Biker News - Regularly updated

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  1. Track cyclist and three-time Olympic Champion, Jason Kenny OBE is the proud owner of a brand new 2016 Kawasaki Z1000SX.

    Jason collected his ‘65 plate two-wheeled green machine from Bolton Motorcycles and was handed over the keys by Salesman, Michael Powell – this is his second purchase from the Lancashire-based dealership.

    “I decided it was time for a change of bike as my trusty BMW was due for it’s first MOT and out of warranty – that’s how I justified it to myself anyway! After reading 37,000 reviews online while away racing, I decided on the Z1000SX. It seemed to tick all the boxes for me. After a couple of emails to Bolton motorcycles it was organised for when I got back in the UK. Easy as that, top service as always from from those guys.

    “I’ve done a couple of hundred miles on the bike now and it’s getting better everyday. I’m absolutely over the moon with it, a real pleasure to ride. I’ve got the first service just booked and Jonathan knows I want a track bike after Rio 2016, so he’s lending me a Kawasaki ZX636 to have a bit of fun on, I can’t wait…”, said Jason.

    Since its launch, the Z1000SX has dominated the sports touring segment and it Kawasaki Motor UK’s number one best seller.

    The 2016 Kawasaki Z1000SX now comes with a race-inspired FCC assist and slipper clutch – with 30% lighter feel at the level, the Slipper Clutch will appeal to both sports bike riders and those adjusting to the weight of a pillion and luggage. It also comes with ABS as standard and in new colour options – all with the added bonus of no price increase for 2016.

    Jonathan Hughes, General Manager of Bolton Motorcycles, said: “It’s always a pleasure when Jason comes into the dealership for a catch up. Jason has added the Z1000SX to the Royal Enfield which he also loves to ride. Thanks again for your business and good luck for next year and hopefully Rio.”

    Craig Watson, UK Sales Manager for Kawasaki UK, said: “We’re really pleased that Jason chose the Z1000SX – and with the new upgrades on the 2016 model, it’s great timing for him to buy one. We’ve invited him to join us for one of the British Superbike rounds to see the guys in action and introduce him to our race teams. Maybe after Rio, we can get him on track day!”

    swaps pedal power for horsepower with Kawasaki Z1000SX

    Jason Kenny OBE, swaps pedal power for horsepower with Kawasaki Z1000SX

  2. KICKBACK #7 takes place at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea from 12-13th December 2015. The KICKBACK Show will feature a stunning and unique collection of custom-made motorcycles.

    As well as a fine showcase of modern-retro custom motorbikes there will also be a stunning exhibition of motorcycle art; as five distinguished artists exhibit their work over the two days of the show.

    The KICKBACK gallery includes exquisite pieces from Brett Breckon, Albie Espinola, Talana Gamah, Barry Lord and Marty James. Take a look at just some of their work below.

    KICKBACK Chelsea: Motorbikes. Engineering. Design. Lifestyle. Art.

    Free tickets to KICKBACK are available along with more information at TheCustomShow.com

    KICKBACK takes place inside the Great Hall at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea, London from 12-13th December 2015.

    KICKBACK is in association with Warr's Harley Davidson, Krazy Horse, Fastec Racing, Vulcanet, Urban Rider, 100% Biker, Dime City Cycles, Asphalt & Dirt and Black & White.

  3. Expert psychologists have concluded that multi-tasking whilst driving is a myth – and the most dangerous of those driving multi-tasks is texting and talking on a mobile phone, according to a new report produced by the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) and the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL).

    The research focuses on the dangers involved when drivers try and engage in more than one task, indicating this can have a ‘detrimental’ effect on the quality and accuracy of driving performance.

    The findings come from a report launched this week titled ‘The battle for attention’, jointly produced by TRL researchers Dr Neale Kinnear and Dr Alan Stevens, and the IAM’s director of policy and research Neil Greig.

    Dr Kinnear, who is a senior psychologist in the study of human behaviour and transport, and Dr Stevens, who is chief scientist and research director with internationally recognised expertise in ‘Human-Machine Interaction’, both reviewed existing research behind in-car distractions to understand the various cognitive processes and complexities in driving.

    They said texting engages three of the five key areas of distraction to a ‘high’ level – cognitive, visual and manual. A mobile phone conversation also engages three of five areas of distraction to a ‘high’ level – cognitive, audible and exposure time.

    Figures from the Department for Transport (DfT) in 2013 found 2,995 cases where distraction in the vehicle was listed as a contributory factor to accidents. A further 1,627 cases were listed where distraction outside the vehicle was a contributory factor.

    The report says: “Research has confirmed that tasks almost always interfere with other tasks carried out at the same time. The brain never actually focuses on two tasks at the same time – it switches back and forward between them.

    “As driving is so complex and requires various cognitive processes, taking on another task when driving can mean a driver is unable to pay sufficient attention to all the activities required for safe driving. This can lead to a processing failure resulting in a loss of control, putting the driver and other road users in physical danger.”

    Sarah Sillars, IAM’s chief executive officer, said: “This is proof, should it be needed, that multi-tasking and driving simply don’t mix. Whilst there are plenty of distractions to tempt the driver, the individual needs to know that the phone, or internet, or the iPod simply don’t matter – driving is the only activity that should occupy your mind while at the wheel.

    “It’s important that we work with the government, car makers and educators to deliver a renewed focus on driver training and road safety – and that people know that distractions can be fatal.”

    A full copy of the report can be downloaded here

  4. To celebrate the creation of Route 66 in 1926, Orange & Black is organising a special celebratory tour led by guide Bear (Gary Fleshman) and they are delighted to announce a very special tour guest: Henry Cole, TV motorcycle tour show presenter.

    Henry says: 

    "Route 66 was a road that changed my life. So much so that I made not one but two TV programmes featuring the ‘Mother Road’.There is no ribbon of road like Route 66. Every mile is steeped in automotive history, along this boulevard of dreams lie the first petrol station, the first road side diners, the first motels, all to cater for the new breed of automotive traveller. Every day you feel you're riding in your very own road movie but it's your reality as you ride your Harley on America’s Main Street. The 90th Anniversary of Route 66 seems like the perfect opportunity to celebrate the World’s most iconic road especially in the company of Bear, Orange & Black's walking talking all-American encyclopaedia of Route 66 guide, who's travelled it nearly 150 times! If you speak to anyone Bear has been on tour with they will tell you just how much of a unique experience it is. 


    Starting in Chicago on 30 September 2016, they have just 15 shiny new 2016 Harley-Davidsons available and they will ride all the way to Santa Monica Pier, with a full service support vehicle. He’ll be stopping at some of the great little places that Bear knows on the Orange & Black Route 66 Guided Tour, meet some of his personal friends, and of course I want to take you to some of the places that I really want to visit again that you’ll recognise from my TV programmes.

    David at Orange & Black told me of a comment he received from a customer who had just completed his second tour with Bear. When asked what his single favourite moment was, he said ‘Chicago to LA’. I know exactly what he means. It’s going to be a great ride and a fun-filled two weeks on the road - I do hope you will join us!"

    See the details on the tour here