South East Biker, Issue 68, April-June 2020

@southeastbiker www.southeastbiker.co.uk

FREE MAG REVIEWS FEATURES EVENTS ISSUE 68 • APRIL-JUNE 2020

A BREW WITH

TEAPOTONE

THE MAYDAY RUN: NEW DATES

VJ DAY RUN MALLE MILE A WEEKEND OF MADNESS

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STARTING GRID

Editor scribes

Contents As I am writing this the Coronavirus epidemic is unfolding across the UK, and indeed the world.

Motorcycle events have been cancelled or postponed and it will take some time before the long term effects are known. Whatever happens, there is sure to be an impact on the motorcycle industry and everyone involved with it. Touring and other trips are also going to be victims of this situation.

What, up to now, has been perceived as ‘normal’ life, may not be quite the same for a long time.

Even a simple act such as riding to your local bike watering hole and picking up a copy of SEB may be an issue in the coming weeks. We will continue to put out as much relevant information as possible via the website and Facebook.

4 VJ Day Run

6 TEA WITH TEAPOT ONE 12 Schuberth C4 Review 14 Ride Better With KIAM 15 Dunlop Meridian Review

Stay safe

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.

COVER IMAGE: TeapotOne aka Bruce Smart

© 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

16 GOING THE EXTRA MALLE MILE 18 New gear spotlight 22 Safari Days And Starry Nights 25 Nick Brisland Trust Update 26 Crisis Ride 2020 28 Legal Support From MW Solicitors 30 Kumaji 2 Kit Review 31 News From MAG 3

VJ DAY COMMEMORATIONS

VJ DAY RUN

(AKA MAYDAY RUN • NEW DATE) Just before we sent this magazine to print, the Coronavirus was wreaking havoc with events including the traditional Mayday Run; a route from Locksbottom near Bromley in Kent to Hastings on the South Coast. For 2020, it was to mark VE Day but, being postponed, it now commemorates the 75th anniversary of VJ Day on Saturday 15th August.

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n 1979, a young Naval engineer, named Tim Gooderson, founded the Mayday Run on what was then the first official May Day Bank Holiday Monday. He and a group of his mates rode their motorbikes from Locksbottom in Kent to Hastings on the south coast; a distance of about 60 miles. Over the years, this spontaneous ride-out grew to become one of the biggest free-to-attend motorcycle events in Europe. In 2018, on its 40th anniversary, Police estimated that 46,000 bikers invaded Hastings, making the event bigger in one day than the Isle of Man TT Races are in a fortnight.

On 8th May 1945, Germany finally surrendered to the Allies after six long years of hard gruelling war. While the war in the far east was still ongoing, Europe had a big reason to celebrate.

While the war had brought about millions of military and civilian deaths and casualties, the end of the war in Europe (VE Day) signified a new era of peace and Britain partied like it had never partied before.

Friday 8th May 2020 was declared a Bank Holiday to allow for celebrations of the 75th Anniversary of VE Day, that was before we saw the Coronavirus take hold. Tens of thousands of bikers were planning to ride the traditional Mayday Run (VE Day Run) from Locksbottom to Hastings on this new Bank Holiday to celebrate the end of WWII in Europe.

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VJ DAY — SATURDAY 15TH AUGUST 2020 As VE Day Run was postponed, it will now commemorate the 75th Anniversary of VJ Day — Victory over Japan Day which marked the end of WWII — on Saturday 15th August.

The VJ Day Run is not an organised ride out.

There is no start time, or prescribed route. Bikers just meet in Locksbottom from around 7am and head off to Hastings via any route they like, when they feel like it. This is a spontaneous mass movement of people who share a love of motorcycles and for 2020 they will also be sharing a desire to celebrate the end of WWII tyranny.

Hastings is about two hours from Locksbottom and the roads are rammed with bikes. Families often sit by the roadside and wave the bikers on. When the bikers arrive in Hastings they will find a very warm welcome. Parking is organised in the sea front car park and all along the promenade. Over 60 bike traders and exhibitors of all types will have set up stalls. A giant video screen in the town centre will be projecting the national celebrations from London and around the country.

Every biker will want to be a part of the biggest free-to-attend biker event in the UK to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of VJ Day. For more information visit www.bike1066.com, or follow us: www.facebook.com/bike1066.

April-June 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

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A BREW WITH…TEAPOTONE

A S P OT O F S P LO S H W I T H

TEAPOTONE

Bruce Smart first graced our pages in 2011 as we helped to publicise his impending around the world adventure on a Suzuki GSX-R. Did it change his life?

Our resident motovlogger, o75 catches up with TeapotOne for a brew.

Bruce, you came into motorcycling quite late in life. What invited you to the saddle?

I’d always had a fascination with bikes from a young age. I remember my dad arriving home from the oil rigs one weekend, and his mate had this huge Suzuki motorbike. Picking me up, he plonked me on the tank. I always remember thinking it was the best thing ever. However, my parents made it clear bikes were dangerous, so they just weren’t on my horizon until my late 20s when Long Way Round came along. It rekindled my desire for motorbikes and travel.

Where did you get the idea to go around the world?

Fast forward a few years and my mum was now very ill after battling cancer for almost ten years.

Watching one of the episodes of Long Way Round with her, I started to moan saying how it

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was okay for Ewan McGregor to swan off around the world; he had all the money and support etc. My mum turned to me and said I had always wanted to ride a bike and never done it. After watch Long Way Round years earlier, I’d spoken about riding around the world but here I still was not doing anything about it. She said, “Don’t get to my stage in life where you face the end and regret what you’ve not done in life. Look after those you love, but ‘live your life’”.

April-June 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

A BREW WITH…TEAPOTONE That changed my life there and then. I booked my DAS and, by the time I’d passed the test, my mum had gone into St Christopher’s Hospice in Penge. I went straight to P&H Motorcycles in Crawley to pick up my brand new GSX-R600, climbed into my power ranger suit and rode to the hospice. As I walked into mum’s ward, she looked over, and I shook the keys, “I’ve done it!” She gave me a huge smile and hug, then made me promise her I’d do my trip. Five days later, she lost her battle.

Your choice of motorcycle for the trip was, shall we say, an interesting one. Why did you choose the Suzuki GSX-R 1000?

Why not? I’d always ridden Gixxers; I loved them and was used to riding big miles. Regardless of the weather, I ride around 40,000 miles a year. It’s my mode of transport.

If Sjaak Lucassen and Nick Sanders did it on R1s, then why not me? I also wanted to try and raise some money and awareness for a few chosen charities. I also wanted to be different to everyone else at the time who seemed to be setting off on adventures astride GSs.

How did you get your name, TeapotOne? TeapotOne was the callsign in the Met Police’s mobile tea wagon. It would be deployed for large-scale public demonstrations, for example.

You knew that you’d get ten mins off the front line for a brew, get your breath back then get back to it. As I was a serving police officer in the Met, and I was taking a career break for the trip, it just seemed the right name.

Luggage-wise, the Suzuki was pretty fully loaded. Was this a contributory factor with the subframe breaking? What implications did this have with the trip?

When I first set off in October 2012, I had a ridiculous amount of kit with me, but it only weighed around 55kg — still less than a pillion. I admit I was taking the Gixxer outside its normal parameters.

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

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A BREW WITH…TEAPOTONE When the subframe first broke, I was in the Sahara Desert in Mauritania, West Africa. I was riding along a lovely tarmac road when, at a crest, it suddenly dropped three feet the other side. I was doing 90mph at this point before soaring through the air in the style of the Dukes of Hazard. As I landed, the subframe snapped like a twig. I stayed upright, though.

I managed to get the subframe soldered enough to get me back on the road. Once back in Blighty, a short time later, I bought a proper replacement subframe from Suzuki only to find this snapped as I left the M1 going to a trackday at Donnington.

