MCI urge repeat CBT riders to plan for an A1 test

The Motorcycle Industry Association (MCI) is calling for those who are intending to repeat their CBTs (Compulsory Basic Training) to plan ahead and take an A1 licence instead.


 

A CBT qualifies a rider to ride a motorcycle, scooter or moped up to 125cc for a period of two years, after which the CBT must be renewed.

Taking an A1 licence will help riders who are happy riding a 125cc machine to improve their road skills and will be a one-off cost, which will never need to be renewed.  This means that if they leave motorcycling for a while, their licence will still be valid, should they wish to return.

There are other benefits too, including not having to ride with L plates and being able to take a passenger.

Karen Cole, Safety and Training Director for the MCI says riders should start planning a few months before their CBT is due for renewal:

“It would be best to start training for an A1 test around 4 to 6 months before the CBT needs renewing.  This should allow most riders enough time to choose a training school and be able to get a good choice of test dates at a centre which suits them.”

“Records of how many people are repeating CBTs are not kept by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA), but we know that 190,000 CBT certificates are issued each year, a sizeable percentage of which are bound to be repeats.  Riders in this category should put the money they’d spend on another CBT (somewhere between £100 and £150) towards training and testing for a licence which will last a lifetime.”

For someone already holding a CBT the cost of taking the three parts of the motorcycle test (theory, Mod 1 and Mod 2) is from £121.50 plus any training costs.*

Even those who anticipate moving to an A2 as soon as age will allow them, will gain from taking an A1, as they will learn new skills earlier on in their riding and will be more prepared for their next test.

For those who do not want to do an A2 or A licence yet, or are restricted from doing so by age, it means they will be better trained, should they decide to progress to bigger bikes.

*Total cost of taking a test is slightly more if Mod 2 is taken at the weekend = £135.00   Training costs will vary according to need.

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Get On at Dirt Bike Show

 

Get on at the Dirt Bike Show

Get On is to run 20 minute taster sessions at this year’s Dirt Bike Show at Stoneleigh Park, 31 October - 3 November. The industry-funded scheme to get more new riders on to PTWs will provide a fleet of geared and automatic 125cc bikes and scooters for show visitors to ride. Get On’s operations manager, Chris Knowles, says that while many show goers will already be competent riders, he expects the feature to be popular with family members who have not ridden a bike or those who need a refresher to remind them of what they have been missing. Get On will run on all four days of the show and will be undercover in hall four.

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Tomos signs first dealer

 

Tomos: Once seen in Woolies' windows

Motoden has become the first dealer in the country to take on a Tomos franchise. The East London dealer, who has four showrooms selling the Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha and Piaggio brands at its Motoden and Scooterden showrooms, is the first in 30 years to retail the now classic retro moped, at one time sold by Woolworths and now distributed here by Hastings, Sussex based Tomos GB.

George Dennison, Motoden’s managing director, has put two demo bikes into the company’s Kingsland Road, London, E6, showroom and was awaiting delivery of UK spec bikes when BDN spoke to him. “Our two demo bikes have created a fair bit of interest,” said Dennison. “Retro is fashionable in London and the bikes offer a bit of fun for our customers. You could call it a niche market,” he added.

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New home for AJS

AJS- moving

Iconic British motorcycle brand AJS is moving to new premises. To facilitate this transfer, the business will be closed for five days from Monday 29 July to Friday 2 August inclusive.

The new address is AJS Motorcycles Ltd, Unit 3, Balksbury Estate, Balksbury Hill, Upper Clatford, Andover, Hants SP11 7LW.

Although the company’s email address remains the same, telephone and fax numbers will change. These new numbers will be notified on the AJS website by 5 August. During the closure week, recorded messages can be left on 01264 710074.

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BENNETTS TO SPONSOR CLASSIC TT

Leading motorcycle insurance broker Bennetts has agreed a multi-year deal to be title sponsor of the new Classic TT races run alongside the Manx Grand Prix in August.

Sponsor of the Classic TT

The event will be known as “The Classic TT Races presented by Bennetts” and promotes a recent enhancement of classic bike insurance cover by the company. The principal race will also be badged as the “Bennetts 500cc Classic TT”.

Bennetts began its association with the TT in 2007 as presenting sponsor of the centenary event. More recently it has been the official insurance partner, a role which included title sponsorship of the Lightweight TT in 2012 when leveraging support for BikerPetition.co.uk and in 2013 under the guise of BikeSocial.co.uk.

