CanadianMotorcycleRider

BMW Motorrad presents the Navigator VI

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Sat, 28 Jan 2017 23:57:00 +0000

BMW Motorrad presents the new Navigator VI, available from March 2017 alongside the existing Navigator V, comprising a new navigation system with numerous innovative features in addition to further enhanced functionality. The new system retains the same external dimensions as before, as well as the 5"display, which, thanks to the inclusion of a circular polarisation filter, now benefits from enhanced readability, particularly in strong and direct sunlight.

Munich. BMW Motorrad presents the new Navigator VI, available from March 2017 alongside the existing Navigator V, comprising a new navigation system with numerous innovative features in addition to further enhanced functionality. The new system retains the same external dimensions as before, as well as the 5" display, which, thanks to the inclusion of a circular polarisation filter, now benefits from enhanced readability, particularly in strong and even direct sunlight.

Not only has the internal storage capacity been increased from 8 GB to 16 GB (for the EU/US; the device with no preinstalled maps still has 4 GB), but the new Navigator VI now offers the "Winding roads" route option for avoiding built-up areas, providing the roads and conditions allow. Another new feature available for computing routes is "Avoid main roads". Used in conjunction with the existing "Avoid motorways" function, selecting the most suitable roads for motorcycling is now even better. The "Round Trip" function configures trips based on time, distance or interim destination, offering one more new way of creating a highly individual and intensive motorcycling experience. With the "Natural Guidance" function, navigation instructions also provide precise descriptions of the surroundings.

The new "Music Streaming" feature, which works in conjunction with Bluetooth, makes it possible to listen to music stored on a smartphone. Even compatible action cams can be controlled directly through the Navigator VI. The comfortable and intuitive operation of all the controls that are typically needed while riding can be model-specifically enabled using either the four-button mount cradle or the multi-controller on the handlebars. Additional functions such as the "My Motorcycle" pages as well as warning and status messages are available in conjunction with the navigation preparation. Traffic congestion and weather reports can be displayed in real time using the optional Garmin Smartphone Link App. With all future updates of preinstalled map data available free of charge plus an optional car installation kit, the new BMW Motorrad Navigator VI is the perfect companion for people on the road.

Carlo Paladino Inducted in Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Sat, 28 Jan 2017 23:49:00 +0000

MOTORCYCLING LEGENDS AND CHAMPIONS TO BE HONOURED AT ELEVENTH ANNUAL CANADIAN MOTORCYCLE HALL OF FAME INDUCTION BANQUET AND REUNION

Toronto ON – January 25, 2016 – The Board of Directors of the Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame is pleased to announce the third member of the Class of 2016. Carlo Paladino will be honoured at the 11th annual Induction Banquet and Reunion which takes place February 25, 2017 at the Sheraton Montreal Airport Hotel in Montreal, Quebec.

Carlo Paladino charged onto Canadian shores in the summer of 1963 like a blast of wind from across the Mediterranean. What brought him here is a love story. His sweetheart emigrated in 1961 but Carlo was bound by two years of military service. He finally arrived in 1963 and he and Maria were married shortly after.

Carlo had a dream of owning his own business and envisaged a national operation. Starting from scratch, and with a bank loan guaranteed by the equity in his home, he kept stock in his basement and delivered goods in a rusty old truck, keeping up a brutal schedule, starting early and working late. Today Motovan operates out of Quebec, Edmonton and London and employs 200 people across Canada as well as facilities in the U.S.A.

Since the beginning Motovan has been a generous supporter of motorcycle sport in Canada with financial contributions, donation of product and linkage of riders with product suppliers worldwide. Carlo helped sponsor Yvon, Mario and Miguel Duhamel in both motocross and road racing since the early 1980s and contributed clothing and helmets to Jean-Sebastien Roy since the days JSR was a junior rider. Others include Marco Dubé, Guy Giroux, Steve Crevier, Pascal Picotte and Jordan Szoke. In the past 15 years alone Motovan has contributed more than $5 million worth of product at wholesale value to amateur and pro racers well as $2 million toward race series and other organized events.

“Carlo Paladino’s activities in the motorcycle community make him a perfect candidate for the Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame. His legendary enthusiasm for sponsoring racers, events, and virtually anything to do with motorcycles will not be forgotten. The Chair of the Board and the Directors are pleased and honoured to welcome Carlo to the Class of 2016”.

Tickets for the Eleventh Annual Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Banquet and Reunion are available at www.canmoto.ca.

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Victory Motorcycle Important Announcement

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Mon, 09 Jan 2017 16:23:00 +0000

POLARIS INDUSTRIES TO WIND DOWN VICTORY MOTORCYCLES OPERATIONS
STRENGTHENING ITS POSITION IN THE POWERSPORTS INDUSTRY

MINNEAPOLIS (January 9, 2017) — Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII) today announced it will immediately begin winding down its Victory Motorcycles brand and related operations. Polaris will assist dealers in liquidating existing inventories while continuing to supply parts for a period of 10 years, along with providing service and warranty coverage to Victory dealers and owners. Today’s announcement does not affect any other Polaris business units.

“This was an incredibly difficult decision for me, my team and the Polaris Board of Directors,” said Polaris Industries Chairman and CEO Scott Wine. “Over the past 18 years, we have invested not only resources, but our hearts and souls, into forging the Victory Motorcycles brand, and we are exceptionally proud of what our team has accomplished. Since inception, our teams have designed and produced nearly 60 Victory models that have been honored with 25 of the industry’s top awards. The experience, knowledge, infrastructure and capability we’ve built in those 18 years gave us the confidence to acquire and develop the Indian Motorcycle brand, so I would like to express my gratitude to everyone associated with Victory Motorcycles and celebrate your many contributions.”

Several factors influenced today’s announcement. Victory has struggled to establish the market share needed to succeed and be profitable. The competitive pressures of a challenging motorcycle market have increased the headwinds for the brand. Given the significant additional investments required for Victory to launch new global platforms that meet changing consumer preferences, and considering the strong performance and growth potential of Indian Motorcycle, the decision to more narrowly focus Polaris’ energy and investments became quite clear.

“This decision will improve the profitability of Polaris and our global motorcycle business, and will materially improve our competitive stance in the industry,” said Scott Wine. “Our focus is on profitable growth, and in an environment of finite resources, this move allows us to optimize and align our resources behind both our premium, high performing Indian Motorcycle brand and our innovative Slingshot brand, enhancing our focus on accelerating the success of those brands. Ultimately this decision will propel the industry-leading product innovation that is core to our strategy while fostering long-term growth and increased shareholder value.”

Polaris will reduce the appropriate operating cost based on this decision, while continuing to support the future growth of the ongoing motorcycle business. Polaris remains committed to maintaining its presence in the Spirit Lake, Iowa community with Indian Motorcycle production and in the Huntsville, Alabama community with its Slingshot production.

Any one-time costs associated with supporting Victory dealers in selling their remaining inventory, the disposal of factory inventory, tooling, and other physical assets, and the cancellation of various supplier arrangements will be recorded in the 2017 income statement in respective sales, gross profit and operation expense. These costs will be excluded from Polaris’ provided 2017 sales and earnings guidance on a non-GAAP basis.

Polaris will release its fourth quarter and full-year 2016 financial results and provide 2017 guidance on Tuesday, January 24, 2017. A webcast and conference call will be held at 9:00 a.m. Central Time on January 24, 2017 to discuss the results. A slide presentation and link to the webcast will be posted on the Polaris Investor Relations website at ir.polaris.com. To listen to the conference call by phone, dial 877-706-7543 in the U.S. and Canada, or 478-219-0273 Internationally. The Conference ID is #45015597.

Victory Dealers Compete against each other in ‘Operation Octane’ Custon Build Contest

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Thu, 10 Nov 2016 02:08:00 +0000

Victory Motorcycles^® is excited to launch “Operation Octane,” a contest that has Victory dealers competing against each other by turning wrenches to create the ultimate custom Victory Octane^®motorcycle.

You’ve seen Victory Octane customs built by motorcycle industry icons like Zach Ness, Aaron Colton and Rick Fairless. Now, over 20 Victory dealers from around the world have created their own interpretations of the light, fast and affordable Octane.

Dealers participating in Operation Octane were asked to utilize a 2017 Victory Octane, however their build inspirations and themes were up to them. There’ll be four winners – a North American champion, North American runner-up, International champion and International runner-up – who’ll compete for prizes including a 1^st place of $5,000 and inclusion in a print ad, and a 2^nd place of $3,000. The four winning dealers will be determined by the voting public.

Fans of Victory Motorcycles are invited to vote for their favorite bike online at VictoryMotorcycles.com until November 21. Voters will be entered for a chance to win a free 2017 Victory Octane, $3,000 worth of Victory Octane parts, garments & accessories, plus a trip to meet and customize their awarded Octane with TV’s Bryan Fuller and his Fuller Moto design shop.

Available in Gloss Black ($9,999), Matte Super Steel Gray ($10,499), Matte Pearl White ($10,499) and Gloss Black with Graphics ($10,499), the2017 Victory Octane features a high revving liquid-cooled 60-degree V-Twin with four-valve heads and dual-overhead cams that makes 104 horsepower and 76 foot-pounds of tire-shredding torque. While it has the heart of a Pikes Peak International Hill Climb™ racer and a 0-60 mph time that makes it the quickest Victory ever produced, there’s also a stiff and lightweight cast-aluminum frame, sharp steering geometry, a tight wheelbase and 32 degrees of lean angle.

