This week in news...

What every Saturday needs: This week in motorcycle news looked a bit like this…

Thirst for adventure
 

The BMW GS was the best-selling bike over 125cc in 2016, according to figures just released, with 2987 sales. It was the first time that the off-road-targeted Adventure model outsold the standard R1200GS (1525 vs 1462).

Record breakers
 

A motorcycle parade organised by Staffordshire Triumph has been officially recognised by Guinness World Records as the longest ever parade made up of the British brand. September’s parade of 539 bikes surpassed the previous record of 362. The oldest bike was from 1937.

Right to repair
 

America is battling with legal challenges that could affect the whole world regarding repair laws. Currently manufacturers of software can use copyright laws to lock out access to vehicle diagnostics, meaning any repairs have to be done at official service centres, which creates monopolies. The US thinks this may be unlawful.

Sorry, officer
 

The Sentencing Council have changed the maximum speeding fine that can be imposed in serious cases. The maximum fine previously stood at 100% of your weekly wage, or £1000 (£2500 on the motorway) whichever is the lesser. On April 23 it rises to 150% of your weekly wage.

Keep on truckin’
 

American rental business EagleRider have announced a startling new warranty scheme for their used bikes. Any eligible bikes that are purchased from their fleet will come with a one million mile warranty on the engine, gearbox and drivetrain (although not including consumables, obviously). If your bike has done a million miles MCN would love to hear from you!

Polaris plunge
 

Polaris Industries, owners of Indian and the now defunct Victory brand, have announced a large fall in profits for 2016. The American firm’s motorcycle division have seen profits fall by an alarming 94% to just $1.6 million ‘due to recall expenses and low production rates’. There is a ray of sunshine for Polaris though, as Indian posted a 20% sales increase.

Mind your head

Some models of QTech helmet (also branded as Jix) are subject to a safety recall and should not be worn. The models affected are: the open face OP02 (also known as Q102) labelled on the strap with E9-05.1769 and E9-05.1952, the full face A5005 (also known as Q5005) labelled on the strap as E9-05.1679, and the flip-up A113 (also known as Q113) labelled as E9-05.1973.

BMW S1000 fault

BMW have announced a recall in the US for the 2016-2017 S1000RR and the 2017 S1000R. The recall relates to a potentially loose bolt in the bike’s rear suspension system. America’s Highways Safety Administration said the bolt connecting the shock deflection lever to the swingarm can come loose. So far there is no recall on UK supplied models.

Hotel’s custom bike service

The Hotel Restoration, in South Carolina, is offering custom bike consultations. Guests can work through a concept with Ivan Remusthen, once you’ve gone home, he gets to work. Just don’t tell the other half when you’re booking. Read more here.

Crash stats

Analysis of more than 9000 European motorcycle accidents reveals that the majority of riders injured on the continent are men under 24; in the UK the largest group is men aged 40-50. Over 50% of injuries are caused by cars, with Sweden being the only exception.

Scrambled, not stirred
 

Ducati have unveiled two special Scramblers, the Scrambler R/T and the Essenza, at the Motor Bike Expo in Verona, Italy. The R/T was designed by Anvil Motociclette to resemble the Ducati R/T of the 1970s. The Essenza, built by South Garage, is a ‘steampunk café racer.’ Read more here.

Guy rides the Six
 

Guy Martin will race the legendary Honda Six at the Castle Combe Grand National in July. The TT star will pilot the 297cc RC167 for a number of demo laps at the Wiltshire track, something MCN was told was a ‘deal-breaker’ when negotiating his Honda TT return.

New GSXS750 for £99 a month

The price of Suzuki’s new GSX-S750 has been announced. The £7599 machine will be arriving in dealerships in March and could cost you as little as £99 a month on PCP. The deal lasts for 37 months with an initial deposit or trade-in worth £1735.33 and a final repayment or guaranteed future value of £3729. Read more here.

Servicing deals at Krazy Horse

Krazy Horse in Bury St Edmunds are offering winter service deals on selected Harley-Davidsons. The firm have reduced labour rates on all servicing, repairs and modifications to just £50 per hour on Sportster and big twin Harleys and are offering free delivery and collection on bikes within a 30-mile radius.

Looking for the perfect two-wheeled companion? Visit MCN Bikes For Sale website or use MCN’s Bikes For Sale App.