New Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade 2012

New Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade 2012:

Honda CBR1000RR

Among the new Fireblade in 2012 we find the new wheels and new suspension. The shock-type rear suspension with Rear Free Balance Cushion is a world first on a motorcycle built in series

Honda today unveiled the 2012 model year the CBR1000RR Fireblade, the edition of the famous superbike Wing of the House that celebrates the twenty years since the launch of the CBR900RR, the first historical model introduced in 1992.

The new Fireblade has been unveiled for the first time the European public simultaneously in two contexts racing world: the eleventh round of WorldSBK Championship in Imola, in Italy, and the 24 Hours of Le Mans, France, the fundamental event of Endurance World Championship.



To reveal the new Honda superbike racing fans of Jonathan Rea has been an official driver of the Castrol Honda Team in WorldSBK and John McGuinness, Honda TT LeMans forces Legends Team. Jonathan Rea, driver of the Castrol Honda Team WorldSBK, said: “I I feel like I grew up with the Fireblade. And ‘iconic motorcycle and in fact is an amazing feeling to be the person who revealed the latest version. It looks really fantastic and I look forward to putting our hands! ” John McGuinness, winner of 17 races at the Isle of Man TT: “I have a real soft spot for the Fireblade. Over the years I have driven in many different competitions and have won her many successes. In fact one can say that some of the most memorable achievements of my career, I got aboard the Fireblade, by the victories at the TT this year up to the World Endurance Championship. Unveiling the new model here at Le Mans is very exciting and I am honored to have been chosen to do so. It ‘great that the thousands of racing fans and fans of the Fireblade around the world can now see from the truth. ” Hirofumi Fukunaga, Large Project Leader of the CBR1000RR Fireblade 2012 said: “This model allows all supersport motorcycle enthusiasts, including the more experienced, to savor the joy of owning a CBR1000RR Fireblade, a bike that offers more fun in the conduct of sports and unprecedented driving pleasure both on the roads winding into the circuit. “

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Honda 700 V-twin engine new generation of dual-clutch

Honda 700 V-twin engine new generation of dual-clutch:

Honda 700 V-twin engine

The Japanese firm will present the new generation of EICMA motorcycle driven by a 700 cc twin-facing, also equipped with 6-speed dual-clutch. Ready also the new 4-stroke engine 125. Consumption records for all

Honda is preparing to present a family of three models, distinguished by a single “platform” (ugly term, usually referring to the world of cars, but there it is …), the first of which we know already: it is the motion Integra-scooters at EICMA 2010. And now that Honda returns as final, and most tourist configuration. The other two, for now, no one knows anything yet. The House then Tokyo has thought to create a series of vehicles and mid-size high-quality , manufactured according to different concepts to meet the needs of rapid movement of various types of users around the world, while still providing ease of driving, operating cost and a high respect for the environment.



Media characterized by a low center of gravity, therefore, easy to approach, with a high-torque engines, especially in the low to mid range: an engine, as is well known, parallel twin-cylinder liquid-cooled 700 cc (bore and stroke 73×80 mm ) logically powered PGM-FI electronic fuel injection combined with the second generation of sophisticated dual-clutch transmission with electronic control that began last year with the mighty VFR1200 DCT – first bike in the world to use such a solution – with the possibility of using a six-speed manual transmission. The DCT transmission ‘second generation’ , made ​​with the technology already appricate ATV vehicles, is smaller and lighter, and has a hydraulic circuit shortened by 40%, and a built-in linear solenoid the right crankcase cover, replacing the outer year. The software also has a new feature here, which further facilitates the guide, in practice, now the system is able to recognize – no matter the choice made ​​by the pilot – if you are driving in the city rather than a step mountains, and adjusting its response times, and optimizing fuel consumption. The new twin-cylinder Honda, SOHC 4-valve per cylinder, has thermal units tilted forward 62 °, 270 ° phased and has balancer to reduce vibration, which also drives the oil pump. Aspiration avviente through a single tube that serves both cylinders, split internally to allow the flow of power to serve the combustion chambers at different times, with the help of special dual intake camshaft profile. This sophisticated engine is mileage credited with a good 40% higher (according to the calculations of the designers) twins compared to maxi-scooters that currently exist: it is declared more than 27 km / liter (WMTC calculation mode, as usual, Honda), Very low unloading at the level of carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbon (HC) and nitrogen monoxide (NO), thanks to the work of the three way catalytic converter, exhaust manifold in the one placed immediately at the exit of the ducts in it converged in order to activate immediately. Very low power consumption, therefore, and also reduced the tank – but with considerable autonomy – to the benefit of the entire project, in terms of compactness and general ability to “stow”, which is crucial for users of such transportation. The House Japan is also preparing to market an engine of 125 cc, 4 stroke, 4 valves per cylinder and electronic fuel injection. And ‘dedicated to the global market and is characterized by the low cost industry, which makes it suitable for emerging markets (India, Brazil) and reduced operating costs, from fuel consumption.

