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Bench Racing & The Morning Reads

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MSRP $4250 in March/April 1986: Based on the CPI, the inflation adjusted value of the original MSRP was $9082 in April 2013. That's more expensive than a G single but less expensive than a F twin trail bike.
 
MSRP $4250 in March/April 1986: Based on the CPI, the inflation adjusted value of the original MSRP was $9082 in April 2013. That's more expensive than a G single but less expensive than a F twin trail bike.

I really like the K75. I did a lap around Lake Superior on a K75 and loved it. If there had been a K75R when I was back in the new bike market I might not own my Roadster.

I am more than a little dubious about the CPI comparison. My doubt does not come from the calculation itself, rather changes in how BMW is weighting its pricing around the world. In the mid 80's and maybe fifteen to twenty years after the US appeared to have a pricing advantage in all of the models. With BMW's increased presence in South America there seems to be a change in how it, and the other manufacturers, weights the pricing of its models nation to nation.

For tastes of many of us a K75 would be a nice addition back to the line up. For my money, if I had any, I would really have to consider a new K75R if I was in the new bike market again and they built one. The trouble is they stopped building them because the market didn't have enough people with the money in hand and buying them to justify building them.

Silly markets.
 
Mika, is it silly markets, or how BMW advertised its bikes back then? I point to my R1200S as evidence, it sold state-side less than one year. Yet, it sold in AU, South Africa, and Europe through 2009.
 
I am more than a little dubious about the CPI comparison. My doubt does not come from the calculation itself, rather changes in how BMW is weighting its pricing around the world. In the mid 80's and maybe fifteen to twenty years after the US appeared to have a pricing advantage in all of the models. With BMW's increased presence in South America there seems to be a change in how it, and the other manufacturers, weights the pricing of its models nation to nation.

I will give you credit for questioning the use of the US CPI as the sole factor. IMHO, the euro-dollar exchange rate should be a factor, but the BMW car line "seems" to have maintained US price points since the early 90's. I wonder what the real profit margins have been over the past several decades on the US market.
 
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I will give you credit for questioning the use of the US CPI as the sole factor. IMHO, the euro-dollar exchange rate should be a factor, but the BMW car line "seems" to have maintained maintain US price points since the early 90's. I wonder what the real profit margins have been over the past several decades on the US market.

The car line has some advantages that allow the price point. Economies of scale are in its advantage. In addition the Finance Sector of BMW has done some impressive (from an investor point of view) in the US.

On the bike side BMW has held the line to a great degree with prices when compared to other big bikes. H-D, Indian, Victory and even the Wing are more expensive than we realize around here by comparison. Not saying BMW's are cheap but not as high priced as the market competition might allow them to be. The sport market with the S 1000 RR is getting a steal.

In the early 2000s, in the post BMW British Invasion erra, BMW went through each of its product lines to decided if they were keepers or not. The Motorrad division was the first to go under scrutiny. Obviously it passed in a revised form and set a standard for the remaining evaluations. The profit margin in the US market no doubt played a big role.
 
Monday, 10 June Racing Update : SBK ? Portimao, F1 ? Canada GP

SBK
BMW Motorrad GoldBet SBK Team - WSBK - Portimao - Races
BMW Motorrad added another circuit to the list of tracks it was victorious at in the FIM Superbike World Championship. The BMW Motorrad GoldBet SBK Team and factory rider, Marco Melandri (ITA), celebrated victory in the first of today?s races at Portim?o (POR).In race two, Marco struggled with rear tyre wear issues and finished 12th. His team-mate Chaz Davies (GBR) finished in sixth and fifth place respectively. In the fourth race of the 2013 FIM Superstock 1000 Cup, Sylvain Barrier (FRA) from the BMW Motorrad GoldBet STK Team celebrated his second win of the season and retook the lead in the Rider?s classification. Greg Gildenhuys (RSA) defied the pain caused by his fractured left heel and collected important points finishing 12th.

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fim-live.com: Melandri and Laverty share the wins, Guintoli extends his lead

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Melandri wins race 1 at the finish line

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[url=http://www.worldsbk.com/en/news/5-sbk-news/17344-laverty-on-the-top-step-in-race-2.html ]worldsbk.com
: Laverty top step of Race 2

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aprilia.com: Double in Portimao

kawaswaki-racing.com: Sykes up then down as Baz score strongly

hondaproracing.com: Rea maintains in Portimao

suzuki-raccing.com: Camier gets FIXI Crescent Suzuki's best result

alstare.net: A positive result for Team SBK Ducati and Carlos Checa in Race 2 at Portimao

motomatters.com: 2013 Portim?o World Superbike Sunday Roundup: Of Engines, Electronics, Tyres, Injuries and Mistakes

worldsbk.com: Barrier new leader after Portimao

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Formula One

Starting Grid

fia.com: 2013 Canadian Grand Prix
Sunday Press Conference Transcript
09.06.2013
DRIVERS
1 ? Sebastian VETTEL (Red Bull Racing)
2 ? Fernando ALONSO (Ferrari)
3 ? Lewis HAMILTON (Mercedes)

Classifications
Fast Laps
History Chart
Lap Analysis
Sector Times
Lap Chart
Pit Stop Summary
Maximum Speeds
Speed Trap
Championship Standings
Driver
Constructors


formula1.com: Vettel cruises to runaway victory in Canada

formula1.com: Selected team and driver quotes

formula1.com: Marshal dies after accident in Montreal

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Cage and...

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Bike Candy

Sometimes it is extra specially good to be Maro Melandri

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Mika, is it silly markets, or how BMW advertised its bikes back then? I point to my R1200S as evidence, it sold state-side less than one year. Yet, it sold in AU, South Africa, and Europe through 2009.

I will admit a bit of both; however, competition and the markets get the nod from me. BMW did little or nothing to help the cause of the S in the US. The press did not pan it but they did not love it either. They did love the GS and riders did too. BMW defined the US as a GS and Long Distance touring market not a sport bike market. Too bad for us.
 
The car line has some advantages that allow the price point. Economies of scale are in its advantage. In addition the Finance Sector of BMW has done some impressive (from an investor point of view) in the US.

On the bike side BMW has held the line to a great degree with prices when compared to other big bikes. H-D, Indian, Victory and even the Wing are more expensive than we realize around here by comparison. Not saying BMW's are cheap but not as high priced as the market competition might allow them to be. The sport market with the S 1000 RR is getting a steal.