Bennetts marketing director Hannah Squirrell commented: “Bennetts has over 80 years of heritage and with our recent classic bike insurance developments we are delighted to extend our association with the Isle of Man. We believe that the event will have a great future and it has already generated significant interest and profile within the biking community.”

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THUNDERSPRINT TO MOVE TO DARLEY MOOR

After only a year at Anglesey Circuit, Thundersprint organiser Frank Melling is moving the event from North Wales to Darley Moor in the Derbyshire Dales.

Thundering across to Derbyshire

Billed as Europe’s biggest festival of motorcycling, Thundersprint had been the annual showcase event in Northwich town centre since 1997. Attendance at the free-to-visit event regularly topped 100,000 over its two-days.

When Melling and Chester District Council parted company in 2012, Thundersprint moved to Anglesey for this year’s April event, but extreme weather conditions and Anglesey’s off-centre location took their toll on attendance. Says Melling: “Visitors were pressing for a more central venue for next year’s Thundersprint and when the Darley Moor Motorcycle Road Race Club offered the use of their circuit, which is only 20 miles from the M1, it didn’t require much persuading.”

Melling says the Darley Moor circuit is the best kept secret in bike racing. “It’s a great track, set in stunning parkland and with a history going back over 50 years. The perfect venue for Thundersprint,” he added.

Dates for next year’s event are the weekend of 10-11 May. For more info tel 01928 740498.

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Alpinestars Monster collection

Latest alpinestars Monster themed clothing

Featuring Alpinestars branding and the distinctive Monster Energy ‘Claw’ logo, the Monster Collection includes  the Claw Leather Suit and the GP-M Pro Leather Jacket. The Oxide Air textile jacket and SP-M2 leather race-style glove. Technically constructed from premium materials and incorporating protection in critical areas, all products in the Monster range are designed to improve all-round comfort and performance.  

Latest alpinestars Monster themed clothing

www.alpinestars.com


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Five “tests” in a day for Goughie

 

Darren Gough- serious biker

 Darren Gough, retired England test cricketer and former captain of Yorkshire, tomorrow (16 July) rides his Triumph Rocket to all five of this year’s Ashes Test grounds as part of a Bennetts’ Biking Dream challenge.

In June, he successfully completed the insurers challenge to ride a lap of the TT course in the company of Milky Quayle. In preparation for tomorrow’s challenge, Goughie recently took and passed the Institute of Advanced Motorists advanced motorcycle test.

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Recalls for Triumph Street Triples

The Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) has issued recall notices for the Triumph Street Triple, Street Triple ABS, Street Triple R and Street Triple R ABS. It cites “loss of steering control” for the recall. Aprilia’s RSV4 is also being recalled for “sudden loss of power”.

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JD Classics to work on Toseland's new ride

Maldon, Essex, 11th July 2013: Leading classic car specialist JD Classics has been commissioned to work on a one-off motorcycle project that aims to break the Motorcycle World Land Speed Record.

The 52 Express- aiming to take Toseland to 400mph

Former two times World Superbike Champion James Toseland will attempt to break the current record with the ‘52 Express’ Streamliner motorcycle in September 2014 on Utah’s hallowed Bonneville Salt Flats.

JD Classics’ in-house Paint Shop has prepared the ‘52 Express’ in readiness for its forthcoming public debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this weekend (11-14 July) using specialist methods to minimise weight and maximise aerodynamic efficiency.

JD Classics Managing Director Derek Hood commented: “Although we are a classic car specialist it has been very exciting to support James in his bid to break the Motorcycle World Land Speed Record. The 52 Express had to be painted while keeping weight to an absolute minimum. All micron builds have been carefully measured and the number of coats kept as low as possible.”

“To maximise its aerodynamic efficiency the final coat has been flatted and polished to an incredibly smooth finish. We are sure it will be a must see at this weekend’s Goodwood Festival of Speed and we are confident that James will break the current World Land Speed Record at Bonneville next year.”

The current World Land Speed Record of 376.363mph is held by American Rocky Robinson, but Toseland’s belt-driven ‘52 Express’ aims to reach over 400 mph with its Rolls Royce Gem gas turbine Lynx helicopter engine.

The ‘52 Express’ is being built by a team lead by Project Manager Robin Richardson at the University of Derby and former GP and TT sidecar racer Alex Macfadzean.

