Tag Archives: Coronavirus

Motorcycle News, Motorcycle Racing, News

Jorge Viegas talks the FIM response to coronavirus

Leave a comment

Jorge Viegas talks coronavirus

President of an International Sports Federation

With events being cancelled almost daily due to the spread of coronavirus, more questions have arisen over what to expect for the coming year, with Jorge Viegas – President of an International Sports Federation, sharing an inside viewpoint of what’s going on, and how the FIM is managing the situation.

A 63-year-old economist and President of the International Motorcycling Federation (FIM) since 2018, Jorge Viegas also mentioned doping concerns in an exclusive interview conducted by Jean-Claude Schertenleib, in Qatar last weekend, in tacking some of the hard subjects facing the sport…

MotoGP Rnd Qatar Albert Arenas

MotoGP Rnd Qatar Albert Arenas

Albert Arenas lead the Moto3 field in Qatar, with the MotoGP class unable to race due to travel restrictions

But the President of the International Motorcycling Federation remains optimistic despite facing the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis FIM.

Jorge Viegas Interview

The coronavirus, we imagine it is worse for a President of an International Sports Federation?

Jorge Viegas: “I hope yes, but I refuse to dramatise. I am not a virologist; it is not for me to say what can, what will happen in the future. I chair a sports federation, which also manages other motorcycling activities, such as tourism, mobility. Our goal is to be able to follow all our activities.”

With the promoters of the various disciplines, you are actors. But in this case, you are mainly spectators of political decisions?

Jorge Viegas: “Yes. We will always follow the directions of governments and the World Health Organisation. We recognise that the spread of the disease must be stopped. Unfortunately, a state of general panic now exists. And the worst danger is this: collective hysteria.”

MotoGP Rnd Qatar Fri Moto Bezzecchi

MotoGP Rnd Qatar Fri Moto Bezzecchi

Government restrictions will have on ongoing effect on what is run –

For the past week, each day has brought back new events. However, there are only 52 weekends in a year. Can we imagine that some championships will end at Christmas?

Jorge Viegas: “Yes, If necessary. Imagine that several events have yet to be cancelled and that we have to resume racing much later, well, we will go as far as it takes to keep championships worthy of the name. If it is necessary, we will go until January 2021. For us, it is not taboo.”

Economically, there is going to be collateral damage. All these cancellations / postponements, the season that could be extended, all this has costs?

Jorge Viegas: “Of course, and if we get out of our little motorcycle world for a moment, we have to worry about the global consequences. Factories are shut down, schools closed, all economic activity slows down. There will be consequences, but they are still difficult to quantify.”

MotoGP is the showcase for FIM sporting activities. But there are other disciplines, such as superbike, motocross, trial, enduro, etc. If so, do you follow the priorities by saying: “We first ensure a maximum of MotoGP races and after that we will see for the rest?”

Jorge Viegas: “Not at all. Things are not in conflict between our different championships, which represent the great diversity of our sport.”

MotoGP QatarTest Day Marc Marquez Cover

MotoGP QatarTest Day Marc Marquez Cover

MotoGP Qatar Test

In terms of media coverage, cross-interest and economically – does this multiplicity not become a handicap?

Jorge Viegas: “In all human activities, hierarchies are created in the public, this is the case with us. The great success of F1? Simple, in the world, it represents the top of motorsport. While there are also rallies, tourism, endurance. With us, it’s a bit the same with MotoGP, although the popularity of the motocross world championship is increasing, which is very pleasing.”

But the general public could be lost, shouldn’t we restrict the offering?

Jorge Viegas: “On the contrary, and we are currently working on a new discipline, the e-bike, reserved for electric bikes. There were first races last year, an internal commission has been created and a first FIM Cup is planned, with events in Europe and Asia; I just learned that the United States was also very interested. So no, there are not too many disciplines, there is a motorcycle sport for everyone, in all its forms. An ice race is nothing like a circuit race, but come see one, you will be overcome!”

