Honda (UK) is pleased to confirm its continued commitment to the British Superbike Championship for 2009 with the HM Plant Honda team on the CBR1000RR Fireblade.

Building on their long term relationship since 2004, Honda (UK) Racing and HM Plant will be looking to continue their successful partnership and performance for the sixth consecutive year, in what is considered the strongest domestic motorcycle racing championship in the world.

Steve Martindale, General Manager of Honda (UK) Motorcycles, commented, “I’m very happy to confirm Honda’s commitment to the British Superbike Championship for 2009 and also the team’s continued relationship with HM Plant. The British Superbike Championship is very strong and the high standard of rider talent and racing can be seen at every round. This was further highlighted by the excellent and highly competitive performances of the British riders, including HM Plant Honda riders Leon and Cal, who took part in the recent UK round of the World Superbike Championship. The team is still very much focused on the final two rounds of this season however, before turning its full attentions to preparations for the 2009 championship.”

HM Plant Chairman, John Jones, said, “We have been delighted with our relationship with Honda and the exposure achieved from the HM Plant Honda team partnership over the last five years and look forward to that continuing for many years to come.”

Honda (UK) Racing has a long and successful history in both British and World motorcycle racing championships, taking the World Superbike Championship title in 1997, 2000 and 2002 before wrapping up the British Superbike title in 2006 and 2007 as HM Plant Honda with Ryuichi Kiyonari. The team has also won many other events, including British Supersport titles with Karl Harris and many North West 200 and Isle of Man races, most notably with TT legend John McGuinness.

The British Superbike Championship is the most hard-fought domestic motorcycle racing championship in the world, attracting sponsors and riders from across the globe. The championship’s profile has risen over the last few seasons as television ratings and ‘live’ attendances at the track have increased.

Currently in the British Superbike Championship, HM Plant Honda riders Leon Haslam and Cal Crutchlow are in second and fourth places respectively with just two rounds remaining. Team-mate Steve Brogan is leading the National Superstock 1000 Championship and sits in fifth in the British Supersport Championship.

Details of the HM Plant Honda riders and class entries for 2009 are still to be finalised, but for further information about Honda (UK) Racing and the HM Plant Honda team, please visit www.honda-racing.co.uk.

バイカーブードゥー

Suzuki Burgman 650 scooters will be hitting the streets of Birmingham and Manchester this month, as the AA take on a fleet of Burgmans as part of their rapid response two-wheel fleet.

With motorcycles making a return to the AA fleet for the first time since the mid-nineties, the Burgmans inclusion will be a welcome addition, helping to cut response times in city areas. With six Burgman 650s expected to go into Birmingham, four into Manchester and six in London, the AA Burgman fleet will be standard with the exception of a top-box, Garmin Zumo Sat Nav and the AA safety beacons and graphics.

Alan Garret of supplying dealer Motts motorcycles in Basingstoke commented, “We are very happy to assist the AA in their return to bike use. As we all know, motorcycles offer a great solution to beating congestion, and so it’s great to see a well-known organisation maximise the potential of two-wheels again.”

Look out for the Burgman AA machines on the roads of Birmingham and Manchester from 29th and 31st of July 2008.

For more information on this or any other Suzuki model, visit your local authorised Suzuki dealer, log on to www.suzuki.co.uk, or call the Suzuki Contact Centre on 0845 850 8800.

バイカーブードゥー

Hollyoaks actor, Stuart Manning, who plays Russell Owen in the hit Channel 4 television soap, has signed-up to race in the forthcoming ACU Suzuki GSX-R600 Trophy race, being held at Anglesey circuit in North Wales on the 26th and 27th July.

Manning, a keen motorcyclist, accepted the invitation to race in the one make race series, after watching the second round of the series in June as it supported the British Grand Prix at Donington Park in Leicestershire.

Talking about his forthcoming race, Stuart said, “I’m really excited about racing in the ACU GSX-R Trophy. I watched the guys race at Donington Park earlier this year, and was impressed by the format and standard of racing, so when Suzuki offered me a ride, I couldn’t refuse.”

