Motorcycle, rider, miracle of birth. All shot on a Nikon D800. By ‘Sandro‘.

The Swiss Peraves MonoTracer promises low fuel consumption with protection from the elements.

The MonoTracer is a fully enclosed two-wheeler boasting a sporty, aerodynamic look and very low consumption. As a new version of the ECOMOBILE, a vehicle purely functional in design, the MonoTracer rounds off this unique class of machines by incorporating state-of-the-art design features. Peraves have built 90 MonoTracer prototypes called ECOMOBILEs and these have notched up, cumulatively over 12 million kilometres over the past 20 years. In 1996 10 ECOMOBILEs travelled from Atlanta to Montana and back, 11,000 kilometres in 3 weeks. The desert heat in Arizona and icy Rocky Mountain weather resulted in no technical problems for the ECOMOBILEs.

According to Peraves, the best motorcycle tires for highway use on the market today allow a lean angle of about 55 degrees. Apparently out of every 100 superbike owners in the GSX-R, Fireblade, Ninja, K1200S, R1 and 999R league maybe 20 have ever leaned their machines beyond 40 degrees. A maximum of 5 will regularly tip more than 45 degrees. Most of those sporty riders will limit their angle of lean by excessive “hanging off”, thus also limiting their speed in the curve. The MonoTracer with its “knee” (the retracted stabilizer tire) skimming the road, can lean to about 52 degrees and it has a turning circle and corner speed otherwise only achievable on a top-of-the-range sports bike. Of course, dry, clean and safe roads are an essential requirement for such antics.

Just when you think this might be the answer to skyrocketing fuel prices, comes the whopper price: 52,500 Euros (basic price) without VAT. I wonder how it will perform in traffic jams. Can it U-turn?

YOUTUBE VIDEO

TECHNICAL DATA
VEHICLE & BODY STRUCTURE
Self-supporting composite-monocoque made from glass-, kevlar- and carbon
tissues bonded by epoxy-resin reinforced with crash and roll bars. Engine frame,
steering head and stabilizer axles made from aircraft grade alloy steel.
Front suspension Marzocchi 50mm USD-fork, rear Monolever shaft swingarm.
Gull-wing-door with integrated sunroof, opening to the left.
Glazing made from tinted PMMA in aviation quality.
Baggage compartment of 200 Litres in the rear.

MECHANICS
4 cylinder-in-line-BMW-K-engine 1171 ccm, 16 valves, liquid cooling.
Dry reinforced monodisc clutch. Sequential PG-gearbox with 4 forward speeds and
electrically unlockable reverse, shifted by push-button-selector on left handlebar.
Automatic clutch optional.
Reinforced BMW-shaft drive.
3 brake discs 320 mm Ø with 4-piston-hydraulic callipers, fully integrated
electronic ABS. Ceramic brake discs and brake pads, ASP anti spin control optional.
Electrical stabilizer servo system, computer-supervised with cycle-time < 0,5 sec.
Semi-automatic, hydraulically operated softmode system optional.

EQUIPMENT & ACCESSORIES
RECARO-contour-seats with 3-point-automatic-safety belts.
Interior covers in high-tech-tissues and sound proofing padding.
Airconditioned + heated ventilation system of ample flow with intake air filter.
GPS-RDS-4LSP-audio-system.
Tempomat cruise control, frontal airbag, Bi-Xenon-lights, CD-players optional.

OPERATION
Motorcycle-type handlebars with extended functions. Clutch pedal left, gear- and
stabilizer-ops-switches left, integrated brake ops by pedal, aux-brake-lever and
twist-throttle right.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Empty weight: 460-485 kgs. depending on options
Max. weight: 685 kgs.
Tank capacity: 50 ltrs. / 14 USG
Dimensions: L = 3,65 m B = 1,25 m
(Stabilizers up) 1,40 m (down) H = 1,52 m
Service: 25.000 km / 15‘000 miles or annually – whichever is first
Engine: 96 kW / 130 HP at 8750/min, max. torque 117 Nm at 6750/min
Motronic-controlled injection
3-way-catalytic converter.
Acceleration: 0-100 kph = 5,7 sec.
Top speed: > 250 kph.
Brake distance: 100-0 = 43 m
Turning circle between walls: 8.5 m
Consumption(ISO 7118): 4,15 l/100km at constant 90 kph
5,05 l/100km at constant 120 kph

Basic price ex factory € 52‘500.- (+ local VAT)

2 years warranty / 25 years use guaranteed for composite + metal structures

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The BMW Motorrad Motorsport team’s second stop on the ’08 World Enduro Championship tour saw team riders Anders Eriksson, Simo Kirssi, Jeff Goblet and Bert Meyer compete in the GP of Portugal – an event that proved to be anything but easy due to an extremely challenging course, three demanding special tests and heavy rain on day two. With Eriksson having narrowly missed a podium result at the opening round of the series in Sweden, the Portuguese event marked the first international enduro competition in which Eriksson would compete, outside of Sweden, aboard his BMW.

Hopeful of challenging for a podium finish in the Enduro 3 class things didn’t go as planned for Anders on day one as he failed to finish due to a clutch problem. Re-starting day two the experienced Swede was unable to perform at his best in the extremely wet and difficult conditions and placed ninth in the highly competitive E3 class. Despite being forced to retire on day one, Anders finished the harder second day’s competition without problems.

In the Enduro 2 class BMW Motorrad Motorsport rider Simo Kirssi overcame his lack of World Enduro Championship experience to claim a solid top 10 result on day two having enjoyed the slippery and difficult conditions. Competing in only his second ever WEC event Simo was disappointingly unable to finish day one as on the penultimate special test he badly damaged his front wheel, which resulted in his retirement. On day two Kirssi finished comfortably inside the top 10 having ridden consistently all day. Finishing as high as fourth in class, and only twice placing outside the top 10 of the E2 class during the day’s nine special tests, Kirssi finished just 11 seconds behind the E2 class’s sixth placed rider.

For Kirssi’s E2 class team-mate Jeff Goblet the GP of Portugal proved to be a difficult one with the Belgian finishing in 12th on day one and 13th on day two. Performing at his best on the technical extreme test on day one, on day two Goblet suffered bad luck as his chain twice came off in the extreme test while he struggled to perform at his best in the muddy motocross test. In the Enduro Junior class Bert Meyer finished on day one as tenth but placed ninth on day two.

Simo Kirssi – Enduro 2:
“The first day ended disappointingly for me. Things had been going ok but in the final motocross test I landed from one of the many drop-off jumps and I heard a strange metallic sound. I was able to continue but I had damaged many of the spokes in my front wheel, which meant that I had to retire from the day. Day two was much better – I really enjoyed the conditions although on the motocross test it was really, really muddy. I learned a lot from the race. It was my first world championship race in normal conditions, and it was every bit as difficult as I expected it to be.”

Jeff Goblet – Enduro 2:
“I had some really good times in the extreme and enduro tests on day one but I really struggled in the muddy conditions on day two. With this season being my first on a four-stroke I knew it would take me some time to adjust to competing in muddy conditions. In the enduro test, which was dry, I was able to put in some good test times. But in the motocross and extreme test I struggled. Also, my chain came off twice in the extreme test. I need more time on the bike in these types of conditions, and then I am sure my results will improve.”

