Bob's BMW

Enter to Win a 2-Day Off-Road Adventure

Fri, 17 May 2013 16:09:48 +0000

Win an Off-Road Adventure

Bob’s is excited to announce we will be giving away a FREE 2-Day Off-Road Adventure in Western Pennsylvania. Between June 1 and July 1 every time you visit Bob’s you can enter to win—YES you can enter as many times as you want—but only one entry per visit (and we will be emptying the box each day so don’t even try it!). The dates are set for September 21-22, so you must be available those days; the prize is non-transferable. Complete details will be listed on our website by June 1. Continue reading to learn more about this exciting opportunity…

Xplor-Int. is a MSF certified and AMA sanctioned off-road training facility located just a couple hours away in Western Pennsylvania. The 2-day adventure combines skill building of the Basic Off-Road Course with advanced techniques for single track and obstacles, plus outdoor survival skills and camping tips. You’ll ride for two days on a combination of dirt, gravel, and bedrock roads, and camp overnight. The last half-day is spent wrapping up the concepts and giving you time to pack. If you are comfortable riding at the speed limit on public roads, you are ok to enter the drawing. And if you have taken any kind of training before, there are still plenty of skills to be learned and/or perfected!

The course enables riders to transition from the basics of off-road riding to the more complex techniques needed for multi-day trips on dual-sport machines. It teaches you skills that will enable you to transition from asphalt to double-track, single-track, and fire trails. You will also learn the fundamentals of straight lines, turning, body posture, and braking are combined to handle obstacles, stream crossings, and tight single-track. The course is intended to build confidence and break down barriers without destroying you and your gear.

You will be presented with real-world challenges so you can assess terrain and risk, then make good choices using the skills taught to you by the instructors. Xplor-Int. instructors have taken motorcycles into the world’s most challenging places, so you will learn from pros how to pack appropriately and manage your resources, as well as deal with emergencies. You’ll learn how to pack right, and how to ride your bike fully-loaded.

There are regular breaks throughout the day, and two breaks for meals each day which are cooked onsite. You’ll start riding at 8am and finish by 6pm, break for dinner, then continue with strategy sessions and a night ride.

Sounds pretty cool right?! All you have to do is fill out an entry form (or two or three or more!) next time you are at Bob’s and you could be the lucky winner. While we are working with Xplor to firm a couple dates exclusive just for our customers we thought it would be fun to send one of our own GS enthusiasts to check it out and report back! Check our website over the next couple of weeks for complete details and/or be the first in line at Bob’s June 1 to register to win! Questions? Contact hanna.creekmore@bobsbmw.com

An “Xciting” Opportunity to Improve Your Riding Skills

Thu, 16 May 2013 15:14:23 +0000

Roger Lyle hanging out at Bob’s BMW booth at Timonium Motorcycle Show

Ever rode like a racer? Can you honestly say that you’ve tested the limits of your machine, or even your own capabilities? Can you really get to know your bike without having to pay most of your attention to what other drivers are doing? If you answered “NO” to any of these questions, we’d like to take this opportunity to expand your motorcycling savvy and introduce you to Roger Lyle’s MotorcycleXcitement!

Roger Lyle’s MotorcycleXcitement is an array of highly skilled riders and racers who meet at real motorcycle race tracks like Summit Point raceway, home track of Bob’s BMW-sponsored racer Jeremy Cook. “Riders are given the chance to experience what it is like being a racer, but doing so at your own pace,” stated Jeremy when asked about the program. Jeremy is also a coach for MotorcycleXcitement and has enjoyed working with all skill-level riders.

The idea is to have riders of all makes and models paired up with professionals to become more acquainted with their machines and themselves as riders. Taking your bike to a professional track is a way to ride without concern for everyday hazards typically encountered on public roads such as other motorists suddenly stopping, vehicles pulling out in front of you, or vehicles going in opposite directions; not to mention the race track is clear of bumps, gravel, and other debris that could potentially be a real danger to a motorcyclist, especially when traveling at high speeds.

Typically when you think ‘race track’ you think of speed. While it’s true” track days” can be used to get that need for speed out of your system so you are not breaking the law on public roads, exceeding speed limits, and increasing the risk for you or someone else to be injured; they also are meant to familiarize the rider with their bike— How far can it lean? What is it like to brake hard going from 100+mph to 30 mph in a very short period of time? These are just a couple things the day will provide to you.

Once signed up, you’ll have access to “track days,” which are periods of time that riders have on the track with a professional. Riders are split up based on skill levels: Beginners, Intermediate, Advanced, and Racer (which requires authorized racing license.) Coaches will either follow you, critiquing you along the way or you follow the coach mimicking what they are doing. Either way coaches will speak to you one-on-one and provide you suggestions on ways to improve your skills.

Bob believes “track days” are the safe solution for the adrenaline junkies out there. This is one reason Bob’s BMW partners with MotorcycleXcitement each year to provide an exclusive day for the dealership and anyone who pre-registers to enjoy a day at the track. And this year Charlie Goss (Sales Advisor), Darryl Carmichael (Service Advisor), Lex O’brien (E-Content Manager), Brett Ricketts (BMW Certified Technician), and Jeremy Cook (sponsored S1000RR racer) will be packing up the trailer and heading to Summit Point on June 24th for Bob’s Track Day.

Registration fees include a pre-inspection of your bike the week before the actual track day, and orientation at Bob’s explaining what to expect; a full day of racing at Summit Point; lunch, cold beverages and snacks in between races; and a comfortable and shaded area to cool down and refuel in between races; plus a one year membership to MotorcycleXcitement which offers discounts on more “track days” and a free t-shirt. So head on over to Bob’s BMW, to start another chapter of your riding history!

Corporate Suit to Motorcycle Leathers

Thu, 16 May 2013 15:01:14 +0000

Linda Crill tells her inspiring story in the pages of her just released book, Blind Curves. Linda is a former corporate executive who at age 57 loses her husband to cancer. She finds her world upside down for the next 18 months as she tries to move on, however despite all of the suggestions and advice from friends and experts, she still finds herself asking, “What Now?”

With no prior experience riding a motorcycle and only 30 days to learn Linda commits to a 2,500 mile motorcycle adventure down the Pacific Coast Highway. Changing out of her corporate suit and into motorcycle leathers, Linda’s world is immediately broadened. She meets people she never would have met, see’s things she never would have seen, and learns life lessons she never would have learned had she not embraced the unknown and leaned into the ‘blind curve’ life put before her.

Join us on June 8th for Women’s Day at Bob’s as we celebrate women riders. Hear the experience, strength, and hope of “One Woman’s Unusual Journey to Reinvent Herself and Answer: What now?”

Books will be available for sale and Linda will be available 10-noon to sign copies. The day is an effort to unite men and women riders in celebration of the growing female riding community. A tech session is scheduled for the day as well as an hour long group ride that Linda will be joining us on, riding her 2010 BMW F 650 GS she purchased right here at Bob’s BMW! The first 10 people to RSVP to for the group ride will get FREE admission to Iron Bridge Wine Company’s 10th Anniversary Celebration ($25 value!) which is where the ride will end. To RSVP for the group ride, email hanna.creekmore@bobsbmw.com

To get more details on Women’s Day and other upcoming events, please visit www.bobsbmw.com

Bob’s Safety Program

Thu, 16 May 2013 12:48:18 +0000

In lieu of it being Motorcycle Safety Month, now is an opportune time to share details of Bob’s Safety Program with our eclub members. This effort is our way of stressing the importance of safe riding. One way you can increase safety on the road is by taking the Maryland Safety Foundation (MSF) Motorcycle Safety Courses.

Bob’s safety program was established last year to support the MSF’s primary objective to provide rider education and training. And now for the second year in a row, we are pleased to announce we are running it again. We want to personally thank the dedicated instructors that teach these courses and encourage new riders to get trained by such professionals. Continue reading to learn more about the financial rewards provided to active MSF instructors and recent graduates of the BRC…

The program rewards active MSF instructors and recent graduates of the BRC a 15% discount. In addition to the discount, graduates that purchase a new or used motorcycle at Bob’s BMW will receive a credit of $250 to apply towards the motorcycle purchase or to apply towards accessories for the motorcycle.

“The unfortunate reality is that motorcyclists don’t have the protection that cars do which is why riders must always be prepared, watch and predict what other vehicles are doing, and wear all the gear, all the time—ATGATT,” states Bob. What is so often referred to as an accident is actually an incident according to Law Enforcement Experts. The reality is that 9 out of 10 incidents occur not by accident but rather by complete ignorance, lack of proper training, or not practicing the skills learned through proper training. “This is why rider education is so important; through proper training and regular practice, the number of incidents on the road can be reduced,” states Bob who goes out to practice his skills every time he gets on a motorcycle.

Qualifying instructors and BRC graduates can apply the 15% discount towards apparel, parts, and accessories now thru February 28, 2014. The idea behind the program is elementary: lead by example. If instructors are wearing top-rated safety gear that they have been properly fitted for, their students will follow suit. Then, assuming the recent graduate of the BRC follows the example set by their instructor, the new rider is rewarded for taking the safety course with a 15% discount at Bob’s; which in a perfect world they will spend on properly fitted, head-to-toe riding gear!

On top of the 15% discount, when new riders purchase a new or used motorcycle they receive a $250 credit to use towards the purchase or towards accessories for the bike. It’s a win-win for everyone involved!

Not to mention, when anyone who is buying a motorcycle mentions who referred them, the person making the referral can receive a Bob’s BMW gift card up to $100! You can visit www.bobsbmw.com for complete details on the Safety program and all other programs now available at Bob’s BMW.

To qualify for the Safety Program, MSF Instructors must provide a copy of their current MSF ID card and class schedule for the 2013 courses they are teaching. Recent graduates of the BRC must bring in a copy of their course completion certificate. Questions? Contact hanna.creekmore@bobsbmw.com.

Motorcycle Safety Month

Thu, 16 May 2013 12:01:18 +0000

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month which is a nationwide initiative developed by The Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to remind drivers the importance of safely sharing the road with motorcyclists and to remind motorcyclists to make themselves visible to other motorists.

Bob sits on the board of the Maryland Motorcycle Safety Coalition and is an avid supporter of motorcycle safety awareness not just one time a year, but every day of the year. In an effort to help carry the message to everyone on the road, maybe you have seen one of Bob’s trailers riding around town with “Share the Road” graphics, or maybe you have seen the hillside banner which is visible from Route 32 that also states “Share the Road.” We have also spent some time on various military bases these past couple months supporting the motorcycle safety days and sharing important safety messages like “all the gear, all the time”—ATGATT.

When asked what he would like to share with readers Bob explained his theory regarding every motorcyclist’s responsibility, “practicing your skills every time you go for a ride is key to attaining and remaining proficient at all the skills needed to be a skilled motorist. Doing so will prevent you from being involved in an incident where you or your motorcycle could be damaged or injured.”

According to NHTSA, motorcycle fatalities have steadily increased over the past 14 years (with the exception of one year); in 2011, 14% of fatalities were motorcycle fatalities, totaling 4,612. Bob believes this does not have to be the case and we can turn this statistic around. NHTSA provides some key safety reminders to keep in mind while traveling on the roadways:

Never drive while distracted
Obey all traffic laws including being properly licensed
Motorcycles have the same rights and privileges as all other vehicles on the road
Never share a lane with a motorcyclist. Motorcyclists need a full lane width to maneuver
Motorcycles are difficult to see at times. Always check your mirrors and blind spots
It is difficult to judge a motorcyclists speed
Always signal before changing lanes so motorcyclists can anticipate traffic flow
Wait to be sure a motorcyclist is actually turning before you proceed. A motorcyclists may forget to turn off their turn signal.
Allow 3-4 seconds when following a motorcyclist
NEVER drink and drive. In 2011 9,878 people were killed in highway crashed involving a driver or motorcycle operator with a BAC of .08 or higher.

Motorcyclists must remember to:

Combine hand signals with turn signals when changing lanes or making a turn
Position yourself in the lane where you will be most visible to other drivers
Always wear a DOT compliant helmet
Always wear proper fitting riding gear from head to toe; preferably hi-visibility gear or something with a reflective trim.

Read the questions below and if you answer YES to any, there is a very good possibility you are not riding in properly fitted gear, making it more likely for an injury to occur if an accident were to take place:

Does your helmet shake or move around while riding?
Is your helmet 5 years or older since you or someone else started wearing it?
Does your jacket and/or pants balloon up or beat you up while riding?

If you are unsure if your gear fits properly, simply ask one of our apparel specialists for full apparel assessment during your next visit.

Bob’s Vintage and Classic Day

Tue, 14 May 2013 21:05:01 +0000

Join us May 18, 2013 from 9am-4pm for Bob’s Vintage and Classic Day.

Every year, the day before the British and European Bike Show in Clarksburg, MD, Bob’s likes to invite Vintage and Classic enthusiasts out to kick off the fun-filled weekend! So crank up your precious OLD-TIMER and ride to Bob’s rain or shine for a fun filled day:

Food
Wild Dog Gourmet Hot Dogs onsite from 10-2.

Vintage Judging Tips Tech Seminar
Join our seminar at 11am in the museum to find out if your Vintage Bike is blue ribbon worthy?! Here to teach the seminar will be one of the British and European Classic Motorcycle Day Judges, Paul Rubenson, to teach you what judges are looking for as they walk around hundreds of bike studying them so closely. RSVP TODAY!

Bob’s Official BMW Expert Quiz
Think you are a BMW expert? You can find out by taking Bob’s Official BMW Expert Quiz. Try to answer all the questions without using your smart phone! You can look at nearby beemers but not all the parts are on the surface to find. The quiz will be posted all day in the museum. Person with the most correct answers will win a prize (TBD)…Good luck!

Museum Tours
The Vintage Museum has just been updated! Stop by and explore and learn about the new machines on display! If you have any questions, you can ask Paul, Bob’s Museum Curator and he will have all the answers!

Women’s Day

Tue, 14 May 2013 20:41:17 +0000

Men and Women unite in celebration of the growing female riding community. Ride to Bob’s and help us celebrate on June 8 from 9am-4pm.

10am-Noon – Linda Crill will be returning for the second year in a row, this year with her JUST RELEASED book, Blind Curves: One Woman’s Unusual Journey to Reinvent Herself And Answer: What Now? She will share highlights from her 2,500 mile jaunt down America’s Pacific Coast Highway just 1 month after learning to ride! Get a copy of Blind Curves following the discussion and Linda will be available to personally sign your copy!

