Bench Racing & The Morning Reads

[mika]

Members with Birthdays Today


SBK

worldsbk.com: Aitchison talks about 2012 Grillini SBK project

crash.net: Sykes steps up training program


WORLDSBK: 2012 Race Calendar | Championship Standings Rider / Manufacturer

motogp

racer.com: Hayden optimistic over test fitness

gpone.com: The new Ducati won't be at Wrooom

ducati.com: Valentino Rossi and Nicky Hayden ready to return to action with the Ducati GP12

and in 2014 Rossi might not be at Wroom
bbc.co.uk: Valentino Rossi considering 2014 retirement from MotoGP





motogp: 2012 race calendar | Results and Statistics


Formula 1

formula1.com; Overall overhaul – race suite evolution

jamesallenonf1: Has Lotus Renault found this year's must have gizmo?

skysports.com: Gascoyne – Biggest step yet

ferrari.com: Wrooom 2012 gets underway





Formula 1: 2012 Race Calendar | Results Season/Team/Driver


Other Racing

DAKAR 2012

facebook: Dakar 2012 – Husqvarna phot updates

Dakar Blogs – not a comprehensive list but ones that have shown up in previous news posts.

trackingdakar.com: Standings available for stages in many sorts.

bc2dakar.com: Bill Conger – Husqvarna TE449

advrider.com: Dakar 2012 Official Event Coverage

advrider.com: Tales from the bivouac, Dakar 2012





On the Street

thekneeslider.com: Hands on skills mean greater choice and freedom to buy used
FWIW: and enjoy the bike you currently have.

cycleworld.com: Adventure-Touring around the world on a Yamaha Super Tenere

cyclenews.com: New motorcycle safety website

nortonmotorcycles.com: Norton in Germany
Having finally passed the EU emissions tests Norton is delivering bikes. I have not heard if they have completed their US emission qualifications which were in the works last I read.

sportrider.com: The vanishing art of getting lost

twowheelsblog.com: Jorge Lorenzo to get his motorcycle license
-related-
[url=http://www.superbikeplanet.com/2012/Jan/120110a.htm]superbikeplanet.com[/uurl]: Lorenzo passes Spanish riding test, can now legally ride motorcycle.

visordown.com: Small capacity Triumph confirmed

visordown.com:Motorcycle theft on the rise in York

pipeburn.coml: 1979 Honda CB650 by Trillion Industries






The Mothership




FWIW



Riders.org Riders for Health


On a lighter note...




bellinghamherald.com: Disgruntled Ohio Girl Scout refuses to sell cookies


Cage World



roadandtrack.com: Shelby American at 50





Reference::

BMW MOA 2012 International Rally

SBK
2012 FIM Superbike Championship Calendar

[url=http://www.fim-live.com/fileadmin/alfresco/Codes_et_reglements/SBK_fr.pdf]FIM

Changes to the FIM Superbike, Supersport and Superstock regulations for 2012:
Some more details of changes to the championship regulations were delivered by the FIM in a press release.

FIM: Official Documents
Link to the current year official documents for all classes and search tool for other years.

FIA Regulations – Formula 1 World Championship

WEATHER
US:
http://www.weather.gov/ | NOAA's National Weather Service
Select to go to the NWS homepage. National Weather Service - or - Follow the National Weather Service on FaceBook

http://www.weather.com | Bloomsburg, PA

CA:
http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/canada_e.html

ROAD CONDITIONS
US:
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/ : National Traffic and Road Closure Information
511 - America's Traveler Information Telephone Number; Construction Related; Local and State Transit Links; Traffic Conditions; Regional Links; Weather/Road ...

CA:
http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/drivebc_supp/canada_map.htm :
Canada Road Condition Information: Links to provincial highway condition websites across Canada..

Shameless Trolling For Touring Tips

NHTSA.dot.gov Vehicle Recalls RSS

SportRider.com: Motorcycle Riding Skills Series – Street bike and motorcycle riding skills techniques articles at Sport Rider

BMW-Motorrad.com: Service
Electronic Parts Catalogue
Download Manuals
Breakdown Dictionary
Tyre Options
Tips
Before every journey…
Before a log trip…
Before winter…
How to clean your motorcycle

ascycles.com: BMW Motorcycle Service and Maintenance Schedules

mic.org: Motorcycle Industry Council | Tire Guide 2011.pdf

Gasbuddy.com: Search for local gas prices along your trip route.

pure-gas.org: Ethanol-free gas stations in the U.S. And Canada

Cycle-ergo.com motorcycle ergonomic simulator.

Woot of the Day

MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual


Bike Candy

[mika]

Joan Barreda and the Bavarian-Italian Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain celebrated a historic win at stage ten of the Rally Dakar 2012.

DAKAR 2012 Update

Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain - Rallye Dakar - Stage 10
11.01.2012
Dakar 2012, Stage 10
Iquique - Arica
694 km in total, 377 km special test

Historic stage win for Husqvarna

Barreda managed to close the gap to his fellow countryman Marc Coma right after the start. He was able to maintain the speed of the three-time Dakar champion and both caught race leader Cyril Despres. The three riders rode a ridiculous speed all stage long, with Barreda eventually taking a convincing win. This proves two things: Barreda has the speed of the best rally pilots in the world. And the Speedbrain-developed Husqvarna rally bike is capable of victories.

Paulo Goncalves?? day also started well. The Portuguese had the virtual lead for the first 180 kilometres. A Husqvarna one-two was in the cards. But the Portuguese hit a hidden stone in the sinking sand, sending him violently over the handlebars. The bike was pretty damaged afterwards, luckily the rider was okay. Goncalves fixed the bike and went back into the race. He finally arrived at Arica 19:23 minutes behind his teammate.
Goncalves nevertheless defended seventh spot in the standings.

Jose Manuel Pellicer und Z?® H?®lio rode a steady stage. The Brazililan and the Spaniard are lying around the top twenty.

Team principal Wolfgang Fischer said after the stage: "All our hard work has been rewarded with this historic win. We??re extremely happy to see our bike perform that well - obviously a machine capable of winning at the Dakar against the world??s best. Earning this result is very satisfying to say the least. A stage win against two of the sport??s greatest."

1. Joan Barreda (SPA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 4:18:43 hrs
2. Marc Coma (SPA) KTM, 1:32 min behind
3. Cyril Despres (FRA) KTM, 3:39
4. Helder Rodrigues (POR) Yamaha, 5:16
5. Jordi Viladoms (SPA) KTM, 8:48
12. Paulo Goncalves (POR) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 19:23
19. Jose Manuel Pellicer (SPA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 35:45
27. Z?® H?®lio (BRA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 42:47

Overall standings
1. Despres, 33:07:39 hrs
2. Coma, 0:21 min behind
3. Rodrigues, 45:56
4. Viladoms, 1:18:52
5. Stefan Svitko (SVK) KTM, 1:24:38
7. Paulo Goncalves (POR) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 1:41:41
14. Joan Barreda (SPA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 3:29:27
21. Z?® H?®lio (BRA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 4:48:22
22. Jose Manuel Pellicer (SPA), Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 4:49:06

motoracinglive.com: Premier succes for Barreda and Husqvarna at Dakar

motoracinglive.com: The 'Moto-Case' bikers











Dakar Blogs ÔÇô not a comprehensive list but ones that have shown up in previous news posts.

trackingdakar.com: Standings available for stages in many sorts.

bc2dakar.com: Bill Conger ÔÇô Husqvarna TE449

advrider.com: Dakar 2012 Official Event Coverage

advrider.com: Tales from the bivouac, Dakar 2012

[mika]

Members with Birthdays Today


SBK

bbc.co.uk: Leon Haslam remains as driven as ever

worlsbk.com: Camier looking forward to second phase of SBK career

WORLDSBK: 2012 Race Calendar | Championship Standings Rider / Manufacturer

motogp

motomatters.com: Ezpeleta on the future of MotoGP bikes
FWIW: MotoGP fans this is an important article for you to read. The head of Dorna talks about his view of the sport's future.

visordown.com: CRTs a necessity says Rossi

bikesportnews.com: Ducati boss admits MotoGP 2012 is a big challenge

ducati.com: Filippo preziosi explains technical aspects of the GP12

motogp: 2012 race calendar | Results and Statistics


Formula 1

formula1.com: Kubica injures leg in fall
A fall on ice at his home in Italy will set back his return yet again.

