Scottish Biker Magazine March 2018

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March 2018

Rider Talent Cup 2018 Moffat – The ideal touring base

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WHAT A START TO SPRING 2018!

It’s time to put winter behind us and turn our thoughts to the sunny days, long rides and tours ahead.

You don’t have to go abroad for great roads. In this edition we’ve chosen Moffat as a southern Scotland base that’s ideal for a few days break, great riding with plenty more to offer.

We also get a Q&A with three of the young Scottish guys searching for success whilst competing in the Rider Talent Cup on the MotoGP platform.

We have an insight into Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance, a Bike Fabricator from Perth and a ‘heads up’ about the 2018 Erskine Bike Meet.

Oh, and the next SBM Rider Development Days..

Whatever you do, enjoy your riding.

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

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FRANZ VON SUPPÉ “YOU ARE CRAZY, MY CHILD, YOU MUST GO TO BERLIN.”

BY MAGGIE MITCHELL, GMTS TRAINING, DUNDEE

M

any who know me well will agree with the above, so, on 19th of August, we pack up the panniers and off we set!

The journey from home to Newcastle is fine and dry, and once on the ferry, it feels like the holiday had begun! (A couple of G & Ts help, to be fair!) We wake next morning to blue skies over Ijmuiden as we disembark in sunshine and head the 180 miles to Papenburg in Northern Germany. It is a beautiful place, with a canal running through it, and much history! Overnight there, then on to Hamburg, (another 187 dry miles).

We have a couple of nights in Hamburg, so set off to explore the city, which boasts a chocolate museum (well worth a visit if only for the many free samples!!!) and a HUGE model railway layout (also worth a visit, but more for the blokes I think!) The view from the St Nikolai Memorial steeple is fabulous, and the museum from the WW2 harrowing, to say the least.

Setting off again, we have a short “hop” north to Kiel via the beautiful town of Lubeck, where we stop for the obligatory cake and coffee! It soon becomes apparent why we are here, as we spot the familiar shape and battleship-greyness of a German U boat. The boys are excited, and spend hours in it. The ladies have a quick look, then enjoy the sunshine!!

Off again, and the 170 miles to Copenhagen were completed, mostly in sunshine with about 1 hr of bouncing rain, via numerous ferries and bridges!! We have three nights in Copenhagen to let the backsides recover, so explore the city using the bus!! Much beer and cake is consumed, all of which is excellent! The city is a mixture of old and new, and we enjoy our time here travelling by bus and boat.

From Copenhagen, south through Denmark, again with unexpected ferry crossings, to Rostock (100 miles) and on to Rugen, a beautiful island to the north-west of Germany.

32 degrees, and a beautiful beach, a microbrewery in the guest house – what more could we want? Other than cake, of course!

On the last stage of our journey now, and the 210 miles to Berlin pass easily. The roads are wet, but it never actually rains ON us. We have 3 nights in Berlin, a beautiful city with a huge amount of history. Highlights were a visit to the Olympic stadium, and the Wall. The hop-on, hop-off busses are the best way to see the city, and we make full use of them.

From Berlin we head for Osnabruck (260 miles) to break the journey back to Ijmuiden and the ferry, but a traffic jam on the Autobahn holds us up so we see very little of the town.

We do, however, manage to make it to the hotel before the heavens open, and we can watch the thunder and lightning from the comfort of our room! The next morning, our journey takes us the final 170 miles to catch the ferry back to Newcastle. We get to load really early, as the ferry is packed and we’re shoe-horned in between lorries, so we make it to the Sky Bar

while it’s sunny and warm, and can relax for the last part of our trip. A great journey, so much of interest to see, and a few more countries visited! Next year, Scandanavia!! (hopefully!)

PRIZE WINNERS

I’M DUNCAN ROWLEY AND I WAS ONE OF THE LUCKY WINNERS OF THE SBM SURVEY PRIZE.

HI, I’M LYNNE GOURLAY AND WAS PLEASANTLY SURPRISED TO FIND OUT I WAS ONE OF THE SBM WINNERS!

Currently I have the joys of owning a 2000 Yamaha R6 and I love it to bits. I’ve owned it for about 2 and a half years now and it’s been my first big bike since passing my bike test.

I passed my test February 2015 and bought my Kawasaki Er6f which I still own, although I’m hoping to trade up to something a little bigger next year.

I do love getting out and about on the bike and nothing beats heading up the A83 towards Inveraray then over the A85 for a customary stop at the Green Welly.

Since joining Clyde Valley Curvy Riders MCC (an all -female members National bike club) I have done around 22,000 miles and made many friends, been all over Scotland and parts of England. My travels have included The Lecht to Tomintoul, the beautiful Rannoch Moor to Glencoe, The Lake District and even down to York to do the i2i Motorcycle Academy weekend training course.

I have yet to spend the voucher for ‘Ride-on Motorcycles’ that I was lucky enough to win thanks to SBM, so I’m looking forward to the better weather coming around to drop in and buy some much needed biking goodies.

Another thing about myself is when I’m out and about with my R6 I usually have a GoPro recording and capture most of my rides and do a bit of vlogging so go ahead and check out www.youtube.com/c/r6monkey1 I have a selection of Vlogs, test rides, reviews and workshop how to videos on there.

Hopefully see some of you out on the road out there and most importantly ride safe and keep it shiny side up.

I have attended Biker Down courses with the Fire Brigade, been involved with charity bike runs and I am currently improving my skills doing advanced riders training with ROADAR the bike side of ROSPA. I’m looking forward to this coming year and doing the NC500 around the north of Scotland and of course spending my £100 ‘Saltire Motorcycles’ prize voucher!

SAFETY CAMERAS SCOTLAND

#SpeedCheck360 Let’s be honest, if it’s been a while since you passed your driving test, then you might not have looked at the Highway Code for some time.

We all know rule 124, “You MUST NOT exceed the maximum speed limits for the road and for your vehicle”, but what about rule 125 and 126? Jump in to our immersive 360 degree experience and let us refresh your memory and explain why checking your speed is so important.

Use the QR code to see #SpeedCheck360 or find it online at:www.safetycameras.gov.scot 2624-17 pm

Find us on: Facebook & Twitter @safetycamscot

WOULD YOU KNOW WHAT TO DO IF YOU WERE ‘FIRST ON SCENE’…?

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ne of the joys of riding a motorcycle, especially in Scotland is that it’s remarkably easy to find quiet roads and to get miles away from anywhere.

But, what if something happens? Maybe you’re out with your mates and (heaven forbid) one has an off, or you come across another incident – in the middle of nowhere…

If you can get a phone signal, it might take up to 20 mins to get the Air Ambulance to you, if not it will be longer....

Thankfully, there are folks out there who are helping us to help ourselves.

SBM attended a course recently with Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA) at Scone, presented by John Pritchard, Lead Paramedic at SCAA and ably assisted by volunteers from the Ambulance service, all giving up their free time to help out.

The course was very clear and concise – explaining what to do if you were one of the first at an accident; From ‘Securing a scene’ to what to do next, when, if and how.