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Triumph Tiger 1050 2012

Triumph Tiger 1050 2012:

Triumph Tiger 1050 2012

Starting today, Triumph launches 2012 version of Tiger International 1050, the “road” Adventure of the family (which includes also the Tiger 800 and 800XC). There are two key innovations compared to the MY2011: 1. retuned suspension (front and rear) with hydraulics to improve the travel magazine, with mono spring stiffer by 29%, and a load index which rose from 108 to 139N/mm. The result is a more active when you are alone and more comfortable as a pair with a better control under braking and full load. 2. a new black anodized aluminum handlebars, 20mm lower than the previous steel, which makes the riding position loaded forward.



From an aesthetic point of view: new graphics on the side panels, indicators and new “decromatura” of parts to align with the trend of the moment that you prefer the satin finish than chrome. Circles, flanges of front discs, front calipers, and other details are finished in black, supports the rider and passenger footrests are painted in graphite, silencers and other details such as polished Heel first, are now made ​​of steel with a satin finish. Colours: Tiger 1050 Phantom Black Tiger 1050 ABS HE Diablo Red, Crystal White two-tone Matt Black / Matt Graphite. Prices: same as previous models, with the 1050 Tiger sells for 11,445 Euros and the Tiger 1050 SE to 12,655 Euro including ABS, bags side to match, the center stand and hand guards.

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Ducati Multistrada and Hypermotard: news 2012

Ducati Multistrada and Hypermotard: news 2012:

Ducati Multistrada

The news is almost all in the look. Hypermotard and Multistrada SP Racing Touring fact change graphics and colors. Big tourers are also dedicated to the measures designed to improve comfort. Let’s find out in detail. Multistrada The most significant changes relate to the Ducati Multistrada Touring, which adds a new color to those already present in the range, the Titanium Race-Matt . The Ducati Multistrada, the second best-selling motorcycles in 2011 to date, also will assemble a new saddle . It will have a longer seat for the pilot to allow more longitudinal movement. The new seat will also be present on other versions MY 2012.



Hypermotard SP Racing New graphics for the aggressive motard Ducati that will completely replace those of the MY 2011. Moto.it remind readers that the Bologna motoradona was recently equipped with EVO 95 horsepower engine. Prices The models will be available from Ducati dealers in late September at a price of € 19,408 for the Multistrada and Hypermotard € 14,105 for the SP Racing.

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New BMW G 650 GS Sertao

New BMW G 650 GS Sertao:

BMW G 650 GS

The new G 650 GS Backwoods has a more sporty and features specifically designed for off-road driving and is dedicated to all those who love adventure, without sacrificing the technical characteristics of a bike suited to daily driving with a quality / competitive price: it will cost less than $ 8,000. Technically, the new G 650 GS Sertao relies on liquid-cooled single-cylinder GS 650 G of the torque curve that makes her strong point. The engine displacement of 652 cc delivers from 35 kW (48 hp) at 6,500 g / min and a maximum torque of 60 Nm at 5 000 r / min. The distribution is dual overhead camshaft, fuel injection and dual ignition.



