KIWIRIDER MARCH 2010

SEE OUR AWESOME SUBSCRIBER PROMO ON PAGE 6&7

MARCH 2010 $10 INCL GST

SINCE 1984

TESTED// YAMAHA YZF-R1 TRIUMPH DAYTONA 675 PIAGGIO MP3 YAMAHA YZ450F KTM 450EXC

RIDDEN//

APRILIA PEGASO SM

PLUS// WOODVILLE MX BIG DAVE’S VICTORY TOUR BOTTLED LIGHTNING RALLY SUPERCROSS CHAMPS DESERT STORM TRAIL RIDE

BATTLE

HARDENED

WE RACE TEST YAMAHA’S

ALL-NEW YZ450F

FIRST WORD ROSS MACKAY

BY THE PEOPLE, FOR THE PEOPLE Of late, other publications have come into the market place, each with its own ‘pitch,’ its own back-story. Yet Kiwi Rider has – fundamentally – stayed the same.

We get the odd (some, VERY!!) Letter to the Editor here at KR complaining about the content. Which prompts me to write this month about both the philosophy and direction of the mag.

For years Kiwi Rider ploughed its own unique furrow, one based as much on the fact that the proprietors were heavily involved in the local competition scene (which is where I met them all those years ago).

Like the late, great Geoff Eldridge’s Australasian Dirt Bike magazine, Kiwi Dirt Rider then its successor Kiwi Rider, reflected both the hands-on interests of the owners and those of their many racing mates scattered across the country.

Those interests, it’s important to note, were not so exclusive that they didn’t recognize and appreciate other facets of the sport. I know, I was covering road racing, both for Kiwi Rider and Australian magazine Revs in those early days, as long-time contributor Andy McGechan was motocross and supercross.

Gentle prodding by the distributors of bikes and apparel and accessories also meant that the coverage of what I suppose you could call the ‘hardware’ side of things increased over time.

What has never changed, however, is the sheer passion for the simple pleasure of riding a motorbike that everyone involved brings to the business.

PUBLISHED BY: McStannic Publishing Ltd POSTAL ADDRESS: P.O. Box 299, Kumeu, Auckland COURIER ADDRESS: 127 Moire Rd, West Harbour, Auckland PHONE: 09 416 5307 Fax: 09 416 5308 PUBLISHER: Pete McPhee Office: 09 416 5307 Email: pete@kiwirider.co.nz SALES AND MARKETING Ian Ferguson Office: 09 416 5307 Mobile 021 446 164 ian@kiwirider.co.nz ADVERTISING MATERIAL: set.up@clear. net.nz and please cc to ian@kiwirider.co.nz

6 KIWI RIDER

Why is this?

The main reason is that though we’ve looked long and hard at changes (as any responsible enterprise would when faced with competitors moving into their ‘patch’) we’ve never been able to get away from the fact that the masthead says it all.

We are Kiwi Rider, not Australian Bike Rider or British Bike Rider or any other nationality of Rider. Of course we take the other local mags seriously. In exactly the same way we do bone fide industry ‘bibles’ like Great Britain’s Bike magazine, The United States’ Cycle World and even Australia’s Australian Motorcycle News and Two Wheels.

What’s important to remember here is that each one is different – for a reason.

In Kiwi Rider’s case it is because we are very much a magazine ‘by the people, for the people,’ rather than one put together by a bunch of publishing industry professionals regaling us with tales of what ‘they’ did each month.

Sure we get to ride the same bikes and – in most cases – attend the same launches, but what tickles me most, as I pull together each issue, are the inspiring ‘I-rode-my-bikethere’ stories from our many readers.

Truly, I never tire of them, and from the positive feedback we get, nor do you. That and the local content –Andy’s MX and SX event reports and rider profiles, Mike Nash’s Rally reports, Big Dave’s ‘from-the-saddle’

‘What has never changed, however, is the sheer passion for the simple pleasure of riding a motorbike that everyone involved brings to the business’ ride stories, Racing Dave’s epic adventures – are the lifeblood of Kiwi Rider, and if you don’t mind me drawing a longish sort of bow, Kiwi motorcycling.

Speaking of which, it’s about time I wrapped this up.

I’ll be the one locking up tonight of course because – let’s see – Pete the Publisher left yesterday for Operau to help old mate Sean Clarke with his latest event, the No Way In Hell extreme enduro.

Sometime contributor Oscar’s with him taking the photos and Ollie left an hour ago to prep the YZ250 he borrowed off Rory Mead to compete in the thing.

Big Dave’ll also be there because he needed an excuse to go for a proper ride on Honda’s new Fury custom.

That just leaves Michael Esdaile and I….but Mike baled earlier this arvo reckoning he needed to get some kays on the new Hyosung GT650 (the fuel-injected one) ‘before it rains.’

Some things, obviously, never change! KR

BIKE MART ADVERTISING: Todd Sutherland: 021 709 989 or Alan Duff: 027 264 3383

PROOFREADING: Linda Glasswell

EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Ross MacKay editor@kiwirider.co.nz

DISTRIBUTION: Gordon & Gotch Ltd, McStannic Publishing Ltd.

DESIGN/LAYOUT: set.up@clear.net.nz

OPINIONS: Opinions expressed in Kiwi Rider are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the publishers accept no liability for any error or omissions contained herein.

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

PHOTOGRAPHER: Geoff Osborne Ph 415 2555 ospics1@xtra.co.nz REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS: Roger Moroney, Andy McGechan, Mike Nash, Ben Townley, Josh Coppins, Michael Esdaile, Big Dave, Racing Dave, Ollie Sharp and Andy Lyver DIRT EDITOR: Ollie Sharp ON-LINE EDITOR: David Cohen

PRINTERS: GEON GROUP, Auckland

REGULARS ROAD

TEST: YAMAHA YZF-R1 – 21 It’s won kudos – not to mention the World Superbike Championship title – on the track, but is Yamaha’s radical new cross-plane crankshaft YZF-R1 still the Production Superbike category’s great all-rounder on the road?

ROAD NEWS...................................11

TEST: TRIUMPH 675 DAYTONA – 26 Having missed out on a ride when Triumph’s 675 Daytona was first upgraded last year KR Ed Ross MacKay moved heaven and earth to get on one of the first of the ’10 examples to land here. Needless to say he wasn’t disappointed.

TEST: PIAGGIO MP3 250 – 33 Nothing grabs the attention of other road users like the Piaggio MP3. As KR tester Michael Esdaile found out when he swapped two wheels for three.

RIDDEN: APRILIA PEGASO – 37 The old adage that ‘you can’t judge a book by its cover’ is something you appreciate, more, as you get older and wiser. Tester Campbell Rousselle reckons Aprilia’s Pegaso Factory is a case in point.

FEATURE: VICTORY TOUR – 40 What started as a better way to get to and from the Burt Munro Challenge blossomed into one of the best rides Big Dave and The Co-Pilot have ever had.

FEATURE: LIGHTNING BOLT RALLY – 53 Racing Dave enjoyed the 11th Lightning Bolt Rally on the West Coast so much he returned with Racing Maree for the 12th late last year.

DIRT FEATURES RACE TEST: YAMAHA YZ450F – 102 You’ve seen the pictures and marvelled at the specs.

But is Yamaha’s radical new YZ450F really that much better than a conventional big-bore 4-stroke? KR Dirt Ed entered Yamaha Motor NZ’s test bike (he asked first!) in the BoP Club’s annual SummerX to find out.

DIRT TEST: KTM 450EXC – 109 Rather than keep it to ourselves (read Ollie! Ed) we decided to spread the love with our latest Long Termer, a road-registered KTM 450EXC. Old skooler Bill Mancer and young pup Mitchell Nield were the first two ‘friends of the magazine’ to get to ride it and give us their initial impressions.

ADVENTURE: YAMAHA SAFARI – 120 With hundreds of kilometres of fresh roads, tracks and trails, the Marlborough Sounds made this year’s Yamaha Safari one of the best. Racing Dave has the story.

TRAIL RIDING: DESERT STORM – 143 Back in the day, Osborne’s mate Gus was a handy sort of Enduro rider…or at least he was until he defected to the treadlie world. Recently though, he’s been casting sideways glances at the various dirt bikes at Kastle KR and when he heard about Nick Reader’s latest Suzuki-backed Desert Storm Trail Ride….well, you can probably guess the rest.

ROGER MORONEY....................... 59 The first fuel crisis

CONTENTS MARCH 2010

ROAD FEATURES

PAGE 21

MIKE NASH.....................................61 People are important ANDY LYVER ................................. 63 Feeling the fear BRONZ ............................................ 65 They’ll be back!

CLASSICS ...................................... 67 Matchless G80 GASTROM RIDER ..........................71 Funky Fish ROAD COMPETITION................... 73 R/R Champs, Supermoto, Nelson Street Race & Brian Wood

PAGE 26

ROAD PRODUCTS ........................ 83 See it, want it, must have it

REGULARS DIRT DIRT NEWS AND BRIEFS ............ 95 DIRT PRODUCTS .........................115 See it, want it, must have it DIRT COMP .................................. 128 Woodville and NZ SX champs

PAGE 40

HANDY ANDY.............................. 137 It’s simple, motorcycling is a buzz!

JOSH COPPINS ........................... 140 Back to work BEN TOWNLEY ........................... 140 A busy month KR KIDS ........................................ 146 Courtney Duncan & Hamish Dobbyn LOOKING BACK .......................... 148 It was five, ten and fifteen years ago today!

PAGE 102

BIKE MART .................................. 149

Contributions: Kiwi Rider welcomes editorial contributions from its readers. If you would like to write something up for KR e-mail a précis to the Editor at editor@ kiwirider.co.nz. Electronic transmission of words (Microsoft word. doc) and pictures (hi-res jpgs) preferred.

Advertising: Got a hot product or service and want some real bang for your advertising buck?

KR offers a complete in-house advertising design and production service. To find out more talk to Pete (pete@kiwirider.co.nz) or Ian (ian@kiwirider.co.nz)

PAGE 120

PAGE 143

KIWI RIDER 7

Dream rides love letters.

Dear First Love,

Dear Lonely Heart,

The ultimate mate ďŹ rst ďŹ rst bike bike o orr daily daily ride for 2010, seeks progressive, appreciative owner.

Hornie Hornet, streetwise, tuned, low slung, fuel injected, RR 4-cylinder, seeks sporty, lusty, or fussy rider.

With love, from Honda.

With love from Honda.

P.S - $3999 and $9499.

P.S - Now with adjustable suspension.

CBF125

VTR250

CB600F HORNET-X

VFR1200F

Dear

Rated Rider,

Dear Easy Rider,

Revolutionary VFR1200F seeking CBRxx owners and other sports touring riders looking for the ultimate naughty weekend.

With love from Honda.

P.S - State-of-the-art V4.

You’ll fall madly in love with my slim and sexy, ice cold body and hot attitude.

With love from Honda.

PS - The only chopper with ABS.

www.honda-motorcycles.co.nz, www.hondadeals.co.nz VT1300CX FURY

FREEPHONE 0508 466 326

See The Fury at any of the new Honda Powerhouse Superdealers Cyclespot Honda 63 Barrys Point Rd, Takapuna Ph: 09 486 1136

Ericksen Honda 15 Hill Rd, Bayview, Napier Ph: 06 836 6298

Hampton Honda 20 Carmen Rd, Hornby Ph: 03 349 8968

Botany Honda 9 Trugood Dr, East Tamaki Ph: 09 274 2727

Energy Honda 169 Gill St, New Plymouth Ph: 06 757 3612

Southland Honda 77 Clyde St, Invercargill Ph: 03 214 4254

Honda Hamilton 10-14 Willoughby St, Hamilton Ph: 07 838 9299

City Honda 487 Rangitikei St, Palmerston North Ph: 06 357 7027

For more information visit

www.honda-motorcycles.co.nz

WORDS: Staff PIC: Harley-Davidson

WESTPAC RESCUE HELICOPTER RIDE It’s that time again when the Ulysses Club rallies motorcyclists from the greater Auckland area to get together and cross Auckland’s Harbour Bridge en masse to raise money for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter service. The 15th annual Charity Motorcycle Ride will this yearr ng be held on Sunday March 14, the gathering point again the NZ Bloodstock Centre at Karaka adjacent the Papakura off-ramp on Auckland’s Southern Motorway. Ride START time 9.00am sharp so if you want to join the thousands of others expected this year get there by 8.00am. The ride takes those who sign up north up the Southern Motorway and across the Harbour Bridge to AUT’s Akoranga Drive campus on the North Shore. The ride is run wet or fine and badges and T-Shirts will be available. For more information contact Richard on 0-9-482 0478. The ride has the support of Kiwirider, motomail, bits4bikes, Radio Hauraki and John Baker Insurance.

ROAD NEWS AND BRIEFS

NOW SOME GOOD NEWS FOR HARLEYDAVIDSON

ULYSSES AUCKLAND INVITES ALL MOTORCYCLISTS TO THE 15TH ANNUAL

CHARITY MOTORCYCLE RIDE In stark contrast to their fortunes in the United States, Harley-Davidson has something to celebrate in this neck of the woods – a 4.55% increase in market share in 2009.

Broader appeal across a wider lineup of models is how Harley-Davidson has explained its impressive growth in sales here.

The company’s growth in 2009 was the highest recorded in the industry last year, something Harley-Davidson Managing Director for Australia and New Zealand, Peter Nochar attributes to the marque’s increasingly broader appeal.

which provided an appeal to riders from across the board.

“A key factor underpinning the proven market share growth is the diversity of appeal in the HarleyDavidson suite of motorcycles and our responsiveness to grass-roots innovation,” he told Kiwi Rider.

“We believe we were able to cement our market share with a strong third and fourth quarter of 2009, thanks mostly to the release of the 2010 model range in September. The new range offers a mix of nostalgia and new direction along with innovation and increased value for money”. Mr Nochar said.

A spike in sales during September has been attributed to the release of these new 2010 models. The new models, from different Harley-Davidson families include the XR1200X, Iron 883, Fat Boy Lo, Ultra Classic Electra Glide and Wide Glide

Photo: David Cohen

DATE: Sunday 14th March START: 9:00am (arrive by 8am please) LOCATION: NZ Bloodstock Centre Karaka, Papakura off ramp ROUTE: SOUTHERN MOTORWAY ¶ HARBOUR BRIDGE ¶ A.U.T. AKORANGA DRIVE

Harley-Davidson’s year-on-year growth of market share, 22.13% in 2008 to 26.68% in 2009, was contrary to its major competitors, except Triumph which also enjoyed strong growth – in its case from 14.12% in 2008 to 15.05% in 2009.

Another brand to see growth in 2009 was Yamaha, up from 3.20% in 208 to 5.23% in 2009 (figures courtesy Harley-Davidson). KR

Get friends and family to sponsor your ride by creating your very own page on www.fundraiseonline.co.nz The top two fundraisers will join the crew on board the Westpac Rescue Helicopter on a scheduled training flight!

All proceeds to the Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust.

There will be food and drinks at Akoranga Campus. Public welcome at the finish. Wet or fine, no cancellations! Event enquiries to Richard 09 482 0478. Badge $10, T-shirt $20. Buy a T-shirt or badge & be in with THREE CHANCES TO WIN vouchers from Motomail (1 x $500 and 2 x $250) PLUS spot prizes. Any donation of $10 earns you $25 discount at Bits4Bikes (conditions apply).

www.motomail.co.nz

NATIONAL DUCATI RALLY Ducatisti* are advised that New Zealand’s annual National Ducati Rally will be held in Clive in the Hawke’s Bay this year over between Friday March 5 and Sunday March 7. Proudly hosted by the Ducati Owners Club of New Zealand and supported by Ducati importer, the Sydney-based NF Importers Pty Ltd, and the New Zealand Ducati dealer network, the event will be based around the Clive Motel/River Bar complex with the concourse in the Farndon Domain on the banks of the Clive River. The concourse will feature bikes such as Andrew Forward’s 1098R Bayliss. For more info visit www.docnz. co.nz or call Nigel on (06) 878 0188 * Ducati owners and marquee aficionados.

KIWI RIDER 11

ROAD NEWS AND BRIEFS

DU DUCATI ANNOUNCES MULTISTRADA PRICING Ducati has announced recomP mended m retail pricing ahead of the anticipated May/June 2010 arrival of the new Multistrada 1200 and 1200 S. The new Multistrada will be available here in three guises, g the basic bike at $27,990, a Multistrada 1200 ABS model which adds an Antilock ra Braking Bra System to its impressive suite of electronics elec for $29,990, and the range-topping Multistrada S which will sell for $36,990. Also available to order will be two different versions of the Multistrada 1200 S which will come complete with Öhlins suspension front and rear plus Ducati’s new Ducati Electronic Suspension (DES), which provides push-button settings for four configurations of rider, pillion and luggage.

ANOTHER ODDBALL H-D RECORD Call it cabin fever. The day after Boxing Day last year Aussie Steve Butler completed what is believed to be the first successful ‘Globe of Death’ ride on a Harley-Davidson XL883 Sportster. The Globe of Death is a popular circus and carnival stunt across the Tasman where (normally) three performers ride specially prepared motorcycles inside a mesh sphere simultaneously. Generally a Harley-Davidson is the last motorcycle you’ll see in the Globe because it’s too heavy. That is until Harley-Davidson dealer, Gavin Walker, got hold of it! Walker and his crew set-up the Globe at his Harley-Davidson dealership in Mildura on Boxing Day with two riders – Phillip Jones and Steve Butler – vying to be the first to tackle the Globe the day after. Jones’s first attempt ended in a crash, but the bike was repaired and Butler pulled it off without a hitch going upside down on his third run, breaking a world record in the process.

A GLIMPSE OF THE FUTURE WORDS: Staff PICS: Yamaha Remember those amazing rocketship-like visions-of-the-future companies like Ford and General Motors used to unveil at car shows in the late 1950s and early 1960s?

Taking a lead from those heady, optimistic days, Yamaha put together a fascinating collection of largely hybrid-based two-wheelers of the future for last year’s Tokyo Show.

There were five in all, covering the gamut for power-assisted bicycle to full motorcycle. The five were created as part of Yamaha’s Smart Power working group, the idea to see how electricity and other alternative sources of power can be harnessed ‘to produce vehicles which combine environmentally-friendly performance with completely new kinds of riding pleasure.’

EC-03 One of the more conventional – if that’s the right word – models in the Smart Power lineup is the EC-03, a 100% electricallypowered commuter scooter using a small electric motor and lithium-ion batteries mounted in a lightweight aluminium frame.

EC-f/EC-fs These are definitely more ‘out there’ combining futuristic styling with ease of use, quietness and smoothness.

HV-X As a hybrid the HV-X offers environmentallyconscious performance with low emissions and outstanding fuel economy while still providing the fast-accelerating dynamics and relaxed cruising conventional scooters and cruiser-style motorcycles are famous for.

PAS Brace-L Special PAS bicycles were developed and originally marketed by Yamaha way back in 1993. The PAS Brace-L Special is an electro-hybrid incorporating Yamaha’s SPEC 8 (Shift Position Electric Control) in-hub 8-speed gear mechanism (Sturmer-Archer eat your heart out! Ed).

EARLIER DATE FOR SPEEDSHOW The Rugby World Cup has had an early impact on New Zealand’s annual Speedshow, organiser Keith Sharp moving the traditional September date forward to July in order to get a guaranteed slot in 2011 when Cup competition is based in Auckland.

This year the show will be held at Auckland’s ASB Showgrounds over the July 25-25 weekend and for next year it will be on a similar weekend in July. Since its inception the annual Speedshow has promoted itself as the home of ‘anything fast and/ or exciting on two, three or four wheels’ and for the fourth annual show organiser Keith Sharp

12 KIWI RIDER

PAS er Finally, the PAS er is a prototype model developed on the concept of more advanced hybrid relationship between the rider and the motor.

It has an electric motor in each wheel Yamaha’s Smart Power selection (from top to bottom) the almost conventional-looking PAS Brace-L Special, the aluminium-framed lithiumion battery-powered EC-03 scooter, futuristic EC-F commuter, and PAS er special exhibition vehicle.

and uses a two-wheel-drive mechanism that applies electric motor ‘assist’ to both wheels via an automatic electronic transmission, with the motor in the front wheel having a regenerative function which charges the battery during deceleration or ‘free-wheel’ downhill riding.

Readers who have recently enjoyed the movie Avatar will also, no doubt, appreciate the fact that the PAS er comes complete with a sensor which monitors the rider’s heart beat…and adjusts the assist level to suit – something which truly blurs the edges between man…. and machine! KR

WORDS & PICS: Robert Cochrane

The weekend of March 5-7 2010 sees 50 years of the Suzuki marque in this country celebrated.

‘The Wanganui Paul’s Road Music Fest’ runs for 2pm to 8pm on Sunday featuring top blues band ‘Blues Buffet’.

The celebrations link in with the Wanganui Classic Motorcycle Rally for Pre ‘86 motorcycles based at the Wanganui Top 10 Holiday Park and are a chance for the New Zealand motorcycle community to come together and mark this milestone in our motorcycle history.

Commemorative 50 Yr badges, T Shirts and polos are available along with full details and entry forms for online registration at www. legendsofdirt.co.nz or contact Robert Cochrane robertc@amcom.co.nz or 06-343-7585 with your questions. KR

This action starts with the North Island Classic, Twin Shock & Evo Trial Championship on the Saturday March 6 at Quentin Handley’s property at Westmere. The Trials event is also Rnd 2 of the British Spares Classic and Twinshock Trials Series.

A GREAT OPPORTUNITY The 50 Years Suzuki in New Zealand Dinner is an opportunity for Suzuki enthusiasts to gather together and mark their own particular milestone in New Zealand motorcycling history.

The dinner is at the Kingsgate HotelThe Avenue with pre-dinner drinks from 6.00pm and dinner at 7.00pm.

A display of approx 20 iconic Suzuki models will be in the dining area for guests to enjoy.

After dinner speakers are John Bullock who worked with Eric Cheney in the United Kingdom and built the first Cheney Suzuki motocross machine for Suzuki GB, plus Rod Coleman. Rod Coleman secured the New Zealand Suzuki franchise in late 1959 from an import/export agent in Tokyo.

THE ORIGINAL TRACK On Sunday 7th the North Island Classic & Twinshock Scramble Championship will be held at the Coleman’s Track at Kildare, the former Bob Coleman property. Special guest for the day is Peter Ploen - NZ & Australian motocross champion.

There will be a ‘Cheney Display’ featuring both Suzuki and BSA/ Triumph Cheney mounts plus a British Bike Dirt Day display of machines from the past, and many examples of Suzuki and other Japanese and European mounts in action.

Finally, for those interested in some live music to finish their weekend

Fifty years of Suzuki’s presence here in New Zealand will be celebrated in Wanganui over the fist weekend in March with bikes and riders coming from all over New Zealand, Australia and even the US for the event.

promises more of the same. The website,, www.speedshow.co.nz, has recently been n updated with photos from 2009 and all exhibitor and visitor information. Tickets will be available from Ticketek.

ROAD NEWS AND BRIEFS

SUZUKI 50 YEAR CELEBRATIONS

ST JOHN’S FUND RAISING RIDE The Canterbury Branch of the Ulysses Club will again be holding its annual ride in support of St John Ambulance on Anzac Day, Saturday 25th April 2009. All money raised, less expenses, will be donated to St John. This year the chosen St John branch is the Banks Peninsula Area Ambulance. Motorcycling individuals and clubs will assemble in Winchcombe Street, South City, Christchurch and then depart on an ordered ride to Awa-iti Domain Little River for a barbeque. Funds are raised by the selling of badges, raffles and a gold coin donation for the barbeque. The 2009 Anzac Day involved in excess of 250 motorcycles, and the local Ulysses Club anticipates large numbers again in 2010. For more information contact Chris Carey on (03) 348 4153 or (021) 497 155 or e-mail captain.carefree@gmail.com MOUNTAIN THUNDER On Easter Saturday, April 3rd, the streets of Methven, the small Canterbury town nestled under the snowy peaks of the Southern Alps, will resound to the sound of motorcycle thunder, when the next South Island festival of street racing arrives.

The Methven Lions, in conjunction with the Classic Action Motorcycle Sport Club, are working to bring more of our motorcycle racing thrills to a wider public audience. CAMS, who are a Classic and Post Classic Racing club based in Christchurch, but with members from all over the SI, will be rolling out their Pre 63, Pre 72, Pre 82 and Pre 89 machinery to rock the socks off the spectators. With the support of the Bucket Motor Racing Club (Miniature Road Racers), the Super Motards, and some of the South’s most spectacular Formula 1 riders competing in the Formula Methven class, a thrilling day of racing around a street circuit is guaranteed. For more information on this event go to our website; www. cams-racing. org.nz KR

KIWI RIDER 13

ROAD NEWS AND BRIEFS

THIS MONTH ON THE WEBSITE Webmaster Big Dave hasn’t been exactly short of bikes this summer with Harley-Davidson’s XR1200X and Honda’s new Fury factory custom two recent rides which you can read about on www.kiwirider.co.nz

We’ll leave voting open for a while yet and then produce a report on the results.

READ KR ON-LINE In other news Subscribers can now read the latest copy of the magazine online with our new Issuu.com service.

WORDS: Staff PICS: Big Dave Everything is trucking along quite nicely on www.kiwirider.co.nz and on some of the peak days last month there were nearly 500 unique visitors to the site per day.

It really has become a great way to advertise a motorcycle business or product and there are several sponsorship opportunities coming up.

Call our Ad man Ferg for the details.

Overseas models shown with optional accessories.

16 KIWI RIDER

We can design, produce and implement some very good bang for your advertising buck with our press and web packages.

BEST ROADS – YOUR PICK The polls to elect New Zealand’s best bike road now has over 200 votes counted and the West Coast Highway on the South Island, The Coromandel Peninsula and The Forgotten World Highway are looking like taking the podium.

It’s quite an effective way to read the mag on your computer screen with a variety of viewing and zooming options and many of the links in the online version are clickable through to our advertiser’s sites.

We think it will be a popular way to read the mag if you are travelling – many laptops are smaller than the magazine these days!

We’re also in the process of having an online only subscription for overseas readers too – so keep an eye on the site for news.

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ROAD TEST YAMAHA YZF-R1 PICS: Geoff Osborne WORDS: Campbell Rousselle & Geoff O

It’s won kudos – not to mention the World Superbike Championship title – on the track, but is Yamaha’s radical new cross-plane crankshaft YZF-R1 still the Production Superbike category’s great all-rounder on the road? KR tester Campbell Rousselle and photographer Geoff Osborne took time out over the Christmas/New Year break to find out.

KIWI RIDER 21

ROAD TEST YAMAHA YZF-R1

black does seems to appeal to a lot of bikers, who feel they look ‘mean.’ With that in mind, perhaps it’s appropriate that this one was painted black, because ‘mean’ could well be the new R1’s middle name.

or I probably would) with admiration.

WINNING PEDIGREE OK, so commuting isn’t its strongest point, but fair enough, that’s not what Yamaha had in mind when it conceived the latest model in its long and pretty much universally-lauded YZF-R1 range.

THE NAME’S BLACK, MATT BLACK! Dull spy plane-like matt black paint finish aside, my initial riding impressions of the Yamaha Motor NZ test bike were of its loud (aftermarket GYTR) mufflers, its uncompromising riding position, twitchy steering and stratospherically high first gear. Riding through town was an exercise in clutch slipping and throttle blipping, this latest R1’s first gear (something I remember the Ed mentioning in his track test of the ’09 bike) being higher than Everest (150km/h in first). This was complicated by the grabby clutch and weak bottom end power. I’ve got little good to say about the aftermarket mufflers either – despite obviously being road legal they were – to put it bluntly – embarrassingly loud; causing passersby to stare and I don’t mean (like you

This particular model was made to win races and it has. Ben Spies took last year’s World Superbike Championship on Yamaha’s works R1 with a total of 462 points, the reason, no doubt why the bike’s engine, chassis, ergonomics and brakes seem so totally focused on one thing and one thing only, to make the R1 the fastest bike around a racetrack.

With that in mind it’s a bike that doesn’t suffer fools. Whilst Honda’s curMatt black finish is no friend to a photographer or printer but suits hard-edge personality of Yamaha’s current cross-plane crank YZF-R1.

M

ake no mistake the latest R1 is super sharp. Sharp enough to cut you. But before I explain, let me do a little scene-setting.

The first words to come out of my mouth when I saw the test bike were; ‘It’s black!’ “You noticed,” replied Editor Rosco. “Geoff (photographer Geoff Osborne) will love that,” I responded, knowing full well that neither the Ed nor the mag’s long-serving photographer liked photographing black bikes.

Yep, he’s already made his feelings quite clear,” sighed Rosco in a long-suffering tone. Speaking personally here (and not really wanting to wade into the debate) I’m not a fan of being invisible on the road, but

EXTREME COMMUTER When I asked Kr Ed Ross MacKay for a bike to commute around the north Auckland area over the Christmas break he smiled a knowing smile and said, ‘take the R1!’

“Cool,” I replied.

I did because I’ve put a fair amount of time in on big sports bikes on the road over the years and believe they can be efficient and fun if used wisely.

I have no need to go into the R1’s pedigree or technical specs because Campbell has already done that. In short it’s an impressive bike which is nothing

22 KIWI RIDER

By Geoff Osborne

short of a guided missile on the track. The Rossi-inspired cross-plane crank engine is simply amazing and with mode selection on the handlebars you can adjust its output and response to your mood. This bike handles and stops like a thoroughbred and to discover its true potential you need a Track Day. ON THE ROAD But I wasn’t going near one so I’ll have to make do with telling you what it is like on the road.

Using the bottom end and mid range of the engine is the most rewarding and

once you get your head around the layout, you can confidently carve up the back roads.

Despite its presence and the booming GTYR pipes, it can still be an efficient bike in traffic, and as I found out going north in peak Christmas congestion, you just don’t get tangled up with a narrow and compact package like the R1, and even in B mode just a touch of throttle has you past any vehicle.

A REAL TEST A real test was when I took each of my daughters as pillions on 140 km rides

ROAD TEST YAMAHA YZF-R1

In theory (particularly with stratospherically high first gear ratio) the road is not really the best place for R1 to shine (unlike, for instance, the 2004 model year all-rounder) but testers Rousselle and Osborne learned to live with its racefocused dynamics

very tight corners (the Hayabusa I tested ested for the Feb ’10 mag was far easier to manage in tight sections).

rent CBR1000RR will make you feel like a riding legend (as does Ducati’s 1098 and 1198 models) and Suzuki’s GSX-R1000 will cruise along if you want, the new R1 will carve up a corner and then laugh at you for not being quicker.

In short, it’s one of the most demanding bikes I’ve ever ridden. It requires talent, experience and commitment from its rider.

UNCOMPROMISING NATURE Whilst the cross-plane crank gives the Yamaha character other straight fours lack; the biggest factor in its uncompromising personality is the way the power is delivered. There’s so little flywheel effect that opening the throttle is like flicking a light-switch.

erbating the problem were the GYTR pipes fitted to the test bike.

That said Yamaha has decided to fit the R1 with a switchable engine map system.

Changes in delivery in its various modes are subtle with A being the sharpest and B the softest. Fuelling is first rate in any mode, allowing confident throttle input even from a closed throttle. And all that explosive delivery is paired with a slick close ratio gearbox which (ultra high first gear ratio aside) will be a winner with many track day aficionados and racers.

THE RACER’S EDGE

Simply put, it is the fastest revving engine I’ve ever experienced.

To a racer niceties and ease of riding aren’t relevant, and the R1’s low centre of gravity is a classic racer set-up, allowing quicker changes of direction, especially through ‘S’ bends.

The problem here is that it is difficult to ride in anything less than ‘pushing-on’ mode with this type of delivery and I found it hard to find a rhythm on the road. Exac-

However, whilst it quickens steering, it also makes the bike twitchy, unstable and difficult to turn in or hold a line. Understeer on the R1 is particularly noticeable around

north. At 14 and 16 years-of-age respectively they are not big people, and despite the minimalistic-looking seat pad and high pegs they thought it was fun as long as they had me to hang on to.

km on a tank which is acceptable but with no fuel gauge, only a low fuel warning light, you need to keep an eye on the odo.

Interestingly they didn’t complain of sore rear ends at the end of the ride; only a bit of stiffness due to the high foot position.

After a few days of rural riding I had figured the R1 out and was enjoying the confident late braking and using the engine to drive out of the never ending corners that make up Northland’s roads.

Obviously you would think twice about touring the South Island two-up but short trips can be done. That said, I found it particularly difficult to fit soft luggage or saddle bags due to the mufflers and tail shape so found it easier to wear a backpack.

The fuel range is about two hundred

To really get the R1 turning well, you need to hang way off the bike, swing your weight forward and apply a lot of force through the bars. On a track you’d have the time to get comfortable with the flighty front end and learn how aggressively you could push through the bars, but on the road it required more aggression than I was willing to risk.

GOT IT FIGURED

Using the mode switch smartly can be interesting too – standard mode is useful for most open road riding but in the city or on wet roads the B mode softens the bottom end power and the power is fed in much more predictably.

A mode (A for Angry according to

my daughters) gives the engine a harder, punchier feel particularly off the bottom and would be more suitable for the track.

The bike’s potential is only hinted at as the roads open up but if you want a bit of Rossi fantasy you can soak up the unique exhaust note and hang on as the massive horsepower hurls you towards the next corner.

TO SUM UP You can live with this bike day to day and have a good time. but to really appreciate it throw on some leathers and head to the track and let it impress you without the limits you have to adhere to on public roads. It will blow your mind.

KIWI RIDER 23

GREAT SUSPENSION ROAD TEST YAMAHA YZF-R1

Whilst the chassis might not be your best friend on the road, the suspension definitely is. It isn’t a comfortable ride, but for an ultra stiff set-up the suspension is a revelation, as good as any top shelf performance suspension and superior to any other standard kit I’ve come into contact with.

The springs felt well chosen for my 90+kgs and damping rates were spot on.

Yamaha have done a stellar job of creating a set-up that would work instantly at a Track Day, yet still give a safe and controlled ride, even on the bumpiest of New Zealand roads.

SOME LIKE IT HOT Braking is also track focused, the brakes offering the most feedback and performance once they’re sizzling hot; they certainly improved during a spirited ride on windy roads. I’m sure they’d be impressive at a track, where they’d reach and maintain the required heat. On the road they’ll work effectively in most situations.

In traffic, they can be a touch dull and lack feel, but that lack of initial bite could be a bonus in a panic braking situation, giving you a moment to recover before they build enough heat to bite. Hard braking from cold was a weird mix of vague mild braking performance, followed up moments later with a wooden grabby feel.

A COMMITTED RIDE

Like the all-new YZ450F MXer also tested in this issue, Yamaha’s latest YZF-R1 represents a radical break with philosophy and accepted engineering practices on past models.

New cross-plane crank engine was created to help transverse frame four cylinder engine get off the turns as quickly and efficiently as the V-twins of arch World Superbike Championship rival Ducati, and geometry and ergos were fettled to make a better base for a race bike. Switchable ignition modes are there to take the hard edge off the motor but it remains the most single-minded of R1 models and will appeal and repel existing and new-tothe-brand buyers in equal measure.

The new R1 is a committed ride for serious pilots and there’s definitely still a market for such uncompromising bikes. If you want something that’s easy to ride straight out of the crate and that makes you feel like a hero, you should look elsewhere. But if you spend a lot of time at the track; if you like to work hard to sharpen your skills every time you ride; if you like the kudos of riding a bike that makes lesser riders quiver in their Alpinestars, then the new R1 well may be your weapon of choice. KR

SPECIFICATIONS 2010 YAMAHA YZF-R1 ENGINE Type: Liquid-cooled, fuel-injected DOHC 4-valve, forward-inclined parallel 4-cy.

4-Displacement: 998cc Compression Ratio: 12.7:1 Bore x stroke: 78.0mm x 52.2mm Peak Hp: 180bhp @ 12,500rpm approx Peak torque: 85lb/ft 10,000rpm approx Starting system: Electric Engine management system: EFI, YCC-T, YCC-I and D-Mode Fuel system: Electronic fuel injection Clutch: Hydraulic, Multi-plate with slipper Transmission: 6-speed constant mesh Final drive: O-Ring chain FRAME Type: Cast aluminium Deltabox Swingarm: Cast aluminium.

Suspension: USD-type 43mm telescopic forks fully adjustable (right fork rebound, left fork compression) front & single linkagemounted coil-over shock absorber adjustable for preload, rebound and high & low speed compression damping rear.

Brakes: 2 x 310mm rotor discs w/ 6-pot calipers front & single 220mm rotor disc w/ single pot sliding pin caliper rear.

Wheels: 5-spoke cast aluminium Tyres: 120/70 ZR17MC front & 190/55 ZR17MC (73W) DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 1415mm Rake: 24 degrees Trail: 102mm LxWxH: 2070mm x 715mm x 1130mm Seat height: 835mm Wet Weight: 206kg with full tank Fuel tank capacity: 18L RRP: $23,995 GEAR Helmet: Arai Gloves: Held

Leathers: Spidi Boots: Styl Martin

346 Church St Penrose, Auckland

Auckland’s newest Yamaha store Drop on in and check out our huge range of new Yamahas, including our 2010 R1 demonstrator and the latest revolutionary reverse cylinder YZ450F motocrosser.

24 KIWI RIDER

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BERIK KTG leather race gloves srp $270

BERIK Stealth leather gloves srp $220

BERIK Deceptor 2pc race suit srp $1500 Made from high quality cowhide leather; perforated in key areas to give a cooler ride; CE amour in knees, shoulders and elbows; stretch Kevlar for flexibility; reflective fabric for visibility; race knee sliders; tail bone padding and safety seams. Available in black/ white in sizes 48-60

BERIK Blade 1pc race suit srp $1900 d to Made from high quality cowhide leather, perforated give a cooler ride; magnesium inserts in key criticall arection eas knees, shoulders and elbows for extreme protection along with CE knee, elbow and shoulder protection;; race collars and aerodynamic hump protector; tail bone padding; race knee sliders and a removable and washable inner liner. White/Black, sizes 48-60.

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BERIK Air Flow leather jacket srp $600 Laser perforated leather offers improved ventilation and abrasion resistance. CE knee, elbow and shoulder protection; air flow fabric; mobile phone pocket; men's and ladies cuts. Black only, men 50-60, women S-XL.

26 KIWI RIDER

ROAD TEST TRIUMPH 675 DAYTONA

H

aving read rave reviews from the original ‘world’ media launch at – I think it was Sepang in Malaysia – I remember champing at the bit to ride Triumph’s first 675 Daytona.

Funny thing was, when I did, I was left underwhelmed. On the billiard table-smooth surface of the he international circuit the bike’s trackkfriendly suspension geometry and settings obviously worked well.

