This is the new BMW Concept 6 which was launched at the Milan show in November showcasing an all-new straight-six cylinder powerplant. Amazing looking thing. The first model to be introduced with this engine will be a new touring machine. Would be fantastic to see this Concept 6 make it to the streets though, although I suspect it will be a zero to fast licence loser or new organ donor machine in the wrong hands At first glance, the new Concept 6 also reminded me very much of some of the early Suzuki Katanas.

 Waking at 6am and realising i’d actually booked the day off, I decided to make a beeline for the show today. After a quick text to Towny to see if he could make it, we hooked up on the M5 and made our way up to the NEC.

With so many exhibitors pulling out of the show since last year and this year because of the recession, I was determined to make this one and show my support. Although there was less there than in previous years I really enjoyed it and it still took a good 5 hours to get round everything.

This year they introduced the new free Bike Park for those turning up on two wheels and it was brilliant. Under cover secure storage for everyone’s bikes + helmet and gear storage for £5 for the day along with a voucher for £2 off a full breakfast! – no prizes for guessing where we headed first

It was really good to see so many people there supporting the show and there were a few things for me that really stuck out bike wise. The new Concept 6, the styling of the new Triumph Tiger and the Ducati Multistrada which have both had a major facelift from what I could see and some fantastic Triumph Speed triples and 675’s. The Suzuki Gixxers really caught my eye too. Everything in the BMW range oozes quality as normal but at the usual small remortgaging price.

I managed to try out the new BMW 1200RT SE and the new 1200GS for size and I still find it very difficult to decide between which I like best. I’m leaning more toward the 1200GS though because the cost of repairing any potential damage to the 1200RT’s fairings and panels just makes me shudder The 1200GS felt more natural for my riding style and the I especially liked the wide bars and the dynamic options pack which gives you Switchable ABS, ASC and ESA ath the touch of a few simple buttons – very nice touch.

 Is it summertime yet?