The next subframe lasted until halfway across Russia, and after welding it again, it snapped 2,000 miles later just before I entered Mongolia. Further welding got me to Japan where I replaced it with a bespoke heavy-duty solid aluminium one built for me by a stunt company in Kent.

Knowing what you know now, what luggage would you have left behind?

I didn’t need my two weeks of ration packs or any of the camping kit like the stove, pans, cup, inflatable mattress, the full toolkit, enough clothing to cater for any weather etc. If I get the chance to go on another big trip, I will take my phone, credit card, passport, and some spare pants and socks. I did the whole RTW trip with three t-shirts, three pairs of pants and socks, a pair of lightweight trousers which, with a couple of zips, become shorts, and a fleece.

That’s all I needed as you can wash as you go, or just buy kit as you need it.

the region of £55K. That includes absolutely everything; the bike, clothing, visas, carnet, vaccinations, shipping, lodging, food/water, tyres, servicing, repairs, even my mortgage when tenants did a bunk without paying for a few months! I’ve done a vid about how to work out a budget for a big trip at http://bit.ly/RTW-cost Did social media help, when you needed help?

Absolutely. I utilised social media heavily in the build-up to the trip as I documented the planning and prep. Once on the road, people got into it, and I enjoyed sharing my experiences with them through posts and video.

People would start telling me about their friends and family who lived around the world, and then I’d get invited to visit them on my travels. Initially, it felt too weird to accept and just turn up at a stranger’s home, expecting them to host you, but after a while, I started taking people up on their incredibly kind offers. It was the best thing I ever did and brought a whole new ‘human’ dimension to it. As I was travelling alone, it would have been straightforward to just keep myself to myself and not interact much with people as I travelled. By putting myself out there and agreeing to meet people it brought in new characters to the adventure, continually changing the vibe of it all as everyone is different.

When I had any technical issues, I could always just post a pic or vid up on Facebook, and within minutes I’d have people suggesting solutions or pointing me in the right direction. It was awesome, and it’s something I’ve carried on to this day.

“I was riding along a lovely tarmac road when, at a crest, it suddenly dropped three feet the other side.

I was doing 90mph at this point before soaring through the air in the style of the Dukes of Hazard.”

How long did the trip take?

442 days.

As a ball-park figure, how much did it cost?

The entire trip from start to finish cost me in

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What was the most challenging moment?

There were a few and maybe not what you were expecting either. The first one was at 0900hrs on the 1st October 2012; the day I was to set off on my trip of a lifetime. I’d spent over three years planning and dreaming of this moment, but when it came to me actually setting off, I had this

April-June 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

A BREW WITH…TEAPOTONE almost overwhelming urge to stay! I had all my family and friends around me, and I just thought, “What the hell am I doing leaving all this to go who knows where and face who knows what!”

It took a real jolt to get me going and start the journey.

The next big moment for me was Mauritania in West Africa. I had a rough time there for one reason or another, and I found myself questioning what I was doing, and whether it was worth risking my life for a ‘dream’. Thankfully, I eventually got back on the road and had a newfound resilience to life which saw me through the rest of the trip. There were lots of challenging moments for a variety of reasons, but I just had the mindset that I’d never, ever give up. Just keep going, keep digging down deep and pushing on, things will work out in the end. That’s true in life in general for me now, to be honest.

about 80 miles; it was physically and mentally one of the hardest things I’ve done. You just had to keep going, keep picking the bike up every time I dropped it, just get back on and keep plugging away. The sense of achievement eventually seeing beautiful flat tarmac road was just intense. It’s still to this day one of the highlights of the trip for me, and I’m so glad I captured a lot of it on camera for the vids.

Since your trip, you uploaded the Round the World trip onto YouTube. How has this impacted your life?

I filmed and edited on the road. Episodes were published on YouTube every month or so to document the journey as I went. I only had about 600 subscribers by the time I finished the trip.

However, the channel has since grown a bit. I get more and more people contacting me to say they’ve discovered the trip and are loving following it.

It seems to have a real positive, inspirational effect on people, and I love that. I kind of feel I’m paying something back; it was following others who had gone before me, which gave me the inspiration to do my trip. Anything I can do to pass this on is just awesome in my book.

What was the most euphoric moment?

There was a stage in Laos where I ended up way in the mountains along the old Ho Chi Minh trail. They hadn’t finished the road yet, so it was just mud and rock that took you along some incredibly beautiful but remote villages and scenery. It took me almost two days to cover

The adventure starts in store

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09/01/2017 10:439

A BREW WITH…TEAPOTONE Was it always a plan to continue with a YouTube it comes down to finances and time. He’s selfchannel after your return? employed and has a young family, so timescales Not at all. I finished the trip in June 2014, and that are a factor as well as cost, but I’m sure we’ll get was that. I went back to work and back to my something sorted in the future. We’ve already old life. I still kept TeapotOne social on Facebook done a little special with LampChops, TMF, Rich and Twitter because I continued to be contacted and AndyManCam, where we raced a plane by those who had followed the trip. It was also against three bikes http://bit.ly/Bikes-Vs-Plane. a great way to stay in touch with the people I’d In terms of where and why, I’d love to do met and become friends something like Ushuaia to Dead with too.

Horse with Rich. He’s got a sense As time passed, I of adventure so I don’t think started to be invited he’d be too phased by it all, plus to adventure travel he’s incredibly creative with meets like the HUBB a fantastic eye for details and and then the Overland photography. I think between us Event, where I’d be a we could produce quite a special guest speaker. I really series of vids both in terms of enjoyed the opportunity production quality and content. to meet and talk with He’s an amiable, approachable people, listen to the guy who is genuinely interested adventures they’d done, in meeting people. I think it’d From left: two-wheeled YouTubers TeapotOne, or the dreams they had be great just to hit the road and TMF, Lamb Chop Rides and Richy Vida for future trips. I felt see what happens. Are there any like I’d really changed as a person; I just didn’t budding backers out there? fit back in with my old life particularly well. I’d changed so much yet people were just still doing There is no doubt that your videos have inspired the same old thing, moaning about what they’d confidence with many motorcyclists to take been moaning about before I left, and I felt quite their bike to tour foreign lands for the first time. claustrophobic. I had an overwhelming desire to What tips would you give to anyone thinking of just go. Anywhere. It didn’t matter where — I just booking the ferry? needed to be back on the road.

Just do it! Go! Make sure you have the relevant That’s where I started touring a lot more as it European breakdown, recovery and travel gave me something to focus on and look forward insurance in place, then hit the road. to. I’d film these trips but didn’t do much with them; I was still thinking that ’TeapotOne’ was What are the benefits with a guided tour and a done as it was the trip, not me as ‘TeapotOne’.

DIY one?

A good mate of mine had a chat one day and With guided tours, you just turn up and go. pointed out that it was the other way round — I Everything is sorted, and you’re guaranteed was actually the TeapotOne brand, not the trip. I the best roads, beautiful places to stop and was missing the interaction with people that I’d good hotels at the end of the day. If anything had on the trip and, in late October 2016, I just happens like breakdowns or accidents, you’re posted a vid on YouTube called ‘After the Dream’ with someone who can help sort it immediately. http://bit.ly/RTW-After-the-dream. It got a great But you don’t need to follow the leader if you reception. Instantly I got that buzz again, and it are given the route. You don’t even need to ride went from there to where we stand now. I recently within the group if you don’t want to. However, resigned from the police and I am now a full time you could be constrained by the route and ‘YouTuber’! destination for that day.

A DIY tour gives you the freedom to go There appear to be a few names synonymous wherever you want, stop anywhere for any with vlogging moto touring trips; two being length of time; just do your own thing. However, you and Richy Vida. Would you venture on an if anything happens, then it’s down to you to sort extensive trip with him and if so, where would it out. you go and why?

