Category: Motorcycles

1. 50,000+ BMWs R and K series are to be recalled

   Posted on 9:00am Thursday 9th Jan 2014

   The German manufacturer BMW are to recall 1,000's of motorcycles built between January 2004 and 2012 (both boxer and four-cylinder models), over a possible fuel leak.

   It has been discovered that a fuel pump flange on theses models can crack, causing petrol to escape. Customers are to be notified and the flanges will be modified and replaced as necessary.

   BMW GB are however anxious to point out this is not a matter for panic, as there have been no safety issues related to this in the UK. Owners will either have the fix carried out for free at a BMW dealer at their request or at the next service. A spokesman added: "Technically it is not classed as a ‘recall’ in the UK, as it is not safety related and customers will not be asked to immediately return their bikes to the dealers. We would class it as a campaign."

   The measures follow an investigation by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration into consumer complaints. The fault concerns more than 50,000 motorcycles in America alone.

   One owner told the NHTSA: “I started the motorcycle engine and a few seconds after it started, gasoline started to gush from the front of the bike onto the engine. Before I knew it, I was in a puddle of gasoline. I shut it off as soon as I realized what was happening. I mopped up the gasoline off of the floor to eliminate the fire danger.”

   A report posted by BMW on the NHTSA’s website says the first warrantee claim describing a fuel leak was received in 2006.

   The models affected are:

   BMW HP2 ENDURO 2006
   BMW HP2 MEGAMOTO 2008-2009
   BMW HP2 SPORT 2008-2010
   BMW K 1200 GT 2006-2008
   BMW K 1200 R 2006-2008
   BMW K 1200 R SPORT 2007
   BMW K 1200 S 2005-2008
   BMW K 1300 GT 2009-2011
   BMW K 1300 S 2009-2011
   BMW K 1600 GT 2012
   BMW K 1600 GTL 2012
   BMW R 1200 GS 2005-2011
   BMW R 1200 GS ADVENTURE 2006-2011
   BMW R 1200 R 2007-2011
   BMW R 1200 RT 2005-2011
   BMW R 1200 S 2007
   BMW R 1200 ST2005-2007
   BMW S 1000 RR2010-2011

    

   www.bmw-motorrad.co.uk

2. KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R ARRIVES IN THE UK

   Posted on 11:35am Friday 13th Dec 2013

   The Beast is unleashed on the streets along with a competition to win one

   •1290 Super Duke R arrives
   •Demo bikes will become available
   •£13,999 on the road
   •Free-to-enter competition to win a 1290 SDR
   •Go to www.1290superduker.com
   
   The KTM 1290 Super Duke R has arrived at UK, Ireland and Channel Island dealers along with the chance to win one in a competition
   
   The eagerly awaited V-twin made its first UK appearance at Motorcycle Live earlier this month and the Austrian machine was constantly surrounded by showgoers desperate to get a close look at the 180hp, 189kg super naked.
   
   Despite packing more torque than the previous model at only 2500rpm and boasting a power-to-weight ratio of almost 1:1, the 1,301cc Super Duke is incredibly easy to ride thanks to a very sophisticated electronics package with multiple optional riding modes, altering the power delivery characteristics, traction control levels and ABS settings to suit the riders’ mood. But for those with an attitude to match the bike, these rider aids can also be turned off.
   
   With a UK price of £13,999 on the road and available in either Orange or Black, the Super Duke R will be available for demo rides at participating KTM dealers*.
   
   The news gets better; KTM is hosting a free-to-enter competition to win a 1290 via its dedicated microsite. Visit the site before December 31 and answer a few questions about your riding experience, what you’d expect from experiencing the 1290 Super Duke R and what you would do with the bike if you had the chance to have one. From this online audition, four riders will be chosen to borrow a bike throughout summer 2014 and document their experiences through social media channels. The riders who posts are the most popular will ride away with the bike that simply has no rivals.
   