In the early 2000s, in the post BMW British Invasion erra, BMW went through each of its product lines to decided if they were keepers or not. The Motorrad division was the first to go under scrutiny. Obviously it passed in a revised form and set a standard for the remaining evaluations. The profit margin in the US market no doubt played a big role.

Yes, but.............I get an airbag in the Goldwing for $29K. Of course, my 4x4 Tacoma cost a lot less than $29K and it has an airbag too........
 
:rofl

At the point I need an airbag on a motorcycle -
a) I would rather have it as part of my riding gear
b) My guess is I have failed to take full advantage of other safety devices like agility, rider vision, power and brakes.
c) I need the Tacoma to haul my broken bike home.

:wave
 
Tuesday, 11 June

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Members with Birthdays this Month

SBK

worldsbk.com: Portimao post race statistics

worldsbk.com: Encouraging results for Carlos Checa at Portimao

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MotoGP

fim-live.com: Yamaha prepare for a battle in Barcelona

fim-live.com: Back to Spain for Ducati Team

motomatters.com: How the law of supply and demand is growing the MotoGP grid

VIDEO: Marc M?rquez analyzes the Circuit of Catalunya

VIDEO: MotoGP? Workshop: Brembo brakes

Formula One

formula1.com: Canada analysis ? Vettel renders rivals powerless

f1times.co.uk: Button: 'I don't know if we'll win a race'

formula1.com: FIA sets June date for Mercedes-Pirelli test hearing

msnbc.com: Vettel extends Red Bull contract through 2015

Other Racing

MC

bmw-motorrad.com: TT experience to savour for Penz13.com team

fim-live.com: FIM Sidecar World Championship ? Round Two

Cage and...

miamihelral.com: Indycar penalizes Team Penske

VIDEO: 2013 INDYCAR Fast Forward: Texas

VIDEO: 2013 Virtual Lap of The Milwaukee Mile


On the Street

gigaom.com: Honda, BMW experiment with autonomus motorcycle

sportrider.com: First Ride | 2013 Ducati Panigale R

visordown.com: Indian gunning for Harley's market

VIDEO: 2013 Bimota DB10 Bmotard full review and onboard

VIDEO: The NEW Yamaha MT-09 (official video Full HD) The Dark side of Japan

The Commute ? Drives people up the wall.

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The MotherShip PressClub

BMW Group reports best May sales ever
166,397 Group vehicles sold worldwide in May, an increase of 6.0% +++ BMW sales increase by 7.8% to 139,161 vehicles last month +++ Solid double-digit growth posted in several markets +++
...More

Class of 2013 ready for first race simulations.
The drivers in the 2013 Formula BMW Talent Cup are ready for the first race simulations of the current season. The talented young racing drivers, who are receiving comprehensive preparation for a career in professional motor racing courtesy of BMW, successfully completed their latest round of basic theory and practical courses at the Anderstorp Raceway in Sweden last weekend. The motorsport youngsters are now ready to compete in the many test races scheduled for the rest of the season.
...More

Back where it all began: BMW celebrated its first victory in the DTM for 20 years at the Lausitzring ? and now returns as champion.
Just two weeks after the historic one-two-three achieved by Bruno Spengler (CA), Marco Wittmann (DE) and Timo Glock (DE) at the Red Bull Ring (AT), the BMW teams face their next DTM challenge on 16th June: after a strong display that yielded 70 points in total in the Steiermark, the eight drivers are fired up and ready to go as the Lausitzring (DE) hosts the fourth round of the season.
...More

BMW, GM Engineers Complete Testing on DC Fast Charge Station Usage
Woodcliff Lake, NJ ? June 11, 2013? Engineers from BMW AG and General Motors recently passed a milestone in the adoption of the new Society of Automotive Engineers industry standard for DC Fast Charging. Teams from both companies worked jointly to ensure the conformity of DC ?Combo? Fast Charge stations developed by various suppliers to the SAE standard by charging pre-production versions of the BMW i3 and the Chevrolet Spark EV.
...More

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Cage World

BMW tops Mercedes in vehicle registraitons, Polk says

[url=http://money.cnn.com/2013/06/11/news/economy/bmw-discrimination/ ]money.cnn.com
: BMW hit with discriminations lawsit by EEOC

autobloggreen.com: Zaptera says Aptera USA will push on with gas and electrice versions of three-wheeled vehicle

minnesota.publicradio.org: Auto industry hiring spree

minnesotapublicradio.org: Ford plant demolition

RECALL: ASTON MARTIN ( 13V228000 )
Dated: MAY 29, 2013 Aston Martin is recalling certain model year DB9, Virage, V8 Vantage, V12 Vantage, and Rapide vehicles manufactured from May 14, 2012, through April 10, 2013. Due to a manufacturing error, the thrott...

www.bimmerfile.com: BimmerFile ? cage news options & reviews that matter

VIDEO: BMW Beginning of a new era -- automotive manufacture with CFRP | Auto

FWIW

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TED: Raffaello D'Andrea: The astounding athletic power of quadcopters - Raffaello D'Andrea (2013)
by*TEDTalks
In a robot lab at TEDGlobal, Raffaello D'Andrea demos his flying quadcopters: robots that think like athletes, solving physical problems with algorithms that help them learn. In a series of nifty demos, D'Andrea show drones that play catch, balance and make decisions together -- and watch out for an I-want-this-now demo of Kinect-controlled quads
TED: Andrew McAfee: What will future jobs look like? - Andrew McAfee (2013)
by*TEDTalks
Economist Andrew McAfee suggests that, yes, probably, droids will take our jobs -- or at least the kinds of jobs we know now. In this far-seeing talk, he thinks through what future jobs might look like, and how to educate coming generations to hold them.

