Duncan Motorsports and Kickstart Coffee are pleased to sponsor:

”An Evening with Simon Pavey” Friday July 30, 2010.

Simon Pavey, 6 time Dakar Rally competitor, trainer of Charley Boorman and Ewan McGregor for their TV series "Long Way Round", and co-star of the documentary "Charley Boorman Race To Dakar" will be returning to Duncan.

Simon will be hosting a special viewing of excerpts of “Race to Dakar” TV series, a talk on riding motorcycles in the historic Dakar rallies in Africa and Argentina and a question and answer session.

Due to overwhelming response we have moved the venue to:

Island Savings Center
2687 James Street
Duncan BC.

Start time is 7:00 PM.

This is an event that should not be missed by any motorcycling or travel enthusiast !

There is a small event charge of $10. Tickets are available at the door or at Duncan Motorsports, 1063 Canada Ave, Duncan BC phone 1-866-746-2453

Simon Pavey - that's this guy:

Triumph is ramping up for some demo days!  There's quite a few dealers participating from across Canada. So if you want a chance to ride a Triumph before you buy then you should check out the following dates and locations:

Here are the participating dealers and the dates of their "KICKSTART SUMMER" Demo Event:

Here's the latest report from BC native, Don Hatton and his rallying exploits in Sardegna:

Press Release

Canadian Don Hatton has completed the first day for racing in the 2010 Sardegna Rally Race in Sardinia Italy.

“Exciting day! Long stages with average speed of only 40 km/hr. Very narrow and rocky, just like riding the deer or mountain bike trails back home” Don says.

It was pouring rain during the special stage today making it even tougher for the competitors more used to riding in the North African sand dunes. The 4 foot deep water crossing was exceptionally tough. But thanks to the help of the Polish team who with their ATV were able to pull out six stranded riders.

We know at this point that Marc Coma is leading the race overall but due to lack of direct contact with the organizers we are unable to update Don’s position in the race. We will advise as soon as we have the information.

Today’s stage is the “Marathon Stage” ending in a “parc ferme” at the Polygon Military compound in the Sardinian mountains. This means the riders will not have their support teams to help with the maintenance or repair of the bike.

Also all the competitors are housed in large communal tent in an “African Style” bivouac for the night.

Rally Raid Racing Factoid – things you might not know or thought of:

Parc ferme is a term used to indicate a guarded locked compound where the motorcycles are kept at night. The riders are generally only allowed a short time frame to do any maintenance or repairs on the bikes, sometimes as little as fifteen minutes, and are not allowed any help from anyone – including spectators – and especially their support team. If they are caught accepting help they can be disqualified from the race. 

Therefore along with incredible physical and mental stamina, the ability to navigate in everything from a desert to wooded mountains a Rally Raid rider must also be a very handy mechanic!

Sunday June 6th from 10:00am to 4:00pm you're invited to join Duncan Motorsports and Kickstart Coffee for a unique demo ride on a ZERO Electric motorcycle.



“Zero Motorcycles is the next step in motorcycle evolution and represents the ultimate electric motorcycle technology. Unencumbered by conventional thinking about how we design, manufacture, and sell high performance electric motorcycles, we’re on a mission to turn heads and revolutionize our industry by combining the best aspects of a traditional motorcycle with today’s most advanced technology. The result is an electric motorcycle line that’s insanely fast, and environmentally friendly.

“Built for both experienced and entry-level riders our premium motorcycle line offers blistering acceleration and speed with optional settings for the less aggressive. What separates us from our competition is performance, quality and reliability of each bike.”

Check out these AMAZING Bikes at www.zeromotorcycles.com
.
 Duncan Motorsports is the exclusive  Zero Electric Motorcycle Dealer on Vancouver Island! 

For more information check out “Events” at www.duncanmotorsports.ca or www.facebook.com under the group Zero Motorcycles Demo Day  Vancouver Island.

*All rides are weather permitting.  Please bring your valid Class 6 motorcycle licence.

Fabulous food, lovely people, warm Mediterranean weather and gorgeous scenery: this is Rally Raid racing in Sardinia.

The off set to this are long days in the saddle over tough terrain. There is a little bit of everything for the competitive rider: rocks, sand, lots of mountains to climb and descend, and water crossings up to 4 feet deep!

The Sardegna Rally Race is the third round of the FIM Rally Raid World Championship and this is what Duncan’s Don Hatton of Rally Raid Canada is participating in from May 27 till June 1.

Don is riding with world champion Cyril Despres’s, Team KTM along with six other riders from around the globe. It is a chance to ride with and learn from the three time Dakar champion Despres. “I really learned a lot yesterday” Don notes. “To be honest I always thought navigation was my strong point but yesterday brought it all together”

The first stage of the rally from San Teodoro to Arbrorea will be 406 kilometers long with 187 kilometers of it being the timed special. Due to the remoteness of the stage all the riders have to carry extra fuel on their KTM motorcycles.

The event is being organized by the Italian Motorcycle Federation and you can follow along on their web site at http://www.bikevillage.it/

For more information and photos check out www.rallyraidcanada.com

In Alberta, Husqvarna Canada’s Marty Halmazna competed in his first race on his 2010 TXC 510 by pounding his way to the finish of the Porcupine Cross Country.

Halmazna had a tough day that began with a dead last start. With just shy of 20 riders in the Pro class, Halmazna had his work cut out for him as he picked off riders and made his way forward. Towards the end of the first loop, Marty was able to fight his way into the top ten and was focused on hunting the leaders.

With less than 3 kms to the end of the first loop, and more importantly the gas check, Halmazna ran his big 510 out of fuel and lost an estimated 20 to 30 minutes getting to the check and fueling up. With any chance of a top result gone, Marty focused on finishing the event.

“It was a tough way to end my first race on the 510” indicates Marty. “My start sucked but the bike was working great and I was pretty comfortable as I worked my way past riders in the first loop. I had no idea what position I was in but knew that I had passed a bunch of guys and was hoping that I might catch the lead riders in the second loop.”

MARTY HALMAZNA

“When I finally got to the check, they told me I was probably in about 7th before I ran out of gas. I just put my head down in the second loop and tried to pick off as many riders as possible. I got a few and think that I had made it up to about 11th at the end. I’m definitely looking forward to the races in the next few weeks so I can get back out there and have another crack at a win.”

The podium at this year’s Porcupine Cross Country was occupied by three seasoned racers with well documented fast guy status in Western Canada. Honda Canada’s Jason Schrage took the top step followed by multi-time champion Jared Thomas in 2nd and the infamous Paul Petrin in 3rd.
Ryan, Nick and Marty along with Husqvarna Canada’s Guy Giroux, will be attending additional regional races in the coming weeks as they continue to prepare for the opening round of the 2010 Canadian Enduro Championship series that begins July 3rd and 4th in Blairmore, Alberta.