With Hollyoaks filmed across the border in Liverpool, the Anglesey track, which underwent complete redevelopment just over 12 months ago, is virtually a home round for the 29 year-old actor, but despite this it will be his first race at the venue.

If you would like to cheer on Stuart in the GSX-R Trophy you can find more information by visiting www.gsxrtrophy.co.uk or www.suzuki.co.uk

バイカーブードゥー

In this day and age of crazy fuel prices and increasing congestion, more and more people are looking at getting on two wheels to help them break free. One if those who is taking to motorcycling is TV presenter Dominic Littlewood. Living in South West London, Dominic has sold his gas guzzling Chevy SSR and Plymouth Prowler to get back onto 2 wheels.

He grew up on Yamaha machinery, owning a TY50, FS1E and YZ250 just to name a few. Passing his test back in April, he has just taken charge of a Yamaha MT-03. With a punchy 660cc four-stroke engine, this middle-weight Yamaha is the perfect tool for getting around town economically and when the moment takes you, to get out on the open road for a fun blast. The quirky low riding position with such a powerful street presence, really appealed to Dominic’s taste for not following the norm.

He was quick to point out his desire to have another Yamaha ‘I am a bit of a petrol head but I can’t justify 4 wheels any more. The MT-03 is the perfect bike for me as it’s nimble and punchy and it’s got a low seat height – plus it’s got gallons of style! Personally, I am getting more and more concerned about my carbon footprint so riding bikes is one of the ways I can put something back. In return, I get to travel more efficiently and give less cash to The Man in fuel costs. I am really looking forward to helping promote the benefits of motorcycling and getting out and about over the summer.’

バイカーブードゥー

Community nurse, Lou Hartley is off on an exciting three­week tour of Europe by motorcycle. She will be visiting 10 countries and aims to raise a grand total of £40,000 for cancer charities: The Lavender Trust, Douglas Macmillan Research, Maggie’s Centre Nottingham and The Willow Foundation.

Plus, doing the trip on a motorcycle is no mean feat for Lou, when you consider that 6 months ago she didn’t even have a license and she’s a petite 5ft 2” and 8 stone wet through!

Lou was inspired to make the trip to help raise awareness of breast cancer in younger women after she was diagnosed with breast cancer just after turning 40 years of age. Whilst Lou is still recovering, her sister­in­law Alison has also had the disease at the age of 33. They’re living proof that the disease is striking women at a much earlier age and both Lou and Alison are determined to raise awareness of this issue as well as raise plenty of money for cancer charities.

Lou explains: “Whilst 80% of breast cancer cases occur in women over the age of 50, it seems the disease is becoming more common in younger women. And from the age of 20, women should self­examine from time to time! I’m one of the lucky ones because I was breast aware and the doctor’s caught it in the early stages, but many women aren’t so lucky.”

Accompanying Lou on the trip is professional photographer Tristan Poyser, who will be capturing the complete experience for the website. Tristan, who has volunteered 3 weeks of his time to make the journey, is an integral part of the Breast Quest Team and has been involved in their fundraising activities from the beginning.

Throughout the journey together, Lou and Tristan will be making a video documentary of the trip with blogs, photos and podcasts all of which will be posted on the Breast Quest website. The fundamental reason behind the trip is to turn the whole experience right from Lou’s diagnosis, through to the completion of the tour, into a book which will offer support to other people in the same uncertain situation in which cancer inevitably leaves them, their friends and their family.

It is hoped that the additional proceeds of the book will go towards raising even more money for the above charities.

In support of their quest, Yamaha Motor UK has stepped in to lend a hand by supplying the pair two motorcycles to make the trip on. Lou will ride an MT­03 whilst Tristan will be using Yamaha’s latest FZ6 Fazer S2. Both motorcycles are more than capable for the journey ahead and will provide comfortable and thrilling riding which will certainly add to the excitement of the whole adventure. The Breast Quest duo will kick off the trip in the Market Square, Nottingham on Saturday 19 July at 4pm. Lou and Tristan, riding their Yamahas, will be waved off by the Lord Mayor and accompanied by some 20 Nottingham Advanced Motorcyclists before they roar off to get the ferry.

