South East Biker, Issue 35, October-November 2014

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

ovember 2014 Issue 35: October-N

PROJECT

TDR

KEEP WARM IN WINTER A BLAST TO BELGIUM

RETURN OF A

LEGEND

ORTS P S • S T N E V E • URES REVIEWS • FEAT www.southeastbiker.co.uk Join us:

south east biker magazine

@southeastbiker

www.haslemeremotorcycles.co.uk Tel 01420 488290

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STARTING GRID

CONTENTS 4 Return Of A Legend 8 Off Road Season 10 Keep Warm In Winter 12 Toasty Hands 14 Digi-Cam Action Camera 16 Getting It All Wrapped Up 19 Getting Things Perfect 21 Bexhill Motofest 24 Project TDR 26 Autumn Pastimes 28 Lifting A Fallen Motorbike 30 A Blast To Belgium

WHERE CAN YOU FIND SEB MAGAZINE?

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.

We are increasing our circulation every month, so if you missed your copy then subscribe for just £9 per annum and we will post you a copy direct to your door so you will never miss an issue ever again. Just email: nick@southeastbiker.co.uk.

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: Tommy Hill burns rubber on the Hesketh 24 at Goodwood

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

It’s been a busy summer in the South East, the weather has been generally good allowing most events to run smoothly. Pretty much every weekend, from Easter until October, when Brightona and BSB at Brands Hatch signal the end of the biking season has been rammed with bike events to attend. This is a good sign as the number of shows over the last few years has gone down considerably.

Unfortunately the BMF Tailend Show was cancelled as Mullberry Events, who ran it, went into administration. Locally, the first Bexhill Motofest was a great success. When you see at first hand the huge amount of organisation and commitment that is involved in putting something like this together, we should all try and support these events wherever possible.

Some sad news is the closing of Loomies at West Meon. This is a splendid biker venue that has been a watering hole for motorcyclists across the South East, situated on some lovely biking roads. We are riding over there on the 26th October for a last breakfast. If you normally pick up the magazine from Loomies, take a trip up the road to Haslemere Motorcycles as there will be exrtra copies there. On a positive note, SEB will now be available at the Ace Café in London from this issue.

Following on from last issue’s interview with Shakey Byrne, the legend himself dropped by Inta Motorcycles in Maidstone to pick up his copy!

Nick

south east biker magazine @southeastbiker 3

COMEBACK: HESKETH Hesketh V1000

Hesketh 24

RETURN OF A LEGEND

Triumph, Norton, AJS, Ariel, even Brough. All world famous motorcycle brands that not so long ago seemed confined to history books. However in the wake of Triumph’s phenomenal success over the last 20 years, these British brands have been relaunched. Now joining this list is Hesketh Motorcyles. Nick Tunstill caught up with those responsible at their Redhill HQ…

N

ow Hesketh technically didn’t actually disappear, just kept an extremely low profile. Considering the original Hesketh bikes didn’t sell by the bucket load, it’s a bit of a gamble for the owners.

4

Let’s start with a bit of a history lesson for those not aquainted with the brand. Alexander, the 3rd Lord Hesketh was well known for being the backer for James Hunt’s famous privateer Formula One Grand Prix win.

He was keen to develop a new premium British motorcycle and in 1980 Hesketh launched the V twin V1000, to little acclaim unfortunately.

Competing against the might of Japan, whose big four basically had cornered a huge chunk of the motorcycling market, Hesketh struggled. Bikers were expecting their machines to be reliable by now and any inherent faults in a bike caused sales to plummet.

Around 200 Hesketh motorbikes were manufactured all together of which 140 odd are still running.

Mick Broom was the original development engineer and test rider and carried on developing and servicing Hesketh bikes after the original company dissolved.

Mick continued to produce and service Hesketh motorcycles as a cottage industry. And lucky for the Hesketh that he did. Today there is an 80 strong owners’ club and the original bikes are now valuable classics. There were a couple of lovely early examples being worked on in the showroom when we visited.

Paul Sleeman happened to spot one of Mick’s more recent creations outside a pub and decided he wanted one. However, as can often happen in life, one thing led to another and Paul ended up buying the Hesketh brand!

October-November 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

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COMEBACK: HESKETH

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The V1000 model was slowly developed and manufactured in small quantities, finally ceasing after 31 years in production.

So forward to 2014.

Hesketh has now relaunched as a premium brand motorbike company.

The company relocated to Redhill and started work on a completely new project, the Hesketh 24. The 24 pays V1000 being serviced tribute to James Hunt’s F1 winning race number and will be the number of bikes made. This version is designed to relaunch brand awareness and pave the way for future models such as a sports tourer.

The bike is sold as a British product but the engine is a 1,950cc V-twin S&S X-wedge Hesketh’s horses engine. Air-cooled and with a proven power-train, the V-twin was chosen for its reputation and reliability. It made sense to the company to base the bike around existing technology.

Harris performance have then tuned the engine to suit the characteristics of the 24. The colour scheme reflects James Hunt’s racing career and Tommy Hill was involved with the design of the graphics. He was the first person to ride the bike in public at Goodwood.

It’s a big, torquey, naked British muscle bike and looks extremely cool. There’s a classic retro styling to the machine but using top spec modern components.

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Hesketh has a small but dedicated staff of around 6 and have no plans to expand on this. They have all they need in terms of design and engineering skills to produce small numbers of premium motorbikes to order. It’s great to see these historical marques continue. Some of the purists may not approve, but you can’t please everyone. The Hesketh 24 is a motorbike to own and ride just for the joy of having something almost unique.

On the day we visited Hesketh, the 24 was out on a test ride, so we are having to return to have a ride on the bike. Oh well, I am sure that can be arranged!

So, hopefully, a review to follow…

And the price for owning a piece of motorcycling history? A cool £35,000, but don’t hang around, six have been sold to date and when they’re gone, they’re gone, as they say. The 24 is hand built and comes with a comprehensive two year warranty and will be maintained and serviced by the guys who built it.

Thank you to Neil and Toby for showing us around and their hospitality.

For more information have a look at the website: www.heskethmotorcycles.co.uk.

