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Brake fluid supply bottle

-
- - -
-

I do all the maintenance on my bikes by myself, so I need to be a little creative when it comes to replacing brake and clutch - fluid, as this is usually a two-person job.

-

For the caliper end of things, I use Stahlbus bleeder valves. They're - far superior to SpeedBleeders, and worth the price. (see discussion below)

-

For the master cylinder end, I created a cheap brake fluid supply bottle out of a pint Mason canning jar and $30 in computer - water-cooling parts. It has a valve to open and close it.

-

To hold it in place, I use a small plate with a thumbscrew that screws into the same hole that holds on the master cylinder - lid.

-

I've used pressure bleeders and other equipment, but this is the simplest and cleanest method I've used so far.

-

I've used commercial supply bottles, but they're all designed for cars and don't attach well to the master cylinder, and the - valves are usually very poor quality. They end up leaking fluid everywhere, and make more of a mess and hassle than they - save.

-

Usage

-

Close the valve, then flip the bottle over.

-

The thumbscrew simply threads into one of the master cylinder lid screw holes with the standard M4 thread used by all - Japanese bikes - and the Italian and German ones I've run into as well.

-

Open the valve. As the fluid drops below the barb, air bubbles into the bottle, which releases fluid to raise the level back - up to the bottom of the barb. It's the same principle as Harbor Freight or Mityvac bottles, but it actually works.

-
-
-
- - -
-

Required PC water cooling parts:

-

I bought mine from Performance PCs so I will use their prices - and part numbers. Except for the ball valve, they're generic parts.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- EK-AF-BV-10-G14-NK ($19)
- EK-AF ball valve (10mm) G1/4" -
- XSPC-BBSP1412 ($3)
- XSPC G1/4" to 1/2" barb fitting
- Get a "stubby" fitting to allow a higher level of fluid in the master cylinder. -
- XSPC-G14-BULK-SL ($5)
- XSPC G1/4" to G1/4" bulkhead fitting -
- ADT-XMM
- Koolance Nozzle Coupling Adapter, G1/4" Male-Male ($3)
- 2 required -
- EK-AF-PT-G14-NK
- EK-AF Pass-Through G1/4" - Nickel ($7) -
-
-
-
- - -
-

Other required parts:

+

I do all the maintenance on my bikes by myself, so I need to be a little creative when it comes to replacing + brake and clutch fluid, as this is usually a two-person job.

+

For the caliper end of things, I use Stahlbus bleeder + valves. They're far superior to SpeedBleeders, and worth the price. (see discussion + below)

+

For the master cylinder end, I created a cheap brake fluid supply bottle out of a pint Mason canning jar and $30 + in computer water-cooling parts. It has a valve to open and close it.

+

To hold it in place, I use a small plate with a thumbscrew that screws into the same hole that holds on the + master cylinder lid.

+

I've used pressure bleeders and other equipment, but this is the simplest and cleanest method I've used so far.

+

I've used commercial supply bottles, but they're all designed for cars and don't attach well to the master + cylinder, and the valves are usually very poor quality. They end up leaking fluid everywhere, and make more of a + mess and hassle than they save.

+

Usage

+

Close the valve, then flip the bottle over.

+

The thumbscrew simply threads into one of the master cylinder lid screw holes with the standard M4 thread used by + all Japanese bikes - and the Italian and German ones I've run into as well.

+

Open the valve. As the fluid drops below the barb, air bubbles into the bottle, which releases fluid to raise the + level back up to the bottom of the barb. It's the same principle as Harbor Freight or Mityvac bottles, but it + actually works.

+

Required PC water cooling parts:

+

I bought mine from Performance PCs so I will use + their prices as an example. They're generic parts, but Performance PCs has given me excellent service, so they + deserve a mention.

- + - + - + - - + + + + + + + + + + + + + +
- 3D-print the mount plate using the brake_fluid_plate.stl (created from - brake_fluid_plate.scad)
- I used PETG filament on an original Prusa i3 MK3 printer. PLA and ABS aren't really compatible with brake fluid.
- You can also make it out of a piece of aluminum using these dimensions. + Ball valve (10mm) G1/4" ($19)
+ Prevents spilling when the bottle is inverted.
- A box of "Tough Tops" - from masontops.com at the local Publix. These are heavy-duty plastic one-piece mason jar - tops with a nice silicone seal and a "premarked center" for drilling. They don't require a washer for reinforcement, and they aren't - affected by brake fluid. + G1/4" to 1/2" barb fitting ($3)
+ Controls the level of fluid in the master cylinder reservoir.
+ Get a "stubby" fitting to allow a higher level of fluid in the master cylinder.
- Some pint size standard-mouth smooth Mason jars.
- Do not get the quart size jars, or the large-mouth jars. They're too big and heavy.
- Do not get Ball jars. They have all sorts of decorations that cause problems with cracking, including their "smooth" ones.
- I got Anchor-Hocking jars, which are truly smooth and are available in 6-packs at my local Publix. + G1/4" to G1/4" bulkhead fitting ($5)
+ Seals the bottle lid and provides a mount for everything else.
+ Make sure to get one with o-rings on both sides! (e.g. the XSPC brand)
- VESA monitor mount thumbscrew with M4 thread + Nozzle coupling adapter, G1/4" male-male ($3)
+ Connects the ball valve to the other parts.
+ 2 required
+ Pass-through G1/4" ($7)
+ Supports the mounting plate.
45° adapter G1/4" male-female ($7)
45° adapter G1/4" female-female ($5)
+ +
+

Other required parts:

+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +
+ 3D-print the mount plate using the brake_fluid_plate.stl (created + from brake_fluid_plate.scad)
+ I used PETG filament on an original Prusa i3 MK3 printer. PLA and ABS aren't really compatible with + brake fluid.
+ You can also make it out of a piece of aluminum using these + dimensions. +
+ A box of "Tough Tops" + from masontops.com at the local Publix. These are + heavy-duty plastic one-piece mason jar tops with a nice silicone seal and a "premarked center" (the + injection molding scar) for drilling. They don't require a washer for reinforcement, and they aren't + affected by brake fluid. +
+ Some pint size standard-mouth smooth Mason jars.
+ Do not get the quart size jars, or the large-mouth jars. They're too big and heavy.
+ Do not get Ball jars. They have all sorts of decorations that cause problems with cracking, including + their "smooth" ones.
+ I got Anchor-Hocking jars, which are truly smooth and are available in 6-packs at my local Publix. +
+ VESA monitor mount thumbscrew with M4 thread +
+
-
-
-
- - -

Bottle Assembly:

-
- + This image shows the assembly order.
+
+
-
-

This image shows the assembly order.

    -
  1. - The first piece is the nut to the bulkhead fitting. This has a flat side with a small recess meant to capture the o-ring. Make sure - this nut is oriented properly. -
    2. -
  2. - Next is the o-ring that goes between the nut and the lid. -
    3. -
  3. - Drill the center of the "Tough Tops" plastic lid with a step bit (also known as a unibit) to accept the bulkhead fitting. This is - the best way to cut the thin plastic of the lid.
    - After you cut the hole, flip the lid over and lightly touch the bit to the plastic to remove any sharp burrs. -
    4. -
  4. - There is another o-ring between the lid and the bulkhead fitting. -
    5. -
  5. - Screw a nozzle coupling adapter on the bulkhead fitting. It has its own pair of o-rings. -
    6. -
  6. - Screw the ball valve to the coupling. -
    7. -
  7. - Screw the other nozzle coupling adapter onto the other end of the ball valve. -
    8. -
  8. - Screw the pass-through onto the coupling. -
    9. -
  9. - Remove the threaded collar, fit the 3D-printed plate, and screw the collar back on. You can skip this step for the rear brakes. -
    10. -
  10. - Screw the short barb fitting to the pass-through. Alternatively, use a long barb fitting and a 6" length of hose for the rear - brakes. I drilled a small hole to adjust the fluid level to my liking. -
    11. +
  11. The first piece is the nut to the bulkhead fitting.
    12. +
  12. Drill a 5/8" in the center of the "Tough Tops" plastic lid with a #3 (1/4"-3/4") step bit (also known as a + unibit) to accept the bulkhead fitting. This is the best way to cut the thin plastic of the lid.
    + After you cut the hole, flip the lid over and lightly touch the bit to the plastic to remove any burrs.
    13. +
  13. There is an o-ring between the lid and the bulkhead fitting.
    14. +
  14. Screw a nozzle coupling adapter on the bulkhead fitting. It has its own pair of o-rings.
    15. +
  15. Screw the ball valve to the coupling.
    16. +
  16. Screw the other nozzle coupling adapter onto the other end of the ball valve.
    17. +
  17. Screw the pass-through onto the coupling.
    18. +
  18. Remove the threaded collar, fit the 3D-printed plate, and screw the collar back on. You can skip this step for + the rear brakes.
    19. +
  19. Screw the short barb fitting to the pass-through. Alternatively, use a long barb fitting and a 6" length of hose + for the rear brakes. I drilled a small hole to adjust the fluid level to my liking.

A note about SpeedBleeders vs. Stahlbus bleeders

SpeedBleeders are brake bleeder nipples with spring-loaded one-way check-valve balls. They're a nice idea.

-

The problem is when you loosen them to release the check-valves, fluid leaks out and air is sucked in past the threads where they - screw into the caliper.

-

You can work around this by smearing grease around the threads or other methods, but it's still kind of a mess.

