WIN A 2015 VICTORY GUNNER PLUS A TRIP TO MEET THE NESS FAMILY TO HAVE IT PERSONALLY CUSTOMIZED

Victory Announces the Custom Ness Sweepstakes Picture this: you and Arlen Ness, hanging out at the shop, having a beer and customizing your brand new 2015 Victory Gunner. Sound like a dream? With the Victory Custom Ness Sweepstakes, it’s a dream that will become a reality for one lucky winner. Victory is going over the top to celebrate their riders, by offering up the chance to not only win a new Gunner, but to also meet Arlen, Cory, and Zach Ness in California, and have the bike personally customized. No catch, no strings – just a dream opportunity Victory is excited to make available to one very lucky motorcycle enthusiast. Enter to win the Custom Ness Sweepstakes February 8 – March 26 at Victorymotorcycles.com. One lucky winner gets a new 2015 Victory Gunner, and up to $5000 in parts to have it personally customized by the Ness Family. In addition, the winner will receive a 3 day/2 night trip to Dublin, California, where they’ll meet Arlen, Cory, and Zach Ness. Together, they’ll craft a new custom Gunner with one of the best-known, hottest bike-building teams in the world of custom motorcycles. The new 2015 Victory Gunner is Victory’s hottest new bike. It’s the bobber without comprise, boasting a powerful 106ci V-twin on a full-size chassis, a lowered seat height, and lean-angle engineering that makes it ride like no other bobber currently on the market. “I don’t know a biker alive who doesn’t love to trick out their bike. And the Ness Family? Come on! These guys are legends in customization,” says Steve Menneto, VP-Motorcycles at Victory Motorcycles. “Offering up a new Gunner and the chance to get to spend time with the Ness’s, and then have the bike personally customized – this is as cool as it gets.” Arlen Ness also commented, “The new Gunner is already a beautiful bike; this is gonna really be a fun one to work on. Victory makes amazing bikes, and the Gunner absolutely holds up to the brand’s standards. Let’s get this thing started; we’re ready to meet the winner of the Custom Ness Sweepstakes!” The Victory Custom Ness Sweepstakes is open to consumers February 8th at Victorymotorcycles.com. Must be 18 to enter, no purchase necessary. For complete details, visit victorymotorcycles.com. As read on: http://www.hotbikeweb.com/events/win-2015-victory-gunner

