The BMW Club JOURNAL £2.00 September 2005 2 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 HONORARY EDITORIAL TEAM The Journal Please send all letters to Paul Nadin, Mutual Aid to Owen Vaughan, features Dave Bertram. All other correspondence or queries should September 2005 be sent to the Editor. The Official BMW Club EDITOR: CHRIS FLEMING, 58 Janes Lane, Bur- within the UK and gess Hill, West Sussex. RH15 0QR. Tel/Fax: Republic of Ireland 01444 245367. e-mail: [email protected] Affiliated to BMW Club Europa e.V SECTION NEWS & ‘COMPASS’: Please send to the Editor at present. www.bmwclub.org.uk FEATURES EDITOR : DAVE BERTRAM “Kim- General Enquiries: 0800 0854045 berley”, 4 Southcrest, West Hunsbury, Northamp- FREEPOST THE BMW CLUB ton, NN4 9UD. Tel/fax 01604 479749. e-mail: [email protected] The BMW Club is the Trading name of The B.M.W. Motorcycle Club Ltd Registered in England, Registration number 4261129 TORQUE REACTION: PAUL NADIN, 49, Berk- whose Registered Office: Charter Court, Midland Road, Hemel shire Drive, Congleton, Cheshire. CW12 1SB. Hempstead, Herts, HP2 5GE e-mail: [email protected] MUTUAL AID & SMALL BUSINESS ADS: All Rights Reserved OWEN VAUGHAN, 16 South Meadows, Pembroke, Pembs. SA71 4EW. Tel 01646 CONTENTS 683188. e-mail: [email protected] DIARY OF EVENTS: GORDON CATCHPOLE, Editorial Ramblings...... 4 Avenida de las Especias 58, Pinar de National and Section Officers...... 6 Campoverde, 03190 Pilar de la Horadada, Alicante, Spain. Tel/fax: (0034) 966762893. e- President’s Platform...... 7 mail: [email protected] Torque Reaction...... 8 COMMERCIAL DISPLAY ADS: ROB PEARCE, German Jottings ...... 40 16 Forestfield, Horsham, RH13 6DZ. Tel/fax Diary of Events...... 41 01403 754912. e-mail: [email protected] Around the Compass...... 45 TECHNICAL OFFICER: MIKE FISHWICK, Events not Organised by BMW Club...45 Sirgon, 24250 Daglan, France. e-mail: The Caption Competition...... 62 [email protected] Where We Meet...... 63 100,000 MILE AWARDS: BOB HARRISON, 251 Preston Road, Coppull. PR7 5DS. Tel: 01257 Section News...... 64 793209 e-mail:[email protected] Social and Register Secretaries...... 64 And grateful thanks to: Tony Wood for assist- Mutual Aid...... 74 ance with proof reading and sub-editing.

DISCLAIMER Features The BMW Club Journal accepts for publication articles and letters written in good faith; however, the views expressed in articles and letters which are published are not necessarily those of the editor of the Journal or those of the BMW Club or its officers or members. Trans America Record Attempt ...... 14 The information, including advice and suggested modifications published in K1200LT Starter Relay ...... 16 the The BMW Club Journal has not been approved, tested or otherwise checked by The BMW Club Journal or the BMW Club. Before acting on 25 Years of the GS ...... 20 information, advice or suggested modifications published in The BMW Club Journal you should always obtain technical advice, and if appropriate have Books Reviewed ...... 38 a professional motor-cycle engineer carry out the work for you. The BMW Club Journal and the BMW Club cannot accept liability for any A Grande J’Anus ...... 46 loss, damage or claims occurring as a result of any modifications or work or An Excellent Adventure ...... 52 other action carried out on the advice or based on the suggestions given in any article or letter published in The BMW Club Journal and (save for death PacSafe Product Review ...... 60 or personal injury arising from The BMW Club Journal’s negligence) all such liability is hereby excluded. The BMW Club Journal is published for and on behalf of the B.M.W. Motor- cycle Club Ltd. The BMW Motorcycle Club Ltd, the BMW Club Journal, It’s Editor and Officers accept no liability in respect of loss or damage occasioned directly or indirectly as a result of the publication of any advertisement in The BMW Club Journal or Web site

For problems regarding distribution of the This Months Cover : 25 years old and still Journal please first contact your Section celebrating - Dave Bertram reviews an Secretary. Should there still be a problem then impressive family history, starting on page contact the membership secretary. Their details are listed on page 6. 20.

BMW Club Journal • September 2005 3 such a long time to get the train loaded and going at Folkestone ?

Editorial These issues apart, we enjoyed ourselves seeing the sites, whizzing up and down the mountains via Freewheeling cable cars and precarious trains ( the K12LT could have managed the climbs and descents but whether I could was debateable. Especially after sampling the local brews ... ) and yes the Return Through France was characterised by regular winetastings ND THERE WAS - GARMISCH. As discussed and purchases whereupon the Editorial Wallet took Aearlier, the present Mrs Fleming ( hello dear ! ) a serious beating. And it was, of course, no more accompanied than a me and the coincidence that K12LT on an Our President extended tour subsequently of Germany managed to and France via wangle an invite Bruce to the Editorial Springsteen - Towers to sample NOT Barry some of the Manilow as a vintages that had certain been obtained, Commercial even if it was in Ads Manager the guise of a of ours business review scurrilously meeting. At least claims - and it kept him away the Munich from his digital shopping camera .... centres. And to say that she - in fact WE - were seriously underwhelmed by the 2005 Biker Party is an understatement. ITS GOOD TO BE BACK

Yes, it was good to see so many people, bikes and BIG THANK YOU to Dave Bertram and the the occasional OTT enthusiast enjoying Aeditorial team for their help in putting together themselves, and yes the atmosphere was Very last month’s Journal and my apologies for (a) Pleasant Indeed but - whisper it quietly - even with messing up my eMail forwarding system so that the evening’s Beer Tent shenanigans in full swing Dave didn’t get many of the things he should have overall it was rather dull. You could, for example received and (b) for the confusion at the printers cover the principal “sites” in less than half an hour whereby some issues sent out by the mailing house - that’s after you’d queued and paid for your lanyard were rather light in terms of pages. Investigations and badge that were given away free last year. You are continuing but it would seem that someone was could gasp in amazement at the GS’s going round “at home to Mr Cock-up” on this occasion ! and round on a gradient. You could even join one of the guided tours of the region or participate in However my extended tour of Europe revealed that the traditional motorcycle parade but you couldn’t many of us are creatures of habit ! Despite buy a BMW bike, any BMW apparel other than their reminders in three separate areas of the July zero-IQ cap and an assortment of T-shirts. Journal to send the club’s “regular” contributions to And my spies tell me while it was All Very Nice for Dave, several members - no names, no pack drills BMW to lay on a special Channel Tunnel train for - clearly hadn’t read those bits, consequently getting the World Of BMW aficionados, did it REALLY take the August Journal out on time was an acheivement

4 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 in itself as several contributions were languishing DIESEL SPILLS : 10 SEPTEMBER CAMPAIGN here in Janes Lane. PILT DIESEL IS A MENACE to anyone on two And while its very touching that so many of the club’s Swheels. It's often difficult to see until it's too members think that the Editor can solve just about late, and then it's like riding on ice. In a straight any problem that comes his way ( the present Mrs line a rider is lucky if he/she can ride over it, but on Fleming - hello dear ! - has certain rather different a roundabout or on a bend a crash is often views on the matter ), perhaps its worth reminding inevitable. everyone that we have a National Membership Secretary who manages our membership and In 2003 Stephen Edwards founded the Kill Spills subscription issues, that Section Secretaries campaign with the help of the members of a couple receive additional copies of the Journal to ensure of motorcycle related forums on the Internet. In that new or returning members are not overlooked 2004 the campaign organised a ride to Downing and that we have a Mutual Aid/Small Business Ads Street in which over 800 people took part. The manager who processes requests for club second annual Kills Spills Rally takes place on member’s items for sale. Your editor is more than Saturday 10th September. content for these noble volunteers to shoulder their burden accordingly - once again their contact details Diesel spillage has been the subject of several BMF are page 3. Please read, mark, learn and inwardly campaigns in the past, some of which have led to digest ! That said, if it really IS urgent then I will of changes in legislation and Home Office reporting course do what I can to expedite things ! procedures, but still the problem persists. Because the BMF has been involved with this subject in the past it is sponsoring this year's Kills Spills rally. THE STAFFORD SHOW

The meeting point for the ride is the Ace Cafe and As many members of the Vintage & Classic Section riders are asked to be there for 11.00am. The route will know, stalwart Malcom McNair has suffered for will take the North Circular road, heading towards some time with a bad back - so much so that he Hangar Lane. Then via the A40 to Paddington, Park has advised that he cannot run the club entry at Lane, Marble Arch, Constitution Hill, Queen Victoria the next Stafford show and he has asked for local Memorial, The Mall, Trafalgar Square, Whitehall assistance. So far there has been no response with parking along Millbank. On the return joumey, which is worrying him. Under his stewardship the the rally will leave Whitehall, go along Birdcage Club has won several awards at the show in recent Walk, ride in front of Buckingham Palace and down years. If there’s anyone who can help, local or Constitution Hill, then following the same route back otherwise, please get in touch with him. There isn’t to the Ace Cafe. that much work involved and it would be nice to carry on the tradition ! Each rider will receive a goodie bag supplied by the BMF and Bennetts Insurance. It is also hoped ANYONE SEEN THE NATIONAL SECRETARY ? that Kill Spills T-shirts will be available to purchase before the rally, with all proceeds going to the BMF Foundation fighting fund for research and road Steve Shepley has moved. His new address is safety. Tulloch Moor Tullynessle For further information look in the bike press nearer Alford to the date. Alternatively, go to the BMF (http:// Aberdeenshire www.bmf.co.uk) or Kill Spills (http:// darrenboume.co.uk/killspills/) web sites. AB33 8DD Telephone 01975 564199 Editorial Thought For The Day For September and there is no truth whatsoever in the rumour that the locals in his former abode were seen celebrating “I’m not a complete idiot, you know - there are well into the wee small hours ... several parts remaining to be fitted ...” Chris (!) BMW Club Journal • September 2005 5 National Officers & Section Secretaries

HONORARY NATIONAL OFFICERS HONORARY SECTION SECRETARIES East Anglia: CLIFF BATLEY, 46 Nemans Rd., Sudbury, PRESIDENT: TONY MOORES, 54 Lingmoor Suffolk, CO10 1UA. Tel: 01787 373919. e-mail: Drive Manor Park, BURNLEY, BB12 8UY. Tel/ [email protected] Fax: 01282 421628. e-mail: Irish: JAMES CONNOLLY, Landenstown, Sallins, [email protected] Kildare, Ireland. Tel: 0035345868638. e-mail: SECRETARY:STEVE SHEPLEY, Tulloch Moor, [email protected] Tullynessle, Alford, Aberdeenshire AB33 8DD Tel/ London: NICK FRY, 4 Newbury Close, Chancellors fax: 01975 564199. e-mail: secretary@ Road, STEVENAGE,Herts. SG1 4TE. Tel: 01438 749 bmwclub.org.uk 913. e-mail: [email protected] Mercia: RAY SMITH, 1,Parsons Close, Church Gresley, TREASURER: DEREK JOHNSON, 32 Eason Derbyshire. DE11 9NQ. Tel: 01283 551915. e-mail: Drive, Radley Park, Abingdon, Oxon OX14 3YD [email protected] Tel: 01235 532622. Fax: 01235 539689 Midland: DALE MARCHANT, 19 Maplebeck Avenue, Medenvale, Notts. NG20 9JQ. Tel: 01623 847907. e- ASSISTANT TREASURER: BRIAN CULVER, 39 mail:[email protected] Moat, Farm Close, Folkestone, Kent, CT19 5DJ North East: ANN WRAY, Hoge Veluwe, 19 Greenhills tel: 01303 226188, e-mail: Byers Green, Spennymoor, Co. Durham. DL16 7QJ. Tel: [email protected] 01388 605764 e-mail: [email protected] SOCIAL SECRETARY: GARTH FORBES, 9 Northern: BERNARD J. TAGG, 349 Tag Lane, Ingol, Conyngham Road, NORTHAMPTON, NN3 9TA. Preston. PR2.3XA. tEL: Tel: 01772.466205 E-MAIL: e-mail: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Oxford: PETER MAPES, 54 Corbett Road, Carterton, MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY: DICK BOYD, Oxon. OX18 3LE Tel: 01993 212800 e-mail: Stewart Place, Garmouth IV32 7LX. Tel: 01343 [email protected] 870389, Fax: 01343 870591. e-mail: Scottish: JASON GOODWILL, 3 Upper Burnside Court, [email protected] Thurso, Caithness. KW14 7XT. Tel: 01847893935. POST/5 TOOL HIRE SECRETARY: MIKE e-mail: [email protected] DELACOE, 4 Charwelton Road, Preston Capes, South East: BRIAN SHEARS, 100 Park Avenue, Daventry. NN11 3TA. 01327 360945. Northfleet DA11 8DL. Tel. & Fax: 01474 566142. e-mail: [email protected] PRE/5 TOOL HIRE SEC: PETER DUNN, 101Sta- Southern: GREG SMITH, 2 Claudius Gardens, tion Road, Thatcham, Berks.RG19 4QH Tel: Chandlers Ford, Hants. SO53 2NY. 02380 251146. e- 07941 075165. e-mail: [email protected] mail: [email protected] REGALIA SECRETARY: JEAN COX, 22 South West: DAVE FOX-SPENCER, Dobles Farm, Tolland, Lydeard St. Lawrence, Taunton. TA4 3PP. Tel: Combermere, Thornbury, Bristol. BS35 2ET. 01984667500. e-mail: [email protected] 01454 415358. e-mail: [email protected] Ulster: BOB BARKER, 88 Browns Bay Rd., VINTAGE & CLASSIC REGISTER SECRETARY: Islandmagee, Larne, Co., Antrim. BT40 3RX. Tel: 02890 MALCOLM McNAIR, 27 Syon Gardens, Newport 777490. e-mail: [email protected] Pagnell, Bucks, MK16 0JU Tel: 01908 216623 e- Western: RON ELMSLIE, 8 Cleeve Lawns, Downend, mail: [email protected] Bristol. BS16 6HJ. Tel no: 0117 9569209 e-mail: [email protected] SPORTING REGISTER SECRETARY: ROBERT Yorkshire: CAREL LINDLEY, 244 Shadwell Lane, BENSLEY, Oak Tree Farm, Heath Road, Banham Leeds. LS17 8AQ. Tel: 0113 266 6766. e-mail: NR16 2HS. Tel: 01953 888415 (+fax) e-mail: [email protected] [email protected] HQ Register: TONY PAINTER, 101 Gillards, Bishops SIDECAR REGISTER SECRETARY: VACANT Hull, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 5HJ. Tel: 01823253897. Fax: 08700514267. e-mail: [email protected] ASSOC. SECRETARY FOR AMERICA: BRUCE PRESTON, 0208 979 1555 e-mail: [email protected]. WEBMASTER: GREG SMITH, e-mail: [email protected] DELEGATES to other ORGANISATIONS VICE-PRESIDENTS: BRUCE PRESTON, 0208 BMF: TONY CARTMELL (BMW Club Liaison), DEREK 979 1555 e-mail: JOHNSON, JEFF DYMOND, ROD WILTSHIRE, PETER [email protected]. MAPES and DAVE BERTRAM CYNTHIA MILTON, not available at present BMW Club Europa: PETER DUNN TONY CARTMELL, 28 Houseman Place, Black- FBHVC: M McNAIR pool. FY4 5AE Tel: 01253 768421. Email: DVLA: M McNAIR [email protected]

Please restrict any calls or enquiries to these Club officials to between the hours of 10 am and 10 pm, and let the Editor know if any of these details need amendment

6 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 joined me. The couple in leathers looked very President’s uncomfortable, the girl smiling through gritted teeth trying hard to control her shaking limbs. Platform Two guys heading for home in the IOM had suffered that experience two years previously and During the first days of July, Lesley and myself now had full rain suits on, mind you their T shirts joined other club members and friends in How were sodden. As fer me, my Contur boots are Caple in Hereford for a hotel weekend organised being returned under warranty. by club VP Tony Cartmell. During the Donnington GP day, the first Power The weather was mixed and the company great Cup race in the UK was held in damp conditions. in a very scenic part of the UK. Having spent The K1200R seems to grip the imagination of race Saturday riding around local lanes, eating and fans and giving a weekly magazine journalist a socialising I asked another guest during the late VIP entry ensured print coverage. Unfortunately, afternoon how her day had gone. ‘Oh I swam ten like the Boxer Cup series before it the races don’t lengths in the pool this morning, have TV coverage. Pity there isn’t just done another ten, and I’ve a GB team racing, next year cycled twenty-six miles today.’ perhaps? was the reply…. and I felt weary! The varied interests of the The reason behind my journey guests added to the banter and south had been an invite by BMW the Saturday evening quiz with Car Club Chair Jeff Heywood to TC laying down some dubious attend one of their board rules introduced an entertaining meetings, but that’s another story. element to the evening. It was good to enjoy ‘true’ club life The initial problems experienced again. with the BMW GB marketing packs has now been resolved and During recent rides I’ve had that new bike owners are now joining rare and potentially hazardous the club. During the past three road condition in England to contend with, melting weeks a member a day has forwarded a form. If road surfaces. The signs are pretty obvious, and you were one of them welcome to the club and the cause is due to usually bearable conditions enjoy riding your new bike. namely hot summer weather! If you ride in county Durham you might have noticed gritting lorries Had to smile listening to the radio recently when spreading rock dust on affected roads to cool the a tale relating to pensioners from Somerset tar! It doesn’t half stick to wheel rims though. booking a holiday to East Anglia in local travel agents was mentioned. The young girl booking Predictably on the day Mr Rossi was earning his the trip advised them to make certain they carried keep at Donnington I also experienced the flip their passports! Mind you we do have a hard riding side of the coin riding home through flooded Sporting Section sec’ who would discourage all Cotswold roads and heading for a gridlocked M5 coach trips on his patch given the chance! / M6 which were carrying unbelievable volumes of traffic. After some miles of filtering through Safe riding Tony Moores standing traffic in torrential rain I splashed into a Editor’s footnote : The Motorcycle Action Group service area and joined the line at the food counter have been made aware that some of the country's leaving a trail of dripping water behind me. Full roads were beginning to melt in the recent heat marks to the young girl who placed a ‘wet floor’ wave. A Cumbria County Council Spokesman said: sign behind me and then mopped the floor! "A fine layer is being put down that will cling to the surface of the binder/bitumen. The crushed rock A group who had left the GP early due to the bad dust is an improvement on the melting/greasy bitumen, and is the best solution we have at this weather and dressed in assorted bike gear soon point to a difficult situation." BMW Club Journal • September 2005 7 September 5th is the Torque deadline for the October Journal. Send letters or e- mails to Paul Nadin, Reaction details on page 3. Apologies to Mick from Yorkshire connection. Is there an issue with the latest single wire electrics? Can I, through The Journal, apologise to Mick from Nigel Hirst. Bury. the Yorkshire Section for his wasted journey to South Wales. Club Meetings on the Isle of Man I advertised some panniers and frames which I wrongly thought would fit his R100. The top box The I.O.M. geographically falls within the Northern rack which joins the two frames together was fouling Section, and the Northern Section Committee would the seat so they were returned to me. be more than happy if a regular meeting of Island I have now been told that if the top box rack is members could be arranged. removed the frames for the panniers will fit any BMW with twin rear shocks. The result is that these Thus all known Club members on the Island have panniers and frames are now back on the Mutual been contacted and an inaugural meeting was Aid page. arranged for Tuesday, 16th August at a pub called The Creek in Peel. We hope this meeting was a So, sorry Mick, although it was a pleasure to meet success and a programme arranged for future you. meets. It would be nice if this group were able to Ralph Phillips. Western Section. arrange a special meet during TT week but we do not wish them to feel pressured.

GPS Performance Those resident Club members who have not been contacted, i.e. members of other Sections, please Jerry Rose’s useful letter in the last issue points keep your eye on the Events page of the Journal out the performance advantages in route re- where future meets will be published as and when calculations of the Navigator 2. Users of the details are received. Navigator/Streetpilot III might want to check that the calculation method is set correctly before Bernard Tagg. Northern Section Secretary. upgrading.

This is accessed on the unit via menu\main More about Beaulieu menu\system setup\routing\calculation method. I read with interest the letter entitled “25yrs of the There are 4 options: Quickest/Quick/Better Route/ GS at Beaulieu” by Paul Sedwards in the August Best Route. The difference in re-calculation time is issue of the Journal. startling - ‘Best Route’ can take minutes, as Jerry suggested. I find ‘Quick’ is adequate for most He remarked that, with the exception of Charlie purposes. Boorman’s Long Way Round machine, one of the Dakar-entered machines, Kevin and Julia Sanders On a similar note, the larger data storage capacity machine, and a couple of nice examples of the of the Navigator 2 is a boon. The earlier unit is R100GS-PD, the remaining machines “were very limited to 128mB per data card (£80 each). The poor. It certainly wasn’t a display of ‘prime examples new Version 7 of the mapping software uses about through these 25yrs of manufacture’”. He went on 50% more storage for the same map sets. to say that there were gleaming examples to be found in the GS campsite. “Surely these machines Can anyone advise on wiring the Navigator into the were worthy of being on display?” R1200RT, as BMW do not make a suitable The display was organised by Jim McSharry of the GSClubUK and BMW themselves. As one of the

8 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 R100GS-PD owners there, I agree that they could There was a lapse in 1995. However, Gerry and have been better displayed, perhaps outside in a Phil Davis, of the Leinster/Irish Section, were row rather than crammed in around the walls of the determined that the Assembly would not just pass BMW marquee. As for the bikes themselves, I into history. Initially through their Section and later cannot see his point. The GSs are never going to off their own bat, they continued to organise the be pristine, glitzy bikes. They are 2-wheeled Land Assembly through the period 1996 to 2000 inclusive. Rovers after all and don’t have the chrome and polished alloy of other bikes. Unfortunately that is when the Assembly did pass into history - at least to the present day. As for the shinier bikes in the campsite, Jim asked us NOT to offer our bikes for the display unless we So, is there anyone out there who wants to resurrect were prepared to leave the bikes in the marquee the Isle of Man BMW International Assembly? There for the two day period. Some riders didn’t want to is plenty of time to organise the 2006 event but, stay to the very end on Sunday and opted not to perhaps not too much time to plan the 2007 event display their bikes. Some wanted to ride their bikes when the Island will be in danger of sinking due to off site on Saturday night too. the number of people who want to be here to celebrate the Centenary of the TT - now, that will As for my bike, a R100GS Paris Dakar, I did bull up be some event! the alloy rims and even gave the Touratech panniers a bit of a polish. I heard no comments over the For those of you wondering why we are not offering state of the bikes; mind you it was like a cauldron to take on the event again, it’s still the same problem in that marquee. - TIME especially at the TT. I am now the Chief Technical Official [previously called Chief Just giving the other side of the story. Scrutineer] (at the TT and Manx Grand Prix) and Dorrie runs the Admin side of Technical Control. Paul Narramore. Aylesford. Kent. We hope we have not used up Robert Bensley’s More information re the Isle of Man Assembly allocation of brackets!!

Ralph Phillips, in his letter to Torque Reaction in Harvey and Dorrie Garton. Isle of Man [still Midland the August 2005 Journal, wondered what happened Section] {still riding boxers} (R1200RT) to the Isle of Man BMW International Assembly.

Having last visited the Isle of Man in the ‘early In Praise of the R850R eighties’ Ralph probably knows that the late Fred Secker organised the IoM Assembly for many years At last a plan is coming together. My trusty D reg - the first Assembly having been held in 1964. I K75S is being dismantled to allow for the frame moved to the Island in 1982 and, having been an and tank etc to be repainted - also a moderate active member of the Club [Midland Section] since ‘tarting up’ will occur where necessary at the same 1977, was seen as a potential local organiser of time. I can do this because I now have an R850R the Assembly. Classic (new in March) which can take me to and from work. Now, to the point of this letter. Looking back at past issues of the Journal I see that I [together with wife Dorrie] first organised the The K75S was used all the year round during the BMW International Assembly in 1984 - not without three years I have had it. Apart from the rear section problems with barbecue equipment and date bars of the frame (which is badly rusting) and the [see Torque Reaction August and October 1984]! paintwork worn thin in places and silvered, the bike has survived well. We continued to organise the Assembly with help from various Club members and others until 1991, I don’t think that the finish on the R850R is in the when I simply did not have the time to run the event same league as that of the K75S when new. as I wanted to - I had returned to Sidecar racing in Therefore, come the autumn, I should have a 1987 and raced in the TT in 1991 [but that’s another restored K75S and a nearly new R850R to choose story]. For 1991 Reg Moule took on the from for the winter months. My inclination is to use organisation, which he also did in 1992, 1993 and the K75S over the winter, but then again, if things 1994 [the 30th Anniversary]. don’t go according to plan, it might not be ready.

