Cycle Torque March 2016 issue by Cycle Torque

MORE GRUNT: HARLEY-DAVIDSON SOFTAIL SLIM S

cycletorque

MARCH 2016

For the love of motorcycling

PLUS FASTER ON TRACK:

RACE KITTED

YAMAHA’S WINNER:

YZ250F

KAWASAKI ZX-10R

TROY BAYLISS CLASSIC >> PRICE’S DAKAR >> GUNTRIP >> FLACK >> SMARTY >>

MOTO GUZZI’S TOUGHEST: AUDACE

WELCOME

March 2016

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WITH monthly downloads now frequently exceeding 10,000 copies, Cycle Torque’s digital editions are now more popular than most other Australian bike magazines - print and digital combined. Now, I’m sure a measure of that success can be attributed to Cycle Torque being free to the readers, but with the incredible array of material available online, being free isn’t good enough - you have to be worth reading, too.

However, the old business model of charging for the advertising and giving away the content for free isn’t working quite so well in the digital era: advertisers just aren’t willing to pay the same amount for a digital ad as they were for a print version, and the reduced costs of not printing don’t make up the difference.

INSTRUCTIONS EMAIL US YOUR FEEDBACK

So I’m going to ask readers to let advertisers know if you saw an ad in Cycle Torque and responded to it. I’d also like you to share the magazine, the App, the page through any social media platform you choose - let your friends know you read Cycle Torque and appreciate the fact it’s free. If you would like to directly support Cycle Torque, go to motobooks.com.au and pick yourself up one of the few remaining T-shirts in the current design, or buy one of our great books and DVDs - especially Eyes Wide Open, our story about Chris and Alex Pickett racing the Isle of Man. And if you’ve arrived this far down this column, please go to the iTunes store and leave a review and rate the magazine, too. – Nigel Paterson feedback@cycletorque.com.au

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CONTENTS

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Ridden

28 TEST

HARLEY-DAVIDSON SOFTAIL SLIM S

38 TEST

MOTO GUZZI AUDACE

47 TEST

2016 YAMAHA YZ250F

Regulars

56 FEATURE

KAWASAKI ZX-10R RACE KIT

On the cover: Audace by O’Connell, YZ by iKapture

NEWS TORQUE

BIKE STUFF

SMALL TORQUE

USED & REVIEWED

EDITORIAL

BOOK SHOP

DIRTY TORQUE

TORQUE BACK - LETTERS

RACE TORQUE

MARKET TORQUE

GUNTRIP

CREDITS

cycletorque.com.au MARCH 2016 I 4

NEWS TORQUE

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Yamaha R3 Cup gets the go-ahead YAMAHA Australia has announced it is proceeding with the YMF/YMI R3 Cup this year, a single-model racing series based around an inexpensive small-capacity machine aimed at giving riders great fun and good experience without breaking the bank. The competition will be held over five rounds, four of which will be held in conjunction with the ASBK championship. Steven Cotterell, Yamaha Motors Australia (YMA) General Manager said, “YMA encourages the R3 Cup to be an entry level competition, with the emphasis on the enjoyment of riding and competing on equal and cost effective machinery. “The intention is to introduce new riders to the sport and to help build a more solid future for Australian road racing.” The 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 to road racing. Motorcycling Australia is in the process of finalising the competition rules, saying they will be simple and straight forward, utilising most of the existing over 300 production class rules. The track-optimised Yamaha R3 is being sold for $7,900 and includes race fairings, Akrapovic full race exhaust, race rearsets, handlebar lowering kit, gearing set (1 front, 2 rear), suspension kit, graphics kit, crash knobs and case covers. The majority of the prizes and contingencies will be focused on the lower grades and newcomers. ‘A’ graders, internationals, former champions and VIPs will be welcome to compete but will not be eligible for prizes. YMF are also offering finance for the track focussed R3. Visit http://www.yamaha-motor.com.au/hotnews/motorcycle/yzf-r3-cup-gets-green-light for an application form.

NEWS TORQUE

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Royal Enfield Himalayan We provide a one- stop shop for all your motorcycle, mule and ATV needs. Have a browse through our Virtual Used Bikes Showroom, which displays a cross section of our stock - approx 160 bikes on the floor.

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DURING a recent trip to the Goodwood Revival Festival the UK, rumours circulated of a new Royal Enfield that would be a radical departure for the company.

Royal Enfield has announced the arrival of the Himalayan—a motorcycle purpose-built for adventure and touring in the Himalayas. The Himalayan brings together 60 years of Himalayan riding experiences in a completely ground-up design, powered by a new 410cc engine paving the way for a non-extreme and more accessible form of adventure touring in India and around the world. Indian say “Its extremely capable off-road capabilities make it adept for riding though potholed urban jungles as it does for treacherous mountain trails”, but we assume they are comparing it to its own stable of road bikes rather than a European or Japanese adventure bike. Built on a rugged duplex split cradle frame designed and developed by Harris Performance, the Himalayan looks like it will be equally stable and agile, with 220 mm of ground clearance and large wheels. n

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NEWS TORQUE

Hip German BMW has announced the R nineT Scrambler, the first variant on the groundbreaking R nineT platform. The new model harks back to the days of deep-treaded off-road capable tyres, high pipes, long travel suspension and big, comfortable seats. BMW even has a bit of history here - in 1951 the company presented an R 68 in scrambler style (with a high pipe), built to replicate the bike ridden by BMW racing’s Georg “Schorsh” Meier. The R nineT Scrambler has the 110hp (81kW) flat-twin engine, raised exhaust, 19-inch front wheel and there’s a huge range of ways to customise the machine. For example, the pillion passenger subframe can be removed, shortening-up the tail of the bike. It certainly won’t be as off-road capable as BMW’s GS range, but the new Scrambler certainly looks like it will be a lot of fun off the bitumen as well as blasting along winding roads. n

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NEWS TORQUE

Hogs for the homeless Harley-Davidson has teamed up with New South Wales Rugby League to support the 2016 Hogs for the Homeless ride. Hogs for the Homeless is a three-week tour that focuses on raising awareness and funds for youth homelessness through Father Chris Riley’s Youth Off the Streets charity. The tour will finish up at Brookvale Oval before the Sea Eagles-Bulldogs Round 1 NRL game Friday, March 4. The tour departed from Terry Hills Tavern Thursday, February 11 with a performance by Phil Jamieson and a charity auction conducted by Tim Gilbert, visiting Mudgee, Forbes, Wagga Wagga, Cooma, Bombaderry, Gunnedah, Glen Innes, Lennox Head, Gloucester, Cessnock, Oberon, Penrith, Campbelltown and St Marys..

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Adam Wright, spokesperson for Harley-Davidson said, “through involvement with HarleyDavidson Australia, we’ve been able to help spread the word and bring the troubling issue of youth homelessness in our community to light with the help of our national dealer network and some of Rugby League’s biggest names. “That in itself has been a great reward for our team and the dealers involved.” According to Homelessness in Australia, 1 in 200 people in the country are homeless and 27 percent are under the age of 18. In 2012, there were nearly 47,000 homeless young people under the age of 25 in Australia. Rugby League legends Nathan Hindmarsh, Brad Fittler, Ian Schubert, Matt Cooper, Steve Menzies, Josh Perry, Jack Elsegood, Steve Roach, and Jarrod McCracken, musician Phil Jameson and V8 Supercar driver David Reynolds will be tackling the charity ride. Harley-Davidson Australia and New Zealand are supporting the fundraising by providing a motorcycle as first prize in the raffle. First prize is a Harley-Davidson Hard Candy Custom Gold Flake Forty-Eight, valued at $19,995. To lend your support, you can purchase Hogs for the Homeless raffle tickets or donate directly to Youth Off The Streets. For more information on the tour and links to donate, please visit http://www.nswrl.com.au/ community/hogs-for-the-homeless.html n

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2016 World Superbike opener The 2016 World Superbike season kicks off once again at Phillip Island, February 26-28, with a new format to the racing where one Superbike race will be on Saturday and one on Sunday.

scary proposition at the same time,” Jones said.

Largely designed to improve television audiences around the world, running the two races across two days should make the event better for fans attending both days, but it means you’ll miss one of the big events if you can only make it there on the Sunday. However, the organisers are promising more spectatorbased activities and excitement at the circuit, so it might be good all round - and the second race of the meeting shouldn’t be in the wee small hours of Monday mornings when the championship goes back to Europe, which will be nice.

In World Supersport, former Moto2 winner Ant West, Kane Burns and Mitch Levy will join Glenn Scott, Aiden Wagner and Lachlan Epis to fly the Aussie flag on the grid.

The World SuperSport Championship still gets the single race each weekend, on the Sunday. Teams have completed a largely disrupted twoday Aragon test earlier in the month due to high winds, and will have just completed a final test at Phillip Island days before competition gets underway. Australia will get its first look at 2015 British Superbike champion Josh Brookes on a BMW. Brookes said earlier in January, his S 1000 RR felt quite similar to the YZF-R1 he won the BSB championship on, but it was too early to compare the bikes after a two-day test at Jerez with a

“Top 15 is always a goal, and a top 10 finish would be awesome.”

West is looking to put a frustrating Moto2 season behind him as he races a Yamaha R6 under the Green Tea X50 team owned by Steve Trinder Jnr. whole season of BSB. Brookes will have a tough time of it against the rampaging Kawasaki’s of Johnny Rea and Tom Sykes, the team-mates on the new ZX-10R and out to continue Kawasaki’s increasing recent dominance of the class.

“I am looking forward to getting on a bike that has all the potential to win the World Supersport race at Phillip Island”, West said. In other WSBK news, Alex de Angelis and Lorenzo Savadori have also been confirmed at the 11th hour to put Aprilia on the WSBK grid.

At this stage, it looks like there will be 10 Aussies competing throughout both Supersport and Superbike classes.

There may still be some doubt over de Angelis, who had a huge off at the Japanese GP in October and hasn’t ridden since.

2015 ASBK champion Mike Jones will make a oneoff appearance with Jed Metcher in the Superbike class, joining Brookes and Kawasaki rider Josh Hook.

“My current condition is as yet unknown,” de Angelis said.