ROAD TEST TRIUMPH 675 DAYTONA

Having missed out on a ride when Triumph’s 675 Daytona was first upgraded last year KR Ed Ross MacKay moved heaven and earth to get on one of the first of the ’10 examples to land here.

Needless to say he wasn’t disappointed.

But on Pukekohe’s bumps, lumps and hollows it was a wild ride.

The subsequent test I wrote didn’t win me any brownie points at Triumph’s local headquarters...something to do, no doubt, with the fact that since then the Daytona has dominated the Supersport section of the annual Masterbike supertest where journos from across Europe gather at a Spanish circuit to ride every bike in each sports category and rate them under controlled circumstances...

It was with these thoughts floating around in my head that I collected importer Triumph NZ’s latest demo model, a 2010 (technically the same as the upgraded ’09 model). The bike had delivery kms on it, and was equipped with a Triumph-approved after-market muffler and a trick little electronic quick-shifter (which provided hours of harmless fun).

ENGIN-UITY Before I go any further let me just say for what it is worth that the unique 675cc in-line three cylinder engine Triumph developed for what was their – what was it? – fourth attempt at a suitably sporty Supersport category contender is one of the motorcycle world’s great engines.

I know, I wasn’t around when companies like Scott built their original two stroke twins, or when AJS built their amazing V4 or the equally incredible Porcupine flat twin etc etc but I have had the pleasure of experiencing most of the contemporary suspects like Honda’s first transverse four, Suzuki’s two-stroke triples, Suzuki and Yamaha’s GP-style four cylinder 500s and all the various two and four cylinder Superbike engines.

WORDS: Ross MacKay PICS: Geoff Osborne

KIWI RIDER 27

ROAD TEST TRIUMPH 675 DAYTONA

unleash another 2.2kW of peak power and a similar increase in torque via a number of incremental upgrades to the head and reciprocating internals.

So I’m not just opening my mouth and an flapping my lips.

There’s just something about the t distinct, off-beat combination of power and torque which makes every ride a pleasure, even a simple trip t to the shops an adventure. With Japan Inc’s high-revving, highlyJa strung four cylinders there’s a clear str distinction between ‘power’ (what you dist get when you rev the engine, particularly towards the higher end of the rev range) and torque (what you go looking for to get you there).

Shortening the intake trumpets and re-calibrating the rev limiter (giving it another 400rpms of grace) also produced an improvement in power at the top end of the rev range.

MORE POWER AND LESS WEIGHT? As well as a little extra power the development team was also able to lighten the bike by a couple of kilograms, the biggest saving coming from a new rear wheel/ sprocket assembly with other incremental reductions resulting from thinner wall exhaust tubing, the move to a magnesium cam cover etc.

There isn’t with the Triumph engine. Instead it feels like the two are bound tightly together so that you get both at the same time, rather than one, then the other.

Yes, it does ramp up and yes there is a little ‘reward’ just before the red line.

But the Daytona is a bike you can gain immense pleasure and enjoyment from without ever leaving the mid-range.

opinion, made a major change – for the better – to the bike’s basic as-delivered demeanour.

INCREDIBLE! REALLY?

The changes don’t amount to much, rake is now a slightly less radical 23.9° (it was 23.5°) and consequently, trail is now 89.1mm (was 86.8mm) with the wheelbase now 1395mm (was 1392mm)

In a word? Incredible.

But there’s always more to a bike than the engine isn’t there?

To that end Triumph took on board comments from owners, testers and its own development riders and engineers and for the 2009 model year made some subtle changes. The new model mightn’t look or feel that much different – it still has a distinct head down/bum up feel with what to me is still an extravagant amount of rake (particularly ex-factory).

But a change to rake, trail and wheelbase dimensions has, in my humble

Subtle styling and engine and chassis changes have made Triumph’s 675 Daytona lighter, quicker, more tractable and arguably better looking.

28 KIWI RIDER

Other changes are to the suspension – where a hi/lo circuit has been added to the damping adjustment arsenal up front – and to the brakes, where, up front again, Triumph has added Nissin’s stiffer, singlepiece monobloc caliper to the existing radial four-piston package.

I must say I can’t remember thinking, ‘man this thing’s quicker than the old one,’ but Triumph also took the opportunity presented by the ’09 model upgrade to

Though the factory and local importer probably doesn’t want me to dwell on it, the ’09 upgrade also included a new, larger sump for an increase in oil capacity.

You have to be fastidious with your maintenance with any late model highperformance four stroke engine (as owners of any 250 or 450cc 4-stroke MX bike will tell you) and Hinckley Triumphs are no different, meaning you have to regularly check the engine oil level and add oil as necessary.

Trawling through the new model’s spec sheet also reveals a slightly higher first gear, though again, if I hadn’t read it I wouldn’t have noticed the difference.

To look at, of course, there is a difference, but really only at the front. While the basic silhouette remains the same the fairing nose cone has had a subtle re-design,

ENGINE Type: Liquid-cooled DOHC 12-valve in-line 3 cylinder 4-stroke Displacement: 675cc Compression ratio: 12:65.1 Bore x stroke: 74 x 52.3mm Starting system: Electric Engine management system: CDI Fuel system: Fuel injection Clutch: Wet multiplate Transmission: 6-speed Final drive: Chain FRAME Type: Beam-type aluminium Swingarm: Aluminium w/ adjustable pivot Suspension: Front: Kayaba USD-type 41mm w/ adjustable preload, rebound & hi/ lo compression. Rear: Kayaba single coilover shock absorber w/ adjustable preload, rebound and hi/lo compression Brakes: Twin 308mm floating rotor discs w/ Nissin monobloc radial four-piston calipers front & single 220mm rotor disc w/ Nissin single piston caliper rear Wheels: Cast aluminium 5-spoke 17 x 3.5 in. dia front & 17 x 5.5in. dia. rear Tyres: Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP 120/70AR17 front & 180/55ZR17 rear DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 1415mm Rake: 23.9° Trail: 89.1mm LxWxH: 2020 x 710 x 1105mm Seat height: 830mm Wet weight: 185kg Fuel tank capacity: 17.4l RRP: $17,990 Test bike: Triumph NZ GEAR Helmet: Arai Jacket and gloves: Triumph Pants: Draggin Jeans Boots: Sidi Masterbike wins and top six finishes in World Supersport championship mean Triumph’s distinctive three-cylinder Daytona is now a bone-fide market competitor for Japan Inc’s four cylinders and Ducati’s similar, over capacity, V-twin (the 748). Basics remain the same but incremental engine, chassis, suspension and brake upgrades in ’09 made the 675 an even better track and road prospect. No easy task. New for 2010 is the instrument cluster – though you’d have to be a real trainspotter to tell the difference. Track-spec Pirelli Diablo tyres produce the winning combination of razor-sharp steering and confidence-inspiring stability but new model feels like it’s spending less time on the absolute edge of its performance envelope than the more highly-strung original

the result a cleaner, less fussy face to the world with a greater delineation between the twin projector –beam headlights and the centrally-placed air intake.

Oh, and though you’d have to line the two of them up together to tell the difference, the 2010 model gets a ‘new, revised’ instrument cluster; and just the two colour options, black or the test bike’s ‘classic tornado’ red.

ROAD TEST TRIUMPH 675 DAYTONA

SPECIFICATIONS TRIUMPH DAYTONA 675

So what – finally I hear you say – is the new ‘un like to ride?

Fantastic!

Though the riding position is still one that forces you, the rider, to make compromises in everyday use, you eventually get used to the tight, down and inward angle of the low-slung clip-ons and high-line seat…Or at least I did, and if you don’t there are plenty of little companies round the world (including here in NZ) making risers.

With no track or test days at Pukekohe or Taupo while we had the 675 our test this time was limited to road use and in that the test bike was everything a keen sportsbike rider could want from a middleweight.

A SUBTLY DIFFERENT ‘SELL’ In this the Triumph is a subtly different ‘sell’ to one of the four cylinders from Japan Inc because as much as it is virtually tailormade for Track Days, the light, nimble – but now not half as jiggly or flighty – feel, along with smooth, supremely tractable power delivery mean that like its more street-oriented ‘sister’ the Street Triple, the Daytona has a more (I hate to use the word but it is the right one in this case) ‘sensible’ side.

Not sensible as in ‘pipe and slippers.’

More sensible as in ‘broader, more allround’ appeal.

That said there’s no doubting the Daytona’s real intent, the lack of inertia (from a narrower engine) working with the pin-sharp steering geometry and uncompromising riding position to produce one of the lightest feeling, most incisive yet also now commendably stable handling packages.

TO CONCLUDE When I search for words to adequately convey what the Daytona feels like as you revel in a nice, undulating and flowing piece of back road, the ones I come up with are ‘rapier-like’ and ‘razor-sharp.’

The bottom line? You really notice just how light and slim the Daytona is, particularly if you’re used to a four cylinder. KR KIWI RIDER 29

F

ROAD TEST PIAGGIO MP3 250

orget fat-arsed chrome-plated cruisers, full dress tourers or rumbling sporting V-twins. They are common as dirt. If you live a narcissistic existence, you just have to have an MP3.

Cruise past bus stops and you will see heads swivel around to follow your progress. Sometimes you will see people’s mouths gaping when you snatch a glance in the mirrors. You will also encounter motorists who stop to watch the MP3 roll by. There’s no ‘I didn’t see you’ malarkey when you ride the MP3. Everyone notices this unusual device with it two close-set wheels at the front and a single rear wheel.

They may not admire its looks, but they sure as hell see it.

“That’s a strange looking scooter,” Tania observed when she spotted the MP3 in the garage. “What is it?”

Well, it’s a scooter with two front wheels. But to achieve that, the Italian engineers had to do some rather nifty design work. After all, the MP3 cranks over into corners the same as any motorcycle or scooter, but with two wheels at the front, it wasn’t simply a case of running two sets of forks to mount them.

A PARALL-A-WHAT? Hiding under the plastic bodywork at the front of the machine is a parallelogram suspension of original Piaggio design. This is anchored to the frame. The tilt mechanism is composed of four cast-aluminium control arms with four hinges fixed to the central tube. There are two guide tubes on either side of the parallelogram connected to the arms via suspension pins and ball bearings. The tubes on the right and left

WORDS: Michael Esdaile PICS: Geoff Osborne

THREE-WHEELED ATTENTION-GRABBER enclose the steering tube in a single arm set-up.

Huh? Take a look at the diagram and study it for a while.

Jumping on the MP3 after riding a number of other scooters, you immediately notice it is a little ‘heavier’ in the steering – it takes a little more muscle to crank it over into corners than a typical single track motorcycle or scooter. That said, one ride is all it takes to adjust and as the feedback from the front-end is so confidence-

inspiring, the next thing you know you are crowding the Piaggio into corners trying to find the limit.

NO LIMITS! In two weeks with the MP3, we never did find the limit of front-end traction. Even on wet roads.

Last time we had an MP3 to try was three years ago and back then the KR tester took it to a kart track to try to find the limit of front-end grip – and failed.

We have decided that if ever the Dark

Nothing grabs the attention of other road users like the Piaggio MP3. As KR tester Michael Esdaile found out when he swapped two wheels for three early in the New Year.

KIWI RIDER 33

ROAD TEST PIAGGIO MP3 250

It’s easy to see why the MP3 is an attention-grabber (top) and schematic of the unique front suspension system Piaggio has developed for the MP3

locking mechanism under the seat, which is then tilted forward – or pushing in the key and turning it to open the ‘boot’ lid at the rear. All up there’s a capacious 65 litres of under seat storage.

Once you get used to being able to carry loads of stuff inside a scooter, getting back on a motorcycle can take little getting used to…

Unlike the Vespa range (also owned by Piaggio), the MP3 uses high tensile steel tubing for its frame rather than a pressed steel monocoque shell. Our guess is that this, along with the tilting independent front suspension system, is why the MP3 weighs in at 232 kg with a full (12 litre) tank of petrol.

Lord lets us have another MP3 to terrorise the neighbourhood with, we will have to find a skid pan, wet the surface, throw caution to the wind and attack a corner on full throttle. Our guess is that the rear tyre will break traction way before we find the limits of the front, and slide out.

We once felt a slight front-end slide in a corner where the road surface was rippled, but it was of not the slightest concern.

CONFIDENCE-INSPIRING So, if you get the idea we found the twin front wheel set-up confidence-inspiring, you have definitely passed today’s comprehension test.

At the rear, suspension is by normal scooter single arm which contains the drive to the rear wheel. This arm is controlled by a pair of coil-over-damper suspension units, one each side. These offer adjustable spring pre-load.

The wheels are 12-inch front and rear with 120/70 front tyres and a 130/70 at the rear. Brakes are discs all round, with 240mm diameter stainless steel rotors and twin 30mm piston floating calipers.

Braking performance is exceptional.

Unlike most scooters, where the rear wheel does most of the braking, the MP3 gets substantial stopping force from its front brakes – not surprisingly because there is quite a bit of weight up high at the front and when you nail the front brakes, there’s plenty of weight transfer onto the front wheels.

And as there are two wheels, there’s a lot more rubber on the road at the front.

LOCK IT UP We’ve gone on a bit about the twin wheel front-end but there is one more feature of 34 KIWI RIDER

this that needs mentioning. When it comes to parking, you have the choice of rolling the MP3 on to its easily operated centre stand, or you can press a button on the right handlebar which locks the front tilting mechanism rigid. This is due to an electroactuator activating a central clamp on the tilt mechanism which generates hydraulic pressure to lock the suspension dampers.

The plus here is that you can lock the front at a variety of angles, so if you are backed into a curb on a hill, you can lock the body of the scooter upright, with the front wheels at different heights. You then pull up the parking brake and walk away.

This front-end locking mechanism can be brought into play when you are coasting to a stop. However, our advice is to wait until the MP3 is stationary before activating the locking mechanism. You can then sit at the lights with the engine idling with both feet on the running boards. Soon as the throttle is twisted to take off, the lock is automatically deactivated.

HIGHISH PERCH At 780mm, the rider’s seat is not as low as most 250cc scooters but that needn’t bother shorties overly as you can lock the front at the lights and never have to put your feet down.

The riding position is comfortable with quite a bit of leg room. However the seat is stepped slightly so taller riders may find they are sitting betwixt and between, as it were.

Apart from the twin front-end, the other really attractive feature of the MP3 is that it has oodles of under-seat storage. Piaggio offers you the choice of pressing a remote control button on the key to release the

For comparison, the Vespa GTS300 i.e. scaled in at 160 kg with a full tank of fuel – and the GTS300 uses the same engine as the MP3, but in 300cc displacement.

PERKY PERFORMER Motivating the MP3 is the Quasar 250 i.e. engine, the brilliant Piaggio four-stroke, four-valve, liquid-cooled motor that meets Euro 3 standards. The Quasar electronic system features advanced closed-loop injection with a Lambda sensor, together with a three-way catalytic converter and electronic ignition control system, reducing emissions as well as fuel consumption and providing immediate throttle response.

Despite its rather hefty weight, the Quasar engine propels the MP3 away from standstill very effectively and once rolling at 20 km/h or more, whacking the throttle wide open sees the tacho fly around the scale to 8000 rpm while the

Engine: Single cylinder liquid-cooled SOHC 4-valve 4-stroke Bore x stroke: 72mm x 60mm Displacement: 244cc Compression ratio: 10.5:1 Max claimed power: 22.5 bhp (16.5 kW) at 8250 rpm Max claimed torque: 21 Nm at 6750 rpm Fueling: Electronic fuel injection Starting: Electric only Transmission: ‘Twist and go’ automatic CVT, torque server.

Chassis: Twin cradle high tensile steel tube frame.

Suspension: Front: Parallelogram composed of four aluminium arms supporting two steering tubes, cantilevered suspension; 85mm wheel travel. Rear: Single arm with twin coil spring/hydraulic damper units with adjustable spring preload; 110 mm wheel travel.

Wheels: 2 x 12 in. dia. front & single 12 in. dia. rear Tyres: 2 x 120/70 x 12 front & 130/70 x 12 rear Front brake: Twin 240mm stainless steel rotor discs w/ two floating calipers and two 30mm pistons front & single 240mm stainless steel rotor disc and caliper with opposed 30mm pistons Seat Height: 780mm Wheelbase: 1490mm LxW: 2130 x 450mm Fuel capacity: 12 litres Fuel consumption: Best 4.2 litres/100 km, worst 5.0 litres/100km Price: $12,390 Test bike: Triumph New Zealand.

GEAR Helmet: Nolan N103, Classic N-Com Jacket: Spidi Gloves: Triumph Riding pants: Triumph Kevlar jeans Riding boots: Styl Martin Jerez

analogue speedo steadily plays catch-up.

There’s no doubt the Italians have got the engine and CVT scooter transmission dialled.

Once cruising along, the MP3 is turning 4900 rpm at 50km/h on a level road, while 60 km/h shows 5400 rpm. From there the revs rise only slightly as speed increases and at 80 km/h it was only running at a bit over 6000 rpm.

ROAD TEST PIAGGIO MP3 250

SPECIFICATIONS PIAGGIO MP3

Out on the open road, the MP3 was hustled along at a fair old clip, and at one stage it showed 120 km/h. That was on a flat road in with no wind.

Rider protection from the body work and screen is pretty good. One trip in light rain didn’t even result in wet trousers.

Even when giving the Italian threewheeler a fair working out, fuel consumption did not climb above 5 litres/100 km (20 km/litre) which gave a range of just over 200 km before the fuel warning light came on. A little less enthusiastic use saw consumption improve to 4.2 l/100 km (23.8 km/litre) and the fuel range increase to 280 km.

We cannot tell you what gentle use resulted in, fuel consumption-wise, because for some reason we found ourselves constantly riding the Piaggio in the most sporting of manners.

And we have yet to meet anyone who has ridden one who hasn’t been overcome with the same urge.

As well as the 250cc version, Piaggio is offering a 400cc model (yes!) and a 125cc four-stroke/electric-engined hybrid for those poor souls who believe that CO2 emission actually has an effect on the temperature of the earth. {So 84% of scientists are wrong are they Mike? (Pew Research Centre 2009). Ed} Our bet is that if the Dark Lord brings the hybrid in, it will sit around for a very long time before finding an owner.

Ok, so how much does all this fun, not to say usefulness, cost? Just a bit more than $12,000. Which is around the same as the Honda 250 Forza, but loads more fun. KR

The Piaggio MP3 twin wheeled frontend provides confidence-inspiring steering – even in the wet we did not find the limits. In addition to the lockable flip-up seat, there’s a boot in the tail to gain further access to the cavernous under seat storage.

Dashboard provides comprehensive, at-a-glance trip information. It includes tacho and speedo, fuel gauge, temperature indicator, clock and partial and total mileage. Other features are a fuel reserve indicator, oil pressure, turn signals, low and high beam, seat or boot lid open warning and an Immobilizer LED.

KIWI RIDER 35

36 KIWI RIDER

WORDS: Campbell Rousselle PICS: Geoff Osborne RIDDEN APRILIA PEGASO

CITY SLICKER The old adage that ‘you can’t judge a book by its cover’ is something you appreciate, more, as you get older and wiser. Tester Campbell Rousselle reckons Aprilia’s Pegaso Factory is a case in point.

T

he moment I laid eyes on Aprilia’s new Factory-spec Pegaso 650 I was impressed. The paint and decals scream quality, as do subtle touches like the high quality fasteners colour matched to the components they hold in place. Carbon fibre mud guard, exhaust shroud and frame guards, FTE radial brake caliper, under-seat exhausts, goldanodised wheels, trip computer with lap timer (controlled via a mode switch on left handlebar) all scream performance.

In fact when I arrived at KR HQ to pick it up, the ‘Ed’ and I stood and marvelled at the fit and finish and the attention to detail for a good ten minutes before his work commitments dragged him back into his office and I hit the road.

Light, nimble Supermotard-style Pegaso could have been purpose built for city riding, combining the snappy short-geared acceleration of a dirt bike with enough road bike smarts (good ergos, wide, comfortable seat) to make commuting or crossing town a pleasure rather than a pain.

INITIAL RIDE Straight out of the gate my sense was of a soft and cruisy, street friendly bike.

It’s typically light and manoeuvrable, the beauty of this style of machine. It possesses easy ergonomics, a super comfy, nicely shaped seat, and an easy reach to the ground and there’s plenty of under seat storage, all good stuff.

On the down side, the mirrors provide less view than I’d like (form over function here) and there’s less wind pro-

QUICK FLICK Bike: Aprilia Pegaso Factory Type: Supermotard Engine: Liquid-cooled SOHC 4-valve 660cc single cyl. 4-stroke Frame: Tubular steel Wheelbase: 1479mm Fuel tank capacity: 16L Seat height: 780mm Dry weight: n/a RRP: $16,490 Test bike: Triumph NZ Ltd

KIWI RIDER 37

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*IKS QV Look is as modern as today yet had the Ed and other older souls round the office fondly reminiscing about XL250 and 500 Hondas…..

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tection than appearances would suggest, but as I was riding in the worst possible conditions (windy as a day after a super-strength curry) I could be judging unfairly here. Engine power is flat-ish and won’t threaten beginners.

BRAKES

UPPING THE PACE

CITY CHARGING

Hitting the twisties the Pegaso initially felt too soft. However Motard ergonomic and a diminutive feel due to a lack of mass and sticky rubber add up to a confidence-inspiring ride.

It’s never scary due to the moderate engine performance and the excellent brakes.

Which leads me into the Pegaso’s biggest ace card, its city manners. On busy city streets its power, brakes and suspension come together to provide a fun, confidence-inspiring experience, while its short power-band makes sense in short charges up narrow streets.

ENGINE

Where on fast windy roads it feels slightly breathless, here it feels quick and easily manageable. And where the suspension felt the tiniest bit overwhelmed on fast back roads, it now feels comfortable and controlled, soaking up potholes, manhole covers and speed bumps with ease.

Aprilia makes much of the modern liquid-cooled, fuel-injected 660cc (single cylinder) Pegaso engine though to my mind 35Kw is nothing to crow about. Another humbug is that the fuel injection surges around 3000rpm at constant throttle settings.

Power-wise the engine makes it’s most useable thrust between 4000rpm – 5500rpm meaning that to hustle it along a windy road, you’ll be swapping cogs a lot. With this in mind it’s just as well the excellent 5-speed gearbox is as slick as it gets.

SUSPENSION For really hard charging in the hills I found the suspension a bit on the soft side. And the fact that it is almost completely un-adjustable seems like a budget cutting exercise, made more sinful in light of its ‘Factory’ designation.

38 KIWI RIDER

That said, the brakes are absolutely magic and a stroke of genius by Aprilia.

They quite literally bring you to a stop ‘in a heart beat!’ or ‘on a dime!’

Fantastic.

It really comes into its own in this environment, provoking antics that will look boisterous, butwill just be good, safe fun.

CONCLUSIONS If you’re looking for an edgy high performance Super Motard, that’ll keep your mates on their sports bikes honest, you should look elsewhere.

But if you’re looking for the ultimate urban assault vehicle, with comfort, safety and fun as its greatest virtues, then you’ll wonder how you ever managed without the stylish Pegaso 650 Factory. KR

AN125H

GZ250

$2,895

$5,595

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Commute in style with twist-and-go automatic transmission, a big disc brake and ample under-seat storage.

Rideaway Price includes FREE Oxford full-face Helmet, WOF and 6 months Registration.

Rideaway

The Marauder is long and low, in the classic cruiser style with a teardrop fuel tank, flared guards and sweeping chrome mu˻er. At 250cc it’s also learner approved.

Rideaway Price includes WOF and 6 months Registration.

UZ50

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$2,295

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Jump on one of these stylie scooters and you’ll never have to beg for a lift again. It’s economical so it’s easy on your pocket, and automatic so it’s easy to ride – all you need is a car licence!

This good-looking bike always flies out the door – and it’s easy to see why. With its alloy wheels, low, comfortable seat and electric start 4-stroke, it’s fantastic value and a blast to ride.

Rideaway Price includes 6 months Registration.

Rideaway Price includes FREE Oxford full-face Helmet, WOF and 6 months Registration.

Yes, you have to go back to school, but at least you can do it in style on a brand new Suzuki.

These freedom machines let you go anywhere, any time so there’ll be no more waiting for lifts or slumming it on public transport. They’re economical and reliable and right now, with our back to school specials, they’ve never been more attainable.

0800 SUZUKI | WWW.SUZUKI.CO.NZ O˷er ends 31 March 2010. Some conditions apply – see your Suzuki dealer.

KIWI RIDER 39 promotus 2166

ROAD FEATURE VICTORY TOUR

What started as a better way W to t get to and from the Burt Munro Challenge blossomed into one of the best rides Big Dave and The Co-Pilot B have ever had. ha

40 KIWI RIDER

They liked the idea as an opportunity to show a lot of people just how nice a bike the Vision is and kindly upped the ante by making the Limited Edition Arlen Ness Vision (#164 of 200) available for Kiwi Rider’s exclusive use.

‘Oh, that’s only perfect!’ I said to Victory man Garry Ridden when he called to break the news and talk about collecting the machine.

At KR we figured it would give a lot of folks an opportunity to see a unique bike and add a little something to the festival.

If there’s anything that captures the ‘ornate’ part of the spirit of the Indian Motorcycle better than the Vision – I’d like to ride it. Sweeping valances and organic curves included. It was fitted with the luxury ‘throne’ pillion seat and top box too.

NESSIE As we were off to the Scottish quarter of New Zealand, and ‘Arlen Ness Victory Vision’ is such a mouthful, we christened it ‘Nessie’ for the trip.

We picked it up in Christchurch on the Wednesday afternoon prior to the BMC and after a quick briefing from Garry we hit the road.

It was very warm in the City of Churches and we headed south via State Highway 1 in quite excellent conditions and with buoyant spirits.

We stopped at Rakaia to take a few snaps of the bike, while it was still in pristine condition and the cloudless skies

prevailed. We grabbed a bite to eat and pushed on to the South, with the steady stream of passing bikes heading for the Challenge.

By now I was loving the bike and wondering ‘how @^#$% good is this?’ out loud under my Arai.

Beyond Ashburton the wind picked up and it was still quite hot.

The Canterbury Plains might be ‘The Breadbasket of the Pacific’ because of their rich agriculture, but they are pretty boring to ride across, particularly in a building gale like the one that now began assaulting us.

THE BAROMETER DROPS By the time we got to Timaru she was really rising…the wind, that is. We then rode into a few showers and conditions cooled off considerably as we pushed on, along the coastal fringe, to a photo stop in Oamaru.

We posed the bike for a few portraits down by the old waterfront. In parts the old town is like stepping back in time, with the weathered stone facades largely unchanged since whaling was a big industry.

The ladies in the Star & Garter Tearooms were typically South Island-friendly as we grabbed a coffee and put on wet weathers in preparation for the colour of the sky in the direction we were heading.

Co-pilot is always tracking the barometer at home and was very happy that the Vision has a digital thermometer in its digital display allowing her to keep observations all trip.

‘Jeez, that got cold all of a sudden hey?’ I said, about to skite about how smart I was choosing to wear the threelayered Rev-it touring jacket that I’m still quite chuffed with.

‘It was 27°C just before Rakaia and 6°C

Big Dave & The Co-Pilot’s

coming down the hill into Dunedin,’ she knowledgeably informed me as we unpacked for our overnight stay at the Mercure in the north end of the city.

It was an easy ride down the coastal stretch and the occasional sea glimpses kept the scenery interesting, but we knew better roads were yet to come.

ROAD FEATURE VICTORY TOUR

T

he original idea we floated to the Victory Motorcycles team was that we would access their ‘Vision Tour’ demo bike and ride it ‘some part of the way’ down to the Burt Munro Challenge celebrations in Invercargill. Then we’d spend a few days touring Southland and Fiordland on a photo tour.

CARBO LOADING After we settled in, she headed for the Spa and I rode downtown with the stereo pumping.

I caught up with a few online buddies down in the city centre where we talked bikes and bull till it was too late for dinner at the hotel; fortunately the kitchens at ‘Etrusco at the Savoy’ in Moray Place (just off the Octagon) were open. It’s my favourite Italian restaurant – ever.

Pasta and touring seem to go together.

When next you are in Dunedin, make up some excuse about ‘carbo loading for the ride’ and go upstairs for a wonderful atmosphere, good folks and a Bolognaise that excuses being so common as to order Bolognaise.

The hosts even came down for a look at the bike before bidding us goodnight.

Friday and ‘Business Time.’

BLOW ME DOWN First event on the BMC programme was the Bluff Hill Climb and we had planned to get away early. Seeing both are nominated in the kiwirider.co.nz ‘Best Road’ poll, we’d take either the Pig Root or the Catlins to get to the bottom of the Island.

Walking to the bike from the front door of the hotel required leaning into the wind. Opening the top box into it took some effort. Sitting a helmet on the seat while packing was out of the ques-

WORDS: Big Dave PICS: Big Dave & The Co-pilot

VICTORY TOUR KIWI RIDER 41

ROAD FEATURE VICTORY TOUR

Left: Memo Van Halen: This must be just like livin’ in paradise. Below: Mount Cook was shrouded in mist, but the run up SH80 was well worth it.

FACING PAGE: Top: Lupins at Lake Tekapo. Bottom: Sunset at Lake Te Anau, the TV didn’t get a look in.

cage in the public car park across the road.

It’s right in the middle of town and they give you chocolates before bed!

COFFEE TIME We spent the next few days trying to avoid the worst of the cyclone that caused the cancellation of the beach races. We had the bike serviced by the friendly lads at KB Motorcycles, drank a fair bit of coffee and bought new thermal clothing in the town.

tion. It would just blow away.

By the time we got to Balclutha, and decisions about which route to take, there was only one answer.

The cross wind was easily in excess of 100km/hand it was propelling occasionally heavy showers inland. The sky along the coast was as dark and foreboding as a Peter Jackson gloomy scene and the wind gusts on the inland plains were treacherous.

‘Shortest direct route, thanks,’ we said to each other at the junction. These were the conditions for nothing else. Mordor does rainy.

So we motored along State Highway 1, dialled the speed limit into the cruise control and cruised the rolling hillsides away, all the way to the Southland plains and on to Bluff.

We were remarkably comfortable doing it. The bike dealt with very difficult conditions admirably.

A BIT TENSE At one stage we encountered a traffic incident and were diverted on to a seven km detour of single lane, gravel, farm service

42 KIWI RIDER

track, in 100km/h cross winds, with heavy rain and passing 18-wheelers.

I was a bit tense by the time we got back on to the tarmac, but ‘Nessie’ really coped most tidily – all trip.

Going over the Bluff causeway it was blowing. Man, was it blowing. But the Hill Climb was sheltered from the elements by the hill itself, and so was the famous signpost we parked the bike under at the end of the road. It’s like a badge of honour for touring bikers, being photographed under that sign.

After a wander around the Hill Climb we headed north for the first time on tour to our lodgings for the next three nights.

The Kelvin Hotel appears to be Invercargill’s tallest building. It’s an older style establishment that gets three stars in the Qualmark guide. What it lacks in marble bathrooms and gold fittings, it makes up for with happy, helpful staff and the way they make you feel welcome.

I wanted to give the bike a bath before taking it to one of the events – bucket, hose by the service entrance and a smile were immediately forthcoming. Secure parking for bikes is available via a lockable

By the time the Burt Munro Challenge events had run their course, the winds had moderated somewhat and conditions generally improved enough that we set out on the second part of the journey with enthusiasm.

After the Sunday Street Races at Wyndham, and the conclusion of the official events, we headed west and to our first real opportunity to punt Nessie up some beautiful backcountry roads.

FIORDLAND BECKONS We took Route 96 as we headed for Fiordland and our overnight stop at Manapouri. Once again we were impressed by the comfort and capability of the bike as it rolled away the beautiful, lush foothill country delightfully, until we stopped in the shadow of the Southern Alps.

If you are looking for a touring-biker friendly place to hang your helmet for the night, check out the Manapouri Lakeview Motor Inn. Host Dave rides a TDM and attended the BMC. He offers good food, a nice bar and clean and tidy rooms at a reasonable tariff – plus one of the nicest outlooks from the restaurant anywhere – watching the sun set over the Cathedral Peaks (1590m) being a highlight. See

We met some great characters along the way. Like Darren and his mate the ‘The Albatross.’

ROAD FEATURE VICTORY TOUR

back to Te Anau base, chatting with a number of bikers on the way. Our theme for the ride by now was ‘you’re never alone with a Nessie’ as we were swamped with questions and admirers every time we parked.

“If I get a Kea to take a sandwich out of my mouth will you put me in the mag bro?’

Now I know you’re not supposed to feed them, but what could I say? The bird didn’t take it anyway.

www.manapouri.com for the skinny.

Monday morning dawned and we had no trouble getting motivated for the day ahead. In these esteemed pages eight years ago, I rated State Highway 94 ‘NZ’s Best Bike Road.’ I’ve since found a few I like better, but not many.

We had allocated a full day to make the 300 km journey to Milford Sound and back to our next night’s accommodation at Te Anau.

At first the road follows the Lake Te Anau shoreline with tree-clad escarpments looming beyond the crystal clear waters.

AWE-INSPIRING

Through the 1.25 kilometres of rough-hewn tunnel, and on via a descent of switchbacks to the valley floor on the Milford side, the road really is a motorcycle ride of the utmost quality.

Conditions were overcast for most of the day. The temperature climbed to 17°C in the valley and dropped to 5°C in the high country. The road is in fair condition and carries quite a lot of tourist traffic, so button off and drink it all in.

The bike continued to draw a crowd and was a big hit with the tourists everywhere we stopped. We took dozens of photos for the Japanese tourists wanting to be seen with Nessie.

Beyond Te Anau Downs the road snakes through beautiful tunnels of native forests that line the fringes of the escarpments.

Occasionally they open out to a narrow plain on the Eglington Valley floor, nestled between the Earl and Livingstone Mountains. The scene is quite awe-inspiring and it’s only a teaser of what is to come.

We had a quick look around and snapped a few pics out at Milford Sound, but with the grey skies (and a stunning motorcycle waiting) we decided against the boat cruise as we’d done it before in better conditions. It costs around $NZ75pp for a two-hour cruise (Gilligaaannn!) and if you haven’t done it – ride down and do so.

It’s a wonder of the natural world.

Past Lake Gunn the road climbs toward the Homer tunnel with Mt Christina (2502m) looming on the right.

DARREN AND HIS MATE We had a few relaxing stops travelling

When last we saw them, their bikes were parked beside the road and they were headed for a beautiful babbling stream – fishing poles in hand.

What a wonderful place to travel.

We got back to Te Anau mid afternoon and settled in to very amenable accommodation at the Lakeside Motel and had a wander around the pleasant township.

It’s another good one for motorcyclists.

The Lakeside Motel, Te Anau, has separate living spaces, kitchen and amenities, but the highlight is watching the sun set over the Lake with Flat Mountain away in the distance. Magnificent. Co-pilot says ‘ Definitely recommended – thumbs up’.

MORNING INDECISION We left Te Anau reasonably early with the day’s destination ‘undecided.’

After the terrible weather that had prevailed for most of the first few days on tour, the sunshine and 20°C temperatures were most welcome.

The roads from Te Anau heading north are a blend of open highway touring and lovely lakeside twisties.

By the time we were skirting Lake Wakatipu, south of Queenstown, conditions were close to ideal. Sunny breaks and virtually no wind prevailed.

KIWI RIDER 43

ROAD FEATURE VICTORY TOUR The ride along the stunningly beautiful lake, in the shadows of The Remarkables provided one of the great sights of the tour.

We decided to by-pass Queenstown and push on to the middle of the Island, stopping at Cromwell for lunch instead.

More fabulous sights, gorges, mountains, glistening lakes and snow-capped peaks lined the way.

OVER THE LINDIS From Cromwell we made excellent time through Lindis Pass and on to Central Otago and the Mackenzie District.

Lindis is probably the gentlest pass on the Mainland, but it is a great ride nonetheless, and its long sweepers ideally suited the big Nessie.

Beyond Lindis the landscape in Central Otago is completely different to anything we had encountered on the trip so far.

Brown and relatively dry, the plains are ringed on all sides by towering peaks. The snow capped Southern Alps lie to the west, the Hawkdun Range and Benmore Peak (1863m) to the east.

The road hugs the valley floor and is quite straight and the countryside open

44 KIWI KIWI RIDER RIDER

and empty. Punctuated by wide streams flanked by fields of outrageously coloured lupins, with flowers that were almost the same shades as the artwork on the bike.

We arrived at our tentative destination of Twizel at around four pm and stopped to take pics by the incredibly blue lakes. With conditions still ideal we decided to push on to Mt Cook.

Unfortunately at 3,754m the mountain makes its own weather and it wasn’t playing ball. Shrouded in mist and light rain, only the bottom half was visible. The ride in, along Route 80, was worth the effort however.

EPIC PROPORTIONS The flowing road crosses countryside of epic proportions. Vast slopes rise away from the Lake Pukaki basin and the Ben Ohau Range lies to the west, with Dun Flunary rising 2,499m and the Gammack and Burnett Ranges, off to the east, funnel the view to distant Mt Cook.

On arrival at the village we considered checking in to a hotel at the foot of the mountain, but with the cloud that encased the upper half of the slopes unlikely to clear for days, we headed back towards Twizel.

Above left: Another stunning lake Te Anau sunset. Right: If I...will you put me in the mag Bro? Below: Beech forests on SH94.

The riding was so nice and conditions so pleasant that when we got to the Route 8 junction we decided to push on to Lake Tekapo instead – and that’s where we hunkered down in the Pepper’s Resort after a lovely Thai meal in the sleepy town.

The lakes in the district are an amazing azure blue and Lake Tekapo is no exception. It is simply a stunning place of great natural beauty.

The sunset provided another spectacular end to another incredible day’s motorcycle riding. Central Otago is really an amazing place. The roads are generally wide and open and were very well suited to our lounge chair on wheels.

THE HOMEWARD LEG Grey, overcast, back to being a bit windy and the Co-pilot reckoned ‘the type of rain my mother would describe as teaming’ greeted our final day on tour.

Conditions dictated that we just headed back to Christchurch via the shortest

KIWI RIDER 45

ROAD FEATURE VICTORY TOUR “Nessie” set in the back blocks of Omaru. You get the feeling that not much has changed since whaling was a big industry. Below: Along the shores of Lake Wakatipu near Queenstown.

direct route, with the intention of making it out to Akaroa on the Banks Peninsula for the first time.

Easy, straight running out to the east coast above Timaru, trying to skirt the worst of the weather, with a stop for lunch at Pleasant Point.

Worth stopping for the name alone and the food at the Railway Café is good and it’s owned by a motorcyclist.

Also worth noting were the numerous highway patrol cars on a donut break near Fairlie. Several marked – one mufti.

So it was time to hunker down again, turn up the stereo, hit the cruise control (where suitable – there were some long straight stretches heading north along the coast) and we made it to the Akaora turnoff in good time.

