WELCOME
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May 2015 Welcome to the May 2015 issue of Cycle Torque. We hope you’ve enjoyed the new Cycle Torque style, we think it looks great. On the cover you’ll find the new BMW R 1200 R. It’s the first naked boxer to use the new liquid-cooled flat twin cylinder engine, and it’s a fantastic performer as a result. We ride plenty of other bikes too, like the Yamaha MT-09 Tracer. Yamaha’s modular design ethos with its MT-09 range is working very well indeed. Suzuki has also finally got its four-stroke 450cc enduro bike some ADR compliance. It’s a beauty. Then there’s a couple of enterprising souls riding Enfield Bullets across Myanmar, the go to man behind the Long Ride and much more.
INSTRUCTIONS
Lastly, the second series of Cycle Torque TV has finished but you can catch every episode of this, and series one too, on our youtube channel at www. youtube.com/user/cycletorquedotcom
NEWSLETTER
– Chris Pickett chris@cycletorque.com.au
EMAIL US YOUR FEEDBACK
CONTENTS
cycletorque.com.au MAY 2015 I 3
Ridden
25 LAUNCH
2015 BMW R 1200 R
35 LAUNCH
YAMAHA MT-09 TRACER
Features 62
WINTER BIKE GEAR
75
TOURING MYANMAR
80
CT PEOPLE
83
QUAD TORQUE
44 LAUNCH
54 TEST
2015 SUZUKI RMX 450 Z
DUCATI 821 MONSTER
Regulars
ON THE COVER: BMW R 1200 R BY JEFF CROW
5
NEWS TORQUE
23
GUNTRIP
15
SMALL TORQUE
86
SHOP TORQUE
19
EDITORIAL
87
MARKET TORQUE
20
DIRTY TORQUE
90
BOOK SHOP
22
RACE TORQUE
95
TORQUE BACK - LETTERS
cycletorque.com.au MAY 2015 I 4
HIGH-BALL
®
If it’s attitude you’re looking for, reach up and grab the handlebars of the Victory High-Ball®. This barebones bobber packs a one-two punch of cranked up performance and stripped down style that can’t be mistaken for any other bike. With whitewall tyres and a shorty front fender, the Victory High-Ball exudes confidence you won’t soon forget.
VictoryMotorcycles.com.au | P: 1300 721 360 | *Overseas Model Shown with optional accessories fitted. ^Facebook® is a registered trademark of Facebook, Inc.
NEWS TORQUE
cycletorque.com.au MAY 2015 I 5
MA Board Steps Down MOTORCYCLING Australia has been undertaking a detailed review (Whole of Sport Review WOSR) over the last few months of motorcycle sport and MA’s role in it. As part of this process, the MA board has decided to all step down en masse. Many people have been quite critical of MA’s role in promoting motorcycle racing in Australia when it says it is merely a governing body and doesn’t promote. This has clearly not been the case in my opinion, despite what MA says but current MA President Braxton Laine has pledged to all members that the findings of the review would be made public. Laine has said that findings from the WOSR and the recommended strategies from those findings will improve financial sustainability and operational efficiency so that funds can be re-distributed back to MA’s members. This may include development of better programs to assist at grass roots and elite levels which provide a pathway for rider development. He also says though, that implementation of the recommendations from the WOSR is subject to agreement by all of the seven State Controlling Bodies. He also goes on to say the current MA Board realises the WOSR is the largest change that has occurred since the formation of the governing body, and lending its support to this entire process, following the adoption of the WOSR recommendations by the State Controlling Bodies, he and his fellow board members will step down from their board positions at this year’s AGM. This will allow for a transparent process for the election (and appointment) of the individuals who the members believe will be best able to govern this organisation during this new and exciting phase in its history. All current directors will be able to make themselves available for election/appointment if they choose to do so. As part of the review process, Motorcycling Australia has formed a Nominations Committee whose role will be to identify a pool of people who have the range of skills and experience the organisation requires as potential candidates for board positions. While the Committee may actively seek out candidates, the State Controlling Bodies will still be able to nominate candidates, but will have to do so through the Committee. If you feel you can add your skills to Motorcycle Australia you can provide an initial expression of interest to MA CEO Dale Gilson at ceo@ ma.org.au. For the record, I think that generally the people at MA do a great job. It would not be easy and being a target for disgruntled members would be a common occurrence I would think. I have been involved in road racing for a quarter of a century and have rarely found myself at odds with MA officials. But that said it would be hard to say that all decisions over the last decade or so have been done with transparency and the best interest of the members at heart, in my opinion, and therein lies some of the problem MA currently finds itself in. I hope they sort it out. – Chris Pickett
NEWS TORQUE
cycletorque.com.au MAY 2015 I 6
Braaap comes to Liverpool
We provide a one- stop shop for all your motorcycle, and ATV needs. Have a browse through our We provide amule onestop shop for all your motorcycle, Virtual Used Bikes Showroom, which displays a cross mule, ATV & jetsection ski needs. Have a browse our of our stock - approx 160 bikesthrough on the floor. We proudly and professionally later model Virtual Used Bikes Showroom, whichservice displays a cross bikes in our onsite service facilities. All types of service section of our stock including - approx 160 bikes on athe floor. is covered fitting tyres. We carry full range of accessories and spare parts. We also have a loan See our professional team of bike service to keep you mobile. technicians for all your service • 9 Buckingham Dr Wangara - p 08 9409 2330 needs. We carry a -full range • 237 Great Eastern Highway Midland 08 p 9250 2522 of accessories, tyres and We. also w w w . m a c spare k 1 . parts. c o m a u have a loan bike service to keep you mobile.
AUSTRALIAN designed and owned braaap Motorcycles has recently partnered with Liverpool Bikes at Emu Plains in New South Wales. Gary from Liverpool bikes is stocking the entire range of braaap Motorcycles including all dirt and road models. “We are excited to have a dealer out west of Sydney CBD,” a braaap spokesman said. “As the only Australian Motorcycle Manufacturer we now have 30 plus dealerships across Australia and New Zealand,” he said. You can view the complete dealer list here www.braaapdealer.com “braaap also offers a lifetime warranty of all their bikes,” the spokseman said.
TWO LARGE STORE LOCATIONS • 9 Buckingham Dr Wangara - p 08 9409 2330 • 237 Great Eastern Highway Midland - p 08 9250 2522
w w w. m a c k 1 . c o m . a u
Read the latest review Cycle Torque did on the Mercury 250cc which is a joint braaap-Sol Invictus motorcycle http://www.cycletorque.com.au/ cycle-torque-test-mercury-caferacer/
Gary is located at 1/3 Bromley Rd, Emu Plains. Ph. 02 4735 7788 n MRB 2253
D/L 19719
NEWS TORQUE
cycletorque.com.au MAY 2015 I 7
The Barry 2105 was another stellar year for the Barry Sheene Festival of Speed. The event seems to be getting stronger with each year’s passing. This year the headline celebrity has Freddy Spencer, with British fast lady Maria Costello again making the trip south. Both were popular, especially ‘Fast Freddie’ who made himself very available to fans. Spencer had a number of guest rides on machines similar to those he rode back in the glory days. Post Classic Racing stalwart Ken Lindsay once displayed a wonderfully prepared motorcycle, this time a Honda RS250 in Spencer colours, and the man himself rode it for the gathering crowd. Wayne Fox is another classic racing veteran with a beautiful collection of racing motorcycles. He turned up with his Honda VF750 superbike, complete with all the factory go fast bits like the RSC engine and grand prix wheels. Despite some dramas coaxing the bike out a hibernation, the crew worked tirelessly to get it ready for ‘Freddie’ and to hear him get that bike on the ‘pipe’, well in this case the two pipes, was something special. There were big crowds over the three day event, and there were some fantastic machinery on display too, both in the pit garages and on club stands and the show-n-shine. Many racing classes were catered for and grids were full but the headline act on the track was always going to be the Barry Sheene for the fastest 50 Period 5 and 6 bikes. This essentially had bikes built from 1973 through to 1990 going at it together for bragging rights. The front row consisted of Shawn Giles and Steve Martin on Trevor Birrell built Suzuki Katanas in one and two respectively, closely followed in third by Cycle Torque’s own Alex Pickett on another Suzuki GSX, with Mr Superbike himself Robbie Phillis rounding out the front row on a Suzuki powered XR69. The first race was chaos with Giles crashing on the first lap after his engine broke, then a couple of laps later Phillis took out Martin with an overtake move everyone could see was never on. The race was red flagged and at the restart it was Pickett on the front row all by himself. Of course he got the holeshot but clutch problems saw him relegated to fourth at the end of race one behind Malcolm Campbell (Harris Honda), Dean Oughtred (Suzuki GSX-R1100) and John Allen on the wonderfully prepared Yamaha TZ750. This would be the top three in each of the next two Barry Sheene feature races as Phillis, Giles, Martin and Pickett were all out of contention either with injuries or mechanical woes. Other notable performances in the feature race was Stephen Ward on his ex Fast by Feracci 888 Ducati and Scott Campbell on the second T-Rex Harris Honda. Other feature races included the Freddie Spencer Challenge which was won by Simon Thomas on a TZ250 from that man again, Stephen Ward on his Armstrong 250 and Alan Johnston, Yamaha TZ mounted also. It was run in conjunction with the Paul Dobbs Memorial race for Period 4 machines up to 750cc. It was won by Aiden Coote on a Triumph Trident from Nick Cole on a Norton ES2 and Cam Donald on a slick looking Egli Vincent. You can find out more results by going to www.natsoft.com.au n
NEWS TORQUE
EBR reportedly folds AUSTRALIAN distributor of EBR (Erik Buell Racing) Urban Moto Imports says it is business as usual and there were no reports to the contrary as Cycle Torque went to press.
cycletorque.com.au MAY 2015 I 8
TOUGHEN UP YOUR RIDE
The Wilwaukee-Wisconsin Journal Sentinel reported on April 15 that the company had ceased operations leaving 126 employees out of work. The US publication reported that the company apparently had $20million in outstanding liabilities and had filed for court protection from its creditors. Initially, the new company produced hand-built $40,000 sport bikes for roadracing enthusiasts. More recently, it geared up to build a less expensive massproduction motorcycle with a racing pedigree. Company founder Erik Buell invested his own money into the venture, while Hero MotoCorp Ltd., the largest motorcycle manufacturer in India, had a 49% stake. America’s financial laws are different to Australia’s so it may well be not as clear cut as it reads. They may be seeking protection from their creditors and attempting to trade out of the current financial woes.
VPS
STORM
CARBON
• Hand and lever protection for your street bike • Single or two point mount handguards • Choose your style from Carbon, VPS or Storm
EBR was founded by Erik Buell, whose original incarnation as Buell Motorcycle Co, was owned by Harley-Davidson until it dropped the brand in 2009. We here at Cycle Torque think it would be a great shame to see the company shut its doors. Buell produces his motorcycles with extreme passion and they are an amazing product as a result. n
Find what fits your bike at www.barkbusters.net
NEWS TORQUE
CYC L E T O R Q U E F E B RMAY U A R2015 Y 2 0 1I 9 5 cycletorque.com.au
Get Routed to Enzed GET Routed New Zealand was previously owned and run by Dave Milligan and Maggie Wolfenden. Due to Dave’s heart attack in May 2013 the need to reduce stress saw a change of ownership. The NZ part of the business has been taken over by Clive McFadden of Tuggerah, NSW. Clive is a weekend motorcyclist riding a 2006 Kawasaki Nomad. His first bike was a Yamaha DT250 scrambler, riding with mates over the sand hills of Kurnell. (a long time ago) A carpenter by trade with an eye for detail and doing things right, Clive has every intention of providing the same personalised and professional service offered by Dave. The purchase of the business was driven by the enjoyment of motorcycling, an affinity with New Zealand that came about during a 12 month holiday in 1974 and the friendship formed with a Kiwi who moved back to New Zealand two years ago. Clive is hoping the business will allow him to ride New Zealand in the near future. Dave Milligan will assist Clive with the administrative functions for the first few months and will continue loading New Zealand bound shipments from Melbourne. For bike shipping to Europe, UK and North America go to www.getrouted.com.au. For specific New Zealand shipping check out www.getroutednewzealand.com.au n
It’s not where you’re going, It’s how you get there!
http://www.kenma.com.au/motorcycle_luggage.html
INTRODUCING
Dark H�se Blacked-out from end to end, the Indian® Chief Dark Horse® brings bold new styling to the Indian Motorcycle line-up. Indianmotorcycle.com.au P: 1300 00 463 426 | *Overseas model show with optional accessories. **Facebook® is a registered trademark of Facebook Inc
NEWS TORQUE
CT Monster
CY C L E T O R Q U E F E BMAY R U A2015 R Y 2 0I 11 15 cycletorque.com.au
Päijänne THE ADVENTURE OUTFIT FOR ALL ROADS
CALLING all riders looking for a sweet sounding and sweet handling Ducati Monster. Cycle Torque is selling its 2014 659 Monster because we will soon be getting another project bike to replace it.
HiM
It might be learner legal but everyone in the office really loves this bike. It’s easy to ride, goes well and has been well looked after. So, while learner rider’s might be attracted to it, those on a full licence will be just as happy with this bike. It has a low seat height, which is nice for shorter riders but most of the riders here at Cycle Torque are at least six foot, and we’ve all found the bike comfy even on long distance rides, of which it’s had a few.
LIGHTWEIGHT GLOVES
We got it new in June 2014 (it was built in April 2014) and it’s due to be reregistered this June. Tyres are good, it’s got just over 6,000 kilometres on the clock and it’s also got the accessory Imola 72 body kit, which does make it stand out quite a bit from the standard ones out there. The original white bodywork comes with the bike too. This adds over $1000 to the original price. Other than that the bike is all standard. There’s nothing to do to it, just get out and enjoy. You can have all this fun and frivolity for $10,250, which is dead cheap for one of the best LAMS bikes on the market. You’ll then understand what all the fuss is about. Interested? Give us a call at the Cycle Torque office on 02 4956 9820, or editor Chris Pickett on 0404 030 925.
Help us through in the USA Have you toured Northern USA? Our publisher, Nigel Paterson is doing a tour from Milwaukee to New York via Chicago, Detroit, Niagara Falls Rochester and would like to know where you think he should go to experience the best roads, sights, food and people. If you have friends there, he’d love to talk to them about their local riding roads and bikes. Email Nigel via usa@cycletorque.com.au or contact us through the Cycle Torque Facebook page. The story of the trip will be on Cycle Torque’s Spring TV series and in print at the end of the year.
Cycle Torque needs to test farm, kids’ and motocross machinery from time to time, and we’ve recently lost access to some of the places where we’ve tested in the past – so if you have some private property in the Hunter Valley (NSW) where you’d be happy for us to bring some of the latest machinery and you’re happy for us to cut some laps, please let us know. Email publisher@cycletorque.com.au or give the office a call on 02 4956 9820. n
Apollo WATERPROOF GLOVES WITH X-TRAFIT TECHNOLOGY
Meteorit WATER- AND WINDPROOF CORDURA JACKET
www.innotesco.com.au • sales@innotesco.com.au • Tel. 0414 814194 Shop online at www.rukka.com.au
NEWS TORQUE
Another Victory POLARIS Industries, Inc. has announced the appointment of All American Motorcycles in Ringwood, Victoria to the Victory and Indian Motorcycle network as their newest authorised service centre.
