Cycle Torque July 2009

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JULY 2009 Contents 16

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TEST

TEST

HUSABERG FE570

VICTORY VISION

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32 TEST

TEST

APRILIA DORSODURO

YAMAHA YFZ450R

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44 TEST

MV AGUSTA Brutale 989R

TEST

SHERCO 5.1

features 26 BOOK SALES 34 QUAD NEWS 42 ASBK Update REGULARS 5-11 News 20 race torque 21 LETTERS 23-25 bike stuff 38 EDITORIAL 39 Don’t Miss 40 major events 31 Dirty Torque 49 WileyX PHOTO COMP 54 PUBLISHER’S PIECE 55 guntrip

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Cover photos by Nigel Paterson

JULY 2009 - 5

NEWS torque

Plater shines at Isle of Man

HM PLANT rider Steve Plater has continued his rise in the world of pure road racing, winning his first TT during the 2009 festival.

Plater took victory in the Senior race on his CBR1000RR Honda.

But it didn’t come easy, Plater was running second to team-mate and lap record holder John McGuinness, until McGuinness – who had a massive lead – was forced to retire on lap four of the six lap race with a broken chain.

“It will perhaps sink in later just exactly what I have achieved; its stuff dreams are made of. It’s unfortunate that John went out, but that’s what happens in racing. He would have been there at the end for sure, but I was just trying my hardest to do a really good out lap as Neil Tuxworth has been whinging and whining at me all week for being an old lady on the first lap!

That’s what I was concentrating on and then just seeing how the result went from there.

“This achievement today will finally sink in next week as I have to turn my attention back to short circuits and the British Supersport Championship. I just need a bit of Plater time on my own to take it all in. But I said to the guys at HM Plant Honda, as soon as the chequered flag falls here I will be thinking about winning at Snetterton next Sunday.”

McGuinness has set the bar even higher during this year’s festival, taking the lap record to a staggering 131.578mph (211.754km/h).

Unfortunately Australia’s Cameron Donald was forced to sit out

Above: Rossi congratulating John McGuiness after his Superbike win.

Left: Guy Martin during the SuperSport TT.

the event after crashing during practice, injuring his shoulder. Donald was expected to fare very well on the track after breaking the 130mph barrier.

Keeping it green was the TTXGP race, held over one lap of the road circuit. Winning the race was Rob Barber on the UK/India-based Team Agni machine, taking the flag with a lap of 87.434mph.

TTXGP founder Azhar Hussain said, “Today represents the culmination of an incredibly long journey to the world’s first clean emission eGrandPrix. The teams, riders and all those involved in making this event possible have worked tirelessly to make the TTXGP the reality it has become today.

“Together we have proved that zero carbon transport technologies have the capabilities to thrill motor racing fans and are ready for application in the real world.”

Full results for all classes can be found at www.iomtt.com. n

Iced Buell

A NITROUS-injected Buell 1125R motorcycle has reached a speed of 238km/h on a frozen lake to become the fastest bike on ice.

Extreme temperatures, extreme bike, extreme speed – Buell’s resident UK stunt rider Craig Jones has just set a world record in Sweden where he braved subzero temperatures to push the 1125R for the record.

After a short test period and several practices Craig’s modified Buell 1125R sportsbike reached the phenomenal speed of 238km/h on a frozen Lake Dellen, with only a few centimetres of ice separating him from the icy water.

Complete with nitrous oxide injection providing an estimated extra 50bhp, the white Buell 1125R reached top speed on a 1.1km run. The tyres were specially adapted with protruding spikes (20mm on rear and 15mm on front) designed to increase grip on the perilous surface.

Craig was undeterred by the risks associated with the attempt.

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“I firmly believe that your head is the biggest limiting factor in pushing to the edge. The less you think about the risks, the further you can push yourself. So I kept it simple.

I just put the bike into gear, tucked down and went as fast as I could,” Craig said.

To see Craig’s antics head to HarleyDavidson’s YouTube Channel – w w w.youtube.com/har leydavidsonaus – and click on the ‘Ice Ride’ video in the library. n

NEWS torque

Reed leads AMA MX AUSTRALIA’S Chad Reed has won his first 450-class AMA motocross round and now leads the championship after the High Point round on June 13.

Reed, riding his Makita Rockstar Suzuki, beat two Honda Red Bull riders, Andrew Short and Ivan Tedesco. The podium was the same in both heats on the day, with Reed winning both races from Short and Tedesco. 2009 is the first time since 2006 Reed has contested the motocross championship, preferring to concentrate on Supercross.

“It feels good to get my first overall motocross win, but to be truthful, I feel like I should have been here a long time ago.

And it’s fitting that my last [motocross] win was a one-one here in 2002. Today we came back for my first 450-class win.

We made some changes to the Rockstar Makita Suzuki RM-Z450 today, and I’ve been feeling pretty comfortable on the bike, though I’m still not 100 per cent. I’m just doing the best I can to go out and put

my best foot forward for the fans.”

Australians and New Zealanders are doing well in the AMA motocross this year: apart from Reed, Michael Byrne (Suzuki) took fourth at High Point and is seventh overall.

Cody Cooper was fifth and is sixth overall with Queensland Dan Reardon tenth in the championship standings.

Frenchman Christophe Pourcel won both of

the Lites-class heats. The Frenchman cruised to victory in the day’s first moto but battled with Honda’s Trey Canard throughout moto two. A mistake by Canard gave Pourcel the lead and he managed to hold out Ryan Dungey. Purcel now leads the championship by just two points from Dungey. Aussie Brett Metcalfe is seventh in the championship standings. n

Crump leads World Speedway

Jason Crump has extended his lead at the top of the World Speedway Championship after taking an impressive victory in the Danish Grand Prix at Copenhagen and finishing second at the previous round in Sweden. Crump recovered from two second placed finishes to reel off five impressive victories in a night dominated by controversy off the Danish track. Crump won the final from American Greg Hancock, with Poland’s Tomasz Gollob in third and Dane Niels-Kristian Iversen in fourth.

In a smart tactical move Crump chose the outside gate for the final, to limit the impact of Gollob who is famous for his outside passing manoeuvres and won this meeting last year with a move of

that type.

Crump’s nearest challenger prior to Copenhagen, Russian wunderkind Emil Sayfutdinov led the qualifiers with 14 points, but an exclusion for touching the tapes in his semi final allowed Crump the opportunity to increase his lead.

Leigh Adams who has been a little off song in recent weeks, had another bad night by his standards to score six points and miss the semi final cut-off by just one point.

However it was the off track drama that had everyone talking though, with defending champion Nicki Pedersen successfully requesting a change of referee just prior to the meeting, requests from riders that Sayfutdinov’s engine

capacity be measured after the meeting and two riders allegedly spitting at each other after an on track incident late in the meeting.

Crump now has a 14 point lead as the series moves to Cardiff, long regarded as the Premier meeting of the season, and one very dear to Crump’s heart being close to his birth place at Bristol.

The twice world champion could really make it difficult for the whole field with a win here, but would be well aware that defending World Champion Nicki Pedersen some 30 points behind, will be looking to come back hard here, and Sayfutdinov is a definite contender capable of handling the pressure of a big occasion. n

25 years of the Ninja

2009 marks the 25th year of Kawasaki’s Ninja. It all kicked off in 1984 with the GPz900R and continues to this day with the ZX-10R. Of course there’s been plenty of different models in the ensuing years with bikes from as little as 250cc and up to 1400cc but needless to say Kawasaki is obviously a company who likes long model runs and is also sentimental about its heritage. n

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NEWS torque

Salt Fever

THIS year Evelyne Sholz and partner Dave ‘Bones’ McLachlan are joining the large contingent of Aussie and Kiwi racers making another pilgrimage to the holy ground of salt racing, the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah.

These Aussies will attend the huge Speedweek event on 7-14 of August 2009 and the all motorcycle BUB Speed Trials event a fortnight later.

The Aussie and Kiwi racers have formed a bilateral team to challenge the Americans for the first Anzac Challenge Trophy which has been organised by team transport sponsor, A-Ward, the New Zealand owned demolition equipment manufacturer.

Joining the duo on the Bonneville pilgrimage are Aussies Terry Prince, Norm Hardinge and his sleek ’34 Ford roadster, expat Kiwi Richard Assen and his 250mph Suzuki Hayabusa and of course Kim Krebs and Greg Watters and his 750cc Turbo Suzuki and a large New Zealand based contingent.

‘Bones’ won’t be riding at the Speedweek event, he’ll suit up a fortnight later at the all bike BUB Speed Trials meeting to ride fellow tourist Terry Prince’s mega trick Vincent powered sidecar. Bones will ride the machine in the pushrod engined SC- PF 1350 class against a 154.485mph record and a hoard of Harley-Davidsons, while the owner, Terry Prince will ride it in the vintage oriented SCVF1350 class, with hopes of claiming an AMA record in both classes.n

Kymco launches ATVs and motorcycles

FOR the past nine years, Taiwanese company Kymco has been successfully marketing its range of scooters under the BUG banner to become the fourth largest scooter manufacturer in Australia. BUG scooters will be re-branded Kymco in 2009.

And now the company has just launched a range of All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) tailored for Australian conditions, and will introduce a range of entry-level motorcycles to the market in last quarter of this year.

While still in its relatively early stages in Australia, Kymco manufactures over 480,000 scooters alone each year, which means that every 65 seconds someone, somewhere in the world, is purchasing a Kymco scooter.

“Kymco is one of the few ‘self-sufficient’ companies across the globe, manufacturing almost all of its own components, from wheels to carburettors and engines to brake pads,” says Stuart McLean, Chief Executive Officer of Kymco Australia & New Zealand.

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“Where other manufacturers have buyers running around Asia sourcing parts and components, most of what you see on a Kymco is manufactured by Kymco itself.”

The company has forged a strong relationship with the global scooter and motorcycle industry, manufacturing engines for European, Japanese and American bike, ATV and Snowmobile producers.

“The fact that prestige companies are willing to put their reputation in the hands of Kymco speaks volumes for our product,” McLean said.

“And to back up our product, we have assembled a nationwide dealer network and a team of local, experienced industry professionals to take our product to market and ensure we provide an optimum level of service to our customers.”

Kymco has a huge range of products. For more information on Kymco call (03) 9580 0788 or visit www.kymco.com.au. n

T ur k ey routed WIDELY known and respected international shipping outfit Get Routed is planning a shipment of Aussie bikes into Izmir, Turkey in 2011.

“We will have the bikes in Izmir and unloaded ready for customs clearance on Wednesday, March 30, 2011,” said Dave Milligan, owner of Get Routed.

“Two years ago we advertised a shipment to Izmir in Turkey and we only received one bike booking because we didn’t allow enough lead time for people to make plans and decisions,” Dave said.

“This time we’re allowing nearly two years’ lead time which should be plenty for people thinking about touring Europe in 2011 on their own bikes – Maggie and I are taking our bikes this time and already have nine mates/couples/ previous clients who want to join us.

“We’ll spend up to seven weeks in Turkey, Greece, Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Slovenia, Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic in that order.

“Then across to England (mid May) and Ireland then to the Isle of Man for the TT. Anyone is welcome to join us, but don’t expect a guided tour.”

Bikes will be return shipped to Australia from Felixstowe in England in one of a series of return shipments in July, August or September, 2011.

All up return cost for the bike will be $3185 on today’s money.

Contact Dave or Maggie on dave@getrouted.com.au for more info or check out www. getrouted.com.au. n

NEWS torque

Classic dirt

RECORD numbers of local, interstate and international vintage motocross riders and enthusiasts attended the Suzuki VMX Classic Dirt 6 over the Queen’s Birthday Weekend, transforming Queensland’s Green Park MX complex into a celebration of the sport’s golden years.

A huge crowd attended the Sunshine Coast Motorcycle Club’s natural terrain track which hosted past and present motocross and dirtbike riders, including a number of former champions to a weekend of non-competitive vintage motocross riding.

Perry Morison, General Manager Motorcycles, Suzuki Australia, said that he was thrilled by the number of riders and the positive feedback generated by the event.

“Since its inception in 2000, Suzuki has seen the merit in supporting these former MX riders, by providing the opportunity to get back into motocross in a non-competitive environment,” Morison said.

Catering for pre-1985 machinery, the event also gave riders the chance to test ride a full range of Suzuki’s latest two stroke and four mstroke models.

“Suzuki has proudly sponsored every Classic Dirt event,” Morison said.

“World MX champions Brad Lackey and Joel Robert, along with this year’s VIP, three-times Mr Motocross Anthony Gunter, have all been major hits with local MX fans.”

Organisers were overwhelmed by the weekend success where vintage trials and enduro riders were also given dedicated riding areas within the Green Park complex.

Planning is now underway for the Suzuku VMX Classic Dirt 7 scheduled for mid 2010. n

Honda half-century HONDA celebrated 50 years of World Championship Racing last month and has released a collectable framed illustration which pays homage to the motorcycles that put Honda’s name firmly on the world racing stage. The journey that began in 1959, and includes over 600 World Championship race wins, has been illustrated by Japanese artist Kendge Seevert and framed in Australia.

Seevert is renowned among expert motorcycle enthusiasts for his highly detailed illustrations of world class racing cars and motorcycles, and for his ability to painstakingly research his subject material to maintain historical accuracy.

The limited edition frame features illustrations of 18 race bikes and three Production racing motorcycles, starting with the 1959 RC142 Naomi Taniguchi raced to 6th place at Honda’s first Isle of Man, through to the 1967 RC181 winner of the Isle of Man TT by Mike Hailwood.

The print is UV protected and displayed on an acid free matte board, in a frame of walnut coloured wood.

Each frame comes with an individually numbered metal plaque.

Recommended retail price for the 837mm x 1035mm frame is $499 and only 250 are available at Honda dealerships nationwide. n

Mat Mladin Imports on a new track MAT Mladin Imports is closing its doors and will re-launch on July 1 as Bike Gear Warehouse.

Mladin, six time AMA Superbike Champion and owner of Bike Gear Warehouse is switching gear and dealing directly with the public.

“Prices of quality motorcycle gear and accessories are much higher in Australia and New Zealand than in the USA,” Mat said.

“Bike Gear Warehouse will cut out the middle man and sell direct to the public at wholesale prices,” he said.

“I expect prices on our quality brands such as Joe Rocket, Yoshimura, Jardione, Vortex, etc to drop by 30 to 50 per cent. This will bring Australian and New Zealand prices down to the level of US prices.

“Supporting our new business will be the most advanced and comprehensive motorcycle accessory website in Australia, www.bikegearwarehouse.com.au,” Mat said.

“We will also launch our brand new warehouse retail outlet in Narellan (south west of Sydney). At 6000 square metres this will be

the largest motorcycle accessory retail warehouse in the Southern Hemisphere.”

Mat Mladin Imports has established a strong brand in Australia over the past eight years with well known brands such as Joe Rocket, Yoshimura, Jardine, Vortex and many more.

“I also want to raise the bar for customer service in this industry,” Mat continued.

“Bike Gear Warehouse will set new standards for customer service including free shipping to Australia and New Zealand for orders over $200, as well as free size exchange on clothing and apparel ordered from the website.” n

JULY 2009 - 9

NEWS torque

Dorrigo’s new bushranger

THE Mayor of Dorrigo, Mark Troy, will unveil a bushranger of a different kind at The World’s Smallest Motorcycle Museum, located in Juan’s Cafe Del Fuego in Dorrigo at midday on Saturday, July 4.