If you or your company would like to offer your services or make a financial contribution to the trip please contact Lou or Tristan via the Breast Quest website. www.breastquest2008.co.uk

バイカーブードゥー

Stereophonics guitarist Richard Jones, took delivery of a brand-new Suzuki B-King muscle bike last week, just in time to appreciate the use of two wheels on National Ride to Work Day, taking place tomorrow (Wednesday 16th July).

The bass guitarist, from the legendary Welsh rock group, decided on the 1340cc Suzuki B-King for his regular trips through London to the recording studio and record company after falling for its futuristic styling and impressive performance.

Talking about the B-King, Jones, who has owned numerous bikes over the years commented, “I’m delighted with the B-King. It looks out of this world and despite its imposing size and power it’s actually incredibly easy to ride. I’ve been using it to get to the recording studio, and it’s dramatically dropped my journey times across town compared to the car, while being great fun too.”

As well as riding the B-King while he’s working in the UK, Jones will next be appearing on stage in the B-King’s homeland of Japan, as the Stereophonics play in Tokyo next week, before a return to the UK at the V Festival next month.

For more information on the Stereophonics visit www.stereophonics.com

National Motorcycle Week Info:
National Motorcycle Week is the annual campaign that demonstrates to the public, media and politicians the importance and popularity of motorcycling in the UK, and emphasises the important point that owners are from all walks of life and that riding has social, environmental and economic benefits.

Ride to Work Day on 16th July is the day when all bike and scooter owners are encouraged to ride to work and, if they can, take a friend or colleague with them. The day will highlight that motorcycling cuts congestion, pollution, journey times and is convenient and flexible.

バイカーブードゥー

The Northampton Schoolboy motocross Club played host to round five of the BYMX Championships, held at Woodford near Kettering at the weekend, with Relentless Suzuki Youth Academy riders James Dunn and Luke Dean participating in separate classes on their Suzuki RM85 machines

The weekend was full of mixed results for both the riders, but the overall results left them still in the running for the championship standings. With the track demanding a good start it was to see James taking the chequered flag with four top ten positions, including two podiums. This would see the small wheel 85 rider come away from the weekend with a fourth overall, but as luck would have it the current leader Jordan Godwin took sixth overall, so would see Dunn still claiming second in the championship standings and only 22 points separating the pair.

Luke Dean was to take his big wheel RM85 to podium positions having a great day on Saturday with first and second claimed. The Sunday however was to see a slightly different format, finishing in sixth and seventh positions. This would still see him taking second overall from the weekend, and a few positions claimed in the championship.

The next BYMX round is to be held at Cusses Gorse in August on Saturday and Sunday 23rd and 24th.

バイカーブードゥー

Relentless Suzuki Enduro rider, Paul Edmondson, prepares this week for the British round of the World Enduro Championship taking place at the Hafren Forest in Wales at the weekend.

Riding the two-stroke RM250, Edmondson makes a return to the world stage, where he recorded four championship titles and still retains the accolade of being the longest serving rider in the series history.

Talking about his return to the WEC, Edmondson commented, “I’m really looking forward to riding again next weekend. I’ve enjoyed a great deal of success in the championship over the years and using the RM250 gives me added confidence for the potentially tricky conditions.”

Edmondson, who suffered a rare ‘DNF’ at the Welsh Two Day Enduro last month, injuring his hand in the process, is almost back to full-strength and expects to be able to contest for a top spot after a promising ride last weekend in the Great Britain X Country event at Llanarmon, where despite running out of fuel showed great pace.

