BMW Motorrad Unveils London Olympic Fleet

2012 2012 Olympics: BMW Motorcycle Support Fleet

BMW Motorrad UK has unveiled the fleet of motorcycles that will be used to support key sports events during the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, including the Marathon, Cycle Road Racing and the Triathlon.

The fleet of 25 models being provided to the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympics Games (LOCOG) includes the iconic R 1200 GS adventure-sport motorcycle, the R 1200 RT Boxer-engined touring machine, and the lightweight F 650 GS parallel-twin adventure-sport motorcycle.

The fleet of BMW bikes will be used for a wide range of purposes, including providing stable filming platforms for the long distance events, as well as timing, security, servicing and operational duties. BMW Motorrad UK has well-established expertise in the field, having provided motorcycles for a huge range of specialist projects and authorities roles, including the emergency services, film companies and marathon races.

In addition, all the experienced riders will be wearing BMW Rider Equipment including new TourShell suits, System 6 Helmets and All-Round Gloves and Boots.

The R 1200 RT touring motorcycles were the obvious choice for filming roles, as they offer superb low speed handling and a very stable platform on which to house a custom rear-facing platform for the cameraman, heavy-duty batteries and a TV transmitter. All of this can be achieved without having to modify the suspension, thanks to BMW’s innovative Electronic Suspension Adjustment, which allows the settings to be changed at the touch of a button.

The R 1200 GS adventure-sports motorcycle was also selected for its superb visibility, offered to the rider and passenger, and its stability and low speed handling, making it perfect for observing the racing events right at the heart of the action. Another model from the iconic GS range, the economical and punchy F 650 GS parallel-twin, was chosen for its all-round ability and light weight, offering a motorcycle suitable for smaller riders.

Adrian Roderick (General Manager for BMW Motorrad UK) says: “We are very proud to be able to support the London 2012 Games. Following testing and evaluation events, we have worked with LOCOG to select the motorcycles from our range that are best suited to fulfil the demanding jobs that the Games will bring. The R 1200 RTs, R 1200 GSs and F 650 GSs chosen are efficient and nimble, and can operate in and around the Games without disrupting the spectacle. In short, the Games are yet another challenge to which motorcycles are the ideal solution.”

Richard George (Transport Director LOCOG) says: “From motorcycles to electric vehicles and 4x4s, the requirements of the 2012 fleet are hugely diverse. BMW and MINI have provided a variety of different motorcycles, bicycles and cars, ideal both for city driving and long distance, to travel to Olympic and Paralympics venues around the country. It was vital that our partner in this field could deliver a one-stop shop solution and meet our sustainability targets. BMW has surpassed our requirements and we are delighted to be working with them.”

BMW Motorrad’s motorcycles will be joined by a fleet of low-emission, diesel, hybrid and electric BMW vehicles and bicycles as part of the BMW Group’s role as the Official Automotive Partner to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympics Games. The motorcycles, cars and bicycles will be put to use at and moving between more than 30 venues in London and the UK.

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