OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE BMW MOTORCYCLE CLUB OF QUEENSLAND INC.
This Issue - November 2023
The Committee President- Tony Gray
Contents:-
Ph: 0409 493 605 president@bmwmcq.org.au R1200GS (The Grey Ghost) R60/6
EDITORIAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 PRESIDENT’S REPORT. . . . . . . . . . 5 BMWMCQ EVENTS CALENDAR . . . . 6 COMMITTEE REPORTS . . . . . . . . . 8 FROM THE PEN OF JANE .. . . . . . . . 15 REGALIA CATALOGUE . . . . . . . . . . 16 ALLOY CAM AFRICAN SAFARI. . . . . 18 A GOOD READ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 MOTOCAP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 A WEEK FOR A CENTURY. . . . . . . . 21 LIFE’S INTERSECTIONS . . . . . . . . . 25 B2B20. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 MOTORRAD NATIONALS . . . . . . . . 28
Vice President - Paul Hughes Ph: 0409 814 633 vpres@bmwmcq.org.au
R1200GS, Tiger 900 BMW Clubs Australia Delegate
Secretary- Geoff Hodge Ph: 0413 180 101 secretary@bmwmcq.org.au R1200RS; R75/5, R51/3
Treasurer - Darryl Gowlett
Ph: 0438 083 996 treasurer@bmwmcq.org.au R80GS; K100RS4V; K1300R
Ph: 0448 594 833 events@bmwmcq.org.au R1200 RT, R100GS
Records- Greg Gaffney Ph: 0411424 219 records@bmwmcq.org.au R1200RT
Tools/Service - Bill Luyten Ph: 0438 123 747 tools@bmwmcq.org.au R1200GS; R1150 Rockstar
THE LAST WORD . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 BMWMCQ BOOK EXCHANGE. . . . . . 55
Advertisers
Events - Ben Nazzari
Editors - Cindy & Duncan Bennett Ph: 0401 610 671 editor@bmwmcq.org.au R1200C; Triumph Tiger 900’s
A MONTH IN THE LIFE . . . . . . . . . . 30 CAPTAIN CONEHEAD . . . . . . . . . . . 32 HERE’S THE SKINNY. . . . . . . . . . . 36 MILEAGE AWARDS . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 MID-WEEK RIDE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 SMART RIDER ACADEMY. . . . . . . . 42 RESTORATION OF AN ICON PT6 . . . . 43 CLUB TRAINING SUBSIDY . . . . . . . . 48 THE AIRHEADS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
TeamMoto -M&W INSIDE COVER Caloundra Motorcycles - P.50 Northside Motorcycles - P.51 Munich Motorcycles - P.52
Good Wool Store - P.52 TeamMoto GOLD COAST- P.53 TeamMoto SPRINGWOOD- BACK COVER
On The Cover
The joys of October - Ocean Beach Strahan Tasmania after a touch of light “off-road” on a pair of BMW R1250GS Rallye motorcycles.
Regalia - Duncan Bennett Ph: 0458 293 569 regalia@bmwmcq.org.au
Dealer Liaison - Don Grimes Ph: 0411 601 372 R1200GS; K1300R
Club Details
BMW Motorcycle Club of Queensland Inc. ABN 30 351 243 651
Address all correspondence to: The Secretary PO Box 3669 South Brisbane QLD 4101 Monthly meetings are held on the first Thursday of the month at the:
Geebung RSL Club 323 Newman Road Geebung A Club Ride is usually held on the first Sunday after the monthly meeting. BMWMCQ AIMS The objectives of the BMWMCQ are to increase the enjoyment of motorcycling by: 1. Improving the opinion of the public towards motorcycling in general and associated members
particularly, by careful, courteous, considerate riding, especially when riding with the Club, and rendering assistance to all road users in difficulty. 2. Improving the service and availability of spare parts for BMWs in Queensland using the advantage of a united effort. 3. Decreasing maintenance and running costs by mutual assistance on mechanical problems. 4. Organising day trips, tours and outings. 5. Encourage and support Regional Ride Groups 6. Affiliation with other clubs/associations where such affiliation would be of mutual benefit. DISCLAIMER The views and opinions expressed in this Journal are those of each contributor and are not necessarily shared by the Editor, management, and / or membership of the BMWMCQ. The Editor reserves the right to refuse any advertising or delete any material which could be considered or interpreted as questionable, libellous or offensive, without consultation. WEB SITE Visit: www.bmwmcq.org.au
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NOVEMBER 2023
Cindy & Duncan Bennett
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Editorial Editor’s Report
he journey of another 100 years begins with a single ride on a BMW loaner bike. But to read more about that, you’ll have to flog yourself all the way to Cindy’s Last Word like you’re a rank outsider who finds himself in front with 100m to go in the Cup.
We were looking forward to rest and relaxation before the next really big one in 2058, then suddenly remembered that we’re supposed to be getting a 100th Anniversary BMWMCQ printed edition organised and out to the membership. The edition will be a record of the 100th celebrations, and with some world-class photographers amongst us the pictures particularly from Reddacliff Place are expected to create something memorable that can go straight to the pool room. But the BMWMCQ is all about the members, so if you have any photos of bikes and the people who (in most cases platonically) love them, we want them. Besides all of that we had an extremely enjoyable 5 day jaunt on hired R1250GS Rallyes around Tasmania in mid October. As old Tasmanians, we know that October weather can be good even on the West Coast, except when it isn’t. But it was, we hardly saw a cloud west of the descriptively named town of Ouse, pronounced Ooze. Can’t imagine the first agenda item on the Ouse town council meetings since 1835 has been anything other than “Seriously? Ooze? Sounds like flowing discharge from a gangrenous sore! Why not change it to Drizzleville?” Stay tuned next month for the full report on the ride and the bikes which we hired from TMTR in Hobart. Duncan & Cindy
We need your photos and words for a very special publication to be produced in the next couple of months.... Celebrating 100 Years of BMW Motorrad - through the eyes of the BMWMCQ! You can upload your photos (quality v quantity please!) and any short or long article to the following dropbox link: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/lv3ehhuzrs7lnjyi3qxvr/h?rlkey=s8f5hzpt4wpg6ja6k7dzoa1nu &dl=0
(If for some reason this link doesn’t work for you please email Editor)
Submissions for the Next Journal close 25th (ish) November VENUE FOR BMWMCQ GENERAL MEETINGS GEEBUNG RSL CLUB 323 NEWMAN ROAD GEEBUNG MEALS OPEN AT 6.00 PM MEETING STARTS 7.30 PM
NEXT MEETING: Thursday 2 November
Committee Reports Tony Gray
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NOVEMBER 2023
5
President’s Report
hat goes up must come down is a fair analogy for this past month. The Club was on a high of Mt Everest proportions last month with our BMW Motorrad Centenary Celebrations so it is understandable that there has been a bit of a vacuum as we descended back to normality. That is not such a bad thing for a club as active as the BMWMCQ.
There have been events aplenty and I have managed to get to a couple which have been very enjoyable, meeting some new members and spending times with friends. I have also had a little ‘spare’ time to finish off some details on Big Red the phoenix rising of a discarded R1100GS. The R1100 and the ensuing 1150, the first of the 4 valve oilheads that replaced the much loved airhead models, sit somewhat uncomfortably in the BMW R series of bikes between the airheads and the widely popular 1200 range. When released they were much maligned by the Airhead devotees as they heralded in the evolution of the boxer-engine with ABS and electronic ignition that has continued unabated now for the past 27 years as we await the arrival of the latest R1300GS. They were an ugly duckling, they were heavy but they were nigh on unbreakable. In today’s market compared to their older airhead siblings, they are also cheap. My example sat on the scrap heap, poorly diagnosed by professionals as having failed and irreparable ABS brakes. Plenty of attention to detail, many hours and a few $$ and she is ready to go. Along similar lines to Big Red was the R1100GS Dakar tribute bike that won third prize at the M&W Centenary Concours. This ex Tony Cuffe, ex Charlie Brown bike had truly been written off after a crash but Guy Harding has done a brilliant job to give it a second, or is that third, life. Craig Brennan has also been busy in the shed restoring life to the ex Les Fitzpatrick R75/5 with Heinrich tank that has not been fired in anger for two decades. A discussion with Club Life Member and font of all knowledge, Richard Maher, gave light to the colorful history attached to this bike. A story for a future journal perhaps. This is a brilliant part of the club that follows the ideals set out by our forebears who banded together in 1958 to help each other in maintaining their BMWs and promoting the marque. I am sure they would be proud of where the club sits in 2023. At October’s Club Meeting we had Stephen McDowall from Smart Rider Academy along with Julian Davis, club member and trainer with SRA, give us an outline of what they have been doing with Transport & Main Roads and the Ride to Zero motorcycle safety campaign. The club has now lodged an application with TMR for 100 heavily subsidised places in motorcycle safety training courses. We are looking at a range of training courses to cater for the equally wide range of rider experience and competencies in our membership. Once approved we will have 12 months to undertake the training and expend the allocated funds. I want to thank Julian for his valued assistance in getting this application lodged within the very tight time frame set by TMR. Tony
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Datee Thur 2 Nov.
NOVEMBER 2023
BMWMCQ Club Events for NOVEMBER 2023
Start
Event
Club Monthly Meeting
9:00am
Mid Week Ride
Sat 18 Nov. Sat 25 Nov.
9:00 am
Coffee Meet Up
Sun 26 Nov. Tue 28 Nov.
12:30pm Club Lunch Ride 6.15 pm German Club Social
Wed 15 Nov.
Details
Contact
Geebung RSL Club, 323 President Newman Road, Geebung QLD. Meals from 6pm 7:00 to Caffeine, Banter Espresso 25, 1 Boatworks Drive Events Coordinator 11:00am & Bikes Coomera Gold Coast 7:30 pm
Sat 11 Nov.
BMWMCQ 2023 Events Calendar
6:00pm
Sunny Coast Dinner
Departing Mt Coot-tha Lookout at 9:30am or meet at The Reserve Cafe, Anstead 10am for coffee, mystery ride to follow! The Goat Shed, 408 Mt Glorious Road Samford Valley Banana Bender Pub, 1 Downunder Drive Palmview (old Ettamogah Pub) Rathdowney Pub - 73 Collins Street Rathdowney Brisbane German Club dinner 416 Vulture St, Kangaroo Point
Tony Gray - Ride Leader
Events Coordinator Steve Maney - SC Riders
Events Coordinator Events Coordinator
Sunny Coast Dinner Ride – Saturday 25 November Join the final Sunny Coast Event for 2023! A ride led by Steve Maney around the Sunny Coast Hinterland will end up at the Banana Bender Pub (old Ettamogah Pub) for a 6:00pm dinner. Meeting point will be advised when sufficient interest is shown for the pre-ride via the Facebook event. Come along for a fun night with friends.