-

With Stahlbus bleeders, the nipple with the check-valve screws into an O-ring sealed chamber, which then screws solidly into the - caliper. No leaks.

-

Another advantage of the design is that you can control how loose the valve is, and how easily it passes fluid. You can even loosen - them enough to fill the system through the bleeders.

-
-
+

The problem is when you loosen them to release the check-valves, fluid leaks out and air is sucked in past the + threads where they screw into the caliper.

+

You can work around this by smearing grease around the threads or other methods, but it's still a mess.

+

With Stahlbus bleeders, the nipple with the check-valve screws into an O-ring sealed chamber, which then screws + solidly into the caliper. No leaks.

+

Another advantage of the design is that you can control how loose the valve is, and how easily it passes + fluid. You can even loosen them enough to fill the system through the bleeders.

+ diff --git a/brake_fluid_bottle/ek-af-pass-through_nickel.jpg b/brake_fluid_bottle/pass-through.jpg similarity index 100% rename from brake_fluid_bottle/ek-af-pass-through_nickel.jpg rename to brake_fluid_bottle/pass-through.jpg diff --git a/motorcycle_timeline/index.html b/motorcycle_timeline/index.html index c21aa84..92cf29f 100644 --- a/motorcycle_timeline/index.html +++ b/motorcycle_timeline/index.html @@ -3,9 +3,10 @@ Motorcycle Timeline @@ -16,1530 +17,1532 @@
  • [1]
    • - --> + --> Home

    Motorcycle Timeline

    A chronological summary of important motorcycles, people, races, and events.

