Insta360 X5 Summer Update: New Tools and Improvements for Creatives and Motorcyclists
With the summer update for the Insta360 X5, the manufacturer is responding to feedback from the community and adding numerous features and improvements to its flagship 360-degree camera. The aim is to significantly enhance the user experience for professional filmmakers, ambitious hobbyists, and motorcyclists in particular. The update includes both software and hardware innovations designed to increase the camera's flexibility, usability, and endurance.
A new patent from Sweden is causing a stir in the world of motorcycle safety. Airbag Inside Sweden AB, also known as Mo'Cycle, is pursuing a goal with its innovative airbag system: to offer maximum protection for motorcyclists without it being visible from the outside. Unlike conventional protective clothing, the outfit looks like normal everyday clothing—until the moment an accident happens.
Electric mobility is also making its way into the off-road segment. With the recently discovered patent for a new model called CF-X, CFMoto now seems to be seriously entering the ring – as a competitor to established electric motocross bikes such as the Stark Varg. Initial details from the patent provide information about the vehicle's technology and design, although an official announcement has yet to be made.
Honda is working on an electric superbike: new patent drawings show the Fireblade in electric format
Honda is continuing to push ahead with the electrification of its motorcycle portfolio and has recently filed a patent for a fully electric superbike that is visually and technically reminiscent of the well-known Fireblade. For the development, Honda is utilizing technology and experience from the successful Mugen Shinden project, which was created specifically for the TT Zero at the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy.
NEW MOTORCYCLES
TVS Motors has unveiled the new Apache RTR 160 2V model in India. The most striking new feature is the dual-channel ABS, which is now standard and provides additional safety when braking. Following the redesign of the sporty Apache RTR 160 4V model at the end of 2024, the two-valve version is now also receiving a comprehensive upgrade.
Buell has unveiled a new version of its flagship model: the Hammerhead 1190 Freedom Edition. The most striking feature is the eye-catching stars and stripes design, which clearly sets this special edition apart from the familiar models. For the time being, the Freedom Edition will be available exclusively to customers in the US. Although Buell recently returned to the British market, there is no information yet as to whether this version will also be available in Europe.
KTM has released the first concrete details about the 690 Enduro R for the 2026 model year. Following a presentation at this year's Adventure Bike Rider Festival, the Austrian manufacturer has confirmed that the revised Enduro will be available at dealers from the beginning of next year. The focus is on a fundamental redesign of the well-known LC4 single-cylinder engine, but also on numerous innovations in the areas of electronics and ergonomics.
Legals
More and more motorcyclists and drivers are documenting their trips with action cams or dash cams—whether for protection in the event of an accident or to capture special moments. However, what may seem normal in one country can quickly become expensive or even punishable in another. The publication of video recordings, for example after a vacation, carries additional risks. Portugal has recently tightened its regulations, but other countries are also taking a restrictive approach.
Since June 12, 2025, new, stricter regulations have been in force in Italy for the use of speed cameras, known as “Autovelox.” According to the Italian Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, these measures are intended not only to increase road safety, but also to ensure greater transparency and fairness. The reform was preceded by a long-standing debate about questionable speed camera locations and ever-increasing fine revenues.
MOTORSPORT
The 2025 German Grand Prix at the Sachsenring will not only be remembered for its sporting drama, but also for setting new standards off the track: With 256,441 fans, a new attendance record was set – further proof of the unbroken fascination of motorcycle racing. Despite the absence of a German starter, more spectators than ever before attended the three days of the event, following on from last year's attendance of 252,826.
Yamaha Motor's 70th anniversary in 2025 is not only an occasion to celebrate the brand's technical milestones, but also the unique stories that have shaped motorcycle racing. One such story connects two of Northern Ireland's most famous racers – Joey Dunlop and Jonathan Rea – as well as the Rea family across three generations. At the heart of it all is a racing machine that has become a symbol of passion, perseverance, and family ties.
In July 2025, a 2010 Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SC59 will be up for auction at RM Sotheby's. The estimated price is between €25,000 and €35,000 (approximately $27,000 to $38,000). The bike stands out from typical race track motorcycles – not only because of its famous previous owner, Michael Schumacher, but also because of the extensive modifications made by Holzhauer Racing Performance (HRP).
Speculation is mounting in the MotoGP paddock about Harley-Davidson's possible entry into the premier class of motorcycle racing. This is based on reports that the traditional US brand could enter the series with a rebranded prototype from another manufacturer. The background to this is the increasing importance of the US market within MotoGP, not least due to the influence of Liberty Media, which recently acquired the commercial rights to the racing series.
The 2025 MotoGP season reaches another high point in the tenth race in Assen: Marc Marquez triumphs on the legendary TT Circuit and celebrates his 68th victory in the highest class of motorcycle racing. This puts the Spaniard on par with Giacomo Agostini, one of the sport's greatest icons. The race in the province of Drenthe was not only thrilling, but also full of twists and turns – with an impact on the world championship and the history books.
The contractual relationship between Jorge Martin and manufacturer Aprilia is currently causing discussion in the MotoGP scene. As his manager Albert Valera publicly stated, Martin has made use of a contractually agreed exit clause and is therefore officially contract-free for the 2026 season. While Martin is not at the Tourist Trophy in Assen this weekend, he says he is currently training on a road bike before returning to the motorcycle. Manager Valera, on the other hand, is in Assen and gave several interviews on Saturday to clarify the current status of the contract situation.
TECHNOLOGY
Chinese motorcycle manufacturer CFMoto has filed patents for a new type of handlebar and footrest adjustment system. The focus is on a system that allows the rider's seating position to be adjusted to different requirements at the touch of a button. CFMoto is thus picking up on a concept that was previously pursued by Damon Motors, among others, but has not yet been implemented in series production.
In the world of traditional motorcycles, groundbreaking innovations are usually expected from established manufacturers or specialized development departments. But this time, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is causing a stir: The university's Electric Vehicle Team (EVT) has created a unique motorcycle with a hydrogen fuel cell that is expected to deliver around 300 hp (220 kW). The aim of the project is to explore new possibilities for emission-free mobility on two wheels and to make the results available as an open research platform.
Honda continues to develop alternative transmission technologies. New patent documents filed with the Japan Patent Office (JPO) show the well-known Honda CB1000R with the E-Clutch system. This semi-automatic clutch solution makes motorcycling more accessible to newcomers and those returning to the sport, as the clutch operation is electronic and does not require a conventional clutch lever.
Honda is continuing its move toward automated clutch technologies and expanding its range of E-Clutch models. Following on from the already familiar CBR650R, CB650R, and Rebel 250 models, the CL250 and Rebel 250 will also be equipped with the E-Clutch in future. Although these two models are not currently available in Europe, Honda's move underscores the importance the manufacturer attaches to automated clutches.