This year there are no end of surprises in store at this mega-event.

There is fascinating motor racing to discover such as the first LEV (Low Emission Vehicle) championship, demo shows and breathtaking freestyle performances – including multiple World Stunt Riding Championship winner Chris Pfeiffer on his BMW F 800 R.

You can also demonstrate your own motorcycling skills under professional guidance on e-scooters, electric bicycles, quads, travel enduro bikes, hard enduros and many other two-wheel vehicles.

As every year, the BMW Motorrad stand will once again be a real attraction. In Hall 6, BMW Motorrad exhibits in collaboration with Husqvarna on a surface area of 1,400 square metres. Here you can experience the entire world of BMW Motorrad, with all BMW Motorrad motoring racing highlights including an autograph session with the factory riders.

We will also be providing a preview presentation of the 2011 BMW Motorrad Lifestyle Collection as well as many other fascinating innovations by BMW Motorrad.

But the highlight of the year is the presentation of a world first. At INTERMOT BMW Motorrad presents a real revolution in the touring bike segment: the BMW K 1600 GT and the BMW K 1600 GTL. Two unique touring machines with a common engine: the lightest and most compact 6-cylinder in-line engine in a serial production motorcycle.

INTERMOT website may be found here.

As it stands, the list includes names such as Kawasaki, Honda, Yamaha, Triumph, Suzuki and Ducati.

Formerly the International Motorcycle and Scooter Show, the revamped NEC bike show is set to be the most popular since the event began in 1981.  This year there will be more emphasis on what visitors come to see – the bikes, as well as more opportunities to ride motorcycles under expert tuition and to see up to four freestyle motocross displays a day.

Similar to last year, the event will still offer a wide range of opportunities to buy merchandise and to see the more eccentric motorcycle designs offered by Carole Nash’s Britain’s Got Biking Talent for example. 

BMW Motorrad will be displaying the brand new range of colours for our 2011 models, including two exciting new colours for the S 1000 RR.  They will also be showing off their whole range of class leading Rider Equipment, such as jackets, suits and helmets on a stand which BMW Motorrad aim to be awarded the best stand at the show once more.

The show will be the first opportunity for UK buyers to see BMW’s new range of 2011 motorcycles; including the new K 1600 GT and K 1600 GTL – plus a few surprises.

Carole Nash Motorcycle Live runs from 27th November to 5th December 2010 at the NEC, Birmingham.

BMW Motorrad press images & specifications may be found here.

Unfortunately they seem to be making this a freight only route and ceasing passenger operations.

This seems to be a backward step by DFDS which means the nearest passenger/vehicle ferry is the DFDS service from Newcastle to Ijmuiden.

DFDS Press Release:August 20th 2010

Please note that from the 15th December 2010 DFDS Seaways will be expanding its freight service from Rosyth to Zeebrugge to a two-ship operation, allowing freight capacity on the service to be improved. However, the route will no longer operate as a combined passenger and freight service, and therefore the passenger service will be withdrawn from this date.

The latest edition has just arrived & contents may be seen here.

Contents & subscription details may be found here.

BMW K 1600 GT and BMW K 1600 GTL-Fascination with six cylinders.

(Dutchman’s Next Motorcycle…………………..?)

Since BMW Motorrad presented the concept study Concept 6 in autumn 2009, the six-cylinder in-line engine featured in it has captured the imagination of many motorcycle fans. With BMW, six-cylinder in-line engines have stood for fascinating engine technology in automobiles for over seven decades, in a way which is unique among brands. In the near future, BMW motorcycles will also be available with an internally developed six-cylinder in-line engine.

With the BMW K 1600 GT and the BMW K 1600 GTL, BMW Motorrad is penetrating a whole new dimension in the Touring world of experience . Both motorcycles stand for a supreme, impressive and equally distinctive appearance, arousing a desire to travel at first sight.

This press release contains a range of information on all aspects of BMW Motorrad’s new touring bikes. Additional data and background information will be added for the world premiere.

Riding dynamics, long-distance suitability and comfort.

For decades, six-cylinder in-line engines have offered a special fascination. In addition to their perfect running smoothness they also offer supreme output and torque, giving the rider powerful emotional impressions, too. And of course the sound of a six-cylinder engine is beyond compare.

In addition to safety, equipment and prestige, the key criteria for a supreme touring bike are comfort and dynamics. With the most compact in-line six-cylinder engine in serial motorcycle production to date, the K 1600 GT and the K 1600 GTL penetrate a whole new dimension in terms of riding properties, long-distance suitability and comfort. They combine maximum agility and riding dynamics with a luxurious overall package. With an engine output of 118 kW (160 bhp) and a maximum torque of approx. 175 newton metres, their six-cylinder engine provides superb propulsion in all conditions.

BMW K 1600 GT with active riding ergonomics for proactive touring.

The dynamic touring bike BMW K 1600 GT is characterised by an active seating position which nonetheless offers a high level of long-distance comfort. The reason for this is the favourable set-up of the ergonomics triangle made up of footrests, seat and handlebars. The K 1600 GT has a very extensive range of standard features ex works consisting of xenon (HID) headlight, heated grips and seat, cruise control and on-board computer. These features in conjunction with the supreme riding qualities of the new BMW Motorrad six-cylinder engine leave nothing to be desired for the proactive tour rider.

BMW K 1600 GTL with very comfortable, relaxed ergonomics set-up for long trips with pillion passenger.

The luxurious touring bike BMW K 1600 GTL meets the highest demands. Rider and pillion passenger benefit from the relaxed, upright seating position as is especially appreciated over long distances. The ergonomics design is geared towards even further enhanced comfort and derives from a two-level seat in conjunction with rider footrests which are positioned further forward and lower down, as well as handlebars which reach further back. The standard topcase rounds off the range of comfort features for the pillion passenger. Like the K 1600 GT, the K 1600 GTL has a very extensive range of standard features consisting of xenon headlight, heated grips and seat, cruise control and on-board computer. The overall impression of this fascinating six-cylinder motorcycle with a carefully conceived storage concept, audio system as standard and numerous design elements make the BMW K 1600 GTL the flagship among BMW touring bikes.

An overview of highlights of the BMW K 1600 GT/GTL.

• Supreme in-line six-cylinder engine with a high level of pulling power, especially in the lower and medium engine speed range.
• Engine output 118 kW (160 bhp) at approx 7 500 rpm and maximum torque approx. 175 Nm at approx. 5 000 rpm.
• Over 70% of maximum torque available from 1 500 rpm.
• Lightest and most compact six-cylinder in-line engine in serial motorcycle production, weighing just 102.6 kg and measuring 560 mm in width.
• Consistent lightweight construction throughout the entire vehicle (magnesium front panel carrier, aluminium rear frame, crankshaft etc.).
• E-Gas (ride-by-wire).
• Three modes to choose from (“Rain”, “Road”, “Dynamic”)
• High active safety due to standard BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (part integral).
• Traction control DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) for maximum safety when accelerating (optional extra).
• Chassis with Duolever and Paralever and ideal concentration of masses for dynamic riding properties combined with optimum comfort.
• Electronic Suspension Adjustment ESA II for optimum adaptation to all uses and load states (optional extra).
• World premiere in motorcycles: Adaptive Headlight (optional extra) in conjunction with standard xenon headlight and lighting rings for increased safety at night.
• Integrated operating concept for the first time with Multi-Controller, TFT colour screen and menu guidance.
• Audio system with preparation for navigation device and controllable interface for iPod, MP3, USB, Bluetooth and satellite radio (only USA and Canada) (standard in the K 1600 GTL).
• Innovative design with outstanding wind and weather protection.
• K 1600 GT with active riding ergonomics for proactive touring.
• K 1600 GTL with very comfortable, relaxed ergonomics set-up for long trips with pillion passenger, as well as luxury touring features.
• Extensive fittings and individually tailored accessories at the familiar high level of BMW Motorrad.

First official BMW press images may be found here. ]]> http://dutchblog.net/?feed=rss2&p=191 0 http://dutchblog.net/?p=187 http://dutchblog.net/?p=187#comments Fri, 05 Mar 2010 10:20:49 +0000 Dutchman http://dutchblog.net/?p=187 SOLD!

Pending the arrival of my next ‘bike my beautiful R1200RT-SE is now for sale:

First Registered:24th April 2008

Mileage:8583

Tax Expires:30th April 2010

BMW Warranty Expires:24th April 2010

12 month Extended Insurance Warranty from 25th April 2010.

Bridgestone Battlax BT-021 tyres fitted at 6139 miles (No more than 20% worn).

As well as having the fullest factory specification & options there are also in excess of £4000.00 worth of accessories fitted.

