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Comfy botty from Airhawk at Motohaus

no-spam@bikechatter.net (Leigh Godson) — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 14:01:32 +0000

Motohaus Powersports are the new UK distributor for Airhawk comfort seating systems. Airhawk's Dry Flotation Technology was originally developed in the USA for wheelchair users, who are at risk from pressure ulcers caused by remaining seated for long periods of time. Inter-connecting air cells in the Airhawk cushion equalise forces over weight bearing areas of the body and this sytem proved equally effective for motorcyclists.

Over the years Airhawk has built a reputation for enabling touring riders to spend longer in the saddle and their cushions have been used by Ewan McGregor on his Long Way Round trip and also by Guinness World Record breaking adventure motorcyclists Kevin and Julia Sanders, who rode around the world in 19.5 days.

Airhawk cushions are produced in sizes to suit most types of motorcycle. Retail prices start at £89 (including VAT) for a polyurethane cushion - the more durable neoprene versions sell from £169 (pillion versions are slightly less expensive).

For more information on the technology and complete range of Airhawk comfort seating systems call 01256 704909 or visit www.motohaus.com

Inazuma 250 Street Pack

no-spam@bikechatter.net (Leigh Godson) — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 13:58:30 +0000

Following the recent launch of Suzuki's Inazuma 250, that made headlines due to its impressive 85mpg* fuel consumption figure and a value busting recommended price, Suzuki is delighted to bring yet more value to customers with the introduction of a new Street Accessory Pack for the Inazuma. Making the already versatile 250 even more useful, the new accessory pack includes a top case kit, centre stand, accessory bar and tank protector, all for the recommended and subsidised retail price of £459 including VAT and fitment.

Suzuki GB's Accessory Manager, Andy Taylor, explained, "The Inazuma really has captured the imagination of UK riders and because of its frugality it's already becoming a hit with commuters. While the bike offers many attributes and functions not normally found on a machine in this sector of the market, we wanted to offer riders enhanced practically, which we believe is achieved with this new kit. While the components add practicality, we've managed to shave nearly £130 off of the individual accessory prices combined, to deliver greater value too."

The Inazuma 250 Street Pack can be purchased from any authorised Suzuki motorcycle dealer and comes with a two-year warranty if fitted at point of motorcycle purchase by the selling dealer.

For more information please contact your local authorised Suzuki dealer.The standard Inazuma 250 has a recommended retail price £3,408

*MPG data resulting from tests made by Suzuki in compliance with World Motorcycle Test Cycle. These tests were conducted by a single pilot with no additional optional equipment. Fuel consumption may vary depending on your riding style, how you maintain vehicle, weather, road conditions, tyre pressure, the presence of accessories, the load, the weight of the crew and many other parameters.

HJC lids for the Superbike School

no-spam@bikechatter.net (Leigh Godson) — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 13:54:00 +0000

California Superbike School's UK team of professional coaches will be wearing HJC RPHA 10+ helmets this year - the same model chosen by current MotoGP World Champion Jorge Lorenzo.Founded by the legendary Keith Code in 1980, the California Superbike Schools are dedicated to discovering, improving and refining the art of cornering. UK-based coaches are also responsible for students in Europe, Scandinavia, the Middle East, India and South Africa, operating from premises on the Silverstone Technology Park.

Following on-track testing at Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi the senior coaching staff opted for the RPHA 10+ because of its excellent fit and specification; “It's HJC's box-ready race helmet and comes with all the toys included; Pinlock, tear-off ready visor with integrated lock and spare tinted visor,” explains CSS General Manager Richard 'Badger' Browne. “When you're on track for 10 hours a day in climates as diverse as the UK and Africa, you need a helmet that's not only protective, but comfortable and well put together too. These new HJCs fit the bill perfectly.”

For more information on the latest helmets from HJC visit www.oxprod.com. Details of the 2013 schedule and courses available can be found at www.superbikeschool.co.uk or telephone 08700 671 061 for a brochure.

Panigale plus BikeTrac equals 25% off insurance

no-spam@bikechatter.net (Leigh Godson) — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 13:51:23 +0000

Buyers of a Ducati Panigale registered between now and April 30th 2013 and insured through Ducati Insurance will get a free Bike Trac system at no extra cost which in turn will entitle you to a 25% discount on Ducati insurance. The 1199 Panigale has set the benchmark for Superbikes and boasts the most powerful twin-cylinder production engine on the market. An innovative monocoque chassis and the superquadro engine combine to deliver an astonishing 195hp and 164kg, producing the highest motorcycle power-to-weight and torque-to-weight ratios in the world.