“It has been incredible to see what Victory Octane owners have done with their motorcycles, and the broad guidelines we’ve established for this contest are sure to bring out some equally amazing interpretations of the bike,” says Nate Secor, Manager of Marketing, Victory Motorcycles. “Built around that stellar Octane engine and frame, I’m sure we’ll see these customs represent a variety of niches – sportbike, standard, scrambler, cruiser, etc.”

Learn more about Operation Octane and Victory Motorcycles at VictoryMotorcycles.com or follow on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Continued sales volume growth for Motorcycles segment at BMW

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Thu, 10 Nov 2016 02:05:00 +0000

The Motorcycles segment continues to perform well. Worldwide sales of BMW motorcycles and maxi-scooters during the three-month period from July to Septembertotalled 35,290 units, 3.8% more than the previous year. Third-quarter segment revenues amounted to € 451 million (2015: € 454 million; -0.7%). Earnings were also down on the previous year, mainly due to expenses incurred during the start-up phase of a number of projects connected with implementing BMW Motorrad’s new strategy. EBITcame in at € 32 million (2015: € 46 million; -30.4%), while profit before tax also finished at € 32 million (2015: € 45 million; -28.9%).

The segment delivered 116,044 (2015: 112,411) motorcycles and maxi-scooters to customers during the first nine months of the year, an increase of 3.2% compared to the previous year. At € 1,650 million, segment revenues were similar to the previous year (2015: € 1,643 million: +0.4%). EBIT amounted to € 224 million (2015: € 273 million; -17.9%), while profit before tax finished at € 223 million (2015: € 271 million; -17.7%).

Szoke looks to add to legacy in Mopar CSBK finale at CTMP

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 11:01:00 +0000

A perfect season in any sport is considered a once-in-a-lifetime achievement. The National Football League’s Miami Dolphins went 17-0 in 1972 and have been waiting for someone to match them ever since.

But at this weekend’s doubleheader final round of the Mopar Canadian Superbike Championship at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park Jordan Szoke will be bidding for his third perfect season, and second in succession, in addition to claiming an 11th Canadian Superbike title.

The 37-year-old racer from Lynden, Ont. went unbeaten for the first time in 2010 before running the table again in 2015, capping off his remarkable year with a doubleheader sweep at CTMP.

This season Szoke has victories in all five Mopar CSBK races aboard the Mopar Express Lane / Motovan / BMW Motorrad BMW S1000RR and enjoys a commanding 51-point lead, 268-217, over Kenny Riedmann heading into this weekend’s doubleheader.

A weekend sweep would not only assure Szoke of his third perfect campaign, but also give him 59 Canadian Superbike race wins and 14 at CTMP, both all-time records.

However, with two points paying races on tap this weekend and 50 points for a race win, it would not take much for Riedmann to turn the tables on the defending champion. The 24-year-old from Belfountain, Ont. has finished second to Szoke in each race this year and led most of the most recent round at Atlantic Motorsport Park.

The rider of the Sturgess Cycle / Liqui Moly / Joe Rocket Kawasaki ZX-10R Ninja came within a turn of ending Szoke’s perfect 2015 season at CTMP last year and will be looking to close the deal this time around.

Another rider capable of upsetting Szoke is top BCR Pro Rookie of the Year contender Ben Young. The 23-year-old from Collingwood, Ont. lies third in the point standings with 186 points on the Tim Horton’s / Scot-Build Developments / BMW Motorrad BMW S1000RR and has finished on the podium four times this year.

Also worth watching will be Warman, Sask.’s Bodhi Edie. The 20-year-old rider of the Trip-Dub Racing / Z1 Cycle Tech / Birkett Freight Solutions Yamaha YZF-R1 has been out of action most of the summer after a qualifying crash at Autodrome St-Eustache in June, but is due back at CTMP this weekend and scored his only career Canadian Superbike win on the high-speed 3.9km (2.459-mile) 10-turn track in 2013.

There is also a tight battle for fourth in the Mopar CSBK standings, with only 11 points separating the three contenders. Beaconsfield, Que.’s Michael Leon enjoyed a season-high fourth place finish at AMP on the Royal Distributing Race Team / BMW Motorrad / Pro 6 Cycle BMW S1000RR. Riding the MotoNation / Laval Moto Kawasaki ZX-10R Ninja, Mirabel, Que. rider Tremblay has a history of strong results at CTMP, while Mississauga, Ont.’s Daley had his most competitive weekend of the season at AMP with the OneSpeed Yamaha YZF-R1M.

A highlight of Friday’s action will be the debut of special Dunlop Qualifying Tires for the Dalton Timmis Insurance Pole Position Shootout, as riders make an assault on Brett McCormick’s five-year-old track record of one minute, 20.866 seconds.

In other doubleheader action at CTMP this weekend, Riedmann is in position to claim his third straight Liqui Moly Pro Sport Bike title on his Kawasaki ZX-6R. He comes into the two races with a massive 98-point lead, 220-122, over rookie Pro Alex Coelho of Brossard, Que. on the Black Sheep Racing / Liqui Moly / A.G. Graphique Kawasaki ZX-6R, while former two-time Superbike champion Michael Taylor of Toronto is just a further point back in third riding the Triumph Canada / GP Bikes / Goderich Toyota Triumph 675.

Last year’s co-winner of the BCR Pro Rookie of the Year Award Tomas Casas of Peterborough, Ont. has two podium finishes on the Peterborough Cycle Salvage / Parts Canada Yamaha YZF-R6.

Jean-Marc Bilger of Montreal comes to CTMP leading the Magneti Marelli Amateur Superbike class on his BMW S1000RR, while Ottawa’s Chris Brent tops the Shoei Premium Helmets Amateur Sport Bike class with a Honda CBR600RR.

In the closest points battle, Ile Perrot, Que.’s Eric Quintin enjoys a slender one-point advantage over Windsor, N.S. rider Brandon Pemberton in the Kawasaki Ninja 300 Spec National Series.

Competition begins on Friday with qualifying. Feature races in all five national classes will be held Saturday and Sunday.

For more information and to order tickets, call the Canadian Tire Motorsport Park Hotline at 1-800-866-1072 (Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm ET), visit online at www.canadiantiremotorsportpark.com, or email info@ctmpark.com.

2016 Point Standings
Mopar Pro Superbike: 1. Jordan Szoke (BMW) 268; 2. Kenny Riedmann (Kawasaki) 217; 3. Ben Young (BMW) 186; 4. Michael Leon (BMW) 149; 5. Sebastien Tremblay (Kawasaki), Trevor Daley (Yamaha) 138
Liqui Moly Pro Sport Bike: 1. Kenny Riedmann (Kawasaki) 220; 2. Alex Coelho (Kawasaki) 122; 3. Michael Taylor (Triumph) 121
Magneti Marelli Amateur Superbike: 1. Jean-Marc Bilger (BMW) 175; 2. Chris Brent (Honda) 142; 3. Jacob Shaw-O’Leary (Honda) 121
Shoei Premium Helmets Amateur Sport Bike: 1. Chris Brent (Honda) 188; 2. Jacob Shaw-O’Leary (Honda) 139; 3. Eric Richard (Honda) 99
Kawasaki Ninja 300 Spec National Series: 1. Eric Quintin (Kawasaki) 369; 2. Brandon Pemberton (Kawasaki) 368; 3. Jared Walker (Kawasaki) 293

Recent Canadian Tire Motorsport Park Superbike National Wins
2015 – Jordan Szoke (BMW S1000RR) / Jordan Szoke (BMW S1000RR)
2014 – Frank Trombino (Aprilia RSV1000) / Jodi Christie (Honda CBR1000RR)
2013 – Bodhi Edie (BMW S1000RR) / Alex Welsh (Suzuki GSX-R1000)
2012 – Kevin Lacombe (BMW S1000RR) / Alex Welsh (Suzuki GSX-R1000)
2011 – Brett McCormick (BMW S1000RR) / Jordan Szoke (Kawasaki ZX-10R)

Canadian Tire Motorsport Park Fast Facts
…The year-end payout for the four national classes at CTMP (excluding the Kawasaki Ninja 300 Series) will be a total of $64,000, 20 percent more than last season, with the biggest single payout going to the Mopar Pro Superbike champ at $10,000. The Kawasaki class is new this season.

…The only win for an Aprilia in CSBK competition came courtesy of Frank Trombino in a wet race one at CTMP in 2014. It was his third career victory at the track, after he had scored back-to-back wins on a Yamaha in 2000 and 2001. Ducati scored its sole CSBK feature success at CTMP in 1995, with Jeff Sneyd aboard.

…Jordan Szoke has swept the doubleheader at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park four times. Pascal Picotte of Granby, Que. also managed the feat, pulling it off twice.

