2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T Review

   2014 HARLEY-DAVIDSON SUPERLOW 1200T REVIEW

The 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T is a more muscular, touring-oriented version of the SuperLow 883, with a pair of lockable saddlebags, a removable Switchback-style windshield, a more comfortable seat, as well as available antitheft alarm and keyless start. It revives an idea dropped more than 50 years ago: building a Sportster for light touring.

The clean looks of the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T will appeal to travel enthusiasts and devil-may-care riders alike. Dressed in Vivid Black, Candy Orange, or a Birch White/Midnight Pearl combination, it definitely captures attention and the imagination. A number of chrome accents add contrast while making this bike look more expensive than it really is. 


Revised ergonomics shape the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T
Derived from the XL 1200 Custom, the new 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T is a traditional cruiser with a wide handlebar that puts the rider's hands close to his or her chest, and a large 17L fuel tank that provides fairly decent wind protection.

The foot pegs are wider and 7cm farther up front than those on the SuperLow 883 (but not as far as on the XL 1200 Custom), ensuring good footing and keeping the legs relaxed. Meanwhile, the low seat height (702 mm) means all riders can easily put both feet on the ground at idle. Furthermore, the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T is 75kg lighter than a Road King to help inexperienced riders through low-speed manoeuvres, especially with a passenger and luggage on board.

Derived from the XL 1200 Custom, the new 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T is a traditional cruiser. (Photo: France Ouellet)

Plenty of power for the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T
The 1,202cc OHV engine that powers the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T comes alive with a syncopated shake and typical Harley rumble that's a bit muffled by the stock exhaust. Changing gears produces a crisp sound in true American fashion, while the friendly clutch lever makes the operation easy. 

Around town or on the highway, the V-twin is flexible enough to accelerate from low revs without screaming and easily push the touring bike up to the electronic rev limiter. It even plays along when you want to have fun on small, winding roads. The 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T also achieves a surprising mix of agility and stability ? the sparks from the foot pegs will tell you when you've reached the limit in corners. 

As expected, the upright windshield does a great job under 100 km/h, but taller riders will feel some turbulence around the head beyond that. Regardless, riding the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T over long distances is always a treat when mastered. 

The 1,202cc OHV engine that powers the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T comes alive with a syncopated shake and typical Harley rumble that's a bit muffled by the stock exhaust. (Photo: France Ouellet)

ABS is key with the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T
A single 292mm front disc with dual-piston calliper combines with a 260mm rear disc to stop the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T in a satisfyingly short time. ABS proves fairly transparent and effective, which is very important on a touring motorcycle since you must sometimes ride under the rain and/or in unfamiliar surroundings. 

Slammed cruisers often feel dry and harsh, but the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T has easily accessible preload settings so you can adjust the firmness of the suspension for solo or two-up riding. The better sculpted, more generously padded seat partly makes up for the lack of wheel travel.

A single 292mm front disc with dual-piston calliper combines with a 260mm rear disc to stop the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T in a satisfyingly short time. (Photo: France Ouellet)

Summing up the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T
Harley-Davidson has packed many big touring features into a small, lightweight, and easy-handling machine. And at $14,499, the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T is a great way to travel in style without having to mortgage the house. 

Pros

• Engine is perfectly suited to this type of bike
• Improved comfort all around
• Designed for small riders

Cons

• Turbulence around the head beyond 100 km/h
• Designed for small riders

Author: Motorcycle Scan Tools
Reference: Moto123

Harley-Davidson Amps Up Learning To Ride With Launch Of Harley-Davidson Riding Academy

  LEARNING TO RIDE WITH LAUNCH OF HARLEY-DAVIDSON RIDING ACADEMY

After Successfully Training More Than 350,000 New Riders Over 14 Years, Program Expands Globally with New Experiences,
New Motorcycle and New Name

MILWAUKEE, WI – April 27, 2014 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Pumping the adrenaline – by learning to ride a motorcycle – just got a lot cooler, not to mention more fun. For the first time ever, those dreaming of riding can now learn on a genuine Harley-Davidson® motorcycle.

