Bench Racing & The Morning Reads

[mika]

Triples everywhere and they werenÔÇÖt even playing baseball in Estoril.

Fiat Yamaha Team scored a triple by securing the Rider, Manufacturer and Team Championships this weekend and in the process hit another triple being the first team to do it three times. To do this Lorenzo took his eight win of the season and Rossi took second. Repsol Honda took the third step on the podium but with Andrea Dovizioso this time, snatching the spot away from Simoncelli on his Honda.

Hayden salvaged a tough weekend for Ducati taking fifth while Stoner lost the front end and was out of the race after 24 laps.

Forum fav Speis was unable to start the race after injuring himself on the way to the grid. Colin Edwards managed a 7th place on the other Team Yamha Tech 3 bike. Speis will head to Spain for an MRI to see if he will be able to compete in Valencia next weekend.


1 25 99 Jorge LORENZO
SPA Fiat Yamaha Team Yamaha 151.7 46'17.962

2 20 46 Valentino ROSSI
ITA Fiat Yamaha Team Yamaha 151.3 +8.629

3 16 4 Andrea DOVIZIOSO
ITA Repsol Honda Team Honda 150.3 +26.475

4 13 58 Marco SIMONCELLI
ITA San Carlo Honda Gresini Honda 150.3 +26.534

5 11 69 Nicky HAYDEN
USA Ducati Team Ducati 150.3 +27.154

6 10 14 Randy DE PUNIET
FRA LCR Honda MotoGP Honda 150.2 +28.297

7 9 5 Colin EDWARDS
USA Monster Yamaha Tech 3 Yamaha 150.1 +30.109

8 8 26 Dani PEDROSA
SPA Repsol Honda Team Honda 149.3 +44.947

9 7 33 Marco MELANDRI
ITA San Carlo Honda Gresini Honda 147.8 +1'13.649

10 6 40 Hector BARBERA
SPA Paginas Amarillas Aspar Ducati 147.6 +1'17.721

11 5 19 Alvaro BAUTISTA
SPA Rizla Suzuki MotoGP Suzuki 147.6 +1'17.908

12 4 7 Hiroshi AOYAMA
JPN Interwetten Honda MotoGP Honda 146.8 +1'33.025

13 3 65 Loris CAPIROSSI
ITA Rizla Suzuki MotoGP Suzuki 146.5 +1'39.752

Not Classified
71 Carlos CHECA
SPA Pramac Racing Team Ducati 144.9 15 Laps
27 Casey STONER
AUS Ducati Team Ducati 147.0 24 Laps

Not Starting
41 Aleix ESPARGARO
SPA Pramac Racing Team Ducati 0 Lap
11 Ben SPIES
USA Monster Yamaha Tech 3 Yamaha 0 Lap


The season closes next weekend at Valencia.

[mika]

Members with Birthdays Today

MotoGP

motogp.com: Spies focused on vlencia return despite ankle dislocation

roadracerx.com: Team Speak ÔÇô Estoril MotoGP

eurosport.com: What StonerÔÇÖs crash means for Rossi

2011 down 1 ÔÇô motomatters.com: Interwetten Honda MotoGP withdrawal confirmed


Other Racing

BMW-Motorrad.co.za: A first class finish
Colorado-based rider Gerry Signorelli may have discovered racing a little later than his competitors, but after his debut season with the BMW S 1000 RR, he is more than making up for lost time. In October 2010, his Racing for a Wish team celebrated winning the ÔÇÿMasters of the Mountain RegionÔÇÖ in the US, and was champion in the Open Superstock, Open Superbike and ÔÇÿKing of the Mountain GTOÔÇÖ classes. more

On the Street

Ducati Diavel: Built to have a commanding presence, though lightweight and agile like all Ducatis, the Diavel will take the man-motorcycle relationship to the next level in absolute comfort.


Staying in Italy but moving from power cruising to sport bikes

2011 MV Agusta F3 ÔÇô official picture compilation


MotoUSA tire review ÔÇô Metzeler Sprtec M5 Interact



Woot of the Day

FWIW


From: BiksSportNews.com
By David Miller


BMW's Leon Haslam has said the power delivery on his new BMW World Superbike is brutal compared to the Alstare Suzuki he rode for the 2010 season and getting to grips with the amount of electronic help available is his biggest task.

Haslam, who finished runner-up to Max Biaggi in the championship this year, said he struggled with set-up on the bike for the first two days' testing at Motorland Aragon but changes to the front end saw him drop a second off his laptimes on day three.

"It's pretty brutal and aggressive compared to the Suzuki. But the electronics are there to help and I am going to have to use them a lot more than I did this year. It's a hell of a bike, to be fair, and there's a lot of potential in it," said Haslam, speaking to bikesportnews.com this afternoon.

"We seemed to spend a lot of time in and out of the pits for the first two days at Aragon, and the tyres were getting ripped by the abrasive surface, but we found something on the third day and I went a second a lap faster so we were on a par with everyone else, give or take."



Bike Candy

Via: motorcyclecannonball.com

The #2 Motorcycle Cannonball Rider Erik Dunk on his 1915 Harley Davidson on day 11, Monday, Sept 20, 2010 near High Plains New Mexico. 1955 Panhead rider is Carl Olsen

[mika]

Speech of Hendrik von Kuenheim, General Director BMW Motorrad at the EICMA 2010.
ÔÇó 02.11.2010
ÔÇó Discurso

Ladies and gentlemen,
Dear motorcycle friends,

A very warm welcome also from my side to BMW Motorrad and Husqvarna Motorcycles at the EICMA.

We can look back at a very exciting motorcycle season 2010.

Together with our customers and friends, we celebrated 30 years of GS, 10 years of BMW Motorrad Days, the first pole position and podium placements in the Superbike World Championship, a confident title win in the Superstock World
Championship by Ayrton Badovini of Team BMW Motorcycle Italy, the title win in the Enduro World Championship Class 1 by Antoine Meo of our Husqvarna Factory Team and lots of other international and national motorsports successes in both on-road and off-road sport.

What is more, teams from 10 nations will be starting this month in South Africa and will be competing in the international "BMW Motorcycle GS TrophyÔÇ£.
This tough event, similar to a rally, will be a major challenge for both riders and motorcycles and, for us, it will be the final highlight of the 30-year celebrations for BMW's most successful motorcycle.

And after the INTERMOT in Cologne, the EICMA here in Milan is a further highlight in this season which has been a very successful one for us. We enjoy coming here again each year to present new motorcycles.

In a time in which the motorcycle market worldwide is greatly in decline we continue to expand. BMW Motorrad and Husqvarna Motorcycles are investing above average in new products and the future.

And so we are in the fortunate situation that we do not have to focus with our premieres on only one of the two large motorcycle trade fairs of the year.

Just a few weeks after the world premiere of BMW's first six-cylinder motorcycles, we are able to present to you, once again, some new BMWs and Husqvarnas.