Provisional Weekend Schedule

Friday, August 1912:45 p.m. – 1:10 p.m. Dalton Timmis Insurance Pro Superbike Elimination Qualifying
1:20 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. – Shoei Premium Helmets Amateur Sport Bike Qualifying
1:55 p.m. – 2:10 p.m. -- Dalton Timmis Insurance Pro Superbike Top 10 Qualifier
2:30 – 2:55 p.m. – Magneti Marelli Amateur Superbike Qualifying
3:35 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. – Liqui Moly Pro Sport Bike Qualifying

Saturday, August 2011:15 a.m. – 11:35 a.m. – Kawasaki Ninja 300 Spec Series Qualifying
1:00 p.m. – Liqui Moly Pro Sport Bike Race (14 laps)
Shoei Premium Helmets Amateur Sport Bike Race (12 laps)
Kawasaki Ninja 300 Spec Series Race (10 laps)
3:00 p.m. – Mopar Pro Superbike Race (20 laps)
Magneti Marelli Amateur Superbike Race (12 laps)

Sunday, August 211:00 p.m. – Liqui Moly Pro Sport Bike Race (14 laps)
Shoei Premium Helmets Amateur Sport Bike Race (12 laps)
Kawasaki Ninja 300 Spec Series Race (10 laps)
3:00 p.m. – Mopar Pro Superbike Race (20 laps)
Magneti Marelli Amateur Superbike Race (12 laps)

A Letter from David Hatch - Motorcycle Experience

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Mon, 15 Aug 2016 11:04:00 +0000

Hi everyone,

A couple of brand new Honda’s (CB1100A and VFR1200X) were dropped off here recently and my buddy Gilbert and I couldn't resist going on a pre ride with both motorcycles over the long weekend.

A lot of folks have been asking me what I thought of the VFR1200X. Well, the big impression with this motorcycle, has got to be the terrific engine. Hands down. I mean, the V4 engine sounds great in this configuration (new cams and ECU programming) and the torque is terrific everywhere up and down the rev range. The fly by wire throttle delivers superb feel and the sound from the single pipe is sweet. The adjustable suspension pieces are a nice touch here and the handling is superb. Everything has been nicely calibrated to allow both single and two up riding. I really like how this bike handled. Linked anti lock braking is standard and totally up to the job while the crossed laced spoke wheels were perfect for the pavement. And they managed "ok” on the hard-packed dirt roads we explored. To make your touring life easier, the VFR1200X comes with a really nifty adjustable, on the fly, windscreen, heated grips, hand protectors, a hand 12 volt power socket for your GPS. You can also order the optional hard bag luggage system with internal liner bags. The system is top drawer, however there were a couple of minor gripes. The saddle was a bit of a let down - it’s been sculpted to allow for riders with a shorter inseam to be able to reach the ground. Great for shorter riders.. not so great for my glutes! After a couple of hours of riding, I found myself thinking that if I owned this motorcycle, I’d probably swap the saddle our for something with more cushion. The other tiny pet peeve? I don’t know if it’s my aging eyes, but I really found the instrument pod a tad lacking. Maybe it was because I was jumping back and forth with the CB1100A. A retro standard motorcycle with two great sweeping analogue gauges. I dunno. Not a huge deal. But I’d love to see a bigger info screen on this puppy. Overall though, I loved the VFR1200X. If you are looking for a bike that can pretty much take you anywhere as long as the road is mostly paved. A motorcycle with lots of room to stretch out and move around. A motorcycle with a great suspension set up that delivers great handling when the road turns twisty. If you like throaty, torque loaded engines with unique character that delivers plenty of power across the width of the power band, then this is the bike for you!

Also, don't forget that we will be once again throwing a party for fans of our TV show at the end of September and you are all invited to ride out and join in the celebration! That’s right, our Prince Edward County based motorcycle television show will play host on Saturday, September 24 at the Hillier Creek Estate Winery just south of Trenton, Ontario in the heart of the County’s wine region. As you know, our long running TV show, which is shot primarily in Prince Edward County has been on the air for over 27 years, and as the show's presenter, I’m looking forward to playing host down in the County from 8:30am to 3:30pm. Once again the Honda Canada demo ride crew will be on hand providing motorcycle demo rides and party favours. Plus this year I’m happy to announce that we’ve partnered up with the local, Eastern Shield chapter of the Canadian Vintage Motorcycle Group and they will be on hand with a large vintage motorcycle display.

Meanwhile in Episode 4, my riding buddy Norm Wells and I ride through the valley of fire east of Las Vegas, Nevada and wind up stealing home plate. Then during this weeks “Red Adventure”, former professional road racer turned expert enduro rider, Toni Sharpless looks at under armour. While on the subject of body protection, our resident riding Instructor Clinton Smout will stop by this week to discuss the riding shoulder seasons. Plus motorcycle journalist, Colin Fraser will roll up with some advice on shopping for a used set of wheels while looking back at a 2007 Harley-Davidson Night Rod.

Hope you like the show!

Keep your right hand cranked,

David

Banner year for BMW Motorrad in the works?

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Mon, 15 Aug 2016 10:59:00 +0000

This year continues to be the best ever for BMW Motorrad, with year-to-date sales up 2.1% compared with the same period last year: 94,546 motorcycles and maxi-scooters were delivered to customers in the first seven months of the year. Monthly sales for July achieved almost the same extremely high level as last year with 13,792 units sold, a slight decrease of 2.7%.

INDIAN MOTORCYCLE AND RACING LEGENDS UNVEIL NEW FTR750 FOR AMA FLAT TRACK COMPETITION

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Thu, 11 Aug 2016 11:00:00 +0000

Indian Motorcycle Wrecking Crew Living Legends, Bobby Hill and Bill Tuman on-hand in Sturgis to celebrate historic return to professional racing

MINNEAPOLIS (August 8, 2016) — Indian Motorcycle®, America’s first motorcycle company, unleashed its all-new Indian Scout FTR750 flat track race bike in a place synonymous with the brand – the 76th annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The event is the latest milestone in the historic return to professional flat track racing for the brand, while the Scout FTR750 represents Indian Motorcycle’s bid for a strong return to AMA flat track racing.

The Indian Scout FTR750 was revealed at the “Motorcycles as Art” industry event that took place at the famed Buffalo Chip in Sturgis. Special guests on-hand were the two surviving members of the legendary Indian Wrecking Crew, Bobby Hill and Bill Tuman, both of whom are AMA Hall of Fame members. The third member of the Wrecking Crew, Ernie Beckman, passed away in 1999. The motorcycle featured the #51 of Bill Tuman, as a tribute to the last rider to win a Grand National Championship on an Indian in 1953.

“A heritage of racing and winning is in the lifeblood of this brand, and everyone in attendance was clearly proud to be a part of this important moment in the historic return of Indian Motorcycle to professional flat track racing,” said President of Motorcycles Steve Menneto. “We have an incredible team of engineers and designers working on this initiative, and all of us are deeply committed to building a world-class racing program that will live up to our legendary history on the track.”

The all-new Indian Scout FTR750 features a high-revving, racing V-Twin engine developed in-house

and is wrapped in a unique steel frame that allows for a tight wheelbase, large centrally located airbox and unique lightweight carbon fiber body. The design of the race-only bike reflects the heritage of key Indian racing models from history including the Big Base Scout; a historic bike that won in Daytona, dominated events across the country and is still raced in Vintage competition today.

Personalize Your Bike With The New On-Line Scrambler Configurator

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Mon, 08 Aug 2016 10:00:00 +0000

Select and personalize your bike with the brand new Scrambler configurator

The new platform features Hi Def images, accessory kits, apparel, and the chance to receive feedback from a local Ducati Scrambler dealer

Possibility to personalize a Scrambler even via a mobile device

All of the configurator’s features are created with precision and originality.

Borgo Panigale, Bologna (Italy), July 21 2016 – The new Ducati Scrambler configurator is now live at: Configurator.scramblerducati.com. The platform allows for the personalization of all six versions at any time and even via a mobile device. From the Scrambler Icon, to the Sixty2. From the Urban Enduro, to the Full Throttle, the Classic and the Flack Track Pro, all of the bikes in the Scrambler range can be viewed and made even more unique and distinctive.

The Scrambler configurator is one of the many projects falling under the Ducati Brand Unit that promotes “self-expression”, the concept that characterises the Scrambler universe. All such projects are designed to give room to creativity, expanding the brand using unconventional and increasingly innovative channels.

In terms of motorcycle personalization, the new Ducati Scrambler configurator offers the possibility to choose from more than 60 accessories: original tank covers and three different Scrambler logos; Racing accessories to emphasise the bike’s sport spirit; six different seats; Enduro accessories for rugged protection when off-road; and much more. All of the images available in the configurator are provided in High Definition, ensuring true to life representation.

The platform offers eleven views of the bike, including side, three-quarter, rear, front, from above and from the riding position. Even the setting can be personalized. The Ducati Scrambler configurator can also be used to choose trendy and practical apparel from the latest collection dedicated to the brand. In order to ensure safety, comfort and style, Scrambler apparel include jackets, trousers, gloves, footwear, t-shirts, glasses and even helmets and goggles, all useful and fun.

There is also the ‘Hop on your motorbike’ option, an additional function that lets the customer share a configuration with his/her closest Ducati Scrambler dealer and receive useful feedback in real time. The configurator also allows for via social media sharing.

“Thanks to the new Scrambler configurator, we create the perfect bike for our fans, in a quick and simple way”, comments Piergiorgio Grossi, Ducati Information Technology & Digital Transformation Director. “In addition, we provide them with many useful options so that they can enjoy an experience that is not just about bikes, accessories and clothing, but also instils the sense of belonging to a large Community. This is one of the first steps of Digital Transformation to be implemented by Ducati and results are proving to be significant and competitive. We would like a Ducatista to be a Ducatista not only when riding but everywhere, at all times, and this becomes possible when the Ducati experience also incorporates all the new digital tools”.

