Etc.
etc.
GO WEST, YOUNG MAN
Talk about a demo ride: BMW of North America’s new “Best Test in the West” program gives motorcyclists a unique opportunity to test ride the BMW of their choice on one of seven three- or four-day tours through the Western U.S.
Even better, should an attendee decide to purchase a new BMW within 90 days of his test ride, he will receive a coupon equal to the full value of the tour toward BMW accessories. Prices range from $500 to $1200 per person. To book a test ride, East Coast residents should call 800/877-2784; West Coast residents should call 800/582-2263.
BUBBA HOOT
Four-time AMA Camel Pro Series Champion Bubba Shobert has been named Honorary Grand Marshall of the 1997 Honda Hoot Rally in Asheville, North Carolina, June 17-21. Following a kickoff speech from the personable Texan, rallygoers can revel in riding the splendid Great Smoky Mountains and famed Blue Ridge Parkway; partake in demo rides from Buell, Honda, Triumph and Yamaha; or just stay close to town and enjoy the ongoing entertainment, parties and the indoor vendor show. For more information and a free brochure, call the Hootline at 800/347-1289.
LIDLESS IN LITTLE ROCK
With much fanfare from motorcycle-rights activists, Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee recently signed legislation repealing the state’s helmet law for motorcyclists over the age of 21, making Arkansas the first state in 14 years to repeal or amend its helmet law. Other states considering similar legislation include Texas, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, West Virginia, Oregon, Florida, California, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey and Massachusetts. Could it be that freedom is making a comeback?
ROOST FOR KIDS
The popular Ride for Kids series benefiting the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation is putting a new spin on its events for 1997. For the first time, dirtbike riders will be able to join their street and dual-purpose brethren, as the June 1 date in Atlanta, Georgia, will include an off-road outing at Road Atlanta. This year’s series includes 14 events in 12 states, so there’s sure to be one near you. To find out how you can participate, call 800/253-6530 or 704/665-6891.
GUZZI OVERLOAD
Got a Guzzi? Good, get Guzziology. Compiled by noted mechanic Dave Richardson, this spiral-bound 626page book is intended to supplement the usual parts and service manuals, and thus contains everything anyone could ever want to know-and then some-about the Italian V-Twins. To order your copy, send $35 (plus $4 postage and handling) to Moto International, 2730 1st Ave. S., Seattle, WA 98134, or call 800/949-MOTO.
I WANT MY GPTV!
Good news, sports fans: First Auto Sports Television (FAST) and Spanish promotions giant DORNA have inked a three-year deal to produce all 15 rounds of the FIM World Roadracing Championship on a same-day basis. The races will be televised on Speedvision and Prime Sports, with American commentators on-site at each event.
STINGING SINGLES
American Jawa Ltd., importer of MZ motorcycles, has announced a “spec” roadracing series for its Yamaha-powered Singles. Based on the popular European Skorpion Cup, the U.S. equivalent will be run at AHRMA nationals, with contingencies available to the top-five finishers in that class, plus the AHRMA Sound of Singles, CCS F-1 and NASB GP Singles classes. For more information, call American Jawa at 516/938-3210.
