Nr 1/2017 - January-February
Alessandro Sambuco, Martin de Graaff Silvio Manicardi and John Chatterton-Ross analyse the 2016 season NON SPORTING COUNCIL TOURING TO KAVALA BY MOTORCYLE
INDEX
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FIM Europe The analysis of Alessandro Sambuco, Martin de Graaff, Silvio Manicardi and John Chatterton-Ross
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European Quality Label
Non Sporting Council in Fiumicino
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The FIM CEO at the FIM Europe Advanced Course in Motorcycling Management
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Touring Activities
News
FIM EUROPE MAG
Chief Editor: Fiammetta La Guidara Photos: Dorna, Youthstream, R. Pairan, M. Zanzani FIM EUROPE Via Giulio Romano, 18 00196 - Rome Italy E-mail: fimeuropepress@gmail.com Ph. +39 06 3226746 FIM Europe MAG #1 January-February 2017 The articles published in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the official position of FIM Europe. The content of this publication is based on the best knowledge and information available at the time the articles were written. The copying of articles and photos even partially is forbidden unless permission has been requested from FIM Europe in advance and reference is made to the source (ŠFIM Europe)
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FIM Europe General Secretariat The analysis of Alessandro Sambuco Approaching to end of 2016, which has seen the 20th Anniversary of FIM Europe, we’ve asked the Secretary General Alessandro Sambuco for an analysis of General Secretariat, which has its headquarters at Rome, in Italy. Starting from the past, that is from the very beginning of his presence in FIM Europe which at the times, still
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was called UEM. «It was the year 1999, when the Secretary General of the Italian Motorcycle Federation (where I was working since 1982), Mr Vincenzo Mazzi, asked my professional support for the opening of the UEM Executive Secretariat in Rome», recalls Alessandro Sambuco.
«Together with others, we have therefore created a group of friends, offering their free time to set up what now has become the FIM Europe General Secretariat. This beginning was based mainly on volunteer work, due to the poor financial means at disposal. «The ability of Vincenzo Mazzi allowed to gather
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Above Alessandro Sambuco during an official meeting and, aside, with his wife during the FIM Europe Club event in Stockholm, last September
around him a group of people, helping him and catching any useful opportunity, even with so few resources, to launch the services for the Federations affiliated to the UEM, which were 40 at those times, as well as to organize the Continental Sporting Activities. «The flywheel had started moving». What has changed now? «After 17 years much has changed. The progressive increase of the economical means, also thanks to the good mechanism started 4
with great efforts in the first years, made possible to have now a FIM Europe General Secretariat representing a sample of efficiency, even considering its small dimension, both in terms of structures and human resources at disposal. «The pioneering phase started in 1999 has been progressively replaced by a new phase, based on the constant research to move with the times, about management techniques, human resources, organization of the offices, safety
on the workplace, as well as the best possible use of IT. «A particular attention has been addressed to the Knowledge Management, in order to preserve the heritage of knowledge, experiences and activities carried out, that must remain at disposal also of the next generations leading FIM Europe. «But to be modern, technology-friendly and professional has never prevented us to remain open and to establish “human” relationships FIM Europe Mag 1/2017
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From the left: Steve Aeschlimann, John Pineo, Ignacio Verneda, Jacqui Monteiro, Alessandro Sambuco, Shah Yahya and Ramon Carreira in a recent Meeting of the FIM CONU Secretaries General
with our stakeholders, which only the passion for this work and for motorcycling can allow. «We really love to work for riders, with riders, being riders». What about the future? «I am satisfied of how the General Secretariat in Rome has settled but, as it must be, I am constantly researching for a further development and improvement of the internal procedures, of the external communication, transparency, efficiency and effectiveness. FIM Europe Mag 1/2017
«Within the FIM Family it is emerging a possible change in the organizational structure that, probably, will foresee the integration of the CONU Administrations inside the FIM structure. «It is a process that I believe natural conceptually and addressed to the effectiveness of the whole organization. We will see how this project will go ahead and, in the meantime, we have to prepare ourselves to this eventuality, continuing what we are doing since time: a progressive harmonization of our pro-
cedures with the ones of the FIM Administration. This is already happening with the interaction and cooperation of the staff of the respective Departments. In fact, several joint meetings have already been held in Mies. «The concept of FIM Family should not be abstract, but a concrete reality from which everybody will benefit, starting from the Staff itself, the Management, the FMNs and all stakeholders of the world motorcycling activities», concludes Alessandro Sambuco. 5
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Review and highlights of 2016 European Sporting season The analysis of Martin de Graaff With the 2016 European Sporting Season just ended and the new one approaching, we have asked Martin de Graaff, FIM Europe 1st Deputy President and Chairman of the Sporting Council, to highlight the main achievements of all disciplines. «The successful 2016 season is a result of a good cooperation among all involved people and organisations», stated Martin de Graaff. «A number of 9 hard working FIM Europe commissions and volunteers are busy with regulations, calendars and running of all events. «With the help of promoters, federations, organisers and FIM Europe staff members the activities took place in many European countries. And the number of participants and events is increasing. 6
Martin de Graaff
«In Road Racing the combination of FIM Europe events with FIM races is important for the European Championship. The European Superbike and Moto2 in the CEV Repsol competition ended this year with exiting races. Moto2 will be unchanged in 2017. The Superstock 1000 European Superstock will be a class in the World Superbike program, like the European 600 Cup. During 2016 FIM Europe negotiated with the representatives of several Road Racing classes: the ICGP organisation will have a European Cup with 6 rounds on well known road race tracks. «After a successful Endurance Cup in Magny Cours a number of 3 events are in the calendar for 2017. The Hill Climb competition with 5 events will also continue in 2017 with 5 races in 4 different Countries. On the 2016 calendar the Mini Road Race European Championship was missing, due to calendar problems. However next year two events, in the Czech Republic and Italy, are on the calendar including a training camp. «This year the Board and Commission negotiated intensively with the Supermoto promoter. The calendar has been recently published. In 2016 most races took place in FIM events, next year the Supermoto events will be only on the FIM Europe calendar, except one. «Many Motocross events and one Snowcross race were in conjunction with the World Championship. These European Championship motocross classes are attractive to a huge number of participants with exiting races. «The 65/85 cc and Open events were in most of the regions very good. Among these young boys and girls there are the future World Champions. The MX Academy, supported by Youthstream, pays attention to the training and education of young riders in European Countries, but with interest to other CONUs, too. The project of KNMV, Youthstream and FIM Europe at Olympic Sport Centre of Papendal (MXGP Rookies) is an example of the complete training and education, like many Olympic federations are FIM Europe Mag 1/2017
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practising. The Academy instructors organised for the second time the “train-thetrainer” course at Riga, in Latvia. «Speedway and Grass Track are Track Races with a lot of variety on the calendar, such as Individual Speedway in Semi-Finals and Finals, Youth 85cc and 250 Speedway, Pairs Speedway, Under 21 Speedway and as from next year also under 19. «Besides this, the individual and sidecar Grass Track races are very popular: this competition uses also the semi final and final system. For the organisation of the Ice Speedway the commission is depending on the weather conditions. «Except in the Youth class the number of Trial riders is increasing every year. In 4 events in several European Countries the best riders in this difficult discipline showed their skills to become European Championship. The Women Cup, Youth Cup, Over 40 Cup and Junior Cup will be organised in the same events. «In July 2016 the Motoball European Championship was organised in Budel (The Netherlands). The duration of this Championship is one complete week with prerounds, a semi final and a final. The Russian team took revenge on the German team, which had been European Champion in 2015. «For the first time a Youth tournament took place with 3 teams. This Junior/Youth tournament will probably be on the future calendars. France is the organiser for 2018 - the French federation developed electric motoball bikes and will give a demonstration in the French round of this championship. “Besides the Enduro championship, the Enduro and Rally Commission has also a big variety of disciplines. The Enduro Championship consists of 4 events in 4 different countries. The Extreme Enduro and the Superenduro are increasing in the number of participants. «The Cross Country Cup and All terrain Rally and Bajas are on the calendar in several Countries, even in Iceland. The snowmobile Enduro Cup will be organised FIM Europe Mag 1/2017
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in Nordic Countries with the highest chance of snow. «A very fast motorsport discipline is Drag Racing: breathtaking speed at the end of a quarter mile and short times of a run are the ingredients. Riders cannot buy standard bikes for drag racing, every machine is built by the owners or technical specialists in this spectacular sport. Three races, two in Great Britain and one in Hockenheim (Germany) were on the European Championship calendar. The Street class Bike had also a race in Hungary. «In the very last race in Santa Pod (GB) at the end of the day of the finals, the riders had to make the runs for the decision who would be the champion in four classes. «Showing the beautiful heritage bikes to the public and to other users is what happens in the Vintage competitions. Putting these bikes in a museum is a matter, but riding them is the best way to show for what reason these vintage bikes were built in the past. «Vintage is a kind of motorsport which is almost endless, so many bikes all over Europe are used in competitions in several disciplines. Road Racing and endurance are the most popular in the E u r o p e a n Championship. The Commission members are constantly busy to arouse the interest of organisers and Federations to bring their vintage events into the E u r o p e a n Championships and Cups. «From Vintage to Youth classes, all riders and organisers are welcome in FIM Europe Mag 1/2017
the FIM Europe motorsport disciplines. In order to give young talented riders the possibility to take part to races, the Minimum Age Working Group has been created, consisting of specialists in the field of youth sport and two professors. The activities and results of this working group have been published in FIM Europe press releases», concluded Martin de Graaff.
