KIWI RIDER MAGAZINE AUG 2015

DUCATI SCRAMBLER MODERN RIDE WITH A 60 VIBE s

MOTO GUZZI GRISO SHARP-DRESSED BRUISER

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MOTORCYCLE MAGAZINE AUGUST 2015 2016 MX MODELS YAMAHA MT-09 TRACER SUZUKI GSX-R1000 ABS MOTO GUZZI GRISO DUCATI SCRAMBLER DR650SE MODS

SINCE 1984

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ANSTEY WINS THE SUPERBIKE RACE AND RACKS UP 10th TT WIN

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$10 INCL GST

GSX-R1000 SUPERBIKE

WHAT IT’S LIKE TO RIDE THE NZ SUPERBIKE CHAMP’S GSX-R

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YAMAHA TRACER

AUGUST 2015

FAST AND COMFY - MEET THE FUTURE OF SPORTS TOURING • 2016 MX MODELS REVEALED • GSX-R1000 ABS • DR200S ADVENTURES • DR650SE MODS • HONDA’S NEW ‘AFRICA TWIN’ • RACE TO THE SKY

The

ROAD Top Product Awards

GUIDE

www.roadguide.co.nz

$

299

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 $199rrp. Mens Fluro Yellow/ Black and Black/Black. Mens Stout Jackets $219rrp

X - FIVE WATERPROOF

MENS & WOMENS BLACK/BLACK

$ FROM

MENS FLURO YELLOW/BLACK

199

rrp

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

Corsair-V GP Isle of Man TT 2015 limited edition Limited numbers in stock now.

Always a design everybody is anxious for: the new RX-7 GP IOM TT '15 edition! A composition in black, white and striking gold with of course a prominent position for the three-legged Isle of Man symbol. Grab a slice of history and celebrate Bruce Anstey’s success.

99

$

95

TARMAC HOT GRIPS A great Hot Grip that’s a breeze to install and offers simple stepped heat ranges. Features: Fully waterproof control unit. 5 adjustable heat settings.

Grips available for 7/8" and ATV bars.

Includes a 7/8" bar mount for control unit. Kit Includes: 1 x Pair of heated grips. 1 x Temperature control switch.

1 x Wiring Harness. 1 x Bar mount inc.

Screws. 1 x Grip Glue. 2 x Bar plugs. 1 x Square double sided tape. #TRTARHG001 $99.95rrp.

EASY TO INSTALL EXCELLENT PERFORMANCE

$1,395

39

$

Rjays Tour-Am II The all new Rjays Tour-Am II boots is the perfect all rounder. Whether you are touring around the country, commuting to work or just after a comfortable pair of boots, the Rjays Tour-Am II boot has it all. Features: Super Lightweight, Abrasion Resistant Microbre Construction. 100% Waterproof. 100% Breathable.

High Density Ankle Protectors. Reective Strips at Heal and Toe. Reinforced Toe and Heal. Internal Hard Shell Shin Protection. Gear Shift Pad. 3 Quarter Length Zip with Velcro Closure. Zip has a Velcro tab on the end to keep it in place. Dual stitched. Slip/oil resistance rubber sole. Men's Sizes: 37 - 48. $199rrp.

$

199

RJAYS BIKE/SCOOTER COVERS FEATURES; Aluminium polyurethane coating inside and out: highly water resistant, breathable and heat resistant Double stitched seams - Durable locking slot is reinforced with double stitching Quick-lock buckle system around base at the middle of bike cover - Extra strong high memory long life front and rear elasticised tyre grippers - Expandable zipped section for easy access to top box while cover is tted, on scooter covers only - Expandable wide front for large screen or wide handlebars - Compact size for good t - Available in colour: Grey. $39.95rrp.

59

$

95

95

RJAYS LINED BIKE/SCOOTER COVERS FEATURES; Fleecy lined - 100% Waterproof – double tape sealing - UV resistant - Durable locking slot is reinforced with double stitching to ensure lock doesn’t damage cover Quick-lock buckle system around base at the middle of bike cover enables cover to be adjusted in, to prevent wind lifting, extra grommets around base for extra security - Extra strong high memory long life front and rear elasticised tyre grippers - Expandable zipped section for easy access to top box while cover is tted, on scooter covers only - Expandable wide front for large screen or wide handlebar Compact size for good t. $59.95rrp.

The

Dirt 09

www.dirtguide.co.nz

HOT PRODUCTS

Guide

ONEAL Series 3 Hurricane Helmet Never before has a name-brand helmet with so many features been available in NZ at such a small price. - Ultra-plush removable/washable padded liner keeps you cool and dry by wicking away sweat - Adjustable visor design - Intake and exhaust vents for ventilation and cooling - Durable multi-colored clear coated graphics - Just $139rrp. Best value in NZ.

$

HURRICANE BLUE/RED

139 SERIES 3

BLACK

STARCROSS 5 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.

HURRICANE ORANGE

HURRICANE BLK/RED

ONEAL ELEMENT BOOT The Element Boot steps in to a class of its own. Built to the quality of a first class racing boot but sold at an entry level price, this boot simply can’t be beat for overall value and style. FEATURES; All Newbuckle. - Bonded Sole. - Durable Construction. - Full adjustable four buckle closure system. Tough sole with metal shank. - Injection moulded plastic shin plate and protection. - Generous heel support and padding for added comfort. - Built in heat shield. Replacement rubber sole inserts, straps and buckles available. Black; Adult and Youth sizes, White; Adult only.

Worth $249, yours for just $199.

199

ELEMENT BOOTS

$

MX GRIPS

DUAL COMPOUND—SOFT AND DURABLE. Renthal dual compound grips combine the durability of Renthal firm compound grips with the feel and vibration absorption qualities of Renthal soft grips. A firm compound is used for the flange, inner sleeve and outer end of the grip for maximum durability. A soft compound is used for the outer layer of the grip which is in direct contact with the palm, fingers and thumb for improved feel.

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.

$29.95

BLACK

RED

BLUE

ORANGE

STARCROSS 5 SOFT

STARCROSS 5 MEDIUM

THE ALL NEW V7 II. THREE MODELS. FOUR STYLES. UNLIMITED PERSONALITY. While the second generation of the Moto Guzzi V7II keeps the stylistic personality of its predecessor, it is a completely new bike in terms of technology, powertrain, ergonomics, safety, construction quality and finish.

Now the essential V7II STONE, the spirited V7II SPECIAL and the celebrated V7II RACER have been released with four ingenious systems of accessories creating a totally unique level of personalisation.

Create the Moto Guzzi V7II that really is you. Alone.

To experience one of the greatest motorcycles in the world, see your Moto Guzzi dealer today or visit motoguzzi.net.nz

www.motoguzzi.net.nz

V7II SPECIAL

V7II RACER

V7II STONE

DASHBOARD 14

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NEW HONDA AFRICA TWIN

Briefly shown at the Milan Show, Honda has an adventure bike coming.

Ducati scrambler

Fresh, cool and making it’s own niche, meet Ducati’s 60s-inspired Scrambler.

moto guzzi griso

Bold, Italian styling and a grunty motor make the Griso a stand-out machine.

Gsx-r1000 superbike

Riding Jayden Hassen’s Superbike, and the new GSX-R with ABS.

42

yamaha mt-09 tracer

With suspension upgrades, a bigger tank and luggage, the Tracer is a tour-de-force.

52

14 30

26

DR200S TRAVELS

Central Otago is big enough to disappear in. Beks and Beryl did...

64

dirt guide series

68

race to the sky

78

AUG 15

Coverage from the first round of the Dirt Guide Series.

The longest dirt hillclimb in the World is in NZ and it’s fast and furious.

2016 mx weaponary

The wraps are off 2016’s hot bikes.

Traction control is very much in.

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KIWI RIDER

5

Hello...

W

elcome to the August issue of Kiwi Rider.

I don’t think motorcycling has ever seen a more diverse period in terms of model variety since motorcycling began. It seems like almost every month here at KR Towers we need to come up with a new name to coin a particular sub-category of bike. It used to be easy; we had road bikes and dirt bikes. That was it. Easy. Now we’ve got commuters, cruisers, retro-cruisers, sports-cruisers, sportsters, tourers, sports-tourers, street bikes, adventure street bikes etc. you get the gist. And that doesn’t even cover half of them, or take into account the variety of dirt bikes on the market. In this issue alone we have supersport, sports-tourer, muscle-cruiser, retro-street,

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 Office: 09 416 5307 Email: pete@kiwirider.co.nz sales and Marketing: Pete McPhee Office: 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: Brian Nitto (www.55productions.com)

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KIWI RIDER

trail and motocross machines. Niche motorcycles are dominating the market!

Naming aside, the plus side is there’s more choice out there today that lets us find exactly the right motorcycle to suit our individual needs. And on top of that the manufacturers are offering far more catalogue options to modify and personalise our bikes. Have we ever had it so good? I don’t think so.

What do you think? Are there too many models on the market, filling up the dealerships so it’s harder to make a choice, or are we living in the most bountiful motorcycling era to date? Email your thoughts to admin@kiwirider.co.nz and let us know. Enjoy the mag.

BEN WILKINS

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

FRONT END 9  NEWS 19  ROAD PRODUCTS

Honda RCV MotoGP for the road.

Norton in New Zealand.

Moto Guzzi V7 II launched.

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

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51

 ROGER MORONEY

73

 DIRT PRODUCTS

 ANSTY WINS TT

Flying Kiwi wins the Superbike race at the 2015 IOM TT taking his tally of wins to 10.

ROOST ZONE 59  NEWS

MX of Nations shortlist revealed.

Name our MXoN team and win!

Battle of the Clubs MX. Have your say on Vintage Enduro.

BACK END 84  BIKE MART

Essential services and products for you and your bike.