Jones will also debut for the new DesmoSport Ducati team co-managed by three-time Superbike champ Troy Bayliss. “The wildcard ride is awesome, but also a slightly

2015 World Champion Johnathon Rea tried to sneak onto the island with his family (Rea’s wife Tatia is from Cowes) for New Years Eve. The family was greeted to a sign on the Phillip Island tourist road welcoming the champ ‘home’. – Ryan Grubb

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Oil and water don’t mix INCLEMENT weather didn’t stop thousands of race fans heading to Taree for the annual Troy Bayliss Classic, held January 16. Unfortunately, the final had to be cancelled due to poor weather. A disappointed Bayliss said, “I would have chopped off my other pinky [finger] to be able to run the Americana, Superpole and Troy Bayliss Classic.” Taree Motorcycle Club has recently resurfaced the oil-based track, which provided some close racing throughout the heats. The intense rivalry of four-time World Champion, Finish rider Joonas Kylmakorpi and our own Jason Crump continued, both trading blows for one win each in the lead up heats. Crowd favourite Masatoshi Ohmori came to grief falling heavily in one heat. Bruised and winded, the likeable Japanese was all smiles after the spill. A race-fan standing near Bayliss was overheard in the pits saying, “Hey Champ, ya’ gunna give these blokes a floggin’?” To Troy’s smiling reply, “That’s the general idea,” to the delight of the crowd. Bayliss thanked Taree Motorcycle Club, officials and competitors for their commitment and flexibility working with the trying conditions. “It was a great day considering,” Bayliss said. A spokesperson from Troy Bayliss Events said “no date has been selected for 2017, however planing is already under way for the event. “This year we tried our best but the weather eventually overcame us. “Troy was on the spot, with officials and riders alike, desperately trying to find a way forward for the highlight evening session, and is determined to see the event bigger and better next year.” n Photos by James Ward, Ed Tricket & Todd Taylor

NEWS TORQUE

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Women riders’ world record 2WheelBabes and Dagger Events are planning to reclaim the world record for the most women on motorcycles on Saturday, April 9. The event will be held at Dubbo Showground. This event is open to everyone to spectate but only women over the age of 16 can register to participate as either a rider or a pillion. Each lady who registers will receive on arrival a numbered t-shirt and loot bag. They will also join in a group ride leaving from the Showground down the main street of Dubbo returning to the Showground to participate in market stalls and entertainment. The group celebrates women of all ages who love to ride on all types of bikes as well as female pillions, admirers and lovers of motorcycles and holds annual weekend events in Byron Bay, NSW and Echuca, Northern Victoria. The Babe Raid Rally is currently the biggest all women’s motorcycle weekend event held internationally. During these events donations are also raised by 2WheelBabes in support of two charities: ‘Start in Life Foundation’ and ‘Battens Organization’. Babe Raid has grown from 120 women attending the inaugural 2010 Ballina event to an impressive 284 women who came from all over Australia to attend the 2014 Babe Raid Ballina Rally. In 2014, 2WheelBabes set the world record of most women on motorcycles at 221 women on 190 bikes. In 2015 a group in the UK beat this with 246 women on motorcycles and also set a new world record of “most women at a female bike meet”. The Aussies aim to regain the record and beat their record of most women at a bike meet. 2WheelBabes was started in 2009 aimed at women motorcyclists who can be at times a forgotten group within the community. More information on 2WheelBabes, its Ethos and supported charities can be found on the website at www.2WheelBabes.com n

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NEWS TORQUE

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The Price of Dakar

KTM’S Toby Price is the first Australian to win the world’s toughest motorcycle rally raid event, the Dakar, taking out the 2016 South-American run event in January. Price would win the second stage but suffer a navigation error in stage three, dropping a long way down the leaderboard, before clawing back time over the two-week event and dominating during the middle section of the rally. Price had learnt from the 2015 event, where he finished third in his Dakar debut, what the event was all about, and he knew he was in with a shot of winning with the retirement from the event of both Marc Coma and Cyril Despres - two riders who have dominated the event for about a decade. Price said after the event he didn’t think he was going to win. In an interview with one of his sponsors, Red Bull, the 28 year-old from Maitland in the NSW Hunter Valley said “I definitely wanted to back up that third-place finish with another podium position to say to everybody that we didn’t fluke the first one [in 2015]. I was hoping we could do better, but I never would have expected to win it on a second attempt. As a racer you’re always there to win, you don’t go to finish second, but in the game of the Dakar Rally, it’s normally a long process before you start being competitive enough to win. “I was coming in really nervous and didn’t know what to expect. In the last 10 years only two guys have won this race, so with Despres moving to cars and Coma retiring and running the event, it basically opened the doors to

everybody. None of us knew what was going to happen or where we were going to end up. It was pretty nerve-wracking. “I’m sure KTM was a little bit nervous because Coma was Mr Consistent. I just didn’t want to let the KTM team down. With my win, it’s now 15 years straight they’ve been winning this race. “I was thinking, ‘Geez, I don’t want it to end at 14 for them,’ and be part of that change after they’ve been so dominant. It was good to come away with a win and pay them back for basically taking a gamble on me, still being relatively new to all this.” While the Dakar is always a tough event, heavy rain in the first week and extreme temperatures meant the shortening of a number of sections and many competitors suffering in the conditions. Price said the 856km stage 11 was the toughest in 2016. “We were up at about 2 o’clock in the morning, on the bike at about quarter to three, and I don’t think we finished the day until about 4:30 in the afternoon. It was a really long day. The ride in the morning was a 420km liaison ride to get to the start of the special [test]. The biggest challenge I found was when the sun Continued on next page

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The Price of Dakar Continued from previous page

was just starting to crack and you’ve been up that long already, you start to nod off a bit. I’ve never wanted to fall asleep on a motorcycle in my life, but Dakar definitely does this to you. It makes your days extremely hard. There were also issues with the route with both Peru and Chile refusing to allow the rally in their countries, restricting the Dakar mainly to Argentina for this year.” So how did Price stay awake? “If you’re in a liaison section you’re able to stop and get off the bike, slap yourself around the head a little bit, run up the hill and back, try to do some push-ups – you’re burning a bit of energy but you just have to try to wake yourself up a bit. If you’re in the middle of a special stage, it sounds crazy but you have to come into a turn a little hot and scare yourself a bit or clip something where the bike gets a little out of shape and you have to control it. It just gives you a bit of adrenalin and keeps you going for another 20 or 30km. Then you start nodding off a little bit more and do it again. Then you pull up for a fuel stop and throw some caffeine gels in and sink a few Red Bulls and you’re good to go.” Price discovered one of the benefits of modern life is getting congratulations on social media from his heroes. “Never in my wildest dreams did I think guys like Daniel Ricciardo, Mark Webber, Eric Bana and Casey Stoner would be tweeting me to say congratulations. To have KTM team manager Roger DeCoster – an icon of motorcycling – holding a pit board saying, ‘Toby is the man’, that doesn’t happen every day. I appreciate all the support from back home in Australia, and also worldwide. It’s been absolutely amazing.” Another former motorcycle winner, Stephane Peterhansel (with co-driver JeanPaul Cottret) won the car class.

Photos by KTM/Kin M./ Bauer E./Rallyzone

*1 3 Australia Toby Price KTM Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 48:09:15 2 5 Slovakia Stefan Svitko KTM Slovnaft Team 48:48:56 + 39:41 3 4 Chile Pablo Quintanilla Husqvarna Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Team 48:58:03 + 48:48 4 47 Argentina Kevin Benavides Honda Honda South America Rally Team 49:04:02 + 54:47 5 7 Portugal Hélder Rodrigues Yamaha Yamalube Yamaha Official Rally Team 49:04:59 + 55:44 6 42 France Adrien van Beveren Yamaha Yamalube Yamaha Junior Rally Team 49:55:44 + 1:46:29 7 49 France Antoine Méo KTM Red Bull KTM Factory Team 50:06:02 + 1:56:47 8 23 Spain Gerard Farrés KTM Himoinsa Racing Team 50:10:15 + 2:01:00 9 48 United States Ricky Brabec Honda Team HRC 50:20:42 + 2:11:27 10 45 Spain Armand Monléon KTM KTM Warsaw Rally Team 51:37:04 + 3:27:49 n

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C cycletorque.com.au Ycycletorque.com.au C L E T O R Q U E FMARCH EMARCH BRUAR Y 2 0I I16 1 5 2016 2016 16

Touratech adventure The Touratech Adventure Challenge will take place in the Alpine town of Bright with displays and test rides starting on Friday, March 18 and the action from the next day. Challenge competitors will participate over a range of unique skill-based challenges – both on and off the bike – as well as including some team components that will form part of the judging process. The Adventure Challenge is based on popular events run by Touratech in Germany. It is open to riders of all abilities, starting with qualifying, followed by the event finals held on the Saturday afternoon. Riders are encouraged to bring their mates and enter as a group, or simply to bring their families and come along and spectate.

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A real highlight of the day will be the chance for members of the general public to view and test ride a large range of motorcycles from the industry’s leading brands. Aprilia, BMW, Honda, KTM, Suzuki, Triumph and Yamaha will all be represented, making it the perfect chance for motorcyclists to compare bikes and test ride their desired machine. Test rides will get underway from 9am on the Saturday morning at Pioneer Park in Bright. The Touratech Adventure Challenge tests will begin at 7.30am on Saturday, March 19, with riders returning to Pioneer Park at 3pm, before the finals are held between 4.30 and 6.30pm that afternoon. Spectator maps will be available, allowing enthusiasts to visit the various locations being used, and to witness the special tests first hand.

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A video presentation of the day’s competition will be held at Pioneer Park from 7.30pm, with the event presentations to follow afterwards. The Sunday ride will be one of the real highlights, which this year has a bushranger theme and will take in historic locations such as Stringybark Creek, Power’s Lookout and Paradise Falls following in the footsteps of Ned Kelly and Harry Power while traversing some of North East Victoria’s most spectacular countryside. The event cost of $750 includes three nights accommodation and all meals from Friday evening until Monday morning. This year’s presentations will include Compass Expeditions’ Mick McDonald speaking about on-road preparation, maintenance and repairs, while on Sunday night the topic will be packing for adventure travel. For more information call (03) 5929 5529 or check out www.touratech.com.au n

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BMW RR Experience BMW’s RR Experience will offer riders the chance to compare their current machine with bikes like the S 1000 RR and others on closed closed circuits around Australia. The RR experience is being held at Sydney Motorsport Park, March 8-9; Phillip Island, March 16 and Queensland Raceway, May 26. To find out more information, go to www. bmwmotorrad.com.au/rrexperience

Youngest racer Australian Lachlan Epis will become the youngest ever rider to compete in world supersport full-time when the 2016 championship gets underway at Phillip Island this February 26-28. Epis, who turned 16 on December 22 and hails from Sydney, will eclipse the previous benchmark held by Frenchman Maxime Berger, who was about sixth months older (16 years and eight months) when he made his WorldSSP full-time debut way back in 2006 – when Epis was six…

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After competing in the 2015 Superstock 600 European Championship, Epis was all set to continue on the same path in 2016 before it was announced the series would be discontinued.