FP Husqvarna / Zip-Ty Racing Canada’s Guy Giroux and Ryan Graffunder hammered their way to podium positions on the weekend while competing at regional races in their respective home turfs of British Columbia and Quebec. Giroux nailed 2nd place at the opening round of Quebec’s FMSQ series, held in St-Alphonse de Granby, while Graffunder backed up the podium he earned at his last race by delivering a 3rd overall at Rock Hound Hare Scramble in Salmon Arm, British Columbia.

In Giroux’s first Canadian race on board his 2010 Husqvarna, the seasoned veteran from Quebec was able to pound his way through the slippery rocks and roots of the St-Alphonse course and secure his spot on the podium.

After a bad start that left him picking his way through the pack on his WR 250 two stroke, Guy battled with an inspired Scott Bowes for second position and then focused on hunting down the United Kingdom’s ultra-fast export, and current GNCC contender, Jason Thomas.

In the end, although Giroux was unable to close the significant gap that Thomas had stretched out, he was able to finish the day with a solid lock on second position.


In British Columbia, the 2010 installment of the Rock Hound Hare Scramble offered up a dust choked start that saw Ryan Graffunder on his TXC 450 shadowed by his brother, and Husqvarna Canada team-mate, Nick Graffunder, on his TXC 250 as they gobbled up riders in the opening lap.

Although Nick would run into problems early into the race that would prematurely end his day, Ryan was able to forge his way forward on the demanding race course that left many riders exhausted and nursing blistered hands.

Following some close bar to bar combat with notorious Alberta fast guy, Paul Petrin, Graffunder was able to break away and went after the leaders.  At the finish of the grueling five lap event, Ryan’s efforts were rewarded when he snagged third overall and the final spot on the podium spot.

Guy, Ryan and Nick, along with Husqvarna Canada’s Marty Halmazna, will be hitting additional regional races in the coming weeks as they continue to prepare for the opening round of the 2010 Canadian Enduro Championship series that begins July 3rd and 4th in Blairmore, Alberta.

Penticton, BC (Apex Ski resort) - July 10 & 11 

Deeley Harley-Davidson Canada has launched a new, interactive promotion that will allow thousands of UFC fans to test their metal in a very fun and creative web-based “Ring Girl Round-Up” game.

“Amazing”. “Hardest day of the Rally”. “Hardest Tunisian Rally ever!” These were quotes from some of the veteran competitors of the international Rally Raid series which includes the famous Dakar race. 

Don finished 16th on the stage and 5th in class for the day. It was his best stage of the rally. This places him 21st overall and 6th in class, 12 hours and 24 minutes behind the leader. The race was won by Chaleco Lopez of Chile while Marc Coma of Spain made up an unbelievable 11 minutes over Przygonski to take second place.

We erroneously noted that fellow Canadian competitor Bob Jones has retracted from the race due to clutch failure but apparently he was able to fix the mechanical issues and return for the last day of competition. The official NPO website is showing Bob completing the last stage in 26th position.

There is a very nice video interview with Don and his wife Natalie on http://www.rallyraid.tv . Just scroll down to and look for their photo showing them wearing their black Rally Raid Canada tee shirts.

On behalf of the whole Rally Raid Canada team we would like to thank our fans, supporters and especially our media partners who have been so kind to follow us on this North African adventure. We now look forward to the Sardegna Rally Race in Italy starting May 27.

For more information and photos check out www.rallyraidcanada.com

“The Longest Day”. That is the warning note on the route overview from the organizers of the 2010 Rally International de Tunisie. It is followed by term such as “fast, undulating tracks: sliding and jumping at daybreak” and “small dunes become large dunes, with less space between them: it becomes increasing difficult to find a route through them”. This is what Canadian Don Hatton of Duncan BC is facing tomorrow on Stage 4 of the rally.

Don finished Stage 3 of the rally 25th on the stage, 28th overall and still 6th in his class, 5 hours and 16 minutes behind the leader Lopez. This is amazing considering the rough, rock strewn terrain that favours the smaller lighter bikes. Couple this with extreme heat and a blinding sand storm described as a “white out” that nearly grounded the helicopters.

Don notes via text message “we needed good navigation skills today as all the tracks were covered with blowing sand”. Although tired by the tough racing conditions – it is hard to train for the extreme heat and the soft sand terrain here in western Canada – he is loving the competition.

Rally Raid Racing Factoid – things you might not know or thought of :

Rally Raid competitors live in a moving bivouac during the race. They are sleeping on the ground in tents usually surrounded by the support trucks with generators going all night long. The support crews work all night in some cases on the various vehicles preparing them for the next day’s competition. Come early morning, usually before 5:00 AM the racers are up getting ready for another 18 hour day. Then the support crews and race organizers pack up the bivouac and move to the next night’s location, which may be sometimes some 400 to 500 kilometers away. This is not your usual riding “holiday”.

Canadian Don Hatton successfully completed Stage 2 of the Rally International de Tunisie in 24th position for the day. Don was 2 hours and 9 minutes behind the leader Chalelo Lopez of Chili. This places Don in 29th position overall in the rally and 6th in his class with four more days of competition to come.

It was an incredibly hot day, temperatures in the high 30’s degree Celsius, with a winding route through the sands of Tunisia. This was the first day of racing in the sand dunes that all the competitors were looking forward to. Don is not reporting any ongoing issues with his motorcycle after yesterday’s mechanical delay.

Stage 3 will be a loop from Nekrif back to Nikrif totaling 265 kilometers in length. It is reported to be a fast special with a mix of small sand dunes, canyons and winding rocky tracks. As the organizers note: “ there will be something for everyone”. They are also reminding riders to “follow the right bearings through the sea of dunes” as the “track keeps disappearing under the wheels”.

Rally Raid Racing Factoid – things you might not know or have thought of :

We think of rally racing as a fast cross country style of racing. Going from point A to point B as fast as you can. When in actuality it is a navigation rally held at speed. A rider must be able to navigate through unknown territory with just a route book and a compass. No GPS units are used and they must hit certain check points to ensure they are on course. If they miss a check point they may be docked a timing penalty or if they miss more than one they may be disqualified from the race. Being fast is not good enough to win at Rally Raid – you must be fast and on route to win.

Don Hatton finished in 30th place on Stage 1 of the Rallye International de Tunisie in Tunisia.

Don Hatton of Rally Raid Canada is competing in the Rallye International de Tunisie starting today in Tunis, Tunisia. Don has passed all the scrutineering procedures with the Desert Rose team and his KTM 690 Rally bike, the same bike that he rode in the 2010 Dakar race.

“Tunisia is definitely Africa” Don’s wife and onsite support crew member Natalie comments. Temperatures are in the mid 30 to low 40 degree Celsius during the day and low teens at nighttime. There will be an excessive amount of sand riding for the competition stages with long liaison stages in between.

Today’s Stage 1 – Tunis to Douz – is a total of 586 kilometers of which 180 kilometers is the special stage. The organizers note that it will be challenging to navigate with numerous intersections and change of directions. They also gave warning regarding the cacti - “get too close and you’ll get hurt”

Follow Don on the NPO web site at www.npo.fr website or visit our website www.rallyraidcanada.com . His competitor number is 18.

