NEWS: Suzuki's 2015 clothing range now available

Suzuki's 2015 clothing range is now available to order online or in dealerships, with a host of new items added to the already popular collection which boasts a broad range of fashion and heritage lines, as well as team wear and merchandise for all styles and tastes.

Suzuki's 2015 range now available

Several new items have been added to the heritage collection, including Isle of Man TT hoodies and t-shirts, a retro-styled GSX-R t-shirt, Katana t-shirt, and a Hamamatsu t-shirt and hoodie.

New fashion lines added to the range include Suzuki 'spirited' and 'engineered for life' t-shirts, in a range of colours and for both men and women.

2015 team wear is available, which includes fleeces, polo shirts, jackets, beanies and caps in classic Suzuki blue and black, while yellow motocross team wear is also available. The popular merchandise range continues to be available and benefits from a host of new additions.

Suzuki GB's Merchandise Co-ordinator, Faye Ball, said, "We're really pleased with the new designs and are excited to add them to the range. The new items offer even more choice for customers, and range from the casual tee or hoody to the smarter polo and jacket. We have bolstered our heritage lines, one of our most popular ranges which strikes a chord with many customers. But where we think we score highly is with the variety and style of our range, which takes design and style cues from more popular high street fashion."

The new clothing range is available now and can be ordered online at www.suzuki-gb.co.uk or through your nearest authorised Suzuki dealership.

Items can also be purchased from Suzuki's very own eBay store, at http://stores.ebay.co.uk/suzuki-bikes-uk-official

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Event: Norway Tour for Indian Motorcycle Owners

Join Indian Motorcycle owners on a seven-day tour through Norway in June 2015

• Spaces available on the Norwegian Indian Motorcycle Dealer Ride
• Seven days covering 3,600km on the best roads in Norway
• Social events at a different bike dealership on each night of the ride

Indian Motorcycle Owners Trip to Norway

Here’s an opportunity to join like-minded Indian Motorcycle owners on a week-long ride of the best roads in Norway, visiting bike dealers along the way.

Taking place in June (Saturday 14 to Sunday 22 June), the ride will start in Lyngdal in the south and then circle anti-clockwise taking in all of Norway’s most interesting roads and tourist attractions, finishing back in Lyngdal for a celebratory party.

The route is:

Lyngdal – Skien – Oslo/Lillehammer – Verdal – Molde – Geiranger – Bergen – Lyngdal
It’s a challenging ride; 3,600km in total with an average of 10 hours in the saddle each day.

Although it will be summer, temperatures can drop to freezing in the mountains, so the advice to all is ‘come prepared’.

Participants might also want to prepare for the unique set of events being put on each evening, such a BBQs on arrival, boat trips and cultural excursions.
Indian Motorcycle dealerships at each night stop have been briefed to give the participants a memorable night, in the true spirit of both American and Norwegian hospitality.

The idea for the ride came from three members of the Norwegian Indian Motorcycle club; Kjell Ingebretsen, Oddbjorn Fjelde and Petter Kristoffersen (pictured).
Petter Kristoffersen says they are really looking forward to more Indian Motorcycle owners joining the ride:

“Norway is very beautiful, especially in June,” he explains. “At the end of this particular week in June, the nights aren’t dark because the sun doesn’t set.”
Describing why Indian Motorcycle riders in the EMEA region should join in, he says: “There are countless sweeping turns as well as memorable views of nature; steep mountains above you and crystal-clear water below.

“Little traffic and great roads make this motorcycle tour through Norway so special. And to bring together riders that share the same passion for the Indian Motorcycle brand on these fantastic roads for a fantastic event will make a memory for life,” Petter adds.
Spaces are available only for owners of an Indian Motorcycle.

The fee to participate is €50 and this includes an attendee pack.

Participants will have to pay the rest of the cost like hotels, fuel and food themselves. There will, however, be some free food and entertainment on some of the dealer stops.
The event will start with a welcome reception at the Rosfjord Strandhotel in Lynghal on the Saturday evening. The ride then begins on Sunday morning from the Twin Thunder dealership in Lyngdal.

