In 1997, when Christopher Many started overlanding, he couldn’t imagine how the travel bug would hit him. 27 years later, and he’s still on the move. Somewhere Beyond the Horizon tells the story of his most recent adventure. Publishing date: November 2024

Christopher Many turned his back on conventional society in 1997, having decided that a nomadic existence was a better fit for his restless soul. His plan was to embark on a perpetual journey, and never own more than a vehicle and whatever he could stuff inside it.

Around the same time, in faraway Australia, Laura Pattara felt a similar urge to free herself from the constraints of a settled life. She sold all her worldly belongings and bought a one-way ticket to South America. When the two passionate vagabonds crossed paths in Africa in 2008, the outcome was almost inevitable. They fell in love and have been exploring the globe together ever since. Kevin, an old, bright yellow, post-office delivery van, is their current home on wheels.  

Somewhere Beyond the Horizon isn’t an “around the world in 80 days” travelogue, nor is it a diary full of adrenaline adventures. It’s also not a guidebook or repair manual, detailing how to cross borders or fix a flat tyre. Instead, it narrates a curious tale of wanderlust and explores the nature of the eternal nomad. It’s a story of horizons, distant lands, wonderful encounters, unusual observations, and the freedom of the road. You’ll be taken on an overland quest from Europe to the Arabian Peninsula through a rapidly-changing world. En route to Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia and Oman, many questions will surface, some entertaining, others perhaps uncomfortable. Either way, the journey will be a memorable one. Hop in, and let’s go for a drive.

Christopher Many’s bestselling Horizon series was launched with the author’s debut book “Left Beyond the Horizon – A Land Rover Odyssey”, following his eight year journey around the world between 2002 and 2010. It was first published on 4 July 2011. “Right Beyond the Horizon – A Motorcycle Odyssey” is the second book in the Horizon series, and was published on 19 September 2016. “Somewhere Beyond the Horizon” is the third volume of the travel-trilogy (November 2024). Foreign language translations are available in German and Portuguese, and a Braille copy can be ordered for those who are visually impaired. The author strongly believes that everybody should have the privilege to experience the world, if only through literature. For further information about Christopher Many’s voyages and future projects, please visit the author’s website: https://christopher-many.com/en/

Christopher Many

Somewhere Beyond the Horizon

An Old Post Office Delivery Van, Two Perpetual Nomads, and a Journey to the Arabian Peninsula

347 pages, 64 photos (B/W), 8 maps, paperback 5.5” x 8.5”

Paperback (RRP): 17.99 € / $ 18.99 / £ 14.99 (ISBN: 9798341234765)

Kindle (RRP): 9.99 € / $ 9.99 / £ 9.99

All three books are available on Amazon in the USA, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, Germany, the Netherlands, France, Italy, Spain, India, Brazil, and Mexico. www.amazon.com/stores/Christopher-Many/author/B00OP6TQGE

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BMW Motorrad presents the BMW R 12 S. Exclusive special model as a tribute to the BMW R 90 S.    

Munich. With the BMW R 12 S, BMW Motorrad is expanding its Heritage range with a fitting tribute to the iconic R 90 S, which in 1973 not only set a sporty exclamation mark for BMW Motorrad with 67 hp and a top speed of 200 km/h in terms of riding dynamics. 

Moreover, the then Chief Designer Hans A. Muth skilfully expressed the sporty ambitions in the design language and sent the BMW R 90 S, as the world's first production motorcycle, with a handlebar fairing designed according to aerodynamic aspects and a red-laid "90" in the R 90 S emblem of the engine, successfully into the race for the buyers' favour. 

Racing successes helped the BMW R 90 S to achieve an iconic image.
It did not take long for the image of the R 90 S to also benefit from racing successes. For example, at the Production TT on the Isle of Man, where Hans-Otto Butenuth and Helmut Dähne celebrated a class victory in 1976. In the same year, Steve McLaughlin also won the prestigious 200 Miles of Daytona, and his teammate Reg Pridmore became the first AMA Superbike Champion in history. Also for this reason, an R 90 S is today, as it was then, one of the particularly sought-after BMW motorcycles. 

The BMW R 12 S transfers the spirit of the R 90 S into the here and now.
More than the Concept Ninety study presented by BMW Motorrad in May 2013, the new BMW R 12 S takes up the spirit of the R 90 S in its overall concept as well as in many details and transfers it skillfully into the present day. Based on the R 12 nineT, it embodies an authentic and sporty retro bike and utilizes several ingredients that make up a skillful homage to the R 90 S. 

"The defining design elements of our R 12 S include the handlebar- mounted cockpit fairing with the tinted windshield, the seat with contrast stitching, and the Lavaorange metallic paint finish as a nod to the legendary R 90 S Daytona Orange from 1975. The design is perfectly complemented by details such as the red-laid 'S' on the side covers, the red double line, and the brushed and clear-lacquered aluminium surfaces of the tank and seat hump," explains Alexander Buckan, Head of BMW Motorrad Design. 