All American Motorcycles is the new business for industry stalwart Rick Thomas who has had a long career with motorcycles including time with Victory Motorcycles Australia. Rick’s new venture will form part of the expanding Victory and Indian Motorcycle network servicing the growing number of customers. All American Motorcycles will offer full service including Dyno tuning, parts and apparel on site with the added bonus of a small range of demonstrator Victory and Indians. “We’re delighted to welcome All American Motorcycles to the network, Rick and his team have a strong affinity with both Victory and Indian Motorcycle,” Country Manager Peter Harvey said. “I know and like the Victory product having worked for Polaris Industries Australia just after the brand launched locally and in the company owned dealerships, so when the opportunity presented itself I was keen to get involved, plus the allure of Indian is very exciting and I see huge potential for both brands,” All American Motorcycles owner Rick Thomas said. All American Motorcycles is at 2/6 Olive Grove, Ringwood, Vic. Ph 03 9897 3322 or check out www.allamericanmotorcycles.com.au n
CY C L E T O R Q U E F E BMAY R U A2015 R Y 2 0I 12 15 cycletorque.com.au
HILLS MOTORCYCLE WRECKERS WRECKING JAPANESE AND EUROPEAN BIKES OLD AND NEW MODELS
n Unwanted bikes pickup n Best service
n We buy bikes for cash in any condition
n Blue slip done on premises by appointment.
1/47 Prince William Drive, Seven Hills NSW 2147
Phone : 0296743844 • Mobile : 0428223385 • Fax : 0296743822 • Email : enquiries@hillsmotorcyclewreckers.com.au
www.hillsmotorcyclewreckers.com.au ABN 71 523 226 982 Dealers Licence NO MD 16001
cycletorque.com.au MAY 2015 I 13
spidi.com
spidi.com
Moto National Accessories
TOLL FREE 1300 885 355
motonational.com.au
NEWS TORQUE
Caponord just around the corner Aprilia’s new Caponord Rally will be available from your local Aprilia retailer from May with a rideaway price of $24,000.
cycletorque.com.au MAY 2015 I 14
City Coast Motorcycles Sales Service Parts & Accessories Rider Equipment Finance
The Ultimate Riding Machine
Australian customers will be able to choose from matte colour schemes of Giallo Dune and Grigio Safari (Giallo is the Italian word for yellow and Grigio is grey). First announced in January the Caponord 1200 Rally features spoked wheels with a 19inch front allowing you to take on any terrain.The bike is made even more versatile with the sophisticated ADD semi-active suspension system which adjusts the suspension in real time depending on riding style, condition of the road and load. The Caponord 1200 Rally features a top notch electronic control package comprising traction control (aTC) which is adjustable and can also be disabled, ride by wire (rBW) with selectable engine map, cruise control (aCC) and ABS which can also be disabled. Spacious aluminium panniers allow even a pillion to travel without making any sacrifices. Other standard equipment includes handguards, oversized adjustable windshield, ample side guards, 24-litre fuel tank and the supplementary LED lights which complement the traditional Aprilia triple front headlight. The 1200cc twin-cylinder engine is at the top of its class for performance, even at low revs. For more information check out www.aprilia.com.au n
City Coast Motorcycles 262 Keira Street, Wollongong T 02 4228 7392 citycoastmotorcycles.com.au martin@citycoastmotorcycles.com.au
SMALL TORQUE
cycletorque.com.au MAY 2015 I 15
Be a champ DUCATI Australia and New Zealand has announced that tickets are now on sale to the Phillip Island leg of the 2015 MotoGP Champions Club, hosted by Ducati on 16th – 18th October 2015. Positioned right on Turn Four the ‘Champions Club’ is the perfect spot to catch all the thrills and spills as you overlook all the actions from Southern Loop to Siberia against the beautiful backdrop of the Bass Straight. ON THUNDERBIRD STORM
You’ll get all the usual treats like great food, cool and hot drinks (cash bar for spirits) Superscreen viewing and pit walks just as a start. Of course the price, $880 adult, $830 child covers entry for the three days. For more info and to register go to www.ducati.com.au. If you are a Ducati fan you just have to be there.
CF Finance CFMoto Australia recently launched its new finance division – CFMoto Finance. CFMoto Australia Director, Michael Poynton says customers who wish to purchase a CFMoto vehicle with finance can expect fast and convenient access to funds at incredible rates.
FREE PANNIERS SAVE $1,000
“We’re revved to be able to finally offer our customers some of the best deals around. It is a move that will see us become one of the most reputable finance providers in the industry for our customers.”
EXHAUST FITTED
SAVE $950
WHILE STOCKS LAST
For example, customers can ride away on a 650cc LAMs approved motorcycle for as little as $62 a week due to the very attractive 6.99 per cent interest rate. You can apply directly through CFMoto dealers.
2014 THUNDERBIRD
$19,990 RIDE AWAY
FREE ARROW EXHAUST with STREET TRIPLE R
Lifting the bar WE CAN all appreciate how difficult is is to get to and remain at the top as a professional sporting person. Motorcycling Australia has regularly run performance academies over the years but the new course is designed to take this training to a higher level again. 16 riders from across the road race, motocross, enduro and speedway/dirt-track disciplines will be invited to participate in the first phase of the program on the Gold Coast from June 12-14, 2015. From that camp, eight riders will be selected for the final Elite Performance Academy (EPA) squad. The Elite Performance Academy will be totally different to any of the other elite programs run by MA in the past, and it is exciting to be a part of it,” EPA Exercise Physiologist Tim Cole said. “The first camp will focus heavily on sports science, and among that will be physical testing, psychological profiling, training and education. “Members of the EPA squad will effectively receive the same support and management as factory teams have, and with these processes in place, the scope for individual improvement is huge.”
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triumphmotorcycles.com.au
cycletorque.com.au MAY 2015 I 16
Port Macquarie
SMALL TORQUE
cycletorque.com.au MAY 2015 I 17
Ag bike THE road registrable KLX150L is a Learner legal trail bike that is now even more diverse in its application with the introduction of the ‘Ag Kit’! The Agricultural Kit features a headlight protector, optional front mudflap, aluminium hand guards and a rear rack. Check out your local Kawasaki dealer or visit www.kawasaki.com.au for more info.
Going Moto URBAN Moto, distributor for a wide variety of exotic machinery has announced a new dealer in Victoria. Raceway Motorcycles in Niddrie is now an authorised dealer for Benelli, EBR and Royal Enfield motorcycles. Besides selling these bikes, Raceway Motorcycles can also service them and sell you parts and accessories. You’ll find them at 561 Keilor Road in Niddrie.
On the grid YCF is a brand new to Australia but the importer, Patrick Lowry, is far from being new to the industry, being the go to man at the Paul Feeney Group for many years, importing Husqvarna and MV Agusta motorcycles. He is now the official importer of these mini motorcycles and he’s recently let us know that the little fully automatic YCF 50A four stroke 50cc electric start kids bike has been approved by Motorcycling Australia for competition use in the National 50cc Demo class. This is a big deal for Lowry Australia because in the past MA and many junior clubs have been against non European or Japanese made junior machines being allowed to compete. The YCF 50A retails for $1,590 and you can find out more at www.ycf-motorcycles.com.au.
Superbike School MANY riders and racers have received the benefits of the California Superbike School here in Australia over the years. I personally took my son Alex to every one of the four levels of the Superbike School and saw the improvements he made. It’s part of the reason he is the racer he is today.
E L C Y C R O T O M
& S R I A P RE SERVICE QUALIFIED MOTORCYCLE TECHNICIANS EXCELLENT EXPERIENCED SPARES BACK UP PINK SLIPS, BLUE SLIPS AND GREEN SLIPS SAME PLACE SAME PEOPLE FOR NEARLY 20 YEARS TYRE SERVICE ROAD, RACE AND OFF ROAD WE REPAIR AND SERVICE BIKES FROM MINI TO MONSTER
But you don’t have to race to get the benefits, much of what is taught is also very relevant to road riding and machine operational skills. The CSS has released four dates for later in the year, so you can plan easier to get to one. August 17 and 18 will be held at the Sydney Motorsport Park, while September 14 and 15 will see the school at Phillip Island. For more info call 1300 793 423 or visit www.superbikeschool.com.au. If you don’t currently have a bike, no worries, you can hire one of their BMW S 1000 RRs for the day. n
309 PRINCES HWY, ROCKDALE, NSW
(02) 9599 0011
www.highwayperformancebikes.com.au
EXPERIENCE THE ULTIMATE WITH DONCASTER BMW MOTORRAD. MAKE LIFE A RIDE.
Agile handling, sporty performance and unadulterated motorcycling pleasure. Doncaster BMW Motorrad and Bundoora BMW Motorrad are pleased to announce the arrival of three all new motorcycles to the Motorrad range, the S 1000 RR, the R 1200 R and the F 800 R, all available now for immediate delivery. The BMW S 1000 RR now elicits even sharper performance, particular attention has been paid to increasing the rider-friendly performance. The BMW R 1200 R upholds the tradition of comfort, dynamism and touring capability while the BMW F 800 R delights riders with the sporty performance and agile handling. Contact Doncaster BMW Motorrad or Bundoora BMW Motorrad to organise a test ride today. Doncaster BMW Motorrad 814 Doncaster Road, Doncaster VIC 3108 Ph: (03) 8848 0000 doncasterbmwmotorrad.com.au LMCT 8560
Bundoora BMW Motorrad 62 Enterprise Drive, Bundoora VIC 3083 Ph: (03) 9468 8000 bundoorabmwmotorrad.com.au LMCT 8560
Tap to experience more
EDITORIAL
cycletorque.com.au MAY 2015 I 19
Congestion I KNOW I’m going to cop some flack from this editorial but I feel I have to get it off my chest. The only good thing about Sydney is the harbour and the roads leading out of it.
less emissions. Better all round for everyone. But the congestion charge should pretty much take in all of Sydney. Almost everywhere you go it’s overcrowded with traffic.
My wife and I love going down to Sydney for the weekend and doing the Darling Harbour bit, ferries, plonking ourselves at cafes and the like but much of it is done either on foot or with public transport. The traffic in Sydney is just appalling. That’s why Sydney needs a congestion charge, just like London, or as in some major European cities where motor transport is simply not permitted in the CBD.
Late last year my wife had to go to Sydney for a personal matter for a couple of days. We had some free time so I came up with the idea of driving up to Palm Beach. I hadn’t driven up there for over 20 years and she had never been there. Well what a mistake that was. Neither of us could believe how long it took to drive from Mosman to Palm Beach in the middle of the day, basically due to the heavy traffic. Sure, we had a nice lunch while looking at the ocean but then we had to face the drive back. What a nightmare.
Just last night I was stuck in bumper to bumper traffic at 7pm on a Tuesday. I couldn’t believe it. Where were all these people going? Well it was Pennant Hills Road I suppose, so I guess many would have been heading to that other overcrowded rabbit warren of a place, the Central Coast. Yes, some of the beaches and quieter outlying suburbs are nice but the built-up areas are just too much. I think the congestion tax should be put in place by the NSW government so people seriously consider public transport options, and of course motorcycles.
Email us your feedback
In London you see lots more motorcycles in the congestion charge area, because they get heavy discounts on the charge. Imagine what it would be like then. Better parking, less stress,
Will it happen? Maybe one day but the sooner the better in my opinion. On another note, recently I was invited to be a guest speaker at the 50th anniversary dinner of the Newcastle Vintage Motorcycle Club. Well known editor of Old Bike Australasia was also a guest speaker. Jim spoke about various things from his motorcycling past while I was asked to speak about the exploits my son Alex and I have had at the Isle of Man. It was a fantastic night, with great entertainment and chatting with the members. I’m not a regular of big clubs, but I am a member of a couple of smaller clubs in the area I live. The classic bike and car scene is fairly big in the rural area I live, north of Maitland, with our local Paterson Service Station being the main focal point
for informal gatherings. That’s because we are all friends with Mark and Robyn the owners. Mark has quite a decent sized collection of vehicles and loves them, while I think Robyn tolerates Mark’s obsession. The area generally is known for its lovely scenery and winding roads, so seeing bikes go past my place is a very regular occurrence. On weekends you’ll always find bikes parked at Paterson Servo because the food is great, as is the coffee, and the staff are always friendly. The underlying message here is that messing about on bikes with your mates and family is just about one of the best things you can do. The people my family has met through motorcycle racing and my interest in motorcycles generally are just amazing. Many of them will be friends for the rest of my life. That’s why the Newcastle Vintage Motorcycle Club has been going strong for 50 years. You can always enjoy your hobby by yourself but it’s always better sharing it with someone else. – Chris Pickett
DIRTY TORQUE
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The second career
FORMER motocross and supercross champions have a knack of keeping themselves busy in the motorcycle industry long after their racing days are over. When you look at some of the major players in all aspects of our industry or in the racing scene you will see some very familiar names, let’s see who the major players are. Five times World Champion Roger DeCoster has had an extremely successful post racing career which started with moving to America in 1981. Aside from taking an all Honda riding team of Americans to the Motocross and Trophy Des Nations that started years of dominance, DeCoster was an integral part of the development of Honda’s production CR range throughout the 1980s. After working with and winning championships with the likes of Ricky Johnson, Jean-Michel Bayle and Johnny O-Mara at Honda, DeCoster went across to Suzuki and won championships with Travis Pastrana, Greg Albertyn and of course, Ricky Carmichael. Team Suzuki was the dominant team with Roger at the helm. Roger is now the team manager for the Red Bull KTM team and has already seen success with Ken Roczen winning the AMA Motocross Championships last year and at the time of writing is on the verge of winning two supercross championships with Marvin Musquin and Ryan Dungey. Right now, team KTM is the dominant team in the AMA paddock, which is why Roger is ‘The Man’. Email us your feedback
After Stefan Everts won an incredible 10 World Motocross
Championships he immediately fell into the rider and bike development role which saw Stefan develop the linkage suspension that all of the KTM range currently uses and he was integral to the KTM 350 SX-F project. Jeffrey Herlings managed to win two world MX2 championships under Stefan’s guidance and you can already see the extra speed that Pauls Jonass is carrying now that he has Stefan in his corner. Ricky Carmichael won 10 AMA motocross championships and five AMA supercross championships and as you would expect, RC is still challenging himself as the co-owner of the RCH Suzuki team with former freestyle guru Corey Hart. Carmichael and Hart want to beat the factory teams and until recently were leading the AMA Supercross Championship with Ken Roczen at the helm of their RMZ 450. Closer to home we have Jeff Leisk who is using the same wit and determination that garnered him so many championships on a motorcycle to turning KTM into a powerhouse on and off the track here in Australia. As the General Manager for KTM Australia Leisk is one of the most respected people in the industry and along with fellow motocross champion Rob Twyerould is a major part of KTM’s world wide success.
Multi Australian Champion Craig Dack’s CDR Yamaha team is the standout performer in our national racing scene with the best part of 40 national titles attributed to the team. Lee Hogan, Kim Ashkanazi, Craig Anderson, Daryl Hurley, Chad Reed, Darryll King, Troy Carroll, Josh Coppins and Jay Marmont have all enjoyed the benefits of racing Dacka’s factory backed Yamahas.