It then follows a circular route anti-clockwise through Norway with stops at dealerships in Skien, Lillehammer, across the Ringbu mountain to Verdal, along the Atlantic Road to Molde, then on the famous route ‘666’ through the Trollstigen, a spiralling mountain road.
The Trollstigen Mountain Road has a steep incline of nine percent and consists of 11 hairpin bends. Encircling the road are lofty mountains with names such as Kongen (the King), Dronningen (the Queen) and Bispen (the Bishop).

Next is a day riding through the famous Norwegian fjords and on to Bergen for a Friday night meal in Bryggen, which is on the world heritage list.

The ride ends on a Saturday night with a celebratory party in the Twin Thunder dealership’s clubhouse.

To attend Indian Motorcycle owners must pre-register online at:
http://www.indianmotorcycle.no/the-norwegian-dealer-ride/

Don’t forget to select your T-Shirt size.

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JOBS:MERLIN, WE’RE RECRUITING!

MERLIN, WE’RE RECRUITING!

CONTACT DETAILS: , INFO@MERLINBIKEGEAR.COM , +44 (0)1543 270299

Merlin is rapidly establishing itself as the ‘go to’ brand for well designed, content rich motorcycle clothing.

Merlin Bike Gear- recruiting

We have recently moved to Chasewater Heaths to accommodate the growing business. Increasing requests for product by dealers requires that we search for additional area sales managers to provide improved support for the dealer network.
AREA SALES MANAGERS- OTE £50,000

This role concentrates on dealer development, selling in of our regular collection programme, the ongoing merchandising within dealers and supporting the dealers. We are seeking to recruit in three new regions:

002- East of England, covering Leicestershire, East Anglia and Essex

003- London and the South East

006- Scotland and Ireland

EXPORT MANAGER- OTE £70,000

This is a new role within Merlin and is being advertised now in the build up for 2016. The successful candidate will have experience of working with distributors and agencies at international level. You will work with the Senior Partner of Merlin and on an independent basis to identify and win Merlin and Route One opportunities across the globe.

Merlin is a partnership business with every member of the team participating in equity ownership. If you feel you can contribute to our business, are highly motivated and want to enjoy the benefits of being in a partnership please send a covering letter and up to date CV to:

Recruitment

The Merlin Partnership

19B Chasewater Heaths Business Park

Cobbett Road Burntwood,

Staordshire

WS7 3GL, UK

info@merlinbikegear.com

Tel - +44 (0)1543 270299

www.merlinbikegear.com

facebook.com/merlinapparel

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NEWS: TOP GEAR BIKES BOOST STAFFORD SALE TO £2.2MILLION

TOP GEAR BIKES BOOST STAFFORD SALE TO £2.2MILLION

Lots belonging to Top Gear duo James May and Richard Hammond helped achieve record sales of £2.2 million at the Bonhams auction held at the Stafford Show over the weekend..

Successful Bonhams Auction

Bonhams said its spring sale of pioneer, vintage and collectors' motorbikes far surpassed all previous years, and had seen 86% of lots sold.

All 12 machines - a mix of British and Japanese - entered into the sale at the County Showground by May and Hammond found a buyer, raising a combined £77,625.

A 2010 Norton Commando, owned by Hammond, was the most successful item from the pair’s consignments, selling for £15,180.

Meanwhile, a 1939 Vincent HRD Series-A Rapide, pictured - once rescued from being scrapped - achieved the highest sale price, fetching £275,900.

British machines proved particularly popular, with a 1937 Brough Superior 1096cc 11-50hp selling for £147,100, more than three times its highest estimate.

Ben Walker, international director of Bonhams Motorcycle department, said: "We've seen some fantastic prices, with new precedent being set.

"The level of enthusiasm at Stafford is always brilliant, with people travelling from across the globe to attend."

Further British motorcycle highlights include the 1930 Brough Superior OHV 680 Black Alpine (£138,140); the 1955 Vincent 998cc Black Shadow Series-D (£72,060); the 1926 Coventry Eagle 980cc Flying Eight (£106,780), and the 1933 Brough Superior 1,096cc 11-50hp Project sold at £52,900, more than four times top estimate.

