Thursday, 28 July 2011

End of an Era – Last night at the Waterman

For over 20 years now I’ve been going to the Waterman on a Wednesday night for their weekly summer bike meet - last night was the last one ever…

4f (3)

From next week the owners of the Waterman are moving the night to one of their other venues a mile down the road…

Waterman MAP

Here’s what they have to say…

The Waterman has welcomed motorcyclists every Wednesday evening throughout the summer months for many years. However, owing to the large numbers arriving, we have recently had some safety concerns.

As a result and with effect from next Wednesday 3rd August, we will be moving the motorcyclists meet to a large Events Area at Hatton Country World, our visitor attraction just a mile down the road. Tonight is therefore the last gathering of motorcycles at The Waterman.

The events area at Hatton Country World has hosted many large scale events, has ample space, along with dedicated hard standing parking to accommodate all motorcyclists who will have exclusive use of the venue.

In addition to the existing catering and toilet facilities, we will also operate an outside bar and BBQ.

The venue is easy to find, simply turn left out of The Waterman and follow the brown tourist signs to Hatton Country World.

We look forward to seeing you at the Motorcyclists Events area on Wednesdays from 3 August.

Johnnie Arkwright
Hatton Estate

So there you have it. I’ll be going along next Wednesday to check out the new location – let me know if you’re going…

Thursday, 21 July 2011

Charlie T’s First Handover at Streetbike…

Well Charlie's done a far few handovers in his time, but this was his first one for us here at Streetbike…
DSCF8557

…and it was a Yamaha to boot , specifically the punchy XT125X Super Motard.

Local new rider Danial Bridge was chuffed to bits with his first ever bike and we know he’s going to love it and have loads of fun…

.

Friday, 8 July 2011

Johnny “Blade” Hall 2011 Trip to Austria & Beyond - Part 1

Every year Jonny “Blade” Hall takes a group of riders to Austria & beyond…

This year we kitted him out with a load of QR Code* loaded Streetbike stickers to plaster around his journey…

002

So far they’ve covered 1700 miles, had an “ace time” at Nürburgring…

027

done the Stelvio Pass… 

075

…and in the morning they’re off to Italy!

More as we get it !

* QR codes allow anyone with any mobile smart phone to get to our website instantly – get yourself a QR App now…

Wednesday, 6 July 2011

From 16 to 60 New Recruits and A New Look at Streetbike…

In the bike game - If you’re standing still, you’re going backwards. Ain’t that the truth. So, even in these testing times we’ve been changing a few things at Streetbike and hiring a couple of people too. As they say on “the footy”, we’re trying for “a blend of youth and experience, Brian”.

We’ve also acted on your views and made some significant changes to workshop and parts.Lighter, brighter and easier for you guys. More later, but first…

Experience - Welcome Charlie…
Welcome to Charlie
Charlie Turner (Bike Sales Executive) & Gary Marshall (Dealer Principal)

We’re totally chuffed to welcome Charlie Turner to Streetbike. I bet there’s only 6 people in the world who know him as Charlie Turner and about 3 million who know him as Charlie from Sherwood's.

Charlie has been in to bikes all his life and riding ‘em for over 40 years. He left school in the 60’s to join BSA as an apprentice.


He joined Sherwood's in 1974 and his name has been synonymous with the Birmingham dealer ever since.

Streetbike’s Gary Marshall says :
“32 years with Honda & 5 with Suzuki! You just can’t buy that experience any more. And he’s a top bloke with it. Young at heart but older than me, (always a winner), still riding every day and enjoying it. Yes - We’re absolutely chuffed to have Charlie at Streetbike. All of Charlie's old customers are very welcome here. Pop in for a chat. The coffee’s are on him… he just doesn’t know yet”
So spread the word, pop in and say hello…

Now Workshop sees the light…
New Look Workshop Reception 
Bright, Airy & Full of Light and that’s just Rachael !!!

You might have noticed some hammering, banging, sawing and head scratching going on in Parts and Workshop the last month. So what’s all that about then?