Anders Eriksson – Enduro 3:
“Not being able to finish the first day was a big disappointment, but I came into this season knowing that these things can happen. We learn more and more every day we spend time on the bike. I had a problem with the clutch, which was very strange. I didn’t ride that well, but I’m happy that I was able to finish the second day. Day two was extremely tough and my bike ran perfectly all day, which was good. It was the first time that I’d ridden the bike in such muddy conditions and although I wasn’t overly happy with my riding the bike performed really well.”

Wolfgang Fischer – BMW Motorrad Motorsport Team Manager:
“It was good to see all riders finish on day two, especially Simo as this was his first real world championship enduro race. Finishing seventh in the Enduro 2 class is very encouraging. Day one was a little disappointing as Anders Eriksson had a problem with his clutch. We’re not 100 per cent sure why he had the problem that he did but he finished day two without any troubles at all. The conditions were about as difficult as they get in world championship competition. It’s the first real mud race that the team has faced this year and despite the few problems on day one the fact that all riders completed the hardest day – day two, without problems was great.”

Results Grand Prix of Portugal – Day 1

ENDURO 2
1. Johnny Aubert (Yamaha) 49:13.71; 2. Juha Salminen (KTM) 49:14.30; 3. Joakim Ljunggren (Husaberg) 51:18.58; 4. Alessandro Belometti (KTM) 51:20.26; 5. Fabio Mossini (Honda) 51:51.68; 6. Nicolas Paganon (Aprilia) 52:0.71; 7. Fabrizio Dini (Yamaha) 52:08.31; 8. Rodrig Thain (TM) 52:12.27; 9. Jari Mattila (Honda) 52:13.81; 10. Nicolas Deparrois (Gas Gas) 52:36.47; 11. Alessandro Zanni (Honda) 52:48.87; 12. Jean Francois Goblet (BMW Motorrad Motorsport) 53:14.12; 13. Valtteri Salonen (Husaberg) 53:16.09; 14. Andrea Belotti (KTM) 53:42.12; 15. Helder Rodrigues (Honda) 53:50.42; 16. Rudy Cotton (Honda) 55:34.78; 17. Felipe Zanol (Yamaha) 57:25.53; 18. Mario Patrao (Suzuki) 58:00.25

ENDURO 3
1. Samuli Aro (KTM) 50:55.42; 2. Marko Tarkkala (KTM) 51:06.96; 3.Marcus Kehr (KTM) 51:19.94; 4. Christophe Nambotin (Gas Gas) 51:25.46; 5. Fabien Planet (KTM) 51:28.46; 6. Sebastien Guillaume (Husqvarna) 51:40.74; 7. Bjorne Carlsson (Husaberg) 51:52.62; 8. Stefan Merriman (Aprilia) 52:06.37; 9. Xavier Galindo (KTM) 52:13.72; 10. Antoine Letellier (Aprilia) 52:16.88; 11. Alessandro Botturi (Honda) 52:23.42; 12. Alessio Paoli (Beta) 53:46.90; 13. Juan Pedrero (Yamaha) 53:58.21; 14. Jordi Figueras (KTM) 54:15.07; 15. Stefan Svitko (KTM) 54:41.01; 16. Vita Kuklik (KTM) 55:17.79; 17. Euan McConnell (TM) 55:38.28; 18. Gordon Clarke (TM) 58:52.89

ENDURO JUNIOR
1. Marc Bourgeois (Husqvarna) 51:28.17; 2. Oriol Mena 52:33.30; 3. Oscar Balletti (Honda) 53:12.63; 4. Carlos Andreu (KTM) 53:29.69; 5. Simon Wakely (Husqvarna) 53:44.57; 6. Gregory Evans (KTM) 54:24.52; 7. Thomas Oldrati (KTM) 51:25.65; 8. Lorenzo Santolino (KTM) 53:27.34; 9. Lucas Puerta (Yamaha) 54:24.09; 10. Bert Mayer (BMW Motorrad Motorsport) 55:52.34; 11.Guillem Pares (Yamaha) 56:52.32; 12. Ashley Wood (Honda) 58:27.00; 13. Roman Dumontier (Husqvarna) 1.03:07.95; 14. Roger Sanllehi (Honda) 1.05:40.14; 15. Marc Sola (KTM) 1.06:48.98; 16. Mark Risse (Gas Gas) 1.07:52.66; 17. Concelo Bandeira (Suzuki) 1.14:53.80

Results Grand Prix of Portugal – Day 2

ENDURO 2
1. Juha Salminen (KTM) 54:12.03; 2. Johnny Aubert (Yamaha) 54:43.01; 3. Valtteri Salonen (Husaberg) 56:09.00; 4. Alessandro Belometti (KTM) 56:09.27; 5. Nicolas Paganon (Aprilia) 56:27.15; 6. Fabrizio Dini (Yamaha) 57:09.97; 7. Simo Kirssi (BMW Motorrad Motorsport) 57:20.95; 8. Jari Mattila (Honda) 58:05.47; 9. Fabio Mossini (Honda) 58:32.42; 10. Rodrig Thain (TM) 58:56.35; 11. Aaron Bernadez (Husqvarna) 59:14.03; 12. Freddy Blanc (Suzuki) 59:45.06; 13. Jean Francois Goblet (BMW Motorrad Motorsport) 1.00:38.36; 14. Andrea Belotti (Honda) 1.01:08.61; 15. Nicolas Deparrois (Gas Gas) 1.01:12.35; 16. Filipe Zanol (Yamaha) 1.02:00.05

ENDURO 3
1. Christophe Nambotin (Gas Gas) 55:17.58; 2. Samuli Aro (KTM) 55:40.23; 3. Marcus Kehr (KTM) 55:43.86; 4. Stefan Merriman (Aprilia) 55:49.05; 5. Marko Tarkkala (KTM) 56:11.82; 6. Fabien Planet (KTM) 56:31.41; 7. Bjorne Carlsson (Husaberg) 56:43.32; 8. Sebastien Guillaume (Husqvarna) 57:20.92; 9. Anders Eriksson (BMW Motorrad Motorsport) 57:25.05; 10. Xavier Galindo (KTM) 58:21.19; 11. Antoine Letellier (Aprilia) 58:38.62; 12. Euan McConnell (TM) 1.00:06.88; 13. Vita Kuklik (KTM) 1.00:16.13; 14. Stefan Svitko (KTM) 1.00:03.07; 15. Juan Pedrero (Yamaha) 1.01:42.55; 16; Jordi Figueras (KTM) 1.03:08.23

ENDURO JUNIOR
1. Tomas Oldrati (KTM) 55:.29; 2. Marc Bourgeois (Husqvarna) 56:28.39; 3. Anti Hellsten (Husqvarna) 59:32.84; 4. Victor Guerrero (KTM) 59:54.91; 5. Lucas Puerta (Yamaha) 1.00:40.82; 6. Simon Wakely (Husqvarna) 1.00:43.01; 7. Lorenzo Santolino (KTM) 1.00:59.55; 8. Martin Kuklik (KTM) 1.03:37.35; 9. Bert Mayer (BMW Motorrad Motorsport) 1.03:32.43; 10. Adrian Metge (Husqvarna) 1.05:08.68; 11. Ollie Moyce (Yamaha) 1.07:13.23; Guillem Pares (Yamaha) 1.07:33.24 Sundin (Husaberg) 56:27.86; 20.Carl Sjoo (KTM) 56:30.38

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A couple of years back I was a little (but not totally) surprised to hear that Sachs Motorcycles had subcontracted not only the engine but the entire production of their MadAss motorcycle to Guangzhou Panyu Huanan Motors of China, and the Italjet Grifon was little more than a rebodied Hyosung GT650. Sachs designed the bike though, and was a small company. Italjet probably didn’t have the funds to develop a large capacity motorcycle from the ground up.