Find your Suzuki Suzuki Motorcycles is delighted to announce the launch of the “Stock Locator” feature on suzukimotorcycles.com.au Simplifying the online shopping experience, this new function allows the customer to pinpoint the location of the nearest dealer who is carrying floor stock and/or demonstrators of their chosen model. Located within the “View Availability” tab on each model page, customers simply enter their postcode, immediately presenting the nearest stocking dealers, the dealership’s address and contact details, colours in stock, demonstrator units ready for test rides and where applicable superseded models in stock for those looking for a great run-out deal or a particular colour scheme.

BWPMCC reunion postponed FOLLOWING a club meeting, Bankstown Wiley Park Motorcycle Club has regretfully decided to postpone their reunion dinner. The dinner planned for March 12 was to celebrate the club’s 65th anniversary. n

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BMW’s 2016 GS Safari & Safari Enduro BMW has announced its latest GS Safari Enduro will run from Streaky Bay (SA) to Broken Hill (NSW) from July 24-30. Registrations open on March 29 and are expected to fill quickly, with a strict limit on the amount of places available. The event is for experienced and technically capable BMW GS riders, with challenging terrain to test both man and motorcycle, this is the ultimate off-road adventure. The epic 6-day journey will take riders through some classic Australian outback landscapes, from the South Australian coast at Streaky Bay, to vast open plains and salt lakes, including Lake Eyre before heading towards Arkaroola and the Flinders Ranges, highlighting the incredible jagged mountain ranges surrounded by desert. The last leg departs Wilpena Pound through outback pastoral leases before concluding at the historic mining city of Broken Hill. A little easier on man and machine but still entirely off the bitumen, the GS Safari, November 6-11, will be an awesome event. The South East region of the Sunshine State will be the starting point for the 2016 BMW GS Safari. More details will be released in the coming weeks. Registrations open August 9. For updates and further information: www.bmwsafari.com

Triumph Rat Rally The sound of hundreds of Triumph motorcycles strapping through Australia’s best mountain roads will mark the 2016 Triumph Rat Rally which is to be held at the Jindabyne Station Resort from 11th – 13th March. Triumph is gearing up for their biggest rally yet, with more rides scheduled each day making the most of the fantastic snowy mountain roads and local destinations. More demo ride opportunities with demo rides scheduled from Friday afternoon and all day Saturday including the opportunity to test the new Bonneville Street Twin and T120 range. The entertainment line up is due to include 80’s rock cover bands, comedians and stunt riders. In addition, Triumph Australia’s technical manager Cliff Stovall will be around to talk one on one with customers on the new range of models for 2016 which feature some great technical innovations and safety features. If you own a Triumph, then come along and bring your friends, regardless of what they ride Triumph welcomes all friends of Triumph to the national Rat Rally at Jindabyne for 2016. Tickets are just $150 and include meals, entertainment and a commemorative T-shirt plus more. Find out More at http:// www.triumphmotorcycles.com.au/news-and-events/events/

Black Dog Ride 2016 The annual Black Dog Ride will be held throughout 34 locations in every state and territory in Australia, on March 20. Established in 2009, The Black Dog ride ride aims to raise awareness of depression and suicide prevention. To donate, register and find your nearest Black Dog Ride location, go to www.blackdogride.com.au n

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EDITORIAL

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Riding fast… sort of Elsewhere in this issue you’ll find my report on the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R equipped with some of the optional race kit parts and slick tyres from the Sepang circuit, Malaysia. This bike blew me away - incredibly fast and not in the least bit intimidating. It was the first time I’ve ridden an open-class sportsbike at a circuit and not felt in fear of life and limb for years - and I put that down to the electronics and modern design and materials. I also need to admit here it’s been a long time since I rode a large capacity bike on a track with gusto - with Isle of Man racers Alex Pickett (who has now moved to the UK in part to pursue his TT dream) and Chris Pickett relinquishing the editor’s chair, I got the nod to be the only Australian journo* at the World Launch of the ZX10R. The last big bike I rode at a fast track was the first of the BMW S 1000 RRs, and I was blown away by how easy that machine was to ride fast too. Chris Pickett tested the standard ZX-10R at the Australian launch recently and his article is the cover story of the last issue, so I’m not going to rehash his story in these pages, but the race kit-equipped bike blew me away so much it was definitely worth including in this issue, and I shot footage for the next series of Cycle Torque TV - but that might not be on the small screen until well into winter, so we have cut and uploaded a video segment about the new bike to Youtube already - just search for Cycle Torque where you’ll find hundreds of videos which have been viewed 4 million times. However I’ve also been busy with MotoGuide, our new

magazine available from newsagents and our online store www.motobooks.com.au. It’s filled with the latest and greatest bikes available in 2016 - tests from previous issues of Cycle Torque, a big comparison of Ducati’s Multistrada DVT, the BMW S 1000 XR and Aprilia’s Caponord Touring, as well as lots of 2016 new model news and a price guide. Cycle Torque’s 2016 MotoGuide will be available now for $7.50. It joins Australian Historic Racer on the newsagents’ shelves, Pickett’s new baby full of race bike tests, features on racing recent and historic and lots more. Check it out if you’re into road racing, classic machinery or both. WITH Pickett vacating the editor’s chair, we’ve made some changes to the way things run here at Cycle Torque HQ. When Pickett started at Cycle Torque we had a monthly magazine and a website we update once a month or so. Now the website is updated most days (well, on days when there’s someone in the office), we have digital editions for iPad, iPhone and PDF, email newsletters, our Youtube channel and the magazine. Oh, then there’s social media - jump onto Facebook and like our page and check out our instagram feed. Oh, and a TV show. Yep, we’ve done three series of TV and we’re starting to work on the fourth, finding sponsors, bikes and more. Ryan Grubb has almost finished his film and television/ communication degree, so he’s here during office hours unless he’s at university, and has the role of digital editor. I’m writing, presenting and producing,

Cycle Torque was at the world launch of the ZX-10R, shooting the bike for Cycle Torque TV.

so I’m thinking of changing my job title to chief button pusher. If you haven’t checked out all the things we do in the digital and video space, go to www.cycletorque.com.au and follow the links - there’s a lot more to Cycle Torque than the magazine, whether you read the print or a digital version. Between the TV show, Cycle Torque and our special issues it’s been really busy and with heaps of great new bikes heading our way throughout 2016 it looks like being a great year to be a motorcyclist. – Nigel Paterson *Actually, I ran into Rennie Scaysbrook at the launch, but he’s working for American magazine Cycle News.

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DIRTY TORQUE

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When Chad Retires Sadly, the end is near. Chad Reed will be retiring at some stage between now and the end of the 2016 or 2017 seasons and it will be the end of an extremely rewarding career but for us Aussies the question has to be asked – will we ever see another Australian rider winning championships on the international motocross and supercross stage again?

When Reed turned Pro at the tender age of 16 he instantly made his mark on the world of motocross and here we are 18 years later and Chad is still in contention for the 2016 AMA Supercross Championship. What Reed has done for Australia and the Australian motocross and supercross scene is immeasurable and he will be sorely missed when the time comes to hang up the boots. And it’s not like Chad is the only Aussie to have a crack at the international motocross and supercross scene. Stephen Gall won a European supercross race back in 1982 and since then we have had Craig Dack, Michael Byrne, Craig Anderson, Jay Marmont, Ryan Marmont, Jake Moss, Matt Moss, Daniel Reardon, Adam Monea, Todd Waters and Dean Ferris vie for international stardom and to be fair none made the same impact or garnered the same results as Reed. Jeff Leisk went from multi Australian motocross and supercross champion to picking up solid finishes in the AMA motocross and supercross series before almost winning the World 500cc Motocross Championship in 1989 while Andrew McFarlane did it the other way around and went to Europe first and became the most celebrated Australian to have Email us your ever raced the World Motocross feedback Championship before heading to the States to contest the

AMA Motocross and Supercross Championships with mixed results.

Despite the efforts of all of the riders above Chad was a step ahead of everyone else. In his rookie year Chad finished second to Michael Pichon in the 2001 World 250cc Motocross Championship then backed that up by winning the 125cc East Coast Supercross Championship in his first year on American soil before becoming a household name in the land of the Stars and Stripes by winning the 2004 and 2008 AMA Supercross Championships and the 2009 AMA Motocross Championship while battling the giants of the sport including Ricky Carmichael and James Stewart. In 2016, Chad is back on factory Yamaha machinery and has led two main events, running second in the series behind Ryan Dungey in the early part of the championship and only time will tell how his season will pan out. No matter what, Chad has earned the admiration and respect of his fellow riders and millions of fans. So who is next? Lawson Bopping, Hayden Mellross, Luke Clout and Jackson Richardson are over in America competing right now (Clout and Richardson are injured at the time of writing) but it is yet to be seen if they can climb their way to the pointy end of the most competitive field of racers in the world while off the top of my head we also have Jay Wilson, Wilson Todd, Jed Beaton, Hunter Lawrence, Mitchell Evans, Nathan Crawford, Caleb Ward, Wade Hunter, Jayden

Rykers, Jack Simpson, Cooper Pozniak (to name a few) showing plenty of promise. I am sure each and every one of these racers would love to be the next Aussie star but it takes more than just the desire, it takes raw talent, commitment, sacrifice and probably the most important ability of all is to be able to rise to the occasion time and time again when many are expecting you to fail… That is what makes Reed so special – that man never gave up, to this very day Chad starts each and every race to win despite the knockers, the haters and the people who write him off at the start of every season – it takes true Aussie grit to continually throw yourself into the heart of the fire and it takes someone special to keep coming out without even a blister… and that is what Chad has done since he was 16 years of age! Is there really anyone out there who has what it takes to be the next Chad Reed? – Darren Smart

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Track Changes – Part II As the old saying goes, ‘the more things change, the more things stay the same’. To much fanfare on November 20, 2015 we were all told that Troy Bayliss Events would be taking over the running of the ASBK from the 2016-17 motoSBK summer series on a threeyear joint venture between MA and TBE. Just ten weeks later, the worst kept secret in racing was laid bare when it was announced that Troy and his team would not be running the summer series because there will be no summer series. Don’t you get that feeling that we’ve been here before? I don’t want to criticise anyone in particular simply because he was the spokesman at the motoSBK launch at the Sydney Motorcycle Show. I know Peter Goddard reasonably well. We’ve had several discussions about the state of local road racing over the years. Peter is a great guy who cares deeply about the sport. I think the latest astonishing back-flip says a lot more about MA than Peter. Here’s what the MA board member and onetime MA critic said: “To be able to lock away the next four years of the championship and partner up with Troy Bayliss Events highlights how far MA has come with the series in the past 12 months. We knew it was going to take a lot of hard work to get the series back to this point, and the next four years promises to see continued growth, development and security, which is what we all want.”