• Biarritz Blue & Silver Lower Panels
• Chrome Exhaust
• Cruise Control
• Tyre Pressure Control (TPC)
• Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA)
• Automatic Stability Control (ASC)
• Heated Seats
• Heated Grips
• Radio & CD Player with MP3 Connection
• Power Sockets x 3
• 49 Litre Topcase
• 3 x BMW Luggage Inner bags
• BMW Tank Bag with 12v power and MP3 connection
• Alloy Engine Protectors
• Rear Mudguard Extension
• Front Mudguard Extension
• Pannier Protectors
• Garmin Zumo 550 GPS
• Garmin GTM 12 Traffic Receiver
• Baehr Ultima XL Communications System (Including two helmet head-sets fitted to your own helmets)
• GPS Mount
• BMW Alloy Oil Filler Cap
• Wunderlich Brake Pedal Extender
• Wunderlich Side Stand Extender
• Wunderlich Bar Risers
• Wunderlich Front Fender Extension
• Stebel Magnum Horn
• Triboseat Pillion Seat Cover
• BMW Auxiliary Mirrors

£9495.00

(ONO)

If you have any questions or wish to arrange viewing (In Edinburgh) my contact details are below:

iphone@dutchman.org.uk

07715 537073

0131 468 0497

It’s a fabulous collaboration and your download copy of this charity single can be obtained now by clicking the link below:

You can also click on the image below to find out more about The Prayer for Haiti….

A lawyer has told how he successfully completed the world’s toughest endurance race, despite cracking his ribs in a crash.

Paul Carlyle, 38, who lives in Leith, quit his day job for a month to compete in the notorious Dakar Rally.

He said he was “over the moon” to become only the second Scot ever to complete the rally on a motorbike.

But Mr Carlyle revealed how a “stupid” crash 11 days into the race nearly brought a premature end to his dreams.

The lawyer, from South Lanarkshire and who now lives in Edinburgh, said: “I went out and found a nice fast bit of track which I was really enjoying riding.

“I started passing a lot of riders, just riding a little bit faster than I had been doing. I made a small mistake in the dust and next thing I know I’m flying through the air.

“I cracked a couple of ribs. I think I landed on my head and I’d given my neck a bit of a shake around, some soft tissue damage, but I was able to get back on the bike and continue riding.

“Once I got on the bike I was fine.”

The rally, which historically ended in Dakar, Senegal, took place in South America for the second year running this year.

Starting in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the route headed north over the mountains to the Atacama desert in Chile then headed south to the Chilean capital, Santiago, and back to Buenos Aires.

Mr Carlyle, who could not ride a motorcycle 10 years ago, had to travel the equivalent of the distance between London and Edinburgh, off road, every day for more than a fortnight earlier this month.

The intellectual property lawyer, a partner at Shepherd and Wedderburn in Edinburgh, caught the Dakar bug when he got to know former winner Frenchman Cyril Despres at a charity event in the Moroccan desert.

On Thursday he spoke of his delight at finishing the 5,600-mile marathon after five years of planning for it.

He said: “My plan and ambition was to get to the rest day half-way through. I thought that was a realistic target, so I’m over the moon to get to the end.”

Mr Carlyle was helped during the race by mechanic Tony Woodham and Patsy Quick of Team Desert Rose Racing.

Great winter reading & well worth the subscription.

It contains full details of more than 20 professionally organised overseas motorcycle tours as well as BMW Off Road Skills & Rider Training courses based here in the UK.

Details & availability of all World of BMW Tours/courses may also be found here

BMW System 5 Helmet

In addition to the new BMW System 5 helmet described here I also have the following for sale:

Size:54-55

Colour:Magnesium Matt Metallic

Condition:Nearly new & used only a couple of times….

Complete with original BMW Motorrad draw-string helmet bag.

Item currently listed on eBay….

Six-cylinder power units have always had particular appeal, offering not only supreme smoothness and refinement, but also superior power and performance as well as a truly emotional driving – or, in this case, riding – experience. A further point is that the typical sound of a straight-six almost like a turbine is absolutely incomparable, with straight-six power units at BMW having stood for fascinating engine technology in BMW cars for more than seven decades.

Looking at motorcycles, inventive engineers have also tried time and again to offer the enthusiast the thrilling concept of a straight-six power unit. But while a few engines in straight-six configuration have indeed been fitted in motor­cycles both lengthwise and crosswise, the straight-six has never really made a genuine breakthrough neither on production models nor in motorcycle racing.

Depending on the way the engine was fitted, six cylinders in-line inevitably made the engine either very long or very wide, creating disadvantages in terms of the running gear, weight distribution, and the centre of gravity. A further drawback was much higher engine weight usually setting off the benefits of extra engine power.

The BMW Concept 6 now proves that a straight-six, benefiting from the most advanced construction and production technology, may offer not only unique prestige, but also a supreme standard of riding dynamics.

The new BMW straight-six will further expand the K-Series in the foreseeable future. The first model to be introduced will be an innovative and luxurious BMW touring machine. Reflecting the tradition of the BMW K-Series, this will of course be a genuine top-of-the-line product.

Highly compact and dynamic six-cylinder.

The starting point for this dynamic introduction of the straight-six in the new Concept 6 from BMW Motorrad is of course the extremely compact form and configuration of the engine. The power unit is approximately 100 mm or 4″ slimmer than all former straight-six production engines and only a bit wider than a large-capacity straight-four with conventional technology.

The reduction in width is achieved in particular by the slightly over-square bore: stroke ratio with relatively long stroke and very small gaps between cylinders. To achieve this very compact configuration with minimum width, the electrical ancillaries and their drive components are positioned behind the crankshaft in the open space above the transmission.

High-tech lightweight construction in all areas serves to make the power unit relatively light from the outset, important components in this context being the two hollow-drilled camshafts and the very light connecting rods. The perfect compensation of masses ensured by the configuration and layout of the engine avoids the need for a balance shaft and its drive elements on the new straight-six, which again means lower weight and enhanced running smoothness.

In its layout, the straight-six featured in the Concept 6 follows the well-known straight-four in the K 1300 model series, again coming with cylinders tilted to the front by 55o. This ensures not only a low centre of gravity, but also very good weight balance as an element essential above all under sporting conditions for precise feeling and clear feedback from the front. A further advantage is that the tilted engine provides extra space for the aerodynamically positioned intake manifold directly above the engine and allows ideal configuration of the frame profiles following the flow of power.

The straight-six featured in the BMW Motorrad Concept 6 comes with dry sump lubrication. Apart from greater reliability even under extreme conditions, dry sump technology serves to keep the crankcase particularly low and flat, with the engine being fitted lower down and masses concentrated around the centre of gravity. Doing without an oil sump, the engine may be positioned far lower than on a conventional layout.

The oil reservoir is provided by an oil tank integrated at the rear of the engine block. This avoids the need for a separate tank, again helping to make the entire power unit more compact and reduce weight to a minimum.

Maximum supremacy in running refinement and performance.

Designed and laid out as a straight-six, the engine also opens up new dimensions in motorcycling in terms of supremacy, power reserves, performance and running refinement.

Output of the new six-cylinder will be in approximately the same range as on BMW’s 1.3-litre straight-four power units. Torque, on the other hand, will be right at the top of the range, even in comparison with the largest motorcycle engines, such superior power and muscle coming inter alia from engine capacity of no less than 1.6 litres.

The engine’s power and performance characteristics are equally impressive, offering 130 Nm or 96 lb-ft of torque from just 2,000 rpm and at the same time revving up almost to 9,000 rpm – a dynamic potential quite unparalleled in the tourer segment. This alone qualifies the engine of the Concept 6 as the ideal power unit for a wide range of different motorcycles.

Environmental compatibility and all-round economy re-defined.

The Concept 6 shows the absolute supremacy of its six-cylinder drive system also in ecological and economic terms. Fuel consumption of this six-cylinder naturally equipped with a fully controlled catalytic converter is lower than on a comparable four-cylinder under normal touring conditions. The use of E-gas technology (ride-by-wire) then offers further potentials for enhanced fuel economy and riding dynamics throughout a wide range of different riding modes and conditions. And last but not least in this context, the straight-six power unit featured in the Concept 6 offers long inspection intervals through the use of cup tappets controlling the engine valves.

Dynamic and powerful design in Café Racer style.

Supremacy and dynamism are also borne out clearly by the thrilling design of the Concept 6 and, as usual, this project from BMW Motorrad is more than “just” the attempt to develop a motorcycle of a kind never seen before.

Working on Concept 6, the designers at BMW Motorrad have therefore focused yet again on technical function and quality and, in particular, the emotional element bringing together man and machine. Their rule, quite simply, is that a motorcycle must not only follow the laws of functionality, but also arouse emotion in all its facets. In a nutshell, therefore, the machine must be simply thrilling.