It is also available underpowered for new drivers with 25 kW (34 hp) at 6,500 r / min, in this configuration the torque is 47 Nm at 4,500 r / min. The chassis of the G 650 GS was developed with extra-urban driving and short hikes on dirt roads. The Backwoods but is more prone to off-road thanks to increased suspension travel and a stiffer as well as being equipped with spoked wheels that are better suited to this soil. Main features of the new BMW G 650 GS Sertao Single cylinder of 652 cc with low power consumption. Torque of 60 Nm at 5,000 g / min and maximum power 35 kW (48 hp) at 6,500 r / min. Available in underpowered version: 25 kW (34 hp). the long-travel suspension (front / rear 210 mm) for the perfect off-road use. spoke wheels with 21 “front and 17″ behind. Aurawhite Livery Pastel / Blue pastel Sertao written, two-tone seat gray / black. rack black. lengthened the front wheel fender. Seat height: 860 mm (standard) and 900 mm (optional). High windshield. handguards. paramotor aluminum. BMW Motorrad ABS disabled ( Optional ex-factory). Wide range of options.

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General Views Of Yekaterinburg: 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia – Host City Candidate

General Views Of Yekaterinburg: 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia – Host City Candidate:

A general view of the Cathedral on the Blood on November 2, 2011 in Yekaterinburg, Russia. Yekaterinburg is one of thirteen cities proposed as a host city for 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. (Photo by Harry Engels/Getty Images)

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Darwin's Beer Can Boat Cruises Into Sydney Harbour

Darwin's Beer Can Boat Cruises Into Sydney Harbour:

“The Darwin Beer Can Regatta is an event which has been held annually since 1974 in Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia at Mindil Beach. Participants create boats using empty beer cans, soft drink (soda) cans, soft drink bottle and milk cartons. The vessels are not tested for seaworthiness, prior to water events, and those that fall apart are part of the day's entertainment. A great many sundry events go along with the regatta, including concerts, a thong-throwing contest and the "Henley-on-Mindil" competition (named after the Henley-on-Todd Regatta), where participants run their "boats" around like Flintstones cars”. – Wikipedia



Photo: A Darwin Beer Can Boat sails in Darling Harbour on October 31, in Sydney, Australia. Darwin has been named as one of Lonely Planet's top ten cities in the world to visit in it's Best in Travel publication. (Photo by Mark Kolbe/Getty Images for Tourism NT)

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October Snowstorm Hits The Northeast

October Snowstorm Hits The Northeast:

Fall foliage rests on a street after tumbling down after a winter storm October 30, 2011 in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. Thousands in Pennsylvania and Delaware were left without power from the early winter storm that left up to 10 inches of snow in parts of the states. (Photo by William Thomas Cain/Getty Images)

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Classic Car Owners In Jordan For The «2011 Jordan Classic»

Classic Car Owners In Jordan For The «2011 Jordan Classic»:

Classic car owners taking part in the “2011 Jordan Classic” arrive at the ancient Roman city of Jerash on October 31, 2011 in Jerash, Jordan. The 2011 Jordan Classic takes in world famous sites such as the Dead Sea and Petra. (Photo by Salah Malkawi/ Getty Images)

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The Future is Now at Chevrolet: 1955 Sees Knockout New V8 and More! [Chevrolet Centennial, 1950s Edition]

The Future is Now at Chevrolet: 1955 Sees Knockout New V8 and More! [Chevrolet Centennial, 1950s Edition]:

Chevrolet is marking its 100th anniversary this week. To celebrate, we’re republishing two posts per day from our blog archives, each one plucked from a different decade of the marque’s long existence.

It’s the future right now at your local Chevrolet dealer. Yes, with a new line of 1955 Motoramic motorcars with a new ride and new power, the Hot Ones are even hotter and they are all ready for takeoff!

Be the boss of your outfit with the new Turbo-Fire bent-eight. It can really zip away the old cobwebs with 162 horsepower. And, with its improved Glide Ride suspension, she’ll turn on a dime and give you a nickel’s change.

And for the missus, don’t forget the Bel Air Beauville wagon, powered with plenty of vim by a Blue Flame six making almost 140 hp. She’ll be able to take all the children and, with a Powerglide automatic transmission, she won’t have to worry herself with shifting. It shifts itself between both gears!

For the carefree man there’s only one car, and they call her Corvette. You’ll really lose your heart to this Chevrolet. Now with a Turbo-Fire V-8, the Corvette gives a knuckle sandwich to the foreign jobs. And she handles like an angel.