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Troy Bayliss is one of the bravest riders to walk the third rock from the sun. Hell, he even took on dirttrack promotion and transformed the long-forgotten discipline with the inaugural Troy Bayliss Classic.

But the idea of running a 2016 winter ASBK series and a 2016-17 summer series was never going to fly, but this is what was announced after MA’s Whole of Sport review heralded a new era of decision-making clarity. Just two months later, it was canned and Bayliss’s long-term role remains unclear after the ASBK press release stated that the defunct summer series “is now expected to run through a regular calendar year in 2017.” (Italics mine) I worked in public relations for a decade and have seen how the best spin-meisters go about delivering ill tidings. The press release issued by MA announcing the most unpalatable news is about the best I have ever seen. It really is a work of art. “We are inspired and motivated by all who are involved in the sport to make the ASBK championship an affordable and sustainable series,” MA CEO David Cottee explicated. “We have listened to our teams and competitors, partners and our valued sponsors. “[They] have expressed that by rescheduling two of the ASBK championship rounds for 2016, we have put ourselves in good stead to welcome what the future of this national series has in store. We are hoping that with this announcement, we can embrace more positive changes to the series and will endeavour to make the process as smooth and sustainable as possible.” This was no embarrassing back-flip. It sounded more like a presidential campaign stump speech that had me buzzing about the future… until I quickly woke up and escaped the clutches of this saccharine whirl. What is it about MA that it continues

Wayne Maxwell and the Yamaha team will be racing at the first round of the Australian Superbike Championships, one of the support classes for the Australian round of the SWC at Phillip Island, Feb 26-28.

to make key decisions effecting the sport at the highest levels and has great difficulty in living up to them? What I do know that ever since MA prematurely terminated the services of Terry O’Neill’s tenure to run the ASBK, its management of the series would have to be text-book case of how not to oversee a national sporting series. Honestly the last seven years would fill several volumes. When I asked O’Neill why he got the boot, he told me he wasn’t entirely sure but said that he later heard that behind closed doors he was referred to as “trouble”. This was code for someone who wanted to run the series in his own way, which he was paid to do. By most accounts he did it competently. If O’Neill was ‘trouble’, what in heaven’s name has the ASBK been in for years? – Darryl Flack

GUNTRIP

All our yesterdays The run down to Phillip Island has always seemed to me interminable. Whether it’s because of the excitement of anticipation, or that I can’t remember ever having done the whole thing in dry weather, I couldn’t tell you. At least this time San Remo Bridge was clear – which was, I suspect, because I was running late. The Classic crowd like to get going early and by the time I’d got to the footbridge across Gardner Straight it was obvious that this party – the 2016 International Island Classic – had started without me. The Sunday was but the last day of three and boasted a bewildering 30 events of perfunctory duration. Eventually though I managed to sort the sheep from the goats, making sure I was trackside for both rounds of the Mitchelton Wines International Challenge and each of the 500cc Classic/350cc Post Classic events, in which old acquaintance Bob Rosenthal would, I hoped, be running near the head of the field on the G50 Matchless formerly campaigned by Jim Scaysbrook. For the remainder of the time it was difficult to hold a conversation while keeping track of what was happening on the circuit. But surely the most entertaining distraction of the day lay in wandering among the hardware on display in the public car parks. The joy of Classic corroborees is that you get everything. To be fair I didn’t see a single Ner-a-Car, but there was a good spread of stuff I’d hoped to see and one or two things I never expected to clap eyes on during my time on Earth.

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We were off to a good start: corralled not far from one of the coffee stalls that dot the paddock were a pair of fine Ducatis, a cherry

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red GT750 and 750 Sport, looking even longer and rangier than I remember from long decades ago. Not far from them came the surprise of the day: a V-twin Royal Enfield that consisted of two Bullet engines. To my shame I don’t recall looking at the crankcase, nor the carburation, nor the front end. Really, I still wonder if I was hallucinating. Walking round to Southern Loop I spotted not one but three (3) teal CB750s that looked as if they’d just rolled out of the factory. There was a red one in the group too and a CB350F nearby, but the teal brothers had it. Pick of the day from Honda. It was that kind of gathering. Within a couple of hundred metres of one another were two Triumph X75 Hurricanes, which surely must constitute some kind of record. I’d spotted the Velocette club too, back in the paddock, maintaining a tasteful distance from lesser machinery, but there was plenty of British hardware out in the field. Dan and I had been standing at Siberia for half an hour or so when the eccentrics puttered past, among them what looked like a flyblown G9 Matchless and a rat Triumph. Next came the comedians, four blokes on CT110 postie bikes – one of which sported a Hayabusa fairing. Finally the aristocracy arrived: a Vincent – Black Shadow, I think – a 180-degree crank Laverda triple and, most surprising of all, a late-model shortstroke Manx Norton complete with speedo, lights and indicators – and a kick start. My bike of the meeting, overlooked by many no doubt, stood close by. More years back than I care

to remember, when I got my first job in journalism, Kawasaki was rampant. Everybody who had aspirations to superbike stardom used a Kawasaki lump, at least until the advent of the four-valve GSX Suzuki; and the embodiment of everything tough and muscular came along in 1979, in the guise of the Z1000 MkII. And here it was again, looking stronger than ever. This was a blue one; Moriwaki flavouring, tastefully worked fourinto-one, upside-down forks, six-piston calipers on the front discs and a business-like swingarm. Which is what, surely, Classic meetings are about: reviving memories, embellishing them, reliving the glory days. Speaking of which, Bob Rosenthal did okay. He retired from the first race when a wayward stone tore the G50’s primary drive belt but had a high old time fending off the rest of the four-strokes in the second. See you at Eastern Creek. – Bob Guntrip

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HARLEY-DAVIDSON SOFTAIL SLIM S

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CYCLE TORQUE TEST

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HARLEY-DAVIDSON SOFTAIL SLIM S CYCLE TORQUE TEST

Harleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s militaryinspired Softail turns heads and goes like stink, all while giving the one-fingered salute cycletorque.com.au MARCH 2016 I 29

HARLEY-DAVIDSON SOFTAIL SLIM S

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CYCLE TORQUE TEST

Apocalypse how! N TEST BY DENNIS PENZO, PHOTOS BY NIGEL PATERSON N RIDING GEAR: BELL HELMET, ROLAND SANDS DESIGN JACKET, ROLAND SANDS DESIGN GLOVES, DRAGGIN NEXTGEN JEANS, FALCO BIKER BOOTS.

The flick of movement was imperceptible and I reached out to grab the fob midflight. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, the boss was saying, is to take this beast for a ride over the holiday break. And here I was stupidly thinking we’ve had a great year and the boss has lashed out on an expensive Christmas prezzie for me - no such luck. And that was my introduction to the 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S, in the all new military-inspired Olive Gold Denim. First things first. Check out the styling touches. Just about everything is blackedout - the engine cases, forks, exhaust, frame, airbox, footboards, brake levers, mirrors - even the headlight ring has gone to the dark side. There are hardly any shiny bits - but they all stand out. Look at the engine fins, oil lines, the chrome spokes, fuel and oil caps, the control arms and the ring around the speedo. Every little piece of chrome has its place. Looking at these minimalist details on the Softail Slim S is like watching Eric Clapton play guitar, it looks like not much is happening on the surface, but boy have you just been sucked in. Layla, you got me on my knees Layla. Your average sized, six-foot, 85kg bronzed Aussie is going to find the footboard to seat position a bit awkward because the low-slung solo seat tells you where to sit. If it doesn’t feel right, moving your butt will only make it worse. Despite its military inspired theme, it’s not gonna drop and give you twenty just to

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spite you. It’s a flannel wearing, Bruce Springsteen listening, middle finger raising piece of American-made iron. Having said that, not everyone who rides one of these babies is a big boofy solid person. At just over five foot and under 70kg I definitely do not fit into that body mould. So my impression of the seat is a far cry from that of my colleagues. By no means am I suggesting that my colleague Ryan has a fat arse. No, no, no, that wouldn’t be polite. But I loved the sitting position and the solo seat. It was snug and comfortable and that was after a nice long ride in the countryside, but more on that later. It’s not until further admiration of the air-cooled 45° V-Twin engine, you find out it’s not all bar fights, knuckledusters and court-martials. The Softail Slim S features an air-cooled, high output 110-cubic inch engine (1801cc) which Harley designers have named the ‘Screamin’ Eagle Twin Cam 110b’. Screamin’ Eagle is a more appropriate name for a sex position than an engine, but it’s bigger and more Continued on nexton page Continued next page

HARLEY-DAVIDSON SOFTAIL SLIM S

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CYCLE TORQUE TEST powerful than its 103-cubic inch (1690cc) counterpart. They say motion is more important than size, well guess what? The new Softail Slim S has both. Way to blur the lines H-D. Both engines rely on counterbalancing technology first used in the Twin Cam 88b engine developed for the Softail released over 15 years ago and has continued all the way into today’s Softail range. By using counterbalancing shafts, the engine can be mounted to the frame without the need for rubber mounts HarleyDavidson use in the Dyna and Touring ranges. Counterbalanced engines smooth out vibrations across the rev range but leave you with a satisfying amount of tingle. You still know you’re riding a H-D and anyone within four city blocks will know it at full noise. The length is the same, the seat height is the same, the ground clearance is the same, the rake, trail and wheelbase is the same, same tyres, same fuel and oil capacity, same primary drive, gear ratios, exhaust, wheels, brakes and it’s three kilos heavier.

you up quickly if you need them to. The front brake on the new model deliver a 40 percent reduction in the amount of lever force required at peak braking. The new electronic throttle control is smooth and adds to the minimalist dimensions of this machine. I’ve ridden plenty of Harleys with, and without, footboards. I don’t really have a preference either way. My feet are generally too small to use a heel-toe shift the way it was intended, but that doesn’t create any dramas for me. I’m often asked if footboards create ground clearance issues when you’re cranking through the countryside. Well, not really. I mean, unless you’re belting through the corners like you’re riding a hotted-up sportsbike then maybe you’ll have ground clearance issues. But that’s not what this style of bike in general is about, is it? Having said that, you will be surprised at how nimbly you can skip through corners and crank around some pretty tight bends without even a hint of scraping.

