Leif Persson 's 500 KTM

.In 1978 Leif Persson began his work at the Husqvarna Factory in the R&D Department.He was part of the design team for the Husqvarna 390 and 420 Automatics as well asthe Husqvarna 430 and 488.He became the Swedish 500cc Champion in 1980 riding a Husqvarna 420 that had been modified for him at the Husqvarna Development Department. This 1988 KTM 500 was Leif's last factory ride. The inner motor cases on this bike are sand cast, the cylinder ported and the suspension has been re-worked to Leif'sspecifications. He placed 17th in the 500cc World Championships. Eric Geboers wonthe Championship that year aboard a factory Honda.Via : www.vintageworksbikes.c...

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The Sunday Movie

.Catalina Grand Prix Motorcycle RacesThroughout the 50's, the Catalina Grand Prix was one of the premier motorcycle races in the U.S. Once a year boats loaded with bikes crossed the channel to the small island off the California coast. Triumphs, Matchlesses, and BSA's took on the 10 mile course that ran through city streets, up into the hills, and through a golf course before heading back into Avalon to streets lined with screaming fans. This event made its mark in history and produced many stars. The Catalina Grand Prix glory days were way too short but oh so swee...

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Blalock, vintage motorcycle

.By Bill WalshSpecial to the Rappahannock NewsIf all goes according to plan, Bill Blalock will finally get to ride a motorcycle he owned for many years without ever having cranked up the engine.That motorcycle is one of about 80 entered in this fall’s Motorcycle Cannonball, a 17-day race from Kitty Hawk, N.C., to Santa Monica, Cal.Blalock with the restored bike.Blalock bought the badly neglected 1913 Excelsior in 1952 from the Washington, D.C. family of its one-time owner. That owner, a part-time racing enthusiast, had been living in a nursing home for a few years, and the bike had sat in the basement, neglected, for a number of years, Blalock said.“[A sister] really didn’t know what it was worth and didn’t really want any money,” Blalock recalled...

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Carey Loftin

.Arguably Hollywood's greatest ever stunt rider/driver, Carey Loftin's amazing stunt skills were utilized in hundreds of Hollywood productions over a period of 50 years. Loftin began his stunt career as a member of a traveling motorcycle stunt show in the early 1930s when he was 19.William Carey Loftin was born on January 31, 1914 in Blountstown, Florida. The son of a preacher, Carey grew up Alabama and Mississippi. He went to high school in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. He began riding when he was 10 when he borrowed an old strap-drive Excelsior from a local blacksmith and proceeded to plow up a farm field with his face. In spite of such discouragement, the young Loftin continued to ride whenever he could get his hands on a machine.The first motorcycle...

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Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera

Even more dynamic, lighter, more powerful and stunning – the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera is the new top model in the Gallardo line-up. Its evocative “superlight” badge refers to a driving machine of true sporting character and describes a high-performance and lean automotive athlete.Compared with the already lean Gallardo LP 560-4, the weight of the Gallardo Superleggera has been trimmed by 70 kilograms (154 lb). The super sportscar from Sant’Agata Bolognese boasts a dry weight of no more than 1340 kilograms (2954 lb) – the lightest road-going model in Lamborghini’s range, and a new arrival in one of the most exclusive market niche segments.One key factor is the exterior and interior components made from carbon-fiber. Carbon-fiber...

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Gordon Osmundson Photographs'

.If you are a vintage aircraft lover you must go there and visit this fabulous page of Gordon Osmundson this photographer is great and knows how to shoot the best from those fabulous classic planesRAF Mustang, Stead Air Force Base, Reno, Nevada, 2000Open Cockpit, P51d, Stead Air Force Base, Reno, Nevada, 2000Mustang #3, Stead Air Force Base, Reno, Nevada, 1999P51d, Planes of Fame, Chino, California, 19991735 Horsepower, Stead Air Force Base, Reno, Nevada, 1999all pictures copyrighted Gordon OsmundsonCars, trains and, well, planes. It sounds simple enough, but while the photography of, first trains, and then automobiles came to me as the natural outgrowth of my interest in and experience with those subjects, the photography of aircraft came...