And while we don’t expect that anyone outside of the trades will ever have any interest whatsoever in driving a truck as a personal-transportation device in the suburbs because that would be just kookie, the new-for-1955 Chevrolet Cameo Carrier brings a little bit of the country club to the farm with rear fenders molded from the same jet-age material used to make the fabulous Corvette: fiberglass.

The new Chevrolets are all clear for takeoff! —Report compiled by Humbert H. Tang

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Honda Brings Civic Si Coupe HFP, Supercharged Accord Concept, and More to the 2011 SEMA Show

Honda Brings Civic Si Coupe HFP, Supercharged Accord Concept, and More to the 2011 SEMA Show:

The Honda stand at the 2011 SEMA show ought to give some hope to enthusiasts who may think Honda has lost its performance edge in recent years. Four projects in particular stood out: the most available—and arguably least significant of which—being this limited-edition Honda Civic Si coupe (pictured above) from Honda’s in-house tuners, HFP (a.k.a. Honda Factory Performance). With its full aero kit, stiffened suspension components, 0.6-in-lower ride height, and 18-inch HFP wheels, the HFP Civic Si promises the sort of intensified performance experience we wish the Civic Si innately possessed, but hey, we’ll take what we can get at this point. The interior is dressed up with red lighting, HFP floor mats, and HFP emblems. The Civic Si coupe with the HFP package is on sale now and can be had in any of the Si coupe’s seven available colors. Honda will cap production at just 500 units.

Accord Coupe V-6 HFP Concept

HFP also did a number to an Accord coupe, and not just on the outside. This particular Accord V-6 was fitted with a supercharger and a performance air intake and exhaust, upping output to a very hearty 335 hp and 285 lb-ft of torque. That’s a considerable jump from the standard V-6 model’s 271 hp and 251 lb-ft of torque. Honda has no plans to produce the car as seen here, but is floating it out there to gauge interest in adding such a model to the Accord range. The V-6 Accord, though, is already quick and powerful—we’ve run a manual-equipped coupe to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds—so we have to ask: Can those front wheels even cope with that extra oomph?

Could a Supercharged CR-Z Be in Our Future?

Another interesting concept was not an actual car, but a CR-Z internal combustion engine displayed with a supercharger attached to it. Honda race fans may recall that Honda’s racing division, Honda Performance Development, has built a CR-Z hybrid racer powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine, which, when combined with the CR-Z’s electric powertrain, yields between 178 and 200 hp, depending on state of tune. Honda said the supercharged 1.5-liter CR-Z engine concept “builds upon HPD’s experience with the turbocharged HPD CR-Z Racer,” and “represents HPD’s continued exploration of the performance potential of the CR-Z.” We’d like Honda to drop that into a street-worthy CR-Z and let us do some performance exploration of our own.

2012 Honda Civic Coupe Body-in-White

Finally, Honda formally announced the sale of body-in-white versions of the 2012 Civic coupe, as well as a suite of complementary bolt-on parts, thus allowing amateur race teams to build new race cars without having to tear apart a production car. The cost for the Civic coupe’s skeleton is a reasonable $3500, but that does not include any of the stuff needed to actually turn it in into a bona fide race car, like, say, an engine. To that end, in early 2012, HPD will begin selling engines, transmissions, suspension and brake components, and more, all specifically engineered to help the Civic compete in SCCA World Challenge and Grand Am’s Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge events. Since July, Honda has sold more than half a dozen bodies-in-white. Undoubtedly, many more will follow.

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Subaru BRZ Concept STI Revealed: One Last Preview Prior to the Production Model

Subaru BRZ Concept STI Revealed: One Last Preview Prior to the Production Model:

A final preview of the upcoming rear-drive sports car.

One might think of the upcoming 2012 Subaru BRZ as a steak thrown at the feet of a hungry dog, one whose leash is just short enough to keep it from savoring the goods. Previous sightings include two chassis studies by Subaru, three concepts from coconspirator Toyota, and piles of spy photos. Heck, we’ve already driven a prototype—and it was fantastic. But that car was still camo’d, so this BRZ STI concept—headed to the L.A. auto show later this month—is the first time we’ve seen the Subaru version in bare sheetmetal.