Claudio De Angeli, Scrambler Ducati Brand Unit manager, confirms this. “I’m proud that this digital evolution beginning with the Scrambler brand that has always considered viral, informal communication to be one of its strengths. It was no coincidence that in 2014 we chose to focus on digital channels when launching the new Scrambler concept. That was the starting point and today we have an extensive Community through our Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and Vimeo pages and via our site. In addition, in the last few days, we’ve also opened a YouTube channel and launched the first Scrambler app dedicated to street food, The Taste of Joy*”.

To follow Scrambler Ducati activities on social networks, click on twitter.com/scramblerducati, facebook.com/scramblerducati, instagram.com/scramblerducati andyoutube.com/c/scramblerducati-official.

* Available for iOS, soon available for Android devices. Tasteofjoy.scramblerducati.com/

Dunlop announces 'Q' Tire for Mopar CSBK at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Fri, 05 Aug 2016 14:15:00 +0000

The final events in the 2016 Mopar CSBK Series at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, Ont., August 19-21, will feature the use of soft option Dunlop Qualifying slick tires. For Dalton Timmis Insurance SuperPole Qualifying at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park on Friday afternoon,August 19, a special second timed session will allow the top 10 riders in the Mopar Pro Superbike class to utilize the unique rear slick super soft ‘Q tire’ for their timed laps.

The special Dunlop Qualifying tires will be recognizable to fans by their sidewalls decorated with a broad yellow stripe.

“It’s been five years since we last used Q tires in the Series,” explained CSBK Series Technical Boss Fred Benjamin. “We have slightly tweaked the August 19schedule to make it easier for the top Pros to get set for the final 15-minute SuperPole session. In the second session for Dalton Timmis Insurance Pole, our top guns will have an added advantage around CTMP.”

At 2016 CSBK rounds, the Dalton Timmis Insurance SuperPole session establishes the top 10 positions on the starting grid for Saturday and Sunday’s Feature races, as well as awarding $2,000 in prize money to the top five and a Rockwell watch to the winner of DTI Pole Position.

Qualifying and each Pro Superbike race are covered in a 30-minute segment, broadcast on TSN.

“There is certainly an art, or a skill set, to getting the most out of a Qualifying tire,” explained Sandy Noce, owner of Dunlop Canadian National race tire distributor Pro 6. “You only get one or two laps at the most that provide the best from that ‘Q’ tire, but those laps could be as much as a second faster than what a good rider can achieve with a regular race tire.”

The special Dunlop slick ‘Q’ tire will be released to the top 10 riders after the opening portion of Dalton Timmis Insurance SuperPole, giving those racers sufficient time to place the new tire in warmers and adjust their motorcycle as they see fit for the increased traction.

“The Qualifying tire is not a race tire, and does not substitute for a race choice in our Dunlop slick line-up,” continued former Pro racer Noce. “This is something special, celebrating our third season as spec tire with the CSBK tour, and offering our best competitors the chance to add an extra dimension to their Qualifying efforts.”

In 2015, pole position for the Pro Superbike races at CTMP was taken by the Hindle Yamaha YZF-R1 of Alex Welsh of Uxbridge, Ont. Welsh turned a best ‘Q’ lap of 1:21.852 around the 4.03km-long, 10-turn, formerly-known-as-Mosport venue.

In the 2015 races, double winner Jordan Szoke of Lynden, Ont. set the fastest race time with his 2015 title-winning Express Lanes/Motovan BMW S1000RR. In Sunday’s second Pro Superbike round of the CTMP event, Szoke turned a fastest lap at 1:21.677 on his way to a perfect, seven-victory season.

Michael Martin. 25 years of adventure travels on the BMW GS

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Fri, 05 Aug 2016 14:10:00 +0000

Michael Martin has been travelling to the most distant corners of the earth for more than 30 years now and has become the world’s most renowned desert photographer. It was 25 years ago that the qualified geographer chose the motorcycle as his preferred expedition vehicle, actually a BMW R 100 GS, on which he undertook the Transafrica trip from Kenya to Cape Town.

Michael Martin has been travelling to the most distant corners of the earth for more than 30 years now and has become the world’s most renowned desert photographer. It was 25 years ago that the qualified geographer chose the motorcycle as his preferred expedition vehicle, actually a BMW R 100 GS, on which he undertook the Transafrica trip from Kenya to Cape Town.

“To me the motorcycle seemed to be the ideal means of transport for going on my long-haul adventure travels to the most remote parts of our planet. Compared to a car, it is very light and agile and narrow enough to travel even on narrow paths. It was thanks to the great enthusiasm of two BMW employees for Africa that my touring companions and I were able to set off on our dream motorcycle, the BMW R 100 GS. We were overjoyed. And then we even managed to convince Lufthansa to fly our machines to Nairobi free of charge. From there we started out on our first big project”, recalls the 53-year old.

Stephan Schaller, President BMW Motorrad: “Michael Martin and the BMW GS have been a dream couple for 25 years, a combination which could not be any more successful. Michael Martin’s work is unique worldwide and the demands he places on his expedition vehicle impressively show you well suited a BMW GS is for precisely this purpose. We are very happy that the partnership between Michael Martin and BMW Motorrad has been so successful for the last 25 years and look forward to continuing it.”

Exploring Africa was something Michael Martin simply wasn’t able to resist. In 1995 and 1998 he went on expeditions to the Nile and to the deserts of Africa. Now he was already in the saddle of an R 1100 GS.

“It was during this time I decided to concentrate above all on the topic of deserts. In 2000 I then began the project ‘Deserts of the Earth’. This time I was riding an R 1150 GS, which had once again improved on its predecessor’s qualities”, recalls Michael Martin.

In 2009 Michael Martin went travelling and photographing for his new project “Desert Planet”, now on an R 1200 GS Adventure which was virtually created for just such extreme demands. Because this time around Michael Martin not only explored the dry deserts, but also cold and ice deserts in the Arctic and Antarctic. Since then he has undertaken more than 40 voyages and expeditions. The resulting “Desert Planet” project is presented in multivision format, as a photo book, as a TV Series and in the form of an exhibition.

Michael Martin begins his “Desert Planet” presentation tour on 22 October 2016 and will be performing his fascinating multivision show until April 2017 in more than 100 German and 10 Austrian cities. For further information and ticket bookings please go to www.michael-martin.de.

Ducati Heads to Sturgis for Frist Time

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Thu, 04 Aug 2016 11:05:00 +0000

THE BLACK HILLS BECOME EVEN DARKER AS THE XDIAVEL DESCENDS UPON THE 76 ANNUAL STURGIS® MOTORCYCLE RALLY

Ducati Travels To Sturgis For First Time To Bring XDiavel Xperience Tour Demo Rides

And Unveil Custom XDiavel by Roland Sands Design

Italian performance motorcycle leader Ducati is heading to South Dakota this August for the first time to thrill the hundreds of thousands attending the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Ducati will be hosting various events throughout the rally between August 5 and August 13, which will include unveiling an XDiavel customized by Roland Sands Design (RSD) as well as test-riding opportunities.

"Sturgis is always a great place to get together with motorcyclists to celebrate our shared passion for two-wheels,” said Jason Chinnock, chief executive officer of Ducati North America. “2016 marks both the 90^th Anniversary and the launch of Ducati’s entry into the cruiser with the new XDiavel. This year is the perfect time to share the Ducati brand at the largest gathering of motorcyclists in the USA. To commemorate this event we have integrated into a number of activities and partnered with Roland Sands Design to build a custom version of the XDiavel. This build opens the door to a new world for customization of the XDiavel. Roland Sands Design is an important partner for us, and they bring their innovative design style to everything they do and we’re honored to unveil it at Sturgis.”

The action starts on Friday, August 5, when the Ducati XDiavel Xperience Tour rolls into town offering spirited test rides, daily, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Express Sturgis, located at 2721 Lazelle Street. In addition to the demo rides that will run through August 13, Ducati will be presenting its entire XDiavel product line, along with an XDiavel Lounge and XDiavel Café built on-site for guests to enjoy while experiencing the festivities.

On Monday, August 8^that 8 a.m. a group of XDiavels will join the Sturgis annual Mayor’s Ride with Sturgis’ Mayor Mark Carstensen as they ride through several of the Black Hill’s most spectacular two lane roads and byways, to support the Sturgis Volunteer Fire Department, Ambulance Service & Police Reserves.

The activities will continue on Tuesday at 1:00 p.m., August 9 when Ducati and Roland Sands unveils the XDiavel designed by RSD during a pool party at the Pappy Hoel Campground. Blue skies, cool water, live music, raffles and a bikini contest will highlight the event, which is co-sponsored by Ducati partners Bell helmets and Roland Sands Design.

Wednesday morning August 10^th the XDiavel crew will join AMA National Champions and former World Superbike competitors Ben and Eric Bostrom for their 3rd Annual Boz Bros Ride. Ben & Eric will treat the group to refreshments before the ride begins at “Sturgis Guns” located at 2324 Junction Ave, Sturgis SD 57785. Registration starts at 7:30 a.m. and departs on a 60-mile ride through the Black Hills. Lunch, beverages, and swag will be provided after the ride with all the “free will” proceeds going to the Sturgis Police Department.