NOVEMBER 2023 BMWMCQ 2023 Events Calendar BMWMCQ Club Events for DECEMBER 2023
Datee Thur 7 Dec
Start
Event
Details
Contact
7:30 pm
Club Monthly Meeting
Geebung RSL Club, 323 Newman Road, Geebung QLD. Meals from 6pm Ballina RSL, 240 River Street Ballina NSW
President
Sat 9 Dec. 6:30pm Sat 16 Dec.
9:00am
End of Year Social Dinner!
Coffee Meet-up Carport Cafe, 137 Glenora St Wynnum Last official event of the year!
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Don Grimes Events Coordinator
Merry Christmas!
25 Dec.
EXTRAORDINARY EVENTS CALENDAR Date 9 - 11 February 2024 10 - 11 April 2024
Event Karuah River Rally
Location Karuah River
National BMW Motorrad Rally
Nuriootpa, SA
Contact https://bmwmccact.org.au/ event-5419061 https://sites.google.com/view/ bmwownersclubofsa/events
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NOVEMBER 2023
Paul Hughes
Committee Reports Vice President’s Report
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ell last month has seen quite a bit of serenity for me and it has been very welcome. After all of the excitement of the 100 Year Celebrations and some dicking around with bikes, I feel relatively refreshed. I am on a farm half way up a small mountain overlooking a pristine valley and have spent the days listening to the sound of kookaburras and thirsty cows. (See pics below) Venison has been on the menu a lot and it is absolutely delicious served almost directly from the harvest. Apart from a couple of friends who chose to ride the dirt road in and have lunch or dinner, it has been pretty solitary, something I have enjoyed. That will soon end and I will be back on a tour which I hope will be both satisfying and drama free. One of the things I have noticed when venturing out to the nearest town 13 km away, is just how friendly everyone is. They simply can’t do enough to help you, and that is something this club also excels at. I am constantly amazed (through my 14 short years of membership compared to many) how people are just so willing to drop everything and lend a hand when needed or give technical advice or just companionship. You can’t buy those unexpected qualities, but this club just keeps on giving. The 100 Year Celebrations brought a lot of that out and so did a recent need by myself after a minor event. I am so grateful for all the assistance. They know who they are and don’t need naming because they just step up and always do. That feature is something that makes this club absolutely a “stand out” and something to be cherished. I have also unfortunately noticed some bad behaviour of motorcyclists seems to be on the rise. Not our club members but “motorcyclists” as a general group. Leaving venues and doing wheelies in traffic with no concern for anybody else on the road or in the vicinity. Thumbing their nose as much as they can at authorities both online and in person. Just plain being “grubs”. The term “natural selection” comes to mind but that disregards all the grief and sadness they leave behind. I will make this rather obvious statement…… riding on the wrong side of a highway at nearly twice the speed limit in shorts and thongs and abusing people to get out of your way is not OK. I saw that very activity yesterday coming back from the coast. Absolutely unacceptable. I am about to have another ‘Where to next?’ tour on my way south to see my son. Looking forward to the adventure and satisfaction that long motorcycle trips brings me. No planning of routes, no pre bookings and no schedule…..just enjoy it. Sounds like fun to me. The club has many activities each month that strive to make available something for everyone. The people who organise these events work hard at it. Please assist them wherever possible and don’t forget to thank them. Stay safe, ride often and enjoy it. Cheers, Paul.
Committee Reports Ben Nazzari
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NOVEMBER 2023
9
Events Officer’s Report
i Everyone,
I’m Writing this quick note from Ceduna South Australia. We have been over to Perth and now heading home. It has been an amazing, eye opening journey on this 1150GS. Some said take her others said no don’t take big red.
Well I decided to take the GS and what an absolute machine by the time I arrive home it will have clocked over 140,000km’s and over 5,000km’s for this trip alone. I have taken numerous pics and videos (a couple below) and in next months journal I will be doing a big write up with lots more pics for all to see and experience what we have. On that note I will sign off and would like to thank Paul Hughes for organising a few events whilst I am away. Till next time be safe and stay upright. Regards, Ben.
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NOVEMBER 2023
Geoff Hodge
Committee Reports Secretary’s Report
BMWMCQ General Meeting Minutes – 5 October 2023 Venue: Geebung RSL Meeting Opened: Apologies: Minutes of Previous General Meeting: Number of Attendees: New Members (Name & MC): Visitors: Returning Members: Treasurer Report: Editor Report:
Tools Report: Regalia Report: Records Report: Events Report:
Secretary Report: Dealer Liaison Report:
7:30 pm Bill Luyten, Chris Lancaster, Gary Bennett, Ben Nazzari, Michael John, Michael & Ann Ahlberg, Paul Hughes. Accepted: Darryl Gowlett Seconded: Cindy Bennett 32 Glen Beaton R1100S; Judy R1200RT Nil Nil As per Journal, all bills paid. Bumper Edition in October. More photos & articles always required. Dropbox setup for members to lodge Centenary Event Photos for a very special Centenary Publication. Next Service Day will be on 21 October at Rob Wynne’s place Special Centenary edition Key Rings, bumper stickers and event posters available for sale individually or as a pack. Currently 283 financial members with 9 new members in past month. Events as per posted - Ben currently travelling to WA. B2B event over long weekend by Don & Kate - dirty option available led by Duncan, up for a bit of fun as always. Special event on 11 November at invitation from the Gold Coast Restorers Club. Contact made via our Centenary Bike Show. Opportunity to view private collection of German M’cycles at Tamborine. Must be registered to attend this event as numbers will be limited. RFDS letter received, thanks for donations of $315.40 & $254.60. Orders being taken for new R1300GS with 2024 delivery, also for new F900GS.
Committee Reports
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NOVEMBER 2023
Clubs Australia Report: Vice Presidents Report: President Report:
Apology Apology As per written report to make way for invited guest speakers.
General Business:
Presentation about Smart Rider Academy and the role they have played in the State Govt ‘Ride to Zero’ road safety campaign. Steve McDowall the head of SRA and Julian Davis, trainer with SRA and club member explained their ethos and where the Govt is heading with their rider safety initiatives.
Closed:
8:25 pm, next meeting 2 November 2023
Duncan Bennett
regalia@bmwmcq.org.au
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Regalia Report
he presentation I had prepared for the committee on regalia on the 16th October had one small problem: we weren’t here to give it as we were in Derwent Bridge Tasmania, freezing to death. Could have used a bit more than the ol’ faithful BMWMCQ bucket hat, don’t ask why I hadn’t taken my excellent AH742 wool beanie, “Because I am an idiot” is the only answer I’ve been able to come up with. Never mind, whatever doesn’t kill us just makes us even weaker and more whingy. Checking the calendar for November, we might not be home for the next one either, with an epic ride for “work” to South Australia planned. Still heaps of 100 year stuff available, I’ll bring it along or delegate to whomsoever I can trap before I go away......
Besides the usual regalia, we were proud to launch the official BMWMCQ 100 LoLs* (Leg of Lambs) during October. It easily passed the standard 180°C for 2 hours test, but failed the smothering with mint sauce and red wine enhanced gravy test conducted under ISO 13-245. It had to be completely destroyed with more accompanying red. We’ll keep trying. *The VLoLs Vegan leg of lamb project schedule has
also blown out because of difficulty finding staff and tasters.
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Committee Reports
NOVEMBER 2023
Bill Luyten
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Tools Officer’s Report
i again,
Service Day The Club Service Day was held at Rob Wynne’s place at Jimboomba on 21 Oct. A bit quieter than usual with about 20 members attending. Thanks again to Rob. Sausage sizzle and drinks were sold raising $45 for the RFDS (Royal Flying Doctors). The GS-911 diagnostic tool is probably the most valuable tool we have in our inventory with the amount of electronics on modern BMW bikes. To see what the GS-911 functionality has to offer for your bike, check out this website link: https://www.hexgs911.com/function-chart/ Repair Manuals Two new manuals were recently purchased: F800 - Complete coverage of BMW F650, F700 & F800 Twins (06 - 16) R1200 Liquid- Cooled Twins R1200GS*1170cc*13 - 16 *R1200GS Adv*1170cc*13 - 16 *R1200RT*1170cc*14 - 16 *R1200RS*1170cc*15 - 16 *R1200R*1170cc*15 - 16 Various other repair manuals are available to borrow, mainly for older bikes. Tools for loan There are special tools available including the GS-911WiFi and 3 pin diagnostic tools. Special Tools: • 34mm socket for rotating crankshaft • Twinmax electronic carburetor balancer (Twin BMW engines) • Vacuumate (electronic synchronization of
• • • • • • • • • •
throttle valves up to 4 cylinders) Clutch alignment shafts (3 sizes) Compression gauge (cylinder pressure) Steering head bearing puller and seating tool Gearbox output flange puller GS-911 Wi-Fi Diagnostic tool (Wi-Fi and USB Version) GS-911 3 pin Diagnostic tool (for older bikes) Tyre Pressure Monitor Sensor (TPMS) tool Enduralast hall sensor tester Brake bleeding tool (suction bleeding via the brake caliper) Compression tester
Club Tool Loan: Tools and spares can be picked up or brought along to the next meeting or Club ride. tools@bmwmcq.org.au Bill Luyten 0438 123 747
Committee Reports Darryl Gowlett
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NOVEMBER 2023
13
Treasurer’s Report
’day Everyone,
I just got back from the AGP. What a ride. 4,300 km with 2 days off at the race. Lots of windy roads really kept the G/S motor whirring. This is living!
Financially, with BMWMA’s sponsorship, the 100 year celebrations will be positive, but we haven’t made a donation to the RFDS yet. When the figures are finalised I’ll provide a breakdown. Administration costs are high as we paid $270 for the year of Committee Zoom meetings, $340 for our annual subscription to the magazine editing program, and $870 for the annual subscription of putting our magazine on Issuu. Ciao, Darryl
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NOVEMBER 2023
Greg Gaffney
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Committee Reports Records Officer’s Report
oday I got to claim my last year’s Xmas Party voucher for $100 from Morgan & Wacker. I thought time to get a new set of gloves and while in the store, I found a pair to my liking for $130. To my delight I was offered a generous $30 discount nicely covering the redemption value of my voucher. Thankyou BMWMCQ and thank you Morgan & Wacker. Cheers, Greg
Welcome to New Members: Donal Smith, THE GAP, F900XR Graeme Maizey, TANAH MERAH, R27, G650GS Ray Goss, REGENTS PARK, R90/6 Ruan Kroukamp, MOOROOKA, R100S, R1200GS, Suzuki GSXR750 Hubi Von Moltke, MALENY, R50, R90S, R 100GS PD
A very welcome communication has been received from the Royal Flying Doctor Service QLD (RFDS) following their attendance at the 100 year display. We were advised that as a Club the BMWMCQ have donated in total $16,400. This is greatly appreciated by the RFDS to help carry out the vital work they undertake in providing care for around 330,000 Australians every year. Thank you to everyone who has donated, either by putting change into the tin or attending events that support RFDS (such as Cane Toad Rally).
