The 2015 MCN London Motorcycle Show (13th-15th February) will be showcasing a world exclusive collection of motorcycles raced by nine-time MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi. This incredible collection will feature many of Rossi’s most famous machines including his Aprilia, Honda, Yamaha and Ducati race bikes (full list at base of communication).
In addition to this unique once-in-a-lifetime display there will be an incredible array of the new 2015 motorcycles from Aprilia, BMW, Ducati, Kawasaki, KTM, Moto Guzzi, Suzuki, Triumph, Piaggio and Yamaha.
2015 looks set to be one of the most exciting years in motorcycling, with an unbelievable line-up of new models coming from the world’s leading manufacturers – and the Carole Nash MCN London Motorcycle Show will allow fans to get up close and personal with them all. Visitors over the three days will get to see new machines such as the BMW R1200R, Ducati Scrambler, Kawasaki H2, KTM 1290 Super Adventure, Suzuki GSX-S1000, Triumph Street Triple RX and the eagerly anticipated, all-new Yamaha YZF-R1.
Alongside the latest models and world exclusive Valentino Rossi collection, the MCN London Motorcycle Show will also play host to a Norton tribute to the golden era of the rotary race bikes and the people that built and raced them. From the prototype RC588 to Steve Hislop’s TT winning NRS588, the rotary Nortons were the icons of a fabulous era in British motorcycle racing history, with machines started up on the Show stage! TV’s James May will be lending us his classic bike collection and this time it will joined by bikes from his Top Gear colleague Richard Hammond. The free live action show sponsored by Michelin will keep the entire family entertained.
Details of Rossi bikes to be displayed:
1997 AGV Aprilia RS125R- 125cc
1999 Aprilia RS250 Mugello special- ‘Valenti-Peace and Love’- 250cc
2002 Repsol Honda RC211V- 990cc
2004 Go! Yamaha YZR-M1- 990cc
2005 Yamaha YZR-M1- 990cc Laguna ‘Speed Block’ special
2008 Fiat Yamaha YZR-M1- 800cc
2009 Fiat Yamaha YZR-M1-800cc Estoril ‘Fiat Punto’ special
2011 Factory Ducati Desmosedici- 800cc
Tickets for the action-packed three-day event are now on sale, making this the ideal Xmas gift for any bike enthusiast. MCN have also just announced a brand new event, the MCN Festival of Motorcycling will be held on May 16-17th at the East of England Showground. An advance day ticket bundle of just £29.50 will provide entrance to both events.
Priced just £16 with free bike parking (and free for children under 15) you can check out the Carole Nash MCN London motorcycle show and book tickets via www.mcnmotorcycleshow.com or call 0844 5816 900
The Piaggio Group, via its Aprilia brand, has announced a collaboration with Skully, the American company pioneering the development of helmets with Heads-up Display technology (HUD). This is in order to develop new and highly sophisticated forms of rider-vehicle interaction for V4-MP, the Aprilia RSV4 and Tuono 1100-specific iteration of PMP (Piaggio Multimedia Platform), which is already available for several models in the Group’s motorcycle and scooter brands.
These combined technologies will mean the multitude of information available through the PMP system will be visible on the Skully helmet visor, in addition to the features already offered by the helmet itself. The system allows the rider to travel in improved safety, having all kinds of useful information available without having to take his or her hands off the handlebar.
The helmet replaces the vehicle instrument cluster, providing an exceptional amount of clear information that can be matched and recalled with voice command, shown on a transparent displayed positioned on an area of the visor that does not interfere with visibility. The wide angle rear camera constitutes a fundamental supplement to the bike’s original mirrors, providing a wide view and clear images without distracting the rider’s focus on the road, while the Piaggio multimedia platform, connected to the helmet via Bluetooth, takes care of providing all the necessary travel and vehicle indications.
Further Information about Piaggio Multimedia Platform
Piaggio Multimedia Platform connects your smartphone to your vehicle
In 2012 the Piaggio Group was the first manufacturer in the world to create a system which allowed the vehicle to be connected to a smartphone (and consequently to the web), thereby transforming it into an additional tool capable of providing an exceptional amount of added information compared to what is already provided by the factory instrumentation. The link between the vehicle and the internet is called PMP (Piaggio Multimedia Platform), which is already available for several models in the Group’s motorcycle and scooter brand ranges, making travel safer and more convenient. This is a window to the future which lays the foundation for a new way of looking at communication on two wheels. Once the free app has been downloaded, the Bluetooth pairing of the smartphone to the vehicle allows the various nearest authorised service centre, automatically setting navigation to reach it. PMP stores all the travel information and allows it to be studied in depth at a later time on your computer and it also contains the operating and service manual options to be viewed and easily modified to the rider’s preference: speedometer, rev counter, but also instantaneous engine power and torque, lean angle, longitudinal acceleration, instant and average fuel consumption, average speed and battery voltage are just some of the features that can be accessed. PMP increases rider and passenger safety: the tyre status monitoring feature uses the vehicle and smartphone sensors in synergy to monitor tyre wear and inflation, while the general analysis feature allows the vehicle status to be monitored, indicating the most appropriate action to take in the event of a fault, as well as the for your vehicle.
