If you don’t know who is POP BANG COLOUR is, let me fill you in…

Ian Cook is a contemporary British artist renowned for creating artwork using radio-controlled cars, car tyres and toy car wheels #PaintwithCars. He also creates #ContinuousCar drawings with one continuous line, commissions, school workshops and team building events, paint events and pop bang car vinyl wraps.

Painting with cars is quite simple – paint is applied onto the canvas, and the cars and wheels are run through the paint. However, prior to any painting being created, there is a great deal of preparation in choosing the correct image/s, doing a few tweaks (flipped, removing backgrounds if requested etc.) or mocking up a completely new image; this is what the client requires.

He a little back story on him:

Graduated with a first-class degree in Fine Art Painting, Ian has a quirky edge and has always described his artwork as ‘a friendly explosion of colour’. His unique process of painting started for 3 main reasons;

1. Car and motorsports enthusiast

2. He has trained and always wanted to be an artist

3. For Christmas in 2006, he was bought a radio-controlled car and was told: “Don’t take it down the studio and don’t get paint on it!” and so he decided to do just that.

Since 2007, Ian has combined his passion for cars and art, creating various artworks and projects. Highlights include painting a portrait of Lewis Hamilton the size of a 3-storey building, breaking a Guinness World record and having artwork featured on Top Gear.

Ian and his fleet of paint-splattered cars can be found at popular motoring shows and events in the UK and internationally when not painting in the POPBANGCOLOUR studio.

Artworks are generally created to commission or appeal to the audience who are likely to be at the event, whether at BTCC, Goodwood, Silverstone, or elsewhere.

His big break started with the first artwork he created live in a shopping centre in Wolverhampton. This was covered by the local media and then picked up by the national media. This led to featuring at various motoring events when at the 2008 Goodwood Festival of Speed, an employee from M&C Saatchi spotted Ian’s work…

He has worked with a lot of automotive brands, Car Events and appeared on BBC One.

His skill and work are distinctive, and you have definitely seen his work without even realising it!

If you want to check out more of his work, here are his details:

Website – Pop Bang Colour

Instagram – Pop Bang Colour

Facebook – Pop Bang Colour

Twitter – Pop Bang Colour

Here is my interview and live drawing with Ian Cook, aka Pop Bang Colour

Any comments and subscribes to my Youtube Channel would be much appreciated as I want to grow the channel to help other MINI owners out worldwide and bring the community together.

If you want your car drawn to drop him a message, he will get back to you on a time and date.

The cost was £75, which included the drawing being sent to you plus you’re supporting a British artist!

If you want to modify your MINI like mine – Here is my Ultimate R56 MINI Modding Bible – Click here for my guide

Hopefully, this guide will give you a stepping stone to find the perfect MINI, and I look forward to the MINI Adventures.

Here are my recommendations for MINI UK & Overseas specialist to visit for repairs, upgrades or parts:

Lohen – lohen.co.uk

1320 Mini – 1320.co.uk

Sussex Road & Race – sussexroadandrace.co.uk

Millys Auto – millsysautos.co.uk

TWG Automotive – twgautomotive.co.uk

MiniWorks – mini-works.co.uk

RSI C6 – rsic6.com

Outmotoring – outmotoring.com

ESC Tuning – ecstuning.com

Detroit Tuned – detroittuned.com

My list is made by my own opinions and me speaking to respective companies & other owners worldwide, and this is not a sponsored post for full transparency.

If you got the modding bug, don’t forget to check out JCW Adventures Store or Official eBay Store for some stickers for all generations of MINIs or R56 JCW carbon fibre exhaust tips seen on my MINI R56 JCW to support the blog & YouTube channel.

All your support over the years, and please offer that same support by following my Youtube Channel as well : )

As Always, it’s a MINI Adventure try to keep up & Stay Safe!

Support the blog by Sharing, Subscribing or Buying from the stores

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The post Automotive Art: Pop Bang Colour Draws My MINI R56 JCW appeared first on JCW Adventures.

MINI UK team invited Rob & me to the factory for the all Electric model – MINI Cooper SE UK launch to see what we thought of this new model which we were a truly honoured.

The day started with us arriving at MINI Plant Oxford to meet the MINI UK Event and product team to get an overview of the event and all the details on the electric MINI.

MINI showed us a cutaway of the Electric MINI Cooper SE so we could see the motor and the battery pack in all its glory.

Embracing the shell of the MINI was the Electric Motor packing 135 kW/ (181 hp) and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) which is encased in a cage for crash safety reasons.

The 32.6 kWh battery forms a T shape in the shell running from the transmission tunnel and fuel tank space from traditional F56 MINI and gives a Range: 124 – 144 miles (WLTP) – 235 – 270 km (NEDC).

The MINI Cooper SE weight penalty is 145kg and rides 15mm higher but has 30 mm lower centre of gravity due to the batteries.

Joining a small select group of people we started the day off with a plant tour learning about how the MINI is manufactured with the tour guide and management proudly explaining the accomplishments of using the same production line for both the electric MINI and It’s petrol brother. However, the group (including myself) was currently too fixated on spotting one of the first MINI GP3’s going down the line, having the massive rear wing fitted – the irony!

MINI UK Product Manager gave us a presentation outlining the MINI Cooper SE spec and how the day would go with our routes and everything we could possibly need to know.

Rob & I were handed our lanyard for the event outlining which are MINI we would be in for our run scenic drive through the heart of the Cotswolds to the Thyme Hotel for a late lunch. This would allow a mix of road types to experience in every scenario possible over 45 miles. After lunch, it was the same 45-mile journey back to the plant before heading home for the day.

Rob took the wheel for the first, so I sat passenger ready to see what it would like as back seat driver. This gave us time to take some pictures along the route and talk about the experience given I have worked at an electric go-karting track for over 6 years now as a part-time weekend job, and this would be Rob’s first drive in an electric power vehicle.

Rob’s impression of the all Electric MINI Cooper SE:

I wanted to share my thoughts on the vehicle, especially as this was my first time experiencing an electric car. Straight away, I wasn’t even sure if I’d turned the car on, after some slight confusion and a notification of a chime to confirm I had, I selected drive and the very first thing that became clear, was the lack of mechanical components, no clunk of metal from a clutch or gearbox, just a very smooth pull away from standstill with a slight buzzing sound artificially pumped through the speakers. The Electric MINI has 4 different modes; Eco Plus, Eco, Medium and Sport, each with their own characteristics. 0-62mph in 7.3 seconds while 0-37mph in 3.9 seconds. The car rides slightly higher due to the weight of the batteries, for most buyers I think this will be negligible and yes, while the petrol head in you will scream that this equates to a higher centre of gravity, I found that driving in a world surround by SUV derived vehicles, it means that you’re a bit more noticeable and may just escape the dazzling of oncoming motorists with LED headlights. Another plus for the height is the way it handles bumps and potholes, two things that litter the UK’s road network, especially the beloved British B roads, the MINI no longer seems to crash and bang over these monstrosities, while the suspension is still stiff and MINI like, the bumps are more welcomed with a slight thud rather than a bang.

The second thing that I found immediately noticeable was the regenerative breaking, configurable at two levels. The more severe level works at -0.19m/s2 while the less severe brake energy recuperation level, which I preferred and would liken to a light press on the brake pedal operates at -0.11m/s2. While in the more aggressive stage of energy recuperation, one-pedal driving is achievable, however, I found myself having to reanalysis and adjust my driving style as I was approaching traffic lights and coming to a stop with 3/4 car lengths before actually reaching the white line.