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2009 Infiniti EX35

2009 Infiniti EX35 is pleasant and easy to drive. That’s either good or bad, depending on if you like that or not. Handling is great though – it has very little body roll for its size, and is very nimble through the turns. This is one of the very few small SUVs that you can take on a winding road at high speed and still have fun without worrying about tipping over. Suspension and ride is comfortable, and the 297 hp 3.5-liter V6 is the perfect engine for this vehicle. You always have plenty of power when you need it, and throttle response is very smooth. Fuel economy is average at 16/23 for the AWD model; I averaged 19.7 mpg under aggressive driving.The EX35’s only transmission is a 5-speed automatic with manual shift mode, downshift...

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2012 Tesla Model S - 25 Aug, 2010

2012 Tesla’s Model S will rival other EVs, like the plug-in hybrid Fisker Karma, plus traditional luxury vehicles, like the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The 2012 Tesla Model S will be Tesla’s second model, joining the Roadster sports car, with production slated for late 2011. Tesla has yet to announce an official on-sale date for the Model S, but the sporty EV sedan will retail from $49,900 after a $7,500 tax credit when it finally rolls into dealerships. Tesla says Model S customers will be able to order the car with a 160-mile, 220-mile, or 300-mile battery pack. It’s not clear how the price will be affected by the range options.But where the 2012 Tesla Model S really shines is in its performance. The electric sedan...

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Ferrari 599 Hybrid

Ferrari showed off a new prototype for their vision of hybrids going forward. The Ferrarri 599 HY KERS concept is meant to give an idea of how Ferrari is looking to adopt hybrid and other green technology over the next four years.With tough new CO2 emissions in the works, Ferrari is looking to cut fuel by up to 40% over the next few years, or risk being squeezed out. They plan on having green technology across their entire line-up by 2015.The spokesperson noted the concept would cost twice as much as the £207,000 petrol 559 GTB Fiorano on which the concept is based. But, the price should come down to below £300,000 in the next four years.The HY KERS concept uses the Formula One developed system called Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS)....

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Nissan LEAF Electric Car - 25 August, 10

Nissan has just unveiled a new zero emissions vehicle that is slated to go on sale in Japan, Europe and the United States next year. Called the LEAF, this C-segment (sub-compact) car is powered by an electric motor and lithium-ion battery packs. Nissan says it will be able to drive 100 miles on a single charge. The batteries will be able to be charged up to 80 percent in less than 30 minutes with a special quick charger, or in roughly eight hours through a standard 200V outlet. Nissan says that through extensive research the 100 mile range will be suitable for 70 percent of car buyers.Output from the lithium-ion battery packs is rated at 80kW/280Nm, (107-hp and 207 ft-lbs of torque), which should make this sub-compact a sporty little car.Pricing...

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The New 2011 Ford Shelby GT500 has a surprise in store

The new 2011 Ford Shelby GT500 has a surprise in store for true performance enthusiasts – an optional SVT Performance Package. One lap around the racetrack, and drivers will feel the difference.Data show the 2011 coupe with the SVT Performance Package is 3.0 seconds faster per lap than the 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 on a 2.3-mile test track. Cars with the optional package will be able to pull 1.0 lateral g, with stopping distances improved by 7 percent versus the base 2011 Shelby.“More and more enthusiasts are putting their cars on the track to have some fun,” said Carroll Shelby, founder of Shelby American. “It’s a great way to enjoy the performance of your car in a safe environment. No one likes to run at the back of the field, so a track-oriented...

