bmw motorcycle owners club - bmwtcnsw.org.au
TRANSCRIPT
Page 1
Special Points of Interest:
Page 1 ‘Bits and Pieces”
Page 10 & 11 trip photos
BMW MOTORCYCLE OWNERS CLUB (GOLD COAST) INC
Committee:
President Glen Galloway
Mob: 0408 984 953
Vice President Steve Bryant
B.H. 5534 3444
A.H. Mob: 0411 201 646
m.au
Secretary Lyn Dyne
Tel/Fax: H. 5598 7261
Mob: 0408 453 877
Treasurer Craig Threlfall
Mob: 0408 753 518
Business Manager/BMWCA Dele-
gate Ken Dyne
Tel/Fax: H. 5598 7261
Mob: 0419 641 364
Web Master/Newsletter Editor Martin Bell
Tel: H. 5575 9780
Life Members Fred Davies Ken Dyne Lyn Dyne www.bmwmocb.asn.au
March 2012
Bike Trike and Hot Rod Show
Being held by Vietnam Veterans Motor-
cycle Club Queensland Chapter at their
clubhouse, 132 Meakin Road, Kingston
on Saturday 10th March 2012.
See: www.qldvvmc.com.au or Ph. (07)
3804 3242
A Penney for your Dreams Charity
Ride Event
Being held on Saturday 17th March this
event is open to all motorcycle enthusiasts
and members of the community.
Assemble at Gold Coast Ducati, 15 Hill-
don Court, Nerang at 9am for 10am de-
parture. The ride through the hinterland
will finish at midday at the Historic Riv-
Merchandise
Club Polo Shirts (Blue with white
trim) $ 30.00
Club Caps (Black) $15
Contact Merchandise Officer: Rose
Proctor 5530 6727
Wanted:-
Left-hand BMW pannier for
R1200ST
Contact Darryl 0409 287 156
One front mudguard wanted for a
1981 to 1985 R100.
Contact Brian 0407 976 568 or
e-mail: [email protected] (Brian is a member of the BMW Owners
Club of S.A.)
Small metal lathe and tools.
Contact Bernie: 5590 5399
Bits & Pieces
May long weekend
This year the dates are 5/6th & 7th May
so some of us will be making the most of
the three day break to spend some time at
Coffs Harbour staying at Aanuka Resort,
a short distance north of town. We will
be leaving on Friday 4th May for a 3 night
stay returning home on the Monday. It is
a great resort adjacent to Diggers Beach,
with security parking, swimming pools,
tennis courts, mini golf, gym, etc.
Four units have been booked at a special
rate and deposits paid. [So far there are
five couples committed so there is a va-
cancy for three more couples]. The units
are self-contained with two bedrooms/
two bathrooms and very comfortable.
The special deal is for a limited time only
and needs to be paid beforehand. With
two couples sharing it works out at
$255.00 per night for 2 nights, the 3rd
night is free (i.e. $255 per couple for 3
nights). Breakfast is extra but BYO is an
option.
Christmas in July
This year the event will take place at
Boonah on 21st July.
There is a special deal for accommoda-
tion and menu at the Boonah Valley Mo-
tel. A fee of $198 includes four star ac-
commodation, 2 course dinner (for 2) and
continental breakfast (for 2) - cooked
b‟fast add $5/head.
Further details to follow.
The usual raffle of BMW Merchandise
will be held with proceeds to go to a local
charity.
Page 2
BMW MOTORCYCLE OWNER S CLUB
ermill at Mount Nathan where there will be a sausage siz-
zle,live entertainment and a charity auction. All monies raised
will go to the Starlight Children‟s Foundation.
Contact: David 0438 918 069
Website: http://penneyforyourdreams.yolasite.com
Vintage, Classic & Historic Motorcycle Racing
The 7th annual QBE Barry Sheene Festival of Speed will be
held on 23-25th March at Eastern Creek International Race-
way. See: www.barrysheene.com.au
RALLY INDOCHINA Vietnam – Laos – Cambodia
Dates: April 9-21, 2012
Route: Ho Chi Minh Trail, starting in Hanoi, Vietnam – sup-
porting Vietnamese children in crisis.
Participants will ride fully restored Soviet-era 650cc Ural
motorcycles. For more info visit:
www.rallyindochina.com e-mail:
Queensland Auto Spectacular
The Shannons QueenslandAUTOSPECTACULAR (which
replaces the Cleveland Autospectacular) is being held at Wil-
lowbank Raceway on Sunday, 15th April 2012.
The Willowbank grounds offer a much larger area for car and
bike displays, a swap meet, trade stalls, rocker cover racing
and food stalls as well as the opportunity to run your street
registered car or bike down the famous Willowbank ¼ mile
drag strip. Club sites can be pre-booked by 26th March so that
adequate space can be allocated.
Opening times: Swappers 6.00am, General Public 7.00am, Judging Commences
9.00am, Presentation of Trophies 2.00pm. Entry $10 per person
See: www.queenslandautospectacular.com.au
or phone: 0403 960 584
Horizons Unlimited
This Travellers Meeting is being held at Dayboro on 8-10th
June. Contact Shane - W. (07) 3284 1442 or Mob: 0427 117
214 See: www.HorizonsUnlimited.com/meetings/
Australia2012
Pre-Registration is suggested to guarantee entry.
