Cycle Torque July 2012

JULY 2012 : PERSONALITIES, TRAVEL, QUADS PLUS MORE BIKE TESTS

RE U T A E F F F U E ST K I B R E T N I MASSIVE W

AXIS PORTS MOTORS F KX250

O R P I SEM HARLEY

-DAVIDS

ON SOFT AIL SLIM

LAST CHANCE TO

WIN AN APRILIA RS4

CONTENTS

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 2

RIDDEN

REGU LARS 2013 HARLEYDAVIDSON

2012 DUCATI

38

28

YAMAHA

AXIS MOTORSPORTS

YW125 BEEWEE

KX250F TEST

4 16 18 20 21 22 24 26 50 60 74 78

STREETFIGHTER 848 TEST

SOFTAIL SLIM LAUNCH

44

TEST

68

NEWS PIT BITS SMALL TORQUE EDITORIAL GUNTRIP RACE TORQUE DIRTY TORQUE E-TORQUE BIKE STUFF USED & REVIEWED TORQUE BACK - LETTERS BOOK SHOP – SALE

FEATU RES

COVER PHOTOS: BY LOU MARTIN (HARLEYDAVIDSON) AND CHRIS PICKETT (AXIS KX250F)

62 TOURING FEATURE TIME TRAVELLERS

75 CT LONG TERM SHINERAY XY250GY-2

82 CT PEOPLE – TOM EDWARDS

84 MLADIN UNPLUGGED - PART 1

88 QUAD TORQUE TEST PARKLANDS ATV-UTV

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 3 APRILIA’S NEW

Arriving soon, for more details see your Aprilia dealer or visit

aprilia.com.au

*Offer available until June 30th, 2012 or whilst stock last.

NEWS TORQUE

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 4

GREAT AUSTRALIAN RIDE A GROUP of adventurous motorcyclists will be undertaking a charity ride for SIDS and KIDS (www.sidsandkids.org) in August this year. The route will be from Byron Bay (the most easterly point of Australia) to Steep Point, WA (the most westerly point of Australia). The ride will see the group leave Byron Bay on the 4th August and spend thir first night in Goondiwindi, turning right at Cameron’s Corner before heading north to Birdsville, west to Alice Springs past the big red rock and then down over the Gibson Desert towards Warburton, Laverton and ultimately to Steep Point, approximately 19-20 days later.

While this is a big challenge for the group it cannot compare with the everyday challenges faced by those in need of the charity the group is supporting... SIDS and KIDS is a notfor-profit organisation that provides professional free support to bereaved families and anyone affected by the sudden and unexpected death of a baby or child. They receive no government funding and rely solely on public donations. The group is aiming to raise $25,000, and 100 per cent of all monies raised will go directly to the charity.

So far 8 riders have registered, and a support vehicle and cameraman will be on the ride. Organisers envisage more riders to come on board in the coming weeks, and each rider is funding their own way, so no costs will eat into the funds raised.

For more information about the ride, contact details, route information, and for rider registration forms, go to www.greataustralianride.com.au or http://www.eventbrite.com.au/event/3460393129/eorg To make a donation to our very worthy charity – SIDS and KIDS QLD, go to www.everydayhero.com.au/the_great_australian_ride_2012. n

It’s not where you’re going, It’s how you get there!

NEWS TORQUE

SHIVER ME

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 5

DIRTY NUDA

GERMAN company Touratech has gone feral with a Husqvarna Nuda 900, building an enduro bike out of one, calling it the Nuda-X-Cross.

Aprilia’s 2012 Shiver Sport ABS is an exciting new naked on the market.

Featuring a 90 degree 750cc V-twin engine with 95 horsepower, the Shiver Sport isn’t shy of go forward grunt. It’s torquey too.

With ride-by-wire technology, three map modes, and a first-rate chassis it’s made to crank into corners, as well as take on traffic and trips.

The 2012 Shiver Sport 750 ABS model will be available in black or White and with an RRP of $12,990 + ORC. The first shipment is expected to have arrived by the time you read this. n

The bike’s first major race outing will be at this year’s Erzberg Rodeo. Every year, more than 1,500 off-road fans from all over the world set out to Eisenerz, a small village in the Austrian Alps.

Here, they take on the most extreme enduro challenge, and at the end of the day, only a handful of the competitors will reach the finishing line. It is not without good reason that the Erzberg Rodeo is one of the last adventures in which even the toughest men reach their physical limits.

With the Nuda-X-Cross bikes, a number of Touratech accessories were used, such as engine and radiator guards, hand protectors, off-road foot pegs and optimised suspension components.

“For example, we’ve fitted new Tracitive Suspension fork legs

by Touratech”, Lars Wurdemann, the race team technician, explained. n

NEWS TORQUE Motorcycling Australia calls for Parliamentary Inquiry THE Australian Rider’s Division of Motorcycling Australia (MA) and rider representative groups are calling on Premier Baillieu and the Victorian Government to initiate a Parliamentary Inquiry to review the scope and administration of the Transport Accident Act 1986.

Such an inquiry is long overdue, and will serve as an invaluable tool for identifying the critical shortfalls and weaknesses in how road safety measures and campaigns are developed and delivered to Victorian road users.

In addition to reviewing the Transport Accident Act, the inquiry should examine the equity of compensation paid to motorcyclists compared to drivers involved in identical cases.

The call comes in response to the recent Transport Accident Commission (TAC) advertising campaign ‘Reconstruction’ aimed at motorcyclists, which fails to promote shared road user safety whilst presenting negative and dangerous stereotypes.

Following the recent Parliamentary Inquiry into motorcycle safety, which shone the spotlight on the TAC and their practices relating to motorcycle safety, the recent campaign fuels existing concerns.

Rob Smith, Manager of the Australian Rider’s Division, says the failure of the TAC’s latest campaign highlights the need for an urgent inquiry into the Transport Accident Act. “While we cannot condone speeding, we are shocked and entirely disappointed that motorcyclists are once again being portrayed as reckless road users, even though quite clearly the driver who fails to give way is not identified as being at fault,” Mr Smith said.

“The onus of blame attributed to the rider would not apply if another car was involved. Such discrimination by a no-fault state owned insurance company demands review.”

The Australian Rider’s Division and rider representative groups are also calling on Premier Baillieu and the Victorian Government to establish regulations that govern the content and ethics of Road Safety campaigns in order the prevent misrepresentation or vilification of any road user group. n

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 6

BMW S 1000 RR SIDECAR VICTORY

AFTER a gap of 38 years, BMW Motorrad tasted victory in Round 2 of the Sidecar World Championship in Hungary when Jörg Steinhausen and Gregory Cluze rode their BMW S 1000 RR powered sidecar into first place on the weekend.

Between 1954 and 1974 BMW Motorrad riders captured 19 World Championships, a feat unequalled in any form of motor sport. It was Rolf Steinhausen, Jörg’s father, who along with his passenger Josef Huber ended BMW’s dominance riding their Busch-Konig outfit winning the 1975 Championship.

“The BMW S 1000 RR is a true high-performance bike with a very strong and reliable engine - that in itself was enough for me to make a decision. I was also excited about the history. BMW is the most successful factory in sidecar racing and was completely dominant until 1975, when my father arrived on his Busch-König. Of course it is a big challenge for our team to install this engine in a sidecar and try to make it work at World Championship level. The win in Hungary vindicates the choice, it was fantastic to achieve the win for BMW”, said Jörg. n

NEWS TORQUE Manx GP filling fast

GET Routed’s racer trip to the 2013 Manx GP on the Isle of Man is proving popular with Aussie racers.

A number of riders have put their hands up to do the meeting in August next year so it’s important if you want to go and test yourself on the Isle of Man circuit to get in contact with Dave Milligan from Get Routed ASAP. Only 20 bikes will be shipped directly to the Isle of Man where the Australian team will be equipped with a marquee for their machines. For under three grand you get your bike, spare wheels, some tools and your riding gear taken over. It doesn’t get cheaper than that.

Get Routed is also running a tour from mainland UK for riders wanting to check outT Old Blightly, with trips to the Triumph factory and the Sammy Millar museum just a small part of the fun. Then the tour will be off to the IOM to watch the Aussies race, including Cam Donald, tackle the 36 mile course.

Cycle Torque has secured two spots in the race container, we’ve even booked our accommodation. You should come along.

Call Dave on 03 9351 0612 or email dave@getrouted.com.au for more info. n

King of Nepean

ORGANISERS of Australia’s biggest dirt track title meeting are struggling with the huge number of entries they have received for KTM’s King of Nepean, set down for Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th July at Sydney’s Nepean Raceway.

As well as KTM securing the naming rights, all 15 other classes have also been sponsored guaranteeing prizemoney and rewards filter right down to the junior ranks.

2011 King of Nepean champion Marty McNamara from Gunnedah is back to defend his title but in 2012 will face stiff opposition from the cream of Australia’s best riders, including Michael Kirkness who is returning from three years racing in the USA as an AMA Pro Flat Track racer.

The feature events will be supported by many other classes of racing including Pro Lites, MX Open, Pro Open and Unlimited as well as Juniors and Sidecars. Racing will be held over two days with preliminary heats decided on Saturday. The finals racing starts at 10am on Sunday.

The Nepean circuit is Australia’s oldest dirt track venue. It is located on the Castlereagh Road at Agnes Banks, between Penrith and Richmond. n

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 7

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NEWS TORQUE

CLASSIC HONDA FOR 2013

ONE of the stars of the 2007 Tokyo Motorcycle Show was the radical CB1100R concept bike.

With old school race styling it looked awesome and many people around the globe hoped Honda would actually build one. Sources inside Honda are saying it could well be put into production for 2013, but possibly not as extreme as the concept bike, which always seems the case doesn’t it?

If the production version is reasonably close to the concept there could well be room for one in Cycle Torque’s stable. Now, which bike to sell to get it? n

Manufactured in Australia

by Rideworx T 02 4271 8244 Find what fits your bike at:

www.barkbusters.net

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 8

Husqvarna heaven

IF YOU’VE ever wanted a new Husqvarna then now’s the time. In Husqvarna dealers nationwide you’ll be able to get huge discounts on current models.

Savings depending on the model, range from $1500 to $2000. Check this out: TE 250 – $9,195, TE 310 – $9,995, TE 449 – $9,995, TE 511 – $10,295, WR 250 – $8,095, WR 300 – $8,795, TC 250 – $8,995.

All prices include GST but don’t include ORC. And you get a Husqvarna 3x3m pit tent valued at $695 thrown in for no extra cost.

Great deals, so visit your local dealer today. n

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CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 9

KAWASAKI celebrates the 40th Anniversary of the Z in 2012.

THE BIG ZED

A legend was born in 1972 with the release of the model that started it all, the Kawasaki Z1. Featuring advanced Kawasaki technology, the Z1 completely redefined the world of highperformance motorcycling.

During development its code name was New York Steak. The letter Z was chosen because as the last letter of the alphabet it represented the most extreme, and the 1 stood for number one in the world.

The Z1 was the first mass-produced sports bike to feature a DOHC, 4-cylinder engine – technology found only on factory racing machines or limited production sports bikes. Displacing 903 cc, the Z1 was not only the fastest production motorcycle of its era, its reliability and durability were equally impressive.

The Z1 became a huge sales success in its target

market of North America and also in Europe, and was equally successful on the race track. In Australia a number of riders, including Graeme Crosby rose to success on the back of their race results on Z900 and 1000cc machines.

The mighty Z1000 is still going strong, albeit a little sharper in the styling and power stakes.

To view the history of the Z, view Kawasaki Australia’s dedicated site at www.kawasaki.com. au/history-of-z. n

Cabestany Sherco

SHERCO has released a replica of the trials bike works rider Albert Cabestany has ridden to success in recent world championship events.

The new replica is based on features that Cabestany has tested and proven in competition.

The replica is powered by a 300 cc engine that is exclusive to this model and it is identical to the one used by Cabestany. The cylinder head and CDI are unique as is the new titanium exhaust header. It also incorporates a new engine stop switch that shuts off the engine in the case of a fall by the rider, along with low profile handlebars. The clutch and transmission assembly have also received updates. n

NEWS TORQUE

HARLEY ON FILM

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 10 A FILM produced by Australian actors Bryan Brown and Gregor Jordan will be shown at the Open Road Film Festival, a short film competition for professional and budding filmmakers.

The festival will also service as a launch to Harley-Davidson’s new 24 hour test ride program in Australia and New Zealand, which is also integral to the film competition.

Entrants will be challenged to adapt writer/director Gregor Jordan’s unfinished film-noir thriller The Queen of Hearts, which features a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Jordan has created an ending, it is now up to the film makers to come up with the beginning.

To help entrants make their films there are five $1,000 production grants available, as well as the opportunity to be mentored by Brown and Jordan. There will also be an incredible prize pool up for grabs for winning entrants, including a Harley-Davidson Iron 883 Motorcycle, a Canon EOS-1D C, and other Canon camera and lens packages.

Films submitted to the Open Road Film Festival will appear online at openroadfilmfestival. com for members of the public to cast their vote. A panel of industry experts including Brown and Jordan will also judge the film submissions based on film craft, storytelling and originality.

Brown explains, “The more opportunities for young Australian film makers, the more creative the Oz film industry can be. The Open Road Film Festival is fantastic because it has the potential to help new directors get noticed. The prizes are pretty good too.”

Jordan says, “This festival has a very cool exercise in film making at its heart - one ending and a thousand different beginnings. I can’t wait to see what people will come up with.” n

Be a Wildcard APPLICATIONS are now open for any Australian riders wishing to apply to ride as a Wildcard in the Moto2 and Moto3 classes at the 2012 AirAsia Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix at Phillip Island.

The 2012 Australian MotoGP will take place from 26-28 October, and the wildcards provide a fantastic opportunity for some of our best riding talent to perform on the world stage.

Any interested riders should complete and return the application form located at www.ma.org.au/forms by COB Friday 13 July 2012. n

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NEWS TORQUE ‘Foul mouth’ Herlings fined WORLD MX2 Championship leader Jeffrey Herlings has been fined and given a warning

by KTM’s Motorsport manager Pit Beirer after incidents at the GP of France and Portugal.