Reference Library
NEW | Tornado Safety
spc.noaa.gov: The Online Tonado Safety FAQ
ncdc.noaa.gov: Tornado Myths, Facts and Safety
crh.noaa.gov: Overpasses and Tornado Safety: Not a good mix.
nws.noaa.gov: Thunderstorms, Tornados and Lightning...
2wheeltouring.net: Motorcycle Safety Severe Weather.pdf
Bike Candy

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Wednesday, 12 June

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Members with Birthdays this Month

SBK

worldsbk.com: Camier fights his way back to 4th place

crash.net: Paule Denning FIXI Crescent Suzuki ? Q&A

cycleworld.com: Superbike World champioship FIM Dorna takes control ? New Rules

MotoGP

motogp.com: Spencer impressed by record breaking Marquez

motogp.com: Espargaro excited about new Aprilia engine

world.honda.com: Pedrosa and Marquez ready for their home GP in Catalunya - Preview

VIDEO: Catalunya 2013 -- Aleix Espargaro interview

Formula One

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VIDEO: Road and Track - An Interview With F1 Champ Sebastian Vettel

Other Racing

MC

fim-live.com: Female series is ready to go

VIDEO: TEAM HRC Dakar Rally 2014 - Hi-res

Cage and...


VIDEO: Helio shines in Texas

On the Street

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canadamotoguide.com: Retro-ize your R1200R

rideapart.com: 2014 Yamaha fZ 09 three cylinders eight thousand bucks

motorcycle.com: 2013 Suzuki SFV650 Review

]motorcycle.com: How To | Motorcycle theft prevention

motorcyclenews.com: How often do you test your tyre presure?

ridermagazine.co.uk: Monocoque framed Norton replicas to be built

Transport CanadaTRIUMPH issued a recall on the STREET TRIPLE, STREET TRIPLE R, STREET TRIPLE ABS, and STREET TRIPLE R ABS models
On certain motorcycles, bolts securing two cable guides to the mainframe (in the headstock area) could loosen and restrict handlebar travel range. Reduced handlebar travel would affect handling and manoeuvrability...

dealernews.com: New Orange County Choppers tv show still looking for cast mate


VIDEO: Class of 2013 Shootout! Panigale R vs HP4 vs F4RR vs RSV4 vs ZX-10R v

The Commute

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The MotherShip PressClub

BMW Motorrad, l?der en el desarrollo de tecnolog?a lum?nica
BMW Motorrad es reconocida de igual manera por producir motocicletas fant?sticas como por su dise?o innovador. Un com?n denominador de esta dupla t?cnica es la seguridad, por lo tanto, incluir mecanismos que mejoren la visibilidad de noche para poder ver m?s lejos y con una calidad de luz que no canse la vista, es relevante; as? se demuestra en una de las m?s recientes innovaciones en la nueva R 1200 GS: el uso de un faro integrado totalmente LED.
...More

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Complete 2014 MINI Lineup Pricing and Equipment Updates
Woodcliff Lake, NJ ? June 12, 2013 ... Production of MY2014 MINI vehicles begins July 1, 2013. The only models that will have a price increase for the MY2014 are Paceman and Countryman; however, for the $100 increase, all variants of those two models will come equipped standard with heated mirrors and washer jets. There will only be one premium package moving forward, which will include the dual pane panoramic sunroof, rain sensor / automatic headlight control and automatic climate control. The cost for this option package is $1,250. A new package, called City Pack, will be offered on all models and will include the alarm system, power fold mirrors, heated mirror and wash jets, auto dimming rear-view mirrors (interior and exterior), rear park distance control and comfort access. The cost for this package will be $1,250.
...More

BMW Group helps communities affected by floods
Employees granted leave of absence for service; company fire department provides support +++ Donation of 1.5 million euros ...More

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Cage World

autoblog.com: Why BMW doesn't plan to integrate Apples iOS in the car

usatoday.com: Federal agency sues BMW over background checks

autobloggreen.com: BMW expects good things from i3 program has 100,000 reservations

www.bimmerfile.com: BimmerFile ? cage news options & reviews that matter

VIDEO: The New Ferrari Museum in Maranello - Museo Ferrari | AutoMotoTV

FWIW

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technologyreview.com: Quantim invisibility cloak hides objects from reality
FWIW ? Physicists discovered the MOA forum.

TED: George Papandreou: Imagine a European democracy without borders - George Papandreou (2013)
by*TEDTalks
Greece has been the poster child for European economic crisis, but former Prime Minister George Papandreou wonders if it's just a preview of what's to come. ?Our democracies," he says, "are trapped by systems that are too big to fail, or more accurately, too big to control? -- while "politicians like me have lost the trust of their peoples." How to solve it? Have citizens re-engage more directly in a new democratic bargain

The Raptor Center
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Reference Library
NEW | Tornado Safety
spc.noaa.gov: The Online Tonado Safety FAQ
ncdc.noaa.gov: Tornado Myths, Facts and Safety
crh.noaa.gov: Overpasses and Tornado Safety: Not a good mix.
nws.noaa.gov: Thunderstorms, Tornados and Lightning...
2wheeltouring.net: Motorcycle Safety Severe Weather.pdf

Bike Candy

facebook.com: BMW Art and Wallpapers

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Friday, 14 June

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Members with Birthdays this Month

MotoGP

motogp.com: Racing Numbers: Gran Premi Aperol de Catalunya
Catalunya will play host to the sixth round of the 2013 MotoGP? season as a selection of riders aim for home victory this weekend. As is often the case, all sorts of numbers will be in the air

bbc.co.uk: Fearless Marquez bids to bounce back in Barca
Spaniard Marc Marquez seems undaunted by his recent crashes as he aims to win his home grand prix, says BBC Sport's Steve Parrish.

superbikeplanet.com: Civil War
It's a sore spot with Dorna and some sponsors and fans that Spain hosts four Grands Prix per year. But ask anyone from the Catalunya region of that nation, and they'll tell you there are three GP's in Spain and one in Catalunya.

autosport.com: Stoner: no plans to return to MotoGP
Casey Stoner insists he has no plans to return to MotoGP action, saying he cannot envisage ever having the urge to compete in the sport again

canadamotorguide.com: Indianapolis track may axe MotoGP race
by*Zac Kurylyk
Racetrack bigwig says his company may cancel the US MotoGP stop after this season's race

superbikeplanet.com: Spies may be out until Indy ? or longer

Formula One

formula1.com: Pirelli: Tyre construction to remain the same for Silverstone
Formula One racing's official tyre suppliers Pirelli have confirmed that they will not be changing the construction of their P Zero tyres - contrary to initial plans - after announcing the compound allocations for the next three races. The Italian manufacturer had wanted to introduce new rubber to improve both tyre durability and performance

bbc.co.uk: Teams block Pirelli's tyre changes
Formula 1 teams reject Pirelli's plans to make changes to their tyres despite suffering a number of early-season failures.

jamesallenonf1.com: Pirelli to persist with old specification F1 tyres as teams fail to agree
by*James Allen
A frustrated Pirelli has today issued a statement with the tyre specifications for the next three Grands Prix, noting that it has not be able to introduce its revised 2013 tyres, due to a lack of testing and a failure of the F1 teams to agree to the change.

f1times.com: Parr: 'Customer cars would mark the end of F1'
Ferrari made a fresh bid to introduce customer cars to Formula 1 during a meeting of all 11 teams during the Canadian Grand Prix, and once again, the idea was quickly dismissed.