Today, the company unveiled the new Harley-Davidson™ Riding Academy – the only national rider training program hosted by Harley-Davidson® dealerships and conducted on an all-new Harley-Davidson® motorcycle.

“For years we’ve been delivering a life-changing, freedom-inspiring training experience,” said Angela Thundercloud, Harley-Davidson Rider Training Manager. “Now, we’re taking rider training to a new level by incorporating a Harley-Davidson motorcycle that students will want to keep riding long after class is over.”

Designed to Instill Confidence
There is nothing like the independence of the open road. Since its inception in 2000, Harley-Davidson’s rider training program has successfully trained more than 350,000 new riders with a premium Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF)-approved rider training experience that guides students on their journey from the classroom to the street with an emphasis on building student confidence on their road to independence.

The Harley-Davidson Riding Academy’s New Rider Course provides nearly everything students need to take the first step on their motorcycle riding journey, including MSF-certified instructors, use of a motorcycle to learn on, and a minimum of 20 hours of combined classroom and range training with a guaranteed 6:1 student/instructor ratio. All students need to bring to class is appropriate riding gear.

Harley-Davidson Riding Academy students will learn to ride on the new Harley-Davidson Street™ 500 motorcycle. Its confidence-inspiring handling and agility, smooth powertrain and authentic Harley-Davidson Dark Custom styling not only appeal to young, urban riders around the world, but also make it an ideal vehicle for learning to ride.

“Instilling confidence is vital to preparing new riders to move from the classroom to the open road,” Thundercloud said. “We designed everything – the experience, the curriculum and the equipment – to inspire that needed confidence and empower new students to have a ton of fun learning to ride on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle.”

In many states, completion of a Harley-Davidson Riding Academy course can exempt riders from needing to take an additional road test before becoming licensed, and many insurance providers offer discounts to graduates.

Global Expansion
In addition to changes in the United States, where more than 180 Harley-Davidson dealers offer training courses, Harley-Davidson Riding Academy is expanding globally into Mexico, China and South Africa.

To learn more about Harley-Davidson Riding Academy, or to find a participating dealer, visit www.h-d.com/ridingacademy.

About Harley-Davidson Motor Company

Harley-Davidson Motor Company produces custom, cruiser and touring motorcycles and offers a complete line of Harley-Davidson^® motorcycle parts, accessories, riding gear and apparel, and general merchandise. For more information, visit Harley-Davidson’s website at www.h-d.com.

Author: Motorcycle Scan Tools
Reference: Motorsports

KYMCO USA to Showcase New Models at 2014 American International Motorcycle Expo

KYMCO NEW MODELS AT 2014 AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL MOTORCYCLE EXPO

IRVINE, CA – April 25, 2014 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – After a successful launch last year, the 2014 American International Motorcycle Expo (AIMExpo) announced that KYMCO USA will return as an OEM exhibitor at the second annual show October 16-19 in Orlando, Fla. KYMCO was a founding manufacturer exhibitor at the inaugural AIMExpo and, as part of its 50th anniversary celebration this year, the brand plans to expand its presence at the event.

KYMCO’s lineup of scooters, ATVs and UTVs were well received last October. The company received great exposure as a result of AIMExpo’s unique all-in-one platform, which allowed members of the industry, media and consumers to be exposed to the premium products KYMCO has to offer. As a result of that success, KYMCO has committed to showcasing its newest 2015 models at AIMExpo with a revamped exhibit space inside the Orange County Convention Center.

“We’re very pleased to have been a part of the AIMExpo debut and are excited to be returning for 2014,” said Rick Pawelka, Director of Marketing, KYMCO USA. “AIMExpo is the one show where powersports dealers, journalists and consumers get to see the latest vehicles, parts and accessories offered by their favorite suppliers and brands. We’re proud to be part of AIMExpo and the important role it is playing in the future success of the powersports industry in the USA.”

Demo ride of a KYMCO UXV 700i on track at AIMExpo Outdoors!