“While Jeffrey’s behaviour was unacceptable, we do understand that he was under pressure at the time and we hope that this will be a valuable lesson for him and will help him in his future as a factory rider,” said Beirer. Beirer added that the company felt the sanctions were necessary to send a strong signal to the KTM rider, but also to show respect towards the team’s wellrespected competitors in the championship.

Herling had an altercation with Arnoud Tonus during the French GP then abused Mel Pocock after the second moto in Portugal accusing the Brit of blocking him as he was being lapped. Tommy Searle passed Herlings for the moto win while he was being held up by Pocock.

“I realise that my behaviour was out of line and I accept the sanctions,” said Herlings. “I have to remember that I’m a role model for aspiring young riders and I should behave in a way that they respect me as a person as well as an athlete. Because of this I have asked KTM to donate the money from my fine to an appropriate children’s charity.” n

CCYYCCLLEE TTOOR RQ QU UEE J U LY LY 2012 - 12

NEWS TORQUE

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 13

POLARIS WINS 2012 RALLY TITLE POLARIS’ Cody Crocker has won the 2012 Australian Rally Championship - SxS Rally Challenge, winning 12 of the 13 stages at the recent Queensland round of the Australian Rally Championship.

Crocker now has an unassailable lead in the championship. “We were having a great weekend. The Polaris RZR did not skip a beat.

Then we had a puncture on day two’s longest stage, and lost over four minutes.” said Crocker.

There was another star among the dozen starters. On loan from Stone Brother’s Racing, V8 Supercars driver Tim Slade made a stellar appearance for Polaris, quickly learning the ropes and finishing tied for first on day two.

“What a blast! The grip and acceleration in the dirt was awesome! I want one!” said Slade.

“We did the pace notes drives in a Nissan Navara and got the fillings shaken out of our teeth. When we blasted up the same tracks in the Polaris, it soaked it up like a limo (laughs) - a limo that can take corners!” said Slade.

It was clear to Slade why the sport is growing so fast; “It’s great to see a class where you can win an elite national title in a vehicle worth 29 grand. We only used $200 in parts and fuel for the weekend!” said Slade. n

NEWS TORQUE HD dealer of the year HARLEY-Davidson Australia has announced the 2011 winner of the 2011 Dealer of the Year Award – Harley City in Brunswick, Victoria.

The inaugural award was introduced by Harley-Davidson across 200 dealerships in 15 countries to recognise the dealers with the best practices and performance. Dealers are judged across three main categories: dealership management, retail capability and business results.

Dealer Principle David Reidie said, “It’s a great honour to be named the first Australian Harley-Davidson Dealer of the Year and receive this level of recognition amongst the global dealer network. The award is testament to the hard work my team put in all year.”

The dealership will be awarded a bronze “Dealer of the Year” plaque for display and a personalised celebratory party for the hard working dealership team.

“We would like to congratulate David and his team for their exceptional effort and performance in 2011. We would also like to thank each of our dealerships for their continued hard work in contributing to the ongoing success of Harley-Davidson in Australia,” commented Derek Stringfellow, Harley-Davidson Australia and New Zealand Director of Sales and Network Development The Dealer of the Year Award will now be run on an ongoing basis. n

Watagan Rally postponed THE Yamaha supported Watagan Trail Bike Rally organisers have postpone the event due to rain.

The huge annual event was scheduled to take place on the weekend of June 23 and 24 but the event organisers from trailbikerallys.com decided it was in the best interests of the environment to postpone the event until August 18 and 19.

All entries will be transferred to the new dates in August. The Yamaha Watagan Trail Bike Rally will still feature: • Long and short loops fully arrowed with some great hill climb sections, prizes and giveaways, free camping on site, breakfast and lunch provided on Sunday. For entry details go to www.trailbikerallys.com.au or www.powersportcentral.com.au. Please note that entrants must hold a current motorcycle licence or permit and must ride a currently registered motorcycle. n

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 14

Ferris Injured AUSSIE Dean Ferris’ promising 2012 to mix it up with the guys.” season will be on hold for several rounds of the World Motocross Championships after several crashes at the GP of France in St Jean d’Angely.

ICE1RACING’S star recruit qualified a solid 11th place on the Saturday but crashed hard in moto one and then sustained a dislocated shoulder after being hit from behind in the first turn in moto two after which trackside medical staff worked for twenty minutes to manipulate the dislocated shoulder back into place.

“We were lucky to get the shoulder back into place quite quickly with the great assistance of the doctors and medics. I will have another check-up back in Belgium and then we can make a decision on when I can get back on the bike.”

“It’s really frustrating because my speed has been improving with every race and I have been battling with guys that have won GP’s. Hopefully this is only a minor setback and I can be back behind the gate in no time.”

“I was really looking forward to this race,” Ferris currently sits 18th overall in the said Ferris. “I watched here as a spectator MX1 standings after six of 16 rounds. n two years ago and now I was finally able

Frossard out for 2012

MONSTER Energy Yamaha’s Steven Frossard has succumbed to a knee injury and will miss the remaining rounds of the 2012 FIM Motocross World Championship.

position as it was obvious that Frossard was riding with pain and favouring his knee in right hand turns.

The 24-year-old Frenchman actually caught and passed current MX1 championship leader Antonio Cairoli at St Jean D’Angely’s French GP and would understandably fade back to seventh

before he can begin training again and five to six months for a full recovery and hopefully a resturn to the 2013 World Motocross Championship. n

Sure enough a scan on Monday with a specialist in Lyon confirmed that Frossard caught his foot on the ground Frossard had an aggravated meniscus during qualifying at Sevlievo, Bulgaria that was causing his discomfort so as a and immediately had surgery to remove result Dr Bertrand Sonnery-Cottet at the the broken anterior cruciate ligament Jean Mermoz hospital will replace the but after battling on throughout ligament with other material from the the season will now have a second lower leg. operation to replace the ACL ligament Frossard is expected to enter a recovery and fix a troublesome meniscus. and rehabilitation phase of four months

NEWS TORQUE

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 15

DOING IT IN THE DIRT, OLD STYLE IF VINTAGE offroad motorcycles float your boat then you can’t miss the Crawford River Classic to be held at the Heaven Vintage MX home track on July 14 and 15.

Competitors are again expected to travel from as far as Qld and Vic to be part of this spectacular weekend of racing.

The annual running of the Crawford River Classic event has become the premier race meeting on many competitors’ vintage motocross calendar.

Last year’s meeting attracted over 90 keen entrants.

State pride will see the NSW riders keen to keep the trophies in NSW. Trophy winners from last year’s Crawford River Classic were: Roy East Memorial Trophy (pre 65) Mike Weller NSW, John Hine Memorial Trophy (pre 70) Carl Blecher NSW, Geoff Eldridge Memorial Trophy (pre 75) Greg Bilton NSW for the third year Ray Ryan Memorial Trophy (pre 78) Justin Wiesmes NSW. The Trophies are aptly named after some of the most influential members of the Vintage Dirt Bike movement during its formative years and it is very appropriate that they are remembered annually in this way.

Heaven club invites anyone who has an interest in motorcycle racing to come to the circuit, located 3km on the Booral Rd 5km south of Bulahdelah off the Pacific Hwy. Entry to the complex is free.

This event has been designed specifically to encourage Pre 65, Pre 70, Pre 75 and pre 78 classic dirt bikes out of the shed and onto the track.

The Bulahdelah Classic Motocross complex includes a number of circuits – the grass track was specifically styled by Jim Pomeroy for the demands of Pre 65, 70, 75 & 78 racers and is fun for evolution and pre 85 bikes as well. It is a natural terrain, wide, fast and green track that all “suspension challenged” bikes will enjoy.

The following classes will be catered for on both days:

pre-65 all powers, pre-70 all powers, pre-75 125, 250 open, plus all powers, pre-78 125, 250, open plus pre all powers, Evo 125, 250, open plus all powers, pre-85 125, 250, open plus all powers, juniors, Ladies and fourstroke racing.

Recreational riding will be available on Saturday morning with races for the prestigious Trophy events on Saturday afternoon. Racing on Sunday will see 2 rounds of Heaven VMX competition completed.

Catering will be available for the event with a meal available on Saturday evening via pre order accompanied by some entertainment. Camping is available from Friday afternoon with upgraded facilities including toilets and hot showers. Plenty of fire wood on hand.

Motel & Caravan Park accommodation is available 5km from track in Bulahdelah. Motorcycle Swap Meet facilities will be available, so bring along any unwanted old treasures and do a deal.

Day and recreational MA Licences are available for purchase prior to event.

Saturday will see sign-on and scrutineering from 7.30 with recreational riding starting at 9.30 am. Trophy races will start at midday.

Sunday will see sign-on and scrutineering from 7.30 with racing starting at 9.30am with 2 rounds of Heaven VMX Club racing.

Any capacity bike is eligible for the trophy races (no riding up a class).

The Trophy races are: The Roy East Memorial Trophy (for pre-65), The John Hine Memorial Trophy (pre-70), The Geoff Eldridge Trophy (pre-75), The Ray Ryan Memorial Trophy (pre-78).

For all inquiries contact Heaven secretary Greg Scriven on 0407 970 388 or email heaven.vmx@gmail.com Check out www.heaven-vmx.com for more info. n

Courtney on track COURTNEY Hirst won the female event at the Manjimup 15000 MX event held in WA on June 1-3.

Bulldog Folding Trailers support Womens Moto X in Australia and gave away an FMT (Folding Motorcycle Trailer) to the best female of the weekend.

Courtney Hirst currently ranked number 2 in WA and the leader of the title with two rounds to go is ecstatic about her win and is very excited to get her hands on an FMT and is grateful for the generous prize.

She is hoping to get over East for the Australian Senior Womens championships and is planning on heading to the US in Feb 2013 if all goes to plan.

Courtney thanked FMT (Folding Motorcycle Trailers), Mandurah City KTM and Trac Rite Suspension for their support. n

Conondale Classic Motocross THE Queensland Vintage Motocross Club is hosting the Maxima Racing Oils Conondale Classic Motocross event over the weekend of August 4th and 5th with classes for all motorcycles from 1989 and older.

There will be great racing all weekend with Pre-1970, Pre-1975, Pre-1978, Evolution, Pre-1985 and Pre-1990 classes with full fields expected to line up for each race. 1996 World Motocross Champion Shayne King is expected to turn up to compete against local legends James Deakin, David Armstrong and a gaggle of other hard chargers.

Conondale is considered one of the ultimate motocross circuits in Australia and there will be camping, catering and hot showers available on the Saturday night. Contact qvmxsecretary@hotmail.com for more information. n

PIT IBITS PRICE AND KTM TAKE FINKE

HSE Motorex KTM Desert Racing rider Toby Price has taken out the 2012 Tatts Finke Desert Race in Alice Springs, clinching his second victory in three years at the prestigious event.

“It’s great to get that second victory and it’s one that I really wanted this year,” Price said. “All the hard work’s paid off, so I definitely have to thank HSE Motorex KTM for getting us out there – I’m stoked. It was just a lot of hard work and prep that we put in for this year.”

Price topped the Prologue in a time of 4:52 to start first in the 200 kilometre trek from Alice Springs to Finke and back.

In the first leg it was again Price who topped the field aboard the KTM 450 SX-F, arriving at Finke for the evening in a time of 1h57:55.

Price arrived in Finke almost five minutes ahead of closest rival David Walsh, while Todd Smith was near five minutes further behind in third.

Price’s return stage time of 1h59:07 gave him an overall time of 3h57:03 – over nine minutes ahead of Walsh and Smith.

HONDA PAIR FOR SUZUKA 8 HOUR

TEAM Honda Racing’s Wayne Maxwell and Jamie Stauffer will once again represent the Dream RT Sakurai Honda team in the high profile 2012 Suzuka 8 Hour World Endurance Race on July 29.

The pair competed in last year’s event, holding 4th position until forced to retire in the final hour of the race. Feeling like they have ‘unfinished’ business from 2011, the Honda team mates are looking forward to working together and taking on the 2012 competition.

“After last year Jamie and I definitely have some unfinished business at the track, we are excited to be returning this year and are planning to go back and finish well. We’ve been able to learn from last year and certain things will be

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 16 improved, we are looking forward to getting over there to do some laps during testing.”

JUNIORS TO BULGARIA

SIX riders have been selected by Motorcycling Australia to represent Australia at the 2012 Junior Motocross World Championship, to be held in Sevlievo, Bulgaria on 12 August.

Six riders have been selected to represent Australia in three classes. Egan Mastin and Joel Milesevic will contest the 125cc class, while Mitchell Evans and Hunter Lawrence will compete on 85cc machines. In the 65cc class Riley Dukes and Caleb Grothues will take on the world’s best.

BE A SUZUKI VIP AT PHILLIP

SUZUKI is upping the ante for the year’s Phillip Island round of the MotoGP championship from October 26-28. Using an all-new hospitality suite on Gardner Straight, you’ll be sure to miss none of the action and be in comfort doing so.

You’ll also get to meet Team Suzuki riders Josh Waters, Ben Attard, Brodie Waters, and Team Volvo Group Suzuki’s Robbie Bugden who will all be riding in the national support classes.

The three-day corporate tickets are priced at only $800 per person and are inclusive of track entry, parking and all meals and refreshments, including morning and afternoon tea.

AUSSIE DIRT TRACK TITLES

THE Taree Motorcycle Club is hosting the 2012 HONDA Australian Junior Dirt Track Championship on July 6-8 at the Old Bar Roadside Track, Pampoolah in NSW. There will be some great racing action so check it out. n

PIT IBITS AORC ENTRIES OPEN

ENTRIES for Rounds 9 & 10 of the 2012 Yamaha AORC are now open.

The event will be held at Conondale in Queensland on 28-29 July.

The form can be downloaded from the series website at www.ma.org.au/aorc and must be completed and returned by Friday 20 July.

The Conondale rounds will mark the penultimate weekend of the 12-round Series.

SPEEDWAY DATE CHANGE

A NEW date and venue has been confirmed for the 2012 Australian Speedway Sidecar Championship.

The rescheduled Championship will now take place at Kurri Kurri, New South Wales on the 2930 September 2012.

The two-day event will be hosted by the Kurri Kurri Speedway Club at Loxford Park. The individual Australian Championship will be on Saturday 29 September, with the Australian Best Pairs Sidecar Championship on Sunday 30 September.