Perhaps as motorcyclists we should ask ourselves, can we afford not to attend one of these events? This one cost £10 ( a donation to SCAA) – not bad to possibly save a life?

There are others who also provide this valuable information – Biker Down and Biker Fife www.scaa.org.uk www.facebook.com/Biker-DownScotland-100598230291251 www.facebook.com/fifebike

FANCY A BREAK IN THE BORDERS?

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otorcycling in Scotland is much more than just the NC500, indeed some of the best roads can be found much farther south.

The Scottish Borders along with Dumfries and Galloway boast some fantastic scenery, loads of history, fantastic roads and for the most part less tourist traffic. It’s also the home to some lovely towns and interesting places to visit.

We got in contact with our good friends Karen Brady and Andy Tunnicliffe of Beeftub Bikers to get some local insight into Moffat.

“Moffat is the kind of place where you stop and instinctively check your rear tyre confirming that you have actually ‘ridden’ the last 40 miles and not simply hit auto pilot” says Andy.

“The town itself is slightly unusual in that the high street consists of two main roads, the A701 and A708 that run parallel through the centre giving the feeling of open spaces with the added attraction of ample free parking inbetween. There is a petrol station conveniently

sited at either end of the town and numerous cafes and sandwiches shops with independent retailers along the High Street”.

For those of you on the long haul, Moffat is a great stopping off point, it’s only a mile from J15 on the and the wee town is a welcome break from motorway riding and service station food.

Moffat is the home of a varied choice of bike friendly hotels and B&Bs to fit everyone’s needs and budgets plus there is a large campsite. See the website for more information” www.visitmoffat.co.uk.

Article continued over page...

Here we have some of the locals favourite routes.

MARK WATSON (BORN & BRED) My route is short and sweet, from Moffat take the A708 towards Selkirk, very twisty and fast sections “Perfect for a sports bike”. Glen café at St Mary’s Loch is a good pit stop for bikers and has stunning views. From there head to Tweedsmuir which is a single track road with passing places. The views here are breath taking, then you reach the A701 take a left and head back to Moffat you will experience the famous “Moffat Beef Tub” which is our version of the Isle of Man TT Enjoy!

Marks mum runs the Hazel Bank B&B in Moffat and she is famous for her “Bikers Breakfast”.

JOHN WALLACE (LOCAL BUTCHER) A good route with a combination of roads, plenty of pits stop and nice finish. Leave Moffat on the A701 heading south to the A74M roundabout. Second round-about take the B7076 north towards Crawford. At the junction with the A702 turn left towards Thornhill follow the road until the you reach the junction of the A76 turn left and head for Dumfries. When you get to Dumfries take the A75 towards Carlisle as far as Annan turn left on to the B6357 go through Kirkpatrick Fleming until you reach the A7.

Turn right and head north to Selkirk. In Selkirk

pick up the A707 Moffat road until you reach the A72 to Peebles. Stay on the A72 until just after Peebles then take the B712 through Stobo to the A701 junction. Turn left and head south back to Moffat.

IAIN COCHRANE (LOCAL BUSINESSMAN) A nice run in any condition and only 100 miles. From Moffat take the A701 north to the Leadburn Inn (A regular place for biker’s meetings).Turn right on to the A703 for Peebles. In Peebles you will come to the junction of the A72 turn left and head for Selkirk. As you start to enter the outskirts of Selkirk you pick up the A708 back to Moffat.

​ALAN ROTHERY (LIVE IN THE BEEFTUB) THE DEVIL TOLD ME TO DO IT! A nice wee Sunday Run. From Moffat take the A701 north as far as the B719 turn left to the B7076 turn right and head towards Crawford.

At the junction with the A702 turn left and head down to the A76 junction turn left and head for Thornhill. Just before Thornhill turn right on to the A702 and follow the road all the way to St John’s Town of Dairy. At St John’s Town of Dairy turn left on to the A713 down to the junction of the A712 turn right to Newton Stewart (The Best Bit) you can even stop for a fry up.

From Newton Stewart head north on the A714 to Bargrennan turn right and go through the Galloway Forest to Straiton where you will find a B road. At Straiton turn right on to the B741 to Dalmellington where you might want to fuel up.

From Dalmellington head south on the A713 as far as Carsphairn and turn left on to the B729 to Moniaive and the junction of the A712 turn left to Thornhill. At the junction of the A76 turn left and head north to Mennock where you turn right and take the B797 through Wanlockhead to Leadhills. From Leadhills turn right on to

the B7040 to Elvanfoot and the junction of the A702. Turn left heading north for a short distance to the B7076 and follow the road back the way you came to Moffat.

Moffat makes an ideal base for exploring the often-overlooked borders of Scotland.

For more info and maps of the routes visit www.beeftubbikers.com

Images courtesy of Jonathan Cosens. www.jonathancosensphotography.com www.visitmoffat.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 Motorcyclists 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

JEN CHARLTON - MAKING IT AS A PRO-PHOTOGRAPHER

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rofessional photography is not an easy market to break into at the best of times, bike sport photography is even more of a niche.

A new face who is beginning to make a name for herself at the circuits and MX tracks across Scotland, is Mum of 3, Jennifer Charlton.

Recognisable by wearing pink wellies trackside, Jen is learning her trade the hard way, but, she also seems to have the eye for capturing that important image and her hard work is beginning to pay off.

To become established and accepted by the media takes hard work, but also consistency – “I invested in my first Nikon and as soon as the local MX track re-opened I was up there three times a week hooked on bike photography. The smell of the petrol, the buzz and the skill of the riders” said Jen.

“The track was closed one day so I headed up to East Fortune for the last couple of meetings of the year, I was immediately welcomed by the riders in the paddock and I knew there was something special about these people. “ “Over the year they have been largely responsible for turning a girl who was shy, nervous and full of self-doubt into someone who believes in herself and coming up from rock bottom. For that I will always be grateful and owe them a great debt.”

“As the year progressed I also did a couple of weddings and some commercial work.

The biggest surprise of all was being given a press pass to shoot Josh Taylor beating world champion Miguel Vazquez winning his WBC Silver super lightweight belt at the Royal Highland Centre and resulting in my first photos published in a magazine rather than a paper!”

Keep your eyes open for the pink wellies and more great photos.

Follow Jen on : www.facebook.com/ jennifercharltonphotography/

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

FRIENDL

Y!

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

SCOTLAND’S CHARITY AIR AMBULANCE –

THE MOTORCYCLIST’S LIFELINE

T

he Rest And Be Thankful, Argyll:

One minute Mark was enjoying a motorcycle ride through some of Scotland’s most stunning scenery – the next he was catapulted through the air, bounced along the tarmac and smashed against a crash barrier, sustaining horrific injuries.

As Mark lay broken and bleeding, traffic build up made road access impossible for emergency services.

Only an air ambulance would reach Mark in time and Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA) was to prove that lifeline.

