KIWI RIDER MAGAZINE APRIL 2016

AFRICA TWIN 1000

SOUTH ISLAND LAUNCH REPORT

2016 HONDA CRF250R TWEAKED. TUNED. REFINED.

MOTORCYCLE MAGAZINE APRIL 2016

SINCE 1984

 

HONDA AFRICA TWIN SUZUK DL650XT V-STROM YAMAHA TENERE BMW F800GS ADVENTURE YAMAHA YZ450FX HONDA CRF250R

SUZUKI DL650XT V-STROM YAMAHA XT660Z TENERE BMW F800GS ADVENTURE

   

$10 INCL GST

DESTINATION HANMER SPRINGS • ALASKA BY BMW • BACKROAD BALI TZ 350 AT THE LEAD FOOT FESTIVAL • NZ MX CHAMPS • PAEROA STREET RACES APRIL 2016

SLOAN FROST NZ Suzuki Series Championship

TOBY SUMMERS NZ Supersport 600 Championship

JADEN HASSAN NZ Superbike 2015 Champion DENNIS CHARLETT NZ Superbike Championship

LINDEN MAGEE (Aus) NZ Superbike Championship

DILLON TELFORD NZ Superbike Championship

JAMES HOOGENBOEZEM NZ Supersport 600 Championship

New Zealand’s top Road Racers all chose h RS LLeather Suits for their safety and good looks at affordable prices.

RST $1495

$795

1.1-1.3 mm premium grade, full grain a drum dyed Brazilian cow-hide. and Hydration Race hump.

CP-X Carbon shoulder and knee protection.

Maurex C.E. Approved armour to s shoulders, elbows and knees.

Aramid Fibre stretch panels used throughout.

RST racing compound knee sliders.

Chamud comfort lining to collar a cuffs. and Triple and double stitched seams using 40’s grade bonded nylon thread f maximum burst strength. for YKK zips throughout.

Perforated panels and Airtex lining for f hot weather comfort.

RST profile sports fit: designed to be c comfortable and easy to move around in w when on the bike in any situation.

Full grain 1.1-1.3mm cowhide: soft and s supple whilst retaining excellent abrasion a tear resistance properties. and Triple and double stitched seams: all s seams are stitched using super-strong b bonded nylon for maximum burst r resistance.

Contour Plus CE armour to knees, s shoulders and elbows with pockets for o optional hip armour and optional back p protector.

Sports styling with mid size race hump a sports collar and cuffs. and Full length 4-way stretch panels: for f maximum mobility and enhanced e ergonomics.

S SIZES 38/XS - 48/2XL COLOURS RED/WHITE/BLACK, C BLUE/WHITE/BLACK, G GUNMETAL/WHITE/BLACK

38/XS - 50 /3XL BLACK/WHITE/RED, B BLACK/WHITE/BLUE, B BLACK/WHITE, BLACK

LEATHER JACKET & PANTS

LEATHER JACKET & PANTS JACKET

$498

JACKET

JACKET

$379

$469

PANTS

$369

RST profile sports-street fit: designed to be comfortable and easy to move around in when on the bike in any situation.

Full grain 1.1-1.3Mm cowhide: soft and supple whilst retaining excellent abrasion and tear resistance properties.

Triple and double stitched seams: all seams are stitched using super-strong bonded nylon for maximum burst resistance.

Contour Plus Level 1 Back Protector fitted as standard, with Contour Plus CE armour to knees, shoulders and elbows with pockets for optional hip armour.

Removable thermal fleece vest, keeping you comfortable throughout the seasons.

Full length jacket that can be worn on its own, or matched with any pants in the RST range.

RST Profile street fit: designed to be co comfortable and easy to move around in w when on the bike in any situation.

Full grain 1.1-1.3mm cowhide: soft and su supple whilst retaining excellent abrasion a tear resistance properties. and Triple & double stitched seams: all seams a stitched using super-strong bonded are n nylon for maximum burst resistance.

Contour Plus CE armour to knees, s shoulders and elbows with pockets for o optional hip armour and back protector.

Full length jacket that can be worn on it own, or matched with any pants in the its R range.

RST No-knee slider pants that can zip into any R jacket.

RST

SIZES JACKET 38/XS - 54/5XL PANTS 28/XS - 44/5XL COLOURS BLACK/WHITE, BLACK (SHORT LEG AVAILABLE IN BLACK)

SIZES JACKET 40/SM - 54/5XL S PANTS 30/SM - 40/3XL BLACK/WHITE, BLACK

LEATHER JACKET & PANTS

$429

PANTS

PANTS

$349

RST profile street fit: designed to look c and be comfortable both on and cool o the bike. off Aniline 1.2-1.3Mm matt finish c cowhide: soft and supple whilst r retaining excellent abrasion and tear r resistance properties.

Triple & double stitched seams: all s seams are stitched using super-strong b bonded nylon for maximum burst r resistance.

Contour Plus CE armour to knees, s shoulders and elbows with pockets for o optional hip armour and back protector.

All leather construction with soft l leather collar and cuffs.

Semi straight cut leg, with space at t calf to be worn over touring/retro the s style boots.

SIZES JACKET 40/SM - 56/6XL S PANTS 30/SM - 46/6XL BLACK

LADIES COLLECTION CO COL COLL C O ECTION LADIES LEATHER JACKET & PANTS

JACKET

$469

PANTS

$389

RST profile ladies specific street fit: designed to look cool and be co comfortable both on and off the bike.

Aniline 0.9-1.1mm cowhide: s su super-soft and supple whilst re retaining excellent abrasion and tear re resistance properties.

Triple and double stitched seams: a seams are stitched using superall st strong bonded nylon for maximum b burst resistance.

Contour Plus CE armour to knees, sh shoulders and elbows with pockets fo optional hip armour and back for p protector.

Large 4-way stretch panels for co comfortable and ergonomic fit, whilst ree retaining a flattering look.

Adjustable lower zips and w waist band.

SIZES JACKET 08 - 20 S PANTS 08 - 20 BLACK

BLACK/WHITE

LEATHER JACKET

$499

BLACK

$449

RST profile race fit: specifically designed to be comfortable & easy on sports bikes with an aggressive riding position.

Full grain 1.1-1.3mm cowhide: soft and supple whilst retaining excellent abrasion and tear resistance properties.

Triple & double stitched seams: all seams are stitched using super-strong bonded nylon for maximum burst resistance.

Contour plus level 1 back protector fitted as standard, with Contour Plus CE armour to shoulders and elbows.

CPX-C carbon shoulder external sliders, with a lower coefficient of friction to dissipate and redirect impact forces.

Large ventilated panels & removable thermal vest for all season comfort.

SIZES 38/XS - 54/5XL COLOURS BLACK/WHITE, BLACK

TEXTILE JACKET & PANTS

TEXTILE JACKET & PANTS JACKET

$429

PANTS

$399

PANTS

$289

$219

RST profile touring fit: a ¾ length jacket with multiple a adjustment points to tailor the fit to suit your needs, m matched with tailored jeans for comfort on and off the bike.

Hi-Tex and Ballistic 1660 construction, with a Sinaqua waterproof breathable membrane and a removable quilted w full fu length thermal lining.

Triple and double stitched seams: all seams are stitched using super-strong bonded nylon for maximum burst u rre resistance.

Contour Plus Level 1 back protector fitted as standard, with w Contour Plus CE armour to knees, shoulders and e elbows with pockets for optional hip armour.

Reflective panels and piping for maximum visibility to other road users in the dark. o Adjustable intake and exhaust vents and a removable throat coat to make the jacket/pants customised depending th on o the conditions.

RST profile sports-street fit: designed to be coo comfortable and easy to move around when on the bi in any situation. bi bike Ballistic 1660 and Maxtex construction, with a Sinaqua waterproof breathable membrane and a Si removable quilted thermal lining. re re Triple and double stitched seams: all seams are arr stitched using super-strong bonded nylon for maximum burst resistance. m Contour Plus Level 1 back protector fitted as standard, with Contour Plus CE armour to knees, st sh shoulders and elbows with pockets for optional hip ar armour.

Reflective panels and piping for maximum visibility to other road users in the dark.

Full length jacket that can be worn on its own, or m matched with any pants in the RST range.

JACKET 40/SM - 54/5XL PANTS 30/SM - 40/3XL BLACK/FLURO YELLOW, BLACK/GUNMETAL (S (SHORT LEG AVAILABLE IN BLACK)

JACKET 38/XS - 56/5XL PANTS 30/SM - 42/4XL BLACK/WHITE, BLACK (S (SHORT LEG AVAILABLE IN BLACK)

TEXTILE JACKET & PANTS TE T JACKET

JACKET

$269

LADIES COLLECTION C CO COLL ECTION

TEXTILE T TEXT TIL JACKET & PANTS

TEXTILE JACKET & PANTS

PANTS

PANTS

JACKET

$149

$199

RST profile adventure fit: a specific fit for upright adventure and touring style bikes uup Cordura 500d and Ballistic 1660 construction, with a removable Sinaqua cco wa w waterproof breathable membrane and a rre removable quilted thermal lining Triple and double stitched seams: all sse seams are stitched using super-strong bbo bonded nylon for maximum burst resistance Contour plus level 1 back protector fitted aas standard, with contour plus CE armour to kknees, shoulders and elbows with pockets ffor optional hip armour Large adjustable vented panels to the c chest with long zipped vents up the arms p large rear exhaust vents and zipped plus p panels on the jeans A water bottle pocket, removable map pocket that converts into a bum-bag and p detachable throat coat give the adventure d m maximum versatility.

$249

RST profile ladies specific touring fit: comfortable for hours on the bike, with w subtle feminine styling.

Ballistic 1660 and Maxtex construction, with a Sinaqua c waterproof breathable membrane w and a a removable thermal lining.

Triple and double stitched seams: all a seams are stitched using superstrong bonded nylon for maximum s b burst resistance.

Contour Plus CE armour to shoulders, elbows and knees with s p pockets for optional back protector a hip armour. and Reflective panels and piping for m maximum visibility to other road u users in the dark.

Pants available with a heavy duty c connection zip to match the jacket.

600D Polyester and 16 1680D Nylon outer shell.

