1
2
3
DESMOPHILES The Newsletter of DOCNZ Ducati Owners Club of NEW ZEALAND July - December 2015 Issue 69
REGIONAL CONTACTS Auckland Wayne Lyons 027-4728-343 Waikato Heath (Hamilton M/C) Manawatu Trevor Smart Bay of Plenty Damian Fleming (Bayride)
07-849-1919 027 727 1883 027 4428471
Hawkes Bay
COMMITTEE
President
Greg Monahan
021 851 916
Secretary Scott Palmer
021 467 757
Treasurer Nigel Taylor
027 490 3408
Editor/Publisher Richard Sabiston
Wellington Todd (Motomart) Chris Marer
0800DUCATI 027 447 4299
Nelson Greg Monahan
021 851 916
Christchurch Craig (Casbolts M/C)
03-366-4401
the above members and also the Ducati Dealer Network are a very good way to find out more about the club. All Magazine contributions and Membership Enquiries to:
webmater@docnz.co.nz
Communications Coordinator Greg Monahan
021 273 9450
editor@docnz.co.nz
Webmaster Nigel Haworth
Nigel Taylor & Claire Miller
docnz@docnz.co.nz
DOCNZ P.O.Box 6537 Marion Square Wellington 6141 NEW ZEALAND Email: secretary@docnz.co.nz
www.docnz.co.nz
4
EDITOR’S
SAY
This latest magazine has been a bit of a b#$%&@d to put together, but finally there are enough articles and reports to finish the magazine. I would also like to say a big thank you to all the people who put the articles and photos in. I have also upgrade the magazine to Publisher 2013, so I hope you like the new format. After (more than) a few trips to Motomart, a matt black 848 Streetfighter followed me home. It was a strange feeling leaving the 996 Superbike at Motomart. It was something that I had not anticipated until I drove off. The Supebike has been an unbelievable bike, in which I had a lot of incredible rides and memories. I am also glad that the new owner (also a Hutt person) will take great care of the Superbike. On the article front for the magazine. I need articles for the next magazine. Can you please contact the committee if want to be a regional contact for organising local events. I hope you enjoy the magazine, go for a ride, stay safe and make the most of the summer weather. Cheers
Richard
PRESIDENT’S
PRATTLE
Ciao a tutti / hello everyone, Warmer weather, spring blossoms and dry roads…what could be better on your Ducati. I know there’s been a lot of riding going on, so I hope your all getting race fit to ride to Wanaka in March. NDR in Taupo is like a distant memory now, a good memory, but it’s time to move forward and plan for NDR2016 in beautiful Wanaka. So with that in mind here’s the plan… North Islanders, plan to be in or around Nelson for departure south on Thursday 3rd March (about a 10am departure) so we can wait for any who stay in Picton after a late ferry crossing. Ride the Westcoast roads, with its beautiful scenery and no traffic. I imagine the best place to stay that night would be Franz Josef or Fox Glacier townships. (That’s about 6 hours of awesomeness from Nelson). The next morning depart for Wanaka with approx. 5 hours of even better roads to ride. We should plan to get to Wanaka, at the Oakridge Resort, around midafternoon. The NDR2016 will be different to those in the past.
PRESIDENT’S
PRATTLE
5
Friday will be meet and greet, around the pool, drool over the bikes and have a casual evening BBQ at the pool side. Saturday morning we will, after a riders briefing, head off past Wanaka Airfield (for those Warbirds fans) then down alongside Lake Dunstan to Cromwell, past the Highlands Motorsport Park (for any four wheeled petrol heads) then into the best gorge road in NZ, the Kawarau Gorge to the Gibbston Valley Winery Restaurant for lunch. At the Gibbston Valley Winery, we will line the bikes up with grapevines as a great backdrop for our bike show. After lunch we will continue into Queenstown for a park up on the steamer wharf and explore Queenstown for a while, enjoy a coffee on the lake edge or a glass of Pinot in a local café/bar.
