Audi

Source :http://www.wallcoo.net/car/audi/index.html

Get size 1024 x 768
http://www.wallcoo.net/car/audi/m01/audi_07.jpg
Source :http://www.wallcoo.net/car/audi/html/image7.html

Ducati 999F03

Source :http://www.wallcoo.net/car/Neil_Hodgson_Ducati/index.html

Get size 1024 x 768
http://www.wallcoo.net/car/Neil_Hodgson_Ducati/m01/ducati_02_10.jpg
Source :http://www.wallcoo.net/car/Neil_Hodgson_Ducati/html/image1.html

Mini Bike Modification Guide

Mini Bike Modification Guide
By Marc Wilton


It is common these days to see mini bikes being sold in stores already with performance parts fitted, such as K&N style air filters and performance exhausts, however there is always still more work to be done to these bikes.

They are incredible easy to work on and with such a basic engine the only knowledge needed to work on them is knowing how to use a spanner or a screwdriver.

Here is a list of modifications recommended in order to increase the overall power of the bike, as well as improving the handling and feel of the bike.

It would be an idea to start modifying the mini bike with the larger mods, as with these more performance is gained for the money spent. The biggest modification which can be done to a Mini bike is to get it bored out to a larger engine displacement. Most of these bikes will come with a 47cc (which is actually only 39cc). These engines can be bored out with a racing kit to 49cc. This will improve the power of the engine due to the larger displacement, improving acceleration and top end.

If the mini bike is already 49cc there are kits for sale which take the engine up to 58cc again having the same effects as before.

The next modification it would be wise to make to the mini bike is with a performance exhaust, these come in many makes and models and each style will have a different output to the next, so it is best to look around before jumping in and buying one straight away.

These exhausts work as they have an expansion chamber, which improves performance on any 2-stroke engine. These exhausts are not usually over expensive; the cheaper systems can be bought for under £50, and go up to over £200 for the more expensive systems. These are great bolt on performance parts, and can improve the acceleration of the bike with higher low and mid range revs, whilst increasing top end by up to 10 mph.

These exhausts will really benefit the bike if it has been bored out as well and the difference in performance will be evidently noticeable.

The next modification which could be made to the carburettor, and increasing air flow through the bike. Firstly, add a free flow air filter,(K&N style ones). This will mean the bike can take in more air, and the rule of thumb for any engine is – increased air intake + increased fuel flow = increased BHP.

Therefore this part will help with the performance of the bike, however if an air filter is fitted then the carb will need to be up jetted in order to cope with the extra air, performance is likely to decrease if these changes aren't made. Buying new jets for the mini bike increases performance as these jets will allow more fuel to be sent through the carburettor. Tuning will need to be done with this to get the air:fuel ratio correct.

It is recommended that if modifying the air and fuel intake of the engine that a carb upgrade is purchased. The standard carburettors in these bikes do not have as many adjustment screws as the performance carbs and therefore cannot be tuned as highly, and the performance benefits will not be as evident.

With these changes the bike should have better throttle response with better acceleration and also higher top end speed. This works very well with the performance exhaust and the extra performance with the bike should be easily recognisable.

Once the Mini bike has been up jetted and a free flow filter and new carb have been fitted then it is time to make some smaller adjustments to fine-tune the bike.

The next adjustment which could be made to the bike would be to add a rocket key, this allows the bikes timing to be improved for pulling away and accelerating, meaning that the throttle response and acceleration will be improved.

It is also likely that the gearing of the bike will need to be changed depending on where it is used. This is mainly done through different sized sprockets, and this will be changed depending on how the rider wants the bike to perform

If a larger sprocket is put on the front or rear of the bike then the top end will be improved whilst making accelerating slightly slower, however if the Mini bike is fitted with smaller sprockets then the acceleration will be improved whilst losing some top end. These sprockets can be changed depending on what track is being raced on.

Due to the modifications made to the bike to improve performance, some other changes will need to be made to the bike so it can cope with the extra power and maintain that good performance. Items such as an NGK spark plug or similar could be used. The standard plugs in Mini bikes are not very reliable and will not be able to cope with the power the bike is producing.

Also doing this will improve the starting of the bike as well as keeping the bike performing at its best all the time. Whilst changing this is it also a good idea to change the lead and coil going to the spark plug for maximum benefits.