FROM THE PEN OF JANE
NOVEMBER 2023
SPRINGTIME IN THE COUNTRY JEGOct2023
Riding through the country On these beautiful days of Spring Fresh air under blue skies And hearing birdlife sing Pastures should be greening At this lovely time of year With the onset of El Nino It’s not happening, I fear Fields are brown & dams are low But in one thing you can trust The mighty Jacaranda blooms Even if all around is dust Almost every yard has got one Sometimes three or four The countryside is brightened By their purple flowers galore
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16
NOVEMBER 2023
2023 REGALIA - PRICING UPDATED
Lady Shirts
2LPS - $33.50 65% polyester 35% cotton Bloke Shirts
2LCP - $34.50 65% polyester 35% cotton Comfortable and alluring!
7LPI - $35 ICE Tee - $28.50 100% polyester Cotton Only for those in the A Say Yes to the T! set! Or B set! Who cares!
210 - $33.50 65% polyester 35% cotton
2CP - $35.50 65% polyester 35% cotton
ICE Tee - $28.50 7PIP - $38 Cotton 100% polyester As worn by personnel! Now is the winter of disconTee’s - finished!
Gender Neutral Hats & Bags
Now is its time! AH695 - $18 Bucket Hat Sandwich Design (with trim)
AH715 - $17 Bucket Hat. Not all that gender neutral.
AH230 - $16 Cotton Cap. Cooler than a beanie.
Metro - black/charcoal or black/royal Swiss -$40.40 $25.50 Note: a bag order small surcharge may apply - talk to Daniel!
!
r e m
um S s Ladies Vests It ’ Non-Ladies $56.50 e! Vests $56.50 t a L o To AH742 - $18 100% Wool Beanie
AH770 - $18 100% Cotton Beanie
2023 REGALIA
NOVEMBER 2023
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Club order form for shirts, bags and hats
Send this form to daniel@goldstarembroidery.com.au or call Daniel on 0403 150 857 Name: ___________________________Email address:_________________________ If delivery is required an additional fee is charged. Delivery required Yes or No:______ Delivery address: ______________________________________________________________________ A minimum 50% deposit is required before the order is started. Payment in full is required if Gold Star Embroidery is to organise delivery. An invoice will be emailed after the order form is received. Shirts/Vests order: Shirt product code number
Quantity
Size
Colour
Bags order: Bag product name
Quantity
Colour
Metro Swiss Headwear order: Product code number
Quantity
Size
Colour
Cap AH230 - $15 each Bucket Hat Sandwich AH695 - $17 each Bucket Hat AH715 - $16 each Wool Beanie AH742 - $17 each Cotton Beanie AH770 - $17 each
There are also heaps more colours, styles and fabrics available through Gold Star Embroidery check out the website at goldstarembroidery and call Daniel - he knows all about BMW regalia!
Poster - 60 x 42cm: $5
Key Ring Rubber 38mm: $5
Big Rectangular Sticker Little Round Sticker - 13 x 10cm: $2 - 6cm: $1
Get ‘em while they are hot! 100th anniversary stuff is for sale. An Event pack with one each of all the above is available inc. postage for the bargain price of $25 - don’t wait for the 200th! Contact the Regalia Officer at regalia@bmwmcq.org.au
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NOVEMBER 2023
MOTO ADVENTURE AFRICA
By Cameron Coles, Member #4051 The third episode of Cam’s Africa Safari is now up on YouTube, click the link below to enjoy and please like the video and leave a comment, this really helps. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vOlqpyfnJJg
In this episode Cam and the tour group start at the very very bottom at Cape Agulhas and head due north to the Aquilas Game Reserve. Where they see some game. Excellent footage.
A GOOD READ
NOVEMBER 2023
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By Tony Gray, Member #3905
I
am always on the lookout for books on my favorite topic - motorcycles & the people who ride them. A current edition that caught my eye was ‘The IMMORTALS of Australian Motorcycle Racing’ by renown Australian Motorcycle journalist Darryl Flack. Darryl has set himself up for criticism as anyone does who makes a ‘best of list’ as we all see greatness through different eyes. He has chosen 12 famous Australian Motorcycle racers across the ages and all genres of the sport and written their story. Some of the 12 like Mick Doohan, Casey Stoner, Wayne Gardner, Toby Price are indisputable while some who missed out like two time World Superbike Champion Troy Corser have a solid case for admission. OK so who has Darryl selected for his ‘best of’ list? Road Racing has been the greatest contributor with multi World Champions among the mix. Of the modern era we have Wayne Gardner, Mick Doohan, Casey Stoner and Troy Bayliss. Go back an era to Gregg Hansford and further back to Kel Carruthers, Tom Phillis and Keith Campbell. Heading away from the tar circuits Darryl has selected world champions from different genres of motorcycle racing. Stefan Merriman multiple World Enduro Champion, Jason Crump from the world of speedway, Chad Reed from motorcross and undoubtedly the most well known, two times Dakar Champion Toby Price. The book is well researched and written, presented in hardback form with near 200 glossy pages full of beautiful photographs. I picked up my copy from Big W where it was on sale for 20 bucks - an absolute bargain.
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NOVEMBER 2023
MOTOCAP
By Duncan Bennett, Member #4171
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hile swanning about during the 100th display at Reddacliff Place amongst the marque’s finest, trying to look biker tough and like I owned a 1940’s BMW R75 with sidecar and therefore capable of a serious drive-by, a chap approached. He was wearing a MotoCAP shirt, but bizarrely wasn’t wearing a cap. Definitely not firmly across the fundamentals of his business of selling MotoCAPS I thought. Accentuating the nasty scar on my upper lip to keep up appearances, he couldn’t possibly be aware that it had been caused by falling off the back of a stationary Toyota Crown onto the towball when I was 3 rather than in a vicious knife fight back in the ‘hood. The chap introduced himself as Chris, extending his hand which revealed conclusively that he wasn’t carrying a box of MotoCAPs. He asked if we’d heard of MotoCAP, which I think I actually had but was confused because I only wear BMWMCQ bucket hats due to the Toyota Crown incident which caused most of my hair to fall out 35 years later. Forget caps, MotoCAP is about independently testing motorcycle clothing and helmets using standard methods and equipment. It is an organisation that is supported by government and road safety organisations across Australia and New Zealand, so is particularly pertinent to us and the sort of gear we buy. I assume you can operate a computer, so I won’t plagarise the website information too much, better that you check it out yourself - https://www.motocap.com.au/ - you might find the stuff you wear and hopefully unlike me you will discover it gives good protection to your one and only earthly body. Not talking to Robocop or Colonel Steve Austin there obviously, they had two so could get away with wearing scooter-level protective gear.
A WEEK FOR A CENTURY
NOVEMBER 2023
21
By Anthony Malone, Member #67
hand pin-striping that looked as good as it would have when rolled out of the showroom. Inside was fellow Club member Brian’s Daytona achines have always intrigued me. In the Orange R90S. That model was released in late 1960s (the decade of my birth) I recall 1973, the 50th anniversary of BMW motorcycle seeing a BMW motorcycle. Being shorter at that production. The intention of management was time I noticed that (what I later understood to create a new sporting image to enhance to be) the carburettors were held in place by the staid and dependable reputation these hose clamps; the same as used on the pumps machines had earned from the public (despite down the paddock. I was instantly drawn to the the many successes in competition both solo and essential mechanics of this machine. While I sidecar, and land speed records). A quick note; might not have enjoyed ownership of a BMW to that time the colours of BMW motorcycles until September 1985, from that time I always (generally, and excepting military models) had appreciated their simplistic quality. been black with white pinstriping, or later Which brings us to the point of this piece. The ivory with black pinstripes. This changed after first BMW motorcycle was the R32, unveiled the R90S, and BMW would name its colours, at the Berlin Motor Show in September 1923. identified with a 3-digit code, sometimes after And so, with multiple initiatives (including places of motorcycle competition or otherwise by members of my BMW Motorcycle Club clearly symbolic. of Queensland, the headquarters of BMW Motorrad in Germany, and by BMW dealers and motorcycle lovers all around the World), a set of centenary celebrations were conceived. In Brisbane these kicked off with a 100-year show by Morgan and Wacker at Ross Street Newstead on 16 September, and ended a baker’s week later on Saturday 23 September 2023 with the display of more than 100 BMW motorcycles in Reddacliff Place Brisbane. I shall now take you through the experience.
M
Morgan and Wacker (motorcycle dealers since 1917) became a BMW dealer over 65 years ago (before I was born). My Club has always had a strong connection with that dealership, and so As always, the machines officially on display when it invited BMW motorcycle owners to be were complemented by those of visitors. Almost part of its display on 16 September I was quick every machine there had been personalised in to put my name down. Part of the event was some way, being the point of many conversations a show and shine, and to enter one needed on the day. to spruce up their machine and send some Not only was there the displays and test photographs to be invited to take part in the rides on new machines (including an electric competition (being one of popular choice). I scooter), there was also the live entertainment sent along some pictures of my 1981 R100CS (a solo guitarist) with music admirably suiting (purchased 2nd hand from Phil Beaumont in the tastes of the audience. Anyone who had September 1985), but it did not make the grade. entered a machine was entitled to a 100-year Looking at the effort which had been put into the shirt, and a ticket for a complimentary lunch. machines chosen for the day I understood why. Lining up to get my tucker at the food van, the The collection included a Paris Dakar replica, menu spurred a couple of memories. While I do with its inspiring off-road features. Another not recall the Big Kahuna Burger, if anyone has was a 1978 R100RS, with its original paint and
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NOVEMBER 2023
seen the Quentin Tarantino movie Pulp Fiction, they will understand where I am going. The food was all reminiscent of the movie, and standing back I realised that the van caricaturised John Travolta, Uma Thurman and Samuel L. Jackson, stars of that movie. While Bruce Willis, Tim Roth, Christopher Walken, Harvey Keitel and a host of others were not there, this (to me) made it the most notable part of the day (after, of course, the machines on display).
A WEEK FOR A CENTURY closely, and even though our circuit was a very sedate pace it brought back memories about lines into corners, knowing where the bumps were and braking markers. I was proud to have taken part. Participants broke up for their own rides home. I decided to head to the Mt. Lindsay Highway, knowing that it was now all sealed from Legume, albeit with annoying reduced speed limits to cater for the recent roadworks. This is a road of the type for which BMW motorcycles are made, with wonderful scenery and a range of surfaces, from (the now thankfully far fewer) bumps and narrow passes, to open and wonderful flowing corners. Turning at Rathdowney had me home in good time, another event done.