New to this year’s rally is “live broadcasting” by the event organizers. We will be following the event at www.npolive.com/tunisie2010/en to see how well this works.
 
Rally Raid Racing Factoid – things you might not know or thought of :

Due to the extremes of temperature a lot of the motorcycle riders install heated grips on their bikes to help keep them warm in the mornings. The riders have to dress in multiple layers to combat the cold – with temperatures sometimes in the single digits in the morning - and then strip down to allow them to survive the 40 degree heat of mid afternoon. Layering and preparation is key to combating the elements.

The Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General in BC has issued an information bulletin with some changes to the Motor Vehicle Act.

Because of an increase in the number of motorcycles on the road and therefore motorcycle accidents all BC riders and their passengers are required to wear a helmet. Drivers are also responsible for ensuring their passengers under the age of 16 are also wearing an approved helmet.

If you're wearing a helmet that doesn't meet the requirements it can be seized by the police.

If you're under 16 and a rider you must be able to put your fee on the foot pegs or floor boards.

Interested in a more detailed description of the rules? Check out the Information Bulletin HERE.

Canadian motorcycle adventurer Rene Cormier brings an inspiring presentation and talk to participating BMW dealers showcasing his four-year, 154 000 kilometre, around-the-world motorcycle odyssey aboard a BMW F650.

Cormier, who recently chronicled his unique travels in the book, The University of Gravel Roads: Global Lessons From a Four-Year Motorcycle Adventure, will read excerpts and welcomes fellow motorcyclists, world travellers and anybody with a spirit of adventure to share their passion with like-minded enthusiasts at this special gathering. A book signing will follow.

Island BMW is proud to present an evening with Rene Cromier at Olympic View Golf Club, 643 Latoria Road Victoria, BC

This speaking and book signing event is on Thursday, April 22, 2010 from 7- 9pm(yes, the same day as the annual Demo Days)

Admission:  Tickets Available at Island BMW or call us at 250-474-2088. Tickets are $20 with all proceeds benefiting the Morgan Jayne Project

More information on Rene can be found at http://www.renedian.com

Once again the friends of the Royal Distributing Canadian Enduro Championship at West Jet have stepped up with a discount deal on flights for the Royal Distributing Canadian Enduro Championship. They are providing 10% off thier lowest rate for flights to Calgary and Kelowna for the western rounds and Toronto and Montreal for the eastern rounds. 


The discount is good for up to 3 days on either side of each event. 


Call 877-952-4696 and use discount code CC5986 and be sure to thank them for thier support.

Don Hatton, one of Canada’s premier motorcycle competitors has confirmed he has entered the next two FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship events. 

Our friend Jeff (Founder/Executive Producer) over at Virtual Riding TV has posted a new high definition video of a sunset motorcycle ride on the Sea to Sky Highway between Porteau Cove and Lions Bay, British Columbia, Canada.

For those unacquainted with this area, Highway 99 is one of the most scenic roads in BC, especially from Vancouver to Whistler.  Portions of this stretch of road were redone for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, and now the Sea to Sky corridor is a motorcyclist's dream filled with spectacular scenery. Don't take our word for it though. Check out the video below.

The video is appearing in several spots on the web, including YouTube, Daily Motion, and the tourism British Columbia website.  You can check out this new video below but make sure you visit the VRIDETV website to see all their great (and free!) video's.

Konker Motors, the BC based provider of the KSM 200 street bike is holding a contest whereby owners can win parts cash (individual prizes valued at $200 and a total of $3,200), an accessory package (valued at $1,500), or the top prize - a 2009 KSM 200 street bike.

Jeff Pennock over at Virtual Riding TV has been busy riding, filming, and editing. He has found some time to put together a video showing some great riding in Vancouver and Cypress Mountain.

If you were at the Toronto Motorcycle show you've already seen it, but if you're in another part of Canada; relax... You might get a chance yet. Honda Canada is bringing the new VFR1200FA on tour with them.

Sponsored by 7HOLE PRODUCTIONS The Canadian Stuntriding Championships or CSC as they will be known as will be hosted by us at Tradex in Abbotsford on June 5th 2010 and tickets will be sold for $15.00.The Competition will begin promptly at 1pm and is expected to go for approx 2.5-3.0 hours.

According to promotors: "This is guaranteed to be the biggest competition to date in Canada's history."

The competitions will be as follows.

Circle wheelie Comp with the winner receiving $300.00 Canadian and a trophy.
Longest endo Comp with the winner receiving $300.00 Canadian and a trophy.
Target Stoppie Comp with the winner receiving $300.00 Canadian and a trophy.
Individual freestyle Comp with the winner receiving $1000.00 Canadian and a trophy.
2 up comp with the tandem team receiving $300.00 canadian and a trophy.
Sickest trick/burnout comp with the winner receiving $300.00 canadian and a trophy.

Team Destination Dakar’s Don Hatton is heading off to race the Dakar 2010 race in Argentina and is inviting fans and media contacts to come to his going away celebration on December 23rd, 2009 from 6PM to 9PM

We got an email from BC resident - Don Hatton's, Team Destination Dakar with some updates that will have all the Dakar fans out their on the edge of their seat.

Press Release:

The bike is built and loaded on the ship in France heading for Argentina. Entrance fee is paid. The medical shots are all done. Moose’s – a motorcycle endurance racer’s version of a tire inner tube - are located and being shipped via a courier company to a motorcycle dealer in South America that he has only met once.

A thousand little details are being looked after by various people around the globe all cumulating in Canadian Don Hatton starting in the 2010 Dakar Race on January 1, 2010 in Buenos Aires Argentina. The race lasts 17 days and covers nearly 10,000 kilometers in Argentina and Chile.

“I’m nervous about the race but really excited about being back in the Dakar” Don said in a recent interview. This will be Don’s third attempt at the fabled endurance race.

His first attempt was preempted by the cancellation of the race in 2008 when it was still held in North Africa by the organizing body – ASO – due to terrorist threats against the race participants. In the 2009 Dakar race held in Argentina Don crashed on day five severely injuring himself.

Don is fully recovered from his injuries and recently finished fourth in the 2009 NPO Shamrock Rally de Maroc (Rally of Morocco)

Don’s new KTM 690 Rally bike was recently on display at his dealership, Duncan Motorsports, in Duncan BC where team mechanic Bernie Wright prepared the bike prior to shipping it to France. It will be loaded along with his replacement parts and personal racing equipment onto a ship by the ASO so that all the competitors bikes clear Argentina customs at one time. This will greatly simplify some of the logistical challenges faced by Don and his team last year.

Don is inviting his friends, fans and media to a gala send off party to be held December 23, 2009 at Duncan Motorsports in Duncan BC. Time to be advised.

