February 2008

KZN • February 2008

Road • Off-Road • Water

FREE copy

REVIEWS

Ducati 1100 Hypermotard Triumph Speed Tripple 1050

NEWS

Aprilia Durban’s New Shop Victory Motorcycles, SC Criterion Yamaha, SC

OTHER Who to Buzz

Target Fixation Bikes on the Dish Rider Training 2008 Fireblade 2008 R1200GS God’s Half Page Bike Insurance GPS, is it worth it?

Pre-owned Bikes

In UMHLANGA ROCKS (behind Gateway)

R 109 900 R 114 995

with ABS

E0108/10006/1695

inclucing a FREE Arai Chaser Helmet

Introducing the Rocket III Touring R 185 999 Tel: 031 566 3024 • Fax: 031 566 5177 10 Meridian Drive, Umhlanga Ridge lisa@eastcoastkawasaki.co.za

E. & O.E.

7 Tetford Circle, Umhlanga RIDGE (Just past Hirsch's, on the left)

Tel: 031 566 7411 FISHING CONVERSIONS AVAILABLE

YZF R6

YZF R1

THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS: PRICE & PRODUCT BE TEMPTED, IT'S GOOD FOR YOU ...

CALL NOW AND FIND OUT WHAT LOW PRICE TRULY IS HUGE SELECTION ON GEAR IN-STORE

HENRY 084 567 8115 i MARK 084 353 2713

a word from the editor With the New Year a reality and January a thing of the past, it is time to get back into the swing of things ... work, rides, jols, and rallies and dare I say it ... accidents. Yip all good things come to an end; people and motorcycles.

With the passing of Lenny, Dave, Ryno and those who survived like Tony, Cedric to mention only a few has to get you thinking: WHAT’S GOING ON?!

The answer to this question is simple: WHAT ARE YOU DOING ABOUT IT? In this issue we make mention of a few bike shops on the South Coast, John from Gear-Up gives us some insight whether it is worth using a GPS and I shed some light on Target Fixation and how it can work for you. We went to the unveiling of the all new 2008 “Blade”, visited the brand new Aprilia shop at Gateway and checked-out the official opening of Ryder Motorrad in Hillcrest.

We also had a look at the new Wheelie Machine which will become a permanent feature in KZN; look-out for my write-up in the next issue where I’ll be spending some time popping wheelies and give you feedback as to what you can expect when you try your hand. I’ve taken the Ducati Hypermotard 1100 for a squeeze and flipped the Triumph Speed Tripple 1050 around a few bends just to tempt your taste-buds. You will notice loads of specials going on at dealers, now is the time to get out and buy that bike you always wanted or maybe you want to treat your better half to some gear; why not, she deserves it don’t you think.

Bike Talk M.R.A., appointed by Honda SA and Harley-Davidson, accredited by SAIDI and indorsed

by OutSurance and Quicksure, has really taken off with course dates available until end of May, have a look at the Calendar or visit www.biketalk.co.za for a complete layout of all the courses we have to offer.

So my fellow bikers I pray you have a Blessed Year en dat julle veilig sal wees op die pad, kyk op en deur die draaie en ry jou eie pas. Ja ek is ook Afrikaans, hoekom moet alles in Engels wees?

Lekker lees verder, hoop julle geniet dit ...

Signature

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If paying by Cheque please make payable to BIKE TALK and along with this form post to PO Box 902, Amanzimtoti, 4125.

BANK DETAILS: ABSA - Amanzimtoti, Acc No: 4069657294, Branch: 632005 4

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CONTENTS

BIKE TALK EDITOR Hein Jonker

REGULARS A word from the Editor Subscription Form

PAGE 4 4

DESIGN & LAYOUT Hein Jonker

Keeping it Up

6

ADVERTISING SALES Carin Jonker

What’s on Calendar

ACCOUNTS Carin Jonker

In the News

PRINTING Colour Planet

Bikes on the Dish

CONTRIBUTORS John Brisco - Gear Up You, the Reader and Advertiser

(Just a few pointers that could save a life)

7

(KZN Biking Events an’ all)

8, 10, 20, 26

(People and Places in the news)

10

(DSTV Guide for Bikers)

Who to Buzz

12

(Contact details of advertisers)

Gearing Up

14

(GPS - is it worth it?)

CONTACT US Tel: (031) 916 6902 Fax: (086) 648 9855 Carin: 083 777 8716 Hein: 083 793 7975 Postal: PO Box 902 Amanzimtoti 4125

God’s Half Page

28

(This can change your life)

CMA in your area

28

(Find a CMA Chapter in your area)

Rate Sheet

28

(See how affordable it is to advertise)

Email: carin@biketalk.co.za hein@biketalk.co.za

REVIEWS Triumph Speed Tripple 1050

18

Web:

Ducati 1100 Hypermotard

22

OTHER Insurance

27

Rider Training

29

www.biketalk.co.za

While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information and reports in this magazine, the publisher, editor, production personnel, printer and distributor do not accept any responsibility whatsoever for any errors or omissions or for any effect there from.

The views expressed by correspondents are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher. All rights reserved.