A focal point of KYMCO’s success at last year’s event was its presence at AIMExpo Outdoors! The event’s innovative outdoor space allowed attendees to demo both the brand’s on-road and off-road products, and it will once again be a hallmark of KYMCO’s efforts for 2014 as AIMExpo will serve as the first opportunity for consumers to ride the company’s new 2015 models.

KYMCO offers some of the finest products in the market, and by being part of AIMExpo last year the powersports marketplace was able to see that first hand,” said Larry Little, Vice President & General Manager, Marketplace Events Motorcycle Group. “We take pride in knowing AIMExpo offered KYMCO the opportunity to gain exposure and a new, positive, and proactive way, and we look forward to being part of their 50th anniversary celebration. We’re also thrilled that KYMCO has chosen AIMExpo as the event to give its customers the first opportunity to demo 2015 models.”

With nearly 300 exhibitors already committed to AIMExpo this year, the event continues to cement its place within the powersports marketplace. Exhibitor numbers grow every day and companies looking to take advantage of the AIMExpo platform should contact an AIMExpo Account Manager toll free at 855-MCShows (855-627-4697).

Be sure to stay tuned to the AIMExpoUSA.com website and keep up to date on the continued progress by visiting AIMExpo’s social media pages. “Like” the American International Motorcycle Expo on Facebook by visiting the AIMExpo page, and “Follow” on Twitter: @AIMExpo.

About American International Motorcycle Expo

The American International Motorcycle Expo’s (www.aimexpousa.com) purpose is to serve as the catalyst to bring together industry, press, dealers and consumers in a single arena that creates a grand stage for motorcycling in the U.S. and North America, and delivers an efficient and energetic market-timed expo platform for B2B and B2C in the motorcycle industry. AIMExpo is the single most important event of its type in the North American market and will have international impact within the motorcycling community.

About Marketplace Events

Marketplace Events creates vibrant expositions connecting enthusiasts with experts, products and services in dynamic face-to-face environments. The company produces 38 consumer shows in the home and garden category (27 in the US and 11 in Canada) as well as a Holiday Boutique in Kansas City and the American International Motorcycle Expo (AIMExpo), a new trade and consumer show for the motorcycle industry. AIMExpo is the first event to be produced by the company’s new Trade Show Division. The 40 combined events attract 15,000 exhibitors, 1.5 million attendees and another 1.7 million unique web visitors annually. From 15 offices, the 120-person staff produces some of the most successful and longest-running shows in North America, including market-leading home shows in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Washington, D.C., Orlando and Minneapolis–some of which have thrived in their markets for more than 75 years. www.marketplaceevents.com

Author: Motorcycle Scan Tools
Reference: Motorsports

Motorcycle Dealerships Encouraged to Register for Spring Giveaway

MOTORCYCLE DEALERSHIPS ENCOURAGED TO REGISTER FOR SPRING GIVEAWAY

IRVINE, CA – April 23, 2014 – (Motor Sports Newswire) -  Motorcycle retailers nationwide have the chance to see their customers win a total of nearly $30,000 in gift certificates and other prizes, thanks to the Revive Your Ride! Spring Giveaway, sponsored by the aftermarket members of the Motorcycle Industry Council. The twice-per-year promotion is entirely free for dealers, and entirely free for consumers to participate.

Wally Wilson, owner of Wheelsports, Inc. in Reynoldsburg, Ohio, admits he was a bit skeptical of a program that claimed to be entirely free for dealers and consumers, but he decided to give it a try by participating in last year’s Year-End Giveaway.

“I am so glad I decided to participate in the promotion, because my dealership had a $1,000 winner the first time.” Wilson said. “I figured there’s nothing better than one of my customers winning a gift certificate to my store; it’s a win for both of us. I was also impressed by the amount of engagement by my customers, as I was told we had more than 50 people register to win. I will certainly be passing out my dealership code to every customer that steps foot in my store during the spring promotion.”

