Norfolk & Suffolk Biker 2015

1st EDITION FREE

NORFOLK SUFFOLK &

BIKER

Competition Win : Gloves worth ÂŁ100 and much more!

See page 4 for details or quick scan the QR code!

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CONTENTS 2. ME & MY BIKE 3. SAFE RIDER 4. COMPETITION WIN 5. i2i MOTORCYCLE ACADEMY 6. JENNY MAKES YET MORE TWO WHEEL HISTORY 8. HUGGER'S RIDER SKILLS DOWNLOADS 10. HUGGER'S CHALLENGE 12. TWO LEGENDARY CONTINENTAL BIKING ROADS 16. SUFFOLK WHEELS 2 WORK 18. POPULAR BIKER VENUES & EVENTS IN NORFOLK & SUFFOLK 20. BMW R100 CAFÉ RACER SPECIAL 22. BACK ON TWO WHEELS! 24. DUCATI NORWICH 26. DEVITT INSURANCE 28. POLICE CENTRAL ESCORT GROUP 30. KRAZY HORSE & ROCKERS 33. CBT PLUS COURSE 34. DAVID'S STORY

Acknowledgements: Acknowledgements: Andy Micklethwaite Norfolk Road Safety, Martin Andrew Suffolk Road Safety, Sgt Andy Spall Norfolk Police, Phil Armes. Chris Ball.

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ME & MY BIKE Andy Micklethwaite When asking Andy Micklethwaite, Norfolk's Road Safety Officer for his motorcycle history he said "Nobody will be slightly interested" However, as a youth he walked to school every day past a Norton Commando and was determined to own one. He bought one in 1984 and had it for 15 years. The first copy of What Bike that he bought in 1976 had a review of the insanely expensive Moto Morini 3 1/2 (twice what an

RD350 cost) but he really wanted one. He bought one in 2001 and still owns it.

The Norton made way for a series of Hinckley Triumphs leading to his current Tiger Sport. Asked why he has only owned 9 bikes since 1976 he said “For 18 years, I spent all day on a police bike. Trust me, the novelty wears off” He had 4 police bikes, 3 BMW & 1 Honda. His current works bike is a Ducati Multistrada 1200.

Martin Andrew Hi I’m Martin Andrew, Road Safety Officer for almost 29 years and motorcyclist for much longer. Amongst other things, I’m responsible for the Suffolk part of the Hugger Campaign, including running Hugger’s Challenge.

I was virtually forced into motorcycling by my father (who still rides) at the age of 17. He presented me with a Honda CB125S (RBE 692M where are you?) for getting to college.

I was 25 before I owned my first car, and I can honestly say, that since I was 17, there

has never been a time when I’ve not had a bike.

(When marriage and mortgages came calling, I did drop down to a 125cc Suzuki scooter). For over 12 years I was a BMW boxer fan, first a R850R and more latterly a R1200RT. However, last year I decided to return to the Honda fold and bought a NC750X, with dual clutch automatic/semi-automatic gears. And I love it, for me, I get the best of both worlds, comfort on long tours, where I can spend some of the concentration that was spent on gear changing, on other things, like the scenery. But if I want to get a move on, I can chose to change my own gears, albeit with my fingers, rather than my foot!

Claire Barber It was a case of ‘well if you can I can’ with me getting into biking. My Mum had done her CBT and had a rather awesome (at the time) TZR125. I took my CBT on a bitterly cold day in February 1992 on a Honda City Express. I got my certificate, eventually in the snow, daring to go up to 25mph on the road ride!

My first ‘proper’ bike was an RXS100 which I passed my test on and lovingly cleaned with furniture polish every weekend. The first ‘big’ bike was a Honda VT500e in red which I collected from Orpington and rode back – oh being able to stay at 70mph was such a joy! I have had several bikes since and not been without one. I have fond memories of

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most of them, a 535 Virago, an old XJ600, a 1200 Bandit a Buell 1200 Lightning, a Fazer 600 and 1000 (probably the most amazing bike I’ve had). I currently own a GSR750 and an XJR400 import In 1997 Mum decided to open her own training school and I joined as a downtrained instructor taking my exams in 2000 to become a DAS instructor. The school has just got the MCITA centre of excellence award, I branched into instructor training and been given the job of Training Director.

In 2014 I joined the Road Safety team at Suffolk County Council which has been brilliant. I am a member of a very active Norfolk and Suffolk ladies group and still teach at weekends (in the summer!)

SAFE RIDER Safe Rider is a great opportunity for you to ride with a police officer, receive a demonstration ride and have your own riding assessed. Not sure? Ask someone that has done it!

“Absolutely superb. Every rider should do it.”

“It is incredible value for money. I've spent a lot of money learning to ride and this was the best £50 I have ever spent. It’s great and it works!”

“The police rider was very friendly and easy-going” …just to let you know how much I enjoyed the Safe Rider course this weekend, the informal safety lecture was invaluable, the ride out was one of the most enjoyable and memorable days I've had on a bike. All in all it was a great course and was more than worth the money.

Norfolk & Suffolk Constabularies both deliver Safe Rider. Created in 1998, thousands of riders have benefitted from an assessed ride that set them on the path to being a smoother, more accurate and safer rider and having more fun as a result.

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You will attend an evening classroom session to discuss some of the theory and a road session at the weekend with plenty of opportunities for debriefing and tea stops. It will cost you just £50.

You will receive feedback at the conclusion of the course and you will be given options on where to go if you are eager to know more.

It’s a lot of fun and the police riders are here to help you. Don’t let the opportunity pass you by, be open minded and give it a go, you may well be amazed at the improvements that are possible!

For Norfolk Safe Rider contact Andy Micklethwaite by email at andy.micklethwaite@norfolk.gov.uk or call 01603 638115 Details on Norfolk Safe Rider can be found on www.think.norfolk.gov.uk including the application form.

