Sitting here in front of the computer, with the calendar inching its way closer to a brand-new year, it seems like a good time to take one last look back on 2024 before we turn our attention to 2025.
Top news story of 2024: KTM
As 2024 comes to a close, the Austrian manufacturer’s successes of the last 12 months, have been overshadowed by financial uncertainty surrounding the company. Missed earning targets and revised financial guidance culminated with the November announcement that KTM AG had applied for, and subsequently received, court-ordered creditor protection for a 90-day period to allow the company to search for a solution for refinancing requirements that have been described as being in the “three-digit million range.”
While there is no shortage of rumours and speculation as to potential changes in the company’s ownership, operating structure and subsidiaries, the one thing that is for sure is that the KTM that emerges from creditor protection will look completely different than the 2024 version.
Favourite Race of 2024:
Whether you were following road racing, off-road, motocross or enduro, 2024 was an exceptional year for racing on each of the global, national and regional stages with multiple winners, breakout performances and championships going down to the wire.
Although some might find it difficult to pick just one race as a favourite, for me the obvious choice is Torin Collins’ Sunday afternoon CSBK Pro Superbike battle with 2021 CSBK Champion Alex Dumas at Edmonton’s Rad Torque Raceway. Making the most of his wildcard appearance between scheduled MotoAmerica rounds, Collins left it all on the track in this epic showdown, which saw him fight for and eventually take the lead enroute to his maiden CSBK win and one that will remain in the memories of racing fans for years to come.
Click here for Inside Motorcycles’ photo gallery of the 2024 Edmonton CSBK round.
Although neither Collins or Dumas have confirmed their plans for 2025, wherever these talented young racers compete, it will be exciting to watch.
Favourite Product of 2024: Rabaconda Street Bike Tire Changer
Simply stated, the arrival of the Rabaconda Street Tire Changer was a game changer. This solidly-constructed and well-thought-out product makes it easy for literally anyone to change tires from the comfort of their own garage, trackside or, thanks to it’s compact design, at a friend’s house.
Just think of all the accessories and gear you can buy with the money you will save on tire changes.
Visit www.rabaconda.com for more information.
IM’s review of the Rabaconda Street Bike Tire Changer.
2024 Bike of the Year: Royal Enfield Himalayan 450
If you had told me even 12 months ago that a Royal Enfield would be named as Inside Motorcycles Bike of the Year for 2024, I would not have believed you. This all changed in July with the opportunity to participate in the North American launch of the all-new Himalayan 450.
Building on the legacy of the company’s original Himalayan model, this latest iteration incorporates the latest advancements from Royal Enfield’s UK Technology Centre while remaining true to the culture of “pure motorcycling” that has been developed over 124 years of Royal Enfield.
By the end of a full day of on- and off-road riding on the amazing roads and trails surrounding Heber City, UT, I was not only hooked on the Himalayan 450, but also inspired to do more dual-sport riding. This probably shouldn’t have been a surprise as inspiring riders is what Royal Enfield does best and what makes the Himalayan 450 stand out as our choice for 2024 Bike of the Year. Add in a starting MSRP of $7,699 and the Himalayan 450 is destined to become a success on showroom floors.
Visit www.royalenfield.com/ca to experience the complete Royal Enfield lineup.
Click here for IM’s full review of the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450.
The Bike We Can’t Wait to Ride in 2025: Can-Am Electric Motorcycles
The return of Canada’s BRP Can-Am to the production of motorcycles is a major milestone in itself. Of course, the fact that the two available models (the urban-focused Pulse and the dual-sport Origin) are 100% electric powered makes these the must-ride motorcycles of 2025.
With production models now rolling out of company’s assembly plant, the team at IM is excited to experience the combination of the latest EV technology and Can-Am’s return to the world of two-wheels.
Click here for more information from BRP Can-Am.
What’s Next?:
This has been an exciting year for Inside Motorcycles and 2025 promises to be our best yet. Taking advantage of the expanded formats available on our new all-digital platform, we have epic adventures and touring stories planned along with more of the motorcycle and product reviews you have come to expect from Inside Motorcycles. For 2025, our current contributors along with some returning names and a few new ones will be on hand to entertain, engage and inform as Inside Motorcycles continues to be Canada’s Source for Motorcycle News.
Wishing you a Happy New Year and all the best for 2025,
Patrick
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