Cycle Torque Jan/Feb 2017

WELCOME

cycletorque.com.au JAN/FEB 2017 I 2

January/February 2017 Happy New Year! Welcome to the combined January/February issue of Cycle Torque.

A big shout-out to everyone who has sent us feedback and/or letters from the last issue. We value everyone’s opinion and look forward to hearing from you in the future. Write to feedback@cycletorque.com.au - it’s simple.

On the cover of this issue is KTM’s new 450 EXC-F: is it better? You better believe it.

We look at Ducati’s Hypermotard 939, it’s hyper alright. But it’s also a bit of a surprise packet. Read the test to find out more.

Also tested is BMW’s R NineT Scrambler - straight from its new Heritage range, and the Yamaha Super Ténéré. These are two bikes with different capabilities aimed at getting different markets to do roughly the same thing - to have a serious amount of fun on the road and get dirty.

We have some pretty important news for the upcoming year too. Find out how you can consume Cycle Torque in 2017.

Smarty previews Australia’s upcoming off-road race season, Flack looks back throughout Valentino Rossi’s career, now in its 21st year and I give you a New Year’s resolution to think about.

I hope you enjoy the issue.

– Ryan Grubb Digital Editor

EMAIL US YOUR FEEDBACK feedback@cycletorque.com.au

WWW. NEWSLETTER

TAP ICONS TO EXPLORE

CONTENTS

cycletorque.com.au JAN/FEB 2017 I 3

Ridden

TEST DUCATI HYPERMOTARD 939 23

TEST KTM 450 EXC-F

TEST YAMAHA SUPER TÉNÉRÉ

Features

Regulars

33

62

TEST BMW R NINE T SCRAMBLER 52

2016 BMW GS SAFARI

42

5

NEWS TORQUE

14

SMALL TORQUE

71

QUAD TORQUE

18

EDITORIAL

78

BOOK SHOP

19

DIRTY TORQUE

21

RACE TORQUE

74

BIKE STUFF

81

MARKET TORQUE

86

TORQUE BACK - LETTERS

On the cover: Photos by Paterson, Grubb and Pickett.

It’s not where you’re going ...

It’s how you get there.

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NEWS TORQUE

cycletorque.com.au JAN/FEB 2017 I 5

Big Changes at Cycle Torque 2017 will see lots of changes to Cycle Torque, and I hope you like them.

Firstly, we’re going to be digital first – you will be able to find most of our news, tests, features, articles and columns published first on the website. This will sync instantly with RSS feeds which you can view on your device – through apps Apple News or feedly - before they make it to the magazine.

The magazine will continue as a monthly in its digital editions, which will combine to create a print version every second month.

Still available free from better bike shops around the country, the print version will be fatter and, importantly for our advertisers, we can print more copies when we do them every two months.

The digital editions continue to grow in popularity. The iPad version is the most popular, because it’s got more photos, is very easy to read by rotating to vertical (where it just shows the words, in a large font) and has live links, is easy to share and integrates with our videos. The iPhone version is popular because it’s really convenient, it fits in your pocket. Download the app from the App Store.

Android users can subscribe to Cycle Torque’s RSS feed using an app called ‘feedly’ (there’s others too), but you should also download the issuu app and then search within issuu for Cycle Torque. This is a good way to read Cycle Torque. It’s easy to download, easy to read and features lots of links.

Computer users can also read Cycle Torque via our website, when you can download a PDF version or just read it via the embedded issuu magazine reader.

The reason for the changes are many, but one big one is getting back on TV – with Chris Pickett taking on the editor’s role at Rapid Bikes, we couldn’t produce a Cycle Torque print mag every month and do lots of television, so something had to give.

Last year we weren’t on TV because of unforeseen circumstances with our free-to-air broadcaster, so in 2017 you will be able to catch us on Foxtel’s Aurora channel and YouTube. We’re going to upload the episodes to Youtube and the website at the same time as the Foxtel telecast, so you won’t be missing out if you watch it online, and each episode will be there in its entirety, collected into a playlist. Watching the whole playlist from start to finish will be like watching the TV show.

In addition to all that, we’re also going to be putting more and more on social media outlets like Facebook, Instgram and Twitter.

The media landscape is changing, and Cycle Torque is changing too. Hope you enjoy the ride.

– Nigel Paterson Publisher feedback@cycletorque.com.au Continued on next page

NEWS TORQUE

cycletorque.com.au JAN/FEB 2017 I 6

Big Changes at Cycle Torque DIGITAL readers of Cycle Torque will notice not a great deal will change in 2017, just when and how it’s delivered.

If you are the type of person who wants to keep up to date with the latest articles, the first place you will see them published is on the website.

If you’re really tech savvy, you can use an RSS app like feedly or Apple News to push new content to your device as it is published.

A website renovation is in order and will take place early in the year.

In the meantime, the web is the first place to try if you’re looking for a test of an older machine or to look up some news or a feature we ran in the past.

If you like how we package everything together into digital editions you can continue to download a digital edition of Cycle Torque each month.

You can sign up to the mailing list and never miss an important update; read online with issuu; and watch our latest YouTube videos all from within Facebook.

Our Youtube channel has hundreds of videos and now has over 5-million views! We cover bike tests, products, travel, events and more.

Individual TV segments will be available to watch on YouTube, entire episodes will be organised into playlists - great if you have a Smart TV. Episode playlists will also be available to watch through the website.

And to keep up with anything extra - the stuff we’re up to from day to day, follow Cycle Torque on Twitter and Instgram.

The monthly periodical and digital format means we are able to publish more news compared to the print magazine. iPad and iPhone users have been spoilt for years with our own dedicated app, which you can download from the App Store.

For Android users, we encourage you to give the issuu app a try - download issuu, search for Cycle Torque within the app and subscribe.

This will give you access to issues going all the way back to 2012.

If you like to spend all day on Facebook - make sure you ‘Like’ Cycle Torque.

While you’re there, check out the ‘Apps’ tab.

cycletorque.com.au

NEWS TORQUE

cycletorque.com.au JAN/FEB 2017 I 7

Rea on MotoGP pace before ’17 World Superbike opener JOHNATHAN REA has shown early signs that he will once again be the one to beat in this year’s World Superbike Championship..

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The Kawasaki rider scored more than a few double takes topping the timesheet in a four-day combined WSBK/MotoGP in Jerez, Spain, late 2016.

The quasi-Aussie’s (Rea’s wife is Australian, so we’re claiming him as ours) hot-lap was faster than Valentino Rossi’s pole position time during the 2016 MotoGP round, though there were no factory MotoGP riders at the test.

Rea took a lot of confidence out of the test, saying the team can go into winter “in great shape”.

“Having the new Ninja ZX-10RR has let us fix some of our weaker points, as our engine is a little bit stronger than before, with some extra RPM. “That is always an added bonus.”

Chaz Davies (Ducati) and Tom Sykes (Kawasaki) were also on the pace, finishing third and fifth respectively on the timesheet.

While the big guns are already in great shape ahead of the 2017 WorldSBK season opener, Jerez also saw a number of returning riders like Marco Melandri (Ducati) and Eugene Laverty (Aprilia), new rider Stefan Bradl (Honda) and those swapping manufacturers Michael van der Mark (Yamaha) continue to acclimatise to their new surroundings.

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This comes before the 2017 WorldSBK season is set to kick off with the Yamaha Finance round, at Phillip Island, February 24-26.

Rea will head back to Australia with his wife, Tatia and two sons to spend the local summer shuttling between the family’s two bases at Phillip Island and the northern Victorian town of Bright.

Tickets for the Yamaha Finance round of the WorldSBK at Phillip Island are available through Ticketek, with a three-day general admission pass costing $120.

BarSBK passes, for undercover viewing locations at some of the most spectacular parts of the circuit, are $260, while adult single-day passes cost $30 for Friday, $65 for Saturday and $80 for Sunday.

Camping is available for up to four nights for $105.

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NEWS TORQUE

cycletorque.com.au JAN/FEB 20176 I 8

AMA Pro star back in Australia to take care of business AMA Pro flat track star Jared Mees admits there is “unfinished business” to address, when he competes at the Troy Bayliss Classic for the third time.

Mees, an X-Games Gold medalist and four-time AMA Grand National Champion said “racing in Australia is one of the moments in my season I look forward to the most.”

“The event is great, I have made a lot of new friends and love meeting Australia’s racing fans.

“Last year was upsetting for the racing side of things as the rain didn’t give us a chance to contest the final events.”

Mees is currently recovering from a broken collarbone, and will get his season underway at Taree’s oil-based circuit.

Event organiser Troy Bayliss said the track has undergone a range of improvements to benefit spectators and competitors.

“The Taree Motorcycle Club [has] done an incredible job,” Bayliss said.

“There are some big improvements for spectators and the track itself is looking great.

“I am also really excited to confirm that once again we have three of the best AMA Pro flat track racers onboard for the 2017 event.

“This event continues to grow, and our rider line-up for the 2017 event promises to deliver some incredible on track battles.”

AMA PRO compatriots Henry Miles and Sammy Halbert will join Mees for the fifth instalment of the iconic Australian event. tickets to the 2017 Motul Pirelli Troy Bayliss Classic presented by Shannon’s Insurance can be purchased at troybaylissevents.com n

NEWS TORQUE

cycletorque.com.au JAN/FEB 2017 I 10

H-D raises 10k for men’s health A Harley-Davidson charity ride travelling throughout New Zealand has raised an estimated $10,000 for men’s health charity, Movember.

Travelling 1,600 kilometres from Auckland to Invercargill, the eight-day ride came to a spectacular finish roaring into the Burt Munro Festival.

Crowds welcomed the group of Harley-Davidson riders as they rumbled through the streets of Invercargill to the festival.

Movember spokesperson, Robert Dunne said, “We are incredibly thankful to have Harley-Davidson as a key partner.”

“The focus of the funds raised by Harley-Davidson from the 2016 Movember campaign will be on creating a comprehensive prostate cancer registry here in NZ that will assist in treatment decisions as well as continuing to give men the tools to overcome male mental health issues.

“Every dollar raised takes us one step closer to delivering innovative, breakthrough programs that allow men to live happier, healthier and longer lives.”

Harley-Davidson ambassadors Jay Reeve, Josh Kronfeld and Olympic track cyclist Eddie Dawkins partnered with Movember to host five free Men’s Health evenings along the way at Harley-Davidson dealerships including Auckland, Hamilton, Christchurch and Dunedin before arriving in Invercargill.

“It was incredible to see the support on the road,” Reeve said.

“Riding is a great way to connect and talk about men’s health.”

“The evenings had a huge impact on quite a few individuals.

“These type of events are critical in raising awareness for key men’s health issues in New Zealand and bringing people together.”

The ‘Mo-tastic’ events hosted by the Harley-Davidson ambassadors at the dealers saw over 200 men visit the health station to have their vital health checks that included BMI, blood pressure and cholesterol checks on the spot and 70 men visited Bundy the Barber for their mo-maintenance needs including wet shaves and haircuts.

The mutual appreciation of motorcycles and moustaches provided an opportunity for conversation starters, and help facilitate the larger and more important discussions on men’s health.

The $10,000 raised for the Movember Foundation will be donated to the 40 projects locally in NZ to deliver innovative, breakthrough research and support for prostate cancer, testicular cancer, poor mental health and physical health. n

NEWS TORQUE

Melbourne Moto Expo hailed a success APPROXIMATELY 18,500 motorcycle enthusiasts attended the Melbourne Showgrounds for Moto Expo Melbourne 2016 proudly presented by Shannon’s Insurance.

The latest machines were revealed Friday morning with media and visitors alike amongst the first in the country to see a record number of new bikes on display in Australia.

Troy Bayliss, promoter of the event said, “It was a big weekend showcasing the latest bikes, products and services in Australia, accompanied by live motorcycle entertainment and action for all ages.

“Highlights for me included seeing the children’s faces riding bikes for the first time in the Yamaha Fun Bike area and the public’s reaction to bikes being unveiled for the first time in the country.”

“We would like to thank the exhibitors, sponsors and most importantly the visitors who attended the event.”

Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries Chief Executive Tony Weber announced during the official opening that the 2017 Sydney Motorcycle Show will head to the International Convention Centre (ICC), Darling Harbour, next year.

cycletorque.com.au JAN/FEB 2017 I 11

HILLS MOTORCYCLE WRECKERS WRECKING JAPANESE AND EUROPEAN BIKES OLD AND NEW MODELS

Brands including Triumph, MV Agusta, Moto Guzzi, Aprilia, Honda, Piaggio, BMW, Kawasaki, Yamaha, Ducati, Indian, Can-Am, Victory, Harley-Davidson, Royal Enfield and Benelli all released new model motorcycles just weeks after their global launch at EICMA. Many additional brands featured a large line-up of 2017 models released in the past few weeks including Sherco, SWM, CF-Moto, Ural, Kymco along with new release of personal watercrafts from Sea-Doo, Yamaha Marine & Kawasaki Marine.

The show also included special guests like American UFC Fighter Miesha Tate at the Harley-Davidson display.

Showtime FMX, Lukey Luke, Dave McKenna and Epic Darren performed all weekend along with the ALL4FMX Bag Jump team launching everything from postie bikes, scooters, mini-bikes, quads and even Harley-Davidsons into the $50,000 air bag.

The Baylisstic Scramble (flat track race) presented by Motul, Pirelli, Ixon, UniFilter and Shannon’s Insurance was a popular feature within the main arena.

The flat track finals featured legends such as Jason Crump and current all-stars with the three Waters brothers claiming all positions on the podium with the largest share of the $4000 prize money being awarded to Brodie Waters.

Supermotard demonstrations made its first appearance at Moto Expo Melbourne with a track consisting of bitumen and gravel keeping all riders on the limit over the weekend.

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NEWS TORQUE Second lap for YZF-R3 Cup Yamaha Australia has announced it will continue its one-make YZF-R3 Cup series in 2017.

The competition will be held over five rounds in conjunction with the ASBK series, with the final round being held at the iconic Phillip Island circuit with headline sponsors YMF and YMI again joining the party.

Steven Cotterell, YMA General Manager and Director said, “the huge success of the 2016 R3 Cup has made the decision to go again for 2017 a no-brainer.

“This entry level competition emphasises the enjoyment of riding and competing on equal and cost effective machinery.

“Yamaha is continuing to introduce new riders to the sport in order to help build a more solid future for Australian road racing.”

The YMF/YMI R3 Cup is aimed at entry-level road racers and junior MX, short circuit and dirt track riders. YMA is subsidising the cost of the race-kitted bikes in order to assist riders wanting a low cost, hassle free introduction road racing. $7900 buys a YZF-R3 in road trim with the addition of a full race kit, which gives the option to return the bike into road-going form if desired.

The race kit consists of racing fibreglass bodywork, including bellypan oil catch tray and plugs; a decal kit featuring the associated contingency brands; Mupo rear suspension unit and Mupo front fork springs and internal damper assembly; Oxford rear wheel race stand; rear-set footpegs, a range of sprockets; Akrapovic Racing exhaust system; muffler mounting bracket to enable pillion foot rest removal; handlebar repositioning kit; axle and fairing crash knobs; stand pickups; chain guard; engine case protection set; Radiator mesh guard; Yamalube Service kit and CD with parts book and service manual.

The customer may also purchase the racing-YZF-R3 using YMF finance.

Repayments amount over a 12 month term would be $168 per week; or over a 24 month term - $88.

Four of the five planned rounds need to be competed to be eligible for the YMF/YMI R3 Cup Championship - as well as the considerable prize and contingency packages which will be on offer.

YMF/YMI R3 Cup prizes and contingencies are once again focused on the lower grades and newcomers.

Past champions, ‘A graders’, internationals, and VIPs will be welcome to compete but will not be eligible for points or prizes. n

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SMALL TORQUE

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Link International and Pirelli’s WSBK ticket offer Any rider in Australia who purchases a set of Diablo Rosso III, Diablo Rosso II , Angel GT or Angel ST tyres through an Australian bricks and mortar motorcycle store until February 15, 2017 can claim a three day Pirelli Paddock Pass (value $250) to the Phillip Island round of the World Superbike Championship from Link International free of charge.

This pass allows access to the Paddock area behind the pits as well as general entry to the event.

This expanded range of tyres means riders who are looking for Hypersport performance or higher mileage touring and sport touring tyres can take advantage of this amazing offer.

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BMW gives away R nineT Scrambler for Black Dog Ride raffle BMW Motorrad has announced the lucky winner of a new R nineT Scrambler as part of the Black Dog Ride raffle is Bryan from Perth.

Bryan picked up his brand new Scrambler from Auto Classic Motorcycles in West Australia. Enjoy!

Thunderstroke recall notice INDIAN Motorcycle Australia has issued a press release regarding a worldwide safety recall for all Thunderstroke 111 engines produced between 2014 and 2017.

Indian Motorcycle says there may be insufficient clearance between the fuel line and engine which may pose a fire hazard.

The manufacturer has identified all affected VINs and will contact all customers for the concern to be inspected and rectified if required. n

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Price lifts the lid on Dakar Rally weapon IN anticipation of the upcoming Dakar Rally which kicks of January 2, Toby Price has made a video with Red Bull which goes through the features of his championship winning KTM.

To keep up with the Dakar, SBS will broadcast a daily wrap-up of each stage, your best chance of catching an episode will be through SBS’ ondemand streaming service.

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The GS Enduro will return to Cape York in August, a GS/TS Safari will take place in Western Australia for the first time as well as several smaller events that will also take place.

More information is available on www.bmwsafari.com

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EDITORIAL

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A New Year’s Resolution THE summer season is a great time to be out riding: spending time with your mates, your family and other acquaintances.

Maybe it’s a jaunt along your favourite stretch of road, a run to your favourite pub or café. It might even be a day out in the bush. These times we cherish the most. The weight of the world is off your shoulders - there’s less pressure to be back by a certain time and little (or hopefully no) work stress. Have you ever felt like you could be anywhere in the world in the middle of a ride? Not much beats it - knowing the lay of the land, being in tune with your machine and stringing sections of corners together. Cares disappear. It is just you and the moment on a two-hour holiday. To rob Paul Simon, ’These are the days of miracle and wonder.’

And while it may be true, by being such a great time to ride we inherently see lots of returning riders on the road. Maybe they have a shiny new toy for Christmas, have been invited out at a get-together by one of their mates, or are just feeling the good vibes of summer, like everyone else. It’s also a great time of year for more experienced riders to take-five and evaluate their own ability.

While I am certainly not discouraging returning riders or anyone else to get out there and enjoy themselves as much as the next person, I think most riders need to be careful, because the increased feeling of freedom felt at this time of year puts us at risk.

Quite a lot of motorcycle fatalities are single vehicle accidents, roughly 40-50 per cent. Half of those involve excessive speed for the conditions and most are due to rider error. This is not to mention loose gravel, potholes, oil or other road surface hazards.

Let me introduce you to a phenomenon known as Thomas dictum: If men (or women) define situations as real, they are real in their consequences (or actions). This means actions are affected by an individual perception of the situation. A returning rider’s perception will be much different to that of an experienced rider. At the end of the day: these perceptions create different outcomes. I vaguely remember learning about it at university, but it was reaffirmed in a classroom

session with track-based rider training group, motoDNA.

Take my own riding for example - on long-distance rides I don’t stop as frequently as I should. A stop for fuel, a quick drink, stretch, leak and a snack and it’s time to saddle up and repeat. I, like everyone else, am fallible under fatigue.

Thomas dictum says it takes a certain level of competence to understand while you are under fatigue, that you are actually fatigued, and should either slow down or stop for a moment’s rest. Actions are affected by perception (whether real or false).

It was under fatigue at motoDNA that I understood how it affects my riding.

Summer time is the perfect season for conversations to happen, whether you are planning a trip with friends or family or even chewing the fat at a backyard barbecue. It’s a time when we let our guard down and allow ourselves to become excited easily. When you invite a returning rider on a ride with you, can you vouch for their ability? Are your mates inviting their mates? Will they be able to keep up with the group? Will they try too hard keep up? Will they shoot off into the distance? Or will they ride at their own pace? It doesn’t take much for these things to converge and turn into a pearshaped trail of destruction and heartache. Aforementioned loose gravel and potholes are a spanner in the works for any rider. Returning riders also have to factor in rusty line selection and/or braking technique and target fixation.

Sometimes riding a bike is not like riding a bike.

Please don’t think I am not trying to impede anyone’s autonomy, discourage anyone from riding or tell you inviting a mate who hasn’t ridden in some time is a bad idea. By all means. Go on every ride you can and invite whomever you like.

But have you ever thought about getting rider training? Not post-learner or refresher courses. Advanced rider training?

Going with a group of mates is a seriously fun day out because you share the experience. It makes the day equally as good as your favourite jaunt because you essentially get to do on the track what you aren’t allowed to on the road. It doesn’t matter where your skills are at, you are encouraged

to progressively move out of your comfort zone and start to realise how much more capable you are on a motorcycle by using proper techniques. This enables riders to read situations with higher perception, inevitably linking corners and ride smooth. Or to know when to slow down or stop altogether.

Basically you will equip yourself with the skills to avoid becoming a statistic: the same techniques you pick up in a controlled environment inevitably help you on the road.

When you are out with friends this summer, plan those trips away, be excited by it and go with as few or many people as possible. But be honest. Ride to the conditions. Ride to your ability. And look at becoming a better rider this year, no matter how experienced you are. Sharpen your perception and it will provide safer outcomes.

Have a great 2017! I look forward to seeing you out on the road this year.

– Ryan Grubb

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DIRTY TORQUE

cycletorque.com.au JAN/FEB 2017 2017 II 19

Australia Set to Sizzle in 2017 The new racing season is upon us and the Australian calendar is riddled with world-class Speedway, Motocross, Enduro, Supercross and Dirt Track events along with all of our hotly contested National Championships.

After years in the wilderness, the popularity of Speedway in Australia is gaining momentum on the back of international success by the likes of Chris Holder, Jason Doyle and Max Fricke while the Australian FIM Speedway Grand Prix in Melbourne is boosting the fan base exponentially each year. The local talent pool is growing so much the four round Australian Speedway Championships is looking to host the hottest field in many years with Fricke, Troy Batchelor, Sam Master, Brady Kurtz and Jack Holder all having an good shot of winning the title.

The annual Troy Bayliss Classic will have a starstudded field and with the signing of American Jarred Mees our local guns are going to have to bring their A-game to defeat the defending champion. Our multi-Australian Champion Jarred Brook is in hot form right how as are former winners Bayliss, Paul Caslick and Michael Kirkness.

The action is set to be jawdropping when you throw in Troy Herfoss, Josh Hook, Luke

Richards and a gaggle of other dirt track championship regulars and international stars.

Nothing is surer than Australia having many of the best enduro/ desert racers in the World and the 2017 calendar will give our riders the best possible chance to show their skills with the 12-round AORC always a hotly contested series while the Finke and Hattah Desert Races give the high speed warriors a chance to shine before they all get together for the annual A4DE which will be in Toowoomba this year. Look for former motocrossers Tye Simmons and Jack Simpson to take a lion’s share of the wins but Daniel Milner, Josh Green, Daniel Sanders and Lachlan Stanford (to name a few) will be looking to prove me wrong.

As for motocross action there is something for everyone with Toowoomba’s Mountain Man Motocross, Manjimup 15,000 and the 10-round MX Nationals set to showcase our best riders and with young Nathan Crawford now mounted on a firebreathing KX450F the MX1 class is going to be a

Will 2017 be Chad Reed’s last hurrah?

bottler as Kirk Gibbs, Todd Waters and Dean Ferris look to keep young Crawford at bay.

After an action-packed 2016 series, the 2017 Australian Supercross Championship will see the return of plenty of American stars to take on our best riders and this year is potentially the final appearance of Chad Reed so it will once again be a must for racers and fans alike. Below is a calendar of the major events in Australia.

