Month: December 2018

AMA Names Travis Pastrana the 2018 Motorcyclist of the Year

Post author By Wade Thiel
Post date December 26, 2018

Pastrana’s Actions Help All Motorcyclists

Every year, the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) selects a motorcyclist of the year. This year, the association picked Travis Pastrana. The AMA had many reasons to select Pastrana, including the fact that he completed three jumps inspired by Evel Knievel.

“Few things or people in motorcycling today capture the fascination of today’s youth like Knievel did for me as a boy,” AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman said. “Travis Pastrana’s performance no doubt captured the attention of young people in a way that hasn’t been done since the days of Knievel.”

Dingman went on to say that Pastrana’s performance brought attention to motorcycling in a good way. That is exactly what the association looks for when selecting a motorcyclist of the year.

Racer, Rider, Philanthropist, Etc.

Pastrana’s daredevil jumps aren’t the only thing that won him motorcyclist of the year. He has been a member of the AMA for over 25 years, making him Charter Life Member. Also, his philanthropic efforts in 2018 surely didn’t go unnoticed.

After the damage of Hurricane Maria, Pastrana helped rebuild motocross tracks, homes, and a school playground. This further qualified him as someone worthy of the AMA’s annual honor.

Long before all of this, Pastrana won several AMA amateur racing titles. He went on to dominate the professional racing scene and continues to compete in various motorsport activities. His life-long commitment to motorcycling and motorcycle racing is well-known. I don’t think there’s anyone more deserving of the AMA honor this year. It’s exciting to see the award go to such a worthy rider.

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Get Excited for New Arai Corsair-X Graphics

Post author By Wade Thiel
Post date December 26, 2018

New Graphics Keep the Corsair Looking Fresh

Arai recently announced a new set of graphics for its popular Corsair-X full-face helmet. The Corsair-X is one of the best helmets out there, but it has been out for a while now and Arai has to keep it looking fresh. Its most recent effort to do so consists of two new graphics each with a few different colors.

Both of the new graphics provide the helmet with a unique look, but the Dani Samurai-2 Blue is the most eye-catching. It wouldn’t be my first choice (I prefer solid colored helmets), but even I can’t deny that it made me take a second look. The Bracket graphic is attractive, but the Dani Samurai-2 is the one to get the most excited about.

Corsair-X Dani Samurai-2

The Dani Samurai-2 is a graphic with a lot going on. At the center of the design on either side of the helmet is a samurai figure. The Arai badge displays prominently on either side and the front of the helmet. On the rear is another samurai design with the word “Dani.”

Like I said, this wouldn’t be my first choice, but I can see a lot of sportbike riders liking the style. There’s a lot going on and the more you look at the graphic the more little things you notice. Arai offers it in two different color schemes. One the company calls Blue (shown in the video above), which uses blue, white, red, and black to craft the graphic.

Arai Corsair-X Dani Samurai-2 Black — Image from Arai

Arai calls the other color scheme Black, and it uses black, gray, gold, and subtle hints of blue in the design. The details of the design are also a little different, with the most notable change being the samurai mask at the back of the helmet.

Corsair-X Bracket

The other new graphic is the Bracket. It uses sharp angles and a mix of curved and straight lines to give the Corsair-X a new look. It’s not quite as complex as the Dani Samurai-2, but it’s an offering I could see more people liking.

Not everyone is going to like the whole samurai thing on the other graphic, but the Bracket one is just more of an aggressive, sporty looking design. Arai offers three different color schemes for the Bracket graphic: White Frost, Black Frost, and Fluorescent Yellow.

White Frost uses white as the primary color accented with black and gray to make up the design of the Bracket graphic and give the helmet an interesting look.

Arai Corsair-X Bracket Black Frost — Image from Arai

You’d think Black Frost would be the opposite of White Frost with its colors simply flipped, but instead, Arai used black as the base and used red and a light grayish white to complete the design.

Corsair-X Bracket Black Frost — Image from Arai

Fluorescent Yellow is the color scheme to get if you truly want to stand out on the road. The design uses red, black, and—you guessed it—florescent yellow to make the most interesting of the Bracket graphics. The color combo adds a depth to the design that the others simply don’t have.

Arai Corsair-X Bracket Florescent Yellow — Image from Arai

Arai Corsair-X Bracket Florsecent Yellow — Image from Arai

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Could a Kawasaki W800 Street Accompany the Cafe in 2019?

Post author By Wade Thiel
Post date December 24, 2018

More W800 Versions are Welcomed

Kawasaki has already committed to selling the W800 Cafe in the U.S., but not the W800 Steet. With that said, Motorcycle.com reported on some California Air Resources Board paperwork that suggests Kawasaki will sell the Street version of the bike in the States.

It is a slightly more laid-back version of the motorcycle. However, most of the specs will remain the same as the Cafe version.

Kawasaki just recently unveiled the W800 at EICMA. It has a 773cc air-cooled parallel twin engine that’s fuel injected and mated to a five-speed transmission. The W800 Street will obviously also get the bike’s double cradle frame and the same suspension setup and ABS brakes.

What Will Set the W800 Street Apart?

The W800 Street has a lower seat height of 30.3 inches, higher handlebars, and no bikini fairing. It also loses about four and a half pounds compared to the Cafe version. Aside from those changes, there aren’t many differences except in the styling department.

The paint schemes are different, with the W800 Street getting mostly black paint with a few silver and chrome accents. It’s a handsome machine overall. If the Cafe was a little too over-the-top for you, the W800 Street is the perfect compromise. I think it’s the better-looking bike.

2019 Kawasaki W800 Street — Image from Kawasaki

Kawasaki hasn’t committed to selling the Street version here. The CARB paperwork just suggests it will. This is a smart business move. It allows the company to sell the same bike to a wider audience, and give dealers another way to market the machine without having the carry parts for a whole new product.

I’m not complaining, though. The W800 is a cool bike, and I would love for Kawasaki to make as many versions of it as they can. No official word on price. The bike was confirmed in Canada. The Street version is a little cheaper than the Cafe version. You can expect to pay right around $9,000.

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The 2018 Yamaha World Technician Grand Prix: Winning Canada’s First

Post author By Jennifer Angelina
Post date December 24, 2018

Meet Brett Hart, Canada’s Champion

Meet Brett Hart, a mechanic at Blackfoot Motosports Calgary, Canada who went to Iwata, Japan for the Yamaha Technician GP.

It was a long road, a lot of work and determination that lead to our very own (residing in Calgary, Alberta, Canada) local motorcycle mechanic, Brett Hart, to win the 2018 Yamaha World Technician Grand Prix in Iwata, Japan. I met up with Brett and his girlfriend Jordan for a beer when they got back to chat about his experiences and the path to becoming a champion in the technician world.

A Fork in the Road

A down to earth guy, growing up in the east coast, he was up (and still is) a fairly quiet person that is definitely not used to being in the limelight. He is a hard worker, very meticulous and everything is very well thought out – it’s no surprise that he came out on top.