Further Information about Skully
Founded in 2013 in California’s Silicon Valley, Skully recently introduced the AR-1, the first motorbike helmet fitted with the highly advanced heads-up display (HUD) technology, until now available exclusively to military pilots. The information from the 180° rear view camera, the navigator and the weather information service is projected directly onto the helmet visor, providing clear enormous advantages in terms of safety and riding freedom
Britain’s most-successful sportscar driver of the modern era and host of last weekend’s prestigious FIA Prize-Giving Ceremony, three-time 24 Hours of Le Mans winner Allan McNish has joined the Autosport International 2015 guest list.
Europe’s biggest motorsport show is celebrating its 25th anniversary at Birmingham’s NEC on 8-11 January*, and McNish has featured at motorsport’s highest levels throughout its history.
A winner in junior classes such as Formula 3 and Formula 3000, and a Formula 1 test driver for McLaren at 19 years of age, McNish was recruited by Porsche for its sportscar programme and quickly became one of the world’s best, winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1998.
Following a season in Formula 1 with Toyota in 2002, McNish returned to endurance racing with Audi. He enjoyed further Le Mans glory in 2008 and 2013, along with the 2013 FIA World Endurance Championship to go with four Sebring 12 Hour and Petit Le Mans victories and three American Le Mans Series crowns.
Remaining an Audi ambassador, he stepped out of the cockpit at the end of 2013 and has become a popular part of the BBC’s F1 broadcast team.
He’ll be joined at Autosport International by fellow Scots in BBC colleague and 13-time Grand Prix winner David Coulthard and 2012 British Touring Car Champion Gordon Shedden. New FIA World Rallycross Champion Petter Solberg and BTCC champs Colin Turkington, Matt Neal and Andrew Jordan will also be present, with more stars to be announced.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my visits to Autosport International over the years, it is a great show and I really think it has something for every motorsport fan. I’m excited about attending January’s 25th anniversary celebrations,” McNish said.
McNish will also present the Motorsport Safety Fund’s annual Watkins Lecture on safety issues within the sport. The respected event is named in honour of the late Professor Sid Watkins, who is credited with revolutionising Formula 1 safety.
“Allan is always warmly-welcomed at Autosport International, as a great ambassador of British motorsport and one of its most popular figures,” said Ian France, Autosport International Show Director.
“His racing record speaks for itself, and Allan has taken that experience into the media, providing insightful and entertaining analysis. We’re looking forward to hearing his expert take on the 2014 Formula 1 and FIA World Endurance Championship seasons at the NEC in January.”
Motorsport stars such as McNish, Coulthard and Solberg will be accompanied at Autosport International by exclusive displays spanning every aspect of motorsport, exhilarating performances in the Live Action Arena and motoring’s Performance Car Show in association with Autocar and PistonHeads.com.
Tickets to Autosport International are available from £32 for adults, with children’s tickets priced from £21 and children under five years admitted for free. For tickets, visit www.autosportinternational.com
Paying nostalgic homage to its success at the 1956 motorcycle land speed record attempt, Triumph has introduced a brand new riding jacket into its Winter 2014 range.
Exclusively available from authorised dealers across the UK, the stylish and functional jacket takes inspiration from Johnny Allen’s historic ride on the Triumph-powered ‘Texas Ceegar’ motorcycle, taking bikers back in time to the Utah Bonneville Salt Flats, when the UK last held the world speed record.
Finished in deep navy with a subtle chequered design, the jacket pairs style and safety in perfect harmony. Alongside embossed embroidery to celebrate the historic 214.40MPH record, Bristex outer fabric and a breathable Tritrex z-liner are used to guarantee 100% water and wind-proofing with optimum breathability and comfort.
High-strength removable Knox elbow and shoulder guards offer the upmost protection, while a quilted liner and zip opening ventilation panels provide maximum comfort and versatility. A connection zipper allows the jacket to be seamlessly paired with any of Triumph’s leather or fabric riding trousers, making the record-breaking jacket the perfect addition to any rider’s winter wardrobe.
With an RRP of £255, the jacket is available immediately from Triumph’s authorised national dealer network. To find your nearest dealer or to see the complete Autumn 2014 clothing collection online, please visit: www.triumphmotorcycles.co.uk
Goodwood is delighted to announce that the dates for both the Festival of Speed and Revival meeting in 2015 have now been confirmed.
The Festival of Speed, which celebrates the very best from the past and present of motoring and motor sport, will be held on 25-28 June, 2015. As usual, the event will open with the Moving Motor Show on Thursday, 25 June.
Alongside the overall theme of ‘Fast and Fearless: Racing on the Edge’, the Festival of Speed will also celebrate the 90th anniversary of the motor racing’s inaugural World Championship, won by Alfa Romeo, and mark 50 years since Honda’s maiden grand prix victory as the Japanese manufacturer returns to Formula 1 with McLaren in 2015.
The event will also pay tribute to the 60th anniversary of two sensational victories; Sir Stirling Moss and Denis Jenkinson’s triumph on the 1955 Mille Miglia and the first post-war grand prix win for an all-British line-up; Tony Brooks in a Connaught at Syracuse.
Sports car legend Derek Bell will be honoured as 2015 marks the 40th anniversary of the first of his five Le Mans 24 Hours wins, which came behind the wheel of a Mirage-Ford.
The Goodwood Revival, firmly established as the world’s largest and most popular motor racing and vintage culture event, will take place on September 11-13, ensuring neither event will clash with the Formula 1 World Championship calendar.
The Revival will pay tribute to the legendary driver, engineer and racing car constructor, Bruce McLaren, with a special parade of vehicles associated with his career.
