Biltwell Gringo Helmet
Who says you can't look cool and still ride safely? The guys at Biltwell make both possible with the Gringo Helmet ($150). This motorcycle helmet is styled simply without sacrificing any of the necessary safety features. An injection-molded ABS outer shell and EPS inner shell protect that precious brain of yours, while several color options keep you looking good (available in flat black and titanium, gloss black, orange, and white). Snaps let you attach a bubble shield to protect your eyes, but we think a pair of goggles will suit you better.
Mission RS Motorcycle
Based on the same architecture as the Mission bike that destroyed the field at the FIM/TTXGP Laguna Seca race in 2011, the Mission RS Motorcycle ($56,500) is set to bring high-end electric riding to the streets. Limited to just 40 examples — one for each second of the aforementioned prototype's lead — the RS is powered by the company's InfiniteDrive powertrain, delivering over 160hp, a sub 3-second 0-60 time, a top speed of 150 mph, and a 140 mile range. Other features include Ohlins FGRT forks, BST carbon fiber wheels, and a seven-inch touchscreen powered by Mission OS, an Internet-connected info system offering turn-by-turn directions, an integrated HD camera with telemetry overlay, wireless HUD integration, and more — making this not only the most eco-friendly superbike around, but also the most tech-savvy.
BMW Concept Ninety Motorcycle
Part celebration of a 90-year motorcycle legacy, part homage to the classic BMW R 90 S, the BMW Concept 90 ($TBA) flawlessly combines classic styling and modern performance. Built in partnership with custom bike makers Roland Sands Design, the 90 features striking paint work reflecting the Daytona Orange of the bike that inspired it. Custom-made valve covers, exhaust system and rims display the careful attention to detail only possible with a partnership of this calibre. A Matte black air-cooled flat twin boxer engine and aluminum chassis finish out this incredible ride — here's hoping some of these details make it into the next round of production bikes.
Honda Grom
Somewhere between the dirt bike and the full-size motorcycle lies the Honda Grom ($3,000 and up). Fun for experienced riders but small enough to be handled by first-timers, the Grom features a 125cc fuel-injected engine paired to a four-speed transmission, a low 29.7-inch seat, a curb weight of just 225 pounds, 12-inch 10-spoke wheels, hydrailic disc brakes, and an LED taillight and projector-style headlamp. It's not going to win any races (against other bikes, at least), but it'll get you where you need to go, let you have some fun while you're en route, and virtually guarantees a parking spot once you get there. What's not to like about that? [Scouted by Jon]
Socks by Mack Weldon
So comfortable customers routinely claim they’re “walking on clouds” thanks to the cushioned footbed. The No Shows ($14.50/2 pack) have a “no slip grip” that stays put in low cut summer shoes, while the crew length styles actually stay up if you want them to. Get one or get them all - the Sock Drawer ($135) includes 16 pairs. But do get them soon, because like all things Mack Weldon makes, these are in high demand (and insanely comfortable).
Bandit9 Hephaestus Motorcycle
Not every custom bike has to be glitzy or overly rugged. The Bandit9 Hephaestus Motorcycle (RMB 85,000; roughly $13,700) makes its mark by being simple yet sleek. Sitting on standard tires and alloy rims, Hephaestus features a custom handcrafted stainless steel tank, cowl and fender, a custom gas cap, upgraded front and rear disc brakes and suspension, a custom hand-stitched leather seat, custom side covers, a custom exhaust and muffler, and custom turn signals. All the rest of it is a stock Honda Bros 400 — although admittedly, that's not very much.
Quartermaster Motorcycle
What do you get when you pair up a company known for its rugged motorcycles with one that builds armored riding apparel and helmets? Something like the Quartermaster Motorcycle ($TBA). A collaborative project from Ural Motorcycles and Icon, the bike is based on the former's Solo sT, inspired by Soviet Naval ships, and is designed for End of Days use. Features include an oversized main spar and high-clearance sub-frame, an oversized fuel tank, hand-formed fenders, Enduro bars and controls, a full skid plate, Supertrapp exhausts, and knobbed Continental tires.
Ural Yamal Limited Edition Sidecar Motorcycle
Named after the nuclear powered icebreaking ship built to traverse the wintry wasteland of Arctic seas, the Ural Yamal Limited Edition Sidecar Motorcycle ($14,250) might not break apart ice, but it will certainly draw attention. Powered by a boxer engine with Brembo brakes for equal stopping power, this unique ride comes in powder coated flat orange with black accents and features additional lighting, a knobby spare tire, hand guards, an ore — no joke — and menacing teeth graphics. Only 50 available stateside, so get your order in now.
Janus Halcyon 50 Motorcycle
Remember the bikes of the 1920s and '30s? Yeah, neither do we. But if we could, we bet they'd look a lot like the Janus Halcyon 50 Motorcycle ($3,900-$5,300). Inspired by classic, record-breaking bikes of that era, the Halcyon 50 features a sprung leather seat and panniers, wide handlebars, and a fantastic, streamlined polished aluminum fuel tank. Just don't expect to set any modern records on it — with a maximum speed of 55, it's more suited for urban streets than wide-open road.
Ducati Diavel Strada Motorcycle
Street-fighting power and nimbleness meet open-road amenities in the Ducati Diavel Strada Motorcycle ($15,000). Powered by the same Testastretta 11° engine as its stablemates, the Strada comes standard with a number of comfort-focused accessories like side bags, a windshield, a larger seat, and raised handlebars. All of which help to make it ideal for long-distance rides — without giving up any of the performance features that make it a Ducati.
Confederate X132 Hellcat Combat Motorcycle
It might not look like it, but you're gazing upon the world's fastest big block V-twin. The Confederate X132 Hellcat Combat Motorcycle ($72,000) set the record of 172.2 mph on the Bonneville Salts, which translates to 200 mph on asphalt. It's 2,163cc, 160 hp X132 Combat Twin engine deserves most of the credit, but it's helped along by a 5-speed transmission, custom suspension, BlackStone Tek Carbon Fiber wheels, front Beringer and rear Brembo brakes, LED lighting, and a total body weight under 500 lbs. Limited to just 36 examples worldwide.
Ducati Monster 20th Anniversary Motorcycle
Most "anniversary" vehicles tend to be little more than a few badges and some fancy embroidery — which is why we're so impressed with the Ducati Monster 20th Anniversary Motorcycle ($TBA). A recreation of the original model, it features a bronze-colored frame, a chromium-plated finish, a gold-finished Brembo braking system, and a vintage Ducati '86 logo on the tank, and current-generation technology that makes it a near-perfect marriage of old and new. [Scouted by Douglass]
2013 Zero Electric Motorcycles
Most performance bumps amount to noticeable but relatively small increases. The lineup of 2013 Zero Electric Motorcycles ($9,500-$16,000) bucks this trend by offering an average power increase of 99 percent, thanks to a new Z-Force motor that's more powerful and efficient. Other improvements include higher-voltage power packs, faster charging, mobile phone integration, new bodywork for the Zero S and DS, the new FX urban cycle with modular power packs, and a new title for the S: "World's longest-range production electric motorcycle."