Here is Brett working on the diagnostics portion of the competition

It was between his work ethic and that his girlfriend Jordan keeping him focused on studying and working towards winning is what brought him to win the world championship. In school, he thought about becoming a doctor, but a change of mind and a love of motorcycles brought him to want to work in the industry.

His mentor, Ryan Peddie is a motorcycle mechanic I worked with in Pro-Am Motorsports years ago – and he was the inspiration behind Brett wanting to challenge himself and push himself to win.

I could definitely see why he was inspired as Ryan was always focused on work and very serious about it too. Ryan eventually left Pro-Am and started working for Seitzco Motorsports out in Okotoks and this is where he met and took Brett on as an apprentice.

Ryan went to compete in 2007 at the Yamaha World Technician GP while Brett stayed behind, but it got him thinking he could do this too and got bit by the competitive bug. He thought it was cool and would be something he wanted to strive for, so he enrolled himself in the competition in 2009.

Unfortunately, things didn’t pan out that year as the competition ended up being canceled due to budget constraints. That didn’t stop him from trying again and again.

Here are Brett and Jordan enjoying some downtime after the competition

Testing the Waters

In 2012 he finally got to compete and made it in 4th place, not bad – but still not at the level he wanted.

Aiming For the Top

In this competition, once you make it into first for the nationals, that is your one and only chance to make it to the top. You aren’t able to go and compete again, whereas anyone second place or lower in the nationals were able to come back and compete year after year. Which is what he did in 2014 and 2016. He came in 3rd, then 4th respectively.

This year was different. He felt ready and was determined to put in the work required to make it to the top. It was a tough road of endless hours staying after work, studying, and working on the Yamaha units to make sure that he knew everything inside and out – and then some.

In the spring through to the summer of this year, he spent a lot of time also practicing with the diagnostics tool, and all the while had his other half, Jordan, encouraging him to keep going. He even admitted that she was a lot of the reason behind why he made it to the top.

He started and wanted to finish, and she was going to help him do it. Just seeing how excited both of them were about their trip was heartwarming to see.

Climbing Mt. Fuji

The day of the competition Brett had put his game face on. He knew this was now or never, he prepared and was ready to do his best. The competition has 2 classes: Sports and Commuter. Commuter is reserved for the countries with generally smaller cc motorcycles while the Sports category was working with the MT-09.

Working the Competition

The technical portion went fairly smoothly for Brett although there was an error code that kept coming up with the diagnostic tool and nothing checked out as unusual. He ended up figuring out it was a faulty ECU with time to spare for the three maintenance checks that had to be done.

That wasn’t all though, they were also judged on very strict requirements for customer service knowledge and handling which Brett had managed to hit on every point except one, which all the other competitors had missed as well.

The Result of Hard Work

Then it came time for the judgment, and Brett said when they called his name it seemed surreal – although he admitted he expected it a little after what his competitors had said regarding their performance during the break. Still, the competition was also very skilled in their own right.

Walking up to the podium was something he imagined and made real. It was amazing considering that out of the 34,000 technicians in the YTA (Yamaha Technical Academy) that could have entered the Grand Prix, Brett had made it to the top of 21 total contestants for the two categories. It was the first win for Canada and something all technicians should look up to.

For the full competition overview and video from Yamaha: Click here

After the Competition in Japan

Brett (bottom), Jordan (right) and their friend Jeff (left) enjoying Japan after the competition

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Revealed: The Top 10 Custom Motorcycles of 2018

Post author By Chris Hunter
Post date December 23, 2018

Revealed: The Top 10 Custom Motorcycles of 2018
What a year it’s been for the custom scene. With so many great bikes crossing our radar, it’s almost impossible to pick out any personal favorites.

So it’s just as well that our annual Bike Of The Year roundup is purely data driven. It’s based on page views, incoming links, and the number of social media shares. As always, it’s also weighted according to how long ago the bike was featured.

A couple of interesting points to note: If we weren’t dealing with customs here, two factory bikes would have made it into this list: the Indian FTR 1200 and the Husqvarna Vitpilen. Interest in these machines, which look as good as many ‘full customs,’ is intense amongst our readers.

The café racer style, so dominant five years ago, has drifted back into the genre soup. Only one CB café racer made it into our list this year. Flippant categorization in general has dwindled away: we’re seeing more and more bikes that can’t be pigeonholed, and the rise of the tasteful restomod.

And that’s fine by us—especially if it means we can say goodbye to ridiculous terms like ‘brat tracker.’ (Or indeed ‘Ducati Scrambler Café Racer.’)

So here are the ten bikes that revved up our servers and social media channels in 2018. Enjoy.

A Honda CB750 cafe racer from Caffeine Custom of Brazil
10. Honda CB750 by Caffeine Custom Just as we were thinking the days of the classic CB café racer were over, along comes this low-slung CB750 from Brazil. Caffeine Custom is run by a couple of friends from a shed in the mountains, but the clue is in their backgrounds: one is an automotive designer, and the other is a graphic designer. Between them, they’ve nailed the stance and style and lifted this bike well outside the usually tired genre.

A Honda CB750 cafe racer from Caffeine Custom of Brazil
There is nothing radical going on here, but the changes that Bruno Costa and Tiago Zilli have made to the 1979 CB750 are impeccably judged. The bike is lowered, there’s a beefy 18” Comstar wheel at the front, the rear end is nicely chiselled, and the controls have been pared down to the minimum. Anyone thinking of putting a grinder to a CB should examine this machine very closely before flicking the switch.

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Raging Dagger: A hot-rodded Harley Forty-Eight from Rough Crafts
9. Harley Sportster 48 by Rough Crafts Winston Yeh is the king of consistency. Since the early days of Bike EXIF, he’s been churning out hit after hit—so it’s no surprise to see his return to our Top 10. This time it’s with a Sportster that looks like no other: squared off, blacked out, and with the stance of a sportbike.

Raging Dagger: A hot-rodded Harley Forty-Eight from Rough Crafts
With Öhlins suspension, a titanium exhaust, and wheels and bodywork crafted from carbon fiber, this Forty Eight tips the scales at 40 kilos lighter than stock. The geometry is closer to a Buell than a Harley, and the vibe is streetfighter rather than cruiser, but it’s still instantly recognizable as a Rough Crafts build.

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Jackson Burrows' award-winning vintage Harley-Davidson Super 10
8. Harley-Davidson Super 10 by Jackson Burrows We’re not quite sure what’s most amazing about this vintage Harley: the jaw-dropping craftsmanship, or the fact that it’s Mr. Burrows’ first attempt at building a bike. It started life as a tiny 165 cc racing two stroke, and ended up as the proverbial work of art. The motor is slotted into a 1964 Harley-Davidson Scat frame, and there’s a 1948 pressed steel girder fork up front.