11am – General Maintenance and Roadside Safety Tech Session. Write down your service and maintenance questions – ask us ANYTHING!— drop them in the drop box, and Master Technician Steve Slunt will pull questions and answer them all face to face!

Noon-3pm – Group Ride to Iron Bridge Wine Company. First 10 riders to RSVP get free admission to Iron Bridge’s 10th Anniversary Celebration ($25 value!). Enjoy great food, fine wines, and fun among friends! RSVP for Group Ride TODAY!

Bob’s African Southern Cross Adventure

Tue, 14 May 2013 20:18:44 +0000

Arrive Cape Town, South Africa on November 6 and depart Johannesburg, South Africa – November 19.

Experience an ADVENTURE of a lifetime! Ride South Africa’s Cape Peninsula with Bob and Suzanne this November.

The itinerary includes:
• Stay overnight in Cape Agulhas – where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet
• Spend a night at a wine and ostrich farm in a 4 star Cape Dutch Country House
• Stay 2 nights “on the waterfront” in Knysna – South Africa’s most popular vacation resort
• Enjoy an authentic Zulu cultural experience in Kwa-Zulu Natal Province
• Ride the beautiful Swazi mountains and stay at a mountaintop resort in Piggs Peak
• Spend 2 nights “on safari” in a 5-star game lodge inside Kruger National Park

For more information and to book your trip go to www.ayresadventures.com.

BMW Motorrad USA Introduces The 2014 F 800 GS Adventure

Tue, 07 May 2013 13:12:27 +0000

Authentic GS Adventure Experience in a Mid-Size Motorcycle

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – May 2, 2013… Building upon a track record of success in the large-capacity and mid-size enduro segments, BMW Motorrad proudly offers the new F 800 GS Adventure. Based on the dynamic, off-road-oriented F 800 GS, the Adventure model offers an optimal combination of agility, touring practicality and off-road capability. Following the tradition of the popular boxer-engined GS Adventure models, it provides off-road-oriented touring aficionados, world travellers and endure fans with an authentic GS Adventure experience in the mid-size segment.

The F 800 GS Adventure is powered by the liquid-cooled 798 cc four-valve twin-cylinder engine featured on the F 800 GS, with electronic fuel injection, closed-loop catalytic converter and six-speed transmission. Delivering maximum power of 63 kW (85 hp) at 7,500 rpm, and with maximum torque of 83 Nm (61 lb/ft) at 5,750 rpm, this engine impresses with quick and lively response, powerful torque and low fuel consumption.

Engineered and equipped for world travel.

Like the F 800 GS, the Adventure model features a robust, torsionally resistant tubular steel frame, while the rear subframe is reinforced to accommodate the larger, 24-liter tank (6.3 gallons) (8 liters (2.1 gallons) more than the F 800 GS model), which increases the bike’s range. Like the F 800 GS, the Adventure model is equipped with ABS as standard, while further safety and performance-enhancing systems – Automatic Stability Control (ASC) and Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA) – are available as factory equipped options, and in the case of ASC, also as a dealer installed special accessory. These features position the BMW F 800 GS Adventure, along with the F 800 GS, as the safest mid-size touring enduro on the market.

The new F 800 GS Adventure is also available with Enduro mode as part of a package featuring ASC as a factory option.. At the push of a button, the rider can increase the slip threshold of the ABS and ASC systems when heading off-road, for an even more dynamic riding experience with improved acceleration and braking on loose terrain.

The F 800 GS Adventure boasts new, masculine bodywork that underscores its globetrotting abilities, while a new, very comfortable bench seat, a larger windscreen for improved protection against the elements and hand protectors also support this image. Other new standard features on the F 800 GS Adventure include wide enduro footrests, an adjustable, reinforced foot brake lever, an engine protection bar and a pannier rack which also functions as a tank protection bar.

Highlights of the new BMW F 800 GS Adventure compared to the F 800 GS:

• Based on the same versatile overall concept as the F 800 GS, with powerful twin-cylinder engine and agile suspension, but with enhanced off-road and globetrotting abilities.
• Robust and masculine GS Adventure bodywork styling.
• Balanced proportions, despite large rear tank.
• Larger, 24-liter (6.3 gallons) fuel tank (+ 8 liters/ + 21. gallons).
• Extended range (by approx.100 miles).
• ABS as standard, ASC as a factory-fitted optional extra or as a special accessory.
• Enduro mode as a new optional extra, in combination with ASC.
• Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA) as a factory-fitted optional extra.
• Reinforced rear subframe.
• More comfortable bench seat.
• Large windscreen.
• Wide enduro footrests.
• Adjustable, reinforced foot brake lever.
• Engine protection bar.
• Pannier rack also serves as a tank protection bar.
• Wide range of dealer installed special accessories and factory options.

Key technical differences at a glance:

BMW F 800 GS Adventure BMW F 800 GS
Tank volume: 6.3 gallons 4.2 gallons
Standard seat height: 35.0 in 34.6 in
Low seat height: 33.9 in 33.5 in
Low Suspension option: no yes, 32.3 in
DIN unladen weight: 505 lbs 472 lbs
Max load: 496 lbs 507 lbs
Dimensions
L / W / H: 90.7/36.4/57.1 in 90.6/36.2/53.0 in
Fuel consumption
55 mph 55mpg 62 mpg

Model Characteristics and Design

BMW GS Adventure is a byword for the finest in two-wheeled exploration.

For many years, the Adventure versions of the large BMW GS boxer bikes have been discovering far corners of our planet and pressing on where others have turned back. With the arrival of the F 800 GS Adventure, BMW Motorrad offers this same concept for the mid-size enduro segment for the first time – and just like the boxer-engined GS Adventure models, the newcomer is also built for increased off-road riding and operation under the harshest conditions.

High-torque, smooth running parallel-twin engine.

Just like the F 800 GS, the new F 800 GS Adventure uses the extremely compact two-cylinder engine inclined forward at an angle of 8.3 degrees with a displacement of 798 cc and four valves per combustion chamber. Equipped with electronic fuel injection, closed-loop catalytic converter and a six-speed gearbox, the engine excels with its quick throttle response, acceleration and low fuel consumption. Its system of balancing masses using a swivelling connecting rod that compensates for first and second-order inertia forces is the only one of its kind to be installed on a standard production bike. Valve actuation is by means of double overhead camshafts and speed-resistant rocker arms. Output of the liquid-cooled engine is unchanged at 63 kW (85 hp) at 7,500 rpm, with a peak torque of 83 Nm (61 lb-ft) at 5,750 rpm.

Robust chassis with reinforced rear frame and ABS as standard.

The chassis of the new F 800 GS Adventure is based on the proven concept used on the F 800 GS, featuring a robust, torsionally stiff steel frame in tubular construction with the engine integrated as a load-bearing element. The steering head connection via gusset plates and the one-piece double-strut swing arm made of diecast aluminum is unchanged. The only difference is that the rear frame in square steel tubing has been strengthened to allow for both the 8-liter/2.1 gallon increase in fuel tank capacity and the more rigorous demands on the bike’s off-road abilities. ABS already comes equipped as standard on the new F 800 GS Adventure, as it does on all BMW production motorcycles.

The new, extra-light and compact two-channel Bosch 9M BMW system featured on the F 800 GS is also included. It comes equipped with inlet valves that can be infinitely adjusted for even better response as well as wheel sensors that automatically monitor the distance between sensor and sensor wheel. ABS can be deactivated at the press of a button if the rider so wishes – ideal for riding in off-road terrain.

Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA) as a factory equipped option.

The list of factory equipped options includes a unique feature for the mid-size enduro segment in the form of Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA). This allows the rider to conveniently adjust the rebound damping of the rear spring strut in the same way as on the F 800 GS with a simple push of a button on the left handlebar panel, even while on the move. Depending on the damping mode selected – “Comfort”, “Normal” or “Sport” – the electronic control unit determines and sets the appropriate damping rate. This is done by means of a small, light stepper motor on the shock
absorber, while a corresponding symbol appears in the instrument cluster display. The spring
preload, on the other hand, is adjusted manually using an easily accessible hand wheel.

Automatic Stability Control (ASC) with new Enduro mode available as a factory equipped option.

A unique feature of BMW’s mid-size enduro segment is the Automatic Stability Control (ASC) system on the F 800 GS. This anti-slip control function regulates the amount of engine drive torque transmitted as a function of the friction coefficient between the road surface and the rear tire. This has the effect of preventing the rear wheel from spinning, thereby enhancing traction and handling safety. Riders can disengage the system by pressing a button, even on the move.

The new F 800 GS Adventure is the world’s-first mid-size bike to offer an Enduro riding mode as an option with ASC. When changing from roads to rougher terrain, a handlebar control enables the rider to simply switch to Enduro mode and thereby activate an ASC and ABS setting that has been specially tuned for off-road riding. In this mode, the ASC and ABS control logic is modified to delay intervention. The slip threshold is increased, resulting in improved acceleration and stopping power on loose surfaces at the same time as making the riding experience even more dynamic and active. The Enduro mode can only be ordered in conjunction with the optional ASC in the Enduro package, although ASC is available also on its own.

New styling and extended equipment features.

The new F 800 GS Adventure underscores its credentials as an enduro bike eminently suited to world travel as well as a safe and dependable means of exploring even the remotest regions of the planet with a host of specialized equipment features.

The introduction of the new F 800 GS Adventure clearly signals what its name promises. It takes its cue from the large boxer GS Adventure models by adopting the same authentic, and robust look. The characteristic GS styling continues to stand out clearly from all angles.

When it comes to ergonomics and comfort, the new F 800 GS Adventure further demonstrates its globetrotting capabilities with a seat that is more comfortable and slightly higher than the F 800 GS, making longer day rides even easier to cover. A lower seat can be selected as an accessory. Meanwhile, an enlarged windscreen provides even better protection from the elements, while sturdy hand protectors and adjustable brake and clutch levers are also standard..
Suitability for off-road use is further enhanced by widened enduro footrests with vibration-damping rubber tops that can be removed for riding off-road. The adjustable rest for the foot brake lever allows for optimum operation of the rear-wheel brake when the rider is in a standing position off road.

The severe operating conditions often encountered in rough terrain prompted the reinforcement of the foot brake lever and the inclusion of an engine protection bar plus the pannier racks that double as protection bars for the enlarged fuel tank. Its capacity of 24 liters/6.3 gallons means that it holds 8 liters/2.1 gallons more than the F 800 GS, increasing the bike’s range by around 100 miles.

Equipment Range

Optional equipment and accessories for a wide range of personalization.

BMW Motorrad offers its customary extensive range of optional equipment and accessories for further personalization of the new F 800 GS Adventure.

Options are factory equipped while accessories are retrofit items that can be added by BMW Motorrad dealers or customers themselves.

Optional equipment.

• Automatic Stability Control (ASC).
• Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA).
• Low seat.
• Center stand.
• Comfort package: onboard computer, heated grips, center stand.
• new: Enduro package: ASC, Enduro mode.
• new: Off-road tires.
• new: LED Fog Lights. .
• Anti-theft alarm system.
• Active Package: LED Fog Lights, ESA

Special accessories.

• Safety.
• Automatic Stability Control (ASC).
• new: LED Fog Lights.
• Anti-theft alarm system.
• Add-on spoiler (small and large) for hand protectors.
• Add-on windscreen spoiler, large.

Storage options.

• new: Tinted windscreen.
• Case Holder, large, for aluminum topcase.
• Aluminum case.
• Inner bags for aluminum case.
• Aluminum topcase.
• Waterproof tank bag.
• Softbag Sport, small.
• Softbag Sport, large.
• Enduro rear bag.

Sound

• Akrapovic sports silencer.

Ergonomics and comfort.

• Wind deflector set.
• Heated handlebar grips.
• Low seat.
• Splash guard extension, rear.

Navigation and communication.

• new: BMW Motorrad Navigator Adventure.
• Holder for navigation system, cable and accessory set.
• Function pouch for Navigator.

Maintenance and technology.

• Service tool kit.
• Center stand.

Colors

The new F 800 GS Adventure also signals its adventurous nature through two new colors.
In Sandrover matt, the F 800 GS Adventure stakes its claim to adventure riding. Racing red, on the other hand, lends the F 800 GS Adventure a particularly light and sporty look while accentuating its dynamic qualities.

Click here for a PDF.

Wanna See Something Scary

Fri, 03 May 2013 20:02:53 +0000

We’re GOING THE EXTRA MILE so that you won’t.

Everyday LOW PRICING on in-stock tires plus SAVINGS on installation labor…1 tire install for $50 or both for ONLY $75!* Metzler, Michelin, Avon, Continental, Dunlop, and more! Contact Us TODAY to schedule an appointment.

In case guilt tripping you is not enough, Bob’s is pleased to go the extra mile to encourage you to put fresh, SAFE rubber on your bike: Enjoy Bob’s everyday LOW PRICING on in-stock tires plus SAVINGS on installation! Contact Us TODAY to schedule an appointment.

*Certain models, such as LT’s require additional labor time, so installation price will vary. Offer cannot be combined with other promotion or discount.

Ride FREE in 2013!

Fri, 03 May 2013 14:29:20 +0000

The BEST Sport-Touring Experience For ONLY $289 Per Month!*

Purchase any In-Stock 2013 K1600GT/GTL before May 31 and get:

FREE Scheduled Maintenance thru 2013*
• 600 Mile Break in Service
• 3,000 Mile Oil Change
• 6,000 Mile Service

FREE BMW NAV IV GPS
Tour confidently using your FREE BMW NAV IV GPS. Manufactured by Garmin, the most trusted name in GPS technology.

FREE Engine Guards
Keep going in the right direction—and keep your bike protected from those who aren’t with FREE engine protection guards.

Two years after its release, the K1600 continues to out-perform its competitors. According to Rider magazine in May 2013 the K1600, “Mr. Big Stuff,” won the comparison test. “When asked to choose only one bike, four out of five chose the K1600GT!”

Contact Bob’s TODAY to schedule a test ride on the award winning luxury sport-touring bike! Shop all K1600 GT/GTL colors and options, and enjoy unbeatable added value ONLY at Bob’s BMW! This offer ends May 31…ACT FAST while supplies last!

Shop Online Inventory

*Scheduled maintenance is based on BMW service checklist. It does not include wear and tear items such as tires and brakes. All services in this promotion must be completed by December 25, 2013. A minimum of 600 miles is required for the 600 mile service, 3,600 mile minimum for 3,000 mile service and 6,600 mile minimum for 6,000 mile service. Offer cannot be combined with any other promotion. Listed monthly payment is based on $3,000 down, excludes taxes, tags, and applicable fees. 48 month term through 3asy ride financing. 3asy Ride is a retail installment sales contract with a balloon payment. Financing provided to well-qualified customers by participating BMW motorcycle dealers and assigned to BMW Financial Services NA, LLC or BMW Bank of North America. Rates are subject to change and are dependent upon credit approval. Contact a Sales representative for complete details.