Big Ned is the work of Mark Walker, a self-taught engineer who has been building bikes all his life.

With little formal education Mark’s creative gift with metal and motor is only surpassed by his tenacity and passion.

“I didn’t know what a lathe was when I first saw one at 15, but I said to my mother that I HAD to have one,” says Mark.

Big Ned is a 3000cc rotary valve, nitro fuel injected v-twin built entirely by hand (and lathe!).

Ned was inspired through a visit by Mark and partner Lynne to an art exhibition by Sidney Nolan in Canberra which featured Nolan’s legendary Ned Kelly portrayals.

Mark has spent a lifetime designing and building many weird and wonderful machines and he will be at the unveiling on July 4 to answer the many questions that will no doubt attend the bike’s unveiling.

Every three months Juan has something different to display at his establishment, often something rare, antique or, this time, unusual.

Motorcycle enthusiasts come from all over the state to visit Juan’s distinctly motorcycle venue, as if the fabulous riding country around Dorrigo and the Coffs Harbour hinterland isn’t enough.

Juan will have some Aussie tucker on hand to feed the masses at lunch and that evening you can even book to attend the three-course Patagonian feast at the Cafe Del Fuego.

For more information contact Juan on 02 6657 2202. n

SMALL torque

Harley gets YouTubed

HARLEY-Davidson has now goneYouTube.

There is awesome footage of Seth Enslow jumping his XR1200 during the Crusty Demons Australian tour. There’s a heap of other videos so check it out at http:// www.youtube.com/harleydavidsonaus.

Yamaha’s Dirty cash

YAMAHA is turning up the heat this winter with up to $1000 in cashbacks available across 13 models of dirt bikes.

The company’s domination of offroad racing and the growing interest in its machines has led to an extension of customer cashback offers on WRFs and YZFs and new offers on TT-Rs as well as a super low Yamaha Motor Finance rate from just 4.99 per cent.

The wins started rolling in when Todd Smith took out the Condo 750 overall and that was followed by an utterly dominant display in the Australian Four Day Enduro, where Yamaha won all the classes it entered and scored the outright victory.

Then Bubba claimed the world and AMA

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SX title on his first season on a YZ450F to give that model back-to-back titles. Does it get any better?

It does for purchasers of blue bikes because in addition to cashback and finance offers, selected models attract additional goodies such as the free plastics kits for WRFs and free hydraulic scissor race stand with the YZ125.

Get into your nearest Yamaha for the best deal on your new bike.

or enough store credit to pay for new gloves, a jacket, boots – or whatever accessory or apparel in the store takes their fancy – according to the purchase price of their bike.

Fraser Motorcycles stores are located in Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong, Melbourne (Ducati City) and Perth. For more details on these offers, visit your nearest store. Only one offer available per motorcycle, and per customer.

Chill out at Frasers

50 years of Nepean

FRASER Motorcycles is taking the chill out of this season by offering hundreds of dollars in store credits or extended warranties for customers who purchase a motorcycle before September 1.

Existing owners are also being enticed to give their bikes a winter warm-over, with Fraser’s offering great deals on servicing as well as incentives on parts and accessories.

Customers who’ve been contemplating a new bike can ride out with hundreds of dollars worth of savings on their bike purchase or 12 month’s Fraser Warranty

THE Nepean Motor Sports Club Ltd will conduct the NSW Senior Dirt Track titles on 29th and 30th August, 2009 at Nepean Raceway. In conjunction with the titles the club will celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Nepean Raceway.

It is the club’s intention of inviting as many old riders from bygone days as possible to join in the celebrations.

The club has planned a celebration dinner on the Saturday night in a marquee which seats 200 people. On Sunday at lunchtime there will be a parade of the old riders. The club also hopes that some

NEWS torque

Motorcycle

art

BILLYART in the UK are in the game of producing fine art – everything from action sport to Aston Martins.

Lately Billyart has produced two motorcycle original paintings, one celebrating 100 years of Triumph, the other 10 years of domination by Carl Fogarty. 1000 each of these numbered prints have been produced and retail for around $90 Australian. But the exciting thing is one lucky person will win the original painting of their respective print when the edition is sold out, via their print number. The original painting is worth around $20,000.

There is a YouTube video showing the paintings and the giveway details, check it out at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C9a8-BAYQMY Carl Fogarty won a race or three, here’s something special to You can also visit Billyart’s website at www.billyart.co.uk. n remember it by.

Hyosung Gets Injected The Hyosung motorcycle range has been given a major facelift and now features fuel-injection across the entire 250cc and 650cc V-twin 2010 model range.

Fuel injection has given the bikes a boost in power. The LAMS approved 650cc EFI models now deliver 40kw, up from 25kw on previous models.

The non-LAMS 650cc versions pump out a healthy 59kw.

“This is great timing for the Hyosung

range. As Australia pulls out of its economic dip, we have a fresh new range for riders both new and experienced,”said Hyosung Australia’s Simon Gloyne. “In 2006 and 2007 the Hyosung GT250R was the top selling 250cc road bike in Australia because of its massive package of features and performance for such a low price.

Now that package has fresh styling and fuel injection across the entire range, we are aiming for the number one spot again.” n

SMALL torque of the old Clubs (many of which are now extinct) will use this occasion as a reunion for their members and bring out their old Club flags and bibs.

The club is also looking for memorabilia to be displayed. All enquiries can be made to Christine Tickner during business hours on 02 4721 4439.

SYM Scoota still growing

SYM Scoota is strengthening its market share despite current downturns, according to SYM’s Managing Director Neil Black. “Our market share grew 10 per cent in the last month alone; this goes to show that the Australian scooter rider is as focused on a good value-for-money product as we are.”

Black has commented there are a number of reasons why this continued growth has occurred, such as the standard four-year warranty, huge range of models and large dealer network. The recently launched

Classic 50 and 125 are proving big sellers, as is the popular VS125.

For more information check out scoota. com.au.

Visions of Vincent

IN 1936 talented Australian designer Phil Irving went to England to work for the Vincent Motorcycle Company. He introduced many design innovations in his pursuit of racing excellence, including radical frame arrangements, new suspension systems and improvements to engine components.

Many of these developments later became standard on racing bikes. In 1999, KHE’s Ken Horner began work on an updated, improved and more powerful version of the Vincent classic.

After its remarkable victories in the 2008 Daytona Twins Championship the Irving Vincent has earned a new respect among motorcycle enthusiasts.

The new Irving Vincent is based on the

1946 Vincent Series-B Rapide.

But the Vincent story is far too big to tell in just this short space, so now you can learn all about the Irving Vincent Custom Motorcycles story on its own dedicated website.

Check it out on www.irvingvincent.com.

Unifilter open day

AUSTRALIA’S world leading air filter manufacturer, Unifilter, is holding an open day where you can check out all the new filters and how they are made. For all you tech heads it will be very interesting to see the technology involved in the manufacturing process.

Besides that a number of top MX riders will also be on hand to chat to and sign autographs.

The open day will run from 11am to 2pm on Saturday July 25 at 5/373 Manns Rd, West Gosford, NSW. Check it out. n

JULY 2009 - 11

Cycle Torque test – Victory Vision

TEST BY

‘Auntie’ Mal Cherlin

PHOTOS BY www. JohnTurton.com

Substantial, imposing, supremely comfortable and surprisingly quick.

The Vision is a victory for heavy touring THE imposing Victory Vision Tour is a heavyweight luxury touring motorcycle, in the American mode.

Unique in its design which is essentially retro – the lines are ’50s American automotive – but at the same time focuses forward to the future rather than looking to the past.

Victory Motorcycles has been up and running for 10 years in its country of origin, but only a couple of years here in Oz. Like many riders I had all kinds of prejudices about this bike, and I’m pleased to say, it took me away riding and widened my horizons about heavy full dress tourers and 400km hops between stops!

This bike is the Vision Tour – also available is the Vision Street, much the same although without the huge top-box, which changes the style of the bike considerably, making it look

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sleeker in a massive sort of way.

An engineering victory The engine is called the “Freedom V-twin”.

It’s a 106 cubic inch (1731cc), oil/air cooled, fuel injected, ohc, 4-valve, 6-speeder. Top gear is a genuine overdrive, and final drive duties are by silent, efficient belt. Brakes are linked via the foot brake and the three discs with multi-spot calipers work extremely well.

Fuel capacity is prodigious at 23 litres, and ‘sensible’ riding, on or south of 120km/h will see 400km per refill. This is where the engine-fueling-transmission all talk together nicely. 2700rpm in top at 120k, and 2200rpm or so at 100k. The Vision only had a thousand kilometres on it when I took it over, so, not run in. The gearbox and engine both freed up substantially in the next 2000km, delivering the promise of plush grunty power and direct almost silent gear changes (if you’re smooth).

This is one comfortable bike. There is an

electric screen which enables you to keep riding, flipping your dark visor up as the sun goes down. Fine servo assisted adjustment will let you peer over the top edge of the screen without windblast watering your eyes.

No need to stop and put on a clear visor. In fact there are so many elements in the bike’s integrated design that coalesce allowing the pilot to simply keep riding. There are heated grips and saddle, a number of combinations for both, cruise control (don’t knock it until you’ve tried it), am/fm radio, CD, CB, and intercom options, all in quadraphonic sound, of course. There is auxiliary audio input, and a number of power outlets, and the top box has a switchable convenience light. The fuel cap has a ‘nest’ and is secreted on the right hand side of the ‘tank’, opened by turning the ignition key. The real tank forms a hollow inner curtain around the void created by the styled nose and side bodywork. On the opposite side there is a similar ‘press to

open’ storage panel, where the aux - iPod – connection nestles. The instruments are clear and look fantastic in a bright blue glow. As does the illuminated ‘Victory’ badge on either side of the bike. The options button situated where most bikes have their headlight flasher will give you time, two trip metres, distance to empty/ range, fuel economy, ambient temperature, and on, and on… amazing. The headlight is very powerful, having breadth and penetration, then there’s high beam!

The ride to freedom I did about 2000km on the ‘Enterprise’ as she became known. Down the Hume to Winton Raceway for the FX and BEARS, then back via the hills around Rosewood, Tumbarumba, Wondalga, Tumut, and Adelong. These were quiet secondary roads, undulating, scenic hill country, little or no traffic, a few bumps, a little dirt and a complete contrast to the bike’s intended route? On dead smooth road the Vision is dead smooth. Elsewhere it is surprisingly good, the cruiser maintains its composure and simply gets on with the job. There is

a pneumatic rear suspension adjustment calculated on weight. The recommended psi rating for me and luggage was about 35psi, I knocked 10 off that, in the rough, and was rewarded with real comfort.

When pressing on, the Victory holds its line, brakes nicely, stand on the linked rear, use the hand brake optionally, and it washes off speed and shrugs off the bulk. Ground clearance is excellent. Didn’t touch it down at Winton on two demo laps, or on the road anywhere else.

I have ridden ordinary motorcycles with less ground clearance than the Victory. The excellent Dunlop Elites must take some credit here, as well as the sensible 180 size on the back. You’ll never turn our 385kg Enterprise into a razor sharp 125, but it had no tendency to understeer, and answered the helm nicely. The wide chromed ’bars, complete with fluted shafts to prevent flexing, are also part of the package here. Impressive.

At Winton there were comments about the exhaust note, which is circumspect at low throttle applications but develops a meaty rumble north of that. It will whistle up to an

More lights than a prime mover.

‘Houston, we have ignition…’

JULY 2009 - 13

Cycle Torque test – Victory Vision (cont.)

Holbrook I was spoken to by Plod. They were just interested in the Enterprise. In Nelson Bay I was unable to sit and have a feed, due to the constant stream of riders and non-riders who surrounded the bike and had a million questions. It was the same everywhere during my time with the Vision.

People wanted to know all about it. Even hardened sportsbike riders seemed, to some extent, ‘charmed’ by the styling. We are in a subjective area here, however there is no doubt this is a very distinctive motorcycle, unique? The Arlen Ness organisation in the U.S. were substantially responsible for the look, everyday folk and long term riders alike, seem impressed. “Wow!” exclaimed one enthusiast, “it looks like a cross between a Studebaker and the Opera House!”, both iconic, unique designs… others mentioned Cadillac etc. Interestingly, there are a number of drawings, done during the evolution of the design, some ‘chubbier’, some even more ‘elongated and elegant’. The 10 years of motorcycle manufacture, design and distribution started back in ’99 with a 92c.i.

Victory, born, appropriately enough on the 4th of July, the ‘new’ American motorcycle.

What do I think? indicated 185km/h in top gear but out of respect for the engine’s youth we decided not to explore if it would go harder. This heavy tourer is not slow, it is brisk in the real world.

It also gave the impression it would sit on the old ton all day and night. There is a pipe option, and a host of other goodies, including GPS. There is also a reverse gear, and it’s one I’d recommend you seriously consider given the size of the bike.

Enterprise was not so configured, however, as a result, the super pillion got pushing duties whenever the topography of the land or the judgement of the rider determined the sheer physics of the situation meant getting real.

Smart extras Part of the design are the ‘anti-tip’ fins, fore and aft, on both sides. This practical element means in the event of a foot sliding or another ‘moment’, at low speed, the bike will settle happily on its anti-tip fins, while you regain your composure, heft on the ’bars

14 - JULY 2009

and straighten your thigh to prop the whole show vertical again. Simple, and welcome.

This stops the bike toppling right over. The sidestand has a wide foot, is rock solid and tucked away (doesn’t scrape), when not deployed.

The super pillion loved Enterprise. The look, the comfort, the convenience of the capacious luggage. The dual zone heated seat, and the hand holds either side. The styling around the integral side cases means the actual storage appears less than expected.

In reality, I shoved the same amount of gear in them I regularly do in my own road bike, which has cases often described as big. The lids open ‘softly’ with the aid of gas struts.

The top box is huge and contains not only the CD unit but room for at least two helmets and with the addition of the ‘lid space’, like the side cases, offers prodigious load capacity.

Travelling roadshow There was a lot of interest in the bike. In

This motorcycle delivers. It is very comfortable, and convenient. It can straddle 400km or so, at a time. It could do Sydney to Melbourne, near as damn it, in one stop, if needed. In heavy rain, wet weather gear is almost unnecessary, in cold conditions heated goodies fight fatigue and allow pilot and passenger to continue, safely. It gets pretty good fuel economy, around 50mpg, in the old money, at best and 45mpg is a doddle. There is enough sheer torque, one or two up, to cope with any sensible overtaking manoeuvre or long distance, relaxed high speed tour. The engine/ fueling/transmission/chassis combine to deliver character but not at the expense of function. This machine is able to take a virtual heavy tourer ‘sceptic’ and highlight the upside of luxury touring, without leaving its undercarriage all over the planet surface, as evidence.

Cosmetically, it makes an individual statement unlike all the incumbents in this portion of the market place. The fit, finish,

and attention to detail are excellent. However I would respectfully request Mr Victory place the air fitting for the rear suspension in the right hand side pannier, instead of the left.

It would be so much easier to access and read the weight table in our right hand drive market as the bike leans left at rest, pointing the valve and its settings chart down and away from you. Alternatively, fit a right hand stand? Further, perhaps dealers could fit right-angled tyre valves, as the rear is particularly challenging when using service station air pumps, the rear belt sprocket is very close and a change of valve angle would instantly cure this characteristic. Finally, to “ABS or not to ABS”? The linked brake

system is a beauty, especially when practised and augmented with the hand brake, it really stops! Just wondering if the market might expect ABS on the near $40k flagship?

