Harley-Davidson has introduced a limited edition of the Street 750 to commemorate a decade of its presence in India. The motorcycle is priced at Rs. 5,47,100 (ex-showroom, India), with only 300 units being produced.
The limited edition Street 750 features a fresh color scheme along with decals on both the tank and tail section. It showcases a classic round headlamp and stylish black alloy wheels.
Powered by a 749cc, liquid-cooled V-twin engine, the motorcycle adheres to BS-VI emission standards. This engine delivers 60 Nm of torque @ 3,750 rpm and is coupled with a 6-speed gearbox.
The Street 750 is equipped with front telescopic fork suspension with rubber gaiters and dual shock absorbers at the rear. It comes with disc brakes on both ends and includes dual-channel ABS for enhanced safety.
This marks Harley Davidson’s first motorcycle compliant with BS-VI emission standards! It somewhat faded in the spotlight due to the unveiling of the LiveWire electric motorcycle at the same event.
Haw Haw Haw clap:clap:clap:
When will Harley understand that merely new stickers and paint jobs don’t make a new bike? After more than 100 years, one would hope they would have learned this by now.
All times are GMT +5.5. The current time is 02:56.
Kenny Wallace, the retired NASCAR driver and FOX Sports personality, recently showcased his black Harley-Davidson motorcycle on social media. The Missouri native claims it’s 114 pounds lighter than other models in its category. He has expressed his intention to ride alongside his older brother, Rusty Wallace, in Sturgis this summer.
Celebrity Net Worth, offered his followers a glance at his Harley-Davidson motorcycle. He confirmed his plans to ride with Rusty in Sturgis, stating:
“Yes. I will be on my 2 wheeler with @RustyWallace in Sturgis.”
A different fan asked Wallace if he owned the carbon fiber Harley, to which he affirmed the assumption and clarified that the carbon fiber contributes to its lighter weight. He responded on X:
“Yes. My carbon fiber Harley is 114 lbs lighter than most Harleys. I LOVE IT 😁❤️”
Rusty Wallace, Kenny’s older brother, stands as one of the most celebrated NASCAR drivers in history. The former Team Penske driver had a remarkable career, winning 55 Cup races and securing the Cup championship in 1989. He retired after the 2005 season, with his last drive being the #2 car for Team Penske. In 2013, Rusty was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame and was selected as one of the sport’s 75 Greatest Drivers in 2023.
Kenny Wallace achieved nine career Xfinity Series victories. Though he didn’t win a Cup race over 344 starts, he notably finished second to Dale Earnhardt at Talladega in 2000, marking the latter’s final win. Kenny later transitioned to television and co-hosted NASCAR RaceDay until the conclusion of the 2013 season.
Kenny Wallace described his X account as a “place for relief” for followers
Through his “Coffee With Kenny” videos and frequent posts on X, Kenny Wallace remains actively engaged on social media. In a recent interaction with a fan, he clarified the purpose of his X profile.
In response to a fan’s appreciation for his “Coffee With Kenny” videos, who noted that NASCAR offers a respite amidst national turmoil, Wallace quoted the comment, saying:
“Like I say. My @X channel is the place for relief 😁💯”
Kenny Wallace last participated in NASCAR for Joe Gibbs Racing during an Xfinity Series race in Iowa in 2015, with his career’s final victory occurring at Rockingham in 2001. As the youngest of the three Wallace brothers, alongside Rusty and Mike, he hails from St. Louis, Missouri.
John Breeden is a NASCAR content writer at Sportskeeda with over three years of experience in sports journalism. His journey started in 2021 when he began contributing to The Breeze, a student-run publication at James Madison University focusing on various collegiate sports. John graduated from JMU in May 2022 with a degree in media arts and design, specializing in journalism. He is currently working for the Daily News-Record in Harrisonburg, VA, where he covers high school and collegiate sports.
Having been a passionate NASCAR fan since 2005, John keeps up with the sport’s latest developments through social media, NASCAR.com, and various NASCAR podcasts, all of which help him craft engaging narratives. A career highlight for John was interviewing Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman of Hendrick Motorsports, at Martinsville Speedway, where he reported on William Byron returning the iconic No. 24 car to the Championship 4.
