Enduro world November 2015 preview

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THE BEST RIDE YOU’LL EVER READ

RSA R33.00 /#144 November 2015

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In this issue: Husqvarna 2016 MX Bikes launched | Brian Capper - My Story | 2016 Beta 300RR Test | Roof Prep part 2 | 2016 KTM XC-W Test | Red Bull Braveman | Amageza Rally | SBS Race Report from around the world & much more. . . SUBSCRIBE & STAND A CHANCE TO WIN A SET OF JT RACING GEAR


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hen you learn to scuba dive or to fly an aeroplane or anything potentially dangerous, they usually teach you that one of the biggest dangers to guard against is … STRESS. I can think of a sport that sends many more people to the hospital than diving or flying … he said sitting with a leg in a moon-boot, the ache in his fractured heel reminding him of ANOTHER 6 to 9 weeks recovery. I think we should teach about avoiding stress build-up in dirt biking? Here’s an example of how stress quietly creeps in and spoils your day. We went off to Lesotho to train and check out some tracks for our Roof Training Tours. My good friend Eric, who had tried desperately to overcome the riding infection and had not ridden much for 8 months, made the “sacrifice” and came along as my riding buddy. Friday afternoon’s 60km ride took us on some Roof Gold routes from last year which we didn’t know. Some parts were pretty tough and we ended up getting back to the lodge just as it was getting pretty dark. “Well timed/ not wasting any training time” you might say, tongue-in-cheek. For Saturday I had again chosen a route from Roof 2014 Gold which I didn’t know but it was only about 80 km’s so I wasn’t worried. We had a few small maintenance issues to do – the kind that “will only take 30 minutes” but then a part gets dropped into the engine which has to be fished out etc … and off we eventually went at the crack of … 11am. Did we feel stressed as we discussed whether we should or shouldn’t change the route? No. But it’s what’s going on in your subconscious mind that’s the issue and clearly there were things going on as 3km’s into the ride I realised I hadn’t filled my fuel tank. So back I went … further delay. Less than an hour later we were up Baboons Pass and on Bridle where the ride becomes a bit slow going because of millions of small bushes with rocks hidden behind them. And that’s how it continued for the next 40 km’s. Nothing particularly tough but the kind of riding where you can’t flow and the kilometres pass at a snail’s pace. Eric was struggling big time. He is one of the toughest guys I know and he doesn’t tire easily. Granted, he hadn’t done much riding in recent months but I think the stress build-up from the morning’s events was accounting for a lot of his exhaustion.

Gary Franks Editor gary@enduroworld.co.za Kyle Erasmus Sub Editor/ Marketing Manager Bike Tester kyle@enduroworld.co.za Madeline da Silva Art Director/Designer mdsdesign@iburst.co.za Denise Forsyth Subscriptions / Admin / Event Entries, Club Membership / Back Issues info@enduroworld.co.za

Thinking we had lots of time and only 28 km’s to go, I slowed the pace and allowed Eric to rest often. At one stage he was so clapped that I insisted he actually lie down for 20 minutes. With 20 km’s to go the route became quite technical and poor Eric really lost his sense of humour. Now we were chasing time with daylight running out. We passed the last village with 10 km’s to go and 20 minutes of light left. We were descending a hectic pass called “Pied Piper” and it was impossible in the dark. With 7 km’s still to go we could not even see the route and there was no way we could ride anymore. Even if the lights on our bikes had worked, it would not have been safe to ride this pass with standard bike lights. Angry with myself for choosing this route when we had left so late and recognising the situation we were in, I suggested to Eric we say a prayer. The power of prayer is amazing – after this we started making more sensible decisions and small miracles happened, not least of which was Eric and I being able to walk over 5 km’s in hectic terrain, he being exhausted and me with dodgy feet; the cell phone light lasting just until we made it down; and the weather not being cold. The horseback ride up the pass to retrieve our bikes the next day and finding them safe is another amazing story.

The two messages here are: For those doing the Roof and for any events really, try to avoid stress build-up by being properly prepared, getting your crew trained so they take as much worry away from you as a rider as possible. Be humble enough to pray. When it’s you against the elements and what can go wrong in this wonderful sport, believe me you need the blessings. Safe Riding.