Precisely this is why the design of the Concept 6 focuses in particular on the powerful straight-six engine as the heart of the machine. Conceived as a mixture of classic and modern styling elements in motorcycle construction, the Concept 6, with its long front end and short rear, takes up the design language of the legendary Café Racer. Powerful and muscular, the body elements extend around the power unit finished in a special platinum colour, presenting the engine almost adoringly from every angle.

Smooth and soft lines ensure fully organic integration of the power unit within the machine, while at the same time they create a powerful, exciting and dynamic contrast to the sharply contoured front and rear ends.

The so-called Split Face, a well-known design element of the latest models from BMW Motorrad, extends smoothly from the front of the fairing all along the top of the fuel tank made of carbon-fibre, again confirming the high technological standard of the Concept 6 and forming an exciting contrast to the outer shell in aluminium with its white layers. The division into three sections created by the Split Face is further accentuated at the front by the LED headlight integrated longitudinally in the machine in its rod shape and by the slender LED rear light extending far up into the seat hump.

The powerful and supreme character of the Concept 6 is also underscored by the six-chamber exhaust system complete with sidepipes and the strong presence of the intake ducts again finished in platinum look. Aerodynamic components such as the twin-tipped engine spoiler and the air guide elements derived from the design of the new S 1000 RR Supersports, on the other hand, bridge the gap between functional and clearly visible technology, on the one hand, and the soft and smooth design of other body elements, on the other.

Innovative suspension technology and equipment

The suspension of the BMW Motorrad Concept 6 is built around a light-alloy bridge frame as well as Duolever and lightweight Paralever arms holding and guiding the wheels front and rear. Seventeen-inch HP forged wheels as well as the extra-large brake system with its six-piston fixed callipers emphasise the sporting look of the new machine and its high level of technology.

The outstanding supremacy of the Concept 6 and its drivetrain is also reflected by details such as the instrument panel intentionally kept in minimalist design but nevertheless completely equipped with all the instruments and gauges required. While a digital display performs its usual function of clearly presenting road speed, there is intentionally no rev counter on account of the supreme flow of power at all speeds. So instead of a conventional rev counter, a LED display shows the rider at all times how much torque is readily available whenever required.

Overview of the main features of the new R 1200 RT:

• New, even more dynamic engine with two overhead camshafts per cylinder.
• Maximum torque increased to 120 Nm (88 lb-ft) at 6,000 rpm, maximum output remaining at 81 kW (110 hp) at 7,750 rpm.
• Increase in maximum engine speed from 8,000 to 8,500 rpm, with an even broader useful range of engine speed.
• Significantly improved torque, traction, pulling force, and acceleration.
• Even more spontaneous and direct response with optimum dosage of power and significantly improved load change behaviour.
• Torque curve even smoother and more homogeneous.
• Cylinder head covers now with two instead of four fastening bolts and in new, even more dynamic design.
• Electronically controlled exhaust flap for superior and powerful sound.
• ESA II Electronic Suspension Adjustment with damping, spring base and now also spring rate adjustable at the touch of a button.
• BMW Motorrad Integral ABS featured as standard in the partly integrated version.
• Fairing in new design with protection from wind and weather improved once again.
• Re-designed cockpit with visor.
• New control units and hydraulic reservoir.
• Electronically controlled windshield with optimised aeroacoustics and improved transparency.
• New audio system with controllable interface for a USB/MP3 and iPod, operated through the Multi-Controller.
• Adjustable footshift lever.
• Hard-shell cases (each with a capacity of 32 litres) featured as standard, with accurately fitting four-point lock system and cover finished in body colour.
• Tank railing for conveniently fastening accessories.
• New colours for the R 1200 RT: Polar metallic, Ostra Grey metallic matt, Thunder Grey metallic, multi-colour paintwork in conjunction with Thunder Grey metallic base colour.
• Extended range of optional extras and special equipment tailored to the R 1200 RT, naturally in top BMW quality.

BMW press release (PDF) may be found here.

More images may be found here.

The main features of the new BMW R 1200 GS and the new BMW R 1200 GS Adventure at a glance:

• New, even more dynamic drivetrain now with two overhead camshafts per cylinder and valves in radial arrangement.
• Increase in engine output by 5 per cent to 81 kW (110 hp) at 7,750 rpm and maximum torque to 120 Nm (88 lb-ft) at 6,000 rpm.
• Increase in maximum engine speed from 8,000 to 8,500 rpm with an even wider range of useful engine speed.
• Significantly better acceleration, torque and pulling power.
• Electronically controlled exhaust flap for even more muscular sound.
• Colour variants of the R 1200 GS: Alpine White non-metallic, Magma Red non-metallic, Ostra Grey matt metallic, Sapphire Black metallic.
• Colour variants of the R 1200 GS Adventure: Smoke Grey matt metallic, Brilliant Yellow metallic.
• Optional extras and accessories tailored to each model with BMW’s usual high level of quality.
• New additional headlight in LED technology for the R 1200 GS (accessory).

BMW press release (PDF) may be found here.

More images may be found here.

BMW press release (PDF) may be found here.

More images may be found here.

For the BMW Motorrad authority business worldwide, the Milipol exhibition in Paris is the most important show as it is dedicated to internal state security issues. This year will be the 25th anniversary of the Milipol exhibition and BMW Motorrad will be in Paris from 17 to 20 November to exhibit a range of motorcycles and rider equipment especially developed and dedicated for ‘authority’ use.

Held at the Porte de Versailles exhibition centre, the 16th edition of the Milipol show is only open to public and industrial security professionals, and covers areas such as law enforcement, anti-terrorism, the prison service, forensic science, border control, port and airport security, and of course road safety.

With more than 80 years in the authorities business, BMW Motorrad has a colourful history in this sector, with many of its machines covering the major needs of various groups, including courier services, presidential and dignitary escort duties, highway patrols, etc. The 2009 exhibition stand will include some exciting displays, including two new world premieres, which will be unveiled in the French capital. Authority machines on display that can be mentioned now include the R 1200 RT, the single-cylinder G 650 GS, the R 1200 GS civilian version in white, and the Firexpress R 1200 RT fire fighting motorcycle.

“With more than 110,000 police version motorcycles sold to authorities in more than 150 countries since 1970, BMW Motorrad is well prepared to welcome authority delegations from all over the world to our booth, as well as police and fleet managers,” said Torsten Löhner from BMW’s Worldwide Special Customer Sales division. “As well as the motorcycles, we will also present the Airflow and Police 5 authority motorcycle clothing suits, the new System 6 helmet, and boots and gloves from the civil collection.

“All authority motorcycles and rider equipment is developed and tested by BMW Motorrad’s research and development department in Munich. Besides the extensive range of options for civil customers, these special machines are equipped with many unique features, fittings and modifications especially for authority use. These include features such as LED lights for the front and the rear ‘pole’ that helps increase the visibility of the motorcycle and rider in dangerous or vulnerable conditions; siren; special authority panniers; and the option of ‘full interference suppression’ which avoids any possible problems with interference to the engine management and ABS functions caused by the use of radios and other communications devices.”

As well as being the only manufacturer to offer these specialised motorcycles completely developed and tested by its own R&D department, BMW Motorrad also has a dedicated assembly line in its Berlin factory that ensures all BMW Motorrad’s renowned quality controls apply to these unique motorcycles. As well as authority motorcycles, BMW Motorrad also offers a wide range of training and service activities – either directly or via its highly qualified organisation, and spare parts are available for up to 15 years after the end of a model’s production.

The last Milipol show was held in 2007 and attracted 956 exhibitors, with more than 26,000 visitors coming from 42 countries, as well as 58 official delegations and nearly 500 journalists who came to Paris to cover the event. With the 2009 Milipol exhibition celebrating 25 years of success, record visitor numbers are expected, so BMW Motorrad is looking forward to establishing many new contacts and welcoming visitors from all the major markets.

For more information on the Milipol show at the Porte de Versailles, please visit the www.milipol.com website, which is available in French and English language versions.

Their particular flat in a Victorian tenement building had previously been occupied by an elderly lady for the past 40 years or so and apart from the addition of central heating a decade ago and a complete electrical re-wire at about the same time, very little had been done during her tenure to modernise anything else or indeed take care of any essential works required to the fabric of the building.

At some stage during an early viewing of the property I vaguely remember ‘volunteering’ to renovate it for them prior to them moving in, really hoping that they changed their minds and bought something a little more modern!

Now about halfway through the project, progress is slow but I have every confidence that they’ll be able to move in on 5th December as planned even if that means me working there 12 hours a day, seven days a week….!

Although I’m undertaking the vast majority of the work myself, sincere thanks are due to Steve the plasterer, Davey the electrician and Andy & Mark the plumbers for refinishing the worst of the walls, installing a new consumer unit, moving a gas pipe and making a new connection to the cast-iron soil pipe.

They say every picture tells a story and the growing image collection for this project may be found here.

