downing Street, Sir Keir stated: ‘Clearly, the decisions made by the US will have economic consequences both here and internationally.’

He emphasized that ‘no one benefits from a trade war’ and reaffirmed that the UK maintains a ‘fair and balanced trade relationship with the US.’

Negotiations for an ‘economic prosperity deal’ expected to alleviate the impact of the tariffs will proceed, as Sir Keir promised to ‘fight for the best deal for Britain.’

However, he stated he would ‘only pursue a deal that serves the national interest and is the right decision for the safety of working individuals.’

The Government expressed some relief that the 10 percent rate imposed on the UK is lower than those on other countries.

The EU faces tariffs of 20 percent, while Japan’s rate stands at 24 percent.

In 2023, the UK exported £60.4 billion worth of goods to the US, representing approximately 15 percent of all goods exports.

While the 10 percent blanket tariff will take effect on Saturday, the car sector has already been afflicted by a 25 percent import duty that commenced early Thursday morning.

The FTSE 100 Index experienced a sharp decline upon opening on Thursday, dropping 122.4 points or 1.4 percent in the initial minutes of trading.

Mr. Trump characterized the tariffs as ‘reciprocal’ responses to levies imposed by other countries, though the rationale for the specific 10 percent figure for the UK remains unclear.

The president also cited ‘exorbitant’ VAT rates as a barrier for US businesses, even though this tax affects all purchases in the UK regardless of origin.

Categories
Harley Davidson Videos

Harley Davidson Sportster Review – Bobber Sportster with Mod list



This week I review a bobber style 2018 Harley Davidson Sportster 48 Special with a seemingly endless modification list.

source

Categories
Harley Davidson News

Five Must-Have Bikes for Your Bucket List That You Can Buy Today

All motorcycles are incredible, but a few truly shine in a sea of otherwise generic machines. These are the bikes that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime.

With today’s increasingly stringent emissions regulations reshaping the motorcycle industry, larger engine displacements have become the norm, and electronic enhancements are playing a bigger role in daily riding. While we highly encourage any motorcycle enthusiast to seize the chance to ride a classic two-stroke or a vintage British bike, here are five contemporary motorcycles available for purchase now that you absolutely must try before you retire your helmet. Given the fast-paced changes in the market, don’t hesitate to seize these opportunities while they last…

Ducati Scrambler

Ducatis carry a certain allure, particularly the models featuring their iconic 90-degree V-twin engine and desmodromic valves.

Recently, the Italian manufacturer has shifted focus away from this classic format. The V4 engines introduced in MotoGP two decades ago have gradually seeped into their range of street bikes, while even the V-twins now often feature conventional valve operation, which results in longer service intervals and reduced maintenance costs.

Some ‘Desmo’ twins still exist, like the Monster, but if you seek the most traditional experience, hop on the Scrambler while it’s still available. It showcases all the quintessential Ducati features, featuring an air-cooled, 803cc version of the V-twin engine complete with the signature Ducati valvetrain.

It’s a fun, lightweight, and highly accessible entry point into the world of Ducatis, reminiscent of when motorcycles were simpler and devoid of radiators. Though Euro5 regulations have muted some of the Scrambler’s sound and character, it remains one of the few air-cooled motorcycles available today—so take it for a spin before they become a thing of the past.

Check out our review of the latest Ducati Scrambler here.

Harley-Davidson Fat Boy

Five Must-Have Bikes for Your Bucket List That You Can Buy Today

Do you recall the disdain many bikers had for Harleys?

Admittedly, two decades ago, they were viewed as slow, pricey, and technologically outdated, yet they possessed a unique character and offered a riding experience that garnered a dedicated fanbase. It’s unfortunate they faced such criticism, as these American icons needed to be ridden to be truly understood. That’s why we believe that riding a Harley remains a bucket-list item. Contemporary Harleys are markedly more sophisticated than their predecessors, while still retaining a distinctiveness that continues to provoke unwarranted backlash from those who have (usually) never experienced one.