Aside from motorsports, John enjoys covering other sports such as football, baseball, and basketball. He believes NASCAR can achieve a global following similar to that of Formula 1 by broadening its international presence and enhancing its mainstream appeal like F1 has accomplished.
Harley-Davidson Malaysia is excited to introduce its Model Year 2024 Grand America Touring Initiative, which provides enthusiastic riders and Harley enthusiasts an exclusive chance to acquire two of the brand’s most legendary touring motorcycles—the Road Glide 117 and Street Glide 117.
From now until April 30, 2025, customers can benefit from exclusive offers totaling up to RM20,000 with the purchase of any Model Year 2024 Road Glide 117 or Street Glide 117. Built for long-distance comfort, impressive performance, and distinctive style, these Grand American Touring bikes offer a remarkable riding experience for those ready to embrace the journey.
This special promotion is available for a limited time, while supplies last, with only a select number of units available nationwide.
HARLEY-Davidson has introduced its most powerful motorcycle ever available for public roads, but a significant portion of the fanbase is expressing dissatisfaction with the unveiling.
The iconic motorcycle manufacturer showcased their 2025 CVO Road Glide RR in a promotional video shared on social media, following its announcement at a press conference held in Austin, Texas.
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Harley have revealed a race-replica bike that’s their most powerful production model everCredit: YouTube / Harley-Davidson
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It boasts an impressive 153 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque.Credit: YouTube / Harley-Davidson
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But only 131 units will be produced, with a starting price of $110,000Credit: YouTube / Harley-Davidson
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It represents the highest price the firm has ever charged for one of its bikesCredit: YouTube / Harley-Davidson
The new CVO Road Glide RR is designed on Harley’s touring platform and features a 131 cubic-inch engine that delivers an impressive 153 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque.
However, aspiring owners may find it challenging to obtain one, as only 131 units of this model will be produced, and it carries a hefty starting price of $110,000.
This price point marks the highest ever set by the company for one of its motorcycles, which is said to honor its participation in the renowned “King of the Baggers” motorcycle race series.
During the press event, Jason Kehl, Harley’s Product Development Leader, remarked: “A project like this, a motorcycle of this exclusivity, hand-crafted with only 131 units, wouldn’t be viable without the complete backing of the company.
“This is a ‘factory motorcycle.’ Harley Davidson has referred to that term, pertaining to racing, since 1914.”
For those unaware, Mission King of the Baggers features Harley’s heavier bikes – equipped with fairings and saddlebags – competing against their sole American competitor, Indian Motorcycle.
With this latest model, Harley aims to capitalize on the growing popularity of the racing series, although the response from fans has not met the company’s expectations.
In comments on the unveiling video shared on Facebook, many users voiced their confusion regarding Harley’s choice to launch such an expensive motorcycle.
One commenter said: “Yeah, this is just what people want right now in this economy…spending $150,000 on a Harley after taxes.”
Another remarked: “This is an answer to a question no one asked. You already make $30K bikes with technology that can’t compete against Japanese models priced a third less.”
Harley-Davidson riders point to glaring ‘oversight’ by brand after chain’s stock plummets & dealerships close for good
“Instead of addressing that – you roll out this?”
A third user commented: “If this was the surprise you teased for three quarters, you’re going to disappoint a majority of your audience.
“You’ve missed your target, a swing and miss, HD.”
However, not all feedback was negative.
An optimistic user stated: “For someone who desires the absolute best…here’s your motorcycle, and if I could, I certainly would be interested.”
In a similar vein, Indian released its own race replica, the Challenger RR, in 2023, which was intended strictly for track use—but sales were poor.
Only 29 units were produced, initially priced at $92,229, and the Challenger RR is still available at various dealers for less than the original cost.
In recent months, shares of Harley-Davidson have declined, with motorcycle sales witnessing a third consecutive annual drop.
Escalating prices and interest rates have largely deterred potential buyers.
Harley-Davidson closures in 2024
There are over 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships around the United States.
Nevertheless, various locations have closed for numerous reasons throughout 2024, with little explanation provided.
Below is a list of some Harley-Davidson outlets that have shut down this year:
Reiman’s Harley-Davidson dealership in Kewanee, Illinois, shut its doors in October after the ownership transferred the business to the Walter Brothers Harley Davidson dealership in Peoria, Illinois.
