Do the Lambretta Twist

OK, I love this ad for so many reasons. Here’s a few. First, who doesn’t like a Lambretta? I mean, much like the Triumph Bonneville, everybody used to have a Lambretta.

Secondly, this is one of those tunes that worms its way inside your brain like a parasite. I know I’ll be playing it over in my head all day. Thirdly (thirdly?), the ’60s motif is truly timeless. It holds up better than any other era’s style. Good god, I still don’t know how the ’80s snuck their way back into fashion. Can’t we let Crockett and Tubbs and sack-like dresses fade into the past?

And finally, this commercial reminds me about something missing from a lot of modern motorcycle/powersports advertising: riding two wheels is fun. I can’t understand a word they’re singing, but I know for damn sure that the product they’re pushing will put a big stupid grin on my face. I dare you to watch this ad and not think, “Damn, riding a Lambretta looks like fun.”

From most current adverts I get the feeling that bikes are:
a) X-TREEM
b) Dark & Broody
c) For Lone Wolves

Me? I think they’re fun.

Can-Am Introduces Air Suspension in ATV Line

Outlander MAX 800R EFI LTD.

BRP’s 2010 Can-Am ATV line-up features models that come with the industry’s first air-controlled suspension system (ACS) and a new Dynamic Power Steering (DPS) with dual-mode, speed-sensitive power assist and next-generation Visco-Lok QE automatic front differential.

The ACS comes on the Outlander MAX 800R EFI LTD (MSRP $13,449). The compressor that activates the six-position, rider-selectable ACS system can also be used to fill tires while on the trail. The speed sensitive, dual-mode DPS and revised, quicker-engaging Visco-Lok QE front differential come on select Outlander and Renegade models.

Other model changes and technology updates to the Can-Am ATV line for 2010:

Renegade 800R X xc – The new Renegade package for the serious trail rider comes with a host of features: full beadlock wheels, premium suspension, dual-mode DPS power steering and a front sway bar.

XT-P Package – Gives the rider all the previous Outlander XT package features, but adds more value with painted plastic and package-exclusive cast-aluminum wheels.

More Outlander 650 Power – A revised calibration on the Rotax 650 powerplant helps generate seven percent more power than last year’s engine.

Ecowatercraft Hopes to Offer Electric PWC

EcoWatercraft is a company planning to be the first all electric personal watercraft manufacturer to go into production.

The company is the brainchild of founder Barrett Taylor. Taylor says, as a collegiate triathlete, he often swam amongst extremely heavy fumes expelled from the personal watercraft patrolling the swim site – something that coaxed him to look more closely at the health implications of breathing in toxic fumes and served as inspiration to assemble a team dedicated to bringing an electric personal watercraft to market.

Why electric? According to Taylor, the ECO emits no emissions, operates in complete silence, expands PWC use by being permitted on many lakes that restrict gasoline vehicles, benefits from acceleration inherent in electric vehicles, and offers convenience by requiring no fuels, oil or maintenance.

Sounds good, right? Many “green” blogs and websites appear to think so. However, there are a couple of statements that show a glaring lack of industry knowledge.

First, EcoWatercraft claims it “will be the first American personal watercraft corporation.” In fact, Minnesota-based powersports manufacturers Arctic Cat and Polaris were in the market years ago.

Second, Ecowatercraft says it “will provide the most customer oriented experience in the personal watercraft industry.” Dubious, since they’ll first have to gain the financial strength equal to or greater than companies like Kawasaki, Yamaha, BRP and Honda. Plus, they’ll likely be selling through the same dealers as those other OEMs.

Finally, Ecowatercraft, throughout its marketing literature, uses Kawasaki’s trademarked “JetSki” name in lieu of the general term of “personal watercraft.” A rookie mistake, for sure.