Venhill

FRANDO brake calliper and disc for Yamaha R6

New from FRANDO, a replacement 4-piston brake calliper and floating front brake disc suitable for models of Yamaha’s popular YZF-R6 supersport 600 from 2005-2010.

A relatively new name to UK motorcyclists, FRANDO has manufactured a range of specialist braking components, including discs, callipers and master cylinders, since the 1990′s. The factory operates the ISO/TS16949 international quality management system for automotive suppliers, to ensure consistency throughout the design, development and manufacture of its products.

The calliper body is CNC machined from forged aluminium alloy, with a pitch of 108mm. The four 32mm pistons are made from titanium, which is light, durable and offers excellent heat dissipation, and the brake pads are sintered, for durability and wet weather performance. The calliper body is secured with alloy steel screws. Total weight is 1050g. Retail price is £415- including VAT.

A matching 300mm diameter floating disc is also available. Its outer is 5mm thick Japanese stainless 420 steel, with an aluminium 7075 inner, chosen for its high strength-to-density ratio. The buttons that connect the inner and outer are produced from Japanese galvanized iron SU304 and carry a 2-year worldwide warranty. Retail price is £187- including Vat.

FRANDO is distributed in the UK by Venhill, the motorcycle control specialists. For more information call 01306 885111 or visit www.venhill.co.uk.

BMW Motorrad

BMW’s all-new R 1200 GS is the best-selling motorcycle over 125cc in the UK

BMW’s all-new R 1200 GS is the best-selling motorcycle over 125cc in the UK – for the fourth consecutive year. 

Successful 2013 sees BMW Motorrad top the adventure-sports and touring sectors while growing market share.

BMW Motorrad’s class-leading R 1200 GS has, once again, dominated both the adventure-sports sector and overall sales, becoming the UK’s best-selling motorcycle over 125cc. This is the fourth consecutive year that the GS has achieved this feat.

The brand is also celebrating increasing market share overall, as well as in the adventure-sports and touring sectors.

BMW R 1200 GS 2013 sales highlights:

  • The 2013 liquid-cooled BMW R 1200 GS was the UK’s best-selling motorcycle over 125cc, with 1,737 registered.
  • This is the fourth consecutive year that the R 1200 GS has been the UK’s best-selling motorcycle over 125cc.
  • The R 1200 GS outsold the second best-selling motorcycle in the UK by a ratio of 2.3 to 1 (1,737 to 743).
  • Over 25,000 of the new R 1200 GS have been sold worldwide, the most for any new model in the 90-year history of BMW Motorrad.

BMW Motorrad UK 2013 sales highlights:

  • The air-cooled R 1200 GS Adventure was the third best-selling motorcycle in the UK over 125cc and the second best-selling adventure-sports model with 735 registered in 2013.
  • BMW GS motorcycles now account for 27.7% of sales in the growing adventure-sports sector. This has increased from 25% in 2012.
  • The air-cooled R 1200 RT was the UK’s best-selling touring motorcycle, with 617 registered.
  • The R 1200 RT was also the 10th best-selling motorcycle over 125cc in the UK.
  • The new F 800 GT middleweight was the second best-selling touring motorcycle, with 474 registrations.
  • Four out of the top five best-selling touring motorcycles in the UK are BMWs (K 1600 GT & K 1600 GTL fourth and fifth respectively).
  • BMW motorcycles now account for 52.3% of the touring sector.
  • BMW Motorrad’s UK market share over 500cc has grown from 14.4% in 2012 to 15.9% in 2013.
  • Market share has almost tripled from 5.7% in 2007 to 15.9% in 2013.
  • BMW Motorrad is the second most popular brand over 500cc in the UK.

BMW Motorrad 2013 worldwide sales highlights:

  • BMW Motorrad celebrated its third consecutive all-time sales high in 2013, with over 115,000 motorcycles sold globally.
  • Over 25,000 of the all-new R 1200 GS sold worldwide.
  • The debut of the new R 1200 GS saw the best ever first-year sales of any new model in BMW Motorrad’s nine decades.

Adrian Roderick, General Manager for BMW Motorrad UK, said: “We are delighted to be able to say that the BMW R 1200 GS is, once again, the UK’s best-selling motorcycle over 125cc. The first ever liquid-cooled R 1200 GS offers performance, technology and innovation, taking adventure-sports motorcycles to an entirely new level. For it to have achieved such success in its first year is a wonderful endorsement from owners.

“What’s more, for the R 1200 RT and R 1200 GS Adventure to have sold so well is huge commendation for these much-loved models. With both being replaced by all-new liquid-cooled versions in March, we look forward to further strengthening BMW Motorrad’s position at the top of the touring and adventure-sports sectors.

“On the global scale, BMW Motorrad has celebrated its third consecutive all-time best year of sales in 2013. The new GS has been a huge part of that success; with the liquid-cooled model breaking BMW’s own records for the best first year sales of any model in their 90-year-history.”

For more information on BMW Motorrad products and services, visit www.bmw-motorrad.co.uk or call 0800 777 155.

Aftermarket

Öhlins Strengthen TTX Hypersport Line-Up With New RT (Road And Track) Shock

To complement the recently launched high end TTX GP shock, Öhlins Racing now unveils a RT (Road & Track) shock for the hypersport segment. The new TTX RT unit comes in a high specification but with a more affordable pricetag.

The new TTX RT model is available for most modern Hypersport machines and is designed for road and trackday riders. The Road and Track shock differentiates itself from the race focused GP model to give riders more choice to upgrade their machine.