Stephan Gall’s record on a dirt bike needs no embellishment but it is what he has achieved postracing career that is quite phenomenal. Gally started with a very successful coaching business that was proudly supported by Yamaha and to this very day he still represents Yamaha at many of its promotional events and rides. For as long as I can remember Gally has been the Australian and New Zealand distributor for CTi Knee Braces and just recently was the main man behind all of the motorcycle stunts on the soon to be released Mad Max Fury Road. Here’s just a few former champions making a living from the motorcycle scene: Craig Anderson, Andrew Bailey, Andrea Bartonlini, Michael Byrne, Troy Carroll, Johnny Distefano, Jeff Emig, Anthony Gunter, Lyndon Heffernan, Daryl Hurley, Grant Langston, Steve Lamson, Mike LaRocco, Jeremy McGrath, Shane Metcalfe, Ben Townley… ok, I’ll stop, this could go on for ages! – Darren Smart
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RACE TORQUE
Meh Marquez THE world has been marvelling at the incredible feats of Marc Marquez at the Circuits of America Grand Prix in Texas. The world could be forgiven. Your number-one bike flashes some horrendous warning forcing you to park it with just minutes to go in final qualifying. The world watches on as you sprint down the pitlane to jump on your number-two bike. It doesn’t have the gun front tyre but it will have to do. Cal Crutchlow is sitting on provisional pole with a phenomenal lap on his LCR Honda, and Dovi is quicksilver fast on the Gigi-cobbled Ducati GP15. Then there’s 36-year-old Valentino Rossi turning back the clock after crafting one of his strongest ever wins at the season-opener at Qatar. And as you head out, you have barely enough time to complete your out-lap before you start your last flying lap. For any other rider, this would be a major problem. But not Marc Marquez. At the back of his mind is the disastrous showing at Qatar where he ran off at the first corner and recovered to get within sight of the leaders. Many of us thought mercurial Marquez would hunt down the leaders as he has done so often, but when he was unable to lap any faster than Rossi to finish a distant fifth, we saw our first chink in the MM phenomenon. Maybe he isn’t so special after all.
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Austin blew that theory into the weeds. After surviving a big moment over a crest in fourth gear followed by two out-ofcontrol pivot steers where his Honda did its best to swap
ends, Marquez claimed pole by a comfortable 0.3secs. The sheer audacity of it all coupled to the huge smile on his face spelt trouble for his rivals, and they knew it. Unerringly, normal service had resumed. MM was now red-hot favourite for the race and there wasn’t a whole lot anybody could do about it. Sure Dovi led a merry dance for the first one-third of the race, but once Marquez levered by he eked out a nice buffer leaving the Ducati rider and Rossi to fight over what has become in Marquez MotoGP parlance, the scraps, ipso facto a distant second place. As a two-time defending champion, Marquez was on paper facing his toughest year ever. The Ducatis under Gigi are now incredibly competitive despite losing two-litres of fuel and are proving easier on their tyres. Rossi is remarkably motivated to push Marquez to the limit – wherever that may lay – and beyond. Austin has never been a strong Yamaha track and the Doctor reckons the season is far from over. He led the points’ standings after Texas and was determined to stay there. Bradley Smith is building on his mid-2014 breakthrough of achieving his first MotoGP podium at Phillip Island, and the impressive Suzukis finished in the top 10 at Austin. Everyone has lifted their games, with exceptions of the injured Dani Pedrosa and the visually obscured (at Qatar) and ill (at Austin) Jorge Lorenzo, but no matter how far the field has come they are not even at Marquez’s 2014 level so heaven help them once he has a clear run. It’s got to the point where nothing he does really surprises me. Meh Marquez.
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Bathurst In the wake of Mike Baird’s much-publicised pitch to relieve Victoria of the Australian F1 Grand Prix, it will be interesting to see whether the justreturned NSW Coalition government will go after the Australian MotoGP as well. It is almost 20 years since NSW staged a world championship road racing event, and Australia’s biggest motorcycling state is itching for either the GP or WSBK to make a return. It is believed Dorna is pushing for the Bathurst redevelopment to happen, so read into that what you may. The reality is that the Australia Grand Prix is now the second-lowest attended event based on 2014 figures excluding the whacky late night Qatar GP, with a three-day crowd of 77,900 compared to 70,271 at the remote and uninspiring Motegi. Given Phillip Island is the most beautiful destination and spectacular circuit on the GP calendar, and despite claims of over-zealous policing, that stat is very hard to understand. – Darryl Flack
GUNTRIP
End of the line WHAT with one thing and another it was getting on for three by the time we arrived. Marie had the front door open almost before we were out of the car, but considering she’d lost her husband to cancer two weeks before I didn’t think she looked too bad. Black’s not her colour though.
We were at the funeral when Marie asked if I’d take a look at Barry’s shed – they’d had no kids – to sort it out and sell what I could. And here I was, on the threshold of one man’s Aladdin’s cave. A bloke’s life in bits, if you like. Not surprisingly, the contents of the shed hadn’t changed much since last I was there, but if it looked the same it certainly didn’t feel it. Now it all seemed, I don’t know, kind of silent and lifeless, like a mausoleum or something – which I suppose is what it was, when you think about it. The Model 7 Norton was nearest the door, Black Japan gleaming and drip tray under the sump gratifyingly empty. Barry had put years and thousands into that thing and just about had it finished when he went into hospital for the last time. Against the opposite wall was his daily ride, a 1250 Bandit. These I knew – I’d ridden the Suzuki and used most of the tools on the bench and in the old kitchen cabinet beside it. What I wasn’t so sure about was the back half of the shed: more cabinets, a couple of chests and, in one corner, an old school desk, an office chair. Email us your feedback
The front cabinets were easy: oil, WD-40, gaskets, spark plugs, batteries, a soldering iron; an old single-door wardrobe held his riding gear, waterproofs, his old silver Shoei and a white Arai motocross lid I hadn’t seen before. Behind the cabinet were stacks of magazines: Two Wheels dating back to the 1980s, and a tall, yellowing tower that looked like a full edition of REVS. I squeezed in behind the magazines. The light didn’t penetrate this far and I shone my torch towards the far corner and another small cabinet. In front of it was a small shape, thigh high and distinctly bike-like. I pulled at a corner of the tarp covering it to reveal a perfect half-scale motorcycle. Silver tank, black seat, knobby tyres and as far as I could see, unused. I don’t know much about these things but I later found out it was a 1974 Honda XR75.
I moved the little Honda out into the light and went back to the remaining cabinet. Photo albums. Pictures of Barry, Jim, Eric and me at Bathurst, going to Phillip Island; the Norton being restored. The surprise was in the last album, which had a title: Macgowan’s Creek Riders’ Club. Pictures of young kids – as young as eight or 10, as old as 14 or 15, boys and girls – riding assorted trail bikes through creeks and over logs; groups of kids cheering for the camera, helmets held aloft; kids spectating at motocross meetings, kids grouped around camp fires, hotdogs in hand. Barry was in some of the pics, standing somewhere in the middle, looking a bit awkward. And there was one, right at the back, of 30 or so of these kids, all in mud-spattered riding kit,
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grouped round a sign that read: “To our founder and president, Barry James: GET WELL SOON! From the members of Macgowan’s Creek Riders’ Club”. I was stunned. I laid the photo album on the desk and it was then I saw the envelope with my name on it. There was a note inside. Hey Steve, Marie and I discussed getting you here to clear the place. If I know you you’ll have found the photo albums and discovered my little secret. The XR was for the son we never had – but I had to tell somebody about motorbikes, help them enjoy the sport and do it right, and the club for local kids came out of that. Stupid, eh? Marie knew, of course, but she never let on. Funny thing is, I never could hand over the XR to the kids. I guess it’s yours now. For that grandson you dote on, eh? Oh, and the Norton’s for you too. Marie’s got the paperwork. Ride safe old mate. Barry – Bob Guntrip
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2015 BMW R 1200 R
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No Gentleman’s Express
2015 BMW R 1200 R CYCLE TORQUE LAUNCH
BMW’s liquid-cooled gem finds its way to the latest naked boxer.
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2015 BMW R 1200 R
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No Gentleman’s Express N REPORT BY CHRIS PICKETT, PHOTOS BY JEFF CROW N RIDING GEAR: OGK HELMET, BMW JACKET, GLOVES BY FIVE GLOVES, FALCO BOOTS.
BMW’S latest R 1200 R is the most technologically advanced ever. It would be odd if that wasn’t the case. This technology though has certainly made it the best boxer based road bike I’ve ever ridden. Putting the recent edgy looking R 1200 R concept bike into reality without losing too much in ADR translation was always going to be difficult for BMW, but besides the racy exhaust and minimalist tailpiece on the concept bike, the production machine isn’t too far removed. And with the 2015 R 1200 R and the naked S 1000 R, BMW is offering a couple of fantastic machines for those wanting a named sports bike. Can you call the R 1200 R a ‘sportsbike’? Well it feels a bigger bike than the S 1000 R, but yes I think you can. Performance from the liquid-cooled boxer engine – already seen in the R 1200 GS/GSA and the R 1200 RT/RS – is stunning. It might have ‘only’ 125 horsepower but it’s the way it gets transferred to the pavement, the smoothness and the flexibility it has, which makes it one of the best engines ever made by BMW.
Liquid Smooth The new liquid-cooled 1170cc flat twin has been around for over 12 months now, and peak power is available at 7,750 rpm, torque (125 Nm) at 6,500 rpm. The engine has the novel induction on the top of the head and the exhaust directly under, rather than the front/rear set up on older boxer engines. It uses a combination of liquid and air cooling, with the exhaust port areas cooled via the twin small radiators. That’s why you can still see some finning on the barrels. The rest of the mechanical package is time honoured BMW, sort of. It’s got a six speed gearbox, wet slipper clutch and the shaft drive, which is both slick looking and very maintenance friendly. No dirty rear wheel from chain lube here. It’s in the suspension department where there’s a bit of a non-BMW flavour. I’m having a bit of a joke here of course, but we’ve been used to seeing a Telelever
front end on these bikes for so long it seems a bit strange seeing a conventional telescopic upside down front end on there. All the test bikes were fitted with DDC (Dynamic Damping Control), which consists of electronically adjusted 45mm Sachs forks, and a similarly adjusted Marzocchi single shock. In fact all Australian delivered bikes will come with this set-up but overseas you can by an R 1200 R with non-electronic suspension. We expect the best Down Under, and we get it. Keeping the all-new mantra going is the quite different looking tubular steel bridge frame, which uses the engine as a stressed member. I mean, who does the cradle frame these days? The new frame has a steering head angle of 27.7 degrees, which, if you are a student of such things, might not sound too radical or sporty. Trail is a not so short 122mm or thereabouts. No, you are not going to be able to steer it like a race bike but then again, that’s one of the reasons it is such a nice road bike.
Aussie Specs When you waltz into a BMW showroom you can choose one of three main models, all of which have slightly different specifications and styling. All three come with the same standard package of cruise control, tyre pressure sensors, heat grips, traction control, riding modes, ABS and that all important electronic suspension (DDC). From Continued on next page Continued on next page
2015 BMW R 1200 R
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CYCLE TORQUE LAUNCH there each model gets slightly different options as standard equipment, from styling to things like LED indicators and so on. You can differentiate between them because they are different colours. The Cordoba Blue machine ($21,950) is perhaps the most ‘standard’ of the three, then you have the grey coloured model, called the Exclusive, and lastly the out there Sport model, the one with the red frame. I think it’s handy BMW has done it this way. Of course you might get some buyers wanting the red/ white model with the blue bike’s options but you can’t please everyone I guess. By the way, the Exclusive and the Sport Light White machines both retail for $22,350 + ORC. BMW has also worked out over the years what BMW buyers want and what sells, and this incidentally usually happens to be heavily optioned machines. That’s why BMW Australia usually doesn’t import basic spec models. There is no adjustable seat on the new R 1200 R but there are a number of different height seats available at no cost when ordered from the factory, or at a cost as an accessory once produced. The standard seat height is 790mm, with 760mm and 820mm heights available too. A comfort seat option is also available for the pillion seat for a scant $75. Cheap. As you would expect from a premium product, the accessory list is long. The main ones though, are the Touring Package (with on board computer), which retails for $600 and includes on-board computer Pro, GPS preparation, main stand, luggage grid and pannier holders; Keyless Ride for $345, which does exactly what it says, and Gear Shift Assistant Pro for $600, which gives you a two way quick-shifter. That’s right, you only need the clutch for starting and stopping.
In Mode There are three main riding modes to choose from: Rain, Street and Dynamic. Each mode has its own in-built or ‘default’ setting, which alters throttle feel, suspension and traction control characteristics to suit. They are pretty self explanatory of course but if you are in Dynamic for example, you get a more direct throttle action, stiffer suspension and less intrusive traction control settings. In Rain it’s the opposite. As an added plus though is User Mode, which allows you to get into the system and individualise what you want. For example, you might want full throttle response from Dynamic Mode but with Rain Mode’s softer suspension. It can all be done, and quite easily too. I have also always liked the fact you can change modes on the fly with one button.
Allowing the electronic suspension to do its thing are numerous sensors, calculating lean angles, throttle inputs and suspension travel. It basically adjusts to suit you on the fly. Ride aggressively and the suspension will change to suit, firming things up nicely. Ride in cruise home mode and the ride will be plusher.
On the road This is easily the fastest and most aggressive R 1200 R I’ve ridden. But I say that in a positive way. It handles extremely well and the electronic suspension copes with everything the conditions throw at it. I spent most of my time in Road Mode because that’s the sort of riding we were doing, sort of fast touring if you like. The bike has some mumbo too, and I’m sure if I turned the traction control off the bike would have had no trouble wheel-standing out of some of the tight roads we were on. The liquid-cooled engine is simply a delight to use, it’s very smooth and has more than enough power to excite. And long gone are the days when you had the up and down shaft drive reaction or the massive side-to-side roll of the engine due to the fat crankshaft characteristics. And gear changes, well with the Gear Shift Assistant Pro, it’s never been simpler really. I still found the bike likes a positive throttle for the best changes, and there’s a slight ‘jump’ in the bike when you go up gears, but overall it works great. Down changes are fantastic, with the ECU automatically self blipping the engine as you bang the gear lever down with no clutch. Even if it never actually made you go faster, it’s a hoot to use. Gives out a lovely note as the bike changes gear too.