On the Street

dealernews.com: BMW, Ducati, Zap issue recalls
The government has reported upcoming recalls for BMW, Ducati and Zap, all detailed below.
BMW is recalling the 2009 K1300 GT and K1300 S. The switches on the handlebars for both the turn indicators and the emergency engine stop may fail. ?In some cases, engine stalling could also result,? the government bulletin says. Dealers will inspect the bikes and replace the necessary components. BMW has not provided an owner notification schedule. The potential number of units affected also is not available. The NHTSA campaign ID number is 09V384000

dealernews.com: Ural dealers to get floorplanning from GE Capital
CHICAGO, Ill. - GE Capital?s Commercial Distribution Finance (CDF) business *will provide inventory financing to dealerships that carry Ural Motorcycles distributed by Irbit Motorworks of America Inc. of Redmond, Wash.

cycleworld.com: Peter Williams John Player Norton ? First Look Only 25 of these ?monocoque? Commando replicas will be built.
by*John Burns

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/mMaGYBbhF70" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

asphaltandrubber.com: Triumph Daytona 1100 Concept by Luca Bar Design
by*Jensen Beeler
It seems like a no-brainer, right? Take the existing Triumph Daytona 675 supersport package, drop in the 1,050cc three-cylinder motor found in the Triumph Speed Triple (with a higher state of tune, of course), and call the beast the Triumph Daytona 1100 superbike. Boom. Done. It?s so easy Triumph, so why haven?t you done it already?! The answer of course is that the superbike segment is extremely competitive and expensive to enter

sportrider.com: First Ride: 2013 Ducati Hypermotard/SP | Double Threat
First Ride: 2013 Ducati Hypermotard/SP | Double Threat

webbikeworld.com: Best Motorcycle Helmet?
by*editor@webbikeworld.com (Rick K.)
Could this be the best all-around motorcycle helmet in the world, all things considered?

autobloggreen.com: Two Wheels: Zero MMX brings stealth electric motorcycle to US Special Forces

VIDEO: Dunlop Sportmax Q3 Tires Review at RevZilla.com

VIDEO: Touratec ? History of the GS ? Part 6

The Commute

Some wait for the weekend...

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while others commute daily.

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The MotherShip PressClub

"The sportiest cars of 2013" - three BMW models lead the field
Readers of the specialist German magazine "Sport Auto" have named the BMW M550d xDrive, the BMW 335i Sedan and the BMW 335i Coupe as the most popular cars in their respective segments....More

ROLLS-ROYCE MOTOR CARS AND 'HISTORY PIN' PRESENT 100 YEARS OF AUTOMOTIVE HISTORY
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars proudly presents enthusiasts with an extraordinary way of engaging with the 2013 Centenary Alpine Trial.
...More

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Cage World

VIDEO: DeSoto TV Spots with Groucho Marx

VIDEO: Jay Leno's Garage ? Amelia Island 20131955 LaSalle II

www.bimmerfile.com: BimmerFile ? cage news options & reviews that matter

FWIW

TED: Daniel Suarez: The kill decision shouldn't belong to a robot - Daniel Suarez (2013)
By TEDTalks
As a novelist, Daniel Suarez spins dystopian tales of the future. But on the TEDGlobal stage, he talks us through a real-life scenario we all need to know more about: the rise of autonomous robotic weapons of war. Advanced drones, automated weapons and AI-powered intelligence-gathering tools, he suggests, could take the decision to make war out of the hands of humans.

technologyreview.com: The remarkable properties of mythological social networks

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Reference Library
NEW | Tornado Safety
spc.noaa.gov: The Online Tonado Safety FAQ
ncdc.noaa.gov: Tornado Myths, Facts and Safety
crh.noaa.gov: Overpasses and Tornado Safety: Not a good mix.
nws.noaa.gov: Thunderstorms, Tornados and Lightning...
2wheeltouring.net: Motorcycle Safety Severe Weather.pdf

Bike Candy

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Saturday, 15 June

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Members with Birthdays this Month

SBK

worldsbk.com: Melandri looking forward to his home round

<iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/video/embed?video_id=543220982408991" width="1280" height="720" frameborder="0"></iframe>

MotoGP

motogp.com: BMW M reveals new MotGP M6 at Catalunya

motogp.com: Pedrosa and Marquez weighing up tyre choices

motogp.com: Hayden sets new top speed record in Barcelona

fim-live.com: Rossi takes charge in Catalunya

fim-live.com: Espargo the quickest

fim-live.ccom: Circuit de Catalunya will be giving MotoGP spectators a glimpse of green

motomatters.com: Barcelona MotoGP Friday roundup

VIDEO: Circuit de Catalunya - Yamaha Technical Preview

VIDEO: Circuit de Catalunya - Ducati Technical Preview

VIDEO: Circuit de Catalunya - Honda Technical Preview

Formula One

jamesallenonf1.com: Williams to provide batterysystem to FIA Formula e Championship

Other Racing

MC

supercross.com: MX GP preview ? Return to historic Maggiora

Cage and...