The next event on the calendar involved an invitation from Ian Milton of Wynnum Marine, sponsor of the Queensland Early Motorcycle Sports Club for members to take part in the 2023 Queensland Historic Road Racing Championships at Morgan Park Raceway on 20 September. This was to be an informal static display and lunchtime parade lap. Around 20 of us met at Aratula to ride through Cunningham’s Gap to the track. It was great to see the competition on the track, and to wander through the pits admiring the competition machines. Being a former road racer, I met up with many old acquaintances. Lunch time rolled around, and having done the things necessary for officialdom (day licence etc.) we were led onto the track by John Downs on his modified R75/5 (/5s were produced from 1969-1973); his enlarged to 1,000cc. Never having competed at this track, but having served as official there for a number of years with my racing Club, the Motorcycle Sportsmen of Queensland, I was not that familiar with the layout. President Tony Gray hurried us riders of the older machines to follow the leader most
Thursday 21 was the gala dinner organised by our Club, to be held at Manly at the premises of the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron. I booked to spend the night at the Manly Marina Cove Motel, which is right across the car (and motorcycle)-park. Arriving early, and after parking my 2023 R1250RT it was pleasant to
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NOVEMBER 2023
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sit by the sea in a much-reduced temperature and the poignancy of this fact to the story was from that experienced further inland that day, immense. and admire the boats at their moorings and A ride led by Club Member Richard Maher was the children in the water enjoying their school scheduled for the next day, Friday 22 September holidays. leaving from the Cleveland Light House at Catering was from 18:30hrs, and with this 09:00hrs. My being a little disorganised that being a more notable event I dressed for dinner morning, Richard conveyed to me the honour as did my companion Donna. Arriving it was of being the “tail-end” for the day. As everyone great to meet with the range of attendees, knows, that is the person for whom the corner including owners from interstate, people from markers wait to know that all of the other Morgan and Waker, and representatives of participants have passed. Again, there were BMW Motorrad Australia. There was a fantastic about 20 machines, with very few pillions. Quite power point display running through the a few participants were from interstate, and evening. The alternate drop entrée, dinner and making sure that no-one was lost became quite desert was to die for, and of the highest quality. important. Richard led us through Burbank After dinner we were addressed by Andreas and through the back-roads of Mt. Cotton to Lundgren, General Manager of BMW Motorrad Beaudesert, and onwards to Boonah which was Australia, who impressed with his knowledge to have been the point for a stop; however due of motorcycling and the BMW product (being to time constraints it needed to be far shorter an active rider himself). We were told of the for that, the destination being the Walloon range of initiatives being undertaken by BMW Saloon for lunch. We arrived a little after 13:00, Motorrad, most notably with the challenges to and were well fed with a pleasant conversation. the future of the internal combustion engine. Richard lives Bay-side, so he guided participants It was very informative, and the next 100 years back to where they were staying. For me it was quite convenient, as Walloon is just down the will be so interesting for all. road from where I live, and so it was a quick ride Also noteworthy was that the power-point home. display behind him showed Elspeth Beard, on her 1974 BMW R60/6 which she rode around the The next day was the one following from the World from October 1982 until November 1984. week just held, the baker’s day. Club members I knew that it was her, due to the top-box and Gary Bennett, Peter Ferguson, and Tony Gray and pannier which she had fabricated and modified their helpers put an amazing amount of effort for her trip. I also recognised the other machine into organising the display of BMW motorcycles in the photograph, a BMW R80/7. That machine at Reddacliff Place in Brisbane. This involved was owned by Robert Albregts, Elspeth’s riding setting up a system of registration, whereby partner since mid-1984 (who probably took the owners and dealers could nominate the machine photograph). I commented on this, as I had that they would like to show, and give a history recently come across a book that Elspeth wrote or stories connected with their machine. For in 2017, Lone Rider, written from her travel myself, I was torn between entering my abovediaries from that trip. I was amazed that she mentioned RT (which is an option 719, special had taken so long to write her amazing memoir, order from Germany and for me being a boxer with its candour and willingness to share such built 100 years after the basic concept was deeply personal information. It is a great read, envisaged by designer Max Friz in 1923, to save and I would commend it to you. The only thing the company from annihilation owing to the I regretted was that during her time in Australia commercial consequences of treaty after the Elspeth did not seem to come across members first war) and displaying my afore-mentioned of our Club, which meeting would have been 1981 R100CS. However, there was a possibility that fellow Club-member Howard Wilson might quite memorable for all! not have his CS in time for the show, and so I should also note that Robert passed away,
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A WEEK FOR A CENTURY
he could collect and ride mine in if his was not war, it had been struck at the rear of the sidecar available. As it turned out his was not ready, chair and rear mudguard by Allied fire and been and he collected mine. I was very proud to have abandoned by the Germans. The Aussies found it, repaired it and used it around camp. At the both machines on display! end of hostilities, it was placed in the back of an On Saturday morning it was out of bed to be in the ambulance, and taken to Australia. I hope that city by about 07:30hrs. A bit of a polish to get rid it will not be reclaimed. of fingerprints, and I rolled in and took my place (chalk marked #114). A bit more polishing, and putting the prepared story about the machine around the handlebar, I then had a look around at what/who had arrived. Neale Gentner is a member from many years ago, and he was displaying his 600cc Rennsport (competition) engine, along with some photographs of the sidecar frame and other things relevant to its history. Neale showed me the incredibly intricate valve adjustment device, with a set of teethed cams changing the clearance, maybe to save that bit of engine width inherent in the boxer twin. My R100CS arrived, went to its chalk spot #80, and Howard reported that it had run well. He compared it to his own, and as he has said before when we swapped rides “it’s the same as mine, only different”. Therein lies the marvel of BMW motorcycles; they are built to last and able to be personalised in many ways. Most are different, but essentially the same in the quality that a motorcycle epitomises. Through the day I spoke with many that I had not seen for quite some time (as had happened at Morgan Park, where the current owner of And that was the end of the week. Thank you what used to be my racing Ducati 851 Superbike very much to everyone who organised and recognising me from my arthritic gait of a brought it together. Without singling anyone former road-racer; asking quite a few questions out, the efforts of Gary Bennett have been about that machine). I also learned more about incredible. the engines of the S specials pre-1969, and how Heading home I felt that I had taken part in a their distinctive rocker covers were due to a series of events that are somewhat historical. greater included angle of the valves, probably (again) to save width of the boxer engine. This There were other events in Brisbane on the information was given by Belstaffed Ian Elliot, last day, and it became clear from the interest a member from many years ago who remains of visitors that in appreciating the benefits of owning a BMW motorcycle, along with true. mechanical intrigue, it could not be said that I The machines on display were of significant amAlone. note. One was a R12 sidecar, painted in sandy desert camouflage. It’s unique story was that while in service in North Africa during the second
LIFE’S INTERSECTIONS
NOVEMBER 2023
25
By Tony Gray, Member #3905
I
saw this cartoon and it took me back to a bygone simpler life where the responsibilities of youth (more lack of) meant no more than keeping your motorcycle on the road on a shoestring budget. The image encapsulates the lifestyle where everything revolved around that motorcycle. I had a mate who owned a 350cc 2 stroke Kawasaki Mach 2 triple cylinder that went like stink when it was running well, which was not very often. It also drank more than it’s owner which was saying something. Just as well these were the days before the oil crisis of the 70s so fuel was cheap. Let’s call my mate John, because that was his name. John was in a share house with several other bikers up behind the Red Brick Hotel at Woolloongabba. If you know the suburb then you will understand the area is not flat and the old Queensland style houses were all propped up on stumps. John’s Kwaka required regular attention so it seemed logical to a couple of 18/19 year olds that it should reside in his bedroom. Getting it there required a deft touch of the throttle or a good push to negotiate the painters plank that we had propped up to the rear porch. Once inside the bedroom the Kwaka took over - the chest of drawers was more likely to store rings & gaskets rather than socks & jocks. The bike took centre stage with the mattress pushed to one side. The only creature comforts were a vice and makeshift workbench. Needless to say John did not have a girlfriend. I now look at internet pictures of ‘collectors’ with their bikes in air-conditioned, carpeted spaces with designer images gracing the walls. I do wonder who had the more fun with their bike?
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NOVEMBER 2023
B2B20
By Duncan Bennett, Member #4171
the traveller away from possible van pathogens. Not that it is that rough or technical, but it is two wheel track so tends to be quiet. Too quiet. n the beginning Don created the route and the So quiet in fact that cows get very lonely up venues. Kate checked them. And they were there, we had to leave our photo stop in a hurry good. because one was staring with moist eyes at Ian Day 1 from Dayboro over Mt Mee, then via the and his magnificent ripped R1250GSA Rallye. now completely sealed Delaney Creek Road to Neurum Road and Kilcoy to CJ’s Bakery for a sausage roll in lieu of the mandatory party pie (not available and still upset about it).
I
But some did not like Don’s route, because there was a lack of loose firmament, i.e. dirt. So they left the group after Kilcoy and ventured into the wilderness, also known as Linville, for a 40 minute lunch. After lunch, and some multiple mind changing by Cindy who for the first time in human history wanted to get to Gympie early, the party of Jurgen, Ian, Richard and I hit the Brisbane River western branch road. I’ve done this more than any other dirt road, but never has it been in such magnificent condition. So smooth it was frankly embarrassing to lead a dirt ride up it, I’ve sent a letter asking the shire council to run a dozer up there and drop the ripper every 100m or so just to make it interesting. Daleks and even worse caravans - will be using it the way it currently is, we need corrugations and pot-holes urgently.
At 26.4°S 152.3°E. In QLD. That’s all we knew. Popping out onto the Kilcoy - Murgon Road, it wasn’t far to Manumbar. A leadership change took effect at this point, no-one was suggesting it was a mutiny, but the deposed leader knew exactly how Captain Bligh felt. Admittedly Captain Bligh probably had a plan for where his ship was going, and Jurgen knew so it was fair that he took over up front. The court martial will decide one way or another. Up Kinbombi Road, there was a moment’s hesitation at the A Flat Road turn-off. Allegedly faster according to the GPS, who assumes all off-road is at Autobahn pace, but given it was likely 6 years since any of us had been up it, we decided to take it easy on the bitumen. Onto the Wide Bay Highway - not sure if that means it is the wide Bay Highway, seems pretty narrow - and through Kilkivan into the Gympster.
Dinner that evening was in The Bunker Smokehouse, with none of the Brisbane Lions fans lighting up a celebratory cigar to turn it into a smokehouse. We re-connected with the Don I wish this photo was fake and Kate bitumen people, sometimes described Onto Manubar Road and along to Porter Road, as a cult by a world renowned psychiatrist, and this turns into great forestry tracks and takes a fantastic night was had.