SINAQUA water- proof and an breathable membrane.

Fixed 75g heat sealed, q quilted lining.

RST ‘Contour’ plus CE C approved armour to shoulders, elbows and sh kn knees.

‘Scotchlite’ reflex panels.

Adjustable waist- band an arm adjusters. and Four large outer pockets and an two large inner po pockets.

Zip free ‘Comfort cuff’.

Max zips used t th throughout.

SIZES JACKET 40/SM - 52/4XL S PANTS 30/SM - 42/4XL COLOUR BLACK CO

SIZES JACKET 40/SM - 52/4XL S PANTS 30/SM - 42/4XL COLOUR BLACK

PANTS

$199

JACKET 08 - 20 PANTS 08 - 20 BLACK (SHORT LEG AVAILABLE) LADIES C OLLECTION COLLECTION

TEXTILE JACKET

$449

RST profile sports-street fit: designed to be comfortable and easy to move around when on the bike in any situation.

Hi-Tex, Ballistic 1660 and K492 mesh construction, with a removable Sinaqua waterproof breathable membrane and a removable quilted thermal lining.

Triple and double stitched seams: all seams are stitched using super-strong bonded nylon for maximum burst resistance.

Contour plus level 1 back protector fitted as standard, with Contour Plus CE armour to shoulders and elbows.

Multiple adjustment points to maintain the same level of comfort whichever way you decide to wear the Ventilator.

Reflective panels and piping for maximum visibility to other road users in the dark.

SIZES 40/SM - 54/5XL COLOUR BLACK

TEXTILE JACKET

$299

MAXTEX 600d Polyester and BALLISTIC 1680d Nylon outer shell.

SINAQUA waterproof and breathable membrane.

Removable 75g quilted lining.

RST Contour Plus CE approved armour to shoulders and elbows.

Pocket for RST Contour Plus back protector.

Multiple adjustment points.

Hi-Viz reflective panels and piping.

MAX zips used throughout.

360 heavy duty connection zip.

Multiple external and internal pockets.

Zipped air vents.

Soft touring collar.

LADIES TEXTILE JACKET

SIZES 08 - 20 COLOURS SILVER,SLATE, BLACK

SIZES 40/SM - 54/5XL COLOUR BLACK

IN PREMIUM MOTORCYCLE APPAREL! www.rst-moto.com

$269

RST profile ladies specific urban fit: designed to be worn in the city both on and off the bike.

Brushed 300D polyester construction, with a Sinaqua waterproof breathable membrane and a removable thermal lining.

Triple and double stitched seams: all seams are stitched using super-strong bonded nylon for maximum burst resistance.

Contour Plus CE armour to shoulders and elbows with pocket for optional back protector.

Detachable hood.

Multiple adjustment points for maximum comfort.

Order Online @ www.nwa.co.nz

The

ROAD Top Product Awards

GUIDE

www.roadguide.co.nz

209

$

$

239

X - FIVE WATERPROOF

TRAVEL MASTER SADDLE BAGS - SLANT

The Travel Master Slant Box Style Lid Saddle Bags (available either plain or studded) Classic chrome buckle design, yet opens & closes easily with simple lockable clip system. Slant plain $199rrp. Slant Studded $209rrp.

249

$

TRAVEL MASTER HIGHWAY SISSY BAR BAG

USUALLY $349

TCX X - FIVE WATERPROOF A quality TCX boot at a very affordable price with performance and features to match the TCX brand. The X - FIVE features: Comfort Fit System (CFS), Waterproof, Upper: full grain leather. Lining: Waterproof. Protections; Anti Impact malleolous protection, shift pad, shin plate, reinforced heel counter. Foot Bed; anatomic and replaceable. Sole; Touring sole with specific grip area. Colour; Black. Size Range; 36 to 48. $349rrp. #TCX-7102W-size

The Travel Master Highway Sissy Bar Bag Classic chrome buckle design, yet opens and closes easily with simple clip system (main compartment) Main Body Compartment – 42cm Long x 25cm Wide x 38cm High. Top Roll - 41cm Long x 23cm Wide x 23cm. $239rrp.

VECTOR 2 ARAI VECTOR 2 Snell M2010 + AS1698 approved New fully-removable liner - New chinvent design = more ow - New Hyper-Ridge design adds reinforcement to the bottom of the shell - New oversize front intake vent + larger side exhaust ports to increase airow - New wider eyeport features the same extremely-wide peripheral view of Arai's top-of-the-line. Complex laminate construction (CLC) strong and lightweight - New ACR-2 rear exhaust vent/wing combo - Arai's unique single-piece multi-density hybrid - EPS inner liner - Slim, oval outer shell with lower centre of gravity - New micro-tting cheek pad and temple pad – the incredible feature of the 5mm peel away cheekpad layer, is now standard on the Vector 2. - The Vector 2 is the rst model to incorporate 5mm peel away temple pads also for a more custom t to your head shape.

#AH-29FBK size VECTOR 2 BLACK FROST $

#AH-29BWH size VECTOR 2 BASE WHITE

649

$

$

649

$

649

749

#AH-29IF size VECTOR 2 ITALY FLAG

#AH-29BK size VECTOR 2 GLOSS BLACK

#AH-29WH size VECTOR 2 WHITE $

749

#AH-29BLS size VECTOR 2 BLOSSOM FROST

$

749

#AH-29P size VECTOR 2 PARKES $

749

#AH-29E1 size VECTOR 2 EDWARDS $

749

RJAYS BANDIT SUMMER The RJays BANDIT glove is a stylishly designed summer vented glove. Ergonomically constructed to provide ease of movement and lack of restriction whilst riding.

Features; 100% Genuine Leather.

- Perforated Leather on Topside of Hand To Wrist & Underside of Fingers. - Double Stitched Gripper Padding on Palm. - Four Panel Finger Construction Allows Unrestricted Movement. Aluminium Air Mesh Flutes on Fingers & Thumb. - Floating Hard Knuckle Allows Ease on Grip Position. - Elasticised Wrist. Great Styling. $79.95rrp.

RJAYS VOYAGER 4 JACKET Polyester 600 denier nylon. Removable CE approved elbow and shoulder armour. Removable CE approved back protector. Elastic Stretch panels at elbows and back of shoulders. Power Skin Membrane -100% Waterproof and 100% Breathable. Removable quilted liner. Reflective material. Waterproof zippered air vents. Adjustable waist and arms, and zip and velcro cuffs. Zip to pants feature. Available in Mens and Womens $239rrp. Mens Fluro Yellow/ Black and Black/Black. Mens Stout Jackets $249rrp

MENS & WOMENS BLACK/BLACK

$ FROM

MENS FLURO YELLOW/BLACK

239

rrp

MENS PURSUIT 3 VENTED Our air vented leather Pursuit III Glove has been re-modelled with even more perforations to be an even cooler summer glove. Features: 100% leather, Fully ventilated perforated leather construction. High Density moulded hard knuckle protection. Dual layered leather palms. Dual stitched in palms. New Velcro wrist closure. Sizes: XS-3XL. $89.95rrp.

The

Dirt 09

www.dirtguide.co.nz

HOT PRODUCTS

Guide

STARCROSS 5

HELMET SERIES 3

Y

PEE WEE YOUTH & ADULT SIZES

169

SELECTED GRAPHICS

$

Michelin has launched the new Starcross 5 range of motocross tyres following an extensive three-year testing and development program with riders of all levels, from world championship riders, to amateur racers.

The Michelin Starcross 5 range breaks new ground for Michelin in the world of motocross. Compared to its predecessors (Starcross 3 and 4), the Michelin Starcross 5 range features a new, lighter casing design. The new design offers a weight saving of up to 15%* without compromising strength and durability due to the use of stronger, higher density materials.

Oneal Rider Boot The all new Oneal Rider Boot steps into a class of its own.

Built to the quality of a rst class boot but sold at an entry level price. Now available in a true Pee Wee boot size (Black only). FEATURES; Traditional stitched sole. Durable Construction. - Full adjustable four buckle closure system. - Tough sole with metal shank. - Injection moulded plastic shin plate and protection. - Guards left & right to protect bottom buckle. - Built in heat shield.

Available in Black, White & Pink/Black. $229 rrp.

The more exible casing and aggressive tread pattern also offers a number of other benets for riders: – Improved traction in a straight line and more progressive handling in corners.

– The ability to run higher pressures, to reduce the risk of the tyre coming off the rim, with no loss of grip or comfort.

– No ‘running-in’ needed as the exible casing offers great performance from the starting gate. The new casing has also been engineered to optimise the size of the contact patch.

$

STARCROSS 5 SOFT

229

STARCROSS 5 MEDIUM

M64 Elite Stands

Lightweight injection molded ABS Composite and aluminum stand.

All new ABS composite stand Injection molded from high strength, lightweight glass lled ABS plastic.

Design includes four rectangular anti ex support tubes.

Removable replacable top pad with rectangular access slot for easy oil draining.

Large graphic side panels that can be customized with your name & number.

Bolted together with lock-lited stainless steel fasteners.

Extra wide feet prevents rocking making this design very stable. $179rrp.

179

$

M64 ELITE STAND

Black M64-101

White M64-100

Red M64-102

Blue M64-103

Yellow M64-104

Green M64-105

Orange M64-106

BMW GS RALLYE 2016 RAGLAN PRESENTED BY AD-HOC AND ASSOCIATES LTD.

16th April

Celebrating 35 years of the motorcycle that defines Adventure Riding.

• A dual purpose big bike Rally Saturday 16th April 2016 at Raglan.

• Great roads, stunning scenery, open to all brands.

• Choose your option, gravel, seal, or laid-back adventure route. Courses mapped by John Nicholson. Route sheets and GPS available.

• Knobbly tyres not required – guaranteed no cardiac trail bike sections.



• Test ride new BMW models GS 650, GS 800 and GS 1200 models.

• Iconic GS models on display, from 1980 to the present day.

• Prize draws, BMW genuine accessories and premium tyre draws.