October-November 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

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

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TRAVEL INSURANCE

OFF ROADING SEASON

As autumn is now upon us, many motorcycle enthusiasts may feel that the peak season is over until next spring, however you can still get your biker fix with some off roading fun either in the UK or abroad.

O

ff Roading can be fantastic entertainment, whether you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for a new hobby, or an explorer searching for a way to reach the heart of a destination.

When it comes to racing, there is nothing quite like slicing through muddy corners or cresting a jump to give you a serious rush.

On the other hand, nothing will make you feel more like a real life explorer than emerging from the wilderness and discovering a new place.

Whether you choose Motocross and extreme Enduros or Trial riding with a tour guide in Spain or Wales, you must ensure you invest in specialist travel insurance to protect you and your trip against a holiday disaster.

Unfortunately, many standard travel insurers exclude cover for off roading, as they perceive it to be dangerous and think the activity poses a substantial risk to the participant. However, at Holidaysafe we understand that off roading can be very safe and relatively problem free, which is why we provide cover for off road tours as standard, and can also provide cover for activities like Motocross for an affordable additional premium.

Holidaysafe’s range of specialist Motorcycle travel insurance policies has been created by motorcycle enthusiasts, which means you can rest assured that our

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policies include the cover you really need.

For example, in addition to all the usual travel insurance benefits, we also provide cover for injuries and medical emergencies sustained whilst riding, and any necessary repatriation or curtailment costs. We’ll also cover your leathers, helmet, boots and gloves just in case they are lost, stolen or damaged during the trip.

Furthermore, if you have to return home without your bike due to illness, injury or mechanical failure, we will cover the necessary accommodation and travel expenses for one person to collect your motorcycle from abroad when it is ready.

We offer a range of motorcycle cover levels including Single and Multi Trip insurance starting from just £8.83 for a European trip, so you can choose the policy to suit your plans and budget.

For more information about specialist Motorcycle Off Roading and Motocross Travel Insurance visit Holidaysafe.co.uk/SEB or call 0845 2307 622 and quote ‘SEB5’ to receive an exclusive discount.

October-November 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

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PRODUCT FOCUS

KEEP WARM THIS WINTER B

y the time the October/November issue of South East Biker is collecting dust, many of you will be tucking up your loved ones for winter hibernation. Some riders don’t want to subject their bikes to wet and salty roads, fair enough. For others it’s the effect of cold and wet on themselves that’s the issue. Well, if you fall into the later category, have a bit of a rethink. Motorbike kit improves drastically every year and these days there’s really no reason to be damp or cold on a bike, no matter what the conditions.

Go along to one of the dealers featured in SEB and have a look at the latest winter kit. Ask plenty of questions, the staff are trained by the suppliers to be fully briefed on recommending the correct kit for your needs and budget.

You really do need to see and feel the stuff rather than simply order off the internet. It’s a significant investment and making sure it fits and does what you want is really vital.

Also, if you have any kind of issue with it, you can take it back and discuss it rather than trying to sort out via phone and post.

One of the most common winter additions to bikes is changing to heated grips if they don’t come as standard. This is a cost effective option. Pete Mills has a review of the R&G product in this issue.

Relatively inexpensive, simple to fit and use, they are a godsend to anyone who suffers from cold hands.

Possible drawbacks? They only heat the inside of the hands so when it’s super cold and you are on

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a longer trip, they are not so effective. Also, in my experience, most only seem to last 2-3 years before one of the grips packs up and they then need replacing as a set.

Heated seats are becoming more popular, helping to warm the body core. A fairly expensive factory extra, a more cost effective option can be Brad Pads from Viking Motorcycle Seats near Brands Hatch. Again simple to use and fit, a real boon in winter.

For those serious about winter riding or if you particularly suffer from the cold, heated clothing is the way to go. Gerbing are the market leader in this and have many years’ experience in the field.

Most well known for developing excellent heated gloves, Gerbing do a complete range of plug together kit that will keep you as warm as you want on the bike, or off it for that matter.

They also do 7volt kit for cycling and other outdoor activities. Their products plug into the bike or can be used with battery packs.

My winter plan this year is to try the heated inner jacket in addition to the gloves. By wiring a power link up on both my bikes, I can swap from one to the other without any issues. The jacket and gloves have a dual controller so the temperature can be adjusted to suit the relevant body parts!

Watch out for a full review in the December issue and, in the meantime, ride along to one of our advertised clothing outlets and get kitted out for winter. www.gerbing.eu www.viking-motorcycle-seats.co.uk www.getgeared.co.uk

October-November 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

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PRODUCT FOCUS

TOASTY HANDS THANKS TO R&G WRITES PETE MILLS A

fter signing up for the overnight fundraising Bikers 4 Macmillan tour after a break of 20 months recovering from cancer, I quickly realised my hands suffered from the slightest wind chill with still being 3 stone underweight. After researching several types of products I settled for the R&G heated grips with cost and both BiKE and RiDE recommending these, making the choice simple.

The kit contains all you need to fit the common 22mm handlebars and cost just under £40. I would recommend buying some adhesive for the grips which R&G can provide for about £4. After soldering the earth and power leads with ring connectors and heat shrink tubing to ensure lasting, trouble free connections I found the instructions were very clear and the process seemed pretty straight forward. But, I was forgetting this was an Aprilia Falco and no fault of the kit! The lip that is present on all throttle grips is unusually high (and thick) on the Falco so I ‘played surgeon’ and took a Dremel to it! Once the grips were on and the glue had set, the connections were simplicity itself and the controller was a breeze

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to fit using the double sided pad to attach it to the dash (see the images). There is also a handlebar mounting in the pack too. The kit really is a plug and play system and with a couple of cable ties it all looked neat and tidy.

These have been in use for over three months now and they are one of the best accessories I’ve ever fitted. On the tour they were absolutely brilliant and there is no doubt that if they weren’t fitted I wouldn’t have completed it – they’re that good. The control unit allows you to cycle through 5 levels of heat, lighting up 5 red LED’s. They made the tour a pleasure, heating up fairly quickly and often turning them down to the second level of heat for warm comfortable hands. This allowed me to wear summer gloves, keeping that all important feel too. I have absolutely no doubt that these will do their job in winter and hopefully without the need to wear bulky winter gloves.