Jackson Burrows' award-winning vintage Harley-Davidson Super 10
It’s probably the most obsessive build that we’ve featured all year, with every milimeter crafted to perfection. Jackson lists Ian Barry, Shinya Kimura and Chicara Nagata as his influences—and if he can keep this up, it won’t be long before his own name belongs in that super league.

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Yamaha SR500 scrambler built by Chicago photographer Daniel Peter
7. Yamaha SR500 scrambler by Daniel Peter Chicago-based photographer Daniel Peter loves SR500s: he’s built four so far, in his spare time. At first glance, it’s a relatively straightforward hot rod—with a heavily tuned engine boosted to 540cc. But Daniel’s also added Kawasaki ZX6R forks, Gazi shocks, 17-inch supermoto rims and an aluminum swingarm.

Yamaha SR500 scrambler built by Chicago photographer Daniel Peter
It’s the finish that sets this punchy little machine apart though. The aluminum Yamaha XT500 fuel tank looks spot-on with a delicious white-and-yellow paint scheme, and the ancillary parts are entirely practical—from the fenders front and rear to the heavy-duty serrated footpegs. This is a custom meant to be ridden hard.

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6. 1957 Harley Sportster replica by UFO Garage We fell in love with the concept and execution of this Sportster as soon as we saw it, and we’re glad our readers loved it too. The idea was simple, and supported by Harley-Davidson España: take a late-model Sportster and make it look like a late 50s ironhead.

1957 Harley Sportster replica by UFO Garage
In practice, it’s a complicated trick to pull off, but Spanish builder Efraón Triana managed it—using replica wheels, fenders and handlebars, and an exhaust system that mimics the lines of the original. A 1957-era tank and seat unit have been subtly modified to fit. An optical illusion of the highest order.

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The Grom Reaper: A electric Honda Grom built by a Zero Motorcycles designer
5. Honda Grom by Cole Mishler Engine swaps are a rarity in the motorcycle world. Sure, we often see later-model or higher-capacity motors being installed into a same-marque chassis. But we rarely see high-performance motors squeezed into completely different vehicles, car-style.

The Grom Reaper: A electric Honda Grom built by a Zero Motorcycles designer
That’s the kicker with this incredible Grom electric motorcycle, which is now juiced up by a Zero FX lithium ion powerpack. (It helps that the builder works for Zero and this was a semi-official project.) ‘Grom Reaper’ has almost as much torque as a Sportster 1200 now, plus Öhlins suspension and a 55-tooth rear sprocket to keep things under control. Electrifying stuff.

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Extreme motorcycle engineering: The mindboggling Watkins M001
4. Watkins M001 This Polish-built engineering masterpiece was probably the most radical bike we featured in 2018. It’s the work of an industrial designer from Gdańsk, who prefers to be known as ‘Jack Watkins.’

Extreme motorcycle engineering: The mindboggling Watkins M001
The powertrain is from a BMW R1150 RT, but almost everything else is built from scratch. The one-off front suspension has around a hundred components, including more than a dozen bearings, but the bodywork is just two sheets of steel, lazer-cut and cleverly bent to fit in place. ‘Genius’ is an over-used word, but applicable in this case.

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A Triumph Thruxton cafe racer with a street art vibe by Hans Bruechle
3. Triumph Thruxton by Rogue Motorcycle The power of social media and the street cred of Hans Bruechle, better known as HandBrake the Artist, blasted this Australian Thruxton into the top ten. This article got a solid ten thousand engagements on Facebook alone.

A Triumph Thruxton cafe racer with a street art vibe by Hans Bruechle
The builder was Rogue Motorcycle’s Billy Kuyken, who met Bruechle by chance at a moto show. The graphics are eye-catching, and the handling gets an upgrade via Suzuki GSX-R1000 forks, but the real clever stuff is at the back. Billy binned the back half of the frame, installed a skateboard deck on top of a hidden seat pan, and fabricated a monoshock conversion to make it all fit. We love the rear lighting—a converted Stellar skateboard deck with with LED lights instead of wheels.

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More café than racer: The Ural sidecar with a built-in espresso machine
2. Ural coffee cart by See See It’s ironic that Thor Drake, the lofty proprietor of See See and a leading light of the custom scene in the Pacific Northwest, has only ever built one café racer. But this Ural cT with a hefty 50 kg La Marzocco espresso machine in the sidecar went viral—and global.

More café than racer: The Ural sidecar with a built-in espresso machine
See See also installed airbag suspension, a hand sink, a cooler, a coffee grinder, a mains-level electrical system and more. We’re used to seeing these Russian-made contraptions modified out of sight, but this one really takes the biscotti.

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Custom 2018 Honda Super Cub by K-Speed
1. Honda Cub by K-Speed In 2018, Honda gave the Super Cub a huge raft of updates. It was a significant move, because the Cub is the world’s bestselling (and probably best-loved) two-wheeler.

Thailand is home to a factory that builds the new Cub, so the local Honda distributor decided to give the latest model to K-Speed to rework. It was an inspired move, and K-Speed came up with an equally inspired custom.

Custom 2018 Honda Super Cub by K-Speed
K-Speed’s enigmatic owner Eakk set the design direction, and went for a ‘modern retro’ feel. The vertical fairing remains, but the rest of the bike has been stripped back and heavily modified, with new bars and minimal lighting and controls. The blacked-out rims are wrapped with chunky ‘sawtooth’ tires.

Remarkably, K-Speed finished this build in just 30 days. And it got over three times as many page views as any other bike we showed in 2018. Proof that after six decades and more than 100 million production units, the appeal of the humble Cub still endures.

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POSTSCRIPT It’s been fascinating to sift through the data while compiling this year’s awards. Many of our personal favorites just missed the cut: we saw bikes from Hookie, Krugger, Auto Fabrica, BAAK, and Smoked Garage get pipped to the post by the tiniest of margins, along with ICON 1000’s Suzuki Bandit.

Most surprising of all: there’s only one BMW in the list, and it looks nothing like a BMW. Has the airhead bubble finally burst?

Finally, there are several people we should thank. Like the builders and photographers who dazzle us daily with their skills. And our generous advertisers, who keep the servers humming smoothly, and the site free for you to read.

We must also say a huge thank you to our readers: you’ve made Bike EXIF the most widely read custom motorcycle site in the world. Let’s catch up again in a few days, when Wes will reveal his Editor’s Choice for 2018 (and data be damned).

Custom 2018 Honda Super Cub by K-Speed

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Lightning Motorcycles to Move Into New Headquarters

Post author By Wade Thiel
Post date December 22, 2018

Electric Power, Crazy Fast

There are a lot of innovative startups in the motorcycle industry, but most of these companies are more or less a joke. One of the legit ones is Lightning Motorcycles, which builds top-of-the-line electric motorcycles capable of truly high speeds.