Picko’s view I really like this bike. I love the way you sit in it rather than on it, the feel of the engine and the way the suspension does its job without fuss. You don’t ride this bike and think the suspension is a compromise, and that’s a cool feeling. This bike also gives prospective BMW owners a bigger choice in sporting nakeds too. Where before an S 1000 R buyer would probably not have looked at the previous R 1200 R as a viable alternative, now they should. n
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2015 BMW R 1200 R
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SEAT HEIGHT: 790MM
FUEL CAPACITY: 18 LITRES
FRONT SUSPENSION: 45MM ADJUSTABLE USD
REAR SUSPENSION: WAD STRUT (TRAVELRELATED DAMPING)
FRONT TYRE: 120/70-17
REAR TYRE: 180/55-17
REAR BRAKES: SINGLE 2-PISTON CALIPER
FRAME TYPE: TUBULAR STEEL BRIDGE
6-SPEED AND SHAFT DRIVE
ENGINE TYPE: LIQUID-COOLED 4-STROKE FLAT TWIN CAPACITY: 1170CC
DUAL BREMBO 4-PISTON CALIPERS
2015 BMW R 1200 R CYCLE TORQUE LAUNCH
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2015 BMW R 1200 R CYCLE TORQUE LAUNCH
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Photos by RH Photography
Thank you
to all of our loyal customers for all of the support throughout 2014, we couldn’t have done it without you. Here’s to a prosperous 2015, with the same level of service, we hope to, yet again, achieve high results.
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YMA9127_Shoot For Stars_FP_CT_curves.indd 1
11/03/2015 3:07 pm
YAMAHA MT-09 TRACER
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Tracer Escaper
YAMAHA MT-09 TRACER CYCLE TORQUE LAUNCH
Who would have thought you could turn a naked streetbike into such a good sports tourer?
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YAMAHA MT-09 TRACER
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Tracer Escaper N REPORT BY CHRIS PICKETT, PHOTOS BY JOSH EVANS N RIDING GEAR: SHARK HELMET, M2R JACKET, IXON GLOVES, FALCO BOOTS
YAMAHA’S new MT-09 Tracer is the latest in a growing range of odd capacity sports tourers from pretty much every mainstream motorcycle manufacturer out there. For the last 20 years or so, sports-tourer capacities have grown and grown, but this throwback to the past, where a 850cc bike was a ‘big’ bike, is refreshing.
Sensibility and soul In the modern world of lower speed limits and more road traffic a bike like the Tracer makes sense. I don’t mean to say it’s old hat or backwards in technology, it’s not. In fact it is very modern in its styling, lots of edges and angles, it has a number of riding modes, great brakes, decent handling and more, but it’s the way the engine is so usable and the way the suspension soaks up the roads that makes this bike ideal for modern Australia. We tested the 847cc three cylinder MT-09 a couple of years ago now and were very impressed. Yamaha added a couple of extra MT-09 models, the Street Rally and Sport Tracker, which were more styling exercises than anything else, but that’s OK, they looked cool. Apparently Yamaha had also been working on the Tracer the whole time too. The Tracer shares the same basic engine and chassis set up as the standard MT-09, but has the different styling of course plus many practical features like the hand guards, larger fuel tank, adjustable seat and screen and more, making it a more usable everyday machine, especially with the panniers as fitted to our test bike. You wouldn’t normally look at the MT-09 and think, ‘gee that would make a great sports tourer,’ but obviously someone at Yamaha did, and thankfully Yamaha put that thought into action.
Friendly package Mechanically, the engine is unchanged but there have been some alterations to the intake and exhaust, giving a more refined low down power output but still offering the same 113hp as the MT-09. More ‘friendlier’ down low if you like. There are the three D-MODE settings, Standard, A and B. All three modes have different characteristics, and the fly-by-wire system changes the way the throttles work, and how much power you get. Simply put, A mode is feistier than Standard, while B mode is softer and lower in power, designed for dodgy riding conditions, such as rain. The first thing you notice about the three cylinder engine is the flexible nature of the power. It’s very torquey for its capacity, but unlike big cruiser style V-twin engines – also known for their torque – the Tracer’s engine also doesn’t mind a rev or two. And when you are giving it a thrashing it makes that wonderful inline triple sound. I preferred to keep it in Standard mode. A Mode does give Continued on next page
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you a bit more grunt out of a corner but it also makes the throttle a bit less forgiving if you are a bit ham fisted. As the launch was a two-up gig, with wives and partners on board, Standard Mode suited the application better. If I had the panniers off, was flying solo and having a play, then A Mode it would be. We might tend to think a bike under 900cc is small these days but there’s plenty of power to play with on the Tracer. In fact more than enough for the job at hand. Two-up my wife and I weigh in just under 160 kilos and I never felt as though I ‘needed’ more power. I know that statement can cover lots of machines but we were able to percolate along at a very respectable pace. And two-up, the Tracer has no problems climbing over its rear sprocket I can tell you. Top speed would be in the area of 210 to 220 km/h I would think, never bothered to test it. As I said, power is ample for the intended role of this bike. And if you are reasonably sane with the throttle you’ll even get around 300 kilometres from the 18 litre tank. For safety’s sake, non-adjustable ABS and Traction Control systems are fitted as standard. You can switch the TC off if you like but I don’t know why you’d bother on a bike like this, it never felt too intrusive anyway, in fact I barely felt it seeing we were two-up touring and not exactly riding with a lack of sense.
Bump eater The Tracer is endowed with a good level of suspension travel, and the damping is well enough suited to our conditions. Both ends are adjustable for preload and rebound damping. My wife is not exactly heavy so I didn’t feel the need to increase the preload on the shock at first, or the forks for that matter. Generally it was fine unless you hit a decent dip in the road or a big bump, then the rear shock travel was eaten up quickly, bottoming out a few times. The forks never made a complaint so I never bothered to change the settings there. I did adjust the shock for preload and it was better. On smoother roads it was fine, and really the shock set-up is more aimed at comfort than scratching so it’s a good compromise.
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While the comfort equation is helped by the long travel suspension (137mm front, 130mm rear) so it is by the seats. Up front the rider has a two position height adjustable squab (there is also an accessory low seat), while the pillion gets a much larger and plusher seat than you see on the standard MT-09. It’s
no luxo barge set up but my wife seemed happy enough with her perch on the back. And the fairing works well too. It has a manually adjustable screen (30mm), which doesn’t present too much buffeting for the rider, and I liked the hand guards, a nice touch. Yamaha lists both accessory taller screens and heated hand grips. I’d probably buy both. Another feature I liked was the centrestand, which comes standard. Remember the days when you couldn’t buy a bike without one?
Verdict There’s not a lot to dislike on this bike. If you are on the heavy side two-up and carrying panniers full of gear you will probably need to look at doing something with the rear shock, but that’s a personal thing and not a black mark on the bike, especially when it retails for $13,990 + ORC. That price is not a misprint. It is one of the best value sports tourers on the market. It has a lovely usable engine, which will not disappoint on the power side. It is easy to ride, I felt comfortable on it straight away, and really it is well suited to Australian conditions. n Continued on next page
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YAMAHA MT-09 TRACER CYCLE TORQUE LAUNCH
I WET WEIGHT: 210KG I PRICE: FROM $13,990 + ORC (RRP) I FRAME TYPE: ALLOY DIAMOND TYPE
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FUEL CAPACITY: 18 LITRES
SEAT HEIGHT: 845MM
FRONT SUSPENSION: USD TELESCOPIC FORKS, 137MM TRAVEL
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REAR SUSPENSION: SINGLE SHOCK, 130MM TRAVEL
REAR TYRE: 180/55-17 FRONT TYRE: 120/70-17 FRONT BRAKES: DUAL 4-PISTON CALIPERS
ENGINE TYPE: LIQUID-COOLED INLINE TRIPLE CAPACITY: 847CC
TRANSMISSION: 6-SPEED, CHAIN DRIVE
REAR BRAKES: SINGLE CALIPER
YAMAHA MT-09 TRACER CYCLE TORQUE LAUNCH
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FOR A LIMITED TIME RECEIVE A FREE ARROW EXHAUST FITTED WHEN YOU PURCHASE A NEW STREET TRIPLE R
WHILE STOCKS LAST EXCLUDES STREET TRIPLE RX MODEL AND IS INTENDED FOR TRACK USE ONLY
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2015 SUZUKI RMX 450 Z CYCLE TORQUE LAUNCH
Bush Beast
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2015 SUZUKI RMX 450 Z CYCLE TORQUE LAUNCH
Suzuki has finally got its popular 450 MXer some ADR compliance.
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2015 SUZUKI RMX 450 Z
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Bush Beast N REPORT BY TODD REED, PHOTOS BY SUZUKI N RIDING GEAR: TROY LEE DESIGNS HELMET AND APPAREL, ALPINESTARS BOOTS.
SUZUKI’S ADR Compliant RMX 450 Z is finally here. After years in the making, and some serious arm twisting from us Aussies, Suzuki has finally come to the enduro party with a bike that will immediately become a market threat. First released in 2010, the very capable RMX 450 Z was unable to make its mark on the scene due to one major setback, it was not ADR compliant. Suzuki knew it had to get that bike complied if it was ever going to make decent sales with it, and finally that’s been done. It might have taken five years but the wait’s been worth it.
The Specs The RMX 450 is widely based on the popular RMZ 450 motocross bike and in its current form, has specific modifications to suit the Australian market. The RMX is a very aggressively styled offroad machine, and appears to be aimed directly at the more competitive and competent offroad rider.
Beginning with the ADR specs, the RMX comes off the showroom floor with a compact instrument panel offering all you would expect in two different modes, where actual speed, average speed, distance travelled, time and trip length are all covered. Blinkers, lighting and mirrors are a sleek, small, minimalist design and come standard to complete the rego requirements. The chassis and suspension components are close to RMZ motocross spec, but if you look closely you will see some significant changes to
these components, better suiting off-road riding conditions. Showa 47mm mechanical spring cartridge forks fit comfortably up front, while a fully adjustable Showa rear shock controls things out the back. Both ends of the Showa units are specially tuned with different valving and spring rates to suit conditions found in the Aussie bush. The aluminium frame and sub-frame is almost identical to that found on the 2010 to 2014 RMZ motocross bikes. As the RMZ is renowned for being a nimble and agile machine on the motocross track, Continued on next page
2015 SUZUKI RMX 450 Z
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CYCLE TORQUE LAUNCH there was no need for major chassis changes to improve its capabilities between the trees. As is with the handling of the RMZ, the engine is known for being very rider friendly and easy to use. Once again this made things easy for Suzuki engineers to adapt the engine to different markets. Changes were made to the cam profiles, and intake tract to further spread the power and match the characteristics of a slightly longer 5-speed gearbox. The purpose of all this is really just to ensure that the mighty RMX doesn’t run out of top end power on the open fire trails. An electric starting system, plastic skid plate, 18 inch rear wheel, and an extra set of Dunlop tyres are also added to the RMX package right off the showroom floor.
The Ride The location for our ride was set in the Victorian high country, at Mt Buller. Most would agree this would be one of the more perfect proving grounds in Australia for a bike of this calibre. Lots of hills and elevation change, varying styles of terrain including water crossings, rocky hills and grassy loamy trails, and as our Victorian counterparts are well known for, putting on four seasons of weather in one day. Before our ride, it should be noted that our bikes were completely derestricted. The baffle had been removed from the exhaust, Yoshimura ‘Cherry Bomb’ fuel management fitted, and the throttle body limiting screw changed. We suited up on a clear, brisk morning at the base camp and headed straight for the single trails in the hills. Quickly the single trails were throwing all the elements at us. The gearbox was one of the first
items that grabbed our attention. The long range ’box features longer ratios right from 1st through to 5th, unlike many other bikes which simply have a longer 3rd, 4th and 5th. As we approached our first serious steep rocky hill climb for the day, it was as simple as dropping back to 1st and letting the big yellow thumper tractor us up the hill. 1st was all that was needed, and the extra long ratio meant we never ran out of revs. Next we encountered some more flowing terrain where we found some higher speeds and a lot less rocks. The suspension was supple and comfortable back on the single trail, and now when we were launching off a few 4th gear erosion banks it was also doing a fine job of holding up well in the stroke and not wallowing around too much. The Showa suspension setup was proving to be quite the capable package. A few grassy, loamy trails were in order and we soon became much more aware of abundance of power that the RMX 450 delivers. Diving in and out of turns, squirting on the power and taking off in pursuit of the next yellow thumper was easy… as long you don’t get carried away with your right hand. It has quite an aggressive style of power for an enduro bike, there’s no tractor type feel where the engine just chugs along or slowly builds up momentum. The RMX has much more instant power, like its motocross counterpart the RMZ. It’s a quick, agile power curve that is very rewarding and fun to ride. That being said, don’t be confused for thinking the Suzuki is a slouch down low, because it’s not. Taking on the hills, and using that lazy low end power is still very achievable on the Suzook. It’s just got a different feel, not so tractor like, I guess you could say.
Verdict The RMX 450 is a bike with a lot of potential. It does everything well and with some personal changes it becomes an extremely capable bike. If you have some mechanical knowledge and tools in your shed, it’s really easy to derestrict the bike and take it from ADR to race spec. All that’s required is to take out the muffler baffle, change the throttle body limiting screw, add the Yoshimura ‘Cherry Bomb’ to sort out the fuel mixtures and you’re good to go. The RMZ comes with the all these parts as standard, and we’re told that Suzuki dealers will be willing to offer all the help and advice necessary. At $12,490 + ORC it’s aggressively priced when compared to the competition on dealer floors, and in showroom trim there is not really anything much to be grumbling about. Sure a bigger tank would be handy, but let’s face it, would you actually use the extra size? Not having handguards as standard is certainly a miss, but for under $100 you’ve got yourself a sturdy aftermarket set that will last and look better than any OEM set ever will. If you’re in the market for a 450 enduro racer, we would certainly suggest the Suzuki RMX 450 Z as a worthy contender. n
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2015 SUZUKI RMX 450 Z
I WET WEIGHT: 124KG I PRICE: $12,490 + ORC (RRP)
CYCLE TORQUE LAUNCH
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FRAME TYPE: ALLOY TWIN SPAR
SEAT HEIGHT: 955MM
FUEL CAPACITY: 6.2 LITRES
FRONT SUSPENSION: 47MM SHOWA USD, FULLY ADJUSTABLE REAR SUSPENSION: ADJUSTABLE SHOWA SINGLE SHOCK
FRONT TYRE: 80/100-21
TRANSMISSION: 5-SPEED AND CHAIN DRIVE
REAR TYRE: 110/100-18
REAR BRAKES: NISSIN SINGLE DISC
ENGINE TYPE: LIQUID-COOLED 4-STROKE SINGLE CAPACITY: 450CC
FRONT BRAKES: NISSIN SINGLE DISC
2015 SUZUKI RMX 450 Z CYCLE TORQUE LAUNCH
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2015 SUZUKI RMX 450 Z CYCLE TORQUE LAUNCH
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2015 SUZUKI RMX 450 Z CYCLE TORQUE LAUNCH
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2015 SUZUKI RMX 450 Z CYCLE TORQUE LAUNCH
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IDEAL FOR MID-RANGE BIKES 240KMH SPEED RATING ACROSS THE RANGE EXCELLENT GRIP AT ALL LEAN ANGLES
Monster Instinct The unmistakeable Monster design is truly iconic handles make the Monster 1200 a bike that is capable of adapting to any occasion, so that you and means there is no limit to your enjoyment. can follow your instincts in every situation. The performance and fluidity of the new 1200cc second generation Testastretta 11° DS engine, To experience the unmistakeable Monster 1200, the versatility of the three Riding Modes, the visit your local Authorised Ducati Dealer and comfort of the adjustable seat and passenger book a test ride today.
