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ISSUE
ISSUE 58 • AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2018
A TALE OF TWO HUSKIES
A SHOT IN SIGHT MOTO-WARD AT 25 TRUE MOTORCYCLE ART REVIEWS • FEATURES • EVENTS • SPORTS SEB: ON FULL THROTTLE SINCE 2008 southeastbiker.co.uk
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STARTING GRID
Editor scribes Ten years ago, just as the Credit Crunch was kicking in and with global meltdown imminent, a small group of us in the pub had the bright idea of starting a motorcycle magazine. In fact, the original plan was to produce a newsletter listing local events and biker services. But, by the time the first issue came out in September 2008, it had turned into a 40-page professionally printed colour magazine. A decade on and we have seen many changes in the way we communicate with each other and in motorcycling as well, of course. The enjoyment we all get from riding bikes remains the same and we have managed to preserve the original ideas behind SEB. It’s still predominantly a printed product, providing information and entertainment (hopefully) to anyone interested in motorbikes. And it’s still free! All our contributors are proper everyday bikers, with normal jobs, not professional journalists and this gives the magazine a real-world feel. Those who ride bikes are often tagged as belonging to the “motorcycling community”. It’s a generalisation, but in our experience most bikers tend to help each other out and enjoy being part of a very diverse group but with a common interest. Whether it’s for a charity event, a rally, a club get together, sports meeting, bike show, touring or even just out for a run with mates, simply being interested in a machine with two wheels and an engine brings people together. We wouldn’t have got this far without all the support from our advertisers, regular and occasional contributors and our readers of course. So, a big thank you to everyone and we look forward to the next decade! All the best Nick
Visit southeastbiker.co.uk for events list CONTACT US ADVERTISING AND Debbie Tunstill, email: debs@southeastbiker.co.uk GENERAL ENQUIRIES Tel: 07913 758955 EDITOR & PUBLISHER: Nick Tunstill, email: nick@southeastbiker.co.uk PRODUCTION: Dean Cook: deancook@magazineproduction.com PRINTING: Gemini Print, Shoreham-by-Sea, Sussex.
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© 2018 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.
South East Biker Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk
Contents 4 Evolution of a Motorcycle
8 A TALE OF TWO HUSKIES 13 Motoward at 25 15 Bikes In Bus Lanes
17 TRACKSIDE MARSHALLING 20 The Adventure Travel Film Festival 22 True Motorcycle Art 24 A Shot In Sight 25 Cops And Robbers 26 Two Go Despatching 30 The Overland Event 32 Brighton Speed Trials 3
MOTORCYCLE HISTORY
Evolution of a motorcycle HEADLINE S H O R E H A M - B Y- S E A
Following on from Les Smith’s Theory of Motorcycle Evolution Part 1, we present the final part of his thesis!
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t’s not just the purity of the basic motorcycle design andAllsopp the development John goes inprogress search of his we have seen over the last hundred years that intrigue me though, other aspects of hatever you might thinkOne of the hipster motorcycle life fascinate me too. of my most prominent subculture subjects I believe of interest that several over the years has been thingscoaching, can be said mainly in itsmotorcycle favour where it meshes road riders. with I spent motorcycling. most of my There working are no life signs on a motorcycle, that it is a flash lots in of the it training pan. This bike is cops, clearly shown paramedics, by thethe massive fire bike draw riders of both and the some Bike Shed government MC in Shoreditch agency bods as well too! as ‘Don’t the incredibly tell em ya popular name Pike.’ BSMC show that I attended last year. Additionally, Specialising the in progressive way that manufacturers road riding andhave embraced things like VIP the escort movement training by not creating to mention bikes like the off-road Triumph skills,Bobber I’ve seen underlines all sorts ofits riders relevance. and ability Anything levels. that Having might been draw involved people in (who training otherwise and coaching might bikers not for consider some two years, wheels the methods at all) into usedthe have wonderful always been world ofof interest motorcycling to me. Like is a good many thing, bikers,both I’ve read for them a shed and load theof rest books of us. and Also, magazine the movement’s articles and connection watchedwith plenty high of profile the YouTube eventsstuff like the (some Distinguished good and some Gentleman’s bad), Ride and there and latterly is a lot the of info Ride out ofthere. the Ruperts But for me, promotes one motorcycle a positive training image genre of motorcyclists seems to shine in general through.inItthe brings eyesme of back the public to theintheory general. of this ‘survival So, withofits the emphasis fittest’ tack; on style thereit are necessarily crossovers follows between that Darwin’s peopletheories interested andinthe thisway need we use somewhere our bikes (and to access cars) too. all the What accoutrements I’m talking about they need. is how we ride and control our machines and methods Cafe Racer we use are an every independent day. Brighton(-ish) based I’m going company to focus whoon started one method aroundbecause 7 years ago when atyou in Hove. read into Theythe have many justother moved ‘Codes’, into new
4
it can be aligned with what I believe to be the
purest,hipster most common sense and perhaps most inner on the South Coast…
instinctive, almost subconscious ability to assess and act second by second. I’m going to look at premises, 4 months with aim of the way inaround which riders and ago, drivers arethe trained to being a higher able level to hold for road a better ridingselection using what andisrange oftenof stock as called ‘advanced well as offering riding skills’. free parking, changing rooms, Take the coffee British andPolice. hosting I know events. I’ve used the ‘P’ word When butyou please visit carry the shop on. It’s younot discover a bad word. that it’s certainly It’s what Inot know a case about, of style and itover provides substance. a good example Cafe Racer and are framework the UK’sto leading work with. supplier Notof only retro am I motorcycle and vintageobsessed style motorcycle I’m brainwashed apparel and too. accessories I was trained to keep to ride you in the safeArmy and stylish and little on did I your classic know at the bike, time,café but Iracer, was being bobber, programmed brat style custom with Roadcraft, or scrambler. the They are official stockists for Belstaff police system Motorcycle of Jackets and Barbour Internationalcontrol. motorcycle as well as being the first dealer to introduce The way Deus in which Ex Machina clothing to the UK . the They police alsohad stock established brands such as Davida, and trained Bell,coached Roland Sands Design and Biltwell alongside drivers andexciting riders emerging brands such as Hedon has been and tweaked Resurgence Gear. over Thethe shop years, is run by friendly and enthusiastic bikethe but nuts principles with an in-depth knowledge of all the products remain the they same offer. asThe they Café did Racer when a Bike Night on the Wednesday of the the ‘System’ month.and All details on these events can be found on Facebook Roadcraft were under... born in 1937. That year, the Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police appointed a gentleman called Lord Cottenham,
August-September 2018 • South East Biker Magazine
MOTORCYCLE HISTORY (a well-known racing driver of the day) to train driving instructors in advanced methods of driving. Lord Cottenham’s instructions allowed drivers to be in control of any situation they faced. By using an ordered system of car and motorcycle control, they could ensure their vehicle was in the right place at the right time, travelling at the right speed and in the correct gear to clear a hazard safely. The ‘System’ was, and still is, the bedrock of service and police motor vehicle driver and rider training in the UK. Nowadays the System has been adopted by many. It is used extensively by advanced driving and riding groups. The reason it has stood the test of time (survived natural selection) is simple; it works. Although many would claim to be ‘the guru’ and try to create new ways of training and learning, it nearly always transpires that the new scheme or method is, in reality, a thinly-veiled copy of the 1937 ‘System’ designed by Lord Cottenham. I took my motorcycle test in the Army back in the early 80s, which was, in fact, excellent grounding. I was sent on a three-week intensive course, and along with my fellow squaddie biker rookies I was drilled and brainwashed to follow the System on motorcycle control. I didn’t know
what it was at the time but soon learned. The System is delivered in the form of a book, the Roadcraft manual. This book was fed to me on a daily basis and, to be fair, I lapped it up. It was my first experience of the Roadcraft book, and it all made perfect sense. In fact, whenever I’ve read Roadcraft since, and believe me I’ve read it a few times, it still makes sense. In fact, the whole book is just common sense dressed around hazards and other traffic and road situations and how to deal with them. It’s not the sort of book you would take on holiday, although some do. I often liken it to a Haynes Manual for a Morris Minor. To service the Morris Minor you need it. Similarly, you need Roadcraft to learn the System and survive on the roads. But it’s not the most riveting read.