Serious travellers and would-be travellers ONLY please.
Postie Bike Challenge
Being held in Western Australia from 1st – 10th September
2012 on Honda CT110 bikes. Ph. +61 7 3264 7727
www.postiebikechallenge.org
Snake Eyes Dice Run
Being held by Patriots Australia – Wide Bay Chapter at
Bundaberg on 6th May. All proceeds going to the Salvation
Army – Defence Services – Red Shield Appeal. For further
info contact the Secretary, Graham:
Penalties for speeding:
• Less than 13 km/h over the speed limit $133 + 1 demerit
point.
• 13-20 km/h over the speed limit $200 + 3 demerit points
• 21-30 km/h over the speed limit $333 + 4 demerit points
• 31-40 km/h over the speed limit $466 + 6 demerit points
• More than 40 km/h over the speed limit $933 + 8 demerit
points and six-month licence suspension.
• People caught doing more than 20 km/h over the speed
limit twice in a 12-month period will be hit with double
demerit point.
SMART motorcycle training dates & levels for 2012-
SMART offers five levels of „road skills‟ based training for
Licensed riders:
March 17 Level 1 July 7 Level 2
March 18 Level 2 July 8 Level 1
July 21 Level 1
April 14 Level 2 July 22 Level 2
April 15 Level 1
April 21 Level 2a Masterclass Aug 4 Level 2a M‟class
April 22 Level 3 Masterclass Aug 5 Level 3 M‟class
Aug 18 Level 1
May 19 Level 2 Aug 19 Level 2
May 20 Level 2a Masterclass
May 26 Level 3 Masterclass Sept 8 Level Transition
May 27 Level 1 Sept 9 Level 3 M‟class
June 2 Level 2
June 3 Level 2a Masterclass
Page 3
BMW MOTORCYCLE OWNER S CLUB
June 23 Level Transition
June 24 Level 3 Masterclass
• Transition level requiring participants to have had at least six
months of regular riding on an RE licence.
• Level 1 requiring participants to have had at least one year of
regular riding on an RE or R licence.
• Level 2 requiring participants to have had at least five years
regular riding on an RE or R licence.
• Level 2a Masterclass requires participants to have completed
Level 2 prior to entry into Level 2a Masterclass.
• Level 3 Masterclass requires participants to have completed
Level 2a Masterclass prior to entry into Level 3 Masterclass.
To book for a SMART instructed training ride you are required to
have an RE or R licence and be riding a Motorcycle / Scooter of
250cc or above.
The Gold Coast City Council SMART program is supported by the
Queensland Police Service and the Department of Transport.
For further info contact: [email protected]
or Ph. 5667 3624
Car thefts
The Annual Statistical Review 2010-2011 tabled in State Par-
liament recently by the Queensland Police Service showed
9,776 cars were stolen during 2010/11, a 7% increase in the
number of car thefts from 2009/10 (8,890). The Review also
revealed that there was a 14% increase in the number of the
reported theft of items from vehicles –
26,192 in 2009/10 to 30,526 in 2010/11.
This is despite the fact that advances in car locks and techno-
logical improvements in engine immobilisers, GPS technol-
ogy, and alarm systems have all made modern vehicles par-
ticularly hard to steal. The preferred target for thieves are ear-
lier model cars which have very little if any barriers to theft.
Pain at the pump
RACQ‟s Annual Fuel Price Report confirms that Queensland-
ers are paying more for fuel than ever before. There was a
massive 14.8 cents per litre increase in the average price of
unleaded (ULP) in 2011. Diesel users forked out an extra 18.6
cents per litre. Reasons given for the third consecutive year
price rises are political unrest in oil producing countries and
the Japanese tsunami which caused oil prices to skyrocket. It
is to be noted that the more independent fuel retailers there are
in a region, the more competition there is for your business.
Motorcycle Green Slips Slashed -
For our members south of the border:
As a result of the NSW Government listening to the commu-
nity and worked with insurers, it has reached an outcome that
will better meet the needs of motorcyclists in that state. The
Minister for Finance and Services has announced that the av-
erage Compulsory Third Party (CTP) or Green Slip price for
motorcycles will fall by up to 19% as from 1st January 2012.
Average best price for motorbike CTP across the seven insurers:
See the MAA website: http://www.greenslips.nsw.gov.au
Ulysses
Stephen Dearnley, the founding member of the Ulysses Club,
fondly referred to as “Old Number 1” passed away on 11th
February aged 89 years. His continued interest in the club and
involvement in and love of motorcycling has been an inspira-
tion to a generation.
Poker Run
The 2012 Rebel FM Pigs Arse Poker Run is being held on
Easter Saturday 7th April at Apple Tree Creek Hotel.
$10 per Hand Entry – Lots of Big Cash Prizes. Sign on from
9am – Run leaves 11.00am sharp. Hot Food – Cold Drinks –
Free Camping Available. Ph. Flame 0414 331 653
See: www.myspace.com/consolidatedbikers
Used Vehicle Check
When buying a used car, motorcycle or trailer it is advisable to
check that it is not encumbered. The old system was to check
with the Register of Encumbered Vehicles (REVS) or vehicle
information check (Vcheck) to see whether a vehicle has a
security interest over it.
As from 30th January it will be necessary to refer to the new
national Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR). Vehi-
cles can be searched by serial number, which is the vehicle
identification number (VIN) or chassis number.