As a former holder of the British Land Speed Record and the first man in the UK to reach a speed of over 200 mph, Macfadzean is familiar with the huge task Toseland faces.

James Toseland added: “I am hugely excited about this record attempt but I’m under no illusions as to how difficult it will be. If successful, this will be a fantastic personal achievement but also a great accolade to bring back to the UK.”

The ‘52 Express’ will also be on display at JD Classics’ Essex based headquarters for our Breakfast Morning on Sunday 27th October along with James and fellow motorcycle World Champion and only man to win championships on both two and four wheels, John Surtees.

Visitors to the Breakfast Morning are welcome to tour JD Classics’ in-house sales, engine, paint and trim departments. This includes a collection of over 60 classic British, Japanese and Italian motorcycles and a huge array of classic road and race cars.



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CLASSIC TT TO BE TELEVISED

A two-hour special programme covering this year’s inaugural Classic TT meeting on the Isle of Man will be broadcast by ITV4 on Wednesday 28 August from 9pm. Production will be courtesy of North One, also television contractor to the modern TT in June.

Classic TT to be on the telly-box

Dramatically raising the commercial potential and profile of the TT’s new retro version running alongside the Manx Grand Prix, this show will also be distributed globally to many of the international broadcasters already showing award-winning TT highlights packages, including Discovery Velocity in the USA and Network 10 in Australia.

North One TV chief executive Neil Duncanson said: “We'll be looking to really get under the skin of the event and capture the thrilling sights, sounds and action. We won’t just be looking at the racing but will be producing a number of features that cover all aspects of the festival. There’s a huge amount of content packed into a short period and with so many great racing names past and present, the challenge will be to fit everything into a two-hour show.”

Matt Smith, an ITV Sport presenter who currently hosts UEFA Cup Live and Champions League shows, will be the anchor. Former bike racers and experienced TV presenters Steve Parrish, James Whitham and Steve Plater will provide the commentary.

Laurence Skelly, the Manx politician responsible for tourism, added: “This is a great platform to profile both the inaugural Classic TT and the Isle of Man worldwide. It will also assist us in achieving our long-term commercial revenue objectives for the event and help to generate additional visitors to the Isle of Man.”

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NEW TRIUMPH SHOWROOM FOR WEBBS

Webbs of Lincoln: £150,000 Triumph showroom investment

Webbs of Lincoln is celebrating 50 years in the motorcycle trade this year with the official opening of a new Triumph showroom on 11 July. A major investment for the business, it raises the profile of both Triumph and Yamaha brands in Lincolnshire and heralds a fresh chapter in the history of this dealership.

Webbs partner Andre Waszczyszyn commented: “We are all really excited about the opening. It’s taken an immense amount of work and vision from Intertech our contractors and the Webbs team to transform an unused part of the building into what really is something special and full of character. We really want to shout about it. So we thought we would organise a special opening to show bikers in Lincolnshire what we can now offer. The new-look store has been designed especially to allow us to show off the complete Triumph range in its full glory.”

Webbs is located at 117-121 Portland St, Lincoln, LN5 7LG; tel 01522 528951.

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HERO BUYS BIG STAKE IN BUELL

India’s largest motorcycle manufacturer Hero MotoCorp has bought a 49.2 per cent shareholding in Erik Buell Racing (EBR) for £16.4m. Hero already had a design and technology sourcing agreement with the US niche sports bike maker, established just over a year ago.

India's Hero- big Buell stake

“This is the first time that Hero has gone out of India to buy equity in a company,” said Hero chief executive Pawan Munjal. “It extends our relationship. We will be working with EBR even more closely now and get into selling and marketing of both EBR and Hero brands in both international and domestic markets.”

To facilitate the acquisition, Hero incorporated a wholly-owned subsidiary in the US and has put £9.9m up-front. The balance will be paid upon completion of the deal. Hero will play a more active role in the operations of EBR, which will now also function as an extended R&D arm of his company, Munjal added, with two directors on the EBR board. However, EBR will continue to be headed by its founder, chairman and chief executive Erik Buell.

Hero reportedly expects EBR’s annual manufacturing capacity to reach 20,000 units within the next five years — although it only sold 65 bikes in 2012.

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Yamaha XV950R

Yamaha: new era of Sport Heritage motorcycles

Inspired by the past, built for the future.