For Suffolk Safe Rider contact Hayley Batterham on 01473 613730 or Kevin Stark on 01473 613888 Ext 3395 or email saferider@suffolk.pnn.police.uk

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE MAGAZINE? As this is our first Norfolk & Suffolk edition, we would love to know what you think so that we can structure future editions to what you want to read.

If you complete the on-line survey you will be entered into a free draw for the following prizes:

• Win a pair of gloves up to the value of £100 through Suffolkroadsafe •A free Safe Rider course in either Norfolk or Suffolk •A set of ‘Muck Off’ bike cleaning brushes Please type this URL into your browser or quick scan the QR code to complete the form.

http://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/ NorfolkAndSuffolkBikerMagazine/

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i2i MOTORCYCLE ACADEMY Most motorcyclists fully appreciate the benefits of taking further training, but not everyone wants to do a track day or take on a process that results in some form of ‘test’.

So what’s available to you locally that’s firstly enjoyable, but that’s also challenging and very rewarding? i2i Motorcycle Academy have been working in Norfolk for 5 years and are now working in Suffolk as well, in association with the ‘Hugger’ campaign. i2imca specialise in developing rider confidence and actions, by explaining and then demonstrating techniques in ways that are really easy to understand. The aim is simple, to help riders understand what they do and more importantly, what they could do.

I attended a day with over a dozen other riders of mixed experience, abilities and bikes. In the morning session we covered balance, physical and mechanical grip, stability and 2 stage braking skills. The afternoon was based on positive steering (or counter steer) hazard avoidance skills and slow riding.

If you are spending your hard earned money and maybe taking a day off work you need to be assured that firstly – you will learn something and then secondly, that you will enjoy it.

I personally have been riding bikes for 40 years and I have attended a number of different training scenarios. The day really was darned good fun, it was very well presented and organised, the event was extremely relaxed and inclusive, all in all well worthwhile - and yes I had learnt and tried something new.

i2i is owned by Tom Killeen, a really enthusiastic guy who not only explains the theories really clearly, he then goes on to demonstrate exactly what he means…on his R1.

The other good point about i2imca is that they run a series of modules so that should you wish, you can continue your personal development of both on road and off road skills.

Tom builds a lot of his course around the stories that are circulated within the biking world - about alleged instability, braking effect, lack grip, and all the negative things that ‘might’ happen, if we believe these stories…

On today’s increasingly challenging roads, the skill sets introduced by i2i are not only of benefit – but essential.

”It is our goal on each event to create an understanding of the impacts these 'stories' have on our riding by creating a safe environment to converse, then demonstrate safely which of the "stories" are based on fact, and which are misinterpretations of experiences which hold back our true potential. In essence the above is what all the talking and teaching of the physics are for, if we convince riders it is possible and take away their fear or lack of confidence we can set them free of the stories in their heads holding them back.”

Whether you have just passed your DSA test or have been riding or years, I would challenge anyone to say they didn’t come away feeling they had found the day of benefit.

Links: www.i2imca.com www.think.norfolk.gov.uk www.suffolkroadsafe.net 5

JENNY MAKES MORE TWO WHEEL HISTORY

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On January 28th Honda (UK) announced that Jenny Tinmouth had been signed to join the Honda Racing British Superbike Championship team as it makes its full-time return to the series for 2015. Jenny completes what is now a three-rider line-up, joining Jason O’Halloran and Dan Linfoot to contest the premier class aboard the Superbike-spec Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade.

And make no mistake about it, this is no PR stunt by Honda just to engage with the female audience – Jenny is one fast rider, and has earned the right to race for a full factory team in BSB. On that subject, Nick Campolucci, Head of Motorcycles at Honda (UK), said, “There'll be a focus on Jenny because she's a female racer, of course. After all, she's the first and only woman rider to compete in British Superbikes. But she's a proven competitor and current Isle of Man TT lap record holder. Jenny joins the team on merit and we are very pleased that we have the opportunity to work with her.”

Jenny Tinmouth has been racing for over ten years and was the first female to lead and score points in a British Championship race, after leading a 125GP race aboard her Honda RS125 at Brands Hatch in 2004. Three years later she became the first woman to stand on a British Championship podium with a 3rd place finish in the Supersport Cup at Croft in 2009, and then went on to achieve another first by winning a round at Silverstone in 2010. A season that saw her claim 3rd overall in the final standings.

After a taste of the British Superbike class in 2011 with Splitlath Motorsport, Jenny put together her own team for 2012, ‘Two Wheel Racing’, running a Honda under the name of her main sponsors Hardinge and Sorrymate. com, making her the first ever female British Superbike Team owner.

Jenny Tinmouth is racing BSB at Snetterton on 19th to 21st June

Alongside the main domestic championship successes, Jenny has raced at the Isle of Man TT races, where she currently holds the record as the fastest female around the legendary Mountain course, at an average speed of 119.945mph. And won the first ever UK Electric Bike, Zero Emissions, Racing Championship the ‘TTXGP’ in 2010, as well as finishing 3rd in the World Electric bike racing Championship in Almeria the same year aboard her Agni built Z2.

Two months after putting pen to paper with Honda Racing she got her first taste of the BSB Honda superbike when she joined her team mates Dan & Jason for preseason testing at Monteblanco in Spain, in early March. With a full factory set up around her, and, for the first time in her career, the best in machinery available to her, 2015 looks like it could be another first for Jenny - as she takes on, and beats, some of the best superbike riders on the planet.

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HUGGER'S RIDER SKILLS DOWNLOADS Hugger’s Rider Skills Downloads are a free introduction to police riding practices, containing advice on being a more accurate, flowing and inevitably safer while getting more enjoyment out of your bike.

