2005 Honda Cobra 1300 on 2040-motos

Moto blog

Honda MotoGP Production Racer Undergoes Testing at Motegi

Development of Honda‘s new production racer is well underway, as the new (relatively) low-cost MotoGP racebike underwent testing at Japan’s Twin Ring Motegi circuit May 23-24. Conceived as a lower-cost option for race teams, the production racer project is running slightly behind schedule but Honda still expects it will available in time for the 2014 MotoGP season. Early reports estimate the price for the production racer to be around US$1.26 million, a substantial price, but still considerably less expensive than rumored $3.9 million it currently costs to lease a Honda RC213V for one season.

Hero MotoCorp Reveals RNT 150 Turbo Direct Injection Diesel Concept

Hero MotoCorp revealed a new scooter concept powered by a 150cc turbocharged direct injection diesel engine. And if that isn’t unique enough, the concept is also two-wheel drive, with an electric motor in the front wheel hub. It’s too soon to know when the Hero RNT 150 TDI concept will ever make it to serial production, but the scooter does represent a technological show of force, proving that Hero can carry on its own research and development following its split from longtime partner Honda.

McGuinness Tests Mugen Shinden Electric Race Bike

Isle of Man TT veteran John McGuinness recently got a chance to test the new Mugen Shinden electric rice bike to prepare for the 2012 TT Zero. The test took place at the Twin Ring Motegi in Japan, a world-class racing circuit but perhaps not-coincidentally, a track built and owned by Honda, further fueling the belief the Mugen effort is a front for the Japanese manufacturer. The Honda-contracted McGuinness put the Shinden through its first big test, helping the Mugen team gather data on the electric racer.