The limited-edition 2025 CVO Road Glide RR boasts a 2,153 cc engine producing 153 hp and 150 lb-ft (204 Nm).
Harley-Davidson has incorporated high-quality components, including Öhlins shocks and Brembo brakes.
Only 131 units of this limited-series motorcycle will be manufactured, exclusively for the U.S. market.
When envisioning a race-ready motorcycle, the name Harley-Davidson likely doesn’t come to mind. Yet the iconic American brand, facing significant challenges in recent years, is now vying with Indian in the King of the Baggers racing series, where their formidable touring bikes are dominating some of the finest racetracks in the United States.
To celebrate its circuit achievements, Harley Davidson has introduced a street-legal version of its race motorcycle, the 2025 CVO Road Glide RR. Not only is it the most powerful Harley ever made for the road, but it also comes with a heart-stopping price tag of $110,000. For context, that’s nearly equivalent to a brand-new Chevy Corvette Z06, which starts at $112,100. Just another typical day in Harley-land.
Engine: Beyond Just Size
The standout feature of this remarkable bike is undoubtedly the engine. It’s an impressive 2,153 cc (2.2-liter) V-twin, which provides more displacement than many well-known performance hatchbacks. This giant engine generates 153 horsepower and 150 lb-ft (204 Nm) of torque. While the horsepower might seem modest compared to some sportbikes exceeding 200 hp, the torque figures tell a different story. For comparison, the BMW M 1000 RR, a top-tier sportbike, produces merely 83 lb-ft (113 Nm) from its smaller 999 cc engine.
It’s not solely the engine that impresses. Harley has equipped the bike with a complete titanium exhaust from Akrapovic and cutting-edge Brembo brakes. When fluids are included, it weighs in at 785 lbs (356 kg), making it easy to understand why it requires substantial torque to accelerate. Although Harley hasn’t released any performance stats, it is expected to be exceedingly fast.
No performance motorcycle would be complete without state-of-the-art suspension, and the Road Glide RR delivers. Premium Öhlins suspension has been fitted front and rear, and it’s fully adjustable. Additionally, a plethora of lightweight carbon fiber components has been included to help justify the steep pricing. A Rockford Fosgate audio system rounds out the premium features.
Exclusivity Comes with a Cost
If you’re fortunate (or perhaps unfortunate, depending on your viewpoint) enough to have the funds, be aware that only 131 units of the 2025 CVO Road Glide RR will be produced, all intended for the U.S. market. If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a race-inspired touring motorcycle priced like a high-performance sports car… this is your chance. Just remember to consider a second mortgage to cover it.
Motörhead presents the unmistakable ‘Speedfreak’ blend—a coffee experience that is the loudest, fastest, and heaviest you will ever encounter. This bold-bodied, paint-peeling, face-ripper showcases notes of Dark Chocolate, Caramel, and Cocoa, perfectly crafted to energize your day (to be honest, there’s a slight nuttiness with a surprising ‘fruit kick’!). If you’re built for speed, hop on board!
Concept Cafes expresses “We’re simply thrilled to play a modest role in the legendary Motörhead narrative and to share a truly delicious coffee experience with fans in the Motörheadworld! The creation of ‘Speedfreak’ coffee originated when someone (involved in the project) spontaneously uttered a description, and from there the story began to unfold almost effortlessly. The ‘Speedfreak’ epic spins a wild tale of the mighty Motörhead launching a custom ’75 Chevy Big-Block hot rod engine into the great unknown, only to resurface as the colossal ‘Speedfreak’ titan 50 years later, powered by coffee beans of mysterious extraterrestrial origins, and driven by the earth-shattering echoes from Lemmy’s iconic ‘Murder One’ amp stack. Motörhead’s ‘Speedfreak’ coffee represents more than just a cup of coffee; it’s a lifestyle of full-throttle adventure. If it has wheels or involves movement, ‘Speedfreak’ will certainly burn it out!”