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The Non Sporting Council meeting at Kavala (Greece). From the left, Stjin Rentmeesters, Silvia Monatti, Nils Freivalds, Silvio Manicardi, Jean-Pierre Moreau and Adamo Leonzio
FIM Europe Non Sporting Commissions 2016 Achievements The analysis of Silvio Manicardi The 2016 has been a fruitful year for the Non Sporting Commissions. We have asked Silvio Manicardi, FIM Europe 2nd Deputy President and Chairman of the Non Sporting Council, to recap the most important achievements. PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMISSION FIM Europe/FEMA relations «The 2016 was a very posi10
tive year regarding the FIM Europe/FEMA relationship. Some common positions on important issues have been agreed and invitation from both parties to participate to the work of respective organisations has been put in place. FEMA has been invited to the Commission meeting and FIM Europe was invited to participate to the General Assembly of FEMA. Common lobby activity has been agreed».
FIM Road Safety Award 2016 «The 2016 World award has been given to the Italian Federation, in the person of Francesca Marozza, recognising the work that in Italy has been done creating also relations with Authorities and Institutions to improve the safety for PTW users. Mrs. Marozza is also a Member of the Commission». COST invitation
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«The Commission has warmly accepted the invitation from COST (European Cooperation in Science and Technology) to participate to the programmes of the Powered Two Wheeler Group». ENVIRONMENT COMMISSION «During the General Assembly in Kavala (Greece) it has been decided to enlarge the scope of the Silvio Manicardi,..... Commission. Till now the Commission has done a very good job in improving the environmental awareness in all sport disciplines, including the publication of the “Environmental Guidelines”. This work must go on pushing FMNs to be always active in making our sport cleaner and cleaner. «But it has been recognised that it is time to look at the outside world where th e tendency to ask more and more for cleaner vehicles is accelerating. This could have an important impact on our sport. «All environmental material including Guidelines and all needed documents are downloadable from the renewed FIM Europe website».
«The new website has taken on board these suggestions. «After few months of use, the Commission will reconsider updated statistics to evaluate the performance and study eventual improvements». Magazine
MARKETING, PROMOTION AND INDUSTRY COMMISSION Website «During the Commission meetings all forms of communication used by FIM Europe have been analysed and in a further meeting at the Office of Rome some requests have been expressed. FIM Europe Mag 1/2017
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«The Magazine would deserve a bigger audience. The link to the magazine has been added on all press releases. It has also been suggested to present on each issue a profile of one Commission including a summary of activities and Members profile to make better known to all our friends who we are and what we do». TOURING COMMISSION Course for Touring Assistants This idea has been developed trough the year and the first course was
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held in Spain at the beginning of September with the first ten Assistants certified (photo aside). The Commission is now studying when and where to held the second Course”. Motorcycle Friendly Hotels «The program of Motorcycle Friendly Hotels will be fully developed in 2017 using the new functions and opportunities made available by the new FIM Europe website that has been launched in December». Limitation of PTW traffic in towns
«The Commission expressed concern about limitation in some major cities in Europe on older bikes to be used in towns. How will tourist on two wheels react if they could not enter in towns to reach the hotels because of these limitations? «I hope all this work will be appreciated by all our FMNs Family and on January 21st, during the next Non-Sporting Commission Meeting, we will procede with new idea and targets», concludes Mr Manicardi.
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FIM Europe activity in Public Affairs The analysis of John Chatterton-Ross
From Sport to Touring and Commuting, from Road Safety to the developments of new “connected” vehicle: these and more topics are dealt with in an interview with Mr John Chatterton-Ross, Director of Public Affairs at FIM and FIM Europe. 2016 has seen changes in the political scene. How do you see the future for motorcycling? «Let’s start with our sport: motorcycle competition is well managed; it is a fantastic sport for our riders and spectators. It is incredibly popular with the hundreds of thousands of spectators at our events, and the millions of people who enjoy motorcycle sport on television and via other media. We should never under estimate this positive contribution to life. - Especially for those who live in troubled parts of our world. «Our sporting interests can be affected by public policy. The EU FIM Europe Mag 1/2017
Motor Insurance Directive was not written to include motorcycle or motor sports. A decision in the European Court of Justice has changed this. - The Vnuk case». Was that about an accident at a track? «No, it had nothing at all to do with our sport. It was an accident in a farmyard where the unfortunate Mr Vnuk was knocked off a ladder and injured. In deciding the case to ensure he obtained compensation he had earlier been refused, the ECJ ruling affects our sport. We hoped this would be fixed by an amendment to European Union law planned for October 2016 - but this has been delayed. «There is no appeal against the judgment as it is a decision of the highest court in the EU. The judgment requires insurance for all vehicles and this may be impossible in racing in some coun-
tries. – Although it may work in some parts of the EU. The relationship between insurance and case law is affected by the different national legal systems. «We think the best solution is to amend the EU law to make clear that this law has nothing to do with racing. - To correct the effect of this badly worded ruling by the Court. I don’t believe the judges were thinking about racing motorcycles or racing cars when they made this judgment about an accident on a farm in Slovenia where a man fell from a ladder». Is FIM Europe engaged? «Yes, the ACU in the UK has taken the lead studying the issue and seeking a solution. Mr Christopher Hodder from the ACU met with the EU Commissioner responsible – but Commissioner Hill resigned following the BREXIT vote so we must increase our efforts with the institutions in 13
EUFIM EUFIM EUROPE INSIDE
«The "Harley" motorcycle is not actually a Harley. It is a very special and unique machine», says John Chatterton-Ross. «The engine a new and unused 1941 Canadian built engine. The rest was constructed by my friend William who is an engineer using the best parts from old Nortons and BSAs, and the rest he made himself. This is a bike I have known in its various forms since it was first constructed more than forty years ago».
Brussels. A solution can be achieved and we will engage with our national federations and other partners. «EU Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis is now in charge of the file - but he has to bring the institutions -including the EU Parliament - along with him. The delay is being caused by an, “impact assessment” which means just about everyone in Brussels wants to join the discussion! The Vnuk case affects other areas of insurance in addition to its effect on our sport». Do you foresee other issues for the sport in 2017? «Not at this time… but that is the thing with public policy. It is unpredictable; we don’t have a calendar of events as we have in sport!» What developments for the touring and commuting riders 14
of Europe? «We see changes. 2016 saw the introduction of anti-lock braking systems (ABS) as a legal requirement for new motorcycles sold in the EU above 125cc. We were able to influence the drafting of this law back in 2008 when contributing to research produced by the European Transport Safety Council. If you look at the EU law it is as we proposed... with an exception for trial and enduro motorcycles. «For the smaller bikes the requirement is for a combined braking system. This was a compromise agreed in 2008 as the motorcycle industry said that ABS on small bikes would be too expensive. Technology moves fast and now price of ABS units is less. Many companies are fitting ABS on 125cc bikes and scooters even though they don’t have to».