Wally Wilson, owner of Wheelsports, Inc. in Reynoldsburg, Ohio, presents his customer, Jack Trace, with a $1,000 gift certificate to his dealership, courtesy of Revive Your Ride!, sponsored by the MIC aftermarket members.

The program was established with the goal of increasing showroom traffic for dealers, and in turn, boosting the potential for increased sales. During each promotion, two participating dealerships also have the chance to win a Revive Your Ride! Party Package that includes:

• Catering up to $1,000
• $200 for a DJ and/or decorations
• Eight $100 gift certificates as door prizes for dealership guests
• Two VIP passes to the American International Motorcycle Expo in Orlando, Fla., October 16-19th (includes two nights lodging at a Rosen property hotel in Orlando, $300 airfare voucher, $100 gift/meal card and more).

Phil Sudduth, owner of California Phil’s in Concordia, Kan., is also a firm believer in the program.

“I’ve had a $10,000 grand prize winner and several other prize winners since I started participating in 2010,” Sudduth said. “I really like the program and I try to get everyone that comes through my doors to sign up. Customers come in to get my dealership code, so I like the fact that the contest brings traffic into my dealership.”

Sudduth hangs fliers up in his store, sends out emails to his customers, posts on social media and even puts an ad in the local newspaper about the promotion. He said if he has a winner, he typically publishes the winner’s photo in the newspaper, too.

“Dealers are crazy if they don’t participate,” Sudduth said. “It’s an entirely free, feel-good program.”

View the list of 2013 Revive Your Ride! Year-End promotion winners here.

The Revive Your Ride! 2014 Spring Giveaway contest launched on April 15 and will run through June 15. Motorcycle retailers can learn more about the program and how to sign up for this free promotion by visiting mic.org and clicking on the Revive Your Ride! logo at the top right of the screen.

Retail customers can learn more about the program, the location of participating retailers, the prizes offered and how to enter by visiting ReviveYourRide.org or following @ReviveYourRide on Twitter.

The Motorcycle Industry Council exists to preserve, protect and promote motorcycling through government relations, communications and media relations, statistics and research, aftermarket programs, development of data communications standards, and activities surrounding technical and regulatory issues. As a not-for-profit, national industry association, the MIC seeks to support motorcyclists by representing manufacturers, distributors, dealers and retailers of motorcycles, scooters, ATVs, ROVs, motorcycle/ATV/ROV parts, accessories and related goods and services, and members of allied trades such as insurance, finance and investment companies, media companies and consultants.

The MIC is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., with a government relations office in metropolitan Washington, D.C. First called the MIC in 1970, the organization has been in operation since 1914. Visit the MIC at mic.org.

Author: Motorcycle Scan Tools
Reference: Motorsports

2014 LA Calendar Motorcycle Show Concours d’ Elegance & Calendar Girl Music Festival Moves to Malibu, CA

MOTO SHOW CONCOURS D’ ELEGANCE & CALENDAR GIRL MUSIC FESTIVAL MOVES

MALIBU, CA -  April 21, 2014 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The 23rd annual LA Calendar Motorcycle Show sponsored by Russ Brown Attorneys is pleased to announce that the American Cancer Society will be the 2014 Show’s designated charity recipient. Each year, the American Cancer Society funds a select group of researchers, doctors, and nurses – those who have presented the best ideas with the most potential – to pursue new avenues, as well as strengthen existing ones, in the fight against cancer. This month the Society announced its first set of new 2014 grantees, awarding a total of $42,899,000 to 103 scientists and health professionals, both to find a cures for the many types of cancers, and to support and care for the facilities that treat and care for cancer patients.

“Everyone knows of friends and loved family members, or possibly themselves who have been impacted by cancer”, explained Jim Gianatsis, producer of the LA Calendar Motorcycle Show and the Show’s themed FastDates.com Motorcycle PinUp Calendars. “I, myself, was cured of cancer 4 years ago, thanks to diagnostics, cures and surgeries, discovered by researchers funded by important charity organizations like the American Cancer Society. Motorcyclists are renown as a community for coming together to support important causes, and none is more important than curing the cancers which affect more people than any other disease. The LA Calendar Show will be giving $1 of each Spectator Admission purchased on-line at FastDates.com to the American Cancer Society.