• Ride starts 9.00am Saturday 16th, be in town Friday evening for the GS Bavarian barbeque free to all entrants.

http://www.adventuresnz.com/bmw-gs-rallye.html www.facebook.com/bmwgsrallye

DASHBOARD 12

paeroa street races

16

lead foot festival

24

40

46

69

86

92

APR 16

Fast, frantic and full of thrills, the Paeroa street races let spectators as close to the action as it’s possible to get.

24

Todd had one brief - race a TZ up a bloke’s driveway in the Coromandel...

middleweight adventure

Adventure motorcycles come in all shapes and sizes and these three machines are as diverse as they come.

honda africa twin

Honda sent a dozen Africa Twins to the South Island to be thrashed. We sent our Jock along to do the thrashing.

12 40

Kiwi adventures

46

Hanmer Springs, Bali and Alaska, it seems Kiwis leave no stones unturned in the quest for adventure.

roost zone

There’s been a lot going on this month, not to mention Kiwi Courtney winning the MXGP!

yamaha yz450fx

This must be the final salvo in Yamaha’s armament race - and it’s a big hit!

2016 honda crf250r

Honda’s CRF250R has always been a sweet handler, now it gets the engine the chassis deserves.

86 92 KIWI RIDER

5

Hello...

W EDITOR Ben Wilkins

Contributions: Kiwi Rider welcomes editorial contributions from its readers.

If you would like to write something for KR e-mail a précis to editor@kiwirider. co.nz. Electronic transmission of words (Microsoft Word .doc) and pictures (hi-res jpgs) preferred.

Advertising: Got a hot product or service and want some real bang for your advertising buck? KR offers a complete inhouse advertising design and production service. To find out more talk to: Pete (pete@kiwirider.co.nz) or Todd (todd@kiwirider.co.nz) Published by: McStannic Publishing Ltd Postal Address: P.O. Box 299, Kumeu, Auckland Courier Address: 127 Moire Rd, West Harbour, Auckland.

Phone: 09 416 5307 Fax: 09 416 5308 Publisher: Pete McPhee: 09 416 5307 Email: pete@kiwirider.co.nz sales and Marketing: Pete McPhee 09 416 5307 or 0274 748 675 Email: pete@kiwirider.co.nz Bike Mart adertising: Todd Suther­land: 021 709 989 Design/layout: Marcel Norkia design@kiwirider.co.nz Photographer: Geoff Osborne Ph 09 415 2555 ospics1@xtra.co.nz REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS: Rodney O’Connor, Roger Moroney, Andy McGechan, Ben Townley, Chris Birch, Michael Esdaile, Jock McLauchlan, Sam Greenslade and Racing Dave.

On-line Editor: Marcel Norkia Office manager: Linda Glasswell Printers: PMP Maxum Distribution: Gordon & Gotch Ltd, McStannic Publishing Ltd. Opinions: Opinions expressed in Kiwi Rider are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the publishers accept no liability for any error or omissions contained herein.

Copyright: This magazine is copyright in its entirety. Material may not be printed without the written permission of the publishers. ISSN 1177-0023 Cover image: Geoff Osborne

6

KIWI RIDER

elcome to the April issue of Kiwi Rider. Adventure is the theme this month as it seems Kiwis have been getting out everywhere having adventures both large and small.

In this issue Linda, our office manager, and her husband have been down to the South Island for the BMW Register annual meet up (p46). Jock McLauchlan, the luckiest mag tester out there, has been down to the South Island to put Honda’s new Africa Twin through the wringer on dirt and seal (see p40).

Another couple have been exploring Bali via the backroads away from the tourist traffic for a completely different experience on the

island (p51) and yet another couple have taken their classic BMW on an epic trek through the Alaskan wilderness (p58).

Here at KR we’ve had our own mini-adventure on Yamaha’s Tenere, BMW’s F800GS Adventure and Suzuki’s 650XT V-Strom, which are more capable than most riders might think and offer three very different ways of having an adventure and each will have its own audience. Turn to p24 for more.

Yamaha now has the most complete set of 250 and 450cc dirt bikes to have ever come out of Japan with the launch of its WR450FX crosscountry machine. Tester Mark Whyte rode the bike and came back impressed. See the all-new machine on page 84. BEN WILKINS

OUR NEW DIGITAL MAGAZINE KR REPORT GIVES YOU ALL THE LATEST GRASSROOTS MOTORCYCLING EVENTS NEAR YOU. AND IT’S FREE! TAKE A LOOK HERE... http://bit.ly/21GcXOe

.....................REGULARS.....................

FRONT END 9  NEWS 21  ROAD PRODUCTS Museum collection closing; Saftey rails designed for bike; MNZ Hall of Fame;

BMW GS Rallye bookings open.

Need it, want it, must have it...

ROOST ZONE 69  NEWS

83

 DIRT PRODUCTS

BACK END 98  BIKE MART

109

 CLASSICS

112

 ROGER MORONEY

Cyclone Courtney - Queen of the Desert; MX Nationals; Cross Country; YouTube Gems.

Essential services and products

for you and your bike.

100

 EVENTS CALENDAR

104

 RACE RESULTS

Everything you need to keep you and

your dirt bike in tip-top condition.

Motorcycles have long been associated with

sex and attitude in the movies...

Riding fast is a whole lot of fun, especially

when you’re giving away 100cc and

two cylinders to the guy in front of you.

MotoGP, WSS Championships.

NEXT ISSUE OF KIWI RIDER MAGAZINE GOES ON SALE MONDAY 11 APRIL

All good things come in fours, first was the S1000RR along with the HP4 Superbike, then the S1000R roadster. Now BMW Motorrad brings you the new name in adventure sport riding.

$29,990rrp The S1000XR with Electronically controlled suspension system, Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) for optimum adaptation to the prevailing conditions. Automatic Stability Control (ASC). Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) with banking sensor for supreme performance and active riding when accelerating. Gear Shift Assist Pro for clutchless upshifting and downshifting. ABS Pro. Innovative technology, performance and safety, check out the new S1000XR at your local BMW Motorrad Dealer.

Cyclespot Euro Takapuna Auckland 09 486 1136

Experience Motorcycles Kingsland, Auckland 09 845 5950

Boyd Motorcycles Hamilton 07 838 1209

Mount Motorcycles Mount Maunganui 07 575 4190

Motomart Wellington 04 589 5106

Avon City Motorcycles Christchurch 03 341 3490

$14,990*

$16,990*

Now the America has a free gift of a genuine Triumph passenger back rest valued at $700 and the America LT comes with free genuine Triumph accessory exhaust pipes valued at $1,000

* price includes GST but not On Road Costs - offer includes fitting by an Authorised Triumph Dealer and ends 28 February 2016 or while stock lasts

www.triumphmotorcycles.co.nz

MORE FORGIVING SAFETY RAILS A GAME CHANGER

M

otorcyclists may not have been top of mind when roadside barriers were originally designed, but recent safety improvements made on the Coromandel loop will make some barriers more rider friendly.

Under-run barriers have been added to the existing roadside barriers along a 130km stretch of road that passes through Kopu, Whangamata, Waihi and Paeroa.

The new safety rails have been designed to help protect fallen riders from direct impact with guardrail posts. Mark Gilbert, Chair of the Motorcycle Safety Advisory Council (MSAC), says the barriers are no panacea but do bring a real improvement.

“Hit any roadside object fast enough and you are going to get hurt or worse. But research shows the new barriers reduce the severity of crashes and are better for riders than hitting poles or trees.”

The rails are the latest in a range of safety improvements made to this 130km stretch of highway under the Safer Rides motorcycle safety project – a multiagency effort to improve the devastating crash statistics. From 2009-2013,

motorcyclists were involved in 42% of the fatal and serious crashes in this area, although they make up just two percent of those driving it.

It’s the first time the rails have been used on New Zealand roads and were funded through the Motorcycle Safety Levy (MSL). The safety rails have been installed at 19 sites along the popular scenic route in the Coromandel, mainly on high-risk corners.

With MSAC having been closely involved in the project, Mark Gilbert, himself a keen rider, says they are always pleased to see any gains in safety for riders.

“MSAC represents motorcyclists, recommending to ACC and ensuring the motorcycle levy is used on initiatives that will make it safer for motorcyclists in New Zealand. Making our roads and roadsides as motorcyclist-friendly as is possible, is always a top priority for us.”

Before under-run barriers

After under-run barriers installed

GETTING MOTORCYCLISTS TOP OF MIND IN ROAD DESIGN

I

t’s something MSAC and the NZ Transport Agency feel strongly about, taking to the road themselves in 2015 in a joint nationwide seminar series called ‘Making Roads Motorcycle Friendly’. Kenn Beer, a world leader in motorcycle safety infrastructure, fronted the seminars and roadside barriers was top of the agenda.

The message was clear: riders still have to be skilled and responsible, but the more motorcycle friendly the road, the more survivable the crashes and the more lives are saved.

Their mission was to remind roading professionals to keep the motorcyclist view of the road top of mind with road design, planning and maintenance for New Zealand roads.

“There are decisions you make as roading professionals that can help keep more riders on their bikes”, said Mark Gilbert when addressing the audience of roading professionals. “And if they do crash, you can also help create a more forgiving roadside environment so that they walk away rather than get carried away.”

LAST CHANCE TO SEE STUNNING CLASSIC COLLECTION

N

Z Classic Motorcycles, the wonderful museum of bikes from 1910 to the current day based in Nelson, has announced that the collection will return to being a private collection. NZ Classic Motorcycles has released the following statement; To our valued clients and supporters. NZ Classic Motorcycles will revert to a private collection from 30 April. As we all move into a new future, the staff understand why Tom and Heather seek to simplify their lives and streamline their business interests both in NZ and US. All of us at NZ Classic Motorcycles are no exception in their considerations. As an associate

and friend who has been a lot closer to NZ Classic Motorcycles than many, we wish to take this opportunity to extend a heartfelt note of personal thanks to those who have made a significant contribution in creating what is an outstanding facility which fairly portrays Tom and Heatherʼs vision. Your part in this has been welcome and appreciated. Once again, thank you for the role you played in the unqualified success of NZCM. Yours in Motorcycling, John Shand (Operations Manager) and Ingrid Penfold

(Marketing and Promotions Manager). Your last chance to see this multi-million dollar collection of motorcycles will be April 30, 2016. Get along while you still can.

