The plans come alongside the results of a Swinton Bikes survey which found there had been an increase in the number of motorcyclists being affected by drivers texting behind the wheel – an action that can impact on both the car drivers insurance and also the bike insurance of the rider.

The survey, which polled 1000 motorbike owners, found that mobile phone usage has become the most annoying and dangerous thing drivers do whilst out on the road. Drivers not using their indicators and ineffective use of mirrors also appeared on the list.

As well as this, 5% of motorcyclists also admitted that the behaviour of other drivers was of a big concern during bad weather.

According to the survey the most annoying things drivers do are:

• Texting or making a phone call behind the wheel (32%)
• Failing to use their indicators (28%)
• Ineffective use of their mirrors (25%)
• Throwing rubbish, including cigarette butts out of the window (10%)
• Overtaking and driving too close in bad weather (5%)

Antony Aronin, Head of Swinton Bikes, said: “You can see how these things can annoy motorcyclists, but in many of these situations there is a serious danger to both the motorcyclist and the driver of the vehicle. A lack of observations by car drivers can result in them failing to see bikers and causing serious accidents. Actions such as increasing premiums for people caught on mobile phones should help to deter drivers taking this risk and ultimately breaking the law.”

Daytona Sulpher Yellow

The Hinckley-based manufacturer’s iconic Daytona 675 is first up for a refresh, with a striking new Sulphur Yellow paint scheme, which is underlined with yellow pin stripes on the wheels. With weight reduction a constant preoccupation with performance riders, the bike’s front mudguard, cockpit infills and exhaust heat shield all get the lightweight carbon fibre treatment. The new look Daytona also now comes with a quickshifter and billet levers to strike home the racing pedigree of the bike and is priced at £8,875 otr.

Triumph’s classic flagship model, the Bonneville SE (£6,699 otr) is now available in an eye catching Imperial Purple/White colour scheme, which also sees the tank logo decal replaced with a badge. The engine cooling fins also enjoy new styling, adding to the retro look. Two other classic models benefit from new colour options, with the Thruxton (£7,099 otr) offered in a classic Brooklands Green paint scheme, while the Scrambler (£7,099 otr) will be available in a Matt Graphite coat.

Triumph’s award-winning Thunderbird cruiser is now available in Caspian Blue/Phantom Black and Marble Red Haze livery, while all the Thunderbird two-tone paint schemes will see this treatment extended to the front mudguards. The Thunderbird’s bigger brother, the Storm, gains a menacing Matt Graphite option. The Thunderbird is available from £10,499 otr, while the Storm hits the street at £11,799 otr.

The Speedmaster and America, Triumph’s entry-level cruisers, both enjoy revised finishing detail on the engine cooling fins for improved aesthetics and a more discreet oil pipe cooler. The Speedmaster comes in two new options – Matt Black and Sapphire Blue/Jet Black, while its American cousin drops the Caribbean Blue/White scheme in favour of a richer Sapphire Blue/White option. Both models from £6,999 otr.

Finally, the class-leading Speed Triple will also be available in Sulphur Yellow (£8,999 otr).

Guy Masters, general manager of Triumph UK, said: “Our design team is constantly listening to customer feedback and watching trends to assess and re-evaluate the colour schemes across our range to reflect what today’s riders want. The new designs for 2012 will feed into our dealer network from May onwards and we really hope they will inspire riders to get out there and enjoy a great summer of riding.”

For further information on Triumph’s range, please visit your local dealer or go to
www.triumphmotorcycles.co.uk.

The CRF250L is a result of the company’s long history and expertise in both off-road competition and ‘on- off-road’ machinery. This multi-role motorcycle is equally at home on city streets or country trails. Its dimensions, ergonomics, low weight, long-travel 43mm Showa USD forks and Pro-link rear suspension are suited to a wide range of terrains and riding conditions.

The WDW2012 event Main Partners will be Effenbert, Pirelli and Tudor, three top-class, exciting and dynamic brands whose partnerships will play an important role in the event organisation and, with a supporting list of Official Partners, enable an entertaining line-up of initiatives for what could be a record number of “Ducatisti”.

Effenbert, producer of the famous beer (also available in an alcohol-free version) is now also a key player in the World Superbike Championship series and as title sponsor of Team Effenbert Liberty Racing, has recognised WDW to be one of the biggest communication and entertainment events for motorcycle fans.