While the content is up to date, the downloads are rooted in a driving and riding system called “Roadcraft” that was established nearly 100 years ago.

Very few changes have been made to Roadcraft manuals over the years, other than graphics and technological updates because it’s based on common sense. Generations of police riders have been trained according to its principles. It works!

Roadcraft origins can be traced back to the 1920s and Sir Mark Everard Pepys, the 6th Earl of Cottenham, a racing driver and motoring enthusiast who had a radio show promoting safer driving. His advice included what is now known as the ‘Safe Riding Rule’ of being able to stop in the distance you can see to be clear on your own side of the road .

In the 1930s the Earl was recruited by the fledgling Metropolitan police driving school where he influenced the principles and techniques of advanced police driver training.

Roadcraft has long been adopted as the standard reference material by the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) & the Royal Society for the prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) and has formed the basis of numerous press articles over the years that, whilst not necessarily crediting Roadcraft as the source, were clearly based on its content.

The Downloads were created as an introduction to Roadcraft available to everyone, the information is too valuable not to be widely known. They are used as pre reads for Norfolk and Suffolk Constabulary’s Safe Rider programme.

Free to download, they contain many topics from the manual repackaged in a lighter way with graphics and embedded Youtube video to reinforce the explanations.

THE TOPICS COVERED ARE: - Cornering - Overtaking - Filtering - System

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- Junctions - Observation & Planning - Wet Weather Riding

Examples of pages from one of the downloads

There is also one aimed squarely at Young Riders of small bikes and scooters.

We would always advise that you take training with an instructor to get the most out of your bike. However, reading these documents should at least get you thinking about what you are currently doing and where you might consider changing things. They can be found on www.think.norfolk.gov.uk or http://www.suffolkroadsafe.net/ Please note - The YouTube videos may not run on some tablet devices but will run on computers with full versions of internet browsers that .

The downloads are not a replacement for Roadcraft, they are an introduction to just some of the principles and we would always advise reading the manual.

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TWO LEGENDARY CONTINENTAL BIKING ROADS. ARE THEY AS GOOD AS THEIR REPUTATIONS? Karl Adler There are many continental roads highly prized by bikers. Two of the most talked about are the Grossglockner in the Austrian Alps and the B500 south of Baden Baden in the Black Forest but do they live up to their reputations?

The Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse (high alpine road) is a masterpiece of 1930’s engineering and heads from the valley south of Zell am See to the glacier at the Grossglockner, the highest mountain in Austria at 3798 metres. The road winds its way through alpine meadows and rugged mountains inhabited by Ibex & Marmots to the snow line with some of the most stunning views you could wish for. You have 48 kilometres of this tarmac perfection to enjoy with an ascent of 2,504 metres and a surface with tyre shredding skid resistance coupled with seemingly endless bends. What more could you ask for?

It will cost you 24 Euros to ride it although you can add a second day pass for an extra 10 Euros or a 30 day one for 41 Euros if you become hopelessly addicted, which you probably will. It’s worth every cent. Unlike the Stelvio pass, that has severe cambers on the inside of some bends, the Grossglockner bends are reasonably gentle cambers making it a much easier and more flowing ride`. To get the most out of it you would be well advised to get up early if riding during peak season as it can get quite busy with traffic. The continuous bike traffic heading back down by late morning is clear indication that most bikers have got the message.

Part of the way up the climb is a spur that ascends along a tight winding brick weaved road to Bikers Point. It affords a great view back down the mountain at a small section of the magical snake of tarmac that you have just ridden up.

The glacier on the Grossglockner at Kaiser Fanz Joseph Hohe

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The view down from Bikers Point on the Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse

Back on the main road it meanders its way through more bends and some short tunnels until you eventually reach the Franz Josef Hohe from which point, should you feel so inclined, you can climb down to the base of the glacier.

This is one road that you absolutely must ride before you hang up your boots. It would be a good idea to take a helmet camera because, although nobody else will want to see it, much like your holiday snaps, you will definitely want to sit down and watch it later.

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Heading back down the Grossglockner

If the Grossglockner fully deserves its legendary reputation, the B500 road south of Baden Baden falls a bit short. It’s not a problem with the road itself, it is a fabulous route typical of many in the Black Forest, the problem is the speed limits.

The heavy toll of bike crashes resulted in the authorities imposing draconian speed limits that make riding the road tedious. The explanation of why the speed limits appear so ‘over the top’ becomes clear when you learn that three years ago there was, on average, one rider a week being killed.

The most popular section is probably from Baden Baden south towards Freudenstat with its interminable 50, 60, 70 and, occasionally, 80kph speed limits. If the road was subject to the national speed limit of 100kph (60mph) it would be perfectly safe and enjoyable if ridden sensibly at that speed but there’s the rub.

It is easy to imagine how some riders have attacked it way too fast, beyond their ability and got it badly wrong and there are an awful lot of trees to hit if you are incapable of keeping it on the tarmac.

The section south of Seebach, opens out into fast, sweeping bends more akin to heathland than forest with a 100 kph speed limit. You would be well advised to watch your speed though as the fines are eye-wateringly high.

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The road stops at this point and somewhat bizarrely re-starts many miles further south at Triberg a continental practice alien to UK bikers used to road numbers continuing unbroken to their end.

The good news is that the B500 is not the only road in the area and Swartzwald is still a great place to ride. The biker’s café just north of Seebach on the B500 has free coloured maps detailing some choice routes in the area and there are some cracking roads to choose from.

You can’t miss the café, it has a huge wooden statue of a Harley in front of it. If that invites a quip, it is being resisted!

You may have seen Pension Williams at Seebach mentioned in MCN. It is very popular with UK bikers and run by a very nice British couple but book early.