Well, a fair bit actually We’ve listened to some of your comments and made a bespoke Workshop Reception where the old Dyno room used to be. Main benefits are :
Easier drop off: You can park up your bike right outside the reception, (right next to the courtesy bikes) & come straight through the door. No more running up a bath of sweat going to the main entrance on the top car park. Check in–Pick up a courtesy bike – Then Gone…off to work with the minimum delay.
Easier pick up: Dedicated Courtesy bike parking right in front of the reception window. Park up – walk in –pay up (like that bit) – give us your courtesy bike mileage – ride home . Once again, quicker for you guys and loads less less running around.
And what a difference a bit of light makes! Since the windows have been opened up, the whole place is so much brighter. We’ve also changed the Workshop Opening hours
Amended Workshop opening hours are: 9.00am to 6.00pm Tuesday to Saturday.
THE WORKSHOP IS NOW CLOSED ON MONDAYS.
Not a cut back. Just more efficient. By working this way it means every technician is in every day instead of rotating days off: Less jobs overhanging. Better continuity. More efficient and a better service to you.

Parts have moved into the light too…
Moving Rachael & Neil to their new reception means more till points for parts. Main benefit - We can serve you quicker when its busy.

We’re also opening up more windows to brighten things up… and show up the dust so things get cleaned!

We’ve listened about stock too. We’ve got rid of stuff you said was rubbish, bought some good stuff in and we’re now starting to lay it out better so you can find it easier.

We’re also doing much more staff training to promote a “right first time” ordering mentality. This will be ongoing. Again, we aim to serve you all better.

Lighter, Brighter, Better – Enjoy…

Then Youth - Welcome Casey…
Welcome to Casey
Jake Hingley (Former Apprentice), Scott “Casey” Dyson (New Apprentice) & Neil Hingley (Workshop Manager)

OK, OK it’s not the real Casey Stoner…but doesn’t he look like him. Young Scott Dyson (Centre) is our new apprentice. Casey’s been into bikes since he could walk and a Streetbike Saturday boy for the last two years. Casey is our 4th Apprentice since we moved to Halesowen and follows on from Jake Hingley (left) who successfully completed his official Suzuki apprenticeship in June this year.

Taking on a new apprentice in these hard times is a full blooded commitment to the future. We believe in people and believe in apprenticeships. If you want good people – Grow your own.

Casey's got 3 years of hard work and spots ahead of him. We’ve picked him. He can pick his own spots. Good luck son.

So there you have it full steam ahead at Streetbike...

Finally, Make a note in your diary, Parts and Workshop will both be closed from 09:00 until 12:00 on Monday 25th July for Staff Training… 


.

Friday, 24 June 2011

First Details of the new Suzuki 2012 V-Strom 650 ABS

Time for Real Adventures…
After a great teaser campaign over the last few week’s first details are now available...

New Suzuki V-Strom650ABS

The spirit of adventure beckons you to new destinations. To new sights, sounds and sensations.
The V-Strom 650 ABS is built to get you there with more enjoyment and excitement, in greater comfort.
Performance. Handling. Styling. Redesigned throughout. Upgraded throughout.

Refined and upgraded throughout, the 2012 V-Strom 650A builds on the proven performance and versatility that have made the previous model a best seller in its class. Development has centred on improving the whole package by enhancing the styling, engine, instruments, fuel economy and rider comfort to ensure that the 2012 V-Strom 650A is the best choice for those who want to do more.

From daily use, weekend breaks or long distance touring the V-Strom 650A is engineered to get you there with more enjoyment, more excitement and in greater comfort.

Quick Overview…

• Completely new styling • New instruments with additional features • Instruments operated from handlebar
• Increased power   - Gear indicator • Improved comfort
• Increased torque   - Ambient temperature • New, lighter ABS system
• 6kg lighter   - Ice warning • Suzuki Advanced Immobiliser System
• More agile   - Average fuel consumption • Class leading tank range
• New accessories range   - Adjustable brightness

• 10% more fuel efficient
  
(over previous model)

2012-suzuki-v-strom-650-abs-20

WHAT COLOURS DOES IT COME IN…

clip_image002

clip_image004

clip_image006

Pearl Mirage White (YPA)

Metallic Fox Orange (YUK)