When we’ve all had enough of the beautiful scenery in Queenstown, we will head for Arrowtown via Coronet Peak, then up and over the Crown Range road to regroup at the famous Cardrona Pub, before we all descend back into Wanaka Township for a “lakefront fly by” and then pool side at the Oakridge Resort for another casual pool party. Then of course we return back up to Nelson retracing our steps, or we could come back up through the Mackenzie Country and Mt Cook , Tekapo etc. All going well, we will have other surprises, special guests and treats… So please keep your eyes open for our registration page, which we will let you all know about once live. So until we have further announcements, ride safe, enjoy your Ducati and bank up your brownie points and see you in March 4th 5th and 6th in beautiful Wanaka. Ciao ciao Arrivederci Gregorio
Mecure Oakridge Resort
6
CUSTOM NIGEL
TREASURER
7 Years ago when I was in London on my OE I bought a stereo system hand crafted by a selection of fine English artisans. I still have this fine piece of audio equipment and derive great pleasure every time I break out the vinyl or cassettes. The HiFi emporium I purchased said kit from was known as Audio T in West End Lane, West Hampstead. It was located in an old bank that used the old safe deposit box room in the nether regions as the listening room; they kept the speakers to be reviewed in a walk in safe in the back wall so they wouldn’t acoustically interfere with what was being reviewed in front of you. After I selected the components I made my way upstairs to pay the princely sum of £815 for my new HiFi stereo; while undertaking the transaction I was discussing the merits of a turntable they had in stock that was worth more than that my new purchase alone when a customer next me turned to me and said “That is a very fine set up you have there, stop now while you can”. The same customer was shelling out over £800 for a single stylus. What has this got to do with motorbikes you may well wonder, well perhaps I should have listened to that advice when I started the DB1 rebuild, however there was no one around at the time to remind me of the perils of becoming addicted to one’s passion. This episode features a new hugger for the bike, the old set up featured a flexible rubber curtain hung between the sub frame and the swing arm to stop road rubbish being flung onto the shock and the back of the engine. It also prevented any easy access to those bits; so a while back I decided to fashion up a hugger. Phil, at Desmocycles in Dunsandle, had an old Ducati 851 Tri Colour hugger that fitted the bill nicely – remembering that both bikes were supplied with 16” rims made compatibility problems a non-issue. The 851 unit was a big ugly thing with integral chain guard and not at all like the svelte items you see fitted today; so out came the tin snips and after a bit of aggressive shearing I had a shape I was happy with. Now how to mount it? One of the problems of changing jobs is you can’t always guarantee that the new position comes with easy access to a machine shop. My current employer does have a machine shop, unfortunately it is located in Dannevirke, which is a step too far when it comes to doing Saturday morning perks. To get the hugger mounted I packed the whole back end on the bike up in a left over flat screen TV carton and sent it to Steve Bridge at F1 Engineering – he worked his magic and made a great little bracket all anodised up in black that now holds the new hugger in place. I am now able to drop the bike off the engine stand and get on with bolting everything back together; but that will have to wait until after a long overdue week long holiday in Fiji. Next episode will feature overcoming the dilemma of which brake and clutch lever set to go with. MotoTT track day double header at Taupo all booked for March next year and working on leave options for NDR2016. Current Account $15,918 Deposit Account $6061 Cheers for now Nigel
8
SECRETARY REPORT
“POSTMAN”
Welcome to yet another fantastic issue, thanks Richard for the many hours you pour into making this magazine the great publication that it is. He can’t do it without your input though so please consider sending in a photo or two of anything slightly relevant along with a few words. You should all have well and truly received your member packs from Ducati (unless you have recently joined), what a treat that was addressing and sending 250ish packs. The Italian T-shirt size and style differs somewhat from NZ, Something to remember when filling out the membership form next year. Greg has been a busy beaver getting all the NDR info together, it is shaping up to be a cracker event in amazing surrounds. I’ve registered, best you get into it sooner rather than later as spaces are filling fast. I'd better go, time to channel my travel experience. Scott.
ACCIDENTAL REFLECTION-DUC
DOWN
9
On the 29th May this year I was involved in a head on collision with a rather large 50 tonne truck around the East Coast between Te Kaha and Waihou Bay. I was very lucky to only have a traumatic dislocation of the right hip, a rather swollen knee and a wound in my right shin. Eight weeks on when I thought I would have recovered I am still looking at another two months at least before Getting back on a bike. Could be earlier but I am willing to wait until I am fully recovered and have regained a reasonable level of fitness. There have been many thoughts that penetrate your mind following an accident of which I will attempt to put into writing and maybe one of our members may be able to recognise a similar situation before it happens. Of course there is the writing off of a wonderful 999s that has had a fair amount of time and money passionately invested.