Formula 1: 2012 Race Calendar | Results Season/Team/Driver


Other Racing




DAKAR 2012

motorcycledaily.com: KTM Racing news Stage 10 Dakar 2012

roadandtrack.com: Highs and lows for Robby Gordon 2012 Dakar Rally

Worth looking at again


Dakar Blogs ÔÇô not a comprehensive list but ones that have shown up in previous news posts.

trackingdakar.com: Standings available for stages in many sorts.

bc2dakar.com: Bill Conger ÔÇô Husqvarna TE449

advrider.com: Dakar 2012 Official Event Coverage

advrider.com: Tales from the bivouac, Dakar 2012

On the Street

motorcycle-usa.com: Ural Motorcycle sales up 39%









The Mothership



FWIW

spiegel.de: Germany could face economic recession in 2012
What happens next? Now that BMW has set new record motorcycle sales how will they handle the growing economic concerns?





Cage World







Reference::

BMW MOA 2012 International Rally

SBK
2012 FIM Superbike Championship Calendar

[url=http://www.fim-live.com/fileadmin/alfresco/Codes_et_reglements/SBK_fr.pdf]FIM

Changes to the FIM Superbike, Supersport and Superstock regulations for 2012:
Some more details of changes to the championship regulations were delivered by the FIM in a press release.

FIM: Official Documents
Link to the current year official documents for all classes and search tool for other years.

FIA Regulations ÔÇô Formula 1 World Championship

WEATHER
US:
http://www.weather.gov/ | NOAA's National Weather Service
Select to go to the NWS homepage. National Weather Service - or - Follow the National Weather Service on FaceBook

http://www.weather.com | Bloomsburg, PA

CA:
http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/canada_e.html

ROAD CONDITIONS
US:
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/ : National Traffic and Road Closure Information
511 - America's Traveler Information Telephone Number; Construction Related; Local and State Transit Links; Traffic Conditions; Regional Links; Weather/Road ...

CA:
http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/drivebc_supp/canada_map.htm :
Canada Road Condition Information: Links to provincial highway condition websites across Canada..

Shameless Trolling For Touring Tips

NHTSA.dot.gov Vehicle Recalls RSS

SportRider.com: Motorcycle Riding Skills Series ÔÇô Street bike and motorcycle riding skills techniques articles at Sport Rider

BMW-Motorrad.com: Service
Electronic Parts Catalogue
Download Manuals
Breakdown Dictionary
Tyre Options
Tips
Before every journey
Before a log trip
Before winter
How to clean your motorcycle

ascycles.com: BMW Motorcycle Service and Maintenance Schedules

mic.org: Motorcycle Industry Council | Tire Guide 2011.pdf

Gasbuddy.com: Search for local gas prices along your trip route.

pure-gas.org: Ethanol-free gas stations in the U.S. And Canada

Cycle-ergo.com motorcycle ergonomic simulator.

Woot of the Day

MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual

TIP: For precision steering, adjust the handlebars so your hands are even with or just below elbows. Learn more. P.11 http://t.co/jLCSL9Kj

QOD: What is the best way to stop your motorcycle quickly? http://t.co/mgV6s1Pp


Bike Candy

It was sunny and in the 50s when I took a neighbors Sportster for a ride Tuesday. It was cold and snowing when I saw this offering from the Progressive IMC Show site.





Sometimes even choppers.

[mika]

DAKAR 2012 Update







Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain - Rallye Dakar - Stage 11
12.01.2012
Dakar 2012, Stage 11
Arica - Arequipa
705 km in total, 534 km special test

Barreda in the top five again

Thursday??s stage eleven of the Dakar 2012 provided mixed feelings for the Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain. Joan Barreda scored yet another top five result, but Paulo Goncalves?? battle for an overall podium is over following a decision by the race jury, which the team finds incomprehensible. Goncalves received a six-hour penalty and is now positioned way down the order.

Joan Barreda opened today??s "survival" stage. He reached a river crossing at km 40 and got momentarily stuck.

Barreda had to push the bike out because of the high water level. Cyril Despres and Marc Coma, who had started behind the Spaniard, therefore caught him. The trio carried on together. Despres then made a navigation error and plenty of riders joined the front-runners. That was pretty much the story of the stage. The route was beautiful, but not very difficult in terms of riding aspects. It was dusty and overtaking was close to impossible. Barreda ended the day a well-deserved fifth, promoting him to 11th overall.

Paulo Goncalves began the stage as 16th. He was confident in the morning to make up ground. Then came the jury decision. He understandbly found it hard to concentrate afterwards. The six-hour penalty was issued due to alleged unauthorised outside assistance. The penalty refers to stage eight, when Goncalves first got stuck in a mudhole all by himself, before suffering a broken drivetrain caused by a stone. In this situation rider No. 15 accused Goncalves of receiving outside assistance. Other riders who came by at that point, and who were in direct competition with the Portuguese, do not confirm such incident. Still the jury trusted the accusations, robbing the rider and the team of any hopes of a top result overall.

Jose Manuel Pellicer had a good day on the way to Arequipa. He made no mistakes and has improved considerably in the standings. Z?® H?®lio was also performing well, both riders are now sitting in the top twenty.

The riders are on their own tonight, no service is allowed in the survival bivaouc. Barreda starts tomorrow??s stage as fifth. Things will be real difficult and interesting, with the dunes of Nasca and a special of 245 kilometres awaiting the field.

1. Cyril Despres (FRA) KTM, 4:03:37 hrs
2. Gerard Farres Guell (SPA) KTM 1:39 min behind
3. Marc Coma (SPA) KTM, 2:01 min 4. Johnny Aubert (FRA) KTM 3:30
5. Joan Barreda (SPA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 4:53
15. Paulo Goncalves (POR) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 18:35
16. Jose Manuel Pellicer (SPA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 19:39
21. Z?® H?®lio (BRA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 26:49

Overall standings
1. Despres, 37:11:16 hrs
2. Coma, 2:22 min behind
3. Helder Rodrigues (POR) Yamaha, 1:08:40
4. Jordi Viladoms (SPA) KTM, 1:24:46
5. Stefan Svitko (SVK) KTM, 1:34:56
11. Joan Barreda (SPA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 3:34:20
18. Z?® H?®lio (BRA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 5:15:11
19. Jose Manuel Pellicer (SPA), Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 5:23:45
26. Paulo Goncalves (POR) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 8:00:16


Dakar Blogs ÔÇô not a comprehensive list but ones that have shown up in previous news posts.

trackingdakar.com: Standings available for stages in many sorts.

bc2dakar.com: Bill Conger ÔÇô Husqvarna TE449

advrider.com: Dakar 2012 Official Event Coverage

advrider.com: Tales from the bivouac, Dakar 2012

[40427]

I am an avid follower of the Dakar and this years coverage is much better with Jon Beekus speaking. I do wish they would show a bit more in depth of the privateers though.

