Safety

Motorcycles have a higher rate of fatal accidents than automobiles. United States Department of Transportation data for 2005 from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System show that for passenger cars, 18.62 fatal crashes occur per 100,000 registered vehicles. For motorcycles this figure is higher at 75.19 per 100,000 registered vehicles – four times higher than for cars.[32] The same data show that 1.56 fatalities occur per 100 million vehicle miles travelled for passenger cars, whereas for motorcycles the figure is 43.47 – 28 times higher than for cars. Furthermore for motorcycles the accident rates have increased significantly since the end of the 1990s, while the rates have dropped for passenger cars.

The two major causes of motorcycle accidents in the United States are: motorists pulling out or turning in front of motorcyclists and violating their rights-of-way and motorcyclists running wide through turns. The former is sometimes called a SMIDSY, an acronym formed from the motorists' common response of "Sorry mate, I didn't see you".[33] The latter is more common when motorcyclists mix drinking with riding.[34] Motorcyclists can anticipate and avoid some of these crashes with proper training, increasing their conspicuousness to other traffic, and separating alcohol and riding.
The United Kingdom has several organisations which are dedicated to improving motorcycle safety by providing advanced rider training over and above what is necessary to pass the basic motorcycle test. These include the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA). Along with increased personal safety, riders with these advanced qualifications often benefit from reduced insurance costs.

Motorcycle Safety Education is offered throughout the United States by organisations ranging from state agencies to non-profit organisations to corporations. The courses, designed by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF), include a Basic Rider Course, an Intermediate Rider Course and an Advanced Rider Course.
In the UK (except Northern Ireland) and some Australian jurisdictions, such as New South Wales,[35] the Australian Capital Territory[36] and the Northern Territory,[37] it is compulsory to undertake a rider training course

Mobility

While people choose to ride motorcycles for various reasons, those reasons are increasingly practical, with riders opting for a powered two-wheeler as a cost-efficient alternative to infrequent and expensive public transport systems, or as a means of avoiding or reducing the effects of urban congestion.[28] In places where it is permitted, lane splitting, also known as filtering, allows motorcycles to use the space between vehicles to move through stationary or slow traffic.[29]
In the UK, motorcycles are exempt from the £8 per day London congestion charge other vehicles must pay to enter the city during the day. Motorcycles are also exempt from toll charges at some river crossings, such as the Severn Bridge, Dartford Crossing, and Mersey Tunnels. Some cities, such as Bristol, allow motorcycles to use bus lanes and provide dedicated free parking. In the United States, those states that have high-occupancy vehicle lanes also allow for motorcycle travel in them. Other countries have similar policies.
In New Zealand motorcycle riders are not required to pay for parking that is controlled by a barrier arm;[30] the arm does not occupy the entire width of the lane, and the motorcyclist simply rides around it.[31] Many car parks controlled in this way supply special areas for motorcycles to park, so as not to unnecessarily consume spaces.

Subcultures

Around the world, motorcycles have historically been associated with subcultures. Some of these subcultures have been loose-knit social groups such as the cafe racers of 1950s Britain, and the Mods and Rockers of the 1960s. A few are believed to be criminal gangs.
Social motorcyclist organisations are popular and are sometimes organised geographically, focus on individual makes, or even specific models. Example motorcycle clubs include: American Motorcyclist Association, Harley Owners Group, Moto Guzzi National Owners Club, Gold Wing Road Riders (GWRRA), and BMW MOA.
Many motorcycle organisations raise money for charities through organised events and rides. Some organisations hold large international motorcycle rallies in different parts of the world that are attended by many thousands of riders.
Some other motorcycle organisations exist only for the direct benefit of others. Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA) is one example. BACA assigns members to individual children to help them through difficult situations, or even stay with the child if the child is alone or frightened.[24]
In recent decades, motorcyclists have formed political lobbying organisations in order to influence legislators to introduce motorcycle-friendly legislation. One of the oldest such organisations, the British Motorcycle Action Group, was founded in 1973 specifically in response to helmet compulsion, introduced without public consultation.[25] In addition, the British Motorcyclists Federation (BMF), originally founded in 1960 as a reaction to the public perception of motorcyclists as leather-jacketed hooligans, has itself moved into political lobbying.
Likewise, the U.S. has ABATE, which, like most such organisations, also works to improve motorcycle safety, as well as running the usual charity fund-raising events and rallies, often for motorcycle-related political interests.[26]

Windscreen

Also called windshields or screens, windscreens can be built into a fairing or be attached to an otherwise unfaired bike. They are usually made from transparent high-impact acrylic plastic. They may be shaped specifically to direct air flow over or around the head of the rider even if they are much shorter than the seated rider. The latest variation, introduced on the 1986 BMW K100LT, is electrically controlled height adjustment.

1950s fibreglass side-loading "Golden Arrow" panniers from Craven. Panniers can be "hard" or "soft".
Saddlebags or panniers
Saddlebags or panniers mount on either side of the rear of the motorcycle roughly beside (but not interfering with) the pillion passenger. "Hard" panniers commonly come in an injection moulded plastic such as ABS, and "soft" panniers come in some form of textile (eg Cordura) or leather. Panniers are nearly always detachable and often lockable, both of their mountings and their closure. Side-loading panniers are especially suitable for carefully packed clothing and taking into hotel rooms (like a suitcase), while top-loading hard panniers are preferred by other users. Utility top-loading soft panniers often come in a "throw-over" form without mountings or fixings, perhaps safely held in place under the rider or pillion - or simply loose.
Modern touring motorcycles often have panniers fitted as standard or they may be available as options on particular models. But most panniers come from local workshop industries which are not formally linked to the manufacturers of the motorcycle. The fixings of such panniers will be model specific, but the lucky rider may have a choice as to the actual case carried.