Gear & Accessories Used Bikes

All over 11, 30, 32 5

keeping it up

Your motorcycle goes where you look

Target Fixation demonstrates pretty convincingly that your motorcycle goes where you’re looking. But why? Your eyes, after all, are not holding your handlebars and you frequently scan directions other than the one you’re traveling in without your bike wandering all over the road. Is it magic?

The idea that your motorcycle will go where you’re looking is merely a shorthand way of thinking about a phenomenon that virtually all drivers (of any kind of vehicle) have experienced before: that if you turn your head you tend to STEER in the direction you’re looking. In fact, it might be clearer to simply acknowledge that it is HARD to steer in any direction other than the one you are looking at. ALL of your prior experience has taught you how to steer your vehicle where you want it to go. So, if you look where you want to go, you kick in all that prior experience and AUTOMATICALLY steer in that direction.

There is no magic here nor is there a hidden law of physics involved. Your bike TENDS to go in the direction you are looking because, via experience, you have taught yourself to steer, more or less subconsciously.

To take advantage of that phenomenon you merely need to actively look in the direction you want to go - away from danger. The rest is virtually subconscious reaction. Of course it takes more than a turn of your eyes or even your head. You still need to steer away from danger. Since it is HARD to steer away from what you’re looking at, and easy (almost automatic) to steer in the direction you are looking, surely it makes sense to look where you want to go.

But, you say, there are many times when you look in directions other than the one you want to go. After all, one of the most important safety practices you engage in is to actively scan all around you looking out for hazards. Why is it that your motorcycle does not wander all over the road while you are scanning if it’s true that it tends to go where you’re looking? (More often than not, it does!)

The answer to that question is that when you are scanning or looking in a direction other than the one you want to go in you tell yourself to keep going in the direction you want - you turn OFF your ‘autopilot’. If you don’t believe me, next time you’re out on the road and it is safe to do so, point your bike in the direction you want to go and look in any other direction. Notice how a part of your mind is CONSTANTLY VERIFYING that you are still on course. You do not normally have to do that - that’s what your autopilot does for you.

But we have also been well advised to keep our head and eyes ‘up’ and pointed at the horizon. Surely looking down will not cause a motorcycle to go down, or will it?

Well, not directly. If you are in a skid, however, and look down the odds are overwhelming that you will go down. That, because you will have failed to actively steer the bike in such a way as to try to keep it upright. But that’s only one reason why you should keep your head up and eyes looking at the horizon. The other is that only by doing so can you actively scan for hazards or know, for sure, if your bike is vertical.

But that’s another story.

6 5

what’s on CALENDAR DATE

EVENT

2nd & 3rd Sunday of every month

CMA BIKERS CHURCH - 7AM

10 February

Memorial Run

15 February

East Coast Kawa 1st Birthday Bash

16 February

KZN Motorcycle Federation AGM

1 March

Beginner Rider Course - Bike Talk (Sat: 9am - 12am)

2 March

Proficiency Rider Course - Bike Talk (Sun: 9am - 4pm) Masons Mill, PMB

8 March

Basic Rider Course - Bike Talk (Sat: 9am - 4pm) Amanzimtoti

15 March

K53 Rider Course - Bike Talk (Sat: 9am - 4pm) Amanzimtoti

7 - 9 March

Bee Sting Rally

DESCRIPTION Christian Fellowship Church, cnr of Edwin Swales & Wakesley.

Rui: 082 8004108 Leaving Hyper by the Sea at 8am sharp for end venue in Pinetown.

CMA to host Memorial Service 10 Meridian Dr. from 6pm onwards Contact Lisa on 031 5663024 Girl Guides Hall, Lytton Cresc. Pinetown.

Time: 2.30pm Voting Chairman/Vice.

New Committee. Guest Speaker: Shane Rainbird - Bike Injuries.

If you’ve never ridden a bike before then this is for you. R300/person.

Contact Hein on 083 7937975 Learn to ride and control your bike at speed and under pressure. R650/person.

Contact Hein on 083 7937975 For the new or not-so-confident rider starting with the basics. R500/person Contact Hein on 083 7937975 Teaching you what you need to pass your K53 test the 1st time. R500/person Contact Hein on 083 7937975 Greytown. Custom Riders KZN Contact - Lee-Ann 083 6599898

14 - 16 March

Buffalo Rally

Aliwal North Mineral Spa. Entry fee is R160 if paid by 31 January 2008, thereafter the fee will be R190. Stand a chance to win R100 000 in Lucky Draw.

Entry Forms: www.nomads.org.za or contact us on 082 5597729.

20 - 23 March

Balele Rally

Utrecht Caravan Park. R160/person.

