South East Biker, Issue 33, June-July 2014

o.1 The South East’s N ine FREE bike magaz

2014 Issue 33: June-July

SUPPLEMENT

INSIDE

#13

LUCKY FOR SOME 3 BEEMERS TESTED

ADVENTURE YOUR MAKER T E E M TRAVEL FILM S T O O B G R E B T L A FESTIWVSAL• FEATURES • EVENTS • SPORTS REVIE

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STARTING GRID

CONTENTS 4 New Bavarian Beasts 10 What To Pack For A Touring Holiday 12 Water Off A Duck’s Back 14 Old And Deaf 16 A Man With A Mission Part 2 18 The Adventure Travel Film Festival 21 Bexhill Motofest Supplement 26 Behind The Scenes At Serv 28 No Nonsense Boots 30 Track Season Fitness 34 No 13 Unlucky For Some 36 Talan Back On Track

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South East Biker (SEB) Magazine is delivered to selected motorcycle outlets and businesses across Sussex, Surrey, Kent, London, Essex, Middlesex, Berkshire, Hampshire and Dorset. Please see website for current distribution points.

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www.southeastbiker.co.uk MAKING CONTACT

ADVERTISING Debbie Tunstill & GENERAL Tel: 01892 610808 ENQUIRIES: Email: debs@southeastbiker.co.uk

South East Biker, Wirral Acre, Eridge Road, Crowborough, East Sussex. TN6 2SP EDITOR & PUBLISHER: Nick Tunstill, email: nick@southeastbiker.co.uk PRODUCTION: Dean Cook, email: deancook@magazineproduction.com PRINTING: Evon Print, Henfield, Sussex © 2014 South East Biker (SEB) Magazine is an independent title and does not endorse the products or services that appear in the magazine. Opinions expressed in the magazine do not necessarily represent those of the editor or of South East Biker magazine. Reproduction of content is strictly prohibited without prior written approval from the editor or publisher.

COVER IMAGE: Rob Guiver photo by Nigel Martin

South East Biker Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk

The motorbike season kicked off in style this year in Hastings at the annual biker pilgrimage known as the May Day Run. With over 40,000 bikes and 96,000 people in the town and the sun shining, the event was a great success and is attracting a bigger audience every year. With the news that motorbike sales are up 15% on this time last year and the economy improving, there is cause for some long overdue optimism. Our stand on the seafront was buzzing and it was fantastic to chat to many readers during the day and pick up lots of feedback.

We hope to get along to as many events over this summer as possible so look forward to seeing many of you there. Check out the events page and the website for what’s going on. See us at Freestyle on July 5th, Viking Motorcycle Seats on July 6th and at the new Bexhill Motofest on July 27th. Plus whatever else we can fit in.

Issue 33 is rammed with some fantastic articles covering all things bike.

Our mate Rob Guiver took the top spot at Brands Hatch with us cheering him on.

We get to grips with three of the new BMWs, Pete Mills updates us on his charity ride, Talan Skeels-Piggins of The Bike Experience tackles Brands and a deaf old man tries out the Ultimate ear protection.

We take a look at what SERV controllers get up to while the other volunteers are whizzing around on their bikes. If you are planning some track days this summer, check out Simon Thorne’s fitness tips and get the best from your day. Fancy a bike related weekend away? Why not visit Sam Manicom’s Horizons Unlimited HUBB gathering at Donnington or Austin Vince’s Adventure Travel Film Festival?

In fact you can win a pair of tickets to Austin’s shindig if you enter our competition.

All the best Nick

south east biker magazine @southeastbiker 3

REVIEW: BMW’S R 1200 GS ADVENTURE, R 1200RT, S 1000R

NEW BAVARIAN BEASTS

Nick & Debbie Tunstill with Les Smith review not one, but three recently launched BMW machines: R 1200 GS Adventure; R 1200 RT; and the S 1000 R

N

ow Les has a certain amount of biking experience, having been trained in the army, a police motorcyclist for 25 years and a long serving member of the Kent BikeSafe team. He knows his onions, as they say…

BMW R 1200 GS ADVENTURER: WHITE, GREEN OR BLUE?

BY LES SMITH My first view of the new GS-A was at the ExCel Motorcycle show earlier this year, well I say view, I mean glimpse. It was difficult to see through the seven bloke deep crowd, that seemed to hover around the bike all day – it was like 4

the fan club had employed a corps of GS bodyguards to keep away the KTM riders.

To say that the bike was popular does not do the hype justice; I heard from a local dealer that their allocation was already sold out a month before the bike’s release date in mid-March. This was pending a test ride but I would put money on there being very little chance of a customer turning the bike down.

So is all the fuss justified? I’ve only ridden the GS-A for a few hours but I think it possibly is.

I have ridden the previous model GS-A a number of times over the last two years and have witnessed at first-hand how good they are

on- and off-road. I was with a pal of mine crossing the Spanish Pyrenees two years ago and we went across some real adventure terrain, so I know that a well ridden GS-A can do more than you might think.

The BMW GS’s have always had considerable bulk. The previous model was not that fast and it didn’t handle terrifically well if pushed too hard on road. For a machine of this size, it’s not a bad bike but as a rider you were able to feel the old bikes weight at high speed and a little understeer crept in too on occasion, if pushed hard in the corners. Other than that I would say the bike was a great allrounder road bike / tourer, not just an adventure bike.

With the 2014 BMW R 1200 GS-A I think the design team have addressed the power, the bike has

June-July 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

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Cooper Tunbridge Wells Longfield Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3UE 01892 628134 www.coopermotorradtunbridgewells.co.uk 1. Advertised APR available on a BMW Select agreement for new BMW S 1000 RR Sport models ordered at participating BMW dealers between 1 April and 30 September 2014 and registered by 30 September 2014 (subject to availability). Retail customers only. Finance available subject to credit acceptance to UK residents aged 18 or over. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Terms and conditions apply. Offer may be varied, withdrawn or extended at any time. 2. Advertised APR and deposit contribution available on a 36 month BMW Select agreement for new BMW S 1000 RR Sport models ordered between 1 April and 30 September 2014 and registered by 30 September 2014 (subject to availability). Retail customers only. Finance available subject to credit acceptance to UK residents aged 18 or over. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Terms and conditions apply. Offer may be varied, withdrawn or extended at any time. 3. Offer available to retail customers of new BMW S 1000 RR Sport models, subject to availability or until stocks last. Offer applicable in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland. To qualify, the motorcycle must be bought and registered between the dates of 1 March and 30 September 2014 and purchased through an official BMW Motorrad UK dealership. BMW Motorrad UK reserves the right to substitute alternative accessories of an equivalent value. The £1,546.22 value of BMW Accessories is the 2014 recommended retail price (RRP) including VAT. The offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotional offers, nor can it be exchanged for cash. Accessory fitting costs may apply at the discretion of the supplying BMW Motorrad dealer. 4.Offer available to retail customers of new BMW R 1200 R motorbikes, including Classic and Dark White special editions, until 30 September 2014. Subject to availability or until stocks last. Offer applicable in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland. To qualify, the motorcycle must be bought and registered between the dates of 1 May and 30 September 2014 and purchased through an official BMW Motorrad UK dealership. BMW Motorrad UK reserves the right to substitute alternative accessories of an equivalent value. The £1,419.20 value of BMW Accessories is the 2014 recommended retail price (RRP) including VAT. The offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotional offers, nor can it be exchanged for cash. Accessory fitting costs may apply at the discretion of the supplying BMW Motorrad dealer. †Test ride is subject to applicant status and availability.

REVIEW: BMW’S R 1200 GS ADVENTURE, R 1200RT, S 1000R a fair bit more, they have looked at the steering too, the steeper head angle, plus steering damper give the bike a more road bike feel and the reluctance to turn in at speed has gone. The designers have also addressed the bulk; it sits on the road at 265kgs, but on the move the size is not obvious, it feels much lighter than the specification would suggest. The GS-A is also very well balanced – don’t get me wrong, if the bike fell over I would suggest the rider needs to know what they are doing or ask for help before hoisting the bike up-right, but the bike rides like it’s 100kgs lighter. It turns well at slow speeds too and with the smooth engine pushing through the new wet clutch I was able to perform a 360” turn on full lock almost straight away, such is the poise of this large BMW. Unfortunately, my test ride was on a very wet April day. However, while riding on Kent and Sussex roads (in the pouring rain) the GS-A was kind enough to allow me a good look-see into its personality.

This is a very easy bike to ride, I’m about 6 ft so have no issues with the height, however, I do understand that its physical size may put people off. I would encourage any rider who thinks the bike too big to have a look. The engineers at BMW have slimmed the bike down so as to make it easier to sit astride the bike. The more road orientated version is better as it sits 20mm lower but don’t be put off having a look at the GS-A, it’s the sort of bike a rider has to try for size, it’s deceptive.

I am a bit of a twin engine fan, flat twin, v or parallel, I like the way these engines produce drive and in turn grip. This new BMW boxer (water-cooled) is bloody good.

The new GS is a good lump of engine but, having ridden this new GS-A, I was keen to see how the larger crank affected the drive if it affected it at all. So I gave the bike 6

a bit of a squeeze on a quiet A road and I was impressed with the drive and acceleration, for a big bike with a twin motor is goes well. I am no engine expert but the GS-A feels so much smoother and supple than the old twin cam boxer.

