Scottish Biker Magazine October 2017

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October 2017

2017 SBM Survey Joao Sousa - Around the World 2017 SBM Rider Development Day

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I

t’s been a busy time at SBM since July.

•

We launched our pilot Rider Development Day in Dunfermline with Cupar Motorcycles – see how that went inside.

• We hear from Joao Suza revisiting Scotland on his around the world bike trip.

• We also give you the results of our Motorcyclists Survey – we think it’s the largest of it’s kind carried out in Scotland, find out what others have been saying…

• As well as Thunder in the Glen, The Hizzy Memorial ride, LeJog for Bikers against Bullies and more…

Once again thank you to all our advertisers, partners and contributors – without which SBM simply wouldn’t happen…

Safe riding.

Acknowledgments: June Graham Argyll & Bute Road Safety, Colin Kay North Ayrshire Road Safety, May Johnstone Project Perspectives, Daz S Urban, George McGuire, Jon Jessop, Roddy Benzies Get2Grips, Scott Tulip, Colin Cowan, Fiona Robertson – IAM, Calum Maclean and Maggie Mitchell.

Thanks also to all our advertisers, sponsors and contributors who make this publication possible.

Whilst every care has been taken in the compilation of this publication, the statements contained herein are believed to be correct at the time of publication. The publishers and promoters of this publication shall not be held liable for any inaccuracies.

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All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying or recording or in any information retrieval system without the prior written permission of INDmedia.

SURVEY RESULTS

T

he Scottish Biker Magazine 2017 Survey began in April and finished at the end of September.

The survey is going to help us define the future direction of SBM, as we now have a better idea of who we’re communicating with and what those people would like to see more of.

In that time, over 500 people have contributed, from different age groups and with various levels of experience. To the best of our knowledge it’s the largest survey of motorcyclists carried out in Scotland.

5%

41%

18%

ride less than 125cc

ride 500- 999cc

female respondents

12% Ri

de le s s t h an

h ont m 5

TRAINING 52% have never taken any form of post-test training 22% have taken an IAM test 17% attended BikeSafe workshops 15% attended Trackdays 15% had Off- road training 4% taken a RoSPA text 4% taken an ERS course 16% Trackdays 5% RoSPA 11% Other

m nnu a r e sp

24%

riding less than 5 years

But, just as importantly, the full report will find it’s way onto the desks of decision makers and influencers in Transport Scotland, Road Safety Scotland and Police Scotland.

29%

aged under 45

13%

70%

aged over 44

over 11k per annum

57%

ride between 4 – 10k per annum

48%

riding more than 20 years

% 48 SKILLS DEVELOPMENT

d roun r a ye all e rid

– biggest concerns

58% Cornering 33% Low speed riding 23% Filtering 23% Positioning 21% Braking 25% Other 55% will take or are prepared to consider more training 24% unlikely to take more training

50%

ride 1000cc +

LEADBURN BIKE NIGHT

T

he Leadburn Inn is situated at the Leadburn crossroads of the A701 & A703. We’ve been along a few times now to various events, it’s always worth a look in.

The Leadburn is run by by Fiona and Iain: “We are a very biker friendly pub, run & owned by bikers. We have a monthly bike night, “Thunder Thursday”, on the first Thursday of the month.

We are known locally for having “Proper food & Real beer”. We sell quality, fresh food and real & craft ales. However, our coffee is very good too!”

At SBM we can also tell you that The Leadburn Inn is also a great place to stay.

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Images supplied by Mortons Archive.

LEJOG THE GRAND TOUR ADRIAN RIGDEN

B

ikes Against Bullies UK was founded in June 2016 by Chris Cooper after his two youngest children ages 11 & 9 were in their schools’ own words ‘physically & verbally intimidated’ for 12 months.

“Chris came up with the initial idea of doing Land’s End to John O Groats, but it seemed too easy so I said, why don’t we do it on 50’s – Chinese 50’s.”

Never thinking that anyone would take them seriously Chris emailed the Lexmoto company.

“We were shocked. They only took about half an hour and came back to us asking us what models we wanted!”

The aim is a simple one: create awareness surrounding bullying and offer support to victims and their families. The sad truth is The Grand Tour was bullying affects over ...bullying affects over 43% of a trip to try and raise 43% of children awareness of the within the UK, with children within the UK, with effects that bullying 44% reporting being 44% reporting being bullied can have on young bullied at least once at least once a week. 74% people. Over the six a week. 74% victims report being physically victims report being physically days the two intrepid travellers (followed assaulted at some assaulted at some point.

by Adrian’s Long point. suffering wife in a support vehicle) would ride from one end of the country to the other The Grand Tour was one of those daft ideas on mopeds using only A and B (and in some that are normally thought up during a night instances unclassified) roads. Each day they down at the local pub. Thing is, Chris and would remember one young person who had Adrian (President and Vice President) live over taken the ultimate step, due to bullying, and 100 miles apart and neither of them had the committed suicide. Each year, there are over 15 benefits of alcohol when the idea was plotted. young people who take their lives.

ended up being a shield between us and about 20 articulated lorries and vans on the A66 as we climbed up some of the hills. She sat the van between them and us on the single lane roadworks, they must have been overjoyed at travelling along at 15mph in places.

Day 4 headed up the A1 at rush hour (great fun) and onto the A69 and A68, heading towards the Scottish border at Carter Bar.

Day 1: The journey left Lands’ End on the Saturday and travelled along the A30 and headed towards Bodmin and then Exeter. “It’s like a giant rollercoaster, 15mph up the hills and 51mph down the other side!” The day finished off travelling up to Weston Super Mare and Bristol.

Day 2 ran from Bristol, over the Clifton suspension bridge (bloody high!!), along the A38 (great road) to Gloucester. Stage two for the day was up to Shrewsbury “There was a road closure which meant we had a diversion. We were lucky we were told a short cut and only had an extra 10 miles to do, Jackie in the van had got split up from us and ended up doing the official detour which added 60 miles onto her day!!”. The day finished in Warrington.

Day 3 was the only wet day on the whole tour.

Leaving Warrington, the route went through Lancaster and onto Kirkby Lonsdale and Barnard Castle via the A66, Then Durham and ended in Chester–Le-Street.

“We were soaked, absolutely drenched. Jackie

“Little did we know that there are very few petrol stations on that route. We got to what we thought was a petrol station, only to find it totally desolate and empty. We had to send Jackie ahead to Jedburgh to get fuel. We managed to make the border – Just” From Carter Bar, the journey led to Jedburgh and then onto The Leadburn Inn. “Ian was fantastic and along with Reg, our Lothians Rep, got a group together to ride into the Leadburn and then onto our destination for the night” The final stop that night was Allanton, where the local girls brigade had laid on a BBQ for the travellers and the people who had ridden from the Leadburn.

Day 5 set off and started with the first stop of the day at Wishaw General to thank the ward staff for getting Adrian fit enough in time (he had been in hospital for 8 days only 2 weeks before). Then on to Stirling where they stopped at Cameron Bike Training (fantastic supporters of BAB) for rolls and bacon and an impromptu interview with STV. Then the day went pear shaped. Half of the people who were following got split from the group, heading up to Pitlochry, this included the van. The two scooters finally caught up with the van in Pitlochry some two hours after it had arrived. At this point the decision was made not to continue up the A9. Instead a back road seemed a safer option.

“Don’t worry, we were told, it will only add 5 miles onto your journey . . .. it added 42 bl**dy miles and took us up over some of the steepest roads in the UK!” The final stage of the day was Pitlochry to inverness – via Braemar and Grantown on Spey.

The route took the van and the scooters up over the Glenshee road to the ski resort and onto the Cockbridge -Tomintoul road (20% inclines!)

“We honestly thought we were going to have to get off and walk, but they carried our fat backsides up those hills.” The final day was inverness to John o’ Groats. After the previous day, this was a nice easy ride and it was quite emotional for all involved to reach the final goal.

“We would just like to say a huge thank you to Lexmoto UK for believing in us. To all the people who rode with us on the route, you made it all the more special. The people who met us at days’ end, the people who laid on food and lodgings. www.bikesagainstbullies.co.uk

HEBRIDES

RIDER TRAINING

W

hilst on my recent visit to the Isle of Lewis, I took the opportunity to meet Calum Maclean the owner of Hebrides Rider Training (HRT) at his base at Stornoway Airport. Calum had not long returned from a track experience at Almeria.