If it’s possible for a bike that was never on my radar to suddenly make me take notice, to the point where there may be some affection, certainly, respect for it, I must confess maybe I haven’t previously given this type of machine a stronger look.

There is so much to like on the one hand, and enjoy on the other, with this particular motorcycling solution. When it comes to high wide and handsome full dressers, for design, for form following function, for uniqueness, this vision is a victory for the marque. n

S p ec i f i cat i o n s: 2009 Victory vision tour Engine Type: Air/oil cooled SOHC four-stroke 50-degree V-twin with 4 valves per cylinder 1731cc Transmission: six speed/belt drive Fuel Capacity: 22.7 Litres Frame Type: Alloy backbone Seat Height: 673mm Dry Weight: 385kg Front Suspension: 43mm conventional forks with 130mm of travel Rear Suspension: Single air-adjustable shock, 120mm travel Brakes: Floating discs, three piston calipers/ Single disc, twin piston caliper Tyres: 130/70-18, 180/60-16 Dunlop Price (RRP): $36,595 + ORC Call for a quote today free CALL

1 800 24 34 64

Your Motorcycle Insurance Specialists

Web: www.victorymotorcycles.com.au

Huge top box, not so huge panniers.

JULY 2009 - 15

Euro burger 16 - JULY 2009

–

Cycle Torque test – Husaberg FE 570 TEST BY

Pickett & Ryan Murrell

PHOTOS BY

Paterson

RIDING GEAR: MSR nylons, Sidi boots

Look at the well troDden path then go in the other direction – the Husaberg way.

HUSABERG doesn’t bother making twostrokes or even small bore four-strokes.

Its enduro range starts with the FE450 and ends with the FE570. The 570 might be a big bike in capacity and horsepower terms but somehow Husaberg has managed to keep the small bike feel to a large degree.

On the stand

One look at the FE570 will quickly give you the impression this bike is made for one thing only – snarling through the bush at a nosebleeding rate. Well it does that, but like any big-bore it doesn’t feel like that when you are riding it. But one thing is for certain, take your eyes off the game and you’ll find yourself arriving at a corner much faster than anticipated.

Husaberg’s mantra has always been to approach things differently. The factory might arrive at the same place as other manufacturers but just come from a slightly different direction. With the new 450 and 570 the direction has been totally different.

The main point of focus on the new 2009 FE range is the engine, with a 70 degree overhead cam single that has the crankshaft above the gearbox it stands out just a little. This isn’t the first time a manufacturer has designed a single cylinder engine fairly close to this basic

design, they have been around for well over 40 years, but it’s the first time anyone has been able to build one so compact.

The idea behind it all is to design and position the engine to be as close to the centre of gravity as possible, improving handling in the process. The gearbox sits in the bottom of the crankcases, along with the clutch and ancillary mechanicals.

Directly above sits the crankshaft, with a fairly big flywheel, and the short stroke piston reaches out along with the cylinder at a 70 degree angle. A very shallow valve angle is used (titanium inlet valves) and Husaberg’s press blurb says the engine has also been designed to be maintenance friendly, with regular servicing needs easily accessible. Fuelling the beast is a Keihin engine management system which uses a 42mm throttle body. Of course the engine design allows a near vertical intake and there are two map settings available. To access this you need to buy a Map Select Switch which is a standard Husaberg part. Starting is electric only, so if you have a flat battery in a huge gully you are in a little trouble.

In the past Cycle Torque testers have been critical of some exhaust systems on off-road bikes, both in crash damage and the ability to burn the hell out of your nylons. The FE570’s stainless steel header

pipe is the opposite, neatly tucked out of the way. It doesn’t look too bad either.

Noise Nazis will like the exhaust too, the alloy muffler does a good job of keeping the noise at bay without sounding like a vacuum.

Now some air filters can be an absolute pain in the nether regions to get to, but not so on the FE 570. It’s as simple as lifting the seat and releasing the clip. This is where the engine layout helps also, the downdraft intake allows the filter to be placed directly above the engine, not squeezed down between the frame rails.

Dead set, this is one of the easiest filters to clean that we’ve ever come accross, and the seat seals the airbox – simple. While we are dealing with the intake system we should talk about the 8.5 litre fuel tank.

It’s transparent so checking your fuel level is child’s play. The fuel is delivered by a fuel pump which sits under the tank.

Acting as a place for all the go gear to sit is the chrome-moly frame and the neat polyethylene subframe which has hand holds and tucked away spots for electrical components moulded in.

Suspension wise we have 48mm WP upside down forks (300mm travel) which are fully adjustable and sit in massive CNC machined triple clamps. Down back a WP PDS shock (335mm travel) attaches

JULY 2009 - 17

Cycle Torque test – Husaberg FE 570 S p ec i f i cat i o n s : 2009 Husaberg FE 570 Engine Type: Liquid cooled 4-stroke, single cylinder Valves: Four Bore and Stroke: 100mm x 72mm Compression Ratio: 11.8:1 Fuel induction: Keihin EFI Ignition: Electronic Transmission: 6 speed Fuel Capacity: 8.5 Litres Capacity: 449cc Final Drive: Chain Frame Type: CrMo double cradle, Cross-linked Polyethylene (PE) subframe Seat Height: 985mm Wheelbase: 1475mm Dry Weight: 114.5kg Front Suspension: 48mm USD WP forks/300mm travel Rear Suspension: WP PDS shock/335mm travel Front Brake: 260mm disc Rear Brake: 220mm disc Tyres: 90/90-21/140/80-18 Price (RRP): $13,699 Web: www.husaberg.com

itself to the frame and alloy swingarm and is adjustable for rebound damping and high/low speed compression damping.

Brembo brakes pull you up, and tyre sizes are 90/90-21 and a fat 140/80-18.

Other notable weights and dimensions are a seat height of 985mm, ground clearance 390mm, wheelbase 1475mm and a dry weight 114.5kg. And lastly how good does this jigger look? You could say that in the past Husabergs have usually had a retro look but not now. It’s modern and in the blue/white/yellow colour scheme looks horn.

The ride

A serious bike needs a serious rider so we put up and coming enduro racer Ryan Murrell in the hot seat to put the big ’berg

Above left to right: CEV switches are sturdy and built to cope with dirt and dust.

The right hand side of the unusual design.

PDS-style shock mount.

Marzocchi Shiver forks are leading edge technology.

18 - JULY 2009

through its paces. Ryan normally punts a 250cc KTM EXC-F and while he’s not foreign to big bore enduro machines, they aren’t his everyday ride. Here’s what he had to say.

“When I started the Husaberg I noticed it had a quiet but grunty sound. For a big bike it has a very streamlined stance, and the 70 degree engine is something else looks wise, it really does stand out.

“The power was a real big surprise, there’s plenty of it, but it still has a very usable power curve. No matter what the situation it had power to get me out of trouble, and into it on a couple of occasions as well.

“The suspension was a massive stand out. It soaked everything up although being a bit on the soft side it bottomed out a couple of times. With a couple of adjustments I think it would be almost perfect for me.

“The steering and handling of the bike was quite surprising to me although being a bigger bike it turned and drove out of corners just as good as any lighter more nimble two-stroke or smaller bore four-stroke.

“The brakes and the clutch were great – anything by Brembro is great – and it

really meshed in nice with the overall product. The clutch was slightly vague but still nice and light on your hand and could be ridden with all day long.

“I found the weight was the only let down for me when stuck on a snotty up or downhill or where it is hard to touch the ground. It was slightly on the heavier side although it all depends on the rider and conditions. When riding on fast open trails I have never been so comfortable, the bike was so stable and such a confidence booster to me. I think any rider who rode it would get the same feeling.”

Verdict

On the technical side the FE 570 is a very advanced motorcycle. For the trail rider, especially the heavier set ones, it is easy to ride fast and not too tiring after a decent day in the saddle.

For the racer, it’s obvious young Ryan Murrell was impressed with the bike’s capabilities.

If you want to ride something different, bikes don’t come more different than the new breed of Husaberg. n

JULY 2009 - 19

RACE torque

Talking Skills AS THE Northern Hemsiphere heads into summer, it’s a good time to run the ruler over the world’s best road racers, and decide who’s hot and who’s not in the first term at the University of Adversity.

Casey Stoner has proven to be the most consistent of the front runners in MotoGP, and led the title chase going into Catalunya.

The Ducati star is the only rider in the top four not to have crashed in a race by round six, and appears to be growing happier and more confident with every race. With two wins under his belt, Stoner heads into the middle of the season with plenty of momentum, and unscuffed leathers.

Without ever wanting to discount Valentino Rossi, his Fiat Yamaha team-mate Jorge Lorenzo has clearly out-pointed the six-time MotoGP world champion in the opening term of 2009, with wins at Japan and France. Jorge appears

to be striking a better balance between aggression and patience following the Lorenzo-land crashfest of 2008, while Dani Pedrosa’s fortunes continue to fall as fast as his Repsol Honda, with yet another nasty injury this time at Mugello badly denting his confidence and general physical state which has been way below par since Sachensring in 2008. This year’s winner will come down to a spectacular threecornered contest between the two flamboyant Latins, Lorenzo and Rossi, and the brilliant Aussie battler himself, Casey. Should be a rip-snorter finish to what was always going to be very tightly fought battle for title of ‘the best rider on Earth’.

Alvaro Bautista holds a narrow lead in 250 GP over Hiroshi Aoyama, with defending champ Marco Simoncelli playing somewhat of a spoiling role after returning from an off-season injury. If he wins the title this year, former

Jorge Lorenzo (above), Casey Stoner and Valentino Rossi are tied for the lead in MotoGP after round 6.

20 - JULY 2009

125cc world champ Bautista will become the last rider to claim the final full-grid 250cc world championship, with the spectre of something called ‘Moto2’ just around the corner.

Can Bradley Smith break a 32-year duck, and claim a world grand prix championship for Mother England in 2009? Smith has been the form rider of the quarter-litre class this year with wins at Spain and Italy, but he had only a 3.5 point lead over Bancaja Aspar team-mate, Julian Simon, going into Montmelo. Even in an Ashes year, many Australian fans will be willing the young lad on to become the first British GP champ since the late Barry Sheene in 1977.

Noriyuki Haga, likewise, could become the first Japanese rider to claim the World Superbike Championship. Nori came very close in 2000, but was thwarted when he tested positive to Ephedrine, and was banned for several races (it was later learned that Ephedrine occurs naturally in the herbs used in the Ma Huang supplement that he took during the off-season).

He missed out on the 2007 title by just two points, having being scuttled by an impetuous Max Biaggi at Misano. Now with the Xerox Ducati 1198 at his disposal, Nori was a shoe-in for his and the rising sun’s first WSBK title, right? Cue Ben Spies.

The Texan WSBK

debutante cut a swathe through the paddock’s best from the get-go, reeling off seven consecutive poles starting at Phillip Island.

But a couple of spills and a few inexplicable technical issues have turned Spies’ title hopes sour, his double home-town win at Miller notwithstanding. Despite the impressive and some would say overdue form of Haga’s team-mate, Michel Fabrizio, the 2009 WSBK is destined to become a twohorse race between Nitro Nori and Big Ben. Whoever wins will create history – by claiming either the first WSBK rider’s championship on a Yamaha, or the first for a Japanese pilot. It is refreshing that WSBK has had a rider the calibre of Spies to help fill the void of the irreplaceable Troy Bayliss.

Cal Crutchlow could create history all of his own, and become the first Briton to win the WSS championship, equally impressive as it is the Yamaha rider’s first year in arguably the most cut-throat class of racing in the world. Crutchlow and his main protagonist, Northern Ireland’s Eugene Laverty, are incredibly fast, very consistent and mighty tough. What’s more, they don’t crash.

These two rookies have handed a lesson to the WSS establishment, the pillars of which has been the Ten Kate team and its world championship

TORQUING BACK riders, Andrew Pitt and Kenan Sofuoglu. The Turk reclaimed a little lost pride for the old guard with an argy-bargy win at Miller, but the Cal and Gene show will determine the outcome of this year’s title chase, and signal the end of Ten Kate’s dominance.

Season’s end will see either Yamaha’s first championship since Joerg Teuchert’s in 2000, or an emotional win for the Parkalgar Honda team, which tragically lost Craig Jones at Brands Hatch in 2008. Kenan and Pitty will need to dig deep to upset the UK-rider apple cart, and hopefully Atcho and Westy can join the party as well. Both riders have scored podiums in 2009, proving they belong at the pointy end of the hottest WSS field in years.

Locally, defending champ Glenn Allerton has backed up well in the 2009 ASBK with an impressive all-round display at Queensland Raceway, but is destined to have Josh Waters’ Suzuki and Honda team-mate Wayne Maxwell breathing down his neck for the rest of the year. The Supersport Championship looks like being a two-horse race between Yamaha team-mates, two-time champion Jamie Stauffer and Bryan Staring, following the tragic passing of one-time series leader, Judd Greedy. Pat Medcalf kept his winning Superstock 1000 record intact at the paper clip on his Yamaha R1, while Yamaha R6-mounted Rick Olson has a handy buffer in the Superstock 600s. Blake Leigh-Smith is well positioned to defend his 2008 Australian 125 Championship. Well done, gentlemen.

– Darryl Flack

LETTERS

Guns and Roses

I RECENTLY read your “Paranoia and Dwindling Numbers”, editorial in the June issue of CT. I would just like to say that if law abiding motorcycle www.dragginjeans.net riders feel they are getting a rough deal because of the actions of a minority of outlaw motor cycle gang (OMCG) members, bad luck, get used to it!

In 1996 myself and 700,000 odd other Australian LAFOs (law abiding firearm owners) were blamed and then held responsible by our media, politicians and the dumb public (maybe even you), for the actions of one unlicensed madman!

After the OMCG bashing murder of the person at Sydney airport, I personally rang up the local ABC radio station (on several occasions) and joined the throng of ignorant and reactionary public (read - “Sheeple”), who were unable to cope with what was happening on their streets.

I suggested that since I hadn’t heard any person from the “Coalitian for Motorcycle Control” (CMC), I demanded on their (CMC) behalf, that there be a mandatory “Motorcycle Buy Back Scheme”, especially those noisy, evil looking black ones.

Surely that would make Australia a safer place and solve the OMCG problem? I couldn’t believe the response that I had from one ignorant journalist who suggested, “But that would affect normal, law abiding bike riders”! My response was that you didn’t even care what effect a similar ban had on LAFOs in 1996!

I hope you can post this in a future letters section just to show the rest of your readers how fickle their interest, passion or employment can be affected by a deceitful media, politicians and a Dumb As Dog Shit (DADS) public!

John Bladen ACT. Funny thing was the crims always seemed to have access to weapons after the buy back scheme. Maybe they didn’t hand theirs in. -Ed

Cast Iron Mistake

Your XR1200 test was interesting. Chris Pickett may be able to string a story together but it appears he has absolutely no mechanical sense whatsoever. Harley-Davidson still using a cast iron V-twin 45 degree engine? HD haven’t been using cast iron since the early 1980s. The engine in the XR1200 is an all alloy V-twin. They have been for over 20 years. The XR also has some new interesting features like oil cooling around the exhaust ports and downdraft throttle body injection but who wants to hear boring stuff like that? The main problem with the XR is that it’s just too heavy.

250kg is a dry weight figure! 250kg is not an XR, more like a FLH. The XR1200 should have been something special, not an overweight chick in a nice dress.

Write A Letter!

