Gear: LS2 Helmets present the new-for-2019 Challenger FF327

Sino-Spanish manufacturer LS2 Helmets (their head office and R&D centre are located on the outskirts of Barcelona) have a few new products in their lineup for 2019. Amongst them is the Challenger FF327.

This new flagship of LS2's range of touring helmets is aimed at bridging the gap between an aggressive sport-/track-oriented lid and a more subdued "daily rider" helmet. With that in mind it's not surprising to see that the design team based near the Catalan capital city have borrowed a fair few styling cues from their own Arrow C Evo helmet, while adding elements, such as the small spoiler towards the rear of the helmet that, if anything, make it even more aggressive to look at than the sleekly-styled Arrow Evo. This is definitely a lid aimed fair and square at sports roadster riders who want sports style and practicality in the same package.

Indian announce new Chief, Springfield and Roadmaster for 2019

Meanwhile, in Spirit Lake, Iowa... Indian Motorcycle have announced that they are rolling out new technology on the 2019 Chief, Springfield and Roadmaster models, as well as new paint options for the Dark Horse range.

Selectable Rider Modes

On the new 2019 models, riders will be able to choose between three rider modes: Tour, Standard and Sport. Tour mode smooths out the throttle response for a more relaxed cruising experience. Standard mode will provide a crisper throttle response - presumably identical to that of current models. Finally, Sport mode provides a much sharper and more immediate throttle response for more spirited riding, clean getaways from traffic lights and to ensure decisive overtaking. Rider will be able to switch from one mode to another on the fly.

New Harley-Davidson FXDR power-cruiser and CVO Touring bikes for 2019

It never rains but it pours. While everybody was still buzzing with the news regarding the bikes that Harley-Davidson intend to roll out over the next couple of years, the Motor Company decided to announce more new models, this time for 2019. This way, please.

FXDR 114

First stop is Harley-Davidson's new FXDR 114, a performance-oriented power-cruiser. Using the new Softail chassis, the FXDR 114 uses the 114 ci (1868 cc) Milwaukee Eight engine equipped with four-valve desmo heads, a high-flow forward-facing airbox with a performance-inspired air filter and a two-into-one sports exhaust. Power output is around the 90 HP mark, with 119 lb/ft of torque. Power is transmitted to the rear wheel via a six-speed 'box and belt drive. The engine sits in a Softail frame with an aluminium subframe to keep the weight down. Also in a bid to reduce unsprung weight, the characteristic steel Softail swinging-arm has been replaced with a sportsbike-style aluminium unit, which saves a claimed 4.62 kg. The weight-saving exercise continues with the bodywork, made out of composite materials, and aluminium cast wheels (19" front, 18" lenticular rear).