The Isle of Lewis has a population of around 20,000 spread across 683 sq. miles. Since starting his business Calum has put over 350 islanders through their bike tests. This business is providing an invaluable service to riders both young and old on this remote island who are finding that 2 wheels can offer the mobility and independence that we on the mainland all often take for granted.

HRT have training bikes available from step through 50cc Yamaha Aerox to MT-07’s for full licence tests.

Calum is obviously good at what he does, people often say that enthusiasm is infectious – it must be because in 2015, HRT had the equal 3rd highest test pass rates in the UK, a considerable achievement in any circumstances, let alone one which is a part time business.

Calum’s son is a very successful racer in the Scottish Championships and he gave Calum the racing bug although (I’m sure he won’t mind me saying this) he’s a bit of a late comer, only getting his SACU licence in 2015 with his first race in 2016. But being honest isn’t a bad way for an instructor to emphasise at an early stage that racing is for the track – not the road. That said, some of the roads on the island aren’t made for speed!

A great guy with a real passion for what he does, it was a pleasure to meet Mr Maclean.

Calum can be contacted on: Tel: 07717 101716 www.facebook.com/hebridesrt

MOFFAT - SOUTH SCOTLAND

in the UK if not Europe!” by: SIMON WEIR

BOOK ONLINE OR GIVE US A CALL (14 en-suite rooms)

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ALSO ... OWNERS & DEVELOPERS OF THE FOLLOWING WEBSITES:

IF YOU’RE A MOTORCYCLIST

MOTORCYCLE

SCOTLAND

www.motogoloco.com

Stunning ROUTES

MAPPING SYSTEM

Places to STAY Places to EAT

Things to SEE & DO

BLOG

REAL MOTORCYCLE TERRITORY

www.motorcyclescotland.com

BIKER FRIENDLY BLOGS, NEWS & ACCOMMODATION EVENTS

Built up areas

#KnowYourLimits wYo ourL

Single Carriageway

Duel Carriageway

30

Cars and Motorcycles (Including car derived vans up to 2 tonnes maximum laden weight)

70

30 0

Motorway

70

30

60

70

70

Cars Towing Caravans (Including car derived vans and motorcycles)

30

50

60

60

Buses and Coaches (not exceeding 12m in overall length)

30

50

60

70

Goods Vehicles (not exceeding 7.5 tonnes maximum laden weight)

30

50

60

70

Goods Vehicles Exceeding 7.5 tonnes maximum laden weight)

30

40

50

60

**

*

* 60mph if articulated or towing ** A 50mph limit applies on the A9 from Perth to Inverness from October 28th 2014

All speeds stated are national speed limits in MPH (miles per hour) and apply to all roads unless signs show otherwise.

For information about safety cameras, including camera locations, visit: www.safetycameras.gov.scot

SAFETY CAMERAS SCOTLAND

THUNDER IN THE D unedin Chapter, Scotland celebrated the 21st Thunder in the GlensÂŽ rally in August.

This year saw record numbers visit the event for a super weekend of fun and entertainment.

Held over the Bank Holiday weekend at the Macdonald Aviemore Resort in Aviemore, the rally has grown from humble beginnings in 1997 to become one of the largest H.O.G. Chapter run events in Europe.

Working in partnership with sponsoring Dealership, Edinburgh Harley-Davidson, Dunedin Chapter delivered their most successful rally to date. With visitors attending from all across the UK and Ireland as well as the Channel Islands, Canada, America, Germany, Malta and South Africa the rally proved as popular as ever with Harley-Davidson enthusiasts and motorcyclists in general.

Visitors were treated to a mass bike ride of 2,000 bikes, custom bike show, local guided bike tours, H-D demo bike rides, free whisky tasting, chainsaw wood carving, charity bike rides and a wide range of entertainment throughout the weekend. Headline acts included James Toseland, Rick Parfitt Jnr and the Bay City Rollers.

There was also the opportunity to win a H-D motorcycle provided by Edinburgh H-D and a replica 1903 H-D shed that were being raffled in aid of Crohn’s Disease and the Scottish Charity Air Ambulance. If time allowed there were also over 70 trade stands to browse through.

Dates for next year are 24th-27th August 2018.

George McGuire, Rally Coordinator

GLENS® 2017

Photogra

phy by

Dez Urb

an

STEVE (HIZZY) HISLOP ANNUAL MEMORIAL RUN FROM WENDY OLIVER, THE GARAGE, DENHOLM 11 x Isle of Man TT Winner / 2 x BSB SUPERBIKE CHAMPION / 350 British Champion

T

HERE HAS BEEN A HELICOPTER CRASH IN THE BORDERS’ ...

I will never forget those words I heard while sitting in my parent’s house listening to the Border Evening News on the 30th of July 2003.

Following the tragic accident in which Steve was killed, there was an outpouring of grief and a huge sense of loss. The funeral ...and in the wake of all that had happened, the desire to keep his memory alive by commissioning two statues in his honour, so funds had to be raised!

The fundraising took many forms.... Collection and donations being but two of them!

the borders met and led a huge turnout of bikers from the North, Fife, Edinburgh and the Lothians to Denholm from where we had organised a police escort to Southdean Cemetery where all the Hislop boys are buried (Sandy the father, Garry his brother and Manx GP winner and Steven) It was heartwarming from the first run to the last that so many locals, bikers and non-bikers turned out, and still turn out, in their thousands to line the streets and applaud the cavalcade, is a real testament of how proud they were of Steve and his achievements.

At the cemetery as we gathered round Alan Duffus of Alan Duffus Motorcycles, a close the grave I took a friend of both mine and Steve’s initiated It was heartwarming from the makeshift collection (using my ‘Hizzy’ the first Steve Hislop first run to the last that so helmet as a cash box) Memorial Run in many locals, bikers and non- and on that day alone October 2003 as a bikers turned out, and still turn we raised hundreds way of both raising of pounds which was funds for the statues out, in their thousands the start of the major and letting people pay fundraising for the bronze statues .... one to be their respects. It was an emotional time and situated in his home town of Hawick and the there had been many who could not get into other in Onchan in the Isle of Man where Steve the church on the day of the funeral due to the lived along with his two sons Aaron and Conner. huge turnout for Steve who was the Borders local hero.

And so the ‘Hizzy’ run was born! This annual event continued to raise funds for the On that day Alan, along with marshals from monuments until they were completed and

each and every year to this great event and it’s causes. unveiled in 2005. On that momentous day there were over 1000 bikes on the run from Jedburgh to the unveiling in Wilton Park in Hawick, the parade that day was led by multi times British Superbike Champion John Reynolds and was a huge success.

The runs by then were well established and everyone wanted them to continue, the public still wanted to see the spectacle and to donate so I decided to continue to organise the event and it was decided that each year an appropriate charity would be chosen to receive all monies raised including among others the helicopter air ambulance for the Isle of Man races.

This year’s recipient of the unbelievable amount of close to £5000.00 raised on what was the 15th Annual Hislop Memorial Run was Motor Neuron Disease Scotland in memory of a local character and Hislop fan John Dobbie who sadly passed away earlier this year.

I must add that without the hard work of numerous helpers, volunteers as well as the police who play an important role to ensure road safety and of course the traveling marshals the memorial run could not take place .... So, my heartfelt thanks go to all of those who help and to local businesses who donate so generously

The Steve Hislop Memorial run now takes place on the Sunday of the last Bank Holiday in August so that anyone wishing to plan their trip, take part or spectate can put the date in their diary now for the 2018 event.

SBM RIDER DEVELOPMENT DAY

S

BM hosted the first Rider Development Day on Sunday, September 17th.

The idea came about after the SBM rider survey swiftly identified that there are numerous motorcyclists in Scotland who are really keen to get more advice about how to be better riders, but for whatever reason are unable to access the advice they want.

The day was planned around the Community Fire Station in Dunfermline – but, because of the raised security threat following the London bombing we had to move venues at the very last minute. Thankfully, the Scouts rescued us!

I just wanted to say how much I thoroughly enjoyed the rider development day yesterday.

I found the whole day very interesting and was exactly matched to what I was hoping to learn from the day’s activities.