This is what a safe, environment-friendly and highly practical single track vehicle for city traffic could look like in the future. BMW Motorrad developed the C1-E study as a contribution to the European safety project eSUM. This study unit is based on the concept of the BMW C1. It is characterized by a very high level of active and passive safety and is driven by an electric motor.

The BMW C1-E provides exemplary protection for its rider. This is ensured by the safety cell with the conspicuous roll-over bar which dynamically spans the rider seat in combination with the energy-absorbing impact element at the nose end.

A further special point is that the C1-E rider wears a seat-belt. In the study this safety feature is highlighted by red belts and belt buckles.

Visually the concept vehicle expresses brand typical sheer driving pleasure and clearly distinguishes itself from typical scooter looks. Its lines are dynamically stretched and flow horizontally with a low visual centre of gravity. The fairing with its windscreen, the luggage space behind the rider and the side stand for effortless parking ensure high suitability for everyday riding combined with a high degree of wind and weather protection.

The electric motor employed in the study has been designed for city use and is based on components by the company Vectrix. The motor obtains its power from a lithium-ion battery and thus possesses sufficient power for mastering most inner-city traffic riding with ease. Alternatively the vehicle could also be equipped with an efficient, low-emissions internal combustion engine.

The safety features of the C1-E have been taken from the former BMW C1 and further enhanced. BMW’s avant-garde two-wheeler is regarded as a milestone in safety on two wheels. It is the only motorised single-track vehicle to be exempt from mandatory helmet wearing in almost all European countries.

This BMW Motorrad study is to remain the only model of its kind. Series production is currently not planned. Nevertheless, findings from the project will find their way into other future developments in the field of single-track vehicles.

eSUM stands for European Safer Urban Motorcycling. It is a cooperation project between major urban European motorcycling centres and motorcycle manufacturers.  The cities currently involved in the project include Paris, Rome, Barcelona and London and the manufacturers are BMW and Piaggio.

The advantage of two-wheeled transportation is that it offers a great opportunity for improving the flow of traffic in urban locations. Moreover, it is environmentally friendly and lends itself to individualisation. However, the vast majority of accidents occur in urban traffic, in areas where 80 percent of the population live. The idea behind eSum is to look into ways of countering this trend. The joint goal is the identification, development, and practical demonstration of measures which are able to guarantee safe motorcycle and motor-scooter transport in the inner-city traffic of the future.

One of BMW Motorrad’s major concerns over the last twenty years has been the improvement of motorcycle safety. This was amply demonstrated by the consistent strategy which has led to the Motorrad ABS and continued with its long-term ongoing development.

Only a few weeks ago, on August 31, the 1,000,000th BMW motorcycle with Integral ABS, a BMW K 1300 R, left the production line in Berlin-Spandau.

Since 2005, a series of further active safety features have been developed to enhance the safety BMW motorcycles still further: RDC Tyre Pressure Control, ASC Anti-Slip Control, the new Race ABS and the DTC Traction Control incorporated in the new BMW S 1000 RR, not to mention the innovative range of BMW Motorrad rider equipment.

Over and above this, BMW Motorrad is also conducting research into forward-looking rider assistance systems designed to increased road safety, as part of the ConnectedRide project. Features being looked at include cross-traffic and traffic-light assistance as well as a warning system for impending poor weather, road obstacles, an approaching emergency vehicle, or sudden braking manoeuvres.

For more information about eSUM please see:  www.esum.eu

More images may be found here.

The boxer-engine tourer is as popular as ever with owners and, as if to emphasise its touring capabilities, the RT also topped the Best Tourer category – for the fourth consecutive year.

Simon Weir, Deputy Editor of RiDE magazine summed up the R 1200 RT after a recent test, “The BMW RT is so much more than just a tourer. In standard form, minus any of its electronic trickery, heated everything, sat nav and radio, it’s simply an excellent motorbike. Well made, surprisingly sporty and boasting brilliant dealer support. A worthy winner, yet again, of RiDER POWER.”

RiDER POWER Survey awards reflect the opinions of serious motorcyclists. Not only was the R 1200 RT highly acclaimed; BMW rider clothing and dealer services were also commended by UK owners.

Customers voted the, new for 2009, K 1300 GT to a very creditable fourth in the overall standings, whilst the global-trotting R 1200 GS Adventure and bahnstorming K 1200 S gave BMW Motorrad four bikes in the top ten.

BMW Motorrad’s excellent dealer network and exemplary customer service was also recognised by the survey’s voters, with four BMW Dealers in the best top twenty in the country.

BMW Rider Equipment was also voted to be some of the best on the market with BMW leather jeans and jackets voted the best to crash in(!). Three of the top ten quietest helmets were BMW designed whilst  Motorrad’s highly technical textile suits were second in their very competitive class.

Adrian Roderick, General Manager of BMW Motorrad UK said, “I’m very honoured that not just BMW bikes but our rider clothing and dealer network have been voted by RiDE magazine readers to be some of the best in the country. Our team work very hard to bring customers the best of what being a biker is all about. We offer great bikes, state-of-the-art clothing and accessories and a customer focused dealer network. There is no higher accolade than that of acknowledgement from the bike riding public.”

Full details from the RiDER POWER survey are available in the November issue of RiDE magazine, on sale now

System 6 is the latest in a long line of motorcycle helmets that can trace its history back to 1981 and the first ‘System’ produced by the German manufacturer. Since then, developments in materials technology, crash test data collection and changing consumer requirements have propelled innovations in the helmet’s design.

Now, almost two decades later with the arrival of the System 6, BMW Motorrad has released its most accomplished helmet to date. Its predecessor – System 5 – proved popular; however BMW Motorrad was wary of becoming complacent in the highly competitive helmet sector, as Project Leader for Motorcycle Helmets Bernhard Neuheuser explains:

“Like everything in the world, the helmet industry is constantly changing. If manufacturers stand still, they get left behind, so there is the need to continually develop products. Competitors regularly release new products, so although the System 5 was a great product, we couldn’t be complacent and had to design a product that was even better than its predecessor – and that’s where System 6 comes in.”

In addition to boasting a minimal weight of 1,570g for the smaller shell version, the latest System 6 is one of the quietest flip-fronts on the market and comes with a drop down sun visor. It’s also more compact than System 5 with a cleverly designed chin bar pivot which optimises the size of the helmet when the chin bar is in an upright position.

As ever, BMW Motorrad has placed an emphasis on safety and System 6 possesses exceptionally high standards of impact absorption and has an extra neck band to prevent the helmet from twisting on impact, ensuring it remains in the best possible position on the rider’s head.

Before the helmet was made available to the public, the design was subject to intensive tests to ensure its integrity. The visor, for example, was lifted up and down 25,000 times, while the chin bar mechanism was tested 10,000 times in order to recreate the everyday strains it was bound to experience in the real world.

BMW Motorrad also tested the helmet’s aerodynamics and aero-accoustics in a variety of simulated weather conditions including wind, rain and extreme temperatures, all under the supervision of Neuheuser.

The Project Leader is immensely proud of the System 6, and in particular, the innovation and progress in technology that the helmet represents. “One of the most impressive aspects of System 6 is the four-lever mechanics within the chin part,” he says. “Traditionally, the chin part has just one pivot point, however the System 6 features four levers, resulting in a elliptic movement, rather than a circular movement. This has allowed the size of the helmet to be reduced dramatically when the chin part is up.

“However, the unique chin part is only one of many features that make the System 6 stand out,” he continues. “Our helmets are traditionally a combination of features that work together to create distinctiveness. For example, System 6 combines a sun visor, anti-fog feature and a reduced weight with the four-lever system, plus the forthcoming optional communications system will be unlike anything else on the market.”

With competition fierce in the motorcycle helmet sector, System 6 represents another step forwards for the German manufacturer and includes several new features for a BMW Motorrad safety helmet, including anti-fog technology and a sun visor. From August, System 6 will also be available with the in-helmet communications system option featuring Bluetooth technology and using BMW Motorrad’s Navigator IV system.

Although System 6 represents the pinnacle of technology at present, further advancements in visor design, construction techniques, materials and industry standards will inevitably lead to a successor to System 6’s crown from BMW Motorrad. So what does Neuheuser foresee these developments will be?

“The future for the motorcycle helmet sector is good, but it’s not easy to predict what advancements will be made as we are currently working with what is physically possible,” he says. “I can see electronic tinted visors proving successful in the future for example, but can’t see how carbon fibre construction will be economically viable. I think that it would be beneficial for a new standard to be introduced in the industry as this may prove to be the catalyst for further development and new technologies.”

Key features of System 6:

• Low weight: 1,570 g (smaller shell), 1,670 g (larger shell)
• Extra neck band to prevent the helmet from twisting
• Excellent aero-acoustics
• Chin guard with quadruple-joint mechanism
• Double visor as standard
• Drop-down sun visor.