Worrying Free Touring

Thu, 02 May 2013 01:58:28 +0000

Tour Confidently: Added value on BMW’s most popular touring bikes NOW thru May 31.

Find your way back to reality – no charge: Enjoy a FREE BMW Navigator IV GPS with your purchase of a new BMW R 1200 RT now through May 31.

Keep going in the right direction – and keep your bike protected from those who aren’t: Receive a FREE GPS AND engine protection bars with your purchase of a new BMW K 1600 GT or K 1600 GTL now through May 31.

FREE BMW Navigator GPS	FREE GPS & Engine Protection Bars	FREE GPS & Engine Protection Bars

2013 R 1200 RT	2013 K 1600 GT	2013 K 1600 GTL

Contact “>Charlie or “>Carter for details on April specials.

BMW Motorrad USA reserves the right to cancel the program as it deems necessary.

KLIM is Now Available at Bob’s

Thu, 02 May 2013 01:53:30 +0000

We believe: You ride the BEST bike, you should wear the BEST gear! Bob’s is proud to add the KLIM brand to the Premium Riding Apparel offered at Bob’s. Klim (pronounced: ‘Climb’) is the rising star in technical riding gear. With their superior GORE-TEX® materials and construction techniques, Klim guarantees your ride will stay DRY!

Check out KLIM gear NOW at Bob’s!

Ride to Bob’s on International Female Ride Day

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 20:33:22 +0000

International Female Ride Day© is a global campaign for women motorcyclists who own, ride or have access to a motorcycle or scooter. The day invites women to “JUST RIDE”.

By participating and riding on this globally synchronized united day, women underline and demonstrate their passion, ability and enthusiasm for motorcycling. Women participants are role models contribute to the activity by building awareness of female motorcyclists. This worldwide, synchronized unified presence further demonstrates through every cultures and in one language the fun and enjoyment females of all diversities share in this wonderful activity, in all its forms/variations – of motorcycling!

The event occurs on the first Friday of May each year. Women participate by simply being on their motorcycle to “JUST RIDE” …

to work
to meet a friend(s)
to a fitness class
to their local motorcycle retailer
to a country road
to take an off road or track day course
to a shopping mall
to your friends charity event and so on.

The day invites women to be on a motorcycle. It is not an organised ride nor is it a ride for charity. There has no directive so to speak, other then simply getting on your motorcycle, scooter or trike. It’s a simple action designed not to dilute the events core message- of highlighting women motorcyclists!

It isn’t surprising however, that numerous women’s groups are organized to JUST RIDE on the first Friday in May. Clubs, groups, organisations or solo- women incorporate their own purpose or theme. Often these events include a fund raiser of their local preferred charity or simply solidify camaraderie!

This campaign was introduced by Vicki Gray director of MOTORESS to ensure the growth of women in motorcycling. The only request is that women get out on their motorcycle, scooter or trike and “JUST RIDE”!

Motorcycles of all brands, types, styles, capacities and forms. Motorcycles for street, off road/dirt or scooter, sport, duo-purpose, cruiser, touring, trike or ATV.

This is one day devoted to women riders! Women of all ages and all experience levels demonstrating their personal passion, pleasure and camaraderie, unified in a globally synchronized action – together in the activity of motorcycling- around the world!

For more information, click HERE.

Update To Vintage Museum To Be Unveiled Day of Open House

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 14:03:54 +0000

Bob’s Vintage Museum.

If Bob could have three wishes for the shop, one would be a larger facility for many reasons but one reason in particular being additional space to expand the Vintage BMW Museum. Until that wish is granted, Bob will work with the space he has and keep the displays updated as often as he can with new and exciting machines for visitors to enjoy. An change to the museum is currently in the works and expected to be unveiled the day of Open House, April 27th. He and museum curator, Paul Rubenson will be available the day of Open House to walk visitors through the museum and share the history of the BMW motorcycles on display.

Currently the museum has 3 sections: the first includes a variety of motorcycles up to 1969; the second section is the psychedelic and colorful 70’s; and the final section includes “conversational” motorcycles that have unique and fun back stories.

Bob ‘s passion is for the black and aluminum era, so one might argue the museum currently weighs a bit heavy on that period of motorcycles. As museum curator, Mr. Rubenson reminded Bob that in order to include models manufactured in the 80’s and 90s, two decades currently not represented, some of those beautiful black and aluminum machines must be rotated out.

And so the museum update begins! On Open House, April 27th, Bob and Paul will unveil the newest bikes and take visitors on a journey from 1923 all the way into the 90’s! For those who are not familiar with Bob’s personal collection, it is quite extensive so the question still becomes which models from the 80’s and 90’s to publically display?

Mr. Rubenson explains, “many of the bikes in Bob’s collection have amazing stories behind them, but to be museum worthy, bikes must fit three criteria. First, the bike must be attractive. Next it needs to be original; no customizations or modifications. Third, if it is not original it should be 100%, perfectly, and authentically restored. There are many bikes in Bob’s collection that are a hoot to look at and have interesting back stories to read about but unfortunately due to lack of space they cannot have a permanent place in the museum. Instead those bikes are saved for event days and are brought to the museum just for the day to spotlight.”

A prime example of this is the K1100LT we are “inducting” into Bob’s collection at this year’s Open House. Iron butter, Dave Cwi will be joining us at Open House to turn his bike over to Bob’s collection and share exciting stories of his many encounters riding hundreds of thousands of miles on this reliable machine.

So in summary, Bob’s is updating the Vintage Museum with newer and very cool motorcycles and wants you to be the first in line to see them on April 27! Not to mention all of the other fun and exciting things going on that day including an onsite DYNO machine to test your bike’s power and performance, a bike show with an award presentation including ribbons and trophies, tech session, guest speaker, food, prizes, one day specials, and lots of on-site vendors!

Help Wanted

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 21:26:53 +0000

As business grows, so does our team of fun and friendly motorcycle enthusiasts! Bob’s is happy to welcome our new Service Assistant, Chris Coogen, and Jim Leitholf, our new Parts/Apparel/Accessory Specialist. With that said, Bob’s is also pleased to announce we are looking to fill two more positions: Apparel Sales Specialist and E-Sales Assistant.

If you like shopping here you will love working here even more, just ask our newest employees who have both been loyal Bob’s BMW customers for years. Jim used to visit the shop across the street and every time would say to his self, “what a cool place this would be to work.” I suppose that is how he came up with, “Living the dream” as his one-liner on his name tag. (Bob lets all of his employees have a little fun with their name tags). So now, after years of serving on the Anne Arundel Police Department, Jim suits up in the morning, hops on his 2004 R1150GS and rides to Bob’s to provide the same exceptional customer service he received as a customer on the other side of the counter!

Our new Service Assistant, Chris is another long-time customer. After years of teaching math, science, and computers to middle school children, he decided it was time for a career change and shifted gears towards another passion of his…BMW motorcycles, specifically /5’s! Chris will be assisting technicians in the service department to help them to provide your bikes the best service possible.

As for the newest positions available, below is a description of each.

Apparel Sales Specialist (part time) – Help riders identify and obtain the riding gear and apparel that would enhance their motorcycling experience. Applicants must be friendly, outgoing, and dedicated to providing superior customer service. Excellent organization, computer, and communication skills are required. Previous experience and a basic knowledge of motorcycles and technical riding gear of any brand are preferred. Hourly wage plus commission.
E-Sales Assistant (part time) – Assist a small team handling the online sales aspect of our business. Applicant must be self motivated but also able to take direction. Must have exceptional attention to detail (proof reading/text editing), be proficient with PC and MAC, and be familiar with best practices in merchandising on the web and social media. Basic photography, photo editing and/or graphic design skills, experience posting to eBay, and interest or working knowledge of motorcycles or powersports industry preferred. Training and equipment provided. Flexible hours at hourly wage. Perfect for web design or ecomm major.

Help us spread the word so we can fill these positions as soon as possible. Perhaps you are the perfect person for the job or maybe you know who the right person is…we pay for referrals! Anyone interested can complete a Bob’s Application and send it directly to Suzanne.henig@bobsbmw.com or call her at 301-497-8949 ext. 211.

Local GS Adventure Is Calling Your Name

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 21:02:05 +0000

Riding distance from Bob’s BMW.

For the second year in a row Altrider is hosting a dual sport ride that is within riding distance from Bob’s BMW! And what is even cooler is the proceeds help to preserve land for off-road riding which as you all know, we don’t have much of in our region, so it is a great cause to be a part of!

The cost is $225 per rider and includes nightly entertainment, a keg of beer at the campsite, five meals including a pig roast, slideshow presentations, prizes, and of course off-road seminars and GPS routed rides for all skill levels.

GS Rider of Bob’s BMW, Michael White stated, “I went to the ride last year. It was awesome. Lots of different types of terrain and a nice mix of riders.”

Should you decide to partake in this epic off-road adventure you can pre-register online. Then mark your calendar and get you and your bike ready to head to Woodward Caves Campground on June 7th. Arrive, get settled in, and enjoy your first evening by the campfire eating, drinking, and getting to know your fellow riders! Be sure to pace yourselves Friday evening because Saturday is going to be a fun-filled and very exciting day of riding through “diverse terrain, including stunning forests surrounded by lush foliage, narrow bridges, sand crossings, and never-ending gravel and rock.”

Throughout the day, seminars will be held teaching off-road riding techniques and mid-way through the day, you will stop for a scenic lunch at Hyner Run State Park. The day ends with a pig roast accompanied by ice cold beer awaiting you back at the campground. That evening you will enjoy a prize ceremony along with an exciting presentation from a surprise guest.

When you wake up Sunday, grab some breakfast, tour the largest cave in Pennsylvania, located right at the campground, or get an early start back to your home base, it’s your call.

Off-road riding is so limited in our region which is why Bob’s is always thrilled to share cool events like this one, that provide GS riders opportunities to get their bikes dirty and have some fun.

If you know of an upcoming dual sport adventure, training course, or group ride, contact hanna.creekmore@bobsbmw.com. We want to provide as many resources to our customers as possible. GS Riders of Bob’s BMW Facebook page is a great source for GS enthusiasts to share information with one another and of course you can always check our events calendar for both Bob’s events as well as other events hosted in the region.

Finally, if you decide to register for this or any other adventure throughout the year, email hanna.creekmore@bobsbmw.com so you can represent Bob’s BMW to the fullest!

Lee’s Arts On Display At Bob’s Open House

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 20:55:51 +0000

Lee’s sculptures.

Lee Hulteng is an artist Bob met earlier this year at a swap meet who designs metal sculptures out of old motorcycle and car parts. The uniqueness of these sculptures immediately caught Bob’s artistic eye. Not only is the overall concept of using recycled motorcycle parts a cool idea in itself, but many of the sculptures are more than just displays, they are functional; some are clocks, some offer storage, etc. To get an idea of Lee’s art you can visit his website, www.leesarts.com, but to see his work in person, join us April 27 at our Open House. Lee will be here with a full display of his work!

Not only is Lee’s art interesting, so is he! Lee got his “figure it out, make it work” approach from his father who was an engineer and got his artistic side from his mother, a talented artist and musician. In high school, after getting a reputation for having a steady hand, many of friends began turning to him to do custom brush work on their cars and motorcycles. He graduated junior college with an Associate of Arts degree in commercial art and went on to work as a freelancer, for ad agencies, at design studios, and for a local television station in his town. Later he became the staff artist of the Grand Forks Herald newspaper in North Dakota. Years later he landed in Maryland after being offered and accepting a job in Washington D.C. as senior illustrator for Knight Rider/Tribune News Service (now McClatchy Tribune).

If you visit his website, you will see his talent goes far beyond metal sculptures. In fact, his sculptures are more of a hobby. That is not to say the sculptures are armature by any means; just that the story telling and attention to detail in his illustrations is even more impressive!

Bob’s Newest Toy

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 20:34:03 +0000

Bob’s new toy!

Although still very much enjoying and getting many miles out of his 2007 R1200GS, after experiencing the all new 2013 water cooled R1200GS at the dealer launch in Morocco, Bob decided the time had come to upgrade his 2007 GS and pass along the keys to a very lucky customer looking to purchase a well taken care of, “Bob’s BMW Advantage Certified,” pre-owned motorcycle.

Having just ridden the 2013 R1200GSW, one might assume he emailed his Sales Manager from Morocco to request a 2013 GSW be put aside, but he didn’t. After 30 plus years in the business and after seeing the newest GS live up to everything the reviews have said; Bob knew customer demand was going to easily surpass BMW supply. And the last thing he would ever want to do is take the keys out of the hands of one of his customers…he would never live that down!

So long story short (too late!) upon his return, what was sitting on the showroom floor? A brand new 2012 R1200GS left from last year’s inventory in his favorite color scheme, Alpine White. Hence, the back story of how Bob chose to upgrade to a 2012 GS as opposed to the all new 2013 R1200GSW model.

The service department just finished customizing paint and adding on accessories, fully loading Bob’s newest toy making it ready for his next adventure and long route to work he frequently takes advantage of. In the coming images, you will see the installation of PIAA LED driving and fog light sets, front and rear Weiser LED turn signals, BMW Nav IV GPS, Hammerhead shift lever, Adventure foot pegs, Interphone iphone holder, Bob’s BMW engineered wrist wrest, GrabOn grip covers, and BMW Vario hard luggage, fitted with red Kathy’s bag liners to compliment the red in the alpine white color scheme and custom painted red Hepco & Becker engine guards.

This motorcycle is an all around great example of the fun you can have working with our parts, accessory, and service departments to customize your dream machine to make it an even bigger dream come true! If you’re looking to stand out from the crowd, stop by and speak with any of our parts and accessory specialists or technicians in service.

View Images

Shop All Weekend Tax FREE!

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 12:50:53 +0000

NO TAX on purchases in-store or shipped within Maryland April 12th thru April 15th.*

Tax deadline day is just around the corner, reminding many of us how nice it would be to STICK IT TO THE MAN! Bob’s wants to help…Friday, Saturday, Sunday, AND Monday any parts, accessories, or apparel purchased will be TAX FREE! If there is something you want and it isn’t in stock, simply place your order, pre-pay in full and still get it tax free!