BMW Club Journal • September 2005 9 Or, I could be so pleased with it that I don’t want it Long Eaton Steam Rally spoiling! Just a brief note to say many many thanks to those Now, I hate to get people thinking about winter when who took part in this year’s Long Eaton Steam and it’s still the height of summer, but I would like to Vintage show, either by bringing their bike, or by know the club’s perceived wisdom for winter bike helping in other ways. A ridiculous amount of care. I have always sprayed the bike down after planning and execution is required for an event like use if there has been salt on the road. This is quite this and to have it as well supported as we did is a chore at midnight or beyond on a January night, very gratifying. as has regularly been the case. The event was an unqualified success and we have Anyway, your advice please, particularly regarding already been invited back next year for the same the R850R. Those engine and transmission parts time, the last weekend in July. A full report is on the that look so shiny and nice now look vulnerable. Midland section website http://www.bmwmcc.co.uk/ Whilst on the subject, to the correspondent who midland/eventreports.htm and hopefully it will be said that the K75S is vastly under-rated and a future printed in The Journal sometime in the future. classic – I quite agree. To the bike press who dismiss the R850R as an Martin Ellis. Midland Section. unexciting non-entity, I say you are very wrong on that one. The more I ride mine the more I like it. It’s a brilliant bike for real-life everyday riders. The Viaduct at Millau

Charles Morrish. Carnforth. I have just returned from a short camping trip in France, using the excuse of a visit to the new viaduct at Millau for a pleasant ride. New BMW Designs Not only did I find the viaduct as impressive as I enjoyed reading Martin Macrae’s letter in the expected and well worth a visit, but I discovered an August Journal, although I disagree with him that absolutely superb motorcycling road from Millau to BMW are now making racing machines that have Albi. Mostly high with open views over (presently little practicality for everyday use. I have ridden a parched) rolling country, it is just what I was always K1200S and thought it superb, besides all its (unsuccessfully) looking for in a women when I was performance attributes it was very comfortable, the young enough to know why; fast and curvaceous! mirrors excellent and you can fit panniers, tank bag, GPS etc to it with no problems. It reminded me of Incidentally, if there is anyone out there who has the old 8 and 16v K100RS.At this year’s Bikers Party not ridden in France, a word about greetings I saw many K1200S so equipped and they had all between motorcyclists might be of interest. The nod travelled long distances. This suggests a practical in this country is replaced, partly by the necessity everyday motorcycle to me - albeit a very quick one. of driving on the right, by two gestures. The first I noticed years ago when a rider overtook The new R1200ST also seems a direct, improved me and stretched out his right leg. I thought it was replacement for the excellent all round ability of the cramp, but later realised it was only to greet without R1100RS, being good for commuting, touring and removing a hand from the throttle. racing. In fact for the first time in several years BMW have produced two new motorcycles both of which The second comes in a range of four options, all I’d like to have in my garage. variations on the theme of an outstretched left hand, two fingers extended horizontally from a clenched Finally, I agree with Martin that the UK’s roads are fist, to greet a passing rider. Option one is a high not a racetrack, but I have no objection to people royal wave. This is a bit naff, except for Harley riders. owning sports bikes. The key is the riders must have Number two is the standard issue, with the arm at the self restraint to use them sensibly. This is where about bar level. Then there is the minimalist, with the rider training comes in and we as a community the two fingers raised while the hand remains on should promote this to all riders of whatever ability the bar. Finally there is the ultra-cool, from really and age, irrespective of what they ride. sporty riders, where the hand emerges discreetly Peter Dunn. Southern Section. and briefly at knee level.

10 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 In France motorcyclists are generally treated as windscreens result in mixed satellite reception. normal human beings, and car drivers are much Travelling in a Toyota Land Cruiser recently proved more likely to assist riders filtering than their the point. counterparts over here. Added to the good roads and lighter traffic levels, these are yet more reasons Steve Waring. Southern Section. for popping over the Channel whenever the continent is not cut off by fog! Honorary Membership? Peter Taylor. Western Section. Does the club ever give honorary membership to deserving personalities? If so, can I recommend Navigator 11 Plus Ewan McGregor and Charlie Boorman? This is not for their ‘Long Way Round’ journey achievement On reaching my 60th birthday recently not only did but rather for the amount of explanation they have I get my bus pass, sorry Freedom Pass, from dear saved me when telling interested people the type old Ken, the mayor, my family very kindly gave me of bike I ride. a Navigator ll Plus to make my 1150GS even more useful. A fine piece of kit this with maps and route In the past I would say “BMW R1150 GS” and would details of all Europe now contained within the unit be met with a blank look. Then I would qualify the on a 2GB flash memory card. description…”you know, the Big Traillie”….”The what?” would come the answer. Now, thanks to Unfortunately what lets it down are the handbooks Ewan and Charlie I say “you know? The bike that provided with it. Unless you wish to plan a journey Ewan McGregor went round the world on”. Then in the comfort of your own home, the manual, along they generally nod and smile and say “Wow! Nice with 2 CDs detailing maps/routes etc which you Bike”. So thanks to Ewan and Charlie. So now have to download into the old Navigator ll unit is perhaps we could persuade E & C to carry out a not really relevant as all the information is now series of highly publicized track days on a Boxer contained in the new unit. Cup Replica, to save me a lot more explanation about my other bike? The quick start guide is useful up to a point but it keeps referring to the user manual. (?) The only On a more serious note, I have two technical manual of some use is that dealing with the software questions for the readership. upgrade but still doesn’t tell you how to use the device to its full potential. Firstly, having seen the metal Mule advert for their slim line exhaust, I ask the question…”Is there a On browsing around Garmin’s web site I discovered full-sized left-hand ‘standard’ (i.e. Plastic) pannier that the basic unit for the Navigator ll Plus is the available for the 1150 GS?” Street Pilot 2660. Also on the web site is the very Secondly, I recently had an argument with a user’s manual referred to in the quick start covering retired Policeman friend about Contra Steering. You all the information needed to get the best out of the know? That strange situation where, as you enter a unit. Unfortunately it is 84 pages long (in English), bend, you actually tweak the bars in the opposite direction to the bend to instigate your turn? Well, my far too much to print out. However a quick call to friend, a police-trained biker says I’m talking rubbish. Garmin in Romsey resulted in a very kind person Will some kind expert out there please explain the sending me the manual for free. Come on BMW, phenomenon in detailed terms and help to settle a long for this price include all the manuals. running argument? Many thanks. Readers may also like to know that Motorrad dealers can supply the necessary to run the 2660 Martin Stimson. Northern Section. (without the motorcycle cradle) in a car. The 2 bits of kit consist of a heavy ‘bean bag’ with a friction base to which the unit is attached and sits on the In (Doubtful) Praise of MZs. dash board and a lead which also contains a small speaker which plugs into the cigar lighter. The 2 Nice of Super Ted to give the MZ riders club a items totalled around £60.00. It’s worth checking mention. There’s no such thing as ‘bad publicity’ if that the unit will work in your car as Rydale, Cardiff you ride an MZ - as I do! warned me that the construction of some

BMW Club Journal • September 2005 11 We (!) are a patch club – our slogans are:- Many thanks for a great day, I bumped into a lot of Real men ride MZ and we love the smell of two old friends from my BMW days, and made a load strokes in the morning. of new mates too. You were busy so I left you alone, sorry. When you see us on the road, move over or else – have you ever tried following a mobile smoke I spoke with your sporting secretary, Nigel on his screen? jacket, but that was not his name ! thin bloke from Norfolk who knew my late friend Dave Minskip. He Shock, horror, my secret is out. I ride an MZ and would like to include us on your list of invites from don’t care who knows it – and I’m an atheist. Doesn’t other owners days. I usually ride my KTM so get get much worse than this for the FCM does it? around the non Japanese bit.

Finally, this to FMC member Big Simon in Doncaster I have around four hundred names on my club list who just married – be careful, marry in haste, parent so could fill a few holes on future events of yours. at leisure. Roger Jackaman Dave Shead. Bournemouth. Could you please pass on my thanks to the organisors and members who attanded the BMW club track day at Mallory Park today.

MALLORY : ENTHUSIASTS SAY “THANKS” I managed to wangle my way in thanks to my membership of the Moto Guzzi Club GB although I First opportunity I’ve had to say many attended on my old black and Gold 1979 900SS thanks for the excellently organised day at Mallory Ducati. This was my first ever track day and first on the 21/07/05. I had a fantastic time and can’t BMW club event, and I can honestly say I have not wait for the next one. Keep up the good work. enjoyed myself so much fully clothed for years!

Alan Godfrey I was made very welcome by the BMW club Warwickshire Branch Guzzi Club members despite being on an old Italian nail and am looking forward to my next BMW club track day. Now that this event has come & gone, I just wanted to thank you for one of the most enjoyable & well Have no fear, once I have bought my BMW 1100S run track days that I’ve attended. I had such a good for everyday use I will be joining your club right away time with a really friendly bunch of people, that I (although I think I will stick to my 26 year old 60HP even contemplated selling the Triumph and buying Ducati for Mallory Park as it appears to be faster :)?) a Beemer (only for a moment). Thanks once again and if you’ve got spaces next year I’d love to know. Thanks again, keep up the good work,

Ian Hadcocks Keith Fothergill

Just wanted to drop you a quick note to say how Thought I’d drop you a quick email to say much I enjoyed the day at Mallory on Thursday last thank you for a fantastic trackday at Mallory week. I heard about the day through Herts & Beds today. IAM and think everyone that attended had a great time. Hats off to Martin Hopp and his crew for the I had a brilliant day and thought that the excellent marshalling throughout. The whole day general organisation and instructors were was very well organised and well run from start to excellent. finish – you put a lot of other track day operators to shame! I chose your day over those organised by the commercial operators as I hoped it would be a more relaxed event and this is exactly I hope to get an invite back again next year – by what I got - no pressure, a friendly group of then I might even have traded in my R1 for a people and all in all a very safe and well run K1200S!!! day. James Bryant Peter Fox (SV650S, Advanced Group) 12 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 BOLT KITS

Damien (from Motorworks) has taken over Keith Shaw Engineering now Keith has retired. They supply bolt kits for all BMWs, you just tell them the model and what bit you want to do. I bought a kit for my R100GS and it looks very shiny now. Damien can be contacted on 01529 469 047. No other connection other than a happy customer.

Tim Angus Maker Heights - the Hidden Hill

I joined the BMW club a couple of years ago. Not knowing what to expect I had some preconceptions from my longhaired and bearded rebel days of BMW Riders. These views had diminished somewhat with age. As has my hair. Always been a keen rally biker and loving the humour and antics of the average biker. I have not been disappointed. Having attended many rallies and camping weekends mainly with the Southwest section. I have met all types from all walks of life. The one thing that has not changed is the barking mad sense of humour that is unique to the true biker no mater what they ride..

The weekend at Maker Heights near Millbrook, Cornwall, was no exception. Once I found the site!! An adventure in itself!!. Ted Diva’s attempt on the

long-distance award was turned down as travelling up and down the same road can’t be counted? No matter how many times! if he didn’t have a mobile phone he would still be looking for the site. A wonderful location no entertainment was laid on with the exception of the practical class “How to service a master brake cylinder on an RS” Laid on by Nobby and Dave, this was more necessity than choice I might add.

The site warden laid on some good food at an exceptional price for those that didn’t want to cook. Facilities were clean. A good pub in the village 10 minutes walk from the site and 25 minutes back to the site (its uphill). Great views over the estuary. The weather was exceptional but that is only part of what makes a great social weekend.

SO what is the point of this letter? None really, but once in a while I have a overwhelming urge to say thanks to the member that takes the time and effort to arrange these weekends. Finding the venues arranging entertainment and ride outs. This is a time consuming and often thankless task that many of us cannot or will not do

Thanks again to Keith and all the other folk that arrange these events. On a more personal note to Andy and Fliss you make a lovely couple!!!..

David Cantrill Bristol BMW Club Journal • September 2005 13 In the tracks of the Trans the records for the Fastest Circumnavigation of the World by Motorcycle and the Trans-Americas by Americas Motorcycle. The 2005 Trans Americas Expedition Guinness World Record™ will re-trace their previous Guinness World Record™ route, giving the riders the opportunity to experience the type of challenges that they faced back in 2003, when they rode the length of this On 1 August 2005, a multi-national motorcycle Continent in only 35 days, shattering the previous team, set out from Anchorage, Alaska to achieve record by over 12 days. En route, the team will what is hoped will be a record for largest also visit the children’s charity, SOS Children’s motorcycle team to endeavour riding the length Villages, who work with abandoned and orphaned of the Americas Continent. children, a hugely worthwhile cause that Kevin & Julia have already raised tens of thousands of Not only that, the ride is the most ambitious group pounds towards. motorcycle trip ever attempted in terms of organisation and logistics, as team members from With two Guinness World Records™ under their Britain, Ireland, Germany, Australia and New belt for global endurance riding, using the BMW Zealand are aiming to get their BMW R1150GS R1150GS Adventure, Kevin & Julia’s expertise will Adventures safely through the 14 hugely diverse be crucial to steer the group through the pitfalls countries that lie between Prudhoe Bay, Alaska and that await in Latin America. The riders will face high Ushuaia, Argentina, spending five months on the altitudes, shanty towns, corrupt borders, searing road together. deserts, tropical storms and a non-stop barrage of lax Latin American road conditions, where they will Leading the way are Double Guinness World need all their wits about them. Record™ Holders for global endurance motorcycling, Kevin & Julia Sanders, who hold

Warming up in Wales ...

14 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 “In the UK, most riders worry about speed cameras. In Latin America they can’t afford them – they just let the landslides do the job instead!”

The gravel roads and high cross winds in Patagonia will also make the final thousand miles treacherous.

Joined by Paris-Dakar rider, Simon Pavey, just prior to his 2006 Dakar challenge, the team will have a welcome boost to tackle these final obstacles before rolling into Ushuaia and the end of the most southerly road in the world.

Julia in Costa Rica ...

BMW Club Journal • September 2005 15 Pre-04 K1200LT Starter Relay Replacement : Step-by-Step

F THE BIKE’S BATTERY voltage drops below a Icertain critical level then the Bosch OEM starter motor relay is prone to a peculiar and well- documented failure. An electrical arc can form between the contacts of the relay, causing them to fuse together so that the starter motor keeps on turning, even when you take your finger off the starter button. Most disconcerting when it happens! A replacement redesigned relay is readily available.

The relay is located under the tank, so its replacement requires a fair bit of fairing panel disassembly. If you are thinking about a launching a pre-emptive strike to change the relay then its Figure 2 : ... then 2 more probably best to combine this work with another project such as fitting auxiliary lights or replacing covers from the electronic box (figure 3). You will the fuel filter with an in-line external version. Despite see the starter relay in the upper section (arrow). their “integrated” appearance on the bike, a K12LT’s The top bank of relays simply slides out, xposing fairing panels can be removed relatively easily. In the back of the Motronic connector, and giving you effect you start at the radio compartment and work easy access to the starter relay (figure 4). your way down each side – as you remove one Disconnect all of the relay’s connectors. panel, other fixing screws are revealed. The service manual doesn’t give specific instructions on changing the relay so here are a few photos.

Figure 1 : 9 screws ...

Once you have disassembled the right side fairing and removed the tank, you will have access to the electronics box containing the starter relay. Make sure battery is disconnected (detach the negative lead, insulate it and tie it back). Remove all 9 screws from the electronics box (figure 1). Screw #5 is difficult to get to and screw #6 impossible, without removing the right side radiator exhaust (A). This requires removal of 2 screws (figure 2). Once the 9 screws are out, you will be able to remove both

16 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 Figure 3 : inside the electronic box Figure 5 : start trimming (careful now!) The moulded housing for the relay needs to be cut Once prepared, wipe the area clean with alcohol to allow the new one to be fitted. Although the and, when dry, stick one of the supplied foam pads instructions say to cut both vertical lugs, I onto the wall below the support (figure 6). The recommend only cutting the left hand one (figure second foam pad sticks to the cover immediately 5). The instructions say to score the plastic first in line with the relay so that it is cushioned. Connect and then snip it off using side-cutters. Instead, I the new relay as per instructions and push it into used a Dremel cutting wheel to cut vertically and place (figure 7). The right hand vertical lug comes then a cutting bit to cut horizontally. It’s a little in useful, since it gives something solid for the new awkward but easier than snipping in my opinion. relay to “push against” when you fit it. The tight coil

Figure 4: the starter relay Figure 6 : sticky foam pads go here (RHS lug retained)

BMW Club Journal • September 2005 17 Figure 8 : either “Scotchlock” ....

Figure 9 : ... or (preferably) insulated connectors to finish the job tidily.

“prongs” did not make contact with the thin wire. Consequently they cut the green wire and used “butt connections” covered with heat shrink tubing to make a better connection shown here in (figure 9).

Reconnect the bike’s battery and then check that the starter turns the motor over before further reassembly ( not forgetting that as there’s no fuel Figure 7 : new starter relay “wedged” in place connected at this point, the bike won’t start ...) of the connected wires pushes the relay firmly against this right hand lug and keeps it in position. David Mack ( from the K1200LT.net website )

Use the supplied Scotchlock connector (figure 8) Editor’s note : My thanks to David and the forum to connect the green wire from the new starter relay moderators for their permission to reproduce this to the green wire of the ABS warning relay (either article. As I hope you can see - assuming I’m getting wire). the hang of this Photoshop program , he illustrates his points rather well ! Other people have attempted to use the Scotchlok as directed in the instructions, however they found that the wire was so thin the Scotchlock’s metal

18 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 19 Report 25 years by Dave of the Bertram GS

Herbert Auriol, Paris Dakar, 1984

N SEPTEMBER 1980, in Avignon, BMW This had been developed earlier and put in presented the R80G/S to the press. This the “bottom drawer”. Now it proved perfect for IEnduro model made a grand entrance at the project to create a completely new, big the first test rides. The BMW G/S created a endurance model. new market segment, which even today, a quarter of a century after its launch, has lost Incidentally, the initial prototype was built none of its attraction. without a formal development brief and was immediately used by the test department to The birth of the GS in 1978 came during a accompany the works team in cross-country period of declining sales following nearly a motor sport events. decade of growth. The weak dollar made it difficult to sell in the USA, their chief export Cross-country tradition market and a rather conservative model policy. At the start of 1979 a new management team ROSS-COUNTRY RACING was familiar started to change things. The first model Cterritory for BMW; back in the 1920s and shown them by the development department 1930s the company had been successful in was a cross-country prototype. six-day events, and even in the fifties and sixties BMW won a whole series of titles. The Largely built from components of the R80 last three cross-country championships were combined with new parts to form an new won in the years 1970 to 1972 by Herbert motorcycle. A lighter rear end and a larger front Schek on a modified BMW R 75/5. In 1978, wheel formed the basis of its off-road when the rules allowed 4-stroke motorcycles credentials. But the real technical innovation to compete again, Laszlo Peres from BMW’s was a single sided swinging arm at the rear. test department came second in the German 20 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 European Championship 1978. Above: Lazio Perez, and right: Herbert Sheck.

Championship on a self-built 800 cc machine selling price also had to be in line with market weighing only 142 kg. This success created conditions. an appetite for more: in 1979 BMW established another works team, so that it Seeking a market position could now officially take part in cross-country competitions. The reward for this commitment APANESE MANUFACTURERS had proved was the German Championship title, won by Jthat, because of their ease of handling, Richard Schalber in 1979 and Werner Schütz endurance models could also appeal to road in 1980, and the European Championship, riders, and had triggered an “enduro wave”, which Rolf Witthöft won in 1980. especially in the USA. So there was definitely a recognisable market out there. Building a successful sports model is one thing, developing an economically viable Yet the single-cylinder motorcycles being production motorcycle presents a more far- produced in the Far East were not what BMW reaching challenge. Thus it was clear from the had in mind. They were fitted out in a very outset that the new model was not simply to spartan fashion, which may have been be a replica of the cross-country sports adequate for brief cross-country excursions machines which could only have been sold at but made riding over long distances a strain. a relatively high price to a few active sports As for taking a pillion passenger along, that riders or collectors. The new model had to was totally out of the question on extended primarily be suitable for everyday use, and the journeys.

Two shots of the R80G/S prototypes, 1979 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 21 Initial tests were promising and in January 1980 the G/S was to undergo a real-life test under the most extreme conditions: BMW’s press spokesman, Kalli Hufstadt, set off with the journalist Hans Peter Leicht on a 2,000- kilometre journey through Ecuador, riding two pre-production machines. The slogan was: “From primeval forest to eternal ice”, for during the trip the motorcycles had to prove themselves in extreme climatic and road conditions: from the heat and humidity of the Amazon basin up to an altitude of more than 5,000 metres in the rarefied atmosphere of The R80G/S 1980 the high Andean glaciers. Both men and machines emerged from this trial of strength A BMW had to look different. Typical virtues with no more than a few slight injuries. The such as comfort, long-distance suitability and development work had paid off, as had the longevity were vital. And so the idea gradually intense physical training undertaken by both materialised that cross-country viability should riders before their departure. The backroom be combined with high performance and ride boys could now get down to the fine tuning, comfort on the road. A careful study of the where their work benefited, naturally, from their market for Enduros, moreover, yielded the experience with competition motorcycles. following discovery: a mere 2 percent of the kilometres ridden were across really difficult The press is impressed terrain; 98 percent was on normal roads, unsurfaced tracks or narrow paths. Thus was HE R80 G/S was introduced to the born the idea of the comfortable, large T international press in the French city of endurance machine that is also reflected in Avignon on 1st September 1980. In under 21 its name: G/S – G for Gelände (terrain) and S months the project had been completed, and for Strasse (road) – was the. It opened up a those involved were anxious to see the gap in the market which has so far proved nigh inexhaustible. Technically sophisticated rear-wheel drive T WAS AGAINST this background that the Itop management gave the go-ahead for series production. Rüdiger Gutsche, head of chassis development, was put in charge of the project. Gutsch was – and still is today – a keen cross-country rider who in the past often attracted attention at events, riding his self- built BMWs. The focus of development was on the new single-arm rear-wheel suspension. By strengthening the mounting of the crown wheel in the rear-wheel drive it was possible to screw the road wheel directly to the final drive via a flange. It meant that changing the wheel would be as easy as on a car, but this was broaching new technical territory and the key question was whether such a design would be able to withstand heavy stress. The R80G/S Paris Dakar in Africa, 1985 22 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 reaction. Attention first focused on the there was a tremendous crush around the “Monolever”, as the single rear swinging arm BMW stand. By the end of 1981, 6,631 was called, which reduced weight by 2 kg while machines – more than twice the number torsion resistance was about 30 percent. With originally planned – had left the workshops in a dry weight of 167 kg, it was the lightest Berlin. One in every five BMW motorcycles motorcycle in the 800 cc class, and also the sold was a G/S. It meant the endurance tourer fastest with a speed of 168 km/. It had a was making a decisive contribution to BMW’s clearance of 218 mm – 50mm greater than steadily rising sales figures – and to this day, on the /7 series – and its spring travel of 200 25 years after the launch, this segment of the mm in front and 170 mm at the rear delivered market has retained its enormous importance off-road qualities to satisfy most riders. for BMW. Another result of experience in cross-country sport was the electronic ignition and – a first Success in the desert on any endurance machine – a disc brake on the front wheel. N PARALLEL with this, BMW increased its Icommitment to cross-country sport, and set But the question was, how would the press its sights on the toughest and most prestigious take to the concept of a large, long-range off-road event in the world, the Paris-Dakar endurance machine? Rally. First staged in 1979, this race covered 9,500 km. A mere 30 percent of the route lay Rarely indeed had a new model inspired on surfaced roads. In 1979 the only BMW journalists to such a variety of word-play: driver, Fenouil, retired with a technical fault. “natural boxer”, “off-road champion”, “one- In 1980 the start of the Paris-Dakar hung by a armed pathfinder”, “mountain boots for thread when the leading sponsor backed out, sprinting”, “BMW for a bit on the side”, to quote and only a whip-round among French BMW only the most piquant. Some magazines motorcycle dealers produced the necessary described it with a wink as “the best road finances at the last minute. It seemed as if motorcycle from BMW”, so impressed were they by its handling qualities. A summary of all the test rides might be: “A motorcycle for every terrain”.

On 19th September, when it was shown to the general public at the IFMA motorcycle show,

Hubert Auriol and gaston Rahier celebrating Gaston Rahier in the 1984 Paris Dakar Rahiers win in the 1984 Paris Dakar BMW Club Journal • September 2005 23 this personal financial involvement would pay only occasionally rode across country, it off: Hubert Auriol, who signed on as the mattered little whether or not “his” motorcycle second BMW France rider beside Fenouil, had proved itself in the world’s toughest rally. was in the lead after 11 stages, but in the 12th But for globetrotters who wished to visit remote he was disqualified for obtaining unauthorised civilisations on two wheels, results like that assistance. Even so, by coming fifth, Fenouil certainly counted. While BMW offered an earned a succès d’estime. The following year, extensive range of accessories for the G/S, the rally was prepared for more professionally. alongside that a second market established BMW went to the starting grid with three itself, specifically designed to meet the motorcycles prepared by HPN: Auriol was the demands of long- distance travel: this ran from first to reach Dakar, and it was he, too, who larger fuel tanks made of every imaginable was able to repeat BMW’s overall victory in 1983. In 1984 and 1985 the Belgian Gaston Rahier won the Paris-Dakar, but these would BMW’s last victories for many a year, for after the 1986 season BMW withdrew its works team. With four victories in the Paris-Dakar, BMW had given impressive proof of its off- road potential. Riding the G/S into the distance HE PUBLICITY VALUE of its successes Tin the Paris-Dakar helped to bring BMW new customers. Of course, to a road rider who A 1987 R100GS 24 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 material through luggage and navigation systems to special mudguards. Then there were numerous specialists – headed by the Dakar-seasoned HPN team – who offered conversions which adapted the motorcycle completely to the planned tours. Customers did not baulk at a purchase price that was double that of the production model. In 1984 BMW itself brought out a special “Paris-Dakar” model. A 32-litre tank with the striking Paris- Dakar logo and a single seat with a generous luggage rack gave it the outward appearance of the competition machines.

The G/S sold superbly well, yet success attracts not only admirers, but also imitators. Competitors from Japan and, later, Europe as well were now offering endurance models more specifically tailored for road use. When the first twin-cylinder models appeared on the market with capacities approaching 800 cc, it was clear, if it had not been before, that BMW could not rest on its laurels and had to defend its position. The “Paralever” N FLORENCE on 24th August 1987 the next Igeneration called the R80GS and R100GS – the oblique stroke in the typography had been dropped. With the R100GS, BMW offered the largest-engined endurance machine on the market. Yet it was not the engine, which was already sufficiently well known from the road models, that attracted attention. The frame had undergone substantial modifications, including again the rear suspension

The Monolever had attracted attention at its launch and from 1983 it was incorporated in the K series, and a year later airheads. However, not even the single swinging arm could eliminate the characteristic drive-shaft reactions. During acceleration the bike pitched forward due to expansion of the rear wheel suspension spring and plunged back when the throttle was reduced. In cross-country riding this was particularly significant, since the raising of the rear wheel when accelerating hardened the suspension, thus reducing the traction that was so critical on rough terrain. In order to remove this reaction it would have

BMW Club Journal • September 2005 25 225 mm, which guaranteed an active damping effect even on rough terrain and eliminated distortion on braking. The front brake disc was enlarged and a larger Brembo brake calliper was fitted. The wheels were of the new cross- spoke type, which made possible the use of tubeless tyres. The tank was increased to 26 litres, between the old G/S series and the Dakar. The longer and wider saddle was more comfortable and a small windshield was.