I hate to say it but i am beginning to smell a political conspiracy with the recent turn of events;

Last years winner ( or is that whiner) drops out and goes home pouting. Then his team mate is suddenly challenged half way through the event over supposed illegal modifications to the air system in his Hummer. It passed tech inspection ( this year and the previous 4 !!)

Now i wonder if the favorite son and multi time winner S.P. talked with the last year victor and came up with this whole illegal deal since R.G. is taking his lunch ????????

[mika]

Members with Birthdays Today



motogp

crash.net: BQR confirms Kawasaki powered MotoGP entry

cyclenews.com: The future of MotoGP | What it is and what it isn't

motorcycledaily.com: Is WSBK Champ Carlos Checa the man who can fix Ducati's MotoGP machine?



motogp: 2012 race calendar | Results and Statistics


Formula 1

reuters.com: Lotus trigger first controversy of 2012 F1 season

bbc.co.uk: Lotus steal march on rivals with technical inovation

skysports.com: Green light for Lotus system

jamesallenonf1.com: Massa recognises it's make or break

Fangio's director British Hugh Hudson, the life and career of Fangio told by himself, ran for years on Channel 13 and her recorded is as I see that many know it but never saw her or for those who want to see her here again, you enjoy.



Take a spin with Fangio


Formula 1: 2012 Race Calendar | Results Season/Team/Driver


Other Racing






DAKAR 2012



Dakar Blogs ÔÇô not a comprehensive list but ones that have shown up in previous news posts.

trackingdakar.com: Standings available for stages in many sorts.

bc2dakar.com: Bill Conger ÔÇô Husqvarna TE449

advrider.com: Dakar 2012 Official Event Coverage

advrider.com: Tales from the bivouac, Dakar 2012

On the Street

dealernews.com: Big motorcycle recall helped push Honda to top of NHTSA list

thevintegent.com: Las Vegas 2012 Bonhams

[]url=http://www.visordown.com/motorcycle-news-bizarre/fancy-a-gurney-alligator/19840.html]visordown.com[/url]: Fancy a Gurney Alligator?

motorcycle-usa.com: World's fastest electreic ÔÇô Lightning Motorcycles









The Mothership



FWIW





Cage World

roadandtrack.com: BMW to show M performance lineup in Geneva



Reference::

BMW MOA 2012 International Rally

SBK
2012 FIM Superbike Championship Calendar

[url=http://www.fim-live.com/fileadmin/alfresco/Codes_et_reglements/SBK_fr.pdf]FIM

Changes to the FIM Superbike, Supersport and Superstock regulations for 2012:
Some more details of changes to the championship regulations were delivered by the FIM in a press release.

FIM: Official Documents
Link to the current year official documents for all classes and search tool for other years.

FIA Regulations ÔÇô Formula 1 World Championship

WEATHER
US:
http://www.weather.gov/ | NOAA's National Weather Service
Select to go to the NWS homepage. National Weather Service - or - Follow the National Weather Service on FaceBook

http://www.weather.com | Bloomsburg, PA

CA:
http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/canada_e.html

ROAD CONDITIONS
US:
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/ : National Traffic and Road Closure Information
511 - America's Traveler Information Telephone Number; Construction Related; Local and State Transit Links; Traffic Conditions; Regional Links; Weather/Road ...

CA:
http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/drivebc_supp/canada_map.htm :
Canada Road Condition Information: Links to provincial highway condition websites across Canada..

Shameless Trolling For Touring Tips

NHTSA.dot.gov Vehicle Recalls RSS

SportRider.com: Motorcycle Riding Skills Series ÔÇô Street bike and motorcycle riding skills techniques articles at Sport Rider

BMW-Motorrad.com: Service
Electronic Parts Catalogue
Download Manuals
Breakdown Dictionary
Tyre Options
Tips
Before every journey
Before a log trip
Before winter
How to clean your motorcycle

ascycles.com: BMW Motorcycle Service and Maintenance Schedules

mic.org: Motorcycle Industry Council | Tire Guide 2011.pdf

Gasbuddy.com: Search for local gas prices along your trip route.

pure-gas.org: Ethanol-free gas stations in the U.S. And Canada

Cycle-ergo.com motorcycle ergonomic simulator.

Woot of the Day

MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual

QOD: When it starts to rain, it is usually safest to do what? http://t.co/PifSxury


Bike Candy

[mika]

DAKAR 2012 Update Stage 12









Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain - Rallye Dakar - Stage 12
13.01.2012
Dakar 2012, Stage 12
Arequipa - Nasca
504 km in total, 245 km special test

Successful across the giant dunes

The Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain brought two riders into the top five at stage twelve of the Rally Dakar. Joan Barreda was battling with his fellow countryman Marc Coma for the victory. Coma finally arrived at the finish in Nasca first, 2:43 minutes ahead of Barreda. Paulo Goncalves, still frustrated with yesterday??s jury decision, powered his bike from starting position 17 all the way to fifth on the day.

Barreda gave another super performance. He made a small navigation error in the beginning, before stepping it up and going for the stage victory. He rode on his own all day and through very challenging dunes, which reminded Dakar veterans of the old days in Mauritania. The course was real difficult and the navigation was asking a lot from the riders. Barreda ultimately came out with one more top result in second place.

Paulo Goncalves meanwhile gained his rhythm back. The Portuguese enjoyed a trouble-free day, no problems whatsoever for him. He was rewarded with fifth spot in today??s classification.

Z?® H?®lio took it relatively easy. The Brazilian understandably had some regard for the monster-sized dunes on the way from Arequipa to Nasca. Teammate Jose Manuel Pellicer had a cruel opening to the stage. The Spaniard landed awkwardly following a jump, crashed and broke his handlebar. Thanks to a makeshift repair he was able to continue. Hats off to him for making it to the finish without even losing too much time.

Altogether the team can be very satisfied with how the second part of the two-day marathon stage went.
Saturday will now see the final hurdles on the way to Lima. It??s a rather long stage with lots of navigation difficulties. The special test offers 275 kilometres and should decide the outcome of the Dakar 2012.

1. Marc Coma (SPA) KTM, 2:24:38 hrs
2. Joan Barreda (SPA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 2:43 min behind
3. Jordi Viladoms (SPA) KTM, 3:10
4. Cyril Despres (FRA) KTM, 3:57
5. Paulo Goncalves (POR) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 5:25
37. Z?® H?®lio (BRA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 32:09
69. Jose Manuel Pellicer (SPA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 1:12:14

Overall standings
1. Coma, 39:38:16 hrs
2. Despres, 1:35 min behind
3. Helder Rodrigues (POR) Yamaha, 1:13:49
4. Viladoms, 1:40:34
5. Stefan Svitko (SVK) KTM, 1:41:45
11. Joan Barreda (SPA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 3:29:27
19. Z?® H?®lio (BRA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 5:44:58
21. Jose Manuel Pellicer (SPA), Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 6:33:37
30. Paulo Goncalves (POR) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 8:03:19


Dakar Blogs ÔÇô not a comprehensive list but ones that have shown up in previous news posts.

trackingdakar.com: Standings available for stages in many sorts.

bc2dakar.com: Bill Conger ÔÇô Husqvarna TE449

advrider.com: Dakar 2012 Official Event Coverage

advrider.com: Tales from the bivouac, Dakar 2012

[mika]