South East Biker Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk
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MOTORCYCLE HISTORY The reason it works is there is a logic and purity instinctively written into the process of vehicle control which has given the System the DNA to win through and knock back the many who have purported to better it. For example, while at a track day at Brands, I was listening to Shane ‘Shakey’ Byrne speaking to a group of riders. He spoke about how he assesses turns and hazards on a track. He talked about position on the track and the assessment of speed and the need to get the entry speed correct and the need to be in the right gear. He was applying the System in his way. It is his very own evolution of the System, but the System nonetheless, and let’s face it Shane Byrne is quite handy on a bike, so people listen. Now I’m sure that racers of his calibre have a considerable amount of natural skill and ability, which is why they are where they are, but his view of hazard approach mirrored that of the 1937 Roadcraft book, why? Well because it’s the purest form, and while machines have evolved and speeds of bikes have increased, the skill required by a rider to determine things such as corner entry speed are based on basic common sense and instinct and the evolution on techniques from the early pioneers of motorcycling. A flawed techniqueof his John Allsopp goes in search
would not have survived. Natural selection will dismiss things that don’t work. Thankfully the latest edition of Roadcraft is an evolution of the original. I’ve worked with many of the new edition’s contributors over the years, and it is full of good polished advice for the modern motorcyclist, from 1937. We humans are said to be creatures of habit and averse to change, and I think that is right. I like to think that we are sceptical of change for the sake of it but that we can accept change for the better. I learned very early on in my bike training career that the worse thing an instructor can do to a student is to try to change them dramatically. Mind you, if they were to ride like a (*#+¥) they would be told! If you knock the natural skill from a student, it can take hours and hours for them to become comfortable again. For me, the best way I found is to make the best of what’s there. Use what the student already has and steer it to their best advantage and facilitate their evolution as a rider. Let the good traits of a rider’s ability flourish by selecting the good stuff, while letting the bad stuff fade. Naturally. Progress through natural selection. Keep iton up-right. inner hipster the South Coast…
HEADLINE S H O R E H A M - B Y- S E A
W
hatever you might think of the hipster subculture I believe that several things can be said in its favour where it meshes with motorcycling. There are no signs that it is a flash in the pan. This is clearly shown by the massive draw of both the Bike Shed MC in Shoreditch as well as the incredibly popular BSMC show that I attended last year. Additionally, the way that manufacturers have embraced the movement by creating bikes like the Triumph Bobber underlines its relevance. Anything that might draw people (who otherwise might not consider two wheels at all) into the wonderful world of motorcycling is a good thing, both for them and the rest of us. Also, the movement’s connection with high profile events like the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride and latterly the Ride of the Ruperts promotes a positive image of motorcyclists in general in the eyes of the public in general. So, with its emphasis on style it necessarily follows that people interested in this need somewhere to access all the accoutrements they need. Cafe Racer are an independent Brighton(-ish) based company who started around 7 years ago at in Hove. They have just moved into new
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EKAM HP 0518.indd 1
premises, around 4 months ago, with the aim of being able to hold a better selection and range of stock as well as offering free parking, changing rooms, coffee and hosting events. When you visit the shop you discover that it’s certainly not a case of style over substance. Cafe Racer are the UK’s leading supplier of Would youmotorcycle like to be a and retro and vintage style apparel accessories keep you safe and on-road stylish on bettertorider, improve your classic bike, café racer, bobber, brat style and customanticipation or scrambler. They are expand official stockists for Belstaff Motorcycle Jacketsskills? and Barbour your roadcraft International as well as being the first dealer to If you are considering an enhanced riding introduce Deus Ex Machina clothing to the UK . course, East Kent Advanced Motorcyclists They also stock established brands such as offer cost-effective guidance leading Davida, Bell, Roland Sands Design and Biltwell to the IAM Advanced Motorcycle alongside exciting emerging brands such as Test under the IAM’s Hedon and Resurgence Gear. ‘Advanced Rider Course’ The shop is run by friendly andpackage. enthusiastic bikeFor nutsyour with FREE an in-depth knowledge of all the assessment contact products they offer. EKAM today and quote ‘SEB’. The Café Racer a Bike Night on the Wednesday of the month. All details on these events can be found on Facebook under...
Is your riding up to scratch?
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August-September 2018 • South East Biker Magazine 16/05/2018 09:10
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MOTORCYCLE REVIEW
A TALE OF TWO HUSKIES Neil Allen tries out a pair of supercool road bikes from a manufacturer more widely-known for their off-road machines…
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t’s not often you get a chance to take two Huskies out to stretch their legs. With thanks to Freestyle Bikes, it wasn’t quite getting my winter gear on to hop on the back of a sled but instead riding the stylish new Husqvarna 401 range, the Svartpilen and Vitpilen. Since KTM’s purchase of the Husqvarna Motorcycle brand from BMW in 2013, they’ve been quietly producing some excellent offroad bikes, along with the crazy road going 701 Supermoto. What I find admirable about the latest bikes being produced by both KTM and Husqvarna is they have identity, a character that most modern bikes now seem to lack.