For the German market with its insurance classes and graduated driving licence regulations, BMW made a 27 hp R65GS. The R100GS Paris Dakar However, this had a brief production life of three years and 1,727. By 1996 over 45,000 been possible to lengthen the suspension arm. units were sold, more than three quarters were However, this was only a theoretical possibility, the R100GS. since to neutralise the pitching effect, it would have been necessary to lengthen the arm to In 1988 the special Dakar model was 1.7 metres. introduced. A few months previously Eddy Hau, riding an HPN-modified production GS, The new suspension arm was christened the had won the marathon rating as the best “Paralever”. This had already been tried out private rider in the Paris-Dakar Rally. in the 1950s by BMW’s former development Experience gained in this was fed into the new chief Alexander von Falkenhausen. In 1955, “GSPD”, which was modified with the following for Walter Zeller’s works racing bike, components: an 35-litre tank with a 5-litre Falkenhausen had developed and patented storage compartment, a fairing fixed with a a rear-wheel suspension arm with double joint robust tubular bracket, engine casing and and driving force support. For reasons of cost cowling, widened mudguards, and a single this solution was never put into series saddle with a large luggage rack. production and doubtless with the passage of time had been rather forgotten. In 1990, on the tenth anniversary of the GS series, updated versions of the R80GS and Three decades later, the idea was taken up. R100GS arrived. The now had a fixed cockpit The housing for the rear-wheel drive was fairing with an external tubular frame. Also new located on the suspension arm and could was the adjustable wind deflector and a rotate with it; and the reactive forces were suspension strut developed jointly with diverted into the frame through a driving force Bilstein. On the other hand, the rectangular support. The rotatability of the axle drive was headlamp and instruments on the handlebars made possible by two roller bearings in the were borrowed from the K series. These were suspension arm and a second universal joint to remain the last major changes to the second in the drive shaft. This was only 1.6 kg heavier GS generation. than the Monolever, but it was equivalent to a 1,400 mm suspension arm. This reduced the October 1991 saw the launch of a road version unwanted reactions to a minimum derived from the GS models: the R100R. BMW was reviving the tradition of the first generation The new GS also included additional of Enduro models, since in 1982 a road reinforcement for the frame and rear end, and version of the GS, the R80ST, had been put a new Marzocchi telescopic fork. Marzocchi on the market. But whereas that product had had already been involved in the works found barely 6,000 buyers in three years, the participation in the Paris-Dakar, and the result R100R generated 7,000 orders in six months. of their joint development work was a fork with The new road model with its classic, stripped- suspension play increased from 200 mm to down appearance benefited from the retro 26 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 wave in the two-wheeled market, which began So what contributed to the success of the new in the early 1990s. By the time production GS? In the GS the new engine was given ceased in 1996, over 24,000 units of the performance characteristics that gave a better R100R and the “little” R80R had been sold. torque curve and thus more pulling power. At 5,200 rpm the torque was 97 Nm (in the R 1100 RS it was 95 Nm at 5,500 rpm). Also A new dimension to whilst the RS output was 90 bhp (66 kW) the endurance GS was reduced to 80 bhp (59 kW) but had a N JANUARY 1993 came the launch of the speed of nearly 200 km/ph. IR1100RS, the R1100GS had its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 1993. At these speeds the height the R1100GS Compared to the R100GS the new model was might have been difficult to ride, but this was 65 mm higher and was 23 kg heavier– the solved by the chassis, with the engine and R1100GS. Many observers expressed doubts gearbox housing forming a single stressed as to whether a motorcycle this large could unit, an improved Paralever, and the Telelever. be all suitable for endurance touring. However The latter was a combination of the telescopic by the end of 1994, 9,500 units had been sold. fork with a leading link between the bridge of This was whilst R100GS still being marketed. the fork and the frame. For cross-country work From 1993 the single-cylinder F650 the suspension play was, of course, increased. “Funduro”, a rough-terrain entry-level Instead of 120 mm in front and 135 mm at the motorcycle was added to the range. rear, as in the RS road version, on the GS the equivalent figures were 190 mm and 200 mm.

Two disc brakes and the Telelever gave a

R1100GS ‘75 Years’ model Last of the AirHead GS’s the R80GS Basic BMW Club Journal • September 2005 27 in 1988, a jubilee model appeared with special paintwork and luxurious accessories. In September 1998 the R850GS was. It developed 70 bhp (52 kW), but was also available in a downrated 34 bhp (24 kW) version for first-time driving licence holders. The BMW R850GS was only produced for three years, and in 2000 it was replaced in the range by the F650GS. Historic triumph in the desert ACK IN 1998 BMW had celebrated a Bcomeback in cross-country sport when, Handover of the last R80GS Basic to BMW after a gap of 13 years, it again entered a works team for the Paris-Dakar Rally. The four- basis for the introduction of anti- locking man team were on single-cylinder motorcycles braking. So this was offered as an. This could based on the F 650. Their expectations were be deactivated for cross-country riding, where deliberately modest: the main objective was locking wheels could sometimes be desirable. to finish the course. But the results A three-way catalyst was also available as an nevertheless proved disappointing, with a extra until 1995 when it became mere 35th place and three retirements. The following year the factory focused its attention Farewell to the twin-valve on durability. The major competition came Boxer from Austria: 75 riders, a nine man works SIDE FROM THE EUPHORIA Asurrounding the success of the new generation of Boxer engines, the end of the old air-cooled, twin-cylinder horizontally- opposed engine was being heralded. Since 1923 this engine design had been inseparably linked with BMW motorcycles, but could no longer meet the restrictive legislation on noise and exhaust emissions. So in 1994 a Classic Edition in elegant black with silver transfers, was made until January 1996. At that point the era of BMW’s twin-valve Enduro models appeared to have finally come to an end. Yet BMW went back to work and produced the R80GS Basic. With its 19.5-litre tank and white paintwork it was outwardly reminiscent of the Richard Sainct in the 1999 Rallye Granada original G/S of 1980, albeit fitted with the Dakar Paralever technology of the second generation. Over 3,000 units left the Berlin team, on KTMs with 12 trucks to provide factory, the last R80GS Basic and thus the servicing facilities. The small BMW with last of BMW’s twin-valve Boxer-engined Richard Sainct, who had only joined the team machines came off the line on 19th December in 1999, won the motorcycle rating to give 1996. The motorcycle with the chassis number BMW its fifth victory. All four of BMW’s starters 0267503 was handed over in a formal completed the course, proof of the reliability. ceremony to the BMW Mobile Tradition. In 2000 BMW entered six motorcycles: four On the 75th anniversary of BMW motorcycles single-cylinder models and two Boxers. The 28 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 29 Oscar Gallardo on a R1100GS/RR in the 1999 Richard Sainct 2000 Paris Dakar Cairo Rallye Tunesien two R900RRs had been built by HPN, and their modifications were those to the four-valve high-revving 900 cc power unit developed 90 engine. BMW had fitted digital electronics for bhp at 8,200 rpm. That year BMW celebrated the ignition and fuel injection – the old F650 a historic triumph in Dakar when not only still had carburettors. The F650GS was also Richard Sainct managed to repeat his the first single-cylinder motorcycle to come success, but BMW also took 2nd, 3rd and 4th with a three-way catalyst. places. Between three single-cylinder models Jimmy Lewis had ridden his Boxer into third There were two variants: the F650Dakar and position. the basic model. Apart from the special paintwork, the Dakar’s had hand protectors The F 650 GS and windshield, of the kind seen on competition machines. The chassis was ITH THE F650GS introduced in January adapted with the suspension increased to 210 W 2000, this victory was still fresh in mm at both ends (as opposed to 170 mm front people’s minds giving an additional boost to and 165 mm rear on the F650GS). The 19- the launch in Malaga, which coincided with inch front wheel was replaced by a 21-inch the arrival of the Dakar convoy in Cairo. In its one giving the “Dakar” 45 mm additional styling the F650GS leaned heavily on the clearance. The concept of the “small” Enduro design of the Boxer-powered Enduro models, caught on, by the end of 2000 over 18,000 but under the fairing was a complete reworking F650GS units had been manufactured. of the F650 “Funduro”. The most important

30 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 John Deacon R900RR Paris Dakar Rally 2001 Team Gauloises R1150GS/RR for the 2000 Paris Dakar Kairo Ralley

After six years with over 40,000 sales, the with the EVO brake introduced 12 months R1100GS was replaced by the R1150GS. previously, and as an option BMW offered the Output was increased by 5 bhp, in the range integral ABS anti-locking system in a partially between 3,000 and 6,500 rpm torque was integrated version. As on all GS models the consistently in excess of 90 Nm, which gave system could be de-activated. the R 1150 GS superior acceleration, and a 6-speed gearbox; the sixth gear as an The engine was a R1150GS also suitable for overdrive, for greater comfort and low fuel normal-grade petrol meeting a request from consumption at high speeds. From 2001 the many long-distance travellers. For this the sixth gear could also be ordered in a sports rider required an encoding plug which ratio. activated a modified ignition map. As a special option it was possible to order an extremely For globetrotters a new model in the spring of high-ratio first gear for riding over difficult 2002 named the R1150GS Adventure offered terrain. The sixth gear was no longer an a range of special equipment and accessories, overdrive on production models but was also but also modified the standard features. The set at a higher ratio. suspension play was enlarged by 20 mm on each wheel. On the rear wheel a Showa Further modifications were to enhance the suspension strut with travel-dependent rider comfort: the windshield and front damping was used. The front wheel was fitted

R1150GS R1150GS Adventure ‘25 year GS’ model BMW Club Journal • September 2005 31 32 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 mudguard were lengthened and widened. The of 30 kg over the R1150GS. protection under the engine was also strengthened and in place of the 22-litre fuel With a capacity of 1200 cc the Boxer engine tank, customers could opt for 30 litres one. is once again the largest ever fitted in an There was a large cylinder protection bracket, endurance machine. For more details either a headlamp protective grille, and a fog lamp, look at our review last year or nip into a also with a protective grille. showroom. Whilst the Adventure is still in the range, the The coming of the HP2 R1150GS was replaced in 2004 by the R1200GS with its weight of 225 kg, a saving N APRIL 2005, the “BMW HP2” arrived,”HP” Istands for “high performance” and the “2” indicates the flat-twin engine.

With the HP2 BMW has freed a generally marketed motorcycle from the design constraints of mass production. True to the motto “by professional enthusiasts for professional enthusiasts”, a dedicated team of engineers and mechanics, all of them mad about endurance riding, have developed a vehicle for purists which is nonetheless equipped with technically sophisticated features. The HP2 is to be only the first of an new category of motorcycle. Though HP R1200GS motorcycles will make use of production

BMW Club Journal • September 2005 33 models as a basis, they will set themselves exhaust system and make it 2 kg lighter. apart from them through an uncompromising interpretation of their purpose, a consistent The chassis has been developed entirely from orientation towards sport, and a range of scratch, using 25 years’ experience of exclusive features (and probably price too. endurance riding and the knowledge gained in the North African desert with the R900RR For the HP2 while based on the R1200GS with between 1999 and 2001. The layout of the the engine and on-board electrics, almost all space frame is closely modelled on the components will be newly developed or at R900RR. Front wheel suspension is provided least modified. In addition, an extensive test by a telescopic fork, since for a suspension programme was designed which, in addition play of 270 mm the Telelever design doesn’t to the usual test-bed running and drives on make sense. The fork, with a stanchion BMW’s testing grounds, included trials in diameter of 45 mm, has travel-dependent extremely hot or cold countries, autobahn runs damping; the pull and push stages can be at full throttle, and participation in the Baja adjusted separately. The principle of the California rally. Paralever swinging arm on the rear wheel has been retained, though newly designed for the The result is an Enduro with a kerb weight of HP2: the new Paralever – 30 mm longer than 175 kg. Compared with the R1200GS, engine in the GS – is a welded construction of high- output has been modestly increased to 105 strength, forged light-alloy shells, which will bhp (77 kW), though not at the expense of stand up to the toughest cross-country torque. Since the HP2 is chiefly designed for conditions. The suspension strut on the rear cross-country sports use, the engine has to wheel is a first in motorcycle construction: a do without a counterbalanced crankshaft for fully pneumatic spring-damping system. reasons of weight and as the HP2 has no luggage space, it was possible to shorten the The front brake – a “semi-floating” single-disc brake with a thickness of only 4.5 mm – is a new development. The rear-wheel single-disc brake has been adopted from the GS. For the cross-spoke wheels measuring 1.85"x 21 (front) and 2.5"x 17 (rear) BMW developed, jointly with the Metzeler company, a new tubeless high-performance cross-country tyre. As a special accessory for the predominantly off-road rider, a motocross style of tyre with a high proportion of negative profile is offered. This too arose from the cooperation between BMW and Metzeler.

The design of the tank, saddle and controls has been restricted to essentials and is adapted to the ergonomic needs of endurance riding, where the rider spends a lot of time standing up. The 13-litre fuel tank of semi- transparent and knock-proof plastic is completely new. It is bedded between the upper frame tubes and covered with a light plastic shield. The tank area and saddle are given a particularly slim shape. There are numerous innovations in points of detail that might hardly be noticed, such as the foot-brake pedal, which can be adapted without tools to the position of the foot by means of a collapsible spacer. 34 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 2005 – Simon Pavey, F650GS – finished in Jimmy Lewis at full speed on rough terrain with 78th position the HP2 Guinness World Record breaker The high-quality materials, and the comparatively low production volume have Kevin and Julia Sanders have broken two had an impact on pricing: the basic HP2 will Guinness World Records. In 2002 the duo have a price tag of around 16,000 euros when smashed the World Record for the Fastest it reaches showrooms in autumn 2005. Even Circumnavigation of the World by Motorcycle, before its launch on the market, top taking 12.5 days off the previous record. The international riders have put it on the starting couple averaged riding 1,000 miles a day and line at various races in Europe and the USA. rode 19,461 miles in just 19.5 days. GS achievements Then in 2003, the Sanders’ broke another Guinness World Record for riding The Trans- DAKAR SUCCESSES Americas by Motorcycle. This was the ultimate endurance ride through North, Central and South 1981 – Hubert Auriol, R80G/S – winner America. The journey started at Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, USA, deep in the Arctic Circle and 1983 – Hubert Auriol, R80G/S – winner finished in Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego in Argentina – the southernmost city in the world. The duo 1984 – Gaston Rahier, R80G/S – winner rode two-up for 17,000 miles, through extreme conditions in just 35 days. Beating the current 1985 – Gaston Rahier, R80G/S – winner record by over 12 days.

2000 – Richard Sainct, F650RR –winner

2000 – Oscar Gallardo, F650RR – second

2000 – Jimmy Lewis, R900RR – third

2000 – Jean Brucy, F650RR – fourth

2001 – John Deacon, R900RR – sixth

2001 –Andrea Mayer, F650RR – Ladies’ Cup

2003 – Nick Plumb, F650GS – finished in 65th position BMW Club Journal • September 2005 35 Awards - The R1150GS Adventure won the 2003 Bike of the Year award in The Sun newspaper.

- The R1200GS won Gold in the Industrial Design Society of America’s 2004 IDEA (International Design Excellence Awards).

- The R1200GS was named the Best Open Class Streetbike for its emphasis on comfort, versatility and real-world usability, by American magazine Cycle World. The HP2 - At only six months old, the R1200GS was the best-selling motorcycle over 1,000cc at - The R1200GS won the MCN Best Trailie March 2005 in the UK. Award in 2004.

36 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 37 Book Reviews

Motorcycles from an all-time high. During 1969 Technical Director Helmut Berlin Werner Bönsch, although a motorcycle enthusiast, summed up the position: ‘From a Review by Mike Fishwick purely economic point of view, we have no need to build motorcycles.’ Bönsch, however, As the sequel to convinced his fellow board members to ‘Motorcycles From convert the old ex-BRAMO factory in Berlin Munich,’ this book into a modern motorcycle factory, producing covers the period the ‘Five’ Series; the rest is history. from 1969 to 1998. This was perhaps The production of air-cooled twins, from /5 the most dramatic Series to Monolever models, is well covered phase in the story in this book, with a chapter on BMW’s of BMW successful involvement in the Paris-Dakar motorcycles, Rally. Other sections cover the F650, the K- starting at a time Series and the oil-cooled twins, the R1200C, when sales had K1200RS, and the introduction of the C1. fallen to an all-time Specification tables cover each major model, low, and ending at production and sales statistics, and a historical overview.

As usual, BMW Mobile Tradition has produced a beautifully presented book, which as the latest (number 4) in their ‘Profiles’ series, sets a standard which others will fail to equal. The text is not only informative and accurate, but is also brutally honest, as a book which will become a historical document must be. The R80ST is described as ‘A flop’ while the R65GS is described as having ‘The smallest (production) run since the ill-fated R50S.’

The quality of the photographs is excellent, as is the vast change in the attitude towards motorcycling which they show, ranging from ‘Motor Cycle’ tester Vic Willoughby riding an R75/5 in 1969 to the more casual style of today’s business-suited C1 rider. I must confess to preferring the tidy riding style and correct dress favoured by ‘real’ riders such as Willoughby!

In one or two places the translation leaves a little to be desired, with ‘capacity’ used in place of ‘power’ and one or two other easily- identifiable errors, but in general this is a pleasant book to read, although I finished it

38 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 with a vague feeling of disappointment. Perhaps it is inevitable that this book, as a product dealing with the current age, carries a flavour of the marketing-led ethos of the present, rather than the more engineering-led attitude of the past, which is reflected in its companion volume ‘Motorcycles from Munich’. Perhaps this is as it should be, for the story of BMW motorcycles is more than a simple list of machinery – it reflects the political, social, economic and business attitudes which combined to shape the products.

Whatever your views on such matters, this book is one which all students of BMW’s history will want to buy.

(Motorcycles From Berlin, 1969 to 1998, by BMW Mobile Tradition. BMW Part no: 01 09 0 035281. £30 (VAT exempt) from your dealer or David Leake at Waldich Motor Books 01308-867172) AMA Ride Guide to America Edited by Greg Harrison eight day trips for each region, a total of 35 in Review by Dave Bertram all. The mieages for each route are between This 290 page book covers a series of short 120 and 250 miles or there abouts. Each day trips around recommended route is brought to life with America. You can plenty of full-color photos of the attractions ignore the first few along the way—scenic vistas, oddities, and pages on road must-see places. Topographical maps show safety and what a the highs and lows of each ride and easy-to- pannier box or follow point-to-point directions project saddle bag is and distances and keep you on track with just a down to the real glance. purpose of the book on page 30. All of the trips are designed to accommodate various riding styles, from sightseeing two-up They have split travellers to sport riders. America into five regions: the Whilst there are not probably enough trips in Northeast, the any one area to fill a complete holiday what Mid-Atlantic, the this book does is give you a taste of each area. South, the Rocky You can then get guides to that particular area. Mountains, and the West. Each region has a travelogue of the Published by Whitehorse Press area giving an excellent insight to its [www.whitehorsepress.com] ISBN 1-884313- geography, scenery etc. 51-5.

There are then details of between five and BMW Club Journal • September 2005 39 German Jottings by John Bentall

Motorrad Issue 14/2005 tested the dead. On the other hand, the Benelli’s radial brakes BMW K1200R against the Triumph Speed Triple, bite with such ferocity that only two fingers are MV Agusta Brutale, and Benelli TNT1130. required in most circumstances. The other two bikes strike a happier medium in the braking The BMW is the heaviest bike by some department. 25kg at 247 kg but is the most comprehensively Back on the motorway the K1200R and equipped with its little fairing and heated grips. The TNT1130 track straight and true, whereas the MV BMW is not happiest in town - due to its apparent is prone to a little shimmy and the Triumph is worse mass, it seems to take unexpected sharp still. The current crop of K-series engines are much directional changes as if under the influence of a less thirsty than hitherto. The MV guzzles fuel as obstructive steering damper, making “squares” out heavily as its smaller 750 sibling – a trait that afflicts of roundabouts. In fairness, this heaviness the Benelli as well if driven hard. disappears with speed but marked contrast the The overall victory goes to the BMW by gear-change became more awkward and louder a large margin - not because of any demonstrably as the test progressed. The engagement of first superior performance figures or handling - but by gear at the lights is accompanied by a loud crunch virtue of its equipment (i.e. ABS & ESA), fuel range, and every subsequent gear-change by a clonk. comfort, potential for two-up riding and overall This is annoying because the strong effects of the practicality. torque reaction can upset the line through a corner. The “long-term test” BMW 1200GS has visited the workshop at 38,000 km due to a bearing The MV is extremely responsive at low failure in the gearbox countershaft. The outer ring speed and the Triumph and Benelli lie in between. of the bearing was broken, the bearing cage The Benelli positively erupts from the traffic lights pulverised and the inner ring showed heavy pitting. as its power and torque up to 8,000 rpm exceeds The teeth of the neighbouring first gear had been that of the BMW. Outside the city limit the handling chewed by the escaping balls. BMW uses bearings of the BMW improves and it is rock steady at from the Polish manufacturer NSK that are sealed speed. The seat is the most comfortable – and on both sides with rubber rings, designed to protect pillions are welcome – and the ESA helps adjust the surfaces from particles rubbed from the flanks the ride to the prevailing road surface. The Duo- of the gear teeth. The strip-down also revealed lever and the comfortable cannot compensate for that a circlip next to the corresponding output gear the slight loss of feedback compared to the had been forced off the shaft, probably due to some conventionally spring bikes. very high peak axial loads. BMW believe that the first fault caused the second and maintain that this On the track the testers find it harder to is an isolated event, even if there are not that many identify the BMW’s limits of adhesion, whereas the other 1200’s with a similar mileage. Benelli transmits this information most clearly. The MV is fine for riders up to 1.75m tall beyond which there is not enough room on the bike to move around in the saddle and hang off. The Triumph likes a relaxed touch to powering through the corners and its screaming engines races round to the red line so quickly that its pays to keep an eye on the rev-limiter warning lights. The brakes on all the machines exhibited no weaknesses at the track but there are large differences in the way brake pressure isapplied. The BMW is not as sensitive to the lever as earlier incarnations of the servo- assisted integral ABS, but is it good to feed in the brakes gradually as the initial movement is a little

40 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 Diary of Events - September 05

These activities have been arranged as agent for and on behalf of The BMW Club Northern 9:30am Midweek Run meet 1 N.East Lucky Few. A1 Bowburn / Durham Tesco Car park, Clayton by-pass, Services, 9.30 for 10.00 a.m. Start. Congleton, Paul Nadin 01260 Mike Wray, 01388 605764. 279443. Oxford Natter night, George & Dragon, S.East Photo Competition at ‘Riano’s’, Erlestoke, Wilts 7.00pm. Maidstone. 8pm. Yorkshire Yorkshire Challenge for details S.West 1930 hrs. Fish & Chip Night. Steve Stout 01405 839848 Meet at Minehead sea front 2 Northern 8pm The Briars Hall Hotel, Vera opposite the steam railway Hunt, 01257 464429. station. Chris & Sylv Crocker. 2-4 Northern Graham Arms Hotel Weekend 01884 252759. Derek Irving 01524 770862. Southern 12.00 Station Cafe, Alton. “Old 3 Midland Sleaford Show. Bill Rodgers Gits Run”. 01526 834480 Ulster Wednesday Evening Run - Meet 4 E.Anglia The Crossways Inn, Scole, at Corr’s Corner 7.00 pm Norfolk, 12 00 Western Natter Night at The Codrington Irish Limerick (joint run with the Arms, Codrington at 7.30pm Adare group) Meet at Texaco Brian Harrison. Station beside Parkway 11.00 am 8 Mercia Cross & Bowling Green, Branson - Peter Deevy 087 2570855 Cross 7:30pm N.East Richmondshire Ramble. Scotch Midland Green Dragon at Oxton. Evening Corner Services.10.00 a.m.start. pub meet 7.30pm. Phil Knight,01325 484288. Southern 20.00 The Spread Eagle. Northern 8am Breakfast Run: Meet Tesco Yorkshire 8p.m. Triton Inn Brantingham J34 M6 Peter McCombie 01228 North Humberside 594792. 9 S.East The Green Man, Ringmer. 8pm. S.East The Narrow Minded Run. Depart 9-11 E.Anglia Hotel/camping/YHA, Swallow 10am from lay-by on A20 at Jct Falls, Betws-y-Coed, N. Wales. with M26. (Roger Bickerstaffe 9-11 Midland Camping Weekend, Greetham, 01322 554127). Rutland. Gilbert Thomas on Western Brecon Beacons Mountain Centre. 01572 812734 12 Noon in Car Park. Picnic or eat 9-11 N.East 9th Annual Camping Weekend, in café. Ride out after lunch. Jim Waren Caravan Park, Bamburgh. Beach 02920 530200. Details from Tony Seed, 01642 Western Worcester Group Ride-out. Meet 785880 or Graham Walker, New Inn, Claines, Worcs. 09:00 01207 528426. Bob Dunn. 01384 390344 9-11 S.West The Rabbit Rally. See Around Yorkshire 12 noon The Village Hall Cracoe The Compass. On the B6265 between Skipton 11 E.Anglia The Chequers, Wimbotsham, and Grassington Norfolk, 12 00 S.West 1930 hrs. Natter Night. Jamaica Irish Leinster Section BBQ sponsored Inn, Bolventor. by BMW Motorad Michael Ganly Scottish Natter Night at the Meldrums 087 2578136 email: Hotel, Ceres, 19.30 [email protected] Scottish Natter Night at Gairdener’s Arms, Mercia Repton 12:00 232 Paisley Road, Glasgow,19.30 Northern 2pm Section Gathering at Hale 6 Mercia Four Counties Inn, No Mans Barns – Bring and Buy Anything! Heath 7:30pm Oxford Ride out : National Space Midland The Fox at Ropsley Evening pub Centre, James Luck 01296 meet 7.30pm 714770 Southern Speedway.Park your bike at S.East Ride with Rod. Depart 9.30am Portsmouth and catch 18.00 hrs. from lay-by on A20 at Jct with fast Cat to Ryde IOW. Nigel Page M26. (Rod 0208 689 8046). 01730 817782. Scottish Sunday Bar Lunch at the Log Ulster Club Meeting-Corr’s Corner 8.00 Cabin Hotel, Kirkmichael. 12.30 Western New Inn, Claines, Worcs. 19:30 Southern Run to The Fox Talbot 7 N.East Belmont Community Centre, Photographic Museum Lacock 7.30 p.m. Kieth Roberts from St. Abbey, Nr Devizes. Meet at Lily John Ambulance shows us what Langtry’s café Stockbridge 10.45 every biker should be able to do. Richard Tavener 01252 838384.