Prior years our customers have saved over $10,000 during Bob’s tax-free days…surely you want a piece of that?! Stop by, call, email, fax, shop ONLINE, send us a message in a bottle, whatever! Just get it done and paid in full by Monday, April 15 and get it tax free!

*This offer applies to parts, accessories, and apparel paid in full in-store and/or being shipped within Maryland– with the exception of items that have been previously ordered or on an existing repair order. Sorry our no-tax offer does NOT apply to new motorcycles, used motorcycles, scooters, or sidecar rigs. Tax will appear on all invoices (required by law) but the equivalent amount will be deducted from the total.

Ride in Security like never before…with B.O.S.S.

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 19:50:01 +0000

Bob’s BMW proudly announces…
Bob’s Overhead Security System —or B.O.S.S.

It’s a new high-tech safety solution that offers a multitude of enhanced safe-riding benefits exclusively for Bob’s customers who enroll in our great program!

It turns out that being the most prominent BMW dealership in the Washington DC area’s has its advantages!

In partnership with the U.S. Military at nearby Fort Meade, and the National Security Agency (NSA), whose top secret facility is only three miles from our dealership, Bob’s BMW has developed an amazingly effective peace time use for unmanned reconnaissance aircraft – or “drones.” These small, remote controlled aircraft are bristling with the latest high-resolution cameras, surveillance sensors, and listening devices. (We’re told to rest assured that they’re unarmed!) And now, Bob’s has a dedicated fleet of them whose sole purpose will be to circulate nationwide as our friendly, though unseen, “Eyes in the Sky!”

Imagine the peace of mind you’ll have knowing that our friendly drones are in the air at all times acting on your behalf. Yes, every time you ride, you’ll know that we’ve got your back!

By constantly monitoring travel conditions on the ground – to a degree of precision never before thought possible – the B.O.S.S. drone fleet will take the “guesswork” out of motorcycle riding by keeping track of constantly changing traffic and road conditions, as well as alerting you to the exact location of such dangers as severe storms, roads under construction, accidents, official checkpoints, and other police activity. You’ll even know where the potholes are – BEFORE you see them!

How does B.O.S.S. work? EASY! If you have had a BMW Nav IV or Garmin GPS unit installed on your bike at Bob’s in the last two years, or even if you bought it from Bob’s and installed it yourself, you are ALREADY “PLUGGED IN” to our surveillance system! That’s right, our Eyes in the Sky already know where you are – and WHO you are! But whether you have a GPS now or are planning on buying one soon, you’ll need to enroll in our program in order to actually utilize the benefits of this technology. Because when you’re a member of our Early Warning Safety Program, all the specific information you need to ride safely in today’s increasingly hostile traffic environment is delivered right to your on-board GPS unit – in real time as you ride!

How much, you ask? You’ll be AMAZED to learn that membership in Bob’s Overhead Security System is completely affordable.

Sign up for our Standard Early Warning Security Package, which includes all the incredible features described above, and you pay an unbelievably low…
$89.99 per month!

But that’s not all. Sign up for the Deluxe Early Warning Security Package and you’ll have the added peace of mind of being able to track the exact location of your family and friends at all times — PLUS you’ll be warned IN ADVANCE of potential “threats” such as mass political protests, undisclosed armaments in the hands of unfriendly militant groups, the presence of unauthorized chemical or biological weapons, and even clandestine meetings of known or extremist political organizations and anti-American subversives such as the A.C.L.U., all for only…
$119.99 per month!

Now you, as a Bob’s BMW Rider, can travel anywhere in these United States knowing that B.O.S.S. technology is at work to guarantee your Riding Pleasure!

Click HERE to sign up NOW!

New Water-Cooled BMW R1200RT Spied Testing

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 21:01:37 +0000

Appeared in Motorcycle News
March 22, 2013
By Andy Downes

New water-cooled BMW R1200RT

A fleet of all-new water-cooled BMW R1200RTs have been spied carrying out road testing in the South of France ahead of the launch of the completely new bike in 2014.

The R1200RT is the current best-selling tourer in the UK but will be replaced next year and use the same all-new water-cooled 125bhp motor from the recently launched BMW R1200GS adventure bike.

The GS was completely re-engineered with not just a new boxer engine but also a new chassis and a single-sided swingarm, shaft drive and exhaust system.

Four new bikes have been spotted testing in France – handily the BMW test team opted to cover the bikes in garish black and white swirly decals which meant they were easily seen. If they had just been painted black it’s highly doubtful anyone would have noticed!

2014 BMW R1200RT

Spy shot of the BMW R1200RT[/caption]We can see from the images they bike has the new engine from the GS along with the swingarm and shaft drive unchanged. The exhaust has a different silencer to the GS but this may not be the fully-finished production version.

The front shots show the bikes have fitted, at least as an option, the adaptive headlights from the BMW K1600GT model which adjust the level and actually tilt with the bike as it corners to give a longer view up the road while the bike is leant over.

The front fairing is modified too with new plastics around the new lights. The side panels have new air-ducts which are sited next to the new twin radiators which are now an integral part of the cooling of the new engine.

Timonium Show Winners Announced

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 20:58:50 +0000

Timonium Motorcycle Show Winners Claim Their Prizes At Bob’s BMW

3 of five winners claim their prizes!

1. Jim Dunkerson of Pasadena, MD is the Grand Prize winner of a $400 shopping spree!
2. Tony Jordan of Baltimore, MD wins a $200 shopping spree!
3. Tony Bennett of Springfield, VA wins a $100 shopping spree!

Other winners not pictured: John Stumpf from Selinsgrove, PA won a $100 shopping spree and Lisa Gunnet of York, PA won a $200 shopping spree!

Jim Dunkerson

Tony Jordan

Tony Bennett

What’s Happening at Bob’s?

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 18:49:35 +0000

It’s that time of year again! Time to mark your calendars, put the rubber to the road and ride to Bob’s for some fun and exciting events starting with our Spring Open House and Season Kick Off on April 27th…

LOOK at all our features! We will have a DYNO onsite so you can see how powerful your bike REALLY is; enter our CONCOURS with blue ribbons and trophies to hand out in 4 separate modern and vintage categories; a TECH SESSION on High Performance begins at 11 in the service department; Guest Speaker Dave Cwi talks about his HIGH MILEAGE adventures, then his venerable, odometer-abused bike will be inducted into the Bob’s Vintage Museum; Take a MUSEUM TOUR with Bob spotlighting some never before seen machines from his collection; Vendors including ÖHLINS will eager to show you their latest; You won’t go hungry because the Blue Knights will be serving PIT BEEF and beverages; Our sponsored S1000RR Racer Jeremy Cook will be here with his bike to meet and greet; Last but not least, In-Store, One-Day-Only SPECIALS on select apparel and accessories will be tempting you at every turn! And there’s more! Details on Open House and other 2013 events are available on our website, regularly updated as more is revealed.

Speaking of events, last year after seeing the growing popularity of our tech seminars, we have committed to hosting at least one seminar a month this year. We are always interested in ideas and topics. If you have a suggestion, please send to hanna.creekmore@bobsbmw.com

On another note, 2013 marks the year of the three year cycle when motorcycle apparel manufacturers update their product lines, so we have some very new and exciting riding gear in-stock for those of you always looking for the latest and greatest; which on the other hand also means that with all of the new coming in, we need to get the old out…so our PAA department has some great closeout specials!

Finally, anyone interested in a once in a lifetime adventure can contact bob@bobsbmw.com directly for details on a 14-day motorcycle tour of South Africa he and Suzanne have planned for November of this year with Ayres Adventure (whom will be here April 27 for Open House!).

Needless to say, as always…lots going on at Bob’s BMW, your #1 destination dealer!

A Superior Helmet Choice

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 18:30:39 +0000

Based on the reviews online, it looks like Schuberth paid attention to customer feedback when designing the upgraded version of the C3 flip-up helmet, the C3 Pro—now available at Bob’s. The C3 Pro features a new spoiler helping to improve its aerodynamics, a new inner liner offering a better fit, and thanks to Schuberth’s wind tunnel tested design the C3 Pro is quieter than ever!

Sarah Schilke from Schuberth North America visited Bob’s in February to personally introduce and explain the upgrades to the helmet. The changes are subtle but once you test both helmets, no one can argue the newer version is superior. It is lighter, quieter, its visor and flip front is easier to use, and it is an overall better fit. Bob’s offers test rides with the C3 helmet and now with the C3 Pro in stock, we encourage you to come in and see the differences for yourself.

The better fitting inner liner is completely removable and washable. The new spoiler was designed and tested to prevent lift at speeds over 100 mph. At 60mph, the helmet is only at 82 decibels making it the world’s quietest helmet. It comes with a built in FM radio with better reception and range than its predecessor, allowing the SRC system to communicate with other systems up to half-a-mile away. And unlike other helmets that advertise anti-fog, the anti-fog feature in the C3 Pro really works offering better visibility for riders on colder days. Finally, as the inventor of the flip-up helmet, the new sun swivel visor feature offers great sun protection plus makes it convenient for riders wearing glasses.

The C3 Pro is available for men and women in gloss and matte black, white, silver, and Hi-Vis. As with the C3, Schuberth offers a women’s version of the C3 Pro, designed specifically with a woman’s facial structure in mind, plus the C3 Pro Women helmet will be available in pearl pink!

Complete Specifications

Where in the World is Bob?

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 18:16:44 +0000

Where in the world is Bob? Attending the dealer launch of the 2013 water-cooled R 1200 GS in Marrakesh, Morocco that’s where!! Jealous?! We are too but be patient it won’t be too much longer until BMW’s latest innovative machine is here and available for test rides. According to BMW Motorrad these bikes should be arriving by the first of April (no joke!).

The introduction of the water-cooled R 1200 GS is taking BMW motorcycles in a new and exciting direction. With this new design, we can only assume it is just a matter of time before the R1200R and RT follow suit and become liquid cooled, closing one chapter in BMW history and beginning a new one!

Since 1994 this is the first complete redesign of BMW’s flat iconic twin engine and the design is nothing short of perfection:

Combined air/liquid cooling improves cooling efficiency and keeps engine temperature in check

Precision cooling (a technology used in Formula 1 racing) is directed primarily to the cylinder head where cooling is most critical allowing for a compact, light-weight radiator

Light weight radiators = better dynamics and more appealing design with less exposed, plus higher placement (great feature for an off-road bike!)

More horsepower (125hp) and torque and less fuel consumption (6% less!)

Airbox and intakes have higher placement which improves water crossing ability

Vertical flow from the airbox and cylinder intakes moving from the back to the top of the engine, improves engine response

Same length intake ports and injectors are now closer to the valves for optimal throttle response

For the first time a flat twin’s gearbox is integrated into the crankcase for enhanced torsional rigidity, a more compact power-train, and improved gear shifting

New 8-disc multi-plate wet clutch improves resistance to overheating

3 ramps in the supporting plate and clutch drive for anti-hopping (slipper clutch) properties and to self energize clutch engagement, offering reduced clutch pull effort plus the clutch is more easily accessible simplifying and reducing maintenance costs

Improved gear shifting

Combined engine and gearbox chambers eliminate the need for a separate gearbox oil change, reducing costs of maintenance

Other Exciting Features

For the first time in GS history…cruise control!

New continuous tubular steel bridge type frame including a bolt on rear frame that can be easily replaced if damaged, as well as bolt on rear foot pegs that can be removed saving weight and preventing potential rear frame damage, plus reduced width in leg area improving handling and resulting in a better riding experience.

5 ride modes: rain, road, dynamic, endure, and endure pro allowing for more fun and more safety with the push of a button

Dynamic Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA) adjusts to road condition in less than 10 milliseconds smoothing out the worst road or trail
GPS preparation option that includes the mounting cradle, bracket, and BMW Multi-Controller. The cradle comes with a single key lock cylinder so no need for an additional key

Optional LED highlight for better visibility and more distinctive look

For a technical view of the engine’s build, watch this video.

Feed Your Restless

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 17:45:54 +0000

It’s not going to be hard to “Feed your Restless” in 2013 thanks to all of the new and exciting products 2013 has to offer! The new scooters are here, the special edition HP4 is available, the 90th anniversary R1200GSA, R1200RT, and R1200R have been unveiled, the F800GT model has been updated, the new water cooled R1200 GS is complete and on its way, the 30th anniversary K1300S was introduced, plus according to BMW Motorrad there is a new bike rumored to be introduced in June 2013!

BMW Motorrad rolled out a national television advertising campaign called “Feed Your Restless” on March 1. The creative concept is intended to appeal to the heart and soul of motorcyclists and fuel their restlessness to ride.

Each of the 3 commercials feature a specific BMW model segment. The first ad titled “Boots” spotlights the S 1000 RR, K 1300 S, and R 1200 R sportbikes. A group of friends go out for an overnight ride, land at a roadside motel which is the point the commercial begins: the riders are awakened by an alarm clock and all rush to get ready and back on the road.

The second ad, “Cowboy Coffee” highlights the BMW R 1200 GS, F 600 GS, and R 1200 GSA enduro bikes on a dual sport ride. There is a mix of on and off-road riding and the commercial ends sitting around a campfire, planning the next day’s adventure.

The final ad “Lunch” features the K 1600 GT and GTL touring bikes sitting outside a diner, while inside two couples impatiently wait to get their check so they can get back on the road.

All of these ads are available on Bob’s Youtube channel or you can tune into ESPN, ESPN news, Discovery, Velocity, History, or H2 channels to see them.

FAST TRACK Licensing

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 21:59:11 +0000

If you are riding a motorcycle on the street and you do not have a Class M motorcycle license here is your opportunity to get one FAST. Some riders say they are not properly licensed because they perceive the licensing process to be inconvenient and time consuming. With FAST TRACK Licensing we have removed some of the administrative barriers to the licensing process. FAST TRACK Licensing is available for both two and three-wheeled motorcycles.

FAST TRACK Licensing is conducted from April through September at selected Motor Vehicle Administration branch offices. See the list of locations at the bottom of this page. It is facilitated by certified Motorcycle Safety Program Instructors who are also certified to administer the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) knowledge and rider skill tests.

A learner’s permit is not required and there is no 14-day waiting period. An applicant is not required to have an accompanying rider but is still expected to transport his or her motorcycle to the MVA branch legally. The MVA is not responsible for any violation obtained by an individual who fails to operate their vehicle in accordance with Maryland law.