I do know that the new water cooled boxer lump has more to give in terms of power as I have seen dyno reports of tuned engines coming close to 140bhp. The claimed 125bhp in standard trim is certainly about right, and riders will feel the better drive from the new engine together with the smoother acceleration from the heavier cranked GS-A motor. Riding any motorcycle in horrendous rain soaked conditions is not easy, but I have to say that the grip and feel from the new GS-A in these conditions was really good and therefore my confidence in the bike grew as the ride went on. The test bike was fitted with 2300mile old Michelin Anakee 3’s (new 120/19Front 170/17Rear) tyre sizes help-with road feel. This New GS-A is a large motorcycle and there is no getting away from it but riding some twisty slippery roads was actually a pleasure and I could have ridden on all day if it hadn’t been for my neck-warmer pretending in was a water catchment area.

I didn’t really get to use the rider modes really, there are many, (see list for details) I didn’t use the cruise control either. I’ve never been a fan of handing control over to the bike so I’ll hold the go switch thank you.

I travelled along for the duration of my test ride in “Dynamic” power mode with the big GS-A on a “soft” suspension setting which really worked well in the wet. I have used a Suzuki GSX-R 1000 K8 on a number of occasions and never used anything other than standard full power setting, why would you? I’m not against the techno stuff, in fact I love the ESA, (electronic suspension adjustment) and being able to set the preload and damping to suit the riding style or load is great, but as for power modes, I’m not convinced. With the rain continuing all day the test was in danger of becoming a chore, lower speeds and more sedate pace did give me more thinking time to consider the bike’s other attributes.

This GS-A model is no different to other bikes in the BMW range in that it is super comfy, the screen works really well. The heated grips are fab and the engine is super smooth and I remember thinking during the test that the bike ought to be very economical. Well, I was right – it is very good on fuel, I travelled for two hours on gentle throttle use and steady progress, and the bike’s fuel range read-out hardly ever changed. It read 275 miles to empty when I set off and it said 265 miles to empty when I took the bike back, I put a fiver in and covered about 70 miles, so I reckon about 60mph’ish, which is not bad.

On the whole I got on very well

June-July 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

REVIEW: BMW’S R 1200 GS ADVENTURE, R 1200RT, S 1000R with the bike. I like it. I didn’t take it off road, as the test was a road evaluation. I could feel that with care the bike should be just as good off road as its predecessor.

Did I find any flaws? Well not really flaws but there are a few niggles, the dinky little cubby hole on top of the Tank is neither useful nor ornament. The idea is great but the execution is not, it is meant to be for things like a little cash for tolls and perhaps the rider’s wallet.

All I will say is that it is not a very big space.

Overall the 2014 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure is a cracking bit of kit. If you asked me ‘would I buy one?’ I might, I liked it a lot.

Is it a good evolution of the Older GS-A? Yes it is, It may have lost some of the old bikes utilitarian feel and rugged good looks but the new bike is rugged in a more sophisticated way.

The new bike is a little more refined, it’s a bit quicker, it handles better and is better equipped. And for those riders who appreciate it there is a lot of techno-gizmo going on too.

In real terms, it’s not that much more expensive than the standard GS either. Well done BMW! The on-the-road price is £12,600 in standard spec, which includes switchable ABS, centre stand, two riding modes and Automatic Stability Control. There are too many extras to list, but I would doubt any 2 GS Adventures are the same, looking at the permutations!

Type: Air/Liquid-cooled four stroke flat twin engine, double overhead camshaft, one balance shaft; Bore x stroke: 101 mm x 73 mm; Capacity 1,170 cc; Rated output: 125 hp at 7,750 rpm; Max. torque: 126 Nm at 6,500 rpm; Mixture control / engine management; Electronic intake pipe injection; Emission control: Closed-loop 3-way catalytic converter, emission standard EU-3

BMW R 1200 RT

BY NICK TUNSTILL he famous German motorcycle manufacturer BMW can seem to do little wrong these days judging by the mobbing of their stand at the Excel Motorcycle Show in February. The GS range has a loyal following and came along at exactly the right time as interest in long distance travelling by bike really took off. BMW have always been at the forefront of the motorbike touring experience. They have a well earned reputation for solid, reliable big motorcycles that will eat up the miles in comfort with ease.

So I jumped at the chance to try out the new R 1200 RT when Coopers of Tunbridge Wells kindly offered me the opportunity. It’s certainly not the sort of motorbike I would normally select. Most of my journeys are relatively short and I am hopping on and of the bike frequently, even the Tiger can be a bit cumbersome at times.

T

South East Biker Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk

Now I personally have never found BMW machines much to drool over, until the S 1000 RR came along, which is a fantastic looking bit of kit. Since then the range of the German giants has become a lot more stylized, with the new R nine T being a real head turner.

Unfortunately this leaves the R 1200 RT a bit out in the cold in the looks department. I do think the choice of colours lacks a bit of inspiration as well, Quartz Blue Metallic, Callisto Grey Matt Metallic and Ebony Metallic, all a bit bland.

Anyway, that’s not really the point of a bike like this, it’s not for posing and showing off, it’s for riding…a long way…in comfort.

I was smugly pleased with my choice of steed for the day as it was absolutely belting it down and I had loads of weather protection and heated everything!

Tony ran through the controls and I almost understood some of them, so that was a positive start.

As with many large bikes these days, once moving, even at walking pace, they are so well balanced that 7

REVIEW: BMW’S R 1200 GS ADVENTURE, R 1200RT, S 1000R at, a bit vibey at low revs, very little to complain about!

The standard model starts around at £13,200 but can go up to over £15,000 when specced up.

The R 1200 RT comes with two riding modes, traction control, electric screen and ABS as standard.

Semi-active suspension, hill start, gear shift assist are extra.

USEFUL INFO

BMW R 1200RT

weight really isn’t an issue. As long as you can comfortably reach the ground, you won’t notice the 274kg unladen beast beneath you. BMW score really highly on making their machines accessible to all. The seat height is adjustable and, with an optional low or high seat, the bike can actually be anything between 760mm and 850mm, now that is impressive and clever.

The R 1200 T boasts many rider friendly features to set it just right; electrically adjustable windshield, heated grips with variable heat selection, adjustable suspension that can be set manually or automatically and rain or road riding modes. Oh and it also has a radio option, which you can actually hear. This was the first time I have ridden a bike with this feature, I did get confused when the display showing HEAT turned out to be the radio station I was tuned into and not the heated grips being on! Thanks Debbie for pointing that out…

On the road at low speed I found the big Beemer a little vibey, I guess this is down to the engine layout.

But once you pick up a sensible pace, the R 1200 T is a pleasure to ride. Engine, performance and comfort are all excellent. Don’t bother with Rain mode, that went off straight away.

Despite appalling weather, crap roads and plenty of traffic, the BMW was a fun to ride. The low mirrors 8

double up nicely as hand guards and I was relatively dry when we arrived back. Unfortunately this does slightly impair their main job of providing good rear vision as I seemed to have rather a lot of my shoulders in view.

When we managed to find some decent, quieter A roads, the 1200 pushed along nicely. It’s not an out and out fast tourer, but there’s plenty of grunt in the new 125bhp engine to see off any four wheeled opposition. The police don’t use them for nothing.

If you are after a well specced tourer that will take you around Europe two up at speed and in comfort, this could be just the bike. It’s big enough to do the job without being cumbersome. The balance of the superb suspension, comfort, brakes and engine performance is spot on. I suspect most will plump for the top of the range version with extra features such as Pro gearshift assist and central locking. The costs of the optional extras soon add up, but if this is a bike to base a few years’ two up touring holidays on, that initial investments will soon be forgotten.

Pros: A super comfy tourer with excellent weather protection and a host of standard and optional features to tailor the bike to your needs. It’s a touring bike and ticks all the boxes required.

Cons: A bit unremarkable to look

Engine size 1170 cc Power 124 bhp Top speed 145 mph Fuel Capacity 25 litres Tank Range 240 miles

BMW S 1000 R

BY DEBBIE TUNSTILL We could have picked a better day to test ride the new BMWs launched back in March, but the first Monday in April was the only day available. It turned out to be the wettest day that month but that did not stop myself, Nick and Les Smith really put the BMWs through their paces.

I didn’t have a lot of choice being vertically challenged, my poor little legs only reached the floor on the S 1000 R…shame! The BMW S 1000 R is the naked version of the sports bike so would it hold up to the high standard the sports bike had set?

First of all, the bike is quite pretty for a naked bike, BMW have really started to see that technical superiority is not the only important thing to people when buying a bike. Looking at the new models launched back in March, BMW have really thought about the aesthetics of the bikes. Little touches like anodised foot pegs, levers and new colour schemes also help to bring these bikes into new buyers’ minds. I am sure many riders that like Hondas or Yamahas would like this bike as it has similar styling to them.

The S 1000 R has a 999cc, four cylinder engine which comes in

June-July 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

REVIEW: BMW’S R 1200 GS ADVENTURE, R 1200RT, S 1000R three new colours and I had the red, which is a proper pillar box red. Coopers BMW in Tunbridge Wells showed us all the different settings you can have, plus the bike has a slipper clutch, ABS and traction control.