MAYBE NEXT TIME Twice before on our tours of the Mainland we have ventured that way, and twice before we were beaten back by the sheer filth of the weather, and for the third time in as many attempts we said ‘stuff this’ and headed back to the city.

The Peninsula was shrouded in thick fog and persistent rain, so we had a stop at the pub at Little River and made our way back to town to return the bike.

We gave it a quick wash and from there it was by taxi to the Airport and home to wade through gigabytes of pics.

What places the Southern Alps and Southland are!

It’s no wonder that vast tracts of the Alps are World Heritage listed. It’s hum-

bling, it’s epic, it’s an amazing experience to sit outside on a motorcycle and watch it all roll by.

It’s full of great folks, is extremely tourist friendly, and is jaw drop-ing-ly beautiful.

If you haven’t been down there for a ride around, start planning now.

Log on to www.venturesouthland.co.nz and check out some of the attractions of the Mighty South, and if you are looking for a real good excuse to head down for a look around, next year’s Burt Munro Challenge will be a ripper.

Hope to see you down there. Nessie might be a hard act to top though!

Thanks to Victory Motorcycles NZ and Kerryn from Venture Southland for making it all possible.

KIWI RIDER 47

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WORDS & PICS: Big Dave We featured a Vision on the cover on the November 2008 edition of KR and the capability of the bike impressed us then.

So when Victory gave us an opportunity to use their Arlen Ness Custom Vision, #164 of 200, for a serious tour test around Southland, we jumped at the chance.

Arlen Ness is regarded as a pioneer of custom bike building. His works are famous amongst the chopper fraternity and some of his bikes are legendary.

Victory proudly announces that he personally customised the Limited Edition ‘Arlen Ness Vision’ in the accompanying blurb.

“In styling the bike, Arlen Ness either blacked-out components or chromed them.

Chrome features include the: handlebars, floorboards, brake and shift levers, handlebar tips and side stand. Ness custom treatment is found everywhere on the bike, even on the hand and foot controls. The black and chrome styling features blackedout items such as the body and accent panels, forks, tip over protection, passenger handles, instrument panel, anodized belt guard and license plate mount.”

The machine he created is one that certainly polarises opinions.

VERY ACCOMPLISHED Whatever you think of the styling, after a very thorough test, in occasionally difficult and trying conditions, we can attest to its capability as a very accomplished Grand Tourer – that it also works as a very cool cruiser.

This is a wonderful motorcycle to spend an extended tour on.

It starts with room to move. It’s large.

(Another blindingly brilliant BD insight!)

It weighs in excess of 365kg and has a wheelbase of 1670mm. It’s also a contender for the ‘most bodywork on a motorcycle ever’ award, even allowing for the fact the engine is intentionally left uncovered.

It’s comfortable.

The seat is low, cruiser low, 673mm, but it is very plush and the foot accommodation is probably the best on any bike for comfort. The long footboards, combined with the tip-over protection outriggers, offer a variety of leg positions that make it very much like sitting in a favourite lounge chair – even for a BD size unit.

PILLION FRIENDLY The passenger is also brilliantly catered for, although the Top Box is an additional extra

ROAD FEATURE VICTORY TOUR

YOU’RE NEVER ALONE WITH NESSIE on the Ness Model. Also missing from the Touring model are the heated grips (replaced with bling) and the heated seat (replaced with hand stitched leather bling).

As it turned out they weren’t really missed on this trip either. The bodywork and electric screen did such a good job of insulating us from the elements.

We copped some extreme conditions on the run down to Invercargill. 140km/h cross winds, detours on to dirt roads in heavy rain and plummeting temperatures.

Most of which we were quite nicely protected from, inside the bubble the whole setup creates.

The stability of the machine in the conditions actually surprised me.

‘You might have to tack a bit’ Gary said when we were discussing the trip into the forecast gales. It was a pretty fair description of the ensuing action.

The guys on the lighter, naked bikes were having a much rougher time of it.

The only time I’ve noticed any irregularity in the Vision aerodynamics is on the freeway following a large vehicle – it transmits some buffeting, but in extreme touring conditions I’d have to give it an A+.

It is quite effective at keeping the lower half dry in moderate rain too.

KIWI RIDER 49

ROAD FEATURE VICTORY TOUR

SPECIFICATIONS VICTORY ARLEN NESS CUSTOM VISION

FUN TO RIDE TOO For all its size it’s still fun to ride.

We logged just on 2,000km for the tour and I didn’t scrape anything or touch down anywhere all trip. It has good enough ground clearance to comfortably deal with the (corners sign-posted as) 75s at 100km/h.

The 1731cc (badged 106 cubic inch), SOHC 4-valve V-twin engine has self adjusting valves and hydraulic lifters and purrs along nicely. It’s fed by a closed loop EFI system and develops 109ftlbs of torque at and 68kWs (92 horsepower) close to its 5,500rpm redline. It has good overtaking pull and is remarkably smooth in cruise mode.

The range on a tank full varied with how sportily I pushed the bike along, but a return of 16.9km/l was most consistently displayed on the digital trip computer nestled between the analogue dials. The LCD has a variety of trip computer functions.

Stopping is taken care of by a set of 300mm brakes. Twin floating discs with three-piston calipers up front and one two-piston unit aft. They are linked, provide good feel with a light touch and are confidence inspiring, even when doing low speed manoeuvres on the gravel.

They sit in the middle of some beautiful custom billet wheels that sport a 130 front and 180 section rear tyre.

The clutch is equally light and when I looked at all the riding pics co-pilot took, I only have two fingers on the levers in any of them.

A PLEASURE TO LIVE WITH The ease of control (for a bike so large) and 50 KIWI RIDER

road manners of the bike were a pleasure to live with.

Two people getting on and off the bike, past the large top box, in touring gear, was the only inconvenience, but that’s normal for full dressers.

When conditions improved I wound the screen down, folded in the side deflectors and sat back and watched it all roll past in wonderful comfort.

The luggage is often maligned because it looks like it should hold more than it does, but we fitted all our gear, cameras, chargers, two dozen KR hats, bike brochures, stickers and co-pilot’s shoes on board.

The top box easily accommodates two full-face helmets. Which is handy, because you’re never alone with this bike.

Engine: Air-oil-cooled 50° SOHC 8-valve V-twin Compression ratio: 9.4:1 Fuel system: Electronic fuel injection Starter: Electric Transmission: 6-speed constant mesh Primary drive: Belt Frame: Tubular steel Suspension front: Conventional 43mm dia. telescopic forks Suspension rear: Linkage-type w/ single gas-charged shock absorber Tyres: 130/70 R18 Dunlop Elite 3 front & 180/60 R16 Dunlop Elite 3 rear Brakes: Twin disc front & single disc rear Wheelbase: 1670mm Seat height: 673mm Dry weight: 365kg Fuel capacity: 22.7l RRP: $42,500

were queuing up to have their picture taken with the bike. Everyone had an opinion.

We tagged the tour ‘You’re never alone with Nessie.’ It’s quite a celebrity machine, from its diamond-cut cylinders to the four speaker stereo system and effective cruise control. It sure draws a crowd.

Don’t let the custom looks and deportment fool you, because it’s also a competent Grand Tourer; it dealt with some miserable conditions admirably, and it doubles as a very classy cruiser.

Long may it roam. KR

SURE DRAWS A CROWD The stream of people who stop and ask about it is constant. Japanese tourists

Top: Mt Cook. Below: Admirers at Teretonga.

WORDS & PICS: Racing Dave e ROAD FEATURE BOTTLED LIGHTNING

GREASED LIGHTNING

KIWI RIDER 53

54 KIWI RIDER

ROAD FEATURE BOTTLED LIGHTNING

Racing Dave enjoyed the 11th Lightning Bolt Rally on the West Coast so much he returned with Racing Maree for the 12th late last year.

D

arkie Terrace Road. Really, that’s its actual name. Rumour on the street has it that Paul Holmes owns land there...

So, where is this inappropriately, and rather cheekily, named road? It could only be on the West Coast, of course, and the good people of Charleston don’t seem to mind. However, I’m getting ahead of myself.

Faithful Kiwirider readers will remember that a year ago I attended the 11th annual Bottled Lightning Rally, a 500km mystery ride out of Reefton, organised by Andrew Lineham.

The rally is so named to celebrate that this gold and coal mining town was the first in New Zealand to have electric street lighting, way back in 1888.

BACK FOR MORE I so enjoyed the ride that for the 12th event I returned, this time with Racing Maree as pillion on my BMW R1200GS Adventure. The route is a secret until the Saturday morning, and after a fundraising al fresco breakfast in the main street, we were issued our instructions, and the locations of the six checkpoints

FACING PAGE: Rallies like the Bottled Lightning attract all sorts of riders and bikes…. THIS PAGE: Above we have riders crossing the Rappahannock River and an eclectic mix at the Cape Foulwind checkpoint (below).

that must be found to show that the ride had been completed.

After just two minutes, we reached our first stop – a visit to the museum at Blacks Point, and a chance to see a working stamping battery extracting gold by shattering quartz with hammers.

Cool, and on a damp surface over the Rahu Saddle to Springs Junction, the sun soon appeared before the first gravel road was reached, which was northbound on the tight, blind, narrow, and highly cambered Blackadder Road, up the west bank of the Maruia River.

Now, Andrew makes it clear that some shingle roads are included in each ride, so I wondered how the severely unsuitable pure road machines might get on. Neither sports bikes, like the

GSX-Rs, Aprilia RSVs, or MV Agusta F4s, nor massive tourers, like the Honda 1800 Gold Wing, are particularly nimble on such a slippery surface, but all their riders were game for the challenge.

A NEW TERM IS COINED… Isn’t the word ‘scartched’ a beauty?

It may not appear in a dictionary, but eloquently describes both the sight and the sound of a full-fairinged bike failing to cope with the dicey conditions.

Three road bikes were scartched on Blackadder Road, but happily at low speed, when their riders underestimated the floating effect of broad smooth tyres on the loose shingle road.

No such drama for Maree and me, as my Beemer has a knobbie on the

KIWI RIDER 55

ROAD FEATURE BOTTLED LIGHTNING

enthusiasm. Controversy did strike when one of our riders encountered the wrath of the law, and when I passed them there were lots of arm waving and an obviously heated discussion taking place.

The fourth checkpoint was near Cape Foulwind, and although the instructions were relatively clear, it was possible to mistake the correct T-intersection and restaurant for the incorrect ones (I know – I did!), and riders who followed other lost riders added to the confusion.

No harm done, and soon we were heading back to State Highway 6, and the brilliant sweeping bends of the coast road as it winds its way south to Greymouth. This 100km mix of open and fast, tight and sinuous curves must be

Top shot: Racing Maree crossing the Inangahua River, then one of the many two-up combinations that tackled the rally and finally...a pair of rally-goers discuss the merits of their respective BMWs

A FUNNY SMELL?

THE EARTH MOVED Ray Leach, last year’s (ahem) winner of the Chatto Creek 1000-Miler, was not afraid to give his BMW 1200 K-series the berries along here, and he told me later that he enjoyed feeling the bike moving around.

The morning concluded with a speedy run back to Reefton, returning over the now dry Rahu Saddle, with just a brief detour to the third checkpoint, reached by a foot crossing of a swing bridge over the Inangahua River.

LUNCH TIME A sunny and pleasant lunch break at the Reefton Church refreshed the 90 or so riders, and then it was into the longer afternoon ride. Everyone was looking forward to an exciting blast down the lower Buller Gorge to Westport, and the pace was certainly on as far as Inangahua Junction, but then encountering the cycling tail-enders in the 160km Source to the Sea bike race meant caution had to temper the 56 KIWI RIDER

TWELVE NOT OUT! Like Douglas Adams’ five part ‘trilogy’ of The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy, Andrew has successfully run twelve Bottled Lightning Rallies in a series of ten. He must be doing something right – Andy and Jo White, from Nelson, have attended all 12 on the same Honda VFR750. Will there be a 13th next year?

We’ll have to wait and see, but if there is, I’m up for it. KR

front and being two-up there’s plenty of grip at the rear, so we powered past numerous riders who were taking it carefully and safely – there was still 450km to go.

After twenty more kilometres north, a short shingle road brought us to the first checkpoint, up the delightfully named Rappahannock Road, and then it was on to the second checkpoint at the Maruia Falls, another 30km north.

batteries, light bulbs, or balloons the same way again.

one of the least used, and best roads for motorcycling in the country.

AN HOUR’S BLAST A sidetrack up Darkies Terrace Road to the sheltered clearing of checkpoint five at the foot of the Paparoa Range was the only interruption in an hour’s blast along this scenic ribbon of fun and so to the final checkpoint east of Greymouth at the Buller Mine memorial. Another hour later, we were back in Reefton, 500km completed, and gathering at the Working Men’s Club for dinner and prize giving.

Andrew had promised some interesting entertainment during the meal, and this turned out to be a musical history of the electric revolution in the town, and some practical puzzles to be solved. I’ll never think of banjos,

KIWI RIDER 57

58 KIWI RIDER

I had a strange flashback the other day.

One of those moments where your head exhumes a brief, but sharp and clear, thought out of nowhere...and sparked by nothing.

Usually they arrive as the result of something you see or something you hear.

But while simply watching birds eating sprinkled crumbs of bread and old cereal on my back lawn I had ‘carless days’ pop into my head. That strangest of strange times when cars had a label attached to their windscreens indicating which day they were not to be driven on.

It was when the oil prices went through the roof, somewhere back in the `70s, and I think dad’s Hillman Minx was sidelined for Wednesdays.

I don’t think it applied to motorcycles, although as my brain toyed with the ridiculous concept of being told not to drive on a certain day, it recalled a time (I think it was a year or so into the ‘80s) when petrol was not sold on Sundays.

Again, it was introduced by the government of the day as an oil saving measure. Unlikely as it seems, and given my memory is at times prone to resemble a Ural on a superbike grid, it must have happened because two memories are etched vividly on my mind.

As I sat and watched a thrush sneak off with a clump of rye from under the beak of a noisy myna, I remembered the day I took the rather modestly tanked CB350/4 to Manfeild to watch a Sunday race meeting.

MORONEY ROGER MORONEY

THE FIRST FUEL CRISIS I knew it would get me there as it would do 160km before beginning to gasp for food, but there was no way I’d get back.

So I filled a five litre tin with petrol and strapped it the back of the bike, and set out a little earlier so I could ride slightly more sedately to conserve gas.

The can remained sealed until I arrived, and all was well as I topped up the tank to the brim after parking up at the track.

I had a fine day. It was sunny and hot. I saw some good racing and met a few familiar faces, but upon arriving back at the bike to go home I saw that the expansion of fuel (it was a very hot day) had caused it to seep out all over the tank...a tank I had sprayed myself and flashed up with gold pin-stripe tape.

The paint had bubbled and the tape had lifted.

I vowed never to vote for that bastard government again.

There was another time too when I shot over to Taupo and began to realise (as I hit the plains of Rangitaiki) that all the hauling up hills had stretched the consumption of the little four. I went on to reserve at the pub and began to panic by the time I rode past Opepe...at a hopefully more fuel efficient 80km/h.

Those final kilometres to the gas station just out from De Bretts were nothing less than terrifying.

“Don’t run out...don’t run out,” I heard myself whispering.

I made it. When I shook the bike at the bowser there was no sound of sloshing fuel within. I also remember (after the Manfeild fuel-stripping episode) being told by a mate that

‘Those final kilometres to the gas station just out from De Bretts were nothing less than terrifying. “Don’t run out...don’t run out,” I heard myself whispering’ there was always petrol available on a Sunday, despite the dopey law, at a truck stop in Woodville (or it could have been Dannevirke).

One of the pumps took coins to operate, but not everyone was in the know. The truck boys weren’t worried... most of them ran diesel anyway.

So a couple of bikers dropping 50 cent pieces into the coin-operated petrol job didn’t bother them. Next time down that way I took a look...and they were right. There was a coin-operated pump.

But by then the Sunday fuel ban had been axed...and I’d got a professional to re-do the tank.

I’m afraid to feed the birds now.

Dunno what’ll flash back next... KR

KIWI RIDER 59

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The railway line passes behind my work, and the milk train rattles by daily – up to Fonterra, I guess.

Each wagon’s 60,000-odd litres of milk is destined to become blue-top, cheese or butter that working-class Kiwis can’t afford; and I find that thought-provoking. It serves to remind me what a bunch of lilylivered morons we have in the Beehive.

Back when MPs were Real Men – as opposed to the sort of racist moron who’d call you a motherfucker because he didn’t like the colour of your skin – we had a chap there called Fraser (later Prime Minister Peter Fraser) and he spent the year of 1916 in jail.

His crime? A very reasonable refusal to conscript working class men to their deaths in the trenches of World War One unless the assets of the wealthy of the country were also conscripted for the war effort.

‘Sedition.’ The judge gave him twelve months and he served every day of it.

Today’s Ministers don’t even have the spine to enact legislation that would make primary produce available to Kiwis priced somewhere around the cost of production, rather than at whatever the export value happens to be at the time.

but no healthy business climate should countenance hungry kids. And, regardless of the colour of his skin, any Minister who condones this deserves the MoFo label.

So, yes, I find those long silver cylinders that make up the back of the milk train thought-provoking. But the front gets me thinking, too.

That milk’s heavy – fifty-eight tonnes per wagon? – so it takes several engines to pull them all. And as they pass – newlypainted in their Kiwirail livery, with the silver fern logo morphing into a stylized railtrack – I like what I see.

I guess for all sorts of reasons it makes no economic sense for New Zealand to own rails and rolling stock.

But I don’t give a shit about that.

Important parts of our country (not those important to big business, but important to the working people who make businesses big) should be both locally-owned, and run for the benefit of the Ordinary Bloke – and his kids.

Nobody should be hungry when we grow the best food in the world; and it’s a crime that any child should go to school breakfast-less, any pensioner eat catfood, or any working parent look across a table at the face of a hungry child.

Electricity should be sold to households at cost. Wages should be sufficient to allow that Ordinary Bloke to buy a house and feed his kids without Ms Ordinary having to work too (or the other way around) – unless (s)he wants to. And ACC levies should be added onto the price of petrol so the more you use the more it costs you – regardless of whether you ride your bike on the road or the dirt; and recognising that you can only use one vehicle at a time.

Of course New Zealand must have a political climate that encourages growth;

I guess – allowing for the spineless morons we do have in the Beehive – at

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‘Of course New Zealand must have a political climate that encourages growth; but no healthy business climate should countenance hungry kids’ least seventy percent of the above is wishful thinking.

But I find all those people/family/social issues thought-provoking.

Not least since, tonight, my daughter and granddaughter are passing through Auckland International Airport in the wee small hours of tomorrow morning, enroute to a distant family crisis, and the awful credit-card pain of international airfares that accompany such things. The least I can do is to ride up overnight to give them a pat on the back as they pass through.

The GS is sitting in the driveway.

We both need a good run; and it’s about 600kms each way. I’m booked into some airport motel, and we’re ready to roll.

People are important. Balance sheets are not. KR

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KIWI RIDER 61

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62 KIWI RIDER

How did that happen?

I was peeling off the big sweeper on the track at a good pace and looking for the next corner when the view changed.

Suddenly the white line was flashing by me as I slid along the tarmac on my butt and out of the corner of my eye, I could see my bike veering off the track on its side.

I felt only surprise. There’d been no warning; no twitch or slide, no sensation of losing it, nor pain when I hit the ground – and there was certainly no time for fear.

Falling off solved the mystery of what it really feels like to part company with a bike. Many people shudder when you mention motorbikes and they reckon you’d never catch them giving it a go.

I wouldn’t say I’m fearless but I’m OK with taking a calculated risk, and while I don’t deny that motorcycle racing can be a dangerous sport, I reckon it comes down to managing that risk.

Firstly, I acknowledge that there is some risk and secondly, I do what I can to minimize it. For me, this means becoming informed. For me too, risk and fear are closely linked and I’ve discovered that the more I know, the less afraid I am. Fear of the unknown – when I don’t understand something, haven’t encountered it before and/or can’t predict the results – can be severely limiting.

The only real answer is to gather

information to broaden my understanding and then use that knowledge to improve my skills, which should reduce the risk and therefore the fear.

What’s happening with my bike in a turn/when I brake hard/open the throttle?

How can I influence that?

I’ve learned more about physics since getting out on the track than I ever picked up in a classroom. And what’s more, I really care now because I know that the more I know, the safer my skin will be.

I took a good look at my feelings of fear. What am I afraid of, exactly?

Is it the unknown? Or am I scared of failure – what if I’m no good at racing?

Overcoming the fear of failure can be incredibly liberating. It frees you up to have a go at anything and opens the door to becoming good at it.

Or is it pain I’m scared of? I now know that the anticipation of pain is often greater than the real thing. Examining the odds with a little reason and logic helped to put things into perspective. How many riders race at a typical meeting? How many of those fall off? And how many of those riders actually hurt themselves?

What are the odds that I’ll be one of them?

A proven way to reduce the fear response is through repeated exposure.

The answer to a fear of flying for instance, is to go flying. And the rewards are enormous. Conquering fear generates

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FEELING THE FEAR

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Falling off solved the mystery of what it really feels like to part company with a bike’ an addictive physiological response. The flood of adrenalin leads to a natural high of giddiness and elation – check out the riders’ faces when their helmets come off after a race.

A little fear is healthy; it keeps us from total recklessness, yet we can’t help admiring riders who appear to have none.

“He rides like he just doesn’t care” was a comment I heard at a race recently.

In the end, it comes down to your personal limits. A motocross rider once told me he doesn’t ride on the road because it’s too risky and many road riders say they’d never race because it’s dangerous. I take a deep breath before I pull out of the pits and onto the track but I’m grinning too; feeling the fear and doing it anyway. KR

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KIWI RIDER 63

64 KIWI RIDER

They’ll be back this year. Who? ACC, of course.

To recap, for the benefit of those living under rocks. Last October ACC proposed new increases for motorcycles levies. Enormous ones. Bikers were horrified and protested, loudly. The BIKEOI! sent 7000 bikes to Parliament.

Bikers sent over 2000 submissions to ACC (most years they get about 20).

ACC, predictably, completely ignored them all, and the final ACC proposals were much the same as the originals.

So, it came down to an eyeball-toeyeball between the bikers and ACC Minister Nick Smith (with, perhaps, Mr Key in the background). And the Minister blinked. Not much and not for long, but enough to get the increases scaled back somewhat.

But we’re not happy. Somewhat relieved, but decidedly not happy.

Firstly, the new increases are still very heavy increases – 100 per cent in some cases. Okay, overall they are at a level that motorcycling can live with. Like invalids live with arthritis, diabetes or chronic pain. They live with it because they have no choice, and it’s not immediately fatal. The levies hurt, but they won’t kill off motorcycling as the originals would have.

There will always be riders who are living on the fiscal knife edge and cannot afford any increase, let alone a big one. But overall, there won’t be many bikers forced to sell their machines; the

COLUMNS BRONZ

THEY’LL BE BACK! industry is unlikely to fall back into the sort of death spiral it went into in the late nineties.

But, it’s still a big increase. Too big. And wrong. Wrong, because it’s discriminatory. Wrong because it makes no provision for people with multiple vehicles. Wrong because it is contrary to the Woodhouse principles on which ACC is based.

And apart from the actual levy increases we lost another very important point: one that long term is more serious than the size of any one year’s levy. We failed to overturn the invidious separation of bikes into sub 600cc and over 600cc, with different rates for each.

That’s serious, because having the bigger bikes separated out makes it easier for ACC (and MoT) to target them; to claim, “we are not attacking motorcycles – just those big loud nasty dangerous ones. They don’t need motorcycles that big, little ones are quite adequate for commuting.” Divide and conquer.

At least we’ve gained some time.

Time to work on forestalling ACC’s next attack, in October 2010. Because it will be back. And next time it won’t make the mistakes it did this time.

We need to keep up the pressure throughout the year, reminding ACC and the politicians that we haven’t forgotten, and we won’t forgive.

Campaign 2010 will probably be

‘Okay, overall they are at a level that motorcycling can live with. Like invalids live with arthritis, diabetes or chronic pain’

different to that of 2009 – we’ve won the hearts of middle New Zealand, now we have to win their minds. We must explain to people just why we object to what’s happening with ACC, why it’s wrong. And why it’s not just a motorcycle issue.

Who’s next?

The campaign goes on. Keep up to date with latest developments on the BRONZ website, www.bronz.org.nz. KR

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KIWI RIDER 65

CLASSICS MATCHLESS G80

WORDS & PICS: Rhys Jones

A Matchless G80 took pride of place on KR Classics correspondent Rhys Jones’ deck over the Christmas/New year break….

HOLIDAY GUEST That’s right, the bike in question was a 1952 500cc Matchless G80 which I was ‘baby-sitting’ until my brother, the rightful owner, came over to pick it up. It proved to be a great conversation starter over the holiday period.

There are several brands from the ‘Golden Era’ of British motorcycles that inspire a degree of reverence reserved for something very special. The aptly named Matchless is surely one of these. It must be said that other Matchless machines now seem more glamorous than the G80; like the 1931-35 Silver Hawk with an overhead camshaft, V4 engine, with a top speed of around 140km/h. Or the very competitive G50 race bike of the 1958-63 period. But the G80 has a pedigree that places it amongst that very British of pre and post war traditions, the single cylinder four-stroke. The lineup includes BSA, Norton, AJS, Royal Enfield, and Velocette.

FIRST COMPETITION SUCCESS

Immaculate G80 model Matchless belongs to KR Classics columnist Rhys Jones’ brother.

The first significant competition success for Matchless was in 1907 when Charlie Collier won the first ever Isle of Man

Senior TT in the single cylinder class. The race was ten laps in length, and Collier’s winning time was four hours and 8.2 seconds, a race average of 61.12km/h. By today’s standards, of course, that would be considered an endurance race. But not in those days.

Matchless had a long association with the Isle of Man, with Peter Williams second behind Mike Hailwood’s Honda in the 1967 Senior TT, and second again behind Giacomo Agostini’s MV in 1971.

The last victory on the Island was American Don Roper in the Classic Historic 500 race in 1984, with Ian Lougher on another Matchless second.

Roper’s fastest lap was 155.53km/h, and that’s on a single cylinder bike with an engine design that originated in the 1930s.

In the Southern Hemisphere in recent times Dave Cole has made his mark at Classic meetings on both sides of the Tasman.

SOME HISTORY Matchless took over the bankrupt AJS KIWI RIDER 67

CLASSICS MATCHLESS G80

Many enthusiastic riders at the time knew where to get aviation fuel, but most had to settle for low octane petrol. The advantage of the low compression ratio is that it makes the bike easier to kick start, and very flexible at low revs. It will, for instance, tick over at 32km/h in top gear.

GOOD ADVICE In a G80 owner’s manual from the early 1950s the following note appeared.

“Now that pre-war quality fuels are again available owners are advised to use only the best. The small economy that might be considered to accrue by using the cheaper grades is more than offset by the advantages obtained by using only Number One Grades.”

company in 1931 and moved it to their Woolwich base in London. In 1935 Matchless introduced the G3, which heralded the beginning of the AJS and Matchless range of single cylinder engines that were produced until 1966, a thirty year blood-line rarely equaled in British motorcycle history.

Before the war they were built in 250, 350 and 500 form, but after the war only the 350 and 500 continued. The AJS was known as model 16. So close were the models that apart from the decals the difference appeared to be that the magneto was mounted ahead of the cylinder on the AJS, and behind on the Matchless.

Matchless would eventually move the magneto ahead of the cylinder in 1952.

After the war the most significant changes to the Matchless single seemed to be in the suspension. Associated Motorcycles, or AMC, was the company that owned both AJS and Matchless, and in 1941 they gave the G3 telescopic front forks, but the rear end took a lot of sorting out.

THE G80 It wasn’t until 1951, in fact, when the so called ‘jam pot’ rear shocks appeared on the G80 that the rear end seemed settled. The G80 has a single cylinder, two valve, push-rod, four-stroke motor.

The bike pictured on my deck is a 498cc 1952 model. 348cc motors were available in the same chassis. Bore and stroke is 82.5 x 93mm. The carburettor is 27mm, and the compression ratio 5.9:1.

Claimed power is 17 kW (23.5bhp) @ 5,400rpm, and the top speed 124km/h.

The low compression ratio is said to be a result of ‘pool’ petrol immediately after the war.

68 KIWI RIDER

1952 model G80 model represented state-of-the-art British ‘big single’ engineering of the period with telescopic forks and ‘jam pot’ twin rear shock absorbers.

The G80 is a fine old bike, and runs well. It has a WOF and is registered. If only a bike like this could talk and tell us in detail what it has been doing over the last fifty eight years. It has been a welcome guest at my place during the holidays. KR

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FUNKY FISH WORDS & PICS: Dave Wyatt What I really liked was it wasn’t served with chips but whole potatoes, and the beetroot which made the dish simple but full of flavour.

DETAILS

One of the great things about riding motorcycles is the camaraderie between fellow riders.

The Funky Fish is a café, restaurant and bar and on Sundays there is usually a band playing. They change their menus every couple of weeks with a specials board, and on Thursday and Friday nights they have a Thai chef on, cooking traditional Thai cuisine.

It doesn’t matter whether you ride in Europe, the States or Japan for that matter.

If you’re wobbling around on two wheels you are part of a group of free-spirited travelers who choose to ride a metal horse.

The place can seat 40 inside, 30 outside and yes, you can book it for private functions. The surroundings are funky to say the least and reflect the beach culture with the cool artwork (you have really got to check out the loo). Check out their website www. thefunkyfish.co.nz.

It was upon his 2010 Ultra Classic Harley-Davidson that I recently came across a traveler visiting from a distant shore (Canada) and after exchanging a few pleasantries we started talking bikes, touring and food.

To cut a long story short I invited him along to visit a café I had heard about up in kumara country called The Funky Fish.

After thanking our host for a great lunch we headed for home clocking up 400 kms for the round trip. My Canadian friend could not say enough about our little slice of paradise and to be honest it made me feel proud to be a Kiwi showing off the place we rightly refer to as Godzone.

GO NORTH YOUNG MAN We met on the outskirts of Warkworth and headed north, the weather really putting on a show for our visitor with not a cloud in the sky and the tar-seal shimmering in the heat ahead of us as we rumbled along the long, flat straights of lower Northland.

Perfect weather, in other words, for a cruise!

The Funky Fish is located at Baylys Beach, on the coast just north of Dargaville.

I had looked it up on the net and decided I had to check it out. And having now entertained my Harley-riding friend there, I can honestly say I’m glad I did.

WELCOME TO THE FUNKY FISH! We were greeted by Beth the owner and after a quick chat I asked what she would recommend to a couple of hungry travelers, to which she replied; ‘the chowder is pretty good and the beer-battered fish and chips are always popular.’

Funky Fish Café lives up to its name on all fronts from wacky nautical theme to superb seafood-based dishes. Strategic spot near Dargaville means it’s the perfect stopping off spot for bikers heading to or from the Far North

We went with Beth’s recommendations and while we waited on our lunch we were served up some kumara strips to munch on; very tasty indeed.

DONE TO PERFECTION My new-found friend had the chowder and I had the fish and chips. For Beth to say that the chowder was pretty good was an understatement and the beerbattered dory was done to perfection.

On another tack altogether, big thanks from the Canadian to Auckland Motorcycles & Powersports for looking after him and sorting him out a bike with true professionalism, something lacking in that department, apparently, state-side. KR

QUICK STOP VENUE: The Funky Fish AREA: Northland ADDRESS: Baylys Beach Northland FOCUS: Café/Restaurant/Bar SIGNATURE DISH: Chowder, Fish & Chips COST RANGE: $15-$21 for dinner RATING: 4.5 stars

KIWI RIDER 71

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ROAD COMPETITION R/R CHAMPS

SUZUKI STARS SHARE LIMELIGHT AT LEVELS

Hassan set a new lap record at Levels on his way to finishing third in the weekend’s first 125GP race.

He backed that up with second and fourth placings in the next two races and this was enough for him to take over the No.2 spot in the championship, albeit still 69 points behind Honda’s Hoogenboezem. e In the sidecars class it was once again the Stephen Bron and Dennis Simonsen show with the Wanganui men taking their Suzuki-powered rig to another hat-trick of wins.

Bron and Stephenson now lead the championship by 34 points from Canterbury pair Dave Annan and Warwicks Demmocks (Suzuki). KR

Kiwi Andrew Stroud claimed a race win and a new class lap record at Levels

Hamilton’s national #2 Andrew Stroud and Australia’s defending champion Robbie Bugden shared the day’s wins on their respective GSX-R1000 machines at the third round of the 2010 Castrol Power1 New Zealand Superbike championship at Timaru’s Levels Raceway over the January 30-31 weekend.

As it had been since the start of the series, it was edge-of-the seat racing with nothing to separate the pair through both superbike races at Levels, Stroud winning the first one by just 0.09 tenths of a second from Budgen.

The Kiwi champion in 2007, 2008 and 2009, Brisbane’s Budgen responded with a start-to-finish win in the second race, crossing the line just three-tenths of a second ahead of Stroud after 15 furious laps.

standings.

Cole has been a revelation this season and, were it not for a snapped chain in the second race at round two at Teretonga, he would easily be leading the class.

Cole has won four of the five races he’s finished and placed runner-up in the other.

Meanwhile, changes were in the air in the Formula Three class with Jason Easton coming on strong at Levels, moving up to second in the standings.

Easton took his Aprilia Tigcraft bike to 1-2-1 results at Levels and is now within just 11 points of defending champion Glen Williams (Suzuki), while former champion Terry Fitzgerald (Suzuki), of Taranaki, slipped back to third overall.

It could easily have been a 1-1 result for the Kiwi but a final-lap challenge from Stroud didn’t work out. Stroud did, however, smash the outright lap record in that race with a sizzling time of 1m 03.598s.

A MINOR HICCUP

While Feilding Honda rider Craig Shirriffs twice finished third at Levels, it remains a Suzuki 1-2-3 on the championship standings with a first-timer in the class, Christchurch’s James Smith, finishing fourth and fifth in Levels’ two superbike races, enough to keep him third in the standings.

Booth won the weekend’s first two race but failed to finish the third leg and, although Christchurch’s James Hoogenboezem pounced to win that race, Booth remains in front in the championship chase, although now by just three points from Hoogenboezem.

SIX POINT ADVANTAGE In the other class he is contesting this year, 600cc Sports Production, the 29-year-old Smith finished 2-1 at Levels, sharing the day’s overall honours with Hamilton’s Nick Cole (Kawasaki ZX6R) and maintaining his six-point advantage at the top of the

A minor hiccup at Levels could not deny Dannevirke’s Geoff Booth (Suzuki) from maintaining his hold on the championship lead in the 650 Pro Twins class.

Meanwhile, Hoogenboezem’s bother, Alastair, is still the man to beat in the 125GP class.

With Dunedin’s defending champion in the class, Tim McArthur (Honda), heading to the sidelines with injury at the previous round, Auckland teenager Jaden Hassan (Yamaha) took the opportunity to step up.

RESULTS 2010 CASTROL POWER1 NZ SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP RND 3 LEVELS TIMARU JAN 30-31 Points after Rnd 3 of 5 Superbikes: 1. Andrew Stroud (Suzuki) 128 points; 2. Robbie Bugden (Suzuki) 115; 3. James Smith (Suzuki) 86. 600cc Sports Production: 1. James Smith (Suzuki) 126 points; 2. Nick Cole (Kawasaki) 120; 3.

John Ross (Yamaha) 97. 125GP 1. Alastair Hoogenboezem (Christchurch, Honda) 200 points; 2. Jaden Hassan (Yamaha) 131. 3. Eric Oliver-Maxwell (Honda) 112 Formula 3 1.

Glen Williams (Suzuki) 194 points; 2. Jason Easton (Aprilia) 183.3. Terry Fitzgerald (Suzuki) 153; 650 Pro Twin 1. Geoff Booth (Suzuki) 185 points; 2. James Hoogenboezem (Suzuki) 182; 3. Jason Cameron (Suzuki) 136; Super Motard 1. Hayden Scorringe (Yamaha) 168 points; 2. John Crawford (Suzuki) 165; 3.

Darcy Prendergast (Honda) 151. Streetstock senior 1. Jarred Pyke (Kawasaki) 197 points; 2. Sam Davison (Suzuki) 126; 3. Phil Denovan (Suzuki)103. Streetstock junior 1. Johnny Small (Suzuki) 201 points; 2. Anthony Singer (Suzuki) 146. 3. Seth Devereaux (Kawasaki) 133; Sidecars 1.Stephen Bron and Dennis Simonsen 150 points; 2. Dave Annan and Warwicks Demmocks 116; 3. Peter Goodwin and Pion Weedon 97.

KIWI RIDER 73

ROAD COMPETITION RR CHAMPS RND 2

Race 2 winner Robbie Bugden leads Andrew Stroud and Sloan Frost at Teretonga.

NEW! WORDS: Staff PIC: Andrew Bright/Championship Digital

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STROUD RETAINS POINTS LEAD Suzuki rider Andrew Stroud retained his early Castrol Power1 NZ Superbike championship series points lead despite the controversy that surrounded round two of the NZ Superbike Series at Teretonga over the January 23-24 weekend.

A protest after the race upheld Australian Robbie Budgen’s second win in the closely-fought Superbike series.

In that 16 lap race Bugden made use of a good start, however Suzuki rival Andrew Stroud slowly worked his way through the field to challenge and pass the Australian by mid-race.

Bugden was never far behind on his Triple R Mack Truck Suzuki GSX-R1000 but, after the white flag was waved showing one lap to go, Stroud ran wide at the final turn, allowing Bugden through to take the chequered flag. Craig Shirriffs completed the podium in third position for Honda.

OPENING RACE During the day’s opening 15 lap Superbike race, Bugden’s team-mate and leading 600 Supersport rider James Smith led for the first part of the race

on his GSX-R1000, until Stroud and Bugden forced their way through. Stroud went on to win the race just ahead of Bugden, with Smith third for a Suzuki clean sweep.

James Smith meanwhile took his first victory in the ultracompetitive 600 Sports Production class at Teretonga.

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WINDY CONDITIONS In windy but fine conditions the Christchurch rider was third to Nick Cole and John Ross in race one after a race-long battle. In the second heat however, Cole’s machine suffered a mechanical problem, allowing Smith to cross the line an easy first ahead of Karl Morgan on a similar bike and Yamaha mounted Ross.

Smith also took over the 600 Sports Production championship lead and held a slender six point advantage heading into the third round at Timaru the weekend after (see report page 73).

Alistair Hoozenboezem remained unbeaten in the 125 class, while in the F3 category Jason Easton won the opening race and defending F3 champion Glen Williams won the remaining two races. KR

RESULTS 2010 CASTROL POWER1 SUPERBIKE

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CHAMPIONSHIP RND 2 TERETONGA PARK INVERCARGILL JAN 23-24 . Points after Rnd 2 Superbikes 1. Andrew Stroud 83; 2. Robbie Bugden 70; 3. James Smith, 62; 4. Sloan Frost, 58; 5. Craig Shirriffs, 45. 600 Sports Production: 1. James Smith (Suzuki GSX-R600) 81; 2. Nick Cole 75; 3. John Ross 65;4. Jamie Galway 55; 5. Karl Morgan, 51.