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August-September 2018 • South East Biker Magazine
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MOTORCYCLE REVIEW
The styling may be an acquired taste for some, but as Husqvarna describe this range as ‘reduced to the bare functional essentials, free of overly extravagant design embellishments that distract from the ride with simple yet progressive design’, it’s hard to disagree. Both models share the same trellis frame, along with the 43bhp single cylinder engine from the KTM390, upside down forks and brake setup of 320mm disc and four-piston calliper, with a 230mm disc and single piston calliper at the back. With these similarities, how different could the rides be? The Svartpilen (Swedish for ‘black arrow’) was first up. It is the one I’d been eyeing up since the concept was first released in 2014, and what was great to see is the final production model remained almost identical to the concept. The Svartpilen is a sort of scrambler/flat track/ roadster hybrid, with wide bars, 17” spoked wheels fitted with some rugged Pirelli Scorpion Rally tyres. This particular bike was fitted with the added extras of bar end mirrors and a tidy little Akrapovic exhaust, perfect! What was immediately noticeable was…this was going to be fun! At a claimed 150kg dry weight
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and what felt like a very short wheelbase, 43bhp was enough power to work with for some backroad hoonery and riding about town. I’ve always preferred the riding position of wide handlebars as opposed to clip-ons, and for what seemed a fairly small bike, the 835mm seat height gave a good vantage point. The design was clean, a single digital clock positioned in the centre of the bars, with the ignition nestled at the front of the petrol tank (which creatively included a luggage rack mounted on the tank, pretty handy given the lack of space and simplistic design to the rear of the bike). The only thing I didn’t enjoy about the styling is the same issue I have with all modern production bikes that have a short seat and minimalist design, where the need for the number plate and rear mudguard is mounted over the rear wheel for regulatory purposes….but that’s nothing an aftermarket a tail tidy wouldn’t sort. Making its way through the villages of East Sussex the Akro exhaust was fruity enough to provide a bark without being obnoxious. The KTM 390 engine revving away was surprisingly punchy, once you get the sweetest exhaust bark at 5k revs, you soon get that single cylinder surge of power and start making your way through
August-September 2018 • South East Biker Magazine
MOTORCYCLE REVIEW the gears, catching the shift light in your near peripherals on the dash as a polite notice to hook into the next gear. There is enough power here to give you a grin and yet not worry about getting into trouble with the law. Being so light and with the short wheelbase, the handling was agile and as responsive as you’d expect from something this size. I was really expecting the power to seem a bit underwhelming on larger A roads, but it was certainly capable of lining up overtakes with ease and the ABS-equipped brakes are sharp enough with two finger braking to ready you for the next set of bends. I’ve spent a lot of time riding supermoto pit bikes around go-kart tracks recently, which I can only liken to riding a BMX with an engine, which is the same feeling that the Svartpilen filled me with! Next up was the Vitpilen (Swedish for white arrow. See what they did there?), while sharing a majority of the parts, engine, frame, the Vitpilen is the ‘café racer’. The clip-ons are probably the most obvious visible difference while retaining the same footpeg position and seat height; the clipons immediately throw you into more of a hunch. Where the shift light and small dash were almost out of your eyeline in the upright position of the Svartpilen, it feels like your head is almost over
it on the Vitpilen, staring the shift light in the eye this time. The positioning was fine for my 5 foot 10 and a bit frame, but I can imagine if you were anything over 6 foot you may find yourself a little more cramped. Fitted with the sportier Metzeler M5 tyres and the altered riding position, you are still encouraged to throw the bike into corners but in a contrasting way to the Svartpilen. This bike came with the standard exhaust and regular
Service • Repairs • Tyres Suspension Set-up MOTs by Appointment 17 Years Main Dealer Experience
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MOTORCYCLE REVIEW mirror placement – and I have to say I missed both of the upgrades. Not that it affected the overall ride! I thoroughly enjoyed both bikes, riding around town was simple, the bikes were manoeuvrable and also received a lot of attention. I can’t say I’d cherish a long motorway jaunt on either, but that’s not to say they aren’t capable! The seat is firm, and if you were wanting to take a pillion anywhere, I think you’d be getting very cosy. If you still desired the character of the 401 but a bit more power, then the Vitpilen is also available in a 701 version. Being A2 compliant, the Husqvarna’s are available to the younger market. As well as being great bikes to ride, they are making a statement. They look individual; you put on your trendiest bike gear when you’re about to go out as opposed to your one-piece leathers, marking a trend of retro styling that we’ve seen manufacturers adopting in recent years. Biking now seems to be more inclusive than ever, with the Husqvarna 401 range taking its place in the A2 category they are certainly a standout. And priced at £5599 the cost is a little higher, but still in the ballpark of the Yamaha MT-03, KTM Duke 390, Kawasaki Ninja 400, BMW G 310 R, and in my opinion worth every penny.
With many thanks to Freestyle Bikes www.freestylebikes.co.uk. Get in touch with them to arrange a test ride. Photos courtesy of ‘Paul Rideout Photography’ www.Paul-Rideout.co.uk
SPECIFICATIONS
SVARTPILEN • VITPILEN Engine size 375cc 43bhp Engine type Liquid-cooled, 4v, single Frame type Tubular steel trellis Fuel capacity 9.5 litres Seat height 835mm Bike weight 150kg Svartpilen 148kg Vitpilen Front suspension 43mm, WP forks non-adjustable Rear suspension Single WP rear shock, adjustable spring preload Front brake 1 x 320mm disc with ByBre four-piston radial caliper Rear brake 230mm single disc with single-piston caliper Front tyre size 110/70 x 17 Rear tyre size 150/60 x 17
MOTORCYCLE SEATS
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12/05/2015 18:00 August-September 2018 • South East Biker Magazine
BUSINESS FOCUS
MOTO-WARD
ADVENTURE IN STORE FOR 25 YEARS Martin Ward from off-road specialists Moto-Ward fills us in on the first quarter century of his business.
M
oving to the wilds of the Sussex countryside was always going to be a risk, a calculatable risk, but a risk nonetheless. Moto-Ward started business in June 1993 from a small premises in the fashionable commuter belt in Surbiton, Surrey. The country was in the grip of a recession and bike sales were flagging, but as Martin Ward the MD recalls they had a start up advantage that was to ensure a flow of customers seeking out the business from Day 1. “My father retired from the business that he built up over 28 years called Meeten and Ward based in Ewell near Epsom, Surrey. I was only five when he started and things were a lot different then. When he retired in 1993 I bought the stock and re located to Surbiton as the lease at the old shop was up for renewal and they had advised us that they were going to double the rent, making it a non viable position. We didn’t
really want to leave but they gave us no choice and the old shop stayed empty for 5 years after that. We closed the old shop on Saturday night and moved everything the 5 miles to the new shop over the weekend and were ready to open Tuesday morning. It was a logistical nightmare as the shape and size of the new shop being older and more quirky did not make it easy to fit racking”. However the business was up and running and over the next 10 years grew, using up the various rooms, lock ups and cellars as they became available. Then a chance flip through the property section in the Times newspaper revealed a larger premesis in Rudgwick, West Sussex up for sale with two apartments above. The decision was made to move and 15 years on the company is still trading from the building that is nicely located with parking and easy links to the coast and to London. “We still attract some of our old
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BUSINESS FOCUS customers from Surbiton who travel because they appreciate our honest down to earth friendly service and our extensive stock of parts and accessories held in our bright airy showroom, plus of course all the new customers who come up from the Sussex coast, Kent, Hampshire and Berkshire to visit and buy products.” The last few years have been hard on all businesses and the rise of the internet as a shopping avenue hasn’t helped the shops come out of recession as quickly as previously, but the nature of the bike business means that it’s not all about price it’s about getting the right parts when you need them and then the advice and knowledge required to fit. It’s about friendship and understanding, of the sport and its many variations, of biking in general and that whole experience of undertaking a hobby you love with like minded people behind the counter that you can share that with, from the youngest starter to the oldest rider. You can ask Alexa to change your tyre but it’s unlikely she will be up for it and it’s doubtful Ebay will ever sponsor your son or daughter on a bike let alone come and support them at the meetings. This is why a bricks and mortar shop is still important and worth preserving.