WIN A PAIR OF DRAGGIN JEANS

The world famous Draggin Jeans, for men and women, are lined with soft-knitted Kevlar Unobtanium, a manmade fibre which offers incredible abrasion, cut and heat resistance while providing a soft and comfortable feel. So, if you’ve got something you’ve been just itching to share with the crew at Cycle Torque and our many readers, now’s your chance to do it and be in the running for the fabulous Draggin Jeans valued at $250.

Send your letters (and or great bike pictures) to The Editor, Cycle Torque, PO Box 687 Warners Bay, NSW 2282 or email chris@cycletorque.com.au This month’s winner

JULY 2009 - 21

TORQUING BACK LETTERS

More Online

I HAVE been a regular reader of the magazine for some years now, and just wanted to congratulate you for the terrific job you do. It is my first visit to www.cycletorque. com.au, and I can’t believe you actually have the mag available online as well!

Excellent site by the way – you guys are tops! I will still be picking up my monthly copy from my favourite Honda dealer (Metro Honda Ringwood Vic) as nothing beats the real thing! Thank you again for giving riders on a tight budget a chance to be up to date with our much loved passion. Keep up the good work.

Serge Piastra Referring to the editorial in the May issue relating to ride days: I do not think

22 - JULY 2009

you understand what ride days are about.

It is for the public on their road bikes to have some fun.

Except for class A and maybe B the other two classes are not there for wanna be racers to go screaming around expecting everyone else to get out of their way. You should have explained more precisely to Circuit Breakers what you were planning to do. They are, as you said, very understanding. Plus at the pre-ride meeting they inform everyone that no under taking was allowed and that every one out there is out for fun at different expertise.

I have been to Ride Days, on a Hyosung GT650, and I also would have given your son a dirty look if he had tried a silly thing like that. I’ve been behind slow riders, but just have to wait to a straight to overtake. No big deal. Also, strange I’ve been to quite a few ride days and never seen anybody get heated about other racers.

John Faithfull

Cycle Torque goes digital

Editor CHRIS PICKETT PUBLISHER Nigel Paterson Design & PRODUCTION Dionne Hagan, THE D MEDIA DESIGN Advertising Vic: Brian Sullivan, 03 9530 9990 Other States: DENNIS PENZO, 0420 319 335 dennis@cycletorque.com.au Accounts Rebecca Eastment bec@cycletorque.com.au CAB AUDIT Regular contributors: Darryl Flack, Bob Guntrip, Keith Muir, Darren Smart, Todd Reed, Friedemann Kirn, WWW.2SNAP.COM.

Membership B Cycle Torque

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If you can’t find our latest issue, call 0420 319 The CAB brand which has 335. been servic synonomous with credibility and accou Subscriptions are available. $24.95 per year, call 0420 319 335 for details.

Copyright 2006. All reserved. part oftoo can Asrights a member of theNo CAB you this publication may be reproduced including a CAB Member Badge on all in any form, including electronic, without sales flyers and newsletters. written permission of the publisher.

on Guide

T J Slayter You caught me out, all those years of working on road racing bikes in my spare time and doing a mechanical trade taught me nothing it seems. Seriously though, the ‘cast iron’ reference was supposed to be a comment about how it felt, not what is was actually made of somehow it all got lost in proofing due to an ever-looming deadline.

Our mistake, we should take more care. Our apologies to all those concerned, but at least you think I can string a few words together.

I can take some comfort in that.

Chris Pickett

I HAVEN’T the time to grab your mag from the bike shops so having this great publication online is fantastic.

Keep it up.

Geoff I’Dell

PLEASE CONTACT THE EDITOR BEFORE SUBMITTING FREELANCE CONTRIBUTIONS. Using the badge will reinforce you

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INFORMATION FROM OUR ADVERTISERS 1

Bright sparks

DELKEVIC Australia has a new range of standard, semi and fully sealed batteries to suit most current popular models of bikes. The batteries are priced well below many others on the market and come with a six-month manufacturer’s warranty.

Trade inquiries welcome.

Price: From $55.50 depending on model.

Available from: Direct from Delkevic Australia More info: 1300 457 878 www.delkevic.com.au

2

Racey Motologic gear

THE Motologic race gear worn by the Australian Superbike Championhsip race team is now available from Honda dealerships nationwide. The striking red and white colour scheme is worn by the entire team. The Motologic gear is comfortable, tough and vented to help the fabric breathe. The range includes Pit Shirt, Team Polo, Light Jacket, Two-in-One Team Jacket (includes inner vest) and Team Cap. Price: Shirt $89.

Available from: Honda dealerships More info: www.honda.com.au 3

1

2

Riding up

THE new Storm handguard from Rideworx, the famous Barkbusters manufacturer, is designed especially for wind and weather protection on street bikes. A new single point universal mounting system for street bikes is available with the plastics in one kit to fit most bikes with 7/8� (22.2mm) handlebars and can be fitted or removed in minutes. For adventure bikes such as the BMW F 800 GS or Honda Transalp the Storm fits directly to the Barkbusters VPS (Variable Protection System) so you can retro fit the Storm plastics.

Price: From $120 black, chrome $175 Available from: All good bike shops More info: 02 4271 8244 www.barkbusters.net

3

JULY 2009 - 23

INFORMATION FROM OUR ADVERTISERS 5

4

Hot Ninja

MC PERFORMANCE has a hot new sports muffler for the Kawasaki Ninja 250. The pipes comes with a removable baffle and you can get them in steel or carbon fibre. Hot stuff!

Price: S/Steel: $650, C/Fibre: $780 incl postage.

Available from: MC Performance More info: www.mcperformance.com.au

5

Star covering

THIS versatile cover made of urethane coated weather-resistant polyester can protect your investment from the elements. Cover includes a canvas heat shield and handy storage bag. Fits all V-Star models, even those kitted out with accessories.

Price: $195.90 Available from: Yamaha dealers More info: 02 9757 0011 6

4

Ficeda

AXO’s 2009 DART boots have the best from California and Italy with PU coated leather, 3D stitched synthetic instep and heel flex panel, replaceable PU injection moulded buckles, open cavity moulded shin and calf plates, floating buckle housing self-centres for easy closure, steel shank and moulded mid sole - the list of features just goes on and on. The fit and performance heritage of top European footwear combined with the aggressive style of American Motocross.

Price: $299.95 Available from: All good bike shops.

More info: 02 9757 0061 www.ficeda.com.au

6

24 - JULY 2009

TYRE TIME

1

1

Sporting a Demon

PIRELLI Sport Demons are now available for your Kawasaki Ninja 250R. This new generation of Sport Touring tyre in a wide range of sizes fits such bikes as the Ninja 250R, CBR250RR and GS500S. They provide lighter and more precise handling with good stability in all riding conditions with their multiple radius, rear tyre contour. Optimum wet or dry grip without compromising mileage.

Price: Ninja: $125 front, $159 for rear.

Available from: All good bike shops More info: Link International – www.linkint.com.au 2

Getting dirty

THE new Michelin S12 & M12 XC offroad tyres, developed from Michelin’s experience in the Motocross World Championships, provide an even better offroad ride. A new rear rubber mixture improves durability by at least 25 per cent and redesigned casing construction improves traction, feedback and feel.

Price: Fronts start at $119.84, rears at $131.87 Available from: All good bike shops More info: www.michelin.com.au

2

3

Adventure, sport

THE new Maxxis MA-PD Presa Detour tread pattern looks to be made for real adventure tourers who actually cover long stretches of dirt at speed. The high Silica compound in these tyres delivers excellent adhesion and low tread wear on sealed roads. Outstanding wet or dry grip, great stability using large, stable central blocks that don’t squirm under aggressive braking or acceleration. Suited to serious adventure machines.

Price: From $237.45 Available from: All good bike shops More info: 1300 300 191 www.mcleodaccessories.com.au

3

JULY 2009 - 25

Bike Books Triumph Motorcycles

From Speed twin to Bonneville, this book is chock-full of images and information primarily focussed on the classic triumph twins and triples.

Triumph Motorcycles from Speed Twin to Bonneville – $65.00

Doctor Costa Tears & Triumph

Maintaining your ride Essential Guide to

Motorcycle Maintenance

Claudio Costa is the doctor who fixes bike racers. He gets them back out there as quickly as possible: Gardner, Doohan, Agostini, Rossi, Biaggi and many others have all been clients. Here Dr Costa takes a close look at what makes riders tick, offering insight into why they ride and race. It also looks at the Clinca Mobile, the travelling hospital founded by Costa. The book is semiautobiograhical, showing us the man behind the medic.

Doctor Costa Tears & Triumph - $80.00

This book contains a heap of tips and techniques to keep your bike in top condition.

This book also describes in detail how many parts of your motorcycle work and includes hundreds of colour photographs and illustrations.

The essential Guide to Motorcycle Maintenance – $59.95

The Last Hurrah

From Beijing to Arnhem, Des Molloy and Dick Huurdeman rode a 40 year old Panther and an 50 year old Norton halfway across the world in a trip which was part odyssey, part idiocy. This is the great story of the trip.

The Last Hurrah – $39.95

How to Set Up Your Motorcycle Workshop 2 This informative book, now in its second edition, will help you set up your dream motorcycle workshop to make the most of available space, and equip it with the tools necessary to get the job done.

How to Set Up Your Motorcycle Workshop 2 – $44.95

26 - JULY 2009

Blood, Sweat & 2nd Gear Here’s some practical medical advice for motorcyclists delivered with a dry wit. There’s a lot more than just practical first aid here, it’s great background information which is good for any motorcyclist.

Blood, Sweat & 2nd Gear – $34.95

Castrol Six Hour History The Castrol Six Hour Production Race For 18 years, the Castrol Six Hour Production Race was the biggest event on the Australian motorcycling calendar.

Controversial, important and exciting, the Castrol Six Hour Production Race was one of those rare events which had bikes and tyres developed specifically to win it.

The Castrol Six Hour Production Race – $69.95

Geoff Duke The winner of six world titles on British and Italian machinery, Geoff Duke was the first post-war superstar.

Geoff Duke: The Stylish Champion is a hardcover book running to over 250 pages documenting the riding life of the handsome Brit.

Featuring many images of Duke in action, statistics of his results and lots more, this is the definitive guide to one of the most successful racers motorcycling has ever seen.

Geoff Duke: The Stylish Champion

Sale price: $34.95 (normally $59.95)

LIMITED STOCK AVAILABLE!

To Order Call 02 4956 9825 Complete book catalog:

Bonneville

www.issuu.com/cycletorque

The GP Guide

World’s Fastest Motorcycles

The definitive guide to MotoGP, Motocourse is essential reading if you want to really know what happened in the world’s premier road racing championships.

Contains detailed information from teams, riders and journalists you simply won’t find elsewhere.

Superb photography. 2007-2008 features Casey Stoner’s winning year in MotoGP.

An inside look at the famous races at the Bonneville salt flats, this coffee table book is full of great images and interesting writing.

Bonneville - World’s Fastest Motorcycles – $65.00

Motocourse 2008-2009 $139.95 2007-2008 $119.95

JULY 2009 - 27

Bike Books – C Burt Munro Books

Burt Munro, Indian Legend of Speed is the definitive guide to the man who inspired many by making an old Indian go so very, very fast.

Munro is the central character of the movie World’s Fastest Indian, which is a must-see film for anyone with an interest in motorcycles.

One Good Run is a dramatic recreation of Burt’s life and includes numerous images.

Burt Munro, Indian Legend of Speed - $55.00 One Good Run - $29.95 Special offer Both Munro books for $74.95, save $10 Both softbacks

Learn freestyle This book gives you all the ideas and explains the techniques required by every freestyle rider.

With 24 key tricks explained, this Australian book will help you dazzle your friends.

From basic riding to the toughest tricks, it’s all explained here by the people who pull the sickest air.

Ultimate Guide to Freestyle Only $19.95

Building & Rebuilding How to Hop Up and Customize your Softail Learn how to make your Softail really special: install a 90hp big-bore kit, fat rear tyre and lots, lots more.

There’s also sections on lowering your bike, installing new sheet metal and interviews with the Pros. Evo and Twin Cam engines all covered.

How to Hop Up and Customize your Softail – $55.00 28 - JULY 2009

Building Budget Brits

An enjoyable book detailing how to rebuild or restore unit-construction Triumph and BSA twins without having to mortgage your house. With lots of practical advice and moneysaving tips this book will be of interest to anyone looking at restoring any bike, but especially British Twins.

Building Budget Brits – $44.95

Call 02 4956 9820 Touring & Travel

Bitchin’ Bitumen is the sports rider’s guidebook to the East Coast of Australia.

Featuring many great rides from Tasmania to Queensland, Bitchin’ Bitumen will help you find many of the best scratching roads in the country.

Weekend Warriors and Weekend Warriors II are for the Victorian Trail rider, featuring many great riding areas and trails, as well as information about setting up your bike and lots more.

Although they were published a few years ago, they still contain lots of useful information and are now being sold as a pair at a great price.

Essential Guide to Motorcycle Travel This book is written to help motorcyclists prepare themselves and their motorcycle for traveling long distances over extended periods. Whether you are getting ready for a weekend trip beyond your home turf, or for a transcontinental odyssey lasting several years, Coyner’s book details the fundamentals for riding in comfort, safety, and convenience.

Essential Guide to Motorcycle Travel – $49.95

Bitchin’ Bitumen $34.95 Weekend Warriors I & II - $44.95

The Last Hurrah

From Beijing to Arnhem, Des Molloy and Dick Huurdeman rode a 40-year old Panther and a 50-year old Norton halfway across the world in a trip which was part odyssey, part idiocy.

This is the great story of the trip.

The Last Hurrah – $39.95

101 Road Tales

A collection of entertaining columns first published in the USA’s Rider magazine, Clement Salvadori’s tales have been entertaining American riders since 1988. Now, 101 of those engaging Road Tales have been brought together in one book, cleverly illustrated by his longtime friend Gary Brown.

Don’t expect a detailed travel guide to places near and far, but rather a guide to the enjoyment of travelling, especially by motorcycle. These tales are spun by an observant and experienced traveller who can make a quick ride on the back roads near his home just as entertaining as a trip across the country.

101 Road Tales – $44.95 JULY 2009 - 29

Bike Books Tattoo

Tattoo: From Idea To Ink, is an indispensable resource for tattoo artists and collectors alike. The book offers artwork, artists, and suggestions for anyone looking for that perfect piece of art. In addition to a full section filled with original artwork from master tattooists, the book features work by industry legends.

Tattoo – $55 25 Years of Buell

This book was produced to commemorate Buell Motor Company’s 25th anniversary. Illustrated by hundreds of photographs from private collections and corporate archives, it covers Buell’s history from inception to the present. Erik Buell is, of course, at the centre of this inspiring story, but the company has thrived not just because of one energetic, visionary man, but because that man was able to inspire others around him to give 110 percent to their common objectives. This story is as much about the people of Buell as it is the motorcycles of Buell. Both, as you will learn, are remarkable.

Model Portfolios

Covering machines as diverse as the Norton Commando through to Yamaha’s R1, these portfolios are collections of reprints of magazine articles about the featured machine.

Each looks at the history of each model and is a great guide to learning the differences between models.

Ducati 851 & 888 - $44.95 Yamaha YZF-R1, 1998-2006 - $39.95 Suzuki GSX1300R Hayabusa - $44.95 MV Agusta Fours - $44.95 Norton Commando Ultimate Guide - $59.50 All softbacks

25 Years of Buell – $44.95

To Order Call 02 4956 9825 More books at www.issuu.com/cycletorque

30 - JULY 2009

dirty torque

A Step Back In Time I DECIDED to head to Conondale, on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, to check out Classic Dirt 6 over the Queen’s birthday weekend and what I discovered was a world of fantastic pre-1985 motocross machinery being fettled and ridden by a group of fair dinkum dirt bike enthusiasts.