Normally, I am not a fan of too much technology on a bike: for one most people don’t use it to its fullest potential; and two there is more to go wrong and it costs a fortune to repair – BUT on this day, I loved the fact that the bike had traction control, the rain was coming down so hard we could just about see in front of us. We were soaked to the bone. We came out of a corner, I opened the throttle expecting it to argue with me but the rear tyre bit into the road and drove out of the corner with ease.

The S 1000 R can be dialled down and unleashed at the press of a button as standard. The ‘Rain’ mode provides a gentle throttle response, with ABS and ASC adapted to wet road surfaces which is what I was using.

Meanwhile ‘Road’ mode optimises throttle response, ABS and ASC for dry asphalt. The ‘Pro’ modes are available as an optional extra for those chasing the threshold range: ‘Dynamic’ and ‘Dynamic Pro’ get the ‘R’ into shape for the limits.

The main thing for me about this bike is that the riding position is up a little from the S 1000 RR, but it is not completely upright so feels more sporty than you would expect.

I really would suggest trying this bike out, it just may surprise you. It’s good looking and it is great fun to ride. I actually preferred this to the sports version, which is amazing for me. The S 1000 R is priced at £9,990 and is in group 17 for insurance.

Thank you to Cooper BMW of Tunbridge Wells for loaning us the bikes for the day, even if it pelted down all day.

For the ultimate Sports Bike or Touring Adventure, contact the only Bike Hire Company with a complete selection of quality machines…

South East Biker Superbike Rental Magazine HP 0613.indd• www.southeastbiker.co.uk 1

16/05/2013 15:319

TRAVEL INSURANCE

WHAT TO PACK FOR A TOURING HOLIDAY The hardest thing about planning a touring holiday is definitely packing, so we’ve compiled some top advice from our road trip experts to help you know what and how to pack.

country will have different rules about the kit you should have, for example, in France, motorists (including bikers) are required to carry a breathalyser kit. If you are camping, don’t forget a kick stand plate, there is nothing worse at the end of a long day than watching your bike fall over because your stand sank into the mud.

H

oliday packing is a nightmare in itself, but when you have extremely limited space to play with, planning a weeklong tour can be a minefield of school boy errors.

To help anyone trying to pack for a road trip, we asked our biking experts for their top tips.

the journey home.

Sometimes it pays to invest a little more in your kit, for example if you’re planning to camp, buy a specialist tent which will fold down to an extremely compact size. Also think about investing in travel electronics or gadgets which will serve multiple purposes.

BASICS Like any trip, the first thing to consider is where you are going and how long for — you will then be able to whittle down your luggage to the essentials. Will you need sun cream and flip flops or water proofs and heated gloves?

To save space, do you have anything that can serve a double purpose? Kevlar lined denim jeans offer great protection and don’t look out of place off the bike — saving the need to pack a second pair of jeans. Always roll your clothes, as this will save space. Never fill your luggage to capacity, always leave a small amount of space in case you buy souvenirs or need to stock up for

TOOLS As your holiday will rely on your bike, it is really important to pack some tools, just in case you need to carry out some road side maintenance. Multi Tools are readily available, and will prove priceless if you face a breakdown.

A puncture repair kit & CO2 canister will save a lot of heartache and get you back on the road if an errant nail finds your tyre. If you don’t have a puncture repair kit — you WILL get a puncture. It’s Murphy’s Law. Other useful tools you could pack include a satnav (or magnetic tank map pouch), torch or head lamp, spare bungee cords, and first aid kit. Remember, every

10

DOCUMENTS When travelling abroad you should always ensure you have international road and breakdown insurance (if at all possible). Again, the rules about documentation can vary between destinations, but to be safe you should carry your insurance certificate, driving licence and V5.

You should also carry a list of important phone numbers, a photo copy of your passport, and details of your travel insurance in case you need assistance.

TOP TIP Pack an empty carrier bag. If it starts to rain and you want to get your waterproofs on quickly, you will really struggle to get them past your wet boots. Putting a carrier bag over your boot will enable a quick change!

For more information about specialist UK, European or Worldwide Motorcycle Touring Insurance which will protect you, your trip and your luggage against a holiday disaster, visit www.Holidaysafe.co.uk/SEB or call 0845 2307 622.

June-July 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

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Water off a duck’s back I

Debbie Tunstill uses a new product, Ducks Wax, launched by a Somerset-based company to help protect leather and wax products from the elements.

have used some of the other products on the market and they are good but they do have their downsides. One I tried has an awful after smell, another left the leather greasy to touch and another was slightly coloured so left a milky residue.

DucksWax is completely clear so can be used on any colour leather product. It has a slight lovely scent of citronella which contains insect repellent properties.

Applying to my motorcycle boots, DucksWax soaked in literally seconds, so it showed they needed it. After using it for the last few months, my boots are supple and feel less likely to crack. One thing people forget to do after your leather has been in the rain, is to be clean it off and re-proof it. As leather is a natural product it needs to still be able to breath as well as be fed.

Ducks Wax does this, it is not a thick cream so allows the leather to absorb the cream in but at the same time it protects with a thin layer. It is like giving your boots a drink of water.

A 100ml pot and sponge costs ÂŁ9.95 which includes postage. We used one pot on three leather jackets, four pairs of motorcycle boots, two pairs of riding boots, a couple of leather handbags and many shoes. All of these had multiple treatments and look so much better. The only thing I found was when treating a pair of pale tan boots it did change the colour slightly, but both changed colour and still look the same so there was no problem.

I highly recommend this product, at the moment you can only order from the website direct but it is efficient and delivery was very quick.

DucksWax has a Facebook page for updates or offers or visit the website to orders yours today. www.duckswax.co.uk

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HEARING PROTECTION

OLD & DEAF

Yes Nick Tunstill admits it: not his words but his wife and children’s opinion…and he can’t dispute it!

T

oo many years of riding motorbikes and punk rock concerts have taken their toll. I have used ear plugs before…a bit. Mainly because I thought it was something I should do, rather than a choice. However I have only used cheap sponge ones that never fit properly and seem to fall out and drop into a puddle whenever I take my helmet off. Most of their life has been spent in the little containers they come in my jacket pocket rather then in my lugholes.

I did the excellent police BikeSafe course in October and they pointed out that consistent riding over 60mph damages the hearing irrepairably if not protected. Now, believe it or not, I do occasionally stray over that speed. And, even though my cure for deafness is to turn the stereo up louder, I realised that long term I may have an issue and, if I wanted to be able to appreciate The Clash in my 80’s, I may have to make an effort.

So, the London Motorcycle Show at Excel gave us the chance to wander around and look at was on offer, hearing protection wise. We came across Ultimate Ear Protection, a south east based company, who seemed pretty clued up.

14

They checked our ears to make sure they were suitable to have the impressions taken. Now this is very important, if you are at a show and they are prepared to take an impression without an inspection, walk away. You could end up with ear damage. Mine needed a second opinion (there’s a surprise!). Once cleared to take an impression, little sponges were put in the ears to determine the correct depth. The next stage was to have our ears filled with a material (it reminded me of bathroom sealent) to take the impression. The busy London Show went eerily (get it?) quiet. We weren’t allowed to talk for about ten minutes. This was an interesting challenge for Debbie and a lovely peaceful spell in my life for me.

After the impressions are hardened, they are removed and marked up. You chose your colours and that’s it. A few days later they arrive. We decided to pick ours up so we could chat to the Ultimate Ear Protection guys. So it was off to sunny Orpington one afternoon to have a chat and pick them up.

Motorcycling is just one of a large range of activities where ear protection is a good plan. The company is highly experienced in this field and all the products are made on site, so any issues at all will be addressed.

June-July 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

HEARING PROTECTION handy little pouch as well. Manufactured from medical A quick look at the client list on their website helps grade silicon, these babies are extremely comfortable to establish Ultimate Ear Protection’s pedigree; Ewan and simple to keep clean.

McGregor, Charley Boorman, The only issue I have is Nick Sanders, James Toseland, remembering to put them in, Neil Hodgson, Simon Pavey, old dogs, new tricks etc. I am Chris Waker, Steve Parrish, Randy halfway up the A21 thinking, Mamola and John Reynolds are it’s a bit noisey today, oh all clients. I suspect you may bugger… recognize one or two of those All in all, a great product, and characters! e very professional service.

We had a little run through We opted for the Squidgies at the fitting. They are a bit fiddly £59.00 plus p and p. Ultimate at first, but there is a knack to it Ear Protection offer products and, once you have grasped it, Nice impression Charley Boorman for use with Bluetooth sets and they fit like...er a glove. They are rider communication devices. colour coded so you aren’t trying to How much is your hearing worth to you? put them in the wrong ear! www.ultimateear.com or call: 01689 876885 Once they are in, and you are on the road, the difference is impressive.

FEATURES You can hear the important stuff, • Custom fit • Fully hygienic/cleanable other traffic, your loud can etc, but the incessant wind/ • Choice of colours • Small and lightweight helmet noise is noticeably diminished. The plugs are • Excellent noise reduction properties • Indicated left and right also much more comfortable than the off the peg ones.