Tickets and hospitality packages for both events are on general sale, as are a limited number of tickets for the 73rd Members’ Meeting, which will be held on 21-22 March 2015. Information is available from www.goodwood.com or on 01243 755055
The menacing Lamborghini Huracán, award-winning Ferrari 458 Speciale and ground-breaking BMW i8 will headline the supercars on display during the Performance Car Show next month, as the best of the motoring world heads to Birmingham.
Held alongside Europe’s biggest motorsport show, Autosport International, the Performance Car Show in association with Autocar and PistonHeads.com features sensational collections of the latest high-octane favourites at Birmingham’s NEC on 8-11 January*.
Bringing a combined 1,800hp to the popular Autocar Supercar Display, the Lamborghini, Ferrari and BMW will be accompanied by an emerging force, Mexico’s track-focused Vühl 05.
Other masterpieces will be hosted by What Car? and PistonHeads.com, while Autocar will also demonstrate a collection of its Britain’s Best Handling Cars in the 5,000-seat Live Action Arena. Motoring enthusiasts can also witness launches, meet car clubs and view the latest accessories at the event, which was attended by 82,000 people in 2014.
Unveiled earlier this year and picking up where the Gallardo left off, the stunning Lamborghini Huracán is aptly named with the Spanish word for ‘hurricane’. A 5.2-litre V10 produces 610hp, with the package capable of accelerating from 0-62mph in 3.2 seconds and reaching a top speed of 202mph.
In what the Italian manufacturer describes as the new benchmark in luxury super sports cars, the four-wheel-drive Huracán features a lightweight, hybrid chassis made from carbon fibre and aluminium and ceramic brakes.
The mid-engined Ferrari 458 Speciale was named in October as the winner of Autocar’s prestigious Britain’s Best Driver’s Car for 2014. With 605hp, it’s the most powerful naturally-aspirated V8 ever produced by Ferrari, weighs just 1,290kg and is armed with active aerodynamics.
Sitting alongside the V10 and V8 stallions, the BMW i8 represents the future of motoring, as a revolutionary yet accessible hybrid supercar. A three-cylinder turbo engine combines with an electric motor to produce 357bhp and cover 0-62mph in 4.4 seconds, and offering economy of up to 134.5mpg.
Mexican manufacturer Vühl has made waves with its very first model, the road-legal and lightweight 05 supercar. Engineered for racetrack performance, the exhilarating Vühl 05 pairs an aluminium monocoque with a 2.0-litre Ford Ecoboost engine capable of sprinting from 0-62mph in 3.7 seconds.
“It goes without saying that Lamborghini and Ferrari are always two of the first names mentioned in conversations about supercars, so we’re excited to host the Huracán and 458 Speciale in the Autocar Supercar Display, along with the BMW i8 and Vühl 05,” said Ian France, Performance Car Show Director.
“We’re looking forward to displaying these four amazing cars and a diverse group of other supercars and high-performance favourites at the Performance Car Show in January.”
Under the same roof, Autosport International will host motorsport stars such as 13-time Grand Prix winner David Coulthard, rally hero Petter Solberg, Le Mans legend Allan McNish and British Touring Car Champions Colin Turkington, Matt Neal, Andrew Jordan and Gordon Shedden, and displays spanning karting to Formula 1.
Tickets for the Performance Car Show in association with Autocar and PistonHeads.com are available from £32 for adults, with children’s tickets priced from £21 and children under five years admitted for free. For tickets, visit www.performancecarshow.com.
In 2013, Yamaha announced a new collaboration with Dutch oversized watch manufacturer, TW Steel. 12 months on and hot on the heels of the success of the Yamaha Factory Racing inspired Pilot and Tech watches, Yamaha is very pleased announce its continued celebration of the shared synergies of passion, power and performance, as it introduces a dynamic new six-piece TW Steel Yamaha Racing collection and two-piece VR46 collection for 2015.
Naturally sporty in their appearance, the new designs are once again available in two different sizes – 40mm and 45mm. The new Yamaha Racing wrist watch offers features that are usually reserved for much more expensive timepieces, but the ‘By TW Steel’ moniker on each watch is representative of the DNA of these exciting and unquestionably affordable models.
With each design based around a genuine carbon case, the new watches incorporate an appealing carbon fibre design dial featuring the Yamaha Factory Racing or VR46 logo. Other key highlights for the new models include:
· Steel case back featuring the brand logo
· Gunmetal plated steel crown
· Reinforced mineral crystal glass face
· Miyota 2115 3-hand movement
· Water resistant to 10 ATM
· Dial encompassing a 24-hour indicator
· Date display.
· Silicon strap available in a variety of colours featuring a gunmetal plated steel clasp*
*Except one VR46 model which features a nylon woven strap
Priced at just £99.00 inc. VAT each, the new watches are available now from your nearest Authorised Yamaha dealer. The new Yamaha Racing watches By TW Steel will appeal to all fans of the Yamaha team and GP legend, Valentino Rossi and with Christmas just around the corner, they’ll make the perfect gift for any Yamaha fan in your family!
For full details on the Yamaha TW Steel watches or to find out where your nearest Authorised Yamaha dealer is located, please visit www.yamaha-motor.co.uk/accessories.
The system consists of two parts: a receiver, which is attached to the heated garment, and a transmitter, which can be mounted on the handlebars or suitable flat surface (e.g. fairing panel). They communicate wirelessly, so there’s no routing of cables or fiddly fixings.