Concept Cafes/Motörhead Speedfreak Daytona Bike Week Pop-up Events:
Bobby Caughron is a music journalist and Editor-In-Chief for XS ROCK. His journey as a dedicated fan of hard rock and metal music began in childhood with KISS, and he remains an enthusiastic advocate of the 80s metal scene while continually exploring and writing about new music across all rock genres today.
HARLEY-Davidson is set to introduce a new line of smaller cruiser motorcycles aimed at attracting a broader audience.
The company intends to leverage the success it has found with sub-500cc models in India, China, and Australia.
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What will the new bike look like? Harley-Davidson plans to spend more on developing entry-level motorcycles
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Harley-Davidson boss Jochen Zeitz is pushing ahead with plans to attract new buyers across the world
Harley-Davidson CEO Jochen Zeitz announced late in 2024 that the company planned to boost investment in entry-level motorcycles.
This announcement is likely to be welcomed by potential customers who have longed to own a classic Harley but may be deterred by their large size.
A few months back, enthusiasts on Reddit debated what the perfect entry-level bike should be, with one user cautioning, “Honestly, there isn’t a great Harley for beginners.”
The beloved brand currently offers three sub-500cc models in other regions, as noted by Topspeed.
READ MORE ON HARLEY-DAVIDSON
The X 440 was launched in India in 2023 through a licensing agreement between Harley-Davidson and Hero MotoCorp for a co-developed premium motorcycle.
Another collaboration with QJMotor has resulted in the introduction of the X 350 and X 500 available in China, Southeast Asia, and Australia.
However, Topspeed points out that “Neither of these has made their way to the West, with the exception of the X 350, which is used as part of Harley’s Rider’s Academy program in the U.S.
“Thus, it’s clear that a small Harley-Davidson bike with a global focus would significantly aid the brand in attracting a wider customer base.
“Additionally, the cruiser segment holds vast unrealized potential today.”
Topspeed suggests that many current small cruiser models available in the United States provide bikers with a “non-authentic experience, often featuring engines from sports bikes or ADV with limited cruiser character.”
Harley-Davidson riders highlight a major ‘oversight’ by the brand as stocks plummet and dealerships shut down
Entry-level cruiser options presently on the market include the Kawasaki Eliminator 500, Honda Rebel 500, Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650, and the CFMoto 450CL-C.
The automotive outlet anticipates “high expectations” for Harley-Davidson’s forthcoming entry-level addition.
This is particularly relevant as Hero MotoCorp announced in January its plans to widen its partnership with Harley-Davidson.
Hero MotoCorp is recognized as one of the largest motorcycle and scooter manufacturers globally.
The firm stated: “We have extended our partnership with Harley-Davidson to develop new variants of the Harley-Davidson X440 and to create a new motorcycle for both domestic and select international markets.”
What new and refreshed Harley-Davidson motorcycles can we expect for 2025?
The lineup of all-new 2025 models includes:
The Street Glide Ultra for extensive touring and the Pan America 1250 ST versatile adventure sport motorcycle.
Harley-Davidson has also upgraded six classic Cruiser models for 2025: the Low Rider S; Low Rider ST; Breakout; Heritage Classic; Fat Boy; and Street Bob.
The brand’s Sportster S has also received enhancements.
A series of limited-edition Custom Vehicle Operation (CVO) motorcycles includes four models: CVO Street Glide; CVO Road Glide; CVO Road Glide ST; and CVO Pan America.
The motorcycle manufacturer stated that these new models complete the 2025 lineup for Harley-Davidson’s Grand American Touring, Cruiser, Sport, Adventure Touring, and Trike motorcycles.
It’s believed that Harley-Davidson could effectively target Western markets, while Hero MotoCorp could produce bikes for the American brand, helping to maintain low costs.
The company is currently developing a Nightster 440, a name already trademarked by both Harley-Davidson and Hero MotoCorp in India.
REVENUE DECLINE
The new initiatives surface as the brand looks to recover from disappointing financial results in 2024, marking the second consecutive year of decline.
In the fourth quarter, Harley-Davidson’s global motorcycle shipments fell by 53 percent compared to the prior year.
Revenue was down 47 percent, partly due to reduced sales volume, as stated by Jochen Zeitz, the CEO.
The company anticipates another challenging year in 2025 after closing several dealerships to cut costs.