(When purchasing a vehicle that is to be used as security on a
loan, the financier will complete a check of this register for
clear title and then register the vehicle to ensure that it can‟t be
used as security on any other loan).
For more info visit: www.ppsr.gov.au or call 1300 007 777
Super car champion Craig Lowndes and other celebrities are
taking to two wheels to help RSPCA Queensland. They‟ve
enthusiastically agreed to take part in the first ever “Ruff
Rider 500”, a 500 km charity motorcycle ride, being held on
Sunday 10th June. The event will raise vital funds to help
build the new children‟s Humane Education Centre at the
Class Change ($) Change (%)
2012 Price
225cc -$35.00 -19.1%
$157.00
226 to 725cc -$71.00 -17.4%
$336.00
726 to 1125cc -$84.00 -14.1%
$513.00
1126 to 1325 +$29.00 + 3.8%
$802.00
1326cc+ -$91.00 -13.2%
$596.00
RSPCA Charity Ride
Calling All Bikers – Join the Ruff Riders 500
Page 4
Page 4 BMW MOTORCYCLE OWNER S CLUB
RSPCA‟s Animal Care Campus at Wacol.
The ride will leave from the new Animal Care Campus at Wacol at
7.00am and then travel up through the Brisbane Valley to Kilcoy, on
to Maleny and across to the RSPCA shelter at Noosa. The ride will
finish back at Wacol at approximately 4.00pm. All refreshments and
lunch will be provided on the day and all riders have a chance to win
some fantastic prizes.
The event will raise vital funds to help build the RSPCA‟s new $1
million Education Centre for children at the new Animal Care Centre
at Wacol.
Register online: www.ruffriders.com.au – Cost $80 per bike (Rider
& Pillion) + all riders will receive a commemorative ride shirt and
cap.
E-mail enquiries: [email protected] Ph. (07) 3426 9943
Ethanol-blended fuel (E10)
Following on from an announcement in January by a major
fuel retailer (BP) that it would be replacing regular unleaded
fuel (ULP) in favour of E10, motoring organisation RACQ has
suggested that motorists check with the Federal Chamber of
Automotive Industries website (www.fcai.com.au) which
listed cars and motorcycles for which E10 was suitable. The
report indicated that BP intended replacing ULP with E10 – a
mix of 10 percent ethanol and 90 percent ULP – at 48 of its
sites. An alternative is premium ULP at a greater cost.
Motorcycle Road Safety – 1955 style
Interesting videos on this site include racing history and other
bike related clips including the 1967 Senior TT (Hailwood v
Ago) plus thrills and spills.
See: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gUxRmDHeE44
MotoTrip Tours & Rental
Darko Novosel from Croatia has started a new travel agency
in Croatia, Europe specialising in motorcycle tours and rental.
MotoTrip is the first and only motorcycle guided tour and
rental based travel agency in Croatia and is the Official Travel
Partner of BMW Motorrad using only BMW models. Check
the website: www.mototrip.hr or
www.facebook.com/mototrip.tours
Fewer road fatalities
According to the latest Crash Data released by the Federal
Government, the national annual motorcycle rider toll has
fallen below 200 for the first time in seven years. For the
twelve months to the end of November 2011, there were 192
motorcycle-related fatalities compared to 228 for the previous
twelve month period.
New South Wales has seen the largest decline, down 11 whilst
Queensland had fallen by 7 and Victoria by 6.
Celebrating its 35th Anniversary
The Beaudesert & District Restored Auto Club has organised a
two day tour on 17th & 18th March to celebrate this anniversary
and is planning for entries of over one hundred historic cars
and motorcycles. The event will be based at the Beaudesert
Show Grounds.
For more info: Ph (07) 5544 9230
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://carclubs.shannons.com.au/beaudesertdrac
Some motorcycle related stuff:
Have a look at: http://www.ketchum.org/moto.html
There are a number of articles relating to motorcycle designs,
engine illustrations, riding tips plus comments and pictures of
a number of BMW R Series.
Did you know that combining motorcycles, cars and lorries,
there are 225 million vehicles in China!
Page 5
Page 5 BMW MOTORCYCLE OWNER S CLUB
BMW NEWS
BMW GS Safari
BMW Australia has opened registrations for the 2012 BMW
TS Safari. The event will start from Mt Panorama in Bathurst
on Sunday 13th May and riders will cover some of the best
riding roads in NSW before arriving on the Sunshine Coast in
southern QLD on Friday 18th May.
To register for the event go to www.bmwsafari.com to com-
plete the online registration form. Pillion riders are most wel-
come on the TS Safari.
Cost of registration is $550 per rider or $1,050 for rider and
pillion. Included in the entry fee is welcome and farewell
functions, BMW technical support including BMW Safari
Tyre support service, daily route sheets (plus marked route),
TS Safari T shirt and evening briefings for the upcoming days
ride.
Once registered on the BMW Safari site regular emails will be
sent to riders with all the info needed to make the Safari an
enjoyable experience.
Accommodation bookings will be released at the end of Feb-
ruary and riders will have the choice of quality levels between
3 and 5 star, depending on their taste and budget.