Another aspect of the Mini bikes which could be tuned is the clutch system. The clutches on the bikes are automatic centrifugal clutches, which will wear very quickly if modifications are made to the bike. It is advisable to upgrade the clutch to a heavy duty clutch with heavy duty springs, these will last a lot longer and also can improve acceleration and throttle response of the bike.

With all this power now added to the bike it is advisable that you make changes to the brake systems on these bikes. Most of them come with half descent disk brakes anyway but upgrading the brakes may be a good idea, imagine racing around a track doing over 50 mph, and then coming to brake and the brakes just ain't man enough to handle the speed, this is why this change is recommended.

Once all this is done the bike will have been modified a great deal without going too mechanically into it and the extra performance of the bike will leave other bikes standing.

Just remember to always ride on Private land with the owner’s permission and wear protective clothing.

Hi I am Marc Wilton, have been riding Mini Bikes for a few years now. I am currently the editor of mini motos go.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marc_Wilton

Tips Motorcycle

Tips For Painting Your Motorcycle
By Sarah H

Here are some instructions to help you paint your motorcycle yourself and save a bunch of money by doing so.

Materials Needed
Reducer
Plastic Filler
Flowable Putty
Primer and Hardeners
Epoxy Sealer
Base Color Paint
Clear Coat/Hardener
80,120,400,600,1500,2000 grit wet/dry sandpaper

Homemade Paint Booth
To create a homemade paint booth in your garage or shed, here's what you need to do. First, put plastic over all of the walls. This not only protects your walls, but helps to reflect the light so you can see better. Once you have the plastic up, put fans in the windows. Tape around the edge of the fans to seal it to the plastic around them.

You need to make the paint booth as bright as possible so that you can see what you're doing. You can buy temporary fluorescent light fixtures inexpensively at Home Depot or Lowe's. These work great for this sort of project, and they are easy to hook up since they just plug into an outlet or extension cord.

Safety Precautions
There are some things you need to think about before you paint. First of all, paint fumes can be toxic, and they are also flammable. For these reasons, the place where you are painting should not be attached to your house.

If you wire your light fixtures in, make sure that you do it properly. Be sure that you have the covers over the light fixtures to protect them from the paint. You will also need to use a respirator while painting to protect you from the fumes. Make sure the respirator has the right kind of filter for the type of paint you are using.

Paint Equipment
In order to paint your own motorcycle you will need to have at least two paint guns. You will also need an air compressor, air hose and a regulator with a water trap. The first paint gun is for the primer and the second is for the base coat and clear coats.

Preparation
You need to check your motorcycle's fuel and oil tanks before you begin painting. Make sure they are pressure tested and free of leaks. You should start by sandblasting the metal parts on your motorcycle to remove the old paint. If you don't have a sandblaster, you can use sandpaper to sand them. Wipe down the parts you sanded with a non oil-based degreaser before you begin painting.

You will need to apply filler to the low spots. Mix it in small batches. It hardens quickly. Make sure you apply it as smoothly as possible. Sand it with 80 grit sandpaper after it dries, then check for any nicks or low spots. Fill them and repeat the sanding process. Once everything is smooth, it's time for the primer.

Apply two coats of epoxy primer. After it dries, use a spray bomb of black paint and spray it over the surface very lightly. This will make any defects in your fill work show. Use a light finishing putty to repair these trouble spots. Apply it in even coats, then use a foam sanding block wrapped in 80 grit sandpaper to smooth it, followed by 120 grit then 400 grit.
Now apply the last coat of primer. Once it is dry, use 400 grit sandpaper to roughen to surface a little so that the base coat will stick better. Apply a coat of epoxy sealer before applying the base coat. This will provide a better surface and help prevent bubbles.

Make sure you read the instructions for the paint you are using and allow the correct about of time between coats. Also, make sure you mix the paint properly and paint when the temperature is within the acceptable range, or in a temperature-controlled building.

Base Coat & Clear Coat
Apply your color according the instructions provided by the manufacturer, then apply a layer of clear coat. After the first coat of clear coat has dried, use 600 grit sandpaper to wet sand it smooth. Sand until the ridges that appear as you sand disappear.

