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BIKERS & DRIVERS MAGAZINE
22
N°
MAy 2011
BIKERS’ CLASSICS 2011 th
9 édition
TEAM DGSPORT
Responsible editor : Olivier Aerts - Avenue du Stade, 27 - Z.I. Filaville B-4910 Theux - Can not be sold
The butterfly effect
6 HOURS MOTO OF SPA A prelude for the world championship
DARK DOG MOTO TOUR Open to everyone
PARYS PRINTING
A “full throttle” printer
DRIVERSDAYS
We’re off
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EDITORIAL CONTENTS / TOGETHER…
TOGETHER…
Christian Jupsin At the beginning of a new season we’re as usual very optimistic and although we don’t know what the future will bring us, what we’ve had so far was more than we could wish for. After our traditional Spanish week, the sun came to join us at our first Belgian events. And how nice it is to ride under the rays of Ra…
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Editorial Contents
4
News
6
News
partner in crime.
7 > 10
Bikers’ Classics
Last year, DG Sport worked joined forces with MET to re-
11
Tickets4sale
12-13
The 8 hours cycling of Spa
14-15
6 hours Moto of Spa
16-17
A “full throttle” printer
18-19-20
The butterfly effect
22-23
Mario’s tips and tricks
24 > 27
Dark Dog Moto Tour
28-29
Tripy II
30-31
DriversDays
32
Bruno Raas
33-34
BMW above all
I cross my fingers and hope he’ll continue to grace us with his sweet warmth, we’ll need it given our full 2011 programme. A programme featuring lots of collaborations, more than usual, ‘cause it’s not enough to have ideas, you have to realise them too and therefore it’s sometimes good to have a
launch the endurance in Belgium. If we look at the number of registered teams for the BMEC in 2011, we can safely say that this collaboration is already a success ! In the same spirit of promoting road races, we replied positive to the request of the Club of Mettet. The Speed Trophy, a marriage between the past and the present, is unique in its sort and we’re very proud to have been chosen to organise the 68th edition of the Grand Trophy, « child » of Jules Tacheny and his heirs. And last but not least, we have been asked by the organisers of the Dark Dog Moto Tour to assist them with our knowhow. Requests and acknowledgement that touches us deeply, but that doesn’t prevent us from keeping both feet on the ground. Because these challenges may well be exciting, the main goal is to make them succeed. With your support, we’ll get there !
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Tel. +32(0)87 53 90 04 \ Fax +32(0)87 53 90 01 \ www.dgsport.eu \ Edition : 25.000 copies distributed in 5 languages \ Design : CEI.lu
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NEWS / CHOOSE WELL
FIAT, PROFESSIONAL UTILITY VEHICLES Would you like to make your life a little easier ? That’s simple, just like the organisers of the Bikers’ Days and the Bikers’ Classics, chose a utility vehicle from the Fiat range. There are enough models answering all your requirements. Your equipment and competition bikes perfectly fit in a Scudo or even better in a Ducato, with which you can transport them quickly and in all safety.
WHY NOT GIVE A VOUCHER?
Information : www.fiatprofessional.com or at an official dealership.
You have a birthday to celebrate or another reason to party or you just feel like giving something to a dear friend, but you have no clue what to offer… Why not give a voucher for one of our Bikers’ Days or, even better, for one of our Bikers’ School sessions ? An original gift that will be appreciated by everyone, that’s for sure. You’ll find all information on our website www.bikersdays.com in the information section.
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HEROCK® TRIPLE RANGE Since their start in 2009, Herock® moved up to the top of the market for work clothing. Clothing destined for professionals and amateur DIY’s. The brand proposes three lines of clothing,
starting with Essentials, which meets all the basic needs and is destined for everyone who’s not afraid of pulling up those sleeves. The second line, Additionals , includes specific articles with unique characteristics meant for specific jobs. Amateurs as well as professionals will find what they need in the wide range of pants, jackets, gloves etc. that’ll meet all of their requirements. The third line, Expert, is the cream of the Herock® collection. Here professionals find exclusive articles with a high longevity that meet the different specific requirements of their job. And in order for all professionals or amateurs to find what they need, Herock® has also developed a women’s line. Nowadays more and more women exercise professions that previously were only done by men. And they also need to feel at ease and be able to work in a comfortable yet safe way. Sherock‘s work clothing is adjusted to the female silhouette but maintains the characteristics that made the fame of the men’s line. With such a reputation of quality and efficiency, it’s only natural that Herock® sponsors Team DG Sport Compétition, because their objectives for the WC Endurance are identical !
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Information and the full range can be discovered on the website www.herockworkwear.com
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NEWS / CHOOSE WELL
Moto-Master introduces a new disk. With its typical flame form it gets maximum ventilation and temperature raises are minimised.