New Head of Design for BMW Motorrad
30.01.2012 Munich. Edgar Heinrich (53) will be taking over
the BMW Group‟s BMW Motorrad Design Studio as of July
1st 2012. He succeeds David Robb. After completing his uni-
versity degree in design, Edgar Heinrich started his career as a
motorcycle designer with BMW back in 1986. Within the
BMW Group‟s BMW Motorrad Design Studio he was Head of
Vehicle Design Motorcycles under the overall direction of
David Robb from 2007 to 2009.
In July 2009 his career took him to India. As Vice President
Product Design with the Indian vehicle manufacturer Bajaj
Auto LTD he currently heads up the stying and model studio,
responsible for brand definition and brand strategies for two-
wheel and four-wheel design.
During his time with BMW Motorrad, Edgar Heinrich was
responsible for such vehicles as the first 4-valve boxer models
R1100RS and RT, the K1200S and R, the HP Megamoto and
the victorious Paris-Dakar racing machines.
Under his direction, the motorcycle design team created the
S1000RR, the F800/650 series, the G450X and also the BMW
Custom Concept study. Heinrich was even involved at the
start of the design development of the 6-cylinder touring bikes
and the new maxi-scooters.
Motorcycles take up a large part of his leisure time, too. His
passion include modifying sports bikes, restoring and collect-
ing vintage models and in particular riding motorcycles him-
self – both on and off the road.
David Robb (56), the previous head of the BMW Group Mo-
torcycle Design Studio, has left the company. He was in
charge of BMW Motorrad design for 18 years. Under his
leadership, the design team elaborated the development of the
BMW Motorrad product portfolio from three to a current total
of six model lines, as well as creating the extensive product
range of BMW Motorrad rider equipment and motorcycle ac-
cessories.
The first motorcycle designed under David Robb‟s direction
was the BMW K1200RS. This was followed by such models
as the first BMW cruiser R1200C, the innovative K series with
transversely mounted 4-cylinder engine, the F series with 2-
cylinder parallel twin and the most successful BMW motorcy-
cle of all time, the travel endure R1200GS. The design con-
cept of the latter is regarded to this day as the benchmark in
the category of big enduro bikes.
Recently there were additional highlights such as the BMW
motorcycles with in-line 6-cylinder engine, the K1600GT/
GTL, and the BMW superbike S1000RR. The first BMW
maxi-scooters C600 Sport and C650 GT only recently saw
their premiere in autumn 2011.
The Senior Vice President of BMW Group Design thanked
David Robb for his many years of successful work and wished
him all the very best for the future.
International Council
There will be a Working Meeting of the Council Board of the
International Council in Melbourne from 8th to 15th March
2012, whilst the BMWCA Annual Meeting will take place on
29/30th April 2012.
BMW Group makes successful start to new year
Best January ever for the BMW brand
The BMW Group increased its sales significantly in January.
A total of 112,163 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brand vehi-
cles were delivered to customers (prev.yr. 105,193) – an in-
crease of 6.6%.
The BMW brand reported the strongest January in its history.
Sales climbed 5.9% to 96,183 (prev. yr. 90,858) vehicles.
The BMW Group made strong gains in a number of markets,
including North America and virtually all of the Asian markets
as well as reporting strong growth in a number of European
markets (Italy, France, Switzerland, Netherlands and Austria).
BMW Motorrad sales 11.1% higher
BMW Motorrad also achieved a substantial increase in sales in
January. Deliveries climbed 11.1% to reach a total of 5,237
(prev. yr. 4,714) motorcycles. Husqvarna delivered 544 (prev.
yr. 362/+50.3%) motorcycles to customers.
BMW Clubs Australia Car Nationals 2013
Some details have been announced for this event hosted by the
Car Clubs of Victoria. In 2013 the Nationals will be held on
Phillip Island at the Silverwater Resort, San Remo over the
Easter weekend, 6th – 9th April. Below is a summary of what
has been planned to date:
Page 6
Friday Night Meet and Greet Cocktail Party around the pool at
Silverwater Resort.
Saturday Celebration of Excellence on the lawns overlooking
the water at Silverwater Resort.
Saturday night Dinner at the Nobbies Function Centre followed
by viewing of the Penguin Parade.
Sunday Motorsport Sprint Day at Phillip Island Grand Prix Cir-
cuit.
Sunday Touring Event through the rolling hills of South Gipp-
sland with lunch at either Archies on the Creek or at Phillip
Island Grand Prix Circuit.
Sunday option for the Touring Event participants is to have
some “Pace Car Laps” around Phillip Island Grand Prix
Circuit.
Sunday night Presentation Dinner to be held in the Churchill/
Flinders room at the Silverwater Resort.
Monday Stayer‟s Lunch at a car museum on the Mornington
Peninsular.
This event is held every second year in the eastern states.
Members of all clubs (including motorcycle clubs) are invited
to attend this BMWCA event.
BMW Classic
Munich. On 1st February 2012, BMW Classic Parts Supply
launched its new online shop. Now customers can order spare
parts for their BMW classics speedily, easily and from the
comfort of their home. Customers can visit the online shop at
http://shop.bmw-classic.de search for appropriate spare parts
for their classic vehicles and order them online. Information is
also provided on the suitability of parts for various model
ranges. Note: [This service is currently available for customers
in Germany. Starting in April 2012 this service will be ex-
panded to further European markets.]
