KIWI RIDER MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2016

KTM 690 DUKE R

MORE FUN THAN A BOX OF FROGS

YAMAHA XSR700

MODERN WITH A SPLASH OF RETRO

MOTORCYCLE MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2016

SINCE 1984

 

YAMAHA MT-03 HUSQVARNA FC250 YAMAHA XSR700 KTM 690 DUKE R YAMAHA YZ250F MADAGASCAR ADVENTURE    

REVERSE PSYCHOLOGY

MORE POWER, BETTER HANDLING THE 2017 YZ250F TURNS IT UP

$10 INCL GST

OCTOBER 2016

HONDA’S V-FOURS • HUSQVARNA FC250 USED & ABUSED NZXC & DIRT GUIDE • DUNCAN WINS IN THE NETHERLANDS THE LOVE OF SMALL BIKES • KIWIS AT REDBULL ROMANIACS

PISTA GP GRAN PREMIO ITALIA CARBON BLACK Sizes S/56 - 2XL/64

Sizes S/56 - XL/62

Sizes S/56 - L/60

$1295.00

$999.00

INTERNAL SUN VISOR

ENLACE

HERO

Sizes S/56 - 2XL/64

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Sizes XS/54 - 2XL/64

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DEEP

Sizes S/56 - 2XL/64

Bllack Black Bla k& F lurro Yellow Y llow Ye Fluro

Black & Red

$595.00

$595.00

HURRICANE

MONO

Sizes XS/54 - 2XL/64

Black & Gunmetal

Sizes XS/54 - 2XL/64

Black & Red

$595.00

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RAV

MONO

White

$429.00

INTERNAL SUN VISOR

CAMODAZ Size S/56

ELEMENTS

Sizes MS/57 - XL/62

$429.00

$429.00

AX-8 EVO SPRAY ARMA ENERGY Sizes S/56 - XL/62

Black

$499.00

Size S/56

Sizes XS/54 - 2XL/64

Gloss Black

Sizes S/56 - XL/62

$595.00

$595.00

Gloss White

$379.00

AX-8 DUAL EVO NAKED GT RED Sizes M/58 - XL/62

$499.00

Get your products delivered directly to you

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Matt Black

$329.00

Sizes S/56 - XL/62

$549.00

GLOSS BLACK Sizes S/56 - L/60

$549.00

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V46 BLACK

Sizes XS/54 - XL/62

$1599.00

$1499.00

K-5

CORSA BLACK

CHECK OUT THE FULL RST & AGV RANGES AT WWW.NWA.CO.NZ

MATTE BLACK Sizes S/56 - XL/62

$549.00

LEATHER COLLECTION

$1495

1-PIECE LEATHER RACE SUIT

RST profile sports fit: designed to be comfortable c and easy to move around in when on the bike in any situation. w Full grain 1.1-1.3mm cowhide: soft and supple whilst retaining excellent abrasion s and a tear resistance properties.

Triple and double stitched seams: all seams s are stitched using super-strong bonded b nylon for maximum burst resistance. r Contour Plus CE armour to knees, shoulders s and elbows with pockets for o optional hip armour and optional back p protector.

Sports styling with mid size race hump and a sports collar and cuffs.

Full length 4-way stretch panels: for maximum mobility and enhanced ergonomics.

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

SIZES 38/XS - 50 /3XL BLACK/WHITE, BLACK, BLACK/FLURO YELLOW/WHITE.

LEATHER JACKET & PANTS

LEATHER JACKET & PANTS JACKET FROM

$449

PANTS

JACKET

$379

$469

RST Profile street fit: designed to be comfortable and easy to move around in c when on the bike in any situation. w Full grain 1.1-1.3mm cowhide: soft and s supple whilst retaining excellent abrasion a tear resistance properties. and Triple & double stitched seams: all seams are a stitched using super-strong bonded nylon for maximum burst resistance. n Contour Plus CE armour to knees, shoulders s and elbows with pockets for optional hip armour and back protector. o Full length jacket that can be worn on its it own, or matched with any pants in the R range.

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

SIZES JACKET 38/XS - 54/5XL PANTS 28/XS - 44/5XL COLOURS BLACK/WHITE, BLACK

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

LADIES TEXTILE JACKET & PANTS

LEATHER JACKET & PANTS FROM

$469

PANTS

$369

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

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

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

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

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

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

ALSO AVAILABLE IN LADIES VERSION

JACKET

$999

1-PIECE LEATHER SUIT

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

Hydration Race hump.

CP-X Carbon shoulder and knee protection.

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

Aramid Fibre stretch panels used throughout.

RST racing compound knee sliders.

Chamud comfort lining to collar and cuffs.

Triple and double stitched seams using 40’s grade bonded nylon thread for f maximum burst strength.

YKK zips throughout.

Perforated panels and Airtex lining for f hot weather comfort.

PANTS

$399

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

Aniline 1.2-1.3Mm matt finish cowhide: soft and supple whilst retaining excellent abrasion and tearr resistance properties.

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

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

All leather construction with soft leather collar and cuffs.

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

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

LADIES COLLECTION

JACKET

$449

PANTS

$389

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

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

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

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

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

Adjustable lower zips and waist band.

SIZES JACKET 08 - 20 PANTS 08 - 20 COLOUR BLACK

LEATHER JACKET

$699

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

IN PREMIUM MOTORCYCLE APPAREL!

SS CRO TO MO

DESIGNED TO GIVE THE ULTIMATE PERFORMANCE: • Lighter than the previous range for easier and quicker handling.

• More flexible casing than the previous range.

• Improved traction in a straight line.

• Better grip, at higher lean angles in corners. › AN OFFER ADAPTED TO EACH TYPE OF TERRAIN, BIKE AND USE. › LARGER SIZE RANGE for a wider scope of usage including new size designed for cross-country. › Tested and approved by pros.

New

sandy surfaces

New

New

mixed/soft ground

mixed/hard surfaces

New

SuperCross use

ROAD LEGAL

Junior

TRI

ALS

Junior

JUN

IOR

ROAD LEGAL

END URO

mixed/hard-packed ground

mixed/soft ground

Non Road legal.

For leisure/competition use on muddy and grassy ground THE muddy/grassy terrain tyre choice for Michelin’s 2014 MX1 and MX2 sponsored riders 25% extra tyre life over the MICHELIN S12 thanks to its new high-resistance compound. Superior traction and grip on greasy cross-slopes thanks to its tall 18mm tread blocks and Maximised Contact Patch casing.

Designed for adventure off-road use ROAD LEGAL

In brief

Excellent handling in tight conditions Excellent stability at high speeds

Bib Mousse Paired with a MICHELIN Bib Mousse, it’s the perfect solution for Rally Raid use. exceptional performance Chosen by KTM RALLY Factory Team, winner of the 2015 Dakar Rally, for its exceptional performance no matter what terrain, temperature, motorcycle displacement or weight of the machine.

32 victories since 1983!

DIRT SELECTION 2016

ROAD LEGAL

For leisure/competition use on mixed/hard-packed ground In brief

Lasting performance and outstanding value for money.

Homologated for road use, but is not designed for prolonged use in a single journey.

sp o

Pleasure without compromise › Grip and handling › Maximum grip on wet roads › Lasts 20% longer compared to Michelin Pilot Power 2CT∗

Hyp er

› Better handling∗ › Grip, grip, and more grip › Track performance

rt

MICHELIN Pilot Power An affordable choice For your sport bike

MICHELIN Pilot Road 4

Derived directly from Michelin’s sport touring Radial tyre ranges >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 31

Ret

Cu s t om

Grip, durability and design for classic, middleweight and neo-retro bikes › A large range of sizes for major brands like Royal Enfield, Moto Guzzi › Good tread life, handling and grip whatever the weather › A classic design that adds the final touch to your bike

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

Adv entu re

MICHELIN Anakee III

MICHELIN Anakee Wild

Rediscover the pleasure of riding your sport bike For longer 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

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

MICHELIN Pilot Activ

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

ROAD SELECTION 2016

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

ro

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

90% road 10% off-road

Except on snow and ice and other extreme conditions

MICHELIN Pilot Street Radial

MICHELIN Scorcher 11

Michelin’s solution for all types of cruisers

› All the advantages of the Michelin Pilot Road 4 tyre › Enhanced stability for GT bikes › Equips and is approved for 2014 BMW R 1200 RT

Except on snow and ice and other extreme conditions ** In-house tests carried out in 2013

The original dual compound Sport touring tyre

MICHELIN Commander II

Feel more secure, whatever the road conditions*

› Lasts up to 20% longer than the Michelin Pilot Road 3 tyre∗∗ › Outstanding grip even in difficult Conditions∗

MICHELIN Pilot Road 2 >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

MICHELIN Pilot Road 4 GT

Feel more secure whatever the road conditions*

From the moment it was launched, Michelin Pilot Power’s performance credentials and technologies derived from the world of racing, revolutionised the Sport tyre market

THE SCORCHER A Michelin tyre for Harley-Davidson®

* 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

*

S t oup ort r i ng

Sp o

Sp o

rt

Winner on the race track and on the road!

MICHELIN Pilot Power 3

rt

MICHELIN Power SuperSport Evo

Get off the beaten track!