Nevertheless, Zeitz is optimistic that the iconic brand will persevere.
There are over 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships across the United States.
However, numerous dealershipswere closedfor various reasons throughout 2024.
However, some bikers expressed concerns over the hefty pricing.
Harley-Davidson has been advised by fans to lower motorcycle prices in order to remain competitive in the U.S. market.
“Harley will be outta business because regular middle class won’t be able to afford them,” one individual cautioned on social media.
The century-old American brand has been steadily losing market share in the U.S. amid declining retail sales.
Zeitz mentioned back in 2021 that he aimed to broaden the brand’s appeal beyond just middle-aged and wealthy riders.
The U.S. Sun recently reported on upcoming Harley-Davidson models anticipated to launch in 2026.
The all-electric LiveWire division of Harley-Davidson, developed in collaboration with Taiwanese scooter manufacturer KYMCO, will introduce a new series of high-performance maxi-scooters.
The company aims to commence shipping these scooters in the first half of 2026, with plans for global distribution.
The U.S. Sun has reached out to Harley-Davidson for comments regarding its ambitions for new entry-level motorcycles.
Harley Davidson has unveiled the Pan America 1250 ST, a sportier version aimed at road enthusiasts.
Harley Davidson has introduced the Pan America ST, signaling its upcoming release.
Harley Davidson is enhancing the Pan America lineup with the new Pan America 1250 ST, designed for a sportier, road-focused experience while maintaining the same engine. Modifications have been made for better on-road capabilities.
The bike features lower suspension, smaller 17-inch wheels fitted with Michelin Scorcher Sport Tires, a reduced seat height, a lighter exhaust system, and a bi-directional quick-shifter. Some protective elements have been removed, including the radiator shroud and knuckle guards.
The engine remains the robust 1,250cc V-Twin liquid-cooled unit generating 150 bhp and 127 Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch.
The Pan America ST is tailored for road performance.
On the features front, it boasts a 6.8-inch TFT dashboard with touchscreen functionality, featuring compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Riders can select from five riding modes: Road, Sport, Rain, and two customizable modes. Additional electronic features include cornering ABS, wheelie control, cruise control, and TPMS, along with an adaptive ride height that lowers the bike for easier ground reach when stopped.
Other specifications include a Showa mono-shock at the rear and Brembo mono-block calipers at the front. The motorcycle will come in three color options: Grey, Black, and Red. The pricing is yet to be announced, but it is anticipated to be slightly less than the Pan America 1250 Special, estimated at about Rs 22 lakh (ex-showroom), which is around Rs 2.5 lakh cheaper than the full-tilt adventure variant.
Tauseef Zia
Tauseef, with roots in performance tuning, has had a lifelong passion for all things automotive. When he’s not writing about vehicles, he’s often found working on cars and bikes or capturing their essence in photos as he drives around the city.
On January 24, 2025, HARLEY-DAVIDSON unveiled its newly designed and updated motorcycles for the 2025 model year. Among the exciting additions to this diverse lineup are the fully equipped Street Glide® Ultra for long-distance touring and the all-terrain Pan America® 1250 ST adventure sport motorcycle.
The 2025 Harley-Davidson® Cruiser motorcycle lineup features six models with notably improved performance and technological advancements. The powerful Sportster® S model has received a suspension upgrade for enhanced comfort. The limited-production Custom Vehicle Operation™ (CVO™) series includes three models and showcases the most coveted collection of motorcycles ever presented by Harley-Davidson.
These new Harley-Davidson® bikes complete the comprehensive 2025 collection of Grand American Touring, Cruiser, Sport, and Adventure Touring motorcycles, all showcased on H-D.comand available through licensed Harley-Davidson® dealers around the world.
NEW 2025 Cruiser Models
The revitalized 2025 Cruiser collection introduces six unique motorcycles, each enhanced with innovative technology, improved performance, and updated aesthetics. Every Cruiser model now comes equipped with a new Milwaukee-Eight® 117 powertrain and advanced technological features, utilizing the Harley Davidson® Softail® chassis with a concealed mono-shock rear suspension. The 2025 Cruiser lineup encompasses the following models, highlighting distinct stylistic identities: Low Rider® S, Low Rider® ST, Breakout®, Heritage Classic, Fat Boy®, and Street Bob®.