90

 EVENTS CALENDAR

92

 RACE RESULTS

MotoGP, World Superbike Championships.

96

Crashing hurts. Not just in the here and now but in the future too.

Everything you need to keep you and your bike in tip-top condition.

 SUZUKI DR650 FILES Our Suzuki DR650 gets mods to make it into the adventure tourer we know it can be.

101

 CLASSICS

104

 CARLESS DAYS

A look at Triumph’s big capacity twins.

Your pictures from the days when biking

was care-free... and we had more hair.

THE NEW 2015 R 1200 R – $25,990 The R1200R gives you a new road riding experience like no other, with electronic suspension adjustment (ESA) and riding modes to set your ride up to the environment and experience you want.

THE NEW 2015 S 1000 RR – $29,990 The most potent performance package ever seen on a production superbike is now available to you, Road or Track, the 2015 S1000RR gives you the advantage of individual set up over the rest.

Dynamic Electronic Suspension Adjustment, Computer Pro, Cruise Control, Riding Modes, Dynamic Traction Control, Gear Shift Assistant Pro, Luggage Grid and more.

Dynamic Traction Control, Riding Modes Pro, Cruise Control, Gear Shift Assistant Pro, Dynamic Damping Control, ABS and more.

The newest arrivals are here, check them out at your nearest BMW Motorrad Dealership today.

Cyclespot Euro Takapuna Auckland 09 486 3077

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

MOTOGP FOR THE ROAD

E

ver since Honda won the first MotoGP championship in 2002 with the RC211V, sections of the motorcycle press have titillated readers with speculation of a roadgoing Honda MotoGP bike.

Now, 13 years later and more than three incarnations of Honda MotoGP racer later, the world’s biggest motorcycle maker has done it. On June 14 it wheeled out a road-going version of its current factory racer and had Casey Stoner turn some demonstration laps in front of a packed crowd at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

This really is a grand prix racer with lights, starter motor and sidestand, with the engine de-tuned to meet emission laws and fitted with steel valve springs rather than pneumatic closing. Suzuki was first to offer a ‘grand prix replica’ with the RG500 two-stroke square four in 1985 but while the RG followed the GP bike’s engine configuration, it differed in many areas. The first true GP racer with lights was Ducati’s 990cc Desmosedici, announced in 2004, revealed at the Italian GP in 2006 and produced in limited numbers (1500) from December 2007.

Now Honda is to offer the RC213V-S. These will be hand built by Honda at an exclusive workshop at its Kumamoto factory. The bike has been developed from the current RC213V GP racer by a team at Honda R&D using engineers with past experience of the RC211V (900cc V5) and RC212V (800cc V4).

Honda has poured substantial resources into this machine that specification numbers do not begin to explain. It is not a production bike: Honda expects to build just one a day.

The price of such exclusivity? We understand around $A240,000. See the next issue for a full technical analysis.

NORTON IN NZ

N

orton is back in NZ on Auckland’s North Shore. Cyclespot on Barrys Point Road, Takapuna has the full 2015 range in store.

The Commando comes in three different specifications. All three share the Commando 961 designation. The range, in order of ascending spec level, includes the Sport, Café Racer and the SF. All New Zealand machines come with a dual seat and a cowl to make it a single seater. The bikes come with a number of options that can be tailored to your own specifications from the factory. The base price is $37,490. Call Cyclespot on 09 486 1136 to book a demonstration ride.

KIWI RIDER

9

XLV750R

XLV600 TransalpHONDA

Honda XRV750 Africa Twin

Honda’s first foray into the Adventure market was with the XLV750R in 1982. At 220kg and with shaft drive, it failed to gain traction in either Australia or New Zealand. It was only in production for three years…

The XLV600 Transalp showed up in Honda’s line-up at the Paris Motorcycle Exhibition in 1986 and continued in production for almost 26 years, growing from 600 to 650cc then to almost 700cc in its final fuel-injected incarnation. It was dropped in 2012.

In December 1989 Honda launched the first Honda XRV750 Africa Twin for the 1990 model year. It went through a series of updates before ending production 13 years later. Never popular in Australia or New Zealand.

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KIWI RIDER

Honda plans Dirt-Focused Adventure Bike Words: Michael Esdaile

Honda XL1000V Varadero

2013 Honda CRF450 Rally

CRF1000L Prototype

Before it discontinued the Africa Twin in 2003, Honda took the 996cc FireStorm engine and shoved it into an Adventure bike. It appeared in 1998 and was produced until 2010. A thirsty engine, acres of plastic, top heavy handling and soft looks didn’t help it win friends in NZ.

In late 2012 Honda unveiled its CRF450 Rally model at the International Motorcycle, Scooter and Bike Fair (INTERMOT) in Cologne, Germany. Based on the CRF450 motocross bike, it was a pure desert racer.

With the fuel tank low and mid-ships, the CRF1000L boasts a slim mid-section, like a proper off-roader. Air intakes either side of headlights feed a two-piece airbox.

KIWI RIDER

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TEL 07 8566 555 www.touratech.co.nz info@touratech.co.nz

Helmet goes the extra mile HJC’s lightweight IS-MAX 2 is made from an Advanced Polycarbonate Composite Shell with an adjustable chinbar. There’s a one-touch integrated three-stage sun visor, a single-button chinbar/ face shield release you can open with one hand, even with gloves on, and a pin-lock-prepped visor with an anti-scratch coating and a quick tool-less visor replacement system.

Advanced channeling keeps you cool, crown and cheek pads are removable for washing, and it has a glasses groove for spectacle wearers.

Distributor: Darbi Accessories Size style: S to 2XL Price: From $349 Info: motorcyclegearnz.com Hot Hands Why heat only part of your hand with heated grips when with heated gloves your whole hand stays warm? Constructed of lightweight materials, these heated inner gloves are just the trick to keep your hands toasty while you’re out riding this winter. They come ready to draw power from your bike or 12V vehicle, but can also be powered by a Li-ion battery (the battery’s a cost option). Check out youtu. be/4rYyDQKc-HA for more info.

Distributor: Dold Industries Price: $159.99 Info: dold.co.nz

To the stars and back While some of us prefer to ride in summer, this chillier time of year needn’t be a chore if you’re wearing good-quality ride gear. NEO’s high-vis Sirius Jacket could fit the bill perfectly. This fulllength touring jacket features a 600D Polyester outer shell with hi-vis fluoro panels, nylon 1680D PU reinforced elbow and shoulders, a polyester mesh comfort interior lining, a waterproof and breathable membrane, a detachable thermal lining, CE elbow and shoulder protection plus foam back protector, an air-vent system, reflectives and an adjustable waist.

Distributor: Forbes & Davies Size: S to 3XL Price: $249 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

Protection Bobbins Bobbin bolts are the little saviours that protect your bike’s engine and bodywork if you drop it. They bolt on and stick out, so if the bike goes over, they’ll hit the ground first and hold the pricey bits up off the tar. You can go for the subtle ones, but you might prefer to make a feature of them with these anodised alloy bobbin bolts from Keiti.

Distributor: Nationwide Accessories Size style: Blue, Black, Red, Silver, Yellow in in 6mm, 8mm and 10mm sizes Price: $19 Info: nwa.co.nz

Leather Legend Don’t let the vintage look fool you. These Stylmartin Legend boots are waterproof and breathable, with an anti-slip, oil proof, hardwearing rubber sole. You may not be a cool dude, but your feet will be legendary inside Stylmartin’s new Legend touring boot, crafted from full-grain leather with a zip fastening and adjustable straps.

Distributor: Eurobike Wholesale Price: $34 Info: eurobike.co.nz

Airbag Vest Non-biking mates and rellies worried about your safety? Keep them calm by wearing a Helite Airbag Motorcycle vest which, thanks to a favourable Euro exchange rate, has dropped in price. Essential for any rider, whether on road or off, it’s worn atop your existing jacket and incorporates an innovative CE-certified airbag system. If the bike hits the dirt, or the rider is thrown from the motorcycle, the airbag vest inflates within 100 milliseconds to protect the rider’s upper body. The activation is simple and automatic, and very, very fast. After a few seconds the vest deflates automatically.

Install a new cartridge, and the jacket is ready to be re-used.

Distributor: Forbes & Davies Price: From $799 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

KIWI RIDER

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Happy Feet The S-Sportour Evo is a new sport/touring boot from TCX, built from microfibre with increased padding for better comfort and flexibility. There’s a breathable liner, a polyurethane heel guard, PU ankle reinforcement with air intakes and a PU shift pad. Plus of course interchangeable toe sliders anchored with two screws, a new elastic zip and a wide Velcro band for easier fastening, and a replaceable footbed.

Distributor: Northern Accessories Price: Standard $299, Waterproof $379 Info: northern.co.nz

Sno-Seal the weather out It’s that time of year where feet can get very wet from wintery weather. But tried and tested Sno Seal Beeswax waterproofing will protect your boots and other leather products from rain, sun, snow, and salt. Other products can migrate through the leather till they clog all the pores.

Sno Seal keeps out the moisture while allowing products such as Gore-Tex to breathe, so that absorbed perspiration can escape.

Distributor: Dold Industries Price: $16.99 Info: www.dold.co.nz

Jacket for all seasons RST must have made the Ventilator IV jacket to match the full range of conditions the New Zealand weather can throw at you, whether you’re commuting in today’s winter conditions or planning that summer odyssey. It can be adjusted and worn in four ways, using the outer along with the waterproof and thermal layers, the outer and thermal only, or just the outer. That means the Ventilator IV is almost a jacket for all occasions – Royal garden parties excepted, perhaps.

