Etc.
etc.
DUCATI M620 CAPIREX
Celebrating its success in its inaugural MotoGP season, Ducati unveiled the M620i.e. “Capirex,” the nickname given to factory rider Loris Capirossi. Red paint, a white longitudinal stripe and Capirossi’s racing number complement fenders, sidepanels and rear cowling fabricated from carbon-fiber. A slipper clutch and a six-speed transmission are the only mechanical updates.
EFI FOR MINI SCOOTERS?
Honda has developed an ultra-compact fuel-injection system for use on fourstroke scooters displacing 50cc. The new design comprises just eight parts, compared to the 15 employed in a conventional PGM-FI unit on larger models. Enhanced fuel economy and reduced emissions are claimed.
LOGO LAUNCHED
This year, the AMA is celebrating more than just a birthday: It has a new logo and tagline—“Rights. Riding. Racing.” The intention is not just to update the association’s identity, but to better convey its mission to new and young riders, minorities and women
PARILLA, MV AGUSTA, RUMI...
The California Oil Museum’s new exhibit, “Giro d’ltalia: Rare Italian Racing Motorcycles from the 1950s,” features small-bore machines from the Guy Webster collection. For groups of 10 or larger, Webster himself will provide a guided tour. The exhibit is open through February 22. Admission is $2. For more information, log on to www.oilmuseum.net.
SHERCO STEPS UP
Spanish trials-bike-maker Sherco (iwww.sherco-moto.com) is aiming for off-roading’s mainstream with its 2004 Enduro 4.5L Built at a brandnew, enduro-only factory in Nimes, France, the bike is powered by a four-valve, sohc, liquid-cooled, fuelinjected, 448cc Single that features a gear primary, six-speed transmission and hydraulically actuated clutch. A steel frame (with detachable aluminum subframe) and an aluminum swingarm complement Paioli suspension, AJP disc brakes and Excel rims. Claimed dry weight is 240 pounds.
DUCATIS SING AT DAYTONA
If you think your Ducati makes music, then enter it in “Ducati Idol, Let Your Ducati Sing,” a motor-sound contest to be judged by the Desmodromiclub of Rome, Italy. Held in conjunction with the 2004 Daytona Bike Show and Gala, presented by Ducati Online and Ducati North America, the March 5 event will pay homage to the 900SS, one of the Bologna bike-maker’s most enduring models. More information is available at www.ducati.net.
GET AWAY WITH THE AMA
AMA Travel & Tours is your go-to for motorcycle-themed events, tours and vacations. On the horizon: Daytona Bike Week (March 1-6), Redwood Coast (April 26-May 4), Route 66 (May 17-30) and various rounds of the AMA Supercross series (January 10-May 3). Details can be found on the AMA’s website,
www.ama-cycle.org/travel.
