KIWI RIDER MAGAZINE JUNE 2017

KTM DUKE 200

SMALL CAPACITY. BIG ATTITUDE.

PIAGGIO MEDLEY 150

FRUGAL ECONOMICAL COMMUTER

MOTORCYCLE MAGAZINE JUNE 2017

SINCE 1984



STORMING STORNELLO GUZZI ‘SCRAMBLER’ MAKES



MOTO GUZZI STORNELLO KTM 200 DUKE SUPERLITE INGENUITY KTM 350SX-F INTO 350XC-F NZ SUPERBIKES KAWASAKI KLX140G

A CRACKING GRAVEL ROADER

  

SUPERLITE ENGINEERING

RACE CLASS WITH THE FULL RANGE OF KIWI ENGINEERING INGENUITY



ATTITUDE CORRECTION

TURNING A KTM SX-F MOTOCROSSER INTO A KICK-ARSE CROSS COUNTRY RACER $10 INCL GST

JUNE 2017

NEW KIWI MX GENERATION HITS THE USA KAWASAKI KLX140G • THE FIRST WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS ROUTE-SHEET MAP HOLDER INSPIRATION • CAPITAL ADVENTURE RIDE

“ENJOY CARETIME WITH YOUR MOTORCYCLE.” Tom Pages, X-Games FMX Gold Medalist is uncompromising when it comes to taking care of his motorcycle.

With the improved formulas and packaging, the new IPONE CARELINE makes cleaning and caring for your motorcycle a truly enjoyable time.

CHAIN

BIKE

WHEEL

ENGINE

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Take a look at the entire Careline range at www.nwa.co.nz

JACKETS / PANTS / GLOVES

TEXTILE RIDING GEAR ADVENTURE III

BLADE SPORT II

JACKET & PANTS

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$549 $379 JACKET

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PANTS

BLACK/WHITE

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WATERPROOF GLOVE

$139 BLACK/RED

BLACK

For technical features of these garments visit www.nwa.co.nz

GLOVE

FLURO YELLOW

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The

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The

Guide

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2017 OUT NOW

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$

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269

SAVE $69 usually $338

RJAYS UNIVERSAL FRONT RACE STAND FEATURES; Including both pickups for conventional and radial brake calipers - Easy rolling nylon wheels - Non slip rubber handle - Easily bolts together for transporting Adjustable for various fork widths Black #RJ-RJUS2BK, $179rrp.

AFTERBURNER

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$

169

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RJAYS REAR RACE STAND FEATURES: Including both pickups, hooks and swing Arm pads - Easy rolling nylon wheels Non slip rubber handle - Easily bolts together for transporting - Adjustable for various swing arm widths Black #RJ-RJUS1BK, $159rrp.

FUEL BLACK/HI VIZ

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799 SPOKE WATERPROOF TOURING / URBAN

X - FIVE

UPPER high wear resistant micro fibre and PU frame LINING breathable fabric with double density foam around the ankle area REINFORCEMENTS Double Flex Control System; PU adjustable shin plate; polyurethane toe guard, internal HIGH GRIP ZONE heat guard, rear polyurethane heel reinforcement BUCKLES 4 aluminium adjustable buckles, ergonomic design SOLE designed High wear resistant MICHELIN HYBRID MX sole COLOUR BLACK - WHITE RED/ WHITE - BLACK/YELLOW SIZE RANGE EU 38-49 ; US 5-14 $799

C1 Steel Stand

Strong, power coated 1010 Carbon steel stand.

$

WATERPROOF

$

M1 1.5” Phatty Tiedowns

Premium Tie-Down set with top soft loop hook, bottom swivel carabineer and name plate for custom graphics.

299

249 199

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$

C1 Steel Stand Heavy duty non slip rubber top pad. - Anti rock design - Wide 10” X 10” top with oil change access hole - Durable thick powder coated nish - Aircraft quality tig welded - Made from strong 1010 Carbon Steel tubing.

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159

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WIN

15 tents TO BE WON

FACTORY PRO TENT

Buy any SET of Michelin Tyres at a participating dealer and go into the draw to win a Fantastic Factory Pro Tent worth $699.

15 Michelin Factory Tents to be won nationwide.

WORT9H $69

To enter the draw to win a MICHELIN FACTORY TENT you must purchase a set of new Michelin Motorcycle Tyres (F+R) from a participating dealer in one transaction.

Then simply email a photo of your receipt to michelin@northacc.co.nz along with your contact details, the invoice number, and the dealer’s name. Entries close 20th June 2017. Winners notied 22nd June. Tents will be available for collection from your nominated dealer on 30th June.

Prize draw can not be exchanged for cash.

FREE ENTRY WITH ANY SET OF MICHELIN TYRES rt

The new undisputed benchmark for Sportbike tyres

Hyp er

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* According internal tests organised in 2012 in Ladoux Technological Center

As compared to the previous range according to internal tests

Sp t ou ort r i ng

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MICHELIN Pilot Road 2

Feel more secure whatever the road conditions*

The original dual compound Sport touring tyre >Excellent longevity, grip and handling › Softer rubber compound on the tyre shoulders for superb grip while cornering › Harder rubber compound in the centre of the tyre to maximse tyre life

› Lasts up to 20% longer than the Michelin Pilot Road 3 tyre∗∗ › Outstanding grip even in difficult Conditions∗ Except on snow and ice and other

extreme conditions ** In-house tests carried out in 2013

MICHELIN Scorcher 11 The MICHELIN radial tyre developed exclusively for the Harley-Davidson V-Rod , Sportster , Fat Boy and all the Street models

Michelin’s solution for all types of cruisers Life expectancy of the rear tyre is up to 40,000km∗ › Excellent handling and feedback › Grip on both wet and dry surfaces › Original equipment on the Yamaha XV950 Racer

Sco ote r

The MICHELIN tyre developed exclusively for the Harley-Davidson Fat Bob

MICHELIN Anakee III Rediscover the pleasure of riding your sport bike For longer

90% road 10% off-road

* Test conducted by Texas Test Fleet in 2011 on public roads

FACTORY PRO TENT

>Excellent grip in wet conditions › Its radial construction ensures highly comfortable ride and reassuring handling performance.

The radial construction also promotes long tyre life

MICHELIN Scorcher 32

The range was recently approved for the HarleyDavidson Electra Glide, Road Glide, and Street Glide.

It is also fitted as original equipment for almost all the Harley-Davidson Sportster and Dyna models

MICHELIN Commander II

WIN

Derived directly from Michelin’s sport touring Radial tyre ranges

MICHELIN Scorcher 31

Adv entu re

Cu s t om

THE SCORCHER A Michelin tyre for Harley-Davidson®

MICHELIN Pilot Street Radial

Excellent handling and optimal performance where riding solo or 2-up › Outstanding tyre life for the trail segment › A unique look › Chosen by BMW to equip the BMW R 1200 GS, R 1200 GS Adventure, F700 GS and F800 GS

MICHELIN S83 Retro looks combined with modern performance, including particularly outstanding grip on wet roads › Factory equipment on the most retro of all Vespa scooters, the PX 125 and PX 150

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DASHBOARD 20

KIWI INGENUITY CHAMPS

28

PIAGGIO MEDLEY 150

34

KTM 200 DUKE

40

48

We’re renowned as being pretty creative and the Superlite race class confirms it.

MOTO GUZZI STORNELLO

57

NZ CROSS COUNTRY

76

48

DIRTY WEEKEND IN WELLINGTON

As a riding destination for a weekend away, Wellington has a lot to offer.

70

20

Take a V7 Guzzi, scramblerise it, add a pinch of Jock and you’ve got a V-twin gravel road explorer par excellence.

58

28

Is this the pinnacle of commuter scooter perfection? Peter Elliott seems to think it very well could be.

Small and (almost) perfectly formed, KTM’s 200 Duke is a bargain.