“As a motorcyclist I now know first hand the very vital role SCAA plays in Scotland,” said Mark. “When you are seriously injured or ill in the middle of nowhere, these guys are your best hope of survival – there’s few others could reach you in time.

“I’ll always be grateful for what SCAA has done for me – they picked up the pieces after a horrendous accident and helped ensure I will enjoy a full recovery eventually. My riding days might be behind me but I’m glad my motorcycling friends have a service like SCAA to look out for them.”

Scotland’s open roads and spectacular scenery have proved a lure for motorcyclists for generations.

in Scotland in recent years (by Feb 2018). Four were airlifted from separate incidents during a three week summer period alone.

But the country roads and remote rural landscapes have also sadly been where many bikers have come to grief with *30 killed and 681 injured - 268 seriously - on Scotland’s roads in 2016 alone (* Transport Scotland).

But this charity-funded service - which has become a vital cog in the 999 emergency response machine - comes at a price.

For the past five years, Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA) has been flying expert paramedics straight to the scene of motorcycle accidents and airlifting those injured quickly to hospital.

Based at Perth Airport, SCAA is ideally placed to respond rapidly to time-critical incidents all across Scotland, saving vital minutes and sometimes hours in getting casualties to crucial care. More than half of all SCAA’s emergency call outs to road traffic collisions involve motorcyclists.

SCAA’s speed - especially when called to remote and rural areas - can literally make the difference between life and death.

And more than 110 injured motorcyclists both from the UK and abroad - have found themselves in the hands of this unique service

Every day there are communities, businesses, clubs, organisations and individuals working tirelessly to raise the £2+ million needed annually to keep the service in the air.

Scotland’s bikers have proved a fabulous fundraising ally, quickly recognising the value of SCAA to their motorcycling community. They, like many others, are helping ensure these vital funds are raised, enabling SCAA to respond where and when they are most needed.

You might need their help tomorrow - but they need your help today.

Shirlaws of Aberdeen Celebrating 90 years in business Still Scotland’s biggest and best bike shop.

Also Celebrating 1st birthday of the new Suzuki Soleus showroom With a huge range of new and used bikes along side

an extensive clothing

and accessories range. · Arch 13 · South College St · · Scotland · AB11 6JX · · suzukisales@shirlaws.com · · 01224 58 48 55 · @ShirlawsSuzukiAberdeen

·

NORTH AYRSHIRE ROAD SAFETY:

POLICE AND PARTNERS RETURN FOR THIRD SLOW MANOEUVRE DAY IN IRVINE FOR MOTORCYCLISTS On Saturday 28 April 2018, Police Scotland and partners will be holding a free event at the Greenwood Conference Centre, Dreghorn, Irvine to help motorcyclists "re-skill" after the winter and prior to the 2018 summer season.

The objective is to share best practice on safe riding, with presentations from: Roddy Benzies of Get2Grips advanced motorcycling training will present on safe riding and observations.

IAM will conduct on-road riding assessments within small groups with advanced instructors.

RoSPA will carry out slow speed manoeuvring skills training in a safe controlled environment, under the expert eye of advanced instructors.

Riders will move from one session to the next in order to apply the skills they learn.

From 9am until 5pm, on Saturday 28th of April 2018, there will be representatives from many motorcycling organisations at the event.

Those attending include; The Ayrshire Divisional Road Policing Unit, The National Motorcycle Unit of Police Scotland, NHS Scottish Emergency Rider Volunteer Service, Knockhill Racing Circuit, RoSPA, IAM Roadsmart and North Harbour Motorcycles.

If you are passionate about motorcycles, wish to gain further skills, improve your riding and keep safe, there will be plenty to see and do at the event.

To ensure you get one of the limited spaces, you can pre-register for the event which will absolutely improve your riding. Please allow approximately 3 and a half hours for the event.

There will be a morning session and an afternoon session.

Please contact Colin Kay, North Ayrshire road safety officer at roadsafety@north-ayrshire.gov.uk for more information or to register your interest.

ADVENTURE ON WHEELS

T

ucked away in the lovely Borders town of Melrose is a motorcycle training school that has seen a consistently high pass rate for both CBT and Direct Access.

– however, his claim to fame is that farthest travelled client came from China!

As well as introductory training, Adventure On Wheels also provide 1-2 -1 and 1- 2-2 training to an Advanced level, this is more of a bespoke service and package.

The school’s learner bikes include YBR125’s, Hyosung RT125D, Yamaha XJ6 (lowered) BMW 800GS, Honda NC750.

Is there a nicer part of the country to learn how to ride a bike? To find out more, contact Tom directly:

Tom Prentice owns Adventure On Wheels. He’s been a Professional Instructor and Coach in outdoor activities for 45 years and a bike training instructor for almost 20 years, and in 2017 had a 100% pass rate.

Perhaps because of where he’s based, Tom seems to have quite a mature customer base, also, 50% of his clients are female riders, which reflects their growing interest in motorcycling

www.activitiesinscotland.com info@activitiesinscotland.com Tel: +44(0)1896 822452

CURVY RIDERS by ‘Calamity’ Jayne

ACTIVITIES IN SCOTLAND In the previous piece, Tom Pritchard from ‘Activities in Scotland’, discussed training.

This is only part of the business activities. Owner Tom regularly takes escorted trips around Scotland, English Lakes, Ireland, Italy, Spain, Morocco and N.Z. and has been doing so for over 20 years.

Group sizes average 6 riders, because of the nature of the trips and the routes involved, riders must be over 24 and ride bikes with a capacity of at least 500cc.

Overseas guided destinations ‘in the planning’ for 2018 include Morocco (9 days), Spain (Smell the flowers) 8 days, with 5 days riding, Spain (Peak challenge and track day) this trip is a little more ‘focussed’. With more in the planning stage.

The ethos is simple, all good roads, no motorways, all previously recced and all designed for riding enjoyment and scenery. Let someone else do all the planning!

Want to know more? Contact Tom Pritchard: www.activitiesinscotland.com info@activitiesinscotland.com Tel:Â +44(0)1896 822452

W

e at Clyde Valley have had a busy year - I arranged for a girls only event with Tom at i2i Training - which was a huge success.

A few of us went touring to the Harz mountains in Germany. We attended the National Curvy trip in Durham (approx 100 female bikers attended). A new region from East Lothian was created and they are going strong.

This year so far the Clyde Valley region will be running the Curvy stall at the Edinburgh Motorcycle Show in April. I shall be taking 22 ladies on a Scottish tour, much more than just the NC500 - over 6 days.

I have also arranged a ladies only session at the Ron Haslam race school in August - again 20 participants (not sure how the instructors will cope with us lot!!!!đ&#x;¤Ł) We’ve also got a new “club roomâ€? for our monthly socials, we have teamed up with Hypertrax in East Kilbride and can be regularly found on track when time allows us.

In Scotland we have groups in Clyde Valley, East Lothian, West Lothian, Fife, Perth and Aberdeen. www.curvyriders.co.uk

O

n 16th April, James Moir, owner of JMCustom Bikes will be moving into a new property.