CONCORD, Ontario (November 24, 2009) – It is that time of year again when inclement weather may lead many of us not to be able to actively pursue the art of motorcycling. The next best thing to do is to spend time admiring motorcycles with family and friends, and luckily enough, the MMIC Canadian Motorcycle Shows offer a perfect platform to display the new Harley-Davidson® motorcycles across the country.


The line-up will include the premium 2010 Harley-Davidson® Electra Glide® Ultra Limited motorcycle with its enhanced performance features, making it the must-have for the Grand American Touring aficionado, the funky 2010 Harley-Davidson® Fat Boy® Lo motorcycle with its bold and suave profile, as well as the Sportster® Iron 883TM motorcycle, which allows even the most inexperienced riders to embrace the pure essence of riding.

With a variety of exciting activities including demonstration of bike lifts for women, motorcycle customization displays, UFC video game challenges, as well as free give-aways, such as “How-To” kits, and the chance to win great prizes, the upcoming motorcycle shows allow us the pleasure of sharing our love of the open roads with you.

The MMIC Show Schedule is as follows:

Toronto: December 11 to 13, Metro Toronto Convention Centre
Calgary: January 8 to 10, Stampede Park
Edmonton: January 15 to 17, Expo Centre – Northlands
Vancouver area: January 21 to 24, Tradex Exhibition Centre in Abbotsford
City of Québec: February 5 to 7, Centre de foires
Moncton: February 12 to 14, Colisée de Moncton Coliseum
Montreal: February 26 to 28, Palais des congrès de Montréal

Jeff over at VRideTV has a new high quality video posted and this one is something a little different than his usual. He still manages to get a little footage of him on his V-Rod crusing around in beautiful BC, but this time he also gets to become the passenger in a Cesna 172 plane.

He gets on board in Squamish and films during a flight to Whistler, British Columbia. The passenger door of the plane was removed for filming, allowing for an unobstructed view of the incredible scenery. It'll make you say "Wow!"

Some of the points of interest featured are, Stawamus Chief Provincial Park, Howe Sound, Lake Lovely Water, Tantalus Provincial Park, Black Tusk, Whistler Village, both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, the Barrier lava dam and Garibaldi Lake in Garibaldi Provincial Park.

Hope you enjoy!

Here's a link to the video below but don't forget to check out all Jeff's video's on VRideTV.

Don Hatton, Canada’s own international motorcycle racer, would like to invite the public to come and watch the creation of his new KTM690 race bike being built in Duncan BC.

Don has hired KTM factory trained motorcycle mechanic Bernie Wright to come to Duncan Motorsports, Don’s motorcycle shop in Duncan BC, to build the new race bike. They have opened a part of the shop to allow the public to view and talk to Bernie while he performs the upgrades necessary for the KTM to survive the grueling 14 day Dakar race.

Bernie was the mechanic on the Dessert Rose team that Don was riding with in his recently successful completion of the 2009 NPO Shamrock Rally de Maroc (Rally of Morocco). Bernie was also the team mechanic in Don’s two previous Dakar attempts.

We all look forward to meeting Bernie and watching the transformation of the KTM 690 Rally bike into a true Dakar contender.

The location of Duncan Motorsports is:

1603 Canada Ave
Duncan BC, V9L 1V2
Ph: 250-716-7148

For more information and photos check out www.destinationdakar.com

Don Hatton, Canada’s own international motorcycle racer has finished in fourth place in the Enduro class in the 2009 NPO Shamrock Rally de Maroc (Rally of Morocco).

The rally ran over six days, 2650 kilometers in total distance with nearly 2000 kilometers of that under race conditions. Through rock, sand, dunes the size of small office buildings and scorching heat in 40 degree Celsius range Don dug deep mentally and physically to complete the rally

These words from Don:

“I just could not overcome the time difference between myself and third place. The only way I could have caught him was for him to have a problem. I did catch up and pass him at one point in the Rally only to lose the gain when we hit a really rocky stretch forcing me to slow to a snails pace.”

“I am not disappointed with my finish in anyway, I had to really dig in and work to achieve what I did, my navigation went very well. I did make a couple of minor navigation errors but nothing serious, my only real problem in the Rally was the limits created by the lack of suspension on the stock KTM690 Enduro. I believe with better suspension I could have won my category.”

“I was a little caught off guard by the heat in stage 2 however after a short rest in the desert I recovered enough to finish well that day. After that I wore a few less Items of clothing. “

“In any case I did finish and finished in a respectable position. “

Don Hatton is still going strong after stage four of the 2009 Morocco Rally.

“Don had a good ride today” Natalie Hatton, Don’s wife, commented.

The race has been grueling. “ Rocks, rocks and more rocks” Don says. Stage 4 of the race was treacherous enough for the organizers to issue a warning to the racers regarding unmarked holes in the course.

Attrition among the competitors is rising. Don’s team mate and fellow Canadian rider Rick Hatswell is out of the race with a broken leg suffered during stage 3 of the rally. Another of his team mates David Dickinson is reported injured in stage 4 with a broken sternum.

Stage three’s extremely high heat along with the extensive racing in sand dunes caused Don to have heat stroke. Although it did not require medical attentions it caused a delay as he sought relief from the heat by using his KTM 690 for shade from the hot Moroccan sun. Don’s comment is “it was fun and challenging”

Jeff over at VRIDETV has been out riding and doing some of his usual fine editing of Canadian motorcycle rides. He's lucky to live and ride in BC but he's recorded rides all across Canada. Check out his site to read the interesting story.

This time he's got a new high definition video of some riding (and captures some great footage of a black bear in the wild at the side of Duffey Lake Road (99 South)) and a beautiful sunset at Duffey Lake Provincial Park, British Columbia, Canada.

He started "The Duffey Loop" at 11:00am in Langley, riding up the Fraser Canyon to Cache Creek, then into the Marble Canyon, to Lillooette, Pemberton, Whistler, Squamish and Vancouver, returning to Langley at 10:15pm for a total of 703 kilometers.

Catch the new video below but also be sure to check out VRIDETV for tons of great Canadian motorcycling video's!

Don Hatton, Cowichan Valleys own international motorcycle racer has entered the 2009 Morocco Rally set to start October 24, 2009.

“I’m glad to be racing again” Don says.

He was severely injured on stage 5 of the 2009 Dakar race held in Argentina in January 2009.

“I just recently got my medical clearance from the FIM – the governing body for motorcycle rally racing including the Dakar – and I am ready to get back racing”

Don competed in the 2008 Morocco Rally successfully completing the seven day endurance event in 127th place.

Don will be racing for England’s Patzy Quick race team about a KTM690. Patzy Quick is famous for being the first English women rider to complete the grueling 14 day Paris Dakar Rally and by being featured in the TV series Race to Dakar.

Don is planning to compete in this years Dakar race starting on January 1, 2010. He will be riding a specially prepared KTM motorcycle which will be built in the show room of Duncan Motorsports, a local motorcycle dealership which Don and his wife Natalie purchased earlier this year.

