Motorcycle Misadventures

And Then Came Bronsen 1969: The Quintessential RoadTrip on DVD

How's this for the quintessential roadtrip? It begins in 1969 San Francisco, when you apparently could motorcycle on Ocean Beach. Don't we wish! But that diner on the cliff? It's still there. And the epic road trip? Yep. We do it all the time. San Francisco to Highway 1 south through San Mateo, Santa Cruz, to Monterey County with its famous towns of Monterey, Carmel, and Big Sur. And in this story, far beyond. And his gear? Well, though it's not AGATT, maybe it can remind us that we really don't need all that stuff we think we need to get away.

Harley-Davidson Releases the XR1200 in the U.S.A.

The Harley-Davidson XR1200 was just released in the U.S. Inspired by the legendary XR750, the XR1200 is the newest member of the Sportster family, and comes to the U.S. following its Europe-only release back in April. H-D tells me that "the XR750 was the most dominating American dirt track racing motorcycle of all-time, earning the Number One plate in an unprecedented 26 AMA flat-track seasons. In fact, as a tribute to the XR750, there is a pre-sale of only 750 XR1200 models from 12/1 – 12/15." Contact your local dealer.

H-D says that significant design influences were drawn from the XR750 bikes so successful in dirt track racing over the last 30 years, with the addition of technical innovation to provide potent street performance and handling. Harley-Davidson dirt track racing legends Scott Parker and Rich King participated in the XR1200 development, along with European GP racing champion Adrien Morillas.

The 1200cc Evolution V-Twin cranks out 90 hp with high torque. Rubber mounted to a new frame with a cast aluminum swingarm, the engine delivers exhilarating performance and responsive handling with less vibration. A unique upswept, high-volume 2-1-2 straight shot exhaust system includes dual mufflers and is finished in satin chrome.  

A sport-tuned Showa® suspension with inverted 43 mm front forks and twin preload adjustable shocks combines with lightweight black cast three-spoke wheels to make the XR1200 ride and corner with feeling. Specially designed Dunlop® Qualifier D209 tires connect the rider to the road, while Nissin® four-piston calipers and large dual disc front brakes provide stopping power.

If you can't get to your dealer, check out the bike on the special XR1200 website.