Members with Birthdays Today


SBK

worldsbk.com: Marco Melandri gives it full throttle off road

worldsbk.com: Fabio Alberti joins Effenbert Liberty as new team manager

WORLDSBK: 2012 Race Calendar | Championship Standings Rider / Manufacturer

motogp

motogp.com: Ezpeleta on MotoGP future

motogp.com: Provisional entry list for MotoGP 2012

The FIM have released the provisional entry list for the 2012 MotoGP championship.
1 CASEY STONER AUS ÔÇô HONDA TEAM, HONDA
4 ANDREA DOVIZIOSO ITA ÔÇô YAMAHA TECH 3, YAMAHA
5 COLIN EDWARDS USA ÔÇô FORWARD RACING, SUTER*
6 STEFAN BRADL GER ÔÇô LCR HONDA MotoGP, HONDA
8 HECTOR BARBERA SPA ÔÇô PRAMAC RACING TEAM, DUCATI
9 DANILO PETRUCCI ITA ÔÇô IODA RACING PROJECT, IODA*
11 BEN SPIES USA ÔÇô YAMAHA FACTORY RACING, YAMAHA
13 ANTHONY WEST AUS ÔÇô SPEED MASTER, ART*
14 RANDY DE PUNIET FRA ÔÇô ASPAR TEAM MotoGP, ART*
17 KAREL ABRAHAM CZE ÔÇô CARDION AB MOTORACING, DUCATI
19 ALVARO BAUTISTA SPA ÔÇô HONDA GRESINI, HONDA
20 ALEIX ESPARGARO SPA ÔÇô ASPAR TEAM MotoGP, ART*
22 IVAN SILVA SPA ÔÇô BQR, BQR-FTR*
26 DANI PEDROSA SPA ÔÇô HONDA TEAM, HONDA
35 CAL CRUTCHLOW GBR ÔÇô YAMAHA TECH 3, YAMAHA
46 VALENTINO ROSSI ITA ÔÇô DUCATI TEAM, DUCATI
51 MICHELE PIRRO ITA ÔÇô HONDA GRESINI, FTR*
68 YONNY HERNANDEZ COL ÔÇô BQR, BQR-FTR*
69 NICKY HAYDEN USA ÔÇô DUCATI TEAM, DUCATI
77 JAMES ELLISON GBR ÔÇô PAUL BIRD RACING, ART*
99 JORGE LORENZO SPA ÔÇô YAMAHA FACTORY RACING, YAMAHA


ducati.com: Spectacle on ice for Wrooom 2012 grand finale

motogp: 2012 race calendar | Results and Statistics


Formula 1

jamesallenonf1.com: Patents in F1 explained

bbc.co.uk: F1 drive Sutil to stand trial over night club incident

bbc.co.uk: Hamilton back on track with McLaren

Formula 1: 2012 Race Calendar | Results Season/Team/Driver


Other Racing




DAKAR 2012



Dakar Blogs ÔÇô not a comprehensive list but ones that have shown up in previous news posts.

trackingdakar.com: Standings available for stages in many sorts.

bc2dakar.com: Bill Conger ÔÇô Husqvarna TE449

advrider.com: Dakar 2012 Official Event Coverage

advrider.com: Tales from the bivouac, Dakar 2012

On the Street

asphaltandrubber.com: BMW S1000RR top selling motorcycle in the U.S.A.

thkneeslider.com: Circle cycle internal combustion engine

cycleworld.com: Adventure bike must have accessories

londonbikers.com: Moto Guzzi range revamped for 2012

roadrunnertravelcom: Used motorcycle history reports

webbikeworld.com: WebBikeWorld garage sale on now.



The Mothership



BMW Motorrad USA Reports Continued Growth for 2011
13.01.2012
BMW S 1000 RR Superbike Remains Best-Selling Model
Woodcliff Lake, NJ  January 13, 2012On the heels of BMW Motorrad reporting record global sales in 2011, BMW Motorrad USA posted a 7.4 percent growth in sales in 2011, nearly double the gain posted the previous year. Sales were fueled by continued demand for BMW Motorrad USAs best selling model, the S 1000 RR Superbike, as well as for the popular core models R 1200 RT, R 1200 GS and R 1200 GS Adventure and the all-new six-cylinder K 1600 GTL and K 1600 GT.
The company credits their sales performance to improved market conditions, a broad, continually enhanced model lineup and a strong dealer network.
ÔÇ£BMW had successfully weathered the downturn in the motorcycle market in recent years,ÔÇØ commented Mac McMath, National Sales Manager, BMW Motorrad USA. ÔÇ£Now, with market conditions improving and the arrival of new and updated models, we are poised for continued success in 2012.ÔÇØ
For model year 2012, BMW Motorrad USA is offering the all-new dual-sport G 650 GS Sert?úo, model updates for the F 800 R naked bike and S 1000 RR superbike, the K 1300 S and K 1300 S HP Limited Edition and the Special Edition R 1200 GS Rallye. All of these models are currently available at BMW retailers nationwide.
Now for 2012 they brought us this...




FWIW







Cage World

BMW-Motorsport ALMS ÔÇô Operation title defense is a go

fia.com: World Rally Championship ÔÇô summary of rules for 2012


Reference::

BMW MOA 2012 International Rally

SBK
2012 FIM Superbike Championship Calendar

[url=http://www.fim-live.com/fileadmin/alfresco/Codes_et_reglements/SBK_fr.pdf]FIM

Changes to the FIM Superbike, Supersport and Superstock regulations for 2012:
Some more details of changes to the championship regulations were delivered by the FIM in a press release.

FIM: Official Documents
Link to the current year official documents for all classes and search tool for other years.

FIA Regulations ÔÇô Formula 1 World Championship

WEATHER
US:
http://www.weather.gov/ | NOAA's National Weather Service
Select to go to the NWS homepage. National Weather Service - or - Follow the National Weather Service on FaceBook

http://www.weather.com | Bloomsburg, PA

CA:
http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/canada_e.html

ROAD CONDITIONS
US:
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/ : National Traffic and Road Closure Information
511 - America's Traveler Information Telephone Number; Construction Related; Local and State Transit Links; Traffic Conditions; Regional Links; Weather/Road ...

CA:
http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/drivebc_supp/canada_map.htm :
Canada Road Condition Information: Links to provincial highway condition websites across Canada..

Shameless Trolling For Touring Tips

NHTSA.dot.gov Vehicle Recalls RSS

SportRider.com: Motorcycle Riding Skills Series ÔÇô Street bike and motorcycle riding skills techniques articles at Sport Rider

BMW-Motorrad.com: Service
Electronic Parts Catalogue
Download Manuals
Breakdown Dictionary
Tyre Options
Tips
Before every journey
Before a log trip
Before winter
How to clean your motorcycle

ascycles.com: BMW Motorcycle Service and Maintenance Schedules

mic.org: Motorcycle Industry Council | Tire Guide 2011.pdf

Gasbuddy.com: Search for local gas prices along your trip route.

pure-gas.org: Ethanol-free gas stations in the U.S. And Canada

Cycle-ergo.com motorcycle ergonomic simulator.

Woot of the Day

MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual

: TIP: Good riders reduce their risk by using MSFÔÇÖs 3-step SEE strategy: Search ÔÇô Evaluate ÔÇô Execute. P.20 http://t.co/jLCSL9Kj

QOD: Why is it important to know the location of all motorcycle controls without looking? http://t.co/ZeWdUVYq


Bike Candy

Spy shot from the dress rehearsal for a future MOA WasserBoxer raffle ...

[mika]

DAKAR 2012 Update Stage 13











Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain - Rallye Dakar - Stage 13
14.01.2012
Dakar 2012, Stage 13
Nasca - Pisco
375 km in total, 275 km special test

Yet another top result

The penultimate stage of the Dakar 2012 provided one more strong result for the Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain. Joan Barreda and Paulo Goncalves finished not far behind today??s winner in what??s been the final demanding test of this year??s race.

Barreda and Goncalves were understandably aiming at a top score. They both delivered. Joan had closed in on Marc Coma soon after the start. But a small navigation mistake made him drop back for a little time. The talented Spaniard bounced back and then took command of the proceedings. He arrived at the finish in a well deserved fourth position.