The brand has chosen to partner Ducati’s seventh edition of the WDW event to confirm its interest in the world of motorcycling and support the passionate community of Ducatisti and fans of their racing team. Team Effenbert Liberty Racing will attend the Misano event with its official World Superbike riders of Ducati 1198-powered Jakub Smrz, Sylvain Guintoli, Maxime Berger and Brett McCormick. While Effenbert will also be present in the “Galaxy of Adrenalin”, one of the WDW2012 themed paddock areas with freestyle performances by the “Team DaBoot”, the rest of the red-hot paddock will be constantly cooled with alcohol-free version of Effenbert beer.

Requiring little in the way of introduction, Pirelli, the world-famous tyre manufacturer has constantly worked with Ducati in recent years to develop innovative and world-beating technical advancements in motorcycling, and will attend the massive event with special WDW-customised products. Purchasing tyres in the Misano paddock will offer a truly unique experience and WDW-goers wishing to take advantage of special terms offered by Pirelli should mail wdw@pirelli.com for more information.

Ducati’s official Timing Partner, Tudor, the prestigious brand of watches, complete an impressive line-up of Main Partners and further underline their focus on the world of sports. The famous Swiss manufacturer, who offer an exclusive collection of Ducati timepieces called Fastrider, will preview its latest technology, the new and stylish GranTour watch. Tudor, who also assume the title of “Event Timing Partner”, will sponsor a number of activities in the “Heritage Galaxy” area, including the celebration of the 40th anniversary of Paul Smart’s historic win in the 1972 Imola 200, the Ducati Vintage contest and an Elegance contest for vintage motorcycles. Style, precision and technology are key words for both brands and Tudor will further enhance its association with Ducati by offering the opportunity to learn more about the mechanical engineering applied to watch-making.

As advance ticket sales suggest record attendance, WDW2012 is ramping-up ready for four days of motorcycle fun and entertainment on “The Planet of the Champions”, an event also made possible by WDW2012’s Official Partners.

Arai, the quality helmet manufacturer with countless graphic designs inspired by Ducati’s models, will attend WDW2012 with a special helmet service and plenty of useful tips on maintenance.

Arrex Curva Rossawill display the new design kitchen by Arrex and Ducati. Inspired by the streamline profile of Ducati motorcycles, the innovative Ducati-style kitchen was presented for the first time at the international furniture show Salone del Mobile 2012.

Bellenda, the famous Spumante wine, will also be at WDW2012 and, thanks to its partnership with Ducati, will take this opportunity to present its latest wine branded Ducati Caffe’ by Bellenda.

Cartorama, the leading Italian manufacturer of educational stationery products will proudly display a selection of Ducati-branded items, which may also be purchased at WDW2012.

Cantine Cecihas been associated with Ducati for a number of years, producing wine varieties inspired by the Bologna-made motorcycles. “Otello per Ducati Caffé”, a Ducati Caffe’ special version of the very popular Otello Nero di Lambrusco, and “Piega”, the new Ducati Caffe’ branded Decanta 68.2 will also be available at WDW2012, associated together with Ducati in the name of Italian excellence.

Dainese, the leading motorcycle riding gear manufacturer, is one of the most prestigious names to have traditionally supported and protected Ducati and its passionate riders. Dainese will be in attendance to offer advice and to facilitate the purchase of made-to-measure technical apparel.

Ducati Caffè, the coolest lounge bar at WDW2012, will provide a stylish break between fun activities, reproducing the decor of one of the exclusive and world-famous Ducati bars.

“Fight for me Ducati”, the exclusive Ducati perfume, will provide a special test and sale area in the Misano circuit paddock.

Niloxsports and entertainment technology will present its brand-new Ducati Action Camera at WDW2012, a Ducati-customised helmet camera designed for all those who wish to capture the most exciting riding moments of their bike journey or track days or, indeed, WDW2012 at Misano. Ten helmets equipped with Ducati Action Cameras will be made available to all riders who sign-up for a track test ride on the Ducati’s brand-new 1199 Panigale, capturing their own unique experience forever.

Shell Advancewill gift all WDW2012-goers two Euros of V-Power fuel coupons with each ticket to be used at fuel pumps near the Misano circuit.