10 ACCIDENTAL REFLECTION Yes after 8 weeks of running the accident over and over in my mind I have put the blame for the accident on myself. For some reason a sense of denial was the first response of my thoughts, or was it an unwillingness to admit to fellow riders and friends that I had made poor decisions leading up to the accident. I was booked for a track day on the Monday at Hamptons but the weather was looking to be very poor so I decided to change the day off to the Friday before hand. A couple of mates were talking about a ride around the East Coast to Waihau Bay and back. The bike wouldn’t start due to a flat battery. I knew the battery was dodgy and had one due in from Auckland so had tried to fire the bike up well before the ride. I woke up thinking “I’m not that fussed about riding today”. Not a bad day for golf, that’s it I made my mind up I would play golf and not ride. My friend had other ideas though “I’ll pull the battery out of the R1, do you think that will fit?” I told him not to worry but he did and turned up with the aforementioned battery. Of course it wouldn’t fit. “Why don’t we pull the battery out of your ST…that should fit”? Of course it did and the 999 fired up no problem. So the ride was on. Try telling your mates you would rather play golf than go riding. Yep, maybe I will in the future.
The two other riders are very accomplished fast track riders who know the road very well…maybe I can do all right on a track day but I was not familiar with the road. I did not recognise what may have made me feel a bit iffy about a ride that day, and that was the feeling of being in the groove, you know, relaxed. As riders I think we all know when we feel at one with the bike and the less often times when we are not.
BY
NICK LOOIJEN 11
So what happened? I am still trying to get my head around the exact details around the seconds leading up to the accident and perhaps that is a clue. Where did the truck come from? Suddenly it was there partially on my side of the road, swinging wide to come around a Left hand bend before the right hand bend I was travelling around. The sun and my inattention are all I can put it down to. Inattention due to me having no clue the truck was coming, resulting in panic that saw me grabbing a fistful of front brake that took me 100mm over the centreline and into the corner of the truck. I know this as the policeman measured the wheel impact mark on the road. Both the truck driver and the police concurred that I had not been doing anything dangerous so a ticket was issued for failing to stay in my lane, with no prosecution required for dangerous riding. After all it was only a leisurely coffee ride and we were just enjoying an easy ride around the coast.
12 ACCIDENTAL REFLECTION Target fixation then, could I have avoided the impact by looking where I wanted to go? My memory is that I only had time to grab the brake and Bang, it was all over. By the time I looked for an out option it would be too late. I recall a subject that came up at the AGM this year in Taupo. It was regarding the organisation of the Saturday morning run around the lake. There was a complaint that some riders treated the road as a racetrack with no one looking after the tail end riders who may have been new to the club and maybe even getting a poor impression of the clubs intent. Maybe I was guilty of being one of those riders but I would now quite happily volunteer to look after tail end Charlies at any organised rides that I may be part of in the future. Really I find it hard to believe that I let this happen. I am lucky that my better half has agreed for me to continue riding. What will I do to reduce the risk in the future? Attend Pro Rider courses and leave a higher percentage of ability in the bank, particularly if it is one of those “I do not feel in the groove” days and let’s face it, you could be in the middle of a two week tour with a group so the decision to not ride on the day is not an option. If I had seen the truck
BY
NICK LOOIJEN 13
approaching, a strategy for avoidance in case of something going pear shaped should have been part of my thinking. After pulling my helmet off, looking at my out of shape leg and as a first aider trying to assess my injuries and checking myself to make sure I wasn’t going into shock I rang the wife first before the ambulance. Putting my family through the worry and panic once they had found out I had been involved in an accident is one thing, I have also learnt that old bodies do not heal as well as they used to, and having to rely on your family to look after you and take over your responsibilities for a period not only sucks for me but more so for the family. I think listening to what your gut is trying to tell you may be one of the greatest lessons, and then making decisions to reduce risk based on those feelings is very important. One thing for sure is I do not want to quit riding. The St4s will be the sole motorcycle in the garage for a while. The Rescue helicopter guys were fantastic and the support from my riding buddies has been absolutely great. It wasn’t nice for them to come back around the corner and see the truck and bike but no sign of me. Not something I would like to repeat again so let’s all keep ourselves safe and have some fun at the same time!