Based on the ultra popular TTX36 model, the new shock has a traditional C-spanner type pre load adjustment, plus has the advantage of rebound and compression adjustment being easily accessible on top of the cylinder head.

New, improved standard settings are built into the shock as the world renowned Öhlins R&D engineers have fine tuned the unit. The shock has again been designed around the ultra efficient TTX twin tube technology to eliminate cavitation, and was developed in the ultra competitive world of MotoGP racing.

Available for order now from Öhlins Centres across the UK, the TTX RT retails at £863 + VAT.

Technical Highlights
·         TTX-technology – no cavitation risk!
·         Wide adjuster range
·         Completely separated functions for rebound and compression damping
·         All adjustments are done on the cylinder head of the shock absorber
·         Length adjustable for most models

Robert Brinkmark, Öhlins Product Manager Motorcycles commented, “We have had customer feedback and saw great demand for a Road & Track style product for the hypersport market, so we are very pleased to launch the new RT as a competitively priced product yet still derived from our race winning TTX technology.

The RT and GP shocks complement each other to create a complete hypersports line-up satisfying the needs of road riders, track-day enthusiasts right up to the race winning Superbike teams.”

The new TTX RT is available for the following models
BMW S1000RR (2012-14)
Kawasaki ZX-10R (2011-14)
Honda CBR 1000RR (2008-13)
Yamaha YZF R6 (2006-14)
Suzuki GSX-R 600/750 (2011-14
Suzuki GSX-R 1000 (2009-14)

The full line-up of Öhlins Centres in the UK are; BG Motorsport, Crescent Motorcycles, FTR Suspension, Harris Performance Products Ltd, Kais Suspension Services, MH Racing Services, Mick Gardner Racing and P&H Motorcycles.

BMW Motorrad

New StreetGuard high-performance all-season suit from BMW Motorrad

Countless sizing options and the most advanced textiles ever make the new StreetGuard BMW Motorrad’s best-ever suit.

The all-new BMW Motorrad StreetGuard is a true four-season riding suit, combining protection from weather and climate in one hugely customisable and adaptable package.

With countless sizing combinations available, and offering separate men’s and women’s cuts, and the choice of long and short jackets to ensure a the perfect fit, riders can be confident that the StreetGuard will fit as perfectly as it functions. Whatever your ride has in store, the new StreetGuard will be ready.

  • Brand new all-season high-performance textile suit is the most advanced in the BMW Motorrad Rider Equipment range
  • Lighter, more flexible and even better ventilated than the hugely popular StreetGuard 3 suit
  • Waterproof and windproof resistant in all weather and climates thanks to advanced textiles and BMW C.A.R.E. Intelligent membrane
  • Constructed from BMW’s own ‘3-Perform’ armoured fabric and brand-new ‘ProtectionGuard’ – an advanced textile developed exclusively for the new StreetGuard
  • Exceeds all CE and UK requirements for protection and abrasion resistance
  • Adjustable and removable BMW NP2 protectors at back, shoulders, elbows, hips and knees
  • Huge range of sizes and cuts for both male and female riders with endless possible combinations to ensure the perfect fit
  • Removable softshell inner jacket with Thinsulate padding, removable storm collar and storm hood ensure the rider is kept warm and dry
  • Even better value with the StreetGuard jacket  at £600 (long version £625) and trousers £495 (2013 prices £630 / £495)

The pinnacle of BMW Motorrad’s textile suit range features the latest in advanced materials, innovative design touches and high quality armour to ensure that riders can enjoy their motorcycle whatever the weather and conditions.

The suit is made from BMW’s own ‘3-Perform’ fabric, which is an abrasion-resistant, three-layer elasticated laminate that is windproof, waterproof and breathable, combined with the BMW Intelligent C.A.R.E climate membrane.

Potential impact areas are reinforced with BMW’s own ProtectionGuard fabric, which has been developed exclusively for the StreetGuard. This advanced textile has both the feel and the properties of suede leather, offering the protection of leather with the climate-beating properties of a textile

In addition to the main ‘3-Protect’ textile’s weather-beating properties, the StreetGuard suit also boasts a brand-new removable softshell thermal inner jacket with Thinsulate padding. This inner jacket helps retains body heat even in extreme cold conditions without needing any additional heating.

The suit also includes an integral storm collar and storm hood, which can be worn under the helmet to ensure that there are no gaps for rain water to find even in the most challenging weather conditions.

For the first time ever, the StreetGuard jacket is available in both regular and long versions, the latter offering a longer tailored cut with an adjustable belt at the waist.

To ensure the StreetGuard fits as well as it performs, both male and female tailored versions are available, as well as independent sizing of both jacket and trousers. Each garment can also be chosen in a variety of shorter and longer arm and leg cuts, giving hundreds of potential combinations. The male version comes with removable braces and the female version with an elasticated removable waistlet, to help give a comfortable, practical fit.

The StreetGuard jacket costs £600 (regular) and £625 (long) and the StreetGuard trousers £495. The suit will be available in BMW Motorrad Dealerships from February 2014 onwards.

For more information on BMW Motorrad products and services, call 0800 777 155 or visit www.bmw-motorrad.co.uk.

Autosport International, Shows and Events

Champions Put On Sell-Out Show At Autosport International

Champions from the world of racing headed to Birmingham’s NEC for a sell-out day to conclude Autosport International 2014, Europe’s largest motorsport show.

Visitors flocked to the show over the weekend to celebrate the start of the season and see Formula One World Champion John Surtees, multiple 24 Hours of Le Mans winners and 2013 World Endurance Champions Tom Kristensen and Allan McNish, World Rally Champion Petter Solberg and British Touring Car Champions Andrew Jordan, Matt Neal, Jason Plato, Colin Turkington and Gordon Shedden.

