It was an exciting day when Michael Arrington had his 12 foot long, nearly 2,000 lb toolbox delivered by flatbed truck to TTRNO’s downtown location.  It meant a few things; New Orleans’ premier European motorcycle shop was expanding, we’ve got a guy who’s SERIOUS about having the right tool for every job, and most importantly we now have a complete team of the biggest heavy hitters in the motorcycle performance world.  

Michael is no stranger to making 2 wheels fast.  With years of experience designing and building race engines for companies like S&S (this particular engine in the Confederate Hellcat and Wraith) Hoban Brothers and KWS Motorsports to name a few.   Engine blueprinting, cam degreeing, porting, polishing, exhaust design and dyno tuning are just a few things he excels at.   We couldn’t possibly forget about his ability to set up chassis geometry, tune suspension, electrical wiring, diagnosis, even custom work.  What makes Michael the best in the business is his immense attention to detail and the pride he takes in every job that rolls on his lift.  When Michael works on a bike it’s a big deal and to have such a talented force in the crescent city is a great advantage we have over other areas.

Next time you’re at TTRNO, come into the service department and shake the hand of the Gulf South’s greatest tech; or give him a hug, he’s a big ol’ teddy bear!

With some major developments the 2013 model takes the Daytona to a new high. A redesigned engine giving improved performance and an extended rev range, plus major chassis revisions including a new frame and repositioned silencer are among the elements that keep the Daytona ahead of the competition. Redesigned, sharper bodywork complete this impressive package.

The Daytona range features an R model which has a number of enhanced specification components including Öhlins TTX rear suspension and NIX30 inverted forks, providing the R with a wide range of adjustability. Additionally the R features lighter Brembo Monobloc calipers giving precise and powerful stopping. On the Daytona R switchable ABS is standard as is a quick-shift gear change.

Daytona 675: Features and Benefits

• Headlights are no longer “projector” style lights. Previous lights had overall good lateral lighting distance, but failed to achieve a wider projection. New headlamps achieve both

• Air intake is increased significantly. Increased opening allows for greater intake, which thus contributes to the increased performance of the new engine.

• With a stronger one-piece cylinder block, wider pistons and lighter titanium inlet valves the new engine has increased power, torque and rev range up to 14,400 RPM. This provides the rider with higher performance and greater flexibility

• All new lightweight twin spar frame on the new 2013 model gives the bike lighter weight and greater agility

• With a repositioned silencer, the bike has improved handling and agility. The silencer is positioned lower and closer to the engine of the bike, improving the weight distribution significantly

• The 2013 Daytona features a newly designed clutch. With a slip/assist design the clutch is now lighter to operate but also offers the rider more bike control, such as preventing the rear wheel from hopping under heavy braking

By Matt Nomey

There’s no better, faster way to get around town during Mardi Gras than on a scooter. Parking on the parade route and getting from Zulu to St. Anne and running back home to use your own bathroom is suddenly a posibility. Here are some dos & don’ts while scootering through Carnival.

Do decorate your bike safely. Cable ties and magnets are good, flowy scarves, dangling beads and masking tape are bad. Extra lights and reflective stickers can only help you be more visible to all the especially crazy drivers during this time.  

Don’t do Jello shots or drink anything that will impair you operating your scooter safely. You don’t want to spend Mardi Gras in the hospital OR O.P.P! Besides, your lack-of-hungover self will thank you the next day. Make sure your passenger is at least able to remain upright for the duration of your ride as well.

Do carry an extra helmet. You never know who you might run into that you might have the privilege of giving a ride to. I hear Beyoncé is in town...