Generous standard equipment with Option 719 Wheel Classic II, Billet packs Shadow and Shadow II, Headlight Pro, Shift Assistant Pro, and much more.
The claim to a sporty retro bike is underlined by the R 12 S with numerous standard product features such as the Option 719 Classic II wheels with wire spokes and shiny, naturally anodised aluminium rims, as well as other high-quality components. The handlebars and fork tubes are in black, and the components of the Billet packs Shadow and Shadow II set particularly high-quality technical accents. Components of the Billet pack Shadow are the left and right ignition coil covers, the oil filler screw, and the cylinder head covers coated in Avus black metallic matt. The Billet pack Shadow II includes the footrest system including foot brake and gear shift levers, the pillion footrests, the hand brake and clutch levers, the expansion tank covers for the front brake and clutch, as well as the handlebar end mirrors. 

Further standard features include the Comfort Package, which includes Hill Start Control, Shift Assistant Pro, Heated Grips, and Cruise Control. For even more safety during night rides, the adaptive cornering light Headlight Pro ensures better illumination of the road in corners. 

Comprehensive program of optional equipment from the factory and Original BMW Motorrad Accessories for customisation.
The BMW R 12 S is based on the BMW R 12 nineT, and therefore all accessory products such as titanium exhaust systems, soft bags, or the navigation preparation can also be used for this motorcycle. For example, the already expressive dynamism of the lines can be further enhanced with the short rear end, which is available as an Original BMW Motorrad Accessory, and the black license plate holder attached to the swingarm. Additional factory-installed options are also available, such as Tire Pressure Control (RDC), Anti-Theft Alarm System (DWA), Intelligent Emergency Call, Connected Ride Control, and the digital display with micro-TFT display as an alternative to the classic round instruments.

Innovators in motorcycle care and maintenance, ROKiT OFF, has launched a brand-new Premium Winter Protection Pack, just in time for the colder months. 

Formulated specifically to combat harsh winter conditions the Premium Winter Protection pack helps owners ensure that motorcycles remain pristine and protected. Offering peace of mind when they’re tucked up for winter, that they’ll be fresh and ready to run when the sun comes back out.

The Premium Winter Protection Pack is the latest user-friendly kit to join the ROKiT OFF range. Each kit offers a unique suite of products, riding riders with everything they need to keep their motorcycle and helmet clean and protected. Top-ups and refills can be purchased separately from retailers.

Check out the full collection below:

Premium Winter Protection Pack - RRP £49.99

Prep for storage with the latest addition to the ROKiT OFF range.

• DURA COAT Anti-Corrosion: A powerful anti-corrosion solution that prevents rust and moisture damage, ideal for pre-winter storage or frequent riding in wet conditions. Suitable for all bike surfaces - metal and non-metal - apply once before winter storage or once a month if riding in wet conditions.
• Cleaner Degreaser: A versatile degreaser for removing tough grime on both painted and non-painted surfaces, ideal for prepping areas for corrosion protection.
• Fuel System Treatment: A fuel conditioner that cleans and protects fuel systems, ensuring easy start-up and smooth performance after long storage.

Helmet Care Kit - RRP £29.99

Designed for optimal helmet maintenance, this kit keeps both the interior and exterior of helmets clean, fresh, and fog-free.

• Helmet and Visor Cleaner: A quick spray-and-wipe solution for the helmet's exterior and visor. Simply spray on and wipe clean with the included Premium Micro-Fibre Cloth, it leaves a streak-free, clear finish.
• Helmet Cleaner, Freshener and Deodoriser: Formulated to kill bacteria and neutralise odours. Spray on and leave to dry to keep the helmet interior hygienic and fresh.
• Anti-Mist Spray: Prevents fogging on the inside of visors and goggles, ensuring clear vision in all weather conditions. Spay and allow to evaporate. 

Motorcycle Cleaning Kit - RRP £29.99

A versatile cleaning kit that provides a gentle yet effective solution for all motorcycle surfaces, leaving a professional-grade finish.

• Motorcycle Cleaner: A pH-neutral shampoo that safely cleans all surfaces without stripping essential finishes - safe to use on all motorcycle surfaces.
• Rapid Clean and Protect: A unique, non-abrasive cleaner that forms a medium-term hydrophobic layer, providing protection against water and dirt. Used regularly, it can help prevent the build-up of dirt and grease.
• Micro-Fibre Cloths, Cleaning Brush and Expanding Sponge: The kit includes two premium cloths for application and buffing, designed to preserve a scratch-free finish. A brush for hard-to-reach spots and a sponge.

Motorcycle Premium Ceramic Pack - RRP £69.99

For long-term protection, the Premium Ceramic Pack is designed to offer professional-grade, ceramic-based defence against the elements.