If you are going to paint graphics on your motorcycle, paint the graphics next. Then apply another coat of clear. You may need two coats of clear over the graphics. Wet sand with 600 grit sandpaper between each coat of clear. After you sand the last clear coat with 600, sand it again with 1500. To make the finish even smoother, you can follow that up with 2000 grit.

Polishing
You will need a variable speed polisher with a buffing pad for the last step, and some polishing compound. The store where you buy your supplies can recommend a good polishing compound to use. Now all that is left to do is buff it out for the perfect mirror finish, then sit back and admire your work.


For more great info on motorcycles visit http://www.motorcyclefactguide.com/ a website offering tips, advice and resources on topics such as buying motorcycle tires, motorcycle gear and even about the different types of motorcycle bikes plus so much more.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_H

Honda News

Posting Created at 27-03-08 08:00

MotorcyclesJapanFebruary 28, 2008

Honda Launches the New DN-01 Large Sports Cruiser with Innovative Automatic Human-Friendly Transmission

TOKYO, Japan, February 28, 2008–Honda Motor, Co., Ltd. announced that sales of the DN-01 large sports cruiser will begin in Japan on Friday, March 7. The unique, low-styling body features a liquid-cooled four-stroke 680 cc OHC V-twin engine that resonates power and a new automatic transmission, the Human-Friendly Transmission (HFT), that delivers superior throttle response for comfort even on long rides, and simple operation with no need for clutch use, allowing sporty riding.

DN-01

Featuring Honda's innovative lockup-equipped, infinitely variable hydraulic mechanical transmission—the HFT delivers superb throttle response and a direct drive feel—the DN-01 is the result of thoroughly pursuing a style that is both luxurious and relaxing, easy and individualistic. The remarkable transmission makes the DN-01 easy to operate, while providing the sporty ride quality that is an intrinsic part of motorcycles. In short, the DN-01 offers totally new sensations in sports riding unheard of in conventional sports models. The relatively low 690 mm seat height offers a relaxedriding position, along with a comfortable passenger seat. Ownership satisfaction comes from the elegant styling and the overall high-quality fit and finish. The DN-01 is a sports cruiser with new value aimed at the discriminating adult rider.

The DN-01 takes its name from the phrase "Discovery of a New Concept," after Honda’s desire to develop a new concept motorcycle. Since its exhibition as a concept model at the 39th Tokyo Motor Show in 2005, Honda has been working toward the market launch of the DN-01, efforts that resulted in the machine being exhibited at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show in 2007 as a model scheduled for release. The DN-01 was developed as a large sports cruiser materializing a new concept, equipped with distinctive HFT, which is based on the automatic transmission in the 1962 Juno M85 and features characteristics optimal for a production machine, thanks to continuous development and advances in electronic control technology.

Key Features


Powertrain

The liquid-cooled four-stroke 680 cc OHC V-twin engine featured in the DN-01 demonstrates powerful and flat torque characteristics in the low-rpm range as well as high-rpm range, realizing smooth and easy revving. A superb fit with the new HFT realizes a comfortable ride feel. A single-sided swingarm (Pro-Arm), acknowledged in the Goldwing and VFR, and a maintenance-free shaft drive with superior durability and quietness have been adopted for the drivetrain. The DN-01 design also takes vibration resistance into account with a full rubber mount for the engine. For environmental performance, the DN-01 conforms with the 2007 exhaust emissions standards in Japan with an electronic fuel injection system (PGM-FI*1) and a catalyst device (catalyzer).*1 PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) is a registered trademark of Honda Motor Co., Ltd.


Automatic Transmission

An infinitely variable hydraulic mechanical transmission, the HFT realizes the lightweight and compact configuration required for motorcycles. Compared with the V-belt automatic transmission used on scooters, this automatic transmission unit can be stored within the engine crankcase, increasing the level of design freedom in the body layout. The HFT responds to a wide variety of rider demands, from easy-to-operate, comfortable riding to sporty and nimble ride quality with a direct response to accelerator operation, due to the hydraulics and computer control. In addition to two fully automatic shifting modes—D mode to cover ordinary riding and S mode for a sportier riding experience—the HFT features a six-speed manual mode, which allows riding with a manual transmission feel. Moreover, the HFT equips the world's first*2 lockup mechanism for an infinitely variable hydraulic mechanical transmission, contributing to improved fuel economy during cruising.*2 According to Honda survey


Design

From the "Low & Long + Modern Organic Body" design concept comes a truly individualistic style. The long-nosed front cowl incorporates dual projector headlights with overall front face shaped in sharp image. The integrated muffler bringing about a sense of unity with the under-cowl, and the Pro-Arm swingarm supporting the rear wheel on one side to give the rear a simple look, as well as the ten-spoke 17-inch wheels, accent the machine's functional beauty and unique sense of style. The instrument panel design combines luxurious LCD and white LED to simultaneously improve visibility and significantly enhance owner satisfaction.