The addition of class leading technology including ABS, Traction Control, Electronic Suspension (‘S’ Version), Ducati Quick Shift, Engine Brake Control and ride- by- wire throttle produces an unrivalled Sportsbike package.

Desirable Superbikes such as the Panigale require top quality security protection and therefore Ducati UK has chosen the Bike Trac system for this unique offer.

Already endorsed by Ducati UK, Bike Trac is one of the most successful motorcycle-specific tracking devices on the market, with an unprecedented recovery record in the UK. The Thatcham approved device includes features such as bike down alerts (alerts others if involved in an accident), low battery alerts, downloadable road journeys and a live web portal. Alerts are also sent via email and text if a bike is moved outside of a geographical area (geo-fence).

Not only does the Bike Trac system increase the possibility of a Panigale being recovered if stolen ( 30 out of 33 motorcycles stolen were recovered in 2012) it is also eligible for a 25% discount from Ducati Insurance. Ducati Insurance covers all models, accessories, modifications and apparel and in the event of an accident will arrange recovery to a Ducati approved repairer.

Ducati UK Managing Director, Tim Maccabee commented, "To most Ducati owners their bike is much more than just a bike, it's something very personal. By introducing Bike Trac for the Panigale for a limited period, we believe we are giving our customers the best chance to keep theirs safe, while fighting bike crime in the process. The success rate and proven track record of the Bike Trac system is hugely impressive and in our opinion truly befits a motorcycle as special as the Panigale."

Bike Trac's Bill Taylor, added, "Ducati was one of the first manufacturers to endorse Bike Trac, so it's great to agree this association on a model as special as this. When the Panigale was first launched, we worked closely with Ducati UK to test our system and just a few months later the first Panigale was stolen and subsequently successfully recovered with one of our units fitted. On top of this news, to celebrate the re-launch of Ducati's official insurance scheme, we're also delighted to agree a 25% discount for Ducati owners who have Bike Trac fitted and insure through the scheme."

The offer is available on all brand new Ducati 1199 Panigale's ordered at authorised Ducati UK dealers between now April 30th and includes fitment of the Bike Trac unit and a 12 month subscription.

GlobeBusters head East

no-spam@bikechatter.net (Leigh Godson) — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 13:47:40 +0000

GlobeBusters, world leaders in transcontinental motorcycle expeditions, have relocated from West Wales to the town of Royston, on the Hertfordshire/Cambridgeshire border. Just 42 miles north of London, and close to both Stansted and Luton airports, GlobeBusters' new headquarters are easily accessible to customers from the UK and abroad and visitors are welcome to call in for a cuppa and a chat about the variety of expeditions to every continent that they offer. GlobeBusters will be exhibiting at the London Motorcycle Show, from 15th-17th February, and will then be busy preparing for their Silk Road and Tibet expedition.

Departing from London's Ace Café at the end of April, the group of 15 motorcyclists will cross Europe and Asia, arriving in Beijing after 11 weeks and 40,000 miles on the road.

There is still time to book a place on GlobeBusters' legendary Trans America expedition, which starts on 25th July. This will be the 5th time that Kevin Sanders has led the 24,000 mile adventure, taking riders from the Arctic tip of Alaska down to Tierra del Fuego in Patagonia, the most southerly point on the continent that is accessible by road.

For more information on the range of epic and overland adventures available from GlobeBusters, visit www.globebusters.com.

Free accessories with a new Suzuki

no-spam@bikechatter.net (Leigh Godson) — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 13:45:16 +0000

New models from the 2013 Suzuki range are available with free Genuine accessories from the middle of January, with some models benefitting from up to £800 worth of add-ons. Models such as the versatile V-Strom 650 ABS and the GSX1250FA long-distance tourer are available with £800 worth of free accessories, while the legendary GSX-R750 and award winning GSX-R600 and GSR750 are available with £600 worth of add-ons. The GSX650F and SV650S come with £300 worth of goodies, too, while low rate finance is available on all models over 400cc.

Suzuki GB's National Sales Manager, Jonathan Martin, said, "Following feedback from our dealer network, we are delighted to announce our latest offer, which sees the top models across the range available with a wide selection of free accessories. This gives customers more freedom and a level of customisation at no extra cost, and also allows them to tailor the bike to their own individual needs."

