South East Biker, Issue 67, February-March 2020

@southeastbiker

The South East’s No.1 FREE bike magazine

ISSUE 67 • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020

ROAD TO TRACK WILD TOURING

OFF TO AFRICA

GEARING UP

INTA BIKES

BATTLE OF THE

INTERCOMS REVIEWS • FEATURES • EVENTS • SPORTS SEB: ON FULL THROTTLE SINCE 2008 southeastbiker.co.uk

What will you do on your Catalan Adventure?

For just €195pp, the price includes three nights accommodation with two days bike hire and guided trail riding*. Suitable for all levels of rider experience. Small groups with a maximum of four riders. Packages arranged to suit customer requirements.

• • •

Easy access from Barcelona, Reus and Valencia airports Open all year, single night stays welcome for touring parties Road Tours also available with motorbike hire arranged

• • •

Riders on their own bikes welcome, guiding only available Visit the Med, Civil War sites, deserted villages and stunning mountains Peaceful, rural spot, close to local town with great bars and restaurants

Contact us now for a PDF brochure

www.catalanadventure.co.uk Email: catalanadventure@gmail.com

* Example package based on three riders sharing our three-bedroom Casita. Price excludes travel to and from Catalan Adventure.

STARTING GRID

Editor scribes The beginning of a new decade is a good excuse to try and anticipate what the next ten years has in store for us all. There is not much doubt that one of the greatest challenges facing us all is addressing the environmental crisis that is looming quickly.

As I write this, fires are raging across Australia and around the planet other climate related disasters are unfolding.

What’s this got to do with motorcycles then?

Well, personal transport is one of the fundamental issues that needs to be looked at as part of the bigger picture when it comes to protecting the environment. Motorcycles and scooters certainly have a vital role in providing affordable, practical and low impact transport. Whether it’s in congested cities or rural areas with poor public transport, bikes can be part of the solution.

The bikes of the future will run on electricity and other fuels as oil-based engines are phased out. Major manufacturers will have to redesign their product lines to adapt to changing markets and environmental legislation.

Interesting and challenging times ahead, but there could be many opportunities for motorcycling to evolve and expand as the decade unfolds. Let’s hope so.

In the meantime, dust off your machines and start planning for the year ahead as we wait for the sun to appear.

4 MOTORCYCLE OUTREACH 8 Getting INTA Bikes

All the best

10 HYOSUNG GV125S

Nick

14 Safari Days and Starry Nights

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.

Contents

COVER IMAGE: Road to Track, see page 18

© 2019 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

18 Road To Track 20 Battle of the Intercoms 23 MAG News 24 Zoe Cano on the Go 25 The Japanese Speaking Curtain Maker 26 Product Reviews 3

CHANGING LIVES

MOTORCYCLE

OUTREACH How one person’s Round the World Trip changed lives

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n December 1998 a lone biker set off from Brussels on the first leg of what was planned to be a two-year Round the World ride, on a home-made motorcycle. That person was Simon Milward, then the General Secretary of the Federation of European Motorcyclists Associations (FEMA), based in Brussels and representing motorcyclists in the EU institutions. His ‘Millennium Ride’ was in support of the charities Médecins sans Frontières and Riders for Health (RfH).

During his trip, Simon witnessed at first hand the need for healthcare delivery schemes based on the RfH model of ‘zero breakdown’ for the vehicles. All the medicines, vaccinations and mosquito nets in the world are useless if they can’t reach the people for whom they are intended because they can’t be delivered down that last mile of the road or track to that remote village where they are needed. Doctors, Nurses and Midwives can’t get to those villages either.

In 2002, Simon met Indonesian aid worker, Willy Balawala, in Kupang, West Timor, and they

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discussed the health issues affecting local people.

These focussed around the lack of proper primary healthcare provision within local communities.

Preventable diseases were rife and basic mother and child health provision absent because it was extraordinarily difficult for health services to reach the more remote communities. There was a real need for adequate transport to improve the quality of healthcare for people in such areas, and both Willy and Simon saw small motorcycles as the answer.

Simon felt that, working with Willy and RfH, it would be possible to establish in Indonesia the type of successful project that RfH had set up in Africa. Simon’s objectives for his RTW journey started to change and he started fundraising for this new project idea which was launched on the remote island of Flores later in 2002, with the local name Health for All (HfA). This was funded, in part, by the Japanese motorcycle manufacturers, who responded positively to a presentation and proposal that Simon made directly to them while he travelled in Japan.

February-March 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

CHANGING LIVES

Riders for Health were also keen to help and Willy was sent to the RfH Academy in Zimbabwe to learn about the system of ‘Transport Resource Management’ — this being the principle that keeps motorcycles running for long periods in difficult environments.

As Simon continued onwards during his RTW trip, he spoke more and more often about what he was calling ‘Motorcycle Outreach’. The project on Flores had started well and Simon was already thinking about creating a new charity which would support HfA and help start similar projects in other countries.

Over the next few years, Simon extensively fundraised, particularly in the United States. But tragedy struck early in 2005. In March of that year, Simon lost his life in a road accident near Kayes in Mali, aged only 40. At the time, he had completed one complete circuit of the world and was on his way to the Riders for Health centre in The Gambia.

However, from tragedy rose new beginnings and a future for Simon’s vision. Since April 2005, Simon’s family and friends have worked to ensure that Simon’s legacy and

vision for sustainable healthcare delivery in developing countries continued and, in August 2005, Motorcycle Outreach Ltd (MoR) was incorporated as a Registered Charity in the UK. This was launched in November 2005 with events at the motorcycle show in Birmingham’s NEC. This was immediately followed by a much-publicised ride to Kayes by Craig Carey-Clinch and David French. The aim was to highlight Simon’s journey and his objectives, plus a visit to the Riders for Health centre in The Gambia. The ride was heavily sponsored by BMW and Metal Mule, the luggage manufacturers.

Since those extraordinary early days, MoR has focussed on developing the HfA project in Flores so that it could extend its services, establish professional standards, be a partner in the Indonesian healthcare system and become selfsustaining. In the process, the project has served over 55,000 people in rural communities, with healthcare access significantly improving a large number of basic healthcare indicators, particularly through vaccinations, maternal support and health education.

HfA has developed a reputation for delivering a high quality service and this in turn has attracted new supporters, with its projects funded by AUSAID and the Japanese foreign affairs ministry among others. The original fleet of 19 motorcycles has been replaced twice since 2005, most recently through support from Shell Indonesia and the UK’s Overland Magazine.

Motorcycle Outreach is a healthcare logistics charity that operates on a few basic principles. Firstly, that small motorcycles can reach places that other vehicles can’t. Secondly, that if bikes are used for such work, they need to be kept in good shape. Thirdly, that it’s local players that can get the best results, not big aid agencies flooding places with people and equipment. Finally, that there’s no point in setting something up that will fold in a year or two, letting down the people that it’s supposed to help — projects need to be sustainable.

To put this into perspective, UN funded agencies supply thousands of vehicles, plus motorcycles for aid work. But little in the way of operational logistics and

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

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CHANGING LIVES

Spencer James Conway and Cathy Nell, MoR ambassadors

structured servicing. The smallest issue can cause these vehicles to become inoperable at which point they are dumped and yet more vehicles provided. This is just one example of the extraordinary waste that can occur in the world of ‘big aid’. But in contrast, some of the original MoR bikes lasted nearly ten years, illustrating what can be achieved if projects are set up with sustainability in mind.

As HfA is now becoming well established, with a solid business plan going forward, MoR has focussed more recent support on infrastructure, the workshop and rider training and safety.

This means that the healthcare workers using the bikes are well equipped to do the job they were primarily trained to do.

Motorcycle Outreach is now starting to look ahead. Although HfA will likely always need some level of support from them, it has reached a stage of sustainability where they can look again at Simon’s longer-term plans. They are already considering other countries where the MoR system can be put in place and the local partners which will be needed, plus how MoR itself needs to evolve to meet the challenges of new projects. This will be the focus of

fundraising as they moved forward. Their ambition is to develop new projects on the ground in those countries where they are needed.

MoR is supported by a dedicated group of trustees and its patron Ted Simon, who needs no introduction. During 2019, world travellers Spencer James Conway and Cathy Nell agreed to become MoR ambassadors and they are keen to support the charity as it seeks to expand its operations.