Cont: Philip 083 3000461 or Hog 082 9051649

26 - 28 April

Puke Rally

Iron Maiden Durban are hosting their rally at Ivala Lodge. Cont: Trevor 083 6309351 or Marius 082 7106366

30 May - 1 June

Chicken Rally

Contact Craig: 0834409029 for more info

6 July

CMA Nappy Run

26 - 28 July

Dragon Rally

9 August

Blanket Run

5 - 7 September

CMA Faith Rally

Leaving Southway Mall at 9:30am for Lords & Legends in Toti. Contact Carin on 083 7778716 Castaways Holiday Resort, Munster. contact Jo on 083 2850815 Leaving Hyper by the Sea at 9:30am sharp. Contact Jo on 083 2850815 All welcome. Skogheim - Contact Rui on 082 8004108 and book early. Entry Form on website: www.cmakzn.za.org/

7

IN THE NEWS

VICTORY MOTORCYCLES, located just outside Port Shepstone, is well situated right next to the main exit of the town towards the south. Stockists of Polaris and various other brands including a range of used motorcycles, an on-site workshop and spares for most makes and models. They offer a full service back-up with all the products they sell, something you dearly need in this neck of the woods - Pic by Bike Talk

CRITERION YAMAHA is a well stocked dealership in the South Coast Mall situated just of the N2 near Margate. Stocking everything from gear, accessories and good selection of motorcycles and water-crafts, just enough to tickle your fancy. Here’s to a great brand and a great looking shop in the South Coast, pop in and say “Hi” to Curt on your way down on a breakfast run - Pic by Bike Talk

SEE PAGE 29 FOR DETAILS 8

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BMW SA added a new dealer to their arsenal in December by appointing Ryder Motorrad to represent them in the greater Hillcrest area. Seen here is Sheldon attempting a sales pitch to some customers on the day of the shop opening in December 2007. Ryder Motorrad carries a full range BMW motorcycles, gear and accessories with an on-site workshop and coffee while you wait or browse. They are situated in the Heritage Market on Old Main Road in Hillcrest - Pic by Bike Talk

