Volume 2, Issue 1 by Traction eRag Offroad & Dualsport Magazine

paris - dacre prepare for pain!

n o i t c a Tr ders by i R or f g Ra

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Riders

mojo oto h p moto k

nar a l e d i r s al ntage tri

KTM kev

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spot JUNE 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ FREE!

VOLUNTEER POWERED!

IN THIS ISSUE: STOCK

Off-Road Riding e-Rag for Riders by Riders

caught on film the view from here dirt from the prez upcoming events over the bars Still kickin’ on the soapbox exhaust note

BLING

Moto photo review work n’ ride Get skills Lanark trials Paris Dacre

2 3 4 5 12 13 18 20

The Missing Editor Kaveri Gupta

8 9 10 14 16

Contributors Larry Murray Mike Hillier KTMKevin Christian Lacasse Trevor Blysma Brian Flannigan Glen Cooper David Makin Mike O’Reilly

cover photo: Ripping it up at Woody’s 4 Hour last year. Nipping at the heels of Tyler Medaglia after the first lap. This kid was impressive!

photo by: Kaveri gupta

Rider Sacrificed Before Event Organizers Pray for Better Weather

Caught on Film

During the riders meeting at a recent PQ event this unknown rider was caught in an unlikely pose. With luck event organizers won’t go to this level to insure a favorable day to ride - but you never know.

photo: Christian Lacasse

If you have pictures of your riding buddies in compromising positions, send them over and we will gladly embarrass them:

offroad.newsletter@gmail.com

Traction

This sacrifice worked, the weather held until we were enjoying a cold beverage at the truck. The skies opened up and it poured rain. Maybe there is something to be said about human sacrifice?

Editor Dallas Shannon

Layout The Stig

Photographers Kaveri Gupta Christian Lacasse Carolin Lueders Mike Hillier The Stig We are currently looking for story ideas, contributing writers & photographers. If you would like to have fun and participate in a off-road motorcycle rag just for the hell of it, please drop us a line. You don’t need to be a good writer to participate, just enthusiasm and a love of riding off-road. Reviews, interviews, mechanical questions & solutions, design, photography, ride reports and event coverage are just SOME of the things we are interested in. Anything outside these topics or a weird hybrid of these things is welcome. We have NO rules and can do and say whatever we want! How’s that for freedom of expression!

To contact anybody about anything please email us at: offroad.newsletter@gmail.com If you would like to receive the newsletter by email please contact: offroad.newsletter@gmail.com Traction eRagazine Disclamer: We in no way intend this to be a commercial publication. Views expressed here are our own and should be taken for what they are - valueless. A friend always says “Don’t let the truth get in the way of a good story” and we do our best to honor that statement. If you are looking to challenge what you read here - don’t bother, just assume you are right and we are wrong. This rag exists because we LOVE riding motorcycles off-road and we love publishing. Everything is done by volunteers and no money is generated. If you are unhappy with that and feel the need to send us money - donations are accepted, PAYPAL preferred! If you think your product or service should appear in this rag, please let us know and we’ll see what we can do.

Written permission must be requested to reproduce, or reprint all or portions of the content contained herein.

The view from here By Dallas shannon

I can’t believe it’s only June. The riding season so far has been great. Great weather, great riding opportunities and plenty of people taking advantage of them. I’ve been riding 6 times already! There has been plenty of early season interest in the eRAG and a lot of people chipping in to help with content. It seems that whenever we ride there is something that happens that is worth publishing.

are volunteering their time to cut trail. In the last few years it has been a mystery on how to get people to pitch in but it looks like Calabogie Boogie Trail Boss Trevor Blysma has figured it out. It is called Work n’ Ride. Trevor has submitted some information and I think he is on to something, the last event was a resounding success and people described it as fun. Wow.