The range of parts in the new online shop currently totals
some 35,000 items for classic BMW cars and motorcycles
dating from 1960 to around 1990. Large, heavy spare parts,
dangerous goods and materials, electronic components and
yard goods are excluded from the range.
The BMW Classic Parts Supply online shop was presented for
the first time at the Bremen Exhibition Centre during the Bre-
men Classic Motorshow from 3-5 February 2012.
The online shop can be accessed on the BMW Classic website
at www.bmw-classic.de and www.bmw-classic.com
Royal Duties
During the Queen‟s visit on 26th October 2011 when she
opened the new RCH building in Melbourne, she was escorted
by the Victorian Police who were mounted on BMWs –
R1200RTP. And in Melbourne, nearly fifty years ago in
1963, the Queen was escorted by the Police on their BMWs –
R69 when she opened the Royal Children‟s Hospital. Remem-
ber the TV series, Matlock Police? Actor Paul Cronin rode a
police BMW.
BMW Group opens largest showroom worldwide in Abu
Dhabi
The BMW Group has opened the world‟s largest showroom
for BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars and BMW mo-
torcycles in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi Motors, the
BMW Group‟s long-standing importer for the region, has in-
vested around AED 300 million (approx. 62 million euros) in
the new 35,000-square-metre showroom over its three-year
construction.
The import company Abu Dhabi Motors began its operations
in May 1986 with a small showroom and workshop in Umm
Al Nar employing 24 people. Over the years, it has grown to
become the leading BMW Group importer in the Middle East
by sales. It currently employs over 450 staff members at 10
different facilities across Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. The BMW
Group achieved a new sales record in the Middle East in 2011.
Six times a champion for BMW at the Business Car
Awards 2012
BMW UK has scooped six awards from one of the country‟s
leading fleet publications. BusinessCar magazine has hon-
oured BMW with the headline accolade of „Manufacturer of
the Year‟ for the fourth year in a row, in recognition of
BMW‟s diverse product portfolio and class-leading running
costs.
„Business Car of the Year‟ has been awarded to the new BMW
1 Series, and the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon has
been named „Green Car of the Year‟ for the second year in a
row. For the third year in a row both the BMW X5 and BMW
3 Series Saloon held onto their titles, having once again been
named „Large 4x4 of the Year‟ and „Upper Medium Car of the
Year‟ respectively. Topping the awards haul, the BMW 7 Se-
ries was also voted „Luxury Car of the Year‟.
First a MINI, then a bag
MINI presents a specially designed limited edition of Carmina
Campus bags that will be presented at an exclusive preview
event during Milan Fashion Week. A designer has used ele-
ments from prototypes of the new MINI Roadster combined
with discarded colour samples and other materials to create
fashion designer weekend and city bags made by Italian crafts-
men. In some styles the soft yet robust seat leather formed the
outer shell of the bag while the canvas from the soft-top was
often decorated by a mosaic of small metal plates coming
from the colour samples of the car body painting.
Carmina Campus, a label that specialises in making furniture,
jewellery and bags from re-used and up-cycled materials,
shows that where scrap material that is generally described as
waste, can become part of a high-quality fashion accessories.
‘BMW Classic live”
BMW Classic offers all official BMW Clubs the magazine
“BMW Classic Live” at a preferential price of 4.40 euro per
copy plus postal costs for their members. The new issue, a
special, highlights the six generations of the BMW 3 Series.
The first BMW 3 Series was presented in 1975. Over 12 mil-
lion people all over the world have opted for a BMW 3 Series.
There is a minimum order of 10 copies which can only be or-
dered by individual Clubs. (The BMW Clubs International
Office in Munich is unable to accept individual orders by club
members).
Customised BMWs
Page 7
Untitled Motorcycles is a two-man team who have taken a
series of battered, unloved BMW motorcycles and trans-
formed them into beautiful customised machines with orders
coming in from around the world. Their first BMW build was
a 1979 R80/7, followed by an R80/7 scrambler and an R80/7
street. To see more of Untitled Motorcycles‟ work see:
www.untitledmotorcycles.com
Dakar 2012
Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain achieved six podium
finishes whilst four out of the five riders reached the finish in
Lima. The team was consistently fast with two riders regularly
up front. The highlights were six podium finishes and one
stage victory. This debut result was encouraging for the team
and Husqvarna as the new bike completed the race without a
single technical failure.
Results: 1.Cyril Despres (FRA) KTM, 2.Marc Coma (SPA) KTM,
3.Helder Rodrigues (POR) Yamaha, 4.Jordi Viladoms (SPA) KTM,
5.Stefan Svitko (SVK) KTM, 11.Joan Barreda (SPA) Husqvarna
Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 19.ZeHelio(BRA) Husqvarna Rallye
Team by Speedbrain, 23.Jose Manuel Pellicer (SPA) Husqvarna
Rallye Team by Speedbrain, 26.Paulo Goncalves (POR) Husqvarna
Rallye Team by Speedbrain
For more info: http://racing.speedbrain.de
A little history
As in motoring, Grand Prix races were organized for motorcy-
cles. The first was the Grand Prix de France in 1904, won by
Laufranchi on a twin-cylinder V-engined model with a capac-
ity of 600cc. A special race track was built for that purpose in
Italy – the famous Monza. Britain had its track on the Isle of
Man, where no ban existed for races held on public roads. A
new type of sporting event originated in America and Austra-
lia, speedway racing, but these races became more popular
only in the 1920s.