バイカーブードゥー

The upcoming Batman movie of 2008, ‘Dark Knight‘ will feature a very interesting new Batcycle. Called the Batpod, this new two-wheeler features huge 20″ front and rear tires, with hub-mounted motors. Designed by Nathan Crowley who designed the ‘Tumbler‘ Batmobile which is Batman’s primary land vehicle. Oddly the riding position is such that Batman sort of lies flat on the bike, legs extended backwards with his arms in two shields protecting the steering, throttle and braking controls.

The Batpod is armed with cannons, hooks and machine guns. The design itself looks like Judge Dredd‘s unbelievably fat-tyred Lawmaster crossbred with the skeletal Sachs Madass!

The much-anticipated film, which releases in cinemas across the world soon, is the follow up to the 2005 action hit Batman Begins. The Dark Knight reunites director Christopher Nolan and star Christian Bale, who again portrays the dual role of Bruce Wayne/Batman. Marking the release of The Dark Knight in the UK, Panasonic Toyota Racing adopted a new look at Silverstone recently with the Dark Knight artwork featured on the TF108s and the overalls of Jarno Trulli and Timo Glock, as well as the team’s motor home, which is why you see Jarno Trulli trying a riding pose on the Batpod. All I can say is it isn’t built for commuting in heavy traffic! Batman may not be too worried about tyres though, as the Batpod tyres look like they’re the same ones on the Tumbler Batmobile. Lucius Fox must have gotten ‘tired’ of keeping too many tyres in stock!

SOURCE

See below for a YouTube video of the Batpod on NBC

continue reading "DARK KNIGHT: BATMAN’S BATPOD"

UK bikers get the PGM-FI equipped ANF125i Innova, the European version of Asia’s underbone step-throughs (AKA ‘Kapchais’)

Honda (UK), in association with Honda Finance, has added a new and exciting model to its line-up of stars in the ‘The Legend of Zero’ 0% APR finance show reel.

The script – which enables customers to gain their freedom on two-wheels for minimal cost – now includes the Honda VT125C Shadow which boasts the looks and proportions of a big American cruiser. It has wide handlebars, teardrop tank, punchy, liquid-cooled 90-degree V-twin motor, chunky wire-spoked wheels and chromed two-into-one exhaust, but, has the running costs and practicality of a smaller machine.

This stylish cruiser joins the other ‘Legend of Zero’ stars which include one of Britain’s best-selling motorcycles – the sleek CBR125R – and four of Honda’s most popular scooters: the SH125i, SH300i, PS125i and ANF125i.

The CBR follows the design of Honda’s awesome sports bikes – the CBR600RR and CBR1000RR Fireblade – but distils the formula down into a practical and user-friendly package for learners and commuters alike. Last year the CBR125R was one of the best-selling motorcycles in the UK, appearing in the top ten of overall best-sellers.

Meanwhile, in the competitive scooter category, Honda leads the way with a breadth of machines unrivalled in the class. The SH125i combines a nippy four-stroke engine with sure-footed 16-inch ‘big-wheel’ handling, its bigger brother the SH300i offers all the ability of the 125i, but with the punch and performance of a mid-range machine. The ANF125i Innova is the true, spiritual successor to the original Honda Cub C90, offering step-through practicalities with modern technology and economy. The PS125i range is currently on offer in standard, ‘sporty’ and ‘special editions’, but each offers style, comfort and convenience as standard whether you’re commuting or just enjoying the ride.

Each and every one of ‘The Legend of Zero’ machines offer performance, practicality, reliability, fun, frugal fuel consumption and low running costs compared to other forms of transport!

From now until the end of the year you can purchase one of Honda’s stellar cast of lightweight motorcycles and scooters for as little as 10% deposit with finance over 24 months at 0% APR!

Honda (UK)’s ‘The Legend of Zero’ is showing now until 31 December 2008, so visit your local Honda dealer to meet the cast.

Honda Motorcycle dealers can be located by calling Honda on 0845 200 800, or by using the ‘Dealer Search’ facility within the motorcycles area on www.honda.co.uk, where you can also find all the latest news and information about the full Honda motorcycle range, offers, genuine parts and accessories and forthcoming events.