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JOBS: New Field Sales Team required

NEW FIELD SALES TEAM

CONTACT DETAILS: ALL APPLICANTS TREATED IN THE STRICTEST OF CONFIDENCE, JEFF@DEEPBLUESYSTEMS.COM , 07956 549348

Nationwide coverage of the UK representing SHAD, TUCANO URBANO & Motorcycle Parts Network

We are looking for experienced field sales representatives in all areas of the UK, either independent agents on sales commission or salary with company vehicle, expenses plus commission.

Fantastic opportunity to work with a rapidly growing business, distributing top quality brand name products.

All applicants treated in the strictest of confidence.

e-mail: jeff@deepbluesystems.com

Tel: 07956 549348

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More on the Green Party transport policy

GREENS WANT BUS LANE BAN AND SPEED LIMITERS

Green Party: No bikes in bus lanes

Take note before you vote: the Green Party has pledged to remove motorcycles from bus lanes and to make speed limiters compulsory on high-powered machines.

According to its transport policy, the party believes speed limiters would “encourage riders on to small machines such as scooters and mopeds”. Other measure would include “strict noise limits”.

In a bid to secure votes on 7 May, the party says it “does not wish to see increased use of motorcycles because they emit pollution and noise and can endanger road users”.

On bus lanes, the policy says: “For the safety of other users, the Green Party does not feel it appropriate for motorcyclists to be able to use any priority measures put in for pedestrians and cyclists, including those shared with public transport.”

Speed limiters would also apply to cars.

A Green Party spokesperson said: “Our policy aims to minimise potential harm to others. Motorbikes with smaller engines and mopeds are useful additions to the transport mix in areas where public transport options are scarce, but it is right to prioritise journeys by public transport on foot and by bike as these reduce carbon emissions, reduce danger and keep pollution to a minimum.”

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NEWS: CARL FOGARTY CONFIRMED AS VIP GUEST FOR ISLE OF MAN TT RACES

CARL FOGARTY CONFIRMED AS VIP GUEST FOR ISLE OF MAN TT RACES

Carl Fogarty, who recently added the ITV 'I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here' title to his TT Races and World Superbike Championship wins, will be the guest of honour in the TT VIP Club for race day on Wednesday 10th June.

Carl, the most successful World Superbike rider of all time with 59 race wins and four outright titles in 1994, 1995, 1998 and 1999 will join Platinum Package guests at their table and will be sharing his experiences of racing around the TT Mountain Course as well as his recent exploits in the jungle.

Carl's TT career included race wins in the '89 750 Production Race and a Formula 1 and Senior double in 1990 and he also took part in what is widely recognised, and was voted by fans, as the greatest TT Race when he and Steve Hislop duelled over six thrilling laps in the 1992 Senior TT.

He said:
"I'm really looking forward to getting back to the Isle of Man and seeing what's going to be a brilliant race day.  I'm still incredibly proud of my TT wins and they mean the most to me out of all of my race victories. It's great to see the resurgence in the event and that a TT win has to be earned again and Wednesday's packed race day looks brilliant with three races in a packed programme. The food will also be much better than I had in the jungle as well!"

The Platinum TT VIP hospitality package will take you and your guests deeper into the famous races than ever before, with exclusive 'access all areas' passes putting the holder on the start line, winners' enclosure and behind the scenes at the post race press conferences. Carl will also join you at your platinum table and personally present you with a limited edition souvenir.  Platinum Ticket holders will also experience a much-coveted closed-roads lap of the TT Course in the official course car. 

Places can be purchased on an individual basis or complete tables of eight at 1000 + VAT per person.  There are only a limited number of platinum places available for Wednesday's race day which includes the second Monster Energy Supersport Race, the SES TT Zero and the Sure Sidecar Race 2.  To reserve places visit www.iomtt.com where tickets can be booked on line, or alternatively contact Regency Travel on 01624 694456 or Duke Marketing on 01624 640000.

