It takes a village

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Inside Motorcycles. A quarter of a century is a significant milestone for any business. But for a print magazine, existing in today’s environment –where digital platforms have taken over the communication of news and information – is an accomplishment worthy of celebration.

My wife often reminds me that the expression “it takes a village to raise a child” is equally applicable to building a successful business. In the case of Inside Motorcycles, the village started with David Weber, Greg MacPherson, Rob Morton and John Hopkins, who collectively took a leap of faith in 1998 when they launched this magazine just one year after their other publication, Inside Track Motorsports News hit newsstands.

The fact that both magazines are still being produced is a testament to this group’s original vision and the ongoing direction, mentorship and support that David and Greg continue to provide today.

A publication is only as good as the content contained within, and Inside Motorcycles has been fortunate to have some of the most respected motorcycle journalists in the country grace its pages over the last 25 years. The roster of columnists, test riders and feature writers – both present and past – takes on the responsibility of reporting on an ever-changing industry while also maintaining the values upon which this publication was built.

While it may be unfair to single out just one contributor, it is impossible to reflect on the history of this magazine without talking about Mr. Colin Fraser. As a part of Inside Motorcycles since the beginning, he has helped shape the publication, and along the way, the Canadian motorcycle industry itself.

While Inside Motorcycles is built on a collective passion for motorcycles, the reality is that it is a business, which would not exist without the support of advertisers and business partners. The emergence and ongoing expansion of the digital world brings with it new avenues for manufacturers, distributors and retailers to reach and interact with their customers. And to those who continue to believe in and support the realm of print, a sincere and heartfelt thank you.

As always, whenever possible we encourage you to consider and support the advertisers you see in these pages when you are deciding where to spend your hard-earned money.

Saving the best for last, it would be impossible to celebrate the success of this magazine without acknowledging you, the reader. It goes without saying that without you there would be no Inside Motorcycles.

For this reason, the genesis of every issue has always been and will always be what information will be the most relevant and engaging for the readers. To those who have taken the time reach out and provide feedback, story ideas and even completed articles, please know that it is truly appreciated.

To all our readers, regardless of where, when or how you read Inside Motorcycles, thank you for taking this journey with us. Have a safe, adventurous and fun-filled riding season. IM

Inside Track Communications, Inc. PO Box 370, Brights Grove, ON N0N 1C0 (Administration) 78 Airdrie Road, East York, ON M4G 1M2 (Editorial) 416-962-RACE (7223) • Fax: 416-962-7208 • www.insidemotorcycles.com

EDITOR

Patrick Lambie patrick@insidemotorcycles.com

SENIOR EDITORS

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Toni Sharpless tojam39@gmail.com

Jason Thorpe jason@insidemotorcycles.com

Andrew Trevitt andrew.trevitt@gmail.com

Frank Wood motor_mouth43@hotmail.com

David Weber david@insidemotorcycles.com

Lindsey Broad lindsey@insidemotorcycles.com

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James Neilson james@insidetracknews.com

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Andrew Trevitt

Elisa Ward

SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ed Gatner, Ben Quinn, Tim McGill

Mike Galipeau mike@insidemotorcycles.com

DESIGN & PRODUCTION

Dawn McClintock

Lindsey Broad

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WHERE TO FIND INSIDE MOTORCYCLES

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Alternatively, you can pick up a copy at your favourite motorcycle retailer or insidemotorcycles.com.

Inside Motorcycles is published 8 times a year by Inside Track Communications, Inc.

PRESIDENT: John Hopkins john@insidemotorcycles.com

VICE PRESIDENT: Greg MacPherson greg@insidemotorcycles.com

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All content within this magazine is provided for general information, educational and resource purposes only. Inside Motorcycles is not responsible or liable for any action that a reader takes in connection with the demonstrated exercises, instructions and riding advice provided in this magazine. Please note that certain activities described in this magazine may be dangerous, especially if proper safety equipment and clothing is not used.

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KLX230 Receives Switchable ABS

Elevating the off-road capabilities of Kawasaki’s KLX230, Canadian Kawasaki Motors has announced that updated versions of their 233 cc air-cooled single-cylinder dual sport machine will now be available with switchable ABS.

Providing the ability to shut off ABS when riding off-road and in other situations where rear-wheel slip can actually improve a rider’s control, without sacrificing the safety of full ABS when riding in downtown settings and highways, is a substantial improvement in the overall versatility of the KLX230.

The switchable ABS option will also be available on the KLX230 S which offers all of the KLX230 features with a lower seat height of 830 mm (32.7 in) vs. 885 mm (34.8 in) on the KLX230.

MSRP for the 2023 KLX230 with ABS starts at $5,899. The non-ABS equipped model retails for $5,759.

Visit www.kawasaki.ca for complete specifications. IM

Yamaha Power Assist Bicycles Now Available in Canada

While Yamaha has been manufacturing and selling power assist bicycles since 1993, the company’s eBikes have not been sold in Canada, until now. Currently arriving in showrooms, Yamaha Motor Canada will be offering two version of their new YDX-MORO eBikes.