The original qualifying field from May will contest the Championship

AIS TRAINING CAMP

MOTORCYCLING Australia is now accepting applications for the 2012 Women’s Development Training Camp for Motocross and Off Road riders, to be held at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) in Canberra, from 3-7 September.

The camp will cater for up to 10 elite female athletes and is targeted at riders who are achieving outstanding results at a State or National level.

The camp will run over five days and incorporate fitness testing, physical conditioning, cross training and AIS lectures on general sports science, as well as an on-bike training component.

Interested riders can download the application

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 17 form at www.ma.org.au/forms.

Applications must be received by COB Sunday 22 July and be addressed to: Laurence Miller National Development Officer Motorcycling Australia PO Box 134, South Melbourne Vic 3205 Fax: (03) 9684 0555 Email: development@ma.org.au.

RENT A HUSQVARNA FOR THE ISDE

The 99th International Six Days Enduro will be held from September 24-29 in Germany, and you can rent a ready to race Husqvarna for the event.

TE 250, 310, 449 and 511 four-stroke machines, and WR 125, 250 and 300cc two-strokes have been made available by the German Husqvarna importer, Zupin Moto-Sport.

The rental price of the bike includes transport from Italy to Germany, internal transport to the race paddock, the preparation, registration and insurance.

The motorcycles will be available in the paddock few days before race start.

Rental costs 1990 Euro for two-strokes, and 2190 Euro for the four-strokes. If you opt for the Service Package the cost is an extra 890 Euro. All prices are plus tax.

The service package provided from Zupin MotoSport will be the supply of spare parts and gasoline in the the paddock area, and the access to reserved areas at the check points where the riders will find technical assistance from the team, emergency spares, fuel and lubricants, plus refreshments.

Numbers are limited so you must book now to secure a machine, and it has to be done via the Australian Husqvarna importer, Paul Feeney Group at www.husqvarnamotorcycles.com.au.

For more information regarding the rental offer contact Zupin Moto-Sports directly at info@ mshag.com. n

$19,995

RIDE AWAY

MELBOURNE

NEWCASTLE

SYDNEY

1300 721 360

BRISBANE

MACKAY

DARWIN

www.victorymotorcycles.com.au Overseas model shown

PERTH

ADELAIDE

SMALL TORQUE MULTISTRADA EXPERIENCE A HIT DUCATI Australia hosted the inaugural Multistrada Experience on 25-27 May 2012. Over 85 Multistrada owners and 95 participants descended onto Mount Seaview on the Oxley Highway, a renowned riding destination, for some old fashioned Ducati fun both on and off the bike.

Warren Lee, CEO remarked on the occasion, “The inaugural Multistrada Experience has been a huge success. The Multistrada, thanks to its allroads design, is a motorcycle that inspires you to travel, explore and to seek new experiences including of course meeting and making new friends. Our weekend together was all this and more and, like everyone else, we can’t wait until M.E. 2013.”

GET SOME GROWL APRILIA Australia is offering Akrapovic slipon muffler with ECU re-mapping for all new Tuono V4R and RSV4 R customers, absolutely free.

Valued at over $1,600, the Akrapovic V4 Winter promotion promises that this configuration will certainly boost your performance and presence on the road no matter where you go.

The offer is for a limited time only, until stocks last, and does not include fitting or the Carbon Fibre exhaust hanger.

Drop in to your Aprilia dealer today.

AUSSIE TRIALS TEAM Australia’s team for the 2012 Trials des Nations in Switzerland on September 29-30 has been announced, with the men’s team consisting of Tim Coleman (VIC), Kyle Middleton (NSW), Neil Price (WA), and Boyd Willcocks (QLD).

Representing the woman’s Australian team are Ina Halls (VIC), Felicity Harvie (VIC), and Kristie McKinnon (NSW).

DUCATI AUSTRALIA AND QBE EMBRACE UNDER 25S LOOKING to the next generation of motorcycle riders, with thanks to QBE Insurance, under 25s can now enjoy a capped insurance rate of $1500 when purchasing a new or exdemonstrator Monster 659 ABS, Ducati’s dedicated motorcycle for the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMs).

“We don’t want any barriers to Ducati ownership, including Learner riders under 25,” said Warren Lee, CEO Ducati Australia. “The Monster 659 ABS is produced exclusively for Australasian learner riders and provides them with the ideal bike to learn to ride on thanks to a number of key features such as light weight, great balance, low seat height, rider friendly L-Twin power and torque, as well as ABS braking as standard. Now with thanks to QBE and their capped rate insurance for under 25s, younger riders have access to the exciting and fun world of Ducati for the first time through the 659 without insurance being the limiting factor.”

As with all new Ducati motorcycles, the Monster 659 ABS is covered by a 2-Year unlimited kilometre warranty and complimentary 24 roadside and emergency assist. n

LONG FLAT TOURING THE Long Flat Pub Run on November 23-24 will again be held at the Traveller’s Rest Hotel on the Oxley Hwy, 40ks west of Wauchope.

Entertainment and a bike show with plenty of camping on the river, but camping on the roadside and footpaths is prohibited.

For further information contact 02 49 335 998 or 02 65 87 4231.

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 18

SMALL TORQUE THE BIGGEST SALE

YAMAHA is holding its biggest ever sale in Australia. If you’re in the market for an ATV or an Adventure bike you must simply get to your Yamaha dealer pronto.

On the table is everything from cash backs, to free farm kits, ridiculously cheap finance, trick plastics, and performance mufflers. That’s only the start though, and while some of the offers last until June 30 this year (after Cycle Torque gets in your local bike shop) there are other deals which go on for longer.

Go to www.yamaha-motor.com.au/promotions/ all for more info.

NEW CRF

HONDA’S 2013 CRF250R has a number of updates to the powerplant and suspension to keep it competitive with the current quarter litre race brigade.

Recalibrated fuel injection settings have given the CRF250R a bigger hit and more response in the low-end and midrange New front and rear damping circuitry plus new fork springs with a stiffer rate deliver better bump absorption, improved tracking and more precise handling through those extra-rough sections of track.

The bike won’t be available in Australia until late 2012, and at this stage no price has been confirmed.

BLACK DOG RIDE

ONLINE registration is now open for the 2012 Black Dog Ride to the Red Centre.

The weeklong ride is a fundraising initiative aiming to generate community awareness around depression and suicide prevention, and to raise funds for the Black Dog Institute.

The ride departs from all major capital cities on Saturday 18th August, arriving in Alice Springs on 24th August. This year riders have the option of the day or overnight ride as well as the ride to the red centre.

This year’s Black Dog Ride marks the third year of the national fundraiser. In 2011, almost 300

riders raised $161,665 to assist the Black Dog Institute in implementing their Community Education Programs across Australia.

Ride founder Steve Andrews is hoping to raise $250,000 this year, eclipsing previous year’s efforts.

Ambassador Angry Anderson says: “Having dealt with depression most of my life and having made a decision years ago to be part of the solution not part of the problem as a basic philosophy to live my life by, I am proud to be an ambassador of the Black Dog Ride, and for any efforts to free sufferers from the grip of depression.”

Riders are encouraged to register immediately at www.registernow.au/bdr/ to avoid disappointment, as the number of Red Centre and Overnight Riders is limited.

For more information, see www.blackdogride. com.au or contact Hollie Azzopardi on 02 9279 0672, or hollie@stolenquotes.com.

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 19

XY250GY-2 MOTARD TAP FOR MORE INFO

ENDURO

GET YOUR COMPASS OUT COMPASS Expeditions is expanding its tours by including an epic 75 day ride from Cairo to Capetown in 2014.

“We are excited to be offering Africa as our newest destination as we, the owners of Compass Expeditions, have had a long time love affair with this incredible continent,” says Mick McDonald, director of Compass Expeditions.

Africa is an amazingly diverse and rugged continent that has drawn explorers and adventurers the world over for centuries and we are thrilled to be able to offer our clients a chance to be part of the adventure as we ride from the bustling, ancient city of Cairo to the exotic, far Cape. The ride follows the Nile south crossing into the Sudan, then Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia and finally South Africa.”

For more information on this incredible 75 day expedition contact 1300 887 327 (within Australia) or +61 3 5368 2113 (outside Australia) info@compassexpeditions.com or visit www. compassexpeditions.com. n

TAP FOR MORE INFO

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WWW.ZUMA.COM.AU (02) 4285 9400

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AUSTRALIAN EXCLUSIVE IMPORTER FOR SHINERAY

EDITORIAL

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 20

Road Grime

I’VE just returned from the trip of a lifetime in Australia’s red centre. I won’t tell you too much about it because that would spoil the full story in next month’s issue but something happened on the trip which really got my goat up.

Newcastle’s port – but it’s still a Labour stronghold. Old habits die hard. Every State election we get promised the roads will be fixed but it never seems During the trip I travelled around 2000 kilometres, with close enough to 800 kilometres of that dirt to happen, and because local councils have to pay for the lion’s share of road repairs it seems to be way down the to make crunching the exact numbers inconsequential. list, money being eaten up by other council ‘costs’. So, the We kicked off at Uluru and rode south to Adelaide, but it Federal government has washed its hands of looking after was when we were deep into South Australia that I got the most regional roads while local councils bleat they have no shits big time. It was when I realised that all the roads we money to fix them. If I’m wrong please feel free to write in had traversed were in pretty good condition, even the dirt and let me know how and why I’m wrong. roads. I got the shits because those roads made a mockery About 12 months ago I did an editorial specifically of NSW’s road conditions. mentioning the atrocious condition of the road from Can someone tell me why NSW’s roads are in such a terrible Bulahdelah to Booral on the Buckets Way. Well guess what, state, considering we have one of the smallest states in it’s no better. I wonder when someone will sue the council Australia, with one of the largest populations? for the road condition causing an accident. The authorities say you must drive to the conditions, and this is true to a Maybe it’s just where Cycle Torque is based in Newcastle. certain degree, but when does there become a point where Newcastle has always been a ‘blue collar’ town, a steel the government authorities are held accountable for being town. I know this because I grew up here – I have lived in part of the reason an accident occurred? other areas of NSW though – and did an apprenticeship in an industrial trade. Because of this most residents Just today I’ve replaced two fairly new tyres on my car seemed to vote Labor. It was always a Labor stronghold, which were both damaged by pot holes, and this is on top and I can remember as an 18-year-old being told to vote of the replacement of two others about 12 months ago.

Labor because, ‘they are for the worker’. Yeah right, things Luckily the rims were not damaged, but our long term might have changed somewhat in Newcastle – BHP shut Ducati Multistrada wasn’t so lucky, the front rim copping down years ago but the mining sector is booming just a hefty dent from such a hole. Imagine cruising along at up the road in the Upper Hunter and all the coal goes out

100km/h and having your front tyre blow out after hitting a pot hole. Mmm, not something any of us want to contemplate.

We have roads in NSW which are more suited to third world countries, and speed limits which are out of kilter with these conditions. If you drive on any freeways in the eastern states you are limited to 110km/h, despite the freeways generally being the best roads we have. In outback Australia there are some roads with a 130km/h limit, with many dirt roads at least 100km/h. There are plenty of roads though where the speed limit is well below what the road can handle, and roads where the speed limit should be lower because of the poor condition of it.

Once again I ask the question. Why is it when you ride north, south or west from NSW’s borders the roads seem to miraculously get instantly better once you cross the border?

It seems to me it’s purely financial mismanagement by the authorities we pay our taxes to. Late last year Cessnock Council had plans to charge concert promoters in the Hunter Valley vineyard area something like 50K per concert which would then go to fixing the roads in the area. This is an appalling strategy and thankfully never got legs but it’s one of the reasons why I really got the shits. Here I am in B_m F__k Idahoe, the middle of nowhere, and I’m cruising along on a dirt road which is in better nick than the tar roads where I live. Now that just doesn’t seem right does it?

– Chris Pickett

GUNTRIP

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 21

“MIND if I take a look around, try a few bikes for size?”

BLOKE WALKS INTO A DEALER…

There’s just the one member of staff in the showroom – and fair enough, it’s a wet Tuesday. He’s a fresh-looking lad of around 25, eyes glinting with enthusiasm, and is parked behind a desk with a phone in one hand and a pen in the other. He nods in my direction while making his call.

I get a full five minutes of wandering and am beginning to turn my attention towards an impressive-looking wall of accessories when the salesman finishes his call and looks me over.

“Anything I can help you with?”

“Yes. I see you’ve got a couple of ABC Blasters over there. I was looking for an R model with the trick-looking seat, ’bars and wheels. And that smart green paint job.”

“Good bike. Handle better, steer more easily and a bit quicker than the base model. If you’re looking for a Blaster it’s definitely the one to go for.”

Got one hiding somewhere?”

“Don’t think so.” He heads back to his desk and consults a computer screen. “Nothing in the warehouse … and it doesn’t look as if we’re going to see any more … nope, they’re being discontinued.”

“Any idea where I might find one?”

“Sorry.”

“Good thing though?”

“Terrific. I’m sorry they’re being discontinued.”

“Are they available on special order or anything like that?”

A smile. “You’ll be lucky.”

I fish out my bus pass and head across town. There, in the leafy northern suburbs I find what I’m looking for – except that the object in question is a vivid shade of yellow that could keep me awake at night.

I pour out my tale of woe to the lad behind the counter. He’s even younger.

“I think they’ve been discontinued,” he tells me. “There’s none in the warehouse … but we’ve got this one and we could do a good price on it.”

We chat some more but I go home disconsolate. I ring three more metropolitan dealers and speak to three more keen lads and conclude that my quest is a forlorn one.

“No mate,” says the first of them. “There are none – “ “Don’t tell me,” I break in, “there are none in the warehouse and no more coming.”

Another metro outfit has one advertised on its website, but this proved to be a wild goose chase as well: they’d sold it a fortnight earlier, so demonstrating the immediacy of modern computing.

My final chance dries up the following day: “Sold our last green one three weeks back,” says the last bright spark of this failed odyssey. “And I believe there are none left in – “ “The warehouse?” I offer.

“The country,” he says.

I think for a bit and decide, as an absolute last resort, to try the provinces. I go north first, to a shop I’d never heard of. A voice full of cigarettes and experience answers the phone, apparently belonging to a bloke

named Jim. “I’ve been told there are no more R-spec bikes in the warehouse and that it’s being discontinued.”

