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Automotive industry charity, Ben, today highlights the ongoing cost-of-living pressures faced by automotive families and launches the third year of its summer holidays support programme.
Ben is spreading the word that the charity is here for families and individuals who are struggling with money worries, debt or urgent financial need this summer and beyond. Ben’s summer holidays support programme continues to provide families with essentials, including food; bills; school uniforms; emotional support and an opportunity to spend quality time together on a day out or activity, creating precious memories as a family.
In the past year, Ben’s helpline supported over 15,000 enquiries and over 700 financial grants were administered to those struggling with money. And, according to Ben’s latest research, money worries remain a big problem for automotive workers, with many still impacted by cost-of-living pressures. 1 in 6 people reported skipping meals, 1 in 5 have experienced issues with debt and 1 in 4 of those considering leaving the industry reported they had financial problems.
With the summer holidays now in full swing, this time of year can be even more challenging for parents. Additional costs add up with children at home and activities, childcare, back-to-school items such as uniforms, bags and PE kits add to the financial strain. This is why Ben is urging automotive families to get in touch if they need support and quality time together. Ben’s purpose is to empower its automotive family to live their best lives – and family time is an integral part of that.
Families who have received Ben’s support recently said:
- “This is amazing.... I don't even know how to thank you for all the help and support.”
- “Thank you again for even taking the time to support me and my family.”
- “Thank you for being there for me. It means a lot.”
- “All uniforms are now purchased. Thanks to you I have one less thing to worry about.
The BMTA Trust is bolstering Ben’s summer support programme this year by providing £3,000 towards costs.
Rachel Clift, Ben’s CEO, said: “While summer should be an enjoyable time when families come together, it can bring real stress for those facing money worries. Ben’s new vision of an automotive family that thinks well, feels well, lives well and works well, focuses on a person’s whole life, including family and loved ones who play a big part in our overall health and wellbeing. That’s why, in addition to vital financial assistance, we’re helping families create meaningful experiences during the holidays, whether that’s a fun day out or a shared activity, that create lasting memories.
“Cost-of-living pressures continue to hit home, and our latest annual health and wellbeing survey found that stress and financial concerns remain among the biggest challenges for our sector. That’s why our purpose of empowering our automotive family to live their best lives is so important – we want to help people thrive.
“It’s vital we spread the word - Ben is here for automotive families this summer and beyond. We urge anyone feeling the financial strain to reach out early, as this can make all the difference.”
How to access Ben’s support
Ben’s helpline and services are available to anyone working, or who has worked, in the automotive industry, plus their family dependents.
Sign up to receive tips, advice and tools from Ben at www.ben.org.uk/signup and, for online support with money, visit www.ben.org.uk/money.
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From July 17th to 20th, the grounds of MSC Kleinhau once again turned into a haven for two-wheeled adventurers. For the third time, the ACT Camp took place – and with around 200 enthusiastic participants, it became the biggest and most emotional edition to date.
A Weekend to Remember
The camp offered everything an adventure rider could wish for: ideal riding conditions, perfect summer weather, tons of off-road action – and above all, a community unlike any other. From the very beginning, a warm and open atmosphere filled the air. Laughter, shared experiences, mutual support – everywhere you looked, people were connecting. On the trails, around the campfire, or during the evening sessions – ACT Camp 2025 was a place for like-minded people, celebrating not only adventure, but true camaraderie.
Riding Skills, Training & Trail Confidence
On the motocross track, both beginners and experienced riders could push their limits. They were supported by five professional trainers from the Endurocenter Mammutpark, who offered hands-on training, boosted confidence, and guided laps on the prepared terrain.
Those preferring scenic routes could join guided tours through the Eifel region, led by dedicated ACT members – a unique opportunity to discover the beauty of the area from the saddle.
A special shout-out goes to the track marshals, who came from the ranks of the participants themselves. Their presence proved vital, especially on the steep exit climb and after the track watering sessions, which added extra challenge to some sections. Their commitment was a true expression of the team spirit that defines the ACT community.
Contests, Fun & Great Prizes
Classic favorites like the Touratech Slow Motion Contest and Motorcycle Limbo returned, joined this year by two brand-new highlights: the NEXX Helmet Toss and the REV’IT! Agility Course – a fast-paced challenge combining balance, precision, and control.
Riders had the chance to win fantastic prizes, including:
Two REV’IT! jackets
One pair of Touratech Destino boots
A Nexx X.WED3 helmet
A complete Metzeler tire set of choice
A particularly touching moment was the first-ever Community Award, donated by Garmin, and awarded to the most helpful rider – voted for by the participants themselves. A recognition that perfectly captured the spirit of the weekend: support, community, and genuine kindness.
Learning & Inspiration
In the large event tent, knowledge and experience took center stage.
- Jan Jessen (NavAcademy) offered a step-by-step explanation on how to transfer GPX tracks to various navigation devices.
- Lutz von Steynitz shared valuable insights into Garmin-based offroad navigation.