VIDEO: 2013 IndyCar Practice 1 at The Milwaukee Mile

VIDEO: 2013 IndyCar Practice 2 at The Milwaukee Mile

On the Street

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facebook: Julien Lecointe ART BIKE

bmwmcmag.com: 90 Years of BMW Motorrad book available tommorrow

cyrilhuzeblog.com: Harley-Davidson presents Pope Francis two motorcycles and a leather jacket

thekneeslider.com: Kawasaki KR 1S with Suzuki sv650 power

visordown.com: Keanu Reeves motorcycle nears production

motorcycledaily.com: Motorcycles set electric touring records

twincities.com: Minnesot motorcyclist get chance to test skills

VIDEO: MotoUSA 2013 Honda CBR500R & CB500F Review

VIDEO: MotoUSA First Ride: 2014 Honda CTX700

VIDEO: Ducati Hyperstrada | First rides | Motorcyclenews.com

The Commute

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The MotherShip PressClub

MINI debut for Terranova.
by*MINI Motorsport
After finishing fifth in the Dakar 2013, Orlando Terranova will be showing off his new love ? the MINI ALL4 Racing ? in front of a home crowd at the Desaf?o Ruta 40 in Argentina.
...More

The New 2014 BMW 5 Series Sedan and 5 Series Gran Turismo.
Diesel variant of the 5 Series Sedan expands the new 2014 BMW 5 Series lineup
...More

ALL4 climbs the winner's podium: success for the MINI Countryman in the 2013 "Off Road Award".
Car magazine readers rank MINI all-wheel drive all-rounder second in the subcompact SUV category
...More

Record time of under two minutes.The new BMW Motorsport Tent is a racy number.
The new BMW Motorsport Tent for 2013 effortlessly puts all BMW motorsport fans in pole position. Whether on the campsite, by the race track, or in the wild, this robust two-person tent can be put up ? after a little practice ? in the time it takes to do a lap of the Hockenheimring. It is part of the new BMW Motorsport Collection , presented by the Munich-based manufacturer at the start of the new racing season.
...More

The new BMW 4 Series Coupe.
The new BMW 4 Series Coupe heralds the dawn of a new coupe era at BMW. Launched as the fourth generation of BMW?s sporty mid-size Coupe, the new BMW 4 Series Coupe embodies the very essence of aesthetic appeal and dynamics in the premium segment. Its stylistic features carry the promise of a powerful presence on the road, stand-out dynamic ability and driving pleasure in abundance. Indeed, the new BMW 4 Series Coupe represents a paragon of balanced proportions and the final chapter in a story of development. The ?4? in its title headlines this new era for the Coupe and emphasises not only its stand-alone design, but also an even greater technical differentiation from its BMW 3 Series cousins
...More

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Cage World


VIDEO: BMW Sports and Classic Rallye 2013 Day 1 - Motorsport Driving scenes

VIDEO: Aston Martin CC100 Speedster Concept

www.bimmerfile.com: BimmerFile ? cage news options & reviews that matter

FWIW

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TED: Manal al-Sharif: A Saudi woman who dared to drive - Manal al-Sharif (2013)
By TEDTalks
There's no actual law against women driving in Saudi Arabia. But it's forbidden. Two years ago, Manal al-Sharif decided to encourage women to drive by doing so -- and filming herself for YouTube. Hear her story of what happened next

technologyreview.com: Seven must read stories week ending June 14

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Reference Library
NEW | Tornado Safety
spc.noaa.gov: The Online Tonado Safety FAQ
ncdc.noaa.gov: Tornado Myths, Facts and Safety
crh.noaa.gov: Overpasses and Tornado Safety: Not a good mix.
nws.noaa.gov: Thunderstorms, Tornados and Lightning...
2wheeltouring.net: Motorcycle Safety Severe Weather.pdf

Bike Candy

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Saturday, 15 June Racing Update : Catalunya MotoGP

MotoGP

motogp.com: Pedrosa destroys record en route to Barcelona pole

hondaproracing.com: Record-breaker Pedrosa puts Honda on pole at Catalunyahttp://www.hondaproracing.

motogp.com: Clutch problems hinders Lorenzo's efforts

motogp.com: Crutchlow equals career best qualifying

ducati.com: Second, third rows for Ducati Team at Catalan GP

motomatters.com: Barcelona MotoGP Saturday post qualifying roundup

mototmatters.com: Engine Trouble Looming For Yamaha: Rossi And Lorenzo Burning Through Allocation

Let the speculation begin:
motogp.com: Dorna CEO explains the future of MotoGP
When will Suzuki make their final decision and announcement and who will be the other three?

Formula One

reuters.comMotor racing-First Ferrari winner Gonzalez dies at 90
June 15 (Reuters) - Jose Froilan Gonzalez, the 'Pampas Bull' who in 1951 became the first driver to win a Formula One world championship grand prix for Ferrari, has died in Buenos Aires at the age of 90, Argentine media reported on Saturday

Other Racing

MC

supercross.com: 2013 FIM World Motorcross Round 9 Maggiora Italy qualifying

Cage and...

BWM Motorsports News: Difficult qualifying at the Lausitzring: Bruno Spengler starts from fifth as the best-placed BMW driver.
After the one-two-three in Spielberg (AT), the BMW DTM teams endured a difficult qualifying ahead of the fourth race of the season at the Lausitzring (DE). Bruno Spengler (CA) was the best-placed BMW driver, qualifying fifth in the BMW Bank M3 DTM. The reigning DTM champion, driving for BMW Team Schnitzer, was just ten thousandths of a second off making it into the top-four qualifying.


Bike Candy

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Tuesday, 18 June

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Members with Birthdays this Month

SBK

worldsbk.com: Positive Motorland Aragon test for KRT riders

MotoGP

fim-live.com: ?A perfect day? - Lorenzo

fim-live.com: Double podium delights Pedrosa and Marquez

duacti.com: Dovizioso seventh in Catalonia, crash for Hayden

ducati.com: Ducati Team concludes Barcelona post race test

fime-live.com: Suzuki will return to FIM road racing Grand Prix MotoGP in 2015

motogp.com: De Puniet highly encouraged by Suzuki pace

motomatters.com: 2013 Barcelona post race test roundup

VIDEO: MotoGP? Catalunya 2013 -- Best crashes

VIDEO:MotoGP? Catalunya 2013 -- Best overtakes

VIDEO: MotoGP? Catalunya 2013 -- Best slow motion

VIDEO: 2013 FIM MotoGP World Championship - Catalunya (ESP)

VIDEO: Moto2? Catalunya 2013 -- best action

VIDEO: Moto3? Catalunya 2013 -- best action

VIDEO: Suzuki back in action at Barcelona


Formula One

fitimes.co.uk: Webber: ?Modern F1 not as satisfying as old?

nbcsports.com: Montreal discussing 10 year contract extention

Other Racing

MC

VIDEO: Support Class Highlights - R4 Knockhill

Cage and...