Would I buy these again or fit them to my next bike…absolutely, it’s a no brainer. The trick is to turn them on to high (5 LED’s) after starting the bike and by the time the engine’s warmed up, so have the grips – ride safe!

October-November 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

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

15/09/2014 17:01

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TECHNOLOGY REVIEW

Digi-Cam Action Camera

The massive improvements in image quality together with huge reductions in physical size have made using a video camera on a bike a realistic option for all. We recently came across this cost effective version with everything in the box to get you up and running…

T

here are two main reasons for using a camera on a bike. To record your track day, green laning heroics or a memorable trip. Or using it to record your everyday riding in case the worse happens and you are punted off by some idiot with no or unreliable witnesses.

Riders are starting to video their daily journeys in case the above happens and they have some evidence for the police and insurance companies.

The Go-Pro range is the big name in action cameras, but by the time you have bought the camera, cards and all the mounting paraphernalia, the cost can be prohibitive. Especially as by its very nature of use, there’s a fair chance it could get smashed.

The Action Cam is a cost effective entry level solution producing a decent quality image for the price.

The digi-cam provides continuous loop video record to High Definition (720p) just as the police and the courts require for video evidence. Various mounting options are included for locating in the car, on a bicycle or motorcycle to give a rider’s eye-view record.

Included is a MicroSD card (class10) to record the images.

The camera can also be used for leisure with single shot and video recording and the range of mountings means you can record a rider’s view of an event. The quality settings can be adjusted to suit the usage required.

Despite being technologically challenged, I managed to stick the camera on my Tiger’s engine bars and take some standard road footage. http://bit.ly/1qFkA5P I was surprised how well it came out and how easy it was to use. It produces a decent image when conditions and light aren’t great, even at night.

All the fittings and MicroSD card are in the box so as soon as it’s charged you can get going. It comes with a waterproof case and seems reasonably well made. As the recording loops, if using for recording a standard journey you can simply press record when you set off and forget about it.

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SPECIFICATION Size: 66 x 43 x 27mm; Security: each camera is marked with an invisible ID in UV; LCD display 2 inch touch screen; Sound Multi-in microphone; Single shot photo: 5Mp to 1.3Mp Jpeg format; Video: AVI format; HD (1280 x 720) at 23 to 31 frames per second; VGA (640 x 480) at 49 to 62 Frames per second; Digital Zoom 4x; Aperture F3.1 (f=9.3mm); 120 Wide angle lens; Internal rechargeable battery 90 Mins; Car charger through USB; USB2 lead for PC connection PC Windows 2000, XP, Windows 7 and VISTA; Storage MicroSDHC card (Max 32Gb) Class 10 Functions available include single shot photo, video recording and continuous loop driving record which records in 5 minute segments so when SD card is full the software automatically replaces the oldest 5 minute file with the latest 5 minute file – thus there is always (starting with an empty 4 GB sd card) the last 30-40 minutes of riding record available.

Mountings: Dash board, Handle/Engine bar and helmet/hat/body. Waterproof case for operating outside up and to 10 metres under water.

We have a supply of these at the reasonable rate of £115 including VAT and delivery. If you would like one, email nick@southeastbiker.co.uk.

October-November 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

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SEB TRACK BIKE

Getting IT ALL WRAPPED UP

How do you give a track bike a new colour scheme without sending the bike away for weeks to be painted? Debbie Tunstill finds out…

W

ell, that is exactly what I did, I bought an SV650S ’08 off a mate and it was silver. I think silver looks great on bikes, but it is not for me, so I hatched a plan to rope a couple of mates in to help me vinyl wrap my bike.

I have nothing against have an amazing paint job done on a bike, which I did for my road SV by Evolution Paintwork. The bike I wanted to wrap is my track bike and I could not face the thought of spending money on a great paint scheme to then scratch it or even worse! I know that sound pessimistic but anyone that knows me knows I have done it before so I know what I am talking about, hence why I got a track bike to play on.

The first thing to do was to decide what colour scheme I was going to have and for some reason pillar box red came to mind. The next thing to do was to measure the fairings and tank to order the vinyl. As the SV had been used as a track bike already, it has fibre glass fairings and it had a few scuffs so the next thing to do was prepare the paintwork.

It didn’t need a great deal of work on the nose cone or side fairings but the belly pan was chipped a lot naturally.

After a couple of hours sanding down the bike was ready for its shiny new coat to be fitted.

Myself, Richard and Charly started early thursday morning as we only had the day to do it, due to the fact 16

we had put it off for so long. Now I would not suggest you wrap a bike for the first time in one day! But as usual my bike had been pushed aside for customer jobs and I had a track day on the monday so it had to be done by then. Thursday was a LONG day, Charly had to leave at 10pm to see her baby otherwise I think she would have forgotten what her Mum looked like. Both Richard and Charly have experience in vinyl fitting but it was still tough.

Richard was a star, he helped me pretty much finish the bike by 1am friday morning as we were seeing double. The hardest part was doing the tank with one piece of vinyl rather than three. It was definitely a learning curve.

By then we were both fed up with red vinyl and there was so much swearing, I think we would have filled up a swear box and had enough money to pay for a holiday abroad. So we had to call it a day in the early hours.

The final front hugger I attempted myself on friday after some sleep and finished off with the stripes, numbers and decals to make her look fully clothed. I must admit at the end when we put the bike up on the trailer, I took some pictures, I stepped back and was actually impressed with our work.

The response my bike had at the track day was October-November 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

SEB TRACK BIKE

really good, of course there were a few places I knew it could have been better but no one noticed those bits. I now feel quite confident that I could wrap another bike but this time I will give myself a little more time than just one day.

Vinyl wrapping is not for everyone but what it does do is give people another way to change the look of their bikes without having a full paint job. What is also great is that the people that would use us would not want to spend more on their bikes for a paint job, so we are not taking anyone away from other businesses,

in fact we work with a number of dealers and paintworks by supplying stickers and decals.