Our attendees came from as far afield as Paisley, Jedburgh and Dundee, we had a great mix of experience, a wide range of bikes, but, the common factor was enthusiasm! Before they arrived, they had all been been asked what were the ‘3 key concerns’ they had around their riding – the feedback was, not surprisingly: 1) Cornering 2) Confidence 3) Reading the road After the introductions, Julia Mackenzie from Scotland Fire & Rescue gave an overview of the Biker Fife, motorcyclists first on scene course.

Then Roddy Benzies from Get 2 Grips provided an A.V. presentation in the morning that was structured around the three key points above.

Before retiring, Roddy was a former Motorcycle and Driving Instructor with Police Scotland, his

I would certainly have no hesitation in recommending this format as a way of engaging with riders and encouraging further training.

Steve

I learned so much about road position and cornering from the ride out with Scott from IAM. I was very apprehensive before heading out, but felt comfortable and at ease throughout and benefitted from the feedback I received from Scott’s observations.

As well as anyone and everyone young/new to bikes I can see it appealing to older riders who maybe aren’t used to the current days machines and passed an outdated test decades ago but haven’t had a bike for years. The guy who bought my old bike was exactly this..

I would certainly recommend this event to my fellow bikers, and wish you every success with planning future events.

Neil

Gillian

presentation was clear, presented in a commonsense manner and made to sound quite simple!

But well received.

We are planning more days like this in 2018 so watch our website for updates: After a lunch break it was out on the road www.scottishbikermagazine.co.uk for a few hours to practise what had been discussed. With assistance from IAM RoadSmart We would like to volunteers, it was two thank a number of riders with one Observer Some folks had arrived our partners for their off into the countryside extremely nervous and help and support in to find some great roads anxious, thankfully it seems making this happen. to develop cornering everyone went home more Roddy Benzies, skills & observation. relaxed, with several things to Paul Weinberger Some folks had arrived think about and ideas to get (Cupar Motorcycles & Kirkcaldy Kawasaki) extremely nervous and more out of their riding.

IAM RoadSmart, Julia anxious, thankfully it Mackenzie Biker Fife, seems everyone went Gillian Kelly Fife Road Safety, June Graham home more relaxed, with several things to think Argyll & Bute Road Safety. about and ideas to get more out of their riding.

I was very glad to have made it, as was Neil and we will recommend it to others. It was good to be in a group of bikers and hear that they had similar issues to myself. I became so used to seeing other competent bikers just whizzing past me etc and feeling more and more deflated in my abilities, trying my best to improve but not really getting anywhere and in fact getting worse.

With so many younger and older people now taking to bikes the need for tuition and support is high. Simply passing your test is not enough to keep yourself safe and alive.

Sarah

What a great day my other half, Alison, had. She arrived home tired but full of new hints, tips and abilities. Thanks to all involved, it was really worthwhile. Today I even got to wash and polish her bike, lube the chain and top the fuel up...

Ian

SWM 650

SUPER DUAL

I

t seems a long time since I first saw this bike on the MotoScotland stand at the Scottish Bike Show way back in March and I finally got the chance to take it for a ride. wizardry that we are constantly being told that we simply cannot live without and/or they don’t Now, as we all know there’s an awful amount of want something that either they can’t get on, or ‘badge snobbery’ in the world of motorcycling, are terrified to wheel out of the garage in case often, if it’s not from one of the big players they drop it! the bike will simply be no good and not fit for purpose....But, not Take the bike above everyone can afford Take the bike above - the - the Super Dual GT to (or indeed wants Super Dual GT pack, as it pack, as it stands it to) pay £10 - £16k for stands it costs £7599 (incl costs £7599 (incl vat) a motorcycle, a good - that includes the Givi number also don’t vat) - that includes the Givi luggage, fog lights and want all the electronic luggage, fog lights and luggage rack!

luggage rack!

So, I hear you ask what’s wrong with it? In my humble opinion and for the money, very little indeed. The SWM has a 650cc single made by Husqvarna (the pre KTM era), the bike is built in Milan (former BMW site) it’s a liquid cooled, matched to a sweet 6 speed gearbox. The seat height is claimed to be 35 inches - (I’m 5’ 9 with a 32” inseam and

we got on fine). The tubular steel frame has Fastace forks and Sachs mono shock and was shod with Metzler tyres. Brembo brakes F&R and braided hoses. Service intervals for the 650 single are 5000kms and the bike comes with a two year warranty.

Ok, so it doesn’t have a full colour multifunction, multimedia dashboard, but it tells your speed, the time and how many miles you’ve done what more do you need? Maybe a fuel gauge - oh and also perhaps a front mudguard!

Heading out from MotoScotland HQ on the Duke of Argyll’s Estate in Inveraray, I headed up the A819 with a plan of riding the south side of Loch Awe on the B840 (past Portsonachan) then along through Ford to meet the A816 just before Kilmartin with a loop back to Inveraray via Lochgilphead. This bike is great fun, it has a responsive engine, sweet gearbox, suspension seems well suited to the ride. I’ve also ridden

the SWM 650 Enduro which had a far snappier throttle response - this bike is better for the road. The bike was ideal for the single track alongside Loch Awe - this is Clive Rumbold’s own bike and he’s put on bar risers and a screen extension - both of which work very well and suit the ride. As it’s a MotoScotland bike the mirrors, fogs and indicators were removed that takes you back with hand signals!

On the A roads, if you remember that this is a 650 single and therefore plan your road ride accordingly, the SuperDual does not feel out of its depth at all on the road - we had some snappy little overtakes and the engine revs up well..it will ‘allegedly’ reach 90 mph.

If you are looking for something different, which offers remarkable value for money - this could be it? It’s a great Adventure bike alternative.

Many thanks to my old pal Clive Rumbold at MotoScotland. www.swmmotorcycles.co.uk

PERTH BIKE NIGHT

P

erth Bike Night takes place at Noah’s Ark, Old Gallows Road, Western Edge, Perth, PH1 1QE on the last Saturday of the month from April to September and are hugely popular.

SBM were really pleased to be going along as sponsors for the July meet.

The Bike Night has just finished it’s 4th season where, motorcyclists from as far afield as Inverness in the North and the Borders in the South come together to appreciate each

other’s bikes, have a chat and something to eat but more importantly, raise funds for 6 different charities during the 6 months they operate.

Since beginning the event in 2012 Perth Bike Night have raised over £10,000 for numerous different charities The nights are entirely voluntarily run with the help of MAD Scotland (Motorcycle Association for the Disabled Scotland) who give up their free time to marshal the event Local businesses have been extremely supportive providing raffle prizes and stalls for the event.

If you’d like to find out more have a look at their Facebook Page “Perth Bike Night”.

WHAT IS MAG

T

he Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) is a volunteer led riders’ rights organisation that has been building in strength and diversity since it began in 1973.

MAG campaigns to protect and promote motorcycling and the interests and rights of all riders, from learner to advanced. We celebrate biking and the freedoms and independence it provides, through our support of parties and rallies, sport and competition, touring and travel.

MAG is the representative voice of riders in Local and National government and passionately defends all that is good about biking, mobilising riders through a local and regional branch structure. MAG is not aligned to ANY political party or ideology, our independence makes it possible for politicians and officials to work with us knowing that we do not have a party-political agenda.

MAG membership is drawn from across the whole spectrum of motorcycling. Whatever you ride MAG has something for you. MAG can, and does make a difference. We work directly with politicians and civil servants, but still employ other forms of direct action if necessary to ensure the rider’s voice is heard.

Since our humble beginnings over 40 years ago, we have matured significantly and are respected for our responsible, objective, informed contributions which enrich the political debate. Throughout this evolution MAG has remained faithful to its core principles of freedom of choice and self - determination and the mantra “Education not legislation”.

For more information contact: Steve Wykes, Regional Rep, MAG (Scotland) e: Edinburghmag@aol.com

THE DAY AFTER

SILVERSTONE

H

igh-end motorsport is often perceived as being an extremely glamourous world, especially to those looking in as spectators and fans, is that the case?

I was very fortunate to be able to meet with Rebecca Smith, Businesswoman and Team Manager of Smiths Racing BMW team at their business and racing HQ in Gloucestershire.

We met the day after the extremely wet BSB meeting at Silverstone – the day after Peter Hickman had qualified for ‘The Showdown’ the championship finale the last three meetings of the season…

It’s bad enough coping with running a family business, but juggling the needs of the business and the wide raging demands of a race team surely cannot be easy?

