Last year, Bizarre Creations significantly tinkered with the formula for its fourth installment in the Microsoft-exclusive racer Project Gotham Racing. Dynamic weather effects aside, Bizarre added a hefty helping of zip to the high-octane street racer, adding in a variety of motorcycles both mundane and ultrasleek.

　　Taking a similar tack, Criterion Games said today on its official Web site that as part of its August software update for Burnout Paradise, motorcycles will be added to the game. As with other vehicles, bikes will receive their own game modes and challenges as well as "some new locations tailored to fit their unique performance and handing characteristics."

　　Sadists wondering why Paradise City is devoid of human inhabitants will be pleased to know that bikes will be mounted by riders. However, Criterion has not revealed how riders would be affected by the outcome of the brutal carnage and twisted metal of wrecks that are a hallmark for the series.

　　Riders won't be thrust into the fire immediately, however, as Criterion also said that the August update will add night driving to the game. "We wanted to clear the traffic out a little to give you the chance to learn how to ride in safety, and we've always wanted to cruise the streets of Paradise City with incredible night-time visuals," reads the announcement.

　　Burnout Paradise received its first software update for the Xbox 360 edition of the game on April 18, and the PlayStation 3 update will arrive April 24. A second update to both systems is expected to arrive at the end of June.