Can you give examples? «Yes, one of the first we noted is the KTM Duke 125cc. KTM supported the FIM dinner debate in the EU Parliament in 2014 over two years before the ABS law came into effect and displayed one there. Also at the top end of the 125cc market are the Yamaha X Max 125 and the Honda SH 125 with ABS. «Yamaha then added ABS to their N Max 125. Piaggio market ABS scooters in Europe as well. They have also fitted ABS to the front wheel of a base model small scooter they sell in South East Asia. The ABS is manufactured by Bosch and the single channel unit fitted on the Asian market model is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. «So the European rider has plenty of ABS models to choose from in this category. It is also good that European companies FIM Europe Mag 1/2017
Piaggio and Bosch are extending this safety technology to customers in other parts of the world. This is another example of how EU regulation also can affect other markets». We hear about new laws on the clothing you must wear when riding a motorcycle… can you explain? «Yes! There are so many misunderstandings. When it comes to laws about what you can and cannot wear when riding a motorcycle or scooter that is a matter for national law. So for example Belgium has a law that prohibits riding around in a tee shirt and shorts. You must have you arms and legs covered. «The Belgian law does not specify the type of clothing. So you could legally ride with a thin pair of walking trousers which is about as useless to safety as bare legs. On the other hand by passing this law the Belgian authorities say that it has encouraged more riders to go out and buy proper pair of motorcycling trousers and a jacket». What about European Union law? «That is a different issue. The European Union is concerned more about consumer information and quality standards. So in future if you go into a motorcycle shop and buy a motorcycling jacket the EU wants it to meet certain criteria». But we already have that with the CE marking? «No, in most cases we don’t. If you look carefully you will see that the CE marking often applies only to the impact protectors fitted to some motorcycle clothing… From the top, Bosch single channel ABS, Mr Wim van de Camp MEP outside the EU Parliament with the KTM Duke ABS 125cc motorcycle and a Yamaha 125 NMax scooter with ABS FIM Europe Mag 1/2017
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not the jacket or trousers as a complete piece. «There are some exceptions as some products are made to a, “whole garment” specification. Unfortunately the current CE standards would not be appropriate for all countries in the EU. There are such varied climate conditions between motorcycle touring in Scandinavia and riding to and from work in Rome in the summer. FIM has observer status in the CE work and new standards to suit all different needs will be published early in 2017 for consultation». Are there other issues? «Euro 4 regulations came into effect in 2016. Some motorcycles have disappeared from sale as manufacturers did not think it worth uprating them. Many of the new Euro 4 motorcycles are more fuel efficient, which is really great news. «This process never ends and we are already deep into discussions about Euro 5!» What about road safety? «It has taken the developed world more than forty years to deal seriously with the issue of drinking and driving and change the attitude of citizens. Now I see that we are sleep walking into a new crisis with, “distracted driving” with people talking and texting on mobile phones. «The French authorities were the first to comprehend the magnitude of this crisis. I have spoken many times to M. Joël Valmain who advises the French government on these matters and is also a senior representative of France in the United Nations road safety work in Geneva. «I agree with his view that what can be done with laws and cam16
paigns is limited. There are never going to be enough police officers to enforce laws to make the necessary difference. «We need a technical solution where the mobile phone is disabled (at least partly) once it is inside a car. That way we can benefit from some features of smart phones that will improve safety and cut out the dangerous features that should not be used when driving. «We know this can be done as technology companies are already filing patent applications for such systems». New vehicles are coming onto the road with communication vehicle to vehicle – is FIM Europe following these developments? «Yes. This would be the part of the mobile phone that I would like to see still operating when the user is driving or riding! «This has the potential to reduce the number and severity of collisions between motorcycles and other vehicles, especially at junctions. There is technical work to be done because in a city with many riders a car driver will soon ignore messages if he gets too many. «At higher speeds away from other vehicles when the system can identify there is a risk then both rider and driver can be alerted. «I am not against mobile phones - they need adaptation as part of the package of vehicle and phone so we get the benefits and not the problems of texting and conversations which dangerously distract us». You have spoken about the EU but FIM Europe is all of Europe, how relevant is this to countries that are not in the EU?
«Yes you are right. Of course Europe is much bigger than the EU. It is a fact though that EU issues have an influence across the whole world. We spoke earlier about clothing and riders in Australia seem to have far more knowledge about CE marking than anyone else! This is because the Australian company Draggin’ Jeans was the first to get CE “whole garment” approval for their top of the range motorcycling jeans. «The EU is also one of the world leaders in vehicle regulations including motorcycles. So the specification of the motorcycle sold in Europe will affect what is sold elsewhere. «Another area of our work is with the United Nations in Geneva which has an influence word wide. Few people know this but the UN also influences vehicle regulations, traffic laws, driving licences, and even the design of road signs. We have been active in UN work for the same time we have been working in Brussels. – Since 1988 to be precise». Was there a high point for you in 2016? «Yes. The quality of the FIM Road Safety award this year was fantastic with two of the best rider training schemes (Sweden and Italy) up against the innovative new training device SKIDBIKE. «FMI were well deserved winners. I recall the Congress we had in Treviso, Italy back in 2011 when FMI did a demonstration of their work. It is fantastic. The school training for young people, the vocational training they have done for postal workers and officials who conduct the riding test in Italy. «This is co-operation between the FMI and government mini-
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Above, Mr John Chatterton-Ross with his new Triumph
stries is an example to everyone». Have you ever competed in motorcycle sport? «Yes. A long time ago in the 1970s but I never won any races! I had some fun on the track. First with a Honda 400/4, which was useless as a track bike. Then a Z650 Kawasaki which was a “hot” bike back then. It was fast but the single front disc made stopping something of a problem at times…
«I think it was one of the best things I ever did in my life as it cured me of ever wanting to go too fast on the road. This is why I so admire what they do up in Sweden with the partnership between SVEMO and SMC. “Want
to have some fun?” “Come and ride with us… on a circuit…” They do everything from road safety training to amateur competition that is pitched at the right level». Do you still ride a road bike? «Yes, I just sold a modern Kawasaki 650 that today is regarded as an “entry level” machine – but would have been fantastic to ride on a track back in the 1970s! The new bike is a Triumph – Euro 4 of course – but styled to look like a 1968 motorcycle». Finally, do you have special memories of events in motorcycle sport in your lifetime? «Seeing Giacomo Agostini for the first time in the paddock at
Silverstone. - Accompanied by the sound of his MV 350cc being warmed up. We knew we were in the presence of a super star. Years later I met him in the EU Parliament where he was helping us with some road safety work – he is a gentleman we still all admire. «The 1970s Swedes in motocross. Bengt Åberg, Åke Jonsson or Arne Kring, I cannot recall which one of those three. – But I have never seen a moto-cross bike ridden so fast down the hill at Farleigh Castle. It was awesome! Moto-Cross riders really are something special – when you meet the veterans they are so fit and always seem much younger than their calendar age».
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The FIM Europe Non-Sporting Council was held in Rome/Fiumicino (Italy) and was preceded by the four Non-Sporting Commission Meetings: “Public Affairs and Road Safety”, “Environment”, “Marketing, Promoting and Industry” and “Touring”.
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FIM Europe Non-Sporting Council in Rome Fiumicino
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Public Affairs and Road Safety Commission chaired by Jean-Pierre Moreau The Chairman introduced Mr Morten Hansen, Chair of the FEMA-FIM Europe co-operation group, who was invited to participate to the meeting. Mr Jean-Pierre Moreau was happy to point out that “this cooperation works better and better and gives us the possibility to be stronger�. Among various current questions, the Commission focused on the issue of the motorcycle as part of everyday transport, on clothing standards and Euro 5, which is planned for 2020, new technologies, autonomous vehicles and ITS. The Commission also proposed a new format for the Road Safety Conference to be held in Rome and finished with a discussion on electric motorcycles and electrical assisted bicycles. Electric bicycles include a new category of fast machines which has the same performance as a moped and so is of interest of FIM Europe.
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The Commission decided to tighten the relationship with the environmental stewards in two ways: creating a direct contact with them and asking FIM for FIM Europe to participate in the environmental seminars. Also, the Commission will invite everyone in FIM Europe to follow good example of the Track Racing Commission, which introduced a paragraph about the environment in their code. The Commission will work with the Public Affairs and Road Safety colleagues to ensure that issues that affect the environment by road motorcycles are not forgotten.