Fairing

The most prominent of the plastic or fibreglass shells covering parts of the motorcycle is the "fairing". In practice, this may blend almost seamlessly with engine panels or wheel covers/mudguards (which in some cases will be painted or plated metal). These systems act to protect the rider from some or all of the weather, may improve aerodynamics (reducing drag), and are an important styling element. Full enclosure, the dustbin fairing, went out of fashion, partly for safety reasons - they were banned in racing in 1958 by the FIM.
Modern fairings, mostly designed specifically for each motorcycle and fitted as original equipment by the manufacturer, have eliminated the aerodynamic and structural failings of early add-on fairings. Both sports and tourer versions improve (sometimes very considerably) the rider's comfort in cold and wet weather and even "bikini" versions protect the vulnerable crotch region from water ingress.

Aerodynamic sports fairing on a Honda CBR1000F
Windscreen

Fuel economy

Motorcycle fuel economy benefits from the relatively small mass of the vehicle. This, of course, relates to how the motorcycle is used. One person on a small motorcycle travelling a short distance is generally very economical. However, a large motorcycle generally has bad aerodynamics compared with a typical car, poor aerodynamics of exposed passengers and engines designed for goals other than fuel economy can work to reduce these benefits.[citation needed] Riding style has a large effect on fuel economy.
Fuel economy varies greatly with engine displacement and riding style[13] ranging from a low of 29 mpg-US (8.1 L/100 km; 35 mpg-imp) reported by a Honda VTR1000F rider,[14] to 107 mpg-US (2.20 L/100 km; 129 mpg-imp) reported for the Verucci Nitro 50 cc Scooter.[15] A specially designed Matzu Matsuzawa Honda XL125 achieved 470 mpg-US (0.50 L/100 km; 560 mpg-imp) "on real highways - in real conditions."[16]
Due to lower engine displacements (100 cc–200 cc), motorcycles in developing countries offer good fuel economy.[citation needed] In the Indian market, the second most selling company, Bajaj, offers two models with superior fuel economy: XCD 125 and Platina. Both are 125 cc motorbikes with a company-claimed fuel economy of 109 km/l and 111 km/l, respectively.[citation needed]

Construction

Motorcycle construction is the engineering, manufacturing, and assembly of components and systems for a motorcycle which results in performance, cost and aesthetics desired by the designer. With some exceptions, construction of modern mass-produced motorcycles has standardised on a steel or aluminium frame, telescopic forks holding the front wheel, and disc brakes. Some other body parts, designed for either aesthetic or performance reasons may be added. A petrol powered engine typically consisting of between one and four cylinders (and less commonly, up to eight cylinders) coupled to a manual five- or six-speed sequential transmission drives the swingarm-mounted rear wheel by a chain, driveshaft or belt.

More about Bikes

largest manufacturer from 1955 until the 1970s.

NSU Sportmax streamlined motorcycle, 250 cc class winner of the 1955 Grand Prix season
In the 1950s, streamlining began to play an increasing part in the development of racing motorcycles and held out the possibility of radical changes to motorcycle design. NSU and Moto-Guzzi were in the vanguard of this development both producing very radical designs well ahead of their time.[8] NSU produced the most advanced design, but because of the deaths of four NSU riders in the 1954–1956 seasons, they abandoned further development and quit Grand Prix motorcycle racing.[9] Moto-Guzzi produced competitive race machines, and by 1957 nearly all the Grand Prix races were being won by streamlined machines.[citation needed]
From the 1960s through the 1990s, small two-stroke motorcycles were popular worldwide, partly as a result of East German Walter Kaaden's engine work in the 1950s.[10]

A 2008 Hero Honda Passion, one of the best selling bikes in India.
Today, the Japanese manufacturers, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha dominate the motorcycle industry, although Harley-Davidson still maintains a high degree of popularity in the United States. Apart from these high capacity motorcycles, there is a very large market for low capacity (less than 300 cc) motorcycles, mostly concentrated in Asian and African countries. This area is dominated by mostly Indian companies with Hero Honda being a large manufacturer of two wheelers, e.g. its Splendor model which has sold more than 8.5 million to date.[11] Ultimately, the highest selling motorcycle of all time is the Honda Super Cub, which has sold more than 60 million units and is still in production after 50 years.[12]

A 2005 Triumph Daytona 955i
Recent years have also seen a resurgence in the popularity of several other brands sold in the U.S. market, including BMW, KTM, Triumph, Aprilia, Moto-Guzzi, MV Agusta and Ducati.

History

Arguably, the first motorcycle was designed and built by the German inventors Gottlieb Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach in Bad Cannstatt (since 1905 a city district of Stuttgart) in 1885.[6] The first petroleum-powered vehicle was essentially a motorised bicycle, although the inventors called their invention the Reitwagen ("riding car"). However, if a two-wheeled vehicle with steam propulsion is considered a motorcycle, then the first one may have been American. One such machine was demonstrated at fairs and circuses in the eastern U.S. in 1867, built by Sylvester Howard Roper of Roxbury, Massachusetts.[6]
In 1894, Hildebrand & Wolfmüller became the first motorcycle available for purchase.[7] In the early period of motorcycle history, many producers of bicycles adapted their designs to accommodate the new internal combustion engine. As the engines became more powerful and designs outgrew the bicycle origins, the number of motorcycle producers increased.

An historic 1941 Crocker
Until the First World War, the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world was Indian, producing over 20,000 bikes per year. By 1920, this honour went to Harley-Davidson, with their motorcycles being sold by dealers in 67 countries. In 1928, DKW took over as the largest manufacturer.
After the Second World War, the BSA Group became the largest producer of motorcycles in the world, producing up to 75,000 bikes per year in the 1950s. The German company NSU Motorenwerke AG held the position of largest manufacturer from 1955 until the 1970s.