50% road 50% off-road

Stability and comfort on the road thanks to Radial technology available for the first time on a knobbly tyre › Excellent longevity › On/off traction, handling, and precise steering thanks to an innovative tread pattern › Resistance to damage and high temperatures thanks to optimised tread depth and a specialised compound

®

DASHBOARD 12

MOTOGP

20

LOVE OF SMALL BIKES

30

KTM 690 DUKE R

36

YAMAHA XSR700

OCT 16

20

The first Brit to win a premier class race since Barry Sheene, at the Czech GP.

There’s something special about small bikes, especially riding with mates.

Wilkins and Sutherland regress to their teenage years aboard a pair of MT-03s.

A true foil for the cut and thrust of city traffic and twisty roads. McLaughlan and Sutherland parry and riposte...

Sporting styling that nods to Yamahas of the 70s, the XSR is a cool and retromodern that appeals.

30

36

48 MADAGASCAR MUDFEST

Touratech’s United People of Adventure took six riders from six continents to take on the wilds of Madagascar.

74

REDBULL ROMANIACS

84

2017 YAMAHA YZ250F

92

LONG TERM REPORT: HUSQVARNA FC250

NZ enduro legend Sean Clarke captained the NZ team at this year’s Romaniacs and gives an insight into the hard enduro.

Next years motocrossers are coming out of the woodwork and we’ve got our hands on the reverse-cylinder YZ250F. Never judge a book by its cover...

86

58 92

KR tester Liam Draper won a national title on this bike and basically just put fuel in and changed the filters. Here’s how it stood up to a full season.

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 October issue of Kiwi Rider.

Mud. It’s something anyone who’s done any adventure or off-road riding will know quite well, if not intimately.

Touratech owners Herbert and Ramona Schwartz introduced six lucky adventure riders from six continents to a lot of the stuff in Madagascar as part of their United People of Adventure initiative. Ex-editor Jon Bentman rode with them to experience one of the biggest adventures of his life. Turn to page 48.

Those of us who grew up riding small capacity bikes will know how much fun it is to thrash the living daylights out of a bike - something that’s near impossible to do on a big bike. Learning

OUR NEW DIGITAL MAGAZINE KR REPORT GIVES YOU ALL THE LATEST GRASSROOTS MOTORCYCLING EVENTS NEAR YOU. AND IT’S FREE! TAKE A LOOK HERE... http://bit.ly/2bKPybr

.....................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, Chris Birch, Michael Esdaile, Jock McLauchlan, Sam Greenslade and Racing Dave.

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

where best to keep the revs to make the most of a modest power output and maintaining momentum through bends are cornerstones of riding small machines. New riders, and those scaling down in size, have a bigger choice of smaller machines than ever. Turn to page 20 to experience the joy of small bikes and page 38 for Yamaha’s latest LAMS, the XSR700.

The latest crop of dirt machines are appearing and in this issue we have the first NZ test of the Yamaha YZ250F for 2017. While it might look the same at a cursory glance, there’s a host of modifications under the skin, which put the 250F right at the pointy end of the market. Don’t judge a book by its cover, we reckon.

Enjoy the mag. BEN WILKINS

FRONT END 9  NEWS

Sunshine Coast race canned; Anstey tears up record books; Classic Japanese motorcycle museum; Holeshot welcomes Aprilia.

ROOST ZONE 63  NEWS

Courtney Duncan wins in NL; NZ Cross Country champs; Dirt Guide series; Inside Redbull Romaniacs.

17

81

 ROAD PRODUCTS Need it, want it, must have it...



Everything you need to keep you and

your dirt bike in tip-top condition.

DIRT PRODUCTS

BACK END 98  BIKE MART

Essential services and products for you and your bike.

109

 CLASSICS

100

 EVENTS CALENDAR

112

 ROGER MORONEY

104

 RACE RESULTS

Honda’s V-four motorcycles.

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

Run a bike on salt water? What next... running a bike on a pint of cider?

MotoGP, WSBK Championships, MXGP

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

6

KIWI RIDER

NEXT ISSUE OF KIWI RIDER MAGAZINE GOES ON SALE MONDAY OCTOBER 10

With summer just around the corner, now is the time to make life a ride by trading in your old bike for a New BMW Motorcycle.

For a limited time, BMW Motorrad is offering the following trade in contributions towards selected models.

R 1200 R RRP $26,490 Trade in Contribution

$2,500

R 1200 RS RRP $28,490 Trade in Contribution

$2,500

S 1000 XR RRP $29,990 Trade in Contribution

$3,500

S 1000 R RRP $24,990 Trade in Contribution

$2,000

Trade in contribution’s are offered on the following models only, R 1200 R, R 1200 RS, S 1000XR, S1000R and is strictly while stocks last.

This promotional offer excludes models fitted with optional extras. Trade-in contributions are redeemed through authorised BMW Motorrad Dealers.

Visit your nearest dealer today.

Cyclespot Euro Takapuna Auckland 09 486 1136

Experience Motorcycles Kingsland, Auckland 09 845 5950

Boyd Motorcycles Hamilton 07 838 1209

Mount Motorcycles Mount Maunganui 07 575 4190

Motomart Wellington 04 589 5106

Avon City Motorcycles Christchurch 03 341 3490

Anstey tears up the history books with new 250 Lightweight Mountain Course lap record

T

he clock was well and truly turned back with the return of 250cc two-strokes to the TT Mountain Course for the first time since 2002. In a stunning race Bruce Anstey posted the fastest ever Lightweight Mountain Course lap on his way to winning the inaugural Sure Lightweight Classic TT Race, the second race of the day at the 2016 Classic TT presented by Bennetts. The team, and Bruce, now have the distinction of holding both two stroke records, following the success with the YZR500 two-stroke Yamaha last year.

Anstey revealed in the winner’s enclosure how much he’d enjoyed the race, “I thought I’ve just got to make sure that I get away from Ian [Lougher] so he doesn’t see me. I enjoyed that – it’s so good to be back on a 250, it’s such a pleasure. Once I got on the last lap I just cruised. They fire up pretty easy so I wasn’t too nervous in the pits. Enjoyed it all the way but I’m the one that’s seizing up now. The bike was so easy to ride I just had to keep the corner speed going from white line to white line.”

After the race, Valvoline Racing by Padgetts Motorcycles Team Manager Clive Padgett declared his admiration for the New Zealander, “What a man - he can ride a motorbike. That was phenomenal.

The lap record wasn’t something we aimed for but I’m chuffed to have it.”

Charlie Williams, who won five 250cc TT Races and achieved a further three podiums, started the race which got underway on time at 4.15pm. Anstey on the Valvoline Racing by Padgetts Motorcycles Honda 250 ridden was first

Holeshot Aprilia

B

etter late than never, we’d like to tell you that Holeshot Motorcycles, on Auckland’s Barrys Point Road, has welcomed the Aprilia brand to its stable.

Holeshot already sells Suzuki and Triumph motorcycles, so the addition of the Italian marque should align itself well with Holeshot’s current brands.

The barely 400 metre long Barry’s Point Road on Auckland now hosts over 14 different motorcycle brands.

A visit to the street is a must for any true motorcycle fan.

away and never looked back. After the first lap, Anstey had a lead of 16 seconds over Ian Lougher, extending his lead to 37 seconds at the end of the second lap - all eyes were on the clock at the Grandstand and, even though he was slowing for the pits, the Kiwi still broke John McGuinness’ outright Lightweight TT lap record of 118.29 (19:08.200) set in 1999, posting a new fastest lap of 118.774 (19:03.876).

There was to be no change at the front of the field, where Anstey extended his lead over Lougher to over a minute by

Glen Helen and his third lap of 112.207/ 20:10.511 gave him an unassailable lead of over 1 minute 10 seconds heading into the final lap.

Anstey was able to ride conservatively on the last lap and clinched the first Lightweight Classic TT Race with a lap of 116.012/ 19:30.808, which gave him an overall race time of 115.982/ 1:18.04.437.

Lougher finished runner up in 114.409/ 1:19.08.846, over two minutes ahead of Phil Harvey on the CSC Racing Honda in third.

Holeshot Motorcycles’ Steve Burkitt stands out front of the new Aprilia signage on Barrys Point Road

KIWI RIDER

9

Marquez Extends Lead

R

emember that hot-headed young Spaniard who crashed out of five races in 2015 and was run off track by Valentino Rossi in a sixth? The cocky young firebrand who edged out Jorge Lorenzo and Dani Pedrosa to take the premier class championship in his rookie MotoGP season and backed up to convincingly take the 2014 championship?

Yes, we are talking about the same young man – Marc Marquez.

This year we are seeing the third incarnation of the Repsol Honda rider, a rider who is determined to score championship points in every race, who is prepared to find the limit of the Michelin tyres and his machine in practice, then not stray over those limitations when it is time to race.

As a result of this reformation, Marquez extended his 2016 championship lead to 53 points with 11 of the 18 races run, doing so by settling for fifth and third place finishes in the latest two races.