The company recently announced it’s moving to a new San Jose, California, headquarters. That will enable the company to increase the fully electric LS-218 Superbike production.

Lightning Motorcycles is definitely something different from all of the other wannabe motorcycle startups out there. The company isn’t some techie pipe-dream. From the start, it has been about pushing the envelope.

In 2012, the company’s prototype set a record at the Bonneville Salt Flats with a top speed of 215 mph. The next year, the company’s bike sprinted to the top of Pike’s Peak faster than any other bike, electric or gas.

What a New Headquarters Brings

According to a press release, the new headquarters will allow the company to expand considerably. The new facility offers five times the square footage of the company’s current facility.

Not only will Lightning Motorcycles be able to build more of its LS-218 Superbike, but the new space will also allow for an in-house design studio. That design studio will focus on future projects and improving current ones.

Lightning Motorcycles LS-218 Superbike — Image from Lightning Motorcycles

The current LS-218 Superbike offers a fully electric powertrain that produces over 200 hp and has twice the torque of a MotoGP race bike. Lightning Motorcycles is owned by Richard Hatfield. Developed by Lightning from the ground up, the LS-218 is his vision. It’s also an exciting indication of what the future of electric sportbikes will look like.

I’m pretty pumped to see how Lightning evolves over time. I have a feeling the company has the staying power most of these other new electric motorcycle companies don’t have. Hatfield appears to be spending the company money in all the right ways.

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The INNOVV K2 Motorcycle Camera – Great System, Great Versatility, Great Insurance

Post author By Bruce Cole
Post date December 22, 2018

The Breakdown

Like the original K1, the new INNOVV K2 is a dual-channel (front/rear or ??) video recording system, specifically designed for powersports but physically and functionally optimized for motorcycle use.

As the replacement for the tried and trusted K1 system, the K2 reflects an updated design and application approach in using a sealed DVR module, two hardened low-profile camera modules, a small GPS module, and a Smart Power module, all effectively brought together with heavy-duty cables and IP65/IP67 weatherproof connectors.

The K2 powers up after a slight boot delay and starts recording automatically (user intervention is allowed). The wide range of view lenses (horizontal and vertical) are just about perfect and the HD video quality is very good even in low light or nighttime conditions; this is indeed a 24/7/365 functioning system.

The WiFi link and iOS/Android apps provide a live-view or monitoring capability, with mirroring as desired while GPS data tagged to the video files provides an even more detailed record of riding activities that can be especially important in the event of incidents or accidents.

Overall First Impressions

Pros	Cons
Very worthy successor to the original INNOVV dual-channel powersports system	No separate remote-control, other than in using connected device and app
Excellent design and build quality	Front and Back cameras cannot be set to differing resolutions/frames
Easy to install, everything needed is provided	Park Mode features need fine tuning
No user interaction needed unless desired	Mapping playback procedure can be fussy
Very good quality video under all conditions	Recessed storage card hard to remove
Live monitoring, mirroring front and back	Recorded audio not very clear or loud
Video/GPS data playback directly from camera, paired device, or as download
Great system, excellent value & investment

INNOVV K2 Overview

There is no doubt that in a technology-based fast-moving society that we sometimes need help to cope with it all and having a motorcycle-mounted accessory that enhances both the riding experience and riding safety isn’t a bad thing, especially when the Mark 1 eyeballs have other situational awareness tasks to handle.

Just such an accessory is the INNOVV K2 dual-channel camera system. Its front and rear views (or wherever the lens point) and always-on HD video recording, augmented with time, speed, and positional data tagged to the video files make it truly one of the easiest and most reliable ways to ‘capture the ride’.

And given its features and functional parameters, the INNOVV K2 is also a passive and discrete safety tool, keeping a visual, audio and positional record of riding time; but when and if needed, this record can become critical information.

While not all original K1 features were carried over to the new K2 (I’m sure the team had some difficult choices to make), this new system is not lacking – its stylish low-profile design, upgraded components, increased robustness, and new features more than offset what was left behind.

The original INNOVV K1 dual channel camera system had a feature-rich footprint for lots of powersports applications – dual-channel HD video capture, integrated GPS data, external speaker and remote, hardened waterproof cameras (one with a shock sensor), integrated LCD display, park and impact back-up, and the list went on…

With the introduction in June 2017 of the single channel C5 system that was specifically designed for rugged harsh environment use, INNOVV added WiFi connectivity and a smart device (iOS/Android) app – features that by themselves added a host of capabilities; it all served to validate INNOVV’s momentum and commitment to the market.

Now we have INNOVV’s latest iteration of a purpose-built turn-key system, the K2 – evolved from both the original K1 and the C5 to deliver a turn-key dual channel powersports HD video camera system.

The dual-channel K2 components are designed to withstand the rigors of powersports use. The main components are either IP65 (dust-tight/water pressure resistant) or IP67(dust-tight and immersion up to 1m of water) rated and its overall operating/storage temperature range is -20C ~ 70C (-4F ~ 158F)

K2 Kit Contents

INNOVV aims to provide all the essential pieces and with the rare exception, everything needed to get the system up and running is indeed inside.

1 x DVR module (IP65) with microSD storage (up to 256GB)
2 x bullet style camera modules with integrated 1.5m/3.0m cables
1 x 12/5V DC Smart Power Converter
1 x GPS Module with 1.2m cable (IP67)
1 x hardware bag (lens holders, L-brackets, 0.25 in (20P) hardware and Allen-key
1 four-way folded installation and instruction sheet

K2 Component Description & Function

This section serves to describe a progressive build-up ‘what’, ‘how’ and ‘why’ of the main components providing a ‘sum of the parts’ walk-through of the K2 system.

Smart Power Supply

This sealed component is a 12/5V DC converter with some electronic smarts onboard. It provides the proper 5V switched power supply to system components and teams up with the DVR G-Sensor to enable the Park Mode feature described below. The system is lightweight electrically, drawing less than 500mA.

Layout-wise there are two wiring bundles exiting the top of the sealed module. On the top right are the Red positive and Black negative wires that go to the battery along with the Yellow trigger or switched (accessory/ACC) wire that connects to a switched lead on the motorcycle or third-party power distribution system output (Centech, PDM60, Neutrino Black Box, etc).

The second group exits as a three-wire (output) cable from the top left of the converter module. The cable terminates in a waterproof connector that is mated to its (keyed) counterpart on the flying lead of the DVR.

As described earlier, activation of the Park Mode feature is contingent up three conditions being met

G-Sensor activation under the app
Park Mode activation under the app, and
Battery State at/above threshold

Battery State

The power supply monitors motorcycle battery voltage and Park Mode activation is contingent on a voltage of greater than 12V being present (motorcycle on or off) as described below:

Motorcycle battery power is greater than 12V (>=12V)

- - Ignition On – after 10 to 15 seconds, from the output side, ACC gets 5.0V and the Positive 5.3V; the DVR starts recording.
  - Ignition Off – after ten seconds, on the Output side, ACC gets 0V and the Positive gets 5.3V; the DVR stops recording and goes to Standby/Park Mode; if the motorcycle is subsequently disturbed or there is an impact of some sort the DVR-imbedded G-sensor activates the camera system for 60 seconds of recording.