MOTOMASTER, FOR PERFECT BRAKING MICHELIN PILOT ROAD 3
3
The Pilot Road 2 already was THE reference for everyone who likes roadsters and touring. But Michelin took it another step further and introduces today an improved version, the Pilot Road 3.
The difference ? The PR3 uses grooves called sipes to help disperse the water when riding through rain or puddles. When braking, depending on the situation and quality of the surface, the PR3 allows to gain 2,5 to 5 metres in comparison with its predecessor. It still uses the two compound technology of the PR2 with regard to the longevity. Soft rubber compounds on the tread shoulders and a wear-resistant compound down the middle. A more progressive wear is one of the main conditions
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With their width of 5,5mm these discs, that are also used on the Yamaha R1 of the DG Sport Compétion team in the WC Endurance, offer equal brake pressure at all times as well as perfect dosing and they wear less fast. www.moto-master.com
for the longevity of a tyre without loss of performance. Even though the PR3 has been released, the PR2 still remains in production. Information and technical specifications : www.michelin.co.uk
VULCANET, THE MAGICAL TISSUE ! You like your machine bright and shiny but you’d rather spend your time riding than polishing ? Then we have the perfect solution for you : Vulcanet tissues. From now on, no more need to haul up the entire Mr. Proper arsenal, with Vulcanet two to four tissues are enough to remove most of the dirt. The most persistent bugs won’t resist, even in the smallest corner. After this you go over it with the (washable) microfiber tissue delivered with the kit of 80 Vulcanet tissues, and your machine will shine as if it came right from the showroom ! Seeing is believing, and to prove this you’ll find a contest in this issue with which you can win several Vulcanet kits. Information on www.vulcanet-shop.com
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BIKERS’ CLASSICS / 9TH EDITION
1ST, 2ND AND 3RD OF JULY THE CLASSIC BIKE EVENT THAT EVEN THE ENGLISH ENVY US FOR !
BIKERS’CLASSICS
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SPA The first weekend of July, Francorchamps will once again relive its past. For the ninth time in a row, many champions and amateurs and a huge amount of magnificent classic motorcycles will set up their tents in the paddocks of Spa. Along the years, the Bikers’ Classics have become the place to be, one of the most prestigious events of its kind in Europe, if not the most prestigious one.
They even envy us for it. Especially in Great Britain, where the history of motorsports has been honoured for as long as we can remember.
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BIKERS’ CLASSICS / 9TH EDITION
THIS YEAR, THE PROGRAMME WILL BE EVEN MORE GRANDIOSE.
First of all when it comes to the amateurs. As usual they’ll be many to attack the Raidillon. We’re expecting not less than
SIX HUNDRED PARTICIPANTS who will show up with their gorgeous machines. Very exceptional bikes of which sometimes only one model exists, pampered the entire year for the pleasure of the owners but also for the pleasure of the spectators. On each square metre of the paddocks, visitors will be able to discover beautiful classics, continuing the discovery into the pit lane where the motorcycles of the great champions such as Giacomo Agostini and Freddie Spencer will be exhibited, these motorcycles will take part in the many parades. Just like the previous years, we can count on the participation of many great champions who put their stamp on motorcycle history.
The
YAMAHA museum A stamp that often had the Yamaha logo on it ! In 2011, the company from Shizuoka celebrates its 50th anniversary of presence in the world of road racing. So it’s only natural that the 9th edition of the Bikers’ Classics will honour this factory that keeps on exiting all motorsport lovers, Grand Prix after Grand Prix. A real museum, which you can visit for free, will be set up in the building of the Eau Rouge.
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BIKERS’ CLASSICS / 9TH EDITION
The 4 Hours of Spa Classic
WE’RE FULL !
The champions parades are amongst the most important moments of the Bikers’ Classics, along with the 4 Hour endurance race. To see the riders run to their machines and witness the zigzagging peloton attack the Raidillon is one of the most intense moments for the visitors. This endurance for classic bikes is so successful that each year we have to refuse many people!
90 Anni Moto Guzzi expo
On top of the many activities for young and old, you’ll also find the Moto Guzzi exhibition in the surroundings of the track. At the occasion of the 90 Anni Moto Guzzi, Guzzi riders from all over Europe will come together at the Bikers’ Classics.
Let’s not forget the sidecars. The sidecar riders and their co-pilots were responsible for lots of fun last year. So we absolutely wanted to repeat this, even intensify their share in the event. You’ll see them at work during the parades that for some (almost) turn out into a race. It’s the perfect occasion to see some nice overtaking manoeuvres and to admire the often artisanal hence unique machines.
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TICKETS4SALE / TAKE ADVANTAGE OF IT !
Bikers’ Classics 1st, 2nd and 3rd of July
AN EASY SERVICE THAT ALLOWS YOU TO PAY IN ALL SAFETY AND ENJOY DISCOUNTS AT THE SAME TIME.