“We are inviting the public to come and see Bernie my mechanic build the bike to race specifications right in the show room. For anyone interested in motorsports, not just motorcycle racing, it should be very interesting and informative”

For more information check out www.destinationdakar.ca

As of the end of June, Zero motorcycles (maker of electric motorcycles) has the following new dealers that have demo units on the floor now or they will very soon:

- Ottawa, ON - Gear Head Canada (www.gearheadcanada.com)
- Duncan, BC - Duncan Motorsports (www.duncanmotorsports.com)
- Surrey, BC - Greater Vancouver Powersports (www.gvps.ca)
- Penticton, BC - Ceder Motorsports
- Pemberton/Whistler, BC - Valley Chainsaw & Recreational Ltd
- Calgary, AB - Bow Cycle (www.bowcycle.com)

Check one out, then let us know about it!

Jeff over at Virtual Riding Television has posted a new HD quality video of a ride to Yak Peak, and the Coquihalla Summit, located between Hope and Merritt, British Columbia, Canada.

Jeff made use of not one, but THREE high definition video cameras to make this video. One of which is a helmet mounted HD camera, offing a great point-of-view experience.

Be sure to check out Virtual RIding Television on the web HERE to see all their videos.

It's perhaps a little early to be thinking ahead to December and the new year for some, but for others who like to plan well in advance - break out your schedule - you won't want to miss this!

Dates for the first four of seven events of the Motorcycle & Moped Industry Council (MMIC) new model tour and showcase have been set. The event travels coast to coast each year, bringing riders and media their first glimpse of the new models, gear and accessories.

The Toronto Motorcycle Show marks the first of the events, followed by Calgary, Edmonton, and Vancouver.

Toronto -- December 11-13th, 2009
Calgary -- January 8-10th, 2010
Edmonton -- January 15-17th, 2010
Vancouver -- January 21-24th, 2010

Keep an eye on the Canadian Motorcycle Shows website HERE.

Harley Davidson is BIG on demo days and they take their bikes clear across the country offering riders a chance to see what makes riding a Harley Davidson so appealing.

They've got tons of rides scheduled for August, September, and October. Here's the list and locations of Harley Demo rides all across Canada:

August 2, 2009 - Barrie H-D, Barrie, ON
August 6, 2009 - MotoSport Plus, Kingston, ON
August 7, 2009 - H-D of Yorkton, Yorkton, SK
August 8, 2009 - Centre de Motos, Brossard, QC
August 8, 2009 - Redline H-D, Saskatoon, SK
August 9, 2009 - Prairie Motorcycle, Regina, SK
August 10, 2009 - Vision H-D, Repentigny, QC
August 13-15, 2009 - Canadian National H.O.G. Rally. Calgary, AB
August 13, 2009 - Moto Sport Blanchette, Ville de Bécancour, QC
August 14, 2009 - Sherbrooke H-D, Sherbrooke, QC
August 15, 2009 - H-D Montreal, Montreal, QC
August 16, 2009 - H-D Laval / Laval Buell, Laval, QC
August 16, 2009 - Lethbridge H-D, Lethbridge, AB
August 18, 2009 - H-D / Buell of the Kootenays, Cranbrook, BC
August 19, 2009 - H-D / Buell of the Kootenays, Castlegar, BC
August 19, 2009 - Pete's Sales & Service, Pembroke, ON
August 20, 2009 - H-D de L'Outaouais, Gatineau, QC
August 21, 2009 - Kane’s H-D, Kelowna, BC
August 22, 2009 - Kamloops H-D, Kamloops, BC
August 22, 2009 - Sport Boutin, Valleyfield, QC
August 23, 2009 - Mountain View H-D / Buell, Chilliwack, BC
August 23, 2009 - Shwinigan H-D, Shawinigan, QC
August 26-27, 2009 - Steve Drane H-D, Victoria, BC
August 28, 2009 - Barnes H-D / Buell, Port Coquitlam, BC
August 29, 2009 - Barnes H-D / Buell, Langley, BC
August 29-30, 2009 - Cycle City, Mount Pearl, NL
August 30, 2009 - Trev Deeley Motorcycles, Vancouver, BC
September 2-3, 2009 - H-D of Prince George, Prince George, BC
September 3, 2009 - Privateers H-D, Halifax, NS
September 5, 2009 - H-D of Smithers, Smithers, BC
September 5-6, 2009 - Wharf Rat Rally, Digby, NS
September 9, 2009 - Eldridge's, St. John, NB
September 9-10, 2009 - H-D Grande Prairie, Grande Prairie, AB
September 10, 2009 - Red Rock H-D, Cornwall, PEI
September 11, 2009 - J.H. Stewart, Miramichi, NB
September 12, 2009 - H-D of Edmonton, Edmonton, AB
September 12, 2009 - Toys for Big Boys, Moncton, NB
September 13, 2009 - Heritage H-D, Edmonton, AB
September 15, 2009 - Redline H-D Shop Lloydminster, Lloydminster, AB
September 17, 2009 - H-D of Fort McMurray, Fort McMurray, AB
September 17, 2009 - R.P.M. Moto Plus, St. Felicien, QC
September 19, 2009 - Gasoline Alley H-D, Red Deer, AB
September 19, 2009 - H-D Rimouski, Rimouski, QC
September 20, 2009 - H-D of Medicine Hat, Dunmore, AB
September 20, 2009 - Motosports G.P., Victoriaville, QC
September 24, 2009 - Atelier de Mécanique Prémont, Québec City, QC
September 25, 2009 - Lone Star H-D, Winnipeg, MB
September 25, 2009 - Prémont Beauce H-D (Shop), Notre-Dame-des-Pins, QC
September 26, 2009 - Boileau Moto Service et H-D, Acton Vale, QC
September 26, 2009 - H-D Winnipeg, Winnipeg, MB
September 27, 2009 - Gaslight H-D, Morden, MB
September 27, 2009 - Goulet Motosports, Hawkesbury, ON
September 30, 2009 - Thunder Bay H-D,Thunder Bay, ON
October 3, 2009 - H-D of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON
October 3, 2009 - The Shop, Sudbury, ON
October 4, 2009 - Fox H-D / Buell, Owen Sound, ON
October 4, 2009 - Longley H-D of Peterborough, Peterborough, ON
October 6, 2009 - Clare's Cycle & Sports, Niagara on the Lake, ON
October 6, 2009 - Motorsport Custom Accessories, Sarnia, ON
October 9, 2009 - Duke’s H-D, Blenheim, ON
October 10, 2009 - Davies H-D, Richmond Hill, ON
October 10, 2009 - Mackie H-D, Oshawa, ON
October 17, 2009 - H-D of Toronto, Toronto, ON
October 17, 2009 - Rocky's H-D, London, ON
October 18, 2009 - Jacox H-D, Mississauga, ON
October 18, 2009 - Kitchener H-D, Kitchener, ON
October 24, 2009 - Thunder Road H-D, Windsor, ON

Our friend Jeff, Executive Producer, over at Virtual Riding Television has been keeping busy. He's posted yet another video, filmed with his Sony HXR-MC1 HD helmet-cam.

