BMW Motorrad was voted “Motorcycle of the Year 2010" in the readers' vote of the motorcycle magazine MOTORRAD, with clear victories in all five categories in which BMW motorcycles were represented - the best result ever achieved by a manufacturer in the history of the vote.

“I am very glad to hear of the outstanding success of our motorcycles and would like to thank the readers of MOTORRAD most sincerely for their votes. As I see it, this is a great sign of confidence and reflects the enormous enthusiasm for our products. I am particularly pleased that BMW Motorrad was able to achieve a top ranking in reader popularity so quickly with the S 1000 RR - after all, we have entered new territory with this model," said Hendrik von Kuenheim, Head of BMW Motorrad, commenting on the result of the vote.

With BMW Motorrad represented in the “Sports” category with a 4-cylinder supersports bike for the first time, the new BMW S 1000 RR won this hotly competed class the first time round, thereby underscoring its outstanding technical conception combining top-class 4-cylinder performance with Race ABS and Dynamic Traction Control DTC.

The “Touring bike” category was won by the BMW K 1300 GT, with the BMW R 1200 RT finishing in third place. “This excellent result underpins the outstanding importance of BMW motorcycles when it comes to fast, comfortable and in particular safe motorcycle travel," von Kuenheim went on to say.

The BMW R 1200 GS and R 1200 GS Adventure were able to re-assert their leading position in the market segment in the traditional MOTORRAD readership vote, finishing first in the category "Enduro/Supermoto". 4th position for the R 1200 Megamoto and 5th for the F 800 GS further highlighted the dominance of BMW motorcycles in this category.

Like last year, BMW Motorrad also won first place in the categories “All-rounders” and “Naked bikes”. Here it was the high-action BMW models K 1300 S and R 1200 R which once again impressed readers most.

In addition to individual rankings in the various categories, BMW motorcycles also dominated the relevant brand rankings, which were won in four cases.
 
Parallel to the voting for “Motorcycle of the Year 2010" the annual reader’s voting “Best Brand 2010” took place. In 19 product categories the readers could vote for their most convincing brands in the main categories “Riders and Motorcycle Equipment”. BMW Motorrad Rider’s Equipment won the category “Textile clothes”.

The award ceremony was held at the “Motorräder Dortmund 2010” trade fair on March 4th 2010 at 6 pm in the Restaurant Strobels in Dortmund. No less than 200 candidates in a total of eight categories entered the “Motorcycle of the Year” vote to compete for the coveted titles: held in 2010 for the 12th time, it is regarded as the most important readers’ vote for motorcycles and scooters in the whole of Europe. Over half a million have taken part in the vote since 1999.

Being seen is an important part of safety when you're riding a motorcycle. A motorcycle has far less visual presence as a car, truck, or SUV so riders have to ride safely and consider that they might be invisible to other motorists.

A UK campaign reminds drivers to watch out for motorcyclists. I found it pretty clever and has a catchy little tune too. If only you could be this visible! Hope you enjoy it too.

We came across an interesting products for those days you're out on the road, or you ride you bike to work only to have your bike rained on mercilessly! Now, a bit of rain won't really hurt your bike but what if you could take a lost cost cover with you for those occasions? What if that cover fit in your pocket?  What if it were eco-friendly so once it's worn out you can just toss it?

Enter the "Bike Condom" - yes, that's the name of the company -  and they produce a one size fits all bike cover they've dubbed the bike condom.

They cost $5.99 USD and can apparently can be reused several times. Best part - they fit in your pocket so you can easily find space for one on your bike somewhere. Shipping is supposedly free but there's no indication whether they ship to Canada on their website.  They're looking for distributors and retailers too.

If you're interested in learning more about "Bike Condoms" check out their website HERE.

Get in early if you plan on attending this one. Spots go VERY quickly!

Full details:


The on-line sign up for the Paris to Dacre Dualsport Challenge is this Saturday the 6th.  I would also like to clarify some details that many people are asking, and others may be wondering.

At 12:01 am the on-line entry form will become visible (it is currently not accessible).  One member of the team can pay at one time for all of the riders on the team if required (not everyone is into Paypal).  However, each rider must still send his entry in separately and whomever is paying for all must make sure to enter their Team Members names that they are paying for in the "special instructions to merchant" box while completing the transaction (within Paypal area).  Example:  Hi there, I am paying in full for team "Eat my Dust", with members - Bob Labla, Phil Mein, Lucky Bugger, Doug Sumdirt (real names please).