Of course, our luxury and innovative six-cylinder touring bikes are the focus of our trade-fair presentation here as well. The K 1600 GT and the K 1600 GTL are symbols for the start of another model offensive for BMW Motorrad.

This year the market has well rewarded us for our offensive product strategy:
As of September, BMW Motorrad sales have exceeded those of 2009 by 17 %. To date we have delivered over 81,500 motorcycles to our customers worldwide. This means almost 12,000 units more than last year.

Never before have we sold more motorcycles in a September than in September 2010.

And initial projections for October indicate another clear growth as compared to October 2009.

BMW Motorrad is able to clearly expand its market share in a very difficult market environment:

For example, our market share in Italy increased from 13, 8% in 2009 to 18.2 % to 2010. This means that, currently, every one in five new motorcycles over 500 cc sold in Italy is a BMW. Our market share was 8.2 % 10 years ago ÔÇô really a striking trend!

And Italy's top-selling motorcycle over 500 cc is the BMW GS.

Our market shares are 20 % or more in Germany, Spain, Belgium and the Netherlands as well. South Africa leads the way. BMW Motorrad currently has an almost 40 % share of the market there.

This market performance shows that success can be achieved even in difficult times if you act proactively and if you continually invest in your products and your future.

Ladies and Gentlemen, so that is why we are able to present to you today besides the two six-cylinder touring bikes no less than four new BMWs and three new Husqvarnas.

The new entry-level model from BMW Motorrad is the G 650 GS. We have revised the small GS radically for the large-displacement single-cylinder market - a market that is still rather important. In a new, attractive enduro design, the G 650 GS continues the success story of BMW's single-cylinder bikes.

This evergreen of BMW's range offers not only a powerful, economical engine but also extensive optional extras. For instance, in comparison with its direct competition, it is the only bike available with ABS.

With BMW's typical standard of safety, versatility and comfort, this motorcycle allows a broad range of uses from everyday riding through to long distance bike travelling at a very attractive price-performance ratio.

Ladies and Gentlemen, at the EICMA it has almost become a matter of course that we present something new in relation to the BMW Boxer engine. The DOHC Boxer engine which we first presented here in 2009 is now also available on the new R 1200 R.

Even before this, the R 1200 R was considered to be one of the best all-round bikes on the market. For instance, it won the tough, international ÔÇ£AlpenmastersÔÇØ comparison test twice. With its new engine and some other modifications it has now added to its repertoire even better dynamics, ridability and emotionalit.
In conjunction with the technical modifications we have updated the design and greatly boosted the quality rating of the Boxer roadster.

Moreover, since the market for naked bikes has shifted increasingly towards two sub-segments in recent years, we are now, for the first time, offering two different roadster variants.

The puristic color and equipment concept of the basic version of the R 1200 R specifically meets customer wishes for an ultra-modern and sporty-dynamic naked bike.

By contrast, the R 1200 R Classic with its exclusive features and the traditional color concept in black and white is targeted fully at fans of up-market classic roadsters.

These new Boxer models, the single-cylinder GS and the K 1600 six-cylinder touring bikes are to be launched on the market in spring 2011.

Earlier than this, we will fulfill the wishes of many GS customers for a virtually entirely black R 1200 GS. The world's top-selling motorcycle can be ordered as "Triple Black" special model already now and is to be delivered as of January.

Apart from the standard spoked wheels, the "Triple Black" technically corresponds to the R 1200 GS. Its exclusive color scheme serves to emphasise the masculine touch of this large touring enduro.

So much for the new BMW production models in brief.

Ladies and Gentlemen,
in 2008 and 2009, BMW Motorrad presented a big surprise at the EICMA. That will be the case this year as well. But before I reveal more about this to you, I'd first like to call upon Klaus Allisat to speak.

Since September this year, Klaus Allisat has headed Husqvarna Motorcycles. He will now present the new products from our small but topnotch motorcycle brand from Northern Italy.

Mr. Allisat, you didn't have far to come here today from Lake Varese. It's not very difficult to see that the cover here conceals a surprise. What have you brought with you for our guests?

Thank you very much Mr. Allisat!
Ladies and Gentlemen, this highly emotional study from Husqvarna is still a vision, but it shows that Husqvarna can do far more than develop excellent off-road motorcycles.

In the years to come, we want to substantially boost sales of BMW Motorrad and Husqvarna Motorcycles. In this, our aim is not growth at any price but profitable, sustained growth.

With this in mind, we are considering what other business segments could be suitable over and above the existing product portfolio of both brands.

We shall be positioning ourselves on a broader basis and will be entering market segments in which BMW Motorrad or Husqvarna were not active to date. In this way, we will be appealing to customers who have not considered our brands beforehand.

The best example of this is our S 1000 RR - the shooting star of this season. With the Double R, BMW Motorrad has managed at first go to conquer second place in the segment of super sports bikes. And it is well on the way to becoming the world's top-selling super sports bike worldwide.

But today ÔÇô Ladies and Gentlemen - is the day on which we announce the entry into a completely different market.

Individual mobility has changed greatly in recent years, specifically in congested urban areas. Available road space has not been able to keep pace with the risen passenger-car traffic during this process.

This trend is continuing and is creating new opportunities for powered two wheelers. Against this backdrop, we intend to expand our range of products again:

BMW Motorrad enters the Big Scooter market!

At first, we shall offer two innovative premium scooters with internal-combustion engine. With regard to their individual concept they will differ from each other so greatly that we will be able to appeal to a broad group of customers.

Moreover, we have in mind a particularly low-emission drive system with electric motor for the future.

The BMW Scooters will unite the excellent riding characteristics of the motorcycle and the special agility and conceptual comfort of the scooter ÔÇô Big Scooters "Made by BMW Motorrad".

With the ÔÇ£BMW Motorrad Concept CÔÇØ we are giving you today a first concrete outlook on this new, outstanding generation of Big Scooters. The "C" stands for "Commuter" and indicates the primary field of use in urban areas.

Ladies and Gentlemen,
David Robb and his design team created the innovative and ÔÇô in my opinion ÔÇô outstanding and very emotional design of the Concept C.

David, may I now ask you to explain a few essential aspects of the new scooter design from BMW Motorrad.




BMW Concept C. The scooter of the future made by BMW Motorrad.

ÔÇó 02.11.2010
ÔÇó Press Kit

Munich. Recent years have seen radical changes in the world of individual mobility, specifically in the conurbations, and the number of registrations has rocketed for virtually all individual transport concepts. However, the space available to traffic has not grown to the same extent, so individual mobility must come to terms with the new circumstances.

Against this background, BMW Motorrad will be expanding its present motorcycle adventure world to include the big scooter. This new product segment will first give rise to two innovative premium scooters with internal combustion engines. The differing characteristics of this concept will appeal to a broad target group. In addition, some thought is being given to a future alternative drive with electric motor.