NEW 2025 Street Glide® Ultra Model
The call of the open highway awaits. The new Street Glide® Ultra model enhances the experience of long-distance touring. This latest edition fuses comfort, technology, performance, and design elements featured in the 2024 model, while integrating new features to facilitate long-haul travel for two, catering to riders craving freedom and adventure. This model is the most competent standard production Grand American Touring motorcycle from Harley-Davidson.
NEW 2025 Pan America® 1250 ST Model
The Pan America® 1250 ST model is a versatile adventure sport motorcycle capable of serving as a practical daily commuter, a thrilling backroad performer, and a competent weekend touring companion. It is engineered to attract riders transitioning from sport bikes or streetfighters towards a nimble bike that excels in comfort and extended travel capabilities. The Pan America 1250 ST model features a commanding upright riding position, the adaptable power of the liquid-cooled Revolution® Max 1250 engine, a 17” front wheel, and premium suspension and braking features.
NEW Sportster® S Model
Featuring newly enhanced suspension, the Harley-Davidson® Sportster® S model promises an exhilarating ride characterized by immediate torque delivery for a thrilling burst of speed and excitement. Its lightweight build, advanced features, and striking design cater to both experienced riders and newcomers eager to stand out on a motorcycle that breaks away from conventional styling norms. The newly adjusted front and rear suspension provides a 60 percent increase in rear wheel travel without compromising seat height, enhancing comfort on various road surfaces. Both suspension types are fully adjustable for compression/rebound damping and preload.
NEW 2025 Harley-Davidson® Custom Vehicle Operation™ Models
In its 26th annual edition, Harley-Davidson® CVO™ models bring forth three super-premium, limited-production motorcycles that make a bold statement of power and luxury, representing the pinnacle of Harley-Davidson’s style and craftsmanship, complete with new finishes and design features for 2025.
CVO™ Street Glide® and CVO™ Road Glide® models take design, technology, and performance to new heights, meeting the demands of discerning bagger riders.
CVO™ Road Glide® ST model, drawing inspiration from the Screamin’ Eagle® Factory Team Road Glide® bikes that compete in the MotoAmerica® Mission Foods King of the Baggers championship, merges an exclusive Milwaukee-Eight® 121 H.O. engine with high-performance components and meticulous custom detail, crafting a sophisticated, quick, and powerful bagger.
The availability, timing, variants, colors, specifications, and pricing may differ by market. Customers are encouraged to reach out to their local H-D dealerships for further information.
Today, we cut through the fog of cheese hangover that accompanies end-of-year festivities with a shocking deluge of to-do’s about the industry:
KTM leaving MotoGP, and they’ll be gone by 2026
Despite Suzuki having already left the Grand Prix circuit, their President has hinted at another sportbike range; could this be the return of the reigning GSX-R?
Europe is finally getting a bagger racing cup… but this one hasn’t got anything to do with MotoAmerica or MotoGP.
Yamaha’s made their newest motorcycle concept in commemoration of Netflix’s hit sci-fi series, “Tokyo Override.”
Let’s sart with Team Orange’s move to save millions by leaving their MotoGP paddock.
KTM to Exit from MotoGP After 2025
A view of a KTM racer. Media sourced from KTM.
Move to Save Team Orange Nearly $48 Million
KTM is in a state of restructuring, and this recent update has proven the gravity of KTM’s current situation.
For those of you who haven’t been keeping abreast of happenings at Team Orange headquarters, here’s a super short list of KTM’s recent movement (via a brilliant run-down by Jamie Elvidge at ADVPulse):
On November 29, Pierer Mobility (KTM Group) voluntarily entered insolvency proceedings with more than $3 billion USD in liabilities brought to the table.
Out of 60 subsidiaries, KTM Group is only continuing payments to two main branches: KTM Forschungs & Entwicklungs GmbH and KTM Components GmbH (the latter includes motorcycles, thank heavens).
Due to the above, KTM’s majority stake in MV Agusta is now up for sale.
A production freeze is in effect until the end of February, with KTM, Huaqvarna and GasGas motorcycles sold off in the meantime.