The Commission will increase its communications from FIM Europe to the Federations.
Environment Commission, chaired by Adamo Leonzio
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Marketing, Promotion and Industry Commission chaired by Stjin Rentmeesters
The Marketing Commission analysed the new FIM Europe website and prepared proposals for additional features to be added soon. The Commission is working on a video presentation for FIM Europe and planning the launch of an FIM Europe webstore with merchandising. An electronic entry system for all the European sporting events has been proposed too.
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The Commission has recognized the support provided by the FIM Europe General Secretariat and FIM to run Tour Assistant Training, which has given positive results. There are several cases where the Tour Assistants involved in service provision have been recognized by travel agencies that organize motorcycle tours. FIM Europe Tour Assistant Certificates appear to be valued by travel businesses. Some of the Tour assistants have been engaged to provide motorcycle tours. There is positive news for the year 2017 as well, the Tour Assistant Training will be again supported by FIM financially and the Commission looks forward to another Tour Assistant training in August. A venue in Germany is being sought in order to cover central Europe and engage individuals from Federations in that region.
A Motorcycle Friendly Hotel project is also being developed as the new FIM Europe internet site is more user-friendly and provides the possibility to promote hotels.
Touring Commission, chaired by Nils Freivalds
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The Non-Sporting Council
«We have evaluated the good work made in 2016, especially in improving our communication strategy, starting from the relaunch of the FIM Europe website, which has been completely renewed and now is very user-friendly, as well as the FIM Europe Magazine, and increasing our presence at Eu24
ropean level», FIM Europe Vice-President Silvio Manicardi stated. «We’ve just finished our meetings and I can inform about excellent results». «I’m very satisfied with the results of today», stated Dr Wolfgang Srb, FIM Europe President. «The beyond sport activities gain importance and mo-
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mentum by the day and are an essential second pillar. Political decisions and legislation have an enormous impact on the sport and riding in general, so we have to be as close as possible to these decision makers. We need to join forces with the major players in this field; therefore I
am very happy about our close cooperation with FEMA (Federation of European Motorcyclists Associations). Mr Morten Hansen, chair of the FEMA - FIM Europe co-operation group, was present today and gave valuable inputsÂť. 25
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A new European Training Quality Label for Motorcyclists
The European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM)1 has set up a partnership with the German Road Safety Council (DVR)2 to create the first European Training Quality Label for post-license motorcycling training programmes. The key objective of this initiative is to help European riders to easily identify the best post-license training options available in their countries. We consider this to be of paramount importance because all motorcycle safety studies consistently identify 26
human behaviour as the most important cause of motorcycle accidents and most European countries have policies in the area licensing and training but not on post-license training. By focusing on aspects such as road safety, hazard perception and risk awareness, the programmes awarded with the European Training Quality Label will promote defensive riding in real road traffic conditions and allow motorcyclists to share the road in a responsible and safer manner.
How does the Training Quality Label work in practice? The mechanics of the Label are quite simple. All institutions offering post-license riding training can submit applications to the label, the cost of which must be covered by the training provider. Nonetheless, it is possible for organizations offering the same training programme (ridings schools for example) to submit joint applications. Each application undergoes individual scrutiny in order to ensure that the scheme offers a FIM Europe Mag 1/2017
robust option to improve riding skills. There are also rules to prevent prospective training schemes from receiving the seal. For example, training schemes for sportive purposes, those with A representative of the Royal Dutch Motorcycle Federation (KNMV) receiving the European Training Quality Label. From left to right: Dr Veneta Vassileva, of the European Association insufficient pracof Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM), Safety coordinator, Arjan Everink, of the Royal Dutch tice in road trafMotorcycle Federation (KNMV), responsible for transport and training policy, and Jacqueline fic conditions, or Lacroix, of the German Road Safety Council (DVR), responsible for international relations those given by insufficiently Improving post-license trai- tion (SMC) and the Austrian Auqualified trainers are automati- ning across Europe tomobile Club (ÖAMTC) have cally excluded. Although the European Training applied to the scheme and we The analysis of the post-license Quality Label is a relatively new hope that their programmes training programme is carried initiative – it was officially laun- will be certified soon. We out in a transparent manner by ched in September 2016 - se- would like FIM members deliveindependent experts that as- veral organisations have ring training programmes to sess the methodology used in already submitted applications consider applying to the the programme, but grants ri- to the scheme. Riders in the scheme. We expect that in the ding schools enough flexibility Netherlands, for example, can medium and long-term the Euto design their own curriculum. participate in the motorcycle ropean Training Quality Label The Training Quality Label is training programme offered by will substantially increase the granted for a period of 4 years the Royal Dutch Motorcycle Fe- visibility of the best training (renewable) and annual on-the- deration (KNMV), which has programmes and make a posispot inspections to ensure that been awarded the certification. tive difference for all motorcythe training programme conti- There are also awarded training clists across Europe. Dr Veneta Vassileva nues to be delivered to a high programmes in Germany and standard. It is worth noting that we encourage riders to look for ACEM safety coordinator the Label is awarded to the in- these training courses. dividual programme and not to Also, the French Training Assothe institution that delivers it. ciation (AFDM), the Swedish Motorcyclists Central Organisa1) ACEM is an industry association that represents 19 of some of the largest manufacturers of motorcycles, mopeds and quadricycles at European level, as well as 17 national industry associations. 2) The German Road Safety Council (DVR) is a road safety NGO that counts about 200 members and develops road safety programmes. Among the key issues that the DVR deals with are traffic engineering, traffic law, awareness-raising and traffic education.
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Francesca Marozza
The Italian Motorcycle Federation wins the 2016 Road Safety Award 630 instructors, courses dedicated to children, teen agers and adults, 10.000 students trained every year With its 8,5 millions of PTWs, Italy is a country with a large number of accidents: in 2014 816 people died on PTWs. That is why FMI believes in education and the Department of Safety on the roads works on sa28
fety every day, together with Ministry of Education and Ministry of Transport, teaching people to ride responsibly. Courses free of charge in State Schools are dedicated by FMI to children and teen agers, and the goal is to make them well aware of road dangers. Demonstrations and hands-on training are very important too. Courses are organised in safe zones (not on the city streets) and all participants
are covered by FMI insurance. Not only Students: Courses for Adults FMI usually teaches state school teachers how to teach Road Safety. Ministry of Transport wanted (and wants) to reduce the number of adults victims of accidents on PTWs. That’s why in 2009 FMI signed an agreement with Ministry of Transport for Advanced Rider Training dedicated FIM Europe Mag 1/2017
to adults. These courses happen in workplaces. When, in 2010, the Ministry of Transport asked FMI to train its officials, it was an important recognition for the FMI: 2,218 Public Officials supervising the issue of category “A� Licences have been trained by FMI instructors, in 49 Italian cities, during 72 days of training. Instructors have worked hard FIM Europe Mag 1/2017
with officials to explain and demonstrate from a practical viewpoint how they can tell, during an examination, whether a candidate has been properly trained to ride safely on the public road. In 2015 FMI trained 120 postmen with 2 days of training in 6 Italian cities. Coming back to students, the most spectacular way to teach is Crash test. It is an important
way of making students aware of Road Safety issues: up to 500 students at a time can watch braking demonstrations, crash testing with dummies showing different kinds of accidents that actually happen on the road, intervention of Paramedics, Firemen and Police officers, and the entire event is clearly explained by the instructors. Francesca Marozza 29
FIM EUROPE INSIDE
Steve Aeschlimann during his lesson at the University of Rome “Foro Italico”.
The FIM CEO at the FIM Europe Advanced Course in Motorcycling Management Steve Aeschlimann, recently appointed as FIM Chief Executive Officer, was a “special” lecturer, today, at the FIM Europe Advanced Course in Motorcycling Management, which is being held at the University “Foro Italico” of Rome, in Italy. «We are supporting all the initiatives for the education of managers involved in motorcycling, which is paramount for the FIM and we hail this initia30
tive from FIM Europe for managers and riders, which represents an example of how a master at this level can be. In fact, it includes various aspects of management, which are important for somebody who wishes to work in this field», Mr Aeschlimann stated. «We are proud to contribute and to explain the mission of FIM to this very selected group of ‘students’. It is interesting to
hear the feedback and the perception about the FIM from people who wish to start a career in the world of motorcycling. «We all benefit from this initiative: FIM, FIM Europe and the students. I am happy to be here and to share this experience». During the lesson, Steve Aeschlimann asked the Master attendees what they knew of FIM and what they would have liked FIM Europe Mag 1/2017
FIM EUROPE INSIDE
Mr Aeschlimann with Alessandro Sambuco, FIM Europe Secretary General
to know. So, various, interesting topics were dealt with, from the principles of FIM Governance to the relationship with promoters, from the riders’ representation to careers and jobs in FIM, from the relationship of FIM with the National Federations to the initiatives for Women in motorcycling and Road Safety.