After the Scrambler Ducati’s first win at the Super Hooligan flat track race in Austin with Jamie Robinson behind the bars, the Scrambler will return to the dirt track with the Super Hooligan race presented by RSD the evening of Wednesday, August 10. Ducati’s exclusive dealer in Nebraska, Ducati Omaha will campaign the flat track inspired Scrambler Flat Track Pro in stock trim with the exception of the removal of the front brake & headlight and the addition of a Termignoni slip-on exhaust. Come out to cheer on the Scrambler Ducati and Ducati Omaha team from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the infamous Sturgis Buffalo Chip during the Moto Stampede.

Sturgis Motorcycle Rally’s 76^th annual gathering is estimated to bring more than half-a-million motorcycle enthusiasts and spectators to the Black Hills of South Dakota. Since 1938, Sturgis has been one of the most significant American motorcycle rally's and has increasingly become a place for manufacturers from all over the world to celebrate motorcycle culture and share new products.

The XDiavel is Ducati’s new entry into cruiser motorcycles, with a relaxed riding position, belt final drive, low seat, and forward controls. Those interested in test rides can participate with a valid motorcycle license and proof of insurance. All riders must provide their own riding gear, including DOT-approved helmet, long-sleeved shirt or jacket, gloves, long pants, and over-the-ankle boots. Bell Helmets has kindly agreed to provide a selection of their helmets for demo riders to borrow should they need.

BMW Motorcycles selling well

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Thu, 04 Aug 2016 10:59:00 +0000

Motorcycles segment exceeds sales volume of 80,000 units for the first time in the first half of a year – sales guidance raised

The Motorcycles segment continues to perform well. At 46,966 units, second-quarter sales of BMW motorcycles and maxi-scooters worldwide remained at the previous year’s high level (47,048 units; -0.2%). Segment revenues totalled € 617 million in the second quarter, similar to one year earlier (2015: € 622 million; - 0.8%). Earnings, however, were down on the previous year, due to starting a number of projects which support the implementation of the Motorcycles segment’s new strategy. EBIT amounted to € 98 million (2015: € 112 million; -12.5%), while profit before tax finished at € 97 million (2015: € 112 million; -13.4%).

For the first time in the first half of a year, more than 80,000 motorcycles and maxi-scooters were delivered to customers during the first half of 2016. Sales volume during the period from January to June increased by 3.0% to 80,754 units (2015: 78,418 units) – the fourth successive record figure for the first half of a year. At € 1,199 million, segment revenues were at a similar level to the previous year (2015: € 1,189 million: +0.8%). EBIT amounted to € 192 million (2015: € 227 million; -15.4%), while profit before tax finished at € 191 million (2015: € 226 million; -15.5%). The Motorcycles segment’s sales volume performance is expected to improve further during the second half of the year thanks to its attractive and young model range. For the full year, a solid (previously: slight) increase in retail sales is expected.

BMW racer Jordan Szoke remains unbeaten in Canada.

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Sat, 02 Jul 2016 19:19:00 +0000

Canadian BMW racer Jordan Szoke (CA) continues his impressive winning streak in the Canadian Superbike Championship (CSBK). After winning the opening race of the 2016 season in Shannonville (CA), the Mopar Express Lane BMW Superbike Team rider also celebrated the victories in the second and the third races of the year, held at St. Eustache (CA) last weekend. Including last season, when he had a clean sweep with seven wins in seven races, Szoke has now won ten races in a row on his BMW S 1000 RR. In the championship standings, he extended his lead to 162 points with an advantage of 33 points. With his latest double win, Szoke also improved from 42nd to sixth place in the 2016 BMW Motorrad Race Trophy.

There was more reason to celebrate for the BWM Motorrad Motorsport community in St. Eustache, as Ben Young (GB / Ben Young Racing) also raced onto the podium on his BMW S 1000 RR in both heats, finishing third on both occasions. The strong result for the BMW riders was completed by Michael Leon (CA / Royal Distributing Racing Team), who was fifth in both races, and Samuel Trépanier (CA), who claimed two eighth places.

Victory Racing's Empluse RR & Project 156 Take The Checkered Flad at Pikes Peak

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Tue, 28 Jun 2016 11:01:00 +0000

Showcasing its Modern American Muscle powered both by gas and electric motors, Victory Motorcycles® is proud to announce that Victory Racing’s® electric Empulse® RR ridden by Cycle World’s Road Test Editor Don Canet and gas-powered Project 156™ piloted by Jeremy Toye accelerated away from the competition to win their respective classes at the 2016 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (PPIHC) and take second and third overall.”

“The hair-raising moment of my run came in a fast 100-mph sweeper approaching Upper Gravel Pit, which is well up the course. I slithered across an oil stain at the apex, then again crossing over the double yellow centerline. In a heart-stopping moment I ran out of road and was off on the dirt shoulder at high speed. Luck was on my side as I stood the bike upright and coasted along looking for the best spot to cut back onto the stepped pavement edge. The excursion completely killed my drive through the following flat-out right and straight that follows,” Canet says about his winning run on the Empulse RR in the PPC-Electric Motorcycle Class. “My hope for a King of the Mountain top time evaporated, however, as the downtime allowed the road to dry prior to the Heavyweight class contenders making their run, there's almost no way to fully prepare for the track conditions you'll see in the early morning runs.”

In the overall PPIHC motorcycle competition, Canet and the Empulse RR placed 2^nd while Toye and Project 156 placed 3^rd, both closely following veteran racer Corsican Bruno Langlois and his Kawasaki Z 1000 who benefitted from a dryer and warmer course later in the morning due to a series of red flags.

Canet and his Empulse RR clocked a time of 10:17.813 with an average speed of 69.9 mph through the 156-turn course that takes racers from 9,390 feet above sea level to the mountain’s summit of 14,115 feet above sea level. The 12.42-mile course is split into four sections. Canet zipped through the flowing section #1 in 1:50.531, steep section #2 in 2:26.924, technical section #3 in 2:53.568 and longer, high elevation section #4 in 3:06.790.

Toye rode Project 156 to the Pikes Peak summit in a time of 10.19.777 with an average speed of 69.7 mph. He and his Project 156 bellowed through section #1 in 1:52.520, section #2 in 2:27.213, section #3 in 2:53.375 and section #4 in 3:06.669.

“I think it’s a great month for Victory Motorcycles and a great month for America!” says Brian Wismann, Victory Racing Team Manager. “Imagine our brand first taking on the world’s best at the Isle of Man and achieving a podium there, then a couple of weeks later taking on the other epic race on the planet here at Pikes Peak and putting two bikes on the podium – one gas and one electric. I’d just like to really thank all of our sponsors in helping us race these bikes to the clouds in such a stellar way. Victory Motorcycles puts out a great team. I just want to let everyone know that everything we do at Isle of Man and everything we do at Pikes Peak makes it into our production bikes and that that is why we race.”

Victory Motorcycles was the only brand at this year’s PPIHC to race both electric and gas-powered race vehicles.

A race-prepped version of the Victory Empulse® TT, the Victory Empulse RR contended Pikes Peak to build upon the legacy of the motorcycle that took 3^rd Place in last year’s SES TT Zero Challenge on the Isle of Man with rider Lee Johnston. It is a completely different bike than the Victory RR that achieved a 2^nd Place podium finish with William Dunlop at this year’s recent Isle of Man competition.

While the base frame and overall design of the Empulse RR are essentially the same as the production Empulse TT, a more aerodynamic and lighter monocoque carbon-fiber subframe is used and the battery, controller, and Parker Hannifin-sourced motor have been upgraded with repackaged battery cells offering more capacity, new motor windings and an updated control system and wire harness. Visual differences from the version raced last year in the SES TT include an upright riding position, reduction of bodywork and the addition of hand guards.

Project 156 is a custom race bike built by Roland Sands Designs to serve as a test bed for a prototype engine Victory race technicians developed to analyze the limits of the powerplant that now propels the new Victory Octane™ production motorcycle.

Garnering what was learned from Project 156, the production version of the 1200cc Octane engine was born. Canet placed well in qualifying aboard Project 156 in 2015 but was unable to finish the run only a few miles from the top of the mountain due to a fueling issue. This year, the bike’s engine cooling, lubrication system and fuel system had been massaged to better deal with the dramatic changes in the elevation of the course – particularly at lower RPM to further help Toye squirt out of the tight switchbacks.

“Victory Motorcycles made history at Pikes Peak this past weekend, proving its Modern American Muscle with both electric and gas-powered motorcycles on what’s often referred to as America’s mountain,” says Rod Krois, General Manager of Victory Motorcycles. “The Empulse RR and Project 156 have proven to be important test platforms for Victory engineering and – as their results on the mountain show – are sure to pay dividends in future products.”

“Two years ago we didn’t have anything to compete with at the hill here,” says Nate Secor, Marketing Manager for Victory Motorcycles. “Now, having two of the three spots in the overall, all of our owners and all of the fans of American motorcycling should be proud. As a brand, we’re extremely proud of all of the work the guys have done on the engineering side and with the riders for putting us in this position. It is a long way to come in two years, and I don’t think anyone else in the world has a podium at the Isle of Man and at Pikes Peak in the same month. So we’re extremely proud of that and will be excited to get back here and make it happen again.”