JUN 17

The 2017 Cross Country season is hotting up, check out Round Two.

NZ JUNIOR MX CHAMPS

The future stars of NZ MX gathered in Taranaki to strut their stuff.

MX TO XC CONVERSION

38 70

58

Sam Greenslade couldn’t get a KTM 350XC-F, so he made his own from a KTM 350SX-F ‘crosser.

KAWASAKI KLX140G

Step up upgrading teens, shorter trail riders and learner riders, the KLX140G could be just the bike for you.

KIWI RIDER

5

Hello...

H 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.

ELLO... and welcome to the June issue of Kiwi Rider. After several weeks of going through the rules, MNZ has announced a change to the result of the NZ Superbike championship. Sloan Frost was declared champion initially but after a protest by Team Rees Racing, Tony Rees has been given the overall championship title. Turn to the news section for more on the change around.

Staying with the racing theme, Kiwis have long been associated with engineering innovation, with the likes of Ken McIntosh, Steve Roberts and John Britton making waves in the international racing scene. Well, some of that innovation is still alive in the Superlite class.

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://joom.ag/2gtW

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

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. 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: Kiwi Rider c/o Fullerton Motorcycles, Unit 1, 156 A Main Road, Kumeu.

Phone: 09 411 7815 Fax: 09 411 7815 Publisher: Pete McPhee: 027 4 74 8 675 Email: pete@kiwirider.co.nz sales and Marketing: Pete McPhee 027 4 74 8 675 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, Michael Esdaile, Jock McLauchlan, Sam Greenslade and Racing Dave.

On-line Editor: Marcel Norkia Office manager: Linda Glasswell Printers: PMP Maxum

The rules are such that they encourage bike builders to think ‘outside of the box’. We reckon this is one of the most interesting classes in racing right now. Head to page 20 to see what Superlite racing machines are all about.

Talking of Kiwis making what they need, KR tester Sam Greenslade wanted a bike for Cross Country but couldn’t get the bike he wanted a KTM 350 XC-F. A bit of lateral thinking saw him taking a motocross model and converting it. He’s pretty handy on it too. See page 70 for more on his conversion.

Want a route-sheet holder for trail or adventure riding but don’t want to pay a fortune for it?

Head to page 90 for some inspiration.

Enjoy the mag. BEN WILKINS

FRONT END 9  NEWS

15

 ROAD PRODUCTS

ROOST ZONE 55  NEWS

63

 DIRT PRODUCTS

BACK END 82  BIKE MART

Essential services and products for you and your bike.

93

 CLASSICS

86

 EVENTS CALENDAR

96

 ROGER MORONEY

MotoGP;

NZ Superbikes shakeup;

Chain lube longevity.

Cross Country Round 2;

Junior MX Champs;

Next Gen Kiwis in the USA.

Need it, want it, must have it... you’ll find the latest bike and rider gear right here.

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

Grand Prix racing had to start somewhere... and this was that moment in time.

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

90

MotoGP: is there something in the Spanish and Italian water that makes them so good?

 WORKSHOP

Inspiration for building a roll-box route sheet holder for your next adventure ride.

its entirety. Material may not be printed without the written permission of the publishers. ISSN 1177-0023 Cover image: Geoff Osborne

6

KIWI RIDER

NEXT ISSUE OF KIWI RIDER MAGAZINE GOES ON SALE MONDAY JUNE 12

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Rees announced as NZ Superbike Champion

I

t took nearly six weeks to finally come up with a winner, but the verdict is now out – Whakatane’s Tony Rees is New Zealand superbike champion for 2017. This season’s New Zealand Superbike Championships finished under a cloud at Hampton Downs in early March, results confirmed for all but one category, perhaps the one that mattered most, the superbike class.

Confusion reigned in the premier superbike class, with Wellington’s defending champion Sloan Frost (Suzuki GSX-R1000) declared the winner that day, even though a protest had been lodged and had yet to be viewed.

But the outcome of that protest was released on April 12 by the sport’s governing body, Motorcycling New Zealand, overturning the earlier announcement and presenting the title instead to Honda’s Rees. Points allocated at Taupo’s third round of four in the series had been adjusted just prior to racing at the final round at Hampton Downs a

week later and the protest stemmed from this.

According to this week’s ruling from MNZ: “There is no provision within the MNZ Manual of Motorcycle Sport to post-adjust event race results unless from an appeal. An adjustment on the day can only come after a protest or an investigation by the Steward using the provisions of Rule 7.1.1. There were no reported protests or appeals lodged during or immediately after this meeting. It is also the belief of the appeal panel that the original results from Taupo were correctly determined after the race stoppage.”

The 49-year-old Rees was naturally thrilled with the final outcome.

“It has been a massive effort to seek the right result and we are thrilled that common sense has prevailed,” he said.

“The results from Taupo should never have been changed. “I initially wasn’t going to challenge the results, but it was the principal of the thing really. I just wanted to put things right.”

by Andy McGechan

Whakatane’s Tony Rees (Honda CBR1000RR), the New Zealand Superbike champion for 2017

It has been a long time between drinks for the multitime champion, however, with him winning his last national superbike championship crown 12 years ago, in 2005.

“Obviously I had not contested every championship season since 2005 and I wasn’t originally intending to race the nationals this season either. I was merely going to act as mechanic for my boys (Mitchell and Damon), but they said to me ‘hey, come on dad, you’re still fast, join us on the race track’. And so I did.

“I’m probably the oldest superbike champion New Zealand has ever had, but I guess I proved I’ve still got it eh?

“I had a good bike to ride and it was easy to race it. I didn’t do anything wrong all season.

I never fell off or crashed all season and the worst result I had was two fifth placings at the final round at Hampton Downs and that was due to tyre problems.”

Even before this stunning news, it had anyway been a glorious season for the Honda camp, with Tony Rees winning the Formula One/Superbike class at the pre-nationals Suzuki Series and also

winning the big annual Battle of the Streets event at Paeroa in February.

The 22-year-old Damon Rees took his Honda CBR600RR to win the Formula Two/600cc supersport class title in the Suzuki Series and then, like his father, followed that up by also winning the national title in this class.

His elder brother, 24-yearold Mitchell Rees (Honda CBR1000RR), making his debut in the same superbike class as his father, finished the series a solid sixth overall in the nationals, while Invercargill Honda ace Jeremy Holmes won the 1000cc Superstock class title, that parallel competition sharing the race track with the superbike class but scored separately.

“I think it’s the first time we’ve seen a father and sons performance like this in New Zealand,” said Tony Rees.

“At this stage I’d like to think I’ll be back next season to defend my superbike title and hopefully see Damon successfully defend his 600cc crown too. The boys are paying a lot of their own way now and, if we can put a sponsorship package together, then we’ll be out there again.”

KIWI RIDER

9

NO GLASS BALL FOR THIS MYSTIC LADY Spidi’s Mystic is a stylish jacket for women with a modern design and advanced technical features to ensure it does the job both on and off the bike. It includes Multitech removable protectors on shoulders and elbows, an optional back protector, and a removable lining.

Distributor: Eurobike Wholesale Price: $899 Info: eurobike.co.nz

RUBBER FOR BIG AMERICAN MUTHAS Dunlop’s American Elite is the only aftermarket tyre line for Harley-Davidson motorcycles that is designed, tested and manufactured in the USA. The American Elite delivers enhanced mileage thanks to a long-wearing compound in the centre of the tyre, and a tackier compound on the shoulders for great handling and superior performance in real-world riding conditions.

Distributor: Forbes & Davies Size style: Black sidewall, narrow white sidewall, and white sidewall Price: From $249 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

CREAM COMPULSORY, STRAWBERRIES OPTIONAL Ipone leather cream cleans, protects and nourishes all types of leather.

You just apply a small amount of the product to a soft cloth and apply to your clothes or accessories. Allow to act for a few minutes, and voila, leather that will look better, and deliver its best for longer.