10 miles or so into the driving experience I was still very open-minded about the MINI electric, some of the characteristics of the car are certainly different from a motor engine, however different isn’t necessarily a bad thing and it’s what MINI is all about!! Being electric, I was well aware of the instant torque and acceleration these electric cars have (my most anticipated category to test). Once my foot was pressed on the accelerator there was slight delay before the MINI took off, surprisingly similar delay to a vehicle with a combustion engine; I can only put this down to being deliberate as I’d imagine instant torque and acceleration could end up positioning you into the rear bumper of the car in front! – Which isn’t a good look for anyone.

After the initial delay the car took off in true MINI style, 30mph was effortless, 40 and 50mph? Piece of cake! As 60mph hit, I could start to feel the characteristics of an electric car show, characteristics that I have read about so much. While still torquey you could feel the power starting to plateau; I backed off reaching the speed limit. With a top speed of 93mph, you can tell this is a motor (pun intended) that doesn’t like to be pushed above 60mph. Turning off the slip road and onto the Great British B road, it was clear this MINI is most happy between 25-55mph with that iconic MINI personality oozing out between 30-50mph. Suddenly all these advancements in technology that have come together to create an environmentally friendly car could be used to have a lot of MINI fun! The instant mid-range torque with front-wheel drive pulling the MINI quicker out of a bend than anything I have experienced before, the regenerative braking system is allowing me to leave it late as possible, just dabbing the break before entering a corner and there it was, the smile that only a MINI can produce! I was reminded of the McLaren P1, a hypercar that moulded and manipulated hybrid technology to push the supercar further than ever before, using electric power to aid petrol in the pursuit of speed and efficiency. I felt like I was now in the same realms of the P1 using a technology originally designed for efficiency and conservation in the opposite manner and having a lot of fun in the process.

The electric MINI has an all-new traction control system which hasn’t been fitted to a car before. Unlike traditional traction control systems, which are reactive, this system with the torque of an electric car appears to be pre-emptive eliminating wheel spin. (Perfect for snow and wet weather I thought). During the presentation, it was even suggested to try and spin the wheels. During the driving experience, I pulled into a lay-by to take some photos. Upon leaving the lay-by, I chose the exit that was made up of loose stones, rumble and bits of tarmac. Waiting for a clear road the anticipation built, I put my foot to the floor, and sure enough, the MINI took off, no wheel spin, no struggle for traction. Absolutely nothing! All on a surface that Top Gear would call mildly moist. To say I was impressed was an understatement.

Halfway into the driving experience, I had to perform an unplanned emergency brake, exiting a corner I could see a pheasant on the verge of the road, they are often known for stepping out in front of cars, which indeed this one did. I’m sure MINI UK wouldn’t be very impressed with what might have resulted in, well something I’d rather not think about, the hazards came on, and we stopped safely, the pheasant crossed the road, and we carried on with our journey. The reason for sharing this is because, while there is no gearbox to downshift or engine braking to slow the vehicle, I was very impressed with just how sharp and responsive the brakes are. As the old racing saying goes, you’re only as quick as your brakes, and those brakes are indeed very sharp but smooth.

The interior of the MINI is very much kin to the current facelift F56 model with just a few changes to accommodate the options for electric vehicle settings such as the regenerative braking system toggle switch. The most significant change is the oval-shaped digital dash display above the steering wheel. Providing how much power is being used on the left-hand side, which I found very reminiscent of the power reserve gauge found on Rolls Royce. Over on the right side is the battery level, while situated in the middle of the screen is the driver information such as your current speed, the speed limit, time, outside temperature and mileage etc.

I was the last to arrive at the Thyme hotel after stopping to capture more photos and generally just enjoying my time spent with the car. Ali would be driving the return route, while I would be sat, passenger. During most of the drive, the MINI was more than happy to just sit at 40-50mph, just cruising along, without feeling like it wanted to be pushed harder. I feel this is something I haven’t seen from a MINI before, but I do understand the circumstances and market position of this car, it’s built for an environmentally conscious world. A world where we are all told we need to reduce our carbon footprint, reduce CO2 emissions, a world where ethical and moral environmental decisions can even define what milk we buy at the supermarket, so for that, I can forgive it.

My impression of the all Electric MINI Cooper SE:

The Cooper SE is MINI going back to the drawing board to what made it in the first place. The world changed, and the Mini was born under the concept to help everyone to get them where they needed to go in 1959. Fast forward over 60 years and that 4 wheel friend needs to change with the times so under the bonnet now is an electric motor and T Shaped battery delivering the watts for the environment fun at the wheel.

When I got into the driver’s seat seeing the digital dash to me symbolised the change to electric to me. Pressing on the yellow start button, you are greeted with the speedo lighting up and the unique sound that sounds like a space ship powering up to heading into light speed. The weird part is that nothing happens and there is no traditional noise of the engine, and there is complete silence like in a Rolls.

There is no traditional auto take off when you put into a drive which will be an unease as it doesn’t move forward till you press down on the throttle pedal. It’s effortless wafting from there as the ride is actually better than any other MINI as it floats along which helped with the smooth power delivery from the electric motor with instant torque. The pick of speed around town is perfect and made even easier when you have low regeneration on as you one pedal drive and when you head out on the B-Roads there is instant pull out of the corner as you head towards the straightaway.

The extra weight and ride height with the damping of the new shocks has made this MINI ride over the imperfections on the road zen-like as this is the effect it had on me when I drove it. This is a place that is perfect for the daily driver or 2nd car when you want time to yourself to think or just want to pop to do the shop or hit the gym. I say this as there is need to warm anything up as the electric motor is ready to go and you can precondition the car before driving so don’t have it deforest.

When the red mist descends on you, and you feel the need for speed, the 1.21 gigawatts come alive and you head to 88 mph leaving the road on fire. The Cooper SE instant torque is your best friend as it allows you dart in out of speed zones especially above 30 to 60 mph and that’s were SE shines the most as there isn’t much speed beyond 60 mph. That’s not of point this evolution of this MINI or any MINI it’s for fun around the corners, and the agility is what a MINI is built for. At full power, the MINI doesn’t sweat itself and lightning bolts ahead which left shocked as I couldn’t comprehend the speed as there was no noise and the numbers on the dash just increased which it made feel isolated. I think MINI should have artificially made some audible noise in the cabin to let you know your increasing velocity which could be switched on or off if you wanted it. As personally believe sound or feel is a key part of anything like how Apple give haptic feedback on iPhone or notification sounds which tell you something is happening and I would have loved MINI’s continue take on electric noise from the start-up procedure.

In the twisties, the Cooper SE handles well like a normal cooper but actually better as it has more planted feel along with and extra playfulness with it as it’s more adjustable around the corners with corrections because of its stability, traction control and instant torque. The MINI playfulness is there when you want it, and it’s especially funny leaving people behind when doing the traffic light Grand Prix or head out of town to the dual carriageway. The only bad part is when hit 60mph the SE doesn’t want to go any faster as it flatlines tell you NO NO NO NO you save the environment.

Regen braking is the best thing ever when you are pushing on as it dials out the need to touch the brake as when you in high regeneration it’s like an elephant has sat on the front end as scrubs the speed as expediential rate. It this scrubbing off that changes the game when your pressing on as you plan your lines better as your worrying about downshifting or braking noises so I was actually way more focused on my driving style and movements on the road. Imagine on the track and like how I race on the weekend at the electric go-kart track my driving improved and the electric MINI would amazing around the track as it leans gently when pushed but settles nicely and front end lifts as the instant torque straighten the role and fire out of the bend.

I genuinely believe if there was some back road fun or MINI run the Cooper SE would hold it’s own with petrol Cooper S and it wouldn’t pull away from it under normal speed limits. The Cooper SE is still a driver’s car so don’t be deceived by the electric credentials as deep down in still that MINI you feel in love it but only see on a part-time basis as there is a BIG but in the room. The range is something I couldn’t shake off as after some driving back to the MINI Factory from 94% charge I went down to 56% after mixed driving scenarios. This isn’t ideal but we combined Rob’s & my driving we would have just made it back with like something 15% which is something you should never do to a lithium-ion battery pack as 20% should be like lowest. If we remove the fun we had in learning the car we would have been there and back with around 35% battery left or more as what I was told by MINI the ECU learns you driving style and over time it adapts power delivery so technically speaking the range would actually improve if we did the same commute every day.