Not only racing against time and competitors, the two Victory Racing motorcycles competed against each other in an epic gas vs. electric battle dubbed “Thunder vs. Lightning.”

Have you been a fan of #TeamThunder or #TeamLightning? Fans of Victory Motorcycles were invited to visit the Victory Motorcycles website to cast their vote regarding which bike, Thunder or Lightning, would be fastest up the mountain and to register for a chance to win a Victory Octane or Victory Empulse TT. The motorcycle given away will be the bike that received the most number of votes.

2016 Wiesner Insurance Ontario Enduro Championship

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Wed, 08 Jun 2016 10:49:00 +0000

This weekend WEC presents a special double header Enduro event at a new facility near Staffordville, ON.

On Saturday Round #1 of the 2016 Wiesner Insurance Ontario Enduro Championship kicks off. These events are for kids 18 years of age and younger. The course is a World Championship style special test Enduro format that racers are accustomed. Three interesting special tests are set along the trail loop where riders are timed to the 10th of a second. The tests and transfer trail are designed to be passable and entertaining for all ability levels from beginners on 50cc motorcycles to older kids on full sized bikes. Entry fee $30 per rider.

Sunday's event is the Mexican 500 Sprint Enduro Presented by Lang's Off Road. This fun one off event will utilize the same special test style Enduro format as Saturday but the course will be changed to include all of the challenging terrain this fantastic property has to offer. The course organizers have made a huge effort to put together some incredible special tests, including a long grass track in a hilly field, a large natural terrain motocross course, and a very interesting extreme test.

Any riders on full sized motorcycles can enter the Mexican 500. Classes will be set up on race day based on rider ability. Entry fees $50 per rider, racers must have a 2016 WEC registration which will be available at sign ($30 one time fee). Transponders will also be available at sign in $20 to rent or $40 to purchase.

Both events are completely off-road and no license plates or individual insurance is required.

For Sunday there will be over $2000 worth of prizes given away courtesy of Lang's off road.

A local food vendor will be set up both days - Hamburgers and hot dogs on Saturday and authentic Mexican food on Sunday. All the proceeds will go to a local Mennonite Charity. In addition a local photographer will be set up taking professional quality photos of all the participants which will be available for sale on site.

Basic camping is available for both Friday and Saturday night.

Directions - from main intersection in Staffordville (Heritage Line & Plank Rd) Go south on Plank Rd, turn right on Jackson Line, follow arrows to event.

For more WEC event information please visit our site at www.worldendurocanada.com

Victory Racing elated with a 115mph TT lap on the electric Victory RR in second practice

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Wed, 08 Jun 2016 10:48:00 +0000

Victory Racing elated with a 115mph TT lap on the electric Victory RR in second practice

· William Dunlop achieves a 115.431mph lap

· First ever sub-20 minute TT lap for Victory Racing

· Improvements continue

· “I’m ready to race this bike,” says William Dunlop

Victory Racing has charged forward in second practice for the SES TT Zero race with William Dunlop riding a 115.431mph lap.

He was 2.6mph faster than in first practice and just 3.3mph behind John McGuinness who posted the fastest lap time of 19:04.307 (a 118.7mph lap) compared to William’s 19:36.707.

It was also Victory Racing’s first ever sub 20-minute lap of the TT course in a week when rider Michael Dunlop broke the sub 17-minute mark in the Superbike race.

William achieved a top speed of 165mph through Crosby and 158.6mph through the Sulby speed trap. He was the fastest through the Grandstand hitting 146.1mph.

Team Manager, Brian Wismann, said: “I’m glad to be talking about speeds in the teens now, and not only are we in the teens we are now also fully below the 20 minute mark. We were also just one mph behind Bruce Anstey on the Mugen, who posted a 116.29mph lap – we are feeling very competitive.”

Subtle changes to the Victory RR bike for this practice included an improvement to the final drive gearing, a pressure change in the Metzeler RaceTec K2 tyres and a front-end suspension tweak by the team at K-Tech Suspension.

“We examined the data from the first practice and saw that we could improve on our corner speed,” Brian explains. “So this revised setup gave William more stability to run in faster through the corners.”

Performance in the TT Zero comes down to the initial amount of electrical energy that can be stored on-board and then it’s down to the skill of the rider to unleash this power while being mindful of how hard to push it, particularly towards the end of the lap when the dash starts to warn of low battery.

Brian adds: “We’re certainly discovering that trying to achieve just a 1mph increase in average lap speed takes a lot of effort.”

Brian is one of few people in the world who has ridden many electric street and race motorcycles and he says that the Victory RR really does feel fast compared to others he’s ridden and built.

“Riding the Victory RR feels like you’re floating,” he enthuses. “It’s a magic carpet ride, a really fast magic carpet.”

“In my early testing of the bike I’d look down at the speed and see I was at 156mph, but it felt more like 120mph. You really can go fast on this and William says he has the same sensation during the first and second practices.”

William was happy with breaking the 115mph mark and achieving sub 20-minute lap. He stepped off the Victory RR and simply said: “I’m ready to race this bike now.”

The increase in performance this year is down to a new battery and revised electric motor made by Parker. Called the Parker GVM electric motor, it’s cylindrical in shape and sits behind the swingarm’s pivot point. The core of the motor is eight inches (0.2m) in diameter and five inches (0.13m) long and generates 175hp giving around 165hp at the rear wheel.

It is 97% efficient; nearly all of the electrical energy drawn from the Brammo battery is converted in to kinetic energy to drive the chain and sprocket on the rear wheel.

Parker has designed an internal water-cooling system for the GVM motor. It resides within the motor, rather than creating a jacket around it; this way the smaller size achieved means that the motor has a much higher power density. Data from both practices show that the electric motor and the battery are remaining at their optimum temperatures showing that the cooling system that Brammo has developed for the bike is doing its job well – on a day when temperatures at the Isle of Man reached 25°C.

Parker’s US-based strategic account manager, Kevin Holloway, is on the Isle of Man to watch the racing and said: “When I saw William speed back through the Grandstand I knew it had been a fast lap and when I heard he’d broke the 115mph mark I was happy for the team achieving one of its goals. Wednesday is race day and we have more to give.”
The TT Zero race takes place at 16:25 on Wednesday 8^th June.

BMW R 5 - Custom meets heritage at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Wed, 25 May 2016 10:55:00 +0000

80 years ago, BMW presented the BMW R 5 to the international public - an exciting new technological development that was to influence motorcycle construction right through to the 1950s. Inspired by the 500 cc factory racing machine of 1935, it was one of the groundbreaking sports motorbikes of the late 1930s with its newly designed light frame. To mark the 80th anniversary of the BMW R 5, BMW Motorrad is honouring this icon at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2016 with a special model: the BMW R 5 Hommage.

The BMW R 5 Hommage translates the essence of motorcycling into the modern era, combining the world of historical motorcycle design with the modern world of custom bikes.

“At its debut, the R 5 was not only a masterpiece of engineering, the clarity of its lines and the elegance of its proportions also made it stand out clearly from the masses. To this day, the R 5 remains one of the most aesthetically appealing motorcycles in BMW history in my view,” says Edgar Heinrich, Head of Design BMW Motorrad. “In my opinion, its fascinating and unique beauty lies in its sheer simplicity,” adds Ola Stenegard, Head of Vehicle Design and Creative Director Heritage BMW Motorrad. “In today’s world it is very simple to keep it complicated, but very complicated to keep it simple. And the BMW R 5 captures the very essence of a motorcycle. Our aim was to transport its clarity and elegant aesthetic appeal to the modern era - creating a respectful combination of old-school and high-tech with a dash of high performance.”

Vintage meets custom.

The BMW R 5 Hommage shows just how well the world of historical motorcycles and the custom scene harmonise. At the core there is an original 500 cc Two-cylinder engine provided by motorcycle enthusiast Sebastian Gutsch. This boxer engine was damaged in a race and provided the starting point for creating the BMW R 5 Hommage.

As befits a custom bike, the homage bike was elaborately hand-crafted from scratch. Ronny and Benny Noren were called upon to produce the parts according to the specifications of the BMW Motorrad Design Team: the two brothers have been building tailor-made customer bikes for more than 30 years.

Historical core ...

The Two-cylinder 4-stroke boxer engine of the R 5 was completely newly designed at the time and had an output of 24 bhp at 5,500 rpm. The valve drive was taken care of by two camshafts powered by a timing chain. Thanks to the likewise newly designed frame made of electrically welded oval tubing, the light R 5 reached a top speed of 135 km/h, making it almost as fast as R 17 with 33 bhp 750 cc – which is one of the reasons it was so frequently used for racing, just like the engine selected for the BMW R 5 Hommage, which was damaged during a race. For the homage bike, numerous components such as the valve cover and the breastplate of the boxer engine were machined from billet aluminium based on sketches: they give the historical core a dash of modern flair.

... in a tailor-made custom outfit.

Two doyens of the custom bike scene, Ronny and Benny Noren, were the perfect partners for the BMW R 5 Hommage project when it came to providing a fitting outward appearance for the historical core and producing the missing parts for the engine and gearbox. The remaining parts gradually took shape in the Noren brothers’ workshop based on sketches by the BMW Motorrad Design Team. All parts such as the frame, fuel tank and rearfender are unique, elaborately hand-crafted components – making this a genuine custom bike. And most important of all: the newly fashioned parts clearly transport the original purist character of the R 5.

