Sport And Racing Cars

Rossi pleased with improved Qatar showing

2009-04-18T20:26:00.000-07:00

Having finished fifth at the Losail International Circuit last year Valentino Rossi was pleased to have started the 2009 season - and his MotoGP title defence - with an improved second place in Qatar.

World Champion Valentino Rossi was unable to prevent Casey Stoner running away with a third consecutive season-opening victory at the Commercialbank Grand Prix of Qatar, but the brilliant Italian typically took the positives from his second place finish in the Arabian desert in Monday’s re-scheduled MotoGP race.

Rossi was amongst those who had stated after Sunday night’s rainfall that it was important to stay on at the floodlit Losail track to put on a show for the fans on Monday evening, and whilst he was unable to catch Stoner at the front of the race he did his level best at trying to hunt down the Ducati Marlboro poleman.

Starting from second on the grid Fiat Yamaha’s Rossi was unable to go with Stoner from the first lap and had to get past his own team-mate Jorge Lorenzo and his old friend Loris Capirossi - who eventually crashed - before he could attempt to pull back the Australian.

A three second gap between the leading pair was cut down to two by Rossi midway through the race but he could not make further progress against Stoner, who has a superb record at Qatar and dominated every session over the weekend – the 2007 World Champion eventually winning by nearly eight seconds.

Afterwards Rossi commented, “Today the conditions of the track were quite different to before and this evening in warm-up we encountered a couple of small problems related to tyres, so our strategy had to change slightly tonight. It’s a pity because I think last night we could have put up more of a fight, but anyway this is a good result to start the season, much better than last year.”

Analysing the race in more detail he continued, “I knew I needed a good start in order to go with Stoner but unfortunately I didn’t get one and I lost some time fighting with Lorenzo and Capirossi and by then Stoner had already gone! The middle part of the race was great fun and I made six or seven good laps to come much closer, but I knew I wouldn’t be able to continue in that rhythm, it was too risky for the tyres and I decided it was more important to take the 20 points.”

Summarising the first GP of the season in general and looking ahead to visiting Japan for round two – where he clinched the title last season – Rossi concluded, “Casey was very strong but he is always fast here and I believe that our potential is very good; I think that we can be back fighting again in Motegi. I am so glad we could race today after yesterday and I am satisfied to be leaving here having made a good start to the season. There is a long way to go!”

Takahashi completes first step of learning process

2009-04-16T20:19:00.000-07:00

Scot Racing Team’s Yuki Takahashi picked up his first MotoGP point on his debut in Qatar.

The 2009 season will be a matter of learning as quickly as possible for Yuki Takahashi in MotoGP, the Scot Racing Team rider who has moved up into the premier class from the 250cc category this year.

The 24 year-old found the going tough at the Commercialbank Grand Prix of Qatar, qualifying down in 17th position as he continues to acquire the art of 800cc riding. He nonetheless rode a steady race on Monday night, concentrating on avoiding errors, gaining experience from the competitors around him and ultimately picking his first – albeit solitary – MotoGP point in the process.

On his run to 15th place at the Losail International Circuit, in his first MotoGP appearance, the Japanese rider commented, “The best came at the end, when I had a chance to follow Marco Melandri for a long while. I studied him, and I got a lot of information about how to deal with the front tyre and about braking points. Obviously this was just my first race in the class. Not only that, but I’d never done a long run before.”

Reviewing his maiden Grand Prix amongst the big boys overall, the former 250cc race-winner added, “I'm satisfied. My target was learning the bike and how to compete against the best riders in the world. How to deal in the heat of the first laps, and strategies, and tactics. At the beginning of the race I lost a little time, but I didn’t want to make any silly mistakes. And at the end I was able to keep the same pace of the riders who were in the first groups. Now I can prepare for my home race, in just over a week, in Japan.”

United attitude spot on for Rooney

2009-04-16T20:18:00.001-07:00

Christiano Ronaldo's spectacular winning goal will have grabbed the headlines but Wayne Rooney was quick to commend Manchester United FC's all-round team performance after their 1-0 quarter-final win at FC Porto on Wednesday night.

'More solid'
United put their recent defensive wobbles behind them to earn their first shutout since 11 March and, in truth, they seldom looked like losing the lead given them by Ronaldo's sixth-minute strike. Rooney told uefa.com: "I thought we looked a lot more solid tonight. The last few weeks defensively we have been open and have conceded a lot of sloppy goals. We'd looked at the goals we conceded and they were poor goals to give away. We knew we had to get it right if we wanted to win the trophies we are involved in. Tonight was a bit similar to [the semi-final against] Barcelona last season where we defended really well, but we nicked a goal tonight to win the game."

Compact
Porto may have had 17 goal attempts but they managed only four on target – compared with ten in the 2-2 first-leg draw in Manchester. Nemanja Vidić said: "The difference between the first and the second leg was we defended as a team, we were compact." The Serbian also underlined the importance of defensive partner Rio Ferdinand's return from injury, adding: "Rio brought confidence to the team, he played well. I was happy to have him next to me."

Confidence
It was not just at the back that United impressed. The defending champions looked dangerous when they attacked, with both Ryan Giggs and Rooney himself – tireless in a wide role – catching the eye. "If you defend well then you always have opportunities on the counterattack," said Rooney. "I thought we had two or three good opportunities in the second half and maybe could have nicked another goal but the main thing is we went through. We have two difficult games against Arsenal [in the semi-finals] who we know are a good team but you have to be confident in yourself and hopefully we can get to that final."

I had it in my mind to shoot and try to score and that's what I didCristiano Ronaldo

'Unbelievable strike'
It can only help United if Ronaldo keeps producing special goals just when it mattters. The Portuguese attacker gave United the perfect start when he struck for the third successive UEFA Champions League game with that early long-range effort. "One of those moments that decides whether you win or lose," was the verdict of Dimitar Berbatov. Michael Carrick concurred: "It was an unbelievable strike. It put us in a good position because we started the game very well and I thought the goal was a big bonus for us and gave us something to hold on to." As for Ronaldo's own response, he was as direct as his shot: "I had it in my mind to shoot and try to score and that's what I did. It's the best goal I've ever scored. I've just seen the replay and I didn't realise it was 40 yards [36.5 metres] out and I hit it at 65mph - wow! This victory will give us confidence. The last five games we didn't play great, but I hope this will change that."

Drama in store in the last four

2009-04-16T20:14:00.000-07:00

Victories for Manchester United FC and Arsenal FC last night guarantee an English presence in the UEFA Champions League showpiece in Rome on 27 May, while a second successive all-English final would be on the cards if Chelsea FC were to get the better of FC Barcelona in the other tie. uefa.com looks at the history behind the fixtures ahead of the eagerly awaited last-four ties.

FC Barcelona v Chelsea FC
Tuesday 28 April – Camp Nou
Wednesday 6 May – Stamford Bridge

It is the third time the clubs have met in the latter stages. Barcelona won an epic quarter-final in 1999/00, 6-4 on aggregate after scoring twice in extra time, and also had the edge in the first knockout round in 2005/06 en route to winning a second European Champion Clubs' Cup. Twelve months earlier at the same stage John Terry headed a late winner to send the Blues through 5-4 on aggregate.

Barcelona have won four of the nine previous semi-finals they have contested – those successes coming in 1960/61, 1985/86, 1993/94 and 2005/06 – in addition to advancing to the 1991/92 final as winners of their last-eight group.

Barcelona's home record against English opposition is impressive, with 13 wins, nine draws and just two losses from 24 previous meetings. Both those defeats came against Liverpool: a 1-0 reverse in the 1975/76 UEFA Cup semi-final first leg, and then a 2-1 defeat in the 2006/07 first knockout round.

Last season's semi-final defeat by Manchester United means the Spanish club have won seven and lost nine of 16 two-legged contests against English opponents.

Chelsea are in the semi-finals for the fifth time in six seasons. Their victory against Liverpool last season followed two previous defeats by the Reds, while they also lost at this stage in 2003/04, succumbing 5-3 on aggregate against AS Monaco FC.

Manchester United FC v Arsenal FC
Wednesday 29 April – Old Trafford
Tuesday 5 May – Arsenal Stadium

Since meeting for the first time on 13 October 1894, the clubs have played 204 times. The Gunners have 77 wins to United's 82.

Apart from last season's final, Manchester United have never met an English club in the UEFA Champions League.

Arsenal have faced English opposition in Europe on two previous occasions, losing quarter-finals to Chelsea in 2003/04 and Liverpool last season.

United's ten preceding semi-final appearances have brought just three victories, the most recent being last season when they eliminated Barcelona on their way to a final victory against Chelsea in Moscow.

Arsenal have a 100 per cent record in UEFA Champions League semi-finals, having beaten Villarreal CF in their only previous appearance in 2005/06.

The clubs are the only teams to win the English league and FA Cup double three times. United did it in 1994, 1996 and 1999; Arsenal in 1971, 1998 and 2002.

Source :

UEFA Champions League : Quarter-finals

2009-04-16T20:11:00.000-07:00

Semi-finals

	Agg.		First leg	Second leg
Barcelona	-	Chelsea	28/04 »	06/05 »
Man. United	-	Arsenal	29/04 »	05/05 »

First-leg home team shown first.
First-leg home team score shown first for both legs.

Photo gallery

Top scorers »

8	Lionel Messi	Barcelona
7	Steven Gerrard	Liverpool
7	Miroslav Klose	Bayern
6	Lisandro	Porto
5	Emmanuel Adebayor	Arsenal
5	Thierry Henry	Barcelona
5	Alessandro Del Piero	Juventus
5	Karim Benzema	Lyon

Assists |
Shots on goal |
Shots wide |
Ruled offside |
Red card |
Yellow card |
Fouls committed |
Fouls suffered

Last updated: 15/04/2009 23:11 CET

UEFA Champions League
Quarter-finals
14 April 2009
Bayern - Barcelona
Chelsea - Liverpool
15 April 2009
Arsenal - Villarreal
Porto - Man. United

07 April 2009
Man. United - Porto
Villarreal - Arsenal

Fantasy-Highest scoring players

Value	Player	Team
59	Franck Ribéry	Bayern
59	Steven Gerrard	Liverpool
58	Lionel Messi	Barcelona
53	Frank Lampard	Chelsea
52	Miroslav Klose	Bayern
49	Lisandro	Porto
45	Xavi Hernández	Barcelona
43	John O'Shea	Man. United
42	Thierry Henry	Barcelona
41	John Terry	Chelsea

Porsche : Porsche 911 - 964 Printable version Porsche 911 - 964 Turbo S Leichtbau 1 of 80

2009-03-12T01:51:00.000-07:00

This car has been delivered new in France. It has only known 3 owners, the history is very well known and documented, and it is in a perfect shape and working order. We have tried to find some defaults on the car, but after close inspection, we have only noted five tiny stone chips on the front. The paint has received a Teflon treatment, and is very nice and neither the upholstery not the carpets show any trace of wear. The interior is a factory special order and is like the 959 comfort's ones. Apart from that the car is fully compliant with its original leichtbau specifications
It is very difficult to find a genuine 964 Leichtbau, as only 80 units have been produced to comply with the homologation regulations of the USA IMSA championship. Remarkably, Porsche has won this championship with this car. This is an opportunity not to be missed in a car collector's life. The few other cars available on the market are offered between 180.000 to 200.000 euros. This car is a real good deal.
We have not cleaned the car before the pictures were taken, and the car had just been driven on a 500 Km trip with bad weather. It is now far more beautiful after cleaning and polishing, and the paint shines like a new one.

This extremely rare 964 Turbo S Leichtbau is available in Paris with a french registration.

Source : www.carclassic.com

Cadillac 1933 V-16 convertible coupe

2009-02-18T14:51:00.001-08:00

Cadillac 1933 V-16 convertible coupe

Location: Los Angeles
Posts: 222

1932 Hupmobile Model 216-B Roadster

2009-02-18T14:49:00.000-08:00

This beautiful 1932 Hupmobile was an entry in the Pierce Park Car Show in Appleton, Wisconsin in 1992.

Classic Car Collection : Crosley Hot Shot 1950

2009-02-18T14:45:00.000-08:00

The most comprehensive Classic Cars & Collector Cars resources available to ... Other Classic Cars. CHRYSLER CORPERATION. Chrysler. DeSoto. Dodge. Mopar Muscle ...

Micro car classic car : Harding invalid carriage 1961

2009-02-04T17:14:00.000-08:00

Seller's description

Harding Model IV Bespoke invalid carriage extremely rare one of only 5 electric ones made and there are only 3 left

in known existence 2 of which are thought to run
Very nicely restored and 99% original this one runs perfectly with everything working as it should.

Item specifics - Cars & Other Vehicles
Manufacturer:	--	Colour:	Green
Model:	--	Engine Size:	1 cc
Type:	Three wheel invalid	Power:	--
Mileage:	--	Seats:	1
Doors:	--	MOT Expiry:	--
Reg. Date:	--	Drive Side:	--
Road Tax:	--	Previous Owners:	--
Exterior:	--	Transmission:	Automatic
V5 Document:	--	Fuel:	Electricity
Manufacturer's Warranty:	--	Service History:	--
In-Car Audio:	--	Safety Features:	--
Interior/Comfort Options:	--

mINI cARS : Microcar Minicar Classic Event

2009-02-04T17:07:00.000-08:00

Tags: bmw, boston, citroen, classic, fiat, gould, Isetta, massachusetts, messerschmitt, microcar, minicar

13th Annual Microcar Minicar Classic Event
n Newton MA.
A reporter for The Boston Globe filed a report on the meet (but mostly about Smart Cars)

Extreem Photo : SkateBoard Style

2009-01-26T06:53:00.000-08:00

Quiksilver King Of Snow

This innovative online snowboarding competition gives riders from all over the world the chance to pit their skills against each other

O'Neill Evolution......
The Evolution has begun and the training session are generating

Aston Martin V8 Coupe Automatic

2009-01-08T18:10:00.000-08:00

Price: 70 694 USD (52 000 EUR)

Year: 1982

Location: Europe

Mileage: 76 700 km (47 659 ml)

Chassis N.: V8SOL12334

Engine N.: V580/2334/S

Colour: Green

Interior: Beige leather

A very nice example of the now classic V8 coupe finished in British Racing Green with beige leather interior and green trimmings. A series IV (Oscar India V580) with an automatic transmission and AC and according to the current owner the vehicle was sold new in France and the first owner exported the vehicle to the US which explains the presence of additional side reflectors. The speedometer is however still in kilometres in conformity with the original specifications.

The paintjob was redone in 2004 as well as some important panel work including taking the body work to naked metal and a new bottom and a new base for the rear window between the two fuel tanks. The vehicle also underwent an extensive mechanical overhaul including a new radiator and a new stainless steel exhaust. An invoice for more than EUR 20 000 is available which details the work realised on both the mechanical and cosmetic elements.

The interior is in beautiful condition with the leather, carpet and woodwork all in in a beautiful state. The paintwork is very nice but we noticed some micro-scratches certainly caused by washing the vehicle. We also noticed the presence of some impacts on the corners of the front and rear bumpers. The engine runs perfectly and the stainless steel exhaust is pleasure to hear.

This vehicle presents an opportunity to acquire a very healthy and perfectly maintained car which has also undergone important work on both the mechanics and cosmetic elements.

Registered and available in France.

The price includes all European Union taxes and commissions.

Alfa Romeo RZ Zagato Spider

2009-01-08T18:00:00.000-08:00

Price: 55 060 USD (40 500 EUR)

Year: 1996

Location: Europe

Mileage: 24 000 km (14 913 ml)

Chassis N.: Upon request

Engine N.: Upon request

Colour: Yellow

Interior: Black leather

Very rare Alfa Romeo RZ Zagato roadster with production number 250 and one of the just 278 examples built. Delivered new to its first owner in France who soon sold it to its current owner a collector of fine Italian automobiles. The vehicle has just 24000 original kilometres and has been perfectly maintained by the official Alfa Romeo service network. The most recent service was completed at 19 475 km and the vehicle is today in perfect condition. Its full history is known and the vehicle will be delivered with its original manuals and books including the maintenance booklet.

Registered and available in France.

This vehicle is available immediately. The price includes all European Union taxes and commissions.

Car wheel close up

2008-12-27T18:10:00.000-08:00

auto automobile automotive background black car change circular clean closeup detail drive equipment fast garage gauges grip isolated lane mechanic new part pit pneumatic prepare presentation professional profile race radial rain recycle row rubber ruler shop spare speed stop texture tire traction transport tread tyre wheel winter yarns

2008 Audi R8 Aftermarket Audio System - Comple Mentary

2008-12-27T17:54:00.000-08:00

When An Audi R8's High-End Factory System Wasn't Up To Par, Aftermarket Was The Only Way To Go.

Outstanding cars don't always have the audio systems to match. Moise E. Hendeles learned this truth when he bought an '08 Audi R8. "After purchasing my Audi R8, I was extremely dissatisfied with the factory Bang & Olufssen upgrade audio system," he reveals. Even the car's sticker price of $140,000 isn't enough to overcome the limitations of a factory audio system. The disgruntled Hendeles stopped by Al & Ed's Autosound in West Hollywood, Calif., to see what could be done.
Meeting with installer Elie Rothstein, Hendeles learned about some solutions that would greatly improve upon the OEM sound system. Confident that Al and Ed's could meet his expectations, he gave Rothstein the go-ahead for the $10,000 install. After all, if you're spending $140K on a car, what's an extra 10 grand?

Subwoofer Enclosure And AMP RackEmbedded in the rear wall behind the seats, a subwoofer and amps add some powerful lows to the system. "The goal was to achieve a nice, tight bass response to complement the front speakers," Rothstein explains. "This was definitely achieved!" Flushed into the wall and hidden by the seats, you won't even know the Alpine amps and Pioneer subs are back there until you turn on the stereo. Carbon fiber by Sly Machines covers the custom enclosure, coordinating with the Audi's sleek aesthetics.

AMPS

wo Alpine PDX amplifiers power the system. For the front Focals, a four-channel PDX-4.100 pumps out 400 watts of power. Handling the subwoofer, a two-channel PDX-2.150 brings 300 watts.

Sub

Pioneer TS-SW104D slim line subwoofer pumps the bass from Hendeles' favorite rock songs right into the occupants' midsections. The new upgrades by Al & Ed's Autosound blow the original audio system out of the water and Hendeles couldn't be happier. The OEM system may have let him down, but the aftermarket sound met his expectations and then some.

art of Rothstein's plan was to retain the factory source unit by using a Rockford Fosgate 3Sixty.2 processor as an integration device. "This is the best way to integrate with the factory system," Rothstein says. "The built-in time alignment and EQ features truly made this system sound amazing."

Shifter Knob

on keeping with the carbon fiber on the vehicle's exterior, Rothstein used Sly Machines carbon-fiber trim liberally in the cabin. In addition to framing the factory head unit, the material adds some lightweight flair to the doors, the sub enclosure/amp rack, and, of course, the trim around the shifter.

Radar Detector

With a performer like the Audi R8, you know Hendeles can't possibly stick to the speed limit. The Passport radar detector helps keep traffic tickets to a minimum.

Doors

Keeping things simple, Rothstein disconnected the center channel and rear speakers. He then focused on the front only, mounting new speakers in the factory locations. A Focal K2 Power series three-way component set creates the soundstage. The 6.5-inch midbass and 4-inch woofer lodge in the doors, while the tweeter sits up in the sail panel.

Exterior

The '08 Audi R8 is gorgeous as is. Hendeles left the original body and wheels alone, making his only change in the engine compartment. There, he had the engine walls replaced with carbon fiber.

Massimo Moratti: "A very good year"

2008-12-23T04:09:00.000-08:00

MILAN - President Massimo Moratti gave a brief interview to journalists outside the Saras offices on Monday lunchtime.

President Moratti. It has been a wonderful 2008 for Inter. It's a pity about everything that was said after Siena...
"No, it's not. It's you who spoke badly of us. We deserve this first place in the table, just like we deserved to win the Scudetto. What happened in Siena was an incident that we admitted to, I don't know what more we could have done. It was in good faith, and this is very different to what happened years ago. The same thing happened to Juventus yesterday."

The two-legged tie with Manchester United is on the horizon.
"It's an interesting tie and we need it to verify our potential. And it's great for the fans because there will be a lot of interesting players on the pitch."

Are you expecting a full stadium at last in the first leg?
"What do you mean by at last? The stadium has already been full this season when they haven't banned the fans of other teams. So it will be full..."

Do Inter have a good chance of winning the Scudetto early and concentrating on the Champions League, or will Milan and Juventus make it harder for Inter than they have in past years?
"It was Roma that did this in past years and I always consider Roma a great team that play beautiful football. I think it will be a hard championship until the end because Milan have great quality and Juventus have great character, and we can't underestimate this. We have to continue with the same tempo. It won't be easy, but it's a duty, so let's hope we do well."

A lot has been said about Zlatan Ibrahimovic and José Mourinho, and a lot always will be said about them, but is there another player you want to say something about at the end of this year?
"Cambiasso is always to be taken into consideration. He doesn't always make the news, but he has certainly done well this year, too. Cordoba and Samuel have also done their best since returning from serious injuries, like Cruz, for example. But I want to name all of them because they have all done very well, and I'm very grateful to this team."

An adjective to describe this 2008?
"It has been a very good year that will enter football history with an Inter that has dominated, and now we have to show that we can do more. And perhaps with a bit more luck than last season so we can do better on the international stage."

Can you exclude resorting to the transfer market in January?
"Personally, I would exclude it."

Are you talking with Mourinho about Adriano? Does the player need a tutor?
"More than a tutor, he has had a crisis that he is trying to overcome. He has the qualities, so he's a player to always keep in consideration. He's one of the best in the world. It is our constant duty to recover him and we have to help him make the best possible recovery."

Sir Alex Ferguson : Boss relishing Jose Mourinho reunion

2008-12-23T04:01:00.000-08:00

Sir Alex Ferguson is relishing a reunion with Jose Mourinho after the Reds were paired with Internazionale in the Champions League knock-out stages.

Talking exclusively to MUTV in Japan, the boss said: "They kept us hanging being last out of the hat, but its interesting to come up against Jose again. He's a character with a good personality and I've always got on well with him.

"He knocked us out of the competition with Porto, so I hope we have the luck they had in that tie this time round. Inter have had a tremendous domestic record recently and that speaks volumes for the consistency of their team.

"They've got a lot of experience which includes a few South American players. In fact, I think they've only two Italians in their team. That represents a challenge because you know South American players are very tough defensively and resilient players.