Don’t park just anywhere. Tuck in tight up against a building and don’t block the sidewalk, wheelchair access, or even a bicycle rack. In the Quarter, I like to park by the fence at the Mint (where I have been ticketed twice), in front of a vacant building, or behind the Courthouse on Royal. But even if you get a $20 ticket, it’s still better than waiting for a cab or walking, right? Here’s a link to the city’s parking guide, although there’s no mention of scooters or motorcycles.
http://new.nola.gov/mayor/press-releases/2013/20130123-city-announces-2013-mardi-gras-enforcemen/

Don’t be afraid to hop on I-90 to get in “the box”. I’ve done it on a 150cc Vespa while my passenger was eating a slice of pizza - it goes slow. Take Baronne down past Howard Ave, turn left to go up on I-90, stay in the right lane, then immediately exit at Tchoupitoulas. Voilà, you’re in the box.

Do enjoy the freedom to get away from the craziness and take a nice quiet ride along the lakefront.

Have fun out there and show off your bike. Tell all your admirers that they wish they would have gone to the Transportation Revolution before Carnival!

By Matt Nomey, Motorbike Sales Specialist at TTRNO

What a wonderful experience I had the other weekend. The MSF course really helped me out as a returning rider, but it can easily make any non-rider so much better. For starters, this course is a great way to get the old muscle memory back from being out of riding for a few years. All it took was a couple of days of riding and doing course work to get back into the swing of things, and it really made me remember how much I love riding. In the end, the course brought me, personally, three meaningful things

First, The MSF course is very intensive. By that at mean it’s concentrated not exhausting. It covers every aspect of the riding experience from the basics (starting and mounting a bike) to the all wonderful act of counter steering. The instructors, more importantly Rodney our main teacher, really left no stone unturned with any aspect of riding. They really wanted us to get the full scope of what it takes to be aware of everything going on when on a bike.

Second, MSF is pragmatic. This course is not very fanciful when it comes to riding. You get very realistic examples, and all the training courses are very realistic to the style of driving you will be doing on the road. Your days are split for two days with the early morning being in a classroom and the afternoons on the riding course. Just the concept of turning into a curve for example is taken in a very approachable method. In the classroom, you see plenty of videos that act as a walk through for you. On the riding range, your instructor will show you a demo himself then you go through and complete the task. It’s simple as that. 

Finally, and most important, I had a blast. I got to meet some pretty awesome people, and really got to share my experiences as a previous rider as well as hear from them about their expectations for the road. To me, this was the best part about the course. I’m always taking in other people’s knowledge and experiences to make myself better at the things I do, and it works both ways too.  

In closing there are really a few things to take away from all this talk. If you’re a beginner rider, takes this course. That little thing-a-ma-jig figure-eight test they do at the DMV is a joke. California, Texas, and I believe also Florida use the MSF as their standard to get an endorsement. There’s a reason for that. It makes you a better rider. PERIOD.  Second, if you’re offering the excuse, “Oh man I’ve been riding for years I’m all good.” Well I know that after riding previously I definitely got into bad habits. This helps really get you back out of anything negatively habitual.

Current riders --- and I’m talking to everybody. Cruisers, Track guys. Tourers. Urban riders --- don’t need to take the Basic course. They have the Advanced Rider Course which is consistently available for experienced riders to take their own bike out and really hone their skills. It’s perfect and it makes you better at recognizing things that affect you while on the road. I hope everyone takes something away from my experience, and make sure to swing by or email me and tell me about your experience. I’m always open to hear a story.

Sincerely,

Matt Nomey
Motorbike Sales Specialist
The Transportation Revolution

You may have a classy new motorcycle, but if you're riding in crappy riding gear (or no gear!), you look like an idiot (or worse, a squid!).  I'm sorry, but that's the truth!  Good riding gear is a crucial accessory to your bike.  Wearing gear shouldn't be a chore to put on, but it is if your stuff doesn't fit well or cramps your style.  

Good riding gear actually enhances the riding experience by keeping you more comfortable than you would otherwise be without it.  These days, products have liner systems to specifically address a broad range of changing weather conditions from extreme heat to freezing cold. I think that maybe some of you just haven't experienced quality gear yet. Once you do, you will realize it is even more important than the bike because it affects what you can do on it, what conditions you can comfortably and safely ride in.