• 2 year guarantee/warranty And the really great bit is that when I take my helmet SPECIFICATION off, they don’t fall out into a puddle. I still manage • Material: medical grade silicone to have a pair. If you do lose one, you still have the • Attenuation; 30dB impressions to get another made. The plugs come in a

Service • Repairs • Tyres Suspension Set-up MOTs by Appointment 17 Years Main Dealer Experience

Tel: 01825 766351, Mobile: 07710 784876 Email: info@everestmotorcycles.co.uk Visit: www.everestmotorcycles.co.uk Unit 3, Enterprise Centre, Bell Lane, Uckfield, East Sussex. TN22 1QL

WE HAVE MOVED

Unit 3, Enterprise Centre, Bell Lane, Uckfield, East Sussex,TN22 1QL. NEW TELEPHONE TOO:

01825 766351

Bring this advert with you and get a MOT for JUST £25!

Everest Motorcycles HP 0414.indd 1 South East Biker Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk

12/03/2014 13:32 15

AIMING FOR A GOAL

A MAN WITH A MISSION PART 2 Following on from the feature in the last issue, Pete Mills is aiming to complete the Sunset-2-Sunrise tour after having cancer treatment…

M

y riding number is 40 but the burning question is …have I gained enough weight to ride the sunset-2-sunrise tour on 21st June?

Honestly? It will be extremely close, but I’ve come back from severe illness before after being ‘written off’ by specialists. I was in a coma for 90 days with acute (necrotic) pancreatitis whilst in the USA for three years in 2001. We won’t go there about my other ailments… of diabetes, 32% kidney function, or the removal of my spleen, gall bladder plus 90% of my pancreas.

That’s a bit much, even though the bill was an eye watering $1.2 million. Good job I had insurance and I’m not a horse, otherwise I would have been shot!!!

The weight has finally increased by a stone after having a major wobble when I lost 6 weeks’ worth of gains. I have a barium meal x-ray session to understand why my oesophagus restricts food movement.

My sole aim is to be able to say, a simple, meaningful thank you by raising much needed money for the wonderful people of Macmillan Cancer Support who have been brilliant helping me through some of the darkest days.

1 in 3 of us will be affected by cancer. 2 million of us 16

Barry & Lesley Humm

are dealing with it right now and that figure is set to rise to 4 million by 2030.

Through Facebook, I have come into contact with many people who have been directly and indirectly affected by this indiscriminate disease. Barry Humm is one person in particular. We have a lot in common.

Barry has a similar type of cancer and is also an exservices member and biker too. By the time you read this he will be in recovery from six weeks of radical radiotherapy and chemotherapy. He and his wife Lesley are a lovely couple and they are showing great fighting spirit. I’m trying to help them wherever I can, as knowing the symptoms you face are normal, if you can call them that, helps remove some of the worry and apprehension during this dark time.

We’ve agreed that there’s a rideout or two around the Isle of Man next year with our names on it. That will be special for us both.

My pride and joy for this S-2-S tour is an Aprilia SL1000R 2005 Falco. She’s been fettled over the years with an RSVR swingarm, Sachs fully adjustable shock, Beowulf cans, alloy hangers, Oberon slave clutch, Power Commander III, custom map, MWR Induction, Venhill s/s braided lines, double bubble screen, R&G protection, LED indicators and dash repeaters, CNC June-July 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

AIMING FOR A GOAL nosa derrumquati dolorep sus doluptu ribus, nulpa voluptas ienimus iunt plabori oremque late nimi, debisto taturer spidust iorecus net, udant, optatem poreribus nobis ium quiaeped et qui volorer TM illuptatibus excepre periscia vel nullabo. Accus. natur, in cuptatectur sequam et mo cor rem consect uribus eos Ugitiis magnat. Hari nonsectorro anducia spereca eprovita pore rem exereiciunt volo beris estemol incto moles quias et periostota voluptatquid estior anti vendis HearingsiProtection Systems estibus re volest aut rehenisquae occum volupti osamus, consed exerum imagnatem. Giatiis sum cum quiantia illam ra voluptatiae. quidi ut ea ipidem dellendia vollab inisin custio es event.

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UtHave anditistrum estor aute qui berum labor events andniam fundraisers all for Macmillan. a look si doluptas di quodion emoluptio tem quis ra volore autwww.bikers4macmillan.org.uk. que vel eium re, at their site se Andy nimagnam as volore, que sit officitem laut eiursome si cusdae After receiving greatvent emails from acilibus. ium sequisq(their uidelli genist ra Ique Maddison, Chairman), signed uplaborerum last January.

Odi alicabo ribus, velis est del maximet litiis molupta tiumqui The guys have been very helpful and supportive dolore beat. to this newcomer and I will have met them at vel thees di inus ant quam, moluptatio.

MenditCafé restem harum Loomies fund raiserint, daysus at the endil of April for Rat repe porum repercide nosam re nienis eaquam delibus the first dantis time. mo to expe ma quas ant vercil est ad con di please corrumhelp dolupta So,paruptae would you me to raisequo theint target qui con prent ad maio. Em utem temquidere sitio quaepeople nihicit, of Macmillan of £5,000 forvolor the wonderful veni officabo. totatiis nus who do such aIcfantastic job?dem Your help ipiendu is greatlyciasiment et, et molent erumbiking volenim voluptius eiusae dolorposasatias eliquaecea dit,and autask myhilfellow needed I can’t do it alone venimi, evella verro mi, and incilSisters, eossumwho volupta Brothers are universally known for quia quaecup tationsed mod undestrumqui culpacharity niam, nimagnim laut quo grovelling their (yes I’m unashamedly here), optio. temquo whatever cuptibus you can volent, to helpSapic by donating throughque myvolleca borrovidem cuptatet ea dolor accupta aut velloru meniam inti Just Giving pageharumenimi, (www.justgiving.com/falcopete). labore pellibeata voluptaqui sit earibus dandaer itaturia nesyour mobile Alternatively, you can text on ‘STST60’ iur, cullum nobis mosam consequis quiam, sam la (e.g.dolecab along withestotat your donation amount £10) to 70070. faccabo rionsequi aut rempor atiis quideniatust unte amet harumto Macmillan All your donations go straight Cancer num lam que num et vidus pelique is quuntoreped eost utaspel Support.

USEFUL INFO TRIUMPH TIGER 800 delonexaet aceptatur re praesecepe luptatenis asperitatio.

Everyonequam who donates willEnt be entered Top Speed................................ 130mph re nestibus sa pos aspernam atis hilibus, od scroll quidisofaut omnisplaced sinit, on the laminated honour Falco screen Power............................................94bhp sit officiae eiurem soloreped quas for everyone to see.

Pictures of the tournon willnime be onsus mydiciur, sam aut am Weight...........................................210kg fugitem quae net landerum lit magniendunt autatus.

Just Giving page.

Seat Height....................... 810-830mm Engine................................ 799cc Triple mos enihil into voluptibusam quis Tem incide voluptam re, Next issue: did it all happen as planned and a special Fuel Capacity............................ 19 litres sus re arum quis dent, sinvent, omnistio re very corerci pissitpeople. odit, thanks tocon some special

ultimate

CUSTOM

EAR PLUGS HEARING PROTECTION

& COMMUNICATION FOR MOTORSPORTS

u l t i m ate e a r.com

South East Biker Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk

17

ADVENTURE TRAVEL FILM FESTIVAL

ADVENTURE TRAVEL FILM FESTIVAL

Fancy a biking weekend that’s a bit different?

Then pack your panniers and head off to sunny Dorset and check out The Adventure Travel Film Festival hosted by Austin Vince and Lois Pryce…

I

t’s not just a celebration of the world’s greatest adventure travel films from the 1920s to the present day.

It’s also a weekend knees-up of inspiring speakers and authors, live music and good-time outdoor action! So come on down, see the world, get inspired and join the party…

The Adventure Travel Film Festival is the brainchild of filmmaker Austin Vince and travel author Lois Pryce. Here’s how it all came about…

‘Over the last ten years or so we have been sent tons of fantastic travel films from all over the world by largely unknown film-makers. They came from all over the globe and covered

18

June-July 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

ADVENTURE TRAVEL FILM FESTIVAL every form of transport — boats, bicycles, buses, motorcycles, 4x4s and even hitch-hiking and trainhopping. The ‘adventure travel’ shows we saw on TV, although polished and professional, were nothing in comparison to the real-life dramas that were arriving in our letterbox.

As time passed we gradually realised that we were accruing a fairly extensive and possibly, definitive, collection of adventure travel films. It occurred to us that this had to be the tip of an iceberg. Once we started searching actively, films came to the surface that were absolutely mind-blowing. We were amazed, and excited, that adventures of this quality, old and new, were essentially unknown by the public.

• Our mission is to change all that. Film festivals don’t usually have manifestos — so here’s ours!

• To showcase the best independent adventure travel films ever made • To guarantee a platform for future adventure film-makers • To bring together the adventure travel community • We know that making a good film isn’t difficult — we will show you how • To have loads of fun while doing all the above!

Film festivals are usually based around cinema screens in cities. In the spirit of the event, the Adventure Travel

Film Festival is based around two days of camping and good times in beautiful countryside.

THE LIST OF FILMS IS LONG AND VARIED C90 Adventures: Malaysia to UK (2013); Continental Drift (2013); Deep Water (2006); Expedition Yemen: 120 Degrees in the Shade (2013); Go Ganges! (2012); Harlan County USA (1976); Into the Empty Quarter (2013); Mile, Mile and a Half (2013); Nahanni (2013); Off the Rails (2001); People of the Wind (1976); The Ride (2013); We Like Short Shorts!