IDEAL FOR EVERYDAY USE ON MID-RANGE BIKES Avon’s Roadrider combines outstanding performance with long life for a reliable everyday ride, making them ideal for a wide variety of bikes, including more traditional types. Rubber compound is specially formulated to give excellent road holding year-round and the central tread groove is designed to resist the ‘whitelining’ effect that can occur when riding over thickly applied road marker paint.
VISIT WWW.PROACCESSORIES.COM.AU FOR THE COMPLETE AVON TYRE RANGE
DUCATI 821 MONSTER CYCLE TORQUE TEST
Sweet Spot
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DUCATI 821 MONSTER CYCLE TORQUE TEST
The Monster 821 is perfect for those who want all the style of a liquid-cooled Ducati Monster without needing to go full tilt on power.
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DUCATI 821 MONSTER
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CYCLE TORQUE TEST
Sweet Spot N TEST BY NIGEL PATERSON, PHOTOS BY RYAN GRUBB N RIDING GEAR: SHOEI HELMET, FOX JACKET, GLOVES BY FIVE GLOVES, DRIRIDER BOOTS.
SIT UP, brace, sqqquueeze… emergency stops are one of those things, I’d pretty well done it before I realised what I was doing – trucks pulling out into your path from the kerb will do that. By the time the truckie realised I was there I had slowed to walking pace and he waved me around the front of his cab, while I was thinking how easy that emergency stop had been. The Ducati Monster 821 I was riding had done everything right and had stopped effortlessly – I’m still not sure if the ABS even kicked in - if it did I didn’t notice, which reflects how good ABS is these days. A successful emergency stop is one thing, it’s the unsuccessful ones which hurt and ABS can make a huge difference, which is why I’m pleased Ducati is fitting the technology to all its bikes these days. Not that the 821 Monster is a learner bike, more a step-up from the LAMS category, and a sweet step it is. It’s got the size and weight of the Monster 1200 without the fancy suspension, outright performance and hefty price tag - the 821 comes in at a very sweet $16,290 for the flat-black Dark model, while the red one is $16,790 and the white $16,990. The red and white versions get a passenger cowling but beyond that I have no idea why the white is more expensive.
In the shed
There’s Urban, Touring and Sport models, which you can cycle through on the go using the buttons on the left switchblock. Urban cuts power to 75hp and gives a gentle power delivery, excellent for commuting and wet weather. Touring offers up the full 112hp, but with a moderate throttle response - sport unleashes the throttle, giving you full horsepower and the snappiest response.
The design of the new Monsters, is aggressive and muscular. The compact tubular frame is a highlight nestled under the 17.5 litre fuel tank and the engine is Ducati’s latest generation of Testastretta II.
Each mode also has pre-sets for the ABS brakes and Ducati Traction Control - so the ABS and traction control will kick in earlier in Urban than Touring, and even later in Sport mode.
The 4-valve per cylinder engine makes 112hp and nearly 90ft-lb of torque, and it’s controlled through a ride-by-wire throttle and different modes you can set through the fancy dash.
However, one of the most attractive things about the new 821 is the way you can configure the power, ABS and traction control yourself. If you want all the horsepower available for your commute, you can set urban to full power. If you Continued on next page Continued on next page
DUCATI 821 MONSTER
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CYCLE TORQUE TEST
Engine is central to chassis integrity.
want to pull wheelies easily, turn off traction control in sport. And if the bike is sliding around corners enough for you, adjust the DTC…
Action stations In traffic the 821 is easy to ride. It has a great riding position, which has you sitting ‘in’ the bike rather than ‘on’ it. It’s very much like the Monster 1200 in this respect rather than say our sweet little Monster 659, which tends to push taller riders, like myself, towards the tank somewhat. The bike has a very nice note from the standard mufflers, and it’s very hard to fault overall in city riding. Plenty of power, great brakes, sweet sound, comfy, slick gearbox etc. And the fly-by-wire works well too. It tours easy too, for all the reasons I just listed. Sure, sustained high speeds and luggage capacity is not s strong point of a Ducati Monster but in the old days we put something like a Ventura rack and bag on the back, a tank bag and a backpack and you were set. Same for commuting too.
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In the twists the bike is a hoot to ride. The riding position lets you hang off nicely and the width of the handlebars is a strong point for aggressive riding on our roads. I remember riding a 1100 Monster a friend owned a few years ago and it bounced from bump to bump. I loved the engine but it was a handful on rough roads. Not so the 821, or the 1200 we mentioned
either. Both are a lot more compliant than you might expect. If I could fault anything it would be a slight ‘slackness’ in the throttle. You don’t notice it around town or even when riding sensibly but if you are having a crack you seem to have to wind the throttle more than you would expect to rev match the engine on down changes. That said it’s something you quickly get used to, it’s a minor thing many people probably wouldn’t even notice.
Nige’s View All this translates to heaps of fun. Sure, there’s not as much power as a 1200 Monster, but that’s OK - where the big bike can be a bit brutal and harsh, the 821 is graceful and smooth. It can still launch off a start with ease and speed. It can still pull massive wheelies, it can still be taken to tracks for ride days. And you’ll save at least three grand by choosing the 821. The 821 Monster is a little lighter, smaller and more manoeuvrable than the 1200, as well as being significantly cheaper. It’s sweet to ride, fun to throw through corners and has Ducati’s style and presence. n Continued on next page
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DUCATI 821 MONSTER
I WET WEIGHT: 205KG I PRICE: FROM $16,290 + ORC (RRP)
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CYCLE TORQUE TEST FUEL CAPACITY: 17.5 LITRES WATCH VIDEO NOW
SEAT HEIGHT: 785-810MM
FRONT SUSPENSION: 43MM USD TELESCOPIC
FRAME TYPE: TUBULAR STEEL TRELLIS
REAR SUSPENSION: PROGRESSIVE LINKAGE WITH MONOSHOCK
FRONT TYRE: 120/70-17
REAR TYRE: 180/60-17
ENGINE TYPE: LIQUID-COOLED V-TWIN CAPACITY: 821CC REAR BRAKES: SINGLE 2-PISTON CALIPER
TRANSMISSION: 6-SPEED AND CHAIN DRIVE
FRONT BRAKES: DUAL BREMBO 4-PISTON CALIPERS
DUCATI 821 MONSTER CYCLE TORQUE TEST
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ROO
HOODY
STREET - STYLE - SAFETY
The Roo Hoody is made from our own revolutionary RoomotoTM protective fabric. The Roo Hoody includes a zip closure trimmed with an easy to use puller. Its sleeves include a thumbhole cuff, welted hand pockets, and adjustable hood.
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CYCLE TORQUE BIKE STUFF
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Winter Gear 1
3
2
Kabuto RT-33
1 COMBINING Kabuto’s ACT EVO R shell technology and a fog-free Max Vision face shield with tear off posts, you have the RT-33, Kabuto’s latest track-ready helmet. With the same Wake Stabiliser technology found on all Kabuto helmets, makes it as equally at home on the track as it is on your favourite back road. An SAF-W quick change face shield offers comfort and ease of maintenance. Wake Stabiliser controls airflow and offers stability. The Top Air Ventilation System takes in air at a high velocity through the front and pushes hot inner air to the outside. Lightweight shell is combination hyper glass fibre and high-strength organic fibre for increased strength. Max Vision shield system includes Pinlock posts. It also has Coolmax removable and washable cheek pads and interior liner. Price: $550 Available from: Better bike shops More info: 1300 885 355
Like a rocket
Beaut balaclava
2 THE Oxford Clava is made from a combination of two materials for ultimate comfort featuring Oxford polar fleece. One size fits all and there are six different designs. Price: $29.95 Available from: Good bike shops More info: www.ficeda.com.au
3 DRAYKO is releasing their second pair of cutting edge jeans, the RAZZO, which means ‘Rocket’ in Italian, and the very latest in design. They have a relaxed, comfortable fit, with Razzo’s aged denim designed to look worn without compromising safety. The Razzo has extra-large pockets on front and back, detailed stitching on the knees, an extra utility pocket mid-thigh and detailed panelling on the rear to define the different direction and grain of the denim. Drayko Razzo has the soft knitted lining with Dyneema® the World’s Strongest Fiber™ and Kevlar® lining covering the crash zones. Price: $289 Available from: Good bike shops More info: www.dragginjeans.net
CYCLE TORQUE BIKE STUFF
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Winter Gear 4
5 6
Handy Blizzard
WFX Skin (Lady)
4 The structure of this women’s winter glove is mostly made of leather complemented by fabric insets. Knuckle and finger PU shell for protection. Hipora® breathable-waterproof membrane. 180g Thinsulate™ lining. Comfort and easy-on/off thanks to its single adjustment strap. Leather palm. Synthetic leather palm and thumb reinforcement. Excellent fit. Discreet laser printed FIVE branding. Shape adapted to the form of a woman’s hand. Price: $125 Available from: Good bike shops More info: 1300 885 355
Bella business
5 LADIES shape with high quality top grain leather with double-stitched outer construction. Padded reinforced shin protection plus lined inner ankle cup and heel protection. Stretych panels front and rear for comfort with a zip/velcro flap closure plus “raised heel” style. Hipora 100% waterproof, breathable membrane with vented lining. Oil resistant/non-slip rubber sole for good grip. Price: $179.95 Available from: Good bike shops More info: 1300 885 355
6 BARKBUSTERS have just what you need to keep your hands warm this winter. The BBZ fabric handguard features stylish fabric design, lined with a waterproof membrane. They can be fitted to almost any handlebar set-up and they flex around fairing/windscreen at full steering lock. Ideal for faired Sports and Touring motorcycles. An anti-flap design is self-supporting under wind pressure and leaves controls free of interference. Offering maximum cold weather protection they can be fitted independently or over Barkbusters backbones. Price: $119.95 Available from: Good bike shops More info: www.barkbusters.net
cycletorque.com.au MAY 2015 I 64 WINTER COLLECTION 2015
WINTER COLLECTION 2015
REVENGE » 100% Breathable/Waterproof Membrane
AIRBLADE PRO
M
OT
OD
VISUTEC » Hi visibility yellow and black styling
en
M
RY
17995
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$
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» Genuine YKK quality zips
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AIRBLADE PRO (LADY) » Ladies cut & fit
» Same specs as mens
$
22500 Available for
VELOCITY
» ‘Reissa’ 100% Breathable/Waterproof Membrane
» ‘Reissa’ 100% breathable / waterproof membrane
OD
» Removable / washable quilted liner
URBAN
» 600 denier heavy duty construction and twisted twill
Available for
en
Available for
24995
$
» ‘CE’ armour shoulder and elbows
» Built-in Panasonic ear bud headphones.
22500
» Air Vent Cooling System (Zippered)
» ‘Reissa’ 100% breathable / waterproof membrane
» Removable “Dual Liner System” 1. Water proof 2. Thermal winter
$
» Removable/Washable Quilted Liner
DAYTONA
» CE approved elbow & shoulder armour (removeable) & HDF Back Protector
» Cool ‘airflow’ safety mesh and 600 denier heavy duty polyester
» ‘CE’ Approved Body Armour Shoulder/ Elbows and HDF Back Protector
M en
OT
JACKETS
» 3/4 Length Design for Winter Comfort
W om
M
» 600 Denier Heavy Duty Constructions
» 600 Denier Heavy Duty Constructions
» Removable / washable quilted liner
» 4 External Air Vents (Cooling System)
» CE approved body armour and HDF back protector
» 600 Denier heavy duty polyester construction » ‘Reissa’ 100% breathable / waterproof membrane
PARIS JACKET (LADY)
» ‘CE’ Approved Body Armour Shoulder/ Elbows and HDF Back Protector
» Removable / washable quilted liner
» ‘Reissa’ 100% breathable / water proof membrane
» Internal security pocket
» Removable/Washable Quilted Liner
» Air vent cooling system front and back (zippered)
» Internal Phone Pocket and Wallet Pocket
» CE approved body armour and HDF back protector
» Heavy duty foam back protection
» Stylish ‘ladies’ cut & fit
Available for
20995
$
Available for
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15995
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$ M en
95
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249
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M
» ¾ length design for winter comfort
» 3/4 Length Design for Winter Comfort
TOLL FREE 1300 885 355
cycletorque.com.au MAY 2015 I 65 WINTER COLLECTION 2015
WINTER COLLECTION 2015
BOOTS
$
8995
en
Available for
PARIS GLOVES
RY
» High grade analine leather / textile combination
» HIPORA® breathable / waterproof membrane » Thinsulate thermal lining
W om
4995
$
en
» Night safety reflective
Available for
Available for
ARCTIC WINTER
19995
$
» High grade analine leather
» Hipora Breathable / Waterproof Membrane
» 100% waterproof / breathable HIPORA® membrane » Kevlar palm protection patch
6995
$
Available for
» Keprotec (by DuPont Kevlar) Palm Protection Patch » 3M Thinsulate™ Thermal Lining
5995
$
Available for
en
» Closure: Auto-lock Zipper and Velcro flap
» Quality Analine Leather and Textile Combination
M
» Lining: Waterproof and breathable inner lining (Hipora membrane)
DRY TOUR
en
» Lining: Waterproof and breathable inner lining (Hipora membrane)
» True ladies fit
7995
M
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» Night safety reflective
» Outer Shell: Durable, high tech ‘Top Grain’ Genuine Leather construction
en
Available for
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Available for
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» Carbon leather palm protection patch & carbon knuckle protector
» Protection: Molded Plastic Shin, Ankle & Plastic Steel Heel Protector
17995
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» HIPORA® breathable / waterproof membrane
BELLA BOOTS
$
M
» High grade analine leather
» Outer Shell: Durable, high-tech Lorica outer construction
» Closure: Auto-lock Zipper
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Available for
OD
$
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Available for
BLACK ICE
en
Available for
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95
Available for
SPORT
M
189
$
119
95
17995
$
» Carbon knuckle protector
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» Closure: Auto-lock Zipper and Velcro flap
$
RY
19995
» Thinsulate lined for extra warmth
» Removable liner
en
» Lining: Waterproof and breathable inner lining (Hipora membrane)
» Comes with black laces and extra Pink & Green sets to personalize your boots
M
» Protection: TPU shift pad & ankle/shin protector
» Lining: Waterproof and breathable inner lining (Hipora membrane)
en
» Outer Shell: Durable, high-tech ‘Top Grain’ Genuine Leather outer construction
» Outer Shell: Durable, HD Denim fabric outer construction
W om
TOUR
$
en
en
URBAN DENIM
» Closure: Auto-lock Zipper and Velcro flap
OT
» Air vent cooling system front and back
en
Available for
» Lining: Waterproof and breathable inner lining (Hipora membrane)
en
14595
$
» Protection: Molded Plastic Shin, Ankle & Plastic Steel Heel
» 100% waterproof / breathable HIPORA® membrane
» Reissa 100% breathable and waterproof
M
OD
» Outer Shell: Durable, high tech ‘Top Grain’ Genuine Leather outer construction
M
Available for
»
M
12995
»
en
» Features: Lace system & ankle protector
SPEED
» Genuine high quality ‘Analine’ leather construction
» CE approved knee & HDF hip armour
M
»
M