NSU Sportmax streamlined motorcycle, 250 cc class winner of the 1955 Grand Prix season
In the 1950s, streamlining began to play an increasing part in the development of racing motorcycles and held out the possibility of radical changes to motorcycle design. NSU and Moto-Guzzi were in the vanguard of this development both producing very radical designs well ahead of their time.[8] NSU produced the most advanced design, but because of the deaths of four NSU riders in the 1954–1956 seasons, they abandoned further development and quit Grand Prix motorcycle racing.[9] Moto-Guzzi produced competitive race machines, and by 1957 nearly all the Grand Prix races were being won by streamlined machines.[citation needed]
From the 1960s through the 1990s, small two-stroke motorcycles were popular worldwide, partly as a result of East German Walter Kaaden's engine work in the 1950s.[10]

Uses Of Bikes

Bicycles have been and are employed for many uses:

Working bicycle in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Utility: bicycle commuting and utility cycling
Work: mail delivery, paramedics, police, and general delivery.
Recreation: bicycle touring, mountain biking, BMX and physical fitness.
Racing: track racing, criterium, roller racing and time trial to multi-stage events like the Tour of California, Giro d'Italia, the Tour de France, the Vuelta a España, the Volta a Portugal, among others.
Military: scouting, troop movement, supply of provisions, and patrol. See bicycle infantry.
Show: entertainment and performance, e.g. circus clowns. Used as instrument by Frank Zappa.

History Of Bikes

Multiple innovators contributed to the history of the bicycle by developing precursor human-powered vehicles. The documented ancestors of today's modern bicycle were known as push bikes (still called push bikes outside of North America), draisines, or hobby horses. Being the first human means of transport to make use of the two-wheeler principle, the draisine (or mistmashine, "running machine"), invented by the German Baron Karl von Drais, is regarded as the archetype of the bicycle. It was introduced by Drais to the public in Mannheim in summer 1817 and in Paris in 1818.[3] Its rider sat astride a wooden frame supported by two in-line wheels and pushed the vehicle along with his/her feet while steering the front wheel.

A penny-farthing or ordinary bicycle photographed in the Škoda Auto museum in the Czech Republic
In the early 1860s, Frenchmen Pierre Michaux and Pierre Lallement took bicycle design in a new direction by adding a mechanical crank drive with pedals on an enlarged front wheel (the velocipede). Another French inventor by the name of Douglas Grasso had a failed prototype of Pierre Lallement's bicycle several years earlier. Several why-not-the-rear-wheel inventions followed, the best known being the rod-driven velocipede by Scotsman Thomas McCall in 1869. The French creation, made of iron and wood, developed into the "penny-farthing" (more formally an "ordinary bicycle", a retronym, since there were then no other kind).[4] It featured a tubular steel frame on which were mounted wire spoked wheels with solid rubber tires. These bicycles were difficult to ride due to their very high seat and poor weight distribution.

Bicycle in Plymouth, England at the start of the 20th century
The dwarf ordinary addressed some of these faults by reducing the front wheel diameter and setting the seat further back. This necessitated the addition of gearing, effected in a variety of ways, to attain sufficient speed. Having to both pedal and steer via the front wheel remained a problem. J. K. Starley, J. H. Lawson, and Shergold solved this problem by introducing the chain drive (originated by Henry Lawson's unsuccessful "bicyclette"),[5] connecting the frame-mounted pedals to the rear wheel. These models were known as dwarf safeties, or safety bicycles, for their lower seat height and better weight distribution. Starley's 1885 Rover is usually described as the first recognizably modern bicycle. Soon, the seat tube was added, creating the double-triangle diamond frame of the modern bike.
Further innovations increased comfort and ushered in a second bicycle craze, the 1890s' Golden Age of Bicycles. In 1888, Scotsman John Boyd Dunlop introduced the pneumatic tire, which soon became universal. Soon after, the rear freewheel was developed, enabling the rider to coast. This refinement led to the 1898 invention of coaster brakes. Derailleur gears and hand-operated cable-pull brakes were also developed during these years, but were only slowly adopted by casual riders. By the turn of the century, cycling clubs flourished on both sides of the Atlantic, and touring and racing became widely popular.
Bicycles and horse buggies were the two mainstays of private transportation just prior to the automobile, and the grading of smooth roads in the late 19th century was stimulated by the widespread advertising, production, and use of these devices.

Bicycle

The bicycle, bike, or cycle is a pedal-driven, human-powered vehicle with two wheels attached to a frame, one behind the other.
Bicycles were introduced in the 19th century and now number about one billion worldwide.[1] They are the principal means of transportation in many regions. They also provide a popular form of recreation, and have been adapted for such uses as children's toys, adult fitness, military and police applications, courier services, and competitive sports.
The basic shape and configuration of a typical bicycle has changed little since the first chain-driven model was developed around 1885.[2] Many details have been improved, especially since the advent of modern materials and computer-aided design. These have allowed for a proliferation of specialized designs for particular types of cycling.
The bicycle has had a considerable effect on human society, in both the cultural and industrial realms. In its early years, bicycle construction drew on pre-existing technologies; more recently, bicycle technology has, in turn, contributed both to old and new areas.