- ACT members Uwe and Bernd presented their “Individual First Aid Kits” – an eye-opener for many in the audience.
- The program was rounded out by inspiring travel talks, including Marc von Papen ("From the Sea to the Mountains – 3 Years, 3 ACTs") and Kai Rohr ("How to Become an Adventure Rider").
Strong Partners – Strong Community
On the exhibitor mile, long-time ACT supporters Touratech, Garmin, NavAcademy, and Enduro Xperience presented their products and services. Touratech brought three motorcycles equipped with knobby tires and Touratech Suspension, which were tested by eager participants directly on the track.
Meanwhile, the MSC Kleinhau team made sure no one went hungry or thirsty – with their signature hospitality and dedication that has become an integral part of the ACT Camp experience.
Looking Back – And Ahead with Excitement
ACT Camp 2025 will be remembered as a weekend full of positive energy, deep connections, and joyful memories – all without a single significant incident or injury. Happy faces, new friendships, countless shared moments – this camp was special.
The team at ACT e.V. looks back with pride and says a heartfelt thank you:
To all participants, partners, trainers, track marshals, and volunteers.
And now?
We’re already counting down the days until next year.
ACT Camp 2026 – here we come!
About Adventure Country Tracks:
ACT Adventure Country Tracks® is an association for motorbike adventure riders that has been verifying new ACT tracks in Europe every year since 2016. Each ACT track is carefully developed and includes the best legally rideable tracks for heavy adventure motorbikes. The ACT tracks are available as GPX tracks in the members area of the ACT website.
Since 2016, the association has established tracks in Portugal, Italy, the Pyrenees, Romania, Greece, the UK, Croatia and Albania/Montenegro. Each ACT track is accompanied by an ACT film, which is produced thanks to the support of industry partners and makes an important contribution to the continued existence of the association.
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Touratech celebrates its 35th anniversary in 2025 – a milestone for the long-established company from the Black Forest, which has developed into a leading global supplier of high-quality motorcycle accessories since its foundation in 1990.
Creative early years
The beginnings of Touratech are characterised by creativity and pioneering spirit: two well-travelled motorcycle globetrotters were dissatisfied with the equipment available at the time and began developing motorcycle accessories for their own use in Niedereschach. The first commercially marketed product was the IMO 200T motorcycle computer – a device that was unique worldwide at the time for rally riders and long-distance travellers.
The next milestone followed in 1992 with the ZEGA Case: the first aluminium pannier developed specifically for motorcycles set new standards in luggage transport for adventure bikes – a concept that continues successfully in the ZEGA family to this day. In 1994, Touratech began producing high-strength pannier racks for the BMW R 1100 GS, thereby opening up further market segments.
OEM manufacturing as a driving force for professionalisation
A significant step towards industrialisation followed in 1997 with a major order from KTM for 1,000 IMO units – marking the company's entry into the OEM business. Touratech expanded, increased its production capacity and consistently professionalised its structures.
Consistent expansion of the product portfolio
Touratech AG was founded in 1999. With an expanding product portfolio, including suspension components (Touratech Suspension) and motorcycle clothing (e.g. textile suits from the Compañero range, helmets from the Aventuro family), Touratech established itself as a full-range supplier in the premium segment.
Top quality made in Germany
Production at the Niedereschach site is characterised by a high degree of vertical integration – for many products, this is 100 percent. The high product quality is guaranteed by the interaction of qualified employees and the use of advanced technologies such as CNC machining, laser cutting and state-of-the-art welding robots.
Another milestone in the company's history was ISO certification in 2004, which paved the way for long-term cooperation with premium manufacturers such as BMW. These partnerships, for example for the Vario or Adventure cases, are still characteristic of the high quality and innovative strength that distinguish Touratech as an OEM partner.
Strongly positioned with the Happich Group
Touratech has been part of the internationally active Happich Group since 2018. This affiliation has created new synergies, for example in the development of modern assembly lines and the integration of IT-supported production processes. In this way, series production of the new BMW Adventure case systems began in 2024 with three shifts.
Despite its professionalisation, Touratech has always remained true to its roots. Many of its more than 550 employees share a passion for motorcycling, and quite a few of them live the spirit of adventure, travelling far and wide on their bikes – an enthusiasm that is evident in the products.
Touratech as part of the adventure scene
But Touratech is much more than just a manufacturer of motorcycle equipment. Every year, the company organises one of the world's largest gatherings for motorcycle travellers with its Travel Event. With Touratech Active Adventure, these motorcycle enthusiasts have also created a unique riding event where adventure riders can legally ride a variety of attractive off-road trails in the Black Forest foothills. Twice a year, Touratech keeps the scene informed about the most important innovations in the adventure sector with its lavishly produced customer magazine TRAVEL TIME, which is available in both print and digital formats. And last but not least, as a founding sponsor, Touratech has initiated a Europe-wide movement with Adventure Country Tracks (ACT) that opens up off-road tracks where adventure riders can explore European countries off the beaten track.