This issue has some interesting stuff. Glen Cooper, a long- Enjoy June! time BMA member, has decided to come on-board with a regular monthly column. I had heard he was a “closet” writer and I have been hoping he would submit some content. Now it’s official: Glen Cooper is out of the closet. His first column, aptly named Still Kickin’, can be found in this issue. It is about personal observations on the merits of a having a threesome. Another newcomer, Bryan Flannigan, has decided to enlighten us with riding technique and etiquette articles. I did not know this until recently but it turns out that Bryan has an alter ego known as “Flanny” who happens to be ADVfamous. He is well known on that site (advrider.com) for video rebuilds of his bikes (KTM 640s & 950s). Word around the campfire is that he is very precise with his work and does some great videos. His column in this issue is called “Over the Bars” so take his comments for what they are worth. Either he has learned from experience or his suggestions will send YOU “over the bars”. Please try them and then email us with the results. I have been been mentally pre-occupied with the ParisDacre Rally. It has been on my mind and this month, as promised, I wrote a short bit about preparing for this event. Even better, in conjunction with my PD teammates, we have decided to video log our pre-event preparation. A daily video blog about what the hell we are doing (or not doing) to prepare for this event. I have zero video experience so if you are not signed up for the Paris-Dacre but looking for a painful experience, please check out my videos. Flanny has instructed us to talk about ourselves and our bikes. He said not to worry as the video log would “take on a life of it’s own”. For better or for worse, you’ll get to see if that actually happens. In regards to racing, anonymous Soapbox writer KTMKevin has an opinion (which he often does) that demands to be heard. I have read it, I have liked it and I am considering it. You should too. An interesting thing is happening inside of the BMA. People

photo by: The Stig

dirt from the prez By bma president mike hillier

I did my first race a few weekends ago, the Mini-Pine Enduro, which received a record number of riders (almost 300). Before the start of the race, I asked Dave Wrack and Larry Murray how faster riders pass. Larry kindly let Dave explain the technique - hollering, engine revving, “just do it”, etc. Then Larry leaned back in his chair and said, “Mike, isn’t what you mean, “How do I pass slower riders?” Due to what I’ll call a “Larry-induced-timing-mishap”, he and I were able to get on the trail sooner than our minute should have allowed. By following him, I witnessed what passing was all about: AGRESSION: Rider in sights, target locked, fire at will. SURPRISE: The thundering Niagara of a completely unexpected motorcycle horn in the bush, <the victim bobbles>, THEN the pass...THEN...(wait for it)...“THANK YOU!” Fast forward through the first and second timed sections, a gas break, and then the third section. By this time my dehydration meter has bent the needle. At the fourth and final timed section, my clutch hand felt like it had been dead for years. I had not seen Larry since he waited for me at the last check. I figured it was smarter to line up beside a guy on a Husqvarna...the guy who starts with the engine hitting the rev limiter, head over the fender, and elbows pointing at the sky. “You first”, I said as threateningly as I could (remember the dehydration part). Well, the minute hit, and I lit out after that SOB like a fox after a rabbit. If there were 2 straights and one turn I would have snatched a pea from the master like no other. But, alas, there were more damned turns than I ever remember making. I passed some random guy, then he passed me, then I was back in front. It

was a first gear battle of fatigue. I bobbled and attempted to wave him on but he gasps, “No you go, I have no rear brakes.” Great, just what I needed to make me feel better. I passed, seizing the only opportunity to do so in 2 or 3 minutes. I roared ahead, almost hitting second gear and as I did I thought to myself “You poor bastard, if you were running a KTM I’d give you my brakes, I haven’t used them for 10K.” In every race there are “thank yous” and considerations for everyone - those who passed me, and those I passed. In a sense, we were all on the same team - having fun, racing and riding, almost 300 of us, all at once. On another note, I sometimes sit back and wonder, “Where is everyone on our team?” The BMA has 220 members, but only 10% regularly volunteer to help with club events. I get pretty tired, let alone the guys who have lead this club for decades. Maybe this horn is not loud enough? I sincerely invite the remaining 90% to tell us how we can get them this team. We have a race to win!

for better gripping performance Must have sharpening tool for every off road rider. 423-774-0028 • knobbyknife.com • knobbyknife@yahoo.com

Mike

Upcoming Events 2 Hour Hare Scramble, Woody’s, Perth • June 13th

Woody’s Cycle club hare scramble and annual spring pilgrimage into the forest. This year’s event is part of the Off-Road Ontario cross-country provincial championship, http://offroadontario.ca. Registration starts at 9am and practice is untill 11:15 am. Racing starts at noon. For info call Carolin or Woody 613 267 6861 or director-at-large@bytown-motorcycle-assoc.ca