Applicants are expected to have already read and be familiar with the Motor Vehicle Administration Motorcycle Operators Manual, publication DL-001. This manual is also available at any MVA branch office. Applicants will first participate in a Study Hall where we will review the Test Yourself questions located throughout the manual and the sample knowledge test on page 38. Applicants will also be able to ask questions about the information in the manual. After the review the knowledge test will be administered.

Applicants must answer 21 out of 25 questions correctly, or score 84%, to pass. Another feature of FAST TRACK Licensing is that if a rider fails the knowledge test he or she does not have to return the next day to retake the test. The applicant will be coached as to the correct answers for the questions missed and then a second, but different test, will be administered.

After passing the knowledge test applicants will then be administered the on-cycle Rider Skill Test. An applicant’s motorcycle must be street legal. That means it is insured, registered and tagged. The applicant must present the vehicles current registration card and if the motorcycle is not registered in the applicant’s name will have to show proof that they have permission from the registered owner to use the motorcycle. The Examiner will inspect an applicant’s motorcycle to be sure that all the lights work and that there are no obvious equipment violations. An applicant is required to use a DOT compliant helmet and approved eye protection. If the applicant fails the riding test they will receive coaching on what they were assessed points for from the Examiner and then will be permitted to take the test again.

After passing both tests an applicant will be given a FAST TRACK Completion Certificate. This Certificate is valid only at the branch where it is issued and for that day only. The applicant will present this certificate to an MVA licensing agent to get the Class M license added to his or her current license. The applicant will have to pay the appropriate fee. Applicants with a valid learner’s permit do not have to take the knowledge test and will not have to pay a fee to get the Class M license. If an applicant fails the riding test he or she will be issued a Class M learner’s permit.

Applicants who fail the knowledge or skill test twice will be encouraged to participate in a formal rider training course and will not be allowed to participate in another FAST TRACK event in 2012.

FAST TRACK Licensing is conducted by appointment only at the following MVA branch offices during regular business hours and is available only to Maryland licensed drivers over the age of 18. For 2012 we will be accepting requests for appointments online only. To view the flyer for the event and to make an appointment online click on the link of the location you want to attend. There is a link on the flyer to make an appointment.

When you click on the link in the flyer an email will open. Enter the required customer information below and click “Send”. If you completed the process properly you will receive an auto-response from the Program confirming your appointment.

The schedule will be posted by the beginning of March 2013.

Walk-ins will be accepted as space permits. However, although every effort will be made to accommodate walk-ins, individuals without an appointment will not be guaranteed participation.

If you cannot make your scheduled appointment please contact the Program by email at motorcyclesafety@mva.maryland.gov and put FAST TRACK Cancel In the Subject line, or by calling us at 443.572.8236 to cancel. Individuals who do not show up for their scheduled appointment may not be allowed to participate in another FAST TRACK Licensing event this year.

By requesting an appointment you acknowledge that you have read and understand the information on this page concerning the FAST TRACK Licensing process.

FAST TRACK Licensing is NOT a substitute for rider training and all participants are encouraged to enroll in a Basic Rider Course 2 after getting their license to update and refresh their riding skills. Applicants who cannot pass either the knowledge or the riding skills tests on the second attempt will be counseled to consider enrolling in a Basic Rider Course or an Alternate Basic Rider Course and will not be permitted to participate in another event during the current calendar year. Both courses will allow a rider to practice street riding skills and if they pass they will be issued a Motorcycle Safety Program Completion Certificate for the Class M license.

* The riding test is designed to accommodate the traditional two-wheeled motorcycle trike conversion with two wheels in the rear and some of the newer factory trikes with two wheels in the rear, or front. However, it may not accommodate some three-wheeled motorcycles that are considered automotive conversions, or automotive hybrids. If you are not sure whether your 3-wheeler can be used in the riding skill test, please contact the Motorcycle Safety Program office before scheduling an appointment.

2013 Vintage Motorcycle Festival at America’s Car Museum Selects BMW Motorrad as Featured Marque

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 18:09:01 +0000

Iconic German motorcycle manufacturer marks 90th anniversary in 2013

TACOMA, Wash. (March 4, 2013) – The Vintage Motorcycle Festival at LeMay – America’s Car Museum (ACM) has named BMW Motorrad as featured marque for the August 24-25, 2013 motorcycle event in Tacoma, Wash. The decision to feature the Munich-based motorcycle manufacturer coincides with the 90th anniversary of BMW Motorrad.

“BMW is a motorcycle company that also builds cars. In fact, they were building motorcycles well before the cars came along,” said Bob Henig, president of Bob’s BMW in Jessup, Md. and a BMW collector who is serving as a judge at this year’s Vintage Motorcycle Festival. “BMWs have always had classic, clean styling which made for low-cost, easy maintenance, so people could really enjoy their motorcycles. The idea was that people should ride them more than they should have to shine them.”

BMW Motorrad’s first motorcycle was the R32, which debuted in September 1923. The R32 was designed by Max Friz, the first chief engineer and design director for BMW AG, and includes many features that are still used on today’s BMW motorcycles.

“That basic design – the horizontally-opposed, air-cooled engine, with a transmission coupled directly to the back of the engine, offset to the right, with a driveshaft to a beveled rear drive, is exactly the layout that you can buy today on a modern BMW,” said Peter Nettesheim, a private collector from Huntington, N.Y., who owns eight R32 bikes, including the oldest surviving one – the 22nd BMW motorcycle ever built, which still runs today.

“When I have the R32 parked on the street, the first thing people want to look at is how the different mechanical systems work: the braking system, the throttle system, and anyone who knows BMW immediately recognizes the same basic layout as today’s bikes,” said Nettesheim, who will also be a judge at the Vintage Motorcycle Festival. “The quality of the fit and finish is something people are always impressed with for a 90-year old piece of equipment. BMW paid a lot of attention 90 years ago to quality, fit and finish, just as they continue to do today.”

Like Nettesheim, Henig’s collection includes an R32. Henig’s is an unrestored 1925 R32, and he also owns a 1929 R57 and a 1943 R75 with a sidecar, among others.

“BMW’s technology has always been at the forefront of the motorcycle industry, and their quality of build is remarkable,” said Henig. “I’m looking forward to coming to the Festival and sharing the knowledge and passion that I have for BMW motorcycles.”

The Vintage Motorcycle Festival is one of the annual signature events at the 165,000 square-foot Tacoma museum. Along with the many BMWs, other motorcycles from famous makers will include Ducati, Triumph, Norton, Harley-Davidson, Indian and European marques from bygone eras.

The festival’s main event on Saturday, Aug. 24 will include judged classes and awards, a swap meet, trials motorcycle demonstrations, panel discussions and music. A scenic motorcycle ride launching from ACM’s plaza and traveling along Pacific Northwest roads is slated for Sunday.

The inaugural event in 2012 attracted more than 200 motorcycles and 2,000 enthusiasts to ACM’s Haub Family Field. Best of Show was a 1963 Norton Atlas owned by Ron Rumbolz of Fife, Wash., which is now on display at the museum.

About America’s Car Museum
State Farm Presents LeMay – America’s Car Museum, which opened June 2, 2012 in downtown Tacoma, Wash., explores how the automobile has fulfilled a distinctive role at the core of the American experience and shaped our society. The spacious Museum with rotating exhibits is designed to be the centerpiece for automotive history as well as an educational center and library. The campus, located adjacent to the Tacoma Dome, contains a 3.5-acre show field, theatre, café, banquet hall and meeting facilities. For more information on museum hours, becoming an ACM member, volunteer opportunities or to make a donation, visit .

Welcome Invasion: British Motorcycles in America, 1940-1980

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 19:55:34 +0000

Hershey, PA (February 27, 2013) The Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) Museum is proud to announce the exhibit, “Welcome Invasion: British Motorcycles in America, 1940-1980.” The exhibit will open Friday, March 15th and run through Thursday, October 17th, 2013.

North American motorcyclists, many having learned to ride on Harley-Davidsons and Indians, eagerly took to and purchased the comparatively light-weight, fine handling and powerful English brands. Racers in particular valued the compact size, technical innovations, and excellent power output of now-classic competition motorcycles by AJS, Triumph, BSA, Matchless, Norton, and Royal Enfield. The British marques were accepted as “real” motorcycles by American riders, and even today are respected by even the most ardent proponents of American motorcycles.

The exhibit, informally called “British Invasion,” will present the British motorcycle as both aesthetic object (art) and as material culture (possessing meaning and a story). British Invasion will also interpret British motorcycles through an investigation of: 1) Technical innovations (such as Edward Turner’s parallel twin design); 2) The positive response by American buyers (why they were popular); and, 3) The eventual implosion of the British motorcycle industry in the 1970s. To assist in placing the British motorcycle within its context, period dealer signs, movie and popular music posters, and quotes by motorcycle commentators will be displayed. Additionally, visitors can examine “The Literature” table, holding examples of some of the primary literary texts addressing motorcycle studies.

A selection of the show-winning motorcycles on display in the British Invasion are: 1948 Triumph Speed Twin with sidecar; 1956 Ariel Square Four; a hand-built 1970 Cheyney-BSA off-road racer; a very rare 1955 T100R factory racer; a bevy of pristine 1960s Triumph twins; and the signature British performance bikes of the 1970s, to include a 1971 BSA B50MX, 1974 Norton Commando, 1974 Triumph Trident, and a custom 1974 Triumph/BSA Hurricane street-drag creation. Supporting the exhibit will be period motorcycle gear and collectables.

Please join the AACA Museum in enjoying an exhibit of some of the most beautiful motorcycles in America, in one of America’s premier motor museums! Museum patrons can also enjoy the museum’s newest display Porsche Style & Design which showcases more than 20 air and water cooled models as well as prototypes. There are also other household and personal items also designed Porsche that are in display as part of this Porsche Style & Design exhibit.

The Antique Automobile Club of America Museum, a member of the Smithsonian Institution Affiliations Program, displays beautifully restored automobiles, buses and motorcycles in unique life-like scenes representing the 1900′s – 1980′s in a cross-country journey from New York to San Francisco. The AACA Museum, a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization, is celebrating 10 years as one of the nation’s largest automotive museums. Special exhibits change several times a year and focus on a variety of eras and types of vehicles. The AACA Museum is located just off Route 39, one mile west of Hersheypark Drive in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Regular admission $10, seniors age 61 and older $9, juniors age 4-12 $7, children age 3 and under are FREE. To celebrate our 10th Anniversary, Admission will be just $10 for two guests every Tuesday through 2013. The Museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and select evening hours during the summer months. For further information, please call 717-566-7100 or visit www.AACAMuseum.org.

Timonium Motorcycle Show

Fri, 08 Feb 2013 16:01:16 +0000

The show just opened and we already have a crowd at Bob’s booth! Stop by this weekend and join us.

Timonium Fairgrounds
2200 York Road
Lutherville-Timonium, MD 21093

10am – 9pm Friday & Saturday
11am – 6pm Sunday

Main Show Facility: Lower building filled with most 2013 motorcycle brands and models available from Europe, Asia and America plus hundreds of exhibitors displaying and selling everything the aftermarket industry has to offer for the two-wheel enthusiast. The show also hosts the largest custom, antique and vintage motorcycle competition show on the east coast. Show attendees can meet master bike builders and TV celebrities like Vinnie and Cody regulars on Discovery Channel’s popular 10 year run of “American Chopper”; Jim Wubben unveiling his latest tribute bike to the world on Saturday, Emilio Rivera from FX’s hot “Sons of Anarchy” series and David Uhl, the ‘Norman Rockwell’ of Harley-Davidson artists, who will bring his Colorado studio and paint live at the Timonium Bike Show feature area, and Heather Ziehl Mrs. Maryland. Check out the International Bikini Team finals, tattoo contests, live radio broadcasts, ‘Hot Cougar Hunt’, The original 1966 Batmobile and many other cool activities and events all three days. Visit cycleshow.net.

Exhibition Hall: Upper building addition to the Timonium Motorcycle Show houses the ‘Super SWAPMEET’ and the lowside Magazine Garage-Built Vintage Motorcycle Expo. Activities include workshops, seminars and hands-on machine tool technique demonstrations geared to the garage-built Café Racer, Bobber, Chopper and Drag Bike crowd. Tons of used parts and bikes on display for sale, swap or trade.

Admission for Adults: $15.00
Children 10 – 15 Years: $5.00
Under 10 are FREE with paying adult

Go to www.cycleshow.net to print out $5.00 off admission discount coupons good on adult admission. $10.00 discount tickets can be purchased in advance at any Pete’s Cycle location in Baltimore, Severna Park or Bel Air, Bob’s BMW in Columbia or Harley Davidson of Baltimore in White Marsh. Free admission Friday to anyone wearing a U.S. Military Uniform! For more information call 410-561-7323, visit www.cycleshow.net or email info@cycleshow.net.

Win a Bike and Cure the Kids!

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 23:01:44 +0000

Honda donated a CBR1000RR which Gregg DesJardins transformed into a unique machine. The finished bike was unveiled at the San Mateo IMS show, and you can purchase chances to win this cool bike at Bob’s BMW through April 30.

Tickets will be available at the Ride for Kids booth directly next to the Bob’s BMW space in the main building at the Timonium Show. Raffle tickets are just one for $5 or five for $20. No purchase is required to win. See the Official Rules for complete details.

The drawing will be held at the headquarters of the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation (PBTF) and the Ride for Kids® in Asheville, North Carolina on Monday May 6, 2013.

Stop by Bob’s BMW or get tickets online: www.rideforkids.org

Thank You!

Mon, 21 Jan 2013 16:21:35 +0000

We are pleased to announce that Bob’s Food Drive brought in 215 lbs of food and $60 in cash donations for the Maryland Food Bank. Those of you that brought in 10+ items were entered into a drawing for a gift card.

Congratulations Jerry Larner of Ellicott City, MD! And thanks to everyone who donated to the Maryland Food Bank.

Bob’s BMW Customer Takes 1st Place in the BMW GS Trophy East Coast Qualifier

Thu, 27 Sep 2012 12:04:22 +0000

Vote for Dan!

Congratulations to customer and friend, Dan Farson of McLean, VA who took first place in the East Coast qualifying round of the 2012 BMW GS Trophy event held in Spartenburg, South Carolina September 21-23. Six finalists were chosen from the East Coast (another 6 from the West Coast) based on a series of competitions held over 3 days. The next round is scheduled for November in South America where 19 countries will compete for the 2012 GS Trophy.

In order to secure one of the spots on the USA Team finalists have been entered into an online competition through BMW Motorrad USA.