    -
    - - - - -
    -
    1770
    -
      -
    • Nicolas-Joseph Cugnot builds the steam-powered "fardier à vapeur" which is the first - self-propelled vehicle.
      • -
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    1797
    -
      -
    • Henry Maudslay invents the first industrially practical screw-cutting metal lathe.
      • -
    -
    -
    1804
    -
      -
    • The Isaac de Rivaz engine uses an electric spark to ignite hydrogen to drive a piston, which is the - first internal combustion engine. The French Academy of Sciences argued that the internal combustion - engine would never rival the performance of the steam engine.
      • -
    -
    1805
    -
      -
    • Henry Maudslay invents the bench micrometer accurate to 0.0001" (one ten-thousandth of an inch)
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    -
    -
    1824
    -
      -
    • The Samuel Morey heated surface carburetor uses a wire mesh to prevent the combustion from reaching - the carburetor. This is the first recorded carburetor design.
      • -
    • French physicist Sadi Carnot established the thermodynamic theory of idealized heat engines.
      • -
    -
    -
    1833
    -
      -
    • The Lemuel Wright engine is the first with a water cooling jacket.
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    -
    1835
    -
      -
    • Sir Joseph Whitworth (who worked for Henry Maudslay) devises a method of producing surface plates - using engineer's blue and scraping techniques on three trial surfaces. This is essential for machining - perfectly flat surfaces and producing accurate measuring devices, which then help you create precision - machinery such as engines.
      • -
    -
    -
    1841
    -
      -
    • Sir Joseph Whitworth devises the British Standard Whitworth screw thread system, the world's first - national screw thread standard. This made interchangeable threaded fasteners (nuts & bolts) possible.
      • -
    -
    1846
    -
      -
    • Robert William Thompson patents the pneumatic tire. - [1]
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    1848
    -
      -
    • Jean Laurent Palmer patents the caliper-style hand micrometer.
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    -
    1851
    -
      -
    • Sir Joseph Whitworth demonstrates a bench micrometer that can measure 0.000001 (one millionth of an - inch)
      • -
    -
    1852
    -
      -
    • Locomotive superintendent John Ramsbottom invents the metal split piston ring. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1859
    -
      -
    • French physicist Gaston Planté invents the lead-acid battery, which is the first rechargeable - battery. - [1]
      • -
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    -
    1860
    -
      -
    • Étienne Lenoir used an electric spark plug in his 2-stroke coal gas engine.
      • -
    -
    1861
    -
      -
    • Birmingham Small Arms Company (BSA) founded.
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    1873
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      -
    • Laverda founded in Breganze.
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    1874
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      -
    • James Starley patents the tangentially spoked wire wheel. - [1]
      • -
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    1876
    -
      -
    • Nicolaus Otto builds the first working 4-stroke-cycle compressed-charge engine. - [1]
      • -
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    1880
    -
      -
    • Hans Renold invents the bushed roller chain. - [1]
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    1883
    -
      -
    • Friedrich Fischer devises a grinding machine for ball bearings. His company, Fischers - Aktien-Gesellschaft (FAG), still produces high-precision ball bearings. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1884
    -
      -
    • Rinaldo Piaggio starts a company to supply interiors and furniture to the local shipyards. - [1]
      • -
    • S. Bettmann & Co. Import Export Agency is founded. It becomes Triumph Cycle Company in 1886, then New - Triumph Co. Ltd in 1887 with funding from the Dunlop Pneumatic Tyre Company.
      • -
    -
    1885
    -
      -
    • First motorcycle - the Petroleum Reitwagen - built by Gottlieb Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach.
      • -
    • Max and Reinhard Mannesmann invent a process to produce seamless tube from solid bar. This is used in - bicycle frames. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1887
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      -
    • John Dunlop puts a practical pneumatic tire on a bicycle.
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    1888
    -
      -
    • Edward Butler's 3-wheeled Petro-Cycle features the first float-fed carburetor with a needle valve and - a spray bar. - [1]
      • -
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    1894
    -
      -
    • First production motorcycle - the Hildebrand & Wolfmüller - over 1,000 units are made in 2 years. - [1]
      • -
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    1896
    -
      -
    • Ernest Monnington Bowden patents the cable-in-tube mechanism, which is first used for bicycle brakes, - and becomes the standard for motorcycle clutch and brake controls.
      • -
    • Excelsior Motor Company produces its first motorcycle in Coventry - Britain's first motorcycle - manufacturer.
      • -
    -
    1897
    -
      -
    • Yamaha founded to produce musical instruments, and the logo is a trio of interlocking tuning forks. - [1]
      • -
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    1898
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    • Norton founded. - [1]
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    1899
    -
      -
    • Camille Jenatzy is the first person to exceed 100 km per hour. - [1]
      • -
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    1900
    -
      -
    • Edward Butler's carburetor now features a venturi. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1901
    -
      -
    • Royal Enfield produces its first motorcycle. - [1]
      • -
    • Indian produces its first motorcycle. - [1]
      • -
    • Connecticut institutes the first speed limits: 12mph in town, 15mph on rural roads.
      • -
    -
    1902
    -
      -
    • Robert Bosch & Gottlob Honold make the first commercially viable high-voltage spark plug as part of a - magneto-based ignition system.
      • -
    • Ariel produces its first motorcycle.
      • -
    • Triumph produces its first motorcycle. - [1]
      • -
    • Norton produces its first motorcycle. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1903
    -
      -
    • George A. Wyman crosses the US on a California Motor Company "motor-bicycle" in 50 days.
      • -
    • Husqvarna produces its first motorcycle. - [1]
      • -
    • Harley-Davidson Motor Company produces its first motorcycle. - [1]
      • -
    • The Federation of American Motorcyclists (FAM) is formed by the New York Motorcycle Club, with - membership dues of $2/year. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1905
    -
      -
    • Fabrique Nationale de Herstal FN Four features the first shaft drive on the first production - inline-four. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1907
    -
      -
    • Fabrique Nationale de Herstal FN 244cc single-cylinder features the first continuously variable - transmission, using a belt and a patented variable-size engine pulley.
      • -
    • Excelsior Motor Manufacturing founded in Chicago.
      • -
    • First Isle of Man TT (Tourist Trophy) race - held on the 15.85-mile St John's Short Course. The winner - of the single-cylinder race goes an average speed of 38.21mph. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1908
    -
      -
    • Husqvarna sells 14 motorcycles. - [1]
      • -
    • The Motorcycle Manufacturers Association is formed. - [1]
      • -
    • Cadillac wins the Royal Automobile Club's prestigious Dewar Trophy for having completely - interchangeable parts. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1909
    -
      -
    • Gilera produces its first motorcycle.
      • -
    • Husqvarna sells 23 motorcycles. - [1]
      • -
    • Suzuki Loom Works is founded. - [1]
      • -
    • First Isle of Man TT race lap at over 50mph. - [1]
      • -
    -
    -
    1910
    -
      -
    • Birmingham Small Arms Company Limited (BSA) produces its first motor bicycle.
      • -
    • Gustav Otto founds Otto Flugmaschinenfabrik, which becomes Bayerische Flugzeugwerke AG in 1916.
      • -
    -
    1911
    -
      -
    • Sears and Roebuck Co starts selling the Auto-Cycle. - [1]
      • -
    • Royal Enfield Model 160 features a two-speed countershaft gearbox and all-chain drive. - [1]
      • -
    • Isle of Man TT race moves to the 37.75-mile Snaefell Mountain Course. - [1]
      • -
    • Isle of Man TT bans pedaling gear. - [1]
      • -
    • Edward N. Hines paints the first lane centerline in the Detroit area in 1911 on a city street, but it - doesn't become a standard.
      • -
    -
    1912
    -
      -
    • Royal Enfield Model 180 features the first modern vanes-and-rubber-blocks cush drive. - [1]
      • -
    • Henderson produces its first motorcycle - they were the largest and fastest motorcycles of their - time.
      • -
    • Schwinn purchases Excelsior.
      • -
    • An American Excelsior is first motorcycle to be officially timed at a speed of 100 mph.
      • -
    • First white lines on roads.
      • -
    • "Pacific Motocycling" magazine is founded, which eventually becomes "Motorcyclist". - [1]
      • -
    • Cadillac wins the RAC Dewar Trophy for having an electric starter and lights. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1913
    -
      -
    • Karl Rapp and Julius Auspitzer found Rapp Motorenwerke GmbH. The company produces a 100hp - four-cylinder engine that Rapp had designed at Flugwerk Deutschland GmbH before it went bankrupt.
      • -
    • The "Good Fellowship Tour" held in Milwaukee is extremely popular, and inspires the FAM to develop the - "Gypsy Tour". - [1]
      • -
    -
    1914
    -
      -
    • 152,945 motorcycles registered in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • British physician Dr. Eric Gardner commissions the construction of the first helmet for Brooklands - racers.
      • -
    • Dr, Gardner's helmets made compulsory for the Isle of Man TT races. - [1]
      • -
    • First traffic signal installed in Cleveland, Ohio.
      • -
    • First automatic brake lights.
      • -
    -
    1915
    -
      -
    • 199,329 motorcycles registered in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • The FAM grows to 8,247 members. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1916
    -
      -
    • Sears stops selling motorcycles. - [1]
      • -
    • Harry Ricardo begins to study engine knocking in aircraft engines, and develops fuel rating system.
      • -
    • The Motorcycle and Allied Trades Association (M&ATA) is formed. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1917
    -
      -
    • Schwinn purchases Henderson, and the bikes are now branded Excelsior-Hendersons.
      • -