“Correct,” he says. “The R and the base model are being combined in a trimmed-down range. You won’t get that green in next year’s range, but I think you’ll find the other features you’re hunting in a reworked base model. It’s cheaper than this year’s too.”

“Interesting,” I say. “I wonder why no-one’s thought to tell me this before.”

THE INDIAN SALESMEN WERE UNHAPPY THEY COULDN’T PROVIDE BOB WITH HIS REQUIRED COLOUR CHOICE. “Give me your email address and I’ll send you the 2013 colour range,” “Ah. You’ve been looking for a bit, have says this champion of customer relations. you? Well, you’re unlucky. We only found “There’s no green but there’s a smartout the R was being discontinued at the looking blue you might take to.”

2013 launch a few weeks back. But the 2013 “Gee, thanks, Jim. I feel a bit daft being this base model has most of the stuff you’re insistent on a colour choice but it would be after.” nice to find something that won’t give me We talk about the 2013 range and the new nightmares.” colour choices.

“And why not,” says Jim. “After all, you have “They’re due in later this month, if you’re to live with it.” interested. They’re a good thing. I’ve had a couple myself and they don’t miss a beat.

Even with Jim’s words of wisdom and his The only problem I’ve ever come across is kindness in sending details of the 2013 range, I decide to take one last look for the that odd little vibration thing with the tacho original object of my desires. This time I go and that’s an easy fix. All you do is …” west and find myself talking to Brian, also Here, I was thinking, is a man I can do the possessor of a voice seasoned by a few business with. Which is how, gentle reader, years in the job.

I came to buy only the second new bike I’ve “No,” he says. “The R is being discontinued ever owned. Shiny, aren’t they? and there are none left in – “ – Bob Guntrip “The country.”

RACE TORQUE

Your move

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 22

issue is a significant one, which Rossi suffered in early 2006 with the M1 although it was the bike’s unreliability and crucial errors committed by Rossi that helped CASEY Stoner’s stunning retirement announcement will leave Australia hand the title to Nicky Hayden. without a representative in MotoGP for the first time in over a decade.

While Lorenzo may have concerns And while it will be some time before we see an Aussie rider when Stoner over the Honda’s current handling in MotoGP, Stoner’s decision also set off a race to secure goes, but I’m not woes, what he would be looking his saddle with Valentino Rossi and Marc Marquez the so sure. As fast as at is its advantage in acceleration prime candidates. After both Yamaha and Honda earlier Dani can be, he’s in the upper gears, which allowed dismissed any chance of Rossi returning to either factory been inconsistent Casey to dominate last year and team, Yamaha race director Jarvis and HRC have left that throughout his call upon when the Honda wasn’t door open. But when you think about the permutations, entire MotoGP handling so well. So to an extent, maybe Jarvis and HRC are both playing a high-stakes game career and is in Lorenzo faced the same question of chess to see which team Rossi signs for in 2013. And danger of becoming that Rossi faced when he switched maybe signing Rossi isn’t such a stretch if you look at it like the Luca Cadalora to Ducati; is it Casey, or is it the bike? this. of his era. Dani leading the charge against Jorge/Yamaha In the end, he has stayed with a package that he knows The thing that motivates Rossi most right now is salvaging has an air of inevitability about it, and the fact that Stoner and at the moment has the ascendancy. HRC will inevitably won on the Honda in his first year must’ve put a dent in solve the chatter problem, and there are still plenty of races his legacy, as his time at Ducati has significantly dented Dani’s standing within HRC. Rossi has won three titles with left in 2012 for Stoner or Pedrosa to chew into Lorenzo’s his standing as the alleged Greatest Of All Time. Jarvis Honda and that is something HRC cannot ignore, and he points’ advantage. picked up on this when making his statement about a has beaten Jorge for a title.

Dani has not.

Then there is the possible return when he said. “Valentino doesn’t need There’s been a lot written in the wake of Stoner’s decision, ascension of Marc Marquez. Cutting through the hype, he which was based on any number of reasons from the CRT money, he needs a competitive bike.” If Rossi did go to Honda, I believe he would have a better chance of winning is several years away from being a genuine MotoGP threat. rules dumbing down MotoGP to the leak to the Spanish a world title against Jorge Lorenzo than Pedrosa, and HRC Following recent reports that Dorna may dump its ‘no press from someone within HRC about Stoner’s nascent would be taking that into consideration. Le Mans showed rookies in factory MotoGP team’ policy, this nevertheless retirement plans that he was forced to deny. On the flip could smooth his way alongside Pedrosa…or Rossi. that when conditions allow Rossi to ride the Ducati to his side, Stoner has now won at every track on the MotoGP liking (because no-one can push the front in the wet) he While Jorge has re-signed with Yamaha, it is still possible calendar, delivered Honda its first title in the 800cc era and is competitive and hungry. Whether he has the hunger to that Yamaha could ink Rossi to replace the desperately out won on the Ducati that Rossi has so far failed to master in do it over the course of a full season in his 15th year of GP of form Ben Spies, but he would be the number two rider the most astonishing way. He has nothing left to prove. racing is the question. on a much-reduced contract. Crutchlow is a ‘possible’ and Speaking to MCN in the off-season about the CRT rules, Dovi is fast, but not Alien fast race in, race out. Just where When Stoner announced his retirement, Rossi was a few the die was cast. “I can’t ever see myself racing into the Ben would end up is anyone’s guess. seats down with his head bowed going through all the [CRT] era,” said Stoner. “If it’s not prototypes, then I’ll be permutations that Casey’s decision meant, knowing now Although Lorenzo is staying put, it is clear from his out of here. [Dorna] will lose a lot of people, definitely he would be a key player. After probably considering statement that he had a very serious offer from Honda that myself. I’m not interested in the slightest in racing modified retirement himself in his quiet moments, he promptly said he took to the negotiation table for them to at least match. production bikes. That should be the league you work your he would be around for another two years! In the absence “Yamaha made great efforts to retain me in the factory way through to get to where we are. It’s like Formula One of Stoner, only Lorenzo and Rossi have the ability to win team so I want to thank all those involved at Yamaha for switching to touring cars.” In a recent story in the Good a MotoGP championship and the team powerbrokers this.”

Weekend, Stoner signed off with this: “I don’t want to go, know that, hence HRC’s backflip which is a triumph of but there’s nothing left for me here.”

One wonders how seriously Jorge considered the Honda pragmatism over company philosophy. offer and what he really thinks about the bike, and whether – Darryl Flack Many believe Pedrosa will resume as HRC’s number one he could see himself winning on it. The Honda’s chatter STONER WILL CLEAR OUT WHILE THE REST BATTLE IT OUT

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 23

RS4125 Giveaway final PRINT.indd 1

3/19/2012 4:40:32 PM

DIRTY TORQUE

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 24 my sleep…and brushing my teeth with the helmet on proved a challenge. But I had to have fresh breath if I was going to swap stories with Everts so I pressed on and was trackside with pearly whites and breath that smelt like the Colgate factory.

Product review and preview by Smarty

For the next two days I had an absolute blast at the beautifully prepared Appin Raceway ripping around on the latest KTM machinery and got to literally bang bars with Everts…well, he was having some fun at my expense but who am I to complain…

From that initial weekend my new gear and I were inseparable. Over the next 22 odd months we tested the complete 2011 Husqvarna range with long term tests on the TE450 and TE310 as well as having the KTM 690R as a long termer.

I KNOW that most punters think we moto journos get riding gear thrown at us left, right and centre but I am here to tell you that it’s complete crap.

The Shift riding gear and Alpine Tech 7 boots that have appeared in the tests and articles that I have done for Cycle Torque are close to having their second birthday and the story behind them and how my new gear came about is worth telling.

Way back in July 2010 I got the invite via Cycle Torque to test the all new KTM 350 SX-F and the rest of KTM’s 2011 MX range. This was as well as the chance to ride sideby-side with 10 time World Motocross Champion Stefan Everts.

Once the gig was confirmed my immediate thoughts turned to my almost three-year-old M2R gear that was supplied by McLeods Accessories during my TeamMoto Racing days so I got on the blower to Cycle Torque’s head honchos to sort some new gear.

After several failed attempts at senior management level I decided to hit up the only guy among the head office staff with any real work ethic and it wasn’t long before

We have also ventured out on a 10-day moto tour through central Queensland where we rode a different track each day and the gear was only washed once or twice from memory. We rode all types of two and fourstroke berm busters and went through a full tank of go juice on an ageing RM125 to complete the perfect moto adventure.

Then we tested the entire 2012 KTM EXC range and just recently we banged out motos on the 2012 TC250 Husqvarna with the final ride being a full weekend’s test on the 2012 Husky TE310 where after getting into a bit of strife I literally melted the crutch out of the Shift nylons (don’t ask!).

The hours in the saddle with the Shift gear must amount to several seasons of racing and I am sad to have to move on as by the end they felt like an old set of Dunlop Volleys…honestly. Despite the on-track abuse and being thrown in the washing machine with the rest of my I flew down from Brisbane to Sydney for the KTM launch clothes there wasn’t a stitch out of place, they held their on the Friday night and when I opened the door to my colour really well and were looking good for a third year luxury suite in some swanky downtown sky scraper there of use…even the helmet still fits like a glove and is in very was a pile of brand new gear in their boxes and wrapping good shape. sitting right in the middle of the room…yeehaa!

Oh, here is a cracker: the Dragon goggles that I have been Thankfully all of the gear fit perfectly (for once Smarty using are almost five years old,that’s right, five years and told the truth about his waist line – ed) and I slept they are still in good shape except for the strap starting to remarkably well considering the fact that the boots kept get a little sloppy around the back of the helmet. getting caught on the sheets when I tried to roll over in Cycle Torque’s ad man Dennis Penzo had Monza Imports supplying a new set of Shift Nylons, Jersey, Gloves, Helmet and a set of Alpine Tech 7 boots for the KTM launch.

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 25

So, just a few months ago it was confirmed that I would head to Coffs Harbour to test the 2012 Yamaha WR450F and with the crutch out of my Shift nylons I got on the blower again to Dennis and asked for another set of gear.

Bingo, Damien Ballinger from McLeod’s Accessories came good with not only a new set of JT nylons, jersey and two sets of gloves, he mirrored that with a new set of FLY motocross gear, and a new M2R helmet with a new set of Dragon goggles – have I died and gone to heaven?

After two full days of riding I was rapt with the M2R helmet and JT gear while the Tech 7 boots are as you would expect, phenomenally comfortable as they enter their third year of abuse.

four sets of new goggles in less than a month. So far the goggles have worked a treat. Sure, I love my Go Pro but the goggles prove even a luddite like me can make great videos, so long as you have the right gear. So far all my videos have been of the MX and enduro type, but you never know what I might get up to in the future. Look out for one of my history making videos on www.cycletorque.com.au or on CT’s new iPad edition.

But that’s not all, former Queensland Motocross Champion Andrew Bailey from Pro-Accessories is going to supply a set of OzMoto Tyres for me to test on my recently acquired Husaberg FE650 while Ken Wieden Just a few days after I got back from Coffs I had a package from Dunlop has agreed to do the same. Finally, after 10 years of writing for Cycle Torque I have hit pay dirt! arrive from Chris Lynis from Moto National Accessories who has supplied the new ZAC Speed Exotec V.2 Body And as far as the Berg goes, for the first time since 1982 Armour with an integrated hydration system and two I have actually gone out and purchased a dirt bike sets of ZAC Speed ‘Menace’ goggles...unreal! with my own money. Sure, it is great getting different Then, Active Outthere sent me a set of their Liquid Image distributors handing over their latest and greatest to test and that will continue in the future but I got the desire HD Video goggles with tear-offs and the whole works. to buy something that would give me a stiffy every time I have gone from one set of five-year-old goggles to

I jumped on so after a lot of research and the egging on by my ol’ mate Mick Hansen I scored myself a very well looked after second hand 650 ‘Berg’. The 58hp at the back wheel did it for me.

So, in my humble little garage right now I have two sets of riding gear, one new helmet, the body armour, four sets of goggles and the Tech 7s all stuffed into my old trusty Shayne King hand-me-down OGIO gear bag ready to head off for a ride on the mighty Berg…fantastic!

So, stay tuned, I have a heap of rides lined up and I will be banging on this well-worn keyboard and getting the info out via Cycle Torque so that you get my honest opinion on how all of the above performs Finally, thanks to ‘The Penz’ and Cycle Torque with their loyal band of advertisers, life for Ol’ Smarty could not be better.

My next challenge to Dennis is for some ‘go-fast’ parts, surely we can get ‘The Berg’ to 65hp at the back wheel?

– Darren Smart

E-TORQUE

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 26

MOTOGP ANYWAY YOU LIKE IT

BY THE time you read this, I will be off travelling with my family, alas not by motorcycle. I’ll miss the two wheeled conveyances for a month, but one thing I don’t want to miss is any of Casey Stoner’s last season, so I’m glad I subscribed to MotoGP’s Video Pass earlier in the season.

My Full Season Pass gets me access to all the Grands Prix throughout the year, in high definition too, if I’m somewhere with the bandwidth to cope (I haven’t experienced that one yet).

races and qualifying, although you need to be careful of the digital channels, because they bounce them around depending on In addition to all the races, qualifying is included, how the bikes fit in with other programs. Apart as are press conferences, feature interviews from that, the broadcast is excellent: usually only and more. You can get a taste of these extras by one commercial break during the main race and logging in to MotoGP.com: some of them are increased coverage is fantastic. free.

Keeping up with MotoGP is also possible You can watch on your computer, iPad, iPhone, with the iPad and Smartphone App. MotoGP Google Play…

Experience offers live timing in the full version, There’s also videos about the teams, classic an onboard lap of each circuit and lots of races and more: it’s all pretty cool, although if statistics, live text commentary and more. money’s tight the free to air broadcast on the Ten If you’ve got the Video Pass you probably don’t Network is better than we’ve ever had - all the need the full MotoGP Experience App: there’s

a 99cent version which doesn’t have the live timing, but if you’re watching the race it’s debatable if you need it - I think it should be included in the video pass.