His business is growing, with incoming commissions from as far away as Ireland.

James is madly passionate about his business, when I called he had two bikes on the ramps, both works in progress. One nearly complete except for the tank spray, bespoke seat covering and finishing the fabrication of the exhaust. For the other, at a really early stage, James was giving me his ‘vision’ for the shell of a bike that sat in front of me – a thumper engine, single sided swing arm, half fairing, custom headlight, fabricating this and fabricating that….

Enthusiasm is infectious and he’s massively enthusiastic! James is also rightly proud of the builds he’s completed in the past (including his own Yamaha powered bobber - his daily ride, which is kind of loud!).

Keep your eyes open for his new premises at Breadalbane Industrial Estate, Perth where he’s also going to be developing his bike servicing business. JM Customs are also sponsoring Perth Bike Night at the end of April and planning an Open Day in early May. Busy guys.

We’ll let you have some updates as they happen..

Shirlaws of Aberdeen Celebrating 90 years in business

Still Scotland’s biggest and best bike shop.

Here at Shirlaw’s we have a huge range of new and used bikes along with extensive clothing and accessories department.

· 92 Crown St, Aberdeen, Scotland, AB11 6HJ · · Sales@shirlaws.com · 01224 58 48 55 · @shirlaws1928

shirlaws_motorcycles

· run – By bikers for bikers!· Family

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Edinburgh Edinburgh Edinburgh EH11 EH11 EH11 3XX3XX 3XX you If you don’t don’t want want tostuck be to be stuck in traffic inany traffic anyany If youIf don’t want to be in stuck traffic Tel:Tel: 0131 Tel: 0131 478 0131 478 6661 478 6661 6661 or or fancy fancy doing doing something something with those those moremore ormore fancy doing something with with those sunny sunny weekends weekends the in the summer, summer, whywhy notnot get getOpening sunny weekends in theinsummer, why not get Opening Opening Hours: Hours: Hours: on a bike? a bike?

Give a uscall! a call! on a on bike?

Give us Give a us call!

Monday Monday Monday - Saturday: - Saturday: - Saturday: 8.30am 8.30am 8.30am - 5.30pm - 5.30pm - 5.30pm

ERSKINE BIKE MEET 2018

T

he Erskine Motorbike Meet has established itself as an unmissable date in the motorbike enthusiast’s calendar for local families and supporters alike.

At the inaugural event in 2006, a handful of bikers arrived at The Erskine Home for coffee, nibbles and to spend some time with our veterans. In the 12 years since, the event has grown rapidly and now welcomes around 1000 motorbikes / trikes and scooters, and over 4000 visitors who support an event at the heart of the local community while benefits one of Scotland’s best-loved veterans’ charities.

The 2017 Erskine Motorbike Meet event was the biggest yet and raised over £12,600. The Motorbike Meet starts with a parade of two &

three wheeled vehicles through the town of Erskine, who are then led by a pipe band into the main event. The fun family day features lots of family entertainment including: fairground rides; live music; displays; shopping; street performers and much more.

The event welcomes everyone and brings the community into the veterans’ home.

The Motorbike Meet was originally initiated by volunteers in 2006, who have been the backbone of this event to this day. This team is co-ordinated and led with Erskine’s’ support

by Erskine volunteer and ambassador, Heather Clissett. Alongside Heather, the 2017 event welcomed a mini army of 44 volunteers supporting the event.

New to the event in 2017, Erskine veterans led the Motorbike parade in vintage cars which was live streamed on Social Media A team of Erskine veterans challenged a team of bikers to a competitive game of Boccia bowls, with the mighty Erskine veterans winning!! This friendly competition will return in 2018 Erskine care staff also got involved by having stalls at the Bike Meet.

Heather Clissett said: “The Erskine Motorbike Meet has grown larger than we could have ever hoped in its 12 years. We hope all who visit know how much their loyalty to, and respect for, Erskine’s’ veterans means. We are so grateful and appreciative to them for never failing to turn out and we hope they realise how much it all means to Erskine and the respect we have for all our two and three wheeled visitors.”

By holding this event within the grounds of The Erskine Home in Bishopton, it allows visitors to see the direct impact that their fundraising has on the quality of lives of our veterans and provides an insight into the person centred care that the charity provides. Holding the event on site also allows Erskine residents to actively participate and enjoy the day including:

Save the Date! The Erskine Motorbike Meet 2018 will take place on Sunday 27th May from 1pm – 5pm. Entry for bikes – £5 per bike / Entry for visitors – £2 donation If you would like to support this Erskine event there are various ways you can get involved, from sponsorship, gifts-in-kind or the donation of a prize or experience for the raffle.

To discuss further please contact Jennifer Campbell on 0141 814 4729 Jennifer.campbell@erskine.org.uk

PERTH BIKE NIGHT KAREN GRAY With Perth Bike Night fast becoming one of the biggest motorcycle events in Scotland attracting visitors from far and wide things are already in full swing as they start the 5th season and it looks set to be once again the place to be if you’re a biker and you’re free on the last Saturday of the month from April to September.

So what’s all the fuss about? Here’s how things are looking for the first part of the season.

This year already see’s all 6 nights being sponsored by local businesses, who have all generously agreed to cover the £150 cost of the venue meaning each of the 6 charities benefit completely from the funds raised.

The opener in April is set to be a bit of an exclusive with Perth’s first House of Custom, JM Customs, co-hosting and attending on the night. James Moir (owner) has recently revealed that JM Customs will be opening a brand new biker’s hub in Perth in April (date and further details to be confirmed) where they will cover all aspects of motorcycle repair

from service to engine work, tyres, brakes, fabrication, tuning and performance parts, custom design/fabrication and paint and a retail shop too!

May sees a joint venture with SCAA Biker Bash raising funds for SCAA and will be attended by Get 2 Grips Advanced Training.

An extra special raffle is being held in June.

Working in conjunction with GMTS Motorcycle Training, Dundee, it’s going to be something you will NOT want to miss! That along with Ducati Glasgow co-hosting the event with demonstrators and test rides, makes for yet another busy night.

With the addition of a Track Night at Knockhill due to the positive feedback received last year, 2018 is shaping up very nicely.

Last Saturday of the month from April to September Saturday 28th April Saturday 26th May Saturday 30th June Saturday 28th July Saturday 25th August Saturday 29th September

WHAT IS A HAZARD?

I

t’s anything that can put you or others in potential or real danger.

What would you do here?

Then, literally, quarter of a mile or so later we’re approaching the Tobermory distillery.

Be that other road users (motorists, pedestrians, cyclists, farm vehicles) or any other situations arising – roundabouts, road junctions, road surface, bends in the road and many more.

Some hazards are all to plain to see, but maybe it’s what you can’t see – around a blind bend or crest, in the rush hour, on city commutes…Observation is critical. If you’re not concentrating -you’re not looking, if you’re not looking - you’re not seeing!

Use the information you see to decide what to do next, how to handle the situation. But also what can you reasonably expect to happen?