We’re featuring the Fat Boy, one of Harley-Davidson’s most iconic designs, but feel free to choose whichever model you prefer. Better yet, why not go full HOG (get it?) and rent a Fat Boy for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure down Route 66? Sure, it will cost a pretty penny, but it’s a bucket list experience, right?

Suzuki GSX1300R Hayabusa

Suzuki Hayabusa

The late 1990s marked an era when power and top speed were everything.

Kawasaki’s ZZR1100 was among the world’s first hyperbikes, boasting a top speed of 180mph. The Honda Blackbird followed, and then came Suzuki’s GSX1300R ‘Hayabusa’ in 1999, surpassing them all.

Claiming a 200mph potential, the ‘Busa was named after a peregrine falcon that famously preys on blackbirds. It was designed to be the fastest bike on the market and showcased unique streamlined bodywork that sparked debate yet propelled it closer to its headline-grabbing top speed.

And headlines were indeed made, although often not in a positive light. With governments stepping in to impose power restrictions, Japanese manufacturers struck a deal to halt the race and limit their bikes to 186mph. The Hayabusa survived, but only the first two years of production saw it at full throttle.

As tastes evolved at the turn of the century, lighter and more nimble sportbikes rose in popularity, pushing R1s, GSX-Rs, and Ninjas to the forefront while the Japanese brands phased out their hyperbikes following every new emissions law.

Except for Suzuki, which even revamped its iconic Hayabusa in 2022.

The latest ‘Busa, having undergone a facelift and equipped with an array of electronic enhancements, offers a more refined experience than the original models. It remains long and hefty compared to modern sportbikes and is less versatile than an adventure motorcycle, but there’s still something truly special about riding a 190bhp inline-four. The ‘Busa is a legend, and even as it nears its twilight years, it delivers a riding experience that’s unforgettable.

Discover more in our review of the latest Suzuki Hayabusa on our website.

Triumph Rocket 3

Triumph Rocket 3

Launched in 2004, the Triumph Rocket 3 (originally Rocket III) made waves as the world’s largest capacity production motorcycle. With its 2.3-liter three-cylinder engine, this powerful British cruiser attracted a new demographic to Triumph, including many former ‘Busa enthusiasts who understood that bigger is often better. Although it’s large and heavy, the relatively low seat height makes it less daunting than you might expect.

The second-generation Rocket arrived in 2019. Where the original models were rather rudimentary, the latest Rocket 3 boasts a much higher level of sophistication. The engine continues to be the focal point, now complemented by modern electronics for a refined riding experience.

Nonetheless, the engine is still phenomenal – arguably more impressive than ever. With 221Nm of torque available at 4000rpm, you can choose a gear and ride that torque curve, while the engine has been substantially upgraded to deliver 180bhp from an impressive 2.5 liters. It’s undeniably a unique motorcycle – making it one you absolutely have to try sometime.

To learn more, check out our review of the 2024 Triumph Rocket 3 GT Storm.

Zero DSR/X

Zero DSRX

Electric motorcycles often receive a bad reputation, usually from those who haven’t tried them, but we advocate giving them a chance before casting judgment.

While they do come with limitations—particularly regarding range and charging times (not to mention the price)—we can assure you that they are incredibly fun to ride. The Zero DSR/X stands out as a top contender among electric bikes, and the immediate hit of 225Nm of torque is something that will stick in your memory for a long time. The delivery of power and torque is unlike any traditional internal combustion engine bike, and while we understand why some riders may view the lack of gears and engine noise as undesirable, it’s a completely different experience that delivers instantaneous power.

In recent times, several electric motorcycle manufacturers have gone under. The market for powerful, high-priced electric options appears to be slow to grow, but the American brand Zero remains resilient. We could have suggested a classic Guzzi (air-cooled and shaft-driven V-twin) as a must-ride bike, but experiencing a powerful electric motorcycle is an opportunity too unique to overlook. If nothing else, we encourage you to book a test ride, engage Sport mode, and twist that throttle. Whether or not electric biking is the future is still up for debate, and they might not be around forever—so at least try one before passing judgment.

Read about our experience touring on a Zero DSR/X.