Among the main achievements of Motorcycle Outreach are: • During successful national immunisation campaigns the utilisation of motorcycles was managed by the MoR project HfA. • The decline of malnutrition cases in children under five years old.

• An increase in the number of healthcare worker visits to rural areas to deliver health services such as vaccinations for children and education in good nutrition, health and hygiene for mothers and children.

• An increase in the monitoring and improvement of sanitation facilities • The ability to respond quickly and more easily to emergency cases.

• Training given to dozens of healthcare workers in healthcare services.

• Dissemination of health information material on subjects such as Nutrition, Maternal and Child Health, STDs and HIV/AIDS. For more information about Motorcycle Outreach, visit: www.motorcycleoutreach.org.

Fundraise for Motorcycle Outreach every time you shop through www.smile. amazon.co.uk — it’s easy!

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February-March 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

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

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STARTING ON TWO WHEELS

HOW TO GET INTA MOTORCYCLING…

T

John Allsopp takes a trip to Maidstone.

he process of getting on the road on a scooter or motorcycle has become a lot more involved and expensive over the last couple of decades. Unfortunately, this has been a barrier for some of those wishing to take advantage of one of the most practical, and certainly the most enjoyable, forms of transport. Luckily, Maidstone based Inta Motorcycle Services has introduced a scheme to help get more people mobile…

Inta Motorcycle Services have been helping people get into biking for 25 years and, in that time, they have seen many changes in the way people view biking and the difficulty people now have getting on two wheels, be that financial or just being unsure how the whole process works. So they have decided to put together some package deals to make the process as simple and as cost effective as possible. Inta have teamed up with Mantis Motorcycle Training to offer a scheme which they are calling “On the road with Inta”.

They believe that this scheme is a great and simple way to get not just new riders on two wheels, but also gives some of the new generation of riders the ability to move onto the next step of their riding careers. The scheme offers a wide range of bikes to fit all ages, abilities and even personal style. For those that have no experience whatsoever, Inta offers the basic On the Road scheme, which includes the necessary CBT course, the choice of a 50cc scooter, a 125cc scooter, a 50cc geared bike or 125cc geared bike and a set of protective clothing as well. These schemes start

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from as little as £79 pcm* and the best part about it all is that there is no need for any payment up front! Bikes included in this scheme are the Rieju MRT line both in 50cc and 125cc, the Kymco scooters Agility 50 and 125, with more bikes being added regularly.

For people that already have a CBT, and have been riding for a while, they offer a full licence scheme too. This scheme includes a motorcycle from the MASH Five Hundred 400cc line, a 3-, 4- or 5-day training course with Mantis Motorcycle Training and a £500 in store clothing voucher, so you can pick your own gear too. This scheme comes in at £140 pcm* dependent on which course you require and which bike you choose. This scheme is also offered with a zero-deposit option, so you can go from nothing to on the road with no upfront cost to you.

If you, or someone you know, are looking at getting on two wheels this year then get in touch with the team at Inta to discuss your options. They look forward to helping you get on the road this coming summer!

Inta Motorcycles 01622 688727 www.intabikes.co.uk *Example costs. Terms apply and are subject to status checks.

February-March 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

GET ON THE ROAD WITH INTA! ZERO DEPOSIT …AND WITH

FROM BEGINNER TO CBT: AGILITY 50 PACK Includes a brand new Kymco Agility 50cc scooter, SPADA clothing pack and CBT

Our Agility 50 pack is ideal for those just turning 16 and need some great reliable transport. It includes a brand new Kymco Agility 50 scooter, SPADA clothing pack and CBT.

Just £0 deposit and £79pcm for 32 months.

FROM BEGINNER TO CBT: CB125 PACK

Includes pre-registered Honda CB125 motorcycle, SPADA clothing pack and CBT Our CB125 pack is great for those looking for a small and reliable bike to get on the road. It includes the Honda CB125 bike, SPADA clothing pack and CBT.

Just £0 deposit and £99pcm for 38 months.

FROM CBT TO FULL LICENCE: MASH PACK

Includes a Mash Five Hundred 400cc motorcycle, £500 in-store clothing voucher and four-day training course

For those who already have a CBT and want to move onto a bigger bike, we are offering a full licence pack which includes a MASH Five Hundred 400cc motorcycle, £500 voucher to spend in-store to get some clothing of your choice and a four-day training course. This pack is ideal for those who want to get on a bike but without having to organise it yourself – we do all the leg work.

Just £0 deposit and £140pcm for 48 months.

Terms apply. Finance is a representative example and subject to status and a credit check.

CBTs, training courses and clothing packs are subject to availability. Price excludes insurance and servicing.

www.intabikes.co.uk

Call: 01622 688727 • Email: sales@Intabikes.co.uk 99-107 Upper Stone St, Maidstone, Kent. ME15 6HE N E W & U S E D M OTO R C YC L E S • PA RT S • ACC E S S O R I E S • C LOT H I N G • S E RV I C E

BIKE REVIEW

H YO S U N G

GV125S AQUILA

I

Dom Humby relives his youth and checks out a small capacity machine…

t has been some time since I’ve ridden a small capacity motorcycle. So much so that I had forgotten how much fun they can be — no matter the weather. Enter the Hyosung GV125s Aquila, a small but fun 125cc motorcycle with a unique 60 degree V-twin, liquid-cooled engine with three valves per cylinder that generates a modest 14bhp and 10,000rpm.

With a long stroke, a high torque and a configuration aimed at the lower rpm, the power tends to be at its best near the 6500rpm mark. I know that doesn’t seem like a lot, and realistically it isn’t, however, this doesn’t take away from the amount of fun and enjoyment you can get from this well-balanced machine. Naturally, you won’t

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break any land speed records on it but, if you do pick up some momentum, the combined braking system packs a serious punch in slowing you down. I found myself grinning from ear to ear as I cruised at 50mph in the relentless downpour that never seemed to repent. Why was I grinning?

Because it took me back to when I first did a CBT and showed me why I fell in love with motorcycling; not because I can get somewhere quickly, but the experience I can have doing so.

Being a V-twin, it is slightly heavier than your usual 125cc motorcycle, however this makes virtually no difference in manoeuvrability when in tight traffic situations, filtering or enjoying the back roads flicking between corners. This makes

February-March 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

FASTLANE MOTORCYCLES THE HOME OF PHASED OUT RACING

NEW AND USED MOTORCYCLE SALES FULL WORK SHOP FACILITIES MOT TESTING & TYRE BAY ACCESSORIES AND KIT

www.fastlanemoto.com Tel: 01732 36 36 30 88 Priory Street, Tonbridge, Kent. TN9 2AH Fastlane Motorcycles 0416.indd 1

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

23/03/2016 10:45

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BIKE REVIEW

it perfect for inner-city riding or rural jaunts to your favourite biker meet.

Style wise, the GV125s has the cruiser look that has returned to popularity in recent years. With a twin seat and comfortable low riding position of 710mm, I found it difficult not to just slump myself on it and enjoy it, letting the little V-twin thump away and eat up the miles.

Fuel injection means great economy for the mid-sized fuel tank that holds 12 litres. No massively expensive fill ups and not too many fuel stops either. Be it your first motorbike or a machine that tempts you back to biking, it will satisfy your need for that freedom motorcycling gives us. You may even find yourself reminiscing about your first time on a bike.

The kind of motorcycles you enjoy will dictate whether you’ll like how this bike is styled. It is certainly a cruising machine and has the image to match. The Aquila has a very comfortable low seat, with a tail that hugs the rear wheel.

Combined with high rise handlebars, this gives a sleek, laid back look and riding style. Both the rear brake and gear shift pedals are located further forward contributing to a relaxed seating position.

You could sit on this and ride for days without a care in the world — other than refilling the tank of course. The dash is rather small, but still gives you all the information you need, including fuel and temperature gauges.

The Hyosung steps away from today’s age of

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over-engineering and takes a simple, but very much enjoyable, approach to motorbike riding.