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EVENT: Cholmondeley Pageant of Power (CPOP)

• CPOP to welcome bike legends Dougie Lampkin MBE and Sammy Miller MBE throughout the weekend
• Triumph to attend, alongside a range of powerful machines including the Millyard Viper 10 and a Suzuki Hayabusa
• This year’s CPOP will celebrate ‘power’ on land, air and water with events including a 1,000bhp-plus class on the famous Cholmondeley track, the world’s only flying Vulcan and a display from the Red Bull Matadors Aerobatic team
• CPOP runs from 12th to 14th June 2015

The Millyard Viper V10 will be there

A range of unique and powerful motorbikes, in addition to world-class riders, is set to wow crowds at this year’s Cholmondeley Pageant of Power (CPOP).

Dougie Lampkin MBE, world-renowned trials bike legend with 12 world titles to his name, will be appearing throughout the weekend showing off his extraordinary and at times nail-biting skills.

Another legendary biker taking to the track is Sammy Miller MBE. Successive British Champion 11 times and European Champion twice, Sammy has restored many rare and exotic machines, and even opened his own Museum in 1980. Sammy will be bringing two amazing bikes with him - the 1954 BMW RS54 Rennsport and the 1000cc 1925 Brough Superior SS100.

It’s not only riders; there is also a range of incredible bikes set to appear. A key highlight will be the extremely powerful Millyard Viper V10. Built by Brit bike builder Allen Millyard, this 500bhp machine is powered by an 8-litre Dodge Viper engine and has achieved top speeds of over 200mph.

Joining the Viper is a Suzuki Hayabusa superstreet bike. With approximately 650bhp and extended drag bodywork, this bike has run a quarter mile time of just 7.22 seconds at 205mph on fully street legal tyres.

Triumph will also be attending this year’s event, bringing along a selection of bikes from the their range.

James Hall, event director at CPOP, said: “This is just a small selection of the amazing bikes set to thrill the crowds at this year’s event, which we feel will really showcase the power, skill and individuality present within the motorcycle community.
“With a wide range of content, from trials bikes to high speed drag bikes, we feel the two-wheeled element of the event will be even more exhilarating than ever.”

The eighth staging of CPOP will celebrate ‘power’ on land, air and water with events including a 1,000bhp-plus class on the famous Cholmondeley track. The festival will honour the Lotus marque on Friday, American Muscle cars on Saturday and Eighties supercars on Sunday.

In addition, the world’s only flying Vulcan will be taking to the skies above Cholmondeley, with the Red Bull Matadors entertaining the crowd with an aerobatic display.

The above, combined with camping, live music from Tenors of Rock and the RPJ Band and hundreds of exciting trade stands, will make CPOP the family-friendly motorsport event of the summer.

More event details will be released in the coming months but tickets are now on sale at www.cpop.co.uk for the event at Cholmondeley Castle, Malpas, Cheshire. Adult tickets are priced from £26 and children’s tickets are free if purchased before 30th April 2015.

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NEWS: EBR GOES BELLY UP

EBR GOES BELLY UP

Erik Buell Racing, a niche US sports bike manufacturer launched in 2009 by the eponymous Erik Buell following Harley-Davidson’s closure of his original Buell incarnation, has declared itself insolvent and ceased trading after a new capital injection failed to materialise.

The company was founded with Buell’s own financial resources and then benefited from a £16.9m investment by giant Indian motorcycle manufacturer Hero MotoCorp in 2013, in return for a 49.2% shareholding. With Hero’s backing, EBR began to produce the 1190RX superbike based around a Rotax-derived engine, as well as carrying out design work on smaller mass-market models for Hero. High-profile activity included a presence on the World Superbike race grid sponsored by Hero. It also recently established a European marketing operation. Based in East Troy, Wisconsin, EBR recruited engineers from Yamaha, Boeing and General Motors. When the shutters went up, it had 126 design and production staff.

EBR has more than £13m in outstanding liabilities, according to a lawyer acting on Buell’s behalf. It has filed for Chapter 128 insolvency under Wisconsin state law, broadly similar to protection from creditors under US federal bankruptcy proceedings. This has placed the business in the hands of court-appointed receiver Michael S Polsky, who will solicit bids for its assets. A Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development notice has already announced the immediate statutory redundancy of all employees.