Use the information you see to decide what to do next, how to handle the situation.

But also what can you reasonably expect to happen?

Andy’s up front, initially all looks straight forward, the black Land Rover waiting to pull out, Toyota travelling towards us (no indicators flashing)..

Then as I get closer…

The Toyota has stopped (but still not indicating), the Land Rover’s wheels are telling me that he wants to turn right – but he’s not looking at me…

Is he going to set off? Wait till I pass? What if the Toyota driver waves him out?

Just because Andy got through, both brakes are covered ready to stop!

Take the image above, we’ve just ridden off the ferry at Tobermory.

Look at potential hazards..

• Red car stopping suddenly?

• Postie getting out of his van ?

• Cat taking off?

One of the joys of riding across Bute is the fabulous landscape and scenery, roads like the A848 in this case heading towards Ardnacross are an absolute joy on a motorcycle but as with everything else we need avoid distractions.

These two photo’s were take 4 seconds apart:

Still images taken from a Drift on-bike video.

FROM COLIN COWAN, GROUP CHAIRMAN, IAM ROADSMART, GLASGOW NORTH

Y

ou have no doubt heard of IAM RoadSmart, if you are reading this magazine unfortunately all you probably know about us is that we offer advanced driver and rider courses.

Each group is run and organised by dedicated volunteers with highly trained coaches known as Observers. Yes, the advanced courses are at the heart of what we do, after all it’s what brings people to us, but we do more than just on-road training. I can’t speak for all groups, as each one will offer activities based on their membership and interests, but within the Glasgow North Group we try and offer activities and meetings that all can enjoy.

We normally have monthly meetings with guest speakers on a variety of topics. A few of our favourite activities locally include The

Experience which is the first indoor fully electric go-karts in Scotland and on a similar theme Hyper-Trax which is also Scotland’s fully electric dirt bikes, but don’t go thinking now that we are only in to electric vehicles, we have enjoyed the likes of MotoScotland and Robbie Allan’s experience too.

We have a few members who like to plan trips to remote areas of Scotland and also trips to Ireland, Spain, IoM for the TT as well as Assen for MotoGP so if you have a need for adventure we have a wealth of knowledge between us.

Like any group with bikers, we also attend good causes throughout the year including Easter egg runs, helping out with marshalling, Erskine bike meet, and more. Come along and try before you buy, if you sign up to a RideScotFree session which as the name suggests is FREE then you can get 10% off the normal fee of £149.

Chair@iamglasgow.org www.iamglasgow.org www.iamroadsmart.com/campaign-pages/ end-customer-campaigns/ride-scot-free

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As with all insurances, terms and conditions apply. **Rider Cover®: Both bikes must have comprehensive cover visit carolenash.com/rider-terms-and-conditions for full T&C’s. Carole Nash Insurance Consultants Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, firm reference no. 307243. Carole Nash is a trading style of Carole Nash Insurance Consultants Ltd, registered in England and Wales no. 2600841.

MOTO STABLE SAFE, SECURE PARKING IN EDINBURGH.

M

oto Stable, a community motorcycle garage in central Edinburgh, welcomed its first members in February this year.

The garage which is located in Abbeyhill offers its members a secure, indoor space in which to keep their bike and gear with 24/7 access.

Primarily for those who live in the city and are not lucky enough to have their own garage at home, Moto Stable also features a shared workshop space so that members can maintain and work on their bikes on site. The premises feature secure access control so that each member can gain entry at any time using their unique door code and there are CCTV cameras inside and out so that members can rest assured their bike is in a safe and dry environment.

The concept, developed by founder Callum McPherson, was driven by the high rate of bike theft and vandalism in Edinburgh and across the country.

Callum noticed the limited number of lockups available which are expensive to rent and provide minimal security and decided that there must be a community solution. Callum set about looking for a space that could be shared and bring people together.

It is hoped that in the not too distant future, Moto Stable will have outposts in other parts of Edinburgh and perhaps further afield, catering for urban bikers who want to keep their motorcycle in good condition and be surrounded by like minded souls. www.motostable.co

SCOTLAND’S FINEST NEW AND USED MOTORCYCLES SEASON OPENING: Saturday 7th April We are celebrating the start of the motorcycling season in true Italian style; with the entire 2018 Ducati model line up with test rides available, the latest Spring Summer 2018 clothing and merchandise collections in store available to try on, with new performance enhancing accessories for your bike also on display and special offers throughout the store. This is not to be missed...

DUCATI 2018 ROADSHOW: Green Welly Stop, Tyndrum, Perthshire FK20 8RY Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th April 2018 Want to demo ride a new Ducati in and around some of Scotland’s most stunning scenery?

Fancy a spin on a new Panigale V4, 959 Panigale, Monster 821 or Multistrada 1260? We will have a range of new 2018 models available for you to experience over this special Ducati Roadshow weekend. Please pre-book your demo by calling our Sales Team on 0141 333 4998.

SCRAMBLER OPEN DAY: Saturday 12th May Have you visited our Land of Joy yet? This day is dedicated to showcasing exactly what the Ducati Scrambler is capable of. Experience the Scrambler brand with a test ride on one of our 1100 or 800 models, find out how to tune and enhance your Scrambler with accessories which suit your personality and style, then take advantage of our special offers across clothing, helmets and merchandise. From this day on: Experience the Ducati Scrambler.

Pit Lane, 6 Mossland Drive, Hilllington Park, Glasgow. G52 4FA. Sales: 0141 333 4998 Parts and Service: 0141 333 0996 Web: www.ducatiglasgow.co.uk Email: info@ducatiglasgow.co.uk Tue - Fri 8.30am-5.30pm / Sat 8.30am - 5pm / Sunday 12noon-4pm

COME AND RIDE SOME

125CC SCOOTERS

D

uring a recent conversation with a well know dealership the question was asked of me – With all the congestion, access to bus lanes and parking issues, why don’t we see more scooters used in Edinburgh?

A very good question, Glasgow and Aberdeen don’t fair much better when it comes to traffic jams either..

This got us thinking, small capacity motorcycles and scooters are the largest selling sector of the market – not just in the UK, but around the world. Let’s be honest whilst it can cope with major roads, it’s not really in it’s element, it doesn’t have the same weather protection of the others.

So, we decided to try three different scooters – all from the same manufacturer Peugeot, all 125’s, 3 different styles and 3 different 125 cc engines.

Of our two Guest riders, Nick and Andy are both experienced, high mileage riders, Nick rides an FJR, Andy rides an Explorer neither has ridden a twist and go before!

The CityStar is by far and away the most comfortable of the three, a scooter that makes you feel as though you could travel distance, it was the quickest (by a very small margin) feeling just at home on dual carriageways as it did bumbling through traffic. Helped by a slightly longer wheelbase (1430mm) the CityStar gives a feeling of stability. It’s nimble, it’s comfortable with the added benefit of a small screen. The 13’’ wheels travel well with the suspension doing a good job of absorbing the bumps of urban roads.