G450X MOTOR

A real shocker, however, is that the latest BMW motorcycle from BMW Motorrad, the G450X, will be using a 449cc, DOHC four-stroke single cylinder engine manufactured in Kaoshiung, Taiwan by Kwang Yang Motor Co. Ltd. (KYMCO).

Kymco is a Taiwanese company which manufactures motor scooters, motorcycles, and ATVs. It is the largest scooter manufacturer in Taiwan and was founded in 1963 to make parts for Honda. They built their first complete scooter in 1970 and began marketing its products under the “Kymco” brand name in 1992. Kymco has roughly 3000 employees, and produces over 480,000 vehicles per year.

BMW Motorrad’s EVP for Development and Model Lines, Peter Müller has assured that BMW and its partners have developed a dedicated production line for the G450X, which will be assembled at BMW’s motorcycle production plant in Berlin, and will deliver the quality expected of a BMW. The G450X was unveiled at the November 2007 EICMA show in Italy, and was tested and refined at European enduro events throughout 2007.

SOURCE

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The Essential Buyer’s Guide

BMW GS
By Peter Henshaw
Available now!
ISBN 9781845841355 / UPC 636847041359
£9.99 UK / $19.95 USA

Stop! Don’t buy a BMW GS without this book!

* The BMW GS is currently in the public eye – made famous by the film Long Way Round starring Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman
* The GS has been in production for over 25 years, with many, many thousands sold
* Complete guide to buying a secondhand GS
* Ownership advice – is it the right bike for you?
* Where to look for problems
* 10min and 30min evaluation checklist, and unique points system
* Auction guide
* Spares prices
* Lists of useful contacts in the GS Community
* How to get the paperwork right
* Get the right bike at the right price!

DESCRIPTION
BMW’s GS series is one of the world’s milestone motorcycles and has been in production for over 25 years. It pioneered the ‘adventure sport’ category big bikes that are capable of travelling off-road and, in many ways, it’s the Range Rover of motorcycling. It’s now more popular than ever, thanks in part to the massive publicity surrounding the film Long Way Round starring Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman.

THE AUTHOR
Peter Henshaw has had an enthusiasism for anything with wheels from an early age – from bicycles to 500hp tractors. He was the Editor of Motorcycle Sport & Leisure for five years before going freelance, and now contributes to a whole range of transport magazines including MSL, TAG, A to B and Tractor, as well as The Telegraph. He’s also written over 30 books, including 10 about bikes, and is an all-year-round motorcyclist who does not own a car.

SPECIFICATION
Paperback. 64 pages. 195mm tall x 139mm (711⁄16in tall x 57⁄16in). 100 pictures.

MORE INFORMATION
View sample pages and sample text on the website – <http:/www.veloce.co.uk>

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BMW Motorrad dealerships around the UK are gearing up for BMW’s nationwide customer event on 08 March. BMW’s New Season Launch takes place on Saturday 08 March and one of the highlights of this year’s nationwide event will be the first appearance in Motorrad showrooms of the all-new F 650 GS and F 800 GS models. From this date Motorrad dealerships will be offering customers a first opportunity to test ride two of the most eagerly anticipated BMW motorcycles in recent years.

With the up-rated 2008 models of the R 1200 GS and its Adventure derivative already launched, the latest additions to BMW’s ground-breaking adventure sport genre are the sophisticated parallel-twin F 650 GS and F 800 GS .

F 650 GS
The F 650 GS, despite its familiar designation, is a completely new machine. Along with its bigger brother, the F 800 GS, it is powered by BMW’s hi-tech and highly praised 798cc parallel-twin engine – albeit with 71 hp in a softer state of tune than in the F 800 S and ST street versions. This configuration provides plenty of power with excellent fuel economy. The bike’s low seat height and light-touch controls make the F 650 GS an easy to handle all-rounder, ideal for everyday use, and perfect for newcomers to motorcycling.

F 800 GS
The all-new F 800 GS expands BMW Motorrad’s class-leading tradition into the middleweight adventure sports category. The overall package combines balance, low weight and full 85 hp power with excellent ground clearance and long suspension travel. The result is a machine with impressive off-road performance combined with outstanding touring capabilities.

Technically, of course, there is much more. However, the most pleasing specification must surely be the price. The F 650 GS and F 800 GS retail at £5,495 and £6,695 (OTR) respectively.

To celebrate the New Season Launch, visitors to BMW’s UK dealer showrooms are eligible to enter a draw for the chance to win a place on the World of BMW ‘Roads to Morocco’ tour in April. The winner of the draw and a pillion passenger will explore the excellent and diverse roads of a truly beguiling country on a BMW-supplied R 1200 GS. They will also be able to enjoy the atmosphere of countless bustling souks, and stimulate their individual taste buds on Morocco’s unique and aromatic cuisine. It will be the trip of a lifetime for one lucky couple and worth over £2000.

BMW Motorrad Marketing Manager Tony Jakeman said: “BMW Motorrad is offering this fantastic trip to Morocco to mark BMW’s ‘Year of the Enduro’. Appropriately, the new F series GS models are ideal for adventure motorcycling, but are also comfortable in an urban environment. We would encourage customers to try these, or any of our range of exciting new motorcycles, for themselves. Besides, who would want to miss the chance of a free ride to Morocco?”

The New Season Launch is a BMW Motorrad event held specifically to introduce existing and future customers to the company’s new 2008 products. Taking place at every Motorrad dealership across the UK (Scotland excluded) the event features all new BMW motorcycles; the newest clothing in the Rider Equipment collection; a full range of touring accessories; information on new BMW Insurance products and incentives, and dedicated loans and packages from BMW Financial Services.

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For those of you who missed Chris Pfeiffer, or ‘CP‘ as he is sometimes called, here are some pics for you to enjoy. Here, he shows Malaysians how a skilled hooligan biker does tricks during an exhibition by BMW Malaysia in Melaka to help promote the BMW Sauber F1 effort at Sepang International Circuit. CP, from Germany, has been riding since he was 5 years old and is 37 now. Sponsored by Red Bull, CP has won tons of stunt championships and rides a BMW F800S.

For more info on CP check out his website www.chrispfeiffer.com. You can read more about his cool BMW F800S stuntbike here.

Photographer: Daniel Reinhard

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BMW Boxer Fans – Reach for Your Checkbooks

BMW Motorrad USA has revealed that the BMW HP2 Sport, arriving soon at US BMW Motorrad retailers, will have a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of US$25,375 (excluding taxes, license, options, and handling charge) and a destination charge of US$495. The high-performance HP 2-cylinder Boxer is the third motorcycle in the HP model range customized to meet the requirements of sporty BMW bike fans.

