Motorcycle Newsbriefs

Dec 21 2009 Harriet Ridley

Motorcycle Newsbriefs

Harley-Davidson Highly-FlammableHarley-Davidson is recalling almost 112,000 motorcycles across the world after tests showed the fuel tank could leak following a severe crash.

The recall involves 21 models from the 2009 and 2010 models in the touring, custom and trike ranges and came to light following Harley-Davidson's own crash testing.

There are no reports of any injuries or deaths as a result of the defect. The recall will involve fitting new, stronger braces to the fuel tank mount. UK owners are currently being traced and will be notified shortly. All work will be done free of charge.

Of course, the recall couldn't come at a worse time for Harley-Davidson. The Milwaukee manufacturer is reeling following the credit crunch, laying off staff left right and centre, selling off MV Agusta and shutting down Buell. Let's hope Harley-Davidson survives this latest set-back.

Triumph Thruxton Café RacerTriumph has announced the introduction of a new special edition Thruxton, the Thruxton SE. The bike is styled on the 1960s café racer and gives the classic British design a sporty new look.

The Thruxton SE combines modern engineering with a retro sports look. It takes its name from the British racetrack where Triumph enjoyed huge success in the 1960's. The special edition version comes with the same 865cc parallel-twin engine and rolling chassis, but gets a stunning new painjob that sees a red frame and Crystal White bodywork with a red stripe. Crystal White is a brand new colour for Triumph with a high metallic content to create a luxurious paint finish, while the red powder-coated frame is also a first time feature. The bike also gets a fly screen and black-finish engine casings.

Production begins in early 2010, with prices still to be confirmed. But Triumph says the SE model will come at a small premium over the standard Thruxton, which currently costs £6,399.