In a statement, Erik Buell said: “The turn we recently took, after we thought we were moving forward, was unexpected. We thought we had secured funding but, in the end, we were not able to get the funding in place. Therefore we need to do the best we can under the circumstances for all parties in interest. To say this setback is a disappointment does not begin to express what I feel right now. I am personally grateful for the support of our outstanding workers, customers and vendors. While this is a sad ending, I personally hope for a new and better beginning.”

More in the next issue of BDN.

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EVENTS NEWS: CELEBRITIES FLOCK TO PRESCOTT FESTIVAL

CELEBRITIES FLOCK TO PRESCOTT FESTIVAL

Thousands of visitors flocked to Prescott Bike Festival on Sunday 12 April 2015 to enjoy an action-packed day where rare classic, modern and famous motorcycles took to the historic hill climb course, and visitors got to rub shoulders with a raft of celebrity bikers.

The event received huge support from biker celebrities this year including four times World Superbike Champion and King of the Jungle Carl Fogarty (thanks to Oily Rag Clothing), former three-times British Superbike champion and Blood Bike ambassador John Reynolds, motorcycle adventurer Charley Boorman, former world darts champion Andy Fordham and, making a surprise visit, Hollywood actor Eric Bana, best known for playing ‘Hulk’ in the Marvel Comics blockbuster film. All our stars came free of charge and spent several hours signing autographs and having pictures taken with fans.

The festival was supported by many motorcycle clubs, trade stalls and dealers including those representing Ducati, Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki, Enfield, Triumph, AJP, Harley, Victory, BMW and KTM. Speaking at the event, Simon Belton, UK marketing manager for KTM UK, said: "We are the only manufacturer that has supported Prescott Bike Festival throughout the five years. We see it as a great place for us to interact with potential customers, and for them to watch our racers putting them through their paces on the hill. For the first time KTM provided test rides too, the location is beautiful and perfect for a ‘ride out’. What’s more the event supports a biker charity too."

The paddock was crammed with bike displays, dealer zone, motorcycle clubs, demo areas, stunt show and hundreds of trade stands plus a whole host of entertainment with live music.

All proceeds go to the Nationwide Association of Blood Bikes and its local branch Severn Freewheelers.

Festival organiser Gordon Downie, said: “Prescott Bike Festival is the charity's biggest fundraising event of the year. We are hugely grateful to all the exhibitors, clubs, dealers, marshals, bands, celebrities, volunteers, sponsors and visitors who continue to support us and have all played their part in making the 2015 event such a huge success.  It’s been our best ever festival in regards to visitor numbers, industry support and the weather! As a result of the event success we have introduced Shelsley Bike Festival, as a season closer, which will take place at Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb on Sunday, 13 September.”

Foggy pic: Geoff Robinson; group shot: Allan Rhodes

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NEWS: CORBY TAKES DELIVERY OF FIRST H2R IN THE COUNTRY

CORBY TAKES DELIVERY OF FIRST H2R IN THE COUNTRY

Corby Kawasaki have a H2R!

Corby Kawasaki was the first dealer in the country to take delivery of the new mirror finish techno marvel £41,000 Kawasaki H2R production road racer.

The 330bhp supercharged slick-shod missile arrived on 13 April at the Northamptonshire dealership, creating the most excitement since the premises were opened in 1977.

"It was exciting, but nerve-racking just getting the H2R out of the van because it is so valuable," said CK owner Brian Pack, who was beaming at having the world's fastest and most expensive production bike on the premises.

"It's faster than a MotoGP bike, and we believe it’s the world's first supercharged production motorcycle," added Pack, who on the same day took delivery of the non-race H2 version of the 1000cc four.

The £22,000 H2 was already sold, but the miracle H2R is not for sale. It will remain on the premises as a star attraction.

www.corbykawasaki.co.uk

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NEWS: HARLEY-DAVIDSON SPORTSTER TO BE WON AT SUPER RALLY

HARLEY-DAVIDSON SPORTSTER TO BE WON AT SUPER RALLY

TICKET holders have the chance to win a brand new Harley-Davidson Sportster when they attend the Federation of Harley-Davidson Clubs of Europe Super Rally in May.
Anyone who has purchased a ticket to the biking extravaganza being held at the Lincolnshire Showground, could be walking away with a brand new Harley-Davidson Sportster, courtesy of the Harley-Davidson Motor Company.