Keep Reading: Subaru BRZ Concept STI – Auto Shows

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2012 Mercedes-Benz B-class Driven: Becoming Something Better – First Drive Review

2012 Mercedes-Benz B-class Driven: Becoming Something Better – First Drive Review:

The first Mercedes-Benz B-class was a disappointment. The second generation is not.

When the first Mercedes-Benz A- and B-class appeared on the market, the tall compacts offered great practicality but little in terms of material quality or driving enjoyment. Welcome, then, to the second-generation B-class. It’s another high-roof hatchback, but this time it looks far less awkward, is larger, and rides on a new platform for which Mercedes has big plans.

Keep reading: 2012 Mercedes-Benz B-class – First Drive Review

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Kia Gets in on Showroom Stock Racing with New 2012 Rio5 B-Spec Race Kit

Kia Gets in on Showroom Stock Racing with New 2012 Rio5 B-Spec Race Kit:

Zipping around town in a tiny B-segment car is often very pleasurable. Descriptors like “go-kart” or “darty” are often used to express the size and spirited nature of the cars, so it would only seem fitting to set a bunch of them loose on a race track, right? Well, that’s just what several manufacturers like Mazda, Honda, Ford, and possibly even Fiat and Toyota, are looking to do with those little hatchbacks. Kia, not to be left out, has just announced its plans to join the fun with its Rio5 B-Spec kit.

The formula is simple. Buy a Mazda 2, Honda Fit, Ford Fiesta, or Kia Rio5 in this case, and transform the little guy into a full-blown race car with a roll cage, race seat, suspension upgrades, and so on. Then, take it to the track and go wheel-to-wheel racing against those other little Bs under sanctioning bodies like World Challenge, Grand-Am, Sports Car Club of America, and National Auto Sport Association, in the Showroom Stock B-Spec class.

Kia, in conjunction with its racing partner Kinetic Motorsports which runs Kia’s Forte Koup Grand-Am effort, has announced a B-Spec kit that’ll include everything you need to transform your Rio5 into a race car. Available for $14,000—that’s in addition to the $14,350 cost of a 2012 Rio5—the kit includes a roll cage kit, a race seat and harness, quick-release steering wheel, race shocks, lighter wheels and spec tires, oil pump pan expansion kit, and build instructions. The price does not include prep or installation, so if you aren’t handy with a welder or wrench, Kinetic will assemble your B-Spec Rio5 for another $6000 at its shop in Buford, Georgia.

While building a B-Spec racer isn’t exactly cheap—nothing associated with auto racing is—it’s considerably less than the money required to build most other race cars. We sampled Mazda 2 and Honda Fit B-Spec cars at the 25 Hours of Thunderhill and came away impressed by both cars’ capabilities. The series looks to be a hoot with so many manufacturers poised to get in, and we can’t wait to see what sort of rivalries ensue.

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Viper V-10 Lives for Drag: Racing Crate Motor Announced at SEMA

Viper V-10 Lives for Drag: Racing Crate Motor Announced at SEMA:

While the Dodge Viper is on hiatus—the next-gen snake will arrive in late 2012—a version of its engine has been added to the fall schedule: Mopar announced at the SEMA show that it will offer a ready-to-race drag version of the iconic V-10. Pushing an extremely healthy 800 hp and 695 lb-ft of torque from 512 cubic inches, the crate motor has a 7000-rpm redline and a 12.5:1 compression ratio. As you’d expect, the block and heads are aluminum. It also boasts forged internals, including the aluminum pistons, steel crankshaft and connecting rods, and the ECU has been specially calibrated for quarter-mile use. Chrysler says road-race and off-road versions are coming, too.

Owners of third-gen Vipers also got good news, as a bolt-on Performance Upgrade Kit was announced for those cars’ stock V-10s. It combines new aluminum heads, a new upper intake manifold with enlarged throttle body, and new fuel rails to boost output by 150 hp. Good thing, we say, because we’d have become bored with our third-gen Viper’s paltry 500 horses years ago.

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Mechatronik Makes Old Mercedes New Again, With an AMG-Supplied Twist

Mechatronik Makes Old Mercedes New Again, With an AMG-Supplied Twist:

We stumbled upon this pair of beautifully restored Mercedes in the most unlikely of places: SEMA’s SUV, wheel, and tire hall. Then we looked under the hoods to find something else that didn’t quite belong: modern AMG engines. When the drooling ceased, we started asking questions.