More images may be found here.

Fittingly, riders with professional racing ambitions will find that the new DoubleR collection is a complete, tailor-made range of rider`s equipment, produced with only the finest materials and to a high level of manufacturing excellence. The products’ designs consciously reveal their close affinity to motorsport: just as much attention has been given to their look and comfort as to such factors as safety and a love of detail.

The DoubleR collection comprises a leather suit, helmet, boots and gloves. Together they make up a complete outfit, which is ideal not only for riders of the new supersports bike, the BMW S 1000 RR, but also for all other ambitious riders.

For the helmet and boots, existing successful products were taken and their design enhanced yet further, while the suit and gloves are completely new product developments. The DoubleR collection will be presented at the EICMA international motorcycle show in Milan this coming November.

DoubleR Suit – Superbike performance for the road.

The one-piece racing suit in BMW Motorrad motorsport design is made of  highly wear-resistant kangaroo leather, only 1.0 millimetre thick, making it 20% lighter than regular suits made of calf leather. It is also notable for its skin-tight fit.

The DoubleR suit is extremely pleasant to wear while also providing a very high level of active safety. The integrated and non-removable NP protectors at the shoulders, elbows, hips and knees offer a high degree of protection and are extremely effective in absorbing impacts.

The extended-length, removable back protector is anatomically formed in 3D to provide a wide area of protection and enhanced safety for the spine, shoulder blades and kidneys.

The collarbone is additionally protected by an integrated impact-absorbent material. The new, plastic-injected, INOX stainless steel shoulder and elbow sliders distribute the force peaks to the underlying protectors and facilitate sliding in the event of a fall. Replaceable standard-production sliders made of hard plastic are employed in the knee areas. A zip is also provided for integrating the BMW Neck Brace System.

The torso, sleeves and legs of the suit are strongly preformed in line with standard racing posture, while the hump, which is a typical feature for this segment, has the effect of improving aerodynamics. The perforated leather areas, together with the TFL® cool coating of the black leather, prevent the suit from becoming excessively hot in high temperatures. At low temperatures, the windblocker undervest, supplied with the suit, can be used to protect the rider from the cold. The pre-fitted knee sliders are supplied as standard, as is a high-quality suit bag.

The DoubleR suit will be available in the colour combinations blue/white/red and black/white/red.

DoubleR Helmet – consistent coordination work.

The DoubleR helmet has been developed from the Sport helmet model. The classic design employs the BMW Motorrad motorsports colours of blue/white/red, making it the perfect match for the DoubleR collection.

The extra spoiler, which is especially constructed to maximise the aerodynamic properties of the BMW S 1000 RR and its narrow windshield, offers increased stability at high speeds.

DoubleR Boots – design enhanced by professionals.

The DoubleR boots are an enhanced design of the existing, professionally featured Sport boots and which have been especially developed for riders intending to employ the BMW S 1000 RR for sports use. The new features include large hook-and-loop-fastender inside zip covers for simplifying foot insertion. The blue nylon soles have been reinforced and refashioned to match the metal footrests of the S 1000 RR. The new boots will be available in the colour combination white/black.

DoubleR Gloves – safety meets comfort.

The DoubleR gloves are of a completely new design and made of 100% kangaroo leather. To improve its protective properties, the palm material is partially doubled and fitted with a Kevlar® underlay. The more at-risk zones are fitted with impact-absorbing Suprotect® foam in varying thicknesses.

Also, stingray leather is incorporated in the hand edges. This is a natural material with a strong inherent structure and combines the great safety of leather with the comfort of modern textiles. The stingray leather’s grainy structure has several benefits: it slides well without becoming hot, it is extremely wear-resistant, and although it has hard spots, it is in itself quite flexible.

A finger bridge reinforced with Kevlar® protects the little finger in the event of a fall, while the wrist is protected by an anatomically formed hard-plastic shell in BMW Motorrad design.

The strongly pre-curved cut guarantees a fold-free fit. The knuckle shell, made of GFK, is made in three different sizes, for an improved fit. Stretch material is incorporated underneath the hard shell and the leather stretch inserts at the bottom of the fingers increase their agility.
The DoubleR gloves will be available in black and in the classic BMW Motorrad motorsport colours of blue/white/red.

More images may be found here.

SOLD!

BMW System 5 Helmet

Size:50-51

Colour:Magnesium Matt Metallic

Condition:Brand new & unused/undamaged in any way.

Complete with original BMW Motorrad draw-string helmet bag.

Item currently listed on eBay….

]]> http://dutchblog.net/?feed=rss2&p=139 0 http://dutchblog.net/?p=135 http://dutchblog.net/?p=135#comments Sat, 19 Sep 2009 04:48:43 +0000 Dutchman http://dutchblog.net/?p=135 I spent the past two days on a 625 mile exploration of some of the finest National Parks in the UK.

The weather was great, the scenery awesome and the roads fabulous if not a little challenging in a few places.

It’s really difficult to put into words the sheer beauty of these areas and even photographs can’t begin to do justice to the awe-inspiring views & scenery.

Decent visibility on both days enabled me to try and capture the essence with a few photographs but I think the only way to fully appreciate these areas is to visit & simply absorb all that is going on around you.

Highlights of this trip included:

Lake District National Park :: Honsiter Pass
Whinlatter Pass :: Hard Knott Pass
Wrynose Pass :: Yorkshire Dales National Park
North York  Moors National Park :: Northumberland National Park

My overnight stay was at The Golden Lion in Leyburn, North Yorkshire.

Images of this trip may be found here.

MapSource Tracklog may be found here.

The weather was great all day and the roads quiet to start with….certainly until every other ‘biker in Scotland decided to come out to play….

Today’s images may be found here.

I made it with minutes to spare and so began my day’s ‘proper’ riding through Argyll & Bute.

Bute is a very small island to the west of the mainland, nestled between North Ayrshire & the Kintyre peninsular.

The  CalMac ferry arrived in the principal town, Rothesay a little over thirty minutes after setting off from the Wemyss Bay terminal and minutes later I was heading south along the coast road intending to explore the extremities of Bute before heading to the north and the much smaller ferry linking Rhubodach and Colintraive back on the mainland.

These are roads I’ve never travelled before and making the most of the experience I headed south east from Colintraive until I ran out of road at Coustonn on the western shore of Loch Striven.

It doesn’t seem to matter how remote one travels, there always seems to be evidence if the current global economic downturn and Loch Striven is no different where shipping giant Maersk have rafted four of their huge container ships because there is no work for them, much to the annoyance of local residents.

Retracing my steps, I continue north past Colintraive along the shores of Loch Riddon until I stop at the viewpoint at Tighnabruaich where the views across the Kyles of Bute are nothing short of breath-taking.

I’d never ridden the coast road north from Millhouse via Otter Ferry & Strachur, on the east side of Loch Fyne, to Glen Kinglas and although this is a stunning area with great biking roads an hour or so of low cloud and drizzle reduced visibility enough to make photograph’s useless.

Once back on better roads Inveraray, Crianlarich, Crieff & Glen Devon pass quickly as I head homewards reflecting on the outstanding beauty of this area of Scotland and how fortunate I am to have it all so close to home.

With over 300 miles covered today this was a truly great trip around Argyll & Bute with a healthy slice of Perthshire thrown in for good measure.

Today’s images may be found here.

Hitherto a less obstructed rear mirror view has been obtained by moving my head  a little more which is not always practical or indeed safe.

I recently fitted a pair of auxiliary mirrors, originally fitted as original equipment on the 2002 BMW K1200RS.

Made of high impact plastic these mirrors fit into the vacant holes in the RT switchgear and are moulded to accommodate the shape of the switch casing perfectly. They certainly look as if they were made for the ‘bike!

Although a little expensive, they are easy to fit and provide an uninterrupted rear view slightly outboard of the OE mirrors. A downside may be that the twin mounting arm slightly obstructs the OE mirror which is thus relegated to a secondary rear view mirror.

The degree of obstruction will vary according to rider height & the fitting/omission of bar risers but for me  they are a much welcome addition to the ‘bikes safety equipment, especially as bar mounted mirrors provide useful views at oblique junctions etc, which fairing mounted ones cannot match.

The addition of these mirrors does not foul the edge of the OE screen in any postion while handlebars turned to either lock.

Images of my installation may be found here.

BMW parts required:

1 x 51.16.7.653.773 (Left Mirror)

1 x 51.16.7.653.774 (Right Mirror)

2 x 51.16.2.328.287 (Nut)

2 x 51.16.2.309.607 (Wave Washer)

Total cost from UK BMW Motorrad dealers:£107.53 inc VAT

Somebody once said, ‘If it ‘aint broke, don’t fix it…..’

Never has that saying been more true than in the case of my recent experiment with a low seat on my 16 month old R1200RT.