Watching MotoGP on a computer means you can use it like a digital video recorder, watching the important parts over and over, checking out races you might have missed, catching a lot more than you can get on TV. I think it’s the future of watching racing: at 99 Euros for the year, I think that’s a pretty reasonable price.

– Nigel Paterson

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2013 HARLEY-DAVIDSON SOFTAIL SLIM

Launch CYCLE TORQUE REPORT

CYCLE TORQUE CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 28

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 29

Drawing inspiration from the 1950s...

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2013 HARLEY-DAVIDSON SOFTAIL SLIM

Launch CYCLE TORQUE REPORT

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 30

...is Harley’s latest design, the

Softail Slim.

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 31

MORE

2013 HARLEY-DAVIDSON SOFTAIL SLIM

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 32

Launch CYCLE TORQUE REPORT

FOR the coming 2013 model year, HarleyDavidson is introducing the Softail Slim, a pareddown machine running on the Softail platform which draws its styling cues from custom bobbers of the 1950s.

n REPORT BY NIGEL PATERSON PHOTOS BY LOU MARTIN

The back end is the most visually striking aspect of the Softail Slim, its pillion-seat-free bobbed guard covering a spoked rim, skinny back tyre and minimalist lighting. Moving forward the seat doesn’t even reach the Fat Bob fuel tank while the ‘Hollywood’ handlebars, complete with cross-brace, are straight from the 1950’s bobber scene. Finishing the front end are fat covered forks and a laced 16-inch wheel.

Harley’s stylists have gone with black and polish for the Slim: there’s little chrome. The paint is either deep red, gloss or matt black depending on your choice, while the rims are black, the spokes polished.

The engine is a mix of black and alloy with chrome highlights.

So the styling is slim and the rear tyre is too, but at over 300kg the Softail Slim is still in the heavyweight category… but its low seat and centre of gravity belie to be sitting just a little further back. That might be this fact, and the Slim is one of the easiest of the big hard to arrange, but rolling the handlebars up a little Harleys to manoeuvre and ride. or switching them out for a set which made me reach forward a little more would be easy. After all, one of the big attractions of Harley-Davidson is the extensive In the saddle parts and accessories catalogue which lets you tailor Climbing aboard you realise just how very low the your bike to suit your taste in style, comfort, luggage leather saddle is. The handlebars aren’t far forward, carrying and even riding position. so you ride upright, but your feet go forward to the half-moon footboards, complete with heel-toe shifter. I would have liked to have seen Harley use a skinnier Overall the riding position is very compact, nearly too tank on the Slim, but at least by incorporating all compact for my 185cm frame: I would have preferred the instruments in the Fat Bob tank they’ve kept the

n RIDING GEAR: ZEUS HELMET, SCHOTT JACKET, MATADOR EQUIPMENT GLOVES, DRIRIDER JEANS, ALPINESTARS BOOTS.

handlebars clear of clutter. The big central speedo features a small LCD panel which can be switched through various modes including a tacho/gear indicator, clock and twin trip meters. There’s a fuel gauge built into the fake filler cap.

Behind the rider isn’t much: the guard and wheel, bullet-style integrated indicators/brake/tail lights and the number plate. The slim isn’t the first Harley to use this design, but I’m still impressed with the clean visual appearance you get when a central taillight unit is removed.

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 33

The grunt

it’s primarily due to that skinny rear tyre.

The 1690cc Twin Cam 103B engine shakes the bike Fat rear tyres might look better, but they don’t always work better, and you’ll be very happy about a lot when it’s kicked over, but the rubber when it’s time for new rubber, because a skinny mounts smooth it all out as the engine speeds tyre is a whole lot cheaper. rise, so it looks cool and retro idling at the lights, Typical of modern Softails, the suspension but leaves your fillings in place at the end of the performance is only reasonable. It copes OK day. The motor has excellent low and mid-range grunt, pulling away from a standstill with effortless with decent roads but if the road gets bumpy things get a bit uncomfortable - check out ease and cruising beautifully at highway speeds. the video attached to the iPad edition if you Top gear - sixth - has the big twin turning over get a chance, there’s a slow-motion on-bike effortlessly and comfortably, so it’s best to kick it piece where one of the riders in front of me back a cog or two for overtaking. hits a decent bump at speed in a bend. The Of course, if you want more power or torque, bike tracked safely through it, but the frame Harley-Davidson has the dealers and the parts to scratches the road and the rider’s arse gets a help you… little airborne…

Harley’s gearboxes have always felt a little Cornering clearance is also shallow, the agricultural - heavy and strong. Use a heavy boot footboards scraping way before you lose and everything works just fine; you’ll be rewarded confidence in other aspects of the bike’s with a distinctive ‘clunk’ with most changes, although as the day’s riding continued I noticed the handling, but at least they fold up and give you some warning that you’re soon going to be transmission was definitely getting easier, for the leaned over further than the maker intended. demo bike was not fully run in.

Stopping the Slim is a single disc at each end The standard exhaust system is bound to be which, if used together, will pull the bike up replaced by most owners. The shotgun pipes look quite well. The rear brake in particular is very nice and sound OK, but if you’re going to ride a good, offering a surprising amount of power Harley you’re also likely to want people to realise that, and a sweet-sounding pipe is the easiest way. and excellent feel.

Handling & Suspension By modern standards, the MU85 rear tyre (approximately the same as a 140-section) on the Slim is, well, skinny. It’s similar in size to the front tyre and, combined with its long wheelbase and lazy steering geometry, makes the Softail Slim one of the best handling Softails around. Gone is that fat-arse feeling of nearly all fat-tyred cruisers, the Slim turns in and holds its line so much better, and

The right price

A few years ago the GFC hit Harley-Davidson very hard, resulting the closure of subsidiary Buell and Hidden technology massive cost reductions to the company. Since then Harley has concentrated on using its knowledge to Although the styling is very retro, Harley has create new bikes which don’t cost the company a incorporated plenty of 21st-century technology.

The engine simply wouldn’t be the same without its fortune in Research and Development but keep the EFI providing the fuel, the unobtrusive ABS system model line fresh. making stopping safer and the alarm/immobilser The Softail Slim is a perfect example of this. Very making it more likely your ride will still be in your few brand-new parts, but it is a brand new bike. It’s garage tomorrow. also priced for a GFC-hit marketplace, going out the door at $26,995 ride away. n

2013 HARLEY-DAVIDSON SOFTAIL SLIM

Launch CYCLE TORQUE REPORT

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 34

SPECIFICATIONS: n ENGINE TYPE: AIR-COOLED V-TWIN n CAPACITY: 1690CC n TRANSMISSION: 6-SPEED n FUEL CAPACITY: 19 LITRES n FRAME TYPE: STEEL n SEAT HEIGHT: 605MM n DRY WEIGHT: 304 KG n FRONT SUSPENSION: TELESCOPIC n REAR SUSPENSION: SINGLE UNDERSLUNG n BRAKES: SINGLE 4-PISTON FRONT CALIPER, SINGLE REAR. n TYRES: MT90B16, MU85B16 n PRICE (RRP): $26,995

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 35

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1800 24 34 64

WE’LL BEAT ANY PRICE GUARANTEED*

Belt drive is clean and long lasting.

Torque isn’t an issue with the 103 cuber.

Room for ample sized bottoms.

Front brake is OK, back one is better.

Old school cockpit.

Twin pipes have a real custom look to them.

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2013 HARLEY-DAVIDSON SOFTAIL SLIM

Launch CYCLE TORQUE REPORT

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 36

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 37

Experience GSX-R performance at its fastest, lightest and most responsive. The all new Suzuki GSX-R1000 is back and better than ever with Brembo front calipers, super light pistons, upgraded crankcases, 4-into-1 exhaust with titanium muffler, increased power and acceleration with an impressive 2kg reduction in weight. To experience 136kW of pure GSX-R1000 performance, take a test ride today.

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CYCLE TORQUE TEST

2012 DUCATI STREETFIGHTER 848

Gain without pain

‘Less is more’ goes the old saying...

...and in the case of the new

Streetfighter 848 it’s probably true.

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CYCLE TORQUE TEST

2012 DUCATI STREETFIGHTER 848

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 40

Gain without pain DUCATI’S new Streetfighter 848 has all a rider could want. It’s got the look, the performance and the street cred. It might give away 250cc to its slightly older sibling the Streetfighter S but in the real world that matters little, if at all. This is the perfect scenario where the rider should buy the bike that suits, not just go for capacity and horsepower.

to suspension and subtle rolling stock and styling changes.

When you compare the Streefighter 848 and the 848 EVO the wheelbase on the EVO is shorter and camshaft alterations see the Streetfighter’s engine On paper Both the 848 Streetfighter and Streetfighter S are more suited to everyday use rather than racetrack very similar on paper. There are some differences, duty. Other than the camshaft and valve timing beside engine capacity, and this is largely down changes the engines are essentially the same. Two things we really like about the 848 engine is its wet

n TEST AND PHOTOS BY CHRIS PICKETT

clutch which is uncommon on modern Ducatis, but it works very well and seems to cope with abuse better than the dry clutches. It’s also got a 24000 kilometre major service interval. Forget the stories of well over $1000 service bills with the 848. Well they might be that expensive but at least they will be less often.

Marzocchi 43mm USD forks grace the front and as expected are fully adjustable. Likewise with the Sachs rear shock. Suspension settings are softer on the smaller Streetfighter according to Ducati. And check out that gorgeous single sided swingarm.

Every bike should have one we reckon. Of course

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 41 Brembo brakes are used, with the hefty 4-piston radial calipers proving they are more than a match for the Streetfighter 848’s speed.

Ducati Traction Control (DTC) comes standard, it has got eight levels.

Interestingly there’s no ABS fitted nor is there an option for it.

Riders keen to know exactly what’s happening with their machine will love the instruments. Besides the regular stuff, the rider can control the DTC, monitor their lap times if necessary and even have the dash tell them how hot or cold it is outside, just in case you can’t tell yourself. Seriously though, there’s more than enough information for whatever type of riding you wish to do.

Road rocket Most of Ducati’s naked bikes have a ‘sporty’ lean to the handlebars and the Streetfighter 848 is no different. We would prefer handlebars slightly higher, although the shape of the seat at the rear could then pose issues for rider comfort. It’s far from bad but in our opinion could be better.

The footpegs are rear set without being too high so there’s ample leg room for most riders. It’s an easy bike to ride, everything falls to hand and foot readily and it’s comfortable enough to ride through town to get to the good bits without you being shagged by the time the good bits arrive.

You can’t say the same about an 848 Superbike.

Yes it’s stiff but because it’s adjustable you can tame it somewhat. We rode the Streetfighter over some awful roads and came away fine. When you seek out prime pieces of swervery you will be amazed at how fast you can ride this bike. With 132 ponies (slightly lower than the 848 Superbike

and just over 20 hp down on the 1099cc ‘S’) it’s no slouch in the power department, pulling wheelies like no one’s business once you sort the right DTC position to let you experience said shenanigans. Its engine is one of the best you’ll ever sample, with just enough rumble to let you know you’re on a Ducati.

It’s ‘only’ wearing a 180 rear tyre too so never feels over-tyred. It jumps out of slower corners, and the big Brembos flatten the front tyre into the road easily. On paper it’s a slightly slower steerer than the ‘S’ and in the real world it does feel a little more stable, and has better road manners for it.

Not much upset the poise of the 848 other than the odd big bump. The same can’t be said of a friend’s 1100 Monster we rode recently which shook its head big time on a number of bumps.

The Streetfighter 848 was far better behaved on rough roads.

In tight sections of road you can change direction in a heart beat, pick it up if you need to and pitch it back in with a bit of counter steering – it’s very nimble. At 169kg dry it’s very light and it shows when you are riding it. On fast open sweepers the only issue will be you trying to hold on at go-togaol speeds due to a lack of screen; the bike will cope no problem, you might find it a tad more difficult though.

n RIDING GEAR: OGK HELMET, M2R JACKET, ARLEN NESS GLOVES, DRAGGIN DRAYKO JEANS, ARLEN NESS BOOTS.

Verdict With the Streetfighter 848 you pretty much get all the power without the pain of the 848 Superbike. It’s more bike than most riders will ever tame, especially on the road, and we think it would make a fantastic track day bike too. We have ridden the 1099 version of the Streetfighter on the track and we think the 848 could well be better due to its friendlier engine and slightly more stable steering.

At $, it offers reasonable value for money but an awful lot of ability. n

CYCLE TORQUE TEST

2012 DUCATI STREETFIGHTER 848

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 42

SPECIFICATIONS:

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 43

n ENGINE TYPE: LIQUIDCOOLED V-TWIN n CAPACITY: 849CC n TRANSMISSION: 6-SPEED n FUEL CAPACITY: 16.5 LITRES n FRAME TYPE: TUBULAR STEEL TRELLIS n SEAT HEIGHT: 840MM n WET WEIGHT: 199 KG n FRONT SUSPENSION: 43MM MARZOCCHI USD n REAR SUSPENSION: SACHS MONOSHOCK n BRAKES: TWIN 4-PISTON FRONT CALIPERS, SINGLE REAR. n TYRES: 120/70-19, 180/60-17 n PRICE (RRP): $18,490 + ORC

WWW.CYCLETORQUE.COM.AU/MORE CALL FOR A QUOTE

1800 24 34 64

Mufflers look and sound the part.

Radial master cylinders for the clutch and front brake.

WE’LL BEAT ANY PRICE GUARANTEED*

Single sided swingarm is rock solid.

Pretty side of the engine.

Marzocchi forks are firm but cope with rough roads better than expected.

Ugly side of the engine.

CYCLE TORQUE TEST

AXIS MOTORSPORTS KX250F

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 44

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 45

AXIS Motorsports prove that with the right bits and the right attention a top level race bike doesn’t have to be built by a factory team.

MORE

CYCLE TORQUE TEST

AXIS MOTORSPORTS KX250F

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 46

AXIS Motorsports has built a potent Kawasaki KX250F which, as you might expect, goes and handles better than a standard one. Kawasaki machines might be new to the Axis stable but it hasn’t taken the Hunter based firm long to work out how to make one go like a rocket.

Walking down pit lane staring at the factory race team bikes, getting posters from your favourite riders, checking out the race team trucks, and then dreaming about which bike you’d love to throw a leg over is a part of being a spectator at the travelling circus known to many as the Australian MX Nationals.