74 KIWI RIDER

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He said he was ready to take the battle to arch rival Robbie Bugden and that’s exactly what Andrew Stroud (Suzuki) did at the opening round of this year’s Castrol Power 1 New Zealand Superbike Championships at Christchurch’s Ruapuna Park on Sunday January 17.

For the past three seasons it has been Australian interloper Robbie Bugden who has crossed the Tasman to steal away the coveted Kiwi title and he was hoping to make it four in a row this year.

THE BALANCE SHIFTS It certainly looked a distinct possibility when the Suzuki rider from Brisbane won the first of two superbike races on Sunday – albeit less than a second ahead of Christchurch Suzuki rider James Smith – and Stroud crossed the line in a disappointing fourth spot.

But the 42-year-old Stroud, a seven-time former champion, is possibly as fast now as at any time in his career and the balance of power swung convincingly in the Waikato man’s favour when he ran off to an impressive victory in the next outing, winning the race by a whopping 15.9 seconds.

That race win also gave Stroud the New Zeaaland Superbike GP title.

ROAD COMPETITION RR CHAMPS RND 1

STROUD TOPS ROUND 1 PODIUM Bugden, meanwhile, found had himself stuck in traffic and his bid to break free ended in disaster as he crashed his bike on the opening lap, the damage meaning he couldn’t continue.

Another Hamilton rider, Sloan Frost (Suzuki), finished 3-2 to take second overall for the day, while Smith’s 2-4 placings gave him the third step on the superbike podium.

One of very few riders to tackle two classes this season, Smith had his work cut out to keep sight of Hamilton’s Nick Cole in the 600cc sports production class.

SIMPLY SENSATIONAL Kawasaki-mounted Cole was simply sensational, winning both 600cc races by a comfortable margin with Smith runner-up both times..

In the 125GP class, Christchurch rider Alastair Hoogenboezem reigned supreme, winning all three races at the weekend and establishing a 19-point buffer over defending champion Tim McArthur, of Dunedin. KR

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RESULTS 2010 CASTROL POWER1 N.Z. SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP RND 1 POWERBUILT TOOLS RACEWAY AT RUAPUNA PARK JAN 16-17 Superbikes: 1. Andrew Stroud (Hamilton, Suzuki) 38 points; 2. Sloan Frost (Hamilton, Suzuki) 36; 3. James Smith (Christchurch, Suzuki) 33.

600cc Sports Production: 1. Nick Cole (Hamilton, Kawasaki) 50 points; 2. James Smith (Christchurch, Suzuki) 40; 3. John Ross (Christchurch, Yamaha) 29.

KIWI RIDER 75

ROAD COMPETITION SUPERMOTO WORDS & PICS: Todd S.

SUPERMOTO STAR SHARES HIS SECRETS

Just before Christmas, Kiwirider was invited to Taupo to a day in which visiting Italian Supermoto star Ivan Lazzerini could pass on his skills. We sent Todd S. to brush up on ‘backn’ it in’.

76 KIWI RIDER

Ivan Lazzerini finished third in the (S1-450cc) 2009 World Supermoto Championships and was coaxed to our shores by Honda importer Blue Wing and accessory wholesaler Northern Accessories to compete in the Suzuki Tri Series.

The day at Taupo was part Honda Riders’ Club bash/part meet-and-greet and part school-for-doing-skids for anyone (like me) who had the desire and inclination to learn. I just happened to be in the middle of the North Island (yeah right! Ed) on a sales trip so…..all I had to do was cancel a few appointments and get my body and

bike to the track.

There, Steven Croad, whose CRF450 Supermotard conversion recently featured in Kiwirider, introduced me to Ivan and Paolo his mechanic. Croad was instrumental in getting the pair (who were subsequently joined down-under by countryman, and TM racer Davide Gozzini) over for a brief working holiday. After a brief discussion, with Croad and the Italian pair it was a case of gearing up for some on track tuition and arranging to have a word with Paolo a little later in the day.

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FACING PAGE: Italian Supermotard star Ivan Lazzerini turned teacher at Taupo Motorsport Park just before Christmas, imparting his knowledge to a keen bunch of locla students including KR’s own Todd S. THIS PAGE: Ironically Lazzerini found even the tighter corners at the Taupo car and bike track too fast and open for the sort of kicking-the-tail-out entries most of the riders wanted to learn…that didn’t stop him trying at the ‘A1 chicane’ at the end of the back straight though!

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was evident when Ivan demonstrated his technique into Taupo’s turn one. We all gathered, baited breath, waiting for the full lock ‘hack’ into the turn and it didn’t happen.

es

“The corner is too fast for that technique to be useful,” Ivan commented, (and so it proved for two of the three circuits they raced in the series, with Cemetery Circuit providing at least limited opportunities).

Instead, he offered some helpful tips, pointing out track irregularities and the correct lines but for the most part hacking doesn’t work on most of our courses.

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Here in New Zealand we don’t do a lot of racing on kart tracks (save Taumarunui on occasion) and there are very few true Supermoto (dirt and road) meetings. We tend to have our bikes revving their heads off, consequently, when Ivan talked about moving our body position forward to a more centralized (more motocross style than road) position, the benefits weren’t immediately obvious. His corner speed however, very much was.

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NOT-A-SO-DIFFICULT! Ivan went on to demonstrate corner entry into a slower turn (a tighter option into the final

chicane) and there the Italian showed some of that stylish hacking style. It certainly looked good and as he explained, with a slipper clutch and some practice in a quiet place, around a couple of cones ‘you’ll find it isn’t that difficult.’ That may well be the case. The trick is being able do it with anything like the speed Ivan demonstrated it at.

Seeing as how I’ve done a bit of this Supermoto/ motarding over the years, old Ivan and I seemed to get on fairly well, to the point where he agreed to talk further about the sport, the bikes and what goes into setting something like Stephen Croad’s ‘Bling Bike’ up.

I’ve run out of space this time though so I’ll keep that for a separate story next month.

Until then it’s the usual groveling thanks to Blue Wing Honda, Steven Croad from Northern Accessories and the Cemetery Circuit team for helping get the Italians out and putting the day at Taupo together.

Oh, and Boyd Motorcycles for the use of their, er, RMZ450!

For more information see www.supermotard.co.nz KR KIWI RIDER 77

ROAD COMPETITION BRIAN WOOD

for the ďŹ rst race (F1) and on dry weather tyres I got a good start entering the ďŹ rst turn second. Within half a lap I was leading and I pushed for a few laps and when I took a glimpse back I had a lead of about ďŹ ve seconds. With the race seemingly in the bag I continued to push but it started to rain, heavily.

WORDS & PIC: Brian Wood

ROAD RACING WITH BRIAN WOOD

My Dunlop D211 tyres are superb in the dry, I believe, the best tyre out there but theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in no way a rain tyre. My pace slowed as the rain fell and slowly I got reeled in by the straight line pace of a 1000cc bike, its rider sneaking past about a lap from the ďŹ nish meaning I had to settle for a disappointing second.

MORE TRICKS

After two wet meetings and two crashes it was great to arrive at the test day for the PaciďŹ c Motorcycle Club, Manfeild weekend in glorious sunshine and 27°C heat.

Manfeild, normally a tedious six hour plus drive is now just two as I moved to Wellington over the holidays and the track is now my â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;localâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; circuit. Having only ridden there once before, back in the winter series of 2008, it felt much better in the heat of summer and despite trafďŹ c, I set good times building my conďŹ dence for the National series races there.

THEN IT RAINEDâ&#x20AC;Ś Then it rained. Or at least Sunday dawned grey and overcast with light rain showers and a cold day, the weather gods having

decided to pee on my racing, again!

Racers hate â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;marginalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; conditions as tyre choice is always something of a guess and theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be seen in showery weather outside pit garages staring into the distance pretending they can predict weather. OK, sometimes you can see rain nearby but generally itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;will it, wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; choice, dry or wet weather tyres.

Morning qualifying ran in just such conditions and having never ridden the track wet I took it easy, qualifying ďŹ fth in Formula 1 (1000cc) and then pushed hard in the dryer Formula 2 (600cc) session to grab pole position.

A GOOD STARTâ&#x20AC;Ś.

The weather cleared brieďŹ&#x201A;y to dry the track

There was just a race between the F1 and F2 but the weather played more tricks and dry tyres were the choice again but on the warm up lap it started raining and just got heavier. My plan in this case was to follow Lee Bradford intending to use him as a guide to the conditions and then pass, late in the race. We were both sliding around and built a large lead on ďŹ eld and it was all going to plan until the last turn on the fourth lap when I lost the back and got high sided.

Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s right, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d crashed AGAIN! My bike is OK and so am I but three crashes in three races is more than worrying, is this maybe time to call it a day?

Time for some serious thinking, certainly in terms of wet weather racingâ&#x20AC;Ś third time luckyâ&#x20AC;Ś..nope! KR

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I^em ImWf c[[j Saturday 20 February At Paeroa Racecourse, Thames Rd, Paeroa.

From 10am Street Parade BBQ & Bar Entries $5 Swap Site $10 Public $2

Race

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At the spectacular â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hacksaw

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%NTRY !DULTS YEARS AND FREE PROGRAMME 9OUNG PERSONS YEARS #HILDREN FREE Motorcycle clubs, groups, organised rallies welcome. Camping facilities available. Event organisers: Paeroa Promotions Trust Inc., in association with Auckland Motorcycle Club Inc.

78 KIWI RIDER

MNZ Permit No. 11823

citing Street New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most ex uit

(07) 862 6898 for information a Paeroa Rotary Club event

KIWI RIDER 79

s e k i B m o t s u C & s y e Harl

The Ultimate Shocks for:

BLE EL, ADJUSTA E T S S S E L IN , STA HEAVY DUTY

S TWIN SHOCK

• Polished stainless steel bodies • Polished stainless steel springs • Full 2 year warranty • Adjustable spring preload • 18mm diameter hard chrome shaft • Black or silver anodised mounts • Full adjustable, high pressure gas damping (11 clicks) • Double acting shim stack valving just like a monoshock • With chunky 42mm bodies and 72mm springs, they look right on a big bike.

Available now from your nearest Harley or Japanese franchised dealer

Distributed by Eurobike Wholesale Ltd

80 KIWI RIDER

EHAKR002

ROAD COMPETITION NELSON STREET RACE

Local (MX) hero Josh Coppins was a popular addition to the Super Motard field at this year’s Nelson Street Race meeting. Racing Dave has the story and a couple of pics with additional info courtesy Mitch Rowe and extra pics from his mate Chris Hogan.

COPPINS SWAPS CODES Josh Coppins is practically a Nelson lad (he was born and raised just down the road in Motueka. Ed) and when word of his first ever entry to the 16th annual New Year street race (on Saturday Jan 02) filtered out, spectator interest was high.

Although contracted to ride for Aprilia in World Motocross MX1 for 2010, it was on a Suzuki RM-Z450, modified for the Super Motard class, on which he was mounted.

Typically, street circuits are relatively short and tight, with slow corners, and this places a premium on braking, turning, and accelerating, which is just what a light and powerful bike enjoys.

BIG MOTARD NUMBERS Entry numbers in the Motard class were so high that it was split into two fields (SM1 and SM2, being over and under

450cc respectively) and the onlookers had double the value for their entry fee. Josh rode in both classes, and was cheered on to victories in all the SM2 races, and podium finishes behind Jayden Carrick and Mitch Rowe in SM1.

CHARLETT IMPRESSES Suzuki was the dominant brand in the Formula 1 and 2 classes as well, with Dennis Charlett racing his GSX-R600 in every race, and winning five of the seven.

With just two weeks until the first round of the National Championship, the risk versus reward ratio was carefully considered, and he was pursued closely on every lap.

Fellow Christchurch riders Dan Ornsby (Triumph 675) and Chris Alley (GSX-R1000) were his nearest rivals, and they had some ding-dong battles that left the result in doubt until the last corner.

RESULTS 2010 NELSON ROAD RACE NELSON JAN 02 Supermotard 1 1. Jayden Karrick; 2. Mitch Rowe; 3. Josh Coppins Supermotard 2/3 1.Josh Coppins; 2.

Mitch Rowe; 3. Jono Hamblin Formula 1 1.Dennis Charlett; 2. Dan Ornsby; 3. Nigel Healey Formula 2 1.Dennis Charlett; 2.

Dan Ornsby; 3. Ricky McKay Formula 3 1.Darren Franks; 2. Jock Woodley Pro Twin 1.Peter Rees; 2. Anthony Stephens; 3. Ian Greenwood Classics 1. Bruce Verdon; 2. Neville Wills; 3=. Dennis Isbister & Ian James Post Classics 1.Bernard Ryan; 2. Steve Le Billion; 3. Malcolm Pearce BEARS 1. Dan Ornsby; 2. Nigel Healey; 3.

Lee Munro King of the Port 1.Dennis Charlett; 2. Dan Ornsby; 3. Chris Elley

FULL PROGRAMME So it was in the other races. A full program featuring BEARS, Formula 3, Classics, and post-Classics entertained the holiday crowd throughout the day, with entries to the 10-lap final King of the Port Race supplied from the quickest bikes from any class. Once again, a well-deserved win went to Charlett.

MX and SX star Josh Coppins (above) impressed on his NZ Supermotard debut at the Nelson Road race meeting. Here he is seen tailing Mitch Rowe (#07) and Jayden Karrick (obscured) Photo courtesy Chris Hogan.

Christchurch’s Dennis Charlett (below) was the man to beat in the F1 and F2 classes. Picture: Racing Dave

KIWI RIDER 81

SHOWcase NEO Solo Jacket

)520

Introducing the new Solo Jacket... part of NEOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next generation textile clothing range. This stylish waterproof and breathable sport jacket impresses straight away with its new slim fit design, constructed from the latest lightweight materials including Dynatech.

Other features include, removable thermal lining, CE elbow and shoulder armour plus back protector, tension control straps on arms, adjustable waist straps, unique Dual Storm Flaps on zippers, and flow-thru Air Vent System for summer comfort.

Available in Sizes S to 7XL in Black or Black/Grey/White and priced from just $229. See your local NEO Stockist.

NEO Drift Jacket

)520

The all-new Drift Jacket combines classic styling with the latest hi-tech lightweight materials.

Protection is taken care by way of Cordura 600D with 1680D Nylon Matt construction plus leather reinforced shoulders, chest and arms, along with the usual CE elbow and shoulder protectors, and high density foam back protector. Waterproof and breathable, the Drift has a removable thermal lining, Dual Storm Flaps on YKK zippers, Air Vent System, sleeve tension control, adjustable waist belt, plenty of pockets, and 3M Scotchlite reflective piping. Available in traditional black in sizes S to 7XL. Priced from $339 at your NEO Stockist.

NEO Ranger Jacket

)520

Featuring Cordura 600D with 1680D Nylon Matt construction, the allnew Ranger is the Super Tourer of jackets. It offers superb protection from the elements with its unique Neck Warmer collar design, that can also be removed for Summer riding duties.

The Ranger is waterproof and breathable, and comes with removable thermal lining, CE elbow and shoulder protectors, A i r Ve n t S y s t e m , sleeve tension control, adjustable waist belt, and pockets aplenty. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find this brilliant new all-season jacket at your local NEO stockist, in a wide range of sizes from S up to 7XL. Priced from only $289.

MARCH Useful NEW Stuff....

2010 In your local Dealers now.

Muc-Off Chain Doc

-867

The good folk at Muc-Off certainly now how to take the hard work out of cleaning your pride and joy. The all-new Muc-Off Chain Doc is a simple yet incredibly effective way to clean built up grease from your chain. The device works by clipping over the chain and combining innovative rotary brushes with the new high performance Dry Chain Cleaner that brings your chain back to life and makes it sparkle again! The kit comes complete with a 400ml can of New Muc-Off Dry High Performance Chain Cleaner, Chain Doc device and a FREE trial size can of Muc-Off Dry PTFE Chain Lube, making it ready for cleaning and lubing straight out of the box! Cost is $119, and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find them at your local Muc-Off stockist.

Airoh Dragon

)520

The new Airoh Dragon has just landed on our shores. These premium range of Italian made helmets tick all the right boxes when it comes to protection, comfort and fit. Combine this with that unmistakable Airoh style, and you have the makings of a truly superb helmet. Top shelf features include Composite Fibre Shell, removable and washable liner, adjustable air intakes and extractors, anti-scratch quick release visor, 1200g weight, Double D-ring retention and ECE22.05 safety rating. Available in sizes XS to XXL in Blade Graphic (shown above) and Matt Black, priced from $720.

NEO Sprint 2 Gloves

)520

In need of some decent Summer gloves that keep you protected but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t melt your hands when the mercury climbs? NEOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new Sprint 2 glove could well be the answer. The Sprint 2 features leather and kevlar reinforced cordura, with added protection from hard knuckle armour, reinforced palm, padding on back of fingers and wrist, and double stitching on critical areas. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s venting that actually works, while everything is kept secure via the velcro adjustable wrist. Available in black in sizes S to 4XL and priced from $89. Visit your NEO Stockist today and take a look at the full range of Race, Road Sport, Commuter and Touring gloves. No matter your riding requirements, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re sure to find the right glove with NEO.

82 KIWIdealer RIDERdoesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have these fine products on their shelves, tell them to get some for you from Forbes & Davies Ltd. If your

IPERSPORT SILENCERS Giannelli of Italy has designed an all new silencer range called the Ipersport. With its revolutionary asymmetrical diamond shape the Ipersport is an excellent symbiosis between aesthetics and performance.

During development and prototyping, attention was given to weight reduction, the quality of the materials and the durability of the product. Ipersport is fully handmade using titanium, carbon and aluminium, with stainless steel models also available. The unique end-cap features an extractable dBkiller, so the silencer can be used on the street or at the track. Shown here fitted to a Kawasaki 250 Ninja. Aluminium slip-on street legal EU ch.9 with mid pipe $799.

Titanium slip-on street legal EU ch.9 with mid pipe (carbon fibre endcap) RRP $1199.

Available from all Piaggio/Vespa dealers.

1

HOT PRODUCTS ROAD

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2 GIANNELLI IPERSCOOTER SILENCER Michael Beckhaus passes me the keys to the Vespa 250GTS and drops a wry wink. ‘See how yah go with this one’ he says and walks me to the black beauty standing by the rear door at Triumph NZ HQ. The first turn of the key and stab of the starter button brings to life a more vibrant exhaust note than you usually get from a standard Vespa. The level of sound is not loud by any means, however is much more purposeful. As performance enhancements go the Giannelli silencer looks slick and refined, adding to the overall look of the scooter. Although the midrange throttle feels to have gained from the addition, the fuel injection system is very efficient so any improvement in power or economy is a plus. The quality of engineering, with the best materials available, ensure the life of the Giannelli system will match the life of the scooter Giannelli Iperscooter for Vespa GTS 250 and 300 Super $699. Available from all Piaggio/ Vespa dealers.

3 ZEUS 380 HELMET The Zeus 380 is a lightweight composite, thermo injected ABS alloy, open face helmet. Finished in high gloss paint, the 380 comes with a detachable peak and side domes for fitting a front visor. The 380 features twin top front air vents to keep the rider comfortable and cool. Completed with a seat belt fastened chin strap the 380 is the ideal helmet for the rider who likes to feel the wind on their face when riding. Sizes: XS-2XL in white, wine red, red, black. $179 from Nationwide Accessories 4 NEO DRIFT JACKET Part of NEO’s next generation textile jacket range, the Drift combines classic styling with the latest materials. Features Cordura 600D with 1680D Nylon Matt construction plus leather reinforced shoulders, chest and

1 5

3 4 arms. Waterproof and breathable, the Drift has a removable thermal lining, CE elbow and shoulder protectors, Dual Storm Flaps on YKK zippers, Air Vent System, velcro cuff closure, sleeve tension control, adjustable waist belt, plenty of pockets, and 3M Scotchlite reflective piping.

Available in traditional black in sizes S to 7XL. $339, distributor Forbes & Davies 5 TCX AURA WOMEN’S BOOTS A ladies foot is entirely different from a man’s in both shape and size; therefore it is vital that a woman chooses a boot made spe-

cifically for that fit. The all-new TCX Aura Women’s boot offer all the style, comfort and performance you would ever want.

Aura features: extra soft full grain leather uppers, waterproof lining, leather shift pad, thermo contoured shin plate, reinforced heel and toe counter. Using a zip + velcro band with rear leather elastic band for a better calf adjustment. The anatomic foot pad is replaceable for superior comfort and it has a touring sole with specific grip area and higher heel (27mm). Black in colour.

Size ranging from 35 – 42. $379 from Northern Accessories.

KIWI RIDER 83

1 TSUBAKI OMEGA CHAIN For over eighty years, Tsubaki has been devoted to improving the quality of roller chain, and in so doing has become the world’s leading manufacturer of chain products. The company now supplies chain in a huge variety of tyres, sizes and materials to meet diverse demands in a wide range of applications and maintains a long standing reputation for quality and reliability around the world. The OMEGA chain offers you an affordable sealed O-ring chain with optimal performance. $132-$174 from Nationwide Accessories.

4

2 2010 SHARK S900 FROST KAS HELMET This “Glow in the Dark” helmet from the new Shark S900 range featuring a unique design, aggressive and perfectly balanced. S900 thermoplastic injected shell has an integrated 2.2mm sunshield with double “Total Vision” treatment. A removable and washable inside padding, quick visor exchange and quick release chinstrap. The luminescent design brings you cool graphics during the day and your helmet glows at night allowing others to see you. The photo-luminescent ink reloads with light within 30 minutes and re-issues it for up to 2 hours. When you ride in the city or in an area with nightlights, the ink reloads and you are seen during your ride. This photo-luminescent ink is guaranteed non-toxic and non-irradiating. $499 from Northern Accessories.

3 MUC-OFF CHAIN DOC The all-new Muc-Off Chain Doc banishes grime from all motorcycle chains with minimal effort to vastly increase chain life and power efficiency. It clips over the chain and its innovative rotary brushes with the new high performance Dry Chain Cleaner bring your chain back to life and makes it sparkle again! The kit comes complete with a 400ml can of New Muc-Off Dry High Performance Chain Cleaner, Chain Doc device and a FREE trial size can of Muc-Off Dry PTFE Chain Lube, making it ready for cleaning and lubing straight out of the box!

It’s so simple to use, mess free and works in seconds. Suitable for all chain widths. $119, distributor Forbes & Davies 4 BERIK HIFLOW SPORTS 1pc RACE SUIT A high class Berik Race Suit at an affordable price. Berik Hiflow race suit is ergonomically design for race conditions, or when you’re just out for a ride. Laser perforated leather areas offers full ventilation to keep you cool in summer.

Neoprene cuff reduces the thickness of the cuff which allows gloves to be easily worn over the suit. Its advanced cutting at the knee offers increased flexibility and strength when riding. The suit is equipped with CE protection in the shoulders and

HOT PRODUCTS ROAD

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elbows, external pro knee sliders, special foam in the back and the outer leg, tail bone padding and safety seams. The aerodynamic hump helps reduces the amount of drag from the rear of the helmet at high speeds as well as ventilation. Bionic high endurance stretch nylon and Airflow mesh lines the inside of the suit making it breathable which adds to the riders comfort. Men’s sizes 48 to 60, ladies S to XL in Blue/White/Black. Around $1300, distributed by Darbi Accessories.

VENTURA-BIKE PACK SYSTEMS If you need to be able to carry your gear without disturbance to your riding or a hassle to yourself, fit one of these systems

5

and you will never experience either. All Ventura Bike-Pack Systems are CustomMade to fit your bike. Simple as that. The Ventura Bike-Pack System is now available for Suzuki C109R Boulevard (VLR1800) (08-09), Yamaha YZF-R125 ‘Y’ (2009), Ducati 1198, 1198S (2009) 848 (08-09), Suzuki GSX-R 600K8-K9 (08-09) GSX-R 750K8-K9 (08-09), Ducati Hypermotard 1100, 1100S (07-09), Hyosung GT250, R EFI GT650, R EFI (2010), Hyosung GT 250R, GT 650R (06-09), Hyosung GV650 Aquila (05-09), Hyosung GV250 Aquila (05-09), Kawasaki Concours 14 (ZG1400 A7F – A9F) (07-09), Ducati 1100 Multistrada (07-09) 1100S Multistrada (07-09 www.dold.co.nz Available at most dealers.

KIWI RIDER 85

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Suzuki 50 Years in New Zealand 19 6 0 ~ 2 0 1 0

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Dealers & riders of the ‘70s

REUNION March 5-7th • Wanganui All Suzuki fans welcome WEEKEND INCLUDES Pre ‘86 Classic Motorcycle Rally - all makes Dinner with Guest Speakers (limited seats) including Rod Coleman of Percy Coleman & Sons John Bullock - an Eric Cheney employee and a private Suzuki exhibition NI Classic & Twinshock Trials Champs NI Classic & Twinshock Scramble Champs @ Colemans Track ‘Kildare’

REGISTER NOW Register with Sue: Sue_c37@hotmail.com or robertc@amcom.co.nz Ph 06 343 7585 www.legendsofdirt.co.nz

Kiwi Suzuki Star and world road race champion, Hugh Anderson.

86 KIWI RIDER

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HOT PRODUCTS ROAD

1 DNA AIR FILTERS DNA filters are designed to replace stock foam filters without any modifications. The DNA high performance air filter is a high quality next generation multilayer cotton gauze oil impregnated air filter which features a very large filtering area, combined with 4 layers of high quality DNA Surgical nafta cotton and impregnated in DNA special air filter oil. The result is high air flow and extended service periods that will satisfy even the most demanding customers.

Distributed by Northern Accessories.

4

2

2 OXFORD SCREAMER ALARM LOCK Attack activated alarm lock with 100db siren, 2 keys, 7mm locking pin and pouch. Easy to operate in just 4 steps; 1.

Open up lock with key 2. Fit over brake disc 3. Push key cylinder to lock 4. Press button within 15 seconds to activate alarm. Can be locked up and stored without activating the alarm siren. $59.95 from Northern Accessories.

7

AGV K-4 HELMET K-4 stands out as the most versatile of the AGV range as it is suitable both for motorbikes and scooters. The shell is made from Fibreglass ACF (Advanced Composite Fibre) with air intakes and rear extractors.

Dry-Lex with hygienic treatment is used for inside padding which is removable and washable (excluding neckroll). Visor is clear, anti-scratch and anti-fog polycarbonate with Street 8 visor Shield Mechanism plus XQRS (Extra Quick Release System): shield replacement without tools in few seconds. Micro-metric adjustment buckle for strap. Sizes: S - XXL in Gecko White, Vyrus Green, Vyrus Red, Vyrus Blue, White, Silver Black Gloss. $449 from Nationwide Accessories.

3

4 PIPERCROSS MOTORCYCLE AIR FILTERS With Race Spec®. Unique to Pipercross, are race specification air filter foam is designed to maximise airflow and performance. Only for use on the race circuit, the race spec filter requires fuelling modifications to take advantage of the increased airflow and to prevent engine damage. From $147, distributed by Nationwide Accessories.

AIROH FORCE HELMET Constructed from light and durable thermoplastic, the Force features an integrated sun visor (eliminating the need to change from clear to tint visors), an anti-fog and anti-scratch visor, removable washable comfort liner, multiple intake venting, rear air extractors, removable breath deflector, micrometric retention system, and ECE22.05 safety rating. The Force can also be fitted with an optional bluetooth and rider to rider communication kit or MP3. The Force is available in a Black/

5

3

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6 5 Silver/Grey graphic and Matt Black in sizes XS to XL. From $505, distributor Forbes & Davies NEO BLADE BOOT Rider Apparel specialist NEO, have recently added these very cool touring boots to their range for 2010. As with their clothing line up, quality and value go hand in hand with the new Blade Boot. They come with all the good stuff including Lorica construction, Reissa waterproof membrane, reinforced shin and ankle, zipper and velcro closure, gear pad protection, and anti-slip sole. Available now where good motor boots are sold, in Euro sizes 39 to 48. $179, distributor: Forbes & Davies

6

RST RIFT TEXTILE JACKET & PANTS Nationwide Accessories are proud to introduce new clothing collection from RST. RST provides protective motorcycle clothing to road users and professional racers. Features include 600D polyester Maxtex and 1680D ballistic nylon shell; KNOX Flexiform C.e. approved armour in shoulders and elbows; front intake and rear exhaust vents, zip free comfort cuff construction; SLIK zips used throughout including 360 degree attachment zip; waterproof and breathable SINAQUA membrane and front storm flap. Jacket: sizes 38-54, $249.

Pants: 30-38, also available in short leg, $199. Distributor: Nationwide Accessories.

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KIWI RIDER 87

88 KIWI RIDER

PIRELLI ANGEL TYRES A new generation of sport touring compound: maximum safety feeling on wet / cold conditions without compromising dry grip. Innovative tread design offers mileage while maintaining an appealing tread design. Visual appearance of the tread changes in the first stage of tire life to reflect the double soul of the product.

New front and rear profile tailored to the new generation of sport touring bikes: neutral and smooth handling in all maneuvers. Price on application, distributed by Nationwide Accessories.

1

HOT PRODUCTS ROAD

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2 REPSOL ANTI-FREEZE CONCENTRATE Special formulation that protects the cooling system of the motor against the freezing in winter and overheating in summer. It prevents damage in the engine by cooling with the refrigeration liquid, as well preventing corrosion of the cooling circuit, avoiding the formation of deposits. 1Litre $26, distributed by Nationwide Accessories.

3 FORMA DIAMOND BOOT Forma’s lady touring boot, the Diamond, features a full grain leather upper, Drytex waterproof lining, shin and ankle TPU moulded plastic protections, gear pad protection, velcro and zip closure, and anti-slip rubber sole. Superb Italian style, combining protection and great comfort at a very reasonable price. Available now in Euro sizes 35-42. $309. Distributor: Forbes & Davies

1

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4 BERIK AIRFLOW LEATHER JACKET This stylish leather jacket from Berik is Laser perforated on parts of the leather fabric which offers full ventilation on hot summer days. The jacket is lined with Airflow mesh for the riders comfort .CE approved armor in the elbow and shoulder for protection and reflective fabric for extra safety Men’s sizes 50 to 60, ladies S to XL in black. $600, distributed by Darbi Accessories 5 PACSAFE LIDSAFE Sick of lugging your helmet around once you arrive at your destination?

Want to keep your expensive helmet safe from both thieves and the elements? The LidSafe Helmet Security Bag from Pacsafe features a slashproof, high-tensile stainless steel mesh construction which locks a helmet to a bike or other secure fixture. The plastic coated wire mesh is layered between a waterproof outer liner and a soft inner material to offer protection from theft, damage, and the weather. A worthwhile investment for your helmet. $79, distributor Forbes & Davies.

UGLY FISH RS5066 GLASSES Designed specifically for motorcyclists, the Ugly Fish range of eyewear offer supreme comfort and protection on and off the bike. The RS5066 feature anti-fog, anti-scratch and impact resistant lenses along with shatterproof TR90 frames allowing them to meet the AS NZ 1337-1992 Safety Standard. The RS5066 also comes with detachable inner foam padding for added eye protection – particularly good if you wear an open face lid. Available from all good bike shops, the Riderz RS5066 comes in Matt Black frame with Smoke lens or Matt Black frame with Silver lens. $79, distributor Forbes & Davies.

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6 KIWI RIDER 89

$26,995 3 Year Warranty | 2 Year Free Service Haldane Motorcycles Auckland Image Motorcycles New Plymouth Moto-Mart Lower Hutt www.mot www .motomor omorini.co.nz ini.co.nz

Distributed by Eurobike Wholesale Ltd

EMMKR013

Restar ting The Passion

Norjo Motorcycles Christchurch

90 KIWI RIDER

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84 KIWI RIDER

EGIKR009

YAMAHA 660 TENERE HERE NOW, THE NEW ERA IN ADVENTURE BIKES. 1 LEFT, RUN-OUT SPECIAL $15,495

NEW YAMAHA R1

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OFF ROAD KTM 125SX $4995 HONDA XR250 $4995 HONDA XR250 $5495 HONDA CR250F $7995 KAWASAKI KX85 $2995 KAWASAKI KX85 $3495 KAWASAKI KX85 $3495 KAWASAKI KX250 $6495 KAWASAKI KLX300 $6995 KAWASAKI KLX450 $8995 KAWASAKI KX250F $5995 SUZUKI RMZ250 $5495 SUZUKI RMZ250 $5995 YAMAHA YZ85 $3995 YAMAHA YZ250F $9495 YAMAHA YZ450 $10995 YAMAHA WR450 $10995

SCOOTER HONDA CH125 $1995 HONDA DIO $1595 PGO TREX $2395 YAMAHA NX125 $1995 YAMAHA NX125 $2995 YAMAHA YW100 $2895 YAMAHA YJ50 $1595 YAMAHA CV50 $1795 VESPA GTV250 $8995 STOCK UPDATED DAILY CHECK: www.redbaron.co.nz FOR OUR COMPLETE RANGE OF BIKES

FOR THE BEST QUALITY—MAKE SURE IT’S A RED BARON BIKE WARRANTY’S AVAILABLE ON ALL USED ROAD BIKES

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INCREDIBLE BUYING POWER HERE! Great buying this month on popular standard compound Michelin Pilot Power sets, 120(F) and 180(R), for the super low combo price of just $499 including FREE fitting and balancing or freight. Usual RRP is $657 so they’re a gift at this price!

Sports Sets from $349

SEE THE GREAT WALL OF LUGGAGE BAG YOURSELF A BARGAIN To showcase the best in motorcycle luggage systems we’ve installed the “Great Wall of Luggage” in our workshop area. See it soon to check out the latest systems from Ventura, Givi and the allnew Coocase which features a soft liner, remote locking and an inbuilt alarm.

Spend $100 or more on any product shown in our new 2010 edition Road Guide or Dirt Guide and get one of our super popular Gear Bags valued at $119 for only $40... that’s right, get a great bag and save $79.00. Now that’s a real bargain... but be quick!

Touring Sets for $399

Dirt/MX Sets from $129

YOU’LL GO GOGGLY EYED OVER THIS TROY LEE’S GEAR FOR 2010 IS HERE We want to make sure our Off-Road customers eyes stay well protected so we’re giving away a FREE pair of EMGO Goggles with every Off-Road helmet not already on sale purchased this month.

Just mention this ad to claim your pair.

Note: Conditions apply and limited to current stock of Free Goggles.

The best designs combined with top quality is why the famous helmet painters gear is used by many of the world’s fastest racers like Jeff Ward, Jeremy McGrath, and Ronnie Renner. Get in now and join the stars wearing TLD gear in 2010!

Adventure Sets for $259

THE PERFECT DUAL-SPORT CHOICE CYCLETREADS VIP’S GET BENEFIT$!

Michelin’s all terrain AC-10 road legal tyres deliver performance, versatility and durability at an unbeatable price for name brand tyres. And, since they’re approved for road use, the AC-10 is perfectly suited to dual-sport riding. Priced from only $92.50

Sign up as a Cycletreads VIP in store or online and get an Extra 10% Off our already reduced prices.

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SUPERSTORE OPEN 7 DAYS

Each year the Westpac Helicopter comes to the aid of hundreds of motorcyclists which is why we support the fundraising Helicopter Ride every year by donating spot prizes. This years ride is on Sunday 14th March and, as we’re open every Sunday, why not continue your ride to Cycletreads show your support for us too!

Barrys Poi nt

Cycletreads now owns New Zealand Motorcycle Rentals and have the largest fleet of quality bikes available for rental in the country. Contact us when you next need a bike for a weekend ride, want a more suitable bike for a trip away or while your bike is off the road for repairs.

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94 KIWI RIDER

World-class Palmerston North freestyle MXer Levi Sherwood will again represent New Zealand in the annual Red Bull X-Fighters World Tour, with Mexico City hosting the first round in April.

After a spectacular final showdown at Red Bull X-Fighters in London late last year the world’s premier freestyle motocross series returns in 2010 to see the crème-de-la-crème of the international FMX scene battle it out for the coveted title of Red Bull X-Fighters Champion.

NEW LOCATIONS Jostling for a place with old classics such as the traditional curtain raiser in Mexico City and the legendary two-day event in the Spanish capital of Madrid will be new and exciting locations for 2010.

The second event of the six-stop Tour will take place in the shadow of the Pyramids and the world famous Sphinx in Egypt where the dry heat and blazing sun will be sure to push the athletes to the limit.

The next highlight follows just weeks later, as the Red Square and the Kremlin in the Russian capital of Moscow host the event.

Following Moscow, London’s Battersea Power Station will be recharged once more to electrify the crowd and the riders, and finally, the Red Bull X-Fighters head to the Eternal City, Rome (ITA), to crown the Red Bull X-Fighters World Tour Champion.

Red Bull’s X-Fighters world tour is bigger and better in 2010.

Representing New Zealand is young gun Levi Sherwood from Palmerston North

WORDS: Staff PICS: Red Bull

NATE ADAMS Last year it was America’s Nate Adams who claimed the title in front of a sell-out crowd of 20,000 at London’s Battersea Power Station following a thrilling season full of twists and turns.

This time around Adams is back to try to defend his title and secure his place as one of the all-time greats of Red Bull X-Fighters. Among his most dangerous challengers will be multi-world record holder Robbie Maddison (AUS), who will be looking to finally secure victory in the overall standings after placing third and second, respectively, in 2008 and 2009.

In 2010, Red Bull X-Fighters is no longer an invitational. Instead of holding a ranking event, qualifying will be done according to performance and the World Tour ranking with the top six riders Nate Adams (USA), Robbie Maddison (AUS), Eigo Sato (JPN), Mat Rebeaud (SUI), Dany Torres (ESP) and Levi Sherwood (NZL) already seeded for the season opener in Mexico, based on their standings at the end of the 2009 season.

CALENDAR RED BULL X-FIGHTERS WORLD TOUR Rnd 1: April 16 Mexico Rnd 2: May 14 Egypt Rnd 3: June 26 Russia Rnd 4: July 22nd/23 Spain Rnd 5: August 14 UK Rnd 6: October 1 Italy KR

GREAT START FOR NO WAY IN HELL EVENT WORDS & PICS: Ollie S. Possibly one of the toughest extreme enduro races New Zealand has ever witnessed claimed more than its fair share of victims on Sunday January 31 at Operau. On Saturday Chris Birch claimed the winner’s position at the first round of the New Zealand Enduro Championships after a spectacular display of dominance in the searing heat and technical course layout. And the national enduro aces who raced the first round of National Enduro series certainly earned their hard-man wings by camping the night on the Scott brothers farm eager to race the inaugural No Way In Hell extreme enduro event the following day.