- Each member must fill in an entry.
- You can pay for your personal entry at that time as well.
- If you prefer, one of the other members of your team can pay on your behalf while they enter themselves.  A comment must explain who the payment is for.
- Make sure you either quote your team name or your members
- No single riders.  You must ride as a team of 3 to 5 max.  If you have 6 people, make 2 teams.  Each person must be registered individually.
- Starting numbers of the teams will be drawn at random, however if you wish to ride near the back of the pack we can accomodate.
- Further P2D newsletters will be released in the coming months, to entrants only, to help with your preparation.

It is a 16hr long day of riding, and it must be taken seriously.  It is attainable, many people have proven this fact.  But, it is not easy.  That's why it is called a Challenge.  You do not need to be a superstar, but you do need the right frame of mind.  The event covers a wide variety to terrain types, so you and your machine must be versatile.  Working as a team adds to the challenge, and will be an advantage if done right.

March 6th is for teams that have at least 1 member who has ridden in this event before.  This is a very important factor, as this person will have an understanding of what it takes to complete the event.
March 20th is for those teams that are new to the event.  The maximum entry size has been expanded this year to encourage new teams.

Remember - the last running of the P2D was sold out in 12 hours.  This year we are reserving a percentage of the entry for new teams.  

image courtesy ADVRider

Toyota Truck presents the season premiere of Motorcycle Experience this Saturday!

When: Saturday  March 06 at 11:30 AM* on TSN and TSN HD.

Join us as we “keep your right hand cranked” for our 21st season of Canadian motorcycle television!

In this episode:

- Host Dave Hatch visits the FAST riding school in Shannonville, Ontario
- Former National 600 Sportbike Champion Clint McBain discuses trailer safety
- This week’s guest rider Tamara Morin samples the all new Suzuki SFV650 Gladius
- Scooter Sense host Bryan Hudgin starts his Almost World Tour in Montreal, Quebec
- Dave and Norm kick off a new Ultimate Rides tour in Phoenix, Arizona

Motorcycle Experience is created with the support of our very good friends at Toyota Canada, Yamaha Motor Canada, Honda Canada, BMW Motorrad, Suzuki Canada, and Motovan.

Show host Dave Hatch enthusiastically endorses Joe Rocket riding gear and Shoei helmets.
For more info visit www.motorcycleexperience.ca

Motorcycle Experience - Episode 1 will also be repeated on TSN and TSN HD at;

Tuesday March 11 - 03:00 AM*
Tuesday March 11 - 12:30 PM*
Saturday March 13 - 00:00 AM*

Motorcycle Experience - Episode 1 will also broadcast on TSN 2 at;

Saturday  March 06 at 14:30 PM*
Sunday March 07 - 06:00 AM*
Thursday March 11 - 15:30 PM*
Saturday March 13 - 03:00 AM*

 (*all times eastern)

Deeley Harley-Davidson Canada Inaugurates Ladies Taking Their First Steps of an Incredible Journey with Motorcycles at Garage Party Events


Starting in March, Deeley Harley-Davidson Canada is promoting a series of Garage Party events across Canada. These events will offer the perfect platform for women throughout Canada who do not have their licence yet, to start out on an incredible journey together; that of experiencing the art of motorcycling.


At Garage Party events, over 60 authorized Canadian Harley-Davidson Retailers will be offering aspiring female riders the opportunity to learn more about how to get a motorcycle licence, to experience the latest Harley-Davidson fashions specifically tailored for women, and to try out motorcycles in a fun and interactive way.

Not only can Garage Party event guests meet other like-minded women on this empowering journey, but a national contest (www.garageparty.ca) also allows entrants to win prizes, including a breath-taking biker-style make-over with a one-on-one image consultation offered by Your Shop Girl, a shopping spree at a Harley-Davidson® Retail Store, a complimentary beginner’s rider training course, as well as VIP access for two to Precious Metal 2010, the most decadent and exclusive Garage Party event of the year, held in Toronto and hosted by Billie from Virgin 99.9. Tickets to this event will be available for purchase by the public for $75 beginning Monday, March 15, at www.garageparty.ca.

This event will be in support of Rethink Breast Cancer as part of a broader initiative with women as its focal point, complemented by the recently launched Canadian Harley-Davidson Pink Label Collection.

Tagged with the motto “Purchase with a Purpose”, the Canadian Pink Label Collection is comprised of 12 of the most popular women’s Harley-Davidson MotorClothes silhouettes – each featuring a tasteful touch of pink – including jackets, pants, eyewear, gloves, helmets, and shirts, which participating Retailers will have on display.