Larose Forest Ride Day, Limoges • June 26th

Check out the status of the BMA’s latest trail network in Eastern Ontario. For information contact Marlene Bleau. (613) 678 1676 mbleau@hotmail.com

Limerick Forest Kid’s Ride • July 11th

Limerick Forest Family Ride near Roebuck, ON. For kids of all ages, non-competitive, and focused on fun. Trails are always well marked for different riding levels. Bikes must be quiet, plated and legal. Sign in 9-10, start time 10:30. See flyer at this website or contact Mike Hillier (613) 258 1164. president@bytown-motorcycle-assoc.ca

ODSC & MOTOPARK DUAL SPORT EVENT

Entry Fee - $30/bike The D/S route will run both days and is roughly about 400kms. Should individuals decide to bail and head back to the Motopark, the north/south roads of #6 and #10 in Grey merge at Chatsworth (just north of the park). It is simple to plan a “bail” when you have had enough. Reserved camping spaces are available for those wishing to enjoy both days and rerun or finish the route. The secondary roads and road allowances are great fun. A link stretches from Motopark to Talisman Ski Resort, south of Markdale. The final section winds down the escarpment, overlooking the resort and one could imagine they are in New England. Carl Bastedo has worked with Talisman Resort and the lunch for both the road cruise and D/S may be enjoyed there.

ALGONQUIN 2-DAY TRAIL RIDE

Madawaska, Ontario Part of the Ontario Trail Ride Series START: ALL STAR RESORT 15 minutes east of Algonquin Park at the village of Madawaska on Major Lake Road. ENTRY FEE: $90 (free dinner if preregistered by June 4) SIGN IN: Friday 5pm - 9pm / Saturday 8am RIDERS MEETING: Saturday & Sunday 9am RIDE DURATION: Appx. 150km Saturday Appx. 100km Sunday RIDE LEVEL: Recreational to Expert Bikes must be plated and insured. CMA membership is not required. Gas available at gas station on Saturday and gas truck on Sunday.

bma 2010 club events (See forum and website bulletins for directions and additional information as events approach. Don’t call us the morning of the event….we’re already riding!)

2 Hour Hare Scramble, Woody’s, Perth • June 13th

Woody’s Cycle club hare scramble and annual spring pilgrimage into the forest. This year’s event is part of the Off-Road Ontario cross-country provincial championship, http://offroadontario.ca. Registration starts at 9am and practice is untill 11:15 am. Racing starts at noon .For info call Carolin or Woody 613 267 6861 or director-at-large@bytown-motorcycle-assoc.ca

Larose Forest Ride Day, Limoges • June 26th

Check out the status of BMA’ latest trail network in Eastern Ontario. For information contact Marlene Bleau. (613) 678 1676 mbleau@hotmail.com

Limerick Forest Kid’s Ride • July 11th

BMA Family Fun Day • August 15th BMA Family Fun day. Details to be announced.

Calabogie Boogie Trail Ride, • September 11-12th

This is our club’s flagship event of the year, with two days of prime off road riding and arrowed routes to suit everyone from newbie to pro. Trailheads are marked for mileage and difficulty. Dualsport route offered as well. One and two-day packages, pre-registration is advisable. See flyer at this website and watch for updates and info. Contact: Trevor Bylsma 613-271-6217 or vice-president@bytown-motorcycle-assoc.ca

CVMG Trials, Lanark, Ont. • September 26th

Near Watson’s Corners, this is the fall round of the local CVMG series for vintage and other observed trials enthusiasts. Contact Doug Hunter (613) 826-3748 or website@bytown-motorcycle-assoc.ca

Jim Kolman’s Chilli Run, Navan, Ont. • October 3rd

This is a hare scramble event for riders of all ages and skill levels, from mini’s to expert riders, women and vets. The track includes open grass, single-track trails, MX and endurocross sections designed to be entertaining and easy to navigate. This is a perfect opportunity for new racers to try your first scramble. Also a mini track for the kids to race on in the morning schedule. Try not to miss the live band and bonfire Saturday night before the race! There is, of course, free camping. For more info contact Jim Kolman at Wheelsport (613) 841-9400 or jimkolman@hotmail.com

BMA Fall Trail Ride • October 17th Details to be announced.