A new era of Sport Heritage Yamaha motorcycles starts with the introduction of the XV950 and XV950R, two performance bobbers that are inspired by the past, yet built for the future. With looks influenced by Yamaha’s strong heritage and traditional values, these models mark the beginning of a new range of Yamaha motorcycles that will blend the very latest technology with established looks to inspire riders that are looking to the essence of motorcycling.

In garages all over the world, riders have been customising Yamaha motorcycles to give their own timeless spin on already established classic looks. Drawn by the iconic machines of the 1970s and 1980s, these fabrication specialists have used traditional Japanese quality engineering as a basis to build a whole new style of motorcycle. Each bike is individual to its creator, reflecting their own personality and influences, however at their heart they remain true to the core principles of engineering excellence ingrained within every Yamaha motorcycle.

For 2014 Yamaha is opening up the door of the world of customisation to every rider with the new XV950 and XV950R models – two bobbers that encapsulate the character and personality of those original back street creations in a new neo retro Japanese look.

Powered by a 58-cubic-inch (942cc) air-cooled V-twin engine housed in a steel double cradle frame, these custom bikes are individual in their raw looks with a casual and laidback attitude. Perfect for unwinding after a hard day’s work, the XV950 models will return riders to the roots of motorcycling as they re-discover the joy of riding a unique looking custom bike with the pulse and feeling that only an air-cooled V-twin can provide.

Compact and stylish with a low seat height, the XV950 models deliver both a refined and agile ride while retaining the timeless character and soul that is a critical part of owning such an individual machine. Yamaha’s unique flat line style and use of exposed metal components accentuates the bike’s pure simplicity while the V-twin motor provides both spirited performance and unquestioned reliability. Stripped back and stylish, the XV950 model provides a perfect entry into the world of customisation while the XV950R injects a further element of sporting ability with twin ‘piggy back’ shock absorbers, a buckskin-look seat cover and the use of a painted stripe along the fuel tank.

The XV950 models represent a new direction for Yamaha as it looks to the past for inspiration on a new line of neo retro Japanese motorcycles, creating timeless machines that encapsulate the pure joy and freedom offered by two wheels without compromising on the quality or reliability that riders expect from a Yamaha product. By blending the very latest technology such as ABS (R version only), advanced 3D fuel-injection mapping and LED lights with already established iconic flat line styling, these new models are certain to inspire riders who are not willing to accept compromise between style and technical specifications.

The engine

Designed to capture the true soul and feeling of a stripped-down custom bike, Yamaha have taken the proven engine from the popular XVS950A and developed it further for the XV950 models.

The air-cooled 60-degree V-twin engine produces 80 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm thanks to its four-valve per cylinder SOHC design with a compact pentroof combustion chamber, making it ideal for urban use as well as spirited performance outside of the city’s limits. With a capacity of 58-cubic-inches (942cc) the V-twin motor’s cylinders have ceramic composite plating while the piston is constructed from forged aluminium for optimum reliability as well as performance. To aid urban use and provide smoother engagement, a new rubber damper is incorporated within the clutch mechanism, helping to reduce rider fatigue during frequent use.

In order to achieve the compact styling of the XV950 models, Yamaha have completely revised the motor’s intake system and air cleaner. Designed for outstanding efficiency and to contribute to the pure look of the bike, the new compact air cleaner is located on the right side of the motor. Despite having a 15% smaller 2.3 litre capacity when compared to the XVS950S air cleaner, flow analysis and road test evaluations have demonstrated this new style of air cleaner gives the XV950 motor improved torque characteristics.

With the aim of delivering lively acceleration and drivability as well as excellent fuel economy, specific fuel injection system settings to compliment the new intake layout have been created for the XV950 models. New 3D maps for the ignition timing and fuel injection have been developed with the aim of increasing the V-twin engine’s already excellent acceleration in the mid and low-speed ranges, optimizing its performance within an urban environment.

To match this new fuel mapping and further boost low to mid-range acceleration, the XV950 models also feature a newly designed exhaust system. A 2-into-1 exhaust pipe layout on the right side of the motor emphasises the compact nature of the motorcycle by hugging the engine’s form, creating a tightly packed unit with a short muffler. While passing all the required noise and emissions standards, the use of glass wool within the silencer produces a clear and crisp exhaust note that is unique to the XV950 models.

With both the air cleaner and exhaust being shielded by stainless steel covers, the raw metal appearance and compact minimalist styling of these neo retro Japanese bobbers is thanks in a large part to the air-cooled motor.