    • Zünderund Apparatebau GmbH (Zündapp) is founded in Nurmberg by Fritz Neumeyer, Friedrich - Krupp AG, and Theil.
      • -
    • Max Fritz starts designing engines for Rapp Motorenwerke GmbH. They fire Karl Rapp and change the name - to Bayerische Motoren Werke GmbH (BMW).
      • -
    • Kenneth I. Sawyer of the Marquette County Road Commission in Michigan paints the first highway lane - centerline on what was then M-15 (part of the modern County Road 492)
      • -
    • After a near-collision with a large truck, Dr. June McCarroll paints the first lane centerline stripe - in California on Indio Boulevard, then part of U.S. Route 99.
      • -
    -
    1919
    -
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    • DKW (Dampf-Kraft-Wagen - German for "steam-driven car") starts producing engines.
      • -
    • BSA produces its first motorcycle.
      • -
    • Future president Lt. Col. Dwight Eisenhower is part of a US Army Motor Transport Corps convoy that - takes 62 days to cross the country on the Lincoln Highway, at an average speed of 6mph, losing 9 - vehicles and 21 men to 230 incidents.
      • -
    • The FAM is dissolved due to WWI. The M&ATA creates the Educational Committee which starts - registering riders and clubs and supporting motorcycle activities, including the annual Gypsy - Tours. The Competition Committee manages the former FAM racing responsibilities, and recognizes 11 - national championships. - [1]
      • -
    -
    -
    1920
    -
      -
    • 236,924 motorcycles registered in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • Harley-Davidson becomes the largest manufacturer with 28,189 motorcycles sold by dealers in 67 - countries.
      • -
    -
    1921
    -
      -
    • The "gerotor" oil pump is invented by Myron F. Hill.
      • -
    • Giorgio Parodi founds Moto Guzzi, and produces the "Eagle" motorcycle. It is the oldest European - manufacturer in continuous motorcycle production. - [1]
      • -
    • Thomas Midgley Jr. at General Motors Dayton research laboratory discovers the antiknock effectiveness - of tetraethyl lead.
      • -
    • Zündapp produces the Z22, its first motorcycle.
      • -
    -
    1922
    -
      -
    • Isle of Man Snaefell Mountain Course now 37.73 miles.
      • -
    • DKW produces its first motorcycle.
      • -
    • Bayerische Flugzeugwerke AG buys the BMW name and engine-making assets (but not their facilities) - becoming Bayerische Motoren Werke AG. The original BMW becomes Süddeutsche Bremsen AG.
      • -
    -
    1923
    -
      -
    • BMW produces its first motorcycle - the R32, with an engine designed by aircraft engine designer Max - Fritz. - [1]
      • -
    • First Isle of Man TT 60mph race lap. - [1]
      • -
    • Carlo Giannini and Piero Remor design the Rondine, which is the first transverse 4-cylinder engine, - and the world's most powerful engine with 60hp. It has vertically stacked transmission shafts. - [1]
      • -
    • Mikuni is founded.
      • -
    -
    1924
    -
      -
    • The M&ATA's Educational & Competition Committees become the American Motorcycle Association (AMA), - with dues of $1/year, and about 10,000 members. The M&ATA unites with scooter trade representatives - to become the MS&ATA. - [1]
      • -
    • After a statewide letter writing campaign by Dr. June McCarroll, the California Highway Commission - paints 3,500 miles of lane centerlines at a cost of $163,000 (equivalent to $2.06 million in 2021)
      • -
    -
    1925
    -
      -
    • 145,691 motorcycles registered in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • 212 individual Gypsy Tours were held on June 20 and 21. - [1]
      • -
    • The AMA's first full competition year holds 56 races, and 14 national championships were awarded. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1926
    -
      -
    • Società Scientifica Radio Brevetti Ducati founded.
      • -
    • Graham Edgar develops the octane number rating system expressed as the ratio of n-heptane and - iso-octane. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1927
    -
      -
    • Velocette's race engineer Harold Willis develops the ratchet-driven sequential shifter. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1928
    -
      -
    • Excelsior in third place in the US motorcycle market behind Indian and Harley-Davidson.
      • -
    • Phillip Vincent buys HRD Motors to found Vincent Motorcycles.
      • -
    • First front-wheel brakes on Harley-Davidson motorcycles met with skepticism.
      • -
    • The Moto Guzzi 497cc Gran Turismo has the first modern swingarm rear suspension. - [1]
      • -
    • The SAE develops the variable-compression CFR test engine to determine fuel octane number. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1929
    -
      -
    • DKW produces 60,000 motorcycles to become the largest manufacturer in the world.
      • -
    • Bessie Stringfield, a 5'2" black woman, starts touring the country on her Harley-Davidson. She owned - 27 Harleys in her lifetime. She became the first black woman to ride a motorcycle in every one of the - lower 48 states, and made motorcycle trips to Brazil, Haiti and parts of Europe. She also races, but she - was often denied the prize money. - [1]
      • -
    -
    -
    1930
    -
      -
    • 110,757 motorcycles registered in the US. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1931
    -
      -
    • Schwinn shutters Excelsior & Henderson - "Gentlemen, today we stop".
      • -
    • Ariel produces the Square Four, designed by Edward Turner.
      • -
    -
    1932
    -
      -
    • Mikuni acquires manufacturing license from Amal of UK for carburetors. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1934
    -
      -
    • Cecil Barrow's Royal Enfield TT racer features plain big-end bearings. - [1]
      • -
    • Chrysler develops "superfinishing" which increases part life, decreases wear, allows closer - tolerances, higher load bearing surfaces, better sealing capabilities, and elimination of a break-in - period. Superfinished gear teeth last 4x as long.
      • -
    -
    1935
    -
      -
    • Royal Enfield's Model LO features fully enclosed overhead valve gear. - [1]
      • -
    • 99,135 motorcycles registered in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • Gilera acquires the Rondine four-cylinder engine.
      • -
    • BMW R12 & R17 are the first bikes with hydraulically damped telescopic forks.
      • -
    • T. E. Lawrence ("Lawrence of Arabia") dies from head injuries after crashing his Brough Superior SS100.
      • -
    • Stanley Woods wins the Senior TT on a Moto Guzzi 500 with swingarm rear suspension, which is the - beginning of the end for rigid rear ends.
      • -
    -
    1936
    -
      -
    • Velocette GP bikes have modern swingarm rear suspension with sprung oleo-pneumatic shocks, inspired by - aircraft landing gear. - [1]
      • -
    • First sealed-beam headlights.
      • -
    • jack Sangster buys Triumph's motorcycle division and forms Triumph Engineering Co Ltd
      • -
    -
    1937
    -
      -
    • First Daytona 200.
      • -
    • Velocette KTT roadracer has an aluminum Y-alloy cylinder head. - [1]
      • -
    • Soichiro Honda founds Tõkai Seiki to produce piston rings, and eventually becomes the sole - supplier for Toyota.
      • -
    -
    1938
    -
      -
    • Royal Enfield 350cc Bullet is the first production bike with an aluminum Y-alloy cylinder head. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1939
    -
      -
    • Buick introduces the first factory-installed flashing turn signals for cars. - [1]
      • -
    -
    -
    1940
    -
      -
    • Two 7" round sealed-beam headlights become mandatory in US for cars.
      • -
    • 136,402 motorcycles registered in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • Dot Robinson wins the Jack Pine National Endurance Championship to become the first woman to win an - AMA national competition. She also founds the Motor Maids, the first all-female motorcycle club.
      • -
    • The Pennsylvania Turnpike opens. It is the first long distance controlled access highway in the - country.
      • -
    -
    1941
    -
      -
    • Australian neurosurgeon Dr. Hugh William Bell Cairns, who attended T.E. Lawrence, publishes "Head - Injuries in Motor-cyclists - the importance of the crash helmet" in the British Medical Journal, which - is the first study of the subject. He devises a helmet with a smooth outer shell supported by a lining - consisting of a number of webbing slings attached to the base, and introduces it in the armed forces. - [1] - [2]
      • -
    -
    1942
    -
      -
    • The AMA begins publishing the quarterly newsletter "AMA News". - [1]
      • -
    -
    1945
    -
      -
    • 197,920 motorcycles registered in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • Aprilia founded.
      • -
    • MV Agusta produces its first motorcycle.
      • -
    -
    1946
    -
      -
    • Piaggio introduces the Vespa.
      • -
    -
    1947
    -
      -
    • Franco Bertoni wins MV Agusta's first motorcycle race on an MV 98 Sport. - [1]
      • -
    • The AMA starts the "American Motorcycling" monthly magazine, which requires a subscription fee in - addition to membership dues. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1948
    -
      -
    • Royal Enfield's 500cc parallel twin has a nodular iron hollow crankshaft. - [1]
      • -
    • Sears sells Cushman scooters as Allstates.
      • -
    • The Hell's Angels are founded.
      • -
    • Honda founded. - [1]
      • -
    • Vincent Black Lightning is the world's fastest production motorcycle with Rollie Free doing 150.313mph - at the Bonneville Salt Flats.
      • -
    • Geoff Duke starts racing, and invents the leather racing suit ("racing leathers").
      • -
    • Last Indian win of the Daytona 200.
      • -
    -
    1949
    -
      -
    • Moto Laverda is formed, and produces the Laverda 75.
      • -
    • Rex McCandless designs the Norton "featherbed" double-loop frame.
      • -
    • First FIM Grand Prix championship race held at Isle of Man.
      • -
    • Honda produces its first motorcycle, the Dream D-Type. - [1]
      • -
    -
    -
    1950
    -
      -
    • "Cycle" magazine founded.
      • -
    • Giovanni Castiglioni founds Cagiva. The company is named after its owner and where it was located, - CAstiglionoGIovanniVArese. - [1]
      • -
    • 453,874 motorcycles registered in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • Ducati produces its first motorcycle.
      • -
    • Ducati under government Istituto per la Ricostruzione Industriale (IRI) management.
      • -
    -
    1951
    -
      -
    • Joe Berliner is the eastern US Zündapp distributor.
      • -
    • Walter Kaaden starts working on two-stroke expansion chambers and rotary valve induction for DKW.
      • -
    • Sears sells Vespa scooters as Allstates.
      • -
    • BSA Group buys Ariel and Triumph, becomes the largest manufacturer.
      • -
    • Honda produces its first four-stroke motorcycle, the 146cc Dream E. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1952
    -
      -
    • Suzuki produces its first motorcycle, the "Power Free".
      • -
    • Laverda enlarges from 75cc to 98cc.
      • -
    -
    1953
    -
      -
    • Patent issued for protective helmets to University of Southern California Professor C. F. "Red" - Lombard for energy-absorbing liner separate from the comfort padding.