That outcome leads us down the path the MINI is a commuter car or 2nd car which hurts me as a MINI owner as to when I think of one it’s something to take on long road trips and enjoying MINI runs or shows as I should smiling every second I am in it instead I would be worrying over range anxiety. Sadly this leads to another problem which is a UK infrastructure is there aren’t any charging points I have seen besides in expensive car parks or shopping centres so the only option will be charging it overnight at home which probably results in a charge every night or every two days with my commutes.

The plucky brit fights back on the above points with business users or small commuters as there is zero road tax, 0% benefit in kind tax on a company car and it only takes £5 of electric to fully recharge it from 0%. So running costs are virtually zeroed down to nothing as there nothing to service, fluids etc. Its just the perishables being washer fluid, tyres and brake pads but brake pads would something you may never have to change under a lease or only once in 3 years. First had the experience I learnt from one of MINI UK team that she changed over to electric and over a course of 5 to 6 months she saved £1300 just by going which is an insane amount of money for anyone. I calculated with my own money and commute of around 60 miles I would save over £300 in a month and if I do that over 6 months I am £1800 up and the saving won’t stop there the Cooper SE is 6 insurance groups cheaper than equivalent Cooper S which another saving again for cheaper motoring.

Range aside I would still buy one as it’s finally a fun take on the electric car just like the reason why you buy an Apple product. You want the premium feel with substance, and that’s what MINI Cooper SE is a MINI electrified and yes a Nissan Leaf or Renault Zoe has a lot more range but who cares when your surround by a cheap interior which puts you to sleep. You buy a MINI for what it is a car that puts a smile on your face, and you’re wrapped in a cocoon a luxury with the world best owner group/club. I am sure over time as tech evolves the range will increase with smaller batteries with high Kwh which will probably come with the model facelift like what happened with BMW i3. However, your 4 wheel buddy keeps you in check as it creates a radius on where you can travel with your current range by creating a green circle on the sat nav screen. The only real competitor is small compact premium electric car it’s sister the BMW i3s or Honda E, which are the around the same price point with an equal premium feel and all-around performance.

Rob’s MINI Cooper SE Conclusion – Should you buy one?

My initial impression of the MINI was very remarkable; it’s an electric car that’s been packaged to tick a lot of the boxes while still maintaining the iconic DNA of the MINI character. With the lack of funds from the now ex CEO of BMW restricting the R&D department, the range of 140 miles may not be gargantuan compared to other electric vehicles currently on the market. However, it’s important to remember while lithium-ion battery technology hasn’t really moved forward in many years the software which manages the batteries is always progressing, becoming smarter and more efficient in battery management. I suspect with more development in software technology combined with improved batteries a second-generation electric MINI will rectify this shortcoming, however, for now, it’s important to remember that while 140 miles may seem insignificant, most people’s commute by car probably isn’t a 140 mile plus round trip, well not in the UK anyway. With 5000 sales predicted in the first year for this electrifying small car, I suspect most will be sold to customers who live and operate locally in their area. What I mean by this is people who commute maybe 20-30 miles to work, pop into town for shopping, which is most likely a few miles away from home and perhaps over to the next town/city for entertainment or anything that can’t be acquired locally.

So, to conclude, would I buy one? While I would miss the connectivity of man and machine, banging through the gears, upshifting or downshifting with a burble, pop and bang of a manual, I can’t ignore what this car brings to the table. It’s nippy and direct like a go-kart, quick – very quick, and oh so smooth, it’s an all-round pleasure to drive. I think I probably would buy one and use it for the exact reasons as stated, nipping into town and not having to worry about the engine warming up, commuting in and out of the city not worrying about clutch wear and tear etc, the list goes on. Then there are the cost savings, just over £5 to fully charge the car, instead of just over £60 for a full tank of petrol, no more oil costs – for those of you that burn through it. But would I swap my JCW for it? No, I wouldn’t, the MINI electric would become my daily car and that’s exactly where MINI UK has targeted this vehicle. A practical, environmentally conscious, cheap to run daily car. (With one hell of a community that comes with it).

Over the last few days, the electric MINI has made a lasting impression on myself, I just can’t stop thinking about it. The driving dynamics, the way it produces its power, the thought and technology behind the vehicle. I’ve seen a few F56 MINI’s on the road since and I keep asking myself, would I rather have an electric F56 or petrol? To my surprise and perhaps yours, I keep lusting back to the electric F56 and I think that’s where the MINI electric gets you. You just can’t ignore what it’s bringing not only to the world but also the MINI community. The original mini was created during the petrol crisis, to be economical and practical with new ideas that hadn’t been done before, like the transverse engine mounting and here we are again 60 years on, with MINI producing its answer to the climate crisis, it’s the start of something special, the next chapter in the brands history and as I said, that’s just something you can’t ignore.

Rob’s Review Score: 4/5

Ali’s Review Score: 3.5/5

The MINI Cooper SE keeps the fun alive in the MINI brand as it goes towards the electric future by evolving with voltage. The fun on 4 wheels continues on where it started back in 1959 with the style and quirkiness, but there is a limit to it with the range which comes as a premium package as either your 2nd car or my first car.

Thank you for the MINI UK Team for the hotel, food, hospitality and invite to this special event to mark the beginning of a new era for the iconic MINI brand.

Photo Credits & All the Apertures to Rob who took all the shots for this review

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The post Back To The Future: Electric MINI Cooper SE Review appeared first on JCW Adventures.

Here is a direct link to the website – JCW Adventures Shop

Official eBay Store – Official eBay Store

I have kept it simple with all three generations of BMW MINI Hatch with Model Designation vinyl decals all of which are available in Chilli Red, Jet Black, Thunder Grey & Ice White.

All 3 Generations of BMW MINI R50, R56 & F56 Decals

All these are available on the JCW ADVENTURES Store with free shipping within the UK and worldwide shipping available with a small additional cost.

Custom colours will be available at upon special requests at a small additional cost with all BMW MINI Generations & variants stickers coming soon.

Along with these all-new decals are the ever-popular R56 JCW & GP2 genuine carbon fibre exhaust tips as first seen on my JCW are back!!!!

This genuine carbon fibre exhausts tips can be easily installed within 5 minutes which simple tools and no drilling is required.

They are only suitable for R56 JCW, GP2 & R56 Cooper S with the JCW back box exhaust given they were developed on my JCW.

These exhaust tips have been designed for road use and show cars only either with a stock or sports catalytic convertor.

For those who have F-Series MINI JCW Pro Exhaust Remote, I have battery replacement available in the stores to get you back to disturbing the peace.

All shipping within the UK will be free, but international orders will incur a small shipping charge.

So if you have read the blog or followed me on social media here is a great way to support a free website that has been here to help any MINI owner around the world since 2012.

If you any questions free to message me at JCWADVS@GMAIL.COM or hit me up on the social media links at the bottom of the post.

Here is the link to JCW Adventures Shops – JCW Adventures Store & Official eBay Store

Thank you for the continued support, smiles, laughs, memories, hospitality, and MINI adventures.

Here’s to continued adventures wherever the open road leads to in 2020 and beyond.

As always it’s a MINI Adventure and try to keep up!!!

Ali R56 JCW Owner & JCW ADVENTURES Founder

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The Italian Job movie was a box office hit and catapulted the British icon even further into the stars with arguably one of the best cliff hanger endings of all time. The movie drove more sales for the mini in the dealership, whilst the swinging 60s was in full effect! It cemented this car as a legend on and off the silver screen. This momentum carried when it the rally and touring car racing series as it won the Monte Carlo rally and touring car races against mustangs.