• Ceramic Bike wash: A high-performance pH-neutral wash, which is safe to use on all motorcycle surfaces, helps prepare the surface for the ceramic coating.
• Dura Seal Ceramic spray: This premium ceramic coating provides a hydrophobic layer for 6-12 months when used with the Ceramic Bike Wash and Rapid Clean and Protect. Simply spray on a clean dry surface, wipe on with one of the two included Micro-Fibre Cloths and buff off with the other. Easy as that!
• Rapid Clean and Protect: Perfect for the upkeep of the Ceramic coating, to be used as a regular bike wash.
• Expanding sponge: Premium long-lasting sponge included in the kit.

Former superbike racer Gary Mason from ROKiT said: “With this product range, we wanted to demystify the world of motorcycling cleaning and make it as easy as possible for riders to know what to use and how to use it. Our easy-to-use kits allow riders to spend more time on the road and less on maintenance!”

ROKiT OFF is exclusively distributed in the UK and Ireland by Nevis Marketing, to find a list of official stockists or to view the full range, visit www.nevis.uk.com. 

About ROKiT

ROKiT Industries, co-founded by Jonathan Kendrick and John Paul DeJoria, comprises a wide portfolio of multinational businesses and services including drinks, merchandise, apparel, content creation and distribution, new technologies, electronic consumer goods, mesh wi-fi services, ebikes, rapid-assembly homes and tyres, amongst other interests and have invested heavily in recent years in sports sponsorship such as England Rugby League and particularly in motorsports, including being title partners of the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK and BSB teams and the ROKiT British F4 championship as well as BTCC, Formula E and the NHRA.

Sunday 15th December

Depart: 10.30am

The cafes annual Christmas Toy Run will be leaving at 10.30am on Sunday 15th December to visit and drop off presents to the children's wards at two (TBC) London hospitals).  

As well as being grateful for anything that you’d like to donate for ages 3- 11, the toys always asked for are:

LEGO sets

Arts and crafts sets

Barbies

Spider-Man toys

Cars and planes

Please bring gifts unwrapped

Because of allergies hospitals advise against stuffed toys and sweets - the nursing staff however may appreciate some sweet treats!

On returning to the cafe, there will be prizes for the "Best Dressed Bike" and the "Best Dressed Rider" - and a hot cuppa.

NB: On the morning of the run, all elves, reindeer, Santa’s, snowmen and pixies etc. are asked to please check in at the cafe with “Toy Run Ron”.

Later the same day, Sunday 15th December at 7pm, why not join us for hot mince pies at the cafe's annual candlelit Christmas Carol Service!

See you at the Ace!

• Ten-year production run of the bespoke Ariel Ace motorcycle concludes
• Personalised specification and Gulf-type livery marks final model of exclusive and collectable Ace bikes
• Future may see more Ariel motorcycles continuing the company’s 150+ year two-wheel manufacturing legacy

Ariel Motor Company, the UK-based low-volume manufacturer of ultra-lightweight road, track, and off-road vehicles, has announced that the last Ace motorcycle has now been delivered to its owner. Marking the end of a decade of production, the final model nicknamed ‘The Last One’ was the last of the 1,237cc Ariel Ace motorcycles built at the home of Ariel in Crewkerne, Somerset.

Released in 2014, the Ace had a machined billet aluminium frame, and a Honda V4 engine mated to a manual or DCT gearbox, it also featured multi-configurable options – including Ariel’s own girder forks. With the ability to configure bikes to individual specification, from Cruiser to Café Racer, the Ace also spawned several limited editions: the Ace R, the Ace of Diamonds, the Iron Horse, and the Black Edition.  

Every Ace motorcycle was a bespoke build to each customer’s personal specification. ‘The Last One’ was just as special, featuring a one-off ‘Gulf’ type livery, signed by the entire Ariel team. As with all Ariels the bike was constructed, start to finish, by one technician – the honour of the final build went to experienced Ace technician, Joe Green.

Joe Green, Ariel Technician: “It felt like a big moment to send off the last Ace motorcycle. We’ve loved creating these bespoke works of art and we look forward to each returning for scheduled servicing – it’s like seeing old friends again.”

The company’s long tradition of two-wheel manufacturing spans more than 150 years. Today, Ariel remains on two wheels with the new titanium and carbon Ariel Dash E-bike, which is soon to begin production for customers. Although the last Ace motorcycle has been built, the future may still see further Ariel models.

Simon Saunders, Ariel Director: “The history of Ariel is steeped in bicycles and motorcycles, and we’re keen to ensure that this legacy continues to feed our future. We are already looking at the possibilities for a new, different Ariel motorcycle – so, watch this space!”

With Ace production now finished, the exclusive models produced over the last decade are set to rise in value as they become collectors’ items. Ariel retains the original prototype Ace and a demonstrator in the company’s ever-expanding museum.

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