MotoE Jerez Test March Josh Hook

MotoE Jerez Test March Josh Hook

Josh Hook – MotoE is a future development area

Let’s move on. Before the current crisis erupted, a burning dossier was on your desks: the positive test for nandrolone (an anabolic steroid) by the Italian MotoGP rider Andrea Iannone. However, we are still awaiting judgment…

Jorge Viegas: “The FIM president has nothing to do with the trial. It has been examined by the lawyers for the two parties, who have sent the various documents they deemed necessary and a committee of three judges, all very experienced, who will very soon give its decision. Afterwards, there will be the possibility of an appeal to the CAS, both on the part of Iannone and his employer, Aprilia, if the sanction is considered too severe; or on the part of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) if it considers that the sanction is not sufficient.”

Do the specifics of motorcycle sport always go hand in hand with the list of products prohibited by WADA?

Jorge Viegas: “With us, skill, psyche and courage are more important than brute physical strength. Not to mention the problem of painkillers. I plan to meet the new president of WADA, Witold Banka, to see if it would be possible to have a list more suited to our sport.”

MotoGP Rnd Jerez Iannone GP AN x

MotoGP Rnd Jerez Iannone GP AN x

Andrea Iannone
Source: MCNews.com.au

Motorcycle News, News

MV Agusta continues amid pandemic

Leave a comment

While the pandemic is closing some motorcycle factories in Europe, MV Agusta in Lombardy, the epicentre of the Italian coronavirus contagion, continues production.

KTM, Husqvarna and GasGas will close their Austrian factories at the end of the month for two weeks and Moto Morini in Italy has already temporarily closed.

The Piaggio Group – owner of Aprilia, Moto Guzzi and Vespa – closed its factories over the weekend for a “deep clean” and plan to return to production this week.

There is no word from the Ducati factory in Bologna.

MV Agusta continues

MV Agusta has released a statement this morning (16 March 2020) to say it has reached an agreement with workers’ representatives to continue manufacture at their factory on the shores of Lake Varese, near Milan.

Despite a reduced workforce, they “guarantee production continuity”.

Production continues in “full compliance with the urgent provisions contained in the Prime Minister’s 11/03 decree and with the guidelines issued by Confindustria Lombardia”.

MV Agusta RVS#1 RVS heritage f4MV Agusta factory

A company statement says measures to reduce the presence of staff within the premises have immediately been adopted, such as the closure of non-essential departments, ‘smart working’, unused holiday allowances and Cassa Integrazione (redundancy fund) once the official decision will be announced.

“For those employees who will continue coming to work, the company has introduced a number of measures to prevent and contain the spreading of the Covid-19 epidemic, such as the supply of face masks, gloves, sanitising gel and detergents for the sanitation of work spaces and surfaces in addition to limiting access to common areas,” the statement says.

“Precise rules of conduct, by which every employee is required to abide, have been posted in every department (Covid-19 information circular on ‘rules of conduct and safety provisions’).

“Safety distances between workers are being respected in all areas of the plant, also thanks to the temporary reduction of the number of personnel on site.

“Up to the present moment, the company has no evidence of employees with symptoms connected to Covid-19.

“Normal production activity will therefore continue, yet with all due precautions, except for new Government provisions.”

MV Agusta 75th anniversaryTimur Sardarov

CEO Timur Sardarov says it is their “duty not to give up in this crisis situation, so that the economy of this community can recover once the emergency is over”.

“We took this decision with a great sense of responsibility, towards our employees in the first place, but also towards our local community, which cannot afford a breakdown of its production capability, and towards all the related industries on which so many workers and their families depend,” he says.

“The company has implemented all the information, prevention and containment measures required by the circumstances. We are determined to continue doing our best to support this community, fully respecting the rules and with maximum safety.”

Speed weekPepper, the Harley Road Glide Speed Week missile

The latest motorsport to be impacted is the Dry Lakes Racers Australia 30th Anniversary Speed Week and World Speed Trials Australia #2 at Lake Gairdner in South Australia.

It has been postponed to a date yet to be confirmed.

The announcement follows postponements and cancellations in F1, MotoGP, World Superbikes and many other motorsports.

Originally the DLRA had planned for three doctors to be in place for the two events, but as of today they only have one and there is no guarantee that even he will be available by the end of the week.

The South Australian Country Fire Service is also calling on its members to reduce their extra curricular volunteer activities as they are forced to replace members who have been inflicted with the virus.