Do we even need to mention the safety benefits here?  Nobody wears full protection all the time, but you NEED to be wearing as much as you can in a given situation. This means helmet, gloves, mesh jacket and riding shoes in most inner-city situations. If you are going out on a ride outside of the city, you should shoot for helmet, jacket, gloves, boots and pants.  The street is the most dangerous place to ride (as compared to the track, because of so many uncontrollable variables like moms on cell-phones in SUVs turning in front of you). You need to be acutely aware of what parts of your body you are leaving vulnerable.

The bottom line is that whether it comes to style or protection, pairing inadequate gear, or nothing, with your Triumph or Ducati is simply UNACCEPTABLE.  And if the pavement doesn't stop you, then the fashion police will.  In this article I'm now going to present to you some of my favorite pieces of new 2013 REV'IT gear that I ordered for YOU for the coming spring.

Galactic Leather Jacket

We have been selling REV'IT's Ignition 2. This builds upon the success of that jacket and takes it in a more sporty direction, at the same price point of $499.  Here, you have full leather in all the impact areas with a mesh chest and stretch arms with a race-style cuff. The liner is a waterproof/windproof hydratex liner with no thermal warmer.  And, perhaps best of all it comes in white to keep you cool in the summer heat!  I love the simplicity of this jacket as compared to the Ignition 2, especially in the cuffs and liner system. It's offering excellent hot weather performance in a safe, sporty package, perfect for your Monster, Superbike, Street Triple or Daytona.

Levante Textile Jacket 

Here is the answer for all of you everyday riders, commuters and tourers who want a highly perforated jacket with more touring functionality. This jacket has an extremely breatheable outer shell with tons of mesh, but also includes a waterproof/windproof hydratex liner and a thermal liner. The cut is 5/8, which will go down a little further than the typical waistline cut. At $299, this is a hell of a lot of functionality in a jacket that was practically designed for the deep south climate. 

Stellar Leather Jacket

Chevron Summer Gloves

A refined, sporty perforated leather glove for $109. This is the best bet to keep your hands cool and protected on a sportbike next summer.

This year at EICMA, our favorite manufacturers released information on new upcoming models for 2013. We are accepting deposits on all upcoming models. 

2013 Ducati Hypermotard

 The new Hypermotard offers all the power of a new generation 110 HP Testastretta 11° engine with the advanced technology of Riding Modes, Power Modes and the Ducati Safety Pack. Don't put the brakes on your energy: total control and extreme versatility allow you to attack any road in Hyper style.
$11,995

2013 Ducati Hypermotard SP

A raised set-up, forged Marchesini rims, fully adjustable suspensions with an ultralight Marzocchi aluminium yoke and Öhlins rear shock absorber for an extraordinary dry weight of 171 kg. ABS and Ducati Traction Control as standard, so you can concentrate on having a good time. And the incredible Ducati Corse livery underlines the fact that the Hypermotard SP is an uncompromisingly sporty bike, ready to face any challenge.
$14,695 

2013 Ducati Hyperstrada

The Hyperstrada extends the hypermotard concept to fascinating new horizons. ABS, DTC, windshield, side bags, dedicated ergonomics and a series of touring features offering a new riding experience for everyone who loves curves, even when they're far away from home.
Hyperstrada: broaden the horizons of your emotions.
$13,295

2013 Ducati 1199 Panigale R

Unbelievable performance and technological excellence proclaim this the new queen of the Superbike family. Born of the world of competitive racing, the 1199 Panigale R is an exclusive and treasured interpretation of our passion for the racetrack: titanium piston rods, carbon fibre bodywork, Ducati Performance racing exhaust and livery inspired by Ducati Corse. Perfection was never so close.
$29,995