Distributor: Nationwide Accessories Size: 100ml Price: From $19.90 Info: nwa.co.nz

ACCESS TO EXCESS HEAD TECH We’re told the new Axces-3 offers the comfort and fit Arai is famous for, without breaking the bank. The shell includes Arai’s reinforced PB super fibre belt, borrowed from F1 tech, and the Axces-3 also includes an effective ventilation system and a Pinlock-ready Max Vision shield.

Distributor: Northern Accessories Style: Range of colours and designs Price: Black Frost $699, Blaze graphics $799 (shown) Info: northern.co.nz

HONDA AND HARLEY CHAT The Sena FreeWire is an adapter for Harleys and Hondas that imparts wireless connectivity to the bike’s infotainment systems. Wirelessly communicate via CB radio, hear turn-byturn directions from the GPS system, rock out to your favourite radio stations — all through your Bluetooth headset. An additional FreeWire lets your passenger join in.

Distributor: Nationwide Accessories Price: $489 Info: nwa.co.nz

GLOVES FOR RIDERS WHO GO THE DISTANCE Seeking a glove for every bike in your garage? This could be it. The Spidi Firebird H2Out is a stylish waterproof and thermo-insulated glove featuring the world famous Primaloft wadding, and soft goat leather. Spidi says that combo should be perfect for both big touring cruisers and adventure bikes.

Distributor: Eurobike Wholesale Price: $349 Info: eurobike.co.nz

KIWI RIDER

15

www.hondamotorbikes.co.nz

www.hondamotorbikes.co.nz

MODERN TECH FOR CLASSIC STYLE No-one wants to sacrifice style to practical comfort, if you can get the whole package, and that’s the philosophy behind these Spidi Mystic bike gloves for women. The classic glove is made of premium goat leather and features a thermoformed knuckle shield, which is hidden out of sight and doesn’t get in the way while riding.

Distributor: Eurobike Wholesale Price: $179 Info: eurobike.co.nz

EXTREME GEAR FOR EXTREMELY ADVENTUROUS KIWIS This full-length Adventure-touring jacket from NEO is constructed from polyester Cordura 600D with a reinforced 1680D PU coating. It features a removable Reissa Waterproof lining, a removable thermal lining, CE armour, ribbed stretch panels, an air ventilation system with waterproof zips, lowlight reflectives, an adjustable waist and a connection zip for trousers.

Distributor: Forbes & Davies Size style: S to 4XL in black/olive Price: $299 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

BUDGET LID FOR NITRO RIDERS The new range of Nitro NRS-01 Torque DVS helmets is now available in New Zealand. The NRS-01 Torque DVS features a MPT (multi-polytech) shell, with adjustable ventilation, rear exhaust ports, internal tinted visor, quick release visor and fully removable and washable lining.

Distributor: Forbes & Davies Size style: XS to XXL in a range of graphics and solid gloss black Price: $319 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

THE ATOMIC AGE IS HERE This MT Helmets Atom flip-up helmet is constructed from polycarbonate, in two shell sizes.

It features vents and spoiler for ventilation in any position on the bike, the anti-scratch visor also has a lock system mechanism and includes a Pinlock original. As for the inner lining, that’s washable and shaped for comfort.

Distributor: Nationwide Accessories Price: $199 Info: nwa.co.nz

THE DEVIL’S IN THE DETAIL Pirelli’s Diablo Rosso III is a sporting road tyre designed and developed to equip the latest powerful road bikes, fitted with electronic control systems. Pirelli used research and knowhow acquired during 12 years as official tyre supplier FIM Superbike World Championship to deliver a bi-compound with wide side soft stripe offering full grip starting from mild lean angle, and a large footprint.

Distributor: Nationwide Accessories Price: From $307.59 Info: nwa.co.nz

BOOT DELIVERS FORMA AND FUNCTION This ladies touring boot is designed to be fashionable, comfortable, waterproof and CE certified.

It features a full-grain oiled leather upper, with a Drytex waterproof membrane. The one-inch heel has a rubber sole, boot closure is via zip and front buckle, there’s a dual flex midsole, reinforced ankle support, and soft polymer padding with memory foam to shape to the contours of your feet.

Distributor: Forbes & Davies Size style: Euro sizes 36 to 41 Price: $299 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

18

KIWI RIDER

With its matte-black finish and blacked out details, there is no ignoring the Indian Chief and Chieftain Dark Horse.

Every square inch of this bike was designed to not just make a statement but to leave a permanent mark.

The Dark Horse is raw, powerful and pure bad ass.

LIMITED TIME ONLY For a limited time only receive Genuine Stage Two Performance CAMS when you purchase an Indian Chief Dark Horse or Chieftain Dark Horse.

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HOME-GROWN

Engineering

Words: Todd Sutherland & Ben Wilkins / Photos: Todd Sutherland except where noted

Pitting everything from over-bored two-strokes to 600cc multis with a redundant cylinder against each other, the Superlite class is the most innovative class in NZ racing. Todd Sutherland digs under the fairings of the trickest bikes in the paddock.

M

otorcycle racing is normally a pretty formulaic affair. For any given class you fit a race exhaust, tune the engine, strip off any excess weight and fit fibreglass fairings. For a given amount of talent, it’s the rider with the most money to spend on suspension and performance parts who’s going to have the fastest and most competitive machine.

Thankfully, not all classes are regulated in the same way, and the Superlite class (formerly F3) has the most open rules in New Zealand road racing. Within certain capacity limits the imagination of a bike builder is free to roam and take flights of fancy. So we took a look at the diverse range of bikes making up the top spots in the top Superlite championships – machines which truly showcase the ingenuity of Kiwi bike builders and racers.

The Superlite class has historically had a strong 400 Supersport-based core with the machines such as the ZXR400, FZR400, GSX-R400 and

RVF400 battling to take the laurels. These machines were allowed to be bored out and run as 450s in the early 2000s, a few years after 650cc V-twins were introduced into the class.

The 450 machines proved competitive once again with riders like Southland’s Andy Bolwell and Scott Findlay competing up until quite recently on what are 25-year-old machines.

Getting a racing formula right must be an almost impossible task, so hats off to Motorcycling New Zealand (MNZ) and the road race commissioner Greg Percival, who seem to have managed it. This last season has been a golden year in the variety of competitive men and machine combinations for the Superlite class.

Kiwi Rider encourages all you engineering types to check out the Superlite class when you are next at a meeting. All these guys are accommodating and I’m sure would like to see a few more creations out there. Just remember to ask, “When’s a good time to talk about your bike?”. Those racer types can be a lot like engineers when focused on a mission.

Grand Prix chassis with a motocross engine

L

eigh Tidman’s WRS450 is the epitomy of the term ‘power to weight’, which certainly springs to mind when you take a glance at Tidman’s set up.

He uses a Honda RS125 chassis to sandwich a Yamaha WR450 four-stroke engine inside, and it’s clear which side of the equation Tidman has obviously paid the most attention to. Having a smaller mass is not only better for acceleration, it also comes into its own with changes of direction

and under braking. The engine produces a modest but reliable 60hp or so and weighs in at 86kg. Combined with Tidman’s own diminutive stature this makes for a super competitive package. The 2017 New Zealand national championship and runner up in the Suzuki Series reflect both the bike and rider’s competitiveness. Leigh did the fabrication and engine work himself at Garry Kidd Engineering. The engine tuning was done

by R&R Powersports.

TIDMAN WRS450 ENGINE 2005 Yamaha WR450 Athena 480 cylinder JE high comp piston Falicon knife-edged rod Yoyodyne slipper clutch Kibblewhite stainless valves and spring kit Stage 2 Hot Cams Undercut gearbox FUELLING, EXHAUST, IGNITION Vortex ignition with 10 maps Taper board carb with custom bell mouth Custom made titanium exhaust system CHASSIS & SUSPENSION 1995 Honda RS125 Chassis, tank, radiator and swingarm modified to take 450 engine Rear wheel hub strengthened to cope with extra power Standard RS suspension re-sprung and re-valved for the extra power and weight by KSS Accosatto master cylinder Braketech cast iron rotor Standard Brembo caliper Battle factory rear sets SBS brake pads Shorai lithium iron battery

KIWI RIDER

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PIAGGIO MEDLEY 150

Economical on fuel and sporting a ‘big bike’ ride, Piaggio’s 150 Medley could be the perfect city machine.

