With just five months to go until BMW Motorrad Days 2008, a tremendous amount of work is taking place behind the scenes for the annual motorcycling extravaganza, which takes place in Garmisch-Partenkirchen from 4-6 July. Last year, the sun shone on more than 34,000 visitors who came to the picturesque Alpine resort to experience the world of BMW Motorrad at first hand. And what a weekend it was. This celebration of all things motorcycling had something for everyone.
A specially constructed dirt track, with ruts, berms and tabletop jumps, was the place to see some expert riders showcasing their talent, including legendary five-times World Motocross Champion Joel Smets, 'flying Finn' Simo Kirssi, German Enduro Champion Sascha Eckert and talented trials champion Andi Lettenbichler. But because BMW Motorrad Days is about joining in, the 'X-track' was also open to the public to experience BMW's enduro range in the perfect environment.
On tarmac, the world's best freestyle rider Chris Pfeiffer was up to his tricks and the Freestyle Arena was packed with spectators, all eager to see Pfeiffer do the impossible on his F 800 stunt bike. Following a rubber burning display of precision on the 800cc sports middleweight, Pfeiffer also decided to entertain the crowds with the HP2 Megamoto, even riding it over a car in the arena!
A specially constructed BMW Enduro Park gave would-be off-road riders a taste of the authentic BMW enduro experience, and demand for tuition on BMW's GS range was overwhelming - as was the demand for BMW's 'test ride' facility, which was one of the most popular destinations for visitors to BMW Motorrad Days. More than 850 participants took the opportunity to try a BMW motorcycle out in the picturesque surroundings of Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
Those lucky to take part in the annual Motorcycle Parade through the neighbouring German and Austrian countryside were greeted with cheers and waves from spectators, motorists and shopkeepers - in fact, it took more than 10 minutes for the convoy of over 1,000 motorcyclists to pass by.
Those who wanted to take things easy and dream about where their next BMW motorcycle could take them were encouraged to visit the BMW cinema, where adventure travel films about motorcycle journeys to places such as China, Namibia, South America and Africa were shown. But for those who had come just to party, the evening entertainment offered something for everyone - from live Salsa music to rock and pop bands in the massive party tent, all of which had to be experienced to be believed.
For many though, the best thing about BMW Motorrad Days was the coming together of motorcyclists from all over the world to share their love of the BMW lifestyle. More than 40 nations were represented at BMW Motorrad Days, with some riders travelling from as far away as Indonesia and Australia to be part of the action.
For 2008, the organisers are advising those who are planning to travel to Garmisch-Partenkirchen to book their hotel rooms as soon as possible, especially where group or club bookings are concerned. Last year, every hotel, guesthouse and campsite within a 50-kilometre radius of Garmisch-Partenkirchen was full. With visitors expected from even more countries this year, early booking is essential so please send your requests to
bmw-motorrad@gapa.de
For more information on Garmisch-Partenkirchen and the surrounding area, please visit the excellent
http://www.gapa.de website, which is in German and English languages but has summaries in a choice of 13 languages. It also includes an online accommodation booking facility and extensive details on what to do in the area.