The HP2 is the sportiest, most powerful and lightest Boxer ever manufactured, and follows in the footsteps of the HP2 Enduro and the HP2 Megamoto. The BMW HP2 features numerous exclusive details, previously restricted to racing, that were never before offered in a series production BMW motorcycle. Technology such as the self-supporting and aerodynamically optimized fairings made completely of CFK, the gear shift assistant, a dashboard similar to that used in the MotoGP, the forged aluminum wheels and brakes with radially mounted calipers make the HP2 perform optimally on roads in the country and on track days too.

The most striking difference between the BMW HP2 Sport from the endurance racing Boxer is the brand new cylinder heads: each of the double overhead camshafts (DOHC) uses a drag lever to actuate the valves that are larger than those on the BMW R 1200 S. Further modifications, such as the flow-optimized intake and outlet, new forged pistons and adapted connecting rod, help the engine to achieve the necessary higher output compared to the basic engine.

A new stainless steel exhaust system is placed below the engine for the first time, keeping the lower area of the motorcycle extremely slim for greater freedom of movement for a “hanging off” riding position. Although designed for racing prowess, the BMW HP2 Sport does not forego the safety benefits of ABS. A sophisticated antilock brake system, specially adapted to the HP2 Sport, is available as an option and is configured so that it can be deactivated for the racetrack.

Following the BMW Motorrad Motorsport design, the carbon-fiber bodywork of the HP2 Sport is partially painted in Alpine White, while the engine spoiler carries the two-tone “HP2” lettering and the lattice frame and wheels are painted in the BMW Motorrad color of Motorsport Blue.

For enthusiasts who delight in racing technology, the HP2 is a dream come true!

BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. They represent BMW, the MINI brand, and the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, an industrial design firm in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. There are 142 BMW motorcycle retailers throughout the United States.

SOURCE: BMW MOTORRAD

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From 1 February BMW Motorrad Insurance in the UK will be offering five-day complimentary insurance cover to all customers purchasing a new or used BMW motorcycle. The complimentary insurance* is available at BMW dealerships nationwide, and can be arranged simply by requesting a no obligation annual policy quote from BMW Motorrad Insurance.

British customers taking advantage of the offer will benefit from immediate cover, which will enable them to ride away from a BMW Motorrad dealership on their new motorcycle on day of purchase. No more having to wait for new certificates from owners’ insurance companies, as a cover note confirming the five-day cover will be provided.

Designed with BMW riders in mind the range of products from BMW Motorrad Insurance provide cover exclusively for BMW riders and their motorcycles in the United Kingdom.

BMW Motorrad Insurance offers a number of attractive benefits for BMW motorcycle owners at competitive rates, as well as some fantastic model-specific insurance schemes on the F 800 S, F 800 ST, F 650 GS and F 650 GS Dakar, with flat rate premiums for comprehensive cover.

BMW Motorrad Insurance policy benefits include:

1. Up to nine years no-claims discount scale, with automatic protection after four years. Up to two years introductory no-claims discount for new riders
2. A second rider insured free of charge †
3. Additional BMW motorcycles insured at a flat rate of £10.50 per motorcycle per annum † †
4. Personal possessions (e.g. helmet and riding suit) covered for accidental damage and theft up to £1000
5. 10% discount on a Level 3 BMW Rider Training course through World of BMW
6. Free two-day comprehensive cover for test rides arranged with BMW Motorrad dealers † † †
7. Cover for EU countries when you travel abroad on your motorcycle † † † †
8. 5% reduction if your motorcycle is kept in a garage
9. Restricted mileage discount of up to 20%

* subject to the usual BMW Motorrad Insurance terms and conditions.
† Subject to the insurance being based on the highest-rated rider.
† † Subject to the insurance being based on the highest rated motorcycle. On policies with only one rider.
† † † On comprehensive policies.
† † † † For up to 92 days with no limit on the number of trips.

New R 1200 GS eligible for five-day complimentary BMW Motorrad Insurance

For details of the BMW Motorrad Insurance five-day complimentary cover please call 0800 051 1796, or visit your nearest UK BMW Motorrad dealership.

Further information on our model-specific schemes and policy benefits are also available. Please visit: www.bmwmotorradinsurance.co.uk, or call 0845 606 6354 to find out more.

SOURCE: BMW MOTORRAD UK

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Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, in an interview with editor of The Star Datuk Wong Chun Wai on Sunday (3rd of February 2008) stated that the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) would be buying 4,000 motorcycles and 3,000 cars.

“On the government’s part, we have allocated RM8 billion under the 9th Malaysia Plan which includes the purchase of high technology integrated communication system. For the new police stations, we want to install CCTVs inside lockups and CCTVs would also be installed at streets and public places by local councils. In addition, over 3,000 patrol cars and 4,000 motorcycles have been purchased. The government has also approved the recruitment of 60,000 police personnel over the next five years.”, said Mr. Badawi.

The full interview can be viewed at The Star Online.

Does this mean we will see more Honda ST1300Ps and Honda VFR800s on Malaysian roads soon? It isn’t clear yet if PDRM has already bought all of the 4,000 bikes earmarked to be purchased.

The Honda ST1300P Police Motorcycle is already in use by PDRM. However, MCN has reported that UK police have withdrawn the ST1300A, which could be a similar model, from service. (SOURCE). This was due to allegations that the bike was susceptible to a phenomenon known as ‘high speed weave’. (SOURCE: BBC) PDRM currently uses the Honda ST1300P and VFR800P police motorcycles. We do not know if the UK bikes mentioned in those reports are the same or similar to those used here in Malaysia but will endeavour to find out. To date there are no press releases to counter these allegations from Honda Motor Co. that I know of. The UK inquest was told the problems affected only police motorcycles which have been specially fitted with heavy emergency and communications equipment, which altered the centre of gravity.

BMW Motorrad‘s R 1200 RT-P Police Motorcycle

Or, if other contenders enter the bidding process, will we see other motorcycle companies fighting for a slice of the action? BMW Malaysia‘s Motorrad department could be working hard putting together proposals for the government for their R1200RT-P and R900RT-P police motorcycles. BMW police motorcycles are widely used by police forces worldwide, including the California Highway Patrol, which most of us growing up remember seeing in the TV series ‘CHiPs‘. There’s a lot of information on these bikes on Jeff Dean‘s website.

Harley-Davidson FLHTP Electra Glide

A surprise contender could be Harley-Davidson with their ABS-equipped FLHTP Electra Glide police motorcycle. The list of police options for this bike is very comprehensive, with everything from Brembo brakes, safety equipment to ‘motorcycle integrated’ and portable radar, fans for engine cooling when stationary, oil coolers, pole lamps, LED emergency lighting and even special Dunlop ‘Police Bead’ tyres!

Dutch Police Yamaha FJR1300

Finally there’s the Yamaha FJR1300. Malaysian distributor Hong Leong Yamaha might be in a frenzy cooking up specs and prices to bid for Malaysia’s next top police bike. In Europe, the popular BMW Motorrad has been losing contracts to Yamaha in Belgium, UK, Denmark, Holland and Portugal (SOURCE).

Then again, the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) might get funds which are only sufficient to buy 4,000 kapchai’s (mopeds)! Which would you rather have patrolling your neighbourhood? A badass biker cop on a mean, fire-breathing bike built like beef cattle, or on a moped?

“You’re Under Arrest” Anime Replica Honda Motocompo

バイカーブードゥー

INTERNAL REFERENCES:
1) BMW Motorrad Police Motorcycles
2) Honda ST1300P Police Motorcycle

Motorcycle, rider, miracle of birth. All shot on a Nikon D800. By ‘Sandro‘.