I want to thank Richard and Charly for their help and of course to DemonSkinz for supplying the vinyl and decals. The next job to do on my bike was to lower the bike so I can touch the floor so look out for the editorial about what changes we made to make it better for me to ride.

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17/09/2014 13:13

SEB TRACK BIKE

Getting things perfect T

Debbie Tunstill fills us in the development of her SV650 based track bike…

he next phase of the facelift for the SEB/ DemonSkinz track bike was the height and handling. My first proper track day on the SV at Brands Hatch was quite funny as poor Nick had to make sure that he knew when I was coming off the track so he could grab the bike before I stopped. As I waited before going out on track I must have looked quite funny hanging off the side of my bike. When they said go, I had to rev the bike to get it moving to be able to get the momentum to launch the bike. So lowering it was an important part of my plan.

Terry, who had the bike before, is a lot taller than me, well most people are, and he had made his own tail frame as the bike was a remake and he didn’t use just Suzuki parts. The SV cannot be lowered like other bikes as the tail is made to measure, so what else can be done? The forks are from a Honda SP1 with a GSXR clutch and Honda front brakes, so getting parts has been interesting. The clip ons for a SV650S are quite a reach for my short little arms. As we brought it down off the trailer, I heard two questions as to whether it 18

was a SV or a GSXR as the fairings are from a GSXR. My road bike has had risers put on the handle bars so it just brings them up a little towards me. So we were standing around at Brands Hatch on an MSV track day scratching our heads as to what can be done to help me out. Ken Chitty of K & S Motorcycles Haywards Heath and our SEB resident instructor came up with a few ideas. It meant he took my bike away for a week and when it came back it looked so different.

Ken had removed the race clip ons, raised the forks through the top yoke and fitted Suzuki GSXR handle bars on the top of the yoke. This made the front end lower so he had to fit a 15mm lowering kit to the rear. Ken replaced the bolts on the bottom of the rear shock s they were too long then re-asjusted all the suspension and gave it a mini service too.

All in all my bike has been modified to fit me and so off I went to Brands Hatch for another track day of fun. Thank you to Ken Chitty of K & S Mototrcycles for helping me to get the SV running like a dream and handling even better.

October-November 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

APP REVIEW

BIKEBAYS

Motorbikes save you so much time getting round town, only to waste time then looking for motorcycle bays, or trying to work out if and where one can park, without an over-eager traffic warden handing out a ticket! The BikeBays team are a group of Londoners who like to travel by motorcycle but have found it both frustrating to find motorbike parking bays, and confusing to understand the different Borough parking

restrictions.

As such they have developed an iPhone App. Both Lite and Full versions are available on iTunes http://bit. ly/bikebays or visit their website www. bikebays.com.

Bikebays pinpoints motorcycle bays in London on an interactive map, provides Borough parking information, restriction information, direct phone lines and directions. The app has been very well received (4+ rating) and now benefits from a growing community (over 3,000 users) who can update bay availability/ location via the App. If you find that motorcycle parking in London is frustrating, then it’s well worth getting the BikeBays App!

K&S Motorcycles Motorcycle servicing and repairs Collection & delivery service Wivelsfield Green, Near Haywards Heath Telephone: 07799 852736 Email: notchyracing13@gmail.com

South Biker HP Magazine K&S East Motorcycles 0714.indd• www.southeastbiker.co.uk 1

19 11/07/2014 14:56

BEXHILL MOTOFEST

BEXHILL MOTOFEST A ROARING SUCCESS

O

n July 27th sleepy Bexhill on Sea was woken up by the roar of an estimated 3,000 bikes descending on the town for the first BEXHILL MotoFest. The combination of Moto Gymkhana on the main sea front car park, unique Motorcycle as Art Exhibition that featured the brand new Hesketh 24, lots of family entertainment and a fantastic programme of live music

20

attracted people from all over the region and from as far afield as Belgium and Holland.

Howard Martin, the organiser of the event, said “we would like to thank everyone for their tremendous support, this has been a great day for Bexhill and we are already planning to do it again next year.”

Sponsors of the event such as motorcycle travel firm Holiday Safe and Shaw Harley Davidson also

thanked the organisers for putting together such a well run event that attracted not only bikers but also many families. With a funfair and under 12s electric trials bikes from local firm Oset it was clear that this was an event attracting every generation and all types of bikers. Next year the event will be held on Sunday July 26th and everyone is looking forward to it becoming bigger and better. www.bexhillmotofest.com

October-November 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

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

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21 10/09/2013 11:27

UPDATES

SEB MEMBERS At SEB we have organised groups of bikers for various events over the last few years. These include trackdays and off road experiences. We have been asked by readers to run more of these and would like to expand this for next year.

We are going to compile a mailing list of interested members so we can let you all know what we are up to.

If you would like to be kept up to date with all this exciting stuff email debs@southeastbiker.co.uk and we will put you on the list. Your details won’t be passed on to anyone else and we won’t send you a load of spam. If you want your details removed at any time, just let us know.

EV1000 MAKING PROGRESS P hil Edwards of Uckfield is pressing ahead with EV1000 — his project to build the world’s quickest electric motorcycle. To remind you, that’s an electric motorcycle that will cover a ¼ mile, from a standing start, in less than seven seconds at over 200mph. He’s doing this to challenge the American constructors (the current record holders) and showcase science and engineering careers to school pupils.

The project is going to cost over £250,000 in total and, although Phil has been offered a £120,000 grant from the Technology Strategy Board, he desperately needs to raise the final £35,000 to match the grant. Time is running out to take up the grant offer and he’s looking for your help to get over this final hurdle.

The project presents a fantastic, world-beating, sponsorship opportunity for an organisation keen

22

to promote science, technology, and engineering to a wide audience. There are also ‘mini sponsor’ packages for businesses who’d like space on the bike (and the project website) for just £100. Can you help Phil realise this long-held dream?

See the project website at www.ev1000.co.uk or call Phil on 01825 761890 if you’d like to get involved.

October-November 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

UPDATES

EVEREST MOTORCYCLES HAVE MOVED…

Terry from Everest Motorcycles has re-located the business to a new premises in Uckfield at Bell Lane.

All sizes, ages and makes of bikes can be serviced, from scooters to superbikes using genuine parts.

