For family fun, there are a new range of bikes that can be enjoyed for the whole family. New mountain bikes from Transition Bikes include the Bandit 29, an aggressive new full-suspension bike designed for riding in all mountain terrains. The rear triangle of the bike features an interchangeable dropout that allows for a quick release of 135mm.

The 140mm fork, which is probably the new version of the Fox 34, hosts a swingarm and a tapered headtube. Commencal is offering another new all-mountain bike that is more suited for downhill riding but can also climb well.

This is not the best bike for cross-country riding, but for those who prefer downhill Commencal is the recognized expert. The Meta AM bike takes its inspiration from the Supreme DH, with a slack 67-degree head tube and low bottom bracket. The increased rigidity of the bike's frame allow for improved pedaling efficiency and the ability to react to sharp changes in grade.

Many bike rental companies will also offer the latest bikes including these ones. This can be helpful if you cannot purchase these bikes but to prefer to hire the bike whenever you are traveling or on holidays with your family.

You don't always have to buy custom bike to get that one-of-a-kind look. 2011 showed us some great machines that upped the ante on creativity and left us in eager anticipation of what's to come in 2012. 

• Yamaha FJR1300A

  An attractive and powerful touring motorcycle that is loaded with features. A 1298cc engine and five speed transmission are standard equipment on this touring bike. An angular fairing, ergonomic seat, fuel tank and handlebar design, pushbutton adjustable windscreen and heated grips are just some of the standard features on this cycle.

   

• Honda Fury VT1300CX

  With its raked frame, extended front end, low seat, fat rear tire and alloy wheels, this chopper is a real head-turner. The engine on this motorcycle is a 1312cc liquid-cooled V-twin model, and a five-speed transmission with shaft drive propels this awesome machine. For 2011, this chopper is available in orange metallic, red metallic and pearl white.

   

• Victory Kingpin

  This sturdy machine features an eye-catching design that is accented by a sloping fuel tank, low seat and full-size flared fenders. When it comes to power, this beast features a 1731cc air/oil-cooled V-twin engine with a six-speed overdrive transmission.

   

• Harley-Davidson FXCWC Rocker C

  A truly awesome bike that maintains a lean and mean, semi-chopper appearance. With its raked front end and custom frame, wide rear tire, two-in-one seat and shorty exhausts, this custom Harley-Davidson exudes a retro yet modern image.

   

• BMW R1200R Touring Special

  A rough and ready, powerful and stylish machine, the BMW R1200R is a touring bike loaded with features that offers exceptional comfort and handling.

No matter which type of motorcycle you ride, be sure to wear a helmet and contact MotorcycleInsurance.com to handle all of your motorcycle insurance needs.

Former World Superbike Champion and works Ducati rider, Neil Hodgson will be taking over from Carl Fogarty as the ambassador for the Ducati 848 Challenge next year. Neil Hodgson, a resident of the Isle of Man also won a British Superbike Championship with GSE Ducati. He will be making appearances at British Superbike rounds and is also scheduled to be at one of the overseas rounds like the World Ducati Week, from the 21st to the 24th of June 2012 in Misano. Hodgson will be on-hand to give advice and mentor the Ducati 848 riders on and off track. A Ducati spokesperson stated that Ducati UK and Neil are in working together to come up with a package that will offer the best opportunities to younger as well as established riders competing in the Championship.