motorcycles that inspire

This supercharged Jawa 500 is an interesting blend of new and old. Upside down forks, wave rotors and a single-sided swingarm pair well with a vintage air-cooled engine. The sloping lines of the exhaust manifold draw attention to the blower situated behind the engine.

The clean lines and minimalism on this Honda 140cc bike are reminiscent of an Aermacchi or some throw-back two-stroke GP racer. The gas tank resembles a hotdog and the seat is little more then a bump to stop you from falling off the back of the bike. I could do without the exhaust manifold shield, which resembles an vintage Honda trail bikes too much.

This modern, four valve Ducati is a throwback to vintage Formula 1 racers with their large air scoops, but this looks as much for show then go. I have always thought that a larger, forward facing airbox could improve horsepower by creating a larger plenum from which the engine can draw air. Either way the rain tires are a nice touch.

I am not a fan of dual overhead cam Hondas but this CB750 has some interesting touches to it. Firstly, the four cylinder engine is fed by two carburetors with Siamesed ports. Second, by eliminating the airbox and battery the bike appears more nimble, cleaner. Thirdly, the pinstriping on the gas tank gives the bike some needed curves whilst the seat implies a racing past.

This Norton looks like fun, like you'd never need to wear a helmet and your white pants would never get soiled by grease or oil. It's the kind of bike that would never let you down. The kind of bike that would show you the world if you gave it a chance.

Harley Davidson has an interesting business model; first they sell you a motorcycle then they sell you another motorcycle one chrome part at a time. The result is a heavy, cumbersome motorcycle with a disjointed narrative and a hodgepodge of pieces. This Harley strikes me as something different. Be it the chain drive, flat track exhaust pipes or Ohlins suspension this bike has some go to accompany it's vintage motorcross show. The seat doesn't strike me as being particularly comfortable and the knobby tires look like novelty at best but it'd be a great way to spend the day getting lost on this bike.

I've never been to the Bonneville Salt Flats but if I ever do I'd want it to be on a cross country trip on a bike like this Triumph. Whether it's the exposed primary chain, or belt in this case, brake-less front wheel, rigid back wheel, low slung seat or Hossack front suspension, I love this bike but alas I realize that bikes like this are meant to be admired not ridden. I'd love to ride this bike even if that isn't what it does best.