Cool running

One of true freedoms of motorcycling is travelling long distances to new
destinations. However, riding a motorcycle for extended periods during late
spring and summer, especially in countries like Spain and Portugal, mean that
it can sometimes become uncomfortably hot. Fighting virtual gridlock in
Barcelona or Lisbon is no fun if the rider is overdressed. What adventurous
motorcyclists really need is specialised protective clothing that also offers
cool running at urban speeds during a summer heat wave. And, in the modern era
of advanced fabrics and textiles, why not?

One of the few solutions to rider overheating can be found in the highly
protective, high technology 2005 Rider Equipment collection by BMW Motorrad.
The Munich company's AirFlow 3, two-piece riding combination has been
especially designed for the hottest British summers and the most scorching
Continental sunshine. When temperatures are soaring, and despite high levels
of functionality and safety, the suit's innovative Air Tex fabric still manages
to create a pleasant cooling effect.

Constructed from extremely tear-resistant Dynatec, in BMW Motorrad C.A.R.E.
quality, the suit also features new Dynatec Stretch for maximum freedom of
movement. This is emphasised by the stepless waist adjustment of the
trousers. Impact protection is provided by removable CE protectors at the
knees, elbows, shoulder, back and hips. The jacket has pre-formed sleeves and
can be zipped to the trousers.

If the weather becomes inhospitable, the AirFlow 3 suit can be supplemented by
the addition of a RainLock two-piece oversuit (jacket £60 and trousers £45).
However, if cold is the problem then BMW's Functional Underwear, which is made
from 100% micro-functional fibre, will absorb 0.8% of its own weight in
perspiration. This means that the skin-sensitive fibre constantly draws away
moisture and makes the two-piece garment (long-sleeve vest and long johns)
indispensable for wearing under clothing that incorporates a climatic
membrane. (Traditional cotton underwear interrupts the wicking of moisture and
hinders active breathing membranes.) Fleece panels in the kidney, seat and leg
areas, and flat seams allow excellent rider comfort. Functional Underwear
retails at £27 for the long or short sleeve shirt and long underpants, and £22
for the shorts.

The AirFlow 3 suit is available as a combination - or as individual garments -
in sizes 34-46 for women and 46-66, 98-118 for men. Both garments incorporate
reflective safety panels and the jacket is finished in black and sand, and the
trousers in black, sand and stone grey. RRP of the AirFlow jacket is £255 and
the trousers retail at £200.

Ends

Customers can call BMW's information line: 0800 777 155 or visit
www.bmw-motorrad.co.uk

For further press information please contact one of the following:

Kylie Maebus / Lauren Haslehurst 08000 131 282
Conrad Parker 01344 480704