Timelessly elegant: the proportions.

The result is impressive: even from a distance the proportions convey the timeless beauty of a consistent reduction to the essentials – entirely true to the spirit of the R 5 – and translate this idea into the modern age. The frame and fuel tank echo the elegant drop shape of the original, though in a more modern, streamlined interpretation. The steering head is slightly more tilted, for example, so as to give the R 5 Hommage greater presence and expressive stance while at the same time underscore the fact that it belongs to the customer bike world. As far as the frame is concerned, the focus here was on the oval shaped tubes which were such a striking feature of the original. Together the frame and fuel tank draw a continuous line from the steering head to the rear wheel hub, giving the side view a touch of elegance. The hand-made steel rearfender perpetuates the minimalistic layout.

A modern interpretation of historical details.

A particularly defining feature in terms of the appearance of the original R 5 was the telescopic fork - new at the time - whose characteristic fork covers were aerodynamically shaped at the level of the headlamp. The BMW R 5 Hommage invokes this element and interprets it in modern style based on the custom made fork. The leading edge of the forkcovers echoes the “crease” on the breastplate and valve covers with a suggested interpretation of the typical “R 5 rib”. The brake and clutch levers activated from the bar-end likewise blend the past with state-of-the-art technology: these custom-made components combine the look of historical reversed levers with the adjustment options of modern controls.

Exquisite custom craftsmanship: supercharger, exhaustpipes and suspension.

The heart of the BMW R 5 rests within the minimalist proportions of the homage bike. The technical highlight of the engine is the specially developed supercharger, which in the BMW R 5 Hommage now significantly boosts the output of the original 500 cc power unit of 26 bhp to achieve a contemporary accurate level.

A completely newly built stainless steel exhaust system ensures that this increase in power is appropriately reflected in terms of sound.

Other contemporary accents are provided by the new rear wheel suspension, the modern piston brake system and the elaborately designed front and rear wheel hub. The latter combines the brake system and spoke mount in a single formal unit - a detailed reflection of the minimalistic concept embodied by the BMW R 5 Hommage.

The colour: classic BMW style yet still a true custom bike.

The BMW R 5 Hommage is presented in classic style when it comes to colour. The basic theme is typical BMW – black with white pinstripes, though interpreted in contemporary style of course. In addition to the opaquely finished surfaces, the so-called smoke finish on the fuel tank and rearfender allow the steel underneath to partially show through. In addition to the white pinstripes, the black finish on the fuel tank and rearfender especially comes into its own right, in perfect custom style, due to the metallic finish and a slight flake effect. The engine cases and gearbox in glass bead aluminium provide the perfect stage for the polished aluminium parts such as the machined breastplate and the valve covers with its “R 5 crease”. The soft lustre of the polished aluminium is especially reminiscent of the BMW R 5 originals. The overall image is rounded off with a handstitched leather seat with high-quality embossing.

Motorcycle Experience Newsletter May 20

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Wed, 25 May 2016 10:44:00 +0000

A letter from Dave at Motorcycle Experience.

Looks like a must watch episode!

Earlier this week I was out in the Ganaraska Forest just south of Kirby, Ontario, shooting a pile of new Red Adventure riding features with two of my favourite off-road riding buddies, Lawrence Hacking and Toni Sharpless. When it comes to off-road racing and riding, nobody knows more than Lawrence Hacking. This guy has raced in the International Six Days, the Baja 1000, the Mexican 1000 and the Paris to Dakar. Trust me, when we get together, I always learn something new. As for Toni, we go all the way back to 1990 when she made her first appearance on Motorcycle Experience testing a Yamaha FZR600. The first time I met Toni, I could tell that she had motor oil in her veins. Toni is such a spark and is always a pleasure to hang with. She’s raced professionally as a road racer at such prestigious events as the Daytona 200, the Suzuka 8 hour, the Bol d’Or and the 24 hours of LeMans. Now that’s an impressive resumé! More recently she’s been hitting the enduro trail here in Ontario and again, this gal has compiled an amazing wealth of knowledge when it comes to adventure riding. Be sure to check out her feature this week on the show. Anyway, we all had a blast out in the Gani. And speaking of Motorcycle Experience...

On this week’s edition of Motorcycle Experience, we will kick off the show by asking long time viewer, Mark Russell to sample Triumph Motorcycle’s hugely popular tribute to the café racers of the late 1960’s, the Thruxton. Then Norm Wells and I will continue our Ultimate Ride down in Las Vegas, Nevada. This year we’ve rented a couple of BMW GSs and we’re taking in the amazing scenery out in the Nevada desert. This week on day 2 we tackle the all important question of where to grab lunch.

On Shifting Gears, SMART riding instructor Clinton Smout looks at extending the riding season and Senior Editor Colin Fraser stops by to discuss the art of shopping for a used set of wheels, while looking back at Harley-Davidson’s 2007 Night Rod. And during this week's “Red Adventure” segment Toni Sharpless, will talk about what to wear under your adventure riding Jacket.

Also, don’t forget that I’ve been invited to head up to Whitehorse next month to help host their TELUS Ride For Dad event on June 11th. I plan to be there for the whole weekend as this is a super worthy cause and I’m sure that it’s going to be a blast. To date, some 250,000 people have helped to raise over 16 million dollars in the fight against prostate cancer and now you can add me to the growing number of folks who want to help out. There are some 40 communities across Canada hosting a Ride For Dad right now so please sign up and join a ride near you. You'll be glad you did.

Keep your right hand cranked!
Dave

Motorcycle Experience on TSN

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Thu, 19 May 2016 10:56:00 +0000

A message from Dave Hatch:

Well the wait and winter is finally over! May’s arrival means that it’s officially time to get out and ride and watch Motorcycle Experience on TSN.

This year we have changed our format slightly, added a new official charity for the show and picked up a new riding apparel supplier. First up, lets talk about the new show line up. Here’s what you'll see on this week's episode: On this jam-packed edition of Motorcycle Experience, we will kick off our 27th season on TSN by sampling Honda Canada's all new Africa Twin out in Victoria, BC. Then Norm Wells and I will kick start our 15th BMW Ultimate Ride down in Las Vegas, Nevada. This year we’ve rented a couple of GS’s from EagleRider and plan to double-down on some amazing scenery and roads out in the Nevada desert. Then, during our brand new “Red Adventure” segment, expert off road racer, Lawrence Hacking, will examine the exploding sport of adventure riding. On Shifting Gears, SMART riding instructor Clinton Smout tackles the sand and gravel and Senior editor Colin Fraser will wrap up the first episode by stopping by to discuss the art of shopping for a used set of wheels, all the while looking back at a 2006 Suzuki 650 bandit.

During many of these segments you’ll note that I’m now wearing the latest riding gear from Olympia Moto Sports. They came on board with us late last fall and, I gotta say, I really like how they design their products. The gear is really well made, fits me perfectly, and I like their price point. I was wearing one of their Expedition suits during the shooting of this year’s Ultimate Ride in Las Vegas and it was a perfect choice for the chilly (5 degrees every day) Nevada desert.

Also new for 2016 is our official charity, the Ride for Dad. I'm heading up to Whitehorse this summer to help host their TELUS Ride For Dad event on June 11^th. I plan to be there for the whole weekend as this is a super worthy cause. To date, some 250,000 people have helped to raise over 18 million dollars in the fight against prostate cancer and now you can add me to the growing number of folks who want to help out.

There are 40 communities across Canada hosting a Ride For Dad this year so please sign up and join a ride near you. You will be glad you did.

Keep your right hand cranked!

Dave

Victory Motorcycles Racing For a Return to the Podium at Isle of Man TT

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Thu, 19 May 2016 10:51:00 +0000

Victory Motorcycles^®, a brand that delivers Modern American Muscle by producing motorcycles with head-snapping acceleration, power and handling, is returning with the Victory Racing team to compete in the Isle of Man TT Zero race with an all-new electric race bike called the Victory® RR.

The Victory RR has been developed over the past year using data gathered during last year's TT Zero and will be ridden by William Dunlop.

“One way we continuously push ourselves in performance is through our Victory Racing initiatives,” says Alex Hultgren, Director of Marketing for Victory Motorcycles. “The Isle of Man TT is one of the most challenging motorcycle races in the world, so of course we have to be there.”

Victory’s international R&D development program is well underway and the Victory RR bike serves as a test bed for technology that will be used in the brand’s future products.

According to Brian Wismann, Victory Racing's team manager: “Our electric Empulse RR race bike placed third on the podium in the TT Zero race last year, which we were thrilled with. Using the data we gathered on our laps of the TT course has helped us to develop a new battery module as well as improving the powertrain. We feel like we can return to the TT with more performance as well as being able to test this technology for our future products.”

“This year with a new machine and new technology behind us we continue to have high expectations,” Hultgren adds. “We are working to develop the best platform for our racer, William Dunlop, who is familiar with the view from the podium.”

“The newly developed battery leverages the lessons learned from our entry in last year’s TT Zero event,” Wisemann says. “The battery is a ground-up new design with the help of our technical partners at Brammo and necessitated a big change in the chassis design – from an extruded aluminum twin spar to a steel trellis frame. The biggest difference in the battery itself is an improvement in both the overall energy / capacity we’re carrying onboard the bike, as well as a marked improvement in the energy density of the battery itself. As you know, lithium-ion battery technology is improving every year and with the Victory RR we are leading the way to batteries that will provide more performance, greater range and less cost in future vehicles.”