2014 Polaris Sportsman Ace 4x4 - First Drive

A perfect entry-level vehicle The all-new Polaris Sportsman ACE is the perfect combination of an ATV and UTV. It’s similar in size to a 4x4 quad and rides almost exactly like the new Polaris Sportsman 570 4x4, but it’s equipped with a single bucket seat, steering wheel, and a roll cage that provides a safe platform for newbies to the sport. This easy-to-use, nimble machine has the easiest learning curve of any ATV or UTV we’ve ever tested. If you can drive a car, you’ll feel right at home in the ACE. INNOVATIVE & COMFORTABLE The Sportsman ACE is covered by a ROPS (Roll Over Protection System) cab frame that’s similar to the roll cages found on the RZR lineup, and offers an ergonomically friendly cockpit that’s both easy to ingress and egress for small or large riders. The secure, high-backed, adjustable bucket seat is paired with an adjustable steering wheel. It’s also equipped with a three-point seat belt and has side bolsters to keep the operator properly positioned in the center of the machine. The steering wheel offers 3.5 inches of tilt adjustment, and the driver’s seat slides back and forth by 4 inches to customize the fit for the rider. There is an integrated dead pedal for your left foot to rest on and an integrated heel pocket for your right foot with an easy reach for both the gas and brake pedals. You’re also kept in via dual side nets that feature a metal rod to easily secure for clipping and positioning the nets to the back of the vehicle while exiting. This net system is sure to be replaced by more stylish aftermarket door designs. TRAIL-READY WIDTH A huge selling point for the ACE is its trail-capable and easily-transportable 48-inch width, which means it can take on nearly every OHV trail in the country, since many ATV trails are limited to a width of 50 inches. It will also fit in the back of a full-size pickup truck. A nice feature, since most side-by-sides require the added costs of a trailer. To ensure a low center of gravity, Polaris positioned all the major components, including the driver, centralized between the four wheels for an incredibly responsive ride. Along with this low center of gravity, the Sportsman ACE boasts 10.25 inches of ground clearance and 9.5 inches of rear travel due to its fully independent rear suspension (IRS) outfitted with performance, twin tube shocks featuring adjustable preload. The front of the ACE features a MacPherson strut setup with just over 8 inches of wheel travel. Veteran ATV riders will feel funny in the ACE, at first, but after only a few miles, you’re hit with an added sense of confidence and security; the same feeling that has helped to make side-by-sides the fastest-growing powersports industry. Beginner to expert riders will appreciate the ACE’s comfortable ride and nimble handling characteristics. The suspension feels stiff, compared to standard Sportsman ATVs, but it soaked up the rough, rocky test loop and was difficult to bottom out. The machine felt stable, even around quick, 90-degree corners and even at top speeds your always feel in control. 32-HP PROSTAR POWERPLANT The Sportsman ACE 4x4 is equipped with a new Polaris ProStar Electronic Fuel-Injected powerplant. It’s a dual-overhead-cam, single-cylinder, four-stroke design that is similar to the 570 RZR and Sportsman, which Polaris released last year. Its displacement is in the sub-400cc category, and it packs a solid 32 hp with a top speed of 45 mph, perfect for the entry-level to intermediate rider. It didn’t hit hard out of the hole, but its power range is wide and very easy to adjust to. This is the perfect powerplant for the rookie trail enthusiast. The motor provided plenty of excitement, the power doesn’t overwhelm or scare, and it’ll provide an excellent platform for learning. The transmission is identical to the 570 RZR’s and provides the driver with the option of both high and low range, neutral, reverse, and a park mode that acts as the emergency brake. In high, the 32-hp ProStar pulled the 850-pound ACE up and over every obstacle on our technical, 50-inch-wide test loop. We used Low range for ascending and descending the steeper trails, and we powered through deep ruts, mud holes, and rock gardens without so much as a scent from the CVT. The Sportsman ACE is equipped with the same On-Demand True All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system found on all Polaris ATVs and UTVs. The system eliminates the guesswork by automatically engaging AWD when you need it and then reverts back to two-wheel drive automatically when the AWD is no longer needed. It would be great to have a locking front differential, but this On-Demand system is used and loved by an outstanding number of enthusiasts. Braking is solid, thanks to four-wheel hydraulic discs with dual-bore front calipers, and the little ACE rides on Carlisle 489 tires, mounted on stamped steel wheels, that provide great traction on most terrains. We put a good pounding on these meats and didn’t come to close to a flat. Storage on the Sportsman ACE is exceptional with its integrated 2.8-gallon semi-dry, front storage compartment and a high-capacity Lock & Ride cargo box with rack extenders and rear tie-down rails that also accepts the accessory Lock & Ride cargo box for additional dry storage. The vehicle can carry up to 575 pounds of gear and can tow up to 1,500 pounds. The ACE is also pre-wired for the installation of a winch with up to 3,500 pounds of capacity, and Polaris offers more than 25 accessories for the Sportsman, including doors, winches, cabs, and storage to suit their driver’s needs. The Sportsman ACE is available in White Lightning and will be in dealerships in February. ATV or UTV? Like it or not, these UTVs are transitioning from a hit fad to the future of ATVing. Since the release of the original RZR 800 seven years ago, Polaris has been the leading UTV manufacturer of such machines, and for $7,499, the Polaris Sportsman ACE is sure to be a hit for both beginners and experts alike. What’s next for Polaris? You can expect the company to follow up with more single-seat and steering-wheel-equipped models from the entry-level ACE all the way up to a mind-blowing 1,000cc rocket ship. Stay tuned. 1401 polaris sportsman ace 4x4 Spec Chart 2014 Polaris Sportsman ACE 4x4 Price: $7499 Engine type: 32-hp ProStar, 4-stroke, DOHC single cylinder Fuel system: Electronic fuel injection Starting system: Electric Drivetrain Drive system: On-Demand True AWD/2WD Transmission: Automatic PVT with P/R/N/L/H; shaft Suspension (Type/Travel) Front: MacPherson strut/8.2” Rear: IRS/9.5” Tires/Wheels Front: 25x8-12/489 Rear: 25x10-12/489 Brakes Front: Dual hydraulic disc with dual-bore front calipers Rear: Dual hydraulic disc with dual-bore front calipers Dimensions Wheelbase: 61.5” Claimed dry weight: 835 lb. Ground clearance: 10.25” Length/width/height: 90/48/68" Fuel capacity: 5.25 gal. Load Capacity Front/rear rack/box capacity: 120/240 lb. Payload capacity: 575 lb. Electrical Lighting: Halogen, 55-watt low/ 60-watt high Instrumentation: Digital gauge, analog speedometer, odometer, tachometer, tripmeter; gear indicator, fuel gauge, AWD indicator, high-temp/low-batt lights, DC outlet Read more: http://www.atvrideronline.com/features/1401_2014_polaris_sportsman_ace_4x4_first_drive/index.html#ixzz2uXh07KOT