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As a Festival of Speed in the southern hemisphere, Todd Sutherland went along to the Leadfoot Festival to race a TZ up a driveway.

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ultiple national rally champion Rod Millen and his wife Shelly run the Leadfoot Festival event on their Coromandel property each year. This year KR sent Todd Sutherland along to see what all the fuss is about.

Millen is perhaps most famous for his 13-year reign as the fastest man up the ‘Pikes Peak’ hillclimb course in the United States. Retired, but still incredibly quick, the Millen’s decided to run a hillclimb of their own.

The annual event they run up their sealed driveway is something of a festival affair. Everyone is asked to dress in 1930-70s garb, bring a blanket, wander the hills of the Millen property and soak up the enthusiast atmosphere as competitors race, slide, scream, smoke and, occasionally plod, up the twisting course.

Real estate man Mike Pero and I talked the dedicated Helicraft team of Rod Price and Peter Donaldson into bringing the classic 1980s Yamaha TZs along, all the way from the bottom of the south island. I even went as far as to convince my family that it would make a good weekend away. With the tented hospitality, professionally set-up pit area, trade displays and acres of space for the kids to run, it did prove to be the most family friendly of motorsports events.

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KIWI RIDER

Words: Todd Sutherland Photos: Peter Donaldson, Todd Sutherland

There were only eight of us motorcyclists. Three or four supermotard machines made up the largest chunk of machinery for the relatively slow, tight, inconsistently surfaced track (the seal was fine, knowing what the cars had dragged onto the surface was another matter). The ‘motards were better suited to the terrain and were ridden considerably faster than the rest of us managed.

My first (wet) run verged on the comical. Having only been up the course twice before, I ‘forgot’ sections (rolling the throttle off when I needed to be winding it on?) and found myself abusing the clutch just to get out of the turns and climb the hill. The 1.6km course proved itself far removed from the grand prix circuits our machines were designed for. Though Mike and I didn’t expect to be competitive, much less win it, we weren’t out to make complete fools of ourselves either. Mercifully most of the remaining sessions were drier, but that first slow run came as a bit of a shock.

On a brighter note, walking around the pits was but one of the highlights. Our own pit had Honda Counties’ Brendan Price on an oval piston Honda NR750, Ian Ffitch on his rapid GSX-R1000 powered superquad, Bill Buckley on a Egli Vincent and keeping it real, young Sharn Steadman on a KTM250 with road tyres. The car pits were teeming with almost everything capable of climbing

Medals up for grabs

less Southern Man Darcy Prendergast proved fear the hill up clist orcy in the final run, the quickest mot

the hill on display and competing. One of my favourites was the Suzuki Hayabusa-powered Toyota Starlet. Then there were special hillclimb cars, rally cross, rally, speedway, Nascar, touring, drift, hotrod, and a bunch more besides.

Back on track, Mad Mike Widdell was there making a hell of a racket in his drift car. Breaking a diff (what a surprise) and spilling a little oil just before our session, didn’t manage to excite us much. My second run was much better on the largely dry track,

The pits have a classic vibe

though I got sprung having to turn the gas on half way up by the commentator. Not that it made much difference as I was still struggling knowing where I was on the quicker sections.

Bike parked again, I could take in more of the atmosphere. One of my favourite sights was that of Scott Dixon driving the 1906 Darraq in his modern race gear. Like a novice, looking down to change gear as he bobbed up and down as if on a tractor, then returning his focus back to the course, concentrating so as to

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Words: Ben Wilkins / Photos: Geoff Osborne, Eve Lawrence

An adventure ride is in the eye of the beholder. These three bikes go about adventure in their own specific ways and it’s unlikely more than one will suit any given rider but at least one will suit most pockets.

BELLS AND WHISTLES: BMW F800GS ADVENTURE Engine: 799cc, parallel twin Range: 508km Fuel capacity: 24 litres Weight: 229kg Fuel economy: 21.2km/l Price: $21,990

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YAMAHA XT660Z TENERE

his bike just straight looks the part. The Tenere sits on tall, bouncy suspension, sports an almost vertical screen and a colour-scheme designed to hide the dirt.

This is unmistakably a Dakar Rally replica and just makes me want to go and explore everywhere – twisty tar seal roads, gravel roads, dirt tracks, the lot.

But first let’s get one thing straight. Single cylinder bikes do not make good high-speed cruisers/tourers.

If you’re going to buy a single, understand that either you have to be happy at the 100km/h speed limit (or 10km/h over) or happy with buzzy hands. No such problems for your feet though, the Tenere has removable rubber footpeg inserts which keep the vibes away on the road and can be taken out for more grip when the going gets muddy or wet. This particular bike had been used on the Yamaha Southern Safari and was kitted out with a few extras including a bashplate and hand guards along with footpegs from its big brother, the Super Tenere. These are a little wider than the standard pegs and didn’t have the vibration damping rubber inserts.

That said, the Tenere’s 660cc four-stroke single-cylinder engine lets the bike cruise comfortably anywhere between 80-120km/h.

There’s good torque available below 5000rpm, and this allied with

the wide bars and commanding riding position make dodging through traffic a doddle although the bars are wide enough to make filtering a hit and miss affair (excuse the pun). Let the revs drop below 2000rpm in town and the chain will slap around until the revs pick up. At speed the bike is happiest above 3000rpm with 4000rpm rushing the Tenere along at 100km/h.

Out of town on twisty roads, the bike feels agile and the engine smooth and punchy with the power picking up well from 5000rpm all the way through to the 7500rpm rev limiter. Even though the engine will push the bike onwards to an eventually indicated 160km/h and a little beyond, it’s pretty vibey at this point. Compared to both of the twin cylinder engines in the BMW and Suzuki, the vibration through the bars is noticeable but It’s just a fact of life on a single cylinder machine such as the Tenere – it’s no worse than any other single-cylinder engine. I’m more than happy to take the trade-off of a more vibey engine to get the instant punch that the Yamaha engine provides. It’s the kind of engine that is perfect on really twisty roads, such as from Harbour Road near Oparau through to Manganui Road near Awakino – giving great punch out of the corners without the need to rev it too highly. That punch is also good for popping the front wheel up over an obstacle or over a ditch.

SIMPLE SINGLE: YAMAHA XT660Z TENERE Engine: 660cc, single Range: 580km Fuel capacity: 23 litres Weight: 206kg Fuel economy: 25.23km/l Price: $16,349

ALL-ROUNDER: SUZUKI DL650XT V-STROM Engine: 645cc v-twin Range: 503km Fuel capacity: 20 litres Weight: 215kg Fuel economy: 25.18km/l Price: $14,995

On twisty back roads the suspension is comfortable for normal riding but lacks enough damping to make swift riding as confident as it could be. The lack of adjustment doesn’t help but with that said, the suspension is on the softer side making it more suited to gravel road comfort rather than fast blasts on tar seal.

The seat is heavily sculpted and there isn’t much space to move backwards or vary the seating position, you’re kind of locked into a single position. This is fine most of the time but on long tarmac stretches, motorways especially springing to mind, the riding position is pretty fixed and I found myself having to stand on the pegs occasionally to get comfortable again. On the whole, I found the Tenere’s seat to be extremely comfortable, it’s just those long slogs. And for those long slogs, the fuel tank gives a huge range.

Holding 23 litres of fuel and sipping it at just over 25km/l, the Tenere has a range (full to empty) of some 580km! Because the tank is wide, the seat is too (adding to the comfort), but it means the bike feels wide when standing (as when riding on gravel), which feels a little odd. Not uncomfortable, just odd. This seat width, along with a tall 895mm seat height makes the Tenere one tall motorcycle. The spec says the Tenere’s seat is only 5mm higher than the GS Adventure’s but it feels a whole load taller.

I have a 32-inch inside leg and found myself on tiptoes. That 23 litre load of fuel makes it feel somewhat top heavy when fully fuelled too.

Twin discs and Brembo calipers give the Tenere a decent amount of braking although it’s not of the same level as the Suzuki and BMW, which both sport anti-lock brakes. In recent years just about every bike we’ve test has featured ABS, so jumping on the Tenere without ABS takes a little recalibrating.

The rear brake is pretty aggressive and needs moderated use if it isn’t going to lock the rear wheel. Wearing off-road style boots compounds the issue.

The five-speed gearbox is fine for the road. The gears are well spaced and fifth gear is tall, making it a great cruising gear. But on the dusty trails, only having five gears hinders. I found second a bit short and third a touch tall. Maybe I should just ride faster?

As an adventure bike, the Tenere can hold its head high. Sure, the suspension could be more sophisticated and the seat a little lower so more riders can fit, but with 21-inch and 17-inch tyres front and rear the Tenere has full access to decent adventure/dirt rubber should your adventure aspirations be more dirt and gravel biased. This is the bike for a rider who likes to take the road or track less travelled and wants to take on some tougher terrain.

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Words: Jock McLauchlan / Photos: Honda NZ

The prodigal son is

back An epic four-day adventure gave Jock McLauchlan the chance to truly test the new Africa Twin’s credentials as an adventure bike.

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lue Wing Honda, in conjunction with Honda Australia, held the Australasian launch of the all new Africa Twin CRF1000L in New Zealand’s South Island. Over four days we rode from Picton, at the head of the South Island, to Queenstown in the deep south via every sketchy back road and mountain pass that could possibly be linked together. I can only describe it as an epic ride and a true adventure.

Yes, this was genuine big bike adventure riding at its very best and I can’t think of a better way to give the new Africa Twin its first serious acid test. I have to admit wondering if the new Africa Twin would live up to Honda’s sales pitch of the bike being a ‘true adventure’ machine? Well, the short answer is yes, absolutely, but I would go further still and say the new Africa Twin is the best multi-cylinder adventure bike on the market now for NZ conditions and by some margin.

This isn’t something I say lightly. I’ve had long days in the saddle on the BMW’s F800GS and 1200GS models (standard and Adventure), Yamaha’s Tenere 1200, the Triumph Explorer/Tiger 1200/800 models and I own a KTM 1190R. They’re all great bikes in their own right and each has its own particular strengths, but none has the poise, chassis balance, light ease of use and lovely power delivery to match the new Honda. However, I’m getting ahead of myself here, let’s dive in to the ride story proper and discover just why I like the big Africa Twin so much.