BMW Club Journal • September 2005 41 Ulster Hurst Run - Meet Hurst’s BMW Yorkshire Ride out Meet Scotch Corner lay- Motorrad Centre, Mallusk 9.30 by 9.30 for 10.00 Harry 01642 am for 10.00 am 781202 Western Brockweir Meeting. 14:00 hrs. 19 S.West 19.30 hrs. Natter Night. The Yorkshire 12 noon White Swan Blyth Globe, Sampford Peverell. 13 London The Old Guinea, Ridge,8:00 pm. 19-26 Southern Swiss Tour. Alan Steed Tel. Oxford Natter night, Waggon and Horses, 01243 862261. Southmoor 7.30 pm. 20 Midland Queens Arms, Orlingbury. Southern 20.00 Phoenix/Saddlers Arms. Evening pub meet 7.30 pm 14 E.Anglia The Wheatsheaf, Exning, Midland Park Hall Tavern, Mansfield Newmarket, 19 00 Woodhouse. Pub meet 7.30 pm Mercia Bull & Swan Inn, Diseworth 7:30 21 N.East The Waggon nr. Ponteland. Ulster Wednesday Evening Run - Meet Informal Club Meet at 7.30 p.m. at Corr’s Corner 7.00 pm S.East Club Night at ‘Riano’s’, 15 Mercia The Bull & Butcher, Corley Moor Maidstone. 8pm. 7:30pm S.West 19.30hrs. Fish & Chip Night. Midland Kings Head, Tealby Evening pub Meet at Paignton Harbour and meet 7.30 pm walk along the sea front to Southern 20.00 True Lovers Knot. Squires Restaurant, adjacent to 16 Northern 8pm The Glory, Alan Stretton, cinema complex, for supper. 01706 656606. Keith Hackett 01803 527760. 16-18 London Hotel weekend in The Malvern Ulster Wednesday Evening Run - Meet Hills. Mick Miles for details. at Corr’s Corner 7.00 pm 16-18 Scottish Scottish Bunkhouse Weekend, 22 Mercia Whipping Stocks, Nr Knutsford Elphin. Alan Crawford, 01334 7:30pm 653152. Northern 8pm The Whipping Stocks, Mal 16-19 Irish Leinster Trip to Scotland. Michael Ganly 4945871. email: Wagstaff, 0161 747 4443. [email protected] Southern 20.00 The Spread Eagle. 17-18 Southern Camping at the Merry Harrier 22-25 Midland France. Hotel Weekend. Gilbert Hambledon. Nigel Page 01730 Thomas 01572 812734. 817782. 23-26 Irish Thatch Rally Bundoran, Co Donegal 18 E.Anglia The Shoulder of Mutton, A1124 Bookings: Claire Mullen. 071 Fordham, Essex, 12:00 9170887 [email protected] Mercia Ian McNaughton’s run The Deep, 25 E.Anglia Ride Out TBA [looking for a ride meet 10:30 Macdonald’s, Markeaton roundabout, Derby. leader] Midland Brunch Run Destination Mercia Maurice Somerville’s run to Carsington Reservoir Ashbourne Derbyshire Ludlow. Meet Motorcycle Depart 9am from little Chef at Colsterworth Museum 10:00. Services A1/A151 route via Melton Northern 9am Cosford Air Museum meet Mowbray to Donnington services jnct 24 Tesco Car park Crewe, Vincent M1 for approx. pick up and depart 10.15. Quinn, 01270 650364. Midland Classic Show, Beaumanor Hall, S.East The Bull, East Farleigh. 12 noon. Leics. Bill Rodgers on 01526 834480 Scottish Sunday Bar Lunch at the S.East Crossness Engines Run. Depart Hopeville Social Club, Harlaw 10am from lay-by on A20 at Jct Road, Inverurie. 12.30 with M26. (Paul Ashby 01322 Scottish Sunday Bar Lunch at the Crook 409432). Inn, North of Moffat on A701 Ulster Tommy Atkinson’s Breakfast Run. Southern 10.00 Breakfast run to Shoreham Meet at Corr’s Corner Airport Flying Club. Western Skittles Match with the Moto Irish Vintage & Classic Event. 11.30am at ‘The Maltings’ in Birr, Co.Offlay, Guzzi Club at The Globe Inn, Eire. Lunch is available from 12.30pm. A Somerton- 12 noon. main course in the bar will cost 9.95 Euros 26 London Ace cafe, 8:00 pm. and a full course in the dining room 18.95 Northern 7:30pm The Haraby Inn, JohnBell, Euros. All lunches must be pre-booked. 01228 535173. Willy Swayne 00353 50231602 (Home) or S.West 09.30 hrs. Mystery Tour with Helen 00353 50230587 (Work). All Club members & John. Meet at Moto Exeter are welcome. Western Withey’s Walkabout, Meet 10:30 Service for a 10.00 start Little Chef, Farrington Gurney on Helen Beer 01395 443246. A37 South of Bristol. Ride to 27 Oxford Natter night, Dog & Partridge, start of walk. Arthur and Marg. Riseley, nr Reading 8.00pm. 01179 778295

42 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 Southern 20.00 Phoenix/Saddlers Arms. 7 Northern 8pm The Briars Hall Hotel, Vera Yorkshire 20.00 Conservative Club Hunt, 01257 464429. Gildersome 8 Mercia Section AGM. 28 E.Anglia The Compasses, Littley Green, Southern 09.30 Clay Pigeon Shoot. Meet Essex, 19 00 Newlands Corner. Richard Evans Mercia The Chetwynd Arms, Brocton 7:30 01372 378196 Booking essential. Mercia Four Counties Inn, No Mans Heath 9 E.Anglia The Chequers, Wimbotsham, 12:00 noon Norfolk, 12 00. Ulster Wednesday Evening Run - Meet E.Anglia Section AGM, Fornham St Martin, at Corr’s Corner 7.00 pm Village Hall, 11 00. 29 N.East Jackson’s Wharf at Hartlepool Irish Leinster– Sunday Run 10.30 am – A Historic Quays. Informal Club McDonald (01) 2865471. Meet at 7.30 p.m. London Section AGM, 2:00 pm at Newgate S.East The Wagon & Horses, Charing.8pm. Street Village Hall. 30-2 Scottish Glencoe Camping Weekend. Steve Midland Greetham Community Centre. 01796 472551 A.G.M Coffee and biscuits at 10am. Hot snacks at 1pm. Gilbert Thomas 01572 812734. Northern 2pm Section AGM at Hale Barns. OCTOBER Oxford Indoor meeting, Uffington village hall, 2.00pm. S.West 1030 hrs. Ride Over Exmoor To 1-2 Scottish Glencoe Camping Weekend. Steve Lynton. Meet at Safeway/Morrisons 01796 472551. Car Park, Kennedy Way Tiverton. 2 E.Anglia The Crossways Inn, Scole, Norfolk, Lunch stop in Lynton before 12 00. returning to Tiverton via Lynmouth, Midland A5 Rangers Cycle Club House, Porlock, Simonsbath and Wheddon Towcester Snacks 12 -3pm. Cross. Chris or Sylv Crocker. Tel. S.East Coastal Capers. Depart 10am 01884 252759. Godstone Duck Pond. Just off M25 Scottish Section AGM and lunch, Log Cabin, Jct 6. (John Smith 01322 342320). Kirkmichael, 12.30. Western Mendips Meander. 11:30hrs. Western Section AGM. Brockweir Meeting. Burrington Coombe Garden Centre 14:00 hrs. café. B134 just south of junction Yorkshire 12 noon - White Swan Blyth. with A368 near Churchill. Ride after 10 Yorkshire 8pm Triton Inn Brantingham North lunch. Arthur Withey 01117977 Humberside. 8295. 11 London The Old Guinea, Ridge, 8:00 pm. Yorkshire 12 Noon - The Village Hall Cracoe Oxford Natter night, Waggon and Horses, on the B6265 between Skipton and Southmoor 7.30 pm. Grassington. Southern 20:00 Phoenix/Saddlers Arms. 3 Scottish Monday Natter Night at the 12 Mercia Bull & Swan Inn, Diseworth Meldrums Hotel, Ceres, 19.30. 7:30pm. Scottish Monday Natter Night at Gairdener’s 13 Mercia Cross & Bowling Green, Branson Arms, 232 Paisley Road, Glasgow, Cross 7:30pm. G11. 19.30. Midland Green Dragon at Oxton. Evening 4 Mercia Four Counties Inn, No Mans Heath pub meet 7.30pm. 7:30pm. 14 S.East The Green Man, Ringmer. 8pm. Midland The Fox at Ropsley Evening pub 14-16 Midland North York’s Moors Hotel Weekend. meet 7.30pm. Go back in time to the era WWII. Ulster Section AGM - Corr’s Corner 8.00 Bill Rodgers for details 01526 Western New Inn, Claines, Worcs. 19:30hrs. 834480 Early booking is essential. 5 N.East Belmont Community Centre, 7.30 16 E.Anglia The Shoulder of Mutton, A1124 p.m. Section AGM followed by Fordham, Essex, 12:00. Natter, Niggles and Nosh. Irish Limerick Meet at Texaco Station Northern 9:30am Midweek Run meet Tesco beside Parkway 11.00 am - Peter Clayton by-pass, Congleton, Paul Deevy 087 2570855. Nadin 01260 279443. London The ever popular Cotswolds Run, S.East Section AGM at ‘Riano’s’, 09:30 am from the Services A41 Maidstone. 8.15pm. Hemel Hempstead bypass. Southern Station Cafe, Alton. “Old Gits Run”. N.East West to Weardale. Depart 10.00 a.m. Western Natter Night at The Codrington Wynyard Services on A19/A689. Arms, Codrington at 7.30pm Brian Mike Rowe, 01429 279821. Harrison. 01594 530264. S.East Dave’s Day Out. Depart 10.30am 6 Oxford Natter night, George & Dragon, Little Chef A20 Charing. (Dave Erlestoke, Wilts 7.00pm. Deacon 01580 892375). Southern The Spread Eagle. Western Cotswold Motor Museum. Bourton- on–the-Water. Meet 10:00hrs in

BMW Club Journal • September 2005 43 Northleach Centre car park. Brian 28-31 Irish N.W. Donegal Hotel Weekend in Harrison 01594 530264. Ardara. (Halloween Fancy Dress Yorkshire 12 Noon Yorkshire Section AGM Theme) Jim O’Connell 086- Conservative Club Gildersome. 2805974. 18 Midland Park Hall Tavern, Mansfield 30 S.East Traditional Autumn Leaves Run. Woodhouse Evening pub meet 7.30 Depart 10.30am Little Chef A20 Midland The Queens Arms at Orlingbury. Charing. (Kevin Goldfinch 01304 Evening pub meet 7.30pm. 840223). 19 N.East The Waggon Inn, nr. Ponteland. Scottish Sunday Bar Lunch at the Crook Inn, Informal Club Meet at 7.30 p.m. North of Moffat on A701. 12.30. S.East Guest Speaker at ‘Riano’s’, Southern 11.00 Breakfast run to Devizes Maidstone. 8pm. Safeways. 20 Mercia The Bull & Butcher, Corley Moor Western Lunch/Pub Meet. The Globe Inn, 7:30pm. Somerton 12 Noon. Tony Martin Midland Kings Head Tealby Evening pub 01458 274932. meet 7.30pm. 31 Northern 7:30pm The Haraby Inn, John Bell, Southern True Lovers Knot. 01228 535173. 21 Northern 8pm The Glory, Alan Stretton, 01706 656606. 22 Irish AGM Grand Hotel, Moate, Co. Westmeath. Dinner and B&B Please remember entries are only available. accepted for inclusion in the ‘Diary’ and 23 Mercia Repton 12:00. Northern 9:30am Lunch at the Auchencastle ‘Around the Compass’ from either your Hotel, Beatock, Meet at Burton Section secretary or from your Section Services M6. Bill Smithson 01228 Social secretary. This is to ensure that 535173. the Club abides by the rules which Oxford Skittle Match v Western Section. provide our insurance cover. Any other S.East The Bull, East Farleigh. 12 noon. events should be sent to the Editor for S.West 1400 hrs. Section AGM. The Village Hall, Cheriton Bishop, Nr. Exeter. inclusion in ‘Events not organised by Followed by a presentation from the BMW Club’ Global Rider and journalist Sam Manicom. Scottish Sunday Bar Lunch at the Hopeville Please Also Keep Them Brief ! Social Club, Harlaw Road, Inverurie. 12.30. Southern 11.00 Section AGM, Rake Village As many of our members have pointed out, Hall Greg Smith Tel. 02380 251146. Ulster Ride and Meet for Lunch - Saltwater this centrefold diary-of-events section is Brig, Kircubbin 12.30 pm for 13.00 designed to be “pull-out” in its nature for Western Skittle Match v Oxford Section. 12 general ease of reference. While it is very noon Stirrup Cup Pub, Bisley, nr pleasing to see such a diverse range of club Stroud. Skittles and refreshments after lunch.. Brian Harrison 01594 activities being promoted, can I request that 530264. all contributors keep their diary contributions 24 London Ace Cafe, 8:00 pm. as brief as possible so that I can literally 25 Oxford Natter night, Dog & Partridge, “squeeze them all in” ? Riseley, nr Reading 8.00pm. Southern Fishers Pond/Saddlers Arms. Yorkshire 8pm ‘ Conservative Club For this month, as you can see, I’ve reduced Gildersome. 26 E.Anglia The Compasses, Littley Green, the size of the print typeface in order to get Essex, 19 00. them all in the space available ( I know - this Mercia The Chetwynd Arms, Brocton insert is taking up valuable space too..) but 7:30pm. may I suggest that from now on all [Diary Of Mercia Four Counties Inn, No Mans Heath 12:00 noon. Events] contributions are confined to their 27 Mercia Whipping Stocks, Nr Knutsford date, a single venue and start time ( using the 7:30pm. 24-hour-format ), with a contact name and N.East Jackson’s Wharf at Hartlepool telephone number provided if needed for Historic Quays. Informal Club Meet at 7.30 p.m. further information e.g. multistart points and/ Northern 8pm The Whipping Stocks, Mal or accomodation details ? Wagstaff, 0161 747 4443. S.East The Wagon & Horses, Charing. 8pm. Thanks in advance for your help here !

44 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 AROUND THE COMPASS These activities have been arranged as agent for and on behalf of The BMW Club

3 Sept Sleaford Historic Car & Motorcycle Show. son 1 bike single room, £625. £75 deposit. Book- Bill Rodgers 01526 834480 ings/details Alan Steed 01243 862261 3-10 Sept Holiday in PULA, Croatia. Frame tent 18 Sept Stinkwell Classic Show, Beaumanor or mobile home in coastal holiday complex. Contact Hall, Woodhouse, Leics. Club Area. 01908 216623. Arthur Allen 01745 550239 23-26 Sept Thatch Rally - Irish Section. Surf- 9–11 Sept, Warren Caravan Park, Waren ers Cove Holiday Homes, Bundoran, Co. Mill, Bamburgh, Northumberland, just Donegal. 3 nights sc accomodation, din- North of Bamburgh. Friday to Sunday. June11th ner Sat. night. Irish stew and Irish coffee North East Section Camping Weekend. to 14th Hotel on arrival plus complimentary polo shirt Full site facilities with bar and restaurant. Week-End in all for E110 or Stg£80 pp. Details/book- A lovely and interesting location. Single Cumbria Ride outs ings Claire [email protected] or phone tent £6.00, double £9.50. Graham Walker 00353 (0)71 9170887. Beautiful scenery 01207 528426, or Tony Seed 01642 and great “craic” guaranteed! 785880. 30 Sept-2 Oct, GLENCOE CAMPING WEEK- 9-11 Sept. The Rabbit Rally. Waterside Holiday Park, Bowleaze, Preston. Event off A353 Nr. Wey- END, Scottish Section. Still a firm favourite. Steve 01796 472551 mouth. Facilities include bar, heated pool, restau- rant, sauna and gym. Mike Groves 01305 815361 28th - 31st Oct. Irish Section. Return visit to the Nesbitt Arms Hotel, Ardara, Co. Donegal. 3 16-18 September, ELPHIN BUNKHOUSE WEEK- END, Scottish Section. Alan 01334 653142 nights B&B, 1 dinner all for Euro135pp or £100. Optional Halloween fancy dress disco on Friday 18-24 Sept, Swiss Tour. Grindelwald. Southern night - free to BMW Club so dont forget your Section with MSL Tours. Price incl return ferry Do- costume! Details and bookings Claire ver Calais. 6 nights dinner bed & breakfast in qual- [email protected] or +353 (0)71 9170887. ity hotels. 2 persons 1 bike shared room £485 per person. 1 person 1 bike shared room, £565. 1 per-

Events not organised by the BMW Club The BMW club provides the following events for your information and has no responsibility for these events or the accuracy of this information

September 4th - Region 6 (Kent) BMF Pet Food Winch, King’s Lynn, Norfolk. PE32 1NF or talk to Run to Marsh Farm Animal Shelter, Pluck’s Gutter him on 01553 630007. General details will be sent near Canterbury. Run 1 from the lay-by opposite out in one envelope and hotel booking forms in the Oakdene Cafe, A20 Wrotham, Kent at 1000 for the other. You may also talk to the Vintage Secre- tary (01908 216623) about the details. Please note 1030 departure led by BMF Marshals. Run 2 from this Rally is strictly for pre-1979 machines the Railway Cafe, Hythe, Kent leaves 1100 for shorter scenic ride to the shelter led my Paul Devall. 27 October to 6 November International Mo- torcycle and Scooter Show 2005, NEC Birming- local BMF Rep and BMW Club Member. All riders ham. National Exhibition Centre. welcome. See http://www.devall.me.uk/ BMW_Pages/moto_petrun05b.htm for more details. 5-7 November Hippo Rally at Hidden Valley Campsite on the A361 just outside Ilfracombe. £9.50 6th – 12th October The Moto Piston Rally in for 2 nights camping. Food Available on site. Just Santander, Spain is being held. A great deal of turn up no need to book. Contact Dave Little 01404 interest in this event is being shown by Vintage 861285 or Keith Hackett 01803 527760 and Classic Register Members. If you are con- sidering attending send two SAE’s to the UK rep- resentative, Adrian Trim, PO BOX 167, East

BMW Club Journal • September 2005 45 France,France, TwoTwo GitsGits andand aa GrandeGrande J’AnusJ’Anus

The Loire

AVING HAD OUR TOUR of Scotland rather then get stuck on the dreaded successfully published in April 2004, motorways. We met Trevor II and his wife Jean Hwrites Trevor Cleverly, we thought we then set off on our K1200LT’s, 6 hours later would share our visit to Le Pin, Loire Valley, (Yes! 6 hours) we arrived. We had to stop 3 France, May 2005 with you. times to disrobe as the wonderful English weather decided to warm up to ‘30 degrees’. We left Wiltshire at 13.30 Friday 27th May. The Tractors, lorries and everyone wanting to turn morning had been sunny and boded well for right! It was great to see the sign outside the our journey to Folkestone for a 1 night B & B B & B stating ‘Bikers welcome’ and ‘Swimming stop prior to catching the Euro ‘Chunnel’. Pool’. My wife Sue’s last words on the intercom Trevor II and I had decided to go via A-roads being ‘I’m getting straight in the pool’, alas poor Sue the proprietors still had the bloomin’ cover over it!

HE NEXT DAY the ‘Chunnel’ was booked Tfor 08:30. We were all a little apprehensive, not having used this mode of transport. There was no need as it was an absolute doddle, 30 minutes later we were in Calais heading down on the E402 with the wind trying to blow us back onto the left hand side of the road.

Nevertheless it was dry and bright, we had 370 miles ahead of us.

46 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 handy as they cook all fresh produce. Our last stop was in a small village called Chateauneuf between Le Mans and Angers. As we were to learn - all villages in France appear eerily void of human life, Trevor II decided that we all deserved a cold drink in the café bar adjacent to where we found parking space. The girls disembarked and went off like a shot, Trevor II and I having to stay with our ‘beasties’ to look after the kit. When the girls didn’t return I went over and found them sat comfortably beers in hand, Sue beaming proudly as she had been able to order them in French. 30 degree heat in England

Our first comfort/fuel stop arrived and (as like many of you) we looked for where other bikers were parked (why is that?). To our surprise there amongst the other bikes was another K1200LT in burgundy like ours, Sue went straight up to the owner to express what ‘good taste’ he had, it turned out he was from Wiltshire and only lived 15 miles away from us! We exchanged names and addresses as he doesn’t know any other BMW owners – could soon be a convoy of K12’s on tour!

N STARK CONTRAST to England the IFrench roads were virtually empty unless approaching a large town, we did find the toll roads a bit of a pain, our pillions having to do 1,905 Miles to go! some work juggling coins and tickets and pressing red buttons. We still did the 370 miles We arrived at La J’Anais (as advertised in the in virtually the same time as the 200 the Journal) some 30 minutes later to find a previous day in England. We had pre-booked lovingly restored farm house set amidst farm our evening meal at our B & B, our hosts land with a beautiful large garden complete Richard and Pat Glanville just requested we with small pool which thankfully was not let them know when we were somewhere covered up! La J’Anais consists of three B & B rooms and 2 Self contained Gites. One of the Gites was occupied by four ‘Motto Guzzi Peeps’ whom we affectionately named ‘The Gits’. After clambering out of our leathers we sat outside sipping beer under the pergola. Bikes ‘safely ensconced’ in the barn large enough to house quite a few bikes, (which is just as well), eventually there were to be two K1200’s, two Motto Guzzi’s, one Honda, one RS1150 and our host Richards GS1150. A feeling of ‘all is well in the world’ came flooding over me.

Prior to eating Richard showed us a large Anyone for Coffee display of all manor of liquors sat on top of an BMW Club Journal • September 2005 47 dinner. Nothing could be further from the truth; Richard and Pat have totally immersed themselves into the French way of life, which includes buying and cooking French produce in the French way.

Pat did us proud, we sat at the large dining table with the 4 ‘Motto Guzzi’ people exchanging stories and jokes, 4 courses later and coffee outside it was a perfect end to our first day in France.

HE FOLLOWING DAY as we did on our Ttour of Scotland we had decided to have Happy Days! a day ‘off bike’, explore the local surroundings and give my ‘Glutimus Minimus’ a well-earned old beer barrel, he explained that we were rest. It was Sunday and Richard told us the entitled to a ‘free’ aperitif before dinner and a nearest village ‘Le Pin’ would be busy as the complementary bottle of local wine with our French were voting on the Euro Constitution. meal (Red, White or Rose). He also had a We strolled some 2.5 miles or so alongside well stocked bar which of course you have to fir tree plantations, lovely houses adorned with pay for but the prices are very reasonable. Sue roses with beautifully tended gardens. Arriving had been a little concerned when we chose at the village we were not surprised to find it La J’Anais as it was run by English people, ‘devoid of human life’ but we did find a small she’d had visions of ‘Bangers & Mash’ for pocket of human existence in the shape of a

Le J'Anais

48 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 small shop linked to a café/bar. Café O’lait for Trevor II and Jean, beer for the Cleverlys watching one person every hour rushing to vote at the town hall opposite.

Strolling back to home the clouds began to gather and promptly started to dampen our spirits, hair and clothing, suffice to say the afternoon was filled with ‘power naps’. The evening meal was the highlight of the day, prior to which we watched the ‘Motto Guzzi Peeps’ returning to hang their wet gear up in Richard’s barn on the cunningly erected washing line and coat hangers – He thinks of everything! Richards Barn ACK TO THE BIKE the next day with the Bsun shining! Wonderful traditional French breakfast including fresh croissant (delivered daily routine! every morning) and Pats homemade blackcurrant jam. We set off for a picnic on Trevor II was our navigator and had invested the banks of the Loire River. Trevor II and Jean in a new GPS system (his old one he had appeared a little ‘jaded’ (possibly the residual named ‘Bob’). Sue who is not overly affects of the local Rose Wine partaken the enamoured with GPS’s decided the new one night before?). We popped into Angers to had to be named ‘Beelzebob’. We had also purchase our picnic food, Angers is a large purchased a very cheap bike-to-bike intercom town therefore we did find civilisation – I must system that at times proved very entertaining ensure you that Sue and I do not like large and useful. It was interesting comparing where crowds of people and go out of our way in ‘Beelzebob’ wanted to take us as opposed to England to avoid towns and cities, it was just where my ‘Knowall’ system wanted to go. I reassuring to see people going about their have to admit that I do have 2 guidance systems on my bike – electronic in front, bionic behind! Combined they get us there in the end, Sue likes sign posts and on occasions asked me to call Trevor II to tell him we had missed a turn – No need! Within 30 seconds Trevor II would call me and confirm Sue’s comment.

We found a tree-lined lay-by beside the Loire complete with 2 picnic tables, wonderful to have dappled shade and watch the wildlife (time for some off- bike videoing). A tour along the river and over a spectacular bridge following our noses to a certain degree, even though we were in a tourist location the traffic was light.