Rich is a top man; I love the bloke like a brother How are your ChickenStrips guided tours going? and would love to do a big trip with him. We’ve Fantastic, thanks. As I’m going full time with all spoken a bit about doing something, but as ever this, I decided to double the number of tours

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April-June 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

A BREW WITH…TEAPOTONE I was doing with ChickenStrips, yet they still all sold out with a matter of weeks. I mainly concentrate on the Picos de Europa and the Pyrenees in northern Spain as, in my opinion, they offer the best riding roads. There’s hardly any traffic, it’s cheap as chips for food and accommodation, and the old bill out there aren’t too bothered about bikes if you’re up in the mountains. It’s biking heaven!

What are your plans for the next few years?

TeapotOne for me is all about the mantra of ‘Live Your Life’. I want to get out there and meet the biking community across the globe, ride their favourite roads with them, ride different bikes, use different kit, all the while exploring different parts of the world and sharing it with people through the vids and other content. The world is an awesome place but, even right here on our doorstep, the UK is a fantastic place to ride too; full of amazing, friendly people and I just want to show that.

Do you feel fate is with you?

This is where I set myself up for a fall as everything is going so great just now, but yes, I think life has a habit of throwing opportunities

your way, but it’s down to you to recognise them and do something with it. I always try to keep a positive mindset about things, even when it feels like everything is against me, you just have to keep slogging away and striving to make whatever it is you’re doing, or aiming for, a success. NEVER give up if it’s what you really, really want.

Do you feel you’re ‘living your life’?

Mate, I’m living the dream! • #teapotone

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PRODUCT REVIEW

ON YOUR HEAD

SCHUBERTH C4

Without doubt, a premium German-made modular helmet, the Schuberth C4 is aimed at touring and sports riders. John Allsopp measures this modular lid for size

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he main shell is a composite fibre, which has an excellent deep shine.

The sleek profile was developed using Schuberth’s 12m-long wind tunnel which generates wind speeds up to 190km/h.

Modular (flip) helmets are always going to be heavier due to the mechanism required. However, at 1620g, this is a weighty contender.

While testing, it never resulted in a strain on the neck muscles, you definitely know you have this helmet on. The model we tested was a Basic, but Schuberth also boasts a Pro model and a

sub-1500g Pro Carbon. A medium, in this configuration, weighs 1707g, with the SC1 Bluetooth intercom installed. This compares to 1691g for a medium Shoei Neotec — the C4’s main rival, with its intercom system fitted.

As you would rightfully expect from a helmet at such a premium price, the fully-removable lining is very soft and comfortable. It is the plushest liner we have encountered on a helmet so far. It even extends to soft material which goes inside the chin stop.

The C4 has a ratchet-type chin strap fastener, which is quick to use and gives a secure fit every time (once you’ve adjusted the buckle to suit your neckline). A fabric tag on the clip makes it

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April-June 2020 • South East Biker Magazine 23/03/2016 10:45

PRODUCT REVIEW easy to pop open, even with gloves on.

You should always try any bike kit for size before you buy it. I found the C4 to be an extremely good fit. The neckline is also quite high, so the helmet doesn’t tend to get in the way of bulky jacket collars or rucksack straps.

We found ventilation was an issue with the C4.

While the extending two-stage top vent absorbs a decent amount of air, the chin vent (open or closed), is easy to operate but didn’t clear misting effectively. This even resulted, at speeds up to 30mph, in some fogging of the Pinlock 70 that the helmet was equipped with.

There is no breath deflector, and airflow feels more directed up to the brow, which would be a benefit for summer riding and, to be fair, at over 30mph the lid has a good movement of air inside.

Obviously, in hotter weather, you could get plenty more air when riding by opening the chin bar and raising it. Unfortunately, the C4 is not dual-homologated, so legally in the UK, it needs to be in the closed position when riding. I do expect people to ride with the chin bar raised, but when I tried it, the mechanism had such a free movement that it tended to drop back down.

There are six stages with the visor’s ratchet. It is possible just to crack the visor open, but the

mechanism does feel rather cheap. Despite this, it seals well when fully latched down, preventing any water from running inside during the rain, and is very easy to remove and replace for cleaning.

The aperture is extensive, giving good peripheral vision, though the lower edge of the aperture seems quite high, so it’s not as large a view of the world as it might be.

The integrated sun shield is easy to operate from the left lower edge of the lid but, again, fogged easily in the conditions we tested in.

While the wind-tunnel design suggests this could be one of the quieter lids on the market, and the well-enclosed neck skirt certainly helps, the Schuberth C4 is still a helmet that needs earplugs. All modular helmets will tend to be louder, but in this configuration, it’s far from the noisiest design on the market.

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ADVANCED RIDING SKILLS

BE FAST BE CONFIDENT BE ADVANCED

Nick Farley shows you how you can lower your odds of becoming a statistic

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s you’re a biker I’m sure you’re used to constantly hearing from your non-riding friends, your parents, your partners, and from every other wise person on the planet, that motorbikes are dangerous. They insist that you’ll probably kill yourself by the end of next week and the chances are that you won’t even last that long. They will say that they know that it won’t be your fault, but it’s the other silly beggars on the road, because on a motorbike you are so vulnerable. And they’re right of course — we are very vulnerable.

The accident figures for motorbikes are pretty bad, because the sort of minor error that in a car might lead to an emergency stop and a slight dent in the bodywork can be fatal for us. However,

if you learn to ride to an ‘Advanced Standard’ you can start to change things.

To be a qualified advanced rider means that you will have learnt to ride to a very high standard. It doesn’t mean you’ll be slow; far from it. It means that at any speed you will simply be a much better and more confident rider. You will corner, brake, accelerate and filter better than most other riders on the road.

Being an advanced rider is not a guarantee that you won’t become an accident statistic, but it will dramatically change the odds in your favour and, above all, you will get much more fun out of riding anywhere and everywhere with anyone in any conditions.

For more info, visit: www.kamg.org.uk

BE A BETTER RIDER Since it started over 40 years ago the Kent Advanced Motorcyclists Group has trained more than 3000 riders to the Advanced standard, but KAMG is not just a training group, it’s also a social motorcycle club that last year organised six tours across seven countries as well as countless one-day rideouts.

There are monthly group nights with guest speakers and bike demo nights, plus there is a full colour quarterly magazine.

Be a better rider, be a more confident rider and enjoy riding more by joining KAMG. Contact Tina Underwood at chair@kamg.org.uk 14

April-June 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

PRODUCT REVIEW

G E T T I N G TO G R I P S W I T H

DUNLOP TRAILMAX MERIDIAN TYRES Dom Humby tries on new boots for size

B

ack in November 2019, I bought a Triumph, a 2000-plate Tiger 900 (885i). Having read the history on them, I knew the bike was capable of a lot of tarmac miles combined with a little off-road fun to earn itself the accolade of a “Big Trailie”.

I started to look at new tyres for the old girl. While at Motorcycle Live, I came across the Dunlop stand and introduced myself. After an informed chat, they suggested their new Trailmax Meridian tyre.

The tyre has been designed for a 90/10 road bias split; 90% road use with the option of

using the remaining 10% for some added grip on gravel and loose dry surfaced areas.

Once fitted and scrubbed in, I was immediately impressed with the grip, in particular in wet road conditions. The tyres took little time to warm up and I was able to keep the power down through heavy rainfall that only added to my confidence through corners, with the ability to maintain incredible stability on the straights. I know that wet or dry, I can twist that wrist and maintain a superior level of grip. Add to that the grip attained from the 10% loose surface ability and things like dodgy road surfaces (you

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

know the ones, the new gravel surfaces used today) or wash out on a rural road are not an issue. Given the amount of recent rainfall, I was surprised that even when powering out of corners, there is little to no loss of traction.

I will be venturing out soon to test in both dry and wet conditions. I have, however, managed to hydroplane on these tyres while tackling wind.

I will mention I was ‘going some’ when it happened, so could I expect this to be a regular occurrence?

A more in-depth review is to come as I continue to put the Dunlop Trailmax Meridians through their paces in more of an off-road environment! I am looking forward to this even though, being a complete offroad novice, I am expecting to drop my bike more than once.