Motorcycle battery power is less than 12V (<=12V)

- Ignition On – after 10 to 15 seconds, from the Output side, ACC gets 5.0V and the Positive 5.3V; the DVR starts recording
- Ignition Off – after ten seconds, from the Output side, ACC gets 0V and the Positive 0V; the DVR does not record (battery is below the threshold), even if Standby/Park Mode is activated the G-sensor does NOT enable recording (avoiding further drain on the battery)

The ten-second power on/power off delay provides start-up protection when the ignition is turned on and the engine started and a graceful time-delay power off so that any active recording can be saved off and not lost.

Camera Mounts

The pre-production kit had the (upgraded) thicker plastic brackets found in the C5 kit, with new black lightweight pinch brackets sent along a bit later – these well-machined pieces have side and top mounting points using the standard camera mount 0.25in (20P) thread.

The standard pinch brackets are great for most installations – low-profile or otherwise and with the non-skid cushioning material added to the inner ring (as done for the plastic C5 holders as well) the lens pieces are (very) secure.

But in responding to feedback from users, the K2 team came up with a multi-piece design (see photo), two of which were received just before submission of this review. While the use of them is pending, they should provide another very good mounting option.

Camera Modules

After the release of the single channel C5 and while developing the K2 system, INNOVV decided to standardize on a single style camera component – so the K2 kit uses two of the small solid billet tubular camera modules like those used with the C5 system.

Each camera is sealed (IP67 stated) module with a 6G hardened medium wide-angle lens (diagonal 145⁰/horizontal 120⁰/vertical angle 100⁰) that provide an optimal field of view for the way ahead and behind enabling road and traffic monitoring and capturing the surroundings from whatever angle they are mounted for.

Available video resolution settings are 1080p at 30fps and 720p at 60 fps.The video format is H.264 compression in MP4 format. Both cameras are now set to the same resolution as a pair, unlike the original K1 that allowed differing resolutions for each camera.

Of the two camera modules provided, one features a 1.5m (4.9ft) and the other a 3.0m (9.8ft) connection cable – both terminate in weatherproof USB-C connectors that plug into the right end of the DVR module, secured in place with small thumb screw assemblies.

Note – when installing or removing the USB-C connectors, make sure the very small thin O-ring seals stay in place…two spares are provided in the kit parts bag.

GPS Module

At a squarish 42 x 42 x 15mm (1.6 x 1.6 x 0.5in) this IP67 rated module with rounded edges is very low profile, although it needs to be mounted in a high-profile or clear line of sight location to the sky for synchronization purposes – top-cases, windscreens or high front fenders work well.

With its 1.2m (3.9ft) cable (longer than the pre-release unit) connected to the GPS-marked waterproof flying lead on the DVR module, and activated under the App ‘Video’ settings, recorded video is enhanced with position, time, date and speed data for an even more complete record of activities.

Exploiting the GPS tracking data during video playback can be done during playback on an iOS or Android device (if the needed access permissions (location and possibly storage) are provided) or playback on a PC. The user also needs to select the correct mapping system on the App (Baidu or Google Maps) as well when activating the feature.

When the GPS is connected and synchronized, a small icon is displayed on the app live-view screen and another related icon lets you know that the data is being recorded to the video track.

DVR Module

This stylish slim aluminum and plastic housing with integrated leads, recessed ports, and weather resistant features can be mounted externally but its ideally installed in a secure hidden location; particularly now that monitoring and user interaction can all be done via the WiFi connection and paired device app.

Two flying leads (marked Power and GPS) with waterproof connectors exit the left end of the module, while two recessed USB-C ports on the right end host the waterproof screw-type front and back camera cables.

A slim weather resistant silicone insert flap on the top edge hides a (reserved use) micro-USB port and micro-SD slot and, a small pinhole audio pick-up.

Note – a modified DVR housing with an external audio pick-up port is now in hand, but results so far have been inconclusive; an update will be provided regarding the audio feature.

The large button on the face is the manual On/Off control that works even if power is being supplied.

Above the power button are four LEDs as function and system status indicators. From left to right they are:

WiFi (Green) – flashes when awaiting connectivity/solid when connected
Recording (Blue) – flashes once per second when recording/solid when stopped, and flashes three times per second when there is no media card in the DVR
Photograph (Red) – flashes three times for a photo, and flashes on/off rapidly when SD card is being formatted, and
GPS (Yellow) – flashes when awaiting synchronization/solid when connected

Note – all four LEDs flash together when a firmware update is initiated – the system automatically resets once done.

Media Storage

Media up to 256GB is supported, but FAT32 formatting needs to be maintained and accordingly, using the App – ‘Settings’ and ‘Format’, is the most expedient means to do this – described in the ‘App’ section below.200GB SanDisk UHS-1 A1 rated media is being used with very good success.

G-Sensor

Now housed within the DVR module, this feature is a welcome carry-over from the original K1 system.It can be turned On/Off and set for Low, Mid or High sensitivity under the App and works in conjunction with the Park Mode setting to provide movement or shock detection and system activation with short-term video recording for a record of any event.

WiFi, App, & Firmware Versions

As of this submission, the posted firmware version is K2.20180925.V0.39; the latest posted iOS app is v1.1.2 and for Android it is v1.2.5; it pays to keep both system firmware and interface apps up to date to optimize system use.

WiFi Connectivity

The INNOVV WiFi feature provides local (no Internet) connectivity. During pre-release testing, both the WiFi and app were slow and prone to dropping out, but between iterative updates and release of the retail box kit, everything is now pretty much seamless and quick. The network ID is ‘INNOVV_K2_xxxx’ and the default login is ‘12345678’.

With many devices, the INNOVV network connection won’t be remembered; this is done in large part to that any default network connection doesn’t get bumped out. So once the K2 is up and running, the K2s network ID needs to be scanned for or found and selected.

iOS and Android Applications

When launched two quick splash screens will appear while the app loads, then the main function screen comes up and goes live once the connection is made.

The middle tile on the main screen is the Settings (gear wheel) tile – activating it brings up a multi-page scrollable settings list – best explored first, then followed by a feature by feature customization to achieve the initial settings.

Some settings of note:

Loop Recording – settings of Off, 1, 3, 5 and 10 minutes are selectable; files are maintained on the storage media until space requirements dictate that the oldest files be overwritten. Park Mode generated files are stored under the ‘Park’ folder and not overwritten’
Photographs – single or time-lapse photos can be done using the ‘Camera’ tile; settings for the time lapse feature are Off, 100/200/500ms.
G-Sensor – Off, Low, Med, and High settings are available. Once the system is installed and if the Park Mode feature is going to be used, the user needs to try the different sensitivity settings relevant to the motorcycle to determine the best setting.
Park Mode – the Smart Power component and G-sensor combine to provide this feature. With G-Sensor and Park mode settings activated under the app, unplanned movement or impact of some sort causes the system to activate during which (up to) 60 seconds of video/audio is recorded for each ‘event’, then the system returns to Standby.

