Category: Random

1. New Touratech skid plates

   Posted on 12:00pm Tuesday 4th Apr 2017

   Field-Tested in the Harshest Conditions: New Touratech Skid Plates

   Products that cope with tough racing and off-road conditions are certainly fit for everyday use. This is the reason why Touratech tends to test new products in rally and enduro events before putting them on the market. 
   
   Good examples for field-tested accessories are the new “Rallye” and “Rally Extreme” skid plates which combine modern production techniques with a unique design for the best possible protection of the entire engine area. In the toughest test conditions, the “Rally Extreme” version demonstrated its qualities on the Touratech Africa Twin RR, the winning bike in the 2016 Hellas Rallye in Greece.
   
   The unique design of the 4 mm thick aluminium part guarantees effective protection and high stability and gives the bike a sporty, modern look. Thanks to a new deep-draw manufacturing process, there are no disturbing welds, which are often considered to be a vulnerable point. The recesses on the underside provide the shock absorbing and lightweight aluminium with a robust stiffness. And as well as that, the two parallel recesses allow the bike to almost glide over obstacles. This way, the energy of the impact is effectively dissipated, preventing jamming or snagging.

   
   The “Rallye” skid plate is available in anodized black and bare aluminum finishes for the Honda Africa Twin CRF 1000L and soon also for the BMW R 1200 GS (LC) / Adventure (LC) and the KTM models 1050 Adventure, 1190 Adventure / R und 1290 Super Adventure.
   For the Africa Twin Touratech has two sizes; the standard size also works with DCT or standard bikes with crash bars installed while the larger Extreme version for manual transmission bikes has increased coverage area eliminating the need for lower crash bars. It is designed to withstand really tough use with the lowest possible weight.

    

2. Poole Dream Machines Full Season Saved for 2017

   Posted on 12:00pm Monday 3rd Apr 2017

   Poole’s premier weekly motorcycle event Dream Machines has been saved for the full 26 week April-end of September season and will start on 4 April 2017 thanks to support from Poole Quay businesses.

   Following the announcement that the event would be limited to 18 weeks from May-end August because not enough people had come forward as Volunteer Marshals, Poole Quay businesses including The Lord Nelson, Poole Quay Fish & Chips Kiosk and Quayside Emporium have rallied a new group of volunteers to help support the event.

   The new Volunteer Marshals will be providing support particularly in April and September, the two months the event was due to lose. 

   With Poole Tourism providing paid Marshals from May to end of August, the support of the new Volunteer Marshals will ensure the event can now run safely for a full season in 2017.

   Graham Richardson, Poole Tourism Manager, said; “Huge thanks go to the Poole Quay businesses for working to make this happen. With them providing support through their volunteers to cover for the months of April and September it means that riders will now be able to enjoy the full 26 weeks of Dream Machines as usual.The event could not happen without them and we hope that riders will come out and show their thanks and support for Volunteer Marshals, the Quay businesses and the event.”

   The aim is that with the help of the new volunteers, Poole Dream Machines will again have a passionate and committed group of Volunteer Marshals who are willing and able to support the event in future years. 

   Leigh Whittall, owner of the Fish and Chips Kiosk, said; “Dream Machines is a really important event for Poole Quay and the businesses operating there. It is part of Poole’s heritage and is vital to keep businesses and facilities open for everyone to use.  It is fantastic that people are now showing their support but we are on the look out for more, as with a bigger pool of volunteers it makes it more manageable for people to be involved.”

   Graham Richardson,said; “Whilst it’s great that the event will now take place for 2017, it’s really important that more volunteers, especially riders who enjoy the event, get involved and make the effort to support it.  If people don’t we could be in be in this position again next year or in danger of losing it altogether.”

   Anyone who would like to volunteer can contact The Lord Nelson , the Fish and Chip Kiosk and Quayside Emporium or email: [email protected]
   

   Season armbands are on sale now costing £8, at the same price, now for the 26 week season and are available from Poole Tourist Information Centre, based in Poole Museum or from The Lord Nelson, the Fish and Chip Kiosk and Quayside Emporium.

3. ** THE BIKERS - tour of South West France and the Pyrenees.