Both the transmitter and receiver can be used to control the temperature of the chosen garment. Each one features simple, one-button operation and LED confirmation, so the rider can set their comfort level quickly and easily, while staying focussed on the road ahead. Offering three heat levels, riders can adjust the setting to suit the conditions.
The Remote Heat Controller costs £59.99 (including VAT) and is suitable for use with all KEiS garments (except those with an existing integral controller). It is weather resistant and comes with built-in current overload protection.
For further info and details of the complete KEiS range of heated clothing and accessories, call 01256 704909 or visit: www.keisapparel.co.uk
Notes: KEiS has enjoyed an average annual growth of 30% since 2011 and is now the UK’s best-selling brand of heated clothing
Yamaha is pleased to announce that the 2015 Yamaha Racing R&D (YRRD) tuning parts for YZ125 2-stroke, YZ250F and YZ450F models are now available to order through Authorised Yamaha off-road competition dealers for a very limited period!
YRRD is the specialist supplier of official racing parts for Yamaha motocross machinery, formed in the early 1990s when Yamaha Motor Europe (YME) joined forces with former World Motocross Champion Michele Rinaldi. In the intense heat of World Championship competition, YRRD kit parts have been playing a crucial role in Yamaha’s many motocross successes over the years.
The YZ125 remains one of the top models in its class and for 2015, YRRD have improved the performance of its tuning kit with a new type cylinder head and revised mapping in the CDI unit. However, the big changes come for the championship winning YZ250F, with its reverse cylinder engine, fuel injected engine. The 2015 tuning kit benefits directly from factory team developments during the 2014 MX2 World championship, with a new uprated piston, cylinder head, valve springs, revised ECU settings and for 2015, the addition of an uprated exhaust camshaft. The new YZ250F YRRD kit offers a significant power increase over an already powerful production bike, making it a valuable investment to give you the competitive edge on track.
The YZ450F remains one of the most powerful 450cc competition bikes in its class and once again YRRD have chosen to focus on controllability by offering a hydraulic clutch kit to improve the clutch function, increase clutch plate durability, reduce rider fatigue and automatically adjust the clutch free play (avoiding the need for the rider to adjust manually).
Please note: Due to the limited and manual production processes involved in manufacturing YRRD kit parts, all orders must be placed with your local dealer by no later than Wednesday 10th December. Delivery of ordered parts will be February 2015.
For full technical details on the new YRRD kit parts and pricing, please contact your nearest Authorised Yamaha off-road competition dealer. To find out where your nearest Authorised Yamaha off-road competition dealer is located, please visit www.yamaha-motor.co.uk.
The nine-day biking spectacular that was Motorcycle Live 2014 drew to a close on Sunday after thousands of bike fans flocked though the doors to SEE all the new 2015 models for the first time, LEARN to ride a bike, WATCH amazing live action, RIDE on and off road, MEET racing stars and celebrities and ENJOY the UK’s best day out in motorcycling.
We would like to thank every single person that attended the show and made it such a brilliant nine days – we hope you enjoyed it as much as we did! If you did attend, you may receive an email asking you to complete a short survey about your experience. We would really appreciate your feedback so that we can make Motorcycle Live even better next year.
Speaking of next year, Motorcycle Live 2015 will take place from 21-29 November 2015 – add it to your diary now and we hope to see you there!
Designed for a fully optimized women’s fit the Stella Bogota Jacket incorporates Alpinestars exclusive DRYSTAR® membrane for 100% waterproofing. With added CE-certified protection in strategic areas and strategically positioned air vents these pants can adapt to all weather conditions and are fully compatible with the Stella Bogota DRYSTAR® Jacket and other Alpinestars jackets.
Perfectly designed and optimized for women touring riders, the Stella Bogota Jacket is lightweight and extremely comfortable, incorporating Alpinestars exclusive DRYSTAR® 100% waterproof membrane to provide superb protection against the elements. Highly configurable with innovative airflow systems this jacket also incorporates class-leading CE-certified protectors on the knee and elbows.
Multi-material construction with a highly abrasion and tear resistant poly-fabric main shell and multi-panel mesh
Rip-stop reinforcement in key impact areas on the shoulders and arms for durability and abrasion resistance.
Removable and interchangeable waterproof and breathable DRYSTAR® full liner with taped seams to ensure long term water-repelling
Long thermal liner ensures jacket versatility and comfort in cold and hot conditions and can be fully removed with zipper connection and integrated stretch comfort
Removable CE-certified Bio-Armor shoulder and elbow protection for superb impact
Chest and back pad compartments with PE padding (Alpinestars Bionic chest pads and Back Armor available as accessory upgrade).
Anatomical, pre-curved sleeve design incorporate Velcro® volume control adjustment straps for improved comfort, fine-tuning adjustment of garment and to help keep elbow protections in
Jet Ventilation System (JVS): strategically positioned zippered air intakes on torso with rear air exhaust vent on upper back for cooling performance on long
Climate Control System (CCS) on sleeves incorporates mesh gussets and zipper closures for improved levels of ventilation
Four external front pockets for convenient storage, including two waterproof pockets and two large cargo pockets, plus external large rear utility Internal pockets are waterproof and zippered for peace-of-mind closure.
Collar construction incorporates comfort lining and features Velcro® closure and strap garage to allow collar to be securely kept in place while
Fine-tuned fit afforded by D-ring waist adjustment for a secure, personalized fit while
Extended profile lower back for riding comfort for extra protection in the lumbar
Reflective detailing on front and back improves rider visibility.