Initial Installation

For reference purposes, the applicable K2 component connection lead lengths are provided:

Camera module cables = 1 of 1.5m and one of 3.0m
DVR Module – Power and GPS Flying Leads = 15cm (5.9in)
GPS Module = 1.3m (ng Lead (DVR) = 15cm or 5.9in
Smart Power (12/5V Converter) Module
- Input Leads = Positive & Negative are 60 (23.6in); Trigger Lead is 80cm (31.4in)
- Output Cable, 3pin Connector = 53cm (20.8in)

2018 Triumph Tiger 800Xca

The pre-release K2 system supplied for initial comment and testing was installed on to the Tiger, which also hosts an INNOVV C5. This double-banking was good as it allowed for direct comparison between the two systems.

For better standardization regarding the frontal field of view both the K2 and C5 front camera modules were mounted on the left and right sides respectively – essentially level with the headlight. The K2 module used the newer black billet pinch-style mount and L-bracket while the C5 module used the plastic ring mount with spring assembly and L-bracket.

I did test-mount the front module under the upper front fender or beak – it is almost totally hidden from view (as it does with BMW GS models as well) and the overall field of view is limited and, the lens gets dirty quickly.

In considering the factors and from testing, the higher profile placement offers an unobstructed wide-angle view relevant to both horizontal and vertical axis and in being hung out in the breeze so to speak stay quite clean. A few front edge dings are evident on the module, but the lens remains undamaged.

The K2 rear camera mounts to a shaped light steel L-bracket that shares a mount with the adapter plate for a SHAD ST38 aluminum top box (a prototype that never made it to market).

Small metal and fiber washers from the kit form a sandwich style isolation washer between camera bracket and L-bracket; this is one of the most effective means to reduce vibration and stabilize video.

The GPS module was originally secured to the back of the top box lid using squares of low-profile 3M Dual-Lock but with the newer longer 1.2+m cable the component is now mounted to the top of the BMW Locking Cradle and Navi V combination fitted to a home-made heads-up navigation mount bracket.

Both the camera and GPS module leads run back between the side panels and frame to the (fully usable) rear under-seat compartments that are perfect for electronic accessory installations including multiple leads and harnesses.

As the K2 12/5V DC Converter module is sealed, it is stuck to the left outer side of the under-seat housing right next to one of the ~24mm oval holes found on both sides of the deck housing.

The holes provide easy access and routing of the input and output wiring for the Converter module, but also allow moisture and dirt in, so appropriately-sized grommets provide a better seal.

With ring terminals crimped/soldered on and sealing sections of heat shrink applied, the 2A mini-fuse from the converter’s positive in-line holder and the negative battery lead were removed, the ring terminals were put in place along with the main battery leads and everything tightened up – negative terminal last.

The Yellow switched or trigger/ACC wire runs back to the under-seat accessory USB harness with a red Posi-Tap making a clean and unobtrusive connection into the White wire of the USB harness.

With the 2A in-line fuse replaced, the waterproof connections for the Converter output and GPS harnesses are made to the ‘Power’ and ‘GPS’ marked leads on the DVR (the connections are ‘keyed’ – they can only be fitted in the correct manner, eliminating installation errors).

And with the two waterproof USB-C connectors on the lens leads fully seated in their ports on the DVR module and the insert screws tightened up, the initial installation is done.

Turning on the ignition and waiting ten seconds sees the K2 system power up and the LEDs twinkle and shortly thereafter video recording starts. Time to make the WiFi connection, launch the app and configure the system.

Note – this pre-release system installation has since been replaced with the updated retail box (Rev 1) kit.

2018 BMW R1200GS Installation

Using the second retail box kit provided. Overall its installation parallels the approach taken with the Tiger.

The installation process had only two deviations:

The Yellow trigger wire draws switched power from a Posi-Tap added to the 7.5A power lead of the under-seat accessory plug.

The DVR module sits in a light foam cushion under the front (rider’s) seat section.

2019 BMW F850GS Installation (Pending)

As the Tiger is likely to be a short-timer in the home fleet, the first retail box kit installed on it is being moved over to the recently arrived 2019 BMW F850GS, that might also be a short-timer, given that an order for the F850GS Adventure is pending…

No issues are foreseen for either F850 model – thankfully given the new layout of the battery, sensor and main electronic modules, there is a fair bit of readily accessible real estate under the deck component.

K2 System Feature & Performance Observations

The K2 system with its components and features is an excellent plug-n-play accessory with near seamless set-n-forget performance – it just keeps on recording, with tagged GPS data and producing great HD quality front and back facing video.

Camera Versatility

One of the best features appreciated with the K2 system, specifically the cameras, is the lens versatility – providing an outstanding field of view in the vertical and horizontal axis, a key factor in being able to use the system for road and traffic monitoring and scenic captures.

Wireless & App

While I might still miss the original LCD on the K1 DVR, having the same preview/live-view ability, along with other abilities, via the WiFi connection and smart-device application provides far more versatility and ease of use – all good.

Cameras – Hidden or Exposed

Many will question why the K2 camera modules are not hidden or at least placed in a lower profile mounting on our home fleet motorcycles and it is indeed a fair question.

But the objective for use is to provide a clear optimal view of the front and back in respect to their respective fields of view so that optimal video capture is done, for a variety of purposes.

Once set-up the K2 system captures two channels of HD video that along with the GPS data and audio provides a scenic and enduring record of the ride. And over the years there have been some noteworthy incidents where the K1, C5, and K2 video, audio and reference data has proven valuable to us and other parties…

Standby/Park Mode

the power and sensor-based solution provided in the K2 for the Standby/Park Mode feature seems to work OK depending on the motorcycle and where/how the DVR is installed and the ability to adjust settings is also good.

But overall the feature is a bit of a miss and when activated, no matter the setting, a lot of Park Mode folder files are generated, even when the system is operating on relatively even road surfaces. And conversely, disturbing or physically moving the motorcycle often doesn’t activate the feature at all.

In being very familiar with the camera module-based sensor of the K1 and in using other systems that have G-sensor based capabilities to detect motion, etc., I’m not convinced that putting the single G-sensor into the DVR module is best, especially given where the DVR is likely to be installed (around the mass of the motorcycle).

My recommendation here is that the feature is revisited – some form of (wider) dynamic range could possibly be implemented or a secondary sensor installed in the cameras or GPS module could provide a better averaging approach with (perhaps) better sensitivity – this valuable feature could and should be more effective.