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Up for another B2B day, thank you Public Holiday Gino was hungry for dirt so followed us to Fairy for not having us ride back to Brisbane. The the Cooyar pub. Kim was about to experience target? Toowoomba. Seat of spring flora, a.k.a. the backlash from the Don Bunya Mountains flowers, the natural enemy of the prone to Hay expedition, later described by traumatised riders as the closest a motorcycle ride in Feverists. Queensland has gotten to Sir John Franklin’s A similar program - everyone headed to Goomeri 1845 North-West Passage experience. With the for breakfast/coffee/gawking at the exact spot minor exceptions that no-one starved or froze Don and Kate’s bike failed a few years back. The to death, and it actually made for excellent plaque describing the drama is very detailed; stories later that night with the gravel on the the emotional trigger warning was appreciated unplanned off-road section getting deeper by many of us. and the Bunya Mountains getting smaller and Again we broke apart; the dirt people’s plan was further away with every telling. that we had no plan, so therefore could not get lost. A general southerly direction was as much detail as needed. Jurgen was again tasked with the front running, and the route was a classic. Down the start of the Kilcoy - Murgon Road, off at Elginvale Road, suddenly we were doing the unthinkable: going south on the Brisbane River western branch road. People had said it was impossible, and to my knowledge only Pope John Paul II had tried it, but we did it. As far as River Road, no sense pushing it. River Road is a cracker, very tight bitumen and steep hills and turns and drop-offs, as close to the Death Road as I’ve experienced in Queensland. Learning from the Flat Tyre Jedi Meanwhile, we had a problem of our own on the Rangemore Road, with Ian’s TPMS indicating a flat front. Tyre Yoda soon turned the problem into an opportunity, giving a demo of his new Rocky Creek Designs Motopressor puncture repair tool - all the essentials in one pocket knife-sized bit of gear. Might have to get one.
The Bitumen Victim’s Lunch at Maidenwell
A roll through the ‘burbs and into the Toowoomba Burke & Wills, with thanks to Lindy for womanning the gate to let us in. Another fabulous dinner and drinks at Fitzy’s, where the atmosphere quickly soured for the Brisbane Broncos fans who also missed out on a celebratory cigar.
Onto the New England Highway, and down onto the democratically-chosen-by-the-supreme- Never mind, it was truly a great weekend and executive-commander Cooyar for lunch, on the the praise for Don and Kate could not be high way miraculously joining up with Kim and Gino enough for their incredible effort in planning who were only prevented from pulling out onto the weekend, with the planned but not actually the highway by us in Yarraman. Space shuttle followed route bits even more memorable. The B2B tradition continues. docking is not as precise.
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NOVEMBER 2023
2024 MOTORRAD NATIONALS
https://www.australia.com/en/places/adelaide-and-surrounds/guide-to-the-barossa-valley.html The BMWOCSA is hosting the National BMW Motorrad Rally from the Big 4 Tourist Park in the township of Nuriootpa in the heart of the famous wine district of Barossa Valley and some great motorbike riding country. Autumn is the best motorcycling weather in South Australia and arguably the best time for travelling around the southern states for BMW Riders. The weather in April is generally sunny days with temperatures between 7 and 26 degrees with only small chance of slight rain showers 4 days in the month. The roads in the area offer magnificent routes including some off /dirt road adventures for those inclined. Offering easy access to some of the better motorbike riding country in Australia especially with the Adelaide Hills, Clare Valley and Flinders Ranges in close proximity. For accommodation within the Tourist Park we recommend that you secure your accommodation early as Cabin options within the Tourist Park will be limited and you may miss out. They do of course have other camping options available.
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To be part of the Rally, you need to do two things: 1. Visit https://bmwocsa.org.au/events to register (available from late November) Registration includes: • Rally pack • Bacon’ Egg Sandwich Breakfast Thursday and Friday Mornings • Wednesday night Welcome Dinner (included) • Join the Thursday night Gala Bistro Dinner (this is a PAYG evening) • Registration cost is $75.00 per person
2. Book your accommodation We recommend either the BIG 4 Barossa Tourist Park or The Vine Inn, Nuriootpa as the more convenient options and you will need to contact them directly to secure your accommodation. TO BOOK ACCOMMODATION Contact details:
1. BIG 4 Barossa Tourist Park, Penrice Street, Nuriootpa - on (08) 8562 1404 OR
2. The Vine Inn, 14-22 Murray Street, Nuriootpa – on (08) 8562 2133 In both cases they have indicated to mention you are with the BMW Rally so they may group participants accordingly. We will also be providing more detail on some events, guided and non-guided rides and optional activities should you wish to bring non-riders along or make this part of a bigger trip.
Get in - Register AND book your accommodation early. So you don’t miss out.
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NOVEMBER 2023
A MONTH in the LIFE of the BMWMCQ
By Tony Gray, Member #3905
S
eptember 2023 will live in the History of the BMWMCQ as a Celebration of the Centenary of BMW Motorrad but club life did not stop at 5pm on Saturday 23 September. October rolled around with B2B #20 with overnight stops at Gympie and Toowoomba over the Kings Birthday long weekend. Don & Kate put in a lot of work planning the weekend right down to the obligatory (written somewhere in the club ride rules) wrong turn, mystery road, bit of dirt adventure routing. Aaah this is what makes Club rides such interesting events. Jane & I had family duties on the Sunny Coast so were only able to join the crew for the Saturday night in Gympie where we had an enjoyable night at the Smokehouse where they served some very enjoyable craft beers - obviously well researched by Don as I would not have believed such a place existed in Gympie, more renowned for its gun shops.
Next morning we had breakfast with Jurgen at the equally pleasant Brown Jug Cafe, a quirky place unsurprisingly filled with brown jugs. We had to return to the Sunny Coast while Jurgen having missed the morning assembly for the rest of the group took off on his trusty GSPD aaaah I’ll catch them OK. I am sure he did. From all reports the ride to Toowoomba and overnight stop were equally enjoyable. Next up was the Sunny Coast Brunch ride to The Barn at Flaxton but unfortunately we had to miss this one as it clashed with a 90th birthday celebration for one of Jane’s aunts. Steve & Mandy Maney always research their venues very well so a good time is guaranteed and this one was no exception by all reports.
The October coffee morning was held at the very popular Preece’s Cafe on the hill at Shorncliffe. There was a very good attendance here with the added bonus of the cheapest fuel in Brisbane along Depot Road Sandgate. Bring your GSA down with the fuel light on and pay for your breakfast with your fuel saving. The same weekend accommodated another overnight camp at Cullendore. Thanks to Gary Bennett for organising this event. I don’t know how he raised the energy after all of the work he had put into the Centenary Bike Display.
The mid-week ride was to The Spit at Lake Somerset with a morning coffee stop in Dayboro. A few of us Southsiders had gone straight to coffee and missed what had been a very interesting ride from the gathering point at Joyner. Mark Mustchin planned and led this ride that was well attended. Silverwood cafe in Dayboro was a good alternative choice to the bakery with fine coffee and plenty of seating. Merv Bone had bought along his K1300/6 Kawasaki and it was a real head turner for every biker passing through Dayboro as we sat enjoying
A MONTH in the LIFE of the BMWMCQ NOVEMBER 2023
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our coffee. The route to lunch also covered a Island. The southern weather caused a program few roads less travelled again reflecting the change at PI so the main event reverted to work that Mark had put into planning the ride. the service day Saturday causing a drop in our numbers.
There was still a lot of work undertaken as well as the usual banter and exchange of ideas. I was particularly impressed but somewhat bemused that Geoff Hamon wore a white shirt and proceeded to change all of the oils on his K75. The shirt bore the Triumph Logo and Bonneville image so one must assume that the Triumph apparel range is completely oil resistant as Geoff left as clean as he had arrived.
At time of writing we still have the club lunch ride to the popular Linville Pub to complete Next up was the ever popular service day the activities for October. at Rob Wynne’s place at Jimboomba. Rob has One can see from this brief summary a great set up on his property including a car of a month in the life of the BMWMCQ how hoist that doubles very well as a sidecar hoist. many people volunteer to put on activities for Rob is a very generous host of these days. Bill the enjoyment of club members. There are Luyten had arranged the day but unfortunately many others working diligently behind the was called away to a funeral at Temora so Chris scenes keeping the wheels turning smoothly Bramwell deputised and did a great job running and the club running efficiently. If you are a the BBQ. new member or maybe a passive member then This quarterly event is usually one of get yourself along to a club event. You will be the most popular on the club calender but warmly welcomed. this month clashed with the MotoGP at Phillip
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NOVEMBER 2023
By Charlie Brown, Member #410
CAPTAIN CONEHEAD
dingo at the pub. Travelled down through Nana Glen to just before Coramba where we turned off onto the road to Dorrigo. The road was very CAPTAIN CONEHEAD AND RIP Van RICHARD twisty, and I enjoyed it. The road turned to dirt RIDE TO THE PUB WITH NO BEER. up in the rainforest but was mostly pretty good. RATHDOWNEY TO TAYLORS ARM. 466Km The sealed section started so we got along at a left home early and rode to Boonah and filled good pace. At a T junction I looked down the road Broomhilda. Down on the Boonah-Rathdowney to catch 3 small cars come out of a road on the Road and it always surprises me as to how pretty right. The last car came out of the intersection the Scenic Rim is. I enjoyed the early morning sideways and raced up to the other two. I gave ride, no traffic, and reached Rathdowney and the road a look as I passed just to make sure set about getting some breakfast. A couple of that nothing else was going to come out and I dim sims and a Solo as Richard turned up and looked back up the road to see the sideways car got a coffee. A quick word on the route and we tumbling end over end. We stopped to help. headed off. One of the young guys in the first car was out Up the Mt Lindsey Hwy past Palen Creek prison and standing beside the upturned car, no shirt or farm and up through the border gate and on shoes, arms wide yelling ‘YEARRR, YEARRR, EPIC to the Summerland Way. I remember this road MAN’. He looked to be off his face. The driver of in the eighties when it was little more than a the rolled car was still in it as they tried to get it goat track. There has been a lot of work done back on its wheels and being shaken around like on it over the years and still going on now. We a rag doll. There were plenty people stopping so got caught at the roadworks at the traffic lights. we rode on to Dorrigo and down the range to Stop and wait, go, have fun for 15 minutes then Bellingen. We were going to cut across through Bowraville but the road was cut at the Kalang repeat, about 5 times. River Bridge. A quick discus and we rode down Apart from that I enjoyed the ride and we got to to the Pacific Hwy and as Richard put it ‘pin our Kyogle in good time. Through Casino and onward ears back’ and get to Macksville. toward Grafton. There was a bit of traffic, but we got past without any problems. Halfway along the road we stopped at a roadside dunny for a slash and all the cars we passed went by. Back on the road we caught up and got past again. Got some nasty looks as we passed. We rolled into Grafton and went looking for some fuel for the bikes and self. Everyone in Grafton was out on the roads in and about South Grafton all off to Bunnings. After riding down a footpath behind some shops we parked the bikes and got Subway for lunch.