The places to eat in Seebach are a bit limited and it largely depends on how you like your pork cooked, Schnitzel, medallions, steaks etc. Pork seems to be compulsory and ‘vegetarian option’ probably loses something in translation and just involves a bit less pork.

Pack your bags and head to central Europe, you won’t regret it.

Not the B500 but a much better road in the area

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SUFFOLK WHEELS 2 WORK GETTING MORE PEOPLE TO WORK ACROSS MORE OF SUFFOLK Suffolk Wheels 2 Work expands to Sudbury and Stowmarket with JobCentre Plus.

Thanks to funding made available through the Department of Work and Pensions, Suffolk Wheels 2 Work has recently launched a 6 month project offering scooter loans to individuals registered with Sudbury or Stowmarket Job Centre Plus, who are unemployed and have been offered a job placement.

Initial training, safety equipment and 10 weeks loan of a 50cc Honda Vision moped is offered free of charge. The partnership aims to improve employment outcomes for individuals living in Babergh and Mid Suffolk over the next 6 months helping to tackle transport barriers that may be preventing access to work, either due to home or employment locations, shift patterns that do not fit public transport timetables, or work involving daily travel such as agency care work.

If you would like to find out more or think you may be eligible for the Suffolk Wheels 2 Work scheme, contact the Project Coordinator, Andy Simpson, on 01473 345322, mobile 07901 914566 or andy.simpson@communityactionsuffolk.org.uk. www.facebook.com/Wheels2Work.Suffolk

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Jonathan has recently passed his basic training and is now travelling to his job with Johnson Controls in Lower Glemsford, Sudbury thanks to Suffolk Wheels 2 Work.

“Before being accepted onto the Suffolk Wheels 2 Work scheme my only means of transport was by bus or having to walk everywhere, but by the time I finished work there was no public transport available so I had an 11 mile walk home. Without Suffolk Wheels 2 Work my job opportunities were severely limited and I suspect I would still be seeking employment. Now I have my own transport which means I can get to and from work, and it has also given me the opportunity to extend my social life beyond the transport limitations I had before. It is an excellent scheme and I hope many others can also receive the same opportunity and massive benefits that it has given me.”

Jonathan’s new scooter not only helps him travel to work, but has also improved his social life

Kevin Davies is employed by the SVC Agency in Nayland and is also benefitting from the scheme.

Kevin now finds it much easier to get to and from work, thanks to Suffolk Wheels 2 Work

“Public transport in my area is not too bad but it restricts me with many jobs where I finish work late at night”. When I attended the Sudbury Jobsfair in October, I was informed that on the successful acceptance of a firm job offer that I would be eligible for a scooter loan from Suffolk Wheels 2 Work. The scooter is helping to change my life and allowing me to open more doors in my working life, and socially. Suffolk Wheels 2 Work also recognised that I travelled long distances and have provided me with a Honda Vision 110cc scooter which has been fantastic, it’s a great scheme which I would highly recommend to others”

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SOME POPULAR BIKER VENUES & EVENTS IN NORFOLK & SUFFOLK Summer biker meeting places tend to change over time but the current favourites in Norfolk and Suffolk are as follows. If you know of any that we don’t please email them to us for future editions.

Norfolk Bike Meets Whitwell & Reepham Railway Museum

Friday evenings

This is unquestionably the most popular venue in Norfolk with several hundred bikes congregating on a fine evening. The museum has good catering facilities and opportunities to mingle with other bikers.

The venue can be found by heading from Norwich towards Fakenham on the A1067 and turning right down Nowhere Lane (honestly!) about a mile after leaving Gt Witchingham/ Lenwade. It’s a narrow road and the Railway museum can be found on the right.www.whitwellstation.com

White Swan Public House, Gt Yarmouth Friday evenings

This has been a long standing venue for bikers for many years. It is easily found, located on the left just over the river bridge as you enter Gt Yarmouth from the A47.

McDonalds A143 Ditchingham roundabout Friday evenings Located near Beccles, this has become a popular meeting point for riders during the summer, often as a prelude to heading off to the White Swan at Gt Yarmouth.

Ox & Plough pub Old Buckenham Tuesday evenings

A very popular biker friendly pub with riders of classic bikes but all are welcome. It can be seen on the left across the green travelling from Attleborough towards Diss. A mobile hot dog/burger vendor is normally present plus a curry stall as well this year.

Hunstanton Sea Front Sundays This is a very popular meeting point, albeit predominantly with bikers living outside of Norfolk, making the A149 well travelled on a Sunday. There is a very small charge levied for parking by the local council.

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Wells next the Sea Sundays

Less prominent than Hunstanton but Wells Quay is still a popular destination for bikers on a Sunday.

Regular Shows & Events Numerous dealer launch events or special weekends occur during the year and are notified via Hugger’s Twitter & Facebook. Follow Hugger on thinkhugger (Twitter) or Think! Hugger (Facebook) to make sure you don’t miss anything that’s going on.

Major Events 2015 British Super Bikes Snetterton round

Wimbotsham Classic Bike Show

Friday 19th to Sunday 21st June

Monday 31st August

Wheels next the Sea bike show (Wells)

Copdock Motorcycle Show Trinity Park Ipswich

Sunday 21st June

Sun 4th October

Thetford Bike Show Sunday 19th July

Suffolk Bike Events Tuesday

Thursday

The Greyhound, Wickhambrooke, Suffolk CB8 8XS

Krazy Horse, 1st Thursday of month Deputy Dawgs, A14 The Ram Hotel , Brandon, Suffolk except the 1st Thurs.

Wednesday

Saturday.

Brewers Arms, Rattlesden, Suffolk

Brandon Chick King 1st Saturday of month.