Mathew and Nigel Scott, the masterminds behind the event, anticipated a tough course but torrential rain on race day raised the bar to a whole new level. With 41 ironmen and 22 team riders lined up for the shotgun start it really did become a race of attrition. At the pop of the shotgun it was of little surprise that Red Bull extreme athlete Chris Birch sped off into the distance like a startled cobra never to be seen until the chequered flag.

Birchy finished the entire 53km race in little over three hours - sheer brilliance. Second, and the only other unaided rider to finish the race, some two and bit hours behind Birchy was Team Husqvarna’s Mitchell Neild with a total time of 5hrs 39mins. Thereafter third through to fifth was spread on equal time of 8hrs 11min and 02 seconds between Mark De Latour, Adrian Smith and Cam Smith. As the day bore on many riders were still battling the elements desperately trying to make it back to race headquarters within the two hour time ban that was set as a safety precaution. It was a true test of self-will and endurance for any competitor. Look out for the full ‘No Way in Hell’ feature in the April edition of Kiwi Rider.

DIRT NEWS AND BRIEFS

SHERWOOD CONFIRMED FOR RED BULL TOUR

TOWNLEY TO RACE FACTORY HONDA IN EUROPE In breaking news newly crowned NZ SX champ and former MX2 World Motocross and AMA Supercross Lites champion, Ben Townley, will line up for the first three rounds of the MX1 FIM Motocross World championship which kicks off in Bulgaria on the 3-4 of April. The 25-year-old New Zealander will race for the official factory Honda Racing MX Team in what will be his first appearance on European soil since he represented Team NZ at the Motocross of Nations in 2006 at Matterly Basin.(UK). Having been a serious threat to the 2005 MX1 World championship title where he battled MX Legend Stefan Everts and countryman Josh Coppins to win 4 GP’s, Townley is aiming high and will be a serious threat to reigning World champion, Antonio Cairoli and a strong field of international contenders. “I’m really looking forward to coming to Europe,” he said. “ It is perfect fit for me right now to get back to racing and will help me prepare for the outdoor champs in USA. I raced in Sevlievo (Bulgaria) and Valkenswaard (The Netherlands) before, so I know those tracks well

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DAKAR RALLY TO KTM RIDER DESPRES and have been on the podium in Sevlievo and twice in Valkenswaard. Fermo (Italy) will be new to everyone so I hope to continue the result there too.” Pic courtesy Goongraphix.

Spaniard Cyril Despres made it three Dakar titles with his win in the 2010 event. Second was KTM teammate, Pal Ullevalseter of Norway. First Yamaha home was that of Portugal’s Helder Rodrigues in fourth place.

KTM-supported rider French-born Cyril Despres was the top motorcycle finisher in this year’s Dakar Rally, claiming his third Dakar title after a multi-day 9000 km odyssey across Argentina and Chile on a KTM in January.

had left just went in tears. KTM played a big part in this victory. They trusted us. We chose everyone. We have been working 24/7 for months.”

Despres had the rally well and truly won on the penultimate stage, leaving his KTM support rider Rubin Faria to win the final 707 km stage.

Second place overall went to KTM rider Pal Ullevalseter of Norway, who completed his eighth Dakar rally and finally succeeded in winning his first stage.

Despres, who also won in 2005 and 2007 when the rally was staged across Africa, was one hour 02’ 52” minutes in front after completing the immense distance and endless challenging terrain, which including four stages in Chile’s Atacama Desert.

“To finish second in the standings is more than I expected. I had dreamed of it and there it is.”

VICTORY FOR HARD WORK “All victories are nice but this one is particularly beautiful,” he said afterward. “It is the victory of hard work, of expertise and of an incredible team. There are nine of us in the team and not one of us ever let go. We all wanted to win; we all wanted to fight hard and we won. It’s just fantastic. Of course there is a lot of emotion.”

Despres, whose racing career has had its setbacks, injuries and a constant battle with his arch rival, fellow KTM rider Marc Coma of Spain, said he was genuinely moved by the victory.

“I am human,” he said “I know I have been riding this bike for 15 days and I am exhausted but the little strength I

AND THEN IT RAINED New Zealand’s fickle summer weather struck again over the January 30-31 weekend with blue skies and hot temperatures for most of the country on Saturday then grey skies and rain on Sunday. The fourseason-in-one-weekend nature of the weather could hardly be better illustrated than by these two Andy McGechan pics taken at the annual Honda-backed New Zealand Motocross Grand Prix at Woodville in the Manawatu. On Saturday (top pic) it was so hot kids were frolicking in the river yet less than 24 hours later torrential rain had turned the event into a mud-fest and the river into a raging torrent. It wasn;t just the MXers who suffered either, the rain made road racing at nearby Manfeild a bit of a lottery too as KR columnist Brian Wood relates in his column this month.

KTM SECOND AS WELL

Third place went to local (Chile) rider Francisco Lopez, fourth to the first of the Yamaha riders, Helder Rodrigues of Portugal.

The result was all the more remarkable because both Despres had to ride with an air restrictor fitted to his KTM 690 to reduce the performance down to the level of a 450 cc bike, since the middle of 2010, the new standard for racing the Dakar. KR

RESULTS 2010 DAKAR RALLY Final Standings after Stage 14 1. Cyril Despres (Andorra, KTM); 2. Pal Ullevalseter (Norway, KTM); 3. Francisco Lopez (Chile, Aprilia); 4. Helder Rodrigues (Portugal, Yamaha); 5. David Fretigne (France, Yamaha).

WIND FARM OPENS FOR KTM CCA EVENT Meanwhile in another breaking news story exclusive to Kiwi Rider KTM Capital Coast Adventure Ride organizer John Forsyth informs us that he has been successful in negotiating a return to Wellington’s iconic Terewhiti Station, west of the city. Once a dirt bike playground for many locals it has been off-limits for the past three years during the construction of Meridian’s West Wind project. The 62 turbine 142MW wind farm was commissioned in late 2009 but has remained tightly locked to visitors. However after negotiation with Terawhiti management and Meridian Energy, CCA organiser John Forsyth has managed to gain access to the property for this year’s CCA. “This privileged access has been granted on a ‘one-off’ basis and security and safety will be high on the list of strict conditions. This event in no way signals any opening up of the property to the public, those ‘wild west’ days are over” said Forsyth.

“With 33km of road being developed on the project, the landscape has changed somewhat.

A lot of the old tracks we used on the 2006 CCA will now be roads but it’ll be great to see those majestic rotors up close.” Other highlights for the KTM CCA will be the Belmont Regional Park and the Akatarawa forest pylon tracks and the usual south coast trails. KTM New Zealand will be there with demo adventure bikes for you to try out in the conditions they

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DIRT NEWS AND BRIEFS

we designed for. were Get G your entries in fast f as spaces will be b limited. Look for entry forms in KRN, or check o the KTM CCA out w website at www. ca capitalcoast adventur ture.co.nz/ TADDY WINS INDOORS With the ’10 Indoor Enduro World Cup title already secured KTM Enduro Factory Team/Red Bull rider Taddy Blazusiak put the finishing touches to his dominant IEWC campaign by claiming the overall winning result at the fourth and final round of the series, the Barcelona Indoor Enduro over the January 30-31 weekend. Facing tough competition and a challenging track Blazusiak claimed two runner-up results and one race win to finish ahead of KTM team mates David Knight and Ivan Cervantes in the end of night overall classification, having not only won the championship but also having claimed the overall winning result at each of the four events.

YAMAHA RAGLAN ADVENTURE RIDE Mike Britton, of Britton Motorcycle Adventures, and his crew don’t sit on their laurels; they are always out blazing trails on their Yamaha NZ supplied WR250F and WR450F fleet bikes in search of new and exciting riding terrain. As well as the iconic Yamaha Safari that was recently held in Marlborough, and multi-day guided Yamaha Trail Rides, Yamaha Motor New Zealand are sponsoring Britton’s three, inexpensive, one and a half day, self-guided, route-sheet Adventures; the first in and around Raglan in the western Waikato over the May 1 & 2 weekend. The one and a half day adventures – at Raglan, Mohaka and a planned return of the central North Island Pureora Adventure Ride - all promise fresh terrain. Seasoned adventure rider and third generation Raglan local Alan Hall has joined Mike Britton to scout out some awesome riding in the Raglan and Waikato coastal region. As is usual for a Britton Adventure Ride the route will include a variety of terrain types; farm roads, forest trails, native bush tracks, beach riding and rugged coastal trails and it will be suitable for big and small trail and adventure bikes alike.

BOYS DAY OUT 2010 Meanwhile, if you’re looking for something to do over the March 13-14 weekend head to Hamilton’s Mystery Creek for a new event, Boys Day Out. Offered bike stunts, power tools, the Gauntlet of Pain, Tui Beer Garden and virtually every testosterone charged activity a man can shake his fists at the inaugural Boys Day Out is being touted as the ultimate showcase of all things manly. To that end Boys Day Out will be hosting a number of Extreme Sport Competition’s throughout the weekend including Extreme Rally Race, FMX, MX and Trials demos, BMX & Skateboard action and a competition to find New Zealand’s Strongest Man.

98 KIWI RIDER

KIWI IS A TOP FINISHER AT BAJA Trent Burgiss describes himself as a ‘lost Kiwi living in Canada at the moment’ who late last year satisfied a long-held desire to contest the annual Baja 1000 off-road race down Mexico’s Baja Peninsula.

The 37-year-old didn’t do too badly either, finishing 61st overall out of 350 or so starters, 25th motorcycle rider home (out of the 154 starters and 78 finishers), second solo rider (10 finishers out of 34 starters) and second in the sportsman over 250cc class.

Trent takes up the tale.

“Probably the greatest part of the experience was the sense of camaraderie. Lots of good people do this race and are willing to help a fellow racer do whatever it takes to finish. The crowds are unreal too. Even at three or four am, they are out there cheering you on as though you were the race leader.”

Trent had already done a fair bit of riding both here and around the world before he decided to give the Baja 1000 a go, having earned Silver medals at the International Six Day Enduro in Greece and at home in New Zealand and competing at the Pro/Masters level in Enduros and Hare Scrambles in western Canada.

Last year he was ranked ninth in Canada after the first half of the season but when faced with a decision to either finish the season there or take on the Baja 1000 it was the latter ‘once-in-alifetime’ opportunity that won out.

As well as the 2010 model KTM

That’s Trent Burgiss with his Ironriders award (for his solo finish) and the trophy for being second Sportsman overall home in last year’s Baja 1000. Plus of course, there is the obligatory shot of Trent with a posse of promo girls!

530XC-W he bought to race Baja Trent also owns a 2009 model KTM 250XC, a 2006 Sherco 290 Trials bike (for training) and a 2006 Honda XR650R for riding on (and off!!) the road.

In terms of getting to and from and successfully completing the event Trent says he would like to thank Aaron, Kevin, the crew at Mainjet Motorsports in Nelson BC, ‘and KTM Canada for getting me set up with my dream Baja bike.’

Next month we’re run an extended story on how Trent’s Baja 100 panned out.

In the meantime here’s a couple of pics to the man himself to wet your whistle… KR

WORDS: Staff & Trent Burgiss PICS: Trent B.

WORDS & PICS: Todd S DIRT NEWS AND BRIEFS

SCOTTY MOIR’S NEED FOR SPEED Hailing from the majestic Taupo hinterland the talented Scotty Moir is no stranger to danger. Experience gained from years spent racing national level motocross, supercross and more recently road racing have kept him busy – on and off the track Which is where this little yarn starts.

Scotty could best be described as your typical #8 wire Kiwi tinkerer. And it probably doesn’t help that after a day spent chewin’ the fat, selling motorcycles or repairing broken ones for ProMoto in Taupo you will find him burning the midnight oil building prototypes – his latest the very pukka Scotty Moir 200 Turbo (SM200T).

After recently winning two Supermoto races on a rebuilt Aprilia SVX550 against visiting world championship Italians Ivan Lazzerini and Davide Gozzini, Scotty determined his usual Supermoto stead, a CFR450R, required an affordable power boost. Which is where the idea of bolting a turbo on came from Before he whipped one up for his CRF450R however he decided he needed to experiment first. So after some heavy thought Scotty sourced a 1986 XR200 engine, a Suzuki 600cc (car) turbo, a 1996 YZ125 frame, and tin of methanol and set about bolting everything together.

BIG-BORE BASE As it turned out, boring the XR200 out to take a 218cc piston, bolting the car turbo onto the engine and linking it up with the intake was only half the battle.

To get enough methanol into the system Scotty had to hand drill the main jet out to 4 mms, leaving just enough thread to lightly tighten it into the float bowl.

In casing you’re wondering though, the

answer is ‘yes, it does work,’ KR’s intrepid Todd S. having ridden it, describing the engine as ‘an absolute screamer, with an all-new lease on life!’

“Sometimes,” he related to the rest of us in the office with accompanying (throttle cracking open/unasked for wheelie/ desperate lunge forward to stop the thing flipping) hand signals, “it’ll start off the kick starter, which if you follow the fuel/air mix path, is amazing itself, other times it needs a push.”

NEEDS TO BE REVVED HARD And Scotty? When he’s demonstrating it he simply rolls the bike down an incline, drops the clutch, and gives it a helping kick-start and the hard-breathing, boosted XR200 fires into life with a defining bark.

“The bike definitely needs to be revved hard,” he explained after a demonstration in front of an impressed Todd S. The theory, apparently, is that with the waste-gate constantly jacked wide open the bored-out XR performs best when the revs soar. According to Toddie the boost kick from the turbo is certainly there helping the SM200T produce midtwenties horsepower – though he says that kick aside the power it makes doesn’t quite compare to that of a modern 250cc 4-stroke motocross machine.

Former World Superbike Championship front-runner Aaron Slight was the special guest at the MTA’s inaugural Ride to Work Day in Wellington.

Ride attracted keen two-wheel commuters from all over the region.

theory and practice to his CRF450R! SPEAKING OF WHICH Along with Scotty’s recent Supermotard successes, he also grabbed pole position at the Cemetery Circuit and a podium finish on his CRF450R at the Taupo round of the Suzuki Tri Series.

Recently he has also tasted international success by finishing runner-up in one race at the last round of Nouméa’s Supermoto Championship.

You get the impression that it doesn’t seem to matter whether Scotty is out racing against the best of them or hanging off the spanners at his family owned and run Yamaha shop, ProMoto Yamaha.

He is constantly pushing the boundaries that limit the rest of us with our unmodified factory motorcycles. And when and if he does get to build and race a turbocharged CRF450R, man that bike – and his riding of it – is going to be something to see! KR

Burbling off the bottom rev range until you get the revs high and running hard Scotty explains; ‘sometimes the turbo boost vacuums the carb slide wide open causing the throttle to jam – but it’s nothing to worry about, you just have to blip the throttle again.’

Which sounds like something best engineered out before he applies the same KIWI RIDER 99

RACE TEST YAMAHA YZ450F

C

onventional bike design is truly on borrowed time.

Yamaha’s labour of love to t wipe clean the conventional motocross blue print and start afresh with a radical reverse train of o thought had a cataclysmic effect in the world of off-road.

Hark back a few generations and the Cannondale X440 should ignite a ffew disabled neurons. However the X440, although revolutionary for its time and similar in concept, was gruesomely flawed in engineering and never lasted more than a few years until it met its demise.

The company and its engineers were obviously onto something though, because less than a decade after the X440 was relegated to the memorabilia auditorium Yamaha has (more or less) taken up where Cannondale left off.

Thinking the new YZ450F had to be something special I took one brand new 2010 YZ450F test bike from Yamaha New Zealand and entered the notoriously rough Whakatane SummerX. The end result left me speechless.

OLD vs NEW In previous KR YZ450F articles I’ve pretty much brushed over the similarities between the old and the new YZs. For no better reason than apart from the handlebars, grips, wheels (although black now), brakes, oil filter, foot pegs and the odd forged sealed roller bearing everything else is unique. In fact Yamaha should have given the YZ450F a new name as well – it really is that exclusive.

Historically Yamaha has been criticized for a lack of agility when the track tightens, and more recently the criticism has been pointed at the company for the carburetted YZ450F being ‘down on power’ against the more ‘modern’ fuel injected competitors.

Of course raw horsepower is a matter of opinion, and although I can understand why some riders want the peak numbers, in my riding experience Yamaha’s fleet of 400s, 426s and 450s have never been exactly short on ponies.

Handling-wise, it is no myth that Yamaha set up a chassis style more suitable for long whooped out high speed straights. But that didn’t necessarily imply they couldn’t handle the tight turn-ins that other brands became famous for.

And of course this sort of talk has not exactly fazed Yamaha race teams across the world as the titles flooded in; New 102 KIWI RIDER

RACE TEST YAMAHA YZ450F

You’ve seen the pictures and marvelled at the tech spec. But is Yamaha’s radical new YZ450F really that much better than a conventional big-bore 4-stroke? KR Dirt Ed entered Yamaha Motor NZ’s test bike (he asked first!) in the BoP Club’s annual SummerX to find out.

WORDS: Ollie S. PICS: Geoff O, Andy McG & iKapture KIWI RIDER 103

RACE TEST YAMAHA YZ450F

With the shock sag configured I attacked the compression and rebound settings front and rear with a flat blade screwdriver aiming for between 12 – 15 clicks out. SummerX conditions were dry and soft so it was vital the suspension had both lots of rebound to handle the variety bumps, whilst having just enough compression to withstand the heavy landings.

In the cockpit I made some personal ergo adjustments; mounting my own set of Renthal TwinWall handlebars to the forward position with the bar clamps rotated backwards.

Meanwhile for traction in the sand I replaced the standard Dunlop intermediate/hard terrain knobbies for a set of Pirelli Scorpion 32 sand munchers.

Finally despite being a tinkering techno freak I left the standard fuel injection map untouched, regardless of my direct access to some ‘peak rev’ maps on the YZ Power Tuner.

REV-OLUTIONARY Now five pounds heavier on the scales than the 2009 model it replaced, Yamaha engineers ground through every bolt, extrusion and engine case, shaving off wasted amounts of alloy in a mad rush to beat the added weight of fuel-injection throttle bodies.

Although 2.267962 kg seems like a minimal weight increase and nothing to froth at the mouth about, producing a new

Zealand, Australia, Europe, America all more than double dipped in the fruits of success.

Having said that, and having ridden a plethora of Yamaha breeds over the last decade, and with a bible of Yamaha experience to call upon, nothing prepared me for the so unusually uncharacteristic performance nature of the twenty10 YZ450F. RACE PREP Before lining up behind the gates at SummerX it was important I set the machine’s suspension sag height for the best crack at pushing the limits.

Modern YZ 4-strokes need around 25mm of free sag with 100mm rider sag in the rear shock. Considering the standard Kayaba YZ450F suspension is setup, from factory, for the average 75kg American, I quite happily ball-parked the rear shock around 24mm of free sag to 103mm rider sag.

104 KIWI RIDER

Particularly when the engineers were focused on making a race machine ‘feel’ 10lb lighter on the track – which is where the reverse cylinder engine and complete mass centralisation come into the fold.

Almost if some sort of wizardly magic has occurred the YZ450F for 2010 feels like you’re racing something with the inertia and dynamics more aligned with a 250cc 4-stroke.

Your ability to completely manipulate the bike in almost every instance on the track is no longer limited to timing and good luck. Whether you’re hard on the throttle or floating through the air, the YZ450F is so nimble it will startle even the most cynical anti-Yamaha campaigner.

Not only does the bike now feel substantially more agile in attack mode, it will also turn inside an old car tire lying track side if given half a chance.

Gaining momentum on its ability to turn is the Yamaha’s new powerful asset; point and shoot acceleration.

After having successfully railed the steel carcass off that old track tyre, the YZ450F’s massive surge of power around the 4000rpm range onwards absolutely lets rip and fires you and the bike through and out of every corner you nail.

Whether racing the new YZ450F at SummerX with some personal ergo adjustments or racing it without any at a local club day, I can happily confirm that riding it is the most comfortable I have been on a standard bike.

Additionally, starting the Yamaha is a new experience as it will take some e practice to get right, in order to get her fired first kick during a race situation – patience is required when cold, but usually three kicks ought to do it.

RACE TEST YAMAHA YZ450F

‘heavier’ motocross machine was the last thing Yamaha had in mind.

You may also want to consider adding some fly wheel weight to lessen the impact of the power rush h especially if you intend to ride ginger trails or simply purchase the YZ Power Tuner to cleanly remap the power delivery; it will be the only aftermarket performance purchase you will need.

BLUE-PRINTED From the front axle to the rear, every component of the YZ has been meticulously engineered. It is inconceivable that the YZ450F will suffer post production mechanical failures; the YZ450F comes from a long line of racing pedigree development 4-strokes.

As for the racing at SummerX my results only reflected the comfort level I achieved with the machine. A seventh overall for the weekend on a stocker motocross weapon is something to be proud of, and believe me, one ride on the new YZ450F will not be enough to adequately get your head around the efficiently unique dynamics.

The twenty10 YZ450F really is the cream of the crop and makes everything else in MX seem old school. It’s acquired mixed reactions and reports from media sources worldwide, but if my two cents are worth anything, it’s a bloody marvellous thing to experience.

It does everything superbly, covering the complete spectrum from technical race craft to flat out high speed assault, and the ergonomics for a tallish rider are sublime.

PECULIAR WAYS It seems the YZ450F could well have an aura surrounding its fancy-pants engineering, but it’s not without its peculiarities.

It’s annoying – for instance – to have to remove six bolts and a flap to change an air filter, though if you didn’t know any better you perhaps wouldn’t think that that’s a problem.

What better way to test a dedicated MX machine than in competition? Having first sampled the new YZ450F at the Australasian launch late last year KR Dirt Ed and chief tester Ollie S. reckoned there was no use riding it around a test track again – so he entered Yamaha Motor NZ’s press bike!!! in the annual SummerX MX meeting at Awakaponga in the Bay of Plenty.

KIWI RIDER 105

RACE TEST YAMAHA YZ450F

SPECIFICATIONS YAMAHA YZ450F ENGINE Type: Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valve reverse mounted single cylinder Displacement: 449.7cc Compression ratio: 12.5:1 Bore x stroke: 97.0mm x 60.8mm Starting system: Kick Engine management: TCI (digital) Fuel system: Fuel Injection Clutch: Multiplate wet clutch Transmission: Constant mesh 5-speed Final drive: Chain FRAME Type: Bilateral beam frame Swingarm: Aluminum Front suspension: Telescopic fork Rear suspension: Link suspension Brakes: Single disc 250mm front, Single disc 245mm rear Tyres: Dunlop 80/100-21 front, Dunlop 110/90-19 rear DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 1487mm LxWxH: 2194 x 825 x 1311mm Seat height: 998mm Ground Clearance: 383mm Curb weight: 111.5kgs Fuel tank capacity: 6ltrs Oil capacity: 1.2ltr RRP: $13,499 YZ Power Tuner: RRP$485.82 Test bike: Yamaha New Zealand GEAR Helmet: Airoh Stelt Senior King Goggles: Ariete Palladium Shirt, pants and gloves: AXO Sport Neck Brace: BMW Motorrad GPX Sport Boots: Sidi Crossfire SRS All change. Bar a few ancillaries Yamaha’s 2010 YZ450F is all-new – and according to dirt tester Ollie S. the better for it. Basic architecture of engine is biggest individual change, Yamaha using the move from a carbie to fuel injection to turn conventional exhaust front/intake at the rear design on its head. Airbox and throttle body are now mounted high above the barrel and – now – four rather than five – valve cylinder head with the exhaust snaking out of a single big-bore port at the back.

Combined with new slim line frame the result is a bike which combines the awesome power of a large capacity 4-stroke with the nimble, responsive feel of a 250F.

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WORDS: Bill Mancer PICS: Geoff Osborne DIRT TEST KTM 450EXC

Rather than keep it to ourselves (read Ollie! Ed) we decided to spread the love with our latest Long Termer, a roadregistered KTM 450EXC. Old skooler Bill Mancer and young pup Mitchell Nield were the first two ‘friends of the magazine’ to get to ride it and give us their initial impressions.

KIWI RIDER 109

DIRT TEST KTM 450EXC

H

aving previously owned three generations of KTM 450EXCs over the years I was keen as mustard to swing a leg over the Austrian company’s latest and most updated bog-snorkelling 4-stroker.

Brief guest rides on personalised 450EXCs belonging to friends provided me with realistic first impressions, so it was going to be fascinating testing the standard orange beast over varying levels of terrain.

The old racing four-stroke engine (RFS) was a pretty good source of horse power in its day, but the new version bolted in the 2010 KTM 450EXC is better in every way conceivable.

For a start it runs much quieter with a very healthy bottom end, mid range and top end punch. The fi rst day’s riding and testing was at the Dome Valley Park which includes some fairly steep ascents over greasy Northland clay.

The traction it generates climbs anything you roll over whilst its silky midrange runs cleanly into a wailing top end that the old RFS engine could only ever hope to achieve. Meaning that the engine will chug away happily even if you find your’e in a gear too tall for the conditions much like a labouring high horsepower tractor.

WHITE POWER KTM’s WP forks have evolved over the last few years and it’s great to see that this year they are some of the best yet. My 2008 KTM 450EXC forks were harsh and spiky but the 2010 forks are way ahead of them despite

RACE-READY

By Mitchell Neild When you first roll the big Kato off the trailer, you notice that it’s dripping with high quality features, like sexy black Excel rims, Brembo brakes with wave discs, tapered bars with adjustable clamps; the list just keeps on going. It’s a very tidy package with no ugly bits hanging off to snag on your boots or pants while riding.

When I first powered off down the track it felt a tad on the heavy side and weighing in at 113.9 kg (claimed weight with no fuel) it is not the lightest enduro 450 on the block, but it may well produce the most horsepower. The KTM 450EXC has been bred from a long line of World Enduro Championship-winning machines and although there are some minor updates, KTM have kept the same winning formula. The most notable update being revised frame geometry to improve turn in handling.

THE ENGINE ROOM At the heart of the orange 450 is a SHOC 4 valve engine with a bore x stroke of 95 x 63.4 mm giving a displacement of 449.3cc. Despite most brands leaning towards the newer technology of fuel injection, KTM has stuck to their principals and refined the FCR carburettor’s jetting specs, resulting in a responsive crisp package which is hard to fault.

Right off the bottom it builds monumental power, and with no flat spots or hesitation it rolls right into one of the

110 KIWI RIDER

the spring rates being too soft for my weight.

At the same time the WP PDS shock continues to do a great job for off-road riding. Speaking of which, I for one certainly hope the linkage fitted to the new KTM 350cc 4-stroke motocross bike doesn’t make it into the EXC line as the present PDS system is very low maintenance, easy to work on and performs magnificently in all manner of bush riding.

The current chromoly steel frame has been in production since the release of the 2008 KTM 450EXC and has only received some minor modifications for the 2010 model.

Welding the frame tubes 10mm lower on the steering stem has kicked the old nose down attitude with head shaking tendencies into the past and is replaced with a chassis balance

punchiest mid ranges of all the enduro 450s. It just never seems to run out of power and keeps pulling all the way to the rev limiter.

What this means is that in the bush, with a flick of the hydraulic clutch and a crack of the throttle, the 450EXC will jump any log, drain or obstacle that gets in the way. Starting is a breeze with the big girl firing into life the moment you hit the button; and with a kick start for backup it means you never have to fear that terrible clicking sound of a flat battery.

The gearbox has a good spread of ratios, and with six gears to choose from there is something for all occasions. First is perfect for those tight tricky bush sections, then it’s all the way through to top gear which is well suited to carving those gravel back roads of good old N.Z. To give you an idea, at the final round of the Northern Experience X-country series, I managed to get to a 149km/h top speed down the air strip section before running out of space!

SUSPENSION & ERGOS When you first hop on the Kato it does not feel the smallest; with a seat height of 985mm it is quite tall between your legs.

The cockpit layout is top notch; it has a lot

DIRT TEST KTM 450EXC

Roots can be crossed at angles without any fear of deflection and little feedback to the rider making it apparent the new valve specs and new fork tube suppliers have made all the difference.

which feels very safe and turns with the best of them; to the point where sixth gear firebreak handlebarslapping (know it well! Ed) is a thing of the past.

With engine power increased and traction at a maximum, it’s nice to know that the newly modified Katoom frame is well balanced for tight steering in the thick Radiata Pines and for front end control when attacking steep ascents.

ITALIAN STOPPIES With KTMs renowned for quality componentry in the braking department, it comes as little surprise that the Brembo braking package bolted onto the 2010 EXC does such an efficient job.

The Brembo front is considered the best in the business and the latest package is no exception with one finger power and plenty of feel.

However, for some reason, the Brembo rear is now super touchy, lacking modulation and is easy to lock up. Don’t worry though, I have found an easy fix – simply replace the stock

of room for adjustment with rotatable bar clamps that have four different positions.

When testing the 450EXC I ran the clamps rotated forward in the rear position. That handlebar position gave me ample room between footpegs to handlebar, yet still allowed me to get over the front when cornering aggressively. I found the seat firm and flat through the tank area which allows easy movement when riding.

The suspenders, however, I had mixed feelings about.

When I first picked it up it was far too soft; after playing with the clickers I managed to set it up to be a bit better balanced. For the rear shock I dialled on both the high and low speed compression clickers and slowed down the rebound, making it very stable and stopping the rear end from kicking out on roots and sharp bumps.

The front end received a similar treatment with more compression dampening to hold it higher under braking although it still had the tendency to bottom out in high speed g-outs and hard landings.

I think that a slightly heavier oil and a few tweaks to the shim stack would cure this and still retain the lovely plush feeling

Latest KR Long Termer is this 2010 model year KTM 450EXC, a road-legal large capacity 4-stroke dirt bike as much at home as a clubman’s all-rounder as it is a cross-country race bike.

it has in low speed bush sections. Additionally I slid the forks through the clamps 10mm to help get it to turn in through the corners and stop the front end from pushing out.

OVERVIEW After a good number of hours of testing and one 2 hour X-country in the far north, the orange 450 was still in one piece and looking like new. The inlaid graphics handled the punishment from the bush and the knee braces and were still shining as if new. The only thing to come loose was the rear tail light extender and with a quick tightening of the bolts it was fixed and nothing to get emotional about.

In my opinion the most outstanding attribute of the KTM 450EXC is the engine.

With huge amounts of torque down low and a grunty mid range it is so much fun to ride, despite the forks being a tad soft for me at race pace.

If you are an average rider, less than 80kg, who wanted a seriously gutsy 450 enduro bike, which you could ride to the event, race and ride home again, the KTM should be at the top of your shopping list.

With high quality components and a tidy finish the KTM 450 EXC is a very nice piece of kit.

KIWI RIDER 111

DIRT TEST KTM 450EXC

pads when they are worn with cheap pads to give the rear caliper some feel and progression.

EVER DURABLE Often overlooked when purchasing a new bike is what the machine is like to work on. For the initiated, constantly lubing and cleaning is the only way to guarantee a mechanically sound machine.

On this point KTMs are a mechanic’s dream with a thirty second shock removal, high quality steel and aluminium that lasts, top quality bars, hydraulic clutch and a clutch basket that doesn’t notch out after three months.

Not to forget the captive wheel spacers that don’t roll across the floor when you take the wheels out, nickelplated axles that don’t rust to the bearings, tool-less air filter change and standardised fasteners; KTMs are made to last and are so easy to work on.

This particular bike started life as a road registered trail machine for the Far North Adventure Ride, then went on to win the last round of the Track ‘n’ Trail cross country series in the hands of Mitchell Neild.

I then took possession for three weeks solid trail riding, which makes the KTM 450EXC one hell of a versatile machine in my opinion. After hours in the saddle the only area I can fault is the 450’s agility in the tight, slowgoing trail where 2-strokes and 250cc 4-strokes naturally shine.

Nevertheless it is a 450cc 4-stroke and if you’re the type of rider who loves to dip your toes in all sorts of offroad missions then this is the perfect machine for you. KR

Serious riders love KTMs for their ‘the-guys-who-built-this-bike-really-knowwhat-they-are-talking-about’ look and feel. Basics are nothing out of the ordinary with carburetted SOHC engine, tubular chrome-moly frame and linkageless rear suspension system, but quality brake and suspension componentry is without peer.

112 KIWI RIDER

SPECIFICATIONS 2010 KTM 450EXC ENGINE Type: Liquid-cooled single cylinder 4-stroke Displacement: 449.3cc Compression ratio: 11.9:1 Bore x stroke: 95 x 63.4 Starting system: Kick and electric Engine management system: Kokusan digital Fuel system: 41mm Keihin FCR MX Clutch: Wet plate multi disc Transmission: 6 speed Final drive: 13/52 (Road 15:45) FRAME Type: Central double-cradle-type 25CrMo4 steel Swing-arm: Aluminium 7020 Front suspension: WP USD 48mm Rear suspension: WP PDS Brakes: Disc brakes 260mm Front/220mm Rear Wheels: Aluminium rim/wire spoke 21 inch front & 18 inch rear Tyres: 90/90-21” Front & 140/80-18” Rear DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 1475mm Ground clearance: 380mm Seat height: 985mm Kerb Weight: 121kg Fuel tank capacity: 9.5 litres RRP: $14,699 Test bike: Chris Birch (KTM NZ) GEAR Helmet: Airoh Stelt Senior King Goggles: Ariete Palladium Shirt, pants and gloves: AXO Sport Neck brace: BMW Motorrad GPX Sport Boots: Sidi Crossfire SRS

GET READY

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KIWI RIDER 113

KTM ACCESSORIES

WORDS: Ollie S. PIC: Geoff O and Ollie

When Leatt Brace first established their dominance in the neck protection market around the world, and in particular New Zealand, I jumped right in and purchased my own neck protection system. You can never predict with 100% accuracy what’s going to happen when you are racing off-road so wearing every piece of limb protection available is super important to me. More to the point on a recent photo shoot mission I narrowly avoided monumental damage to my neck by wearing my Leatt brace.

Leatt really do have an outstanding product. Being completely customisable it can be rebuilt, painted and made to fit anyone for any motorcycling application.

Even more attractive is the stunningly new pad and decal kits which are about to land on New Zealand shores.

GRAPHIC KIT ORANGE CHROM-BLACK KTM is proud to cintroduce the”B crome” printing process produced by Blackbird exclusive for KTM. It is a new printing technology, so far never used in the motorcycle field, “B crome” is absolutely new. These new KTM graphic kits combine the “B crome” technology with the “crystal” material. So they very durable and extraordinarily bright (like a coloured mirror) so far impossible for an off road bike. Fits all dirt bikes (EXC/SX) from 2008 to 2010 (excludes minis and 690 enduro). $329.

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I have always vowed to never race without one, now after a close shave it’s a no brainer and should be for you also. For more information head over to www. leatt.co.nz.

The mechanics of the crash were simple; whilst scrubbing a jump the bike hooked up and shot out from underneath my legs leaving me to flap in the air like a baby Thrush on its maiden flight.

FRONT BRAKE DISC GUARD The most innovative brake disc guard available on the market. The unique fitting system with one central adapter removes the axle spacer. This allows wheel change without removing the disc guard. $123.

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When I descended back to earth my head smashed directly into the backside of a braking bump with the full force of my body behind it and a good 40 km/h of air-speed. The force cracked the helmet and compressed it onto my Leatt brace which compressed the Leatt over my shoulders.

REAR BRAKE RESERVOIR EXTENDER This item adds capacity to your rear brake reservoir. The cooling fins help dissipate heat and help you avoid brake fade. If aftermarket exhaust systems are used it is possible that you cannot mount the extender. $53.

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The carbon support structure within my Leatt Moto GPX Sport snapped under the force of the impact, doing a magnificent job of saving my neck (literally! Ed).

Long story, short, the brace did its job and in light of my story, Paris Youroukelis, the managing director of Leatt Corporation New Zealand, replaced the snapped carbon parts of my Leatt Moto GPX Sport and even threw in a new pad and sticker kit.

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Ollie’s repaired, re-padded and restickered Leatt neck brace.

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AKRAPOVIC STICKER KIT m For all KTM dirt bikes (EXC/SX) from 2008 to 2010 (excludes minis and 690 enduro). $329.

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HOT PRODUCTS DIRT

LEATT NECK BRACE REPAIR & MAINTENANCE

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SOFT TIE DOWNS WITH CLIPS

Our KTM Tie-Downs feature built-in soft tie loops that allow you to secure your KTM without scratching your handlebars. These extra wide webbing units feature a clip hook on one end, plus high quality friction lock fasteners.

KTM Orange/black with distinctive KTM Racing markings. $110. Soft tie downs with hooks are also available.

These tie-down straps have soft ties built in, so you don’t scratch your bars.

KTM orange/black with distinctive KTM Racing markings. $103 SOFT TIES These tough KTM soft ties allow you to strap down your bike without scratching your handlebars or tank.

Built from a durable ballistic nylon, they have a 615 LB weight capacity. Dimensions: 1.5” x 6’. $31.

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PIRELLI SCORPION TRAIL Distributor: Nationwide Accessories

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Been on the hunt for some top performing off-road socks lately? Found that every pair you buy seems to disintegrate around the heel or they’re just not long enough to ward off knee brace chafe?

Well Norma from StormMasters recently sent up a pair of Merino Padded and Merino Light extra-long thigh-high socks to wrap around my skinny white legs and they don’t disappoint. Made from a very durable blend of 80% Merino wool/20% Nylon yarn to keep you warm in winter and cool in summer, the also have Elastane woven through specific areas of the sock to keep it firmly on the leg and provide added support.

of wicking away sweat from the skin whilst protecting it from chafe.

The extra long length is also very handy to fold back over your knee braces or guards. During extreme enduro or motocross racing I couldn’t fault the performance of the socks and they didn’t show any sign of fraying in the ankle area.

Head over to www.stormmasters.co.nz for more information. Sizing is colour coded 2-5 (blue) 6-9 (red) 10-12 (grey) 13+ (green) with an online special of two pairs for $65 (padded) or $50 (light) with free delivery in NZ.

The Merino Padded sock differs from the Merino Light as it has cushioned foot, arch and ankle support, and is padded up the back of the leg. It’s perfect for boots that need that extra bit of cushioning or if your legs needed some padding behind the braces.

The Merino Light sock is a lightweight variant featuring the same cut and length without the added padding. It’s the perfect partner for closer fitting boots that don’t require extra padding.

This new revolutionary tread pattern combines high performance with a very innovative look. With its patented 0° steel belt technology on radial sizes will provides maximum stability and excellent handling on every kind of terrain even when fully loaded. Its latest generation of materials in new compound, provides maximum grip in all weather conditions, creating the ideal balance between milage and grip.