Was there anything I didn’t like? Well, yes and no. It had to reach 6500rpm to really feel the bike pull. With a V-twin I would expect the punch from the engine to be lower down, but then realised it is only a 125cc so maybe expecting a bit too much; I have been riding larger bikes for some years now. For that reason, I’d give this a strong 4 out of 5.

I would certainly recommend taking a look at the Hyosung GV125s if you’re looking at a bike after taking your CBT, coming back to biking or, for something small and nimble, easily capable of manoeuvring through traffic. It also can be taxed for just £20 a year and falls within a low insurance group of between three and six.

As for the price, well, it’s a very reasonablypriced £3764 OTR available from On The Wheel Motorcycles. www.onthewheel.co.uk

USEFUL INFO

Hyosung GV125s Aquila Engine 124.7cc, liquid cooled, V-twin DOHC Power 14bhp @10,000rpm Braking Combined Braking System Seat height 710mm Tank capacity 12l fuel tank Dry weight 163kg

February-March 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

LEGAL SUPPORT

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.

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.

VIKING

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

MOTORCYCLE SEATS

30 years experience • Quality craftmanship • All work guaranteed

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12/05/2015 18:00

USED MOTORCYCLES WANTED

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www.jb-motorcycles.co.uk 01732 867971 / 07717 013566

Unit 11R, Skitts Manor Farm, Moor Lane, Edenbridge TN8 5RA. South East Biker Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk JB Motorcycles HP 0518.indd 1

13 14/05/2018 09:26

WILD TOURS

KAAPSTAD MOTORCYCLE TOURS

SAFARI DAYS AND STARRY NIGHTS Carolyn Lamb has an African Adventure with Kaapstad – part one

“Shhhh!” I whispered to Jane, “I think there is a baboon on the roof”.

“Oh no! What if it’s at the bikes?” she replied quietly as my insurance excess flashed before my eyes. The thought of a baboon sitting on a BMW GS and going “vroom vroom” set us off giggling… ”shhhh! It will hear us!”

The sun was coming up over a chalet hut in Golden Gate safari park high up in the mountains on the Lesotho border with South Africa. Our party had spent the previous day riding out from Johannesburg on rented GS 750 motorbikes with our guide, Alex Jackson of Kaapstad Motorcycle Adventure Tours.

On the first day of our tour, we had already seen zebras, and many impala and several ostriches, but rather excitingly, we also saw a cobra! While riding along a dual-carriageway there were often people walking along the verges, going about their business. All of a sudden, a lad leapt six feet in the air and dashed out in front of Alex. He executed a perfect swerve avoidance and missed the lad by inches but as we rode past, we all got

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a wonderful view of a bluey-green cobra rearing up out of the grass. The lad obviously fancied his chances on a 120kph dual-carriageway rather than with the cobra. Thus was our introduction to riding in South Africa.

There were three of us on the trip. My friend Jane, another lady called Liz, and myself. We are all members of the Curvy Riders and Liz and I have both passed the IAM Advanced test. Alex was our guide for the duration of the tour. He was blissfully unaware of what the next ten days would hold for him accompanying three lady riders.

Golden Gate was well named, set amongst golden rocks and mountains and numerous little golden birds had amused us in the evening as night fell and the stars came out. The African night was very noisy with frogs and baboons but the night sky was glorious with a rising moon and millions of stars. The Milky Way streaked across the sky and we were awestruck by the beauty revealed by the lack of light pollution which sadly exists in the UK.

February-March 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

WILD TOURS

The camp had several warnings about the dangers of the baboons, so we secured the chalet for the night and fell asleep to the cacophony of night sounds.

After our rude awakening by the baboon, who thankfully had not been impressed by our motorbikes, we set off for our day’s ride. The route today would take us to Rourke’s Drift, the

site of the 1879 Zulu battle.

We were riding BMW GS 750 motorbikes. They were fairly basic rented bikes but they were more than adequate for the purpose and were very nippy when needed. Although not fast performance bikes they were perfectly suited for us to maintain a steady pace to take in the scenery and they were very comfortable to ride

Kaapstad Motorcycle Tours SPECIALIST IN SOUTH AFRICA

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Call now: 01525 377520

www.kaapstadmat.com South East Biker Adventures Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk Kaapstad Motorcycle HP 0220.indd 1

15 15/01/2020 12:56

WILD TOURS

for long periods. I was surprised by the number of speed cameras and traffic cops patrolling the roads and we strictly adhered to the speed limits.

The roads were generally in good condition, certainly better than in Edinburgh! Later in the week, we encountered some poorly maintained roads but this morning’s roads were well maintained and engineered. Alex was riding an impressive KTM 1250 Adventure which was ideal for his mileage and style of riding.

Our route took us down through the mountains of Golden Gate. Drifting smoke from bush fires hung in the air and sometimes obscured our vision but we enjoyed the sweeping bends whilst keeping a watch out for wildlife at the roadside.

The temperature rose throughout the day reaching 39 degrees and we had a welcome stop in Ladysmith for iced drinks after passing through the towns of Dundee and Glencoe. We saw signs for Newcastle and almost felt at home ...39 degrees in the UK! Wow! At lunch, Alex briefed us about the afternoon ride to Rourke’s Drift. We would have our first ride on dirt roads and he advised us to stop and change the bikes into ‘enduro’ mode. The road was a typical rutted, stony, hard-baked gravel road but the bikes coped well. Liz hit a patch of sand and had a buttock clenching wobble but recovered well and stayed upright.

Now, they say that you learn something every day. On this day I learned that if you are riding on dusty African dirt roads that you must keep your visor firmly shut. If you don’t, your companions will laugh, point and take photos BEFORE they offer you a wet wipe to clean your dirty, dusty face.

Rourke’s Drift was eerie and ghostly and whilst walking around the small museum I reflected on the futility of war and man’s inhumanity to man.

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We were walking on the deathbeds of hundreds of Zulu warriors and tens of British red coats. We paused at the beautiful monument to the Zulus which was a statue of a majestic leopard guarding their souls. The battlefield visit left us in rather a sombre mood as we left and continued on the dirt road to our hotel on the banks of the Buffalo River where the massacre started.

After dinner, Alex led us onto the hotel balcony to look at the stars again. He pointed out some constellations and showed us how to identify the Southern star. The darkness of the night highlighted the stars and again we gazed at the millions of stars not normally visible and the soft cloud of the Milky Way. Soon, the temperature plunged and shivering, we had to make our way indoors.

The frogs had begun making their nightly racket so Jane and I retired to bed but were promptly wakened again by Liz, who had managed to lock herself out on her balcony. She bravely climbed over the balcony onto some snake and lizard infested rocks, then had to climb back onto the balcony with the hotel owner like some modern day Romeo and Juliet with a screwdriver to release the door.

The next morning, Alex just shook his head in despair when we told him about Liz’s mishap. He was beginning to understand that looking after three Curvy Riders was going to be more fun than he imagined.

Alex sprayed the bike chains in an effort to clean some of the dust but he was losing the battle. The bikes and ourselves were gradually turning into a dull beige dust colour and my lovely pale grey Rev’it jacket turned muddy brown. Not to worry, it was all part of the adventure.

We carried on along more dirt roads, sometimes with very poor visibility. The local trucks sped

February-March 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

WILD TOURS

along, stirring up clouds of swirling dust which blanked my vision. I rode blindly through, trusting to the god of motorcycling that I would come safely out the other side. Emerging onto a tarmac road, we stopped for a minute to clean visors, to drink away the dust and to change the bikes back to ‘road’ mode.

Alex informed us of the day’s ride. The ride would take us into Swaziland along a disputed road. He explained that the locals wanted a new road so in order to protest about the existing carriageway, they would block the way with trees and dig it up into pot-holes. To affect repairs, the pot holes were uselessly filled with sand which then blew and spread across the road. We spent an enjoyable (not) hour playing ‘dodge the pothole’.

The Swaziland border was a short checkpoint where we had to present our passports and pay a small ‘road tax’ fee in order to ride our bikes in Swaziland. Crossing the border took us into some beautiful green mountain scenery and the difference was immediately noticeable between the two countries. Swaziland seemed better cared for and more prosperous but shortly afterwards we were stopped by the police for a roadside check. They simply looked over our documents and we were soon on our way again.