Moto-Ward specialises in Yamaha new and old, off road and on road . We have a large stock of spares off the shelf dating back to the late 1960’s and, if it’s not in stock, normally factory sourced parts are just 48 hours away. We also carry, service and accessory items for the other Japanese brands and KTM/Husqvarna. We run a comprehensive workshop service, dealing with everything from bike servicing and repairs, engine rebuilds, suspension service and wheels. We have a team of lads riding in local motocross and enduro events all in the Moto-Ward livery. Our new website is an electronic window into our showroom and offerings and is constantly being updated with new producst and exciting new innovations. We are also active on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. In fact with email, social media, phone and physical shop there are endless ways you can contact, and interact with us 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Check out www.motoward.co.uk or even better, drop in to see them at Victoria House, Church St, Rudgwick, Horsham RH12 3HJ It’s in a lovely part of the south east and a great excuse for a ride in the country.
The adventure starts in store
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MOTOWARD.CO.UK
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Tel: 01403 823222 • Web: www.motoward.co.uk • Email: motowardsales@aol.co.uk
V I C T O R I A H O U S E , C H U R C H S T R E E T, R U D G W I C K , W E S T S U S S E X . R H 1 2 3 H J
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August-September 2018 • South East Biker Magazine 09/01/2017 10:43
LEGAL ASSISTANCE
BIKES IN BUS LANES Q uestion: This may be a silly one, but as someone asked, “what is the situation regarding motorcycles using bus lanes? I know that some local authorities, for example Reading Borough Council, have agreed that motorcycles could use some of the bus lanes, and since it was agreed the motorcycle symbol appears on some but not all. Is there a particular policy and are there any plans to make this a countrywide initiative?” Anon — Berkshire. Answer: Some local authorities are quite switched on to the idea of motorcycles using bus lanes. I know that other authorities around the country are looking at the scheme with a view to introducing it themselves, but it does appear to have gone quiet over the past year or so. The policy that is implemented is often down to the local authority, and they determine what bus lanes are suitable for use by motorcycles
The use of cycle lanes by motorcycles has caused confusion for some time. Articles by MAG, featured in this magazine, have highlighted some of the issues. Tony Carter from Hudgell Solicitors clears up some of the misconceptions.
and those that they would prefer bikes stay out of, and so to this end, those lanes that can be used by bikes are indicated by a sign which will normally show a picture of a bus, taxi, pedal cycle and a motorcycle. If the motorcycle is not included within the sign, then it means that they are prohibited from using
South East Biker Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk
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LEGAL ASSISTANCE that particular lane. How the various authorities come to their final decisions I’m afraid I can’t answer, but there are a number of campaigns around the country (particularly in London) where efforts are being made to allow bikes to use bus lanes as a right. CCTV are the main tools used to catch people using bus lanes which includes motorcycles. If you are caught using a bus lane when you shouldn’t be then the penalty for London is simply a fine. As a point of interest, in 2011 in London alone there were over 216,000 penalty notices issued for contravening bus lane regulations with a fine of £130. The other side of the coin is what if you were involved in a crash whilst you are in a bus lane when you shouldn’t be? Well, firstly, if the crash was caused by someone else’s negligence then it does not prevent you from making a claim for any injury sustained or damage caused as the other driver still has and always will have to observe an appropriate duty of care, and to use the excuse of “I did not expect
to see a motorcycle in a bus lane” does not have any substance. However, it would be no surprise if the defendants (the other side) made a counter allegation that you were in an unlawful part of the road and therefore they should not be held liable, which is where much of the correspondence between your solicitor and the third-party representatives is likely to kick off. As with most things, it all comes down to circumstances, but you may have to accept a percentage of contributory negligence on the basis that had you not been on a part of the road where you shouldn’t have been then the crash probably would not have occurred. So, what is the best advice I can impart on this subject? Read the signs. If it shows a motorcycle then you are allowed to use it. If it doesn’t or you are in doubt, then play safe, keep out. For further advice on this or any other legal matter regarding incidents on the road contact Hudgell solicitors on 0808 301 8554 or www.hudgellsolicitors.co.uk
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August-September 2018 • South East Biker Magazine 23/01/2018 14:39
MASRHALLING
TRACKSIDE MARSHALLING
Have you ever considered undertaking the role of trackside race marshal? Steve Lancaster, chief marshal at Lydden Hill, for the Sidecar Burn-Up and Lord of Lydden races provides more details, in conjucntion with Karen Higgins, the chief marshal at Bemsee.
I
f you’re interested in becoming a motorcycle race marshal, or simply curious, there are several opportunities over the coming months to give it a try at your local regional race circuits (Lydden Hill and Brands Hatch) as the end of season race meetings take us into the autumn months. Here at Lydden Hill, located just off the A2 near Dover, we are bringing back, after a nine-year break, the iconic Lord of Lydden and Sidecar Burn-Up event, over the weekend of 20th and 21st October. In addition, as a separate organised event, Bemsee (The British Motorcycle Racing Club), are holding their end of season race meeting at Brands Hatch over the weekend of 6th and 7th October on the short Indy circuit. Both these circuits provide action packed and varied clubman grade races, with clear close up views of all the action, whether you are hands-on trackside by being a marshal or as a spectator. Both Lydden Hill and Bemsee are on
the lookout for new people who wish to give marshalling a try either this year or in preparation for next season, which could be just the opportunity you are looking for to become directly involved in a dramatic, fast moving, competitive but extremely friendly sport. Both clubs take the safety of our racers very seriously. Marshals play a huge role in limiting the dangers within the sport. They are not only there to clear the incidents as quickly and safely as possible, they are also there for prevention of incidents. They are the eyes and ears for race control and are a primary means of communication for the racers. The marshals are a part of the bigger team that enables racing and, while all of the marshals are volunteers, their role is vital and fully appreciated by the clubs. Some of the marshals have been heard to state that they have ‘the best seat in the house’. I’ve been marshalling for over 20 years and
South East Biker Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk
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MASRHALLING
am still ‘blown away’ by some of the marshal positions around the circuits. Marshalling connects you to racing in a way that being a spectator can never do. It places you at the edge — and sometimes at the heart— of the action! So, good marshal cover will always be an important factor to achieve a successful and safe race meeting. If you’ve ever thought about getting involved on the other side of the fence, then now’s the time to make yourself known. HOW TO MAKE CONTACT AND MAKE YOUR INTEREST KNOWN The first thing is to contact Lydden Hill circuit if you are interested in volunteering for the Lord of Lydden and Sidecar Burn Up event in late October. This is easiest done by clicking on the Lydden Hill events web page for the Lord of Lydden (http://bit.ly/ Lord-of-Lydden) and download the marshal availability form at the bottom of the page. Once filled in this can be emailed or posted back to the circuit. You can also telephone the circuit on 01304 830557 and speak to Josh. For the Brands Bemsee event in early October (please note there maybe limited space for novice marshals at this meeting as it already has adequate numbers), they again can be contacted via the Bemsee web page, www.bemsee.net/ registermarshalofficial or on the club home page. Click on the top marshalling button and follow the links to register your interest. More contact details and options are provided on the web page. If you are new to marshalling, it is likely you will in the first instance be contacted directly so that we can be fully informed when selecting where to put you on corner at any of our meetings, as it is important to us that you feel a part of the team from the very beginning.