BIKES ON THE DISH DATE

CHAN

TIME

PROGRAM

DATE

CHAN

TIME

PROGRAM

13 Feb 13 Feb 13 Feb

Disc Disc Disc

01:00 11:55 16:30

American Chopper Biker Build-Off American Chopper

19/02 19/02

Disc Disc

01:00 16:30

American Chopper American Chopper

14 Feb 14 Feb 14 Feb 14 Feb

Disc Disc Disc Disc

01:00 02:50 06:00 16:30

American Chopper Biker Build-Off Biker Build-Off American Chopper

20/02 20/02 20/02

Disc Disc Disc

01:00 11:55 16:30

American Chopper Biker Build-Off American Chopper

15 Feb 15 Feb 15 Feb

Disc Disc Disc

01:00 16:30 21:00

American Chopper American Chopper American Chopper

21/02 21/02 21/02 21/02

Disc Disc Disc Disc

01:00 02:50 06:00 16:30

American Chopper Biker Build-Off Biker Build-Off American Chopper

16 Feb 16 Feb 16 Feb

Disc SSP 2 SSP 2

01:00 07:00 21:30

American Chopper Two Wheels Two Wheels

22/02 22/02 22/02

Disc Disc Disc

01:00 16:30 21:00

American Chopper American Chopper American Chopper

17 Feb 17 Feb 17 Feb

Disc SSP 2 Disc

17:00 17:30 19:00

Biker Build-Off Two Wheels American Chopper

23/02 23/02 23/02

Disc SSP 2 SSP 6

01:00 04:45 22:00

American Chopper FIM Superbike WC Two Wheels

18/02 18/02 18/02

Disc Disc Disc

02:50 04:10 16:30

Biker Build-Off American Chopper American Chopper

24/02 24/02

Disc Disc

19:00 17:00

American Chopper Biker Build-Off

12 Feb 12 Feb

10

Disc Disc

01:00 16:30

American Chopper American Chopper

18/02 18/02

SSP 2 SSP 2

21:00 22:00

World Supercross World Supercross

201 GREYLING STREET, PIETERMARITZBURG • TEL: 033 342 2455

Honda CBR400 R 22 000

Honda CBR600 R 30 000

Honda Blackbird R 62 000

Honda VFR400NC24 R 22 000

Honda VFR400NC30 R 26 000

Honda VFR400NC30 R 24 000

Honda VTR1000 R 44 000

Honda VTR1000 R 45 000

Hyosung 250 R 27 000

Kawasaki GPZ400 R 19 000

Kawasaki VN400 R 26 000

Kawasaki ZX12R R 55 000

Kawasaki ZX6R R 49 000

Kawasaki ZX9R R 54 000

Kawasaki ZZR1100 R 35 000

Suzuki Cobra 250 R 17 000

Suzuki GSXR1100 R 23 000

Suzuki RGV 250 R 23 000

Suzuki VS 400 R 26 000

Yamaha V-Max R 30 000

Puzey 250 Motard R 22 000

Puzey XTR 250 MX R 22 000

Puzey Pro 125 MXR R 13 000

Puzey 125 MXA R 8 000

Puzey JNR 100 R 8 000

Contact 082 426 7292 Web: www.tidy.co.za

• HUGE SELECTION AVAILABLE • ROADWORTHY • FINANCE: MOTOR FINANCE CORP • WORKSHOP

who to buzz AFFORDABLE BIKES Phone: 035 7511000

HARLEY-DAVIDSON GATEWAY Phone: 031 5663204

PINETOWN SPORTBIKES Phone: 031 7012115

ALFIE COX RACING Phone: 031 7022034

HARLEY-DAVIDSON 1000HILLS Phone: 031 7675350

R B S YAMAHA Phone: 031 7011311

APRILIA DURBAN Phone: 031 5665464

HONDA WING EMPANGENI Phone: 035 9018600

RAZER GEAR Phone: 082 8243783

AUTO UMHLANGA (BMW) Phone: 031 5029800

HONDA MARITZBURG Phone: 033 3456287

RIDER TRAINING Phone: 083 7937975

BIKE FANATIX Phone: 083 4881972

HONDA WING PINETOWN Phone: 031 7143600

RIDE HIGH YAMAHA Phone: 035 7871651

BIKE CITY Phone: 031 4648505

HONDA WING UMHLANGA Phone: 031 5807950

ROADMASTER Phone: 031 3013181

BIKE XPRESS Phone: 072 5481164

HUNTER MOTORCYCLES Phone: 086 1486862

RYDER MOTORRAD Phone: 031 7658877

BREAKEVEN MOTORCYCLES Phone: 031 5691357

JEFF’S BIKES Phone: 031 3012073

SCOOTER INN Phone: 031 3068826

C.I.T. MOTORCYCLES KZN Phone: 031 9169350

JORDAN MOTORCYCLES Phone: 084 2777081

SPEDDICK TYRES Phone: 031 5792260

CUSTOM CRAFT Phone: 031 7093514

LIZ O BROKERS Phone: 031 2667083

STARTLINE Phone: 031 7050715

CMA KZN Phone: 083 952 0000

LORDS & LEGENDS Phone: 031 9034534

SUZUKI RICHARDS BAY Phone: 035 7894205

CRITERION YAMAHA Phone: 039 6821479

MARSHALL MC Phone: 031 7057235

UMPLEBY SUZUKI Phone: 031 3038323

DUCATI DURBAN Phone: 031 5665464

MONTCLAIR MC Phone: 031 4622210

VICTORY MOTORCYCLES Phone: 039 6822168

DURBAN MOTORCYCLES Phone: 031 7027410/12/13

MOTO-TOUR AFRICA Phone: 082 4474833

THE JUNCTION Phone: 033 2666116

EAST COAST CHOPPERS Phone: 032 9461844

MOTORCYCLE CENTRE Phone: 033 3946941

TIDAL MOTORCYCLES Phone: 031 3123990

EAST COAST KAWASAKI Phone: 031 5663024

NEVIL EXHAUSTS Phone: 031 4622210

TIDY WHEELS Phone: 033 3422455

EKEROLD YAMAHA Phone: 033 3453503

NORTH COAST CUSTOMS Phone: 031 5695434

TOTI MOTORCYCLES Phone: 031 9032067

ES BROKERS Phone: 031 5629989

NORTH COAST KAWASAKI Phone: 035 7896378

XTREME OUTDOOR Phone: 031 9038904

EXTREME MACHINES Phone: 033 3942646

PAZ SPRAYPAINTERS Phone: 031 4622007

ZAP AUTO Phone: 031 4641992

GEAR UP Phone: 031 5664932

PERRY YAMAHA Phone: 031 5667411

12 11

2008 HONDA CBR 1000 RR

110 OLD MAIN ROAD PINETOWN TEL: (031) 714 3600

NATIONWIDE DELIVERY TRADE-INS WELCOME TEST RIDES & DEMO’S

NEW SALES MANAGER: SCOTT PARK

All prices include 14% VAT - Terms and Conditions apply

GEARING UP

by John Briscoe

GPS - Is it worth it?

Written by John Briscoe of Gear Up Motorcycle Accessories

We often have these wonderful two wheeled vehicles sitting at home to be used primarily for the Sunday run. Not much else transpires with these steeds unless of course you choose to go to a rally or some official event. Some do this more regularly than others! But even for those who get to the rally they are often faced with doing some more ‘out rides’ during the day.

Invariably the question is ‘where can I ride to and what’s the best route?’ Other questions such as ‘what accommodation is available and where should we stop for fuel along the way?’ arise too.

How much longer would it take if we were to call in at ‘The Whole Hog’, what routes avoid all the toll plazas? What type of roads will I encounter? How would I navigate through Johannesburg? And what happens if I get lost?

The great news is that the GPS (Global Positioning System) software has advanced to such an extent that all of the above questions and many others can be answered using this superb device. For those of you who already have one of these I’m sure you will attest to its usefulness not only in a leisure perspective but also from a business perspective. A particular client of ours continues to use his Bluetooth enabled GPS with his cellular phone to receive business calls whilst riding between appointments – this makes for huge efficiencies in terms of time utilisation – let alone the fact that very rarely does he get ‘lost’!

Whilst many of us understand the GPS system and use it with reasonable skill to plot a basic route, find an address and perhaps use it when lost, there are many features which the software provides for but seldom are we even aware of these. Under points of interest (POI) for example, many B&B’s are listed, the nearest hotels, fuel stations, shopping centres, and even banks/ATMs, hospitals, transportation, geographic places, community aspects and auto services.

