RANGE OVER 2012 AUTOBIOGRAPHY
The main storyline at the 2011 New York Auto Show was the continuing dominance of the small car, with 40 miles per gallon the new 0-60. Land Rover went the opposite direction and stuck to their OPEC-defying heritage with the debut of the 2012 Range Rover Autobiography. This car appeals to the super rich, because for them, money is not an issue, but status is. The decadent and fun features include: a mini fridge between the back seats, fold down (more…)
2012 VOLKSWAGON BEETLE
Volkswagon just unveiled a new redesign of it’s iconic Beetle and we really like the new, masculine look. Understanding that high fuel prices are driving demand for smaller cars, VW is hoping this latest version, only the 2nd redesign ever, will have mass appeal. Upon first glance, the future looks promising. Hopefully they’ll avoid pale yellow as a color option.
PIPISTREL VIRUS 12
Have you ever wanted to learn how to fly a plane, even if it’s just for that moment when both pilots get sick after eating the chicken? With the introduction of the Sport Pilots License, it’s never been easier. You can be up in the air flying after 20 hours of training, vs. the 40 hours it used to take. Here are the rules, and they’re A-OK with us: no flying at night, no flying in inclement weather, and stay away from complicated aircraft. The Pipistrel Virus line of planes fit under the Light Sport category and will run you about $100K. Winner of the 2008 General Aviation Challenge by NASA, the Virus 12 is a nimble, fast and sleek looking plane. And the best part, it has a ballistic parachute rescue system, which “saves the complete aircraft together with the crew in case of severe emergencies.” That’s something we’d like American Airlines to adopt.
Training for a Sport Pilots License will run you between $2,500-$5,000, depending upon where you take the course. As summer is quickly approaching why not really go for it and learn something new? Just don’t expect your friends to come flying with you. For more info on training courses near you check out sportpilot.org.
THE MANLIEST BRAND IN THE WORLD: HUSQVARNA
The rules for being crowned the manliest brand in the world are: 1) you must be truly a global brand, and 2) you must invoke feelings of power and sound tough just saying the name. Swedish brand Husqvarna has both. Started in 1689 as a military arsenal producing muskets for the Swedish military, it now comprises four different companies, producing: small arms, chain saws, motorcycles and sewing machines (we’ll give a pass on that last one). Everything about this brand is tough, including the $589 Husqvarna 365 chain saw shown above, part of the “Powerful Robust Saw Collection.” (no joke).
Today, Husqvarna’s motorcycle division specializes in Enduro and Motocross models, but earlier bikes, like this 1935 Cafe Racer, are beautiful and as memorable as any vintage BMW, Indian or Harley.
Runners up to the manliest brand in the world award: CAT, BRAUN and MACK TRUCKS.
2011 MINI COUNTRYMAN
2011 MINI COUNTRYMAN. We’ve always liked the Mini Cooper but it was always just a bit too mini. The odd looking Clubman model failed to inspire with it’s peculiar dimensions and wheel spacing. At $27,650 the All 4 Sport version of the new Countryman shown above is finally worth embracing. A bulldog of a car; powerful, with a low wheelbase and tough looking under bite. This car may just unseat the VW GTI as the baddest of its class.
WRENCHMONKEES
WRENCHMONKEES HONDA CB750. This stunning cafe racer dubbed “Gorilla Punch” comes from the Copenhagen motorcycle builders, Wrenchmonkees. They specializing in taking popular classics and updating them with killer design and modern performance. This particular bike is based on the air-cooled, inline four Honda CB750. $30,000. Check out their site for more background and images.
AQUARIVA + GUCCI
This isn’t the Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer Edition. Gucci designer Frida Giannini has collaborated with Italian boat maker Aquariva to design one stunning luxury toy. The boat is impressive, just steer clear of the matching boat shoes and accessories. Although overkill is the last thing on the mind of potential owners. $760,000
BIG SKY MONTANA
For an October upgrade worthy of the Rockies, here are five things to look for:
1966 Chevy. When pick ups were subtle and the power was under-the-hood and not tricked out with aggressive styling.
Crescent Down Works for J.Crew. ($465) A Seattle based shop founded in 1974. The silhouette is a bit longer and more practical than the flashy puffer jackets that are currently a trend. Ideal for trudging through a snowstorm.
Timberland Dark Brown Earthkeepers. ($160). Wear these with worn-in jeans or heavy Carhartt’s and a thick pair of wool socks.
Orvis Deerskin Gloves.($59) These versatile gloves are good for hauling hay barrels or simply driving cross-country on a long road trip. The inner fleece shells remove and can be worn on their own. For no-nonsense outdoor gear, Orvis is a great option.
Hamilton Conservation Watch. ($800). Add a strong Elk to your watch collection and feel good about your purchase. Hamilton teamed up with Harrison Ford to create the Conservation model with proceeds going to Conservation International: “Working to ensure a healthy and productive planet for us all.”
TRIUMPH 2010 “THRUXTON”
2010 Triumph Thruxton Limited Edition SE motorcycle. A cafe racer with sporty looks and serious power.
1963 FERRARI 250 GT BERLINETTA LUSSO
Legendary actor Steve McQueen’s car of choice. It sold for 2 million at auction in 2007. Sleek classic lines, beautiful original color.
DUCATI LIMITED EDITION PAUL SMART MOTORCYCLE
In 1972 racing legend Paul Smart won on the 750 Imola Desmo, marking the beginning of the dominant Ducati racing era.
1958 PORSCHE SPEEDSTER: CALIFORNIA COOL
1958 Porsche Speedster