I
We were getting some nasty looks from the cages because we each took a parking place each. Stuff em! Lunch over we filled up and headed out of town on the Grafton-Armadale Road for about 5 Km then onto the Orara Way. I love this road and it is a great way to get to Coffs Harbour. Down through forests to Glenreagh and check to see if the police car is in the carport of the police station. I always get a larf from the big
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The bypass around Macksville is a Godsend. I sat was pretty good, and the company was better. in a jam in my Camry, many years ago, of about I tried to get a big bottle of water, but they had 25km on the south side of the traffic lights (that none. In the shower a note on the wall said that was big part of the jam) in Macksville. A man in the water was not fit for drinking. The Publican the right lane yelled at me to let him in front of said it would be ok, famous last words! Back in me. ‘Follow me ‘he yelled. He turned off down the room I put water into the camel back and a track and I followed him along some forestry into the freezer. roads and ended up at the bridge over the river TAYLORS ARM TO GLEN INNES. 439KM all in about 15 minutes. It must have saved me at least an hour. Woke up and had breakfast of toast and jam. Packed the bikes and took a photo of the bikes Anyhow back to the rambling. We filled the in front of the pub. We decided to try the bikes and headed off to Taylors Arm and the horrible road to the Armadale Road. There was forementioned drinking establishment. I had a little loose gravel on some corners but it no never ridden this road and got the usual thrill problems. of riding a new road. Good run to the pub and we booked into the room. Showered and got We got to the Armadale Road and headed west. into the glad rags and went out and talked with Nice run on the twisties over to Bellbrook where some guys who arrived on a bunch of adventure the road had been closed. Richard consulted a bikes. local walking his dog and he said the road was open. We decided to give it a go and pushed They were not impressed with the condition of on. The road was ok apart for the loose gravel the road from the Armadale Road to the Pub. on some of the creek crossings, but the big Up to the pub for dinner and raving. The food problem was the 4X4’s. One came toward us at
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CAPTAIN CONEHEAD
a one lane bridge creek crossing and wouldn’t the lookout without looking out. I gave it a blast and all in the thing turned and stared at me move over. including the dogs and driver which caused the Typical wanker four by driver, in Camo T-shirt thing to drift into the oncoming traffic. Horns baseball cap and mirrored aviator sunnys and sounding and the thing jumped back onto the a toothpick in his teeth. The ride up the range correct side of the road. I got past and headed was very enjoyable and the dirt was pretty off to catch Richard. good as were the views. At the top the road straightens and undulates across the top of the range. I rode up this way about 2005 I think, on the Dreadnought (XTZ Super Tenere) and was giving her a push along having fun on the top road. A Landcruiser was flashing its lights and he was waving me down. I slowed and over the next rise was “The Man” pointing the revenue raising device at me. Cheeky buggers. No Fuzz this time and we got to the Grafton-Armadale Road without any hassles. We headed to Ebor and played with the cars we came up behind. At Ebor we decided to fuel up before we rode down the range. The road was great except for the huge potholes right on the riding line. Rolled into Grafton at lunch time and found somewhere to eat at a hipster café. Honestly it had more manbuns than a Vietnamese bakery. I decided against the Holistic omelette with spring onion picked in the moonlight by barefoot virgins, oh and On a long straight I was going to blast past a car smashed Avo. WTF is it with smashed Avo on but up ahead there was a car coming the other everything including smashed Avo! Man, it way. I could have gunned the bike and got past tastes and looks like cold snot. Just saying. I but decided to err on the side of caution. The car decided on a bacon and egg roll with tomato was an NSW Highway Patrol car so lucky I didn’t sauce. ‘Youwansmashedavoonthat’ she said. I gun it past. The NSW cars have nothing on their told her no and that I hated it, I thought the staff bonnets and the light rail looks like roof racks. were going to get the stake and hammer and Sneaky buggers! So, into G.I. and we found a chase me down the street. good motel (the Central Motel Glen Innes on The thing arrived and the bacon was so Mead Street) that was bike friendly. We went cremated that it burst into dust when I bit into for a walk up the main street and found a book it. Shouldn’t have had the rant about smashed shop in an old bank building. I had a good root around in the stacks, there is a certain smell with snot, sorry, Avo. second hand bookstores that I find compelling. Back on the bikes and on to the Gwydir Highway I found a copy of Berry on Bikes that I bought and headed to Glen Innes. This is another and a book on setting up trials bikes in the 50ies favourite road of mine and many years ago and 60ies. Unfortunately, it was $100 so I left Peter Ferg and I had a fantastic ride down the it. Back out on the street we walked back to range. I have ridden down it many times but the motel. The lady in the office suggested we never ridden up the range. Bloody good fun. have a pizza from the shop in the main street. We were getting through the traffic ok, but I got Back down to the main street and we ordered a caught behind a Tarago thing that pulled out of small pizza each. While they were cooking, we
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went to the supermarket and got some after We rode down the highway and to Tenterfield dinner munchies. Pizzas picked up and back to and onto Stanthorpe to visit Comrade Rick. We the room. I got a supreme and it was very very spent a pleasant hour or so with the Commissar talking about old times. We decided to come good. home on the Mt Lindsay Highway which is a GLEN INNES TO CASA CHARLIE. 373KM great ride as its all sealed apart a 5km stretch Woke early and the pub rainwater in the starting South of Willsons Downfall. The council camelback was letting me know that the “Not fit is doing a great deal of work on the highway for drinking” sign in the shower was right. It was between Legume and Koreelah and it will be a like industrial strength Draino going through me. good road when finished. We had a great time Microwaved the left-over pizza and it still very through the border ranges and on the White good. Back for another session with the Draino Swamp Road to Boonah. At the Boonah School then packed the bike. We decided to stay off the we pulled over and said goodbyes. Richard took highway and take backroads where possible. the Beaudesert Road, and I went straight up Rode up past the airfield to Emmaville. In 1988 through Peak Crossing to the Brown domicile at as I was riding home from Canberra, I was struck North Ipswich. Unpacked the bike, put the dirty by lightning just past G.I. A bus full of footballers clothes in the wash and gave the bike a wash. saw it and took me and the bike to the hospital. All in all, a couple of days good riding and good The doctor said that he would keep me overnight company. Can’t wait for next year. even though I was uninjured. I said that they would have to call RAAF Amberley and tell them I wouldn’t be at work at 1SQN in the morning. The police came and took my details and said that they would take care of it. This is where it started to go wrong. The doctor said I could go home but go to my doctor in the morning. I reached home in Ipswich about 01.30 had a shower and bed. At 7am next morning I was at the medical centre and explained what had happened last night. I was suddenly surrounded by irate medical staff of all ranks. Seems that I had destroyed their works outing as they were going to fly to Glen Innes to get me. The night before Glen Innes police called Armadale then Armadale called Newcastle who called Sydney who finally got onto the Duty Officer in Canberra. The final message was ‘there is a bit of charcoal at G.I. hospital with a RAAF ID and a heartbeat, come and get it’. The RAAF had put the CASEVAC PACK in the back of a C130 and it was in the air and on the way to Amberley while they were obtaining permission to land at G.I. airport. Any how it was decided that it was a good exercise. Ok back to the story. I love the Australian back roads as you never know what you will see. We rode up to Emmaville through typical New England countryside. Through the town and on to the New England Hwy at Deepwater.
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HERE’S THE SKINNY!
By Cindy Bennett, Member #4170 The day of the BMWMCQ Service Day there was another event I had already signed up to (isn’t that always the way!) and that was a Ladies Adventure Motorcycle Maintenance Day at Skinny’s Garage in Bowen Hills. About a dozen ladies and our adventure bikes headed to Skinny’s for a 9:00 am start and Manager Alex explained how the morning would progress – an intro from him and a run through of the ideal tool kit to carry was the first order of business. Next came a demo of changing a tubed tyre with time for practice, then Alex showed how to pick up the bike safely when it has has a lie down. Skinny’s has 4 bike lifts, so we all had turns with our bikes on the these with the mechanical team running through the basic maintenance items to check at home and areas to pay particular notice to relevant to our own machines – this was fantastic and I got assistance to re-affix my back reflector. There were were some familiar faces, such as Evangeline with her F650 GS and new member Erin on her newly acquired F700 GS. Other bikes included a Tiger (yep, mine) a Tenere, XT250’s , Royal Enfield Himalayan, KLR650 and a Huski. This session was well worth the $30 investment, and lots of socialising with the interesting adventure riding gals was a bonus. A bit about the concept of Skinny’s Garage – they operate on a subscription system with different levels starting from Social, and increasing to Service and Fabrication levels. This would be a real benefit to those who live without an onsite workshop or want to undertake a bike project with expert help on hand. They are represented virtually at Skinny’s Garage if you are interested in further info.
HERE’S THE SKINNY!
Some maintenance essentials covered at Skinny’s Garage for the Women’s Adventure Wrench Day recently including changing a tubed tyre (bloody hard work), what should be in a basic off-road toolkit, and checking our bikes over on the hoist.
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NOVEMBER 2023
MILEAGE AWARDS
Introducing……Club Mileage Awards Have you clocked up 100,000km, 200,000km or more on one bike? To celebrate the epic achievements of these milestones, the Club will be issuing Mileage Award Medallions and Certificates to those who qualify. It can be for any make and model of bike that has reached these impressive kilometres in your ownership, and must still be in your ownership. To nominate your bike, email our Secretary, Geoff Hodge on secretary@bmwmcq.org.au with: • Photo of the bike or you with bike - this photo will feature on your certificate so a good quality photo will enhance the certificate • Where and when purchased and mileage at time of purchase • Photo of the odometer to show the kilometres. Presentations at the monthly meetings for those that live locally – so get your details in!
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Almost used this as the cover shot. Mario Grossi finally accepting his 10 year membership certificate and badge - a mere 3 years late due to his and Fiona’s time in Extended Caravan Detention during Covid.
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NOVEMBER 2023
Those Dam Mid-Week Rides... By Anthony Malone, Member #67
O
ne of the benefits of my current situation is that I am able to freely take part in more of the activities offered though membership of our Club. The best of these is the mid-week rides, which are for the retired types and start at more civilised times, avoiding the traffic congestion that each weekend seems to bring. They also help one discover roads that one may have pondered in the past, and decided to explore at a later time. And so meeting at Bullocky’s Rest at Joyner on Wednesday 18 October 2023 to be led by Mark Mustchin to Somerset Dam seemed to be an adventure worth taking part in. Having a general idea of the meeting point, but not being entirely sure I decided to take my R1250RT and rely upon its navigation. This worked pretty well, and while I took the path I wanted rather than what GPS told me, the estimated time of arrival grew closer. In the end it wanted to take me for a half-hour ride, when in fact I was about 100 metres away from the meeting place. Mark was there, and after waiting until the prescribed time for departure (09:00 for 09:15hrs) a few more turned up, 6 in total.