When do you switch off after an event?

I don’t really, Lee (Jackson) had had a bad crash and Peter (Hickman) had had his first ‘off’ of the season, so today has been a case of seeing how riders are after the adrenaline has worn off, fortunately both are ok...and then we’re off to Oulton Park on Wednesday afternoon.

How do you think the rest of the season will go?

If, we are lucky with the weather, if, it stays dry, we might be able to challenge until the very end – that’s certainly not that Pete is weak in

the wet, but it’s like a game of cards. (Only 7 riders finished the BSB race at Silverstone due to the weather).

Looking back at your year so far ‘on the roads’ and in BSB, what are your thoughts so far?

It’s been our best season to date, in terms of exposure and achievements – this has definitely been our best season so far. We won the Team award and Peter won the Rider award at the TT. Coupled with our first win in BSB and getting into the Showdown, all those things almost regardless of what happens from now, we’ve had our best season.

So, what has been the highlight?

Probably, the BSB win at Thruxton, winning a race is something that we’ve dreamed of. We had a lot of people there, friends and family – it was special, really special.

What are your thoughts on Road Racing going forward?

A major consideration is exposure for the business. Peter and I have talked extensively about Macau, he loves Macau and has won it for the last two years, but, my question to him is how many more skips will we get out by going to Macau! Peter fully understands where we’re at, but we’ve never had big sponsors, it’s not something we’ve done, because as we are, we

can run our team the way we want to do it, that may have to change – we must look at what’s good for the business and what we enjoy. We don’t do a lot of business in the IOM but, the exposure in the UK outweighs Macau.

How do you see the future for Smiths Racing?

When did you start planning 2018?

This has been a bit of a revelation for us really, we normally get to the end of the season (last season we just wanted the season to end!) but a number of factors have meant that we’ve started talking about next season already, Pete’s success is one of them, there were a lot of people knocking on Pete’s door, but he’s professional, he knows we’ve got a business to run and we have a lot of things going on, but we like the way he works – he likes the way we work so we needed to have the conversation so that Peter could say No to other people.

it’s not broken…and we haven’t had any major mechanicals or major issues.

Peter’s having a great season, what do you think has helped him take this step?

I think it’s the team, we’ve got a small settled team, whereby everyone comes because they enjoy it as well as making their living. Pete works best when things are settled, it’s the calmness and consistency of the team that helps.

It has been a great season so far for the Smiths Racing BMW team, on top of getting to the BSB Showdown, the team has also had the following successes.

It’s great that we have other riders asking to come and see us, but we must consider personality as much as ability, because we are only a small team. We need a small ego and a big heart!

Peter Hickman came second in the Pokerstars Senior TT, he also won the Joey Dunlop Championship for the best overall performances by a rider over the course of a week, having five podiums in five races.

How much of your life do you spend now on the race team?

The team also got a win at the Ulster Grand Prix where Peter Hickman won the Dundrod 150 and set a new lap record of 134.210 mph making him the fastest road racer in the world.

It was 50/50 – now it’s nearer 60/40 because I now have a great team around me, I’m handing over more and more responsibility to our fulltime guys. Jason and Darren now just get on and do what needs to be done daily.

Yes, probably, we speak with other manufacturers and we look over the fence every now and then, but, we have a really good relationship with the factory and engineers in Germany now, so, were comfortable with it – if

This could be a very interesting period for Smiths Racing, let’s hope so.

Follow them at www.smithsracing.co.uk

Photography by Jon Jessop

Will you be staying with BMW?

Rebecca Smith is a very personable lady, seemingly remarkably calm and collected, especially considering the pressures of balancing team and business – whilst at the same time enjoying the achievements to-date in 2017.

ARRAN

VISIT

V

oted one of the top seven islands in the world this year by CNN, Arran is an amazing island offering stunning scenery, fabulous food, and a warm welcome to bikers this winter.

...it really is worth talking the time to visit in the quieter months, when your bike doesn’t have to share space with as many campervans, cyclists, coaches and cars to find your own space on the road.

Whilst road surfaces on Arran are variable, it really is worth talking the time to visit in the quieter months, when your bike doesn’t have to share space with as many campervans, cyclists, coaches and cars to find your own space on the road. On occasion you can enjoy the thrill of having to compete only with deer or sheep between yourself and the open coastal road.

The Isle of Arran is also one of Scotland’s most accessible islands. From the Ayrshire Coast a 55 minute ferry crossing from Ardrossan brings you into Brodick Bay, which nestles below Goatfell, the highest peak on the island. Arran is often referred to as Scotland in Miniature; with the Highland fault line running right across from Brodick to Blackwaterfoot, the Highlands and Lowlands of the island are evident for all to see. The northern part of Arran has granite

peaks, fast flowing waters running off golden coloured hillsides, and breathtaking vistas to rival that seen worldwide. The Southern section of the island is no less spectacular with lush undulating pastures, and an amazing ride along a coastal sea cliff. The String road that divides the island is an experience in its own right – with breathtaking views and suitable stopping off points at the top of the hill and at the waterfall just shy of the top.

Things to do?

Well, what could be better than riding out to the fabulous Arran Distillery, perfectly sited in Lochranza on the bike, and then settling down in front of a log fire with a dram at the end of the day. Or you might choose to take to bike to Machrie, where you can park up and wander to the fabulous stone circles. There’s also loads of pub entertainment, with Fiddlers Music Bar offering live folk music most nights and Ormidale Hotel offering up their infamous general knowledge & pop quizzes!

Accommodation is varied from 5 star luxury to basic campsite, and a full range can be found on the www.visitarran.com website #WarmWelcomeOnArran

Give your soul a jolt with 750cc of adrenaline from the new High Output Revolution X™ engine.

STREET ROD • STARTING AT •

£6,745

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Please check before you visit! We will be moving to a shiny new store early 2018.

6 Cultins Road, Edinburgh EH11 4DG

Edinburgh Harley-Davidson®

14 West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3BG Telephone 0131 348 3200 www.edinburghharley-davidson.co.uk /EdinburghHarleyDavidson Terms & conditions apply. © H-D 2016. Harley, Harley-Davidson and the Bar and Shield logo are among the trademarks of H-D U.S.A., LLC.

GMTS TRAINING

O

n a damp September afternoon, we popped along to an Open afternoon at GMTS Training in Dundee on the invitation of Maggie Mitchell and her team.

It was a great opportunity to meet up with some of the new riders who are going through their CBT and others who popped in to ‘have a go’ on a bigger bike, not to mention the coffee and burgers on offer. It was also a chance to get the views of those new riders for our rider survey (see the separate article).

It also takes you back to just how hard it is to get your head around all the new skills needed to ride a bike – especially when you are being watched and photographed!

If you’re in Tayside look out for other events at GMTS – they’re great people. www.gmts.info

GMTS (Tayside) are the only Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA) accredited training school in Scotland. All MCIA accredited schools have undertaken a rigorous programme of business improvement and are committed to delivering standards of training and customer service that by far exceed those prescribed by the Driving and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

YOU’RE APPROACHING A LEFT HAND BEND IAN STAVERT

You’re approaching a left-hand bend, where do you position yourself?

Positioning to the centre of your carriageway can give you a better view of the road ahead...

How many times have you heard people say or seen riders ‘take the racing line” – it’s the quickest way through a corner...Well, it might be at Knockhill or Donnington where it’s one way, with no farm entrances, cyclists, horses or tractors

The more you can see, the sooner you can respond- on our public roads ‘the racing line’ is not always the quickest and it’s certainly not the safest – position yourself for a better view, without sacrificing your safety.

A warm welcome and great roads awaits you at Park House We have a family room and two double rooms each with en-suite facilities and a twin room with private bathroom.

Built in 1909, our beautiful, traditional house boasts stunning views of Loch Leven and Bishop Hill.

Kinnesswood is an ideal base for walking, cycling, fishing and of course golfing. (St Andrews the home of golf is an easy drive).

Kinnesswood to Perth - 21 miles St Andrews - 29 miles Edinburgh - 30 miles Dundee - 31 miles Crieff - 37 miles

Excellent food is available locally, with restaurants and pubs within walking distance.

BIKER

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Telephone: 01592 840237 www.parkhouse-kinnesswood.co.uk Kinnesswood Kinross-shire KY13 9HN

SURFACE DRESSING TREATMENTS Surface dressing – or applying gravel to Scotland’s roads is a contentious issue amongst many motorcyclists and motorists.