Distributor: Nationwide Accessories Size style: SM/40 - 5XL/54 Price: $349 Info: nwa.co.nz

Miles further with Scottoiler The Scottoiler is a vacuum-operated automatic chain lubrication system which increases the life of the chain by up to seven times. It also improves performance and reduces chain maintenance. It is easily installed and is suitable for use on all chain types and all bikes. The vSystem is the universal kit, and there are some bike-specific kits for Suzuki, KTM, Triumph, Ducati, BMW, and Kawasaki.

Distributor: Eurobike Wholesale Price: $249 Info: eurobike.co.nz

Elemental Protection Anyone without a garage – or with one that gets high use from carless family and flatmates – will leap on a bike or scooter cover like this one from RJays. These covers use an aluminium polyurethane coating inside and out. They’re highly water resistant, breathable and heat resistant, use double-stitched seams, and include a durable locking slot reinforced with double stitching, plus a quick-lock buckle system around the base at the middle of the bike cover, and extra-strong front and rear elasticised tyre grippers. There’s even zipper access to the topbox for scooters, and a wide front for screens or broad bars.

Distributor: Northern Accessories Size style: Large, Large with Rack, X Large, and Scooter (one size fits all) Price: $39.95 Info: nwa.co.nz

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KIWI RIDER

showcase

...Essential new ride gear available now from your local dealer.

aerobat nano gel battery Superior in every way to traditional lead acid type batteries, Aerobat Nano Gel batteries are a “true gel type” battery that deliver enhanced performance and from increased reliability – and at an $39 excellent price to boot!

These next-generation batteries use a gel electrolyte rather than your traditional acid and are guaranteed not to leak, making them much safer too. Aerobat’s Nano Gel batteries meet and exceed SAE and JIS standards. Available in a range of popular fitments from your local motorcycle retailer.

muc-off chain lube The lab boffins at Muc-Off have come up with a very special chain lube here. Muc-Off rrp Ceramic Chain Lube is set to revolutionise $29 chain efficiency and performance for all motorcycles covering longer distances.

The unique water repellent, ceramic, non-fling formula penetrates deep into the chain link. This creates a durable protective coating which will guard your chain against corrosion and metal to metal wear, in all weather conditions. An added benefit to this unique formula is that it includes a UV Dye, which means you can accurately see the lubricants specific coverage when using a UV Torch. This also allows you to wipe away any overspray that may have otherwise gone undetected. Endurance Chain Lube means longer intervals between applications, with greater protection for your chain! Can’t argue with that.

ugly fish cannon glasses

neo extreme jacket

Designed specifically for the motorcycle market, these stylish looking glasses are the perfect combination of comfort and protection as the lenses won’t shatter if they come into contact with flying objects at high speed or during a collision or fall. The Cannon also has thicker side frames for added protection and a straight temple design for easier fitting into tight helmets. A detachable Positive Seal/Foam and an adjustable elastic strap that can replace the arms for a more secure fit, add to the standout features of these goggles. See your Ugly Fish stockist for more details.

Hi-vis jackets and vests are increasingly becoming more popular on our roads.

The NEO Extreme should be high on your shopping list if you’re in the market for an all-weather hi-vis type jacket. This 600D Polyester jacket features great fit with plenty of adjustability, CE armour, Reissa waterproof lining and a removable thermal lining. Sizing ranges from S up to 3XL. Also available in all black, for those who prefer their jackets toned down.

from

$79

forma slam dry ladies Look the part in these motorcycle shoes from Forma. The Slam Dry may look like a regular sneaker, but there’s a lot more to be found here compared to your regular run-of-the-mill sports shoe. For starters they are waterproof. And they are also CE approved with a reinforced ankle. So you get the look and comfort of trainers coupled with the protection you want from a motorcycle boot. The Slam Dry is available in Mens and Ladies sizes from Forma Boot stockists and leading motorcycle apparel retailers. rrp

$229

rrp

$279

metzeler tourance next Need some new rubber for your Adventure Tourer? Does your riding consist mostly of road miles? Well then the clever folk at Metzeler have designed a tyre for you. This latest generation Enduro Street tyre features new compounds, profiles, structure and tread pattern for unmatched levels of stability, safety on wet and mileage. Pick up a set today from your nearest Metzeler stockist.

Available in sizes to suit Adventure touring bikes in 17”, 19” and 21” fitments.

Having trouble locating these fine products? Get your dealer to contact Forbes & Davies Ltd. *Pricing is RRP only and subject to change.

from

$219

www.forbesanddavies.co.nz

Words: Ben Wilkins / Photos: Ducati

A hip take on a classic design, Ducati’s Scrambler is aimed squarely at having fun.

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KIWI RIDER

W

alk into a Ducati dealership and you’ll notice two completely different sides to the machinery on offer. At one end of the spectrum there’s the likes of the 1299 Panigale, an extremely focused and potent superbike with stunning track credentials. At the other there’s the new Scrambler. The two couldn’t be more different and are, obviously, aimed at completely different markets. In fact, the Scrambler appears to have taken the ground the increasingly sporty Monster has vacated. In fact, the video most likely playing on the big screen will be of cool guys and girls surfing, barbecues on the beach and having fun on the Scrambler.

So the marketing is toward the hip and happening younger rider but here in NZ there’s a huge cross-section of riders buying into the Scrambler’s cool design. From Hipsters to those possibly in need of new hips, the Scrambler is appealing to riders who don’t need to have the latest and fastest but would rather be more comfortable and not be enticed into losing their driving licence.

With a design nod towards the company’s Scrambler model from the late-60s, the new machine is a lightweight model designed to be fun and easy to ride. And fun it is. The riding position is upright with very wide and tall bars.

The seat is wide and low making it good for shorties too; Marcel, our Kung Fu-trained designer who’s a little under-tall, loved the riding position and the fact he could get his feet flat on the floor. I found the seat shape pushes me to the front of the seat towards the tank, which bunched up my ‘tackle’ a little.

The handling is light and easy and the Scrambler is quick to steer and agile in traffic.

A side-mounted, non-linkage rear shock is adjustable for spring preload only. The forks aren’t adjustable for anything. It doesn’t matter though as the test riders and engineers at Ducati got the damping and spring rates just right. There’s no adjustment but I didn’t feel the need to adjust anything – so it’s all good. I just wish all manufacturers could get their nonadjustable suspension working so well as the

Scrambler’s. The basic suspension helps keep the cost down too. The mirrors give good vision of the traffic behind and are pretty clear although there’s a little vibration bang on 100km/h speed limit. For those relatively unconcerned with speed limits, the Scrambler should top the 160km/h mark quite easily – but you’d better head to the gym if that’s your gig because the high and wide bars will test your upper body strength. Not that this bike is for someone who wants to be thrashing around. No, this is for cutting through traffic on a work day, heading out to the beach or shops at the weekend while making a great noise and looking cool.

The Scrambler’s motor comes from the Monster but has been re-worked substantially. It needs a little clutch slip to pull away. First gear isn’t particularly tall – in fact the gearing of the six-speed gearbox is perfect around town – but it does need noticeable slip to pull away. Once at just above walking/jogging pace the gearing works well. It can cruise at 50km/h in sixth at 2000rpm although it’s a little jerky accelerating from that but nothing calamitous. The exMonster engine is a slow-ish revver and the initial throttle opening response not too sharp.

Sportier, bigger capacity Ducati motors are quite aggressive in the way they leap forward at a sniff of throttle. The relatively docile response and slowish-revving motor make riding around town a breeze, as does the upright riding position.

Accelerating from tickover, the bike pulls nicely.

At 4000rpm it picks up a little harder and even more so at 6000rpm before running out of chuff just after 9000rpm and hitting the limiter at 9250rpm. Let the engine rev and there’s plenty of oomph available for claiming that gap in the traffic.

If you want to pop wheelies, the motor either needs plenty of throttle and a tug on the bars or a quick dip of the clutch to get some air under the front wheel. Being a dirtbike inspired machine, it’d have been reprehensible of us not to try such dirt-oriented riding. After all, a fallen branch is similar to a speed bump isn’t it…?

There’s good stopping power available from the front and rear brakes. The single front disc has decent power but there’s a fair bit of lever travel before the brake engages and there’s not a lot of initial bite, so until you’re squeezing the lever quite a bit there’s not a lot of feel there.

The ABS works nicely with the knobbly-style tyres from Pirelli. They grip well and allow foot/

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Words: Jock McLauchlan / Photos: Geoff Osborne

1200 SE

As the ‘bad boy’ in Guzzi’s line-up the Griso mixes muscle with style for a unique riding experience.

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oto Guzzi’s have a loyal following in NZ with many owners having more than one of these uniquely designed v-twin beasts in the shed.

They’re certainly distinctive; one is never in any doubt that it’s a Guzzi you’re riding, or looking at for that matter.

Our Guzzi test bike is the ‘Griso’ and from all angles it looks cool, giving off the aura of muscle in an Armani suit (like the character Griso in the Italian novel ‘The Betrothed’ after which the bike is named). The 1151cc, four valves per cylinder, Griso is unashamedly big and bold and underneath that well put together exterior lays a slightly feral heart.

I don’t think the Griso is aimed at the rider wanting a perfectly refined motorcycle. My guess is Griso riders want a ‘man’s’ bike, a bike they can really ‘feel’, which truly involves them in the business of riding. I don’t see the type of guy that buys a Lexus wanting to buy a Griso. No, this machine is for the rider who wants to experience a real motorcycle in the more traditional sense... some may call them

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Philistines? But I wouldn’t, because while the Guzzi may not be perfect, in some ways it’s the better machine for that. Why? Because it has heaps of character.

You see, revving that throaty-sounding engine when stationary will rock the bike to the right as all that inertia cranks up.