That evening, we rode into Miliwane, the first of the big safari parks on our itinerary. This was so exciting! Maybe we would see the big 5! Dating to the time of the big game hunters, ‘the big 5’ nowadays refers to the sighting (not shooting thankfully) of lions, buffalo, elephants, rhinoceros and leopards.

The accommodation at Miliwane consisted of little compounds of thatched grass huts.

They were fascinating in their construction and astonishingly cool inside after the heat of the day.

Warthogs grunted and roamed around and some of the animals wandered into the compounds, unafraid of the humans. Warning notices implored us to ‘Beware of hippos, stay on lit paths’.

Next day was a day off the bikes and we had the option to go for a horse ride instead. The other two ladies were both accomplished riders but me? Give me a motorbike going at 70mph any day! Horses have teeth and a mind of their own, and no brakes or gears. How do you control it?! Against my better judgement I was persuaded to give it a go, and just like my first day doing a CBT, I relaxed and began to enjoy it.

My gentle horse was called Vicky and because the wild animals were not scared of the horses we could ride very close to the wildlife. Vicky and I were so close to the zebra I could have stroked them. We were soon notching up the sightings of the animals. We saw impala and kudu, wildebeest and monkeys, little guinea fowl skittered away from the hooves. We saw a huge crocodile basking on the banks of the lake but we didn’t see any of the big 5.

In the afternoon we visited a local traditional village where we were entertained by traditional singing and dancing. We three women were simultaneously amused and horrified by the defence strategy employed by the villagers.

The first hut inside the stockade which invading enemies would encounter, would be the hut where the young girls of age 6-16 would live. Their job was to delay the invaders until the village defences could be activated by the big burly adult men. Umm...I don’t know what to say really!

Interesting cultural differences.

That evening, we sat out watching the stars which was becoming our nightly ritual but finally the mosquitoes and din of the frogs drove us inside. To be continued…

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

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MEETING

M OTO R C YC L E S F R O M

ROAD TO TRACK We meet Alex Sabga, the man behind the business

I

’ve had a varied career.

After leaving art college, I trained as a motorcycle mechanic, played drums in various bands, worked in a coffee shop and started acting on the side, after answering a few casting adverts. Then I got a part in Steven Spielberg’s and Tom Hanks’s WW2 Drama, Band of Brothers, as Cpl Frank Mellet.

Acting was good fun, but tough to get money in, so I kept it on the back burner as I went back to work as a Graphic Designer. But the main constant has always been motorcycles.

I’ve loved motorcycles for as long as I can remember. We have always had racers in the family, including uncles and cousins, and my dad was always positive about

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me riding. But also I’ve always loved building bikes. Café racers, brats, Lambrettas, anything really, and after a short spell racing (ran out of talent and money) I focused in on track and race bikes, as I knew I could put together bikes better than I could race them!

Through European track days, I became friends with a good group of guys, including ex-World Supersport Champ and MotoGP rider Andrew Pitt, who is a massive Band of Brothers fan.

Andrew now manages the World Superbike Yamaha Team.

I started working on and building up track and race bikes for my friends, including working on Andrew Pitt’s private bikes. He was one of the guys who kept telling me to start up my own company, as I seemed to have a talent and good knowledge of how to put together a decent bike.

A lot of people I knew, including myself, didn’t want their pride and joy road bike getting damaged on track, or scuffed and marked in transit. I always had a dedicated track bike, but many of my friends wanted the option to be able to put their bikes back on the road if they wanted

February-March 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

MEETING

to sell them later down the line. Therefore the bikes I build are never butchered, and are easy to return to a road going state.

ROAD TO TRACK WAS BORN At Road to Track, we offer a dedicated track bike building service. We can turn your road bike into a fully-fledged track machine and everything in between. Services include; full track bike build, suspension set up and installation, race parts sourcing, including a second hand eBay search if needed. We also offer a parts fitting service, for example, you buy a quickshifter, powercommander and slipper clutch — we will fit it. Discounts are available with some race parts suppliers and tyre firms. Fairing installation, lockwiring, servicing, brake rebuilds and

servicing are available as well.

We offer a one to one service on your bike and can even collect within 25 miles of Epsom in Surrey. We only work on sports bikes, so you won’t be competing for bench space with a Piaggio delivery scooter.

Check out our website on www.roadtotrack.com and email us on contact@roadtotrack.com

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

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INTERCOMS

BATTLE OF THE

INTERCOMS

Analogue Man, John Alsopp, tunes into Cardo’s Packtalk Bold Dom Humby connects with Interphone’s Avant

CARDO PACKTALK

I have been described as Analogue Man and the only major issue I had with the older unit from Cardo was that it certainly wasn’t intuitive and I often found it frustrating to operate as a result.

Dynamic Mesh Communications (DMC): The application of this is that when riders coming into range with other members of their group they automatically join the group. And when riders leave the range of other members they automatically leave the group.

You also have the ability to create multiple small subgroups to communicate independently.

Up to 15 riders can connect in the same group. Packtalk also offers Bluetooth so you can connect to any headset from any manufacturer.

Voice Activation: This is the hands-free operation function.

Working in a similar fashion to Siri and Alexa. A simple “Hey Cardo” can control the features of Packtalk without moving a hand from the bars. This not only offers additional safety but it did eliminate a lot of frustration.

Range: On test the range of the Packtalk was about one mile under perfect conditions but, in

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average conditions, the range is still close to twothirds of a mile which is very impressive when compared to most systems on the market.

Packtalk also offer the ability to access FM radio, listen to music from a smartphone, share the audio you are listening to with the group, make phone calls, merge a call to the intercom and create a private chat.

The unit has up to 13 hours of talk time and can be charged while in use. Cardo units are waterproof and offer a two-year warranty.

The speakers are 40mm units from JBL. The sound quality is excellent with very little distortion even at “Autobahn’ speeds. I had a few comfort issue so I replaced them with ear buds very easily as the connector is a standard jack plug. (To note, this issue may be isolated to the helmet used in test but the speakers themselves are quite thick).

Pairing and functions: The Cardo mobile app is offered on the Apple App Store and on Google Play.

The Packtalk Bold operates on a three-button system and also a control wheel towards the back of the unit. I tried out the unit with different gloves.

With Held Air n Dry gauntlet gloves, I was able to feel the buttons very easily and had no issues with function. Thicker Gerbring heated gloves worked equally as well.

Button function became less of an issue as I grew more familiar with the voice command function.

You can use the voice commands to access the radio, music, adjust the volume, speed dial, redial, answer or ignore phone calls and check battery status.

The only issue that I have come across has been related to the location of my phone. As this relies on bluetooth, the phone ideally needs to be placed in a breast pocket. www.cardosystems.com

February-March 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

INTERCOMS

INTERPHONE AVANT

For most of the summer and over the winter I’ve been testing the new Interphone Avant intercom; the newly released system boasts all their top tech and this means you get a very impressive spec with a great range, connectivity with up to 8 riders and 20 hours’ battery life.

For fitting, you get a sticky mount and a clamp mount that fits between the helmet’s outer shell and lining. You get a set of 40mm flat headphones, velcro sticky mounts with spares in case you change helmets, plus velcro pads and two microphone options, one being corded for open face or flip front helmets. You also get a sticky mount mic for full face with spare foam covers and a USB cable for charging and firmware updates.

There is an app available to be used with all the current Interphone systems including the Avant.

This unit has a 1.7km range, and I can honestly say it absolutely does cover that and, in perfect conditions, it slightly exceeded that distance as well.

Using the buttons on the Avant can take some getting used to, particularly with winter gloves on, but for me this is the same with any new intercom unit of any brand.

The voice commands work reasonably well, making sure you annunciate correctly will ensure the voice recognition, although sometimes this can take a couple of goes to get it to work. The Avant does come with a quick-start guide that will enable you to get set-up and connected and is well worth familiarising yourself with.

Connecting to the other units wasn’t a difficult task, although I will say that whilst trying to connect to the new Cardo PackTalk Bold it took some time to realise we needed to change the settings to Bluetooth mode from Cardo’s unique Dynamic Mesh Connection.

If you use custom moulded ear plugs with 3.5mm jack, you will have to buy a separate adapter and mic as they have not yet got an adapter to fit the standard mic that comes with the kit.