BMW Motorrad will be combining in these scooters the outstanding handling of the motorcycle with the particular agility and conceptual comfort of the scooter for the maximum experience of dynamic riding ÔÇô a big scooter made by
BMW Motorrad. There are plans to manufacture these future production vehicles at the BMW Motorrad plant in Berlin.

BMW Motorrad is continuing its strategy of strong and sustainable growth and so will be intensifying its traditional work in the enduro, touring, and sport touring fields. Following its successful entry to the super sport segment, BMW Motorrad will now be expanding its range yet again to include a highly promising business line.

This path leads straight to the big scooter segment. These high displacement vehicles with dynamic handling characteristics have gained considerable popularity all over the world. Moreover, they present an interesting alternative to returnees who up to now were undecided about motorcycles after long periods of abstinence.

BMW Concept C. New dimension in the field of big scooters.

New ideas and concepts on the subject of two-wheeled mobility are a decades old tradition at BMW Motorrad. Countless times, concept studies and drafts have been presented that reflect the power of innovation and future orientation of BMW Motorrad.

With its Concept C study, BMW Motorrad is yet again embarking on a new path and demonstrating a fascinating mobility option for the future. Here, C stands for ÔÇ£commuterÔÇØ. Particularly in view of the traffic development in urban areas, it presents the prospect of an innovative, sporty big scooter for the future premium segment.

As usual at BMW Motorrad, there is more to this study than just an attempt to present a big scooter for the highest demands. Rather, the designers and engineers of BMW Motorrad focused above all on the emotive component in addition to the technical function and quality ÔÇô and the thrill from the very first moment on.

BMW Concept C. Emotion, dynamic handling, and function in the design.
When unveiling its Concept C at EICMA in Milan, BMW Motorrad will be directing the maximum possible emotion to its interpretation of this subject, which will bear witness to the primary claims of maximum, all round functionality.

Concept C as a vision of the big scooter is immediately recognisable as a member of the BMW Motorrad family. For instance, it also presents the so-called ÔÇ£split faceÔÇØ, a visual tripartite of dynamic response extending from the front silhouette to the front wheel cover and beyond. In the style of highly sporty
BMW Motorrad models, such as the S 1000 RR, Concept C also features a twin-tipped front spoiler.

Unlike the L shaped side view presented up to now by big scooters, with their predominantly vertical body lines and colour scheme, Concept C has ventured on a new, much more sporty and dynamic path. The body lines sweeping up to the vehicleÔÇÖs rear underscore this big scooterÔÇÖs active riding character. The high rear section emphasises the lightness and agility of Concept C's powerful two-cylinder engine. Sportiness and dynamism are also underscored by the close cut, speeder-style windscreen.

The functional side of this scooter is expressed in stylish design elements, such as the aluminium look of the bash plates with the air intake adopted from the BMW GS.

The black chromium of the suspension and frame parts form a thrilling, dynamic relationship with the aluminium chromium, silver, and blue paintwork of the body parts. In addition, the black satin sections present a high-contrast emphasis on the vehicleÔÇÖs central area. This highly technical and high-quality elegance is borne further by finely worked details, such as the fuel tank cover reminiscent of aircraft and the short, sporty muffler. The visionary facet of Concept C is presented by the tyres with flanks and treads of blue.

BMW Concept C. Pioneering technology that fuels enthusiasm.
Concept C presents unusual and innovative solutions that offer a wide prospect of what in future can become reality in this segment.

For instance, Concept C features a highly complex monolever mechanism with hollowed-out shaft connected to a suspension strut visible from the outside. In this study, front-wheel control takes the form of an upside down fork.
The stable twin disc brake at the front features two radial brake callipers that also underscore the dynamic sportiness of Concept C. In addition, the single disc brake at the rear and the BMW Motorrad ABS provide the maximum possible safety during braking manoeuvres.

The dynamic and equally comfortable driving force behind Concept C is provided by a new, two-cylinder inline engine in conjunction with CVT (continuously variable transmission). Engine power, torque, and therefore performance will be moving towards the top of the segment.

Light is cast on a more distant point in the future by the LED headlamp integrated into the face panelling. This future vision is also continued by the deliberate absence of conventional rear view mirrors, which will be replaced in Concept C with two video cameras in the rear. These record the area behind the vehicle and transfer the images to two LCD monitors in the cockpit within view of the rider. The road speed, engine speed, and other data appear on a third LCD display integrated at the centre of the cockpit.

BMW Concept C. Perfected rider equipment and stowage space concept.
Concept C also testifies to thoughts and ideas extending beyond the actual vehicle. In line with the BMW Motorrad philosophy, a big scooter realised in the Concept C style will also come with a range of adequate rider equipment. In the best BMW Motorrad tradition, the development of a big scooter will also include a suitable stowage space concept.

[mika]

[mika]

[mika]

Members with Birthdays Today

WSBK et al.

worldsbk.com: Fabrizio fired up by Aragon tests

worlsbk.com: New Ninja ZX-10R makes impressive progress


MotoGP

motogp.com: Season finale in Valencia

bbc.co.uk: Ben Spies aims to ride in Valencia despite ankle injury

roadracerx.com: Valencia MotoGP preview

Formula 1

fia.com: Brazilian GP Preview

formula1.com: FIA official visits United States Grand Prix site

faz.net – In then out VW decides against entering Formula 1

Other Racing

fim-live.com: Women equal to the challenge of the ISDE

facebook.com: New top speed record of 203.62452mph set on the S1000RR at Maxton by KWS/Pit Bull



bmw-motorrad.co.za: Get your S 1000 RR track ready

bmw-motorsport.com: BMW to contest the 2010 intercontinental Le Mans Cup

On the Street



asphaltandrubber.com: Husqvarna mille 3 Concept





dealernews.com: Honda CB1000R naked sportbike to arrive in the spring

asphaltandrubber.com: 2011 Aprilia RS4 comes to America

solomoto.es: EICMA – Honda V4 Crosstourer Concept

2011 Honda CrossRunner official picture compilation


2011 Honda CrossTourer 1200 Concept official picture compilation


“Released to co-incide with the "Milan Show" launch of the new Tiger 800, 800XC and Daytona R, this is the extended version of our Brand Video. Containing previously unseen footage, this film shows the three new members of the Triumph family in all their glory”


roadracingworld.com: Harley-Davidson will assemble motorcycles from kits in India for the Indian market

The Mothership

Full: Statement by Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Conference Call Interim Report to 30 September 2010

Statement by Dr. Friedrich Eichiner, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Finance, Conference Call Interim Report to 30 September 2010
The Motorcycles Segment performed exceptionally well in a difficult market environment. We delivered around 24,500 BMW motorcycles to customers in the third quarter. Against the overall market trend, we increased sales by almost 8% from the same period last year.

In Europe alone, we increased sales by 18% in the first nine months of 2010. We are now the market leader in the key motorcycle markets of Germany, Italy and Spain in our relevant segment above 500 cc – as well as in Belgium, the Netherlands and Austria.

Between January and September we generated revenues of nearly 1.1 billion Euros in the Motorcycles Segment. The EBIT of 88 million Euros was 73% higher year-on-year.