MOT’s are done on site by appointment. Tyres can be supplied and fitted at sensible prices and repairs and component re-builds are all part of the services offered.

Everest Motorcycles can supply many aftermarket parts; exhaust systems, fairings, bodywork protection, suspension upgrades, batteries and braking components to name a few.

Drop by and have a look at the smart new workshop when in the area. www.everestmotorcycles.co.uk Telephone: 01825 766351

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

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

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

23 07/07/2014 08:55

RESTORATION PROJECT

PROJECT TDR PART 4 After what seemed like a very dull and unproductive start to the year, the TDR started coming together and reached the allimportant moment of actually getting ready to ride the thing. Neil Allen updates us…

T

here is a daunting moment after a year’s progress of rebuilding and many hundreds of pounds spent where you think “what if it doesn’t actually work?”. Following the philosophy that a pessimist is never disappointed I readied myself for a final few obstacles before completion and lo and behold I was right…

It’s fair to say that when a 25 year old 2-stroke has 24

been sitting around unloved for the past few years you are more than likely to encounter a few issues when putting it back together. After slowly re-assembling the engine piece by piece, attaching the remaining bodywork, adding some fresh fuel and oil – the choke went on and the bike fired in to life after the second or third kick. Amazing! Until it died after about five seconds..

The bike repeatedly managed to spark to life for a few short seconds until it died again – it was at this point I noticed that petrol started to form a small puddle under the bike as petrol poured from one of the carbs. The tank was soon off and carbs wormed out for closer inspection. After dismantling it was apparent that the float in one of the carbs

October-November 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

RESTORATION PROJECT had broken and wasn’t doing its job in the slightest.

Not a problem, I’ll get another one on order and we’ll try again.

I managed to get in touch with one of the local parts dealers and they politely advised me that, this part is not in stock anywhere in Yamaha Europe or Yamaha Japan – it’s discontinued and probably won’t be able to find one. Brilliant.

From my previous time racing a TZR 250 in the Yamaha Past Masters championship the name Andy at Webbs of Lincoln was mentioned whenever a hard to source part was required. I gave him a call and he said he could see what he would do. Soon enough he’d managed to find me a replacement part and it arrived in the post a week or so after my initial disappointment and we were ready to go again!

Carbs were put back together again and back on the bike, airbox on and then petrol tank, time for another try! This time the bike fired to life easily enough again, only for petrol to start pouring out of the other carb. Surely not the same thing again!

The bike would try and run at tickover but any increase in revs would cause it to die again. The obvious thoughts were that jets were blocked and fuel wasn’t getting through. My Dad and I took the carbs off again in what was to become an art that we perfected over the next few days. After each removal of the carbs the jets weren’t spotless but could have been worse. They were given a clean and back in only for the same problem to occur. The fuel tank was checked for any debris, the filters seemed to be doing their job and couldn’t see any visible reason for any blockage.

By this point the frustration was starting to increase and I thought I would seek the help from the wise heads on the TDR250.co.uk forum. As hoped, the wealth of knowledge available found the conclusion to my problem. A minute hole in the float bowl known as the ‘choke fuel circuit feed’ was the cause of this and was renowned for being troublesome on bikes that have been sat still for a while.

Copious amounts of carb cleaner made its way in to this and plenty of attention with a thin wire seemed to clear a load of gunk out of each carb. An inline fuel South East Biker Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk

filter was also purchased to keep anything unwanted out in future and this time the carbs were put back on with a touch more optimism ready for another attempt.

This time the bike kicked over straightaway, sat at tickover and even managed to survive some increased revs. Success!! The two-stroke ring-a-ding coming out of the handmade underslung pipes and blue haze slowly filling the garage was making all the extra hassle worthwhile.

I can only imagine this is probably what parents feel like at the birth of their child, except this one smelt better.

The bike sailed through its MOT, the tester had even owned a TDR previously, advising me to keep it under 7000 revs for the first 500 miles before giving it the proper treatment. I duly did as I was told and have done about 700 miles so far, slowly building the revs until it’s fully run in.

I was quite surprised at how usable the power is for a 2-stroke. It’s not too awkward around town and the upright position and wide bars make it comfortable enough. The real surprise is how light the bike feels, dry weight of the standard TDR was only 137kg to start with, making the bike and its 50hp a lot of fun when getting out of town. Getting rid of the standard exhausts and upgrading the wheels managed to shed a lot of spare kg’s and the bike seems to actively encourage being a bit of a loon.

The only issue with the upgrades I had made to the bike was the blue spot caliper taken from an early R6. Fitted with the standard master cylinder the front brake provided a lack of feel and was really wooden.

I’ve since bought a new master cylinder from a Yamaha YZF-R125 to be fitted, which is supposed to be a better suit for the caliper and provide much better response which I’m looking forward to trying out.

As this bike was built with some track days in mind, it’s booked in to have a run out at Brands Hatch towards the end of September when some more miles have been put on the clock. I’m not sure how it’s going to fare against what is most likely to be sports 600’s and litre bikes, on the straights especially - but I’m pretty sure I know who’ll have the biggest grin.

25

BOOK REVIEWS

AUTUMN PASTIMES

It’s that time of year again, the nights are drawing in and bike riding opportunities become restricted. Autumn is always a good opportunity to dig out some biking books and live the motorcycling adventure in your head even if you can’t get out on the road…

H

ere are a couple of ideas for a starter to get you inspired.

I have just read Graham Field’s Ureka. The book tells of Graham’s extended trip across Europe taking in Turkey, Iraq, Georgia, Bulgaria, Albania amongst others, eventually heading for the ‘Stans’.

This is a long and challenging trip in many ways, particularly on a KLR650 bought off ebay for 700 quid.

Once you start venturing into these territories you encounter all sorts of obstacles, visa issues, police, language barriers, where to stay, what to eat. Issues that don’t normally crop up when on a two week tour around the well ridden routes of Western Europe. I have the utmost respect for anyone who takes off alone for these parts, particularly when places like Iran and Iraq are in the equation.