To answer the question ,yes, I really do believe that these devices are worth the expenditure.

It saves on aggravation (and sure, it does create tension for those who don’t take the time to understand the device) and allows one to go places that you would not really venture in to because of the fear of getting lost. Tracks for Africa have some great software for those who go off the beaten track whilst Garmin do provide the most extensive coverage of the roads in Southern Africa and are regularly being updated. Next time I’ll give you some info on the different Garmin models available with their relative strengths and weaknesses. Other players are slowly filtering into the market and I’m sure we’ll see extensive competition in the future.

14

www.startline.co.za

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REVIEW:

Triumph Speed Tripple 1050

REVIEW BY HEIN JONKER The thing is an absolute hooligan, a social misfit that defied definition. It could leave anything this side of a sport bike for dead at the lights, and few bikes could hang in the twisties.

I am happy to say the latest evolution of the popular naked standard Triumph developing more torque, more peak horsepower, upgraded suspension and better brakes, while undergoing a styling face lift and weight loss program, the new Triumph Speed triple is ready to rock your world.

As with the previous generations, the heart of soul of the Speed Triple is an inline, double overhead camshaft, water-cooled three-cylinder engine.

Producing a claimed 131bhp at 9,250rpm, and a healthy 105Nm of torque at 7,550rpm, the new engine is stronger than last year’s model. Gaining this power increase in the time-honoured fashion of bigger displacement, the new 1,050cc engine, up from 955cc, gave me possibly the biggest surprise during my test.

Expecting it to feel a tad lazier, due to the extra displacement, cracking open the throttle had the pistons spinning up so much quicker, dropping the clutch and putting a bunch of horsepower through the gummy 180-section rear tyre, quickly dispatched this notion, as the bike launched at the horizon with an urgency the old model could never hope to match. There is a pleasing guttural rumble when you twist the throttle hard at 3,000 rpm and immediate forward progress; the fuel injected triple pulling like a train all the way to red line. Out on the highway cruising in top gear, 120km/h comes up at just a tad over 4,000 rpm so no need to down shift for most overtaking manoeuvres, as the engine is ready to roll.

The increase in popularity for naked standard class has certainly not been missed by Triumph this speaks volumes about their commitment to this class, as all the previous generation models have used softer-tuned engines sourced from Triumph’s Daytona sport bike line.

The new motor has undergone a thorough re-design to achieve the increase in displacement and horsepower. The gearbox also received some attention. This now features a backlash eliminator gear and is responsible for the sweetest shifting Triumph to date. Requiring minimal travel to select the next gear, and giving slick clutch less up shifts, it performed faultlessly throughout out the test, at any rpm, in any gear, with one or two wheels on the ground.

Should you need to, this action is performed with a light two-finger pull on the multi-adjustable brake lever. Sending brake fluid to a pair of four-piston radial callipers biting down on 320mm floating discs, the system is unquestionably the best to be found on a Triumph motorcycle yet.

The five-spoke alloy wheels are new this year, and greatly add to the bikes stunning looks. These are greatly enhanced by the trick looking under tail exhausts that replace the old three-into-one system. Tucked up under the squared off back end, there is a removable license plate bracket for those that want to further clean up the rear of the bike. The signature twin-headlights are retained up front, but the old twin analogue gauges are history: a new high-tech compact display, which features colour coded shift lights replacing it. Going from green to red as the rpm head toward red line they are programmable for the shift point of your choice. The tachometer is still an analogue unit and much easier to read than the small digital numbers on the speedometer display. Perched above the headlights, it is purely minimalist in its design and does nothing to fend off the oncoming breeze.

This is not a problem on the Speed Triple, as the wide, tubular bars sit you straight up in the wind and you take the blast square in the chest and helmet area with little buffeting. For those of you looking for a little more wind protection Triumph has got you covered with a smart looking fly screen available. They also produce a nice assortment of extras, including a rear seat cowl, radiator shroud, belly pan and tank protector. And, if you are interested in a little more aural stimulation and a wee bit of extra power, there are some wonderful sounding mufflers, like this aftermarket ZARD, available as well.

Able to scrub speed and dive into the tightest bends with the greatest of ease, there are going to be some very nervous sport bike riders seeing twin headlights in their mirrors this year. Also able to roll along at a relaxed and law abiding pace in comfort, thanks to the broad seat and upright bars, you could add some soft luggage and quite easily spend all day touring if needed.

PRICE R98 500.00 Incl. VAT (FREE Arai Chaser Helmet)

18

10 Meridian Drive, Umhlanga Ridge Tel: (031) 566 3024

R 1200 GS

3 (4

5IF 'BTDJOBUJPO PG 'SFFEPN

www.bmwmotorrad .co.za

Sheer Riding Pleasure

Auto Umhlanga

115 Flanders Drive, Mount Edgecombe Tel: (031) 502 9800

HONDA GATEWAY unveiled the all new 2008 Fireblade (CBR1000RR) on Saturday, 2 Feb. A healthy crowd pulled up to view this long awaited metamorphosis, have their bikes dyno’d and take part in an all new experience on the Wheelie machine, now said to be a permanent feature in KZN. Keep your eye on the next issue of Bike Talk for the review on this new bike ... oh-boy oh-boy oh-boy, it’s gonna be fun. Mixed remarks about the new “blade” were heard, go ride it and make up your own mind - Pic by Bike Talk Inside the shop buzzing around the three models of the new “blade”.