"We've played against most of their players over the years and met them in a friendly last year at Old Trafford. So we know about them. Hopefully we'll do the job in the first game and give ourselves a platform to take back to Old Trafford.

"Playing against bigger teams always brings focus to our game, as we showed against Barcelona last season. The most important thing in that tie was to concentrate, and our concentration was terrific.

"The San Siro is a great stadium. We played Inter in the quarter-final in '99 and there were problems with the pitch, it had been relaid a couple of weeks before. But now it's much better. We've been knocked out twice there by AC Milan so we want to go there and do better. Now the competition really gets going and all the English teams have a good chance. I'm happy with our draw."

2008 - The year in women's football

2008-12-23T03:59:00.000-08:00

Next year is set to be a watershed in European women's football but there was plenty to remember in 2008.

EURO excitement
UEFA WOMEN'S EURO 2009™ runs from 23 August until 10 September next year, with a record 12 teams involved in the finals and hosts Finland hoping for an average attendance of more than 10,000. The organisers will no doubt hope for as much excitement as there was in the qualifying group stage. While first holders Germany and then Sweden clinched automatic finals places with games to spare and ultimately perfect records, the other four groups went to last-match deciders where the teams in second were at home to the leaders. In two the home sides overtook their opponents, France beating Iceland 2-1 and Denmark defeating Ukraine 1-0, while England came from two goals down to get the 2-2 draw they needed in Spain and Norway held Russia 0-0.

Play-offs
At that point, only one of the eight 2005 finalists, Italy, were not already through but they defeated the Czech Republic 3-1 on aggregate in the play-offs to put that right. Iceland, Ukraine and the Netherlands reached the finals for the first time, defeating the Republic of Ireland, Slovenia and Spain respectively, while Russia repeated their 2001 feat but needed away goals to see off Scotland. The draw was held in Helsinki on 18 November: the full fixture list can be seen by clicking here.

German success
Prior to the end of qualifying, Germany, Sweden and Norway travelled to China for the Olympics. Sweden and Norway fell in the quarter-finals and after losing to Brazil, Germany clinched a third consecutive bronze medal 2-0 against Japan while the United States pipped Brazil for gold. Still, Germany will aim for a third straight FIFA Women's World Cup at home after being named 2011 hosts.

Youth events
At youth level Germany won the first UEFA European Women's Under-17 Championship in May in Nyon but two months later lost their grip on the U19 title, Italy beating Norway in the final in France. In the inaugural FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in New Zealand, Germany beat England 3-0 for third place while North Korea took the title against the United States. Similarly, in the U20 event in Chile, Germany overcame France to claim the bronze medal, while the US turned the tables on holders North Korea in the final.

Women's Champions League
At club level, the UEFA Women's Cup will be transformed in 2009/10 after it was announced in December that a new UEFA Women's Champions League will take its place, with more entries, more two-legged knockout rounds, and a one-off decider on the eve of the UEFA Champions League final in the same city. That said, the 2007/08 UEFA Women's Cup final was memorable enough after 1. FFC Frankfurt and Umeå IK beat ASD CF Bardolino Verona and Olympique Lyonnais in the last four.

Frankfurt thrill fans
With the victors to become the first three-time winners, Marta scored in the opening seconds of Umeå's home leg only for Frankfurt to peg back to 1-1 and in the return a week later a competition record crowd of 27,640 was thrilled by the German side's 3-2 victory. However, Frankfurt departed the 2008/09 edition in the quarter-finals against league rivals FCR Duisburg. Duisburg will meet Lyon in the semi-finals in the spring while another club new to the tournament, Zvezda-2005 of Russia, face Umeå.

Future bright for Europa League

2008-12-23T03:56:00.001-08:00

One of European football's most historic competitions is being given a total makeover in 2009. The UEFA Cup, which was launched in the 1971/72 season, is to become the UEFA Europa League for the beginning of the 2009/10 campaign as work continues to enhance the image and profile of European club football's second club competition.

New logo
The competition will have a new 48-team group stage with centralised marketing of media rights, a presenting sponsor and an official match ball. It will also have centralised sponsorship from the knockout stage and a new logo and visual identity. The revamping of the competition follows the decision by the UEFA Executive Committee on 30 November 2007 to alter the format of the UEFA Cup and create a group stage in which teams play each other on a home-and-away basis.

Sporting appeal
The new name and logo is designed to emphasise the special character and unique sporting appeal of a competition that has proved its worth over more than three decades. Europa is an ancient Greek word which is understandable in all languages. UEFA's ambition in making these changes is to rejuvenate the competition in the light of the new European football landscape, which has shifted significantly with the continued success of the UEFA Champions League, so that the UEFA Europa League can establish itself as a major competition. "We believe that a new name and a new brand identity will help with sponsors and with the whole identity of the competition," UEFA General Secretary David Taylor told uefa.com when the new name was announced at the UEFA Executive Committee meeting in Bordeaux in September.

Twelve groups
The UEFA Europa League will feature 204 matches plus the final. The group stage will comprise 48 sides, split into 12 groups of four. The top two teams in each group will qualify for the knockout phase and will be joined by the eight clubs that finish the group stage of the UEFA Champions League in third place. The knockout stage, with 32 sides and four rounds, will lead to the final, played in a single match at a neutral venue. There will be four qualifying rounds instead of the current two, with an increased number of clubs as a result of the incorporation of places from the discontinued UEFA Intertoto Cup.

Thursday matches
UEFA Europa League ties will be played on a Thursday night – or on a Wednesday night during exclusive UEFA Europa League weeks – with two kick-off times, in principle at 19.00 and 21.05CET according to local situations. The final will take place on a Wednesday at 20.45CET.

UEFA Champions League

2008-12-23T03:53:00.000-08:00

Group stage
09 December 2008
Barcelona - Shakhtar
Basel - Sporting
Chelsea - CFR Cluj
Marseille - Atlético
Panathinaikos - Anorthosis
PSV - Liverpool
Roma - Bordeaux
Bremen - Internazionale
10 December 2008
Celtic - Villarreal
Dynamo Kyiv - Fenerbahçe
Juventus - BATE
Lyon - Bayern
Man. United - AaB
Porto - Arsenal
Real Madrid - Zenit
Steaua - Fiorentina

2009 Dodge Journey

2008-12-10T07:38:00.000-08:00

Chrysler’s first crack at a crossover, the minivan-based Pacifica was neither roomy, inexpensive, nor fuel efficient ended up a bust after five years on the market aand was quietly put out of its misery this year.

Humbled by the car-buying public’s total lack of enthusiasm for its luxurious self-styled “segment buster,” Chrysler returned again to the crossover segment with its 2009 Dodge Journey.

The Journey, like the Pacifica, is also a mid-size crossover available with three-row seating. But that’s about the only common ground between the two.

Built using Dodge Avenger bones, the Journey is similar in size to the $26,870 Chevrolet Equinox. Its rivals in this crowded segment are not only the General Motors crossovers, but also the $23,999 Ford Escape and $25,995 Hyundai Santa Fe (and others). Yet the new Dodge crossover’s pricing is more in line with less expensive compact cars.

Unlike the Pacifica, which Chrysler tried to sell in the $40,000-plus range, a front-wheel-drive/four-cylinder/five-passenger base Journey SE can be had for $19,995. That includes air conditioning, heated exterior mirrors, power windows, door locks, stability control and six-CD stereo.

Even a fully loaded AWD V6 R/T Journey with a DVD screen, three-row leather seating and a personal masseuse (okay, no personal masseuse) can be rolled out of Dodge showrooms for under $35,000 — about the price of a mid-range Honda CR-V.

So right away, Dodge has everyone’s attention with its dollar store pricing. My Journey SE, even with the Plus package (floor mats, a cargo cover, illuminated vanity mirrors, keyless entry, cruise control, security alarm, roof rail crossbars) came to only $20,995.

But what — if any — are the compromises of a vehicle that can be had for thousands less than its competition?

First off: based purely on roominess and unique storage solutions, the interior is hard to fault.

Stealing from Chrysler’s clever minivans, useful touches include a hideaway compartment under the front passenger seat cushion and in-floor storage bins in the second row. With removable plastic liners, you can add ice and use them like coolers. And the middle section of the second-row seat drops for long items to pass through.

If that’s not enough, five-passenger models possess 1,121 litres of cargo room with the rear seats up. Fold them down, and you get 1,915 litres, plus a large storage compartment under the cargo floor that three-row Journeys don’t have.

Just don’t expect any of the luxury touches or refined driving qualities from the late Pacifica showing up in the new Journey.

Not only does the Dodge’s cabin scream “cost cutting” with bland plastics and a back-to-the-Seventies cubist design theme, some of its ergonomic solutions are downright abominable — right up (down?) there with Dodge’s lamentable Nitro:

• The Journey’s standard tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel helps you find a good driving position, but the seats are Saskatchewan-flat and prairie hard;

• Its four-speed automatic’s shift lever is positioned too far back from the driver;

• Perhaps the most egregious ergonomic error is the obstruction of the driver’s instrumentation by the steering wheel. It blocks the temperature gauge and the right half of the tach. The irony here is that there’s room in the panel for both gauges to be located lower, where they would be seen.

What gives? Didn’t anyone at Chrysler sit in the Journey before the final design sign-off?

I’d like to say the Journey SE Plus test car made up for its ergonomic mess by inspiring the driver in me. But sadly, that wasn’t the case either.

Definitely, with its pillowy ride and balloon 70-series Hankook all-seasons, the Journey SE Plus delivers a serene and quiet ride on smooth pavement. Bumps and potholes are nicely absorbed, too.

It’s all perfect if your idea of a spirited drive is getting a great parking spot at the grocery store.

But the Dodge’s engine roar, when you accelerate to highway speeds, enhanced by the long gaps between the mandatory four-speed automatic ratios, negates any driving serenity when pushing on it.

Throw in finger-light steering, a predilection to roll in tight corners, brake pedal feel that rivals the Hankook’s compliant sidewalls and it’s easy to see the Journey SE Plus’s ride-and-drive paradigm was the vehicle it theoretically replaces in Dodge’s lineup — the short wheelbase Caravan minivan.

At least the Journey’s 173 hp 2.4 L four delivers decent fuel economy. It’s rated at 11.0 L/100 km city, 8.0 highway, with an as-tested 10.5. That’s better than the Hyundai and Chevy V6s, but about the same as the four-banger Ford and Honda.

Dealers and crossover buyers have had to wait a long time for a competitive Dodge crossover. And in the areas of roominess and low pricing, the new Journey certainly delivers — and then some.

In the ensuing years, however, between the launch of the Pacifica and the debut of the Journey, the mid-sized crossover segment has rapidly matured.

Customers aren’t impressed anymore by one or two clever packaging tricks. They can now get functionality, human-friendly ergonomics, decent performance and fuel economy all wrapped in if not one, but several crossover offerings that are rivals to the new Dodge.

American Racing Wheels

2008-12-10T07:26:00.000-08:00

American Racing

are now available from Custom Wheels Distributing. American Racing builds wheels that are of the highest quality custom wheels available today. American Racing offes some of the hottest new styles available, in the sizes you need, at a price you can afford. You can purchase your American Racing or a custom wheels and tire package online or over the phone. We offer live help from 8am to 8pm central standard time. Our experts are here to assist you in selecting the correct American Racing for your car, truck, or SUV. With our low price guarantee, You can feel confident you are getting the best price available as all of our American Racing are at discounted wholesale prices. We offer American Racing in all sizes, and offer the best selection of American Racing available today.

American Racing Wheels - Cannon / 1091

American Racing Wheels - Burn / 337

American Racing Wheels - Black Trench / 320

American Racing Wheels - Black RT-S / 311

American Racing Wheels - Black Razor 6 / 300

American Racing Wheels - Black Fuel / 321

American Racing Wheels - Baja Polished / 172

American Racing Wheels - Atlas Polished / 160

American Racing Wheels - Assault / 324

American Racing Wheels - AR-23

Dub Custom Wheels

2008-12-10T07:08:00.000-08:00

Brand: Dub Custom Wheels

Model: Dub Custom Wheels - X180 Custom finishes available

are now available from Custom Wheels Distributing. Dub Custom Wheels builds wheels that are of the highest quality custom wheels available today. Dub Custom Wheels offes some of the hottest new styles available, in the sizes you need, at a price you can afford. You can purchase your Dub Custom Wheels or a custom wheels and tire package online or over the phone. We offer live help from 8am to 8pm central standard time. Our experts are here to assist you in selecting the correct Dub Custom Wheels for your car, truck, or SUV. With our low price guarantee, You can feel confident you are getting the best price available as all of our Dub Custom Wheels are at discounted wholesale prices. We offer Dub Custom Wheels in all sizes, and offer the best selection of Dub Custom Wheels available today.

For more information or to place an order please call toll free.............Customwheel.com - 1.888.266.5177

Best Car Deals for December 2008

2008-12-10T07:06:00.000-08:00

November sales results showed the American auto industry in a tailspin, and auto company executives are driving (not flying) to Washington to beg for federal aid.

Trust us, this is terrific news for deal seekers.

More from U.S. News & World Report

» December Car Lease Deals

» 5 Ways to Get the Best Car Deal in a Down Market

Just as automaker CEOs are desperate for bailout money, auto dealers are desperate for your money - and they're willing to bend over backwards and even alter the calendar to get it.

General Motors began its holiday special -- the Red Tag Event -- early this year, and it continues through December. That means no-haggle pricing and significant discounts on everything GM makes. Ford is offering employee pricing to everyone, interest-free financing and cash-back deals -- often all three in combination.

And luxury automakers are in on the act, too. Lexus started its "December to Remember" sale in November, and has extended it into January. Infiniti has beaten what Lexus has to offer, with zero-percent financing on many models. Even BMW is offering finance rates below 1 percent on many cars.

Whatever automakers tell the press about car prices, keep in mind that the best incentive may be the one you negotiate yourself. Dealers are reporting a 50 percent drop off in showroom foot traffic as compared to last year. Low traffic means low sales and the potential to negotiate a great deal. Also, more and more 2009 models are hitting dealer lots, which means they have a need to unload the remaining 2008s. Before heading out, be sure to check out our guide to negotiating in a down market and use our online tool to get price quotes from multiple dealers.

Carmaker	Car Deal	Expires
BMW	0.9% APR financing on most 2008 models	12/31/08
Buick, GMC, Cadillac, Chevrolet, HUMMER, Pontiac, Saturn, Saab	Red Tag Event Sale "no haggle pricing" on most cars, including discounts up to 10%, plus cash back offers on many models	1/5/09
Ford	Employee pricing discounts, can be combined with 0% financing offers on many 2009s	1/5/09
Infiniti	0% Financing on most 2009 models	1/5/09
Lexus	Low lease rates on certain models	1/5/09
Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep	Up to $6,000 cash back on selected models	TBA
Kia	0% financing on 2008s Up to $5,000 cash back on Sedona, Sorento and Amanti	1/1/09
Acura	0.9% financing rates for 24 to 36 months on most models	1/4/09
Mercedes Benz	Low lease rates or 3.9% financing on most models	1/2/09

The Best Deals we found in December are listed below:

2009 Hyundai Accent GS

$9,470 after $500 cash back

There is a fight brewing over who can build the least expensive car in America. Last month, Nissan priced the most stripped-down edition of its Versa subcompact under $10,000 for the first time. This month, Hyundai has undercut Nissan's price - by exactly $20. Sure, it's only $20, but for those looking for inexpensive transportation, we think the Hyundai Accent is actually a better deal. According to J.D. Power and Associates, it's the Most Dependable Sub-Compact Car, and it comes with a 10-year,/100,000-mile powertrain warranty -- nearly double Nissan's coverage. This month, the 2008 Accent GS is available with $1,000 cash back -- bringing the price of a new car, under warranty, to below $9,500. Members of the military can even cut the price by another $500.

MSRP: $11,070-$15,870

Invoice: $10,822-$15,406

2009 Ford Fusion

Employee Pricing + up to $2,500 cash back or 0% APR

Six months ago, $15,500 would have bought you a nice small car. Today, it will buy you a nice midsize car. If you were to max out Ford's current Employee Pricing Plus deal and bring in outside financing so that you could take advantage of $2,500 cash back, you could pay just $15,492 for one of our highest-ranked midsize cars -- about what you would expect to pay for its smaller Focus sibling in an ordinary year. The Fusion ranks highly against the competition for its cornering prowess and stylish look -- and it's never been so inexpensive to own.

MSRP: $19,035-$25,605

Invoice: $10,822-$15,406

2008 Infiniti EX

0% APR for 36 months

The Infiniti EX is the driving enthusiast's SUV. It's the only rear-wheel-drive compact SUV, making it feel more responsive and balanced than many rivals. Its powerful V6 is quick, its richly-appointed interior is a nice place to spend time, and its "Top Safety Pick" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives drivers confidence. As part of Infiniti's Limited Engagement Winter Event, the EX can be purchased without interest -- but polish up your credit score before applying. The offer is only for "well qualified buyers."

MSRP: $31,900-$36,850

Invoice: $29,343-$33,880

2008 Saturn Outlook

Red Tag Sale Pricing Plus $2,750 Cash Back

The Outlook handles like a much smaller vehicle and is an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety "Top Safety Pick" for its strong crash test scores and standard stability control. It's also a serious family hauler -- while the third-row seats of many SUVs are just token gestures, this one is comfortable even for adults. Right now, GM's no-haggle Red Tag Sale, combined with a generous cash rebate, knocks almost $4,000 off the price of a 2008 Outlook. A comparable 2009 will set you back almost $4,000 more -- but there's no significant difference between the two. Head straight for the '08 -- and in this tough time for car dealers, you might want to try haggling down that no-haggle price.

MSRP: $28,625-$33,035

Invoice: $27,051-$31,218

2008 Chevy Tahoe

Red Tag Sale discount plus up to $7,500 cash back

GM built too many Chevy Tahoes, and is now discounting them heavily just to move them off of dealer lots. The manufacturer's Red Tag Sale plus several cash-back offers that can be combined means buyers can now drive off the lot in a Tahoe at a discount of more than $10,000. Those who need the towing capability and seating capacity of a large SUV know that few trucks combine utility and comfort like this one -- and that discount is hard to beat.

MSRP: $34,630-$39,560

Invoice: $31,686-$36,197

2008 Chevy Silverado

Red Tag Sale pricing plus up to $5,500 cash back

New Ford F-150 and Doge Ram trucks are stealing all of the headlines, but the 2009 Chevy Silverado still beats them both in our rankings. It combines rugged strength with everyday comfort and five-star crash test ratings. With GM's no-haggle Red Tag Sale this December, some Silverado models of (trust us, there are more configurations than you can count) are available at nearly $10,000 off MSRP. Maybe fewer of us buy trucks as toys these days -- but they are necessary tools and everyday transportation for millions of Americans. Heavy discounts on the top truck on the market make this a great time to buy.

MSRP: $17,590-$38,950

Invoice: $16,623-$35,639

2008 Dodge Viper SRT10

$5,000 cash back

A 12-mile stretch of twisting asphalt outside Nürburg, Germany is the toughest test in the world for performance cars. The 2008 Viper SRT10 is now the master of it, having posted the fastest lap time ever achieved by a production car on the ‘Ring earlier this year. But Dodge, a unit of struggling Chrysler, can't sell Vipers no matter how hard it tries. The company has considered selling off or just ending the Viper line of cars because, in these hard times, few people want to buy a world-class performance car. But if you do, Dodge is now offering $5,000 off the car before you even walk in the door -- and since you may be the first potential Viper buyer the dealer has met in quite a while, there's even room to negotiate from there.

MSRP: $85,545-$86,295

Invoice: $78,380-$79,048

More Info About The Cars Mentioned in This Article

2008 Saturn OUTLOOK

MSRP:$28,625 - $33,035
2009 Hyundai Accent

MSRP:$11,070 - $15,070
2009 Ford Fusion

MSRP:$19,035 - $25,605
2008 Chevrolet Tahoe

MSRP:$34,630 - $48,490
2008 Chevrolet Truck Silverado 3500HD Regular Cab 4WD

Esurance Auto Insurance Glossary

2008-12-10T06:52:00.000-08:00

Esurance Auto Insurance Glossary: A

Accidental Death Coverage

Accidental death coverage is sometimes a part of your auto insurance policy's Personal Injury Protection or First Party Benefits plans.

If someone who's covered dies from accident-related injuries, this type of auto insurance coverage may provide a payment to the insured's designated beneficiary.

Actual Cash Value

You'll see this term a lot in auto insurance policies or if you ever have to file an auto insurance claim. That's because most auto insurance coverage reimburses you only for the actual cash value of your car. Your car's actual cash value is calculated by determining its original value, minus the amount your car has depreciated since you bought it.

Adjuster

An adjuster is the person who investigates and settles auto insurance claims.

Agent/Broker

Agents and brokers both sell and manage insurance for their customers. Agents are the authorized representatives of an insurance company or companies, while brokers are the authorized representatives of people looking for insurance.

Anti-Theft Recovery System

These systems consist of an electronic device that's installed in a concealed area of your car. If your car is stolen, you can activate the device and it will emit a signal that can be used to locate your car.

Anti-theft recovery systems can be effective over a radius of several miles, depending on local geography. Ask your car dealer or nearby police department which brand of recovery systems are supported in your area. By installing an anti-theft recovery system, you may be eligible for an auto insurance discount.

Esurance Auto Insurance Glossary: B

Benefit

A benefit is the amount paid by an auto insurance company to you or your beneficiary when you file a claim.

Bodily Injury Liability Coverage

Bodily injury liability coverage protects you if you are held responsible for injuring someone in a car accident.
This coverage helps pay for the injured party's medical expenses and lost wages. Bodily injury liability may also help pay your expenses in a related lawsuit.

The amount covered is capped at the limits you select when you buy your auto insurance policy.

Broadform Collision Coverage

This auto insurance coverage is available only in Michigan.

Broadform works like standard collision coverage, but also pays for collision damage to your insured car regardless of who's at fault.

Although this auto insurance coverage will pay up to your car's actual cash value regardless of fault in an accident, you'll be responsible for the deductible amount you select if you're found to be more than 50 percent responsible for the accident. If you're less than 50 percent responsible, you won't have to pay this deductible.

Business/Commercial Use

This classification means that you mainly use your car for business purposes (such as sales, service, and delivery calls) or work-related errands (like trips to the bank or post office), and other work-related driving. Commuting to and from work is not considered business use.