BMA 4-hour harescramble, Woody’s • October 23rd

The Colin Snider Memorial 4-hour harescramble is an annual favourite, a team event set on a course meant to be fun but reasonably challenging. The event is a fundraiser for local charities and an excellent event for a family group to have a really fun day, socialize, kick some tires and get some racing experience to boot. No bikes smaller than 65cc. Call for info: Carolin or Woody 613 267 6861. director-at-large@bytown-motorcycle-assoc.ca

BMA SMUGMUG PHOTO MAGIC check it out!

www.bytownmotorcycle.smugmug.com

Hello Readers, As many of you know, a BMA pictures website has appeared online. Since its launch it has proven to be a great success. You will find hundreds of riding pictures that were taken during BMA events or other organized rides between members. We have received some great shots by riders who participated in these rides. We’ve just uploaded some 2010 photos! Please go there and enjoy, it’s free! You’ll find pictures of all sizes that are fast to download. If you want to save them on your computer or print them at your local photo developer, please do. If you need support, write us. Here is what we would like:

Bring a camera on your rides, shoot it and share it! To see the pictures go to: www.bytownmotorcycle.smugmug.com If you would like to see your pictures appear on the website, please send them to: clac911@gmail.com and offroad.newsletter@gmail.com Happy Spring Riding! Chris photo by: kaveri gupta

WOODY’S CYCLES KTM & HUSABERG Ontario’s Oldest and Most Experienced KTM Dealer

Parts: We stock them all, call us for same-day shipping. Service: From engine to suspension or just race tuning, we’ve had your service needs covered since 1978. Accessories: A huge stock of tires, riding gear, hard parts, boots, handle bars, tubes, you name it, it’s at Woody’s. We keep it in stock, and keep you running! Motorcycles: You can relax and enjoy buying your next

KTM or Husaberg from us. We take the time to sell you the right bike, and more time to show you the service aspect, and small details, as nobody else will. No 10 minute sales process here, we take as long as you need. Our customers and bikes are very special to us. Customer Riding Area: We’ve developed a huge and challenging trail riding area for our friend and customers, now open for the season. Call for details.

See all our bikes on the Auto Trader website or at www.woodys-cycles.com Woody’s Race Watch: June 13th • 2 Hour Scramble (www.offroadontario.ca or call for info) October 24th • Colin Snider Memorial 4 hour Team Challenge

moto photo review

By Christian lacasse

ANTHONY KERR

What better way to tell a motorcycle story than to bring back good photographs? Many riders try but once back home realize, “This picture doesn’t do this place justice - you should have seen it, it was amazing”.

All you need is practice and the determination to take better pictures. Personally, if there is anything that captures my attention, it would be pictures from your last ride. YOUR adventure, YOUR trip, YOUR crash, the incredible things YOU saw during any given ride. I would be so curious that I would watch the entire set if you let me. We often hear that an image is worth a thousand words - this is very true, especially when the topic is motorcycles. Two weeks ago I had the chance to read a PDF e-book written by Anthony Kerr called “MOTOJOURNALISM Book One - The Foundation”. This 41 page jewel gives many examples of “expert” tricks to bring better photographs back from your motorcycling adventures, and the best part is that the only thing you will need is your current camera. Using seven concepts, Anthony provides practical knowledge that even a NOOB photographer can use to improve their composition immediately. Anthony even provides a summarized version of this “magic” list that you can print and place inside the map pouch of your tank bag. Anthony is a professional photographer who loves road trips. On his last trip he rode 30,000 kilometers on a KLR650 from Canada to Panama. He also shot 10,000 pictures during his journey. He took photographs of people, places, landscapes, bikes, and close-ups. They are truly awesome and will provide him (and others) with a lifetime of memories. He is just as passionate about photography as he is about riding his bike to infinity and beyond. This is why he’s created a series of e-books that are full of excellent pictures and tips for wannabe photographers. The first e-book is called “The Foundation” and the $10 you will spend to buy it online will be the best money you put into your camera. Go to www.motojournalism.com to see his blog and buy the e-book! Follow Anthony’s (Antontrax) adventures at: www.tinyurl.com/yzq6nuh Guapa,

dor

El Salva

work n' ride In the last few weeks the BMA has explored and tested a Work n’ Ride trail maintenance program. After the first weekend of testing it seems like a good way to attract volunteers.