Audio

With the module tucked away somewhere and the silicone weatherproof cover in place on the DVR module and appreciating the typical motorcycle environment, audio is usually very muffled and can be hard to understand.

A workaround of sorts is to lift up or remove the silicone cover over the small pin-hole (shown above) – this can dramatically improve overall audio, although not without some compromise to DVR integrity and audio still isn’t as good as many other PoV systems…

Note – a modified DVR housing, just received, now features a weatherproof external pick-up port and while early testing is inconclusive, some improvement is noted; the K2 team is keen to get this addressed.

Media Management

A lesson learned over the years in using body or motorcycle-mounted POV cameras is that it (really) pays to review stored files on a regular basis and download them to safe storage especially if lower capacity onboard media is used.

When commuting or riding the local terrain, the files get reviewed and downloaded once or twice a week or more often if there is a specific activity or incident that needs to be looked at or if it could be needed (first responders or insurance related).

On the road, where hopefully video recorded is or can be scenery focused rather than traffic-related the files are reviewed and saved off daily to the travel PC and/or a portable drive.

Apps for Video Playback

The INNOVV identified solution for displaying the dual-channel video with GPS tagged data captured by the K2 is Dashcam Viewer.

I used the free version initially but have since paid for the full version. It isn’t the only app on the market supporting multi-channel multi-sensor data, but it works well once the needed plugins are installed. The software supports the original K1 system, along with other PoV systems I still use.

Conclusion

This the third INNOVV camera system reviewed for wBW and although the original K1 system had some (still) unique features its predecessor, the new K2 system is better in virtually every way.

I never go out riding without having at least one helmet, body or motorcycle mounted camera actively recording constantly; an amendment to the personal ATGATT approach.

And you know what? It is rare (very rare) that one of the active camera systems doesn’t capture something of note or by the same token help in de-conflicting traffic issues… including ‘your motorcycle is in my space’ scenario where succinctly identifying the presence of a camera works wonders…

Otherwise, the INNOVV camera products just keep on running in the background, capturing video, audio and GPS data discretely, all typically with minimal intervention required. And by the way, one of the original K1 systems is now installed on the four-wheeler… as the K2 can be.

wBW has reviewed most of the INNOVV products over the years and in doing so, contact is typically maintained between reviewers and product team leads – a fact that allows us to sometimes get involved in pre-release testing or in refining requirements; and, done without compromising wBW principles regarding publication of honest objective reviews.

So, while my experience may admittedly be different than other users, this continued positive support and interaction with INNOVV needs to be acknowledged, whether as a consumer or product reviewer.

The INNOVV K2 dual-channel camera systems set a high standard. It is an excellent solution for a wide range of requirements and at a typically listed $338.00 USD, very much worth the investment, for lots of reasons.

My comment from the original INNOVV K1 review bears repeating here, “while we may not want to accept the need for this technology, it is a fact of life of many of us, unfortunately.”

Pros

Very worthy successor to the original INNOVV dual-channel powersports system
Excellent design and build quality
Easy to install, everything needed is provided
No user interaction needed unless desired
Very good quality video under all conditions
Live monitoring, mirroring front and back
Direct video/GPS data playback
Great system, excellent value & investment

Cons

No separate remote-control, other than in using connected device and app
Front and Back cameras cannot be set to differing resolutions/frames
Park Mode features need fine-tuning
Mapping playback procedure can be fussy
Recessed storage card hard to remove
Recorded audio not very clear or loud

Specs

Manufacturer: INNOVV
Price: $338 USD
Review Date: November 2018

INNOVV K2 Image Gallery

INNOV K2 Front Installation with both K2 and C5 cameras

Front Installation of the INNOV K2 on the 2018 Triumph Tiger 800Xca

Rear Installation of the INNOV K2 on the 2018 Triumph Tiger 800Xca

GPS Module Installation for the INNOV K2 on the 2018 Triumph Tiger 800Xca

INNOV K2 installation for the 2018 Triumph Tiger 800Xca

Power Installation for the K2 on the R1200GS

INNOV K Rear Installation on the R1200GS

INNOV K Front Installation on the R1200GS

Custom DVR installation for the K2 on the R1200GS

INNOV K2 Heavy Duty Camera Cables Feature USB-C Connectors

INNOV K2 Basic System Connectivity Layout

INNOV K2 App Live View and Track Mapping

INNOV K2 App Video Listing Local Playback

The post The INNOVV K2 Motorcycle Camera – Great System, Great Versatility, Great Insurance appeared first on Web Bike World.

Cruising Other Motorcycle Blogs

Metzeler’s Got Two Versions Of Its Awesome 2019 Calendar

Post author By Carlos Scintilla
Post date December 22, 2018

News

German tire company releases a classic calendar as well as a cruising-themed one

For the last 25 years, Metzeler has produced motorcycle calendars, and the 2019 edition is here. It’s available in two versions.

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Motorcycle News Roundup: Week of 12/16

Post author By Wade Thiel
Post date December 21, 2018

This week has been full of interesting motorcycle news from a customized 180hp Kawasaki GPz750 Turbo to Triumph Factory Custom bikes and rumors of a new Rocket III power cruiser. We’ve covered most of it and rounded up the news that somehow slipped through the cracks.

Check out all of this week’s top stories in the video roundup below.

1. Triumph Scrambler 1200 Pricing Announced

Triumph’s new Scrambler 1200 has a lot of people scrambling for their pocketbooks now that pricing has been announced. The least expensive model will run you $14,000.

Read More

2. Customized 1984 Kawasaki GPz750 Turbo Makes 180 Horsepower

If you want a seriously fast motorcycle with a lot of horsepowers, but can’t stand new bikes, this is the deal for you. Check out the 1984 Kawasaki GPz750 Turbo that’s for sale by owner.

Read More

3. Fly Free Smart Motorcycles Brings Reto Styling and Electric Power

Electric bikes don’t have to look weird. Fly Free Smart Motorcycles proves that with its Smart Classic and Smart Desert retro styled bikes. Too, bad the power plants leave something to be desired.

Read More

4. 2019 Yamaha YZF-R1 GYTR 20th Anniversary Unveiled

Yamaha celebrates the 20-year anniversary of the debut of its YZF-R1 with a special edition called the GYTR. It comes with special racing equipment and graphics. Too bad they’re all spoken for.

Read More

5. Rolling Thunder Will Roll One Last Time in Washington D.C.

The biker club Rolling Thunder will have its annual ride in the nation’s capital to support the troops one last time. Funding has become an issue. The group will still do rides at locations across the country.

Read More

6. 2019 KTM 450 SX-F Factory Edition Revealed

If you were hoping to buy a race-ready motocross bike from KTM in 2019, your prayers have been answered. THe 450 SX-F Factory Edition is the most advanced motocross bike from the company yet.

Read More

7. Indian Motorcycle Files Trademark for Indian Raven

Indian may have a new bike in the works called the Raven. The company trademarked the name recently, and that has our heads spinning as to what the bike could be.