KTM/Pierer is on the hunt for investors to keep things running, and they may very well have one to bring to the next hearing.
Pierer has enough money to keep the company going until the next deadline, January 24th, in 22 days.
The residuals accompanying restructuring a holding company like Pierer are complex, to say the least – but, as always, there’s one element of our industry that will always save the day: Money.
In the interest of saving funds, a report from Der Standard tells us that KTM will be cutting costs in the racing department. This news begins with a report made after a first meeting between KTM and its creditors at the Regional Court of Ried im Innkreis; there, Alpenlandischer Kreditorenverband (AKV) was quoted to have said the following:
“To reduce costs, [KTM’s] withdrawal of MotoGP/Moto3/Moto2 is planned…”
In fine form (and very shortly after the above quote was recorded), KTM made their own statement that they would continue to race for 2025:
“Today marks an important day for KTM with the confirmation of our restructuring proceedings. This milestone secures our plan moving forward, and we are proud to confirm that motorsport remains an integral part of this restructuring plan.
“KTM stands firmly committed to motorsport. We repeat our statement for 2025: We will continue to race in MotoGP!”
There’s a detailed look at KTM’s departure, including how much the company would be saving in leaving after present-day contracts ended in 2026:
“From the 2026 season, KTM also wants to say goodbye to motorsport, specifically to the road racing series MotoGP, Moto3 and Moto2.
The contracts of the drivers are limited to two years, and because the KTM management expects “significant PR damage” in the event of early termination, they do not want to leave until 2026; the annual savings would be €46 million (euros).”
Apparently, KTM spent $208 million on R&D in 2023, with “overall motorsports activity spending at approximately $98.8 million.” This figure is quite high for a motorcycle brand, and as such, KTM/Pierer will be able to save a pretty penny.
Additional impact of the company’s insolvency proceedings are to include a further reduction in employees from the original early resignations. Between January and February, 391 workers will cut and 83% of the company’s workforce will be reduced to 30-hour weeks, the latter possibly being extended into March.
We’ll keep you updated on all happenings re. The fated Haus of Mattighofen, so stay tuned.
What do you think is going to happen to KTM motorcycles?
Rumor Has It: Suzuki’s Getting a New Sportbike Lineup for 2025
A view of Suzuki’s President. Media sourced from Suzuki.
President Hints at Incubating Range to MCN
Gixxer bois beware: Suzuki’s bolstered their labs for a sportbike range debut, and apparently, a GSX-R revival isn’t out of the cards.
To recap, Suzuki’s famed GSX-R lineup was pulled from Europe with the update to Euro5+ compliance, the most recent removal having been the GSX-R1000.
In an exclusive interview with MCN, Toshihiro Suzuki – the current President of Suzuki Motor Corporation – imparted that the Company was working on something big, and likely to be debuted at Milan’s Expo in the Fall.
“We cannot tell you the detail, but we think it’s important to bring supersport motorcycles to the market, adapting to the new regulations. We think it’s important, because it’s Suzuki’s heritage.
…Please enjoy the next EICMA.”
– Toshihiro Suzuki, President, Suzuki Motor Corporation (MCN)
Today, the move to create a new sportbike segment begs the question: Where will these models sit compared to the big-wig giants of the supersport community?
Of course, news of a sportbike lineup also brings forward questions of whether or not Suzuki si considering returning to racing; to this, the answer seems a definite “no:”
“The most important thing, we think, is to bring motorcycles to the customers, by meeting all the regulations.
Of course, racing is important, but we prioritise bringing motorcycles for customers – including considering carbon neutrality.”
– Toshihiro Suzuki, President, Suzuki Motor Corporation (MCN)
What do you think? Will Suzuki make a reimagined GSX-R lineup, or will they bring something more sustainable to the table, per their previous focus on carbon neutrality?
Europe Establishes New Bagger Racing European Cup
Rispoli on a racing bagger. Media sourced from Motorcycle Sports.
…Supported by FIM EU, Zero Ties to Dorna/MotoAmerica
Everybody loves a neck-and-neck circuit brawl, and bagger racing has certainly brought “bigger is better” to the grid in a way that is fresh, exciting and, at times, downright ludicrous.