Superfluo, a new partnership with Ducati, has produced “Aradio”, an FM radio manufactured in Italy and previewed at WDW2012.

TIM, since 2004 the prestigious partner of Ducati in the MotoGP World Championship and as of this year also with Team Althea Racing in the World Superbike series, will attend WDW2012 with special initiatives and social network activities.

Wurth, the world-leader of fasteners, mounting products and system distribution with a range of over 100,000 items, will also make its expertise available at WDW2012 with a helmet cleaning service.

Ducati’s long list of partners are also supported by the valuable contributions of Aci Global, Adecco,Artsofbrands, Fiam, Garelli and SDA.

World Ducati Week 2012 is a unique event, attracting an extremely varied audience from all over the world and providing significant visibility for the local territory and its facilities. Partnerships with institutions, organisations and authorities involved in the event provide a valuable contribution to its success. TheProvince of Rimini, Municipality of Misano, Municipality of Cattolica, Municipality  of Riccione, and theRepublic of San Marino, in addition to the special relationship and sponsorship of the Spanish Tourist Board, will enable the thousands of fans arriving in Misano from all over the world, to help promote its own regions and the “Ducati-friendly” opportunities that it can offer.

Ducati also celebrate the services of Leardini Group, which provide the high quality catering service in Adriatic Riviera style, and the Adria Congrex for its organisational support. The stunning Misano World Circuit, now hosting its seventh World Ducati Week, provides the dream venue for this uniquely thrilling event and the platform on which all these passionate partnerships have been built.

All WDW2012 info available at wdw.ducati.com

The first of four events across the Summer that will offer test rides on a huge cross-section of Kawasaki motorcycles, the event has now moved up a gear with the announcement of three further attractions adding yet more reasons to join in the fun.

THE TIM BLAKEMORE ZZR1400 TURBO STREETBIKE

Tim Blakemore Racing:

Kawasaki supported drag racer, Tim Blakemore, is one of Europe’s most respected drag racers and an expert on making fast Kawasakis go faster still. Undertaking much of the machine development himself, Tim has created two amazing drag racing bikes based on the awesome ZZR1400 and both will be at Silverstone.

Racing in the Streetbike series, the ZZR1400 Turbo has been successfully campaigned in “bracket racing” for two seasons and is now capable of running consistent 8.5 second quarter mile runs with the Turbo boost providing anything from 250 to well over 300 horsepower depending on requirements.

For serious petrol heads, the Tim Blakemore Racing Funnybike will also be on show, stripped bare for all to see the substantial Turbocharger in all its glory along with the stunning one-off chassis and electronics package. This very bike ran a quarter mile from a standing start to a terminal speed of 200mph at Santa Pod putting Tim in the record books; come along take a look and talk to the team – who knows they may even fire one of the bikes up!

Craig Jones Skills Academy & Stunt Show

CRAIG JONES MAKES IT LOOK SO EASY

Craig is well known across Europe for his record breaking stunt riding records and shows. Additionally, his Skills Academy has made hundreds of motorcycle fans better and more confident riders.

Performing his amazing show at the Stowe circuit venue for the first of the 2012 Kawasaki On the Road Tour events, Craig will wow the crowds with a variety of gravity defying tricks from “wheelies” and “stoppies” both solo and with a (willing) passenger to more ambitious tricks! Amazingly able to commentate on the display while he is actually performing, Craig will show just how spectacular ultimate machine control can be.

And speaking of control, the Skills Academy will be open for business at Stowe Circuit Silverstone, ready to refine the skills of visitors and bring other abilities to the surface perhaps they never thought they had. “The best learning is fun learning” according to Jones, and, for sure that’s exactly what the Skills Academy will be.

Z40 Celebration at Stowe

In 1972, the legendary Kawasaki Z1 was shown in Europe for the very first time. A four-cylinder, four-stroke machine that established Kawasaki once and for all as a major motorcycle manufacturer, the 903cc Z1 and its siblings have gone on to create a formidable legacy that lasts to this day.

On this, the 40th Anniversary of the launch of the Z1, examples of both the original machine and selected other iconic Z models will be at Stowe Circuit along with enthusiastic members of the Z1 Owners Club, ready and willing to explain just what makes these bikes quite so special.

From the very first 1972 Z1 900 to more recent Z1000 machines, the display illustrates the engineering and technical prowess of Kawasaki Heavy Industries as well as providing a “style snapshot” of four decades of precision manufacturing.