You’d better have your right foot planted when doing so or 253kgs of machine with a high-ish centre of gravity may just tumble over. The Griso vibrates more than some machines, the gear-shift is clunky with a long action and the drive shaft makes its presence known in the bumps – and at gear changing time. It feels heavy too - in general it’s a bit of a brute to muscle around at low speed, but fine when on the move. However, despite these issues, I wouldn’t call them faults. The more I rode the Griso, the more I started to enjoy its quirks and personality. This Griso is never bland and it’s certainly not boring. I soon began to wonder if all bikes should be this charismatic?

Power delivery from the east-west mounted v-twin is good. At 109hp the Griso is not that grunty for a 1200cc machine, but there

CARC driveshaft/rear suspension system.

43mm USD forks adjustable for compression and rebound damping, plus spring preload.

Six speed gearbox.

EFI 1151cc ‘quattrovalvole’ V-twin engine.

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Somebody really pulled the long straw this month. Our pet ad man, racer and California Superbike School instructor Todd ‘jammy git’ Sutherland got the opportunity to ride Jayden Hassen’s championship winning GSX-R1000 at Manfeild. Best not stack it then aye…?

Words: Todd Sutherland / Photos: Geoff Osborne

O

f course there is an expectation to ‘nudge it along’ when you are asked to test any sports bike.

When that bike is a modern 1000cc sports bike there is a certain level of commitment involved too. Imagine how much more commitment is involved testing a full-fat Superbike…

Jayden Hassen’s championship winning GSX-R1000 to be exact.

Obviously this is a fantastic opportunity for any sports-oriented rider but in the back of my mind I knew I had to write something constructive about the experience, get photos and… of course… not stack it. So, as I rumbled down pit lane a certain amount of trepidation had seeped into what, when viewed on the surface, is an often dreamed of experience.

There wasn’t really any one particular thing I was worried about. But a whole heap of little things were starting to stack up. First off it was bloody chilly. Then I was told I’d get four laps on the Superbike, which didn’t seem like a lot of time to familiarise myself with a 180+hp rocket. There were other little things that didn’t seem to be too much of a bother on their own.

Things like the suspension guy explaining that the ‘summer’ tyres fitted would not stay at operating temperature in the conditions, so as I was getting up to speed the tyres would be getting less grippy. Then, the track inspector informed me there was a decent amount of oil through the turns. These ‘little things’ mixed with trying to get a handle on a Superbike warranted at least a little caution. The saying goes that ‘better a little caution than great regret’ but there was that other part of me that wanted to really give it that nudge.

The first thing I noticed swinging a leg over the seat of Jayden Hassen’s National championship winning Superbike, is just how firm the suspension is. The seat is tall (Hassen is over 190cm (6’ 3”) tall – I’m, err, not…) and it takes a pull on the front brake lever and a back and forwards rock to confirm that, ‘yes’ there actually is some suspension movement.

From the first release of the custom clutch lever and a trundle down to turn one, the bike exudes ‘purpose’. The lack of suspension movement, the drone of the full system Yoshimura exhaust and the strong pull, even at low revs, of the RCM tuned race engine, let me know it was business time.

ON TRACK So my plan for the four laps was to go as quick as I dare to try and keep the tyre temperature up. This is my stream of consciousness…

Through turn one and driving out, shifting up a couple of gears (one too many) for the run through turn two and braking (too early) into the first left hander; it’s easy to get on the front brake pretty damned hard. Down two gears whilst changing direction. Drive nice and early

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T

ake an upright-positioned cockpit sitting on top of a potent triple and you get the Yamaha MT-09 Tracer; a play date that has the ability to bite if you take your mind off the game.

Seriously this thing is part animal and part docile playmate.

Developed alongside the MT-09, the Tracer is a slight tweak on its stablemate, designed to focus on a sports touring audience, which is why you get a set of panniers on the back. I didn’t get the opportunity to ride the original MT-09 but chatting with KR’s Ed, Ben, I think it is safe to say Yamaha kept the essence and made improvements where necessary. To refresh your memories dig out our Christmas issue for more on the MT-09.

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For the Tracer, Yamaha has cooked up an engine that is internally the same as the MT-09 but features a few mapping changes, which result in a load of torque off the bottom and into the midrange along with a serious burst of pace in the upper rev range.

Yamaha has packed the motor with [they claim] the very latest technology that includes fracture split con rods, forged pistons and offset cylinders. Along with the latest tech are the engine electronics, including YCC-T (Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle) which Yamaha says ensures instant and accurate response to rider inputs and the engine management features D-MODE that offers three power character options.

It is fair to say that the Tracer retains the MT-09’s screaming three-pot

Words: Chris Baylis Photos: Geoff Osborne

Yamaha’s newest smoking gun is the MT-09 Tracer, Chris Baylis takes aim.

engine, which produces good torque right off the bottom. The doubleoverhead-cam, 12-valve, liquid-cooled motor is mechanically unchanged from the MT-09 but the intake and exhaust systems have been modified, all without affecting the maximum power output of 113bhp. Our test bike came fitted with the excellent, if a little pricey, Akrapovic Titanium Full Exhaust System which sounds great and I have to assume adds punch to the MT-09’s already strong top end. Get the cross-plane triple spinning in the upper revs and it’s seriously strong.

The D-MODE power settings used on the Tracer have been developed specifically for this new model, and give a smooth throttle response for sports riding through to touring and general daily use. I preferred the

A-mode which is the most hair-raising and it’s great that the engineers have added the TCS (Traction Control System), as on wet shiny tar the rear wheel was somewhat likely to light up [less throttle could be applied I suppose]. You could also opt for the slightly lower power modes.

In the dry, the traction control light flickers regularly to let you know it’s keeping an eye on things when you’re being carefree with the throttle, but this seems to be to keep the front wheel on the ground in the form of anti-wheelie (where is the fun in that though…?). It also intrudes when blasting away from a set of lights. However, the traction control is a blessing on our terrible chip-sealed roads that inevitably have large patches of slippery tar, as it keeps the bike pointed in the right direction

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OFF THE GRID

Words & photos: Rebekah ‘Beks’ Ellis

Beks and Beryl slipped off the KR radar for a few weeks but appeared once again having been swallowed

by Central Otago.

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eryl and I have so far clocked up 6400km, and a quick call to the ever helpful Simon Meade at Suzuki NZ set us up with a full service at the friendly and efficient hands of the boys at McIver & Veitch in Dunedin. Steve was charged with the task and also fitted a new clutch lever to replace the lever stub I’d been using since my snow-induced folly at Milford Sound.

With everything tip-top and a golden slicking of fresh oil in her now purring engine, we headed to SH87 and took a left at Clarks Junction to take the beautiful yet challenging Old Dunstan Road. In the 1800s thousands of fortune hunters walked this track as they travelled from the port of Dunedin to the goldfields of Central Otago. It is a high and exposed route, prone to dramatic changes in weather. The first part of the route is good gravel and easy going,

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however, this lulls you quickly into a false sense of security. Seeing some sheep being moved in the distance I approached a man on an ATV, with four pretty huge dogs and a dead, fly-blown ewe slung over the back of the vehicle, I tried not to inhale too much as I quizzed him on the route.

Ever helpful he explained the gates I needed to go through and how the track was ‘a little rough’ but paid Beryl the greatest respect when he looked her over and muttered “You’ll be fine on that though…”

The second half of the track was rough and rocky with several creek crossings and some fairly steep ‘hold your breath’ climbs and descents, it’s not for the fainthearted. If I had known what was coming up, would I have attempted it…? Maybe not, but that wouldn’t have been much of an ‘adventure’ ride, would it?! The sense of achievement as I lunched beside the Poolburn Reservoir before descending down into Omakau

The second half of the track was rough and rocky with several creek cro ssings gold miners e es in Ch y rl ea e th by ed us ts hu I saw the

was immense. Central Otago is vast. It felt like it could swallow me whole and no one would ever even notice I was gone; I felt small, insignificant and a little over-awed. Then a curious thing, that I’m sure only happens in the biking world, occurred. I was fully laden and filling up with fuel when I was spotted from down the street by a fellow biker. Mike sauntered over and cast a critical eye over my load.

“You came over the Dunstans?” he enquired.

“Yup,” I replied, with only a little smugness I hoped was un-noticeable. “Spunky,” he laughed and a friendship was born. Mike is the proud owner of a 1500cc Suzuki cruiser beautifully disguised as an Indian by his own hand. There wasn’t a great deal that he couldn’t turn his hand to and I

was delighted that he offered to construct a much-needed pack-rack for my little DR – similar to the much-lauded Ventura racks but they’re not available for the DR200S unfortunately. I watched him size up the machine, bend and shape the metal and with nothing more than a skilled eye and a welder he plied the salvage scrap, bending it into the perfect, bespoke carrying system for my gear. This simple, but dreamily effective, system was to make loading and unloading Beryl a breeze for the rest of the trip, not to mention that we looked a much more professional outfit. Insistent that I was not to waste money at a campsite, I was invited to stay in a small but perfectly formed caravan at Mike’s and the following ten days turned into the adventure of

“"You came over the Dunstans?"he enquired

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ner

rt t Pa n a c i br ial Lu P c i f f O XG ld M r o W r

ne Part s e i r e GP ial S Offic ull Moto B Red up ies C k o o R

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LATEST DIRT NEWS

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DIRT GUIDE SERIES OPENER P I H S N O I P M A CH C X Z N W E N ALL RACE TO THE SKY HOT DIRT GEAR

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SHORTLIST FOR NZ SQUAD REVEALED

T

he first test has been passed as New Zealand puts plans in place to once again stand on the podium at the Motocross of Nations – widely regarded as the “Olympic Games of motocross”.

A three-rider Kiwi team will again be sent to compete at the annual Motocross of Nations (MXoN), this year set for north-western France on the weekend of September 26-27, and an initial shortlist of half a dozen leading candidates to form that team has just been revealed.