Ureka is written as day to day account, diary style which nicely captures the ups and downs of a trip of 26

this magnitude. Most holiday bike trips involve some kind of planned itinerary, time wise, often with prebooked accommodation. This is normally necessary purely so precious holiday time is not wasted riding round looking for somewhere to stay each day.

However with a trip such as Graham’s, time is not a major factor. An extra day here or there is not a problem. If he gets lost, it’s part of the adventure. And that’s the real difference from a motorbike holiday to an adventure. The fact that he falls off, breaks down, is shuffled from pillar to post to process visas, is all part of the story. Graham documents his trip in a free flowing, honest style, with plenty of humour and some well observed comments on the places and people he meets. Rather than delivered in a dry style, he lets you know his thoughts as the day develops. In typical biker style, these aren’t always particularly PC, which is refreshing.

What really comes across well is that some places you expect to be fantastic don’t always live up to the hype and then around the corner you will discover something that blows you away. Graham really manages to deliver a sense of what it is like to travel alone, on an untechnical bike, struggling to work the satnav, charge a phone and living simply, day to day.

His character observations are particularly powerful.

It is a well documented fact that when travelling alone you meet far more people and interact with the locals much more than when as a couple or group. It takes some doing though, and there are moments in October-November 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

BOOK REVIEWS the book when you feel a bit sorry for Graham, alone in a far off spartan hotel room with a couple of beers.

But, on reading Ureka, I guess this is a big part of the attraction of this kind of travel. You never know what each day will hold, and the great times make up for the not so good.

Ureka is well worth getting hold of and reading. Like many of these adventure trips, it’s something many of us are unlikely to attempt on a bike ourselves. But just reading about it makes you want to jump on a bike and try something a little different.

Order your signed copy now for £12.99 including p&p in the UK www.grahamfield.co.uk

S

am Manicom has written several acclaimed motorbike travel books. He has just released his second audio book, Under Asian Skies.

The audio book version tells the story of Sam’s two year journey across Australia, New Zealand, South

East Asia and on to India, Nepal, Pakistan and Iran. An epic journey all in all, both as a bike trip but also as a significant part of someone’s life. Something we seem to have lost in our culture is hospitality to strangers that we meet. Under Asian Skies is full of colourful characters, many of whom invite Sam to share ”chai” as he is passing through. A lot of these people have very little in the way of wordly possessions, but will happily spend time to share a few moments with someone they will probably never meet again. In our hurried and stressed western world, these simple pleasures often seem to get forgotten. A two year trip to these regions is always going to involve plenty of highs and lows and Sam has more than his fair share of these, he deals with these in his own calm and optimistic way.

Not everyone makes the time or has the inclination to read an actual book these days so an audio book is a wonderful way of soaking up the atmosphere of the trip whilst doing something else.

Listen in the bath, on the train or while stuck on the M25 and let Sam’s self- narrated story take you off to more exciting places! The production is excellent and Sam’s smooth tones capture the moment splendidly. I can thoroughly recommend grabbing a copy of this.

It can be obtained via Sam’s website www.sam-manicom.com with links to download sites such as iTunes.

WIN A SIGNED COPY OF UREKA We have arranged for Graham to send a signed copy of Ureka to one lucky SEB reader. If you fancy a copy of this excellent book, simply answer the following question. What was the title of Graham’s first motorcycle travel book?

Write in to the address at the front of the magazine or email nick@ southeastbiker.co.uk by the end of November. You should receive your copy in time for Christmas.

Competition closes November 30th 2014.

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

27

TECHNIQUE

LIFTING A FALLEN MOTORBIKE Unfortunately at some point the dreaded day may come where we find ourselves faced with our pride and joy laying on the deck.

Simon Thorne gives a few pointers.

THINK Take the time to think before lifting a motorbike, it will be pretty damn hard and heavy! There are many possible ways you could injure yourself if you’re not prepared so you want to make sure you’re in top shape with the right technique before you even begin this mammoth task.

The last thing you want to do is put your back out!

ARE YOU OKAY? • • • • •

Are you hurt?

Are you out of danger?

Can you lift safely?

Do you have any pre-existing injury?

Can you get additional help rather than lift alone?

HOW’S THE BIKE?

• Make sure the bike is switched off using the cut off switch • Turn off the fuel supply if possible • Is there any fuel or oil on the ground?

• Are there any parts/sharp objects on the floor?

• Move yourself into a squat position, feet out in front solidly on the ground keeping your knees bent and back straight • When lifting the bike, make sure you use your large leg muscles, keeping your arms straight and taking small steps backwards

HOW TO LIFT: HEAVY BIKE • Assuming that all is well, put the bike in gear • Turn the handle bars to full lock, the front wheel pointing toward the ground • With your back to the bike, sit gently on the motorcycle seat in a squat position so that the bike can gently rock and pivot underneath you • Place one hand on the handlebar and one hand on a fixed part of the bike (ie, the frame) • Beware of hot parts of the bike especially exhaust and engine 28

October-November 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

TECHNIQUE

• Keep your whole torso straight with your abs tight • Carefully lift to the top but not too far, otherwise you and the bike might fall over the other side!

• Where possible, put the bike on a side stand and check over for damages so that the bike can be ridden safely again.

• Remember the motorcycle may not start easily straight away.

• Using the strength from your legs, keeping your abs tight, lift the bike, pushing forwards with small steps

HOW TO LIFT: LIGHTER BIKE • Put the bike in gear • Hold onto the handlebars with both hands • DO NOT lift using your lower back, ALWAYS lift from the legs

ASSESS THE FALL

• Get yourself into a squat position facing the bike with your feet hip width apart and your back straight South East Biker Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk

• Before you head off on the bike again, look around you to understand why you fell off in the first place • Don’t forget that making mistakes is part of LEARNING • Even the most experienced trail and green lane riders will make mistakes • Analyse any mistake you have made to prevent it happening again Think about the possibility that you might need a few more lessons to refresh your skills – contact www.freestylebikes.co.uk for more information.

29

TOURING Becs waiting for the men to get ready.

A BLAST TO BELGIUM

Living in the South East, it’s easy to take for granted the fact we can easily nip across or under the Channel for anything from a day trip to the start of a trans global expedition. So when Nick and Debbie Tunstill were looking at a venue for a long weekend, someone came up with the suggestion of the Bikers’ Loft Groenedijk near Ostend, an old favourite for many southern bikers.