A Jolt to the Electric Vehicle Market: ZMC Offers the ZENN for Under $10,000

TORONTO, April 9 -- ZENN Motor Company, a leading developer of zero emission transportation solutions, is pleased to announce it will offer the 2009 All-Electric ZENN LSV (low-speed vehicle) for an unprecedented price of $9,995 under its Ambassador Program through a combination of an innovative product Ambassador rebate program and a one time federal tax credit. This offer is available through June 30th, 2009 from the Company's network of retailers throughout the United States.The ZENN creates excitement wherever it goes. In exchange for their efforts to promote the ZENN in their communities and sharing their experiences with the Company, Ambassadors are provided with a $4,750 rebate that can be immediately applied at point-of-purchase. Ambassadors who sign up for this limited-time program at point of purchase will receive a tool kit that includes a ZENN hat, ZENN t-shirt, and promotional literature. They will also participate in online surveys and feedback questionnaires during the first three months of ownership.Dennis Han*****, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, is a firm believer in the Ambassador Program. "The vehicle attracts a lot of attention and early adopters of the ZENN have proven to be passionate advocates and educators of the brand. This program provides new customers with an opportunity to purchase a vehicle for a substantially reduced cost in exchange for their grass roots advocacy and promotion of the ZENN's as a sustainable transportation solution."The program's pricing structure is as follows:ZENN MSRP: $15,995Ambassador Rebate: -$4,750Total Purchase Price* $11,245Less 10% Federal Tax Credit** -$1,250Total Cost to Customer***: $9,995*Please note the total purchase price does not include optional accessories, delivery fees or sales taxes. **Actual Federal Tax credit may vary depending on individual tax situation. Federal Tax Credit is based on 10% of total purchase price plus $1,250 in standard delivery fees. ***Total Cost to Customer includes both the Ambassador point of sale rebate and an estimated amount for the federal tax credit incentive that the customer may be eligible for when filing their income taxes. Cost to customer is net of taxes, delivery fees, and optional accessories.ZENN's Ambassador pricing makes it the least expensive all-weather Neighborhood Electric Vehicle in the market today, nearly $2,000 dollars less than the ZAP, and about $10,000 lower than other some other NEVs in the marketplace.The ZENN is a fully equipped, neighborhood electric vehicle (NEV) with a range of up to 35 miles that recharges using a standard 120 volt electric outlet in as little as four hours. The ZENN is far less complex than a conventional car or a hybrid, with significantly fewer parts. There is no oil to change and no emission standards to meet, no exhaust, comparatively little maintenance ... and no emissions! The cost of operating a ZENN is just over two cents per mile (fuel efficiency is equivalent to 280 miles per gallon) and the cars are typically very inexpensive to insure. The low cost of operating a ZENN, the low initial purchase price, and its exceptionally small carbon footprint deliver guilt-free savings for years to come.ABOUT ZENN MOTOR COMPANYZENN Motor Company, Toronto, Canada, is dedicated to being the global leader in zero emission transportation solutions for markets around the world. Driven by quality, ingenuity, and a philosophy of social responsibility, the ZMC team is redefining what is possible in both urban and business fleet transportation.The ZENN(TM) (Zero Emission No Noise) provides an excellent alternative transportation solution for environmentally conscious drivers who want to dramatically reduce their operating costs and free themselves from dependence on oil. The current ZENN low speed vehicle is perfect for urban commuters and commercial fleets such as resorts, gated communities, airports, college and business campuses, municipalities, and parks and is sold through a network of retailers across the United States and directly by the Company in Quebec.

Sixth Generation Golf and GTI Unveiled at New York Auto Show

Auto Show NEW YORK, April 8 -- The all-new Golf and GTI made their U.S. debut at the 2009 New York International Auto Show. Both vehicles feature an all-new exterior design, improved interior refinements and the sixth generation Golf comes to the U.S. market with the option of the award winning 2.0 TDI clean diesel engine.With a simple, universal, and unmistakable look, the exterior of the Golf and its hot hatch sibling GTI offer a modern version of the classic original. On sale in the U.S. in fall of 2009, they bring to the market a refined and sporty appearance and industry leading powertrains that provides power and style in a versatile and efficient package.For 2010, the Golf will feature the optional 2.0 TDI clean diesel engine, which produces 140-horsepower at 4000 rpm and an impressive 236 lbs.-ft. of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm, bringing a no compromises alternative fuel driving experience to the all new Golf.A perennial award winner, the GTI keeps the options that make it Volkswagen's uber-hatchback while providing an updated look that redefines the classic hot hatch. The 2.0-liter FSI turbocharged four-cylinder engine comes standard with 200 horsepower and 207 lbs.-ft. of torque; with the standard six-speed transmission or the optional six-speed DSG dual clutch transmission it proves to be more than capable at bringing the thrill to the daily commute.Volkswagen has upped the ante with the interior refinement in the Golf and GTI. The Golf's surfaces and features challenge the class distinctions of a small car, both to the touch and visually. The appearance and layout of materials leave the impression that one is actually sitting in a car of a much higher segment. The Golf and GTI continue to highlight Volkswagen's commitment to offer affordable German engineered cars that are fun-to-drive.

Mission Motors Selects Winning Racer Tom Montano as Rider for TTXGP Entry

SAN FRANCISCO, April 8 -- Mission Motors, builder of the world's fastest production electric sportbike, the Mission One, today announced the debut of its Motorsports Program, with veteran motorcycle racer Tom Montano set to pilot the Mission One in the inaugural TTXGP, the world's first carbon-free Grand Prix. The race will take place on the Isle of Man on June 12, 2009.With 25 years of racing experience, Montano, has achieved top-level finishes at the AMA, AFM, WERA, FIM & the Isle of Man. He also holds the distinction of being one of the fastest Americans around the Isle of Man TT course. Mission Motors will enter the Mission One in the Pro A class of the inaugural TTXGP."We are proud to have such an accomplished rider on board for our racing debut. Tom's racing experience and history at the TT coupled with our innovations in electric propulsion will be a winning combination for the team," said Forrest North, Mission Motors Founder and CEO. "This is a great opportunity to show the world that you can build a zero emissions sportbike without sacrificing power and top performance."Mission Motors has targeted high performance and iconic design in the development of its first vehicle, the Mission One. With a top speed of 150 mph, a 150-mile range and unparalleled access to torque, the Mission One surpasses the performance figures of other production electric motorcycles and gives chase to gas-powered in*****bents. The Mission One's design, created by Yves Behar and fuseproject, blends traditional racing elements with a modern pioneering sensibility.Montano's previous Isle of Man race experience includes 10th in Supersport, 13th in the Senior TT, and numerous top 20 finishes. His AMA pedigree includes 2001 Pro Thunder Champion, 3rd in 2002 Pro Thunder championship, and numerous top ten finishes in Superbike and Supersport. These are in addition to his multiple AFM class championships of 600 Production, Open Production, and Open Twins."I'm thrilled to be a part of Mission Motors' team for this history-making event," said Montano. "We've put the Mission One through its paces in testing and I'm confident that we'll make history on June 12th."