   Posted on 9:00am Saturday 1st Apr 2017

   

    

   The itinerary below is subject to change (mainly the wine tasting during the day), however the hotel, breakfast, lunches and dinner are included. 

    

   Itinerary and Escorted Tours include:
   
   Saturday arrival: Ride your Motorcycle to arrive at the hotel in Barbotan Les Thermes -  www.hotelcantegrit.com
   6.30pm: Welcome reception followed by a 3 course dinner.
   
   Sunday: Breakfast 8.30 – 10.00 am. (Room service also available).
   
   10am - Depart for road trip to Chateau Viella, Madiran/Pacherenc wine region. A tasting of Pacherenc/Madiran wines accompanied by local h’ordeuvres.
   12.30pm lunch  at a local bistro in the Madiran region.
   3.30pm - Return to the hotel.
   Free evening.

   Monday: Continental breakfast 7.30 – 8.30am. 

   8.30am - Depart for the Pic du Midi one of the highest points in the Pyrenees. Ski lift to the observation tower. Lunch at 12.30pm, followed by a guided tour of the museum and the history behind the amazing construction feat at 10,000 ft. of elevation!
   3.30pm - Return to the hotel.
   7.45pm (Coach transport) Three course meal catered by a local Traitor at Le bistro Palombiere, in Monguilhem.
   
   Tuesday: Breakfast 8.30 – 10.00 am. 
   
   10.00am – Depart for a tasting at Tariquet - the largest private wine producer in France.
   12.30pm – Eauze – lunch at Café de France restaurant.
   2.30pm - Depart for Chateau Millet in Parleboscq, offering a wine tasting and a sampling of produits du terroir.
   5.00pm - Return to the hotel.
   7.45pm - Coach to Auberge de Manciet restaurant for a classical three course French meal.
   
   Wednesday: Breakfast 8.30 – 10.00 am. 
   
   A free leisurely morning in Barbotan; enjoying the colourful local market offering produits du terroir by local artisans, followed by a pre-lunch appetizer of Arcachon oysters on the half shell and a glass of sparling wine.
   12.30pm - Lunch at Estanquette restaurant, offering wonderfully prepared local food.
   Free afternoon. To enjoy the Spa in Barbotan. (Must be booked well in advance) or a a pre- booked spin around the famous Nogaro Motorsports circuit or a breath-taking aerial flight in a single engine plane, glider or ultra-lite at the Nogaro airport.
   Free evening.
   
   Thursday: Breakfast 8.30 – 9.30 am. 
   
   9.30am - Road trip to the beautiful city of Pau – home and birthplace of Henry IV. 
   A half- day, self-escorted sightseeing: Cathedral, Chateau and the boulevard des Pyrenees with plenty of chic shopping. 
   1.00pm - Lunch at a local restaurant, La Majestic.
   3.00pm - Journey to the Juracon wine area with a tasting of the famous Juranson sec et doux wines at Chateau Lafitte.  
   5.00pm – Return to the hotel.
   7.45pm – Coach to a local bistro/restaurant, Le Houga.

   Friday: Breakfast 8.30 – 9.30 am. 
   
   9.30am - Road trip to St. Pouy – A tour and overview of an authentic producer of foie gras (Terre Blanche), followed by lunch.
   2.00pm - A visit to Chateau Monluc. A tour of the cellers and an introduction to the colorful history of Gascony, Armagnac and the alambic distillation process. Followed by a tasting.
   3.30pm - Return to the hotel.
   7.30pm – Farewell and closing dinner at the hotel. 

   Saturday: Breakfast and departure by 10am. 

    

   Itinerary not currenty confirmed (22nd Feb 2017) 

4. MICHELIN POWER DAYS RETURN FOR 2017

   Posted on 12:00pm Friday 17th Mar 2017

   Following the success of Michelin track days with Terry Rymer Racing in 2016, the team are back and offering you the chance to ride 5 legendary UK circuits at an unbeatable price of just £49 when you purchase a set of Michelin Power Cup Evo, Michelin Power Slick Evo, Michelin Power Rain or the NEW Power RS in 2017 from participating dealers.
   