バイカーブードゥー

Honda (UK) is pleased to confirm its continued commitment to the British Superbike Championship for 2009 with the HM Plant Honda team on the CBR1000RR Fireblade.

Building on their long term relationship since 2004, Honda (UK) Racing and HM Plant will be looking to continue their successful partnership and performance for the sixth consecutive year, in what is considered the strongest domestic motorcycle racing championship in the world.

Steve Martindale, General Manager of Honda (UK) Motorcycles, commented, “I’m very happy to confirm Honda’s commitment to the British Superbike Championship for 2009 and also the team’s continued relationship with HM Plant. The British Superbike Championship is very strong and the high standard of rider talent and racing can be seen at every round. This was further highlighted by the excellent and highly competitive performances of the British riders, including HM Plant Honda riders Leon and Cal, who took part in the recent UK round of the World Superbike Championship. The team is still very much focused on the final two rounds of this season however, before turning its full attentions to preparations for the 2009 championship.”

HM Plant Chairman, John Jones, said, “We have been delighted with our relationship with Honda and the exposure achieved from the HM Plant Honda team partnership over the last five years and look forward to that continuing for many years to come.”

Honda (UK) Racing has a long and successful history in both British and World motorcycle racing championships, taking the World Superbike Championship title in 1997, 2000 and 2002 before wrapping up the British Superbike title in 2006 and 2007 as HM Plant Honda with Ryuichi Kiyonari. The team has also won many other events, including British Supersport titles with Karl Harris and many North West 200 and Isle of Man races, most notably with TT legend John McGuinness.

The British Superbike Championship is the most hard-fought domestic motorcycle racing championship in the world, attracting sponsors and riders from across the globe. The championship’s profile has risen over the last few seasons as television ratings and ‘live’ attendances at the track have increased.

Currently in the British Superbike Championship, HM Plant Honda riders Leon Haslam and Cal Crutchlow are in second and fourth places respectively with just two rounds remaining. Team-mate Steve Brogan is leading the National Superstock 1000 Championship and sits in fifth in the British Supersport Championship.

Details of the HM Plant Honda riders and class entries for 2009 are still to be finalised, but for further information about Honda (UK) Racing and the HM Plant Honda team, please visit www.honda-racing.co.uk.

バイカーブードゥー

Suzuki Burgman 650 scooters will be hitting the streets of Birmingham and Manchester this month, as the AA take on a fleet of Burgmans as part of their rapid response two-wheel fleet.

With motorcycles making a return to the AA fleet for the first time since the mid-nineties, the Burgmans inclusion will be a welcome addition, helping to cut response times in city areas. With six Burgman 650s expected to go into Birmingham, four into Manchester and six in London, the AA Burgman fleet will be standard with the exception of a top-box, Garmin Zumo Sat Nav and the AA safety beacons and graphics.

Alan Garret of supplying dealer Motts motorcycles in Basingstoke commented, “We are very happy to assist the AA in their return to bike use. As we all know, motorcycles offer a great solution to beating congestion, and so it’s great to see a well-known organisation maximise the potential of two-wheels again.”

Look out for the Burgman AA machines on the roads of Birmingham and Manchester from 29th and 31st of July 2008.

For more information on this or any other Suzuki model, visit your local authorised Suzuki dealer, log on to www.suzuki.co.uk, or call the Suzuki Contact Centre on 0845 850 8800.

バイカーブードゥー

Hollyoaks actor, Stuart Manning, who plays Russell Owen in the hit Channel 4 television soap, has signed-up to race in the forthcoming ACU Suzuki GSX-R600 Trophy race, being held at Anglesey circuit in North Wales on the 26th and 27th July.

Manning, a keen motorcyclist, accepted the invitation to race in the one make race series, after watching the second round of the series in June as it supported the British Grand Prix at Donington Park in Leicestershire.

Talking about his forthcoming race, Stuart said, “I’m really excited about racing in the ACU GSX-R Trophy. I watched the guys race at Donington Park earlier this year, and was impressed by the format and standard of racing, so when Suzuki offered me a ride, I couldn’t refuse.”