All in all, I’m very impressed with the Intercom

Avant’s range and capability. It does everything you expected, with great battery life and range, group connections capable of up to eight riders, built-in FM radio with presets, music and sat-nav can be streamed simultaneously and shared with other riders with great sound quality and no compromise on comfort. I would give the Interphone Avant a good four out of five.

At £251.55 from www.interphone.com it’s priced in line with other products of the same or a similar specification.

Massive thanks to Dan at Bolt Bikes in Bexhill On Sea for supplying the Interphone Avant and his invaluable help and support. www.boltbikes.co.uk www.facebook.com/boltbikes.co.uk

ROUND UP

PACKTALK AVANT

Battery: talk time 13 hrs Battery: stand-by 168 hrs Max. connections 15 riders Bike-to-Bike (Bluetooth) 1 mile Bike-to-Bike (DMC) 5 miles* Bluetooth to devices Yes Music sharing Yes Voice/Music mix Yes Voice commands/assist Yes Price (expect to pay) £255

15+hrs 1000 hrs 8 riders 1 mile n/a Yes Yes Yes Yes £251.55

* manufacturer claim

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

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Are ongoing symptoms affecting your work?

If you have suffered injury following an accident, you may have ongoing symptoms which, whilst not preventing you from returning to work, do impact on your ability to work 100%. Ongoing symptoms can manifest in the workplace in a variety of ways. You may be limited in the tasks that you can do, or limited in the amount of time that you can work for. You may be unable to advance your career. Or you may have to work at a lower level.

If liability can be established, a variety of claims can be considered if you have ongoing symptoms which affect your work and career. These could include loss of basic pay, overtime, bonuses, pension and benefits.

I am a personal injury solicitor with over 30 years’ experience and have assisted many motorcyclists where their injuries have affected their ability to work.

For a free, no obligation discussion on how I could help you, contact me, Philip Scarles: Philip.Scarles@mwsolicitors.co.uk or call 01732 758 544.

www.mwsolicitors.co.uk MW Solicitors HP 0220.indd 1

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February-March 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

WHAT HAVE YOU GOT PLANNED FOR 2020?

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Andy Carrott, MAG National Vice Chairman, updates us

s I write this the rain is hitting the windows, my head is full of cold, my limbs ache and the thought of riding is not very high on my agenda. Yet, in a few days I hope to be with the faithful, shuffling around the halls at a large show, admiring stunning classic bikes, no doubt clutching a bag containing a “bargain” I hadn’t expected to buy, and listening to the sounds of yesteryear as mechanical icons from racing’s heritage are started up in one of the halls. A week after that and I will be the other side of the fence running a stall promoting the Motorcycle Action Group at another local bike show.

I like our local winter bike shows. It’s a chance to meet with riding friends I have not seen since last year. Autumn, Christmas and much of winter are behind us and people are planning for the year ahead. Some of that planning includes looking at the calendar and deciding which events to attend. Rallies may not be your thing, but MAG has some great weekend events ranging from small laidback affairs of a couple of hundred people to festivals with multiple stages and bars, bikes shows and trade stands and over 6000 attendees. There will be one-day shows and bike nights too. Some will be on your doorstep; others will be hundreds of miles and a mini motorcycling adventure away.

These events are an important source of funding for MAG. Lobbying and campaigning requires having employees who can go to meetings anywhere in the country and spend many hours on research, digging into consultation documents and data, and that costs money. MAG employs former MP Lembit Öpik who is based in London and Colin Brown, a former volunteer MAG regional representative and now a key researcher and campaigner who really doesn’t like to take no for an answer. These guys also support our network of regional and local volunteers who do sterling work with their local politicians and authorities.

Many local and national clubs affiliate to MAG and with a large national club considering joining, we asked Lembit and Colin for a summary of what MAG has been working on: Input to consultations on Clean Air Zones partnering with the British Parking Association

on a motorcycle-specific element to the Park Mark Scheme; engagement with multiple Police Forces regarding bike theft; being part of the Motorcycle Crime Reduction Group and Home Office Round Table for Moped Enabled Crime; achieved London Ultra Low Emission Zone exemptions for pre-Euro 3 bikes via Certificates of Conformity or individual testing; sitting on Highways England Motorcycle Working Group (a group very willing to work with MAG as they see fewer cars and more two wheelers as a benefit!); involvement with National Young Riders Forum; official UK promoters of International Ride To Work Day; lobbying for secure parking; continued work on Bus Lane Access in 75 local authorities and growing; working relationship with All Party Parliamentary Group for Motorcycling; securing mechanism for motorcycles to be scoped out of Low Emission Zone restrictions in Scotland; contacting all new and returning MPs and building a relationship with the Secretary of State for Transport, including working with MPs to get a Parliamentary debate in support for ‘modal shift’ from cars to motorcycles; part of the Federation of European Motorcycle Associations.

Motorcycling needs a voice in meeting rooms and offices, responding to consultations, to be heard in lecture halls and conferences. Most of us just want to be out on our bikes either for fun, or as practical transport (or both), but the only way to ensure that we can continue to do so without unnecessary or unreasonable restriction is if riders support us in our work. So, if you see a MAG event in your area why not pop along or even consider a bigger adventure to a rally or event hundreds of miles from home. Look for posters in your local bike shop or join the local and national MAG Facebook groups. There’s an events list on our national website that’s regularly updated too. If you see a MAG stand at a local event, don’t be stranger: say hello (and say what fantastic articles Andy Carrott writes in the superb South East Biker magazine!!) and perhaps even consider joining.

You can join MAG online at www.mag-uk.org or by calling 01926 844064. Membership costs just £27 for a year. Family, corporate and club affiliations also available. We appreciate your support.

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

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MEET

GETTING TO KNOW

ZOË CANO An adventurous explorer, writer and photographer.

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orn in Hereford, England, Zoë immediately moved after leaving school to live and work in Paris for ten years, working in the film and events industry. From there, she went to New York and Boston, with extended periods in Brazil and Asia.

Among her numerous unique adventures, Zoë has undertaken the challenge to row the entire length of the Thames from its source in the centre of England to Greenwich, travelled through the Amazon, walked distances along the Great Wall of China and also crossed the Peruvian Andes on horseback.

With her love of motorcycles, in 2012 she succeeded in crossing the American Continent solo, without assistance, on a classic Triumph Bonneville T100. She’d just passed her test!

This expedition clocked up almost 9,000 miles with no sat-nav used — just old National Geographic maps. That summer of 2012 across America would go down in the record books as being the hottest on record. The fact that she hadn’t done much more than 100 miles on a motorbike before the trip confirms her courage as well as producing incredible adventures.

She is the author of a number of highly successsful travel books published in America

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by Road Dog Publications.

Bonneville Go or Bust: On the Roads Less Travelled narrates this first unique solo adventure and has received rave reviews and 5-star ratings on both sides of the Atlantic.

Just two years later in 2014, Zoe returned to the USA and undertook another challenging 2,000 miles on another classic motorbike, this time through the southern states of Georgia, Alabama and the Gulf Peninsula of Florida, recounted in her second book Southern Escapades.

Her third book in the adventure travel series Chilli, Skulls & Tequila is a 3,000 mile solo escapade she took in 2016 through the iconic Baja California, Mexico and this time in an old truck. In 2017, a year later, she jumped on an old scooter and rode from London and around the Welsh coastline.

In 2018, she completed a three month 4,000 mile adventure through New Zealand, again on a motorcycle. Her new book Hellbent for Paradise covering stories of this unique adventure and is now available through her website and bookstores. www.ZoeCano.com Twitter and Instagram: @bijoulatina

February-March 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

BOOK REVIEW

R E C H A R G E

W I T H

THE JAPANESE-SPEAKING CURTAIN MAKER

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R E A D

at times of great personal challenge, belies a character that overall seems to run to the tune of Iggy Pop’s ‘Lust for Life’.

Spencer does indeed have some challenging times, including being shot at by Shifta bandits in Kenya and contracting malaria as well as encountering some food that sounds like it should have come with a bio-hazard warning. But much of the tale does centre around the positive human interactions he has, including a boatman from Aswan and an unpredictable Canadian traveller called Carl.At times Spencer indulges in very long riding days and is sucked into ‘white line fever’ and some countries seem to disappear in a blink in his rear view mirrors. But these periods are juxtaposed by the many occasions where the author slows his rate of travel and relates his experiences with Nigerian millionaires, a forest clearing full of stolen beer and forgotten border crossings.