2013 Ducati Diavel Strada

The exuberance of the Diavel meets maximum comfort. Innovative solutions and dedicated accessories - side bags, windshield, new seat and raised handlebars - make the Diavel Strada ideal to dominate the asphalt on the open road. 
$19,495

Click here for our previous post on the new Multistrada models

2013 Triumph Daytona 675

The previous Daytona 675 certainly is a tough act to follow. So just how did we improve on it? The all-new triple motor is more compact, and more powerful, which allowed us to re-design the frame to be smaller, lighter and narrower than before. That, combined with a bigger airbox, new swingarm, lighter wheels and new, sharper, bodywork means we’ve succeeded in making the new Daytona 675 more agile, more responsive, and more forgiving than ever before.
$11,599 - Availal

2013 Triumph Daytona 675R

In the Daytona 675R, we’ve made exceptional the new standard. This is a true track day tool. Focused. Committed. And in the right hands, untouchable. The storming new triple motor delivers even more power all the way through to 14,400 rpm redline. The new frame geometry, mass centralisation and race-derived suspension enables razor sharp handling and confidence-inspiring feedback. Add brembo brakes, a quickshifter, carbon trim and some subtle styling details and you know you’re riding a true thoroughbred motorcycle.
$13,499 

2013 Triumph Street Triple (details released earlier this year)

This truly impressive middleweight street motorcycle has been acclaimed by critics around the world. The all-new 2013 model is even punchier, better balanced and more exhilarating.

The new chassis has a more dynamic specification, giving you agility and precision while keeping you planted, and better weight distribution and geometry give you an athletic, responsive ride.

The heart of the Street Triple is the throbbing 675cc triple, delivering 106PS and 68Nm of torque. It’s so good you’ll have trouble believing its only 675cc. The torque and sound of the liquid cooled 12 valve triple, combined with a close ratio six speed gearbox produce an exciting ride, and the under-engine silencer helps lower the centre gravity and improve handling.

It looks even better too, with stylish brushed metal finishes, aggressive headlights and a choice of colored coded styling accessories complementing the dark powder coated engines and frames.

$9,399

2013 Triumph Street Triple R (details released earlier this year)

Triumph’s engineers have honed this roadster to perfection, giving it supersport specification, suspension and brakes. With power, torque and even more excitement, this is the most fun you can have on two wheels.

Its lightweight chassis is even more dynamic, delivering greater levels of agility and precision while keeping you firmly planted. Fitted with additional adjustable front forks, an RSU with both pre-load and damping adjustment the Street Triple R offers renowned ride quality, handling and control.

The liquid cooled 12 valve triple, combined with a close ratio six speed gearbox produce an exhilarating ride, and the under-engine silencer helps lower the centre gravity and improve handling. The Nissin radial 4-piston brakes are built to match the bike’s high performance, coping easily with higher speed and rapid deceleration. And the Street Triple R features state-of-the-art Anti-Lock Brakes as standard that can cope with even the hardest braking. And because the ABS system is switchable, it can be easily deactivated whenever necessary via the instrument panel – it will then automatically re-activate when the motorbike is re-started.

The Street Triple R has distinctive good looks too, with stylish brushed metal finishes, aggressive headlights and a choice of colours complimenting the dark powder coated engine and the telltale red rear sub frame, red side radiator cowls, and red pin stripe detailing to the wheels.

The Street Triple R is not a subtle motorbike. It’s a bike with unmistakable attitude, for riders who want to take it to the max.
$9,999

 2013 Vespa 946

Winner of Asphalt and Rubber's "Best In Show" (beating all the motorcycles), the Vespa 946 is so distinctive it almost doesn’t look like something one can ride. It looks like it belongs at the Museum of Modern Art or the Guggenheim. Rest assured this work of art is as functional as it is beautiful. In traditional Vespa fashion, the 946 maintains the steel monocoque frame and includes aluminum elements for weight reduction and style points. The handlebar, saddle support, side panels and front mudguard are all crafted from aluminum.