This is where Bob’s BMW and Mr. Dan Farson need our e-club members help! With 2 very simple and quick clicks of a button, you can help Dan become one of the elite GS riders representing not only the USA but Bob’s BMW! How cool is that?! Simply click HERE and vote for DAN FARSON.

Before you vote for Dan, you may be asking yourself, well who is Dan Farson? Well what makes this story even cooler is when you close your eyes and think of a GS rider, you probably envision a 30 something year old, not a man that just retired from the US Navy after 35 years of active duty!

Dan began riding off-road and enduro back in the 70’s in Southern Ohio, A.M.A District 11. He continued riding over the years, always having both a street and dirt bike or one dual sport at his disposal. His first BMW was a 1971 R75/5 that he rode from 1980-1984; he then moved onto a 1984 BMW R100RT from 1984- 2010; which he then bought a 2010 BMW F800GS from Bob’s.

Between May and September of 2010 Dan was able to get about 2,000 miles on the F800 before being sent to Tripoli, Libya to serve as the US Defense Attache. He made arrangements to ship the bike and finally it arrived to Tripoli in January 2011. Unfortunately by the time, the Libyan government was able to issue a plate, the revolution had kicked off and before he had a chance to ride it there, he and his family were evacuated, and he were forced to leave the motorcycle in Tripoli. Finally in May 2012 the bike was returned to Dan and he was able to get back on it with just enough time to reacquaint himself with the bike for the GS Trophy event!

To get more details of what Dan went through over the 3 day competition, you can visit BMW Motorrad

But most importantly we want to be sure that the #1 East Coast Finalist makes it onto the USA Team and represents in South America in November…he clearly earned his spot placing #1 among 40 something other participants! To ensure Dan proceeds to the next round please visit the below link and…

VOTE FOR DAN FARSON!!!

Making Dreams Come True

Tue, 25 Sep 2012 19:03:39 +0000

Kurt Motta of Falmouth, Massachusetts is a long time Bob’s customer of about 10-12 years who became familiar with Bob’s BMW through seeing our monthly ads in BMWMOA. After attending a few rallies and speaking to several MOA members who knew Bob personally and spoke highly of him, he began ordering parts from Bob’s such as clutch cables, brake switches, replacement horns, and other “parts to keep a 30 year old bike up and running.”

A view of the sidecar

In 1999 Kurt and his wife journeyed to the BMWMOA national rally in Rhinebeck and “between all the heat before and during the rally, sleeping on the ground for 4 days and a 5 hour ride led my wife to announce she could not do it anymore.” It was at this point Kurt began researching sidecars. New to the sidecar world, Kurt decided to start with a Velorex 700s and attached it to his R75/6.

Some years later, retirement began to approach. Kurt was not going to be able to retire as planned, but he and his wife both agreed he deserved his retirement present. And what better gift than a motorcycle?! Originally Kurt always saw himself on an R1200RT but decided after 36
years of riding nothing but twins “if you are going to make a change it might as well be a big one,” so he decided the K1600 was in the running. The K1600 quickly fell out of the running when Kurt discovered the reverse had been removed. So the answer was a K1200LT combined with either a Hannigan Astro 2+2 or the GTL sidecar.

Kurt set up his first R75/6 sidecar rig himself, working closely with the shop he purchased the rig from. For his current project, Kurt reached back out to the shop that guided him through the R75/6 sidecar set up as well as Bob’s BMW. Based on Bob’s BMW reputation and the fact that we had access to all the resources needed to put his rig together such as a tug to attach the sidecar, Kurt chose to move forward with Bob’s.

Salesman, Carter Melbourne promptly responded in assisting Kurt in the purchase of a low mileage 2009 K1200LT. As soon as the paperwork on the 2009 K1200LT was complete, Carter turned Kurt over to Bob’s Service Manager, Chris Buell, to begin the next phase of the project: converting this luxury touring motorcycle to an even more luxurious motorcycle…a sidecar rig!

Kurt chose the GTL sidecar and after patiently waiting close to 2 months for Hannigan to build and deliver the sidecar (these units are built to order so average time is around 2months; which is a prime reason why these projects are best initiated during the winter months!), it arrived and Master Technician Brett Ricketts immediately dove into the project and had it ready for transport to Kurt in TWO days! On average complete installs take Bob’s Service Department one-two weeks but with it being riding season, we pushed hard to get the bike in the customer’s hands as soon as possible. Projects like these do not happen over-night folks, in fact average time on a sidecar conversion is approximately 3 months between the build of the rig and installation. Kurt states, “a long process to be sure but a very rewarding one.”

2009 K1200LT & Sidecar

Upon completion of the bike, delivery arrangements were immediately made and the sidecar rig safely arrived in Massachusetts, was unloaded, and within 20 short minutes Kurt and his wife had mounted the bike for a short ride just before having to get to work. Since delivery earlier this month, Kurt has put 1,300 great miles on it! Kurt sums up the experience of purchasing a bike hundreds of miles from home best, stating, “Anyone who thinks a project like this can be pulled off without a hiccup or two is delusional. It is the reaction to those hiccups that counts and Bob’s employees reacted well!”

Living hundreds of miles away, Kurt had never ridden the 2009 K1200LT, let alone sat on it. After putting some miles on the bike, Kurt contacted Bob’s with a couple concerns. The highway peg and passenger peg could not be deployed because of the sidecar. The highway peg is not a stock part on the K1200LT, it is an added accessory by the original owner, plus Kurt acknowledged the fact that “your feet belong on the pegs by the controls” so really this was a non-issue. As for the passenger peg, Bob suggested either removing it altogether, replacing it with a smaller peg, or to keep it as is in the closed position. Kurt decided “if there is ever a passenger sitting behind me it is going to be an emergency situation that will over rule the safety issues involved in a pillion passenger on a sidecar rig,” so again really a non-issue and keep it as is. The real issues were two: having not sat on the bike prior to purchase, he soon realized the seat was not best suited for his 34 inch inseam. Bob’s always recommends test rides to our customers to ensure the bike suits your build. Unfortunately being hundreds of miles away, Kurt was unable to test ride the bike. Luckily now that the bike is in his possession, he can take it to a local business to have a seat custom fabricated to meet his specific needs. Finally the chin spoiler in the front of the sidecar measures about 4-3/4 inches from the ground making some driveways a bit of a challenge. This is how Hannigan builds this particular rig so although we cannot adjust it we certainly passed the feedback along to Hannigan to consider in future builds. We are happy Kurt identified this early on so he is conscientious of the low end when entering and exiting driveways. And thanks to Kurt, we can mention this to our future customers to take into consideration when looking at the GTL sidecar.

We look forward to the day Kurt and his wife decide to put more miles on the sidecar rig and ride it down to Bob’s BMW to meet the team that helped make their dreams come true!

Fun in the Sidecar!

Installations, conversions, restorations, and other similar projects take time. Kurt’s story is a prime example that whether you are near or far from Jessup, MD, does not matter. In fact Kurt has never even been to Bob’s! What matters is that the team you work with is responsive and stays in close communication with you along the way like Bob’s team did.

It is also important to recognize the time these projects take. Although Bob’s part of the process may be able to be knocked out in a couple weeks, there is build time, delivery/transport, and just those good old fashion surprises that always seem to show their ugly heads, that need to be taken in consideration. This is why Bob’s encourages projects to be scheduled over the winter months, so that you don’t find your bike on a lift on a sunny 70 degree day!

Kurt’s sidecar conversion turned out beautifully and Bob’s thanks Kurt for the opportunity to take part in the build of such a head-turning piece of machinery!

See more images of the K1200LT sidecar rig

Jeremy Wins the 2012 Atlantic Region Unlimited Supersport Championship!

Wed, 19 Sep 2012 21:25:26 +0000

The CCS racing season is coming to an end and points are being tallied. Bob’s BMW could not be any more proud to report that our sponsored racer, Jeremy Cook not only won the 2012 Atlantic Region Unlimited Supersport Championship, he also got third place podium finishes in the other three classes he races: Unlimited Superbike, Unlimited Grand Prix (GP), and Unlimited GTO (25 min. races)! Overall in the Atlantic Region among all 264 racers (all classes, any bike size), he finished in the Top 10…#7!

Jeremy Cook

This is Jeremy’s first year racing expert and only his second year of competitive road-racing! He races a 2009 BMW S1000RR body with a 2012 engine supersport/superstock built by Larry Pegram. The Atlantic region covers all of the tracks from Loudon, New Hampshire to Roebling Road, Georgia. He was unable to attend the New Hampshire event due to a conflict in schedule and still managed to finish on the podium in all four classes he races!

Results for the Mid-Atlantic Region are not yet in but are being tallied in full now that this past weekend’s race at Virginia International Raceway is complete.

Summit Point Race Track in West Virginia is Jeremy’s home turf and they personally track results. At Summit Point Track, Jeremy won the Overall Supersport, and placed 2nd in Overall Unlimited Superbike Summit Point Track Championship, 3rd place in Overall Unlimited GTO, and 4th in Overall Unlimited Grand Prix!

Jeremy was a radio guest on sidestandup.com on September 11 where he reported the highlights of his season and plans for next year. You can download this 5 minute interview HERE (to hear Jeremy, fast forward to 52 minutes, 20 seconds).

Pictures from the 2012 season are available on Bob’s facebook fan page. There are no more “home” races this year, but next year Bob’s encourages you to join us at a Summit Point Race Track for fun-filled days at the track to help us cheer on our sponsored racer who is well on his way to the big league!

Motorcycle Cannonball Endurance Run

Wed, 19 Sep 2012 20:21:27 +0000

In 2010, a tradition as old as most of the motorcycles involved was revived. Riders traveling on motorcycles built before 1916 traveled from coast to coast of the United States of America, starting in New York and ending in San Francisco. Two years later, in 2012, another run was organized, only this time for motorcycles pre-1930 which allowed BMW’s to enter the race!. These “Cannonball Endurance Runs” were inspired by E.G. Baker, also known as “Cannonball.”

Cannonball Route

Baker worked as the Superintendent of a motorcycling tire testing department in the early 1900’s. At this job, Baker completed fast, long distance rides and was able to do so without experiencing fatigue like most others who were unable to keep up with his pace.

In 1912, he completed his first endurance ride on a 2-speed Indian traveling 14,000 miles in three months from Florida to Cuba, to Jamaica, and then to Panama. After finishing this ride, Baker decided it was time to attempt to break the transcontinental record. In 1913 he rode a 7 hp, 2-speed electric model twin Indian. He covered 3,378 miles in 11 days, 12 hours, and 10 minutes earning him the nickname “Cannonball.” According to reports, “Cannonball” Baker completed 140 timed long distance rides; 126 which were coast to coast.

Which brings us back to 2010 when a group of motorcycle enthusiasts decided it was time to invite all makes and models of motorcycles built before 1916 to gather and partake in an “epic adventure of man and machine.” Riders averaged 300 miles a day and traveled with crews on routes through national parks, along great lakes, rivers, mountain ranges, and more. This was an endurance run where one rider and one machine would claim victory. Unfortunately for BMW enthusiasts, the race was not open to BMW’s as the first BMW was not built until 1923.

However two years later in 2012 the Cannonball Endurance Run returned, only this time for makes and models pre 1930! And you know what that means? This year BMW joined the race! Collector Jack Wells entered a 1929 BMW R11 that is being ridden by Norm Nelson, #23. Joseph Gimpel, #62 is riding a 1928 R62, and Darryl Richman, #52 is riding a 1928 R52.

Team 23 is made up of 9 individuals: Norm Nelson, Rider and Wrench; Jack Wells, Entry Owner and Support Vehicle Pilot; Bill Robinson, Team Manager; Larry Meeker, Road manager; Alan Singer, Web master; Chris Alley, Chief Tech; Bill Botkin, tech; Ed Miller, technical Advisor; and John Duss, Legal Advisor. You can read ride reports from the road by visiting http://cannonball23.home.comcast.net/~cannonball23/

Team 62 is made up of 3 individuals: Rider, Joe Gimpel, and his long time friend and another handy person that Joe has known and worked with. More details on this team are available at http://www.motorcyclecannonball.com/index.php?option=com_sobipro&pid=55&sid=130:62-Joseph-Gimpel&Itemid=109

Team 52, also known as Team Boxer Rebellion has dozens of sponsors and support. A full list is available at http://darryl.crafty-fox.com/ and/or you can get ride reports and details on this team.

On September 7, 2012 70 total riders on Harley Davidson’s, BSA’s, Triumphs, Henderson’s, Indians, BMW’s, Rudge’s, and a Velocette, Invinvcible JAP, and Sunbeam started a 2-week journey coast to coast across the United States riding motorcycles built before 1930. The ride started in New York and will end in San Francisco. Most days are 300 miles or less, with shorter distances on the start and finish days. It is a scenic route, avoiding interstate highways, with stopping points at museums and hosted lunch stops.

As of September 18, Team 23 was in 5th place, Team 62 is in 32nd, and Team 52 is in 41st, among 70 total riders. The race ended September 23 and final results are now posted http://www.motorcyclecannonball.com/

Bob’s BMW salutes the BMW teams for their determination and enthusiasm. Traveling coast to coast on vintage and classic bikes is sure to be a challenge but we know if any brand can do it, it’s BMW! Perhaps next year, a Bob’s BMW ambassador can represent on one of Bob’s personal machines in his museum, or even better, maybe Bob himself will join the next Cannonball Endurance Race!

Greetings E-club Members!

Wed, 19 Sep 2012 19:49:32 +0000

We hope September has treated you well. Overall it has been perfect riding weather: clear skies, cool temperatures, with a light breeze. Some showers and tornado watches here and there but for the most part a great riding month!

Oktberfest at Bob’s!

Bob and Suzanne returned from The Kings and Castles Tour with many exciting stories and photographs that will be featured in next month’s newsletter. While the bosses were away, we had some fun at the store offering prices so low on apparel we had to wait till Bob was out of the country to advertise! Hopefully you were able to come by and check it out. We also hosted a BONUS 2 topic tech session this month that was a great success. Both topics were suggested by customers…thanks again for your input!

Coming up this weekend is our Annual Oktoberfest, Swap Meet, and Fall Open House. We will have vendor reps here to speak with you directly about the newest products. The Blue Knights will be serving authentic German Food from 10-3 plus delicious apple cider to get us all in the autumn spirit.

As done in the past, we are offering spaces on the lot for anyone interested in selling apparel, parts, and other STUFF including motorcycles! If you want to get rid of things that have been sitting around, taking up space, September 29 is the day to do it and there is still time to sign up. Last year a Triumph motorcycle sold by noon! Contact hanna.creekmore@bobsbmw.com in advance to reserve a spot and get complete details.