The Swiss Peraves MonoTracer promises low fuel consumption with protection from the elements.

The MonoTracer is a fully enclosed two-wheeler boasting a sporty, aerodynamic look and very low consumption. As a new version of the ECOMOBILE, a vehicle purely functional in design, the MonoTracer rounds off this unique class of machines by incorporating state-of-the-art design features. Peraves have built 90 MonoTracer prototypes called ECOMOBILEs and these have notched up, cumulatively over 12 million kilometres over the past 20 years. In 1996 10 ECOMOBILEs travelled from Atlanta to Montana and back, 11,000 kilometres in 3 weeks. The desert heat in Arizona and icy Rocky Mountain weather resulted in no technical problems for the ECOMOBILEs.

According to Peraves, the best motorcycle tires for highway use on the market today allow a lean angle of about 55 degrees. Apparently out of every 100 superbike owners in the GSX-R, Fireblade, Ninja, K1200S, R1 and 999R league maybe 20 have ever leaned their machines beyond 40 degrees. A maximum of 5 will regularly tip more than 45 degrees. Most of those sporty riders will limit their angle of lean by excessive “hanging off”, thus also limiting their speed in the curve. The MonoTracer with its “knee” (the retracted stabilizer tire) skimming the road, can lean to about 52 degrees and it has a turning circle and corner speed otherwise only achievable on a top-of-the-range sports bike. Of course, dry, clean and safe roads are an essential requirement for such antics.

Just when you think this might be the answer to skyrocketing fuel prices, comes the whopper price: 52,500 Euros (basic price) without VAT. I wonder how it will perform in traffic jams. Can it U-turn?

YOUTUBE VIDEO

TECHNICAL DATA
VEHICLE & BODY STRUCTURE
Self-supporting composite-monocoque made from glass-, kevlar- and carbon
tissues bonded by epoxy-resin reinforced with crash and roll bars. Engine frame,
steering head and stabilizer axles made from aircraft grade alloy steel.
Front suspension Marzocchi 50mm USD-fork, rear Monolever shaft swingarm.
Gull-wing-door with integrated sunroof, opening to the left.
Glazing made from tinted PMMA in aviation quality.
Baggage compartment of 200 Litres in the rear.

MECHANICS
4 cylinder-in-line-BMW-K-engine 1171 ccm, 16 valves, liquid cooling.
Dry reinforced monodisc clutch. Sequential PG-gearbox with 4 forward speeds and
electrically unlockable reverse, shifted by push-button-selector on left handlebar.
Automatic clutch optional.
Reinforced BMW-shaft drive.
3 brake discs 320 mm Ø with 4-piston-hydraulic callipers, fully integrated
electronic ABS. Ceramic brake discs and brake pads, ASP anti spin control optional.
Electrical stabilizer servo system, computer-supervised with cycle-time < 0,5 sec.
Semi-automatic, hydraulically operated softmode system optional.

EQUIPMENT & ACCESSORIES
RECARO-contour-seats with 3-point-automatic-safety belts.
Interior covers in high-tech-tissues and sound proofing padding.
Airconditioned + heated ventilation system of ample flow with intake air filter.
GPS-RDS-4LSP-audio-system.
Tempomat cruise control, frontal airbag, Bi-Xenon-lights, CD-players optional.

OPERATION
Motorcycle-type handlebars with extended functions. Clutch pedal left, gear- and
stabilizer-ops-switches left, integrated brake ops by pedal, aux-brake-lever and
twist-throttle right.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Empty weight: 460-485 kgs. depending on options
Max. weight: 685 kgs.
Tank capacity: 50 ltrs. / 14 USG
Dimensions: L = 3,65 m B = 1,25 m
(Stabilizers up) 1,40 m (down) H = 1,52 m
Service: 25.000 km / 15‘000 miles or annually – whichever is first
Engine: 96 kW / 130 HP at 8750/min, max. torque 117 Nm at 6750/min
Motronic-controlled injection
3-way-catalytic converter.
Acceleration: 0-100 kph = 5,7 sec.
Top speed: > 250 kph.
Brake distance: 100-0 = 43 m
Turning circle between walls: 8.5 m
Consumption(ISO 7118): 4,15 l/100km at constant 90 kph
5,05 l/100km at constant 120 kph

Basic price ex factory € 52‘500.- (+ local VAT)

2 years warranty / 25 years use guaranteed for composite + metal structures

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The BMW Motorrad Motorsport team’s second stop on the ’08 World Enduro Championship tour saw team riders Anders Eriksson, Simo Kirssi, Jeff Goblet and Bert Meyer compete in the GP of Portugal – an event that proved to be anything but easy due to an extremely challenging course, three demanding special tests and heavy rain on day two. With Eriksson having narrowly missed a podium result at the opening round of the series in Sweden, the Portuguese event marked the first international enduro competition in which Eriksson would compete, outside of Sweden, aboard his BMW.

Hopeful of challenging for a podium finish in the Enduro 3 class things didn’t go as planned for Anders on day one as he failed to finish due to a clutch problem. Re-starting day two the experienced Swede was unable to perform at his best in the extremely wet and difficult conditions and placed ninth in the highly competitive E3 class. Despite being forced to retire on day one, Anders finished the harder second day’s competition without problems.

In the Enduro 2 class BMW Motorrad Motorsport rider Simo Kirssi overcame his lack of World Enduro Championship experience to claim a solid top 10 result on day two having enjoyed the slippery and difficult conditions. Competing in only his second ever WEC event Simo was disappointingly unable to finish day one as on the penultimate special test he badly damaged his front wheel, which resulted in his retirement. On day two Kirssi finished comfortably inside the top 10 having ridden consistently all day. Finishing as high as fourth in class, and only twice placing outside the top 10 of the E2 class during the day’s nine special tests, Kirssi finished just 11 seconds behind the E2 class’s sixth placed rider.

For Kirssi’s E2 class team-mate Jeff Goblet the GP of Portugal proved to be a difficult one with the Belgian finishing in 12th on day one and 13th on day two. Performing at his best on the technical extreme test on day one, on day two Goblet suffered bad luck as his chain twice came off in the extreme test while he struggled to perform at his best in the muddy motocross test. In the Enduro Junior class Bert Meyer finished on day one as tenth but placed ninth on day two.

Simo Kirssi – Enduro 2:
“The first day ended disappointingly for me. Things had been going ok but in the final motocross test I landed from one of the many drop-off jumps and I heard a strange metallic sound. I was able to continue but I had damaged many of the spokes in my front wheel, which meant that I had to retire from the day. Day two was much better – I really enjoyed the conditions although on the motocross test it was really, really muddy. I learned a lot from the race. It was my first world championship race in normal conditions, and it was every bit as difficult as I expected it to be.”

Jeff Goblet – Enduro 2:
“I had some really good times in the extreme and enduro tests on day one but I really struggled in the muddy conditions on day two. With this season being my first on a four-stroke I knew it would take me some time to adjust to competing in muddy conditions. In the enduro test, which was dry, I was able to put in some good test times. But in the motocross and extreme test I struggled. Also, my chain came off twice in the extreme test. I need more time on the bike in these types of conditions, and then I am sure my results will improve.”