Esurance doesn't currently provide auto insurance coverage for vehicles driven primarily for business/commercial use. (Not sure if this applies to you? We show you a checklist to help you figure out if business/commercial use applies to you when you get your auto insurance quote.)

Esurance Auto Insurance Glossary: C

Card ID Number

When you pay for your auto insurance policy with a credit or debit card, we ask for the card's ID number. This 3-digit number is printed on the signature strip of cards with the MasterCard, Visa, and Discover logos. American Express card ID numbers are 4 digits long, and are printed on the card's front side, immediately above the actual card number.

To better safeguard your security, many businesses like ours are starting to ask for a card ID number. The card ID number helps ensure that no one is able to make a purchase without having an actual credit or debit card in their possession.

Claim

An auto insurance claim is a policyholder's request to be reimbursed for a loss that's covered by insurance.

Collision Coverage

Collision coverage helps pay for auto repair or replacement costs if your car hits another vehicle/object or if your car rolls over.
The maximum amount paid for repair or replacement is the car's actual cash value, minus the amount of the deductible you choose when you buy your auto insurance policy.

Collision Deductible Waiver

This auto insurance coverage pays the deductible for your collision coverage if you're involved in an accident in which an uninsured motorist is held legally responsible.

This particular auto insurance coverage isn't available in all states. If it is available, you have to buy this coverage with collision coverage when you buy your auto insurance policy.

Commuting

If you primarily use your car for commuting, this means that you mainly use the car to drive it to and from work or school.

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage helps pay for damage to your car resulting from fire, certain natural disasters, falling objects, and vandalism. Theft's also covered.

The maximum amount paid for repair or replacement is the car's actual cash value, minus the amount of the deductible you choose when you buy your auto insurance policy.

Continuously Insured

The length of time you've been continuously insured is the number of years you have been covered by one or more auto insurance companies without a lapse in your coverage.

Esurance Auto Insurance Glossary: D

Deductible

For some types of auto insurance coverage, you're asked to choose a deductible. A deductible is the amount of damages you agree to pay for if you file an auto insurance claim.

Though choosing a higher deductible can substantially lower your auto insurance premium, if you file an auto insurance claim, you'll have to pay the full, pre-established amount of the deductible out of your own pocket in order to receive payment from your auto insurance company.

Declarations

The declarations page of your auto insurance policy summarizes the factual information essential to your auto insurance coverage: the policyholder's name and address, a description of the insured vehicles, the auto insurance premium, as well as the coverages, limits, and deductibles.

Defensive Driver and Driver Improvement Courses

These courses consist of defensive driving training for drivers of all ages as well as "mature driver safety courses" intended for drivers age 55 and over.

In certain states, you may qualify for an auto insurance discount if you're in the eligible age range and if you've taken one of these safety courses.

Depreciation

Depreciation is the decline in an object's value due to age, wear and tear, or obsolescence.

Esurance Auto Insurance Glossary: E

Effective Date

The effective date is the date your auto insurance coverage begins. You are not covered by car insurance prior to an auto insurance policy's effective date.

Emergency Road Service

This optional auto insurance coverage pays a fixed amount toward vehicle towing if your car breaks down or if your car gets disabled in an accident.

Endorsements

Also known as riders, endorsements are changes to the original insurance contract. In auto insurance coverage, endorsements may include changing your deductibles or adding a new car to your auto insurance policy.

Exclusions

Exclusions are situations that are not covered by a given auto insurance policy. Specific exclusions are listed in your auto insurance policy.

Extraordinary Medical

Extraordinary medical coverage is sometimes a part of Personal Injury Protection or First Party Benefits plans.

Extraordinary medical coverage protects you in the event you suffer accident-related injuries that require serious and/or long-term medical care. Extraordinary medical coverage begins once you have exhausted the limit on your standard medical benefits coverage.

Esurance Auto Insurance Glossary: F & G

First Party Benefits

First Party Benefits, or FPB, is a kind of optional auto insurance coverage available to Pennsylvania drivers.

Depending on the specific FPB coverages you select, if you're injured in an accident, FPB covers you and relatives residing in the same household for medical expenses, lost income, accidental death, and/or funeral costs. The amounts covered are capped at limits you select when you buy your auto insurance policy.

Full Coverage Auto Insurance

Full coverage auto insurance denotes an insurance policy containing all auto insurance coverage legally required in a given state. The term “full coverage” does not imply the policyholder will always be fully covered.

Funeral Benefits

Funeral benefits coverage is sometimes a part of your auto insurance policy's Personal Injury Protection or First Party Benefits plans. If a covered individual dies from accident-related injuries, this auto insurance coverage pays for a portion of funeral expenses, regardless of who is at fault in an accident.

Covered costs are subject to the limits you choose when you buy your auto insurance policy.

Garaging Location

The garaging location is where your insured car is parked most of the time. This location is usually indicated by the ZIP Code of the policyholder's primary residence.

Esurance Auto Insurance Glossary: I & J

Income Loss

Income Loss coverage is sometimes a part of your auto insurance policy's Personal Injury Protection or First Party Benefits plans.

Income loss coverage protects you if you're unable to work due to accident-related injuries. This auto insurance coverage helps you recover portions of your lost salary and other expenses you may incur as you try to return to work.

Indemnity

An indemnity is a pre-determined sum paid for a covered loss.

Insurance Claim Report

Insurance claim reports provide details about auto insurance claims you or other insured drivers have filed with insurance companies. These reports are provided by independent consumer reporting agencies that collect auto insurance claim information from a variety of insurance companies. One of the most common agencies issuing such reports is C.L.U.E., the Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange.

Insurance Score

Insurance scores are based on analytical models that objectively measure the relative likelihood of future insurance losses based on your credit history. These scores and analyses of their significance are provided by independent consumer reporting agencies.

Insured

The insured is an individual covered by a given auto insurance policy.

Judgment

A judgment is a final decision rendered by a court of law. For example, in a lawsuit related to an auto accident, where Kate hit Eric’s fence, the court determined that Kate was wholly responsible for the accident. The judgment determined that Kate should pay for the costs of repairing Eric’s fence.

Esurance Auto Insurance Glossary: L & M

Liability

Liability is a term that broadly means legal responsibility. If you run a stop sign and hit another car, you may be found liable for the damages to the other driver's car.

Liability Coverage

Liability coverage protects you from having to deplete your assets to pay for damages if you're held responsible for injuries or damages arising from a car accident.

The two main types of liability coverages in an auto insurance policy are bodily injury and property damage.

Limits

Limits are the maximum amount an insurance company will pay for a covered loss. Though you can choose your limits for certain coverages, some states require you to buy certain levels of auto insurance coverage. In such states, you'll have to choose limits that at least meet your state's auto insurance requirements.

Medical Benefits

Medical Benefits coverage is sometimes a part of your auto insurance policy's Personal Injury Protection or First Party Benefits plans.

Medical expenses that are the direct result of accident-related injuries are covered. Covered medical expenses are capped at the limits you choose when you buy your auto insurance policy.

Medical Payments Coverage

This auto insurance coverage pays medical bills and/or funeral expenses if a covered driver and/or accompanying passengers are injured or killed while in an insured vehicle, regardless of fault in an accident.

This may also cover policyholders and their family members when in others' vehicles, or when policyholders and their family members are on foot and hit by a car.

The amount paid by medical payments coverage is capped at the limit you choose when your buy your auto insurance policy.

Motor Vehicle Report

A Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) provides information on your driving record. This report includes accidents and moving violations. Auto insurance companies obtain MVRs from states where you or other insured drivers have been licensed to drive.

Esurance Auto Insurance Glossary: N

National Credit File

The National Credit File provides objective consumer information regarding the financial history of an individual. Information contained in this report is often used to calculate insurance scores.

No-Fault Insurance

If a type of auto insurance coverage is described as no-fault, this generally refers to the way the insurance company settles a covered auto insurance claim.

Generally, if a certain coverage is no-fault, responsibility doesn't have to be assigned before an auto insurance claim gets settled.

No-Fault States

In some states, called no-fault states, insurance companies are legally required to pay a policyholder's covered losses, regardless of who's held responsible for an accident.

Some no-fault states also restrict the right to sue for damages. In states without no-fault regulations, the insurance company covering the person who caused an accident is forced to pay for covered losses.

Non-Passive Alarm

A non-passive alarm has to be manually activated every time you leave the car. If someone attempts to open your car, the alarm sounds, and the system disables the automobile's starter, ignition system, and/or fuel circuit.

You may qualify for an auto insurance discount if your car is equipped with such an alarm.

Esurance Auto Insurance Glossary: P

Passive Alarm

Passive alarms are automatically activated and emit warning sounds when someone tries to get into your car. Once the passive alarm has been triggered, the system disables the automobile's starter, ignition system, and/or fuel circuit.

You may receive an auto insurance discount if your car is fitted with such an alarm.

Personal Injury Protection

Personal Injury Protection, or PIP, is a kind of auto insurance coverage available only in certain states, where it's often mandatory. PIP generally includes expanded coverage of accident-related medical costs. In some states, PIP also pays for lost wages and similar losses.

Specific protections afforded by this type of auto insurance coverage and limits on PIP payments vary widely from state to state.

Pleasure Use

If you use your car for pleasure, this means that you typically drive it for fun, with no regular commuting or business use.

Policy Expiration Date

Your auto insurance policy's expiration date is the date when auto insurance coverage ends if your auto insurance policy isn't renewed. The expiration date can be found on the declarations page of your auto insurance policy, on a proof of insurance card, or on a recent auto insurance renewal notice.

Policy Term

A policy term is the length of time an auto insurance policy is valid. Auto insurance policies from Esurance have a policy term of 6 months.

Primary Driver

The primary driver is the person who drives a car most frequently.

Primary Use

A vehicle's primary use is how the car is typically used. Auto insurance companies usually classify primary use as commuting, business/commercial, or pleasure use.

Primary Policyholder

The primary policyholder is the person who serves as the main point of contact with Esurance. Since he/she is the main point of contact, we need the primary policyholder's valid email address so that we can send account updates, auto insurance renewal notices, and other policy-related communication.

Typically, the primary policyholder is also the person billed for your auto insurance policy from Esurance. If you prefer, any other person listed on your auto insurance policy can also be billed for your auto insurance premium.

Property Damage Liability Coverage

Property damage liability coverage protects you if you are held responsible for damaging someone else's property in a car accident.

Property damage coverage helps you reimburse another person for their damaged property (such as a car, a fence, or a home). This type of auto insurance coverage also helps pay your expenses in a related lawsuit.

The amount covered by property damage liability is capped at the limit you choose when you buy your auto insurance policy.

Esurance Auto Insurance Glossary: R, S, & T

Rental Car Reimbursement

Rental car reimbursement is an optional kind of auto insurance coverage that helps pay for your rental car expenses if an insured car is damaged or stolen and you need a rental car.

SR-22

An SR-22 is an official document that shows proof of financial responsibility. Courts may require an SR-22 or a similar form for people convicted of certain traffic violations.

Secondary Driver

A secondary driver is one of the drivers listed on your auto insurance policy who's insured for driving an insured vehicle. However, this driver is not a car's primary driver.

A secondary driver is also sometimes known as an occasional driver in auto insurance terminology.

Supplemental Spousal Liability

Supplemental spousal liability, or SSL, is an optional coverage, available only in New York State.

This type of auto insurance coverage protects you if you’re found to be at fault in an accident resulting in injury or fatality to your spouse.

The amount covered by SSL is capped at the limit you choose when you buy your auto insurance policy.

Stacking - Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Bodily Injury Coverage

Stacking is an option available when you buy uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage. Stacking changes the limits for this type of auto insurance coverage.

When you choose stacking, uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury limits increase by the number of cars you're insuring. If you buy $50,000/$100,000 limits for uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage, choose stacking, and insure 2 cars, stacked limits for this coverage then equal $100,000/$200,000.

Steering Restraint

A steering restraint is a durable collar or shield fitted to the upper and lower casing of your car's steering column. The collar makes it harder for potential thieves to access, or "hotwire," your car's ignition system.

You may qualify for an auto insurance discount if your car is fitted with a steering restraint.

Tort

Tort is a legal term used to describe instances when someone is deemed legally responsible for injuring another person or damaging his/her property.

Some states ask you to select a tort provision. In these states, you can limit your right to sue for non-monetary damages (like pain and suffering) in exchange for a reduced auto insurance premium.

Towing Coverage

This type of auto insurance coverage is optional, and pays a fixed amount toward towing if your car breaks down or if it's disabled in an accident.

Esurance Auto Insurance Glossary: U & V

Underinsured Motorist Bodily Injury Coverage

Underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage is available in some states, where it's often mandatory.

This type of auto insurance coverage pays for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages when you or your passengers are injured in an accident caused by a driver who has insufficient auto insurance coverage.

This kind of auto insurance coverage typically pays the difference between the coverage limit you select and the other driver's bodily injury coverage limit.

The amount covered by underinsured motorist bodily injury is capped at the limit you choose when you buy your auto insurance policy.

Underinsured Motorist Property Damage Coverage

Underinsured motorist property damage coverage is available in some states, where it's often mandatory.

This type of auto insurance coverage protects you if your car is damaged in an accident caused by a driver who has insufficient auto insurance coverage. Other specific protection afforded by this type of auto insurance coverage varies from state to state.

This kind of auto insurance coverage pays the difference between the coverage limit you select and the other driver's property damage coverage limit.

The amount covered by underinsured motorist property damage is capped at the limit you choose when you buy your auto insurance policy.

Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury Coverage

Uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage is available in some states, where it's often mandatory.

This kind of auto insurance coverage pays for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other general damages when you or your passengers are injured in an accident caused by a driver who has no car insurance. Uninsured motorist coverage also pays for injuries sustained in hit-and-run accidents.

The amount covered by uninsured motorist bodily injury is capped at the limit you choose when you buy your auto insurance policy.

Uninsured Motorist Property Damage Coverage

Uninsured motorist property damage coverage is available in some states, where it's often mandatory.

This kind of auto insurance coverage protects you if your vehicle is damaged in an accident caused by a driver who has no car insurance. Other protection afforded by this type of auto insurance coverage varies from state to state.

The amount covered by uninsured motorist bodily injury is capped at the limit you choose when you buy your auto insurance policy. In some states, you'll need to pay a deductible each time you file an auto insurance claim.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Bodily Injury Coverage

In some states, both uninsured and underinsured motorist bodily injury are bundled into a single coverage. In the states where this type of auto insurance coverage offered, it may be mandatory.

This kind of auto insurance coverage pays for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages when you or your passengers are injured in an accident caused by a driver who doesn't have enough car insurance, or who completely lacks auto insurance coverage. This type of auto insurance coverage also pays for injuries sustained in hit-and-run accidents.

The amount covered by uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury is capped at the limit you choose when you buy your auto insurance policy.

VIN

The VIN, short for Vehicle Identification Number, is the unique 17-digit number found on every car. The VIN contains the vehicle's serial number, as well as abbreviations for the make, model, and year.

The VIN appears on your vehicle registration card. It's also engraved in your car, near the base of the windshield on the driver's side dashboard and/or on the edge of the driver's side door.

Though you don't need to enter your VIN when you get an auto insurance quote from Esurance, you will need to provide your car's VIN when you buy your auto insurance policy.

Tips : How to negotiate your car insurance

2008-11-29T06:05:00.000-08:00

This is Tip for the Save $1,000 in 30 Days Challenge. (See past tips.)

Today’s tips is to negotiate your car insurance. Most of us pick a rate once, then never go back again. But if you do, you can save hundreds of dollars each year.

First, check to see if you have the right amount of coverage. Nobody teaches us about this stuff, so when you bought car insurance, you may not have known which coverage options to choose.

Second, figure out what kind of coverage you currently have and how much you’re paying. Don’t be lazy — do this. If you don’t have your current info in front of you, how can you hope to save? Either call your car insurance company or use their website.

Third, it’s time to start shopping around. I prefer the phone because I can usually sweet-talk the rep into telling me about other deals that the websites don’t offer. Computers, however, seem to be immune to my charm.

Fourth, be an expert caller by asking these questions.

With each call, you should say, “AAA (or whoever) is offering to insure me for $XXX less” (silence). See what they do. (Note: Getting lower rates using this technique is much harder to do with car insurance companies than banks, so don’t expect very much from this.)

How much would I save if I insure my car and house with you?

What about renewal discounts? How long have I been a member with you? What can you offer me as a discount for long-term membership?

Can I save money by pre-paying my entire year up front?

Let’s check my car. I know other firms offer discounts for features like anti-lock breaks. What about you?

What kind of low-mileage discounts do you offer?

If I enrolled in a defensive-driving course, what kind of discount would you offer? Oh, really? Which courses qualify?

What about discounts for my employer? (Tell them the specific name of your employer?)

Some insurance companies offer discounts for low-risk occupations (engineers). What kind of competitive rates do you offer?

Am I paying for roadside assistance? What other additional “benefits” am I paying for? (If you already pay for AAA, you don’t need roadside assistance through your car insurance. Also, check your credit card: They may offer roadside assistance (but call them and ask how much it really costs if you have to use it – some of their offers for “roadside assistance” really mean “we will assist you by calling someone for you and then charging you out the ass”).

Can you walk me through the deductible changes I could make to save money? (Deductibles are what you pay before your insurance policy kicks in. By requesting higher deductibles, you can lower your costs substantially. For example, increasing your deductible from $200 to $500 could reduce your collision and comprehensive coverage cost by 15 to 30 percent. Going to a $1,000 deductible can save you more than 40%. Before choosing a higher deductible, be sure you have enough money set aside to pay it if you have a claim.

AAA, Costco, credit cards, large employers, associations (AARP, teachers’ union): Many of these offer discounts on car insurance. Log onto their website and browse to “perks.”

Don’t forget: Insurance is not a commodity. If you pick the cheapest provider to save $50/year and they end up not fulfilling your claim — which you could have reasonably known by searching out reviews for the company — it’s your fault. Pick a good company because it can be worth thousands of dollars.

As you’ve seen, “negotiating” your car insurance is mostly about keeping up with the changing rates and making sure you’re wringing every last benefit from your policy, so set a calendar reminder to do this once per year.

Try it out and let me know what you find in the comments.

Total savings: $25 to $100 per month

Last thing to do
1. Check out the other tips in the Save $1,000 in 30 Days Challenge
2. Leave a comment on this post describing how much you’re saving with this tip and any unusual techniques you use to make this tip work.
3. Want to submit your own savings tip? Submit a money tip here. Most of the tips you guys submit are absolutely horrible, so if I use your tip, I’ll send you something cool.

MotoGp : Stoner's recovery progressing well

2008-11-29T06:02:00.000-08:00

Casey Stoner says his recovery is progressing well following surgery to his wrist, and the former MotoGP champion will begin training soon

MotoGp : Suzuki positive of winter progress

2008-11-29T06:00:00.000-08:00

Loris Capirossi and Chris Vermeulen are confident that the factory Suzuki team will make significant progress with the GSV-R over the winter following a successful three days of testing at Phillip Island in Australia this week, before the testing ban comes into force until the end of January.

The pair sampled a host of prototype parts for the 2009 bike and also conducted two race simulation runs each to test next season's proposed single spec Bridgestone tyre.

"I really enjoyed the test because we tried a lot of things and were able to get through a lot, which produced very clear and positive results," said Capirossi. "We compared many things, tested two new chassis and lots of new parts, and we now understand much better how they work together.

"We were able to compare the old and new bikes and the 2009 prototype is definitely better, especially when the tyre is worn we can maintain a better lap-time, so this is a good step. We still have some work to do - especially to improve the engine still further – but it has been a really positive three days for us."

Vermeulen added: "It was a good test and I think I managed to get almost 250 laps done in the three days, which is about 1100km.

"We had a lot of new parts from Suzuki to try including, front forks, rear linkages, new frames and swinging arms and we also tested some control tyres from Bridgestone - which look like they will be the spec tyre for next year - and they worked pretty well with the bike straight away.

"We have definitely taken a step forward with the bike. I am really looking forward to the first test of next year and being able to use the new stuff that Suzuki will be able to develop from the results we have had here."

Valentino Rossi: Fastest time mentally important

2008-11-29T05:59:00.001-08:00

Valentino Rossi says it was psychologically important to set the fastest time in the final test of 2008 at the Jerez circuit.

The world champion worked with both the 2008 and a prototype of the 2009 Yamaha at the Spanish circuit and just edged Honda rival Dani Pedrosa near the end of the final day of testing.

Pedrosa was also riding a 2009 prototype and Rossi reckons it was important to beat the Japanese squad to the top of the times ahead of the testing ban.

"We've done a good job. I concentrated on the new bike, and managed to end 2008 ahead of everyone. It's been an extraordinary and wonderful year for me, I'll remember it forever," Rossi was quoted as saying by Gazzetta dello Sport.

"From a certain point of view, to be quickest here meant nothing, but from a psychological aspect it's important.

"Indeed, when I got the fastest time, Pedrosa got back on the track to beat me, but didn't manage to. Going on vacation in first place is a lot more relaxing."

He added: "We tried different parts for the engine and worked on the frame, and in the end we found a set-up I liked. After this test, they'll have a lot more indications to build the 2009 M1 in Japan.

"I was the quickest, but Pedrosa was overall more consistent than me with the hard tyre. That means Honda looks strong, even though Dovizioso didn't go too well.

"Stoner, Ducati's strongest rider, is missing, but the good laptimes set by Hayden and test rider Guareschi confirm that the GP9 has improved.

"The first proper test with the new tyres went fairly well. Surely it will be difficult for Bridgestone to choose the right tyre to bring to each track. The problem is that two compounds only are too few. The riders asked for one more choice, but didn't get it."

Why Loeb and Sarrazin swap cars for a day

2008-11-29T05:56:00.000-08:00

World rally champion Sebastien Loeb and former Le Mans Series champion Stephane Sarrazin swapped cars in France yesterday with Loeb taking the wheel of a Peugeot 908 HDi at Paul Ricard and Sarrazin sampling a Citroen C4 WRC on a nearby gravel stage.

Loeb, who contested the 2005 and 2006 Le Mans 24 Hours in an LMP1 Pescarolo, drove five laps of the circuit in a specially-converted two-seater 908, before taking 15 laps on his own - lapping just over a second off a time set by Sarrazin.