Returning to the UK for the first time in 26 years, the West London Harley Riders will be hosting the four day event from 21 to the 25 May with highlights including a fly-by by the Battle of Britain Lancaster Bomber and numerous big band performances offering various types of music on 3 different stages.

Mal Nijjar, company secretary for the West London Harley Riders Events Ltd, said: “Every year a Harley-Davidson is given away as a prize during the Super Rally and we are more than excited to do it again this year. 

“With so many Harley enthusiasts attending the rally each year, the opportunity to win one of these amazing bikes is fantastic and I’m looking forward to seeing who the lucky winner will be.”

All tickets to the Super Rally will be entered into a special raffle to win the Harley- Davidson Sportster which will be drawn later on Saturday 25. The winner will then be able to pick up their brand new bike at their nearest Harley-Davidson dealership.  
Mal added; “I would like to thank the Harley-Davidson Motor Company for its generosity in providing us with a brand new motorbike. 

“The raffle will be a very special and exciting addition to an event that is already spectacular.”

The event will also host a Knights of the Dammed Medieval Jousting Show and a Man vs Food competition that will provide the ultimate challenge for food lovers.

A competition for the best custom bike will also take place with six categories available to enter bikes into and the National Youthbike’s build-off competition for young people. 
Jayne Southall, CEO of the Lincolnshire Showground, said: “This event is going to be truly exciting not just for Harley-Davidson fans but also for the whole family – with so much to see and experience, the Super Rally is not to be missed.”

“There will be plenty of impressive attractions and I am thrilled that the Lincolnshire Showground has been chosen to host this European event while in the UK.”

Advance ticket sales have now sold out but tickets are still available on the gate at £75 and will give access to the event for the four days. Each ticket will provide visitors with £2.50 each day to spend on breakfast at the event. 

The Super Rally donates part of the ticket prices to its chosen charities Headway and National Youthbike.

For more information, please visit http://www.superrally2015england.com/

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NEWS: TOP GEAR PAIR TO SELL EIGHT MACHINES AT STAFFORD

TOP GEAR PAIR TO SELL EIGHT MACHINES AT STAFFORD

Top Gear bikes for sale at Stafford

TV stars James May and Richard Hammond will be selling motorcycles from their personal collections through Bonhams at the 35th Carole Nash International Classic MotorCycle Show at Stafford on25-26 April.

While their future as presenters of BBC’s Top Gear may be uncertain, the duo’s motorcycles are sure to attract a lot of attention.

Among the eight machines being offered by May are a 2010 Yamaha SR400 ‘Grievous Angel’ by Deus Ex Machina, valued at between £8000 and £12,000, and a 1974 Yamaha 49cc FS1-E, which is expected to fetch between £2000 and £2400.

Hammond, who’s selling four machines, is hoping for between £14,500 and £18,500 for his 2010 Norton Commando 961SE and £2500-£3500 for his 1975 FS1-E.

“Just because I’m unemployed now doesn’t mean I have to get rid of everything,” said May. “I was going to sell these bikes anyway. And those paintings, and my collection of Scalextric cars. Honest.”

Hammond added: “As a serious collector of motorcycles, it’s important to review one’s stable regularly, and the Bonhams Stafford sale is the ideal opportunity to move bikes on and possibly acquire new ones. I also have a canoe, and some Wharfedale hi-fi speakers, if anyone’s interested.”

Ben Walker, Bonhams international head of motorcycles, said: “Jokes aside, James and Richard are offering for sale some great motorcycles from their collections, including examples of Yamaha, Suzuki, Honda and Norton – and we expect the collection to attract a lot of attention at the upcoming Spring Stafford Sale.

“We’re delighted that they both elected to consign their collections with Bonhams Motorcycle Department, an agreement that originated many months ago”.

The event takes place at Staffordshire County Showground, Weston Road, Stafford ST18 0BD. Appearing as guests of honour will be former motorcycle sport stars and leading industry figures Nick and Tony Jefferies.