REDEMPTION

While Marquez is a reformed character, it was redemption Italian Ducati man Andrea Iannone was looking for at the revived Oesterreighring (now named the Red Bull

12

KIWI RIDER

Words: Michael Esdaile / Photos: Honda Racing Ring) and at Brno in the Czech Republic.

Iannone had badly blotted his copybook by crashing while handily placed in the season-opener at Qatar, then crashed (wiping out team-mate Andrea Dovizioso) in Argentina, crashed out of third place early on at Le Mans, then crashed into Yamaha’s Jorge Lorenzo at Barcelona, putting them both in the gravel trap.

The earlier transgressions had seen Ducati management decide in favour of pairing team-mate Dovizioso with Lorenzo for 2017, with Iannone looking for a ride and eventually being picked up by Suzuki.

Ducati and Yamaha tested at the Red Bull Ring in Austria and the Italian V4s had a clear advantage.

In the August 14 race, Iannone took the lead from Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha) on the second of 28 laps, with Dovizioso joining him at the front five laps later.

Dovizioso then led 11 laps in the middle part of the race before Iannone upped the pace, took the lead and set the fastest lap of the race on the penultimate lap.

Iannone was the only rider to choose the new medium compound rear Michelin which had been especially developed for

the Austrian circuit following the tests.

Behind him, Dovizioso took second, Lorenzo got the better of Rossi after a lengthy battle for third then it was Marquez a distant fifth.

Five riders were judged to have jumped the start so were given ride-through penalties. All but Hector Barbera (Anintia Racing Ducati GP14.1) obeyed, so the Spaniard was black-flagged and thus disqualified. Then on the last lap, Danilo Petrucci (Pramac Ducati) made an overly aggressive move on Pull & Bear Aspar Team Ducati man Eugene Laverty, which saw the Irishman crash out of 11th place.

As a result of Barbera and Laverty’s failure to score points in Austria, the only rider to have scored in every round is the championship leader, Marc Marquez.

Iannone’s win marked the first time a Ducati had won a MotoGP race since October 17, 2010 when Casey Stoner won

the Australian GP at Phillip Island. And with Dovizioso taking the runner-up spot, it was the first Ducati 1-2 since Casey Stoner led Loris Capirossi over the line at Phillip Island on October 14, 2007.

NO REPEAT

Despite Marquez snatching pole from Lorenzo in the dying moments of qualifying for round 11 at Brno, Iannone was quietly confident he could score another podium for Ducati, if not a race win, after qualifying third fastest.

Dovizioso was also eyeing a podium, despite problems in qualifying that saw him end up on the third row of the grid.

A snapshot of the leaders just before the mid-way stage of the race would have gladdened any Ducati enthusiast’s eye: the Italian V4s were running 1-2-3-4.

Heavy rain through both the Moto3 and Moto2 races stopped an hour before the

MotoGP race was due to start but the track was still running with water when the 22 lap main event got underway. There were only really two tyre strategies: (1), fit soft compound wet weather tyres front and rear and go for it, in the expectation a dry line would emerge around mid-race; or (2), fit hard compound wets front and rear in the expectation the track would not dry enough to make a stop for slicks. The latter meant you would expect to run full race distance on wet weather tyres.

The majority of the field went with option (1), with the exception of the the Moviestar Yamaha riders Rossi and Lorenzo, who opted for to fit a hard compound rear tyre but retained the soft front.

Three riders chose option (2): Englishman Cal Crutchlow (LCR Honda), Frenchman Loris Baz (Avintia Racing Ducati GP14.1) and MotoGP Rookie Tito Rabat (Estrella Galicia 0,0 Marc VDS Racing Honda).

Marquez bolted into the lead from the start and lead for a lap before Dovizioso took over, the Ducatis definitely stronger up the hill. After four laps it was Iannone in front from Dovizioso, then Scott Redding (OCTO Pramac Yakhnich Ducato GP15) with Marquez fourth, fending off the Suzukis of Aleix Espargaro and Maverick Vinales. Behind them came Hector Barbera (Avintia Racing Ducati GP14.1), Pol Espargaro (Tech 3 Yamaha), Danilo Petrucci OCTO Pramac Yakhnich Ducato GP15), Bradley Smith (Tech 3 Yamaha), Dani Pedrosa, Rossi, Stefan Bradl (Aprilia Racing Team Gresini), and Crutchlow in fourteenth place. Behind him were Baz and Lorenzo.

Four laps later, Iannone still led but Barbera had forged his way past the Suzukis to fourth and Marquez was now fifth. The man on the move was Crutchlow, now up to ninth and very much on his way forward as patches of dry track emerged. Crutchlow’s forward progress fired up Rossi, while further back Lorenzo was beginning to get going too.

Dovizioso was first of the soft tyre users to pit, feeling vibration through the handlebars as the front tyre lost bits of tread. He returned to the fray on his spare bike, but had lost his confidence and retired.

On lap 15, Crutchlow took the lead, pulling away to leave Iannone second ahead of Barbera while Rossi had passed Marquez for fourth. Having worked up to 11th from 16th, Lorenzo also seemed destined for a good result, his lap times better than most as he gained confidence in his hard rear tyre. But he had overworked his front tyre which lost sections of its centre tread and was forced to pit, catching the Yamaha team by surprise.

KIWI RIDER

13

RACY GLOVES FOR RACING LADIES The RFX1 delivers premium racing technology, designed specifically for a woman’s hand.

Shape and proportion may be different, but otherwise you’ll find the standard race and sport features, like ventilated PU knuckle shells, and carbon-fibre forearm protection. The full-grain leather has a Kevlar lining, with stretch Kevlar, a protective barrier for the palm and top of the hand, and carbon reinforcements. The glove aims to deliver control sensitivity and good fit, without compromising safety.

Distributor: Darbi Accessories Size style: S-XL Price: RRP: $329 Info: motorcyclegearnz.com

BAG, BAGGAGE, AND COFFEE TO GO Love Givi aluminium panniers but don’t want pay for new hardware to fit them? You don’t have to with these Dolomiti panniers.

The 36-litre aluminium cases mount on your existing Givi ‘PL’ or ‘PLR’ pannier rack using the included adaptor pack. And you can decide where to drink that coffee with this Givi stainless-steel thermal flask, which keeps liquids hot or cold for up to 12 hours. BPA and dishwasher safe, it’s compatible with most bottle holders – or use the E163 holder and mount it direct to these Dolomiti cases, or the Givi Outback ones.

Distributor: Eurobike Wholesale Price: Flask, $29, Dolomiti panniers, $995 Info: eurobike.co.nz

YELLOW TERROR FOR KIWI NOGGINS This helmet will ensure you stand out during the commute, but Nitro’s entry-level N2100 also features the latest ECE 22.05 standard compliance, a MPT (Multi Poly Tech) constructed full-face shell, a washable and removable liner system, adjustable chin ventilation, a dual air-filtration system at your brow, integrated rear exhaust ventilation ports to increase airflow within the helmet, a wide aperture for safer city riding, and a micro-metric buckle for ultimate adjustability and perfect tension.

Distributor: Forbes & Davies Size style: XS to XXL, Satin Black, White and Safety Yellow Price: $159 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

GET UP, STAND UP, STAND UP WITH YOUR BIKE The DRC B2110 front lift-up stand for street bikes lifts from the bottom steering stem, so you can remove the front wheel and fork legs for maintenance. The durable steel stand’s height is adjustable, and it comes with 13mm, 15.5, 18, 20, 22 and 24mm pins to fit most steering-stem hole sizes. The DRC B2220 street-bike rear stand uses a universal rear spool for rear-wheel removal and easy chain adjustment or maintenance. The adjustable U-shape adapter catches and holds the spools, and will fit many different bikes. It’s 360mm high by 295 by 410mm, and can be used diagonally.

Distributor: Northern Accessories Price: Front, $109; rear, $79.95 Info: northern.co.nz

RACE TECH TAKES TO THE ROAD Dunlop’s R&D team developed the technology behind SportSmart² using lessons from its racing winners. Grip is enhanced via Multi-Tread technology on the rear using a shoulder compound for better cornering in wet and dry conditions, with a bespoke harder compound in the centre for increased mileage. A reverse-direction centre tyre pattern on the front enhances water drainage, a new front tyre shape improves handling, and its construction should deliver faster turn-in, accurate line holding and braking stability in corners.

Distributor: Forbes & Davies Price: From $279 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

ON-TREND FOOTWEAR FOR THE URBAN COMMUTE These TCX X-Groove waterproof ankle boots are designed to look on-trend for the all-weather urban commuter. A suede leather upper and vintage-look lining are augmented by a soft-touch waterproof membrane. Reinforcements boost safety, the lacing closure is backed by a zip fastener, and the foot bed incorporates a rubber sole designed to increase stability and grip.

Distributor: Northern Accessories Size style: EU 36-48, US 3.5-13, black only Price: $319 Info: northern.co.nz

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LUBE FOR HIGH-TORQUE BIG-CAPACITY MOTORS Ipone’s Road Twin 15W50 Synthesis semisynthetic lubricant was formulated specially for V-twin engines that deliver power and torque at low engine revs. Large-capacity engines in general do not cool down efficiently, and a suitable lubricant can assist. This product’s excellent shear stability also ensures better tolerance of increased piston pressure, the 15W50 viscosity means the same oil can be used for the engine block and primary transmission, and this grade reduces oil consumption and offers stability at high revs.