The crème de la crème of former world champions and their mythical motorcycles. A three-day dive in the past. You just have to be there. Weekend general admission pass :
15 €
10 €
tickets4sale
Weekend Extra Paddock : 20 € Sunday Extra Paddock :
10 €
Weekend pass : general entry + paddock :
35 € 30 € tickets4sale
Sunday pass : general entry + paddock : 25 € 20 € tickets4sale Free access for children under 16 years
T I C K ET S 4 S A L E
.eu
6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps 12th, 13th and 14th of August Endurance in every sense of the word. A ‘Le Mans style’ start, pit stops, unforeseen returns to the boxes, ever changing rankings. General admission pass : 15 € Extra Paddock :
10 €
tickets4sale
15 €
Weekend pass : general admission + paddock : 35 € 20 € tickets4sale Free access for children under 16 years
Progress never stops. Since the beginning of the year you can buy your tickets for our events via our website www.tickets4sale.eu
For you it’s not only easy but it also
200 Miglia di Imola 30th of September, 1st and 2nd of October Bikers’ Classics the Italian way. The tifosi were right and the second edition will be even better than the first one. A nice way to end the season.
gives you the opportunity to get some important discounts, as you can see hereunder.
Weekend general admission pass :
15 €
Paddock week-end :
20 €
Paddock sunday :
10 €
Week-end paddock included :
35 € 30 € tickets4sale
Sunday paddock included :
25 € 20 € tickets4sale
Nevertheless you pay in al safety ‘cause the confidentiality of your payments is guaranteed by the most renowned company on the market.
Take advantage of it !
10 €
tickets4sale
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Eight hours long taking the “Raidillon” on the small plateau,
4 SEPTEMBER 2011 THE 8 HOURS CYCLING
descending to the “Raccorde-
OF SPA-FRANCORCHAMPS
DG Sport proposes on the 4th of
Two wheels and a track… does that ring a bell ? You’re thinking Bikers’ Days, Bikers’ Classics or BMEC aren’t you ? But you’re wrong ! This time, even though we’re talking about Francorchamps, it’s not about motorcycles, it’s
ment”, and then choosing the right gear to attack the “Source”, that’s
in
a
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what
September 2011. A nice challenge that for some undoubtedly will turn into a competition but for others and they’ll be more numerous it will be a team building activity or just a fun family activity. For many years now the track of Zolder welcomes the 24 Hours of Cycling.
about bikes !
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nutshell
8h
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8 HOURS CYCLING OF SPA / TWO WHEELS AND A TRACK… In 2010 250 teams participated, i.e. more than 2.000 cyclists aged between 17 and 72 years old, supported by the enthusiasm of nearly 15.000 spectators. An event that in view of the Endurance Cycling Series, will also take place at Francorchamps this year ! But given the fact that this track is situated in the Ardennes hence has a specific configuration (and cyclists know what we’re talking about !) and taken into consideration that some parts are not illuminated, it’ll be limited to an eight hour event. It’s not the first time though that Francorchamps welcomes cyclists. The Tour de France even arrived here once. But now the challenge is yours.
You still have five months to work on your condition and to train your team members… All information and subscription forms are available on : www.endurancecyclingseries.com The Teams There’ll be different classifications according to the number of members
per team. There’s the Solo category (for the bold ones), Duo (that need no further explanation), Quattro (3 to 4 team members) and Ocho (5 to max. 8 team members). Furthermore there’ll be a classification for companies (Corporate) and teams composed out of women (Women Only). So there’s some for everyone aged from 15 to …. !
Green concept The goal is a minimum of CO2 exhaust and a maximum of security. Be courteous, no doping, no waste along the track (put it in your suit) and wear a helmet (mandatory !).
For the disabled The disabled cyclists will not be forgotten at this cycling feast. There’ll be an adapted programme for them.
For the spectators Family, friends or colleagues, we hope they will be numerous to support the cyclists. Many activities will be organised for everyone in order for all of you to enjoy a beautiful day.
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12, 13 AND 14 AUGUST 6 HOURS OF SPA FOR MOTORCYCLES
6 hours
A prelude for the World Championship ?
Will we have to wait until the end of September and the last race in Zolder to know the new endurance champions ? Nothing is less sure. Because prior to this final round, the BMEC will set up its tents in Francorchamps on the 12th, 13th
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and 14th of August for a six hour race which we think will be decisive.
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6 HOURS MOTO OF SPA / BMEC
CONTRARY TO THE OTHER RACES
Spectacle assured.
ON THE CALENDAR AND GIVEN ITS
Although the endurance race itself, with its ballet of pit stops stands for the main spectacle on Saturday, there’ll also be a big portion of spectacle on Sunday.
LENGTH, THE RESULTS OBTAINED DURING THIS RACE WILL COUNT FOR DOUBLE POINTS. A victory is good for 50 points, which can well change the entire ranking that might have formed up till then during the four previous races. So it’s of utmost importance for the teams to be there in Spa.