For further information on how you, too, can start out on an incredible journey at your nearest Garage Party event, please refer to www.garageparty.ca.

Great video from Ducati showing the new Multistrada tearing up some tarmac and on some not too tough dirt roads.

I don't know who chose the music though.  Still - it's definitely worth a watch!

Improved Performance and a New Look Among Enhancements for 2010!

After a breakthrough year in which it became the global leader in the electric motorcycle industry, Zero Motorcycles announced today the highly anticipated launch of its 2010 product line, including the Zero S, DS, X, and MX. With added power, increased acceleration, and enhanced power pack technology, Zero Motorcycles is continuing the innovation it's known for and taking electric motorcycle technology to the next level. The street legal models are equipped with performance enhancements that allow for higher top speeds and greater acceleration. The entire lineup also features improvements in power pack technology and color graphics for the first time. The 2010 product launch makes Zero Motorcycles the first and only electric motorcycle company to launch four distinct models worldwide.

“Zero Motorcycles continues to blaze the path for electric motorcycle technology. Our engineering team has revamped, redesigned and tested four models that have considerable improvements for 2010. The result is more power on the street, a new look and an unparalleled riding experience," said Gene Banman, CEO, Zero Motorcycles. "Demand in 2009 pushed us to aggressively expand our presence across the United States and around the world. The enhancements to this year's models will resonate with both serious riders and casual motorcycle enthusiasts on a global level."

Among the most significant advances on the 2010 Zero S and DS is the revolutionary Z-Force™ Air Induction System. A platform for performance, this system allows Zero to produce more horsepower from lighter and more compact motors by increasing the airflow through the heart of the motor. Zero is also introducing a new throttle technology that modulates the increased power to provide riders with exacting control over the acceleration. All 2010 motorcycles are powered using Z-Force™ power pack technology with new and more precise cell monitoring. The cumulative result of all this technology is a longer power pack life, more power, greater acceleration off the line and superior handling.

In addition to the increased performance capabilities, consumers now can choose between color graphic packages or Zero’s classic white on all four models, allowing riders to express themselves through personalized styling. New seat configurations are also an option for the 2010 Zero S and DS. Specially designed by Corbin, the new seats provide a more comfortable and performance-oriented ride. Those interested in reducing the stand over height of the motorcycle can now select a Corbin low seat option. The entire product line continues to be built from the ground up using Zero’s signature exposed aircraft grade alloy frame.

NOTE: All prices listed in this Press Release are in US dollars so expect them to be higher here.  We wanted to leave them in though so you could get an idea of what they'd cost, based on their stateside pricing.

Zero S

Instant torque and power from a standstill, plus smooth acceleration as you race out of turns—all without ever needing to stop at a gas station. Developed to aggressively take on urban environments and encourage the occasional detour, the Zero S electric motorcycle integrates revolutionary technology with innovative motorcycle design. Built from the ground up using Zero Motorcycles' proprietary Z-Force power pack and aircraft grade alloy frame, the Zero S features an industry leading power-to-weight ratio that increases its range and maneuverability. At 270lbs, the Zero S has a range of up to 50 miles and a GPS verified top speed of 67 MPH. The Zero S is designed for optimal performance off the line, in sharp turns and while navigating obstacles. Instant acceleration and lightweight design enable the Zero S to take on any city street, hill or obstacle, combining exhilaration with efficiency.

The Zero S is priced at $8,995 (after a 10% U.S. federal tax credit). Some states and provinces offer additional incentives. Consumer financing is available in the United States for those who qualify. The motorcycle can be purchased online now and will begin shipping in the United States at the end of March. The Zero S comes with a 2-year limited warranty.

Zero DS

The Zero DS combines innovation with passion to deliver the world's most versatile electric motorcycle. Created to be agile in the dirt and quick on the street, the Zero DS represents a new kind of freedom. Tough when you demand it and distinguished when required, the Zero DS has an edgy, yet sophisticated appearance highlighted by an eye catching twin spar frame that is both rigid and lightweight. Powered by the most advanced drive train in the industry, the Zero DS is a fully electric motorcycle that can handle any surface you can throw at it. Navigating obstacles and maintaining control is assured using a specially developed suspension system and a rugged wheel set. During technical maneuvers an optimized direct drive gear system delivers astonishing responsiveness with the twist of your wrist.

The Zero DS is priced at $8,995 (after a 10% U.S. federal tax credit). Some states and provinces offer additional incentives. Consumer financing is available in the United States for those who qualify. The motorcycle can be purchased online now and will begin shipping in the United States at the end of April. The Zero DS comes with a 2-year limited warranty.