Anders Eriksson – Enduro 3:
“Not being able to finish the first day was a big disappointment, but I came into this season knowing that these things can happen. We learn more and more every day we spend time on the bike. I had a problem with the clutch, which was very strange. I didn’t ride that well, but I’m happy that I was able to finish the second day. Day two was extremely tough and my bike ran perfectly all day, which was good. It was the first time that I’d ridden the bike in such muddy conditions and although I wasn’t overly happy with my riding the bike performed really well.”

Wolfgang Fischer – BMW Motorrad Motorsport Team Manager:
“It was good to see all riders finish on day two, especially Simo as this was his first real world championship enduro race. Finishing seventh in the Enduro 2 class is very encouraging. Day one was a little disappointing as Anders Eriksson had a problem with his clutch. We’re not 100 per cent sure why he had the problem that he did but he finished day two without any troubles at all. The conditions were about as difficult as they get in world championship competition. It’s the first real mud race that the team has faced this year and despite the few problems on day one the fact that all riders completed the hardest day – day two, without problems was great.”

Results Grand Prix of Portugal – Day 1

ENDURO 2
1. Johnny Aubert (Yamaha) 49:13.71; 2. Juha Salminen (KTM) 49:14.30; 3. Joakim Ljunggren (Husaberg) 51:18.58; 4. Alessandro Belometti (KTM) 51:20.26; 5. Fabio Mossini (Honda) 51:51.68; 6. Nicolas Paganon (Aprilia) 52:0.71; 7. Fabrizio Dini (Yamaha) 52:08.31; 8. Rodrig Thain (TM) 52:12.27; 9. Jari Mattila (Honda) 52:13.81; 10. Nicolas Deparrois (Gas Gas) 52:36.47; 11. Alessandro Zanni (Honda) 52:48.87; 12. Jean Francois Goblet (BMW Motorrad Motorsport) 53:14.12; 13. Valtteri Salonen (Husaberg) 53:16.09; 14. Andrea Belotti (KTM) 53:42.12; 15. Helder Rodrigues (Honda) 53:50.42; 16. Rudy Cotton (Honda) 55:34.78; 17. Felipe Zanol (Yamaha) 57:25.53; 18. Mario Patrao (Suzuki) 58:00.25

ENDURO 3
1. Samuli Aro (KTM) 50:55.42; 2. Marko Tarkkala (KTM) 51:06.96; 3.Marcus Kehr (KTM) 51:19.94; 4. Christophe Nambotin (Gas Gas) 51:25.46; 5. Fabien Planet (KTM) 51:28.46; 6. Sebastien Guillaume (Husqvarna) 51:40.74; 7. Bjorne Carlsson (Husaberg) 51:52.62; 8. Stefan Merriman (Aprilia) 52:06.37; 9. Xavier Galindo (KTM) 52:13.72; 10. Antoine Letellier (Aprilia) 52:16.88; 11. Alessandro Botturi (Honda) 52:23.42; 12. Alessio Paoli (Beta) 53:46.90; 13. Juan Pedrero (Yamaha) 53:58.21; 14. Jordi Figueras (KTM) 54:15.07; 15. Stefan Svitko (KTM) 54:41.01; 16. Vita Kuklik (KTM) 55:17.79; 17. Euan McConnell (TM) 55:38.28; 18. Gordon Clarke (TM) 58:52.89

ENDURO JUNIOR
1. Marc Bourgeois (Husqvarna) 51:28.17; 2. Oriol Mena 52:33.30; 3. Oscar Balletti (Honda) 53:12.63; 4. Carlos Andreu (KTM) 53:29.69; 5. Simon Wakely (Husqvarna) 53:44.57; 6. Gregory Evans (KTM) 54:24.52; 7. Thomas Oldrati (KTM) 51:25.65; 8. Lorenzo Santolino (KTM) 53:27.34; 9. Lucas Puerta (Yamaha) 54:24.09; 10. Bert Mayer (BMW Motorrad Motorsport) 55:52.34; 11.Guillem Pares (Yamaha) 56:52.32; 12. Ashley Wood (Honda) 58:27.00; 13. Roman Dumontier (Husqvarna) 1.03:07.95; 14. Roger Sanllehi (Honda) 1.05:40.14; 15. Marc Sola (KTM) 1.06:48.98; 16. Mark Risse (Gas Gas) 1.07:52.66; 17. Concelo Bandeira (Suzuki) 1.14:53.80

Results Grand Prix of Portugal – Day 2

ENDURO 2
1. Juha Salminen (KTM) 54:12.03; 2. Johnny Aubert (Yamaha) 54:43.01; 3. Valtteri Salonen (Husaberg) 56:09.00; 4. Alessandro Belometti (KTM) 56:09.27; 5. Nicolas Paganon (Aprilia) 56:27.15; 6. Fabrizio Dini (Yamaha) 57:09.97; 7. Simo Kirssi (BMW Motorrad Motorsport) 57:20.95; 8. Jari Mattila (Honda) 58:05.47; 9. Fabio Mossini (Honda) 58:32.42; 10. Rodrig Thain (TM) 58:56.35; 11. Aaron Bernadez (Husqvarna) 59:14.03; 12. Freddy Blanc (Suzuki) 59:45.06; 13. Jean Francois Goblet (BMW Motorrad Motorsport) 1.00:38.36; 14. Andrea Belotti (Honda) 1.01:08.61; 15. Nicolas Deparrois (Gas Gas) 1.01:12.35; 16. Filipe Zanol (Yamaha) 1.02:00.05

ENDURO 3
1. Christophe Nambotin (Gas Gas) 55:17.58; 2. Samuli Aro (KTM) 55:40.23; 3. Marcus Kehr (KTM) 55:43.86; 4. Stefan Merriman (Aprilia) 55:49.05; 5. Marko Tarkkala (KTM) 56:11.82; 6. Fabien Planet (KTM) 56:31.41; 7. Bjorne Carlsson (Husaberg) 56:43.32; 8. Sebastien Guillaume (Husqvarna) 57:20.92; 9. Anders Eriksson (BMW Motorrad Motorsport) 57:25.05; 10. Xavier Galindo (KTM) 58:21.19; 11. Antoine Letellier (Aprilia) 58:38.62; 12. Euan McConnell (TM) 1.00:06.88; 13. Vita Kuklik (KTM) 1.00:16.13; 14. Stefan Svitko (KTM) 1.00:03.07; 15. Juan Pedrero (Yamaha) 1.01:42.55; 16; Jordi Figueras (KTM) 1.03:08.23

ENDURO JUNIOR
1. Tomas Oldrati (KTM) 55:.29; 2. Marc Bourgeois (Husqvarna) 56:28.39; 3. Anti Hellsten (Husqvarna) 59:32.84; 4. Victor Guerrero (KTM) 59:54.91; 5. Lucas Puerta (Yamaha) 1.00:40.82; 6. Simon Wakely (Husqvarna) 1.00:43.01; 7. Lorenzo Santolino (KTM) 1.00:59.55; 8. Martin Kuklik (KTM) 1.03:37.35; 9. Bert Mayer (BMW Motorrad Motorsport) 1.03:32.43; 10. Adrian Metge (Husqvarna) 1.05:08.68; 11. Ollie Moyce (Yamaha) 1.07:13.23; Guillem Pares (Yamaha) 1.07:33.24 Sundin (Husaberg) 56:27.86; 20.Carl Sjoo (KTM) 56:30.38

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A couple of years back I was a little (but not totally) surprised to hear that Sachs Motorcycles had subcontracted not only the engine but the entire production of their MadAss motorcycle to Guangzhou Panyu Huanan Motors of China, and the Italjet Grifon was little more than a rebodied Hyosung GT650. Sachs designed the bike though, and was a small company. Italjet probably didn’t have the funds to develop a large capacity motorcycle from the ground up.