Two internal waist connection zippers (on main shell and on DRYSTAR membrane) for attachment to Alpinestars riding pants.
Completely redesigned for 2015, the Knox Cold Killers Ladies Sport Top features new fabrics both inside and out, making it even more versatile for women with an active lifestyle who need to eliminate wind chill.
Made from Softshell, a three-layer laminate, the Ladies Sport Top has a soft and plush fur-like Velboa lining, while the outer layer is a soft and stretchy herringbone weave material for all-round flexibility and comfort. Sandwiched between the two is a new high performance 10k/10k membrane that sits in the middle, providing a barrier against the wind and cold.
The 10k/10k membrane is also water-repellent and breathable. Combined with the Sport Top’s 3D fleece back section, it helps prevent overheating during activities.
Light, thin and with a tailored fit, the Sport Top sits neatly under outerwear – for motorcycling, hiking, running or cycling – without affecting freedom of movement. A full length YKK zipper and fingerless hand-warmers top off the impressive specification and the Sport Top is fully machine washable and quick-drying, so it is easy to care for.
The Knox Cold Killers Ladies Sport Top is available in sizes XS-XL (UK 8-18) at £59.99 including VAT. Matching trousers, socks, gloves, neckwarmers and balaclavas are also available.
For more information contact Knox: +44 1900 825825 or visit www.planet-knox.com
One of Britain’s most-successful Formula 1 drivers of the generation, 13-time race winner David Coulthard has joined the guest list for the 25th anniversary edition of Autosport International. Europe’s biggest motorsport show was first held in 1991, the year ‘DC’ won the prestigious Formula 3 Macau Grand Prix on his way to F1.
The Scot has enjoyed a decorated 247-race F1 career, succeeding the late Ayrton Senna at Williams, before driving for McLaren and retiring behind the wheel of the Red Bull RB4 in 2008. He has since competed in Germany’s DTM (Touring Car Championship), and moved seamlessly into the media as part of the BBC’s F1 broadcast team.
Taking place at Birmingham’s NEC, Coulthard will appear during the event’s two public days, 10-11 January, dissecting the mammoth 2014 season and looking ahead to the new year.
“One of the fantastic things about motorsport is the way it brings passionate fans together and Autosport International is a big part of that,” Coulthard said.
“I’ve got very fond memories of 1991, when I moved into Formula 3 and won Macau, and I’ve enjoyed attending the show over the years at different stages of my career. There’ll be lots to talk about from Formula 1, particularly following this incredible title fight between Lewis and Nico, and I’m looking forward to getting back to the NEC in January.”
Coulthard will be joined by the likes of 2014 FIA World Rallycross and 2003 World Rally Champion Petter Solberg and British Touring Car Championship aces Andrew Jordan, Gordon Shedden and Matt Neal.
“Throughout Autosport International’s history, David Coulthard has been at the forefront of world motorsport, including winning at the very highest level, Formula 1,” said Ian France, Autosport International Show Director.
“As one of the UK’s most popular drivers we’re delighted David will be joining us to celebrate the show’s 25th anniversary.”
The stars will be accompanied by exclusive displays spanning Formula 1 to karting, the 5,000-seat Live Action Arena, a host of interactive activities and supercars in the Performance Car Show, in association with Autocar and PistonHeads.com.
Tickets to Autosport International are available from £32 for adults, with children’s tickets priced from £21 and children under five years admitted for free. For tickets, visit www.autosportinternational.com
An ideal Christmas gift for BMW fans, the limited edition Wunderlich Boxer Watch II celebrates the 16-year history of the latest Boxer twins.
Designed to mimic the R series’ instruments, the watch features a double movement and off-set faces – one for hours/minutes and one for seconds – set into a solid stainless steel casing, behind an optically clear, polished crystal.
Each watch is individually numbered, with a unique serial number engraved in the polished stainless back and is supplied with a certificate of authenticity. A subtle Wunderlich ‘W’ logo is embossed on the face.
The watch is waterproof (up to 50 metres) and is designed with a slim profile and folding buckle fixing, so it can be worn comfortably under riding jackets.
The stainless steel wristband is fully adjustable using a specially designed tool, which comes with the watch. Both are presented in a plated aluminium display/storage box.
For a limited time the Boxer Watch II is available from Wunderlich’s exclusive UK distributor Nippy Normans, for a reduced price of £118* including VAT.
Visit www.nippynormans.com for details of this and thousands of other BMW accessories.
*normally £129.99
Wunderlich have specialised in individually-tailored BMW motorcycle accessories for almost 30 years. The majority of Wunderlich’s 3000 products are designed and made in-house, using the latest 3-D prototyping printers, laser scanning for precision and accuracy, and manufactured on their own CNC milling machines
Peugeot will display the fourth generation of the iconic Speedfight scooter for the first time in the UK at Motorcycle Live.
More than half a million Speedfight scooters have been built since its launch in 1997 and the new Speedfight 4 gets a new look and a new engine.
Change is most obvious from the front – twin optical 35W headlights, micro bulb crystal turn indicators, restyled grille and instrument console. The dashboard also gets a makeover, with an on-board digital multifunction computer and USB socket for smartphone connectivity.