VIDEO: Bentley 10th anniversary of Le Mans victory | AutoMotoTV

VIDEO: 2013 Firestone 550 Race

VIDEO: 94. AC Discovered

On the Street

rideaprt.com: Gear ? Dainese body armor

ridermagazine.cu.uk: First Fromces track day held at Silverstone

mashable.com: Motorcycle helmet high tech

motorsportsnewswire.com: Motorcycle Industry Council support of vehicle to vehicle communications highlighted at safety awareness event.

VIDEO: MotoUSA Urban Cruiser Comparison: 2013 Triumph Bonneville

VIDEO: MotoUSA Urban Cruiser Comparison: 2014 Star Bolt

VIDEO: MotoUSA Urban Cruiser Comparison: 2013 Sportster Iron 883

The Commute

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The MotherShip PressClub

RECALL Transport Canada BMW issued a recall on the F800GS, and F700GS models
On certain motorcycles, the side stand ignition cut-off switch could loosen and become damaged. As a result, the side stand switch would fail to turn OFF the engine if the side stand is extended while a drive gear is engaged. If the motorcycle is ridden with the side stand in the down position, the stand could hit the ground during a turn, which could result in a loss of vehicle control and a crash causing property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will install bolts to securely fasten the side stand switch (originally held by a circlip).

BMW Drivers Shine at the Diamond Cellar Classic with one win, three top-five?s and three top-10?s across four classes
Woodcliff Lake, N.J. ? June 17, 2013 . . . BMW drivers totaled one victory, three top-five and three top-10 finishes across four class of competition at Saturday?s GRAND-AM Diamond Cellar Classic at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, in Lexington, Ohio.
https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/pressclub/p/us/pressDetail.html?title=bmw-drivers-shine-at-the-diamond-cellar-classic-with-one-win-three-top-five%E2%80%99s-and-three-top-10%E2%80%99s&outputChannelId=9&id=T0142938EN_US&left_menu_item=node__787 ]...More[/url]

ROLLS-ROYCE INVITES YOU TO JOIN THE 2013 CENTENARY ALPINE TRIAL ONLINE
After months of planning, the Centenary Alpine Trial is now underway, with 48 Silver Ghosts wafting their way through the Alps, accompanied by the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars ?Works Team?
https://www.press.rolls-roycemotorcars.com/pressclub/p/rr/pressDetail.html?title=rolls-royce-invites-you-to-join-the-2013-centenary-alpine-trial-online&outputChannelId=4&id=T0142931EN&left_menu_item=node__2166 ]...More[/url]

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Cage World

petrolicious.com: BMW 700 saved the Ultimate Driving Machine

utahpeoplespost.com: Bayerische Motren Werke AG rating reiterated by Alphavalue (BMW)

www.bimmerfile.com: BimmerFile ? cage news options & reviews that matter

FWIW

TED: Didier Sornette: How we can predict the next financial crisis - Didier Sornette (2013)
by*TEDTalks
The 2007-2008 financial crisis, you might think, was an unpredictable one-time crash. But Didier Sornette and his Financial Crisis Observatory have plotted a set of early warning signs for unstable, growing systems, tracking the moment when any bubble is about to pop. (And he's seeing it happen again, right now.)

Reference Library

Bike Candy
suzuki-racing.com: Return to MotoGP racing
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Wednesday, 19 June

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Members with Birthdays this Month

SBK

crash.net: Eugene Laverty Q&A

MotoGP

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fim-live.com: Suziki returns as Jorge Lorenzo leads

visordown.com: Up close ? Suzuki XRH 1 MotoGP bike

motogp.com: Aragon Day 1 - Heavy rain as 2014 Honda debuts

motogp.com: Ajo surprisewd by Marquezs debut performances

motomatters.com: First day Aragon test a washout as Honda ramps up the pressure with new bike

motomatters.com: Barcelona post race MotoGP Test press release

Formula One

formula1.com: Lotus sells stake in team to investment group

jamesallenonf1.com: Investor group buys 35% stake in Lotus F1 Team

Other Racing

Cage and...

VIDEO: Porsche 918 Spyder Prototype Hot Weather Testing

On the Street

rideapart.com: Gear ? Dunlop Sprotmax Q3 tires

dealernews.com: Zero Motorcycles launches branded accessories line

canadianmotorcyclerider.ca: Schuberth C3 PRO Women's Flip-Up Helmet Now Available in Pearl Pink

motorrcyclistonline.com: Victory Cross Country

motorcyclistonline.com: 2014 Yamaha FZ-09 | First look

nortonmotorcycles.com: Norton goes to Canada

The Commute

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The MotherShip PressClub

Gu?a b?sica para nuevos motoristas
La conducci?n de una motocicleta demanda una mayor concentraci?n que la de un autom?vil, ya que el conductor requiere de una mayor habilidad, que le permita mantenerse seguro en cualquier circunstancia. BMW Motorrad publica las recomendaciones b?sicas para quienes apenas se integran al mundo de las dos ruedas....More


BMW Motorrad riders enjoy continued success in the IDM.
BMW is on the right path in its mission to defend the title in the International German Motorcycle Championship IDM. Three of the eight rounds of the 2013 season are now complete, with BMW Motorrad HP RaceSuppport backed BMW teams and riders continuing to claim wins and podium finishes as per previous years. In the fiercely competitive IDM Superbike category, BMW heads the manufacturers? classification with a big lead. In the riders? classification, the three top spots are occupied by BMW riders.
...More

Cage World

nbcnews.com: Will BMW be Tesla's frist competator?