Conondale is a property that has been hosting motocross for as long as I can remember. I raced there for the first time back in 1980 and to this day I have never had a bad day’s racing there.

The track is always awesome, it starts out as a fast grass track and develops into a world of loamy grass-infested berms and deep ruts.

It has hosted the Australian Motocross Championships for many years as well as the Australian Off-Road Series over the last few years and the Thumper Nats before that. And this year it will host the 2009 Australian Vintage Motocross Nationals over the August 8/9 weekend.

Conondale’s lush green rolling hills are perfect to basically peg out a track and let the riders cut loose and with a hill right in the middle it is perfect for spectators to see the whole track so as far as we dirt bike heads go Conondale is the place to ride.

The organisers of Classic Dirt 6 had it completely dialled in with a trials section down in the creek, an enduro loop, a basic

grass track for the older ‘beast’ and is obviously watered each night with a sprinkle of rain scramble machines and keen to add to his leaving each day with already huge trophy a full blown motocross sunshine and a dust cabinet come August track for the lunatics. free track (hey, it’s but as I watched some Classic Dirt 6 is not Queensland, perfect of the other riders a race meeting, it is a gathering of enthusiasts cutting laps it was clear one day… you know the rest). According to Gally won’t have it all who happen to own, some of my old mates his own way. ride and race pre-1985 the camping was also a Gally banged bars dirt bikes. There is a lot of fun despite a bit with Brisbane’s Ricky swap meet, all of the Redding on his YZ250G of rain as some of the tracks are more or less fastest laps were done while Toowoomba’s open all day, there is around the camp fire Brian Flemming was camping with a live after a dozen stubbies. ultra fast on a 1979 band, there are a series After taking a heap Honda CR250 twin of trade stands and of photos it was time shocker as was local Suzuki Australia had to head back to Brissy Shane Assink on a a range of its latest beautifully prepared all and as I drove down the motocrossers there for freeway I was thinking yellow YZ250. the punters to have a that it may be time Out on the main crack on. to start looking for a motocross track there As I walked through ride for the Aussies was up to 40 riders the pits it was like in August, win, lose out on the track at stepping back in time: or draw, cutting loose any given time on there were a few guys around Conondale on everything from old looking over an old something that goes twin shocker scratching BSAs through to firelike a cut snake but breathing uni-trak their heads over the suspended KX500s with turns and stop like a clutch basket trying to semi-trailer sounds like figure out some form of riding abilities ranging a perfect way to spend on going problem while from ‘what are you a weekend. doing out there mate?’ just across the way Now, where is my old there was a quick shade through to Gall going gear bag? gang-busters lap after full of restored vintage lap.

RMs. – Darren Smart Fortunately for Actually, the pits were the Classic Dirt 6 riddled with some of organisers the track the finest machinery I was being beautifully have ever seen, some custom made hybrids, some beautifully restored originals and a handful of dead-set shitboxes. But once on the track it didn’t matter who was on what, there was a smile that could crack a 20-year-old Bell helmet beaming from every face as each rider re-lived ‘better times’.

Stephen Gall was there with what looked like a brand new YZ490 (what else). Gally had a mechanic there helping to set up the Gally (right) and Redding, whose gear makes him look like he’s still in the 1980s.

JULY 2009 - 31

Shiver me Dorsoduro More than a Shiver with Attitude…

TEST BY

Chris Pickett

APRILIA loves its twins, especially the naked ones.

And while the Tuono might be the headline naked model for the Italian firm, the Dorsoduro is right up its tailpipe for real world rideability.

And when you are on to a good thing why not stick with it, right? Cycle Torque tested the 750cc Shiver a while ago now, and everyone who rode it thought it was a great thing – comfortable, good handling and power, while not in the league of its big brother the Tuono, was more than adequate to have a good time.

32 - JULY 2009

PHOTOS BY

Minimalist cockpit is pure street supermoto.

Nigel Paterson

What Aprilia has done is taken the frame, engine and fuel tank of the Shiver and changed styling cues, added longer travel suspension and made the riding position more aggressive – in short it’s turned the Shiver into a monster supermoto machine for the street.

Engine The 750 Federico Martini designed 90 degree six-speed V-twin is a peach. Inside the ultra short stroke fuel injected engine is the usual modern technology – double overhead cams, four valves per pot, you know the drill.

The end result is a shade over 90 horsepower produced at 8750rpm. Now this engine doesn’t mind revving, but it’s nothing like the small bore V-twins from Aprilia’s SXV supermoto range; ride one of those 450 or 550cc jiggers and you’ll know what we mean.

Throttle response from the flyby-wire equipped Dorsoduro is very good for its capacity, it certainly jumps away very briskly when asked. And the fuelling is good too, none of this hunting and surging when you are trying to maintain a constant throttle in traffic or just cruising. Aprilia’s trump card for the bike is the three

stage ECU which allows you to select Standard, Sport or Rain modes. For everyday riding we found the Standard mode best; the power didn’t feel much down on the Sport mode and the throttle response was less finicky. You can easily wheelstand the Dorsoduro in both Sport and Touring modes, the only real difference is the throttle butterflies open slightly quicker in Sport mode than in Touring mode. It’s interesting to note how the suspension was affected by which mode you selected but more on that later. We were lucky – or unlucky depending on where you were sitting –

Grippy MX-style footpegs.

Funky double arm swingarm.

enough to sample the bike in the rain and being able to select the Rain mode was great. Of course experienced riders should be able to ride around safely in the rain without needing such help, but we think the idea has much merit and did give you added confidence in the rain. If you turned this bike into a road racer this would be perfect; a set of rain tyres and with Rain mode selected you’d be near unbeatable.

Suspension and chassis We know the Dorsoduro has longer travel suspension than its stablemate the Shiver (160mm front and rear compared to 120F, 130R) and this translates to a bump-friendly machine.

Out back is the same side-mounted, cantilevered Sachs monoshock as found on the Shiver. The 43mm inverted forks have a 26-degree rake and 108mm of trail. Wheelbase is 1505mm. The forks are adjustable for pre-load plus compression and rebound damping. The shock is adjustable for pre-load and rebound damping only.

When we first got the Dorsoduro we found the suspension quite hard in the bumps, but playing around with the settings softened them for our crap roads. The other thing was when we had the engine mapping mode in Sport, and the suspension settings hard we found the bike would become unsettled mid corner on less than perfect road surfaces, no doubt mostly down the aggressiveness at which the Sport mode works. Select Standard mode with hard suspension settings and it was better in the same conditions. Of course we played around to make the suspension softer and this can cause its own issues but the general message here is the bike really is adjustable on multiple levels.

The regular size 120/70ZR-17 front

tyre is fitted, and out back a 180/55ZR17 wraps around the six inch rim. This might be the norm for sportsbikes but we feel the Dorsoduro would benefit from a slightly smaller rear tyre/rim combo. 160 size tyres are not so easy to get compared to 180s so maybe Aprilia has decided to go with the 180 rear to make life easier for the owner come tyre changing time. Plus it looks phat too.

With a bike this light (185kg) you don’t need monster brakes but Aprilia decided to throw them on anyway.

Radial-mount four-piston calipers up front grab twin 320mm wave discs, while a 240mm disc is given similar treatment by a single-piston caliper at the rear – yes, the Dorsoduro can be stopped in a hurry.

Even though it is quite a small bike it does have a relatively high seat height at 870mm and ’pegs mounted high enough that extreme lean angles can be achieved. This doesn’t make the bike uncomfortable, quite the opposite.

The seat/’pegs/’bars arrangement is spot on for the bike’s intended use.

Even the little headlight mounted screen actually does a half decent job of keeping the windblast at bay. Other neat touches like the handguards and the MX-style radiator shrouds give the Dorsoduro a real racy feel and look.

The final word Aprilia has taken an already good bike and made it different, not necessarily better. One thing is certain though, the Dorsoduro is a blast to ride in the city and out where the roads open up a little. It has plenty of poke and you can ride it in all conditions, you can even tour on it if you wish. The overall quality of finish is good but could be better, there were some signs of cheap fittings. Check one out – you won’t be disappointed. n

S p ec i f i cat i o n s: 2009 Aprilia Dorsoduro SMV 750 Engine Type: Liquid cooled 4-stroke V-Twin, DOHC 4 valves per cylinder Power/Torque: 92hp (67.3kW)/82Nm (8.4kgm) Transmission: six speed/chain drive Fuel Capacity: 12 Litres Frame Type: CrMo double cradle perimeter Seat Height: 870mm Dry Weight: Not Stated Front Suspension: 43mm USD forks, 160mm wheel travel Rear Suspension: Single adjustable shock, 160mm travel Brakes: 320mm floating wave discs, four piston calipers/240mm disc, single caliper Tyres: 120/70-17, 180/55-17 Price (RRP): $15,990 + ORC Call for a quote today free CALL

1 800 24 34 64

Your Motorcycle Insurance Specialists

Web: www.aprilia.com.au

JULY 2009 - 33 Sachs single shock is side mounted.

QUAD

Dakar legend to tackle Australian Safari Polaris wins Finke POLARIS Racing’s Luke Beechey has dominated the final day of the 2009 Finke Desert Race to claim victory in the Quad Division of Australia’s most prestigious enduro event.

Beechey reached Finke in third place on his Polaris Outlaw 525 IRS, just one second behind Polaris Racing’s Aaron Ovens on an Outlaw 450 MXR. On Monday’s return run to Alice Springs Beechey flew home to take the chequered flag in an overall time of five hours and 33 minutes which was 15 minutes faster than his nearest rival.

And Beechey’s sure about what made the difference.

“Out there it’s about power and suspension,” Beechey said.

“The KTM engine was strong through the sand, and the IRS delivered the ground clearance to avoid damage on the rocky sections,” he said.

“I wouldn’t do Finke on a quad without IRS. Everyone knows that IRS soaks up the jump landings, but what they forget is that you also do not get thrown from side to side like you can on a straight axle quad.

“When you’re hitting the desert at 120km/h-plus, nothing rides like a Polaris.”

Polaris Managing director Peter Alexander was particularly pleased with the result.

“I’m ecstatic. We all felt for Luke last year when a final day fuel stop mix-up made second place the only possibility. To Polaris Australia, Finke is the Holy Grail,” Alexander said.

For more information check out www.polarisindustries. com.au. n

34 - JULY 2009

ONE of the legends of endurance racing, fivetime Dakar Rally Quad winner, Josef Machacek, will make his local debut in the Australasian Safari, to be held in the Western Australian outback from August 1 to 8.

Fifty-two year old Machacek has been lured to the Safari, after the Quad Bike category made its debut at the event last year.

The Czech Republic racer has built an impressive record over the past decade. He won the 1999 Desert Challenge before his unparalleled success in the Dakar Rally started in 2000. Victories in 2000, 2001, 2003, 2007 and again in 2009 have made him the king of quad bikes in desert rallies.

Machacek won his fifth Dakar Rally by a margin of two hours and 34 minutes – a huge margin, even in desert racing.

He builds his own bike and runs his own small team, but that hasn’t stopped him achieving incredible success over his long career. He was a 1982 World Motocross Champion, before switching to Quads in 1999.

Machacek will start as the pre-event favourite in Australia, despite this being his first visit to the event.

“Australia is the only continent I haven’t visited,” Machacek said. “This is my big new challenge – getting to know the people on this continent, the great outdoors, the animals, and your special race.

“The Dakar and long distance racing is my life,” the oil company director added.

South African, Vicus Vanderventer, has been instrumental in promoting the event after his strong showing in last year’s Safari, with international numbers expected to climb for the 2009 epic.

This year’s Australasian Safari begins in the Western Australian capital, Perth, with a prologue on Saturday, August 1. The event proper starts the following day.

Auto, motorcycle and quad bike competitors then face over 3500 kilometres of competition over seven days. The Safari will have overnight stops in Geraldton, Mt Magnet, Leonora and Laverton, before finishing in the gold mining city of Kalgoorlie on Saturday, August 8.

For further information on the event, visit the Australasian Safari website at: www.australasiansafari.com. au. n

Wider shorter r e h s u l p faster

Cycle Torque test – Yamaha YFZ450R TEST BY

Shaun Moloney

PHOTOS BY

Nigel Paterson

Race Inspired WITH a shorter wheelbase, longer travel suspension and a wider stance, this new Yamaha ATV is big on handling.

Throw in a fuel injected motor and this YZF450R is ready and willing for any four-wheeled assault.

It has only been around 12 months since Cycle Torque tested the Yamaha YFZ450, but what a difference 12 months has made, making this new ‘R’ model a highly refined and race ready sports quad. Many of the changes may not be immediately apparent upon first sight, but the 2009 model has a host of them, all done to improve handling and performance.

At a glance Yamaha’s YFZ450R sports quad has received a host of upgrades and modifications and there’s no better place to start than the chassis. An all new aluminium main frame is stronger, lighter and shorter to support the new A-arms and rear swingarm, but it is also around 74 millimetres wider which not only gives the cockpit a roomier feel, but makes the YFZ450R much more stable and sure footed. A steel underbody frame is also incorporated into the mix, which provides most of the housing for the 449cc engine. GYTR nerf bars and netting keep the rider’s feet where they should be, as does the 65mm wide footpegs.

With a new frame also comes new suspension, which

includes the A arms with new camber angles and longer travel suspension. The YFZ450R receives KYB 44mm piggyback shocks up front, which have received a Kashima coating to further smooth their operation, and offer almost 250mm of travel. At the rear end, the suspension is again handled by KYB, with a 46 millimetre piggy-back shock offering 275mm of travel to handle the duties. Both the front and rear end shocks are adjustable for high and low speed compression and rebound damping. The wheels and tyres have also been matched to suit the extra width of the YFZ, with the overall width coming in at 1220mm wide, falling just under of the maximum allowable when racing motocross in the U.S. Power for the YFZ450R comes from the tried and tested 449cc five valve engine. For 2009 this motor receives fuel injection from the 42mm Mikuni throttle body set up. The mods don’t stop there as this engine also receives new crank cases, crankshaft and camshafts which improve throttle response and power delivery throughout the rev range.

In the dirt A key ignition and electric start button is all that’s needed to fire the YFZ into life. And when it fires you immediately get the feeling of performance due to the throttle response, and the sound resonating from the GYTR pipe. With the wider chassis, there is plenty of room for the rider to swap sides

JULY 2009 - 35

Cycle Torque test – Yamaha YFZ450R – Continued

Race Inspired

and you never feel cramped in any riding position. Powering up through the five-speed ’box of the 450R it doesn’t take your senses too long to realise this is a real flyer, as the front end will loft without too much effort. Acceleration is very strong right off the bottom and as the revs build so does the excitement of this ATV. This is not a machine for the faint hearted as the motor is very strong in all departments and may be intimidating to the less experienced.

At this point we realised how much better the suspension felt from the previous model, it’s firm but feels much more compliant and user friendly. The machine still felt twitchy to some degree, but due to its handling manners you can hit obstacles with more confidence and speed and it was certainly less tiring after some time in the saddle. Even in very rough and rocky terrain, the YFZ450R remained stable as much as an ATV can, continually giving positive feedback to the rider. We did feel however that some fine tuning with the fuel injection system may be needed due to the addition of the GYTR pipe as the 450R had a tendency to stall from time to time.