"It was great fun and I'm delighted that Stephane and I were given this opportunity to test our respective cars," said Loeb. "What is always impressive about sports prototypes and single-seaters is their speed and the amount of downforce they generate, but I have to say that I was struck by the amount of torque delivered by the Peugeot's diesel engine.

"I was a little surprised by the restricted visibility you get from the closed cockpit, but I soon felt confident enough to start pushing a little harder and I savoured every minute of the experience. The time passed so quickly and I didn't want to give the car back afterwards."

Then Sarrazin, who competed in the WRC for Subaru in 2005 and 2006, was given a passenger ride around the 3km stage in Domaine de Riboux by Loeb before taking over behind the wheel for 12 runs through the course - setting similar times to Loeb.

"It's been a tremendous thrill to drive the C4 today," said Sarrazin. "Maybe we could swap places for an event? Sebastien could take my place on an endurance race and I could drive his car on a rally!

"Compared with the rally cars I have driven in the past, I was impressed by its overall balance and more especially by how easy it was to set up into the corners.

"It really is a very efficient machine, and very predictable - you immediately feel confident enough to start pushing hard. It was great and I would love to have carried on a little longer."

Both Loeb and Sarrazin will contest the final round of the French Rally Championship - Rallye du Var - this weekend. Loeb will be co-driven by his wife in a Citroen C2 Super 1600, while Sarrazin will be joined by Jacques-Julien Renucci in a Peugeot 207 RC Rallye.

What happened to Kimi Raikkonen?

2008-11-29T05:54:00.000-08:00

Kimi Raikkonen had a poor season by his own standards, and ended up playing second fiddle to Felipe Massa. But occasional flashes showed that his speed is still in there somewhere, so what went wrong? Edd Straw explains

Giancarlo Fisichella: No doubts about 2009 seat

2008-11-29T05:47:00.000-08:00

Giancarlo Fisichella insists there are no doubts about his continued presence at the Force India team in 2009, despite the deal with McLaren-Mercedes.

"The line-up has been announced in China in October by Vijay, and I trust people who trust me," Fisichella told the official F1 website.

"I originally signed a two-year contract which was reviewed in September to incorporate the McLaren deal. In a few words, the team offered me a better car and a different package.

"I accepted their proposal and both sides signed the new document between Singapore and China. This is why Dr Mallya made the announcement in Shanghai," added the Italian.

Although team boss Vijay Mallya said both Fisichella and Adrian Sutil would stay on next season, speculation about their future was rife after McLaren test driver Pedro de la Rosa tested for the team for two days earlier this month.

Force India signed a technical deal with McLaren and Mercedes and the Silverstone-based squad will use the German engines in 2009.

Fisichella said he was not surprised by de la Rosa's test.

"The only thing I know is that in September we were told that Pedro could test and we could not say before it was made official so I was not at all surprised," he added.

"As for the rest - I am not really interested in F1 gossip!"

The Roman admitted he is looking forward to next season, as he has been promised he will have a strong car.

"A competitive package, that's all I want and what I have been promised. And that is a very good reason to drive for the team in 2009."

Salom wins penultimate CEV Buckler round

2008-11-11T00:30:00.000-08:00

Spaniard wins in Valencia to keep championship challenge alive.

Runner-up in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup in 2008, Luis Salom tasted victory in another championship this past weekend, winning the penultimate round of the CEV Buckler Spanish Championship. The Spaniard overcame some familiar faces to World Championship fans in Sunday´s 125GP event, held at Valencia.

After a furious final lap, Salom edged out fellow countrymen Efren Vazquez and Adrian Martin as the podium places were decided, with former 125cc World Championship rider Pere Tutusaus just missing out on the rostrum.

Salom´s victory reduces the championship advantage held by Vazquez to just nine points, with Alberto Moncayo´s fifth place in Valencia ruling him out of the title running.

The final round of the CEV Buckler takes place on November 16th in Jerez, where the 2008 series winner will be decided.

Source

Final 2009 Rookies selection event takes place at Estoril

2008-11-11T00:23:00.000-08:00

The sun was out on Saturday in Estoril for a beautiful second day at the final selection event for the 2009 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup.

Riders came from New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, Malaysia and across Europe from Sweden to the Czech Republic, putting their talent on the line at the Portuguese Grand Prix circuit of Estoril over the weekend, for the last selection event of the 2009 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup.

Hiroshi Aoyama, a Grand Prix winner who finished second in Estoril in 2006, was on hand to give the young riders the benefit of his experience and commented, `It is very nice to see so many young riders here enjoying themselves. I have never seen anything like it. We certainly did not have it in Japan when I started riding. There is so much talent here and they are so young, they have so much possibility for improvement it is very difficult to pick the right riders to go forward to the Rookies Cup.´

The riders come from very different backgrounds, some with a good amount of experience on 125cc Grand Prix style machinery, others had to learn new skills in a short time. One example is Arthur Sissis, the 13 year-old Australian, more accustomed to racing speedway who thrilled everyone with some sideways moves on the 125cc. `It´s great to be here, a fantastic experience,´ he enthused. `I´m having great fun on the track. I think the most difficult part was the tight twisty section, that´s a real test of skill.´

For others the travelling itself was something new as it was for Syafiq Omar, the 16 year-old Malaysian. `This is the experience of a lifetime for me, to come to such a great track and get the international experience. It is all very new to me and not easy of course but I am learning the bike and the track. It is a lot of fun and I am trying very hard to get into the Rookies Cup. That would be fantastic.´

On the other hand some of the youngest participants already have lot of racing under their belt including 12 year-old Briton Fraser Rogers. He has been racing since he was six but said that the Estoril Circuit was the best he has seen, `I like Anglesea and Donington but this is more fun I think. It is also more technical and it´s warmer here. I like this track´s tight twisty corners but it is also flowing.´

`At home I race an RS125 Aprilia but the Metrakit is smaller, faster and nicer really. I like it. I really want to get into the Rookies Cup, it´s wicked, I want to race on the same tracks as the MotoGP guys and be in the same paddock. I´ve learnt a bit of Spanish and French, enough to order food and say if the bike is good or not,´ said Rogers, obviously well prepared for the life of an international superstar.

The two days of testing resulted in a list of nine riders who will be invited to take part in the 2009 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup joining those from 2008 who have been invited to return.

Invited riders from Final Selection Event:
Robin Barbosa (FRA)
Brad Binder (RSA)
Xavier Figueiras (ESP)
Taylor Mackenzie (GBR)
Alexander Kristiansson (SWE)
Manuel Pardo (ITA)
Alex Rins (ESP)
Fraser Rogers (GBR)
Arthur Sissis (AUS)

Provisional 2009 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup Entry List
Robin Barbosa (FRA)
Brad Binder (RSA)
Deane Brown (GBR)
Kevin Calia (ITA)
Alessio Cappella (ITA/NGR)
Xavier Figueiras (ESP)
Hayden Gillim (USA)
Daijiro Hiura (JPN)
Taylor Mackenzie (GBR)
Nelson Major (FRA)
Florian Marino (FRA)
Dylan Mavin (AUS)
Leandro Mercado (ARG)*
Jakub Kornfeil (CZE)
Alexander Kristiansson (SWE)
Manuel Pardo (ITA)
Alex Rins (ESP)
Fraser Rogers (GBR)
Daniel Ruiz (ESP)
Mathew Scholtz (RSA)
Arthur Sissis (AUS)
Benny Solis (USA)
Harry Stafford (GBR)
Nico Thöni (AUT)
* TBC

Source

Chevrolet Enters the World of Supercars Sport with Corvette ZR1

2008-09-24T09:23:00.000-07:00

Chevrolet officially announced the 2009 Corvette ZR1 – an American supercar that brings the technology and engineering refinement of carbon-fiber, ceramics and electronics together in a distinctive design.

“Chevrolet’s goal with the new ZR1 is to show what an American supercar can deliver, at a price that trumps exotics that cost two, three or four times as much – and does so with exceptional driveability,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager.

“Preliminary testing shows the ZR1 builds on the highly respected Corvette Z06 in every performance category, from acceleration and braking, to cornering grip and top speed,” said Peper. “It all boils down to the power-to-weight ratio and the ZR1’s is exceptional – better than the Porsche 911 GT2, the Ferrari 599 and even the Lamborghini LP640. In fact, the ZR1 is expected to be the first production Corvette to achieve a top speed of at least 200 mph.”

Supercharged LS9 Engine

The new LS9 6.2L small-block engine is the power plant the supports the ZR1’s performance capability. The enabler of the LS9’s performance and refinement is a large, positive-displacement Roots-type supercharger with a new, four-lobe rotor design. It is augmented with an integrated charge cooling system that reduces inlet air temperature for maximum performance.

A sixth-generation supercharger developed by Eaton helps the LS9 make big power and torque at lower rpm and carries it in a wide arc to 6,600 rpm, as it pushes enough air to help the engine maintain power through the upper levels of the rpm band – the area where supercharged performance tends to diminish. Heavy-duty and lightweight reciprocating components enable the engine’s confident high-rpm performance.

The LS9 engine is backed by a new, stronger six-speed manual transmission and a twin-disc clutch that provide exceptional clamping power, while maintaining an easy clutch effort. ZR1-specific gearing in the transmission provides a steep first-gear ratio that helps launch the car, and top speed is achieved in sixth gear – a change from the fifth-gear top-speed run-outs in the manual-transmission Corvette and Corvette Z06.

Ride and Handling

The ZR1 is built on the same aluminum-intensive chassis as the Corvette Z06 and features similar independent SLA front and rear suspensions, with aluminum upper and lower control arms. Where the ZR1 differs is the suspension tuning, which was optimized for the car’s steamroller-wide front and rear tires.

Magnetic Selective Ride Control is standard and tuned specifically for the ZR1. The system’s ability to deliver a compliant ride with nearly instantaneous damping adjustments enabled engineers to develop a surprisingly supple ride quality in a supercar that still delivers cornering grip of more than 1g.

Exclusive Exterior

The ZR1 is instantly recognizable, with perhaps the most identifiable feature a raised, all-carbon-fiber hood that incorporates a clear, polycarbonate window. The window provides a view of the top of the engine’s intercooler, with the legend “LS9 SUPERCHARGED” embossed on the left and right sides, and an engine cover with the Corvette crossed flags logo debossed at the front.

The underside of the hood has an exposed carbon-fiber-weave. Exposed carbon-fiber is used on the roof, roof bow, rocker molding and front splitter. These exterior components are protected by a specially developed glossy, UV-resistant clear coat that resists yellowing and wear.

Widened, carbon-fiber front fenders with specific, dual lower vents, and a full-width, body-color rear spoiler incorporating the center high-mounted stop lamp, are also unique to the ZR1. All of the exterior features of the car were developed to enhance high-speed stability and driver control.

Interior Details

The ZR1’s interior builds on the brand’s dual-cockpit heritage, with high-quality materials, craftsmanship and functionality that support the premium-quality experience promised by the car’s performance. The “base” ZR1 (RPO 1LZ) comes with accoutrements based on the Z06, including lightweight seats and lightweight content. The uplevel interior package includes unique, power-adjustable and leather-trimmed sport seats (embroidered with the ZR1 logo); custom, leather-wrapped interior available in four colors; navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity and more. Base Price: 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

The Bugatti Veyron EB 16.4 “Pur Sang” Edition

2008-09-24T09:12:00.000-07:00

Visitors to the Atelier in Molsheim are always intrigued to see the Bugatti Veyron’s high-tech components being meticulously assembled into an automotive work of art. Watching the car coming together, coupled with an admiration for the technical beauty of its structure, gave the designers the idea of finishing the car in its pure material configuration – meaning no color coating. The result is the EB 16.4. Veyron “Pur Sang”, a two-tone study of pure materialness showing the car’s true essentials: carbon and aluminum.

The carbon monocoque holds the engine plus the passenger cell, while the polished aluminum panelling is enhanced by reflections in the sculpted bodywork. Interestingly, the rawness of the materials even more strongly highlights the dual character of this car: performance power coupled with cruising comfort, structure and body, dark and light.

A closer look at the details reveals the technical logic behind this stylistic appearance. The sophisticated monocoque contains all the core structural components, including the W16 engine, the passenger cell, the crash box and the linkages to the wheels. It is this purpose-driven fundament that is visible as the center of the car in clear-coated carbon fiber.

Equally consistent is the use of the aluminum paneling. This lends shape and a unique body sculpture to the car, covering the wheels in a muscular and powerful expression by way of elaborately shaped fenders. Highly polished, these perfectly tensioned shapes strongly visualize the fascinating surface reflections that define every Veyron.

The balanced graphic appearance is also visible when looking down onto the car from above. These qualities take on a distinct appearance – almost like that found in a Mondrian painting. As its pur sang label suggests, this individualized customer car shares the same kind of DNA as that of classic cars from the Bugatti past: the “Atalante”, the Type 55, the Type 41 “Royal” all had an unmistakable and characteristic graphic signature. It is this precise division of performance components and body paneling – in this form – that makes the EB 16.4. Veyron “Pur Sang” unique in the supercar world.

Base Price: 2008 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Pur Sang Edition Approx $1,500,000

BMW : M-inspired Performance for the 1-Series

2008-09-24T09:04:00.000-07:00

Since its introduction in 1966, the BMW 2002 has been at the core of BMW’s philosophy. By combining exhilarating rear-wheel-drive performance, agile handling, seating for four and powerful value, the 2002 created a new niche—the sport sedan—that is still a BMW stronghold today. The understated appearance never belied its capabilities but those who knew performance, knew the 2002. In 2008, BMW will introduce a modern and authentic performance coupe that will be the next BMW legend—the 135i Coupe.

The 135i is briskly motivated by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower and an incredible 300 lb-ft of torque from as low as 1,400 rpm. With its direct piezo gasoline injectors, twin low-mass turbochargers and air-to-air intercooling, optimum performance and economy is achieved with no loss in engine response. For the 135i Coupe, acceleration from 0-62 mph is 5.3 seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph.

M-inspired Performance for the 135i Coupe

The standard M Sports Package for the 135i Coupe offers more performance and a striking look. Features of the M Sports Package include M Sports Suspension for higher traction and reduced body roll, 18-inch wheels with performance tires, M logo doorsill trims, an M leather sport steering wheel and an M logo footrest for the driver’s left foot. The leather appointments on the gearshift lever and handbrake, as well as the handbrake handle are finished in high-quality soft leather. The roof lining on the M Sports Package comes in Anthracite, and the interior features offered in this package are rounded off by Glacier Silver aluminum interior trim that highlights the sporting character of the cockpit. The M Sports Suspension also comes with a high-performance brake system incorporating six-piston fixed calipers on the front axle and two-piston fixed calipers at the rear.

The particularly sports-minded driver of the BMW 135i Coupe will also be happy to know that aesthetic dynamics have also been adjusted accordingly for his or her tastes, thanks the included M Aerodynamics Package. The M Aerodynamics Package includes specially-designed front and rear bumpers as well as special rocker sills and foglamps. Together, they give the 135i Coupe a signature BMW M look in a tasteful yet distinctive manner.

The new BMW 135i Coupe comes not only with a sports suspension, but also with appropriate modifications of the ASC and DSC driving stability systems, taking the particularly sporting character of the car into account. And as a further point the top model in the range has an even more spontaneous control map for the gas pedal.

Luxurious Interior

The innovative interior design incorporates high-quality and sophisticated trim elements with luxurious upholstery and color choices. The control console for the entertainment and air conditioning functions is integrated smoothly and harmoniously into the dashboard through its soft radii and flowing surfaces. The Controller featured in the optional iDrive control system is integrated to the center console, again following BMW’s characteristic philosophy.

Driving Dynamic Programs

The BMW 1 Series Coupe benefits from BMW’s industry-leading brake and stability control systems. Standard ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) and ASC (Automatic Stability Control) prevent the drive wheels from spinning while CBC (Cornering Brake Control) stabilizes the car whenever necessary during application of the brakes in a bend.

All of these functions are part of the car’s DSC Dynamic Stability Control that can apply the brakes to each individual wheel in particularly demanding situations and by reducing engine power, it can prevent the rear end of the car from swerving around (oversteer) or the front of the car from “pushing” out of a bend (understeer).

When networked with the optional Active Steering, DSC can is also prevent the car from swerving out of control on slippery surfaces by countersteering with the appropriate amount to allow the driver to regain control.

To ensure enhanced traction when the DSC is completely switched off, a software-controlled locking function slows down the drive wheels when spinning in an appropriate, properly controlled process. This, in turn, enhances the car’s traction without any negative effects on its steering behavior.
Base Price: 2008 BMW 135i Coupe

Audi Reveals the R8: Le Mans Racer for the Street

2008-09-24T09:01:00.001-07:00

The Audi R8, into which Audi has incorporated the name and the genes of the five-time Le Mans winner, is a spectacular sports car. Three years after the unveiling of the Audi Le Mans quattro concept car, the production version will be making its debut at the Paris Motor Show in the guise of the new Audi R8 mid-engined sports model. It is a fascinating driving machine and the sporty pinnacle of the Audi brand. The mid-mounted 420 bhp V8 FSI engine, quattro permanent four-wheel drive and Audi Space Frame aluminum body form the basis for truly outstanding driving dynamics. The Audi R8 will be available to order from 28 September 2006; first deliveries will be made in the first half of 2007.

As the first Audi mid-engined sports car, the Audi R8 combines Audi's experience gained from numerous motorsport triumphs with groundbreaking design and the acknowledged technological expertise of the brand. This expertise has led to the slogan 'Vorsprung durch Technik' becoming a byword for leading-edge technology both on the race track and on the road.

Audi R8's Exterior

Even at first glance, the caliber of the Audi R8 is plain to see. The car sits broad and squat on the road, the strongly accentuated rear end appearing to flex its muscles like a sprinter ready for the off.

The characteristic proportions of the vehicle are dictated by the location of the engine behind the cockpit. This layout is a typical feature of race cars. One of the most striking examples of this design – and as such one of the legitimate antecedents of the Audi R8 – was, and still is, the Auto Union Type C Grand Prix car. The central position of the engine is above all a boon to driving dynamics, as it allows for a weight distribution, as on the R8, of 44 percent to the front and 56 percent to the rear.

The car's body is highly compact in appearance. The front end and the gently curved roof arc are drawn in a sweeping line; a line which immediately marks the two-seater out as an Audi.

The side view also reveals familiar contours. The dynamic line above the wheel arches and the shoulder line interlink the front end, side and rear, imbue the doors and the transition to the side air vent with a strong presence, and even more emphatically highlight the typical Audi rounded wheel housings accommodating the big wheels.

The cabin of the Audi R8 is pushed far forward – a typical feature of a mid-engined sports car, and as such a visual cue linking it to the race car of the same name. Behind the cabin, positioned in front of the rear axle, is the V8 FSI engine, a sculptured piece of engineering visible both through the large, shield-shaped rear window and from inside the car.

The full aluminum body is constructed in the Audi Space Frame (ASF) design. Its perfect synthesis of minimal weight and maximum rigidity provides the ideal foundation for optimum driving dynamics, as well as delivering an outstanding power-to-weight ratio of just 8.18 pounds per bhp.

The Interior

The sporty interior is dominated by a totally driver-oriented cockpit architecture, integrating the driver between the dashboard and the high centre console. The instrument panel above the console is angled slightly towards the driver. The flat-bottomed steering wheel is a typical feature of the sportiest Audi models, and also enables comfortable sports car entry and exit.

Form follows function: this design principle is implemented throughout the R8. Alongside the driver-oriented architecture, also reflected in the styling of the side window sills, the choice of materials also makes for a highly functional look and feel. Looking around when in the driving seat makes one thing clear: just like in the R8 race car, the styling and placement of all the elements in the cockpit of this driving machine is focused on the essentials. The center point of everything is the driver.

The Drivetrain

Turbine-like power up to the highest rev ranges, a high maximum torque, all combined with a fascinating sound, are the characteristics of a perfect sports car engine. An engine that is fascinating both in terms of its enormous power potential and its suitability for everyday use.

In the high-revving 420 bhp eight-cylinder engine, the evolution of FSI petrol direct injection technology has reached a new high. This technology has also enjoyed many triumphs in the Audi R8 race car.

The figures illustrate the outstanding potential of the eight-cylinder unit. At 7,800 rpm the 4.2-liter engine delivers 420 bhp of power output. Peak torque is 317 lb-ft from 4,500 to 6,000 rpm. And no less than 90 per cent of this maximum torque is maintained consistently throughout a wide engine speed range from 3,500 all the way to 7,600 rpm. As a result of these qualities, the eight-cylinder power unit provides maximum thrust in virtually any driving situation.

The performance figures are equally impressive: the R8 accelerates from a standstill to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 187 mph.

Two transmissions are available: a manual 6-speed gearbox or optionally the Audi R tronic sequential-shift gearbox. Here, too, the influence of the motorsport world is clearly evident, with a joystick gear-shift on the centre console and, most especially, the paddles mounted on the steering wheel, which are a long-established ergonomic feature in motorsport. The best illustration of this is once again the Le Mans winning Audi R8, which also enables the driver to change gear on the steering wheel.

The Audi R8 is being built on a small-lot production line in a specially constructed new block at the Audi plant in Neckarsulm, Germany.

Base Price: 2008 Audi R8 - $109,000

Aston Martin Introduces the Ultimate Luxury Sports Car – the DBS

2008-09-24T08:58:00.000-07:00

Aston Martin will unveil one of the most eagerly anticipated cars of the year when the new DBS is revealed at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on August 16th, where the company takes a starring role as the featured marque.

Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ulrich Bez, said: “The DBS is the ultimate expression of Aston Martin’s engineering and technical ability. It offers pure performance without compromise.

“The DBS delivers the complete driving experience and bridges the gap between our road and track cars – the DB9 and DBR9.”

Equally at home on a twisting mountain circuit as on the open road, the DBS is a true thoroughbred. The Aston Martin DBS is a 6.0-liter V12 powered, race-bred, two-seater shaped by the aerodynamic demands of high performance, with an exquisite interior that marries beautifully hand-finished materials with the very latest in performance technology.

A combination of elegant design, innovative manufacturing processes, race-derived materials and components and Aston Martin’s unrivalled hand-build expertise makes the DBS a luxury sports car without equal. Every line, crease and curve conveys the enormous potential of the DBS, a seductive blend of refinement and raw power, provided by the hand-built V12 producing 510 bhp, a top speed of 191 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 4.1 seconds.