14 DUCATI WORLD PREMIERE 2016
Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati, presented seven new motorcycles for the 2016 range in Milan, on the eve of EICMA (19-22 November 2015). The press conference offered Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati Motor Holding, a perfect opportunity to unveil the latest bikes and sum up developments on the market and at Ducati. The Ducati World Première 2016 showcased several new bikes: two new Ducati Scramblers, the Flat Track Pro version and the all-new Sixty2; the new Hypermotard 939, Hypermotard 939 SP and Hyperstrada 939 family; the new Panigale 959; the Multistrada 1200 Pikes Peak; the new Multistrada 1200 Enduro and the eagerly awaited XDiavel. During the press conference Claudio Domenicali stated “In 2015 Ducati has sold over 50,000 bikes. A huge success that was achieved without growth being a goal in itself. It was, rather, the result of our customers being extremely satisfied with our products" and "After a long period of shrinkage, the motorcycle market is now showing promising signs of recovery and this, together with the effects of continuous product innovation and geographical expansion into new markets, has allowed us to increase sales in the first ten months of 2015 by more than 20% with respect to last year. These outstanding result, are based on the success of the Ducati Scrambler, a brand that won over new fans immediately. The message is clear: Ducati is strongly rooted in
DUCATI AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND
15
the sports motorcycle world and is continuing to extend its reach. This has allowed Ducati the means to expansion into new segments like the XDiavel, a true cruiser; the Wild like the Multistrada 1200 Enduro, a bike to break down the barriers on any terrain and the likes of the Ducati Scrambler Sixty2, an even lighter Ducati Scrambler with all the appeal of its smaller 400 cc engine. In total there were seven new bikes at EICMA 2015. These, together with the Monster 1200 R, already presented at Frankfurt, and a new Ducati Scrambler version developed jointly with Italian Independent to be presented at the end of the year, bring the number of new Ducati bikes for 2016 to nine.” One of the most eagerly awaited bikes at EICMA 2015 was undoubtedly the XDiavel: in short, the “black” world cited in the title of the Ducati World Première 2016. This intriguing new bike sees Ducati enter the Cruiser world in its own inimitable way by presenting a true cruiser that has all the design, technology and performance one expects from a Ducati thoroughbred. Called the XDiavel it brings together two worlds. The Cruiser world of low speeds, relaxed riding and long journeys and the Ducati world, characterised by Italian style, refined engineering and unparalleled performance. The XDiavel offers both the “low speed excitement” that comes from the relaxed riding and further-forward footpegs typical of a cruiser and the adrenaline rush of sports riding that Ducati has made its own. That's what the X in XDiavel stands for, the merging of two apparently separate,
16 DUCATI WORLD PREMIERE 2016 distant worlds on one bike, a superb combination where both are accomplished without compromise. 5,000, 60 and 40. These three numbers sum up the XDiavel concept. 5,000 as in the rpm at which the new twin-cylinder 156 hp Ducati Testastretta DVT 1262 engine achieves maximum torque (13.1 kgm). 60 as in the number of different ergonomic configurations for the rider. Lastly, 40, as in the maximum attainable lean angle. The XDiavel is the first Ducati to use belt-type final transmission, a must within the Cruiser world. The Bosch Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), together with Ducati Traction Control (DTC), Riding Modes, Bosch Cornering ABS, Cruise Control and the innovative Ducati Power Launch (DPL) system, make the XDiavel a technological gem offering high performance and safety. An S version of the XDiavel is also available.
DUCATI AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND
17
18 DUCATI WORLD PREMIERE 2016 The all-new Multistrada 1200 Enduro opens up a whole new “Wild” world and represents Ducati's entry into the maxi-enduro segment. Born to explore, unstoppable on any terrain, the Multistrada 1200 Enduro is a full-optional bike designed to satisfy even the most demanding globetrotter. Moreover, it's a maxienduro that has specifically been designed and built to handle the stress and strain of off-road riding. Thanks to spoked wheels, 19’’ at the front and 17’’ at the rear, the Multistrada 1200 Enduro is perfect for long adventure rides. Featuring electronic semi-active Sachs suspension (front and rear) and a 30-litre fuel tank, the Multistrada 1200 Enduro is at home on any terrain and is unstoppable thanks to a range that can exceed 450 kilometres. On the Multistrada 1200 Enduro Cornering ABS, Cornering Lights (DCL), Ducati Traction Control (DTC), Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) and the semi-active Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS)
DUCATI AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND
19
Evolution system, with 200 mm of wheel travel, all come as standard. Moreover, Vehicle Hold Control (VHC) has been introduced to aid uphill starts. Lastly, in parallel with the Multistrada 1200 Enduro itself, a broad range of dedicated accessories, the most important being an aluminium luggage set has also been developed. Control (DWC) and the semi-active Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS) Evolution system, with 200 mm of wheel travel, all come as standard. Moreover, Vehicle Hold Control (VHC) has been introduced to aid uphill starts. Lastly, in parallel with the Multistrada 1200 Enduro itself, a broad range of dedicated accessories, the most important being an aluminium luggage set has also been developed.