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Hanmer Springs Summer Adventure Words: Linda Glasswell / Photos: Peter Zink, Linda Glasswell

With the BMW Owners Register Rally as an excuse, Linda Glasswell headed for Hanmer Springs for a big summer ride.

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he bike skittered and skidded over the gravel as the ABS kicked in. I just didn’t see it coming, missed the warning sign somehow. So, two seconds before entry when I saw the ford, I hauled on both brakes, then, whoosh, I hit the water, the bike shaking left and right and left again as it hit the rocks below the surface. A fraction less brake with a fraction more momentum and I would have made it out; oh, and a quick gear change down. Instead, the bike came to a complete stop, in third gear, as I opened the throttle too late, causing the engine to fluff and stall. I pushed down into first, and with the clutch in I thumbed the starter. The GS slowly climbed the small bank to exit, and we were out. Geez!

It wasn’t pretty, but I’d made it.

Hitting that particular ford in the Molesworth on Isolated Flat at a great rate of knots seems reasonably common, apparently. Sharing my story, I was amazed at how many times riders have come across this particular ford so

unexpectedly. And many have come away a lot worse for wear than me.

The forecast for the trip down to the BMW Owners Register Annual Rally in Hanmer Springs was dire for this time of year, and especially disappointing after a long spell of lovely dry summer days; oh well, you have to take what the weather decrees. That first day, heading the longer way down to Palmerston North from Auckland (in one hit), the weather stayed dry until lunch, but after that it steadily got wet and cold. We rode via Runciman, across Tuakau Bridge, onto Onewhero and through the Waikato gravel backroads. We rode out onto the fantastic State Highway 22, and naturally we made the obligatory stop at Boscos in Te Kuiti for lunch, then it was on to Taumaranui with torrential rain, thunder and lightning. We had thought about taking Turakina Valley Road (awesome gravel) but the weather was too nasty. By now the roads were flooding, and the rain heavy, with rivulets of washed out clay running across the road.

The heaters were on full blast in the motel in Palmerston North in an attempt to

dry all our gear. Although our bodies were dry, the outside of our gear was not. And my gloves were sodden. It was now 16°C plus wind chill, I hadn’t been this cold for months.

Thursday entailed a ride the long way round to Wellington, via Pahiatua (the sealed part), on to Rongomai, Dreyers Rock and Route 52. It started off miserably wet, but ended up reasonably dry for the hill ride along the Rimutakas, into Lower Hutt. We even managed a trip to the World War I museum near the Carillion. Getting to the museum tested us, with Wellington’s one-way system conspiring to confuse even the most capable GPS/map reader. Great place, good displays and dioramas, but it left us

feeling very sombre. Those mannequins were incredibly lifelike and were modelled on real people from the accompanying photographs. War is not a glorious thing.

Overcast again the next day, we jampacked ourselves onto the Bluebridge Ferry for the 8am crossing. Not normally a travel sick person, even I felt this may be an ominous crossing. The ferry was so old and so tiny; all the foot traffic got onto the ferry first taking all the seats, so our group of eight had to pack ourselves into a cabin if we wanted to sit together with only a tiny, filthy window to look out of. But the crossing was surprisingly calm, and nearly all the cabins were not only free of charge but empty, we found one with blankets and had a snooze all the way to Picton.

Refreshed, we rode to an overcast and cool Blenheim and after lunch we headed for the Molesworth.

The weather in the valley was superb, putting on a great show, with bright blue skies and not a cloud to be seen.

By the time we headed down Jack’s Pass towards Hanmer by late afternoon, the weather started to close in and we encountered a very dense, cold fog, with visibility nearly zero. Thankfully we arrived safe and well in Hanmer Springs at around 7pm, with my body stiff from exhaustion and cold. We left the sun far behind, experiencing a permanent light drizzle, which persisted all through the next day as well. And it was cool again.

For the Rally, rides were planned on both

the Saturday and Sunday for the GS bikes (gravel), and the road riders. On Saturday I chose the ‘Road Ride’ entitled “North Canterbury Treasures”, a five hour ride, encompassing the Hurunui District, and including the historic Hurunui Hotel. Then we headed to Cheviot and Leader Valley.

We stopped at St John’s Anglican Church with the famous William Norris & Co.’s stained glass windows – a stunning work of art. And Leader Valley; what a fantastic motorcyclist’s road with brilliant corners.

On the Sunday, for a change, I decided on the gravel ride and boy, was it hard work. Every track our entertaining and very experienced guide took us on (thanks Grant H) had been newly graded. Even he was surprised. We crossed the Lowry Hills KIWI RIDER

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Yolande and Peter Clarence spent almost two weeks exploring Bali by motorcycle.

Words: Yolande Clarence / Photos: Angela Bruce

Bali’s not all shops, bars and beaches

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welve days motorbiking in Bali!” exclaimed Belinda*, a rep from work and regular traveller to Bali. “You’ll have seen it all in two or three days, so I don’t know what you’re going to do for the rest of the time,” she added.

It turned out our time in Bali proved just how wrong she was; there was something of interest to see around almost every corner and numerous amazing roads to ride. We covered more than 1300 kilometres, and many of the roads we only set tyres on once.

At the end of our holiday there were still some sections of Bali we hadn’t ridden, but as these were largely main roads and highways, heavily used by trucks and buses, we were happy to avoid them anyway.

The tour we were on is called ‘Bali By The Backroads’, and we covered plenty of back roads plus small lanes, trails, and even the occasional track through a rice paddy. The tour was organised by Mike Britton and Angela Bruce of Britton Adventures. They’ve been coming to Bali for a very long time – more than 25 years, and have travelled there a staggering 35 (give or take) times, they’ve have lost count exactly how many!

Their knowledge and familiarity of the place made the trip for us, and I know that we saw a side of Bali few tourists ever get to experience.

I had been trying to talk my husband Peter into this tour for the last three years but he wasn’t keen. He thought it wouldn’t be

interesting with not enough to see or do, and that the whole trip would be just too tame (i.e. boring). It turns out Peter was to be proven wrong on a daily basis, and repeatedly commented how much he was enjoying the trip!

In addition to the great riding, and the fascinating daily life of the Balinese that we encountered en-route, we ate plenty of delicious food. Every day we were exposed to amazing taste sensations and delectable foodie experiences. Peter and I suggested to Mike and Angela that they should be promoting the tour as much for the food as the riding and cultural encounters.

I would advise anyone on this tour to take clothing with elastic waistbands as we certainly felt like our clothes had shrunk...

Most people who holiday in Bali spend the majority of their holiday in the southern end, in the places you most hear spoken about when Bali is mentioned; Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Sanur, and Nusa Dua. We didn’t even visit these areas apart from a brief ride through the main one-way Kuta/Legian circuit on the last day just to see what everyone was talking about. It was a side of Bali that did not appeal; wall-to-wall shops and bars, and hordes of jandal- and singlet-wearing tourists boozing and shopping.

The famous Kuta Beach was crowded and hidden from the road by a high wall. We didn’t feel that we had missed out by not experiencing this side of Bali, and are confident that we had a much richer Balinese encounter.

The Bali we saw was so much more than bars, shops and beaches. We only went to one temple, Tampak Siring, renowned KIWI RIDER

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Words & photos: Robert Hargreaves

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icture this... you have been planning a touring road trip through British Columbia, the Yukon and South Eastern Alaska for the past nine months, which included shipping your own motorcycle from Auckland to Vancouver. Two months before departure you have to ship your bike. Sitting side-by-side in the shed you have two motorcycles, both manufactured by BMW, both OK on the back roads we would be riding.

Motorcycle number one, a late-model, comfortable, high luggage carrying capacity, powerful, fully optioned - traction control, electronic suspension adjustment, heated grips, ABS, powerful brakes, multiple computer feedback instruments, BMW reliability.

Motorcycle number two, 43-years-old,

40-odd horsepower, shaft drive, also comfortable, has BMW luggage, most complicated electrical part – the battery, and BMW reliability.

There was a third option, a Laverda Jota. We spent our honeymoon riding one from the UK through Europe, eventually ending up at the Laverda factory where it was born but our bodies are thirty six years older now, but the memories of Flintstones-type suspension, clutch pulling ‘Popeye’-sized left arms, booming exhausts and minimalist luggage have not faded with the years!

Which do you choose to strap into the case and send? Since beginning to plan the journey the intention was always to use the late-model BMW but as the time got nearer I began to mull over the fact that there was no reason why the old girl (no, not Lynda...) wouldn’t be up for the job in hand. Black Bess, as Lynda has

christened her is a 1972 BMW R75/5, has a few kilometres under her wheels but this is immaterial to an old boxer, she is lightweight, easy to handle, if disaster strikes it can handle an engine overhaul on the side of the road using the standard toolkit and is a bit like riding a comfy pair of slippers.

Potential downsides in comparison?

There’s the late-60s design, four-speed gearbox, ‘send a postcard’ brakes, seven inch headlamp, no weather protection and minimal horsepower, but we were planning on taking scenic, less travelled roads so cruising speed wasn’t really an issue.

We didn’t have to be anywhere in a hurry and I guess the main reason was that it would be more of an adventure riding a classic BMW. Think back to any long haul motorcycle trip you have undertaken, there are always going to be the days when you would gladly push the bike over KIWI RIDER

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“CYCLONE COURTNEY” WREAKS HAVOC IN QATAR

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t seems everyone was braced for “Cyclone Courtney” at the weekend, except her victims.

Everyone in New Zealand knew she was coming, but the shock was still profound when Otago’s Courtney Duncan cut a swathe through her opposition at the opening round of the Women’s Motocross World Championships in Qatar in late February.

The mostly-unheralded 20-year-old Duncan (Altherm JCR Yamaha YZ250F) battled nerves as she qualified fourth fastest in Qatar, but then she wreaked havoc on race night, winning both races comfortably.

Sharing the programme with the premier men’s MXGP and MX2 categories and raced under lights at night, but still an extremely warm 24°C, Duncan won both her two races ahead of French former world champion Livia Lancelot (Kawasaki).