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2011 Nissan Navara : Geneva Motor Show

Europe’s best selling pick-up and its SUV sibling since its launch – the 2010 Nissan Navara have been given a mid-term boost with a number of significant enhancements designed to keep them at the top.Among the changes are the arrival of a new and technically advanced 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine; important improvements to the popular 2.5-litre dCi diesel; greater levels of passive safety; new equipment including the availability of a state-of-the-art Nissan Connect Premium touch-screen satellite navigation system, a premium Bose sound system and a rear view camera; enhanced interior quality and a number of styling changes to keep Navara and Pathfinder looking sharp.Launched at the Geneva Motor Show, the improved new-look Nissan Navara models...

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2010 Mazda CX-7 -- Mazda Cars

The Mazda CX-7 2010Two Mazdas will make their Canadian debut at the 2009 Canadian International AutoShow. The first is the 2010 Mazda CX-7, which receives a new engine option: a 161 horsepower, naturally aspirated 2.5 litre four-cylinder that is also found under the hood of the 2009 Mazda6 and 2010 Mazda3. The second is the refreshed 2009 Mazda MX-5, which receives updated styling in addition to engineering and equipment upgrades. Mazda's stand will also include the redesigned 2010 Mazda3, in both 4-door sedan and 5-door hatchback body styles.2010 Mazda CX-7For the 2010 model year the CX-7 is the recipient of an exterior and interior styling refresh to complement a host of engineering refinements. Leading the way is a new engine option. Making...

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2011 Honda Civic - Honda Cars

The new 2011 Honda Civic is going to be a legend in its class. It is destined to make a difference in the hatchback class. It is set to hit the Honda showrooms in 2010.The pictures in the gallery section just show how the Japanese auto maker has put together the skills of mastermind class, to create this distinct vehicle. The model is more bold and stylish, and features a new wave in auto making. Honda has worked hard to create this model, and it will definitely create some fierce competition between its competitors.The model is mainly aimed at the large amount of young drivers, who want style and class all in one. The vehicle will be like a modified vehicle, with the three door model sitting with a lowered suspension, darker interior and deep...

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2010 Jaguar XJ - Jaguar Cars

Jaguar XJ is not only enhanced in terms of design, technology and performance it is also the most environmentally responsible model as well! Recently Britain’s VCA (Vehicle Certification Agency) audited and approved t imhe new XJ’spact on environment over a specified lifetime (200,000km), including the materials used, material processing, assembly and transport during manufacturing. Jaguar is now recognized as a manufacturer with great efforts to reduce its carbon footprint.Paul Markwick, VCA CEO, said,. “I’m delighted to present this certificate to the team at Jaguar; I know it marks the culmination of a lrot of had work. Environmental issues are rightly high on the business agenda so it is great to see industry embracing initiatives such...

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2011 ferrari enzo II

Considered by many enthusiasts as the ultimate modern Ferrari, the limited-edition Enzo’s replacement will be a tough act to follow up for the Italian automaker. The second-generation Enzo, also named after the marque’s illustrious founder, promises to take performance – and, surprisingly, efficiency – to a new level.Like the original Enzo, the car’s successor will be a range-topping supercar aimed at immortalizing the legendary founder of the brand. Available only to select current Ferrari owners, the next-generation Enzo will serve as the brand’s performance and technology showcase.Based – at least in concept – on the Ferrari Millechili show car (though the production Enzo replacement won’t carry that name), the performance car will be loaded...

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2010 Acura RL available in three variations

Featuring bold looks, a powerful V-6 engine and Acura’s acclaimed Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™  system, the 2010 Acura RL demonstrates that refined luxury is complemented perfectly by advanced technology and performance adrenaline. In addition to delivering luxury, style and performance, Acura’s top-of-the-line sedan keeps drivers more connected to their world, and the world around them, by featuring the latest in intuitive, easy-to-use, state-of-the-art technology. “If a customer is looking for the perfect blend of luxury, performance and safety, then look no further than the 2010 Acura RL”, said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. “It would be hard to find a production car at any price that offers more advanced technology...