Paulo Goncalves was just 33 seconds behind. The Portuguese earned fifth position on the day, after having made a minor mistake and still running with the front guys.

Jose Manuel Pellicer and Z?® H?®lio were having fun on the ride from Nasca to Pisco. The dunes and landscape proved fascinating and very challenging in terms of navigation.

Everything okay was the summary of the team ahead of the final stage. The Dakar 2012 ends tomorrow in Lima.
The Peruvian capital will be reached after 245 km of connecting stage and a very short special test (29 km).
Then it??s time to celebrate.

1. Helder Rodrigues (POR) Yamaha, 3:21:16 hrs
2. Cyril Despres (FRA) KTM, 0:47 min behind
3. Jordi Viladoms (SPA) KTM, 3:00
4. Joan Barreda (SPA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 5:13
5. Paulo Goncalves (POR) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 5:46
25. Jose Manuel Pellicer (SPA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 20:24
32. Z?® H?®lio (BRA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 30:23

Overall standings
1. Despres, 43:01:54 hrs
2. Marc Coma (SPA) KTM, 11:03 min behind
3. Rodrigues, 1:11:27
4. Viladoms, 1:41:12
5. Stefan Svitko (SVK) KTM, 1:49:36
11. Joan Barreda (SPA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 3:37:32
19. Z?® H?®lio (BRA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 6:12:59
21. Jose Manuel Pellicer (SPA), Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 6:51:39
26. Paulo Goncalves (POR) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 8:06:43


Dakar Blogs ÔÇô not a comprehensive list but ones that have shown up in previous news posts.

trackingdakar.com: Standings available for stages in many sorts.

bc2dakar.com: Bill Conger ÔÇô Husqvarna TE449

advrider.com: Dakar 2012 Official Event Coverage

advrider.com: Tales from the bivouac, Dakar 2012

[mika]

Members with Birthdays Today


SBK

suzuki-racing.com: Hopkins has fingertop amputated

bikesportnews.com: Hopins has troublesom finger top amputated

WORLDSBK: 2012 Race Calendar | Championship Standings Rider / Manufacturer

motogp



motogp: 2012 race calendar | Results and Statistics


Formula 1



Formula 1: 2012 Race Calendar | Results Season/Team/Driver


DAKAR 2012

fim-live.com: Despres all but the winner

jalopnik: Robby Gordon to inspectors ÔÇô Kiss my....



Dakar Blogs ÔÇô not a comprehensive list but ones that have shown up in previous news posts.

trackingdakar.com: Standings available for stages in many sorts.

bc2dakar.com: Bill Conger ÔÇô Husqvarna TE449

advrider.com: Dakar 2012 Official Event Coverage

advrider.com: Tales from the bivouac, Dakar 2012

On the Street

asphaltandrubber.com: 2012 Triumph Tiger Explorer gets $15,600 MSRP price tag

cyrilhuzeblog.com: Fast motorcycle industry news

Going to the London motorcycle show


The Mothership

[APPLICATION] Energy-optimized acceleration control for motor vehicles

NHTSA Campaign ID Number 12V0008000
Dated: JAN 10, 2012 BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2007-2011 MINI COOPER S, 2008-2011 MINI COOPER S CLUBMAN, 2009-2011 MINI COOPER S CONVERTIBLE, 2009-2011 MINI COOPER JCW, 2009-2011 MINI COOPER JCW CLUBMAN, 2009-20...


Cage World

brisbanetimes.com.au: Monte Carlo Rally in turmoil as series promoter terminated






Reference::

BMW MOA 2012 International Rally

SBK
2012 FIM Superbike Championship Calendar

[url=http://www.fim-live.com/fileadmin/alfresco/Codes_et_reglements/SBK_fr.pdf]FIM

Changes to the FIM Superbike, Supersport and Superstock regulations for 2012:
Some more details of changes to the championship regulations were delivered by the FIM in a press release.

FIM: Official Documents
Link to the current year official documents for all classes and search tool for other years.

FIA Regulations ÔÇô Formula 1 World Championship

WEATHER
US:
http://www.weather.gov/ | NOAA's National Weather Service
Select to go to the NWS homepage. National Weather Service - or - Follow the National Weather Service on FaceBook

http://www.weather.com | Bloomsburg, PA

CA:
http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/canada_e.html

ROAD CONDITIONS
US:
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/ : National Traffic and Road Closure Information
511 - America's Traveler Information Telephone Number; Construction Related; Local and State Transit Links; Traffic Conditions; Regional Links; Weather/Road ...

CA:
http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/drivebc_supp/canada_map.htm :
Canada Road Condition Information: Links to provincial highway condition websites across Canada..

Shameless Trolling For Touring Tips

NHTSA.dot.gov Vehicle Recalls RSS

SportRider.com: Motorcycle Riding Skills Series ÔÇô Street bike and motorcycle riding skills techniques articles at Sport Rider

BMW-Motorrad.com: Service
Electronic Parts Catalogue
Download Manuals
Breakdown Dictionary
Tyre Options
Tips
Before every journey
Before a log trip
Before winter
How to clean your motorcycle

ascycles.com: BMW Motorcycle Service and Maintenance Schedules

mic.org: Motorcycle Industry Council | Tire Guide 2011.pdf

Gasbuddy.com: Search for local gas prices along your trip route.

pure-gas.org: Ethanol-free gas stations in the U.S. And Canada

Cycle-ergo.com motorcycle ergonomic simulator.

Woot of the Day

MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual

TIP: Remember that deer travel in families, so where there's one, there's likely to be more. http://t.co/ZWxeceol

QOD: How should you react if your face protection is struck by a bug? http://t.co/SXarGCKb


Bike Candy

Before...


Ritmo-Sereno.com has great before and after pictures of their latest release. Here are but a few.

[mika]

DAKAR 2012 Update













Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain - Rallye Dakar ÔÇô Summary
15.01.2012
Dakar 2012, Summary

Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain earns six podium finishes

The Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain offers a positive summary of the recent Rally Dakar. Four out of five riders reached the finish in Lima. This debut result is highly encouraging for the team and the Husqvarna brand, as the new bike proved its worthiness right away - completing the race without a single technical failure.

The highlights were six podium finishes and one stage victory. This was part of the initial objective, which the team had targetted for the Dakar 2012. The team was consistenly fast with two riders regularly up front - even if the aim to put one pilot on the overall podium couldn??t be fulfilled.

The outstanding motivation of the team was tested with the jury decision against Paulo Goncalves. Also, Joan Barreda experienced bad luck during the stages three and four, when the talented Spaniard suffered from a crash and a broken rear wheel, which costed him a lot of valuable time. Barreda couldn??t make up the loss until the race end.

"Joan has the speed to run with the two best riders in the race," says team principal Wolfgang Fischer. "His stage results definitely give proof and he would have deserved to stand on the overall podium". Paulo Goncalves was most likely a top five finisher in Lima, if not for the incompehensible jury decision.

By the way: Joan Barreda was by many considered the revelation of this year??s Dakar. He was matching the speed of the top riders and is regarded as a man of the future.

Jose Manuel Pellicer performed as an excellent team addition. He was always there when needed, i.e. helping Barreda out of his rear wheel problem. Pellicer was a last-minute replacement, but he nevertheless integrated himself seemlessly into the team and earned everybody??s respect right away. Z?® H?®lio rode a steady race to finish inside the top twenty. His final result shows the depth of the field. Each year the Dakar becomes more and more competitive, especially at the front.

The Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain would like to use the opportunity and thank all sponsors and fans worldwide, who virtually followed the team throughout this spectacular race.