Given that it’s predecessor was a R1200GS (with standard height seat) the lower standard seat of the RT was a most welcome change and in it’s lowest position enabled me to ALMOST plant my feet flat on the ground therefore giving me much better control maneuvering.

Over a year passed with the new RT without a hint of  a problem with the standard seat so illogically I decided to acquire a low seat to try out.

My local dealer didn’t have one for me to borrow so I quickly found a brand new one on a well known auction website.

It arrived quickly but nearly three months went by before I had a chance to try it out.

Less than 100 miles later it was clear to me that although very comfortable in the seating area I was TOO close to the ground and my knees were bent just that extra bit to make riding any distance not as comfortable.

I’m 5′9″ tall with a 29″ inside leg measurement and after all this it’s now proven that the standard seat suits me just fine!

Therefore the barely used heated low seat acquired for this evaluation is now for sale on eBay.

The BMW Motorrad Navigator IV is a top-of-the-line Garmin navigator designed exclusively for BMW motorcycles. Ready to go right out of the box, it has everything a rider could need. The portable, 4.3-inch navigator has a bright touchscreen display that is glove-friendly and comes preloaded with detailed street maps with millions of points of interest that include locations like restaurants, gas stations, ATMs, hotels and specific street addresses.

After the rider selects a destination, the system calculates the best route and gives turn-by-turn, voice-prompted directions to the final destination. This feature can also work with a compatible Bluetooth enabled helmet or headset. The BMW Motorrad Navigator IV’s stereo (A2DP) Bluetooth wireless technology makes it possible for riders to pair their phone to a Bluetooth enabled helmet or handset so that they can safely talk on the phone or listen to MP3’s without having to remove their gloves or helmet.

More images may be found here.

PDF manual for BMW Motorrad Navigator IV may be found here.

Today’s ride out was no more than 140 miles and at no time was I more than about 30 miles from home, as the crow flies.

Starting with coffee at the local BMW Motorrad dealership in Dalkeith, I headed in a southerly direction on the well-worn A7 until the west bound turn at Galashiels which took me towards St Mary’s Loch & Moffat.

On impulse I deviated along the Ettrick valley for a while, roads never before ridden by me, before heading north west towards Tweedsmuir, stopping at the Megget & Talla reservoirs for photographs.

It’s been almost three months since I’ve had a chance to get out on the RT and 140 miles in decent weather proved to be just the tonic for severe post-holiday blues.

Today’s photo’s may be found here.

BMW Motorrad have recognised this hitherto untapped source of ideas and are currently holding the ‘BMW Motorrad Innovation Contest 2009….’

Click on image below for full details….

With no pre-planned route they intend taking each day as it comes & the whole trip will be recorded on their blog…

The BMW R1200GS’ are already en-route & personnel follow early next week….

Good luck everyone & have a great adventure….!

What started in 1969 with 400 employees and 30 units of the new BMW /5 model series built per day, had however already contributed through efficient production to the success of the BMW Group in the three preceding decades.

How it All Started – from Aircraft Engines to Motorcycles.

Berlin-Spandau became a BMW AG production plant back in 1939. Up to that time the plant had belonged to Siemens & Halske, which back then had built their new aircraft engine production facility where the BMW Plant is today, producing famous engines such as the Sh-14a radial power unit for the famous German Bücker 133c “Jungmeister” aerobatics biplane.

In 1936 the Siemens Aircraft Engine Plant was transformed into the independent company Brandenburgische Motoren Werke GmbH, which also built aircraft engines now under the name “Bramo”. In 1939 Bramo became part of BMW AG and served until the end of the war as the production plant for BMW aircraft engines including the nine-cylinder radial power units for the legendary Junkers JU 52.

After the war the plant in Berlin-Spandau – like other factories and production facilities in Germany – was dismantled by the Allies. But in May 1945 some 100 employees at the plant were already producing various utensils for daily use, and after the currency reform the Berlin Plant began to build tools for BMW AG in Munich.

Production of motorcycles components for the BMW’s Main Plant in Munich started in 1949 as the first step in gradually moving motorcycle production from the River Isar in Munich to the River Spree in Berlin. And as of 1958, BMW car components were also built to an increasing extent in Berlin-Spandau.

Motorcycle Production Moves from Munich to Berlin.

When BMW’s managers in Munich started to consider the option to move motorcycle production from Munich in the mid-60s due to the significant increase in car production, Berlin with its well-trained workforce was an obvious choice. So in 1969 the Berlin Plant started production of the all-new BMW /5 Series, a completely new design and construction following a modular principle all the way from the suspension to the flat-twin power unit.

BMW Motorrad started out back then with three new models in the market: the 32-hp R 50/5 intended especially for the authorities such as the police, the R 60/5 very popular among touring riders with its 42-hp power unit, and, ultimately, the R 75/5 featuring a 50-hp flat-twin for sporting riding dynamics, a top speed of 175 km/h or 109 mph, and outstanding sales success in the international market.

With the motorcycle – which, in the 1960s, had been almost forced out of the market by the automobile – starting to re-gain popularity in the early 1970s, production figures at BMW Plant Berlin began to increase rapidly. In 1970 no less than 12,287 units came off the production line and by July 1973, when the /5 model series reached the end of production, a significant volume of 68,956 motorcycles had left the Berlin Plant, production increasing five-fold within just three years. Another highlight celebrated at the time was the completion of the 500,000th BMW motorcycle in the history of the Company.

The new /6 model series upgraded in numerous features and, as a particular highlight, the legendary BMW R 90 S, were presented on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of BMW Motorrad in autumn 1973. Displacing 898 cc, the flat-twin power unit featured in this most powerful BMW by far delivered maximum output of 67 hp, sufficient for a top speed of 200 km/h (124 mph) and very sporting riding dynamics, without missing out on the all-round and touring qualities so typical of a BMW.

Rapid Growth – from 0 to 100,000 in Six Years.

The 100,000th BMW built in Berlin-Spandau comes off the production line in January 1975, the famous BMW Boxer flat-twins reaching a new level of development just one year later marked by the introduction of the /7 model series. Apart from the R 60/7 and the R 75/7, BMW Motorrad also introduces the R 100/7, living up to the general trend to build larger motorcycles with a full litre engine capacity. And launching the R 100 RS, BMW also presents the world’s first production motorcycle with full fairing able to reach a top speed of 200 km/h or 124 mph with its 70-hp power unit while at the same time offering protection from wind and weather never seen before.

This new model series again achieved outstanding success in sales, making it imperative to enlarge the Plant in Berlin-Spandau. A new Assembly Hall was therefore built to expand the production facilities, construction work starting in a symbolic ceremony in the presence of Walter Scheel, at the time the President of the Federal Republic of Germany. The purpose of the DM 200-million investment is to build up to 60,000 BMW motorcycles a year in Berlin-Spandau from now on, creating new jobs in the process.

In 1978 BMW Motorrad again enlarges its model range through the introduction of the R 100 RT, a full-fairing motorcycle closely related to the R 100 RS, but focusing fully on the needs of the touring rider in terms of aerodynamics, ergonomics and comfort. At the same time the so-called “small Boxer Series” makes its entry into the market in the guise of the R 45 and the R 65, once again boosting both production and sales figures.

The BMW Motorcycle Plant in Berlin-Spandau also helps to use synergies within the BMW Group, taking over the production of brake discs for BMW cars in 1979 as another major activity.

BMW Motorcycles from Berlin-Spandau – Innovation in Technology and Superior Quality.

The 250,000th BMW motorcycle built in Berlin comes off the production line in 1980 – a special machine built for the palace motorcycle escort of King Hussein of Jordan. In the same year Rolf Witthöft brings home the European Offroad Championship on an 800-cc BMW, and shortly thereafter the R 80 G/S makes its debut with relatively modest 50 hp engine output. Combining innovative suspension technology weighing just 186 kg or 410 lb, the R 80 G/S offers outstanding qualities not only in offroad riding, but also in everyday use and as an ideal partner on motorcycle tours.

A particular innovation hitting the headlines at the time is the single swinging arm or BMW Monolever on the rear wheel. The biggest enduro motorcycle at its time in terms of engine size soon sets the foundation for a brand-new segment in the market, the large-capacity Grand Touring Enduro.

Yet a further milestone in the history of BMW Plant Berlin-Spandau is the introduction of the new BMW K Series with its water-cooled straight-four power unit fitted flat within the frame and featuring fuel injection for the first time. This new machine also marks the start of the new Assembly Line and the new Machining Shop, a DM 500-million investment serving to integrate modern industrial production facilities in the buildings protected by the government as national monuments.