They were joined by German pilot Adrian Sutil, who made his Autosport International debut ahead of his 2014 season with the Sauber F1 Team.

“It’s been great getting to see British fans, who are so enthusiastic and knowledgeable about motorsport,” said Adrian Sutil. “The show covers all categories and I was impressed by the Live Action Arena, which is a great place to see racing alongside the show’s displays. Being so busy during the year, it’s also been good to catch up with other drivers like Allan McNish and Tom Kristensen ahead of the season.”

The F1 contingent continued with appearances from former driver and Sky Sports F1 presenter Martin Brundle as well as British rookie Max Chilton, who was announced as Marussia F1 Team’s second driver for the 2014 season. Meanwhile, cars from all teams competing in the 2013 F1 season were present on the F1 Racing Grid.

“It’s been fantastic to have so many champions and distinguished drivers from the world of motorsport at the show,” said Ian France, Autosport International Show Director.

“Hosting two F1 drivers and the announcement of Max Chilton’s drive for the season ahead have been major highlights, and we wish all the drivers the very best for the 2014 season.”

Next year’s Autosport International will take place on 8-11 January 2015 at Birmingham’s NEC.

Security

Croc Lock

Motorcycle security should be at the forefront of every riders mind, not just overnight at home but whilst out and about, too. Datatool has the answer for portable security on the go with Croc Lock.

Simple to use and highly visible, the Croc Lock is the must-have theft deterrent for scooters, motorcycles and ATVs. Croc Lock works by locking the front brake lever to the handlebar, preventing the motorcycle or ATV from being pushed away.

Available in vibrant yellow, orange or black, Croc Lock is more visible than a standard disc lock, easier to install and impossible to forget!

With an RRP of just £29.95, Croc Lock is an affordable solution offering secure peace of mind to the motorcyclist on the move.

www.datatool.co.uk

t: 01257 249 928

Autosport International, Shows and Events

Performance Car Show Lights Up Birmingham

Stunning supercars from the likes of Ferrari, Aston Martin, Jaguar, Porsche and McLaren were admired by a sell-out audience of car fans during the final day of the Performance Car Show at Birmingham’s NEC today.

Held alongside motorsport’s Autosport International, the best of the motoring world was on display during the show, with special collections of the latest high-performance cars accompanied by new model launches and live performances.

“It’s been another amazing instalment of the Performance Car Show in association with Autocar and PistonHeads.com,” said Ian France, Performance Car Show Director.

“We’ve hosted some of the world’s fastest and most desirable cars for the big crowd at the show to enjoy over the course of the weekend, while talking to suppliers of the latest performance parts and accessories. We thank all of the show exhibitors and attendees, and look forward to seeing everyone in 2015.”

On its Supercar Display, show partner Autocar hosted almost 3,000bhp, led by the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta, which features a 731bhp, V12 engine and a top speed of 211mph. It was joined by some of Britain’s finest, the new, 565bhp Aston Martin Vanquish, 542bhp Jaguar XKRS GT and 616bhp McLaren 12C GT Sprint, and the Tesla Model S from America, which produces up to 416bhp from its electric motor.

During packed shows in the 5,000-seat Live Action Arena, the motoring bible demonstrated its Britain’s Best Driver’s Cars of 2013 in a special presentation. The line-up included the 468bhp Porsche 911 GT3, Aston Martin V12 Vantage S, Jaguar F-TYPE S, Mercedes-Benz A 45 AMG, Porsche Cayman S and Ariel Atom 3.5 SC.

New models were on display including UK debuts of the Vauxhall VXR8 GTS, Abarth 595 50th Anniversary Edition and the launches of the Zenos Cars E10 and Radical RXC Turbo, powered by Ford’s EcoBoost engine. Unique creations such as the Caterham AeroSeven Concept and Renault Twizy F1 concept were also on hand.

PistonHeads hosted a diverse display of 16 of its favourite Heroes, with cult motoring classics from four different countries.

Within the display, the UK was represented by Chassis Number 1 of the legendary Jaguar D-Type, which won Le Mans in 1955, 1956 and 1957, the James Bond-approved Aston Martin Works Vantage, Lotus’ infamous Carlton and a pair of TVRs. Chassis Number 200 of Ford’s RS200, the Audi Quattro and Peugeot 205 T16 starred from rallying’s beloved Group B era of the 1980s.

Germany’s Porsche 911, Mercedes-Benz 450SEL 6.9, BMW E30 M3 Sport Evolution and Volkswagen Golf Mk1 as well as the Renault Clio V6 255 from France were joined by Japan’s renowned Honda NSX and Nissan Skyline GT-R R34.

The 2015 Performance Car Show will be held at Birmingham’s NEC on 8-11 January. For further information about the show, visit www.performancecarshow.com.

SPIDI

Spidi R/T Leather Jacket

Spidi R/T is a sport jacket without compromise that Spidi designed and conceived in its Safety Lab, taking full inspiration from the racing expertise. R/T is tailored with a 1.2mm Italian cowhide and features a high surface of elastic non- resistance fabrics for the best comfort.

Technical features:

– Full grain Italian cowhide leather (1,2mm thickness)

– Removable thermal insulating vest (80 gr/sqm)

– Mesh inner lining

– Aerodynamic hump

– EN 1621-1 certified Forcetech protectors on shoulders and elbows

– Warrior Back Protector certified EN 1621-2 Lev.1 or Lev.2 arrangement

– Warrior Chest Protector certified prEN 1621-3 arrangement

– Flex Tenax areas for perfect fitting

– Perimetric fastening with Spidi trousers

– Clip stop to join the trousers

– Neoprene inserts on neck area

– Dynamic vents on shoulders

Industry News

BONE-shaker MARROW-thon

RIDERS are being asked to prove that biking is in their blood by joining a charity motorcycle ride.

