Win a title, drive a Mini!

By John Hopkins

WHITBY, ON -- BMW Motorrad Canada has unveiled its racer support program for the 2006 Canadian Thunder series and released details on a new motorcycle that will be eligible for the class.

In the BMW contingency program, $1,000 will be paid to the top five BMW finishers in each Canadian Thunder round in 2006, with $400 going to the highest placing BMW racer, $250 for second highest, $150 for third, $100 for fourth and $100 for fifth.

Additionally, should a BMW rider win the 2006 Canadian Thunder title, they will receive a bonus prize of a one-year lease of a Mini Cooper, on behalf of BMW Motorrad Canada.

The new model, the BMW R1200S is an air / oil cooled 1170cc twin with a claimed horsepower of 122 and dry weight listed at 418 lbs. (190kg).

The R1200S would normally retail for $19,000 but as part of the Canadian Thunder program it is available for $13,500. Series competitors would also get a $1,000 parts allowance.

To qualify for the BMW Motorrad Canada Racer Support Program, all interested individuals must supply a copy of their valid RACE license and a rider bio / race resume. For new competitors, a copy of receipt to attend a RACE or FAST school and a letter of intent will be sufficient.