MID-WEEK RIDE REPORT
I took a short walk to prepare for the ride, and a lady walking through the park commented that it looked like I rode a horse. I should have said giddy-up, but was too courteous for that. I volunteered to be tail end marker (I think that this is important for all led rides, and more on that below), and Mark led us back towards Samford along Winn Road, turning left up to Clear Mountain. There are some magnificent views from here out to Moreton Bay, and the surrounding bush. Eatons Crossing Road took us to the Mailmans Track down into Samford. I had ridden this road quite a few times before, but in the opposite direction, and so it was interesting to find what were uphill corners with nice camber turning to downhills with negative camber! I keep my traction control at the pro level, and (although I was not riding quickly) if it were set at lower levels the anti-lock braking might have intervened on a number of occasions, making me less sure of my mount and confident in my ride. Mark led us through Samford, and left onto Old Mt. Samson Road. I had often meant to explore this part of the country, and now saw what I had been missing. Lovely views back to the mountain ranges, and some really nice corners on roads that were built for BMW motorcycles. We found ourselves back at Kobble Creek, rejoining the Mount Samson Road. Then Mark led us up Kobble Creek Road around the Armstrong Creek area, and once more I relished these corners. Some wonderful creek crossings (one of which had a wonderful pool of water upstream, and I saw some steps down into that. It looked like it might have been a park of some sort, but riding along showed it to be private property. Some people are so lucky! Back in the main road and it was into Dayboro for our first stop. I needed some fuel, and having gassed up pushed my machine to park outside the Butter
MID-WEEK RIDE REPORT
Factory (where there was a coffee shop). A passing fellow asked if I needed help with my machine, thinking it might have broken down; but I just told him that I was doing my bit for global warming. There are a few attractions in this Butter Factory (galleries for local artists, fashion etc.) and I will be going back to Dayboro for a better look sometime later. Surprising that I had not noticed this before, so many rides leaving from this village. I should also mention that the coffee was terrific. 3 riders and one pillion joined our group. This included a most interesting 1982 Kawasaki 1300 six, quite rare and beautiful. The ride took us over Mt. Mee and down to D’Aguilar. Mark was going to show us the Mary Smokes Road, and this was another one of those places that I had often wished to explore, but would only do so on something which might better handle unsealed roads should they be encountered. Permanent traffic closure gates showed that this was an area which would flood in heavy rains, being headwater country. We ended up at Mt. Kilcoy, passing the State primary school. I noticed their rugby football field, and wondered if that had been cut out of the hill by locals quite some time ago. We then passed a significant waterway, which I thought might have been the headwaters of the Brisbane River, but Paul Hughes told me was Stoney Creek. We entered Kilcoy to its western side, and back streets had us on our way to Somerset. One of our number left us at this point, returning to the North Coast. One of the riders stopped at the service station (for a bit of food I expect, something which I had forgotten about), and as tail end I waited until he rejoined. This is the benefit of corner marking, as one is not always sure on how the general direction will be carried out in practice.
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We carried on towards Blackbutt, turning left at the marked corner towards the Dam. This is another wonderful ride. Mark took us down to the Spit, and the remaining participants parked along the roadway. I know that this place becomes quite popular on weekends, with many boats and water-skiers present. Fortunately, there were few there when we arrived, and parking space abounded. I am a little cautious about where I park my machine, and try to find level ground. For this reason, I was a little removed from the group, but joined them under one of the (many) seated covered areas. The group chatted for quite some time, and I regretted not having something to eat (but enjoyed my espresso coffee from my thermos, along with the chocolate Tim-tams that Mark offered). Vehicles started to arrive with towed boats. And then it was our rides home, there being many options as to which way to go. Mine was back to Ipswich, so it was along the road towards Mt. Glorious and Fernvale. While the company of others on these rides is fantastic, I like to reflect on the experience on the way home when I amAlone.
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SMART RIDER ACADEMY
At the October General Meeting Stephen McDowall, Director and Chief Instructor of SMART Rider Academy and our own Julian Davis (instructor with SMART Rider) spoke about the alliance with BMWMCQ to assist us in securing funding for “Ride to Zero” which involves rider training from the recently announced QLD Government StreetSmarts initiative. More information on this exciting initiative will be provided soon, but the basics are: • Up to 100 participants trained over 1 year with our partner organisation (SMART Rider). • $50 investment per rider, the rest of the cost will be covered by the training subsidy. • Participants do not have to be BMWMCQ members, but preference will be given to Club members.
The Restoration of an Icon Part 6
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Building a Richthofen 750 or the creation of a Franken R75/6 Part 6. Oi! Pull ya finger out - I am sick of excuses! By Christopher Robertson, Member #243
OK the house is clean (well sort of), all the emails are answered and your home work is done! Enough with the procrastinating and time get moving. This last month a delay crept in. As noted in Part 5, I decided I would replace the crank gear. Now I ordered a new one through Munich Motorcycles. However, these are a backorder item, taking around 2-3 weeks. Now as a result of this a pattern of slack working habits became evident: continue baking soda blasting the motor alloy bits; starting working on a design for the dash; anticipate and commence assembly of the motor.
Photo 2: A comparison between old and new pistons. Note the carbon build up on the old piston. Funny, even as late as 2015, I was running my race car on avgas (105+ octane) (I had a permit to use it – trust me - honest) but, I never put it in the bike, tempted as I was, so that was pump fuel. From memory, I took the bike off the road in c1996/7 when I got the R100RS. Part 5 covered the fitting of the new cam gear and bearing. Fitting the new crank gear and bearing was a little harder task then just fitting steel into aluminum, as both parts (crank and gear & bearing) were of steel. I decided to heat the gear and then use the Cycleworks special tool both for the gear and bearing fitting (refer photo 3). I have said it once and will say it again, you need the special tools for this sort of work.
Photo 1: Nice shiny bits – Baking soda blasting works a treat. The rest of the soda blasting took a morning and as per Photo 1 we ended up with quite a shine. However, I did find a mud wasp’s nest in the timing cover. Hard as a rock it was and many, many season’s old. Jesus! How long was it when it was last running? Photo 2 will give you an idea. The piston removed from the bike when I stripped the motor clearly shows the bike was running on leaded fuel.
Photo 3: Gear assembly and Cycleworks tool.
Initially I tried heating the gear up to 120 deg C, Now the good Google guide for idiots such as me but it stopped pressing on very quickly. I then discloses that “Leaded petrol was completely pulled the gear off and reheated it to 175 deg C phased out of Australia after 1 January, 2002. – it went on like butter on the crankshaft. Same
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The Restoration of an Icon Part 6
as the bearing. Heat made a big difference. A smaller circlips. To be honest I tried the larger fine balance in heat was needed. clip, but it was just too elusive to fit. In any event Brooks uses the two circlips method, stating this Now to the tricky bit – the cam chain, however, is what he used doing the Mercedes motors in firstly, but not lastly, the valve timing had to be a past life. Besides I reasoned if one fails then spot on. After reading much about it, looking at there is the other circlip to prevent the chain the gears, both old and new and the position of from coming adrift when racing. the cam and crankshaft, now both in position, I decided on the following: Now having tested the motor by winding it over a few times and finding the marks realigned it • Ensure the flywheel mark was aligned with was time to move onto the motor assembly. the crankcase (refer photo 4). Regarding this assembly there were three points Photo 4: Valve of which I was rather pensive, and these are:
timing and chain tensioners in place.
1. Alignment of the barrel and pushrod tubes. 2. Whether having had to get Tighe Cams to make and machine the cylinder head rocker head mounts, whether there was enough length in the push rods to enable adequate working with the rockers and tappet clearances? (Refer Part 4). 3. Whether the piston height, in consideration of the need to relocate the barrel with a groove machined in the block (Also refer Part 4) would hit the valves?
Also in consideration of these three points above, I remind the ever-suffering reader do not • Check the mark on the new crank gear (these forget we are in reality dealing with 3 models are marked) and are located around 90 deg of motors: R75/5; R75/6 (pre and post 9/1975); to the woodruff key on the crank. I marked and, the R80 updates. Though looking similar, this gear with white marker. the practical conclusion is that sometimes the parts to the motors are not interchangeable. • Camshaft mark already existed. I also marked this gear with white marker. Now taking the three points above into consideration and noting the visual position of the crank and camshaft (the former being at Top Dead Centre on no:1 and the latter with both valves closed, and with the flywheel at its correct point. I threaded the new chain on. Now for the fun part – putting on the chain circlips. Now both sites I looked at called this exercise “tedious.” OMG that was an understatement. What a bastard of a task as the clips are put on the side of the double chain facing the block!!!! Now there are two options for circlips. One single horseshoe style circlip, or utilizing two
Photo 5: Old barrel weigh in 3.750 kg.
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over the piston and along the cylinder bolt. I then proceeded to fit the pushrod grommets and align the barrel. However, it transpired that I had cut one of the pushrod tubes too short. Damn! I removed and refitted another tube. I will have to buy another set now - first mistake on this job). There was also a need to align the angle of the tube between the block and barrel. This I finally managed to do, but time will tell whether it is oil tight. (Refer Photos 7 and 8). Once this was done the barrel lined up perfectly and slid easily into the machined grove.
Photo 6: New barrel weigh in 2.745 kg. Now just before we start on these three above I refer you to photos 5 and 6. As evident this is the weight in of old and new barrels for comparison. As you can see there is just over 1kg weight saving each - that is an incredible 2kgs+ of weight saved on the motor! Quite a weight saving in racing motor terms. One can therefore surmise, that while using a newer barrel provides greater reliability, it also has great weight saving advantages. What would KTM give too lose 2kgs odd from Miller’s bike? The conrods were fitted first along with new big end bearings, and bolts (a must). All parts used came from Munich Motorcycles. A further comment on weight regarding the conrods is just how close the original factory ones are to be being balanced (I refitted those even though racing ones are available – perhaps at a later date? Ouch! $1200 with postage!) with L/H (looking from the front) being 629 grams and the R/H being 630 grams. Wow that is close. 1. Alignment of the barrel and pushrod tubes. One of the problems I faced was that with the R80 heads and barrels I was forced to upgrade the R75 push rod tubes (15.8mm) to the R80 (17.8mm). It therefore followed that this necessitated enlarging the pushrod grommets. To a degree this went alright. It was however initially hard and awkward to measure and align these tubes. Regardless I decided to proceed. I then fitted the piston and rings and slid the barrel
Photo 7: Pushrod tube cut too short (FYI The Memsaab dared me to admit this stuff up)!
Photo 8: Pushrod tubes and grommets now in place. 2. Cylinder head rocker head mounts. We came very close to having the right height for the mounts, only being about 2-3mm short for comfort. We needed to ensure there was sufficient adjustment for tappet clearances. There were two options: machine down the rocker arm, ensuring their weight was equal for balance; or, space under the rocker bridge. I opted for the latter to ensure the rockers
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maintained their strength. To this end I placed spacers under the rockers (refer Photo 9). This result gave plenty of room for tappet adjustment. Once these were fitted we were then ready to test the piston height relative to the valve movement.