Some enhancements have also been made to the electric motor. Developed in partnership with Parker Hannifin, the motor is called the Parker GVM. It boasts world-class specific power (the power to weight ratio), producing a peak of over 170hp from a package that is only eight inches in diameter and five inches long. With peak efficiencies topping 97 percent, it is clear to see why Victory gets excited about the potential of this powertrain for future products.

“Compared to the electric motor we used in the TT Zero event last year, this year’s version features an even further optimized winding configuration based on the data gathered from last year’s bikes,” Wismann says. “Coupled with the increased energy on board in the battery, William Dunlop will have access to more of the power available from this motor than in 2015.”

The first practice for the TT Zero is scheduled for Friday June 3 at 8:40 p.m. A second practice takes place on the Monday June 6 at 4:25 p.m., and the race itself begins Wednesday June 8 at 4:20 p.m.

Visit www.victorymotorcycles.com/en-us/isle-of-man for more information about Victory Racing at the Isle of Man TT. Learn more about Victory Motorcycles at VictoryMotorcycles.com or follow on Twitter and Facebook.

TECH SPEC VICTORY® RR

Length/Width/Height (mm.)	2089 / 680 / 1218
Seat Height (in.)	32
Weight (kg)	240
Front Tire	Metzeler 120/70 R17
Rear Tire	Metzeler 200/60 R17
Frame	Trellis Steel and Composite Monocoque
Motor	Parker GVM Water-cooled, 3-phase, IPM AC
Max Power (kW/HP)	130 / 174
Max Torque (Nm)	240
Battery	Brammo Power Lithium-Ion
Battery Voltage (Vdc)	370 or more

Yamaha brings back the Factory Ride Award for 2016

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Sun, 24 Apr 2016 09:07:00 +0000

For 2016, Yamaha Motor Canada is pleased to bring back their popular and newly rebranded ‘Yamaha bLU cRU Factory Ride’ award. One award will be given at each of the three biggest amateur motocross events in Canada. Last year’s big winners were Kyle Biro (WCAN), William Mirreault and Nick Denniston (ECAN), and Marco Cannella (TransCan). Each won a ‘Factory Ride’ in addition to a $2500 parts credit!

This year, Yamaha has adopted the bLU cRU program from the United States and brought it north to Canadian riders to further offer amateur racing support.

Bryan Hudgin, Yamaha’s Race Director commented, “Right now we already have Canadian amateur riders like Marco Cannella and Jake Tricco being supported by bLU cRU while riding in the U.S. so making this a North American program makes sense. What’s great about the ‘Yamaha bLU cRU Factory Ride’ award is, not only do the winners get the use of a new YZ of their choice for the next race season but they also can use the parts credit for our GYTR and Yamalube lines as well as our affiliated brands like One Industries, Factory Effex, Matrix and Cycra.

With the award available at the Raymond Western Canadian Amateur National (July 1-3, 2016), Deschambault Grand National Amateur Championship (August 4-7, 2016) and at the Walton TransCan (August 17-21, 2016). Hudgin went on to discuss the importance of giving one award away at each event, “The ‘Yamaha bLU cRU Factory Ride’ award gives amateur Yamaha riders from coast to coast a chance to earn this prize. We want to show customers our commitment to amateur racing and our appreciation for their business.”

How Do You Win?
Of all the Yamaha riders at each event, the winning rider must attain the most cumulative points for their finishes.
The Rules:
• Contest open only to amateur Yamaha riders.
• You must be a resident of Canada.
• Your Yamaha must be a Canadian purchased unit.
• Rider cannot be an employee of Yamaha Motor Canada or one of its dealerships.
• Winner is only eligible for one prize. (Cannot win at multiple events)

Hudgin concluded, “If you race Raymond, Deschambault or Walton, make sure you’re doing it on a Yamaha. You may ride for free in 2017 on a ‘Yamaha bLU cRU Factory Ride’!”

Zach Ness reveals "Combustion" concept based on new Victory Motorcycles engine

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Sat, 23 Apr 2016 19:13:00 +0000

Victory Motorcycles revealed the final instalment in their 1200cc concept series at the International Motorcycle Show in New York City. This concept, called “Combustion,” is powered by the production version of the engine that made its debut last month at EICMA in Milan. It was built by Zach Ness of Arlen Ness Motorcycles in Dublin, California and revealed at the Unions Garage in Brooklyn, NY just prior to its public showing at the International Motorcycle Show in New York City.

“Our family has a long-standing relationship with Victory Motorcycles customizing many Victory production bikes in the past,” says Zach Ness, third generation custom builder and grandson of the “Godfather of Customs,” Arlen Ness. “It’s always fun to look into the future – so to have the trust of Victory to create a more conceptual bike has been great. Also, as one of the first to ride this new engine it absolutely RIPS!”

This Ness concept follows the Milan, Italy EICMA reveal of a concept bike built by Urs Erbacher of Switzerland. His concept bike known as “Ignition” took the first pre-production engine and wrapped it in an aggressive sport-bike inspired stance intended to satisfy needs of European riders.

Both the Ignition Concept and the Combustion Concept are propelled by production-intent engines that will power a new model Victory Motorcycle to be revealed in 2016. The Engine is a 1200cc liquid cooled 60 degree V-Twin design with four valves per cylinder that will deliver the kind of engine performance enthusiast riders find exhilarating.

“This new engine platform offers the most versatility in American Motorcycling.” says Motorcycle Product Director Gary Gray. “Both concepts, Ignition and Combustion, are intended to show what this motor is capable of in very distinct, visual forms. While the bikes are very different, the powertrain is capable of delivering the performance required of the look in both cases.”

“Victory Motorcycles have taken a strong positioning as the Modern American Muscle brand,” says Steve Menneto, President of the Polaris Motorcycles Division. “We are excited about our path for this brand. Our latest work will complement the existing line-up of motorcycles powered by the award-winning Freedom 106 design.”

BMW Motorrad increases sales in the first quarter

noreply@blogger.com (CanadianMotorcycleRider) — Sat, 23 Apr 2016 19:07:00 +0000

BMW Motorrad achieves its best start into the new motorcycle season to date with a solid growth of 7.7 %. In the first three months of 2016, 33,788 motorcycles and maxi scooters were delivered to customers (prev. yr.: 31,370 units). 2.418 units more than in the equivalent period last year. In March

BMW Motorrad delivered 16,465 vehicles worldwide (prev. yr.: 15,912 units) amounting to a 3.5 % growth in sales.

Heiner Faust, BMW Motorrad Head of Sales and Marketing: "BMW Motorrad has started into the new 2016 motorcycle season with the best first quarterly sales of all time. With a solid growth of 7.7%, BMW Motorrad remains firmly on course for success following the record year in 2015. The current model range is very popular with our customers. This is also reflected by the high number of incoming orders. We are expecting are very positive business performance this year, too.”

In the first quarter BMW Motorrad recorded growth above all in Europe and Asia. Developments are especially positive in Spain (2,190 units, +39.2 %), Italy (3,125 units, +6.4 %) and Great Britain (1,984 units, +9.2 %). Germany still remains the strongest single market with 5,668 units (+5.6 %) followed by France (3,230 units, + 2.4 %). In China BMW Motorrad has increased sales by 74.4 % to 853 units sold.

The BMW Motorrad sales ranking is still headed by the R 1200 GS travel enduro and its sister model, the R 1200 GS Adventure. In the first three months already more than 11,391 flat-twin GS motorcycles have been delivered to customers worldwide. Next on the list of the most sought-after models is the BMW S 1000 RR (2,385 units) and the BMW S 1000 XR (2,206 units).

Heiner Faust comments: “Naturally last year’s new models are strongly contributing to growth, for example the R 1200 RS sports tourer and the S 1000 XR Adventure bike. However, our spring business is a result of our strong overall model range. Even in its third year on the market, the ultimate travel enduro, the R 1200 GS Adventure, is continuing to achieve ever higher sales figures. Sales of our long running F Series, the F 700 GS and F 800 GS, also exceed last year's sales overall. Our new C 650 maxi scooters, launched at the turn of the year, are also fully on target.”

Tough endurance test for both customers and R 1200 GS at the GS Trophy 2016

The 5. BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy, probably the most unique motorcycle customer event worldwide, ended on 5. March after seven tough days of competition. This time it was held in Thailand. In this year’s edition, 19 teams from a total of 25 countries took part. On their seven-day trek covering more than 1,300 km through the forests, jungles and mountains of Northern Thailand, the participants not only put their riding skills to the test, but their endurance and team spirit as well. With temperatures far exceeding 30° C and very humid conditions, this was one of the most strenuous GS Trophies. The 114 motorcycles involved covered a total distance of 150,000 km under the toughest conditions.

Heiner Faust comments: “Once again the flat-twin GS bikes proved their stuff. There were no technical failures in this merciless event for man and machine. Participants praised the BMW cult enduros for their ease of operation, their robustness and their unbelievable on and off road potential.

The participants battled it out right up until the end. Following a thrilling finish, Team South Africa managed to take first place. It kept its nerve and took the first victory for its country at this event.