CanaDIan DISTRIBUTOR FOR: • Enduro Engineering

Calabogie Boogie Trail Boss Trevor Blysma has this to say:

• E-Line accessories

“We commit to two hours of ‘working’ on trail maintenance and then go ‘riding’ for at least three hours. The main goal of the Work ‘n’ Ride is to have a great trail ride and to maintain some trails at set points along the way. At the start of the day we collect attendee’s names to report volunteer hours to the BMA/ OFTR. We then break up into smaller groups based on each rider’s desired pace and terrain. All skill levels are welcome and will be accommodated”.

• FaSST Company

There are two other goals of the Work ‘n’ Rides:

•Fredette Racing Products

One is to get riders out and meeting other members of similar riding preferences. Working along side someone is a great way to get to know them a little better, something that isn’t possible when riding down a trail at speed.

• Flatland Racing

The other side goal is to educate attendees on trail names and how the trails interconnect. We stop at intersections and point out landmarks to explain where we are and how it relates to other trails in the area.

• Stealthy Offroad

The Work ‘n’ Ride is really about enjoying the awesome trails we have in Eastern Ontario and spending a little time keeping them in good condition.” So far the first Work n’ Ride was a huge success. This is an excellent way to meet riders of your skill level, get a guided tour of Calabogie area and help out the club. Keep your eyes on the BMA Forum for more updates on the next Work n’ Ride project which will most likely take place in early June but before the 12/13th.

• GPR Stabilizer • Grunge Brush • Brap Offroad

• K&P Stainless Oil Filters •Sicass Racing • SFB Racing • Terry Cable • JD Jetting • Power Blades • Park Tools • G2 Ergonomics • accu-Mix Products • Mud Suds • Promoto Billet • Trail Tech • BRP

Dealer inquiries call: Allan Lachapelle 450-292-3170 www.lrpdistributing.com 11 Baker Pond Road Bolton Centre, QC

CORDUROY ENDURO Lachapelle Riding School When: Saturday, June 19th - Trail Riders and Beginners Sunday, June 20th - Advanced Riders and Racers Where: KTM Acres - Woody’s Cycles near Perth Lachapelle’s Schools are suitable for all levels or riders from beginners to expert. • Learn the secrets of trail mastery and machine set up from this multi-time Canadian Champion in a full day of practical instruction. • Learn set up tips, maintenance procedures, and physical conditioning regiments. Learn about setting your SAG and suspension setup. Makes a world of difference to your riding. • Learn proper use of your motorcycles controls, from clutch feathering, throttle control, to peg weighting and braking. • Learn how to do quick and efficient tire changes, proper air filter service procedures. $100 for OFTR members / $120 for non-OFTR members. Call for more info, registration, and directions. pre-registration a must. 613-267-6861

GOT A HELLUVA STORY? WHY NOT SHARE?

Photos, product reviews, ride reports, are all welcome. Gwammer, spwelling and punatuation are all optional (we have a GREAT copy editor)!

EMAIL IT!

offroad.newsletter@gmail.com

photo by: Carolin Lueders

BMA Code Of Conduct

1. Do not trespass on private property 2. Ride on existing trails 3. Respect nature 4. Respect and be courteous to other people who also have the right to be on the trails 5. Remember that few other vehicles are as maneuverable as bikes, so give the others lots of room 6. Hunt camp owners do a lot of trail grooming respect their efforts 7. Stop when you see a horse 8. Do not ride during hunting season 9. Comply with all legislation, bylaws and insurance requirements 10. Always wear a helmet and other safety gear (but take off your helmet if you talk to someone) 11. Do not litter 12. Leave the place better than you found it 13. Keep your bike QUIET. More sound = less ground! photo by: kaveri gupta

dirt bike humour

First Aid? A guy was tearing down the trail on his dirt bike but the zipper broke on his jacket, so it was letting an annoying draft in. Sitting on his dirt bike, wondering what to do, he finally decided to put the jacket on backwards, so the broken zipper was at the back. He continued to ride his dirt bike at incredible speeds, but lost control. A nearby farmer heard the crash in the bush, assessed the situation, then called 911 on his cell phone! “I found a dirt bike rider on the trail, next to the bike he crashed!” he told the operator. The emergency operator asked the farmer “Is he showing any signs of life?” “Well,” the farmer explained, “he WAS... until I turned his head around the right way!”