All in all, I’m giving the Dunlop Trailmax Meridian a solid 5/5 so far. It is such a capable tyre for every road condition I’ve come across to date. It hasn’t let me down in dry or seriously wet conditions. The Dunlops have a seemingly never-ending range of grip, low warm-up time and keep the bike nice and nimble for manoeuvrability at both high and low speeds. They do their job exceptionally well. http://bit.ly/Trailmax-Meridian

15

MALLE

MALLE EVENTS MOTORCYCLE EVENT COLLECTION

John Allsopp meets with Jonny Cazzola, one of the founders of the Malle Mile.

P H OTO S :

M I L H A I L

The Malle events are unique in their approach and ethos; how was it first visualised and did it develop into the variety of events you have today?

My cousin and business partner, Robert Nightingale, and I started Malle in 2012. We were both working in design, and neither of us were that excited about the kind of work we were doing. At the time, Robert was based in New York, and we’d started to work on design projects for clients both in the UK and the US. I was at a design show in New York in early 2012.

One evening, after a gig, we started to brainstorm our transport methods, suitable luggage options (or the lack of), the kit we carry and how we’d love to be working on more exciting projects, which above all else had to involve motorcycles.

Everything started with a simple motorcycle pannier design, building up to full collections of luggage and adventure accessories.

A couple of years in, Malle began to gain considerable momentum so decided to close down our design studios and focus ourselves purely on building the Malle brand. For anyone who has started a new business with next to no money, will know it’s tough!

Robert and I were working day and night, developing new products, figuring out the complicated jigsaw puzzle that is manufacturing

16

J E R S H OV

with all British materials, while also working out how to communicate and grow the company to engage better with a growing community.

It was on a cold, dark, late evening in the workshop we decided that alongside everything else, we needed to be having more fun with Malle.

I’ve always loved the energy and engineering of racing, but never really had the money or confidence to make anything serious of it.

With the Malle Mile, we wanted to create an open playing field for all things motorcycle. A non-competitive, relaxed environment where just about anyone could turn up on something inappropriate and have a go at one of the races.

In 2015, at the first Malle Mile, we had about 32 bikes racing and around 200 people. In one heat we witnessed a 1915 Indian board tracker race against a 2015 Triumph; 100 years between the

April-June 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

MALLE two and not something we’d planned or could have ever expected, but what a treat! Last year, we had over 500 motorcycles of all shapes and forms racing in the eight ‘Run What You Brung’ classes across the now four races; The Sprint Race, The Hill Climb, The Midnight Mile, and The Malle100.

In 2017, Robert put forward the idea for the Great Malle Rally on the table. We wanted to host the longest motorcycle rally in the UK, taking up to 100 riders from the very northern part of Scotland to the most southern part of England.

Since then the rally has switched; we now start at the very Southern tip of the UK and navigate 100 riders through the best riding roads throughout England, Wales and Scotland, finishing up at The Castle of Mey in Thurso. Each year we plan to launch new, challenging rallies, taking riders through the wildest endmost beautiful landscapes possible.

What goes into organising the Malle Mile? Do you use volunteers?

In the beginning, we used to get away with planning everything a month or so ahead of the race. We are now lucky to be working with so many great partners and supporters, such as The Bike Shed.

With the events at the size they are, means we have to start planning each event almost a year ahead of the date. We need to make sure all suppliers are booked in, and everything is orchestrated in the correct way. We must ensure everyone is safe, fed, watered, entertained, and well looked after from when they step through the gates or on to the first checkpoint until it’s over.

Every year we listen and learn a bit more and, as a general ethos, we try to make everything better rather than bigger, fine-tuning logistics and adding new and fun races or rally camps in each year. That said, when you get over 500 amateur motorcycles riders tearing up the grounds of a 17th Century manor house, there is always something you could never have predicted!

Luckily, we have Mimi, a very talented events manager, who helps us coordinate everything. It’s good to have someone on the team to play devil’s advocate for some of the crazy ideas we through on the table. That said most of the fun ones usually get through!

We’re also always blessed by the enthusiasm of each and everyone one there. There is always an air of respect for each other regardless of your age, experience, type of motorcycles you ride, being able to do what we do at such an incredible venue and for keeping the atmosphere fun, inclusive and open. Each year we put together a

team of marshals that help build and orchestrate the event, we couldn’t do it without them.

With an incredible setting so close to the city, how did you secure the venue, Kevington Hall?

We were fortunate with Kevington Hall. I was discussing the idea of a race with a good friend of mine and artist, Stephen Garrett. At the time he was working constructing a 14ft bronze ostrich for a house in South East London. Steve was adamant that we connected with the owner of Kevington Hall, Jonathan Jackson. We first met briefly in London and the next time at Kevington Hall, where we had dinner. A couple of hours and a few drinks later, we were all sat on the roof of the manor house at 2am mapping out a race track. The rest, as they say, is history! It’s quite the contrast from weddings Jonathan usually hosts throughout the year.

Could you give us the dates of all this year’s events including locations etc?

The Mile Beach Race: 26th September 2020, Margate Beach. www.mallelondon.com/beachrace/ The Great Malle Rally: 30th August-6th September 2020. The Lizard, Cornwall to The Castle of May, Scotland. www.mallelondon.com/ rally/ The Malle Mile 2020: 24-26th July, 2020.

Kevington Hall, London. https://mallelondon.com/ the-mile/ All events and dates are subject to change.

Do you have plans for 2021?

Yes, ‘The Great Malle Mountain Rally’. Starting in Austria, riding 1500 miles through the alps, entering six countries, reaching elevations of over 2770 meters and ending up at sea level in Monaco. Visit our website www.mallelondon.com/ mountain-rally to know more.

We would encourage people to sign up to our mailing lists to be updated with any news and updates regarding the races and rallies.

Follow us on Instagram @mallelondon or visit our website www.mallelondon.com.

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

17

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

L A T E S T

G E A R

SDOC100 TECHNICAL WASH AND REPROOFER REVIEWED: Wash your gear with ease with SDoc100 Technical Fabric and Leather Wash (250ml) and Reproofing Spray (300ml).

Pull out your armour, open the pockets and follow the simple instructions. What could be easier? While reviewing this item, a second wash was needed for desired results.

Reproofed the jacket with enough to do gloves as well.

PROS: Easy to use, impressive results.

CONS: You may need to hog the washing machine twice to get best results.

PRICE: Wash £11.99, Reproofer £12.99 RATE: JJJJJ VISIT: www.motohaus.com

MOTOGP20 – THE GAME

Be part of the action and community gameplay with MotoGP20 available on several platforms. Enjoy the exhilerating thrill of riding, take control of your own career, decide the development of the bike and manage your technical unit to win. Improved physics and tyre wear. Unleash your creativity with six graphic editors.

PROS: Gameplay and graphics.

CONS: Can’t say. We haven’t played it yet!

PRICE: £39.99 RATING: JJJJJ VISIT: www.motogpvideogame.com

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F O R

Y O U

RIPPER AUTOMATED GOGGLE ROLL-OFF SYSTEM

Goggles constantly covered in mud? Looking for rapid visability? Here’s an answer. The Ripper is a revolutionary system for the RollOff Goggle. With the press of the wireless handlebar button, The Ripper rapidly pulls the cord on most roll-off systems to clear the riders vision in less than a second.

PROS: Lightweight at 116g, wireless but also has manual override, practical CONS: A little bulky PRICE: TBC but expect IRO £130 RATING: JJJJJ VISIT: www.riskracingeurope.com

GIVI GRT719 RUCKSACK WITH INTERGRATED WATER BAG

Givi’s GRT719 3-litre rucksack is ideal for off-road use. It conforms perfectly to the rider’s body and has a 2-litre water bag withj drinking tube on the shoulder strap, with a locking system keeping it in place. The Hydrapak Elite T523 water bag opens and closes with a Slide Seal Top, making it easy to fill and creating a watertight seal.