Distributor: Nationwide Accessories Price: 1 litre $28.95, 4 litres $79.95 Info: nwa.co.nz ARMED, LOCKED AND LOADED Designed specifically for the motorcycle market, these modern, stylish Ugly Fish Riderz Warhead glasses could be the perfect combination of comfort and protection. They are certified to Aus/NZ Safety Standards, so the lenses won’t shatter after contact with flying objects at speed, or during a collision or fall. Thicker side frames and shorter temples improve protection and overall fit with full-face helmets. There’s a detachable positive peal/foam and an adjustable elastic strap to replace the arms for a more secure fit.

Distributor: Forbes & Davies Price: $79 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

LOOKING GOOD FROM CAFÉ CRUISING TO RACE TRACK The new Ladies Blade range has a sports/ racing feel specifically for women who ride sports bikes or want race-based protection.

The core features trace their DNA from racing, built into a jacket and jean suitable for every type of riding, including touring and everyday use. Made of full-grain cowhide, with a back protector as standard plus armour for shoulders and knees, it includes a removable thermal fleece gilet, and better yet, you can wear the jacket on its own or pair it to any jean in the RST range.

Distributor: Nationwide Accessories Size: Jacket 10-20, trou 10-20 Price: Jacket $449, trou $399 Info: nwa.co.nz

CUTS THROUGH AIR LIKE A... UMM...

SHARK THROUGH WATER Flagship of the line, the Race-R PRO carbon Lorenzo helmet incorporates a carbon belt in its most upscale version. This is one of the first helmets developed to rely on CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) technology, which helped its designers create a helmet with great ventilation and the ability to cut through the air, without compromising its high safety standards – it earned five stars in the SHARP crash test.

Distributor: Northern Accessories Price: $1295 Info: northern.co.nz

DANCING FINGERS ON TOUR This GT2 WP Grand Touring glove by Five uses Cordura Stretch for the top, with a leather palm and built-in PU shell knuckle and finger protection. A double closure system with an elastic loop lets you position it over or under a jacket. The innovative design is light weight, waterproof, and designed to be as wearable in the city as on long rides, and something you’ll appreciate no matter what type of riding gear you wear.

Distributor: Darbi Accessories Size style: XS-3XL, new beige/black Price: $249 Info: motorcyclegearnz.com

FOUR-STAR HAND PROTECTION These SPIDI STR-4s are multi-purpose gloves made from a mix of Hi-Fit 0.7mm-thick cowhide and 0.6mm-thick goat leather, and designed to boast unparalleled ergonomics and the softness that makes them perfect for daily use. They also get carbon-fibre knuckle protection with the track in mind, along with EVA reinforcement on the sides and palm, a wrist safety strap and a Velcro-closure sleeve.

Distributed by: Eurobike Wholesale Size style: Price: $239 Info: eurobike.co.nz

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KIWI RIDER

Urban - Oxford $299.00

Urban - Norwich Low $249.00

Urban - Chester $299.00

Urban - Marshall $299.00

Summer - Stone $199.00

Cruiser - Delta $220.00

new

Women - Yuma Elegance $299.00

Touring - Denver $259.00

Women - Zeudi $299.00

Touring - Navigator $299.00

Women - Sharon $329.00

Touring - Continental $499.00

Offroad - Impact $399.00

All genuine leather • All fitted with breathable, waterproof membranes

Competition - Stealth $475.00

Adventure - Viper XR $375.00

ESAKR016

Touring - Legend R $349.00

Words: Ben Wilkins Photos: Geoff Osborne

Small bikes are often forgotten in the arms race for bigger and ‘better’ machinery but there’s little better for teaching machine control and plain outright fun.

I

t’s 6am on a weekday. I don’t need to be in the office for another three hours but I’m not in bed. I’m already on the bike and heading to meet our ad-man Todd Sutherland. We’re both riding Yamaha MT-03s, which we tested a couple of issues ago (KR July 16). But why on earth are we up so early when we’re not meeting our photographer until 9am?

We’re up at early o’clock because the roads are empty and we can have some fun before work starts. Think of it as a supercharged commute – except there’s precious little traffic to get in the way of the fun.

Maybe I should back up a bit here and explain what took us away from our cosy beds at this hour. When the MT-03 was initially kicking around the office for our ‘first ride’ test, we were surprised to notice that the key to the little twin-

cylinder naked was taken before any of the others. For some reason, the LAMS machine was getting picked in preference to a full-on litre-class sports bike as well as a trail bike and a supermoto. I put this down to Todd to start with... thinking the smaller machine would more readily fit his ‘compact’ proportions. As much as this thought amused me (and still does I must admit), it turned out not to be the case. You see, it seems Yamaha has managed to distill the essence of fun into a rather small and well formed package in the MT-03. Ok, so the 321cc naked isn’t going to set any records for power and speed but it does have a bit of pep and the chassis offers accurate and light steering. Even Jock, at 6’ 3”, couldn’t resist the little blighter and readily indulged a little bend-swinging on his way to the dairy and back to get the Tim-Tams for our morning smoko.

There are precious few bikes that everyone in the KR test team can agree on. Todd loves sports bikes, whereas Jock think’s they’re too cramped but is fascinated by their brakes. Both Sam and Jock are partial to lean and mean dirt bikes. Vege likes... well, actually, let’s not pause on what Vege likes. Me? Everything from dirt bikes to tourers and most things in between. This normally means there’s a bike for everyone’s tastes and nobody is left without the bike they want to ride. The MT-03 is the one bike that we all seem to agree on – something of a rarity.

The bike-buying public is just as

enamoured with the MT-03, it’s the best selling machine in Yamaha’s range (one of the reasons we headlined the last test ‘Hot Cakes’). So what is it that makes the little Yamaha LAMS-compliant machine so popular? While you might expect the popularity to be with learners (it is LAMS afterall), that’s not the case. The MT-03 has proved popular with experienced riders too – both young and old.

From a learner’s perspective the Yamaha is small enough that it’s easy to handle, both when moving the bike around when parking and starting and stopping in traffic. The bike’s lack of weight (168kg KIWI RIDER

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The Duke Words: Jock McLauchlan / Photos: Geoff Osborne

of Hazards KTM’s Duke 690R is just a good ‘ole boy, just a wanting some fun...

K

TM’s 690 Duke has been called the ‘world’s best street scalpel’. And there is certainly truth in that description. But the latest motorcycle to carry the Duke name just got better and the R model, tested here, raises that bar still further. The R model comes blessed with MSC (Motorcycle Stability Control) that upgrades the standard traction control and ABS to be lean-angle sensitive. This means the electronic safety envelope is a whole heap larger. On top of that there are WP adjustable forks, a weight saving of 2kg, a free breathing Akrapovic muffler – which sounds awesome by the way – and more power. There’s also a top of the range Brembo M50 front brake caliper to try and keep the all-new, more powerful engine in check. So, even the layman can see the new Duke R has taken the fight (or should that be fright?) to another level.

In the July issue of KR we tested the Husqvarna 701SM, which shares similar fundamental construction, if not looks, to this Duke 690R. Okay, so the Duke is a street fighter and not a supermotard machine, but the point I was getting to is this; the 701 is a hoon machine par excellence and, if it’s actually possible, the Duke R is even more so. While the 690R won’t jump as well – it’s a road bike after all – the motor packs a greater punch and the front brake takes stoppies to a whole new level. Yes, rest assured the Duke R is an absolute blast and

perfectly capable of being superbly antisocial. Not that I’d recommend that style of malarkey of course...

Anyway, the new motor has 7% more power, 6% more torque and is reconfigured for much less vibration.

The engine is even more over square than before with a bore of 105mm and a stroke of 80mm resulting in 693.7cc.

A 50mm throttle body feeds fuel to the cylinder helping deliver peak power of 74hp (55kW) at 7500rpm. This is 5hp up on last year’s model.

The new engine has been designed with a big focus on vibration reduction.

A secondary balance shaft in the cylinder head works in conjunction with the main, crank driven balance shaft, along with a lighter con rod; together this all quells the majority of the engine vibration. It truly is an incredibly smooth engine given it’s a thumping big single.

The SOHC four valve liquid-cooled engine has a six-speed gearbox and slipper clutch. It’s delight in use. The power delivery is surprisingly linear, very responsive and strong with an amazing top end – it almost revs out like a twin.

Like all big singles though, it is a bit snatchy (i.e. it judders) if ridden in too high a gear at low revs. But it’s not an issue if you just change down into a more appropriate gear – don’t let the engine lug in fifth or sixth around town.

Keep this baby in the mid-range grunt and it is a serious hoot, wheeling out of turns and blasting around bends with wanton abandonment – brilliant fun.

If possible the handling is even more of

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THE

O

GENERATION

nce upon a time a young farming lad from the Wairarapa learnt to ride a motorcycle on a 1972 Yamaha AG100. Whilst the AG was a handy farm machine, the young fella dreamed of a more powerful road-going steed for venturing further afield. After all, the mighty Aggy was only good for about 80km/h when adopting the most streamlined of riding positions, had the benefit of a gale force tail wind and well less if ‘cyclone Winston’ wasn’t at his disposal.