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over the bars

By Bryan (Flanny) Flannigan

No Wonder I Can’t Ride this Stuff! It is amazing to me how we take our riding technique for granted. Whether it is a well-timed dab on the rear brake, a light feathering of the clutch, or a slight shift of body weight, our collection of tiny moves makes the difference between clearing a challenging section or getting hung-up. They say that “the Devil hides in the details” and that is certainly true of successful off-road riding technique. I will never forget the time that a close friend and I took a trip to Texas to ride in the Big Bend National Park. I have been riding off-road since I was just a wee lad, but my good friend was mostly a street rider (he had little experience riding in dirt, let alone in sand, which strangely enough, there seems to be a lot of in the desert.) During our rides, we would cruise together slowly for a while, but then invariably I would get caught up in the moment and find myself hauling ass through the desert, leaving my friend far behind. Of course, I would stop and wait. And when my friend would finally arrive, he would be flustered and exasperated: “I just can’t ride in this sand. I keep crashing in the turns. Even in straight lines, the bike is just weaving all over the place! This is impossible!” I would suggest a few things: “Are you steering with your back-end? You really need to let your back-end break loose, and let that bring the bike around”. He would nod, we would keep going, and then he would eventually fall way behind again. At each stop, I would try in vain to impart some of the wisdom I had learned over the years. “Are you standing on the pegs? In sand, you need to keep your toes up, and your weight back so that your front-end doesn’t dive.” Or, “you really need to keep leading throttle in the sand. If you chop the gas, your front end will dig in and give you trouble”. This cycle happened over and over again (as cycles tend to do). At 33 dry degrees, after having to pick-up his heavy bike from the irritating sand a million times, it was all becoming too much for my exhausted friend. “Well it’s no damn wonder I can’t ride down here!”, he finally exclaimed in frustration. “Everything you’re telling me to do is the exact opposite of what I know! You’re telling me to steer with the back and not the front, you’re telling me to stand and not sit, and you’re telling me to keep the gas open instead of using my brakes!” He was just shaking his head in disbelief. True enough, I thought, riding in the sand really does require a different technique. No wonder he was frustrated. That moment has really stuck with me over the years. In this regular column, I hope to share with you some of the accumulated kernels of knowledge that I have managed to pick up on riding technique and bike set-up for off-road riding. If the Devil is truly hiding in the details, then let the hide and seek begin. photo by: The Stig

STILL KICKIN '

By Glen (COOP) Cooper

The most important thing you should bring is a third rider. You should never ride with less than 3 riders when riding in remote area. If someone gets injured and there are only 2 of you, then you would have to make a serious decision. Do you go for help and possibly leave your friend to die alone or do you stay with him and watch him die? I know this is a serious scenario but it can happen. Cell phones don’t always work in remote areas. If you do have 3 or more people with you, the person with the most first aid training should stay and the person who goes for help should take a way point reading before they leave so they can find their way back with help. If you have ever gone out on foot to scout a trail you know how hard it some times to just find where you left your bike. Also, make sure the rider going for So what didn’t you bring? Did you bring some toilet paper, just help has enough fuel to make it back. I have been in a few in case the Timmy’s double double brings on a CIS (Coffee situations where we had to get help for an injured rider and induced S#!T)? Getting to watch Buddy having to wipe his it does take a while to get help and return when you are in arse with his socks = priceless! How about a cell phone, first a remote area. That said, you may have a hidden agenda aid kit, duct tape, five minute epoxy? A solar blanket, a foil and have been eyeing up Buddy’s new bike and may want item that is about the size of a deck of cards when folded, to leave him there alone. In that case, make sure your riding weights about as much as a pack of gum but can be used to buddy’s bike is nicer than yours, he might be thinking the cover an injured person and keep them warm? How about same thing. a trail map of the area? Did you let people know where you would be riding and what time to expect you home? Ride Safe, Ride Smart! So, you are thinking of going riding this weekend. You called a few of your riding friends, but on ride day only one guy is available. Both of you happen to live in a cave and forgot that it was Mothers Day or Thanksgiving (or some other important holiday for normal people) and everyone else in the world has a life except you and Buddy. Of course, you decide to go anyway. You meet, do a Timmy’s drive thru and head north towards Calabogie. You packed all the necessary stuff: bikes, riding gear, fluids, tire pump, a spare 21” tube (real riders know why), some munchies, GPS, your favorite assortment of tools, etc. You also brought a rope in case you have to tow Buddy out of the bush because that will never happen to you.