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Mercedes Benz G-Class Pictures & Info

The iconic Mercedes Benz G-Class is simply the best car they have ever built because it is being made for 30 years now with almost exactly the same shape as the very first model. Throughout the years Mercedes has garnished the Glandewagen with more power and luxury but the original recipe is still intact. It’s the coolest car in the world and it will be foreverFor the new year though, as the car is celebrating its 30th birthday, the Germans gave it some interior upgrades and new paitjobs. The car is improved ergonomically with new specially designed seats while there are fabric and leather upholstery and new wood trimmings available for you to chose. It also gest an improved multimedia system with USB, iPod and AUX sockets.As for the exterior...

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2010 ABT Audi R8 GTR

Sure, the R8 is no lame duck, and this is even more so once the sports car has been tuned by ABT Sportsline. The result is a real model athlete, which does not just ooze power, but also doesn't have a single gram of fat on its body. With the limited version R8 GT R (with only 25 units available) engineers and designers have gone one logical step further: experience from motorsport flowed into the design, and all the components have been systematically trimmed to ensure a light-weight construction and optimal weight distribution. As a result not just the bonnet, front and rear aprons, the adjustable rear wing or the tailgate are made of carbon, but the outline edge on the rear, the external mirrors and the door panel are also made...

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Kia Fort Koup EX

Kia Forte Koup may outputs 156 hp and 144 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels, as it’s powered by a 2.0-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine which coupled with a 5-speed manual transmission or a electronically controlled 4-speed automatic gearbox. 2010 Kia Forte Koup will also be available with a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine developing 173 horsepower and 168 pound-feet of torque.Kia Forte Koup also comes equipped with multi-port electronic fuel injection and Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT).Forte Koup’s fluid lines and balanced proportions, meant to evoke an emotional driving experience, closely mirror the powerful design cues of the concept vehicle and offer the same aggressive stance with swept-back wrap-around headlamps,...

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Renntech 777 Mercedes SLR McLaren

Volker Mornhinweg, the AMG boss, declared last week that the horsepower war is over and they won’t try to reach extreme performances with the cars they modify. Hartmut Feyhl, the boss from Renntech, still likes powerful cars which can reach incredible speeds and he announced that his company will reveal Renntech 777 Mercedes SLR McLaren, a car developed to celebrate the company’s 20th anniversary, which has 777 HP. The car tuner says this is a completely new street legal track car and it will have a new body kit with improved aerodynamics, a big rear wing, new splitters and new side skirts. The car will be powered with a modified 5.5L supercharged Kompressor V8 engine and it will feature a new suspension, driveline and a special slip differential...

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Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione

The Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione designed and developed at the Alfa Romeo Style Centre, the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione is based on Maserati mechanics, but features unmistakeable Alfa Romeo styling. The '8C Competizione' name-plate is a reference to Alfa Romeo's rich motor-racing history. Making sure it handles as well as it looks, Alfa have drastically cut weight of the vehicle with the extensive use of carbon-fibre (the body and some other elements, like seat structure).Engine specifications on the prototype. The Engine Type of Alfa Romeo 8C is V8. The car having displacement of cu in (cc): 286 (4691). The Power of the car is bhp (kW) @ RPM: 450(336) / 7000 .The Torque is Nm @ RPM: 470 / 4750 having redline: 7500 rpm.Originally unveiled as a...

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New 2010 Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Coupe Sports Car -- Info and Pic

Lamborghini offers some of the most exotic sports cars in the world, and with the latest Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 coupe, that is no exception. This new "entry level" Lamborghini Gallardo coupe delivers 560 horsepower at 8,000 rpm and 398 ft-lbs of torque at 6,500 rpm via a 5.2-liter V10 engine, making sure to deliver on the "Lamborghini experience" in full.The 560 portion of the car's name reflects its horsepower, while the "4" designation indicates all-wheel-drive. The "4" was likely added to the name in anticipation of the forthcoming rear-wheel-drive variant, which will likely end in "2."The latest engine not only gained power and displacement, it also features a new "Iniezione Diretta Stratificata" direct injection system. Despite...