20 DUCATI WORLD PREMIERE 2016 The third of the ‘new worlds’ that Ducati has entered with its new 2016 bikes, just had to have a link to the Scrambler “Land of Joy”. The Ducati Scrambler Sixty2 doesn't just extend the range on offer from the new Ducati brand. It opens the way for a new two-wheel segment that meets the requirements of those seeking an affordable bike that's easy to handle and has low running costs, but simply can’t do without that unique Ducati Scrambler spirit of fun and shared thrills. The Sixty2 is a Ducati Scrambler that draws its inspiration from youth street culture, skateboards, street food, pop music and, above all, the pop art that, back in 1962 (the year the very first Ducati Scrambler was launched), was taking the United States by storm. That's why the Sixty2, a true "people's" Ducati Scrambler, is already a "pop icon". With the Sixty2, the highly expressive Ducati Scrambler design takes on a fresh look thanks to a slimline steel tank with dedicated graphics and logos. This makes the Sixty2 immediately recognisable, as do its three exclusive colours. Anti-conformist, affordable and essential, the Sixty2 once again provides that perfect Ducati Scrambler mix of tradition and modernity, a mix now closer than ever to the essence of motorcycling. Two wheels and a simple 399 cc engine that guarantees tons of fun. Wide handlebars and a long seat ensure a comfortable, relaxed riding position. The low barycentre and a new 160/60 x 17" rear tyre with a slightly chunky surface pattern ensure great handling and pure enjoyment whatever the situation, not to mention confident braking thanks to the asstandard ABS. (Note; Scrambler Sixty2 will be LAMs approved for Australia and New Zealand). Also in attendance at the Ducati World Première 2016 were some of Ducati's top riders. Both official MotoGP riders - Andrea Dovizioso and Andrea Iannone were there to ride the new Hypermotards 939 onto the stage; the event also saw
DUCATI AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND
21
Davide Giugliano in the spotlight on the new Panigale 959 (he's now ready to return to the track on his SBK following a serious fall at Laguna Seca). Also present in Milan was Troy Bayliss, there to endorse - and sing the praises of - the Flat Track Pro version of the Ducati Scrambler. The Ducati World Première 2016 also offered a perfect opportunity to officially inform all the fans and enthusiasts the dates for the next WDW, the legendary two-yearly Ducatisti global gathering. This is now set to take place from 1 to 3 July 2016. In addition to the bikes, Ducati also presented a host of new accessories, special parts and a new clothing collection for 2016; the latter featuring both the more 'technical' items and eyecatching apparel and accessories fully dedicated to the Ducati Scrambler world. A preview of the collection took place at the Fonderia Napoleonica Eugenia in Milan, an event that saw press, public and fans make their way through the engagingly original Ducati Scrambler “Land of Joy”.
22
MOTOGP
WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP 2016 23
Race Calendar 20 Mar - Qatar* - Losail 3 April - Argentina - Termas del Rio Hondo 10 April - Americas - Austin 24 April - Spain - Jerez de la Frontera** 8 May - France - Le Mans 22 May - Italy - Mugello 5 June - Catalunya Catalunya-Barcelona 26 June - Netherlands Assen 17 July - Germany Sachsenring 14 August - Austria - Red Bul Ring 21 August - Czech Republic Brno** 4 September - Great Britain Silverstone 11 September - San Marino & Riviera di Rimini - Marco Simoncelli Misano 25 September - Aragon Motorland 16 October - Japan - Motegi 23 October - Australia - Philip Island 30 October - Malaysia Sepang 13 November - Valencia Ricardo Tormo-Valencia * Night Race ** Subject to Contract
24 SUPERBIKE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP 2016
Race Calendar 22 Feb Australia, Phillip Island GP Circuit 11 Mar Thailand, Chang International Circuit 1 Apr Spain, MotorLand Aragon 15 Apr The Netherlands, TT Assen 29 Apr Italy, Enzo e Dino Ferrari di Imola 13 May Malaysia, Sepang International Circuit 27 May England, Donington Park 17 Jun Italy, Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli 8 Jul USA, Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca 22 Jul Portugal, Aut贸dromo Internacional do Algave 16 Sep Germany, Lausitzring 30 Sep France, Circuit de Magny-Cours 14 Oct Spain, Circuito de Jerez 28 Oct Qatar, Losail International Circuit
25
26 INSIDE THE BRITTEN TEAM Hamish Lamont worked for Britten Motorcycle Company in the early 90’s when the team competed in BEARS and ran the Britten V1000 for the first time in the NZ F1 Championship, coming second in their first season of competition. Hamish helped organize the 2015 BEARS Sound of Thunder ‘John Britten Tribute’ and was asked to write this article which appeared in the Race Program. 