The Kneeslider

Doers Builders and Positive People

Motoczysz C1 990

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Just reading the July issue of Motorcyclist and their in depth article on the Motoczysz C1. What caught my eye was the full name of the bike, the C1 990, as in 990cc displacement. So what? Well, this bike does have the intended aim of racing in MotoGP and if you'll recall, the rules just changed a few days ago and the engines are dropping to 800cc beginning in 2007. Just goes … [Read more...]

R1ot, Yamaha R1 powered car

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This sort of thing is starting to pop up in more places, I just wish more of them were popping up where I live. The R1ot, is a purpose built track day car powered by a 150hp Yamaha R1 engine. And if you're wondering about performance, the total package weighs 410 kilograms, that's 903 pounds! I'll bet some Harley dressers get close to that weight. Built by Sylva Autokits, a … [Read more...]

Smart Car plus GSXR equals “Smartuki,” a VERY Smart Car

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Let me introduce, Peter Bee. Peter is a sensible English fellow who took a liking to the Smart Car as soon as it was introduced, so he bought one. He found the car so much to his liking that he kept on buying them, great second car, nice for running errands, quick scoots around town, all very sensible. Problem is, Pete spends his days around MHP, makers of high performance … [Read more...]

Motorcycles companies in waiting

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Looking back at a post from November of last year, I noted the Roehr Motorcycle Company was attempting to bring out the RV1000. Because of our focus on companies over the last few days, I thought I would check in to see what was happening. It seems things are about where they were, the company is still trying to obtain financing. This stage is always critical, trying to keep … [Read more...]

Motorcycle companies stillborn

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As noted yesterday, there have been many attempts to rebirth old names in the motorcycle business with no guarantee of success. There have also been some recent attempts to start up with a new name which unfortunately fared no better. One notable name is Hunwick Hallam of Australia. Introduced with some fanfare in 1997 they produced prototypes of a superbike, the X1R, a power … [Read more...]

Motorcycle Companies Reborn

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What is behind the continuing stream of new motorcycles (and cars) badged with old names from companies long dead? Any business major or business owner will tell you there is value to good will and name recognition and both entice investors to pay a premium when taking over a going concern but what does the name really mean to potential customers of a resurrected firm? If your … [Read more...]