Pic by Bike Talk

The “Wheelie Machine” in action, fit for all if you want to learn how to get that front-end up and keep it under control.

Check-out the next issue for more ...

Pic by Bike Talk

20

WE MANUFACTURE

259 GALE STREET, UMBILO, DURBAN TEL: 031 301 3181/2

- all exhaust systems are individually hand crafted -

CANISTERS - Oval & Round PIPES - Shotgun, Drag & Slashed REINFORCEMENT - Tail Racks - Crash Bars - Nerf Bars - Bull Bars EXHAUST SYSTEMS - T304 Stainless Steel Exhausts - Branch & Turbo Manifolds - Boost & Induction Pipes

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REVIEW:

DUCATI HYPERMOTARD 1100

REVIEW BY HEIN JONKER Ducati’s latest is so high-strung it should run on Ritalin. It’s called the Hypermotard -- “hyper” because the 1,078 cc L-twin is a twitchy little torque monster, and “motard” because its slim profile, slick Pirellis and tall bar-stool seat are pure supermoto.

But take this baby off road, and the neighborhood bar is exactly where you’ll end up. The Hypermotard 1100 S may look like a dual sport on steroids, but it’s really just a high-end superbike with radical dirt looks. It’s pretty bold to make a dual sport that shouldn’t be taken off road, but that’s exactly what Ducati’s done. If the new Hypermotard proves anything, it’s that success breeds eccentricity. And this Italian manufacturer has had a string of successes with its drool-worthy sport bikes. The Hypermotard is likely to continue that trend.

Never mind that the model name sounds like a developmental disorder. It’s a Ducati, so it’s highfunctioning. It may not be a dirt bike, but in spirit, at least, this four-stroke encapsulates the bullish and snorting twostrokes. The first time I threw a leg over and twisted the grip, I was G-forced back in the saddle. The Hypermotard isn’t about horsepower, which is a mere 90bhp at 7,750 rpm. It’s about torque. The cylinders’ wide 98 mm bores and relatively short 71.5 mm strokes crank a whopping 103Nm at 4,750 rpm. In fact, the bike has such an unforgiving throttle and is so quick off the line that it’s almost impractical in traffic. Pray that you’re behind a Porsche when the light goes green because anything else moves too slowly. Why Ducati didn’t swap the horn for a voice box that yells “Get out of my way,” I don’t know.

The Hypermotard wants to climb up and over whatever has the misfortune of being in its way. The Hypermotard can also go between the cars, of course, but only if you collapse the clamshell mirrors. With the mirrors extended, it has an eagle-esque wingspan of 122cm. Collapse the mirrors, however, and the bike is just 97cm’s wide, which makes lane splitting as free-flowing as water over rocks; the downside is you can’t see what’s coming from behind. The rear-view mirrors are one of the most innovative features of the new Hypermotard, and I found myself having a lovehate relationship with them. As with a dirt bike, the grips have hand guards. Unlike on a dirt bike, those hand guards incorporate the turn signals and also serve as mounts and housing for the mirrors. Unfortunately, they force you to make a choice. Either you flip the mirrors out and are too wide to split lanes, or you tuck them in and blind yourself to the perils all around. It’s a major trumping of form over function, especially since the Hypermotard isn’t meant to go off road or even to race, as its dual sport styling may indicate. Fuel injected and catalyzed with an electric start, rather than a kick, the 177kg Hypermotard is too heavy to be a contender. Its displacement is also twice as big as a real supermoto racer. Ducati’s decision to air-cool the bike wasn’t so much to lighten the load, as it would be on a true race bike, but because the associated plumbing would have been an aesthetic nightmare. And ugliness is anathema to Ducati, which with its Hypermotard has elevated dirt-bike basics to high art with elegant trademark touches, such as the trellis frame, under-tail exhaust, single-sided swingarm and enough Italian components to have you singing “That’s Amore.”

The premium, S version doesn’t name-drop as much as I was expecting because the base model is already pretty Italian-ed out. Some of the fiberglass body work’s been swapped for fancy carbon fiber, the monoshock’s switched from Sachs to Ohlins and the Marzocchi fork tube sliders are coated with diamond-like carbon to reduce friction and increase responsiveness when the front-end slams to the ground from a 120km/h wheelie. At 50 mm in diameter are better to take the abuse from whatever stunts Hypermotard riders are sure to try. The Hypermotard is capable of 205km/h, but you’d be a fool to take it that fast. Travel much more than 140 and it feels like some fat guy is shoving you in the chest because of the lack of a windshield.

So if it isn’t for off road and it isn’t the ideal commuter, what is it? It’s a Ducati -- it doesn’t really matter. If Ducati made a can opener, people would rush to buy it. The twisties are where this Hayabusa of a “supermoto” bike belongs.