Zero MX

The Zero MX takes Zero’s revolutionary electric motorcycle technology to the track. Designed for bigger jumps and smooth landings, the Zero MX uses a newly-developed suspension system to absorb aggressive terrain. Incredibly tough and lightweight, the Zero MX combines the state-of-the-art Z-Force™ battery technology with an ultra-light frame design, making it agile and fast where it counts most. The custom suspension system makes the Zero MX highly responsive while maintaining an industry leading power-to-weight ratio, allowing for controlled landings and total control. An individual power pack provides up to two hours of track riding time. Easily swappable, riders can purchase an additional power pack to extend their riding. Incredibly powerful, while almost completely silent, the Zero MX opens up a whole new world of riding possibilities.

The Zero MX starts at $8,295. Some countries or states may offer incentives. Consumer financing is available in the United States for those who qualify. The motorcycle can be purchased online now and will begin shipping in the United States at the end of March. The Zero MX comes with a 2-year limited warranty.

Zero X


With instant acceleration and a total weight of 151 pounds, the Zero X is a high performance electric motorcycle that takes technical trail riding to the next level. Using Zero’s patented Z-Force™ technology and boasting 50 ft-lbs of torque, this stealthy motorcycle will send you racing up hills, flying over jumps, and cutting through streams. The Zero X is built from the ground up for quick handling and maneuverability. Custom valved suspension, direct drive gearing and weight optimized components allow riders to master demanding terrain. Lightweight, silent and quick, the Zero X opens up trail riding possibilities that would otherwise be out of the question. To extend ride times customers have the option to purchase an extra power pack that can be swapped with a quick pit stop.

The Zero X starts at $7,495. Some countries or states may offer incentives. Consumer financing is available in the United States for those who qualify. The motorcycle can be purchased online now and will begin shipping in the United States at the end of March. The Zero X comes with a 2-year limited warranty.

BMW Motorrad Canada achieved an all time February record with 70 units retailed, an increase of 46%over the same period in 2009, bringing Motorrad YTD retails to 124 units.


The success of the BMW Group has always been built on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy. As a result of its efforts, the BMW Group has been ranked industry leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes for the last five years.

There are 19 BMW motorcycle retailers across the country.

Phillip Island (Australia), Saturday 27th February : the first Superpole of the 2010 World Superbike season took place this afternoon at a breezy Phillip Island, and Ducati Xerox rider Michel Fabrizio was undoubtedly one of the protagonists, putting in a strong and consistent performance to snatch second place on tomorrow’s grid, and missing out on pole by just a fraction of a second. Team-mate Noriyuki Haga had a more difficult time, qualifying in tenth place for the opening races of the year. Of the first ten bikes on tomorrow’s grid, five are Ducati 1198s, yet another a demonstration of the bike’s competitiveness.

In this morning’s qualifying, and on a much cooler track compared to yesterday, the three fastest riders from yesterday, Checa, Fabrizio and Haslam did not manage to improve on their best times but they nevertheless held on the top three spots on the timesheet, qualifying first to third for the afternoon’s Superpole. Noriyuki, maintaining a similar pace to yesterday, preferred to work with a used tyre than change to a fresh one in the final minutes to record a fast lap, meaning that he qualified for Superpole in fourteenth place. It is interesting to note that the fastest seventeen riders lapped within seven tenths of a second of each other, a sure sign that this year’s championship will be extremely hard fought.

As expected, Superpole was a close battle between the top eight. In the first of the three phases, 14 minutes in length, Nori immediately recorded a time fast enough for him to be able to return to the garage, safe in the knowledge that he had done enough. Michel meanwhile needed a tyre change before his fastest lap propelled him up the timesheets to third place, to easily proceed to phase two along with his team-mate.

In the second mini-Superpole both factory riders went out on qualifiers, Michel making a fast lap and Nori changing tyre mid-session. What seemed to be a clean lap for Haga unfortunately failed to equate to a fast enough lap, due to an apparent lack of rear grip which meant that Haga’s Superpole finished here, with the tenth fastest time of the afternoon, although only two tenths off Michel’s pace in the same session.

Michel, who still had a qualifier left to use in the final phase, pushed to the limit and it seemed that the pole position was within his grasp, but it all came down to a fraction of a second, with Michel ultimately closing in second place, just 0.016 of a second from Haslam on the Suzuki. Lining up in the first eight on tomorrow’s grid are also the Ducati 1198s of Checa (Althea Racing) in fourth and Smrz (Team Pata B&G Racing) in sixth.

