Etc.
etc.
SPECIAL SUZUKIS
One of the benefits of winning four AMA Superbike titles? Your own replica model! The Mat Mladin Replica Edition ($10,799) is based on the current GSX-R1000 and features sponsor decals and a signed gas tank. Suzuki is also offering a Hayabusa 1300 Limited ($10,999), with red paint, a black frame and polished wheel accents, and an Intruder Volusia Limited ($6899) that boasts a flamed gas tank, studded seat and custom emblem.
RIDERS WANTED
Okay, cash-in those frequent-flyer miles and come ride with the editors. Cycle World is co-sponsoring three sport-tours in 2004, the first to sunny Spain and the Grand Prix at Jerez, April 24-May 4. If stateside is more your gig, join us for the inaugural “Great American Rides” tour through the best of Colorado and New Mexico, May 28-June 7. Then we’re Down Under-bound (no vegemite sandwiches, promise) for the Australian GR October 8-21. For info on the Grand Prix tours, contact Edelweiss at 800/507-4459; www.edelweissbiketravel.com. To book the Great American Ride, contact Lotus Tours at 312/951 -0031 ; www.lotustours.com.
BALANCING ACT
For 35 years, the American Trials Association’s El Trial de España has served as a fundraiser to give America’s best trials riders the opportunity to represent the U.S. in the International Trials des Nations. Maintaining that tradition, this year’s event will be held at MotoAdventure’s private riding area near Temecula, California, on May 22-23, one week after Round 2 of the 2004 AMA National Indoor Trials Series in nearby Costa Mesa. For more information, log on to www.atatrials.com.
ART OF THE JACKET?
The Phoenix Art Museum’s upcoming exhibit, “Motorcycle Jacket,” is further proof that motorcycling has moved from counterculture to mainstream. No bikergear demo, its intention is to illustrate how two-wheel-oriented apparel has influenced modern fashion designers. The show opens April 24 and runs through August 29. For hours and directions, go to www.phxart.org.
BED, NO BATH
Honda is building a pickup—actually a Sport Utility Truck (SUT). Slated for production in Canada in 2005, the VTEC V-Six-powered, five-seat, fourdoor vehicle made its debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit this past January. A 5-foot-long cargo bed features integrated lighting, speakers and tiedown straps. Pared-down rear wheel arches maximize bike-hauling abilities.
RATES FOR RIDERS
American Collectors Insurance, the nation’s leading provider of classiccar insurance, also insures collectible motorcycles. For a quote, simply log on to www.americancollectors.com, go to “instant quote,” click on “motorcycle” and follow the five-step procedure. To qualify, annual mileage should not exceed 2500 miles, and the to-be-insured machine should be kept in a closed, locked garage when not being ridden.
SCOOTERING REDEFINED?
Germany’s Sachs has been all but invisible since the debut of its V-Twin Beast (CW, December, 2000). Now, however, comes word of an edgy new scooter: the bare-bones MadAss. As narrow and bereft of bodywork as its show-stopping predecessor, the smallwheeled machine displaces 50cc from an air-cooled four-stroke Single and is equipped with disc brakes front and rear. A 2004 release is planned.
