2014 Honda CB1100 Ride and Review
Jason Ennis reviews the 2014 Honda CB1100. Check out the quick video.
2014 Yamaha Motorcycle Dealer Show - Las Vegas, NV
This is the first dealer show in several years for Yamaha. They wanted to make sure their dealers and customers knew they were 100% committed to the future growth and success of the Brand. 2014 is just the start for Yamaha and Star Motorcycles. If you like exciting new bikes, The next 5 years are going to be fun! Check out some photos from the show floor.
Ride on!
Jason Ennis, GM
Kenny Steinke Freestyle MX Rider Suffers Serious Injury
Our good friend and sponsored rider, Kenny Steinke, was seriously injured while performing a FMX show in Augusta, Georgia. Currently, he is at the Georgia Regents Medical Center and remains in critical condition.
Kenny Steinke has always been a crowd favorite.[/caption]According to the Augusta Chronicle, Kenny was attempted a jump when he lost control of his motorcycle and struck the ramp.
We hope that all of you will pray for Kenny and his family, as well as give them support. If you'd like to donate to help with his medical expenses, you may do so directly on his personal website, downsideupfmx.com. You also may send a donation via PayPal directly to: downsideupfmx@yahoo.com.
We will update this post as we receive any updates from the family. Thanks so much in advance for your kindness and generosity toward the Steinke in this very difficult time.
UPDATE: 5/1/13 - 7:30 PM - According to a local news affiliate, Kenny's condition has been upgraded from critical to serious. Said teammate Travis Willis, "Kenny's in stable condition. He's doing better day by day. He's breathing on his own. He's moving both arms, both legs. He has opened his eyes. So, each day gets better and better."
2013 Honda CB1100 First Impressions
Where do “Old School” and “New Age” meet? Out on the road and at Central Florida PowerSports where the all-new Retro looking Honda CB 1100 just came in.
This bike is a very cool blend of Old School and New Age benefits built on the same architecture as the CB 750 with came out in 1969 but with modern benefits such as fuel injection and a powerful 1140 cc engine.
This awesome machine is seemingly timeless and inspiring. After sitting on it for a few minutes, I can picture myself leaving in the morning on this bike and not returning until the sun goes down or I run out of road. Plenty of power to cruise the highways alone or carry a passenger for an afternoon cruise around town.
From the Honda website: “With its exposed, air-cooled engine, steel chassis, minimal bodywork and standard riding position, the CB1100 looks like a modern classic. But one ride will tell you this is a totally modern machine, with great handling and plenty of power. That's the Honda way - combining innovation and performance with style and function.”
“There’s something about a good, twin-loop full-cradle steel chassis in basic black that not only looks great, but offers plenty of modern chassis geometry too. You’ll find the new CB1100 handles as well as it looks.”
“The CB1100 features front and rear disc brakes, and the thoroughly modern option of Honda’s Combined Anti-lock Brake System. That makes for powerful, sure stops. Because you never know what the open road is going to throw at you.”
From motorcycl.usa: “Honda aims to bring back an old classic with a new twist in the form of the 2013 CB1100. “Timeless Look, Inspired Performance” - these are the key words Honda Motorcycles uses when describing its new retro-styled machine. The timeless look refers to the bikes styling, featuring the perfect balance of old school and new school. A relaxed standard seating position allows for diverse riding styles for any kind of environment. The fuel tank retains a classic shape to match the older yet classy styling of the handlebar bend, instrument cluster and tail assembly and really brings out the early Honda four-cylinder trends.”
If you have any doubts, or as I suspect are intrigued by this cool machine, come to Central Florida PowerSports to see and experience it yourself.
2013 Can-Am Spyder RT-S SE-5 Circuit Yellow Metallic - First Impressions
When it comes time to travel down the open road you could pile into your car loaded with all the necessities for the weekend. But a far more alluring way is to climb aboard the all-new 2013 Can-Am Spyder in Circuit Yellow Metallic. A machine with that “wind in your face” feel and the comfort of a luxury car.