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HOT PRODUCTS DIRT

STORMMASTER SOCKS

WORDS: Ollie S. PIC: Todd. S

MOTORBIKE WIDOW T-SHIRTS

Monica Birch, wife of international extreme enduro rider Chris Birch, has created a range of ‘Motorbike Widow’ t shirts! She says ‘I often take the piss out of Chris at races to keep him motivated (as well as keeping myself entertained!). There are so many designs out there for ‘riding’ women, but I am quite happy to just hang out it in the pits, so we came up with a few designs, and now all the ‘motorbike widows’ can have them!’

Currently available in three designs, they are printed on quality charcoal t shirts – not white, so they can take a bit of dirt, and not black, which is far too hot. Visit www.birchy. co.nz for more information. $50 each.

TSUBAKI MX PRO Distributor: Nationwide Accessories

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Both are super comfortable and are pre-washed and pre-shrunk so there is zero chance of shrinkage after the first ride. Performance-wise the Merino wool blend does an absolute magic job

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This high quality NON O-ring chain has been manufactured for professional motorcycle mainly motocross /off road applications.

The MX Pro features eliminated kinking and seizure in abrasive and muddy conditions through special treated pins and projected - shouldered bushings. Critical components are heat-treated and shot peened for greater durability. The MX Pro distinguishes itself by its gold coloured link plates. Prices range from $79 to $142.

Z-CARBON FRONT DISC GUARD Distributor: Northern Accessories

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Protect your front brake disc from deep ruts, rocks and brush during your ride. Prevents mud and dirt from getting on the disc, so your brakes function properly in a muddy race. Slim and lightweight design will not affect the handling of the bike. Disc guard and bracket sold separately to allow a larger range of combinations. Note that specific mount kit is required to install the disc guards on your bike see application guide at www. dirtguide.co.nz

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Sick and tired of searing my fingers, lacerating my palms and ripping finger nails off I had pretty much given up on trying to re-sharpen worn out off-road tyres.

dense gauge foam grip for insulation.

The heating element is seriously large and the knife cuts through rubber like butter with minimal pressure with the blade itself made from hardened steel.

However a glimmer of hope came in the form of this amazing tool called a Knobby Knife. Made in Tennessee USA this ingenious little device immediately changed my life. With my KLX450 waiting on its stand in the garage, alongside half a dozen old tyres I plugged my new Knobby Knife tool in, waited about seven minutes for it to heat up, then made my first cut.

I have sharpened my favourite off-road practice knobbies three times now allowing more time out riding the trails.

If you don’t have one of these tools, and you get annoyed with how quickly a new tyre looses its edge rendering it useless for racing but perfect for practice then get yourself a Knobby Knife.

It took a few minutes to master my technique, but having gauged how hard to push, and when to curl at the end of your cut, everything fell into place and my first tire was done in 25 minutes.

VHOLDR ON BIKE CAMERA. Distributor: Northern Accessories ContourHD is the world’s first High Definition Wearable Camcorder to shoot and share HD video. It has four HD settings (1080p, 960p, and two at 720p) with two frame rates (30fps and 60fps) and four configurable settings (metering, contrast, exposure, and microphone gain). With its all-in-one design ContourHD records hours of HD video to its own removable, internal memory card. Powered by a rechargeable battery you’ll get up to 4 hours HD video. A single on/off button makes VholdR simple to use, even with gloved hands. The included Easy Edit™ software makes it simple to import your videos from the camera and edit them. Two models are available: ContourHD $499.ContourHD/1080 $599.

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2 SHOT VORTEK HELMETS $279 Distributor: Nationwide Accessories One-piece moto-cross helmet with MRFS multi-reinforced fiber shell; shock-absorber chin bar insert; double-D retention system; ECE 2205 certified, interior lining fully removable, washable and hypoallergenic; vented adjustable peak; rock deflector; chin vents and rear exhaust vents; rubber

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Available to all Kiwi Rider magazine readers for a special price of $129.95.

Contact Customlight Engineering 0-3341 7175 or www.customlight.co.nz for ordering and more info.

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As I chewed out the tyres my knife cutting skills technique sharpened into a 20 knobby slaughter-fest and by the end of the pile I managed a blistering 15 minutes. It sure does beat heating up hacksaws, or Stanley knifes and is a hell-of-a-lot safer.

The Knobby Knife is built tough with a heavy wooden handle covered in a

HOT PRODUCTS DIRT

KNOBBY KNIFE

WORDS: Jonathan Hayward PIC: Knobby Knife

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The Knobby Knife…like a hot knife through butter!

goggle retainer pads and aluminum peak screw. Matt or gloss varnish finish, varies by model. Weighs 1250 grams +/- 50gr.

Sizes: XS/54-XXL/64 in Blue, Black, Gold..

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KAWASAKI RIDING GLASSES

Light and comfortable with a flexible nylon frame designed for all day comfort even under a helmet with six layer polycarbonate, interchangeable anti-reflection lenses. Comes with clear, smoked and driving lens’ that will iImprove contrast and reduce glare and are shatter and scratch resistant. Green $114, black $105. Available from your nearest Kawasaki dealer.

YOSHIMURA RMZ450 20082010 RS4 EXHAUST

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As the official exhaust of the Rockstar Makita Suzuki Yoshimura Supercross/Motocross team, this exhaust was designed with one thing in mind, winning races. The RS-4 is a unique design with predicated power, a side benefit of a quiet earthy exhaust note that speaks volumes for performance. It was an obvious choice for the RM-Z450. This full system comes with a stainless steel header and mid-pipe, aluminium muffler sleeve, installation hard-

ware, and detailed instructions.Stainless systems come with a 96db sound insert/ USFS approved spark arrestor installed in the muffler. Optional 94db and 99db sound inserts available separately.Stainless/Alloy Slip On $449 AUD Stainless/Alloy Full System $699 AUD. Free freight to N.Z. on all orders over $200 AUD. Available through www.bgw.com.au BEL-RAY THUMPER 4-STROKE RACING MOTOR OIL $30/1L. $70/4L Distributor: Northern Accessories

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A premium multi-grade synthetic blend motor oil for the large displacement, single cylinder, 4-stroke motorcycles that are burning up Motocross and Supermotard tracks around the globe. Bel-Ray Thumper Racing Oil is designed for the most punishing conditions, it features reduced high temperature oil consumption, protection against high-temperature viscosity breakdown and high shear and fuel dilution.

Exclusive Bel-Ray anti-wear additives for extended engine life. SAE 20W-50 for use in engine or engine/gearbox systems found in single cylinder multi-valve 4-stroke racing engines, suitable for air-cooled and liquid-cooled engines KIWI RIDER 119

ADVENTURE YAMAHA SAFARI

With hundreds of kilometres of fresh roads, tracks and trails the Marlborough Sounds made this year’s Yamaha Safari one of the best. Racing Dave explains why.

WORDS & PICS: Racing Dave 120 KIWI RIDER

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he 2010 Yamaha Marlborough Sounds Adventure Ride is the latest in the annual three-day selfguided rides hosted by Britton Motorcycle Adventures. Mike Britton and Angela Bruce have been organising these events for years (have a look at www.adventurerides.co.nz), and this one was based in Blenheim.

Yamaha is Mike’s sponsor, and I was riding the XT660Z Tenere I’ve had on long-term test. Fitted with extras, my bike had a centre stand, bigger foot pegs, handlebar risers, engine bars and bash plate, and hand and lever guards. Marlborough is traditionally hot and dry in the summer, but knobbies are essential, and my Tenere’s wheels boasted Michelin T63s with HD tubes. Rocks abound.

DAY 1 Day 1 began with a short road tour before we dived into a farm option and headed into the hills. This was on a rugged twintrack, but having been given a warning on the route sheet that it wasn’t for big bikes or two-ups (and the warning was of course roundly ignored), to no one’s surprise it wasn’t long before the sound of engine radiator cooling fans, scrabbling rear tyres, and the odd muffled curse rent the air. And of course what you don’t need when desperately trying to maintain momentum around a blind bend on a steep climb is to find a rutted rock-strewn off-camber disaster area littered with bikes in various states of distress.

Hill starting after a balking is fraught with risk, but with a team effort the climb

ADVENTURE YAMAHA SAFARI

SOUNDS HOSTS STUNNING was conquered and what had been a chilly start had everyone removing layers of clothing, changing road gloves for motocross ones, and getting stuck into their drink bladders.

A GOOD PLAN…

large tree had been felled over the track to keep 4WDs out, so rather than making a huge effort to remove and then replace it after the Safari, two pallets were fashioned into ramps, and it was a simple matter to carefully traverse an otherwise impossible object.

The three days were organised in descending order of difficulty, so as riders became tired and bikes wore their tyres, the effort needed to ride the course would only diminish. The Marlborough Sounds have a lot of clay, and it is usually very stony, so traction in the middle of the summer is normally assured. Well, that was the plan – what happens if it rains…?

Next, a long single track through bush was a perfect adventure trail for any type of bike. Narrow and overgrown it might have been, but it was rock-free and it meandered gently as we followed the hill’s contours. Another felled tree blocked this track, but there was just room around it for bikes to pass.

Climbing higher into a pine forest, we found that the course plotters had improvised a unique solution to a roadblock. A

ALL SORTS Because events like the Yamaha Safari attract all manner of riders on all types of

bikes, one course doesn’t suit everyone.

There were riders on 250 trail/commuters and couples two-up on the likes of BMW’s R100GS and Yamaha’s TDM900.

The main route was of average difficulty, but added challenges in the form of trail options tested the mettle of the riders of lighter enduro-type bikes.

The next optional trail, which although relatively short, had some very steep and loose-rocked climbs, often with no run up, due to water courses at the foot of each uphill.

Knowing that on a big(-ish) bike in these circumstances momentum is your friend, the lack of accelerating room was partially ameliorated by my XT having that fabulously punchy and near stall-proof engine that loves to blast up nearly any hill KIWI RIDER 121

ADVENTURE YAMAHA SAFARI

Left: Success on the trail option on day 1. Below: Dave B at Lake Pinot, irrigation for 400 hectares of grapes and crossing the palleted log.

pleted the first day.

DAY 2 Day 2 was a complete contrast. This time we were inland and south of Blenheim, so the tracks were often smoother, and some even had grass on them. Admittedly, the grass was brown and slippery after a dry spring, so the difficulties still existed, and hills aplenty were presented to our wheels.

First, though, as a rare treat, we were directed through New Zealand’s biggest vineyard, where one paddock grows 400 hectares of grapes. An artificial lake stores water, the lifeblood of the industry, for irrigation.

NOTHING’S A PROBLEM The property owners in the Awatere re-

in second gear. By the time I’d crested the final peak and skittered my way back to the main road, it was clear that the day would be a series of energy sapping bursts mixed with easier, but still good fun, more touring oriented trails.

A LONG AND WINDING ROAD A long and winding road follows the spine of the hills above the westernmost sound, first on seal and then on lovely smooth and skiddy shingle, to practically as far north as you can ride.

This bush-clad road gives way to tussocked farmland before French Pass is reached, which also was our lunch venue. The narrow channel here between the mainland and D’Urville Island is a dangerous piece of water and at maximum tidal flow a two-metre standing wave forms, which has caught out many a boatie.

A wee hitch (they’d got the date of the Safari wrong) with the catering wasn’t an issue, as the field assembled in the warm sunshine, and riders exchanged tales of challenges met, hills conquered, or sometimes mishaps explained.

A QUICK SWAP In the afternoon, the final challenge was described as “seriously rough.” Twelve years ago, I’d had the misery of struggling through this track on my TransAlp, and I knew it had deteriorated since then. Muggins I’m not, so I temporarily swapped the Tenere for a WR250R, which made light work of the ruts, rocks, and steep pitches. After a last trail option on single track through another forest to a microwave transmitter site above Havelock, we’d com122 KIWI RIDER

MT RUAPEHU TRAIL RIDE MARCH 13-16 2010 (NOTE NEW DATE)

THIS MULTI DAY TRAIL RIDE IS FOR EXPERIENCED RIDERS ONLY

RIDE FEATURES & INCLUSIONS

Our Adventure-Trail Rides have set the standard for awesome riding and good times. For 2010 we have put together this new multi day trail ride, with loads of new terrain and including the best of the incredible riding the Central North Island has on offer. This is a ride of contrasts from plantation forests, volcanic mountain trails, stunning lakeside tracks and lush green farm properties – you name it, we have included it. This is a new and exciting trail riding experience not to be missed.

• • • • • • • •

4 x full days of Trail Riding Open country, 4x4 tracks, streams and bush - minimal road riding.

Lake and mountain views.

No hassles, we look after everything, just turn up and ride Lodge accommodation with all meals and pre-tour accommodation.

All fuel (95 octane) supplied Experienced & friendly crew Satellite phone & GPS

For more info or an entry form: Britton Motorcycle Adventures ph 07 855 6132, 021 2849047 2849047,, mike@adventurerides.co.nz or www.adventurerides.co.nz

KIWI RIDER 123

MOHAKA ADVENTURE RIDE APRIL 10-11 2010 (NOTE NEW DATE)

The Mohaka Adventure Ride is based from Mountain Valley Adventure Lodge, beside the mighty Mohaka River. The route encompasses many of the valleys and rugged hills of the stations that straddle State Highway 5 (the NapierTaupo Highway). The variety of terrain includes private farm stations, pine forests, native bush and back-country roads.

Trails on this event can be steep and challenging at times. You will need good riding skills, a reasonable level of ďŹ tness and a road legal trail or enduro

motorbike. Not suitable for big dual purpose bikes or pillion passengers PRICE: Cabin $345 (bedding supplied).

Bunkhouse $305 (own bedding required) Camping $275.

Includes: Route sheets, Sat & Sun breakfasts, Sat & Sun lunches, Sat dinner, land access fees, sweep crew, accommodation as above.

For more info or an entry form: Britton Motorcycle Adventures ph 07 855 6132, 021 2849047, 2849047, mike@adventurerides.co.nz or www.adventurerides.co.nz

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124 KIWI RIDER

Right: The climb to Mt Misery. Below: Waima river, limestone boulders.

ADVENTURE YAMAHA SAFARI

gion had proved to be very approachable when asked to allow the 80 motorcycles through their land, and this co-operation extended to some agreeing to have their boundary fences cut, to avoid the need for backtracking or riding on the road.

Most had agreed to donate the land access payments to charity, another muchappreciated gesture of community spirit.

The morning’s only trail option was easier than the previous day’s ones, and providing that momentum was maintained, the climb’s summit was an achievable and exhilarating zoom over a saddle.

The highlight of the day was on the property where we had a woolshed lunch, and consisted of a 20 km traverse on a bare track, bulldozed out of what looked like shattered rock. This track was made more exciting by the gale-force nor’west wind, which tried its best to topple the unwary from their bikes in the various saddles.

Sometimes it succeeded.

A HIGH POINT! Mt Misery, on the Blue Mountain Range, at 1100 metres was the high point, before the zigzag run down to the Waima River, which has dazzling white limestone rocks in its bed. The return over the same track was again fraught with risk, but the views made such anxiety well worthwhile.

Many kilometers of rolling grassy farm tracks in the afternoon should have been a pleasure, but skyward glances confirmed the accuracy of the weather forecast, and by mid-afternoon the rain had arrived, reducing the already low coefficient of friction to that of dry grass.

That wasn’t going to stop me from riding the last option of the day, which was a fairly technical and mostly single track over Blairich Pass and then down Orchard Spur practically into Blenheim’s southern suburbs, a lovely way to finish the day.

Well, it would have been, apart from a slight error of judgment on my part.

DOWN…..BUT NOT OUT Barely five minutes from the end, I made the mistake of following a better man on better tyres off the course, as he slithered down a greasy slope. With the rain, a film of frictionless mud coated the bare surface, and the corollary to momentum being your friend was extended to add…. ‘but not when going downhill!’

The Tenere uncontrollably gathered speed, with both wheels fighting for traction, and losing. In a vain attempt to recover control, I took to the grass, hoping that there would be more grip, but it was off-camber, the front wheel tucked, and

KIWI RIDER 125

126 KIWI RIDER

DAY 3 Day 3, and the overnight rain continued to hammer down. There was no risk of dust today. Fortunately, there were fewer slippery sections, and more shinglebased tracks, as well as some long sealed sections, as we were again in the Marlborough Sounds, this time with the bulk of the day spent on the divide between Queen Charlotte Sound and Kenepuru Sound.

Naturally, we didn’t go there directly – the course took us a devious way, and following a muddy ascent in the Robertson Range to a lookout in the forest I came to a test that my worn tyres, had they the ability to speak, would have mocked.

THE SUBTLE ARTS A switchback climb on long wet green grass was a chance to demonstrate the subtle art of clutch, throttle, and brake control, and the ability to move your weight around and to choose a line that might offer just a tiny bit more grip than another one.

This was OK going up, and resultant wheel spin was carefully modulated. It was obvious that a steep descent would be extremely hazardous, and in light of the previous day’s misfortune, I reduced my tyre pressures. (Racing Dave’s Tip of the Week – a well-worn T63 will grip confi dently on muddy wet grass at two psi.

Yes, two.) The back tyre was at a more moderate eight psi, so rocks were avoided with great care, and my return to the main road was without mishap.

The Kenepuru Road is tortuous. Hap-

pily, the sun was out and the road dry. Sealed, but with mostly blind bends, it is a second and third gearr test of endurance for 40 km, as we headed to our last lunch at Waitaria Bay. You couldn’t get a better feed, and dozens of local mussels were included. An early afternoon loop around the peninsula la followed the coast and a low saddle, e, on shingle then 4WD track, and again i offered stunning views, this time over Pelorus Sound.

ADVENTURE YAMAHA SAFARI

embarrassingly tumbled unhurt, and the Yamaha unscratched, in an undignified heap. Luckily, the chaps waiting at the next gate saw the whole spectacle.

NEARING THE END The winding slog back along the Kenepuru Road was followed by another 20 km of sealed tight stuff through to Picton, where a very steep but fully rideable loose-surfaced track up through a quarry brought us to a lookout over Queen Charlotte Sound. When descending, it looked like you would ride over the edge of the world.

I was soaked by a downpour on the road to Port Underwood, but compensation for that was the freshly graded (literally as I arrived) surface, which being moist allowed free reign with the throttle.

The cost of that was super-embarrassing – I ran out of fuel. A boatie setting up camp gave me a couple of litres from his outboard, and I cruised sheepishly back to Blenheim.

THANKS GUYS Another outstanding event, with the course laid out by locals Bill and Michael Brownlee and John Sinclair. Thanks to Yamaha’s support, Mike Britton and his team gave us the chance to ride new and otherwise inaccessible terrain, mix with like-minded and keen riders, and enjoy wonderful scenery. Roll on the 2011 Safari. KR

Top to bottom: Yet another lovely valley view, then into a forest near Havelock, followed by Craig and Kim Thompson two up on a R100GS; John Sinclair, route finder extrodinaire and finally, Phil Winter on French Pass.

KIWI RIDER 127

DIRT COMP WOODVILLE

B

en Townley arrived at Woodville as firm favourite to win the main title, particularly after having such a brilliant run of wins since his first comeback ride just a month earlier.

And it would have been ideal for him to add the Woodville trophy to that of the Whakatane Summercross crown he won in December and the national supercross title he’d wrapped up in Auckland just a week before the Woodville event.

But, in the end, the day belonged to Christchurch’s Justin McDonald, the Honda rider making it two major titles in a summer that will go down on his CV as the most successful of his career.

McDonald had wrapped up his first national motocross title - the senior MX1 crown no less - in New Plymouth just two months earlier.

The entry list for Woodville read like a Who’s Who of the dirt bike world with national MX2 motocross champion Michael Phillips (Rotorua), national 125cc motocross champion Damien King (Cambridge), United States crosscountry No.1 Paul Whibley (Pahiatua),

MCDONALD & TOWNLEY STEAL THE SHOW WORDS & PICS: Andy McGechan

It wasn’t quite the farewell present that Ben Townley wanted, but at least he won the MX1 class at the annual Honda-backed NZ MX GP at Woodville over the January 30-31 weekend. Andy McGechan has the story and took the pics.

128 KIWI RIDER

Number won! Justin McDonald did event sponsor Honda proud at Woodville winning the invitational international feature race from KTM’s Shaun Fogarty and Yamaha’s Darryll King. Favourite Ben Townley was the man to beat in MX1 on his Kawasaki only to fall foul of the muddy conditions (see sequence on facing page) in the feature.

DIRT COMP WOODVILLE

junior world 85cc motocross champion Jay Wilson (Australia) and former New Zealand and Australian motocross champion Cody Cooper (Mount Maunganui) just some of the superstars there to keep Townley and McDonald on their toes.

It was just the weather that didn’t co-operate.

THEN IT RAINED Though it was hot, dry and dusty on Saturday, organisers were forced on a very wet Sunday to reduce the programme by one race per class as rising water levels in the river bisecting the venue threatened to strand riders and spectators alike.

The popular river race was the first event to be dropped from the programme after Whibley checked out the course route and then promptly drowned his Yamaha.

But, even with an abbreviated schedule, the racing that did happen was worth every penny.

Honda’s McDonald was beaten to the chequered flag in both the MX1 races – those two races won convincingly by Townley – but, significantly, it was McDonald who won the one-off feature race, the 15-minute Invitation International race, therefore claiming the prized Woodville trophy.

MCDONALD IN FRONT McDonald led Gisborne’s Shaun Fogarty (KTM) and Hamilton’s Darryll King (Yamaha) to the chequered flag in the feature race after Townley, at that stage running in second spot, succumbed to the slippery track, crashing his Kawasaki and eventually withdrawing.

“For the first three laps of the feature race I kept the throttle pinned to the stop, but when my pit signals told me Townley had crashed out, I backed it off and cruised to the win,” said McDonald.

Only 12 of the 27 starters finished the feature race and only the top three riders completed 10 laps.

Best place to get a shot of bikes not absolutely covered in mud was at the start where (top shot) we see BT (#101) battling for the holeshot out of the gate in one of his races. Second shot sees some first corner action with Justin McDonald (#1) and Cody Cooper (#902)

DISAPPOINTED BUT….

It was certainly a consolation that Townley won both the earlier MX1 class outings earlier in the day. A day he otherwise thoroughly enjoyed.

“It’s fantastic to come here and win races,” said Townley afterwards. “I have not raced at Woodville since I was about 13 or 14.

“Of course I was disappointed not to win the main race but the two MX1 race wins were still good for me. I wanted to test my speed and fitness today but the conditions wouldn’t allow that. At least I finished the day still healthy and fit.

“Mud is always a good equaliser.

I feel I’m definitely ready to go international again. My recovery is all going to plan.”

KIWI RIDER 129

DIRT COMP WOODVILLE

RESULTS

WIKI STEPS UP The senior MX2 (250cc) class at Woodville was won by Hamilton’s Jesse Wiki (Honda), while Auckland’s James Ainsworth (KTM) won the 125cc class and also claimed the under-21 crown, with the Vets class again the preserve of Darryll King (Yamaha).

As well as winning the Vets class 41-year-old five-time former Woodville winner King also finishing runner-up to Jesse Wiki in MX2 and came home third in the feature race.

Meanwhile, Saturday’s junior racing had gone ahead in vastly contrasting conditions, dust billowing from the sunbaked Woodville terrain.

Outstanding performances on Saturday came from Rotorua’s Scott Canham (Kawasaki), Rangiora’s world junior 85cc No.8 and national 85cc motocross and supercross champion Micah McGoldrick (KTM), world junior 85cc champion Jay Wilson (Australia, KTM), Cromwell’s Sam O’Callaghan (Honda), Mangakino’s Kayne Lamont (Yamaha), national junior 125cc champion Dion Picard (Atiamuri, Suzuki), Oamaru’s Joel Miekle (Honda), Silverdale’s Claude Griffith (Yamaha) and Otago’s world junior 85cc No.6 Courtney Duncan (Yamaha). KR

Champion of Champion in the Junior ranks on Saturday was Scott Canham (centre top and chequered flag shot) seen here flanked by runner-up Sam O’Callaghan from Cromwell (left) and Aussie Jay Wilson (right). O’Callaghan (next shot down) led the South Island charge in the Junior ranks after usual pace-setter, KR columnist Courtney Duncan, had bike problems.

130 KIWI RIDER

2010 HONDA NZ MXGP WOODVILLE JAN 29-31 Seniors - Sunday Invitation international race: 1. Justin McDonald (Christchurch, Honda); 2. Shaun Fogarty (Gisborne, KTM); 3.

Darryll King (Hamilton, Yamaha); 4. Peter Broxholme (Tauranga, Honda); 5. Nick Saunders (Taupo, Kawasaki). GP MX1: 1. Ben Townley (Tauranga, Kawasaki) 50 points; 2. Justin McDonald (Christchurch, Honda) 42; 3. Michael Phillips (Rotorua, Honda) 42. GP MX2: 1. Jesse Wiki (Hamilton, Honda) 45 points; 2. Darryll King (Hamilton, Yamaha) 44; 3. Evan Wadsworth (Blenheim, Kawasaki) 35.

GP 125cc: 1. James Ainsworth (North Shore, KTM) 47 points; 2. Damien King (Cambridge, Yamaha) 40; 3. Roydon White (Tauranga, KTM) 40. GP Under 21: 1.

James Ainsworth (North Shore, KTM) 50 points; 2. Roydon White (Tauranga, KTM) 44; 3. Joshua Jack (Kaukapakapa, Suzuki) 36. GP Vets: 1. Darryll King (Hamilton, Yamaha) 50 points; Mitch Rowe (New Plymouth, Yamaha) 38; 3. Greg Ngeru (New Plymouth, Honda) 38.

Juniors - Saturday Champion of champions, 125 and 250cc: 1. Scott Canham (Rotorua, Kawasaki); 2. Sam O’Callaghan (Cromwell, Honda); 3. Dion Picard (Atiamuri, Suzuki). Champion of champions 85 & 150cc: 1. Micah McGoldrick (Rangiora, KTM); 2. Joel Miekle (Oamaru, Honda); 3. Zach Lawrence (Hastings, Honda). 14-16 years’ 250c: 1. Sam O’Callaghan (Cromwell, Honda) 65 points; 2. Scott Canham (Rotorua, Kawasaki) 55; 3. Bjarne Fredericksen (Masterton, Honda) 55. 15-16 years’ 125cc: 1. Kayne Lamont (Mangakino, Yamaha) 75 points; 2. Jay Wilson (Australia, KTM) 66; 3. Broc Martens (Waitakere, KTM) 58. 12-14 years’ 125cc: 1. Dion Picard (Atiamuri, Suzuki) 75 points; 2.

Brandon Tipene (Auckland, KTM) 64; 3.

Hamish Harwood (Takaka, Yamaha) 62.

12-16 years’ 150cc: 1. Joel Miekle 1. (Oamaru, Honda) 69 points; 2. Zach Lawrence (Hastings, Honda) 67; 3.

Brayden Stephens (Pahiatua, Honda) 61 13-16 years’ 85cc: 1. Micah McGoldrick (Rangiora, KTM) 72 points; 2. Dylan Wilson (Australia, KTM) 51; 3. Tom Vandenberg (Palmerston North, KTM) 49. 11-12 years 85cc: 1. Joel Miekle (Oamaru, Honda) 72 points; 2. Cameron Forlong (Tauranga, Suzuki) 60; 3. Josiah Natzke (Hamilton, Yamaha) 58. 8-10 years’ 85cc class: 1. Claude Griffith (Silverdale, Yamaha) 72 points; 2. Sam Guise (Masteron, Yamaha) 69; 3. Nathan Strauchon (Lower Hutt, Kawasaki) 51. Women’s Grand Prix: 1.

Courtney Duncan (Palmerston, Yamaha) 75 points; 2. Alex Dillon (Taupo, Honda) 62; 3.

Kimberley Murphy (Rangiora, Yamaha) 60.

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DIRT COMP NZ SX CHAMPS

Supercross is back!

That’s the only conclusion that can be drawn after an exciting quick-fire 2010 series with our own world-class exponent Ben Townley as the key drawcard. Andy McGechan was there.

132 KIWI RIDER

WORDS & PICS: Andy McGechan

Townley has now tested himself against the Kiwi elite and passed with flying colours, easily winning the Senior Open title by finishing the four-round series a whopping 40 points ahead of the next best riders, Mount Maunganui pair Cody Cooper and Mason Phillips.

DIRT COMP NZ SX CHAMPS

T

he rider numbers weren’t great but the quality of the competition over this year’s revitalised New Zealand Supercross championship was world class – Senior Open class winner Ben Townley (Kawasaki) proved that.

Cooper (Suzuki) and Phillips (Kawasaki) finished equal on points but the count-back rule gave the #2 plate to Cooper, while national MX1 motocross champion Justin McDonald (Honda), of Christchurch, had to settle for fourth.

But most focus was, not unexpectedly, on the ‘comeback kid,’ Kiwi international Townley, the drawcard for the spectators and it has to be said, for many of his fellow competitors.

BACK TO HIS BEST Sidelined with a serious shoulder injury for nearly two years, the 25-year-old Townley yelped with delight as he sewed up the title at the final round in Auckland on Saturday January 23.

That result, on the borrowed Kawasaki KX450F, signalled that he was well on the way back to his best.

FACING PAGE Top: The final round of the 2010 NZ Supercross championship series was contested in the heart of Auckland’s Manukau City. Left: Senior Open class saw Ben Townley (#101) continue on his winning way from Christchurch’s Justin McDonald (#201), Mason Phillips (#92), Jesse Donnelly (#933) and Blake Gillard (#15) THIS PAGE (top to bottom): It was only coincidence that meant Ben Townley was ready to begin his career comeback at the same time as the NZ SX Champs was being revitalized but the combination of the country’s top series and some fresh new thinking from MNZ produced one of the best and most relevant series the country has yet seen. The start of one of the Senior Lites races (with KR’s long-serving van ‘Betty Blue’ sticking out like a sore thumb in the background) and we have (from left to right) Mason Phillips, Nick Saunders, Craig Smith, Scott Columb, Jesse Wiki, Ethan Martens, Jayden Jessop and Mitchell Rees exploding out of the gate

While the comprehensive victory was the perfect healing tonic for Townley, it was also, remarkably, Townley’s first senior New Zealand title, the Taupo-born rider turning senior in 2000 (when the then 16-year-old finished runner-up in the 125cc class in his senior motocross nationals debut) before heading overseas with bigger fish to fry in 2001.

KIWI RIDER 133

DIRT COMP NZ SX CHAMPS Another great start shot from the Open class with Ben Townley getting the jump on Mason Phillips (left) and Justin McDonald (right). We then have Senior Lites class winner Mason Phillips enjoying the limelight and Junior Lites (85cc) winner Micah McGoldrick.

And he did ‘fry’ a couple of big fish indeed, winning the MX2 motocross world championship in 2004 (just three seasons after arriving in Europe) and then snatching away the East Coast Lites Supercross crown in the United States in 2007.

Now Townley has signed off his first senior New Zealand championship in style at the final round at Auckland’s Manukau City, on Saturday January 23, racing his way to an impressive hat-trick of wins.

COME A LONG WAY “My recovery has come a long way since I started riding again in October,” said Townley. “I’m still not as fast as when I was at my best, not yet … but I soon will be,” he said, sounding a warning for his American rivals as he soon heads back to the US to prepare for the national motocross series there.

philosophical about his supercross result.

“It was an up and down campaign and not really as I’d have liked it to go,” said the 26-yearold Cooper, who had also finished runner-up to McDonald in the MX1 motocross championship in November.

“I’m happy, though, with how I finished, especially when you consider who I was racing against and with the fact I am riding injured” (his knee damaged at round one).

DOUBLE DUTY As the only rider to campaign two classes, the evening in Auckland was doubly significant for Phillips.

The US series kicks off at Hangtown, in California, on May 22.

In addition to finishing equal runner-up to Townley in the open class, level with fellow Bay of Plenty rider Cooper, Phillips also won the senior Lites (250cc) class, finishing ahead of defending Lites champion Scott Columb (Suzuki), of Queenstown.

Runner-up in a New Zealand championship for the second time in as many months, Cody Cooper was

“Winning the Lites title has not really sunk in yet,” said Phillips on the podium. “On the first lap of that

134 KIWI RIDER

DIRT COMP NZ SX CHAMPS

Suzuki’s Cody Cooper injured a knee at the first round of the 2010 championship series but rode through the pain and discomfort and claim second place behind BT in the Open class on equal points with Mason Phillips. NZ MX1 #1 Justin McDonald (bottom pic) was also in the hunt but ended up fourth behind the trio.

For 15-year-old Isaiah, it was his second national supercross title, having won the junior 11-12 years’ 85cc title in 2007, but for 14-year-old Micah it was his first.

RESULTS 2010 NZ SUPERCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP OPEN 1. Ben Townley (Tauranga, Kawasaki) 222 points; 2. Cody Cooper (Mount Maunganui, Suzuki) 182; 3. Mason Phillips (Mount Maunganui, Kawasaki) 182; 4. Justin McDonald (Christchurch, Honda) 177; 5. Blake Gillard (Auckland, KTM) 129; 6. Jesse Donnelly (Paraparaumu, Suzuki) 123; 7. Andy Blanchard (Christchurch, KTM) 114.

LITES 1. Mason Phillips (Mount Maunganui, Kawasaki) 216 points; 2. Scott Columb (Queenstown, Suzuki) 204; 3. Brad Groombridge (Taupo, Suzuki) 179; 4.

Jesse Wiki (Hamilton, Honda) 147; 5.

Ethan Martens (Waitakere, KTM) 123; 6.

Craig Smith (Christchurch, Honda) 121; 7. Jayden Jessup (Wellington, Yamaha) 113.

last race, I saw Scotty (Columb), was way back and so the pressure came off for me. I wasn’t pushing too hard in that last race because I didn’t want to throw it all away with a mistake.”

As for Columb, he must be getting sick of blokes named Phillips. He was runner-up to Michael Phillips in the motocross nationals and now beaten to the No.1 spot by Mason Phillips.

“I just didn’t have too much luck this season,” Columb shrugged.

JUNIORS JIVE In the two junior classes it was a brother act, with Rangiora siblings Isaiah and Micah McGoldrick riding their KTM bikes to takes the titles in the junior 250cc and junior Lites (85cc) classes respectively.

“Tom Managh (Wanganui) and Dylan Long (Australia) both pushed me hard early in the series but I held strong. I bombed out a bit and lost some ground on Tom at round two in Motueka but it all worked out for me in the end.”

With Long not contesting rounds three or four and Managh crashing to the sidelines and out of the series at round three, the way was clear for Auckland’s Brandon Tipene (KTM) to take runner-up spot in the junior 250cc class, ahead of the injured and absent Managh.

Feilding’s Haki Waller took the No.2 spot in the 85cc class, ahead of fellow Kawasaki rider Scott Sowry, of Pahiatua.

Only seven Open Class riders contested all four rounds; just nine senior Lites riders committed to all rounds; only two riders in the Junior 250cc class made it to the start line at all rounds and just four Junior Lites riders were in attendance at all four rounds. KR

JUNIOR 250cc 1. Isaiah McGoldrick (Rangiora, KTM) 212 points; 2. Brandon Tipene (Auckland, KTM) 172; 3. Tom Managh (Wanganui, Suzuki) 141; 4. Mitchell Biggs (Nelson, Yamaha) 93; 5. Kees van Beek (Whakatane, Honda) 76; 6. Josh Jack (Kaukapakapa, Suzuki) 75; 7. Kent Morley (Paeroa, Yamaha) 64.

JUNIOR LITES (85cc): 1. Micah McGoldrick (Rangiora, KTM) 229 points; 2. Haki Waller (Feilding, Kawasaki) 205; 3. Scott Sowry (Pahiatua, Kawasaki) 175; 4. Brayden Stephens (Pahiatua, Honda) 114; 5.

Dylan Walsh (Christchurch, KTM) 86; 6.

Benjamin Broad (Auckland, KTM) 66; 7.

Josh Bartosh (Wellington, Honda) 64.

KIWI RIDER 135

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KTM SUMMER TRAIL RIDE SERIES FRIDAY TWILIGHT RIDES 15 JANUARY 5 FEBRUARY 26 FEBRUARY

DAY RIDES 12 DECEMBER (SAT) 21 MARCH (SUN) 11 APRIL (SUN)

TWILIGHT RIDES START AT 3.OOPM DAY RIDES START AT 9.00AM ALL RIDES IN RIVERHEAD FOREST SIGNPOSTED FROM ALLELY HOUSE Sh16 98 DB(A) NOISE RESTRICTION

FOR ENQUIRIES PHONE: TJEBBE BRUIN 09 480 9408 BILL MANCER 09 479 5319 136 KIWI RIDER

Ever tried to explain to ignorant workmates why you love motorbikes?

It’s tough isn’t it? Finding the right words to convey the unadulterated pleasure you have holding something large and throbbing between your legs, with it all being totally legal.

Yep, riding, or better still, racing motorcycles is about the most fun you can have with your clothes on.

Why don’t more people know this?

In the tradition of good investigative journalism, I’ve done some extensive research on the subject. I asked a few friends around.

So few of the motoring public choose motorcycles as their weapons of choice.

Virtually all competitive racers I know travel to the race track in a car, van or truck. Why is this? Because motorcycles can be an absolute pain to commute on and pretty ineffective as freight wagons.

Of course, racing them is another matter entirely.

With dirt bikes, it’s even more difficult to explain your passion to workmates who, by this stage, are sidling away from the coffee machine and scuttling back down the corridor.

Let’s assume most of your fellow inmates at work have had a close encounter of the first kind with a motorbike – they’ve seen one on the road.

However, unless they were brought up on a farm, there’s not much hope they’ve ever seen a jaunty-looking, highly-suspended motocross, enduro or trail bike.

Perhaps a picnicking couple have seen dirt bikes when they were down on the river bank or surf-casting fishermen have seen them rip past on the beach.

Both experiences, while memorable, were no doubt also unpleasant for them.

HANDY ANDY ANDY MCGECHAN

IT’S SIMPLE, MOTORCYCLING IS A BUZZ! We dirt bikers have a tough job convincing people to take us seriously and, more importantly, to take our sport seriously.

To make matters worse, outside of a world championship Grand Prix, with all its pomp and ceremony, helicopters and semi-trailers, television cameras and huge crowds, the sport really doesn’t have a lot of glamour.

It often doesn’t sound exciting either, when you look at the facts. The top speed across rough ground of your average motocross bike seems ridiculously slow. Top speeds may only be something like 40 or 50km/h, or, if you’re a total lunatic and it’s a very steep downhill, you might reach 60 km/h.

‘Hey buddy, it’s simple. Motorcycling is a buzz. If you’ve done it, you’ll know.

If you haven’t, you’re just one of the millions whose life is unfulfilled’

But, as you well know, those sorts of speeds can be very exciting when you’re barely in control and quite painful when you’re not.

Have you ever managed to convince a work-mate to give up a Sunday afternoon and drive 30km beyond the last piece of sealed road to a club motocross? Have you tempted them to sit on your snorting KXF250 and perhaps just ride it around the start area? They either stalled it or flipped it, right?