The lessons on Governance will continue tomorrow with the intervention of Alberto Rinaldelli, FMI Secretary General, and of Alessandro Sambuco, FIM Europe Secretary General. «I want to thank Steve Aeschlimann for his presence here today», stated Alessandro Sambuco. «In particular, I appreciate
his effort in being here few days after being appointed FIM CEO, since I guess it must be a very busy period for him, but he wanted to fulfill the FIM engagement in our Advanced Course in Motorcycling Management and in his lecture was able to arouse the students’ curiosity».
SPORT NEWS
Women Motocross Championship for the first time in Ukraine In 2016 the Ukrainian Motorcycle Federation (FMU) hosted the Women Motocross Championship. It was the first time such an event was held in Ukraine since its independency. Vadym Kopylov, President of the Ukrainian Motorcycle Federation, stated: «Seeing the tendencies of impetuous popularity of motorcycle sport, the board of the Federation decided to create a separated
Natalia Zaichenko
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women class in the Ukraine Championship and positive results arrived. Now we will do as much as possible to develop the women motorcycle sport and to establish the Women Motocross Championship as a traditional event. Ukraine has to perceive champions among women in order to present our Country at high level in the European and World Championships». For the first time nine sportswomen took part in the Ukrainian Motocross Championship. The series included five round in different Ukrainian towns: Alyoshki, Koretz, Sumy, Kramatorsk, and Kropyvnytskyi. The winner of the Ukrainian Women Motocross Championship in 2016 was Natalia Zaichenko, on the Yamaha UZF 250. As Natalia remarked: «I’ve always loved motorcycles, but I have no ideas where my passion
came from – there were no specific examples. Maybe that is why I had bought my first motorcycle long time ago, it was a Spark 150 S-17. I really wanted a motorcycle but I couldn’t ride it, so I dealt with a scooter first. I drove that Chinese 50cc scooter for one season and then I started to consider buying the motorcycle I had been longing for all my life long! I was advised to get some motocross lessons. Two lessons were enough for me not to get off a motocross bike and keep in this sport for FIM Europe Mag 1/2017
SPORT NEWS
nine years… » Yamaha 85сс was Natalia’s first motocross bike. Her first competition was held after 8 months of training, she drove Kawasaki 125сс then, by the end of that year she already had Yamaha UZF 250. Denis Kienko has been Natalia’s coach for many years. Together with him Natalia won the cup of Lyublyanschina in Poland in 2015 and last year she took part in the Women European Motocross Cup and won the Ukraine Women Motocross Championship. Before that, Natalia used to be a participant in competitions among men. Now motocross is developing more actively, and there are more girls in this sport. When Natalia began racing, she was the only girl. «Actually, it was fun and quite interesting. The fight was strong. Opponents accepted me perfectly”, said Natalia. “This kind of sport is is developing quite slowly, and when a
Anastasia Finchenko FIM Europe Mag 1/2017
newcomer appears, everyone is happy and tries to help». The second place was gained by Anastasia Finchenko on a Honda CRF 250R. She started to participate in motocross when she was a child, her father Andrew put her on a motorcycle when she was five. As Anastasia recalls: «When I was 15, we went to watch a race in Genichesk city, Lyubovs Leontyeva won, beating all men of her age, and I wanted to ride as good as she did, then together with dad we started our trainings. Many people told me that it is not a female sport; but I really liked it. After a year and a half I was racing my first competition in Melitopol, it was the Ukrainian Championship of Supercross and I participated in the “amateurs” class. It was a very exciting ,challenging race, and I placed 18th among 26 men». In 2015 Anastasia started to compete for the cup of the Motorsport Federation in Ukraine in the women class in Energodar, she gained a second place in Sumy, as well as first places in Zhytomyr, Krasnograd, Velyka Znamenka, Chernivtsi, Hust and Kirovograd, and as the result she took the absolute se-
cond place and received the title of Candidate for Master of Sports of Ukraine in motorcycling. In 2016, the women class appeared in the Ukrainian Championship and Anastasia decided to participate. The first stage of the competition was in Alyoshki, there were only 9 girls and Anastasia placed 2nd. In the second stage, in Koretz, she placed 3rd, then in Sumy, Kramatorsk she was 2nd again and at the final stage in Kropivnitskiy she won the race. Anastasia said: «With every race I gained experience, I was also given important tips, my father tried to do everything for me, despite it was difficult. I had strong rivals as Natalia Zaichenko and Natalia Levina, it was not easy, and everyone wanted to win. Mo33
SPORT NEWS
tocross is a one big family, everyone here is very good and kind, every athlete supports each other. I found true friends here. My goal is to win the championship of Ukraine in 2017». The third place in the Ukrainian Motocross Championship among women in 2016 was gained by Natalia Lovina, on Husqvarna 250. Natalia is a creative, versatile personality. She started to practice motocross in 2009. From the earliest days, when Natalya sat on the motorcycle, Denis Kienko became her coach, and she still improves her skills with him. She took part in the Championship of Ukraine of 2012-2015 in races with men and participated in the Championship of Lyublyanschina among women at international level, which took place in 2015 in Poland. In 2016 she performed in the first European Cup in Motocross among women, which also took place in Poland. As the result,
Natalia Lovina in 2015 Natalia received the title of Candidate for Master of Sports of Ukraine in motorcycling. Previously she competed only with men, which initially put girls in unequal conditions on the track. In 2016 the establishment of the women championship promoted gender equality on the sport tracks. «I am very happy that finally the female class is organized in Ukraine in the framework of the Championship of Ukraine, which allows girls to participate with equal rivals and earn prizes in healthy competition», said Natalia. «All this increases significantly my motivation; we see that the number of participants is growing. In 2015, six women participated in races, and in 2016 there were already 9 of them. I hope next year there will be even more parti-
cipants. I want to emphasize that during the World Cup a real spirit of sport struggle appeared among the rivals and this atmosphere inspired each of us to fight to the end, in any weather, on any ground. The results of 2016 were pretty good, and I am sincerely grateful for that to my coach, team mates, my rivals, and of course my family – my husband and daughter for their support, experience and faith in me». Carrying out Ukrainian Motocross Championship among women in 2016 gave hope to many girls to believe in themselves and to embody their ambitions at the national level. The Ukraine Motorcycle Federation intends to continue the standard improvement of Ukrainian motocross to harmonize it with the high requirements of the FIM Europe and FIM, being its member for a long time. Maksim Sitnitskiy FIM Europe Marketing, Promotion & Industry Commission (MPIC)
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FIM EUROPE INSIDE
From the left Palmino Poli, Chairman of FIVA Motorcycle Commission, Silvio Manicardi, FIM Europe Second Deputy President, Panagiotis Kalaitzis, Member of FIM Touring and Leisure Commission, Damiano Zamana, Director of FIM Touring and Leisure Commission, Natasa Jerina, FIVA Motorcycle Commission General Secretary, Bjorn A. Hvaleby, member of the FIVA Motorcycle Commission
FIM Europe at the FIM and FIVA meeting in Rome On January 16th at the FMI headquarter in Rome (Italy) the second meeting was held between FIM (International Motorcycling Federation) and FIVA (Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens). These meetings have the purpose to promote the collaboration between the two organisations both at World and European level. FIM Europe was present at FIM Europe Mag 1/2017
the meeting with Silvio Manicardi, FIM Europe Second Deputy president. Many items have been discussed, including the possible participation to the respective events, mobility problems during the week and in town and the swapping of information to create a stronger presence of historical PTW in the political world. At the same time both orga-
nisations agreed on common ground of co-operation in order to boost touring activities with historical motorcycles. Both organisations in their specific fields agreed upon common goals, which are promotion, preservation and development of motorcycles, its related activities and the protection of the riders’ rights.