Duncan, from the remote town of Palmerston, won the first race by more than 27 seconds and the second race by more than 28 seconds.

Dutch rider Nancy Van Der Ven (Yamaha) finished the night third overall with a 3-4 score-card.

Defending women’s world champion Kiara Fontanesi (Honda), from Italy managed 11-3 results to end the night only fifth overall.

The writing had perhaps been on the wall for Duncan’s dominance after her stunning performance in winning the MX2 class at the big annual stand-alone New Zealand Motocross Grand Prix at Woodville a month earlier.

But still she had been billed as a ‘rookie’ when she lined up to race at Qatar and that was perhaps no surprise because this was her first tilt – and supposedly her only – at the Women’s World Championships competition.

This event was the sole round of the six that Duncan had been entered for, a “testing of the waters” so to speak, but her results at the weekend have now enabled her to mount a full campaign.

Although unable to be with her, Duncan’s mentor and Altherm JCR Yamaha team boss in New Zealand, twotimer former world motocross No.2 Josh Coppins, from Motueka, was naturally delighted with her performance in Qatar.

“To be honest, it’s what we expected,” said Coppins.

“We expected big things from her and we prepared her well. We made sure she would be as ready as she could be.

Words & photos: Andy McGechan, bikesportnz.com

Otago’s Courtney Duncan sent the motocross world reeling with her shock double win in Qatar

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AUSSIE INVADERS SPICE Words & photos: Andy McGechan

Dean Ferris

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ew Zealand’s premier MX1 motocross crown is probably going to be packed up and taken away by an Australian rider this year, with Gold Coast pair Dean Ferris and Todd Waters waging some sort of Aussie civil war at the front of the pack.

After two of four rounds, there seems to be little that Mount Maunganui’s defending national MX1 champion Cody Cooper can do to turn the tide, not that he’ll be giving up before the last drop of the gate in Taupo on March 20.

Todd Waters

But, while trans-Tasman visitors Ferris and Waters were carving one another up in the MX1 class, it was Takaka’s Hamish Harwood and Ngatea’s Ben Broad who have been enjoying successes in the MX2 (250cc) and 125cc classes respectively.

Harwood, the South Islander now basing himself in Waitakere, finished 3-1-2 at the series opener in Timaru in early February and backed that up with a 3-2-1 score-card over his three races at round two in the Manawatu, on the sand-based Flipp’s Track at Himatangi. That enabled Harwood to stretch his championship lead from six to 17 points over the new second-ranked rider,

UP THE NATIONALS

another Australian invader, Victoria’s Jed Beaton. Beaton finished 9-3-1 at Timaru and 4-1-2 at Himatangi.

Reporoa’s Hadleigh Knight, Waitakere’s Ethan Martens and Rangiora’s Micah McGoldrick rounded out the top five in this class as the series reached the halfway stage.

“Yes, my day went pretty good,” said the 20-year-old Harwood in classic understatement, the KTM rider actually contesting two classes and settling into sixth overall after two rounds in the MX1 category as well.

“I have a comfortable buffer now over second place in MX2. I

won’t back off or relax though. I still want to get as many race wins as I can.

“I have never won a senior title in New Zealand and obviously that’s the aim.”

Harwood won junior titles in New Zealand and in Australia in 2011 and was Australian under-19 champion in 2013.

The 125cc class is always a frantic battleground, but Hauraki Plains College pupil Broad was simply superb in the Manawatu, racing his way to a hat-trick of wins.

Adding that to his 1-1-2 results at Timaru, he now enjoys a KIWI RIDER

79

Birch’s winning edge “I have used Mitas to win at the Roof of Africa and multiple titles in NZ” Chris Birch.

When the going gets soft, the tough get going The Pirelli Scorpion MX Mid Soft 32 tyres are suitable for soft to medium terrain, like light mud, loose loam and soil. They promise increased heating resistance in race conditions, reduced weight without compromising stability and cornering behaviour, and V-shaped knobs to improve braking stability and cornering side grip. They’re designed for high performance and consistency in severe racing conditions.

Distributor: Nationwide Accessories Price: from $61.79 Info: nwa.co.nz/product/catalogue/off-road/ scorpion-mx-midsoft-32

Beer goggles take you further for less Beer Optics goggle is designed with two major factors in mind: function and price.

The pliable Polyflex urethane frame material of the EKS-brand GOX Limited goggle with its hydrophilic two-layer fleece-lined face foam contours to your face for better seal and moisture-wicking comfort and protection.

We’re assured this is a high-quality, polycarbonate, shatter-resistant anti-scratch lens, with an anti-fog coating and 100 per cent UVA protection.

Distributor: Forbes & Davies Size style: Available in three models: Heiny (pictured), Cerveza and Fosty. A range of replacement tinted lens also available.

Price: $54 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

Maxima for maximum clean air A clean and perfectly oiled air filter provides maximum airflow and increased power, and Maxima makes this easier to achieve with its Air Filter Care Kit – a two-pack kit containing its race-proven Air Filter Cleaner and Fab1 Air Filter Oil. Spray on the Air Filter Cleaner to remove oil and dirt from foam and fabric air filter elements, then rinse out in water. Once dry follow this with Fab1 Spray-On Air Filter Oil to deliver a protective coating that catches fine dust without restricting airflow.

Distributor: Forbes & Davies Price: $44 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

Only the best need apply The AX-8 EVO tops the carbon fibre AGV helmets range for professional off-road use. The IVS (Integrated Ventilation System) features ducts hollowed into the fibreglass, kevlar and carbon shell for improved air circulation. The sanitised, breathable liner and the retention strap cover are removable for washing, while the chin air vent removes without the need for tools, and ensures optimal air flow.

This thickly padded lightweight helmet features a wide, soft base to reduce interference with neck protectors, and increase shock absorption in an impact.

Distributor: Nationwide Accessories Size style: Spray (yellow/orange/blue), S/56–XL/62, 3 shell sizes.

Price: $649 Info: nwa.co.nz

360MX Rear Alloy Sprockets We’re promised these 360MX alloy rear sprockets are of the highest quality when it comes to materials, state-of-the-art manufacturing processes and technology.

The aim was to deliver the ultimate sprocket for motocross racing so it’s made in the Netherlands of aviation-grade 7075-T6 aluminium alloy – the best material available.

Distributor: 454 Unlimited Price: from $69.95 Info: 454.co.nz, dirtbikegear.co.nz

DRC does the heavy lifting for you The DRC A1164 off-road bike lift stand (with damper) is a height-adjustable dirt-bike lift stand that fits under most dirt bikes, from 65cc to full size. The steel stand uses a hydraulic damper which eliminates the shock when dropping the level, and features an easy-to-use jack foot pedal and a non-slip rubber top plate to lift bikes up to 150kg in weight. Rubber foot grips keep the stand stable as it adjusts over a 250mm to 350mm height range.

Distributor: Northern Accessories Size style: W 335mm, D 310mm, H 250mm, weight 7.4kg, black/silver Price: $129 Info: northern.co.nz

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Mitas E09 goes tubeless First came the Dakar version of the E09, next there’s an exciting new development — the E09 is now a tubeless tyre. That means lovers of big adventure bikes who want a full off-road experience with their tubeless rims are in luck, thanks to the far-sighted guys and gals at Mitas.

Distributor: Dold Industries Price: Starting from $200 (talk to your dealer for a deal) Info: dold.co.nz Scott 350 – for those precious young heads The Scott 350 Youth helmet is designed to combine high-end materials and cutting-edge construction. They’re built using a lightweight thermoplastic shell, with integrated intake and exhaust vents and a removable, washable liner.

That means junior riders can have a helmet that looks good, feels good, and protects their head.

Distributor: Darbi Accessories Price: From: $169.50 Info: motorcyclegearnz.com

Chain ‘em up with Tsubaki Tsubaki has been making chain for over 80 years, and has become the world’s leading manufacturer of chain products. It supplies chain in a huge variety of tyres, sizes and materials to meet diverse demands in a wide range of applications and has built a reputation for quality and reliability. The Omega is designed to offer an affordable sealed O-ring chain which reaches optimal performance when used on motocross and small endurance bikes.

Distributor: Nationwide Accessories Price: From $166.86 Info: nwa.co.nz

Terrain-tromping Terra Forma boots These European-made adventure riding boots are about as stylish as an adventure/dirt boot can be, yet they also come with all the bells and whistles, including a full-grain leather upper, CE approved protection, a buckle and velcro closure, and a Drytex waterproof and breathable liner.

Distributor: Forbes & Davies Size style: Brown or Black in Euro sizes 42 to 49 Price: $509.00 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz SBS provide the power to stop The ability to stop while racing is arguably more important than outright power, so SBS says MX racers should accept only its RSI Sinter Off-Road Racing pads. They’re designed to deliver a powerful, predictable and fade-free brake performance right out of the gate, even under the extreme race track conditions and challenging demands of Grand Prix racing.

Distributor: Dold Industries Price: prices vary depending on your bike so check with your SBS stockist.

Info: dold.co.nz

Waterproof foam air filter oil the real deal Bel-Ray’s Foam Air Filter Oil is formulated for all street, off-road and racing foam air filter applications. Bel-Ray says it took innovative technology to produce this stuff, which is easy to apply and improves air flow. An ultra-viscous formula forms an oil barrier to trap micron-sized particles that can cause engine damage, while its waterproof formula means the barrier film will not wash off, gum up or clog when wet. It’s aimed at all foam-type air-filter elements, and will dry fast.

Distributor: Northern Accessories Price: 1 litre $29.95, 4 litre $99.95 Info: northern.co.nz

84

KIWI RIDER

DistributeD by eurobike Wholesale (NZ) ltD

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EBLKR012

Words: Mark Whyte, Ben Wilkins / Photos: Geoff Osborne

Hot on the heels of the YZ250FX, Yamaha has given its 450 four-stroke the cross-country treatment.

Mark Whyte brings you the hot news on Yamaha’s latest sled.