      • -
    • "The Wild One" released, with Marlon Brando riding a Triumph.
      • -
    • "Roman Holiday" features Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn flashing through the streets of Rome on their - Vespa.
      • -
    -
    1954
    -
      -
    • Sears sells Puch motorcycles as Allstates.
      • -
    • Bell produces the "500TX" open-face helmet using the Lombard patent.
      • -
    • The US adopts the "vehicle identification number" (VIN) for registering vehicles, replacing the engine - number. The format is not standardized, however.
      • -
    • The first Grand National racing series races. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1955
    -
      -
    • Vincent produces its last motorcycle.
      • -
    • Yamaha founds motorcycle division and produces the YA-1 "Red Dragonfly".
      • -
    • NSU becomes the largest manufacturer.
      • -
    • 412,347 motorcycles registered in the US. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1956
    -
      -
    • Keihin Seiki Manufacturing founded in Kawasaki City. - [1]
      • -
    • DKW becomes Motorenwerke Zschopau (MZ).
      • -
    • John Surtees wins MV Agusta's first World Championship in the 500cc class. - [1]
      • -
    • The Federal Aid Highway Act of 1956 funds the "Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and - Defense Highways" AKA the Interstate Highway System. The standardized network of controlled-access - highways revolutionizes American travel and was inspired by Eisenhower's experience in the 1919 Motor - Transport Corps convoy.
      • -
    -
    1957
    -
      -
    • Joe Berliner takes over International Motorcycle Company.
      • -
    • Mike Hailwood starts racing.
      • -
    • Construction begins on the Daytona International Speedway.
      • -
    • Snell Memorial Foundation established to create helmet performance standards, and to remember William - "Pete" Snell, a popular sports car racer who died in 1956 of head injuries. - [1]
      • -
    • Honda "Dream" has Keihin carburetors. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1958
    -
      -
    • Joe Berliner becomes US distributor for Ducati.
      • -
    • Walter Kaaden incorporates a boost port into the MZ 125 two-stroke engine, and it produces 22hp and - runs cooler.
      • -
    • Bultaco founded.
      • -
    • California Highway Patrol motorcycle officers begin using helmets.
      • -
    • Harley-Davidson introduces rear suspension.
      • -
    • Honda introduces the four-stroke 50cc Super Cub C100. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1959
    -
      -
    • Honda enters the Isle of Man TT for the first time.
      • -
    • Vincent goes bankrupt.
      • -
    • Triumph introduces the Bonneville.
      • -
    • Honda becomes the largest manufacturer.
      • -
    • Yamaha is the first Japanese motorcycle manufacturer to enter the US market.
      • -
    • First Isle of Man TT race lap at over 100mph. - [1]
      • -
    -
    -
    1960
    -
      -
    • 574,032 motorcycles registered in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • Dino Signori founds SIDI in a barn and starts making hiking boots and sports shoes. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1961
    -
      -
    • Joe Berliner becomes US distributor for Norton.
      • -
    • Walter Kaaden's MZ 125 with expansion chambers, a disc valve, and boost ports, is the first - naturally-aspirated engine to make 200hp/liter.
      • -
    • First Daytona 200 on pavement at the Daytona International Speedway.
      • -
    • MZ rider/engineer Ernst Degner defects from East Germany, taking Walter Kaaden's two-stroke - engine-tuning secrets to Suzuki.
      • -
    • Brembo is founded. - [1]
      • -
    • The new Laverda 200cc parallel twin is marketed in the US.
      • -
    -
    1962
    -
      -
    • Ernst Degner wins the first world championship for a two-stroke on a 50cc Suzuki.
      • -
    • Lambretta introduces the TV175 Series 3 scooter with the first front disc brake.
      • -
    • "You meet the nicest people on a Honda" campaign launched for the Super Cub.
      • -
    • "Cycle World" magazine is founded. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1963
    -
      -
    • Joe Berliner becomes US distributor for Matchless.
      • -
    • Giacomo Agostini has the first of 122 Grand Prix wins.
      • -
    • Kawasaki and Meguro merge to form Kawasaki Motorcycle Co.
      • -
    • Bell Helmets introduces the "Star" which is the first full-face helmet. It meets Snell criteria and - retails for $59.50. It does not have a flip-up visor, as the visor has to be popped out of the rubber - surround. The viewport is very small and restrictive. - [1]
      • -
    • Honda begins motorcycle production in Belgium - its first motorcycle factory outside of Japan. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1964
    -
      -
    • The British Excelsior Motor Company produces its last motorcycle.
      • -
    • Helmets required to have DOT approval.
      • -
    • Kevin Cameron starts racing/tuning.
      • -
    -
    1965
    -
      -
    • 1,381,956 motorcycles registered in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • The jewel-like Honda 250cc RC166 Grand Prix racer had 6 thimble-sized 41cc cylinders, an 18-piece - crank, and developed 62hp at 18,000rpm, which is 248hp/liter. The 22mm carburetors had 5 jets. The DOHC - engine was no wider than a 4 cylinder at 14" wide and drove a 7-speed transmission. Mike Hailwood won - all 10 races on it in 1966, and repeated the championship in 1967. This is the engine responsible for - the "4 cylinders, 6 speeds" rule.
      • -
    -
    1966
    -
      -
    • Kawasaki enters the US market.
      • -
    • Craig Vetter founds Vetter Fairing Co, making the famous Windjammer fairing that influenced the Honda - Gold Wing.
      • -
    • Sears sells Gileras as Sears Motorcycles.
      • -
    • First ANSI Z90.1 performance standard for motorcycle helmets.
      • -
    • Highway Safety Act required all the states to have mandatory helmet laws.
      • -
    • Law directing the issuance of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) enacted.
      • -
    • Burt Munro makes his under-1000cc world record run of his 1920 Scout Streamliner.
      • -
    • The Honda 50cc twin which won the GP constructors crown, had a bore and stroke of 35.5 by 25.14mm, - revved to 22,500rpm and produced 14 horsepower, for a specific power output of 280hp/liter. - [1]
      • -
    • Moto Guzzi produces the V7 700 with 703.3cc and 40hp, weighing 230kg. It uses an enlarged engine - designed by Giulio Cesare Carcano for a sport version of the Fiat 500. - [1]
      • -
    • Thomas Ball at Chrysler invents the wax cartridge fast-idle system. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1967
    -
      -
    • Ducati under government Ente Finanziamento Industria Manifatturiera (EFIM) management.
      • -
    • Yamaha creates the Yamalube brand.
      • -
    -
    1968
    -
      -
    • Berliner Motor refuses an entire shipment of over 3,000 Ducati motorcycles they had ordered, as the - stocks they had on hand were not selling quickly. To get themselves off the hook from Ducati, they - turned to Associated Motor Cycles (AMC) in the UK, and used the leverage of the vast USA market they - controlled, informing AMC that they would be needing no more of the struggling factory's Matchless - motorcycles unless AMC found someone to purchase the unwanted Ducati shipment. The effect of Berliner's - actions rippled through the UK motorcycle world, as this was a sizable flood of stock to enter the - smaller, and already soft, UK market. The existing, formerly exclusive, Ducati distributor refused to - sell parts to anyone whose bike had been purchased from what they saw as an illegitimate player in the - field.
      • -
    • Honda, Suzuki, and Yamaha withdraw from FIM Grand Prix in protest of the "4 cylinders, 6 speeds" - rules.
      • -
    • Jarno Saarinen starts racing with the "knee down" style.
      • -
    • Giacomo Agostini wins both the 350cc and 500cc titles for MV Agusta.
      • -
    • Aprilia produces its first motorcycle.
      • -
    • Kenny Roberts starts racing.
      • -
    • Honda introduces the "Monkey" Z50A Mini Trail 50, which is produced for 50 years until 2017.
      • -
    • Honda reaches 10-million-unit global production milestone. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1969
    -
      -
    • SIDI creates the "Grand Prix" motocross boot with a six-lever closure system. - [1]
      • -
    • Piaggio buys Gilera.
      • -
    • AMF buys Harley-Davidson.
      • -
    • Kawasaki introduces the H1 Mach-III 60hp 500cc two-stroke triple - the completely inadequate - suspension and frame is terrifying. It's the first multi-cylinder street motorcycle to use - transistorized capacitor discharge ignition (CDI) instead of breaker/points ignition.
      • -
    • Sears stops selling motorcycles again.
      • -
    • BSA introduces the Rocket III.
      • -
    • 660,000 motorcycles sold in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • Stock motorcycles run quarter-mile in less than 13 seconds.
      • -
    • Honda introduces the CB750 Four - first motorcycle with hydraulic disc brakes front and rear - the - first superbike. The inline-four air-cooled plain-bearing single-overhead-cam electric-start bike with - steel tubular cradle frame, twin-shock rear suspension, upright bars, and long flat seat defines the - Universal Japanese Motorcycle that becomes the dominant style for decades. It marks the beginning of the - end for the British motorcycle industry. 40 years later, Motorcyclist magazine names it the Bike of the - Century.
      • -
    • Last Harley-Davidson win of the Daytona 200.
      • -
    • Femsa creates the first transistorized capacitor discharge ignition system for motorcycles. - [1] - [2]
      • -
    • "Road Rider" magazine founded. - [1]
      • -
    • Lino Tonto designs the Moto Guzzi V7 Ambassador, the California, the V7 Special with 45hp and 757cc, - and the 200kg V7 Sport with 5 speed transmission, 52hp and 748cc. - [1]
      • -
    • The XS-1 650cc vertical twin is Yamaha's first 4-stroke motorcycle.
      • -
    • The MS&ATA merges with the West Coast Motorcycle Safety Council to form the Motorcycle Industry - Council (MIC). - [1]
      • -
    -
    -
    1970
    -
      -
    • "Easy Rider" released, starring Peter Fonda, Dennis Hopper, and Jack Nicholson.
      • -
    • MZ produces its one millionth motorcycle.
      • -
    • 1.1 million motorcycles sold in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • 2,824,098 motorcycles registered in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • Dick Mann scores Honda's first AMA National Championship race win at the Daytona 200 aboard a CR750, - which is a racing version of the new CB750. - [1]
      • -
    • Sachs shows the Hercules W-2000 at the German IFMA trade show, which is the first bike with a Wankel - rotary engine. - [1]
      • -
    • The AMA's "American Motorcycling" magazine is renamed to "AMA News". - [1]
      • -
    • the AMA is accepted as the sole US representative to the FIM. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1971