Norfolk Bike Groups Many groups of riders in Norfolk are loosely based around Facebook pages and not listed here. Those groups that we know of with functioning websites are:

Eastern Riders - http://www.easternriders.co.uk/index.html Fenlanders IAM group - www.nnam.org Norfolk Advanced Motorcyclists - www.n-a-m.co.uk Norfolk Honda Owners Club - http://www.norfolkhoc.co.uk/ North Norfolk Motorcycle Club - http://nnmotorcycleclub.blogspot.co.uk/ Thetford & District Motorcycle Club - www.spanglefish.com/ thetfordanddistrictmotorcycleclub/index.asp

Vintage Motorcycle Club - www.vmccnorwich.co.uk 19

BMW R100 CAFÉ RACER SPECIAL Sid Carr has been honing his craft, building specials for himself and his girlfriend for many years. Believing in the soundness of older BMW’s as a project base on both cost and availability grounds, he set about this latest project with a clear idea of what he wanted to do and having learned lessons from previous projects.

The attention to detail is as delightful as the raucous bellow from the Ducati 900SS silencers with ‘Supertrap’ style end mufflers and home made end caps. The bike has a beautiful simplicity and clean lines, so refreshing in these days of complex technology begging the obvious question whether ‘tech’ actually enhances the riding experience.

Sid explained “I started the project knowing that I wanted the bike to be focussed and not in the least bit practical. I think I achieved that!” The standard boxer forks were not up to the job so some K series forks and brakes were fitted. Sid said “Fitting the K discs to the wire wheels and into those forks was a 30 hour nightmare of measuring, machining and swearing!”

Triumph Thruxton clip on bars complete the front end.

Sid made the fairing, mudguard & seat assembly himself and extended the tank rearwards with a dummy section purely for styling reasons.

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make the same units. They are a good midprice compromise.

He continued “Having ridden older generation BMW’s for years, I felt that the frame would benefit from strengthening so I fabricated lugs to mount a bolted diagonal cross-bracing tube to each side of the frame. You can really feel the difference compared to a standard frame, it’s much tauter. I used fitted bolts to eliminate any flex”. He also fabricated the rear sub-frame and rear sets.

The bike is fitted D’ellorto PHM38’s with the accelerator pumps removed and whilst the gauze mesh over the bellmouth may not do much to resist dust ingress it is a small price to pay for doing away with the ugly stock airbox.

He has previously fitted Koni Dial-A-Ride shock absorbers to most of his specials, being a sensibly priced solution that work well in a variety of applications. Koni stopped making shock absorbers some while ago but the patterns and production tooling was transferred to Australia where Ikon continue to

The engine tuning work was entrusted to his friend Steve at Scriminger Engine Developments (SED) in Sleaford. For those interested in the engineering detail the engine has twin plug R80 heads, a machined squish band, an 11:1 compression ratio, pistons & rods balanced, dual valve springs, gas flowed heads, 336 cams helping it to rev to 8,300rpm. It runs the same state of tune as those engines prepared by SED for sidecar racers with between 82 & 85 bhp at the rear wheel.

Sid says that some black magic has been worked on the timing but he is sworn to secrecy on that aspect.

The earlier rounded profile rocker covers are so much more attractive than the more angular stock period items and fit beautifully to the style of the bike.

Some experimentation was required with the ‘Supertrap’ muffler discs to get the noise levels right. “I realised that I needed to add more discs to the stack when I was stunning Seagulls from 50 yards away…” Sid laughed.

“It was always going to be a case of trial and error but I’m happy with the way it sounds and runs now and it passed the MOT like it so it can’t be that bad!”

The countless hours of painstaking work in the shed were well spent, this is a superb creation of which he should be rightfully proud.

The current owner of Sid’s first café racer project had it dyno tested.

It is a sound to behold. Search YouTube for ‘BMW Café Racer Dyno Run’ or type in this URL. https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=4lg0atJAmWM or scan the QR code.

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BACK ON TWO WHEELS! Phil Armes Former International motorcycle racer Phil Armes looked to defy the odds in 2013 at the Manx Grand Prix when he swapped his wheelchair for an SV650 Suzuki and donned a set a leathers for the first time since breaking his back at the Ulster Grand Prix in 1995. After patient tuition from the team at ‘The Bike Experience’ charity, at Silverstone, and further practice at Snetterton, in Norfolk, Phil attempted to be the first paraplegic to ride a solo around the TT course when he participated in the 90th anniversary past winners parade lap.

As he explained, “18 years and 10 days after crashing at the Ulster Grand Prix and breaking my back I managed to do something which in all honesty I never thought would be possible – I slung my leg over a racing motorcycle and set off down the Glencrutchery Road in the Isle of Man to ride on my favourite track – the TT Course. I have to admit that when I was sitting on the bike ready for the start of my lap my

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stomach was home to a herd of elephants, and it did cross my mind that sometimes I would be better to keep my silly ideas to myself. But when I was given the nod and my crew duly launched me, that feeling as I rode off down Bray Hill (it’s a good deal steeper than I remembered) was one that will stay with me forever. Just two miles later as I headed out of Union Mills the video in my brain clicked back in and I knew where I was, and where I needed to be for the racing line – and that racers smile returned!!”

Unfortunately it didn’t all go to plan and a technical issue resulted in him tumbling off at Ramsey Hairpin. Undaunted he was determined to return in 2014 to ride in the Classic TT parade lap, and “finish the job,” on a Triumph Daytona 675 that has been supplied by MotorLings of Lowestoft, and sponsored by Maxxis Tyres, and Datatag.

TRIUMPH DAYTONA 675 THE MODIFICATIONS Given that Phil is paralysed from the stomach downwards it is necessary to make a number of modifications to the Triumph for him to be able to ride it.

Footrests – cycle toe clips are fitted on an

Gear change – a Pro-Shift unit is fitted to

Leg security – to provide some support and control the security of his legs, there are Velcro straps attached to both sides of the bike, just below the petrol tank, which wrap around the knees and fasten on the knee slider pads on his race suit.

the bike which operates the gear linkage via a solenoid from two push buttons on the handlebars. Green to shift up, and Red to shift down.