Words: Peter Elliott Photos: Geoff Osborne

T

his mid-sized scooter is easily my favourite vehicle at the moment. Giving it back is going to be hard; I mean, I love motorcycles, but I also really enjoy scooters.

It’s the ease and zippiness, along with huge load carrying capacity that easily makes it my vehicle of choice for a town mission of any sort. And the new Piaggio Medley, is, frankly, a bloody cracker. For a start it absolutely looks the business, the Italian designers have not shirked here, it is smart, modern and colour-coordinated in ways that really work, and that won’t put you in mind of women’s shoes. You know what I mean?

The seat is the same colour as the internal plastic trims, it could be fussy – but it’s not. The instrument gauging KIWI RIDER

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KTM’s 200 Duke shows that a good quality, fun, efficient motorcycle needn’t cost the earth. In fact, $4995 is positively in ‘bargain of the year’ territory.

K

TM is one of the few motorcycle manufacturers which seems to be able to make smaller capacity machines that are as desirable in the commuter and learner market as its bigger machines are in their categories. The Austrian company does this by keeping a strong family design resemblance going through a range, from the top to the bottom. The naked Duke range shows this very well, and the Duke 200 is the perfect example of trickledown design. The ‘baby’ Duke gets the striking design of its bigger stablemates despite being much cheaper to buy.

Small capacity, learner legal, economical, cheap insurance, and great looking – these are just some of the reasons the 200, and 390, Dukes are consistently KTM’s best selling road machines.

Designed at KTM’s HQ in Austria, the 200 is manufactured in India as part of a partnership with Bajaj Autos. It seems there’s a mental block we have to non-Japanese Eastern

Words: Ben Wilkins / Photos: Geoff Osborne

manufacturing – made in China, made in Vietnam etc all evoke raised eyebrows.

But to be honest, unless you closely scrutinised the 200, you’d be hard pressed to tell. The quality of the bike is commensurate with its

price point. However, to me, the most telling items are the handlebar grips, which look cheap and bulge in the middle like the old-fashioned ‘harmonic’ grips fitted to the likes of Triumph’s Bonneville America in the 70s to damp

KIWI RIDER

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Words: Jock McLauchlan / Photos: Geoff Osborne

Scramblers are gaining popularity and Guzzi’s Stornello might just be the most compelling of all for those who might actually scramble say Jock McLauchlan.

O

ver fifty years ago, to be loosely exact, Moto Guzzi’s Stornello was a successful ‘jack of all trades’ machine which saw life in various guises performing both trail and road duties. The 1967 Stornello Scrambler America was, in effect, what we would call a trail bike today. Blessed with a 7kW, air-cooled, 125cc two-stroke beast of an engine, the small Guzzi was a popular machine that sold well. For the renaissance of the Stornello name, Moto Guzzi has also based the new machine around a popular and capable machine – the V7 II, the successor to the brand’s most successful model.

To quickly recap, the V7

II is a nice riding, sensibly proportioned, traditional looking 744cc air-cooled machine featuring a six-speed gearbox. Looking back, I truly enjoyed my time test riding the V7 II - there is an awful lot to like about a bike that

is engaging and fun to ride at real world speeds. This is something that is not easily accomplished or encountered in today’s day and age. To expand on that... Sports bikes are largely boring (not to mention uncomfortable) at the legal speed limit, you are riding so far within their capabilities that there is little excitement. Likewise, with a decent adventure bike you are not even beginning to explore the performance envelope.

But with the Guzzi V7 II, you get a charismatic sideways KIWI RIDER

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DIRTY WEEKEND IN

WELLY Words: Dene Priestley

Wellington is a unique city, with traits that make it arguably the best big Kiwi city to host a gang of adventurous riders looking at escaping the tarmac tangle and yet staying only an arms length away from a soy latte and an email-checking strength cell signal.

One minute you are in an urban street, nek minit you’re dodging windfarm turbines and getting views of the South Island, then deep in a forest splashing through a stream, and yet all within the pizza-delivery range of Porirua.

A

fter hitting the Far North late last year after a lengthy hiatus, I got a wee dose of the Adventure bug again.

However after discounting the option of attending Mike and Angela Britton’s Wellington Adventure Ride due to a chaotic work schedule, I had rider remorse on the Thursday and thought bugger it, loaded up the bags onto Trigger, and rode aboard the redeye car ferry off Waiheke the following morning for the butt-reddening ride south to Wellywood.

It turned out to be the best decision I have made in ages and, hey, what’s the point of being the boss if you can’t escape occasionally to do the things that make a lardy lad’s life worth living?

One thing I had to sort on the ride down was replacing my completely ‘shagged’ rear legal nobbly. It had done two events, namely the Pukemanu and the Far North, including the ride to and from both, plus a bit of scratching around the neighbourhood, and when you get wrist-heavy and tail-happy (my favourite sport within a sport) on the loose stuff, the 600 thumper can fair shag the rear rubber. So a morning tea stop at Darryl August Motorcycles in Taupo saw the good lads throwing on a very

purposeful looking Mitas C-18 while I sat quietly in a corner munching on a Snickers. The tyre was an awesome choice too with little noticeable wear on the remaining 360kms to the Porirua base camp, along with surefooted traction on all surfaces the ride provided.

Cheers Darryl.

After a pretty good highway run, I arrived at ground zero around 4pm. For a trail thumper, Trigger does a pretty good impersonation of a touring bike, albeit with little wind protection, howling nobblies, and a narrow yet surprisingly

accommodating, saddle.

As a Dorklander, I love the way Wellington is put together.

Little bits here, little bits there, stretched out with spectacular terrain on the edges and seperating the burbs, not a big sprawling splodge of a city like the big fella up north. In saying that, both are blessed with wonderful and close-by coastlines, I just like the way I can be totally lost minutes off the tarmac in Welly and yet if I throw a stone hard enough still have a chance of landing it on the roof of the beehive if the wind is behind me.

whats the point of being the boss if you can’t escape occasionally to do the things that make a lardy lad’s life worth living?

KIWI RIDER

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55

Photo credit: Laurans Images

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Groombridge makes it two wins in a row

T

aupo’s Brad Groombridge is threatening to run away with the New Zealand Cross-country Championships again this season and just one more win will be enough for Groombridge to successfully defend his 2016 crown.

The 26-year-old Groombridge took his Suzuki RM-Z450 to another convincing win at the second of four rounds of the 2017 series near Mosgiel on Sunday, making it two wins from two starts and giving him a solid points advantage at the halfway stage of the championship chase.

Anything is still possible with two more rounds still to come, but it seems a successful defence of his 2016 crown is well on track for Groombridge.

Aucklander Sam Greenslade (KTM) was again his toughest opponent, the financial advisor from Coatesville leading from the start, until Groombridge warmed up, worked through traffic and snatched the lead

on lap four of 11.

Greenslade refused to back off and Groombridge eventually crossed the finish line of the three-hour race just 14 seconds clear of Greenslade.

Third overall on Sunday was Taupo’s Nathan Tesselaar (KTM), making the round two results a virtual carbon copy of round one.

Te Kauwhata’s Jacob Brown (KTM) finished fourth, with Christchurch’s Hamish Macdonald (Sherco) fifth overall on Sunday.

“The track was fast and tough too,” said Groombridge afterwards, “The laps were only taking us about 17 minutes to complete. Sam (Greenslade) led for the first three or so laps, but then he stalled his bike in a corner and I was able to pass for the lead.”