On the 14th of August, you’ll be able to see the protagonists of the Belgian and Dutch Supersport and Superbike championships in action as well as the 3D Cup and the sidecars. A sprint programme that’ll enchant every road race lover.
But that won’t be that simple. Why not you ask ? First of all because of the fact that contrary to last year’s 54 participating teams, we now already count 65 registered teams, which is 20% more than last year. So the battle will be even harsher. Also we remember the previous edition, where there were constant changes in the ranking and everything was still possible in the last 15 minutes of the race. A sudden rain-shower and the podium looked completely different ! And that’s the beauty of endurance, that constant uncertainty, nothing is ever sure, anything can happen at any time.
2012 Objective ! This edition of the Six Hours for Motorcycles is also important for a very special reason. The organisers hope that in 2012 the race will be considered for the Endurance World Championship ! For several years already they’ve been trying to get this international reconnaissance that’ll allow the track of Spa-Francorchamps to relive its history. We cross our fingers and we’ll keep you informed …
And there’s also the impressive BLEUK stunt show. If you want to witness the most breathtaking motorcycle acrobatics, you just have to be there ! There will also be other animations for young and old at the heart of the expo village.
Programme You’ll find the complete programme and all information on the website www.bmec.be but we can already tell you that Friday the 12th of August is reserved for the training sessions of the BMEC (from 14 till 21h00), that after the training sessions of Saturday (from 9 till 14h00) the Six Hours for Motorcycles will take place (start at 14h30), and that on Sunday you’ll be able to assist the warm up (as from 9h00), the BLEUK stunt show (12h50) and of course the Supersport, Superbike, 3 D Cup and sidecar races.
Discounts We advise you to buy tickets via our online presale service www.tickets4sale.eu, where you’ll enjoy some nice discounts. For children younger than 16 years, the entrance is free.
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A « FULL THROTTLE »
PRINTER… Ignace Parys
Behind every person there’s a story. We rarely think of it but sometimes the people we meet on a regular basis are not who we think they are. Most of them have a passion of some kind or a past that only comes up occasionally. Ignace Parys is one of those people.
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IGNACE PARYS / PORTRAIT For many, he’s just the boss of the printing company that bares his name and was founded by his father in 1956. A printing company employing twenty people these days, specialised in brochures and magazines. Often motorcycle magazines, and that has its reasons. During 16 years, Ignace was one of our talented road race riders. « I started in 1984, he confides us, in the promo Juniors category for which, given the large amount of participants, you had to qualify to be able to participate. »
SCOOTER,
KART,
MOTO
THE 23 YEAR OLD BOY TAKES ON EVERY CHALLENGE WITH EASE. BEFORE TURNING TO TWO WHEELS, HE HAD ALREADY MADE HIS MARK ON THE KARTING SCENE WHERE HE WON THE NATIONAL AND INTERS CATEGORY. « Ever since I was a little boy I wanted to ride motorcycles. I must have been about 10 years old when we did scooter races with open exhausts in front of police who watched us race by without stopping us, you cannot even imagine that these days. But my parents were always opposed to it. And even as they got used to it when time went by, they never came to see me ride !
I never told them about my results either. Although I know that my father was very proud when one day he coincidently stumbled upon a big header about me in the newspaper Le Soir. » And the boy proved to be talented, ‘cause in his second season he often made the podium with his Kawasaki 600. « I finished second at the first race of the ’85 season, between Naveau – for who I think it was his first victory – and Michel Simul. » He was bitten by the virus, seriously bitten. That showed when he hurt his shoulder badly after a crash in Ostend, but still managed to win the next race despite his handicap. « After that injury which luckily wasn’t too bad, my parents thought I would have gotten the message and would stop racing … » They were disappointed when Ignace continued, not only Supercup but also Superbike and Endurance. « Only 24 Hour races, often with Marc Deville and Patrick Orban ». A trio that showed their mark at the Bol d’Or, at Le Mans and at the 24 Hours of Liège. « About ten times we were able to take points, with a 10th place in the general ranking and 2nd in the ranking of our category at le Mans and a 6th place in Francorchamps. »
English is not my cup of tea… » says our Flemish interviewee. « Luckily I found Claudine ! » She first handled all administration but turned out to be an exceptional mechanic ! « She was definitely much calmer than I was and she knew how to adjust the valves and carburettors like no other, and she knew better than I did which tyres I had to use ». Both of them crossed Europe, conquering a 5th place at Villa Real, in Portugal… and making two kids, girls aged 18 and 12 today. « I stopped racing in 2000. With the company and my family, there wasn’t much time left for racing. And leaving on my own wasn’t that tempting either. » But that doesn’t keep him from enjoying motorcycles when he feels like it. We still often meet him at Bilstain or Francorchamps, having fun with his Supermotard. And as he’s very conscious of what the world of motorcycles has meant for him businesswise – lots of his current customers are old personal sponsors – he also supports this sport.