Axis Motorsports and Kawasaki have joined forces for 2012, with Ben George and Mitch Norris flying the flag for Axis as the official Kawasaki factory support team in the 250cc MXD class. Andrew ‘Hoppo’ Hopson was kind enough to offer up the Axis KX250F race bike for the day as well as one of their race team technicians.

In the workshop The first major project for the Axis Kawasaki Team was building an engine that would give their riders the potential to be at the front of the pack in the Australian MX Nationals Development class. Using their strong ties from around the world and in particular Pro Circuit USA, the Axis Kawasaki Team have combined their in-house knowledge and experience with an incredible list of parts, to build what is arguably the fastest 250cc four-stroke in the MXD class.

At our disposal for the day we had race team mechanic Jesse Wallace to spin the spanners and make sure we felt right at home during the test, and when asked about exactly what was underneath the

KX250F Jesse was more than happy to open up. “We started with a brand new engine, and a catalogue full of Pro Circuit parts, said Wallace. “The engine gets stripped down and we replace pretty much everything inside. Axis Motorsports has a very close relationship with Pro Circuit, and are an exclusive Australian dealer of Pro Circuit Parts and services.

So naturally we use the Pro Circuit Ti-5 exhaust, PC cams, piston, valve train, clutch components, and its larger water impeller.

From there we use a Pro Circuit Spec ported and polished cylinder head together with VP race gas and Maxima racing oils. We recently took delivery of a GET Power Assistance ECU n TEST BY TODD REED which we are still learning about, however it PHOTOS BY CHRIS PICKETT has already proved to be an awesome tool and all of our riders love it. Of course there are less friction, tighter tolerances, greater adjustability, a few other secrets hidden in there, but you’ll and more customised and personalised settings are just have to imagine what they might be for now. ” really what sets the A-Kit apart from anything else, The suspension is the next item which gets a massive and they also come with a trick set of Pro Circuit overhaul. In fact the standard suspension gets triple clamps for a few extra bucks, which ensure the removed right away and replaced with Showa A-Kit Axis Kawasakis handle better than anything else out SFF forks, A-Kit shock and Pro Circuit linkage. The there.

A-Kit equipment is the best suspension money can Grips, graphics, ’bar mounts, gear shifter, and an buy and is priced to match, starting at around the oversize front brake rotor kit also get added to the $7000 mark. The suspension is similar in principal package. Dunlop take care of keeping the KX hooked to the standard equipment, with the exception up in the dirt with the Axis riders using the Geomax that every part receives individual treatment to be MX51 combo as one their most common choices. further improved and refined. Exotic coatings with

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 47

On track performance It only takes a few corners to notice that the Axis Kawasaki is a full-tilt race bike. The KX is very responsive and has some serious power under the bonnet. The power is strong and broad, and has aggressive yet usable power right through the rev range. The Pro Circuit powered KX really comes into its own once you get the small bore engine revving, which rewards the rider with fast explosive power when you keep it on song. The GET Power assistance ECU is a part that comes into a league of it own. The GET system on the axis bike has a dial to control the power delivery to gain more or less wheel spin.

While there are no wheel sensors or items that can directly control wheel spin, many would argue the point that the GET system is a form of traction control. We tested the bike from mild to wild dial settings and the differences were amazing. The bike quickly changed in character, the KX still maintained the same power and horsepower just in a more metered and controlled output.

The track was dry and slippery on our test day, which made us feel like we got the most out of the system as we really used the traction feature on the hard packed, blue groove turns. We’re not sure how the traction assistance feature would work for those of us who ride sandy and loamy track all of the time, but if you encounter any hard

pack where you’re looking for traction the GET is a 5-star product.

The Showa A-Kit Suspension underneath the Axis Kawasaki is very exotic and looks amazing, but what’s it like on the track? The suspension was a fully customised race setup for the #15 of Ben George, so it wasn’t really ideal for us however it was easy to see how well this suspension works.

When we rode hard and fast the KX was a dream ride, we never blew through the stroke on the big hits and the bike always stayed straight and tracked very well under power coming out of turns. We always felt in control and it was easy to gain confidence and trust in the setup, which is arguably the largest factor of all. We adjusted the settings to suit our test track and just a few changes here and there made large gains to make us feel more comfortable on the Ben George settings.

Other bolt on items like the oversize front brake rotor kit, oversize handlebars, Dunlop tyres and Works Connection clutch perch are all items that add a nice touch to the Axis Kawasaki and really finish things off to make the rider feel right at home on the motorcycle. There aren’t any massive gains to be added with these items, but we all know that sometimes it’s the essential items that count.

n SHOEI HELMET, FOX NYLONS/GLOVES, ALPINESTARS BOOTS.

At the end of the day When the sun set on another Cycle Torque test, we came away very impressed with the work Axis had done to the KX250F. There is no doubt this bike has the ability to be running at the front of the pack, and using only parts that are available to the general public it’s amazing to see how much you can develop a bike. A big thanks goes out to the Axis Crew and Kawasaki for letting us ride their pride and joy see what it’s like to be factory for a day. n MORE

CYCLE TORQUE TEST

AXIS MOTORSPORTS KX250F

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 48

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 49

Showa forks get the full Axis treatment.

Even the chain guide comes from Pro Circuit.

Power from the Pro Circuit equipped engine is substantially stronger than stock.

Rear shock and shock links get the Pro Circuit treatment too.

Pro Circuit Ti-5 exhaust

Carbon fibre parts bling up the 250cc powerhouse.

Traction control can be adjusted by the rider.

IBIKE STUFF

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 50

777

1

KBC’s VR1X ‘777’ graphic helmet looks the business but the ‘coolness’ goes much deeper than just its fancy paint scheme.

It’s Tri Comp shell construction allows KBC to make the helmet remarkably light without losing structural integrity.

Other features includes a removable, washable and customizable liner, and tool-less quick release visor.

PRICE: $199 AVAILABLE FROM: Leading motorcycle stores.

MORE INFO: www.cycletorque.com.au/more

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 51

IBIKE STUFF

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 52

TRACK TIME

2

RST’s Tractech leather jacket comes in Euro mens sizes 46-62. It has all the good gear you’d expect from RST, like the premium cowhide, extra stitching on main impact areas, CE armour on the elbows, shoulders and the in-built back protector.

Available in four colour schemes, including black.

PRICE: $399.95 AVAILABLE FROM: Leading motorcycle stores.

MORE INFO: www.cycletorque.com.au/more

IBIKE STUFF

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 53

CHAIN ME UP

3

THE XW-ring from RK Chains is designed to last longer and go further than a regular O-ring chain. According to RK this design also liberates extra horsepower because there is less drag than an O-ring chain.

The RK 520GXW Gold Chain is also available in 428, 525 and 530 pitch.

PRICE: $239.

AVAILABLE FROM: Your local motorcycle dealer MORE INFO: www.cycletorque.com.au/more

IBIKE STUFF

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 54

AIR FLOW

4

GYTR’s foam air filters are renowned for their durability and engine protection value.

Two separate layers of foam provide excellent filtration of dirt and allow maximum airflow.

Recommended for extreme dusty conditions and competition use, and must always be used with foam filter oil.

Available for a wide variety of Yamaha enduro and MX machines.

PRICE: $32.49 AVAILABLE FROM: Yamaha dealers MORE INFO: www.cycletorque.com.au/more

IBIKE STUFF

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 55

WIRED

5

THE Interphone F5 is designed for motorcyclists who like to travel in pairs or groups, and provides conference-type communication for six or more users with a range of 2,400 metres.

It also features highly energy efficient Bluetooth 3.0 technology, which allows for a three hour charge time with 700 hours of standby time and 11 hours talk time.

PRICE: $279 or $509 for twin set.

AVAILABLE FROM: Direct from Strike Communications, 1300 792 044 MORE INFO: www.cycletorque.com.au/more

IBIKE STUFF

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 56

TOP SHELF

6

RACK IT is a heavy duty storage system designed for garages, workshops and offices, or just about anywhere you need to stack stuff.

Newly launched, the Rack It drawer system is ideal for safe, secure dust free storage of tools and smaller items, and is compatible with the existing Rack It storage system.

PRICE: From $49 AVAILABLE FROM: Through Bunnings stores nationwide.

MORE INFO: www.cycletorque.com.au/more

IBIKE STUFF

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 57

GET A GRIP

7

REMEMBER the old days when thick foam grips were all the rage?

Step forward 25 years…enter Grip Puppies.

Unfortunate name, great product.

Essentially Grip Puppies are a high tech, UV stable foam sleeve that slips over existing hand grips.

They provide a barrier that reduces vibration, increases comfort yet still work with heated grips.

Simply coat the inside with a bit of soapy water, slip them on, let them dry and Bob’s yer Mother’s brother…done.

PRICE: $29 a pair.

AVAILABLE FROM: Direct from Andy Strapz, 03 9770 2207 MORE INFO: www.cycletorque.com.au/more

IBIKE STUFF

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 58

LIGHT SABRE

4

KEEP warm, keep dry, and illuminate yourself.

Front and rear lights are integrated in to Triumph’s Sypatex Light jacket, allowing for increased rider visibility. The angle of light does not impede rider vision.

Powered by a lightweight battery pack with USB connection for easy recharging. Other features include removable CE armour, ventilation air flow panels and detachable storm collar.

PRICE: $749 AVAILABLE FROM: Triumph dealers nationwide MORE INFO: www.cycletorque.com.au/more

GARAGE PARTY DROWN OUT EVERYONE TRYING TO

TELL YOU WHAT TO DO

WHAT IS A GARAGE PARTY? GET GEARED UP LEARN MOTORCYCLING BASICS EVENT CALENDAR COMPETITION

TM

USED & REVIEWED A SUCKER FOR A GOOD TANK BAG VENTURA’S Spa tank bag is unique in that it uses suction cups to hang onto your fuel tank, whether it’s made of steel or plastic. The 7litre capacity bag is made of 100 per cent waterproof fabric and has an expandable main body as well as external pocket for wallet or keys.

There is also a clear mobile phone pocket and an internal pocket which is easily accessible from the top.

There is a removable, adjustable shoulder strap and a carry handle. The base features closed cell foam padding and the tried and tested four-flap design has a suction cup on each flap. There are pull-tags on all zips, internal seams are bound and external edges are bound with double fold binding.

There’s a new 3 litre version on its way soon and it will cost $89.

PRICE: $99.95 AVAILABLE FROM: Good motorcycle stores.

MORE INFO: www.cycletorque.com.au/more

CCYYCCLLEE TTOOR RQ QU UEE J U LY LY 2012 - 60

TOURING FEATURE – ROYAL ENFIELDS AR E BACK TO THE FUTURE

CCYYCCLLEE TTOOR RQ QU UEE J U LY LY 2012 - 62

INTO THE

PAST

Touring country roads on new old bikes.

Sounds like fun.

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 63

MORE

TOURING FEATURE – ROYAL ENFIELDS AR E BACK TO THE FUTURE

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 64

INTO THE

PAST

UNLESS you have an old motorcycle which actually still goes there’s not much of a chance for most people to sample what it might have been like to ride a bike on country roads in the old days, or ‘olden days’ like we used to say when we were kids.

UNLESS you have an old motorcycle which actually still goes there’s not much of a chance for most people to sample what it might have been like to ride a bike on country roads in the old days, or ‘olden days’ like we used to say when we were kids.

Of course there was a lengthy process of putting together a fleet of the Timetravellers is a Hunter Valley based motorcycle tour company which Indian made Royal Enfields, and securing a base to work from. allows you to do exactly that; allows you to go back in time but with a slightly modern perspective.

The decision was made to base the tours from Wollombi, a quaint historic town west of Cessnock in the Hunter Valley, about two hours or so north of Arthur from Timetravellers said the idea had germinated inside his head for Sydney. a while: “I couldn’t decide on what sort of bikes to use but I wanted them to be classics. I’m a motorcycle mechanic but I didn’t want to be working on old Timetravellers offers a wide variety of tours, ranging from a simple three hour bikes all the time either, plus there’s the cost of putting together a fleet of ride or single day affairs to overnight rides to places like Jenolan Caves, and expensive classic motorcycles. longer, depending on what the group wants and what Timetravellers can cater for at the time. In a nutshell it’s a matter of ringing and seeing what can “Then one day a customer of ours (Arthur is one of the owners of Motorcycle be done.

Weaponry at Mona Vale in Sydney) rode in on a new Royal Enfield and I knew that was the bike to use.”

Our single day ride headed south to Central Mangrove and along to Wisemans Ferry.

Two guides ensure the group cruises along at a nice relaxed pace, and by the first stop at Jerry’s Cafe near Kulnura everyone seemed pleasantly surprised at how easy and comfortable the 500cc fuel injected Royal Enfields were to to ride.

“These Enfields are so much fun,” said Dave Longbottom, one of the tour participants.

“There’s plenty of room for bigger guys like myself, they cruise along at 100 (kmh) with ease, and the engines are flexible too.”

From Jerry’s Cafe we punted along to Wisemans Ferry and then to Sackville, stopping along the way for lunch (included in the tour cost) at another cool little cafe. After filling our bellies it was time to head the bikes along the other side of the Hawkesbury River, over another ferry or two and back to Wisemans Ferry pub for a cool drink. Along this section of the journey we meandered along a stretch of dirt road which highlighted again how easy to ride the Enfields are. By the time we returned to Wollombi we had covered just over 200 kilometres, with slightly aching muscles and a big smile.

Sure you can ride modern bikes on this tour loop but for many people this particular road is too bumpy for them to be enjoyed properly. Timetravellers has hit paydirt with the Royal Enfields. It gives you a chance to go back in time, even though the bikes are all recent models, and ride at a relaxed, enjoyable, pace. Not once did we pass any traffic lights, so don’t worry about trying to get acclimatised to the bikes in traffic, you are straight onto country roads. There simply is not enough traffic to bother you. And not once did any of the Royal Enfields need a spanner put on them either.

A day ride is only the start too. If you opt for the overnight tour you get main meals, accommodation, fuel, guides, support vehicle and even extras like

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 65

ghost and cave tours, and wine tasting can be arranged.