Organised by Burton Mail journalist and bike enthusiast Stephen Sinfield, the ride on Sunday, March 2, will raise money for Cure Leukaemia, Anthony Nolan and the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham Charity.

Under the banner of the BONE-shaker MARROW-thon, the ride was organised after the journalist’s wife, Katherine, was diagnosed with leukaemia last year.

The ride has been designed so that it starts at Birmingham’s Queen’s Elizabeth Hospital and passes the Queen’s Hospital in Burton-on-Trent – the two hospitals responsible for Katherine’s care.

This Queen’s to Queen’s route will finish at the Pirelli Stadium in Burton-on-Trent, where a family fun day will take place.

A special biker-themed raffle is one of the perks for riders on the day who are asked to make a ￡5 donation. For more details or to pre-register your place, visit www.katherines-story.com.  Follow @The_Boneshaker on Twitter or boneshaker.marrowthon on Facebook for updates.

Ride details: meet at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham. Car Park A (roof top) Postcode: B15 2WB. 9.30am meet for prompt 10am departure. Rider donation can be paid on the day or in advance via PayPal at www.katherines-story.com. Pre-ride refreshments will be available at BLD Motorcycle Centre, (Demuth Way, Oldbury B69 4LT). Route = 35 miles.

Note: in case you are wondering about the capitals and hyphenation in the name BONE-shaker MARROW-thon, it is intentional as the name spells bone marrow – the cause of leukaemia, and subsequently, a bone marrow transplant is the only cure. Katherine had a bone marrow transplant in October 2013 thanks to Anthony Nolan sourcing a donor in Germany.

Battery Chargers

Optimate 5 Voltmatic Recovers Both 6 And 12 Volt Batteries

OptiMate™ 5 Voltmatic is the first ever charger capable of automatically recovering 6V lead-acid batteries from deep discharge. Light [600 grammes] and compact, the OptiMate 5 VoltMatic will also charge and maintain medium to large 12V batteries [from 8Ah to 120Ah] making it suitable for motorcycles, motor boats and motor homes, as well as most cars and vans.

OptiMate 5 VoltMatic retains the fully automatic, 100% safe and easy-to-use characteristics of the 2 million OptiMates produced since 1995. Capable of recovering batteries retaining as little as 1 volt, OptiMate 5 identifies whether a battery is 6V or 12V and then runs a series of tests to see whether it requires desulphation or bulk charge. It then delivers charge in controlled pulses that equalise the voltage in each of the battery cells and checks that charge is being retained, before indicating that the battery has reached full charge.

Unlike other smart chargers, OptiMate has a unique 30 minute charge/30 minute rest cycle, during every hour of long-term maintenance charge, so it can be left connected to the battery while the vehicle is parked without any risk of overcharging or overheating. In a weatherproof sealed enclosure with 2 metre long input and output cables, the OptiMate 5 is supplied with both a permanent ringlet connection lead that has a weatherproof cap and battery ‘crocodile’ clips for bench charging.

Compatible with STD lead-acid batteries (with removable filler caps), sealed AGM ‘maintenance free’, GEL and spiral cell types too, OptiMate 5 VoltMatic retails for £77.50 including VAT. For information on the complete range of OptiMate battery optimisers and accessories visit www.tecmate–int.com.

Autosport International, Shows and Events

Start the New Season In Style

With an unmatched combination of cars, stars and action, Autosport International will host the launch of the 2014 motorsport season at Birmingham’s NEC this weekend.

Europe’s largest motorsport show was attended by almost 80,000 people in 2013, and the line-up for the 2014 event on 11-12 January has been boosted with the addition of former World Rally Champion Petter Solberg and FIA World Touring Car Championship race winner Tom Chilton to Saturday’s line-up.

Fans will also hear from the likes of the only man to have won world championships on two and four wheels, John Surtees, former F1 racer and Sky Sports commentator Martin Brundle and Sauber F1 Team driver Adrian Sutil. Le Mans legends Tom Kristensen and Allan McNish will also take to the stage, along with British Touring Car Champions Andrew Jordan, Matt Neal, Jason Plato and Gordon Shedden, and F1 test drivers Gary Paffett, Sam Bird and James Calado.

Starting 50th anniversary celebrations of Surtees’ 1964 Formula One World Championship, the British legends’ life in motorsport will be honoured with a collection of his race cars and bikes, including his title-winning Ferrari 158.

Every Formula One team will appear on the F1 Racing Grid, Jordan’s title-winner leads a dedicated BTCC display, while the Wales Rally GB feature includes the Subarus used by Colin McRae to win the rally in 1997, and Richard Burns to secure the 2001 World Rally Championship on home soil.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming motorsport fans to Autosport International this weekend, in what’s shaping up as yet another unparalleled show to launch the new season,” said Ian France, Autosport International Director.

“With a line-up of guests led by the legendary John Surtees, cars from every level of motorsport, the sensational Live Action Arena, the latest supercars in the Performance Car Show and a wide variety of interactive elements, there really is something for every enthusiast at the NEC.”

A four-time winner of Wales Rally GB and the 2003 WRC Champion, the popular Solberg will appear at the show on Saturday morning, ahead of the 2014 FIA World Rallycross Championship.

“I’ve always enjoyed competing in the UK, and obviously I have special memories from my victories at Wales Rally GB, so I’m looking forward to catching up with the passionate fans at Autosport International,” the Norwegian said.