Glass Sparkle Black (YVB)

clip_image008

WHY SHOULD I BUY ONE…

  • Compact, slim styling featuring a vivid combination of expressive painted sections and functional black resin components accentuates the sporty profile.
  • The sporty, dynamic front fairing houses compact dual multi-reflector headlight delivering superb light distribution.
  • Stylish and functional front air intakes and side air outlets contribute to both looks and rider comfort.
  • 3-way height-adjustable windscreen, carefully shaped with extensive wind tunnel testing, efficiently reduces wind noise and rider fatigue.
  • Comfortable riding position composed with a well-shaped seat, slim 20-litre fuel tank and compactly tucked-in frame covers make the rider feel at one with the machine.
  • Functional seat, combining red-stitched leather-look sections and suede-look, slip-resistant surfaces, and topped with an embossed V-Strom logo.
  • The upswept muffler, topped with a silver cover and a buffed-finish end cap is gracing the rear end.
  • Lightweight resin luggage carrier comes with a slip-resistant rubber mat and is one piece with well-shaped, easy-to-grasp grab bars.
  • Instruments with an analogue tachometer and brightness-adjustable LCD speedometer. LCD readouts include odometer, dual trip meter, gear position, coolant and ambient temperature, average fuel consumption, fuel gauge and clock.
  • Switching between LCD readings can be done with the left handlebar switch.
  • LED indicators include a road freeze warning indicator which, together with the ambient temperature display, helps riders’ awareness of road conditions.
  • 645cm3 V-Twin engine features broad torque delivery, signature V-Twin power pulses and sporty quick-revving high rpm range power surges for a full-range riding enjoyment.
  • Efficient engine designs deliver high mileage and class-leading riding range.
  • Radiator with a more compact core, flanked by wind-directing plates shaped with holes* for enhancing cooling efficiency and allowing hot radiator air to flow out to the side air outlets and away from the rider’s legs. *Suzuki-patented design.
  • The fuel injection system uses fine-atomization 10-hole fuel injectors for high combustion efficiency.
  • The 6-speed transmission is tailored for active sporty rides with tighter 1st through 5th gear ratios, while keeping highway cruises comfortable with a tall top gear.
  • A high-speed 32-bit ECU controls Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) system, contributing to enhanced low-to-mid rpm range torque, a linear throttle response and lower emissions.
  • Twin iridium spark plugs for each cylinder heighten the spark strength and combustion efficiency, contributing to increased power, a more linear throttle response, easier engine start-up and a more stable idle.
  • Suzuki-developed and patented Throttle-body Integrated Idle Speed Control (TI-ISC) contributes to easy cold starting, stable idle and lower emissions.
  • Lightweight and rigid twin-spar aluminium-alloy frame and swing arm contribute to smooth handling performance and well-poised running at high-speeds.
  • Spring-preload-adjustable 43mm-stanchion-tube front forks and link-type rear suspension with rebound step less damping adjuster as well as a preload adjuster.
  • 19-inch front and 17-inch rear radial tires specifically designed for the V-Strom 650 ABS.
  • Front dual 310mm-disc brakes and rear 260mm-disc brake deliver smooth, controllable stopping power. Expansion-resistant high-pressure brake hose enhances the responsive brake feel.
  • Antilock Brake System (ABS)* unit features a lightweight, compact design. The ABS monitors wheel speed, and matches stopping power to available traction. *Please note that ABS is a supplemental device for brake operation, not a device for shortening stopping distance. Always remember to reduce speed sufficiently before approaching curves and corners.
  • Transponder-type Suzuki Advanced Immobilizer System (SAIS) helps prevent theft with an electronic code ID system built into the owner’s key.(excluding North American specifications)

HOW CAN I MAKE IT MY OWN…

A wide selection of Suzuki Genuine Accessories for the V-Strom 650 ABS, each developed together with the machine, are built easy to install and shaped to accentuate the bike’s purposeful, adventure tourer profile while adding convenience and function.

Choices of resin and aluminium top and side cases* include resin cases large enough for a full-face helmet (for top and left side cases) and which can be fitted without repositioning the rear turn signals (aluminium cases need repositioning of rear turn signals). The V-Strom 650 ABS chassis layout was designed from the early development stages to allow the side cases to be positioned as low and as close to the vehicle centre of gravity as possible for a rider-friendly handling quality. Also, the side case carrier can be easily detached with the quick-release screws, for riding without the side cases to look slim.