So how did a lightweight like me feel about blatting through the countryside on the big Slim’s 321kg platform?

Arriving at Wollombi the next real test was leaving it parked outside the pub and observing the reactions.

Bloody good actually. In more than 40 years of motorcycling and 10 years in motorcycle publishing testing a virtual smorgasbord of bikes I have ridden my fair share of Harleys.

The military colour scheme attracted a lot of comment, all of it good. Some suggesting that the paint scheme even had that old WLA look about it. A few souls recognised the model instantly as the 110cubic inch version, others had to look a little closer.

With such a low-slung seat the weight of the bike is not really something that comes into the equation. Anytime you need to get your feet planted on the ground, even a vertically challenged soul like myself, is not going to have a problem.

And speaking of that olde worlde impression the big Slim exudes, I also liked that horseshoe shaped oil tank. In my age group that styling cue speaks of bobbers and panheads and that 60s kind of feel. Very cool.

During the Christmas-New Year break my colleague Ryan and I went for a jaunt through the Hunter Valley, ending up at one of my favourite ride haunts, Wollombi pub, because that’s where I go to execute my “pub test.”

Back to the pub, as I said earlier, that venue attracts a lot of different bikes and people, and for one machine parked in a line-up alongside a myriad of others to attract the attention that it did was quite informative.

Now that’s a venue that attracts riders of all kinds of machinery from all over the place.

There was no shortage of people looking around for the rider and wanting to ask questions and sound out ride impressions, so it certainly passed my Wollombi Pub test. Now, I wonder if the boss will pay for the beers if I submit the receipts?

And from my home the route covers everything from motorway links to the utter crap that most Hunter Valley riders recognise as our road system as well as a nice variety of fast, open sweeping bends and nice tight country twisties. So the first test was how the bike handled the road conditions. The Slim was definitely in its element on the motorway and was also largely untroubled by the Hunter Valley’s country roads. The suspension is robust enough to tackle pretty well anything. The engine has gobs of low down grunt and quite good acceleration - it’s actually quite a crisp and responsive ride. And all this countered by a set of brakes that you know will pull

Your Slim also comes with the factory installed next-generation security system featuring the hands-free fob that automatically arms and disarms the bike’s electronic security functions as you approach and walk away from it. But then Harley-Davidson has made an art form out of building new models based on the heritage of their past. Your new Harley-Davidson Slim is going to set you back $28,995 for the base model. n

HARLEY-DAVIDSON SOFTAIL SLIM S CYCLE TORQUE TEST

SPECIFICATIONS: 2016 HARLEY-DAVIDSON SOFTAIL SLIM S ENGINE TYPE: Screamin’ Eagle Air-Cooled, Twin Cam 110B CAPACITY: 1802cc TRANSMISSION: 6 speed chain driven FUEL CAPACITY: 18.9 litres FRAME TYPE: Steel cradle SEAT HEIGHT: 650mm WET WEIGHT: 321kg FRONT SUSPENSION: Non-adjustable telescopic forks REAR SUSPENSION: Hidden rear shocks BRAKES: 300mm 4-Piston front and 2-piston rear (ABS) TYRES: Dunlop MT90B16 72H front, MU85B16 77H rear PRICE (RRP): $28,995 ride away

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HARLEY-DAVIDSON SOFTAIL SLIM S CYCLE TORQUE TEST

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HARLEY-DAVIDSON SOFTAIL SLIM S CYCLE TORQUE TEST

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HARLEY-DAVIDSON SOFTAIL SLIM S CYCLE TORQUE TEST

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CYCLE TORQUE TEST

Bold move N TEST & PHOTOS BY MATT O’CONNELL N SPIDI DARKNIGHT JACKET, SARTSO JEANS, SHARK RAW HELMET

Compared to it’s California brethren, the Audace has a more understated, sleek feel about it. The entire California range dominates the streetscape wherever they are and the Audace, dressed in matte black, is 300kg of pure lean muscle mass. In true Euro fashion, riding this bike around Sydney I was copping stares (not glances) nearly everywhere I went. I guess it comes with the territory (and I love it). I just had to act like I actually owned it. The drag handlebars, black mirrors and cut off exhaust all add to the aggressive feel of the Audace...it certainly has the ‘dark rider’ thing going on. There are a number of standout features, but the way the engine is coupled with the transmission in one straight line is what sets the bike off for me. The six speed shaft drive really adds to that purposeful, ‘built like a tank’ feel. Funny how that took my eye first...because for most people I guess it would be the two monster cylinder heads that stick out, underlining its muscle credentials. The Audace is powered by a thumping 1380cc 90 degree V-Twin, and when you start the engine the first thing you notice is the way the chassis rocks from side to side at idle. Speaking of the engine - full torque is 121 Nm which tops out at 3000rpm while the max power of just under 100hp kicks in at 6500rpm.

On the Street Sitting astride the Audace it feels rock solid...but get that throttle twisting and the torque reminded me yet again why I choose two wheels over four. It goes how it looks - hard and smooth. The forward position of the foot pegs make it just right for straight line fun...and the 1380cc engine has this authoritative roar at full revs. At idle I want a real gutsy sound in a twin - so I would consider fitting aftermarket exhausts to give it more presence. Twist the throttle though and you feel the torque - this is why you ride, to experience 300kg of bike underneath you being propelled by an engine the size of most small cars. One of the surprises was the ease of handling at low speeds - which reinforced Continued on next page

MOTO GUZZI AUDACE

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CYCLE TORQUE TEST what I was thinking about the overall engineering of this bike even after the first few minutes. It feels like such a well thought out machine. Every design feature seems deliberate - it’s big and brutal but smooth all at once. The overall build quality is head turning, and often it is the European brands that have to work extra hard to impress in this area. Moto Guzzi is an exotic brand so naturally, expectations are high - but the Audace delivers. Touches like the carbon fibre front guard add to the stealthy look. Twin 320mm discs with 4 spot Brembo calipers up front combine with a 282mm disc (fitted with 2 parallel pistons) on the rear. The latter performs really well when you push it hard - but of course when you have 300kg to stop, there isn’t going to be huge initial bite, even in the front. Start squeezing though and the big Brembos show impressive power - with the electronics they can really pull the big beast up quickly. In heavy traffic I was impressed by how cool the engine was keeping. Even considering it was mid summer I didn’t have any uncomfortable moments with heat. It’s a heavy machine to be wielding in city traffic, but the street cred when you park it up makes it worth it. But really, the open road is where this bike belongs.

On the open road I took to some tasty (and bumpy!) sections of apshalt through NSW Hunter Valley wine country and once again, the engineering of this bike shone through. The power and torque range is well matched to the open road and for a minimalist styled bike, the Audace packs a big brain. The throttle is ‘ride by wire’ and brakes come standard with ABS. Traction control is fitted but the only time I had it step out of line was in the wet. It was predictable and easy to control, to be honest I have no idea if the traction control kicked in or not. I’ve used the same system (Moto Guzzi Controllo di Trazione - it even sounds safe) fitted on sportier bikes, so I know it is effective. Being shaft drive you might not expect it to be totally smooth...but it was. I love the feel from a shaft drive bike - nice direct power to the road. When I had a pillion on the back one of the first comments was how smooth

the transmission felt. But...it’s always as smooth as you want it to be. You can really hook in and make the bike work hard and it still feels like there’s more to give. There is some real character in this bike - like you are not riding something generic that rolled off the production line. Which is one of the reasons why you buy a European bike, right? Suspension wise, the Audace is fitted with 45mm forks up front. On the rear you will find twin shocks adjustable for rebound and preload. These provide a smooth consistent ride, which shows you don’t need whiz bang adjustability when the right components are used. The Audace loves the bends as much as it loves showing off in a straight line cornering performance is way better than what you would expect from such a large bike. The balance between front and rear seems to let the bike track around corners very comfortably. I’d go so far as to say it’s a bit of a sleeper in the handling department. I’m sure everyone will be interested in ground clearance and the best way to answer that is in the initial description - it’s somewhere between street bike and cruiser. By the time you scrape it out, you will have a decent lean angle happening.