With Hollyoaks filmed across the border in Liverpool, the Anglesey track, which underwent complete redevelopment just over 12 months ago, is virtually a home round for the 29 year-old actor, but despite this it will be his first race at the venue.

If you would like to cheer on Stuart in the GSX-R Trophy you can find more information by visiting www.gsxrtrophy.co.uk or www.suzuki.co.uk

バイカーブードゥー

In this day and age of crazy fuel prices and increasing congestion, more and more people are looking at getting on two wheels to help them break free. One if those who is taking to motorcycling is TV presenter Dominic Littlewood. Living in South West London, Dominic has sold his gas guzzling Chevy SSR and Plymouth Prowler to get back onto 2 wheels.

He grew up on Yamaha machinery, owning a TY50, FS1E and YZ250 just to name a few. Passing his test back in April, he has just taken charge of a Yamaha MT-03. With a punchy 660cc four-stroke engine, this middle-weight Yamaha is the perfect tool for getting around town economically and when the moment takes you, to get out on the open road for a fun blast. The quirky low riding position with such a powerful street presence, really appealed to Dominic’s taste for not following the norm.

He was quick to point out his desire to have another Yamaha ‘I am a bit of a petrol head but I can’t justify 4 wheels any more. The MT-03 is the perfect bike for me as it’s nimble and punchy and it’s got a low seat height – plus it’s got gallons of style! Personally, I am getting more and more concerned about my carbon footprint so riding bikes is one of the ways I can put something back. In return, I get to travel more efficiently and give less cash to The Man in fuel costs. I am really looking forward to helping promote the benefits of motorcycling and getting out and about over the summer.’

バイカーブードゥー

Community nurse, Lou Hartley is off on an exciting three­week tour of Europe by motorcycle. She will be visiting 10 countries and aims to raise a grand total of £40,000 for cancer charities: The Lavender Trust, Douglas Macmillan Research, Maggie’s Centre Nottingham and The Willow Foundation.

Plus, doing the trip on a motorcycle is no mean feat for Lou, when you consider that 6 months ago she didn’t even have a license and she’s a petite 5ft 2” and 8 stone wet through!

Lou was inspired to make the trip to help raise awareness of breast cancer in younger women after she was diagnosed with breast cancer just after turning 40 years of age. Whilst Lou is still recovering, her sister­in­law Alison has also had the disease at the age of 33. They’re living proof that the disease is striking women at a much earlier age and both Lou and Alison are determined to raise awareness of this issue as well as raise plenty of money for cancer charities.

Lou explains: “Whilst 80% of breast cancer cases occur in women over the age of 50, it seems the disease is becoming more common in younger women. And from the age of 20, women should self­examine from time to time! I’m one of the lucky ones because I was breast aware and the doctor’s caught it in the early stages, but many women aren’t so lucky.”

Accompanying Lou on the trip is professional photographer Tristan Poyser, who will be capturing the complete experience for the website. Tristan, who has volunteered 3 weeks of his time to make the journey, is an integral part of the Breast Quest Team and has been involved in their fundraising activities from the beginning.

Throughout the journey together, Lou and Tristan will be making a video documentary of the trip with blogs, photos and podcasts all of which will be posted on the Breast Quest website. The fundamental reason behind the trip is to turn the whole experience right from Lou’s diagnosis, through to the completion of the tour, into a book which will offer support to other people in the same uncertain situation in which cancer inevitably leaves them, their friends and their family.

It is hoped that the additional proceeds of the book will go towards raising even more money for the above charities.

In support of their quest, Yamaha Motor UK has stepped in to lend a hand by supplying the pair two motorcycles to make the trip on. Lou will ride an MT­03 whilst Tristan will be using Yamaha’s latest FZ6 Fazer S2. Both motorcycles are more than capable for the journey ahead and will provide comfortable and thrilling riding which will certainly add to the excitement of the whole adventure. The Breast Quest duo will kick off the trip in the Market Square, Nottingham on Saturday 19 July at 4pm. Lou and Tristan, riding their Yamahas, will be waved off by the Lord Mayor and accompanied by some 20 Nottingham Advanced Motorcyclists before they roar off to get the ferry.