2013 SPYDER RT-S SE5 YELLOW
The first thing you notice when the sun hits this beauty is the alluring yellow color popping out to meet your eyes. The new for this year 15” rims and low profile tires in black accent the look even more. Move on to the fenders and the added light strips with brightly lit lights enhance the new curves. Those improvements although subtle, when combined with the classic look of the RT series, make for an elegant looking ride.
15" rim and low profile tire.
Moving on to the way the new Spyder feels is just as exciting. The addition of driver floorboards this year makes for a very comfortable ride. They are not just there for mere looks however. The new floorboards have some very practical functions as well. They feature a “floating” design that helps to absorb the vibrations of the road and reduce fatigue. They also feature a “break away” feature where in an aggressive braking situation the floorboards drop down away from the brake allowing you to keep pressure on the brake pedal. They simply snap back into place after. As always the Spyder features a very comfortable and supportive seat for both driver and passenger, making those longer trips something to look forward to.
Rubber mounted floating design with "break away" feature floorboard
New this year is a redesigned chassis that delivers even more comfort and performance for the touring enthusiasts. It features a revamped front-end geometry and new suspension that delivers confidence and comfort. Our dedicated Spyder Technician Justin Hintz has said that the new suspension is very similar to the 2012 and prior year models with the upgraded Elka Shocks. The cornering and handling of the new suspension is superb.
Also new this year is a full Brembo braking system with larger calipers and brake discs. Combine this with a next generation Bosch abs system and you get a Spyder RT with a 10% improvement in braking distance.
Combine all the new features and improvements with the already ahead of the game features such as electronically adjustable air rear suspension, semi auto transmission, cruise control am-fm radio with I-pod integration. Add to that cavernous storage space, and an electric adjustable windshield not to mention separate audio controls and heated grips for the driver and passenger and see if you can come up with a good reason not to ride. I know I can’t.
Albert D. Jones, Sales Consultant
Battery Basics. A Buyer's Guide for Motorcycle Batteries.
Buying a motorcycle battery.
Dark science? Maybe not.
Motorcycle batteries operate on the same principle as their car counterparts. There are the conventional ones that have cells that hold metal plates in an acidic electrolyte solution and require periodic maintenance (always maintain the correct level on the electrolyte solution to prolong the life on the unit).
The second type are Gel or Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) technology. These are also known as “maintenance free”, because they eliminate water evaporation and will maintain the proper level. They still should be checked for corrosion and loose bolts which will prevent them from charging properly.
The third type are lithium ion batteries which are new for motorcycles but have been in the car market for some time. One of the main advantages of this type of battery is the lack of weight, (they could be up to 10lbs lighter) and in some cases about 80% smaller also. These batteries are expensive thou and require special chargers in some cases. Which brings us to the next chapter.
So, how long is a battery supposed to last? This is a question that we hear a lot here at Central Florida PowerSports and, a very good one. It largely depends on what kind of care you give your battery and the quality of the product. It is not unheard of for a high end battery to last around 3 to 4 years (some customers have seen as much as 5, but that is extraordinary). The old saying of “You get what paid for” applies here. Known brands like “Yuasa” usually have better materials and craftsmanship that will ensure a longer and trouble free life.
Bear in mind that even temperature changes will affect the life cycle of a battery. Extreme heat and cold are variables that will definitely have an effect on how long you will be able to enjoy it.
Most customers don't understand a new bike charging system is designed for minimum weight and specific outputs. Which means that if they install any extras, like lights (even LEDs), MP3s and GPS units, they might not be able to cope with the extra drain and the battery will not last as long as it could. Also if the unit is going to be stored for an extended period of time (more than 2 weeks) it is recommended that a battery tender(not to be confused with a trickle charger) is used to keep the battery ready for the next time you want to enjoy your motorcycle. There are some very good ones on the market such as the Deltan Battery Tender Junior and at a very reasonable price. So, follow some simple rules and common sense and you won't have to worry if your bike will start the next time.