Finally, the team would like to extend the very best wishes to Ike Klaumann, their fifth rider. The Brazilian is on his way to a full recovery, after having to quit the race following a crash. The team returns home on Tuesday after the podium ceremony, where preparations for the new season will go underway.

Final standings
1. Cyril Despres (FRA) KTM 43:28:11 hrs
2. Marc Coma (SPA) KTM, 53:20 min behind
3. Helder Rodrigues (POR) Yamaha, 1:11:17
4. Jordi Viladoms (SPA) KTM, 1:40:56
5. Stefan Svitko (SVK) KTM, 1:47:28
11. Joan Barreda (SPA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 3:37:25
19. Z?® H?®lio (BRA) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 6:16:35
23. Jose Manuel Pellicer (SPA), Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 7:41:09
26. Paulo Goncalves (POR) Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 8:10:26

Manufacturer??s/Team statistics, podium finishes
1. KTM, 27
2. Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 6
3. Yamaha, 2
3. Sherco, 2
5. Aprilia, 1
5. Honda, 1


Dakar Blogs ÔÇô not a comprehensive list but ones that have shown up in previous news posts.

trackingdakar.com: Standings available for stages in many sorts.

bc2dakar.com: Bill Conger ÔÇô Husqvarna TE449

advrider.com: Dakar 2012 Official Event Coverage

advrider.com: Tales from the bivouac, Dakar 2012

[mika]

Members with Birthdays Today


motogp

superbikeplanet.com: Spies Suffers Food Poisoning At Indonesia Yamaha Function

motogp: 2012 race calendar | Results and Statistics


Formula 1

Lotusrenaultgp.com: Romain Grosjean ÔÇ£It's always something special to sit in a new car for the first timeÔÇØ

twitter.com: Sauber passes final crash test

speedtv.com: Kubica in hospital after leg surgery

temotorreport.com.au: F1 Ferrari to decide Massa's future by mid 2012

Formula 1: 2012 Race Calendar | Results Season/Team/Driver

Other Racing

fim-live.com: Despres relishes fourth Dakar success

fim-live.com: Coma second in Dakar 2012

ultimatemotorcycling.com: KTM Coma talks 2012 Dakar rusults

utlitmatemotorcycling.com: Dakar final results

race.com: Peter Hansel takes MINI to Dakar ein



On the Street



The Mothership

[APPLICATION]

Singapore. BMW Group Asia has concluded 2011 with a remarkable sales result. BMW Group Asia reported the total sales of 9,336 units of BMW and MINI automobiles, +17% compared to 2010, in its East Asia region, which includes 11 markets: Singapore, Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Brunei, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Mongolia, New Caledonia, Guam and Tahiti...MORE


Cage World

BMW Motorrad does.
Husqvarna definitely does.
BMWblog.com Editorial: Show BMW build a serious off roader?



FWIW

gizmag.com: GPS dog finder collar

Reference::

BMW MOA 2012 International Rally

SBK
2012 FIM Superbike Championship Calendar

[url=http://www.fim-live.com/fileadmin/alfresco/Codes_et_reglements/SBK_fr.pdf]FIM

Changes to the FIM Superbike, Supersport and Superstock regulations for 2012:
Some more details of changes to the championship regulations were delivered by the FIM in a press release.

FIM: Official Documents
Link to the current year official documents for all classes and search tool for other years.

FIA Regulations ÔÇô Formula 1 World Championship

WEATHER
US:
http://www.weather.gov/ | NOAA's National Weather Service
Select to go to the NWS homepage. National Weather Service - or - Follow the National Weather Service on FaceBook

http://www.weather.com | Bloomsburg, PA

CA:
http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/canada_e.html

ROAD CONDITIONS
US:
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/ : National Traffic and Road Closure Information
511 - America's Traveler Information Telephone Number; Construction Related; Local and State Transit Links; Traffic Conditions; Regional Links; Weather/Road ...

CA:
http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/drivebc_supp/canada_map.htm :
Canada Road Condition Information: Links to provincial highway condition websites across Canada..

Shameless Trolling For Touring Tips

NHTSA.dot.gov Vehicle Recalls RSS

SportRider.com: Motorcycle Riding Skills Series ÔÇô Street bike and motorcycle riding skills techniques articles at Sport Rider

BMW-Motorrad.com: Service
Electronic Parts Catalogue
Download Manuals
Breakdown Dictionary
Tyre Options
Tips
Before every journey
Before a log trip
Before winter
How to clean your motorcycle

ascycles.com: BMW Motorcycle Service and Maintenance Schedules

mic.org: Motorcycle Industry Council | Tire Guide 2011.pdf

Gasbuddy.com: Search for local gas prices along your trip route.

pure-gas.org: Ethanol-free gas stations in the U.S. And Canada

Cycle-ergo.com motorcycle ergonomic simulator.

Woot of the Day

MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual

TIP: Weighting the inside axle of the gyro (aka the foot peg) helps turn your bike into the corner http://t.co/ZWxeceol

QOD: What is the best way to straighten your motorcycle if it starts to wobble? http://t.co/BdrlkjkD


Bike Candy

[mika]

The Mothership

BMW Motorrad achieves the best sales result of its history. Strong growth in Germany, France and overseas. Husqvarna Motorcycles achieves solid retail result.

16.01.2012

Munich. BMW Motorrad sold more motorcycles in 2011 than ever before in its almost 90-year history with a total of 104,286 units sold (previous year: 98,047 units). This is an increase of 6.4% over the result of the previous year, which was itself impressive. For twelve months in succession in 2011, more motorcycles were sold than in 2010.

This puts the 2011 sales result well above the previous all-time high which dates back to the year 2007 (102,467 units).

In the relevant market segment of capacity classes over 500 cc, BMW was able to expand its world market share to over 12%, thereby virtually doubling it within just four years.

Hendrik von Kuenheim, General Director of BMW Motorrad: "This outstanding sales result shows that we are on the right track in terms of our product and market strategy. We have achieved yet another sales record within a persistently challenging market environment. At the same time we have been able to take on market leadership and strengthen our market position in over 15 countries. In business performance terms we anticipate an all-time high in fiscal 2011 for both turnover and revenue. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our customers worldwide most sincerely for the trust they have placed in BMW Motorrad."

Strong growth in Germany, France and overseas.
BMW Motorrad sales developed in different ways worldwide based on the varying economic situation of the individual markets.

Germany was once again the largest market as well as showing the most powerful growth in sales. The total figure was 20,002 vehicles - in other words 2,846 motorcycles or 16.6 % more than in 2010. BMW Motorrad thus asserted its market leadership in the segment over 500 cc. The market share of newly registered motorcycles was extended by 1.7 % to 24.9 %. This means that one in four newly registered motorcycles over 500 cc in Germany came from the BMW Motorrad plant in Berlin.

As in the previous year, Italy was the second strongest market. Here sales amounted to 13,600 motorcycles (previous year: 14,234 units/ - 4.5 %) units. With the Italian motorcycle market in decline overall, BMW Motorrad sold 634 fewer motorcycles than in the previous year but was nonetheless able to significantly extend its market position and take over volume leadership. The BMW Motorrad market share in the segment over 500 cc rose to 19.9 % (previous year: 18.4 %).
The other major sales markets in order of size were USA (10,203 units / +7.4%) and France (9,850 units / +15.0 %).

After Germany, BMW Motorrad achieved its biggest sales increase in Brazil (5,442 units / + 55.2 %). Within just a few years, this market has developed into one of the biggest for BMW Motorrad. In order to do justice to the growing significance of Brazil, BMW Motorrad now produces the G 650 GS, the F 800 R and the F 800 GS in Manaus for the local market.

Virtually all the other Latin American markets developed very positively for BMW Motorrad overall, as did the markets of Eastern Europe and Asia.