Having previously won races and an Independent Drivers’ Trophy in the British Touring Car Championship, Chilton’s second season in the FIA World Touring Car Championship saw the 28-year-old win two races and claim fifth in the standings, having sat third before Macau’s chaotic season finale.

An array of new cars will be in the spotlight on the eve of the new season, including F1 race winner Robert Kubica’s RK M-Sport World Rally Team Ford Fiesta RS WRC for his maiden campaign in the FIA World Rally Championship.

The BTCC presence at Autosport International will include 2014 livery launches for race winner Rob Austin and series newcomer Simon Belcher, while Honda’s new Civic Tourer will be displayed throughout the show.

Representing a unique piece of motorsport history, Classic Team Lotus has restored a Formula One championship winner to return to the public eye for the first time in decades, while television broadcaster Motors TV is running a competition to find a commentator and host for its 2014 British GT Championship coverage.

Sky Sports commentator David Croft and the Gadget Show’s Pollyanna Woodward will host proceedings in the UK’s largest indoor racetrack, the 5,000-seat Live Action Arena, and the very best of the motoring world will also be on display, through the Performance Car Show.

Alongside special collections of supercars and the latest high-performance models from the likes of Ferrari, Aston Martin, Jaguar and McLaren, and an exclusive showing of the newly-announced WhatCar? 2014 Sports Car of the Year, the Porsche Boxster 2.7. The show will host the launch of the Lotus Elise S Cup R and Sin R1, and the UK debuts of the Abarth 595 50th Anniversary Edition, Vauxhall VXR8 GTS.

Autosport International tickets can be pre-purchased online, from £31 for adults and £20 for children, or at the door, from £33 for adults or £22 for children. For more information about the show, visit www.autosportinternational.com.

Weise

Weise line-up for 2014

Weise clothing has introduced several new lines for 2014, including a highly specified all-season touring jacket, a neon yellow textile jacket for riders who want to stand out and an armoured fashion jacket for women. Plus waterproof sport gloves too.

Designed to cope with British weather’s unpredictable seasons, the BORA jacket has a reliable ISOTEX waterproof/breathable drop lining and removable 140-gram thermal quilted lining to handle rain and cold. Red detailing highlights this jacket’s technical features, such as the YKK® main central zipper that has a Velcro® and popper retained storm flap for total weather protection. Also picked out in red are the four external waterproof pockets and large rear pocket. Zipped ventilation on the chest, lower arms and torso can be opened up in hot conditions and warm air can escape through the exhaust vent across the back. CE approved armour is fitted to shoulders, elbow and back. The Weise BORA is produced in sizes SM–5XL in gun/red and retails for £239.99 (including VAT).

Featuring neon yellow panels and detailing, the updated HORNET II jacket is aimed at riders who want to stand out from the traffic and is enhanced with reflective panels to chest, back and lower arm for added night-time visibility. Made from tough 600 denier fabric, the HORNET II features CE approved armour to shoulders, elbow and back. Like the BORA, it features a waterproof and breathable lining, storm-flap closure and removable 140-gram quilted thermal lining. Zipped ventilation to chest and lower arms is easy to operate, even with gloved hands, and an exhaust vent is provided across the back, while two chest pockets double as additional vents. There are two waterproof pockets at the waist plus a large rear pocket with zipper closure. The Hornet II comes in sizes SM-5XL, priced at £189.99.

With its quilted outer construction, the ASCOT looks like a ladies fashion jacket on the outside, but on the inside there is removable CE approved armour at shoulders, elbow and back as well as a detachable 80-gram quilted lining with sumptuous fleece backing, making this a practical and stylish riding jacket. Reliable YKK gold-coloured zippers feature throughout the ASCOT, which also has three external and two internal pockets. Available in sizes 8-18 in black, the ASCOT costs £149.99.

Also new for 2014, SHARK WP gloves combine sport specification with McTex waterproof, windproof and breathable lining and the patented McFit technology fixture system that secures the inner lining without stitching so it won’t twist uncomfortably or pull free. Made from full grain leather, the SHARK WP gloves have the Knox SPS scaphoid protection system on the palms and integrated TPU reinforcement over the knuckles and fingers. A leather ‘bridge’ connects the ring and little fingers to prevent them bending apart in an accident, while stretch panels to base of thumb and top of hand aid fit and flexibility. The gloves are held securely in place by an adjustable Velcro® retained strap on the wrist and cuff. Available in sizes Sm-3XL at £109.99.

For details of Weise stockists visit www.thekeycollection.co.uk or call 0117 971 9200.

Batteries, Battery Chargers, OptiMate

OptiMate 5 VoltMatic recovers both 6 and 12 volt batteries

OptiMate™ 5 Voltmatic is the first ever charger capable of automatically recovering 6V lead-acid batteries from deep discharge.

Light [600 grammes] and compact, the OptiMate 5 VoltMatic will also charge and maintain medium to large 12V batteries [from 8Ah to 120Ah] making it suitable for motorcycles, motor boats and motor homes, as well as most cars and vans.

OptiMate 5 VoltMatic retains the fully automatic, 100% safe and easy-to-use characteristics of the 2 million OptiMates produced since 1995. Capable of recovering batteries retaining as little as 1 volt, OptiMate 5 identifies whether a battery is 6V or 12V and then runs a series of tests to see whether it requires desulphation or bulk charge. It then delivers charge in controlled pulses that equalise the voltage in each of the battery cells and checks that charge is being retained, before indicating that the battery has reached full charge.