G450X MOTOR

A real shocker, however, is that the latest BMW motorcycle from BMW Motorrad, the G450X, will be using a 449cc, DOHC four-stroke single cylinder engine manufactured in Kaoshiung, Taiwan by Kwang Yang Motor Co. Ltd. (KYMCO).

Kymco is a Taiwanese company which manufactures motor scooters, motorcycles, and ATVs. It is the largest scooter manufacturer in Taiwan and was founded in 1963 to make parts for Honda. They built their first complete scooter in 1970 and began marketing its products under the “Kymco” brand name in 1992. Kymco has roughly 3000 employees, and produces over 480,000 vehicles per year.

BMW Motorrad’s EVP for Development and Model Lines, Peter Müller has assured that BMW and its partners have developed a dedicated production line for the G450X, which will be assembled at BMW’s motorcycle production plant in Berlin, and will deliver the quality expected of a BMW. The G450X was unveiled at the November 2007 EICMA show in Italy, and was tested and refined at European enduro events throughout 2007.

SOURCE

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The Essential Buyer’s Guide

BMW GS
By Peter Henshaw
Available now!
ISBN 9781845841355 / UPC 636847041359
£9.99 UK / $19.95 USA

Stop! Don’t buy a BMW GS without this book!

* The BMW GS is currently in the public eye – made famous by the film Long Way Round starring Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman
* The GS has been in production for over 25 years, with many, many thousands sold
* Complete guide to buying a secondhand GS
* Ownership advice – is it the right bike for you?
* Where to look for problems
* 10min and 30min evaluation checklist, and unique points system
* Auction guide
* Spares prices
* Lists of useful contacts in the GS Community
* How to get the paperwork right
* Get the right bike at the right price!

DESCRIPTION
BMW’s GS series is one of the world’s milestone motorcycles and has been in production for over 25 years. It pioneered the ‘adventure sport’ category big bikes that are capable of travelling off-road and, in many ways, it’s the Range Rover of motorcycling. It’s now more popular than ever, thanks in part to the massive publicity surrounding the film Long Way Round starring Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman.

THE AUTHOR
Peter Henshaw has had an enthusiasism for anything with wheels from an early age – from bicycles to 500hp tractors. He was the Editor of Motorcycle Sport & Leisure for five years before going freelance, and now contributes to a whole range of transport magazines including MSL, TAG, A to B and Tractor, as well as The Telegraph. He’s also written over 30 books, including 10 about bikes, and is an all-year-round motorcyclist who does not own a car.

SPECIFICATION
Paperback. 64 pages. 195mm tall x 139mm (711⁄16in tall x 57⁄16in). 100 pictures.

MORE INFORMATION
View sample pages and sample text on the website – <http:/www.veloce.co.uk>

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BMW Motorrad dealerships around the UK are gearing up for BMW’s nationwide customer event on 08 March. BMW’s New Season Launch takes place on Saturday 08 March and one of the highlights of this year’s nationwide event will be the first appearance in Motorrad showrooms of the all-new F 650 GS and F 800 GS models. From this date Motorrad dealerships will be offering customers a first opportunity to test ride two of the most eagerly anticipated BMW motorcycles in recent years.

With the up-rated 2008 models of the R 1200 GS and its Adventure derivative already launched, the latest additions to BMW’s ground-breaking adventure sport genre are the sophisticated parallel-twin F 650 GS and F 800 GS .

F 650 GS
The F 650 GS, despite its familiar designation, is a completely new machine. Along with its bigger brother, the F 800 GS, it is powered by BMW’s hi-tech and highly praised 798cc parallel-twin engine – albeit with 71 hp in a softer state of tune than in the F 800 S and ST street versions. This configuration provides plenty of power with excellent fuel economy. The bike’s low seat height and light-touch controls make the F 650 GS an easy to handle all-rounder, ideal for everyday use, and perfect for newcomers to motorcycling.

F 800 GS
The all-new F 800 GS expands BMW Motorrad’s class-leading tradition into the middleweight adventure sports category. The overall package combines balance, low weight and full 85 hp power with excellent ground clearance and long suspension travel. The result is a machine with impressive off-road performance combined with outstanding touring capabilities.

Technically, of course, there is much more. However, the most pleasing specification must surely be the price. The F 650 GS and F 800 GS retail at £5,495 and £6,695 (OTR) respectively.

To celebrate the New Season Launch, visitors to BMW’s UK dealer showrooms are eligible to enter a draw for the chance to win a place on the World of BMW ‘Roads to Morocco’ tour in April. The winner of the draw and a pillion passenger will explore the excellent and diverse roads of a truly beguiling country on a BMW-supplied R 1200 GS. They will also be able to enjoy the atmosphere of countless bustling souks, and stimulate their individual taste buds on Morocco’s unique and aromatic cuisine. It will be the trip of a lifetime for one lucky couple and worth over £2000.

BMW Motorrad Marketing Manager Tony Jakeman said: “BMW Motorrad is offering this fantastic trip to Morocco to mark BMW’s ‘Year of the Enduro’. Appropriately, the new F series GS models are ideal for adventure motorcycling, but are also comfortable in an urban environment. We would encourage customers to try these, or any of our range of exciting new motorcycles, for themselves. Besides, who would want to miss the chance of a free ride to Morocco?”

The New Season Launch is a BMW Motorrad event held specifically to introduce existing and future customers to the company’s new 2008 products. Taking place at every Motorrad dealership across the UK (Scotland excluded) the event features all new BMW motorcycles; the newest clothing in the Rider Equipment collection; a full range of touring accessories; information on new BMW Insurance products and incentives, and dedicated loans and packages from BMW Financial Services.

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For those of you who missed Chris Pfeiffer, or ‘CP‘ as he is sometimes called, here are some pics for you to enjoy. Here, he shows Malaysians how a skilled hooligan biker does tricks during an exhibition by BMW Malaysia in Melaka to help promote the BMW Sauber F1 effort at Sepang International Circuit. CP, from Germany, has been riding since he was 5 years old and is 37 now. Sponsored by Red Bull, CP has won tons of stunt championships and rides a BMW F800S.

For more info on CP check out his website www.chrispfeiffer.com. You can read more about his cool BMW F800S stuntbike here.

Photographer: Daniel Reinhard

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BMW Boxer Fans – Reach for Your Checkbooks

BMW Motorrad USA has revealed that the BMW HP2 Sport, arriving soon at US BMW Motorrad retailers, will have a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of US$25,375 (excluding taxes, license, options, and handling charge) and a destination charge of US$495. The high-performance HP 2-cylinder Boxer is the third motorcycle in the HP model range customized to meet the requirements of sporty BMW bike fans.