I found it almost impossible to put this book down and fully expect you will all have a similar experience. My rating is a five out of five for high octane thrills. Available at Waterstones and other outlets for £9.99.

By Spencer James Conway Review by John Allsopp Not exactly the title that might instantly conjure images of overland adventure you might think. However, its relevance seems rather indicative, not only of the nature of the trip Spencer took, but of the man himself.

How so? As the story of this adventure unfolds it becomes clearer that the experience is multifaceted, unconventional and full of subtleties.

It is also at times witty, as well as insightful and reflective. At other times, shocking and harrowing.

Spencer James Conway was the first person to circumnavigate Africa by motorcycle, raising over £30,000 for Save the Children in the process. However, the mental image of a rugged explorer is quickly challenged as the author recounts his fears and trepidations as he sets off from the bucolic Biddenden, in Kent, into a rain lashed splash towards his first sea crossing. His overthinking at the outset of the journey, and

The adventure starts in store

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MOTOWARD.CO.UK

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M OTO - X

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

TO P N A M E S I N C LOT H I N G A N D PA RT S • W O R L D W I D E D E L I V E RY South East Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk Motoward HPBiker 0117.indd 1

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PRODUCT REVIEW

L A T E S T

G E A R

DANE SKELUND GLOVES They boast breathable mesh zones and the outer material, membrane and lining are partial glued for better grip and less friction. There are touch sensitive panels on the thumb and index finger which enable you to use your smartphone or GPS without removing them. The Skelund gloves have a flexible hardshell protection on the knuckles, coupled with TPR protection and foam shock absorber on the fingers and sides.

PROS: instantly comfortable and with no need for ‘breaking in’ CONS: marketed as a summer glove but more suitable for spring/autumn RATE: JJJJJ PRICE: £79.99 VISIT: www.daneclothing.uk

HJC I90 TOURING HELMET

Y O U

KEIS G502 HEATED SPORTS GLOVE KIT This particular kit consists of the gloves, two batteries, a mains charger and a power cable to connect to your bikes battery. The gloves can also be run from batteries.

Features a visor wipe, three stage heat settings and decent short term waterproofing and wind resistance.

PROS: supply decent warmth and still have plenty of feel CONS: batteries are bulky PRICE: £295 RATING: JJJJJ VISIT: www.motohaus.com

VEMAR GHIBLI HELMET

The HJC i90 is a modular touring helmet with a polycarbonate shell, air-flow ventilation system and an internal sun visor. Its SuperCool moisture wicking liner system helps keep you comfortable on long rides. A special groove along the temples accommodates glasses so you can see clearly if you don’t have 20/20 vision.

PROS: for under £200, it’s a great purchase for a modular helmet.

CONS: can suffer a bit with noise isolation and ventilation.

PRICE: £199.99 RATING: JJJJJ VISIT: www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk

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F O R

The Vemar Ghibli is a comfortable and affordable ‘entry level’ helmet. At 1435g the Ghibli is a relatively light helmet by budget standards, and weighs less than some costing much more. The lining is plush to a degree that belies the price. Four position ratchet for visor and adjustable air vents.

Scratch-resistant visor, removable and washable interior liner. It’s also intercomand Pinlock-ready.

PROS: comfortable and light CONS: needs the Pinlock as steams up easily PRICE: from £99.99 RATING: JJJJJ VISIT: Geared Up Motorcycle Apparel, Robertsbridge

February-March 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

PRODUCT REVIEW

L A T E S T

G E A R

KRIEGA US DRYPACK The US-Drypack system has had a refresh. The classic design has been further enhanced with the introduction of Cordura® fabrics for the main body.

Providing increased abrasion resistance and durability with a fresh new look, the versatile US-Drypack System provides guaranteed all-weather protection for your gear on any type of motorcycle.

What we love about this luggage system is its adpaptability. Simply put the luggage loops on your bike and you can add packs of varying sizes to suit your journey from a blat to the coast to a European tour. Several capacity options available.

PRO: very well made and designed CONS: a little pricey RATING: JJJJJ PRICE: from £69 VISIT: www.kriega.com

OPTIMATE 1 DUO The main cause of scooters and motorcycle failing to start, particularly after a lay off in colder weather…the battery.

Why not hook your bike to a smart charger so they are always ready to go? An essential piece of kit for any bike, OptiMate 1 Duo features precise microprocessorcontrolled charging and long-term maintenance. Maintain any type of 12 volt lead-acid battery, filler cap/wet cell, sealed AGM (MF) or GEL and 12.8/13.2V lithium (LiFePO4) batteries without overcharging.

The OptiMate maintenance programme delivers only what the battery needs, never overcharges, never undercharges.

PRO: maintains battery in a charged state CONS: none PRICE: £39.99 RATING: JJJJJ VISIT: www.optimate.co.uk

F O R

Y O U

GERBING MICROWIREPRO HEATED JACKET LINER If you are serious about riding in all conditions then this product could be the answer to keeping warm and safe…

Gerbing unveil a brand-new version of its flagship jacket liner, their warmest yet. Retaining the proven and popular features from the previous model, the new liner now features the patented MicroWirePRO heating element throughout the whole jacket as well as offering a sleeker, tailored fit. The new 2020 MicroWirePRO liner features an increase in the patented heating wire throughout the entire jacket, including the front, rear, collar and sleeves; giving the user a better and more even distribution of heat. The liner has two dual wiring circuits to enable gloves and any other Gerbing product to be controlled independently from the jacket.

PROS: keeps body core warm in all conditions. Packs away easily. Lifetime warranty on heating elements CONS: needs to be connected to other products for full benefit PRICE: £199.99 RATING: JJJJJ VISIT: www.gerbing.co.uk

CALLING SUPPLIERS WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE YOUR PRODUCTS HERE? EMAIL NICK@SOUTHEASTBIKER.CO.UK

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

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LEGAL SUPPORT

MW SOLICITORS

HELP IS AT HAND Philip Scarles from MW Solicitors answers your questions on personal injury incidents How long will my motorcycle accident personal injury claim take?

This will depend on several factors. In a motorcycle accident the first consideration will be — can liability be established against another party? No claimant is entitled to compensation unless primary liability can be established against another party. In a motorcycle case against another motorist, this will usually involve establishing that the other motorist was negligent, for example, by pulling out of a side turning, or overtaking when it was unsafe to do so.

A further factor is whether contributory negligence will be alleged by the defendant.

For example, will the defendant argue that you were riding too fast or that your riding in some other way contributed to the accident?

If the police attended the accident scene, their Collision Report will need to be obtained along with all other evidence they have. This could include photographs, plans, storm log and all witness statements that they obtained.

This evidence is usually only released at the conclusion of any prosecutions and any appeals against convictions, taken as a result of the accident. It may then be necessary to interview the police officers involved and any independent witnesses.

If liability or contributory negligence is alleged, it may be necessary to instruct an expert such as an accident reconstruction engineer, to give an opinion on factors such as the speeds of the vehicles involved, lines of sight and braking distances.

With regard to your injuries, it will be necessary to undergo any recommended treatment and rehabilitation. This will depend on what your injuries are, such as fractures, a brain injury, psychological injuries or chronic pain. On completion of treatment and rehabilitation, it will be necessary to assess whether any residual disabilities, ongoing symptoms and impairments impact on your

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work, career and home life. If your work will be affected, will you need to reduce to part time work if you are well enough to return to your pre-accident job? Or will you need to consider an alternative career? Will you be prevented from advancing your career? Will your planned retirement date be affected?

If you will have difficulties managing at home in view of your injuries, is your current home suitable? Or would alternative accommodation, such as a bungalow, be more suitable? What assistance will you need in and around the house? Will you be able to return to motorcycling or driving? If not, what would be the best alternatives?

Causation is an issue in many personal injury cases. A claimant can only recover compensation for injuries and losses caused by the accident. Therefore if you had a pre-existing injury or illness, or would have developed an injury or illness in any event, these have to be distinguished from the injuries causes by the accident. Medical experts instructed will provide an opinion on causation, which is often a contested issue.