– Darren Smart

Email us your feedback feedback@cycletorque.com.au

Continued on next page

DIRTY TORQUE

cycletorque.com.au JAN/FEB 2017 2017 II 20

Australia Set to Sizzle in 2017 January 4-14: 4-Round Australian Speedway Championship

July 22-23:

Rnds 9-10 - AORC - Kyogle, NSW

January 21:

Troy Bayliss Classic – Taree, NSW

March 11-12:

Mountain Man of Motocross – Toowoomba, Qld

July 30:

Rd 8 - Australian Motocross Championship, Port Macquarie, NSW

April 2:

Rd 1 - Australian Motocross Championship – Wonthaggi, VIC

August 5-6:

Rnds 11-12 - AORC - VIC

April 8-9:

Rnds 1-2 - AORC - Monkerai, NSW

August 13:

Rd 9 - Australian Motocross Championship – Toowoomba, QLD

April 22-23:

Rnds 3-4 - AORC - Rawson, VIC

April 23:

Rd 2 - Australian Motocross Championship – Appin, NSW

May 7:

Rd 3 - Australian Motocross Championship – Conondale, QLD

May 13-14:

Rnds 5-6 - AORC - Miva, QLD

May 21:

Rd 4 - Australian Motocross Championship – Horsham, VIC

May 28:

Rd 5 - Australian Motocross Championship – Murray Bridge, SA

June 3-4:

Manjimup 1500 Motocross – Manjimup, WA

June 9-12:

Finke Desert Race – Alice Springs, NT

June 24-25:

Rnds 7-8 - AORC - Renmark, SA

July 2:

Rd6 - Australian Motocross Championship – Nowra, NSW

July 7-9:

Hattah Desert Race – Northwest Victoria

July 16:

Rd7 - Australian Motocross Championship – Shepparton, VIC

August 19-20: Rd 10 - Australian Motocross Championship

– Coolum, QLD August 19-20: Australian Senior Dirt Track Championship – VIC Sept. 9:

Rd 1 - Australian Supercross Championship – Jimboomba, QLD

Sept. 23:

Rd 2 - Australian Supercross Championship – Toowoomba, QLD

Sept. 25-30:

A4DE – Toowoomba, Qld

October 14:

Rd 3 - Australian Supercross Championship – Victoria

October 28:

Rd 12 - Australian FIM Speedway Grand Prix - Melbourne

October 28:

Rd 4 - Australian Supercross Championship - South Australia

Nov. 4:

Rd 5 - Australian Supercross Championship – Victoria

Nov.11-12:

Rnds 6-7 - Australian Supercross Championship (AUS-X) – Sydney, NSW

RACE TORQUE

Rossi turns 21

cycletorque.com.au JAN/FEB 2017 2017 II 21

WITH Valentino Rossi entering his 21st year in grand prix racing, Race Torque looks back on one of MotoGP’s most stunning and controversial careers.

beleaguered Ducati MotoGP rider Valentino Rossi has lost confidence in his bike, and says plucky teammate Nicky Hayden is likely to drive the Ducati GP12’s development into the future as a consequence.

What’s in a name?

Doohan made his comments prior to Rossi finishing seventh to Hayden’s 11th at Estoril. “Valentino will be hating the position he’s in,” said Doohan, who watched Rossi struggle to finish ninth at Jerez. “He doesn’t have any confidence in the bike, and with nine world championships behind him, he’s not prepared to push the bike and that’s a problem. You can only develop the bike if you push it, and Valentino isn’t doing it, which leaves him in no-man’s land.”

Oct 2015: When Valentino Rossi was rocketing up the grand prix ranks he adopted several nicknames, the first ‘Rossifumi’ for his admiration of the late Norifumi Abe after the then 18-year-old’s incredible 1994 500 race debut at Suzuka. Rossi’s interim by-line was ‘Valentinik’, a reference to the Italian Donald Duck superhero ‘Paperinik’. But his most enduring nom de plume has been ‘The Doctor’. It was the nickname he adopted after he began to get the hang of his V-four Honda 500, noting that in order to master the gnarly NSR “one must be calm, like a surgeon.”

Rider of the Decade Apr 2011: Every ten years or so a special rider emerges who either defines or dominates an era, and for the period from 2000 to 2010 that accolade can only go to one man – Valentino Rossi. With nine world titles and becoming the last rider to win the world 500cc championship and the first to secure the inaugural MotoGP title, it seemed almost pre-ordained that the mercurial Italian would become the most famous motorcycle racer since Giacomo Agostini. In addition to his brilliant record on the track, Rossi’s genius to generate global publicity for himself and motorcycle racing will be his lasting legacy.

Email us your feedback feedback@cycletorque.com.au

No-man’s land Jun 2012: Five-time world 500cc champion Mick Doohan claims

Scapegoat?

Feb 2014: In November 2013 Valentino Rossi made the shock decision to sack his long-time crew chief Jeremy Burgess. The fact that the news went public before JB had been officially informed left many fans angry at the Aussie’s shabby treatment. JB said he was totally “blindsided” by the decision. After two disastrous years at Ducati, Rossi and Burgess returned to Yamaha only to not only find that the development of the M1 had unsurprisingly focused on the wishes of number one rider Jorge Lorenzo, and that certain methods of doing things had also changed in their absence.

That made Rossi’s return much more difficult, since Burgess has always stressed that it was always vital that his rider become the number one rider in order for the factory to follow his needs and wants.

Looking good in 2015 Aug 2015: Two-thirds into the MotoGP season and 36-year-old Valentino Rossi has spent the summer break basking on top of the championship standings. Considering Rossi made his grand prix debut aged 16 and 22-year-old Marc Marquez was

at un-backable odds to make it a hat-trick of MotoGP titles in 2015, the Italian’s staying power is incredible. Not only has he been fast, Rossi is by far the most consistent of the top runners.

He blew it Dec 2015: “Of all Valentino Rossi’s ten world championships, his 2015 MotoGP title will stand as his crowning achievement.

At an age when some ex-champions tend to the garden on warm Sunday afternoons, 36-year-old Rossi made the most of his opportunities to claim the most brilliant championship of his incredible 20-year grand prix career. He wasn’t the fastest rider out there, but he was the most consistent and the smartest, and he won when it counted. The Greatest Of All Time? Without doubt.”

That should’ve been the opening paragraph of this column.

Instead Valentino Rossi did not win the 2015 World MotoGP Championship and the only one to blame for that calamity is Rossi himself. He led the championship by a healthy margin at Phillip Island where it all started to come undone. He concluded that forces were arraying against him, so the only way to rescue the situation was to take the battle off the track and into the media centre and accuse his rivals of an incredible conspiracy to deny him his tenth championship.

When Valentino Rossi does eventually retire, it goes without saying that grand prix will never see the likes of him again.

– Darryl Flack

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Ducati Hypermotard 939 CYCLE TORQUE TEST

MORE HYPE

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Ducati Hypermotard 939 CYCLE TORQUE TEST

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Up in capacity from the 821, Ducati’s Hypermotard is open-class again… but is it open-class insanity?

Ducati Hypermotard 939

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CYCLE TORQUE TEST

More Hype

WATCH VIDEO NOW

N TEST BY NIGEL PATERSON, PHOTOS RYAN GRUBB N NIGEL WEARS SHARK HELMET, SPIDI JACKET, DRAGGIN JEANS AND XPD BOOTS.

Is it a Supermoto on steroids? Is it an urban scalpel, designed to cut through traffic and city congestion? Or is it just the most fun Ducati ever built? Ducati’s Hypermotard 939 is possibly all of the above, a lightweight open-class machine which, despite what seems like a single focus design brief, is remarkably versatile.

Check out the style. In red it looks sporty and aggressive, like it’s about to eat a pedestrian at the first opportunity. In white it looks like it’s going to eat anyone who tries to get in front of it. The red and white SP version looks like it’s going to eat Pikes Peak.

From its beak-like nose to the long-travel suspension to the stand-out trellis frame to the flat seat to the single-sided swingarm, the Hypermotard looks purposeful, tough and uncompromising.

Throw a leg over the stratospherically high seat and it still feels that way. The riding position is Supermoto, thanks to the flat ’bars and ever so slightly rearset footpegs. Ducati offers a variety of seats so those of short stature can reach ground easier, and wimps like me can order extra padding, for the standard seat is pretty hard.

Supermoto (or Supermotard if you prefer) was born out of dirt bikes converted for racing combined dirt and bitumen circuits – Ducati has stolen the concept from the dirt bike world and built one of the biggest, toughest machines of the genre with the Hypermotard.

Sporting heritage So Ducati doesn’t have a history with Supermoto racing, but it’s built the biggest, baddest and toughest Supermoto of the them all, because it had to use

a twin-cylinder motor and it wasn’t quite so fussed about off-road capability – this is a road bike quite at home on loose surfaces, but don’t take one up a fire trail.

If you’ve got the ability, the Hypermotard has got capability – wheelies, backing into haripins, barking between turns and carving up the field. Unfortunately, do that stuff on public roads and you’ll be quickly arrested, so Ducati’s also included lots of electronics to keep the front wheel on the deck and the back end in line with the front, but that doesn’t mean you won’t be having fun…

The riding position is aggressive, with the wide ’bars, flat-ish seat and long travel suspension, you’re sitting up, ready to throw the bike around, which is what gave the older model the edge up Pikes Peak – but now the Multistrada, with over 40 more horsepower, is the obvious choice for that task today.

Continued on next page

Ducati Hypermotard 939

SPECIFICATIONS:

CYCLE TORQUE TEST

DUCATI HYPERMOTARD 939

The bigger motor You could be forgiven for thinking Ducati’s simply bored-out the 821 by an extra 6mm to raise capacity to 937cc, but there’s more to it than that, of course.

ENGINE: Liquid-cooled 11-degree Testastretta L-twin CAPACITY: 937cc TRANSMISSION: Six-speed DRIVE TYPE: Chain FUEL CAPACITY: 16L

The crankshaft has been replaced and new pistons, cylinder heads and barrels are fitted. Compression is up to 13.1:1, so give it good fuel.

FRAME: Tubular steel trellis frame with engine as stressed member

Feeding the engine is 52mm throttle bodies via a ride-by-wire throttle, unchanged from the 821.

WEIGHT: 204kg Wet

Fuel exits through a new two-into-one system with a new exhaust valve.

There’s a slick six-speed gearbox and slipper clutch, awesome for backing it in.

SEAT HEIGHT: 870mm FRONT SUSPENSION: 43mm upside-down forks with 170mm travel REAR SUSPENSION: Linkage rear shock with adjustable spring preload and rebound damping, 150mm travel

Maintenance of the valves is only required every 30,000km, reducing the cost of ownership.

BRAKES: F: Twin 320mm disc brakes with four-piston Brembo monobloc calipers and ABS; R: 245mm disc brake with two-piston caliper and ABS

Road versatility

TYRES: F: 120/70-17; R: 180/55-17

Taking on the urban grind requires good visibility, manoeuvrability at low and moderate speeds, a slim profile to filter through stopped traffic and good acceleration to get away quickly from the lights – all of which the Hypermotard has in spades.

PRICE: $17,799 +ORC CALL FOR A QUOTE

1800 24 34 64

I can’t think of a lighter, narrower, more svelte open-class machine. If the seat height doesn’t get you, this bike is an awesome commuter (well, it’s a bit expensive for me to recommend it for commuting, but it sure is capable and fun!), suburban blaster and inner-city kerb-jumper.

The long travel suspension makes getting up and over footpaths and other obstacles easy.

cycletorque.com.au JAN/FEB 2017 I 26 lock is generous (especially by Ducati standards), letting you get around traffic without doing to many three point turns.

The 113HP engine has more grunt than the 821 models it replaces, with a claimed 18 per cent more torque in the midrange. The three riding modes are Sport, Touring and Urban, while there’s two levels of ABS and eight of traction control. Everything’s configurable through the comprehensive LCD instrument panel.

Sport and Touring offer the same peak power, with snappier power delivery in Sport mode – it’s easier to ride but not as aggressive in touring. Urban drops the power to 75HP and is good in the wet, stuck in traffic and for those getting the hang of a big bike.

The USD forks are from Kayaba and the shock from Sachs, with the brakes by Brembo.