This four-wheel legend created a cult following with the silver screen debut with the now infamous driving scenes and stunts such as driving through the sewer tunnels with the gold bars in the boot. The movie set the standard for stunt car scenes given manoeuvrability of the Mini’s short wheelbase as it darted through a shopping mall, over rooftops and down staircases.

Later in 2003, there was a Hollywood remake which was more of cheap knock off and fell into the category somethings should be left alone. If you have only watched the 2003 version, you need to back the old school version as it still holds up today 50 years on.

2019 marks 50 years of the movie and 60 years of the MINI! When MINI UK emails you saying you have been invited to a special screening you assemble the crew for Mr Bridger and head to MINI Plant Oxford.

Rob and I headed to the MINI factory for the event which is a homecoming for your MINIs. Queue the obligatory pictures for the occasion…

We headed inside the MINI factory for the screening of the movie. We were greeted by a MINI Cooper S with Polizia livery of the Italy police cars in the film which was an Alfa Romeo Giulia TI.

Greeted by the MINI Events team we heading into Italian movie mood set with all original cars from the movies all line up in their trios.

The 3 MINIs in the movie all arranged next to the stage.

On the other side were the fast support cars used in the film – Aston Martin DB4 Convertible, Lamborghini Miura & Jaguar E-Type

All of those vehicles have been hard to find as many exchange hands over the years and many of lost or hidden away. It was first for a lot them being all together since the movie in 1969. The Miura had only just been certified by Lamborghini in being the actual one in the film as it disappeared shortly after the movie wrapped up…

There was an exciting mix of people there from motoring journalist, well know Mini/MINI owners, cast members of the family and various MINI UK faces. Two people caught my eye and the first was Amy Shore, who is a fantastic photographer, so lens and apertures talk was had. Along with this, we spoke about her Mini aka Mayo and the BIG Mini adventure from Athens, Greece to Bristol, UK for the International MINI Meet 2019.

The second person being some who you might know well from EVO Magazine & Carfection Youtube channel and he is Henry Catchpole. I have liked the way he writes and talks about the essence of driving pleasure in the driving roads imaginable while giving us all the technical and fun stuff you want to know. Thank for keeping the fire in me and wanting to push myself future with the blog & YouTube channel.

We took our popcorn and ice cream for the movie and settled down for the movie as the MINI team introduced did a small introduction about the movie, the car and what it means to the brand after all these years.

We had a special message from Sir Michael Caine before the movie started as unfortunately he wasn’t able to make it.

As we know, the rest is history as I sit back and enjoyed the movie all over again like it was the first time…

When the movie ended the light came back and we welcomed by some of the original cast of the movie on stage for Q&A along with Matthew Field who wrote a book on the movie with all the information you would want to know including interviews with the directors, staff, cast and family members.

There were so many funny stories and memories when the movie created, and when it wrapped up, which was blessing and insight that not many will ever know.

For example, Sir Michael Cane didn’t know how to drive a car, and he learnt on the set of the movie in a Mini, so it has a special place in his heart.

Another was after the movie wrapped up one of the stunt drives drove the Mini all the way home to the UK from Italy which landed him in jail. One thing he totally forgot to remember a few things – it wasn’t insured, no tax, gold bars in the boot, never registered and was on fake plates not to forget he was only pulled over because he was speeding…

I will let the videos do the talking and enjoy some snippets from the night courtesy of MINI UK bringing everyone together for this special 50th Anniversary of the Italian Job.

Special Thank You to MINI UK for the invite and hosting the event and Rob with the epic picture of the 3 Minis all together : )

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Everyone has a happy memory with a MINI, whether it is from the past or the present day. The MINI is just a happy car which has brought smiles to millions over the world. All you have do is say the word MINI, and everyone just smiles! It’s happiness on wheels : )

This year mark’s MINI’s 60th Birthday of this British Icon. It was shown to the world on 26th August 1959 and has changed the world forever and define an era of the swinging 60s and created a car segment of a city car with the space-saving transverse engine, front wheel drive layout.

The icon defined its own story by bringing mobility to the masses, it conquered the racing scene by battling on track and the rally stage as it punched above its weight as John Cooper worked his magic. If that wasn’t enough it hit the silver screen as The Italian Job is car scenes become one the most significant car movies and car chase scenes of all time cementing the brand and little car in the history book and people’s hearts and minds across the world.

When MINI UK approached us for the 60th-anniversary showcase stories –  Rob gave his time for his story to be told and journey his MINI has taken him on.

After shooting from 9 am till 7 pm, it was condensed to 2 minutes which has made Rob’s MINI Story:

Robert’s MINI has been there for him at the darkest times of his life. A horrifying open-water incident left Robert unable to walk and – even worse for him – drive. He spent months in physical rehabilitation, thinking about his John Cooper Works MINI and would daydream of being on the road again. His will to drive, combined with help from his family and his best friend Ali, saw him through a painful period. Now, more than two years on, Robert is back behind the wheel, completing cross-country drives and making big plans for his MINI future.

This video only shows part of the bond Rob and me as the road isn’t always smooth, but we will always have each other back.

It was our bond to the MINI brand that brought us together back in 2014, but it has grown stronger over the years and adventures we have travelled on.

Heres to many more miles, adventures and stories to tell from many years from now…

Go follow Rob on Instagram: RocketR0b

Now that you listened to Rob’s story – What’s your MINI story? #MINI60 #MINIstories

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The post MINI Story: MINI Is Where The Heart Is appeared first on JCW Adventures.

With the rise of retro chic and hipsters around the world has changed since the rebirth of the MINI in 2001 which brought the swinging 60s back with it. BMW’s rebirth of the brand brought a new and old generation back to most fun you can have on four wheels. Some were buying it for the small compact size, low running and fuel economy but others just wanting a slice of the Italian job and MINI adventures. Which one are you?

Having been a MINI owner since 2008 with my first car & love my beloved R56 MINI ONE 1.4, it always brought a smile to my face through my university years. I wasn’t part of the MINI scene but I wanted to but didn’t know to get into it. I didn’t break my cherry until attending MINI UNITED 2009 with a friend who told me to buy a MINI. I guess he started this MINI obsession of mine. His first car was a mini which was brought for him when he was 12!!! I am sure you already know the rest with my MINI adventures in my JCW.

Going back to the title question are you a MINI owner or MINIac? There is a clear difference between to the two.

A MINI owner is someone who has a MINI as city car.

A MINIac is someone who owns a MINI to drive around town to have fun.

A MINI owner is someone who cares about fashion and looking good.

A MINIac is someone who buys a car to be different and to project their personality on.

A MINI owner doesn’t get excited seeing another MINI.

A MINIac is someone who checks out another mini and gives them a smile, the nod of approval, flash or does the MINI WAVE.

A MINI owner is someone who brought a small car.

A MINIac is someone who always parks next to another MINI.

A MINI owner sees their car as a depreciating asset.

A MINIac is sees their MINI as part of who they are and part of their family.

A MINI owner doesn’t know other owners.

A MINIac will know another just by looking a number plate or customisation/mods.

A MINI owner sees their car as object to go A to B.

A MINIac will go for a drive on the roads less taken.

A MINI owner takes a holiday.

A MINIac travels across cities, countries, states, board lines, continents to travel with other MINIac for a MINI Adventure.

A MINI owner will cut you up.

A MINIac will always give way to another MINI even if it’s out of their way.

A MINI owner has their family and friends.

MINI is the only car that comes with friends as standard (MINIacs 2nd family).

A MINI owner will just say they own a MINI.

A MINIac always steer the conversation towards talking about their MINI.

A MINI owner parks up and walks away.