Meanwhile, in the 90-minute junior race held earlier in the day, Raglan’s Logan Shaw (Honda) made amends for failing to finish round one, taking the win on Sunday

by Andy McGechan

and crossing the line ahead of Cambridge’s Seton Head (KTM), Hamilton’s Caleb Richardson (KTM), Raglan’s Coby Rooks (Honda) and Eltham’s Adam Loveridge

(Husqvarna).

The series next heads to Marlborough for round three on April 30 and the final round is set for Cambridge on May 13.

Taupo’s Brad Groombridge (Suzuki RM-Z450), now with two wins in a row in the defence of his national cross-country crown

Points only for the best three of four rounds are counted, so riders will discard their worst result, helping to ensure the battle will probably go down to the wire, although just one more win will see Groombridge wrap it up again for 2017.

KIWI RIDER

57

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The GasGas Contact is exceptionally priced, it offers you the option of long range trails with comfort and the flexibility to compete as well.

Extra fuel capacity and a removable seat are an added bonus. A street legal version is also available.

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.

LONG-LIFE OFF-ROAD RUBBER Metzeler’s new MC 360 range was developed for off-road disciplines like motocross, supercross, cross country and freestyle, and you can ride to the venue as they’re homologated for road use. Choose from the MC 360 Mid-Soft and Mid-Hard, and better yet, when the knobs are worn you can reverse the direction to double tyre life.

Distributor: Forbes & Davies Price: From $109 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

OUTRIGGERS AND AERO FOR NEW GOGGLES The EKS Goggles GOX EKS-S includes all the benefits of the GOX goggle frame plus a ‘fit force’ outrigger system, a detachable nose guard and a new ‘flo air’ ventilation, plus four lens channel restraint tabs to help reduce lens recoil. These plus four-layer, neoprene-lined face foam and a pliable urethane frame improve fit and function.

Distributor: Forbes & Davies Style: Available in a range of cool colours Price: $124 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

MAY THE GODS BE WITH YOU The Thor MX Sentinel GP is a roost deflector so light and slim that it almost goes unnoticed while still providing premium coverage. It comes in two adult sizes and one youth size, and has lots of adjustability to give you the perfect fit.

Distributor: 454 Unlimited Size style: Youth and adult in many colourways Price: From $199 (youth, $175) Info: 454.co.nz, dirtbikegear.co.nz

PARACHUTE STRAP TAKES YOU FURTHER RST says some users really push the Adventure III textile jacket and trou to the max when riding in the Australian Outback. From their feedback comes the additional large external TPU shoulder protectors, the improved parachute strap (a strap that goes under the crotch to stop the jacket lifting when riding while standing up) and the subtle improvements to the fit of both the jacket and jean. You’ll also find multiple large adjustable vented panels, a removable thermal lining, and separate removable waterproof lining, so from the depths of a Scottish winter to the heat of the Australian outback, wherever and whenever you ride, the Adventure III has you covered.

Distributor: Nationwide Accessories Style: Silver, black, blue/sand Price: Jacket $549, trou $379 Info: nwa.co.nz

TOUGH JUGS FOR TOUGH RIDERS The 10-litre Tuff Jug is designed to take the guesswork out of filling your bike. Tuff Jugs don’t have hoses, just plonk it atop the tank, and the rim allows the fuel to start pumping in. Once she’s full, the cap auto-shuts, preventing overfill.

Lift it off, and you’re good to go.

Distributor: Northern Accessories Size style: 10 litres Price: $109 Info: northern.co.nz

KIWI RIDER

63

THOROUGHLY LUBE FOR LONG-LASTING FUN Ipone X-Trem Chain Off-Road allows thorough chain lubrication, and corrosion protection. Developed for off-road motorcycles to limit splatter and stay in place under all conditions, it’s easy to apply via a multi-position diffuser with jet power and spray precision. Spray onto the inside of the chain run while the wheel is spinning.

Allow to dry to achieve deep, long lasting lubrication.

Distributor: Nationwide Accessories Size: 250ml or 750ml Price: 250ml $14.95, 750ml $24.80 Info: nwa.co.nz

MAXIMA DELIVERS MAXIMUM PROTECTION Maxima FAB-1 air filter oil is an advanced synthetic formula for all oil type fabric and foam air filter elements. Super-tacky polymer and co-polymer additives attract and hold onto virtually all fine dust particles, while the waterproof base resists moisture. FAB-1 prevents oil wash-out from carburettor fogging and protects your engine, spark plugs, carburettor and air filter.

Distributor: Forbes & Davies Price: $25 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

HOW TO GO THE EXTRA MILE… IMS oversize tanks are perfect for long motos, long-distance racing or just not having to stop when everyone else has to. For example the 2014–2016 Honda CRF250R and 2013–2016 Honda CRF450R 3.0 gallon (13.6-litre) tank is designed to look good while staying slim at the knees and imparting an extra 6.8 litres of fuel.

Distributor: Northern Accessories Price: $499 Info: northern.co.nz

CLEAN LIVING WITH FRAGRANT LAYER The high concentration of P.T.F.E in Muc-Off Motorcycle Protectant helps prevent dirt adhesion between washes. It can be used all over your motorbike, on the frame, chain, metal parts, plastics, rubber and the paintwork, and has an after wash corrosion inhibitor to drive out moisture and leave a non-sticky protective layer smelling of fresh vanilla.

Distributor: Forbes & Davies Price: $25 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

SCUBA GEAR FOR MUFFLERS Bike covered in mud and needs a good hosing, but want to protect your muffler? A silencer end cap will be essential. These ones – for two- or four- strokes (sold separately) are made for Kawasaki,

by Pro Grip, and of course will fit equivalent pipes on any brand of bike.

Distributor: Kawasaki NZ Style: For two- or four-stroke Price: $16.50 each Info: kawasaki.co.nz

ADVENTUROUS FEET NEED BOOTS TO SUIT There’s a lot to like with Forma’s European-made entry-level Terrain Evo off-road boots – protection, comfort and value wise. There’s a boot upper of leather and synthetic material, and plenty of injection moulded plastic protection, plus a suede leather heat protector and closure via adjustable straps and Velcro.

Distributor: Forbes & Davies Size style: black or white, Euro sizes 43 to 48 Price: $329 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

64

KIWI RIDER

from $285

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Urban Norwich Low $249.00

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Urban - Iron $299.00

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Touring - Legend R $349.00

Touring - Denver $259.00

Touring - Navigator $299.00

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Water-repellent leather, no membrane

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CafĂŠ Racer Rocket $349.00

Women Sharon $329.00

Women Yuma Elegance $299.00

Cruiser - Delta $220.00

Trial/Adventure - Impact $399.00

Offroad - Viper XR $375.00

All genuine leather • All fitted with breathable, waterproof membranes

MX - Gear $329.00

ESAKR017

new

New Zealand dirt bike racers have long been among the world’s elite and Te Awamutu’s Rachael Archer was thrilled that she was able to enhance that belief when she raced in the United States earlier this year.

T

here are some who believe now, after her first stint of racing the Grand National Cross-country Championships (GNCC) series in March, that it’s highly likely Rachael Archer will be a champion there in the very near future.

Armed with a Husqvarna TC125 motorcycle, fitted with an oversized fuel tank, Archer was impressive at both the two GNCC events she tackled. There for a “dip the toes into the water” experience ahead of what may be a more comprehensive American campaign next season, Archer lined up to race at rounds one and two of the worldrenowned GNCC competition.

The first round was at Union, in South Carolina, on March 5, and that proved to be a real eye-opener for the 15-year-old Kiwi girl, the 2016 New Zealand junior women’s enduro champion. “What a race! Holy ... there were 697 riders in my race and it was chaos,” she said.

“There were bikes everywhere I was lapping about 200 people every lap. My class started on the front row and I was second into the first corner and grabbed the lead shortly after. By the third lap I was sitting comfortably in fifth.