HE’S ONE OF THE MAIN CONTRIBUTORS OF THE TEAM DG SPORT COMPÉTITION.
Married to his mechanic ! But our printer had other goals : the TT One races, created because the Tourist Trophy of the Isle of Man didn’t count for the world championship anymore. « But that was all in English, and although I can manage in French,
« I want to help young riders but I like to leave the decisions and goals to an interesting structure, the most professional one I know. » We told you that behind every person there’s a story …
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THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT…
Last year we left Magny Cours with joy in our hearts after the 2010 edition of the Bol d’Or thanks to our victory in the Superstock category, this year however we left realising that competition can very quickly become an ungrateful thing.
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TEAM DG SPORT COMPÉTITION / THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT…
30 SEPTEMBRE 1-2 OCTOBRE
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TEAM DG SPORT COMPÉTITION / THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT… During this first round of the 2011 world championship, Team DG Sport Compétition wasn’t spared from problems. After four hours of race, Anthony dos Santos crashed in the Château d’eau turn. While recuperating from his fall, he managed to return the Yamaha R1 to the box where we immediately started repairing it. Despite the dexterity of the assistance team, we lost several places. Especially when we were forced to return a second time for safety reasons due to problems with the brakes. When the night set in, everyone thought we’d had the worst and little by little we started to climb up to the top 20. But that was without taking into account the overheating of the engine which up to 3 times forced the mechanics to purge the entire cooling circuit. In total we lost almost 9 laps… and we knew we were never going to gain those back ! Although you cannot blame us for not trying ! All night long, Olivier Depoorter and Anthony dos Santos rode lap times identical to those of the top 10 teams. The Spanish rider Alvaro Molina, who replaced Raymond Schouten who had to participate at the Dutch championship, had difficulties in keeping up the same pace as his fellow riders. And so Olivier had to do a double final relais in order to be able to achieve an 18th place in the general ranking and a 7th place in the Superstock category. That makes 13 points for the world championship, and despite our deception, this first race was very positive for several reasons. First of all there was the quick fusion between our mechanics and our assistance team. Secondly, as the training sessions and rounds went by, we could count on the presence of the Michelin engineer who continuously helped us in the box, which lead to a positive evolution of the compromise between chassis and tyres. And finally ‘cause of the fact that of the six Superstock teams that finished in front of us, only two participate at the entire world championship. And as in endurance anything is always possible, we keep on hoping.
SO WE’RE LOOKING FORWARD TO THE SPANISH ADVENTURE ON THE 21ST AND 22ND OF MAY, THE EIGHT HOURS OF ALBACETE, WHERE OLIVIER AND ANTHONY WILL GET THE HELP FROM SÉBASTIEN LE GRELLE, OFFICIAL RIDER OF YAMAHA BELGIUM.
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MARIO’S TIPS AND TRICKS
YOUR MOTORCYCLE IN PERFECT SHAPE …
Have you noticed that although a motorcycle may keep the same appearance over the years, the handling changes ? A few details here, some adjustments there, and the motorcycle behaves much better. Well, that also goes for your own bike. It’s enough to change a few settings to get an all-new riding experience.
We asked our house « wizzard » Mario Kupper, who takes, amongst others, care of the two Yamaha R1 of the Team DG Sport, to share some tips and tricks with us. They’ll allow you get more fun out of your runs at our Bikers’ Days or to improve your performances at the Belgian Moto Endurance Championship. Mario lets us in on his secrets… « Let’s start with the easiest : TYRE PRESSURE
Because tyres have to work harder on track than on the road hence get warmer, the tyre pressure has to be reduced. For Michelin tyres for instance, I recommend 2,1 bar in the front and 1,9 bar at the rear. If you use rain tyres, you take 2,3 and 2,1.
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Watch out with cold tyres. Without tyre warmers you have to count on 2 to 3 rounds before the rubber is at temperature. That also depends on your riding style and the type of track of course. If the tyres are well balanced, the riding becomes more comfortable and efficient. THE CHAIN tension should have more play than usual. On track it has to work harder and if it’s too tight, it’ll have a negative influence on the efficiency of the suspension. AS TO THE BRAKES, for the Bikers’ Days, steel brake lines that dilate less than the original ones are a plus but certainly not a must. The same goes for brake pads or brake fluid. For the BMEC on the other hand, steel brake lines, racing brake pads that are heat resistant (we advise SBS)
and high-temperature brake oil such as Motul RB 600 F, are indispensable. You can get them at the Motul Racing Service present at our track days. IN A RACE, water is the only cooling fluid allowed. During the Bikers’ Days, it’s recommended to replace the fluid containing defrost with water, in order not to leave a slippery trace of glycol on the track. It’s very easy to empty the reservoir and you can use the fluid you removed again afterwards for you daily trips WHAT’S MANDATORY FOR THE BMEC, and I also strongly advise for the Bikers’ Days is that all oil related bolts are lock wired. It’s also best to use high-quality oil, whether it’s 10W40 or 10W50, for instance the full synthetic Motul 300 V. Your engine will thank you for it.