Brake System

The Combined ABS, which is a combination of the Combined Brake System and the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), is equipped on the DN-01, delivering powerful and dependable braking performance.
The three-pot calipers of the front brake provides strong braking control, while rear brake is equipped as a foot pedal type bringing a sense of motorcycle feel. And with such features as a parking brake for convenient parking on hilly roads, the DN-01 provides a full range of functionality for a feeling of security.


Body

Centralization of mass and a lower center of gravity, together with an ideal front and rear weight distribution, ensure responsive handling even with the long 1,610 mm wheelbase. Large foot step boards that can be repositioned to meet rider preferences and a low 690 mm seat height make for a spacious and comfortable riding position, giving the rider the most freedom of movement as possible. At the same time, taking tandem riding into consideration, there is also plenty of room for a passenger on the wide and long seating area. Moreover, passenger and rider seats are close in distance to enjoy a conversation, and well-though layout provides wide-open forward visibility. As rider is, the passenger seat is also designed to deliver unity with the machine and feel the exhilaration of riding.


Body Color

To suit DN-01's unique styling, the four colors of variations are set, exhibiting a sense of luxury and complete satisfaction for its ownership: Pearl Sunbeam White, Pearl Amethyst Purple, Candy Glory Red and Graphite Black.


Other

The DN-01 features the Honda Ignition Security System (H.I.S.S.), Honda's unique anti-theft system using an electronic interlock. The device is programmed to start the engine when the IC chip built into the original key and the ID in the ECU of motorcycle matches. Otherwise, the system prevents the engine from being started, providing effective protection.

Furthermore, an original system has been established for the DN-01 to provide a higher quality service. This new system functions with DN-01 dealer information network to manage the service history of the customer’s machine. To reference authentication data of the machine from the network, the information is stored on a RF-ID which is built into the main key of its machine called, Honda Motorcycle Data (HMD) key. By showing this HMD key to the DN-01 dealer, the machine's service history and information are available instantly through this system, allowing Honda to provide even higher level of service that will also lead to a higher customer satisfaction.

SpecificationsModel

Name DN-01Model
Type Honda·EBL-RC55
L×W×H (m) 2.320×0.835×1.115
Wheelbase (m) 1.610
Ground Clearance (m) 0.130
Seat Height (m) 0.690
Vehicle Weight (kg) 269
Number of Riders 2
Fuel Consumption (km/l) 25.0 (60km/h constant-speed test value)
Minimum Turning Radius (m) 3.2
Engine Type RC55E liquid-cooled four-stroke 4-valve OHC V-twin
Displacemen (cm3) 680
Bore × Stroke (mm) 81.0×66.0
Compression Ratio 10.0
Maximum Power Output (kW[PS]/rpm) 45 [61] / 7,500
Maximum Torque (N·m[kg·m]/rpm) 64 [6.5] / 6,000
Carburetion PGM-FI (programmed fuel injection)
Starter Self-stating
Ignition Fully transistorized, battery-powered
Lubrication Force-fed and splash
Fuel Tank Capacity (l) 15
Clutch Oil pressure regulator system in gearbox(with lock-up mechanism)
Gearbox Hydraulic mechanical system(HFT with electric manual mode)
Gear Ratio 3.000~1.000
Reduction gear ratio (primary/secondary) 1.136/4.196
Caster Angle (degrees) / Trail (mm) 28°30′/110
Tire size Front 130/70ZR17 M/C(62W)Rear 190/50ZR17 M/C(73W)
Braking System Front Hydraulic double discRear Hydraulic disc
Suspension Front TelescopicRear Swing armFrame Double cradle

Source Artikel http://world.honda.com/news/2008/2080228DN-01-Large-Sports-Cruiser/