The 2014 LA Calendar Motorcycle Show continues its now 23rd year tradition as the premier outdoor streetbike event in America with the Calendar Bike Building Championship & Concours d’ Elegance, top Celebrity Builders, selected Vendors and Exhibitors, and the live Calendar Girl Music Show. This year the Show moves to theMalibu Golf Course off Encinal Canyon Road, between Pacific Coast Highway 1 and Hwy 101, in the beautiful Santa Monica Mountains.

The Show always kicks off the world premier of next year’s new 2015 FastDates.comMotorcycle PinUp Calendars featuring the world’s top road race and custom motorcycles with the beautiful Calendar Kittens featured in the Calendars in attendance at the Show.

The 2014 LA Calendar Motorcycle Show & Concours d’ Elegance on Sunday July 20th is just $20 General Admission, and $40 VIP Admission includes an awesome Food Truck Lunch w/ Beverages from the famous Baby’s Badass Burgers and The Grilled Cheese. Event parking is free, with separate paved Motorcycle and Car Parking areas. Show capacity is limited and advance ticket purchase is suggested. The Malibu Golf Course is located at 901 Encinal Canyon Road. Malibu, CA 90265. Additional Information, Purchase Advance Tickets, Vendor and Bike Contest Registration is online at: www.FastDates.com/BIKESHOW.HTM

Author: Motorcycle Scan Tools
Reference: Motorsports

EPA acknowledges that ethanol damages engines

  EPA ACKNOWLEDGES THAT ETHANOL DAMAGES ENGINES

PICKERINGTON, OH – April 21, 2014 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has publicly acknowledged that ethanol in gasoline can damage internal combustion engines by increasing exhaust temperatures and indirectly causing component failures, the American Motorcyclist Association reports.

The EPA statements are found in a rule proposal issued by the Federal Trade Commission regarding a new label for pumps that supply fuel blends high in ethanol.

According to the EPA, “[e]thanol impacts motor vehicles in two primary ways. First … ethanol enleans the [air/fuel] ratio (increases the proportion of oxygen relative to hydrocarbons) which can lead to increased exhaust gas temperatures and potentially increase incremental deterioration of emission control hardware and performance over time, possibly causing catalyst failure. Second, ethanol can cause materials compatibility issues, which may lead to other component failures.

“In motorcycles and nonroad products [using E15 and higher ethanol blends], EPA raised engine-failure concerns from overheating.”

These EPA statements, contained in the FTC document, back the long-held position of the AMA.

“The American Motorcyclist Association has fought the distribution of E15 fuel blends in an effort to protect motorcycle and all-terrain vehicles from the damage that ethanol causes,” said Wayne Allard, AMA vice president for government relations. “Now the EPA acknowledges that ethanol itself is harmful to emissions hardware and other components on all motor vehicles. It is time for the federal government to pause, take a hard look at this product and change its entire approach to ethanol in fuels.”

E15 is a gasoline formulation that contains up to 15 percent ethanol by volume.

None of the estimated 22 million motorcycles and ATVs currently in operation can use fuels with blends higher than 10 percent ethanol. Doing so could void the manufacturer’s warranty, in addition to causing damage to the vehicle.

The AMA applauded the EPA’s decision in its proposed rule to roll back the requirement for wider distribution and use of E15 under its Renewable Fuel Standard.

The AMA also is concerned about the continued availability of E10 blends and E0 fuels — gasoline with zero ethanol content — if E15 is allowed to permeate the marketplace.

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com.

Author: Motorcycle Scan Tools
Reference: Motorsports

SEMA Market Research Reveals UTV Purchase Patterns

  SEMA MARKET RESEARCH REVEALS UTV PURCHASE PATTERNS

Did you know 82% of UTV owners have purchased or plan to purchase upgrades to their vehicle? This means more than 410,000 households in the United States buy UTV accessories with the average accessorizer spending $1,700 on these parts.