Unlike other smart chargers, OptiMate has a unique 30 minute charge/30 minute rest cycle, during every hour of long-term maintenance charge, so it can be left connected to the battery while the vehicle is parked without any risk of overcharging or overheating.

In a weatherproof sealed enclosure with 2 metre long input and output cables, the OptiMate 5 is supplied with both a permanent ringlet connection lead that has a weatherproof cap and battery ‘crocodile’ clips for bench charging.

Compatible with STD lead-acid batteries (with removable filler caps), sealed AGM ‘maintenance free’, GEL and spiral cell types too, OptiMate 5 VoltMatic retails for £77.50 including VAT. For information on the complete range of OptiMate battery optimisers and accessories visit www.tecmate-int.com.

Batteries

Datatool – Smart Charger

Now available from Datatool, the new Smart Charger is the only intelligent charger on the market with an inbuilt hanging hook. No longer do you have to leave chargers laying on the workshop or garage floor, instead take advantage of the unique design to hang Smart Charger safely and visibly from the handlebars. When Smart Charger is not in use, the hook folds conveniently away into the rear of the unit.

The Datatool Smart Charger has been designed in the UK and offers the full range of recovery, charge and maintenance modes, all clearly identified by the rotary design LED indicators.

Datatool’s specialist motorcycle battery conditioner systems are designed to keep your motorcycle battery in its optimum state, especially during long periods of inactivity or cold weather conditions. A must for all motorcycle owners that can even pay for itself by saving the life of your motorcycle battery.

Protect your battery by installing the premium brand battery conditioner.

The full feature set includes:

· Designed for motorcycles
· Fold out convenience hook
· 1.2 amp charge rate
· Sulphation diagnostics
· Ability to recover discharged batteries
· Assured full charge
· Internal battery problem indicator
· Automatic and continual rechecking
· Automatic restart of charging cycle
· Month after month maintenance
· Suitable for 2-50 AH batteries

RRP of £49.99

www.datatool.co.uk

t: 01257 249 928

Autosport International, Shows and Events

Motorsport World Heading to Birmingham

Leading motorsport and performance engineering companies from over 20 different countries will converge on Birmingham this week, to start the new motorsport season at Autosport International.

Europe’s largest dedicated motorsport trade show will host approximately 600 companies displaying the latest technology at Birmingham’s NEC on 9-12 January, with the opening two days solely for industry attendees.

Led by 21 exhibitors crossing the Atlantic from the USA and groups exceeding a dozen from both Germany and Italy, almost 100 international exhibitors are expected at the show from 22 different nations, including Australia, China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, New Zealand and Taiwan beyond Europe.

The group features industry leaders such as Aurora Bearing Company, AVL Schrick GmbH, Brembo S.p.A., Injen Technology, Koni, M.E.RIN Safety Fuel Tanks, Öhlins Racing AB, Sadev and the Swedish Motorsport Industry.

Continuing the international theme, over 60 nations were represented in the audience of 28,000 motorsport professionals at Autosport International 2013, as a show record £1.07 billion worth of new business was generated within the sector.

The jet-setters will join the revered UK motorsport sector, which creates £6 billion in global sales annually, with Motorsport Valley home to over 3,500 companies and 40,000 jobs, including eight of the 11 teams in Formula One.

Among the new projects on show, local motorsport preparation company JRM will unveil a brand new rally car programme on Thursday 9 January, signalling the start of a manufacturer partnership, with a former World Rally Champion to spearhead the testing and development process.

The Daventry-firm will also take the covers off its 2014 specification Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3 racer, the successor to the V6-powered sports car that won the Pro-AM category in the 2013 Blancpain Endurance Series.

Another local manufacturer, Trident Sportscars is launching its new Iceni GT3 and GT4 race cars, delivering GT performance and a zero carbon footprint.

The Iceni is powered by a 6.6-litre, turbo diesel V8 engine producing up to 660bhp and 1,050lbs of torque to cover 0-60mph in 3.2 seconds, and is set to compete in GT Cup and Britcar events in the UK, and international long-distance races on diesel or biodiesel fuel. Road versions run on 100% biodiesel fuel, achieving 68mpg at 70mph, and a range of 2,000 miles.

The show will also feature the launch of the new lightweight Zenos E10 sports car, the new venture for former Caterham Cars CEO Ansar Ali and COO Mark Edwards, and the road-going Sin R1 supercar.

“It’s always exciting to walk around Autosport International and see so much new technology on display, ranging from individual components to complete race car projects,” said Ian France, Autosport International Show Director.

“A lot of that comes from Motorsport Valley and the buoyant British motorsport industry, but having such a large and diverse range of international exhibitors at the show is fantastic. Not only does it provide a great opportunity for our local sector to expand their networks and view the latest technology from around the world, but also highlights the standing in which the industry is held globally.”

Autosport International forms part of International Motorsport Business Week (IMBW), a unique schedule of conferences, symposiums and networking opportunities for leading engineers and decision makers between 6-12 January.

Speakers for 2014 IMBW events include Ulrich Baretzky (Audi Sport, Head of Engine Technology), John Iley (Caterham F1 Team, Performance Director), Bernard Niclot (FIA Technical Director), Pat Symonds (Williams F1, Chief Technical Officer) and Charlie Whiting (Formula One Race Director).

Trade registration for Autosport International 2014 is available from £26 and discounts available for group bookings. To register call +44 (0)845 218 6012, or visit www.autosportinternational.com.

Classic MotorCycle Show, Shows and Events

Classic Bike Show Delivers a Happy New Year

The year’s classic motorcycling calendar is now underway in style as a 12 time British champion and legend of the race track regaled showgoers with his tales of past glory at the Carole Nash Classic Bike Guide Winter Classic.