For maximum safety, the 946 comes with ABS and the ASR electronic traction control. Front and rear disc brakes assuredly stop large 12-inch wheels.

The Vespa 946 also respects the environment with a 125cc three valve, electronically injected engine. The North American version will most likely come with a 150cc three valve motor but this has not been confirmed as of yet. Fuel consumption and emissions are incredibly low in this state of the art scooter. To top it all off the 946 comes with an LED headlight and turn indicators. The full LCD dashboard completes the stylish, highly technological look.
Pricing TBD

"You know “that guy” (or “that girl”)! They’re the one at the gathering point on Sunday morning, wheelieing past the parking lot. They’re the one talking about the twisty road that leads there as though it is their own personal racetrack. You see them crossing the double-yellow line in a blind corner, utterly unable to take any evasive action if another vehicle were to approach from the other direction. You don’t want to be that rider. If you want to ride fast, there’s no excuse for not taking it to the track anymore." -Road Racing World

Some of you may have been out watching the AMA Big Kahuna race. Now, it's time to experience the track for yourself. IF YOU RIDE A STREET BIKE OF ANY TYPE, THEN YOU WOULD BENEFIT FROM DOING A TRACK DAY. If you ride a Bonneville, Thruxton, Tiger, Monster, Hypermotard, Streetfighter, Street Triple or Multistrada, as well as a sportbike, this means you.

A track day is not a race or competition. It is a safe, fun environment to hone your skills with other enthusiasts. The track is an environment free of SUVs, head on collisions, potholes, intersections, blind curves, drunk drivers, gravel in corners, and other distractions. It has pavement perfectly engineered for growing your skills and pushing your bike's limits.

"Common excuses street riders give for not taking their motorcycles to track days include:
• It costs too much (it’s cheaper than a big speeding ticket).
• I don’t have the right gear (you can rent or borrow it).
• My bike’s too old (no, it’s not).
• My bike’s too new (no, it’s not).
• I don’t have pit equipment (you don’t need it to try a track day).
• I don’t want to crash (you’re less likely to crash on the track than on the
street, if for no other reason than civilians in SUVs won’t be turning left in front of you!).
• I don’t have a way to haul my bike to the track (rent a truck or trailer or van or car-pool or ride it to the track).
• I don’t have enough experience (so, show up and get some).

Push those excuses out of your mind, go to a track day and you may end up asking yourself, “Why did I wait so long to try this?”" -Road Racing World

Think you need a dedicated sportbike to ride on the track? Think again. 

The Transportation Revolution is here to make your Track Day experience easy and enjoyable, whether it is your first or your fiftieth. Getting started is surprisingly easy; you just need a motorcycle, some blue painters tape, and access to proper gear. 

Your bike will need to pass tech inspection. Tires, brakes, etc will need to be in good condition and all lights reflectors and turn signals will need to be taped up. Liquid-cooled bikes will need their coolant replaced with water wetter to prevent slippery spills on the track. Required gear is a full face helmet, leather one or two-piece suit, full height boots and full gauntlet gloves. TTRNO RENTS SUITS, GLOVES AND BOOTS. Therefore, I know you have what you need to ride! 

TTRNO also has a trackside speedshop that provides our riders with complete support. In addition to the gear rental, we offer tires, track prep, valet services and an air conditioned lounge. If you can't trailer your bike to the track, then we can bring it there for you. More info on our Speedshop.

-Nick Napoda, TTRNO

With the exciting opening of NOLA Motorsports Park, the types of sporting events the City of New Orleans can host has expanded tremendously.  Until now motorsports has been the missing link in the type of events that can find a home in our city. This week New Orleans will make sporting history when the first professionally sanctioned motorcycle race is held in our town.  The Triumph Motorcycles, AMA Pro Road Racing, Big Kahuna Nationals will take place this weekend (October 5-7) as the finale of the AMA Pro Road Racing season.  This "Super Bowl" of motorcycle racing has signed a 3 year deal with New Orleans (with an option to extend for an additional 3 years.)  In addition, New Orleans will also play host to the AMA Pro Racing Championship Banquet following the race which draws a crowd of thousands. I don't think I need to go on about what a huge opportunity this will be for the city and the state for years to come.