2015 Challenger rundown

As we get closer to the 2015 Dodge Challenger’s midyear launch, it’s worth looking at what’s coming down the pike. The Challenger is moving from its current “LC” body to the “LA” body, as noted years ago by Allpar when plans first started. Most observers expect relatively few exterior changes to the car, though the dimensions will change along with key parts (including the floorpan); the classic Challenger lines will remain, but the front fascia will change, still maintaining links to the classic 1970s Dodge Challengers. The tail is likely to be modernized with smooth “light pipe” LEDs, and BMW-style “halo headlamps” seem to be in the works (at least for some models, possibly not for the base cars). The eight speed automatic is likely to become standard across the board, but enthusiasts can still get the manual six-speed — if they opt for a V8. So far numbers appear to be too low to justify a six-speed V6 combination. With the eight speed, it seems likely that the standard Hemi and 392 SRT engines will both post faster acceleration numbers with the automatic. That leaves the HellCat V8, rumored to generate a stunning 665 or more horsepower — which would make it the most powerful production V8 in the world. There has been talk of using aluminum to lighten the body, and while this might be done with some panels, it seems unlikely that the car will be much, if at all, lighter than the current Challenger. Some critics have complained about Challenger’s weight disadvantage versus some Camaros and Mustangs, without mentioning that Challenger is also a considerably larger car inside; most critics have mentioned that Challenger is also more comfortable. Given the need to handle an extra 200 or so horsepower, it seems unlikely there will be any weight loss at all, but engineers are probably working hard to minimize the weight gain by using more high-strength steel and, yes, aluminum. But it seems unlikely, given costs, technology, the length of time this Challenger will be in the field, and the need to use the existing plant without completely changing the body shop, that the car will use aluminum as part of its key structure. Perhaps in 2018-2020, or whenever the next large cars are developed, but not now. Update: It seems likely that rumors of a lighter-weight Challenger date back to plans to replace or augment Challenger with a “Barracuda,” a shorter-wheelbase car that would compete more directly with best-seller Camaro. However, these plans were publicly acknowledged by Chrysler executives, who said that they did not work — the Barracuda name was rejected by enthusiasts (since there were no Plymouth or Barracuda cues on the proposed car) and the vehicle just did not work. Instead, a new car will be added — a midsized, rear wheel drive car whose development and engineering is being shared by Dodge and Alfa Romeo. We believe engineering is led by Dodge, with Alfa Romeo having a small team that is participating in the “base car” and having total control of their own version. There are many open questions about this new car, including whether the Dodge will have room for V8s (including 392), since the Alfa is unlikely to go beyond its Maserati-Ferrari twin-turbo V6; but these are all separate issues. The new Challenger will have the most extensive choice of engines of any Chrysler or Dodge car, with a V6 and three V8s. The current 392 Hemi will remain, supplemented by the supercharged 6.2 motor — now believed to retain the HellCat name when it appears before the public. A comprehensive interior upgrade is expected, bringing Charger-like amenities, a configurable cluster, along with an electronics update to UConnect 2 with all the gadgets ’n’ gizmos that brings; the option list should grow to match 300C’s, including forward sensors, rear camera, adaptive cruise, and predictive crash protection. As read on: http://www.allpar.com/news/index.php/2014/02/2015-challenger-rundown

The New 2015 Nissan Versa Note

Competes with: Chevrolet Sonic, Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit
Looks like: The Versa Note you know, now with a sport-themed SR trim level
Drivetrain: 109-hp, 1.6-liter four-cylinder with five-speed manual or continuously variable automatic transmission; front-wheel drive
Hits dealerships: Spring 2014

Nissan's value-oriented four-door hatchback gains two new trim levels for the 2015 model year: the performance-themed SR, which makes its debut at the 2014 Chicago Auto Show, and a top-of-the-line SL version. In addition to the new SR and SL trims, all Versa Notes gain standard Bluetooth connectivity for 2015.