His latest HD point-of-view video was taken from the seat of his Harley V-Rod on June 5th /09 from Hope to Princeton British Columbia, Canada.

Vespa Surrey is the newest authorized dealer of Vespa, Piaggio, Aprilia,and Derbi scooters in the lower mainland of British Columbia.

Not only scooters they feature great accessory brands such as Corazzo, Nexx Helmets, Zearl Optics, THH Helmets, and Thibault. They've got factory trained technicians in the shop too, original Vespa parts and quick turn-arounds on repairs.

Be sure to check out their women's only scooter nights and events, as well as group rides, vendor shows and other unique events.

Check out their website here.

Simon Pavey, multiple time entrant and finisher in the Dakar, trainer of Ewan McGreggor and Charley Boorman, and manager of BMW Motorrad's off-road training facility in south Wales, will be coming to Duncan Motorsports in Duncan, BC on June 20th. At 6PM on the 20th Pavey will be giving a talk and presentation. Rumor is it's just $15 to attend with proceeds going to the Association for Injured Motorcyclists.

He'll also be presenting a mini version of his Adventure rider school on June 21st. Contact Duncan Motorsports for further details.

Duncan Motorsports
1063 Canada Ave
Duncan BC V9L 1V2 Canada
866-746-2453 (toll free)

Looks like it'll be a great opportunity to get some rare Dakar insider information and a chance to brush up on your off-road skills from a pro!

Our friend Jeff, Executive Producer, over at Virtual Riding Television has a new video posted. Somehow, he just keeps on finding some of the most beautiful roads in Canada then films them from the seat of his Harley Davidson V-Rod. The footage from this latest video was shot in the Fraser Canyon from Hope to The Last Spike point of interest located between Spences Bridge and Ashcroft British Columbia, Canada. Definitely a stunning stretch of road!

I must head out West to visit that part of Canada some day! The footage is high quality, as always. This video is shot without music because Jeff's testing out a new toy. He's gotten a new HD camera and mounted it to his KBC helmet; it's a Sony HXR-MC1 Digital HD Camera Video Recorder to be exact.

So, we can expect plenty more motorcycle video's showcasing some great Canadian roads and scenery from Virtual Riding TV.

Here's the video - but be sure to visit the VRide TV website to check out all the great stuff Jeff's got there.

We've gotten word from Jeff Pennock, Executive Producer, Virtual Riding Television that he has posted a new video, from a ride filmed April 21st, 2009.

Triumph is celebrating 107 years of Triumph motorcycles by way of an "Anniversary Days - Open House." It's set to take place between April 28th and May 2, 2009.

Not only are Triumph celebrating 107 years; it's the 50th year of the Bonneville, the 60th year of the Thunderbird, and the 15th year of the original Speed Triple.

Stop in at participating dealerships on Saturday - May 2, 2009 for an "Anniversary Days" reception where all are welcome.

Each location will organize its own schedule of events so you can expect to meet some great people and see some amazing Triumph Motorcycles.

The list of participating Canadian dealerships includes:

- Blackfoot Motorcyle - Calgary, AB
- Echo Cycle - Edmonton, AB
- British Italian Motorcycles - Vancouver, BC
- C&S Motorcyles - Sidney, BC
- Southwest Motorrad - Kelowna, BC
- Western Powersports - Langley, BC
- GP Bikes - Ajax, ON
- Inglis Cycle Center - London, ON
- J&R Cycle - Stayner, ON
- Ottawa Goodtime Center - Ottawa, ON
- Rev Cycles - Toronto, ON
- Sturgess Cycle - Hamilton, ON
- Monette Sports - Laval, QC
- Moto Montreal Cycle - Montreal, QC
- European Motorrad - Saskatoon, SK

* Image courtesy Triumph Canada.

Whitby. BMW Motorrad Canada is pleased to announce the sixth annual edition of the BMW “For Women Only!” test ride event schedule.

Since 2004, the BMW “For Women Only!” Test Ride Event has offered female motorcycle riders the opportunity to test ride a full range of current BMW models in a relaxed and controlled environment.

Administered and hosted by seasoned female motorcycle enthusiasts in affiliation with BMW Motorrad Canada, the events are offered in three major Canadian cities:

Vancouver- Saturday, April 25
Toronto - Saturday, May 16
Montreal - Saturday, June 20

The first two BMW “For Women Only!” ride events conveniently “bookend” the 3rd Annual International Female Ride Day staged on Friday, May 1, mutually supporting and promoting the ever-growing sorority of female motorcycle enthusiasts.

International Female Ride Day is the inspiration of Vicki Gray, founder of MOTORESS, an international website developed to encourage and support women in motorcycling worldwide. Vicki works tirelessly to “Connect women with motorcycling” and the International Female Ride Day has spawned numerous female-only motorcycling events focused on the annual May 1event.

BMW Motorrad Canada is a strong supporter of female motorcycling in Canada and a regular sponsor of MOTORESS since its inception.

More information on the BMW “For Women Only!” Ride Events and a link to MOTORESS, please go to www.bmw-motorrad.ca.

The big Ducati truck filled with the latest 2009 season motorcycles from Italy is going to be making it's way across Canada. It'll be making fourteen stops along the way so that you can demo their machines.

The tour also supports a charity too so you pay a small fee to ride and the money goes to charity. I believe it was $20 a ride last year and the ride lasted about an hour.

Toronto, ON (15 April 2009) - Ducati North America is pleased to announce the 2009 Ducati Canada National Demo Tour, an opportunity to sample the 2009 model lineup while supporting the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

The annual event begins April 25th in Vancouver, BC and has stops at authorized Ducati dealers across Canada, concluding June 19th in Dieppe, NB. The demo tour offers a unique opportunity to sample Ducati’s most popular models in a fun riding environment, and meet with both Ducati and dealer staff to learn more about the Italian manufacturer’s handmade motorcycles.

For 2009 the Ducati demo tour will be teaming up with Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation; requesting a voluntary $10.00 donation collected from participating riders. Last year Ducati demo riders contributed over $4000 to the foundation, and had a great time doing it. Ducati North America hopes to raise even more in 2009 to help this worthy charity.

For more information about the 2009 Canadian demo tour, as well as details regarding safety requirements and the models available, please visit www.ducatiusa.com.