Out on the open road you do feel a little like a windsock… so if you do that a lot, maybe the Hyperstrada, with its 20mm higher handlebars, panniers, power sockets and centrestand might be a better choice.

The Hyperstrada is priced at $19,490 (+ORC) and comes with Pirelli Scorpion Trail Tyres, reflecting the dual-purpose roots of the genre.

Track time Ride days, especially on short, tight circuits, are awesome on Supermoto machines, and the Hypermotard loves them.

At $21,990 the Hypermotard SP is the cheapest way to get factory-supplied Öhlins suspension on an 8-valve Ducati, and if you take one to a ride day at short circuits like the Southern part of Sydney Motorsport Park (the Amaroo circuit) you will have an absolute ball.

The high ’bars slide over car mirrors well, but be careful of 4WDs. The steering Continued on next page

Ducati Hypermotard 939

cycletorque.com.au JAN/FEB 2017 I 27

CYCLE TORQUE TEST The SP version weighs in at just 178kg and features revised riding modes (Race, Sport and Wet) combining with 3-level Ducati ABS and traction control.

The Öhlins suspension gives even longer travel and a raised ride height means more cornering clearance. Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP rubber lets you use that cornering clearance…

Pricing Ducati’s done it again, charging more for the white one than the red. The Star White Silk version is priced at $17,990, the red one $200 less. No idea why, it just is….

This slots the Hypermotard in between the 821 Monsters (from $16,490) and both the Monster 1200 and 959 Panigale ($19,990).

They pack a lot of sporting ability, with road-going versatility, for the money.

Yes, the Hypermotard does stir the soul, and yes, you can ride it hard and fast, and it’s fun to do so. But it’s actually a ‘civilised beast’ when it’s ridden by a normal, mortal human.

The style, the feel and the sound is all hyper. It makes you want to believe it’s more than simply a machine - it’s a Hypermotard. n

A Hyper Decade ALTHOUGH first shown at the Milan Show in 2005, we didn’t actually get a Ducati Hypermotard until late 2007, when the first air-cooled 1100s were released.

A compact, lightweight open-class machine, the first Hypermotards proved a lot more versatile then they looked, proving to be capable and fun in many situations.

Cycle Torque’s Chris Pickett actually rode one over 1000km in a day while returning from a tour, where he was having so much fun he didn’t want to stop. This from a model which also won the Pikes Peak Hillclimb, the first Ducati to do so.

Antics like Picko’s tour led to the Hyperstrada, while the sporting heritage of the machine means we now have the Hyperstrada 939 SP, with Öhlins suspension, MotoGP-inspired colours and tweaks to the electronics.

But let’s backtrack a bit – in 2013 the air-cooled models were replaced with a new version built around the 8-valve, liquid-cooled 821 motor.

The 821-based bike replaced the 1100s and the 796, a smaller machine introduced for the 2010 model year.

With the coming Euro4 requirements looming, Ducati decided to up the capacity of the Hypermotard rather than risk losing performance to the new requirements. In a nod to the versatility of the machine, the Hyperstrada is also available, with similar style but some more creature comforts for the longer ride.

Continued on next page

Ducati Hypermotard 939 CYCLE TORQUE TEST

GALLERY

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Ducati Hypermotard 939 CYCLE TORQUE TEST

GALLERY

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Ducati Hypermotard 939 CYCLE TORQUE TEST

GALLERY

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2017 KTM 450 EXC-F CYCLE TORQUE TEST

cycletorque.com.au JAN/FEB 2017 I 33

Character Assassin

2017 KTM 450 EXC-F CYCLE TORQUE TEST

With major engine refinements, significant weight savings across the board and great suspension, KTM’s 2017 450 EXC-F adds character to an already to race machine… cycletorque.com.au JAN/FEB 2017 I 34

2017 KTM 450 EXC-F

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CYCLE TORQUE TEST

Character Assassin N TEST BY TODD REED, PHOTOS NIGEL PATERSON N TODD WEARS A BELL HELMET, OAKLEY GOGGLES, THOR JERSEY AND PANTS AND ALPINESTARS BOOTS.

Every year the motorcycle manufacturers of the world roll out their shiny new bikes, and tell us about how cool their new stickers look, how their new suspension offers a ride like no one has ever experienced before, and how their engine is at the forefront of modern technology.

Yeah, yeah, got it. We’ve heard it all before.

Introducing the 2017 KTM 450 EXC-F, with all new WP Xplor forks, new chromoly chassis, and redesigned 450cc four-stroke engine...

Now, the manufacturers might have the full intentions of making new bikes better than their old ones. But seriously how much better could the 2017 450 be when compared to 2016 model?

OK, so maybe we’re being a bit dramatic here, and probably a bit numb at times to the latest new bikes, as we get to ride bikes every other

week. But leading up to the day of our KTM 450 EXC-F test it felt like we were heading off for a ride on yet another new bike.

Well… weren’t we proved wrong!

Spec it up KTM got the message loud and clear, the open cartridge forks are well beyond their ‘best before’ date, and the WP 4CS forks which graced the Six-Days model for the past few years, are simply not up to scratch. Enter the all new 48mm Xplor forks. Simply put, the Xplor fork is a collaboration between WP and KTM which maintains the split fork concept from the 4CS forks, with compression in one side, rebound in the other, and springs in each fork leg. Inside, the design and material coatings are quite different which contributes to the massive improvements claimed

by KTM. The PDS rear shock systems

WATCH VIDEO NOW Continued on next page

2017 KTM 450 EXC-F

cycletorque.com.au JAN/FEB 2017 I 36

CYCLE TORQUE TEST

stays put underneath the orange machine.

It’s a trustworthy unit, which has proved to work remarkably well in the bush. Internally, it has a new smaller diameter piston, increased reservoir capacity, 4mm shorter stroke, and a new second piston design which offers a more progressive action.

The chassis may still be a chromoly steel design, but it’s now much lighter, claimed to be one kilogram lighter than the nearest competition. Thanks to developments that have flowed down from the motocross models, the frame is now stiffer in the lower sections of the chassis: offering increased rider comfort and more precise handling. The swingarm is slightly different for 2017, with a new PDS mounting position, the more symmetrical design brings the rear shock closer to the centreline of the bike by five millimetres which allows the load to be distributed more evenly across the machine.

The engine has undergone some pretty serious changes with the entire crankshaft moving backwards 9mm and raised seven. This also means new engine cases and covers, which shave around 550 grams of engine weight. A shorter cam chain connects the crank to the all-new camshaft, which sits comfortably in a redesigned cylinder head. Keihin take care of all the electronics and fuel-injection with an updated 42mm throttle body, and dual engine mapping system. The engine maps are

accessible via a simple switch located on the handlebars.

The rest of the package is what we have come to know and love from KTM. Ready to Race.

Brembo brakes, no-tool required air filter access with a Twin-Air filter, hydraulic clutch, lithium-ion battery, keyless electric start, 8.5-litre translucent fuel tank, black wheels, and all-new styling and bodywork.

Going Bush After only a few laps, we were surprised to see how much 450 EXC-F had really improved. Not

to say we dislike the ‘old’ one, because to this day it’s a really nice bike. But it kind of lacked some personality, it did everything well but nothing was outstanding. The 2017 model is a very different story, the weight savings and new suspension really transform the KTM and make it much more enjoyable to ride. From a rider’s perspective the new suspension offers so much more feel and traction through the front end of the bike. It means you can attack corners with more confidence, and know exactly how the front end will react.

The overall action of the suspension is on the softer side, but we found the compression clickers to be very effective, where after a few Continued on next page

2017 KTM 450 EXC-F CYCLE TORQUE TEST

changes in the stiff direction, we felt that the standard setup was very much race ready.

The PDS shock does a great job of keeping the KTM in line and offers comfort without sacrificing any performance. Coming out of ruts, or exiting bumpy turns the KTM showed exceptional control, as well as on log hits or rock ledges where the EXC remained stable and predictable.

The weight savings and new body styling sound like gimmicks, but again, are way more effective than we anticipated. The EXCs have been known to have a heavier enduro feel, but the 2017 changes really bridge the gap from motocross to off-road. The narrow shrouds and fuel tank offer a feel much like the KTM SX range, and the weight savings translate to improved handling on the track. When tipping in and out of turns and navigating the tight single trail, the 450 offers an easier ride, which is less taxing on the body and requires less input from the rider. Not to mention that the new styling looks awesome!

The Neken handlebars are a comfortable bend, and the handlebar area is well laid out without any cluttering, but for the taller, more lanky folks out there, it may be a good idea to invest in a higher bend and perhaps adjust the handlebar position on top of the triple clamps to open up the cockpit a bit more. For longer days on the trail, it’s a very race-oriented set-up

cycletorque.com.au JAN/FEB 2017 I 37

which may not prove to be super comfy on any weekend-long adventures.

SPECIFICATIONS: 2017 KTM 450 EXC-F

Despite the engine changes the 450 EXC-F maintains the very well mannered approach which has seen it become so successful. It’s quite possibly the easiest bike to ride in the 450cc category. For the average trailblazer the engine offers power when you need it. It doesn’t hit hard or have a bunch of top-end speed, instead it’s quite balanced and linear in its delivery. If you’re talented enough to throw some aggression into the mix - the big KTM will quickly wind up and put a smile on your face. A flick of the clutch and a fist full of throttle injects more life into the EXC than most of us mortals can handle.

ENGINE: Single-cylinder four-stroke

After speaking with a few new 450 EXC owners, a few have mentioned making gearing changes. The specialised six-speed gearbox worked great on our tight special test loop, but on more cross-country style terrain we tended to agree. Dropping a tooth or two off the rear sprocket lets the KTM rev out a bit more, allowing the rider to be more aggressive in the lower gears without the power becoming too much. Owners also mentioned, the aftermarket Exhaust offered in the KTM Powerparts catalogue gave a more responsive and fun feel to the KTM engine.

BRAKES: F: 260mm disc with Brembo caliper; R: 220mm disc with Brembo caliper

CAPACITY: 449cc TRANSMISSION:Six-speed DRIVE TYPE: Chain drive FUEL CAPACITY: 8.5L FRAME: Chromoly steel central-tube SEAT HEIGHT: 960mm WEIGHT: 112kg Wet FRONT SUSPENSION: WP XPLOR 48 with split damping and preload adjustment REAR SUSPENSION: WP Xplor PDS shock

TYRES: Maxxis PRICE: $14,295 +ORC

Overall The KTM 450 EXC-F comes into 2017 with hype we mistakenly never bought into. It’s a very impressive bike, and with minimal personal adjustments could easily be the best 450cc enduro bike on the market.

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Yamaha Super Ténéré CYCLE TORQUE TEST

A Gentleman’s Adventure

Yamaha Super Ténéré CYCLE TORQUE TEST

Yamaha’s go-everywhere machine…

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A Gentleman’s Adventure

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N TEST BY ALEX PICKET, PHOTOS CHRIS PICKETT

When you look back to the history of Dakar racing, Yamaha’s Super Ténéré was at the forefront of the sport for a few years, then all of a sudden it went off the radar. The Europeans lapped the bike up but it was never that popular in Australia. Adventure bikes just hadn’t imprinted themselves on our psyche at that stage…

In 2010 Yamaha re-released the XT1200ZE Super Ténéré to the public, and while the new ST had certain design cues from the original, like the parallel-twin cylinder engine, it’s nothing like the Dakar racers of today, not like the original was 25 years ago. Named after the Ténéré desert region in the Sahara, these days the ST is more gentleman’s adventure tourer than Simpson Desert assault weapon.

Off the boil…

Sitting on its sidestand you are well aware the bike is designed for fun adventure riding and touring, not for single trail work. It’s a big bike, with a big

tank, a big engine and everything that goes with it.

Even though the engine is 1199cc it’s still been designed to be as compact as possible. In Yamaha fashion the gearbox is positioned in a way to allow a shorter set of crankcases, and the six speeds are widely spaced, perfect for the intended use of the bike. In keeping with this on and off-road philosophy is the shaft drive and 19- and 17-inch laced wheels with road-biased adventure tyres.