There are also plenty of guest speakers, workshops and activities to keep all entertained.

The UK Adventure Travel Film Festival takes place at Sherborne Girls School, Bradford Road, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3QN from Friday 15th August – Sunday 17th August 2014.

You can arrive from 3pm on the Friday and the camping site must be vacated by 3pm on the Sunday.

SLEEPING, EATING, DRINKING, WATCHING… Camping is within the grounds and is included in the ticket price. The school has a superb range of auditoria fitted out with bespoke audio systems, projectors, screens and comfortable seating. At the end of each day, the main feature will be projected outside, under the stars. In poor weather this screening will relocate

BIKESAFE – Education in partnership with the road user WHAT WILL IT ENTAIL?

“Lifetime skills helping to create a safer riding environment” WHAT IS IT?

BikeSafe is a National Police run motorcycle scheme, aimed at working with bikers in a relaxed environment.

The idea is to raise awareness and to create a genuine desire for you to progress to accredited post test training. The end result — a reduction in casualties.

The format of BikeSafe workshops may vary in different parts of the country but all contain information on real life needs: • Attitudinal issues • Systematic methods • Collision causation • Cornering • Positioning • Overtaking • Observation • Braking • Hazard perception • Use of gears A BikeSafe workshop will include an on road observed ride with a police motorcyclist or approved BikeSafe observer. It’s fun and the benefits could last a lifetime.

WHAT DOES IT GIVE YOU?

• A taste of safer motorcycling techniques • An observation of training needs • A certificate of completion • An opportunity to benefit from incentives

AND IMPORTANTLY

It helps you identify your strengths and weaknesses in preparation for training by recognised accredited providers.

Bikesafe

@BikesafeUK

For more information and to book visit: www.bikesafe.co.uk

South EastHPBiker Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk Bikesafe 0414.indd 1

19 24/03/2014 10:18

ADVENTURE TRAVEL FILM FESTIVAL to the mighty sports hall – the whole gang under one roof! Please remember to bring your own chair or cushions for the starlight screenings.

The venue provides cooked breakfasts and twocourse evening meals. Naturally, the venue has plenty of shower and toilet facilities and also access to a swimming pool. Camper vans and caravans are most welcome but there is no hook-up. And most importantly, there is a bar!

WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS

Austin Vince is a pretty dab hand at film making himself. The slightly eccentric, but extremely amusing and likeable adventurer and raconteur undertook the now infamous Mondo Enduro motorbike trip in 1995. This was well before Ewan and Charley set off on their trip complete with TV crew, back up truck, satellite phones etc.

It was a proper motorbike adventure.

Since then, Austin has given up his part-time teaching career, married fellow adventurer Lois Pryce and undertaken various other projects and trips including Terra Circa and, more recently, Mondo Sahara.

Your weekend ticket includes entry to all films, talks, presentations, sideshows, live music and 2 nights camping. Some of the workshops are extra.

A weekend ticket without meals is £76.00. A weekend ticket with meals is £110. Children under 12 get in free (meals can be bought separately for them).

Full details of the event are available on the website www.adventuretravelfilmfestival.com So, would any SEB readers care to win a pair of tickets to The Adventure Travel Film Festival?

Thought so!

All you need to do is answer the following question…

Which item of clothing is Austin normally to be found wearing?

A. A mankini. B. A pair of overalls. C. A wetsuit.

Email your answer together with contact details to nick@southeastbiker.co.uk by 5pm, Tuesday 15th July. The editor’s decision is final.

Check out our new website and online store!

WWW.FREESTYLEBIKES.CO.UK TEL: 01892 782288 WADHURST ROAD, MARK CROSS, EAST SUSSEX, TN6 3PD

20

June-July 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

THE UKS BIG NEW

FREE

TO ATTEND MOTORCYCLE SPORTS EVENT

BEXHILL MotoFEST

BRITAIN'S BIG NEW FREE MOTORCYCLE FESTIVAL JulyBIG 27th 2014 from 9am BRITAIN'S NEW FREE MOTORCYCLE FESTIVAL

SUNDAY 27TH JULY 2014 SUNDAY 27TH JULY 2014 SPECIAL PULL-OUT BEXHILL ON SEA, EAST SUSSEX

DE LA WARR PAVILION, BEXHILL ON SEA, EAST SUSSEX, TN40 1DP

BEXHILL ON SEA, EAST SUSSEX SUPPLEMENT

Moto Gymkhana Moto Gymkhana UK National Championship UK National Championship Round IV Live on Round BexhillIVSeafront Live on Bexhill Seafront

www.bexhillmotofest.com

BEXHILL MOTOFEST

9am - Classic Motorcycle Cavalcade from Cooden Beach 9am -4pm Moto Gymkhana Championship and arena events 11am - 2pm Live music on De La Warr Terrace

Shaw Harley Davidson Motorcycle as Art Exhibition Family Funfair Barbecue Over 50 restaurants, cafes and bars in the local area.

22

MOTORCYCLE SPORT IS BACK IN BEXHILL

for the first time … since 1924

BEXHILL MotoFest on Sunday 27th July 2014 brings motorcycle sport back to its birthplace of Bexhill on Sea, East Sussex. This ambitious new free to attend bike event is a key part of the local council’s regeneration policy to attract biking visitors to the town

B

ike 1066, the company dedicated to promoting motorcycle tourism in the East Sussex area, have worked closely with Rother District Council and Sussex Police to create a unique motorcycle sports event that not only embraces the historical significance of motorcycles to Bexhill but also appeals to the younger Red Bull generation of bikers.

At the heart of BEXHILL MotoFest is a live round of the UK national Moto Gymkhana championships held on Bexhill sea front. Moto Gymkhana is the Japanese originated urban trials sport that pits riders’ manoeuvre and control skills around a fixed course of cone obstacles against the clock. With the classic art deco backdrop of Bexhill’s De La Warr Pavilion bikes of all capacities will rev, roar, twist and turn as they compete in one of the fastest growing motorcycle participation sports in Europe.

Bexhill on Sea in East Sussex is the epitome of genteel south coast seaside resorts. But it wasn’t always so. Between 1902 and 1924 Bexhill was the Edwardian petrol head’s paradise as cars, motorised bicycles, full blown motorbikes and even trikes tore up and down the seafront in head to head

sprint races. Gilbert Sackville, the 8th Earl of De La Warr, who was a local landowner and original petrol head, first introduced Motor Racing to Bexhill after seeing how successful it was in the South of France. Overnight Bexhill became the birthplace of British car and motorcycle racing and the playground of Edwardian speed freaks with their glamorous coterie from all over the continent.

The Bexhill sprints died out in 1924 but Rother District Council (who are responsible for Bexhill), Sussex Police, the local chamber of commerce, Bexhill Museum, the Town Team and local community have all teamed up to work with bike1066 and Moto Gymkhana to deliver an event that welcomes everyone whether bikers or not. History shows that BEXHILL MotoFest has the potential to attract investment to the town and local community. Well organised, professionally run motorcycle events can make a real difference.

We invite everyone to bring your bikes, trikes, cars and families, come and be a part of motorcycle sport history.

BEXHILL MotoFest, 27th July 2014, 9am-5pm Bexhill on Sea, East Sussex, FREE TO ATTEND. For more information visit www.bexhillmotofest.com

June-July 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

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BEXHILL MOTOFEST

LIVE MUSIC AND MOTORCYCLE AS ART DISPLAY LIVE MOTO GYMKHANA UK NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND IV

MOTORCYCLE TRADERS AND EXHIBITORS de la war der la parwar ader par ade FAMILY FUNFAIR AND BARBECUE

MOTO GYMKHANA

T

he most fun you can have on a motorbike! Moto Gymkhana is a high energy, technical motorcycle sport that doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s all about skill – requiring accurate control, bursts of speed and ruthless braking – rider ability not horsepower is the key to steering round a course of obstacles in the fastest time. You can take part on any kind of motorbike and learn some great techniques to help you speed up your slalom, get a rapid rotation and accelerate your X-box! Want to have a go? Take a look at our www.motogymkhana.org The Moto Gymkhana Association was founded in 2011 following their visit to Japan – they are now working hard to establish Moto Gymkhana as a worldwide phenomenon. MGA is your first point of call for everything to do with the sport in the UK & Europe. Moto Gymkhana combines ‘Moto’ – shorthand for motorbike, with ‘Gymkhana’ an event consisting of speed pattern racing and timed games for riders, traditionally on horseback.

Moto Gymkhana began in Japan over 40 years ago, with motorcyclists getting together to

South East Biker Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk

enjoy informal and fun competitions between themselves. Motorcycle dealers and manufacturers caught on to the idea, holding competitions to advertise and promote their products and have fun with their clients. Moto Gymkhana competitions have changed dramatically since their outset, moving from manufacturer/dealer led, to rider led events open to any make of motorcycle.

Along with the fun of the competition, Moto Gymkhana also is also a sport built on friendship and camaraderie.

It’s a relatively safe sport – bumps and bruises are usually the worst injury and even these are rare due to the low speeds. The Editor of Performance Bikes called it “the most insane, non-lethal motorcycle sport” – what more could you want?

Come along to the Bexhill Motofest and find out what it’s all about. Or maybe sign up and have a go!