Naturally, the young lad hankered after an awesomely grunty (so he imagined) Yamaha DT250, the biggest that could be ridden on a learner licence (when he got old enough to have one). Oh how times change. Imagine the delight of such a young man (or woman) today knowing that a 700 twin was within his grasp in the form of the new Yamaha XSR700 LAMs machine.

Fast forward a respectable number of decades and said lad has indeed been riding an XSR and what a pleasure it has been too. I have to say that on a design front, the new XSR looks pretty cool.

I liked the almost-British-racing-greencoloured metallic paint on the tank and the unashamedly retro styling harking back to machines of the 70s and 80s.

Yamaha’s design for the XSR evolved from its ‘faster sons’ philosophy, which pays homage to iconic models from the past – in this case the company’s XS650. The concept brings cutting edge technology, modern build quality and blends it with just enough of a hint of yesterday’s styling to pique most tastes.

The engine is something of a gem.

Borrowed from the Yamaha MT-07, it has a lovely smooth and torquey power delivery that is user-friendly, tractable and surprisingly brisk, aided by six well-chosen gear ratios. First gear is sensibly low, making manoeuvring easy and stalling unlikely – particularly good news for LAMS riders. Thereafter the gear spread is excellent for decent acceleration, general riding and will deliver an approximate 160km/h top speed.

GAME

Yamaha’s XSR700 evokes a history of its XS models but thoroughly revamped for a modern generation of LAMS and experienced riders alike.

Words: Jock McLauchlan / Photos: Geoff Osborne

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MISSION MADAGASCAR: Touratech created a new concept for 2016, inviting fellow adventurers to join them on an all-expenses paid adventure in Madagascar on a tour to be known as the United People of Adventure. Over 200 applied for the six positions. And those six certainly got to experience what Touratech calls ‘real adventure’...

W

hether the villagers had any concept of the former Paris Dakar Rally it’s hard to say – it’s amazing just how far televisual media can reach – and whether they could associate the scenes before them with that of the mighty race... well that’s another thing. But they’d heard the rumble of the big adventure bikes drawing slowly closer for some time, so by the time they saw the first bike emerge from the forest they were lining the main track through their village, six-deep. And they could clearly sense they were going to see some kind of a spectacle.

Six-deep just about describes the depth of the sand that constituted their main track, six-inches (15cm) or six-feet (2m), it was deep sand and it grabbed at the wheels of the UPoA machines mercilessly.

The villagers whooped and hollered as, in the mid-day heat, the UPoA riders crashed onto their sides all along the trail, over and over, as the struggle to keep a near300kg adventure bike upright and moving proved near-impossible. In the villagers’ eyes this had to be comedy gold, while for the UPoA riders it was torture – behind the visors of their Aventuro helmets sweat droplets were stinging their eyes. One person’s adventure ride is clearly another’s situation comedy.

Yes, it pays to have a good sense of humour if you want to venture into the unknown on a fully-loaded adventure bike, otherwise the challenges, the mishaps, the sometimes sheer ridiculousness of the undertaking could unravel you. And seeing as how the inaugural Touratech United People of Adventure ride into Madagascar very quickly became an exercise in extreme adventuring, then good humour certainly was much needed.

Words: Jon Bentman / Photos: Herbert & Ramona Schwarz, Robert Davies

Touratech’s United People of Adventure

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2017 YAMAHA YZ250F TESTED HUSQVARNA FC25 0 LONG TERM TEST COURTNEY DUNCAN

WINS AGAIN! REDBULL ROMANIACS THE HOTTEST DIRT PRODUCTS

NZ’S LATEST DIRT NEWS

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New Off-Road Team Born

W

hat happens when you put some of the best off-road riders and products together in one team? You get the all-new Dirt Guide Yamaha Off-Road Team! The new team centres around Paul Whibley, Adrian Smith and Callan May, who’ll be spearheading an effort to take on the Enduro and Cross Country nationals. With a star-studded team like this you can expect them to be running at the front of the events they enter.

The new team is sponsored by Yamaha NZ, The Dirt Guide, Michelin, O’Neal, TCX, Oakley, Renthal, Arai, Zeta, DRC, Matrix, Twin-Air, Motorcycle Central and Kiwi Rider magazine.

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KIWI RIDER

Sean Clarke captained the NZ team to the 2016 Red Bull Romaniacs hard enduro Words: Sean Clarke Photos: Courtesy Red Bull (Mihai Stetcu, Predrag Vuckovic)

T

ime and time again I get asked the same question, “Why do you go to the Red Bull Romaniacs?”

Well, the answer is an easy one... it’s just the best race you could possibly compete in if you are into cross country-style hard enduro.

From the time you send your entry, right up until the very finish it is a very well organised event, and just a fun place to go and ride.

Chris Birch was the first Kiwi to compete in the Romaniacs and right from his first result I thought to myself “That looks like a bit of me”. Mark Delautour also competed in the event several times before I first competed back in 2011. Birchy won the event in 2010, then a string of podium places placed him up there with the great hard enduro riders of this era.

In my first Romaniacs I competed in the Pro Class, which is now called the Gold Class. I finished 9th overall, which was a pretty good result but the worst thing was... I was completely hooked and I’ve now been back six times and will probably be going back again next year. Since my first race in 2011, about 80-odd riders from New Zealand have entered, many of them multiple times.

Martin Freinademetz and his wife Zigi are the organisers of the Romaniacs and at the first riders’ briefing at each event Martin always tells the story of how he had a dream to hold the world’s best hard enduro race. Well, I can tell you he has fulfilled that dream.

The Romaniacs is based in Sibiu a city of about 170,000 people. The race headquarters is in the Ramada hotel with the prologue just down the road on a major access route into town. The prologue is the highlight of the event for the locals as it is just so accessible, they can get close to the bikes and action.

The effort the organisers put into the prologue is just unbelievable, they start building it on Sunday morning so they can have it ready for Tuesday morning and they literally work on it the whole time.

But for me it’s the worst part... it’s the

ROMANIACS

Martin always tells the story of how he had a dream to hold the world’s best hard enduro race. Well, I can tell you he has fulfilled that dream KIWI RIDER

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Mitas Tyres win 2016 KTM Hard Enduro Series Gold & Silver class outright winners

ATLAS TAKES THE WORLD OFF YOUR SHOULDERS Not all neck braces are created equal. Atlas uses a patented split flex frame technology which provides controlled flexibility to mimic natural body movements – its braces provide up to 27% more contact with your body to spread impacts over a larger area to further reduce the chance of injury. The Atlas Air was designed to fit and look better, move around less and provide unmatched comfort and mobility.

It’s unbelievably light - at 599g - with all the adjustability you need for the perfect fit.

Distributor: Darbi Accessories Size style: New Radioactive and Abstract colours for 2017 Price: $499 Info: motorcyclegearnz.com MUCK HEAP TO FACTORY FRESH IN SECONDS Muc-Off Silicon Shine is an all-in-one spray for your bike. Not only will it leave your pride and joy looking factory fresh in seconds, it is also able to reduce friction for suspension parts and cut the risk of dirt adhesion. Silicon Shine protects and leaves a sparkling shine on metal, plastic & rubber parts and cuts down on future cleaning and maintenance. Give your bike a makeover with a can of Silicon Shine.

Distributor: Forbes & Davies Price: $25 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz ALL-TERRAIN PROTECTION AND VALUE Forma’s Terrain Evo CE-certified European-made boots share many of the top-notch features found in their higher-spec Predator and Terrain TX, but at a more wallet-friendly price. There’s a lot to like here – protection, comfort and value wise. The boot upper is made up of leather and synthetic material and features plenty of injection moulded plastic protections.

There’s also a suede leather heat protector, while closure is via adjustable straps and Velcro.

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

STEALTH PROTECTION FOR YOUR LIGHTS The KTM Adventure is ideal for exploring the world both on and off-road. But gravel roads put your headlight at risk of stone damage flicked up by the vehicle in front. Touratech’s stainless-steel headlight protector keeps larger stones at bay, while the latticework creates a rugged off-road look. Made from laser-cut black stainless steel, it features a quick-release fastener that lets you easily clip on or detach this stylish headlight protector, which comes with everything you need to fit it, including black retaining elements.

From: NZ Touratech dealers Size style: Fitments: for KTM 1050 Adventure/ 1190 Adventure/ 1190 Adventure R/ 1290 Super Adventure, Part Number: 01-371-5095-0 Price: $225.60 Info: shop.touratech.co.nz WINNING ATTITUDE, FRESH LOOK New season, fresh start, winning attitude, now for the look to suit! O’Neal’s latest Element jersey gets fresh sublimated graphics for the 2017, laid atop breathable, moisture-wicking material. No matter how hard you go, it’ll all stay in place thanks to the extended-tail cut that lets you tuck it firmly into your pants, there’s sewn-in elbow padding, and of course the comfy fit of that v-neck collar.