R 1200 GS still the most successful BMW motorcycle.
The big travel enduro BMW R 1200 GS was once again the most successful model in 2011 with 18,413 units sold (previous year: 18,768 units), followed by its sibling model the R 1200 GS Adventure, with 10,453 units (previous year: 11,648 units).
The medium category enduro F 800 GS finishes third with 9,829 units, followed closely by the touring classic BMW R 1200 RT (9,540 units) and the supersports bike S 1000 RR (9,044 units). The super touring models K 1600 GT and K 1600 GTL launched in the spring of 2011 were sold to a total of 8,019 customers worldwide. Outstanding sales figures were also achieved by the roadster models F 800 R (7,986 units), R 1200 R (7,310 unit) as well as the enduro F 650 GS (6,145 units).

BMW Motorrad - a look ahead to 2012.
With the new G 650 GS Sertao, the revised S 1000 RR, the special boxer model R 1200 GS Rallye and the special models K 1300 R and K 1300 S, BMW Motorrad has once again enhanced its extensive product portfolio for the 2012 motorcycling season. What is more, the first BMW maxi-scooters C 600 Sport and C 650 GT are due to line up for launch this spring. With these scooter models, BMW Motorrad is expanding its range to include the facet of Urban Mobility.

Based on this ongoing product offensive, BMW Motorrad looks confidently ahead to the upcoming season in spite of economic developments in some countries.

Husqvarna Motorcycles achieves solid retail result.
The capacity segment of 51 to 750 cc relevant to Husqvarna Motorcycles once again declined heavily in 2011. In this tough market environment, Husqvarna Motorcycles supplied a total of 9,286 motorcycles (previous year: 12,066 units / -23.0 %) to its dealer network. Due to the structural measures initiated within the worldwide Husqvarna sales network in 2011, however, actual retail figures for the past season significantly exceed factory supplies. A total of 11,243 Husqvarna bikes were delivered to customers.

The most popular models from the traditional single-cylinder sports area (enduro, supermoto, motocross) were the 250/310 cc and the 449/511 cc single-cylinder 4-stroke models.

The new Husqvarna 2-cylinder road models NUDA 900 and NUDA 900R were launched in autumn 2011 to a very positive media response. They mark a milestone in Husqvarna's company history. They are the first completely new motorcycles to be developed in collaboration with BMW Motorrad, at the same time marking the comeback of the Husqvarna brand in market for road motorcycles.
The new yet characteristic Husqvarna vehicle concept between supermoto and naked bike is now generating a very pleasing level of customer demand. The market launch was in December 2011. 605 vehicles were supplied to the dealer network by the end of 2011.

With the presentation of the close-to-series Concept Strada at the motorcycle exhibition in Paris in November 2011, Husqvarna sent out another clear signal to mark the continuation of its model offensive. With upcoming new products and further restructuring and extension of its worldwide sales network, the Italian manufacturer is anticipating perceptible growth in this year's motorcycle season.


FWIW - Let the parsing...err...analysis begin

[mika]

Members with Birthdays Today


SBK

crash.net: Rea set for first test on 2012 Fireblade

gpone.com: Andrew Pitt walks away

WORLDSBK: 2012 Race Calendar | Championship Standings Rider / Manufacturer

motogp

motogp.com: Guareschi tips Redding as potential MotoGP star

motomatters.com: Ducati to test brand new GP12 at Jerez

motogp: 2012 race calendar | Results and Statistics


Formula 1

formula1.com: Honer ÔÇô Melbourn's what matters

autosport.com ÔÇô premium feature ÔÇô Unlocking F1 tyre secrets

Formula 1: 2012 Race Calendar | Results Season/Team/Driver

Other Racing

fim-live.com: Enduro star Mika Ahola dies

gizmag.com: MINI dominates the Dakar Rally

fim-live.com: Camelia crowns her Dakar with the 9th position overall

Winter 'drives' you to crazy forms of racing...it was cold but great fun to watch


On the Street

dealernews.com: Harley-Davidson adds engines to remanufacturing program

cyrilhuzeblog.com: Cute custom Jawa Toe Cutter









The Mothership

bmw-motorrad.com: Track test victory for the RR

Cage World

fia.com: WRC Manufacturers for 2012



FWIW

I have previously observed that corporate annual reports are works of creative non-fiction intended to tell a companies tail with a certain perspective. If they are creative non-fiction press releases are Creative, with a big capital C, non-fiction.

Normally the BMW Motorrad sales press release would have me digging into annual reports to verify which number they set a record with. There are three numbers that can yield a record even if two of them don't. Annual reports can track unit production, units shipped, and units delivered. The clever publicist can turn a ramp up in production for a new model into a record when bikes shipped to dealers or actually delivered to buyers may be flat or even declining. Normally the pedantic side of me would do the research but not this time.

I have the question, 'what are you going to do in 2012', echoing in the back of my mind as I read the press release. While doing some digging on another topic I came across this bit from September 2007.

Growth Targets

The BMW Group is going to continue its product initiative.
The BMW Group aims to achieve retail sales of more than 1.8 million vehicles by 2012.
By then, the BMW Group plans to increase deliveries in the motorcycle business by 50% to 150,000 units per annum.
The company intends to increase retail sales in the automobile business to clearly more than two million vehicles by 2020


In bench racing terms business is endurance racing and much can happen during an endurance race. The growth targets were included in a speech by Dr.Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management BMW AG [Team General Manager for this metaphor]. The occasion was the announcement of a reorganization of the company . BMW had undergone six years of navel gazing. It had cleaned out the lint found and the good Dr. was laying out his vision [lap time goals] of the company for 2012 [the next segment of the race].

The BMW Motorcycle Segment had posted record sales for 2006 and would build on them for the next two years. At the time of the speech there were only a few of us that were wondering how long before the motorcycle industry would enter a market corner to hot and crash. There were troubling signs in the market. We hoped it would be a low-side and the industry would get up dust itself off pick up the bike and start riding again. Yet in the back of our minds we feared a high-side crash that would require the corner workers and emergency crews to come to the rescue followed by an undetermined recovery time before riding at full song again. Much of the industry did suffer a high-side and is only starting to get out riding again after a long convalescence. BMW Motorcycle Segment had a low-side and has been back on the bike again.

The figures for 2011 are great but how will the team do in 2012 in relation to the benchmark that has been given? I don't have any answers but here are the questions that come to mind.

GS/GSA
The GS line was the team leader in 2011. Will it continue its growth in 2012 or will anticipation of the WasserBoxer keep would be buyers in this segment on the sidelines until 2013?

S 1000 RR
The superbike segment appears to have stabilized after shrinking drastically. New and improved for 2012 the S100RR is already winning the press over. Will it continue to win in the showroom. My guess is yes. But what kind of grow if any can this segment add beyond what it has to get closer to the benchmark?

K1600GT/GTL
These models showed solid sales performance. Like the RR they may well have carved out their share of their market niches and will do well to maintain or grow incrementally in the coming year.

The rest of the line up appears to be performing admirably but along the same lines.

C 600 S/GT
The two scooters coming to a showroom near you and elsewhere are the new bikes on the team that can bring big numbers. But how big? BMW's last entry into the scooter market was the C1. Quirky and in a lower end of the scooter segment than the maxi-scooters will compete in its annual production maxed out at 10,614 units for 2001. If the maxi-scooters turn in a year to match that would slot them in to compete with the RR and RT for third place in the lineup.

Husqvarna
The segments Team Red compete in have suffered a major get off. This has left Husqvarna with too much inventory for the markets they compete in. The new Nuda and Strada expand the product line and hopefully will bring in more customers to increase the numbers. However, new markets not niches may be what Husky needs to grow sales.