If you or your company would like to offer your services or make a financial contribution to the trip please contact Lou or Tristan via the Breast Quest website. www.breastquest2008.co.uk

バイカーブードゥー

Stereophonics guitarist Richard Jones, took delivery of a brand-new Suzuki B-King muscle bike last week, just in time to appreciate the use of two wheels on National Ride to Work Day, taking place tomorrow (Wednesday 16th July).

The bass guitarist, from the legendary Welsh rock group, decided on the 1340cc Suzuki B-King for his regular trips through London to the recording studio and record company after falling for its futuristic styling and impressive performance.

Talking about the B-King, Jones, who has owned numerous bikes over the years commented, “I’m delighted with the B-King. It looks out of this world and despite its imposing size and power it’s actually incredibly easy to ride. I’ve been using it to get to the recording studio, and it’s dramatically dropped my journey times across town compared to the car, while being great fun too.”

As well as riding the B-King while he’s working in the UK, Jones will next be appearing on stage in the B-King’s homeland of Japan, as the Stereophonics play in Tokyo next week, before a return to the UK at the V Festival next month.

For more information on the Stereophonics visit www.stereophonics.com

National Motorcycle Week Info:
National Motorcycle Week is the annual campaign that demonstrates to the public, media and politicians the importance and popularity of motorcycling in the UK, and emphasises the important point that owners are from all walks of life and that riding has social, environmental and economic benefits.

Ride to Work Day on 16th July is the day when all bike and scooter owners are encouraged to ride to work and, if they can, take a friend or colleague with them. The day will highlight that motorcycling cuts congestion, pollution, journey times and is convenient and flexible.

バイカーブードゥー

The Northampton Schoolboy motocross Club played host to round five of the BYMX Championships, held at Woodford near Kettering at the weekend, with Relentless Suzuki Youth Academy riders James Dunn and Luke Dean participating in separate classes on their Suzuki RM85 machines

The weekend was full of mixed results for both the riders, but the overall results left them still in the running for the championship standings. With the track demanding a good start it was to see James taking the chequered flag with four top ten positions, including two podiums. This would see the small wheel 85 rider come away from the weekend with a fourth overall, but as luck would have it the current leader Jordan Godwin took sixth overall, so would see Dunn still claiming second in the championship standings and only 22 points separating the pair.

Luke Dean was to take his big wheel RM85 to podium positions having a great day on Saturday with first and second claimed. The Sunday however was to see a slightly different format, finishing in sixth and seventh positions. This would still see him taking second overall from the weekend, and a few positions claimed in the championship.

The next BYMX round is to be held at Cusses Gorse in August on Saturday and Sunday 23rd and 24th.

バイカーブードゥー

Relentless Suzuki Enduro rider, Paul Edmondson, prepares this week for the British round of the World Enduro Championship taking place at the Hafren Forest in Wales at the weekend.

Riding the two-stroke RM250, Edmondson makes a return to the world stage, where he recorded four championship titles and still retains the accolade of being the longest serving rider in the series history.

Talking about his return to the WEC, Edmondson commented, “I’m really looking forward to riding again next weekend. I’ve enjoyed a great deal of success in the championship over the years and using the RM250 gives me added confidence for the potentially tricky conditions.”

Edmondson, who suffered a rare ‘DNF’ at the Welsh Two Day Enduro last month, injuring his hand in the process, is almost back to full-strength and expects to be able to contest for a top spot after a promising ride last weekend in the Great Britain X Country event at Llanarmon, where despite running out of fuel showed great pace.