Keep your tires on the ground and enjoy the ride!
EL FIN
Carlos A Mendoza
Product Specialist
Jennings Track Day
Jennings GP Track Day “Something for Everyone”
Ever thought about doing a track day? Taking your everyday ride to a place you can open it up without the limitations of driving on the street. I had that experience just recently and wanted to share it with anyone who has the desire but was held back by the fear of not knowing what the experience might be like.
I took my brand new Honda CB1000R to Jennings GP in Jennings, Florida. To go find out what it was like to put it on the track. I was apprehensive at first getting out on the track with other novice riders but made the first lap and settled in quickly. They have 3 classes, novice, intermediate, and expert. I thought being new to the experience even the novice level would be too much. Turns out, novice was nothing to be intimidated about. The other riders on the track were all at different skill levels even within this class. I rode very cautiously but as the laps went by I gained more confidence, pushing my Honda to go faster and faster! Because every rider on the track is on the throttle and moving in the same direction you can go faster and still maintain safety.
So what do you need to put your bike on the track? I had decided to prep my CB1000R so that in the outside chance I went down there wouldn’t be damage to expensive components. I pulled my gauge cluster, taped up my plastic lenses and your oil drain plug must be safety wired. Other than that the bike was good to go. My stock Bridgstone Battlax tires were more than adequate for the super sticky surface we were to ride on. You are required to wear a Snell full face helmet, full race leathers, gloves and footwear. These items can be rented as well as racing bikes ready to go. The cost of a bike rental is $200.00 day which gets you a bike, fuel and tires. The cost of the track use for the day is $200.00 which gets you 6 to 7 twenty minute sessions.
Looking back now and reflecting on the experience I can honestly recommend it to anyone of every skill level. It is truly is the safest place to experience the true potential of your bike!
Jonnathan Fabre
Central Florida Powersports
“Product Specialist”
Moto-Lisa Jacket and Vest
Moto-Lisa Textile Leather Jacket & Vest
Fellow Lady Riders! Lets talk about the new 2013 Speed & Strength Line for Women’s protective gear. I can honestly say most women’s protective gear comes with pretty basic formats & colors. You have your white, pink, black, the occasional purple, and red. But Speed & Strengths Brand New 2013 Moto-Lisa Jacket and Vest have really stepped outside the box with this one. It defines a certain elegance that a female rider is looking for in order to be differentiated from the typical male rider.
It is embroidered on the front and back of the jacket with its own very unique design, and has elegantly designed buckles on both sides of the Jacket. The AR-600 Frame with Leather trim is Water resistant. All the armor in the jacket is easily removed with Velcro enclosures for easy cleaning of the jacket when necessary. The C.E. approved Spine protector is also removable as well. The Jacket has a fully sleeved liner which is removable as well to make the jacket cooler in hot temperatures so you can still be protected and keep cool at the same time as everyone knows in Florida the heat here is NO JOKE!
Also Ladies, believe it or not there is matching Moto-Lisa Jeans that you can also purchase to go with your Jacket which is also another feature on the Jacket it has belt loops for the attaching the pants to the jacket. The Collar & Cuffs are micro fiber lined for ideal comfort, and like any other motorcycle jacket it comes with reflective trim as an added safety feature for when your driving at night so that people will be able to visibly see you.
Now Introducing you to Speed & Strengths New Moto-Lisa Vest
I have to be honest when I originally purchased the product the first thing I thought was “Wow I Love the design, and the style of it!” It just really called out to me and I am the type of person that if I’m going to buy something I want to make sure I look real good in it. Which I’m sure is most women we always think first “Does this look appealing on me? Does it make me look attractive?” Well as I so stated about my Moto-Lisa Jacket I will say the same for the Vest it offers a superior elegance with the 3D embroidered art on the front and back of the vest with elegantly designed buckles for a female rider while still providing all the protection that your looking for.