A MINIac will turn around for those few seconds and just stare then take a million pictures.

A MINI owner spec their car for resale value.

A MINIac will spend, spend, spend on their car to give it a personality then spend more money on it taking it to the point that it is unsellable to a point – ahhhh custom mods.

There is a level above this MINIac level which is a CERTIFIED MINIAC who has changed how the MINI community for the better. Their personality has brought even more people together for our shared loves of all things MINI. They may have started a mod, club or a MINI Run which has benefited us all or even set the standard in modifying MINIs across the world which has sparked others to follow or improve on. I have met this few characters from being in the scene for going on 4 years. I am glad I have met them as they truly make the community what it is and I hope to meet many more across the world as my MINI adventures continue…

There is one major thing that bugs me now out on the road as 1st & 2nd Gen MINIs have become affordable to buy. To be precise it saddens me as it used to be the MINI driver was an aware driver of their driving and traffic around them. From what I have seen since the launch of the 3rd Gen MINI I have begun seeing MINIs in areas which I wouldn’t have normally seen them and these owners driving has begun giving us a bad name. The MINI has become one of those “small run around cars’ : (

I have travelled the across boards, countries, continents to do MINI events and nothing really ever changes but the people I meet. I love listening to their stories how this little car changed our lives as we know it. MINIacs across the world have put a smile on my face countless times with the passion and their individual MINIs. This is exactly what has made the MINI community a 2nd family to me with no boundaries. This passion makes us who we are and the reason why we are drawn to the brand and its lifestyle. I am yet to meet a MINIac who hasn’t changed my life in some shape or form.

As always try to keep it’s a MINI ADVENTURE.

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The post Are you a MINI owner or MINIAC? appeared first on JCW Adventures.

The post Building The Ultimate R56: Weekend & Road Warrior appeared first on JCW Adventures.

I didn’t think I would be here when I went into the dealers to spec my JCW. Little did I know my choices and persona would translate in my JCW being loved the world over. I was that kid who picked up car magazine and flicked through them, wondering one day I could own a car just like that. Modern MINI Magazine gave me that chance for my JCW to grace its cover for MINI owners and for some kid to look up to my JCW.

I have always said that my JCW changed my life and it did, when I showed you ‘My MINI Story’ late 2013. The road to this moment was hard given the pain in 2011 but it was a blessing in disguise with my JCW keeping me going. Along the way the JCW has changed and so have I with the people I have met across the world. I still scratch my head on how a car can bring so many different people together because of their love of MINI.

It’s soon coming to 3 years since I drove my JCW out of the showroom and BT11 WRK was brought into the world, so I wanted to do something special to mark this occasion. I contacted MINI Modern Magazine about having a feature and asked for some tips on becoming a automotive journalist and Sarah didn’t shy away from helping me. I truly appreciated her advice and took it forward be contacting various local newspapers and media outlets for  a freelance or voluntary roles but sadly I was unsuccessful so I carried on with my website.

Some people have mocked it, I have told my big organisations my publication isn’t big enough to allow me access to events and I have been called a ‘talented amateur’. From all those negatives all it takes for a single person to come over to me at show just say I have read the blog and follow you on instagram for it all to vanish. It’s the passion within me that drives me, the loyal supporters and that random person saying ‘Nice car’.

People have asked why the batman references in my online presence and JCW?  Because Bruce Wayne lost everything dear to him and all that money he couldn’t do anything. Yet through his pain, suffering and angry he was shaped into The Batman a character which I have watched from my childhood to the present day. The caped crusader has battled with his inner demons and his direct opposite The Joker whilst sticking to his strict code of not killing and doing the right thing. I could do on for days I how draw upon this fictional character but I secretly wished I was a billionaire philanthropist and had my own Alfred.

Will you wanting the Batpod, Sir? In the Middle of the day Alfred not very subtle. The JCW then?

You can read into as much as you want about me or Batman but the ‘Dark Knight’ nickname wasn’t given to my JCW by me but instead of other MINI owners after meeting me. But you will have to wait a bit longer for me tell you the meaning behind my Instagram name of D4rkhorse…

The email came through in the middle of the 2013 nearing the end of the show season, Modern MINI Magazine wanted to do a feature on my JCW and wanted arrange a date for the shoot. I was contacted by James Wallace aka Jimbo a freelance car photographer who is outright car nut!

Here is his story

I’ve loved cars and everything with wheels ever since I could bury Micro Machines and Matchbox cars in my Mum and Dad’s garden as a littl’un.

That genuine passion and enthusiasm for everything automotive miraculously turned into a job as the Deputy Editor for VW GOLF+ magazine back in 2003. Fast forward to 2010 and the decision to try my hand as a freelance snapper and writer has seen my work published in Performance VW, Volksworld, Camper + Bus, Miniworld, Classic American, VW GOLF+, Total BMW, Fast Car, Performance BMW. Redline and Retro Car magazines.

Primarily it’s a passion before a job and the people who have spent months, years, even decades building their dream machines deserve someone who cares about the results as much as they do

Top Bloke!

For more info here is his website

You see what I mean that he loves his car and being around them so you can imagine the time he had around me and the JCW.

With a time and date set, I got my Mr Miyagi on for my JCW’s big day

The next day James arrived at my house so we could travel together to my photo shoot location of choice and as luck would have it rained : /

With introductions done and the JCW met we rolled out together to Cannock Chase the location of the photo shoot. The CQuartz  coating and CarPro Reload were working their magic at motorway speeds as the beading was insane as the JCW was self drying. By the time we got the Cannock Chase all I had to do was to blast the JCW with a quick detailer and she was ready to go.

You might be wondering what Cannock Chase is?

Cannock Chase is located between Cannock, Lichfield, Rugeley and Stafford. It comprises a mixture of natural deciduous woodland, coniferous plantations, open heathland and the remains of early industry, such as coal mining. In short its like a national park/area of beauty but it happens to have long straights and some twisites which was perfect for my shoot as I didn’t want the generic parking lot or graffiti wall backdrop as I am NOT NORMAL.

I found a spot which was perfect because it allowed plenty of space for different shooting angles, backdrops and rolling shots.

I parked up her up to the backdrop of the forest and clear blue skies

Jimbo whipped out his camera gear and began working his magic whilst all the walkers, cyclists and drivers buzzing around came to a stand still as they saw the flashes and peperami action (that’s not a typo – Ali G movie reference).

We had a great little chats about how I went about choosing a JCW after I test drove a lot of cars before settling on ordering a JCW

Jimbo had a few cheeky stories to tell which brought a smirk to my face as he said the birds love the MINI

I dived into the history of my JCW, MINI UNITED 2012, national geographic shoot and all the people have met along the way

The feature on my JCW is for everyone to see how my MINI changed my life and that is more than the some of its parts while being a personification of my personality.

What I loved about working with James was hee understood that every car has past and every owner has a story.

He wasn’t mucking about when he was taking SHOTS as he began to lying down on wet mud???

I was like what are you doing mate?  I can great a shot from down here!

You sure James? Yeah I am fine mate

What about your clothes? Doesn’t matter

A real photographer and car lover going above and beyond his duty

As we began getting some great shots it started to rain so everything got packed away but we were back at again it as it was short sharp showers but it was a constant battle as mother nature had other ideas. I was constantly drying down my JCW whilst James was trying not to get the gear all soaked whilst flashing away with the camera.

After all the still shots were done we went for some rolling shots as I wanted to show off the DRLs given the lack of MINIs having them plus I knew a nice little section of road with a banking corner which would look amazing. Yet again it rained and whilst James sat amongst the grass, mud, stones and drive by traffic near the road like a ninja and took shots of the JCW coming full throttle out the bends and driving past him as I went the other way for multiple runs.