Powered by the company’s PW-X3 electric motor, both models feature multiple levels of assist which include Eco, Standard, High, MTB, Extra Power, Automatic and Walk Assist. The Automatic mode adjusts the level of assist based on conditions and activity. A three-colour LED interface allows riders to obtain information and manage settings while riding. Both models feature suspension from RockShox, Shimano shifter and derailers, Magura brakes and Maxxis tubeless tires.

The YDX-MORO 05 retails for $6,999 and the YDX-MORO 07 with enhanced suspension components will sell for $8,299. Prices include freight, assembly and fitment.

The MORO eBikes are available in three sizes (small, medium and large) and come with a three-year warranty on all Yamaha components and a one-year warranty on supplier sourced parts. IM

The Rally in the Rockies Returns for 2023

Calgary Harley-Davidson will once again be hosting The Rally in the Rockies in 2023. Festivities will get underway on August 23 with a bike night at Big Sky BBQ in nearby Okotoks and run through to August 27. Featuring rides through the spectacular Canadian Rockies, a vendor village, poker runs, fashion shows, show and shines, DJs and live music, The Rally in the Rockies attracts enthusiasts and riders of all brands from across the country and the US. Other returning favourites include a bike night at the Bomber Command Museum in Nanton, AB and the always popular CHD tug-of-war contest .

In addition to demo rides of the latest Harley-Davidson models at the dealership’s Calgary location, this year’s event will include a second Harley-Davidson Canada demo truck, which will be located in the heart of the Rockies in Kananaskis providing Pan America demo rides. Also new for the 2023 edition of The Rally in the Rockies, Fender Guitars will be sponsoring a Battle of the Bands contest. To register and for additional information visit www.therallyintherockies.com. IM

Barnes Garage Co. Acquires Blackfoot Motosports

Effective March 1, 2023

Calgary’s Blackfoot Motosports has new owners following the acquisition of the multi-brand powersports dealership by Barnes Garage Co.

Established in 1970, Blackfoot Motosports is a leading retailer of motorcycles from BMW Motorrad, Ducati, KTM, Triumph, Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki and Suzuki as well as eBikes, power equipment, ATVs and side-by-sides. Blackfoot also offers complete lineups of gear, accessories and parts at its Calgary location as well as online sales.

A press release issued by Barnes Garage Co. stated that the new dealership, now known as Barnes Powersports Blackfoot will retain all existing brands, management, employees and distribution networks.

With the Blackfoot acquisition, Barnes Garage Co. now offers 14 premium brands in seven locations across British Columbia and Alberta.

Visit www.barnesgarageco.com and www.blackfootonline.ca for additional information. IM

Westjet to Offer Motorcycle Shipments

Prior to the spring of 2020, motorcyclists in search of overseas motorcycle adventures had the option of shipping their own bike to their final destination utilizing an Air Canada service that was specifically designed to accommodate motorcycles. Unfortunately, this service was discontinued during the COVID-19 Pandemic and has not been resumed.

Fortunately, according to Westjet’s social media channels, the Calgary-based carrier will be stepping in to fill this void, offering the ability to ship motorcycles to multiple destinations including Heathrow and Gatwick airports in London.

Stay tuned to www.westjetcargo.com for further updates as they become available. IM

Motovan Expands Apparel Lineup

Motovan’s portfolio of apparel and motorcycle gear has expanded with the announcement that it will be the exclusive Canadian distributor for Noru.

Founded in 2020, Noru’s lineup of gloves, boots and apparel has quickly gained market share in the US market and the team at Motovan has expressed confidence that they can replicate this success in Canada.

“We’re very happy to be representing Noru in Canada and helping this brand grow in our market,” said Mike Paladino, VP Motovan. Adding, “Even with established brands, Noru has become the fastest growing apparel brand in the USA and we’re looking forward to replicating that same success in Canada.”

For more information on Noru and the complete line of products available from Motovan, visit www.motovan.com. IM

BMW Motorrad Canada Partners with Ride For Dad

BMW Motorrad Canada has announced a new partnership with Ride for Dad to assist in the charity’s efforts to raise funds and awareness in the fight against prostate cancer.

As part of this partnership local BMW Motorrad dealers will work with regional Ride For Dad chapters to promote events and increase participation. Riders who have raised more than $1,000 for Ride For Dad will be eligible to receive discounts on the purchase of new BMW motorcycles. In addition anyone who raises more than $200 will have the opportunity to win a new BMW R 18 B donated by BMW Motorrad Canada.

Ride For Dad events are scheduled throughout Canada for 2023. To find a ride near you, visit www.ridefordad.ca/find-a-ride/. IM

Undiscovered Alberta

Loved your touring article on Lacombe, AB in Mar/Apr ‘23 IM.

You captured the essence of this neat town.

Regards, Stewart McColl, Calgary, AB

Hi Stewart, it’s great to hear from you. Glad you enjoyed our feature on Lacombe. After living in Alberta for more than 30 years it still amazes me that we can find these untapped gems. – Ed. IM

Greetings from Mirko Zanzani

Hi Graham

Thank you for the magazines and for your beautiful letter.

