Introduced in the early 80s, Yamaha’s Virago line was the first V-Twin cruiser to come out of Japan, and it was an example of what happens when marketers and engineers don’t agree on what a product should be. The first version was chock full of tech like a monocoque frame, monoshock suspension, shaft final drive, offset cylinders, and more – …
Rare Restoration – 1972 Benelli Panther
Known in other markets as the 125 Cross, this rare model was named the Panther in the US. Parts can be difficult to find, which is why I’m shocked to see that someone has take it upon themselves to give this example a significant restoration.
1976 Yamaha RD400
In 1976, Yamaha made the RD350 a little bigger with a displacement bump up to 399cc. Thanks to 44 horsepower, the hooligan motorcycle du jour was capable of hitting the ton with a top speed of 105 miles per hour. Most people know the 400 simply for being an easier to ride upgrade over the 350, but it was also …
Pre-Motocompo Folder – 1970 Carnielli Motorcycles MotoGraziella
When the subject of “folding scooters” comes up, most people’s minds will wander to Honda’s Motocompo, but there are a number of other collapsable, small-wheeled scoots that predate the Honda by several decades. The “All American Scooter”, the 1960’s Centaur, or Carnielli Motorcycles’ Motograziella.
1991 BMW K75S
Those of you that have read some of my older travel reports probably know that I have a soft spot for the BMW K75. It’s not a particularly exciting motorcycle but I’m biased because a K75C showed naive young me what motorcycle touring was all about after 4 years and 75,000 miles with only one issue (which was my fault). …
First Year in North America – 2003 Honda Ruckus
Post Sale Update: this Ruckus sold for $1,151 after 13 bids on Goodwill. The Honda Ruckus is a very unique modern scooter which combines distinctive styling, a CVT transmission, and excellent fuel economy (114 mpg) to become a popular in-town runabout. Here’s an example with just 660 miles that’s been donated to a Goodwill, so you can feel good about …
KLR650-B – 1990 Kawasaki Tengai
Did you know that Kawasaki actually made three versions of the original KLR? The “A” model is the one everyone is used to, but there were two alternates that occasionally come up for sale. This is the “B” model, better known as the Tengai.
1968 Suzuki MoKick M31
Another day, another Honda Cub clone from a Japanese competitor! This is the M31, which was also known as the MoKick (because you started it by kicking, like a motorcycle, as opposed to pedaling, like a moped) or the Suzy 55.
Rare Project – 1986 Cagiva Aletta Oro S2
In 1985, you could have won a few bets with the knowledge that after the big four Japanese firms, the largest producer of motorcycles in the world was Cagiva. That spring they introduced a new model called the Aletta Oro (which roughly translates to “little Gold Wing”), and Cycle World called it “the most eagerly anticipated motorcycle in Italy. A …
Well-Modified – 2005 Ducati Monster S2R 800
2018 marks 25 years for the Ducati Monster, and it’s had quite a run during that quarter-decade. In 2005, the model line was updated with a new king – the S4RS Testastretta (999 Superbike motor/Ohlins suspension) and the S2R desmodue (2V Desmo motor). The latter borrowed the styling from the former but it offered similar amounts of joy for a …
1989 Honda VTR250 Interceptor
Sold in the US for three years, the Honda VTR250 has become a cult classic for riders that love small bikes. The liquid cooled 250cc engine was paired with a six-speed transmission, and interestingly, an inboard front disc – though by 1990 the front brake would change to the industry standard.
Nighthawk Tourer – 1996 Honda CB750
Post Sale Update: Per the seller, this Nighthawk sold for $2,700. A Bike-urious reader is letting go of beloved Nighthawk and it presents an interesting opportunity for those of you that want to tour on a budget – assuming you like yellow!
1986 Kawasaki Ninja 600R
Post Sale Update: sold for $3,050 after 2 bids on eBay. Kawasaki’s first Ninja was introduced in 1984 as a 900 (you may remember it thanks to a famous cameo in the movie Top Gun). The following year, Kawi basically created the 600 sportbike category as it is still enjoyed today (even if it’s currently dominated by Yamaha). Soon after …
Training Tool – 1990 Honda CB125T
For just one year, Honda made 2,000 examples of a 125cc twin specifically designed for US rider’s education schools. The bike itself isn’t really anything special, but there are some fascinating lights on the front and rear that should be explained.
Restored and Street Legal – 1984 Yamaha IT490
Post Sale Update: This Yamaha sold for $3,050 after 22 bids on eBay. 5-1-2018 Update: Almost exactly two years to the day, this plated IT490 is back up for sale, but this time it’s on eBay. It doesn’t look like anything significant has been changed, so find this blue Yammy for sale in Longwood, Florida with bidding up to $2,750 …