Members of Yorkshire’s first family of racing, the pair will also be bringing along two legendary TT-winning machines to display; the Honda RC30 ridden by Nick and the Triumph Rob North Triple ridden by Tony. The brothers will be presenting show awards, signing autographs and chatting on stage with industry favourite and fellow TT champion Steve Plater.

 www.classicbikeshows.com

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NEWS: First Poole Dream Machines Bike of the Night Winner - 7 April 2015

First Poole Dream Machines Bike of the Night Winner - 7 April 2015

Wayne Hughes bike- Bike of the Night Winner

A glorious spring evening kicked off the first Poole Dream Machines of 2015 with nearly 1000 bikes taking advantage of the sunshine.  Organised by Poole Tourism, the event sees the largest weekly motorcycle meet in the South, taking place every from 6pm Tuesday evening, April – September. From the latest superbikes and custom builds to vintage classics and trikes, the Quay and Harbour offer the perfect location to show off a superb range of motorbikes where bikers and spectators enjoy a unique relaxed atmosphere.   And with a great selection of waterside cafes, bars, restaurants and food kiosks to enjoy during the event, it is the perfect place to relax and have a bite to eat.

Congratulations to Wayne Hughes from Poole who rode home with a race kit courtesy of Muc-Off, plus a Bike of the Night Winners T-shirt from BatsHogsty.  Judge for the night, Mayor of Poole, Cllr Peter Adams, said: “This bike was a stunning colour and immaculate. I chose it because it was built for comfort but has kept its traditional appearance – it’s a great bike.”

As a Bike of the Night winner, Wayne will also be invited to take part in the “Bike of the Year” finale at the end of the season, with cash prizes on offer for the top three places.
If you’re an avid biker, don't forget we have a limited stock of season armbands from Poole Welcome Centre which give access to the whole season for £7.50. Please note you will not be able to trade in your £1 entry ticket on the event night. 

Dream Machines fans can catch comedian and biker Ross Noble on TV next week as Dave airs the new series of Freewheeling.  Ross visited the event in 2014 for his random Twitter-powered anti-travelogue inspired by suggestions from his 500k twitter followers. The episode airs on 14 April at 10pm.

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Event: Thunderfest 2015, Anglesey

With just six places before a complete sell out, Thunderfest 2015 – which will be held as part of the Welsh Classic Motorcycle Festival at the Anglesey Circuit over the weekend of 30-31 May – has attracted a record entry.

75 years young Davy Wilkinson was second in class B #28 Tony Head and his BSA

Thunderfest organiser, Frank Melling, said: “We’re delighted with both the size and quality of the entry. We will have some fabulous bikes, ranging from 1960s GP bikes to modern classics like the iconic Moto Guzzi Le Mans. In eight years of the Thunderfest, this is the best entry we have ever had. Cavalcade entries are strong too.

“A key factor is the popularity of the Anglesey circuit. Every rider is in agreement that Anglesey is one of the great tracks in the world with a completely natural layout which is the nearest to real road racing that a rider can have on a race circuit.

“The large size of the entry means that there will be some great track action and the Le Mans start will get each day’s Thunderfest off to a spectacular start.”

www.thundersprint.com

info@thundersprint.com

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EVENTS: 2015 Dream Machines cruise into Poole

2015 Dream Machines cruise into Poole 

Celebrate sublime two wheeled action as 7 April sees the first Dream Machines of 2015 cruise into Poole.

Poole Quay- a great night out

From BSA to Yamaha you’ll find the virtual A-Z of motorbikes displayed on Poole Quay every Tuesday evening from 7 April to the 29 September as the biggest and best weekly motorbike meet in the UK returns.

Organised by Poole Tourism, the friendly meet regularly draws over 1000 riders from across the UK for 26 weeks of classic ride outs.  From the latest superbikes and custom builds to vintage classics and trikes, the Quay and Harbour offer the perfect location to show off a superb range of motorbikes where bikers and spectators enjoy a unique relaxed atmosphere.   And with a great selection of waterside cafes, bars, restaurants and food kiosks to enjoy during the event, it is the perfect place to relax and have a bite to eat.