Further details on our individual segments can be found in our quarterly report.
Quarterly report available for download here

Vehicle Make / Model: BMW / X5
Model Year(s): 2008

Manufacturer: BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC
Mfr's Report Date: OCT 26, 2010
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 10V518000 NHTSA Action Number: N/A


Component: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINEELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Potential Number of Units Affected: 20800
Summary:
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 X5 SAVs VEHICLES WITH 6-CYLINDER ENGINES MANUFACTURED FROM NOVEMBER 1, 2007 THROUGH AUGUST 31, 2008. DUE TO A MANUFACTURING PROCESS FAULT, THE FUEL PUMP WAS NOT PRODUCED TO SPECIFICATIONS. UNDER SPECIFIC VEHICLE OPERATING CONDITIONS, THE FUEL PUMP??S COMMUTATOR COULD EXPERIENCE AN INCREASE IN WEAR.
Consequence:
THIS WEAR COULD LEAD TO FUEL PUMP MALFUNCTION AND ENGINE STALLING. ENGINE STALLING COULD CREATE A POTENTIAL FOR A CRASH RESULTING IN INJURY OR DEATH.
Remedy:
THE MANUFACTURER HAS NOT YET PROVIDED A REMEDY OR AN OWNER NOTIFICATION SCHEDULE FOR THIS CAMPAIGN. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-525-7417.
Notes:
OWNERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV .





Woot of the Day


Bike Candy

[mika]

BMWÔÇÖs analysis of the world motorcycle market remains bleak. Their figures show the US market down a -14.1% year to date.

(pg. 5)

International motorcycle markets remain weak

The worldÔÇÖs motorcycle markets in the 500 cc plus class
relevant for the BMW Group were 11.1 % down on the previous
year for the nine-month period under report. In Europe
all markets contracted with the exception of Spain during
the period from January to September 2010. Sales volume
on the German market for 500 cc plus motorcycles fell
by 6.6 % during the nine months under report. Shortfalls
against the previous year were also recorded in Italy
(ÔÇô 13.4 %), France (ÔÇô 5.6 %) and Great Britain (ÔÇô 18.1 %).
Spain was the only market to show growth, rebounding
with an 18.0 % increase after the extremely steep slide recorded
one year earlier. The markets for 500 cc plus motorcycles also failed to recover in the USA (ÔÇô 14.1%) and Japan (ÔÇô 8.9 %) during the nine-month period.


However, despite the downward trend in market after market BMW is posting sales increases in these markets. In the US while the market is down -14.1% y-t-d BMWÔÇÖs sales are up +3.9% in the U.S.


(pg. 11)

Motorcycle sales volume up sharply

We sold 24,493 BMW motorcycles during the third quarter
2010, 7.7 % more than one year earlier. The number of
motorcycles sold during the period from January to September
2010 rose by 16.9 % to 81,508 units. With most
international motorcycle markets actually contracting, we
were therefore able to strengthen our competitive position
and are now market leaders in the 500 cc plus segment
in countries such as Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands,
Belgium, Austria and South Africa.

Our sales of motorcycles in Europe during the first nine
months of 2010 rose by 18.1 % to 57,846 units, with the
improvements in France (7,264 units / + 31.8 %) and Spain
(5,900 units / + 21.1 %) particularly strong. Sharp growth
was, however, also recorded in Germany (13,614 units /
+ 17.2 %), Italy (12,954 units / + 14.7 %) and Great Britain
(5,833 units / + 16.1 %).

The number of motorcycles sold in the USA from January
to September 2010 increased by 3.9 % to 7,850 units.
During the same period we sold 2,192 units in Japan
(+ 5.3 %). The number of motorcycles sold in Brazil doubled
to 2,368 units (+ 99.7 %).

Production Numbers

By now many readerÔÇÖs eyes have glazed over and they will overlook the following section. I think it is significant for what it tells us about the current status of BMW and is something to watch closely in the future as a barometer of health.

BMW is reporting an increase in production numbers.

The report quickly ties this to increases in demand; therefore, many will overlook this information. If you have followed Harley-Davidson the Big Four or any of the other struggling motorcycle companies you should be aware that for much of the year they have been dealing with carry over inventor v demand for 2010 units. This has put pressure on retail sales prices and in turn cut into resulting revenue. BMW appears to have managed its production volume in its downward cycle better and is reaping the benefits of that now.

In the long run the units delivered to customers v units produced will be an important gap to watch. BMW motorcycles, with rare exceptions, are not a riderÔÇÖs first new motorcycle. As a result the marque is dependent on the success of the manufacturers developing riders. Those numbers are declining world wide as measured by new motorcycle sales and new rider licenses. The challenge to BMW market and production managers from a shrinking pool of potential customers is exacerbated by the increasing numbers of manufacturers producing motorcycles in classes BWM has dominated such as the GS classes.

A mistake in judgment in managing the gap between motorcycles delivered and motorcycles produced could quickly put BMW in the situation others find themselves in now.

Motorcycle production raised

Third-quarter production of BMW motorcycles was increased
by 29.8 % to 20,311 units in line with growing demand.
Production for the nine-month period was raised by
25.1 % to 82,426 units.

The motorcycle segment of BMW has been able to turn the sales increase into an increase in revenues also. The figures and page 2 and 3 of the report show that for the quarter the motorcycle segment showed 0 profit before tax. BMW is not a non profit organization but for the quarter is happy when comparing this to a loss of approximately 5 million euro in the same quarter in 2009. On a y-t-d basis things are more profitable for investors. The segment shows a profit of 88 million euro, 37 million euro up over 2009ÔÇÖs figures.

Significant improvement in revenues and earnings of Motorcycle segment

Rising sales volume figures also had a positive impact on
revenues and earnings reported by the Motorcycle segment.
Third-quarter revenues grew by 21.8 % to euro 291
million, while revenues for the nine-month period climbed
by 25.0 % to euro 1,081 million. The segment EBIT was
euro 2 million (2009: negative EBIT of euro 3 million) for
the period from July to September and euro 88 million
(+ 72.5 %) from January to September. Profit before tax
also improved, rising by euro 5 million (2009: loss before
tax of euro 5 million) for the third quarter and to euro 83 million
(+ 84.4 %) for the nine-month period under report.
Workforce virtually unchanged

The BMW Group employed 2,895 people in the Motorcycles
segment at 30 September 2010, practically unchanged
from the same reporting date one year earlier
(ÔÇô 0.1 %).[/i]

What is Missing?

There are many numbers missing from this report. It is a financial report that focuses on revenues profits and key indicators that produce those numbers. Numbers that fascinate us and give sub-forums bragging rights such as production broken down by model, sales by model in various markets are missing. For those we either have to glean them form press releases put out by individual national BMW groups or wait for the annual report released in 2011.

As things stand now for investors in BMW things are looking good. Based on the report BMW has increased its earnings forecast and investors are anticipating recalculated dividends. For members of the BMW MOA/ BMW Motorrad owners the love hate relationship continues on much as before.