The Verdict The Audace is a refined piece of modern muscle engineering but it retains the famed Guzzi passion and character. The build quality is stunning and there is a real coherency to the design. Having said all that, I think any bike this size has to be handled with purpose, especially on the ground. It is physically imposing, but the reward is you feel like not just anyone could jump on and handle this bike. You’re in command of a beast of a machine that makes you feel like you’ve earned your spot riding it. The pictures don’t lie - the Audace is the kind of machine you would want to be seen on around town, and Moto Guzzi have backed the looks up with outstanding engineering. n Continued on next page

MOTO GUZZI AUDACE CYCLE TORQUE TEST

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SPECIFICATIONS: 2016 MOTO GUZZI AUDACE ENGINE TYPE: 90째 V-Twin Engine, 4 Stroke, SOHC 4 Valves Per Cylinder CAPACITY: 1380cc TRANSMISSION: 6 Speed FUEL CAPACITY: 20.5 litres FRAME TYPE: Steel Tubing, Closed Double Cradle with ElasticKinematic Engine Mounting System to isolate vibrations SEAT HEIGHT: 740mm (720 mm Opt.) WET WEIGHT: 299kg No Fuel FRONT SUSPENSION: 45mm Forks, Hydraulic Damping REAR SUSPENSION: Swingarm with Twin Shocks, Adjustable Rebound and Spring Preload with Remote Reservoir BRAKES: Dual 320mm Stainless Steel Floating Discs, Brembo 4 Spot Radial Mounted Calipers. 282mm Stainless Steel Fixed Disc, Brembo Floating Caliper With 2 Parallel Pistons TYRES: F: 130/70-18, R: 200/60-16 PRICE (RRP): $23,500 Ride Away

MOTO GUZZI AUDACE CYCLE TORQUE TEST

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YMA9769_R3 Next Level_FP_2016_CT_curves.indd 1

5/02/2016 3:39 pm

2016 YAMAHA YZ250F

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CYCLE TORQUE TEST

Refined THUMPER

2016 YAMAHA YZ250F CYCLE TORQUE TEST

Yamaha’s YZ250F has been the bike to beat for ages, and that’s not going to change in 2016… cycletorque.com.au MARCH 2016 I 48

2016 YAMAHA YZ250F

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CYCLE TORQUE TEST

Refined thumper N TEST BY TODD REED, PHOTOS BY iKAPTURE & YAMAHA N RIDING GEAR: BELL HELMET, BOOTS, PANTS JERSEY ALPINESTARS

The success of the current generation YZ250F is undeniable. In the short two year period since its redevelopment, we have seen the small bore YZ’s popularity soar to levels only matched when the model was first introduced in 2001. On the track the success story is much the same, Yamaha has wrapped up some of the most prestigious 250cc championships around the globe, including 2 straight AMA Motocross Championships at the hands of Jeremy Martin, and two straight Australian Motocross Championships from Luke Clout in 2014, and Jay Wilson in 2015. In case you’re still not convinced, check out the grid at your local motocross track, and be prepared to see a whole lot of blue.

Further Refined The 2016 YZ250F is a very refined package. There’s nothing new and ground breaking to be found, instead, it’s the small changes which add up to a noticeable improvement when compared to last year’s model. At least that’s what Yamaha is saying in its press releases. Yamaha’s development team focused on four main areas to work on the for 2016 model, improving the stopping power, improving the suspension feel, improving the mid-high rpm power and enhancing the overall ‘rideability’ of the engine. To give Yamaha riders more braking power, Yamaha added a 270mm disc to the front end, this replaced the old 240mm unit. The new disc is 30mm larger in diameter which greatly increases the power and feel of the front brake. Very

similar units have been available in aftermarket form for some time now, so it’s great to see Yamaha step up and offer this as a standard spec item. The front brake pad material has also been changed to further improve feel and power. After taking feedback from racers around the world the Yamaha development team carefully worked on the KYB Suspension, with the aim being to improve feel by trying to remove the sudden kick or jolt that some people often commented on with the 2015 model. The suspension remains the same in overall design, no air forks here, it’s only the internal valving which has been ‘massaged’, if you will. Continued on next page

2016 YAMAHA YZ250F

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CYCLE TORQUE TEST

The engine refinements begin with a new piston and conrod design. The piston has re-designed rib supports on the underside and the crown has been shaved back, removing 18 grams of piston weight. The conrod benefits from an improved heat treatment process which increases durability and the piston cooler sprayer has been redesigned to help lower the running temperatures of the YZ250F. Together, with EFI fuelling changes, these modifications mean more mid-high RPM power for the small bore Yamaha. Improving rideability is a tricky, delicate process. Yamaha Engineers, very smartly, took on the job of improving the balance within the YZ250F engine. Additional crankshaft counterweights have been added and a redesigned balancer shaft is fitted to help to reduce vibration, and give stronger, smoother power to the high revving YZF. Improvements in the manufacturing process, give the clutch boss a more accurate and efficient operation, while a new shifting mechanism offers more accurate gear shifts while the engine is under load. Moving beyond the four key areas of improvement for the YZ250F, the only remaining changes are some bold new graphics which give the Yamaha a cool new look, and if you’re after something different, the YZ also comes in 60th anniversary yellow.

On The Track The YZ250F is an impressive bike on the track. Moments after take-off you will quickly notice how lively and responsive the reverse fed, fuel injected engine is. Off the bottom the YZ is strong and things quickly transition into a punchy midrange. This is where the YZ shines, putting power to the ground, coming out of turns and propelling you onto the next obstacle ahead. If the RPM’s drop off, a quick flick of the clutch will get most riders out of trouble and get you back into that meaty power hit. Changes when compared to the previous model, are

noticeable as the RPM’s climb beyond the mid-range. The YZ now feels more “revved up” as you climb towards full throttle. It’s small things that can add up, and it looks like Yamaha got it right with the 2016 engine. The new brakes work exactly as they should, with the 270mm front rotor adding the power and feel that the Yamaha has been lacking for a few years now. The KYB suspension may seem a bit dated when compared to the air fork craze that appears to be going on with some of the other OEMs. But when it comes to on track performance the twin chamber, mechanical spring forks work wonders. Again, the small things add up, with the 2016 fork and shock feeling a little more compliant than in years gone by. Lighter riders may feel the setup is a little bit stiff, but from our experience on the day of our test, a few clicks on the suspension can provide exactly the change you might be looking for. The agility and turning capability of the Yamaha is certainly improved with the suspension changes Yamaha have made. The YZ is now more settled through turns and under brakes, with improved traction making it easier to feel what the bike is doing underneath you.

Verdict It’s a bit cliche to say, but when you ride the YZ250F its has a very refined and perfected feeling to it, just like Yamaha say in their brochures. The Yamaha does everything very well on the track, and in standard form it’s surprising how capable the small bore thumper really is. If you’re looking to change brands, the YZ250F is certainly a contender for the best 250 four stroke out there with all the features you’ll be looking for. It’s ready to go straight off the showroom floor and won’t need thousands of hard earned dollars spent to get it up to race spec. If you’re just looking to update from your old YZ250F, don’t be shy, as the 2016 is a cut above the previous model and will be a sure thing to impress you. n

2016 YAMAHA YZ250F

WET WEIGHT: 105KG FRAME TYPE: BILATERAL BEAM

CYCLE TORQUE TEST

PRICE (RRP): $10,999 (BLUE) $11,199 (60TH ANNIVERSARY YELLOW) FUEL CAPACITY: 7.5 LITRES

WWW.CYCLETORQUE.COM.AU

SEAT HEIGHT: 965MM

FRONT SUSPENSION: TELESCOPIC FORK, 310MM TRAVEL REAR SUSPENSION: SWINGARM (LINK SUSPENSION), 315MM TRAVEL

FRONT TYRE: 80/100-21 MS32

REAR TYRE: 100/90-19 MS32

FRONT BRAKES: HYDRAULIC 270MM SINGLE DISC

ENGINE TYPE: LIQUID-COOLED, 4-STROKE, DOHC, 4-VALVES CAPACITY: 250CC

TRANSMISSION: CONSTANT MESH 5-SPEED, CHAIN DRIVE

REAR BRAKES: HYDRAULIC SINGLE DISC

2016 YAMAHA YZ250F CYCLE TORQUE TEST

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2016 YAMAHA YZ250F CYCLE TORQUE TEST

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KAWASAKI NINJA ZX-10R WITH RACE KIT

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CYCLE TORQUE TEST

Track focussed, race-ready THE NEW Ninja ZX-10R is a pretty incredible bike – Chris Pickett tested it for the December issue of Cycle Torque which you can still download from www.cycletorque.com. au - but for a little more money you can make it a whole lot better.

WATCH VIDEO NOW

For series four of Cycle Torque’s TV show, Kawasaki flew me to Malaysia for the world launch of the Ninja ZX-10R, where I got to ride the standard bike, the standard bike without ABS and with slick tyres and the Winter Edition, a limited edition model Kawasaki had also equipped with some of the race kit parts - wiring loom, race ECU and full Akrapovic race exhaust system and slicks. Kawasaki isn’t claiming any extra power and the weight is down about 7kg and they’d also removed the mirrors, stand etc), which is all good, but the improvement belied the changes. It was so much better around Sepang I really didn’t want to pull in at the end of my session on the bike. The Japanese technicians waiting for me to return really didn’t get it when I said, “Box it up, I’ll take it”. I haven’t said that about an open-class sportsbike in years: with slow Pickett (Chris) on staff and fast Pickett (Alex) contributing, I never seemed to score the track test gigs… but Alex has moved to the UK to further his career and Chris was racing at the Island Classic, so I dusted off the racing suit and packed my bags for Malaysia.

The Big Difference The first really noticeable change to the bike is the quickshifter - standard the quickshifter only works going up, whereas on the racebike it also works going down, and combined with the slipper clutch and massive Brembo brakes you can charge into turns, bang down on the gearshift, pick your line and drive hard really early with total confidence the traction control will prevent too much wheelspin on the way out. Adding slicks made the steering more precise and increased traction, which in turn increased confidence. The changes allowed me to concentrate on my lines, my throttle control and position on the bike rather than the clutch and gearbox, and I was a heap smoother into turns, which made me faster with less effort. It didn’t hurt that the new Ninja ZX-10R drives out of corners incredibly well, a combination of the new Balance-Free Forks and shock and seamless traction Continued on next page

KAWASAKI NINJA ZX-10R WITH RACE KIT

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CYCLE TORQUE TEST control making getting from one corner to the next smooth and very fast indeed. This translates into less fatigue, although of course you’ll replace that with more speed and get tired anyway, but your lap times will be better.

The sound of speed A combination of raucous Akrapovic race kit exhaust system and the race ECU give the bike a sound to behold. If it sounds great howling down the straights… well it sounds even better when you close the throttle and the cackle from the system announces to the world you’re on a race bike…

Comparing the stocker Sometimes I wonder if letting journalists loose on up-specced machines is a good idea - after three sessions on the road version of the new Ninja ZX-10R, I was thinking about how good it is - but after riding the race kit equipped Winter Edition… really, if you’re going to ride your bike at a track, you really want to consider getting these components - they make a good bike awesome.