Attended by novices and enthusiasts, fans include comedian and biker Ross Noble who visited the event in 2014 for Freewheeling, his random Twitter-powered anti-travelogue inspired by suggestions from his 500k twitter followers.  The new series currently showing on Dave features his visit to Poole Dream Machines on 14 April at 10pm.

Dream Machines kicks off Poole’s Wave 105 Summertime in the South, a massive programme of events in the town from April to November.  During Dream Machines, Poole Quay is closed off to all traffic, except motorbikes, creating a truly spectacular display for visitors. 

Poole Dream Machines is a fully marshalled event with a £1 entry charge.  Bike enthusiasts can purchase a season armband for £8.50 on the Tuesday event nights, which includes a £1 non refundable entry fee, or £7.50 in advance.  Armbands are limited and available from the Welcome Centre on Poole Quay. 

The weekly “Bike of the Night” competition sees different judges pick out their personal favourite each week, Mayor Cllr Peter Adams will be judging the first night.  The winning owner will receive a race kit courtesy of Muc-off.  All weekly winners will also get invited back to take part in the “Bike of the Year” finale on Tuesday 29 September. 

Dream Machines is a self-funding event and any surplus income after costs have been paid is donated to local charities nominated by the volunteer Marshalls normally at the Bike of the Year event, on the final night of the season.  

Bruce Grant-Braham, Chairman of the Poole Tourism Partnership, said; “Dream Machines is a huge part of Poole’s packed summer events programme, attracting thousands of people to the Quay throughout the season.  The bikes on display are the pride and joy of their owners and their enthusiasm creates a superb spectacle and relaxed atmosphere that has become a real part of Poole’s heritage.”

Anyone with a few hours to spare who is interested in helping out at the event as a Marshall, please contact Anne Simpson on 07973 474050.

Check out pooletourism.com for regular Poole Dream Machine updates and information on all other events taking place as part of “Summertime in the South” with Wave 105FM.

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NEWS: Watsonian and the Women's Institute

Watsonian Sidecars helped the Women’s Institute to celebrate its centenary, providing transport for their local WI to carry a specially commissioned baton in a national relay. Moreton-in-Marsh WI arrived in a fire engine and handed the baton to former president of Blockley WI Sheila Weir, who delivered it to the neighbouring village of Ebrington in a Royal Enfield/Watsonian Manx outfit, driven by company director Ben Matthews.  It was her first trip in a sidecar and she thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Blockley Village Shop baked a cake to celebrate the occasion, decorated with a miniature version of the sidecar combination.

For more information on Watsonian sidecars call 01386 700907 or visit www.watsonian-squire.com.

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EVENT: Free Trial Bike Show in Chingford

Motorpoint is set to host an exclusive free trial bike show next month in Chingford.

Chingford, 11th April, Free Trials Show

The UK’s leading car supermarket has teamed up with James Dabill, the five-times British Trials Bike Champion, to put on a series of spectacular performances at the Motorpoint Chingford site on Lea Valley Road in Chingford on Saturday, 11 April – his only one in London in 2015.

Dabill, who rides for Dougie Lampkin’s Vertigo team in the FIM X-Trial and FIM Outdoor World Championship, will be showing off his skills on the Motorpoint Chingford site on a specially-built stage at 10am, 12pm and 2pm. He will also be available to sign autographs and pose for photographs in between performances.

“I am really looking forward to coming to Motorpoint Chingford and putting on a real show for the fans,” said Dabill. “If you’re a fan of trials bikes, and motorbikes in general, you won’t want to miss the action. It’s going to be incredible!”

Charles Faulkner, General Manger of Motorpoint Chingford, added: “We are really excited to have James Dabill onsite. He’s one of the best trials bike riders in the world and it is a real coup to have him with us at Motorpoint.”

Established in 1998, Motorpoint is the UK’s leading Car Supermarket with eight locations in Birmingham, Burnley, Chingford, Derby, Glasgow, Newport, Peterborough and Widnes.

www.motorpoint.co.uk. 
www.facebook.com/motorpoint

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