Dawn Blackstock Accounts accounts@enduroworld.co.za Lynne Franks Public Relations lynne@enduroworld.co.za Contributors Andy Hanmer, Stefan Boshoff, Chris Birch, Megan Jaffray, Hilton Hayward, Kirsten Landman Laren vd Westhuizen, Brandon Hinton Printing United Litho Directors G. Franks, L. Adam Tel: 011 792 1136 Distributed by

011 713 9185

Distribution queries: Deven Pillay 011 713 9185 www.enduroworld.co.za Disclaimer: Whilst the Editor and Publishers of Enduro World will endeavour to ensure that the information in this magazine is factual, accurate and technically correct, we cannot guarantee this nor accept responsibility for any mechanical or other damage or injury to persons or machinery resulting from information given in this publication, whether printed or implied. We reserve the right to decline publishing material not deemed suitable. Enduro World (Pty) Ltd.


Features 8

Regulars

2016 Husqvarna MX

26

12

Club Yamaha Yamaha support at the Roof

Revolutionary new models launched

Red Bull X Fighters

28

Motul Techni-talk Chain and sprocket maintenance

12

The KINI/ Red Bull Story

38

29

Pit Board News and interesting stuff

16

Setup is Everything

36

20

2015 ISDE Slovakia

54

SA Team does well at ISDE

22

2016 Beta 300RR

58

Roof Checklist Roof Prep Part 2

38

2016 KTM XC-W Testing the new Enduro models

42

Red Bull Braveman Extreme event in Namibia

44

My Story Brian Capper

48

Country Trax Adventure riding tips

Helping you get ready for Roof

32

SBS Race Section Racing news from around the world

Test

30

New Products What you need and want

Is it you or could it be your bike?

8 20

Amageza Rally Joey Evans does Malle Moto

42

48

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22 14

RICHIE VD WESTHUIZEN ON THE 2016 HUSQVARNA FC450 Kyle Erasmus


november 2015

By Gary Franks and Kyle Erasmus

Since KTM took over Husqvarna a few years ago, Husky’s have basically been KTM’s in Husaberg clothing with not much individuality. With the introduction of Husqvarna’s 2016 Motocross range however, we welcome the start of the Swedish brand’s very own personality and uniqueness. es the new bikes share much of the all new technology found in the recently launched 2016 KTM’s, but for the first time since being Austrian owned, Husqvarna’s feature new parts that were designed specifically for them and thanks to the stunning new bodywork, they look unique and have their very own identity. The range includes six models at this stage – the TC85 (in small and big wheel variants) and TC250 are not all new but feature small upgrades. The TC125, FC250, FC350 and FC450 are completely new from the ground up.

What’s new? Speaking about the 4 models mentioned above - literally everything. It would be easier to tell you what isn’t new which would be maybe the wheels. The engineers went all out to make the new bikes better in every way with a particular focus on weight reduction, centralising mass and making the bikes more competitive whilst also being more rideable. Chassis – completely redesigned for better torsional rigidity and longitudinal stiffness, the new hydro-formed, laser-cut and robot welded chromium molybdenum steel frame is lighter and more compact to offer better handling and feel. Because Husqvarna is so determined to build on its proud motocross heritage, they have gone the extra mile and built a unique 3-piece carbon fibre subframe which is 1kg lighter than the previous one. The cast aluminium swingarm, rear shock, linkage geometry, fork settings/ internals and CNC machined triple clamps are also new, lighter and all offer handling improvements.

8 HUSQVARNA

Engines – the completely new engines have been improved in every way and each new part is impressive in its own right, resulting in overall results that are actually mind-blowing. Like the new 450 motor which is 23mm shorter, 23mm narrower, 9mm lower and weighs just 27,8kg’s – 1,8kg’s less than the previous motor. It also produces 63 hp, improved torque throughout the rev range and its design has enabled it to be positioned closer to the centre of gravity for improved handling and manoeuvrability. Even the gearbox is new, more compact, lighter and provides smoother, more precise shifting. Four stroke models are of course fuel injected and the new 44mm throttle body is 100 grams lighter whilst also providing more immediate throttle response thanks to the elimination of a throttle linkage. High Tech – an advanced gear sensor linked to the new Keihin engine


november 2015

By Gary Franks

Striking looks are further enhanced by the gold anodised forks

Beta’s 2016 models have started to arrive and the big news is the new electronically controlled oil injection system on the 250 and 300 RR models.

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his is something that has been done on other makes in the past but Beta’s system is state-of-the-art, controlled by the ECU (Electronic Control Unit) which provides oil needs based on engine load measured by the TPS (Throttle Position System). So there’s less smoking out the exhaust, lower oil consumption and you can now enjoy the same convenience as four stroke riders, filling your fuel tank straight from the pump without having to pre-mix – what a pleasure. Note – this is not a fuel injection system, you still have to jet this bike and the oil-injection system has nothing to do with how lean or rich the bike runs – richness/ leanness pertains to the air/ fuel mixture.

