Honda Gold Wing Review - First Ride

Honda’s Gold Wing has for years stood at the pinnacle of the luxury-touring market, providing the best balance of comfort and performance in its class. But that supremacy is now under threat from BMW’s new K1600 GTL that received a very favorable review from Editor Duke a few weeks ago. In the face of increased competition, Honda chose to arm the 2012 Gold Wing with only moderate improvements. This nonchalance begs the question: When will Honda retaliate with a full-model revamp?  Until that event, whenever it may come, “it’s the little things that count” adage will have to suffice for Gold Wing devotees. With Honda providing...

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Harley-Davidson CVO Models Review

Harley-Davidson’s Custom Vehicle Operations, or more commonly, CVO, is the company’s in-house customizing arm. It’s like a company within a company, and Harley employees covet the opportunity to work for this branch of the Motor Company that takes standard Harley models and turns them into something special. CVO bikes start as OE-model Harleys. A dedicated staff then works from the expansive array of goodies from Harley’s P&A (Parts and Accessories) division, as well a few touches exclusive to the CVO line, to craft these run-of-the-mill Harleys into tasteful works of rolling art. The full lineup of 2012 CVO models from Harley. Paint scheme...

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250cc Beginner Bike Shootout

As far as bike tests go, we’re going to go out on a limb and say this is the most important one we’ll do all year – and it’s only February. Why is that? New riders are the holy grail for motorcycle manufacturers. It’s the reason they spend the money they do in advertising and promotions. The goal is to attract new riders to the brand, start them off with something small, like a 250, then keep them coming back and sticking to the brand as they progress through the ranks. Beginner bikes: More than meets the eye If you discount certain standards and cruisers that have popped up throughout the years, for over two decades, Kawasaki has had...

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