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For new novice marshals, Lydden Hill is planning to hold an optional marshal role taster and familiarisation day at Lydden Hill circuit on Saturday 22nd September. Further details and confirmation will be issued closer to the date once the level of interest/takeup is known. SEB plans to run a follow up article on the progress of the novice marshals throughout the end of season events. Following on from this year’s race events, Bemsee generally run an ACU-approved marshals’ training day at Brands Hatch each February prior to the start of the season, so this will be available for new marshals to sign up too for additional training and is well worth the effort on the day. But why not do the familiarisation day and both meetings? Become an old hand at marshalling before the year’s end! When selecting which days/meetings you want to attend as a marshal, there is absolutely no obligation to marshal more meetings or days than you would like to. The Lydden Hill meeting includes qualifying races on Saturday with Sunday as the main race day. The Bemsee Brands meeting will include a Friday test day. Saturday and Sunday are racing days. You are free to chose to just marshal for one day, two days or the whole weekend. Approximately one week before the meeting, we will send out a couple of tickets by post and final instructions which advise you where you need to ‘sign on’ and at what times. Further details on marshal subsistence arrangements are provided on the web sites. REQUIREMENTS You’ll have noticed that the Marshals all wear orange overalls. We would suggest that you give marshalling a try before purchasing any overalls. Orange bibs can generally be
August-September 2018 • South East Biker Magazine
MASRHALLING
provided for your first few meetings, so that you’re visible to the racers whilst trackside and you will also need a good strong sturdy pair of boots to support your ankles, some gloves, for picking up hot bikes and racers, and some waterproofs of some sort. Colours to avoid are red and yellow, you don’t want to inadvertently be mistaken for a flag! A touch of humour and a smidgeon of common sense may prove to be useful assets. We won’t throw you in the deep end. It’s our job, as chief marshals, to support and help you in your role trackside. We will always put you with other, more experienced marshals, and they will act as your mentors. They will show you the ropes and look after you. Please be assured that there is no obligation to do anything you feel uncomfortable with and you can learn at your own pace. Your personal safety, and that of your colleagues, is THE most important thing. We can’t help the racers if we’re in danger ourselves. Never forget, after an incident the rider’s accident has already happened, we can’t turn back time, only by our considered actions can we
contribute towards making the present and future outcomes better. AND FINALLY… I’d like to thank you for taking the time to show an interest and to Bemsee’s chief marshal Karen for her support in collating this article from the Bemsee website. On behalf of Lydden Hill and the Bemsee marshals’ Team, I hope we will be welcoming you into our fold some time soon. We are very proud of our marshals, they really are a great bunch of people, from all different walks of life. For more information contact Josh on 01304 830557
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JOHNEast HARRIS 0518 HP Ad.indd 1 • www.southeastbiker.co.uk South Biker Magazine
16/05/2018 12:26 19
FESTIVAL
THE ADVENTURE TRAVEL FILM FESTIVAL AUGUST 10/ 11/ 12 2018
In 2010 adventure film-maker Austin Vince and travel writer Lois Pryce created the first Adventure Travel Film Festival, a weekend of brilliant films, speakers and adventure travel inspiration. Over the years thousands of film lovers and adventure buffs from around the world have been drawn to its unique atmosphere of camaraderie and secret charm. Kindred spirits such as Ben Fogle and Ross Noble regularly drop in to hang out around the campfire… PHOTOS: DAVID ALTABEV
T
he UK’s finest celebration of real-life adventure returns to London for its eighth year. Bucking the trend of the squarejawed male explorer, this year’s festival will showcase some of the world’s greatest female adventurers alive today. From Sweden, we have Kristina Palten to introduce and discuss her smash-hit film about running alone across Iran. Cyclist and journalist, Rebecca Lowe will be speaking about her solo bicycle ride from the UK to the Middle East (and teaching a bike-packing workshop), and record-breaker, Steph Jeavons will be talking about her SEVENcontinent solo motorcycle journey around the world (yes, that does include Antarctica). Travel writing and journalism workshops are taught by festival founder and author, Lois Pryce and Meera Dattani, editor of Adventure.com.
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THE VENUE The festival returns to the rolling grounds and grand buildings of Mill Hill School on the outskirts of London, where campers enjoy 200 acres of wooded parkland in which to pitch their tents. The grounds are also home to the outdoor workshops and activities ranging from
August-September 2018 • South East Biker Magazine
FESTIVAL
Come to where the action is. Come to Catalonia!
On trails. bushcraft and Bedouin bread-baking to bicycle orienteering, and a chance to try out a Honda motorcycle. Friday and Saturday night films are ‘starlight screenings’ (British weather permitting) — with a stunning view over London’s twinkling cityscape below. The 2018 festival also includes: • Outdoor sessions including: Campfire Cooking; Hammocking Tips; and Yoga for Travellers • Brand new workshops including: Making a Film on your iPhone; Travel Journalism for Today; and Drawing your Travels • 1940s Jeep Rides; The Penny Farthing Display Team; amd The Adventure Travel Quiz Festival founders, Lois Pryce and Austin Vince are veterans of independent travel and have a catalogue of books and films between them. Austin is one of the world’s leading adventure motorcyclists, and has made several TV shows about his journeys. Lois Pryce’s books about her solo motorcycle journeys across Africa, the Americas and Iran have been published throughout the world. She was recently included in the Telegraph’s list of Top 10 Great Female Travellers. To find out more about the Adventure Travel Film Festival please visit www. adventuretravelfilmfestival.com/londonfestival. Tickets are now available from: www.adventuretravelfilmfestival.com/londonfestival/buy-tickets/
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South East Biker Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk
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CUSTOM PAINTED
TRUE MOTORCYCLE ART
F
We are often asked where riders can find specialists in certain motorbike related trades. So, when we saw what a fantastic job Cycle Sprays had done on John Allsopp’s helmet, we were keen to spread the word! John Allsopp reports.
ollowing a tip off from a good friend Elaine, who runs Road Riders Motorcycle Training, I contacted Tony at Cycle Sprays to arrange a visit to them in Horsham. We had initially discussed the possibility of Tony creating a one-off design for my rather tired track day Arai. Talking to Tony it was very quickly clear that he loves bikes as well as being a true craftsman. As he says, “I’ve always loved bikes”. Tony then relayed a list of disparate machines that he had owned from his first, an XS 250 custom, and including a ZX10, Buell S1 Lightning and Harley Street Rod. He has also travelled around Europe on a VF 750, in between cams of course! The fact that he admittedly ‘loves’ his job is self-evident in the pride he takes in his work as well as the outstanding results. Arrayed around him were various meticulously designed and faultlessly executed parts of a wide variety of machines which were a true delight to the eye. Tony himself has been practising his art for thirty years and this experience obviously shines through in every one of his creations. Having originally studied graphic design at Art College, Tony was lucky enough to ‘bump into a guy’. This ‘guy’ was a paint sprayer who guided him in gaining the skills that he has honed ever since. Tony treats every project
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by fire back in 2016. After a period in premises that (due to issues with damp and cold) sounded very unsuitable, Tony was pleased to move to his current premises in collaboration with Rob at New Street Motorcycles. As previously mentioned we had discussed a paint job for my rather drab Arai. Tony proposed as far more elaborate design than I had in mind, which not only demonstrated his truly artistic vision as well as showcasing his amazing skills. The pictures that accompany this article can in no way really allow you to see the fantastic 3D effect that has wowed everyone that has had the privilege of seeing it ‘in the flesh’, so to speak. If you are ever considering getting a helmet, bike or part to be given the benefit of a master craftsman then you should consider Tony first and foremost to make your vision a reality. Contact information and a wide range of Tony’s catalogue can be seen at www.cyclesprays.com.
as unique and it’s clear that he finds no space for compromise in his exceptional standards. Having lived in Cranleigh all his life, Tony was working out of a car business which catastrophically was damaged
August-September 2018 • South East Biker Magazine
CUSTOM MADE
NEW STREET MOTORCYCLES Another specialist motorcycle business with a tie up to Cycle Sprays is a company with a true engineering pedigree. John Allsopp reports.