More 2014 Chicago Auto Show Coverage

Pricing hasn't been announced, but expect the new trims to be priced higher than the 2014 Versa Note SV, which starts at $16,800 including destination. The 2015 Versa Note hits dealerships in spring 2014.
Exterior

The new Versa Note SR gets a number of unique styling cues including a different grille, smoked headlights and fog lights with black and chrome trim. There's also a new rear spoiler, 16-inch aluminum wheels with all-season tires and SR badges.
Interior

The SR's cabin gains a number of cosmetic changes, too, including a leather-wrapped steering wheel that Nissan says is inspired by the automaker's 370Z sports car, suedelike seats with orange accents, and piano-black and silver-colored trim. Standard SR features include six-way adjustable front seats and a CD stereo with an MP3 jack.

Nissan previously offered an SL Package for the 2014 Versa Note, but the new SL trim makes a number of otherwise-optional features standard. They include a 5-inch color screen, a backup camera, Bluetooth streaming audio, USB connectivity for portable devices, satellite radio, a height-adjustable cargo floor and NissanConnect Apps. NissanConnect Apps integrates smartphone-based apps like Facebook, Twitter and Pandora. Also standard are heated front seats, push-button start and Nissan's Easy-Fill Tire Alert system.
Under the Hood

Despite the new SR trim level's sport-themed appearance it uses the same engine as all the other Versa Note models: a 109-horsepower, 1.6-liter four-cylinder. Most versions of the hatchback team with a continuously variable automatic transmission, and with the CVT the Versa Note gets an EPA-estimated 31/40/35 mpg city/highway/combined.
Safety Features

Standard features include antilock brakes, an electronic stability system, traction control, side-impact airbags for the front seats and side curtain airbags.

As read on: http://blogs.cars.com/kickingtires/2014/02/2015-nissan-versa-note-at-the-2014-chicago-auto-show.html

2014 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel Exceeds Expectations

Earlier this month, MotorTrend released its annual Truck of the Year Award and, to its own shock, gave the award to the 2014 Ram 1500, which also won Truck of the Year in 2013. Why did this announcement come as a surprise to the people at MotorTrend? Well, perhaps because the publication has not given the Truck of the Year Award to the same vehicle in back to back years since the award started in 1979.

Knowing this information, one should not be surprised that the 2014 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel received 8,000 orders between February 7 and February 10. That is, unless you are the manufacturers of said vehicle.

The 8,000 orders placed for the 2014 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel has already fulfilled the allotment Chrysler established for the truck in the first quarter of 2014. The 8,000 orders for the EcoDiesel also represent more than 50 percent of the total orders for the 2014 Ram 1500, more than doubling the estimates by Chrysler. Ram Truck Brand President and CEO Reid Bigland had previously estimated that the EcoDiesel would account for approximately 30 percent of the total sales of the 2014 Ram 1500.

The surge in sales is most likely a direct result of the most recent Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel mileage test results for the truck which showed that the 2014 Ram 1500 gets 28 mpg on the highway, better than any other full-sized, half-ton pickup on the road – and even better than the top-rated small pickup.

“The Ram 1500 is the only half-ton truck available with a diesel, so we see this as incremental business by having the only truck that can offer best-in-class fuel economy of 28 MPG combined with 9,200 lbs. of towing capacity. It’s every truck manufacturer’s dream to have this kind of initial order demand for a product. Fuel economy is the No. 1 request of half-ton buyers and the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel delivers without compromising capability,” stated Bigland.

Fortunately, consumer orders will receive priority over dealership orders. While Chrysler pegged the initial allotment at 8,000 orders, signs indicate that this number could increase if customer, not dealer, demand increases.

If interested, one can place an order for a 2014 Ram 1500 at any local Chrysler or Dodge dealer for the price of $24,200. However, if one wants the EcoDiesel engine, it will add another $2,850 to the total price.

As read on: http://www.webpronews.com/2014-ram-1500-ecodiesel-exceeds-expectations-2014-02