Pictures
http://world.honda.com/news/2008/2080228DN-01-Large-Sports-Cruiser/photo/images/01.jpg
http://world.honda.com/news/2008/2080228DN-01-Large-Sports-Cruiser/photo/images/02.jpg
http://world.honda.com/news/2008/2080228DN-01-Large-Sports-Cruiser/photo/images/03.jpg
http://world.honda.com/news/2008/2080228DN-01-Large-Sports-Cruiser/photo/images/04.jpg
http://world.honda.com/news/2008/2080228DN-01-Large-Sports-Cruiser/photo/images/05.jpg

Posting Created at 27-03-08 10:00

MotorcyclesDecember 4, 2007

Honda Launches Full Model Changes for the FORZA Z and FORZA Z ABS Scooters

TOKYO, Japan, December 4, 2007– Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced that it will launch full model changes for the FORZA Z and the FORZA Z ABS*1 on Tuesday, December 25. The FORZA scooter series has won Honda many fans with their sporty styling and advanced electronic features, including the Honda S-Matic electronically controlled automatic transmission, and the Honda Smart Card Key System, which allows the rider to start the engine without key operation.

FORZA Z FORZA Z ABS

Powered by a newly designed four-valve single-cylinder engine, the next-generation scooter realizes a powerful riding feel while complying with the 2006 Japanese motorcycle emission regulation. The new frame and suspension system ensure a more comfortable ride than before. Refinement of the overall body configuration, which includes modifications to the front meter visor shape and placement, results in an elegant form that realizes both increased aerodynamic performance and comfort. With the development concept "premium and comfortable two-seater," Honda has brought these models even further forward.

For the engine, a newly designed four-valve engine has been adopted rather than the two-valve engine of the previous model. Modification of the combustion chamber configuration, along with the adoption of metal crankshaft bearings and a new dual-core catalyzer have led to higher output in reducing vibration, and further improving environmental performance, including greater fuel efficiency.

The ever-popular Honda S-Matic automatic transmission now features a load sensing control system, the world's first*2 for a motorcycle, in addition to the seven-speed manual shift mode. By automatically selecting the shift position for optimal driving force to suit the riding conditions,the sensing system provides a powerful riding feel even on uphill roads or during tandem riding.

Since its market launch in 2000, the FORZA series has been well received for its sporty performance and superb utility. The 2004 full model change with the concept "stylish open two-seater" received high evaluation from customers and has been a long-time favorite, being as a top placement*3 for the number of light-weight motorcycle registrations for 37 consecutive months, from May 2004 to May 2007.
*1 Combined brake system (CBS) with antilock brake system (ABS)
*2,3 According to Honda survey

Key Features
Newly Developed Four-valve Engine

In the new FORZA series, the conventional two-valve engine has been upgraded to a newly designed water-cooled four-stroke four-valve single-cylinder engine. To reduce engine noise, along with metal crankshaft bearings, a sealed compact crankcase was adopted to ensure sufficient lubrication. With this sealed crankcase, it is the first time for Honda to equip a primary balancer shaft. On the environmental side, the engine makes possible one of the lowest fuel consumptions in its class*4,using a roller rocker arm and an offset cylinder configuration to reduce frictional losses, and adding an O2 sensor for optimized fuel injection control. The use of a newly developed dual-core catalyzer allows clean environmental performance meeting the 2006 Japanese motorcycle emission regulation while also guaranteeing high output, reducing vibration and contributing in superb fuel economy.
*4 According to Honda survey

Evolved Automatic Transmission

In addition to the seven-speed manual mode, the Honda S-Matic automatic transmission installed in the FORZA Z and FORZA Z ABS now features a load sensing control system, a first for motorcycles. In automatic mode, the mechanism automatically determines the load from the vehicle speed, engine rpm and throttle opening, and automatically selects the gear that provides the optimal driving force for conditions such as uphill roads or tandem riding. This new system realizes a powerful riding feel even on hilly, winding roads.

High-rigidity Frame

The newly designed backbone frame consists of large-diameter, thin-wall, high-tension steel tubes. With the frame weight relatively unchanged, the new structure realizes a 60% higher lateral rigidity and a 30% greater torsional rigidity. Simultaneously tough and flexible, this frame offers improved stability during high-speed and tandem ride, along with comfort on city streets.