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MARIO’S TIPS AND TRICKS / THE TIP ! CARTER PROTECTORS such as the GB Racing ones, are also a good investment. In case of small crashes, they’re the ones that take the impact. In general, the standard SUSPENSION settings are too soft. They have to be put as hard as possible. During a race, a good suspension setting is, as far as I’m concerned, more important than the engine. A perfect harmony between the fork and the shock absorber will allow you to use a maximum of performance and above all to spare your tyres.
OIL LOSS, EVEN A LITTLE BIT, IS ALWAYS A SOURCE OF GREAT DANGER, FOR YOURSELF AND FOR THE OTHERS.
For a RACE, one can tighten the chain tension in order to lose less performance. One then has to adjust the sprocket ratio and the tyres in function of the track (tyre warmers are must). Mousse will be put in the reservoir and POLYESTER BODYWORK, will be used, which is lighter and less expensive in case of a crash. The grips and steering elements will be adjusted in order to provide the most comfortable riding position.
For the Bikers’ Days, it’s also recommended to remove your mirrors. This avoids you from getting distracted by what’s going on behind you. Not to mention the fact that it improves aerodynamics and that the mirrors also often take away part of your view. That the lights and indicators have to be taped goes without saying, this avoids glass and plastic from getting on the track in case of a crash. »
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TO EVERYONE
DARK DOG MOTO TOUR / OPEN TO EVERYONE !
To unite motorcycles, scooters and sidecars of all displacements and all construction years. To join amateurs, professional riders and champions to ride along the roads of France, small and main roads, races against the clock on closed roads and on mythical tracks, and all of this in the most convivial atmosphere,
THAT’S THE DARK DOG MOTO TOUR IN A FEW WORDS.
WORLD’S BIGGEST ROAD RALLY ! OPEN TO EVERYONE !
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Marc FONTAN : Dark Dog Moto Tour Director
Be part of this fantastic adventure, open to everyone ! Do you like to discover France with its small country roads, to meet the inhabitants of the villages that welcome us and to be part of a true continental circus with the atmosphere of a real riders park, to open the throttle wide from time to time during the specials, then come and join us with your own bike. No matter how old you are or where you come from, at the Dark Dog Moto Tour you’ll find the most convivial atmosphere with people who are always prepared to lend a helping hand and to give you some good advise. Ride along and share this adventure with renowned riders such as Dominique Sarron, Gilles Husson, Philippe Monneret, Serge Nuques and Denis Bouan.
PACK
The biggest motor sports event in France France has been captured by the Dark Dog Moto Tour for a few years now. Under the wings of Marc FONTAN, former world champion Endurance, this major event becomes more popular by the year, which proves that many motorcycle riders enjoy riding at a steady pace ! The DARK DOG MOTO TOUR is a road rally that takes place each year at the beginning of October (from the 1st till the 9th in 2011) and that crosses the beautiful French roads to stop from time to time for a race against the clock on a closed track and some regularity stages. All of this with regular serial bikes. Each day a classification is made up including all different categories, going from the 125ccs to the large displacements over scooters, classic bikes, mono and bi-cylinders, the less than 650ccs and the sidecars.
« ALL INCLUSIVE » PACK Are you alone, without lodgement and assistance ? Than we take care of you 100% ! The Solo Formula that exists for 2 years already includes lodging in a comfortable structure, full pension meals, transportation of you personal belongings and every evening technical assistance. You come with your equipment, your motorcycle, your qualities as a rider and your good mood, an essential element if you want to be part of the DARK DOG MOTO TOUR where, despite the competitive aspect, an utmost convivial atmos-
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phere rules.
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DARK DOG MOTO TOUR / OPEN TO EVERYONE !
st On the 1 of October 2011, ,the DARK DOG MOTO TOUR will take off in Val de Reuil in Normandy, from there it’ll head Westwards via Angers, Boulazac and the track of Albi, then it’ll continue to the Pôle Mécanique of Alès, and from there to Toulon and a to and fro to the beautiful Corse, where we’ll enjoy the magnificent small Corsican roads for 1 day and then return to Toulon and end the week with the mythical special of Mont Faron and a big closing party with a concert, paella, ... In total there’ll be 9 specials on road, 2 on track, 2 regularity stages and a marathon round, i.e. almost 2 300 km. In each village of the tour, a bivouac will be set up, where the true passion of motorcycle riding rules !
To subscribe for this 9th edition of the DARK DOG MOTO TOUR or for more information, go to www.moto-tour.com.
UP TO THE WEST AND CORSE IN 2011
This race unites about 200 participants coming from all over Europe under the beautiful autumn sun in the South of France at the beach of Mourillon in Toulon.