The First World War caused stagnation in motoring and espe-
cially in the production of motorcycles. The difficult economic
situation in the post-war world, as well as the switch by large
arms-producing companies to peace production, resulted in the
fast development of small motorcycles and auxiliary engines
for bicycles. Despite this trend powerful motorcycles were
also produced, and many original ideas were introduced by
traditional producers. The first post-war exhibition at Olympia
in London showed a rapid development in motorcycle con-
struction. In Britain alone at that time 112 companies were
making motorcycles.
In the immediate post-war years motorcycles attained higher
reliability and a relatively good performance, but required
careful and skilled service, and were not comfortable enough.
France at that time was more dedicated to automobiles, and
most of the motorcycles on the market there were American-
made. But the French also gradually discovered the advan-
tages offered by motorcycles. Many manufacturers in France
started producing them, such as D.F.R., Dresch, L.M.P., Mo-
tobecane, Orial, Rovin and Supplexa. This development
reached its peak in 1930 when it stopped because of competi-
tion from cheap cars.
In Italy interest in motorcycles was aroused especially by
American and English machines, left over from the First
World War. Italian motorcycle-producing companies were
founded – Moto Guzzi, Garelli and others.
The German market was flooded with cheap home-made two-
stroke motorcycles made by the DKW company, and also by
traditional companies such as Wanderer and Opel.
In England the B.S.A. (British Small Arms) company became
the largest producer of motorcycles, manufacturing almost
30,000 in 1926. Other well-known companies included Ariel,
known for the production of four-cylinder engines, Rudge-
Whitworth, a pioneer of OHV (overhead valve) gear and ex-
changeable wheels, Royal Enfield and New Hudson.
In the United States Indian were the largest producers of mo-
torcycles in the world in the 1920s. The company had an ex-
cellent network for servicing. Its most exported model was the
Scout 600.
The fast development of the car industry after the Second
World War seemed to take away the popularity of motorcy-
cles. But another situation was developing. While at the begin-
ning of the 1950s about two million motorcycles were pro-
duced worldwide, by the 1980s production exceeded seven
million. Hundreds of smaller companies disappeared, and pro-
duction was concentrated with the largest companies. Of the
60 companies in West Germany just after the war only a few
remain today, and of the famous companies from the old days,
only * BMW survives. The largest producers of small-engine
motorcycles are Zundapp and Fichtel & Sachs. Production in
Britain almost stopped but was reviving in the early 1980s.
The Italian motorcycle industry is at present producing mo-
peds, scooters and small bikes made by Piaggio, Innocenti,
Garelli and Moto Guzzi. Larger motorcycles are produced by
Ducati and Morini and racing machines by Gilera and MV
Augusta. The Swedish Husqvarna company‟s machines have
gained many prizes in motocross events. After the collapse of
the majority of American companies (only Harley-Davidson
remained), the United States had to import motorcycles.
Page 8
Emphasis switched to eastern Asia, where Japan – a country
without any motorcycle tradition – became the greatest pro-
ducer in the world with its famous Honda, Yamahas, Suzukis
and Kawasakis. [Article copied from British Singles Motorcycle Club’s “Tappet Rat-
tle” with permission].
*BMW Group began operations as BMW Motoren Werke in
Munich, Germany in 1916. Originally an aircraft engine
manufacturer, in 1923 the company began manufacturing mo-
torcycles and in 1927 began production of motorcars.
Phillip Island SBK
For the opening round of the 2012 WSBK season at Phillip
Island on 24-26 February there will be an unprecedented six
BMW S1000RRs lining up and two riders will be Australian.
BMW Motorrad Motorsport will have Leon Haslam and
Marco Melandri who will be having his debut ride on the
BMW S1000RR. Riding for the BMW Motorrad Italia Gold-
Bet SBK Team are Ayrton Badovini and his new team-mate
Michel Fabrizio.
Alongside the BMW Motorrad teams will be the Aussies,
Mark Aitchison and David Johnson. Mark will be making his
S1000RR SBK debut at the Island on the Team Grillini BMW
machine. David, who has grabbed a wildcard entry after hav-
ing raced in Europe since 2005, will be riding the Rossair AFP
Racing Team BMW S1000RR.
There will also be other BMW RRs that will be lapping in the
local ASBK support races including defending Champion
Glenn Allerton on his new race machine.
2012 BMW S1000RR
New pricing has been announced for the new 2012 BMW
S1000RR at $22,290 which is the Manufacturer‟s Recom-
mended List Price and includes GST but excludes dealer
charges, stamp duty, statutory charges and on-road charges
which vary between dealers and States/Territories. Included as
standard are Race ABS, Dynamic Traction Control and Quick
Shift.
The second generation S1000RR has seen changes to suspen-
sion, steering head angle and swing arm pivot plus other subtle
improvements to increase steering accuracy and rider feed-
back. The torque curve has been optimised for improved ride
ability and new throttle action for even greater input and con-
trol. Changes to the tail section, asymmetric side panels and
aerodynamic winglets give the new “RR” a more aggressive
and sportier appearance.
Council News
Dear BMW Club Members,
In my first editorial for 2011, I wrote about the 30th anniversary of
the BMW Clubs International Council and the entrepreneurs who
founded it, and the plan for raising the visibility of the International
Council the Board had for 2011.