Timetravellers will even transport you to your wedding on an Enfield. Cool, hey? Up to 10 riders, plus pillions, can be catered for.

We had riders of all ages on the day tour, but you must be at least 25-yearsold and hold at least a P-plate rider’s licence. 25 or 105, if you can ride and you have a licence you’re in.

We found the prices to be extremely reasonable. For example a half-day tour costs $200 and if you’re taking a pillion passenger it’s an extra $80, plus a full day ride isn’t much more than a half day.

For more information check out www.timetravellers.com.au or give them a bell on 0408 995 152.

– Chris Pickett MORE

TOURING FEATURE – ROYAL ENFIELDS AR E BACK TO THE FUTURE

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 66

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 67

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CYCLE TORQUE TEST

YAMAHA YW125 BEEWEE

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 68

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 69

Yamaha’s BeeWee

adds a little edginess to the world of scootering

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CYCLE TORQUE TEST

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 70

YAMAHA YW125 BEEWEE

THE Yamaha YW125 BeeWee scooter is a compact inner city commuter that can turn its hand to a spot of weekend pleasure riding as well. The modest wheelbase and light weight make it a breeze in tight traffic. The meaty 120 and 130 section 12” all-terrain tyres, with their chunky tread, deal with rough tar and dirt road and are pretty good in the wet too. All in all a very user friendly package.

n RIDING GEAR: ZEUS HELMET, IXON JACKET, IXON GLOVES, BULL-IT JEANS, JOE ROCKET BOOTS.

n TEST BY AUNTY MAL PHOTOS BY NIGEL PATERSON

The engine is an air cooled item but with fuel injection, simple on the one hand but with the smoothness and convenience of EFI. In traffic and in more open running, the BeeWee puts its head down and surges away with gusto. This scoot’ is grunty for a 125. It started and ran flawlessly during the test. Also, it has some intriguing features such as an aircraft style fuel filler cap and a large comfortable seat, both of which are opened by turning the ignition key, in the ignition switch. Clever and convenient. The fuel can be attended to without the need to lift the seat, a plus and the fuel cap pops open all at the turn of the ign’ key. Neat. The seat got a bouquet from

Superpillion who stated “it’s great, more comfort than on a lot of bikes.”

Yamaha says it’s “designed to be shared,” hinting at its two-up capability.

She also loved the urban warrior, new age styling. I felt it was more than a little reminiscent of design elements highlighted in the heavyweight V-Max and MT01 models?This is especially so in the black livery. “The Black Prince” became its nickname. Styling also attracted interest from non scooter riders and car drivers. Yamaha’s product info’ states “from caterpillar to butterfly”.

It is distinct in the styling department, but I prefer to think ‘black prince’ cicada, rather than butterfly.

C YCCYLCEL ET OTROQ RU QEU EJ UJLUYL Y2 021021 2- 7 - 1 71

The brakes and suspension work well. A disc up front, drum rear, and road type dual shocks combine to deliver sharp braking and pretty fair ride comfort. I took the scoot’ out on some very rough roads and rode it as hard as was sensible, and it coped very well. Hard to get perfect ride comfort in a platform with a short wheelbase, light weight, (121kg), 12” wheels, and modest suspension travel. Despite these physical facts, BeeWee managed pretty well, only the worst potholes “getting through”. All the time the willing little engine was there when needed.

Understand this was far outside the design parameters of said item. Versatile. Nippy urban and suburban commuting is its forte. Go beyond that and this scooter will handle it all to a remarkable degree, so, not “just a commuter”.

This scooter can eat the daily commute, and still get stuck into the “twisty backroads” as well, light with short wheelbase equals manoeuvreability plus. Its large seat, excellent grabrail, underseat storage and fuel cap ignition key release, make it pillion friendly and easy to live with for the rider too.

The BeeWee is $3999 ride away and is a good value proposition, smell of an oily rag fuel consumption, with new age looks and competent road manners, deliver the goods. n

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CYCLE TORQUE TEST

YAMAHA YW125 BEEWEE

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 72

C YCCYLCEL ET OTROQ RU QEU EJ UJLUYL Y2 021021 2- 7 - 3 73

SPECIFICATIONS:

Substantial seat hides the fuel tank.

Funky double security ignition lock.

n ENGINE TYPE: AIR-COOLED SINGLE n CAPACITY: 125CC n TRANSMISSION: AUTOMATIC, V-BELT n FUEL CAPACITY: 6 LITRES n FRAME TYPE: TUBULAR STEEL n SEAT HEIGHT: 780MM n WET WEIGHT: 121 KG n FRONT SUSPENSION: TELESCOPIC n REAR SUSPENSION: UNIT SWING n BRAKES: SINGLE DISC FRONT, DRUM REAR. n TYRES: 120/70-12, 130/70-12 n PRICE (RRP): $3,999

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CVT all the way.

Single front caliper does an admirable job stopping the little scoot.

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 74

LETTERS No handicap

K C A B I G N I U Q TO R

JUST a quick note to say that I enjoy, and have for some time, Cycle Torque. A good read.

The May issue has prompted me to drop you a brief note for two reasons. I’ve read only two brief articles on the passing of Jeremy Bowdler.

I’d had dealings with Jeremy myself and found him a very humble person, someone who would go out of their way to help a fellow rider, be they novice or expert. He never forced his opinion on you and gave quiet advice only if solicited.

It was good to see something in Cycle Torque on him. I know that articles are penned sometime before they are published, but Two Wheels still has him as editor in their June mag. When will they tell the motorcycling world of his passing?

Your note on Alan Kempster. I spoke with Alan earlier in the day on Sunday at the Barry Sheene Festival of Speed, and he was excited he finally got below the 2 minute barrier. He is another very humble person, never referring to his disabilities (Kempster lost an arm and a leg in a road motorcycle accident). He should be in front of every child in school in Australia. It’s not a matter of what you’ve got, rather what you do with what you have and Alan has done a bucket load. He puts everything he has into his racing, and doesn’t have people in the pits to help him. He is a genuine one man band playing every instrument to perfection. I think he is worthy of a detailed article and would love to see it in a future copy.

Cheers Colin Stuart Two Wheels Magazine has much longer lead times than Cycle Torque so this is most likely the reason Jeremy was still down as editor. Jeremy’s work associates were hit pretty hard by his passing and I am pretty sure this ‘oversight’ would have been out of their control. Good idea on the Kempster article. Ed.

Poor attitude

JUST picked up the latest Cycle Torque and as usual it’s filled with all the good bits of motorcycling. Great articles, plenty of accessory bits and the good old ‘Torquing Back’ column but

WRITE A LETTER!

WIN A GREAT PRIZE

This month Colin Stuart has won a Cargol Turn & this is why I have got my knickers in Go puncture repair kit. a knot.

Available from better bike shops everywhere and On page three there is a decent size there’s a video of one being used on the Cycle article on the poor attitudes of the Torque website.

Send your letters (and/or great bike pictures) to illustrious members of the Victorian The Editor, Cycle Torque, PO Box 687 Warners Bay, TAC towards all motorcyclists. Let it NSW 2282 or email be known that as a motorcyclist of chris@cycletorque.com.au.

40 years I have no argument with the comments of Shaun Leonard, chairman of the Australian Motorcycle Council, however your magazine (and don’t worry there are others) do nothing to defunct the blatant attack on us by TAC when you place adds FOR those of you that have ridden out and into such as the one on page five depicting an Husky the Hawkesbury you would be well aware of the Nuda 900 with the comment ‘Mistreat the Street’. beautiful venues we have out here, some of which Come on guys we all know how we behave on are the Bells Line of Road with all of its occasions but this sort of advertising, whilst lovely restaurants and great gardens, the Putty bringing in the money to publish your mag, Road now with its new half way house, the Grey is NOT helping our plight. It should not be Gums Café, the Wisemans Ferry and out there also forgotten that we are likely not the only ones is St. Albans Pub, all of which are great venues reading your publication. and great roads to ride on.

Cheers One great venue we are lucky to have out here Tony Janicska in Windsor is Australia’s Outback Bakehouse Thanks for voicing your opinion Tony. As you operated by owner Rob Pirina located in George know this type of aggressive marketing is St, Windsor right beside the historic Paddle commonly used, just look at the Holden Commodore Wheel.

‘Thunder’ ute advertisement on television at the Rob’s staff are very biker friendly and are now moment. very aware of the Ulysses movement. They love to I can see where you are coming from but do we see all our bikes parked out the front while Rob get to the point where we are too scared to kindly supports our monthly newsletter, if we do run ads like this just in case it upsets some charity rides Rob is again more than generous. faceless bureaucrat?

If you are a fellow Ulyssesian, why not ask the Then do we start running photos of our test staff for one of Rob’s Ulysses Pies and even if bikes riding upright in a straight line, just you are not a Ulyssesian, try one any way. so we don’t get the pollies thinking we are all Rob runs a great business out here, so if you lunatics on the road? Ed. are planning a ride out to Windsor and beyond, call into Australia’s Outback Bakehouse for a great coffee and a good feed and a friendly I RECKON qualifying is over and one bike magazine chat. I believe the Bakery is open seven days is in pole position – Cycle Torque. The iPad a week, so you’re always guaranteed a place to edition gets better every issue. Interactive rest or do like we do and use it as a place to images and links allows the reader to go into meet and leave from. more detail on issues of interest. YouTube I know you will not be disappointed, so call in video links with the tester providing a richer and say G-day. story... And the sounds of a bike too. Magic.

Rick Lesniewicz Regards President Darren Hocking Hawkesbury Ulysses.

Motorcycle friendly

Pole position

CYCLE TORQUE LONG TERM – SHINERAY XY250GY -2

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 75

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CYCLE TORQUE LONG TERM – SHINERAY XY250GY -2

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 76

A CHANGE OF WHEELS, A CHANGE OF CHARACTER OUR long term Shineray XY250GY-2 dirt bike has been getting a fair bit of a workout lately, not on the dirt as you might expect, but on the tar.

In our six months or so with the bike it has performed quite well, and those who have ridden the bike have been more than surprised by its performance. There’s no getting around the fact the bike can’t compete with the mainstream 250cc fourstrokes on the market on the performance side, but it more than competes on price.

The 250cc DOHC engine is liquid-cooled and housed in a chrome-moly chassis, with an alloy swingarm. In our hands the bike has proven to be tough and reliable, with the only hiccup being a cantankerous engine, which would cut out every now and then, making the rider wait a short while before going again. It turned out to be a bit of crap in the fuel, which was intermittently blocking the idle jet, an easy fix at the end of the day.

This was sorted when the bike was returned to the Shineray importer, Zuma Motorcycles in Wollongong, for its first service. When it came back it was running very strong, and also sported a set of motard wheels.

The very day it got back to Cycle Torque HQ we had it out on the streets seeing how it handled. In traffic it was a hoot, able to keep up with cars without any issue. In fact we took it on a photo shoot with a Yamaha Vmax,

one of the most powerful production bikes ever made, and in speed zones up to 80km/h every time we looked in the mirror, the little Shineray motard was right there.

With the motard wheels on it will be easier to commute on, because it’s now a little lower than with the larger diameter wheels, and suits more of the riders in the Cycle Torque team.

Other than take off the rear rack we haven’t had to touch the bike, and now that we have a 2012 Husqvarna TE 310 in the long term stable we plan to go back and forth, converting the bike from tar to dirt spec so we can do some decent trail riding as well.

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 77

Zuma Motorcycles sells two different models of the XY250GY-2, enduro, and trail versions. But if you want to sample both it’s a simple matter of buying the endure version and a set of motard wheels.

The total cost of the conversion is $844.80, which gets you front and rear 17 inch wheels, a motard rear sprocket and a chain. While the chain is the same pitch on both bikes, the motard’s smaller rear sprocket dictates you’ll need a shorter chain. A specific breakdown of costs sees the front wheel cost $375, the rear wheel $350, sprocket $49.90 and the new chain $69.90. This doesn’t include fitting or tyres and tubes.

Fitting is easy though, and anyway with a bit of motorcycle experience you will have no problems.

The designers have thrown in a nice little touch too, allowing you to calibrate the speedo to suit the 17 inch wheels yourself.

The procedure is simple, with the ignition off you press the two buttons on the instruments down simultaneously, and at the same time turn the ignition on.

The dash will then show up the number 21” or 17”, and by pressing the right hand button you can select your wheel size. The next step is to hold down the right and left buttons at the same time for about four seconds. Turn the ignition off and the speedo is calibrated.

While the Shineray will prowl the streets for a while we do intend to get it very dirty soon, so stay tuned to see how it copes with a weekend away in the bush.

– Chris Pickett

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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 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.

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

1. AMERICAN DREAM BIKES

CYCLE TORQUE PEOPLE --TOM EDWARDS

Tom’s career on track TOM Edwards is 10 years old, lives in Swansea near Newcastle and is in Year 5 at Morisset primary school.

“Then it was suggested that perhaps Tom should try his hand in America and the seed was sown,” his father Paul said.

He got his first motorbike, a quad, when he “Donna and I then set about raising funds was 18 months old. He started racing 3 years with the help of family and friends so that we ago. could make it possible,” he said.

Before too long it seemed pretty obvious to the Edwards family that they had a budding dirt champion on their hands.

“Once we knew it was going to happen the excitement set in. The thought of racing in the United States against some of the

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 82

world’s best riders on the world’s best prepared machines was surreal.

“We flew over and Tom attended a two-day riding school, conducted by Mike Hacker and his team of pro riders from the American ride school academy on a big clay speedway with a massive TT course incorporated into it.”

“To get into the finals last year Tom had to qualify in either first or second place in his heats if he wanted to make the front row, which is not easy to do when you’re competing with kids who are riding at the top level in America,” he said.

“But Tom managed to do it consistently and showed us all just how capable he is.”

The school was conducted at the “Lucky Thumb” track in northern Michigan.

Here’s just a small dose of what young Tom has achieved so far: 2010 NSW 65cc “It was very professional and certainly helped Dirt track champion, 2010 NSW 85cc Dirt prepare Tom for the competition ahead,” Paul Track champion, 2010 Victorian 65cc Dirt said.

Track champion, 2010 NSW long track titles They had a 12-hour drive across three states to 65cc 2nd position, Queensland long track get to the race venue at De Quoin, Illinois.