Also just around the corner is Bob’s official 30 Year Anniversary Celebration! Tickets for the November 3 event will go on sale October 1. Tickets are limited and expected to go quickly so don’t delay. Details of the event are available on the events page of the website.

If you have been debating a bike purchase this year, all 2012 in-stock models come with a manufacturer discount up to $1,200 now thru October 31 so NOW is the time to upgrade! Complete details are on the web or you can speak to any of our sales team for details.

Enjoy the delightful autumn riding weather and be sure to stop in next time you are out for a ride.

Ride Safe,

The Team at Bob’s

One Day Sale Continues…Hurry Before Bob Returns!

Thu, 13 Sep 2012 20:07:07 +0000

BMW R7 Wins Best-in-Class at Pebble Beach Concours

Fri, 07 Sep 2012 20:12:41 +0000

One-of-a-kind art deco concept from 1930s honored at world’s most prestigious concours d’elegance

The BMW R7 motorcycle won best-in-class in the Motorcycle class at the 2012 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. The award was received by Karl Baumer, Head of BMW Group Classic.

“The BMW R7 is one of the most extraordinary motorcycles in our collection,” noted Baumer upon receiving the award. “We are delighted that the effort to bring the BMW R7 to the Pebble Beach Concours was rewarded with Best in Class for Motorcycles.”

The 2012 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance featured motorcycles from Germany. On the cusp of its 90th year of motorcycle production it was only natural that BMW would feature prominently.
The BMW R7 motorcycle was created in 1934 at the height of the art deco movement which heavily influenced its design. It was created as a concept but never put into production making this R7 the only one of its kind in the world. It had not been seen for nearly 70 years when it was discovered in 2005 whereupon it was painstakingly restored by BMW Group Classic. It is now a part of BMW Group Classic’s extensive collection of significant BMW cars and motorcycles.

BMW Group In America
BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, a strategic design consultancy in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW Group’s global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all X5 and X3 Sports Activity Vehicles and X6 Sports Activity Coupes. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 338 BMW passenger car and BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 139 BMW motorcycle retailers, 114 MINI passenger car dealers, and 32 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group’s sales headquarters for North America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

Information about BMW Group products is available to consumers via the Internet at: www.bmwgroupna.com.

Looking for Places to Ride?

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 13:53:27 +0000

MD Tourism Maps

If you’re ever looking for somewhere to ride, look no further! Stop by Bob’s and ask for the most recently updated (and free!) Maryland Scenic Byways map. The map was just released this month and offers 18 different scenic byways and unique destinations across the state of Maryland…that means 18 weekend adventures! Some of the routes lead to historic places like Harriet Tubman’s Underground railroad, or the escape route of John Wilkes booth; other routes take you along mountain trails, rivers, thick forests, green countryside, horse farms, and more. And best of all, along the way, you can stop to enjoy old small town main streets, shops, and local eateries.

Bob was invited to last week’s event in Ellicott City to share with guests how useful maps like this one are to motorcyclists. Every year Bob’s go through cases of similar maps, handing them out to visitors from out of state that without them would never have the chance to enjoy the scenic roads of Maryland. Even Bob’s regular, local customer’s take advantage of the maps that provide a pre-defined route leading to great destinations.

The maps are here and available to all…ask for the newest scenic byway map next time you are in, pick a route and enjoy a day of riding!

Pictures taken day of the map’s release

Bloomingdale’s Chooses BMW as the Perfect Fashion Accessory!

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 00:21:38 +0000

Bob’s F800R at Bloomingdales.

Tuesday, August 14 select dealers nationwide, including Bob’s BMW, rolled BMW’s on the showroom floor of Bloomingdale’s. Bob personally delivered an F800R to the Bloomingdale’s in Chevy Chase, MD. Bloomingdale’s decided a BMW motorcycle is the perfect accessory to show off its 2012 Men’s Fall Fashion; after all the BMW roundel is known for its quality, design, and performance—very similar to Bloomingdale’s brand image.

The men’s fall fashion catalog has been released in which the motorcycle is featured. Plus, Bloomingdale’s is running a sweepstakes now thru September 16 giving away two R1200R Classics, one of the hardest models in the country to get today. And our very good friend Chris “Teach” McNeil will perform on 3rd avenue in front of the New York Bloomingdale’s to help kick off the infamous fashion week!

Bob’s addition to Bloomingdale’s sweepstakes…if you find yourself at the Chevy Chase Bloomingdale’s, have some fun and snap a picture in front of the bike, EMAIL it to us, and if your picture is chosen by the staff as the most creative, win a Bob’s hoodie…the perfect prize for the cooler weather around the corner!

Ride for a Great Cause—Ride for Kids®

Tue, 21 Aug 2012 02:32:14 +0000

Bob and Paige.

Every year Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation® (PBTF) hosts events around the country in an effort to raise money and raise hope for children and families affected by this deadly disease. This year’s Ride for Kids® comes to the Baltimore/Washington area on September 23 and Bob’s BMW is extending a personal invite to come on out and help us set fundraising records!

Hundreds of motorcyclists on all brands gather for a police escorted ride, in which “local stars” (local children the foundation has helped) get to enjoy a VIP ride along. As a rider, the more money you raise the more premiums like cool hats, shirts, backpacks, and jackets, you will receive! (minimum of $35 ride entry fee).

Bob receiving award for past fundraising efforts.

For the past 18 years, Bob’s BMW has made it a top priority to support the cause and the annual Ride for Kids® event. Bob helps lead hundreds of motorcyclists in his 1994 Duetto sidecar, along with a “local star” named Paige who is a pediatric brain tumor survivor that has ridden with Bob for the past 4 years. Bob has participated in many fundraising initiatives throughout the years, but holds this one very near and dear to his heart. What Bob and so many others admire about this particular cause is the money you raise goes where it claims to go; and in this case, that is towards research and family support for those affected by pediatric brain tumors.

Last year, typical of most years, Bob attended three other Ride for Kids® events nationwide. This year in preparation of the 30 year anniversary Kings and Castles Tour scheduled in September, he was unable to attend other rides, however pushed hard all year long looking for ways and opportunities to raise money specifically for the Baltimore/Washington ride!

Donations at Bob’s BMW.

A donation bin has been available all year long by coffee for any visitor interested in supporting the cause and as the date gets closer, the dealership recognizes donors of $5 or more. Your name and donation total is posted to the wall behind the counter on a special Ride for Kids Motorcycle shaped cut out. This is going on now so stop by anytime!

For those able to spare a few more dollars and/or are looking for a little more instant gratification on top of doing a good deed, Bob has select motorcycles available which ALL proceeds will go to the Ride for Kids. One of the bikes this year is a BRAND NEW (6 miles) 2010 Honda Sabre. Also included in this elite group where proceeds go to the foundation are a 1997 BMW Ural Sidecar Rig, 2009 Honda ST1300 ABS, 1985 BMW K100RS with Pichler, and a 2001 BMW R100RTP.

The day of the ride, September 23 you can meet at Bob’s bright and early and ride to Turf Valley Resort for early registration to secure a spot close to the front…no one likes to be stuck in the middle of the pack! Especially a pack with hundreds of riders!

There are many ways to get involved and we hope you take a moment to do so:

Give a donation online or donate at Bob’s next time you are here
Sign up to Volunteer
Register for the Ride
Early Registration Group Ride

August Newsletter

Tue, 21 Aug 2012 02:11:39 +0000

Greetings E-club Members,

August has been a busy month as we prepare to bid Bob and Suzanne farewell and safe travels on their 2 week motorcycle tour with a group of 14 others through Eastern Europe in celebration of our 30 year anniversary. When the cat’s away the mice will play…Stay tuned to hear about a fun and exciting promotion we have planned while the bosses are out of the country!

Thanks for the Feedback!

We received great feedback via facebook and last month’s newsletter on tech session topics. A special thanks to Yermo Lamers and Yun Lung Lang for the suspension setup suggestion; and Scott Hammond for suggesting a tutorial on connecting accessories to your CAN-bus system.

Next month’s session is scheduled for September 15 at 11 am and will be a BONUS session, covering the above 2 suggested topics: The Secrets of Suspension Tuning and “Power Block” Accessory Wiring!

GS Enthusiasts

Join GS Riders of Bob’s BMW Reminder to all of the GS riders out there…Bob’s has a dedicated facebook page for your convenience in coordinating off-road rides and adventures!

Currently a ride is being coordinated by customer, Joseph Stelmack. Tentative for October 6-7, an adventure is planned to Taskers Gap & Peters Mill Run in Virginia. Camping can be done in nearby Shenandoah/Skyline Drive or Little Fork campground. The current plan is to depart Saturday afternoon, camp, and ride on Sunday. OHV permits are required.

If you are interested in the ride, you can join GS Riders of Bob’s BMW and contact Joe directly.

Door Prize Winners Announced

Bob’s gave away a total of 50 prizes at the 2012 BMW National MOA rally back in July. Finally, all of the winners have been contacted. We mailed out the prizes to 49 (1 lucky person won an ultimate door prize package PLUS a door prize) VERY excited folks. Congratulations to…

Ann Gast

LARRY ARNOLD New Philadelphia, OH Legal Speeding Park-N-Move
JOHN ANDERSON Kansas City, MO 530 LED PIAA Light Set
MARY ELLEN BOLTON Columbus, TX Set of Kathy’s Bag Liners
JOE DAVIS Grand Junction, CO Pillion Airhawk Seat Cushion
MARY DROEGE Kansas City, MO Cruiser Airhawk Seat Cushion
ERIC DUGUIN Set of Kathy’s Bag Liners
ANN GAST Morengo, WI Olympia Airglide Jacket
JOHN GREGORY Morgantown, WV Set of VaVaVroom T-Shirts
TED KNAB Stevensville, MD Olympia Airglide Jacket
DON LITTLE Apl, AE Set of VaVaVroom T-Shirts
STEVE MARTIN Inidanapolis, IN Set of VaVaVroom T-Shirts
MIKE MAY ST. Louis, MO $500 Edelweiss Bike Travel Gift Certificate
RICK RUBENACKER Davisburg, MI Scala G9 Intercom System
JEFF SCARANGELLA Bellwood, PA Cruiser Airhawk Seat Cushion
DON SHAPTON Thompsonville, MI Legal Speeding Helmet Assisted Radar Detection
ROBERT SMITH Minneapolis, MN Set of VaVaVroom T-Shirts
RICH STOLLER Keller, TX Set of VaVaVroom T-shirts
RICH WACKERLE Hudsonville, MI Scala G9 Powerset Intercom System
EVERETT WILLIAMS Swisher, IA 530 LED PIAA Light Set

Ultimate Door Prize Winners:

Steve Martin

DAN ANDREWS FT. Meyers, FL
NIKKI ASHLAND Klemme, IA
MIKE BISHOP Bovey, MN
LEROY BRAXDALE Kerrivale, TX
DOUGLAS CHRISTIE Ferndale, MI
PATRICK DALLAS Oriental, NC
BRUCE DAVIDSON Arlington, TX
MIKE EVERLEY Lincoln, NE
ROBERT FOLKS Roberts, WI
DORIT GALBUFFALO Grove, IL
BRUCE GALLAGHER New York, NY
JOAN GEHR New Holland, PA
JOHN GILDEE Hagerstown, MD
BEAU GRANTHAM Viers, FL
ALAN HENDERSON Madison, MS
ARLENE HETZER Urbana OH Ultimate Door Prize Winner PLUS Set of Kathy’s Bag Liners
MIKE HOWIE Rochester, IL
JAMES JONES Baxter, TN
HERB KONRAD Deptford, NJ
BRET MOYE MT. Vernon, IN
KEITH MUIR Denver, CO
IAN PFEFFER Omaha, NE
MARY POHL Palm Coast, FL
SCOTT PRUE Brampton, ON
GARY TRULL Fridley, MN
JOHN VORCHAK ST. Louis, MO
LEVI WADE Midwest City, OK
BRIGITTE WAGNER Schiller Park, IL
STEVE WRAN Bargersville, TN
TELSA RUSOR Louisville, KY

See photographs of some of the winners and other rally pics!

Thanks for all of the continued support. We hope everyone has enjoyed the summer. Continue to ride safe into Autumn!

The Team at Bob’s

Kudos to Bob’s Service Department

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 19:56:48 +0000

Award Winning Service

The BMW warranty is one of the best in the industry: 3 years or 36,000 miles! Riders get this amazing warranty when purchasing a new BMW to cover certain issues that may arise. The million dollar question is what exactly is covered under this warranty? If you ever have this question, no matter where you live, near or far, there is only one place to go and that’s to Bob’s BMW! And here’s why…

This past month, as part of BMW USA’s quality assurance protocol, Bobs BMW Service department underwent and passed a warranty audit with flying colors! BMW USA reviewed every warranty claim within the past 12 months, a total of $35,000 worth of claims, and all but $198 passed according to warranty guidelines.

What this means is Bob’s Service Department knows the BMW warranty like the back of its hand. If an issue arises that you believe to be covered under your BMW warranty, Bob’s is your resource to get it taken care of hassle free!

Remembering Ride for Kids Co-Founder Dianne Traynor

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 19:26:47 +0000

Dianne Traynor

On July 20, 2012 Ride for Kids President and Co-Founder, Dianne Traynor passed away at age 67 after a long illness. Dianne Traynor helped to establish what has grown to be the world’s largest philanthropic organization, The Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, dedicated to curing the deadliest form of childhood cancer, and is a charity near and dear to Bob’s BMW and countless others.

It was because of Mrs. Traynor and her late husband, Mike Traynor’s hard work and dedication that for the past 18 years Bob’s BMW has had the gratification of actively participating to help raise hundreds of thousands of dollars to go towards research of this deadly childhood disease.

Mrs. Traynor grew up in Atlanta and attended the University of Georgia. After working as a teacher and accountant for many years and overcoming a personal struggle with breast cancer in the 80’s, she and her husband began the Ride for Kids program in 1984; a program which eventually evolved into the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation.

The accomplishments and achievements of Mrs. Traynor are countless as is the impact the Foundation has had on so many lives. A life that Mrs. Traynor and her efforts touched and one that Bob’s BMW is very familiar with is a young lady by the name of Paige. Paige is a pediatric brain tumor survivor. She joins Bob in his sidecar year after year to raise money for the foundation that helped save her life. Just last year she and Bob rode for the Baltimore/Washington area’s 20th Ride for Kids and helped to raise over $200,000.

