America and Italy’s history has been intertwined for so long that each other’s cultures have been infused into each other. This example of American-Italian collaboration is bred on speed. Ducati co-celebrates America’s Independence with the launch of the 848 Nicky Hayden special edition bike. Unveiled at the Laguna Seca Raceway, the bike features an all-American livery. The 848 will be powered by a liquid-cooled, L-Twin Desmodronic engine pumping out 134 hp. For the first time ever, the engine features a vacuum die-cast formed crankcases with a reduced weight, consistent thickness, and improved strength. The gas tanks of this special edition will feature Nicky “The Kentucky Kid” Hayden’s signature. $14,500.

It’s not exactly a bike, nor a full-fledged scooter. The Elmoto is a small, light motorcycle powered by an electric motor. In other words, it’s good, clean fun. Tipping the scales at just a shade under 100 lbs, the Elmoto is heavier than a bike but lighter than a scooter or a moped. Its brushless, gearless, rear hub motor is rated at 2 kW, pushing the bike to speeds up to 30 mph on level ground. The 48V, 25Ah battery can be recharged in as little as 2 hours giving the bike up to 45 miles of travel. Full charge will cost you a measly 70 cents, not bad for a stylish looker of a bike huh? The bike will start its journey from Stuttgart, Germany. ~$4,600.

If you plan to go for a Ducati ride, don’t forget to wear the vital gear – your helmet. Here’s the real deal, the Piquadro Leather Helmet comes in a pebble grain leather with clear visor. This Italian-designed helmet is classic yet durable and elegant. $400.

If you don’t know him, you’ll think that the West Coast Choppers’ Jesse James is a bad-ass, stone-cold dude, a hellraiser. But you couldn’t be more wrong. This guy is exceptionally kind-hearted and his latest collaboration with Illusion Motorsports showcases his heart of solid gold. The partnership is selling their 2009 Hellrazor, a brandy-wine colored, 104″ hot rod motorcycle with big fat rear wheels. The proceeds of the sale will go to the Charity of Hope, a biomedical research, treatment, and educational institution. The foundation is dedicated to the prevention and cure of cancer and other debilitating diseases that are plaguing little children. Do the right thing, this is one purchase you’ll make that’s sure to make you feel good – the sensation of which will give you chills, knowing you’re helping little angels in the process. $25,000+.

Hanna Barbera may be correct after all since we are inching closer to the Jetson’s era. Samson Motorworks is bringing us to the future on a flying bike. Yes, you read it right, it’s a motorcycle transforming into a real airplane. On the ground, it’s a three-wheeled bike with a steerable front wheel and disc brakes all around. With a flick of a switch, it flexes its wings and turns into a real airplane. The 15 and a half foot craft is powered by a 120 hp Freedom Motor twin rotor giving it an 880 mile range. An 8:1 glide ratio in case the engine fails gives the craft ample time and distance in case of emergencies and when all else fails, there’s an emergency parachute to help you land safely. Of course you’ll need a pilot’s license to own the Switchblade but a ground-only version will also be available for those who are afraid of heights. $TBA.

Sidecar motorcycles are a great idea if you have kids and want to feel better about their safety while you are riding. This thing was assembled in Russia with parts from Ducati Energia, Brembo, Sachs, Denso, Herzog, Keihin and Denso. It features a 750cc Boxer engine and has a 4 forward/ 1 reverse transmission. $10,000.

Watch out, Harley. The 2010 Triumph Thunderbird 1600 has already been launched at the INTERMOT Cologne 2009 show and it packs a punch. Although it’s market is aimed for the custom cruiser,it has a six-speed transmission and owns a 1600cc DOHC parallel twin engine. It don’t come cheap though, as the ride values at $12,999.

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