23

THE UKS BIG NEW

FREE

TO ATTEND MOTORCYCLE SPORTS EVENT

motofest-a6-flyer_Layout 1 02/04/2014 16:11 Page 2

BEXHILL MotoFEST July 27th 2014 from 9am

DE LA WARR PAVILION CAR PARK, Sunday July SUSSEX, 2014 9AM - 5PM1DP BEXHILL ON SEA,27th EAST TN40 DeBYLaSOUTH WarrEAST Pavilion Car ParkAND Bexhill Sea, TN40 1DP SUPPORTED BIKER MAGAZINE ROTHERon DISTRICT COUNCIL

supported by

LIVE MOTO GYMKHANA UK cavalcade BEXHILL MotoFest - Live Moto Gymkhana - motorcycle NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND Motorcycle as Art display - traders and exhibitorsIV - live music motorsport trail family funfair over 50 restaurants BEXHILL MOTOFEST • LIVE MOTO GYMKHANA • MOTORCYCLE CAVALCADE and cafes MOTORCYCLE AS ART DISPLAY • TRADERS AND EXHIBITORS • LIVE MUSIC BEXHILL MOTORSPORT • FAMILY FUNFAIR...AND OVER 50 is RESTAURANTS CAFES BE PARTTRAIL OF HISTORY - Moto Gymkhana the urbanAND trials sport BE PART OF HISTORY: MOTO GYMKHANA IS a THE URBAN TRIALS OPEN TO open to anyone over 18 with minimum CBTSPORT motorcycle ANYONE OVER 18 WITH A MINIMUM CBT MOTORCYCLE LICENCE.

licence.

USE YOUR OWN BIKE OR HIRE AN EVENT BIKE TO MAKE YOUR OWN ATTACK Use your own bike or hire an event bike to make your own ON THE CHAMPIONSHIP. SEE ONLINE FOR DETAILS.

attack on the championship. See online for details.

FOR ONE DAY BEXHILL-ON-SEA BECOMES ‘BIKING-ON-SEA’ For one day Bexhill on Sea becomes Biking on Sea FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

www.bexhillmotofest.com

www.bexhillmotofest.com

THWAITES BIKE & CAR MOT & SERVICE CENTRE BRIGHTON & HOVE’S MG, ROVER, AND NEW MINI AUTHORISED REPAIR CENTRE Thwaites Mot & Service Centre is a familyrun independent garage, situated in a new purpose-built workshop in Portslade.

We pride ourselves on a high standard of workmanship carried out in clean and tidy conditions using the latest up to date testing equipment.

We’re proud to know most of our clients are brought to us by word-ofmouth recommendation.

Telephone: 01273 430 303 • Website: www.thwaitesgarage.co.uk Unit 1, William Street, Portslade, West Sussex. BN41 1PZ Thwaites HP 0114.indd 1

16/01/2014 10:44

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South East BikerHPMagazine JB Motorcycles 0114.indd •1www.southeastbiker.co.uk

25 14/01/2014 18:26

BLOODRUNNERS

BEHIND THE SCENES AT SERV

THE BLOODRUNNERS Anyone who has been to a motorcycle show over the last few years will probably be familiar with SERV, who run vital out of hours medical courier services. They have done a fantastic job in recruiting motorcycling volunteers but could really use more help on the control side. SERV Kent Head Controller, Sharon Abrams, fills us in on what they get up to…

F

or those of you that have missed previous articles about SERV Kent (Service by Emergency Response Volunteers) we are a registered charity that delivers emergency blood and blood products to NHS hospitals in Kent and to the Kent Air Ambulance daily.

Also we have recently added two Kent hospices to our list – Demelza House and the children’s division of Ellenor Lions Hospice, Chyps who we assist by moving pieces of equipment, collecting prescriptions, moving samples etc within our normal operating hours.

We operate every night of the 26

year from 7pm to 6am and provide 24 hour cover every weekend and Bank Holiday.

All this is done free of charge.

We would not be able to do this without our volunteers who give up their time and use their own vehicles without recompense to ensure the collection and deliveries are carried out.

Whilst SERV have a small number of charity owned vehicles which are distinctive and recognisable the majority of our ‘jobs’ are carried out in cars or on bikes that are indistinct from any other vehicle on the road meaning that the general public are largely unaware of the work

carried out by SERV volunteers.

The other unseen element allowing the nearly 3,000 callouts a year to be carried is the controller who basically tells the volunteers where to go!

The controller’s job is to answer calls from the hospitals and hospices and coordinate our volunteers to carry out the job.

Before a shift starts the controller sends out a text to each person on the rota for that shift asking them to confirm that they are available for duty – there are seven rider/ drivers on duty for each shift with the back up of response vehicles if needed.

Because Kent is a large county we have split our volunteers into North Kent (covering Medway, Darenth Valley, Tunbridge Wells at Pembury and Maidstone hospitals) and East Kent (covering William Harvey, Kent and Canterbury and QEQM hospital) so if a product is ordered from the main blood bank

June-July 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

BLOODRUNNERS at St Georges Hospital in Tooting it will involve coordinating several volunteers.

Overnight and on Bank Holidays we are assisted by SERV Surrey and South London who will often collect from Tooting on our behalf and take the order to one of two agreed handover points at Hooley or Farningham.

When a call is received by our controller, who for the duration of their shift will have calls diverted to their own mobile or landline telephone, details are taken of the job. Sometimes this will be inter hospital (moving products from one hospital to another) or it could be an order from Tooting or samples or other products needing to go to Tooting.

If the order involves a collection from Tooting we will need details of how many boxes have been ordered, what the product is and what time it will be ready for collection and when the product

is needed by. If it is very urgent we will need to send a response rider/ driver using a marked vehicle so that the delivery can be made as quickly and safely as possible.

For less urgent orders the controller will send a volunteer either into Tooting (during the day at weekends) or to a changeover point at a time that has been agreed with SERV SSL (who will hopefully be able to collect it from Tooting on our behalf) our North Kent volunteer will then either deliver the order to the North Kent hospital that ordered it or, if it was ordered by an East Kent Hospital, take it to our East Kent changeover point. The controller will have contacted an East Kent volunteer and asked them to collect the order at a specified time and then deliver it to the East Kent hospital that is waiting for it.

Should there be any problems the rider/driver contacts the controller who will then need to

decide the best course of action – sometimes pure volume of traffic, an accident or road closure causes a delay and this information needs to be passed on as it could mean an extra wait at a changeover point!

There is no such thing as a normal night for a controller – there are so many variables to take into account and no two nights are ever the same, rarely there may be no calls (unlikely!) or there could be a couple of calls during the whole shift or eight or nine, you just can’t tell.

One thing is certain without someone taking the calls and coordinating our willing volunteers we would be unable to carry out this service for our local hospitals, the number of callouts is increasing and we are always looking for additional volunteers to join us, if you think you may be able to help please contact us via the website www.servkent.org.

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27 18/03/2014 10:41

MEET YOUR MAKER

N o -n o n s e n s e

BOOTS Bikers who wear Alt-Berg boots tend to rave about them, so while visiting family in Leeds over Easter Alice Dryden seized the opportunity to drop in on the Alt-Berg factory/shop in Richmond, North Yorkshire.

T

he Alt-Berg emporium is cunningly sited among some of the best biking roads in the country, on the edge of the Dales, so it’s easy to make your visit part of a day’s or weekend’s riding. Arrive on a bike and you’ll have the advantage of being able to try boots on with your regular riding kit, ensuring a good fit.

The small shop is adjacent to the factory area, with big windows so you can check out the massive industrial machines, wooden lasts, and boots in various stages of construction.

Alt-Berg manufacture three main types of motorcycle boot: a classic touring style with side zips and velcro, a more traditionallooking boot for the oldschool biker, and a ‘dualpurpose’ lace-up suitable for strolling around in once you reach your destination.

All come in several variations, with waterproof, high, and lightweight versions available, and are plain black, with no flashy logos or coloured panels, just a discreet fabric tag. Half sizes and five width fittings, from extra narrow to extra wide, mean that 28

even the most awkwardly-shaped feet can be accommodated. Not necessarily small feet, however; some styles start at a UK size 6 or 7.

I was after waterproof boots I could wear year-round for longer trips as well as my daily commute, and the Hogg All Weather Original (£184.99) seemed to fit the bill. My feet were carefully measured by Paul, who wrote down his findings and brought me a size 6 off the shelf to try on. Once I’d been scolded for tying the laces wrong and initiated into the correct method, they were a lovely fit.

I couldn’t decide whether to be disappointed that I wouldn’t get a pair of boots custom made especially for me, or delighted that I could take my purchase home straight away. After a few minutes’ clomping about in my new footwear, I picked delighted. Paul gave me a card to fill out, which June-July 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

MEET YOUR MAKER thick soles, anti-crush properties and good ankle support (a standard across the range), and I hope I’ll be wearing them for many years to come.

Prices are comparable to those of a high-end brand like Alpinestars, with the added satisfaction of knowing your boots have been made in the UK. Inside the tongue of the right-hand (rightfoot?) boot is a label giving the date of manufacture and the initials of both cobbler and tester.

Alt-Berg also make walking boots, as well as several lines designed for police and military use. If you can’t make it to Yorkshire, you can buy both off-the-peg and custom sizes online at www.altberg.co.uk.

added me to the Alt-Berg mailing list and immediately entitled me to a discount. I also got a free tin of Leder-Gris wax so I could tend to the needs of my new boots.