Motorcycling New Zealand has whittled down the flood of applicants to a short-list of six riders and they are (in no particular order) national MX1 champion Cody Cooper (Mount Maunganui), former national MX2 champion Kayne Lamont (Mangakino), national 125cc champion Josiah Natzke (Hamilton), former world and national champion Ben Townley (Tauranga) and talented Rotorua brothers Michael and John Phillips.

The final selection of the three riders who will eventually make the trip will be announced in the coming weeks and MNZ motocross commissioner Howard Lilly, of Auckland, commented that “while three of these six men won’t make the final cut, they remain just an injury away from being drafted in”.

Lilly, motorcycle sports commentator Neil Ritchie, of Palmerston North, and Wellington motorcycle businessman Mike ‘Big Mac’ McLeod were the selection panel. McLeod will also be manager for New Zealand’s team in France.

Cooper, Lamont, Townley and both the Phillips brothers have previously raced for New Zealand at the MXoN. Natzke has yet to represent his country at the event but he is currently in Europe and racing with great success in the European 125 Motocross Championships.

“We are only three months away from the event now and we still have to hone and sharpen a few things,” said Lilly.

New Zealand has a proud tradition of featuring prominently at the MXoN. New Zealand’s team stood on the podium in England in 1998, in Belgium in 2001

Mount Maunganui’s Cody Cooper (Honda), on the short-list for selection for the New Zealand team to head to the Motocross of Nations in France in September. Photo: Andy McGechan, BikesportNZ.com and in England again in 2006 and, while these were incredible achievements for such a small nation, it has almost become mission impossible for Team New Zealand in recent times.

Team New Zealand failed to qualify among the top 20 countries at the MXoN when it was staged in Latvia last September and that means no travel assistance funds are being offered by the world’s governing body for the Kiwis to attend this year’s event in France.

The Taupo Motorcycle Club once again staged its popular Battle of the Clubs motocross event just before we went to press (see p63) and this annual fundraiser initiative therefore took on added significance.

2016 COTA ARRIVING SOON

M

ontesa has announced its new Cota 4RT (260cc), which is due in NZ imminently.

The Repsol ‘Replica’ will cost $14,495, with the standard bike coming in at $12,495.

The bikes are available from Marlborough Trials in Nelson 03 579 2500.

NAME OUR MX OF NATIONS TEAM AND WIN! Motorcycling New Zealand (MNZ) has asked KiwiRider readers to help name our MX of Nations Team. Simply email your suggestions to admin@kiwirider.co.nz and we’ll work with MNZ to pick a winner. What do you get for your trouble? The kudos of naming our team and a free 12-month subscription to KiwiRider.

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Dirt bike riders weren’t really spoiled for choice in June – there was really just one place they had to be, at Sean Clarke’s big event near Tokoroa.

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T

he opening round of Clarke’s popular annual Dirt Guide Crosscountry Series was, this season, being run in conjunction with the first round of Paul Whibley’s inaugural NZXC series at Tar Hill, just south of Tokoroa, in mid-June and so it was a doubleheader of sorts, with points from the one race being earned in two separate competitions.

Former Kiwi international Whibley had to have his arm twisted to enter the first round of his own NZXC cross-country series in mid-June, but really it was just too much fun for him

to ignore.

This was only time the two series will merge this season – round two of the NZXC series is set for Taikorea, near Palmerston North, on July 18 and round two of the Dirt Guide Series is set for Ohakuri, near Tokoroa, on August 9 – although many riders have indicated they will tackle both competitions.

Pahiatua’s Whibley (Yamaha YZ450F) won the two-hour senior race at Tar Hill on Sunday and Taupo’s Wyatt Chase (Yamaha YZ125) won the 90-minute junior race staged a little earlier in the day, making it a Yamaha sweep for the day.

Whibley said it was really a last-minute decision for him to race at Tar Hill, Dirt Guide series organiser Sean Clarke twisting his arm to show up and ride.

“I wasn’t going to ride today because I didn’t create the NZXC to be a series for me to win,” said the recently-crowned 2015 national crosscountry champion.

“The NZXC series is for others to enjoy. So I didn’t come here today to poach points from other riders; I just came here to enjoy myself

and I won’t be racing at round two anyway because I’ll be too busy organising things.

“In saying that, though, I would like to be a contender to win the separate Dirt Guide Series... I wouldn’t feel guilty if I won that,” he laughed.

“The course that Sean (Clarke) set out today was great, just what the cross-country nationals should be like. There were plenty of fast bits and also plenty of flowing stuff through the trees and lots of bumps and ruts.

A bit of everything really.

“I grabbed the holeshot at the start and never looked back really,” he explained.

“I wasn’t sure if anyone had passed me while I was refuelling in the pits because I was on my lonesome today and wasn’t getting any pit signals from my usual crew... my wife Katherine. So I just kept up a good, steady pace. I didn’t want to ride too hard and I didn’t want to slacken off either... it’s a fine line really... but I couldn’t hear anyone behind me.”

Whibley was the only rider required to complete a sixth lap of the forestry course, because the two hours had not elapsed when he came through the timing zone after lap five, but he was already about three minutes ahead of the eventual runner-up, Howick motocross and enduro ace Liam Draper (Husqvarna TE125) before he started that final lap. Wellington’s seven-time former national moto trials champion Jake Whitaker (Husqvarna TE250) rounded out the podium, crossing the line 20 seconds behind Draper.

Meanwhile, Wyatt Chase finished the junior race two minutes and 43 seconds ahead of Oparau’s James Scott (Husqvarna TC85), with Hamilton’s Lachlan Bishop (Yamaha YZ125) rounding out the podium.

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F

ollowing the sealing of America’s Pikes Peak hillclimb route the Repco Race to the Sky is now the world’s longest gravel hillclimb and as such attracted top racers from around the world. Praise also goes to Tony Quinn of VIP Petfoods and Highlands Motorsport Park for getting behind the event and giving competitors the chance to attack the hill once again after an eight-year hiatus.

The glory of the Possum Bourne Memorial Trophy for fastest Kiwi and also the King of the Mountain title for overall victory were at stake as over 100 motorbikes, superquads, cars and off-roaders competed against the clock, and fellow competitors, as they climb from 450 to 1500 metres above sea level through 135 corners over 14.5km.

In the words of Aussie racer Steve Riley, it’s “Run what you’ve brung” and, with very few rules to restrict modification, this has led to some epic hillclimbing machine builds, including Jason Feaver’s Honda CR600 (putting out 97 horsepower) and highly modified superquads running 150+ horsepower road bike engines with features such as Ian Ffitch’s brake-activated tilting aerofoils to increase downforce.

Red Bull-backed extreme enduro star and current New Zealand Enduro Champion, Chris Birch, made his Race to the Sky debut riding the KTM 1190 Adventure R in the Heavyweight motorcycle class. This is a big 150hp machine and, while the water cart driver had good intentions with his dust suppression for spectators on the lower course, this made for a challenging time for Birch. Once onto the main climb the beast was able to be unleashed to speeds of over 200kph.

On the Saturday competitors got three practice runs to familiarise themselves with the course that climbs from the Cardrona Valley near Wanaka up into the Pisa Range. The three runs give a chance to try to memorise the corners and come to grips with the surface, which changes and gets faster as it is swept by the cars and bikes. As the weekend progressed the course got a little more than swept by the crazy 850 horsepower hillclimb cars with rocks popping out and gravel berms building to slow competitors who over cooked their corner-entry speeds.

With the aid of a helicopter transfer, Nathan McAlwee was able to ride two classes, riding a KTM SXF 250 in the Lightweight class and a

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KTM SXF 450 in Middleweight. McAlwee was looking like the man to beat after Saturday’s runs having laid down a very fast 9m 11s run on the 450. His 250 runs were also blistering and, surprisingly, not far off the times of the larger bikes.

Multiple motorcycle class winner Craig Hyde (Invercargill) returned with his hillclimbing skills and his trusty 1992 Kawasaki KX500, proving once again that the latest weaponry isn’t essential for attacking this hill and being competitive.

‘Rocket’ Ron Kirkman returned on his homebuilt 1000cc Honda RocketRacing superquad as one of the few to have contested all ten previous Race to the Sky events. At the age of 78 ‘Rocket’ Ron isn’t slowing down and seems as happy as ever to be scorching up the hill once again.

Sunday saw qualifying and a top 20 shootout on the lower rally course, which dictates the starting order for the all-important final run where the glory is decided and divided. The drama started to unfold early in the day as two of the overall contenders - Alister McRae and Ian Ffitch - both had technical issues in qualifying and had to swap out engines for the final. ‘Monster’ Tajima from Japan couldn’t add to his many overall victories after losing the rear aerofoil and crashing off the course.

For some the final run is the pinnacle of their weekend when skill, experience and luck come together for a good run up the hill resulting in a personal best time or a trophy. Ian Ffitch put it all together on his superquad for third overall and fastest Kiwi home behind Aussie Brett Hayward and King of the Mountain Alister McRae from Scotland.

For others the final run can be a bit flat; like Chris Birch’s rear tyre, which unfortunately put an early end to his race only part way up the mountain.

Nathan McAlwee came away with the lightweight (250cc) win but unfortunately found a hidden rock while on the middleweight KTM SXF 450 which put him on the ground for a short time and ruled him out of being able to challenge for the fastest motorcycle. This win went to Michael Cotter riding a Kawasaki KX450F. For those who reach the top - and for those who don’t - the buzz of the high speed runs is addictive. To quote the words of Steve McQueen, “Racing is living, everything else is just waiting”.

Racing is living, everything else is just waiting

Words & photos: Greg Wylie

The World’s longest dirt hillclimb is in New Zealand, with over 1000m of climbing and 135 corners spanning 14.5km. It’s epic...

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Get A Grip EKS MX grips are now shipping to Kiwi shores. The grips use a half waffle design, in a pattern and overall diameter created and tested by folk EKS promises are some of the fastest racers in the world. The aim was to get the feel of a soft-compound grip with the long wear of a medium-compound grip, all packaged in a range of brilliant colours.