At one stage during the test we found ourselves on a very snotty and rocky hill. And even though the engine had a tendency to stall at times, it was very easy to inch the 450R up

36 - JULY 2009

this hill, where plenty of other ATVs would be less happy at such low revs.

Of course being a fairly wide machine, riders looking to hitting the trails will have to make sure there is no single trail as this ATV simply will not fit. However on the flip side we managed to poke our noses through some pristine trail that was simply built for the 450R, where you could hold the throttle wide open and slide it through corners with absolute confidence. With plenty of engine braking on offer, it wasn’t until you really needed to pull up in a hurry that a brake lever or pedal was touched. Up front vented discs with twin piston calipers do their job efficiently as does the single Safety net helps keep your feet where they need wave disc on the to be – away from the wheels. rear.

Conclusion For 2009, Yamaha has really done its homework with the YFZ450R. Although the machine receives a fuel injected engine, we feel the greatest improvements on this ATV comes down to the suspension and handling, which are its strongest points. With this new handling package due to the longer travel suspension and extra width, it is sure to please plenty of riders on the track, where we can see it being a top performer.

This new ‘R’ model whichever way you look at it is ready to race or ride. n

Twin discs up front have more than enough bite for the job.

S p ec i f i cat i o n s : 2009 YAmaha YFZ450R Engine Type: Liquid cooled 4-stroke, single cylinder, 5 valves, DOHC, Dry Sump, EFI (42mm bore), 5 speed, chain final drive Fuel Capacity: 8.5 Litres Capacity: 565.5cc Final Drive: Chain Frame Type: Cast aluminium and steel hybrid chassis Wheelbase: 1270mm Dry Weight: 184kg (inc. 10L of fuel) Suspension: Independent double wishbone, dual rate springs, adjustable dampers.

GYTR lanyard kills the engine if you Price (RRP): $13,999: Limited edition version $14,499 are disconnected from the machine.

Web: www.yamaha-motor.com.au

GYTR pipe is throaty to say the least.

Multi adjustable front shocks work a treat.

JULY 2009 - 37

EDITORIAL

Different strokes EVERY now and then we get a phone call or letter from a reader telling us a test or story is way off the mark. And in regards to a test it usually centres around the fact that the reader doesn’t agree with our opinion. That’s fine, we are all entitled to one.

I’ve long since thought comparing bikes on lap times alone at a track test is a highly flawed method of testing. Lap times are affected by so many variables. And usually we are talking bee’s dick differences anyway.

We rarely test bikes on the track unless we are at a launch. There are many reasons for this. Cost and insurance are two major considerations but as these bikes are road registered then we feel that’s where they should normally be tested.

As I write this I’ve just watched the Motorcycle Movers take away a KTM RC8R, in anyone’s language a highly desirable motorcycle.

The RC8 has been on the receiving end of a lot of criticism, although this second generation is an improvement on the original if you take notice of the motorcycle press.

Yesterday I took the RC8R for a test along a well known stretch of bitumen. It wasn’t the first time I’d ridden it. Some town and freeway miles went under the wheels with me at the controls but soon after we got it I handed the bike over to

38 - JULY 2009

a regular tester of ours, a rider not short on ability.

He was rapt with the bike, going on about the comfort level and the lovely nature of the engine. He’d also read road tests of the bike in other mags and had the opinion they were off the mark, giving it an unnecessary bagging.

Now I like KTMs. We have our own 990 Adventure and I just returned from a six day ride to Queensland, much of it riding a KTM 990 SMT. So I’m no stranger to the brand. I hadn’t ridden the RC8 apart from the initial Australian launch well over a year ago. I enjoyed riding it then and was looking forward to giving this new model some stick. There were flaws with the original RC8, we know that, but the company has worked hard to rectify them.

So, said tester and I head out for a strop along said well known road. After we arrived at the turnaround stop he commented on how hard it was to keep the RC8 in sight. He was riding a current sports tourer, so it’s not comparing apples to apples, but generally I wouldn’t be able to hold a candle to him when he’s having a go. We spoke about how well the bike turned in, the prodigious power it had, the sharp handling and how easy it was to move around the bike with the riding position set for comfort

(the RC8 is well known for its footpeg, seat and handlebar adjustability).

The only slight downside was a touchy throttle and hard suspension settings.

I managed to upset the handling a couple of times by being a little hamfisted.

After a coffee I reluctantly handed the keys over for the return journey. On the way back I expected him to just ride out of sight but I was all over him like a Spitfire over a Messerschmitt.

When we arrived at the end of the windy stuff he stopped got off and said, “I can’t go fast on this bike in the bends, I can’t handle the touchy throttle.”

“OK”, I said and gladly jumped back on the RC8 for the journey home.

What this story is about is not to condemn the bike. I can’t, I think it’s a pearler. It’s not without faults but then again every bike I’ve ever tested has them. What it shows is how two people with slightly different riding styles can come to different conclusions

about one bike.

Who’s right and who’s wrong? No-one really but it also highlights how readers can come to their own conclusions about a bike and then automatically think the magazine got it wrong.

To go fast you need to be comfortable on the bike, and I’m not just talking about the riding position.

How many riders try to bend the bike to their own riding style rather than adjust themselves to suit the bike? Interestingly, MotoGP rider James Toseland commented when he first started on the Yamaha M1 he needed to alter his riding style to suit the M1, not expect the engineers to massively alter the bike to suit him. It might not have worked for him totally just yet. But look at the great Valentino Rossi. He has shown he can ride anything and win. And then you have Casey Stoner and the Ducati. He’s the only rider to come to grips with the machine.

– Chris Pickett

Shannon Johnson rode the RC8 to another podium recently - no wonder the editor likes the bike.

NSW

DON’T MISS

Winter Rally, July 11-12 On private property approx 4kms south of Nerriga on the Nerriga - Braidwood road. $20. Band, fully catered. Plenty of camping space, firewood available, huge bonfire Saturday night. Gymkhana at 3pm Saturday with trophies presented on Sunday morning at 8am. No dogs, glass or bad attitudes.

Always a good rally.

Contact: Send entry form to: U.M.T.C PO Box 800 Campbelltown NSW 2560. Darrel 0418 211 622, James 0401 741 125 or email ken_lisa@bigpond.net.au Kings Rally, August 7-9 Private property on Foxgrove Road, Canyonleigh, approx 7kms from the Hume Highway. $15/$25/$0 children under 15 years. Pre-paid entries in by 1st August, download a form from the web here http://mywebsite. bigpond.com/stuartrudy/ pdf/2009%20Kings%20Rally%20 Flyer%20MKII.pdf .

Gymkhana, bonfire, tattoo comp, toilets, hot showers, sponsored prizes, free tea and coffee, firewood provided, catered hot food and soft drinks, children’s activities, t-shirts, badges. No dogs or glass.

Contact: Ambassadors CMC PO Box 3158 Liverpool NSW 2170 Stu 0437 036 401, John 0412 673 170, info@ambassadors.org.au, www. ambassadors.org.au.

Saucepan Rally, August 14-16 Private property “Innaminckatoo” 4kms Merriwa side of Denman. Signposted from Denman and the Merriwa side. $15 prepaid by 7th August/$20 at the gate. Water, barbecues, firewood supplied plus free tea and coffee. Supplies available at Denman. Live music Saturday night. Clubs only by invitation.

Bushy & Janese 0409 155 932 Ulysses 4th Annual Offroad Motorcycle Rally September 18-29, Tibooburra, NSW Annual meeting and rally in the NSW outback, which includes plenty of fun, raffles and activities to raise funds for the Royal Flying

Doctor Service. The offroad rally is always a big event so get your registration in early. All riders welcome, including non members as committee guests.

For more information contact Alf Lechner 02 9605 4350 or adlec@bigpond.com

ACT Apollo Rally 40th Anniversary of man’s landing on the Moon, July 17-19 At the old Honeysuckle Creek tracking station approx 20kms from Tharwa. $20 inc badge and camping fee. BYO booze; no glass please.

Firewood, water and toilets on site. Catered from Friday dinner.

Awards and raffle. This event is held only every five years; don’t miss it.

Contact: Sarge 02 6296 5561 or 0414 569 626 or email franandken@velocitynet.com.au

VIC Icicle Ride, July 4-5 Now in it’s 29th Year, hosted by the BMW Motorcycle Club of Victoria and open to all bikes and scooters of all sizes. This is a midnight to dawn mystery ride, where a rider navigates their own way from the issued instructions OR joins one of the escorted groups. The ride starts at midnight, Saturday July 04th 2009 from the BP Service Station, Little River situated on the Princess Highway (M1) just before the Avalon Airport turn off, Geelong Bound (Melway ref. aprox. 424 H28). The ride will finish to the North West side of Melbourne, quite close to the city, at around 06:30 am on July 05th. Entry fee includes badge, hot soup and refreshments en-route and a huge cooked breakfast at the completion of the ride. Refueling stops are also enroute.

Registration: $25 per rider, $20 per pillion for early registration.

On the night registration $30 per rider and $25 per pillion. Visit www.bmwmccvic.org.au for more info.

QLD 2nd Granite Gnome Rally, July

3-5 Dalveen Sports Ground.

Dalveen is between Stanthorpe and Warwick.

Proceeds from the rally will be donated to the Dalveen Bush Fire Brigade and to Dalveen community charities.

Annie, Donna or Major Ma email granitegnome@gmail.com or web http://www.freewebs. com/granitegnome/ Inaugural Cooloo Rally, July 10-12 Widgee Rodeo Showgrounds, near Gympie. $20. Lucky door prize, fully catered, raffle, trophies, gymkhana, live band Saturday Duff & Russel, stalls, shops across the road, hot showers, all welcome. Proceeds to local charities. No dogs, glass or attitudes.

Marco & Smiley 07 5482 6284 0438 831 389 or email marco77776@bigpond.com.

Story Bridge Concours, July 19 Story Bridge, Brisbane.

Entries close 10.30am sharp.

Presentations at 2.30pm. $ gold coin donation to make a Wish Foundation ($7,000 raised last year). $1500 for Best In Show and trophies for fourteen classes.

Live music provided by the Dave Ritter Band, dyno shootout, trade and club displays welcome.

Contact: Club Laverda QLD 0401 980 369 or web www. clublaverdaqld.org.

10th Anniversary Tinny Rally.

August 7-9 Tingoora, 22kms north of Kingaroy. $15 inc badge. Fully catered and licensed. Gymkhana and usual trophies. Camping from Friday morning, shaded camp sites, firewood provided. A great social rally with all proceeds to local charities.

Two Dogs & Maneater 07 4164 1224 or email maneater13@gmail. com.

For all the latest video, audio and news go to www.cycletorque.com.au JULY 2009 - 39

MAJOR EVENTS ALL THE

MUST SEE EVENTS BROUGHT TO YOU BY

JLT DIRT BIKE INSURANCE • 1300 655 931 • At home or away...we’ve got you covered • www.jltmotor.com.au/dirtbikes/

J u LY 2009 Motorcycle Road Race Development Association WHEN: Round 3, 4-5 July 2009.

WHERE: Mac Park, SA. WHAT: Motorcycling Australia (MA) has released the dates for the 2009 MRRDA Series and announced the official status of National Cup to the Junior classes within the series in both two and four stroke classes. There’s also 600 superstock, 125GP/250 Mono and 400s. Awesome racing.

CONTACT: www.mrrda.com for more info.

Gold Coast Street & Chopper Motorcycle Show

WHEN: July 11, 2009 WHERE: 23 Machinery Drive, Tweed Heads South.

WHAT: Trophies and prizes up for grabs in 12 categories from classics to choppers, including cash for ‘Best Unrivalled Chopper’. Enter your bike on the day from 10am. Live band, trail riding displays, gates open noon.

Admission $15, kids under 15 free.

CONTACT: 07 5524 8056.

2009 Honda Australian junior Dirt Track Championship

WHEN: July 3-5, 2009 WHERE: Central Coast Junior MCC, Somersby NSW. WHAT: The junior dirt track titles are always action packed, with the little terrors on the 50cc machines up to 250cc four-strokes.

CONTACT: www.ccjuniormotorcycleclub.org.au.

Round 4 PCRA at Oran Park GP Circuit

WHEN: 5th July, 2009 WHERE: Oran Park Raceway, Narellan NSW WHAT: The PCRA will be holding the fourth round of its 2009 season at the Oran Park GP Circuit on Sunday the 5th July, 2009. Don’t miss an action packed day of racing which includes; sidecars, motolites/supalites, historic & pre-modern classes in a fun & relaxed atmosphere. These meetings have historically been very well subscribed and this year will be no exception.

Oran Park is set to close this year, so make the most of your chance to come & watch the type of bikes that were part of the history of this great racing circuit.

CONTACT: Scott Waters on 0425344711 or www. postclassicracing.com.au/pages/home.aspx

Winter Rally

WHEN: July 11-12, 2009 WHERE: 4 kilometres south of Nerriga on the NowraBraidwood Rd. WHAT: Another great rally held in the depths of winter. A band will be on hand for entertainment and refreshments/food will be available. Big bonfire on Saturday night. Entry fee $20.

CONTACT: Phone Darrel 0418 211 622, Jamie 0401 741 125, post entry forms to U.M.T.C PO Box 800 Campbelltown NSW 2560.

Victorian Road Race Championships

WHEN: Rd 2, July 24-25, 2009 WHERE: Winton WHAT: State road racing at its finest, at a track which is great to ride and spectate at. Be there.

CONTACT: www.prestonmcc.com.au.

Australian MX Champs

WHEN: Round 7: July 26, 2009 WHERE: Lakes, Newcastle NSW WHAT: Australia’s best MX stars go at it to prove who’s best on the whoops, berms and tabletops. Some new faces will take on the older guys, like Craig Anderson who’s turned green for 2009 CONTACT: www.ozmotox.com.au or www.ma.org.au.

Macquarie Towns Motorcycle restoration and Preservation Club annual rally

WHEN: July 25/26 WHERE: Windsor area, NSW WHAT: Classic bike, classic bikes and more classic bikes.

The club is running its annual two-day rally which kicks off at 8.30am on Saturday at the Powerboat Club in George St, Windsor. Members of the public are invited to catch the bikes before the’off’ and all classic riders and their bikes are invited to come along.

CONTACT: David Howe (02) 4578 4601 or Clyde Ikin (02) 9654 2068 for entry forms and info.

Running an Event?

Send the details to: chris@cycletorque.com.au

40 - JULY 2009

MAJOR EVENTS ALL THE

MUST SEE EVENTS BROUGHT TO YOU BY

JLT DIRT BIKE INSURANCE • 1300 655 931 • At home or away...we’ve got you covered • www.jltmotor.com.au/dirtbikes/

A U G UST+ Australian Superbike Championships

WHEN: August 7-9, 2009 WHERE: Rd 4, Eastern Creek, Sydney WHAT: For spectacular road racing it’s hard to go past the Aussie Superbike champs, one of the strongest national series in the world. The breeding ground of many of the Australians currently doing well on the world stage, the championship has plenty of young hopefuls taking it up to the older guys like Jamie Stauffer, Kevin Curtain and Shawn Giles. Classes from 125GP right through to the big banger superbikes.

CONTACT: www.asbk.com.au or www.ma.org.au.

Australian Classic MX Championships

WHEN: August 7-9, 2009 WHERE: Green Park Conondale, Qld WHAT: A great look in to yesteryear, with some classic marques liek Maico, Montessa, CCM, Bultaco, SWM and Cotton joining the Japanese brands for some full on action, and some parading too.