PROS: Compatible with most hydration packs CONS: Trouble finding places to buy one PRICE: IRO £75 RATING: JJJJJ VISIT: www.givi.co.co.uk

April-June 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

L A T E S T

G E A R

F O R

Y O U

PREMIER HYPER HELMET

LOMO WATERPROOF BAGS

New for 2020 Premier Hyper uses the latest race technology and safety, with comfort and practicality for the road. Its outer shell is made from an advanced tri-composite fibre and comes in two external sizes for the smallest, lightest possible helmet in each fitment range (from 1370g). Pinlock-ready, the quick-release visor is a generous 11% wider than previous models, giving improved all-round vision.

A dark visor is included with every Hyper and can be swapped with the clear visor in seconds using the quick-release mechanism.

The helmet is fully Bluetooth compatible for connectivity on the move PRO: Well priced CONS: None PRICE: From £269.95 (full carbon £389.95) RATING: JJJJJ VISIT: www.thekeycollection.co.uk

UNDER REVIEW: Durable PVC outer shell roll top bags use RF welding technology for the seams; no stitch holes for water to penetrate. Lomo boasts it can even withstand brief immersion if closed correctly.

We tested both the 15-litre dry bag and waist pouch that can be strapped to panniers or rack. Both did a fantastic job keeping things dry — even in torrential rain. Really good value for money.

PROS: Good quality, secure and dry CONS: After daily regular use, the outer layer started flaking but no affect with waterproofing RATE: JJJJJ PRICE: Dry/tail bag £29.99, Waist pouch £10 VISIT: www.lomo.co.uk

COMPREHENSIVE SERVICE KITS

VISORCAT

From Wemoto the comprehensive service kits provide all the parts you need to service your motorbike. It also includes latex gloves, stickers and a useful, washable and reusable Wemoto bag. Depending on your model, the kits will include some of the following: air filter, oil filter, oil strainer, fuel filter, NGK standard or iridium spark plugs, sump plug washer, oil filter o-ring, oil filter screen and engine oil. Service kits are available for BMW, Honda, Kawasaki, KTM, Suzuki, Triumph, and Yamaha models.

PRO: All you need to service your bike CONS: Website functionality: a tad challenging to search, find and buy online PRICE: Varies depending on model RATING: JJJJJ VISIT: www.wemoto.co.uk

UNDER REVIEW: Wash and wipe your visor while you ride, for better vision, enjoyment and safety. Clear flies, dust and dirt in summer, road spray, salt, in winter and general road grime all year round. Fill the tank with Visorcat wash, or water. You can top up when you stop for fuel. A wick sucks the fluid through to the sponge, so you can wash your visor. The highly absorbent sponge is Visorcat’s secret weapon against dirt. It holds many times its own weight in fluid.

When you wipe your visor, the sponge flap stays closed so the twin wipers can clean off the residue. It’s a simple as wash and wipe!

PRO: It’s simple and it works CONS: None RATING: JJJJJ PRICE: from £36.99 VISIT: www.visorcat.com

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

19

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

L A T E S T

G E A R

UCLEAR MOTION INFINITY BLUETOOTH INTERCOM SYSTEM

UNDER REVIEW: In a recent issue, we put Cardo and Interphone up against each other, and we were nothing short of impressed.

However, when roaming through various social media platforms, we came across Motion Infinity from Uclear; a brand we had never heard of before. We all love an underdog, so we decided to see how it stacks up. We currently have Motion Infinity under review for a future issue. In the meantime, let us whet your appetite with some of its unique features. GESTURE CONTROL: Simply it sends out a sensor beam from the unit, allowing basic hand gestures to command the most common features such as volume and pause/restart music without touching the actual control unit. Handy if wearing thick winter gloves! DYNAMESH: The first-ever mesh intercom network combined with Multi-Hop automatic switching. The unit pairs with mesh and non-mesh units, and autoreorganises as group riders change positions.

This ensures stable and constant connections over further distances. E-Z PAIRING: one-touch pairing of devices. GRAPHIC EQUALISER AND BALANCER: for any music lover. TALK TIME: 18 hours with 400 hours standby. UMOVE: the unit automatically shuts off when you after you take your helmet off and is on again by the time you put your helmet over your head.

Want more? Well, initial road-testing bodes very well for the Uclear Motion Infinity, however, due to the recent restrictions on non-essential travel, all is on hold so keep an eye out for for a more fulsome review.

PROS: Features.

CONS: None found just yet.

PRICE: Single, €299.95, Dual, €539.95 RATING: JJJJJ (Based on spec.)

VISIT: www.uclear.eu

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F O R

Y O U

HELD TWIN II GLOVE

UNDER REVIEW: From HELD, a family-run company in Germany, comes this two-in-one GORETEX membrane motorcycle glove that features a visor wiper, tunnel strap, stretch fabric panels on the back of the hand, with a special leather on the finger to allow for smartphone operation. It comes with velcro cuff adjustments.

Protection is offered by impacttested knuckle protection, Held’s Armaprotec reinforces the thumb and ball of the hand and is certified EN 13594:2015. It comes in half sizes from 7 through to 12. A great glove for any touring motorcyclist.

PROS: Very comfortable, GORE-TEX. CONS: Only available in black. Price.

PRICE: £175.99 RATING: JJJJJ VISIT: www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk

BLAZEWEAR HEATED VEST Constructed in a wind and water resistant outer nylon shell, the heated vest is perfect for cold weather. Thanks to its ultra-thin profile, the heated vest can be comfortably worn under most motorcycle jackets and reduces bulk to provide more comfort and movement on the road. With three temperature settings, the subtle heat elements are integrated in four zones using flexible carbon fibre heating pads, ensuring full flexibility for users with no bulky wiring.

To feel the heat, simply connect the jacket to your bike and press the button on the builtin one-touch LED waterproof heat controller.

PROS: Easy to use. Plug in a go.

CONS: None.

PRICE: £139.99 RATING: JJJJJ VISIT: www.blazewear.com

April-June 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

L A T E S T

G E A R

MPW RACE DEPT. REAR PADDOCK STAND Whether you’re getting tyre warmers onto your track bike, or lubing your chain in the driveway, the MPW Race Dept.

Rear Paddock Stand is the perfect accessory for any motorcyclist.

Easily assembled within minutes and strong enough to lift all but the heaviest cruisers, it’s the perfect addition to any garage. The adapters are easily swappable if you decide to fit bobbins further down the line and are available to purchase separately from MPW. PROS: Heavy-duty construction, easy to assemble, lifts up to 200kg CONS: For the price, none.

PRICE: £31.99 RATING: JJJJJ VISIT: www.motorcyclepartswarehouse.co.uk

BIKEEYES TRACKER

UNDER REVIEW: Designed and developed by experts in the field of GPS tracking, BikeEyes is powered by Fleetsmart that tracks tens of thousands of valuable assets and vehicles around the clock. BikeEyes has been developed specifically for monitoring and improved security of motorbikes, both on- & off-road using both hard-wired & battery-powered devices.

You can track your bike 24-7/365 to pinpoint accuracy. Accessing online you’ll find previous journeys detailing distance, location, speed and most importantly alerting you of any unauthorised movement of your two-wheeled friend!

PROS: Cost-effective 24/7 security.

CONS: No smartphone alert features.

PRICE: £199.99 then £9.95pm after 12 months.

RATING: JJJJJ VISIT: www.bikeeyes.co.uk

F O R

Y O U

CTEK CT5 POWERSPORT

To help people maximise their battery performance CTEK has launched the CT5 POWERSPORT charger, with dedicated programs for all 12V lead-acid and lithium (12V LiFePO4) battery types.