From the motorcyclists’ perspective, it’s the perceived (and actual) lack of grip after initial application and the amount of time it takes to sweep the road to make them ‘safe’. We all recognize that after the road has settled and any excess stone has been swept for flicked off the road, there’s ample grip, it’s the first few days!

So, who sorts out the signage?

Why so little advanced notice?

We asked two professionals for their opinion: “Surface Dressing treatments are a widely-used method of carriageway maintenance, throughout the industry. We treat all road users equally, the advance warning signs for the works are set out within the code of practice, for all public roads. Generally, there are signs at 300m, 200m and 100m before any site and at the start and regular intervals throughout the length of the works. This should be sufficient warning for drivers to regulate their speeds before entering the site.

Warning signs alternate with logos for slippy road or loose chip and an advisory 20mph speed limit.

We have a constant problem with drivers failing to adhere to the advice, which inconveniences other road users and risks loss of steering and brake effectiveness.

It its early life, surface dressing is a hazard that requires driving with caution, however this is greatly improved after the initial sweep within 24-26hrs of laying.

This treatment, although a minor inconvenience in its early stages, is a cost effective and efficient method of maintaining skid resistance and sealing against water ingress, of large areas of the road network”.

Callum Robertson, Roads Performance Manager, Argyll and Bute Council.

Although its use would not be appropriate everywhere, it is a useful tool in the road maintenance engineer’s toolkit. In the correct circumstances, it can provide cost effective way of refreshing a worn-out road surface. It seals the road against water ingress, protecting the asset against further degradation. It can also improve the surface texture and skid resistance of polished or worn surfaces, all of which provide long term benefits.

The potential downside, however, is the relatively short term temporary situation when the surface is very new and still

bedding in. During this relatively short period, loose chippings can sometimes be a source of concern for road users. Chip damage to cars is sometimes reported and motorcyclists feel uncomfortable and find it challenging riding on the new surface.

It is for these reasons that warning signs are displayed and that reduced speed is advised. Published specifications and guidance provide some direction on these matters, for example the RSTA Code of Practice for Surface Dressing 2014, which also considers the aftercare of the new surface.

Normal practice would include sweeping of the new surface immediately after laying but this must be repeated at appropriate intervals during its early life as loose chippings tend to gather in the more lightly trafficked areas of the road during the bedding in period. Initial compaction inevitably occurs within the wheel track zone of four wheeled vehicles meaning that areas typically frequented by two wheelers might be more likely to contain loose chippings for a longer period until the bedding in process is completed.

Amy Phillips, Road Safety Manager, Trunk Road and Bus Operations, Transport Scotland

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SLO-MO IN NORTH AYRSHIRE IAN STAVERT

M

anouevering in confined spaces is more difficult on a bike than travelling along the road.

Learning skills at slow speed can be of great benefit to riders in all aspects of riding. With that thought in mind a plan was developed between North Ayrshire Road Safety, Scottish Biker, RoSPA and Police Scotland.

The first date was on 25th June, and the second due to popular demand was on 27th August. In total 52 riders went through their paces. The venue was North Ayrshire Council’s corporate training centre at Greenwood, which has three separate carparks to set up all the exercises.

The days were bright and sunny but with an occasional gusty wind and the threat of showers, which, fortunately, didn’t come.

The various courses were laid out to test the rider’s skills in a number of ways. These being walking speed straight line, slalom through cones, zig-zagging, “strip the willow” pattern, emergency brake test, right and left hand decreasing circles and negotiating a narrow coned path.

All of these, in various ways, were designed to improve the riders handling and understanding of their bike in a number of situations which often occur in regular riding.

“this may sound a doddle however my brain is screaming at me “what that’s crazy we will fall over” it just seems so wrong to have your throttle and brake tucked round to the point of almost touching your knee in a slow speed without ending up in a heap on the ground, exercise accomplished though”.

There was a great range of attendees and their bikes were of such a variety. Young and ‘not so young’, 250cc bikes through to 1600, sports bikes, cruisers to tourers and a significant number of female riders, some of whom were putting their male counterparts to shame. Some took more than two hours to get there.

We are grateful to the support from RoSPA, Jim and his team, Police Scotland, Sgt. Thornton and PC. Mochan, the staff at Greenwood CC and kitchens who provided the food and drink to keep trainers and students going. Thanks go also to all the riders who took part.

Everyone agreed that they have achieved something over the days training. If this information transfers to the road then it can only improve the safety of riders. We hope to run more courses in 2018, so look out for the publicity.

Colin T Kay

The trainers from RoSPA under the guidance of Jim McCulloch enabled everyone to go to places they had not been before, as Gail one of the students says

NAC Road Safety Education

SPORTSTER TRADE IN OFFER There has never been a better time to buy a New Harley-Davidson® Motorcycle.

Buying a Harley-Davidson® has always been about feeling. It’s a hard thing to describe but if you can remember the first time you took off peddaling down your street on your bike then you’ve got it!

Two of the best loved models in the range currently have a fantastic trade-in offer available for a limited time only.

With every new Iron 883™, starting at just £7,995 and Superlow from only £8,145 purchased we’ll give you an extra £500 on your trade-in bike.

Or if that’s not what you were looking for you can always take up our other option and get £750 to spend on parts, accessories and Motorclothes for you and your new bike! That means you can tailor your bike to suit you perfectly! Ramp up the performance of your bike or get yourself kitted out in the latest Harley-Davidson Riding Gear, the choice is yours.

This is a limited time only offer so contact us today on 0131 622 6460.

Please check before you visit! We will be moving to a shiny new store early 2018.

6 Cultins Road, Edinburgh EH11 4DG

Edinburgh Harley-Davidson®

14 West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3BG Telephone 0131 348 3200 www.edinburghharley-davidson.co.uk /EdinburghHarleyDavidson Terms & conditions apply. © H-D 2016. Harley, Harley-Davidson and the Bar and Shield logo are among the trademarks of H-D U.S.A., LLC.

A BRAND NEW WAY OF BIKING

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USED BIKES

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PIT LANE, 8 MOSSLAND DRIVE HILLINGTON PARK, GLASGOW, G52 4FA 0333 240 5888 WWW.WESTCOASTMOTO.COM

SCOTLAND’S ONLY DAINESE PRO STORE WINTER COLLECTION NOW IN STORE 0141 406 3417 dainese@ducatiglasgow.co.uk www.ducatiglasgow.co.uk DAINESE GLASGOW WITHIN DUCATI GLASGOW PIT LANE, 6 MOSSLAND DRIVE HILLINGTON PARK, GLASGOW G52 4FA

At Dainese Glasgow, we have on display the latest technical motorcycle clothing including: one and two piece leather suits crafted from the finest Italian leather, textile and Goretex clothing, a full range of armoured pieces, gloves and boots with plenty of male and female sizes in stock.

We also have an extensive range of AGV helmets including the Rossi range, and have the latest D/Air intelligent clothing for you to stay safe both on track and on the road.

SHOP ONLINE AT WWW.DUCATIGLASGOW.CO.UK IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS. EXPRESS DELIVERY AND GIFT VOUCHERS ALSO AVAILABLE.

Now serving our very own blend of delicately-roasted, rich coffee, perfect accompaniment to a hot toasted panini and freshly baked cake or tray bake.

WITHIN DUCATI AND TRIUMPH GLASGOW PIT LANE, 6 MOSSLAND DRIVE, HILLINGTON PARK, GLASGOW, G52 4FA

WINTER SERVICING OFFERS

We like to make sure our customers always get the best deal from Ducati Glasgow, so every year we run a Winter Servicing Offer which could save you time and money.

Between November and February there will be discounted rates on servicing and you will still receive the same great quality and care. Why not take advantage of these discounted labour rates to have your Ducati Performance accessories fitted off season?

Winter is the perfect time to get your bike serviced, and just to ensure it’s in peak condition for you again in the Spring, we can also perform a ‘Pre Season Check’ which lets us test all the essential components before you head out on the road again.

Ducati Servicing in Edinburgh Already well-established, Ducati Service Centre in Edinburgh provides high standard Ducati Servicing to the East Coast of Scotland.

Ian and his team have a combined experience of over 40 years working on Ducati models, so if you are in the East Coast, ensure your motorcycle is cared for by Ian Murray Motorcycles.