That’s where the Hypermotard best lives up to the first part, at least, of its name -- throttle wide, leaned over and running wild.

PRICE Standard: R119 500.00 Incl. VAT “S” version: R139 500.00 Incl. VAT

22

Ridgeton Towers, 6 Aurora Drive, Umhlanga Ridge Tel: (031) 566 5464

Meet the New Middleweight Champion: the 848 Superbike Ridgeton Towers, 6 Aurora Drive, Umhlanga Ridge Tel: 031 566 5464 • Fax 086 512 7346 info@ducatidurban.co.za • www.ducatidurban.co.za At 168kg and 134hp, the 848 really packs a punch. An amazing 20kg lighter and 30% more powerful than its predecessor (and a significant 5kg lighter than its larger capacity brother the award-winning 1098), the 848 invents a new class of Superbike. Race one today.

50% less maintenance costs on every Ducati. All 2007 models onwards.

This image portrays a professional rider on a controlled racetrack. Never attempt any action that could be potentially hazardous to you or other road and track users.

APRILIA DURBAN recently had the official opening of their grand new shop next-door to the already popular Ducati Durban shop in Ridgeton Towers at Gateway.

Stylish, typical of the Italians, with branding all over the showroom and stocked with the latest in the Aprilia arsenal along with a selection of your favourite gear to go with your brand new Mille or Tuono or whatever tickles your fancy.

Martin eagerly awaits for you to pop your little face in there, ask any question you want on this great product and experience an unique quality only fit for those who know what they want.

Major time, money and effort has been put into this venture with Phil and his team truly trying to promote the brand and put it in its rightful place with the rest ... way up there.

You’ve been invited ...

You’ve been challenged ...

Now take the next step and be the man you know you can become.

24

TEAM APRILIA OFF ROAD CLOSES OUT 2007 WITH THE FIM WORLD CONSTRUCTOR TITLE IN THE S2 SUPERMOTO AND NUMEROUS SUCCESSES IN WORLD ENDURO CHAMPIONSHIP

RXV 450 from R 78 995.00 RXV 550 from R 80 995.00

from

from

SXV 450 R 79 995.00 SXV 550 R 81 995.00

E & OE

Aprilia Durban

The lifestyle keeps on getting better.

Ridgeton Towers, 6 Aurora Drive, Umhlanga Ridge Tel: 031 566 5464 • Fax 086 512 7346 info@apriliadurban.co.za

SAD HEART

Oh Lenny, this was a sad day for all of those who truly knew you. For those who didn’t make the effort to get to know your heart, shame on them, they missed out on a great personality a super dad and a caring man. I am sad today and will be for years to come, I loved your warm welcome every time we (my wife and I) came into your shop. Your zest for life was contagious and we knew deep inside, you had a heart of gold, yeah sure you may have had some enemies, who doesn’t, no-one is perfect but you were loved by many. I will miss you; I will miss your laughs, your warm greetings and kindness.

Thanks for being a part of my life Lenny, may your spirit live long in the hearts of those who loved you.

26

16 Gatecrasher Lane Stable Market Jaco Jackson Rd (next to ABSA Stadium)

• AUTOSOL @ R35

• CUT-OFF GLOVES @ R90

• LEATHER W/COATS @ R495

Custom Leathers Designed & Made to Measure Wide range of Men’s & Ladies Leather Gear Metal Badges & Embroided Patches We make up Biker Gifts Sets

7BOFҝB Cell: 082 650 7054 . Fax: 088 031 561 2791 Email: msa@telkomsa.net

Tel: 031 266 7083, Fax: 031 266 7084 Cell: 082 450 4465 Email: lizo@mweb.co.za

• • • • • • • • •

Full comprehensive cover; Cover is also extended to include clothing, like helmets, jackets, boots, etc. and accessories, as well as trailers; Underwritten by Hollard; Loss of keys will be reimbursed including the remote alarm controller and if necessary re-programming of any coded alarm system up to R2 000 on any event.

Includes R750 000 legal liability per event towards 3rd parties but pillion cover is optional; Flat basic excess of R2 500; If there is a claim or incident within first 90 days of inception date of policy, then an additional R3 000 excess will apply; If motorcycle is being driven by any person who is only in possession of a learner’s license an additional excess of R5 000 will apply.

Cover extends to include track schools but subject to approved track schools - racing is excluded - and additional R5 000 excess will apply.

Licensed Financial Service Provider

271 Umbilo Rd, Durban 031 301 2073 www.jeffsbikes.co.za

XS125

R6999

• 4 Stroke 125cc • Electric Start • Fully automatic • 4 Colours • Cellphone indicator • Top box sold seperately • Allowed on Highways • FREE: - 1 year or 10 000km warranty

XL110

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• 4 Stroke 110cc • Electric Start • Automatic clutch • 5 Colours • Allowed on Highways • FREE: - Backrest - 1 year or 10 000km warranty

www.vukascuta.com

VUKA SCUTA IN DURBAN - ONLY AT JEFFS BIKES KZN’s LONGEST ESTABLISHED MOTORCYCLE DEALERSHIP

27

GOD’s HALF PAGE

Unafraid of Death and Judgment?