I

t’s a common enough trip, but a great introduction to the delights of foreign motorcycling for new riders and a blast for those who have ventured over before.

With fresh tyres, chain and sprockets and a serviced bike, what could go wrong…well quite a lot actually. The week before was spent trying to work out why the Tiger was overheating and refusing to start when hot. We set off for the Eurotunnel with our early morning rendezvous organised, the last services before the tunnel — which I managed to ride straight past and arrive at the tunnel with no way of turning back! Eventually we met up with the others and booked in.

The next problem was the 30

immobiliser on Pete’s CBR600.

Apparently the electronic security systems at the tunnel play havoc with certain bike ignition systems and we had to resort to bump starting the Honda as we moved from check in to customs to passport control. Looking good so far…

Parking was a bit of a walk

If you haven’t used the tunnel before, it’s a pretty straightforward experience. You are not worried about dodgy weather as you are herded onto a bike only carriage and simply sit next to your machine for half an hour and plan your adventures.

The doors open and we all roll out onto French soil. Or we thought we had, a glance in the mirrors as we exited the tunnel slip road showed me we were two down already.

Pulling over into the services and calling up those missing in action, we received the unfortunate news that Pete’s Honda had a fried battery. So Simon and Pete headed off in search of a Honda dealer in Calais. We took the opportunity to refuel and Colin managed to break a key off in the lock of one of his Varadero panniers. “Anything important in there, mate?”“Just my clothes for the weekend”, came the response. So far this was running like a slick military operation, and it was only 10 o’clock.

Those of us still mobile headed north east avoiding the dull

October-November 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

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17/03/2014 17:33 31

TOURING

The Loft was a former factory

motorway system. It’s only a couple of hours to Ostend at a gentle pace and the route follows some rather picturesque canals. A relaxed lunch in a beautiful, unspoilt town square gets you in the continental mood and leaves a short afternoon jaunt to the Loft.

The Bikers’ Loft is a unique place. A converted old factory on the outskirts of the town of Oudenburg, it’s motorbikes only beyond the gate and you receive a warm welcome and a cold beer as you check in. You park your bike inside the building and literally outside your door, cool. Don’t expect en-suite this and complimentary that in your room. It’s basic and comfortable. Communal showers and no TVs in the building, bliss.

The Loft consists of an accommodation area, bar and self-service kitchen with a fascinating motorbike museum, run by a lovely guy who owns almost all the bikes in it and is only too happy to chat about motorbikes for hours. He was so nice in fact that he came out with some jeans for Colin, to spare his blushes!

At the front of the bar is a large seating area and a barbecue. What more could you want for the weekend? How about some live music?

The Saturday night we were there it was a female, American, Ramones tribute band. You either love them or hate them, I loved them… the others didn’t, hey ho, let’s go!

Simon and Pete arrived with a fresh battery and a thirst, and soon caught up.

The Sunday plan was a ride to the beautiful city of Bruges, only a forty minute trip, but a fabulous place to pass a few hours and have a leisurely lunch of mussels and frites.

Of course, as it was a plan, it went wrong.

Colin’s Varadero had a flat rear tyre, excellent.

32

Impressive museum

Impressive bar

How many bikers does it take to fix a tyre?

After some time spent with various puncture kits, sealants and, of course, plenty of advice from all the bikers present, Peter K managed to fix it well enough to set off for Bruges.

If you are partial to chocolate, Bruges is the place to visit. It also boasts some fantastic old architecture and a canal system, proper tourist stuff.

We had discovered it was Ray’s birthday but had deliberately kept quiet all day so he thought we were miserable bastards. Eventually Birthday Boy October-November 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

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15/03/2013 15:19 33

TOURING worth making once in a lifetime to get a sense of the losses inflicted on the Allies a century ago.

Our train back on Monday was late afternoon so we again set out in the direction of Ypres to visit Hill 62 and Sanctuary Wood, where there is a museum and a trench and tunnel system.

Again, fascinating and very moving.

Just outside the Eurotunnel entrance is City Europe, personally my idea of hell on earth, but if you like shopping, well worth a visit.

Running a bit short of time, we checked in at the Tunnel and then headed off for the train.

Or perhaps not! As half the party rode off, my Tiger and Pete’s Honda (again) refused to start, so the motorists in the check in queue had the amusing spectacle of fully kitted bikers in sweltering temperatures pushing around large motorcycles trying to start them.

Luckily, kind of, the train was delayed, which gave us time to sort the bikes, have a coffee and finally head back to Blighty. It was such a contrast coming back to be greeted by bad tempered, impatient, UK drivers. One thing both Debbie and I both noticed was that in three days’ riding, we didn’t see one driver on their phone or texting. Funny isn’t it what an obsession these devices seem to be for drivers in this country.

If you fancy a trip to the Bikers’ Loft, check out www. grd.be/bikersloft.

It’s a brilliant biker venue, and a great introduction to European motorcycling for those continental virgins.

The Loft is a North European bikers’ hub, very sociable and many use it a stop off en route to longer trips.

Set the satnav to avoid motorways or pick out the windy bits on the map.

Jonno getas excitited about the evening’s entertainment

in the evening we presented him with a pair of rather tasteful chocolate tits and forced him to buy a large round.

I have always wanted to visit the Menin Gate at Ypres, where the Last Post is played during a ceremony each evening at 8. The others were up for it as well and we decided to take a run out to this famous city that was flattened during World War One. It’s about an hour from the Loft, set sat navs to avoid motorways and you will find some beautiful, empty roads. True, there is not much in the way of twisties, but after the over crowded, pot holed excuses for roads we endure over here, it’s brilliant to ride along deserted, smooth tarmac, where you can see for miles and spot any obstacles.