Disclaimer:
I am not a financial analyst. This articles analysis and a buck will still get you coffee and change at the Official Fly-Over-Land coffee shop and nothing more. .

[mika]

Members with Birthdays Today

WSBK et al.

ultimatemotorcycling.com: Liberty Racing Ducati in 2011 Superbike


MotoGP – writers for MotoGP sites must own shares in drapery companies or date interior designers, the curtain closer is the rampant phrase in every article I have read today. A few make it into this post.

nickyhayden.com: Valencia brings the curtain down on MotoGP season.

motogp.com: Yamaha announce factory team management changes
Announcing what we pretty much already knew. Now we will find out if the transition from WSBK to MotoGP is as hard for managers as it is for riders.

rizla-suzuki-motogp.co.uk: Rizla Suzuki head for the curtain closer in Spain

Formula 1

renaultf1.com: The Challenge of Interlagos

fia.com: World Motosport Council confirms the F1 (20 races) and other schedules for 2011.
Two races, China and India, have asterisks behind them. India is a new track and its spot on the calendar is subject to homologation as was Korea this year. China’s racing license expired. The 2011 race is subject to recertification which will require changes to track drainage and surface improvements.

supersport.com: Johnny Herbert will join the Brazil stewards

Other Racing

fim-live.com: 2010 FIM ISDE reaches mid-way stage

On the Street

An Indian take on Harley Davidson to set up assembly plant in Haryana from
Bikadvice.in

HFL: 2012 Yamaha Super Tenere – First Ride
With a –
HFL: Rebutal to Kevin Ash’s Super Tenere review

motorcyclistonline.com: Zeros at 13,000 feet

technologyreview.com: A step toward holographic videoconferencing

ultimatemotorcycling.com: Benelli Motorcycles 100th Birthday.

The Mothership

With the exception of Murder Incorporated I don’t know a business that wouldn’t want to let the world know that they had beaten the previous calendar year sales with two months to go in the current year.

BMW Motorrad achieves record year-to-date retails
BMW Motorrad Canada reported retails in October of 104 units,an increase of 26.8%over the same period in 2009. BMW Motorrad breaks through CY2009 total retails, with year-to-date sales of 1,865 units an increase of 7.9% over last year.
Woot of the Day


Bike Candy

Take a Suzuki 1500cc GSX engine and place it in a Norton Featherbed frame and you have the McCandless Special

[mika]

Members with Birthdays Today

MotoGP

bikesportnesws.com: MotoGP Valencia – Stoner draws first blood – Spies crashes

motomatters.com: Stoner and Rossi on the importance of taking their crews with them.

eurosport.yahoo.com: Yamaha’s master plan

gpone.com: Capirossi – Next stop Ducati

motogp.com: Indy MotoGP tickets on sale

Formula 1

Brazilian GP
Media Kit
Thursday Press Conference
Drivers: Rubens Barrichello, Lucas di Grassi, Felipe Massa, Bruno Senna

formual1.com: 2010 engine useage – who has what left

Other Racing

roadracerx.com: Michael Jordan Motorsports signs Ben Bostrom for American Superbike.

fim-live.com: Japanese riders show ISDE spirit.

On the Street

cyrilhuzblog.com: Harley-Davidson 3 year plan

HFL: Electricity is the future of police bikes. [?]

Much of the talk on the forum centers on Yamaha’s threat to R 1200 GS dominance with their Super Tenere; however, the real threat to BMW in the showroom could be coming from the UK in the form of the new Triumph Tiger 800s.
HFL: Trriumph Tiger 800 official specs and info

motorcyclenews.com: Moto Guzzi V7 review

motosprint.it: Rueben Xaus is doing a signing gig for Italian press Motosprint at the EICMA.

thekneeslider.com: IET Integrated Electric Transmission motorcycle from SMRE Egnineering

technologyreview.com: Adding cabbie know how to online maps

The Mothership



BMW PressClub Global: BMW Group builds mobility of the future in Leipzig. € 400 million investment in Megacity Vehicle production. BMW Group to create 800 jobs.


Woot of the Day

Bike Candy

In 2006 during the week between Christmas and New Years I posted a four part Morning Reads piece I had put together about the BMW C1, the companies last venture into the scooter market. I have included the opening piece here with links to all the following parts of the feature.


Feature:

BMW C1

This year coverage of the Intermot show and the unveiling of the new BMW models generated large numbers of threads, posts and views on the Forum. I wonder what the Forum would have had to say in 1992 when BMW introduced the concept version of the BMW C1?



By the time the C1 200 made it appearance to replace the original C1 125cc we may reasonably wonder what the woman in the photo is smiling about. Is she looking back at admiringly at us as the owners of this bike that truly intrigues her? Or, is she looking back at us to laugh at the odd ball vehicle while feeling a bit sorry for us in a compassionate way?


From its presentation to the public the C1 presented difficulties for everyone. BMW claimed the idea. Much would be made about the true input of BMW but they fervently claimed the idea as their own. They fervently claimed the idea, specifications and approval at all steps of the process. It was theirs! Presented as a concept at the show it was to be two wheeled transport with all the advantages that can imply with the strengths of an automobile.


The production plans that were laid out had Bertone, the Italian specialty manufacturer doing the production building of the C1. Bertone was not an unknown quantity to BMW.



In the past Bertone had provided concept car design for the automotive division of BMW and many other European manufactures. Americans are champions of vertically integrated companies that control the show from top to bottom. The Europeans seem to be able to maintain a high level of control and bureaucracy while taking advantage of flattening their companies by creating project based alliances to take advantage of specialty companies.

In addition to the design services they offered Bertone also could provide their customers with manufacturing at a variety of levels. This normally involved being a body and platform builder with the final work being completed by others. At the presentation the Italian firm proudly touted the blend of motorcycle and auto innovation they had designed and would be producing for BMW. Breaking ground in the new concept would user in a new chapter in the storied history of this specialty firm. While putting some money in their pocket from someone who’s check would not bounce.


The parenting analogy works until you throw the third element in the mix. Bombardier – Rotax would provide the power plant and drive train that brings this concept to life.



A strong company in its own right, Bombardier – Rotax was no stranger to participating with design and production duties performed under another brands marque. At the unveiling they wanted to be recognized as an important piece of this innovative project.

The trip from concept vehicle to road going production versions took several years. In the intervening time potential customers, dealers and the press were left to wonder about the idea. Was it a car- bike, a bike-car, urban transportation vehicle, uber-scooter or what? Mark Hammond in his article about the C1 for Motorcycle summed up the European confusion and the American reaction this way. “Whatever the Europeans decide on, you can bet if one ever washed up on American shores, it will be known simply as ‘that goofy looking scooter thing’.”