» Lining: Waterproof and breathable inner lining (Hipora membrane)
$
Outer Shell: Durable, high tech Lorica construction Protection: Leather shift pad & ankle protector Waterproof and breathable inner lining (Hipora membrane) Closure: Ankle Adjustment strap and Speed lace system
»
BLIZZARD
» 600 denier nylon construction
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PANTS & GLOVES
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CYCLE TORQUE BIKE STUFF
cycletorque.com.au MAY 2015 I 66
Winter Gear
3
1 2
Upper half warmth
Hot stuff
1 THE new Five Gloves HGI Plus gloves offer powered heat, ideal for long distance rides in winter. Hipora breathable-waterproof membrane with 200g Thinsulate lining as well as the thermal insulating gusset keeps warmth inside the glove. Single control button for 3 heat levels. Zipper makes for ease of getting on/off as well as knuckle shells and palm sliders for added safety. Leather palm, Digital Pittard palm, index and middle finger reinforcement for better grip in winter. Reflective logo and strip for visibility. Hot stuff. Price: $349.95 Available from: Better bike shops More info: 1300 885 355
CitySport
2 THESE Citysport boots are made from high tech Lorica and textile materials with double-stitched outer construction and a lined inner ankle cup and reinforced heel/toe protection as well as shift pad. A nice touring fit with lace and ankle adjustment strap closure with Hipora 100% waterproof, breathable membrane and vented lining. Oil resistant, non-slip rubber sole adds grip with preformed orthopaedic/anti vibration foot bed for comfort Price: $145 Available from: Good bike shops everywhere More info: 1300 885 355
3 REDD Dog has a great range of pure wool merino tops and accessories to keep your upper half warm on those cold-climate rides. Redd Dog merino gear is designed and made in Australia, using only premium Aussie and NZ merino wool –perfect for cold climate riding. Redd Dog uses fabrics that have undergone extensive product testing and research, so you get riding gear with maximum warmth, minimum bulk, easy-care, long-lasting and looks great (on and off the bike). Crew neck and ½ zip style tops available for both men and women. Ranging in price from $99 - $199, in sizes S to 5XL for men, and 8-24 for women. Available from: Direct or shop 12 Gibraltar St, Bungendore, NSW More info: www.redddog.com.au
NAKED BIKES
UNCOMPROMISING KTM Dukes have only one aspiration - no compromises. This invariably means the best handling and best performance in their class. These genes can be found in all the DUKES, from the ultra-powerful KTM 1290 Super Duke R to the KTM 390 Duke. CHOOSE YOUR DUKE »
KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE » 132kW (180hp) of power » 144Nm of torque » Lightweight at 189kg
KTM 390 DUKE » 32kW (42hp) of power » 139kg Featherweight » 150mm wide rear tyre
KTM 690 DUKE R » 51.5kW (69hp) of power » KTM Powerparts fitted » Akrapovic silencer standard
KTM Group Partner
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CYCLE TORQUE BIKE STUFF
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Winter Gear
6
5 4
Travel stars
High tech Armaxion
4 THE Armaxion suit is made of abrasion and tear resistant Gore-Tex three-layer laminate with an upper layer of 500D Cordura fabric and a durably waterproof, extremely breathable Gore-Tex Pro membrane. Jacket and trousers have removable thermal linings and two-way ventilation zippers at the sides, back and thighs. With a non-slip KeprotecAntiglide panel on the trousers’ seat area, while the AirCushion system inside acts as a climate buffer dissipating condensation. With a soft neoprene collar, detachable neck warmer, as well as the water and windproof cuffs allow optimum comfort. The highly comfortable Rukka D3O Air protectors on the joints and in the back ensure high protection. Available in various sizes and colours. Price: Jacket $1160 Trousers $825 Available from: Innotesco More info: www.innotesco.com.au
Urban fit Ellie
5 THE RST Ellie jacket is a ladies urban fit designed to be worn on and off the bike. It’s made of brushed 300D brushed polymer with Sinaqua waterproof, breatheable membrane with removable thermal quilted liner. All seams are triple and double stitched using bonded nylon thread for maximum burst resistance. It also comes with detachable hood, CE approved armour for shoulders and elbows with a Level 1 CE approved back protector fitted standard. Price: $239.95 Available from: Good bike shops More info: www.monzaimports.com.au
6 TRAVEL Star GTX boots are top quality, featuring Gore-Tex membrane with water-resistant cowhide leather outer that doesn’t leak even in torrential downpours. They are easy to walk in with a comfortable interior and Velcro adjustment for the calf. They fasten using a sturdy zip covered by a long Velcro fastener. There is full ankle, shinbone protection, a non-slip rubber sole and a reinforced gear change pad. The Travel Star GTX Pro CE version is the more protective touring boot from Daytona and until recently, was supplied almost exclusively to police and special forces. The Travel Star Pro has full CE approval. Enhanced safety comes from a robust ankle protection system and a special open-cell foam padding. The shins are protected with an upgraded latex padded insert. The sole is reinforced and, like all Daytona boots, has a hot-dip galvanized steel inlay. Price: Pro version $560, Regular version $520 Available from: Innotesco More info: www.innotesco.com.au
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CYCLE TORQUE BIKE STUFF
cycletorque.com.au MAY 2015 I 70
Winter Gear
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2
Charge me up
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1 Made from fine merino wool and made in Oz specifically for Andy Strapz. With an extra 60mm, “over calf” length to poke out the top of yer boots and stop that uncomfortable rubbing. A terrific all day sock. Heels, toes and sole are reinforced and padded. Special Lycra stay up top completes a high quality sock. Sizes 2-8, 6-10 and 11-14 Price: $15 + postage, or 3 for $40 Available from: www.andystrapz.com More info: Ph 03 9770 2207
2 THE SJS Smart Start Charger is a multipurpose battery charger and jump start pack, capable of packing a punch and its available in three models. The SSC01 (400Amp) will start most vehicles to 4litre (4000cc). The SSCO5 (500Amp) will start most vehicles to 3litre (3000cc) diesel and 6litre petrol, the SSCO6 (600Amp) will jump start the Tardis, just kidding, it will start most vehicles to 4.5litre diesel and 7litre petrol. Each has its own carry case with heaps of contents such as jumper leads, wall charger, car charger, USB and interface adapters. Price: SSCO1 (pictured - phone not included) $109, SSCO5 $139, SSCO6 $199 Available from: Good bike shops More info: www.kenma.com.au
Trust the Finns
3 IF ANYONE understands riding bikes in cold weather it’s the Finns. Rukka has developed the Vigleco Gore-Tex thermal gloves made of a mix of material: elastic textile fabric for great fit, top quality leather for optimum protection. There is reinforcement at the knuckles and scaphoid bone area. Reflective piping adds improved visibility in the dark, and Velcro flaps at the cuffs make a secure fit. In the rain, a waterproof, breathable Gore-Tex membrane keeps the water out, and a practical wiper on the left index finger helps keep things in perspective. The glove’s double cuff prevents rainwater from entering the jacket sleeve ends. Sizes 6 to 14. Price: $290 Available from: Direct from Innotesco More info: www.innotesco.com.au
cycletorque.com.au MAY 2015 I 71
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CYCLE TORQUE BIKE STUFF
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Winter Gear 4
6
5
Heated muffs
Urban Denim
4 TRUE ladies shape and fit with durable and stylish H/D denim fabric with double-stitched outer construction. Tongue is reinforced with polyfoam padding for comfort with Hipora 100% waterproof, breathable membrane and vented lining. Oil resistant, non-slip rubber sole offer grip and preformed orthopaedic/anti vibration foot bed. Lined inner ankle cup and reinforced toe/heel protection and rear pull-up strap. Price: $119.95 Available from: Better bike shops More info: 1300 885 355
Warm, dry in the Tundra
5 THE RST Tundra jacket has real world touring features at a fraction of the cost. Made of Ballistic 1660 and Maxtex construction it features Sinaqua waterproof, breathable membrane with removable thermal quilted lining. The Tundra has CE approved armour in shoulders and elbows with a Level 1 CE approved back protector fitted standard. It also has a removable throat coat and zippered vents for year-round comfort. Price: $299.95 Available from: Good bike shops More info: www.monzaimports.com.au
6 These universal BOX’HEAT muffs will not only keep your hands warm, they will also provide protection from the elements. Heat is adjustable depending on conditions with a 3 position on-off switch (60%-100%). A full set of cables supplied to connect to the bike’s battery, no need for connection between the rider and bike. A homogenous internal heat is granted thanks to the resistances placed in each muff which has a red internal thermal ruffle to retain heat. Modern external tough fabric for longevity.They are easy and fast to fit with an anti-theft plastic collar. Price: $199.95 Available from: Good bike shops More info: www.ctaaustralia.com.au
CYCLE TORQUE BIKE STUFF
cycletorque.com.au MAY 2015 I 73
Winter Gear 1
2
Bummer of a ride!
Urban Leather
1 THESE high quality top grain leather boots with doublestitched outer construction are a great casual everyday fit and feature Hipora 100% waterproof, breathable membrane with vented lining. The soles are oil resistant and non slip rubber for grip as well as having a comfortable vibration free fit. They feature lined inner ankle cup and reinforced heel/toe protection with a rear external pull-up strap. Available in rustic brown and rustic black. Price: $129.95 Available from: Good bike shops everywhere More info: 1300 885 335
2 THERE’S nothing worse thanhaving frozen kneecaps, and not being able to feel your toes (or the gear lever for that matter) on those long, cold rides. Redd Dog’s got you covered – with a great range of Down-Under superfine wool and silk bottoms, which not only keep you warm, but feel great to wear: Light-weight, Winter-weight, wool or silk – when searching for super-warm stuff that goes UNDER your riding gear – Redd Dog is the one-stop-shop. For those with a sock fetish, Redd Dog also stocks a huge range of merino ride socks (half-boot, full-boot, thin and cushioned) – so no more excuses for numb toes. Redd Dog also stocks the ever-popular Aussie Lindner merino socks (from Crookwell) in both standard and loose-fits. Bottoms available in XS to XXL for men, and XS to XL in women, They range from $109 to $129. Socks available in heaps of sizes, styles, and in both boring and quirky colours, ranging from $15 - $40. Available from:Direct or shop 12 Gibraltar St, Bungendore, NSW More info: www.redddog.com.au
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CYCLE TORQUE
Touring Feature
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Bullets across Myanmar Fancy riding a Bullet across a country time forgot? N WORDS AND PHOTOS BY JAY KANNAIYAN
AN INDIAN army officer took a quick look at our stamped papers and motioned for the gate to be lifted. Noel, my Aussie riding buddy, and I had left New Delhi a few days earlier, battling northern India’s freezing winter conditions on a pair of kick-start Royal Enfield Bullet Machismo 500s. We finally stood within sight of our destination: Myanmar (AKA Burma). Many a traveller has made the journey to the border at Moreh, only to be turned away. If the Indian border officials didn’t think you’d be allowed into Myanmar, they wouldn’t allow you to exit. But things are different now. And after months of anxious planning and pondering whether to attempt this trip, we were almost there. Until a few years ago, crossing Myanmar overland with your own vehicle was prohibited. It took some enterprising individuals to sweat the paperwork and convince their governments to open the border
and allow travellers to enter. But there’s a heavy price to pay on the Myanmar side. Myanmar is now, technically, a democracy. But it remains military-dominated—paranoid with state security. And what do secretive states fear most? Independent travellers roaming the country, interacting with locals, and reporting to the outside world. As a compromise, overlanders are now allowed to cross the country with one major caveat—they have to be escorted by a government officer and a tour guide, along with a fixed itinerary following a pre-planned route. This isn’t my preferred style, but the opportunity to be one of the first to blaze the trail across this “virgin” country
was too tempting. Crossing the single-lane, iron Indo-Myanmar Friendship Bridge was a big moment. A continuation of my RTW journey without the necessity of flying—the de facto method for decades. Our guide, Michael, a philosophy graduate, was waiting. He showed us to Immigration, where the officers welcomed us with the gentle stamping of our passports. The atmosphere seemed relaxed as they wore lungis (a length of cotton cloth worn as a loincloth or skirt), marking an immediate change from pants-wearing India. Farther down the road were the customs house and our escort: a Toyota Continued on next page
CYCLE TORQUE
Touring Feature Land Cruiser Prado with driver, Mr. Win, and our government chaperone, Mr. Moon, waiting for us to begin the journey to the first big town, Kalay. While adventure bikers know that having an escort car can be a pain and detract from the experience, their intention was to make our trip as smooth as possible. They used a big flashing red light and siren to clear traffic, making us feel like VIPs, but out on the open road we were free riders. We could also ride up ahead as long as we waited before entering populated areas. And there was plenty of open road. The western part of Myanmar is quite remote compared to the south and east. With no tar roads until a few years ago, there were many tales of notorious mud jungle roads that mired vehicles. But the Indian government, in its bid to open trade with Myanmar and counter China’s influence, surfaced 100 miles from the border to Kalay. However, any chance of making quick time was slowed by more than 100 narrow wooden and iron bridges. Some were well maintained, others resembled those I’d traversed deep in the Amazon, with missing planks and exposed nails. A sane person would stop and inspect each bridge before crossing, but sometimes it’s just better to go, hoping for the best. We made it to Kalay in a day, then set off for Mandalay—a road far from Kipling’s romantic notions. The tar surface disappeared within a few miles, revealing baseball-sized rocks jutting from the hard-packed mud. Our Bullets bounced about; even though this heavy, retro classic isn’t designed for offroading, it can tackle almost any terrain. We were standing on footpegs for better control
cycletorque.com.au MAY 2015 I 76 and comfort but had to bow our legs around the 22-litre tanks. And just like in the Amazon when trucks inevitably came from the opposite direction, the road’s fine clay dust enveloped us, drowning our senses for several seconds and leaving a powdery residue everywhere. But in this primitive landscape, riding through virgin jungles, we were in adventure riding paradise. By evening we reached Mandalay. An inspection of the bikes revealed the road’s toll—frame fractures that would require welding. The Royal Enfield Bullet is not known for its reliability and there’s a certain charm to that. Our driver found someone to take care of it the next day. With frames intact once again, we cruised the city’s sublime, sun-dappled tunnels that lay beneath a canopy of tree-lined avenues. The Bullet is most comfortable when you’re cruising along in fifth gear. The deep, Continued on next page
Myanmar bridge adventures.
Forest roads everywhere.