“We could no longer guarantee the appropriate medical and fire services that are required for such and event,” the DLRA says.

“Now that the coronavirus has been officially identified as a pandemic, most public liability insurance policies consider any episodes to be exempt which would leave the DLRA open to financial ruin.

“Even with the concerted efforts that the DLRA were prepared to put into place through its mitigation plan would not be enough to ensure a safe risk free environment.”

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

Is coronavirus a threat to riders?

Leave a comment

Our memes about the threat of coronavirus (above and below) have gone viral and been cited by several websites.

Virus meme pandemic coronavirus Covid-19

They may be humorous, but make no mistake; this pandemic is no laughing matter.

Virus threat

It has caused death and serious illness, the cancellation of major events, closing of borders and states of emergency in several countries. Click here for how it has affected motorcycling, in particular.

We’re no medical experts, so we reference the World Heath Organisation’s advice for avoiding the threat of coronavirus. Click here for details.

It basically says to wash your hands frequently and avoid crowded areas.

Obviously, if you have any of the symptoms, you should self-quarantine.

But if not, riding should be safe.

After all, riders wear a face mask of sorts and protective gloves, plus riding is a sort of isolation.

Riders also usually head out into the country where there is less chance of big group gatherings.

And we often stop for lunch at small coffee shops and restaurants. That means less chance of contracting the virus while also putting money in the pockets of small businesses.

We have not heard of any group rides being cancelled and planning is still ongoing for the Dubbo Rally in May.

Ride days

California Superbike School BMW K 1200 S track day - simpleRide day in Sydney

Motorcycling Events Group Australia which operates ride days at Sydney Motorsports Park and Phillip Island says they will go ahead, despite the virus.

They believe that the nature of their ride days makes for a “minimal risk of exposure”. They also supply hand sanitiser and follow WHO advice. 

Health tips

So, if you are out riding, here are a few tips to ensure your safety from the virus:

  • Wash hands thoroughly and frequently;
  • Use hand sanitiser frequently (put a small container in your jacket pocket);
  • Avoid touching your own eyes, nose and mouth (easy with a helmet on!);
  • Avoid physical touching of others, including shaking hands unless you have your gloves on;
  • Cover your nose and mouth if coughing or sneezing, and wash your hands immediately after;
  • Avoid others who are coughing and sneezing;
  • Wear breathing protection such as your helmet;
  • Avoid large groups;
  • Use your credit card instead of cash when buying fuel and food; and
  • Pack your own toilet paper!

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

Pandemic halts motorcycle production

Leave a comment

Several motorcycle factories have halted motorcycle production as the coronavirus pandemic wreaks havoc across the world.

Australian PM Scott Morrison is banning organised non-essential gatherings of more than 500, US President Donald Trump has just declared a national emergency and countries are going into lockdown.

The coronavirus pandemic has already postponed and cancelled several motorsport events including MotoGP, F1, World Superbikes and many motorcycle rallies.

Pandemic halts bike production

KTM factory Virus meme pandemic coronavirus Covid-19KTM factory

Now the KTM group, which also includes Husqvarna and GasGas, will close their Austrian factories at the end of the month for two weeks and Moto Morini in Italy has already temporarily closed.

The Piaggio Group – owner of Aprilia, Moto Guzzi and Vespa – will close its factories this weekend for a “deep clean”, but we believe production will continue next week.

MV Agusta near Milan which is an epicentre of the contagion is playing a waiting game as the situation changes rapidly.

“At the moment the factory is continuing with production and we do not have any problems with the supply chain,” says spokeswoman Alessia Riboni.

“We will see in the next hours/days.”

Ducati has closed its museum and factory tours, but production is continuing.

Ducati factoryDucati factory

Apart from motorcycle factories, there could also be closures at component factories such as Brembo in Italy.

Davida Helmets in the UK has halted production because of a lack of components from Europe and Asia due to the virus.

So the effects for riders in coming months could be a lack of spare parts and further disruption to motorcycle rallies and races.

Even the Isle of Man TT, from 30 May to 12 June, could be under threat.

While we are unsure what Trump’s national emergency will mean for Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycle production, it hasn’t halted the Daytona Bike week in Florida which winds up this weekend.