Right of the bat, I liked how the Super Ténéré has a bullet style of cowl instead of the bird’s beak style of fairing that is commonly seen on this style of adventure bike and in my opinion: Yamaha’s 60th anniversary colours that it comes in looks plain horn.

It has a riding position made for long distance, with a great seat, massive tank, and good protection thanks to the screen. Manually adjustable, the Continued on nexton page Continued next page

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screen works well but cannot be adjusted on the move. You can switch from sitting down to standing up easily, and even though the bike isn’t small it never feels ‘too big for the job’. The Super Ténéré is off-road capable as far as adventure bikes go, though this machine isn’t meant for hard-core off-roading, aimed more towards those dirt roads which take you to the secret little hideouts you think only you know about.

In standard trim the ST has a number of off-road style features such as a skid plate, Barkbuster-style handguards and of course that lovely long-travel electronic suspension to wave away the bumps.

You can select a myriad of different settings via the multi-function handlebar switch. There’s four preload, and three damping settings, so if you can’t find something to suit the conditions you will be hard to please.

The standard seat gives you an inch of adjustment to play with, but for the extra shorties or the long riders among us there is a lot of options available from the accessories catalogue. An optional lowseat is available which is narrower and lowers the seat height around 40mm over the standard seat and a windscreen is available that is almost 50mm taller that standard. There is also a range of various sized travel bags suited for those long hauls into the wilderness.

Rounding out some of the notable features which come standard on the ST is cruise control and dual cat-eye projector headlights. Honestly I was a bit sceptical about the cruise control but since using it I don’t know why most bikes don’t come with it standard. It’s widely accepted that adventure frames should be steel as they provide more give

in rough terrain. It’s always easier to find a bloke with a stick welder in the Outback than one with a TIG welder… Yamaha has continued the steel set-up with the latest ST, but it does have an alloy subframe, which is more likely to be damaged in the event of a spill. If the ST’s steel frame is damaged enough to need welding, chances are you’re in a painkiller-induced alternate reality and don’t give a stuff about the bike anyway. Yamaha says the frame design is part of the whole mantra of trying to get the weight as low as possible to help with manoeuvrability, and fair enough: it feels lighter than it looks.

On the boil…

As with most big-bore bikes these days this thing comes loaded with shed-loads of electronics and although some people may think they’re daunting: it’s far from it. The Ténéré has three levels of traction control (aggressive, mellow and off ) and two drive modes (S for Sport and T for touring). When I took it off-road I used the traction control as follows: Level 1 (most aggressive) was just for the street so I wouldn’t even bother using it on the dirt unless you’re a real novice. Level 2 (mellow) was good for really fast gravel roads where the back end wanted Continued on nexton page Continued next page

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to get away from me, usually under provocation from my throttle hand. Off is preferred for normal off-road riding and any kind of sand.

There is a huge difference between the two drive modes, which is good because so many bikes have different maps that seem to feel quite similar.

The T mode has a much mellower hit and overall smoother throttle response while the S mode is punchier and has a quicker response. While I preferred S mode in most situations because of its quick response, the T mode made some sketchy descents easier since the throttle was less responsive. As you could imagine the 1199cc, parallel twin made mince meat of whatever you chuck at it and having these electronic aids made life a lot easier when I got into sticky situations.

As much as the ST is promoted as being for offroad riding, if you’re thinking about getting one to use on off-camber, sloppy single track through tight bush then think again… But to be fair no adventure-style bike can do that with ease no matter how dirt-orientated they are. The ST is happiest and fun on not-too-rocky trails, mellow two-track and fire trails. We stepped outside the bike’s comfort zone a few times, trying sand and rocky fire trails. On a trail or enduro bike, the proper way to get over the rocks is to keep momentum up and sort of ‘float’ over the rocks but with a bike weighing around 250kg and softish style suspension there is no float… You can always take the slower, technical approach but don’t get caught on a shitty uphill trail is all I can say.

So what’s it like on the road? ‘Bloody good’ is the answer… Just by looking at it you know the

bike will excel at long distance touring. It is well equipped for the job, it’s what it is designed to do.

But despite the adventure tyres, the size of the thing, and the less than sporty steering, you can ride the ST quite quick on the road. Tight twisting roads won’t bother it, nor do the lumps and bumps of our back-roads. It has ‘only’ 112 horsepower but it has plenty of torque and revels in lower revs rather than revving the crap out of it. It has a 270-degree crankshaft so it’s supposed to sound and feel like a V-twin. It does to a degree but not overtly so…

The brakes impressed me too, with dual, fourpiston calipers grabbing decent sized discs on the front. The rear single caliper is great in the bush, while not needed so much on the tar. ABS is standard, as is the Unified Brake System (UBS) that balances the braking effort yet gives you the option of separating the brakes for traditional function on the fly.

Who wants one?

Every time I rode this bike it had me wondering…

Who would buy one? It is made to cover massive distances on both highways and dirt which is basically my definition of adventure riding. Load it with camping gear, forget the map, and just see where those dirt roads you’ve always wanted to explore take you.

Once you get over the mindset of having a 1200cc motor between your legs and that you’re not going to be popping over tree stumps or rocks with ease, you can appreciate that with some patience and the proper speed, the Super Ténéré can get you

SPECIFICATIONS: 2016 YAMAHA XT1200ZE SUPER TÉNÉRÉ ENGINE: Liquid-cooled parallel-twin CAPACITY: 1199cc TRANSMISSION: Six-speed DRIVE TYPE: Shaft FUEL CAPACITY: 23L FRAME: Steel tube backbone SEAT HEIGHT: 845mm WEIGHT: 265kg Wet FRONT SUSPENSION: Telescopic forks 190mm travel, electronic adjustment REAR SUSPENSION: Swingarm 190mm travel, electronic adjustment BRAKES: F: dual 310mm disc, with ABS and unified braking system; R: Single 282mm disc with ABS and unified braking system TYRES: F: 110/80-19; R: 150/70-17 PRICE: $21,999 +ORC CALL FOR A QUOTE

1800 24 34 64

through those short sections of sketchiness so you can enjoy those long sections of comfort.

I wouldn’t be in a rush to ride it in the Finke Desert Race but I’d love to ride it there and back, and at around 22K it’s a lot cheaper than most of the Euro options. n

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BMW R nine T Scrambler CYCLE TORQUE TEST

The

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Scrambled Boxer

BMW R nine T Scrambler CYCLE TORQUE TEST

Get into the loose stuff with the stylish new R nineT Scrambler…

BMW R nine T Scrambler CYCLE TORQUE TEST

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The Scrambled Boxer N TEST BY NIGEL PATERSON, PHOTOS CHRIS PICKETT

BMW WENT retro a while back with the R nineT, a bike which had the styling of yesteryear with modern performance, electronics and reliability.

Now we have the R nineT Scrambler and next year a couple more models join the Heritage range, as BMW is now calling the bikes.

Designed around a philosophy of style, customisability (hey, I just invented a new word!) with a dose of practicality, both the R nineT and the new Scrambler variant offer a stylish flat-twin powered, easy to ride and own good-looking motorcycle.

BMW is at pains to point out it’s got history with scramblers, but only points to one in the press release about the bike – the 1951 R68 with an optional high exhaust. One model over 60 years ago doesn’t really cut it in the heritage stakes from my perspective, but whatever…

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The style It’s a little bit 1950s British Scrambler, a little bit 1980s R 80G/S, a little bit R 90… the influences are many and varied, but the result is an interesting looking bike which shouldn’t work – but it does. The fittings and design touches are almost steampunk, especially the air intake tubes running under the tank, the frame brackets under the rider’s part of the seat, and the pressings and pads on the tank itself.

The wheels are black cast alloy, where they should be laced… the fork gaiters are retro too, with 43mm conventional forks. There’s a small, round headlight, single circular instrument on the top triple clamp, shorty black front mudguard

and an interesting collection of colours – our test bike came in the gun metal grey (tank, rocker covers, headlamp body) while most of the engine is black, as are the wheels, fork lowers and shaft drive. But there’s a brown seat and (optional) knobby tyres… so it is distinctive and unusual, which is part of the point, and if you like the concept but aren’t taken by the execution, customise it to suit yourself.

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BMW R nine T Scrambler CYCLE TORQUE TEST

The engine I can remember when 110 horsepower (81kW) was considered pretty stonking, but these days it’s mid-range stuff, so don’t expect anything eye-watering, but that’s OK – it makes great torque in the mid-range and the bottom-end is healthy, too. It’s a very pleasant motor, developing a good spread of power and is nice to use. Maximum torque is at just 6000rpm, so you certainly don’t have to rev it hard.

The engine itself is a variation of the Boxer-twins BMW has been running for decades. There’s an oil cooler bolted to the frame above the front mudguard… if you’re serious about doing some scrambling I’d look for a guard, you don’t want to punch a hole it it… but it’s nice and high and out of the way. Between the fins on the pots and the oil the machine keeps its cool reasonably well, although you do notice some radiant heat on warm days when in traffic.

The motor is fed by fuel injection which was beautiful to use – throttle response was good, there was no hunting or hesitation.

BMW is still using a single-plate dry clutch on it’s Boxer twins, but the company has developed them to be far more progressive than in the bad old bays, although I still found the actuation a little heavy – but on the plus side it’s hydraulically-operated and has a five-position lever, just like the brake.

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All this results in a riding position which is neutral and comfortable. There’s room to the footpegs from the seat, the reach forward to the ’bars gentle.

With no wind protection leaning into the breeze is a good thing, it makes the Scrambler comfortable: even at speeds beyond the highway limit.

For off-road use standing up is not just achievable, it’s actually quite comfortable. It’s a shame I can’t say the same thing about sitting down – I found the seat to be pretty thinly padded, giving me a sore arse sooner than I would have expected. BMW appears to have thinned out the original R nineT’s seat to keep the seat height low, but in the process made it less comfortable, which is a shame.

The bike steers really nicely considering it has a 19-inch front wheel. I expected the steering to be slow, and it is, but it’s good slow, not bad slow… Entirely predictable and consistent, the Scrambler doesn’t like to be slammed hard over into turns, preferring a more measured old-world style of gentle cornering, but it’s confidence inspiring and fun in the twisties.

Interestingly, the Scrambler only offers 5mm more wheel travel than the standard R nineT… although that doesn’t mean it can’t be ridden off-road, it just means this isn’t any sort of GS.

The gearbox was slick, tight and positive, easily the best gearbox I’ve every used on a boxer twin.

The footpegs feature removable rubber inserts, the optional tyres are aggressive adventure-style Michelins, the optional Akrapovič high pipe looks ready for river crossings and the mimimalistic seat appears highly functional – but it’s an illusion, it’s style… if you want Adventure: buy a GS.

A special chassis

The electronics

Want to make your Scrambler a single-seat version? Easy, unbolt the rear section of the tubular space frame which is only there to hold up the pillion accommodation and switch out or shorten up the seat.

Like all modern BMWs, there’s lots of fancy techno-wizardry hiding under the heritage styling. Our test bike came with ABS, traction control and heated grips.

Now, I totally get it that you might not want to pay for traction control on a 110hp twin, but it will make it easier to sell the bike when the time comes, and those chunky tyres might spin up in the wet at times, too – so I’d recommend you get as many of the bells & whistles the budget can afford.

BMW’s specially designed the Scrambler’s tubular space frame to be easily modified. It uses the engine as a stressed member of the frame, so there’s front section joining the engine to the steering head and rear sections for the swingarm and passenger.

The Scramber is priced at $19,150 (+ORC) with the ABS and heated grips.

Options include the knobby rubber, various aluminium tanks, alarm, spoked Continued on nexton page Continued next page

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wheels and the Akrapovič pipe as fitted to the test bike.

BMW’s fitted a wring loom to the bike which allows for easier customisation than on most of its models, too.

In my time with the bike the traction control and ABS only kicked in on loose surfaces, so I switched them off after that… there isn’t any fancy modes for the ABS and traction, just on or off, which I think is fine for the Scrambler.

The ride The current BMW Boxer twin installed in the Scrambler is a big, lumpy donk with a character you’ll only find on bikes which have the crankshaft spinning in line with the machine – blip the throttle at a standstill and people think it wants to throw itself on its side.