CYCLE TORQUE
Touring Feature
Stunning mountain views throaty note of the exhaust of this single-cylinder, torquey machine reverberated in my brain and the throttle felt connected to my thoughts. It was on the road to Bagan that we had the chance to sit with a farmer and his family. Sipping green tea and eating sweet sticky rice, it did not feel like, nor did it seem to be, a pre-arranged government PR stunt. Although the presence of our escort may well have had an influence, the warmth and hospitality of the farmer and his family felt genuine. It’s striking how northeast India seems to have more affinity with Myanmar than the rest of continental India. Perhaps it’s understandable given the relatively arbitrary nature of modern political borders. But the real cultural border between India and Southeast Asia lies in Siliguri, the narrow neck that connects mainland India with the northeast, squeezed between Bangladesh and Nepal. In Myanmar and across much of Southeast Asia, the people are welcoming and strangers are often offered tea and food. Yet, unlike much of Southeast
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Inlay boat Asia, now largely “discovered” by tourism, Myanmar remains a place of gentle and resilient people. Isolated from the rest of the world by five decades of military rule and civil war, who knows how long this may last. In a few years Myanmar may also be “discovered,” and maybe then the locals will become more wary. If Bagan is any gauge, hope remains. Bagan is Myanmar’s tourist mecca and a place to marvel at the imperial legacy from the Eleventh Century. Thousands of pagodas dot this plain, many covered in gold leaf. Its grandeur is intense, emotional and deeply personal. As we caught the sunset that evening from atop one of the largest pagodas, spontaneous applause broke from the crowd when the last ray disappeared beyond the horizon. The next day we headed east and the road twisted tightly up and over the Shan Hills. Bullets are low on horsepower, but their balanced chassis makes for nimble cornering. Going uphill, sliding our butts off the seats, and leaning into corners is a movement
Floating gardens every biker learns to love, even if the Bullet wasn’t designed to be ridden like a sportsbike. Crossing the saddle of the Shan Hills, we had our first breakdown. Pulling in the clutch to drop a gear and overtake a truck, I felt its cable snap and go limp. Replacing the cable is no easy job on the Machismo 500, but since we were less than 10 miles from our destination, we opted to ride on without it. Our guides managed to keep the traffic cleared so I didn’t have to stop before the hotel (escorts do indeed have their uses!), and once there it was a quick fix thanks to the mechanics at Vintage Rides in Delhi, who’d prepped us for failures like this before sending us off. We swung south by Inlay Lake to check out the indigenous and ingenious floating gardens. Just like Lake Titicaca in Bolivia, locals have developed rafts from lake weeds, but here they’ve begun using hydroponics, growing vegetables off the weeds’ nutrients, which they now supply nationally. Continued on next page
CYCLE TORQUE
Touring Feature
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Yangon pagoda
Fishing the old way.
The impossibility of the golden rock.
Back over the Shan Hills and we entered Nay Pyi Taw, the new capital built 10 years ago. Like most planned capitals, this one feels sterile, filled with wide, multi-lane concrete roads almost entirely devoid of traffic. We were left stunned by a 20lane road in front of the parliament building. Ten lanes each side, with no cars. A sad demonstration of showmanship—no doubt a venue for military parades intended to signal the government’s disdain for Western sanctions—instead it remains a monolith of Myanmar’s squandered fortunes.
base, the pagoda possesses an immense spirituality. We said a customary prayer, walked around the base and then headed to 19th Street in Old Town for a night of barbecue meats and cold beer.
charged up the sides of minibuses, tankers and trucks—not lingering on the cliff edges longer than necessary.
Relegated to the heavily trafficked B roads, as bikes are banned from Nay Pyi Taw’s modern four-lane concrete highway to Yangon, I was thankful for a working clutch again. But we had to park them at Yangon’s northern edge—despite miles of fourwheel vehicular traffic, bikes are not permitted in the city. It took us hours to reach downtown, and we just made it in time to visit the Shwedagon Pagoda. Over 325 feet tall, covered in gold leaf, with endless candles lit by chanting devotees around its
After fetching our bikes the following morning, it was a leisurely ride east to Kyaiktiyo. Here we took the hour-long steep uphill climb in the back of a truck to Golden Rock—a massive boulder impossibly balanced on the edge of a cliff, covered in gold. When the sun came out from behind the clouds and lit up the rock in all its golden radiance, it was almost enough to make me a believer. On the last day we crossed the Dawna Range to reach the Thai border. And, just like in the far west where the road is yet to be paved, Noel and I had one last hairy ride. From Hpa’an, the road east is laden with trucks and tourist buses. This deteriorated road gave us a bone-rattling ride, which worsened in the mountains, becoming a gnarly off-road track filled with giant potholes. We
This thrilling ride made for a fitting end through this adventure rider’s paradise. We reached the Thai border and after bidding farewell to our escorts whom we’d befriended over the previous 10 days, we exited Myanmar. Noel and I high-fived as we realized we were among the first riders to cross this wonderful country from India to Thailand—and on Royal Enfields! Jay Kannaiyan is a motorcycle adventurer who in 2010 set off from Chicago on a three-year journey across Latin America, Europe and Africa that ended in Delhi, India. After the trip, Jay launched Jammin Global Adventures Ltd. and now curates motorcycle tours in Kenya, India, Mongolia and Myanmar. He also makes a mean chicken curry, apparently. You can find out more about Jay and his tours by visiting www.JamminGlobal.com n
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CYCLE TORQUE
Touring Feature People
cycletorque.com.au MAY 2015 I 80
Long Riders Prostate Cancer is a killer. Chris Dunne got it but fought back. He is inspiring others to do the same. Chris Dunne is the founder of the Long Ride. He started this as a means to heal himself. “I emailed a few clubs and all of a sudden I got a lot of replies. The first ride to Darwin had over 300 riders, all wanting something different. It was on that ride that I came to understand more about my 58-year-old body and that I also had a thing called a prostate that could one day kill me and that it was a major cause of death in males across Australia. When I got back I changed from the Royal Flying Doctor Service and started supporting the Prostate Cancer Foundation Australia. “The name was actually my son’s idea. I had said to him I’d had enough and I was taking off to Darwin. He told me to see if anyone else would be interested and if so just call it a Long Ride. That’s when I emailed the clubs.” The 2014 ride was something special. “The ride started with riders coming from all across Australia and riding to Uluru. We all came together at Port Augusta on the same date and
then rode to Coober Pedy then onto Uluru where we met the final riders from the NT.” His background is very Australian, especially for a young bloke from Newcastle. “I was born in Newcastle and served an apprenticeship as a fitter and turner then joined the Royal Australian Air Force back in 1973, completing 31.5 years in the RAAF then another eight years in the Reserves. A while ago while riding up to Townsville he thought a Long Ride would be the best medicine invented.
“I got to thinking that just maybe while doing a Long Ride, others might be interested in taking part. I thought that Townsville was possibly not far enough and that Darwin was more likely the halfway point on a Long Ride. Throughout this process, I also considered how lucky we are to have such great open spaces, friendly locals, and magnificent scenery to entice a bike rider. The riders who participate in these rides make friends for life and live to ride with great friends.” The Long Ride has been held almost yearly since 2007. Continued on next page
CYCLE TORQUE
Touring Feature People
cycletorque.com.au MAY 2015 I 81
Plenty of funds have been raised along the way
“We have enjoyed great success in raising awareness of prostate cancer and men’s health matters and it has been instrumental in changing the lives of many Australians for the better. However, once you do the Long Ride, you may not want to settle back into your normal daily grind to and from work, sports, the club, shopping etc, as riding the long distances we do, meeting new people and visiting new places, will change your viewpoint of what is really important to you. “I’ve found that the majority of riders find greater courage and freedom to tackle their daily lives with a fresh positive outlook of themselves and
others. The Long Ride is not just for men. It is for women as well, as it is the womenfolk who really look after our men, without their ladies most men would just fade away. The number of women riders, and also as pillion passengers, have made up about 25 per cent of total numbers on the last three rides. The number of other family members supporting fathers, grandfathers and uncles on the Long Ride has been impressive.” Meeting people along the way is a big part of the Long Ride. “We stop at many towns along the way, giving us ample opportunities to participate with the local community to raise more donations for the PCFA. Riders from South Australia and the east coast do their own thing before we all meet up together for the last ride into our destination. We make our own life stories along the way and then make even more together.”
“Over $800,000 has been raised for the PCFA. My wife Gail does most of the admin work and puts in big hours talking to over 400 people in the course of a week to get them settled and fixed for the ride. All of the funds are directed to the PCFA.” The majority of riders know of someone with prostate cancer, a loved one or a friend. “Those who have had prostate cancer and those with prostate cancer do make up a large percentage of the riders but the majority have not had prostate cancer but want to help make a difference and get the awareness of prostate cancer and men’s health issues talked about in the home. We need to get men off their bums to get a health check regularly and not just for prostate cancer. Get a 49 point check and let your family relax in knowing that you have your health under control.” n
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LIME GREEN
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• Easy to use 649cm3 liquid-cooled, fuel injected, parallel twin engine
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PEARL CANDY WHITE
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METALLIC RED
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LIME GREEN
QUAD TORQUE TEST CFMOTO X550 ATV, U550 (AND LE) UTV
cycletorque.com.au MAY 2015 I 83
Beefing up the midrange It’s when you do the little things right that you inevitably see success as the outcome. WHEN we got the chance to check out the latest ATV and side-by-side offerings from CFMoto it was an added bonus to be able to put the vehicles through some serious paces at the Werribee 4X4 training ground in Victoria. And put them through their paces we did. It was my first visit to this training facility and it had some seriously gnarly inclines, creek crossings and twisted rocky tracks. I was particularly interested in how the new side-by-side would stack up in this kind of territory. And it seemed quite appropriate too as it seems there is a noticeable trend towards side-by-side vehicles over ATVs as farmers look to safety and value for money in tough times. ERG, the official supplier of retail data for the motorcycle and ATV industries, shows side-by-side vehicles represented 14% of the total market in 2013 which grew to 19% last year, demonstrating a considerable shift in consumer behaviour. I can understand why farmers would like the excellent carrying capacity in payload and people as well as doing it in more comfort. Obviously there is a distinct safety difference with a UTV with seatbelts, factory approved roll cages (ROPS) now fitted as standard. But there are a lot of other less readily visible things like the steel brake lines,
hydraulically assisted tip-tray levers, two-year warranty, competitive pricing, lights, blinkers and horn as standard and many other things that add to that “value for money” equation. With a 16% market share in the UTV segment and growing, CFMoto has begun to beef up its model range by launching a 500cc UTV with the new 2015 550 models. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves, let’s look at the basics. The entry level U550 offers a beefy 500cc 38hp liquid-cooled Bosch EFI engine, hi-low range, Canadian CVT transmission and a fully fitted roof, tow kit and alloys as standard. The U550 LE offers the same as its entry level partner but comes standard with electronic power steering (EPS), a heavy winch and windscreen and is available in four colours. Continued on next page
QUAD TORQUE TEST CFMOTO X550 ATV, U550 (AND LE) UTV To celebrate the launch CFMoto is offering all purchasers of a U550 LE $750 protector bars for their new vehicle for free (valid till June 30.) I took the U550 across a few really deep rocky creeks as well as some extremely steep inclines. This machine has a huge amount of grunt for a 500cc powered vehicle and it will tackle just about any incline in 4WD mode. The X550 ATV has had a complete style overhaul and the engine has been redeveloped for improved power and performance. The X550 offers powerful 500cc 38hp liquid-cooled Bosch EFI engine, hi-low range, CVT transmission, engine braking and electronic power steering as standard - just as well, because it goes like a scalded cat. Industry colleague Mark Fattore doubled me around the Werribee circuit and I can’t say that I could discern the engine struggling even slightly with us two-up on it. Of course all these units have selectable 2WD/4WD drive modes, L-H-N-R range with lockable diffs and independent front and rear suspension. Again you get the two year factory warranty, heavy duty winch, tow pack, front and rear racks and alloy wheels standard. To celebrate the launch and Australian partnership with oil giant Motul CFMoto is offering a $750 Ag Pack on new purchases till June 30. The Ag Pack has ATV storage box, four litre of Motul oil, CFMoto helmet, CFMoto wet weather gear, front and rear brake pads, Uni filter, oil filter, fuel filter, CFMoto cap and polo shirt and heavy duty ATV cover - good value. So, who is CF Moto? The company is a major global producer being the largest exporter of ATVs and UTV’s in China and they’ve been around for more than 20 years. The company’s global distribution network also covers Europe, north and south America, Canada, Africa and China. Based in Hangzhou, China, CFMoto has a workforce of 1600 producing engines, vehicles, spare parts and components with a staggering 25% of its workforce dedicated to research and development. CF Moto has been in Australia since 2009 and has sold more than 10,000 vehicles here since then. Last year CF Moto expanded into New Zealand with its range of ATVs and UTVs. Continued on next page
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QUAD TORQUE TEST CFMOTO X550 ATV, U550 (AND LE) UTV
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Many people are probably still unaware that in 2013 CFMoto announced a strategic partnership with global motorcycle manufacturing giant KTM. The deal sees small capacity KTM motorcycles built by CFMoto for the largest motorcycle market in the world, China. The deal also sees CFMoto and design giant Kiska, who are heavily involved in designing KTM motorcycles since the early 90s collaborate on the future design of CFMoto vehicles - a big investment in the future. CFMoto is distributed in Australia by Australian owned motorcycle company Mojo Motorcycles since 2009. Established in 2004 Mojo Motorcycles is one of the fastest growing motorcycle companies in Australia. The U550 is a competitive $11,490 ride away while the LE version is $12,990 ride away. The X550 is $8,790 ride away. n Tester: Dennis Penzo Photographer: Stephen “Tuffy” Tuff Manufacturer: CF Moto Models: X550 ATV, U550 UTV More info: www.cfmoto.com.au
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SHOP TORQUE
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Port City HarleyDavidson opens HARLEY-DAVIDSON customers in Port Macquarie are rejoicing with the opening of Port City Harley-Davidson. The new venture located at 1/172 Lake Road, Port Macquarie (Ph 02 6581 5222) has the backing of one of the most experienced motorcycle businesses on the NSW coast - the Beaton family of North Coast V-Twins fame. North Coast V-Twins is an MTA-award winning business that has been servicing the motorcycle community of Coffs Harbour and surrounding areas since 1989. General Manager Karissa Beaton says the new Harley specific outlet was inevitable. “Sixty per cent of our Harley-Davidson business has been coming from the Port Macquarie area for many years,” she told Cycle Torque. “This decision has been in the back of our minds for almost 10 years so it’s been a long time in coming,” she said. In fact North Coast V-Twins had been offering exceptional service to its Harley customers for many years. “For years we’ve been doing weekly runs to Port Macquarie to pick up customer bikes for servicing,” she said. “They are such loyal customers and we wanted to make sure we gave them the best possible service, so I suppose this new venture is just a natural extension of that.” The new shop sells new and second-hand Harley-Davidsons, has full workshop facilities with all the special Harley tooling, as well as all the accessories, apparel, merchandise and basically, everything Harley. “Head technician and service advisor Garth McIntosh is the Harley guru in residence. He is very highly respected in the industry and Harley owners can feel confident that their
machines are getting the best possible attention,” Karissa said. You can learn more on www.portcityh-d.com.au If you’re the owner of other vee twin machines like Ducatis and KTM’s you can still get all the expert service and advice from the friendly North Coast V-Twins crew on (02) 6650 4200 or check out their website www.v-twins. com.au You will also find them on Twitter @NCVTwins, Facebook North Coast V-Twins, Instagram @vtwingrinner and Youtube as North Coast V-Twins. n
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MOTORCYCLE BRANDS IN THE COUNTRY VICTORY & Indi� MOTORCYCLE ARE EXPANDING! With the introduction of the acclaimed Scout, plus more new product on its way we need the best and most experience motorcycle people to join our team at the a number of our factory owned flagship stores.
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CYCLE TORQUE STORE
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AS SEEN ON CYCLE TORQUE TV
1. Essential guide to Motorcycle Travel – $55.00
This book is written to help motorcyclists prepare themselves and their motorcycle for travelling long distances over extended periods. Whether you are getting ready for a weekend trip beyond your home turf, or for a transcontinental odyssey lasting several years, Coyner’s book details the fundamentals for riding in comfort, safety, and convenience.