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Festival of Jurby

.By: John Gregory via : www.isleofman.comThousands of motorcycle enthusiasts and families are expected to descend on Jurby Airfield this Sunday (August 29) for the Festival of Jurby.Last year marked the inaugural festival which attracted more than 8,000 visitors and featured vintage motorcycles and other vehicles as well as attractions for all the family. It was the biggest single spectator attraction of the year.This year the organisers are predicting in excess of 10,000 people attending the festival and have completely revamped the event to cope with the huge numbers.It has been organised by the Isle of Man Vintage Motorcycle Club.Secretary of the club Tony East said: "We were completely overwhelmed by the number of people last year."We thought...

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2008 BMW M1 Homage Concept in liquid orange colour

MULGRAVE, Australia – January 5, 2009: BMW Group Australia will bring the BMW M1 Homage show car to Melbourne in February 2009, to form the centrepiece of its stand at the Melbourne International Motor Show.The BMW M1 Homage was created in 2008 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the BMW M1 road and race car programme, the car developed by the highly successful BMW M GmbH division.The BMW M1 Homage will sit alongside the all-new BMW 7 Series Sedan which makes its Australian public debut at Melbourne, and the just-released BMW X6 xDrive50i, both of which are powered by the first ever BMW Twin Turbo V8 engines.The link is apt, given the BMW M1 Group 5 race version was powered by an 850 bhp twin-turbo six-cylinder engine.“For BMW, heritage is...

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2011 Audi A8 L

The new Audi A8 L is a concentrated high-tech package that confirms Audi claim to technical leadership – “Vorsprung durch Technik”. And now the brand is introducing the top version of its flagship model. The A8 L W12 quattro, with a long wheelbase and a twelve-cylinder engine, sets new standards of luxury, dynamism and efficiency in the top automobile manufacturing league. The Audi A8 L is being launched with a twelve-cylinder engine, but by the end of the year will be available with all the engines currently offered for the A8. What’s fascinating about the A8 L is its supremely powerful presence; its design is clearly derived from the brand’s genes and yet has undergone further refinement. The long wheelbase does not disturb its...

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2010 Aston Martin Rapide Price $197,850

2010 Aston Martin RapideAston Martin will return to the starting grid of the legendary Nordschleife circuit for the fifth consecutive year at the 38th ADAC Nürburgring 24-hour race on 15/16 May 2010 with the marque’s new four-door sports car; the Rapide.Further underlining the sporting credentials of Aston Martin’s latest model, the Rapide will compete in the demanding 24-hour race – as has been the case with other recent Aston Martin road cars, the V8 Vantage and V12 Vantage. The Rapide will compete in near-standard specification apart from mandatory changes required to compete in this most demanding of endurance races and will be driven by a team of engineers from the company’s Gaydon headquarters in Warwickshire, England.Aston Martin Chief...

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Mods vs. Rockers bike rally

.By Kimberlee Love via : www.post-gazette.comWhen Larry Fletcher organized Chicago's first Mods vs. Rockers bike and scooter rally in 2005 he had a wealth of experience from which to draw. Mr. Fletcher, a beer importer and vintage bike enthusiast, had organized The Brighton Bash, a vintage bike event, at his Ace Cafe Chicago in 1997, and he continued to organize vintage bike shows and ride-ins with the 59 Club Chicago throughout the next several years.When Laura Pliskin, a freelance art department coordinator from Pittsburgh, decided to organize Pittsburgh's first Rockers vs. Mods event (Mods vs. Rockers and Rockers vs. Mods are used somewhat interchangeably) she had no experience whatsoever. What she did have was enthusiasm for the vintage...

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