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www.bimmerfile.com: BimmerFile ? cage news options & reviews that matter

FWIW

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/aYrafKbTqV4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Reference Library

Bike Candy

facebook.com:

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Thursday, 20 June

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Members with Birthdays this Month

SBK

worldsbk.com: Encouraging one day test at Mugello for Haga

worldsbk.com: Q&A with Max Neukirchner

crash.net: Chaz Davies - A tough ride to the top

MotoGP

motogp.com: Aragon Day 2 ? Lorenzo quickest, Suzuki arrives

yamaha-motor.eu: Yamaha completes Spanish visit with successful test

motomatters.com: Aragon MotoGP private test day 2 press releases

motomatters.com: 2013 Aragon MotoGP Private Test, Day 2: Lorenzo Smashes Pole Record, Pedrosa Rides 2014 RC213V

autozsport.com: Pedrosa rules out 2014 racing bike for now

motogp.com: Yamaha unconcerned over engine usage

motogp.com: Bradl shakes down new Honda at Aragon

autosport.com: Honda ready to race 2014 bike early

bikesportnews.com: Rossi confirms braking improvemen at Aragon

motomatters.com: Guest blog: Mat Oxley, When will Valentino Rossi win again?

bikesportnews.com: Suzuki likely to stick with an inline four in MotoGP

Formula One

reuters.com: Brawn needs brains to avoid tyre troubles

eurosport.yahoo.com: How the International Tribubal works

eurosport.yahoo.com: Formula 1 rules not details key to Paris hearing

jamesallenonf1.com: Crunch time for Mercedes and Pirelli over test row

f1times.co.uk: Indian GP organisers dismiss 'malicious' rumour

Other Racing

MC

VIDEO: 2013 FIM Trial World Championship - St Julia - (AND)

VIDEO: Enduro World Championship GP of Romania 2013

VIDEO: Team HRC - Desafio Ruta 40, Part 1.

VIDEO: 2013 Baja 500 Dakar Challenge 2013

Cage and...

VIDEO: Last Lap 2013 British Truck Racing - Brands Hatch

On the Street

rideapart.com: The 10 best motorcycles for carrying a passenger

motorcyclenews.com: Bavaria and back on the Beemer

motorcyclistonline.com: First Rides | Yamaha FZ8

The Commute

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The MotherShip PressClub

ROLLS-ROYCE WRAITH DEBUTS IN BELGIUM ? 100 YEARS AFTER THE FIRST ROLLS-ROYCE WAS SOLD TO A BELGIAN CUSTOMER
Today marks the Belgian debut of Rolls-Royce Wraith, the boldest, most dramatic and powerful Rolls-Royce in history. Featuring a contemporary two-door design, Wraith?s striking fastback body epitomises power, style and drama and was inspired by the great Grand Tourers of the Thirties.
...More

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Cage World

technologyreview.com: Whay Tesla thins it can make battery swapping work

www.bimmerfile.com: BimmerFile ? cage news options & reviews that matter

FWIW

eurogamer.net: MotoGP 13 review

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The post is a bit early today. I am off to work in a Project Home shelter for homeless families. Not your stereotype guest group or set of homeless issues.

Reference Library

Bike Candy

facebook.com: BMW Motorrad

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Friday, 21 June

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Members with Birthdays this Month

SBK

worldsbk.com: Gyorfi pleased with new BMW machinery

MotoGP

worldhonda.com: Positive second day for Repsol Honda Team in Aragon

motogp.com: Marquez pleased with 2014 Honda

motomatters.com: When will Yamaha's seamless gearbox arrive? Probably not this season

autosport.com: Rossi thinks he made a set-up breakthorugh in testing

motomatters.com: Aragon Motogp private test day 3 press release roundup

superbikeplanet.com: Suzuki MotoGP: Money Changes Everything*

Formula One

reuters.com: FIA accuses Mercedes of gaining from illegal test

bbc.co.uk: FIA ? Mercedes did not get permission

jamesallenonf1.com: Mercedes grilled at International Tribunal

formula1.com: Mercedes Pirelli verdict due Friday

f1times.co.uk: Mercedes refused Lauda's out of court deal

Other Racing

MC

dakar.fr: Bikes : The end of a series?
With three wins apiece, Cyril Despres and Marc Coma are tied in the roll of honour of the Dakar. But it is not a done deal that one of the two champions will forge ahead of the other in 2012: the...

speedbrain.de: Desafio Ruta 40 2013 Stge 4


fim-live.com: Husqvarna Enduro Team by Monster Energy CH Racing on top for for GP of Greece

fim-live.com: FIM Supermoto World Championship travels to east for the third GP

motogp.com: Marquez and Rossi considering offroad battle

VIDEO: 2013 FIM Sidecar World Championship - Rijeka (CRO)

Cage and...

reuters.com: Audi lock out top three slots in Le Mans qualifying


indystar.com: IndyCar relinquishing control of struggling Indy Lights

usatoday.com: IndyCar teams want more transparancy in penalty system

On the Street

rideapart.com: Review 2013 DR Z400SM
FWIW: Dang and Dang again. I have been watching the used market for these and thinking I was safe because they stopped selling new and I could always find something wrong with a used one. I just got over the idea and I come across this. Now I have to go back to saying I will wait for a full DR Z450SM. Dang this would do just fine for 99.9% of what I use a bike for these days. Does that make me a 0.1%er?

visordown.com: HUD in helmet sat nav
FWIW: The nerd in me finds these things really cool. Part of me is waiting for Google to come out with helmet if they haven't already and I missed it. At the same time the Ludite rider in me eschews these things. I still use paper maps on my trips with a hand held compass. I also wonder about safety. In The MotherShip section there is a report on BMW motorrads and cages talking to each other. Are we improving or becoming like our cellphone and texting cage counterparts?

ducati.com: Ducati in South America

hotbikeweb.com: 1998 Buell Thunderbolt | Super Tard

motorcyclenews.com: Best bikes under ₤5k: 2008-2009 Triumph Bonneville

VIDEO: California Superbike School video on Helmet Fit

VIDEO: 2013 MV Agusta F3 800 full review from Misano

dealernews.com: Harley-Davidson to monitor supply chain for conflict minerals

cycleworld.com: GoPro Hero 3 video camera product review

sportrider.com: 2013 riding jacket buyers guide.

thekneeslider.com: Mert Lawwill Street Tracker for sale

domesticcfuel.com: Motorcycles and E15

webbikeworld.com: Shark Vision R GT Carbon helmet - Review

VIDEO: Shark Vision-R GT Carbon Motorcycle Helmet

The Commute ? Focus is the key

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The MotherShip PressClub

Celebrating 90 years of BMW Motorrad - Concorso d'Eleganze Villa d'Este

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BMW Group cars and motorcycles that talk to each other demonstrate new ways to safer and more efficient mobility in the simTD research project.
The results of one of the world?s most extensive field trials of Car-to-X communication were presented in Frankfurt am Main.
...More

More power, more party: "50 years of MINI Cooper S" anniversary to be celebrated at Brands Hatch race track.
MINI Festival in the brand's home country 22-23 June showcases Monte Carlo Rally winners from five decades on the former Formula 1 race track
...More