Brings back memories of your own first time doesn’t it? Remember when you were a dirt bike virgin? Recall the first time you kick-started a bike, closely followed by the first time you picked yourself up, dusted yourself off and checked for bruises.

Remember the despair you felt at your first enduro when you couldn’t get up hill that even little kids on Peewees had no apparent trouble with? Remember the terror you felt when riding along a ridge-top, the Grand Canyon either side, your bike on the verge of stalling and you couldn’t reach the ground?

You didn’t give up though did you? By the end of your first dirt-biking summer you were bouncing competently off little mounds but later telling your friends it was a 30-metre double.

Where are you now? If you’re reading this, you’re either a confident, fearless, experienced racer, avidly soaking up anything and everything about the sport you love or you’re a work-mate of the person who just handed you this magazine and they’re having even greater trouble that I had explaining your reason for living.

Hey buddy, it’s simple. Motorcycling’s a buzz. If you’ve done it, you’ll know. If you haven’t, you’re just one of the millions whose life is unfulfilled.

The rush of adrenaline when you launch off a jump, sail off a drop-off, perfectly rail around a berm or wheelie past the chequers can’t be matched. KR KIWI RIDER 137

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138 KIWI RIDER

Hi there.

My summer back home was great, as it always is really; as I’ve said before it get’s harder to get on the plane and come back each year.

Since being back in Europe I headed straight to Malaga, Spain where it was a nice 18°C to get some riding and testing done. That went well. I was a bit over being on the road after two weeks but the facilities were great and we did get a lot of work done.

We were staying at a kind of hotel resort thing, people owned small houses on it and rented them out when they weren’t using them, and there were heaps of sports teams there from all kinds of sport, football, cycling etc.

That made it easy to train because everyone was there for a reason and working hard. I took my bicycle and headed up into the mountains a few times - a strange feeling because five days earlier I was cycling up the Motueka valley in New Zealand!

Anyway I guess you’re wondering how the Aprilia’s going. The short answer is not too bad. I say not too bad because on some tracks it’s bloody good but on others we are below average.

Why’s this?

COPPINS JOSH COPPINS

BACK TO WORK Well the bike is very, very fast, no doubt about that. But it’s a little heavy. Not in overall weight but the weight is very far forward so it’s hard to control in G-outs and fast jumps or on tricky technical tracks. The fast open tracks were good though. It’s also good in the sand.

Another issue I have is that the power is very on/off without much progression in the power curve.

That’s it though, they’re all my complaints!

We have a 22 millimetre offset coming instead of 20 on the steering head to help with the balance. Also I have a new frame on the way where the engine will sit 10 mm further back and the on/off power delivery can be sorted by the mapping on the lap top so its under control.

The only other thing that’s a bit tough is the factory bike really is an out-and-out race bike. Every time you ride it and at every track you need the whole team there to dial it in... Seriously. Not a lot happens without a lap top and to be honest bringing up Microsoft Word to write this column is hard enough for me so as you can imagine to re-set the engine curve is a bit out of my league!

I’ve just listed the problems, though.

There’s a good side which is much bigger than the bad side. The team is great, for a start. Aprilia is a great company to work for, did you know for instance, that Piaggio which owns Aprilia, Derbi, Gilera etc is the fourth biggest motorcycle manufacturer in the world!

You learn something every day huh?

The bike is very fast and I have done

‘Hope you’re having a great summer. The high here today is 3°C and I’m going riding! Nuts huh! I love my job but days like today are tough!’

15 hours on it so far and haven’t broken a thing. Everything like gearbox, clutch etc is very, very good so on that side the bike is sweet.

Finally, where to from here?

OK. I start racing next weekend then I go to five races in a row; four rounds of the Italian championship then one international in France then it’s not long till GP 1 kicks off... Between now and then I need to sort those few issues on the bike I mentioned and I need to find a bit more speed and shape.

I’ll know more about what I need exactly after a few races though. That’s it for this month. Hope you’re having a great summer. The high here today is 3°C and I’m going riding! Nuts huh! I love my job but days like today are tough!

Cheers, JC

www.joshcoppins.com

KIWI RIDER 139

BT BEN TOWNLEY

A BUSY MONTH you try to ride whoops with one hand there isn’t too much hope. It was a pretty bad crash and I was just glad we were both able to get up from it.

Next up was Motueka. I had ridden there a lot in past years as a Junior and had a lot of fun. The track has changed a little from when I was there last, but remains pretty much the same. I had a great two days racing there, six wins from six starts.

Kia Ora! Wow what a month. In the last 30 days I’ve been a few places and ridden a whole lot of circles so try and keep up as I fl y through it all.

We packed up the car after Summercross and headed off to Wellington to catch the ferry to the Mainland. I had been down South to catch the first round of the NZ MX Nationals, but it had not been since I was 14-years-old that I had packed the car and caught the ferry to go racing down there.

Jumping on the Interislander we had some txts from the previous boat that it was pretty choppy in the straight, and as we left the Wellington harbour we hit a huge swell head on and it definitely wasn’t the funnest feeling.

Timaru was the first stop on our trip.

I had never raced there so I was looking forward to it and getting under way with the NZ SX Champs. Cody and I had some close racing, the Man on Man was tight and it set the tone for the rest of the evening.

Moto 1 I over-jumped a double and stalled it, nothing like making hard work for myself eh? I got going quickly and for some reason I really enjoy coming through the pack and passing people, so I managed to get all the way back to the lead and take the first one. Moto 2 was definitely an interesting one. Coops got the jump in the start and we’re pretty close on speed. I tried to make the pass as we came down Timaru’s long timing lane where we took timing options, but I couldn’t quite get it made. However the next lap I was able to get alongside Cody in the same spot.

From there we had a pretty spectacular crash. I lost speed as we both tried to enter the whoops and as we started to hit the whoops caught arms or handlebars, ripping our hands from the bars and when

140 KIWI RIDER

The last moto was interesting as the skies opened and laid down some moisture for us to deal with. Now I really enjoy a little bit of mud riding but it was the first time for me on a Supercross track in slippery conditions and it was definitely sketchy to say the least, trying to line up whoops or triples while wheel spinning is pretty tough!

‘Manukau was a race I was really looking forward to. There is something about going to an event where the track is brand new, it’s pretty exciting’ who aren’t necessarily petrol heads. I hope we have all of our brands present next year.

On to Tokoroa and I was pretty excited to rip up the Amisfield track, it had taken some pretty big changes over the past month and I had been involved with them, so I was interested to hear the opinions of the other riders.

Finally, Manukau was a race I was really looking forward to. There is something about going to an event where the track is brand new, it’s pretty exciting. Carl Sorrenson had sculpted a masterpiece outside the Telstra Clear events centre and it was set to see some awesome action.

Racing under lights is awesome and Tokoroa was the one and only this year. It definitely adds to the atmosphere of the racing and I think with the way the sport is headed it’s something we need to have more of.

I’d go as far as saying, in fact, that the final round of the New Zealand Supercross Champs was the best SX event New Zealand has had, the racing was excellent and it was a show for everyone who turned up on the evening.

Speaking of the sport, I was very surprised Honda and Yamaha did not have their race transporters present at any of the rounds. Mike Fisher from Suzuki, Mike Cotter from Kawasaki, and KTM had excellent set ups and it was a perfect time for their brands to be on show.

I had a great night of racing. Cody pipped me in the Man on Man racing, but I was able to get some back in the three motos and finally got my first New Zealand title as a senior! It was a great series, we had good crowds at all rounds and the whole level of SX in NZ is going to keep growing from here.

Most rounds had at least 2,000 spectators, other than Woodville, Whakatane or Taupo I don’t know of many events that attract spectators numbers as supercross does, it is the perfect time for our sport to be on show and especially to expose our sponsors to viewers that come to events

www.bentownleymx.com

Finally, Thanks to Penny Homes, Kawasaki, Mr Motorcycles, Kiwi Rider, Troy Lee Designs, Pro Shield, RK Chains, Silkolene and Bridgestone for all of their support and help to getting my first NZ SX title.

BT #1

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KIWI RIDER 141

ULYSSES AUCKLAND INVITES ALL MOTORCYCLISTS TO THE 15TH ANNUAL

CHARITY MOTORCYCLE RIDE Photo: David Cohen

DATE: Sunday 14th March START: 9:00am (arrive by 8am please) LOCATION: NZ Bloodstock Centre Karaka, Papakura off ramp ROUTE: SOUTHERN MOTORWAY ¶ HARBOUR BRIDGE ¶ A.U.T. AKORANGA DRIVE

Get friends and family to sponsor your ride by creating your very own page on www.fundraiseonline.co.nz The top two fundraisers will join the crew on board the Westpac Rescue Helicopter on a scheduled training flight!

All proceeds to the Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust.

There will be food and drinks at Akoranga Campus. Public welcome at the finish. Wet or fine, no cancellations! Event enquiries to Richard 09 482 0478. Badge $10, T-shirt $20. Buy a T-shirt or badge & be in with THREE CHANCES TO WIN vouchers from Motomail (1 x $500 and 2 x $250) PLUS spot prizes. Any donation of $10 earns you $25 discount at Bits4Bikes (conditions apply).

142 KIWI RIDER www.motomail.co.nz

TRAIL RIDING DESERT STORM

BACK IN THE SADDLE Getting back into it at Suzuki Desert Storm

Back in the day, Osborne’s mate Gus was a handy sort of Enduro rider…or at least he was until he defected to the treadlie world. Recently though, he’s been casting sideways glances at the various dirt bikes at Kastle KR and when he heard about Nick Reader’s latest Suzuki-backed Desert Storm Trail Ride….well, you can probably guess the rest.

M

y heart beat like a jack hammer behind my chest protector, my screaming lungs couldn’t draw enough air from spaces in my helmet as I pushed the Husky out of the river.

The bike and I had just leapt from the riverbank, stalling upon landing, for the umpteenth time. The borrowed knee braces made it near impossible to bend my already swollen right knee in MX pants that were bordering on a youthful fit, when my body was far from it.

My half-arsed kicks were becoming ineffective while the borrowed neck brace felt restrictive and alien as I attempted to get a view of the hot start knob on the borrowed bike that sat

silent between my aching thighs.

Glen ran down from the sea of faces on the lower slopes of the EnduroCross course and offered me some tips on starting the temperamental Italian, but in the end had to fire her up for me, jandals and all!

I could feel the crowd by now, the expectation was like a ringing in my ears…the only way back up to the top was the high jump, which next to the river jump, was the only other obstacle that had me shit-scared. Being the last rider to be on course before the timed runs began meant all eyes followed my progress as I gassed it toward the sheer face of the high jump; the Red Bull shooter had mixed with the adrenalin

WORDS & PICS: Gus Stephens

surging through my veins and together they screamed ‘DON’T THINK, ACT – DO IT! DO IT! DO IT!’ As I accelerated up the face to the vertical ruts at the lip a thought flitted through my mind – ‘how the bloody hell did I get into this?’ And then I was airborne, the back of the bike rising fast and my feet floating off the pegs…hang on bro, we’re going down.

LONG STORY SHORT It all began over a year ago when a good mate Bruce Wilson (then editor of New Zealand Mountain Biker mag) had been badgering me to sign up for the ‘09 event, his description of the tracks, scenery and vibe delivered with all the KIWI RIDER 143

TRAIL RIDING DESERT STORM

Two-day ride had everything from flat out fire trails to gnarly bush sections, boulders the size of bowling balls in the rivers and fun events to keep everyone entertained.

Event is a true family affair to catering for everyone from hard-out pro-MXers to Mum, Dad and the kids. The view, Sunday morning from the campsite was stunning.

But change in the weather meant the mountain was soon shrouded in mist.

big bike let alone a small-wheeled one.

Speaking of which, as the weary, filthy riders began to return from the back and beyond, it was plain to see that things were a little tough out there. I went to check on the DR’s progress to find Nick suiting up to head out – someone had broken a femur out the back of the west loop, and there were more stories of injured riders and expired bikes.

enthusiasm and giggles of a school boy after a can of V, the big sort.

I had vowed to attend the following year; after 20 years absence from racing in Expert Enduros (called ‘A grade’ back then) he was slowly drawing us both back into dirt bikes via these ‘Trail Rides.’

I was not alone either, four of my old buddies from those days had taken my Desert Strom suggestions more seriously than expected and before long we were loading up the Winnebago Glen had just bought back from the States. Or at least that was the plan.

While it may have been the biggest motor home any of us had ever seen, the borrowed trailer could only hold four bikes…meaning my trusty DR350 needed a lift down.

After a phone around old contacts I remembered the chance meeting I’d had at the shops a few days ago with Editor Ross. It wasn’t long before a plan was hatched, I’d do a story and ask event organizer Nick Reader for a loan of his DR-Z400.

TIGHT FIT The behemoth cruised effortlessly down to the mountain, stopping only to empty bladders, as certain members of our party did their best to make a dent in the considerable cache of beer on board.

The marshal made a comment about the big Ford and waved us into 144 KIWI RIDER

the paddock with the other campers… it looked tight for such a whale of a bus, but Glen expertly guided her to a landing spot and like some alien mother ship the auto jacks extended beneath us to find a perfect level.

Saturday dawned grey and wet; after a hearty breakfast it was time to find a bike. Nick looked busy and a tad stressed, but even though it took about 10 minutes for him to remember our phone conversation, he still chatted to me with full attention (nice bloke). His DR-Z 400 was booked for new tyres to be fitted that morning so I waved the boys off to do the long loop and made my way to see Peter Goldfinch at the Suzuki tent.

Before long I was on a new DR 250 and slip-sliding around the rooty 12km ‘Novice’ loop, that didn’t seem so novice in the wet.

Yum, that was fun, next was a truly humbling experience when Peter suggested I take out the new RMX450 for a blast. Well! The layout, brakes, suspension all felt incredible, and the power was so linear it was deceptive – there is certainly a lot there!

A FAMILY AFFAIR Afterwards as I strolled around the pits taking photos, the event began to show its true colours. This is a weekend for all into dirt bikes. Families arrived with three generations in riding gear, and even the young tackled the longer loops that were difficult on a

Nick was forced to shut down sections of the course as more loops became almost impassable; as he said in his race report email; ‘I was looking for a plan D’ as plans A, B and C fell to the weather. My crew had just made it back in, minus Rob who was a relative new comer to the sport. It turned out one of his steering stop bolts had fallen out which led to his CDI being crushed by the triple clamp. After he finally made it back an angel in the form of John Steer, a KTM rider and mechanic, appeared from nowhere and eventually he and Rob had things patched up and ready for Sunday.

HIT THE SPOT

The next morning dawned fine with fantastic views of the mountain, but not for long. By the time we had set out for the Eastern loop cloud had enveloped Mt Ruapehu and dashed any chances of the classic Desert Storm shot that I was hoping for.

That said, the trails were superb, with nice technical expert sections spicing things up now and then. Every so often we would come out on to a firebreak and open it up, and then in the middle of nowhere, was a wee motocross track.

The Desert Storm had certainly w touched a spot in me, well a few actually going by the pain all over my body…but seriously, you can see why numbers are consistently around the 1000 mark for each day’s riding. I will definitely be back next year,, with my own bike, and a prayer for nice weather – gotta get that mountain shot!

The expert deviation that took riders down to the boulder-strewn river turned out to be the last, as we then joined up to the second half of Saturday’s West loop which had been deemed ‘all-Expert’ after the track cut out…if only I had seen the sign.

Signs make it clear you only get to ride legally here when there’s an organised event like Suzuki Desert Storm.

Camaraderie is a given, riders helping each other out of tight spots knowing the favour will be returned when the boot is on the other foot. Speaking of which when you ride a quad...you need all the help you can get!

JAKE’S THE BLOKE TO BLAME Jake was the one that started it all off. I had a quick fang on Glen’s borrowed Husky TC250 and loved the light weight, then Jake piped up: ‘You should ride it in the Enduro Cross’…ah, the power of suggestion.

Big thanks to Paul and Nathan who helped me get across the river without drowning the Husky or my camera gear, in the end we seemed to be the last riders out on this challenging loop. It was good to have the company when feeling so fatigued, a couple of times I got a little ahead, and then got stuck – you can’t help but feel vulnerable in such terrain when you are alone and I decided to keep them both in sight as much as possible. On the other side of the coin, er, course; riders were enjoying loamy bermed corners and whoops through trees and due to a sandy soil base, not the mud present on Saturday’s course.

TRAIL RIDING DESERT STORM

THE NEXT MORNING

By the end of the second day, of course, we were all ridden out and loaded the gear into the mighty Ford and set coordinates for Auckland.

What we didn’t realise was the borrowed trailer had some surprises in store for us.

After leaving Taumarunui Jake said we must have pissed off the big Maori fella in the black Explorer as he was making gestures for us to pull over, it turned out the tail gate had fallen off about 20km back and he had kindly propped it up against the Armco for us…but that wasn’t the end.

After arriving in Huntly, Glen took a deviation to pick up some parts for a racecar he was building. After getting the parts we went to pull away only to have the tow coupling all but separate from the trailer due to a crappy weld, so it was off to a mate of the parts seller where our engineer Mike and his new friend fabricated and welded the trailer to a state better than new....

A good thing because unless we can find a better one the guys and I are obviously going to be borrowing it again.... KR

Problem: how to take photos and ride the event at the same time? Solution: rely on being eliminated early, and then take photos. As I mentioned earlier it had been a very long time since I tackled anything close to this sort of terrain, and there had been many injuries since then too…but the boys were keen as to see someone from our team go for it, and that someone seemed to be me.

Watching the top riders do the high jump did nothing for my confidence, it was obvious that the roughly four metre quarter pipe dug into the side of the bank was an abrupt obstacle that took skill. The two MX boys, Mark Penny and his mate were shooting for the sky and unbelievable to watch, but it was technique that won the day when ATV ace Jason Jepson skillfully flew the bike just clear of the bar.

KIWI RIDER 145

KR KIDS COURTNEY DUNCAN

JUNIOR MX WITH COURTNEY DUNCAN to finally claim the win ahead of Australia Dylan Wilson.

HELMET CAM In the final race of the 13 -16s I was wearing a helmet cam. A good thing because I won that race with Micah finishing second.

Overall I was sixth overall which was OK as I had a dnf and I was still pleased with my first place in the last race.

Hi everyone and welcome back!

It’s actually quite hard to believe that it is the start of February already. Hope you all had a good holiday and are enjoying being back at school or work.

Micah McGoldrick won the overall and rode strong all weekend. Dylan Wilson finished up second which he was stoked with and Tom Vandenberg rounded out the podium.

WOODVILLE

WOMENS’ RACES

First event of the year was the New Zealand Motocross Grand Pix at Woodville. The weather was great to us Juniors on Friday and Saturday with the Manawatu sun out shining, but I’m not too sure if the Seniors enjoyed their weather on Sunday?

In the Women’s class I won all three of my races. Alex Dillon rode good and

finished second and Kimberley Murphy got third place Congratulations to my cousin Regan who won all three of his races aboard his CRF50. It was his first trip up to the North Island and his biggest event so far, so well done Regan you rode awesome.

Thanks to everyone who helped me out over the weekend; Noddy and Grant for helping me out and fixing the bike, Noddy for driving up and Mum for cleaning all my gear.

Thanks to everyone who cheered me on and thanks to Lamonts for letting me pit under their tent and Yamaha for the pit site.

Take care and I’ll see ‘ya at the track Courtney Duncan #8

I raced two classes over the two days which I enjoyed because I was out on the track more and it’s a lot of fun.

In terms of the racing I had a bit of bad luck at Woodville but everyone gets that at some time don’t they?

In the second 13-16yrs race my bike’s throttle stuck open and I had to pull in to the pits to fix it. I then went back out but didn’t finish in the points. Haki Weller was leading the race at the time but then he ended up with a dnf because of bike problems which was bad luck as he was going good, leaving Micah McGoldrick

Thanks to: GMD, Backflips, Otago Transport, Bridgestone, Mike Gould Yamaha, Yamaha NZ, Yamalube, Fox, Scott, Sports Pro, Suspension Tech.

146 KIWI RIDER

Hi everyone, welcome back to this month’s column. As for all of us, it’s time to get back into shape and try to wear off the Xmas lunches and our most favourite Xmas cake.

After promising my uncle I would go swimming with him in the mornings, Pos (family mate) and I decided we would give it a go. After a few 5.30am starts, I am finally getting the early start sorted out…

KNEE UPDATE Since last month’s column I had my final check up on my knee. Well, so I thought.

After a few tests with the surgeon it showed that there is still nowhere near enough strength to handle a day at the track.

This has really put an end to my chances of racing at the Auckland Champs.

At this point, I have a new strength programme (thanks to Ants for organising my programmes). Hopefully I will be back on the bike ready for racing at the end of May.

KR KIDS HAMISH DOBBYN

MOTOCROSS WITH HAMISH DOBBYN CHRISTMAS BREAK Just as quick as it came, it was over. This year was a bit different for me. I guess it was completely different; trading a racer’s lifestyle of racing, travelling and training, to eating Xmas ham, sitting on the beach, late nights and sleep-ins.

Thanks to a family friend, Aroha, who let us have a few rides on the family’s jet ski. I must say, it is the closest thing to a motorbike. I have been keeping away from motocross for the last few months. I just cannot handle going to a motocross event without a bike, although Dad and I made a trip to SummerX for a look.

It was amazing to watch such close racing between BT and Mikey. Hopefully we can have some kiwi boys on top this year!

Until next time, remember to keep away from the cake and the hams; the holidays are OVER. Time to get stuck into training and work.

All the best, Hamish Dobbyn

KIWI RIDER 147

LOOKING BACK 5/10/15 YEARS AGO

1 Y 15 YEARS AGO MARCH 1995

10 YEARS AGO MARCH 2000

FIVE YEARS AGO MARCH 2005

- T - Two time Coca-Cola Suzuka 8-hour winner Aaron Slight hoped to be able wi to contest the opening round of the World 500 Championship at Sydney’s W Eastern Creek Raceway on March 26.

E After two days testing various new A components on his Castrol Honda RC45 co Philip Island, Slight was provided with a at P Honda NSR500 for the final half day. Slight Hon summed it up in one word. ‘Awesome.’ sum

- In a rare move, Honda pulled the wraps off some prototype motorcycles at the 33rd Tokyo Motor Show, with a 1500cc V6 the undoubted star attraction.

Called the X-Wing, Honda provided little details of the bike, leaving show goers to make their own assessment of the machine which the company describes as a ‘near future sports-tourer.’

- Suzuki New Zealand celebrated the 20th Anniversary of the legendary GSX-R750 by releasing a limited edition model as well as a limited edition GSX-R600. The two bikes were finished in a limited edition blue and white with special graphics, including a 20th Anniversary emblem and individual serial number fitted to the upper fork clamp. The 20th Anniversary 600 also received the trapezoidal radiator the 750 received during its major upgrade for the 2004 model year.

- New Zealand Kawasaki importer Kawasaki Motorcycle Distributors were upset with the technical rules governing the national Superbike Championship and took issue with the inclusion of the Britten V1000s the year’s series.

In the January issue of ‘Topics’ the Kawasaki Club newsletter, Kawasaki Club coordinator Wayne List was critical of the use of the term ‘Superbike’ to describe a local class that is not based on world Superbike regulations. Jason McEwen convincingly won the New Zealand Superbike Championship series on a Britten 500, winning all but one of the eight races.

- Figures from the LTSA showed that Suzuki continued to lead road bike sales in New Zealand in 1999, topping the registration charts for the fourth successive year. The records showed that 1225 Suzukis were registered in 1999, representing 37.1 per cent of all two wheelers registered that year. That was more than double the number of Hondas registered, with Yamaha taking the number three spot from Harley-Davidson which was now fourth.

- The MV Agusta Group (MV, Cagiva and Husqvarna) found themselves out of the red when there were thrown a lifeline by the Malaysian automotive group Proton, which agreed to underwrite a capital increase of Euro 70 million. This followed a November 17 2004 ruling in the Varese District Court terminating the temporary receivership proceedings for MV Agusta.

- The 1995 Suzuki New Zealand Thundercross Nationals at Warkworth looked set to attract a quality field of star motocross and cross-country riders from all around New Zealand. Over 351cc class winner John Penny returned to defend his title, but this wouldn’t be easy with the likes of Mitch Rowe, Darrin Capill, and Darryll Hurley all out to unseat the two times winner.

- Wayne Gardner made his return to two wheeled action after several years racing Holden V8s in Australia and Tokyo sports cars in Japan. Partnered by junior road-racer Russell Holland, Gardner rode a Moriwaki MH80R motorcycle, built by the company that took him to international fame and eventually, fortune. Gardner finished the first session in seventh position and the second in fifth – not bad for a comeback kid.

- Roving KR contributor Mike Nash penned a tribute to the Boxing Day races around Wanganui’s Cemetery Circuit. He recalled a crowd-pleasing lap by Bruce Anstey to recognize his winning of the Isle of Man that year, as well as a lap by favoured city son Rod Coleman aboard a beautifully restored AJS 7R, identical to the one he won at the Isle of Man 50 years beforehand. Crowd-pleasers of the day included an old Triumph sidecar and tight battles between the non-Japanese Supermotards and the BEARS’ big twins.

- Jason King, youngest of the flying King brothers, was killed in a car accident at New Plymouth on February 17. The 22-year-old King was a passenger in the car. Jason started motocross racing in the Junior Under 12 years 85cc class and won his class in the 1985 Auckland Championships. After retiring from motocross, he took up Stock Car racing with his motto of ‘go hard or go home.’

- Shayne King managed to qualify his factory KTM for the third and fourth rounds of the AMA Supercross Championship in the United States after failing to make the cut at the first two rounds.

King brought the thundering 520cc fourstroke home 18th at round three in San Diego and matched that placing a week later in Phoenix.

- Taupo’s Ben Townley and SsangYong managing director Russell Burling joined forces after Townley won the MX2 world motocross title and Korean car importer SsangYong started pouring money into the sport in New Zealand. “Supporting motorcycling is a great thing because 80 percent of motorcyclists drive some kind of four-wheel-drive vehicle or SUV or dual-cab vehicle,” said Burling. KR

That’s a young Dene Humphrey taking centre stage with former contributor Alan Cathcart (inset) testing Aaron Slight’s RC45 Honda Superbike

This time it’s BMW’s F650 which is the cover bike and inset its Jonathan Bentman interviewing Simon Crafar in Crafar’s adopted home in Andora (Spain)

Finally this month a Buell and a KTM share the cover while (inset) Todd. S gets to grip with some of the country’s first dedicated Supermoto/motard bikes

148 KIWI RIDER

SEEV CTEN IO TS N !

Scott Columb leads Mason Phillips in the recent championships Photo: Andy McGeechan

m os Inc t c lu om de pr s N eh Z’ en s si ve

ISSUE 154 • BIKES FOR SALE • EVENTS

KIWI RIDER 149

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150 KIWI RIDER

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5 Stadium Drive, Pukekohe • 09 237 3095 • Mon to Fri 8am - 5pm, Sat 9am - 1pm KIWI RIDER A/H Craig 0274 581 544 • sales: craig@mrmotorcycles.co.nz • parts: scott@mrmotorcycles.co.nz

151

2000 YAMAHA PW50 $1095

2006 KTM SX50 $1995

2009 KAWASAKI EX250 NINJA $6995

1997 BMW R1100 $13995

2000 KAWASAKI ZX12 $9495

1995 HONDA GL1500 GOLDWING $14995

2005 HONDA CB900 $8995

2009 HONDA CB1300 $13405

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10-14 Willoughby St (op. Countdown) Ph 07 838 9299 Jayd 021 284 6632 sales@hondahamilton.co.nz 152 KIWI RIDER

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prices maybe subject to change

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0800 743 3269

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60A Ellice Road, GlenďŹ eld, Auckland Ph 09 443 1722 Fax 09 443 1723 sales@lifanmc.co.nz see our website for your local dealer www.lifanmc.co.nz KIWI RIDER 157

2009 Yamaha YZ125 RRP $10,499 Our price $9,000 From $22/wk with YMF

2007 Kawasaki KX85SW $3295 From $17.78 a week with YMF

2010 Yamaha YZ450F $13,499 From $63.88 per week with YMF

2008 Yamaha YZ450f $7595 Good tyres & chain and sprockets

Runout special New 2009 Yamaha YZ450F Last one. $10,995 or $52.35 per week with YMF

2010 Yamaha YZ250F $13,099 From $61.49 per week with YMF

CENTRAL MOTORS 2001 Ltd Ngatea www.centralmotors.co.nz 60 orchard Rd, Ngatea Ph 07 867 7524 Fax 07 867 7526 â&#x20AC;˘ A/hrs: Orrin 027 293 0420 orrin@centralmotors.co.nz 158 KIWI RIDER

ADVENTURE RIDES FEBRUARY 2010 - 27/1 March, KTM Big Southern Sky Adventure, Oamaru, North Otago to Queenstown, Southern Lakes. For big adventure bikes. Cost $1150, pillion $800. Incl 4 nights’ accommodation, full breakfasts, lunches and evening meal on each ride day, and all luggage movement. Ph Robbie and Connie Crickett on 03 4489582 or 0274354267 or email robbie@highcountry.co.nz MARCH 2010 - 8 March/15 April, Rosco’s Rocky Road Adventure, High Andes Adventure Ride - Chile-ArgentinaBolivia-Peru. Please contact Rosco Pennell at rosco.rr@ihug.co.nz or ph 09 406 8807, or visit http://www.mytb.org/rosco-p - 15/18, Yamaha Taupo Central Trail Ride, new terrain and the best riding the Central North Island has on offer. Ph Mike on 07 8556132 or 021 2849047 or email mike@adventurerides.co.nz.

- 20, KTM Capital Coast Adventure. Rideable on big bikes with pillion passenger, also alternative sections for those seeking a challenge. Half day ride options. KTM demo bikes. Based at Plimmerton School, with free camping on grounds. Entry fee $130 incl lunch, badge, dinner and land access. www.capitalcoastadventure.co.nz APRIL - 10/11, Yamaha Mohaka Adventure Ride, with Britton Motorcycle Adventures. Two day non competitive, self navigated, adventure, suitable for all road legal, dual purpose and trail type motorcycles. www.adventurerides.co.nz, or contact Mike on 07 8556132 or 0212849047

BUCKET RACING MARCH - 13/14, AMCC, at Mt Wellington Kart Club, Rnd 5.

John Connor 0274988883 or itswj@xtra.co.nz

APRIL - 17/18, AMCC, at Mt Wellington Kart Club, Round 6. Contact John Connor 0274988883 or at itswj@xtra.co.nz

CROSS COUNTRY February - 27, Castrol Honda 6 hr Cross Country Race, at Burts Farm Mimiha Road, Matata. Signposted from the Matata Straights (between Te Puke and Whakatane) at Mimiha Rd. Sign in starts 6.30, briefing 8.30, start time 9am. R1 - One bike and two riders R2 - Two bikes and two riders R3 solo. Pumice based pine and gum forest, fantastic riding with track to please everyone. Organised

by Power Adventures. Contact Greg on 027 445 4429 or email 6Hour@poweradventures.co.nz

ENDURO FEBRUARY - 20, Rnd 2 of National Enduro Series & Top Trail Rider Series at Whangamata (15 mins north). $60 seniors, $35 juniors, MNZ or day licence required.

MARCH - 6/7, Round 3, Top Trail Rider and National Enduro Series, Top Trail on 6th, and National Enduro on 7th, at Riverhead

MOTOCROSS February - 21, Dairy Flat School, Honda Warkworth School moto-x series, Race Day 1, sign in 8am, at Woolford’s farm, 100 Horshoe Bush Road, Dairy Flat March - 21, Kaukapakapa School, Honda Warkworth School moto-x series, Race Day 2, sign in 8am, at Foote’s Farm, 2867 Kaipara Coast Highway.

April - 18, Ahuroa School, Honda Warkworth School

EVENTS moto-x series, Race Day 3, sign in 8am, at Carran’s Farm, Carran Rd, crn Kaipara Flats Rd, Warkworth

RALLIES, RUNS & RIDES FEBRUARY - 20, Ride Safe 350, Number 5, with support from Rusty Nuts M/c. Starts 8.30 at the TMG building, Broadway, Newmarket, Auckland, (under viaduct). Approx 600kms on sealed roads. All welcome. Meal and refreshments provided after run.

Alcohol free. Lunch provided. Contact Lee lahurley@ihug.co.nz or phone 09 4165866. Entry fee: Riders $35, pillions $20. Email for internet banking details to rustyinfo@rustynuts.co.nz MARCH - 5/7, March 24th Annual Hare Rally, at Waimate A&P Showgrounds, contact Stuart on 0274 355458 or email whitehorse.cars@xtra.co.nz - 5/7, Suzuki 50 years in NZ reunion, at Wanganui, all Suzuki fans welcome. Includes Classic M/C rally, dinner with guest speakers, Trials and Scramble Champs, register with Sue email Sue_ c37@hotmail.com or robertc@amcom.co.nz, or ph 06 3437585 or visit www.legendsofdirt.co.nz - 14, Westpac Rescue Helicopter Charity Ride, Karaka Blood Stock Centre, Auckland, Papakura off ramp. Organised by Ulysses Club, Auckland, contact Richard Tweedie. See www.silver-bullet. co.nz. Leave Karaka at 9, (be there at 8).

Badges $10, t shirts $20, be in the draw for $500, $250 x2, plus spot prizes. Open to all bikes. Sausage sizzle and drinks at the start and catering at the end.

- 20/21, Cliff Hanger Hillclimb and Rally 2010, prize money and trophies to be won. 6.1 km of winding sealed road. At Te Wharau Gladstone, 10 km east of Carterton, Wairarapa. Entry forms

Dismantling Motorcycles for over 24 years

(sample photo)

99 Kawasaki VN1400 Intruder wrecking now

(sample photo)

Yamaha PW50 wrecking now

Suzuki GSX1100F wrecking now

03 Honda CRF230F wrecking now (sample photo)

1990 Honda NC22 CBR250 wrecking now (sample photo)

(sample photo)

Yamaha XV750 wrecking now

Suzuki LS 650 Savage, wrecking now

2005 Suzuki LT-A, 4WD, 500cc, wrecking now

88-90s Kawasaki GPX250 wrecking now

Suzuki GN250 x 2 wrecking now

ALSO WRECKING: 1988 Suzuki GSXR1100 • 1997 Honda XR70 • TRX 500 auto • 02 - 03 Honda NXR125 x 2

KIWI RIDER 159

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CHARITY TRAIL RIDE • March 14 2010 THE TRAIL: consists of generally gentle to rolling / steep farm land with scenic views. The ride will consist of one loop of approx 30kms and will be open for continuous use until approx 3pm. NO RIDING IN THE PITS. KIDS LOOP: APPROX, 1-1.5KM LONG. This is designed for young and novice riders who are not confident on the main loop. Anybody under 16 on this loop must have adult supervision. NO EXCEPTIONS. NO RIDING IN THE PITS WHAT YOU WILL NEED: Helmets for all are compulsory. Boots (no sneakers) and sensible clothing i.e. long sleeve shirt and long pants. A well prepared motorcycle, spare fuel, good tyres and a good attitude.

SIGN ON: 8.30-9.30am, briefing at 9.40 departing at 10.00am

WHO CAN RIDE: Anyone who has a 2 or 4 wheel off road motorcycle that is in good condition.

NO CHILDREN UNDER 7 ON THE MAIN LOOP. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a riding adult/parent/guardian.

FEES: Adult riders $35 includes lunch. Under 16 $25.

Pillion $20.Family pass (2 adults,2 kids) $90.All fees include lunch and drink.

WHERE: signposted and arrowed from Tuakau, Waikato river bridge.Approx 50mins from the bridge.15km from Port Waikato.

For more information call Andrew or James at FULL THROTTLE MOTORCYCLES on 09 238 5384 PROCEEDS TO TE KOHANGA SCHOOL

212 Manukau Rd, Pukekohe 09 2385 384 www.ftm.co.nz 160 KIWI RIDER

and further info at www.cliffhanger.org.nz, contact Dina Albrett on 06 3798081 or email galbrett@xtra.co.nz. Rally at Te Wharau Road, Gladstone. Entry cost $25 if before 10 March, otherwise $30 late entry. Roast dinner $14 (pre booked before 10th only). Cooked breakfast $7.

BBQ food & drinks at reasonable prices throughout weekend. Live band on Sat night. Graeme 04 565 4445 or 0274 489 106 cliffhangerrally@ vodafone.co.nz for entry forms and enquiries.

- 27, LCTMC Poker Run, at Manakau Hotel, Levin.

Register from 9.30, leave at 11. $15 entry, free camping, prize giving at 6pm. Sniper Alley band at night. Contact Greg or Angela on 06 368 2105 or email lctmc@hotmail.com

ROAD RACING NZ Superbike Championship Round 4: 26-27 February, Manfeild Raceway, presented by Victoria Motorcycling Club. Round 5: 27-28 March, Hampton Downs, presented by the Auckland Motorcycle Club (also featuring the NZ Motorcycle TT)

TOURING MARCH - 8 March/15 April, Rosco’s Rocky Road Adventure, High Andes Adventure Ride - Chile-ArgentinaBolivia-Peru. Please contact Rosco Pennell for more information at rosco.rr@ihug.co.nz or ph 09 406 8807, or visit www.mytb.com/rosco-p - 9/18,Top Half South Island Tour, organised by Boyd Motorcycles. Start at Hamilton, to Wellington, Picton; Nelson, Farewell Spit, Golden Bay; Buller Gorge, Karamea; Westport, Hokitika; Hokitika Wild Food Festival or Fox Glacier; Arthurs Pass, Akaroa; Kaikoura, Hanmer Springs; Lewis Pass, St Arnaud; Nelson, Havelock; return home. Itinerary may change

slightly without notice. Rider $85 per day, pillion $50 per day. Back up van to carry luggage, for breakdowns, flat tyres etc. Return ferry crossing, all accommodation, day maps. All the organising is done for you, you just ride. For bookings contact Glenn at Boyd Motorcycles at glenn@boyds. co.nz or ph 07 8381209, or 0274795998 - 17/26,The Rusty Nuts Super Tour, 10,000 kms 10 days tour, no rest days on this one, covers North and South Islands. For more details & entry form visit www.rustynuts.co.nz or rustyinfo@rustynuts. co.nz or phone Lee or Gail on 09 416 5866

TRACK DAYS FEBRUARY - 20, Kiwi Track Days, 2010 Summer Series at Taupo. Visit www.kiwitrackdays.co.nz to book - 20, Hampton Downs Ride Day, 6x20mins sessions on NZs premier race track, if you can organise 5 of your friends to do a ride day with you, we will give you your ride day for half price, contact Darren Sweetman on 09 416 6266 - 21, Hampton Downs Ride Day, 6x20mins sessions on NZs premier race track, contact Darren Sweetman on 09 416 6266 MARCH - 21, Kiwi Track Days, 2010 Summer Series at Pukekohe. Visit www.kiwitrackdays.co.nz to book APRIL - 16, Kiwi Track Days, 2010 Summer Series at Taupo. Visit www.kiwitrackdays.co.nz to book - 25, Kiwi Track Days, 2010 Summer Series at Pukekohe (ANZAC day). Visit www.kiwitrackdays.co.nz to book

TRAIL RIDES “The Kawasaki Sandpit”, Woodhill Forest, Rimmers Rd entrance, SH16, Helensville.The ultimate offroad motorcycle playground. Come & ride, we are open

EVENTS 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 FEBRUARY - 16, Bugger the Boss; let’s go riding Twilight Trail Ride, at Maramarua Forest. Signposted from Kopuku Rd on SH2 between Maramarua Golf Club and the Red Fox Tavern. Start 13.00.