Seeking for ongoing innovation in technology, BMW Motorrad subsequently launches the BMW K1 in 1988, a truly outstanding machine offering a whole range of highlights in technology. This is the first production motorcycle from BMW to feature four valves per cylinder, maximum output of 100 hp and sophisticated aerodynamics providing a top speed of 240 km/h or 149 mph. The most important feature, however, is the introduction of ABS anti-lock brakes for the first time ever on a motorcycle as a world-first achievement. To this day, in fact, BMW Motorrad remains the leader in riding safety also through the use of sophisticated ABS technology.

To an increasing extent BMW motorcycles not only have an excellent reputation worldwide in terms of quality, riding dynamics and comfort, but also make a substantial contribution to the image of the BMW brand. Many celebrities enjoy Sheer Riding Pleasure on a BMW, US actor Peter Fonda, for example, very well known to motorcyclists at the latest after his famous film Easy Rider, visiting the BMW Plant in Berlin on 23 February 1990 on the occasion of his 50th birthday.

Reaching Seven Digits in 1992 – the 1,000,000th BMW Comes off the Production Line.

Just one year later the 1,000,000th BMW motorcycle comes off the production line in Berlin-Spandau, with the production of BMW motorcycles in Berlin in the course of the last 22 years now exceeding the mark of 500,000 units.

The introduction of a fundamentally new design and construction principle following the concept and configuration typical of BMW marks the 70th birthday of the BMW Boxer in 1993, the 90-hp BMW R 1100 RS making its debut with a top speed of 215 km/h (133 mph) and full fairing to the benefit of the rider. The flat-twin power unit now comes with chain-driven crankshafts positioned half-way up the engine, four valves per cylinder, and fuel injection.

To this day this construction principle sets the foundation for all BMW Boxers.

The R 1100 RS also introduces outstanding innovations in terms of its suspension and running gear, becoming the world’s first production motorcycle to feature the Telelever, a ball-joint longitudinal arm fork separating the spring/damping functions, on the one hand, from the process of wheel guidance, on the other, and thus clearly standing out from the conventional telescopic fork. Indeed, this opens up a new dimension in terms of response and smooth handling, at the same time ensuring very well-balanced brake performance with automatic anti-dive.

The new Boxer series again proves highly successful, BMW Motorrad building and selling more than 50,000 motorcycles for the first time in 1995. A large number of these machines are BMW GS models consistently developed not only in technical terms since their introduction in 1980 and therefore acknowledged the world over as “the” grand touring enduro.

The last BMW with the “old” flat-twin engine comes off the production line in 1996, the R 80 GS Basic concluding the highly successful chapter of BMW’s two-valve Boxers after 27 years of production.

Always a Step Ahead – also in Terms of Quality of Work and Environmental Protection.

The innovative power and clear focus on the future of BMW Motorrad is not limited to the Company’s two-wheel products alone. On the contrary, quality of work and environmental protection are likewise indispensable parts of the Company’s philosophy. So it is no surprise that in 1997 BMW Plant Berlin is acknowledged as the first motorcycle plant in the world to fulfil the international standards for labour and environmental management, after having switched over the in-house supply of energy from oil to gas just one year before.

With the F 650 GS, BMW Motorrad introduces its third model series in 1999, supplementing the Boxer and the K Series. In all the Company invests DM 4.5 million in the expansion of the new Assembly Line for this single-cylinder built in Berlin-Spandau, with more models to follow in future.

Riding pleasure, quality and the image of BMW motorcycles remain appealing to celebrities everywhere, German actor Götz George, to this day a passionate BMW motorcycle rider, visiting BMW motorcycle production in his home city Berlin in the late ‘90s.

Focusing on the Future – Innovations and Investments.

With the success of BMW Motorrad and BMW Plant Berlin continuing unabated, the foundation stone for a new Production Hall, Building 7 completed just two years later, is laid in May 2001. In all BMW invests Euro 280 million in the new Assembly Hall, an automated Paintshop and new machining facilities from 1999 – 2003, thus making a clear commitment to the Berlin-Spandau Plant as the Group’s motorcycle production facility. A BMW R 1100 RT for the Red Cross comes off the production line in the same year as the 500,000th BMW with ABS anti-lock brakes.

In the years to come, not only motorcycles, but also production conditions continue to shape the destiny of BMW Plant Berlin. A new, environmentally friendly paintshop, for example, is opened in 2004, followed by the introduction of environmentally-friendly one-way and recyclable motorcycle packaging just one year later.

The first version of BMW Motorrad’s new, fourth model series – the F 800 GS – comes off the production line for the first time in 2006, featuring a water-cooled straight-two power unit (the parallel-twin) and setting the foundation for future models with this drive concept.

Also in 2006 BMW Plant Berlin for the first time builds more than 100,000 BMW motorcycles within one calendar year – and the introduction of hydro-clear water-based paint in 2008 again confirms the clear commitment of the BMW Motorcycle Plant to the cause of environmental protection.

The 500,000 BMW bearing the famous model designation “GS”, a BMW R 1200 GS, comes off the production line on 12 May 2009, with production of the new BMW S 1000 RR, the first supersports from BMW Motorrad, also starting this year.

More images may be found here.

R 1200 GS SE features at a glance:

• Striking Alpine White paint work
• Black cross spoke wheels
• Tinted screen
• Low, bi-colour seat
• Protective aluminium cylinder head covers
• Complementary panniers and fittings (until 30 September)
• Factory fitted Premium and Dynamic specification packages

This limited edition model comes in Alpine white, with a low bi-colour seat and a distinctive black front ‘beak’.

To stand out from the ever-popular standard model the SE version is supplied with black cross spoke wheels, protective aluminium head covers, and a tinted screen as standard.

As well as a striking look, the high standard specification of the R 1200 GS SE offers buyers great value for money. Not only does the SE take advantage of the free pannier promotion, on offer to purchasers of GS and GS Adventure models until 30 September, but also comes complete with both Dynamic and Premium specification packages saving customers £1250 over the standard model with these additions.

The factory fitted Dynamic package offers customers piece of mind with the best safety options available from BMW Motorrad. These are ABS, Automatic Stability Control (ASC) and Tyre Pressure Control.

For added rider comfort and fun, the Premium package offers BMW’s highly acclaimed and industry leading Enduro Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA2).

The unique Enduro ESA is easy to use enabling the rider to adjust the suspension of the bike to suit load or terrain, by simply pressing a button on the handlebar controls. Also available in the Premium pack are heated handle bar grips, an on-board computer, chrome exhaust pipe and LED indicators.

The R 1200 GS SE is built to order at a cost of just £11,250 OTR. BMW Motorrad dealers are taking orders for now with the first bikes being delivered to customers in July 09.

I have been using Baehr motorcycle communications systems for around five years now & they have proved to be far & away the best motorcycle intercom systems I have ever used.

Details of my current installation may be found here.

A lot of people ask me where to obtain these systems & I always refer them to my own supplier, Baehr AG in Pirmasens, Germany but often fellow bikers are put off by the somewhat high prices of this equipment.

Rarely I’ve seen Baehr products advertised on various internet sites but never have I seen such a bargain as advertised currently on eBay.

With a reserve price well below half RRP and a ‘buy-it-now’ price just over half RRP, including expert fitting if required, this must surely represent outstanding value for money.

Full details of this item may be found here.

In their first season in World Superbikes, BMW Motorrad Motorsport have yet to make a serious challenge on the championship leaders on their two entries, ridden by the highly experienced Troy Corser & Ruben Xaus.

The ‘bike has, however, enjoyed it’s first race success in the recent 1000km endurance event at the Hockenheimring in Germany.

The BMW S 1000 RR website may be found here.

Over eighty images of the BMW S 1000 RR may be found here.

Download PDF brochure for BMW S 1000 RR here.

I just happened to be on hand with my camera as ‘Scottish Viking’ approached Rosyth….!

More images may be found here.

However that’s exactly what happened over the last three days as I undertook my Great Northern Loop of Scotland.

Most of the roads travelled I’ve ridden before, usually as part of another trip, but never have I attempted this particular route all in one trip, albeit spread over three days.

Day One::Edinburgh to Ardmair 371 miles

Day Two::Ardmair to Dunnet 159 miles

Day Three::Dunnet to Edinburgh 367 miles

What a fabulous 900 mile route around the northern extremities of mainland Scotland!

Not a bad introduction to camping either, with lots of lessons learned. Although I know that Gina has no interest in camping, I’m quite certain this won’t be the last time a carry a tent on the ‘bike!

• 199 images may be found here.

You’ll never catch me camping with my motorcycle….never, never, NOT EVER….!

In 34 years of motorcycling adventures I have never been camping with the ‘bike….others have often tried to persuade me, & failed….

Basically I couldn’t convince myself that these two apparently disparate leisure activities were actually mutually compatible….but that’s certainly what I’ve been led to believe by those with much more experience of these matters than myself.

The sum total of my camping experience consists of half a dozen school camps in the late sixties, several Scout camps during my time with the Sea Scouts (yes we camped as well as sailed!), and a couple of Outward Bound  survival type camps in Wales & Cornwall in my mid-teens.

