Rest In Peace, Kevin Ash

Veteran British motorcycle journalist Kevin Ash was killed Tuesday in a crash in South Africa at the press launch for the 2013 BMW R1200GS.

Cycle World Editor-in-Chief Mark Hoyer arrived on the scene approximately 10 minutes after the accident. He was able to aid a second downed rider, who was not immediately identified.

“I worked on him with another American who also had some medical training,” said Hoyer, “and then I assisted the medics. He looked like he was going to be okay. He appeared to have suffered a broken humerus and/or shoulder. We put him on a backboard when the medics arrived about 30-40 minutes after I contacted the second patient.”

Hoyer reported they were riding on a straight, dusty, gravel road.

BMW made the following statement: “It is with deep regret that BMW Motorrad confirms the fatal injury of Kevin Ash in a motorcycle accident during a launch event in South Africa. The accident happened to the north of a town called George, 250 kilometers east of Cape Town. Out of respect for Kevin's family and friends, no further information is being made available at this time.”

Ash had worked as a motorcycle journalist since 1990. He was involved in the launch of Fast Bikes and later worked for Motor Cycle News. In addition to his extensive work as a freelance writer, Ash published several books, including BMW Motorcycles: The Evolution of Excellence and Ducati People: Looking into the Lives of the Men and Women Behind This Legendary Marque.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.