Modern bikes are more fun I raced motorcycles many years ago now… and I’ve managed to get a dose of tracktime regularly since, either at ride days and since then as part of the job. But circumstances meant I haven’t had much track time in the last few years and I honestly didn’t realise how much I missed riding a fast bike on a track as fast as I could… it really is a blast, especially on modern machinery. While the older I get the faster I was, the fact is fast bikes and race tracks can be pretty intimidating, especially when things start to go south… I remember almost highsiding a CBR1000RR Fireblade at Phillip Island a few years back in the days before traction control, the slide throwing me up out of the seat but luckily I managed to save it. That was probably a 165hp machine - the new Ninja is 210 with ram-air. Traction control really changes the game. I’m not saying you can’t highside a bike with good traction control, but it sure is less likely to happen - that makes big bikes more fun again. The 2016 Ninja ZX-10R is great fun on the track, but when you add those race kit parts, it becomes something better again, something which rewards you for riding hard, repaying that investment Continued on next page

KAWASAKI NINJA ZX-10R WITH RACE KIT CYCLE TORQUE TEST you made in the bike, the tyres, the parts, the fuel… with an experience you can’t get anywhere else – high speeds, real danger, incredible lean angles… and you’re in control, riding as hard as you can but in a controlled environment. I didn’t quite realise how much I’d missed those track rides, so I think I’ll have to organise more.

Race Kit parts used: Race Kit ECU: This lets you adjust fuel and ignition maps, separates the adjustment of the traction control and wheelie control, allows the Engine Brake Control to be adjusted for each individual gear and gives downshift quickshift. Must be used with the racing electrical harness. Offset steering collars: These allow the steering stem position to be moved +/-4mm forward/backward, while other collar enables the caster angle to be changed, all to make the bike steer the way the rider wants. Offset Swingarm collars change the position of the swingarm pivot, which effects drive, especially out of turns. ABS dongle (Not needed if race ECU fitted): If you buy the ABS version this dongle can either turn off the Kawasaki Integrated Braking System or just turn it off at the rear. Many markets are only getting the ABS version: Australia is getting ABS and non-ABS, but most non-ABS bikes have already been pre-sold to race teams. Race Kit engine parts: alternate head gaskets, oil catch tank, chain tensioner, various con-rod and crank journal bearings, clutch, gears and engine cover gaskets. Race Kit Chassis Parts: chain guard, fork springs, rear ride height adjusters and race wiring harness. n

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CYCLE TORQUE GEAR

Bike Stuff 1

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cycletorqueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2016

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1 OXFORD tank bags feature a universal Quick Release (QR) mechanism. Your phone, wallet, tablet, maps and valuables under your safe watch, and reachable without having to get off your bike. The user friendly One-Touch lock-on system securely attaches the bag in place with a special fuel tank ring which replaces the stock ring. The One-Touch release mechanism easily clicks off with one swipe of the thumb. Bags come in 4L, 15L, 20L and 30L to fit most bikes. Bags feature waterproof zips, rip-stop nylon, the larger bags come with carry straps, backpack straps and a roll top waterproof internal bag that ensures items remain dry. A handy see-through top section on the tank bags is ideal for a map, or even iPad, visible and safe from elements. Tank rings for most models are $29.95. Price: From $169.95 Get them from: Good bike shops More info: www.ficeda.com.au

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MotoGuide 2016

3 BROUGHT to you by the crew who produce Cycle Torque and Australian Historic Racer, MotoGuide features a smorgasbord of 2016 model bike tests, road and offroad, news on whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coming for 2016 and a huge price check of 2016 bikes. In newsagents or through www.motobooks.com.au Price: $7.50 incl postage Get them from: Newsagents or Cycle Torque More info: www.motobooks.com.au

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Flexi Rail holds it

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1 DNA now has an air filter to suit your HarleyDavidson Street 500. Featuring DNA’s advanced Full Contour Design it also has a laser cut supporting frame. The DNA’s airflow is a 196% boost on Harley’s standard filter. Let your beast breathe! Price: $129 Get them from: Good motorcycle shops More info: www.kenma.com.au

2 This transport tie-down point rail system from Acebikes makes securing your motorcycle safer and easier than ever, minimising damage risk to your bike. Ideal for tray back ute, normal ute, a van, box trailer or enclosed trailer Fitting the Flexi Rail set is easy – simply drill and bolt down using supplied hardware. Each rail holds up to 250kg. The rails come with top quality carabineers and fitters to position your tie-down point in any of the eight slots along the rail. Made from high quality galvanized steel, preventing rust, are sold in pairs and are a perfect match for the Acebikes TyreFix strapping system. Price: $115. Get them from: Ask your local bike shop More info: (07) 3277 0693

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3 Using soft ties and two tie-downs to secure the rear of a bike you are transporting can be tricky without causing damage to the bike. The Acebikes TyreFix can help resolve that problem by securing the motorcycle via the rear tyre. The TyreFix is suitable for most commonly used motorcycle tyres. Special friction material on the inside of the case prevent slippage. The TyreFix is made from strong durable material and the included tie-downs are high quality ratchet type. The TyreFix comes with a handy carry case and is a great match for the Acebikes Flexi Rail system. Price: $139.95 Get them from: Ask your bike shop More info: (07) 3277 0693

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Used & Reviewed Saigon Summer

Most of the time I was on the bike in Vietnam, I was riding pretty seriously to get ahead of the group. I had to take photos and videos as the group passed, get back on the bike and ride flat stick to catch up again. All of this was being done in 30 degree heat mind you and without time to take gear on and off. I wore the MotoDry Summer jacket throughout my entire trip and I can honestly say it was the perfect choice. The jacket features CE approved shoulder and elbow armour, as well as a high-density foam back protector which are all removable. The best thing about the jacket was how efficiently it worked in keeping me cool on the bike. I had to run around like a chook with its head cut off getting footage under the beating sun with the MotoDry Summer jacket on, and it got hot and sweaty fast. As soon as I was on the bike, wind passed through the cool ‘airflow’ safety mesh and provided instant comfort. That comfort allowed me to focus on catching up to the group rather than think about how uncomfortable I was. The zips on the wrists make a difference yet again to improve airflow. The MotoDry Summer jacket comes with a waterproof liner which is easy to attach - there are big buttons and elastic loops which means it isn’t a fiddly operation. It depends what pants you wear with it but the liner does a good job of keeping rain out. What I put the jacket through in Vietnam was pretty extreme and it met the demands I placed on it comfortably. I reckon this will be perfectly suited for Australia too. – Ryan Grubb Price: $199.95 Get them from: Better bike shops More info: http://www. motonational.com.au/clothing/ summer-jackets

British Bombshells

JEREMY Clarkson, is, according to his mate and co-presenter James May on the ridiculously successful motoring show Top Gear, “A bit of a Dick”. So while Top Gear might not be often about motorcycles - although the crew’s ride up the Vietnam coast on scooters is legendary - I was keen to have a look at the book which exposes the inside running of the show, And on That Bombshell, by the show’s script editor Richard Porter. It’s an easy, funny read about the show and it’s irrepressible presenters and crew, about the things they got up to, the places they went and the gradual success of the show from it’s rebirth with Clarkson at the helm to the BBC’s sacking of the man for punching out a crew member. If you’ve ever wanted to know what goes on to make a TV show or magazine, you’ll get a pretty good insight here - it’s not all beer and skittles, it’s not all prancing about driving or riding the latest and greatest… there’s work to be done and Porter tells it pretty well. While its motorcycle content isn’t super high, I think if you’ve read this far about And on This Bombshell, you’ll enjoy the read. – Nigel Paterson Price: $32.99. Available: Cycle Torque bookstore More info: www.motobooks.com.au

USA BIKE SHIPPING 2008 USA BIKE SHIPPING

Loading bikes ex Melbourne, ex Sydney & ex Brisbane mid June 2008 for arrival in the USA early mid July. Designed Loading bikes ex toMelbourne, exforSydney & ex Brisbane mid May 2016 for arrival in the those who want to be at Milwaukee for the HD year July. celebrations and theshipment new USA early to105 mid Return will be loaded mid to late September allowing museum opening and for the Sturgis Rally. Return shipment will be loaded mid to for anlate 8September to 10 week Some earlier return shipments are possible. allowingtouring for an 8 toholiday. 10 week touring holiday. Some earlier return shipments are possible.

2008 USA BIKE SHIPPING Loading bikes ex Melbourne, ex Sydney & ex Brisbane Phone mid June for arrival (03)2008 9331 0947 in the USAEmail: early to mid July. Designed dave@getrouted.com.aufor those who want to&be at Milwaukee (Office home 9am - 9pm)for the HD 105 year celebrations and the new www.getrouted.com.au museum opening and for the Sturgis Rally. Return shipment(ABN will98be055 loaded mid to 447 869) Motorcycle Shippers UK10 late September allowing for toanNZ8&to Isle of Man TT Tour specialists week touring holiday. Some earlier return shipments are possible.

Phone (03) 9331 0947 Email: dave@getrouted.com.au (Office & home 9am - 9pm)

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Book Shop

CYCLE TORQUE STORE

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1. The Classic Bike Workshop – $21

Following on from the success of his first two novels, Peter J. Uren has continued with the story of the old mechanic, who quickly realises that retirement is not all it is cracked up to be. In this, his third novel, the main character returns to help out his son-in-law, while one of the mechanics’ plans come to a crashing halt.

2. The Old Mechanic – $17.00

The story of an old motorcycle mechanic who takes on an apprentice and, together, they restore a 1959 Norton 500cc ES2 motorcycle. The book takes the reader right through the process of restoring an old British classic motorcycle, from rebuilding the engine through to getting the bike on the road.

3. Motorcycle Dream Garages – $29.99

Motorcycle Dream Garages opens the doors to sixteen motorcycle palaces, among them a secret one in Chicago housing over one hundred rare bikes; a converted garage dedicated to Vincents in St. Paul; and a sampling of luxury motorcycle garages owned by racers and celebrities, such as Jay Leno.

4. Round Oz Ride – $70

Kog and his son James set off to ride around Australia in 40 days in search of the meaning of life or at least some answers to the big questions of life... well ok... to just have fun. 17,750kms in 40 days

5. Hell On Wheels – $39.99

A gripping history of outlaw motorcycle club culture from its beginnings to the present day. In a world where most of us roll over when confronted by the power of authority, the antihero figure of the outlaw biker stands beyond the crowd, a beacon of social freedom. By choosing to live outside of society’s conventions, the one-percenter has the inner strength to act on his own convictions.

6. The Brotherhoods – $22.99

Bikies consider themselves ‘the last free people in society’; unrestricted by the laws that rule ordinary citizens. Yet they have strict joining rules and jealously guard their privacy. The twenty-first century has seen bikie culture move from secretive disorganised crime to far more threatening organised criminal activities that led to the death of a Hells Angel’s associate at Sydney airport in 2009, and the gang-style killings that preceded it.