Underseat storage is really good for a bike of this size with ample room for a full face helmet and open face helmet or other bits. It also has a glove compartment with 12v socket.

The Django, it makes you smile, we had the 2 tone Evasion, with it’s retro touches – it’s smooth, comfortable, the small fly screen works better than you’d think. It feels a touch lower than the CityStar, it’s certainly easy to plant your feet down. The blue lit digi display tells you speed, time, fuel and temperature Again, there’s generous underseat storage and a compartment to charge your phone. The Continued over page...

Django has Synchro Braking Concept, which is standard across all models in the Django 125 range. Applying the left lever activates the SBC, which distributes braking effort simultaneously between the 200 mm front disc brake and 170 mm disc at the rear, slowing the scooter without locking the wheels or diving at the front. Economy is claimed to be around 100mpg – which isn’t to be scoffed at!

Speedfight 125, it’s been around for 20 years.

Of the three it’s the most at home in traffic and the urban environment, it’s smaller, nimble, nippy and great fun. The seat height is 800mm, the wheelbase is only 1296mm and it only weighs 120kg! It’s classed as the sport model in the range.

Like the others it has under seat storage (but not as much), it has a USB charger and a 12v socket in the locker box. Let’s be honest whilst it can cope with major roads, it’s not really in it’s element, it doesn’t have the same weather protection of the others.

Our verdict: If I was travelling a daily commute across town, or to nipping around on relatively short journeys – it’s a no brainer. You also don’t feel the need to put all your bike kit on! These bikes all have their individual strengths, but there are no real weaknesses…Try one.

More about the scooters on www.scottishbikermagazine.co.uk

EXPERIENCE

THE SAFEST AND MOST STYLISH MOTORCYCLE CLOTHING At Dainese Glasgow, we have on display the latest technical motorcycle clothing available on the market today including: Racing Leather Suits / Textile Wear / Goretex Clothing / D/Air / Armour / Gloves / Boots AGV Helmets / Male and Female Sizes / Casual Clothing / Online Shop

D-air® Racing is the intelligent protective air-bag based system for motorbike riders on the track.

D-air® Street is the Dainese airbag designed for use on the road. This architecture enables rapid crash response times and effective protection throughout the dynamics of a road accident.

Custom Works means more than made to measure, giving complete freedom of choice. Fit colours and accessories can be fully customised to create your unique suits, jackets and jeans.

SCOTLAND’S ONLY DAINESE PRO STORE AWARD-WINNING STORE IN SCOTLAND FOR TECHNICAL MOTORCYCLE WEAR 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

Tue - Fri 8.30am-5.30pm Sat 8.30am - 5pm Sun 12noon-4pm

ROADSTERS

FIND YOUR NEXT RIDE AT TRIUMPH GLASGOW • • • • • •

New 2018 Models on Display Approved Used Motorcycles Test Rides Available Tri-Star Finance Offers 2018 Spring Summer Clothing Parts and Accessories

• • • • •

Online Shop MOT’s and Servicing Pick-up and Delivery Service Triumph Assist Courtesy Bikes

• Cafe

NATIONAL DEMO RIDE WEEK 17TH - 31ST MARCH / T-FEST 21ST AND 22ND APRIL

Pit Lane, 6 Mossland Drive, Hillington Park, Glasgow G52 4FA Tue - Fri 8.30am-5.30pm Sat 8.30am - 5pm Sun 12noon-4pm

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

It matters that your Solicitor is a Motorcyclist.

Understanding the insurance process...

MOTOR LEGAL EXPENSE INSURANCE (MLEI) Insurance Companies encourage policyholders to take out Motor Legal Expense Insurance. Some now even include it within the policy, whilst others list it as an add-on with associated cost. Motorcyclists often take it because they worry about legal costs. In truth, you don’t need MLEI and we’ll explain why.

LEGAL COVER FOR THIRD PARTY CLAIMS Insurance for motorcycles is compulsory. You can opt for ‘fully comprehensive’ or ‘third party’ cover. If you’re involved in a road traffic collision that was your FAULT, your Insurer will make good any claim against you and will instruct Lawyers to defend any court case raised against you at no cost to you.

NON-FAULT AND INJURY CLAIMS? You are obliged to report any collision to your insurer. If the collision is NON-FAULT, you have a choice. You can claim on your comprehensive policy or you can elect to claim against the third party. Your insurer will deal with the 'insured loss' claim to repair your damaged motorcycle or provide you with the pre-accident value in the event it’s written off.

Often, insurers instruct other organisations to process such claims and it can be confusing dealing with so many different companies. All of this is just in relation to your motorcycle, so imagine the further confusion when you’ve been injured.

THE INSURERS’ APPOINTED LAWYER If you’re injured, you will need a Lawyer to recover compensation for 'uninsured loss' and that includes your injuries, loss of income and other expenses. Often insurers will tell you they have appointed a Lawyer for you. Some law firms even write to you to say they have been appointed to represent you. So, why are insurers so keen to appoint Panel Solicitors and remove that important decision from their policyholders? What criteria do they use and what’s in it for the Insurer and Panel Solicitor? Does money exchange hands somewhere along the line? The very important matter of appointing a good lawyer to pursue a claim for uninsured loss must remain with you. It’s your choice. If you’re injured following a collision or other non-fault loss of control, why would you trust your insurer to appoint a Lawyer for you? Unlike the actor Daniel Craig, your body is not insured by your motor insurer, your MOTORCYCLE is.

YOUR OWN SPECIALIST LAWYER AT NO COST Many believe pursuing a claim for loss is an expensive business but it’s not. For over a century, Lawyers in the field of Personal Injury have operated on a speculative basis. Many will be familiar with the term ‘no win no fee’. Lawyers fund cases if there are reasonable prospects of success, so you don’t have to pay out of your own pocket. If the case is lost, you walk away with nothing to pay. Access to justice at no cost. It’s been in place long before insurers came up with so called ‘motor legal expense insurance.’

It matters that your Solicitor is a motorcyclist.

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE If you need a tradesman to do a job around your home, you will ask people you trust for their opinion and recommendation. You will ask others if they have had a good experience. Did they turn up on time? Were they skilled at their job? Did they have the requisite knowledge to do the job? Did you feel you got value for money? So, how should you appoint a Solicitor and what criteria should you look for?

Experience of Personal Injury work is high on the list.

Accepting your case on a ‘no win no fee’ basis to avoid any financial risk on your part is an imperative.

Experience and knowledge are key. Can your Lawyer speak with authority about motorcycle collisions, road surface defects, filtering, rural and urban riding? They can if they ride a motorcycle.

PANEL v SPECIALIST Motorcyclist, Graham Clark, was seriously injured in a road traffic collision that was not his fault. He was appointed a Solicitor by his Insurer but never even met him. Graham sustained multiple fractures but his Solicitor didn’t recognise that Graham also had a serious brain injury. Nine months later and feeling both let down and confused, he contacted Motorcycle Law Scotland. Transferring across was easy and that’s when the journey began. We met Graham on a number of occasions and with our experience, we were able to identify some of the best medical experts in Scotland to provide reports on his multiple injuries. Due to his brain injury which was subtle but caused confusion, Graham had to give up his work. We raised an action in Court and secured settlement to reflect his extensive losses.

