Dakar 2010

In 2010, for the second consecutive year, the Dakar, formerly known as the Paris-Dakar, will take place in South America amid the equally sumptuous and sometimes hostile nature offered by both Argentina and Chile. The course will consist of a 9000 kilometer (5593 mile) loop through the two countries and will include a long stay in the Atacama Desert. Incidentally, Argentina and Chile will jointly celebrate the bicentenary of their independence this coming year. The race will ultimately culminate in a podium finish the 17^th of January in Buenos Aires.

After the popular success experienced last year with the local public, the number of "national" motorcycle and 4 wheel vehicles applicants have tripled. Of course the influx of competitors from every other part of the globe will not be underrepresented in this adventure either. The race against time has begun, particularly for European fans who must prepare their vehicles for boarding between the 25 and 26 November at Le Havre, France. Nearly 200 bikers are expected to start the rally in Buenos Aires, Argentina on the 1st of January. The twice winning rider in the bike category, Cyril Desprès, has confirmed his participation, hitherto uncertain. He will be at the handlebars of a semi-official factory KTM 690, detuned as required by new regulations.

To see the course of the 32nd running of the Dakar, click here:

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2010 Honda CB1100...Don't Hold Your Breath!

The Honda CB1100 was presented in "grand style" at the Tokyo Motor Show 2009 a few weeks ago in person by Honda President Takanobu Ito. You’ve probably all seen this retro bike that exhibits a truly basic vision in comparison to more recent offerings by the marque. The CB 1100 was envisioned to surf the vintage wave passed on from the auto world to the motorcycle community, from Tokyo to NYC...but not to us. Along with the CB 750 KO, issues with homologation will be restricting these two bikes from importation.

Apparently, the air-cooled, four-cylinder 1100 cm3 will not easily meet Euro 3 emission standards and since manufacturers are already looking on to Euro 4 standards, it makes the effort to meet these standards that much less interesting. In addition, the high level of finish will make the price unattractive. Big disappointment then after all the pomp that the CB 1100 will not be available here. Unless of course, a huge number of requests begin streaming into the various subsidiaries (Italy, Germany, France ...). Too bad, as this retro ride with its narrow tires and delicious engine offer everything to please...and had already conquered the hearts of many. It seems then that the future of beautiful air-cooled motors is becoming more and more dim.

Source: Moto-Station.com