Personally, I have been a fan of motorcycle racing for years and have attended countless races around the country.  Because of the freshness of the sport to this region and my passion for what will happen this weekend, I thought, especially as a local ambassador for the sport, that a survival guide to motorcycle racing would come in handy for all of you so without further adieu, here it goes:

Geico Motorcycle AMA Pro Road Racing is the premier motorcycle road racing series in North America.  It features the top professional motorcycle racers from America and beyond in four different classes:

National Guard SuperBike - 1000cc 4-cylinders & 1200cc twins with speeds in excess of 190mph

GoPro Daytona Sportbike - Middleweight displacement bikes with speed in excess of 175mph

Motorcycle Superstore Supersport - Middleweight displacement bikes featuring America’s up and coming stars

Vance & Hines XR1200 - Harley-Davidson spec class

What is going on during the weekend?

M1 Powersports’ & Triumph Motorcycles' Big Kahuna Nationals event’s motto is “Come for the Party and Stay for the Race”.  The weekend is not only about the exciting motorcycle racing, but the party that surrounds it.  Entertainment during the event will include live music from 10a to 1p on Saturday and Sunday, fan walk on Saturday & Sunday, Jason Britten & Eric Hoenshell’s Team No Limit Stunt Shows, fan laps,  Extreme Team 4x4 Monster Truck rides, stunt driver, Kevin Waterman’s,  attempt at driving the entire track on two wheels in his 3 series BMW sedan (with a chance for YOU to win a spot in the passenger seat), appearances by Roots of Music, Rolling Elvi, Pussy Footers, and 610 Stompers.

In addition to this great entertainment, there will be a variety of vendors and food options at the event.  NOLA Motorsports will also have two Kart rental tracks open for a little four wheeled fun.

What to bring?

This is expected to be a beautiful, sunny fall weekend so dress comfortably and wear sunscreen! I would also suggest purchasing your tickets in advance of the event.  This will help with delays entering the park (plus will get you a savings of $10 a ticket).  Tickets can be purchased in advance from TTRNO (insert link here) Great food and drink as well as grandstand seating will be available for the event.

When should you arrive?

Friday is the shortest day, and only includes practice and qualifying.  Saturday and Sunday include qualifying and racing.  If you are only attending one day, you will want to make it Saturday or Sunday.  Racing starts at 1:00pm on Saturday and 12:30pm on Sunday.  Also remember gates open at 7am on these days, so that give you plenty of time to get the lay of the land before the races begin.

I would suggest an early arrival, so you can take advantage of everything the event has to offer.

What does TTRNO have to offer during the weekend?

Triumph Motorcycles is the title sponsor of the weekend.  Triumph owners will be offered a FREE fan lap on the track at the end of Saturday and Sunday, Triumph only parking, and a full Triumph product display with clothing available for purchase next to our trackside Speed Shop.  If you have not had a chance to see our trackside Motorbike Speed Shop, this is your chance!  Our service area will be transformed into a Ducati apparel showroom. 

When does it all kick off?

The party gets started Thursday night from 6-9pm at Mardi Gras World. Join us for the biggest bike night New Orleans has seen! Attendance to the bike night is FREE and open to the public. 

Sunday July 29th at TTRNO Speed Shop: Can't make it to Monterey for the GP this weekend?  Have no fear, you can watch it LIVE in the comfort of the TTRNO Trackside Speed Shop at NOLA Motorsports Park.  The race begins at 5pm, door open at 4pm.  Sunday is also Krewe du Vroom, NOLA's monthly extreme car show.