Performance

The need for high-performance stability, handling ability and low kerb weight defined the DBS’s form and construction. Accordingly, the DBS becomes the first production Aston Martin to make extensive use of ultra-light carbon-fiber body panels. High levels of performance and control are delivered by the combination of inherent light weight, near-perfect weight distribution, a supremely powerful and flexible V12 engine, and a performance-honed six-speed transmission, together with new carbon ceramic brakes and an adaptive damper controlled suspension system.

At the heart of the DBS is a 6.0-liter V12 engine. As with all current Aston Martins, it is hand-assembled at Aston Martin’s dedicated engine facility in Cologne, Germany. The classic 6.0-liter V12 features a number of power-increasing enhancements. These include a ‘by-pass’ engine air intake port that opens above 5500 rpm to allow more air into the engine, and re-profiled air inlet ports that further improve airflow into the combustion chamber. Combined with a compression ratio of 10.9:1, the result of these enhancements is prodigious power and torque: the DBS delivers 510 bhp at 6500 rpm. The 3.71:1 final-drive ratio ensures that the additional power is usable, enhancing in-gear acceleration in particular.

Design

The DBS is manufactured using the finest materials, with a combination of hand-finishing and pioneering high-technology processes. From the exceptional quality of the design and finish to the advanced production techniques employed to save weight and create strength, the DBS is both a technological masterpiece and a powerful visual and tactile experience, inside and out.

The external detailing reflects the power and dynamic abilities of the DBS, with revised inlets and enlarged grilles that deliver more air into the engine and increase its cooling capacity. Subtle design details include a new five-bar design for the polished alloy main grille, as well as two additional vents in the enlarged power bulge on the carbon-fiber bonnet. These vents are entirely functional, improving engine performance and efficiency, yet also communicating the increased power output of the uprated V12 engine.

The DBS’s aerodynamic enhancements are shaped by Aston Martin’s racing experience. A carbon-fiber splitter and a new front bumper design help channel airflow around the car’s wider bodywork. The aerodynamics team worked hand in hand with the modeling team to ensure that the forms and surfaces of DBS were sculpted for inherent stability at high speeds.

Interior

The interior of the DBS represents the epitome of Aston Martin’s commitment to using materials honestly, without disguise or embellishment. Lightweight materials are used throughout to save weight; door pulls are made from carbon-fiber, for example, and the carpet has been woven with lighter fibers to save weight. Special semi-aniline leather is used throughout the cabin, saving weight as well as giving a soft feel and distinctive aroma.

As an option the DBS may be equipped with specially developed lightweight seats (outside North America). These feature a carbon-fiber and Kevlar composite structure and are manufactured by a supplier to the motorsport and aviation industries before being returned to Aston Martin’s Gaydon factory for hand-trimming. The structure is created by sandwiching a layer of Kevlar between two layers of carbon-fiber with the outer finish left exposed on the seat backs, lacquered to create a durable and attractive finish.

The start sequence of the DBS is augmented by an all-new centre console design with a cast metal surround, crisp typography and new graphics. The new console has a traditional dial-face clock at the centre, flanked by two rotary controls for the heating and air-conditioning system, fashioned from solid, turned aluminum.

Deliveries of the DBS are expected to commence during quarter one 2008, with prices to be confirmed at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

Base Price: 2008 Aston Martin DBS - $265,000

Repainting a classic car

2008-09-24T08:51:00.000-07:00

Cuba Cuban Spanish Speaking Countries Latin America Havana Habana Ciudad de la Habana Horizontal Transportation Vintage Car Old Car Classic American Cars Classic Cars Daily Life Cleaning Painting Family Green Car Rusty Street Talking Old American Cars Classic Automobiles Vintage Autos Yank Tanks Máquinas Maquinas Images Pictures Pics Photographs Fotos Stock Photos

Havana, Cuba - A group of Cubans work in the streets to repaint .
a classic American car.
Classic American cars are seen throughout Cuba,
a throwback to the days before the embargo.
Before the Cuban revolution, there was a strong US presence on the island - both culturally and commercially.
After the revolution, trade ceased and the influx of cars stopped.
With a limited supply of new cars due to embargoes and limited buying power due to the economic situation under communism,
Cubans have held onto the vintage automobiles by necessity for many decades.
As a result, Cuba is in the unique position that pre-1959 cars are the standard,
rather than an exception, although this is changing.
These cars are generally referred to as yank tanks or maquinas and often used as taxis

A red classic car sits in Havana

2008-09-24T08:45:00.001-07:00

Latin America Caribbean Classic American Cars Classic Cars Old Car Habana Havana La Habana Cuba Antique Car Vintage Car Ciudad de la Habana Cuban Classic Automobiles Vintage Autos Yank Tanks Máquinas Maquinas Horizontal Images Pictures Pics Photographs Fotos Stock Photos

Havana, Cuba - A shiny red classic American car with a white top sits parked in Havana.

Classic American cars are seen throughout Cuba, a throwback to the days before the embargo.
Before the Cuban revolution, there was a strong US presence on the island - both culturally and commercially.
After the revolution, trade ceased and the influx of cars stopped.
With a limited supply of new cars due to embargoes and limited buying power due to the economic situation under communism,
Cubans have held onto the vintage automobiles by necessity for many decades.
As a result, Cuba is in the unique position that pre-1959 cars are the standard, rather than an exception,
although that is changing. These cars are generally referred to as yank tanks or maquinas and often used as taxis

Beautiful classic cars on display at the prestigious RM Auction in Scottsdale, Arizona

2008-09-24T08:26:00.000-07:00

Classic Car, Custom Car and Street Rod part and service providers,classic car electric car, electric vehicle, visit car, China electric car, ... More Related

UK Directory for Classic Car: Automotive - Products and Services

Repainting a classic car · A classic American car

MONOSOK DAN SWING-ARM

2008-09-18T07:17:00.002-07:00

Langsung pelototi permukaan lengan ayun, awas jangan beli swing-arm bekas benturan keras yang biasanya terjadi akibat kecelakaan. “Selain mengubah kelurusan, juga berpengaruh terhadap kekuatan,” jelas Budi Uddin.

Untuk mendeteksi, Budi menyarankan pake cara ‘dikeker’ antara as lengan ayun dengan as roda. Kalau nggak lurus, berarti sudah cacat. "Jika rumah laher yang kebesaran bisa dibikin bos baru agar klop dengan as lengan ayun," sambung Agus Djanuar.

Termasuk kondisi as-nya. “Kalau sudah retak, juga bahaya, mending minta tukar,” jelas Onnes, modifikator Reyspeedshop Motorcycle Bandung

Untuk monosok, Budi lebih tegas karena usia suspensi sejak moge dipakai hingga dipretelin jadi limbah cukup panjang. Makanya perlu pertimbangan. “Lebih dari 5 tahun, mending jangan,” tegasnya.

Asumsinya, fungsi sil sudah tidak berperan maksimal dan rentan pada kebocoran, kelihatan di badan sok kok. Termasuk waspada terhadap monosok yang sudah disuntik, cirinya ada baut di badan sok pertanda ada lubang baru untuk nyuntik oli sok.

Tingalkan cara lama prosedur ganti oli kendaraan kesayangan anda

2008-09-18T07:17:00.001-07:00

Jangan main tuang dan langsung geber setelah ganti oli.
Patuhi ganti pelumas sesuai standar tata cara penggantian yang
sebetulnya belum banyak diketahui mekanik bengkel umum. Malah, ada lho
mekanik bengkel resmi yang masih belum paham betul.

Paling sederhana ngeluarin oli. “Sebaiknya pas mesin masih panas. Oli lebih encer. Gram dari gesekan antar komponen bisa ikut larut saat oli dikeluarkan,” beber Riza, Claim Analys Bengkel Reyspeddshop, Spesialis Mekanik RSS Bandung

Tapi jangan pas mesin lagi panas betul. Itu sih ngerusak motor. Kan kondisi panas bikin metal memuai. Jika baut oli dipaksa dibuka, rawan slek. Kalau enggak baut yang rusak, bisa juga drat atau ulir dudukan.

Kelar oli dikeluarkan, ada cara lain yang juga biasa dipakai mekanik. Adalah menyemprot lubang masuk oli pakai angin kompresor (gbr. 1)
supaya sisa-sisa oli di dalam girboks turun. Tapi, sebaiknya cara
seperti ini dikurangi. Lantaran, udara dari kompresor mengandung air.
Berisiko timbulkan karat di mesin. “Sebaiknya sih diselah aja (gbr. 2). Tiga sampai 5 kali supaya sisa oli turun,” jelas Riza.

Tinggal isi oli baru. Setelah diisi, boleh dan bisa dicek ulang. Penting untuk
menandai kondisi pelumasan di mesin bisa bekerja secara normal atau ada
masalah.

Buka tutup klep masuk atau valve in. Hidupkan mesin di kondisi idle
atau langsam. Terus, buka gas setengah. “Kalau oli menyembur dari klep
masuk, berarti sirkulasi pelicin di mesin bagus,” terang Riza dari Reyspeedshop yang berada
di kawasan Bandung Utara

Modifikasi honda tiger - sesi sock breaker upsite down Limbah moge

2008-09-18T07:17:00.000-07:00

dikutip dari www.motorplus-online.com

Arah modif boleh terus berganti, tapi aplikasi kaki-kaki limbah moge nggak ada matinya. Sebut saja upside down eks Aprilia RS125 yang laris manis pasang di Tiger atau bebek. Katanya nggak keren kalau belum pasang ajrutan terbolak ini.

Tapi, perlu dipilih cermat. Maklum kadang terselip barang yang sudah tak layak pakai tapi masih dijual. Sah-sah saja rada cerewet ke penjual limbah soal kondisi barang. "Cari yang belum direkondisi karena lebih terjamin kualitasnya," ujar Agus Djanuar from Kalika Design di Jl. Pasir Muncang, belakang SD 3 Pasir Muncang, Purwokerto.

Ayo periksa komponen kaki-kaki limbah satu persatu.

Kawasaki Ninja 250cc Idaman Sport Biker Indonesia Sejati With auto insurance

2008-09-09T08:08:00.000-07:00

Hari Gini Dibawah 200cc dah ngakjaman kaliye.... heu heu heu ini dya yang di tunggupara kau lelaki sejati udah gak jaman Motor bebek Apalagi Tubder 125 cc body cowok tapimental bebek heu heu heu ......... tp berapa harganya ya dah termasuk auto insurance blm ya he he he jangan takut bisa credit di bank atau ke leasing langsung

Menyambung artikel saya sebelumnya yang berjudul Ninja 250R v.s Comet GT250R Saya mendapat Informasi dari 2fiddy.com bahwa Di USA beredar dengan Nama V2S-250R atau yang lebih dikenal dengan nama UM 250R . Motor ini speknya mirip dengan Comet 250R dan sepertinya parts motor ini di impor dari korea. he he he jadi Inget Toyota bikin Brand Lexus buat nerobos USA

berikut spesifikasinya :

sumber gambar & spek : http://www.umamerica.com

FAKTA ini ADALAH NINJA lochhhhhooooo

Di sirkuit willow springs california pada galaran Ninja Cup, ada sesi superstok Ninja 250R. Hasil dari balapan ini dapat menjadi tolok ukur performa Ninja 250R sebenarnya di sirkuit balap. FYI seluruh Ninja 250R pada balapan ini diinformasikan telah menggunakan ban racing battlax BT 090, knalpot racing full system (blm dapet data merk knalpot yang dipakai) dan fairing khusus Balap.

Tinggal pilih mau yang mana hayooooooo hoooo

Gambar diatas adalah hasil iiseng-iseng saya dengan menggunakan Photoshop, bermodalkan 2 gambar yang sudah ada dan digabungkan melalui proses cropping. Pada Fairing samping ada lambang Screamer, teknologi yang sedang di coba para teknisi motoGP kawasaki untuk mengembangkan performa kuda besi tunggangan John Hopkins dan Anthony West. Sedangkan Gambar-gambar olah digital berikut ini saya dapatkan dari forum kawi, dan sempat di posting oleh bro AKasmy di Forum Cyberist Ninja 250R Indonesia. Garis desainnya cukup inovatif dan segar. Mudah-mudahan berguna bagi brothers sekalian

Desain Knalpot Masa Depan, Berisik Tidak Dilirik Loh ...

2008-09-09T08:07:00.000-07:00

dikutip dari www.motorplus-online.com

Desain Knalpot Masa Depan
Berisik Tidak Dilirik

Isu razia emisi suara knalpot di Bandung, konon kabarnya berdampak buruk pada produsen dan penjual knalpot racing. Pasar terus merosot memprihatinkan. Bukti bahwa knalpot berisik sudah tidak lagi dilirik. “Gila! Turun hampir 70%,” teriak Asep Hendro juragan knalpot AHRS dari markasnya di Perumahan Bumi Ampel, Depok.

Tentu saja mesti disikapi cepat oleh pembuat knalpot racing masal. Jika cuek, jualan pasti terus menurun. Perlu strategi baru untuk meredam susutnya penjualan. Utamanya soal suara yang berpengaruh dengan desain knalpot. Seperti sudah dilakukan beberapa produsen knalpot tertentu juga perancang baru.

Ambil contoh knalpot YY Pang atau TDR Racing yang dirancang tetap racing (gbr. 1). Guna menghilangkan suara sangar dan berisik, moncong knalpot dilengkapi penutup mirip wajan yang tengahnya berlubang. “Desain ini diklaim bersuara halus dan sedikit ngebas. Kalau suara ingin besar, tutupnya yang diikat baut tinggal dilepas,” ujar Johnny Lipurnomo, penjual knalpot model itu dari tokonya Custom World di Kelapa Gading, Jakarta Utara.

Hal sama dilakukan Mahmud alias Unyil. Mekanik Pinguin Motorsport ini bahkan sudah lama merancang knalpot macam itu, demi memenuhi keinginan konsumen. Cuma Unyil tak memanfaatkan penutup moncong knalpot mirip wajan. Melainkan dari potongan pipa disusun bertingkat yang diameternya lebih kecil dari saringan silincer (gbr. 2).

“Cara pasangnya sama, tetap andalkan baut sebagai pengikat. Tapi bentuk seperti itu punya keuntungan suara tidak menggelegar dan enggak menghambat aliran gas buang,” ujar warga Jl. Mampang Prapatan XII, Jakarta Selatan. Dia sedang merancang peredam pakai katup di perut knalpot namun didukung pegas kualitas pilihan.

Bicara peredam model katup, Vivo Sanivo mekanik asal Bandung bahkan sudah merancang pakai katup buka-tutup di perut knalpot. Tentu lewat bantuan per yang ditarik melalui kabel dan switch yang terpasang di setang (gbr. 3). Mirip EXUP (Exhaust Ultimate Power Valve) di Yamaha FZ750.

“Sistem ini dinilai lebih fleksibel, karena katupnya bisa dibuat sesuai ukuran knalpot. Asyiknya lagi, bisa diaplikasi motor 2-tak dan 4-tak,” ungkap builder yang bermarkas di Ternate 11, Bandung ini.

Memang saatnya berinovasi.

HONDA CHAMPIONSHIP

2008-09-09T08:05:00.000-07:00

Pertarungan Pembalap di Kaki Gunung Lawu

Seri 1 – “20Million Honda Racing Championship”

Mengulang sukses pelaksanaan Honda Racing Championship 2006 (HRC), PT Astra Honda Motor (AHM) kembali menggelar kejuaraan balap motor one-make-race yang diberi nama “20 Million Honda Racing Championship 2007″. Seri pertama dilaksanakan pada Sabtu (17/03) hingga Minggu (18/03) mengambil lokasi kaki Gunung Lawu, Alun-alun kabupaten Karanganyar.

Rimbunnya pepohonan di kawasan alun-alun Karanganyar ternyata tak mampu memberikan kesejukkan bagi pengunjungnya. Setidaknya itulah yang tersirat dalam pelaksanaan seri pertama ”20Million Honda Racing Championship” yang merupakan gelaran balap bergengsi dari PT Astra Honda Motor (AHM). Pertarungan pembalap di Kaki Gunung Lawu ini sangat ketat masing-masing tim pembalap Honda sudah mulai terasa sejak Sabtu (17/03) saat session latihan resmi untuk mencari pole position.

Kejuaraan berseri ”20Million Honda Racing Championship” ini mempertandingkan 7 kelas antara lain: kelas Honda 110cc Standard, Honda110cc Tune up Pemula, Honda 110cc Tune up Seeded, Honda 125 cc Standard Pemula, Honda 125cc Tune up Pemula, Honda 125cc Tune up Seeded dan Honda 100cc Standard Lokal. Kejuaraaan ini mendapat dukungan sponsor dari PT Denso Sales Indonesia (Produsen busi), PT Federal International Finance (Perusahaan pembiayaan kredit resmi sepedamotor Honda), PT Federal Karyatama (Produsen Federal Oil), PT Showa Indonesia Manufacturing (Produsen Shock Absorber), PT SKF Indonesia (Produsen Bearing), PT Summit Oto Finance (Perusahaan pembiayaan kredit sepeda motor), PT Surya Raya Rubberindo Industries (Produsen Ban Khusus balap motor Indonesia) dan PT Yutaka Manufacturing Indonesia (Produsen Rem Cakram).

Acara yang dibuka resmi pada hari Minggu (18/03) oleh Johanes Hermawan selaku Marketing Director AHM didampingi para Muspida dan Maindealer serta undangan lainnya. Pembukaan acara juga dimeriahkan dengan kesenian Musik Lesung, Tarian Gamyong, grup modern dance, dan Reog Ponorogo serta atraksi Helikopter Mini (red: dijalankan remote control) membawa bendera raksasa berlogo ”20Million Honda Racing Championship” melayang diatas sirkuit.

Sungguh luar biasa animo penonton yang datang tanpa dipungut biaya tiket ini. Sejak pagi, aliran penonton tak henti hingga menjelang sore. Diperkirakan sekitar 10 ribu orang memadati kawasan Alun-alun Karanganyar ini. Tak hanya kalangan pehobi road race dan otomotif. Untuk anggota keluarga pun dapat menikmati acara yang disuguhkan. Mulai dari live show Serieus Band, pemeriksaan emisi gas buang motor gratis, lomba mewarnai buat anak-anak, pijat gratis hingga 2 set perangkat simulasi Honda Riding Trainer yang bisa dijajal semua pengunjung. Bahkan display motor modifikasi dan stand khusus klub motor Honda juga ada.

“Event roadrace Honda yang kami selenggarakan ini merupakan salah satu bentuk kegiatan promosi berkaitan dengan akan dicapainya prestasi produksi ke 20 juta unit produksi sepedamotor Honda di Indonesia. Selain itu, ajang ini juga merupakan sarana bertemunya konsumen setia Honda. Mereka dapat menyaksikan stand produk-produk terbaru Honda, mengikuti Safety Riding, mendapatkan informasi tentang jaringan dan pelayanan, membeli suku-cadang asli Honda, menyaksikan lomba para club Honda dan pangung hiburan yang dimeriahkan oleh Band Serius”, demikian disampaikan oleh J. Hermawan.

Tumpah Ruah…!! Kemeriahan ”20Million Honda Racing Championship” di Alun-alun Karanganyar. Dihadiri lebih dari 10.000 pengunjung tak bergeming menyaksikan alunan musik dari band serius walaupun harus diguyur hujan yang cukup deras

Dalam kelas paling bergengsi Honda bebek 125cc tune-up seeded, pembalap asal Surakarta Agus “Bledug” Setiawan (Adiputra Utama) mampu menaklukan saingan lainnya, disusul oleh Bima Octavianus asal Semarang (JTHRC Panca Arta Federal Oil) diposisi kedua diikuti oleh Agung Purnama Alam asal Bandung (IRC DAM BRT Indoparts) ditempat ketiga.

Suksesnya pelaksanaan seri pertama ini tak lepas dari kerjasama kepanitiaan yang baik antara PT Astra Honda Motor dengan PT Astra International (HSO Semarang) serta didukung oleh sejumlah perusahaan mitra sponsor event. Diharapkan dengan kegiatan semacam ini, masyarakat akan mengetahui bahwa produksi sepedamotor Honda akan mencapai 20.000.000 unit ditahun 2007 (sejak 1971) dimana akan semakin menjadikan PT Astra Honda Motor sebagai satu-satunya produsen & distributor sepedamotor terbesar di Indonesia saat ini. Kesetiaan konsumen terhadap produk Honda-lah yang menjadikan prestasi produksi ini bisa di ukir oleh PT Astra Honda Motor. Hal ini tentunya sejalan dengan misi & visi AHM yang ingin menyediakan kendaraan roda dua yang irit bahan bakar, ramah lingkungan, mesin tangguh, kualitas terjamin, jaringan & pelayanan yang bagus serta harga yang terjangkau bagi masyarakat Indonesia.

JEPANG LEBIH MEMILIH CINA DIBANDING INA

2008-09-09T08:04:00.000-07:00

Industri Otomotif Jepang Lebih Memilih Cina Ketimbang Indonesia

KETAKUTAN akan Cina kini bukan lagi basa-basi. Negeri Tirai Bambu ini bukan hanya negara raksasa, tetapi negeri dengan pasar yang luar biasa besar. Paling tidak, pasar dengan satu milyar orang. Cina juga merupakan negara manufaktur yang tangguh dengan dukungan bahan baku yang melimpah. Cina juga merupakan negara yang memiliki sumber daya yang beragam dengan tingkat komando politik maupun pemerintahan yang jelas.

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Salah satu yang ngotot untuk melakukan investasi di Cina adalah produsen otomotif Jepang. Para raksasa otomotif yang selama ini memiliki hubungan historis baik dengan para pedagang mobil di Indonesia, yakni para agen tunggal pemegang merek (ATPM), justru tidak akan mengembangkan industrinya di Indonesia. Secara diplomatis mereka mengatakan, soal pengembangan otomotif di Indonesia diserahkan kepada pimpinan yang ada di perusahaan ATPM di Indonesia, meski pengusaha Jepang dalam posisi mayoritas.

Konsentrasi mereka justru di Cina. Di negeri satu milyar orang itu, mereka akan membangun pabrik baru. Kelas industri yang akan dikembangkan bukan cuma menjahit seperti di Indonesia, tetapi membangun sebuah industri. Bagi mereka, Indonesia meski populasinya besar, tetapi pasarnya kecil. Sementara di Cina adalah pasar yang baru tumbuh dan volumenya tetap besar. Dengan demikian, arah pengembangannya pun menjadi efisien sehingga layak untuk dibangun sebuah industri, bukan perakitan. Sikap itu ditunjukkan oleh para petinggi otomotif Jepang.

