In front of the Husqvarna Race Truck by the Husqvarna Track, the Italian brand also presented its new models for 2012.Guests from all over the worldThe motorcycling visitors were as diverse as the event program. They came from such countries as Norway, Russia, Portugal, the UK, Ireland and even the USA. There were especially large numbers from Italy and France. It is safe to assume that the 19 bikers from Malaysia had undertaken the longest journey to get there. They had their bikes shipped to Istanbul and then travelled on to Garmisch by land.The 37-year-old Czech Igor Brezovar attracted particular attention: he has been travelling on his R 1100 GS for three years. During this period he has been through 123 countries in six continents, covered over 230,000 kilometres and experienced a number of adventures. Igor Brezovar says of his motorcycle: "Apart from a few routine repairs I have always been able to rely on my GS. Even though it weighs in at up to 500 kilos when fully loaded!"A very different attraction was Wenzel Ellenrieder, a Bavarian original from the Allgäu. He and his blue and white BMW with the "Lederhose" look complete with integrated "Weißwurst" cooker on the boxer engine were a popular snapshot motif.Motorcycle tours against a magnificent Alpine backdropA brief shower provided refreshment right on time for the start of the grand motorcycle convoy at 2 pm on the Saturday. But this in no way deterred the numerous weatherproof bikers from undertaking a 94 kilometre round trip from Garmisch via Ehrwald, Reutte, Lake Plansee and Linderhof. When the convoy arrived back in Garmisch two hours later, participants said how impressed they were by the mountain landscape along the route.The many tour riders from Germany and abroad were likewise impressed with the half-day tours and panorama tour, led by experienced guides, which gave them the opportunity to experience the beauty of the Alpine region as they rode through the Werdenfelser Land.The Classic Convoy, originally planned for Friday, was shifted to Sunday due to the weather. Nonetheless, this event still boasted exquisite treasures from almost nine decades of BMW Motorrad history.In addition to the BMW Motorrad and Husqvarna Motorcycles attractions, 80 exhibitors were represented on site, providing information on tuning, accessories, lifestyle products and clothing.There were information stands featuring numerous organisers of motorcycle trips all over the world, as well as some excellent talks in the US Lodge for those who needed yet more travel inspiration. It was here that Michael Martin swept his audience away to the deserts of the earth, for example. With over 80 trips to the most remote regions of the earth, his GS has always been a faithful companion.Stars and celebrities in the fleshFans of road racing could not have been happier. In addition to the racing version of the BMW S 1000 RR, top World Superbike Championship riders Troy Corser, James Toseland and Ayrton Badovini appeared in person, along with superstock riders Sylvain Barrier and Lorenzo Zanetti. On their race-free weekend they gave autographs and signed helmets, T-shirts and caps.And other motorcycle-loving celebrities made their way to Garmisch, too: actor Hannes Jaenneke, and ski jumper Sven Hannawald with his partner, presenter and ex-playmate Alena Gerber – who herself arrived on a BMW S 1000 RR. Other guest stars were choreographer and dancer Alexandra Martens as well as top model Marcus Schenkenberg.Pure action and wild stuntsAcrobatics on two wheels but without engine power were performed by Igor Obu and his two partners Dominik Raab and Andreas Schuster in the Freestyle Area. They displayed incredible jumps and balancing acts on BMW mountain bikes. It was the third time that 37-year-old Obu appeared in Garmisch. His tricks left the audience in awe and were the perfect introduction for world stunt-riding champion Chris Pfeiffer.On his BMW F 800 R, Chris is not just a regular program feature at the BMW Motorrad Days but also one of the great crowd-pullers. Free-hand wheelies, pirouettes and front-wheel balancing acts went together to provide a truly fascinating show, rounded off with a somersault over the handlebars.Nightlife at the foot of Hausberg.The BMW Motorrad Days has long become legendary for its parties. The same was true this year, in spite of the cool weather. While "Gerry & Gary", "Moorat" and top DJs got things moving on Friday, "Blechblosn" and "The BossHoss" rocked the tent and its approximately 300 guests on the Saturday evening.For those who preferred gentler tones there was guitar music from Byron at the camp fire. And finally "Tommy and the Moondogs" played live in the US Lodge into the wee small hours.Masterful logistical achievementThanks to the perfect organisation, the entire event went off without a hitch. The catering provided was excellent. In addition to Bavarian specialities, over 12,000 litres of alcohol-free drinks and over 27,000 litres of beer were consumed this year.It was a peaceful motorcycle festival without any significant incidents. Visitors, organisers, exhibitors and the police gave a positive final verdict. All that remained were many happy faces, great memories – and lots of people looking forward to the next edition of the biggest BMW Motorrad and Husqvarna Motorcycles meeting in the world.