How to stay safe in pandemicVirus meme panic coronavirus

Despite all the doom and gloom, there is no need for riders to panic and stay at home, unless they have virus symptoms.

After all, riders wear a face mask of sorts and protective gloves while riding a bike puts us in a type of isolation, certainly, 1.5m from others. 

Riders also usually head out into the country where there is less chance of big group gatherings.

And we often stop for lunch at small coffee shops and restaurants.

We have not heard of any group rides being cancelled and planning is still ongoing for the Dubbo Rally in May.

If you are concerned, there are several steps you can take to continue riding and stay safe.

  • Avoid large groups;
  • Use your credit card instead of cash when buying fuel and food; 
  • Wash your hands thoroughly, even tough you wear gloves; and
  • Pack your own toilet paper!

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

MotoGP, Motorcycle News, News

Plans for the future after coronavirus impact

Leave a comment

(Contributed post)

Now that coronavirus is on the spread and is rapidly multiplying globally, it has caused for major events around the world to be postponed, popular MotorGP competitions have been heavily affected by this. This has massively impacted the sporting world, especially those looking to place bets on the MotorGP, there are now huge limits on what you can bet on, with not many fixtures and events available because of the virus. You can find the best betting sites at SBO for your MotorGP betting.

The Argentinian competition for both Moto2 and Moto3 bike classes has been moved all the way back to November, this was meant to take place in April. The Thailand GP that was meant to take place on the 22nd March has been postponed to late September. This could also affect bike manufacture.

Other racing events throughout the year are able to stay as they are from the 3rd May, which is Jerez, Spain. Between now and then, we will all have to monitor the situation and see if it worsens or improves. If the situation in regard to the virus does improve, then the events will go ahead as planned, however if they do get worse, then we will be sure to see more events being rescheduled.

Other sporting events have been put on hold for the meanwhile, including football competitions around the world. The English football league is closed until April, giving it a few weeks to see what the impact is. This is in hope to stop all fans contracting the virus or being at risk of getting it, which is what all leagues are suggesting.

Outside sport, other big gatherings have been postponed, events, conventions, festivals, the lot. It was inevitable considering countries were deciding to ban flights to and from certain areas. This would have made it difficult for travelling fans as it is.

The calendar has completely been reshuffled, delaying certain competitions by months. This does not mean to say that the events still can’t go ahead, because they can. The 2020 season is still meant to go ahead and there will still be major MotorGP events happening, just not at the originally scheduled time, which is great because it means for a lot of rearranging but it is the only safe option available.

There is always the option of the event going on behind closed doors, however this is not favoured by anyone, fans want to be able to turn up and support, whilst racers want to be able to race with a full crowd. If circumstances change and it is the only way in which we can fit all races into the season, then it may have to happen. If not, then certain races get cancelled for the season and then we go again in 2021. Fans would have to watch the events from their TV screen, at least that way they are able to watch the event somehow, instead of there being no recollection of the event.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

MotoGP, Motorcycle News, News

Coronavirus panic hits motorcycling

Leave a comment

As panic buying sets in over the coronavirus, bans are placed on large gatherings and northern Italy goes into lockdown, motorcycling looks set to be one of the victims.

Despite all the doom and gloom, there is no need for riders to panic and stay at home.

After all, we wear a face mask of sorts, protective gloves and riding a bike puts us in a type of isolation.

We also usually ride out in the country where there is less chance of big group gatherings.

If you are concerned, use your credit card instead of cash when buying fuel and food and make sure to wash your hands thoroughly. And maybe pack your own toilet paper!

Pandemic panic

Meanwhile, the world of motorcycle racing is starting to feel the impact of the coming pandemic.

The first two rounds of the MotoGP in Qatar and Thailand have been abandoned and now the third round in Austin, Texas, on 3-5 April 2020 is under threat as the city moves to prevent crowds of more than 2500.

World Superbikes also cancelled their first round this weekend in Qatar and even the Isle of Man TT, from 30 May to 12 June, could be under threat.

Some of these events may still go ahead for TV only, with no on-site crowds as F1 is considering.