    -
      -
    • Count Domenico Agusta (of MV Agusta) dies. - [1]
      • -
    • The Suzuki GT750 Le Mans 70hp 750cc liquid-cooled two-stroke triple is the first Japanese production - bike with a liquid-cooled engine. It looks strange with no cooling fins and is nicknamed the "water - buffalo".
      • -
    • "On Any Sunday" released, starring Steve McQueen, Mert Lawwill, and Malcolm Smith.
      • -
    -
    1972
    -
      -
    • The Benelli 750 Sei is the first production six cylinder motorcycle.
      • -
    • Yamaha DT-250 is the first production bike with reed valve induction.
      • -
    • Giacomo Agostini wins his seventh consecutive 500cc championship, all with MV Agusta.
      • -
    • The British Government form Norton Villiers Triumph, also including the remnants of BSA.
      • -
    • Craig Vetter redesigns the Triumph Rocket III to become the X-75 Hurricane.
      • -
    • Yamaha Motocross World Championship bikes have the first Mono-Shock rear suspension.
      • -
    • FMVSS 123 standardizes motorcycle control positions.
      • -
    • The United Nations publishes ECE regulation 22.05 containing "uniform provisions concerning the - approval of protective helmets and their visors for drivers and passengers of motor cycles and - mopeds"
      • -
    • Lino Dainese founds his company making protective motorcycle apparel.
      • -
    • Brembo produces its first original equipment caliper for street bikes. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1973
    -
      -
    • Yamaha returns to FIM Grand Prix.
      • -
    • Jarno Saarinen and Renzo Pasolini are killed at the Monza Grand Prix race.
      • -
    • Honda introduces the Elsinore 250 dirtbike.
      • -
    • Kevin Cameron starts writing for "Cycle" magazine.
      • -
    • Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) created.
      • -
    • Agusta family sells 51% of MV Agusta to EFIM, a public financing group. - [1]
      • -
    • Honda creates RSC (Racing Service Center) to support European endurance racing efforts. - [1]
      • -
    • Moto Guzzi introduces the V850 GT and retires the V7 Special. - [1]
      • -
    • Bimota founded in Rimini, Italy by Valerio Bianchi, Giuseppe Morri, and Massimo Tamburini.
      • -
    -
    1974
    -
      -
    • Suzuki returns to FIM Grand Prix.
      • -
    • Honda introduces the GL1000 flat-four Gold Wing - intended to have Vetter Windjammer fairings sold as optional Hondaline - accessories, but the molds are accidentally destroyed.
      • -
    • Suzuki produces the Wankel rotary engined RE-5.
      • -
    • FMVSS 218 "Motorcycle Helmets" promulgated. This is the "DOT" helmet standard.
      • -
    • 55-mph speed limit established nationwide.
      • -
    • The Moto Guzzi V7 Sport becomes the 750S. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1975
    -
      -
    • Yamaha YZ-250 has the first production Mono-Shock rear suspension.
      • -
    • Giacomo Agostini on a Yamaha is the first two-stroke to win the 500cc Grand Prix. It's his 15th world championship title.
      • -
    • US nationwide mandatory helmet law repealed.
      • -
    • 4,964,070 motorcycles registered in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • US traffic fatalities: motorcycle-3,106; passenger car-30,601. - [1]
      • -
    • US mandates catalytic converters in cars, starting a phaseout of tetraethyl lead.
      • -
    -
    1976
    -
      -
    • Giacomo Agostini wins MV Agusta's last World Championship. - [1]
      • -
    • Suzuki introduces the GS750 and GS400, first of the GS series.
      • -
    • Honda introduces the two-gear clutchless CB750A Hondamatic.
      • -
    • Dr. Harry Hurt begins study of motorcycle crashes (the "Hurt Report") at USC with NHTSA funding.
      • -
    • The Moto Guzzi V7 850 California becomes the 850T California. - [1]
      • -
    • Honda introduces the composite Comstar wheel on the RCB-941 production endurance race bikes.
      • -
    • The "AMA News" magazine becomes a standard membership benefit, dropping the subscription fee. The AMA - is renamed to American Motorcyclist Association. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1977
    -
      -
    • Isle of Man TT is dropped from the World Grand Prix championship. - [1]
      • -
    • Yamaha OW35K features the first power valve controlling the two-stroke exhaust timing.
      • -
    • NHTSA funds rear-wheel-steering motorcycle project.
      • -
    • "AMA News" becomes "American Motorcycling" again. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1978
    -
      -
    • Claudio Castiglioni takes Cagiva into the motorcycle business and purchases an old Aermacci/AMF/Harley-Davidson factory in - Schirana, near Varese, Italy. - [1]
      • -
    • Honda introduces the inline-6 CBX-1000.
      • -
    • Kenny Roberts is the first American world Grand Prix champion.
      • -
    • Norton Villiers Triumph is liquidated.
      • -
    • Stock motorcycles run quarter-mile in less than 12 seconds.
      • -
    • VM Group buys Ducati.
      • -
    • Giuseppe Visenzi founds Givi, which becomes a major motorcycle luggage company. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1979
    -
      -
    • Suzuki introduces the Katana designed by Hans Muth.
      • -
    • Honda returns to FIM Grand Prix and introduces the 32-valve oval-piston V-4 NR500 to try to compete - with the two-strokes. Soichiro Honda hates two-strokes. The "back-torque limiter" to deal with the - excessive engine braking is the first slipper clutch, and the bike has a 28,000rpm redline. - [1] - [2]
      • -
    • The still naked Gold Wing is bumped to 1100cc.
      • -
    • Honda begins motorcycle production in North America. - [1]
      • -
    • US starts using methyl tertiary-butyl ether (MTBE) as a substitute for tetraethyl lead.
      • -
    -
    -
    1980
    -
      -
    • MV Agusta produces its last motorcycle. - [1]
      • -
    • 5,693,940 motorcycles registered in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • Honda GL1100I Gold Wing Interstate with full Vetter Windjammer style fairing, saddlebags and trunk is the first Japanese - "full-dress" touring bike.
      • -
    • Kawasaki Z1000 Classic equipped with the first electronic fuel-injection system.
      • -
    • US traffic fatalities peak: motorcycle-4,955; passenger car-34,996. - [1]
      • -
    • BMW R80G/S equipped with the first single-sided swingarm.
      • -
    • First International Motorcycle Safety Conference sponsored by MSF.
      • -
    -
    1981
    -
      -
    • 13 investors buy Harley-Davidson from AMF.
      • -
    • Mike Hailwood and his daughter Michelle are killed by a truck making an illegal turn. The truck driver - was fined £100.
      • -
    • Yamaha introduces the XS Eleven Venturer full touring bike.
      • -
    • "Motorcycle Accident Cause Factors and Identification of Countermeasures" (the "Hurt Report") - released.
      • -
    • NHTSA standardizes the 17-character VIN format.
      • -
    • Honda moves Gold Wing production to America. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1982
    -
      -
    • Honda introduces the GL1100A Gold Wing Aspencade, which is even more luxurious than the standard - model.
      • -
    • Brad Lackey wins 500cc Motocross Grand Prix World Championship with Steve Simons' UDX-60 inverted - forks.
      • -
    • Yamaha YZR500 OW61 equipped with the first aluminum beam perimeter frame, developed by Spanish - engineer Antonio Cobas.
      • -
    • Honda forms HRC (Honda Racing Corporation) - their racing development division combining the old RSC, - NR Block, No. 2 Research Section, and R&D. It is a completely separate company, isolated from the - Honda corporate board. - [1]
      • -
    • Mike Baldwin wins the AMA Formula One championship aboard a Honda FWS-1000. He did not crash the whole - season. - [1]
      • -
    • Brembo designs radial brake calipers, but they're rejected by Honda. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1983
    -
      -
    • MZ produces its two millionth motorcycle.
      • -
    • Andy Goldfine founds Aerostich to produce the Roadcrafter one-piece armored textile riding suits, - inspired by James Bond peeling off his wetsuit on the beach and walking away in a tuxedo in "Dr. No".
      • -
    • Freddie Spencer and Kenny Roberts win all 500cc races for the season between them.
      • -
    • Kawasaki introduces the GPZ-750 Turbo and Suzuki introduces the XN85, both of which are fuel-injected - and turbocharged.
      • -
    • Yamaha introduces the RZ-350.
      • -
    • Erik Buell builds his first bike, the RW-750.
      • -
    • 45% import tariff imposed on bikes greater than 700cc.
      • -
    • The Gold Wing is bumped to 1200cc.
      • -
    • Honda introduces the VF750F Interceptor, the first street bike with a slipper clutch.
      • -
    • Soichiro Honda retires.
      • -
    • Vetter Fairing Co goes bankrupt.
      • -
    • Triumph Engineering goes bankrupt and is bought by John Bloor. It's renamed Triumph Motorcycles.
      • -
    • Stock motorcycles run quarter-mile in less than 11 seconds.
      • -
    • Honda reaches 50-million-unit global production milestone. - [1]
      • -
    • Givi invents their Monokey luggage quick-attachment system. - [1]
      • -
    • Kenny Roberts retires from racing, with 2 Grand National Championships and 3 500cc GP - Championships. He was a three-time winner of both the Daytona 200 and the Imola 200, and was a six-time - winner of the Laguna Seca 200.
      • -
    -
    1984
    -
      -
    • Berliner Motor Corporation goes out of business.
      • -
    • Sealed beam headlights are no longer required. Composite headlamp assemblies with separate replaceable - bulbs are now legal.
      • -
    • Honda experiences endemic camshaft wear issues in all their V-4 engines, eventually determined to be - caused by too much bearing clearance.
      • -
    • Harley-Davidson introduces the FXST Softail equipped with hidden rear suspension.
      • -
    • Kawasaki introduces the GPz-900 Ninja, the first fully-faired sportbike.
      • -
    • Yamaha introduces the FJ1100.
      • -
    • Michelin introduces radial tires in Grand Prix.
      • -
    • Zündapp goes bankrupt. The factory, tooling, and remaining stock is purchased by Xunda Motor Co - and shipped to China.
      • -
    -
    1985
    -
      -
    • 5,444,404 motorcycles registered in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • Freddie Spencer is the only person to win both the 250cc and 500cc Grand Prix World Championships in - the same year. He also wins the Daytona 200, Formula 1, and 250cc classes, becoming the only rider to - win all three divisions in a single year.
      • -
    • Yamaha introduces the V-Max muscle bike, which is produced essentially unchanged until 2008.
      • -
    • Honda introduces the gold-painted GL1200L Gold Wing Limited Edition with cruise control and PGM-FI - fuel injection.
      • -
    • Suzuki introduces their full dress tourer, the GV1400 Cavalcade.
      • -
    • Suzuki introduces the air/oil-cooled GSXR-750.
      • -
    • US traffic fatalities: motorcycle-4,415; passenger car-29,848. - [1]
      • -
    • 700,000 motorcycles sold in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • Cagiva buys Ducati for $5 million and Moto Morini. - [1]
      • -