Medical experts will be instructed to report on your injuries and provide a prognosis.

The selection of the most suitable experts to instruct and the timing of when to obtain reports is all important. If you will have long term impairments, additional experts such as an occupational therapist will need to be considered.

In summary, a personal injury case can involve many aspects and issues, the outcome of which will determine how long any particular case will take.

Philip Scarles is a personal injury solicitor who has assisted many injured motorcyclists.

Email: philip.scarles@mwsolicitors.co.uk, visit: www.mwsolicitors.co.uk or call: 01732 758544. For questions regarding road traffic accidents, personal injury & road traffic offences email nick@southeastbiker.co.uk

February-March 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

CLASSIC EVENTS FEBRUARY The MCN London Excel Motorcycle Show on the 14-16th February traditionally splits into four areas: modern, adventure, customs and classics with lots of new retail as well. Admission is a bit pricey but it’s a great way to get your biking fix in this gloomy month without getting wet and cold. Go by bike or train to avoid the car-parking fees. www.mcnmotorcycleshow.com

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CLASSIC BIKE EVENT GUIDE If you’re interested in classic bikes there’s tons to see and do in 2020.

Julie Diplock, from Elk Promotions, rounds up some classic and other motorcycling events for the South East in the coming year…

Photos: Alan Tunrer & Sharon Benton

MARCH On a smaller scale is the VMCC Men of Kent Autojumble from 9am on Saturday 21st March at the village hall, Dunkirk, near Canterbury ME 13 9LF. All proceeds go to the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance.

One of the highlights of my year is the annual Pioneer Run on Sunday March 22nd, which is the London to Brighton run for veteran motorcycles and three-wheelers. Organised by The Sunbeam Motor Cycle Club, all the machines taking part were manufactured before 1915. They leave Tattenham corner on Epsom Downs from 8am and hope to arrive at the new destination of Brighton Airport at Shoreham from 10am. As well as the hundreds of veteran machines on display at Brighton, thousands of spectators also arrive by motorcycle. It’s the biggest gathering of pre-1915 bikes in the UK, and possibly the world, and is a great free day out. If you’re following the run on a modern bike, don’t forget that the veteran bikes often have pretty primitive braking, so make sure you give them plenty of room. www.sunbeam-mcc.co.uk The South of England Classic Motorcycle Show & Bikejumble returns to the South of England Showground at Ardingly, West Sussex RH17 6TL on Sunday 29th March, with five halls of show and autojumble plus more stalls outside; it’s always busy. www.elk-promotions.co.uk APRIL The Snow Mann Test Day organised by East Sussex VMCC takes place at Bo-Peep Hill, Selmeston, East Sussex BN26 6UH on Sunday 5th April. www.eastsussexvmcc.co.uk The Ashford Classic Motorcycle Show is on Easter Monday, 13th April at Ashford Livestock Market, Kent TN24 0HB. There’s a large allmotorcycle autojumble as well as the indoor show. www.elk-promotions.co.uk MAY The Sunbeam MCC holds the Ixion Cavalcade on Sunday 3rd May for pre-1940 bikes. Ixion was the nom-de-plume of Canon Basil Henry Davies,

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

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CLASSIC EVENTS who for many years was the vicar of St Barnabas Church, Bexhill on Sea which he combined with writing for The Motor Cycle magazine from 1903 until 1961. New for 2020, the event will be based at Reid Hall in Boreham Street, Hailsham BN27 4SD. www.sunbeam-mcc.co.uk If you don’t fancy the hurly-burly of Hastings on the Bank Holiday then visit the Velocette Owners Club Open Day, and the surrounding roads are quiet too. From 10am at Hamstreet Victory Hall on the 75th anniversary VE Day Bank Holiday on Friday, 8th May. There’s always a great line-up of Velocettes on show in the village hall at this event, which raises money for the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance.

Dover Classic Motorcycle Show at Dover Transport Museum at Whitfield, Kent CT16 2JX is on Sunday 10th May. You can buy raffle tickets in aid of the museum with a top prize of a Francis-Barnett. The museum is difficult to find the first time, but well worth the visit. www.dovertransportmuseum.org.uk The Rother section of the Triumph Owners Club hold their Brit Bike Night at the Robin Hood pub in Icklesham, East Sussex TN36 4BD on Wednesday evening, 13th May. www.tomcc-rother.co.uk The Romney Marsh Classic Bikejumble on Sunday 17th May is a must if you’re looking for a new project or some spares. It takes place at Hamstreet, near Ashford TN26 2JD. With Ride-in Show and spot cash prizes together with tons of motorcycles and spares, clothing and accessories for sale in the ‘jumble. www.elk-promotions.co.uk Sunbeam MCC Conyboro Run 23rd & 24th May at The Six Bells, Chiddingly, East Sussex. This is a great pub, famed for its live music, beer and food.

The main run for pre-1940 bikes is on Sunday and there’s a club members autojumble on Saturday. www.sunbeam-mcc.co.uk The famous Ace Cafe are behind the Margate Meltdown on the late May Bank Holiday, 25th May. Check-out their website www.ace-cafe-london. com for details of their regular British Bike nights at the cafe.

JUNE British Bike Night from 7pm on Thursday 18th June at The Wagon and Horses, Charing, Kent.

Always a fantastic turn-out of bikes, parking is reserved for Brit bikes in the main pub car park, while the rest park in the field.

The Romney Marsh Classic Show and Bikejumble is on Sunday 21st June at Hamstreet, near Ashford TN26 2JD. With a Classic Show, live music and beer tent. www.elk-promotions.co.uk

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JULY The Norton Owners Club rally at Herstmonceux Castle, East Sussex BN27 1RN includes a Motorcycle Show on Sunday 6th July www.nortonownersclub.org The Rabbit Rally runs from Friday 10th to Sunday 12th July, organised by the Rother section of the Triumph Owners Club at the Robin Hood pub in Icklesham, East Sussex TN36 4BD. www.tomcc-rother.co.uk The East Sussex section of the Vintage MCC hold their Bike Show and Concours at Ashburnham, East Sussex at 2pm on Saturday 11th July. www.eastsussexvmcc.co.uk The Summer Classic Bike Show and Bikejumble returns to the South of England Showground at Ardingly, West Sussex RH17 6TL on Sunday 12th July, show and autojumble with more stalls outside. www.elk-promotions.co.uk Sunbeam MCC Garden of England Run for pre1940 bikes starts and finishes at Headcorn airfield on Sunday 19th July. As this is a working airfield the planes and parachutists, together with an old wartime museum, always make Headcorn worth a visit. www.sunbeam-mcc.co.uk Hunstman MCC Show Sunday 26th July at The Huntsman Pub, Eridge, Kent. www.facebook. com/HuntsmanMCC AUGUST The West Kent section of the VMCC hold the popular International West Kent Run over the weekend of 1st & 2nd August at The Friars, Aylesford, Kent ME20 7BX. The event attracts a lot of visitors from the Continent with interesting bikes. www.iwkr.co.uk The Sunbeam MCC Summer Pioneer Run is on Sunday 9th August. The start and finish is at The Wings Museum, near Handcross, West Sussex. www.sunbeam-mcc.co.uk The Rother section of the Triumph Owners Club hold their Brit Bike Night at the Robin

February-March 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

CLASSIC EVENTS Hood pub in Icklesham, East Sussex TN36 4BD on Wednesday evening, 12th August. www.tomcc-rother.co.uk SEPTEMBER Brighton Speed Trials Sunday 5th September, at Madeira Drive, Brighton. Started in 1905, this sprint caters for cars and bikes and is allegedly the longest-running motorsport event in the world! www.brightonandhovemotorclub.co.uk The Ace Cafe 25th Reunion Brighton Burn-Up is on September 6th. www.ace-cafe-london.com Get to Dover Transport Museum on Sunday 6th September for the Bike Raffle Draw and Classic Bike Day. www.dovertransportmuseum.org.uk If you ned some spares for your classic bike then the Romney Marsh Classic Bikejumble is on Sunday 13th September at Hamstreet, near Ashford TN26 2JD, with Ride-in Show. www.elk-promotions.co.uk Sunday 27th September is the date for the Sunbeam MCC Romney Marsh Run for pre-1931 motorcycles, making use of the quiet Romney Marsh lanes, ideal for lower-powered veterans.

