BMW to launch motorcycles in 1st Bike Week

The biggest gathering of motorcycle enthusiasts in the country will be made more special as German automotive giant Bavarian Motor Works (BMW) launches its full line of motorcycles during the event.

The first Bike Week, which is expected to draw some 2,500 bikers and two-wheeler fans, will be the main stage for the official entry of BMW Motorrad, the motorcycle division of BMW, in the Philippines.

Ma. Cielo Narvaez, corporate communications manager of BMW Philippines, said the Bike Week is the perfect opportunity for their company to introduce BMW motorcycles, known around the world for their sophisticated looks and state-of-the-art technology.

"The week-long event will give us the opportunity to show Filipino and foreign bikers our products," she said.

Unknown to many, BMW began manufacturing motorcycles way ahead of cars. In 1923, the company, which used to make engines for airplanes, introduced the R32, its first motorcycle. Unlike other two-wheeled vehicles, the R32 had a propeler shaft instead of a chain that drives its rear wheel, a technology that is still present in today’s BMW bikes.

Prestige Cars Libis will host the official showroom of BMW Motorrad in the Philippines. Narvaez said that in the near future – or as demand increases – other BMW car dealers in key cities of the country will carry the motorcycle line.

The first Bike Week will be held in two venues – from April 24 to 27 at the The Fort in Taguig and from April 28 to 30 at the Subic Bay freeport.

It promises to be a completely different gathering with delegates from 13 countries participating.

Tito Silvestre, head of the Bike Week’s public relations committee, said the event will give motorcycle companies, food and beverage firms, oil companies and other sponsors the chance to showcase their products.

"They will have a captive audience since all of those who will go there are motorcycle enthusiasts," he said.

The Bike Week will coincide with the 9th annual convention of the National Federation of Motorcycle Clubs of the Philippines. The convention attracts thousands of bikers who belong to more than 100 motorcycle clubs in Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao.

Silvestre said the first Bike Week will surely attract attention as thousands of bikes – from roaring Harley Davidsons to the humble mopeds to the punky scooters – converge at The Fort and in Subic to participate in different activities such as group rides, concerts, barbecue dinners, fun races, and all-night parties.

Silvestre said this year’s national convention will focus on safety and the promotion of motorcycles as environment-friendly, practical, safe and fun way of transportation.

And he noted that those wanting to sell anything – from food, clothing to various services – can take this opportunity to rent booths at the venue. Those interested can call or send a text message to Tito or Marie Silvestre at 0917-7912019.