MANAJER Humas Daihatsu Motor Corp Shozo Shimizu mengatakan, saat ini dengan kepemilikan 61,75 persen saham Daihatsu Motor di PT Astra Daihatsu Motor (ADM), Daihatsu berusaha untuk mengembangkan usaha dan bisnisnya lebih baik lagi di Indonesia, terutama mobil mini seperti Zebra 1300 cc. Namun, selain di Indonesia, di Malaysia juga akan dikembangkan.

Bahkan, pabrik Daihatsu yang lebih besar ada di Malaysia dengan kapasitas produksi mencapai 130.000 unit per tahun, sedangkan di Indonesia hanya memiliki kapasitas produksi sekitar 21.000 unit per tahun. Diharapkan, pabrik di Indonesia yang relatif kecil ini bisa dikembangkan lebih besar lagi dalam waktu dekat.

Namun, tambahnya, fokus pengembangan Daihatsu untuk saat ini adalah ke Cina. Pasar di Cina, kata Shimizu, memiliki potensi yang sangat besar di Asia. Produk di Cina ini akan diprioritaskan untuk pasar negara itu sendiri yang diperkirakan memiliki daya serap yang besar. Demikian juga untuk produk yang di Malaysia dan Indonesia, fokusnya adalah untuk pasar lokal, di samping juga mempersiapkan untuk mengisi pasar ekspor dalam rangka kebijakan pasar bebas ASEAN.

“Dengan adanya pasar bebas ASEAN (AFTA), kami bisa melakukan usaha dan produksi serta bisnis di berbagai negara di ASEAN dan Cina sekaligus, tanpa perlu menjadikan satu negara sumber produksi bagi mobil lain yang diproduksi di lain negara. Masing-masing negara punya karakteristik tipe produksi sendiri-sendiri sesuai karakter dan kebutuhan negara yang bersangkutan. Lagi pula, dengan AFTA tentu akan menjadi lebih mudah melakukan jaringan kerja sama satu sama lain bagi beberapa pabrik kami yang ada di Indonesia, Malaysia, dan Cina,” kata Shimizu.

HAL senada juga disampaikan oleh General Manager Humas Toyota Motor Corporation Tetsuo Kitagawa. Menurut Kitagawa, pasar di Indonesia memang besar sekali. “Namun, untuk sementara kami tak akan melakukan tambahan investasi lagi, paling tidak sampai dengan tahun 2005. Akan tetapi, kalau PT Toyota Astra Motor (TAM) yang sebagian besar sahamnya juga dimiliki oleh TMC mau mengembangkan diri, silakan. Namun, untuk pengembangan itu mereka tidak akan mendapat dukungan dana investasi, artinya mereka harus mengembangkan investasinya dengan kekuatan sendiri.”

Khusus untuk di Indonesia, kata Kitagawa, TMC hanya akan memfokuskan diri kepada multi purpose vehicle. Untuk di Thailand, dengan mobil truk atau pick up, kendaraan niaga. Namun, untuk Cina justru mendapat perlakuan lain oleh TMC. Negeri Tirai Bambu ini oleh TMC dianggap sebagai primadona untuk pengembangan usaha. Pertimbangan TMC karena potensi bisnis yang besar di sana.

“Kami akan mengembangkan model compact passenger car. Termasuk pula akan dikembangkan pembuatan sedan mewah dan luxury special sport utility vehicle dan mobil mini. Demikian pula mini bus tampaknya akan berhasil dipasarkan di Cina. Produk otomotif yang dibuat di Cina akan dikonsentrasikan untuk Cina yang mencapai hampir satu milyar manusia,” kata Kitagawa.

Demikian pula di Thailand, Indonesia, dan lain-lainnya, untuk pasar dalam negeri setempat menjadi prioritas. Tentu dengan adanya AFTA, jaringan kerja usaha TMC diharapkan akan semakin baik, efisien, dan menguntungkan bagi pihak Toyota sendiri maupun negara yang menjadi kongsi bisnisnya. Namun, untuk industri pendukungnya tetap akan dikembangkan di Indonesia. Dengan demikian akan memperlancar kegiatan industri secara keseluruhan.

Intinya, ada tiga hal yang sangat penting bagi Indonesia untuk dilakukan agar bisnis otomotif Toyota bisa berkembang. Pertama, harus dilakukan stabilitas politik, kemudian stabilitas kebijaksanaan ekonomi, dan terakhir adalah kebijakan industri. Pengalaman ini masih ada perbedaan satu wilayah dengan wilayah lain, padahal kebijakan sama. Akibatnya, investor bingung, pengusaha pun menjadi linglung.

SUZUKI Motor Corp pun melakukan kebijakan yang sama. Menurut Manager Humas Suzuki Corp Mitsuyasu Tazawa, saat ini Suzuki tengah mengonsentrasikan diri antara lain untuk pembuatan motor Scooter 50 cc yang dibuat dan dipasarkan di Jepang. Kalau melihat jumlah penjualan antara mobil dan motor, ternyata hasil penjualannya hampir sama. Bahkan, kami proyeksikan tahun ini hasil penjualan motor akan lebih besar daripada penjualan mobil. Penjualan motor tahun ini diperkirakan akan mencapai 2,1 juta unit, sedangkan penjualan mobil tahun ini diperkirakan akan mencapai 1,83 juta unit.

Produksi dan penjualan produk Suzuki di Indonesia dipegang PT Indomobil Suzuki Indonesia (ISI) dan sampai saat ini perusahaan mengalami pertumbuhan yang baik. Namun, pihak Suzuki Jepang tetap berkonsentrasi ke Cina. Bagi kantor pusat, Cina menjadi sasaran utama karena potensi pasar di sana sangat luas, khususnya untuk produksi dan penjualan sepeda motor, walaupun harus bersaing ketat dengan merek lain.

“Untuk Indonesia, kami serahkan sepenuhnya kepada ISI untuk pengembangannya dan saya yakin ISI bisa berkembang lebih baik lagi di masa mendatang. Produksi Suzuki Motor tahun lalu dan tahun ini, khususnya sepeda motor, mayoritas justru diperoleh dari penjualan di luar negeri, bukan dari dalam negeri Jepang. Untuk mobil, 52,25 persen produksi dilakukan di Jepang dan sisanya dilakukan di luar Jepang. Tahun lalu mengalami kenaikan 111 persen dibandingkan dengan tahun sebelumnya dan tahun ini diperkirakan mengalami kenaikan 102 persen dibandingkan dengan tahun lalu. Sedangkan produksi motor Suzuki, 75,1 persen di luar Jepang dan sisanya di Jepang. Kenaikan pada tahun ini diperkirakan akan mencapai 127 persen, sementara tahun lalu mencapai 106 persen. Hasil penjualan lainnya dari pembuatan suku cadang, yang tahun lalu mencapai sekitar 91,8 milyar yen, tahun ini diperkirakan akan mencapai 91,9 milyar yen.

Gambaran pintas ini menunjukkan bahwa Indonesia bukan lagi tujuan utama industri otomotif Jepang, paling tidak sampai tahun 2005. Industri otomotif yang kini dikelola oleh para ATPM di Indonesia tak lebih hanya akan bergerak stagnan dan tidak akan ada tambahan investasi baru. Namun, yang paling mungkin adalah, para ATPM tersebut memang akan berkonsentrasi diri sebagai pemasar saja, apakah produk itu diambilkan dari Thailand, Malaysia, atau Cina.

SEPUTAR INFORMASI TENTANG MOTOR

2008-09-09T08:03:00.000-07:00

Yamaha No. 1

Untuk pertama kalinya dalam sejarah penjualan motor Yamaha menjadi yang terdepan di periode penjualan bulan Maret 2007, dengan perbedaan 7.961 unit motor dibanding kompetitor. Yamaha menjadi Penguasa Pasar dan melibas dominasi kompetitor.

Pangsa pasar motor Yamaha berdasarkan data AISI (Asosiasi Industri Sepeda Motor Indonesia) sebanyak 159.035 unit dan market sharenya adalah sebesar 43,7 persen. Sementara penguasa pasar motor selama ini berada di posisi ke dua dengan pangsa pasar 41,5 Persen.

Penjualan terbesar Yamaha berasal dari tipe bebek Vega R dan Mio sebagai pelopor otomatik. Pada bulan Maret kemarin, keduanya menyumbangkan angka penjualan masing-masing 47.054 unit dan 40.854 unit. Kontribusi berikutnya berasal dari Jupiter Z sebanyak 36.015 unit dan Jupiter MX 29.935 unit.

Yamaha menjadi nomor satu setelah bersaing secara ketat dengan kompetitor lain. Di tahun 2005 lalu Yamaha bersaing ketat untuk menduduki peringkat kedua. Ketika tahun 2006 Yamaha sudah bisa mempertahankan posisi menjadi nomor 2 dan memberikan jarak yang semakin jauh dengan kompetitor di posisi ke 3.

Di awal tahun 2007 ini Yamaha kembali membuktikan hasil kerja kerasnya dengan langsung menyodok menjadi posisi Utama.

Terimakasih untuk Yamaha kepada seluruh konsumen Yamaha Indonesia, sehingga Yamaha bisa menjadi nomor 1 di Indonesia.

Selamat untuk Yamaha menjadi nomor 1, Yamaha Semakin di Depan.

Yamaha Mendominasi Motoprix Jakarta

Hampir di semua kelas di Kejuaraan Nasional Motorpix disapu bersih oleh team-team Yamaha
kesuksesan ini sangatlah luar biasa. Mengingat persaingan di Motoprix sangat ketat sekali.
Kompetitorpun berlomba-lomba untuk bisa mematahkan dominasi Yamaha yang sudah berlangsung
beberapa tahun ini.

Dominasi Team Yamaha Pada Motorpix Kemayoran

Dominasi Yamaha yang sulit dipatahkan, mengingat team-team yang bernaung dengan bendera Yamaha
sudah sangat solid dan matang. Mereka pun bersaing secara profesional, sekaligus menunjukkan yang terbaik buat Yamaha. dan yang terbaik bagi Bangsa Indonesia, karena jenjang yang jelas di Yamaha membuat pembalap berlomba-lomba untuk menjadi yang terbaik dan kelak bisa menyusul jejak Doni Tata sebagai duta bangsa Indonesia yang mengharumkan Bangsa ini melalui dunia balap Motor.

Sapu bersih hampir di semua kelas Motorpix

Selamat untuk seluruh team Yamaha Indonesia yang telah menjuarai Kejuaraan Nasional Motoprix di Kemayoran pada tanggal 1 April 2007

Yamaha News

Yamaha Cup Race Seri Perdana, Kemayoran Jakarta

Yamaha Safety Riding Science, agenda utama untuk mengkampanye-kan tertib aman berkendara

Kapten yang turut memeriahkan Yamaha Cup Race seri perdana menghangatkan suasana

Penonton senang dengan tenda yang menaungi mereka, adem

Piala yang jadi kebanggaan pembalap Yamaha

Sang juara dengan masa depan yang terjamin

Double podium Untuk Fiat Yamaha Team di MotoGP Jerez, Spanyol

Valentino Rossi kembali ke Pudium utama setelah memimpin selama 27 Lap di GP SPanyol Minggu 25 Maret 2007. Podium ini adalah podium pertama Rossi di tahun 2007 setelah Sepang Malaysia pada tahun 2006 lalu. Dan ini adalah kemenangan ke 46 Rossi pada era MotoGP 4Tak. Di Jerez pula Colin Edward bergabung dalam sukacita karena bias menempati posisi ke tiga di balapan kali ini.l Edward finish di belakang Dani Pedrosa di hadapan lebih dari 138.000 penonton.

Balapan sendiri berlangsung sangat statis dengan tanpa perlawanan selama 27 lap Valentino Rossi mampu mendominasi Balapan di Jerez ini. Sementara Collin Edwards mampu menjaga posisinya di ketiga.

Valentino Rossi
Position: 1st Time: 45 53.340

“ Prioritas pertama kita hari ini adalah mendapatkan point dan Saya tahu untuk menang Saya harus memacu kendaraan dengan maksimal, tapi hari ini Yamahaku sangat hebat dan saya bisa memenangi balapan hebat ini”

Colin Edwards
Position: 3rd Time: +2.701

“Jumat pagi kita tidak mengira bahwa akan naik ke podium, tetapi ini lah balapan yang terbaik untukku. Saya sangat berterimakasih kepada seluruh team karena mereka telah bekerja tanpa henti dan kita bisa mendapatkan solusi terbaik untuk beberapa masalah di Jerez ini”

SPESIFIKASI MOTOR KAWASAKI NINJA R150

2008-09-09T08:02:00.002-07:00

Kawasaki Ninja

Warna pilihan yang tersedia	Blue, Green, Silver
Harga (On The Road)	Rp. 23.250.000,-
Tipe Mesin	2 Tak, Silinder Tunggal, Crankcase Reed Valve
Diameter x Langkah	59,0 x 54,4 mm
Kopling	Wet-Multi Disk
Gigi transmisi	6 Kecepatan
Pola pergantian gigi	-
Karburator	Keihin PWL 26
Baterai	12V3AH
Busi	NGK BP8ES/ND W 24 ES-U
Volume silinder	148 cc
Perbandingan kompresi	6,9 : 1
Susunan silinder	-
Sistem Starter	Kick dan Elektrik
Sistem Pelumasan	Oil Injection
Kapasitas Minyak Pelumas	1,3 ltr
Bahan Bakar	Premium
Berat kosong	115 kg
Tipe rangka	Tabular, Double Cradle Box
Kapasitas tangki	10 ltr
Jarak sumbu roda	1.325 mm
Jarak terendah ke tanah	155 mm
Roda depan dan belakang	Alluminium Castwheel
Suspensi depan	Telescopic 0 31 mm
Radius belok minimum	-
Torsi maksimum	2,09 KGM / 9.000 RPM
Rem belakang	Twin Pot Disk Brake

SPESIFIKASI MOTOR YAMAHA JUPITER MX NEW

2008-09-09T08:02:00.001-07:00

Yamaha Jupiter MX 135LC CW
Spesifikasi Motor Pilihan Anda

Warna pilihan yang tersedia
Harga (On The Road)	Rp. 14.857.000,-
Tipe Mesin	4 Langkah, SOHC, 4 Klep (Berpendingin Cairan)
Diameter x Langkah	54 x 58,7 mm
Kopling
Gigi transmisi	Tipe ROTARY 4 Kecepatan, dengan kopling manual
Pola pergantian gigi
Karburator	Mikuni VM 22 x 1, Setelan Pilot Screw 1-5/8 putaran keluar
Baterai	GM5Z - 3B / YB 5L-B 12 Volt 5,0 Ah
Busi	NGK CPR 8 EA-9 / DENSO U 24 EPR-9
Volume silinder	135 cc
Perbandingan kompresi	10,9 : 1
Susunan silinder
Sistem Starter	Motor Starter dan Starter Engkol
Sistem Pelumasan	Pelumasan Basah
Kapasitas Minyak Pelumas	Penggantian Berkala 800cc, Penggantian Total 1000cc
Bahan Bakar	Premium
Berat kosong	104 kg
Tipe rangka	Diamond Frame
Kapasitas tangki	4 Liter
Jarak sumbu roda	1.245 mm
Jarak terendah ke tanah	140 mm
Roda depan dan belakang	Velg Racing
Suspensi depan	Telescopic Fork
Radius belok minimum
Torsi maksimum	11,65N.m (1,165 kgf.m) pada 5500 rpm
Rem belakang	Tromol dengan Bahan

SPESIFIKASI MOTOR YAMAHA MIO SPORTY NEW

2008-09-09T08:00:00.002-07:00

Yamaha Mio Sporty
Spesifikasi Motor Pilihan Anda

Warna pilihan yang tersedia	Merah, Hitam, Biru
Harga (On The Road)	Rp. 11.394.500,-
Tipe Mesin	berpendingin udara, 4 langkah SOHC 2-klep
Diameter x Langkah	50 mm x 57,9 mm
Kopling	kering, sentrifugal otomatis
Gigi transmisi	V-belt otomatis
Pola pergantian gigi	Otomatis
Karburator	NCV24×1 (Keihin)
Baterai	GM5Z-3B/4B5L/12V5 AH
Busi	C7HSA/U22 FS-U
Volume silinder	113.7 cm3
Perbandingan kompresi	8,8:1
Susunan silinder	tunggal
Sistem Starter	elektric and kick
Sistem Pelumasan	wet sump
Kapasitas Minyak Pelumas	0,9 liter
Bahan Bakar	Premium
Berat kosong	87 kg
Tipe rangka	Steel Tube
Kapasitas tangki	3.7 liter
Jarak sumbu roda	1.240 mm
Jarak terendah ke tanah	130 mm
Roda depan dan belakang
Suspensi depan	teleskopik
Radius belok minimum
Torsi maksimum	7,84 N-m (0,88 kgf.m) @ 7.000 rpm
Rem belakang	Teromol

SPESIFIKASI MOTOR YAMAHA NOUVO Z NEW

2008-09-09T08:00:00.001-07:00

Yamaha Nouvo-Z
Spesifikasi Motor Pilihan Anda

Warna pilihan yang tersedia
Harga (On The Road)	Rp. 13.763.000,-
Tipe Mesin	4 langkah SOHC 2-Klep
Diameter x Langkah	50 mm x 57,9 mm
Kopling	Kering, Sentrifugal Otomatis
Gigi transmisi	V-Belt Otomatis
Pola pergantian gigi	Otomatis
Karburator	Mikuni BS 25 x 1
Baterai	BS 25 / MIKUNI
Busi	CR7HSA/U22FSR-U
Volume silinder	113,7 cc
Perbandingan kompresi	8,8 : 1
Susunan silinder	Tunggal Miring Kedepan
Sistem Starter	Electric and Kick
Sistem Pelumasan	Wet Sump
Kapasitas Minyak Pelumas	0,8 liter
Bahan Bakar	Premium
Berat kosong	96 kg
Tipe rangka	Pipa Baja
Kapasitas tangki	4,9 liter
Jarak sumbu roda	1.280 mm
Jarak terendah ke tanah	135 mm
Roda depan dan belakang
Suspensi depan	Teleskopik
Radius belok minimum
Torsi maksimum	7,84 N-m (0,88 kgf.m) @ 7.000 rpm
Rem belakang	Teromol

SPESIFIKASI MOTOR YAMAHA SCORPIO-Z NEW

2008-09-09T07:59:00.001-07:00

Yamaha Scorpio-Z

Warna pilihan yang tersedia	Hitam, Biru, Orange
Harga (On The Road)	Rp. 18.803.500,-
Tipe Mesin	4 langkah, SOHC pendingin udara
Diameter x Langkah	70 x 58 mm
Kopling	Manual
Gigi transmisi	5 kecepatan
Pola pergantian gigi	1-N-2-3-4-5
Karburator	BS 30 x 1 MIKUNI
Baterai	12V, 7AH/GM7B-4B
Busi	BP8EA/x24ES-U
Volume silinder	223 cc
Perbandingan kompresi	9.5 : 1
Susunan silinder	Silinder Tunggal Tegak
Sistem Starter	Kick & Electric
Sistem Pelumasan
Kapasitas Minyak Pelumas
Bahan Bakar	Premium
Berat kosong	125 kg
Tipe rangka	Double Cradle
Kapasitas tangki	13,5 liter
Jarak sumbu roda	1295 mm
Jarak terendah ke tanah	165 mm
Roda depan dan belakang
Suspensi depan	Teleskopik
Radius belok minimum
Torsi maksimum	1.86 kgf.m/6.500 RPM
Rem belakang	Tromol

KAWASAKI ZX130

2008-09-09T07:57:00.000-07:00

Kawasaki ZX 130
Sepeda Motor Paling “Gagah” di Kelasnya
JAKARTA - Makin lama seseorang mengendarai sebuah sepeda motor, makin sadarlah orang itu akan kelebihan dan kelemahan sepeda motornya. Hal ini juga berlaku ketika orang tersebut mengendarai Kawasaki ZX 130 yang juga sering disebut sebagai “Baby Ninja”.

“Baby Ninja” adalah sepeda motor bebek 4 tak, bermesin 130 cc, yang memiliki tampilan luar yang gagah. Hal ini disebabkan postur “Baby Ninja” yang lebih tinggi, lebih panjang, dan joknya lebih lebar dibanding sepeda motor bebek di kelasnya.
Pabrikan Kawasaki tampaknya juga sangat percaya diri dengan mematok angka di speedo meter hingga angka 170, padahal pabrikan sepeda motor lainnya mematok angka 140, atau paling banter 160. Tidak cuma itu, ZX 130 juga merupakan satu-satunya sepeda motor bebek di Indonesia saat ini yang “mencantumkan” label RPM (Rotary Per Minute) di odometernya.
Tentu saja, pencantuman pelengkap itu bukan tanpa maksud. Untuk mengetahui kesungguhan pabrikan Kawasaki, seseorang memang mestinya mencobanya.
Itulah yang dilakukan “SH” belum lama ini. Dan setelah dicoba selama sepekan, nyatalah bahwa ZX 130 memang lebih unggul di kelasnya, yakni kelas 125 hingga 130 cc. Kelebihan ZX 130 lainnya adalah sepeda motor ini dipasarkan di Indonesia dengan harga motor 110 CC atau 115 CC, yakni sekitar Rp 12,5 juta saja.
Hal ini membuat ZX 130 mempunyai nilai lebih. Belum lagi jika kita bicara tentang kemantapan bersepeda motor bebek, ZX 130 dapat ditempatkan di posisi puncak klasemen sementara.
Stangnya yang lebar membuat pengendara merasa nyaman dan tidak merasa capai. Suspensinya yang pas membuat stang tetap terkendali ketika melindas lubang. Kemantapan sebenarnya juga dipunyai sepeda motor Kawasaki jenis apa pun. Ini pula yang membuat Kawasaki menjadi sepeda motor Jepang paling laris di AS.