CONTACT: www.ma.org.au.

Blue Liners Tumut Charity Ride.

WHEN: September 12-13, 2009 WHERE: Tumut, NSW WHAT: The Blue Liners Touring Motor Cycle Club is resurrecting the Tumut Charity ride of old. Join the ride at Freemans Waterhole, South Western Sydney, Goulburn or Gundagai. All proceeds to local Tumut Charities.

There will be a morning tea break at Goulburn, and lunch and re-grouping at Goulburn for the ride into the Tumut town centre. A function has been arranged on Saturday night at the

racecourse, with catering, live music and bus transport from the hotel/motel strip to and from the venue- just like in the old days! Local service clubs will be providing a hot breakfast at a reasonable price on Sunday morning.

Registration $25 per bike + $25 per person for the function,including bus and meal. Pre-register please.

CONTACT: John Griffith 0418 488 935 or john@turb-o-web.com or visit www. blueliners.com.au. Blue Liners TMCC PO Box 442 Swansea, NSW 2281.

Bendigo Motorcycle Expo

WHEN: October 3-4, 2009 WHERE: Bendigo, Central Victoria WHAT: Sponsored by Shannons, the 2009 Bendigo Motorcycle Expo will take place at the Prince of Wales Showgrounds Exhibition Building and is hoped to become an annual event, with up to 10,000 people attending this year. It is anticipated that the event will feature all the major manufacturers of on and off-road motorcycles, including Yamaha, Honda, Kawasaki, HarleyDavidson, Suzuki, and Triumph, with many scooter distributors also taking part. Customised, drag and race bikes will be other popular exhibits.

Motorcycle accessories manufacturers and distributors will also be out in force with trade stalls showcasing products from helmets and riding-wear to parts, accessories and bike trailers to airbrush artwork.

CONTACT: Geroge Bobbin 0428 510 426 or bmesecretary@gmail.com

Desert to the Snow Postie Bike Challenge

ownership, all meals, fuel, mechanics, spares, support vehicles and air fare home. Route; Brisbane to Melbourne the long way over nine days, 3000+km on an unmodified Honda CT110. A great mix of bitumen, gravel, and sand.

A once in a lifetime adventure and a great equaliser for all types of riders.

This is not a race, it’s a tour with a challenge and a lot of fun. Meet a great bunch of like minded adventurers.

Final celebration dinner and a soft bed at a resort at the destination. As on previous PBCs, in the spirit of goodwill, please voluntarily donate your bike in your name to Rotary at the end.

CONTACT: Dan Gridley, PO Box 287 Spring Hill Qld 4004. 07 3264 7727, www.positebikechallenge.org.

SuperX

WHEN: October 17, 2009 WHERE: Round 1 Aurora Stadium, Launceston, Tasmania; Round 2 Oct 24 Skilled Stadium, Geelong, Victoria; Round 3 Oct 31 Burswood Dome, Perth, WA. WHAT: Chad Reed will return to Australia for the SuperX series, hoping to keep the crwon he won in 2008.

CONTACT: www.superx.com.au.

MotoGP, Australia

WHEN: October 18, 2009 WHERE: Phillip Island, Australia WHAT: The pinnacle of road racing, can Casey Stoner win again or will Rossi and co upset his day? Australian supports will be on the card also.

CONTACT: www.phillipislandcircuit. com.au

WHEN: October 3-12, 2009 WHERE: Brisbane to Melbourne WHAT: $4950 per person includes bike

www.cycletorque.com.au JULY 2009 - 41

ASBK update Honda’s Glenn Allerton leads Suzuki’s Josh Waters.

THE REMODELLED and revitalised Australian Superbike Championship - or simply the Woodstock Bourbon ASBK - is building to an exciting final few rounds as Australia’s best road racers battle for the country’s premier titles.

Three of its seven-round 2009 calendar has been run and won with Honda’s Glenn Allerton leading the championship on his Paul free-fettled CBR1000RR. Allerton will be in action again at Eastern Creek, August 7-9, the only round to be held in NSW this year.

Introduced to the ASBK for the first time this year is Superpole, where the top riders do just one flying lap each to decide their starting grid position, a system the Superbike World Championship used successfully for years. It’s an exciting way to get everyone’s eyes on an individual rider taking it to the edge to find that last fraction of a second which can mean the difference between the front or fourth rows on the grid.

In the races Allerton will be lining up next to past champions and Supersport World Championship runner-up Kevin Curtain, who is back on a Superbike for Kawasaki.

In Queensland recently, Curtain took pole on his ZX10R. “We had a plan of attack for Superpole, and I guess I’ve got a fair bit of experience on my side,” said Curtain.

“It’s good to have a Kawasaki at the front of the pack - we’re getting more competitive every time we go out.”

42 - JULY 2009

Woodstock girls look on during the presentations.

The previous round saw Suzuki young new hotshot, Josh Waters, take pole from Allerton by just two thousandths of a second.

No-one has been able to dominate this year. Allerton leads the championship by just 10 points from Waters, the Honda rider chalking up four wins from six starts. Waters has only won one race so far in 2009, but he’s been on the podium for every race, and consistency makes champions.

Get a free autographed poster from the heroes.

There’s a litany of stars also still very much in the hunt: Wayne Maxwell come Down Under, the ASBK gives (Honda), Shawn Giles (Suzuki), Robbie the public access to the pits - you can Budgen (Suzuki), Craig Coxhell, Jamie get close to the bikes, check out how Stauffer, Curtain, Dan Stauffer and the teams work, get some autographs, youngster Zac Davies make up the top witness up close the podium 10 as we head toward Eastern Creek. presentations and celebrations and really be a part of the atmosphere.

After Eastern Creek ASBK moves More than Superbikes to Mallala in South Australia for The Woodstock Bourbon ASBK is round five, then runs in support of a lot more than Superbikes though. the MotoGP round at Phillip Island In addition to the seven other classes October 15-18 before the final round, a being raced during the championship spectacular twilight meeting planned including Supersport, Superstock (600 for Calder Park in Victoria, November and 1000), 125GP, 250GP mono, FZ6 12-15. If you can’t get to a round, keep Masters and Honda Red Riders Junior Cup, there’s also heaps to see in the pits an eye out for the TV coverage being introduced for ASBK.n and paddock.

Unlike the international events which

Andy Lawson Junior leads Peter Galvin and Blake Leigh-Smith in the 125GP class.

WileyX Bike Pix competition Totti Mao sent us this cool pic of his Yamaha R6.

“This is a photo of my R6 that I just took a few days ago, it was taken just downstairs in my parking area.

I was planning to go out for a ride after a long few days of raining, but after I uncovered the bike and was ready to go, I realised that I had a flat tyre...

I was wondering how that happened and then so disappointed because I was really excited I could go out riding.

Anyway, I then just took this photo downstairs, and then covered it up again.

Hope the raining days can finish soon and then I can take it out get the tyre replaced and enjoy it.

The photo is colour adjusted using Photoshop, hope you guys like it”, said Totti.

Sorry we can’t reply to everyone who’s sent in a pic. There are some great ones, keep them coming.

Cycle Torque and WileyX Eyewear have teamed up to offer Cycle Torque readers the chance to win a pair of fabulous WileyX glasses up to the value of $269.95.

Just email us a motorcycle oriented photograph (maximum 5MB in size) to chris@cycletorque.com.au. Include a short description of the photograph of about 50 words and send it in. Don’t forget to include your details so we can contact you if you are the lucky monthly winner!

Your photograph can cover anything of a motorcycling nature.

It could be a photograph taken during a ride with mates, or of an exotic bike you spotted somewhere, or perhaps taken on a road trip. We’re keen to see dirt bikes, road bikes, race bikes and (importantly) the people who ride them. Funny, interesting or action-packed images are the likely winners.

WileyX has a huge range of glasses in its lineup, about 50 models in fact, and you could be wearing one of them if your photograph is selected to be published in the Cycle Torque WileyX Bike Pix Competition.

The competition is ongoing so keep your camera handy. If you want to see more of the WileyX range of shatterproof prescriptionable eyewear just check out www.wileyx.com.au or ring 1300 782 990. n

Previous winning images: www.cycletorque.com.au

JULY 2009 - 43

The replacement

TEST BY

44 - JULY 2009

Chris Pickett

PHOTOS BY

Nigel Paterson

RIDING GEAR: AGV helmet, Ixon jacket and gloves, Draggin jeans ‘Camos’, Alpinestars boots.

Cycle Torque test – MV Agusta Brutale 989 R

better fuelling More capacity more grunt more fun

trouble the handling. All the previous Brutales have been like this but what makes this one so much better?

In my humble opinion the fuelling does. Gone is the light switch fuel delivery which had you lurching like a learner in traffic, either surging forward almost uncontrollably or inducing violent engine braking.

Sure out on the open road this was vastly less noticeable but it was always there, somewhat spoiling the ride of an otherwise awesome machine. And then there was the suspension – settings ranging from extremely hard to ridiculously hard. The first time I rode a Brutale it was on crap roads. I actually stopped three times to adjust the suspension in a 65 kilometre journey, it was that unforgiving. I never could tell the difference each time I made the adjustments. Even on the softest setting it was kidney bruising.

It might sound like I’m giving the earlier models a torrid time. I enjoyed riding them but I enjoyed riding the 989 R much more.

Now

THE Brutale has always been hard edged and hard to get the best out of during its entire model run, from the original 750cc model right up to the 910. MV’s new 989 R is no less a rider’s bike, it demands you are up to the task but there isn’t the untamed rawness like before, there is some refinement in the 989 R.

Before It’s hard not to like the Brutale 989 R, it looks unbelievably aggressive, goes like stink and most riders could never truly

The inline four-cylinder engine now displaces 982cc (it was 909cc before). It’s not really that different in specification to the 910: 16 valves, a compression ratio of 12.2:1, Weber Marelli fuel injection and engine management system, cassette-style six-speed gearbox, wet clutch. The result is 104Kw (142 hp) at 11,000rpm, just 650rpm shy of the redline. Maximum torque of 104.5Nm is reached at 7,800rpm, so on paper you get the impression there’s no need to rev the bejesus out of the engine. In the real world it loves to rev all the way to redline, without a clearly noticeable drop off in power near the top.

The chassis mixes the chrome-moly trellis frame with the beautiful alloy single-sided swingarm, massive Marzocchi 50mm fully adjustable upside down forks grace the front – check out the size of the triple clamps – and a fully adjustable rear shock (including high and low speed damping) does duty at the business end.

Six-piston Nissin calipers may have been used for aeons on the previous models but now MV Agusta has gone all-Italian. Radial-mount four-piston Brembos grab 310mm discs on the front while a four-piston single caliper does likewise with a 210mm disc at the rear. A four-piston caliper on the rear may seem like overkill but it doesn’t seem to work very well anyway, a fault many Italian bikes are afflicted with these days.

It’s almost like they’ve fed the rear caliper a diet of Ritalin to keep it under control.

The wheels are regular in size, 3.5 inch front and six

JULY 2009 - 45

Cycle Torque test – MV Agusta Brutale 989 R Continued

The replacement

inch rear. What’s not regular is the look, the star design is very modern and befitting of a bike of this quality.

Styling of the Brutale has been evolution rather than revolution over the years, but it still looks horn. What do I like about it? For me it’s the engine out in the breeze, the single sided swingarm/wheel combination and the twin exhausts up one side. Everything else ties those styling cues together. If you think it’s ugly, get a Labrador and a cane to guide you around.

The bike doesn’t come at a bargain basement price so you expect a high level of quality in the bike.

Everywhere you look it’s obvious much thought went into the original design and it’s the way in which the minimalist approach works with the obviously expensive look that sets the 989 R apart from many of its rivals.

Sort of like a muscle bound boxer in an Armani suit.

On the street The riding position is compact front to rear, it feels very short from handlebars to seat for a six-footer.

Riding a Brutale is always a slightly

strange sensation, almost like you are too far forward over the ’bars. But you soon get used to it, and this riding position comes into its own when you start attacking the corners.

And attacking the corners is where the 989 R is at home. There’s so much grunt on offer you can either hold a gear and let the torque do the work or you can work the gearbox hard and go at it like a loony. Either way you will be rewarded with a fantastic ride. I much preferred to use the torque approach, you could keep the bike composed easier with less cog swapping. Even if you over-braked for a corner and found yourself in too high a gear exiting the corner, the 989 R would just motor out without fuss.

But the best approach was to hold one gear, keep off the brakes as much as possible and let the massive engine braking slow you down.

We’ve worked out the fuelling is much better than before, and so is the suspension.

It feels more compliant and is now actually fun to ride on a bumpy road rather than skipping from bump to bump like before.

It’s no adventure tourer but you get the drift.

Verdict MV’s engineers have done a great job taming the engine while still keeping the character. It’s still not perfect in the fuelling department, but then again there are always trade-offs in achieving the high power outputs in modern bikes.

When it comes to aggression they don’t come much more punch happy than the Brutale 989 R. But the punch is now softened slightly, rather than go in fists blazing there’s some Ali inspired dancing like a butterfly. It still packs a massive sting.n S p ec i f i cat i o n s: 2009 MV Agusta Brutale 989 R Engine Type: Liquid-cooled 4-cylinder four stroke Valves: Four/DOHC, radial fitment Bore and Stroke: 79mm x 50.1mm Compression Ratio: 12.2:1 Engine Management: “Weber Marelli” 5SM ignition - injection integrated system; induction discharge electronic ignition; sequential timed “Multipoint” electronic injection Transmission: six speed Fuel Capacity: 19 Litre Capacity: 982.3cc Final Drive: Chain Frame: CrMo Steel tubular trellis (TIG welded).

Alloy swingarm pivots Seat Height: 805mm Wheelbase: 1410mm Dry Weight: 185kg Front Suspension: 50mm USD fullyadjustable forks/130mm travel Rear Suspension: Single shock, rising rate linkage, fully adjustable, 120mm travel Front Brake: Dual 310mm discs, radial 4-piston calipers Rear Brake: 210mm disc, 4-piston caliper Front Tyre: 120/70-17 Rear Tyre: 190/55-17 Price (RRP): $25,900+ORC Call for a quote today free CALL

1 800 24 34 64

Your Motorcycle Insurance Specialists

Web: www.mvagusta.com.au

46 - JULY 2009

All Italian front end.

Trellis frame ties up the very revhappy four cylinder engine.

Twin exhausts emit a very fruity note.

Bottom triple clamp is substantial to say the least.

Even the headlight is trick.

Footrests are multi adjustable.

JULY 2009 - 47

48 - JULY 2009

RIDING GEAR: One nylons, Alpinestars boots.

Cycle Torque test – Sherco 5.1i

TEST BY

Matt Brown

PHOTOS BY

Nigel Paterson

Frogstomper SHERCO’S 5.1i combines ground pounding grunt with race quality suspension.

Many of us may associate the name Sherco with trials bikes, but the European company has been manufacturing the French built 450i and 510i models since 2004, with the introduction of the 250i this year. It was these early models that tested the waters with fuel injection, so it could be argued Sherco has a few extra years of R&D on the Japanese brands and were indeed pioneers of off road fuel injection.

Let’s be honest. How many of us have never ridden a Sherco?

I’ll put my hand up here. Until now I have never had

Big horsepower is no good without traction.

Sherco’s 5.1i has no problems getting the power to the ground.