Courtesy Bikes Available We know that there’s no better way to enjoy your service experience than by staying on the road with one of our brand new models.

There is a small selection of courtesy bikes available and the models change frequently, so take advantage of your service time by booking your courtesy bike in advance.

Pick-up and Delivery Service You can have your bike collected from your home or office and returned to you for free within a 40 mile radius, and out-with for just £1 per mile each way*.

Our Dealer Support Vehicle can collect and deliver up to three bikes at a time, and our Drivers are fully trained in manual handling and securing any make and model of motorcycle.

To find out more, enquire or book your discounted service, speak to our Service Team on 0141 333 0996 *Terms and conditions apply 6 Mossland Drive, Hillington Park, Glasgow G52 4FA

Tel: Parts and Service: Web and Online Shop: Email:

0141 333 3 998 0141 333 0 996 www.ducatiglasgow.co.uk info@ducatiglasgow.co.uk

Brenda Mitchell, founder and Senior Partner at Motorcycle Law Scotland, discusses Loss of Control Road surface defects are responsible for many instances of loss of control. Loose chippings and diesel spills are particularly hazardous. However, there are many other road surface defects that are hazardous to motorcyclists. The duty to maintain and inspect our roads lies with Local Authorities but the Trunk Road network is the responsibility of The Scottish Ministers (Transport Scotland). If you lose control and are injured as a result of a road surface defect, you should seek legal advice.

At Motorcycle Law Scotland, we have represented many unfortunate motorcyclists who have lost control through no fault of their own. Cases against Roads Authorities are not straightforward and legal expertise and experience are paramount if an action is to succeed.

Sur

‘Fatt This surfa appl Fatti chip nigh

Diesel spill A diesel spill arises from a negligent act and you can pursue a claim for injury under the Motor Insurers Bureau (MIB) - Untraced Drivers Scheme.

Certain criteria apply and an application will not be considered unless the spill is reported to the Police within 14 days. The spill must be significant and usually the MIB would expect some form of cleaning operation to have taken place. Photographs of the spill should be taken at the time.

Loose surpl type

Crack Joint Sealing / Over-banding Over-banding is a term used to describe the solution for repairing cracks and fretted joints in asphalt and concrete roads. A strip of anti-skid coating needs to be applied to the crack to seal the joint. It is not permitted on trunk roads and its use on other roads is discouraged. The New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 Specification of Openings in Roads Third Edition (Scotland) January 2015 advises that any over-banding must meet the following requirements: • A minimum skid resistance value or Pendulum Test Value of 55.

• Not to exceed 3mm in thickness and not to be more than 40mm wide.

• Not to be used as a substitute for sealing the edges of any patched areas of carriageway.

If too much coating is applied, it can result in the widening of the area of over-banding.

If it is not of adequate skid resistance, it will constitute a hazard.

The a insta

Moto opini entire requi

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Potholes Many local authorities and highway authorities have what are called ‘intervention’ standards. These standards are used in determining whether a potential defect is one that should be repaired. The average intervention depth is 40mm deep but some can be 50mm and even up to 100mm. Therefore, in some local authority areas, a pothole 40mm deep would require repair, whereas in others it may have to be a greater depth before the authority will treat it as, what is referred to as, an ‘actionable defect’. Local Authorities will often place defects into categories to determine when they should be repaired depending on the perceived hazard to the road user.

Surface Dressing Defects ‘Fatting up’ of the carriageway This is a description used when the road has little or no texture left. When surface dressing a carriageway, the correct amount of bitumen must be applied to the road surface followed by the correct number of chippings.

Fatting up arises when there is too much bitumen and not enough chippings on the surface leaving a smooth surface offering less grip; a nightmare for motorcyclists.

Loose chippings This is a common problem for motorcyclists and particularly dangerous when encountered on a bend or when warning signs are removed and it’s clear the road hasn’t been adequately swept. The Code of Practice states :- "No road which has been surface dressed, should be reopened to traffic traveling at normal speeds limited only by national or local speed limits until it has been swept."

Loose chipping signs with 20 mph advisory sub-plates should remain in place and be maintained until all surplus chippings have been removed from the surface. The time period will depend largely on the dressing type and traffic volume. Regular inspections/sweeps should be carried out as follows:• 1st Sweep within 24 hours of installation • 2nd Sweep within 3 days of installation • 3rd Sweep within 10 days of installation The aftercare signage should be maintained until a “final” inspection had been carried out within 30 days of installation. At this point, the Highway/Road Authority resumes responsibility for the site.

Motorcyclists rely on the integrity of the road surface more than any other powered vehicle road user and, in my opinion, Local Authorities need to educate roads inspectors in relation to motorcycle dynamics and control. My entire team is regularly trained by one of the UK’s leading consultants in road design so that we have the requisite knowledge and legal expertise to succeed in these often very difficult cases.

Brenda Mitchell, Lawyer & Motorcyclist

www.motorcyclelawscotland.co.uk

BE PREPARED #FORTHERIDE2018 2 0 1 8 MODEL LAUNCH

Join Triumph Glasgow in welcoming the 2018 iconic new models into the Triumph family and share an annual advancement in Triumph history.

The purposefully beautiful and genuinely capable 2018 models will be available in store soon. Be one of the first to see them, sit on them and book a session to ride them. Perfectly aligned with today’s desire for authenticity.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to own the ride of your dreams, subscribe online at www.triumphglasgow.co.uk for an invitation to our launch event where you can order your 2018 model in advance.

For festive gifts your friends and family will appreciate, visit our online shop open 24/7 with express delivery available.

Perfect for hassle free, Christmas shopping. www.triumphglasgow.co.uk Gift vouchers also available.

Pit Lane, 6 Mossland Drive, Hillington Park, Glasgow, G52 4FA

Sales: 0141 406 3414 Parts and Service: 0141 406 3415 info@triumphglasgow.co.uk www.triumphglasgow.co.uk

Find us on Facebook www.annandalearmshotel.co.uk +44 (0)1683 220013

Moffat's Town Centre Hotel

High Street Moffat Scotland DG10 9HF

BED & BREAKFAST RATES

Bed, Breakfast & Dinner Rates Clubs & Groups Weekend Breaks

Just 1 mile from the M74A motorway, The Annandale Arms Hotel is situated in the very centre of the motorcycling friendly town of Moffat. Discover a smart privately-owned hotel that offers a level of comfort and service that is hard to equal. With 19 en-suite rooms we regularly cater for large groups of Motorcyclist from all over Europe.

Originally built to serve the stage coaches the hotel still offers a warm welcome to travellers and visitors alike.

Off road parking in our enclosed courtyard caters for large groups that use the Annandale as a base to explore the breath-taking scenery and open quiet roads of the Scottish borders.

AWARD WINNING RESTAURANT • LOCALLY BREWED REAL ALES • LARGE SELECTION OF WHISKIES

Mention Scottish Biker Magazine to get your discounted rate FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE OR GIVE US A CALL +44 (0)1683 220013

SOLO ADVENTURES JOÃO SOUSA

M

y name is João Sousa and I am a Solo Adventure Rider with bike rides in more than 30 countries.

My next project, Expedition Southern Africa 360°, is scheduled for early November 2017 and consists of a solo expedition on a BMW F650GS motorcycle. I will travel across 9 African countries (Mozambique, Swaziland, Lesotho, South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi) and ride from savannahs to mountain ranges, deserts to tropical forests, from the Indian Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean.

The best years of my life were definitely between 1996 and 2001 in Scotland. I was a young lad from Portugal who went to Scotland to study at the University of Aberdeen. At the beginning, it was very difficult to leave my life in Portugal behind and move to a completely different country. Coming from the Mediterranean South, it was also not easy to cope with the cold and the wind of the

Granite City, from the long summer days to the short dark winter days, but fortunately, like a chameleon, I can quickly adapt to any environment.

My first motorbike ride was also in Scotland.

In 1996, I started riding a Piaggio Vespa model Cosa 125cc and in 1998 I upgraded to a Honda CB250cc Super Dream. Yes, I rode it every day in the cold, the snow, the wind and rain.

Just like the Frank Sinatra song - New York, if you can make it in Aberdeen you can make it anywhere!

During those years, I went on field trips around Scotland, exploring the countryside of such a beautiful country.