Posisi Duduk Nyaman
Perbandingan antara tinggi stang dengan tinggi tempat duduk pengendara yang pas memberikan pengendara posisi duduk yang nyaman, dengan pemandangan yang luas ke depan dan ke samping. Kaca spionnya yang kecil tapi engselnya lentur membuat pengendara bisa mengubah-ubah posisi kaca spion sampai ditemukan posisi yang benar-benar enak.
Jok lebar dan empuk juga punya andil dalam menyerap kelelahan pengendara maupun pembonceng. Belum lagi, posisi tengki bensinnya yang terletak di depan, membuat pengendara tidak perlu repot-repot turun ketika sedang mengisi bahan bakar.
Ia cukup memutar kunci kontak ke kiri dan penutup tengki bensin akan terbuka secara otomatis. Proses pengisian bahan bakar pun menjadi lebih singkat dibanding sepeda motor bebek lain di mana pengendara harus turun, memutar kunci di belakang dan mengangkat jok sepeda motornya.
Kondisi ini memungkinkan “Si Buyung” yang duduk di depan maupun “emaknya anak-anak” tidak usah turun dari sepeda motor. “Emaknya anak-anak” pun tampak puas diboncengi karena jok belakangnya luas dan tinggi.
Rem cakramnya di bagian depan memberikan rasa percaya diri dan rasa aman. Dan yang terakhir, kapasitas mesinnya yang 130 CC membuat sepeda motor ini selalu masuk kelompok terdepan setelah lampu lalu lintas berubah dari merah menjadi hijau.
Bisa 110 Km/Jam
Kelebihan ZX 130 lainnya adalah tenaganya yang besar. Gigi tiga sepeda motor ini bisa dipacu hingga 110 km/ jam dalam kondisi motor masih standar, belum “dikilik” atau diubah mesinnya. Jika gigi tiganya saja bisa sekencang itu, bagaimana dengan gigi empatnya. Namun, tampaknya hal ini tidak perlu dilakukan jika tidak mendesak. Makin kencang, kendaraan makin sulit dikendalikan. Hal ini bisa membahayakan si pengendara maupun orang lain.
ZX 130 memang didisain untuk jalanan di daerah perkotaan atau pedesaan. Daya jelajahnya luas. Posisi spak bor dengan ban yang agak jauh memudahkan ZX 130 dapat melaju di jalanan mulus maupun jalanan rusak berlumpur. Apa pun jenis jalan itu, satu hal yang harus diingat bahwa kapasitas tengki motor ini cuma 3,7 liter sehingga si pengendara harus “rajin” mampir ke pom bensin, terutama jika ia menempuh perjalanan jauh.
Dengan kata lain, si pengendara harus mampir ke pom bensin setiap 150 km.
Lampu depannya yang terang dan mudah terlihat memberikan rasa aman tersendiri, belum lagi rem cakram depannya yang terkesan nancep dan tidak ngesot ketika direm mendadak.
Keamanan ZX 130 boleh dibandingkan dengan keamanan sepeda motor lain, termasuk kelengkapan kunci pengaman dan bagasi tengah yang “water proof” yang memberikan perlindungan sempurna pada dokumen, henpon, dompet, arloji atau apa saja ketika pengendara harus menerobos hujan.

Perpindahan Gigi
ZX 130 mengingatkan orang pada peribahasa “tak ada gading yang tak retak”. Tak ada sepeda motor yang sempurna, begitu juga dengan ZX 130. Laher belakang rata-rata motor Kawasaki gampang pecah atau goyah. Hal ini membuat pengendaraan kurang nyaman, terutama ketika sedang menikung.
Kelemahan ZX 130 lainnya adalah ketika pengendara hendak memindahkan gigi 1 ke gigi 2. Pengendara biasanya kesulitan pindah ke gigi 2. Belakangan diketahui, pengendara harus segera memindahkan gigi sebelum membesarkan gas (pindahkan ke gigi 2 ketika gas masih kecil).
Hal ini kebalikannya dengan Yamaha Vega R, Jupiter Z, atau Honda Karisma, yang justru harus digeber dulu, baru kita masuk gigi 2. Jika kelemahan ini dapat diperbaiki Kawasaki, mungkin ZX 130 akan menjadi sepeda motor bebek paling unggul dan paling nyaman di kelasnya. (SH/isyanto)

10 Tips Merawat Ban Mobil Anda

2008-09-09T07:56:00.000-07:00

KapanLagi.com - Menurut data yang terdapat pada Departemen Keselamatan Lalu Lintas Jalan Raya Nasional AS, sebanyak 660 kasus kecelakaan lalu lintas diakibatkan oleh kurangnya tekanan angin dalam ban dan memakan korban luka berat sebanyak 33 ribu per tahun. Sebuah penelitian yang disponsori oleh Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) baru-baru ini, yang dilakukan terhadap 1000 orang pengemudi di seluruh negara bagian, menemukan fakta-fakta bahwa :

* 63% pengendara mobil menyebutkan bahwa tekanan ban sangat mempengaruhi jarak tempuh dari kendaraan
* Hanya 19% dari para pengemudi yang memeriksa kondisi tekanan ban mobil mereka
* Tiap bulan, tiga dari empat pengendara mobil mencuci kendaraan mereka, sementara hanya satu dari lima pengendara yang memeriksa tekanan ban mobil mereka

Anda dapat menempuh jarak hingga mencapai 3,3% lebih jauh dan menghemat ongkos BBM, jika Anda selalu rajin memeriksa keadaan tekanan ban mobil Anda dan menjaga agar selalu dalam tekanan yang seharusnya.

Di bawah ini adalah 10 tips perawatan ban mobil :

1. Jangan menunggu hingga ban rusak. Biasakan untuk selalu memeriksa tekanan ban mobil anda, paling sedikit sekali sebulan dan terutama sebelum melakukan perjalanan jarak jauh. Ban dengan tekanan yang kurang memadai akan menyebabkan ban mudah panas karena gesekan yang besar dengan aspal, sehingga ban cepat aus dan bisa membahayakan keselamatan mengemudi.

2. Anda harus hapal dengan tekanan yang proporsional dari ban mobil Anda. Ukuran tekanan ban yang pas bisa dilihat pada stiker yang menempel di bagian dalam dari pintu kendaraan Anda, atau pada buku petunjuk pemilik kendaraan.

3. Untuk pengukuran yang valid terhadap tekanan ban mobil Anda, periksalah ban saat suhu mereka dingin. Jika mobil Anda habis menempuh perjalanan jauh, tunggulah kurang lebih tiga jam.

4. Lakukan pemeriksaan berkala, paling tidak sebulan sekali dan jagalah agar ukuran tekanan ban mobil Anda selalu pada batasan yang proporsional. Sehingga mobil Anda siap untuk digunakan, jika sewaktu-waktu Anda butuhkan.

5. Uang koin bisa digunakan sebagai alat penunjuk bahwa ban mobil Anda telah gundul. Letakkan uang koin di tapak ban mobil Anda. Jika Anda bisa melihat seluruh gambar uang koin tersebut, maka saatnya bagi mobil Anda untuk ganti ban.

6. Jagalah ban mobil Anda dari lobang di jalan. Sebab lobang yang terlalu besar tak hanya bisa merusak ban mobil Anda, melainkan juga akan mengganggu keseimbangan atau balance dari ban mobil.

7. Buatlah jadwal. Pastikan Anda menukarkan ban mobil Anda antara yang di depan dengan yang di belakang tiap 6000 mil, agar menyeragamkan kondisi seluruh ban dan mempertahankan masa pakai ban lebih lama.

8. Jangan mengendarai mobil dengan ban yang tanpa penutup pentilnya. Mengemudikan mobil dengan ban tanpa penutup pentil bisa jadi menyebabkan kebocoran udara dari dalam ban dan bisa mengakibatkan ban kekurangan tekanan.

9. Periksalah keseimbangan atau balance dari ban mobil Anda secara periodik, untuk menghindari putaran ban yang tak stabil.

10. Perhitungkan bobot yang harus dimuat oleh mobil Anda. Jika muatan melebihi kapasitas maksimal dapat menimbulkan tekanan yang berlebih pada ban mobil Anda dan itu bisa sangat membahayakan. (asa/bun)

Cara Mudah Perawatan ‘Air Filter’ Mobil Anda

2008-09-09T07:55:00.000-07:00

KapanLagi.com - Seperti halnya manusia, jeroan mesin harus senantiasa sehat dan bersih. Itulah sebabnya, filter udara terasa begitu penting. Bila peranti penyaring kualitas udara menuju bahan bakar tak berfungsi dengan baik, udara yang masuk bersama bahan bakar menuju ruang mesin adakalanya bercampur debu dan mengganggu kinerja mesin. Paling sederhana mengakibatkan mesin ‘terbatuk-batuk’.

Untuk itu, ada baiknya kita selalu teliti dalam memilih filter udara yang dijual di pasaran. Memang, perawatannya relatif mudah, tinggal melepas filter dari sarangnya, lalu menyemprotkan kompresor. Cuma, bila tak dirawat dengan baik, amat mungkin tak bisa panjang umurnya.

Berbagai merek saringan udara amat melimpah di pasaran saat ini. Dari yang terbuat dari karton dan menjadi suku cadang standar kendaraan. Menyimak aneka jenis filter udara yang ada di pasaran, tentulah cara merawatnya berbeda-beda. Karena itu, cermati trik jitu agar saringan tetap bersih dan terawat dengan baik.

Untuk filter yang terbuat dari karton, usia pakainya paling banter Cuma sekitar 2500 km hingga 5000 km. Selebihnya, harus segera diganti. Karena kelemahan dari filter ini, pada usia pakai tertentu, permukaan karton menjadi ‘berbulu’. Bila hal ini dibiarkan, serpihan lembut yang bercampur dengan debu itu bisa ikut masuk ke ‘dapur pacu’ alias ruang pembakaran. Efek sampingnya, permukaan silinder akan tergores.

Merawat filter karton, relatif mudah. Angkat filter dari sarangnya, lalu bersihkan dengan kompresor udara. Kalau perlu, bagian pinggir filter diketuk pakai gagang obeng hingga debu yang melekat rontok semua.

Berbeda dengan filter yang terbuat dari spons. Umumnya mampu bertahan hingga 15.000 km atau setahun pakai. Seringan yang satu ini, merawatnya juga mudah. Celupkan saringan spons ke dalam air, lalu cuci pakai deterjen. Setelah benar-benar bersih, keringkan dengan cara diangin-anginkan ataupun dijemur tapi jangan sampai kena matahari secara langsung. Setelah kering, filter siap dipasang kembali.

Untuk filter berbahan serat katun, lain lagi ceritanya. Yang satu ini, perawatannya rada mahal, lantaran harus dibersihkan pakai cairan khusus. Untuk K&N misalnya, ada larutan pembersihnya sendiri. Pembersih yang terdiri dari sabun khusus dan oli ini, penggunaannya agak khusus.

Setelah filter dilepas dari rumahnya, kemudian peranti penyaring udara itu diketok hingga semua debu dan kotoran yang menempel rontok semua. Namun, saat ‘mengetok’ filter udara tersebut, usahakan menggunakan landasan yang empuk, seperti ban misalnya.

Tahap selanjutnya adalah menyiram filter tersebut dengan air yang mengalir, baru kemudian disemprot dengan cairan sabun khusus. Setelah didiamkan selama kurang lebih 5 menit, filter tersebut kemudian disiram kembali dengan air. Proses tersebut diulang hingga air sisa pencucian terlihat lebih bening.

Sebelum proses pengolesan dengan oli dilakukan, filter mesti dikeringkan. Ada dua cara yang dianjurkan, yakni yang pertama dengan hair dryer atau dengan compressor, tetapi dengan tekanan angin yang serendah mungkin. Akhir dari proses perawatan filter udara ditutup dengan pengolesan oli khusus. (mbl/bun)

Cara Jitu Merawat ‘Soft-Top’ Mobil Anda

2008-09-09T07:52:00.000-07:00

KapanLagi.com - Bagi Anda yang sehari-harinya mengendarai mobil kabriolet alias mobil yang atapnya bisa dibuka dan ditutup dengan mudah (convertible top), patut menjaga kondisi soft-top agar tetap prima. Cara terbaik untuk mencuci soft-top adalah dengan tangan (hand-washed).

Atau jika Anda mau menyisihkan sedikit uang, Anda bisa membawa soft-top yang telah dilepaskan dari rangkanya, ke binatu. Perawatan ini dapat memperpanjang usia soft-top mobil Anda.

Helmut Pless, Technical Director of Mercedes-Benz Classic Centre menyarankan beberapa langkah. Pertama, bersihkan soft-top dengan air hangat, lalu cucilah dengan sabun yang ringan. Anda dapat membuatnya dengan campuran dua sendok teh sabun dan 10 liter air.

Gunakan sikat halus, lalu mulailah menyikat dari bagian depan ke belakang dan jangan ditekan terlalu keras. Bilas lagi sampai benar-benar bersih dari sabun. Terakhir, keringkan dengan cara diangin-anginkan dan usahakan jangan terkena sinar matahari secara langsung.

Selain itu, Anda jangan melupakan faktor lingkungan. Cucilah soft-top Anda di tempat pencucian yang seharusnya. Anda juga sama sekali tidak disarankan mencuci dengan menyemprotkan air bertekanan tinggi.

Seandainya kabriolet Anda basah, berkendaralah keliling kota sejenak agar sedikit kering. Setelah itu, baru Anda boleh melepaskan soft-top untuk dijemur.

Jika Anda melipat soft-top dalam keadaan lembab, bukan saja beresiko mengandung jamur tapi juga menimbulkan lipatan-lipatan dan kusut, serta memendekkan usia soft-top mobil Anda.

So, daripada soft-top menjadi mudah berlubang dan jika hujan bisa menimbulkan kebocoran, maka tak ada salahnya jika Anda memberikan sedikit perhatian agar atap soft-top mobil Anda awet dan tahan lama. (mtr/bun)

Cara Gampang Merawat Motor Tua

2008-08-29T07:52:00.000-07:00

Kalau motor sudah mulai rewel, paling nyebelin! apalagi bagi yang mau mudik naik motor. Jangan buru-buru menyalahkan motor Anda, bisa jadi Andalah yang kurang merawat motor. So tak ada salahnya mengintip tips merawat motor berikut!

Cek Kondisi Oli

Oli mesin ini sangat penting peranannya untuk melumas komponen-komponen mesin, seperti stang seher, seher, dan ring seher, kruk as dan noken as atau stang klep. Jika keberadaan minyak pelumas sudah berwarna kehitam-hitaman atau kelenturan daya lumasnya berkurang, maka sebaiknya diganti. Ganti oli secara berkala dan gunakan sesuai dengan rekomendasi pabrikan.

Cek Kondisi Aki

Jangan biarkan air accu melewati batas maksimum dan minimum yang akibatnya bisa mempercepat kerusakan pada sel-sel accu. Tambahkan aki pada pagi hari.

Jangan biarkan baterai atau accu yang sudah mulai melemah, segeralah menggantinya, bukan hal baik jika anda tetap memaksa menggunakannya. Jika tetap dipaksakan kedua kutub positif dan negatif akan mengeluarkan korosi (serbuk putih) yang akan menjalar ke bagian kabel-kabel utama yang menghubungkan arus listrik ke saluran lampu, dinamo, atau bagian-bagian lainnya.

Jika memang motor anda mengalami hal tersebut, arus listrik yang dihantarkan baterai atau accu tidak sempurna akan menyebabkan kerusakan pada komponen dinamo, kontak mesin maupun switch lampu. Satu hal yang perlu diperhatikan jika accu sudah lemah atau tidak mampu di starter dan distarter, jangan memaksa mendorong sepeda motor untuk menghidupkannya sebab hanya akan merusak gigi transmisi.

Periksa Rantai dan Gir

Jangan biarkan rantai terlalu kendor, atau terlalu kencang. Terlalu kendor bisa membuat rantai copot dari girnya, sementara terlalu kencang bisa mengakibatkan putus rantai. Cek juga kondisi gir, jika sudah tajam segera ganti karena jika tidak rantai bisa tiba-tiba putus. Bahaya kan, kalo lagi ngebut tiba-tiba putus rantai?

Periksa Kabel Koil dan Busi

Perhatikan keberadaan kabel koil yang menghubungkan arus listrik ke busi. Cepat ganti kabel yang kelihatannya sudah cukup umur dan banyak terlihat keretakan dan pengerasan pada kabel. Jangan lupa perhatikan keberadaan busi karena busi sangat vital untuk kelancaran sebuah mesin kendaraan.

Perhatikan Selang Bensin

Selang bensin ke karburator juga merupakanm komponen yang layak diperhatikan. Jangan membiarkan kondisi selang bensin mengeras atau terjadi retakan-retakan, karena bagian dalam selang bisa jadi sudah tidak elastis dan mengakibatkan serbuk kotoran yang berasal dari selang terbawa ke karburator. Pada akhirnya akan terjadi penyumbatan suplai bensin dari tanki ke karburator sehingga mengganggu sistem pembakaran.

Panaskan Mesin paling lama 2 Menit

Panaskan mesin sebelum motor dijalankan, tak perlu lama-lama cukup 1-2 menit agar sirkulasi oli bisa melumasi seluruh bagian dalam mesin yang bergerak. Jangan terlalu lama memanaskan karena akan membuat pipa knalpot menguning selain itu Anda pasti tak mau buang-buang bensin khan?.

Periksa tekanan angin ban

Jangan terlalu keras dan juga jangan kurang karena bisa berakibat kembang ban motor rusak.

Gunakan Selalu Sparepart Asli

Lebih baik mahal sedikit, tapi puas dan tahan lama daripada memakai yang tidak asli, meski murah tapi tapi daya tahan kurang.

So tidak sulit bukan, asal anda rajin merawat motor dengan benar pasti motor kesayangan Anda senatiasa tampil prima. (honda/rit)

Tips Menjaga Ban Sepeda Motor Tetap Awet

2008-08-28T07:51:00.000-07:00

Ban, piranti yang memegang peranan vital pada sepeda motor. So merawat si bundar ini sudah pasti menjadi ritual wajib bagi pengendara sepedamotor, selain sebagai penghematan, merawat ban dengan benar juga turut menjaga keselamatan pengendara maupun penumpangnya.

Tekanan udara ban yang tak tepat sangat mempengaruhi keseimbangan dan stabilitas laju sepeda motor. Jangan pernah memakai ban lain kecuali yang ditetapkan oleh pabrikan sepeda motor karena fungsi ban yang sangat vital bagi sepeda motor Anda perlu mengetahui penyebab kerusakannya seperti:

Ban bocor

Periksalah apakah pentil ban mengalami kebocoran. Untuk memeriksanya lepaskanlah tutup pentil dan taruhlah air sabun di atas lubang pentil. Bila air sabun membentuk gelembung udara, bisa dipastikan pentil tersebut bocor. Bila bocor keraskanlah pentil tersebut dengan memakai alat pengencang pentil yang ada di tutup pentil. Tetapi bila masih bocor, pentil tersebut rusak dan harus diganti dengan yang baru. Periksalah apakah ban terkena paku atau benda-benda tajam lainnya.

Ban aus secara abnormal

Periksalah apakah tekanan ban sudah benar. Jika telapak atau tread ban telah aus, ban mudah tertusuk dan rusak. Tekanan ban harus disetel supaya sesuai beban pada sepeda motor. Jangan sampai sepeda motor dibebani berlebihan karena dapat menyebabkan ban cepat rusak.

Ban berputar tak teratur

Periksalah apakah ban berputar sudah seimbang dan periksa apakah jari-jari telah dikencangkan secara benar? Tak ada salahnya juga anda mencermati dan memperhatikan hal berikut:

Perhatikan kapasitas muatan sepedamotor Anda meskipun kecepatan sepedamotor juga ambil peranan penting dalam hal ini. Sesuaikan ban dengan kondisi jalan yang dilewati.

Tekanan

Periksa secara rutin tekanan angin (baiknya setiap hari pada saat udara dingin). Samakan tekanan angin antara yang depan dan belakang. Sebab laju sepedamotor yang tidak seimbang berbahaya sekali buat mengendarai dan pengereman.

Jarak tempuh

Periksa jarak tempuh dan sisi luar ban, untuk menjaga keselamatan. Setiap 10.000 km keseimbangan dan kelurusan ban harus dicek. Apalagi bila sering digunakan dengan kecepatan tinggi. Lakukan rotasi diantara kedua ban. Sebaiknya gunakan ban dengan diameter yang ditentukan dari standar sepedamotor Anda.

Selain jarak tempuh, suhu dan cuaca juga mempengaruhi keawetan ban juga. Kondisi jalan yang panas pada musim kemarau menyebabkan usia ban bertambah lebih pendek dibandingkan musim hujan. Selain itu cara mengemudi dari pengendara juga bisa mempengaruhi keawetan ban tersebut. Cara memulai jalan yang mendadak dan pengereman mendadak, berpengaruh besar dengan keawetan ban.

Demi keselamatan, kenyamanan dan keawetan usia ban cobalah selalu menjalankan sepedamotor Anda dengan baik dan benar. Selamat berkendara. (oto/rit)

Si Macho Nissan 'New X-Trail Stt'

2008-08-27T07:56:00.000-07:00

PT Nissan Motor Indonesia (NMI) yakin dapat mencapai target penjualannya untuk tahun 2005 sebesar 15 ribu unit, meningkat hampir 25% dari penjualan tahun lalu, seiring dengan makin dikenalnya berbagai produk Nissan di kalangan masyarakat otomotif Indonesia.

Presiden Direktur PT Nissan Motor Indonesia (NMI) Norio Ota menegaskan itu ketika meresmikan peluncuran New X-Trail di Jakarta.

"Melihat laju pertumbuhan yang sangat menggembirakan sekarang ini, saya yakin Nissan dapat mencapai target penjualannya untuk tahun 2005 dan juga mewujudkan tujuan jangka menengahnya guna meraih penjualan tahunan 40 ribu unit dalam tiga tahun ke depan, dan menjadi salah satu pemain besar di pasar otomotif di sini," katanya.

Penjualan (NMI) selama 6 bulan pertama tahun 2005 sangat memuaskan. Penjualan Nissan selama periode tersebut tercatat 6.989 unit, meningkat 2.010 unit atau naik sekitar 40% dibandingkan dengan periode yang sama tahun lalu.

Kontributor terbesar dari penjualan periode itu masih tetap X-trail, yang menyumbang 4.230 unit atau sekitar 60% dari total penjualan.

Sejak dipasarkan secara resmi di Indonesia pada tahun 2003, penjualan X-trail terus meningkat. Bahkan sepanjang tahun 2004 X-trail meraih posisi teratas dari segi penjualan untuk segmen SUV sehingga X-trail menjadi SUV No. 1 di Indonesia.

Untuk mempertahankan posisi SUV No.1 itu, NMI terus melakukan perbaikan dalam berbagai hal, termasuk mutu dan desain produk. Salah satunya adalah dengan memperkenalkan New X-trail.