I’ve worn my boots almost daily since purchase, for stop-start city commuting, hours of hammering down motorways in the pouring rain, and even the occasional muddy dog-walk. They’re light and flexible yet reassuringly protective, with

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JOHN HARRIS HP Ad.indd 1 South East Biker0413 Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk

17/03/2014 17:33 29

FITNESS

Track season

fitness!

Many of us will be preparing the bikes for track days or even racing but how many prepare the body? Simon Thorne show’s you a few fitness techniques.

T

rack season is well and truly upon us so you may have got your motorcycle in fine fettle for your track days over the Summer period but have you put any thought into yourself? In this months SEB article, we will be looking into how to get you prepared before and on the day. Performance is not just down to the motorcycle but ultimately lies with the rider.

Whilst your motorcycle is warming up ready to go out on the track, you need to do the same for yourself. Here are a few simple moves to get your muscles ready so that you get the most out of your machine on the day and to help to reduce injury whilst you ride or even should you bin it!

PREPARATION BEFORE THE BIG DAY PLANKS Start with your elbows shoulder width apart and your toes on the floor, keep you body straight and in the air.

Hold the abs tight and make sure the back does not hollow.

To check form, ask a friend to keep an eye or use a mirror. How long can you hold this position?

Try to improve your time each session. This will increase your core stability which is essential for your position on the bike.

30

PRESS UPS

DORSAL RAISES - LOWER BACK STRENGTH

Start with your toes together and hands shoulder width apart, bracing the abs. Bend arms to a 90 degree position holding your form. If it is too much on the toes, do the same on your knees.

Count how many full reps you can complete within one minute. This will build up your upper body strength which you will need to keep your bike under control.

Laying face down with your arms by your sides gently raise your chest upwards keeping your hips on the floor. Focus on lifting using your lower back. This will strengthen and increase flexibility in your lower back giving you a better ride especially when tucking into an aerodynamic position saving you vital seconds and energy.

SQUATS

WARMUP ON THE DAY HIGH-LOW Starting with your feet hip width apart and your arms straight up above your head. Suck in your gut and with the same movement as a squat, swing your arms down towards the floor, keeping them straight and parallel in a swift fluid movement. At the same pace, swing them back up to your starting position. Repeat this for approximately 10 reps or until you start to feel warm.

Standing with feet hip width apart, bend through the knee and hip to a 90 degree position then return to your standing position. Keep your abs tight, back straight, head up and looking forward. Don’t let the knees come over the toes.

Try to do as many squats in one minute. Keep your form as this is key. Building up your quads, ham strings and glutes will make you a much stronger rider especially giving you the ability to get the much fabled “knee down” on the apex!

LUNGE AND CHEST OPENER Start in the same position as the squat . Take a large step forward keeping the weight even between your feet. Lower your whole body down bending the back knee keeping the body straight and upright. Keep those abs strong and don’t let your front knee go

June-July 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

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Available as a 500ml spray and 5 litre refills.

To order check out the South East Biker website at www.southeastbiker.co.uk, scan the QR code or call 01892 459080.

South East Biker Magazine1 • www.southeastbiker.co.uk DemonClean HP 0114.indd

31 14/01/2014 17:13

FITNESS over the toe. In this position, take the opposite arm to your leading leg and swing this upward in a diagonal movement whilst your other arm mirrors this in a downward movement. This will open your chest and arms whilst stretching out the legs. Come back to the starting position and alternate the legs and arms for approximately 10 reps as before with ‘High-Low’.

joint. Place your foot back on the floor and repeat on the other side.

This will warm up your hips making your movement around the bike far easier.

OVER THE GATE/HIP OPENER Standing with your feet hip width apart holding onto something to keep your balance, i.e your handlebars! Lift one leg off the floor in front of you so that your knee is at a 90 degree angle, then pivot the leg out to the side rotating the hip

HAM STRETCH Standing up straight, place one foot out in front a couple of feet away. Make sure you keep the front leg nice and straight lifting your toe towards the shin. Lean forwards from the hip to gain the desired hamstring stretch.

WARMDOWN HIP, QUAD AND CHEST STRETCH Kneel on the floor and with one foot, take a step forward similar to a lunge. Keep your front knee positioned above the toe creating a stretch along your hip flexer and your back leg quad. Raise both arms straight above the head to open up the chest. Hold this position for 30 seconds then alternate to the other leg.

BACK STRETCH Kneeling on the floor with your butt to your heels, lean forward stretching your arms out in front of you. Hold the stretch for 30 seconds. Gently move the hands to one side then the other and hold in each position. This will stretch the obliques, lower back and shoulders.

Hopefully these warmups, exercises and stretches will improve your time, performance and ultimately your enjoyment out on the track.

Not all exercise programs are suitable for everyone.

Check with your doctor before beginning any fitness program to avoid/reduce the risk of injury. Perform these exercises at your own risk. Simon Thorne, of Thorne Fitness (www. thornefitness.com), will not be responsible or liable for any injury sustained as a result of using any fitness suggestions.

Evolution Paintwork All types of motorcycle paintwork and classic restoration undertaken Track day/race fairings Plastic repairs Accident repairs 20 years panel beating & painting experience Martin Watts T: 07842 968863 E: evolutionpaintwork@gmail.com W: www.evolutionpaintwork.co.uk Find me on Facebook Unit 6 Oaks Farm Workshops, Framfield, East Sussex, TN22 5PN

32 Evolution Paintwork 0313 HP.indd

1

June-July 2014 • South East 15/03/2013 Biker Magazine 15:19

ROB GUIVER

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his season Rob is riding in the Ducati Tri-options cup aboard a Ducati Panigale 899, backed by Hyside Motocycles of Romford.

We caught up with Rob at the first round of BSB at Brands where he was riding in this support series. Rob hadn’t ridden a V twin before so there was plenty of learning to be done.

SEB has tracked the progress of local Essex rider Rapid Rob Guiver over the last few years. From being a regular front runner in British 125cc Championships, Motorpoint British Supersport and ending up as winner of last season’s Triumph Triple Challenge, Rob has seen it all at this level.

ROB FILLS US IN ON HIS FIRST WEEKEND ON HIS BLOG It’s been what feels like a long winter, and I’ve been busy building my new Hyside Motorcycle 899 Ducati Panigale! It was great to finally get back to racing and set up in the paddock for the first round, and also see some friendly faces.

After our pre-season briefing and some last minute changes to the bike, I was ready for our first practice session of the year.

It went well, the new 899 is such a lovely bike to ride and set up! We were trying different set ups with the gearing and got a good base setting. I ended up 2nd fastest, a good start to the weekend.

We only had one session Saturday for Qualifying, the weather was good, it was fun and I enjoyed the session. I was in a battle with three other riders for pole, Dennis Hobbs, Marty Nutt and Leon Morris. There were some real fast and experienced guys out there this year which is going to make for some good racing! We swapped places several times it was very close with only a tenth of a second between us. As the chequered flag came out I was 4th which put me on the second row of the grid. This was going to be a close race.

The weather has been good all weekend, But on Sunday morning the heavens opened up BIG time and it didn’t stop all day.

It wasn’t a great race for me the moment the lights went out I couldn’t see a thing my visor had misted up I had to lift it up to try and clear it but the rain came poring in, I battled with this the whole race. I don’t have much confidence in the wet, but I felt I could have finished stronger if I was able to see!! I finished 9th which I was pleased with, some good points on the board and I set the 6th fastest time which was my starting position for Monday’s race.

34

June-July 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

#13

UNLUCKY FOR THE OTHERS

ROB GUIVER The weather was much better for our second race of the weekend. The sun was out, the crowd was big and I felt ready to go racing!! I made a good start and was forth into the first turn, I felt good on the bike straight away I took my time making passes where I could and hit the lead on lap 5. I put half a second gap between me and second place man Leon Morris and maintained the gap to the end of the race, to take my first win of the season.

What a fantastic day and weekend! After all the hard work over the off season getting everything ready it has really paid off! Id like to thank all my team for their great efforts, making it a very enjoyable weekend, and all the boys at Hyside Motorcycles for backing me 110% and all the help and support they have given me.

I would like to thank all my sponsors who are on board this year as I would not be out there with out them: Mick Carter, Auto Mech Services; Paul Clark, Vertex Mouldings; Joe Spencer, Joe’s Carpets; Alex Orazietti, Armr Moto; Halo Heavenly Spaces; GIA Moto; R&G; Hel Brake Lines; and Motul.

CHEERING ROB ON We cheered Rob on from Clearways and were delighted when he won the Monday morning race, great stuff Number 13!

Hyside Motorcycles are an authorised Ducati Dealer and quality preowned motorcycle specialist. In business since 1989, they specialise in new and used Ducati motorcycles,and always stock a good range of quality preowned motorcycles, new parts and accessories. Based in Romford, Essex, the business has been established for 25 years.