The “why?” was pretty obvious. Old Benzes are beautiful, but not always the best daily drivers. Also, who doesn’t like more power?

“Who?” was the interesting bit. Mechatronik is a German company founded 15 years ago by former AMG engineer Frank Rickert. It does full restorations of anything Mercedes from 1949 through the ’80s, and even does contract work for the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center in Germany. The two cars it brought along to SEMA—a 280SE coupe and a stately 300S—were shiny, shining examples of their work. Both appeared like-new and with what we can only assume were all the right parts and pieces.

That applies to the visible components, anyway. Rickert and his team will also upgrade any of the cars’ mechanical systems, creating what they call a “New-Tech” restoration. All modifications are done with great respect to the original vehicle, with Rickert claiming no new holes are drilled to accommodate the new stuff.

The 300S at the show was powered by the 3.6-liter inline-six from a C36 AMG—one of the company spokesmen admitted it was overkill—backed by a column-shifted five-speed. A 555-hp AMG 5.5-liter V-8 was fitted in place of the 280SE’s original 3.5-liter V-8. The coupe also had an upgraded suspension of Mechatronik’s own design using Eibach parts, as well as modern Mercedes ABS brakes. And thanks to Becker’s line of classic-looking modern stereos, the sound system got a stealth redo as well. We were told the company’s current over-the-top project is a 280SE convertible with a supercharged AMG V-8 for “a special client.” You gotta imagine most of their clients are pretty special, though.

Mechatronik’s booth was in the nebulous “first-time exhibitor” area because, well, this was the company’s first visit to SEMA. It wasn’t just in Vegas to tease us, though; Mechatronik has plans to sell its cars in the U.S. It already has a distributor in Colorado Springs and is looking to sign three dealers here in the States. Before a customer picks up a car, though, Rickert insists they come to Germany for a test drive on the autobahn. We definitely don’t have the cash for one of these restored beauties—or, let’s face it, even an unrestored basketcase—but we wouldn’t mind taking the test drive.

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Optimus Prime Appears at SEMA 2011 As BRP Can-Am Spyder Roadster

Optimus Prime Appears at SEMA 2011 As BRP Can-Am Spyder Roadster:

Some people look at the BRP Can-Am Spyder Roadster and see a confusing mish-mash of variously familiar automotive terms. Some see a snowmobile for street use. Others see a motorcycle for those with recurring inner-ear problems. Fortunately for us and the rest of the SEMA crowd, someone at Killer Kreations looked at the Can-Am Spyder and saw Optimus Prime.

We can’t argue with them—after seeing this BRP, we’ll never look at another one again without seeing an Autobot. The detail work is amazing, with battle scars, scuffs, and scrapes covering the entirety of the vehicle. To further ensure that riders never suffer similar injuries—not that we noted any inherent instability whatsoever when we tested a Can-Am Spyder—this example boasts a four-wheel conversion kit. Architecturally speaking, triangles might be strong, but anyone who’s ever cooked a calf beneath an overturned three-wheeler will attest to the superiority of the four-wheel layout.

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AEV’s Brute Double Cab is the Ultimate Jeep Wrangler Pickup

AEV’s Brute Double Cab is the Ultimate Jeep Wrangler Pickup:

The AEV Brute Double Cab looks like it could have rolled out of the Wrangler factory in Toledo. There’s attention to detail here that’s not present on many of the custom Jeeps we’ve seen at SEMA. Company founder Dave Harriton insists on doing things right; he’s hired Jeep engineers who worked on the JK Wrangler and makes sure that materials and coatings match OEM spec wherever possible. Chrysler seems to trust AEV, too, because it uses the Missoula, Montana–based company as a supplier for some Jeep parts, including certain pieces of the JK8 conversion kit, Jeep’s own Wrangler pickup solution.