"Selain varian X-trail St dan Xt yang selama ini sudah dipasarkan di Indonesia, kini kami memperkenalkan varian X-trail terbaru, yaitu New X-Trail Stt," kata Ota.

X-Trail Macho

New X-Trail Stt adalah varian X-Trail terbaru dengan penampilan lebih macho dibanding kedua varian lainnya. Bila New X-Trail Stt menekankan pada functional oriented, maka X-Trail Xt merupakan top of the line dengan segala fitur kenyamanan dan kemewahannya.

Menurut Deputy Director Sales & Marketing NMI Teddy Irawan, kehadiran X-Trail Stt dimaksudkan untuk memenuhi selera konsumen, yaitu mereka yang menunggu-nunggu produk X-Trail yang lebih macho. Pesona Stt memang berbeda. Dari segi positioning, X-Trail Stt menjembatani X-Trail St yang merupakan varian standard, sedangkan X-Trail Xt merupakan varian top of the line. "Varian Stt directions-nya mengarah pada pada bentuk X-Trail yang lebih gagah," kata Teddy.

Komponen yang membuat X-Trail Stt tampak lebih macho adalah kelengkapan yang melekat pada varian ini. Stt dilengkapi dengan front guard bar, side step, black side molding, overfenders, dan roof rack.

Seluruh line-up New X-Trail kini tampil dengan new front grille design, yaitu grille depan dengan tampilan baru berbentuk dua lis menyerupai huruf V yang mengapit logo Nissan. Di samping itu, ke-tiga varian New X-Trail ini kini juga dilengkapi new design side mirrors, alarm dan cargo net.

Untuk menambah kenyamanan perjalanan, khusus untuk X-Trail Stt dan Xt, ada tambahan audio system baru yaitu DVD yang dilengkapi LCD touch screen. Teknologi touch screen sangat mudah dioperasikan sehingga tidak menyita konsentrasi saat berkendara.

Generasi 2005 X-Trail ini kini juga hadir dengan pilihan warna baru, yaitu burning red. Sebelumnya telah ada pilihan warna lain yaitu: dark blue pearl, beige metallic, black solid, misty green metallic, dan titanium silver metallic.

"Kehadiran X-Trail Stt, selain untuk memperkuat dan melengkapi line-up X-Trail yang ada saat ini, diharapkan juga dapat memperkokoh brand image Nissan sebagai SUV No. 1 di Indonesia. Dan yang terpenting, X-Trail Stt diharapkan dapat menunjang penjualan Nissan di Indonesia," kata Ota.

Ia mengatakan bahwa meningkatnya volume penjualan Nissan dibarengi dengan pengembangan jaringan penjualannya. Dari 42 dealer Nissan yang saat ini tersebar di seluruh Indonesia, 26 di antaranya telah memiliki RVI (Retail Visual Identity) sesuai standard Nissan Motor Co., Ltd (Nissan Jepang). Tahun 2005 ini NMI bermaksud membuka 6 dealer baru. Pada tahun 2007 diharapkan sudah ada 60 dealer Nissan di seluruh Indonesia.

"Saat ini kami juga sedang menjajaki kemungkinan untuk memasuki secara lebih agresif segmen lainnya yang juga cukup besar dan potensial yaitu mid MPV sebagai bagian dari rencana pengembangan bisnis Nissan di Indonesia. Persiapan kami ke arah sana sudah semakin matang dan sesuai rencana," kata Ota.

Sejalan dengan pengembangan bisnis itu, NMI juga akan meningkatkan kapasitas produksi dan memperluas organisasi perusahaan. Dengan pengembangan bisnis Nissan, NMI juga turut memberikan kontribusi dalam membuka lapangan kerja dan pertumbuhan ekonomi Indonesia.

Ota menekankan, dalam usaha memperluas bisnis Nissan di Indonesia, sangat penting bagi NMI untuk selalu memperkokoh brand image sebagai SUV No. 1 di Indonesia. Di dunia saat ini, Nissan juga dikenal sebagai produsen SUV yang kuat.

Tips Berhelm Nyaman dan Aman

2008-08-27T07:50:00.000-07:00

Helm, atribut vital bagi pengemudi dan penumpang sepeda motor. Selain melindungi kepala dari sengat matahari hal yang paling penting dari 'si bundar' ini melindungi kepala dari kecelakaan lalu lintas. Seiring berjalannya waktu, helm juga mengalami banyak perkembangan, tak hanya sebagai pelindung, helm juga jadi aksesori menilik dari banyaknya helm funky yang banyak dikenakan kawula muda.

So apapun alasannya helm tetap pegang peranan penting bagi pengendara motor. Demi keselamatan dan kenyamanan berkendara tak ada salahnya mencermati tips berhelm berikut:

1. Pilih kaca helm yang bening dan memberikan efek netral sehingga tak mengganggu pemandangan, terutama saat digunakan pada malam hari.

2. Ukuran helm harus disesuaikan dengan kepala pemakainya. Helm yang disarankan bagi seorang pengemudi adalah helm yang pas atau menekan bagian pipi dan dahi pada wajah. Jika helm yang digunakannya itu tidak pas atau longgar, besar kemungkinan helm itu akan terlepas dari kepala semakin besar dan membahayakan pengendara.

3. Helm yang disarankan bagi pembonceng adalah menggunakan helm yang sesuai dengan ukuran kepala pemakainya dengan kaca polos, usahakan menggunakan helm yang menutupi seluruh bagian wajah.

4. Buka kaca bagian depan helm seperempat bagian saat hujan atau membuka seluruh ventilasi helm. Mmebuka kaca akan mengurangi kabut pada kaca yang dapat mengganggu penglihatan pengemudi.

5. Gunakanlah helm yang baru. Hindari menggunakan helm yang sudah jatuh lebih dari dua kali sebaiknya beli lagi yang baru.

Mudah bukan, demi kenyamanan anda saat berkendara, tak ada salahnya mencoba tips tersebut khan? Berkendara aman, andapun selamat sampai tujuan.(oto/bike/rita)

Mercedes Benz Akan Melaunching Empat Model Baru di Cina

2008-08-26T07:54:00.000-07:00

Mercedes-Benz, merek mobil mewah Jerman ini memperkenalkan empat model baru pada International Auto Show tahun ini di Shanghai serta mengumumkan produksi lokal C- dan E-Class di China dalam paruh kedua tahun 2005. Produk utama yang ditampilkan adalah Grand Sports Tourer R-Class. Ia dilengkapi oleh Compact Sports Tourer B-Class, CLK-Class baru dan Sport Utility Vehicle M-Class baru.

"Mercedes-Benz menawarkan 14 model di China. Jajaran produk kami merupakan yang terluas di segmen kelas atas dan mewah. Dengan permulaan produksi lokal di pabrik baru di Beijing, kami akan mengukuhkan komitmen jangka panjang di pasar penting ini", tegas Dr. Thomas Weber, anggota dewan DaimlerChrysler yang bertanggungjawab atas penelitian dan pengembangan serta pengembangan kelompok mobil Mercedes, dalam jumpa pers Mercedes-Benz di Shanghai.

Hal penting Mercedes-Benz: R-Class baru Hanya beberapa pekan setelah peluncuran perdananya di New York, Grand Sports Tourer R-Class juga disambut hangat di Shanghai.

Dr. Weber: "Saya yakin konsep inovatif "Dynamic Space" mobil ini akan sangat populer di antara para pelanggan di China. Ia menggabungkan keserbagunaan dan desain menarik dengan kenyamanan limusin mewah dan standar keamanan tertinggi ke dalam kelasnya sendiri."

B-Class menafsirkan konsep dan manfaat Sports Tourer dalam bentuk yang lebih kompak. Seperti produk yang lebih besar, ia menggabungkan keuntungan segmen mobil mapan. Meskipun berukuran kompak dengan panjang keseluruhan 4,27 m, para penumpang B-Class dapat menikmati dimensi ruang dalam dan keserbagunaan tertinggi.

Mercedes-Benz akan memperkenalkan R-, M-, CLK-Class ke China dalam beberapa bulan mendatang. B-Class akan ditawarkan terlebih dahulu kepada pasar terpilih di Asia. "Dimulai pada Auto Shanghai 2005, kami akan memantau minat masyarakat China pada Compact Sports Tourer. Jika reaksi konsumen dan media positif, kami juga dapat menawarkan B-Class di China dalam waktu dekat," jelas Dr. Weber. (mercedesbenz/*)

Pengapus Dahaga Penggemar Hatchback Premium,BMW 120i

2008-08-26T07:53:00.000-07:00

BMW 120i hadir ramaikan segmen mobil compact mewah di negeri ini. Mobil sporty yang bakal menghapus dahaga para penggemar hatchback premium.

BMW 120i merupakan kendaraan berjiwa muda yang dipenuhi dengan berbagai fitur modern berkelas kendaraan premium. Ditambah performa pengendaraan yang luar biasa, bungsu di keluarga BMW Indonesia ini menjadi standar terbaru di kelasnya.

Hatchback premium berpintu lima ini tentu tetap mempertahankan karakter khas BMW. Jarak sumbu roda depan dan belakang yang panjang (wheelbase) dengan overhang depan pendek, atap yang rendah dengan bentuk pilar C yang khas, serta karakteristik bagian depan dengan kidney grill-nya dan dua lampu besar memberikan tampilan BMW Seri 1 menjadi lebih menonjol dibanding yang lainnya. Sedan compact ini memiliki ukuran kompartemen bagasi yang fleksibel mulai dari 330 hingga 1.150 liter untuk dapat dimuati dengan peralatan sport untuk beraktivitas.

Posisi duduk memberikan kenyamanan berkendara jarak jauh, dengan struktur kokpitnya yang sangat jelas, sehingga memberikan kenyamanan ergonomis bagi pengendara pada saat mengemudi. Menghidupkan mesin bisa dengan cara hanya menekan tombol, bukan memutar kunci seperti lazimnya.

Berkat kelincahan dan keunikan pengendalian yang khusus di segmen mobil compact, sedan ini tidak hanya pengendalian yang halus di jalan berliku, tapi juga mampu tampil lincah di jalan-jalan perkotaan. Ini berkat ciri khas yang dimiliki semua mobil BMW yang bermesin depan sekaligus berpenggerak roda belakang.

Menurut klaim BMW Indonesia, walaupun dalam tikungan yang sempit sekalipun, tidak akan ada gejala kehilangan torsi sedikit pun. Ban belakangnya sangat baik mencengkram jalanan pada saat mengalihkan tenaga dari mesin ke jalan.

Konsep tersebut juga memberikan keseimbangan berat yang ideal antara poros depan alumunium dengan suspensi belakang. Gabungan semua karakter tersebut bahkan mampu memberikan kelebihan dalam memfasilitasi traksi yang optimal, walaupun pada saat dimuati dengan semua penumpang dan melewati tanjakan. Konsep pengendaraan dan suspensi tersebut sangat dipengaruhi oleh teknologi bodi yang kuat serta struktur aerodinamis yang bagus dengan hambatan koefisien (coefficient drag) hanya sebesar 0,29.

Secara keseluruhan, tidak ada yang lain di kelas mobil compact yang menawarkan perpaduan harmonis antara karakter sporti dengan kenyamanan berkendaraan jarak jauh yang terdapat pada BMW Seri 1.

Pada tahap awal BMW 120i menggunakan mesin bensin empat silinder berkapasitas 1.995 cc yang mampu menghasilkan tenaga sebesar 150 hp (daya kuda) pada rpm 6.200 dengan torsi maksimum sebesar 200 Nm pada rpm 3.600. Dengan mesin ini, BMW 120i mampu mencapai batas maksimum kecepatan hingga 217 km/jam. Akselerasinya, kecepatan 100 km/jam bisa dicapai hanya dalam waktu 8,7 detik dari titik diam.

Berbagai perlengkapan keselamatan aktif dan pasif sudah pasti juga menjadi primadona di sini. Disc brake yang besar, misalnya, mampu menghentikan mobil dalam situasi apa pun tanpa memberikan goncangan keras bagi penumpang. Sistem lampu rem 2 tahap memberikan sinyal lebih baik bagi pengendara di belakang apakah BMW Seri 1 ini sedang mengerem normal atau mendadak.

Segmen keamanan tentu tak bakal dilupakan si bungsu seri 1 ini, yang terdiri dari perlengkapan standar keamanan seperti: DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), DBC (Dynamic Brake Control), Electronic Differential Lock, Brake Force Display serta dilengkapi juga dengan sistem airbag yang terdapat pada pelindung bagian kepala untuk semua penumpang dan pengendara sesuai dengan persyaratan keselamatan yang ketat. Fitur keselamatan dan pelindung struktur bodi adalah yang terbaik serta memenuhi persyaratan sehingga berhasil memperoleh lima bintang dalam crash test Euro NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme).

BMW 120i ditawarkan dengan harga Rp 435 juta on the road Jakarta. Pemesanan model terbaru ini sudah dapat dilakukan saat sekarang di semua diler resmi Astra terdekat. Sementara itu, untuk pengirimannya akan mulai dilakukan pada bulan April 2005. Konsumen dapat memilih variasi dua warna eksterior, termasuk black sapphire dan titanium silver serta dilengkapi juga dengan dua warna interior terdiri dari grey blue dan black. (bmwt/astra)

Gaya Berkendara dan Tips Irit BBM

2008-08-26T07:48:00.000-07:00

Konsumsi bahan bakar adalah perkara yang sensitif bagi pengendara mobil. Semakin irit pemakaian bahan bakar, pemilik kendaraan tentu semakin senang. Tak heran bila di komunitas pecinta otomotif, selalu ramai dengan diskusi dan sharing mengenai tips agar mobil tidak boros. Tak ada salahnya anda mencoba tips berikut.

Jangan menginjak pedal gas dengan menghentak

Injakan harus stabil dan bertahap. Kalau pedal gas diinjak secara tiba-tiba, otomatis bahan bakar yang akan diisap ke ruang bakar juga semakin banyak. Sementara, pada saat itu putaran mesin masih rendah. Akibatnya tidak semua bahan bakar yang masuk ke ruang mesin terbakar. Ini yang disebut dengan pemborosan. Karena, bahan bakar yang masuk tidak keluar dalam bentuk tenaga, tetapi ikut terbuang lewat knalpot.

Pindahkan gigi persneling sesuai RPM kendaraan

Saat memindahkan gigi persneling, alangkah baiknya pada rpm yang sesuai spesifikasi kendaraan. Spesifikasi ini dapat dilihat pada buku manual kendaraan. Di brosur iklan biasanya juga terpampang keterangan mengenai moment maximum (torsi maximum) dalam satuan kgm/rpm.

Satu kebiasaan yang seringkali dilupakan pengendara adalah: tidak segera menyesuaikan gigi persneling setelah penurun kecepatan (deselerasi). Setelah berlari kencang lalu tiba-tiba ngerem mendadak, sebaiknya juga mengoper gigi perseneling ke posisi lebih rendah.

Periksa kondisi HC dan CO

Boros atau tidaknya konsumsi bahan bakar juga ditentukan oleh komponen-komponen mesin. Komponen mesin yang sudah banyak mengalami keausan/ kerusakan bisa menyebabkan pembakaran bahan bakar tidak sempurna. Untuk mengetahuinya, periksa emisi gas buang. Apabila hasil pemeriksaan menunjukkan nilai HC (hidrokarbon) dan CO (karbonmonoksida) terlalu tinggi, ini pertanda pembakaran di ruang bakar tidak sempurna (banyak bahan bakar terbuang percuma).

Hubungan beban serta penggerak terhadap konsumsi bahan bakar

Faktor lain yang menentukan konsumsi bahan bakar adalah beban dan penggerak (pendorong kendaraan). Semakin berat beban yang harus diangkut, konsumsinya juga akan semakin besar. Yang dimaksud penggerak diantaranya, kopling, bearing (roda), kopel (propeler shaft), as roda, dan roda.

Bila komponen-komponen ini aus atau rusak, akan menyebabkan hilangnya tenaga yang dihasilkan oleh mesin untuk mendorong mobil mejalu. Sementara, konsumsi bahan bakarnya tetap besar. Terkait dengan roda, penyematan ban dan velg besar, termasuk juga mempengaruhi konsumsi bbm. (astraworld)

Trik Ngirit BBM

2008-08-26T07:47:00.000-07:00

Setiap kali pemerintah mengumumkan kenaikan harga bbm pasti pemilik kendaraan dibuat cemas. Kenyataan ini membuat kita harus pandai-pandai memutar otak menyiasati asupan BBM. Meskipun perilaku hemat bahan bakar ini tergantung pada pemilik kendaraan, namun tak ada salahnya kita cermati beberapa trik hemat bahan bakar berikut:

- Hindari memanaskan mesin terlalu lama, waktu tiga menit adalah waktu yang ideal memanaskan mesin kendaraan Anda. Ketika jarum penunjuk suhu mesin mulai bergerak, Anda sudah bisa menggunakan mobil.

- Lajukan kendaraaan dengan kecepatan konstan, tetapi tetap mampu berakselarasi seperlunya dan bisa memanfaatkan kendaraan untuk bermanuver. Jika Anda ingin melajukan mobil lebih cepat, setelah pedal gas ditekan sedikit, langsung pindahkan gigi ke posisi yang lebih tinggi. Jangan tunggu sampai putaran mesin naik. Dengan melakukan hal ini saja, Anda sudah bisa menghemat konsumsi bahan bakar sebanyak 5-10 persen.

- Jika Anda terpaksa menekan pedal gas cukup dalam, usahakan tidak lebih dari 80%. Manfaatkan gaya dorong mobil untuk melakukan percepatan saat Anda ingin melajukan mobil lebih cepat. Gunakan gigi yang paling tinggi saat Anda sedang melaju cepat di jalan tol. Putaran mesin pun akan tetap rendah, dan pemakaian bahan bakar pun bisa lebih dihemat

- Jika Anda sedang melaju di jalur yang cukup lowong, misalnya di jalan tol, usahakan kecepatan mobil berada di sekitar 70 km/jam. Ini adalah kecepatan yang paling pas dan terhitung ekonomis. Jika Anda melebihi kecepatan tersebut, putaran mesin akan meninggi, dan konsumsi bahan bakar akan semakin boros.

- Jangan injak pedal gas dengan menghentak. Injakan harus stabil dan bertahap, jika gas diinjak tiba-tiba, otomatis bahan bakar yang akan diisap ke ruang bakar semakin banyak, sementara pada saat itu putaran mesin masih rendah. Akibatnya tidak semua bahan bakar yang masuk ke ruang mesin terbakar. Karena, bahan bakar yang masuk tidak keluar dalam bentuk tenaga, tetapi ikut terbuang lewat knalpot. Lajukanlah mobil dengan kecepatan konstan. Jangan terlalu sering menekan pedal gas dan melakukan pengereman mendadak, terutama saat lampu hijau telah berganti. Sebelumnya toh Anda sudah memperhitungkan akan melewati lampu merah?

- Pindahkan tranmisi dengan benar, umumnya mesin mobil bekerja dengan efisiensi pada putaran 2500 hingga 4000 rpm, sehingga pergantian gigi harus diusahakan sesuai daerah putaran.

- Saat memindahkan gigi persneling, sebaiknya pada rpm yang sesuai spesifikasi kendaraan. Spesifikasi ini dapat dilihat pada buku manual kendaraan atau dibrosur iklan yang biasanya terdapat keterangan mengenai moment maximum (torsi maximum) dalam satuan kgm/rpm. Satu kebiasaan yang seringkali dilupakan pengendara adalah: tidak segera menyesuaikan gigi persneling setelah penurun kecepatan (deselerasi). Setelah berlari kencang lalu tiba-tiba ngerem mendadak, sebaiknya oper gigi perseneling ke posisi lebih rendah.

- Perhatikan penunjukan tekanan pada kendaraan anda, jika tekanannya rendah kerja mesin ringan dan komsumsi BBM irit, jika tekannnya tinggi, kerja mesin berat dan tentu membuat konsumsi BBM makin boros. Coba gunakan Crusie control dimana peralatan ini bisa digunakan untuk menghemat BBM terutama dijalan tol.

- Periksa kondisi HC dan CO. Boros atau tidaknya konsumsi bahan bakar juga ditentukan oleh komponen-komponen mesin. Komponen mesin yang sudah aus membuat pembakaran bahan bakar tak sempurna. Tak ada salahnya Anda memeriksa emisi gas buang. Jika hasil pemeriksaan menunjukkan nilai HC (hidrokarbon) dan CO (karbonmonoksida) terlalu tinggi, ini pertanda pembakaran di ruang bakar tidak sempurna (banyak bahan bakar terbuang percuma).

- Saat memperlambat atau menghentikan laju kendaraan, manfaatkanlah pengurangan kecepatan dengan mesin (engine brake). Angkat pedal perlahan, dan putaran mesin pun akan ikut berkurang.

- Usahakan memperkecil setting temperatur AC, jika Anda memang tak begitu membutuhkan AC.

- Pompa ban mobil sesuai ukuran karena ban yang kurang keras, tahanan gelindingnya akan keras.

- Aksesori di bodi mobil mempengaruhi pemborosan BBM seperti penambahan kaca spion, antene, ban lebar, foot step karena makin memperbesar hambatan angin kendaraan.

- Modifikasi untuk meninggikan dan mengangkat kendaraaan juga bisa memperbesar angin kendaraan.

Beberapa trik yang mungkin bisa membantu kita lebih bijak menghemat BBM ditengah krisis energi saat ini. Selamat berkendara!

Citroen Nemo Concept Car

2008-08-08T23:59:00.000-07:00

Hehehe,… I find a funny concept car in our neighbor site, it's a concept car which inspirited by the “Finding Nemo” box office hit animation. This car presented in October at the Road Transport Show in Amsterdam, The Citroën NEMO Concept is now on display at the 2007 Bologna Motor Show. The concept car is colored in white, orange and black and it celebrate the famous Disney clown fish.

Honda Tiger 200 CC Sporty Modification

2008-08-08T06:34:00.000-07:00

This one is a sporty modification concept of Honda Tiger 200 CC. I found this in a wordpress blogger, blogged by an Indonesian local blogger. He doesn't add any information in the post he made. Well,.. I think It's an expression of their fan about how Honda will improve their next design… And I think, Honda should begin to hear their customer about what kind of design is wanted by their customer. If not,.. never dream to take over Yamaha's top market share in Indonesia. And Honda should thanks to their fans of this brilliant design ideas!