As the batteries and memory cards filled up or ran of juice the shoot came to an end with me only seeing a few images on the little camera back screen I knew I had to wait till the next issue of Modern MINI Magazine before I would see them which made the drive home gut wrenching.

As the days rolled past and last event of the MINI show came to a close and winter drew in everything was quiet expect my inbox when James emailed back saying the write up needs to done to fill the pages of my feature. I filled in the questionnaire and sent it back which was returned with a phone call from James saying you couldn’t have it even more passionate if you hand the keys to me for a week. I am just happy to share my story with everyone and I hope everyone enjoys reading as I am only a newcomer to the MINI scene since the summer of 2012.

To mark the 2nd year anniversary of jcwadventures.com I will be flying over to the states to do MINI TAKES THE STATES but I will be bringing along two members of The Fast Five (Christine and Phil) so look out for the infamous black and English accent. I am riding shotgun with LilCoopr aka Christina in her Cooper S Convertible ‘Stell4’ and I couldn’t think of a better person do the trip with!!! She is another MINIac who has deep-rooted passion for the brand and our MINIs are very much personification of our individuality.

Why not ship over The Misses? I looked into it and it came to £3,000 which is too much consider without me selling a kidney

I am most looking forward to meeting alot of my US Instagram followers and supporters of the website

Back to the flashing lights! My JCW will be gracing the cover Modern MINI Magazine on this month – 28.03.14

It is available to buy in all good news stand and news agents in the UK

For the digital techies and international readers it is available to digital download on the App store & Android by searching for – Modern MINI Magazine

I would like to give a special thank you to Sarah of Modern MINI Magazine for publishing my JCW and being great person to talk for advice and all things MINI.

James thanks you for making The Misses look sexy and putting up with the rubbish weather. I don’t know how you put with me for a few hours but I am truly thankful for the shots and  immortalising my JCW to pages of Modern MINI Magazine.

www.modernmini.co.uk

Next Blog Post: F56, GP2 & R56 model range reviews 

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The post Behind the Lens: Modern MINI Magazine Photoshoot appeared first on JCW Adventures.

Whilst they were out hooning on the rear wheel drive BMWs my half of the group was learning about how continental develops a tyre from the compound to the thread pattern and all the research and development that goes into the process.

I asked the question – What if I or tyre company copied your thread pattern would it perform the same or better?

Reply – Even if you copied the exact thread pattern, the compound of our tyres is very different and that’s where our extensive R&D developments goes into

I have always been a preacher about buying good tyres and brakes as these are the only things that keep you on the road. People forget that contact patch between you and the road is only the size of your palm. It was our time for some rear wheel drive shenanigans in the white BMW 1 series and they were fitted with cheap import tyres. I mounted my Go Pro 3 to the back window to showcase my driffftttoooo ability whilst on the wet handling track. I jumped into the driver’s seat unaccompanied and put the paddle shift gearbox and car into sport mode.

We followed a pace car upfront with radios on board which talked us through the lap and how to push the tyres to the limit to feel the difference. To be honest I was being a right yob with me hanging the back out on every corner for a continuous drift.

It was laughable how easy it was to induce over-steer all the time with the cheap import tyre being very loose in the wet handling track and gave no confidence what’s so ever when you pushed the car. When you reached the limit of grip you were met with snap on over-steer which is fun on track but deadly on public road.

All these characteristics are stupidly fun on a closed track which makes you wonder why doesn’t someone offer a track day like this?? Joking aside these handling threats of the tyre would deadly on the open road. Still grinning from ear to ear fun, I suction mounted the Go Pro to the grey BMW fitted with ContiPremium Contact 5s to see how Continental’s tyres could fare better even with the worsening wet track. Into the first corner the difference was evident with the BMW front end would not wash into under-steer and the rear end refused to swing out as I mashed the loud pedal middle corner.

I was being a right lunatic to get the BMW to over-steer as I had to go specifically out of my way to do it. The difference with the Conti tyre was it told you exactly before it let go whilst being controllable.

[youtube=http://youtu.be/wreXP1uB9WY]

It was a no contest between which tyre you would buy.

Tread carefully was the next station which was designed to show you how much a difference tread difference can make

We would drive 3 VW Golfs with different levels of thread – 8, 3 and 1.6 mm at different speed starting at 60 kph (37 mph) then 70 kph (43 mph) and finally 80 kph (50mph) to see the difference. My Group elected to learn the theory behind changing your tyres at 3 mm opposed towards the legal limit of 1.6 mm. 1.6mm is the legal limit for tread depth on tyres. But tests show that at this tread depth, tyres are only performing at 55% efficiency, meaning stopping distances are greatly increased in wet conditions.

We learnt about how the efficiency of the tyres decrease when the thread reduces and about the structure of the compound, side walls and thread pattern make a difference. With the theory dusted off we head towards the car to which there were two people per vehicle because it made easier to switch seats.

I was joined by the motoring journalist queen aka Geraldine Herbert the founder of wheelsforwomen.ie  who has written for newspapers, magazines and websites including the Sunday Independent. It was an honour having her on-board and we had some good discussions about the event and wider car industry. My driving skills had to be at their A game with her on board so no pressure at all. We entered the first car which had 3 mm thread and went around the oval track building our speed up to 60 kph and keeping it steady at that speed whilst we drove through about a 2 metre long patch of standing water. At 50 kph there was a slight slow down in the vehicle but nothing that really phased the tyre.

Next we built up 60 kph and felt the car slow as you noticed the tyre was trying to move the water but with a slight struggle. Once again we ramped up the speed and noticed the car twitched by it moving it to the right which was nothing uncontrollable. It sort of felt like torque steer with reduction of speed of about 5 kph. The Golf fitted with 8 mm tyres was up next so everything was going be fine due to the thread depth and it was true. The car never struggled with the standing water at the different speed and the only teeny tiny difference that was felt at 80 kph even then we were pointed straight ahead.

Next up where the 1.6mm tyres and me and Geraldine gave each other that look, were we we going slide into the barrier plus she elected me to do it first such a Lady. Sadly at this time we were being rushed as our allocated time at this station was coming to a close.

Therefore we dashed into the other Golf and began our first run at 60kph and as soon as we went through the stand water the car aquaplane. It felt like the car was being pushed sideways I was temporary stunned by how the car acted but my reflexes kicked in with me adding opposite lock to steer the car through the cones. We looked at each after it happened and we were like ‘WOW, are you OK?’ Then the radio crackled again saying we need to speed things up so we were moving up the speed to 80kph.

You should have seen my face, WHAT!! An extra 20kph (17mph) we are going hit the barrier at this speed or I am going spin it front of all these motoring journalists. Great I am gone tonight’s topic of laughter at the bar.

We went back around again and I held the speed steady at 80kph and in the corner of my eye I saw Geraldine clutch the door pull so I told her ‘I got this and you got your seat belt on right?’.

Around the bend we went on to the stand water and everything went into slow motion with the car being violently throw to the right like we had just been T Boned by another car.

My fingers buried into the contours of the steering wheel as reacted to the aquaplaning and I meet it with an equal force to correct the car to stop it under steering into the barrier. I caught the car and the grip returned the dry asphalt so I powered it out the cones in front of me. I looked over and said ‘I genuinely thought we were going hit that barrier as didn’t think the front tyres would regain grip’. We were in slight state of shock with the adrenaline still pumping for a while after that encounter. The message was clear from this test – change your tyres before or on 3mm thread is only left

We have been drilled in by the theory test and motoring laws saying 1.6 mm is legal limit. Therefore we have been miss education to change the tyres when its close to legal limit which is completely wrong thing to do. Next up is all the track time madness I have spoken and promised everyone by telling them to wait for Part 2.

We arrived at the next station called ‘Driving Performance For You’ where there was a line up of some tasty cars – 2 x Audi RS3, A Class AMG, BMW 335i, Porsche Panamera GTS and a Porsche GT3 RS.

