BMW Motorbikes

The history of Bayerische Motoren Werke, shortened to BMW, can be taken back over 90 years to 1916. Originally manufacturers solely of aeroplane engines, BMW were forced to stop the manufacture of these after World War 1 and the Versailles Armistice Treaty. Due to this reason, BMW began production of motorbikes in 1923, shortly after the end of World War 1, and then onto cars five years later in 1928.
Production of BMW motorbikes became a large part of BMW’s overall workload, which led the company to set up a subsidiary to look after the motorbike production only, entitled BMW Motorrad. With the focus to produce high quality bikes for both road and racing purposes, BMW employed the finest workers to ensure that their high expectations were met.
Designed, created and manufactured in the BMW Headquarters in Munich, Germany where all production still takes place, BMW’s first bike was the R32. Showcasing BMW’s classic motorbike engine, the flat twin boxer, the R32 is widely acclaimed as a fantastic first mass produced motorbike from an as then new motorbike company.

BMW began to enter several motorbike races soon after their production of motorbikes and over the years have won a variety of coveted motorbike titles around the world. With various accolades under their belt, BMW’s most famous title and record is definitely their Isle of Man TT status – BMW were the first winners of the desirable Isle of Man TT race who were not British. Winning this in 1939, the same year that World War II broke out, there was some minor controversy over this win – a German team to beat a British team was frowned upon by some.
Further to this, BMW also race motorbikes regularly in the famous Dakar Rally, a mixed vehicle race in which cars, trucks and motorbikes take part in, starting in Europe and ending Africa. A fierce competitor in the race, BMW have taken this popular title a highly respected six times. And just to add an extra shine to their trophies, they employ celebrity rider Charley Boorman to race for them.
Whilst BMW compete in a variety of motorbikes races, they also produce a highly popular range of touring motorbikes. Their most popular touring motorbike is the multi award-winning R1200 RT. Respected as one of the most comfortable and powerful touring bikes ever produced, it is second in terms of quality only to its sister bike, the K1200 LT, which is reputed to be the most luxurious motorbikes available today. Massively popular in the United States of America, these touring bikes are the ideal vehicle for riding along the wide, open roads of America – beautiful scenery on a beautiful bike.
BMW are a company whose values are clear. High quality vehicles, be them motorbikes or cars, which are both reliable and cost effective and can, in one way or another, be enjoyed by the masses. This has been the vision of the company from the start to the current day and they never disappoint. BMW bike owners should play it safe by obtaining insurance coverage. They should do adequate research to find the BMW Bike Insurance policy that suits their coverage needs.

Kawasaki in 2009

As all bike manufacturers roll out top models for 2009, Kawasaki is not left behind.
One of the top models that Kawasaki is going to have in 2009 is the New Vulcan 1700. It will come in four versions, namely the Voyager, Nomad, Classic LT and Classic. These models do not have pushrod-actuated valves and instead have an overhead cam in each cylinder. The absence of pushrods will enable these models to have faster revving and excellent performance on highways. The engine has a long-stroke design and a displacement bump, which contribute to power and torque. Each of these versions has EFI and a new electronic throttle valve system, which are monitored by dual sensors for greater throttle response.

The Classic is the fundamental model, while the LT is an improvement with windshield, backrest and soft bags. The Nomad is an improvement on the LT as it has passenger floorboards, hard bags, cruise control and a deluxe backrest. The Voyager boasts of being the best of the four, with a frame-mounted fairing and impressive bags.
2009 will see another top model from Kawasaki, namely the Ninja 650R. This model boasts of modernised styling and advanced suspension. The Ninja has DOHC 649 cc 8-valve parallel twin engines, which are fuel injected and liquid cooled. These engines use fresh fluid injection that enables the bike to have faster revs, uninterrupted low-mid rpm response and bottom-end torque. The Ninja exhumes cleaner with the help of a modernised exhaust, and the rider receives negligible fumes due to rubber-coated footpegs and rubber upper engine mounts. The 2009 Ninja 650R boasts of revised instrumentation, as well as integrated turn signals, dual headlights, a wider windscreen and a sharper tail cowl.
The Kawasaki ZX-6R is another top 2009 model that will lose weight, gain on torque and undergo some chassis modifications. A modernised fork and an improved fairing design are ready to dazzle the sportbike lovers. This model has the frame toughened at the rear engine mounts and swing-arm pivots. The engine is fitted at a steep angle to increase the center of gravity. Kawasaki introduces a mid-mount muffler in this model. The muffler helps in reducing weight and balancing the central mass. The engine covers, made of magnesium, contribute to the reduced weight. The camshafts are lighter than the older models and the ram-air ducts are bigger. The engine has been modified to improve mid-range performance and to better throttle control.
Other top models of Kawasaki that the year 2009 is going to see are the Super Sherpa and the 250 cc KLX250S. The Sherpa is a low-priced vehicle, which also offers low-maintenance. The KLX250S is a lightweight dual-purpose bike, which is slim and thoroughly styled. Its braking techniques have been improved and the rider can be at ease both on urban pavements and on adventures.
The best part about Kawasaki is that a buyer does not need to fall prey to switching, deceptive bait, push-sales or any hidden fee. Kawasaki promises to provide every customer with one-on-one customer service, which makes the buy worth the price. After you have purchased the Kawasaki that fits your budget and your taste, your next visit should be to an insurer that can provide you Kawasaki Bike Insurance.