Toyota Recognizes Norfolk Southern With Logistics Awards

NORFOLK, Va., April 8 -- Toyota Logistics Services has awarded Norfolk Southern Corporation the 2008 President's Award for overall logistics excellence among rail carriers, its highest award given to a logistics provider.The award is based on overall performance in customer service, on-time performance, and quality. Norfolk Southern has received the President's Award six times since the program began in 1996."For more than two decades, Norfolk Southern has been a strong logistics partner with Toyota," said David Julian, NS president, automotive and supply chain services. "We remain committed to that partnership, and we look forward to continuing to meet Toyota's high standards for excellence by providing safe, damage-free, on-time service."Norfolk Southern also received Toyota's individual Excellence Award for best On-Time Delivery among rail carriers and its top Award for Quality, which recognizes damage-free handling of Toyota's vehicles.Norfolk Southern transported 552,000 Toyota vehicles in 2008, including those originating from NS-served plants in Georgetown, Ky., Lafayette, Ind., and Princeton, Ind. Georgetown produces the Camry, Avalon, Solara, and Venza. Lafayette produces the Camry, and Princeton produces the Sienna minivan and Sequoia SUV and will begin producing the Highlander crossover utility vehicle in 2009.

Death of Angels Adenhart by Suspected Repeat Drunk Driver Shows the Need for I

LOS ANGELES, April 10 -- The suspected drunk driving crash that led to the death of three innocent people including Los Angeles Angels pitcher Nick Adenhart and the serious injury of another could have been prevented with a strong ignition interlock law in California."Our hearts go out to all of the families and friends impacted by the alleged drunk driving crash that killed Los Angeles Angels pitcher Nick Adenhart," said Laura Dean-Mooney, MADD National President. "Any drunk driving death means a life-long sentence of grief for families and loved ones."Ignition Interlock Legislation in CaliforniaThanks to the leadership of Assemblyman Mike Feuer (D-LA), California has a chance to make real progress in its effort to stop drunk driving. Assemblyman Feuer has introduced a bill (AB 91) that will require all convicted drunk drivers in four California counties to have ignition interlock devices for a minimum of six months as a condition to driving. The four counties are Los Angeles, Alameda, San Diego and Sacramento.Despite its limited reach, the bill will have a broad impact on drunk driving in California as these four counties alone accounted for about 40 percent of California's 2007 DUI arrests. In 2007, 1,155 Californians were killed by drunk drivers and 509 of these came from the four counties covered by AB 91. The bill will be heard before the Assembly Public Safety Committee on Tuesday, April 14.According to the Associated Press, the suspected offender has a previous DUI conviction and was driving on a suspended license. This is not uncommon. Research shows that 50 to 75 percent of drunk drivers whose licenses are suspended continue to drive anyway. Ignition interlocks are proven to reduce repeat drunk driving offenses by 64 percent on average."Why didn't that guy have an interlock on his car? That is the question every Californian should ask their legislator," said Dean-Mooney.Californians are sharing the road with 310,971 convicted drunk drivers with three or more DUI convictions and 44,210 of those people have five or more convictions, according to a study released by MADD last year based upon data from the U.S. Department of Transportation.In addition to MADD, many other groups support AB 91 including Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC), Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs, Los Angeles Police Department, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Nurses Association, California Hospital Association, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, John Muir Medical Center, City of Beverly Hills, City of Los Angeles, San Diego County Board of Supervisors, Association of California Insurance Companies, AAA of Northern CA and Automobile Club of Southern CA.An alcohol ignition interlock, paid for by the convicted drunk driver, is a breath test device linked to a vehicle's ignition system. When a convicted drunk driver wishes to start his or her vehicle, he or she must first blow into the device, but the vehicle will not start if the driver has alcohol in his or her system.

The World of Harley-Davidson

The World of Harley-Davidson "If you have to ask ..." said the Harley-Davidson slogan, "...you wouldn't understand." Just what is it that makes Harley-Davidson so special? The company makes motorcycles, true, but it is much more than a mere motorcycle manufacturer - Milwaukee makes legends. The company that has become an American icon crafts heavy metal into love affairs, forges lifestyles and fulfils dreams. As much myth as motorcycle - often imitated, never copied - there is simply nothing quite like if a Harley-Davidson.Today, Harleys are as recognizable around the world as the Stars and Stripes, as ubiquitous as McDonald's and as prized for their rugged honesty as Zippo lighters and Levis. They appear in movies and advertising; they're the wheels of choice for celebrities and stars. Elvis owned one and, according to the T-shirt at least, God rides one too. Men have raced them almost as soon as the first one came out of the shop. They have been a unique facet of American life through two world wars and a crippling Depression. Harley-Davidsons is the longest history in motorcycling, almost the story of motorcycling itself, and The World of Harley-Davidson is the epic tale of the making of an American legend.

Special exhibition highlight

To the right, in the North Tower, is the Third Special Exhibition of racing bikes and cars, detailing "The Dreams, The Spirit, The Technology"of Honda motor sports. It traces Honda's progress from a maker who bought a 1956 125cc Mondial (also displayed) to study world-class technology, to a company that would quickly lead design trends itself. During the '50s and '60s, Honda's engines grew in complexity from two to five and even six cylinders. In 1954, the ambitious automotive company announced that they would compete in the prestigious Isle of Man motorcycle race. Their first attempt, in 1959, earned them the team prize for durability. Outright victory eluded them until 1961, when Honda trounced the opposition by taking the top five positions in the 125cc and 250cc classes. In 1966, Honda won all five classes after also entering a 500cc bike. In all, 24 bikes are displayed, including those ridden by Barry Sheene and Mike Hailwood. It's amazing that 500cc bikes dating back to the '70s were able to achieve speeds of up to 280km/h. The smallest bike is a 50cc Honda RC115, winner of five out of seven rounds in the 1965 World Championship series. There are also a couple of Formula 1 racers and the superficially similar Indy open-wheelers. One of the most famous cars is Ayrton Senna's 1988 McLaren Honda, which dominated the 1988 F1 series, winning fifteen out of sixteen GPs. The performance of these cars is awesome, achieving 300km/h top speeds from 1500cc twin turbo engines mounted in cars weighing less than 600kg. The Indy cars are similar, but with 2650cc single turbo engines.
Honda was the first Japanese manufacturer to compete in Indy car racing, and their inaugural entry, raced at Surfer's Paradise in 1994, is on show. A sound effects booth gives some indication of the noise all these machines make, although their real life scream is generally a lot louder