Brakes – both front and rear brakes are

operated from a dual brake lever fitted to the right handlebar in place of the usual front brake lever.

extension plate to the standard footrests, and lined with Velcro. Phil’s boots have Velcro on the soles which keep his feet secured to the footrests.

The bike is, in all other aspects, exactly as any other machine that has been prepared for use on a race track

But once again he was thwarted, this time by the weather, which caused the postponement of the parade lap and resulted in Phil having to return home without turning a wheel on the world famous circuit. Although he did manage to ride at the Festival of Bikes at Jurby on the Isle of Man, in front of thousands of people, and put the Triumph through it’s paces.

Not one to be beaten, and drawing on the overwhelming public and media response to his efforts Phil has set himself a full programme of activities in 2015, which takes in several other high profile events. In addition to a third trip to the Isle of Man, he will also make an emotional return to Northern Ireland in August for a lap of the Ulster Grand Prix course on the 20th anniversary of the accident that changed his life. Alongside the riding schedule Phil will also be visiting some of the spinal injury rehabilitation units around the UK to talk to patients and staff, and raise money for two charities, Spinal Research and The Bike Experience.

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DUCATI NORWICH

SEASTAR SUPERBIKES A brand new purpose built Ducati showroom has been the winter project of Seastar Superbikes based in Newton Flotman, just a few miles outside of Norwich on the A140.

Having been official Ducati dealers since 2007, Seastar have taken the premium Italian motorcycle brand of Ducati to the next level to become a Ducati Store, one of only a handful in the UK. Seastar Superbikes have seen an increase in business of 50% over the last two years and this success has been utilised to expand and grow the company by investing into the new Ducati showroom. To achieve the coveted Ducati ‘Store’ status, Seastar have made a substantial investment of some £200,000 into becoming ‘Ducati Norwich’ and anticipate further growth over the next few years.

Vince Vrinten, Managing Director said ‘We have been able to invest the profit back into the business to continue to improve the business and to expand and grow further. We believe this will give our valued existing customers an even better motorcycle buying experience, whilst attracting new customers to our growing dealership’.

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He went on to say ‘In addition to having two thriving brands of Kawasaki and Ducati, we strive to offer great customer service to our customers across all departments including the busy servicing and our large motorcycle clothing department’.

Over recent years Ducati have introduced some stunning motorcycles from the success of the Ducati 899 to this year’s 1299 Panigale S flagship model (demo now available!)

Most recently Ducati have launched the Scrambler brand, seeing the reinvention of this iconic motorcycle. Ducati Norwich will have its very own ‘Land of Joy’ in the new showroom, why not come and see it for yourself.

If you’d like any further information or to book a test ride on one of Seastar’s many demo bikes please call 01508 471919 or email sales@seastarsuperbikes.co.uk.

Alternative view their website at www.seastarsuperbikes.co.uk.

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DevittInsurance @DevittInsurance

How to save money on your motorbike insurance Here at Devitt we know that you’re never going to get excited about your motorbike insurance, it’s compulsory by law and we’re all looking for good cover and great service at a competitive price – but there are certain things you can do to help keep that premium as low as possible.

Anything you can do to improve your safety, skills or security can help to reduce the cost of your motorbike insurance but here are a few of our top tips for keeping your insurance premium to a minimum:

1 Ride safely – less claims and less points on your licence means cheaper insurance.

2 Take advanced training courses – some insurers recognise certain courses and will offer discounts.

3 Keep your mileage down and inform your insurance company – less usage could mean cheaper insurance, but you’ll need to declare it and may have a restricted mileage agreement.

4 Lock your motorbike in your garage overnight – anything you can do to make it harder to steal will reduce your premium.

5 On the security theme, use a tracking device, as well as lock, chain or anchor.

6 Modifications can often mean more expensive insurance if your bike is made more

powerful – so try and keep modifications to a minimum and speak to your insurer first.

7 Products such as Excess Protect can help – if you increase your excess at the quote stage then your insurance premium may well decrease, you can then protect your excess.

If you’re looking for advice or help with your motorbike insurance then don’t hesitate to contact Devitt Insurance Services on 0808 178 7094 or visit devittinsurance.com for further info or an online quote in minutes.

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Keep Britain Biking is an online biker community celebrating the UK’s lively biker scene. It has been running since 2010 and has over 15,000 members who share their passion for two wheels through the website at KeepBritainBiking.com.

Share your knowledge!

Lots of active members write blogs about their latest experiences, opinions and destinations and enjoy starting conversations about the latest issues that bikers face. It’s great place to meet new like-minded people and get your thoughts heard.

Members can upload their own events, routes and destinations too – it’s the perfect place to share your knowledge and see what other bikers think.

Offers and competitions The site is always updating and promoting their latest biker offers to members, with exclusive discount codes at popular online motorcycle related shops. They regularly run competitions for freebies too, so if you’re looking to get your hands on a new helmet, gloves or boots it’s worth keeping an eye on their Facebook page to see if they have a prize draw running.

Discover Biker Britain If you want to find your nearest biker café, club, rideout, a great route or biker friendly establishment then look no further. Keep Britain Biking offers a guide to everything biking in Britain, so if you want to find something local or you’re planning a trip then this is your one-stopshop for all your biker info needs.

KeepBritainBiking |

@BritainBiking

JOIN KEEPBRITAINBIKING.COM FOR FREE TODAY and stay up to date with the latest news in the UK biker community!

13

POLICE CENTRAL ESCORT GROUP Sgt Andy Spall

Cycling in Britain has really taken off in the last few years, with names like Wiggins, Froome and Hoy becoming household names and achieving real celebrity status.

as it does on the Continent in respect of road closures and Policing support.