Elegant Styling and Design

The concept behind the design was "a solid body and emotional surfaces." The slimmer body and the minimal rear overhang emphasize a compact and sporty feeling. Through an overall review of the body design including changes in the configuration and placement of the front meter visor, the new styling achieves an elegant form with improved aerodynamic performance without compromising comfort. Asserting a sense of presence, the circular tail lamp inherits the image of the previous model, with an even sportier design. And with the instrument panel, the design offers a high level of quality reminiscent of an automobile.

Rich Variety of Body Colors

For new FORZA Z, simple but popular Digital Silver Metallic has been chose from previous model. Also, three new colors have been set for the FORZA Z: Graphite Black, Duke Magenta Metallic and Candy Tahitian Blue. For the FORZA Z ABS, two new colors, Titanium Metallic and Graphite Black, have been set for the body. Along with the body colors, seat and step areas are colored in mocha-beige, creating overall of two-tone colored body. With wheels painted in gold, FORZA Z ABS provides luxurious image.

Specifications

Model Name FORZA Z FORZA Z ABS
Model Type Honda JBK-MF10
L×W×H (m) 2.185×0.750×1.180
Wheelbase (m) 1.545
Ground Clearance (m) 0.135
Seat Height (m) 0.710
Vehicle Weight (kg) 201 204
Number of Riders 2
Fuel Consumption (km/l) 43.0 (60km/h constant-speed test value)
Minimum Turning Radius (m) 2.6
Engine Type MF10E¥water-cooled 4-stroke OHC single-cylinder
Displacement (cm3) 248
Bore × Stroke (mm) 68.0×68.5
Compression Ratio 10.2
Maximum Power Output (kW[PS]/rpm) 16[22]/7,500
Maximum Torque (N·m[kg·m]/rpm) 22[2.2]/6,000
Starter Self-starting
Carburetion Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Ignition Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Fuel Tank Capacity (l) 12
Lubrication Force-fed and splash
Clutch Dry-type, multi-plate shoe
Gearbox Continuously variable (V-Matic)Electronic manual mode
Gear Ratio D-mode:2.450~0.800S-mode:2.600~0.800
Caster Angle (degrees) / Trail (mm) 27°00′/92
Tire size Front 110/90-13M/C 55P Rear 140/70-13M/C 61P
Braking System Front Hydraulic disc Rear Hydraulic disc
Suspension Front Telescopic Rear Unit swing arm
Frame Backbone

Source Artikel http://world.honda.com/news/2007/2071204FORZA-Z-FORZA-Z-ABS-Scooters/


Pictures
http://world.honda.com/news/2007/2071204FORZA-Z-FORZA-Z-ABS-Scooters/photo/images/01.jpg
http://world.honda.com/news/2007/2071204FORZA-Z-FORZA-Z-ABS-Scooters/photo/images/02.jpg
http://world.honda.com/news/2007/2071204FORZA-Z-FORZA-Z-ABS-Scooters/photo/images/03.jpg
http://world.honda.com/news/2007/2071204FORZA-Z-FORZA-Z-ABS-Scooters/photo/images/04.jpg
http://world.honda.com/news/2007/2071204FORZA-Z-FORZA-Z-ABS-Scooters/photo/images/05.jpg
http://world.honda.com/news/2007/2071204FORZA-Z-FORZA-Z-ABS-Scooters/photo/images/06.jpg
http://world.honda.com/news/2007/2071204FORZA-Z-FORZA-Z-ABS-Scooters/photo/images/07.jpg
http://world.honda.com/news/2007/2071204FORZA-Z-FORZA-Z-ABS-Scooters/photo/images/08.jpg

Posting Created at 27-03-08 12:00

MotorcyclesOctober 4, 2007

Honda Develops HFT, a New Automatic Transmission System for Motorcycles

TOKYO, Japan, October 4, 2007–Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced that it has developed the Human-Friendly Transmission (HFT), a new automatic transmission system for motorcycles using Honda’s own infinitely variable hydraulic mechanical transmission. Easy to operate, the HFT realizes outstanding relaxed riding comfort, riding feel with direct response and excellent transmission efficiency. The HFT will be installed on the DN-01, a new motorcycle scheduled for market launch to be introduced at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show.