“However, on the last lap there was a creek crossing and it was spewing with riders everywhere, so I tried to go up a bank and fell off, costing me two positions. I finished the race seventh in the women’s pro grade.”

Archer’s next ride was just a week later, at round two of the GNCC series at Palatka, in Florida.

“I had an awesome race in Florida, sitting in second place for half the race, until I had to pit, where I lost two places and ended my race in fourth.

Words & photos: Andy McGechan/bikesportnz.com

Words & photos: Andy McGechan/bikesportnz.com

I hope to go back next year and get on the podium

“I was still stoked with this, especially considering the other girls are all professionals.

The track was very fine sand and the whoops were over a metre high everywhere.

“My whole time here has been an amazing experience and I hope to go back next year and get on the podium.”

That concluded her abbreviated campaign and she now returns to her Waikato home, no doubt to test her new-found skills on the domestic scene.

Her international trip certainly had people sitting up and taking notice in the US, so much so that both the Kiwi Rider and BikesportNZ. com offices in New Zealand received requests for photos and more information about the 15-year-old soon after she’d left to return home.

Rachael’s achievements in the US have definitely set her up for a return to American competition next year, or perhaps the year after that. “This trip was just to see how I’d go. I’d have to take nine months off school to do the whole series and that may have to wait until I’m

finished with schooling,” she laughed.

“I couldn’t have done any of this without all the support. I’d like to say a huge thanks to everyone including Richard Ebbett at MotoSR suspension, for all the help to get my bike set up. Roger Boyles at Dr Trim, for making sure my seat looks sick and has lots of grip. Fox New Zealand for hooking me up with gear, and, of course, Shaun Prescott at the Husqvarna off road team for everything too.”

CAMBRIDGE TEEN

LIVING DREAM

Just like his close friend and riding mate Rachael Archer, Cambridge teenager Ashton Grey has been “living the dream” by racing in the United States this season.

I

n his first major overseas experience, the 17-year-old Yamaha rider took on some of the best cross-country racers in the world when he competed for the first time in the Grand National Crosscountry Championships (GNCC) in early March.

New Zealand has a fine history in this event, fellow Kiwi Yamaha ace Paul Whibley having won the GNCC outright in 2009 and again in 2012, but now it was the turn of the younger brigade to step forward and be counted, with Grey taking his Yamaha YZ250X to race at the opening round of 13 in the 2017 series near Union, in South Carolina.

He crossed the finish line 71st overall, and 10th overall in his class, a staggering result on debut at this level. “I had a really good race and crossed the line in eighth overall in 250A class, but it turns out there was a penalty, which put me back in 10th.

“At the start I was really nervous as there is nothing like it back in New Zealand, as there are hundreds of people at the start line watching. The number of riders in my race KIWI RIDER

67

Sam Greenslade couldn’t get the cross country bike he wanted, so turned a 2017 KTM SX-F into the bike he was after.

I

have a confession to make... It wasn’t until after I had ridden Sam Greenslade’s KTM 350 cross country weapon that I knew it was an SX-F model. I know...!

But in my defence, Sammy is the current KR princess and simply can’t ride anything that looks even remotely standard.

I had mistaken the bling for personalising his ride and assumed it was an XC-F 350; after all, it is his cross country race bike.

Cutting Sam some slack... the only reason it is a SX-F is because an XC-F was not available at the time he needed a bike. Sam has outlined his changes in the boxout below, but in a nutshell, I rode the bike with a WP Trax shock, WP wire spring Cone valve forks, an IMS big quick fill tank and a 19-inch rear wheel with a Michelin sand tyre... he normally runs an 18-inch rear wheel, but put the 19 on for the sandy conditions of my test ride. Say what you like about Sammy... but he’s always been all heart to me.

The first thing I noticed riding the converted motocrosser is how light the machine feels.

Having spent the morning riding a Japanese 450 Enduro bike, the lightness contrast of

Words: Jock Mclauchlan / Photos: Geoff Osborne

Sam’s 350 was stark it stuck out like the dog’s proverbial. Power wise they’re impressive. Peak power is some 58hp (fark...) with a rev ceiling of 13,400rpm, making for an extremely wide and useable power range – the top end is truly searing. The only weak spot is the bottom third of the rev range which isn’t particularly gutsy. It is

by no means poor, but riders expecting the 350 to easily pull a high rear from low revs will find the engine wanting.

However, this is harsh criticism and a little unfair because only those riders used to very powerful torquey motors will ever notice – most will simply be blown away by the strength, breadth and ease of use of the KTM 350

powerplant. In all reality, I’m not sure this 350 engine does have a weak point once fully acclimatised to its power delivery; what I would say though is this – you will need to be fit and on your game to keep it in, and master, the high rpm intensity of this motor. However, nonelite riders will still love the mellower-by-comparison

mid-range, and the excitement the top-end provides on the faster open terrain. Yes, for the majority this engine will take some beating.

I can’t comment on the suspension action with regard to a standard bike... even Sam never rode the bike with the production components. What I can say is the suspension works well, it takes big hits OK

and coped with flat landings nicely while remaining controlled. It does still bottom out, but not alarmingly so. The mid-speed damping seemed a little harsh which is tiring on a cross country bike, so isn’t ideal in that respect. Overall I’d rate the suspension as bloody good, but still requiring a little fiddling to really get it working well.

I never noticed the size of the big IMS fuel tank even though it certainly looks a lot larger than the standard 7-litre MX tank. In a three hour race you only need to stop once, but it will do a two hour without stopping – so it’s a great size and probably advantage... certainly at the pointy end of the field.

Other than personalising

(handle bar position etc) the bike to suit, Sammy’s KTM 350 motocrosser turned cross country racers steers and feels largely like all other KTMs, which is front of pack level. As a race bike KTM and Husqvarna machines are top notch, they dominate offroad sales for a reason and a little Sammy treatment only ever seems to make them better.

KIWI RIDER

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With full-size wheels and a perky motor, the Kawsaki KLX140G is the perfect stepping stone for teenagers and adults alike.

Words: Peter Elliott / Photos: Geoff Osborne

D

elivered fresh and green, sparkling and new the little Kawasaki KLX140 reminded me of something and I couldn’t quite get my head round it... It was small, yes; compact, yet fine and ablelooking. The Showa front forks are encased in full retro black rubber gaiters, and it looks light and ready to pounce. There’s a slope to the rear swingarm that just beckons you to get this little bike out and onto the dirt.

It’s attractive, like a young colt is attractive, finely muscled yet full of promise to come. And then it strikes me. It reminds me of nothing so much as a Gazelle; fine in the leg, yet terrifically quick, sleek and surprisingly agile.

Looking over the bike, the finish is flawless, as you’d expect from a top manufacturer, and it is pleasing to see that this is a purpose-built bike, meant as a serious step up from the clutchless and the learners’ paddock. It’s a powerful single cylinder, air-cooled, SOHC, fourstroker with electric start and digital electronic ignition. The tank

holds around 5 litres, delivered through a Keihin PB20 carb.

A smooth and lineal fivespeed box is beautifully linked and delivers solid and easy progression to speed.

The clutch is light and long, and

power is again excellent and easily manageable, The hydraulic lines are routed cleanly and well covered.

The seat height is 860mm and will be a stretch for younger kids (the 140L offers a lower seat

used in tight turns slips easily with no sign of grab or fade. Stopping is provided by Nissin hydraulics, to a 220mm petal disc, dual piston at the front, and the same to a 190mm disc with single piston caliper at the rear. Stopping

height and smaller wheels), but this is a perfect transitional bike for kids and young adults. The engine is smooth and tractable with good low end torque and with a reported redline of 10.5k, it has heaps of range.