Distributor: Forbes & Davies Style: Flo-Red, Flo-Yellow, Gum, Graphite, Cyan Blue and White Price: $25 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

Hook up in the dirt What does the current national enduro champion race on? Mitas C18/19 tyres keep Birchy connected with the ground, so they’re his tyre of choice. Designed for motocross competition, these tyres are available in soft, medium and hard compounds to work across a range of terrain. Mitas has worked hard to create a tyre that provides maximum traction but also goes the distance. Birchy will tell you that the tyres last across multiple events.

Distributor: Dold Industries Price: From $149.99 Info: www.dold.co.nz

Operatic mufflers for your bike The Factory 4.1 RCT incorporates the latest internal and external FMF Resonance Chamber Technology. The shorter overall length is less susceptible to crash damage, and helps centralise mass. Constructed from aerospace-grade materials to meet the fussiest rider’s exacting specifications, it is manufactured at FMF’s Southern California factory.

Distributor: Darbi Accessories Style: Natural aluminium with carbon fibre end cap, titanium finish Price: From $499 Info: motorcyclegearnz.com

Artrax digs in Artrax says its MX tyres offer excellent traction, even in soft conditions. Their tyre engineers – released from their research labs only for testing, and who eat and sleep chained to their desks – say they’ve designed a tread pattern that offers great traction in all terrain, improves braking grip, and is durable, too.

Distributor: Darbi Accessories Size: Range suits 17, 18, 19 and 21-inch wheels with 90/90 and 110/90-17 to fit the XR150L farm bike Price: From: $59.75 Info: motorcyclegearnz.com

Butt protection Protect your butt and thighs from bumps or flying rocks with Forcefield’s Action Shorts.

Their unique mix of CE-approved body armour and next-to-skin technical base layer is designed for maximum protection and comfort. The high energy absorbing low-profile Forcefield M15 armour at the hips, thighs, buttocks and coccyx (should you fall off the back) is removable to allow the shorts to be machine washed for maximum hygiene.

Distributor: Dold Industries Price: from $239.99 Info: www.dold.co.nz

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Laser vision for young guns Don’t leave the little shredders out! The X-GROM goggle has nearly all the benefits of its big bro, the GOX. With its integrated tear-off posts on the anti-fog-coated Lexan lens, along with two-layer, 15mm thick, sweatabsorbing face foam, your little dudes and dudettes will see their way clear in comfort and style.

Distributor: Forbes & Davies Size style: Available in new 2015 colours Price: $45 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

Brake pads to last the distance EBC presents the R series high-density ATV and MX sintered series pads, which were designed for the ultimate in durability. Using a sintered copper material made in EBC’s USA facility, these pads are designed to offer high durability, and equally high resistance to contamination by mud, water, sand and grit to deliver reduced disc damage and long pad life.

Distributor: Nationwide Accessories Price: From $45.00 Info: nwa.co.nz

Cross-Continent luggage Touratech’s so confident its luggage is the ultimate kit it sent us no info, but you don’t have to go far to find endorsements. It says its aluminium panniers are 100 per cent leakproof, and we found endorsements from riders sunk for 10 minutes in rivers. They seal airtight, they’re easy to use, and pannier lids have doubled as seats, shelves, levers, beer stands, camping trays, tool organisers, firewood buckets and even bike stands.

These things are truly sturdy, which is why you’ll see them fitted to almost every cross-continent, all-terrain serious Paris-Dakar-style tourer.

Distributor: Touratech NZ Price: From $923 for two panniers and racks Info: touratech.co.nz

Off-road Action Cam The Sena Bluetooth Action Camera Prism provides authentic Bluetooth technology, so you can record your adventures by capturing video and voice on-the-fly. The all-new Prism even features remote control and voice prompt and feedback from the controls. Sena has designed a unique quick-release mount system for motorcyclists, so you can quickly attach and detach it to change your view via the wind shield mount, fog-lamp mount, and side-mirror mount.

Could the Sena Prism be the perfect addition to every adventure?

Distributor: Nationwide Accessories Price: $749 Info: nwa.co.nz

Twin Air Standard air filter Twin Air’s filters are designed to increase airflow while ensuring the highest level of protection from dirt and dust. The coarse open-pore foam catches airborne dirt, grime and sand, while fine openpore inner foam acts as a second filter to trap the smallest particles while ensuring maximum air passage. A thick, flat foam, greaseless sealing ring ensures maximum contact with your airbox, and fused outer and inner elements prevent dirt and grime from being lodged between layers.

Distributor: Northern Accessories Price: $19.95 Info: northern.co.nz

Oakley Airbrake Oakley’s Airbrake MX is the first MX goggle with a lens made of injection-moulded Plutonite, the most optically pure lens material ever utilised for MX goggles, and is insanely tough. This stuff shields the eyes of soldiers in action, which in MX terms makes you invincible. Switchlock tech makes lens changes fast and hassle-free, there’s no bending or warping to distort vision, and the design gives you the maximum peripheral and vertical ‘attack position’ vision.

Distributor: Northern Accessories Price: $219.95 Info: northern.co.nz

74

KIWI RIDER

KIWI RIDER

75

LIGHTER, FASTER, RADICALLY NEW MAJOR BENEFITS

THE 2016 KTM SX RANGE REDESIGNED AND REBUILT; THESE ARE THE MOST ADVANCED, REFINED AND POTENT MOTOCROSS RACE BIKES EVER MADE.

» » » » » » » »

All new 4-stroke and 125 2-stroke engines with smaller dimensions and reduced weight Increased performance over the entire rpm range 4-strokes with updated engine management system with faster ECU, new throttle body and different riding modes 4-strokes with state-of-the-art Launch Control 4-strokes with electric starter powered by a super lightweight lithium-ion battery Newly designed chassis with new frame, subframe, footpegs, swingarm and linkage for better handling/reduced weight Totally revised, modern bodywork design for unlimited freedom of movement and perfect ergonomics Massive weight reduction! The new SX generation sets a new weight standard in each class MODEL » 125 SX » 250 SX-F » 350 SX-F » 450 SX-F

2-STROKE 2016 »

125 SX // 250 SX

MY15 90.4 kg 102.2 kg 104.5 kg 105.5 kg

MY16 89.2 kg 99.9 kg 101.4 kg 101.9 kg

WEIGHT SAVING 1.2kg 2.3kg 3.1kg 3.6kg

4-STROKE 2016 »

250 SX-F // 350 SX-F // 450 SX-F

THE 2016 KTM KTM SX RANGE SX RANGE WILLWILL BE AVAILABLE BE AVAILABLE TO TEST TO TEST RIDERIDE KTMKTM DEALERS DEALERS SX SXTHE 2016

CONTACT YOURYOUR PARTICIPATING PARTICIPATING AUTHORISED AUTHORISED KTM KTM DEALER DEALER FOR FOR FULLFULL DEMO DEMO DAYS DAYSCONTACT INFORMATION INFORMATION TO EXPERIENCE TO EXPERIENCE THE GAME THE GAME CHANGING CHANGING 20162016 KTM’S. KTM’S. AFC MOTORCYCLES MCIVER & VEITCH AFC MOTORCYCLES MCIVER & VEITCH Palmerston North North 06 357068043 03 477030236 Palmerston 357 8043Dunedin Dunedin 477 0236

NELSON MOTORCYCLES NELSON MOTORCYCLES NelsonNelson 03 548033786 548 3786

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NEW PLYMOUTH MOTORCYCLES TSS RED NEW PLYMOUTH MOTORCYCLES TSSBARON RED BARON New Plymouth 06 758064449 04 569043989 New Plymouth 758 4449 Wellington Wellington 569 3989

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MR MOTORCYCLES PATTERSON O’CONNOR MR MOTORCYCLES PATTERSON O’CONNOR South South Auckland 09 237093095 07 346073271 Auckland 237 3095 Rotorua Rotorua 346 3271

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WHEELS OF THAMES WHEELS OF THAMES Thames 07 868079363 Thames 868 9363

HONDA CRF450R

le anged bar subt r is largely unch te un gr g as bi pears Honda’s geometry. It ap spension and y without ilit changes to su ab st r te ching for grea ar se is a l nd though Ho improve overal le also trying to hi w y, ilit ag g sacrificin e. handling balanc grees with Highlighstts gle of 27.15 de eering head an

New m to 117mm trail up one m er 54mm forks with larg er PSF2 48mm ng lo m travel 5m el he • ke. W near the top yo outer tubes up me at 310mm remains the sa ession and on both compr ping is firmer • Fork dam full travel rebound near greater range s effect over a ha t en m st ju • Valving ad ge ratio Pro-Link levera sed, • Updated has been increa ng bound dampi d ce • Shock re du been re damping has sign compression ud-clearing de m r tte pegs with be • New foot

•

HONDA CRF250R

Honda has pu t real effort into the 250cc engi to improve grun ne t everywhere... and let’s face facts here, they needed to. Se nsibly, Honda has only made subtle change s to handling an suspension on d what is alread y a sweet handlin machine. g

Highlights

•

Completely re vised cylinder head, piston and con-rod • Power up to 29.4 kW @ 11,500rpm. To rque is 27.1 Nm @ 9000rpm • Compres sion ratio now 13.8:1 • More open airbox and ex haust. Header pipe has resona tor chamber • 5mm long er top fork tube s as on the 45 • 4mm sm 0R aller chain rolle r (now 34mm) to aid mud clearin g

78

KIWI RIDER

KAWASAKI KX450F

0. It is s to its 2016 45 ude of change tit ul m a e rev e th ad m l throughout Kawasaki has more powerfu is d an ue ability rq st to at e to be aimed lighter, has mor ring still looks ee st e th es re eg range. At 28-d over agility.