JULY 2009 - 49

Cycle Torque test – Sherco 5.1i (cont.) the opportunity to throw a leg over one – which makes me the perfect candidate to test this bike because I have absolutely no preconceived opinions of how it should perform, and perform it did!

Seated impression Being a big bore bike, I was expecting a bulky feel when I threw a leg over – I was way off the mark here. The ’bar, ’peg, seat, tank, fuel cap configuration just felt right. You can sit as far forward on this bike as you please, the fuel cap was low profile giving my groin area a sigh of relief should we have to hit the anchors. Instrument readouts were functional and I was curious about the toggle switch on the left hand side, but more about that later. Electric start is pretty much standard on most big bore bikes these days, and yes it does have a kickstarter as well.

Handguards, frame guards and bashplate also come standard, saving you money for fuel. The headlight works fine, but its design has yet to grow on me.

Fire it up A button and EFI give a no fuss starting experience, and with a couple of quick twists of the throttle after warming you could hear the power within. The pipe meets all noise and emission laws without dulling down its bark.

Engine power off the bottom was what you would expect from a big bore: there is no substitute for cubes.

This bike has the ability to get power to the ground. You could say the power is predictable with smooth transitions through the rev range. Now about that switch on the left.

The Sherco has two ignition curves to choose from, ‘standard’ and ‘race’ settings. Although the standard curve probably has more power than most riders could handle, snappy throttle response always gives us a buzz so this is the setting we did most of our testing. The ‘race’ setting gave

50 - JULY 2009

a slightly stronger bottom end with noticeable mid range power gains

Handling Once again the suspension was new to me. This model uses 46mm Ceriani forks and a Sachs shock.

Initial reaction was harsh, but we did have adjustment, so we found a better setting with two clicks out on the fork compression adjustment and one on the shock. Remember when making clicker adjustments, wind them all the way in counting clicks and then wind them all the way out, counting the original number and adding or subtracting the extras.

After adjustments we could get the bike to soak up hard heavy hits better. One thing that’s fun about big bore machines, rolling off the throttle gets you out of trouble coming out of corners.

The suspension held you up on high speed cornering and didn’t bottom out on hard landings. For a suspension setup which was initially unfamiliar to me I was impressed with how quickly I felt comfortable with it.

Sherco chose Michelin tyres for this model which worked well for this test carried out in a combination of soft sand and grass track.

Sp ecifications: 2009 Sherco 5.1i Engine: Liquid cooled 4-stroke, single cylinder/SOHC/4-valve/510.4cc/EFI/6speed/Chain final drive Frame Type: CrMo and aluminium double cradle Seat Height: 985mm Fuel capacity: 7.5 litre (plastic tank) Dry Weight: 109kg Front Suspension: Ceriani telescopic fork, 46mm tubes, adjustable, 295mm of travel Rear Suspension: Sachs progressive, multiadjustable rear shock utilising a linkage and rod system, 320 mm of travel Price (RRP): $13,990+ORC Web: www.sherco.com

Sherco’s big bore is definitely compact.

Final Ride The sticker prices between big bore Japanese and European enduro machines is more compressed than ever before and at $13,990 the Sherco is at the top end of this market.

Sherco has built this bike with competition in mind. With the totally useable race engine ignition setting and suspension set-up for faster than average riders, it would be ready to race out of the crate. Predictability, confidence, distinctiveness and big bore fun is what you’ll get with the 5.1i, so if you’re in the market for a big bore enduro thumper have a good look at the Sherco. I’m now a fan. n

Paioli forks.

JULY 2009 - 51

Motorcycle Club: Pillion Name:

Stuffed Cat:

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

S M L XL XXL S M L XL XXL Enclosed Total Donation only. (Tick this box only if you don’t want a badge and sticker).

Tick to keep me updated— necessary to provide email address for this service.

Post entries to: Thunder Rally Organisers 77 Fraser Street CONSTITUTION HILL NSW 2145

T-shirt only or additional T-shirts

$40 $40 $40 $40 $40 $25 $25 $25 $25 $25 Not attending.

Yes / No Sidecar:

Total Quantity Each When do you anticipate arriving?

Yes / No

Email Address:

Awards given include:

Postcode: Suburb:

$ $20 Saturday

Longest distance—Male, Female, Pillion, Single, Outfit, Club Plate, Stuffed Cat, American, British, Ducati, European (other than Ducati), Asia/India/ Subcontinent bikes.

Oldest combined bike and rider. Largest Club attendance and Hard luck. Great Raffle Prizes

52 - JULY 2009

Mobile: Phone No.: Hm:

Year: Model: Make of Motorcycle:

Entry only—includes badge and sticker.

Entry with T-shirt, badge and sticker.

Friday

Street Name: House No:

�

All awards will be determined by the most direct route from postcode and any other relevant information off your pre-payed entry, to minimise confusion prior to awards being given, with the exception of the hard luck award. Those entering on the day that wish to contend in a specific category will need to notify the organisers at the registration tent and provide relevant verification (eg.: fuel receipts or log book etc.) to over rule a pre determined category. One award per entry only. All decisions made regarding the awards by the organisers will be final.

Directions

Ride towards Nundle, south east To of Tamworth (37 kms off the New Sh e b England Highway). a Da m s� From Nundle, follow the signs to the site at Sheba Dams � P u b Recreation Area (approx. 9 kms from town). The road rises 300m Nundle in 6 kms. It’s picturesque and has lots of corners, so take care! If you hit dirt, you’ve gone too far! Alternative routes include the Oxley Highway or Via Gloucester/Nowendoc.

The standard of behaviour is left to the individual but don’t spoil it for others. Transportation of sleeping bags, etc., is available via the DOCNSW club trailer, leaving Sydney, Tuesday, 6th October. Please contact Panorkle to arrange drop off times.

No cars or dogs please.

For more information, contact— Aunty Mal: 0404 002 427 Panorkle: 0425 283 234 (panorkle@bigpond.com) or Taffy: 0408 466 140 (bevelhed@exemail.com.au) or or visit our website www.docnsw.org.au

28th ANNUAL THUNDER RALLY ENTRY FORM First Name: Surname:

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Petrol

The Ducati Owners Club of New South Wales Inc. encourages safe riding, but accidents do happen. By attending this event you accept that the club and the members including, but not limited to, all rallygoers, and others, bear no liability whatsoever from any incident.

�To Tamworth

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Entries must be received by 27th September, 2009 to pick up T-shirt and badge at the rally.

All entries received after 27th September, 2009 may not be processed until after the rally.

Payment methods are by Cheque, Postal Money Order, or Cash in Person. Payment can also be made by Direct Bank Deposit. Direct Bank deposit details are: The Thunder Rally Organisers, Westpac Bank, BSB 032179, Acc. No. 239893.

All direct bank deposit entrants to self-print out a transaction receipt, and identify their transaction by including their FULL NAME as part of the direct bank deposit transactions thank you.

28th Thunder Rally 2009 9th–11th October

Come and join us for the Twenty Eighth year of our Rally to benefit the

Moorong Spinal Unit Proudly hosted by the

A prepaid entry fee of $20 or a late entry fee of $25 will include a badge and a hot or cold drink upon arrival.

The rally site is the picturesque Sheba Dams Recreation Area, Nundle, approximately 430 kms north west of Sydney.

Awards given include: Longest distance— Male, Female, Pillion, Single, Outfit, Club Plate, Stuffed Cat, American, British, Ducati, European (other than Ducati), Asia/India/Sub-continent bikes. Oldest combinded bike and rider. Largest Club attendance and Hard luck. Bumper Rally Raffle.

The Ducati Owners Club of NSW 28th

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Thunder Rally

is proudly supported by

B RAY R O P E R T I E S

DUCATI SYDNEY NFImporters

(02) 9672 3002

Westmead (02) 9635 0655, Revesby (02) 8707 8300, Blacktown (02) 9208 2744, Gosford (02) 4325 0636

Bundy’s bikes & mechanical (02) 9675 5888

www.rjays.com.au

(02) 4731 2239

For more information, contact— Aunty Mal: 0404 002 427; Panorkle: 0425 283 234 (panorkle@bigpond.com) or Taffy: 0408 466 140 (bevelhed@exemail.com.au) go to www.docnsw.org.au

*

All Motorcyclists welcome JULY 2009 - 53

Publisher’s Piece

FULLY WIRED AN INTERVIEW Chris Pickett and I did with Champo, a member of the Old Bulls Trailriders’ group highlights a growing trend in motorcycling: riders meeting each other and organising rides via the internet, and especially motorcycle forums.

It’s another example of cyberspace improving communication, and in this case it has a direct impact on the riders involved - but the vast majority of motorcyclists wouldn’t have even heard of the group. You can find out more by listening to CT #11 podcast, available through www.cycletorque.com.au or via iTunes.

And now you can become a fan on FaceBook (search for Cycle Torque and Twitter (www.twitter.com/ CycleTorque), so if you’re into social media don’t be afraid to look us up.

Did you miss the last issue of Cycle Torque? If you did - and even if you didn’t - go to www.cycletorque.com. au and click on the Emags link, where the June issue - and probably July by

the time you read this - will be available in digital form. We plan to produce a digital version of all the future issues of Cycle Torque, because the future of the printed page isn’t exactly certain.

The cost of printing went up recently, while the cost of publishing a copy of Cycle Torque online is falling, and it was pretty cheap even from the get-go.

While we plan to produce the printed version for as long as you, the readers, choose to grab copies from your favourite bike shops and our advertisers keep supporting the paper version, I think it’s a somewhat sad reality that eventually Cycle Torque will only be on paper if you decide to print pages at home.

I can’t remember how many times I’ve heard people complain, “but I can’t read it on a screen if I’m in the dunny!”

However, new devices may change all that. Apple has just announced the iPhone 3GS, and during the launch announcement they invited a digital publisher up on stage who told the

audience it had done a deal with many major book and magazine publishers to make their publications available on the iPhone… so who knows, you might be happy to read a digital version of Cycle Torque while performing essential bodily functions at the same time, soon.

One thing you’ll never see in an issue of Cycle Torque is video – the newspapers Harry Potter reads might be able to do that trick, but we can’t.

However, there’s more Cycle Torque video previews up on www.cycletorque. com.au and even more to come – the KTM RC8R, Triumph Daytona 675 and MV Agusta Brutale 989R have been shot and will be posted to the site soon.

Also up on cycletorque.com.au is a link to an email notification service fill in the form and you’ll get an email letting you know when we’ve posted a new issue, audio or video podcast to the site.

– Nigel Paterson

www.cycletorque.com.au -audio & video podcasts -electronic editions Follow Cycle Torque on Twitter: www. twitter.com/cycletorque Become a fan on FaceBook, just search for Cycle Torque 54 - JULY 2009

GUNTRIP

Naked justice NOW, I don’t know about you but I’m resigned to being shafted by all manner of government agencies and others. Regular readers of these jottings will appreciate that I’m not a major fan of the NSW road system, for example, with particular reference to the way it’s managed and maintained.

That’s business as usual.

What I don’t expect or appreciate is being fixed up by the motorcycle press. I mean, look at it in all its grisly glory. We’ve got newspapers, magazines and websites; we have motorcycle newspapers, racing magazines, sports bike magazines, chopper magazines, cruiser magazines, touring magazines, motocross magazines, dirt bike magazines; we even have magazines full of classified ads and accessories, should you wish to flog your bike or your sister’s spare gloves.

What’s missing from that list? Correct: a magazine for proper, sensible motorbikes with a beginning, a middle and an end. A magazine for the sort of motorbikes ridden by people with somewhere to go; a magazine for the sort of motorbikes ridden by people who have sufficient self-possession not to have to festoon their bikes with flummery, gewgaws or fancy paintwork in a frantic attempt to persuade an uncaring world that they have personalities.

See also character.

Yes, gentle reader, what’s missing from that list is a magazine for ‘naked’ bikes, as they’ve come unhappily to be known. Yes, I know

there are strange English publications devised for the defiant and resentful sons of disenfranchised Yorkshire coal miners and steel workers who do strange things to their bikes, presumably with the aim of preparing for some post-apocalyptic nightmare world in which all motorcycles will be required to be equipped with vertically mounted seats and exhaust cans, and handlebars like water-divining rods. No, it doesn’t make sense to me either.

We need a magazine for us, for you and me, a magazine that will embody the very spirit of motorcycling itself, a magazine grounded in realism that will tread a fine but purposeful line, ignoring the idiocy that surrounds us, whether represented by superchic inner-city $1000-service manicured haute couture or tattooed-knuckle skull-andcrossbones outlawdom.

Forget it all, for we are the very sinews of motorcycling.

A ‘naked’ bike? No, this is a motorcycle. Yours is a faired bike, a cruiser or something else; this, my friend, is a motorcycle: that’s M-O-T-O-RC-Y-C-L-E, and it’s naked only in the sense that it lacks any kind of qualifying adjective.

Sorry, anti-Italian, did you say? Anti-American? Twaddle: show me an SD Darmah; give me an XR1200 or a Buell; and is that an S4 Monster over there? Bring it on.

So, to business. We’ll call our magazine RAW, for clear visual and onomatopoeic reasons. In our first issue we’ll have a lot of ground

to cover, so pay attention.

In our lead test we’ll throw together the Benelli 1130 TnT, Ducati Streetfighter S (their description, not mine), KTM Superduke, Triumph Speed Triple, Yamaha FZ1 and Kawasaki Z1000.

The Kawasaki will make a couple of appearances in the first issue because it will also be going to the Phillip Island GP in company with a Z1.

We’ll look at the Team Avon Castrol Six-Hour Z900s from the middle ’70s, and talk to Mick Hone and Graeme Crosby about the early days of Superbike racing here.

Jay Springsteen and Scott Parker will join the celebrations too, and talk to us about the mighty Harley XR750 and explain to our disbelieving ears how you pull 120bhp out of an aircooled pushrod V-twin.

There’ll be an owner survey covering the Suzuki Bandit family from 1996 to date, and there’ll be a special on exhausts using the magazine’s long-term-loan Honda CB1000R as a testbed.

Sound good? We’re not out of first gear yet.

We’ll run the definitive warts-and-all yarn on the Triumph Bonneville, starting in 1959 and running through to the newly released SE. And we’ll be doing stuff.

None of this namby-pamby change-the-handlebargrips-and-call-it-a-productevaluation crap. We’ll get our tame techies in harness give ’em one of our own bikes or a reader’s and fix it: we’ll be flicking those threetonne wheels, replacing the

telescopic chopsticks up front with real forks, supporting the swingarm properly, subjecting the frame to some torsional testing and come up with a number of possible routes forward. No mention of engines, yet, you’ll notice.

Most donks make plenty of power; what we need is the means of making use of it.

Hell, we might even design our own bike.

The world of real motorcycles will be our back yard, dear reader. We have historical claim of primacy on practically anything before the middle 1980s and most of the good things thereafter. But let’s not be greedy. We’ll run something classic every issue, and be good and appreciative about it too; but for practical purposes we’ll note the Z1 as our chronological and cultural origin. We’ll be about strength, individuality, fun; we’ll be there for the fun of the ride, jacket, jeans, wallet and toothbrush, maybe a small grip ocky-strapped to the pillion seat.

So what do you think? Are you up for it?

At least we can dream together.

– Bob Guntrip Sounds good Bob. Put me on the mailing list and don’t steal too many of my advertisers…

I’d offer too give you a hand putting it together, but someone needs to deal with the current crop of sportsbikes, cruisers, tourers, motocross and enduro machines as well.

- NP

JULY 2009 - 55