This 2.3A, 12V battery charger has three key charging & maintenance stages to maximise the power and lifetime of the battery. It uses advanced technology to constantly monitor the battery’s power and health and take action when required — so your motorcycle is always ready to go when you are. The CT5 POWERSPORT can be attached to the battery indefinitely if required without risk of over or under charging — so it’s the ideal choice for many motorbikes that are placed in out-of-season-storage for long periods of time.

The charger is easy to use and works with all powersport vehicle 12V lead-acid or lithium (12V LiFePO4) batteries. Intended for unsupervised use, the CT5 POWERSPORT charger is simple to connect, spark proof and reverse-polarity protected to protect the user and also the battery. Furthermore, there is no need to disconnect the battery before use as it regulates mains voltage to protect any sensitive electrical equipment.

PROS: Easy to use. Plug in and forget.

CONS: None.

PRICE: £62.99 (on offer at time of publishing) RATING: JJJJJ VISIT: www.mandp.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

21

WILD TOURS

Horrible weather

Peeping Tom

SAFARI DAYS AND STARRY NIGHTS

Carolyn Lamb has an African Adventure with Kaapstad — part two

N

ext day was to be one of the highlights of the trip. We were riding into Kruger Park. We were only the sixth party of motorbikes ever to be allowed into the park and later that day we would find out exactly why bikes are generally not allowed. In the meantime, we had several hundred kilometres of riding through the highlands of Swaziland.

We stopped for a cool drink at the impressive Maguga dam hydro electric scheme and saw two fish eagles wheeling above the dam, but we couldn’t tarry long, we still had many miles to go.

There are two aspects of motorcycling which are the same the world over. First, there is ‘small boy syndrome’. All small boys love motorbikes and the Swazi boys were no exception. They loved to wave to us and give the thumbs up as

22

we sped past. The other syndrome is ‘target fixation’, a familiar concept to us all; if you look at something, you will ride straight at it!

Unfortunately for one of our number, both phenomena coincided. She was waving at a crowd of small boys and simultaneously target fixated on them. The bike careered off the road straight towards the wee boys who scattered like peas and gave her a cheer as she rode up the ditch and back onto the road. Impressive off-roading sister! Needless to say, we ribbed her mercilessly at the next stop but thankfully no-one was hurt. Alex just shook his head in despair again.

Next stop Kruger. I could barely contain my excitement.

Alex has many skills. As well as being an expert biker and businessman, he is also a qualified tracker trained in wildlife conservation. He stopped us just before the entrance to the park and explained that there was an elephant trail crossing the road just inside the gates. He would enter the park first and ensure the way was clear for us. We would follow at his signal, coasting down towards the river. We did exactly as directed and sure enough, as we drew up beside him, a huge elephant crossed the road twenty yards in front of us.

We sat amazed as the elephant plodded past.

Just as we were about to start our engines and ride on, the elephant suddenly wheeled around and started trumpeting, flapping its ears and charging towards us. Alex mouthed that well-known biker’s prayer, “Oh f**k”, whilst I sat contemplating how quickly I could learn to do a u-turn and wondering if my death notice would say, ‘trampled to death on a motorbike by an elephant’.

Alex drew his bike in front of us three women and was getting ready to make lots of noise

April-June 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

WILD TOURS when just as suddenly; the elephant lost interest in us, turned and ambled away. Alex apologised for swearing but we assured him that under the circumstances it was acceptable.

Shaking, we rode over the rickety bridge over Crocodile River. ‘Great’, I thought, ‘survived the elephant, just to fall off into a crocodile infested river’.

We were buzzing with adrenalin as we checked into our thatched huts for the day and chalked up the elephants as our first sighting of the Big Five.

I spent the rest of the afternoon watching hippos snorting and wallowing in the river then, as evening fell, we joined an organised game drive.

The sun was setting over the savannah creating a low dusk light which was the best time to see the wildlife. The animal sightings came fast. We saw impala, antelope, wildebeest and the most beautiful tailed genet. We saw little mongooses (mongeese?) civet and vultures. And we spotted lions; we saw a big-maned male lion and we watched a whole pride of lionesses with their cubs. But the greatest excitement came when we saw a leopard. They are very elusive and even the park ranger was excited to see the big cat silently glide away into the bush. I wondered how anyone could look at all these beautiful creatures and

Rhinos in Southwaite

think, ‘yes, I’d like to shoot that and put its stuffed head on my wall’.

Now we had chalked up three of the Big Five, just buffalo and rhinos to go!

Our evening continued with a barbecue out in the bush, listening to the night sounds of the animals stealthily moving about and watching bats flit around the starry African sky.

Next day I rose early and watched the elephants and hippos at the water’s edge, then we packed up and rode on to our next stop at Moholoholo.

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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

23 15/01/2020 12:56

WILD TOURS

This little piggy theived the picnic

This is a privately owned nature reserve and much smaller and less commercialised than Kruger. We rode into Moholoholo on another dirt road and were met near our accommodation by Jason, one of the wardens. He motioned Jane and me into our parking space under a shady canopy.

Eeek! Too late, I realised I had just ridden into soft sand and hadn’t had time to warn Jane who rode up beside me. We were both stuck! We couldn’t get off the bikes, we couldn’t paddle them back and we were slowly sinking into the sand. Fits of giggles overcame us again as I plaintively shouted to Jason, “Help! HELP!” I squawked.

Fortunately, he heard us and came to our rescue by placing a big stone under each of the side stands to allow us to dismount. Alex arrived to see what the commotion was about and gave us another of his despairing shakes of the head as we laughed at our predicament.

Mololoholo was a lovely friendly place and we enjoyed a home-cooked meal that evening whilst chatting to Jason and the other staff. But after many days of heat and riding, exhaustion was creeping up on us all and Jane and I left to have an early night. The best laid plans o’ mice and men aft gang awry....or in this case, it was a bush squirrel, in our chalet. There ensued a comedy sketch as we were under the beds with torches, (‘squeak’ said the squirrel), up amongst the thatch, (squeak!), we peered down between the floorboards (squeak!). Finally, the squirrel won the battle and we collapsed laughing and exhausted into our beds and left the wee critter to its own devices hoping it wouldn’t poop in our panniers.

In the morning, I wandered out onto the veranda to have a coffee when, all of a sudden, the birds

24

started sounding an alarm call. I looked round the side of the chalet and there was a huge giraffe peering back at me. I shot back into the chalet and shook Jane awake. “Look! Look!” I spluttered as she blearily wakened up. Jane sat bolt upright as I pointed out the window and we both simultaneously breathed “Wow!” The giraffe was standing ten feet from our window and was having a good old look at us as we gazed back at him. He was completely unperturbed and just stood there watching us.

What an amazing experience!

Later in the day, we saw the fourth of our Big Five sightings as we were driven in a safari truck

by Jason past the park’s buffalo herd. But no rhinoceros. The last of the Big Five was proving elusive.

We left Moholoholo rather sadly as that was our last visit to a big game park and, in keeping with the mood, the weather changed for the worse.

Riding up into the mountains, we entered into the clouds. It was freezing. The clouds were so dense we were soon soaked through. We were riding in close convoy with numerous other vehicles with hazard flashers on. Visibility reduced to a few yards and Alex gave us hi-vis vests to wear for safety. Almost like riding in Scotland really.

The last night on the road was spent in the town of Dullstroom which is the highest town in South Africa. We had a pleasant enough evening but the mood was lowering towards the end of the holiday and we still hadn’t seen any rhinos.

The next day was to be a rather boring motorway push back to Johannesburg, so with heavy hearts we packed the panniers for the last time and loaded the bikes for Joburg and set off down the motorway.

After a couple of hours of steady motorway riding, Alex slowed to pull us into a motorway service area. I was just thinking how much I had seen, that I had seen the best of South Africa but still no rhinos, when Alex started gesticulating wildly to the left. Rhinos. A whole herd of rhinos!

We parked up in the motorway service area and ran up to watch the rhinos. They started ambling towards a small lake near the cafe to take a drink. There was a tiny little baby one which was feeding from its mum and a herd of adults. Oh the excitement. We had seen the Big Five. Ten days without seeing a single rhino and nine come along at once.