Highlighwtsengine design is 2kg lighter

internal All ne ard to reduce et 8.5mm forw fs of is r de lin Cy ction d new muffler mechanical fri tor chamber an na so re ith w er pipe oved mass • New head ingarm for impr closer to the sw ed ov m is at th r wer, with bette centralisation and 6mm narro er ht lig g 5k 1. sis is • New chas teristics ac ar ch x fle e ring head angl 28-degree stee • Revised

• •

KTM SX125

KTM wants to keep pushing ahead with tw stroke techno ology. This all-n ew machine makes that clearly ev ident. Looking at the numbers should be a lig it ht weight and ve ry agile machi that is not shor ne t on power.

Highlights

• •

New 125cc en gine, which is 2kg lighter The more com pact engine ha s new porting power valve an , d cases. Also fe atures a lighter six-speed gear box with a new shifter and exhaust cham ber.

• New fram e, sub-frame an d swingarm, al ong with linkage an d suspension upgrades • Steering head angle no w 26.1 degree s with a 22mm triple cl amp offset • Handleba rs are now rubb er mounted • All-up wei ght is 89.2kg without fuel

KTM SX250F

es, discs en the airbox ad to toe. Ev he m fro y agile, el w m erful, extre are truly all ne suggest pow These bikes rs be d lower m an nu e e g head angl s are new. Th gree steerin de and batterie .1 26 e th g bikes from smaller feelin sub-frame.

KIWI RIDER

79

ECONOHONDA

Metric nuts bolts & washers

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Econohonda

Hex bolts

Hex cap screws (e.g. engine cases)

Hi-tensile steel with bright zinc coating Hi-tensile anodised alloy (4 colours) Engine bolts, frame bolts, fairing and screen screws. In fact every type of fastener for motorcycles. The right type and finish. From 4mm to 10mm diameter, up to 100mm long.

For full details of types and sizes, e-mail eurobike@xtra.co.nz Available individually or in kits.

From $150 to $290

Hex nylon nuts

Panel screws Nylon washers

Proudly distribute by W.M.S (Macro Import Ltd)

84

Unit 3 /249 Ti Rakau Drive Auckland

KIWI RIDER

Ph 09 265 0650

www.2bros.co.nz

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Distributed by Eurobike Wholesale.

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13:32

Dismantling Motorcycles for over 25 years

Action/Atomic Bike Wreckers

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ALSO WRECKING: KTM 580 • TRX400 • Eiger (auto) • CT125 • GPZ1100 • RM 80 • GN250 GSXF250 • LTF300 03 • LT50 • JR50 • XR200 • AN125 • LTA500 92 • YFM250 Timberwolf • 250 Viargo • FZR2502KR 90 • KLM125 2000 • GPZ1100 • YFM450 Kodiak • GSX250F • GSX-R750 04 • VS 700 intruder • Polaris 420 Magnum • Polaris 500 • Suzuki AN125 • 91 ZZR400 • Yamaha MT01 • Kawasaki ZZR1100 • TRX350 05 • 1986 GSXR750 • 1988 Suzuki GSX-R1100 • 1997 Honda XR70 • TRX 500 auto • CG110 • Suzuki DRZ125 • 01 YZ125 Suzuki LS • 650 Savage 2005 • Honda XR250 1992 • CR25095 • CR80 02

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on 09 416 5307

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Spokes for most bikes Custom-made to suit Stainless or galvinised Rims – Alloy Chrome or stainless Drilled to suit All wheel repairs

Ph Tom Morriss 021 313 136 • 09 576 0312 wheelman@vodafone.co.nz www.wheelandspoke.co.nz

SCOOTER HIRE- 4 HOURS $60 fully auto 250cc scooter OK for restricted or full test www.scootling.co.nz/hire Ph (09)360 0717 310 Great North Rd, Grey Lynn

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2/07/15 13:59

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KIWI RIDER

To advertise here call Todd on 021 709 989

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todd@kiwirider.co.nz

KIWI RIDER

89

EVENTS CALENDAR / AUGUST 2015

* Please check with organisers before event in case of cancellations, errors or changes in dates *

open Wednesday to Sunday 9-5pm with a ADVENTURE RIDES ROAD RACING late night on Thursday. Ph: 09 420 8879 or AUGUST JULY for more information go to - 22/1st Sept, Bali by the Back Roads, - 19, Winter Series Road Race www.thesandpit.co.nz with Mike Britton, check out at Hampton Downs, entry fees from $140, www.adventurerides.co.nz gates open 7.30, sign on 7.30, rider briefing JUNE or phone 0212849047 8.15, practice starts 9am. Spectators $10.

- 20/21, Kuratau Community Trail Ride, See entry form for all classes. Download for two and four wheels, both Saturday from form from www.hamiltonmcc.org.nz or email SEPTEMBER 11.30 and Sunday from 9.30. At Kuratau info@hamiltonmcc.org.nz. Next race 23 - 22/8th Oct, Bolivia High Andes, Community Hall at junction of SH 41 & 32.

August with Mike Britton, check out Day One: $35 all day per adult, $15 for 14 www.adventurerides.co.nz & under (no lunch provided). Day Two: $55 AUGUST or phone 021 284 9047 for adults including lunch and $25 for under - 23, Winter Series Road Race 15yrs, $75 for both days per adult (with at Hampton Downs, entry fees from $140, OCTOBER lunch on Sunday). Paddock available for gates open 7.30, sign on 7.30, rider briefing - 24/25, Labour Weekend camping. Ph: Kuratau School on 386 5801 8.15, practice starts 9am. Spectators $10.

Bay of Plenty Adventure Ride with NGARNZ, or Barry on 386 5752 See entry form for all classes. Download check out form from www.hamiltonmcc.org.nz or email www.northerngraveladventureridersnz.com JULY info@hamiltonmcc.org.nz. or call Sue on 021 036 7234 for further - 4/5, Suzuki Western Blast, information Taupo - trail ride with Epic Events, contact OCTOBER Gordon or Claire on 0275 1444 19 - 18, Club Championship Series BUCKET RACING or visit www.epicevents.co.nz R1 at Hampton Downs Motorsport JULY - 19, Trail Ride Woodhill Forest Park, contact Colleen Thompson at - 18/19, Buckets Round 1 with Endless Dirtbiking Trail Rides. Enquiries: colleenryanthompson@gmail.com or at Mt Wellington Kart Track 09 420 8879 (Tony or Louise) 0274231433 contact Colleen Thompson on 0274231433 or email: endlessdirtbiking@xtra.co.nz - 31, Club Championship Series AUGUST - 8/9, Buckets Round 2 at Mt Wellington Kart Track contact Colleen Thompson on 0274231433 SEPTEMBER - 5/6, Buckets Round 3 at Mt Wellington Kart Track contact Colleen Thompson on 0274231433 OCTOBER -10/11, Buckets Round 4 at Mt Wellington Kart Track, contact Colleen Thompson on 0274231433 CROSS COUNTRY AUGUST - 9, Round 2 of Cross Country Series at Ohakuri, includes Junior, Novice Ladies, Seniors, Veterans, etc. Check out Sean Clark 0275996046 or 07 8865918, check out silver bullet or Kiwi Rider for any changes/ updates. Entry fee: Juniors $40 and seniors $50 plus a sausage. Riders best 3 out of 4 rounds count for points, prize giving at end of series. Subsequent dates: Round 3 on 6 Sept at Atimuri, and Round 4 (final) 4 Oct at Tar Hill SEPTEMBER - 6, Round 3 of Cross Country Series at Atimuri, includes Junior, Novice Ladies, Seniors, Veterans, etc. Check out Sean Clark 0275996046 or 07 8865918, check out silver bullet or Kiwi Rider for any changes/ updates. Entry fee: Juniors $40 and seniors $50 plus a sausage. Riders best 3 out of 4 rounds count for points, prize giving at end of series. Subsequent dates: Round 4 (final) 4 Oct at Tar Hill OCTOBER - 4, Round 4 (final) of Cross Country Series at Tar Hill, includes Junior, Novice Ladies, Seniors, Veterans, etc. Check out Sean Clark 0275996046 or 07 8865918, check out silver bullet or Kiwi Rider for any changes/ updates. Entry fee: Juniors $40 and seniors $50 plus a sausage. Riders best 3 out of 4 rounds count for points, prize giving at end of series.

90

KIWI RIDER

R2 at Hampton Downs Motorsport Park, contact Colleen Thompson at colleenryanthompson@gmail.com or 0274231433

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 For 2015 check out Kiwi Iron - Online Motorcycle Show (non profit event) presented via motorcyclealley.co.nz. Entry is free, with thousands of dollars worth of spot prizes, somewhere you can show off your bike. Everyone can view all the best bikes in NZ and vote for a winner. Voting is open Jan-June 2015. There will be monthly winners who will go in the grand draw at the end of June, and one winner per category will be chosen. This will hopefully become an annual event. Check out www. motorcyclealley.co.nz for further Info and the rules.

OCTOBER - 28, BRONZ 68th Blood Run, Meet 5.30 7.30, 71 Gt South Rd, Epsom. Badges $10.

Contact Finn 09 6255533 / 0274846326 or Lars 09 4425679 / 021361312 DECEMBER - 5, BRONZ 33rd Annual Toy Run, Meet 10am, leave 11am, ride leaves BMW NZ Pacific Rise, Mt Wellington, destination The Warehouse, 26 Warehouse Way, Northcote.

Supporting Salvation Army, badges $10.