With growth in powersports and crossover into other automotive sectors, the UTV market offers potential for many SEMA members. In fact, SEMA research shows more than one-third of automotive accessory enthusiasts may own a powersports vehicle. Understanding these types of purchase patterns allows companies to more easily identify and reach buyers who are interested in their own products.

Learn more about your customers and crossover opportunities by reading SEMA’s “Powersports: UTV Accessorization” report. Members are invited to download a free copy atwww.sema.org/utvreport.

Author: Motorcycle Scan Tools
Reference: Sema.org

Polaris adds Wisconsin based Kolpin to its off-road vehicle line-up

POLARIS ADDS WISCONSIN BASED KOLPIN TO ITS OFF-ROAD VEHICLE LINE-UP

POLARIS Industries continues on the acquisition trail, buying Kolpin Outdoors, Inc., a privately owned, Wisconsin-based company that is best known for its off-road vehicle (ORV) accessories, and branded and private label powersports accessories and outdoor lifestyle products. This acquisition adds further to Polaris’ growing parts, garments and accessories (PG&A) business. “Acquiring Kolpin Outdoors, Inc. creates a multitude of growth opportunities for our PG&A business, which is a key contributor to Polaris’ top-line growth and profitability,” said Steve Eastman, Polaris’ Vice President of PG&A. “Kolpin is a trusted brand among ORV riders, hunters, outdoorsmen and landowners who value the quality and reliability Kolpin builds into their powersports accessories.

"Their line-up of exceptional products and deep consumer and retail relationships will help Polaris expand their aftermarket accessories portfolio and enhance their traditional and online distribution channels”.

Founded in 1943, Kolpin products will continue to be sold under the Kolpin and Cycle Country brands, with customised private label products available through its Premier O.E.M. business. Speaking for Kolpin, President and CEO Tom Lutes said that “it gives all of us at Kolpin great pride to become part of the Polaris family. Although different in size, we share many of the same values...small town roots, quality products, lifestyle brand focus and a rich heritage in product innovation”.

In 2013 Polaris posted sales of $3.8 billion. Polaris specialises in snowmobiles and off-road vehicles, and having established a presence in the heavyweight cruiser and touring motorcycle market with Victory, the company added the Indian Motorcycle brand two years ago and launched the first models in a new range at EICMA in November last year.

This isn't the company's first play on the utility off-road vehicle sector, having bought the French Aixam Mega business four years ago, and having made a play for the on-road small electric/hybrid powered vehicle industry with the acquisition of American "neighbourhood electric vehicle" (NEV) manufacturer Global Electric Motorcars (GEM), and Bourran, France-based specialist Goupil Industrie SA, a manufacturer of on-road, commercial electric vehicles. Other strategic investments by Polaris in recent years have included acquisition of the Klim apparel brand.

www.polaris.com

The MIC is to stage its annual meeting in Washington, D.C., on May 19-20, 2014. The decision to host their event in the US capital is designed to give its membership (which now includes dealers as well as motorcycle manufacturers and aftermarket vendors) the opportunity to join the MIC’s ongoing mission to maintain a high profile for motorcycle industry concerns.

BMW of North America has recalled 4,453 motorcycles and scooters to replace the side stand switch - models affected include C 600/650, F 700/800 and R 1200 variants. BMW said the problem was traced to a tooling change at the supplier, Toyo Jiann Tsang Electric Co. Ltd. in Taiwan.

The MIC has launched what it calls its 'MAX database', a "New Model Attribute Matrix" designed to help improve product compatibility by providing information that can help manufacturers improve product capability by compiling, into one database, model specifications for motorcycles, scooters, ATVs and ROVs. The database is said to include more than 40 attributes for nearly all models from leading brands dating back to 2004.

American Honda has had to recall some 7,000 2013 CB/CBR 500s for replacement of rocker arm shaft retaining bolts that may have been manufactured incorrectly, allowing them to loosen during engine operation.

Author: Motorcycle Scan Tools
Reference: IDN Moto Week