Into the future with a strong team and creative energy
Today, Touratech is represented in over 50 countries and supplies not only discerning end customers but also motorcycle manufacturers such as BMW, Ducati and KTM. With its unwavering commitment to its Niedereschach location, a highly motivated team and innovative spirit, the company will confidently celebrate its 35th anniversary in 2025 – while at the same time looking resolutely ahead to the future.
www.touratech.com
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ALEX MARQUEZ #73
“It’s unclear to me what happened at the start. I “battled” with a tearoff, and it was Marc’s. I pushed it away, but the rear still span. Then, few moments later, I had a coming together with Fermin (turn 3) and that’s when I decided to take it steady in this Sprint, because it was a lost battle. We got some valuable data ahead of tomorrow and we’re not too far behind on the grid, so we’ll work hard in order to be competitive.”
FERMIN ALDEGUER #54
“Let’s say that this was more of a test for the race than a Sprint. We know we are strong in some areas of the track, even though we have to work on the electronic sides of the engine brake and traction, and why not, take a look at the data – especially Marc’s.”
Sprint - CzechGP
14th - FERMIN ALDEGUER #54
17th - ALEX MARQUEZ #73
World Championship Standings
2nd - ALEX MARQUEZ #73 (261 points)
10th - FERMIN ALDEGUER #54 (92 points)
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Royal Enfield announces its summer 2025 calendar packed with customer ride out opportunities with new events announced across the UK. 
Riders are invited to discover the current Royal Enfield model range at various riding events, including four Royal Enfield Demo Day rides, known as RED Days, at various locations across the UK in July and August, as well as the upcoming Women in Moto weekender, a Royal Enfield Owners Club Rally with the Himalayan 450 in Wales, and the next Journey, Destination, Memories event to take place in Norwich.
These events provide riders with even more opportunities to experience the current model range in the UK, with the one-of-a-kind community spirit that the Royal Enfield Riders Club is known for.
Royal Enfield Demo Days
The popular Royal Enfield Demo Days (RED Days) continue into summer 2025, with upcoming dates announced across July and August that will feature the entire Royal Enfield 2025 lineup for riders to test.
Riders should be sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment, and to secure their slot with the motorcycle of their choice.
Saturday, July 19 2025 - RED Days @ REVOLUTIONS
Bute House, Arran Road, Perth, PH1 3DZ
Book your slot here.
Saturday, July 26 2025 - RED Days @ EDDY’S MOTO
Unit 1&2, Guardian park, Tadcaster LS24 9SG
Book your slot here.
Saturday, August 9 2025 - RED Days @ CREWE MOTORCYCLE CENTRE
136-146 West St, Crewe CW1 3HQ
Book your slot here.
Sunday, August 24, 2025 - RED Days @ MIDWEST MOTO
Business Park, Ribbesford Rd, Stourport-on-Severn DY13 0TF
Book your slot here.
Women in Moto
The annual Women in Moto show, now on its fifth iteration, is set to take place on 16-17th August 2025 at Uttoxeter Racecourse, inviting the entire motorcycling community to get together and immerse themselves in all things moto, including test rides on the latest Royal Enfield range.
This is a weekend celebrating the incredible women in motorcycling, with inspirational speakers and panel talks from the women winning races to extraordinary solo tourers, workshops to get hands on, and plenty of riding opportunities for riders of all levels.
Find out more here.
Royal Enfield Owners Club Rally
Converging at Baskerville Hall in Wales from 15th-17th August 2025, the Royal Enfield Owners Club is set for a weekend exploring the 100 acres of surrounding forests & fields on the Himalayan 450.
Other Royal Enfield motorcycles will be available for test rides, with the Owners Club keeping numbers limited to around 200 to ensure equal opportunities for everyone in attendance.
From Thursday arrivals, there will be a full programme of activities on Friday and Saturday, Royal Enfield-related activities include:
• Hot & Cold! A presentation of Bill Grigg’s Royal Enfield adventures in Iceland and Morocco
• Basic off-road tuition sessions – Royal Enfield Himalayans provided
• Group ride-outs and route maps for suggested DIY rides
• Guided Trail Ride
• Have a ride on an old classic Royal Enfield
• Bike Judging
Cost: Free to Royal Enfield Owners Club (REOC) members and £10 for non-members (refundable if you join the REOC during the weekend).
Find out more here.
JDM - Wings and Wheels, Moonraker Motorcycles
Following the huge success of the initial ‘Journey, Destination, Memories’ ride at CooperB Motorcycles, the next JDM event has been confirmed at Wings & Wheels at Felthorpe Airfield on Tuesday 12th August, riding out from Moonraker Motorcycles in Norwich.
No booking is needed in advance, just turn up ready to depart from Moonraker’s at 6:00pm sharp. It’ll be a huge community ride out to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Moonraker Motorcycles - with food and drink by Zaks (Norwich’s American diner of choice).
Not one to be missed!
Find out more here.
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