Part 2
Part 3
Part 4




[img]http://m1ka.smugmug.com/photos/119062097_WUcat-M.jpg[img]

[mika]

Change date

Members with Birthdays Today

MotoGP

With everything decided with the exception of who buys the first round of drinks as winner of the Valencia GP things could be a little bit boring in MotoGP this weekend. Hype or not there appears to be a lot of pride being demonstrated and parting words/shots being taken as many make their final appearance, not only of the 2010 season, but with their current teams.

motorgp.com: Stoner storms to pole

fim-live.com: Emotional final pole for Stoner

teamtech3.fr; Spies and Edwards eye podium in Valencia

Yamaha-racingparts.com: Insider Magazine

1 27 Casey STONER
AUS Ducati Team Ducati 310.3 1'31.799
2 99 Jorge LORENZO
SPA Fiat Yamaha Team Yamaha 305.5 1'32.130 0.331 / 0.331
3 58 Marco SIMONCELLI
ITA San Carlo Honda Gresini Honda 303.7 1'32.244 0.445 / 0.114
4 46 Valentino ROSSI
ITA Fiat Yamaha Team Yamaha 305.4 1'32.330 0.531 / 0.086
5 69 Nicky HAYDEN
USA Ducati Team Ducati 305.7 1'32.422 0.623 / 0.092
6 11 Ben SPIES
USA Monster Yamaha Tech 3 Yamaha 305.1 1'32.566 0.767 / 0.144
7 5 Colin EDWARDS
USA Monster Yamaha Tech 3 Yamaha 305.3 1'32.579 0.780 / 0.013
8 26 Dani PEDROSA
SPA Repsol Honda Team Honda 312.4 1'32.603 0.804 / 0.024
9 4 Andrea DOVIZIOSO
ITA Repsol Honda Team Honda 311.3 1'32.886 1.087 / 0.283
10 33 Marco MELANDRI
ITA San Carlo Honda Gresini Honda 308.7 1'32.917 1.118 / 0.031
11 14 Randy DE PUNIET
FRA LCR Honda MotoGP Honda 307.1 1'32.925 1.126 / 0.008
12 41 Aleix ESPARGARO
SPA Pramac Racing Team Ducati 303.1 1'33.085 1.286 / 0.160
13 40 Hector BARBERA
SPA Paginas Amarillas Aspar Ducati 311.0 1'33.170 1.371 / 0.085
14 65 Loris CAPIROSSI
ITA Rizla Suzuki MotoGP Suzuki 306.5 1'33.339 1.540 / 0.169
15 7 Hiroshi AOYAMA
JPN Interwetten Honda MotoGP Honda 308.3 1'33.343 1.544 / 0.004
16 71 Carlos CHECA
SPA Pramac Racing Team Ducati 305.3 1'33.499 1.700 / 0.156
17 19 Alvaro BAUTISTA
SPA Rizla Suzuki MotoGP Suzuki 305.9 1'33.515 1.716 / 0.016


Formula 1

Hulkenberg takes his maiden pole for AT&T Williams.

If MotoGP is full of parting drama this weekend Formula 1 is not far behind.

Speculation for the last two weeks has centered around who would take Hulkenberg’s seat on the Williams Team. With his first pole and the first pole for Williams in some time the Huld may have moved Barrichello into the ejection seat.

Over at Red Bull management has been trying to back peddle on reports that Vettel has been chosen to be the teams building focus now and in the future. The future part of the report was never really in doubt. The present part sounded like a huge slap to the helmet for Webber who went from leader to follower in the Championship hunt with his crash in Korea.

Ferrari was cautious after Korea. They kept saying ‘we haven’t won anything yet’ after Alonso won and took the Driver Championship lead. Caution was the pass word of the effort. The trouble with caution is you can cool down too much. Alonso is in fifth spot on the grid for Sunday and home country favorite is further back still.

Fun stuff!


fia.com; Friday Press Conference
TEAM PRINCIPALS AND DRIVERS: John BOOTH (Virgin), Ross BRAWN (Mercedes), Mike GASCOYNE (Lotus), Timo GLOCK (Virgin), Nico ROSBERG (Mercedes), Jarno TRULLI (Lotus)
Qualifying:
Press Conference
DRIVERS:
1. Nico H?£LKENBERG (Williams), 1m14.470s
2. Sebastian VETTEL (Red Bull), 1m15.519s
3. Mark WEBBER (Red Bull), 1m15.637s
Classification
Lap Times
Maximum Speeds
Sector Times
Speed Trap


The Mothership

BMW Motorrad Motorsport - Successes BMW S 1000 RR
• 05.11.2010
• Press Release
BMW S 1000 RR: A global story of success.

The BMW S 1000 RR riders celebrate 13 titles and 113 race wins in international and national championships.


M??nchen/Stephanskirchen 5th November 2010. In the 2010 season the BMW S 1000 RR proved to be the bike to beat in international and national championships all around the world. Customer teams sent over 120 BMW S 1000 RRs into action, many of them dominating their series, from Germany to Canada and South Africa to Australia. No less then 13 BMW riders were able to celebrate title honours, many of them with early championship victories. With still a few races to go in some national series, in this season so far 113 races have been won on a BMW S 1000 RR. The bike established itself as a true success model.


The first title of the season was won by Ayrton Badovini (ITA). The rider from Team BMW Motorrad Italia STK won on his RR nine out of ten races in the FIM Superstock 1000 Cup, and was crowned champion on August 1st. Twelve riders, who relied on the potential of the bike made by BMW Motorrad, followed his example in national championships and also celebrated title victories. To name a few: Gregory Fastre (Belgium), Javier Fores Querol (Spain), Jon Kirkham (British Superstock Championship), Steve Brogan (British Superbike EVO Championship) Sami Penna (Finland), Martin Choi (Greece), Maxim Averkin (Russia) and Erwan Nigon (France). Nigon’s team-mate, S?®bastien Gimbert, completed the success for BMW Motorrad in France by finishing as runner-up.


In Germany, the BMW S 1000 RR was the dominant bike in several series. In the DMV Road Racing Championship, all races were won by BMW costumer teams, and their riders finished the season as first, second and third overall. Title honours and top positions in the overall classifications also went to BMW riders in the DMV Endurance Cup (first, second, fourth and fifth), the DMV Road Racing Cup (first, third, fourth and fifth) and the DMSB Endurance Championship (first and second). In the International German Championship IDM Werner Daemen (BEL) from Team Alpha Technik finished the season as runner-up after celebrating some great race wins with his RR. In the highly competitive IDM Constructors Championship BMW also finished as runner-up, just one point off the top spot.


Also in the FIM Superbike World Championship, the top production-based motorcycle racing category, the BMW S 1000 RR proved its potential with two podium finishes and the first pole position for the BMW Motorrad Motorsport team.


“Our heartiest congratulations to all BMW RR riders worldwide for their great successes”, says Hendrik von Kuenheim, General Director BMW Motorrad. “We are very delighted for them, but also very proud of our contribution in providing them with a more than competitive bike. With the BMW S 1000 RR we have succeeded in building a brand new motorcycle which is more than capable internationally, and has since become the leading motorbike in this sector. Now we are looking forward to an exciting 2011 season and are convinced these international and national successes will continue.”
BMW PressClub: A vision becomes reality: BMW announces serial production of sports car with plug-in hybrid technology.