Okay, so I’m not a complete stranger to the concept but a little research over the winter revealed gaping holes in my knowledge of equipment etc so I decided to approach this whole idea as a newcomer.

The main criteria were to acquire all that I need with minimal expense and that it all fits within the hard luggage on my R1200RT.

There is no question of Gina joining me in this ‘folly’ (her words, not mine) so I have all three cases at my disposal.

The tent, sleeping bag and thermal mat fit comfortably in the top-case along with my single stainless steel cook pot (which contains the stove burner & tea-towel) as well as a decent chunk of wood to stand the bike on soft ground/grass, if needed.

One pannier contains camping gas, mallet, food/water containers, eating/drinking utensils, personal hygene items, waterproof  clothing and that most important of camping essentials….a decent Single Malt Scotch Whisky!

The other pannier contains the usual overnight clothing I might take for a few days away plus some thermals just in case it gets cold at night.

I hope I’ve thought of everything….but feel sure that I’ve forgotten something essential!

With the bike loaded & ready to go, tomorrow I’ll leave early & head for the hills…. on a three day, two night shakedown trip to evaluate this whole idea & determine whether the ‘mid-life crisis’ camping idea is to be pursued.

]]> http://dutchblog.net/?feed=rss2&p=116 0 http://dutchblog.net/?p=114 http://dutchblog.net/?p=114#comments Mon, 20 Apr 2009 17:17:06 +0000 Dutchman http://www.dutchman.org.uk/dutchblog/?p=114 It’s been over 8 months since Gina rode pillion & today’s warm sunny Scottish weather made the perfect excuse for a nice 178 mile ride down through the Scottish Borders, into Northumberland and then back along the eastern Scottish coast.

Leaving Edinburgh behind us before 10:00 we headed south on the A68 & made good time to Jedburgh where we stopped for fuel & coffee.

Temperatures have already exceeded 20c by now and we enjoy the journey further south into England on almost deserted roads before turning east just past Otterburn, on the B6341.

Cloudless blue skies & sensational scenery in the Northumberland National Park keep us company as we pass through Rothbury & Wooler on our way to Eyemouth for a rather late lunch at the excellent Mackay’s chippy.

The promise of ice cold beers on the patio at home prompted our direct return to Edinburgh partly on the Berwickshire Coastal Route (A1107) and then the A1 for the last few miles.

What a great way to spend a warm sunny day!

During this time I’ve covered over 36000 miles during which time these monitors have proved extremely effective, trouble free & reliable.

Last week I started getting a broken signal to my right ear & subsequently noticed that the cord had become fractured & frayed just as it entered the silcone monitor moulding itself.

Currently the technicians at Ultimate Ear are examining my monitors before deciding whether they are repairable or not. Please see update below.

I made it quite clear that I was simply treating this as a ‘fair wear & tear’ issue rather than a complaint about a manufacturing or materials defect.

I should say at this point that Ultimate Ear have been extremely prompt & efficient at dealing with this issue despite beinq very busy at this time of the year so I’ll await their judgement with interest before deciding on a replacement.

Meanwhile I’m left with the considerable problem of delivering audio to my ears whilst riding the ‘bike.

As I have no speakers built into my helmet I needed to find a temporary, comfortable, effective and low cost alternative to the custom moulded monitors.

I’ve tried many different generic ear buds, earphones & monitors in the past, none of which have really suited my requirements but extensive research of current products  revealed a potentially viable solution in the form of JVC HA-FX66 in-ear canal headphones.

Supplied with three different sizes of silicone rubber ear pieces & one set of ‘memory foam’ ear pieces it didn’t take long to get them to fit snugly & comfortably in my ear canals.

Yesterday I tried them on the bike for the first time & was extremely surprised at the high quality of both speech & stereo music reproduction, especially bass & treble response.

These headphones really are tiny and the soft silicone ‘Air Cushion’ does a fair job of eliminating background noise, certainly up to about 70mph, after which wind/road/engine noise takes over, despite the automatic noise sensitive volume controls on my Baehr communications system.

I’m not sure I could live with these JVC headphones long-term as they are a compromise over the custom moulded monitors but at  £16.00 they are about a tenth of the cost and certainly a viable temporary substitute.

UPDATE: Ultimate Ear decided that my monitors were repairable & for £45.00 they replaced the entire cable & plug using much a higher standard of parts than those used originally. They are now fit for another few years use. Great service from Ultimate Ear!

I’m also replacing both the original tyres, the Bridgestone Battlax BT-020 which have long been my touring tyres of choice. At 6128 miles the rear tyre is 100% worn, with the wear indicator bars clearly exposed and the centre slightly squared off. The front tyre is about 85% worn so they will be replaced as a pair.

The BT-020 has now been superceded by the Battlax BT-021 which promises much in terms of extra grip & durability.

It will be interesting to see if these new tyres perform to Bridgestone’s claims & my expectations so I’ll be reporting back in due course.

Five pairs of BMW motorcycle gloves are now being offered for sale on eBay so simply click on the image that interests you below to be taken to the appropriate eBay listing.

BMW Motorrad GS 2 Glove

SOLD!

• Size:9-9.5
• Colour:Black, grey & blue
• Fabric:Leather & textile
• Condition:Used, clean & undamaged

____________________________________________________________________

BMW Motorrad Lightweight Rain Glove

SOLD!

• Size:9-9.5
• Colour:Black
• Fabric:Leather & textile. Goretex membrane
• Condition:Used, clean & with slight damage to right forefinger (Goretex membrane intact)

____________________________________________________________________

BMW Motorrad Summer Rain Glove Mk 1

SOLD!

• Size:9-9.5
• Colour:Black
• Fabric:Leather & textile. Goretex membrane
• Condition:Never worn, clean & undamaged

____________________________________________________________________

BMW Motorrad Comfort Winter Glove

SOLD!

• Size:9-9.5
• Colour:Black
• Fabric:Leather & textile. Waterproof membrane
• Condition:Never worn, clean & undamaged

____________________________________________________________________

BMW Motorrad Goretex Winter Glove

SOLD!

• Size:9-9.5
• Colour:Black
• Fabric:Leather & textile. Goretex membrane
• Condition:Rarely worn, clean & undamaged

____________________________________________________________________

I didn’t really have a plan other than to head north, so a little before 0730 I headed over the Forth Bridge, intending to make all speed to Inverness before deciding where to go next.

A couple of hours later I stopped for what is arguably the best breakfast in Scotland at Dalwhinnie just as the sun started to warm up & illuminate the wonderful scenery.

Over breakfast I studied the map & decided on a great loop north & west from Inverness, firstly on the A835 towards Inverness and then the A832 & A890 through Achnasheen & Glen Carron which always provides some great photo opportunities.

Motorcycling in this part of Scotland is great mid-week, especially before the holiday season begins, as there is much less traffic to impede progress.

I continued on to Broadford on the isle of Skye to refuel before heading to Armadale to catch the 1425 CalMac ferry back to Mallaig & the wonderful Road to the Isles to Fort William.

Leaving Fort William behind me I follow the ever changing A82 through Glen Coe, over Rannoch Moor and past Tyndrum & Crianlarich and then on Lochearnhead on the A85 before it turns into the A84 for the onward journey through Callander & Doune.

I then joined the M9 for the last quick leg east to Edinburgh & home.

A total of 443 miles yesterday and at least as many smiles!

Images from yesterday may be found here.

MapSource Tracklog may be found here.

This sad state of affairs was finally rectified  today with my first ride out of the year, a decent 147 mile route through the Scottish Borders, east coast of Scotland & East Lothian.

Starting with a brief stop at Motorrad Central in Dalkeith for coffee, I continued south along the A68 & A697 to Coldstream on the border with England before heading northeast on the A698 to join the A1 at Berwick upon Tweed.

My late breakfast bacon roll was taken in the well known lay-by at the Scottish border.

Afterwards I headed north on the A1 a short distance before taking the coast road via Eyemouth, Dunbar, North Berwick & Gullane before returning to the Scottish Museum of Flight at East Fortune for a few photo’s.

The weather was perfect, the bike performed faultlessly & it really was great to be out on two wheels again.

Today’s images including tracklog may be found here or on my SmugMug pages.

Now….where shall I go tomorrow….?

This has now been corrected and I’ve compiled an automatic slideshow on the index page of my website, highlighting 34 Years of Motorcycling Adventures through around 1500 of the tens of thousands of images that I’ve captured either on film or digitally over the years.

Although a work in progress, with new images being added daily, my entire collection will eventually find it’s way here.

Certainly seems to be a ‘little different’ from the average ‘bike trip to Africa….

Not at all sure I’ve got the right ‘bike for this but then again I can’t think of anything I’d rather be doing next June….!

Now….I wonder if there are any places left….?