I looked at these tasty motors and thought – ‘Oh yes time for some track action and they are not my tyres’. Someone had to come over to shuffle us into the white tent for the briefing about the performance tyres made by Continental. We were shown the Sport Contact 5s, Sports Contact 5P and Conti Force Conacts with the 5s being for a fast car/road tyre and the 5P being more of a lower profile track orientated tyre which can be used on daily driver but wont grip as much in the wet as the 5s given the thread pattern and compound.

The Force Contacts are a track bias tyre will with them being lower profile and the compound being suited to a dry track but they were still street legal if you wish to drive around on them a daily basis. It was ironic as this was the dry handling track but it was wet and still pouring down. So I wasn’t sure how to handle the cars on a wet track with ridiculous amounts horsepower on a track I didn’t know.

First up was the Audi RS3 and strangely Geraldine came with again after the ride in the Golf, I guess my recovery of the aquaplaning impressed her.

I mounted the Go Pro to the back window and enter the larger leather bucket Seats of the RS3 which were very comfortable. I fiddled with the seat and adjusted the autobox to sport and put the car into sport mode and eyed up the line the track and listened to the instructions coming from the walkie-talkie.

This was my 1st time in the RS model and everyone raves on about them but I honestly don’t like Audi’s at all! I actually loathe them with them all looking the same with them just being a longer and shorter of themselves with their boring driving feel and input. I wanted to keep objective so I set aside the my dislike and I hunkered down in the RS seats and gave the throttle a few blips to hear the exhaust note which was nice. Off we went following the lead car a black BMW 335i and mashed the gas pedal as soon as we left the lay-by area with the four-wheel drive hooking up and all 335 ponies from the forced induction 2.5 litre TFSI engine propelling us forward with a jot to push us back in our seats.

I went into the first bend all cautious as I wasn’t sure about the how the car would handle in the wet but I soon realised that you didn’t have to do anything but press the loud pedal as the car did everything and all that was left was for you point the thing in the right direction.

The Audi was quick with it reaching 140kph on the back straight but my god was it boring it drive with no feedback to the wheel at all. I could have driven it one hand and texted my mates to telling them what I was doing and take a few snaps whilst I was there. I left the AUDI unimpressed by its driving feel and here is my summary of the car – If you want a point to point fast car the RS3 is perfect, actually it should be THE getaway car of choice if you want to rob a bank. If your after driving involvement, road feel and laughs then don’t buy it, sure it fast but it’s so uninvolving I would rather go shopping for door mats. Into the much incapacitated A Class AMG which had nice subtle menacing look from the outside and was very tasty inside. SLS AMG air vents and carbon fibre look dashboard with some nice subtle red accents around the cabin. So far good, I looked to the console to turn everything on to get it to sport mode which took a little longer than I like but minor grumble given the performance on tap.

Now I would have another 4 wheel drive vehicle but with 2 litre four banger developing a laugh out loud 355 BHP. Again this would be my first time driving the hot version of normal Mercedes as I had only driven the C Class CDI C220 a while back.

I have always wanted to drive an AMG given how loony the division is with copious amount of power they extract from engines and the noise they make which sound like the heavens have opened up and THOR has arrived. Again I blipped the throttle to her what she sound like but it was slightly muted but I wasn’t sure about the reason given how new the car was but meh.

Off we went around the track again with me being directly behind the lead car so I could push on more as we would setting the pace of the other cars behind us. Straight way I felt the AMG feel more eager to rev and pull harder in the corner but I didn’t like the driving feedback but it was significantly better than the RS3.

I had a lot more fun the AMG with the feedback and it was more playful with it reaching 147kph on the straight way which made me wonder what it would be like in the dry.

I left the AMG impressed as this was their first proper attempt at hot hatch and I would definitely recommended one over the RS3 as its faster and roughly the same price – WIN WIN!! Next up was the blacked out BMW 335i which looked menacing as hell and me being brought up in BMW and owning a 323i for a while I looked forward to testing performance variant of the 3 series. Into the 335i I went with a big grin as I knew some sideways drift action would have happening with the rear wheel drive power.

It’s very dangerous coming out four-wheel drive vehicles as you got used to giving the car full throttle mid corner. This pre mindset was evident in the first corner where I pressed the loud pedal mid corner resulting in the back-end of the BMW going into 60 degree slide then finally me realise and catching the slide with opposite lock and powering out of the corner.

I looked over to Geraldine and said ‘Do not worry I will make sure we will stay on track as I know you have two kids but I will be pushing it hard’. I proceed to get use to the 335i making sure I was getting the most out of the turbocharged 3 litre in-line six developing 300bhp and 300lb ft of torque to tail happy rear wheels. It was quite tricky getting used it due to the conditions of the track and the seat time I would have.

This is what made it way more fun than the Merc or Audi as you the driver had to work learn the cars behaviour and find the levels of grip instead of the electronic nannies and clever four-wheel drive vectoring power behind the senses.

The BMW was the quickest on the back straight with an indicated 160kph but the brake pedal feel was worrying as the consecutive pounding was showing in my time around in the track. Minor grumble as this isn’t a fully fledged skunk works of the M division unlike the RS & AMG as I am sure the forthcoming M3 would have power slided to victory.

Time was now running short and I had to make a tough decision drive the Panamera GTS with Ferocious V8 putting out 430BHP or jump into the Porsche GT3 RS for some hot laps.

By the time I had decided to take the GTS some had nicked it from me so GT3 RS was awaiting me to dawn a racing helmet and to climb through the full roll cage to hunker down into the racing bucket seats. I gave the thumbs ups to the driver who actually worked for Continental on tyre development. Off we went and hell he could drive with his braking and feeding the power in and never letting the power being wasted even in the wet. Not once did miss a clipping point or apex and he drove the GT3 RS like the track was dry. The GT3 RS was fitted with Conti Force Contacts.

I was told later he is very fuss about driving as drove the track first early in the morning and adjusted his tyre pressures then went back out again. When it rained during the day he took it out again to find the better line in the wet and adjusted the pressures again. I got told by the guys that Mercedes C63 AMG would have been out today buy didn’t due to the rain as it would be too lairy, plus the other day one person decided to leave the track in one and go off-road. Typical I have always wanted to drive one as well.

The next experience was up next called ‘Chill Out’ but I didn’t think we would be literary chilling out as we were taken into the where the winter tyres were tested. It was freezing in the testing area and we were told now how a winter tyre were made.

The silica is key to grip in temperatures below 7 degrees due to the properties of it being a soft compound and the tyres have snipes/groves to increase traction on snow or ice. Continental had a novel way of showing you the difference between a normal tyre and winter tyre with slippers.

Yes slippers!!! They had made slippers out of a tyre which looked amazing when you flipped them over – 1 slipper was a normal tyre and the other made of a winter tyre We all rolled out to get our slippers on to the long sheet of ice and you felt straight away when you stepped on the ice with one leg sliding forward to rip your trouser and your other leg staying put like it was glued to the floor.

My left leg had a mind of its own on the ice and it was good thing I wore slightly baggy chinos at the time.

The day was coming to close at 5 and we were all called back to the press room where last parts of the brand experience would happen. We would sit down and listen about Continentals history and developments/partnerships through a presentations.

We learnt how Adidas approached Continental for their expertise to develop a outsole with a strong grip ideal for trail and outdoor sports shoes. The first range of trainers with Continental technology was the Adidas SuperNova Riot 3, featuring Continental’s Traction Compound Technology – which allows confident grip on all surfaces and conditions. Continental has strong brand relations within football industry with sponsoring the UEFA Euro 2012, FIFA World cups and Champions league.

Now most recently with St. George’s Park, the national football centre in Burton-upon-Trent. The new partnership will see Continental Tyres become an ‘Official Supporting Partner’ of St. George’s Park.