Meanwhile, the Daytona Bike Week festivities are going ahead in Florida as planned.

Bike production

Ducati factoryDucati factory

The spreading contagion in Italy — now the worst affected country outside China — also looks likely to affect production of Aprilia, Moto Guzzi and MV Agusta motorcycles and many motorcycle components.

Their factories are near Milan which is an epicentre of the virus in the Lombardi region which is in virtual shutdown.

There are also factories in the region that make automotive components.

Ducati is in Bologna which is just outside the northern contagion regions of Lombardy and Veneto.

Ducati, Moto Guzzi and Vespa have already closed their museum and factory tours.

While the affects of these shutdowns won’t be felt here for some time, we expect there could be some shortage of parts in coming months.

But that doesn’t mean you panic and start clearing the shelves of oil filters!

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

CFMoto adds 300SR supersport

Leave a comment

Chinese motorcycle manufacturer CFMoto will introduce its first fully faired sports model to Australia in May, the 300SR.

It is powered by a 300cc single-cylinder engine with 21kW (29hp) at 8750rpm and 23.5Nm of torque at 7250rpm.

Further details and pricing will be revealed later this month.

However, given the bargain prices of CFMoto models, it will no doubt be highly competitive.

Its main rivals are the Honda CBR300R at $5749, KTM RC390 ($5995), Suzuki GSX250R ($5790) and Yamaha YZF-R3 ($6299).

Supply of the 300SR should not be affected by the coronavirus.CFMoto 300SR

While the CFMoto factory was closed for an extra couple of weeks in January because of virus outbreak, it has reopened.

Australian importer Michael Poynton of Mojo Motorcycles says production is now “close to returning to full capacity”.

The 300SR will join the company’s first non-LAMS bike, the sexy new 700CL-X, which is due at the end of this year.

CFMoto 700CL-X SportCFMoto 700CL-X

The current Aussie line-up consists of the 150NK ($3490 ride away), 250NK ($4290), 300NK ($4990) and 650NK naked bikes, plus 650MT sports/adventure ($7490) and 650GT tourer ($8490). 

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

Virus travel bans hit motorsports

Leave a comment

Travel bans are set to throw international motorsport such as MotoGP, World Superbkes and the Isle of Man TT into disarray this year.

In a rapidly changing world of travel bans, the first round of the MotoGP at Losail, Qatar, this weekend was cancelled yesterday (2 March 2020).

Then Thailand announced it had postponed the second round, but only hours later cancelled the whole event.

The decisions follow the postponement of the 2020 Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix.

Meanwhile, the Moto2 and Moto3 races this weekend in Qatar will still go ahead as the riders were already in the country for testing.

One of the main reasons for the cancellation is that so many riders come from Italy where the contagion has spread rapidly, even causing Vespa and Ducati museums to close.

Ducati museum on Google MapsDucati museum

Travel bans

Qatar has now enforced a two-week quarantine on direct flights from Italy.

That should also affect the World Superikes which is due to be staged there next weekend (13-15 March 2020).

However, there is no announcement yet about that event.

How far the MotoGP and World Superbikes schedule will be affected is anyone’s guess.

The North and South American MotoGP rounds in April may go aead because they do not have travel bans … yet.

But then the MotoGP and WSBK return to Europe where talk of travel bans is growing.

Even the Isle of Man has issued a statement about its TT events from 30 May to 12 June.

Isle of Mann TT Superstock sart travel bansIsle of Mann TT

“The Isle of Man Government is carefully monitoring the Island’s position regarding COVID-19 (Coronavirus) with a cross-government working group established to regularly review the changing situation,” organisers say.

“While the threat to the public in the Isle of Man remains low, a number of future contingency scenarios are being considered. This is usual practice and is in line with the WHO advice for preparations in case of a pandemic.

“The risk is low and preparations for this year’s TT remain on schedule. Work will continue as usual in order to ensure another successful TT. 

“The Organisers, in partnership with the Department for Enterprise and the Isle of Man Government and in line with experts in the UK, will continue to monitor the situation.”

If we’re stuck at home with this virus there won’t even be anything decent to watch on TV!