Read More

8. Yoshimura Exhaust System Introduced for 2019 Kawasaki ZX-6R

Is the new 2019 Kawasaki ZX-6R you’re going to buy just not special enough? Buy a new Yoshimura exhaust System and FE eliminator kit and you’ll be the coolest bro on the block.

Read More

9. Triumph Thruxton R TFC Coming in January

Triumph will debut a Thruxton R TFC (Triumph Factory Custom) in January of 2019. It’s a special version of the motorcycle with all kinds of new equipment and only 750 models will be sold.

Read More

10. Could a Triumph Factory Custom Rocket III be Coming?

The Triumph Rocket III will receive a complete overhaul soon. When it does, Triumph may build a TFC model. An image of the upcoming bike was leaked after a recent dealer meeting.

Read More

11. BMW’s Head of Design Discusses the Future of Motorcycle Design

BMW’s future could get interesting. The company’s Head of Design discussed the company’s design moves with the new S1000RR and the possibilities that come with electric bikes. I have a feeling things are going to get weird.

Read More

The post Motorcycle News Roundup: Week of 12/16 appeared first on Web Bike World.

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Nicky Hayden tribute: Analog’s Honda XR650L flat tracker

Post author By Wesley Reyneke
Post date December 21, 2018

Nicky Hayden tribute: A Honda XR650L flat tracker by Analog Motorcycles
Nicky Hayden left a massive hole in the motorcycling world—and in all of our hearts—when he passed away unexpectedly in May last year. In a fitting tribute, the Kentucky Kid was inducted into the AMA Hall of Fame earlier this month.

To commemorate the occasion, the Hall of Fame Museum commissioned two tribute bikes from Chicago’s Analog Motorcycles. American Honda donated the motorcycles, including a CBR1000RR to be wrapped in Hayden’s Repsol MotoGP livery. But the direction of the second bike was left entirely up to Analog shop boss Tony Prust (below).

Nicky Hayden tribute: A Honda XR650L flat tracker by Analog Motorcycles
Most people know Nicky Hayden from his time in MotoGP and the Superbike World Championships. But longtime fans will remember that Nicky actually got his start in flat track racing.

“I chose to build a flat track bike,” Tony tells us, “because that’s where Nicky’s roots were. I also wanted to remember his American racing heritage, so I chose the AMA 2002 Championship RC51 livery. The rest was about making all that happen, and not looking forced.”

Nicky Hayden tribute: A Honda XR650L flat tracker by Analog Motorcycles
Before he could execute his vision, Tony had to pick a donor. The AMA wanted the bike to be street legal, so the CRF250L and XR650L ended up on the short list. Then Honda announced the release of the CRF450L—but by then, Tony had already made up his mind.

“The 450 would have been fun,” he says, “but I think the air-cooled XR650 fits the bill pretty well.”

Nicky Hayden tribute: A Honda XR650L flat tracker by Analog Motorcycles
The XR650L is a fantastic choice. It’s a close cousin to the desert-dominating XR650R, makes decent power and doesn’t cost the earth. There’s also a ton of aftermarket parts available for it—unless you’re trying to build a flat tracker.

“I set out to find a fiberglass tank and tail kit,” says Tony. “But because of its oil in frame backbone and frame design, this proved very challenging. So, as I continue to hone my metal shaping skills, I decided to make it all.”

Nicky Hayden tribute: A Honda XR650L flat tracker by Analog Motorcycles
“That was not really in the budget—but since I was a Nicky Hayden fan and the Hall Of Fame is a good cause, we made it work.”

Tony hand-shaped a new fuel tank to fit the Honda, basing it on the shape of the classic Harley-Davidson XR750 tank. Then he fabricated a tail section, complete with number plates and a custom seat pan, which Dane Utech upholstered.

Nicky Hayden tribute: A Honda XR650L flat tracker by Analog Motorcycles
The fenders (yes, there’s a sneaky rear fender too) are also custom, as is the front number board. Everything flows and tucks together perfectly; the top of the front number board wraps around the speedo, and the right rear number board wraps around the exhaust. Analog used Denali optics at both ends, with two discreet headlights, and an LED taillight.

As for the chassis, the subframe was modified to accommodate the new tail piece. Analog installed a custom-built Hyperpro shock at the back, and a KTM 690 Enduro front end, rebuilt to suit the Honda’s specs. The wheels are flat track-appropriate 19” numbers, featuring Sun rims, Buchanan’s spokes and Dunlop DT3 tires.

Nicky Hayden tribute: A Honda XR650L flat tracker by Analog Motorcycles
Tony’s made sure the Honda goes as well as it shows. He removed the engine’s emissions ‘octopus’ (a common XR650L mod), then installed a Keihin FCR41 carb. There’s a custom intake with a K&N filter, and a Magura hydraulic clutch conversion. Analog also modified and ceramic coated the exhaust headers, and installed a Cone Engineering muffler.

There’s a host of smaller upgrades in play too. The team installed Magura handlebars and master cylinders, Oury grips, a Motogadget speedo, mirrors and switches, and their own brand of mini LED turn signals.

Nicky Hayden tribute: A Honda XR650L flat tracker by Analog Motorcycles
The bike was also completely rewired around a Motogadget m.unit, with an EarthX lithium-ion battery. And Analog even went to the trouble of wrapping all the wiring in WireCare sleeving and tubing.

Jason at Artistimo Customs handled the paint, successfully adapting the Kentucky Kid’s 2002 AMA Championship RC51 livery to the shape of the XR650L. Certain parts were powder coated to finish things off; some in-house, and some by J&J Powder Coating.

Nicky Hayden tribute: A Honda XR650L flat tracker by Analog Motorcycles
“We are super honored to be asked to build these bikes for such an amazing racer and human,” says Tony, “and had the pleasure of being at the induction ceremony in early December.”

“The AMA, American Honda and the Hayden Family all were there to unveil the machines on stage and they were all really impressed with how they turned out. It was a highlight of our year here at Analog Motorcycles and a great way to end 2018.”

Nicky Hayden tribute: A Honda XR650L flat tracker by Analog Motorcycles
Analog’s XR650L is an incredibly well-built, street-legal flat tracker. But it’s also a stunning tribute to one of motorcycling’s most beloved racers. We just wish the Kentucky Kid himself could put it through its paces.

Analog Motorcycles | Facebook | Instagram | Studio images by Daniel Peter | In-process image by Grant Schwingle

Nicky Hayden tribute: A Honda XR650L flat tracker by Analog Motorcycles
Analog Motorcycles would like to thank: Dunlop Tires, Magura, Motogadget, Cone Engineering, K&N Filters, Spectro Oils, Buchanan’s Spokes, WireCare, and our own parts Company Analog Motor Goods.

The two bikes will be raffled off to raise funds for the non-profit AMA Hall Of Fame Museum. US residents came purchase tickets here.