The HFT-equipped DN-01(scheduled for exhibition at the Tokyo Motor Show

HFT, the infinitely variable hydraulic mechanical transmission system

With Honda's own infinitely variable hydraulic mechanical transmission, this HFT realizes the lightweight and compact configuration required for motorcycles. To meet the wide range of rider needs, HFT offers a selection from two fully automatic shifting modes—D mode for ordinary riding and S mode for a sporty riding experience—or the 6-speed manual mode, which gives riders the option of riding with a manual transmission feel. The HFT creates a unique riding feel through easy operation, ranging from relaxed and laid-back riding to nimble and sporty with direct throttle response.

With the aim of providing products useful in the every day lives of customers, Honda has developed and sold motorcycles equipped with easy-to-operate automatic riding technologies. As a pioneer in the era of automatic systems, Honda launched the Super Cub C100 in 1958, equipped with an automatic centrifugal clutch mechanism, which allowed riding without the need of clutch operation. The Eara (750cc), released in 1977, was a first large-sized motorcycle featured a torque converter in Japan. In 1980, Honda put the Tact on the market, a machine equipped with the Honda original continuously variable transmission, the V-Matic, and Honda has continued to develop a variety of new mechanisms up into the present.

[ Characteristics of the HFT ]

A transmission system with a wide range of functions in a single unit, the HFT is a compact and highly efficient infinitely variable transmission system encompassing functions for starting, power transmission and shifting, all on a single shaft. The basic configuration of the system consists of an oil pump for converting engine power into hydraulic pressure, and an oil motor for converting the hydraulic pressure back into power for output. Both are made up of multiple pistons, a distributor valve and a swash plate for piston operation, while the cylinders are integrated into the output shaft, forming the characteristic structure of the HFT.

The HFT also features the world’s first* lockup mechanism for an infinitely variable hydraulic mechanical transmission. When cruising, this lockup mechanism works to minimize transmission efficiency losses, contributing to improved fuel economy.

* Based on Honda research

HFT configuration HFT powertrain

Source Artikel http://world.honda.com/news/2007/2071004Human-Friendly-Transmission/

<

Condom Bike

ay 15, 2007

Extreme Bike Modification in India: "Condom Bike"

Take a look at the creation of Mr. K. Sudhakar, a car/bike modifier from Hyderabad

I receive quite a number of e-mails asking for details and resources for bike modifications.. Here is one modification for you bike modification enthusiasts.. Lets see if anyone would be interested in such a modification.

Ladies and Gentlemen, presenting to you the World's First "Condom Bike"

As you rub your eyes in disbelief and amusement let me tell introduce to you it's creator. The creator of this bike is Mr. K. Sudhakar from Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh...

Mr.Sudhakar is a Guinness World Record holder for building the Largest Tricycle in the World..!! The Tricycle is 41 feet 7 inches tall and weighs about 3 tons with the wheel diameter of 17 feet. It is 37 feet 4 inches long. The Tricycle is powered by the Pedal, Chain Sprockets and Gears. It took him over 3 years to built this Giant.

Mr. Sudhakar had designed over 150 different types of cars too, these include ‘Wacky Cars, like Brinjal Car, Camera Car, Cricket Ball Car, Shivling Car, Cup & Saucer Car, Helmet Car, Computer Car, Double Bed Car, Football Car etc..!! He has also done a few normal ones like like ‘Go Karts’, Dune Buggies’.

This is what is the reason quoted behind the idea of the "Condom Bike"..

"For a Social Cause Mr. Sudhakar made a Condom Bike in the shape of a condom to bring in awareness towards the deadly AIDS. The Condom bike has a built in player, which gives a brief history on condoms and AIDS awareness. Continuing to fight against the deadly AIDS, he is planning to start a Mini Condom Bike Race."

Some of the Future bikes/cars projects that are being worked on are..

Fountain Pen Bike
Lipstick Bike
Basket Ball Car
Tennis Ball Car
Ladies Hand Bag Car
Stilletto Car
Pressure Cooker Car
Sofa Car
Book Car

Mobile Phone CarMakes wonder if the "Condom Bike" is made out of latex..

Visit Mr. Sudhakar's website to know more about his creations

Source : http://www.2wheelsindia.com/2007/05/extreme-bike-modification-in-india.html