Scenic 2 Beta Progress • Dolomites • Best Custom Motorcycles • Comeback of a prominent touring bike • Garmin Instinct • Waterproof Boots
Aug 16, 2019
INTRODUCTION
The trip itself was exhausting, but I jumped at the opportunity to rent a car for the weekend, and explore the stunning Isle of Skye on the Scottish West Coast. Despite the sometimes tiny roads without opportunity to overtake, and treacherous curves, Skye is an incredible destination for more experienced riders. I have never felt so unhappy behind the wheel of a rental car…
This week’s Moto Intel Report, Guido gives an update on the Scenic 2 Beta Test, shares a video on the beautiful Italian Dolomites and discusses a rumour about the comeback of a prominent touring motorcycle. Jasper takes a detour to the best custom motorcycles and looks into some waterproof boots, while I keep time!
Jasper, Tom & Guido
EPIC RIDES
Passo Gardena • Dolomites • Italy
Above video is created by one of Scenic’s avid users, who also happens to be a professional videographer. Definitely worth seeing if you want to get an idea on what to expect from the Dolomites.
Guido
MOTORCYCLES
Best Custom Motorcycles
Jasper
SCENIC 2 BETA TEST
Progress Report
Scenic’s big update, Scenic 2, has been in beta test for the past few weeks. Feedback of the beta testers is very positive. Of course there are bugs and enhancement requests, but no ‘Show Stoppers’. If you’d like to get a preview of Scenic 2, have a look at the video I shared in the previous MIR.
I’m opening up the Beta for more testers now. If you are interested in helping me find bugs, please leave your email here. There are some things you should know before participating, so read the form carefully. Beta Spots are limited, so I might not be able to accept everyone. Just so you know.
Scenic 2 will be available as a regular update through the App Store mid September. All your purchases will stay in tact and all your data, routes, trips, etc. will migrate automatically too.
Guido
MOTORCYCLE GADGETS
Garmin Instict
The Garmin has loads of functionalities and comes in at $265. It monitors heart rate, activity and even stress levels. The watch has a rugged design, and is built to US military standard 810G (it’s shock and water-proof till 100 meters)… and oh yea, it also measures time and date.
My only problem with the Garmin is the battery life – my colleague who wears one a daily basis isn’t complaining too much, but 10-14 days isn’t great, compared to its competitors. Get it on Amazon.
Tom
MOTORCYCLE RUMOURS
The comeback of a prominent touring motorcycle
Now, rumour has it that Honda wants to bring back the mid-sized touring idea, this time based around the Africa Twin engine, also providing a DCT version. After the ST1300 was discontinued in 2012, this would once again position a more affordable and nimble touring model before its celebrated Gold Wing. I’ll definitely keep my eye out for this. Here’s more info on the rumour.
Guido
MOTORCYCLE GEAR
TCX Hero Waterproof Boots
Jasper
PIC OF THE WEEK
Riding on clouds
As lots of you are/were on longer trips for summer holidays, many pics were sent in, making it particularly hard to choose one for the MIR this week. In the end I chose this one as it’s a bit different from the typical scenic view. It was sent in by Jo. It’s on top of Furka Pass at 2429 meters / almost 8000 feet above sea level, 10 meters / 33 feet above the clouds :). Definitely also have a look at all the other pics. Some beautiful shots in there.
What’s your most beautiful / funny / crazy motorcycle pic? Share it with us and it might be featured in the next Moto Intel Report. Here you can find al submitted pics.