KIWI RIDER

77

The

Dirt

www.dirtguide.co.nz Guide

2017

CROSS CROSS COUNTRY COUNTRY SERIES SERIES

CROSS COUNTRYSUNDAYS 14th May Round 1 Ohakuri 25th June Round 2 Tar Hill 9th July Round 3 Ohakuri

Rounds 1 & 3 qualify as Round 1 & 2 of NZXC Series

Dirt Guide Cross Country Series: All rounds are sign posted from SH 1 south of Tokoroa.

Classes:- Juniors (3km track) - - 7-11 yrs MX - - 7-11 yrs Trail - Juniors (10km track) - - 12-15 yrs, MX 85cc 2 stroke / 150cc 4 stroke - - 12-15 yrs, up to 200cc 2 stroke - - 12-15 yrs, up to 250cc 4 stroke - Novice ladies all capacities.

- Seniors - - 0-200 2 stroke Ex/Int - - 201-Open 2 stroke Ex/Int - - 0-300 4 stroke Ex/Int - - 301-Open 4 Stroke Ex/Int - - Vets 40-49 Ex/Int - - Vets 50+ - - Ladies (all capacities)

82

KIWI RIDER

Terrain: Forestry based tracks Junior (small race) 3k course Juniors (big course) race (approx 10km loop) starts at 9:30am and is one and a half hours long Seniors race (approx 20km loop) starts at 12:30am and is two hours long Organiser: Forest Trail Events Contact: Sean & Adele Ph: 07 886 5918 or 027 599 6046 Sign On: Juniors need to sign in between 8am and 9am. Seniors between 8am and 11.30am.

Entry Fee · Juniors $50 · Seniors $60 Food for sale throughout the day Prize giving at the end of the series for overall points.

To advertise here call Todd on 021 709 989

SuSpenSion Servicing from $180 for forks / $130 Shocks

Get the most out of your bike and your riding.

Drop your bike in on the way back from Woodhill.

We are next to the Firestone shop main road Kumeu.

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2016 NINJA 300 Naked $6799.00 + ORC

2017 Vulcan 900 $14900.00 + ORC

2017 Sherco ST250 $10,500.00

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2016 KLE1000 Versey $15,995.00 plus ORC new green

2016 Mule pro-fx 800cc petrol $22,900.00 + GST comes with free windscreen & wiper kit, roof kit & tow bar

2016 NINJA 300 KTR $7490.00 + ORC

All road bikes purchased will be delivered freight FREE within in New Zealand to the nearest depot

Marlborough Motorcycles

53 Grove Rd, Blenheim, Phone: 03 579 2500 Mobile: 027 230 3151

DEALER ENQUIRIES WELCOME MARLBOROUGH_JUN17.indd 1

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ALL PRICES INCLUDE GST todd@kiwirider.co.nz

KIWI RIDER

83

27/04/17 11:34 A

ECONOHONDA

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

Want someone who knows bikes and knows how they should be handled?

84

KIWI RIDER

We SpecialiSe in ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Cars and bikes Vintage/Classic/Modern Competition Wheels Rim Drilling Custom Made Spokes Wheel building & Truing Complete Wheel Restoration

Hamco Industries 410 Green Rd, R.D. 6, Palmerston North.

Ph Craig on 06 324 8345 or 027 231 7864

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

To advertise here call Todd on 021 709 989

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

Let us find the best quote for you.

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Bailey_JUN17.indd 1

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EVENTS CALENDAR / JUN 2017

* PLEASE CHECK WITH ORGANISERS BEFORE EVENT IN CASE OF CANCELLATIONS, ERRORS OR CHANGES IN DATES *

ADVENTURE RIDES MAY - 29/9 June, Bali by the Backroads,

JUNE - 10/11, Suzuki Berm Buster,

JUNE - 21/9 July, Into Outer Mongolia,

JULY - 8/9, Suzuki Berm Buster,

AUGUST - 1/13, Venture into Vietnam,

AUGUST - 12/13, Suzuki Western Blast,

SEPTEMBER - 1/15, High Andes Bolivia,

SEPTEMBER - 9/10, Suzuki Berm Buster,

a 12 day tour of Bali, check out www.adventurerides.co.nz

four wheel drive option also available, check out www.adventurerides.co.nz

check out www.adventurerides.co.nz

check out www.adventurerides.co.nz

- 22/5 Oct, Viva!Cuba!,

check out www.adventurerides.co.nz

DECEMBER - 9/11, Hanmer Springs Safari,

$1349 full package, contact Mike re accom/meal options, route sheet, self-navigated ride, big bike and pillion friendly, all brands of adventure ride motorbikes are welcome, contact Mike at 0212849047 or mike@adventurerides.co.nz or visit www.adventurerides.co.nz (postponed from 1-3 April)

Wainui Taupo, check out www.epicevents.co.nz

Wainui Taupo, check out www.epicevents.co.nz

Western Bays Taupo, check out www.epicevents.co.nz

Wainui Taupo, check out www.epicevents.co.nz

OCTOBER - 14/15, Suzuki Desert Storm,

Karioi Ohakune, check out 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.

CROSS COUNTRY

TRAINING DAYS

OCTOBER

- RiderSkills Motorcycle Training

- 28, Acerbis 4 hour, Crosscountry race, Tahorakuri-Taupo, check out www.epicevents.co.nz

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 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

MAY - 7, Kinleith Classic Vinduro at Tokoroa,

check out www.vinduronz.com

- 7/8, Suzuki Western Blast,

Western Bays Taupo, check out www.epicevents.co.nz

86

KIWI RIDER

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

- 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-roadrideout/ or ring 0508 77 66 43 or 027 699 8089

- 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

To advertise here call Todd on 021 709 989

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) 411-7815 or email admin@kiwirider.co.nz.

Always check with organiser for cancellations.

SERVICES Get your company noticed here from a trifling $90 PH: 021 709 989

WHEEL & SPOKE SERVICES ☛ 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 wheelman1@vodafone.co.nz www.wheelandspoke.co.nz

Cash Paid

SCOOTER HIRE- 4 HOURS $60 MSW_JUN17.indd 1

fully auto 250cc scooter

Bike Jackets Bike Pants Bike Boots

27/04/17 10:21 AM

OK for restricted or full test

257 Onehunga Mall Rd, Onehunga, Auckland, NZ

www.scootling.co.nz/hire Ph (09)360 0717

P: 09 636 5296 M: 021 0256 7945

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Buy SCOOTLING_AUG15_45X45.indd 1

2/07/15 13:59

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31/03/16 10:37 AM

Get your company noticed here from a trifling $52 PH: 021 709 989

Custom Chambers motorcycle exhausts Is this the best value improvement you can make?

Catalytic converter substitution from $290 - More Power - Better Fuel economy - Better Sound - Less Weight