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

Covid-19 could impact bike manufacture

Leave a comment

Ducati and Piaggio (Aprilia, Vespa, Moto Guzzi) have closed their museums due to the outbreak of the Covid-19 virus (coronavirus) in Italy, but their factories are still operating.

Chinese motorcycle factories were closed for a prolonged period over the Chinese Lunar New Year, but many, including Honda and CFMoto, have now restarted.

In the case of CFMoto, the factory is at around 80% due to workers still returning from extended new year celebrations with 100% production capacity expected over the next two weeks.

CFmoto factory coronavirusCFMoto factory

Supply chain

However, many component factories that supply automakers around the world have not reopened.

And now the virus has moved from a Chinese emergency to one that involves South Korea, Japan and Italy, three major manufacturers of motorcycles, cars and automotive parts.

The impact on motorcycle manufacture and supply of components could now be affected with Fiat-Chrysler the first to warn it could halt production at a European plant in weeks.

Data and analytics company GlobalData automotive editor David Leggett says this is an “inevitable consequence” on the automotive supply chain.

“Many factories in the Wuhan and Hubei province have been on lockdown since the start of the Chinese New Year holidays,” he says.

“The emerging problems for FCA outside of China are likely to be mirrored by other vehicle manufacturers and reflect both the long-run internationalisation of parts supply-chains and the predominance of ‘just-in-time’ lean manufacturing processes that keep inventory low.

“The next few weeks will be critical for automakers. The typical car is made up of 20,000 parts, and there is an elongated supply-chain of parts and sub-assemblies put together in complex sequence to create the finished vehicle.

“Korean manufacturers were the first to show up as impacted by China supply-chain disruption reflecting shorter shipment distances between China and Korea, but the FCA news indicates that impacts across the world are now coming over the horizon on shipment transit schedules.”

Museums close

moto guzzi factory museum V85Moto Guzzi museum’s big red doors will remain closed

As of yesterday, Italy had 374 confirmed cases of Covid-19 and 12 deaths.

The epicentres of Covid-19 contagion in Italy are in Lombardy and Veneto regions where most of the auto factories are located.

Ducati’s factory in Bologna is just outside these central regions.

Public institutions and venues in these regions have been closed and mass meetings cancelled, including Ducati and Piaggio museum and factory tours.

The companies have notified the public that they have closed their museums for several weeks, but both confirm their factories are still operating.

We have not heard from MV Agusta which is near Milan in Lombardy, but their Facebook page has no reference to any closures.

Meanwhile, the organisers of the Geneva Motor Show, one of Europe’s premier motoring events, have confirmed the event is still due to take place as scheduled next week despite the first case of coronavirus in Switzerland.

The Covid-19 virus has already had some impact on Australian consumer confidence and our January motorcycle sales.

Now it could have a longer-term impact on motorcycle production and the supply of parts.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

Will coronavirus affect your ride tour?

Leave a comment

If you’ve booked an overseas motorcycle tour this year and are thinking of cancelling due to the threat of coronavirus, will your deposit or full tour fee be refunded?

A lot of adventure motorcycle travel is in countries that may not have high levels of hygiene and quarantine procedures to cope with a pandemic.

So we can understand the concern about coronavirus.

However, the media hype needs to be fully studied before making any decisions about cancelling tours as you may end up out of pocket.

Terms and conditionscoronavirus

Most touring companies have terms and conditions that include cancellations, so start by reading that.

It may say that there is a no-refund policy or a part-refund policy and it will usually be restricted to a certain period before the tour starts.

This is because the tour company pays for various things such as accommodation, transfers, etc, a few weeks before the tour starts.

Even then, you may not get the full discount with companies withholding some money for administration costs.

If you decide it’s too risky and still want to cancel, contact your tour company for a friendly chat.

Tour companies want your repeat business. Keeping your deposit in such a situation may not be in their best interests.

So they may suggest you switch to another tour or postpone your tour for a year.

Some may even consider special requests for compassionate reasons, or offer a discount on another tour.

You may also be able to talk a braver friend into taking your spot on the tour.

If the coronavirus threat is real and a government advisory is issued, the travel company may also cancel the tour in which case they should offer a full refund or propose switching tours or dates.

Travel insurance

Most travel companies will require participants to have travel insurance and will need to see evidence before you throw your leg over a bike.