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TRIPY II, A MUST HAVE FOR EVERY TOUR LOVER
A silent co-pilot The brains behind the Tripy (Belgians) find it very important that motorcycle riders can create their own itinerary. Contrary to other GPS devices, the Tripy doesn’t decide which way you should follow (although you can opt for this function), you chose which way you go. The Tripy then configures your choice into a detailed road book that you can follow step by step, whether you’re on road, off road, on little country roads or in the middle of the desert. The Silverblack screen offers impeccable readability, even in full sun, and guides you to your destination in a simple way with the dot/arrow mode, just like in car rallies. If you prefer to travel the traditional way, you can opt for the conventional scrolling map.
Just like GSM’s, a GPS has become an omnipresent tool in our day-to-day lives. The market is flooded with heaps of brands yet not one of them has the many characteristics of the Tripy. This GPS was developed by motorcycle riders for motorcycle riders. And although the Tripy of the second generation is also a GPS, it’s the many specific characteristics developed for safe motorcycle riding that distinguish this device from the rest.
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A MUST HAVE
In a way, the Tripy is your silent electronic co-pilot that doesn’t nag your ears off if you decide to change directions !
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TRIPY II / A MUST HAVE
It takes some time and effort to create your own itinerary. This now is made a lot easier thanks to the Road Tracer Pro software which you can find on the site (http://www.tripy.eu /EN/road/road-tracer/benefits). You can even include little insignificant roads or an off-road path where no other GPS would ever lead you. The site also allows you to visualise your itinerary on Google Earth and you can even download topographical maps on a large scale.
The database of the Tripy II also includes 800.000 points of interest. Going from restaurants over service stations, local attractions or cash machines. Always interesting… With the Tripy II, the route is more important than the destination and those who enjoy nice tours will be pleased with this device… It has a 15 hour autonomy and can be recharged through an outlet or through a 12V cigarette lighter socket. The entire Tripy II Europe package is for sale at the price of 648 € VAT incl. and comes with a 5 year warranty !
NOW YOU UNDERSTAND WHY TRIPY IS LINKED TO ALL IMPORTANT RALLIES SUCH AS PARIS-DAKAR, THE DARK DOG MOTO TOUR OR THE MONTE CARLO HISTORIQUE, TO NAME A FEW. Take-away Road book
Lots of functions
You can also just lay back and enjoy the work of others. There are already more than 550 road books available to download or pre-programmed in the Tripy memory, i.e. more than 300.000 km throughout Europa.
Road book : via the site www.tripy.eu, you can plan your route metre by metre, the Tripy II then transforms this information into a dot/arrow road book or into a map and guides you along your route with the help of 16 satellites.
As already mentioned, the GPS Tripy II can also be used as a plain GPS to go from point A to point B via the shortest, fastest or most scenic tourist routes. Up to you !
GPS : brings you to the destination of your choice via the shortest, fastest or most scenic tourist route.
On your demand, it also registers your specific points of interest. Tripmaster : you get information regarding your speed, distance and position. Radar surveillance : all fixed speed cameras and places where mobile radars are set up are communicated (as well as all other points of interest you enter in this function) LapTimer : you get information about the duration of your tour. Up to date : free updates are regularly available. RoadTracer Pro software : you can create your own routes, interesting addresses etc. and share them with others. You can also print your road book or map on paper.
Recording function : when riding on or off-road, the Tripy II records your itinerary so you can repeat the same route later on or share it with your friends.
Free training Each Tuesday, the manufacturer of the Tripy II offers free training sessions through the internet. This way you can discover all functions of the Tripy II.
More information can be found on www.community.tripy.eu
crédit photo : www.truebikerspirit.com
Define your own itinerary
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WE’RE OFF, AND HOW ! WARM UP 22
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DRIVERSDAYS / WE’RE OFF
The launch of the second season of the Drivers’ Days was a complete success. To the joy of the many participants, the sun shone all day through this season’s opener at Francorchamps mid April.
For the occasion, several companies had invited their VIP to discover the charms of the track of the Ardennes, as a passenger or behind the steering wheel, accompanied by an experienced co-pilot. It was a complete success. We can hardly wait for the next DriversDays !
THERE ARE 13 EVENTS ON OUR PROGRAMME FOR THIS YEAR, ON THE TRACK OF FRANCORCHAMPS, IN METTET AND ON THE BUGATTI TRACK OF LE MANS. Many of these days take place during the weekend and you can benefit from the many services we offer.
Prestigious cars, sporty bolides and more modest vehicles, a perfect mixture for a wonderful day. Thanks to the perfect conditions and the good organisation there were no incidents. Just pure fun.