2015 marks 20 years since John’s death. Editor - Hamish thanks for your friends photo of his 900SS. That models was my first in the Ducati world and I have always loved their look. To good not to be on the front cover. I first got to know John in my early 20’s when I worked at the travel agency that was diagonally opposite John’s building on the corners of Hereford and Manchester St. John was saying to his old friend Liz Harris - who I worked with - that he desperately needed help running the business. Ideally he wanted someone who was into motorcycles, (I had a Kawasaki ZZ-R1100 and a Ducati Paso) had some engineering aptitude and could write a good letter. Liz dropped me in it! John turned up on my doorstep one night and asked me (in that inimitably shy, self-effacing way of his) would there be any way I might consider working for him...? Of course, I couldn’t wait to say yes! So in he wheeled a Mercedes SL full of boxes, overflowing with paper: correspondence, ideas, etc. I stayed up until 5am, sorted, catalogued and priortised it, and took it in to Brittco with a ‘report’ before I started work. I was hired! I worked part time for John over the next couple of seasons. My role was officially ‘race team manager’ but in reality it was loose, broad and varied and involved everything from organizing all the travel, dealing with correspondence from prospective Britten buyers, dealing with sponsors and fronting the media, to designing a carbon fibre covered log book for the customer bikes and writing a proposal and submitting designs for a V1000 road bike. As far as race team management went, I was pretty green and, as Craig Roberts and Casbolts are big supporters of Britten today, John Shand gave me a lot of help and advice back then. Britten Motorcycle Co was a collection of personalities rather than a cohesive unit, with many very talented people all bonded together by a passion for motorcycles and John’s boyish and very infectious enthusiasm. When he got going, John’s natural shyness was replaced by a steely resolve to get things done and he would work tirelessly to achieve his goals. On the periphery of the core group were an army of equally clever people, all seemingly on standby to help John at a moment’s notice.
BY
HAMISH LAMONT 27
Chaos, adventure and sometimes danger were also but a moment away, usually instigated by John. He was always late for meetings. 70mph down Memorial Ave in the passenger seat of a LHD car is an ‘interesting’ experience. (I paid him back by taking him around Ruapuna on the back of my ZZ-R1100, as fast as I could go!) John and the team were making history as they went, and making it up as they went along, so improvisation and innovation were the name of the game. Revised dimensions for the V1000 Britten were first worked out by cutting up a V1100 poster. A crated bike, just about to head away, would suddenly need to be uncrated because John had ‘remembered’ something. Post-race repairs might see the Britten turning up at the garage of a local backyard motorcycle mechanic. One time, after such a repair, ‘testing’ was carried out on a deserted rural road. Not so remote, as an irate local farmer called the cops on us because ‘some idiot’ was screaming up and down a public highway (at over 250km/h. With no warrant. And no rego). The traffic cop was very unimpressed and seemed not to be a motorcycle enthusiast. How John talked us out of that one I still don’t know. I suggested a Jedi mind trick. John and I had some fun commentating the BEARS support races at the last New
28 BRITTEN MOTORCYCLES Zealand WSBK round in Manfield. After doing the Saturday on my own, I made John (very reluctantly) join me in the tower on race day, and he became very animated. Had it been televised, there would have been a lot of bleeps! We also explored the possibility of Raymond Roche riding the Britten, but it never eventuated, I think due to John deciding that Raymond would think the Britten was rubbish. Again, always modest to a fault. I recall the Ducati mechanics were all over our pit like ants on candy. Soon after the Ducati Supermono was released and John was incensed at how much the Ducati resembled the Britten. Though it took Ducati two decades more to bring some of John’s other innovations to the street with the Panigale. Post-race there was always a night out. My wages were often paid in food, beer and spending money. John would often give me a $100 note with his thumb over a ‘0’. “Here’s 10 bucks!” Or with a grin, offer me a “20”, really $50, in reference to his dyslexia. By mid 1993 John needed a full-time manager and he couldn’t compete with my free overseas travel. However, we’d still occasionally catch up for Pizza or John would call me for a favour.
BY
HAMISH LAMONT 29
I remember John proudly ‘demonstrating’ his new TVR to me and if we ever ran into each other around the streets of Christchurch when I was on my bike, he would always want to race me. John was always up for fun. But moreover he was a guy with vast talent and boundless resourcefulness. He once tracked me down at my girlfriend’s parent’s house, phoning
me for a favour, from the Isle of Man!! How, I’ll never know because, despite having met her many times, he could never remember her name. Typical John. John’s illness came as such a shock. I simply couldn’t believe that someone with his amazing energy, drive and love for life could be taken so soon. His send offs, both his public funeral and his wake at the amazing home he converted from stables in Matai St - which was ‘the party of all parties’ - were a testament to the amazing person he was. While John was incredibly successful in many of his innovative ventures, his true wealth was his family and friends. He left an indelible, lasting impression on everyone he met, me included. Even now I’m influenced by his philosophy and I’m building a custom Ducati Supersport, with many one-off parts, which is recognized in the international Ducati community as one of the best around. I know John would approve.
