With the R 1300 R “TITAN,” BMW Motorrad presents an extraordinary custom bike that stands out above all for its uncompromising motorsport inspiration and consistent design line. Behind this one-of-a-kind bike is a small team of passionate BMW employees who have channeled their passion for technology, design, and individuality into a vehicle that is as powerful as it is unique.
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).
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.
NEW MOTORCYCLES
Start-ups are constantly causing a stir in the electric motorcycle scene. Numerous companies announce innovative concepts, but many quickly disappear from the scene. Danish company Diem Motors wants to take a different approach with its first model, the X-01, focusing on sophisticated technology and unique design.
With the Papio X0-1, CFMoto is launching a fully faired minibike that clearly draws inspiration from the legendary Japanese sports bikes of the late 1980s. The design alone is reminiscent of icons such as the Suzuki GSX-R750, while the technical specifications and compact format reinterpret the class of small fun bikes.
Suzuki is generating excitement worldwide with its latest teaser campaign. Under the slogan “Meet the 8,” a mysterious hint about a new model was published on the international website on July 1. While official information is still scarce, there is already plenty of speculation – especially about possible new additions to the popular 800 model family.
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
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.
At the Circuit de la Sarthe, one of the most legendary race tracks in the world, the sound of combustion engines has dominated until now – whether at the traditional 24 Hours of Le Mans for cars or its motorcycle counterpart, the 24 Heures Motos. But a team of students from the Sigma Engineering School in Clermont-Ferrand wants to change that and break new ground with an electric motorcycle.
The Sachsenring is preparing for the highlight of the year: From July 11 to 13, 2025, MotoGP will be hosting the Liqui Moly Motorcycle Grand Prix Germany at the traditional race track in Saxony. Last year, the event attracted over 250,000 visitors, making it the largest single sporting event in Germany. Organizing this major event requires a logistical masterpiece that begins weeks before the first practice run.
With the final and unrestricted approval of the European Commission, Liberty Media's acquisition of MotoGP and WorldSBK is nearing completion. The company, which has already had a significant influence on the development of Formula 1, will hold a majority stake in both racing series in the future.
TECHNOLOGY
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.
Yamaha is apparently working on a comprehensive overhaul of the aerodynamics for its super sports bikes, relying on technology that has previously been used primarily in automotive engineering. A new patent for the Yamaha R1 shows active cooling air outlets on the side fairings for the first time, which open or close automatically depending on various parameters. This system is designed to help reduce drag and improve both performance and emissions.
Rubber is a key material in vehicle construction. Whether tires, bushings, seals, or handles—almost every motorcycle part requires elastic components that must withstand heavy loads in everyday use. The problem: Over time, aging and stress cause cracks to form, which can lead to the failure of individual components. This is a known weak point, especially for frequently used parts such as hoses, chassis seals, and rubber bearings.