Ronnie and Simon from Hyside have many years’ racing experience between them and are supporting Rapid Rob this season. www.hysidemotorcycles.co.uk

DOCTOR Servicing, Repairs, Tyres, Diagnostics Renovations & Engine Rebuilds MOTORCYCLE, SCOOTER & QUAD BIKES MOT SPECIAL OFFER: £25 Tel: 07794 919333 • www.mdsmot.com Unit 2, Ivy Dene Industrial Estate, Ivy Dene Lane, Ashurst Wood, East Grinstead, West Sussex, RH19 3TN

Motorcycle DoctorMagazine 0414 HPH.indd 1 South East Biker • www.southeastbiker.co.uk

17/03/2014 12:30 35

CHARITY £1 from every Holiday Safe Travel Insurance policy bought (see page 11) goes to support The Bike Experience

TALAN: GETTING BACK ON TRACK

Earlier this year we published an article about The Bike Experience, a charity enabling disabled bikers to get back on a motorbike. Talan Skeels-Piggins is the inspiration behind this super idea. Sandy Caulfield caught up with him at Brands Hatch…

I

the pack for the warm-up lap, and then takes his place t is 11:39 on a gorgeous spring day at Brands on the grid. He is forced to start at the back because Hatch, the FIRST spring day of the year. And my he needs his launch team to hold the bike steady as heart is in my mouth. I find I am unable to utter he waits for the lights to change. There is a crescendo anything remotely intelligent. In fact, I can’t speak of noise as red turns to green and, with a roar, the at all. bikes pull away.

There are just moments before the launch crew We all hold our breath as we watch him battling for haul Talan Skeels-Piggins onto his Suzuki SV650S race position for 12 laps of the circuit. bike, number 74. Talan Talan competes in the 650 mini (M) class, Skeels-Piggins; British and the bikes in this race are a mix of 450s, Olympic skier, bike 650Ms and 650s. It is difficult to know racer, paraplegic. exactly who we need to beat - who are I am moved beyond the direct competition and who is not in expectation at the our class. But 36 bikes in one race seems a enormity of what this heck of a lot to me! No matter. The race is a man is about to do. great success. Talan picks up a healthy six I am completely in places, and finishes with a best lap time of awe, and I struggle Waiting to get in pit lane 58.4 seconds. Talan is happy. The team is to get control of my ecstatic. The season is off emotions. to the best start they could It is eleven years to the day, have hoped for. to the minute, since Talan was Talan is starkly honest paralysed after being hit by a car. about his feelings. “I was The significance of the moment frightened. I haven’t been does not pass unnoticed by his on the bike since Assen. team.

I needed to know I could Adding a further element ride it again.” of tension is the fact that this On the Grid And can he? Hell yes! He weekend is Talan’s first time on has guts, this man, and has pushed a bike since his crash at his ability and his nerve to their limit.

Assen in August 2013, He reflects, “By the 4th or 5th lap which left him with I was being lapped. I went slightly multiple injuries including wide on the corners to give the a shattered leg. The leg faster bikes room to get through. I is secured in a prosthetic overtook them on the straights. I’m casing, which enables him pleased with that.” to ride today.

Talan competes on an even We wait in the pit lane.

Doing well playing field with able-bodied riders.

Nobody is speaking. With There are things about his disability which he feels brute force and slick togetherness, Talan’s launch hold him back, but he relishes a fair fight. “Because I crew get him onto the bike. His knees and boots are can’t hang off the bike on the corners, I have to lean strapped with Velcro to the anchor points on the more than the other bikes. They can keep their bikes frame and pegs. He waits at the side of the grid to join 36

June-July 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

£1 from every Holiday Safe Travel Insurance policy bought (see page 11) goes to support The Bike Experience CHARITY more upright, and there’s better grip. And because I have no feeling from the chest down, the first I know about a skid is when the bike is on its side.”

But Talan says of riding, “Getting back on a bike again after my accident was the happiest day of my life. It gave me the chance not to feel disabled again, in any way.”

The Suzuki is adapted for Adaptions to right grip use with hands only. The front and rear brakes are operated by dual levers on the right grip, and the gear change is a push-button system on the left. During the first race, glitches in the gear change throw a false neutral in between fifth and fourth on the down-shift, and swift adjustments are made by Matty, the mechanic.

At the end of each race, the launch crew has to catch Talan’s bike before it comes to a complete halt, as he is unable to put his feet down and stand. He returns to his wheelchair and chats with the other The Talan Racing Team competitors in the ‘Parc Ferme’. His

team are busy with the bike, and the photographer snaps away. This is a close family, with one collective goal. To work together to pull Talan up the pack.

There is talk of designing some retractable landing legs to stabilise the bike when stationary, which would negate the need for a launch crew, and allow Talan to start the races from further forward on the grid. There are ideas about how to facilitate some movement from side to side on the seat, to make Talan quicker in the corners. The sense of optimism is palpable, and it’s smiles all round.

This weekend has been about chasing away demons. It is about putting the past where it belongs, and kicking off the 2014 racing season on a high. The Talan Racing team has a brand new sponsor in McMillan Williams Solicitors, and the bike is about to undergo a make-over.

Talan’s injuries are mending. All is well with the world.

Information about The Bike Experience can be found at www.tbex.co.uk

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South EastHP Biker Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk Inta 0113 Ad.indd 1

37 15/01/2013 14:00

South East Biker Events JUNE EVENTS

Jun 1

Jun 1 Jun 11

June Motocross,

Jul 1

BBQ and Bike Night, Robin

www.sidcupmotorcycleclub.co.uk

Jul 5

Freestyle Bikes,

Event Higham ME3 7JL

Jul 6

Viking Motorcycle Seats

Canada Heights

Medways 7th Classic Bike

Evening Trial, Canada Heights

www.sidcupmotorcycleclub.co.uk

June 14 Charity Motorcycle Run and event

June 18 Dover to Donnington Ride

www.horizonsunlimited.com/ events/hubbuk-2014

June 19-22 The Hubb UK Jun 22

Jun 29

JULY EVENTS

Hare and Hounds, Canada Heights

www.sidcupmotorcycleclub.co.uk Romney Marsh Classic Bike Jumble

Hood, Icklesham 7pm

Motorcycle Funday Custom bike show

Jul 18-21 British Superbikes, Brands Hatch

July 26 Worthing Motorcycle Show Jul 25-27 The Bongo Bash, Jul 27 Jul 27 July 27 July 27

Six Bells, Chiddingly

Classic Superbike Show Ardingly

The Hunstman

Motorcycle Show, Eridge Bexhill Motofest

Loomies to Rykas ride

July 31- Bikes on the Farm Aug 3 Chichester PO20 7EH

PLEASE NOTE: we cannot be held responsible for the information provided on this page. Much of it is provided independently. We suggest you check details with the organisers before making commitments. Further details and contacts for some of these events can be found at www.southeastbiker.co.uk.

For South East Biker Track Days contact: debs@southeastbiker.co.uk

If you have an event you would like listed then email: nick@southeastbiker.co.uk.

August/September entries to be in by 4th July 2014. Entries are limited to first come first in.

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South East Biker Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk

19/03/2014 13:51

39

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Email: intabikes@btconnect.com We specialise in quality used motorcycles and are Kent’s leading motorcycle trials specialists.

42

J B MOTORCYCLES

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Outlets in Chichester and Dorset. www.helmetcity.com

TRAINING Sussex Motorbikes

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• Taster Sessions • CBT • A2/DAS • • Free Assessments • Ladies Only Days •

Unit 2, Ivy Dene Industrial Estate, Ivy Dene Lane, Ashurst Wood, East Grinstead, West Sussex.

RH19 3TH MOT, Servicing, Repairs, Tyres, Diagnostics, Renovation and Engine Rebuilds.

Call us now on 01342 890006 enquiries@mtssussex.co.uk www.mtssussex.co.uk

MISCELLANEOUS BIKESURE

Insurance Champions Call 0800 089 2000 or visit www.bikesure.co.uk

CLOTHING GetGeared 290 Kingston Road, Leatherhead, Surrey KT22 7QE Tel: 01372 225100 Everything you need under one roof or check out our

Viking Motorcycle Seats 27A Heaver Trading Estate, Ash, Kent TN15 7HJ Tel: 07977 874075 Seat modifications, Gel pads,

extensive website.

re-covering and embroidery

www.getgeared.co.uk

www.viking-motorcycle-seats.co.uk

June-July 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

MOTORCYCLE SEATS MOTORCYCLE SEAT UPHOLSTERY SPECIALISTS Quality Craftmandship at Down to Earth prices

We are a small but busy workshop near Brands Hatch supplying and fitting gel pads, memory foam and standard vinyls. We have a full range of faux (fake) and genuine skins. If your seat needs recovering, is uncomfortable or too high or wide, Viking Motorcycle Seats have the solution. How about some customised embroidery? We offer a complete, bespoke service to make your bike unique. While you wait service available.

NEW PRODUCT: HEATED SEATS We now supply and fit the fantastic BRAD PADS, heated seat elements to keep you warm all year. These can be inserted into your seat at the same time as a rebuild. A very simple connection to the battery is supplied and the pads come with two settings.

Price is just £75 or £95 including wiring into bike.

Call us now on: 07977 874075

Visit: www.viking-motorcycle-seats.co.uk Email: leetheseat@hotmail.co.uk, or pop in and see us at: 27a Heaver Trading Estate, Ash Road, Ash, Kent. TN15 7HJ 30 years experience • Quality craftmanship • All work guaranteed

VIKING MOTORCYCLE SEATS

Surrey

www.GetGeared.co.uk

290 Kingston Road Leatherhead KT22 7QE Call 01372 372222 7 days/wk