I began to miss those days and decided to embark on a comeback tour. I grabbed my Time Machine, the BMW GS Twin 800cc, and started from Porto, Portugal and travelled up

through Spain, crossing the Pyrenees mountain range, across the west of France up to Calais.

I took the Euro tunnel to Folkestone and then to London where I stayed a couple of days.

I then made my way to Scotland where I visited a friend in Edinburgh and I was lucky to see Edinburgh Festival fireworks concert at the Castle with the spectacular waterfall of fireworks which cascaded over the castle walls.

It was a magical night and after 16 years I felt like I had finally found my way home.

I continued the trip up the East coast of Scotland straight to Aberdeen for a really intense and emotional day. I rode every street of Aberdeen just to remember all the places.

It was a great feeling but I had to keep on moving. I followed the coast to Inverness, then up to Wick and to John O´Groats where the Land Ends, riding alongside the sun setting over the North Sea - it was spectacular. The next morning, I arrived at Gyll´s Bay and caught the Pentalina Ferry to St. Margaret´s Hope in Orkney Islands where I travelled round the island visiting Skara Brae, Bay of Birsay, the standing stones, the Maeshowe Chambered Cairn at Brough of Birsay, the Orkney Brewery and had the opportunity to visit some old friends at Kirkwall.

On returning to the mainland I travelled through Sutherland County and started the beautiful west coast. The stunning beach of Bettyhill, Lochan Leacach, Skerray, Lochan Sleiteil, Skullomie Bay, Tongue, Loch Hope, Loch Eriboll, Loch Borralie, Durness Beach, Scourie, Unapool, Ardvreck Castle, Loch Assynt, Knockan Crag coastline, Beinn Eighe to Skye & Lochalsh, and reached the waterfalls at Isle of Skye. Ended up camping at Sligachan where the strong winds broke my tent and what a crazy night it was. I woke up the next morning with everything wet, the cold tent on my face and midges flying around inside, what a nightmare! Had a large brunch that day to give me strength to continue the trip.

That day I passed on by Eilean Donan Castle, Dornie, South Loch Ness and Fort Augustus back to Edinburgh. I have ridden through 30 countries already but crossing Scotland by motorbike was always on my dreams and what an amazing ride it was. This expedition will always be in my memory.

João Sousa rider@joaoaroundtheworld.com www.joaoaroundtheworld.com Never give up | Follow your dreams

BMW Motorrad

2017 MODEL

BMW R1200GS RALLYE SPORT

WITH PREMIUM PACK AND COMPLIMENTARY VARIO PANNIERS, TOP CASE AND NAV 5.

BMW Select Representative example Term of agreement

47 monthly payments

On the road cash price*

Customer deposit

Amount of credit

Option to purchase fee^

48 months

£199.00

£16,270.00

£1,756.56

£14,513.44

£1.00

Optional final payment^

Total payable

Rate of interest

APR Annual Representative mileage

Excess mileage charge

£7,749.45

£18,860.01

5.9% fixed

5.9%

9.06p

4,000

To find out more on the BMW R1200GS range or to book a test ride†, please contact us or visit our showroom.

Douglas Park Motorrad 13 Braeview Place, East Kilbride G74 3XH Tel: 01355 818211 douglasparkmotorrad.co.uk

MAKE LIFE A RIDE.

Park’s of Hamilton (Holdings) Ltd is a credit broker and not a lender.

Finance example is for a BMW Select agreement for a BMW R1200GS Rallye Sport including Premium Pack, Vario Panniers, Top Case and Nav 5, with a contract mileage of 16,000 miles and excess mileage charge of 9.06p per mile. Applies for new vehicles ordered between 1 October 2017 and 31 December 2017 and registered by 31 March 2018 (subject to availability). Retail customers only. *On the road cash price is based on manufacturer’s recommended retail price and includes 3 year BMW Retailer Warranty, BMW Emergency Service, 12 months’ road fund licence, vehicle first registration fee, delivery, number plates and VAT. If you select a Personal Contract Purchase agreement you have the option at the end of the agreement to: (1) return the vehicle and not pay the Final Payment. (2) pay the Final Payment to own the vehicle or (3) part exchange the vehicle. You will not own the vehicle until all payments have been made. ^Optional final payment and option to purchase fee not payable if you opt to return the vehicle at the end of the agreement (vehicle condition, excess mileage and other charges may be payable). Finance available subject to credit acceptance to UK residents aged 18 or over. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Terms and conditions apply. Offer may be varied, withdrawn or extended at any time. ‘BMW Select’ is a form of hire-purchase agreement provided by BMW Financial Services (GB) Limited, Summit ONE, Summit Avenue, Farnborough, Hampshire GU14 0FB. You will have a 14 day statutory right to withdraw from the agreement. Douglas Park Limited is an Appointed Representative of Park’s of Hamilton (Holdings) Limited FRN 308476, of 14 Bothwell Road, Hamilton ML3 0AY, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, as a Credit Broker. We can introduce you to a limited number of lenders including BMW Financial Services (GB) Limited to assist with your purchase, who may remunerate us for introducing you to them. †Test ride subject to applicant status and availability.

SALES: 0141 883 6773

SERVICE: 0141 882 1528

TRAINING: 0141 883 6061

So you want to be a biker! Brilliant!

Saltire Motorcycles is there to help you every step of the way.

learning. Compulsory Basic Training courses are run all year around, despite Scotland’s unpredictable weather!

The Saltire Rider Training department can At Saltire, motorcycle training is tailored to offer you the training you need, whether suit individual needs, which they feel is crucial you are starting at the very beginning with at the early stage of the CBT. The instructors a taster session, or coming back to biking look to develop and expand each student’s after a wee break and need some guidance! skills to make them safer riders. They are very Saltire Motorcycles is spread over a vast friendly and approachable, and will help you building which also holds a comprehensive with anything you may be having issues with. range of motorcycle riding gear, to suit all Your CBT is usually a full day course needs and tastes, as well as a wide range of however if required, you may be invited back bikes, obviously! It also incorporates a café, in for another half day or so, to ensure you with fresh homemade food, are ready to hit the road pool tables and a tattoo “I am glad I stumbled safely alone. A CBT is not a studio, so it’s a great place test but a training day. Your across Saltire to do day is split in to 5 elements. to hang out with your biker friends! my bike training, all Element A is talking about The rider training school kit and why we wear the staff are friendly safety has an outstanding record the kit we do. Element B and pride themselves on and professional but is an introduction to the their results. The staff In this element your also make you feel bike. are friendly, patient and instructor will show you the welcome” genuinely want you to get basics you will need to know a bike licence, so that you James about how to look after can enjoy the experience your motorcycle. Element of motorcycling too. The Training School C is when you get on the bike and start to has a unique advantage of having an ride. You will do some circuits, figures of 8, indoor training yard, which enables a more emergency stops and some junction work. comfortable and enjoyable experience whilst You will then step back in to the classroom

Saltire Motorcycles and Alba Customs - Proud winner of MCN Dealer of the Year 2016

for element D. This is the practical on-road training to ensure that you have sufficient knowledge to head out onto the public highway. If your instructor is happy that you are ready for the road, you will then head out for your compulsory 2 hour road ride.

This will include junctions, roundabouts, general road riding, as well as highlighting where and when to do correct observations.

Our instructors try and ensure you get a bit of experience on different road types from 20mph roads to 60mph country roads.

Saltire instructors pride themselves in the high quality of training they provide and enjoy seeing the smiles on the student’s faces when they succeed in their dreams of riding a motorcycle. An increasing number of leaners return to Saltire to attain their full motorcycle licence.

‘James’ did his training at Saltire and says “I am glad I stumbled across Saltire to do

my bike training, all the staff are friendly and professional but also make you feel welcome” He initially popped into the shop to for a wander round. He decided to book his CBT with us then bought his first 125cc motorcycle, which he then traded on the ‘Buy back Scheme’ to get his Suzuki GSR 750. Due to him doing his training and buying a bike he is on first name terms with most of the staff, and feels like a member of Saltire’s biking family.

He has since introduced his brother to the world of motorcycles!

Saltire Motorcycles Ltd. 553 Gorgie Road, Edinburgh EH11 3XX Tel: 0131 478 6661 Opening Hours: Monday - Saturday: 9.00am - 5.30pm Sunday: 11.00am - 5.00pm

S

hirlaw’s was founded in 1928 with a strong ambition to become leaders in Scottish motorcycling and a firm belief based on our motto “a family run business by bikers for bikers”.