    • Givi invents their Monolock luggage quick-attachment system for scooter top-cases. - [1]
      • -
    • Laverda dissolves.
      • -
    • Brembo registers the first patent for the radial master cylinder. It's used on Eddie Lawson's 1986 - Yamaha YZR500 OW81 which wins the 500cc GP championship. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1986
    -
      -
    • Cagiva buys Husqvarna's motorcycle division. - [1]
      • -
    • Final US model year of the RZ-350, which is the last street-legal two-stroke.
      • -
    • Yamaha upgrades the FJ1100 to become the FJ1200.
      • -
    • Suzuki GSX-R750R Limited Edition features a dry clutch.
      • -
    • Honda CR250 & VFR-750F equipped with the first cartridge forks.
      • -
    • Lamborghini produces six "Design 90" motorcycles with 1000cc Kawasaki engines.
      • -
    • Superbike ban proposed and defeated.
      • -
    -
    1987
    -
      -
    • Honda introduces the RC-30 homologation special with titanium rods and single-sided swingarm. It costs - $15,000.
      • -
    • Honda introduces the GL1500 flat-six fully-faired Gold Wing with a "reverse gear" powered by the - starter motor.
      • -
    • Michelin introduces the first commercial motorcycle radial tires, the A59X and M59X.
      • -
    -
    1988
    -
      -
    • Wayne Rainey wins the first 500cc race using carbon brakes at the British Grand Prix.
      • -
    • The BMW K100LT is equipped with the first anti-lock brakes. It has enormous hydraulic regulators on - the swingarm weighing almost 30lbs. BMW also introduces the K1 "high-speed sports-tourer" with a very - radical look. The R80GS and R100GS have Telever rear suspension, which is a 4-bar linkage that reduces - the "shaft drive effect".
      • -
    • "Cycle" magazine folds.
      • -
    -
    1989
    -
      -
    • Honda introduces the PC800 Pacific Coast with extensive bodywork and integral trunk that can carry - "two full-face helmets and two medium-sized gym bags, or four plastic bags full of groceries along with - a small bag of dog food". - [1]
      • -
    -
    -
    1990
    -
      -
    • 4,259,462 motorcycles registered in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • 303,000 motorcycles sold in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • Kawasaki introduces the Ninja ZX-11 which is equipped with the first ram air induction system, and it becomes the fastest - production motorcycle for six years.
      • -
    • Suzuki GSX-R400 & GSXR-1000 equipped with the first production inverted forks.
      • -
    • US traffic fatalities: motorcycle-3,128; passenger car-32,711. - [1]
      • -
    • During practice for the Grand Prix at Laguna Seca, Eddie Lawson had no brakes going into turn 2 at - 160mph. He ends up with just a broken heel. They found the brake pads laying on the track, and the clip - that should have held the retaining pin on the mechanic's work table.
      • -
    -
    1991
    -
      -
    • John Britten and a group of friends in Christchurch, New Zealand, build the first V1000 by hand.
      • -
    • Soichiro Honda dies at 84.
      • -
    • Kevin Cameron becomes editor of "Cycle World" magazine.
      • -
    • Cagiva buys the MV Agusta brand. - [1]
      • -
    • "Road Rider" magazine becomes "Motorcycle Consumer News". - [1]
      • -
    -
    1992
    -
      -
    • Honda introduces the NSR500 with a "big bang" engine.
      • -
    • Honda introduces the super light weight CBR900RR, weighing only 185kg. The Yamaha FZR1000 weighs 219kg - and the CBR600F2 is 183kg.
      • -
    • The Honda NR750 has 4 oval pistons, 32 valves, 8 titanium connecting rods, upside-down forks, carbon - fiber bodywork, side mounted radiators, under-seat pipes in a 4-stroke, slipper clutch, single-sided - swingarm, and fuel injection managed by a 16-bit ECU. It also has a $50,000 price.
      • -
    • The Suzuki GSXR finally becomes water-cooled.
      • -
    • Eddie Lawson retires from racing, with 31 GP wins.
      • -
    • The last section of the Interstate Highway System is complete. A coast-to-coast trip now takes only an - average of 42 hours, as opposed to the 62 days it took Eisenhower in 1919.
      • -
    -
    1993
    -
      -
    • Shinichi Itoh exceeds 200mph on the NSR500 at the Hockenheim Grand Prix.
      • -
    • Harley-Davidson buys 49% of Buell.
      • -
    • Ducati introduces The Monster.
      • -
    • Three-time 500cc champion Wayne Rainey is paralyzed at Misano.
      • -
    • The BMW R100RS has Telelever front suspension, which separates steering (handled by the forks) and - suspension (handled by an A-arm and a conventional shock)
      • -
    • The Yamaha GTS1000 has a RADD Inc. forkless single-sided front swingarm suspension designed by James - Parker. It also features the "Omega chassis concept" and costs $13,000. It sells for only two years in - the US.
      • -
    • Valentino Rossi starts racing on a 125cc Cagiva Mito.
      • -
    • AMA membership exceeds 200,000. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1994
    -
      -
    • The chain-driven F650 is the first BMW without shaft drive.
      • -
    • Polaris forms the Victory Motorcycles brand.
      • -
    • Ducati produces the stylish 916, designed by Massimo Tamburini.
      • -
    • Honda holds the first Honda Hoot in Asheville, NC.
      • -
    -
    1995
    -
      -
    • 3,767,029 motorcycles registered in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • 309,000 motorcycles sold in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • John Britten dies at 45 of inoperable skin cancer.
      • -
    • Kawasaki introduces the ZX-7RR homologation special.
      • -
    • US traffic fatalities: motorcycle-2,138; passenger car-31,914. - [1]
      • -
    • Kevin Schwantz retires from racing, with 25 GP wins.
      • -
    -
    1996
    -
      -
    • Honda introduces the CBR1100XX Super Blackbird to take the fastest production motorcycle crown from - the ZX-11.
      • -
    • Valentino Rossi starts Grand Prix racing on a 125cc Aprilia.
      • -
    • Suzuki GSXR-750 features the SRAD ram-air snorkels.
      • -
    • Texas-Pacific Group buys Ducati and Moto Morini from Cagiva for $325 million. Cagiva restructures - under the name MV Agusta. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1997
    -
      -
    • KTM Jackpiner 200 LE is the first production dirtbike with a hydraulic clutch. - [1]
      • -
    • Honda introduces the F6C Valkyrie, which is a GL1500 Gold Wing with a higher performance engine in a - fairing-less cruiser-style frame.
      • -
    • USC Head Protection Research Laboratory conducts feasibility study of updating FMVSS 218.
      • -
    • Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development/Road Safety Committee 9 (OECD/RS 9) Technical - Experts Group formed to develop common international methodology for in-depth motorcycle crash - investigation.
      • -
    • MSF and NHTSA sponsor development of the National Agenda for Motorcycle Safety.
      • -
    • Honda reaches 100-million-unit global production milestone. - [1]
      • -
    • The AMA creates the AMADirectlink.com website. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1998
    -
      -
    • Harley-Davidson buys 98% of Buell.
      • -
    • Yamaha introduces the R1.
      • -
    • Schuberth produces the "System 1" helmet for BMW, which is the first "modular" or flip-up helmet.
      • -
    • Stock motorcycles run quarter-mile in less than 10 seconds.
      • -
    • OECD common methodology first used in Bangkok, Thailand.
      • -
    • Honda holds the 5th Honda Hoot in Asheville, NC. (I attended on my RZ-350)
      • -
    • Aprilia uses Brembo radial calipers on their 250cc GP bike. - [1]
      • -
    -
    1999
    -
      -
    • MV Agusta is resurrected and produces the F4-750 Serie Oro. - [1]
      • -
    • Suzuki introduces the GSX1300R Hayabusa to take the fastest production motorcycle crown from the - Blackbird.
      • -
    • Japanese and European manufacturers agree to limit top speeds to 300km/h.
      • -
    • Suzuki introduces the SV-650 light sport V-twin.
      • -
    -
    -
    2000
    -
      -
    • US traffic fatalities: motorcycle-4,699; passenger car-30,628. - [1]
      • -
    • 4,346,068 motorcycles registered in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • 490,000 motorcycles sold in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • Aprilia buys Moto Guzzi.
      • -
    • Kenny Roberts Jr. wins the 500cc World Championship, making them the only father and son duo to have won the title.
      • -
    • Honda introduces the RC51 V-twin sportbike.
      • -
    -
    2001
    -
      -
    • Valentino Rossi wins the 500cc World Championship on a Honda NSR500, which is the final two-stroke - win.
      • -
    • The Suzuki GSXR-1100 is downsized to the GSXR-1000.
      • -
    • The Gold Wing is bumped to 1800cc.
      • -
    • Fabio Taglioni, chief designer of most Ducati motorcycles in the 1950s-1970s, dies at 81.
      • -
    • Honda holds the 8th Honda Hoot in Knoxville, TN instead of Asheville, NC. - [1]
      • -
    • Harley-Davidson introduces the V-Rod. The Revolution engine is co-developed with Porsche, and is the - first mass-produced overhead-cam and liquid-cooled engine from Harley-Davidson.
      • -
    -
    2002
    -
      -
    • MV Agusta goes into receivership (government control). - [1]
      • -
    • Brammo Motorsports founded.
      • -
    • FIM 500 Grand Prix is rebranded as "MotoGP" and restricted to 500cc two-strokes or 990cc - four-strokes.
      • -
    • The Aprilia RSV 1000 is the first production bike with a radial master cylinder. - [1]
      • -
    -
    2003
    -
      -
    • Ducati makes its Grand Prix debut.
      • -
    • Suzuki introduces the Gen-II SV-650 with fuel injection and pressure-cast frame.
      • -
    • Harley-Davidson buys 100% of Buell.
      • -
    • Yamaha introduces the FJR-1300.
      • -
    • Daijiro Kato killed in MotoGP race at Suzuka.
      • -
    • The Aprilia RSV Mille R is the first production bike with Brembo radial calipers. - [1]
      • -
    -
    2004
    -
      -
    • Malaysian auto manufacturer Proton buys majority share of MV Agusta for €70 million ($83 - million), allowing MV Agusta to exit receivership. - [1]
      • -
    • Piaggio buys Aprilia.
      • -
    • Honda introduces the Valkyrie Rune with a springer front suspension.
      • -
    • Honda reaches 10-million-unit annual production milestone. - [1]
      • -
    -
    2005
    -
      -
    • Maria Costello wins Isle of Man TT and becomes the first woman ever to claim an Isle of Man podium in a TT or Manx GP.
      • -
    • 6,227,146 motorcycles registered in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • 831,000 motorcycles sold in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • Proton sells its share in MV Agusta to GEVI S.p.A., an investment firm, for €1 with GEVI assuming - $126 million of MV Agusta's debt. GEVI then allows MV Agusta to refinance its debt. - [1]
      • -
    • Investindustrial Holdings S.p.A. buys Ducati.
      • -
    • The US Energy Policy Act of 2005 mandates fuel must be adulterated with ethanol.
      • -
    -
    2006
    -
      -