A certain person was driving 120km/h down one of those long, straight stretches of a Namib highway one hot afternoon. No other cars were in sight, but up ahead he saw the form of a large bird bending over and tearing flesh from a run over rabbit. As he got closer, a huge hawk straightened up defiantly and looked directly into the headlights.

Instead of taking flight as these birds normally do, the giant hawk spread his wings, almost blocking the road, and challenged the speeding car. Its body made a “whump” sound as the car hit it, and the proud bird was instantly dead. Neither the run over rabbit nor its pride were any good to it then.

On another occasion the same man was again driving down a highway when he saw the small rounded form of a turtle making a slow journey across his path. He remembered the giant hawk, and thought of what a 2-ton truck would do to a small 2kg turtle. The turtle looked up and saw the car coming. He didn’t run; he didn’t dodge out of the way, nor did he challenge the car. He stopped and pulled all four legs and his head into his shell. The car missed the motionless turtle that rested confidently in his shell.

The proud hawk and the deluded turtle are like two kinds of people ignoring the speeding advance of death and judgment: one is proud and defies the claims of Christ on his or her life; the other pulls into his or her own self-righteous shell.

Your life will also change if you think seriously that one day it will end, perhaps suddenly and soon. After that you will have to give an account of it to God. Are you ready for it?

rate sheet Advertising artwork may be supplied set out to our guidelines. We can also design your advert for you at a minimum of R200. Our Rates are as follows and excludes Agency Commission: Full Page - Prime R1500 Double Page - Spread R1800 Full Page - Standard R1000 Half Page - Standard R600 Review - Full Page R600 Quarter Page - Standard R300 The Salesman - Smalls R75 Editorial - Full Page R600 Advert Design Charge - Minimum R200 (14% VAT not charged until we are VAT registered) In the News Runs & Rallies What’s on Calendar

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DEADLINE: ARTWORK:

Last Friday of each month Call to confirm artwork specs

CONTACT: EMAIL: OFFICE TEL: CELL:

Carin Jonker carin@biketalk.co.za 031 916 6902 083 777 8716

28

bikers church: - durban - richards bay

www.cmakzn.za.org

chapters: - durban - empangeni - eshowe - greytown - highway - ixopo - ladysmith - maritzburg - new castle - richards bay - south coast - vryheid

CHRISTIAN MOTORCYCLISTS ASSOCIATION

HERE WHEN YOU NEED US JANNA: 083 952 0000 - KZN Regional President ADRIAAN: 083 459 8662 - KZN North Area DIRK: 083 6568019 - KZN Battlefields Area RIAAN: 083 653 2626 - KZN Midlands Area RUI: 082 800 4108 - KZN South Area

COURSE OPTIONS Beginner Rider Learner License Basic Rider K53 License Road Wise Proficiency

R300pp R500pp R500pp R500pp R650pp R650pp

SuperMoto 200cc only R14 999 (now arrived)

Upgraded Finance Options Available

031 306 8826 10 Umbilo Road Durban • www.scooterinn.co.za

Up-side-down front suspension, front and rear Dual POT hydraulic calliper system and 17” SuperMoto alloys.

A bike with serious street-cred, so get ready to “Bring out the Hooligan in you!”

contact HEIN on 083 7937975 / 031 9166902 or visit www.biketalk.co.za for course info, course dates and registration

29

TEL: 031 916 9350 2 MURRAY SMITH RD WINKLESPRUIT - KZN www.citsports.co.za

‘06 GSXR1000 R85 000

‘04 GSXR1000 R74 000

‘03 YZF R1 R65 000

‘03 YZF R6 R53 000

‘06 YZ450F R49 000

‘06 CRF450X R46 000

‘05 CRF250X R37 000

‘04 RM250 R38 000

‘06 KTM 85SX R16 000

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Tel: 031 705 7235, 031 705 7237 Fax: 031 705 7238 Email: mvn@iafrica.com www.marshallmotorcycles.co.za Shop 3 & 4 Power Centre 21 Lanner Rd., Pinetown Peter: 082 932 7838 Michelle: 082 220 7286

‘01 Honda VTR-SP1 10 000km, spotless

‘04 Honda VFR 800 Tornado Pipes, Panniers

K7 Suzuki GSXR1000 5000km

R79 000 R94 500

R103 900 R49 900

‘06 BMW R1200GS with Panniers

R59 000

‘07 BMW R1200GS, 5000km Panniers, Topbox & Tankbag

R118 000

R58 000

‘00 BMW R1200RS

‘06 BMW R1100S Boxercup 1 of 27, 3000km

R92 500

New KLR600, Long Range Tank, many xtras

‘02 BMW K1200LT, Fullhouse, 22 500km

R49 999

‘01 BMW R1150GS

R65 000

‘00 BMW R1150GS

R45 000

‘06 BMW K1200LT, Fullhouse, 8500km

R149 500

www.marshallmotorcycles.co.za