The local ride this year is scheduled for Sunday September 23 and will certainly be a very special ride for many as we use the day to not only raise money for childhood brain tumor research but as we pay tribute to the co-founder of this amazing foundation.

Anyone interested in making a donation in Dianne’s memory can do so at www.curethekids.org

What to Expect from BMW in 2013

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 17:27:48 +0000

Get ready…here come 2013 model updates! BMW USA is beginning to reveal new colors, discontinued colors, new options and packages, and brand new models to the current lineup! Here’s an outline of what we know so far.

2013 Scooters

2013 C650 GT

The long awaited scooters are due to deliver to dealers in the fall! Anyone on the list for this incredible machine, will be included every step of its delivery from the day its put on the boat, to the day it arrives in the states, until it reaches Bob’s parking lot; which in the past, when schedules permit, customers have been on the lot while their machines are being uncrated!

2013 F700GS and F800GS

Also new to the lineup this year, is the F700GS which is replacing the infamous F650GS. The F650GS and F800GS came onto the scene back in 2007 in an effort to extend the GS family and were both responded to with tons of enthusiasm. The 650 is being replaced with the 700 and the 800 has new and improved updates. BMW stepped up for 2013 and took something already great and made it even better!

2013 F700GS
This bike is geared to the entry level, medium category rider. It is perfect for everyday use, and has more than sufficient power for off road adventures, all while still offering outstanding economy.

Features include:

Standard ABS
Optional Automatic Stability Control (ASC) and Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA)
Increased output and torque (75hp at 7,300rpm) pulled from the liquid-cooled 4 valve 2 cylinder engine with 798 cc
Electronic fuel injection
Closed loop catalytic converter
6-speed gear box
Double disc brake
Latest generation BMW Motorrad switches
Cockpit with new dial faces and extended range of information
LED rear light
Lowered suspension
Comfort package option: heated grips, etc.
Available in Red apple metallic, Ostra grey metallic, and Glacier silver metallic

2013 F800GS
Updates to this model were made to continue the GS success story. You will find what is offered in the 700, in the 800 with some slight variations. Below outlines the major differentiating technical features between the two models:

F800GS

F700GS

63kW/85hp
Progressive damping spring strut
Spoke wheels
21 inch front wheel
Aluminum handlebar
880/850 mm seat height
Weight road ready is 214 kg
Available in Kalmata metallic
Glacier Matt, Cordoba blue, and Alpine white

55kW/75hp
Conventional telescopic fork
Gas pressure spring strut
Cast wheels
19 inch front wheel
Steel handlebar
820/790mm seat height
Weight road ready is 209kg
Available in Red apple metallic, Ostra grey metallic, and silver metallic

For complete details on all of the new 2013 features and available options, contact Carter or Charlie directly. As with all upcoming models, Bob’s takes pre-orders for anyone who wants to be one of the first on the road!

2013 New Color Options

2013 BMW R1200R will be available in Montego Blue, Magnesium Beige Metallic. Red Apple Metallic and Smoke Gray will no longer be available.

2013 BMW S100RR will be available in Granite Grey Metallic. Bluefire will no longer be available.

2013 BMW K1300S will be available in Sapphire Black Metallic/Dark Graphite Metallic. Magma Red/Sapphire Black Metallic will no longer be available.

2013 BMW K1300R will be available in Racing Red/Sapphire Black Metallic and Sapphire Black Metallic/Black Satin gloss. Ostra Grey Metallic, Light Grey Metallic and Black Satin Gloss/Granite Grey Metallic Matt will no longer be available.

2013 BMW K1600GT will be available in Dark Graphite Metallic and Montego Blue. Vermillion Red Metallic no longer available.

2013 BMW K1600GTL will be available in Dark Graphite Metallic and Damask Red Metallic. Royal Blue will no longer be available.

Greetings E-club Members!

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 14:55:30 +0000

July has brought Maryland some record breaking temperatures. The month also seems to be bringing Bob’s some record breaking numbers. Our facebook fan page hit 1,000 fans this month and continues climbing! Thanks to all of our fans for supporting our page and keeping it interesting with great posts and pics!

Check out what’s been going on this month and what’s just around the corner…

40th Annual BMW MOA National Rally

The beginning of July was your typical July at Bob’s BMW…rally mode! Last year, we had the pleasure of the rally being just one state away. This year the rally was held in Missouri so we had to coordinate setup from thousands of miles away. But anyone who knows Bob knows, despite the rally’s location, Bob’s BMW doesn’t miss a national rally! Especially BMWMOA’s 40th year anniversary which was also a very special year for Bob’s BMW…celebrating our 30th year in business!

We sent our worker bees out there including Bob and they safely returned last week! A special thanks to James Abrashoff, Fred Oppido, Mike Donegan, and our many rally partners that made it a great success! A complete list of all 2012 MOA national rally door prize winners plus the 30 GRAND PRIZE winners will soon be announced.

Project bike

Monthly Tech Sessions

We switched up our last tech session and focused on the technical side of apparel. Apparel Manager, Peter Meade led the seminar sharing valuable information with the group on why we carry what we do and how it works.

Next month on August 11, Bob will lead the session, “What is a Project Bike?” We buy these project bikes and store them for the off-season but why? Next month you can hear the answer to this question plus learn the many rewards and joys these bikes bring to their owners.

BMWBMW Club

BMWBMW member Henry Winokur

Local club BMWBMW is hosting its monthly club meeting on Bob’s showroom floor on August 11. Anyone interested in getting involved with the local BMW club and having some fun should be sure to arrive by 11 for the club’s meeting. The club will be here discussing current business as well as answering any questions prospective members may have about the club: what they do, how you can sign up, the benefits of being a member, and more. After the club meeting, folks are encouraged to stick around for our August tech session, “What is a Project Bike?”

Jeremy Cook racing

Jeremy Cook’s Current Standings in the CCS Race Circuit

Bob’s sponsored S1000RR rider, Jeremy Cook is well into the 2012 season and really showing up for his first year racing in the expert pro division. We are proud to report, Jeremy has remained in the top 10 for all 29 races except for one “did not finish” (DNF) which he “did not start” to finish! Long story short, race time was changed and announced at the last minute and he was unable to get ready in time.

Jeremy races with CCS up and down the East coast representing Bob’s BMW and the BMW S1000RR. His home turf is Summit Point Race Track in West Virginia. Anyone interested in spending a day at the track can join Jeremy and his crew under the Bob’s hospitality tent at his next home race on August 25-26. We send Jeremy with a hospitality tent and complimentary beverages and snacks to accommodate fans. If you have not been, we encourage you to go and check it out. The tent offers a shaded area to rest and kick tires with fellow riders while getting an up close and personal view of the races.

Edelweiss Seminar

On July 28 Bob’s hosted an Edelweiss Bike Travel informational session led by Rainer Buck, the Managing Director of Edelweiss. Questions including how to prepare for international travel, what types of tours are available, how to choose the right tour for you, and more were answered. Attendees learned the difference between traveling hairpin turns in the Alps versus a more open road adventure through South Africa.

In addition to this information, Rainer also provided details on Bob’s upcoming anniversary trip to Eastern Europe in September; which there are still spaces available for. Anyone interested in joining Bob and Suzanne on this 15 day motorcycle adventure through Eastern Europe, can contact Bob directly.

More information on the Kings and Castle Tour is available at http://www.bobsbmw.com/road-crew/events-and-rides

The Heat is On!

Thu, 21 Jun 2012 21:53:21 +0000

Luckily, temperatures on Track Day and Sport Bike Day were not as brutal as they have been lately.

Track Day June 2012.

Track Day
Everyone rode responsibly on the track and there were no casualties luckily, other than our very own Service Advisor, Darryl, experiencing an unfortunate breakdown just one lap into the day. You can read more details on this in “Hardcore BMW Enthusiasts.” As for the rest of the group it was everything and more they signed up for, a fun, exciting, safe and controlled day on the track with a group of professionals guiding them along the way.

The idea of “Track Day” can seem intimidating but as these folks experienced, everyone is split into groups based on their personal skill level and teamed with a riding coach to teach them at the appropriate level. You have to start somewhere! See Images

Sport Bike Day
For the annual Sport Bike Day, Bob’s hosted a Sport Bike Showdown and invited riders to enter their bikes for a chance to win handmade trophies and Bob’s Bucks. Mike Schen riding a 2009 BMW HP2 Sport won first place people’s choice, and second place people’s choice was awarded to Steeve Sternberg who rode in on a 2010 BMW K1300 sidecar rig. The final trophy went to Carlos Pelaez and his 1977 Yamaha XF650 for Dealer’s Choice, Best in Show. See Images

We have also had a lot of behind-the-scenes things going on, including the launch of our new and improved website! Hopefully everyone has had a chance to check it out. Over the past few months we have been re-organizing and updating the site. Although we still have some more work to do—a couple of pages still to add, some photos to get uploaded, and fixing glitches as they present themselves—the site is up and running and we hope you are enjoying it. Those of you familiar with our online store, will notice we extended the look and feel of it onto our home site. The site itself should be self explanatory—new bike inventory is listed under new motorcycles and same for used inventory, there is a service section, convenient links to shop our online store, a new section called Road Crew where you will find all of our events, news, and pictures, as well a new Community section that is currently housing our new blog and information for clubs. This section will soon also have a dedicated page for our Adventure and Sport Bike Riders. Which will contain specific events, news, information, and specials for adventure and sport bike groups. It is an ongoing process but we are happy to say it is live and functional!

For the Lucky Few Who Travel By Motorcycle

Thu, 21 Jun 2012 21:51:01 +0000

Yermo Lamers

Yermo Lamers is a long time customer of Bob’s. He is a behind the scenes kind of guy, a software engineer, that has combined his skills and passion to create a fun and exciting motorcycling blog known as Miles-by-Motorcycle. Here Yermo documents his personal motorcycling adventures and encourages his readers—followers of all backgrounds riding all brands—to do the same!

Back in 1992, in preparation for a trip to the Arctic Circle, Yermo bought his very first BMW, a brand new 1992 Royal Blue K100RS from Bob’s. Unfortunately during this trip Yermo got sick and had to cut it short. Finally, in 2010 another opportunity presented itself and he was able to depart for what turned out to be a 15,647 mile adventure past the Arctic Circle, all the way up to Prudhoe Bay and back following a circuitous route…riding the same 1992 K100RS he purchased for the original trip 18 years ago, only now with 53,151 miles on it! And one of the coolest parts is Yermo stopped by Bob’s BMW on his way out and checked back in when he returned 77 days later! Bob’s BMW loves sharing our customer’s adventures, so we’re thrilled!

When telling people about his upcoming trip on Dalton Highway, an unpaved road often referred to as the loneliest road in the USA, friends and family insisted that he text, email, or contact them some way every day. One friend suggested he write a blog which is how Miles-by-Motorcycle began!

Yermo figured the blog would save him a lot of time, rather than individually contacting each and every person so the blog began and within 2 weeks he had an international following!

From seeing the blog’s success in such a short time, during his travels, Yermo decided upon his return, he would use the blog as the start to a full website targeting “the lucky few who travel by motorcycle.”

Yermo has never considered himself a writer but ever since the site and blog have been live to the public, he has received such great feedback and praise he has decided to take it another step and turn the blog into a book. The book is in the works and Bob’s plans on inviting Yermo to host a book signing as soon as it is done…stay tuned!

Motorcycling is meant to be fun and if anyone knows this it is BMW riders! Just like Darryl and Lex in the previous story above, Yermo rides his BMW as it’s meant to be and trusts the BMW brand. Yermo said it best when he stated, “I will ride my K100RS until it is no longer feasible to keep it running which, given it’s a BMW is likely going to be a very long time yet!”

Bob’s encourages you to check out Yermo’s blog. His stories are always interesting and he keeps the blog up-to-date! One of his latest entries was a report on Bob’s Track Day that he attended and a recent trip to Deal’s Gap. You can also LIKE his Facebook Fan Page to hear great motorcycling adventures.

Bob's BMW

Enter to Win a 2-Day Off-Road Adventure

An “Xciting” Opportunity to Improve Your Riding Skills

Corporate Suit to Motorcycle Leathers

Bob’s Safety Program

Motorcycle Safety Month

Bob’s Vintage and Classic Day

Women’s Day

Bob’s African Southern Cross Adventure

BMW Motorrad USA Introduces The 2014 F 800 GS Adventure

Wanna See Something Scary

We’re GOING THE EXTRA MILE so that you won’t.

Ride FREE in 2013!

The BEST Sport-Touring Experience For ONLY $289 Per Month!*

Worrying Free Touring

FREE BMW Navigator GPS

FREE GPS & Engine Protection Bars

FREE GPS & Engine Protection Bars

KLIM is Now Available at Bob’s

Ride to Bob’s on International Female Ride Day

Update To Vintage Museum To Be Unveiled Day of Open House

Help Wanted

Local GS Adventure Is Calling Your Name

Lee’s Arts On Display At Bob’s Open House

Bob’s Newest Toy

Shop All Weekend Tax FREE!

NO TAX on purchases in-store or shipped within Maryland April 12th thru April 15th.*

Ride in Security like never before…with B.O.S.S.

New Water-Cooled BMW R1200RT Spied Testing

Timonium Show Winners Announced

What’s Happening at Bob’s?

A Superior Helmet Choice

Where in the World is Bob?

Feed Your Restless

FAST TRACK Licensing

2013 Vintage Motorcycle Festival at America’s Car Museum Selects BMW Motorrad as Featured Marque

Welcome Invasion: British Motorcycles in America, 1940-1980

Timonium Motorcycle Show

Win a Bike and Cure the Kids!

Thank You!

Bob’s BMW Customer Takes 1st Place in the BMW GS Trophy East Coast Qualifier

Making Dreams Come True

Jeremy Wins the 2012 Atlantic Region Unlimited Supersport Championship!

Motorcycle Cannonball Endurance Run

Greetings E-club Members!

One Day Sale Continues…Hurry Before Bob Returns!

BMW R7 Wins Best-in-Class at Pebble Beach Concours

Looking for Places to Ride?

Bloomingdale’s Chooses BMW as the Perfect Fashion Accessory!

Ride for a Great Cause—Ride for Kids®

August Newsletter

Kudos to Bob’s Service Department

Remembering Ride for Kids Co-Founder Dianne Traynor

What to Expect from BMW in 2013

Greetings E-club Members!

The Heat is On!

For the Lucky Few Who Travel By Motorcycle

FREE BMW
Navigator GPS

FREE GPS &
Engine Protection Bars

FREE GPS &
Engine Protection Bars