Saint-Nazaire Bridge Back to La J’Anais to relax in BMW Club Journal • September 2005 49 or green!’ Trevor II put her right -‘It’s not an eye-sore it’s history!’ The ride over the bridge did not live up to expectations - the old Severn Bridge is better especially in a high wind. Another meandering ride ensued, this time in search of ice cream. We fell upon a village shop that looked promising. Sue and Jean went to the shop, meanwhile I was approached by a middle-aged lady, she looked straight at me (ignoring Trevor II) rattled a sentence in very fast French, Trevor II then came to my rescue telling her ‘we no speak good French’. When the girls returned (empty handed) this lady had wandered off to sit on a bench nearby, Jean decided she may have been asking for a cigarette as I had been smoking at the time, Sue then pointed out that the lady was at that very moment drawing on a cheroot! Oh well I’ll never know!

Another relaxing day in the sun at La J’Anais - Sue got her swim in the pool at last!

We have to share the ‘last supper’ with you although it’s better on a plate then on paper: Smoked salmon on a bed of lettuce covered in vinaigrette. Two Quails wrapped in bacon with spinach and sliced potatoes in a ‘dreamy creamy’ sauce. Cheese with French bread. the sun before dinner - not yet warm enough for a swim in the pool. Yet another of Pat’s The ‘piece de residence’ - Richard telling us wonderful 4 course meals and a chance for to have ‘spoons at the ready’ entering the room the Cleverly’s to try the infamous Rose wine with 2 plates containing crepes filled lightly to see if it had the same residual effects on us with what I think was blackcurrants and as it had on our companions! raspberries, quickly followed by Pat carrying a very large flaming ladle of Brandy which was Yes the effects were good but we were OK in lovingly poured (half a ladle each) onto the the morning – Need to take more water with it plates. Sorry Pat if we have spoiled your Trevor II and Jean? surprise dish but we think it needed to be shared on paper if not on the plate! We are All too soon it was our last real holiday day! sure that some of you who may have read this Richard had been very helpful giving us idea’s far are wondering why we didn’t go and explore on where to go and has an endless supply of other eating venues in the evenings? The books and tourism literature (he really is a answer is simple – after a good day’s ride-out ‘Grande J’anus). what could be better than putting your bike to bed, relaxing in good company and hospitality, ECISION MADE, off to see the German listening to the toads croaking, the owls DU-boat Pen/Harbour at Port De Saint- hooting and me snoring? I rest my case! Nazaire on the West Coast where the Loire meets the sea. The girls didn’t mind as they As all holidays end, it was the homeward trail were looking forward to the ride over the again, Ughh! Pat had asked us the night estuary bridge afterwards. Sue found the U- before what time we wanted breakfast as she boat pen very ‘spooky’ making the comment was already aware we had to be in Calais for ‘this is an eye-sore and should be painted pink 14:30, ‘06:30 please’, no problem for Pat! - 50 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 Sue’s question to you readers – ‘ Would this service be available in England?’

Weather dry, toll roads sorted, a bridge resembling a roller-coaster across the river Seine near to Le Harve, a toll bridge ‘free’ for bikers and the wonderful French car drivers who virtually drive on the grass verges to let you by (no we don’t tail-gait!), 370 miles in France.

200 miles in England – A wet, cold, ‘Jam infested’ NIGHTMARE!

Are there too many people on this island?

HE BIKES BEHAVED immaculately, Journeys End T including a short break to Sheffield and across the Snake Pass ‘Pebbs’ (the bike), Sue & I managed 1,905 miles in total – not bad their home to any BMW owner provided you seeing as we ain’t had much opportunity to are sociable, relaxed and have a good sense get out this year yet! of humour – The Glanvilles deserve nothing less! Finale: - A big thank you to all the people we met on our trip and especially to Richard, Pat Safe and Happy Riding to you all! and their dog Mimi, we thoroughly recommend

BMW Club Journal • September 2005 51 Phil and Bob’s Excellent Adventure

A Tale of Two Ageing Biker Dudes’ Big Road Trip

ONG IN ANTICIPATION, short on Equipment – Lightweight BMW Traveller jacket planning. The idea was to take the ferry and those lightweight BMW trousers with the Lfrom Portsmouth to Bilbao, spend the daring thigh zips, a system 4 helmet including best part of nine days meandering via the the open face option, leaky classic BMW minor roads of Spain and France and return luggage, waterproof over-suit (ha), and our to Blighty via St Malo in Brittany. one piece of techy kit, a borrowed bike to bike communication set up. Transport – me on my trusty 1973 R75/5 and Bob on a 900cc Yamaha Diversion (well I Let the adventure begin: suppose at least it’s got a shaft drive!) Take things a day at a time, according to whim, Teatime, Wednesday June 22 2005. weather, and fatigue. Definitely no camping and every confidence in finding suitable, Brighton to Portsmouth for the evening ferry comfortable accommodation at each day’s to Bilbao, good run, light traffic. Pride of Bilbao end. very comfortable, cabin air conditioned,

Onwards and upwards

52 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 hopefully we’ll sleep well after a pint and a towards the ship to ride the bow wave. We bottle of red. were later treated to sightings of pods of Pilot whale and Minky Whale, then later, Bottlenose HE FERRY WAS two hours late leaving Dolphins. Tdue to loading problems, but we are assured the time will be made up. Sea is flat On our second day we got off to a good start, calm with a full moon and even the stars Bob lost a glove when on the car deck, on he reflected on the sea. returned to the bowels of the ship to search, only to return and find it on the bike, where We woke up at 0915hrs on our first day, he’d left it! Last off the ferry and so quickly unheard of! Went to the café for 2 coffees and lost within the port as no one left to follow. 2 croissants - £6.30! Then the buggers had the cheek to charge me another 30p when I 0900hrs - at last on the road, then discover went back for some margarine. At 1000hrs I that Spanish road signage is not foreigner dragged Bob along to listen to the talk given friendly. Groundhog Day in Azpatia. Four times by the ship’s scientific officer on whales and round and round the same part of town to find dolphins. Would you believe it, The Bay of our route, then eventually onwards for a Biscay is the top spot in the world for sightings superb ride through the mountains towards of whales and dolphins due, apparently, to it’s Tolosa and lunch. Late afternoon, very hot and unique submarine topography. humid, and finding our way out of Pamplona proved to be a bit of a nightmare. After several Afternoon spent on the helicopter deck, and a circuits of one roundabout a tanker driver wee bit cynical about actually sighting stopped, got down from his cab and managed anything, when we spotted a school of around to get us on the right road, eastbound, without eighty Common Dolphin racing and porpoising either of us having understood a word the BMW Club Journal • September 2005 53 At the border

other had said. We eventually arrived at (by and the roads are too straight, were going to chance) the Hostel Lattore on the edge of the blast around the mountains for the rest of the small town of Liedena. Very comfortable room day!” “Oh, righty ho” said I. with good air conditioning (so good in fact that we had to turn it off in the night as it was too As we crossed into the French side the clouds cold), and secure parking for the bikes. Bit of were backed up to the mountains and it was a cock-up on the menu front at dinner, but hey, drizzling, instead of going east along the this was an adventure; I certainly do not foothills we took the wimps’ option and headed remember ordering the chilled soup or an North towards Pau and the sunshine, then orange on a plate with a knife and fork! picked up the N117 to Tarbes.

An early start for a glorious ride on our third VENTUALLY WE arrived hot and morning found us heading East on the N240, Eexhausted at Tournay, stayed at the Hotel lake to the right, Pyrenees to the left. Coffee Coraux, which was quite comfortable, locked stop at the lovely town of Jaca. Why, when I garage once again. Good dinner and a bottle, order myself a large black coffee, do I always but we should have been suspicious when we end up with a thimble full of creosote? were asked to settle the bill for the meal and the room straight away (I just assumed they North into the Pyrenees, brilliant roads, thought we looked a bit dodgy). We took a breathtaking scenery and relief from the pleasant stroll around the town, and turned in sweltering heat. We had a break at the summit for an early night, except, as we later and met a group of English riders on sports discovered, it was some sort of national music bikes going the other way. “How was it on the day and there was an all night disco blasting French side?” I asked, “Oh crap, it’s all flat away next door, which finished around 54 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 0530hrs. I finally got to sleep in the unbearable (I have trouble remembering yesterday’s humidity at about 0600, only to be woken by events let along those of 20 years ago) then the church bells across the road at 0700hrs! we took the D2 to the fortified medieval hilltop town of Lauzette. After a cold beer in the town We felt somewhat jaded first thing the square and a fruitless reccy for suitable, nay, following morning, our fourth, but the D17, any accommodation, we pressed on. delightful road to L’Isle de Dodon soon brought Temperature now approaching 40 degrees me round. Tried, without success, to find some and, feeling quite fagged and really desperate idyllic little maison Bob had visited 20 years for an oasis, we stumbled upon a chambres previously and was now apparently for sale, d’hote 3kms south of Montague de Quercy.

The little Blue House at Vaunac

BMW Club Journal • September 2005 55 Any port (or should that be cognac) in an impending storm

As we drove up the drive to an attractive large LATE AND LEISURELY start the next stone farmhouse, I prayed they would be able Amorning and after a sumptuous breakfast to accommodate and feed us. I wearily we said our au revoirs to Spike and Allison removed my helmet, and in my best French and started our fifth day. Our route of the day asked a young girl if they had a room for the took us from Montaque de Quercy, via the D41 night. “Dad, have we got a room?” Ah, Engish, to Saux, the D44 to Serrinac, crossed the Lot I surmised. Dad emerged, “hey you guys look at Puy L’Eveque and on to Periguex. By now hot, sit down in the shade, here’s a cold beer, the temperature had soared to over 40 and when you’ve sunk that get your kit off and degrees and there was no respite even riding jump in the pool, and when I’ve shown you at 60mph. The road had run alongside a river the room I’ll move the van so you can park for miles just teasing us, and at last we found the bikes in the barn” Well, as we were access to it for a paddle and a head dunk. obviously in one of those Heineken ads, (you Now, to find a suitable hostelry. Just South of know if Heineken did Bike trips….) I thought Thieviers we thought we’d cracked it, nice we’d go for broke, “would you er, be able to looking place at an escargot farm, only to find provide us with a meal this evening?” I that Madame took us for a couple and could tentatively asked “Sure,” replied Spike, the only offer us a double bed! Needless to say, owner, late of Eastbourne, “I’m a chef actually” we pressed on fairly smartly till we happened and so it just got better; a blissful sojourn, upon a charming little chambres d’hotes in the lovely room, fantastic food, and such delightful hamlet of Vaunac, quirky, everything painted hosts. Les Chenes de Saint Croix gets my five- blue, and full of old fashioned giant’s furniture, bike rating of approval. but behind it’s thick walls and shutters there 56 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 was relief from the unbearably clammy heat. E HAD a spectacular walk along the W beach before breakfast and a late off Bob and I had spent 30 years of a previous for our seventh day. We meandered life in the Fire Service, and we’d both had northwards along the coastal D roads and got enough of mucking around in the heat and somewhat lost, as they weren’t on our maps! humidity in unseasonably thick clothing and (Bob determined to complete his set of those uncomfortable helmets. big yellow ones). Pressed on inland once more to Rochefort, the area flat, unimpressive and Lovely stop, good homemade food and booze, our first drop of rain! Oh, how I hate my boil- and the usual French hospitality, though in-the-bag suit, and I must get a piece of that struggled a bit in the half height garage. non-slip matting to stop my backside sliding up and down the seat! Still, it didn’t last too N THE ROAD by 0830hrs for day six saw long. North West now, and the lovely town of Ous now heading east once again on the Loudun, close to the Loire. A night at the Hotel D roads, the 707 this time. First stop Montron, Restaurant Ricordeau. Well, what can I say, a beautiful medieval hill town overlooking the prime spot in the town centre, superb hotel, Dronne. Time for the first planned (well sort balcony overlooking our bikes in the square, of) stopover, a visit to some of Bob’s friends gourmet food, good wine, and all so who run a campsite on the coast near La reasonable. Rochelle, and so it was west via Cognac to St Palais sur Mer. Some chat, a swim and a Rain! Not a good start to day eight. Northeast barbie followed by a comfortable night in a once more to Chinon, very nice and improved mobile home, which we had to ourselves. further when the rain had stopped. On, in the

St Palais sur Mer BMW Club Journal • September 2005 57 My kinda beer - Kronenbourg 20/50 direction of Tours to pick up the scenic route luck really, as the Hotel du Voyagers at Leon west alongside the Loire. Not quite as serene D’Angers was worth it, once we had as anticipated, too many trucks and stressed negotiated our way through a tortuous and by the lack of garages. Then real rain, and I lengthy diversion for road works. First I find that my waterproofs aren’t! A change to ascertained that the bulldozer outside the the full-face helmet option and doggedly hotel would remain dozing until a decent hour, splashing on. In desperation, we tried one of and then we booked in. A comfortable night those automated hotels that let you in by credit with very good food and wine, though the room card, only to discover once we’d worked our ended up as a cross between a sauna and a way, dripping and steaming, through its Chinese laundry, clothing and maps drying electronic menu that it was full. A stroke of everywhere. Nice cosy garage for the bikes though.

AIN ONCE MORE started day nine much Rthe same as day nine! Now dear reader, if you have got the impression that we’re a couple of go anywhere, in anything, well-hard bikers, you haven’t been concentrating. Plan B now swung into action, which was to blast on straight and true to visit my good friends Maggie and Pete in Brittany a day earlier than originally forecast for some excellent hospitality, food and more than a little drink, and perhaps the odd walk in the lovely surrounding countryside. Midway, a stop in

58 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 some unremembered town for lunch, couldn’t Post script. be bothered to search for a suitable hostelry and then disrobe so we sampled the HE BIKE was a dream; it covered 1400 “supermarche” option; a baguette and a bottle Tmiles, used about a half pint of oil, and of water standing under the entrance canopy never missed a beat. sheltering from the rain. I thought the first little old lady to pass us and wish us “bon appetite Communications were really useful, though messieurs et bon voyage” was just being not so effective at speed, really a bonus in ironic, but then after two more said exactly the towns for arguing over directions and telling same I realized it was just the French love of Bob he’d just run another red light! food and impeccable manners. We arrived at our destination in Brittany late afternoon and, I recommend the open face helmet option, as it turned out, at Trevray, a little hamlet close don’t think I would have survived in a full face, to Moncontour, everything brightened up, we however, on a lovely hot day with no other didn’t feel guilty though. traffic, beautiful scenery and great roads I must resist the urge to sing as I ride and should E HAD a rest day for our tenth day. The keep my mouth shut at all times, some of those W market at St Brieuc, walking, talking, foreign bugs are huge! chillin’.

Finally the following morning, our eleventh and last, we had about an hour and half’s run on empty roads with a clear blue sky to St Malo, another relaxing and calm crossing and home by 2000hrs.

Still “dozing” as we leave our hotel

BMW Club Journal • September 2005 59 Secure Luggage from PacSafe Product Review by Barry Brown

At the end of Roger Yetton’s BMW Club ‘California Their management team have now produced three Dreaming’ Tour in 2000, I had come to the items that I believe will make the other products in conclusion that a tank-bag, whilst very desirable this sector virtually obsolete. as luggage space, was nevertheless a confounded nuisance on a touring holiday. At virtually every Lidsafe - this consists of the usual tape-sealed outer coffee-stop or tourist visit, it had to be carted round waterproof shell and a soft inner liner, but, with us – it couldn’t be left on the ‘bike for fear of sandwiched between the two layers, is a plastic- pilfering or outright theft. coated, slash-proof, high-tensile stainless steel mesh. This locks closed with a built-in heavy-duty On our return home I contacted a few tank-bag locking cable, so the bag can then be locked to the manufacturers, with varying levels of response – bike or any other secure object. So this bag, could ranging from being totally ignored to a mild also securely hold other small valuables, as well disinterest in my ideas! However, I have just had as or instead of the helmet. It packs up extremely the opportunity to view some pre-production small, particularly considering the level of protection samples at a Trade Show, and I’m extremely it offers. enthusiastic about what has been produced. The company concerned is PacSafe, and you may be The second item is a 40-litre tail bag - TailSafe, this more familiar with them as producers of stainless can be to be fitted either to the pillion seat or to a steel mesh luggage security items. Their net to rear rack. Again, it features PacSafe’s patented secure rucksacks is probably most well known to high-tensile stainless steel mesh laminated within you, their products being displayed in most good a weatherproof outer shell and liner. This pulls ‘Outdoors’/camping/travel-goods shops. together at the opening (under a top cover), locks shut and can then be locked to the ‘bike with the

60 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 heavy-duty locking cable. It can be strapped to the bike using three different tensioning straps featuring neoprene padding (apart from the locking cable that can also secure other items, too); has a weatherproof main compartment; handy side- pockets and lid pocket; carrying handle/comfortable shoulder strap; huge zip-pullers (for frozen or gloved fingers!) that are even luminous; and reflective piping.

Their third product, and my personal favourite, is a 26-litre tankbag – TankSafe. The same security mesh, locking system, and locking cable as the other two items, and with a host of additional features. For example: a removable, zippered base (that can remain securely strapped to the ‘bike) that can also permit the ‘bag to hinge up for easy, no- hassle refuelling; weather- and soak-proof map case; extra side pockets; carrying handle; the same reflective piping and extra-large luminous zip pulls; and a very comfortable ‘backpack’ harness so the bag can be worn as a rucksack. Please note: Production versions will only be fitted with a tank harness, not the heavy, costly magnets as shown in the illustration. A cost reduction will therefore result, making these even more competitively priced.

What has particularly pleased me is the sheer quality of these products. The only luggage that I have seen that comes remotely close to PacSafe’s as far as quality is concerned is ‘Buffalo’ – but they don’t have security built in! These are all top-quality items that, with care, should last a very long time. Along with the quality, PacSafe have also managed to make products that look good, too. They really look the part, stylish and well thought out.

A distributor is currently being chosen. Prices are still being finalised but expect them to be very competitive, particularly when compared to other bags that don’t offer such protection. In the light of feedback received, some minor modifications are being designed into the first production batch, so the finished articles should be even better than those I saw! If you are interested in the general concept of PacSafe’s unique, patented security system, then their existing range of other travel security products can be inspected at most good ‘Outdoors’/camping/travel goods shops.

PacSafe point out that these products satisfy the ‘light security’ sector – they are not intended to withstand a sustained, sophisticated assault whilst the bag is left, say, overnight in a dark area. What they will do, however, is prevent pilfering or theft while you’re away having a cup of coffee, visiting a tourist attraction, popping into a shop/garage, buying tickets, etc.

BMW Club Journal • September 2005 61 The Caption Competition Win a £10 or a £5 Moto-Bins Voucher Write your own caption for this photograph. A selection of the best will be printed in the October Journal. The prizes each month for the funniest - and PRINTABLE ! - caption will be First : £10 Moto-Bins Gift Voucher and Runner-Up : £5 Moto-Bins Gift Voucher Entries must be submitted to the Editor (post only - no phoned efforts) will only be accepted from BMW Club Members, so please don’t forget your name, address & membership number when sending your entry. ( Sorry for last month’s hiatus - overexcitement before our holiday, I’m afraid ! Prizes from May onwards now being despatched - Ed. )

JULY 2005

Winner : “Wee Jock’s attempt at tossing the GS drew gasps of appreciation from the judges”

Martin Pegler (Yorkshire Section )

Runner-Up “It was only at that moment that it struck Brian that a bike stand would have been a better investment than stylish braces”

John Hobson (East Anglia Section)

JUNE 2005

Winner: “The timekeepers are nearly ready but one of them’s brought his lunch and a calendar”

Brian Holmes (Northern Section)

Runner Up: “Can I have a go, mister ?”

Anon (i.e. I can’t read your details - please get in touch ! )

62 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 Where we meet EAST ANGLIA: The Cossways, Scole Norfolk. 12:00, OXFORD: George & Dragon, Erlestoke, Wilts 1st Sunday ; The Chequers, Wimbotsham, 7.00pm, 1st Thursday; Waggon and Horses at Norfolk,12.00 2nd Sunday; The Shoulder of Mutton, Southmoor off the A420, 19:30, 2nd Tues; Dog & Fordham, Essex. A1124. 12:00, 3rd Sunday; The Partridge, Riseley (off end of Swallowfield by-pass Compasses, Littley Green, Essex. 19:00. Last [A33]) 19:30, 4th Tues; Village Hall, Uffington, Wednesday. Oxfordshire, 14:00 occ. Suns IRISH: Dublin Meetings, 2nd Weds, Strawberry Hall, SCOTTISH: Meldrums Hotel, Ceres, Fife, 19:30, 1st Chapelizod, Dublin 15. 8.00pm. Jim Sweeney (01) Mon; Gairdeners’ Arms, 232 Paisley Road, Glasgow, 6270613 (H) 6280969 (W). Limerick Meeting, 2nd 19:00, 1st Mon; The Log Cabin Hotel, Kirkmichael, Tues 21.00, Woodfield House Hotel, Ennis Rd, Perthshire, 12:30, 2nd Sun; Crook Inn, A701 north Limerick. Peter Deevy 087 2570855. North West of Moffat, 12:30, last Sunday; Hopeville Social Club, meeting , 2nd Sunday 11.00am Coffey’s Cafe, Harlaw Road, Inverurie. 12.30, 4th Sun. Carrick-on-Shannon. Jim O’Connell 071-9182464. SOUTHERN: The Phoenix Inn, Twyford, Hants, on South East Meetings, Last Sunday of every month the B3335 1 mile south of M3, J11, 20:00 alt Tues; 11.00am Martin Doyle at 053-41167 The Saddlers Arms, Send Marsh, Nr. Ripley. 20.00 LONDON: The Old Guinea, Ridge (about 1 mile West alt. Tues; The Spread Eagle, Farnham Road, West of M25 / A1 interchange at South Mimms) 20:00 Liss, Hants. North of Petersfield off A3 on B3006, second Tuesday. The Ace Café, North Circular Road, alt Thurs;The True Lovers Knot at Tarrant Keyneston, Stonebridge, London, at 20:00 4th Monday. Dorset, 3 miles east of Blandford on the B3082 MERCIA: Four Counties Inn, No Mans Heath. 19.30 Wimborne Road, 20.00. 3rd Thursday 1st Tues and 12 noon last Wed.; Cross & Bowling SOUTH EAST: Riano’s, A26, Maidstone, 20:00, 1st/ Green, Branson Cross, on A435 at junction B4101. 3rd Wed; The Green Man, Lewes Road (B2192), Adj Q8 petrol station. 19.30 2nd. Thurs.; The Bull & Ringmer, East Sussex, 20:00 2nd Fri; The Bull, East Butcher, Corley Moor, B4102 from Meriden towards Farleigh, 12:00, 4th Sun; ‘The Wagon & Horses’, Fillongley, right before Motorway bridge, 3 miles on Charing, 20:00, last thursday. rd left, 19.30 3 Thurs; The Chetwynd Arms, A34 Brocton SOUTH WEST: Jamaica Inn: At Bolventor, off A30 Nr. Stafford, 19.30 4th Wed; Bull & Swan, Diseworth, nd east of Bodmin. (Signed from A30); The Globe: Exit Off A453 Nr East Midlands Airport 2 Wed. 19.30.; M5 J27 to A361 for Barnstaple and first left to Whipping Stocks, A50 Peover, Nr. Knutsford – 19.30 th Samford Peverell. All meets 1200 as per calendar 4 . Thurs. (with Northern Section) of events. Good Knight Inn, Cheriton Bishop: off A30 MIDLAND: Fox at Ropsley, on A52 halfway btwn between Exeter and Okehampton as per diary of Grantham and A15,19:30, 1st Tues; Green Dragon, events. Blind Lane, Oxton. , 19:30, 2nd Thurs: Queens Arms ULSTER: Corr’s Corner, Glengormley, Co Antrim, Orlingbury, btwn Kettering & Wellingborough, 19:30, 20:00 1st Tues; Wed. Evening Runs, Corr’s Corner, 3rd Tues: The Park Hall, Tavern Park Hall Road, 19:00 April, May, Sept, 19:30 June - Aug; Sunday Mansfield Woodhouse, Mansfield, Notts, Just of the Morning Runs. Sandyknowes Roundabout (unless A60. 19:30, 3rd Tues: The Kings Head Tealby, 19.30, specified), 10:30, most Suns, (July - Oct). 3rd Thursday; Community Centre, Greetham, on B668 nr Oakham, Leics, 13:30, occ Suns; The A5 WESTERN: New Inn, Claines, Worcester, 19:30 1st Rangers Cyclist Club, 101, Watling St, Towcester, Tuesday; Mackenzie Hall, Brockweir, Near Tintern entry by Islington Rd, NN12 6AU. 12:00, Oct to March. 14.00 2nd Sunday; The Globe Inn, Somerton 12.00 Sundays as detailed in the Programme. Natter night NORTH EAST: Belmont Community Centre, at the Codrington Arms, Codrington 19.30 1st Sunderland Road, Gilesgate, nr Durham.19.30. 1st Wednesday Wed: The Waggon Inn, on A696, 3m NW of Ponteland, 19.30. 3rd Wed: Jackson’s Wharf Pub, YORKSHIRE: Cracoe Village Hall on B6265 between Jackson’s Landing, Hartlepool Historic Quays, 19.30. Skipton and Kilnsey Crag, 12:00, 1st Sun; The Triton Thursday following 4th Wed. Inn, Brantingham, N Humberside, 20:00, 2nd Mon; White Swan Blyth, 12:00, 2nd Sun; The Coservative NORTHERN: The Briars Hall Hotel on A5209 near club, Town Street Gildersome, 20:00, last Tues of Burscough, Lancs, 20.00 1st Fri.; All Saints Church the month. Hall, Hale Barns, A538, 14:00, 2nd Sun; The Glory, Loveclough, nr Rawtenstall, A682, 19:30, 3rd Fri; Harraby Inn, Carlisle, A6, 2 miles west of M6 J42, 19.30, last Monday; The Whipping Stocks, south Please send all changes to Knutsford, A50, 20.00, 4th Thurs. Where we Meet to the Editor

BMW Club Journal • September 2005 63 Section & Register News

a hole has aged to the point that all they want to do East Anglia is, sit in there arms chairs and read the journal and Sue Bullimore a vast majority don’t want to do camping or hotels weekends any more. BMW members could have Here we are already into September, and I have got to an era where this not wanted anymore, is it not done half the things I was planning to do this that we have to get new blood into the section and year, attend more rallies, do the decorating and win kick a bit a life back into it, I don’t know nor do any the lottery. Unfortunately I have not rode my bike other sections now the answer, this could be the as much as I would have liked, there always seem way the club is going and we should accept it. something else that’s needs doing or is it just me, maybe it’s down to the poor summer weather again September 9th to 11th is a hotel and camping/YHA this year. Maybe you are the same as me and this weekend in Betws-y-Coed, North Wales. This is is why club members attending events are poor, or great area for bikes and beautiful scenery. Ring me it is because we are not catering for the members for more details 07780973050 needs, but what more can we do than try different things. If you don’t like what we are doing, tell us September 25th should be a ride out but I still need so we can try something else. Maybe we should be a ride leader for this, so if no one comes forward it accepting that the number of active members has will be cancelled, its not that difficult trust me (I declined over the years, it could be that section as know what you are saying if its not that difficult why Social and Register Secretaries Club Europa eV: Peter Dunn, Oxford: John Hillier, 101Station Road, Thatcham, Berks. RG19 4QH. 27 Stephens Close, Mortimer, Reading. RG7 Tel: 07941 075165. e-mail: europa@bmw- 3TX. Tel: 01189 332152. club.org.uk Scottish: Steve Shepley, Tulloch Moor, Tullynessle, Alford, Aberdeen- East Anglia: Sue Bullimore, shire, AB33 8DD Tel: 01975 564199 5 St Wendreds Way, Exning, Newmarket. Suffolk. CB8 7HJ. Tel: 01638 578461. Mobile Southern: Nigel Page, 07780973050 6 Eversleigh Court, High Path, Easebourne, e-mail: [email protected] Midhurst, W. Sussex. GU29 9BP. Tel: 01730 817782. e-mail: [email protected] Irish: Claire Mullen, 11 Knocknarea Villas, Sligo. Tel: South East: John Smith, 00353719170887, e-mail: [email protected] 12 Castleton Avenue, Barnehurst, Kent. DA7 London: Mick Miles, 6QU. Tel: 01322 342320. Shepherd’s Ley, Lamb Lane, Redbourn, St South West: Keith Hackett, Albans. AL3 7BS. Tel: 015 8279 3188. 41 Primley Park, Paignton, Devon. Tel: 01803 Mercia: John Greene, 527760. e-mail: [email protected] “Charnwood”, Francis Green Lane, Penkridge, Ulster: Michael Sweeney, Staffordshire. ST19 5HE. Tel: 01785 714474. 34 Edward Street, Downpatrick, Co Down, Nr. e-mail: [email protected] Ireland. BT306JD. Tel: 028 44 615692. Midland: Rob Harvey, Western: Brian Harrison, 33 Rochester Court, Bourne, Lincolnshire. PE10 Poolfield Court Cottage, Hewelsfield, Lydney, 9TW. Tel: 01778 393187. e-mail: Glos. GL15 6UJ/ . Tel: 01594 530264/ [email protected] Yorkshire: vacant at present Northern: Geoff Thompson, 44 Bamford Road, Heywood, Lancashire. OL10 4TA. Tel: 01706 629206. e-mail: [email protected] For contact details for the Associate Sec for North East: Tony Seed, America, and secretaries for the Sidecar, 3 Friarswood Close, Yarm, Stockton on Tees. Sporting and Vintage & Classic Registers TS15 9JG. Tel: 01642 785880. e-mail: see under National Officers at the front of this [email protected] Journal.