This has been helped by events like the Tour of Britain, the Olympics in 2012, and of course the “Grand Depart” of the Tour De France in 2014.

For the main part events on the public road network do not get full road closure orders, the exceptions being the Olympic Games and the Tour De France. It would be virtually impossible to hold those events without full road closures.

Cycling racing on the road in Britain doesn’t have the same support from the authorities

That’s where the Central Escort Group comes in. The CEG is a team of 28 Police

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motorcyclists, consisting of 26 Constables and 2 Sergeants, plus a Command car and a rear car, led by an ACPO appointed commander.

The role of the CEG is to enforce a complete road closure, for while on an event like the Tour De France, the roads are officially closed and junctions may be blocked by barriers or cones there are still hundreds of private drives, business premises and farm tracks that can never be physically barriered.

The Police bikes work a “caterpillar” system which involves each the bikes bumping each other on at a given hazard, the first bike will stop at the hazard and deal with any traffic there, and when the next bike comes along he “bumps” his mate on who moves forward to the next hazard, the second bike is bumped on by the third and so on. Their role is to clear all traffic off the road so that the race can use whichever part of the road they like and don’t have to worry about oncoming traffic.

This all sounds very simple until you consider that the race can be travelling at speeds of 35 to 40 mph, and the Police bikes are going form a standing start to a stop again each time, they have to be really switched on to

what is going on behind them, things often get very fraught as we come into built up areas where there are lots of hazards to deal with. That’s what sorts out the riders who slip clutches for a long time and those with good machine consideration.

On the Tour De France and the Olympic games there was less work for the Police bike to do, but on other events such as the Mens and Womens Tours, the Police bikes have to deal with all the junctions, oncoming traffic, pedestrian and any number of other hazards.

The Police riders are all chosen for the team for their skill and experience, and it is a great job to have, I’ve been involved in the CEG since 1997, as Constable on a working bike, organiser and recently as a bike Sergeant, and the response the bikes get from the huge numbers of the public that turn out to see an event is overwhelming, the Police bikes have become part of the show, getting the crowds cheering and waving, posing for photographs, looking good and adding to the whole atmosphere. It’s one of the occasions where the Police are showing the professional way we work to deliver a safe and secure event for the public and competitors to enjoy.

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KRAZY HORSE & ROCKERS Krazy Horse Opens Next Venue to Showcase Premium Dealerships for Iconic UK and US Motorcycles and Cars.

Krazy Horse, the Suffolk-based dealership that builds desire-quenching custom bikes for enthusiasts from the East of England, has opened a second multi-dealership opposite the company’s main motorcycle destination venue on Lark Valley Business Park where it will showcase three premium motorcycle and car brands from the UK and the US. The new dealerships include The Morgan Motor Company founded over 100 years ago in the UK by Henry Morgan, and from the US, Victory Motorcycle, and

Indian® Motorcycle founded in 1901 – America’s first motorcycle company.

The 6000 sq ft showroom will display truly head-turning and iconic cars and bikes including Classic Morgans, Aero Morgans; Victory’s muscle cruisers, baggers and touring motorcycles; and the Chiefs, Chieftains and just-launched Scouts from Indian® Motorcycle, both legendary motorcycle brands from America.

In addition to cars and motorcycles the multi-dealership will include accessories and clothing from each of the brands.

The Morgan Motor Company, based in Malvern, craft over 1300 cars for its customers each year.

Speaking about the opening, Krazy Horse MD Paul Beamish said: ‘It’s just two years – February 2013 - since the opening of the Krazy Horse destination venue and we are delighted to say we opened this second showroom to cope with the success of this destination venue for petrol heads everywhere. We are selling motorcycles, classic cars, coffee, food and clothing to people who want to have some fun at the weekends. Our customers want to find something that helps them to get more out of life - and we are more than happy to help them.’

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House, Lark Valley Business Park and the new Krazy Horse showroom is located opposite (behind the Cecil & Larter Volvo Dealership).

‘We need more space in our main venue, more dealership space and more space for our workshops and this new acquisition will give us just that within a short stroll from our main site.’

‘We are delighted to now be a flagship main dealer for the Morgan Motor Company serving Suffolk, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire and with everything creatively displayed in next-door venues, we can guarantee that we will have something for everyone with a passion for motorcycles and classic cars.

We don’t just want customers to visit, we want them to be astounded at what there is to see – we believe that everything they can imagine is real.’

One new member of staff has already been recruited bringing the total employed by Krazy Horse to 31 and the business is looking to add more new staff during 2015 for the multidealership showroom.

The Krazy Horse main site features the Rockers Café and Bar, a collaboration with the world-famous bike and car destination venue and meeting-place, Ace Cafe London. The main facility is located at Empire

The main venue boasts a collection of unique street-machines, including ranging from luxury Japanese Zero Engineering ‘Samurai Chopper’ bikes to racing Patons and Zaeta Motorcycles from Italy, the heritage ®Norton Motorcycles brand which is now manufactured at Donnington Hall and re-launched in the UK and US, handcrafted Krazy Horse dream-custom motorcycles, and the most recently announced additions to the range Avinton Motorcycles from France and A Chopper.

Krazy Horse, which has developed a worldwide reputation for building custom bikes, was started by Paul Beamish as a hobby, but when he couldn’t get the parts he needed locally he established a shop that has continued to expand since opening in 1996.

Clothing brands available from the new destination petrol venue, cafe and outlet include Belstaff, Red Wing Shoes, Levi’s, Levi’s Vintage Clothing, Dickies, Draggin, Roland Sands, Jofama, Deus, Davida, Premier, Roof and Hedon.

Victory Motorcycles start at under £9000.