There are two engine choices. The standard model has an air-cooled 50cc 2-stroke power plant, with new Dell’Orto carburettor, producing 3.8 horsepower (2.8 kW) when de-restricted and a 4.8 horsepower (3.6 kW) liquid cooled version.
Braking is beefed up with a shuricane Ø 215 mm front disc with radial calliper and black painted piston.
There are three colour options for the standard model – blue France, flat red and fluo apple green – and a further three special edition models, the Darkside in mad black, Iceblade in icy white and Pure, also in icy white. The special editions all get the liquid cooled engine and Ø 190 mm shuricane rear disc brake as standard.
The new Speedfight 4 is expected to arrive in UK showrooms in summer 2015 and prices will be announced closer to the time. See it at Motorcycle Live, 22-30 November 2014 at the NEC Birmingham, Stand 2E30 in Hall 2.
Motorsport fans can join the action and raise funds for the worthy Alzheimer’s Society by competing in the Dan Wheldon Karting Trophy during January’s Autosport International.
A regular feature at Europe’s biggest motorsport show, the three-hour charity karting race will be held on Saturday 10 January from 6pm at Birmingham’s NEC during the 8-11 January* event.
The annual race celebrates the life and achievements of dual Indy 500 winner and 2005 IndyCar Champion Dan Wheldon, who died in a racing incident in October 2011.
The Dan Wheldon Tribute Fund has raised over £51,000 to date, with the 2014 karting trophy contributing £7,000. Coronation Street actor and Alzheimer’s Society celebrity supporter Tony Hirst was among the field, joined by the likes of former World Superbike Champion Troy Corser, commentator Steve Parish and British Touring Car Championship drivers Adam Morgan and Dan Welch.
Autosport International’s bespoke indoor karting track will host the action, with Teesside Karting providing the 160cc machinery. Teams can enter by emailing admin@teessidekarting.co.uk or calling 01642 231117.
In January, Tony Hirst, known to Corrie fans as fire fighter Paul Kershaw, will be returning to the track.
“I was a huge fan of Dan’s and I’m a passionate supporter of Alzheimer’s Society so I was really honoured to take part last year,” he said.
“It’s a great event and I would encourage anyone who loves their motorsports to sign-up for the race on the Saturday. I can’t wait to be involved again and just hope our team beat both last year’s fundraising efforts and our race time!”
“As a family, it so important we’re able to keep Dan’s memory alive by doing something that he loved and raising money for a charity so close to all of our hearts in the Alzheimer’s Society,” said Jo Wheldon, sister-in-law of Dan.
“The Dan Wheldon Karting Trophy captures so much about Dan, extremely competitive but hugely fun and we’re looking forward to the 2015 race at Autosport International.”
Once again celebrities and motorsport stars will be on-hand to mentor the 25 teams, providing trackside advice. A six-person team can enter for £300 with the opportunity to raise additional funds by securing their own sponsorship.
Show attendees will also be able to make donations to the Alzheimer’s Society through collection buckets located near the entry to Autosport International’s 5,000-seat Live Action Arena as well as through the Just Giving page.
“We are proud to host the Dan Wheldon Karting Trophy. The race has been a popular part of Autosport International over the years, and we hope to see a great turnout on 10 January,” said Ian France, Autosport International Show Director.
Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2015, Autosport International will feature appearances by the likes of 2014 FIA World Rallycross and 2003 World Rally Champion Petter Solberg and British Touring Car Championship heroes Matt Neal, Andrew Jordan and Gordon Shedden.
Special displays will showcase Formula 1, karting, touring car racing, rallying and historic motorsport, while the latest supercars and high-performance favourites will star in the Performance Car Show, in association with Autocar and PistonHeads.com.
Tickets are available from £32 for adults, with children’s tickets priced from £21 and children under five years admitted for free. To book and for further details, visit www.autosportinternational.com
Suzuki has launched its new 50/50 campaign on all V-Strom 1000 models, offering customers the option to ride away with no monthly payments and 0% finance.
The new offer gives customers even greater flexibility with the choice to pay half the cost of the bike upfront and then either pay the remaining balance in two years time or, if they prefer, pay the remaining 50% in monthly instalments over 24 months, with both options available interest free.
Suzuki GB National Sales Manager Jonathan Martin said, “We’re always trying to offer our customers the best possible value. The V-Strom 1000 already offers that with its high level of spec, but now it makes even more sense when you add in the 0% APR finance and 50/50 payment offer. It means customers can often ride away a new V-Strom 1000 without parting with any cash if they have a bike to part-exchange that is worth half of the agreed sale price. Customers then have the option to defer the final payment for two years meaning no monthly repayments, or can clear the balance over 24 months, either way its interest free.”
For more information on the V-Strom range or to obtain a finance quote visit www.suzuki-gb.co.uk
Following the unveiling of two factory customs at this year’s EICMA (Milan, 4th– 9th November) exhibition, Triumph Motorcycles is calling for riders across the world to vote for their favourite model. With the winner set to be announced at Motorcycle Live in Birmingham (22-30 November), the custom competition will finally resolve one of biking’s biggest battle – Bobber v. Scrambler.
The BobberThe competition began with two sets of volunteers from within the Triumph factory in Hinckley being tasked with creating the ultimate custom bike from a standard Bonneville base.Combining minimalistic style with a stripped-back riding experience, the first team’s custom Bobber is a feast for the eyes of any committed bike lover.
