Midway Review

Archive for October, 2009

At roughly 5.8 feet wide, 14.5 feet long, and 5 feet tall, the X1 measures several inches shorter, skinnier, and narrower than the X3 — the smallest SAV the automaker currently produces. In fact, the X1 is just over 1 inch wider, 3 inches longer and 4 inches taller than the 128i, with a wheelbase exactly 4 inches longer than the compact sports coupe. Needless to say, this is not a large vehicle.
The X1′s interior layout stays true to current BMW design theory, with well-placed controls and high-quality materials. Of course, small exterior dimensions translate to less interior space and subsequently, less cargo volume — a defining point for the segment. BMW says the X1 has 14.7 cubic-feet of usable cargo area with the rear seats upright. Rear seats folded flat, that figure increases to a more useable 47.3 cubic-feet.
BMW offers the X1 in either sDrive rear- or xDrive all-wheel drive versions, with a variety of engines to choose from. In Europe, the initial powertrain range will feature just a single gasoline engine for the all-wheel drive model — a range-topping 258-hp 3.0L straight-six. BMW claims a 6.8-sec 0 to 62 mph sprint for the gasoline-powered X1 xDrive28i, along with combined fuel economy of 25 mpg.
As with most of BMW’s lineup, the optional equipment list is quite extensive. Bi-Xenon headlamps are available, as is a panoramic sunroof, leather sports seats, a storage package, tow hitch, roof rails, automatic climate control, a Pro Logic 7 Hi-Fi stereo, BMW iDrive/navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rear-view backup camera.
BMW will bring its X1 to European showrooms this fall, while U.S. buyers will have to wait until early 2011 to park one in their garage. BMW has not finalized engine choices for the U.S. market, but it’s a good bet that the six-cylinder xDrive28i will be on the list, and a diesel-powered option is a possibility.

Buying a new motorbike is not always easy. There is a lot of information out there to steer car buyers in the right direction, but very little for the average motorbike buyer.

The first step to buying your new motorbike is deciding which type or model style is right for you. Most people group bikes into three distinct categories: Street, Dual-Purpose, and Off-Road. But, those who know bikes well understand that there are many more subcategories of motorbikes to contend with on the sales block.
The biggest mistake beginning riders often make when purchasing their first motorbike is settling for a low-budget street model (usually costing around $3,000 new). The problem is, these bikes have little power and can often sport an uncomfortable ride.
Touring Bikes are considered the Cadillac of motorbikes. Although still considered a street bike, this model is built for comfortable highway riding and long trips. Featuring a large powerful engine, touring bikes are very heavy and can be difficult to maneuver, especially at high speeds. These bikes are great for experienced riders and those who do a lot of highway riding. In-town and city riders should avoid them. Price too is a consideration when buying a touring bike since the prices for one of these models ranges form $10,000 to $20,000.
Cruisers are a more classic looking street bike and are by far the most common style of bike offered by today’s dealers. Style and comfort is key to the cruiser, which features large comfortable low-to-the ground seating. Another benefit to the cruiser style: the liberal use of chrome and loud exhaust note, two things many riders enjoy in their bikes. The cost for one of these can range form $5,000 to $20,000.
Sport Bikes are another sub category in the biking industry and are very popular among younger riders. Built for performance, sports bikes don’t offer much in the way of comfort or convenience. These lightweight bikes feature the ultimate in aerodynamics. Not good for long trips, sports bikes are meant for just that: sport. Although relatively inexpensive (ranging from $5,000 to $20,000), sports bikes often carry higher insurance premiums do to a perceived risk by insurance carriers
Standard Bikes aren’t as popular as they once were, but are still best for beginners since they are well-balanced, well powered and relatively light-weight which makes them easier to handle. Good for both city use as well as highway riding, standard bikes are a wonderful option for regular ordinary bikers who just want reliable transportation.
Motocross Bikes are meant solely for off-road use. They feature small engines and are extremely lightweight (usually weighing a mere 150-300 pounds). Used for recreational riding, motocross bikes are relatively inexpensive usually ranging in price form $1,500 to $6,000.
Dual-Purpose Bikes, on the other hand feature knobby tires and a high center of gravity that works well for off-roading, but still have headlights, turn-signals, and emissions control to make them street-legal.
As you can see, there are a lot of different kinds of bikes for a lot of different kinds of riders. The most important things to consider when choosing a bike of your own is:
-Your size and strength.
-Your experience and ability.
-Your budget.
Once you’ve narrowed your choices to the style you want most, it’s time to hit the showroom floor to see what your favorite manufacturer have.