KTM 390-$290 KTM 1290-$290 Triumph Thunderbird-$350

Agents for Micron Scorpion 30A Kerwyn Ave, East Tamaki. Ph 09 2741155

www.customchambers.co.nz

todd@kiwirider.co.nz

KIWI RIDER

87

- NZ RACE RESULTS MX GP 2017

Europe

Italy

Mexico

Argentina

Indonesia

Qatar

Bike

Country Total

Race 2 Race 1

Race 2

Race 1

Race 2

Race 1

Race 2

Race 1 Race 2 Race 1

Race 2

Race 1

1

Tim Gajser

Honda

SLO

234

18

15

25

20

25

25

25

25

0

14

22

20

2

Antonio Cairoli

KTM

ITA

220

25

12

22

25

22

18

16

12

0

18

25

25

3

Gautier Paulin

Husaberg FRA

192

22

25

15

18

20

20

18

15

0

8

16

15

4

Jeremy Van Horebeek Yamaha

BEL

182

16

22

13

15

16

16

20

22

0

11

15

16

5

Evgeny Bobryshev

Honda

RUS

176

13

18

20

14

7

22

22

16

0

12

14

18

6

Clement Desalle

Kawasaki BEL

172

7

14

16

16

15

13

11

20

0

20

18

22

7

Romain Febvre

Yamaha

FRA

131

15

10

4

13

14

10

13

18

0

3

20

11

8

M Nagl

Husaberg GER

116

10

11

12

10

13

14

15

13

0

0

5

13

9

Shaun Simpson

Yamaha

GBR

105

8

9

7

11

6

9

8

11

0

25

7

4

10

Glenn Coldenhoff

NED

KTM

101

11

13

11

4

10

4

0

7

0

22

13

6

Next rounds: May 7 Latvia

MotoGP 2017 Round 3 America Round 2 Argentina

Round 1 Qatar

1

Valentino Rossi

Yamaha

ITA

Total 56

Round 4 Spain

20

20

16

2

Maverick Vinales

Yamaha

SPA

50

0

25

25

3

Marc Marquez

Honda

SPA

38

25

0

13

4

Andrea Dovizioso

Ducati

ITA

30

10

0

20

5

Cal Crutchlow

Honda

GBR

29

13

16

0

6

Dani Pedrosa

Honda

SPA

27

16

0

11

7

Johann Zarco

Yamaha

FRA

22

11

11

0

8

Jonas Folger

Yamaha

GER

21

5

10

6

9

Scott Redding

Ducati

GBR

21

4

8

9

10

Jack Miller

Honda

AUS

21

6

7

8

Next Rounds: Spain May 7, France May 21, Italy June 4

WSBK 2017

Total after Aragon Rd 3

Total after Motul Thai Rd 2

3 race meetings

Race 2

Race 1

2 race meetings

Race 2

Race 1

Total

Phillip Island Rd 1 Race 2

Race 1

1

Jonny Rea

Kawasaki

GBR

145

20

25

100

25

25

50

25

25

2

Chas Davies

Ducati

GBR

95

25

0

70

10

20

40

20

20

3

Tom Sykes

Kawasaki

GBR

91

13

16

62

20

16

26

10

16

4

Marco Melandri

Ducati

ITA

81

16

20

45

16

13

16

16

0

5

Alex Lowes

Yamaha

GBR

65

3

13

49

13

10

26

13

13

6

Mark Van der Mark

Yamaha

NED

49

11

11

27

0

11

16

9

7

7

Jordi Torres

BMW

ESP

48

9

10

29

11

9

9

0

9

8

Xavi Fores

Ducati

ESP

44

10

0

34

8

5

21

11

10

9

Leon Camier

MV Agusta

GBR

38

6

5

27

0

8

19

8

11

Aprilia

IRL

30

7

8

15

1

0

14

6

8

10 Eugene Laverty

Next rounds: Dutch April 28, Italy May 12, UK May 26, Riviera de Rimini June 16 88

KIWI RIDER

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

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07 868 9363

TE AWAMUTU: THAMES:

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04 528 9395

Joe Lett Limited

06 345 8599

Warkworth Motorcycles

09 425 8535

Harley Speed & Custom Motorad Richard’s Motorcycle Services Scooterazzi Ltd TSS Red Baron Motorcycles Wellington Motorcycle Centre

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ASHBURTON: BALCLUTHA: BLENHEIM:

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03 579 2500

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03 477 0236 03 456 3633

Hughes Motor Services Ltd

03 768 6288

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03 208 0174 03 208 5271

CHRISTCHURCH:

DUNEDIN:

GREYMOUTH: GORE:

INVERCARGILL:

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Spring Lynne Motorcycles

03 302 4939

MOTUEKA:

Murray Thorn Motorcycles

03 528 9992

Filco Farm & Sport Morley Motorcycle & Marine Nelson Motorcycle Centre

03 547 2420 03 544 8703 03 548 3786

Young Motors Ltd

03 434 5354

Ewan Allan Honda

03 486 1222

NELSON:

OAMARU: OTAGO:

PICTON:

Picton Tools & Tyres

03 573 5413

Bob McCleary Yamaha

03 313 2041

Dwains Service Centre

03 204 8455

Timaru Honda Timaru Yamaha

03 688 2447 03 688 7611

RANGIORA: TAPANUI: TIMARU:

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03 236 7993

Canterbury Honda

03 312 7927

WOODEND:

18-23 OcTObeR PHILLIP ISLAND MOTO2 / MOTO3 / ASBK / Aus 600 Supersport / MotoGP Expo

Lorenzo • Rossi • Marquez • Vinales • Espargaro Ducati • Yamaha • Honda • Suzuki • KTM $2495 Tour price includes:

KB Motorcycles Southern Suzuki METHVEN:

2017 AUSTRALIAN MOTO GP TOUR

• Return airfares from Christchurch, Wellington or Auckland • Transfer Melbourne to Phillip Island • Accommodation on the island • Daily transfers to race track • Insurance and security taxes • Four nights meals and entertainment Kiwi Rider style LIMITED SPACES, APPLY EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT For more information or to request a booking form call 021 709 989 or email motogptour@kiwirider.co.nz

Pirelli test over 1,700 Motorcycle Models every year to ensure the correct tyre fitment is recommended for all motorcycles. Talk to an authorised Pirelli Stockist next time your bike is in need of tyres.

Ride Safe, Ride www.pirelli-moto.com I www.nwa.co.nz

todd@kiwirider.co.nz

KIWI RIDER

89

TO HEAR THIS. THAT’S WHY.

RACING STYLE. URBAN EDGE. The new Street Cup’s stripped-back, urban sports styling adds stunning ‘street racer’ attitude to the Street Twin family. With thrilling performance from the 900cc high torque Bonneville engine, the Street Cup is perfect for a blast around town, or escaping it all on twisty B roads.

To find out more visit: triumphmotorcycles.co.nz

Classics

Words: Rhys Jones / Photos: Supplied

THE FIRST WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

W

orld Championship motorcycle racing didn’t start until 1949, although the first organised races took place in 1946 following World War Two. Conditions at that time were anything but ideal for motor sport, some raw materials were rationed, and 72 was the highest octane petrol available.

There was little enthusiasm for the development of racing motorcycles. Only pump fuel was permissible at race meetings, compared with before the war, when a combination of benzene and benzol produced an octane rating of up to 100.

However, as often happens in times of adversity, positive developments began to appear. Norton launched its new ‘works’ team in 1947, featuring three riders. The sport’s controlling body met in London in 1948 and decided that the first World

Championship should start the following year, consisting of six rounds; Switzerland, Holland, Belgium, Italy, the Isle of Man, and Ulster. The first season produced a bonanza for British machines in the larger capacity classes. In the 500cc class, there were six, out of the first ten placings; three Nortons, two AJS and a Velocette. In the 350 class, all the top ten were British; AJS, Velocette, and Norton again. The mystery is that Italy, a country that had been ravaged by the war only four years earlier, could take out nine of the first ten places in the 250 class, and all ten in the 125 class. I suppose it is just as mysterious how another country, Japan, also devastated by the war, could dominate all classes of racing twenty years later, but that’s another story.

Early success was limited.

British bikes took out only two 500cc riders’ World Championships in the entire fifty years of World

Les Graham at speed on the AJS in the 1949 Senior TT in the Isle of Man. He narrowly missed victory

Increased cylinder head finning to cool the AJS engine resulted in the name Porcupine

Championship racing in that class. They were AJS in 1949 and Norton in 1951.

Perhaps the last grand stand performance from British machinery was in 1964 when World Champion Mike Hailwood on an MV Agusta was followed by four Nortons and five Matchlesses, although Nortons were still making the top ten until 1969. The two riders to win the title on British machinery were Les Graham on an AJS, and Geoff Duke

on a Norton. The two bikes had very different gestation periods, but the Norton survived longer than any other racebred British bike.

AJS took the manufacturers’ championship in 1949, Norton in 1950 and 1951.

The AJS that Les Graham rode was known as the Porcupine. The basic design was conceived during the war and based on the success of super-charged BMW and Gilera 500s before the war in

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