Custom motorcycle costs start at under £20,000 and hand built Morgan cars from just over £30,000. For further details visit www.krazyhorse.co.uk, www. krazyhorsemorgan.co.uk, www. krazyhorseIndian.co.uk, www.krazyhorsevictory.co.uk or see Krazy Horse on facebook and twitter.

Further information: Paul Beamish at Krazy Horse on 01284 749645 or paul@ravenwood.co.uk or mobile 07989 561 718 or Alison Baker at Madhouse PR on 01284 830321 or madhousepr@aol.com or mobile 07771 658 612.

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IT’S NEVER BEEN EASIER TO START TRAINING

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Learn to ride or upgrade your licence at CJ Ball training schools.

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For more information or to talk about any of our courses, give us a call and we’ll be happy to help.

Find out more at cjball.co.uk/training Book your place now on 01603 307 500 CJ Ball Salhouse Road Norwich NR7 9AB Mon - Sat: 8.30am - 6.00pm Sun (Mar - Oct): Sales only 10.00am - 1.00pm

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CBT PLUS COURSE Most people are aware that mopeds, scooters and small bikes can give young people an economical, convenient and fun form of transport. However, although accurate statistics can be hard to obtain we also know that 2 wheels, and that includes bicycles, have a much greater risk factor per mile when compared to cars. Surely the only way to reduce the risk without more legislation and more enforcement is to improve the training. The CBT requirement for new riders has been seen as a success, but cost pressure and the demand for convenience has lead to the course being crammed into one day at most training schools. This can make it a very stressful for both the pupils and instructors when trying to complete the comprehensive syllabus to the required standard in such a short time. In view of this we insist on novice riders completing a free taster session ahead of the CBT day. This normally takes place between 15.30 and 17.30 on most days. We have used this taster to assess the ability of the student to be able to

comfortably complete a CBT in a day. If that seems unlikely we offer additional taster sessions at a ÂŁ25 charge.

Encouraged by the obvious benefits of this strategy we have decided to take this process further. The CBT is made up of five elements, (A to E) which must be completed in turn before moving on to the next. These five elements have traditionally all taken place in one day. Instead, for a CBT Plus course we will complete elements A and B in a separate session. Element A is an introduction and clothing discussion. Element B is an explanation of the controls, maintenance of the bike and bike handling without riding.

Separating these two elements from the rest of the course will allow our instructors to give useful additional information about clothing & maintenance. The next three parts of the CBT can then be completed on a separate day, this will give pupils more time riding and we intend to extend the minimum time that they are accompanied on the road from two hours to three.

Our price for a CBT Plus course will be ÂŁ149.

CBT PLUS CONTENT:1 - Taster session 15.30-17.30 (most days) 2 - Elements A and B, clothing, maintenance and controls (am or pm sessions) 3 - Elements C, D & E on-site riding, classroom and road session (08.30 to 16.00)

33

DAVID'S STORY A hard-hitting road safety video showing footage of a fatal collision in Norfolk has received more than 16 million views.

‘David’s story’ attracted worldwide attention and was watched by more than one million people within 24 hours of being released in September 2014.

The video, which features film captured on the headcam of Norwich motorcyclist David Holmes killed on the A47 at Honingham, was released with the aim of getting riders and drivers to think about road safety and ultimately save lives.

The dramatic film shows the moment a car crossed into the path of the 38-year-old who was travelling from King’s Lynn towards Norwich when the collision happened in June 2013. While David was travelling at about

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97mph and breaking the speed limit at the time, the driver of the car admitted he had not seen David or the car behind the motorcycle, prior to the collision.

With the video continuing to receive attention David’s mother Brenda hopes the campaign has had a positive impact in making riders and drivers think seriously about their behaviour.

She said: “It really is amazing how far reaching it’s been. David wasn’t blameless and I accept this and I hope the campaign has made people more aware of what can go wrong. It’s not always just the life that’s lost but it’s all the people that are left behind; you never recover from it.”

Brenda added: “David was the most wonderful son and his loss has left such a void in our lives. Being without him has changed everything and one of the hardest things for me seeing the footage is that David must have had a moment of fear at the end of his life. I can truly say I know the meaning of heartache; it’s a physical pain.”

Chief Inspector Chris Spinks, head of the Roads Policing Unit in Norfolk and Suffolk, said he remained "astonished” by the number of views but believes drivers and riders could still learn lessons from David’s story.

He said: "My advice is to drive and ride defensively; expect the unexpected. When approaching hazards, such as junctions or crossings, motorists should adjust their speed, allowing them time to react to any unforeseen situations.

"I remain astonished by the attention the video has received; David’s story got people talking, it created debate about road safety and this was exactly our intention when releasing the footage.

serious of fatal collision but I believe it was and remains powerful enough to change people’s attitude towards their driving and riding behaviour for the better.”

David’s story generated thousands of comments on the Norfolk and Suffolk police social media sites with messages received from people in Russia, USA, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Germany, France, New Zealand and Australia.

Ch Insp Spinks added: "We know David was travelling at speed but regardless of this, the car manoeuvre should not have been attempted. Clearly David was taking a risk and paid the ultimate price. The majority of bikers ride responsibly however, I’m sure many will relate to the riding style seen in this video. We know motorcyclists are a vulnerable group and this sad case is a reminder to all roads users to be alert to what is going on around you and to lower your speed.”

To view David’s story, visit www.norfolk.police.uk or www.suffolk.police.uk.

"We were never naïve enough to think a hard-hitting video would prevent every

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Dave Barkshire is a huge name in the Norfolk motorcycling world and has been in business for over 30 years now.

DAVE BARKSHIRE MOTORCYCLES CHESTNUT COURT RACKHEATH INDUSTRIAL ESTATE NORWICH, NR13 6LH

Tel: 01603 722800 www.davebarkshire.com

Photos of Tom Killeen i2imca

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