As you approach Ypres, military cemeteries start to appear, and if, like me, you have only seen these on TV or in books, you start to get a sense of what this area means in European history. The Menin Gate is an incredible memorial to those missing in the fierce fighting around Ypres. It is built on the road that thousands of allied soldiers took on their way to the front. Bearing in mind that this monument is within a couple of hours’ ride of The Menin Gate Calais, I think it’s a trip well 34

October-November 2014 • South East Biker Magazine

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35

South East Biker Events OCTOBER EVENTS

Oct 4-5 BMRC Club Racing, Brands Hatch Oct 5 All Day Hornet Swarm & Hondas, Ace Café Oct 5 Sidcup & DMCC Ltd, Canada Heights Oct 5 Trials: Essex & Suffolk Border MCC Oct 5 World Superbikes, Magny Cours Oct 11 NG Road Racing Club, Thruxton Oct 12 All Day Brit V’s, Vincent & Velocette, Ace Cafe Oct 12 South of England RealClassic Motorcycle Show Ardingly Oct 12 Brightona Oct 12 MotoGP Japan Oct 12 Waltham Chase Trials MCC, Petersfield Oct 12 Kent & Sussex MCC, Hourne Farm, Crowborough Oct 12 Danebury Grasstrack Racing Club, Stockbridge Oct 17-19 British Superbikes, Brands Hatch Oct 18-19 The 21st Carole Nash Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show Oct 19 MotoGP Australia Oct 19 South Eastern Enduro Combine, Popham Airfield

Oct 25

Oct 26 Oct 26 Oct 26 Oct 31

Kempton Park Motorcycle Jumble All Day Rat Bike Review, Ace Café MotoGP Malaysia Trials, Southampton & District MCC, Sherfield English, Hants Halloween Special Bike Night, Ace Café

NOVEMBER EVENTS

Nov 2 Nov 2 Nov Nov Nov Nov Nov Nov Nov Nov Nov Nov

World Superbikes, Losail All Day Ton Up Day – England Expects!, Ace Café 2 Sidcup & DMCC Ltd, Canada Heights 9 MotoGP Spain 9 Poppy Day Parade & Service, Ace Café 9 Ring of Red around the M25 15 Trials, Ringwood MC & LCC, Ringwood 16 Super Moto & Scramblers Day, Ace Café 22-30 Motorcycle Live, NEC 23 Basingstoke MCC, Frilsham Quarry, Berkshire 23 Ariel Bike Day, Ace Café 30 Bike Day, Ace Café

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.

Dec/Jan entries to be in by 4th Nov 2014. Entries are limited to first come first in.

IF YOU ARE A BIKER AND RUN A NON-BIKE RELATED BUSINESS, CONTACT US FOR SPECIAL RATES • BIKER BUSINESS

He’s the man!

Bring your bike to the man you can trust.

• • • • • • •

Small independent workshop Motorcycle MOT station Servicing, repairs and tyre fitting Modifications, rebuilds and project work Ultrasonic carburettor cleaning Authorised number plate supplier Over 30 years experience

Ian Scott is...

Telephone 01424 893543 Mobile 07866 289722 ian@themotorcycleman.co.uk www.themotorcycleman.co.uk Unit 2, Mount Pleasant Garage, Ninfield Road Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex TN39 5JG

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TRADE SERVICES

NEW BIKES Cooper BMW Motorrad Longfield Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3UE Tel: 0845 601 8593

Servicing & Repairs Collection & Delivery

MAIDSTONE HONDA

Wivelsfield Green, near Haywards Heath Tel: 07799 852736 Notchyracing13@gmail.com

New demo bikes available to try.

Sales, Servicing, Clothing and parts.

Aylesford Wharf, Forstal Road, Aylesford, Kent, ME20 7XA Tel: 01622 713950 www.maidstonehonda.co.uk

The exciting new Honda dealership in mid-Kent. Open since September 2013, we have already established ourselves as a destination for Honda motorcyclists throughout Kent and throughout the South East.

Haslemere Motorcycles

Petersfield Road, Whitehill, Hampshire GU35 9AR Sales: 01420 488290 Main Suzuki, Yamaha dealer with good quality used motorcycles and Harleys. Test ride the new GSXR600 or try some of our great 125’s on sale.

Kent Motorcycles

Dover Road (A2), CT4 6SA Tel: 01227 832601

Everything Honda, New demo’s available to test ride, CBF 125, CBR 250 and VFR. MOT’s, Servicing, Clothing and Accessories.

USED BIKES J. S. Gedge (Honda)

406-410 Old London Road, Hastings, E. Sussex. TN35 5BB Tel: 01424 423708

SERVICING Fastlane Motorcycles 88 Priory Street, Tonbridge, Kent, TN9 2AH Tel: 01732 363630 Email: fastlanebikes@aol.com We have a wide range of Used bikes, Clothing, Servicing, MOT’s, Parts,Track and Race Preparation.

MOTORCYCLE DOCTOR 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.

CLOTHING GetGeared

The one stop Honda shop.

290 Kingston Road,

INTA Motorcycles

Leatherhead, Surrey KT22 7QE

99-107 Upper Stone Street, Maidstone. Kent. ME15 6HE Tel: 01622 688727 or 01622 765791

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

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K&S

MOTORCYCLES

Tel: 01372 225100 Everything you need under one roof or check out our extensive website.

www.getgeared.co.uk

Helmet City Waylands Farm, Tatsfield, TN16 2JT Tel: 01959 577911 Email: sales@helmetcity.co.uk Large range of Helmets, clothing and accessories in stock.

Outlets in Chichester and Dorset. www.helmetcity.com

TRAINING Sussex Motorbikes Tyres, Servicing, MOTs, Repairs, Sales & Training www.sussexmotorbikes.co.uk CBT, DAS, ERS with bike and kit hire available. We are an established training centre that can take you from CBT to advanced training.

MTS SUSSEX Motorcycle Training for Sussex, Surrey and Kent • Taster Sessions • CBT • A2/DAS • • ERS • Advanced • Back to Biking • • Free Assessments • Ladies Only Days •

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

MISCELLANEOUS HOLIDAY SAFE

Motorcycle Travel Insurance 0845 2307 622 www.Holidaysafe.co.uk/SEB

Viking Motorcycle Seats 27A Heaver Trading Estate, Ash, Kent TN15 7HJ Tel: 07977 874075 Seat modifications, Gel pads, re-covering and embroidery www.viking-motorcycle-seats.co.uk

October-November 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