Along with Free road rides, track riding sessions, the Kawasaki Riders Club, the addition of three further attractions make the Stowe Circuit event at Silverstone on Saturday 26 May a must-see for anyone interested in Kawasaki. Ride, look, talk, enjoy the choice is yours; just make sure you come along to this stunning Free event.

Click here for the SILVERSTONE Indemnity Form

Click here for full details of our 2012 Tour

RM Auctions hosted its first full-day motorcycle sale on 11 May in Monaco which celebrated the Ducati brand and featured the world-famous Carlo Saltarelli Collection.

The 96 lots represented a cross section of Ducati’s history, headlined by the 1972 Ducati 750 Imola 200 Corsa Replica for €70,200.

For Ducati enthusiasts, the sale also featured a unique opportunity to purchase two factory Desmosedici GP machines, which set new, all-time world records for Ducati motorcycles sold at auction. The race-winning GP10 machine raced by world champion Casey Stoner in the 2010 season, achieved an incredible sale price of €251,550 while the 2011 season GP11 bike raced by the legendary Valentino Rossi, made an equally impressive €245,700. This was the first time the Factory Ducati Corse racing department had offered such bikes directly to auction, and the sale represented a unique opportunity to collectors.

“We are very happy for the two new owners of these precious, high-tech racing motorcycles. It was great experience working with the RM team and to see that the bikes generated so much attention and interested bidding from collectors around the world,” commented Diego Sgorbati, Ducati Motor Holding spa following the sale.

Girardo added, “The addition of motorcycles to our Monaco sale represents RM’s versatility in the marketplace. Any motorcycle sale that achieves in excess of one million euros and which also sees significant records tumble, can only be judged as a fantastic success. In addition, the sale enabled us to successfully reach a new audience of buyers, with thirty-four percent of bidders at the sale representing first-time clients.”

After a morning of consistent rain, the Superbike riders took to the 8.9 mile triangle circuit with caution this afternoon. The hour-long session ended with McGuinness at the top of the timesheet while Andrews was not far behind in third. The two Superbike races will go ahead on Saturday 19 May with the starting positions determined by the times recorded during the dry session on Tuesday.

John McGuinness
The grid positions from Tuesday still stand, so that puts us on the front row of the grid. I was out there in the wet splashing around this afternoon and we were fastest, which is unusual for me. I’m normally dithering around like an old nurse in the wet! I got a good feel for it so we’re in the hunt and I’m looking forward to Saturday now. I just hope the sun shines.

Simon Andrews
There was no way to improve on our times today so we concentrated on set-up instead. We made some changes to the bike to make me feel more comfortable and I knew we were going in the right direction. I was up in second behind John and I just got knocked down to third at the end there. To be running those times and at that position in the wet was good and hopefully I can build on that to be the same in the dry. The more track time I have the better I go, so I’m looking forward to Saturday.

Following a low-speed crash in the first Superstock practice on Tuesday, Gary Johnson completed today’s session to qualify 41st for this evening’s race, which will start at 18.15.

For news, blogs and real-time updates:
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North West 200 – 2012 schedule  

Thursday 17 May Racing
Roads close 5.30pm to 9.00pm
18.15 Superstock race 1
19.00 Supertwin race

Saturday 19 May Racing
Roads close 10.00 am to 6.30pm
Racing commences at 11.00am
Race schedule:
1. Supersport race 1
2. Superbike race 1
3. Superstock race 2
4. Supersport race 2
5. NW 200 Superbike race

The stock Fireblade machine has been supplied by Honda (UK), along with a selection of performance racing parts from Honda Racing (permitted within Superstock 1000 rules). Celebrating its 20^th anniversary in 2012, the Fireblade is utilised by numerous racers across the UK, in both amateur and professional race series, and has chalked up an almost unmatchable tally of race wins and racing success, including three British Superbike titles, one World Superbike Championship title and a total of 14 TT wins. The unquestionable pedigree and pure racing DNA makes the Fireblade the obvious choice for any racer wanting an immediately competitive package.