Starts and finishes at the Romney Marsh Wartime Collection, Brenzett, Romney Marsh, Kent. www.sunbeam-mcc.co.uk

OCTOBER The South of England Classic Motorcycle Show and Bikejumble returns to Ardingly on Sunday 25th October, with five halls of show and autojumble plus more stalls outside. www.elk-promotions.co.uk DECEMBER Sunday 6th December sees the Jack Thompson Classic Bikes Trial return to Canada Heights, Swanley BR8 8DX. For more information visit www.sidcupmotorcycleclub.co.uk

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

31

ARE BIKERS YOUR CUSTOMERS? Can we support and action your marketing plan throughout 2020 to help attract new business through print and social media?

With a variety of options to suit a range of budgets, say ‘yes’ so bikers across our region can discover you!

If you have a product, service or event and wish to know more, simply drop us a line. Email: nick@southeastbiker.co.uk

www.southeastbiker.co.uk @southeastbiker

EVENTS

For a full list of What’s On visit

www.southeastbiker.co.uk/events

9 February

THE HAMPSHIRE ENDURO Warren Heath

14-16 February

NE London MCC, Bayford Wood

21 March

MCN LONDON MOTORCYCLE SHOW

VMCC MEN OF KENT AUTOJUMBLE

16 February

22 March

ExCel

FRED SPARKES RIAL TROPHY T , Harefield Barnet & DMCC

32

8 March

THE ROBBIE TRIAL

Dunkirk, Canterbury

PIONEER RUN Epsom Downs to Brighton City Airport

February-March 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

M.O.T & SERVICE CENTRE LTD

01273 430303 ☎ www.thwaitesgarage.co.uk

Opening Times Monday - Friday: 8:00 (lunch 12:30-1:30) - 5:30 Saturday: 8:00 - 12:00 noon

Unit 1 William Street, Portslade, West Sussex, BN41 1PZ

WORLD’S FIRST FULLY RETRACTABLE MOTORCYCLE SIDESTAND SUPPORT

WATCH NOW!

MOTORCYCLE MOT CENTRE

POINT YOUR PHONE CAMERA AT THIS QR CODE

STABALISES YOUR BIKE ON UNSTABLE GROUND Easy to use • Retractable reel • 150cm cord Soft silicone handlebar strap Withstands 500lb loads • Double-sided

A MUST FOR ANY BIKER WATCH THE VIDEOS AND ORDER ONLINE AT www.thethunderfoot.co.uk

Thunderfoot QP 0220.indd 1

15/01/2020 15:13

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

Like The Motorcycle Man on Facebook

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

33

BIKER DIRECTORY EVENTS ELK PROMOTIONS Classic Motorcycle Events in the South East

www.elkpromotions.co.uk KIT AND ACCESSORIES BOLT BIKES Motorcycle Helmets, Clothing & Accessories

01424 272121 www.boltbikes.co.uk MOTOPORT Stockists of high-quality brands – Gerbing Heated Clothing, Dane, Difi, Draggin’ jeans & Bayard helmets

01892 457373 www.gerbing.co.uk www.daneclothing.uk www.draggin-mc.co.uk LEGAL SERVICES MW SOLICITORS Serious Injury Specialists

01732 758544 www.mwsolicitors.co.uk MOTORCYCLE HIRE WEST SUSSEX MOTORCYCLE HIRE Motorcycle Hire made easy

01243 780039 www.westsussexmotorcyclehire.co.uk NEW AND USED BIKES FREESTYLE BIKES New and used Yamaha and Husqvarna on and off road

01892 782288/01243 859655 www.freestylebikes.co.uk

PRODUCTS THUNDERFOOT PUCK

World’s first retractable motorcycle puck. Makes for a great gift for any biker.

07400 653357 www.thethunderfoot.co.uk

SERVICING, PARTS, MOTS FASTLANE MOTORCYCLES

Motorcycle Sales, workshop, MOTs, tyres & kit

WEMOTO Huge range of motorcycle parts instore in Sussex and online

01273 597072 www.wemoto.com SPECIALIST SERVICES BIKE-SMART MOTORCYCLE TRAINING CBT, A2 and DAS

01732 363630 www.fastlanemoto.com

01444 441969 www.bike-smart.net

INTA MOTORCYCLE SERVICES

EXOTOGG THERMAL ARMOUR

Used bikes, servicing, tyres, parts & MOTs

01622 688727 www.intabikes.com JB MOTORCYCLES

Used bikes, MOTs, Servicing

Portable protection from the elements

01223 911 117 www.exotogg.com

01825 766351 www.jb-motorcycles.co.uk

LOVE LIFE & RIDE

THE MOTORCYCLE MAN

0118 328 0338 www.lovelifeandride.com

MOTs, Servicing & Repairs

01424 893543 www.themotorcycleman.co.uk MOTOWARD

Off road Yamaha specialists, workshop, parts, kit & accessories

01403 823222 www.motoward.co.uk ON THE WHEEL

Servicing, Repairs, MOTs, Tyres PLUS Bikes, Gear and more…

01273 020980 www.onthewheel.co.uk PAN MOTORCYCLES

Serving, Repairs, MOTs and Tyres

Airbag Vests and Jackets

VIKING MOTORCYCLE SEATS Seat upholstery specialists, repairs and upgrades

07977 874075 www.viking-motorcycle-seats.co.uk TOURING AND HOLIDAYS 1066 MOTORCYCLE TOURS Worldwide motorcycle tours

07592 193399 www.1066motorcycletours.co.uk CATALAN ADVENTURE

TIPPETTS

01444 441969 www.panmotorcycles.co.uk

New and used Hondas, servicing and parts

SNS MOTORCYCLES

0791 375 8955 www.catalanadventure.co.uk

0778 8711533 www.snsmotorcycles.co.uk

KAAPSTAD MOTORCYCLE TOURS

New and used motorcycles, kit and accessories

THWAITES GARAGE

Specialists in Motorcycle Holidays

0208 857 9198 www.warrs.com

01273 430303 www.thwaitesgarage.co.uk

01525 377520 www.Kaapstadmat.com

020 8399 2417 www.honda-tippetts.co.uk WARR’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON

Servicing, Tuning, Tyres & Track Day Preparation

Servicing and MOTs

On/off road guided tours and bike hire in Spain.

and Safaris in South Africa.

IF YOU’RE INTETRESTED IN A LISTING HERE, PLEASE EMAIL NICK@SOUTHEASTBIKER.CO.UK

34

February-March 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

12

GOOD REASONS TO JOIN THE TRF 7

1

ESTABLISHED Helping motorcyclists responsibly and sensitively access the countryside since 1970

2

GROWING The TRF is an active club with over 5000 members to ride with and 43 groups meet new friends with similar views

3

ACCESS Knowledge of over 6000 miles of Green Roads including all of your local lanes.

By comparison there are only 2000 miles of Motorways!

4

IMPROVE Develop riding skills with monthly beginners rides, accredited training and access to advanced rides

5

IDENTIFY Be seen as a Professional & Responsible Trail Rider with bike stickers and a membership card

6

DEFENCE We will back you legally if you are stopped riding a Green Road

SUSTAINABILITY Support the fight to TRF keep lanes open and maintain your rights to use them

8

ACU EVENTS TRF are an ACU club and you can gain access to ACU Events and training

9

INSURANCE The TRF provides insurance and training for ride leading and events

10

CONTACT Member only trail riding groups and comprehensive maps of legal lanes

11

FUN We ride all year round – whatever the weather

12

TRAIL MAGAZINE The only Trail bike focussed magazine in print and sent to your door

TRAIL RIDERS F E L L OW S H I P

Find your local group at www.TRF.org.uk

The most powerful passport in the world.

ARE YOU LOOKING TO GET YOUR BIG BIKE LICENCE OR PASSED YOUR TEST AFTER 1 JANUARY 2019?

YOU MAY BE ELIGIBLE TO GET YOUR TRAINING COSTS REFUNDED UP TO THE VALUE OF £1000 WHEN YOU BUY A NEW HARLEYYDAVIDSON® MOTORCYCLE.