バイカーブードゥー

The upcoming Batman movie of 2008, ‘Dark Knight‘ will feature a very interesting new Batcycle. Called the Batpod, this new two-wheeler features huge 20″ front and rear tires, with hub-mounted motors. Designed by Nathan Crowley who designed the ‘Tumbler‘ Batmobile which is Batman’s primary land vehicle. Oddly the riding position is such that Batman sort of lies flat on the bike, legs extended backwards with his arms in two shields protecting the steering, throttle and braking controls.

The Batpod is armed with cannons, hooks and machine guns. The design itself looks like Judge Dredd‘s unbelievably fat-tyred Lawmaster crossbred with the skeletal Sachs Madass!

The much-anticipated film, which releases in cinemas across the world soon, is the follow up to the 2005 action hit Batman Begins. The Dark Knight reunites director Christopher Nolan and star Christian Bale, who again portrays the dual role of Bruce Wayne/Batman. Marking the release of The Dark Knight in the UK, Panasonic Toyota Racing adopted a new look at Silverstone recently with the Dark Knight artwork featured on the TF108s and the overalls of Jarno Trulli and Timo Glock, as well as the team’s motor home, which is why you see Jarno Trulli trying a riding pose on the Batpod. All I can say is it isn’t built for commuting in heavy traffic! Batman may not be too worried about tyres though, as the Batpod tyres look like they’re the same ones on the Tumbler Batmobile. Lucius Fox must have gotten ‘tired’ of keeping too many tyres in stock!

SOURCE

See below for a YouTube video of the Batpod on NBC

continue reading "DARK KNIGHT: BATMAN’S BATPOD"

UK bikers get the PGM-FI equipped ANF125i Innova, the European version of Asia’s underbone step-throughs (AKA ‘Kapchais’)

Honda (UK), in association with Honda Finance, has added a new and exciting model to its line-up of stars in the ‘The Legend of Zero’ 0% APR finance show reel.

The script – which enables customers to gain their freedom on two-wheels for minimal cost – now includes the Honda VT125C Shadow which boasts the looks and proportions of a big American cruiser. It has wide handlebars, teardrop tank, punchy, liquid-cooled 90-degree V-twin motor, chunky wire-spoked wheels and chromed two-into-one exhaust, but, has the running costs and practicality of a smaller machine.

This stylish cruiser joins the other ‘Legend of Zero’ stars which include one of Britain’s best-selling motorcycles – the sleek CBR125R – and four of Honda’s most popular scooters: the SH125i, SH300i, PS125i and ANF125i.

The CBR follows the design of Honda’s awesome sports bikes – the CBR600RR and CBR1000RR Fireblade – but distils the formula down into a practical and user-friendly package for learners and commuters alike. Last year the CBR125R was one of the best-selling motorcycles in the UK, appearing in the top ten of overall best-sellers.

Meanwhile, in the competitive scooter category, Honda leads the way with a breadth of machines unrivalled in the class. The SH125i combines a nippy four-stroke engine with sure-footed 16-inch ‘big-wheel’ handling, its bigger brother the SH300i offers all the ability of the 125i, but with the punch and performance of a mid-range machine. The ANF125i Innova is the true, spiritual successor to the original Honda Cub C90, offering step-through practicalities with modern technology and economy. The PS125i range is currently on offer in standard, ‘sporty’ and ‘special editions’, but each offers style, comfort and convenience as standard whether you’re commuting or just enjoying the ride.

Each and every one of ‘The Legend of Zero’ machines offer performance, practicality, reliability, fun, frugal fuel consumption and low running costs compared to other forms of transport!

From now until the end of the year you can purchase one of Honda’s stellar cast of lightweight motorcycles and scooters for as little as 10% deposit with finance over 24 months at 0% APR!

Honda (UK)’s ‘The Legend of Zero’ is showing now until 31 December 2008, so visit your local Honda dealer to meet the cast.

Honda Motorcycle dealers can be located by calling Honda on 0845 200 800, or by using the ‘Dealer Search’ facility within the motorcycles area on www.honda.co.uk, where you can also find all the latest news and information about the full Honda motorcycle range, offers, genuine parts and accessories and forthcoming events.

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