The Ducati lineup on tour will include:

Monster 696
Monster 1100 and 1100 S
Multistrada 1100 S
Sport 1000
GT 1000
848 Superbike
1198 Superbike*
Hypermotard
Hypermotard S

*Model available to pre-qualified riders only

2009 Tour dates are as follows;

Saturday, April 25th, John Valk Motorsports, Vancouver, BC
Sunday, April 26th, Richmond Motorsports, Richmond, BC
Tuesday, April 28th, Southwest Ducati, Kelowna, BC
Saturday, May 2nd, Revoluzione Cycle Imports, Calgary, AB
Tuesday, May 5th, Argyll Motorsports, Edmonton, AB
Thursday, May 7th, Thunder City, Regina, SK
Thursday May 9th, Wildwood Sports, Winnipeg, MB
Monday May 18th, GP Bikes, Ajax, ON
Thursday May 28th, Inglis Cycles, London, ON
Saturday May 30th, Peninsula Import Motors, Oakville, ON
Tuesday June 2nd, Rev Cycles, Toronto, ON
Tuesday June 9th, Monette Sports, Laval, QC
Tuesday June 16th, Le Centre de la Moto Vanier, Inc, Quebec City, QC
Friday June 19th, Atlantic Motoplex, Dieppe, NB

For all the Ural owners and prospective owners - we've gathered up a listing of the Canadian and US Ural retailers in Canada and the US. The list was published by Ural so should be current as of March 18th/2009.

It's a handy refernce if you've got a Ural and plan to do some adventure traveling - as Ural owners are prone to do. Click on the pictures for a larger version.

Here's the Canadian list - in no particular order:



Here's the US list - in no particular order:

British Columbia’s RPM Supermoto Championship has posted details on their motorcycle racing schedule for the 2009 season.

Supermoto is a style of racing that's part motorcross, part flat track, and part road racing on pavement and dirt. The tracks are typically a 70/30 split of pavement and dirt with motorcross-style jumps as well. Should make for some very exciting racing!

This year, in what is RPM Supermoto’s third race season, they'll visit four tracks and have nine rounds of racing.

RPM Supermoto will include races in Quesnel, Williams Lake, Agassiz Speedway and at home track in Tradex, Abbotsford.

- Round 1: Sunday, April 12 - Tradex, Abbotsford (season opener)
- Round 2: Sunday, April 26 - Agassiz Speedway (Racing alongside MX races)
- Round 3: Sunday, June 7 - Quesnel Cart Track (special prizing)
- Round 4: Sunday, June 21 - Tradex, Abbotsford (New dirt section)
- Round 5: Sunday, July 12 - Tradex, Abbotsford
- Round 6: Sunday, July 26 - Tradex Abbotsford
- Round 7: Sunday, August 9 – Thunder Mtn Speedway, Williams Lake
- Round 8: Sunday, August 30 – Tradex, Abbotsford – Canadian National Championship
- Round 9: Sunday, September 27 - Agassiz Speedway

For full details about the events check out the British Columbia Riders Promoting Motorsports Association website.

The Vancouver motorcycle show opens its doors this coming Thursday.

Here's some of the basic details of the event. It's just an overview of what will be taking place so be sure to head on out this weekend.

Event Details:

The Vancouver Motorcycle Show is B.C.’s foremost motorcycle show and the only event in the province at which all of the major manufacturers showcase their new models.

Visitors are offered an exclusive opportunity to view and receive information on the newest bikes and accessories direct from the manufacturers and their factory representatives and dealers – including Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Harley-Davidson, BMW, Ducati, Victory, KTM, and Hyosung.

DATES & TIMES:
• Thursday, January 22 – 5 to 9 p.m.
• Friday, January 23 – 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Saturday, January 24 –10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Sunday, January 25 –10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

ADMISSION:
Adults: $12.00
Juniors/Youth (6-15): $8.00
Children (under six and accompanied by an adult): Free
Family (2 Adults/2 Juniors): $34.00

LOCATION:
TRADEX is just 50 minutes from Vancouver along the scenic Trans-Canada Highway #1 and immediately adjacent to the Abbotsford International Airport (YXX) at 1190 Cornell Street, Abbotsford, B.C., V2T 6H5.

PARKING:
1800 additional spaces have been added to available parking plus a shuttle to drop you off at the front door! Ride your motorcycle to the Show and you park for free!

STATISTICS:
- 37,000 visitors
- 175 exhibitors
- 143,000 square-foot show floor

For more details check out the event website here. Warning - site automatically opens with audio so turn down the speakers!

Konker Motors is a Langley BC based company that manufactures Dirt Bikes, ATV's, and street legal scooters from China and distributes them to qualified distributors/dealers across world.

For 2009, they'll be bringing their first street legal motorcycle to the Canadian market. It's billed the Konker KSM200 and its engine is built in a Suzuki partnered factory and comes with a full one year warranty.

The engine is said to be the same as you'd get in the tried and true Suzuki DR200. That means it'll be a 200cc single cylinder four stroke. Given its lineage, the engine should be VERY fuel efficient and durable.

The super-moto can be gotten with a bolt on 21" front / 18" rear wheel kit comes complete with drum brake, rotor, and sprocket. So you'll be able to quickly convert the SUPER-MOTO into an off-road enduro without the hassle of switching brakes, discs, or sprockets. The O.E.M. off road 21/18” bolt on tire package is available for just $495.

One very nice feature of the Konker KSM200 - it'll have a price of only $2,995.

If you compare that in price to the Suzuki DR200SE MSRP of $4,699, you'll be left with $1,704 in the bank if you go with the Konker and that's not accounting for taxes either. If you factor in 13% tax it's very near a $2,000 difference.

That'll be plenty enough reasons for many folks to give the Konker a try.

- To find out more about Konker Motorsports you can check out their website here.
- For more News items involving Konker Motorsports check out all our Konker posts here.

Canadians will finally have a bonafide Canadian Enduro Championship (CEC) in 2009 and beyond.

Details are:

A 4 event, 8 race series organized by World Enduro Canada (WEC) (see www.worldendurocanada.com)

Dates and locations in 2009 are:

July 4/5 Pincher Creek AB
July 11/12 Okanogan Valley BC

September 12/13 Quebec TBA
September 19/20 Parry Sound, Ontario

Dates and locations are subject to change at this early time

The competition format is based on the World Enduro Championship, 3 different (Cross, Extreme and Enduro) timed special tests and shorter loops of trails connecting the test. WEC purchased a computerized timing system that uses programmable transponders the system provides prompt, accurate results.

An important point is the event offers a pro purse. The value riders have to sponsors increased overnight, the plan is improve the marketability of Canadian
riders, give sponsors good return on their investment, stimulate the off-road motorcycle market, decide who the fastest off-road riders in Canada are in both Pro and Amateur classes, provide spectators entertainment and most of all give the competitors an overall positive experience.

Incentives will be in place for riders to travel to the four events which are scored separately each of the two days. Arrangements have been made for a motorcycle transportation package through sponsor Brian Kurtz Trucking, Guelph, On. For $700 a bike, gear bag, 2 spare tires or pop-tent will be transported to each of the 2 'Away' events and back. Motorycles will be delivered to each event site. Also any Canadian-based rider who crosses the Manitoba/Ontario border and competes in the entire series gets a free entry to the 'away' events. Entry fees are set at $100 per event, each competitor must purchase or rent a transponder for $40 and join the MCC.

The motto of the CEC is "The Fastest Rider Wins".