A

fter going to the launch of the all-new Yamaha WR450F in Stroud Australia in December last year I was more than keen to be involved with the launch of the new YZ450FX, which is a new addition to the Yamaha off-road line up. The introduction of the YZ450FX pretty much completes Yamaha’s range of off-road competition motorcycles. They rack up like this; YZ250X, WR250F, YZ250FX, WR450F and now the YZ450FX. No other Japanese manufacturer offers an off-road line-up quite like this, in fact they’re not even close. The FX sits between the YZ450F and the WR450F and is what we here in NZ would call a cross-country bike although Yamaha is calling it an Enduro race machine and I’m certain the new FX would be right at home in either terrain. Once again, as with the YZ250FX, this model has had a lot of input from our own Josh Coppins and Yamaha Australia’s enduro legend Peter Payne so you could say this bike has been developed by Antipodeans, which is great for us as we get a bike developed with our riding conditions in mind.

The YZ450FX has many parts in common with both the YZ450F and WR450F. The frame is the same as that of the WR450F and it shares the WR’s five-speed wide-ratio gear box but the best news is the FX also gets the WR’s electric starter.The FX has the YZ450F muffler and, unlike the WR, it doesn’t have a cooling fan or head and tail lights. It does gain the large capacity 160W generator from the WR as well as the same high capacity battery for the fuel-injection, KIWI RIDER

87

T

here’s no denying it, Honda’s CRF250R four-stroke motocrosser has always had a great chassis and been a nice handling machine. But in recent years the engine department has lacked punch and power, especially when compared with its rivals.

In the quarter-litre class, where power is crucial, this lacklustre performance has, frankly, been disappointing for top riders. So, while the motor of the 2016 CRF250R looks very similar to last year, Honda’s engineers have put a lot of effort into the 250cc engine and, no doubt about it, they have made major strides in the right direction. While the peak power is not class leading, the power delivery is as good as it gets and is right at the top of the pack.

As with the 450, Honda has concentrated on making the bike fast around the track, rather than fast on the spec sheet – and for most riders this approach certainly pays dividends.

Visually the 2016 250 chassis and bodywork is unchanged from last year too, but don’t be fooled into thinking this is the same machine under the hood. Subtle chassis updates have improved the handling balance as well, but before going in to chassis details, let’s first run through why the engine is so much better.

The fuel injected, 249cc Uni-cam liquid-cooled single cylinder engine has had the compression upped to 13.8:1 from 13.5:1 last year. The camshaft has been redesigned for less weight. The exhaust valves are titanium and both the inlet and exhaust valve springs are lighter. A new intake port and airbox boot optimise air intake. Lastly a lighter piston and connecting rod, along with a new exhaust resonator complete the updates. Less reciprocating mass, higher compression and better breathing are always a decent recipe for more grunt and that is certainly true of this Honda. The new model gains 1.4kW at peak power and 0.6Nm at peak torque. Both of these gains are 500rpm further up the rev range; it has to rev higher to make the extra power. More power generally means increased heat too, but Honda has this covered with a larger left-hand radiator.

The power delivery is great from low revs; just like last year with plenty of torque and traction. Above half throttle some decent momentum builds with real guts and this develops into quite a strong top end. I found the 250 extremely easy to ride fast in a variety of conditions because of the wide, forgiving power

Boasting more power and torque, does Honda’s quarter-litre motocrosser now have the engine to match its beautiful chassis in 2016? delivery – a light switch this is not.

As is becoming the norm now, the engine has power modes, in this case three. The modes are selected from a switch block button near the right hand grip. I liked the standard map best because it had the broadest powerband. The aggressive map did have more top end hit, but it felt to be at the expense of midrange grunt and was therefore more difficult to use around the whole track. The third and most mellow map was still okay, just mellow and best for extremely slick conditions.

Chassis-wise the forks are 5mm longer with 25% less internal friction from a three lip, instead of a two lip main oil seal. A new outer air chamber has been added so that the last third of the

travel can quickly be firmed up to cope with tracks with huge hits. Front and rear the suspension valving has been updated along with a new rear linkage ratio that is harder initially and a 4mm smaller chain roller is used. I’m sure that the 2mm less interference with the chain won’t make a large difference to the chain loading of the rear suspension, but every little bit helps.

The clicker adjusters now have eight clicks per rotation instead of four, which I think will make the bike harder to set up – most riders couldn’t notice a one click difference before and now they’re meant to feel half the change?

New footpeg mounts are said to stop the pegs jamming up when packed with mud, this should prove helpful on tracks with

deep clay ruts.

On the track I felt very much at home and I’m no real fan of 250cc four-strokes. The broad, flexible and quite potent engine is very user friendly. Missing a gear change is not likely to cost you a track position which can be the case with top-end-style motors. And in the first place, missing a gear is not likely either from the slick, accurate shifting five-speed gearbox.

The cable clutch has a light feel and took moderate abuse well, so maybe good riders can avoid the expense of an aftermarket one... time will tell.

The suspension felt decent at both ends and I actually preferred it in action to the units on its big brother, the 450. Up front the KIWI RIDER

93

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Taking the bike on an overseas tour, or buying or selling overseas?

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Then call us-we have years of experience and good reviews from riders touring USA, Australia, Canada, Europe & UK. We can arrange freighting, all customs facilities, holding of crates and shipment of bikes and goods purchased on tour back to New Zealand.

We have offices & customs teams throughout USA, Australia, Europe and agencies in Canada and UK. Two years ago we had a family tragedy and had to get back to New Zealand immediately. We were in the back blocks of Colorado. One phone call to Mainfreight in LA and they just sorted everything out. They picked our bikes up from Colorado, sorted out all of the details and shipped the bikes home to us... Bridget Jakicevich Another successful trip to the States for my group and a large part played by yourself and Mainfreight. Looking back has been 8 years now, you have been involved... With out your help I know that it could otherwise be very stressful with much unnecessary time dealing with the minutia to the various agencies involved both in New Zealand and The US.... Ken Contact Jeff Larsen on jeff.larsen@mainfreight.com 04 816 5255 or 0274 493008

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EVENTS CALENDAR / APRIL 2016 * Please check with organisers before event in case of cancellations, errors or changes in dates *

ADVENTURE RIDES MARCH - 10/13, Wicked Wairarapa, trail adventure, 4 days riding, fully guided and catered event, starts and finishes nr Martinborough. Check out details with Mike at mike@adventurerides.co.nz or 0212849047 or visit www.adventurerides.co.nz - 20, Kaipara and surrounds Big Adventure Bike Tour, with NGARNZ, checkout www.northerngraveladventureridersnz APRIL - 9/12, East Cape Capers, trail adventure, 4 days riding fully guided and catered event, starts and finishes in Gisborne. Check out details with Mike at mike@adventurerides. co.nz or 0212849047 or visit www.adventurerides.co.nz - 16, BMW GS Rallye at Raglan, celebrating 35 yrs of the motorcycle that defines Adventure Riding, gravel seal or laid back adventure routes. Route sheets and GPS available, knobbly tyres not required.

Test ride various GS bikes, prize draws, ride starts 9am, on Friday 15th there is a BBQ free to all entrants, see BMW GS Rallye FB for more details - 21/24, Northern Exposure, trail adventure, 4 days riding, fully guided and catered event, starts and finishes near Kaeo, Northland. Check out details with Mike at mike@adventurerides.co.nz or 0212849047 or visit www.adventurerides.co.nz JUNE - 4/5, Taupo to Interior Central and Surrounds Self Guide Adventure Bike Ride, with NGARNZ, checkout www.northerngraveladventureridersnz JULY - tba, Overseas Adventure, Trans-American Trail Tour, US based, guided or self navigate with GPS. Contact Jim either 021517110 or email jimdenham@hotmail.co.nz or visit www.northerngraveladventureridersnz.com4 SEPTEMBER - 12, ALL NEW AUSTRALIAN Adventure Bike Ride, with NGARNZ, checkout www.northerngraveladventureridersnz OCTOBER - 22/23, Heartland Gisborne based Adventure Bike Ride with NGARNZ, checkout www.northerngraveladventureridersnz NOVEMBER - Date tba, Adventure Taupo and Surrounds with NGARNZ, checkout www.northerngraveladventureridersnz MOTOCROSS NZ MX Championships:13 March - Rotorua 20 March - Taupo (final round)

100

KIWI RIDER

APRIL - 3, MX with Tauranga M/C Club, final round, at TECT, all terrain park, Whataroa Road, Bay of Plenty, sign on: 7.30am to 8.30am, briefing 8.45am, practice 9am.

Ride fees: Main track: members $25, non members $30.

Mini track: members $15, non members $20, (cash or cheque only as no eftpos).

FREE day licences, $5 transponders main track / mini track manual lap scoring.

Rescue Response on site as medics, food & coffee available.

Contact www.taurangamcc.co.nz for more details/cancellations etc OCTOBER - 14, Nailing the Peat 4, at Patetonga, 516 Mangawhero Rd, with Hauraki Plains College hosting the Secondary School Invitation TT Series, cost $55 per rider, entries close Wednesday 21st September, limited to 140 riders.

Email amandaf@haurakiplains.school.nz or ring her on 07 8677029 ext 812 RUNS, RALLIES, RIDES, SHOWS & TOURS Attention all Aprilia Riders: Wanted to form a small & relaxing club for touring, racing & club meetings every week.

Contact: Vincent 021 682 823 or aprilia_NZ@hotmail.com APRIL - 22/23, 70th Anniversary Celebrations, registration on 22nd, from 6pm at the clubrooms. On Sat 23rd ride the Historic Bethune’s Gully Hill Climb. In the evening from 5pm there will be guest speakers including Josh Coppins.

Check out www.anniversary otagomotorcycleclub.org.nz SUPERMOTARD (mixed dirt / tarmac races) also see www.supermotard.co.nz/events TRACK DAYS Playday On Track Southern Tracks Tour 2016 At: Teretonga 10, 11, 14, 16 & 17 March -cars & bikes Fast, Medium/Fast, Medium, Novice $150 per ride Queries etc playday@playdayontrack.co.nz Pay direct to 03 0698 0485598-00 with your name as reference. Email us to confirm.

Or check out www.playdayontrack.co.nz for more details.

TRAIL RIDES “The Kawasaki Sandpit”, Woodhill Forest, Rimmers Rd entrance, SH16, Helensville.