On the very last day of our vacation, at a motorway service station, we finally saw rhinoceros. What a fabulous end to our South African safari.

Now that is a sight you don’t see at Southwaite.

April-June 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

COMMUNITY

NICK BRISLAND TRUST RIDE OUT Priding themselves to promote safer roads, the Nick Brisland Trust offers an update.

Here at Nick Brisland Trust, we are constantly thinking of ways to help keep people safe and what needs to change in order to do so.

In February 2018, we campaigned to change the theory test adding more about motorcyclists and vulnerable road users. Over 130,000 people signed our safer roads petition and helped us make headline news. Just recently the DVSA agreed to change the test.

Alongside this, we raise money for defibrillators. In just a year and a half we have managed to install these lifesaving machines, placing them across the UK in moto cafes and accident black spots.

My son, Nick, lost his life whilst riding with his friend Adam to a popular bike meet in Southampton. Nick was only 19 years old when he was killed.

In memory of him and everyone else who have lost their life to the road, we hold an annual rideout. These have become very popular and this year’s rideout is due to take place on the 19th of April 2020.

We meet at McDonalds in Hedge End, Southampton, and leave at 12-midday. From there we head out to Portsdown Hill, Portsmouth, and then onto Loomies Moto Café in West Meon where we hold a fabulous raffle for Track Days, BSB tickets and more.

All bikes are welcome. This is a

NICK BRISLAND TRUST RIDEOUT Ria & The Team present their 5th anniversary Rideout Proudly raising awareness & promoting safer roads.

Raising money for Defibrillators.

Remembering the fallen across the world

19th April 2020 Meeting at McDonald’s Hedgend Leaving at 12pm heading to Portsdown hill onto Loomies Moto Cafe

BIG PRIZES

Raffle tickets £1 available from Loomies Moto Cafe - West Meon & The Cutting Edge Barber Shop - 404 Portsmouth road sholing

Nick Brisland Trust Info@ nickbrislandtrust@outlook.com Call Ria 07943945638

125cc friendly ride.

For more information please email: nickbrislandtrust@ outlook.com or text/call Ria 07943 945638

Recover your true losses If your injuries from a motorcycle accident are long term, they could affect your ability to work 100% and also your future career aspirations. Even a small reduction in your annual earnings, when calculated forward to your anticipated retirement age, could result in a significant sum for lost earnings and pension. Anticipated higher earnings from experience and promotions can also be taken into account.

I am a personal injury solicitor with over 30 years’ experience and have assisted many motorcyclists whose 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 0420.indd 1 South East Biker Magazine • www.southeastbiker.co.uk

16/03/2020 09:18 25

COMMUNITY

CRISIS RIDE 2020 The Crisis Motorcycle Ride 2020 Date of Ride Saturday 20th — Monday 22rd June 2020

Mission: “Our Purpose is to end Homelessness”. Crisis is the national charity for homeless people. They help people directly out of homelessness and campaign for the changes needed to solve it altogether. There are an estimated 170,000 homeless individuals and families, including 13,000 veterans, living and in some cases dying on the streets of Britain. 720 people died on the streets last year.

Objective: To raise money and awareness for Crisis and people experiencing homelessness across Great Britain. We are aiming to raise at least £30,000, to have an amazing time riding through Britain and making friends on the way.

Event: A long distance motorcycle ride to raise funds and awareness for the charity Crisis. The ride will cover the towns and cities of Britain where homelessness is at its worst - London, Oxford, Cardiff, Coventry, Birmingham, Sheffield, Manchester, Liverpool, Hawes, Newcastle and Edinburgh.

Overnight stops at Coventry, Liverpool and Edinburgh. We will be using budget chain hotels. We will be using the best motorcycle roads we can find and avoid motorways. The event will last for three full days with at least three overnight stops.

Theme: Paying respect to all 26

Nigel Lomas

the former service personnel, many now homeless, and living and dying on the streets. We will encourage riders to wear military dress to help publicise the event.

Fund Raising Mechanisms: Riders can ride the whole or just sections of the Ride. Riders will seek individual sponsorship through the Crisis Ride Site https:// uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ Team/CrisisRide2020. We actively seeking corporate support. At all the stops we will collect from the general public using authorised Crisis charity collection boxes.

Sponsors: Bennetts Insurance and Ghostbikes.com are our official sponsors of the Ride.

Costs: Riders will provide their own motorcycles and cover their own travel, meals and accommodation costs.

Backup Support: We have the services of Pat Keenan of Mobitec

and his 7.5 ton mobile motorcycle workshop who will be following us all the way. “No-one will be left behind”.

We also have the services of Stuart and Christine Van Cliff acting as our Admin Team running ahead of us in a support vehicle.

Publicity: We will seek the involvement of all media outlets in all of the areas that we ride through. We are actively trying to encourage celebrity and sporting celebrity bikers to either join us on the ride or meet us at the stopping points in the major cities. We will be asking the main dignitaries in each location to meet us at our stops (Lord Mayors etc).

Contact Nigel Lomas 07748 937487, niglom@gmail.com, Kevin Bilton kevin.bilton@gmail.com or visit: www.crisisride.uk

April-June 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

INCENTIVES

PASSPORT TO FREEDOM What is the most important piece of paper you have ever been given?

Correct, your pass certificate after your motorcycle test. Here’s a great scheme from Warr’s that could help a mate to experience this thrill…

“Not every rider has the guts to go out there and get their big licence. In case you’re one of those (or if you’re in the midst of becoming one) then we will be celebrating this milestone with you. Get your big bike licence and we’ll help fund your training costs when you buy your new HarleyDavidson® motorcycle.

“If you know anyone who is looking to gain their full licence, or even passed their test after 1 January 2019, they could be eligible. You need to pass your test (or show you passed after 1/1/19) then select a new HarleyDavidson from Warr’s. You can

then apply for a refund of up to £500 of your training costs.”

Full details and conditions are available on the website and by contacting Warr’s. See http://bit.ly/Warrs-Passport-to-Freedom

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

27

LEGAL SUPPORT

MW SOLICITORS

A PEDESTRIAN NOT WEARING HI VIS. ARE THEY AT FAULT? Philip Scarles from MW Solicitors answers your questions on personal injury incidents The issue of whether a pedestrian who was not wearing hi vis should be contributory negligent when hit by a car was recently considered in the case of O’Driscoll v Bundred.

On 2 February 2017, at about 6.15pm, Mr O’Driscoll was walking along Broad Walk, Wilmslow, a suburban street. Carrwood Road is a minor road which joins Broad Walk from the north at an acute angle. The width of Carrwood Road at the junction is 37 metres.

Mr O’Driscoll was walking west along the northern pavement of Broad Walk. As he was crossing Carrwood Road, a car travelling west along Broad Walk went past Mr O’Driscoll.

Following that car, Professor Bundred driving in his Mercedes car turned right into Carrwood Road, on the incorrect side of the road, and collided with Mr O’Driscoll. Mr O’Driscoll suffered a serious head injury.

Professor Bundred was convicted of driving without due care and attention.

In Mr O’Driscoll’s personal injury claim, Professor Bundred admitted primary liability but alleged contributory negligence, one allegation being that Mr O’Driscoll was not wearing hi-vis clothing.

CCTV was taken from a house adjoining the junction. Mr O’Driscoll was wearing dark clothing. He reached the kerb, proceeded to cross Carrwood Road and took about 8 steps into the road before the collision.

Professor Bundred invited the Judge to draw the inference that Mr O’Driscoll must have known that cars were wont to cut the corner when turning off Broad Walk into Carrwood Road. This was not accepted, but in any event the Judge found that Mr O’Driscoll would have had no reason to suppose that a car would cut the corner

28

anything like the extent that Professor Bundred did when the accident occurred.