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FIM EUROPE INSIDE
In the photo from the left: Kent Jörnevall, Johan Furbok, Hasse Gustafson, Bernd Pollman, Igor Eškinja, José Campos Costa, Peter Howarth, Igor Bošković, Tanja Henschel, John Davidson, Jurgen Reidel, Janez Grom
European Classic Road Racing Championship
Prize-giving ceremony The FIM Europe Vintage Commission has organized a Prize Giving Ceremony for the winners of the 2016 Classic Road Racing Championship. The event took place in Zagreb at the Esplanade Hotel. It was organized by the Vintage Commission
member from Croatia, Igor Boskovic, with the support of the Road Racing responsible John Davidson. As a special guest to help present the trophies, the Vintage Commission invited Igor Eskinja, a good friend from the vintage activities
and well known FIM member. After the prize giving and speeches from Igor Boskovic, John Davidson and José Campos Costa, a dinner was served to all the riders, spouses and friends present.
FIM EUROPE INSIDE
FIM Europe new website FIM Europe has its new website. Completely renewed in its design, it is landed on the innovative, easy-to-use Wordpress platform maintaining all its contents and being even enriched. Visually appealing, it has been designed to generate a prompt positive impression and to invite visitors to surf from one page to another. The good use of colour, graphics and highquality photos helps viewers to focus on FIM Europe message. Every component of the new website works quickly and correctly, because the aim was to create pages easy to read, to navigate and to understand. The new FIM Europe has been optimized for mobile visitors thanks to responsive graphics, which “sense” the screen resolution of the device loading the website and “respond” by resizing the content to best fit those dimensions, thus encouraging greater consultation and FIM Europe Mag 1/2017
usability for its users everywhere. The new website is also more "social media friendly", so the news, photos and releases are easier to share within the various social media. Besides, a substantial improvement has been achieved for the the backend activities by the website administrators, which thus guarantees a continuous updating, easy and fast than ever before. The new WordPress platform ensures a continuous multilingual assistance for users, should technical problems occur. As for the structure, the “About us” session gives access to “FIM Europe at a glance”, “FIM Europe History”, “FIM Europe Members”, “FIM Europe Organization”, “FIM Europe Rules” and “Contact FIM Europe”. The “Sport” session contains the sub-sessions “Road Racing”,
“Drag-Bike”, “Motocross/Snowcross”, “Supermoto, “Enduro/ Rally”, “Trial”, “Track-Racing”, “Vintage” and “Motoball”. The “Beyond Sport” section gives access to “Environment”, “Public affairs” and “FIM Europe Club”. The “Results” session opens a window on all sports results. The “Events” session links all the information about the FIM Europe Congress. The “Media” session contains “Press Releases”, “FIM Europe Magazine”, “Photos” and “Latest Videos”. The “Touring” session gives access to “Moto Tour Assistant”, “The Eclipse in Stars & Stripes”, “FIM Recommended Hotels” and “European Moto Museums”. The Login area gives access to the Open Calendar and to the Download area. 37
FIM EUROPE INSIDE
All the 2016 Champions in Road Racing, Motocross and Supermoto from the Balkan as well as the Bulgarian Championship. All photos by Plamen Kodrov, LAP.bg
FIM Europe at the Balkan Motorcycle Union meetings in Sofia
The meeting of the Management Council of the Balkan Motorcycle Union (BMU) was held on Saturday at Hotel Moskva in Sofia. The 2016 results of the various Championships as well as the rules and calendars of the Balkan Championships for 2017 have been approved. BMU President Bogdan was unanimously re-elected for another term of five years (2017 - 2021).
Also elected: the members of the Management Council and the various Commissions (Road Racing, Motocross, SuperMoto, Enduro and Baja as well as MotoClassic. The BMU and Bulgarian Prizegiving Ceremony took place on Sunday afternoon in the presence of the Champions, families and friends in front of a big media attendance. A special plaque was given to Mr Rumen Petkov, the Chairman of
the Organizing Committee "Grand Prix Bulgaria" for his support and commitment since many years. «It was a special day with the Champions from all the disciplines, who have worked very hard to achieve their goals. A big thank you to all the Federations, organizers and officials who made the dream of the young riders possible», stated FIM Europe President Dr Wolfgang Srb. Participants of the meeting of the Management Council of Balkan Motorcycle Union. From the left, Bogdan Nikolov, BMF President, Stelios Korelis, AMOTOE President, Mirko Butulija, AMSS President, Bozidar Mihailovic, AMMS, Nicoleta Olariu, FRM Vice President, Marios Agathokleous, CyMF President, Dr Wolfgang Srb, FIM Europe President
FIM Europe Mag 1/2017
FIM EUROPE INSIDE
FIM Eu rope at the a n nual meeti ng of Alpe Adria Motorcycle Un ion AAMU
The annual meeting of founders and members of Alpe Adria Motorcycle Union AAMU was held at Opatija, in Croatia, at the presence of the President of the Croatian Federation Mr. Stjepan Persin. FIM Europe Vice-President Martin de Graaff was present too, and brought the greetings of President Dr. Wolfgang Srb, wishing all the best for everybody’s work. The Road Racing commission, after a confrontation with the Management Board of AAMU, adopted the decision that from 2017
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the former promoter will no longer follow the Road Racing Championship and Alpe Adria Road Racing Commission will continue its job. On behalf of all members of AARRC the warmest thanks to the Promoter for the collaboration of the latest three years, without excluding future new agreements. Technical and sporting rules were defined, too, while the calendar will be confirmed within the next few weeks. In the other Sports Commissions of Enduro, Trial and Motard, regulations and ca-
lendars were approved, with some races to be defined in the coming days. At the end Alpe Adria Motorcycle Union President Luigi Favarato handed an award the Nations that stood out in the rankings in the various specialties. The meeting was closed by FIM Europe Vicepresident Martin de Graaff, who recalled the importance of the Alpe Adria Motorcycle Union born 35 years ago, in 1981, from which so many champions and sports results have been deriving.
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From right to left: HMS President Stjepan Peršin, Dr. Wolfgang Srb, HMS General Secretary Ivan Lafter
FIM Europe at the Night of the Champions in Jastrebarsko (Croatia)
The Croatian Motorcycle Federation HMS celebrated the 2016 Champions on the occasion of the "Night of Champions" in the full packed Princess Center in Jastrebarsko, near Zagreb. HMS President Stjepan Peršin welcomed guests from government, National Olympic Committee, sponsors, clubs and last, but not least, the 2016 champions in the various disciplines. A show-program (dance performance, music) was well received and made the evening even more
colorful. FIM Europe President Dr Wolfgang Srb addressed the audience in his welcome speech and highlighted the activities of last year. «It was a very well organized Gala by the Croatian Federation. The level and the presentation was first class and well deserved for the successful riders and clubs. Congratulations to the Champions!»
Above, HMS President Stjepan PerĹĄin welcomed the guests. On the left, Fair Play Awards for Mia Ribic and Romeu Pocrnicu. Below, champions in the various disciplines Above, dance performance. On the left, young musicians
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FIM EUROPE INSIDE
Meeting with the Association MediterranĂŠenne de Motocyclisme in Geneva The CONU Presidents of FIM Europe, FIM Asia and FIM Africa had an important meeting with the President of the Association MediterranĂŠenne de Motocyclisme, Mr Abdallah Laraichi and FIM Honorary Deputy President Mr Jean-Pierre Mougin on the occasion of the 2017 Conference of FIM Commissions in Geneva. In the photo, from the left Ray Wilson, Afif Trabelsi, Wan Zaharuddin, Dr Wolfgang Srb, Jean Pierre Mougin, Abdellah Laraichi, Imane Laraichi and Nejib Ouriem.