With a focus on preparation for driving performance, the Continental presence at the National Football Centre will include a 60-metre indoor ‘high performance’ running track, a goalkeeping ‘stopping zone’ and a bespoke ContiWarmUp area to enable all players to prepare before a game or training session. I have personally visted the grounds and I was genuinely astonished how gigantic they place. You have to drive down a short road network and then it all opens out to Hilton Hotel and the training grounds with 5 areas of parking. Continental has been a partner in excellence with Mercedes-Benz World Brooklands by supplying them with tyres for both on and off-road driving experiences. The Brooklands site offers an interactive world full of the passion, heritage, values and innovation of the Mercedes-Benz brand. These include a wet circle and a 10-acre off-road course, a high-speed handling circuit and acceleration and braking strips.

I missed the chance at going to an event there as I have friend who is driving instructor who works at the Brooklands site. He messages me every now and then with pictures of what he will be driving today!!! I got jealous when he said I have driven the Black series AMG C Class and we have the SLS AMG Black series coming soon to which I will be putting it through it paces! : O

The final presentation of the day was about all the compounds that go into a tyre and how some are natural, synthetics, oils, rubber and how various elements are added to give the tyre compound different properties.

A tyre is a complex high-tech product made up of up to 15 different compounds.  Each compound contains 20 ingredients and up to 30 different components. The tyre is not just made up of rubber compounds; engineers also employ reinforcing materials such as nylon, polyester, rayon and steel to perform varying functions depending on where they are used. For example, nylon and steel cords are used under the tread to restrict tyre distortion and minimise heat build-up in the tyre, whereas rayon or polyester is used in the plies to withstand the inflation pressure of the tyre.

The brand experience was over so we headed back into the coach and head back to the hotel to freshen up for all us to head back out to have dinner together. We went to a local restaurant in Hanover which was couple of kms away which was nice and where I spoke with other motoring journalist about the experience we had during the day and the other events they had been to. It was a pleasant way to end the antics over the 3 days. Thank you Continental for inviting me and I had good laugh on the experience and went away with in-depth knowledge about tyres and stories to tell for years to come. But don’t worry Germany I will be coming back soon….

Next Blog Post: Cooper S Roadster Review 

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The post Continental Brand Experience: The Contidrom Part 2 appeared first on JCW Adventures.

At Top Gear Live 2012 I went over to the Go Pro Booth and looked into purchasing one but I was told not to get one given the requirements I was asking for as the Go Pro 3 would be coming and would be significantly better than the current version camera and function wise.

So waited for until the Go Pro 3 was unveiled. I wanted to buy was the Black edition due to the fact you get a better camera than the base model, better low light performance and the WiFi remote is included as well.

Having brought my Go Pro 3: Black edition for £359.99 then spending a further £40 on a Class 10 64GB Sandisk Micro SD Memory Card and another £29.99 on the Suction mount.

Remember to only purchase a Class 10 memory card only as the processing/writing data of the card needs to be fast

If look at the price of all the kit together at £429.98 its a small fortune before you have started filming but the quality of the product itself is fantastic and robust.

Whats in the Box?

You can start filming from the box but its recommended that you update the camera online as Go Pro update various features in and improve the video/camera processing. The GoPro website will guide you the process and follow all the steps one by one exactly and you wont have any problems then.

If you have got an iPhone or Andriod you should download the Go Pro App as its FREE

The GoPro App lets you control your GoPro camera remotely using a smart phone or tablet. Features include full control of all camera settings, video preview to your smart phone or tablet for easy shot framing and more.

The only real requirements to use the App is that you must have either Go Pro HD Hero 2 or Hero 3 as WiFi connection is need to connect the App and device.

After using the App its a useful thing to have as it allows you to see what Go Pro is seeing so you can adjust the camera according or just shoot on the fly when you want to capture a moment. Its appreciated the Go Pro offer the App for FREE as they could have easily charged for it.

The App does exactly what its says with you being able to click to shot and change the setting as you wish without the need to touch your camera which brings on the point why I wanted to have the remote? Given my shooting would be done whilst I driving I would need a quick and legal way of activating the camera. You can attach the remote to your keys so all I would needed to do is press the button and recording would be begin opposed to unlocking my phone, launching the App then clicking record.

The only negative thing I can say about the App there is about an 5 seconds delay in what the camera see to what you see on the screen of your device. I hope down the line this gets improved or some cool features are added to the App.

Whilst your on their website you can download for Free GoPro Cineform Studio which is a very easy to use editing software to create professional quality clips from your GoPro content or prep for more advanced editing with Adobe Premiere Final Cut Pro, Sony Vegas, etc. From simple adjustments like slow motion control and clip trimming to more advanced color correction and 3D editing, CineForm Studio is a powerful tool for all GoPro content creators.

CineForm Studio features:

• Keep your GoPro cameras and BacPacs current with the latest software updates
• Easy playback and trimming of your GoPro video clips
• Frame rate adjustment for slow motion
• Quickly create videos from your timelapse photos
• Convert GoPro H.264 MP4s into editor friendly CineForm AVI or MOV files
• Apply real-time, non-destructive image adjustments that don’t require re-rendering as changes are applied.
• Adjust video white balance, exposure, contrast, saturation and framing
• Support for ProTune and push-button color presets
• Process and adjust videos captured with the GoPro’s 3D HERO System
• Export MP4/MOV for web sharing, including pre-formatted 3D content for YouTube and 3D TVs
• Preview 3D content on supported 3D monitors and TVs
• Support for other H.264 MOV/MP4 sources such as Canon and Nikon DSLRs

This is the software I used to edit my 1st GoPro video – Dark MINI Rises

I tried to use Final Cut Pro but my laptop is not up to task given it doesn’t have the processing power and is 5 years old now. Cineform studio made life so much more whilst i was editing as it guides you in what to do to edit the video with 2 stage process with trimming the video and added effect next. Simples

The Suction Mount for the camera is unreal as it’s quite frightening suction mount £400 camera and excepting it that it will be still be there after some Hoonage.

It comes included with short extension arm allows for ultra compact mounting for engineered to provide a broad range of motion and stability. GoPro says its been proven to stay on at 150+ mph which is re insuring given how expensive the camera is.

Now that we have reviewed how its easy to utilise by itself, accessories and what you get for your money. Its time to talk about the pros and cons of the camera.

The Pros

• The video camera quality is amazing sharp with rich colour contrast and depth
• Video quality can be easily changed ranging from 720p to 4K resolution with option change the frame rate to 15,30 and 60 frames.
• The lens width can be easily changed
• The Camera is amazing at 12 Mega-pixels and can take 30 Fps Burst shots on command
• Time Lapse pictures can be used to create a Time Lapse Video
• It’s the perfect size camera and barely weighs anything
• Built in Wifi and waterproof
• Battery life amazing for such a small device
• The accessories are vast with mounts, cases, lenses, filters and after market custom skins
• Free App and Editing software is available

The Cons

• It’s Expensive to buy and so are the accessories
• It was confusing to open the plastic case as there are no real instructions
• If you not familiar with the GoPro is very confusing at the start with setup and learning how to set everything but a quick jump to Youtube and GoPro website solves that
• Audio quality was poor when mounted outside my JCW with very little exhaust note however this can be fixed with external microphone which is more £££
• Why isn’t there a plug to adapter included to charge the camera quicker?
• The App Video delay lag
• Video editing is best done on Mac or High End PC

Review Score: 8/10

Go Pro is something that all fanatics of any sports needs to have to capture you in your moment. The level of entry is high but is well worth the asking price given the quality of the camera, endless accessories and build quality.

Go Pro 3 is an amazing piece of kit and you are the limiting factor with your editing skills and how adventurous you are….

Next Blog Post: GP 2 Review

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