64 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 I am I not doing it, I have done my bit and now its Brilliant roads or small lanes really, you know the your turn) type with grass in the middle, a “wee bit” of gravel, the odd pothole, mad dogs and even suicidal deer. It’s also coming up to the AGM time again, Sunday Oh and did I mention the ford? Not everyone made October 9th, 11.00am Fornham St Martin Village it across this - some eyed it up and said “you cant Hall. Please come along and support your section. be serious” but then they decided to This is where you can view your opinions and ”go for it”, others thought better and went the long concerns, nothing will change if you sit your arm way round and some even let their pillion cross it chair and moan. After the AGM it’s too late to moan. and then went the long way round without her. So don’t forget to send your nominations of for next But he did redeem himself by coming back to collect year to the Secretary her. Thanks Ross. What more could one ask for? Even the weather held for us. Just one or two mishaps: Matthew saw a slightly different part of Galway to the rest of us, Ray had a small problem Irish Section with his brakes (well he was on a Honda) Jerry, of course, held on to his record, just a slight hitch with Claire Mullen a left hand corner but luck was on his side and Liam helped to lift the bike. It’s a horrible thought but we seem to be heading down that road to winter again, the time when the Everyone made it safely to our destination, which clothes sold as completely rain proof against a was Cong on Day 1 (where the Quiet Man was monsoon, warm in temperatures below freezing, made) and Foxford on Day 2. We had hoped to sorry must have got out of the bed the wrong side meet up with Don & Pam in Westport where we this morning. This summer for the Irish section has were having lunch but unfortunately Don was not been very successful with something for everyone. able to make it there. Hope you are recovering On July 8th-10th the camping weekend in Don. Gary Finlay and Brendan Lang did a great Ballykeernan, Athlone saw fifteen full members and job of organising the runs, with just the right balance twenty three lets call them “friends of the BMW club” of comfort and coffee stops and the scenery was there was a lovely mixture of members from both spectacular. It’s hard to believe we have such the Irish Section and the Ulster Section. The fabulous biking roads in Ireland and no traffic on weather was fantastic and what a great campsite, them. Thanks must go to Lil Finlay and Deirdre with an excellent B and B beside it. Lang as without their support and assistance this years Boreen run would not have taken place. On the same date in July, “The Tall Ships” was taking place in Co. Waterford, this is were ships just powered by sail’s are displayed in all there glory, a Thanks must also go to Gerry Tiernan who at the wonderful sight. A few people met the BMW Group last minute stepped in to help organise the (led by Peter) at Loftus Hall on Saturday morning. weekend. Gary, Brendan and Gerry you have Some people had stayed overnight at New Ross surpassed yourselves, as the general consensus and others had come down early in the morning to was, that this one was the best so far. It even got meet up with Peter. They were allowed into Loftus the “seal of approval” from Jimmy - now that’s Hall by the Caretaker (Peter had arranged it) and saying something! This year the Brian Langton we had a private viewing from there - which was Award was presented in memory of Brian who was great - we could see the ships in the distance and it fatally injured on 22nd January. From Yorkshire, was a fabulous site - you needed binoculars to see Brian loved the Irish events, but the Boreen in the ships properly (thankfully some of the lads had particular. Claire was honoured to brought them). receive this award. As bookings are already in for next years’ Boreen, Gary and Brendan you need to th st August Bank Holiday (in Ireland) 29 July – 1 of get your maps out and get on your bikes! Thanks August was the date of the very popular Boreen and well done lads. It was one of, if not THE best Run 33 people - 27 bikes made up the numbers for ever. the Boreen Run and what a weekend it was! For those who like riding their bikes, this is the event of the year for you.

BMW Club Journal • September 2005 65 London Section Derby. This is on the main A38 at the junction with the A52 from Ashbourne. Mick Miles The next run is Maurice’s trip to Ludlow (where there is a market and plenty of good cafes etc.) meet July started with a run to the River Yare in 10:00 on Sunday 25th at The National Motorcycle Norfok about 5 miles east of Norwich. Only 5 Museum (near the NEC). bikes turned up - this may have been due to the fact that we had a run the previous week There is a Repton meeting on Sunday 11th at 12:00 to The National Motorcycle Museum. Dave for the usual get together and natter over coffe/tea Ensor led the run, and we were taken through and biscuits. the beautiful lanes of Essex, Suffolk and Norfolk. The Pub we had chosen is alongside Not much to write this month so let me tell you about the BMW track day I did at Mallory Park on 21st the river and as it was beautiful day so we sat July. Being a track day virgin (there are still plenty outside for a lunch. of us about, unlike the other sort!) I arrived at the track with a certain amount of trepidation but did The annual run to The Bell at Stilton was very my best to keep relaxed. I needn’t have worried as well attended, 13 bikes turned up which was the day was so well organised (thanks to Garth surprising as some of our regular attendees Forbes for this) and the other participants were so were on holiday. This run attracted a few new sociable and courteous on the track that even a faces who we hope enjoyed the run which was novice like me soon felt comfortable. I joined the led by section secretary Nick Fry. This went novice group, who were being led around the track through some very nice villages which some by an instructor (from Hopp Rider Training) at what I thought was a very sedate pace. However once of us had not been to before. As usual we all the free practice sessions started I saw just how had an excellent three course lunch. fast some of my fellow novices really were. As the day flew by I began to make to real progress and to September has no runs, only the hotel keep pace with many who were so much faster than weekend in the Malvern Hills. me in the first sessions. If you haven’t done a track day, then I’d encourage you to go on the next club one as it is relatively safe and well controlled. With Looking a lot further ahead, if you are the tyres shredded to the very edge and the revs intrerested in the Christmas Dinner - please bouncing off the rev limiter I’ve rarely had such fun let me know as soon as possible. on my now not so new GS. Can’t wait for the next one! Mercia Section John Greene Northern Section Geoff Thompson There are three runs for you in September, the first is on Sat 17th September. Jeff is leading a run to the Air Ambulance base next to Stencham services. As I sit here in front of my computer wondering The Air Ambulance is our nominated charity and where I may find 600 interesting words of Section has been for the last few years so we shall be going News my mind begins to wander and before you to give them the section’s donation. Hog roast, know it I’m on my R1150R riding a stretch of twisty, drinks and other attractions are on offer at this Air yet perfectly smooth road which is meandering Ambulance Open Day. Meet at the services on the between high mountains. The sun is beating down A46 southbound Warwick bypass, this used to be as I punch through the warm wind; the scenery is a Little Chef (now defunct) but the petrol station is breathtaking with glimpses of waterfalls, dark still functional. Leave at 11:00 for a 50 mile ride to forests, towering peaks and soaring eagles. The Stencham. bike’s willing engine burbles happily as I lazily snick into fourth gear and accelerate from one challenging th Ian’s run to The Deep on Sunday 18 . departs 10:30 double bend towards the next. from MacDonalds at the Markeaton roundabout,

66 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 Birds of Prey Centre, and Symonds Yat. A Saturday night quiz seemed to go down well, with the honours (but unfortunately not the top prize) going to the ‘The four As’ of Alan & ‘Azel Stretton, Andrew Lowden, and Alan Davies. On Sunday it was everybody doing their own thing, followed by making our way home in beautiful weather. A repeat visit is now planned for late July 2006.”

Not quite so far in the future we have the a bring and buy anything sale at Hale Barns in September, the AGM in October and the Section’s post Christmas Dinner at the Briar’s Hall Hotel, near Ormskirk on 14th January 2006. Clive and Alison Talbot are arranging this event which will cost £18 Hales Barn : 10 July 2005 per head for the dinner and around £70 for optional Actually, that pretty accurately describes part of the double B&B. Full details and menus will be available ride that Karen, Tony Cartmell and I did when later in the month. My mind is wandering again researching my “Not the Weardale Wander” run. and we have just arrived at the National Rally at Unfortunately time did not allow us to put that Kelso. The sun is still warm as we erect the tent in section of the Yorkshire Dales into the ride, which the warm evening sunshine and ……. took place in late July. Maybe next year!

The week before Charles Morrish also led a run through the Yorkshire Dales and was well supported by around 20 members so perhaps it was not surprising that there were only 6 bikes on my run. The Section is really fortunate to have Paul Nadin and Mike Gibson, who have both put in a lot of time and effort to put on some excellent mid-week runs. Paul’s start from Congleton in the South of our region whilst Mike’s begin at Devils Bridge so everyone can be catered for if they can spare a midweek day.

After 2 years Paul is planning to retire so if there any volunteers to take over please let me know. Bill Smithson, fresh from his success as a tour guide leading a group to the Harz Mountains has offered to organise a hotel weekend in Bournemouth 19- 21 May next, with the object of visiting Sammy Millers Museum of Motorcycling. Three couples are booked in already but Bill needs more names in order to arrange hotel accommodation for 2 nights.

Tony Cartmell is also worrying Thomas Cook with his very successful return to The How Caple Grange Hotel. Tony wrote; “A mixed group including some friends & family, and Club members from various Sections met on the Friday. On the Saturday only 3 riders (Alan Davies, Peter Gillon, & Andrew Lowden), joined me for a ride out to Hay-on-Wye and the Brecon Beacons, whilst Mike & Peta Warrilow & others walked, some cycled, others visited Weston’s cider mill, as well as the National

BMW Club Journal • September 2005 67 North East share – you’re entitled, and welcome. Give me or Graham a ring for details, otherwise, as per the Tony Seed BMW website entry, proceed along the road from Bamburgh to Budle and at the top of a brow you July was a good month for us in the North, in spite will see a BMW sign to the lane going West up past of what the BBC told us. It was as hot as the the farm and look for the next sign. Continent and as dry as it should have been in the Phil will show us the delights of Richmondshire on th South of the UK. the 4 ; I can never understand how this non existent county is able to fence itself off with Richmondshire Of course there were hiccups like the evening of signs, like no other area I have ever seen in the the run to Edmundbyers which was rained off – UK; maybe Phil will tell us. There are no border though it dried up in fact. In time indeed for the controls, so come along. barbeque at Phil’s which enjoyed lovely weather in th similar surroundings, and was enjoyed by a good As noted last month, the AGM is on the 5 October; crowd – I would just urge more members to come all officers have to be proposed, and seconded and along next year; it is great company, the food is a signed by the nominee 28 days before the meeting, killer, and you can sleep it all off there on the lawns so there is still time to do that now. – and you’ve paid for it! Thanks again to Phil and Margery for all their work and a very pleasant day. And what about that run or fish’nchip you were going to lead next year…? We had a stand at the Ridewell event at Preston Park where there was quite a bit of interest in the Till the next, looking forward to the camping club and we hope to see a few new members as a weekend, and I hope we all have an Indian summer. result. Bill’s ride came along with a small but welcome contingent. Oxford Section There was a good turn out at Ponteland, where Mick John Hillier Taylor’s group who went around the BMW factory all wished they were still basking on the banks of the Moselle – who wouldn’t. It sounded like another In July the section ran a check point for the ACU great trip, and the factory visit was of great interest National rally, Rosemary and Dave Hicks, Dave as BMW appeared to be hiding many joys to come Hawkins, Geoff Clough and myself sat up through from visitors’ eyes – a K1200 sports/tourer and the night stamping over one hundred and fifty riders derivatives of the new engine? At the same time cards through the Carterton checkpoint as they Graham and friends were “on the Continent” – watch made their way to the final meeting at Rugby, we out Europe - and joined the factory visit, then also made them tea and coffee, Dave Hicks showed resumed their route, with singular adventures such that he is a dab hand at cooking bacon and as an exploding gearbox, but generally entertaining. sausages which were very popular with the riders. We heard a bit more about Ann and Mike’s tour of the South of France the previous month, and that was another much enjoyed trip. The Cassington bike night on the 27th June was very good, the village was crowded with motorcycles A highlight of the evening was seeing Deb’s face of every type, it seemed that everybody and his as she emerged from Mick’s road rocket outfit after brother was there. only a short trip…. she had white knuckles, and her hair was a bit out of place. Hayawhat? On the 10th of July, Steve and Catherine Moxey Tours and trips appear to be getting popular with led a run to Ironbridge, what follows is Steve’s report more members within the section. If you are on the day: planning to do something or would like some company on a trip, pipe up at the Club nights, or use the BMW Forum. On Sunday July 10th the club run was to Ironbridge in Shropshire. The weather was very good and an By the time you read this BAMBURGH CAMPING intrepid group of riders were lured away from will be coming up. We have a subsidy this year, watching the British Grand Prix to take part. probably the last we will get, so come and get your Fortunately we managed to avoid any of the Grand Prix traffic by taking a cross-country route through 68 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 the Cotswolds. We lost our social secretary at Scottish Section Kidderminster to the Severn Valley Railway (Sorry Steve Shepley Steve but the temptation was too much) but nonetheless arrived safely in Ironbridge and promptly used up all the of the available motorcycle When Jim Wright moved up to the north coast we parking in one of the main car parks! all said, what do you want to live there for? He arranged a camping weekend at Dunnet Bay for The Ironbridge valley is the site of the start of the the beginning of July and now we know why he lives industrial revolution and has 10 museums in all. there. I thought Pitlochry was quiet. I thought it was Faced with this historical and cultural onslaught we windy in Pitlochry too. I was wrong on both counts. immediately retired to the Tontine Hotel for lunch, Pitlochry is in the middle of Scotland and it was still which was excellent. After sightseeing the ride split 190 miles up the A9 before I turned off for Dunnet; up to take different return routes. Everyone got back it is a very long way up. But oh, is it nice! The sun without incident except for the group that were led shone. The locals were friendly. The roads were up a Welsh mountain by their GPS. quiet, and I mean quiet. And the food in the pub was to die for. Don’t tell her in control of my diet but that sticky toffee pud was the best I’ve ever had, On the weekend of the 16-17th July the section and I’m a card carrying member of the Pudding had a camping event down in Kent and we had great Club! Thanks Jim, are you doing it again next year? time despite the fact there were only four of us. The site was very nice, the pub was a hundred yards The BMF Rally at Kelso (where we had the National) down the road and the sun shone! The rest of the was all you expect from a BMF Rally; noisy bands, team were John Mintern, Barry Carlton and Eric noisy campers, smashing people and lots of tattoos. (the chef) Hale, so called for his expertise at cooking I only went to check out what I had forgotten for the breakfast, all these chaps were in their 50’s and National but I enjoyed myself all the same. 60’s but retread teenagers while under canvas. We had such a good time we have decided to do it Coming up this month we have Alan Crawford’s again next year also talk of a camping weekend in Bunkhouse Weekend at Elphin, that’s just north of Wales. Ullapool and way down south for Jim Wright. Alan has organised the weekend in this private hostel so you have to be on your best behaviour and buy On 21st July, I went again to the Mallory Park track Alan a pint at the pub that’s miles away; just the day, in my opinion one of the best events put on by one, this is the Scottish Section! the club, thank you to Garth Forbes and Bob Bensley once again. I happily melted the tyres on And then at the end of the month we have the Glen the bike and chamfered my boots on the corners. Coe camping weekend on 30th September to 2 We even had James Luck (one of our members) October, by the shores of Loch Leven. In typical instructing on his R1100S. James is also leading a Scottish fashion there will be no special events run this month on the 11th September going to the planned in advance but there will almost certainly National Space Centre near Leicester, we will be be a ride out, a walk out and a sit in the pub. Further meeting at Jacks Hill Café on the A5 near Towcester details (if I can think of any) from me on 01975 at 9.15 to leave at 9.30, you could even breakfast 564199. at café as they serve a monster of a fry up. Following hot on the heels of Glen Coe, in fact it is on the 9th October, is the Section AGM; NOTE THE CHANGE OF DATE. This is your chance to pat all the committee on the back for the good work they have done over the year, and to buy them a coffee or two. Alternatively you can have a moan and do the job yourself next year. Venue is at the Log Cabin hotel, Kirkmichael and a light lunch will be provided. Speaking of doing the job yourself, I am standing down as Social Secretary so form an orderly queue at my door and I’ll tell you what is involved.

BMW Club Journal • September 2005 69 The last event for this year will be the St Andrew’s to name but a few. I counted at least forty-five Night Ceilidh on 26 November. Venue is the Log different varieties! If you don’t like sausages, they Cabin again, three course meal (Haggis, meat or also serve a variety of fish and other dishes. On fish or veggie and cold pud) and B&B on site. First the trip home we all chipped-in and bought cakes ones to book get the bed as there are only 13 rooms. and milk etc so that we could have a late stop in The meal is £10 each and B&B £15 each, book Haywards Heath, at George and Margaret Barlow’s. with Dick/Kate Boyd on 01343 870389, tell ‘em what Our thanks go to you all for coming out to play and you want to eat and then try and remember. to George and Margaret for their hospitality.

And speaking of doors, I have moved. I am now There was a good turnout of bikes for the Best Bike living up near Alford and the phone number above Competition, which after much deliberation by Bob is the one BT has promised to give me. If it doesn’t Porecha (the judge) and Norman Devonshire (his work then blame them. accomplice) was won by the following members:- Best Boxer; John Harrison, Runner-up; Brian Vaughan. Best K; Dave Deacon, Runner-up; Mick South East Section Foxwell, Special Award; Eddie Barnes. All prizes Brian Shears will be presented at the New Year Party. Our thanks go to you all for entering.

Ron Rugman had the somewhat dubious honour On the 23rd, Mike Shaw took us on a Saturday of starting Section events for July and made a great evening run through sometimes wet but interesting job of it by taking us to the Hollycombe Steam Fair, Kentish lanes. Very kindly he then led us to his in Hampshire. If you have not been to Hollycombe home for a wonderful hot meal, drinks and cakes and you are interested in anything driven by steam organised by his wife, Val. Our thanks go to Mike then this is the place for you. Ron purposely picked and Val; daughter Trudy and husband Neil, for an the one weekend in the Hollycombe calendar, which excellent evening that even the damp conditions was of the greatest interest. Not only were there could not spoil. Mike is not 100% at the moment the usual steam trains and steam driven Edwardian and we all wish him a speedy return to good health. fairground to take rides on but a large gathering of working traction engines had also been planned just The next Journal will carry Mick Foxwell’s report on for that day. And work they did! Members were his run to Boughton on Water. seen whizzing around on the ‘gallopers’, flying up in the air on the ‘big wheel’ and going green on the Just a quick reminder to dig out those photographs ‘boats’. We were like butterflies on a buddlia, not for the Photographic Competition on the 7th knowing where to settle next! The day shot past September. The categories are ‘Action’, ‘Just until steeped in the aroma of steam and coal smoke Bikes’, ‘Scenic’ and ‘Humorous’. and with flecks of soot hanging from our eyebrows we headed home. Our thanks go to Ron for picking By popular demand, the FINAL closing date for an interesting route on good roads combined with the Logo Competition is also the 7th September an interesting place to visit. It wasn’t a day just for … Ho, Ho! Please bring your entries along. the boys; the ladies thoroughly enjoyed it as well!

The day before my so-called ‘Brian’s Bash’, South West Section Margaret and I had planned and driven a route to Les Madge Emsworth, near Portsmouth, selecting shady roads for the promised hot day to come. Luckily, the weather forecast was right and the shady roads proved to be a winner and very welcome! The run Here is a write up and picture for the South West was a pure and simple ride-out, through quiet and Section Ride to, Picnic and visit to the Cobbaton interesting roads, with just a lunch stop planned at Combat Collection for inclusion in the section news ‘The Sussex Brewery’, at Emsworth, who dish up please. the most comprehensive selection of super, sizzling, sausages imaginable. There were so many different Nine of us met in the shady area of the car park at sausage fillings that we were ages trying to make Morrisons in Tiverton for the ride to Cobbaton. It our choices. There was the ‘Samuel Pepys’, the was 10.30 and already very hot (we usually ‘Greenwich Smokey’ and ‘The O’Hagan Special’, complain about the rain) but this Sunday was to be

70 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 A. Rowland. Fred Secker Trophy for oldest BMW, P. Jordan. David Hornsby Cup for best modified BMW, C. Crocker. Howard Truscott Award for most outstanding Boxer, N. Schubert. Keith Parnell Trophy for Best K, R. Beer. Vincent & Jerrom Cup for best used bike, D. Cantrell. Members Trophy awarded by BMW Club Members voting for their favourite ‘bike, N. Schubert. After the success of the day Nick had to ‘phone for assistance transporting all of all his trophies home. The barbecue that followed the prize giving was well received. Thanks must go to Chris, Sylv Crocker and their support team for helping to make the day a success. Tanks for the memories ? (groan!) Mid week natter nights have been poorly supported one of the hottest this summer. We set off at 11.00 so until further notice the two September meetings having explained to one member how to remove the will be the last. quilted lining from his jacket) and followed the old Mike Groves will be ordering good weather for the A361 from Tiverton to South Moulton, here we forthcoming Rabbit Rally, so don’t forget to book joined the Torrington road and rode on to the turning your pitch. Helen & John’s Mystery Tour sounds for Chittlenampton. It was then through the village interesting, so I’ll have to go just to see. Departs and lanes until we reached Cobbaton. I planned Exeter Services at 1000 hrs. prompt. Please don’t my route on the basis that if I could get the rear forget your section committee needs you, so get wheels of the trike through the lanes those behind those nomination papers in by the end of on bikes would not scratch their cylinder heads. September. Having arrived, we disrobed, met with 2 members who’d rode directly there, then crabbed our picnics and headed into the shaded area under the trees, behind an armoured personnel carrier to have lunch. After lunch we went in around the collection which is the hobby of one man who has all sorts of militaria from riffles used in the Boar War to equipment used in the Gulf War, including tanks, lorries, self propelled guns, armoured cars, etc. Following the visit it was back to the shade of the picnic area for an ice cream or drink before we made our way home.

Chris Crocker Helen Beer writes. Despite the days dreadful weather and the depressing forecast 26 turned up (some even on bikes!) for this popular annual gathering. The rain stayed away, we ignored the mist and fought off the seagulls to enjoy delicious F & C with sea views. The banter continued in our garden, house and garage whilst vast quantities of cake and hot drinks were consumed – no calorie watchers present! Many thanks to all who attended and made it an enjoyable evening. Our annual Concours d’Elegance held within the grounds of the Globe Inn, Sampford Peverell was well supported and congratulations go to the following winners. CW Trophy for best Air Cooled Boxer, N. Schubert. Ocean Trophy for Best Oilhead,

BMW Club Journal • September 2005 71 one way system - ‘Lap times improved with each circuit’. Bath was basking in 29 degrees C, so after seeing ‘The Circle and Royal Crescent’ we retired to the shade of the park to chill out.