FIM Europe announces the new Stocksport 300 European Cup In the photo, Ondrej Schwarz (ACCR) during a race of Alpe Adria Cup 300 at Slovakiaring, last September
In 2017 a new European Cup will kick off: the Stocksport 300. The European Stocksport 300 Cup is open to motorcycles derived from the series, with 4 stroke engines for which the manufacturer (or importer) obtained from FIM Europe an approval for this class. As the name European Stocksport 300 Cup implies, the motorcycles used are allowed limited modifications. In order to establish a fair playing field, four models have 42
currently been homologated for the use in the series: Honda CBR500R, KTM RC390, Kawasaki Ninja 300 and Yamaha YZF-R3, with the machines with larger engine capacity subject to stricter rev limits. The main idea is to help young talents to emerge and to prepare them for higher categories. In the starting grid of this Cup riders from national championships are expected, but also it will be a great opportunity for National Championships. All
over Europe, in fact, there has always been a great interest for low capacity classes. The Stocksport 300 European Cup will be part of Alpe Adria Road Racing Championship. The technical rules can be found in FIM Europe website. The calendar of the 2017 season: 25.05-27.05 Poznan -POL 22.06-25.06 Slovakiaring - SK 30.06-02.07 Grobnik - CRO 28.07-30.07 Pannoniaring - HUN 08.09-10.09 Grobnik - CRO
FIM Europe Mag 1/2017
FIM Europe attends FEMA annual meeting in Brussels The FIM Europe Director of Public Affairs John Chatterton-Ross was invited to join the FEMA annual meeting on 4th February in Brussels. Marking another stage in the cooperation by both organisations to defend the interests of motorcyclists. In a message to the meeting FIM Europe President Dr Wolfgang Srb wrote: «It was a great pleasure to welcome Mr Morten Hansen* to our recent FIM Europe meetings in Rome on 21st January. «The progress we have made since 2014 is excellent. The joint position papers send a positive message to the Council of Ministers, the Parliament, and the Commission of the European Union, to governments in the Member States of the European Union; and across the whole of the Europe. «This work has a strong foundation from the International Transport Forum report that was launched at
the 2015 FIM dinner debate in Brussels. «Today we go fast; soon we will go very fast!» FIM Europe was given a briefing on the many projects that FEMA is currently undertaking and planning. These include another edition of the very successful FEMA mobility test which will be run in 2017. This compares different modes of transport for journey times into a city and of course will include mopeds, motorcycles and scooters as well as cars and public transport. FEMA invited FIM Europe member Federations to join in this work. FEMA has prepared advice on how to conduct this campaign and shared it with FIM Europe. Mr Doede Bakker from the FIVA motorcycling commission outlined the work of FIVA to keep classic motorcycles on the roads. «We have an excellent working relationship with the staff and Board
From the left, Jesper Christensen, John Chatterton-Ross, Morten Hansen and FEMA President Anna Zee Below, this bike should let let out onto the roads occasionally... not kept locked up all the time
members of FEMA», stated John Chatterton-Ross. «It was great to meet FEMA delegates from all across Europe. Working together strengthens our defence of motorcycling. At the same time we work proactively to improve road safety for riders. «It is vital that we get behind our friends in FIVA and ensure a future for classic bikes. Banning such vehicles from new low emission zones makes no sense whatsoever as the contribution to pollution from such activity is so small as to be incapable of measurement. They must not be treated in the same way as modern motorcycles in daily use or we will lose a vital part of our culture that is enjoyed by riders and the public. I would say the same about classic cars, and I hope the combined forces represented by FIVA will achieve this».
*Chair of the FEMA-FIM Europe cooperation group.
FIM EUROPE INSIDE
From the left, Martin de Graaff, Dr Wolfgang Srb, Wim van de Camp (Member of European Parliament), Jos Driessen (FIM Board Member). Below, from the left, Driessen, van de Camp, Dr Srb and de Graaff
FIM Europe at the European Parliament in Brussels Mr Martin de Graaff was instrumental to arrange a meeting between Mr Wim van de Camp and FIM Europe at the European Parliament in Brussels. The meeting took place on 2nd February at the premises of the European Parliament. Mr Wim van de Camp is a well-respected Member of the European Parliament since 2009 (member of the Committee on Transport and Tourism - - PPE coordinator -, substitute member of the Committee on International Trade and the Committee on Budgetary Control, and member of the Delegation for relations with the People's Republic of China) and also a very well-known and most enthusiastic motorcyclist. FIM Europe was represented by President Dr Wolfgang Srb and Mr Martin de Graaff, 1st Deputy President; also present was FIM Board Member (and former FMB 44
President and Belgian lawyer) Mr Jos Driessen. The meeting was held in a most friendly atmosphere and various topics have been discussed, like the evaluation of the 3rd driving license directive, E-Call – Connected Intelligent Transport Systems, General Traffic Safety Challenges, Insurance (“VNUK case”), Electrical and Urban Mobility, BREXIT, Import of cheap PWT´s from outside of Europe. «I am very happy about the meeting with Mr Wim van de Camp, who – as an experienced and long term motorcyclist - understands our issues very, very well. In his position as a MEP he is well informed about international and European policies that have influence on riding in general and sport in particular», stated Dr Wolfgang Srb. «Sport is our core business and on that field our Federa-
FIM EUROPE INSIDE
tions carry out an excellent job; however, the “second pillar” of our activities like public affairs, road safety, the presence in Brussels and political lobbying gets more and more important. It is my firm believe that we have to be close to legislation and decisions that have substantial influence on motorcycling and riding, on-
road as well as off-road. «Let me also underline the importance of our cooperation with organisations like ACEM and FEMA. We do not need to invent the wheel just another time but rather join forces to face the challenges of tomorrow», concluded Dr Srb.
From the left, Jos Driessen, Dr Wolfgang Srb, Martin de Graaff, Wim van de Camp and Turi Fiorito, Policy Advisor of Wim van de Camp
FIM EUROPE TRAVELS
We’ll see each other again at Philippi... or rather in Kavala by Rodolfo Romeo Photos: Fabrizio Battaglia and Giancarlo Babusci
Philippi is nowadays an important archeological site on the outskirts of Kavala. "We'll see each other again in Filippi" is one the most famous sentences deriving from the old age; according to the tradition, Julius Caesar' s ghost pronounced those words to Brutus.
Plutarch narrates that Brutus, feeling guilty for weaving and taking part in the plot in which Caesar, who had loved him as a son, was murdered, dreamt of an entity who told him: "I'm your evil spirit, Brutus, we'll see each other again in Philippi".
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FIM EUROPE TRAVELS
It's quite clear that they don't trust me wandering around on my motorbike on my own. At the beginning of the year, when I told all of my friends from the Moto Club Roma that the FIM Europe congress would have taken place in
Greece, Kavala, and that I would, of course, have gone there on my motorbike, most of them said: "I'll join you", without even knowing the itinerary... guessing that would have been great fun.
FIM EUROPE TRAVELS
Often, as time goes by, people change their mind, but this time we started off in 26 with 16 motorbikes! Anyways, it wasn't unusual. It is a tradition for the Moto Club Roma to attend the FIM Europe annual Congress – as already occurred in Sofia, Opatija, Kiev, Larnaca, Riga, Istanbul, Treviso and Cracow which is always a fantastic occasion, as if we needed an excuse to visit new places and take advantage of the warm hospitality that FMNs have always reserved us. Let's now talk about this year’s tour. Despite the high number of participants and the different nations we crossed (we couldn't even think of taking a short cut), the logistical organization has been successful and we had
FIM EUROPE TRAVELS
neither setbacks nor difficulties. Our group leaves Rome heading towards Ancona port. After a few brief formalities before boarding and the last recommendations - ignored, as usual, during our trip - we spend the whole night on a flat see, a good omen for the success of our holiday. At dawn we see the Croatian coast in all its beauty. Myriads of islands are reflected in a sea showing a thousand shades of blue overlooked by the beautiful city of Split. And here we land. This time we won't be hosted in the Diocletian Palace, the main cultural attraction of Split that we know by heart, and we immediately head South, driving along the wonderful coastal road.