With the support of our friends at BMW Classic, we were able to
execute these plans. By having the Board meeting in Essen, Germany,
the Board was able to attend the Techno Classica in April and then
Ian and I were able to attend BMW Motorrad Days in Garmisch-
Partenkirchen, Germany and the BMW Clubs Europa Meeting in
Mayrhofen, Austria.
This culminated in the Council Meeting in September in Berlin,
where we visited the BMW Motorrad factory – first time for a lot of
us – followed by the celebratory dinner and having the opportunity to
meet and listen to Dirk Henning Strassl and Dr Horst Avenarius’s
recollection of the olden days. From attending these events we have
also learned that while the international BMW Classic and Type
Clubs have an excellent exhibition at Techno Classica, it can be
vastly improved at BMW Motorrad Days, where the clubs that were
present had to share with other exhibitors, club attendance wasn’t co
-ordinated to be in a central place, etc.
Following the favourable feedback from members at these events, the
Board then agreed that in 2012 we shall cement the initiative of in-
creasing and improving the visibility and profile at both these events
of the Council and its member clubs.
To achieve this goal, we requested BMW Classic to assist in improv-
ing the situation at BMW Motorrad Days, which is taking place from
6 to 8 July 2012 in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany. At the mo-
ment the idea for 2012 is to have for the first time an own home for
the BMW Clubs at this event. The organisers have agreed to provide
a space for the clubs in order to have a single point of focus for the
clubs – the final format is to be confirmed. All the umbrellas have
also been asked to consider attending – as their presence would be
required to achieve this.
Reminiscing during the old year about all of this reminded me of a
remark by Dr Horst Avenarius to Ian Branston at the 30th anniver-
sary dinner; Ian, who has been working on a project to research and
document some of the Council’s history, was quizzing Dr Avenarius
on some of the finer details of the past, and Dr Avenarius commented
that this must be done with caution – as what is documented will
become the history.
Quite a thought-provoking observation – specifically in this modern
age of media, where what is written in an instant on a blog or instant
message becomes published in seconds worldwide and is seen as
factual.
Writing our own history is such an important part of club life, as it
affirms our vision and goals. So to all those writers out there – please
keep writing, also for this newsletter, but please make sure it is done
accurately as you are creating our history!
David de Bruyn
Vice Chair Motorcycles
BMW Clubs International Council
BMW DTM
For those interested in car racing:
The latest challenge after an 18-year break from the German
DTM touring car championship, BMW is back and this time
with the Castrol EDGE BMW M3 DTM. Along with Castrol,
Aral the German fuels brand also sponsor the car.
The eleven race series commences in Germany in April 2012
and continues through to the 21st October 2012. Most of the
action will be held in Germany as well as a race each in Great
Britain, France and Spain.
BMW Motorrad –
WSBK – Phillip Island
Sunday 26th February 2012
Weather conditions: Overcast at noon, sunny afternoon
Temperature: Air: 31 – 34 0C, Track: 42 – 540C
Number of riders: 24 from 14 teams
Fastest lap Race 1: Max Biaggi (Aprilia Racing Team)
Fastest lap Race 2: Carlos Checa (Althea Racing)
Team BMW Motorrad Motorsport celebrated its best ever
Page 9
result in the FIM Superbike World Championship. Factory
rider Marco Melandri (ITA) finished second in the first race of
the 2012 season opener at Phillip Island. This was despite the
fact that Marco only started 13th on the grid after Saturday‟s
Superpole qualifying had to be cancelled, preventing the
chance to challenge for a better grid position. In race two he
came in sixth. This was the first race on the BMW S1000RR
for Marco.
Team-mate Leon Haslam (GBR) scored a 12th and a strong 5th
place only four days after an operation to insert two screws to
fix his fractured right tibia. Team BMW Motorrad Motorsport
collected 45 points at the weekend, more than ever before.
BMW Motorrad Italia GoldBet SBK Team‟s rider Michel
Fabrizio (ITA) came in sixth place in race one but was unable
to finish race two. Team-mate Ayrton Badovini (ITA) had to
retire in both heats. In the riders‟ championship, Marco lies in
second with Leon in eighth place.
Bernhard Gobmeier (BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director),
on behalf of the entire team, passed on his condolences to the
family and friends of Oscar McIntyre who lost his life in a
crash at the Island.
Club ride Sunday Feb 26th
Off we went from Cuchina Mia at 8:30 and down the M1 to
the Cabarita off ramp - approx 1 km towards Cabarita we took
a right into Watty Bishop Rd, left at the "T" with the compul-
sory stop into Round Mountain Rd - there was a little
gravel on the way but this road goes through some gorgeous
countryside and come out at the back of Murwillumbah. Left
at the "T" into Reserve Creek Road and we briefly entered an
industrial area, left on the bend to the Pistol Club Left at the
Pistol Club and on to Wardrop Valley Rd and you now have
some more spectacular country - slow going but allowed us to
smell the country side. We arrive at the north end of the
Burringbar range and so boys being boys .....