New Markets
South America may provide the model for new markets. BMW has been increasing sales and market share with its Complete Knock Down (CKD) assembly plant agreement. Working with a Brazilian partner it assembles kit bikes and avoids complete bike import tariffs in the process. This has gone a long way to growing South American sales for BMW. They have expanded the product line assembled. Look for this to continue and expand even more.

It won't happen in time to impact 2012 sales numbers but look for the CKD model to be taken elsewhere. Currently in addition to CKD motorcycle production in Brazil, the BMW Group uses CKD assembly to manufacture automobiles with partners in six locations (Thailand, Malaysia, Russia, Egypt, Indonesia and India). Of these six plants India provides the most likely market to try and replicate the South American success.

Using BMW AG numbers, Husqvarna's Cassinetta production capacity amounts to 160 motorcycles per day - per shift thanks to its three motorcycles assembly lines. Additionally two engines assembly lines are able to produce up to 8 different 2 stroke engines typologies and 7 different 4 stroke engines typologies, for a total production capacity of 160 engines per day. I will let you decide the work week and production days in a year to come up with your potential production number. Given their current production numbers there is excess capacity that could be used to produce CKD models to ship and sell in India. This would overcome the significant tariffs BMW currently faces exporting bikes to the sub-continent.

All in all a long winded way of saying, if I were a share holder, nice 2011 BMW what are you going to do for me in 2012. I'm not a share holder but the owner of a R1150R. I have babbled long enough. It's time to head down to the official coffee shop and follow up on a lead for garage space in which to work on the bike. Then off to make a buck to pay the rent or the next cup of coffee. I'll leave the bench-racing of BMW sales figures and future in your hands for now.


Reference::

BMW MOA 2012 International Rally

SBK
2012 FIM Superbike Championship Calendar

[url=http://www.fim-live.com/fileadmin/alfresco/Codes_et_reglements/SBK_fr.pdf]FIM

Changes to the FIM Superbike, Supersport and Superstock regulations for 2012:
Some more details of changes to the championship regulations were delivered by the FIM in a press release.

FIM: Official Documents
Link to the current year official documents for all classes and search tool for other years.

FIA Regulations ÔÇô Formula 1 World Championship

WEATHER
US:
http://www.weather.gov/ | NOAA's National Weather Service
Select to go to the NWS homepage. National Weather Service - or - Follow the National Weather Service on FaceBook

http://www.weather.com | Bloomsburg, PA

CA:
http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/canada_e.html

ROAD CONDITIONS
US:
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/ : National Traffic and Road Closure Information
511 - America's Traveler Information Telephone Number; Construction Related; Local and State Transit Links; Traffic Conditions; Regional Links; Weather/Road ...

CA:
http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/drivebc_supp/canada_map.htm :
Canada Road Condition Information: Links to provincial highway condition websites across Canada..

Shameless Trolling For Touring Tips

NHTSA.dot.gov Vehicle Recalls RSS

SportRider.com: Motorcycle Riding Skills Series ÔÇô Street bike and motorcycle riding skills techniques articles at Sport Rider

BMW-Motorrad.com: Service
Electronic Parts Catalogue
Download Manuals
Breakdown Dictionary
Tyre Options
Tips
Before every journey
Before a log trip
Before winter
How to clean your motorcycle

ascycles.com: BMW Motorcycle Service and Maintenance Schedules

mic.org: Motorcycle Industry Council | Tire Guide 2011.pdf

Gasbuddy.com: Search for local gas prices along your trip route.

pure-gas.org: Ethanol-free gas stations in the U.S. And Canada

Cycle-ergo.com motorcycle ergonomic simulator.

Woot of the Day

MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual

TIP: Remember that deer travel in families, so where there's one, there's likely to be more. http://t.co/ZWxeceol

QOD: How should you react if your face protection is struck by a bug? http://t.co/SXarGCKb


Bike Candy

Royal Enfield sells a Caf?® Racer Kit. This is not one of those. I don't have information on the builder but...











...I Like It!

[mika]

Members with Birthdays Today


SBK

bikesportnews.com: Wright turned down six figure job as BMW SBK boss

[url=http://www.worldsbk.com/en/news/5-news/9897-pedercini-confirms-salom-and-mercado-for-2012-season.html]worldsbk.com[.url]: Pedercini confirms Salom and Mercado for 2012
kawasakiraicngtea.eu: Press release



WORLDSBK: 2012 Race Calendar | Championship Standings Rider / Manufacturer

motogp

eurosport.yahoo.com: Dorna wants competitive CRT bikes

motogp: 2012 race calendar | Results and Statistics


Formula 1

speedtv.com: Ferrari not ruling out Ferrari future for Adrian Newey

eurosport.yahoo.com: Tech talk ÔÇô Big rule changes for 2012

formula1.com: Sena to race for Williams in 2012



Formula 1: 2012 Race Calendar | Results Season/Team/Driver

Other Racing



On the Street

motorradonline.de: Motorrad road tests the S 1000 RR

thekneeslider.com: Radial bi rotary balance piston combustion engine

motorcycle.com: Brammo expansion plans focus on off road

cycleworld.com: 1981 R80GS ÔÇô Feture ÔÇô we didn't know it yet but the adventure bike was born

asphaltandrubber.com: BMW Motorrad sales ÔÇô the anatomy behind BMW Motorrad's sales dominion









The Mothership




Cage World

roadandtrack.com: Fiat 500 limousine

girlracer.co.uk: MINI WRC Team set for the Monte Carlo Rally






Reference::

BMW MOA 2012 International Rally

SBK
2012 FIM Superbike Championship Calendar

[url=http://www.fim-live.com/fileadmin/alfresco/Codes_et_reglements/SBK_fr.pdf]FIM

Changes to the FIM Superbike, Supersport and Superstock regulations for 2012:
Some more details of changes to the championship regulations were delivered by the FIM in a press release.

FIM: Official Documents
Link to the current year official documents for all classes and search tool for other years.

FIA Regulations ÔÇô Formula 1 World Championship

WEATHER
US:
http://www.weather.gov/ | NOAA's National Weather Service
Select to go to the NWS homepage. National Weather Service - or - Follow the National Weather Service on FaceBook

http://www.weather.com | Bloomsburg, PA

CA:
http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/canada_e.html

ROAD CONDITIONS
US:
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/ : National Traffic and Road Closure Information
511 - America's Traveler Information Telephone Number; Construction Related; Local and State Transit Links; Traffic Conditions; Regional Links; Weather/Road ...

CA:
http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/drivebc_supp/canada_map.htm :
Canada Road Condition Information: Links to provincial highway condition websites across Canada..

Shameless Trolling For Touring Tips

NHTSA.dot.gov Vehicle Recalls RSS

SportRider.com: Motorcycle Riding Skills Series ÔÇô Street bike and motorcycle riding skills techniques articles at Sport Rider

BMW-Motorrad.com: Service
Electronic Parts Catalogue
Download Manuals
Breakdown Dictionary
Tyre Options
Tips
Before every journey
Before a log trip
Before winter
How to clean your motorcycle

ascycles.com: BMW Motorcycle Service and Maintenance Schedules

mic.org: Motorcycle Industry Council | Tire Guide 2011.pdf

Gasbuddy.com: Search for local gas prices along your trip route.

pure-gas.org: Ethanol-free gas stations in the U.S. And Canada

Cycle-ergo.com motorcycle ergonomic simulator.

Woot of the Day

MSF Motorcycle Operators Manual

TIP: If you ride at night, you might add an auxiliary driving light wired into the high-beam circuit. Check local equipment laws.

QOD: What is the most important thing you can wear to improve your chances of surviving a crash? http://t.co/XG3hM3Yf


Bike Candy