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DRIVERSDAYS / BRUNO RAAS
There’s a simple explanation to this : behind the steering
utmost successful promotional event for my company. » FASHIONABLE…
wheel is Bruno Raas, who has done this mythical climb many times before during the 24 Hours of Liège, while his passenger is a customer of his company Green Clean, who’s discovering the magic of this
INTERVIEW WITH BRUNO RAAS, THE BOSS OF GREEN CLEAN A radiant sun shines above Francorchamps. The track is magnificent. The first DriversDays of the 2011 season is an immediate success. A white Porsche Boxter cabriolet appears in the Source, ready to attack the Raidillon.
The rider is confident and at ease, but can the same be said of his passenger ?
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wonderful track for the first time ! « I’m a real fan of mechanics, Bruno confides us when getting out of his car, and I want to share that passion with others. I first thought about a motorcycle experience, but that includes risks, unforeseeable reactions of the passengers, it’s not possible to do this in all safety. And that’s why I turned to a car. I invite about 10 VIP of my cleaning company to experience an unforgettable day. You should hear them during lunch, all those stories about their runs on Francorchamps and the sensations they experienced ! For this kind of incentive, the DriversDays are perfect. The organisation is impeccable and because I have double nationalities, Belgian and Swiss, that’s an aspect I appreciate very much the atmosphere is very convivial yet serious. This is an
Green Clean is a cleaning company based in Brussels, meant for companies and offices. There are fortyfive people working for the company. Green Clean only works with ecological products, that explains the name. « These products are more expensive, says the manager, but we’re precursors. And it’s necessary to save our planet. We also have a property audit service that analyses financial projects, investments, financial plans and maintenance costs, in order to give companies a global view of the costs of their property or future properties. » A MOTORCYCLE AT 40… Bruno Raas is 52 years old but started riding motorcycles only at 40. No tourism though, ‘cause he absolutely wanted to participate at the 24 Hours of Liège. After a season of Probike, which was necessary to obtain his license, he showed up at the start of the famous Belgian Endurance race.
« After eight hours, the engine broke down » he says somewhat disappointed. Luckily that chapter was followed by another one, that did have a happy ending. The 2003 Bol d’Or at the track of Magny Cours. « With Michel Nickmans and Van Aerschoot we took the Yamaha of Zone Rouge to the 8th place, not far behind Fissette and Fastré who finished 5th. »
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DRIVERSDAYS / BMW ABOVE ALL
BMW ABOVE ALL
The DriversDays are open for all kinds of exceptional ideas and persons. All sorts of people and all kinds of machines come together in a most convivial atmosphere. But above all, you’ll find passionate people at the DriversDays. And BMW fans are easily recognisable.
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DRIVERSDAYS / BMW ABOVE ALL
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MEMBERS PASSIONATES
During the season’s opener at Francorchamps, André Martin and Daniel Fastre of the BMW Club of the South of Belgium were present. An association meant for all classic models produced by the Bavarian brand, one of the six BMW clubs in Belgium. The objective of the club is to unite, at a regular basis, fans of the brand during their many activities. As president Daniel Fastre explains, those activities go from touristic rallies of one or several days, the reading of road books, company visits (BMW of course !), over the presence during races such as the 24 Hours for cars, to track events. And it’s of course in view of their track activities that Daniel and André were in Spa. Their judgment is unanimously positive.
« There’s really nothing negative to say : a perfect welcome with the handing over of the bracelets and the necessary stickers to go on track ; coffee and croissants : a correct repartition of the groups; control at the entry of the track : everything takes place in a most friendly atmosphere. And you don t’necessarily have to own a sports car to have fun… » The proof : the BMW of the president had an LPG sticker on his trunk … « Although on track I did drive on gasoline » he admits with a big smile ! Each month about seventy members come together for the monthly meeting every 2nd Friday of the month. During these
meetings there are many discussions about the qualities of the different models. Talks about the M3, M5, M6, Coupé 3 litre CSL ex-Luigi are very common, but they also talk about the 700 Coupé Sport, with which Jacky Ickx once started, the Z1 and even the Isseta, the little round BMW with the entrance at the front.
But how does one become fan of a brand ? « That’s not easy to explain, our interlocutor continues. All of a sudden there’s that click, and although I had different cars, my heart belongs forever to BMW. » The logo of BMW is actually the propeller of an airplane, which refers to the aeronautic past of the company before they even started building cars. « For me everything started here, says André Martin. I wanted to buy a Porsche, but when I saw al those BMW’s overtake the Porsches in the Raidillon during the 24 Hours, I changed my mind. I thought to myself : a car that can overtake Porsches like that just must be a fantastic car. Ever since then I only had BMW’s. When you drive one, something happens to you, it’s impossible to describe, it’s a very strong feeling. » We’re convinced that our two friends of the BMW Club of the South of Belgium will attend many of our DirversDays, in Francorchamps as well as in Mettet, to combine the joys of track driving with the unique sensations of BMW driving.
If you require more information about the activities and advantages of the BMW Club of the South of Belgium, go to www.bmwclubsud.be or contact daniel.fastre@teledisnet.be
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