    • Yamaha celebrates its 50th anniversary with a limited edition R1-LE/SP in Kenny Roberts "bumblebee" - racing colors. The custom Öhlins suspension is developed by the YZR-M1 MotoGP team. It has a - slipper clutch and custom forged aluminum Marchesini wheels shaving nearly a pound off the unsprung - weight. Only 500 were made for the US and 500 more for Europe.
      • -
    • Honda GL1800 Gold Wing equipped with the first airbag.
      • -
    • Yamaha introduces the Gen-II FJR-1300, and the AE model is equipped with a computer-controlled - semi-automatic transmission.
      • -
    • Electricross founded and produces the "Drift" electric dirt bike. They become Zero Motorcycles in 2007.
      • -
    • CRP Racing established as the racing department of CRP Technology. - [1]
      • -
    -
    2007
    -
      -
    • MV Agusta sells Husqvarna to BMW for €93 million ($127 million). - [1]
      • -
    • Aprilia introduces the Mana 850 with a continuously variable transmission.
      • -
    • Three-time 500cc Grand Prix winner Norifumi Abe is killed on his scooter by a truck making an illegal - U-turn in Japan.
      • -
    • MotoGP is restricted to 800cc four-strokes.
      • -
    • Honda holds the 14th Honda Hoot in Knoxville, TN. (I attended on my V-Strom 650, which I traded for a - FJR-1300)
      • -
    • Michael Ranseder is protected by the first deployment of an electronically-controlled airbag in the - 125cc Valencia MotoGP.
      • -
    • Dainese acquires AGV Helmets.
      • -
    • The Ducati 1098 is the first production bike with Brembo monobloc radial calipers. - [1]
      • -
    -
    2008
    -
      -
    • The MZ factory in Zschopau closes.
      • -
    • Harley-Davidson buys MV Agusta Motor for $109 million, including $69 million in assumed debt, which - includes Cagiva. - [1]
      • -
    • Brammo Motorsports becomes Brammo, Inc and focuses on electric motorcycles.
      • -
    • Performance Motorcycles S.p.A. buys Ducati.
      • -
    • Honda celebrates producing 60 million Super Cubs.
      • -
    • Honda reaches 200-million-unit global production milestone. - [1]
      • -
    • Honda holds the 15th and last Honda Hoot in Knoxville, TN. (I attended on my SV-650) - [1]
      • -
    -
    2009
    -
      -
    • The MotoCzysz E1pc competes in (but does not finish) the new TTXGP electric race, which is one lap of - the Isle of Man Snaefell course.
      • -
    • Brammo introduces the Enertia electric motorcycle.
      • -
    • Harley-Davidson shutters Buell.
      • -
    • The R1 features a cross-plane crankshaft and big-bang firing order.
      • -
    • Yamaha redesigns the V-Max and renames it VMAX.
      • -
    • Honda introduces the VFR-1200A featurning an automatic dual-clutch 6-speed 3-mode transmission.
      • -
    • CRP Racing starts the eCRP project to develop a fully electric racing motorcycle. - [1]
      • -
    -
    -
    2010
    -
      -
    • Harley-Davidson sells MV Agusta to Claudio Castiglioni for €1 with $20 million cash in MV - Agusta's accounts, effectively paying Castiglioni $20 million to take MV Agusta back. - [1]
      • -
    • US traffic fatalities: motorcycle-4,324; passenger car-22,351. - [1]
      • -
    • 8,058,332 motorcycles registered in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • 439,680 motorcycles sold in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • The TTXGP becomes the Zero TT series.
      • -
    • Valentino Rossi breaks his leg during practice for the Italian GP and misses the first race in his - Grand Prix career.
      • -
    • Shoya Tomizawa killed in Moto2 race at San Marino.
      • -
    • CRP Group establishes the Energica Motor Company in Modena, Italy to build high-performance electric - streetbikes. - [1]
      • -
    • BRD Motorcycles is founded. They become Alta Motors in 2013.
      • -
    -
    2011
    -
      -
    • Marco Simoncelli killed in the MotoGP race at Sepang.
      • -
    • Claudio Castiglioni dies at the age of 64, and Giovanni Castiglioni becomes President and CEO of MV - Agusta. - [1]
      • -
    • Brembo introduces hydraulic quick-disconnects in the Ducati Desmosedici GP11 MotoGP bike brake - system. Mechanics no longer have to bleed the brakes after changing calipers. - [1]
      • -
    -
    2012
    -
      -
    • MotoGP raises size restriction to 1,000cc.
      • -
    • Cagiva shutters all brands except MV Agusta.
      • -
    • Ducati introduces the 1199 Panigale with the first electronically adjustable suspension.
      • -
    • Brammo delivers first Empulse.
      • -
    • Zero S is the first production electric motorcycle to exceed an EPA-estimated 100 miles on a single - charge.
      • -
    • Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. (a subsidiary of Audi AG) buys Ducati.
      • -
    -
    2013
    -
      -
    • Yamaha introduces the Gen-III FJR-1300.
      • -
    • "Electric Terry" Hershner becomes the first person to ride cross country on an electric motorcycle, - going from San Diego, California, to Jacksonville, Florida, in five days, with no support and using - existing charging infrastructure. The bike has an aerodynamic fairing designed by Craig Vetter. - [1]
      • -
    • Zero introduces its 102-volt "cellbox" battery architecture and proprietary air-cooled "Z-Force" motor.
      • -
    -
    2014
    -
      -
    • Mercedes-AMG acquires a 25% share of MV Agusta for an undisclosed sum. - [1]
      • -
    • Giovanni Castiglioni tells journalists at the launch of the Stradale 800 that MV Agusta does not plan - to ever produce small-displacement motorcycles and will instead continue to focus on producing high-end - motorcycles. - [1]
      • -
    • John McGuinness on the Mugen Shinden San breaks the MotoCzysz E1pc's TT Zero winning streak.
      • -
    • Honda celebrates producing 87 million Super Cubs.
      • -
    • Honda reaches 300-million-unit global production milestone. - [1]
      • -
    • "Electric Terry" Hershner becomes the first electric rider to earn an Iron Butt Award (Saddlesore - 1000) from the Iron Butt Association. He rode over 1,047 miles from Northern California to the Mexico - border and back, in 22 hours and 57 minutes using only ChargePoint charging stations. - [1]
      • -
    -
    2015
    -
      -
    • MV Agusta announces it is filing for bankruptcy protection from its creditors. - [1]
      • -
    • US traffic fatalities: motorcycle-4,736; passenger car-22,741. - [1]
      • -
    • 8,310,958 motorcycles registered in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • 500,700 motorcycles sold in the US. - [1]
      • -
    • Victory introduces the "uniquely styled" Vision tourer.
      • -
    • Polaris buys Brammo's motorcycle business.
      • -
    • The FJR-1300 features a 6-speed transmission and LED head/tail lights.
      • -
    • "Electric Terry" Hershner becomes the first electric motorcyclist to ride 300 miles on a single - charge. He carried 27 kWh of battery on board, more than a Nissan LEAF electric car. - [1]
      • -
    -
    2016
    -
      -
    • Honda introduces the $184,000 RC213V-S street-legal MotoGP replica.
      • -
    • At the 75th Daytona 200, Mike Barnes becomes the oldest winner at 47 years old.
      • -
    • Black Ocean Group (founded by Oliver Ripley and Timur Sardarov) and MV Agusta Holding (owned by the - Castiglioni family) inject capital into MV Agusta. - [1]
      • -
    -
    2017
    -
      -
    • Italian courts approve MV Agusta's restructuring plan. - [1]
      • -
    • MV Agusta Holding, now owned by Giovanni Castiglioni and Timur Sardarov, repurchases shares owned by - Mercedes-AMG and claims 100% ownership of MV Agusta. - [1]
      • -
    • Zero introduces an internal permanent magnet motor which solves overheating issues. Bike firmware can - now be updated via smartphone.
      • -
    • Polaris shutters Victory.
      • -
    • Nicky Hayden is killed by a car while on his bicycle in Rimini, Italy.
      • -
    • Kenny Roberts sells his Hickman, California ranch & training track, marking the end of the "Hickman - haul-ass club" where many champions such as Wayne Rainey, Eddie Lawson, Rich Oliver, Kenny Roberts - Junior, and Jorge Lorenzo, had trained on Honda XR100s since the '70s.
      • -
    • Honda celebrates producing 100 million Super Cubs.
      • -
    • Cummins buys Brammo's electric powertrain business.
      • -
    -
    2018
    -
      -
    • Timur Sardarov becomes CEO of MV Agusta, and Castiglioni assumes the role of President of MV Agusta. - [1]
      • -
    • Honda GL1800 Gold Wing features a robotically-welded frame and a double wishbone front suspension.
      • -
    • Honda reaches 20-million-unit annual production milestone. - [1]
      • -
    • Energica is chosen by Dorna as the single manufacturer for the FIM Enel MotoE World Cup. - [1]
      • -
    • Airbag systems are mandatory in MotoGP.
      • -
    • Alta Motors announces a partnership with Harley-Davidson for the development of future models of - electric motorbikes. However, HD walks out of the deal six months later and Alta goes bankrupt. Ty - Tremaine's third-place finish in Round 3 of the AMA EnduroCross Championship is the first podium by an - all-electric bike in an AMA-sanctioned professional series. - [1]
      • -
    -
    2019
    -
      -
    • Sardarov family buys out the Castiglioni family and acquires 100% of MV Agusta, with Timur Sardarov - becoming Chairman of the Board of Directors as well as the CEO. Giovanni Castiglioni transitions into an - advisory role with the company. - [1]
      • -
    • Honda reaches 400-million-unit global production milestone. - [1]
      • -
    -
    -
    2020
    -
      -
    • MV Agusta celebrates 75th anniversary. - [1]
      • -
    • "Motorcycle Consumer News" magazine folds. - [1]
      • -
    • "Motorcyclist", the longest continually-published US motorcycle magazine, folds. - [1]
      • -
    • "Cycle World" magazine folds. - [1]
      • -
    • Helmets in FIM Endurance World Championship and Endurance World Cup races must meet the the tough new - FIM Racing Homologation Programme (FRHP) safety standards. - [1]
      • -
    -
    2021
    -
      -
    • Moto Guzzi celebrates 100th anniversary with "special centennial celebratory livery" and a gala in - Genoa, Italy. - [1] - [2]
      • -
    • Vespa celebrates 75th anniversary, after having produced 19 million units. - [1]
      • -
    • Valentino Rossi announces his retirement from racing, and that this is his last season, after 26 - years, 115 wins, 235 podiums, and 9 world titles. - [1] - [2]
      • -
    • Ducati replaces Energica as official MotoE motorcycle manufacturer. - [1] - [2]
      • -
    • Steven Day crosses the US from Jacksonville Beach to San Francisco in 93 hours on his 2021 Energica - Ribelle becoming the first person to finish a cross-country electric motorcycle run in under 100 hours.
      • -
    -
    2022
    -
      -
    • Suzuki withdraws from MotoGP and the World Endurance Championship.
      • -
    • Andrea Dovizioso retires from MotoGP.
      • -
    -
    2023
    -
      -
    • Don Sakakura retires as President of Yoshimura Racing, ending a 43 year career. - [1]
      • -
    -
    -

    Copyright © 2017-2023 Charles E. Cash. All rights reserved.

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    Note: Wikipedia is not an acceptable source

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    Copyright © 2017-2023 Charles E. Cash. All rights reserved.