The S1000RR - BMW Motorcycles in Good Stead For 2010

With major motorcycle markets such as the US suffering significant declines in sales in 2009, manufacturers will be looking to the post recession era with an eagerness to push boundaries while all parts of the industry, from accessories to bike insurance, will want to appeal to new potential customers. BMW will arguably be in a fantastic position to make the most of any positive trends in the industry, especially after acknowledging the manufacturer's comparably good performance (dropping only 22 percent, when the entire market fell by 41 percent) in the US over the last year.

The hotly anticipated S1000RR looks set to push boundaries and to really adopt the position of market front runner. Since its launch in 2008, 1,000 production models were made in the following year with the bike being taken to impressive success in the Superbike World Championship by Troy Corser in the Czech Republic and Ruben Xaus in Italy respectively.

2010, however, sees the first of the S1000RR to hit the dealerships - a development in the company that even the project leader, Stefan Zeit, hadn't anticipated when he suggested a BMW sport bike when he first took up the job and was subsequently assured that BMW would never produce one. The fact that the model looks to be the most powerful 1000cc bike on the market has got more than a few heads turned - and a few deposits already laid down too.

So what else does the S1000RR have to offer? Aside from being incredibly powerful, the model also boasts the best power-to-weight ratio available at 183 kg (400 lb) dry and 204 kg (450 lb) wet. There are also many electronic perks such as a ride-by-wire throttle and variable-length intake tracts - as well as optional extras including ABS and traction control. The model has also been noted for its digitally selected sport modes, rain, sport (up to 190 break horsepower), race and slick (for taking onto the track).

Adjustable suspension and ride height also makes each bike easily changeable for each individual rider - and its simplicity is commendable. The model has already entered into the market in high regard, and it seems unlikely that this bike will not remain at the top for some time.

New Motorcycle Touring Boots For 2010

It's going to be a cold January but for the brave guys heading out on their bikes there is much fun to be had. The landscapes will be crisp, the air will be fresh and the roads will be waiting. The only piece of kit you really need for some hardcore riding are decent boots and we've rounded up three brand new contenders for you.

Spada Predators - Reliable and waterproof road touring boots
Price: Under 90 pounds

Spada is becoming an increasingly popular brand for motorcycle enthusiasts in the UK and across Europe because its products are durable and particularly good value for money. Spada touring boots have been prominently featured in the media and have performed well in magazine tests.

Their new 2010 Predator boots have a strong leather outer construction; a waterproof and breathable membrane; shin, ankle and calf protection; toe sliders which can be replaced; both zip and Velcro closure for a more secure fit and a rubber moulded gear change pad. There are very few brands who could boast the same quality for under 100 pounds.

Motorcycle News is one of the biggest independent reviewers of biker merchandise in the country. Spada has repeatedly got into their top product lists. For example Spada Thunder and Spada Element boots both made it into MCN's top biking 10 boots for under 100 pounds. That was before their Predator boots hit the market - no doubt they will make their mark later this year.

These are the best boots for: Dedicated motorcyclists who want to spend long hours on the road without wet and cold feet.

These boots are not so good for: Hardcore racers - you guys need to look into sports boots. Look into Sidi Vertigo or Vortice Boots for a good alternative.

Spada Glides - Short road touring boots for extra freedom
Price: Under 50 pounds

Spada have avoided the winter blues with their new 2010 Glide Waterproof Motorcycle Boots. These half length tourers are guaranteed 100% rainproof and come in a sharp short style - giving you more freedom on the road and making leg movement feel less restricted and more natural.

The boots have a double leather and man made upper, giving a rider the quality of a traditional leather boot and the robust construction of synthetic materials. Glides include a waterproof and breathable Hipora membrane and a rubber gear change pad to stop the boots deforming from continuous wear.

All Spada touring boots, including their latest Glides, are fitted with velcro and zip closure for extra security, along with reflective piping on back to make sure that you're seen by drivers, no matter what the weather has in store.

These are the best boots for: Footloose motorcyclists or commuters who want to feel the freedom of the road but don't want to feel confined in their biking gear.

These boots are not so good for: Risk takers - that extra bit of protection from a full length boot will go a long way in a crash. If you like high speeds and sharp turns invest in a full length boot like the Spada Predators of Ghost Stealth Motorcycle Boots.

Spada Ladies Full Length Waterproof Sofia Motorcycle Boots - For serious female bikers
Price: Under 60 pounds

Women riders are increasing in numbers and they deserve their own kit. With that in mind Spada has designed its new 100 per cent waterproof Sofia Motorcycle Boots just for female bikers who have a passion for touring.

The new 2010 Sofia Full Length Waterproof Motorcycle Boots have a strong leather and man made outer construction; a waterproof and breathable membrane; shin, ankle and calf protection; reflective back panels so you are seen on the roads even in gloomy conditions; both zip and velcro closure for a more secure fit and a rubber molded gear change pad. They continue Spada's theme of providing robust footwear for far less than their rivals.

Spada Sofia Boots are sleek but, more importantly, they are comfortable boots for serious touring.

These are the best boots for: Female bikers who are looking for tapered boots that will allow them to enjoy the roads for just as long as their male riding partners - in all weathers.

These boots are not so good for: Men - you may be favoured by Yorkie advertising campaigns, but these boots are not for boys.

This page was brought to you by Helen Perkins at Ghostbikes. Ghostbikes is one of Europe's biggest sellers of motorcycle boots, helmets, jackets, gloves and biking accessories. The Preston-based company has a whole selection of gear available for professional and enthusiastic motorcyclists looking for top quality brands and exclusive products.