As to Professor Bundred’s speed, this was calculated by the police investigator at between 29 and 35 miles an hour. The CCTV showed that he was indicating right at the time of the collision, but there was no reliable evidence about when he started to indicate.

The CCTV showed that the junction was illuminated by two street lamps and that Mr O’Driscoll was also illuminated by the lights of the car in front of Professor Bundred.

The Judge rejected Professor Bundred’s submission that Mr O’Driscoll failed to keep a proper look out. Mr O’Driscoll would not have expected to encounter any vehicle travelling from Broad Walk into Carrwood Road until he was approaching the centre line, by which time he was entitled to assume that he had right of way, as rules 8 and 170 of the Highway Code make clear.

The Judge also rejected Professor Bundred’s allegation that Mr O’Driscoll not wearing hi vis clothing was a contributory factor. He was undertaking a regular trip from his workplace to his parked car, walking along a pavement on a residential street. It would be a counsel of perfection to require him to wear different clothing.

The Judge therefore rejected all of Professor Bundred’s allegations of contributory negligence and gave judgment for Mr O’Driscoll for 100% of the value of his claim.

Philip Scarles is a personal injury solicitor at MW Solicitors and has assisted many motorcyclists injured in accidents. Email: Philip.Scarles@mwsolicitors.co.uk or call 01732 758 544, or visit https://www. mwsolicitors.co.uk/motorcycle-injury-claims

April-June 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

USED MOTORCYCLES WANTED

SALES, MOTS, SERVICING AND TYRES • FREE LOCAL COLLECTION AND DELIVERY ALL MAKES SERVICED AND REPAIRED FROM CLASSICS TO THE LATEST MODELS

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

29 14/05/2018 09:26

REVIEW

ARMR

KUMAJI 2

Manny Fry tries out the ARMR Kumaji 2 Ladies’ jacket and trousers.

I

have been testing ARMR Kumaji 2 Ladies black textile adventure/ touring jacket and trousers.

This jacket has seriously sought after features, especially for its price point.

Let’s start with the outer layer: a 500DN nylon shell which provides great protection in case of an accident.

Considering the level of protection, I was impressed by how soft the outer layer felt. It also has triple lock seam technology. Its threefold stitching makes it hard to tear, which is a good thing because I have an uncanny ability to break and rip things. The thermoline liner is removable, and it boasts a Humax waterproof breathable membrane.

In summer, when it was sweltering, I was pleasantly surprised at how cool I remained. Both jacket and trousers are fitted with CE approved impact protection. It claims to be waterproof, windproof, and breathable. It certainly is all of those. On hot days, I found it very breathable; the jacket has metal flaps that hold the panels open without the material flapping about in the wind.

The trousers didn’t disappoint either.

Made of polytech D600 fabric, they too have the robust triple-seam technology and a double quilted thermal liner that is detachable. I found the liner to be a bit shorter, so it was chillier by the ankles, but not unbearable. The braces are removable, and I quite like them.

The jacket comes in both male and female versions. Now for those female riders and pillions, this will apply to you. I know first-hand how hard it can be to find gear that fits your body. I have glorious curves, and so often I find that jackets and trousers are too tight at the hips. If you get them in a size bigger to accommodate said hips, you look like you are wearing a bin bag. This

30

jacket has adjustable cinch straps at the waist, which I love because it gives me an actual figure. It also has my favourite feature; three adjusters on the arms to help not only decrease draft and keep you warm, but it stops your arms from looking too big, which is ideal. Unless that’s what you are going for; if that’s the case, you do you, girlfriend. The trousers fit well and also have the adjustable strap around the waist. I think the braces help with the fit.

I also love the sleek allblack look with fluorescent yellow accents and Vision Tech reflective panels on both the jacket and trousers.

As for the jacket’s outer pockets, I would much prefer a more solid closing system like zips instead of durable Velcro to hold your contents.

While the jacket kept me quite warm, I found that my chest still got a little chilly right towards to the neckline, but it was minimal. As for the trousers, I would have preferred if the liner goes down further. Also, the ability to cinch the legs a bit tighter like the arms would be ideal.

I have worn the jacket and trousers throughout the seasons since the summer. I even wore it while riding during cyclone Dennis where, along with pulling some interesting bike angle leans to stay upright, the gear stayed strong and true.

Although there is plenty of technology and many features, really I want to have gear that sets the bar in function, fit, and look. The Kumanji 2 by ARMR does just that.

The jacket comes in sizes 8-24 women’s and XS to 10XL men The jacket retails for £199 and the trousers for £149.99 You can get the kit at www.tri-motive.com and www.armr-moto.com

April-June 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

A BREATH OF FRESH AIR

In the uncertain times in which we find ourselves and that could be with us for a significant part of the year, Andy Carrott, MAG National Vice Chairman, got to thinking about healthy travel options.

P

ollution levels are high in some city centres and we also know that pollution levels on the London underground are horrendous by comparison to above ground (it’s all that brake dust and clutch lining material from the trains and escalators on top of the fumes). So: what is the healthiest way to travel?

As with all these issues, the matter is complex and will vary for the individual depending upon your health, where you are, the distance you need to travel and the environment you pass through to get to your destination. Very low on my travel agenda in the current circumstances would be the underground. The afore-mentioned pollution, plus proximity to other people has just got to increase the risks to your health. You cannot stay two metres away from someone on the underground.

So over-ground Wombling free has to be my starting point (younger readers please google “The Wombling Song”).

A study has shown the hierarchy for exposure to pollution, and worst to best it is: Car, Bus, Car with controlled ventilation, Cycling, Walking, Motorcycle and Mass Movement Transport.

The physical nature of cycling and walking results in heavier breathing, increasing your intake of pollutants; however, from a health perspective the increased exercise has been shown to be of greater benefit. I can add one caveat to that in respect to older gents cycling regularly where there is some evidence that the old prostate may not take kindly to it. The study does not appear to have separated trains and the underground and it’s an area that probably warrants more research, but figures for the London underground do show it to be far more polluted than above ground. The fact is, however, for many commuters, distance and other health factors mean walking or cycling is not an option, and where access to public transport is limited or doesn’t fit their work pattern, personal powered transport is the only choice. In that scenario, the motorcycle wins hands down in respect to the pollution dose you receive.

It doesn’t end there though. Studies have shown that motorcycling can burn as many calories

as light exercise. Last year I had a motorcycling holiday in the USA. Being of robust construction I thought I should lose a bit of weight before I went, given the stories about portion sizes and unhealthy food options stateside. I came back lighter than when I set off despite the breakfasts and BIG evening meals. And beers, we did have a few beers. It would appear 8 hours a day out and about on a motorcycle burns a few calories. I was doing 8 hours of light exercise without having to think about it.

But we can get even more from motorcycling (or scootering). When I was young my bike was my transport, but it became my passion. I got a job that needed a car, my riding stopped, but I soon came back to two wheels; I couldn’t be without a bike. It’s my relaxation, my time to myself, and it’s also a huge part of my social life. Even tinkering in the shed and cleaning my bike is a diversion from the stresses and strains of everyday life and we all know the gratification from filtering past queues of stationary cars. A ride to work on a bike can be so much less frustrating than other forms of travel.

The Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) promotes a modal shift from cars to bikes. It is proven to reduce pollution and we can clearly demonstrate that an individual’s exposure to pollution on a motorcycle is reduced compared to travel in cars and even active travel. Health issues are the main reason for emission zones in cities (unless it’s all about the money), so why are councils and Government not promoting a shift from cars to bikes? It’s an easy win in respect to pollution and health. Some areas are recognising this, but it remains an ongoing campaign for MAG. You can help MAG in these endeavours by joining 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 cannot claim that motorcycles will make everyone fit and live longer but they clearly has a role to play and will benefit many people, so my recommendation for health and wellbeing is get on two wheels. It should be available on the National Health.

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

31

POSTPONED POSTPONED

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 32

April-June 2020 • South East Biker Magazine

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

33

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

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

34

April-June 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.