Today these roots still run strong with the 4th generation now steering the ship to even more success in the ever evolving market place.

With Scotland’s best range in motorcycle clothing, safety wear, parts & accessories backed up by our knowledgeable professional staff we really do cover all bases.

We also offer a full range of servicing and MOT capabilities to cater for all makes, models and years of motorcycle. a Showrooms:

Shirlaw’s proudly stock quality brands of new and used bikes offering a selection of well over 200 between in our 2 showrooms.

Shirlaw’s Triumph / Kawasaki 92 Crown St Aberdeen, AB11 6HJ

We are main Dealers for: Triumph - Kawasaki Suzuki & Peugeot also offering a range of Rieju and Kymco Motorcycles and Mopeds - we’re sure we have something that will fit you what ever your riding style.

Shirlaw’s Suzuki 3 The Arches South College St Aberdeen, AB11 6JX www.shirlaws.com/pages/about/about-us.htm

Become one of the most skilled riders on the road With our Advanced Rider Course

Find out more: 0300 303 1134 www.iamroadsmart.com

STARTING YOUR OWN BUSINESS? FROM ALAN DUFFUS, ALAN DUFFUS MOTORCYCLES, KIRKCALDY

All you need is the passion and a really-good FRIEND!

W

hen I started out I didn’t have much, just an idea, a few Scottish Championships under my belt, a nice car, Dave Croy my race mechanic plus my great friend and ex sponsor Jim Oliver from The Garage in Denholm.

My car (an Aston Martin DB6 Superleggera) was first to go to raise cash to buy some second-hand machines, rent some premises, fit them out for sales, service and parts, so now we had a basic stock but little or no money!

It quickly became obvious that we needed a good franchise and approached Yamaha, as by that time we had been racing their machines with some success for several years.

I eventually had a visit from their Northern Representative and all round top man Stan Brown who made me an offer ... buy 6 new machines and the franchise was mine.

The only problem was that I had no money left - so that’s where the ‘friend’ bit comes in and to the rescue came Jim Oliver. I ordered the 6 machines required but he took 3 of them (they were all FS1-E 50cc machines as they were the cheapest bikes Yamaha had!) so for the cost of 3 tiddlers I was a Yamaha Official Dealer thanks

to Stan the Man with the help of my friend Jim. The rest as they say is History.

So here we are 41 years later, having over the years sold thousands of Yamaha machines ... and I can proudly say I am a Yamaha Exclusive Premier Dealer as we sell only new Yamaha’s plus of course quality used bikes of all makes, models and sizes.

When you visit our premises at 19/21 St Clair Street in Kirkcaldy you will find that our original Front Showroom now stocks a full and comprehensive range of New Yamaha Machines.

Our recently revamped second showroom now houses a great range of fully prepared used machines of all the top marque’s, a helmet department stocking everything from HJC to Schuberth, a fully stocked Clothing Showroom which includes Ladies and Gents Sections offering RST, Oxford, Wolf, Rukka as well as boots and gloves by names such as Alpinestar and Daytona to name but a few! There is now something for everyone, male and female!

The Workshop is run by our top technician

So, with a bit of luck and again because of a friend I got my beloved race bike back!

30 + years later another old pal from my racing days the legendary Mick Grant phoned and invited me to come out of retirement and take part in the South African Classic TT .... I didn’t need asked twice and my faithful old bike and I came back with the winner’s trophy! The bike is beautiful, very quick, a real cracker and well worth seeing when you visit.

The visits to South Africa are now an annual event and this 750cc 4 cylinder 2 stroke is still a star attraction.

Gavin McLean who has been with us for 25 years and while his skills with machines of all eras is phenomenal his knowledge of all things Yamaha (acquired over a quarter of a century) is a tremendous asset to us as a dealer. Gavin can also save customers time and money by his diagnostic skills as, over the years, whatever the problem, he will have seen it before! Gavin is a safe pair of hands, whether it’s a scooter, a superbike, or fettling my race bikes!

Speaking of race bikes, during your visit make sure you see my pride and joy My Yamaha TZ750 which unless it’s being raced is always on show!

It’s a work of art and iconic race machine from the seventies plus it has a great history! When I retired from racing in 1979 I regrettably sold this fantastic bike. However, after buying a company in Glenrothes in the mid-eighties, I inherited a Jaguar saloon as part of the company’s assets which I neither needed nor wanted, so I telephoned ex racer Denis Prosser whose family owned a Jaguar dealership in Glasgow and asked him if he would buy it. He said that he would, if I took a bike that had been traded in, my old TZ750!

Business wise, if you need help or advice we are here to help, for Workshop bookings/Parts / Accessories / Clothing / Helmets ask for Mike Shepherd .... For Sales, either myself or Barrie Kent. Give us a call on 01592 264135, drop me an e-mail to alan@alanduffus.com or visit our website at vvww.alanduffus.com.

Hopefully we will meet in the showroom soon for a demo ride, coffee and a chat.

Alan Duffus

ROSE LODGE Inverness

An ideal location after a long day riding and taking in the fantastic scenery and some of the best roads in Scotland, maybe riding the North Coast 500, Rose Lodge Guest House is a motorcycle friendly B&B situated 5 mins from Inverness City Centre with its wide range of Bars, Restaurants and shops.

Also, close by are theatres, cinema and cathedral.

AccommodAtion is mAde up of; • 1 x family room - en suite (1 x double plus single).

• 1 x twin - en suite • 1 x small double (separate bathroom) • 1 x single - en suite • Rose Lodge has off road parking, a drying room as well as access to a garage.

• Full Scottish breakfast between 7.15 & 8.30am

contAct: Blair Stevenson 01463 233434 6 Kenneth Street Inverness IV3 5NR

Bookings: 01463 233434

www.roselodgeguesthouse.co.uk

NEW OWNERS SINCE SUMMER 2015 • FREE WI-FI GREAT FOOD, DRINK, COFFEE & TEA • PET, FAMILY & BIKER-FRIENDLY • ALL ROOMS EN-SUITE • SUPERB FUNCTION & WEDDING VENUE • TWO SISTER PROPERTIES IN CRIANLARICH •

WARM WELCOME GUARANTEED

REDUCED RATES FOR BIKERS! MENTION “MOTO" WHEN BOOKING

T: 01499 302 466 / E: info@inveraray-inn.co.uk / W: inveraray-inn.co.uk

HYPER TRAX –

INDOOR MOTO-X!

F

ancy a bit of Moto-X but haven’t got the kit or a lot of time? Or, just fancy doing something different with your mates – or your kids?

The brain child of owner Neil Buchan a former Dakar racer, Hyper Trax in East Kilbride opened in May 2016 and is Europe’s first indoor electric bike arena.

On the site, covering 72,000 square feet, there are 3 tracks for youngsters (5+), beginners and experienced. Even if you’ve never ridden a motorcycle before it’s not a problem the e-bikes are twist and ride.

Full instruction is given and all clothing is available on site, taster sessions 1 x 10mins are available from £12.50 (kit included).

Training is available from Ross Rutherford, 7x National champion (booking essential).

There is also the Full Throttle cafĂŠ for a tasty bite to eat or a coffee.

See the website for full details Open 10am -10pm 7 days a week at Arrotshole Road, East Kilbride G74 5ET T: 01355 225718 or www.hyper-trax.com

THE BEEF TUB

BIKERS

B

eef Tub Bikers is not a club, but represents the spirit of all things motorcycling.

Based in the biker friendly town of Moffat in the Scottish borders www.beeftubbikers.com is a free website giving information of local services, places to stay and upcoming events.

Just a mile off the M74A motorway Moffat must surely be the gateway to Scotland’s open roads and amazing scenery, but that is just the start.

If you would like to advertise your club, your events or have an interesting motorcycle story you want to share then email us via our contact page.

IT’S NOT A BIKE It’s grinning ear to ear as you approach a bend.

It’s date night in the garage with the love of your life.

It’s riding 20 miles to the shops just to pick up a paper.

It’s spitting out flies on the A303.

It’s a chat about your new end can with a rider you just met.

It’s the experience that comes with spending 85 years in the saddle.

And it’s going the extra mile to ensure that whatever your passion we have you covered.

#ItsWhatWeDo

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11/09/2017 08:54