However BMW designed the Paralever shaft drive to take out most of that momentum when moving, so you don’t notice it once your feet are on the pegs, but you still know you’re riding a lumpy twin cylinder machine.

It’s a relaxing thump, providing a beat to the ride. The Scrambler is one of those rare bikes which is comfortable around town – for a big lumpy twin – but also in the countryside – for an upright naked.

Ridden aggressively the Scrambler won’t get too far out of shape or do anything unexpected, but with only 110HP available, don’t think you’ll keep up with your mates on

S 1000 XRs or the like. The Scrambler is more about enjoying the ride at a comfortable speed, and it’s not too fussed about the road surface – gravel roads should be included on the journey, for they are good fun. Just turn off the traction control.

The Scrambler has the turning circle, suspension performance and electronics of a road bike. Sure, it’s probably better on a dirt road than a standard R nineT, but it’s not the spiritual successor to the R80G/S or more practical HP2 I was hoping for.

I suppose I was expecting too much in hoping for a successor to the R 80 G/S (which is really the F 800 GS range), but I really was expecting a bit more off-road capability than the R nineT Scrambler can actually deliver.

I mean, the bike comes standard with cast wheels… yet the earlier R nineT had laced items, which are easier to repair if dinged, something much more common in off-road bikes.

The problem is in expectation, not execution – there’s nothing wrong with the R nineT Scrambler a better padded seat won’t fix.

Once I got past what I wanted the Scrambler to be, rather than what it is, I enjoyed it immensely. If you like the style, you will too. n

SPECIFICATIONS: BMW R NINE T SCRAMBLER ENGINE: Air- and oil-cooled flat-twin (Boxer) CAPACITY: 1170cc TRANSMISSION: Six-speed DRIVE TYPE: Shaft FUEL CAPACITY: 17L FRAME: Three-section trellis frame with engine as stressed member SEAT HEIGHT: 820mm WEIGHT: 220kg Wet FRONT SUSPENSION: 43mm telescopic forks with 125mm travel REAR SUSPENSION: Paralever suspended rear shock with spring preload steplessly adjustable by hook wrench, rebound-stage damping adjustable, 140mm travel BRAKES: F: Twin 320mm disc brakes with four-piston calipers and ABS; R: 265mm disc brake with two-piston floating caliper TYRES: F: 120/70-19; R: 170/60-17 PRICE: $19,150 +ORC CALL FOR A QUOTE

1800 24 34 64

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CYCLE TORQUE FEATURE 2016 BMW GS SAFARI

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Baked BMWs Was taking 200 BMWs adventure riding in stifling heat a great idea?

Ever gone for a ride with a bunch of friends with that niggling feeling it’s going to turn to tears for at least one of them?

I reckon that’s how it must feel for the people tasked with planning the BMW GS Safaris, the group rides of around 200 people taking on the challenge of touring dirt roads for a week.

I’ve been to a handful of BMW Safaris over the years, including the first one to Fraser Island, a TS (road) Safari in Tasmania and the most recent iteration, the GS Safari from the Gold Coast to the Sunshine Coast via the incredible dirt roads across the Great Dividing Range around the NSWQueensland border and Hinterland.

And it did end in tears for a handful of participants, but none I spoke actually regretted signing up.

After all, how often do you get to go adventure bike riding knowing there’s a couple of highly qualified doctors following you, also on bikes?

Oh, and there’s a support crew too, so if problems arise bikes you could be transported to the next destination and a factory-trained mechanic there to do everything he could to get you back on the journey.

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These are some of the reasons the BMW Safari has become so popular over the years, especially the GS Safari, which is primarily run on dirt roads, fire trails and the occasional (and optional) bit of single track.

I’m astounded by the skills of some people, throwing their 200-kilo plus 1200 GSs around trails I’d be nervous riding a WR450 along.

But then there were also plenty of newbies who would have slow speed crashes in relatively innocuous places, because they were too cautious, too tame on the throttle and didn’t feel confident in the techniques of riding on loose surfaces – like standing up and keeping the power on.

But this is also one of the advantages of travelling in an organised event – in difficult spots there was usually someone to help, from providing tips on how to get across a creek to actually riding other people’s bikes up tricky hills, from helping fix a puncture to providing medical aid.

I was on the Safari because the event itself makes a great story for Cycle Torque, but also to test the new F 800 GS Adventure. That test will be coming soon, but I can say here it’s a great adventure bike.

An update from the first model which I also liked, the new 800 Adventure has better riding modes, and I absolutely loved Enduro Pro mode.

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and the traction control only kicking in if things got crazy, the 800 GSA feels like a big dirt bike. I was able to throw it around in ways which surprised me immensely.

Sign up at www.cycletorque.com.au for our email newsletter if you want to read the 2017 BMW F 800 GS Adventure as soon as it’s available – don’t tell anyone but our mobile-first editorial policy in 2017 means the story will appear on our website before the magazine.

I could only join the Safari for the final three days, so I threw my leg over the new 800 on the Wednesday, and spent most of the time trying to remember how to ride an adventure bike again – it had been a while. The Thursday was stinking hot, the on-board thermometer telling me the air temperature was 40.5 degrees at one point, but I didn’t care by then: nothing mattered but the next stretch of dirt, the next set of corners, the next spectacular view, the next conversation with a stranger enjoying all the experiences I was.

So I missed the start at the plush surrounds of Jupiter’s Casino for the welcome dinner, and the ride to Tenterfield, joining the crew at the end of their second day in Toowoomba.

The conditions, especially the heat, made this year’s event pretty tough, but I heard no complaints about the conditions, heat or sand… Kingaroy wasn’t everyone’s favourite place (especially after the lovely Toowoomba) and I saw a few heads shaking at their rate of tyre wear, but it was an adventure they signed up for and it was an adventure they were getting.

“This year’s GS Safari was a great event. It provided challenging terrain and conditions at times and really pushed some of the riders to their limit. The route surprised many with its variety and the heat made the first beer each night taste even better. As usual, the first timers were really excited to have completed their first event and many new friendships were made.” said Miles Davis, BMW Motorrad Australia Marketing Manager and former Cycle Torque journalist.

Many of the participants I spoke to believed the best day was right in the middle of the week, Wednesday, Toowoomba-Kingaroy. With a little winding bitumen getting out of town, incredible scenery and good dirt, there was a lot to like about Wednesday, but Thursday was my pick.

By then I had the F 800 GS Adventure locked into Enduro Pro mode (I’d been experimenting with the other modes the day before) and was really getting the feel for the 800 again. I was feeling more comfortable on the bike and had some great periods chasing Miles, and Ollie from Australasian Dirt Bike – I go OK on adventure bikes, but chasing experts is fun, challenging and gets the adrenalin pumping.

We go on these events for the riding, but the camaraderie at the end of each day is wonderful, too. There were always animated talks about the near misses and close calls, quieter explanations about the crashes, punctures and problems but most of all a sense of belonging to the group and looking forward to the next day or, at the farewell dinner on the last night, the next ride.

Each night there would be a meeting to discuss the day, have a few drinks and hand out maps for the following day’s ride. There was also a bucket of money destined for the Royal Flying Doctor Service, which people often donated to if Continued on next page

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A flock of GS BMWs - gathered up for checkin, on the road and in the creek, and the riders have a well-earned drink. they managed to retrieve a piece of lost property, were particularly grateful for some assistance or because they lost a bet, and is something of a tradition at the Safari.

But the biggest contribution came from the person who wanted the #001 identification sticker, which usually goes to the first person to register for the event – but this year that person had to cancel, so someone had the idea to auction off the #001 plate, where it raised $3000. That money and the bucket ended up at $5700 for the RFDS. I met some great people at the year’s BMW GS Safari. Some were on their first ride, some having basically never ridden in the dirt before (ahh, here’s a recommendation… don’t start out as an adventure rider

with a 1200cc machine… there are great mid-range bikes which will build your confidence quicker…) and of course the hard-core who I only saw in the evenings, because I didn’t see which way they went each morning, they were that fast.

It’s a credit to BMW that they put in the time and effort to run these events – they are a huge drain on personnel and resources, but it must be worth it to see the looks on the faces of the riders at the end of each day, for this is why they ride.

– Nigel Paterson Continued on next page

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About the Safari

The BMW Safari is now a fixture on the Australian motorcycle events calendar, a factory-supported ride for hundreds of like-minded individuals.

Each BMW Safari gives participants the opportunity to explore new roads without having to research the long way ‘round, to meet like-minded people with a passion for BMW motorcycles and travel, and to have the rare opportunity to meet the people who represent their brand of choice in Australia.

From the first BMW Safari, way back in 1994, through to today, the event takes the interesting route. Mountains, winding roads and the road less travelled are attractions, not obstacles, and they are often roads best known by locals, which BMW often drafts in to help with the route, for it’s never the journey your GPS would take you on to get from A to B. In the early days of BMW Safari there would actually be two routes, one for the GS models (‘enduro’ as BMW call them) and another for road bikes. That system was found to be less than satisfactory because of route planning, accommodation and logistical reasons, so some years back the Safari was split into GS and TS (road) versions.

BMW Motorrad Australia General Manager, Andreas Lundgren, was there hosting the members of the press.

“For 23 years the BMW Safari events have been providing pure motorcycling adventure and the 2016 BMW GS Safari lived up to this amazing legacy. To see BMW GS riders of all ages (21–68 yo) enjoying stunning scenery on BMW motorcycles from a 1983 R 80 G/S Paris Dakar to current models was a terrific experience. Over the week, the riders enjoyed each other’s company and when times got tough helped and encouraged each other to make it through to the end of the day and a well-earned drink. It is what making life a ride is all about,” Lundgren said.

The GS Safaris have proven so popular there are now TS, GS and a hard-core GS Enduro Safari.

In 2017 BMW is taking some intrepid souls to Cape York, which will be an incredible experience. n

Continued on next page

CYCLE TORQUE FEATURE 2016 BMW GS SAFARI

GALLERY

CYCLE TORQUE FEATURE 2016 BMW GS SAFARI

GALLERY

CYCLE TORQUE FEATURE 2016 BMW GS SAFARI

GALLERY

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No matter where you travel, no matter what the terrain – with the F 800 GS Adventure you can master it all. This adventure bike has been created for true globetrotters for whom no destination is too remote. Offer ends 30/12/2016

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2- SHARK skin The Spartan combines Shark’s distinct style with a number of features that take the riding experience to the next level.

1- Double spoiler

3- Carbon skin

WWW.FICEDA.COM.AU

QUAD TORQUE NEWS

cycletorque.com.au JAN/FEB 2017 I 71

Paddle shift YXZ announced Yamaha Motor Australia has announced the 2017 YXZ1000R SS SE will feature high-tech paddle shifting and launch control.

The five-speed sequential shift manual transmission YXZ1000R SS SE with new Sport Shift features pure-sport inspired paddle shifters mounted to the steering column for ultimate driver control and connection.

The other big feature is launch control, which is exclusive to the Sport Shift experience and provides an exciting highacceleration feeling from stop – similar to dropping the clutch in a manual vehicle with a clutch pedal.

The paddle shifters are synched to Yamaha Chip Controlled Shift (YCC-S) technology, an advanced automatic clutch system, eliminating the need for the clutch pedal.

An automatic downshift feature also assists drivers by automatically downshifting to first gear when the vehicle comes to a stop, even if the driver has not done so manually.

Additional features of the X2 shocks include dual adjusters on the upper cap and twin tube structure, dual springs with coupling and crossover adjustment, position sensitive damping, and more.

This allows a wide range of enthusiasts on a variety of off-road terrain to enjoy the pure sport performance and direct connection of the YXZ manual transmission.

The special-edition YXZ also acquires industry-first twin-wall Fox 2.5 Podium X2 shocks.

The new YXZ1000R SS SE comes in new special edition Matt Black additionally featuring painted bodywork, cast aluminum beadlock wheels

The shift sequence – shift up with the right paddle and shift down with the left paddle – is designed to be highly intuitive for drivers, even if they are not familiar with operating a manual transmission.

The Sport Shift system incorporates features that complement the paddle shifting variation and overall pure sport experience.