Even though the vest is sleeveless and the features of the vest differ from the Jacket it still has its definite qualities. A negative for a very safe rider would obviously be the fact that your arms are not protected if you go down. But there is always other accessories that are offered so u can still have that protection if you feel you need it and want it.
Now as for the positive side the vest is made with a Soft Sheepskin Leather Frame which makes the vest very lightweight so you don’t feel weighed down at all. Also like the Jacket it has a C.E. approved Spine protector which is enclosed with Velcro and easily removed if needed.
The Vest also features perforated Leather panels for Awesome ventilation if I say so myself it is a full mesh liner on the inside of the vest. Finally for the nighttime female rider it does have reflective trim for easy visibility.
[dropcap]I [/dropcap]purchased both products; I am thoroughly happy with them and enjoy switching off between the two. So Ladies if you're looking for a great product and are looking for that touch of elegance as well I highly recommend Speed & Strengths 2013 Moto-Lisa Jacket & Vest.
By: Amiee Callahan
Retail Merchandiser at Central Florida Powersports & Fellow Rider
Yamaha Introduces new 2013 FJR1300A Sport Tourer and refined 2013 FZ8 Sport Bike
Yamaha is excited to introduce the new Yamaha 2013 FJR1300A Supersport Tourer and the refined 2013 FZ8 Sport bike for the upcoming 2013 season!
The FJR1300A has long been known for its tremendous open road performance and sport touring capability and features one of the strongest power plants in the industry.
For 2013, the FJR1300A receives many significant changes including dramatically updated styling featuring an improved electronically adjustable windshield, integrated front turn signals, new instrumentation, new YCCT (Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle) system, traction control, Yamaha exclusive “D-mode”, cruise control, heated hand grips, and a host of other refinements guaranteed to propel this incredible machine to the front of the Sport Touring class.
The best selling FZ8 also receives a number of changes adding more adjustability to the front and rear suspension components as well as a styling change that will continue to broaden the appeal of the popular motorcycle.
More detailed information on these two new Yamaha motorcycles, including videos for the FJR1300A is located on the Yamaha website.
http://www.yamaha-motor.com/sport/products/modelvideo/180/1608/0/video.aspx
http://www.yamaha-motor.com/sport/products/modelfeatures/180/0/features.aspx
If are interested in more information about these two new models please call Central Florida PowerSports at 407-847-2453 or send an email to sales@mypowerports.com.
BRP Sea-Doo to Exit the Sport Boat Business
I am sad to deliver this news. Earlier today BRP announce that will no longer produce their Sport Boats. For years Sea-Doo has made some the most exciting boats on the water. I can remember being a teenager in the mid 1990's flying around the lakes of Arkansas in a fire breathing, twin-engines Sea-Doo Jet Boat. Thank you Sea-Doo for making such an amazing product that has brought a ton of pleasure and fun to so many people! We will miss you.
I want all Central Florida PowerSports and West Coast PowerSports customers to know that we are committed to servicing your Sea-Doo Sport Boats/Jet Boats now and into the future. BRP is hosting an all-dealer conference call today at 4PM. I will update this post if there is more information.
Sincerely,
Jason Ennis, GM
Central Florida PowerSports
Letter from BRP:
[quote]Valcourt, September 14, 2012 Dear friends, ® Earlier today, we announced our decision not to resume production of Sea-Doo sport boats for the upcoming model year and take steps to exit that business over the next coming months. At BRP, we manage a diversified product portfolio and our sport boat line-up accounts for a small share of our total sales. This decision will allow us to focus our efforts on products with greater growth potential, which is in the best long-term interests of the company and our network. With the recent downturn in the marine industry, we cannot foresee growth potential in the sport boat business, making it difficult to justify any additional investment. After careful consideration, we concluded that it was better for us to exit the business. This was a very difficult decision, especially given the impact on our employees in Benton (Illinois) and Palm Bay (Florida), the impact on a select group of dealers and distributors, and considering the efforts we made as a company creating the sport boat business. Sincerely, José Boisjoli President and CEO [/quote]