30 DUCATI 900 SD DARMAH A change swept through motorcycling during the mid 1970s. The era of functional minimalism that dominated motorcycle design of the 1960s and early 1970s was displaced by styling and fashion. Buoyed by a sales boom and the arrival of a new generation of Japanese Superbikes the market also demanded more refinement, and improved ergonomics. Ducati responded with the 900 Sport Darmah, the most radical incarnation of the bevel-drive twin yet. Instead of producing what they believed the market wanted (such as the 860 GT and parallel twin), Ducati now took a pragmatic approach. The 900 SD was the first Ducati to feature Japanese instruments and switches, German ignition, cast alloy wheels, and a hydraulic steering damper. In ancillary and electrical equipment the 900 SD was a huge step forward for Ducati, and apart from the engine few parts were shared with the earlier 860s. The prototype 900 Sport “Darmah�
was displayed at the Bologna show at the end of 1976 with the first examples appearing by August 1977. Many engine improvements were introduced with the Darmah, including a stronger crankshaft, with needle roller big-end bearings and a larger diameter crankpin. The left side gearshift
BY
IAN FALOON 31
and selector mechanism was improved and a Bosch electronic ignition provided a gentler ignition advance. All Darmahs were electric start, although early examples retained the kick start lever.
Unlike the previous 860 GT the cylinder heads were desmodromic, and basically shared with the 900 Super Sport. As an electric start Super Sport the Darmah opened the Ducati world to a far wider customer base.
Also contributing to the wider appeal of the Darmah was higher quality equipment to previous Ducatis. While the suspension was the usual Ceriani or Marzocchi, and the brakes Brembo, the
32 DUCATI 900 SD DARMAH Darmah was the first Ducati to follow the fashion of fitting cast alloy wheels. Initially these were magnesium Campagnolo, followed by Speedline and aluminium FPS. The new bodywork also emphasised style over function, the steel fuel tank holding a miserable 15 litres. With barely a 200km range the Darmah was certainly not a long distance touring motorcycle in the mould of a BMW. Early models had the distinctive whale tail seat and were red and white or black and gold like this 1978 version. The thin seat padding made long distance riding only for masochists. Japanese Nippon Denso instruments and switches set the 900 SD apart from earlier Ducatis. For the first time on a Ducati the speedometer needle didn’t waver within a 40km/h band and you could actually turn the lights on at the handlebar. And the headlight was a powerful 180mm Bosch so you could see where you were going at night. While the Bosch electrical system was vastly improved there was still room for improvement as all the fuses and relays were mounted underneath the steering head and vulnerable to water sprayed from the front wheel. The dashboard warning lights also included a side stand and neutral indicator that rarely worked. By 1979 the Darmah was Ducati’s most popular model. The recipe of an easy to live with 860 twin with good performance and handling worked. Most owners replaced the standard Lafranconi or Silentium mufflers with Contis and the Darmah was a sport touring motorcycle to rival the best on offer. In Australia they were also a lot cheaper than equivalent European offerings and a viable alternative to the Japanese Superbikes. But after 1981 the Darmah struggled to match the more powerful offerings from Japan and demand diminished. With its twin shock rear end and 18-inch wheels with skinny tyres the Darmah was now seen as an anachronism. Ducati tried one final brave attempt at
BY
IAN FALOON 33
34 DUCATI 900 SD DARMAH updating the Darmah for 1982 but this really only extended to a new colour scheme. Thirty years on the Darmah languishes in the hierarchy of classic Ducatis, seen more of a late 1970s styling statement than a serious sporting motorcycle. The Darmah may be unappreciated but is a bargain for those wishing to enter the world of bevel-drive Ducatis. Five things about the Darmah 1. The Darmah was designed by Leopoldo Tartarini. Tartarini had a long association with Ducati, spending a year riding a 175 around the world in 1958 and styling the 750 Sport and Desmo singles. 2. “Darmah” came from the name of a tiger in an Italian children’s story. 3. In 1979 the 900 SD Darmah evolved into the short-lived 900 SSD Darmah, with Super Sport style fairing, clip-on handlebars, and rear-set footpegs. 4. During 1981 all Darmahs in Australia were recalled to replace faulty Campagnolo and Speedline magnesium wheels with aluminium FPS. 5. Total Darmah production was 5,598 between 1977 and 1982, with 1,567 coming to Australia.