CARS & BIKES

From lawnmowers to racing cars, Honda Collection Hall has it all. Located in the massive Twin Ring motor sports complex in the small town of Motegi in Tochigi Prefecture, this impressive museum makes it easy for anyone to track Honda's illustrious history, with multilingual pamphlets and English descriptions of the exhibits. Honda's massive edifice consists of two giant three level wings connected by a soaring atrium. The entrance foyer is particularly monumental, with a pair of racing bikes from 1954 mounted on a circular sculpture-like display stand. One of them is a 1954 Honda R125, the first domestically produced machine to compete overseas. It was carefully reconstructed from parts found in Brazil. On the sculpture's flip side is an Agusta, entered in the same 1954 Brazil International Race as the Honda. In the same area is the 1924 Curtiss Special, a 160km/h racer powered by a testosterone-busting 8237cc aircraft engine and built by Honda founder Soichiro Honda when he was an assistant working for another company. One of the Bugattis that inspired Honda when he saw them at the Tama River Speedway in 1936 stands next to the Curtiss.

Chinese cars win increasing buyers in ME, N Africa markets

CAIRO, Dec. 26 (Xinhua) -- For years, consumers in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) have become used to buying small and low-tech made-in-China commodities. But now, they are showing increasing interest in trying something bigger -- China's home-grown sedans. Within just several years, cars with Chinese brands are quickly leaving their own marks on streets in MENA countries, from Jordan to Egypt, which had been traditionally dominated by cars from Europe, Japan and South Korea. Like many other made-in-China goods, Chinese brand cars have a formidable edge over their competitors with lower prices and high quality. In the Jordanian capital Amman, Ala Suleiman who had just by a Chery sedan told Xinhua that he chose Chery because of its competitive price, soft installment payment and fuel economy. Chery Automobile Co. Ltd., one of the biggest home-grown carmakers in China, began to sell its car in Jordan about three years ago. And by now, Chery has sold more than 3,000 units in this Arabnation, said Moutaz al-Shaweish, sales manager of the franchise store set up by Chery Jordan Company Ltd. Such sales volume was quite satisfactory given the fact that Chery, as a newcomer in the world's fiercely-competitive auto industry, was totally unknown in the Jordanian car market several years ago, said al-Shaweish. "Actually, we were (then) facing many difficulties to convince consumers to buy our cars when they were offered for the first time in the market," al-Shaweish recalled. But now, "we are not facing such difficulties as Chery isgrowing stronger and more competitive. Jordanians are willing to buy (Chery cars) for their quality and prices," he told Xinhua, adding that Chery car prices were competitive in comparison withany other brand including those from South Korea. Eng. Mohamed al-Qalam, chairman of Chery Jordan Company Ltd., said that demand for Chinese-made cars, including Chery, was remarkably good in Jordan this year. "Chery gave consumers freedom of movement and choice in addition to specifications which meet demands of low-income brackets," al-Qalam told Xinhua. Chinese Cars chery geely nanjing hafei zhonghua SAIC lifan zhongxing great wall motor FAW MG Rover Dongfeng Changfeng China Auto
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Sunday, December 02, 2007

China Auto Controversy in Europe
The trucks were widely panned at the 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show in September as being shameless copies of the BMW X5 and Toyota RAV4. China Auto's vehicles seemed to draw more attention from corporate lawyers than any potential customers. Plans to import the Smart Fortwo-aping Noble city car have already been put on indefinite hold following legal threats from Smart's parent company, Mercedes-Benz. The Noble was a notable no-show in Frankfurt.However, Karl Schlössel, chief executive of Augsburg-based China Automobile, recently told Inside Line that 1,700 vehicles will soon be arriving from China and for sale in Europe by early to mid-December. Built by Shuanghuan Automobile in Shijiazhuang, China, the CEO and UFO are sold in their home market as the Shuanghuan SCEO and the Laibao.

Chinese Cars spark in South Afican Auto Market more and more

We may set up a manufacturing plant in South Africa,” says Geely South Africa chairperson Jacqui van Heerden. “If we achieve sales of around 10 000 units a year, we’ll consider it. Markets such as the US and Europe may also offer lucrative export opportunities.”Geely is only one in a series of Chinese vehicles which have entered the country over the last two years, all through entrepreneurs aiming to snatch market share in the largest economy in Africa.Geely’s plans are indicative of a new phase in Chinese vehicle manufacturing. It’s no longer only about making and selling vehicles in China. It’s about making and selling vehicles in China, and everywhere else in the world. And not a Chinese-made Honda or Ford either, but a true Chinese brand.Geely is one of the first movers in this regard. It can afford to do this as it has no bureaucratic ties.Geely is privately owned, with no shareholding by the Chinese govern- ment – which erases the argument of unfair competition owing to State subsidies. (The only other privately owned Chinese vehicle manufacturer, Chery, will start exporting vehicles to South Africa later this year, with the distribution rights going to McCarthy.)What this means for Geely South Africa is that the Chinese parent company holds a direct stake in the local company, as it considers South Africa an important part of its future export growth strategy.Geely South Africa is, therefore, 40% owned by the Chinese parent company, and 60% by local company TJM Holdings.Van Heerden says TJM Holdings looked at trends worldwide, and decided “that Chinese vehicles are going to be the next big thing”.JAPAN, KOREA, CHINA?These days, South African business says ‘China’ is preceded by the same audible gasp once reserved for South Korea or Malaysia, or any other so-called Asian tiger.