A
s mentioned in the article on Cycle Sprays, (as part of their collaboration) I spent some time with Rob from New Street Motorcycles. This independent motorcycle shop was established in Horsham in 2008 and is a family business. Initially they offered purely mechanical services but after moving to their current, larger premises in Broadbridge Heath, they were able to expand their workshop and develop their sales department. New Streets approach is built around using old and new school engineering knowledge, techniques and skills, combined with the latest in modern technology. Rob stresses that they are first and foremost engineers and that this means that they are able to work on motorcycles from the turn of the century, right up to the present day.
Due to this engineering expertise, they can construct bespoke pieces for your motorcycle, or build a custom-made machine from the ground up, through their fabrication facilities. Also, due to their collaboration with Cycle Sprays, they can offer any job from simple repairs to full air brushing and pin striping, as well as insurance repairs. Rob is also very passionate about customers’ safety, being reliant on the work they do at the shop. As independent traders, they receive no support from the MCIA, with all the potential benefits that that can bring. However, what they can offer in spades is good ‘old fashioned’ customer service values such as ‘being good to people’ and with, great importance being placed on these values, this has led to retaining loyal customers. Personally I feel that these values are very important in an increasingly corporate, impersonal word. In my opinion the importance of customer service is as pertinent now as it ever was, if not more so. Rob sums up that they are deeply rooted to motorcycling and the lifestyle that comes with it and, as a business, are committed to helping everyone who loves travelling on two wheels to indulge in their passion. Contact www.newstreetmotorcycles.co.uk or call 01403 241103
South East Biker Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk
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BIKER PICS
A SHOT IN SIGHT S M I L E – YO U ’ R E O N C A M E R A
W
e all like photos of our bikes and it’s even better when they are moving and when we are on them! A new business based in West Sussex, called BikerPics, has been out and about taking photos of bikers on the roads and at events. If you see their sign and someone pointing a long lens at you, don’t panic, it’s not some new police initiative. You can check out their website and buy high resolution photos of you and your mates in action. BikerPics regularly donate some of their profits to charities and are happy to talk to you about covering your event. The website contains galleries listing times and places they have been shooting.
Some of the events covered this year are Ride for Autism Brighton to Loomies, Ride4Life Isle of Wight, Llandovery Motorbike Weekend, and Alzheimer’s Memory Ride. Find them on the 16th of September at Ride4Life Hampshire, and help them raise money for Hampshire and Isle Of Wight Air Ambulance (50% of the day’s profit will be donated) BikerPics are offering SEB readers a 10% discount on their products until 31/10/18. Use code ‘seb10
www.bikerpics.co.uk
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August-September 2018 • South East Biker Magazine
COPS AND ROBBERS
I
Andy Carrott, National Vice Chairman, Motorcycle Action Group
n November 2017, on behalf of the Motorcycle Action Group (MAG), I wrote to every Police force in the UK. It was a Freedom of Information (FOI) request about motorcycle theft. We wanted details in respect to the theft of motorcycles, mopeds and scooters; to know what steps the Police are taking to reduce thefts; and whether or not they had a dedicated Motorcycle Crime Officer. Despite every Police force being legally obliged to respond (even if it was to say they don’t have the data), 34% failed to provide an answer. We’re not satisfied with that. Nor are we satisfied that in the areas where motorcycle theft is most prevalent, the Police and authorities are doing sufficient about it. We’re making further requests for information and this time we will report to the Ombudsman any Police authority that fails to respond. The Motorcycle Action Group has publicly condemned what it sees as a complete lack of leadership, understanding and vision by senior figures responsible for dealing with the epidemic of motorcycle and scooter theft. MAG has vowed to hold the government, senior police chiefs and the judiciary to account for the deplorably weak response to this national issue. We’ve all seen the reports of lawless behaviour of gangs of criminals on stolen motorcycles and scooters on the news and in social media, with celebrities like Michael Macintyre being attacked as well as the public. There is even a clip on Facebook that looks like an attempted child abduction. Less well reported nationally are the criminal gangs of anti-social riders that terrorise communities, placing people at risk of serious injury as they mount pavements and practice stunt riding on the public highways on a daily basis. Our Director of Campaigns & Political Engagement, Colin Brown, said “Behind all this criminality is the epidemic of motorcycle theft that fuels and enables the behaviour. As I heard one wise police officer comment; ‘these people are not the type who go out to their local dealership to buy, register, tax and insure a motorcycle.’ We are not likely to be rubbing shoulders with them at a local charity run unless they are there to steal our bikes.
MAG has a very simple solution to all the criminality: deal with the theft of motorcycles. Moped gangs would be reduced to being just gangs if they cannot source machines; antisocial riders can only be anti-social kids on foot if they are not riding bikes. Take away the new tool of their trade and they suddenly become less capable of breaking the law and far easier to apprehend. Colin Brown went on to say: “The police are constantly asking for partnership-working due to the pressures on their resources, yet despite repeated offers they generally don’t want to work with us. We engaged with the Home Office Roundtable process but, again, despite repeated offers we were not actively engaged in any of the task and finish groups. The only people at the table with first-hand knowledge of the real face of motorcycle theft and the realities of what victims are suffering were excluded from the process. This has resulted, in our view, in a massive tickbox exercise that has not come close to tackling the problem.” We’re also asking all local authorities how many secure motorcycle parking bays they provide, what their spending has been on secure parking infrastructure and what their budget is for 2018. From this data we will identify areas where there needs to be closer scrutiny, and we will then examine the response to the issue and planned action in that location. We will demand that independent advisory groups are set up to hold the senior officers and local authorities accountable. We will make our findings public and, where necessary, lobby local PCC’s and MP’s until action is taken. At a recent show a guy came up to the MAG stand. He said “my mate keeps telling me freedom isn’t free, and I need to join MAG to support what you do“. His mate is right: freedom isn’t free and we can’t do this on fresh air alone. The Motorcycle Action Group is the country’s leading organisation when it comes to representing rider’s interests. and you can be a member for just over 50p per week. Please call 01926 844064: single membership costs £27 (family, joint, affiliated club and corporate memberships also available).
South East Biker Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk
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ORIENTEERING
TWO GO
DESPATCHING IN DORSET
We came across a fascinating new motorcycle orienteering event in the New Forest and despatched Les Smith and Helga, his trusty BMW, to find out more….