But not all travel insurance is the same. Check out our article here about what is covered for riding and what isn’t. You might be surprised.

Your travel insurance may cover you for cancellation for various reasons, so check the terms and conditions.

If you have booked and secured travel insurance, then the government issues a “Do not Travel” advisory, you should be covered by your policy.

Travel companies

We contacted several travel companies to find out what their policy was.

An Extreme Bike Tours spokeswoman says some of their customers have raised a few concerns and asked about the situation with upcoming tours.

She says last year’s Sir Lanka bombing was a similar situation.Sri Lanka Royal Enfield Classic 350 even tours turban

“This affected all the tourism in the country as well as some of our tours. Luckily, nothing else has happened and Sri Lanka has returned to its normal island life in a very short period,” she says.

“This time we cannot yet say what’s going to happen but we are optimistic and all the 2020/2021 scheduled tours are confirmed.

“These kind of events are unpredictable but if we take a look at the recent global history, there has been precedents that were contained (SARS, MERS, etc).”

Click here to read their full and fair cancellation policy.

Craig Jackson of Compass Expeditions says the industry is in “uncharted waters at the moment” with the coronavirus threat.

Compass Expeditions tours screened on TVCompass Expeditions

He says their terms state that any cancellation within 90 days is non-refundable.

“This isn’t because we simply want to take the money and run but it’s because huge amounts have already been spent pre tour to secure the hotels, buy staff airline tickets and secure the support vehicles and bikes,” he says.

“We certainly don’t get a refund from any cancellations we make.”

If a customer cancels their booking up until 90 days before departure they will receive a refund of all payments less a $200 cancellation fee.

Nomadic Kinghts invites daredevil riders to join their first tour of the Cliffhanger track in the Himalayas (Photo by Iain Crockart)Nomadic Knights Managing Director Alex Pirie says he is very flexible and would consider several options: Offer a full refund; postpone the ride until it’s safe to go and carry the money over; offer a ride in a different part of the world; keep the payment as credit for a later date.

For a limited time, they are offering a $US500 discount on their two-week “Rode to Everest” from Kathmandu, Nepal, on 9 May 2021 if booked by 31 March 2020, using the code EVEREST500.

Denise Ferris of World on Wheels says it is not an issue because they haven’t received any cancellations, not even from people going to Nepal/Bhutan next week with her husband, Mike.“But this is precisely why we insist people take out comprehensive travel insurance, so that they’re covered,” she says.

“If the destination country is declared a high-risk area by our government, the clients would then have a bona fide reason to cancel, and lodge an insurance claim for reimbursement.”

Ferris Wheels travel insuranceMike and Denise Ferris

Coronavirus media hype

Craig of Compass Expeditions points out that the media hype does not match reality.

For example, their African trip is some 8500km from the only case of coronavirus in the entire African continent.

“In most countries outside of China it is business as usual in regards to the impact of Caronavirus on our tours,” he says.

“The one exception is our latest major expedition, the 100-day Asian Overland Expedition that departed from Singapore last week and will be heading through Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar, Laos and hopefully into China and Tibet.

“The group are in Malaysia’s Cameron Highlands at the moment and contrary to the media’s reporting South East Asia has not been devastated by the virus.

Compass ExpeditionsCompass Expeditions

“The issues will hit once we arrive at the Chinese border around the end of March. It is possible that the border with Laos, which we intend to cross will be closed or that the Australian Government will still be warning against travel in China, which is certainly possible.

“At that stage, if either of those things happen we will have to instigate a ‘Plan B’ which includes returning to Bangkok via Laos, Vietnam and Thailand. 

“So at this stage we have two massive tours planned and payed for and only one will be used. The original 100 day itinerary has taken over two years to plan and the financial cost to the company is huge even if we do get to complete the original itinerary. But that pales in significance to the damage our reputation would take if we pulled the pin on a major Expedition, so we push on.

“The hype around the Virus has also seen a number of cancellations for our Central Asian destinations like Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan and Siberia, none of which have even reported a single case of Caronavirus.” 

He says some customers have switched to one of their Australian tours, but international reports of the bushfires and recent flooding have also not helped.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com