7. The Art Of Ducati – $75.00

Celebrate more than 60 years of Italian motorcycle mastery. Over 60 years ago in Bologna, Italy, a small company called Ducati began manufacturing simple, inexpensive 50cc motorcycles--really no more than two-stroke-powered bicycles. Since then, Ducati has evolved into one of the most storied names in the motorcycling world, its lineup of beautiful machines revered for their technical excellence and extreme performance.

8. Art Of The Harley Davidson Cycles – $75.00

See David Blattel’s stunning Harley-Davidson portraiture as never before in this deluxe edition. Photographer David Blattel treats every photo shoot as a work of art. When his subjects are the works of art produced by the motorcycling maestros from Milwaukee, the results are doubly beautiful. Art of the Harley-Davidson Motorcycle pulls together the best of Blattel’s Harley-Davidson portraiture--over 100 stunning machines--resulting in a breathtaking review of HarleyDavidson’s greatest hits from the early 1900s to today.

9. The One Percenter Encyclopedia – $39.99

Ever wonder how the Hells Angels got their name? Ever wonder about that little demonic critter on the Pagan’s patch? Ever wonder about the local one-percenter motorcycle club that hangs out at the corner bar? The One-Percenter Encyclopedia answers these questions and many more. Featuring concise entries that include information on founding chapters, founding dates, number of chapters, number of members, and club biography, this book covers all the major clubs—Hells Angels, Outlaws, Pagans, Mongols, Vagos—as well as lesser-known clubs from around the world.

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

Book Shop

CYCLE TORQUE STORE

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10. Italian Custom Motorcycles – $39.99

Many books have been published about Italian motorcycles, but none has focused exclusively on the Italian motorcycle-based chopper, bobber, trike, and quad custom bike scene – until now.

11. McQueen’s Machines – $24.99

No other Hollywood star has been so closely linked with cars and bikes, from the 1968 Ford Mustang GT Fastback he drove in Bullitt (in the greatest car chase of all time) to the Triumph motorcycle of The Great Escape. McQueen’s Machines gives readers a close-up look at the cars and motorcycles McQueen drove in movies, those he owned, and others he raced. With a foreword by Steve’s son, Chad McQueen, and a wealth of details about the star’s racing career, stunt work, and car and motorcycle

12. Dreamracer – $24.95

For the first time in a feature length film, Dream Racer shows the legendary Dakar Rally in its purest form – no sponsors, no multi-million dollar team, not even a mechanic – just one rider, a motorbike, a film maker and the world’s most dangerous motor race. Far more than just a motorbike movie, Dream Racer is a call to arms for anyone who has ever dreamt of doing anything – a spine tingling antidote to the fear of life passing you by unfulfilled.

13. BMW Custom Motorcycles – $39.99

Many books have been published about BMW motorcycles, but no-one has focussed solely on the BMW chopper, bobber, trike and quad bike custom scene - until now. Although not normally associated with the brand, there are some fantastic BMW customs out there, old and new; this book showcases them in all their innovative glory.

14. 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.

15. 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.

16. Don Cox Circus Life - Signed – $99.00

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 unAustralian to push your own barrow.

17. Weekend Warriors 1 & 2 – $44.95

About five years ago Shaun, Andy and I (Jake) started to run out of places to ride. We were sick of riding the same places time and time again so we decided to pay a visit to the Melbourne Map Centre in Chadstone to see if there was a guide book on the subject. Much to our surprise there was nothing to be found. Sure there were heaps of 4WD and Mountain Bike books but, alas, no trail bike books. The guys in the shop were also surprised, as they had had a lot of enquiries from other trail bike riders. This gave us an idea - why not write our own book? And that is exactly what we did!

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

TORQUING BACK

Letters F700 Fan

I have just purchased a new F700GS, yes I looked at the F800R but the GS was the best for my old school upright riding preferences. Black, with red chassis. The biggest issue I have had is when fuelling, adjacent motorists and bikers want to delay me, find out about the bike, all the features, ‘oow’ and ‘aah’ over the paintwork. They want to know the performance, fuel economy, and what it’s like to ride. I’ve had a lot of bikes in my time, but never experienced such interest. The one thing all admirers seem to know is that it’s a great all round bike and easy to ride. I’m currently averaging over 500km per week, it’s just so enjoyable. Like the 800R, the torque and performance shine over 6000rpm, and the 700 is only 75hp. I cannot believe how good this bike is... Darryl, Townsville

Motorbike Heaven

I just returned from a seven-day tour of Tassie on my Moto Guzzi California with a few good friends. Every day was an absolute treat. The roads were almost all in good condition. There is ample opportunity to test the bike on corners - from tight twisties up and down mountains, through to series of long sweepers winding through beautiful open country. We made a point of finding top coffee spots, as well great places to eat at the end of exhilarating days on the bike. The Rockwall in Hobart was a highlight! This is where bikers must go to heaven when they die. The Guzzi performed flawlessly, pulling up hills effortlessly, passing quickly with confidence, and making many miles pass without noticing the time at all. If you’ve never toured Tassie, give it a go, and even better, do it on a bike. Paul Grace

cycletorque.com.au MARCH 2016 I 68

Paul, I have just returned from 18-days in Vietnam, most of those were spent riding along the Ho Chi Minh Trail and I feel exactly the same way about Vietnam as you do Tassie. I reckon wherever you are in the world, touring on a motorcycle is the best way to see things. The people become nicer, the roads always seem to spiral to the heavens and back, you never have a bad coffee and the food is always great. – RG

Objectification or not?

Love the show, love the magazine, LOVE bikes. What I don’t love though is the ad for the motorcycle wreckers at Silverwater, on page 48 of the Dec 2015 issue that features a scantily clad woman lying on top of another scantily clad woman. Is this the dark ages? How out of touch are they? Are they in the business of bikes or objectifying women? In my opinion you shouldn’t be wasting ink on an ad like that. Lots of women ride bikes and for us it’s all about the bike, the excitement and adrenaline rush of the ride and the camaraderie with other riders; not about whatever the point of that picture was. Thanks, Kate I will also take this chance to open up the conversation to our readers. Take a look at the Metro Spares ad on the page after letters of the issue and tell us what you think? RG Hi Kate, You have touched on an interesting topic (hence the longer reply)! You are spot on about bikes, the excitement and adrenaline rush of the ride and the camaraderie with other riders. I’ve ridden in groups with men and women Continued on next page

Write a Letter! WIN A GREAT PRIZE This month Kate 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

TAP TO SEND LETTER NOW

TORQUING BACK

Letters together and I think just about all of us share those feelings.

In regards to the ad you mention, the artwork is what that advertiser wants. We are a bit different being a free magazine, we completely rely on the support from all of our advertisers and it puts us in a delicate position. To keep the magazine free, we need every single ad. This means our editorial policy works a bit differently - if an advertiser wants access to our audience, we charge them a fee and they can either provide us with an ad, or we can design one for them. If they want their ad to look a certain way, we aren’t going to tell them otherwise. Ultimately, we think they know their business better than we do. We do understand that not everybody is going to agree with the content in some instances like this one, but we also think your dollar can decide that better than us too. The point of the ad in question is ‘turning crash into treasure’. Whether it’s a case of female objectification or not depends too much on subjectivity. At the time you wrote this letter I remember seeing Miranda Kerr on the cover of a Harper’s Bazar in nothing but a pair of high heels. A picture like that was considered arty because of a number of factors - the magazine is considered bourgeois, it is Miranda Kerr, the lighting is softer, the pose is different and the location is picturesque. I would argue you are objectively looking at the same thing. Perhaps that is why Wesfarmers did remove this magazine from Coles’ shelves, so your point is fair. It was too risqué for their display stands, but don’t forget - Wesfarmers owns K-Mart and Target, both places where one could still presumably pick up a copy. It is too subjective. Whenever a woman is depicted in the industrial world of

cycletorque.com.au MARCH 2016 I 69

motorcycles dressed in anything less than full leathers, I think it’s more a case of motorcycle magazines not getting a fair trial. RG

YMF aren’t rich bankers!

Referencing your Cycle Torque Feature “Get any bike for $100 per week”, your final line got my attention: “Do you really want to make bankers rich?” We’d like to use that as a slogan! But I think you’re referring to us as well, and that means we haven’t been communicating to you very well. Yamaha Motor Finance (YMF), and our sister company Australian Motorcycle Finance (AMF) are not banks. In fact YMF is the only motorcycle finance company in Australia that’s actually factory owned – not a white labelled product from a bank/finance company that’s just in it for the money. We’re industry owned specialists, and unlike our rich banker cousins, put hundreds of thousands of dollars a year back into motorcycling. We sponsor road, MX and offroad teams and we put money into ASBK and MX Nationals (and this year World Superbikes!). We also support Racesafe for track safety and Stay Upright for road safety and the Y-AIM Australian Institute of Motocross for junior development. We have specialised representation in every state, and our support team in Sydney only do motorcycle and marine finance. Not cars and caravans and whatever else comes across their desk next. I loved your article - Any way to get people onto bikes works for us. But please don’t lump all us financiers together. We’re there as another alternative to making bankers rich(er). Brad Ryan General Manager Yamaha Motor Finance Australia & New Zealand

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

TAP TO SEND LETTER NOW

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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.

––– 51 –––

Contents

AUSTRALIAN HISTORIC RACER 18

SNAPSHOT IN TIME

IN THE PITS

2016 ISLAND CLASSIC PREVIEW

RACING TECH

2016 BSFOS PREVIEW

EDITORIAL

RYE DUCATI

Chris Pickett

ADVERTISING

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

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

ACCOUNTS

Rebecca Eastment bec@cycletorque.com.au

PUBLISHER

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

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.

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

THE SQUEAKY WHEEL TOM PHILLIS

BOOK SHOP

RACING GEAR

SEELEY COMMANDO

HONDA CB500/4

HONDA V4

1976 AUSTRALIAN TT

DENNIS NEILL TRIBUTE

2015 BSFOS WRAP UP

2015 ISLAND CLASSIC REVIEW

CLASSIC TT 2015

ON ANY RACEDAY

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.

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

AHR PICTORIA

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

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 –––

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26 30

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.

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

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

Australian Historic

Historic Racer Australian

ALSO AVAILABLE AT NEWSAGENTS

CREDITS

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