Chassis

Designed to deliver light and energetic handling, the XV950 models feature a brand new double cradle steel frame. Constructed as one unit without a separate sub-frame assembly, the V-twin engine is mounted as a stressed member with a rigid mount system to allow it to transfer the motor’s pulse through to the rider.

A short wheelbase of 1,570 mm provides a light and agile ride for maximum maneuverability in an urban environment as well as a neutral and stable feeling when cruising on the highway. Upfront, 41 mm forks compliment the traditional look of the twin shock absorbers that have been set up to provide a compliant and soft initial stroke with increased damping later in the movement. The XV950R features improved shock absorber performance thanks to the addition of ‘piggy back’ compression damping adjustors.

To keep the bobber look, the XV950 models utilise newly designed 12-spoke cast wheels in 100/90-19 size front and 150/80-16 size rear. Together with the sporty suspension these wheel and tyre sizes offer the optimum balance of performance, grip and feeling from the road’s surface. This is a bike that encapsulates all of Yamaha’s legendary sporting heritage as well as its traditional styling lines.

Despite containing the flowing styling of the classic bobber look, the XV950 models use modern components and techniques where they benefit the riding experience. Advanced 3D fuel-injection maps, compact pentroof combustion chambers and highly developed intake design gives the XV950 models outstanding efficiency as well as impeccable throttle feeling for relaxed riding. Escape the city’s confines and the dynamic 60-degree V-twin comes alive, pulsing with torque and complimenting the sporty chassis by delivering the kind of riding pleasure that riders expect from a Yamaha product.

The brake discs have a wave type design on a floating rotor with both the front and rear running a 298 mm diameter disc. This contemporary design improves braking control, helps prevent brake noise and provides a greater resistance to heat distortion in the disc. In keeping with Yamaha’s philosophy of blending future technology with classic looks, the XV950R has ABS as standard, further enhancing its sporting potential.

A newly designed drive belt, which with a width of 21mm is the smallest on any Yamaha motorcycle, contains a carbon-fibre core for added strength and rigidity as well as achieving excellent levels of quietness.

Styling

Using the classic bobber style of a slim and stripped down look as a basis, the XV950 models expand on this to create a unique and modern neo Japanese design. Yamaha’s unique flat line style and use of exposed metal components accentuates the bike’s pure simplicity while the V-twin motor gives a compact heart to the motorcycle. The XV950 models have a raw metallic image while remaining simple in their design and sporty in their performance.

The single round headlight, jewellery-look round LED rear light, use of stainless steel highlights and cut-down steel fenders all accentuate this look while the 12.2 litre teardrop style fuel tank and round LCD speedometer introduce another neo Japanese visual element. The sculpted rider’s seat, which has a Buckskin-like cover on the XV950R, is relaxed for urban riding and has a 690mm seat height, making the XV950 models reassuringly low for any kind of rider.

Genuine Accessories

To assist riders in adding their own personal touches to their XV950 or XV950R, Yamaha has developed a full range of genuine accessories. Whether it be transforming their bike into a ‘performance bobber’ with an Akrapovic slip-on exhaust, mini-fairing, stiletto seat, stainless steel brake lines and a performance air cleaner cover or creating a ‘vintage bobber’ with spoke wheels, springer seat and fork cover, the decision is up to the individual.

The XV950 and XV950R models exist to inspire riders to express their own personality and influences. How far they let their imagination take them is all part of their journey together…

Colours:

XV950R          Matt Grey with tank graphics
                        Camo Green with tank graphics
XV950             Competition White
                        Midnight Black

Suggested Retail Price:
XV950R          £7499
XV950             £7199

plus road fund and first reg. fees.

Available: September

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DUCATI MULTISTRADA 1200 TAKES FOURTH SUCCESSIVE PIKES PEAK VICTORY

French privateer racer, Bruno Langlois, 

takes Ducati Multistrada to 1205 category Pikes Peak victory

Fourth successive category win for Ducati Multistrada

Borgo Panigale (Bologna, Italy), 02 July 2013 – The Ducati Multistrada has taken victory in the famous Pikes Peak “Race to the Clouds” event in Colorado for the fourth year in succession with a spectacular win this time for French privateer racer, Bruno Langlois.