Push button seat release and great hand grip

To ensure you don’t forget to top up the 650cc two-stroke oil tank (under the seat), there’s a low oil warning light on the updated electronic odometer, as well as separate oil injection system diagnostics. A full tank of oil should be good for about 3 tanks of fuel, depending on riding style. Ignition mapping has been updated to increase performance at high revs and to refine the power and torque curve – Beta only make enduro bikes and a priority to them is the way their engines deliver power. The chassis has also been upgraded with a revised top shock mounting to improve strength and chassis feel. The new gold coloured Sachs forks feature new valving to allow better oil flow, smoother action, and more bottoming and top-out resistance. Even the air box is improved with better water drainage and new cover fasteners to better secure the cover. Smaller changes include new grips with the Beta logo embossed in and new graphics. First off, the Beta remains one of the most striking looking dirt bikes on the market and its good looks are now further enhanced by the gold anodised forks matching the shock reservoir. The unique colour is slightly more orange than Honda’s red and it definitely catches the eye. The

OLX SA BETA PRO 300RR SUPERENDURO 22 2016

650cc 2-stroke oil tank under the seat should last about 3 tanks of fuel ergonomics are slightly different to other European and Jap bikes with a fairly low seat height of 930mm and a squatter stance. A closer look over the bike reveals a quality build and components like Nissin brakes, hydraulic clutch, tapered bars, FMF exhaust as standard equipment, a seat that is removed with the push of a button, V-Force reed block, electric and kick start, clear 9,5 litre fuel tank and easy side-access air filter. The engine’s tone is crisp and carries lots of bass, notifying you of the performance in store. That performance is full of smooth low down torque that climbs quickly to a very strong mid range and healthy top


november 2015

ow that your training is in full swing and you have learnt a few things from part 1 with regards to nutrition, physical strength, understanding your weaknesses and time in the saddle. It is time for the second part of your planning to commence.

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seconds). Strive to decrease your rest times with each workout. Make your progressions small (decrease rest by 3-5 seconds per workout). Training this way will increase your endurance far more than working lighter for longer.

In part 2 we will be focussing on Mental Toughness, the importance of Sleep and preparing your Pit Crew. “It is all about conditioning your body and mind making it as strong and fit as possible”

Finish off each workout with a challenge that sucks ie: 100 pull ups, or 100 burpees. What?? Yes.. it must be an exercise you do not enjoy and there must be a lot of them to do. The psychology behind this prepares you for that last dreaded mountain you need to climb before the finish line when you are shattered.

PHYSICAL STRENGTH ACHIEVED in Part 1. MENTAL TOUGHNESS - Let’s get to work… As a Roof Rider you need to be as strong as possible for as long as possible and to accomplish this we need to focus on the following: Use Heavy Weight: If you want to get strong, you’re going to have to lift heavy (covered in part 1). Shorten Rest Periods: You need to be able to exert maximum strength when not fully recovered. You also want to train your body to recover faster. Use Volume: It is doing a large volume of work (coupled with shortened rest periods) that will give you endurance. Add heavy weight to the mix then you have strength-endurance (Goal Achieved!!)

The total duration of your training sessions can be pushed to between 1 hour 15-30 mins.

ENDURANCE TIP: No matter what (fatigue or nausea) do not stop, but grind through. This will give you confidence at Roof to dig deep and suck it up at those critical points when stopping is not an option. Next month we will go through how ‘Active Rest’ forms a crucial part of becoming the ultimate Roof machine. If you need help send queries to mandy@basefit.co.za or centurion@basefit.co.za *All definitions available on our website www.basefit.co.za Photograph by Wasabi Photo; Enduro Riders in Pic Lodewyk Janse van Rensburg and Bruce Viljoen

PLAN OF ATTACK: a) Use heavy weights that only just allow you to work in the 10-12 rep range b) Limit rest to between 10-30 seconds, never longer. c) Push through a high volume of sets e.g. 12-15 sets per exercise. When you start training this way, start with a longer rest time (30

32 ROOF OF AFRICA PART 2

THE IMPORTANCE OF SLEEP

by The Line www.theline.co.za

How sleep affects sporting performance Sportsmen and women have plenty pressures to deal with, and sleep is often one of them. The quality and amount of sleep plays a major role in


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