BMW Group claims a total of 19 awards in the Automotive Brand Contest 2013.
BMW Group Design is named winner four times in the Exterior Premium Brand category and takes honours in the event category for a further two installations by BMW i and MINI. Top places go to another 13 BMW Group projects.
...More

25th BMW International Open: The Open Champion Ernie Els arrives in style in a Rolls-Royce Ghost.
Majestic coach doors, the iconic ?Spirit of Ecstasy? on the bonnet, and a 563-hp V12 engine: ever since it was launched in 2009, the Rolls-Royce Ghost has been the epitome of elegance, dynamics and technological progress. Captivating in every way, this remarkable car allowed Ernie Els (South Africa) to travel to the 25th BMW International Open in style on Tuesday. The reigning Open Champion at the wheel of a British icon from the Rolls-Royce factory: rarely have a driver and car been better suited to one another.
...More

Cage World
FWIW: Tesla is in the news again today but not in a way I think they want.
Transport Canada: TESLA issued a recall on the MODEL S model
On certain vehicles, due to imprecise adjustment during assembly, the support for the left-side rear seat back latch striker may be improperly fastened to the vehicle structure and could separate in a crash,..


www.bimmerfile.com: BimmerFile ? cage news options & reviews that matter

FWIW

spiegel.de: Interview with Hans von Storch on problems with climate change models

TED: Paul Pholeros: How to reduce poverty? Fix homes - Paul Pholeros (2013)
By TEDTalks
In 1985, architect Paul Pholeros was challenged by the director of an Aboriginal-controlled health service to "stop people getting sick" in a small indigenous community in south Australia. The key insights: think beyond medicine and fix the local environment. In this sparky, interactive talk, Pholeros describes projects undertaken by Healthabitat, the organization he now runs to help reduce poverty--through practical design fixes--in Australia and beyond. (Filmed at TEDxSydney.)

Reference Library

Bike Candy

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I am seeking help developing INDUSTRY MONITOR, the category working title of an information proposal for use by the BMW MOA. Please Private Message (PM) using the forum PM system with contact information if you are interested in participating after reading the general description of the project and this first working groups goals.

INDUSTRY MONITOR (IM)

Members of the BMW MOA have describe a variety of motorcycle industry and BMW AG information wishes. These range from broad industry analysis but from a BMW motorcycle owner perspective, recall and service bulletin information, business news about the corporation and more. In 2010 I began lumping these desires and ideas about meeting them under the heading of Industry Monitor. To date I have done more gathering and thinking than acting. I am seeking people to help bring this to life.

Initial Focus

Motorcycle and motorcycle equipment and accessory recall process, monitoring and reporting will be the IM initial focus.

The operating assumption is
- there are various government agencies that handle product safety and recalls as part of their mission. Regardless of a members political beliefs these agencies exist and do their work.
- for a variety of reasons motorcycle issues are underreported.
- in the past groups have developed databases and other tools that are redundant to those set up by government agencies. In addition these databases and tools may lack credibility when used by anyone to report or advocate a position.
- therefore, it makes sense from a variety of perspectives to maximize the use and monitoring of these governmental agency systems to meet a segment of the information needs and desires of the BMW MOA membership.

In the first phase focuses on the U.S. regulatory market; however, systems developed to do this must be rigid enough to be meaningful while being flexible enough to be expanded to the Canadian and Mexican regulatory markets.

What agencies are out there?
What do they monitor and regulate that is important to BMW MOA member?
How does a citizen use them?
How do their report their activity?

These are a few of the opening questions this group will have to get their arms around to develop a useful system that facilitates reporting of problems, monitors the agencies activities and reports to the membership in an ongoing basis the results.

In no particular order I am suggesting:

Member Training

Training members to use the various agencies is a key component of this project. The underlying assumption is that motorcycle issues are under reported for a variety of reasons. IM attempts to tackle two of the issues: lack of member knowledge of and how to use the agencies along with a sense of purposelessness because there is no monitoring system.

The member training component goal would be to increase the legitimate reporting of product issues to these agencies. To do this: an appropriate article or series of articles would be written for publication in ON which would :
- Explain IM to the membership
- Train them in how to use and report to these agencies.
Once published in ON the articles would be made available online for ongoing training and reference of members and motorcyclists visiting the BMW MOA website.

Monitoring

Once members are trained and used the system the goal is to monitor what is happening related to their and other fillings.
- Monitoring all motorcycle recalls.
- Monitor BMW product both motorcycle and automobile product lines.
- Monitor recalls and defects of motorcycle related riding gear and motorcycle accessories.

I am proposing a broad monitoring system be developed. One only needs to look at a few signature lines on the BMW MOA Forum to realize our members own multiple brands of motorcycles. The goal is to be helpful to the membership for all their motorcycle needs. In addition tracking of other brands can serve to increase traffic to the BMW MOA website thus possibly being a recruiting tool and or increasing the value of advertising space on the website.

Recalls for BMW automobile lines including BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce Motorcars would be tracked by the system. The goal here is to give a broad picture of issues for owners.

ON and the BMW MOA Website

I am seeking people familiar with both On and the website to:
- Author, assist in writing and editing articles on copy for use in these media.
- Develop databases and reporting tools compatible with the website and which can be distilled into tables or other graphics for use in ON as part of the reporting system for member use and by visitors to the website.

Timeline

My goal is to have a working group put together by July 10th. The goal of the working group will be to have a draft proposal prepared for the fall Board meeting. I believe this meeting will be held in St. Paul MN. to allow the Board to visit the 2014 rally site. A draft proposal would be presented to the Board, the Executive Director and the Media Editor at that time.

Disclaimer

My goal is to develop a information gathering and monitoring system to meet member needs. It is not to promote an advocacy position. What is done with the information by the BMW MOA and its members is up to them. The goal here is to gather the best information possible that the members have been requesting and nothing more. I am happy to work with pro and anti advocacy members as long as while you are working on this project you understand it is about information gathering, monitoring, reporting and nothing more.


I am off to tilt at this windmill. If you want to come along as fellow knight errant or Sancho Panza please PM me.

Please PM me with any ideas, comments or rants and leave this thread to its normal nonsense.
 
Last edited:
Saturday, 22 June

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