Thankfully, Graham has a new life today primarily because:-

1. We knew, as Lawyers, exactly what we had to do.

2. We got to know Graham and his family. There were no claims packs. The only form we will ever ask clients to complete is a request for medical records.

IT’S YOUR CHOICE, NOT YOUR INSURERS’ There is no doubt, after a collision, it’s difficult to think straight. It’s at the point of initial contact with your insurer where the problem arises. Many motorcyclists believe their insurer is entitled to make decisions for them and the appointment of a Lawyer is just one of those decisions. It may seem like one less problem for you to deal with, but remember, you are still far more important than your damaged motorcycle. You need a Lawyer you can trust. You need a Lawyer with the requisite experience and knowledge.

MOTORCYCLE LAW SCOTLAND We are experienced Lawyers and motorcyclists. Of course, there are a number of good Personal Injury Lawyers in Scotland. Choose your Lawyer carefully and wisely. Always remember, it’s your choice, not your Insurers'. If we can encourage all injured motorcyclists not to fall into the hands of appointed panel Solicitors, we will have achieved something. If we can encourage more Personal Injury Lawyers to ride motorcycles to improve the quality of their service, then even better.

motorcyclelawscotland.co.uk 0333 555 7782

TALENT CUP INTERVIEW

T

hese three young Scottish riders have been selected from nearly 100 hopefuls to take part in the 2018 British Talent Cup.

JACK HART

The British Talent Cup is designed as the perfect stepping-stone for riders from the British Isles to get onto the world stage, providing an opportunity like no other. Races will take place at existing Dorna events - such as MotoGP™ and MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship weekends – and the riders will race on Honda Moto3™ machinery. The bike will be a Honda NSF 250R Moto3 machine.

Designed to develop British riders who would otherwise struggle to gain an opportunity to showcase their talent, the Cup will race at Dorna-run events including the UK Round of WorldSBK at Donington Park and the British GP at Silverstone.

LEWIS PATERSON

The selection program for the Cup was at the 2017 British Grand Prix at Silverstone, where prospective riders were put through their paces and the best offered the chance to race in the Cup’s inaugural 2018 season.

Best of luck guys. www.motogp.com/en/news/2017/08/23/ 2018-british-talent-cup-riders-announced/ 237652

ADON DAVIE

When did you first start riding?

JACK: I had my first go on a Mini-moto on my 7th Birthday.

LEWIS: I started riding motorbikes at the age of 6 years old.

When and where was your first competitive ride?

ADON: I started riding when I was 6.

JACK: My first competitive ride on a big bike was the day I sat my SACU license test on my Aprilia 125. It was the week after my 12th Birthday and I went on to race in the Formula 125 race at Knockhill the same day.

What was your first bike?

JACK: I was loaned a wee Polini 910 Minimoto to compete in the Scottish Mini-moto Championship before my mum and dad bought me a Polini GP6.

LEWIS: My first motorbike was a JR Suzuki 50 Motocross bike.

ADON: My first bike was a little Chinese minimoto that my Dad bought for me to play on.

We used to ride it on an old piece of disused road close to our house.

How did you get started?

JACK: I have loved bikes for as long as I can remember and saw the Mini-moto’s at the Scottish bike show when I was about 5 and was desperate to try one! At that time, you had to be 7 to be allowed to race one, so I waited until then and tried out with McIntosh Minimotos where I was given a bike to run in the Championship that year.

LEWIS: I got into motorbikes because of my Dad. He had raced bikes since 1991 and is still racing to the present day. He was the person who got me into bike racing.

ADON: My Dad took to the Scottish Motorcycle Show at Ingilston where we first met Alan McIntosh of McIntosh Minibikes. We were invited to take part in the annual Kid’s Mini Moto Competition where 10 new riders are given the chance to win a free mini moto to ride in the Scottish Mini Moto Championship. I must have impressed enough as I was given a Polini 910 to start competitively racing.

LEWIS: My first competitive race was in 2008 at Shiplaw Motocross Track in Scotland.

ADON: My first race was back in 2012 when I was 7 and was at a small outdoor Kart track called Westlands, near Gretna.

What’s your favourite circuit and why?

JACK: I love the Ricardo Torno circuit at Valencia! It’s mainly left handlers, but I just love the way it flows.

LEWIS: My favourite circuit is East Fortune because it is very fast and flowing and suits my riding style. I’ve also been going to East Fortune since I was months old.

ADON: On the mini bikes my favourite track is a large outdoor kart track called Raceland near Macmerry in East Lothian. Its fast and flowing and I always rode really well there taking numerous pole positions, fastest laps and wins.

On the Aprilia 125 I raced for part of last season my favourite track is Knockhill Reverse Direction as it seems to suit my high corner speed style.

At my first race meeting there I was only half a second off the 125-lap record which I was really pleased with.

Which rider inspires you the most?

JACK: Like most racers I love Valentino Rossi, but you can’t help but be amazed at what Marquez can do with a bike!

LEWIS: The rider that inspires me the most is Ryuichi Kiyonari. He inspires me because he is a shy rider who doesn’t say much, but does the talking on the track.

ADON: Has to be Valentino Rossi. I’ve grown up watching MotoGP since I was a baby and he’s still there now battling for championships.

What I find most impressive is the way he has changed his riding style over the years to stay at the top.

What was the Talent Cup selection process like at Silverstone?

JACK: It was a really tough day, especially as we didn’t know what to expect but I loved riding the bike and knew I just had to keep improving every session to be in with a chance. I was delighted to get through to the last group. There were some amazing riders in that group so knew I had to go all out in that final session and thankfully I did enough to make the cut.

LEWIS: The selection process at Silverstone was very nerve-racking but an enjoyable experience.

It was tough to see the upset people who had not made it through to the next stage but I had to keep my focus, so I could ride to the best of my capabilities and try to impress the scouts as much as I could.

ADON: As this was the very first time this had been done it was a huge unknown for all the riders as no-one knew what to expect. I could see on the day a lot of the riders were very nervous which actually made me less nervous in a strange way. Before each of my sessions I did my usual preparation routine which helped me focus. Once I was out on the bike all I was concentrating on was riding apex to apex and upping my pace, lap by lap, session by session.

The hardest part was waiting to see if you had made it through to the next session which was quite brutal as after each round of sessions a sheet was put up with the names of the riders who made it through so if your name wasn’t there you were out.

Thankfully my name kept coming up on the sheets, so I just carried on steadily upping my pace, right up until the last session where in the last few laps I was pushing on as hard as I could. The wait to find out the final 22 riders seemed to take forever but when my name was

read out I couldn’t believe it. In fact I still have to pinch myself to remind me that this actually happened!!

What was it like meeting the British guys from MotoGP? JACK: It was brilliant to meet the MotoGP rider and to experience the whole atmosphere of being in the paddock and all of the media attention. The whole time I was thinking “this time next year I will be racing here!” It’s still hard to believe.