The shocks were developed in tandem with Yamaha specifically and exclusively for the new Special Edition model, which Yamaha says provides “ultimate slow speed comfort without sacrificing performance during aggressive driving situations.”

The shocks feature independent high and low speed compression and rebound adjustment, combined with 411mm of front and 432mm of rear travel.

The model also comes with a suntop and features coloured seat stitching and embroidered seats.

It is assembled at Yamaha’s US factory in Newnan, Georgia, for worldwide distribution and is currently on sale in Australia at $32,999 RRP inc GST. n

CYCLE TORQUE GEAR

Bike Stuff 1

2

1 This is Sparta!

The Shark Spartan helmet combines a distinct style with a number of features to take your riding experience to the next level.

A dual spoiler system optimises air drag and provides internal cooling to keep your noggin’ cool, while special ‘Shark Skin’ fastenings on the side of the peak help reduce whistling noises.

Shark’s ‘Auto Seal’ system further improves soundproofing and makes the Spartan a warmer, more comfortable fit. Constructed from carbon fibre and weighing in at just 1350g, the Spartan is just as well suited to all day rides as it is to a quick squirt up to the shops. Riders will also benefit from an anti-scratch, UV reflecting sun visor.

Price: from $449.95 (Plain) to $719.95 (Carbon Replica) Get them from: Better bike shops More info: ficeda.com.au

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2 Matte cleaning Motul has developed its Matte Surface Clean to not only perfectly clean matte surfaces but also restore the finish.

Matte finishes are really popular however their care is much more complex than those of traditional paints.

Motul’s Matte Surface Clean cleans, removes dust and revives all coloured matte surfaces, leaves a non-sticky finish and contains a protective UV filter to avoid fading.

Price: $19.90 Get them from: Most bike shops More info: linkint.com.au

3 Angels exist Pirelli’s new Angel City tyre is directly derived from the Angel GT, made specifically for the needs of LAMS, commuter and sporty bikes up to 300cc.

The robust tyre construction ensures high puncture resistance and performance consistency throughout the life of the tyre.

A new tread pattern and compound guarantees excellent grip in the wet and the dry with increased mileage.

Price: varies Get them from: Brick and mortar motorcycle stores More info: linkint.com.au

CYCLE TORQUE GEAR

Bike Stuff

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4 5

4 Choose your destiny Touratech’s Destino adventure riding boot combines a high level of protection with numerous comfort features and several new functions.

Made from waxed full-grain cow leather, the Destino is also reinforced with protectors in the toe, heel and shin areas.

A robust sole insert prevents the foot twisting and bending in a fall, but is still comfortable enough to walk in.

The outer shoe is deliberately not made to be waterproof - a breathable waterproof layer is integrated into the inner shoe.

Price: $694.76 Get them from: shop.touratech.com.au

5 Let the cat out of the bag Kawasaki has teamed up with OGIO to produce a line of team green bags.

The OGIO Kawasaki gear bag has a huge 160-litre capacity and will fit all your riding gear and then some!

Nylon wheels make transport a breeze and the hard-shelled bottom offers great protection.

The OGIO Kawasaki backpack is great for everyday use. The 40-litre capacity can accommodate a 17-inch laptop plus it features a separate tablet sleeve and heaps of storage pockets.

Both are available in candy lime green (of course)!

Price: Gear Bag: $399.99; Backpack: $95.00 Get them from: Kawasaki dealerships

6 Cheap protection Rad Guard have a Radiator and Oil Cooler Guard for the BMW S 1000 R, the radiator is not cheap to replace, as well as the inconvenience of the problem, because there’s never a ‘right’ time for it to happen. Protection is essential! Don’t go pass a Rad Guard product for your S 1000 R. Price: $239 Get them from: radguard.com.au More info: (02) 6658 0060

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CYCLE TORQUE GEAR

Bike Stuff 1

2

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3

Oggy’s new chain adjuster with axle pickup knobs 1

The Oggy CAB chain adjuster bracket is an Australian made solution for motorcycles manufactured without bosses and threads for stand pick-ups. The easily fitted CAB brackets will allow use of, and are compatible with race stands of any type. CABs replace the standard chain adjuster axle plates with a billet machined anodised bracket which includes the pick up knob, in beautiful black, silver or red anodised finish for durability. Only available bikes without threads in the swingarm for pick-up knobbs the new range currently caters for the GROM, some CB300-650s and Yamaha’s MT-07/ XSR700.

Price: $149-$179 Get them from: shop.kenma.com.au More info: kenma.com.au

2 Arisun ATV tyres and tubes Link International is pleased to advise that it has been appointed as the Exclusive Importer and Distributor in Australia for Arisun ATV and UTV tyres and tubes.

The Arisun range will include tyres for a variety of conditions including mud, all-terrain and racing applications at multiple price points and with a broad range of sizes and patterns to suit many of the best-selling ATV and UTV models available in Australia.

Price: varies Get them from: Better bike shops More info: linkint.com.au

3 Ramping up in 2017 Crosspro aluminium folding ramps are designed for transporting your bike in and out of your vehicle.

The Crosspro ramps support bikes up to 240kg and its wide 240mm platform reduces sliping.

The ramps are 2m long, and fold up to 1.1m for easy storage.

Crosspro ramps are available in a wide range of colours.

Price: $169.95 Get them from: Better bike shops More info: a1accessory.com.au

CYCLE TORQUE STORE

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Book Shop 1

2

1. Classic Bike Dreaming

IT’S fourth time lucky for Newcastle author Peter J Uren with his latest tome, Classic Bike Dreaming, yet more stories of an old motorcycle mechanic.

It follows in the footsteps of his first three books The Old Mechanic, Dominator in the Shadows and the Classic Bike Workshop. For a new author Peter is certainly making his mark in the publishing world. His latest story follows the plot already developed in the first three books and as each book came out you could see the evolution of Peter’s writing style as he sought to further develop his characters and focus more on building them and their inter-relationships.

Be prepared for a bit more of an emotional ride with his latest work as Peter introduces a new, if far more complex character, tangled in a few more social issues.

The new character is an Aboriginal of the Kamilaroi mob who is trying to live between two cultures. Peter’s knowledge of the issues involved comes from personal connections who have first hand experience and he has captured the essence of the struggles and issues that are confronted. He has woven a rich story not only about his new character but the impact that this newcomer’s arrival has on the classic bike workshop we’ve come to know.

Peter joined Stroud Writers in July 2012 and by September the following year he had written and published his first book. He says that this one is likely to be the last in the series.

Price $19.50 plus postage each, or all four for $69.90

3

4

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2 Riding the road of bones 2 disc DVD set. – $39.99

5. Eyes Wide Open - Isle of Man – $24.95

3. UBUNTU – $29.99

6. Don Cox Circus Life - Signed – $99.00

The 30,000 km motorbike ride from London to Magadan, on the edge of Russia, has been described as one of the most challenging rides in the world. For four long months a group of adventure riders from around the world travelled across a quarter of the Earth’s surface, pushing themselves and their bikes to the limit.

As you travel Africa, you will find the way of ubuntu – the universal bond that connects all of humanity as one.’

At the age of twenty-eight, while sitting in a friend’s backyard in the remote mining township of Jabiru, Heather Ellis has a light-bulb moment: she is going to ride a motorcycle across Africa.

4. And On That Bombshell – $32.99

I was Top Gear’s script editor for 13 years and all 22 series. I basically used to check spelling and think of stupid gags about The Stig. I also got to hang around with Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May. Then I realised that I had quite a few stories to tell from behind the scenes on the show. I remembered whose daft idea it was to get a dog. I recalled the willfully stupid way in which we decorated our horrible office. I had a sudden flashback to the time a Bolivian drug lord threatened to kill us.

I decided I should write down some of these stories. So I have. I hope you like them.

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Welcome to the gypsy world of the Continental Circus private entrants - warts and all - with the joys, camaraderie, heartache, laughs and low acts. It was a time when rider usually had to be truck driver, mechanic, cook and start-money negotiator as well. And management help? You wish! In the 1950s, it was considered un-Australian to push your own barrow.

7. Along for the ride – $39.95

Jim Scaysbrook has enjoyed a rich and varied life in which motorcycles have always been the common theme. Itching to follow his father’s footsteps, he began racing at the age of 16 and has since competed in virtually every form of competition, including both motocross and road racing at international level. He has competed on the American professional motocross scene, at the - infamous Isle of Man TT, and throughout Asia.

To Order Call 02 4956 9820 Shop online at www.cycletorque.com.au

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Contact: johnny@hearlink.com.au or Call Hearlink on 1300 HEARING •No hollow tubing www.noiseguard.com.au www.noiseguard.com.au •Tangle free, high quality, thick coiled conductive wiring for flexibility and A Custom Moulded Noise Plug and Music Listening Plug and Fully compatible with Jabra BT 3030 bluetooth device Interface all Built into One. Designed by Interface Receive and re dial phone calls Motorcyclists, for Motorcyclists.

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jamman@adam.com.au PH. 08 8351 7088 Adelaide’s only specialist motorcycle crash repairer, where unlike most of the dealers and mechanical shops who just do part replacement, we are proud of the fact we actually do repairs and almost all of the work is carried out ‘In House’.

Adelaide’s only motorcycle repairer in Suncorp Insurance Group’s ‘Specialist Repairer Network’.

We also carry out repairs for all other insurance companies.

We are excited to announce the addition of Paul ‘Bluey’ Harness to our team He brings with him a wealth of technical knowledge with over 35 years of experience and is factory trained on Suzuki, Yamaha and Honda brands up to current models.

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We look forward to being able to offer a more comprehensive range of mechanical services from minor servicing to major engine work.

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Race replicas are a specialty We also offer a pick up service for your crashed or broken down bike and a valet service to your work or home in the city or surrounding suburbs.

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cycletorque.com.au JAN/FEB 2017 I 84

HEL BRAKE PADS - NOW AVAILABLE! RACE AND STREET PADS NOW AVAILABLE! HEL Performance have just released their new line of HEL Performance Brake Pads, which feature two options – the Street Pro pads, which are SPD Sport HH+ compound pads recommended for late model sportsbikes, for road and track day performance. The Track Pro pads are designed specifically for the track to meet & exceed the extreme demands of national and international circuit racing with high friction race compound sintered metal pads!

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WORDS

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VIDEO

TORQUING BACK

cycletorque.com.au JAN/FEB 2017 I 86

Letters Teach your child the love of motorcycles and they’ll never have money for drugs…

Gday, after reading the Green Shoots article (Dec16) I was happy to know that there is another sporting choice for our young children and teenagers to have on the North Coast of NSW. I would also like to say thank you to Garry Thomas and the North Coast Road Racers’ club for their time and effort to make it possible. I’m a father of two boys and I feel the more sporting choices our children have on the North Coast the better! It helps them to focus on a goal and deters them from getting into or finding trouble, not to mention the skills they will develop and the fun the kids will have racing.

Kurt

Nothing’s gonna break my stride

I’m a digital subscriber to Cycle Torque. Since I a had a nasty prang on Labor Day weekend, back in 2015, I’ve been bike-less. But was I deterred from getting another bike? No way.

I looked forward to the mag to see what bikes you’ve tested and I watched all of your episodes on Aurora channel.

I wanted a bike with more upright seating.

The departed Blackbird was too sportsbikelike for me. So it came back to one of the nakeds or an adventure bike. Finally I settled on a current model Suzuki V-Strom 1000.

Last weekend was my first outing on it.

Three days in Victoria’s North East exploring the high country and darting into NSW for lunch at the pub in Jingellic.

The bike is fantastic. Comfortable, torquey engine and has a sweet note with an Akrapovič on it!

Thanks for providing me with a lot of

Write A Letter!

WIN A GREAT PRIZE

This month Marc has won an SJS 500amp Smart Start charger which feature a personal power pack and jump starter for the letter of the month.

Jump start your bike, car and phone. Thanks to Kenma, www.kenma.com.au Send your letters (and/or great bike pictures to The Editor, Cycle Torque, PO Box 687 Warners Bay, NSW 2282 or email letters@cycletorque.com.au

reference material to allow me to make the right decision.