The offer runs from Monday 14 January to Sunday 31 March. For more information head to www.suzuki-gb.co.uk or visit your local Suzuki dealer.

Low rate finance for the Monster Range

no-spam@bikechatter.net (Leigh Godson) — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 13:43:23 +0000

2013 marks a significant landmark for the iconic Ducati Monster as it celebrates its 20th year of production. In that period Ducati has sold over 250,000 worldwide and to celebrate the anniversary of this legendary motorcycle Ducati UK are offering low rate finance options throughout the Monster range. Customers purchasing and registering a Monster 696, 796 and 1100 Evo including anniversary editions will have a range of low rate options available to them. Deposits can be as little as 10% with an APR of 4.5% or with a 50% deposit the APR will be as low as 2.5%.

To illustrate, with a deposit of a 26% and a 3.3% APR, payments over 36 months on a Monster 696+ can be financed from as little as £149 per month whereas those looking for a bigger engine anniversary edition can expect payments of £179 per month with a 25% deposit and an APR of 3.3% over the same time period.

The Monster was released to the market in 1993 and has become a sales sensation over two decades and spurned a whole new generation of naked bikes. Over the last 20 years the Monster has seen many updates and changes, but it has never lost its unique design and style and that early styling is the inspiration for the new 20th anniversary editions. The 20th Anniversary editions of the Monster 696, 796 and 1100EVO are dressed in special celebratory colour schemes and revised colour finishes for frames, brake callipers, master-cylinders and key chassis components in addition to many other details including design refinements applied to mirrors and seat covering. Although taking a bow to the Monster’s aesthetic heritage, the anniversary editions feature Ducati’s latest technology such as ABS, whilst the 1100 Evo includes the Ducati Safety Pack (DSP) consisting of ABS and 4-level Ducati Traction Control (DTC).

The Monster low rate promotion runs from now until the 30th April and is available through official franchised Ducati dealers and Ducati Finance.

Finance is available subject to status, to UK residents aged 18 years or over. Indemnities may be required. Conditions may apply depending on credit score status. Please contact your local Ducati dealer for further details. Subject to Terms and Conditions

This finance offer is only available through Ducati Finance, provided by Black Horse Ltd, St William House, Tresillian Terrace, Cardiff, CF10 5BH.

Get On gives you a free taster on two wheels at Motorcycle Live

no-spam@bikechatter.net (Leigh Godson) — Fri, 12 Oct 2012 10:21:52 +0000

At Motorcycle Live 2012, the motorcycle industry’s Get On campaign will once again be offering FREE two-wheel taster sessions to novice and born-again bikers. For visitors with no experience at all – or even those who have spent some time away and want to get back into biking – the Get On arena should be the first port of call. Occupying a secure and private area in hall 4, Get On will be offering riders over the age of 16 the chance to take part in a 20-minute taster session with a qualified instructor. Visitors can choose from a range of scooters and motorcycles provided by supporting manufacturers and all safety equipment will be provided.

It’s the best way to discover that life really is better on two wheels, but don’t take our word for it, here’s what visitors to the 2011 show had to say…

“I visited the show last year with my son Scott and he had a go with Get On. He’s since completed his CBT so it worked as a great introduction for him!” – Colin Waite, 50, Nuneaton

“I first learned about Get On at Motorcycle Live and did a free session before taking my CBT. It was a brilliant way to see if I would enjoy riding without having to spend any money.” – Jillie Johnston, 22, Portsmouth

“I enjoyed Get On as I got a taste of what to do on two wheels. I’m now saving up to go for my full licence.” – Joanna Goodwon, 21, Flitwick

“My wife loved it! She has passed her test as a result and now rides a 950cc Yamaha.” – Paul Andrews, 51, Hereford

“It was my first taste of biking and a great way to see if you really want to pursue a life on two wheels.” – Trevor Hall, 35, Mottram in Longdendale

The Get On arena is always a popular attraction at Motorcycle Live and while walk-up appointments will be available if you get there early, you can also pre-book a free motorcycle ride via the Get On website. Visit www.geton.co.uk/content/whats-it-all-about and enter your name and postcode. The website also provides lots of useful information on learning to ride. For more information on the Get On experience at Motorcycle Live click here.