   To discover your nearest KTM dealer, visit 

   

3. New Year, New Wheels with Can-Am Spyder Promotion

   Posted on 7:55am Friday 6th Dec 2013

   A new seasonal promotion offering savings of up to £2,500 (incl. VAT) on purchases of a new Can-Am Spyder from its 2013/2012 range of Sport Touring (ST) and Road Touring (RT) models until 28 February 2014 will give riders a three-wheeler experience with cutting-edge looks and excellent handling performance.

   Consumers who purchase a striking Can-Am Spyder ST, ST-S, RT, RT-S or RT techno model will save £1,250 (incl. VAT) while Can-Am ST LTD and RT LTD buyers will receive a saving of £2,500 (incl. VAT) from any authorised BRP participating dealer in the UK and Ireland, subject to available stock.

   Spyder enthusiasts will also benefit from BRP’s 4-year warranty coverage and 4-year roadside assistance offer, taking advantage of two additional years of cover for free. This promotion is also available on purchases of the 2013/2012 Can-Am Spyder RS or RS-S models.

   In addition, Spyder riders wanting to treat themselves this festive season will also be entered into the draw to win one of five an all-expenses paid place to attend one of BRP’s 2014 Spyder Rider Days community events worth over £400, including participation fee and hotel accommodation.                                                                                                      

   With its Rotax V twin engine and ‘Y’-shaped, three-wheeled design, the Can-Am Spyder delivers a bold, exhilarating new driving experience.  This sophisticated take on a motorcycle marries the open-air freedom of a motorbike with the comfort of a luxury car, and can be driven on a full car driving licence. Anti-lock brakes, stability control, cruise control and an optional clutchless semi-automatic transmission are key features of the Can-Am Spyder roadsters resulting in the effortless handling of corners and smooth acceleration.

4. New managerial appointments at Ducati Motor Holding

   Posted on 10:21am Thursday 28th Nov 2013

   Borgo Panigale (Bologna, Italy), 27 November 2013 – Newly appointed managerial positions at Ducati Motor Holding see Cristiano Silei now head of Sales & Marketing, while Diego Sgorbati becomes head of Motorcycle Related Products.

   The decision to establish two new managerial areas within the Ducati Motor Holding organisation has been driven by the constant growth and development of the iconic motorcycle manufacturer, combined with further upward momentum of the brand’s customer service.

   Cristiano Silei (previously Vice President of Sales) is now appointed Vice President of Sales & Marketing, in charge of creating a unified and cohesive strategy with renewed impetus. He will be supported by Roberto Righi (previously Director of Distributor Sales) who now takes on the new position of Director of Sales and to whom the Ducati sales network will now report.

   Diego Sgorbati is appointed Director of Motorcycle Related Products, responsible for ensuring a comprehensive Spare Parts, Accessory and Apparel range in addition to overseeing the Licensed Products & Services business unit. Within this business unit, Alessandro Cicognani (previously Head of Sponsorship) now becomes Director of Licensing & Corporate Partnerships.

    

    

5. Escape the day-to-day on one of six new models for 2014

   Posted on 7:48am Wednesday 20th Nov 2013

   Six new Triumphs have been unveiled in Milan at the EICMA International bike show, below is a taste of what you could be riding next.

   Tiger 800XC SE
   Our stunning new addition to the rugged Tiger 800 family will not only perform off the beaten track but it's distinctive special edition paint scheme will also get you noticed on the commute.

   Thunderbird Commander
   New muscle for your New Year's resolution? The wide wheeled Commander carries our 1700cc parallel twin powerplant and features two gorgeous paint options.

   Thunderbird LT
   Deep mudguards, wire-spoke rims and white wall tyres make the Thunderbird LT the ultimate cruiser-tourer. An all new seat configuration and hand painted pin stripe detail add to the luxury.

   America
   The most accessible entry into our cruiser range. Rider footboards, low seat height (690mm) and heel/toe shift make the America perfect for classic laid back cruising.

   America LT
   For those keen on long distance touring the America LT has, as standard, a touring screen, pillion sissy bar and panniers to add mile munching practicality to your journey.

   Speedmaster Our stripped back and blacked out cruiser. Wide handlebars, a skinny front tyre and blacked out engine cases gives the Speedmaster a moodier, hot-rod look for 2014.