Thousands of enthusiasts sheltered from the cold in the packed halls at Newark Showground on January 4-5, where they surveyed the rows of stunning classics and the array of trade and autojumble stands.

But it was 1980s race ace Roger Marshall who stole the show, as crowds gathered to listen to his entertaining and revealing on stage interviews with former TT winner Steve Plater.

“There were plenty of people who gathered around the main stage to hear Roger’s Q&A and they certainly weren’t disappointed,” said exhibition manager Nick Mowbray.

“He shared memories and moments, both high and low, from a successful and storied career, as well as recounting meetings and battles with iconic names such as Joey Dunlop and Wayne Gardner.”

Malcolm Wheeler, current editor of Classic Racer magazine and a fellow 1980s competitor, also took part in some of the on stage activities: “Roger was on top form up there and shared some highly entertaining episodes from a clearly eventful life and career,” said Malcolm.

“It was also great to talk to him about the rich history and promising future of racing in the East Midlands – fuelled by Cadwell Park – and his current involvement as a judicial steward in BSB.”

The former factory Honda and Suzuki rider was also on hand to give out the show’s awards – presented to the best in restorations, displays and club stands.

Graham Holloway’s 1955 650 Triumph T110 was selected as Best In Show, Tony Cookson’s 1956 750 Triton Cafe Racer picked up Best Restoration and Garry Kendrick’s 1978 900 Ducati MHR was chosen as the show’s premier private entry.

Along with the classic motorcycle sections of the show, the Scooter World Hall was back by popular demand – a dedicated area that showcased the best in UK scooter clubs and private entries.

Scooter sport celebrities John and Norman Ronald were there for a Q&A session with Classic Scooterist editor, Mau Spencer.

The Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance even dropped in on proceedings to collect funds raised by organising team Classic Bike Shows at a special auction at Newark Showground in June.

With 2014 marking the event’s third year, the Carole Nash Classic Bike Guide Winter Classic has firmly established itself as the top classic motorcycling event in the region and looks set to carry on a tradition of being the classic calendar curtain raiser for years to come.

*Photo credit: Joe Dick

Peugeot

Peugeot Django: four styles for 2014

Peugeot will bring four models of its neo-retro Django scooter to the UK in 2014, all powered by a modern 125cc 4-stroke motor.  Inspired by Peugeot’s S55 scooter of 1953, the Django has rounded rear wings punctuated by three air intakes and long flowing bodywork, reminiscent of the saloon cars of the Fifties. It is also packed with modern technology, such as 200mm diameter disc brakes front and rear, linked by Synchro Braking Control (SBC), which distributes braking effort simultaneously to both wheels. LED lighting is used for front and rear indicators and rear light, as well as running lights in the front grille.  Details of availability and prices will be published on www.peugeotscooters.co.uk in the near future.

Heritage; available in four classic colour options – Black, White and pastel shades of Green and Blue. With white wheels and round chrome mirrors too, this is the purist heritage choice. Click on image for print quality version

Sport; produced in two colours – Silver Satin and French blue – with grey wheel rims and sport number stickers. Sport dual seat has removable passenger seat shell and chrome hand-grip. Click on image for print quality version.

Evasion; in two-tone Pistachio, Dragon Red, Rocky Blue or Vitamin Orange, with white wheel rims and white-wall tyres. Painted rear-view mirrors have a chrome surround. Fly screen and chrome front luggage rack are standard equipment. Click on image for print quality version.

Allure – range-topping model, with two-tone bodywork in choice of Blackcurrant, Satin Silver, Icy White or Chocolate. Grey wheel rims, white-wall tyres and three-tone dual seat. Painted mirrors with chrome surround. Fly screen, colour-match top-case, passenger back-rest and chrome rear luggage rack as standard equipment

Knox

Knox Handroid Gloves Now CE Approved

Knox Handroid, has achieved full CE approval for 2014.  Independently tested and certified to the latest European standard prEN13594 2012 [“Protective gloves for motorcycle riders”], the Handroid is one of only a handful of gloves the meet the rigorous demands. To make the grade, Handroid had to pass no less than 15 different tests, including;

> Abrasion resistance
> Cut resistance
> Tear strength
> Seam strength
> Impact resistance
> Gloves are also tested for dexterity, to ensure that the rider can still operate controls easily while wearing them, as well as restraint, so they won’t fly off in an accident. Made from Japanese race leather, with Kangaroo palms and the additional benefit of Knox SPS ‘sliders’, both the Handroid and short-cuff Handroid Pod passed all tests with flying colours.

“There are many gloves appearing with CE labels, but hardly any that meet the toughest standard for motorcycle riders. Being approved to EN13594 proves that Handroid not only have the most advanced specification, but also offer real protection too” says Knox founder Geoff Travell.

Handroid are available in Black, Black/White or White/Black Sizes S-XXL, at a retail price of RRP of £169.99 including VAT.  Call 01900 825825 or visit www.knox–amour.co.uk for details.

Notes:
i. Knox Scaphoid Protection System (SPS) is Patent protected under EU registered Patent No:EP1594378
ii. The new version of prEN 13594:2012 will replace the original EN 13594:2002 and widens its application to include not only gloves for professional use, but also all those used in motorcycle sports

Autosport International, Shows and Events

Title-Winning Ferrari To Headline Surtees Display

An amazing collection of race cars and motorcycles will form a tribute to John Surtees’ life in motorsport at Autosport International next weekend, marking the start of 50th anniversary celebrations of the British legend’s 1964 Formula One World Championship.