Happy New Year to everyone, Martin Gippsland, Vic. Hi Martin Thanks for your feedback and glad to hear you are back in action!

I had lunch at the Jingellic pub in March this year.

And a swim in the Murray. It was 45 degrees in the shade and the water was bloody freezing. But it is a top spot, with some great riding! -RG

Guntrip retires…

No! Don’t do it! What will we do without your sage insights?

True, you aren’t the prettiest face in the mob (is this the first time your picture has been published?) but you’re still way better looking than this ugly old fart whose writing.

I still miss Peter Smith who sadly left permanently years ago. At least you are still alive. Maybe you will get an ‘old age crisis’ soon, see the error of your ways, and start writing again.

All the best - either way, Adrian

Don’t be a goose!

I am not surprised at the latest motorcycle crash and death statistics.

I ride to work four days a week usually and there is not a day that goes by that I don’t see someone riding like a bloody idiot.

Most of my commute is freeway at 100km/h.

I am happy to ride at this speed and follow the car in front of me at a safe distance.

Why is it then that some riders feel the need

to pass me at 140km/h, rev their engines like they want to tell me they have a fast bike, and filter through trucks at high speed?

All this does is give riders like me and others who value their lives a bad name….

I was riding behind a bloke the other day. He was jumping up and down on the pegs, trying to get past the car in front of him. Next second the car stopped suddenly and over the back he went. Right in front of me I saw it. He was being a dick. He was lucky but it could have been avoided if he had just kept a distance from the car in front of him.

Gentlemen (and I say Gentlemen because the statistics show that 90% of fatalities were men) - ride like an idiot - it’s not just a matter of if, but when you are the next statistic.

Marc Too right Marc. There is a time and a place to ride with gusto and it isn’t on the daily commute. I always wonder about the people who suck out my eyeballs for no apparent reason and I usually come to the conclusion it is to satisfy their insecurities.

Tailgaters are simply impatient and are bound to make a mistake sooner or later.

I also think its a bit subjective: we’ve probably all been ‘that person’ in someone else’s mind at least once, whether we thought we were, or not.

I suppose it comes down to whether that rider actually rides like that everywhere; or just in that moment.

Food for thought. -RG

cycletorque.com.au JAN/FEB 2017 I 87

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Racer

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SUMMER 2015

RACING: Classic TT Barry Sheene Festival of Speed Island Classic Australian TT HISTORY: Honda V4

Australia’s FIRST classic racing magazine cycletorque.com.au JAN/FEB 2017 I 88

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N MINNOVAETLIO MARV

AHR RACER TEST

Ducati TTF1

Words by Chris

by Pickett, Photos

an accomp , and has taken being and racer himself nance and race l Seeley frames many origina mainte but there’s care of the these days special race was well campaigned of this very s being TEVE Maney – his preparation a few replica in the UK This more than enough known ed the world. wanted bike. of the bike – for his modifi thrashed around expertise and homeland ’s When the owner t to the best in s but he ando engine bike uses Maney which proved so straigh in one he went Norton Comm quantity ation, based Seeley chassis the unknown ly the Minnov that s, day ation Island the busines was a relative back in the no at the 2010 successful England. Minnov the largely needed the north of when he arrived Island. By the end l design has te bikes and origina comple Phillip for n so to speak. they Racing sell Classic at gn them but modernificatio g he was known Seeley parts to campai of the meetin in house. Both ing speed of his the ment don’t do everyth two things: of this bike ando A HANKERING and his involve the and frame Seeley Comm the engine Commando ation who that saw particular lian up Minnov This to pile d Austra an were supplie in a start line more time ssioned by machine rather was commi rest of the spend rather just to have ed for. then put the Englishman Australia. collector, mainly ly raced. Things than he bargain its foray to Seeley together for in Australia serious fans, Colin with than to be out that way, To classic racing like a ction, and haven’t turned successfully racing ENGINE his needs no introdu builders from the son known for Lyell William classic frame Maney is well number of Seeley e in most major ando based the machin ’70s, the name lia over the 1007cc Comm 1960s and gs in Austra replica race meetin is quite ed on, with has continu classic of years. Lyell the for couple last built frames being be too There won’t racing scene.

S

––– 51 –––

Contents

AUSTRALIAN HISTORIC RACER 18

26

30

4

SNAPSHOT IN TIME

6

IN THE PITS

10

2016 ISLAND CLASSIC PREVIEW

12

RACING TECH

14

2016 BSFOS PREVIEW

16

EDITORIAL

18

RYE DUCATI

Chris Pickett

ADVERTISING

38

Dennis Penzo 0420 319 335 dennis@cycletorque.com.au

DESIGN & PRODUCTION Dionne Hagan dee@cycletorque.com.au

ACCOUNTS

Rebecca Eastment bec@cycletorque.com.au

50

PUBLISHER

Nigel Paterson PO Box 687, Warners Bay, NSW 2282 Ph (02) 4956 9820 Fax (02) 4956 9824 Email: info@cycletorque.com.au

58

REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS:

Darryl Flack, Don Cox, Phil Hall, Goggles Paesano, Brian Dyer, Peter Faragher, wpfotos.co.uk, SDPICS, Buggantar Photos.

Australian Historic Racer is published by Motorcycle Publishing Pty Ltd. ACN 085 871 147, ISSN number 2205-9768 Printed by Rural Press, North Richmond.

66

This work is Copyrighted. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form, including electronic, without written permission of the publisher. Please contact the editor before submitting freelance contributions.

RUST NEVER SLEEPS YAMAHA TZ750

36

THE SQUEAKY WHEEL TOM PHILLIS

46

BOOK SHOP

48

RACING GEAR

50

SEELEY COMMANDO

58

HONDA CB500/4

66

HONDA V4

72

1976 AUSTRALIAN TT

76

DENNIS NEILL TRIBUTE

82

2015 BSFOS WRAP UP

86

2015 ISLAND CLASSIC REVIEW

90

CLASSIC TT 2015

94

ON ANY RACEDAY

98

EVENTS

TEST

LIGHT AS A FEATHER

Kel went to great lengths to have the wheels turn freely, using a lighter chain and freer moving wheel bearings. To this day the bike has kept all of Kel’s

Australian Historic Racer

ideas of weight reduction and it can just about push itself along.

A 750/4 front end was fitted, with the dual brakes (500s originally had a single caliper), an oil cooler, firstly a regular four-into-one exhaust, and later a trick four-into-one system which could be pulled apart one header at a time.

In this form the bike was seriously fast for its time, with Kel wheelstanding it off the front row time after time to take many wins in the unlimited class.

The bike was as exotic as an historic racer could be at the time, with Dyna S coils and a rev limiter ensuring the bike was reliable as well as fast. Kel’s shining moment was beating much bigger bikes at Mount Panorama on this big bore 500.

Kel did most of the day to day maintenance of the bike and farmed out the engine for rebuilds when needed. In 1994 Kel took the engine to Mark Woolfrey, noted engine builder and mechanic for Yamaha’s factory team in Australia. Much of the work Masaaki San had done years before was still in good condition and relevant, but Woolfrey tweaked the engine in different areas, in line with current thinking at that time, including a very lightweight knife edged crankshaft. The capacity was brought back to 550cc as Woolfrey believed it would rev harder and make more horsepower at that capacity. Power at this time in its life was believed to be in the low 60s at the rear wheel.

––– 61 –––

Story by Chris Pickett, Photo Pickett and s by Chris Buggantar Photos.

AHR PICTORIA

L

YAMAHA’S TZ75 0 IS ONE OF COLLECTABL THE MOST E FACTORY RAC E BIKES EVER THE OWNER MADE. OF THIS BIKE DECIDED TO EVEN MORE MAKE HIS SPECIAL THA N THE ORIGINAL ACTO

F

TH

TUFF OF LeEgSe nd Australian Historic Racer

RY racing machines generally are built in very doubt the TZ750 small numbers, raced for a excitable handlin had a reputation for in the hands year or so g and power of the best and has few delivery riders and then left to peers as a languish in collectable racing machin sheds.

Some bikes e. are like your If you speak grandfather’s to current hammer, with and former owners of and nine handle these machin five heads es, racing s, never has one parts are robbed watered down as you far away from financi and physic for newer al and so on. machines al pain. A They can lose good mine had their identit along the way. a TZ750 powere friend of y d sidecar back in the 1980s and Yamaha’s TZ750 was tells the story of risking a bit like that, with many everything bikes financially import parts to into the hands finding their way from Englan of privateer d to rebuild the engine eventually . After doing riders, becoming practice at Park things uncompetitive Oran and resigne were looking d to being up, until the engine seized ornaments sheds. The on in the warm-up lap last TZ750 the first race to be serious for raced as a of the day. ly modern bike I’ve noticed still has a slight in Australia he was most nervous twitch likely the Gaytho you mentio when TZ ridden rne Yamah n a TZ750

by Michae a to him. l Dowson, with an FJ1100 fitted front end.

CLASS ACT They became too expens There has ive to run and too slow been to keep up of TZ750 machin a bit of a resurgence with bikes Yamaha’s es in recent like own FZR10 Australian years in 00. But there’s classic racing circles no generally they but have been ridden –––

31 –––

s

––– 3 –––

26 30

38

this 500/4 leaned up against the fence of a house just near Paul’s place. I knocked on the door and asked if it was for sale, and it was. I checked it out and realised it was my old bike, with all the Masaaki modified gear still on it. The bloke wanted $100, I couldn’t get my wallet out quick enough.”

It took some work to breathe racing life back into the little Honda but it wasn’t long before the bike was ready to terrorise more fancied machinery and opponents, just like it did a decade earlier.

Historic Racer Australian

s

AHR RACER

EDITOR

Y P O C L A T I G I D A Y OR TAP TO BU TORE FROM THE APP S

This bike was a cuttiung edge historic racer in the late 1980s and still is now. You might think the term ‘Cutting Edge’ is out of place in historic racing but not so. But one area where the bike could be improved is the carburettors. A modern set of Keihin CRs would make more power and be easier to deal with than these Kawasaki based 29mm Smoothbores. And check out the race programs, highlighting the bike’s history as a modern and classic racing machine.

Historic Racer Australian

ON THE COVER: RYE DUCATI PHOTO BY SDR

s YAMAHA TZ750 s SEELEY COMMANDO s HONDA 500/4

STAGER A GIVES AN OLD ON AN OLD IDEA OF LIFE FRESH BREATH builder lished engine

s

RRP: AUS $9.95 NZ $11.95 (Inc.GST)

Pics

A NEW TAKE

A LATIN OBSESSION

PLUS Dennis Neill Tribute – The Racer, The Man

t and SDR Chris Picket

Honda CB500/4

AHR RACER TEST

s

Australian Historic

CREDITS

cycletorque.com.au JAN/FEB 2017 I 89

cycletorque DIGITAL EDITOR RYAN GRUBB

MANAGING EDITOR N I G E L PAT E R S O N publisher@cycletorque.com.au

ADVERTISING DENNIS PENZO, 0420 319 335 dennis@cycletorque.com.au

DESIGN & PRODUCTION DIONNE HAGAN,THE D MEDIA DESIGN dee@cycletorque.com.au

WWW.CYCLETORQUE.COM.AU PO Box 687, Warners Bay, NSW 2282 Ph (02) 4956 9820 • Fax (02) 4956 9824 • info@cycletorque.com.au REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS: DARRYL FLACK, BOB GUNTRIP, DAVE MASON, KEITH MUIR, ALEX PICKETT, DARREN SMART, TODD REED, FRIEDEMANN KIRN, WWW.2SNAP.COM, COL WHELAN, AUNTY MAL, TONY ‘CARNAGE’ PENFOLD, RYAN GRUBB AND BRIAN DYER. Cycle Torque is published by Motorcycle Publishing Pty Ltd. ABN 91 085 871 147 Cycle Torque is available from bike shops across Australia. If you can’t find our latest issue, call 0420 319 335.

Copyright 2012. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form, including electronic, without written permission of the publisher.

PLEASE CONTACT THE EDITOR BEFORE SUBMITTING FREELANCE CONTRIBUTIONS.

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