Chinese cars gear up for emerging Philippine market

That was the first sentence from Wang Juhui, a representative from China-based Lifan Motors, at the launch of the auto brand's first showroom in the Philippines' capital of Metro Manila. With the young and energetic assistant general manager, there came the LF520 mid-size sedan, a car model exported to more than 50 other countries, including Australia, Germany, Spain, Russia, Vietnam, Iran, Chile and Venezuela. Dubbing LF520 as a "World Car," Wang said that the engine was designed by the renowned automobile design firm Ricardo Plc. Based in the United Kingdom. And Italian designers were employed by the manufacturer so that the model became top of the line in the looks department. "We want to keep the design of the car sleek and stylish to appeal to the young at heart. It is loaded with features that will definitely appeal to the adventurous spirit," said William Agcaoili, general manager of Lifan Cars Philippines, the manufacturer's partner in the Philippines. Lifan Motors, a motorcycle manufacturer-turned car company like Honda, entered the global passenger car industry in March 2007 with the release of the LF520 in Vietnam. In 2008, the company sold over 20,000 units in markets outside China. Today, it "sailed" to the Philippine archipelago to seek new opportunities. As explained, the Lifan logo means "powerful sailing boat." Last year, the Philippines posted a 5.6-percent growth of auto sales despite the global financial crisis. The sales reached 124,449 units in 2008, compared to the previous year's 117,903. "We are bringing the LF520 in the Philippines so that Filipinos can also enjoy our world-class vehicle which is priced more affordably," said Nelson Ong, president of Lifan Cars Philippines. The price is expected to be set around 500,000 pesos (10,600 U.S. dollars) for the 1.3-litre model.

Cherry Automobile

Chery Automobile is an automobile manufacturer in People's Republic of China. It is owned by the local government of Wuhu, and produced about 188,000 vehicles in 2005. Chery was founded in 1997 to prop up the economy in remote Wuhu. The company was not able to obtain a license to produce vehicles for sale in all of China, but was saved by an order for taxis by the local government. In 2001, Shanghai Automotive Industry Company (SAIC) invested in the company, allowing it to use SAIC's national retail sales license. In 2003, Chery founded a research and development organization, quickly designing its own 3- and 4-cylinder engines. However, Chery was also sued by GM Daewoo for copying that company's Chevrolet Spark (a.k.a. Daewoo Matiz). Chery claims that they licensed the vehicle design prior to General Motors' purchase of Daewoo. Chery was able to scout a number of key engineers from South Korea's Daewoo motor during its bankruptcy proceeding in 2001~2002, who took a complete set of plans with them and went on to create Daewoo vehicles at Chery. The copied vehicles are Daewoo Matiz(Chery QQ) mini car and Daewoo Magnus(Chery Oriental Son) mid-size sedan. They are exact replicas of Daewoos, being able to swap door panels and key components between them. Both Matiz and Magnus are currently sold as Chevrolets outside of South Korea and Vietnam. Its expected that the Chery QQ wil hit the markets in europe in 2006, the introduction price is expected at 5000,= Euro's, making it the cheapest car in Europe together with the Dacia Logan. In 2005, Chery started export of right hand drive vehicles to Malaysia. The rebadged Chery A15, is to be powered by BMWs Tritec engine. Despite its humble beginning, Chery has achieved many unlikely breakthroughs and become the fastest growing independent automaker in China. Chery is committed to developing world-class automobiles via cooperation with top engineering firms such as Lotus Engineering of the U.K, and Mitsubishi Automotive Engineering of Japan, and leading auto designing firms such as Bertone and Pininfarina of Italy. In its relentless pursuit of quality, Chery adopts DURR Paint Systems in its paint shop in 2004. In 2005, as a groundbreaking event for Chinese automotive industry, Chery starts producing China¡¯s first high-performance Euro IV engines in cooperation with AVL List of Austria. In addition, in J.D.Power 2004 China Initial Quality Study, Chery QQ finishes NO.1 in compact car segment. With an ambition to become a global player, Chery has so far launched its products in 29 countries. For the time being, Chery is developing a new line-up of products aiming at auto markets in the U.S and EU. In 2005, a strategic partnership is formed between Chery and Vesionary Vehicles of the USA for launching Chery products in North America in 2007.

Birth Of Automobiles

Horses had dreams of them since time immemorial, but it was only in the 18th century that the first horseless carriage actually hit the roads. That's not to say that the idea never struck anyone. Seeds of the idea, in fact, originated long before the first contraption was rolled.

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The History of the automobile actually began about 4,000 years ago when the first wheel was used for transportation in India. Several Italians recorded designs for wind-driven cars. The first was Guido da Vigevano in 1335. It was a windmill-type drive to gears and thus to wheels. Vaturio designed a similar car that was also never built. Later Leonardo da Vinci designed clockwork-driven tricycle with tiller steering and a differential mechanism between the rear wheels.
In the early 15th century, the Portuguese arrived in China and the interaction of the two cultures led to a variety of new technologies, including the creation of a wheel that turned under its own power. By the 1600s, small steam-powered engine models were developed, but it was another century before a full-sized engine-powered automobile was created.
A Catholic priest named Father Ferdinan Verbiest is credited to have built a steam-powered car for the Chinese Emperor Chien Lung in about 1678. There is no information about the automobile , only the event. Since James Watt didn't invent the steam engine until 1705, we can guess that this was possibly a model automobile powered by a mechanism like Hero's steam engine-a spinning wheel with jets on the periphery.
Although by the mid-15th century the idea of a self-propelled automobile had been put into practice with the development of experimental car is powered by means of springs, clockworks, and the wind, Nicolas-Joseph Cugnot of France is considered to have built the first true automobile in 1769. Designed by Cugnot and constructed by M. Brezin, it is also the first automobile to move under its own power for which there is a record. Cugnot's three-wheeled steam-powered automobile carried four persons and was meant to move artillery pieces. It had a top speed of a little more than 3.2 km/h (2 mph) and had to stop every 20 minutes to build up a fresh head of steam.
Evans was the first American who obtained a patent for "a self-propelled carriage." He, in fact, attempted to create a two-in-one combination of a steam wagon and a flat-bottomed boat, which didn't receive any attention in those days. During the 1830's, the steam car had made great advances. But stiff competition from railway companies and crude legislations in Britain forced the poor steam automobile gradually out of use on roads. The early steam-powered automobile s were so heavy that they were only practical on a perfectly flat surface as strong as iron. A road thus made out of iron rails became the norm for the next hundred and twenty-five years. The automobile s got bigger and heavier and more powerful and as such they were eventually capable of pulling a train of many car s filled with freight and passengers.