Alan and Carole Steed and their daughter Emma worked for weeks to prepare authentic paella for 24 members on 17 July. The event was expertly organised, the weather fantastic and we were fed and watered to a standstill. Then the daring, or the daft had a swim in the sea. Great day, many thanks.

Another run, another meal, a familiar chant in the Southern Section. This time Myf and I led the group to Mother Kelly’s at Portchester for fish and chips. In full flow ! Give them food and they’re happy, works every time.

Twelve people joined Dave and Leslie Goldsmith for their run to the Royal Marines Museum at Southern Section Southsea on 24 July. We rode through torrential David Williamson rain and on arrival turned the café into paddling pool. However, the staff were extremely helpful and soon Five intrepid Southern Section members set out in had us organised and then set about draining the the middle of the night to ride the picturesque route room. Damp but invigorated we enjoyed the to Dover for the 07:30 Speedferry to Boulogne, excellent museum. Fortunately the sun appeared enroute to Garmisch Partenkichen. and we claimed a marquee in the grounds (erected as part of an out door concert that had been forced We joined with a group from the Northern Section inside) to eat our picnic. At this point Gail and Phil that we had met at Beaulieu National Rally and a arrived and told us that they had tried to flag the good time was had by all. On the Saturday evening group down earlier that morning as they had run there was a draw for a GS Adventurer. It was won out of petrol. None of us had stopped, as we did by a French rider. Oh well at least we got the not want to loose our leader who was riding with Olympics! his usual vigour despite the wet. But some had waved which Gail assured us had made them feel The weather over the weekend was a trifle wet but a lot better as they stood in the pouring rain. So a at least it turned out fine for breaking camp and we big sorry to Gail and Phil, The day was rounded off were all treated to a clear view of the imposing by an excellent concert by the band of the Royal mountains before we left for the long trip home. Marines. Thanks to Dave and Leslie for a great day. Bill Kennedy reports; on Sunday 10 July 10 bikes and 13 members met at Stockbridge for a run to September Bath, including 4 new members. Andy and Kim from Portsmouth, Steve from Blandford and Dave from Watch speedway on the Isle of Wight on 6 Sept; Salisbury. Good to see some new faces, hope you catch the 18.00 hrs fast cat from Portsmouth. enjoyed the day, please join us again. It’s the best Phone Nigel Page 01730 817782. way of getting to know other members. On 11 Sept Richard Tavener leads us to the Fox We used the ‘drop off system’ via The Wallops, Talbot Photographic Museum at Lacock Abbey Nr Stonehenge, West Lavington and Westbury. An Devizes. Phone Richard 01252 838384 for details interesting and varied route. We lost no one (must or meet Lily Langtry’s Café, Stockbridge at 10:45. revise this drop off system, people have obviously got the hang of it). Camping 17-18 Sept at the Merry Harrier at Hambledon, phone Nigel Page 01730 817782 for However, once at Bath some of the group details. entertained us by executing several circuits of the On 25 Sept a breakfast run to Shoreham Airport Flying club for 10.00.

72 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 October There wasn’t any guest speaker at the club meeting on Tuesday 2nd August and so it turned into The walk on the 2 October has been cancelled. something of a “natter night.” And there was plenty to natter about. Try your hand at clay pigeon shooting on Saturday Perhaps the subjects covered in most depth was 8 Oct. Meet Newlands Corner at 09.30, but please the standard of service experienced by section book in advance with Richard Evans Tel 01372 members when getting their bikes serviced or 378196. repaired at Hurst’s BMW Motorrad. And this wasn’t just the usual wailing and gnashing of teeth The Section AGM takes place at Rake Village Hall expected from our Ulstermen when they’re asked on 23 Oct at 11.00 so start thinking what you want to hand over good money. These men had solid in the calendar for 2006 as there has been precious recent examples of what they called “poor service.” little to do this year. One well-respected member of long-standing cited Meet at Safeways Devizes 11.00 for breakfast on as an example how he had brought his recently 30 Oct. purchased R1200ST back for a service. When he picked the bike up afterwards it was no longer Finally the Christmas bash will be on 26 Nov at running properly and so he had to bring it back to Midhurst, come and learn some simple jive to get have this new fault rectified. Another man said that you in the spirit. he had nearly fallen off his R1150RT after having collected it following a routine service. The seat hadn’t been refitted properly. Two other men said Ulster Section that their bikes had been overfilled with engine oil Michael Sweeney at routine servicing and that they had to sort it out themselves afterwards. Another chap claimed that not long ago he had been charged £800 for a clutch replacement on an R1150RT. Ouch! First off, we’ll get news of any recent runs out of One or two people also quietly suggested that the the way. Geoff Lomax was unable to make the Geoff individual in charge of the service end of the Lomax “Birthday Bash” run on 17th July but it went business could perhaps benefit from retraining in ahead splendidly without him. the skills of handling customers. All of the participants said that they had had a Just to add my own tuppenceworth, I had my GS thoroughly good day’s riding but strangely when Adventure serviced in March in Hurst’s. When I got pressed, were not sure exactly where they had home I noticed that one of the plastic inserts from been. (Suspect some early onset Alzheimer’s the rocker covers was now missing. Rather than here)The Sperrins were mentioned by one chap and get involved in a heated debate with the service another thought that he had some recollection of manager about where it had gone, I simply phoned being in Limavady. Or was that the lavatory? But Motobins and ordered a new one by mail-order from they did agree that they remembered having lunch England. We really shouldn’t have to do this kind in a garden centre in Claudy. Or was it the Botanical of thing. Gardens in Fivemiletown? It’s so hard to remember. Best wishes are extended to Mr. Lomax as he In order to settle all the angry men down Tommy begins his new career as an ambulance man. told one of his classic jokes. It went something like this. Four people from the Ulster Section went to the annual BMW bike event held in Garmisch and had An American is on holiday touring rural Ireland in a great time to themselves. Over 30,000 people his Cadillac and he gets a puncture. He pulls into a turn up to this event every year and much of it, quiet filling station and asks the attendant “Hey camping for example, is provided free by BMW. Our Buddy got an airline?” The attendant looks at him heroes also took themselves off to the Italian in surprise and replies “An airline? Mister we don’t Dolomites and found a smashing biker-friendly hotel even have a bus service.” which provided top quality food and lodging at a very reasonable price.

BMW Club Journal • September 2005 73 Mutual Aid Mutual Aid Adverts are to enable BMW Club Members to buy or sell motorcycles or related items that they own. The service is free but subject to the rules below and excludes trade advertisers. 1. Note adverts are NOT accepted over the phone send them by 7. Please note the copy deadline in the Journal and understand post to the Mutual Aid Officer: Owen Vaughan, 16 South which edition it applies to before querying why your advert hasn’t Meadows, Pembroke, Pembs. SA71 4E, or by e-mail: appeared two weeks after you sent it! Please do not leave it to the [email protected] (Please remember to include copy date until you send your advert as we are very busy then: It’s your full postal address). Phone queries only between 10:00 – First Come, First Served at closing time! 20:00 please, to 01646 683188. . 8. The BMW Club cannot be held responsible for the quality or 2. All adverts should be readable and punctuated. Please TYPE, availability of items or goods or for any arrangements for delivery PRINT or e-mail clearly using a standard font. Fancy script might or payment. look pretty but is hard for us to read! 9. Adverts from non - club members may be accepted in special 3. The maximum length is 50 words, excluding your phone circumstances. For information, please contact the Mutual Aid number and name. If you wish to use more than 50 words your Officer. option is to pay for the advert at 20p a word for the WHOLE advert. Business Advertisement (Disclosure) Order 1977 Payment with advert before submission. Note one advert/month Any advertiser who places an advertisement concerning the sale of per section. At the editor’s discretion adverts can be edited where goods being sold in the course of business shall clearly indicate this deemed necessary due to space. fact. This applies whether the advertiser is acting on their own behalf 4. In your advert, include your forename and one phone number. or for another party. If you have reason to believe that you have been Extra phone numbers, times to call, e-mail addresses, web sites misled as to the status of any advertiser, please inform your local Trading etc will be excluded. Standards Department and the Editor immediately. The fine for 5. You must include your name, full address, Section and breaches of this order is up to £1,000. membership number; these will not be published but we will check membership. 6. Mutual Aid Adverts are accepted for a one-month insertion only. Any subsequent submissions are the responsibility of the advertiser.

MOTORCYCLES FOR SALE NOTE: OCTOBER JOURNAL COPY DEADLINE IS 1ST SEPTEMBER 2005

F650GS Dakar 2000, ‘W’ reg, low mileage. One K100RS 16V 1990 ‘G’ reg, 35,500mls, Metallic owner from new, long MOT, VGC, supplied by Green. Top box, panniers, high screen, Comfort Brackens. £2950 ono Andrew Tel 01233 851112 seat, s/s fasteners, new tyres.T&T 04/06. £2400 (Kent) Trev Tel 01778 422971 K75RT 1994 30,000 miles. MOT 07/06, Tax 11/05. K100RS 16V 1991, 39,000 miles, Blue/white check. Gd cond, panniers, topbox. No problems, I just Matching luggage, T&T 08/06. Original condition, prefer twins. £1750 ono. Pete Tel 01543 377777 absolutely clean. Comfort saddle, new tyres. £1975 (West Mids) Peter Tel 01494 711623 (Bucks). K75S 1989 ‘F’ reg, 100,000 miles, Red. MOT 07/ K100RS 16v 1992 ‘K’ reg, 28,000 miles, Pearl 06, Tax 11/05 3 months, BMW panniers & h/grips, White. T&T, front & rear ohlins,new BT010 tyres, h/ Comfort seat & original, Clymer manual. £850 Steve grips, full bmw luggage, spyball alarm, ex cond Tel 01253 778719 (Lancs) £2850 Milo Tel 07941 608761 (Staffs) K100LT 1987 ‘E’ reg, 38,000 miles, Metallic Gold. K100RT 1987 ‘D’ Reg. 73,000 miles, White, T&T FSH, T&T ,new tyres & battery, 2 owners, present lots of s/s parts, new battery & rear tyre, extra owner 15 years. Immac cond, many extras, tank gauges, h/grips, comfort seat, panniers. Gd cond, bag, custom pannier inners, face off radio cassette, my bike for the last 11 years. £1800 ono Tom Tel BMW High screen with custom dash. £1850 ono 01738 634117 (Perth). John Tel 01224 823689 (Scotland) K1100LT ‘J’ reg, 48,350 miles, Blue. ABS, h/grips, K100LT 1990, 86,000 miles. Gd cond Euros 3,000 elec screen, crash bars, new new rear tyre, tank Chris Tel 053 38921 (Eire) bag, ex cond, T&T 04/06 £2500 David Tel 01458 K100RS 16v 1990, ‘G’ reg, 57,000 miles, Astral 273621 (Somerset) blue, Colour coded panniers & top box, very good K1100RS 1993 ‘K’ reg, 62,000 miles, Black, MoT tyres, maintained by Mick Barr last 6 years. VGC 09/05, Tax 10/05, ABS, panniers & inners, Baglux £2000 ono Terry Tel 01572 755292 (Rutland) tank cover, recent Bridgestone 020 tyres, new

74 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 battery, Secdem flip screen & original, owner R80 Monlever 1985 ‘E’ reg, 28,000 miles. emigrating £2150 Richard Tel 07961 317207 Unleaded, Datatag, windscreen, panniers, s/s (London) silencers, legshilds, tankbag, tool kit, garaged. Ill K1100RS 1995 ‘N’ reg, 36,000 miles, Mystic Red. health forces reluctant sale £1500 George Tel 0151 VGC, panniers, tank bag, h/grips, manual, nearly 4244006 (Ches) new Macadam, long T&T, £2750 Ian Tel 07817 R80RT 1984, 39,000 miles, Red. Immac cond, 700838 (West Mids) always garaged, owned for the last 15 years, T&T, K1200RS 2000, ‘W’ reg, 12,749 miles, Grey/ s/s fasteners, tank cover & bag, powder coated graphite. T&T. good tyres, with a 180 rear, serviced wheels, original tool, first aid kit & panniers. One of at 10,000 miles, panniers, Datatagged. Garaged. the best, four times concourse winner, £1,900 ovno £4900 ono. Mark Tel 01225 351208 (Wilts) Brian Tel 01392 467635 (Devon) K1200RS 2003, 21,000 miles, Blue/White. Immac, R80RT 1994 ‘M’ reg, 13,000 miles, Classic Black. garaged. ABS, h/grips, high bars & screen. fairing Original & Immac cond, full luggage, tank bag h/protectors. Thatcham approved Meta immobilizer/ harness, h/grips FBMWSH £2950 ovno Mike Tel alarm. Tank Bag. Colour coded panniers with liners. 01709 518559 (Yorks) Ill health forces reluctant sale. £7550. Dave Tel 0117 R80RT 1994, 45,000 miles, Red. Gd cond, FSH, s/ 9771453 (Bristol) s exhaust, BMW panniers & top box, tool kit. New K1200RS Schnitzer, ‘03’ reg, 10,000 miles, black/ rear tyre, T&T 07/06, recent service, progressive metalic grey. ABS, servo brakes, leather seat, billett fork springs, braided front hose, K&N filter, h/grips, alloy wheels, new 020 bridgestone tyres, cruise con, rear fog light. £1800 Bob Tel 01733 576395 (Cambs) h/grips, catalist exhaust, remus can, one of three R80ST 1984, 36,000 miles, Metallic grey. MOT 01/ sold by bmw in the country. Genuine reason for sale 06, SORN. Ex cond throughout, fitted screen, £ 7995.00 ovno Nick Tel 01503 220179 (Cornwall) Corbin seat, panniers, uprated suspension & front R25/3 1965, Black. Unrestored, V5 & original log brakes, Odyssey battery, Ultrasealed very good book £1300 ono. Probate sale Glenyse Tel 0116 tyres. £2395 ono. Richard Tel 01626 332353 2419316 (Leics) (Devon) R50 1959, Black. V5, unrestored engine & frame R80ST 1984, 42,000 miles approx, Red. New have matching numbers £2500 ono Probate sale speedo, GS h/bars, footpegs & bashplate, T&T, h/ Glenyse Tel 0116 2419316 (Leics) grips, luggage & touring screen. Gd cond, recent R51/3 1953, Black. V5C compleated restoration for tyres, loads of s/s fasteners, progessive fork germany tour. 2002 engine & frame, have matching springs, renewed rear shock, coil, voltage reg, numbers £4500 ovno Probate sale Glenyse Tel unleaded conversion. Offers over £1500 Alan Tel 0116 2419316 (Leics) 07966 580640 (Lancs) R65 1979, 20,000 miles, Red. 2 owners, Tax 10/ R80ST 1984, 100,00 miles plus. In working order, 05, MOT 07/06. BMW screen, panniers, new rear needs restoration. Offers Tel 0208 6611061 (Surrey) tyre, £1600. Brian Tel 01792 850809 (S. Wales) R90S 1975, 50,000 miles Silver Smoke. Luggage, R65 Mono 1988, 63,000 miles, Silver. ‘S’ fairing, original ex cond, generally overhauled, unleaded tall screen, Hienrich w/defectors, crash bars, conversion, optical ignition. Many many new parts, surefoot, s/s silencers & balance pipe, city panners, T&T £3950 Peter Tel 01494 711623 (Bucks). recent tyres, baglux tank cover, h/grips. MOT on R100GS, 1989, 59,400 miles White/Blue. Panniers, sale £1550 ono Steff Tel 0115 9721149 (Notts) single & dual seats, clock, voltmeter, baglux tank R75/5 1973, 59,000 miles. Showroom cond, BMW cover. Cylinders & gearbox rebuilt, new clutch & panniers, s/s fittings, Taxed, MOT 07/06, complete swinging arm, other extras. T &T, Offers over £2250 with brand new hydraulic work bench £2950 Tom Owen Tel 01646 683188 Tel 01352 810478 (N. Wales) R100R 1992, 9,500 miles, Classic Black. Immac R75/6 1976, Smoke Red. T&T new seat, s/s exhaust cond throughout, one mature owner, many extras, system, 5 speed box, runs like a watch. Electric & FSH, MOT 07/06. Consider part ex, good late /6, kick start. £1350 or consider swop for early Honda see Wanted ad. £3250 ono Cliff Tel 01202 896157 (Dorset) 4 cylinder cash either way. Sam Tel 01928 722297 R100R 1993, Black. MOT 04/06, Tax 10/05, Gd (Ches) cond. £2000. Ian Tel 02392 786354 or 07786 R80/7 1978, Black. MOT 07/06 s/s exhaust, konis, 807102 (Hants) (Non Mbr) recent overhaul for unleaded petrol. £1500 Brian R850R, 1995, 23,600 miles Mystic Red. VGC, long Tel 01792 850809 (S. Wales) T&T, new tyres, £2300 ono. Jpegs available. Ian Tel 01782 372544 (Staffs) BMW Club Journal • September 2005 75 R100R Mystic Ltd Edition 1994, 33,000 miles. Mint stand, seat cover, 5.5 inch rear wheel. FBMWSH, cond, Hepco & Becker chrome rack, chrome cyl/ all docs & keys. £6200 ono. Poss p/ex F650 plus guards, h/guards, panniers, inner bags. Recent cash. Dave Tel 01553 819722 (Norfolk) battery & clutch. T&T 07/06. Box of spares. FSH, R1150RS 2001, 7,800, Silver. T&T, two new tyres with invoices. £2650 John Tel 01751 472408 recent dealer service, panniers, Baglux harness/ (Yorks). tank bag in black, garaged. £5500ono Mark Tel R850R 1999 16,500 miles Dark Grey. Screen, 01225 351208 (Wilts) panniers, recent new tyres, cruise control lever, R1150RS 2001,11,000 miles, Blue, TAX 02/06 MOT, MOT 04/06, VGC, £3750. Might trade F650. Rab Smart Cond. H/grips, ABS, Alarm/Imobeliser Tel 028 9066 2948 (Nrth Ireland) Datatool, top box & Panniers £5,000 Dave Tel 07720 R850R 2002 ‘52’ reg, 6,500 miles, Titan Silver. 414406 (Ches) Sports screen, h/grips, pannier rails, FBMWSH. R1150RT 2001, ‘Y’ reg, 14,500 miles, Met Red. One Garaged, Immac cond £3950. Terry Tel 01403 owner, immac & mechanically faultless, FSH, h/ 734717 (Sussex) grips, cyl/guards, fenda extender, gd Ulrasealed R1100GS 1994, 38,000 miles, Red. Panniers, tall tyres. Topbox available £5900 Howard Tel 01892 screen, FSH, T&T, £3400 ono. Swop for Muscle 870381 (Kent.) bike similar price. Steve Tel 07900 488634 (Wirral) R1150RT 2002 ‘52’ reg, 18,500 miles, Titan silver. R1100R, 1995, 43,000 miles, Red. T&T, ABS, FSH, h/grips,full luggage, tank bag, meta alarm/ screen, BMW panniers & tank bag, clock/rev immobiliser, cyl/guards, autocom, Datatagged, dual counter set, h/grips, h/guards, fender extender. horn, sheepskin seat covers, garaged, ex cond, Fitted MFW handlebar conversion kit with Renthal £6800 Andy Tel 01772 455512 (Lancs) bars, standard bars included. As new tyres recent R1150RT 2003, 12,000 miles, Metallic Grey. H/ service, Ex cond. £2850 Caroline Tel 01606 782159 grips, full luggage package, radio cassette, (Cheshire) Autocom, alarm / immoboliser, sat nav, FSH, £8,350 R1100R 75 Anniversary Ltd Edition 1998 ‘R’ reg, ovno Jim Tel 07967 592244 (Yorks) 7,500 miles, Classic Black. 1 owner, ABS, BMW R1150RT 2003, 9,800 miles, Biarritz Blue. Twin screen, h/grips, pannier rails, MOT 05/06, Tax 10/ Spark, FBMWSH, h/grips, BMW panniers, cyl/ 06, immac cond, £4350 John Tel 01691 650920 guards, fender extender, Meta Alarm/immobiliser. (Shrops) Ultrasealed mich/mac tyres. Garaged no winter use, R1100RS 1996 ‘P’ reg, 25,000 miles, Red. ABS, h/ ex. cond. £7450 Ronnie Tel 028 703 43629 (Ulster) grips, luggage rack, accepts top box, panniers, inner R1200CL 2004, 1700 miles. 1 years manufacturers bags, Multivarion tank bag. Last owner over 8 years warranty, h/grips, ABS, cyl & pannier crash bars, £3250 Dave Tel 0191 5293009 (Sunderland) Taxed. Dealer serviced. £6,750. Barrie Tel 01458 R1100RT 1997 ‘P’ Reg. 60,000 miles, Glacier 273318 (Somerset) Metalic Silver. Panniers, h/grips, radio/cassette, Francis Barnett Cruiser 80, 250 cc, 1958, running ABS, hazards, T&T, FBMWSH, £2995 ono Tim Tel well & on the road. New tyres, gd cond & chrome, 07968 627 612 (S. Wales) bargain for future classic owner £750 ono Martin R1100RT 1998 Anniversary, ‘S’ Reg, 50,000 miles, Tel 01457 834970 (Manchester) Silver. FBMWSH, h/grips, panniers, liners, box, cyl/ H-D FXDX Superglide Sport 1999, 21,500 miles. guards, 12v sockets, radio fittings, GS Intakes, 1 owner, 1550 big bore kit, mikuni carb, S&S gear garaged, manuals & Continental H/Lamp. VGC drive conv, Pro one alloy wheels & harrison 4 pot £4950 Graeme Tel 07710 961863 (Wilts) brakes, Goodrich hose, progressive fork springs, R1100RT 1998, 55,400 miles, Met Green. SH, T&T Konis, s/s fasteners, Sundowner seat, sissy bark 07/06, top box, new tyres, immac cond, two rack, and much more. Offers over £7500 Alan Tel owners from new. Genuine reason for reluctant 07966 580640 (Lancs) sale £4200 ono John Tel 01959 572551 (Kent) Honda Blackbird 1997, 68,000 klms. Scotoiler, full R1100S Sport 2002 ’52’ reg, 7,000 miles, Dakar touring setup, very comfortable. Euro 7,000 Chris Yellow. 1 owner, Evo ABS, power brakes, h/grips, Tel 053 38921 (Eire) colour coded rear hugger & belly pan, colour coded Honda CB750 SOHC F1 1978, 31000 miles. MOT luggage available. Summer use only immac cond. 07/06, new tyres &seat, well sorted, runs very good. Emigrating £5995 Steve Tel 07961 480300 £850 Sam Tel 01928 722297 (Cheshire) R1100S Twin spark 2003, 10,000 miles, Pacific Honda Fireblade 1997, 25,000mls, Black. Ex cond. Blue. Colour matched panniers, ABS, h/grips, centre 2 owners, data tagged, hugger. £2300 Trev 01778

76 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 422971 (Lincs) Honda Hornet ‘S’ reg, 8,845 miles. Ex cond, T&T, BITS & BOBS h/grips, luggage rails, bellypan, engine bars, hugger, new avon azaro tyres, sports screen, lowered & Autocom PRO 3000 Intercom unit £85 Power standard seat, one owner from new £2400 Yvonne supply to run off bike £20. Two System 4 helmets Tel 01482 667111 (Yorks) 58/59 & 52/53 with headsets & mic’s £125 each. Honda Transalp XL650V, 2002, 3,900 miles, All together £310. Great for two up riding. Ex cond Metallic red. H/grips, c/stand, scotoiler. One owner, . Steve 07968 143 979 (Sheffield) ex cond, superb value £3495 Peter Tel. 01758 BMW AG Parts Book for K75, all models to 1995. 613401 (N.Wales) Part Number 01 00 9797 590. In German but all Honda XR125C, ’03’ Reg, 1,663 miles, Black. Mint parts illustrated. Little used, £27.50 inc p&p in UK. cond, 3 months tax & warranty, £1665 ono Colin, Derek Tel 01386 792767 (Worcs) Tel 0121 357 4644 (Birmingham) BMW Classic panniers. Gd cond, but no frame. Moto Guzzi Centauro, 1998 13 000 miles, £30 inc. p&p ono. Henry Tel 01384 440630 (Worcs) Anthracite. Gd cond, new tyres, Creedon chip, s/s BMW comfort gloves size 9 – 9.5. Four seasons, X-over pipe & Carbon Hugger. Just had 12,000 cordura & leather with Schoeller PCM inner, service & MOT’d. £3500 Paul Tel 01522 530355 Breathable, wind & waterproof. Like new £35 plus (Lincoln) p&p Ray Tel 0121 258 0230 (B’ham) Moto Guzzi EV1100 Californian 2002, 1,450 miles, BMW leathers grey & blue, ladies jacket/salopettes 2 tone blue. As new, Must sell, owing to costly boat size 10 exc cond £75 ono.Weise all in one building project, Richard Tel 01539 725117 waterproof suit black XL £15 ono plus p&p Tony Tel (Cumbria) 01386 871135. (Worcs) Suzuki DL1000 V-STROM 2002 ‘02’ reg, 10,000 BMW panniers, with keys & frames for R65. Ernest miles. MOT 07/06, Alphadot, Scottoiler, centre Tel 0114 2311052 (Yorks) stand, full Givi luggage, tall screen & original. BMW Sportintegral full face helmet, size 56/57, Pensioner`s summer tourer, never used in winter, silver, worn twice, found to be too small. Half price garaged, SH, Ex cond, £3,750 ono Ron Tel 01597 at £95 John Tel 01963 210866 (Dorset) 851449 (Powys). BMW tank bag for K1, black with yellow piping £50 Triumph Bonneville 2004, 1,600 miles, Black. plus p&p or collect Mick Tel 01652 661224 (Lincs) Over £700 worth of accessories inc Triumph loud BMW Trickle charger with accessory socket plug. pipes, touring seat, centre stand, luggage rack, 2 yrs old, in gd cond £10. Non BMW 6 or 12 volt Scottoiler, knee pads, screen, plus all standard trickle charger with accessory socket plug £10. Both parts. Why buy new ? Warranty remaining £3995. plus p&p. Robin Tel 0151 427 7146 (Liverpool) Nelson Tel 01242 243311 (Glos) Breaking R75/6 1977. Most parts available. Craven Yamaha XT600E, ‘52’ reg, 4,600 miles, Blue. Tax Equipment panniers with frames, white Martin Tel 11/05, garaged, LED rear tail light & small halogen 01795 535653 (Kent) indicators, originals available, fun bike, cheap Complete hydraulic steering damper kit will fit most insurance, ex cond. £2195. Robin Tel 01925 763691 post 1970 2v boxers £30. Standard fork springs off (Cheshire) R80RT mono £10. Rear monoshock including Yamaha 900 Diversion 1998, 34,000 miles, spring & adjusting spanner £50 all plus p&p Dave Burgundy. T&T 03/06, h/grips, Givi pannier/top box Tel 01423 884741 (Yorks) rack, recent rear tyre, new plugs, brake pads & air For R1100RT sidestand, centre stands with fittings, filter, runs lovely, VGC, good tourer/commuter , Bagaster tank cover, top box. Some ‘K’ series parts, £2000 ono Martin Tel 07812 572204 (Derbys) R80/R100 panels Keith Tel 0115 9279483 (Notts) For R1150RT BMW topbox as new £130. Clear cee Bailey 3.5" tall screen £50. Tank bag used once, needs velcro stri £75. Touratech handlebar lockable GPS mount & bracket for Garmin Quest, used once £40. Mototechniques handlebar risers £20. All plus p&p or collect. Martyn Tel 0161 288 8809 (Manchester) F650GS scorpian s/s exhaust, oval less than 1000miles cost £200 sell £70. Givi rack for givi box cost £85 sell £35 John Tel 07764 155573 (Suffolk)