Distributor: Northern Accessories Price: $49.95 Info: northern.co.nz AT ONE WITH THE ELEMENTS O’Neal’s 2017 off-road trou feature strong blackand-white graphics atop heavy-duty, tough-denier fabrics, including durable spandex panels in critical areas to allow stretch and ease of movement when the trail gets tough, or that tricky jump needs fluid movement from you to retain control.

An adjustable ratchet closure system and protective rubber patches complete the picture.

Distributor: Northern Accessories Price: $129 Info: northern.co.nz

RACE-READY OAKLEY O-FRAME When waiting at the gate, adrenalin pumping, you won’t be thinking about the scratch-resistant Lexan lens that gives you a wide-open view of the track, the triplelayer face foam to wick away sweat or the feature-packed competition-ready design with its non-slip silicone-treated strap and a mounting interface for Oakley laminated tearoffs, the most advanced tearoff system on the planet (sold separately). But you may recall that the winningest rider in history wore the MX O Frame in every title chase, and Ricky Carmichael didn’t earn his rep by compromising on performance.

Distributor: Northern Accessories Price: $99.95 Info: northern.co.nz

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OFF-ROAD TRACTION, ON-ROAD GRIP Designed for riders who love adventure and off-road travel, Metzeler’s dual-sport Karoo 3 tyre is designed for excellent off-road traction and on-road stability. Tread pattern and knob layout ensure a more uniform and constant footprint, which delivers increased mileage on- and off-road over its predecessor. The centre knobs are spaced farther apart to guarantee better penetration in soft terrain, while the shoulder knobs are closer together to guarantee more rubber on the road, and hence more grip when leaning into a curve on asphalt.

Distributor: Forbes & Davies Size style: Available in sizes to suit both light and heavy enduro bikes Price: New, lower pricing from $179 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

RAPID PULSE POWERS THOR’S HAMMER Forget flashy graphics, Thor’s all new MX Pulse line of riding gear delivers functional performance at incredible value. Designed as something of an all-round workhorse, Pulse is built tough with abrasion-resistant materials to withstand the test of time, and hard riding. Both the pant and jersey are designed from the ground up with a tailored chassis to minimise excess material and provide an exceptional fit.

Distributor: 454 Unlimited Price: Jerseys from $49.95 (youth: $39.95), pants $169 (youth: $149) Info: 454.co.nz, dirtbikegear.co.nz EXPLORER THAT’S BIG ON FEATURES, SMALL ON PRICE The new Explorer EX1 from FFM is aimed at those in the market for an adventure-style helmet that’s big on features, small on price. There’s a Multi Poly Tech (MPT) outer shell, with a dual-visor system (DVS) so you won’t get caught with the wrong visor for the conditions. Features include adjustable air intakes and exhaust vents for air circulation, the liner and cheekpads are removable and washable, and it’s certified to the latest ECE22.05 standard.

Distributor: Forbes & Davies Size style: S to XXL, Gunmetal, White and Matt Black Price: $229.00 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

FAB FILTERS, FABULOUS PROTECTION FAB-1 is a highly advanced synthetic-based formula for all oil-type fabric and foam air-filter elements. FAB-1 is a superior oil for stopping the passage of dirt, fine dust, water and other harmful elements. Its super-tacky polymer and co-polymer additives attract and hold onto virtually all fine dust particles, the waterproof base resists allowing moisture through the filter, prevents oil ‘wash out’ of the filter from carburettor fogging, and offers protection for your engine, spark plugs, carburettor and air filter.

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

REMUS 1812 OVERTURE FOR BIKES The Remus Okami muffler will impress you with its unique appearance, its high-quality material combination of stainless steel, carbon or titanium, and with the asymmetrical, hexagonal contour of the silencer body. Its low weight, the optimised components and a removable DB-Eater for off-road use also make the Remus Okami a technical highlight. What’s more, it’ll improve power and torque, and impart that distinctive Remus sound to the exhaust note.

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Never judge a book by it’s cover... while the 2017 YZ250F looks identical to last year, the hidden changes make a big difference and bring the Yamaha into contention.

Words: Jock McLauchlan, Ben Wilkins / Photos: Geoff Osborne

A

t a casual glance Yamaha’s 2017 YZ250F looks unchanged from the ‘16 model bar BNG (Bling New Graphics) and deeperrecessed Dzus fasteners on the airbox cover. In fact, if you’re looking at the tech specs the bike is identical apart from a 20mm front disc. But... and it’s a big but, the new model has been widely updated and the changes make for a substantially better performing machine on the track.

Firstly, it is unmistakably a Yamaha to ride. Ergonomically they’re bigger machines, feel taller and a little larger up front around the airbox area and also very loud to ride due to the induction noise because of the forward airbox placement (which came about in 2014 with the reversed cylinder thing). Happily, for me anyway, the larger ergos suit the taller rider very well and don’t compromise the shorter rider on the track. Don’t worry about the extra induction noise, it’s

something I got used to very quickly.

The two big improvements this year are the steering precision and the engine’s grunt. The frame and front portion of the swingarm have been strengthened around the foot peg area and the engine mounts are more rigid for less overall lateral movement. While the forks are more ridged too, the spring rate has been softened. These changes have given the Yamaha a new found accuracy in the steering, a considerably more planted feel and therefore the rider has more confidence to attack turns. This is a very noticeable improvement from last year.

Last year the Yamaha 250F was fast, but this ‘17 model feels to have more torque everywhere, and more top-end too. It makes strong power everywhere in the rev range, especially at high rpm, and is extremely easy to ride quickly. Also the rev limiter is very mild in effect, which means it holds the power and the bike doesn’t really slow when you hit it – it keeps going well so an up-shift is not strictly necessary on straights that are a whisker too long for

the current gear... excellent! The power gains have been achieved by many subtle changes to the intake tract, cylinder head, exhaust, crank and electronics, in effect making the engine breath better – these mods definitely work, even if there’s no change to the spec sheet.

Ergonomically the 250F feels very similar to last year, however the foot pegs are 5mm lower for more leg room and allow an easier standing position.

It is a comfortable machine with a clean cockpit where nothing catches – a great improvement.

My main gripe with the reverse cylinder

generation machines was the front brake.

It was let down by a 250mm front brake disc and I struggled to understand why Yamaha hadn’t upgraded it. Thankfully the front brake now has a 270mm disc rotor with new pad material that greatly improves braking feel and stopping power.

Overall the YZ250F is a better handling, bigger power machine for 2017. While we’ve not tested all the 2017 MX2 machines yet, my feeling is the power will be at or very near best in class levels and the handling will be much nearer the front of the pack too – it’s now a very impressive package.

KIWI RIDER

85

Words: Jock McLauchlan, Sam Greenslade, Ben Wilkins / Photos: Geoff Osborne

Liam Draper has been racing this Husky FC250 for the season and managed to scoop the Cross Country champs class title. After a full season, we take another look at how the bike has stood up over the year.

T

here can’t be many better feelings than getting a brand new dirt bike. Everything is shiny, the plastics don’t have a single mark on them and it all works precisely as it should, from the suspension action to the levers and twist-grip. We’re lucky enough to get to ride new bikes the majority of the time here at Kiwi Rider but most of us own our own machines too...

you know, for racing and stuff. So after tester Liam Draper rode a full season on his Husqvarna FC250, and taking out the NZ class title, we were all over getting another go on the machine to see just how well it stood up to a season being thrashed into the ground in all conditions and over a wide variety of terrain. One thing we knew for sure was that this bike was never ‘babied’ in Liam’s hands – although it might have received a bit of chain lube with every fresh set of tyres...

JOCK MCLAUCHLAN

Liam Draper’s NZ Cross Country Championship class-winning Husqvarna FC250 was always going to be an interesting test ride. Firstly, because the machine is a (hard) season’s racing old and secondly because I had recently tested Hamish Harwood’s MX2 championship winning CML KTM SX250F. While one is a Husky and the other a KTM, in all reality they are very similar

machines... but, one is immaculately prepared and cleverly adapted for top level MX work, the other is basically standard and just ridden – a lot.

Yes, Liam’s bike is completely stock standard bar, well, nothing. Even the 13-tooth front and 50-tooth rear sprocket gearing was left untouched for the entire season.

Riding the bike the first thing I noticed was that it doesn’t feel new anymore.

There is a little more vibration, the levers are not quite as free moving as on a new machine, the seat foam feels a little soft, worn and the odd thing is slightly bent... all of which is absolutely normal from a hard-ridden, season-old machine that is not so pampered. The contrast is stark between Liam’s used-feeling Husky and Hamish’s better-than-new feeling KTM. However, despite the used feel it still goes bloody well. The engine is fast, has a strong top end and is also quite flexible with decent torque. Yes, it is user-friendly and would not be at all difficult to ride over the mixed terrain likely to be encountered on a cross-country track.

The suspension is still decent too (the standard WP 4CS forks have been swapped for older WP Twin-Chamber items) although I’m sure a service would be beneficial because suspension fluid breaks down with use and damping control is reduced because of this. For example, old shock oil becomes aerated, allowing the shock piston to move through the stroke more quickly – control suffers.

Conversely, linkages need regular regreasing to keep them moving freely.

This is not to imply that Liam’s bike was grim by any means, but more of a way to explain that it didn’t feel like a new bike – maintenance is the key to keeping your machine feeling box fresh when it’s a season old.