3rd place 65cc, 2011 Australian titles 85cc 3rd place, NSW dirt track tittles 85cc 3rd Tom had his first heat race in the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) Grand Nationals place, USA GRAND NATIONALS 2nd place 65cc, 2012 NSW 85cc Long Track champion, modified 65cc event and won it.

Queensland long track tittles 3rd place 85cc, The stage was set for a memorable first race and 32 podium finishes at national meetings season in America. in that time.

At the end of it all young Tom placed second This year’s trip to America almost didn’t overall in the 65cc standard DTX division, which happen after Tom high-sided at the NSW is a huge achievement for a first effort overseas. titles and hurt his leg two months ago.

His parents Paul and Donna are justifiably Nevertheless the trip went ahead, this time to proud of young Tom’s achievements so early in Springfield, Illinois, where the AMA dirt track his riding career. nationals were held two weeks ago.

“We have also had some great support from “It was a bit harder this time,” Paul said. people in America, such as Mick Kirkness and “He finished mid-pack in a lot of his heats, others, who have seen young Tom’s talent and which meant he was further back at the starting been so willing to help him achieve his goals,” lineup for the finals,” he said.

Paul said.

He contested both the 65cc and 85cc events and made the finals for both events.

“He finished 7th overall in the 65cc titles and eighth overall in the 85cc title,” Paul said.

We suspect that the world hasn’t heard the last of young Tom Edwards - watch this space. n

CYCLE TORQUE FEATURE - PART 1

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 84

Mladin UNPLUGGED n BY DARRYL FLACK

The AMA Superbike legend reflects on an amazing career

For a rider who lived to race, Mat Mladin’s exit from professional competition came as a shock - mostly to the man himself. After winning seven AMA Superbike Championships and looking to make it eight in 2009, Mladin quit halfway through the season, overwhelmed by a lack of motivation.

Riders in their twilight years often struggle to be competitive; Mladin’s dilemma was polar opposite. At 37, he was winning races but the problem was he was winning them too easily. To mere mortals, this would be a blessing. For someone as ferociously competitive as Mat Mladin, it was soul destroying.

we won Daytona on it, and it just got easier and easier, it was ridiculous. That was part of the vendetta of proving it wasn’t the bike - I wanted to flog them and we did it in the first six, seven races, and it got easier with every Whether there was ever a time when he went back for race.” Asked if he was surprised that Suzuki teammates the annual Dunlop tyre test at Daytona each January Explaining the genesis of all this in the lead up to Blake Young and Roger Hayden, and Yamaha’s Josh and said, ‘this is it, this’ll be my last year?’ Mladin said, Daytona 2009, Mladin said, “DMG changed the rules so Hayes failed to step up under the new rules, Mladin fired “No, never, even in 2009 and the stuff that went down we were racing production-based bikes, Superstock/ back, “Well, it surprised them because apparently the with the bikes we were racing, and the stuff with DMG Superbikes, and that was a challenge. It was the same only reason why Spies and I had done any good was [Daytona Motorsport Group] and the fact that [Ben] old story, Mladin and Spies were only winning because because we had better bikes. After that, I just completely Spies wasn’t there anymore to drive me forward. He their bikes are better. For Daytona, I hadn’t even seen the lost it. My motivation, the intensity had gone. I stopped saved my career in a way. In 2005 when I’d won my sixth bike, it was bought off Chaparral Motorsports [a large training, and finished up 4kg heavier, and then I couldn’t title and the travel was getting to me, I’d pretty much dealership in San Bernardino, CA] two weeks before the even ride hard after that. In my last two races, I tried to had enough. By the end of that year, Spies had picked up race because Suzuki didn’t have any. It wasn’t even a have a bit of a go, but the intensity had gone completely. and was good competition, made me work for another 2009 model, it was a 2008. I’d never seen the bike and few years. Him leaving was pretty much the end of my career. I just didn’t want to be there anymore. I won the first seven or eight races, and that was it. I lost it, I lost it completely.”

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 85 I’d never felt it before, because every time I’ve ever got on a bike, the red mist came down. Half-way through the season and with the shit that happened at Topeka (where Mladin had refused to race due to serious safety concerns about the Kansas circuit) I knew it was time to get out.”

When the discussion turns to Hannah displacing Marty Smith as the supremo of US motocross and Supercross in the late 70s, Mladin - a top junior motocrosser and Supercross rider - voices his displeasure over the dominance of Supercross over motocross. “I can’t stand Supercross, I hate it,” says Mladin, mimicking riding over some whoops then a double before rounding In the same year that Spies came to define Mladin’s a berm and doing it all again. He concedes that Rick career in 2005, flying became his number one hobby Carmichael’s record-breaking outdoor era re-ignited and Bob Hannah his best mate. interest in motocross after a decade of Jeremy McGrath “In 2005, I got sick of commercial travel, the delays and re-writing the Supercross record books, adding that as the rest of it. I had a race in Mid-Ohio and then I had to brilliant as he was in motocross, “I could never watch go to Charlotte North Carolina for TV, from there to New Ricky race Supercross.” When I told Mladin that when Hampshire for a track inspection, and into Canada for I was at the 2009 Anaheim 1 AMA Supercross, winner business then back home. I was two days delayed and Chad Reed was booed by some sections of the crowd had to spend a night away, which wasn’t planned. At on the podium, he laughed, and said, “Well, you know that point I thought, ‘I either start flying myself to race when you’ve made it when you get booed.” And when I meetings or get out of racing completely. I’m completely mentioned how enthusiastic the crowd was compared over travel on commercial airlines. At that point, I got to an Aussie race gathering, he said, “Well, you wouldn’t in contact with one of Suzuki’s reps and he said, ‘oh, want to get too excited, you might cop it from your you should talk to Bob Hannah’. Growing up riding mates.” motocross, I had the Bob Hannah helmet, everything.

Mladin ventured to the US in 1996 with long-time Team He’s like me - when he’s not racing, he likes to be home.

Kawasaki Australia wrench Reg O’Rourke, and re-united He’s doesn’t like to hang around races and go through all with TKA team manager Peter Doyle five years later. the bullshit. His wife says we are brothers from different When it’s pointed out that Peter Doyle - who bled lime mothers. We are very, very alike. Anyway, I called Bob green for over 20 years with Kawasaki - still doesn’t look and I said I’m looking at this plane, a Pilatus PC12. We right in a Suzuki shirt sprouting Suzuki PR after a race met each other and got into what they call back-country win Mladin agrees; “Yeah, it doesn’t look right, does it?!” flying, which is purely for fun, not speed. You can land in creeks and on the sides of hills and skim the tyres on “Look, Pete’s a professional, but really, he’s a Kawasaki the water.” Asked if he did any of that stuff here, “No, guy. So am I actually. I have a few umbrellas outside, no way…and even if I did, I wouldn’t say so, not in the Kawasaki and Suzuki, and if it’s raining I always go nanny state...” for the Kawasaki one - just feels right. This morning, I called ‘Bargs’ (former TKA wrench Glenn MacDonald) Then there’s the chopper. “Last year, I went out to Lake at Kawasaki about getting some parts. Obviously, Reg Eyre in the helicopter, picked up a mate in Griffith and was with me all the way through in America, and Doyley spent a few days over the outback. It was great. I just since 2001. There’s always been that connection with enjoy flying and Bob and I just hit it off. We look at racing Kawasaki going back to ’92 when we won the Superbike the exactly same way, so when we bullshit to each other, Championship.” it sounds all the same.”

If not for an agreement with wife Janine to return to Australia after he had finished racing, Mladin would still be living in America. “I just loved America, that’s why I stayed there that long. Once you get out of places like LA, the people are really down to earth. We had a place in Vegas and a place in California, “we were in the motorhome for a lot of time early on”, interjects Janine, “yeah about five years,” Mat responded, “then always back to Australia for the off-season for three months, November to January”.

Mladin was never one to keep an eye to the record books, but in retirement admits, “I do a little a bit now. My career was pretty cool. I spent a lot of time in America and I built the [Yoshimura Suzuki] team and took it from being the team that nobody wanted to go to, to the team that everybody wanted to go to. That’s probably one of the things that I’m proudest, the fact that I could get a bunch of guys together to do the job right, from being the laughing stock of the paddock to the powerhouse of the paddock. On top of that, gee, we won seven championships and 81 races, and 50 or so pole positions.”

For fans and the media, there was always the nagging question - could Mladin have made a successful return to Europe after his debut 1993 GP season with Cagiva fizzled. “I got asked all the time about when I was going back to Europe. World Superbike, I had no interest in going there because the level was no higher than American Superbike. I think that’s been proven a couple of times. And in GP, I don’t think I would’ve been competitive. You can’t be six-foot tall and 75kg and be competitive there. It was as simple a decision as that. I could go there thinking I can make something happen, and get paid crap money and run around in the top ten, but it wasn’t what I wanted to do. I stayed in America and made millions of dollars every year and rode competitive bikes.” n MORE

CYCLE TORQUE FEATURE - PART 1

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 87

QUAD TORQUE

CYCLE TORQUE TEST C Y C LE T O R Q U E J U L Y 2 0 1ATV2 - 88 PARKLANDS UTV DEMO DAY

KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 89

Well if you’re going to test some all terrain vehicles I suppose you’d be hard pushed to find a better venue than Eastern Creek’s four-wheel-drive test track.

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QUAD TORQUE

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 90

CYCLE TORQUE TEST - PARKLANDS ATV-UTV DEMO DAY

KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY PARKLANDS Power Products had invited a group of media representatives to the test track to get a first-hand look and experience the versatility of the Parklands Power Products range of ATVs. A 100 per cent Australian owned company, Parklands Power Products has been around since 1968 specialising in outdoor power equipment. Some of the brands the company has distributed since that time include the Japanese Tanaka range of brushcutting equipment, Murray ride-on mowers from the USA, Grasshopper ride-on mowers from the USA, Amazone machinery for maintaining parks and lawns, from Europe, and now a big range of HiSun quads and UTVs from China.

About six years ago the company also started producing its own mowers, cultivators, hedge trimmers, chainsaws, pole saws and vacuums.

So you could say this family owned and operated company knows quite a bit about the kinds of machines and engines that Australian householders and farmers have needed over many decades.

its single-cylinder four-stroke fan forced, air cooled OHC But we were there to get an up close look at the ATVs and engine featuring automatic clutch.

UTVs, although just to digress for a second, more than one journo on the day wanted to have a ride on the ride- It’s a shaft drive unit with five forward gears and one reverse with both electric and manual start. on grasscutter.

It has a 12litre fuel tank and 22inch wheels all round. Seat Parklander’s ATVs are built by HiSun, one of China’s height is 810mm and wheelbase is 1145mm. largest offroad vehicle manufacturers.

With a maximum power output of 11kW and maximum HiSun has plants in Vietnam and Indonesia producing torque of 15Nm it is a sturdy little beast and is rated for a motorcycles, ATV’s and various motorised vehicles. top speed of 65kmh.

The smallest quad in the range is the PQV-250ST with

The PQV 400ATV is a lightweight, manoeuvrable workhorse with loads of features including 4WD switchable to 2WD, front differential lock 4WD, independent front suspension and swingarm rear suspension.

It has front and rear luggage racks, dual ventilated disc brakes on the front and a single rear.

It has headlights, tail lights and indicators for added safety as well as digital dash with speedo and odometer.

Shaft drive adds to its durability and it has a 15 litre fuel

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 91

tank.

The PQV 500ATV is a step up from the 400 with more power at lower rpm along with the comfort that comes from fully independent double wishbone suspension front and back.

It features DELPHI EFI fuel injection for better starting and performance and it has a 3500lb winch and alloy wheels. A 17litre fuel tank keeps you humming along for longer.

The smaller ATVs have plenty of zip and agility, but once you get into the 500cc and over range then you start to see some really serious grunt taking place.

Parklander also has a range of UTVs from the PQV400UTV, the PQV500UTV-4 and the PQV800UTV. The UTVs are designed for a wide range of professions including farming, landscaping, greenkeeping etc.

These side-by-side vehicles offer a good variety of setups.

All are roofed and have 3500lb winches. The 400 UTV has reinforced rollover cage, windscreen, bench seat with dual seatbelts as well as headlights, tailights and indicators for extra safety.

There is a manual tilt tray for easy load removal and remote control on the winch for maximum convenience.

PQV 800ATV has a pretty serious vee twin eight-valve It’s a shaft drive and can reach speeds of 65kmh and water cooled engine which pumps out 41 kW at 6500rpm boasts a large 30litre fuel tank. with a maximum torque of 90Nm at 4500rpm.

The 500 has all the features of the 400 but with two It features 4WD switchable to 2WD with rear differential bucket seats instead of benches and no windscreen. lock for maximum manouverability and better steering It has doors for additional safety and comfort, better as well as extra braking power with a disc on each wheel alloy wheels, a handy sundry box for more storage plus a tailshaft park brake. and a maximum speed of 70kmh. Although designed There is a double seat for passenger comfort as well as an for professionals in farming, construction and defence optional extra backrest and the fuel tank holds 26 litres industries this vehicle is also very well suited for hunting, for longer ride time. The 800 also has luggage racks front camping or just having fun. and rear as well as alloy wheels, winch, tow hitch and The 800cc version was great fun to ride. It almost sounds handguards for added safety. like a V8. It has all the features of the 500cc UTV with a

passenger grab rail, for those hairy moments, side netting instead of doors, a fixed tray rather than a tilt tray, a disc on each wheel, plus a tailshaft park brake and it is capable of 90kmh.

The following recommended retail prices may vary from state to state and region to region depending on dealer charges, state government fees etc: The 250cc ATV is $4180, the 400cc ATV is $5500, 500cc is $6995, 800cc is $8999; the 400cc UTV is $7590, the 500cc UTV is $8996 and the 800cc UTV is $11,490.

For more information on Parklands Power products check out www.parklands.net or free call 1800 671 417. n

N ext Month i n

CYCLE TORQUE JULY 2012 - 92

IBikes tested

Triumph 1200 Explorer Ducati Diavel Yamaha WR250F Kawasaki KVF300 ATV BMW R 1200 R FEATURES Adventure touring – Adelaide to Uluru Husqvarna TE310 long term Cycle Torque People – Fraser Motorcycles’ Mal Hall

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