The HP2 is the sportiest, most powerful and lightest Boxer ever manufactured, and follows in the footsteps of the HP2 Enduro and the HP2 Megamoto. The BMW HP2 features numerous exclusive details, previously restricted to racing, that were never before offered in a series production BMW motorcycle. Technology such as the self-supporting and aerodynamically optimized fairings made completely of CFK, the gear shift assistant, a dashboard similar to that used in the MotoGP, the forged aluminum wheels and brakes with radially mounted calipers make the HP2 perform optimally on roads in the country and on track days too.

The most striking difference between the BMW HP2 Sport from the endurance racing Boxer is the brand new cylinder heads: each of the double overhead camshafts (DOHC) uses a drag lever to actuate the valves that are larger than those on the BMW R 1200 S. Further modifications, such as the flow-optimized intake and outlet, new forged pistons and adapted connecting rod, help the engine to achieve the necessary higher output compared to the basic engine.

A new stainless steel exhaust system is placed below the engine for the first time, keeping the lower area of the motorcycle extremely slim for greater freedom of movement for a “hanging off” riding position. Although designed for racing prowess, the BMW HP2 Sport does not forego the safety benefits of ABS. A sophisticated antilock brake system, specially adapted to the HP2 Sport, is available as an option and is configured so that it can be deactivated for the racetrack.

Following the BMW Motorrad Motorsport design, the carbon-fiber bodywork of the HP2 Sport is partially painted in Alpine White, while the engine spoiler carries the two-tone “HP2” lettering and the lattice frame and wheels are painted in the BMW Motorrad color of Motorsport Blue.

For enthusiasts who delight in racing technology, the HP2 is a dream come true!

BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. They represent BMW, the MINI brand, and the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, an industrial design firm in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. There are 142 BMW motorcycle retailers throughout the United States.

SOURCE: BMW MOTORRAD

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From 1 February BMW Motorrad Insurance in the UK will be offering five-day complimentary insurance cover to all customers purchasing a new or used BMW motorcycle. The complimentary insurance* is available at BMW dealerships nationwide, and can be arranged simply by requesting a no obligation annual policy quote from BMW Motorrad Insurance.

British customers taking advantage of the offer will benefit from immediate cover, which will enable them to ride away from a BMW Motorrad dealership on their new motorcycle on day of purchase. No more having to wait for new certificates from owners’ insurance companies, as a cover note confirming the five-day cover will be provided.

Designed with BMW riders in mind the range of products from BMW Motorrad Insurance provide cover exclusively for BMW riders and their motorcycles in the United Kingdom.

BMW Motorrad Insurance offers a number of attractive benefits for BMW motorcycle owners at competitive rates, as well as some fantastic model-specific insurance schemes on the F 800 S, F 800 ST, F 650 GS and F 650 GS Dakar, with flat rate premiums for comprehensive cover.

BMW Motorrad Insurance policy benefits include:

1. Up to nine years no-claims discount scale, with automatic protection after four years. Up to two years introductory no-claims discount for new riders
2. A second rider insured free of charge †
3. Additional BMW motorcycles insured at a flat rate of £10.50 per motorcycle per annum † †
4. Personal possessions (e.g. helmet and riding suit) covered for accidental damage and theft up to £1000
5. 10% discount on a Level 3 BMW Rider Training course through World of BMW
6. Free two-day comprehensive cover for test rides arranged with BMW Motorrad dealers † † †
7. Cover for EU countries when you travel abroad on your motorcycle † † † †
8. 5% reduction if your motorcycle is kept in a garage
9. Restricted mileage discount of up to 20%

* subject to the usual BMW Motorrad Insurance terms and conditions.
† Subject to the insurance being based on the highest-rated rider.
† † Subject to the insurance being based on the highest rated motorcycle. On policies with only one rider.
† † † On comprehensive policies.
† † † † For up to 92 days with no limit on the number of trips.

New R 1200 GS eligible for five-day complimentary BMW Motorrad Insurance

For details of the BMW Motorrad Insurance five-day complimentary cover please call 0800 051 1796, or visit your nearest UK BMW Motorrad dealership.

Further information on our model-specific schemes and policy benefits are also available. Please visit: www.bmwmotorradinsurance.co.uk, or call 0845 606 6354 to find out more.

SOURCE: BMW MOTORRAD UK

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Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, in an interview with editor of The Star Datuk Wong Chun Wai on Sunday (3rd of February 2008) stated that the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) would be buying 4,000 motorcycles and 3,000 cars.

“On the government’s part, we have allocated RM8 billion under the 9th Malaysia Plan which includes the purchase of high technology integrated communication system. For the new police stations, we want to install CCTVs inside lockups and CCTVs would also be installed at streets and public places by local councils. In addition, over 3,000 patrol cars and 4,000 motorcycles have been purchased. The government has also approved the recruitment of 60,000 police personnel over the next five years.”, said Mr. Badawi.

The full interview can be viewed at The Star Online.

Does this mean we will see more Honda ST1300Ps and Honda VFR800s on Malaysian roads soon? It isn’t clear yet if PDRM has already bought all of the 4,000 bikes earmarked to be purchased.

The Honda ST1300P Police Motorcycle is already in use by PDRM. However, MCN has reported that UK police have withdrawn the ST1300A, which could be a similar model, from service. (SOURCE). This was due to allegations that the bike was susceptible to a phenomenon known as ‘high speed weave’. (SOURCE: BBC) PDRM currently uses the Honda ST1300P and VFR800P police motorcycles. We do not know if the UK bikes mentioned in those reports are the same or similar to those used here in Malaysia but will endeavour to find out. To date there are no press releases to counter these allegations from Honda Motor Co. that I know of. The UK inquest was told the problems affected only police motorcycles which have been specially fitted with heavy emergency and communications equipment, which altered the centre of gravity.

BMW Motorrad‘s R 1200 RT-P Police Motorcycle

Or, if other contenders enter the bidding process, will we see other motorcycle companies fighting for a slice of the action? BMW Malaysia‘s Motorrad department could be working hard putting together proposals for the government for their R1200RT-P and R900RT-P police motorcycles. BMW police motorcycles are widely used by police forces worldwide, including the California Highway Patrol, which most of us growing up remember seeing in the TV series ‘CHiPs‘. There’s a lot of information on these bikes on Jeff Dean‘s website.

Harley-Davidson FLHTP Electra Glide

A surprise contender could be Harley-Davidson with their ABS-equipped FLHTP Electra Glide police motorcycle. The list of police options for this bike is very comprehensive, with everything from Brembo brakes, safety equipment to ‘motorcycle integrated’ and portable radar, fans for engine cooling when stationary, oil coolers, pole lamps, LED emergency lighting and even special Dunlop ‘Police Bead’ tyres!

Dutch Police Yamaha FJR1300

Finally there’s the Yamaha FJR1300. Malaysian distributor Hong Leong Yamaha might be in a frenzy cooking up specs and prices to bid for Malaysia’s next top police bike. In Europe, the popular BMW Motorrad has been losing contracts to Yamaha in Belgium, UK, Denmark, Holland and Portugal (SOURCE).

Then again, the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) might get funds which are only sufficient to buy 4,000 kapchai’s (mopeds)! Which would you rather have patrolling your neighbourhood? A badass biker cop on a mean, fire-breathing bike built like beef cattle, or on a moped?

“You’re Under Arrest” Anime Replica Honda Motocompo

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INTERNAL REFERENCES:
1) BMW Motorrad Police Motorcycles
2) Honda ST1300P Police Motorcycle