2. Welder’s Handbook – $37.50
Step-by-step techniques are fully illustrated to help you use the latest welding technology to join everything from mild steel, aluminum and chrome moly to magnesium and titanium. Whether you’re building a race car chassis or an airplane fuselage, or learning to weld as a trade, you’ll learn the proper techniques to get the job done right.
3. Adventure Motorcycling Handbook – $39.95
Every red-blooded motorcyclist dreams of making the Big Trip - the Adventure Motorcycling Handbook is the comprehensive manual to make that idea a reality. Timbuktu to Kathmandu or Patagonia to Mongolia - it’s all here.
4. 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.
5. Dreamracer DVD – $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.
6. That Near-Death Thing – $22.99
A life-affirming journey to the heart of the world’s most dangerous race, this account gets inside the helmets of four leading motorcycle racers as they battle fear, fire, and family tragedy for a gritty sort of glory.
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7. 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.
8. Dominator in the Shadows – $23
Dominator in the Shadows is Peter J. Uren’s second novel, and the sequel to his popular The Old Mechanic. Set three years later, it tells the story of two men who each have a dream to own their chosen motorcycle: one a Vincent Black Shadow, the other a Norton Dominator 650SS. The story again takes the reader through the process of restoring an old classic motorcycle. Along the way, they maintain, repair and service many classic British motorbikes.
To Order Call 02 4956 9820 Shop online at www.cycletorque.com.au
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10. Cafe Racers: speed, style and ton-up culture – $69.99
Master photographer Michael Lichter and motorcycle culture expert Paul d’Orleans visually trace cafe racer motorcycles from their origins in the mid-twentieth century all the way into modern times.
11. How to Troubleshoot, Repair and Modify Motorcycle Electrical Systems – $49.99
Your one-stop manual for every aspect of DIY motorcycle electrical repair and modification. We’ve all stood at the front desk of a repair shop at some point, staring at an invoice, gritting our teeth and nursing our injured wallets. All vehicles will inevitably need maintenance - and we pay a premium in labour fees every time we take them in - but unlike an automobile, which has its electrical components hermetically sealed within its bodywork, the electrical components on a motorcycle are on display for all the world to see. Out in the open, they are constantly subjected to destructive elements like rain, sand, salt, dust, and ultraviolet rays.
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12. This Old Harley – $34.99
A roll down memory lane is a lot better on the back of a Harley. We all have “firsts” in our lives - our nervous first date, our euphoric first concert - and most of us who have motorcycling in our blood remember the first time we saw a Harley-Davidson. Harleys have a way of catching the eye, that extra ‘something’ that sets them apart as the proudest, baddest, best-built machines around. There’s no denying the fact that Harley-Davidsons are more than just motorcycles; since its founding in 1903, the make has become an American icon revered around the globe.
13. Terry The Tramp – $24.99
See what it takes to lead men who count themselves among the one percent.Terry “the Tramp,” born in 1947 to a broken middleclass home and an absentee father in the blistering agricultural region of southern California, grew up with a violent chip on his shoulder. Raised in that tough-as-nails environment, he developed the courage to look right through a man twice his size and read his level of weakness to discover his breaking point.
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14. Dualsport Australia Vol 2 – $33.00
Dualsport Australia’s presents Vol-2 Central NSW which follows on from Vol-1 Northern NSW, in the Hunter Valley before heading North, West then South on Dualsport Australia’s quest for a national trail. Vol-2 Central NSW has over 2500km of GPS/Routesheeted backroads, broken up into four regional loops. Combined there is a week of diverse adventure riding or you can customise loops for shorter rides. With two ways between towns there is an easier option but all routes suitable for all adventure bikes. Using the same easy-to-use format as Vol-1 with information on conditions, fuel distances, fuel locations, accommodation and a few stories from previous rides. With links to Google Maps, downloadable GPS data and printable route sheets in two different formats (forward and reverse) makes navigation a breeze and gives plenty of options to customise Central NSW to fit your adventure.
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15. BMW Cafe Racer – $49.99
Covers the evolution of the BMW sports bike to the BMW cafe racer. This title commonly associated with the cafe racer scene, the growing trend of custom BMW cafe conversions is illustrated in detail with images of sporting, racing, and ‘cafed’ BMWs.
16. 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.
To Order Call 02 4956 9820 Shop online at www.cycletorque.com.au
CYCLE TORQUE STORE
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1. Motocross and Off-Road Motorcycle Setup Guide – $34.99
For many motorcyclists, the most popular part of a cycle magazine is the question-and-answer section dealing with maintenance, modification, and setup how-to information. The Motocross and Off-Road Motorcycle Setup Guide eliminates guesswork by providing setup and maintenance information every rider needs in a series of step-by-step photo sessions and to-the-point chapters.
2. MOTOCOURSE 2013/2014 – $89.95
The World’s Leading Grand Prix and Superbike Annual reaches its 38th year as the indisputable leader in its field, covering the world of motorcycle racing like no other publication. The 18-race MotoGP season is covered with its usual meticulous attention to detail as it also includes coverage of the Moto2 and Moto3 classes.
3. How to Tune and Modify Motorcycle Engine Management Systems – $39.99
From electronic ignition to electronic fuel injection, slipper clutches to traction control, today’s motorcycles are made up of much more than an engine, frame and two wheels, and just as the bikes themselves have changed, so have the tools with which we tune them. How to Tune and Modify Motorcycle Engine Management Systems addresses all of a modern motorcycle’s engine- control systems and tells you how to get the most out of today’s bikes.
4. World On Wheels – $30.00
Travel the globe with Mike & Denise Ferris in the World on Wheels motorbike adventure TV series. From the Himalaya to the Andes via Turkey, Morocco and everywhere else in between.
5. Keep Moving – $29.99
7. At The Altar of the Road Gods – $29.99
6. 2010 Ducati MotoGP & Superbike – $59.99
8. TT Talking- The TT’s most exciting Era – $34.99
The idea to travel the world on a motorcycle did not ‘come out of the blue’ Monica’s husband Simon had this dream for 30 years. The opportunity to go arose after their three children had left school and home. Monica had a motorcycle licence but no mechanical skills and very little riding experience. She didn’t even have a motorcycle. At the end of a focussed year of preparation sandwiched between two busy jobs as a social worker she was more or less ready to go.
Through words and images we can relive the most exciting moments of the year, the 2007 World Champion Casey Stoner and Noriuki Haga and Michel Fabrizio in the Superbike championship. This emotional year is presented in a collectors edition which symbolises all the prestige of a marque that has written and continues to write some of the most exciting chapters in the history of world motorcycle racing.
His mother may not know it but Boris Mihailovic has lived a fast, furious, often politicially incorrect life chasing the epiphanies of speed (the sensation not the drug). For Boris, motorbike riding was the rite of passage into manhood he’d been searching for. Now, nearly 40 years since he first rode a bike, the wisdom of age has provided the perspective for Boris to look back and realise some pretty wild shit went down.
The decade between 2004 and 2014 was one of the most dramatic eras in the century-old history of the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy, which began with the races in decline, and many observers fearing that they would soon be killed off by a combination of rising costs, political correctness and logistical practicalities. But, just a few years later, the triumphant 2007 celebration of the races’ centenary launched the TT into a whole new era of public and commercial success.
To Order Call 02 4956 9820 Shop online at www.cycletorque.com.au
CYCLE TORQUE STORE
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9. The Cafe Racer – $34.99
The Cafe Racer is one of the most enduring styles of motorcycle ever created, capturing the rebellious spirit of the 50s. This book looks back at the glory days of the Cafe Racer, from Friday night dices on the North Circular, through the street specials craze of the Seventies, to the modern day revival.
10. How to Build a Chopper – $29.99
Choppers are hot again. All you need to decide is what style you want and this book will guide you through the building sequences. It shows how to build a genuine old chopper or a chopper that looks old and has the conveniences of today, such as electric start and functioning brakes.
11. American Dream Bikes – $75.00 SALE 25%OFF
Unappreciated by the world is the fact that in today’s elusive studio of motorcycle design America is a major player - for some, the major player. Dozens of designers, engineers and craftsmen are creating some
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of the most exciting and innovative motorcycles the world has ever seen - ever dreamed about. This doesn’t just mean “yet another chopper”. It means names like Confederate, Ecosse, Fischer, Roehr, Vectrix (producing an electric sportbike), and MotoCzysz in addition to, and no less worthy in this context, the establishment Harley-Davidson with Buell, Victory, and even Indian. Award-winning author Alan Cathcart visits 25 shops interviews the designers and engineers and rides the motorcycles. Each shop, interviewee and motorcycle has been photographed especially for this book.
12. Troy Bayliss – $24.99 SALE 25%OFF
This is the story of a life dedicated to racing, the story of a man who has always lived among motorcycles. The Ducati Yearbook chronicles the life of Troy Bayliss, Ducati World Superbike Champion through his memories and his experiences (on and off the track), his relationship with his team and with the bikes and the thrilling emotions experienced together. Take a look into the life of Troy Bayliss, his racing career and his passion for Ducati. Troy and the bikes from Borgo Panigale, like the 999 and 1098, together made
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history. This is a book of photography with images accompanied by the words of the rider, fellow Ducatisti friends, colleagues, family and fans all who came in contact with this Superbike legend a true icon for all passionate motorcycling fans, Ducatisti and non.
13. Lost on Earth – $29.99 SALE 25%OFF
“The only way I am coming home is by bike or by box,” Steve Crombie writes when he first hits the road, travelling 90,000kms from Australia to the Arctic Circle via South America. It takes him two years. He suffers from dehydration, starvation and disease. He rebuilds his motorcycle four times. Along the way Steve not only tests his limits but meets the world head on waking up behind iron bars in Tierra Del Fuego.
14. Motorcycle GP Racing in the 1960’s – $59.99 SALE 25%OFF
The 1960s was a unique era in the history of motorcycle Grand Prix racing, and arguably marked the last period of ‘traditional’ road racing. The decade saw the rise of the Japanese factories that would eventually dominate
the sport, and the burgeoning two-stroke technology that would go on to replace the traditional four-stroke machines.
15. The Castrol Six Hour Production Race – $39.95 SALE 25%OFF
For 18 years, the Castrol Six Hour Production Race was the biggest event on the Australian motorcycling calendar. Controversial, important and exciting, the Castrol Six Hour Production Race was one of those rare events which had bikes and tyres developed specifically to win it.
16. The Riders – $35.00 SALE 25%OFF
Australia’s love affair with motorcycle racing and its fearless heroes was meant to be. Two things have made it so enticing. The first is the inherent love of freedom, speed and adrenalin - that wild feeling of the wind whipping your face as you fight to take the machine as fast as it can go. The second is the ingrained Australian desire to test ourselves against the rest of the world - to be the quickest of all.
To Order Call 02 4956 9820 Shop online at www.cycletorque.com.au
We pay cash for bikes cycletorque.com.au MAY 2015 I 94
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TORQUING BACK
Letters Camera winner
I HAVE just been informed that I am a lucky winner of a Contour Roam 3 camera. I can’t thank the crew at Cycle Torque enough. I never win anything so this was such a surprise when I checked my inbox. Once again thank you to Ryan, Chris, Dennis and not forgetting Rebecca. Cheers Gang! – Rob Dixon
Bikes from OS
I WANT to say a huge thank you to Ivan and all the staff at Bikes Abroad, who recently helped me with importing an m/c engine from the U.S. They were fantastic, and I would happily recommend them to others. – Randal Wales Hi Randal. That’s great to know. I’ve personally imported a vehicle from overseas, in that case a car, and using the right people to organise it made it quite easy to do. It’s always a bit nerve wracking but a personal recommendation like yours always makes choosing just that little bit easier. Ed.
Something I noticed
I COMMUTE to work on a motorbike and drive a 27.5 ton concrete truck for my job. On my commute to work when I come to a red light, I filter to the front, then find that a few drivers want to get the jump on me and accelerate hard when the light goes green. But when I drive my truck, I come to a red light and find a few people take a long time to move off when the lights go green, maybe because they find this is the time to use the mobile phone instead of watching for the lights to change, and only move off when the traffic around them moves or someone beeps their horn to make them aware. Then the traffic behind doesn’t get their share of the green light. So back on the bike, the most annoying thing is the drivers that want to get ahead of me by creeping forward in anticipation of the green light, while the light is still red. Anyway that’s something I’ve noticed.
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Also I came to Cycle Torque to purchase The Old Mechanic and Dominator In The Shadows, both a great read. I arrived on my 2004 Ducati Monster, after the purchase, both Chris Pickett and Dennis Penzo came outside to look at my bike and talk bike stuff. So here’s these two bike journalist taking a time-out from their jobs to talk about bikes and look at my bike. I thought that was really cool and the two blokes must have a genuine passion for bikes. That was something else I noticed! – Phillip Boglev Hi Phillip. I’ve also noticed the red light creep as I call them and it. Car drivers certainly don’t like bike riders lane splitting. Many years ago while riding my Ducati Darmah, in 1987 in fact, I had a physical altercation with a driver who did not like the loud black Ducati edging in front of him at the lights during the morning rush. It’s been going on for years I guess. I also noticed you were a nice bloke when you came to buy those two books. Must of been the fact you were riding a Ducati. Don’t you meet the nicest people on a Ducati? Oh sorry, that could be a Honda slogan.
Write a Letter! WIN A GREAT PRIZE This month Phillip Boglev has won an Airhawk mid-cruiser seat for his bike, valued at $159. Airhawk seats make riding a lot more comfortable by putting a cushion of air between you and your bike. Check out www. airhawkguy.com for more information.
Bargain buy
Great mag and kudos on your Retro Torque reviews. Pleasantly surprised to read the review of the Suzuki SV1000 on the last page of your April issue. You described me to a tee, as a buyer of my SV, staying clear of Ducatis and TLs due to their known or perceived faults. My ’03 SV1000S, complete in it’s “Rust” Bronze livery, is the best smiles for dollar bike that I have ever owned. She’s a keeper. A bargain buy at $5 grand, she came complete with a full two into one Yoshi system, under tail, rear hugger, rear seat cowl, bronze screen, and a barely run in 17000km motor. For anyone thinking of a V-twin, I concur with your conclusion that the SV ticks a lot of boxes and is well worth consideration. Keep up the great work. – Mark Oakes Hi Mark Glad you agreed with my thoughts, the SV is a great motorcycle, very underrated. It’s a funny thing with perceived faults in bikes, especially Ducatis. I own a number of the Italian thoroughbreds and love them. Sure, they might take some extra fettling but I think the perception of unreliability, especially in modern or belt drive models is greatly exaggerated. You also mentioned the TL Suzuki. I saw a TL1000R yesterday. Now they are a horn motorcycle. Ed. n
Send your letters (and/or great bike pictures) to The Editor, Cycle Torque, PO Box 687 Warners Bay, NSW 2282 or email chris@cycletorque.com.au
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CREDITS
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cycletorque EDITOR CHRIS PICKETT chris@cycletorque.com.au
MANAGING EDITOR N I G E L PAT E R S O N publisher@cycletorque.com.au
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