A stop at the Humble Pie and a great coffee. A good bye to Jo
who only had a morning pass, the boys are going to fill in his
application for a full day out :-)
At this stage I did say the road improved but maybe my mem-
ory has faded as it is "C" grade seal road - maybe I really
should get a job in sales. Mullumbimby is a town we rarely
stop at and today was no different. About 2 k's out there is a
turn to the left to Mycoum Rd (if you carry on you would get
to the Crystal Castle turnoff, the Yamba lads know this
way) ... 10 - 12k's later it's turn into Possum Shoot Road -
now some people with tasty houses live here...... veer right
later on.
The road narrows and the sounds of Deliverance are heard,
when Jim went off into the grass it was only the fear of the
"piggy" scene in that movie that motivated him to get back on
the road.... .... Martin and Marion flattened a Turtle - well it
was out of the water so maybe it was a Tortoise.... wow had
there been some rain out this way - one bridge was 20+ feet
above the water but had been under.
Martin arrived without his rego holder, the LT has some new
rattles. Ian behaved himself, I think he had the bike for the
ride!
We surfaced out just a tad west of Bungalow (Friday Hut road
joins the Bangalow Rd), through to Lennox and then Beeline.
The Shores Hotel had a band which killed conversation but
was Ok. Jim, now known as the "Chicken Schnitzel Stealing
Jim" accidentally (yeah!!) took someone else's meal.
On the M1 for home, we lost David and Daphne halfway back
as some bird splatter his visor...Jenny fell sound a sleep closer
to the coast and all I knew was "bang / bang / bang" as she
nodded off against me - what a life!
All in all, a never to be repeated ride but a great day out, well,
an excellent day out, good folks, great bikes.
Gordon and Jenny
See photos over page
Page 10
Page 11
Page 12
The BMW Motorcycle Owners Club (Gold Coast) Inc. is fortunate enough to have a num-ber of Sponsors who support us by advertising in our Club Newsletter.
Some of the regulars are :-
BALLINA MOTORCYCLES - STEVE Ph.(02) 6681 3000 Fax: (02) 6681 3399
E-mail: [email protected]
www.ballinamotorcycles.com.au
Currumbin Autobody Repairs 4 Leonard Parade, Currumbin
07 5534 3444
www.currumbinautobodyrepairs.com.au
Speak to Rohan (one of our members) of Clean Cut Tree Services should you need any trees trimming. Phone 0405 057 101
Edelweiss B & B 99 Anita Road, PO Box 78 Blackbutt Qld. 4306 2 self contained chalets in a quiet, relaxing bushsetting. Spa-cious and comfortable living and dining area, bedroom with en-suite bathroom, fully equipped kitchen, private balcony. Un-dercover parking and security gate.Your Swiss hosts, Jacob and Lucy, look forward to your visit. Phone 07 41 700 139 e-mail [email protected] www.edelweiss-bnb.com.au
Morgan & Wacker Motorcycle Training Centre. Contact : Ph. 3855 5959 Fax 3855 3022 http://www.mwmtc.com.au/ R.J's B.M.W. Contact : Ray Peake. Ph/Fax (07) 5543 5962 [email protected] Morgan & Wacker BMW. Contact : Bris. Phil or Gold Coast Chris. Ph. Bris. (07) 3252 5691 Gold Coast (07) 5591 4822 http://www.morganandwacker.com.au/ Caltex Byron Service Station. cnr Lawson & Butler Sts Contact : Warren or Dennise. Ph. (02) 6685 6345
Page 13
The views expressed herein are those of the writer or the contributors and do not necessarily reflect official Club policy.
Contributions should be addressed c/- the Secretary at the e-mail or fax addresses shown above. All other correspondence should be addressed to:
The Secretary P O Box 3000 MSC Villiers Drive CURRUMBIN WATERS 4223 Member of the International Council of BMW Clubs
Members meet for breakfast on the 1st Sunday of the month at Cucina Mia Café, cnr Somerset Dr & Gemvale Rd Mudgeeraba (Exit 82 on M1)
Next Meeting: March 4th 2012 Visitors always welcome
UPCOMING EVENTS: NOTE: Members meet on the 1st Sunday of the month from 8.30am at Cucina Mia Cafe, cnr Somerset Drive &
Gemvale Road, Mudgeeraba (Exit 82 on M1)
4th March 2012 Sunday – Breakfast meet at Cucina Mia Cafe
All welcome – bring along your wife, partner, family member or a friend.
1st April Sunday B‟fast @ Cucina Mia Cafe
25th March Day run – Craig
22nd April Day run – David
5/6/7th May Weekend @ Coffs Harbour (Aanuka Resort) – Ken & Lyn
Leave Friday 4th May for 3 nights stay – home Monday 7th. Details this issue.
9/10/11 June Restore & Ride Rally @ Sawtell for historic, classic, vintage m‟cycles – Leave Friday 8th, home Monday 11th.
21st July Christmas in July at the Boonah Valley Motel, Boonah Ipswich Rd. Boonah
(Accommodation + Dinner) – Marg & Craig See Flyer
26th August -
September Toowoomba run – Craig
21st October Weekend @ Bendemeer Hotel - Steve
OTHER EVENTS:
23-25th March The 7th annual Barry Sheene Festival of Speed will be held at the new 4.5 km Eastern Creek Raceway.
The event will take place on the new 4.5 km Eastern Creek Circuit. www.barrysheene.com.au
8-10th June Horizons Unlimited, Travellers Meeting at Dayboro, Qld.
See: www.HorizonsUnlimited.com/meetings/Australia2012