Otherwise Liam’s FC250 felt just like the standard bike it is. The Husqvarna has great ergos, a fast user-friendly motor and excellent handling. The brakes and suspension are at, or near, the top of the class.

So, what we have here is a machine that won its class in the NZ Cross Country championship that still performs well after a hard season’s racing with not a lot of maintenance, which says a lot about the Husqvarna’s build quality.

KIWI RIDER

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

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EVENTS CALENDAR / OCTOBER 2016

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

- 19, Honda Hamilton Twilight Trail Ride Series, ADVENTURE RIDES MOTOCROSS at Maramarua Forest, starts 2pm, $40 SEPTEMBER OCTOBER entry fee which includes a burger and - 12/20, ALL NEW AUSTRALIAN Outback - 14, Nailing the Peat 4, at Patetonga, drink, phone Greg 0274454429 and check 516 Mangawhero Rd, with Hauraki Plains Power Adventures before attending due to Adventure Tour for 9 nights, College hosting the Secondary School cancellations due to forestry operations. with NGARNZ, heading up to Big Red on Invitation TT Series, cost $55 per rider, (Also 2 Nov) the borders of Simpson and Strzelecki entries close Wednesday 21st September, Deserts. Traversing the Birdsville, limited to 140 riders. Email amandaf@ Oodnadatta and Strzelecki tracks, passing NOVEMBER haurakiplains.school.nz or thro Cameron’s Corner and the Flinders - 2, Honda Hamilton Twilight Trail Ride Series, ring her on 07 8677029 ext 812 Ranges. Starts and ends In Melbourne. at Maramarua Forest, starts 2pm, $40 Own motorcycle required. Checkout www. entry fee which includes a burger and northerngraveladventureridersnz.com SEPTEMBER drink, phone Greg 0274454429 and check - 18/1 Oct, Adventure ride to Cuba, - 25, King of Ruapuna Round 2, Power Adventures before attending due to with Adventure Rides (Mike Britton), check scheduled at Mike Pero Motorsport Park, cancellations due to forestry operations. out www.adventurerides.co.nz or contact Wendy on 0273571117 or The Sandpit (Woodhill Forest) phone Mike on 0212849047 email her at wendy.ashmore@clear.net.nz Open 9-5 Wed to Sunday, tracks suitable or visit www.mci.net.nz. Other meetings are for all levels, family passes available, on 20 Nov, 25 March 2017 and 2 April 2017. or more Info phone 09 420 8879 or visit OCTOBER www.thesandpit.co.nz, hire bikes available - 3/31, 28 days riding your own motorcycle but bookings essential through the Andes Mountains, NOVEMBER the Atacama Desert, ride along the border - 20, King of Ruapuna Round 3, TRAINING DAYS with Bolivia, and through to the lush at Mike Pero Motorsport Park, contact wine and agricultural areas of Argentina Wendy on 0273571117 or email her at - RiderSkills Motorcycle Training and Chile. With Rosco’s Rocky Road wendy.ashmore@clear.net.nz Motorcycle training 7 days a week, for new Adventures, phone 09 4068807 or visit or visit www.mci.net.nz. Other meetings are or back to biking, and confidence building, www.roscosrockyroad.com and his blog at on 25 March 2017 and 2 April 2017. including advanced roadcraft. Phone Phil www.mytb.org/rosco-p McDaid on 0800245387 or visit - 22/24, Heartlander Tour, Bay of Plenty, www.riderskills.co.nz with NGARNZ starts and finishes in RUNS, RALLIES, RIDES, SHOWS & TOURS - Barry’s Point Road Monthly Ride Out Opotiki. Friday night 21st Oct Opotiki Monthly rides on the last Saturday of each accommodation available but additional month, from Hyosung Motorcycles at 72 to your entry fee, checkout www.

NOVEMBER Barrys Pt Road, Takapuna. Meet 9.30, northerngraveladventureridersnz.com - 18/19, Annual Auckland Vintage to depart 10.00. All abilities welcome.

Motorcycle Rally, Professionally run by Accelerated at 1147 Kaiaua Rd, Mangatangi. Friday Motorcycle training with instructors available NOVEMBER night ‘Pie and Pud’. Saturday night dinner on the ride for assistance. Safe, sociable - 5/7, Great Barrier Island Adventure Ride, and prizegiving will be at Mangatangi Hall, ride lasting 2-3 hours with a coffee stop en fully guided and catered, big bike and pillion Kaiaua Rd. Entry fee will be $15- $20. route. Call David Horner 021970648 or visit friendly, contact Britton Adventures on Contact Graeme Crawley at gandm. http://motorbiketrainingnorthshore.co.nz/ 0212849047 or mike@adventurerides.co.nz crawley@xtra.co.nz or ph: 0275249255 join-the-barrys-point-road-rideout/ or ring - 12, Gravel and Adventure Training - Attention all Aprilia Riders: 0508776643 or 0276998089 with NGARNZ, for small and large dual Wanted to form a small & relaxing club for - Auckland Motorcycle Club purpose machines, checkout www. touring, racing and club meetings every Advanced Rider Training northerngraveladventureridersnz.com week. Contact: Vincent 021 682 823 Visit AMCC website www.amcc.org. nz - 26, Yamaha Far North Adventure Ride, or aprilia_NZ@hotmail.com for entry form Enquiries: Colleen at with Britton Adventures, contact Mike at cthompson@paraserv.co.nz or 0212849047 or mike@adventurerides.co.nz amccinc@Ihug.co.nz or SUPERMOTARD ph 09 4891239 or 0274231433 (mixed dirt / tarmac races) also see www.supermotard.co.nz/events OCTOBER - 2, Dirt Guide Cross Country Round 4, TRAIL RIDES South Waikato (tba), Juniors $40, Seniors If you want your event listed here FREE, as it has always $50, phone Sean Clarke 0275996046.

“The Kawasaki Sandpit”, Woodhill Forest, been for our Events pages, please fax the details to: KR Juniors sign on between 8-9am Rimmers Rd entrance, SH16, Helensville.

- 8, GNCC Round 1 at Murray Jensens farm, The ultimate offroad motorcycle playground.

EVENTS, (09) 416-5308 or email admin@kiwirider.co.nz.

Te Puke, with Power Adventures, phone Come & ride, we are open Wednesday to Greg 0274454429(four rounds only) Sunday 9-5pm with a late night on Thursday.

-29, Acerbis 4 Hour, Crosscountry race, Ph: 09 420 8879 or for more information go Tahorakuri, Taupo, check out to www.thesandpit.co.nz www.epicevents.co.nz and 0275144419 or email directors@epicevents.co.nz OCTOBER - 5, Honda Hamilton Twilight Trail Ride Series, at Maramarua Forest, starts 2pm, $40 NOVEMBER entry fee which includes a burger and - 12, GNCC Round 2 at Burts Farm, Matata, drink, phone Greg 0274454429 and check with Power Adventures, phone Greg, Power Adventures before attending due to 955i ’02-03 Carbon muffler incl. $595 0274454429 (four rounds only) cancellations due to forestry operations. connector (Also 19 Oct and 2 Nov) 675 ’06-09 Carbon $595 - 15/16, Suzuki Desert Storm, trail ride, at Karioi, Ohakune, check out DECEMBER www.epicevents.co.nz and 0275144419 - 10, GNCC Round 3 at Maddix Farm, or email directors@epicevents.co.nz Tauranga,with Power Adventures, phone Greg 0274454429(four rounds only)

CLUB SECRETARIES

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- RACE RESULTS FIM MX GP 2016

Netherlands

Switzerland

Bel

Czech

ITA

GBR

France

Spain

Italy

Germany

Latvia

Mexico

Argentina

Name

Bike

Country

Total to date

Rd 16

Rd 15

Rd 14

Rd 13

Rd 12

Rd 11

Rd 10

Rd 9

Rd 8

Rd 7

Rd 6

Rd 5

Rd 4

1

Tim Gajser

Honda

SLO

653

9

37

31

44

50

50

47

50

36

40

43

47

45

2

Antonio Cairoli

KTM

ITA

588

43

41

37

27

35

33

34

28

47

50

42

27

44

3

Max Nagl

Husaberg

GER

542

33

19

39

50

23

36

25

44

35

35

38

40

41

4

Romain Febvre

Yamaha

FRA

522

23

35

16

40

0

0

47

30

40

31

41

47

35

5

Evgeny Bobryshev

Honda

RUS

494

22

27

26

23

29

34

38

31

32

35

27

36

27

6

Jeremy Van Horebeek

Yamaha

BEL

477

31

29

32

34

30

28

19

27

32

15

38

24

34

7

Glenn Coldenhoff

KTM

NED

347

40

30

29

18

29

17

28

10

10

15

17

22

27

8

C Desalle

Kawasaki

BEL

342

44

25

29

34

40

22

31

35

0

0

3

32

24

9

V Guillod

Yamaha

SUI

326

18

16

6

19

25

34

28

27

14

23

19

25

21

10

Shaun Simpson

KTM

GBR

307

30

21

31

13

0

2

0

21

21

25

21

17

25

Next rounds: September 3 Americas, September 11 Glen Helen, September 25 Maggiora, October 8 Germany MotoGP 2016 Championship