   Riders are invited to attend a track day hosted by racing hero and twice World Endurance Champion, Terry Rymer. Special guests are also due to attend with the likes of Steve Parrish, Chris Walker and Gary Mason on track at last year’s events. The day will include 120 minutes of track time along with tyre technical workshops and track day tuition from Terry himself. Refreshments are included and riders will also take home a photo and limited edition t-shirt and mug.

   Michelin Power Days 2017 will begin on 26th June heading back to the ever popular Brands Hatch GP circuit and on to the historic Cadwell Park on the 17th July followed by demanding Oulton Park on 26th July and back by popular demand Knockhill Circuit in Scotland on 18th August. New for this year, Michelin Power Days will also visit Bishopscourt Circuit in Northern Ireland on 22nd August.
   
   Following the success of Michelin’s return to MotoGP, the French tyre-giant’s sports tyre expertise has been proven at the top level, resulting in the launch of the new Power RS hypersport tyre. Developed using the new ACT+ technology in casing design, coupled with new race bred compounds derived directly from Moto GP, this tyre optimises steering force and feedback. Whether on the road, or on the occasional track day, the Power RS is extremely agile, with exceptional directional stability and impeccable handling in cornering. In recent BMW Motorad tests, the Power RS set the benchmark against all its nearest rivals.

   Places are subject to availability and are certain to sell out quickly. To find your nearest participating Michelin Power Days dealer and book your place visit www.powerdays.co.uk

5. Carl Cox Motorsport mixes it up with sponsorship and promotion of Michael Dunlop

   Posted on 9:33am Friday 10th Mar 2017

   Carl Cox Motorsport has announced their progression to the very highest level of Road Racing in partnership with 13-time TT-winner Michael Dunlop

   Bringing together the adrenalin fuelled worlds of music and motorsport, the partnership looks to bring the exploits of Dunlop to an even wider audience, as Carl Cox presents the enigmatic Ulsterman to his vast fanbase.

   At just twenty-seven years old, Dunlop has already made TT history, being the first rider to lap the 33¾ mile circuit in under 17 minutes (with a 133.962mph average speed lap) and with 13 wins is placed fifth in the all-time standings.

   In 2017 Dunlop will be campaigning machinery in the RST Superbike, Monster Energy Supersport, RL360 Quantum Superstock and PokerStars Senior TT races at the Isle of Man TT Races fuelled by Monster Energy as well as the North West 200, Ulster GP and other selected events. He will be running his own MD Racing team in the more production spec Superstock and Supersport classes with high visibility Carl Cox Motorsport branding.

   Internationally renowned DJ Carl Cox has been a long-time admirer of the TT and the impressive performances of Dunlop. In fact Cox has for many years arranged his schedule around Mona’s Isle and the White Isle, playing end of TT Week sets in Douglas, Isle of Man, before his traditional Ibiza residency.

   Cox has been supporting motorsport teams in events as diverse as the Ducati Tri-Options Cup in British Superbikes (winning the class twice), classic and sidecar racing in both the Northern and Southern Hemisphere whilst promoting new young talent in New Zealand’s 250cc Hyosung Cup.

   The partnership was forged as Dunlop visited the traditional Cemetery Circuit races in New Zealand on Boxing Day, spending time with the Carl Cox Motorsport crew and trying out their sidecar for size.

   Michael Dunlop explained;
   "Carl is a household name and it’s great to have such a big character supporting the team this year. Carl Cox Motorsport have a presence across many different types of racing, so it will be great to see them so involved on the Roads. It is an exciting opportunity to link up with Carl who I know shares our enthusiasm for racing, and hopefully we can bring him and the team even more success.”
   
   Carl Cox commented,
   “We’re excited to be part of Michael Dunlop's upcoming season, and of course the 2017 IOM TT! Michael has been very supportive of us working together and I'm looking forward to some great, fast racing, forging a good team relationship and sharing all the memorable moments along the way. I can't wait to be there!”
   
   Gavin Sokolich, Brand Manager Carl Cox Motorsport added:
   “This will be our first year involved with a two-wheeled campaign at the IOM, and over the last two years we have been actively looking into which rider we could support. We've been fortunate enough to get to know Michael over the last year and we feel the two brands would easily work together. We're absolutely thrilled to be associated with such a talented rider and crew for this year's races.”

   Follow Michael and the team at www.carlcoxmotorsport.com and www.facebook.com/carlcoxmotorsport/