Langlois, whose career history includes titles from the Championnat France de Côte in 1985 and Champion de France Promosport 750 in 1990, continues to compete at home in France, but after whetting his appetite with a third place at Pikes Peak last year aboard a Ducati Streetfighter, vowed to return for the victory.

With a helping hand from Ducati West Europe and his local Ducati Dealer, Moto Prestige, Langlois secured the use of a standard 2013 Ducati Multistrada 1200 S Pikes Peak – built and named to celebrate the Italian manufacturer’s first win on the mountain - and took the 1205 category win.

The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, or "Race to the Clouds", is situated in a range of the Rocky Mountains, 16km west of Colorado Springs and races from a start line altitude of 2,862 metres (9,389ft) to a finish line at 4,300 (14,100ft).

Langlois used Ducati’s highly awarded Multistrada 1200, which features a unique “4-bikes-in-1” character by combining the technologies of Ride-by-Wire, Ducati Electronic Suspension, Ducati Traction Control and ABS into the four Riding Modes of Sport, Touring, Urban and Enduro. The modes, which can be pre-programmed with personalized settings, enable the rider to transform the motorcycle at the touch of a button, even while riding. This touch-button versatility was further enhanced for 2013 with the introduction of Ducati Skyhook Suspension, now proven perfect for the Pikes Peak event as well as impressing Multistrada owners all over the world.

Victory at this year’s “Race to the Clouds” has highlighted the passion and determination for Ducatisti such as Bruno Langlois to embrace the Ducati brand and prove their talent in exciting and memorable events such as Pikes Peak.

Managing Director of Ducati West Europe, Thierry Mouterde, said: “We are very happy to have been able to help make this victory happen for Bruno. As a passionate brand, we were impressed by his determination to win Pikes Peak and we knew that the Multistrada 1200 has a proven track record there. We would like to congratulate both Bruno and Moto Prestige, our Ducati dealer in Ajaccio, for the great work they have done.”

Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A – An Audi Group Company

Founded in 1926, Ducati has been producing sport-inspired motorcycles since 1946. Their motorcycles are characterised by “Desmodromic” performance engines, innovative design and avant-garde technology. Covering several market segments, Ducati's range of motorcycles are divided into model families which include: Diavel, Hypermotard, Monster, Multistrada, Streetfighter and Superbike.

 These authentic icons of “made in Italy” are sold in over 80 countries around the world, with concentration on the European, North-American and Asia Pacific markets. Ducati competes in both the World Superbike Championship and, with an official team, the World MotoGP Championship. In Superbike Ducati has won 17 Manufacturers' titles and 14 Riders' titles and in 2011 passed the historic milestone of 300 race victories. Ducati have participated in MotoGP since 2003, and took both the Manufacturers' and Riders' titles in 2007.

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WILLIAMS TO BUILD REPLICA JPS NORTON

JPS Norton, time to raid the piggy bank

Forty years after winning the 1973 F750 TT, Peter Williams is to build 25 replicas of his winning JPS Norton. The legendary motorcycle development engineer and former dealer who introduced the first viable cast wheels, disc brakes and beam frames to racing, has put a price tag of £65,000 on the replicas.

The engines are to be built by renowned Northampton Norton specialist Mick Hemmings, using all new parts, including Williams’ own design cams. Only four of the original JPS Nortons were built and these are now valued in excess of £250,000 which, says Williams, puts the replica price into perspective.

Williams said the project will be used to raise working capital for the development of a new model with a carbon-fibre monocoque chassis. He produced the first prototype in conjunction with Lotus and development is underway for low volume production. For more information tel 01327 220534; info@peterwilliamsmotorcycles.com

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POLARIS INDUSTRIES IS SET TO RELAUNCH WITH INDIAN CHIEF MODEL

Indian relaunch

Polaris Industries is set to relaunch the Indian motorcycle brand with an all-new 2014 Indian Chief model at the giant Sturgis bike rally in the US state of South Dakota on 3 August.

This event takes place two and a half years after Polaris acquired the most recent incarnation of this historic business from Anglo-Italian entrepreneur Stephen Julius and undertook a complete redesign of its product range. Billed with maximum hubris as “history in the making” and “a new era in American motorcycling”, unveiling will take place at the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.

The bike will then make its first European appearance a month later during European Bike Week at Faak am See in Austria, from 3–8 September. This will be followed by a more formal presentation at the EICMA trade fair in Milan on 7-10 November.

For full product information, browse www.indianmotorcycle.com

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