Woot of the Day


Bike Candy

BMW finally does some looking back, way back, on its racing history.
Born winner and role model: on the 100th birthday of Georg ("Schorsch") Meier.
• 05.11.2010
• Press Release

“Schorsch”, as he was known in Bavarian, made motor sport history in his time. Born in M??hldorf, he embarked on off-road racing on a BMW R 4 and, among other triumphs, became German Military Champion. In 1937 he was signed on by BMW as a works rider, and crowned his very first season of road racing with the 1938 European Championship. What was arguably his most significant victory followed in 1939, when he became the first non-British rider on a foreign motorcycle to win the Senior TT on the Isle of Man. In doing so, he placed not only himself but the BMW brand firmly at the pinnacle of road racing.



After the war, he took another five German Championships on his pre-war supercharged BMW motorcycle, set up world endurance records and raked in medals in off-road events. Throughout, he remained loyal to the BMW brand – not just on the race track but in his business life as well. In spring of 1948 Meier opened up a motorcycle shop in Munich’s Dachauerstrasse and a year later became a BMW motorcycle dealer, subsequently selling BMW cars as well. At this time he was already one of Germany’s biggest and most successful BMW franchised dealers.

Georg Meier, who died on 19 February 1999, was one of the true sporting greats of his day. He was a popular public figure not only for his sporting successes but also thanks to his exemplary comportment beyond the race track. As such he not only helped to define the sporting image of the BMW brand but also served as an outstanding ambassador of the brand at all times.

[mika]

Members with Birthdays Today

Today’s races are in time zones that make us wait for results news until latter in the day. I will post my aggregation of the news that catches my eye Monday morning.

I have been waiting for the chill to leave the morning air before I head out to Des Moines. I am playing culture vulture today. There is an exhibition at the Science Center of Iowa Da Vinci the Genius One Man. Many Visions. Over my morning coffee I came across these items.

On the Street

A video rider report via MCM from Monster Energy's Fred Crosset, of Belgium, who takes his trial bike out for a spin in his hometown. Watch and enjoy some urban trial biking.







cyrilhuzeblog.com: Morgan to launch the Super Sports threewheeler.

Ace Cycle Car of Seattle has received a fair amount of ink lately for its versions of the Morgan three wheeler. Its Ace 3 is produced under license from Morgan and features power by a 100bhp H-D Twin Cam ‘B’ engine attached to a car transmission with five speeds and reverse gear. The surface similarity to the Morgan project should not be unexpected; however, the Super Sports is a Morgan of England project.

Morgan has focused its efforts on its version of the four wheeled world for some time. It has toyed with three wheeled fans with things like their Peddle Car and licensing companies like Cycle Car. Now it is going to build the Super Sport.

The renderings hint at what is to come but where quirky English car company goes with this is still a guess. The proposed Super Sport will have a base price in the range of $40,000. What a ‘Bespoke’ (custom built to buyers specs) versions will price out at is limited to the buyers imagination wallet specifications and Morgan’s willingness to build. In addition to these models a racing version is rumored to be in development for future offering.



The Morgan Threewheeler

Specification
The specification ensures the driver and passenger have exactly what they need whilst encapsulating the original Morgan Threewheeler’s DNA. The attractive themes apparent in the successful Sport range of traditional Morgans forms the basis of the specification of the cars. Eight Sport colours with black detailing and a choice of black or tan leather are offered.

Weight: 500kg (Est.)

Power: 100bhp (at wheel) (Est.)

Top Speed: 115mph (Est.)

0-60 : 4.5 seconds (Est.)

Engine: 1800cc ‘V twin’

Gearbox: 5 speed + reverse

Super formed aluminium body

Motorcycle homologation

Choice of 8 sport colours

Gloss black wheel arches and lamps

Gloss black wire wheels

Matt black exhausts + gloss heat shield

Nickel colored cowl

Super formed aluminium body

Gloss black roll hoops

Twin flyscreens

Black or tan leather

Leather seats, dash and side pads

Exposed tubular black chassis

Leather steering wheel + alloy centre

Black anodized dash panel

Aluminium ‘aircraft’ toggle switches

Body Colored trim panels

‘Bomb release’ style start button

‘Bespoke’ specifications for the Morgan Three wheeler will be available, as with
any Morgan, but at increased cost and following a run of standard cars off the production line


Morgan Three Wheeler Super Sports 1934
If the new Super Sports is not what you desire then you will have to find an original. A restored it will set you back a bit but an unrestored one will probably set you back a bit more once you get it on the street; but what fun!



Woot of the Day

Bike Candy

The number of BMW Boxer caf?® and bobber bikes appearing on the web is increasing all the time. Their numbers are dominated by the bigger airhead twins. So after initially catching my eye with its looks my curiosity was aroused when I realized this effort is based on a 1973 R60/5.

According to BikeEXIF the bike is owned by a Frenchman and is called ‘The Clubber’. If you spend any time looking at pictures on this site you will certainly find more elegant boxer customs. Elegance is great and truly well executed can be stunning but to many pieces of that kind of boxer bike candy can be too sweet. What I find engaging about this bike is the contradiction in terms it presents and pulls off. Despite its diminutive engine size it has a brutish muscular appearance. Reading the site copy you will find information on some the details of the bike build. With some interesting work the bike clearly is not a pretty boy bike but even lacking a front fender it is one that begs to be ridden on twisting back roads not just from caf?® to caf?®.

[mika]

Members with Birthdays Today

MotoGP

The Valencia race results had a little for everyone to crow about.

Lorenzo won the 2010 rider championship earlier in the season and wins the seasons final race to prove once again that he is champion. Sandwiched between the Fiat-Yamahas Stoner notched his 42 podium for Ducati on his last ride for the Italian marque. After seven years with Yamaha Rossi said he has no regrets as he finished third for the last podium spot (his 84 podium finish for Yamaha). An injudre Ben Spies was one step off the podium as he punctuated the end of his first season in MotoGP.

Formula 1

Brazilian GP – Race
Press Conference
Classification
Lap Chart


]: Red Bull crowned 2010 constructors champions

The one two finish secured the Constructor Championship for the Red Bull Team. Four drivers, Alonso Vettel Webber and Hamilton, remain in contention for the Drivers Championship which will be decided in Abu Dhabi next weekend. The press will have a field day spinning the options but Vettel could be decision maker on whose head the laurel wreath rests and it may not be his own.


On the Street

This is an interesting read as the case is made for and why HFL is changing to a subscription based website in an effort to fund the site as a full time effort while allowing for expanded content and coverage in the process.