Get On is just one of the exciting live features at this year’s show. The all-inclusive Motorcycle Live ticket gives FREE access to five exhibition halls crammed with all the latest bikes, clothing and accessories and six opportunities to ride a bike**, plus non-stop entertainment from some of the biggest names in biking on the Blackhorse Stage in the British Eurosport Entertainment Zone. Also featuring the BSH/Streetfighters Custom Xtreme Zone, the Yamaha Escape Zone, the Classic Zone in association with Coventry Transport Museum and FREE entry into the Ramp’d Up Freestyle Motocross Arena**.

Advance tickets for Motorcycle Live 2012 cost just £16 per adult, £10 for seniors and £6 per child*. To book your tickets, call 0844 581 2345 or visit www.motorcyclelive.co.uk

For real-time news and updates:
Visit www.facebook.com/motorcyclelive
Follow @motorcyclelive on Twitter

MV Agusta F3 and Brutale get some trick bits

no-spam@bikechatter.net (Leigh Godson) — Fri, 12 Oct 2012 10:12:59 +0000

The latest motorcycles born in MV Agusta have also been subject to attention of MV Agusta Corse, proposing a new line-up of accessories and special parts dedicated to the new middle class capacity models Brutale 675 and F3 675, already available throughout the MV Agusta dealer network. The level of products is very wide: ranging from anti-theft devices to travel bags, from motorcycle covers to sports exhaust systems, from components made in carbon fibre to a long series of useful accessories including an adjustable license plate holder, seats, xenon headlamp kits and a full series of ergal parts, like crankcase and clutch cover protectors, or the engine oil cap.

For racing enthusiasts, specific parts have been created to be used on circuits, like the air filter which guarantees improved power delivery, adjustable foot pegs, the electronic gear switch EAS, steering damper, the shock absorber and Öhlins forks, together with the titanium exhaust manifold for high performance without catalyzer.

To modify and personalize the Brutale 675 and F3 675, making an already elite product even more exclusive and personal, there’s nothing like letting oneself be tempted by the numerous accessories and MV Agusta Corse special parts. All the products have undergone severe testing, which guarantee quality and reliability.

For further information: www.mvagusta.it

Metzeler Tourance for street enduro and adventure touring bikes

no-spam@bikechatter.net (Leigh Godson) — Fri, 12 Oct 2012 10:10:10 +0000

Metzeler has been a BMW development partner for the GS family since 1980 with street enduro products and since 1999 with the Tourance™ family of products. The new Tourance™ Next is the third generation of the Tourance range and was specifically designed for latest generation street enduro and adventure touring bikes. The new sizes of the Tourance™ Next as original equipment on the BMW R 1200 GS will be the 120/70 R19 M/C and the 170/60 R17 M/C and they were developed directly in cooperation with the Bavarian manufacturer.

Tourance™ Next sets the new standard for the segment where grip on wet roads is concerned as well as in terms of safety, thanks to the new compounds developed for the front and rear which work in synergy with new grooves arranged optimally on the tread.

This tyre can therefore guarantee excellent grip in the wet, conveying a sensation of total safety to the rider in any condition, even when the asphalt is dirty and slippery.

The structure and profiles of the new Tourance™ Next were specifically designed for large new concept enduro bikes with particular attention to guaranteeing excellent stability even at high speeds and with the bike loaded down with top box and passenger.

In fact, the profiles were designed to absorb bumps in the asphalt in order to provide greater vehicle stability and for optimal interaction with the ABS and braking system.

The particularly resistant structure of the carcass creates a rigidity which translates into greater and easier handling of the bike.

The combination and interaction of the new tread and latest generation compounds result in a significant improvement compared to its predecessors in the Tourance™ family in terms of mileage thanks to better and more even tread wear.

The new Tourance™ Next will be available from the beginning of 2013 in 120/70 R 19 MC 60V and 170/60 R17 72V as original equipment on the latest addition to the BMW family, as well as in 120/70 ZR 17 M/C 58W, 110/80 R 19 M/C 59V and 90/90 - 21 M/C 54V for the front and 140/80 R 17 M/C 69V, 150/70 R 17 M/C 69V, 160/60 ZR 17 M/C 69W, 180/55 ZR 17 M/C 73W and 190/55 ZR 17 M/C 75W for the rear.

For more information see www.metzeler.co.uk and remember our new Facebook site- for all your news and views at www.facebook.com/metzeleruk