FIM EUROPE TRAVELS
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At every turn, sea sceneries and islands appear as attractive as the odyssey sirens and, like modern Ulysses, we are continuously tempted to dive into the sea (possibly without motorbikes...) for a swim in a blue flat water that resembles a big lake. Small villages of white houses with brick colored roofs and dark green pine trees arriving by the sea reflect into the water, contributing to paint a colored palette from which it is hard to look away. After about 160 km we leave the coast and reach Bosnia Herzegovina, driving towards Mostar. Along the road, a short deviation leads us to Medjugorie, which, other than for those touched by the emotional atmosphere created by the testimonies of the apparitions of the Virgin FIM Europe Mag 1/2017
Mary, is not of great interest. Mostar is totally different. It's a place worth visiting, as it keeps its charm unchanged despite the significant influx of tourists and the still visible signs of human madness. The new bridge, from which the town takes its name (Mostar means bridge), rebuilt in 2004 after the blowing up of the one built by the Turks in
1566, preserves the look of the old one, but the thought of the original bridge deeply saddens me. I clearly remember the first time I saw it: it was in 1985 during a trip with two very close friends of mine - Camillo and Roberto who are with me also this time. Back in the days, I drove my wonderful R100, had a few years and kilos
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less, and no children. Today, I drive my GS1200Adv with more km and kilos, and a lot of lost hair along the roads, (to blame on the helmet?) but with the same perpetual desire to travel by motorbike. We get again on the saddle (with a bit more difficulty this time) and after about 1h30 we overlook the sea again and arrive in the spectacular and charming city of Dubrovnik. The attempt to describe the beauty of this old city, once part of the Maritime Republic of Venice, is a task beyond my capacity. We leave
our motorbikes at the hotel and scatter all over the narrow roads of the old town in order to fully enjoy the sunset and the evening among lots of small spots attended by a "feminine fauna" of high level! For this reason, we receive countless pinches and nudge from our ladies‌ The following morning we're back on our motorbikes and soon after we enter Montenegro. I must admit: I'm not reliable if I've got to judge a place, because when I travel on my motorbike I'm enthusiastic about everything I see, especially if it's some-
thing totally different from what I am used to. Anyway, believe me when I tell you that even Montenegro has unexpected wonders. The inner mountains, some of which reach 3000 meters of altitude, surround canyons and lakes in a continuous alternation, and the whole is linked by winding, nice, amusing and perfectly kept roads. A great fun for the riders, but mind the speed limits, as police officers are extremely strict. Mountains arrive directly above the sea and then, within a range of few
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km, the mountain and continental settings turn into a maritime and mild one. We spend the night in Tivat, a pretty town on the shore of Kotor bay, the biggest Mediterranean fiord. Unforgettable! It's worth visiting the close town of Kotor whose old and fortified part has Venetian origins as well and it therefore recalls Dubrovnik. The day after our compass is still set to south, but just before the Albanian border we head east to overtake the mountain marking the west coast of Scutari Lake. After crossing the pass, the view is
breathtaking! On one side is the Adriatic Sea, on the other side, overhanging, is the big lake (half of it is in Montenegro and the other half in Albania) surrounded by high mountains with peaks that are covered in snow during the winter, whereas now they show the white rock reflecting into the surface of the lake itself. The down road is asphalted but its narrow path-style size obliges three cars coming from the opposite direction to stop in order to let us through. A road that I note on my personal list as one of the
most beautiful roads I've ever gone through. We drive down to the lake and run along it towards Podgorica, but shortly before entering the town, we turn South towards the Albanian border. Customs formalities are quick despite a long queue of trucks, which we easily overtaken. At the border we can feel the sympathy Albanians have for Italians. They take advantage of every opportunity to have a talk with us as if we had known each other for a long time. We drive for a few km along a wide, flowing and perfectly asphalted road
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(where even bicycles and animal-drawn carts look at ease) and enter Scutari where we lodge in the central, small and comfortable hotel Tradita, which has maintained the architecture and the finishing of an old farm. We are allowed to park our motorbikes in the inner garden where they serve us a wonderful dinner; we're
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actually sitting at the table with our travelling "companions", despite our ladies' disappointment. Scutari, as well as the rest of Albania, is unrecognizable to me. In 1994, I had the chance of visiting this Country on my motorbike with some friends from the Moto Club Roma - some of them are here with me now – on
an official invitation from the newly emerged motorcycle association. The country had just come out of a long and dark period of dictatorship, which had totally isolated it from the rest of the world and had actually halted its development at the beginning of the century. It was a fascinating experience, almost like diving 100 years back in time. Albania hadn't yet been hit by the crisis which, shortly afterwards, was caused by the scandal of financial companies leading to a mass emigration. Nowadays everything has changed; I'd say improved. The signs of a terrible past have been cancelled: lots of houses and buildings of that age have been dismantled and, above all, thousands of bunkers which studded each part of the territory, countryside, mountains and beaches - as spots on the skin of someone infected with plague - have been knocked down. The streets are now worthy of this name and host a heavy traffic of any kind of vehicle. Our itinerary includes crossing Albania heading southwest towards Okrid Lake, another pearl of the Balkans
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overviewed by Firom. Then, we enter Greece and drive towards Kastoria, and here we have the distinct feeling of being home. Hospitality is not only sacred to Greek people, but it is also transparent and palpable. We feel it the following day during our stop in Edessa. While parking our motorbikes along the pavement of a narrow street, a lady comes out of a shop, smiling and gesticulating, then goes back in and comes out again carrying a large tray with plenty of fresh fruit that she offers us. A little sign of great hospitality that surprises us (but not so much considering that we are in Greece). In return, we give her a few stickers from our Club, which she accepts,
thanking us as though it was a precious good. The road abandons forests and mountains and continues towards the sea. Here is Aegean Sea and the Chalcidice peninsula that stretches its three fingers out seawards, as if it wanted to touch or grasp something in the middle of the sea: might it be a small island mistaken for (but it really is) a priceless jewel? How wonderful! We arrive in Kavala and in front of the hotel (where the congress will take place) we see Alessandro Sambuco waiting for us (he smiles, but he's certainly sad for not having travelled with us) with Stelios and Panos, our Greek "angels". A picture below the FIM Europe's flag is compulsory. The following mor-
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ning we board on a ferry, which takes us to the Isle of Thassos where we spend the whole day swimming, visiting lovely beaches and stopping in nice restaurants. On Friday the congress starts and for me "the party" is over, as I'm busy with a series of meetings, whereas the others scatter on the outskirts of Kavala, searching for lovely beaches and archeological sites. On Saturday evening we are invited at the gala dinner where, according to our tradition, we give the Greek Federation a little trophy representing the Capitoline she-wolf (Lupa Capitolina), symbol of Rome and of our Club, in order to thank them for the hospitality and as a memory of our trip. We have another surprise in store for the FIM Europe President, who is surrounded and given the diploma of Honorary Member of Moto Club Roma. His surprise is clear and I'm sure he appreciated it. He'll be in good company in the Golden Register of our Club. On Sunday, unfortunately, we must leave, but time is a tyrant and we've got to take the quickest way: the ferry to Italy is waiting for us in Igoumenitza. However, the road is nice and we stop for lunch in Metsovo where we enjoy a very tasteful grilled meat. When we see the Adriatic Sea from a distance, our trip seems to be over...but we try to take advantage of the few hours left. A last swim in Greece by the lovely beach of Ammoudia, where the Acheron river (the entrance to hell in the poem Aeneid) flows, and dinner in a typical Greek tavern. After a few km in the darkness we reach Igoumenitsa
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Port and board on the ferry that the day after arrives in Brindisi. A long and boring journey of about 600 km and here we are in Rome again, satisfied about the beautiful trip and the good memories which will bright up our winter evenings at the Moto Club. The odometer, reset the day of the departure, marks nearly 3.500 km, but our trip is over... just in time to start a new one. P.S. I can't finish without thanking my friends from the Moto Club Roma whose experience, sympathy and happiness made our trip not only interesting but also pleasant and amusing: Roberto, Enzo, Giorgio, Oreste, Fulvio, Alfonso, Marco, Fabrizio B, Davide, Camillo, Massimo, Fabrizio M, and a special thanks to Giancarlo, Alberto and Fausto, who particularly contributed in organizing the trip and planning the itinerary. Inevitably, a thought goes to our trip companions, the ones with two wheels, which totally covered (some of them overloaded) 56.000 km without the slightest problem. I'm sure they enjoyed the trip, too. Ah... I was forgetting our trip companions, the real ones: Cecilia, Francesca R, Francesca F, Carla, Chiara, Maria Grazia, Luisa, Antonella, Nicoletta e Susanna, who, in order to take part in the trip, could stand, with nonchalance, the unavoidable jokes of 16 hotheaded (but not too much) bikers.
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