Country

Bike

Total to date

Rd 11 Brno

Rd 10 Austria

Rd 9 Sachsenring

Rd 8 Assen

Rd 7 Catalunya

Rd 6 Mugello

Rd 5 Le Mans

1

Marc Marquez

SPA

Honda

197

16

11

25

20

20

20

3

2

Valentino Rossi

ITA

Yamaha

144

20

13

8

0

25

0

20

3

Jorge Lorenzo

SPA

Yamaha

138

0

16

1

6

0

25

25

4

Dani Pedrosa

SPA

Honda

109

4

9

10

4

16

13

13

5

Maverick Vinales

SPA

Suzuki

100

7

10

4

7

13

10

16

6

Andrea Iannone

ITA

Ducati

96

8

25

11

11

0

16

0

7

Pol Espargaro

SPA

Yamaha

81

3

6

0

13

11

1

11

8

Andrea Dovizioso

ITA

Ducati

79

0

20

16

0

9

11

0

9

Hector Barbera

SPA

Ducati

76

11

0

7

10

5

4

8

10

Cal Crutchlow

GBR

Honda

66

25

1

20

0

10

5

0

Next Round: September 4 Silverstone, September 11 Italy, September 25 Spain WSBK 2016

Laguna Seca

Rimini

Donington

Fassi

Imola

Name

Bike

Country

Round 9

Race 2

Race 1

Round 8

Race 2

Race 1

Round 7

Race 2

Race 1

Round 6

Race 2

Race 1

Round 5

Race 2

Race 1

1

Jonathon Rea

Kawasaki

GBR

368

0

25

343

25

25

293

20

16

257

16

20

221

20

20

2

Tom Sykes

Kawasaki

GBR

322

25

20

277

20

20

237

25

25

187

8

25

154

16

16

3

Chas Davies

Ducati

GBR

260

16

0

244

0

13

231

16

0

215

13

16

186

25

25

4

Davide Giugliano

Ducati

ITA

185

20

0

165

16

2

147

9

20

118

20

10

88

13

11

5

Mark van der Mark

Honda

NED

185

9

13

163

6

16

141

8

8

125

10

9

106

7

9

6

Nicky Hayden

Honda

USA

173

11

16

146

10

0

136

10

11

115

25

8

82

8

7

7

J Torres

BMW

ESP

155

10

8

137

9

11

117

5

9

103

3

13

87

9

13

8

L Camier

MV Agusta

GBR

110

0

5

105

0

8

97

11

13

73

7

6

60

11

10

8

L Savadori

Aprilia

ITA

110

0

10

100

11

0

89

13

10

66

2

0

64

5

8

10

X Fores

Ducati

ESP

97

13

9

75

13

0

62

2

4

56

5

2

49

6

6

Next round: Germany September 17/18 104

KIWI RIDER

To advertise here call Todd on 021 709 989

Personal Identification Details Medical and Travel Information Special Messages or Phrases

For Online Sales Go To

todd@kiwirider.co.nz

KIWI RIDER

105

REVIEW Bull-It SR6 Italian Slim Fit Jeans

C

oming in all shapes and sizes, we’re all different. So telling you that I am very much enjoying the fit of my Bull-It SR Italian Slim Fit jeans is perhaps of less of interest than the fact that abrasion-resistant jeans come in all shapes and sizes too.

I’ve always been one to wear all of the gear all of the time and the same goes for riding pants. The invention of jeans featuring impact and abrasion protection has been something of a lottery win and I think they’re are a great addition to any rider’s wardrobe. Now, I know there’s a time and place for different riding gear but I much prefer being able to walk around in comfort at my destination, without looking like I’ve just got off a fishing trawler. With these Bull-It jeans I’m happy in the knowledge my riding trousers would still afford a decent level of protection should something untoward happen en-route.

The material used in these jeans is Covec rather than the more ubiquitous aramid fibre (Kevlar is one brand name used) found in many jeans and claims a number of advantages over aramid-fibre abrasion-resistant jeans, including unrivaled high-speed abrasion resistance. The other great advantage is that Covec doesn’t weaken over time when subject to moisture (such as washing) as aramid jeans are prone to do.

These Bull-It jeans have a thermal barrier and an inner mesh layer to draw sweat away from the skin. Knee and Hip armour

pockets are included for optional CE1621 approved protectors, which are available for around $30 per set. Fitting armour to jeans does reduce the comfort level slightly but broken kneecaps aren’t good according to the Ed, who broke one as a young fella riding in normal jeans.

These have become my first grab out of the wardrobe when heading out for any short trip on the bike in warmer weather.

Available from most good bike shops in styles for both men and women including a boot-cut for the ladies.

TODD SUTHERLAND

Size: Men 30in to 40in; Women 28in to 38in Distributor: Forbes and Davies Contact: www.forbesanddavies.co.nz Price: $223.38

Neo Tracker Jacket

T

he Neo tracker is priced in the middle of the ballpark amongst the huge range of jackets available.

I seldom ride on the road in inclement weather, so don’t often get to test this kind of gear at the extremes of our NZ weather. However, I found the jacket a good comfy fit and nice and warm on the cooler days we have in Auckland.

Featuring adjustable arm, waist and wrist tension, I found I could get the jacket to fit well no matter what combination of riding gear I was sporting at any one time [anybody who knows Todd will admit ANY combination can happen at ANY time – Ed].

There’s CE protection in the elbows and hips along with a high density foam back protector that sits comfortably without feeling cumbersome and I barely notice it when I’ve been riding.

The zips are ‘waterproof’ which I’m sure, along with the included Reissa power skin waterproof and breathable membrane, helped keep me dry in the brief showers I’ve encountered this winter. Though I didn’t have the matching Neo trousers, there’s a zip on the bottom of the jacket to allow you to match a choice of other Neo riding trousers. As an everyday jacket, the Tracker works well and has kept me warm and dry in the conditions I’ve ridden in – and there’s a removable thermal lining for when we get our warmer weather.

TODD SUTHERLAND

Size: XS to 3XL Distributor: Forbes and Davies Contact: www.forbesanddavies.co.nz Price: $279

KIWI RIDER

107

Classics

T

Words: Rhys Jones / Photos: Honda

The Honda Four-stroke V-fours

he V-four motor has been called an almost perfect configuration for a motorcycle engine, but there were several architectural problems to overcome before the power plant could reach its full potential. The most compelling being the heat produced by the two rear cylinders. They were shielded from the airflow by the front two cylinders in an air-cooled motor, which was the norm until 1982, and thus became unacceptably hot. Ducati overcame this on a V-twin by producing an L-twin, that is by having the front cylinder almost horizontal, and the rear upright, giving both good air-flow and cooling. But on a V-four, well, not really. Water cooling was of course part of the solution. The rear head could be reversed, solving lay-out problems. Both sets of carburettors could be placed in the V between the cylinders, and breath through one air-box. Exhaust from the rear cylinders could exit straight back from the rear cylinder heads.

The Honda V-four motor first appeared in the shape of a the NR500 GP race bike in 1979. In spite of the revolutionary oval pistons, and the motor’s magnesium main castings and carburettors, it was not competitive on the race track, and it

seemed as though the rapidly developing Superbike class was the place to go. So in 1983, with an eye on Daytona the VF750F was launched. Much of the technology from the NR500 had been carried over. There was a 16-inch wheel at the front, 18-inch at the rear, quickening the steering, an all new rectangular-section frame and Pro-link single shock rear suspension.

All seemed set for Honda to regain the ground breaking reputation earned with the CB750 in the late 1960s, followed by the CB900F in the 1970s, both air-cooled transverse fours.

It didn’t, however, quite happen. Although the 1982 VF750F had the liquid-cooled V-four motor, the machine proved to be unreliable, so Honda tried again in 1986 with the launch of the VFR750F. Expectations were high, scrutiny intense. Honda didn’t disappoint. The new engine was basically the same as the VF750F, but the valves were lighter, and instead of chains the camshafts were gear driven. Pistons and conrods were also lighter. Keihin CV carburettors were larger, and re-adjusted to give a straighter intake path. The result; power jumped by 15bhp to 105bhp at 10,500rpm. Compared with the across the frame four-cylinder machines, the V-four was much narrower. This meant a shorter, stiffer crankshaft, fewer bearings, and externally Ground breaking V-four; the VF750F

The more successful second generation 1986 VFR750F

KIWI RIDER

109

RST BLADE MEN’S & WOMEN’S LEATHER MenÕs & WomenÕs Jackets

$499.00

MenÕs & WomenÕs Pants

$399.00

Available in Black & Black/White (Womens Pants only in Black)

Click and Collect or get Home Delivery!

Shop online at www.nwa.co.nz

Get your products delivered directly to you

Collect from your favourite Motorcycle Store

CHECK OUT THE FULL RST RANGE AND FIND YOUR NEAREST RST STOCKIST AT WWW.NWA.CO.NZ

It’s all about EMOTION Night Dragon is the Pirelli tyre specifically developed for custom bikes and dedicated to riders looking for improved grip, handling and mileage

POWER IS NOTHING WITHOUT CONTROL