BMW Club Journal • September 2005 77 GIVI metal topbox rack £10. Pr /7 rockerboxes £20. legs. £90 (inc rider & pillion). Chris Tel 01252 815763 R1100 fuel filter £4. Windscreen 21" x 17" high £15. (Hants) Windscreen 17" x 15" high £20. Pr Triumph Sprint Repair Manual, comprehensive loose leaf rear indicator lights £15. Surefoot sidestand £20. document, BMW part No 01 519 599 041, for R60/ Yamaha FJ1200 s/s front brake hoses. £10 Terry 7 – R100. Haynes Manual R60/7 – R100 £15 for Tel 01926 497705. (Warks) both, collect or plus p&p. Roger Tel 01869 347543 Gold Top Leather Motorcycle Boots size 7, new (Oxfs) still in the box. £65 ono Plus p&p Tom Tel 01382 RH pannier for R1150GS plus spare lock & key 534269 (Scotland) £65 plus p&p David Tel 01491 874052 (Berks) Handle bar riser/setback kit, 1”/1.25”, for R850 – RT fairing complete top section, mint in red £160. 1150 series £25. Peter 01606 782159 (Cheshire) R80/7 engine less flywhell & heads, 32mm carbs, Haynes service & repair manual, BMW R850 & R100 heads, alloy air filter housing 34/11 bevel box, 1100 4 valve twins, 93 – 97, VGC. £10 inc UK p&p. 33/11 bevel box, 2 pr engine bars, 1 pr shockers, David Tel 01480 466298 (Cambs). front hub, swinging arm, box assorted small items Krauser City panniers & frames for twin shock The lot for £80 Ray Tel 01633 854737 (S. Wales) boxer VGC. Brackets supplied may need to be R100RS 1979 seat & cowl with badges. Seat rough, altered to fit different models. £80 Ralph Tel 01495 cowl OK £15. R75/7 subframe £25. flexi lock £15. 292646 (S Wales) All plus p&p Ralph Tel 01935 813767 (Dorset) Kyham Igloo tent, well used, free for spare parts. R100/80 RT fairing, 2 valve, silver. With brackets, 2 Therma rest self inflating air beds £20 Fred Tel no clocks or box lids. One extra hole in dash. 01794 501158 (Hamps) Reasonable condition. £150 Buyer collects. Allan Ladies leather jacket trials style size 16, suit small Tel 07970 206173 (Surrey) gent, VGC £50. Leather trousers all the normal R1100/1150GS top box & fittings £80. Baglux tank protection 34 inch waist, VGC £30 John Tel 01474 cover blue & white £35. Baglux tank bag, black £40. 812345 (Kent) /5, /6, /7 panniers couple of locs need sorting £75. New rear tyre Conti Blitz 130/90-17 68H TKH24 K1100LT tank bag, pannier & top box inners, £100. £40. Major service kit 8v K. Original filters £30. R51/ Ken Tel 01932 353851 (Surrey) 3 docked fishtail type pattern LH s/s silencer new R1150R front & rear seats, black, VGC £60. Large £35. All plus p&p or collect John Tel 01392 420268 Nonfango topbox complete with mounting plate £45. (Devon) R80/100GS front fairing/headlight protection bar Nivomat self-levelling rear shocks for twin shock £40. R80G/S standard sump guard £10 Peter Tel airhead, supplied with R90S, never used. ST1100 01606 782159 (Cheshire) Pan-European windscreen, new Honda original of R1150R BMW Multivario Tank Bag c/w raincover & early unvented type. Free collection or plus p&p fittings £75. Givi rear rack c/w all fittings & E36 Givi John Tel 01202 394557 (Dorset) top box £80, Rack only £25. Blue magnetic Oxford Pair of rear suspension units to lower seat height tank bag £30. All plus p&p. John Tel 01326 378565 on /5 - /7, very low mileage £65. Black leather (Cornwall) gloves, new size 9 – 10, large £9. Exhaust nut Sidecar bits s/s 2 into1 exhaust pipes 38mm, exit spanner, 9 combination, plug, & box spanners, Allen on right £70. Sidecar twin rear shocks, used, gd keys 25 items £18. Metric taps & dies CSCT £8 cond, off 1982 R100 38mm £80. All plus p&p Mick Brian Tel 01539 441130 (Cumb) Tel 01977 708608 (Yorks) R1150GS Remus ‘Revolution’ Titanium end can & Starcom Intercom / bike to bike radio system. 2 ‘Y’ piece & all fittings, little use, ex cond, will not starcom units inc cables ( powered from bike) 2 split £250. BMW Multivario tank bag for R1150GS Kenwood radios inc chargers. A state of the art complete as new. £65 John Tel 01905 28689 system cost £800 new. Had very little use, will (Worcs) except £450 ono. Mark Tel 01271 862937 (Devon) R1150GS Adv. Pair of wheels & Twinduro tyres, Summer Weight BMW, phasen trousers. Black with new bolts & front ABS ring, discs not inc. Slight with external, waterproof liners men’s size D58 / buckle in rear wheel, balances & rolls ok. £ 400. GB48, 40 ins waist. One season wear only, like new Glynn Tel 0121 4334521 (B’ham) £50 Bill Tel 01869 278639 (Oxfs) R1200GS Customised seats. Original seats re- Tank Bag for R1100GS contains Waterproof cover. upholstered with gel inserts by Mel Hunter of Used once. As new £95. Alan Tel 01902 742418, Custom Seats. They really stand out and look good. (Staffs) Genuine reason for sale. Suit person with smallish 2 Haynes W/shop maunals 1970 – 1985 for 473cc 78 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 to 979cc. 1970 – 1983 R50 – R100 £6 each. Riders Ohlins back shocker & genuine BMW workshop h/book R65 – R100RT £4. R100RS tinted screen manual for R1100GS Thomas Tel 00 353 684 9003 £15. All plus p&p Mike Tel 01270 877209 (Ches) (Ireland) 25 Classic Bike mags Nov 84 – Dec 93 £30. Pop out lights to replace the air vents on a 2v boxer Lightweight suede bomber style jacket in tan 44 RT fairing. Dave Tel 01423 884741 (Yorks) inch £35 or swap 46 – 48 leather or waxed cotton R100RS fairing panels, especially upper R/H jacket. Collins motorcycle workshop manual £5. The section.Steve Tel 01582 868090 (Beds) Milwalkee Marvel £10. All plus p&p Ralph Tel 01935 R100RT, late model, not red or green, any condition 813767 (Dorset) considered. David Tel 01480 393262 (Cambs) R850R comfort seat & lowered or forward rider foot WANTED rest kit. Robin Tel 01925 763691 (Cheshire) Small 4.5 gal petrol tank suitable for /5 or /6. Good BMW /6, must be in gd cond, low mileage, disc price paid or exchange for 6.5 gal petrol tank in brake model preferred Cliff Tel 01202 896157 good cond. Cliff Tel 01202 896157 (Dorset) (Dorset) Dual seat for 1991 R80/R100GS. Condition unimportant. Standard or compatible with 43L acerbis tank. Any area. Mick Tel 01622 812611 (Norfolk) I am trying to make up a database of independent Engine crash protection bars for K100 Fred Tel BMW repair shops. So if anyone knows of, or is, 01794 501158 (Hants) an independent repairer/service centre of BMW F650 Full details to Steff Tel 0115 9721149 (Notts) motorcycles, could they please contact me giving F650 plus cash for R1100S Twin spark, see Bikes name of establishment and whether the work done for sale or contact Dave Tel 01553 819722 (Norfolk) was good bad or indifferent. Best contact for me is F650 possible trade for R850R see Bikes for sale e-mail at [email protected] Thanks for your involvement. The reason that I am after this or contact Rab Tel 028 9066 0909 (Nrth Ireland) information is that I am continually asked this Front wheel for a 2001 R1150GS, round please, question, from members or perspective members tyre immaterial, discs if possible Dave Tel 0208 from all over the country. 4624461 (Kent) Near side pannier for K1200RS, buyer will collect. All the best Geoff Tel 01204 699877 (Lancs) Dick Boyd. Good low mileage R1150GS. Anthony Tel 07785 National Membership Sec. 931987 (Kent) Muscle bike for R1100GS see Bikes for sale or contact Steve Tel 07900 488634 (Wirral) SMALL BUSINESS ADVERTS

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4 STAR B&B in MACHYNLLETH. Luxurious ALMERIA VELEZ RUBIO. Farmhouse B&B 15 Euro bungalow,stunning Mid-Wales scenery. Hearty PPPN. Also self contained apartment sleeps 2/3, breakfasts,traffic-free roads. Lock-up garage. 01654 own private courtyard, pool, BBQ 150 Euros per 702562 www.dyfiguest.co.uk week. A92N 3km, Granada 1 ½ hours, beach 40 AE AVENTURES BASED NEAR TO SPA in a quiet mins.Secure parking. Phone Pat or Chris Payne village providing B&B and half board, secure 00 34 690152979. garaging, recommended touring in the Ardennes AN CALA GUEST HOUSE, Grantown-on-Spey. AA and Eiffel and escorted Nurburgring experience. 5 Diamonds. Ideal base for Highlands. Kingsize Motorcycling adventure only 3 1/2 hours from doubles, magnificient 4 poster. All rooms en-suite. Calais, that’s a bit special. See On site parking, also garage. £25-£30pp b&b. www.aeaventures.com or phone /fax 01479 873293 www.ancala.info Neil or Ann on 0032 80398788

BMW Club Journal • September 2005 79 AUSTRIA (Southern) – Summer/ Winter Sports. miles from Wigtown, 22 miles from Stranraer ferry Self Catering fully equipped flats (Sleep 2-5). terminal. Beautiful scenery and great biking roads. Superb touring roads & mountain passes. Close Shopping service on request. Short Breaks Italy/ Slovenia. Excellent amenities. Secure Parking. available. Sorry No smoking/pets. Tel: 01671 Cyril/ Liz Cannard (Bikers). Tel/Fax: 0043 4769 830422 mail: [email protected] 26415. E-mail: [email protected] www.duddingstonelodge.co.uk B&B / SELF CATERING near French Pyrenees. FRANCE - CHARENTE MARITIME Tel. 0033 56194 1045. www.goodier-pyrenees.com REGION,House sleeping 4/6 people on outskirts B&B CALVADOS / NORMANDY. Destination of riverside Village,five minutes to Normandy or en-route stop? Great meals, secure bars,restaurants,shops etc. 30 minutes to the garage/drying, ideal UK ferries. Details http:// Atlantic Coast/Royan/La Rochelle/Cognac. Only 4 perso.wanadoo.fr/bandbjanville/ or phone / fax +33 hours from St Malo, surrounded by quiet biking (0)231391037 Roads,lockable Garage. English house keeper, B&B Edinburgh, secure garage parking, colour tv, private enclosed garden.Please contact Lee or Viv tea & coffee, 15 minutes from city centre £30 pppn on Phone/Fax 01526 345866 /Email Tel 0131 669 3570 or 07931 718584 [email protected] or Mob 07947439630 BED & BREAKFAST, YORKSHIRE DALES, FRANCE - HONFLEUR, NORMANDY. Delightful Greenhills in Leyburn. Comfortable en-suite rooms 17th Century Cottage in quiet area. 4mins walk from with colour TV, tea & coffee. B&B from the picturesque ancient port. Popular with bikers. £25.00pppn. Lock-up garage available. Tel: 01969 2-3hrs from Calais, 20mins from LeHavre. 2 double 623859, E-mail: [email protected], bedrooms, lounge/diner, new fitted kitchen, shower web-site: www.greenhillsleyburn.co.uk. room. Central heating. TV/DVD/Radio/CD, fridge, BED AND BREAKFAST, MOFFAT, SOUTHERN microwave, washing machine. Tastefully decorated. SCOTLAND, B & B, garage parking, wonderful Beautiful views. Sleeps 6/7 people. Available all biking area. One mile from M74 J15 on Edinburgh year. scenic route. Why not break your long journey here Telephone Brian Ashley 0033 231 643526. Email: or spend a few days riding the local roads, enjoying boudincottage @hotmail.com the hills and bends. FRANCE – LOIRE ATLANTIQUE REGION, Club member. Chris 01683 220378 see Farmhouse, tranquil location, close to www.buchanguesthouse.co.uk Chateaubriant, Le Mans an hour away, surrounded BRITTANY - TOP QUALITY MOBILE HOMES on by miles of quiet motorbiking roads. B&B plus 2 coastal 4 star site in this tranquil region. ideal for gites, sleeping 8 and 4. Evening meals available, family holidays or Section rallies (as Westenr swimming pool. Mature owner active motorcyclist. Section June 04). great biking are with masses to Phone (00 33) 2 40 97 08 44, e-mail info@la- do and see. Big savings on ferry costs. janais.com Website www.la-janais.com www.benodetbreaks.com or call Steve Jackson on FRANCE WELCOME TO THE LIMOUSIN 01543 473089 REGION. 1 bed cottage sleeps 4 or spacious barn. CHATEAU NORMANDY great character venue.£29 Country based, great biking roads. BMW member, half board inc. wine, or hire gite or chateau from 1150GS owner. Clive & Lesley Gibson. Tel 00 33 £1650 pwk. sleeps 28 555 637032 www.chateaulemontepinguet.co.uk or tel.00 33 FRENCH ALPS - ST. GERVAIS. Beautiful 4th floor 233419631 south facing apartment in luxury residence with lift. DISCOVER “HEART of the Charente Maritime”, Superb mountain views. 2mins walk from telecabin. France. Cynlyns, in a peaceful hamlet, renovated Gorgeous environment, paradise for skiers/walkers. & comfortable 4 bdrm, 3 bthrm Gite, sleeping 6-12. 2 double bedrooms, lounge/diner, shower room, Large salon/ fireplace/ mezzainine bedroom/ newly fully equipped kitchen area. Fridge, washing equipped kitchen/ 2-acre private park. Secure machine, dish washer, cooker, TV. Balcony, undercover parking / central heated. £495-£695 p/ garage, ski locker. Sleeps 6 people. Telephone: wk B & B available. John Hill 00 33 546971282. 00 Brian Ashley 0033 231 643526. Email: 33 679874418, e-mail [email protected] [email protected] DORDOGNE - Self catering gites with pools, biker GERMANY, BRITISH B&B,17th century friendly. B&B sometimes available. See house,rooms ensuite. Ideal for Rhein, Mossel valley www.lescasaniers.com or Tel (UK) 0871 7174249 Nurburgring, Mohn Dam, Cologne. Drying and DUMFRIES AND GALLOWAY, South West Laundry facilities, well stocked bar,Bar food.Email Scotland - 2 cosy wee s/c cottages each sleeps 2 [email protected] www.vinecottage.de Tel in twin beds. Quiet location adjacent our home. 4 00492742911728

80 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 GERMANY, BEAUTIFUL HARZ MOUNTAINS. 10 wanadoo.fr / www.thestonehouse-caux.com bedrooms all en-suite. Huge bar, Contact Nicky on 00 33 467 093820 conference room, restaurant. 2 underground SWITZERLAND GRINDELWALD, in the heart of garages, drying room, fantastic roads, scenery & the alps. Small hotel with new rooms en-suite. architecture. Friendly biker hosts that make you Extraordinary view to the mountains. Restaurant feel part of the family. Inexpensive, warm & cosy. and Bar. Save bike parking. Hotel Alpenblick, CH- [email protected] 3818 Grindelwald; www. Alpenblick .info Tel 00 41 www.hotel-harmoniebadgrund.org.uk Tel 0049 (0)33 853 11 05 5327 869860 WHITBY ROSEWOOD – Quiet B&B, 4 diamonds. LAKE DISTRICT B&B IN BOWNESS-ON- Silver award. Large double ensuite rooms, bath & WINDERMERE. Panoramic views of Bowness and showers, hospitality trays & fridges. Residents own lake. En-suite. Covered/lock-up parking. Leisure lounge with coal fire, TV & video. Tea and facilities. 015394 88658 Web: http:// sandwiches on arrival £25 pppn. Open all the year www.abovethebay.co.uk round Tel 01947 820534 LAKE DISTRICT. Peaceful 17th century barn in lake LYNBROOK INSURANCE for Special Member’s shore hamlet - just for two! Log fire. C.H. Garden. Schemes including Classic and Modern motorcycle Secure indoor bike space. Non-smoking. Breaks insurance (all makes) - plus Travel and Overseas available. Tel 01229 885643 or Breakdown arrangements. TEL 0845 130 4662 www.townyeatbarn.co.uk GOING OUT FOR A RIDE THIS WEEKEND? Need LOIRE ATLANTIQUE FRANCE, small friendly B & an accurate weather forecast ? Then check out the B quiet country location,meals available.Tel Dave free 5 day forecast from Weather Commerce Ltd. & Norma Harrison 00 33 2 40 07 06 71 e mail For National, European and Regional 14 day [email protected] Web site http:// forecasts log on to www.weathercommerce.net perso.wanadoo.fr/bandbcouetoux/ Director Chris Blowes is a member of the BMW LUXURY HOLIDAY BUNGALOW in Lake District Club and is happy to take consultation calls from National Park. Comfort for 4 plus garage. Ideally fellow members located for walking, motorcycling, and exploring the BMW seat specialist, 20 years experience many scenic byeways of this picturesque area. comprehensive service, SAE for information. Available April to November. Member owned. Tel www.motorcycleseatworks.co.uk. 366 to 370 01695 422210 Woodside Road, Wyke, Bradford. BD12 8HT. NORTH PORTUGAL- MINHO VALLEY.Penedes Damon Tel 01274 604672 Nation Park and Galicia.Interested?. We offer Pannier Inners R80/100/1100/1150RT/RS/GS/ farmhouse self catering and luxury B&B both with 850GS. Standard £60 Extended lid width £66 pair. pools. Come and sample the real Portugal see our K75/100/1100/1200RS Standard £60 pair. 35 litre Website. www.portugal-holidayvilla.co.uk. Tel top case £26, K1200LT three piece set £95. Three Maggie on 00351-251648107 or Mobile 00351- piece to fit Adventurer Aluminium £89. R1200GS 912860707 expandable £75 pair and £99.50 three pieceBlack/ PORTUGAL – Explore Central Portugal all year Royal Blue piping all incl P&P. Send cheque to Mane round. Spectacular mountain roads and trails. Event, 8 Cornhill Road, Davyhulme, Manchester Luxury lakeside villa with use of BMW F650GS M41 5TJ, Telephone 0161 747 3939 Dakars. Guided tours and trail rides, riders with www.maneevent.org.uk own bikes, self catering, half board, b&b and family POLISHED STAINLESS SPOKES AND NIPPLES ratesavailable. (British made) for BMW Tubeless wheels - £61.10 www. thrustforthmotorcycleholidays. com Tel: 00 per set. Stainless spoke sets (with nickel-plated 351 235 296452 E mail: [email protected] brass nipples) for ‘Conventional’ BMW wheels - SW FRANCE, DORDOGNE, GITES , B&B. 20kms £41.12 (prices include VAT). Full wheelbuilding S. Bergerac, comfortable gîtes sleeping 4 or 7, plus service. Hubs and rims reconditioned as required. en suite B&B in the farmhouse, with pool. Safe, DEVON RIM COMPANY Tel. 01769 574108 email. lockable bike storage. www. frenchoasisholidays. [email protected] com Call Gordon & Jane Tel: 0033 553 233394 STAINLESS STEEL FASTENERS for boxers and SOUTHERN FRANCE, NR BEZIERS B&B AND K series. Please state year and model. SAE for list APARTMENT (dinner optional) - ideal touring base please. K. Shaw Engineering, 19 Orchard Close, close to Mountains and Mediterranean. Superb Gt Hale Sleaford, Lincs NG34 9JB. Tel/Fax 01529 roads, spectacular scenery, researched routes and 469047. email garage parking - Biker Paradise, nickysinclair@ [email protected]

BMW Club Journal • September 2005 81 CLASSIC BMW MOTORCYCLE TOURS throuugh MICK BARR, INDEPENDENT BMW SPECIALIST. South Africa’s Highlands and Winelands, contact Trained BMW Technician over 25 years. Offers 0845 280 0085 or email [email protected], quality Service & Repairs, At My Home Workshop, full details at WWW.RideSA.com In Scraptoft, LEICESTER (Just off A47). Any Work ANDY METCALFE Motorcycles (formerly “Just undertaken on all R, K. & 4v Series. Gearbox a Beemers”). Independent BMW specialist. Speciality, Bevel drive Repairs, Insurance estimates Restoration, Servicing, Repairs Tel 01642 475600 & Repairs, Twin Spark Head Machining. Moblie 07773 217591 Restorations on all Models from R51/3. Tel Mick or B.E.M.W. For competitive prices on: Restorations, Glenyse on 01162 419316, FAX 01162 921840. repairs & spares. Spares for vintage/classic BMW’s NORTH OXFORDSHIRE, WARWICKSHIRE, from 1935. CJ750, copies of 1938 BMW R71, GLOUCESTERSHIRE BORDER. BMW Quality FROM £2,650. Some new 1957 models in stock, service, repairs, restoration and special tuning work, LH/RH sidecars plus OHV machines available. on all models. Collection and delivery arranged. Machine tools for the small/home workshop, ANDREW SEXTON MOTORCYCLES Tel 01608 including Chester MultiFunction lathe/mill/drill. Parts 730111 made to pattern or drawing. S.A.E. for specification SERVICING, REPAIRS, SPARES: Boxer & K and services or visit our website. 2 Forman Street, servicing; Breakdown & crash repairs; Pickup and Derby DE1 1JQ. Phone/fax 01332 298523. Eves & delivery service, weekend work, loan bike available; w/ends 01332 824334, www.bemw.co.uk BMW’s always being broken; Only BM’s worked on. BMW SERVICING NORFOLK / SUFFOLK Over Tel: Neil on 0208 546 2600 (S.W. London) 20 years main dealer experiance. For all servicing, THE BOXER MAN – THE INDEPENDENT BMW repairs, rebuilds, accident repairs, parts and SPECIALIST. Full Service, Repair & Restoration accessories, eg (R1150GS 12k service £168.66 6k facilities for R and K Series machines. Mobile £98.19) Remus / Lazer exhausts supplied and fitted. service available within an 80 mile radius of Powder coating service available. Full Touratech LEICESTER. Call Phil on 0116 2668913 or 07860 range supplied. Enquires call Kevin / Spencer KRF 588076, www.boxerman.co.uk Motorcycles 01603 629916 email [email protected] CENTRAL LONDON BMW SPECIALISTS - All Coming Up Soon models to date 2v, 4v, BMW diagnostic equipment, ex dealer Tech, 30 years exp.Servicing, repairs, Bruce Preston’s Rukkas ( don’t ask .. ) insurance work.Tyres, spares from stock. 5 star workshop, full facilities.BMW authorised Tom Phillip’s K1200LT supplier.Bikes bought/sold, see Biketrader web page.Jap & German, 102 Druid St, London SE1 Ben Hodgson in Azerbaijan 2HQ Tel 0207 237 2299, Email [email protected] Robert Matzdorff in South Africa CRAY ENGINEERING. BMW road and race performance specialist. Tuning packages to suit Repair Manual Translation ( Oh “[?*&^%£]” it ) ! your requirements. Fully equipped workshop. Engineering, servicing, repairs and rebuilds. New Iain Griffin : the FlyRide winner and used spares. Tyres fitted and balanced while you wait. Phone/ fax Jim Cray 01795 431444 Dirt(y) Weekends In Wales Sittingbourne, Kent. EURO CLASSICS. A small family firm dedicated to Bill Smithson in Germany servicing, repairs and renovation of BMW’s. We build bikes to order (GS a speciality). Insurance Our President let loose on a Guided Tour work carried out. Supply and fitting of tyres. New & second hand parts. Exchange drive shafts, Varta & batteries. BMW’s for sale. or sell your BMW at no cost to you. Please phone Phil or Dinah on 01604 A Very Rude Article (‘nuff said !) 591222 or www.euroclassics.co.uk. MAINLY BOXERS AND BRICKS. Professional Please keep your articles, photosand comments motorcycle servicing and repair at realistic rates coming - we can NEVER have too many . My Telephone Jim Downie 01505 850341 or 07973 thanks to everyone who’ve also sent in their 326928 Near Neilston G78 efforts - they will all appear in due course !

82 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 BMW Club Journal • September 2005 83 84 BMW Club Journal • September 2005