Features

Dec. 22, 2008 – Motorcycle Digest

Japanese motorcycle exports to the U.S. decreases slightly

Japanese motorcycle manufacturers are exporting more 125cc-250cc new motorcycles into the United States compared to a year ago.
Metric manufacturers brought in 8,677 such bikes into the United States in October, a 37 percent increase over the year-ago period.
The number of new motorcycles brought into the United States with 250cc or larger engines have decreased 5.7 percent compared to October 2007.
Overall, Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki and Kawasaki exported slightly fewer new bikes to the United States in October compared to a year ago.
The metric manufacturers’ motorcycle exports to Canada, however, rose from the year-ago period, according to Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA) data.
Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki and Kawasaki exported 42,579 motorcycles in October to the United States, a 2.4 percent decline from a year ago.
The OEMs exported 4,033 bikes to Canada, a 12 percent increase from October of 2007.
Overall, JAMA members built 21 percent fewer motorcycles this October compared to the year-ago month.

Heightened interest causes U.S. debut of Harley’s XR1200

Inspired by the Harley-Davidson XR-750, the XR1200 was going to be launched only in European markets in April. Due to the high demand, it’ll now be launched in all markets, including the U.S, the OEM reported.
The XR1200 was built for dirt track racing with the help of racers Scott Parker and Rich King.
“The XR1200 is an exciting motorcycle with an aggressive attitude,” Bill Davidson, H-D’s vice president of core customer marketing, said in the release. “This bike will provide the performance and distinct style demanded by uncompromising riders. In fact, hundreds of XR1200s were ordered by enthusiastic customers before we really even promoted it.”
The bike is available in vivid black, mirage orange pearl and pewter denim colors. The H-D hands-free Smart Security System is optional in North America. North American MSRP is $10,799 U.S.

Vectrix redesigns electric scooter for 2009

Vectrix Corp., manufacturer of all-electric two-wheel vehicles, debuted its redesigned 2009 Vx-1. It has new graphics in four colors and a new line of accessories, according to a company press release.
The vehicle will be available in dealerships by January, and it retails for $10,495.
Vectrix CEO Mike Boyle stated, “Vectrix appeals to men and women of all ages, and our new model and accessories make the Vx-1 available to more people who are looking for good, clean fun.”
Vextrix also plans to introduce two new models in the spring/summer 2009, the Vx-1e and Vx-2. psb

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