The EU wants one, and according to Lewis Duncan’s article on Crash, they’re getting one for the new season.
Here’s what we know so far about the Bagger Racing European Cup:
The FIM Europe-sanctioned series is bring brought to the EU by former World Superbike and MotoGP rider Ruben Xaus, a Bagger Racing League champ in his own right.
He series will be “open to any machinery “that can be equipped with bags on the market.”
Xaus’s efforts are supported by the Andorran Federation
The series will consist of two races for each round on Saturday and Sunday, “preceded by free practice and official sessions that will define the starting grid.”
FIM Europe was even so polite as to include a list of motorcycles applicable for this new Bagger Racing European Cup:
Harley Davidson Street Glide
Harley Davidson Road Glide
Harley Davidson Road King
Harley Davidson Ultra
BMW R18
Honda Goldwing
Kawasaki VN Voyager
Suzuki Intruder
Yamaha Star Cruiser
Moto Guzzi MGX 21
Moto Guzzi California
Triumph Rocket
Ducati Diavel V2
WYCHE Motorcycle
Naturally, Xaus is excited about the residual partnerships and success of the series – but more importantly, he’s keen on ensuring everybody has a good time:
“I found fertile ground for this project in FIM Europe, which immediately embraced it with enthusiasm. I am convinced that this championship can be an added value for the events in which it will be hosted, raising the level of entertainment and interest of the same.
We are in the process of defining the calendar, which will be made official within a few days, but will include the main European countries. The regulation will also be simple and open to all.
We want the riders registered for the championship to have fun and have fun”.
– Ruben Xaus, BRL champ and MotoGP racer (FIM Europe)
FIM Europe’s Secretary General concurs:
“I am always very satisfied when we manage to add a new title to our sporting offering. Adding a new title is an indicator of health for our world and also indicates that there is confidence in what FIM Europe can offer.
…The Baggers will offer a wide range of riders, from young to older, the opportunity to compete in a safe and dynamic environment that, thanks to the new Promoter, will also offer attractive entertainment to accompany the race.”
– Alessandro Sambuco, FIM Europe Secretary General (FIM Europe)
Are you excited to see the birth of the Bagger Racing European Cup?
Yamaha Shows Off Netflix Series “Tokyo Override” Motorcycle Concept
“Y/AI” Includes Glow-In-The-Dark Wheels and AI Tech
A new Netflix show challenges the perks and cons of an AI-assisted life, and the creators called Yamaha to borrow some of their bikes for the task.
Naturally, Yamaha—known for creating insane concepts like the Motoroid 2, a bike that recognizes its rider—decided the show needed something extra: A neoteric machine to fit the show’s saturated, futuristic streets.
According to The US Sun, the bike to represent moto-kind in “Tokyo Override” is a brainchild of two of Yamaha’s iconic models. Merging aesthetics of the YZF-R1 supersport with elements of their VMAX muscle cruiser, Team Blue combined elements of the two models with a good shake of minimalism to solidify into a thinned-out skeleton with glow-in-the-dark wheels.
Oh, and per the plot of “Tokyo Override,” the motorcycle supposedly runs on AI tech.
For those of you worried about the grunt box, don’t worry; Yamaha hid the engine of this concept in the bike’s bridge, making for a seriously lean silhouette. Cafe racer-style handlebars dip below the bike’s head, while the “tank” area has been raised to meet the headlight “antennae.”
For the record, Yamaha’s “Y/AI” is a full-scale concept model that got some air time at the Motor Expo 2024 in Bangkok, eight days after “Tokyo Override”’s debut on November 21st.
Here’s what a member of Yamaha’s Design Group has to say about the collaboration for the creation of “Y/AI:”
“It’s not just about having fun imagining what the future might be like, but about thinking about what it will be like in 5 years, 10 years, and so on, and creating a timeline all the way to 100 years from now. It was very stimulating and interesting to use a method where we first created the world and then put things into it, rather than doing it model-first.
‘Jin-Ki Kanno’ is an important philosophy that our company upholds, and the word “contrast,” which is very important in design, and the idea of clearly separating the courageous and the inorganic, are all reflected in this model.
We incorporated the ‘Jin-Ki Kanno’ of the future and the “contrast” of the future into the design of this model.”
