BL AC K O U T

Mercedes has announced prices for its limited-edition AMG GT Black Series. This serious machine features a very special 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine that, unlike the regular V8 in other hot Mercedes-AMGs and in the new Aston Martin DBX, has a flat-plane crankshaft. Most V8s use a 90-degree crankshaft, which gives the engine a very clear rumble. Ferrari V8s have 180-degree (or flat plane) crankshafts and have more of a scream.

Anyway, the engine produces 730bhp and propels the Black Series to 201mph. The price is an equally impressive number – £335,000.

Bentley has launched a new range of accessories for its Bentayga luxury SUV. The accessories have been split into four different categories – Exterior, Interior, Touring and Protection.

One of the parts that Bentley is making the most noise about is a titanium exhaust system made by Akrapovic in which the central silencer is replaced by straight pipes which channel exhaust gases into the standard rear muffler. No prices are given for the accessory packs or the sports exhaust, but you can bet they’re expensive.

More good news from the Motorcycle Industry Association. Sales of powered two-wheelers have continued their postlockdown boom; particularly scooters. July’s sales figures for scooter sales were up an amazing 41.9% over the same month in 2019. Motorcycle sales are also going gangbusters with sales up 37.5%.

The MCIA says training centres are seeing record numbers of first-time riders. I wonder if we’re going to see another golden era of motorcycling like we had in the 1970s when I started riding bikes. People are clearly realising that bikes are fun, affordable and beat the traffic. For more info see unlockyourfreedom.co.uk