“W
e hope to bring together the motorcycling community to celebrate and honour the Despatch riders from whom motorcycle culture descended.” That mission statement just about sums up exactly what this great little event did. Motorcyclists young and old from all over the South East and further afield rendezvoused at the wonderful Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum in the New Forest to celebrate the army despatch riders of the British Army. This rally encourages riding your motorcycle in a great rural setting, tackling on the hoof map reading and navigation, clay pigeon shooting and machine control skills, all in an attempt to create a community spirit within the confines of the twowheeled world. All propelled by proper wartime spirit, grit and determination stuff. The Despatch Rally aimed to do the above, and it did just that and in fact brought together motorcycles and riders of all genres, not just
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adventure bikes, not just power-ranger sports dudes, not just classic hipster retro, not just genuine classic vintage but all bikes and all riders, from doctors to dinner ladies. You can probably tell already I had a good time and I certainly did. I had seen the advert for the rally on the web and was about to “enrol” when the editor asked me if I fancied covering the event. That was it really, I was in, as a despatch rider for South East Biker magazine. The weekend (May12/13) began with a Friday afternoon run from Kent into Sussex and then on to the New Forest. On the way over we took a short detour to Goodwood for a brew, where upon arrival we were treated to the sight of a couple of Spitfires, not just on display, but in the air with paying (lucky) passengers inboard. The sound from the engine alone is enough to get the spine-tingling.
August-September 2018 • South East Biker Magazine
ORIENTEERING
To be so close (the other side of a rope some 20 yards away) was a real thrill. Anyway, after the brew and a drool over the Spits, we legged it to the campsite in the New forest…tent-up, pub, food, beer, sleeping bag. Saturday came bright and early and a little
chilly, so we were up and away as soon as possible so we could get a bit to eat before the rally. I wanted to get there early anyway to get a feel for the event and soak up what the thing was all about. To be fair, we were probably all but first there.
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27 14/05/2018 09:26
ORIENTEERING
Even the breakfast bar was yet to open. We were that early. Better to be early than late. As the riders began to arrive, it was a real treat to see how the “demographic” panned out. Bikes and riders of all shapes, sizes, ages and genres. When speaking to the team who organise the (DR) Dispatch Rally, it was evident that the community, the motorcycle community spirit thing comes first. Their aim to put on an event for everyone has certainly worked. There are a number of national events emerging today that seem to cater to
a particular niche or stereotype; this event welcomes all, i.e. you don’t need a beard or a tweed suit! Now the Despatch Rally’s theme centres on the issue of navigating between locations and Orienteering by Motorcycle. Each rider has a ‘Rider’s Logbook’ to record their arrival at each location (telephone box) and record attendance and scores at the set piece stations; machine control, shooting and the short off-road excursion. Once there and signed in you get your log book and a map, and it’s then up to you to plan a route
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23/03/2016 10:45 August-September 2018 • South East Biker Magazine
ORIENTEERING around the locations. Very simple. Points for collecting a full log book of stamps win prizes. Points are also given for turning up on a military-themed bike and rider attire, and some were the real deal, gun boxes still in place. I’m sure I saw Steve McQueen in the crowd somewhere too, having this time jumped the Fence, well his mate Bud anyway. I know he wasn’t a Despatch rider, but on that Triumph from the Great Escape, he would not have looked out of place. Riding the lanes of the New Forest and Dorset was a treat, we rode through glorious village scenes probably mostly unchanged from the war-time days to find the Phone Boxes with the magic clue inside, actually, a colour specific “Sharpie” with which to mark the correct section in the rider log book, (other pens are available). We even crossed beautifully manicured country estates. Apologies to the wedding party, we were, at that time, lost. As the day progressed we gathered many of the clues, shot the clays, and showed off our machine control skills, but it was soon time to cut and run for HQ, as being late meant disqualification. Back safe and sound we met all the other riders as they arrived home, a good day having been had by all, loads with full log books and
smiley faces. I didn’t win (109 points) sadly as the winner of the event managed a brilliant 160 odd points, good effort. It was not about the winning, it’s a fun event, and I’m sure everyone had a great time. There was a higher score, but that poor rider was ‘late’ back and missed the 16:30 back at HQ curfew, and therefore disqualified. Harsh but fair, “Rules is Rules”. Prize giving and raffle prizes done, Sammy Miller gave a closing speech praising the rally and confirming that age is certainly no barrier to biker life. Watching Sammy wave off the riders in the morning was great, he was there too on our return to welcome everyone back. He was full of enthusiasm, encouraging the riders and wishing them a good day. I can thoroughly recommend this event; it’s a great no pressure fun, biker’s event. It can be done on any bike in any kit and pillions are encouraged. But if you have a military interest and the kit, you will gain extra bonus points and get your photo taken a lot but, as the couple on the Aprilia Shiver will confirm, you don’t need a camouflage net and combat jacket to be in it. All done till next year, looking forward to it already. “Right men, Carry On”. Keep it upright.
South East Biker Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk
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OVERLAND
THE OVERLAND EVENT If you dream of seeing the world from the seat of your bike, the Overland Event is the place to be at the end of August. Prepare to be inspired.
T
he reasons people look forward to the Overland Event are as numerous and diverse as the riders and pillions themselves. Some are drawn by the array of round-the-world motorcycles in the Bike Show, like Ted Simon’s iconic Triumph Tiger T100P. Others enjoy the chance to test ride new machines and develop their off-road abilities on the Skills Course. Experienced motorcycle travellers share their hard-earned wisdom, while aspiring adventurers soak up information, advice and endless inspiration. There’s camping, music and real ale, though it’s not a rowdy bike rally. There are manufacturers, leading clothing brands, tour companies and other exhibitors too, yet it’s far more than a trade show. By the end of the first day of last year’s Overland Event I’d already lost count of the number of times I heard people say, “It’s so chilled out,” and, “Everyone’s smiling!” But that’s the nature of the beast created by the team behind Overland Magazine. It strikes an effortless
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balance between relaxed entertainment and an unhurried schedule of presentations, workshops and riding opportunities. Immersed in what feels like an extended family of like-minded souls with a shared passion for motorcycle travel, people laugh a lot, learn a lot, reconnect with old friends and make many new ones. 2018 is the Overland Event’s fourth year and its third at the picturesque Hill End Centre just outside Oxford. The 62-acre venue is normally used as an outdoor activity and education facility for schoolchildren, and is designated as