But there are a few things AEV can offer that Jeep won’t from the factory, namely a V-8 swap. Using a 2012 Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon as the new Brute’s basis, AEV is happy to leave the stock 3.6-liter V-6 in place. Or you can trade up to a Hemi V-8, either the 5.7-liter or SRT’s new 6.4. (Our own John Phillips recently tested an AEV Wrangler Rubicon fitted with the 5.7. He did not find it wanting for power.) This particular show truck was outfitted with just about everything AEV will offer on the Double Cab, including the 6.4-liter Hemi and the W5A580 five-speed automatic that normally backs it up in a Grand Cherokee SRT8.

About the bed: It’s a composite piece—as opposed to the steel box used on AEV’s TJ-based Brute pickup—which Harriton tells us saves about 140 pounds. The stock Wrangler Unlimited chassis needs a couple of modifications before the 61-inch bed (that’s 11 inches longer than the two-door JK8′s) can be installed. There’s a 16-inch extension in the rear, as well as a 23-inch stretch between the wheels. To accommodate the two-door and four-door Wranglers in the factory, Jeep builds separate front and rear frame sections and uses two different midsections. AEV just replaces that middle part with a longer piece, made of the same high-strength steel. The company fabricates a steel bulkhead to go behind the rear seats, as well as a new rear section for the hardtop, which uses the stock front Freedom Top roof panels. The resulting Wrangler measures 216 inches in length. Which is, like, really long.

AEV plans to sell a couple hundred of the Double Cabs per year at a yet-to-be-announced price—AEV’s current conversions range in price from $45K to about $100K, so figure on nearing or cresting triple digits for the new Brute. The Jeep trucks will be assembled in the company’s Wixom, Michigan, facility, and will be available with all of the options currently offered on its other Jeeps, including Dynatrac Dana axles, snorkels, its own stamped-steel front bumper, and full suspension kits.

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Shrunken Heads? Hell No! Head Hunter Ram at SEMA 2011

Shrunken Heads? Hell No! Head Hunter Ram at SEMA 2011:

There are lots of lifted pickups at SEMA, and there are lots of airbrushed vehicles. Skulls are an ever-popular airbrushing theme, and green is a sure-fire way to get noticed. But we can’t imagine many vehicles incorporating all of these ideas in a way that is as natural—well, as far as trucks that are nearly 10 feet tall are concerned—as this 2009 Ram 1500.

Owned by Robbie and Keena Bryant from Fort Smith, Arkansas, the truck is lifted a tremendous 21 inches, and the Mickey Thompson Baja Claw rubber under it measures 46 inches in diameter. The airbrushing along the lower half of the body depicts the usual skulls and swords, but, when paired with black bodywork, slime-green really looks good. We missed some opportunities with our long-term Ram.

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Hottest Vehicles Award – 2011 SEMA Show

Hottest Vehicles Award – 2011 SEMA Show:

The second annual SEMA Award has been presented to the Chevrolet Camaro for the Hottest Car, the Fiat 500 for the Hottest Sport Compact Car, the Ford F-Series for the Hottest Truck and the Jeep Wrangler for the Hottest 4×4-SUV.

Each year SEMA honors those vehicles that specialty-equipment manufacturers believe are the best platforms for accessorization and that showcase the year’s coolest products. The award recognizes four outstanding vehicle models in four categories – “Hottest Car,” “Hottest Sport Compact Car,” “Hottest Truck,” and “Hottest 4×4-SUV.”

“As the visionaries and innovators of the industry, our SEMA Show exhibitors determine the winners of the SEMA Award based on the vehicles they showcase in their booths,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “With each booth vehicle representing one vote, the most prominent models in each category are the winners. The SEMA Award celebrates these outstanding vehicles that emerge each year at the show.”

At the award ceremony Jeep had three modified Wranglers on display, Ford showcased a trio of modified trucks, Chevrolet showed off three Camaros while Fiat had just one modified 500 on display.

Although I obviously did not take an accurate tally of the popularity of vehicles on display at SEMA, the Camaro is certainly a noticeably popular vehicle this year. However, I saw more Ford Focus and Fiesta conversions, as well as several Chevrolet Cruzes, than I did Fiat 500s.

More:



Full Coverage: 2011 SEMA Show >>

Photos: Best of SEMA 2011 >>

Related posts:

1. 2011 Ford Fiesta B-Spec – 2011 SEMA Show
2. Mazda Turbo2 – 2011 SEMA Show
3. Eibach Springs CR-Z – 2011 SEMA Show

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