Three-time world champion Troy Bayliss is once again special guest at the Phillip Island circuit this weekend  and it was he who presented former team-mate Michel Fabrizio with his Superpole trophy today. Troy will continue to work as a Ducati “ambassador” in 2010.

Michel Fabrizio
“Today’s Superpole was very difficult but I am very happy with the final result. I lost out on the pole by just a fraction of a second which is a shame, but it’s not the first time that that has happened and the important thing is that I’m on the front row tomorrow. I was happy with my flying lap, a clean lap, with no-one in front of me. Tomorrow will be an equally difficult challenge, and various riders, me, Haslam, Checa, Biaggi and Nori will surely be in contention. We know we have a good race pace and I’m feeling confident for the races.”

Noriyuki Haga
“In the second phase of the Superpole I went out on a race tyre but even though it felt like a clean lap, the time was not quick enough and unfortunately that put me out of the fight, and I finished tenth. Tomorrow I will of course need to make a fantastic start but I am confident that I am able to do that. I apologise to Ducati for the fact that I’m on the third row but I will, as ever, do my best in the races. Last year I started from 13th and won the race so I know it is possible to achieve a great result regardless of grid position.”

TIMES (Superpole): 1. Haslam (Suzuki) 1’31.2;  2. Fabrizio (Ducati Xerox) 1’31.2; 3. Crutchlow (Yamaha) 1’31.6; 4. Checa (Ducati) 1’31.6; 5. Guintoli (Suzuki) 1’31.6; 6. Smrz (Ducati) 1’31.7; 7. Rea (Honda) 1’21.9; 8. Toseland (Yamaha) 1’32.0; 9. Lanzi (Ducati) 1’32.3; 10. Haga (Ducati Xerox) 1’32.7

Phillip Island (Australia), Friday 26th February : The World Superbike Championship officially got underway at Phillip Island today and, for the Ducati Xerox team and riders Noriyuki Haga and Michel Fabrizio, results of the first qualifying session were very positive, Fabrizio propelling himself to second place on the timesheets and Haga concluding in fifth.

After the very encouraging results of the recent tests held here last weekend, Michel closing fastest and Noriyuki in sixth, the team returned to work today in a motivated and enthusiastic frame of mind.

In the early afternoon the Superbike riders took to the tracks for the first free practice session. Faced with hotter track temperatures (circa 45°C) compared to those of last week’s test, both Noriyuki and Michel continued to work on the set-up of their Ducati 1198 machines. Both riders concentrated on tyre durability, trying to find the best set-up on used tyres. Michel was victim of a crash mid-session caused by an unexpected lack of grip at the front on entry into a corner, the asphalt was extremely slippery due to the heat. Having lost valuable time, the Italian rider exited on his second bike but was unfortunately unable to record a very fast lap, closing the session in 11th.

Noriyuki made his fastest lap near the start of the session, closing in seventh place, but confident.

Later on, in the first qualifying session, the two factory riders significantly improved on their times , lapping consistently fast and towards the end of the session, on soft compounds, they both registered times that left them both happy and in the top five. Noteworthy performances also came from Carlos Checa and Shane “Shakey” Byrne (Althea Racing), they too riding the 1198, who finished the session in first and fourth placed respectively.

Michel Fabrizio 1m32.1s
“We tried different tyre solutions this morning and various setting solutions in agreement with my engineer. I had a fall, losing the front, but without causing myself, or my bike, too much damage fortunately. Then in the qualifying session we found a good direction with the tyre solution that may well be the one to choose for the race; the results were quite encouraging. During my fast lap I lost a couple of tenths through the last corner but I’m happy; we’ve worked well and I’m satisfied with the results. We have a good race pace but a lot will depend on Sunday’s weather.”

Noriyuki Haga 1m32.7s
“We’ve tested the different rear tyres that Pirelli make available to us this weekend but we are still undecided as to which will have the best durability in these hot conditions. Tomorrow we’ll try a different solution for the setting but overall I’m happy. The lap times have been consistent but today was very hot and although I felt I could have pushed a little more, I didn’t want to risk it, also because I saw that several riders crashed."


TIMES:  1. Checa (Ducati) 1.32.1; 2. Fabrizio (Ducati Xerox) 1’32.1, 3. Haslam (Suzuki) 1’32.3; 4. Byrne (Ducati) 1’32.6; 5. Haga (Ducati Xerox) 1’32.7; 6. Biaggi (Aprilia)  1’32.8; 7. Rea (Honda) 1’32.8; 8. Guintoli (Suzuki) 1’32.9