August-September 2018 • South East Biker Magazine
OVERLAND
a Site of Special Scientific Interest. As well as the vast camping areas, forest walks, fire bowls, and plentiful, clean toilets and showers, there are dormitory rooms available (at a small extra charge) for those who don’t want to bring a tent, and there’s free tea and coffee all weekend! Brittany Ferries, Lindstrands, Moto Freight and Rev’It are sponsors of this year’s event, and it’s expected that Royal Enfield, Benelli and Sinnis will be among the manufacturers offering both on and off-road test rides. The Overland Event supports the invaluable work of the charity Motorcycle Outreach, and there’s a high-value prize draw on the Saturday evening. Ted Simon will be there once again and, among many other overlanding authors and filmmakers who’ll be presenting, he’ll be joined by Elspeth
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Beard (the first British woman to motorcycle around the world), Sam Manicom (eight years round the world), Bruce Smart (round the world on a superbike), Ed March (famous for his journeys on a Honda C90), and Jacqui Furneaux (seven years and 20 countries on a Royal Enfield Bullet). With a mix of perspective-changing story telling and practical ‘how to’ sessions, there’s something for everyone who’s ever travelled, or dreamed of travelling on a motorcycle. The Overland Event takes place near Oxford from Friday, 31st August to Sunday, 2nd September 2018. Tickets bought online in advance cost £60, or £70 on the gate. Hot showers and 3 nights’ camping are included. There are no day tickets. For more information and to book, visit overlandevent.com
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South East Biker Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk
31
EVENTS
BRIGHTON SPEED TRIALS
The VMCC Sprint Section will once again be organising the motorcycle side of things at the annual Brighton Speed Trials on Saturday 1st September by kind invitation of our friends The Brighton and Hove Motor Club
T
he Brighton Speed Trials is considered to be the longest running motor sport event in the world as it first ran way back in 1905. Jump forward 113 years and Saturday 1st September 2018 sees yet another running of this iconic event, the current format being a standing-start ¼ mile sprint along Brighton seafront’s Madeira Drive. Up to 200 cars and 75 motorcycles will take part during the day. It’s not unusual to have a mix of bikes entered from the 1920’s right up to
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current day, and when we say ‘entered’, the bikes in the paddock are the bikes that are giving the beans along the seafront! Spectator entry includes a free programme and access to the paddock area, so not only can the variety of machines be seen at close quarters, the riders/drivers/mechanics can be chatted to if you want to know some detail about the machinery. There’s a 20% reduction for Advance Tickets up to and including 24 Aug, details on the Brighton and Hove Motor Club website. Main sponsor for the 2018 event (along with many previous years) is Frosts Cars Ltd of Brighton. So, if you fancy a day at the sea-side and at the same time don’t mind seeing cars and bikes in competition (the fastest bikes can reach around 160mph), the annual Brighton Speed Trials could be worth a visit. VMCC Sprint Section: www.vmccsprint.co.uk or find: www.facebook.com/vmccsprint/ Brighton & Hove Motor Club: www.brightonandhovemotorclub.co.uk
August-September 2018 • South East Biker Magazine
BIKER LISTINGS
BIKER DIRECTORY EVENTS ELK PROMOTIONS Classic Motorcycle Events in the South East
elkpromotions.co.uk KIT AND ACCESSORIES BOLT BIKES Motorcycle Helmets, Clothing & Accessories
01424 272121 boltbikes.co.uk MOTOPORT LTD Stockists of high-quality brands – Gerbing Heated Clothing, Dane, Difi, Draggin’ jeans & Bayard helmets
01892 457373 gerbing.co.uk daneclothing.uk draggin-mc.co.uk HELMET CITY TATSFIELD Huge range of kit and accessories in store and online. Free UK shipping
01959 577 911 helmetcity.co.uk LEGAL SERVICES HUDGELL SOLICITORS Personal injury specialists
0808 301 8554 hudgellsolicitors.co.uk MOTORCYCLE HIRE WEST SUSSEX MOTORCYCLE HIRE Motorcycle Hire made easy
01243 780039 westsussexmotorcyclehire.co.uk NEW AND USED BIKES
SOUTH COAST HONDA
MOTOWARD
New and used Hondas, servicing and parts
Off road Yamaha specialists, workshop, parts, kit & accessories
01243 884144 southcoasthonda.co.uk
01403 823222 motoward.co.uk
TIPPETTS
THWAITES GARAGE
New and used Hondas, servicing and parts
Servicing and MOTs
020 8399 2417 honda-tippetts.co.uk WARR’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON New and used motorcycles, kit and accessories
0208 857 9198 warrs.com SERVICING, PARTS, MOTS
01273 430303 thwaitesgarage.co.uk WEMOTO Huge range of motorcycle parts instore in Sussex and online
01273 597072 Wemoto.com SPECIALIST SERVICES
EVEREST MOTORCYCLES
VIKING MOTORCYCLE SEATS
Servicing, Repairs, MOTs, Tyres & Track Prep
Seat upholstery specialists, repairs and upgrades
01825 766351 Everestmotorcycles.co.uk
07977 874075 Viking-motorcycle-seats.co.uk
FASTLANE MOTORCYCLES
TOURING AND HOLIDAYS
Motorcycle Sales, workshop, MOTs, tyres & kit
1066 MOTORCYCLE TOURS
01732 363630 Fastlanemoto.com
07592 193399 1066motorcycletours.co.uk
INTA MOTORCYCLE SERVICES
CATALAN ADVENTURE
Used bikes, servicing, tyres, parts & MOTs
Rural Finca base for exploring on tarmac and trails
01622 688727 intabikes.com JB MOTORCYCLES Used bikes, MOTs, Servicing
01825 766351 jb-motorcycles.co.uk
Worldwide motorcycle tours
0791 3758955 catalanadventure.co.uk KAAPSTAD MOTORCYCLE TOURS Specialists in Motorcycle Holidays and Safaris in South Africa.
FREESTYLE BIKES
JOHN HARRIS MOTORCYCLES
New and used Yamaha and Husqvarna on and off road
MOTs, Servicing, Parts, Accessories & Clothing
01892 782288/01243 859655 freestylebikes.co.uk
01892 652380 jhmc.co.uk
ORWELL MOTORCYCLES
THE MOTORCYCLE MAN
New and used bikes, servicing and parts
MOTs, Servicing & Repairs
Guidance towards taking the IAM test
01473 257401 orwell.co.uk
01424 893543 themotorcycleman.co.uk
0300 2010 520 ekam.org.uk
01525 377520 Kaapstadmat.com TRAINING EAST KENT ADVANCED MOTORCYCLISTS
IF YOU’RE INTETREST IN A LISTING HERE PLEASE EMAIL NICK@SOUTHEASTBIKER.CO.UK
South East Biker Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk
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Romney Marsh Classic Bikejumble
10am Sunday 16th Sept
Spares Auction at Noon, Entries booked in from 10am. With Ride-In Show - £25 spot cash prize. Huge Marquee – all-motorcycle autojumble – Free BikeMart
Cheap garage-clearout stalls – Team up With a Friend – Ask for details
At Hamstreet, Near Ashford Kent TN26 2JD
South of England Classic Show & BikeJumble
Sunday 28th October Guest of Honour:
Colin Seeley
© ELK Promotions 2018
Celebrating 80 Years of AJS & Matchless
At South of England Showground, Ardingly, West Sussex RH17 6TL ELK Promotions, PO Box 85, New Romney, Kent TN28 9BE
01797 344277
EVENTS
www.elk-promotions.co.uk
For a full list of What’s On visit
www.southeastbiker.co.uk/events
1st September
11-12 August
BRIGHTON SPEED TRIALS
LEGENDS OF LYDDEN
Brighton Seafront
Lydden Hill, Kent
19th August
SUNBEAM MCC SUMMER PIONEER RUN Handcross
28th August
KENT CHROME AND CRUISERS CUSTOM 34
9th September
ACE CAFÉ REUNION BRIGHTON BURN UP 16 September
ROMNEY MARSH CLASSIC BIKE JUMBLE
August-September 2018 • South East Biker Magazine
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