LEWIS: It was very inspirational because they were like us not so long ago, so it inspires me because that could be me in the next 10 years giving the same speech to the next wave of talented youngsters. It was cool because they get to race against the best racers e.g. Rossi, Marquez and Lorenzo and you are actually speaking to them in person. You feel special that they are speaking to you, your childhood heroes.

ADON: It was great to meet the British racers at Silverstone they were very nice guys and talked away to us on how they had reached MotoGP.

Which events are you most looking forward to in 2018?

JACK: The MotoGP at Valencia as I love that track and I also love Donnington, but also really looking forward to Silverstone and Assen.

LEWIS: I’m most looking forward to Assen and Valencia because it will be interesting to experience the tracks abroad and to see the differences from Britain. Valencia will be my best to look forward to because it is the final round of MotoGP, so it could be a title decider in MotoGP and British Talent Cup! ADON: I’m looking forward to Silverstone the most as we will be there at the same time as MotoGP. I’m really looking forward to riding the track hopefully in front of a big crowd and we might get to meet more of the riders.

What are your goals for the first season?

The best bit was when Cal took us into his pit box and we got a close-up look at the RCV, he was telling us the cost of some of the parts like the forks which was just unbelievable.

Will you have to adapt your riding style?

JACK: It’s very different from the Aprilia 125 I also rode in the Scottish Championships this year and I did have to change my style between the two throughout the year. I am looking forward to not having to do that this year!

LEWIS: I have not adapted my riding style yet because I haven’t had a shot of one, but I feel I will have to change my style a bit because it’s a much smaller and lighter bike than I have ridden for the last 2 seasons.

ADON: I’ll only know if I have to do this when I ride the Moto3 bike in Valencia in March. My high corner speed style comes from riding minimoto’s for 7 years and this style has served me well so far on both the Aprilia RS 125 and the Honda CBR250 I rode on the selection day.

JACK: Like everyone else I want to win, but I also want to improve and learn more about the bike and my riding style every round.

LEWIS: My goal for the first season is to be consistent top 10 and challenge for podiums.

This will be challenging because there is lots of fast riders, but I am ready for the challenge.

ADON: The majority of the selected riders have experience on a Moto3 bike and also the tracks, whereas I haven’t, but having said that I still feel confident enough within myself to get into the top 10 in my first season, then I’ll take it from there and hopefully build on that.

How do you keep ‘bike fit’?

JACK: I’ll be out on my pit-bike and I cycle and run. My local gym have sponsored me some Personal Trainer time which is helping with my core training and I also train and play football with my local team.

LEWIS: I do boxing training and cycling. Also, I just got a gym membership so I will be working hard so I am in the best shape and ready to race for long races.

ADON: When I was riding mini bikes, I would

do basic light training like push-ups, sit-ups and planking as well as a little off road riding. Since being selected for the British Talent Cup I go to the gym 3 times a week where, at the minute, I’m cycling 45 miles and running 15 miles a week as well as light weights and resistance training. My plan is to steadily increase the amount I do at the gym to build up my strength and stamina for the 2018 season. I’m also riding a lot more off road which all helps for next season.

Where would you like to be in 2 years?

JACK: I would love to be back over in the FIM CEV Repsol Moto3. We did the European Talent Cup this year as a privateer team (me, my dad and my mum lol).

The talent out there is amazing, so it would be great to progress to that level.

Who do you want to thank for getting you where you are?

LEWIS: In 2 years I would like to be at a higher level of racing in a team with lots of support and fans enjoying watching me racing. I would like to be competing abroad at bigger, better tracks around the world.

JACK: My Dad and my Mum, John McPhee who has been mentoring me this past year, all the organisers and Marshall’s at Knockhill and Melville (especially the ones who would stop me falling over at the end of the warm up when I couldn’t reach the ground when I started on my 125!!), McIntosh Minibikes, CoolFAB, and the British Minibike Championships, and all my sponsors over the last year.

ADON: My short term goal is to progress into the Junior World Championship. If I can have a good first season in the BTC and learn the bike and the tracks, then I would hope to build on that to be challenging for podiums by the end of year 2 so I would see that as great progress towards this goal in the short term.

Who are your personal sponsors?

JACK: Constant Power Systems, Future Architectural Designs, Absolute360 LEWIS: Mum and Dad ADON: My personal sponsors are Saltire Roofing & Building Ltd, Hoy Construction Ltd, Mullens Coachworks and my Uncle Derek.

Without all these guys help and support I wouldn’t be in the position I’m in. Always looking for more help though!!!!!!!!

LEWIS: I would like to thank my Mum and Dad for helping me travel places and pay for my racing. Also, my Grandad for helping too.

Howard Cross and Craig Lindsay, my mechanics for giving me advice.

ADON: I’ve got a lot of people to thank for the journey I’ve been on for the last seven years.

Huge thanks to all my sponsors, all the friends and neighbours for coming to watch me (even in the rain!!) McIntosh Minibikes for all the engine rebuilds and spare parts over the years, Lewis Rollo, Steve Jones, Niall McKenzie, Alan McIntosh and the SACU for all their support, coaching and words of wisdom and finally to my Dad, Mum and Sister for always being there for me with their support and encouragement right from the start.

How can folks follow your progress on social media?

both my Twitter and Facebook pages.

JACK: On Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at JackHartRacing, or via my website www.jackhartracing.com LEWIS: Facebook Page - Lewis Paterson Racing Instagram - lewis_paterson11 Twitter - @lrdpat11 ADON: You can follow me on Twitter @ adondavie38 and also my Facebook page Adon Davie Racing. My website is still being built at the minute and I’ll put details of this on

F

ollowing on from our first Rider Development Day at Dunfermline last September, we are now planning another two events in 2018 one with Road Safety West of Scotland and the other with Argyll and Bute Road Safety.

These days are for those who have not taken any further training since passing their bike test.

The first will be held on Sunday 3rd June and will be kindly hosted by Ride On Motorcycles, Hillington.

Green bike background photography for article: Agusti Nubiol

The second will be held on Sunday 15th July at the Inveraray Inn, Inveraray.

The day will start at 9.00am with a group workshop session in the morning and an Onroad session in the afternoon. The cost will be £35 per person and places are strictly limited.

More information will be given nearer the time on www.scottishbikermagazine.co.uk and Facebook page.

In the mean-time if you’d like more details or want to express an interest, please email us at; hello@scottishbikermagazine.co.uk

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

T N A WE WBIKE R U O Y GET A PRICE: 0141 883 1450

WEST COAST MOTO 8 MOSSLAND DRIVE, HILLINGTON PARK GLASGOW, G52 4FA

0141 883 1450 WWW.WESTCOASTMOTO.COM

IT’S MAKING YOUR OWN ADVENTURE

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#ItsWhatWeDo Visit Bennetts.co.uk or call 0330 018 5943 for a quote *All offers subject to Terms & Conditions. Offer subject to change.