A touring windscreen with a visor for adjusting its height and angle and new knuckle covers heighten rider comfort. A new accessory bar to fit over the radiator shrouds, new under cowling and a chain guard heighten the adventure feel. Items that add to riding comfort include new, low/high seat options to lower or raise the seat height by 20mm from the normal height to suit each rider’s stature or taste, and a handlebar grip heater for comfortable clutch, throttle and brake operation in cold weather. Other accessory choices include a centre stand, an easy-to-install 12-volt accessory socket, an alarm kit and a bracket to attach a GPS navigation device on the handlebar.
*Maximum loading capacity of each case is 3kg.

These will be available soon…

WHAT’S THE TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS…

 

Engine Type :

4-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 90°V-Twin

 

Bore x Stroke :

81.0 mm x 62.6 mm (3.2 in x 2.5 in)

 

Engine Displacement :

645 cm3 (40.2 cu.in)

 

Compression Ratio :

11.2 : 1

 

Carburetion :

Fuel injection

 

Oil Capacity (overhaul) :

3.0 L (3.2 / 2.6 US / Imp qt)

 

Starter System :

Electronic ignition (Transistorized)

 

Lubrication System :

Wet sump

 

Transmission :

6-speed constant mesh

 

Primary Reduction Ratio :

2.088 (71 / 34)

 

Final Reduction Ratio :

3.133 (47 / 15)

 

Rake/Trail :

26°/ 110 mm (4.3 in)

 

Suspension :

Front : Telescopic, coil spring, oil damped

 

Rear : Link type, coil spring, oil damped

 

Brakes :

Front : Disc, twin

 

Rear : Disc

 

Tires :

Front : 110/80R19M/C 59H

 

Rear : 150/70R17M/C 69H

 

Fuel tank :

20.0 L (5.3 / 4.4 US / Imp gal)

 

Overall length :

2,290 mm (90.2 in)

 

Overall Width :

835 mm (32.9 in)

 

Overall height :

1,405 mm (55.3 in)

 

Wheelbase :

1,560 mm (61.4 in)

 

Seat height :

835 mm (32.9 in)

 

Curb mass :

214 kg (472 lbs)

 

SO WHEN CAN I BUY IT – TRY IT ?

End of August – firm dates as we get them…
Deposits can be taken immediately !

MORE STUFF…
Download the brochure here…

 

 

.

Wednesday, 25 May 2011

Celebrate 50 years of Yamaha Racing with us on Saturday 28th May...

 
- Pop in & See us…
- Fill in an official 'Celebrate 50' entry form...
- Keep an eye on your e-mail inbox to see if you are one of the lucky winners…
 
You could win a very unique anniversary YZF- R1, resplendent with its Akrapovic pipes and new paint job, lovingly crafted by top painters Altamura !

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
AND there are loads of other great prizes inc. 50 items from the new team gear collection and tickets to Silverstone for the MotoGP, not to mention the 2 pairs of passes to spend the day as a guest of Team Yamaha itself !!!
 
but there’s more…
 - Play “Roll the Dice” upstairs in Clothing & downstairs in Parts...
   - Get between 2 & 12% discount on everything you buy…
- 20 questions for 20 prizes competition live in the Main Showroom…
   - Our Yamaha goodie bag competition is live between 11am & 3pm…
- Spot give-a-ways between 11am & 3pm…
   - Listen out for which staff member has giveaways and go grab ‘em before they go…
- 25% off all stock Yamaha Clothing…
& the last of our massive Yamaha Suits Promotion are still only £350…






Tuesday, 3 May 2011

April Free Prize Draw Winners

 
FIRST PRIZE WINNER - Roland Wood
 
AUTOGLYM Motorcycle Care Kit containing the following:- Autoglym Motorcycle Cleaner 1 Litre
Autoglym Instant Bike Shine 450ml
Autoglym Motorcycle Degreaser 450ml
Autoglym Motorcycle Visor Cleaner 500ml
Autoglym Soft Stockinette Cloth
Autoglym Visor Pocket Spray 
  
 
 
 
 
SECOND PRIZE WINNER - Jacob O’Callaghan


WEISE Visor Bag
Protects your spare visorSoft inner lining
VELCRO® fastening
Adjustable belt strap 
PLUS "A Street A Track An Open Road" on DVD



RUNNERS UP - Dave Hinett, Terry Eyres & Cheryl Turner

Each win "A Street A Track An Open Road" ON DVD The Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCIA) has produced the DVD to get riders thinking about their own skills and experiences. But this is not a training video. It is a humorous, real life documentary about life on two wheels...





Congratulations  to you all...


.