Woot of the Day

Bike Candy

[mika]

Members with Birthdays Today

MotoGP

returnofthecaferacers.com: Mods vs Rockers 2010

The 2011 MotoGP starting grid has a zero plus gain with Suzuki to field one rider for next season and Repsol Honda bringing a three rider team to the grid.

gpone.com: Capirossi, Ducati’s prodigal son

Other Racing

GS Trophy | bmw-motorrad.co.za: South Africa prepares to welcome the world.

On the Street

allaboutbikes.com: The great 250 debate

operationsmanagement.net: The top 100 motorcycle bloggers
I came across this compilation of bloggers. Some of the sites listed will be familiar as they have appeared here others will be new and may be of interest to you.

Video of Ducati’s Milan press conference introducing their 2011 line.


speedtv.com: Long term Speed Triple suspension upgrade

Raptors and Rockets presentation of the Horex VR6


HFL: How does Horex’s VR6 engine work?


webbikeworld.com: BMW K1600GT – BMW K 1600 GTL
Photos and a video of the final production version of these bikes, along with an explanation of the difference between the K 1600 GT and the GTL versions

The Mothership

PressClub Global: BMW Group reports best October sales ever
BMW Motorrad delivered 6,845 motorcycles to customers worldwide in October, exceeding the already strong sales result of the previous October by 1.7%. In the year to the end of October, deliveries rose to 88,353 motorcycles (prev. yr. 76,443). This represents an increase of 15.6% over the previous year.
Follow the link for the full release


Woot of the Day

Bike Candy

fabiomarcaccini.it brings his GS vision with the BMW Offride. The site begins to describe his vision as …the result of Fabio’s travel experiences, the African one in particular. Back home Marcaccini focused on those who were the two most critical points: the “Telelever” front suspension and the weight distribution, convenient for tourism, not for the adventure. He opted for the most traditional and effective Marzocchi, obviously prototype, 50 mm big sticks with 264 travel and self made ergal plates and pins.]… follow the link for the full description and more photos.

Concept



Build



Ride

[mika]

Members with Birthdays Today

WSBK

worldsbk.com: BMW proud of S 1000 RR performance

Job wanted
worldsbk.com: Xaus still in search of 2011 ride

Then I came across this from motospirnt.it saying Xaus will be on a Ten Kate Honda for the 2011 season.

MotoGP

nickyhayden.com: Rossi makes his Ducati debut and Hayden compares engines.

Yamaha-racing.com: Lrenzo and Spies first and third at Valencia test

teamtech3.fr: Edwards and Crutchlow kick off 2011 winter testing schedule

suzuki-racing.com: Positive start for new look Rizla-Suzuki squad.

Way to early for them to mean anything but the clock says: Valencia Testing Day 1
Results
1 Jorge Lorenzo 1′32.012
2 Casey Stoner 1′32.775
3 Ben Spies 1′32.878
4 Dani Pedrosa 1′32.912
5 Marco Simoncelli 1′32.919
6 Andrea Dovizioso 1′33.190
7 Colin Edwards 1′33.513
8 Alvaro Bautista 1′33.558
9 Nicky Hayden 1′33.716
10 Valentino Rossi 1′33.882
11 Randy De Puniet 1′33.914
12 Hiroshi Aoyama 1′33.953
13 Hector Barbera 1′34.110
14 Cal Crutchlow 1′34.314
15 Loris Capirossi 1′34.631
16 Toni Elias 1′35.058
17 Karel Abraham 1′35.076

Video: sportrider.com Rossi talks about each year’s Yamaha M1
Formula 1

fia.com: Abu Dhabi GP Preview

Ross Brawn and Nico Rosberg talking about the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix this weekend


autosport.com: Ranault remains committed to F1

f1technical.net: Ferrari open up lower diffuser deck

Other Racing

iomtt.com: homestay scheme for 2011 launched early due to high demand

BMW Motorrad GS Trophy 2010. Daily media service and photo competition

Shot in stunning cinema grade HD on Lumix GH1 - watch in 720P & full screen for best results. A video profile of Chris Hodgson & Willie Hodgson of San Jose BMW racing 4 bikes including the first ever attempt at the world speed record on the BMW S1000RR. Produced, Photographed & Edited by Shiva. Copyright & all rights reserved.



On the Street

thevintegent.blogspot.com: Off the hook Parisian BMW Display

[url= http://bikeadvice.in/top-10-expensive-vintage-motorcycles/]bikeadvice.in[,url]: Top 10 most expensive vintage motorcyccles

Cycle World International Motorcycle Show season kickoff is 12 November in Dallas.
BMW is making very limited appearances again this year. BMW will not be at Dallas. Check the your show to see if they are coming or the dealers are sponsoring a booth.

mvagusta.it: MV Agusta F3 – the star of the show

Harley-Davidson unveils its 2011 CVO motorcycle line-up which includes three long-range touring bikes and one hybrid standard. We're in Lake Tahoe to check 'em out. After seeing the rides H-D is delivering for 2011,


motoring.co.za: BMW Vision moving closer to reality

The Mothership

BMW Science Club: “Top Speed” – beyond the speedometer needle

BMW Science Club: Did you know,
that in future you will be able to 'heal' minor damage with a sticking plaster?

Woot of the Day

Bike Candy
-

[mika]

Members with Birthdays Today

Thank You VETS!

WSBK

motorsport-magazine.com gives it spin on Xaus and Ten Kate.
Xaus time at BMW was “lackluster” in the final sentence they seem to hint at a F1 driver kind of deal where the rider brings sponsorship. Deep Throat and his fans may like these deals but are they good for racing?

In speedweek.de’s version Ten Kate was dealing for either Toseland until he was snatched up by BMW Italia.

MotoGP

motogp.com: Stoner fastest on day 2.

Yamaha-racing.com: Lorenzo and Spies wrap up successful Valencia official MotoGP tetst.

teamtech3.fr: Positive test for Edwards and Crutchlow

hondaproracing.com: Honda RC212V riders end successful post-season MotoGP test in confident mood

ruizila-suzuki-motogp.co.uk: Constructive day for Rizla Suzuki as Bautista takes big steps.

nickyhayden.com: Valencia session ends for Hayden and Rossi

motomatters.com: Valencia Day 2 notes

BMW to MotoGP in 2012?!
caradidisac.com: MotoGP | Wayne Gardner assures that Honda has promised him the arrivals are Aprilia and BMW

ducatinewstoday.com: Question mark over Rossi’s performance?

The MotoGP season may be over but Los MiniBikers are just making it to Estoril


Formula 1

:Los Mini Drivers run their GP of Brazil


Other Racing



On the Street

roadracingworld.com: AMA Vintage Moorcycle Days 2011 scheduled for July 22-24 at Mid-Ohio

aspaltandrubber.com: The Buell 1125CR that never was

bikeexif.com: Interview with Roland Sands

BMWSuperBikes Interview with Larry Romestant of SpecialKs.net in HD



The Mothership

bmw-motorrad.co.za: Concept to conclusion – Concept C


Video from BMWUSA






Woot of the Day

Bike Candy

Testing Season