After taking seven motorcycle Road Racing World Championships, Surtees became the first man to win world championships on both two and four wheels when he secured the 1964 title with Ferrari. It’s an accolade Surtees still holds today, and he’s also the last Brit to have won an F1 crown with the iconic Italian manufacturer.

With Surtees to headline the list of motorsport stars attending the show, at Birmingham’s NEC on 9-12 January, his title-winning Ferrari 158 leads the special display.

Taken to victory by Surtees in the Italian Grand Prix at Monza and the German Grand Prix at the Nürburgring, the 158 is powered by a lightweight 90-degree, 1.5-litre V8 engine, and is set for a rare appearance outside of the USA where it is part of a dedicated Surtees section in the George Barber Museum at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama.

“I’ve got very fond memories of the 1964 season with Ferrari, and seeing my 158 from that year is always a special occasion. I’m looking forward to having it alongside many of my other race cars and bikes at Autosport International, and sharing stories about the entire collection with fans of the sport,” said John Surtees.

Accompanying the display, the Henry Surtees Foundation will have a presence at the show. Founded after the tragic death of his son Henry in an accident in 2009, the charity assists those who have sustained injuries in accidents and provides education, training and road safety instruction for two and four wheels.

“With 2014 marking 50 years since John Surtees secured the Formula One World Championship with Ferrari, we’re honoured to be hosting John and a collection of his race cars and bikes at Autosport International,” said Ian France, Autosport International Show Director.

“Spanning motorcycles from his formative racing days as a teenager to his title-winning Ferrari 158 and cars from John’s time as an owner with Team Surtees, it’s a special collection of motorsport history.”

A World Champion on two wheels but with only four car races to his name, Surtees made his Formula One debut at the Monaco Grand Prix in 1960 at the invitation of the legendary Colin Chapman. The Lotus 18 he used that weekend, and to subsequently finish second in his next race, the British Grand Prix, will also appear.

A remarkable career includes Surtees’ position as one of the few drivers to have also formed and raced for their own Formula One team. Surtees Racing Organisation will be represented by the TS7, its first F1 car from 1970, and the Formula 2 TS10 and TS15, along with the Lola T70 sports car he drove to win the inaugural Can-Am Series in North America in 1966.

A similarly diverse line-up documents Surtees’ time on two wheels, during which he claimed seven Road Racing World Championship Grand Prix titles.

His very first motorcycle at 15 years of age, a 1939 250ccTriumph Tiger 70 is joined by the 1949 500cc Vincent Grey Flash on which he won his first race at Aberdare Park in Wales. Works Norton and BMW Rennsport bikes will also be on display, along with the manufacturer Surtees enjoyed incredible success with, MV Agusta.

Surtees claimed six titles with the Italian brand across 350cc and 500cc competition between 1958 and 1960, and the 1960 Type 500cc MV Agusta from his final season of motorcycle racing rounds out the display.

Other Autosport International displays will feature contemporary Formula One machinery on the F1 Racing Grid and showcases of the Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship and Wales Rally GB.

Surtees will be joined at the show by the likes of ex-racer and Sky Sports F1 commentator Martin Brundle, current F1 driver Adrian Sutil, 2013 Le Mans winners and sports car racing legends Tom Kristensen and Allan McNish and BTCC Champions Andrew Jordan, Matt Neal and Gordon Shedden.

Attended by almost 80,000 people in 2013, Autosport International 2014 will host every level of motorsport, while the Performance Car Show in association with Autocar and PistonHeads.com will feature supercars and the latest high-performance models under the same roof.

Adult tickets are now available from £31 and children’s tickets from £20. For more information about the show, visit www.autosportinternational.com.

Electric Motorcycles

Brammo Introduces Retail Incentives as Federal Tax Credit for Two Wheel Electric Vehicles Expires

Brammo Introduces Retail Incentives as Federal Tax Credit for Two Wheel Electric Vehicles Expires.

Brammo, Inc., a leading developer of electric vehicle technology and manufacturer of electric vehicles, announces a $2000 retail incentive on the 2013 Brammo Empulse and a $1000 retail incentive on the 2013 Enertia Plus.

These incentives will ensure that those riders who want to purchase a model year 2013 Brammo don’t see the after tax cost increase by 10% simply because the Federal Tax Incentive has now expired.

This time last year, U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Congressman Greg Walden (R-Ore.), and U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) successfully sought an extension of the Federal Tax Credit for two wheel electric vehicles for 2012 and 2013. That extension has now expired.

Brammo continues to lobby for an extension of the Federal Tax Credit for two wheel vehicles. Craig Bramscher, CEO and Founder of Brammo said, “It is widely accepted that Federal Incentives will help kick start the EV industry.  Four wheel EVs, from the Tesla S to the Smart Car, receive a $7500 Federal Tax Credit. Our customers and dealers believe that a 10% incentive on two wheel EV’s will provide benefits ranging from decreased dependence on fossil fuels to a cleaner environment, and we agree.”

About Brammo

Brammo Inc. is a leading electric vehicle technology company headquartered in North America. Brammo designs and develops electric vehicles including the award winning Enertia and Empulse motorcycles. Brammo are the 2013 North America, FIM eRR World Cup Champions. Brammo is an OEM supplier of its innovative Brammo Digital Drivetrain systems including the Brammo Power battery pack and Brammo Power vehicle management system. Brammo has vehicle distribution and marketing operations in North
America, Europe and Asia.

To learn more, visit www.Brammo.com

Designed and assembled in Oregon USA and contains many US components.
Photo: This cutaway Empulse will be on display in the Texas Instruments Village at CES in Las Vegas.

Motorcycle Industry News and Images mainly from UK

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