Automobiles

The useful information about automobile in India is that knowledge, which the vehicle owner must possess for a more fruitful and hassle free driving experience. The Indian automobile information guide includes a factual knowledge relating to the vehicle's engineering, its maintenance, and automobile insurance.
Left Hand Drive
Foreigners must note that the International Driver's License (IDL) is recognized for driving inside Indian territory. One useful information about automobile driving in India is that cars are driven on the left side of the road.
Motor Policy
Know your Car
Modern Suspension System
Development in Transmission system
The Electrical system
Maintenance
Tips
The Particulars
The list of useful information relating to automobile in India is its maintenance and preventive care. Tips on maintaining essential automotive components like engine oil, air filter, belts, and lights are also given. Essential information on automobiles like the correct tyre pressure, shock absorbers, and water balance is also to be found.

Automobile History

By definition an automobile or car is a wheeled vehicle that carries its own motor and transports passengers. The automobile as we know it was not invented in a single day by a single inventor. The history of the automobile reflects an evolution that took place worldwide.
It is estimated that over 100,000 patents created the modern automobile. You can point to the many firsts that occurred along the way to producing the modern car; and with that goal in mind, highlighted below are articles, biographies, timelines, and photo galleries related to the history of the automobile and its many inventors.
A multi-part feature on the history of automobiles starting with the first steam, electrical, and gasoline-engine cars. Learn the controversy behind what was the first car in history and the importance of the internal combustion engine. The lives of many famous automotive makers are explored in detail with special pages on the assembly line, the origins of the name automobile, the patent disputes, and more.

The Future of Cars

http://http://library.thinkquest.org/26471/thepast4.html
1960
80% of U.S. families have cars.
1961
Warranties are extended to at least 12,000 miles/12 months.
1963
The first emission controls are mandated, to keep the rising emissions of pollution down ( duh ).
1964
All new American cars have front seatbelts standard. Incidentally, crash test dummies were introduced around this time.

A 1964 Lincoln Continental.
1966
Rear seat belts become standard in the United States.
1968
Front shoulder harnesses are required in addition to seatbelts, in America. All the recent developments in safety devices were evidence of the growing speeds of cars.

A 1970 Cadillac Coupe DeVille.
1971
Emission controls are on their way up, horsepower is on its way down, and muscle cars are on their way out.
1973
Chevrolets are offered with air bags, but there are few takers. Remember when no one bothered about seat belts? Hmm..
1974
Traffic deaths are reduced by the new 55 m.p.h. speed limit in the United States.
1975
U.S. domestic cars install catalytic converters to cut emissions.

A Chevrolet Corvette.. in the 90s!
1984
Chryslers launches the modern minivan.
1986
Center-mounted brake lights are mandated.
1999
Hey.. 1999 is this year! It doesn't belong to the past... if you wanna know more about cars today, well, you know where to click.

BMW X6 SUV Review

BMW has fashioned an innovative model in the new launch BMW X6 Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV). This model is a kind of inter-hybrid of an SUV mixed with an elegant vehicle. By means of its modish attractive looks it is having a distinct personality; BMW X6 is a perfect car to merge in your work life along with your personal play times. It is uniquely equipped with the versatility as well as ease by which it gets transformed. BMW X6 comes in two basic models first one the X-Drive 35i and the other one is X-Drive50i. Out of which the X-Drive 35i is very speedy equipped with a 300 horsepower engine, providing one with combination of great speed and agility. One always tend to think of this combination whenever talking about BMW.
Whereas on the other hand, X-Drive 50i takes over X-35i because of its extreme engine power and enhanced accelerating potentials. X-Drive 50i is equipped with turbo-charged V8 enhancement furthermore having 400 horsepower engine. It is for sure that this BMW will drive over all other same class vehicles right off this map. If one is looking for a combination of speed and high torque, then there search ends here as it excels in both the levels.
The BMW X6 is entirely appealing and substantial classed vehicle, intended for upper class people only. X6 is ready to take you everywhere you wish to go. However all of us must be pondering that except speed what all can this car help you in? Then here are few more places where it can help you over:-
Living luxuriously- BMW and X6 both promises to keep your life sitting and surrounded in luxuries. The Vibrant performance power control formulates this car to drive on itself. It presents a perfect drive which rather then only being sensible suiting any part of your lifestyle also provides with true fun of driving. Having a power moon roof sheds giving fine glow to the leather upholstery which one will sink into while sitting over it.
Travel- It promises to keep you safe even on travel as it is equipped with 6 airbags also we are known that BMW is very renowned with its electronic stability control. It is having plenty space in it for a family of 4 as well as having all traveling gear one needs.
Drive Off The Road- Killer looks of BMW X6 looks are about too perfect that they take over your consideration. But after that it is for sure that this vehicle is prepared to grip even in the toughest landscapes. With its flattering sporty handling one will feel as if sailing over the most tremendous road conditions. One can even crowd it up with luggage as this vehicle has a power lift gate which automatically unlocks itself to disclose the cargo area and easily storing all your off road gears.
On the whole we can say that BMW X6 brings about the elevated standards one is always expecting from BMW commonly tagged as “Vehicle Running in Dreams”.