Photo 9: Rocker location and spacers.
The Restoration of an Icon Part 6
valves. Nothing appeared to be binding by touch and the valves opened easily and closed very smoothly. Once I removed the cylinder head and looked at the results (refer Photo 10), rightly or wrongly I deduced the following: • None of the Plasticine stuck to the valves. So, one can surmise no pressing pressure in there. • The valves had touched into the 3mm level, particularly on the inlet side, but it had not completely gone through the Plasticine, in fact there was still a great deal (around 2mm) left on the surface. • I tried it with two head gaskets for greater combustion chamber clearance, but there as not much difference in disturbance level of the Plasticine.
Photo 10: No not an ink card psycho test, but Plasticine on top of the piston.
3. Piston height. An old racing trick is to place Plasticine (around 3mm) on the top of the piston, bolt everything together, reset the tappets and spin the motor over. These actions were done and the cylinder head was again removed. This process would show if the valves were hitting the pistons. The inlet valve is much bigger than the exhaust valve. Now these are my observations. I remember talking to the Dean Tighe, from Ivan Tighe Engineering, who was surprised just how much tension the twin valve springs had in the cylinder heads supplied from Moorespeed. Far too much he responded, citing that modified 2.0L pinto (Cortina) motors only have one spring with less spring tension.
Now what has been playing around in my mind is that: the motor turned over without any binding; the Plasticine was not totally removed and did not stick to the valves; the motor is not an overhead cam motor, but a “hotted” pushrod Now I thought about that comment as I wound motor where the tolerances are set very fine. over the motor testing the clearances of the Thus, the additional spring tension is to prevent
T he R estoration of an I con P art 6
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any valve bound at high revolutions that might tap the piston. These motors are very common on the racing scene in Europe and the UK, so have been well tried and tested. Conclusion? At this stage I am happy with it, enough so, to proceed. However, I will check the R/H side when assembling it and determine if my initial assumptions are correct. Next step is to assemble the R/H side of the motor when the new pushrod tube arrives (read grrr), doing all of the above again, then the timing cover, sump, sump spacer and oil pump, and clutch will go on. The motor and clutch will then be fitted, then the bike requires two new front exhaust pipes to be made (will discuss later). Then comes the electrical and bodywork. Immediately churning away in the background, I have backordered a complete clutch lever assembly, started building the dash, instruments and switch gear; and of course, sourced where I can other bits for fixing those jolly front brakes. Note photo 11 as a teaser.
Photo 11: Motor mockup tease - with large dellorto carb mounted. Any questions or comments or abuse only too glad to receive them. Thanks to those that have given me kind feedback already. Contact details below. And as we know and say “…much, much more pain and enjoyment to come…” Yours in the saddle, Chris PH: 0403 868 375 christopheroberston@bigpond.com
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CLUB TRAINING SUBSIDY
BMWMCQ TRAINING COURSE SUBSIDY
our club encourages all members to continue to improve as a rider and offers a financial incentive to foster greater uptake in rider training. A broad interpretation of training has been adopted to include First Aid Training and Traffic Accident site safety management. The intention of the subsidy scheme is to not only improve the road craft of individual members but also to enhance the safety and enjoyment of club runs and events for all participating members. These are the simple rules to qualify for a subsidy: 1.
Every financial member is eligible.
2.
Subsidy is limited to one in three years for each member eg subsidy February 2022 reeligible February 2025.
3.
Subsidy provided in the form of a $50 reimbursement after course has been completed and invoice presented to the Treasurer.
4.
The applicant must present details and receive approval for the intended training course from the Club Secretary prior to the course being undertaken.
There you have it, an incentive to help to make you a better and safer rider. If you undertake a course please let us know your thoughts on the success of the course, positive or negative.
Tony Gray - President BMWMCQ
https://streetsmarts.initiatives.qld.gov.au/motorcycles/ StreetSmarts and Ride to Zero is the QLD Government initiative which has a very good website. It even includes a Quiz which asks a whole lot of relevant questions. I got 9/10, a small hint is if the multiple choice answers include “Go and buy a more powerful bike”, then it isn’t strictly correct.
FOR THE AIRHEADS
NOVEMBER 2023
https://www.mmmsbmwboxerworks.com.au/
Below is a link for the Wedgetail Ignition Systems Australia FB site. https://www.facebook.com/ wedgetailaustralia
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ADVERTISING & BMW SUPPORTS
Confirmation has been received that BMWMCQ Members are eligible for a 10% discount on accessories at Morgan & Wacker. Customers are required to show proof of membership at the time of purchase!
ADVERTISING & BMW SUPPORTS
NOVEMBER 2023
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Brisbane BMW Motorcycle Specialists Need your BMW motorcycle serviced? We can also help ensure your pride and joy stays in top nick. Northside Motorcycle Tyres and Service has the latest software for BMWs enabling us to re- set service reminders, and assist with diagnostic testing and component testing making it more efficient to solve any problems with your bike. Log book servicing which won’t void your warranty. Book in for a BMW motorcycle service today with our expert team and you can be confident that Your pride and joy is in good hands.
BMW Motorcycle Tyres & Accessories Planning on hitting the road soon? Stop by our showroom to check out our great range of tyres, luggage bags and riding gear to suit Adventure or Sport Touring.
FREE BMW Motorcycle Safety Inspection Report But perhaps more importantly, be prepared before you head off! Book in for your FREE safety inspection report. This simple check can mean the difference between a hassle-free ride versus getting stuck on the side of the road with no phone coverage a long way from the nearest town. SHOP ONLINE FOR ALL YOUR MOTORCYCLE TYRES & ACCESSORIES WITH THE ADDED BENEFIT OF AFTERPAY “BUY NOW, PAY LATER” HTTPS://NSMCTYRES.COM 1/14 Paisley Drive Lawnton Qld 4503, Phone 07 3205 6505 Email info@nsmctyres.com
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NOVEMBER 2023
Very Useful Services & Cool Stuff
Call now for our frEE parts CataloguE
Genuine & Aftermarket parts (from 1955 onwards) • Accessories • Australian Agent for Hepco & Becker Luggage Systems and Crash Bars Electronic Ignition Systems Unit 5&6 / 9 Hayden Crt Myaree, Perth, 6154 Western Australia
www.munichmotorcycles.com.au TrAde enqUiries WelCoMe (open till 7pm est.)
Phone: 08 9317 3317 Fax: 08 9317 3359 email: munich@iinet.net.au
ADVERTISING SPACE AVAILABLE From business card to full page, all sizes are available. The BMWMCQ electronic journal is distributed to members and interested parties throughout Queensland and basically anywhere that has the internet. In addition, the journal is issued to other BMW affiliated Clubs. The Good Wool Store Unit 5, 2 Brown St Kiama, NSW check out the website..... www.goodwool.com.au or Phone (02) 4232 4312
Get your message out to people who own, ride and restore BMW motorcycles. Phone your requests to -
Don Grimes - Ph: 0411 601 372
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THE LAST WORD
NOVEMBER 2023
Sporty Spice comes to visit! By Cindy Bennett, #4170
T
he 30,000km service of my Tigresa was due around the time of the B2B20, so I duly booked her into Team Moto Springwood - my preferred dealer - for Wednesday the following week. The last service at about 20,000km had been in Foz, Brazil and she had done some hard miles since as well as a 99 day sea journey back home. A new chain and sprockets was well overdue, so in she went on my way to work. Team Moto Springwood arrange awesome loan bikes, and this time was no exception - an almost new (800km on the clock) F750GS Sport! I only had a less than 10 minute ride to work at Logan Central so was a bit sad that my ride of it would total only 20 mins for the day!
casual method. The take-off from stopped was sprightly (sporty even), with the quick-shift needing a bit of getting used to as it has a different feel entirely to the Tiger. So day 2 and I commuted down to Logan on her and what I loved upon arrival at the office was the keyless start with key remaining in jacket pocket. Triumph need to get on-board with this for the Tigers. The TFT screen is more intuitive than the Triumph one and shows important stuff without fiddling about for hours to get the optimal display set-up. I have ridden the regular version F750GS previously and I would have to say that this Sports model seems lighter, with a higher up weight distribution which I am not a big fan of. I am not sure that I would venture off-road on the Sports model, even though it has all the right modes to do so. In conclusion, it is a beautiful looking bike and the colour scheme I had would be my pick. The seat was comfy and it had a lot of get up and go. I also enjoyed the keyless start and the TFT display. Would I change my Tiger for one? No is the answer to that. Maybe it’s familiarity but the lower down weight distribution on the lighter Tiger 900 feels steadier overall. However, if I still had the Tiger 800 then it would be a coin toss decision.
However, fate intervened in the unavailability of a rear sprocket which was coming from Triumph HQ in jolly old England. Prognosis - at least 3 days, maybe longer. Well, well well this will certainly allow a longer ride and review of this fine steed who I had christened Sporty Spice on my ride home in high winds to Manly West. First up, compared to my Tiger it is a tall bike. I could only put one foot down at a time and stops did need more thought than my usual
THE LAST WORD
NOVEMBER 2023
Duncan’s lonely Tiger amongst 3 Beemers!
BMWMCQ BOOK EXCHANGE NEW BOOKS AVAILABLE!
Race to Dakar Charley Boorman Extreme Frontiers Charley Boorman (Racing Across Canada) What If I Had Never Tried It Valentino Rossi (The Autobiography) The Road to Mali Craig Carey-Clinch No Room for Watermelons Ron & Lynne Fellowes A Motorcycle Courier in the Great War Captain W.H.L. Watson Australia Motorcycle Atlas With 200 Top Rides (6th Ed) Hema Maps Overland Magazines - issue #’s 11; 19; 21; 22; 25; 26; 27; 28 and 29. Adventure Bike Rider - issue #’s 44; 46; 51 and 53 The Touring Motorcycle Jeff Ware & Kris Hodgson BMW Twins Mick Walker BMW Boxer Twins Ian Falloon
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Tigresa up on the hoist at Skinny’s
BMW Motorcycles Bruce Preston A Century of BMW Manfred Grunet & Florian Triebel The BMW Story - Production & Racing Motorcycles Ian Falloon Bahnstormer - The Story of BMW Motorcycles LJK Setright BMW Company History 1972 BMW Munich Berry on Bikes - The Hot 100 - Steve Berry 2UP and OVERLOADED 2 x On Tour with Compass Expeditions DVDs
The initiative is being overseen by Jane Gray and you can communicate with Jane via email at: library@bmwmcq.org.au Arrangement can be made with the librarian to pick up & drop off at the monthly General Meeting or other arrangements can be made.