Incorporating a low, sinuous stance into their Bonnie base, girder forks have been completely redesigned to give better handling than traditional an all-together smoother ride. The incredible engineering design has been rolled out across the bike, with a traditional solo seat wired with Radianz LED lights to demonstrate exceptional attention to detail.
The innovation isn’t just evident in the bike’s exterior, however. Using a ’69 Bonnie US Export fuel tank, the team successfully overcame the issue of incorporating modern electronics, looms and sensors that usually beset custom bike-builds. By splitting the tank in two – one half being used for electrical components and the other for fuel – the team managed to maximise the efficiency of the bike without compromising its overall on-road efficiency.
This is just scratching the bike’s surface. Countless other details are coupled with truly staggering engineering flourishes to create Triumph’s custom Bobber – a bike that calls back to the firm’s pioneering heritage.
To see the Bobber in action,
The Scrambler
Having won a legion of loyal fans thanks to their status as purposeful, powerful and aggressive off-road alternatives to stock road bikes, scramblers set the pace for custom-bike builders.
Using the standard Bonneville base, the second factory team wanted to reduce weight but maximise power, so set about streamlining the bike to bring it closer in line with a scrambler-style motocross model. To achieve this, the team replaced the existing steel frame with a bespoke aluminium and titanium chassis and incorporated a bespoke carbon fuel tank to give the bike a sportier overall look.
In order to add some spark to the Scrambler, the team completely modified its twin engine, engineering a one-off set of high-lift cams. Overall, the impressive range of engine mods gave the custom Scrambler a mighty 25% boost in overall power, bringing the bike roaring into life and more than matching the sleek new exterior.
To take a closer look at the Scrambler, please visit:
Your vote counts!
The result of hours of skill, craftsmanship and some industry leading genius, both bikes represent the very best of custom design and reflect the vision and passion of the Triumph factory. But who is your overall winner? To have your say, visit http://www.triumphmotorcycles.co.uk/triumphfactorycustom and share your favourite bike through social media. The bike and team with the most shares by 9am, Wednesday 26th November will be declared the winner at Motorcycle Live 2014.
Designed for intensive urban use and to be subjected to the most demanding of impacts and stresses, the MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre offers three significant advances in comparison with its predecessor and rivals, namely unprecedented robustness to substantially reduce punctures, enhanced safety and longer life. It is intended for small motorcycles of up to 150cc and big-wheeled scooters.
Whether it is used by a city-dweller commuting to and from work, a motorcycle taxi rider or a delivery rider dealing with big-city traffic jams, the MICHELIN CITY Pro is perfectly adapted to the needs of its users. Its overall package is the product of a convergence of innovations and optimisation work:
MICHELIN’s technologies yield a more robust tyre that is 20 per cent more puncture-resistant than rival products.
Its specifically developed compound ensures a 10 percent longer lifespan than that of its competitors.
Finally, its new tread pattern delivers enhanced grip on dry, wet and slippery surfaces.
The salient features of the new MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre can be summed up as greater strength and safety over a longer distance, an achievement which embodies the MICHELIN Total Performance plan to push out the envelope in all the areas that affect tyre performance simultaneously and uncomprisingly.
The MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre is the second new addition to Michelin’s motorcycle range in 2014 after the MICHELIN Pilot Road 4, and is available in 21 sizes for wheels of between 14 and 18 inches and speed ratings ranging from ‘P’ (up to 150kph) to ‘S’ (up to 180kph).
MISSION
Users’ demands
When a means of transport serves also as a work tool, it naturally needs to be strong and reliable whatever the circumstances, and tyres obviously play an essential role when it comes to maximising mobility. Michelin made this parameter a key priority throughout the development of the new MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre.
Its designers paid careful attention to ensuring they understood the needs of its users who daily ride to and from work on difficult roads and need a blend of strength and durability, with the accent still very much on safety.
This was no mean challenge when you reflect that this tyre must be capable of meeting user needs in all kinds of weather. Taking into account this variety of challenges, Michelin had to deploy all its expertise to create the MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre, a solution featuring a raft of cutting-edge technologies.
Users
The MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre was designed to meet the needs of frequent riders (up to six or seven days per week and covering between 150 and 200 kilometres per day) who may be travelling alone, with a passenger or with a load and in demanding traffic situations (traffic jams, frequent stopping-and-starting, wet and slippery roads or uneven surfaces) and who expect safety, long tyre life and no time lost due to punctures.
The launch of this new tyre, which meets the needs of customers in Southeast Asia, is ideally suited to the working environments of its different markets. Indeed, it provides an effective solution to the sort of damage that can be caused by sharp objects such as nails and glass debris, as well as by deteriorating asphalt, potholes, and unexpected changes in grip, including drain covers, painted road markings and gravel.
The MICHELIN City Pro tyre is THE tyre solution for greater safety, enhanced robustness and consistently dependable performance for motorcyclists.
EXPLAINED
The technologies employed to ensure greater puncture-resistance whilst at the same time offering safety and long tyre life
Unprecedented robustness
MICHELIN Overlap Technology (MOT) incorporates built-in protection in the form of three reinforced plies underneath the tread which is itself characterised by the thickness of the rubber used. This technology yields unprecedented results, since the MICHELIN CITY Protyre improves puncture-resistance by 20 percent compared to its best-performing rival*. This result was confirmed by an in-house test conducted by Michelin during a 444,000km-long run in real-world conditions with 48 motorcycles: only one puncture for every 100,000km covered**.