Bring your gift unwrapped. Contact Finn 09 6255533 / 0274846326 or Lars 09 4425679 / 021361312 SUPERMOTARD (mixed dirt / tarmac races) also see www. supermotard.co.nz/events TRAIL RIDES - “The Kawasaki Sandpit”, Woodhill Forest, Rimmers Rd entrance, SH16, Helensville. The ultimate offroad motorcycle playground. Come & ride, we are

To advertise here call Todd on 021 709 989

AUGUST - 8/9, Suzuki Berm Buster, Taupo, trail ride, with Epic Events, contact Gordon or Claire on 0275 1444 19 or visit www.epicevents.co.nz - 9, Family Trail Ride with Endless Dirtbiking Trail Rides. Enquiries: 09 420 8879 (Tony or Louise) or email: endlessdirtbiking@xtra.co.nz SEPTEMBER - 12/13, Suzuki Berm Buster, Taupo, trail ride, with Epic Events, contact Gordon or Claire on 0275 1444 19 or visit www.epicevents.co.nz - 13, Family Trail Ride with Endless Dirtbiking Trail Rides. Enquiries: 09 420 8879 (Tony or Louise) or email: endlessdirtbiking@xtra.co.nz - 19, Taupo Enduro Race, with Epic Events, contact Gordon or Claire on 0275 1444 19 or visit www.epicevents.co.nz OCTOBER - 11, Trail Ride Woodhill Forest, with Endless Dirtbiking Trail Rides.

Enquiries: 09 420 8879 (Tony or Louise) or email: endlessdirtbiking@xtra.co.nz - 17/18, Suzuki Berm Buster, Taupo, trail ride, with Epic Events, contact Gordon or Claire on 0275 1444 19 or visit www.epicevents.co.nz - 31, Acerbis 4 hr Race, Taupo, with Epic Events, contact Gordon or Claire on 0275 1444 19 or visit www.epicevents.co.nz - 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 0800245387 or visit www.riderskills.co.nz continued on page 92

Custom sports trikes Created individually

by MS Coombes Limited Based on the Suzuki Boulevard M109R We can trike any bike Kitsets available to any stage DVD available 344 St Asaph St Christchurch.

Ph: 03 3667463 Fax: 03 3667462 Email: mscoombesltd@clear.net.nz Web: www.mscoombes.co.nz Web: www.customsportstrike.co.nz

Enduro/Trail CliniCs

Group sessions around New Zealand to improve your off road skills and get the most out of your riding.

onE on onE sEssions

Individual sessions tailored to your skill level and goals.

Trail, enduro, extreme and adventure training all offered.

Check out the website for all available dates, venues and pricing.

todd@kiwirider.co.nz

KIWI RIDER

91

EVENTS CALENDAR AUGUST 2015

- RACE RESULTS -

continued from page 90

MotoGP Results Total

Assen Rd 8

Catalunya Rd 7

Mugello Rd 6

1

Valentino Rossi

Yamaha

ITA

163

25

20

16

2

Jorge Lorenzo

Yamaha

SPA

153

16

25

25

3

Andrea Iannone

Ducati

ITA

107

13

13

20

4

Marc Marquez

Honda

SPA

89

20

0

0

5

Andrea Dovizioso

Ducati

ITA

87

4

0

0

6

Bradley Smith

Yamaha

GBR

77

9

11

11

7

Cal Crutchlow

Honda

GBR

57

10

0

0

8

Pol Espargaro

Yamaha

SPA

56

11

0

10

9

Maverick Vinales

Suzuki

SPA

52

6

10

9

10

Dani Pedrosa

Honda

SPA

47

8

16

13

Next Rounds: Republic

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 4891239 or 0274231433 OCTOBER - 10, Advanced Rider Training, at Hampton Downs Motorsport Park $175 for club members, $205 for non club members, contact Colleen Thompson at colleenryanthompson@gmail.com or 0274231433 TRIALS JULY - 12, Taranaki Trials Group, Practice Day, contact Grant McEwen Ph: 7568256 - 26, SCB4/July Ribbons, Taranaki Trials Group, contact Matt Foster Ph: 7538266

12 July Sachsenring, 9 August Indianapolis, 16 August Czech

World Superbike Championships 2015

Misano

AUGUST - 9, Taranaki Trials Group, Practice Day, contact Craig Thompson Ph: 7566475 - 23, August Cup, SCB5, Taranaki Trials Group, contact Wayne Thompson, Ph: 7569087

Portimao

Rnd 8

Race 2 Race 1

Rnd 7

Race 2

Race 1

1

Jonathon Rea

Kawasaki

GBR

375

25

20

330

25

25

2

Tom Sykes

Kawasaki

GBR

242

11

25

206

8

20

3

Leon Haslam

Aprilia

GBR

226

16

11

199

16

4

4

Chas Davies

Ducati

GBR

213

13

16

184

13

16

5

J Torres

Aprilia

ESP

140

9

0

131

9

5

6

Sylvain Guintoli

Honda

FRA

127

7

7

113

10

11

7

D Giugliano

Ducati

ITA

106

20

13

73

20

13

8

V D Mark

Honda

NLD

97

6

6

85

11

7

9

L Mercado

Ducati

ARG

90

0

5

85

7

8

10

M Baiocco

Ducati

ITA

89

0

1

88

6

10

Next rounds: 19 July USA, 2 August Malaysia, 20 September Spain, 4 October France, 18 October Qatar 92

KIWI RIDER

To advertise here call Todd on 021 709 989

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 0508776643 or 0276998089

OCTOBER - 24/26, NZ Champs Taranaki, contact Warren Day Ph: 067547345

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.

Always check with organiser for cancellations.

Shock ShaftS Replace your bent broken or rusty Shaft! From $120 Motomart Ltd is the Wellington region’s only authorised BMW, Ducati and Honda Motorcycle dealership, with a modern, fully equipped, specialist service centre covering all makes of motorcycles.

We are currently seeking a fully qualified Motorcycle Technician to join our team.

At Motomart we strive to provide exceptional customer service, every day, all the time, and we are looking for someone who shares this expectation and passion.

Our ideal candidate would have these attributes: • Holding a current W.O.F. Authority (this is preferred, but not essential) • Experienced in working with motorcycle diagnostic equipment • Enthusiastic and willing to learn further and attend training schools • Full NZ Motorcycle and Car licence essential • Applicants must have NZ residency This position is full time and offers an excellent remuneration package to the right candidate. Please forward your CV in confidence to john.goss@motomart.co.nz or contact John direct for all enquiries.

• Most Models • 5 Day Turnaround

Bruin Engineering Ph 09 480 9408 Fax 09 4805594

131 Thames Street 2/07/15 Morrinsville 07 889 1007 nvmotorcycles@xtra.co.nz

MOTOMART AUG15.indd 1

We have all diagnostic tooling required to service your bikes.

Diagnostic equipment for Mikuni and Keihin fuel injection models.

HST, ibeat, X1 We have the only MOSS diagnostic tool linked to the factory to update, reset TPS and clear service codes for:

Husqvarna NUDA 900, TERRA 650 and STRADA 650 models.

ATTENTION!!

HUSQVARNA MOTORCYCLE OWNERS NV Motorcycles is your one stop shop for servicing and sourcing parts for all models and years of Husqvarna Motorcycles

1903-2015 Anything Husqvarna, PARTS, ACCESSORIES, SERVICES, SALES The team at NV Motorcycles is here! todd@kiwirider.co.nz

07_JUL15_HALFPAGE_AD_02.indd 1

13:5

KIWI RIDER

93

28/05/15 12:03

NEW ZEALAND’S BIGGEST SELLING MOTORCYCLE TYRE Distributed by Nationwide Accessories (W/Sale) Ltd, Hamilton

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94

KIWI RIDER

Moto gp tour ad 2015.indd 1

To advertise here call Todd on 021 709 989 2/07/15 12:51

I

t didn’t take much more than city commuting and a couple of trail rides to realise our longterm DR650 is a great all-rounder. The trip to 90-Mile Beach (KR March 2015 issue) confirmed my thoughts. It also confirmed the bike needed a couple of modifications to make it easier to live with and to improve its performance as a jack-of-all-trades.

Firstly, strapping luggage to the back of the bike on the mudguard using bungees around a roll bag was ok but any more than that and it was tricky. I struggled to strap my backpack and the roll bag simultaneously. Sure, on shorter trips it’s fine to wear a backpack but it’s, quite literally, a pain on longer rides if there’s much weight in it. Secondly, the wind protection is minimal. Anything over 80kph requires me to pull on the bars to prevent my core muscles from bearing the brunt of the wind. Again, fine for short distances but not for any kind of adventure touring or longer rides.

BEFORE

GODIVA SCREEN I’ve had a lot of solutions to the wind-blast problem suggested to me, not least by our Jock who owned a heavily modified DR for a few years and has something of a soft-spot for the ‘old Dog Rooter’. The neatest solution I found, and bespoke to the DR, is the Godiva screen we featured in the last issue of the magazine.

It seemed like the perfect solution for both commuting and touring. Even better, it can quickly be removed for any hard core dirt riding.

The fitting process seemed simple enough.

Remove the headlight cowl, drill three holes using the supplied template, refit the headlight cowl, press three expanding rubber nuts into the holes and screw the screen on. And it was that simple. Install took something like 10 minutes from start to finish, including re-reading the fiendishly simple instructions multiple times just to make sure I’d not missed anything major.

You’ll need a marker pen, Allen key, a 10mm drill bit and a drill (as well as a screwdriver) to remove the headlight cowl. It’s a simple process but I’ll advise a little caution when drilling – drill very slowly as a 10mm drill bit will try to grab a lot of material per revolution and the plastic is very soft. If you’re not careful it’ll grab and make a bigger hole than you’re expecting. Don’t ask me how I know…

It didn’t take more than the first ride to realise how much difference the screen makes. 100kph

96

KIWI RIDER

AFTER

With easy to attach luggage and a screen to keep the windblast off, our DR650SE has become an extremely capable adventure touring machine for NZ conditions

KIWI RIDER

97