Motorcycles, quads & side x sides welcome. Free gourmet burger and can of soft drink. Extra burgers and drinks can be purchased too. Cost: $40 Phone 0274454429 for info, or email greg@ poweradventures.co.nz ADULTS only - 20/21, Norsewood Mud Fest Trail Ride 2 Day Event, at Rakatutahi Road, Norsewood, Southern Hawkes Bay. Signposted from Snee Rd off SH2 and north of Norsewood Jens Andersen Rd, off SH2. Sign in 8.45, riders briefing 9.45, start time 10. Suitable for Quads and bikes, helmets and sturdy boots compulsory, no gumboots, minis track provided for young ones. Loop about 25kms with some mud. Contact Rex Rosacker 0274862538 or Craig Rosacker 0272878344 or Angela 06 3740427. $20 per day, bbq lunch provided. Non riders $5 includes lunch. Camping available $10/adult/night $5/child. Need to bring own water and some food. Toilets supplied.

- 21, Port Waikato Family Trail Ride with Counties Honda, at Port Waikato, Sunset Farms.

Signposted from the Tuakau Bridge over the Waikato River, follow the Honda signs to Port Waikato then south for 3 km to the farm. All motorcycles and quads welcome. Farmland riding with native trails, pine block and cliff runs. Once a year only! Organised by Power Adventures, contact Greg at trailrides@poweradventures.co.nz or 0274454429

14 HAKIAHA ST TAUMARUNUI 07 895 7994 A/H: Russell Ph 0274 775 771 Ian 0274 464 849

www.BikeTorque.co.nz • Email: Bike.Torque@xtra.co.nz All prices include GST

$10.700

$11,500

$6,500

Yamaha YZ250F Brand new, run out model

WR250 2009 ex demo Suit new buyer, registration and WoF

Honda CRF450X 2006 Excellent condition, fully serviced.

$7,500

$7,995

$1,895

2008 Honda CRF250 ONLY 55hrs 4 hrs on fresh piston kit, very good condition.

2002 GSF1200 Scorpion muffler, 21,000 kms, excellent condition. Was $8995 now $7995

2007 Honda CRF50 great kids bike in good condition.

KIWI RIDER 161

BIKE WRECKERS

SECOND HAND PARTS MOTORCYCLE WOFs BIKES WANTED NOW WRECKING VFR400NC21 • CBR250MC22 • AN250K2 YZ250D 1992 • TZR2503MA • ZXR250C • ZZR400 ZZR250 • GPX250 • GSX750Y • GPZ750A3 Balius 250 • ZXR750H • SR250 • ZX9R 94

62a Barrys Point Rd, Takapuna, Auckland Ph/Fax (09) 489 7987 actionbikewreckers@clear.net.nz • www.atomicbikes.co.nz

NOW WRECKING HONDA CB250 Hornet CBR250 MC22 CBR250 MC19 CBR250 MC17 CBR250 MC14 VTR250 VTR250 VFR400NC30 GB400 RVF400 CBR600 CBR600 CBR600 VFR750 CBR900 Fireblade VFR750FL VFR800 CB900 Hornet CBR900 CBR900 Fireblade CBR1000 VTR1000 CBR1100 Blackbird CBR1100 Blackbird ST1300 HYOSUNG GT250 GV250 SUZUKI SJ50 EN125 FXR150 RG150 GN250 GN250 GN250 GSF250 Bandit GSX250 GSX250 GSXR250RR GZ250 GZ250 NZ250

1999 1991 1989 1987 1986 2002 2006 1990 1988 1994 2001 2002 1999 1991 1992 1996 1999 2007 1997 2002 2008 2005 2006 2002 2006 2008 2008 2007 2002 2000 1998 2004 2005 1988 1990 2004 2003 1989 2002 2005 1987

MOTORCYCLE

LMVD

ACTION/A ACTION ATOMIC

SG350 Goose RF400 GS500E GS500E GSF600 Bandit GSX600F Katana GSXR600K1 RF600 DL650K4 SV650 GSX750F GSXR750J GSXR750 GSX750FW GSX750F VS750 VN800 VN800 VS800 (S50) RF900 SV1000 SV1000 TL1000S GSXR1000K4 GSXR1000K7 GSXR1000K8 GSXR1100 GSXR1100 GS1200SS GS1200SS GSF1200 Bandit GSF1200 GSX1300R GSX1300R GSX1400 KAWASAKI EX250 Ninja GPX250 GPX250R

2004 1993 1990 2007 1998 2006 2001 1993 2004 2003 1999 1988 2005 2000 1989 1990 1998 1991 2007 1998 2003 2006 1998 2003 2007 2008 1998 1994 2003 2004 1998 2007 2004 2003 2002 2008 1990 2007

BIKE

ZXR250A ZXR250B ZXR250C ZZR250 400 Zepher GPZ500 GPZ500 (ER5) GPZ600R ZZR600 ZXR750A ZXR750B GPZ900 ZX9R ZX9R ZX9R ZX10R ZZR1100 ZZR1100 ZX14R YAMAHA SX-4 (225) Scorpio FZR250 2KR FZR250 3LN SR250 Viagro 250 FZR400 3TJ XJ600 YZF600 R6 FZR600 FZR750 FZ1 YZF1000 R1 YZF1000 R1 YZF1000 R1 FZR1000 Exup FZR1000T FJR1200

BUSTERS

1989 1990 1992 1993 1993 1995 2006 1985 2002 1989 1990 1986 2003 1998 1994 2006 1991 1995 2006 2007 1988 1990 1987 1998 1990 1997 1999 1995 1987 2007 1999 2001 2005 1991 1987 1987

WRECKERS

Wayne Parry Tel 07 824 9585 Fax: 07 824 7745

EMAIL ORDERS wayne@bikebusters.co.nz

BIKES FOR SALE New Bikes Yamaha YZ85Z 2010. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $6299 Yamaha TTR110 new . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $4199 Yamaha YFM90R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $3999 Yamaha YZ250F 2010 . . . . . . . . . from $12999 Yamaha AG100 save $400 . . . . . $3999 $3599 Yamaha AG200 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $6199 Yamaha YFM450 4x4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $13949 Yamaha YFM350 Grizzly . . . . . . . from $9499 Yamaha YFM550 Grizzly . . . . . . from $14699 Yamaha TTR125 new BW . . . . . . . . . . $5599 Yamaha SX-4 225 500km. . . . . . . . . . . . $3699 Yamaha PW80 new . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2299 Yamaha PW50 new . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1899 Yamaha TTR50E new . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2099

Yamaha TTR230 new . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $7099 GasGas EC250 09 Six Day . . . . . . . . . . $12790 GasGas EC300 09 Six Day . . . . . . . . . . $12790

Used Bikes

Yamaha WR450F 06 road kit . . . . . . . . . $7495 Yamaha WR250F 2001, tidy . . . . . . . . . . $3995 Yamaha YFM450FA 4x4 04. . . . . . . . . . $5695 Yamaha AG100 2006 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2495 Aeon 50 Mini Kolt ATV 05. . . . . . . . . . . $1495 GasGas EC200 2007, 10 hours . . . . . . . $6995 Kawasaki KX125 85 vmx . . . . . . . . . . . . $3495 Kawasaki KLR650 1990. . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1995 Kawasaki KLR650 03 5750K, mint . . . $5995 Suzuki DR-Z250 2006 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $3995 Suzuki DR-Z400 2005 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $3995 Suzuki TF125 2004 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1695

WRECKING YAMAHA AG200 1983-97 (MP) DT125LC 1983 (MP) DT200LC 1985 (MP & R) IT175 1978-83 (MP) PW80 1984 (NP) SA50 1982 (MP) TT250 1981-84 (MP) WR200 1991 (NM) XT225 (MP) XT400 1985 (MP) YFM200 (R & MP) YFM350 1988-96 (R & MP) YFM400 4X4 1995 (MP) YTM200 Reverse 1985 ® YZ125 1991-95 (MP) YZ250F 2003 (MP) YZ80 1979-80 (MP)

YZ80BW (NM) HONDA ATC250 1985-86 (R & MP) CR250 1990-92 (MP) CT185 Skipper (MP) FC50 Beat (MP) TRX300 1988-95 (R & MP) TRX350 4X4 1988 (MP) TRX450 4X4 01 (R & MP) XL185S 1990 (MP) XL400 (MP) XR200 1980-83 (MP) XR250A 1980 (MP) XR500R 1981 (MP) SUZUKI DF125 1982-87 (MP) DR200 1985-95 (MP) DS80 (MP)

ER250 1979-90 (MP) LT160 (MP) LT250 1985 (MP) LTF300 4X4 91-98 (MP & R) PE175 1978-82 (MP) RM125 1983-85 (MP) RM125 1998 (MP) RM250 1996 (MP) RMX250 1995 (MP) TF125 1979-99 (MP & R) KAWASAKI KDX175 1981 (MP) KDX200E 1989-94 (MP) KL250 1980 (MP) KLF300 4X4 90-94 (MP& R) KLF300A 1986-87 (MP) KVF650 2002 RED (NM) KLX300 1996-97 (MP)

KM90 (MP) KX80T 1992-97 (MP) KX250 1986-87 (MP) KX250K 1992-96 (MP) KAZUMA/MARSHIN MH200 (MP) ATV110 Oryx GAS GAS EC200 2002 (MP) FSE400 2002 (MP) EC300 2002 (MP) WATER CRAFT JS300 Jet Ski 1989 (MP) JS550 Jet Ski 88-90 (MP&R) (R) running motor (NM) no motor (MP) motor in parts

309 SOUTH RD, HAWERA PH 06 278 4726 MOB 0274 540 073 A/H 06 278 5938 baileymotorcycles@xtra.co.nz

162 KIWI RIDER

- 21, Maungaturoto Primary School Trail Ride at Maungaturoto, Kauri Coast. 265 Whakapirua Road, 3 mins from SH12 on sealed road. Sign in 8.30, briefing 9, start 9. Two wheelers and Quads.

Open farmland. Expert only pine trees section.

Expert only two wheeler sections. Contact John Linton 0274907602 or jd.kf.linton@ubernet.co. nz. Food and drinks for sale. Free tea and coffee.

Adults $35, children up to 16 $15, kids tracks only $10. Tracks open 9am till 3pm.

- 21,Te Akau School Motocross fundraiser, at Te Akau, Waikato, signposted from Huntly and Ngaruawahia, sign in 8am, riders briefing 9.45, start time 10, all riders. across farmland, hills and flat. Contact Angela Downs on 07 8254797.

Adults $20, children $10 (under 16) - 21, Glen Oroua School Trail Ride, at McKelvie Property 1597 Tangimoana Road,Tangimoana, Manawatu. Signposted from SH1, 15 mins north of Foxton or 8 mins south of Sanson. A riders advanced. B riders - medium skill. Quads welcome but track more suitable for 2 wheelers.

Awesome childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s loops. Contact Brendon Tootell at AFC Motorcycles ph 06 3578043 or 021 324727, free lunch, eat as much as you like.

Cash only. $25 adults, $10 children 12 yrs and under. 10 and under on childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s loop must be supervised. No pillions. Must wear helmets, gloves and boots. Quads to carry tow rope. Farm ATV riders must be over 16.

- 26, KTM Summer Trail Ride Series,Twilight Ride, starts 3pm, Riverhead Forest, signposted from Allely House, SH 16. Enquiries ph Tjebbe Bruin 09 480 9408 or Bill 09 479 5319 - 28, Mighty Mokau School Trail Bike Ride, at Piri Piri Station, Awakino, signposted from Junction Service Station, Main Road, Awakino, one hour north of New Plymouth, 1 hr south of Te Kuiti.

Sign on starts 8am, start 9.30, suitable for 2 and 4 wheelers. Three loops approx, 10 kms, 17 kms

and 28 kms. A & B sections Farmland. Some steep climbs and some fast flowing river crossings and a hill climb thro a block of pine trees.

Paddock for kids track. Contact Murray Gemmell 07 8966722 or 06 7529011. MNZR permitted event, ambulance and marshals in attendance. Boots and helmets compulsory. No briefing. Staggered start. Superb all day bbq on sale, $30 per bike. $50 per family (3 bikes).

- 28, Whetukura District, at Te Uri Rd, 27 km east of Dannevirke. Signposted from Ormondville & Takapau. Sign in starts 8.30, riders briefing 9.45, start time 10. Kids track, 2x large loops am & pm for more experienced, something for all abilities. Contact Brenda Massie at the.massies@ xtra.co.nz or 06 374 1573. $15 kids track, $25 per adult, $5 non rider, lunch, excellent food.

- 28, MR Motorcycles Trail Ride Series at Wairamarama, signposted from the Tuakau and Mercer Bridges, starts at Wairamarama Hall.

Sign on from 8.30, ride starts 9.45. Adult rider $30. Family concessions $70. Enquiries 09 2373095 or scott@motorcycles.co.nz, Craig 0274581544 or visit www.mrmotorcycles.co.nz - 28,Tokomaru Range Ride Charity Trail Ride, SH57, approx 4ksm south of Tokomaru Village, contact Horowhenua M/c Club, call 083222595 (calls cost 12c per min), or email hmcc@kol.co. nz. Loop ride, about 45 kms. Subject to change.

Check website www.hmcc.co.nz MARCH - 2, Bugger the Boss Twilight Trail Ride, organised by Power Adventures, sponsored by Huntly Honda, signposted from SH2 at Kopuku Road, Maramarua between Golf Club and Red Fox Tavern. For Adults. Quads also welcome, as well as Side X Sides. Gourmet burgers free and can of soft drink after 5.30. Extra burgers and drink at $5 per burger and $1 per can. Cost is $40 per rider. Contact Greg at greg@poweradventures.

EVENTS co.nz or 0274454429 - 6, Karamu Trail Track Day Ride, at Smith Road, Karamu, Hamilton. Take SH23 from Dins dale on west side of Hamilton, this is Whatawhata Rd, Drive about 10km until you reach Whatawhata.

Continue on over the bridge and take next road on left,Te Pahu Rd. Drive 9.6kms and turn right onto Smith Road, drive to end of road. Sign on 9am. Start time 10am. Experienced and learner only tracks. Mostly clay, bulldozed tracks, open grassland, rolling to steep terrain. Adults (16+) $30, children $15 (bring ID). Spectators free.

Main track approx 14kms long. Learner track for learners only. Track closes 5pm. Contact Aleida on 07 8259809.

- 7, Kaiwaka Coastal Challenge Trail Ride, at Aropaoanui Road, Napier. SH2 Napier-Wairoa Rd, 20 mins north of Bay View. Sign in starts 8.30, briefing 9.45. Start 10am. Juniors, novices and experts. Contact Mike and Rachel Dawson on 06 8366467. Suitable for 2 & 4 wheels, no passengers, $30 per rider. Includes 2 raffle tickets and awesome lunch.

- 7, Awahou School/Pohangina Valley Trail Ride, at Upper Pohangina Valley. Follow signs from Ashhurst, all classes, mixed terrain, organised by Manawatu-Orion M/c Club, contact Murray and Pip Blackley 06 3294048 or 0274432035 - 9, Karamu Trail Track Twilight Ride, on Tuesday, at Smith Road, Karamu, RD5, Hamilton. Start time 16.30. Experienced and Learner only track.

Mostly clay tracks, open grassland. Contact Aleida 07 8259809. Price adults $20, (16+), $10 children. ID for children required.

Spectators free. Main track 14kms long. Track closes 20.30 sharp.

- 12/14, Honda Kids Club Camp Out, at Raglan, directions upon registration. Organised by Power

WR450F 2007 Mint (YZ exhaust) $7995

YZ450F 08, 70 hrs Full GYTR exhaust, anodized rims $7995

YZ250V (2 stroke) 2006 Mint new piston rings, linkage, $5995

JR50 like new $995 / 99 Tidy $695

CRF450 08 Tidy bike $7495

DRZ110 2003 $1995. DRZ250 2005 $ 4995

CRAIG STEVENS MOTORCYCLES LTD 30 Main Road, Tokoroa. Ph 07 886 1014 Craig 0272 442 662 Email: teamcsm@xtra.co.nz

KIWI RIDER 163

Metric nuts bolts & washers Hi-tensile steel with bright zinc coating Dome head cap screw (e.g. fairing fastener kits)

Hex bolts

Hex cap screws (e.g. engine cases)

Hex nylon nuts

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

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

From $150 to $290

Panel screws Nylon washers

Distributed by Eurobike Wholesale.

MOTORCYCLE EXHAUSTS LEO VINCE MUFFLER SPECIALS

Normally $800 & over NOW $585

Triumph Speed Triple TT600 GSXR1000 Honda VTR1000 (each) Suzuki GSF650 Bandit

CUSTOM CHAMBERS EXHAUSTS $997 Triumph Bonnie SE SS mufflers Triumph Speedmaster/America /SS Triumph T100/Bonneville SS

AGENTS FOR TWO BROTHERS MUFFLERS

Custom Chambers Making motorcycle exhausts since 1978

30A Kerwyn Ave, East Tamaki. Ph 09 2741155 www.customchambers.co.nz

Raising funds for

St John Ambulances Date: Registration: Start: Finish:

CUSTOM SPORTS TRIKES CREATED INDIVIDUALLY

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

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

164 KIWI RIDER

Saturday 20th March 2010 8.30am for a 10.00am start Castaways Lodge, Karioitahi, Waiuku Whangamata Club, Whangamata

$25 ENTRY

Spectacular Scenery Poker Run Dozens of Prizes Prize Giving and Entertainment at the Whangamata Club

For more information go to:

www.coast2coast.rotary.org.nz GLENBROOK

The Rotary Club of Drury Inc.

GREYMOUTH POWER

NEW ZEALAND’S BIGGEST SELLING MOTORCYCLE TYRE Distrubted by Nationwide Accessories (W/S) Ltd, Hamilton NORTH ISLAND STOCKISTS Auckland: Botany Honda Motorcycles 09 274 2727 Coleman’s Suzuki 09 303 1786 Cycletreads 09 486 2472 Full Throttle Motorcycles 09 238 5384 Haldane Motorcycles 09 303 0624 Henderson Motorcycles 09 838 5899 Holeshot Motorcycles 09 486 5187 JFK Motorcycles & Jetskis 09 262 4285 JTR Motorcycles Ltd 09 826 4034 Triple X Motocycles 09 265 2135 Mt. Eden Motorcycles 09 303 1960 Papakura M/C Services 09 299 8420 Silverfern Imports 09 299 1006 Watson Racing 09 412 9430 Cambridge: Blackwood Yamaha 07 827 7066 Peter Glidden Honda 07 823 5522 Dannevirke: Hewitts Motorcycles 06 374 7701 Dargaville: Dargaville Honda 09 439 1089 Drury: Drury Perfromance Centre 09 294 7995 Gisborne: C.G.M Motorcycles 06 867 6638 Hamilton: Big Bikes 07 846 6991 Boyd Motorcycles 07 838 1209 Hamilton M/C Centre 07 849 1919 Honda Hamilton 07 838 9299 Road and Sport Motorcycles 07 958 1400 Speed Tech Limited 07 847 8944 Waikato Yamaha 07 850 5044 Hastings: Hastings Honda 06 878 4152 Hawera: Action Suzuki 06 278 4160 Huntly: Huntly Honda 07 828 9687 Lower Hutt: Moto Mart 04 589 5106 TSS Motorcycles 04 569 3989 Masterton: Dave Anderson Limited 06 370 0033 Maungatoroto: Maungatoroto M/C Ltd 09 431 8555 Matamata: JD Motorcycles 07 888 4969 Phil’s Motorcycle Centre 07 888 7604 Morrinsville: Phil’s Motorcycle Centre 07 889 7686 Mount Maunganui: GP Motorcycles 07 574 6688 Moto GB 07 574 0146 Napier: Ericksen Honda 06 836 6298 Pro Cycle Ltd 06 842 0915 Five Star Suzuki 06 842 0010 New Plymouth: Energy Honda 06 757 3612 Mach 1 Yamaha 06 757 9747 New Plymouth M/C Centre 06 758 4449 North West KTM 06 759 9059 Perfromance Factory 06 756 6117 Otorohanga: Bike Torque 07 873 8196 Otorohonda 07 873 7273 Opunake: Triple Fourensics 06 761 8289 Paeroa: Whyteline 07 862 8783 Palmerston North: AFCM Motorcycles 06 357 8043 Anza Parts & Accessories 06 358 7082 Freedom Suzuki 06 356 5317 Pahiatua: Simon’s Motorcycle Repairs 06 376 8288 Tony Jury Motorcycles 06 376 7163 Paraparaumu: Bike Clinic 04 298 6419 Twin Cam Motor Cycles 04 298 3556 Pukekohe: Mr Motorcycles 09 238 3176 Putaruru: Peter Glidden Motorcycles 07 883 3310 Phil’s Motorcycle Centre 07 883 7602 Rotorua: Bike Force 07 348 9171 Patterson O’Connor M/C’s 07 345 5654 Rowlinson Honda 07 348 4100 Shannon: Shield Motor Repairs 06 362 7347 Stratford: Cooks Honda 06 765 8028 Taihape: Taihape Honda 06 388 1211

Taumarunui: Bike Torque 07 895 7994 Taupo: Promoto 07 378 2453 Daryll August Motorcycles 07 378 8342 Tauranga: Bayride Motorcycles 07 571 3040 Coastline Honda 07 578 5550 Makz Gear 07 571 1161 Smiths Motorcycles Ltd 07 578 6062 Te Aroha: Te Aroha M/C Centre 07 884 8044 Te Awamutu: Peter Glidden Motorcycles 07 871 7317 Thames: Wheels of Thames 07 868 9363 Tokoroa: Craig Stevens Motorcycles 07 889 1014 Upper Hutt: Maidstone M/C Centre 04 528 9395 Waipukarua: Five Star Suzuki 06 858 8983 Wanganui: Joe Lett Motorcycles 06 345 8599 Warkworth: Warkworth Motorcycles 09 425 8535 Wellington: Harley Speed and Custom 04 239 9272 Motorad 04 382 8011 Richards M/C Services 04 477 2322 Wellington Motorcycles 04 384 4149 Whakatane: Bay Honda 07 307 0502 Moto SR Ltd 07 308 0310 Tony Rees Motorcycles 07 307 1050 Underwood & Wilkins 07 308 6166 Whangarei: Maunder Suzuki 09 430 3097 Shaw Motorcycles 09 438 1183 Whangarei Yamaha 09 438 0804 Whitianga: Coastal Tyres 07 866 2310 SOUTH ISLAND STOCKISTS Alexandra: Davidson Honda Centre 03 448 6374 Two Wheels Unlimited 03 448 6207 Amberley: Arthur Burke Limited 03 314 8121 Ashburton: Honda Country 03 308 2030 Jeff Marshall Motorcycles 03 308 2055 Balclutha: Balclutha Motocycles Ltd 03 418 0626 Powerzone Suzuki 03 418 4672 Blenheim: Peter Grinter Motorcycles 03 578 1213 Nelson Marlborough Trials Cnt 03 579 2500 Christchurch: Budget Motorcycle Spares 03 377 1881 Pitlane Motorcycles 03 379 7382 Superior Motorcycles 03 366 7793 Te Waipounanu M/C’s 03 372 3537 Tracktion 03 374 3502 Trevor Pierce Motorcycles 03 366 6563 Greymouth: Honda Farm & Trail Road 03 768 9922 Dunedin: McIver & Veitch 03 477 0236 SPV Kawasaki 03 474 1920 Gore: Ewan Allan Honda 03 208 0174 Murray Kawasaki 03 208 6653 Invercargill: Moto South Ltd 03 214 4482 Kaiapoi: Kaiapoi Exhausts, Parts & Performance 03 377 1881 Methven: Spring Lynne Motorcycles 03 302 4939 Motueka: Murray Thorn Motorcycles 03 528 9992 Nelson: Filco Farm & Sport 03 547 2420 Morley Motorcycle & Marine03 544 8703 Nelson Motorcycle Centre 03 548 3786 Oamaru: Young Motors 03 434 5354 Picton: Picton Tools & Tyres 03 573 5413 Tapanui: Dwains Service Centre 03 204 8455 Timaru: Mike Gould Motocycles 03 688 4802 Southern Motorcycle World 03 688 4225 Winton: Brent Scammell Honda 03 236 7993

Adventures. Greg at campout@ poweradventures.co.nz. Pre registration only, go to www.hondakidsclub.co.nz for a registration form.

- 14, Flemington School Tail Ride, at 206 Ngawaka Road, central Hawkes Bay, sign in 8am, briefing 9.45, start time 10am, classes 70cc bikes up, 2 & 4 wheelers. Glyn Paterson 06 3741533 or raikatea@xtra.co.nz.

Pre register for hangi lunch.

- 14, Rangiwahia School Trail Ride, at Rangiwahia Domain, from Kimbolton travel north to Rangiwahia village approx 20 kms, from SH1 follow signs from just north of Mangaweka or just north of Ohingaiti, sign In starts 9am, riders briefing 10am, start time 10.15. Trail bike riders.

Children’s course provided. Mostly hill riding. Contact Sheldon 06 3282883 or sg.njmartin@farmside. co.nz or Rangiwahia School 06 3282821 or rangiwahia.school@ Inspire.net.nz. BBQ lunch Included, supervised children’s course provided, parents/guardians to be present.

- 15/18,Yamaha Taupo Central Trail Ride, new terrain and the best riding the Central North Island has on offer. From ISDE plantation forest trails, volcanic mountain trails, lakeside tracks, lush green farm properties. Full guided trail ride. Lead rider will set pace, and our sweep riders will follow at the rear. This is a top shelf, multi day experience with at least 180 kms riding each day, plus lodge accommodation and all meals to high standard. Knobbly tyres, well prepared, you need to carry basic tools and spares. We transport your luggage and spares.

Lodge accommodation with all meals. Includes: 4 full days riding.

5 night’s accommodation in lodges or motels. All meals. Land access fees. All fuel for your bike. Cost: $1950 per rider. Complete booking form and indemnity and send with deposit of $500 or full amount to Britton Motorcycle Adventures.

Contact Mike on 07 8556132 or 02128490 or email mike@adventurerides.co.nz - 21, Raglan Motorcycle Club Trail Ride, Sheas Property, Shea Rd, Raglan,(keep driving on road past Bridal Veil Falls) sign on and start from 8.30, adults $35, 12yrs to 15yrs $25, under 12yrs $10, main tracks approx 20kms with half loop options. Suitable for 2 and 4 wheelers. Kids track at each venue. Free sausage sizzle for all riders. All rides will be MNZ permitted and MNZ rules apply. All children must be supervised, must wear long sleeve shirt and long pants, and helmets in good condition compulsory. No trainers, no sneakers, no slip on shoes. Riders of farm ATV must be over 16. No pillions. No dogs. No tear-offs. All rides signposted from the Hamilton/Raglan Rd, SH 23.

Further enquiries phone Rob 0274969063 or Grant 07 8255090 or Elwyn 0274521921.

- 21, KTM Summer Trail Ride Series, Day Ride, starts 9am, in Riverhead

EVENTS Forest, signposted from Allely House SH16, Enquiries Tjebbe 09 480 9408 or Bill Mancer 09 479 5319 (Waitemata Motorcycle Club) - 21, Mt Biggs School Fundraising Trail Ride, at Mt Biggs School, Sandon Rd, Fielding. Sign posted from Sandon Rd turnoff, SH3, and Halcombe. Ride starts at the school.

Sign in 9am, briefing 10am, start time 10.30. Suitable for 2 and 4 wheeled bikes, not Kawasaki Mules.

Family based ride. Supervised kids track available. Contact Russell Vickery or Cary Davis. $25 per rider, $15 for kids track. Great lunch included. No passengers on any bikes.

- 23, Bugger the Boss; let’s go riding Twilight Trail Ride, at Maramarua Forest. Signposted from Kopuku Rd on SH2 between Maramarua Golf Club and the Red Fox Tavern. Start 13.00. Huntly Honda says motorcycles and quads welcome as well as side x sides. Free gourmet burger and can of soft drink. Extra burgers and drinks can be purchased too.

Cost: $40 Phone 0274454429 for info, or email greg@poweradventures.co.nz ADULTS only - 28, MR Motorcycles Trail Ride Series, Waikaretu Beach Run. Signposted from Mercer and Rangiriri Bridges.

Starts at Waikaretu Hall. No kids loop. Fuel and lunch truck provided.

Sign on from 8.30, ride starts 9.45.

Adult rider $30. Family concessions $70. Enquiries 09 2373095 or scott@motorcycles.co.nz, Craig 0274581544 or www.mrmotorcycles.co.nz

TRAINING DAYS Scooter Training at Auckland Kart Track, Avondale, sessions coming up over the next few months, $99 incl training, lunch and the loan of a scooter and gear if you don’t have your own.

Contact dione@triumphnz.co.nz for details or see www.euroscooter.co.nz Ride Right Ride Safe training days at Whenuapai Air Base, Brighams Creek Road, Whenuapai third Sunday of every month except February and December.

Suitable for initial or refresher training.

Cost $50. Registration form www.rrrs. org.nz or contact Finn Nielsen 09 625 5533 or 0274 846 326: 21 March, 18 April, 16 May, 20 June, 18 July, 15 Aug, 19 Sept, 17 Oct, 21 Nov California Superbike School training days:Thurs 11 Mar, Fri 12 March One full day is one level, and you can do one day or two. All levels on all dates, so please ring Darren 09 412 6266 to confirm your place. This is for anyone who rides a motorcycle, from commuters right through to GP champions.

Book early to avoid disappointment.

CLUB SECRETARIES: If you want your event listed here FREE, please fax the details to KR EVENTS, (09) 416-5308 or email admin@ kiwirider.co.nz

KIWI RIDER 165

BIKE TYRES

WE MOVE MOTORCYCLES

DPC

257 Great South Rd, Drury 09 294 7955 or 021 225 2142

Ease of location Just a stones throw from the motorway

Expert Advice Mike and Trev know their bikes and both ride

Easy to deal with Ride in and ride out

WE SPECIALISE IN DPC C

NORTH & SOUTH ISLAND! Scheduled Delivery Dates Skilled and experienced staff Regular and reliable Fast and effective Trusted by the motorcycle trade Motorcycle Movers as the name suggests do just one thing – we move motorcycles. Our specially modified vehicles allow us to offer a door to door, roll-on and roll-off service of the highest level.

The reputation we have gained has been built on providing an extremely high quality service to all of our customers.

All our staff are trained and have many years experience in both transportation and motorcycles.

CALL FOR A FREE QUOTE: 0800 687 583

FREE F R NAXA HELMET WITH H EVERY ZENITH JACKET PURCHASED AT $280 offer vaild while stocks last

BOSS

ENGINEERING SERVICES

Motorcycle Movers PO Box 11, Tirau Telephone: 07 8831 289 info@motorcyclemovers.co.nz

MOTORCYCLE CHASSIS SPECIALISTS

Clip-ons • Skid knobs Rear sets • Axle sliders Risers • Lowering kits Post classic brake rotors

• Cylinder Resleeving • Cylinder Reboring • Shock Rebuilds • All Head Work • Crank & Engine Rebuilds for all jet skis • Gear Dogs Build Up & Undercutting 196 Taupo Quay, Wanganui, New Zealand Phone: (06) 348 9516 Fax: (06) 348 9517 Email: bossengservices@xtra.co.nz 166 KIWI RIDER

Touchbike chassis alignment checks Bike Bench frame straightening Fork & brake rotor straightening Brake rotor reconditioning Aluminium and magnesium TIG welding Full machine shop F1 ENGINEERING MOTORCYCLE WORKS 2/59 Vickery St, Te Rapa, Hamilton. Ph 07 849 6110 Steve@rapidartnz.com • www.rapidartnz.com

SERVICES

Sound, looks and performance from the original

TAUPO WOF & WORKSHOP

Motorcycle Exhaust Specialists

We do mechanical repairs, servicing and WOFs

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1 Miro Street, Taupo 07 3772535 • 027 2412775 wotcycles@xtra.co.nz

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Private Bag 55004, Christchurch. Phone/Fax 03 315 7988

www.MotorcycleExhausts.co.nz

$ CASH PAID $ LEATHER BIKE JACKETS & PANTS

Darrin Wilsons Hotsuits, 107 Ikanui Road, Hastings.

Ph 06 876 2710 email hotsuits@xtra.co.nz

Exhausts If you want it we can make it.

LARGE SELECTION OF NEW & USED LEATHERS TRADE INS WELCOME

Custom Chambers 25 years plus making motorcycle exhausts. 30A Kerwyn Ave, East Tamaki. Ph 09 2741155.

ARMY & LEATHER SHOP 257 Onehunga Mall Road Auckland PH 09 636 5296

The Budget Shop

Trail Bike Specialists

Ywari Bike Park BOP / Matata / Pokerekere Rd Bush, open farmland, all levels.

Expert or novice. We can help you get the best out of your machine.

Dirt Action Service Centre 29 Saxon Street, Christchurch.

03 389 0080

FITNESS TRAINING FOR THE SERIOUS RACER

www.racepacetrainers.co.nz Telephone 021 348 244

Off road suspension service and tuning.

Race Tech Service Centre.

Race Tech Gold Valves, springs & parts.

Hi performance Synergy Seals.

• Suspension tuning.

• 2 stroke tuning • Bash Plates • Stall prevention • Bush Bars

Sundays Jan 24, Feb 28, Mar 28, Easter / Twilight rides every Weds / Tel 07 3222 444

EMBROIDERED STRAPS: Set (front & rear) $45/set. Rear only $25/strap.

PLAIN BLACK STRAPS: Set (front & rear) $35/set. Rear only $18/strap.

FREE POSTAGE WITHIN NEW ZEALAND Ph: 09 483 9248 Mob: 021 519 005 nzgrabit@xtra.co.nz www.grabitnz.com

0800 P i t T e n t s .com

‘Zorsts’ tuneable Sports Silencers and Replica Silencers in stainless & vintage & off-road Harris pipes licenced manufacturuers

W.O.T. MOTORCYCLES

GRAB-IT DIRT BIKE GRAB STRAPS

PIT TENTS Three sizes, any colour/s you want, made from PVC, can be signwritten. from around $800-$1,700 incl poles, pegs, carry bag, ropes, delivery & gst

ESTABLISHED 1976

Ph 09 832 0153 greg@proride.co.nz www.proride.co.nz

Brian Meadowcroft Tel 07 826 6871

Aluminium Arched Loading Ramps

ATV CHASSIS PARTS FRAME SECTIONS TRX300 2 & 4WD, TRX 400, TRX350 from $400

IDEAL FOR ATVS & RIDE ON MOWERS Straight ramps $273. Folding ramps $450. Cargo carriers $478/set. All + freight.

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Length 1.9m & 2.2m 460kg per pair capacity Folding ramps length 2.3m & 680kg per/pair Cargo carrier, box section tow hitch required

TRIKES R US Cambridge PH 07 827 2025 or 027 278 3865 Built to order.

We can trike your bike: Goldwing, Harleys, Suzukis...

We also do chains, sprockets & repairs

HIGHLINE EQUIPMENT LTD Alexandra Ph 03 448 9369 Fax 03 448 6144 Email highlineequip@xtra.co.nz www.highline.co.nz

A-ARMS (exchange)—TRX300 2& 4WD Upper & Lower, TRX400 Lower, TRX 350 Lower, TRX 450 Lower from $117 All prices include GST, Courier bag supplied for return of exchange A-Arm. BARNEY BUILT Ph 07 829 9999 Mobile 0274 828 045

STOP THE WIND NOISE Certified Grade 5, custom made earplugs, made on the spot at: Paeroa Feb 21 Mystery Creek Mar 13/14 Hampton Downs Mar 27/28 Ham V8s Apr 17/18 Fieldays June 16/19 Speedshow Akld Jul 24/25 Sue Rowles Ph (07)3480 908 027 659 1583

WE MOVE MOTORCYCLES “Motomuck cleaner takes the Grammy award for moto cleaner of the decade”

Mike Old has the answers 53 Grove Road, Blenheim.

Ph 03 579 2500 Mob 027 230 3151 montesa@trialsnz.co.nz www.trialsnz.com

Agents for GasGas Husqvarna Scorpa Montesa Aeon Cam-Am

NZ’s only full time trials shop

MOTORCYCLE SPECIALIST 300m east of Drury offramp 257 Gt South Road Drury Ph: 09 294 7955 email: DPC@maxnet.co.nz txt: 021 225 2142

Ollie Sharp-Pro MXer

RRP 500ml $9 / 2 litre $19 5 litre $39 / 25 litre $156 Save time-Save money Dealer Enquiries Welcome Dealers/Orders contact: Hylton 09 440 9099 hiltron@xnet.co.nz, www.motomuck.co.nz

NORTH & SOUTH ISLAND!

Scheduled Dates • Skilled & experienced staff Regular and reliable • Fast and effective Trusted by the motorcycle trade Call for a free quote: 0800 687 583 or 07 8831289 info@motorcyclemovers.co.nz KIWI RIDER 167

K4

RRP: $449.00 COLOUR: Gecko, Red, Blue, Green, Solid White, Solid Silver, Solid Black

K-3 ROSSI

RRP: $399.00 COLOUR: Sword, Celebr-8, Black Gothic

K-3B EVIL

RRP: $249.00 COLOUR: Red/Silver/Gun, Blue/Silver/Gun, Black/Silver/Gun, Solid Black

GP-TECH

RRP: From $1299 - $1399 COLOUR: Simoncelli, 5 Continents, Valentino Face, Solid Black

www.agv.it

168 KIWI RIDER

www.nwa.co.nz

Tsubakimoto Chain co, Japan is the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest producer of chains and power transmission systems. We offer an outstanding motorcycle chains, speciďŹ cally developed to meet the needs of motorcycle rider, ranging from Moped to Super Bike, including Motocross and ATV with Racing chains for competition use as well.

TSUBAKI, chains with in-built Japanese reliability.

Welcome to a new world of V-Twin performance tires. Where Performance is inspired by passion, & delivered with sleek perfection.

In this new world, hard launches begin incredible journeys which are no longer elusive... Now that a Dragon prowls the night. www.pirelli-moto.com www.nwa.co.nz