Machine used for the standard perforation energy test. This test provides proof that it is necessary to expend 20 percent more energy to puncture a MICHELIN City Pro tyre than is required to puncture its best-performing competitor
* Braking Energy tests carried out by TÜV Rheinland Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. between March 3 and March 9, 2014, comparing the MICHELIN City Pro (80/90-17 50S) with the IRC Eagle Grip NR73 (80/90-17 44S) and DUNLOP TT900 and D104J (80/90-17 44P). Individual results may vary depending upon motorcycle type and operating conditions.
** In-house tests carried out by Michelin in normal conditions of use in Bangkok between November 14, 2013, and March 26, 2014, with 48 motorcycles. Individual results may vary depending upon the motorcycle and operating conditions.
Improved air-tightness thanks to the tyre’s internal rubber which protects the inner tube and helps to minimise the risk of loss of air pressure as a result of abrasion.
Longer tyre life
The new compound especially developed for the MICHELIN City Pro tyre marks an improvement over that of the former MICHELIN M35. Tyre life is10 percent longer compared with the MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre’s best-performing rival*. Once again, this was confirmed by the results of an in-house test carried out by Michelin in Bangkok between November 14, 2013, and March 26, 2014. Over the 440,000km covered by 48 motorcycles, the average durability of the front tyre was 30,000km, and that of the rear tyre 20,000km.
*Comparison tests carried out by Dekra in June, 2013 with the MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre vs. IRC Maxing NR58, Dunlop D104 and MICHELIN M35. Rear tyres: 70/90-17 (MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre / Dunlop D104) and 2.50-17 (IRC Maxing NR58 / MICHELIN M35 tyre).
Enhanced safety
The MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre features an optimised contact patch for even more efficient performance. Its innovative tread pattern ensures even better grip compared to its predecessor, the MICHELIN M35 tyre.
Thanks to its central groove, barley ear pattern and a sea-to-land that which varies according to the motorcycle’s angle of lean (from 30 percent for the central part of the tread to up to 35 percent on the shoulders), the MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre is capable of expelling water more effectively than before. Its tread pattern thereby provides improved grip on dry, wet and slippery roads.
During in-house tests carried out by Michelin, this translated, on a wet surface, to a higher angle of lean* and a 1.3-second faster lap time** for the MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre in comparison with its best-performing competitor
*In-house test carried out in March 2014, comparing the MICHELIN City Pro to the IRC MAXING NR58, DUNLOP TT100 and DUNLOP D104. Sizes: 70/90-17 and 80/90-17 (MICHELIN City Pro and DUNLOP D104), and 2.25-17 and 2.50-17 (IRC MAXING NR58 and DUNLOP TT100).
The results may vary according to the motorbike and running conditions.
**In-house test carried out in March 2013, comparing the MICHELIN City Pro tyre to the IRC MAXING NR58, DUNLOP D104 and MICHELIN M35. Sizes: 60/90-17 and 70/90-17 (MICHELIN City Pro), 60/100-17 and 70/90-17 (Dunlop D104) and 2.25-17 & 2.50-17 (IRC MAXING NR58 / MICHELIN M35).
The results may vary according to the motorbike and running conditions.
MICHELIN CITY Pro: A comprehensive range
From its first year on sale, the MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre will be available in 21 sizes for wheels of between 14 and 18 inches, and with speed ratings ranging from ‘P’ (up to 150kph) to ‘S’ (up to 180kph).
This carefully-targeted range is intended for small-engined two-wheeled vehicles of up to 150cc. It is suitable for a wide spectrum of models, from the Honda Vision 110 to the Yamaha Spark Nano, Piaggio Liberty 50cc, Sym Symphony 125, Honda SH 125i, Yamaha Xenter 125, Honda CG 150 Fan 1 Titan and Honda Wave/Dream.
This catalogue of sizes means that, in the very first year, the MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre will be able to cover 75 per cent of motorbikes on the road in its target countries.
Michelin Total Performance
The new MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre is characterised by enhanced robustness in addition to improved safety in all conditions… and for longer.
More than simply increasing its all-round performance, the objective was to make gains in different areas of performance that are commonly believed to be irreconcilable, namely resistance to punctures, grip on dry, wet or slippery surfaces and durability.
In order to blend all of these qualities in the same tyre, it was necessary to call upon pioneering technologies, extensive testing capacity and advanced production techniques.
The MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre is the concrete embodiment of the MICHELIN Total Performance strategy, which consistently and collectively improves all performance aspects of the tyres, however distinct each one’s function may be.
This challenge was made possible by Michelin’s in-depth knowledge and expertise allied to an investment of more than €640 million for Research & Development purposes.
By way of illustration, purely for tyres intended for two-wheeled vehicles, Michelin’s developers produce 450 prototypes and dedicate 12,000 hours to calculation work every year.
DEFINING
MICHELIN CITY Pro in 10 key figures
1 MICHELIN City Pro, the most puncture-resistant tyre in its class
1 The number of punctures per 100,000km*
3 The number of protective crown plies
10 Additional durability (expressed as a percentage) compared with rival tyres
20 Additional resistance to punctures (expressed as a percentage) compared with rival tyres
21 The number of sizes available
48 The number of motorcycle taxis used during the test in Bangkok
20,000 The average number of kilometres covered by the rear tyre
30,000 The average number of kilometres covered by the front tyre
440,000 The number of kilometres covered by participants in the course of the test conducted by Michelin in Bangkok
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