All the very best, Mirko Zanzani

Mirko was a key source of information and photos for Graham Clayton’s Rapid Classics story on the history of the Motobi championship winning motorcycles and the role that Mirko’s father Primo Zanzani played in the creation of these legendary machines. Mirko was kind enough to send back a photo of the copy of IM that Graham sent him. – Ed. IM

Small-displacement motorcycles headlined the May 2013 issue of Inside Motorcycles. In addition to improved fuel efficiency, affordable insurance and a reduced carbon footprint, sub-500 cc motorcycles introduced in 2013, including the Kawasaki Ninja 300 and Honda CRF250L featured on the cover 10 years ago, also included features and performance targeted at experienced riders. Jumping back to the present in 2023, the trend of combining small-displacement with big performance is hotter than ever as highlighted by the introduction of Kawasaki’s Ninja ZX-4R and Ninja ZX-4RR, both of which are already sought after trackday machines. Watch for IM’s review of the all-new Ninja ZX-4RR in an upcoming issue.

Vintage road racing was featured in the May 2013 issue as well, with a look at a number of Ducati motorcycles getting a new lease on life and a return to the racetrack with the Vintage Road Racing Association. The VRRA continues as strong as ever in 2023, with a four round schedule and expanded number of classes. For more VRRA content, turn to page 40 of this issue for a profile of Patrick Svilans who is campaigning a Aermacchi Sprint this season. For those who want to learn more about the Aermacchi brand and its Harley-Davidson connection, Graham Clayton’s Rapid Classics is waiting for you on page 68.

One of the most notable items in the May 2013 issue was the arrival of Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Famer and member of one of Canada’s most famous motorcycle families, Toni Sharpless as a regular columnist and feature writer. It is a true honour to have Toni as part of the IM team. You can read the latest instalment of The Sharp Edge on page 18. IM

CKX Atlas Adventure Helmet

By Patrick Lambie

Adventure riding continues to be a significant source of growth within the motorcycle industry, including gear and accessories. As part of this trend, Kimpex house brand CKX has unveiled the Atlas adventure helmet. Intrigued by the company’s comments that the Atlas had been designed with a goal of maximum versatility and function, I stepped up and volunteered to test this new helmet on a scheduled dual sport tour through British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley.

Out of the box, first impression is that the unique styling of this helmet would easily allow you to pass for a character in a game of Halo. However, once it was on, it feels as comfortable as any other adventure helmet I own. The Atlas’ fibreglass shell comes in three sizes, which allows for a good fit regardless of where your head is on the XS to 3XL size chart. At 1,700 grams, the Atlas is in a similar weight class as other adventure helmets on the market and the matte finish is of an equally comparable quality. The available carbon fibre shell version reduces weight by 100 grams.

The Atlas incorporates the typical adventure-style peak, but also takes it to a new level of versatility. In addition to a design that provides maximum airflow and limits lift at high speed, the peak can be adjusted up and down, and extended with a single hand. For long stretches of highway riding the peak can also be removed and replaced without tools. I didn’t have a need to remove the peak, but did utilize all of the available adjustments, which were easily accomplished without having to stop riding.

The CKX Atlas is available with multiple lens options including clear and smoked as well as Pinlock lenses and a photochromic lens which adjusts automatically as lighting changes. Switching the visor utilizes the same release mechanism as the peak and requires no tools. The large eye opening provided unrestricted peripheral visibility and also accommodates the use of goggles, including the CKX 210 goggles which attach to the helmet with CKX rapid-click system.

The five adjustable air vents proved to be quite efficient keeping things cool, even as the temperature moved into the high end of the 20s. For those who desire even more ventilation, the muzzle section can be opened and removed, exposing a grill which provides additional airflow.

On the housekeeping front, the liner and cheek pads are removable and washable, which is a must have option in helmets that will be used for high intensity activities such as off-road riding. In place of the traditional D-ring strap setup, the Atlas relies on a ProClip quick release mechanism. While it works fine, I did find myself wishing for a D-ring instead. A very minor complaint on an overall well-done package.

The CKX Atlas has a reasonable starting retail price $449.99 and is available in a wide variety of patterns and colour schemes. Visit www.ckxgear.com complete details.

MSRP: $449.99

Sizes: XS to 3XL

Pros

– Adjustable peak adds versatility

– Solid ADV helmet at an affordable price

Maxima Racing Oils Air Filter Maintenance Combo Kit

The Air Filter Maintenance Combo Kit is the convenient way to clean and oil your foam or fabric air filter with ease. The two pack contains: Air Filter Cleaner aerosol spray and Fab-1 spray-on air filter oil. Air Filter Cleaner is a heavy-duty emulsion-type cleaner designed to thoroughly clean air filters without damaging foam cells, paper or glue. Air Filter Cleaner will remove oil and dirt from air filter elements and easily washes out with water. Fab-1 spray-on synthetic air filter oil provides unequaled protection against the elements. Fab-1’s time proven formula will not plug foam cells or migrate off of filters. Fab-1’s protective coating catches dirt and fine dust without restricting airflow. Water-resistant.

MSRP: $23.99

Cons

– Unique styling may not be for everyone

– Prefer to have a D-ring strap