Lee Hardy Racing was formed in 2010 and since then has worked closely with the RAF Reserves. The team has competed in several championships, including LMB Streetfighter series with

Honda (UK) Supports RAF Reserves Racing

Thundersport GB. 2012 however brings a new start; RAF Reserves Racing in Association with Honda are making a huge step up in competition as they take on the best Superstock 1000 racers in the country, in the support series for the premier motorcycle racing championship in the UK, the British Superbike Championship.

The team have put their faith in a young Airman who serves with the RAF Royal Air Force at RAF Marham, Senior Aircraftsman Tom Gazzard, who will be spearheading the challenge. As an RAF Aircraft Technician, Tom provides in-depth aircraft electrical maintenance of Tornado GR4 combat aircraft within the Combined Maintenance and Upgrade facility at Royal Air Force Marham. He assists in preparing the RAF’s fleet of Tornado GR4’s ready for service in Afghanistan and other theatres where additional support is needed. Reflecting the RAF Ethos, Tom’s dedication to motorsport demonstrates his capacity to maximise his time and live life to the full whilst promoting the Royal Air Force along the way.

Lee Hardy, RAF Reserves Racing Team Manager: “It is fantastic to have the backing of Honda (UK) and Honda Racing. Even though all technical aspects of the project are handled by ourselves day to day, it is great to know that we are starting with the most competitive machinery out there and that we can call on the huge amount of experience Honda Racing have when we need advice. We are learning more and more every time we get out on the bike and are looking forward to a successful season in association with Honda.

Neil Tuxworth, Manager – Honda Racing: “An association with the RAF Reserves Race Team was very much of appeal to Honda (UK). The team have such a good attitude towards racing and view it is an opportunity to build a sense of community. This is what we at Honda believe it is all about and was the primary reason we decided to support this project. Moving into the Superstock 1000 championship is a big step up for the team as it is such a competitive series but it will be great experience and hopefully they can begin to challenge towards the end of the season.”

McPhee, who currently lies second in Spain’s CEV Buckler Moto3 Championship, will be joined on the Catalunya entrants list by CEV rival and two-times Moto3 World Championship wildcard winner Alex Marquez who picked up the other ticket.

The maiden Moto3 entry will be McPhee’s fifth Grand Prix wildcard. Previously he raced in the superseded 125GP category, claiming his best result – and first World Championship point for 15th – at the British Grand Prix last year before going one better at the season-ending round at Valencia.

The Scot has won the FIM (International Motorcycling Federation) wildcard while Marquez – who has already raced in the Jerez and Estoril Grand Prix – picked up the RFME (Spanish Motorcycle Federation) nomination.

McPhee’s selection recognises the progress he has made since stepping up to the new 250cc four stroke class in the CEV series in April.

The KRP rider, who finished his first season in the ultra-competitive Spanish championship in 10th place in the rider standings in the 125GP series, has racked up podium finishes in each of the successor Moto3 rounds staged so far.

The early-season Grand Prix ticket will give McPhee the opportunity to debut the team’s own design-and-build KRP M3-01 Honda on the world stage when he takes to the track at Montmelo.

The bike, which made its first competitive appearance in the opening round of the CEV championship, has already attracted interest from teams and riders affiliated to other constructors.

“The wildcard is great news,” said RSF motorcycle racing co-ordinator Peter Ball. “And it’s thoroughly deserved. John has made tremendous progress over the last 18 months and played an important role in helping KRP to develop the bike.”

McPhee welcomed the wildcard saying: “I’m delighted and really excited about it. I secured top 15 finishes in the Grand Prix at Silverstone and Valencia last year in the old 125 two-stroke class so obviously the aim is to try and better that this time around.

“I’m under not under any illusions as to how hard that’s going to be. But I’ll definitely be giving it my best shot.

“The new KRP bike has shown itself to be competitive in the CEV championship and gets better race-by-race as the team introduces new parts and tweaks. So Catalunya will be a good test as to where we stand in relation to the bikes being run by the Grand Prix teams.

The Grand Prix takes place on 03 June.

To launch these new exciting helmets, Dainese is offering a 10% discount on AGV helmets between 15 May – 15 June. In order to claim this fantastic offer interested customers need to already be a member of Dainese’s D-Club, or become a member, click here to register.

Once registered, customers just have to quote AGV12DAIXZ when placing the order.

Don’t miss this great opportunity to combine an AGV helmet with a Dainese garment to live your passion to the full, whilst in complete safety!

*Only ECE22.05 homologated helmets will be available.