Because the format of the competition aligns with what happens in most of the world WEC expects Canadian riders to become more competitive in international events in the future.

For more information interested parties can their questions via e-mail to our website.

The Motorcycle & Moped Industry Council is gearing up for the annual motorcycle show circuit. There's going to be a big show in several Canadian Cities this year.

Here's the list of cities:

Toronto, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, Quebec City, Moncton, and Montreal.

Details on the dates and times are listed below or visit the MMIC website for additional information:

2008 Toronto Motorcycle Show

December 12 - 14, 2008 (Friday to Sunday)
Metro Toronto Convention Centre
North Building, 255 Front St. West
Toronto, Ontario

Contact Information
Darryl Bond - Show Manager
bond@sportshows.ca

Tel: 905-361-5234
Toll-Free: 1-888-695-2677
Fax: 905-361-2679

2009 Calgary Motorcycle Show

January 9 - 11 (Friday to Sunday)
Roundup Centre, Stampede Park
Calgary, Alberta
Contact Information
Show Manager: Lauri Paetz
paetz@sportshows.ca

Tel: (403) 245-9008
Toll-Free: 1-866-704-4412
Fax: (403) 245-5100

2009 Edmonton Motorcycle Show

January 16 - 18 (Friday to Saturday)
Northlands Park - Agricom
Edmonton, Alberta

Contact Information
Show Manager: Lauri Paetz
paetz@sportshows.ca
Tel: (403) 245-9008
Toll-Free: 1-866-704-4412
Fax: (403) 245-5100

2009 Vancouver Motorcycle Show

January 22 - 25 (Thursday to Sunday)
Tradex Exhibition Centre
Abbotsford Airport, British Columbia

Contact Information
Show Manager: Nanette Jacques
njacques@shaw.ca
Tel: (604) 535-7584
Toll-Free: 1-800-663-8815
Fax: (604) 535-1463

2009 Quebec City Motorcycle Show

February 6 - 8 (Friday thru Sunday)
Centre de foires de Québec
Quebec City, Québec

Contact Information
Show Manager: Corinne Belmonte

Tel: (514) 285-2686 XT 2248
Fax: (514) 282-4292

2009 Atlantic Motorcycle Show

February 13 - 15 (Friday to Sunday)
Moncton Coliseum
Moncton, N.B.

Contact Information
Show Manager: Scott Sprague

Phone: (506) 658-0018
Toll Free: 1-888-454-7469
Fax: (506) 658-0750

2009 Montreal Motorcycle Show
February 20 - 22 (Friday to Sunday)
Montreal Convention Centre
Montreal, Quebec

Contact Information
Show Manager: Corinne Belmonte
Tel: (514) 285-2686 XT 2248
Fax: (514) 282-4292

A Canadian has set a couple of new records at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. Jason McVicar of Vancouver experienced a crash while riding his Suzuki Hayabusa 1300 as he was attempting to establish the speed record for the fastest production motorcycle ever.

Well, he set a speed record at 407 km/hr for production bikes but he also set the fastest crash ever at 391 km/h.

What makes the story more amazing is that he survived the crash without serious injury. In fact, considering the speed at which he crashed, he faired remarkably well. The same can't be said about his bike though. Totally destroyed!

Here's a link to a YouTube clip of Jason talking about the incident.

Oak Bay (BC) resident Manon Elder's paintings are set to be featured on an upcoming motorcycle themed series Sons of Anarchy. It`s a big deal for the artist; "If it was Vancouver you'd be thrilled," said Elder, who graduated in fine arts from University of Victoria in 1976. "But the thing about Hollywood is it has that panache that sends it into the ionosphere."

Elder's art will be featured on the new FX (Fox-Extended) TV series Sons of Anarchy, which makes its debut tonight at 10 p.m. on FX stations across the U.S. There is talk of future air dates on a Canadian network.

13-part series stars Ron Perlman, Katey Sagal and Charles Hunnam and focuses on an outlaw motorcycle club and its turf war with drug dealers and real estate developers.

Elder, who was born in Ottawa, said the call from the Sons of Anarchy team came out of the blue last May.

"They said they were doing a TV show on motorcycles and it would be like The Sopranos but with a motorcycle club as its base," she said.

Elder says she got interested in motorcycle art after deciding on a whim to paint Shaw Communications CEO Jim Shaw when he was seated on his Harley for her series Men With Pens.

"On his motorcycle he became so animated. It was one of the truest to his being," recalled Elder, who soon became immersed in motorcycle culture. "I found out I could paint chrome and from this came the spark. I painted leather and it became a textural feeling. It just hasn't stopped. Sometimes you choose what you do and other times it chooses you."

Elder's oil-on-canvas originals can be seen at On Canvas Gallery, 538-B Yates St. Her giclees on canvas (high-quality reproductions), are on view at Dominguez Gallery at the Sooke River Hotel. On the web: www.emotionmotorcycleart.com

Okay so this really isn't motorcycle news but we're on the road and things like this may affect a certain few of us so we thought we'd include it.

Speeding on Knight St. in Vancouver BC has gotten so bad that the police have resorted to having 8 life size pictures of a policeman holding a radar which they have placed along the road. Actual policemen may stand a short distance behind the figure in some cases and in other cases they're not.

I guess they're pretty realistic looking too - earlier this week a tow truck driver pulled up beside one of the figures and started talking to it!

Vancouver police traffic Staff Sgt. Ralph Pauw indicated that the decoys are being used on Knight St. because it is one of the worst corridors for traffic fatalities and injuries, he said, adding there were 25 fatalities in Vancouver last year and seven so far this year. Vancouver police have recorded motorists speeding along Knight Street at up to 115 km/h in a 50 km/h zone.

"The average ticketed speed is 84 km/h," Pauw said. "We're just trying anything that works to reduce those numbers."

The cardboard cops are part of a police initiative called Operation Silhouette, which will run for the next six months in various locations around the city.

There are only 3 weeks left to register for this famous BC dual-sport motorcycle event. More details here.

The premier annual dual-sport motorcycle event in British Columbia is named after a series of challenging trails in the Onion Lake Riding Area west of Spences Bridge.

There will be two courses to ride:

The "C" loop is for those riders that are new to Dualsporting and for riders that are looking for a scenic ride through some of the areas most beautiful Forest Service Roads and easy secondary trails. This course is also planned with some sections that will test your abilities.

The "A/B" loop is for the seasoned rider. This is a course that will continuously test your abilities through out the day. Bring friends . . .you will need their help!

The Dead Zone event will be based out of the village of Spences Bridge, British Columbia. This is on Highway 1 in the Fraser Canyon, less than 4 hours north of Vancouver and the US border.

Pre-Registration by June 10, 2008 is required. No same-day entries.

DualSportBC promotes safe, legal and low-impact use of trails and forest roads, in harmony with ranchers, loggers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, hikers and other motorized trail users.

Please visit www.DualSportBC.com to learn more about this event and other activities.