The ultimate offroad motorcycle playground.

Come and ride, we are open Wednesday to Sunday 9-5pm with a late night on Thursday.

Ph: 09 420 8879 or for more information go to www.thesandpit.co.nz

To advertise here call Todd on 021 709 989

MARCH - 20, Totara Valley Trailride, at The Brothers, Pleasant Point, signposted from Monument Rd and Raincliff Rd). Sign on from 9.30am.

Cost: $50 per rider, $70 per family. Mini/ Peewee riders free with parents supervision.

No dogs. Suitable trailbikes and quadbikes.

BBQ available. Enquiries: trailrides@xtra. co.nz for posters and cancellations.

- 8/12, Adventure Trailrides Multi Day Tour, Canterbury Trails Tour, check out trailrides@ xtra.co.nz. Other dates: 5-9 April (5 day McKenzie tour), 3-7 May (5 day Canterbury Trails Tour) - 18/20, Tussock Buster, enjoy 63000 hectares of army land. Contact Warrick Funnell warrick@offlimits.co.nz for more details - 25, Riverhead Summer Trailride Series, (Good Friday) starts 9am, for info phone Tjebbe 09 4809408 or Bill Mancer 021725720 or Arran Harding 021715221 other dates: 17 April, 15 May APRIL - 3, Maramarua Classic Vinduro Trail Ride, event organiser Greg Power. For more Info contact John 0272070267, or Greg 0274454429 or visit www.vinduronz.com - 5/9, Adventure Trailrides Multi Day Tour, 5 day McKenzie Tour, check out trailrides@ xtra.co.nz. Other date: 3-7 May (5 day Canterbury Trails Tour) - 17, Riverhead Summer Trailride Series, starts 9am, for info phone Tjebbe 09 4809408 or Bill Mancer 021725720 or Arran Harding 021715221 - next date: 15 May MAY - 3/7, Adventure Trailrides Multi Day Tour, 5 day Canterbury Trails Tour, check out trailrides@xtra.co.nz.

- 15, Riverhead Summer Trailride Series (final), starts 9am, for info phone Tjebbe 09 4809408 or Bill Mancer 021725720 or Arran Harding 021715221 The Sandpit (Woodhill Forest) Open 9-5 Wed to Sunday, tracks suitable for all levels, family passes available, for more Info phone 09 420 8879 or visit www. thesandpit.co.nz, hire bikes available but bookings essential TRAINING DAYS

RiderSkills Motorcycle Training Motorcycle training 7 days a week, for new or back to biking, and confidence building, including advanced roadcraft.

Phone Phil McDaid on 0800 245 387 or visit www.riderskills.co.nz Barry’s Point Road Monthly Ride Out Monthly rides on the last Saturday of each month, from Hyosung Motorcycles at 72 Barrys Pt Road, Takapuna. Meet 9.30, to depart 10.00. All abilities welcome.

Professionally run by Accelerated Motorcycle training with instructors available on the ride for assistance. Safe, sociable ride lasting 2-3 hours with a coffee stop en route. Call David Horner 021970648 or visit http://motorbiketrainingnorthshore.co.nz/ join-the-barrys-point-road-rideout/ or ring 0508 776 643 or 027 699 8089

continued on page 104

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KIWI RIDER

103

- RACE RESULTS -

continued from page 100

NZ MX Champs 2016 Manawatu

Timaru

MX1

Name

Bike

Town

Round 2

Race 3

Race 2

Race 1

Round 1

Race 3

1

Dean Ferris

YZ450F

Australia

145

25

25

20

75

25

2

Todd Waters

RM-Z450L6

Australia

131

22

22

25

62

20

3

Cody Cooper

CR450F

Mt Maunganui

126

20

20

22

64

22

4

Scott Columb

KX450F

Queenstown

101

18

16

18

49

13

5

Brad Groombridge

RM450

Taupo

97

16

18

16

47

16

6

Hamish Harwood

KTM250F

Takaka

93

15

14

15

49

18

7

Daryl Hurley

Husqvarna FC350

Hawera

81

14

15

14

38

15

8

Kieran Scheele

KX450F

Napier

66

13

13

12

28

11

9

Campbell King

RM450

Brighton

65

10

11

13

31

10

10

Dylan Miles

RMZ450

Timaru

61

11

10

10

30

6

11

Hayden Wilkinson

YZ450F

Nelson

41

9

9

9

14

8

12

Roydon White

KTM450F

Tauranga

41

4

0

11

26

9

13

Justin McDonald

CRF450

Christchurch

40

0

0

0

40

12

14

Kieran Bryant

CRF450

Te Horo

37

8

8

6

15

7

15

Yu Hirata

YZ450F

Japan

33

0

0

0

33

14

Manawatu

Timaru

MX2

Name

Bike

Town

Round 2

Race 3

Race 2

Race 1

Round 1

Race 3

1

Hamish Harwood

KTM250F

Takaka

139

25

22

25

67

22

2

Jed Beaton

YZ250F

Australia

122

22

25

18

57

25

3

Hadleigh Knight

Husqvarna 250F

Reporoa

104

15

16

12

61

14

4

Ethan Martens

YZ250

Auckland

103

20

20

15

48

18

5

Micah McGoldrick

CRF250

Rangiora

97

18

14

16

49

20

6

Cohen Chase

YZ250F

Taupo

95

16

18

20

41

15

7

Joel Wightman

CR250F

Australia

76

14

13

10

39

12

8

Kayne Lamont

YZ250F

Mangakino

74

0

0

22

52

16

9

Logan Blackburn

CR250F

Te Puke

74

0

15

13

46

13

10

Sam Greenslade

KX250F

Coatesville

60

13

11

11

25

8

11

Trent Collins

CR250F

Ohaupo

59

12

10

9

28

9

12

Sam Cuthbertson

YZ250F

Dunedin

45.053

0

0.053

7

38

11

13

Jayden Turnwald

RM250F

Pokeno

25.055

5

1

4

15.055

7

14

Reece Walker

YZ250F

Hope

23

0

0

0

23

10

15

Jacob Steel

CR250

Te Awamutu

16.052

1

0.052

1

14

6

Next rounds: 13 March Rotorua, 20 March Taupo (final round) WSBK 2016

Phillip Island

Name

Bike

Country

Round 1

Race 2

Race 1

1

Jonathon Rea

Kawasaki

GBR

50

25

25

2

Mark van der Mark

Honda

NED

36

20

16

3

Davide Giugliano

Ducati

ITA

29

16

13

4

Chas Davies

Ducati

GBR

26

6

20

5

Sylvain Guintoli

Yamaha

FRA

21

11

10

6

Tom Sykes

Kawasaki

GBR

21

10

11

7

Nicky Hayden

Honda

USA

20

13

7

8

J Torres

BMW

ESP

17

9

8

9

J Brookes

BMW

AUS

13

7

6

10

M Reiterberger

BMW

GER

8

8

0

Next round: Thai 13 Mar, Aragon 3 Apr, Dutch 17 Apr

104

KIWI RIDER

To advertise here call Todd on 021 709 989

Auckland Motorcycle Club Advanced Rider Training Visit AMCC website (www.amcc.org.nz for entry form) Enquiries: Colleen at cthompson@paraserv. co.nz or amccinc@Ihug.co.nz or ph 09 489 1239 or 027 423 1433 Adventure Bike Coaching with Chris Birch Level 1 Wednesday 16 March Waitetuna Valley, Waikato (half way between Hamilton and Raglan - accommodation available). Buy tickets at gsadventuresnz. ticketbud.com/adventure-bike-training Contact Jonathan on 021 497 516 or gsadventuresnz@gmail.com

CLUB SECRETARIES If you want your event listed here FREE, as it has always been for our Events pages, please fax the details to: KR EVENTS, (09) 416-5308 or email admin@kiwirider.co.nz.

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Motorcycle Street Race Easter Saturday 9.30am - 4pm 2016

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KIWI RIDER

105

Tired of riding on your own?

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Looking for the company of like-minded motorcycle enthusiasts?

website: www.bmwor.org.nz email: president@bmwor.org.nz

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Classics

Words & photos: Rhys Jones

MOTORCYCLES IN THE MOVIES Marlon Brando in The Wild One

A

couple of issues ago we featured scooters, and their place in the world of classic twowheeled transport. Much of the scooter media exposure was related to celebritybased advertising, and fashionable movies.

A succession of movie stars gave the scooter the aura of a fashion accessory, rather than a form of cheap transport. If we look instead at motorcycles and the media, both advertising and movies, things are different. Motorcycles began to appear in movies as early as the 1920s, although Mack Sennett, the ‘King of slap-stick comedy’ featured an extended chase through the countryside with a motorcycle and sidecar in Love Speed and Thrills in 1915. The Marx Brothers also featured a motorcycle and sidecar in Duck Soup in 1933. In 1935 on the other side of the Atlantic, in No Limit the English comedian George Formby followed his dream to win the Isle of Man TT races. It seems that the motorcycle was destined to become a comedy, rather than fashion, accessory.

By the end of World War Two, the image of the motorcycle

was totally redefined. A breed of restless young men returned from the war and created, mainly in America, an image of the biker that would last for a quarter of a century. The movie The Wild One in 1954 set the scene for a series of so called biker movies that featured groups of rebellious, and often violent young men on motorcycles, terrorising the countryside.

Marlon Brando played the main character and when asked “What are you rebelling against?” says “What have you got?” The Wild One was inspired by a 1947 incident when thousands of bikers wrecked a Fourth of July celebration, and terrorised a small town in California.

The freedom of the open road, rebellion, and anti-social behaviour became themes for many of the outlaw biker movies that followed. Mainstream actors began to appear in slightly sanitised biker movies; Elvis Presley in Roustabout (1965), Peter Fonda and Nancy Sinatra in Wild Angels (1966), and in 1969 the movie that has become perhaps the most celebrated of all cult motorcycle movies Easy Rider. In 1971 an actor who was a genuine motorcycle enthusiast bucked the trend in Bruce Brown’s documentary On Any Sunday.

The actor was Steve McQueen, and the movie emphasised

Sharing your passion facebo

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