BY
IAN FALOON 35
36 DUCATI 900SS ADJUSTABLE TRIPLES Hi Richard, Here's some bling that’s going on my 'once upon a time' '89 Ducati 900SS. Adjustable offset triples for Ohlins forks. The bike has Ohlins R&Ts with radial caliper plates and Brembo Monoblocs. Cheers Hamish
BY
HAMISH LAMONT 37
APEX Auto Centre
The Brake and Cable Specialists FOR HARD TO SOURCE CABLES, BRAKE PARTS OR HOSES.......
Call the Specialists Specifically for motorcycles we supply and repair:
Brake Shoe Rebonding Hydraulic Cylinders - Brake Master, Wheel Cylinders, Calipers Centrifugal Clutches WEB: www.apexautocentre.co.nz PHONE: 0800 10 27 39 EMAIL: parts@apexautocentre.co.nz
38
2015
MEMBERSHIP 39
What's in it for me? Membership of Ducati Owners Club New Zealand has its benefits . . . - Membership of the official Ducati Desmo Owners Club. You will receive a T-shirt and numerous other items each year. - High quality club magazine "Desmophiles" which is published numerous times a year. - Monthly regional, informal, get togethers. Follow the link to your region from the home page for details. - The opportunity to attend the National Ducati Rally each year as well as any other club events. - Discounted insurance for your Ducati via an agreement secured with Ducati Gold Insurance (specialists in Motorcycle Insurance). - Free guided tours of the Ducati factory and museum in Bologna. - A discount at the Ducati store in Bologna. - Discounted ferry bookings for events. - 10% off parts and accessories at selected dealers. To join the club, email secretary@docnz.co.nz
40
41
42 DOCNZ CLUB NIGHTS
Auckland Birdcage Bar & Grill , 133 Franklin Road , Victoria Park , Freemans Bay 1st Wednesday of each month from 7.30pm Hamilton Hamilton Motorcycle Centre, Te Rapa Road, Hamilton 3rd Tuesday of each month from 7.30pm Wellington The Featherston Bar and Grill, Corner Featherston & Johnston Street 3rd Tuesday of each month from 6.00pm (although Lynda is usually there from about 5.15pm) Nelson Speight's Ale House , 99 Quarantine Road, Stoke, Nelson 1st Tuesday of each month from 7.30pm (In conjunction with DOC Nelson) Christchurch Smash Palace Bar on High Street. 1st Thursday of each month from 7.30pm (In conjunction with DONZ)
43
44 CLUB REGALIA
CLUB REGALIA PRICE LIST Shirts $25 Caps $15 Beanies $15
Anyone interested please contact secretary@docnz.co.nz
45
DUCATI GOLD INSURANCE A specialised tailor-made insurance package for Ducati Owners featuring:
Highly competitive rates Sensible excess Flexible payment options Bonus – interest free monthly payment scheme Reduced premiums 0800 helpline service for policy holders Accessories and riding gear cover included in each policy
Phone, fax or e-mail for a no obligation quote
CASBOLTS MOTORCYCLES 39 MANCHESTER ST CHRISTCHURCH Ph 03-366-4401, Ph & fax 03-366-4402 E-mail sales@casbolts.co.nz
46 DESMOPHILES ADVERTISING RATES IF YOU'RE IN THE BUSINESS OF DUCATI MOTORCYCLES YOU MAY WISH TO REACH YOUR TARGET AUDIENCE THROUGH THIS SPECIAL INTEREST CLUB MAGAZINE SIZE
1 ISSUE
3 ISSUES
6 ISSUES
1/8 page
$15.00
$30.00
50.00
1/4 page
$20.00
$35.00
$60.00
1/2 page
$35.00
$70.00
$110.00
Full page
$65.00
$110.00
$200.00
Payment is due at the time of placement of advert.
Club Classifieds
MAGAZINE
Free classified advertising for club members is available on the DOCNZ website. Registered users can surf to www.docnz.co.nz, click the Forums link, and use the Buy/Sell/Swap forum. If you have any queries or need help please email webmaster@docnz.co.nz.
CONTRIBUTIONS
Magazine Contributions should be sent to: The Editor P.O.Box 6537 Marion Square Wellington 6141 NEW ZEALAND Email: editor@docnz.co.nz Deadlines are the 1st February, April, June, August, October and December for issues due out towards the end of the month. Display advertising is available for business – please contact the secretary. Rates above.
PICTURE
CREDITS
Cover photo: Mario Vila Accident Reflection - DUC Down: Nick Looijen Ducati Premiere 2016: Ducati Australia and New Zealand Inside the Britten Team: Hamish Lamont Ducati 900SD Darmah: Ian Faloon Ducati 900ss Adjustable Triples: Hamish Lamont
47
48