This is a long way to get to the point of this article.

Coop out. photo by: DALLAS SHANNON

s a charm

Checks & Balance

lanark spring trial summary

RESULTS Shaun Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Reilly Doug Hunter Reid Masson Mike Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Reilly Tony Funnekotter JP Laroque Eric Pritchard Steve Tucker J Bouchard Jacques Gagne

49 50 54 56 57 60 61 66 68 69

1972 Honda TL125 1956 Ariel HT 1986 Honda TLR 200 1976 Montesa 1997 Montesa 1981 Bultaco 1973 Yamaha 175 1964 BSA 1976 Honda 1974 Honda

This event was for fun, and there was a wide variety of machinery and choice of lines. Wisely, a few riders did not attempt Sections 9 and 10, which became progressively more difficult (and they were never easy, even the C line) as the event progressed. Â When we set the event up, we never considered the possibility of snow the night before the trial. There were fifteen riders in total, a very good turnout considering the rotten weather that preceded the event. I hope many of you will be able to join the fun at the 2010 Ormstown Vintage Off Road Festival August 13-15. For more info visit: www.rocler.qc.ca/ariane/

paris dacre

Man’s search for meaning By: Dallas shannon

photo by: The Stig

The Paris Dacre Rally (PD) is on the June 26th and I have got PD on the brain. In the last few weeks, I have been thinking about the event a lot more than I anticipated. Fifteen-to-twenty hours on an off-road bike with no breaks is a big deal for me because I have never done anything like this before (never even been in a race before) so there are a lot of “what ifs” running through my head. As a first time PDer and first time racer, I am doing my best to be mentally, physically and mechanically prepared. Mentally, it will be a long day but the truth is, I have always loved long road trips. I think this fits into that category: a very long difficult road trip. As anybody who has been on a long off-road ride knows, your energy levels and mental well-being ebb and flow with the conditions (how often you have to pick your bike up), your fitness level, and your on-bike nutrition and hydration. On the trail, it is amazing how much better you feel after a 10 minute snack and drink break. For all the PD riders, I suspect they will mentally have both good times and bad times during the PD. As a team, we will have to recognize and accommodate the rider that feels the worst at any given time of the rally. We have to acknowledge that we will all feel mentally low at some point during the ride but if we make allowances for this and adjust we can limit the mental mistakes that will affect our teams outcome. If we ignore this variable, I think it will only be a matter of time before the weakest rider (at

any given time) makes a mistake that will ultimately affect our teams ability to finish. Being aware of this, accepting it and adjusting for our teammates varying mental states will be a key factor in finishing the race. In general, I don’t know how I will deal with the highs and lows but if I catch myself complaining into my helmet I will quickly remind myself there are much more difficult situations I could be in. Ever read Man’s Search for Meaning (by Victor Frankl)? ‘Nuff said. Physically, I think it will be painful. There is no way to avoid this. The question is going to be, how painful? Even if a rider shows up to the event in good shape with lots of riding under his/her belt, this will still be a difficult event to complete. For those who have not rode their bikes regularly in the last 8 weeks, this will be a very uncomfortable and painful ride. As everyone knows there is something called “bike shape”. You can run, lift weights and do yoga but until you get some bike mileage under your belt, you still get tired and sore on your bike. All the cross training does is allow you to get in better “bike shape” faster. The main reason you want to limit your physical pain is because when you are uncomfortable (re: pain) you fatigue faster. As you fatigue you make mistakes. To complete this event you want to limit your mistakes. A lot can happen when making mistakes at speed. Crashes can lead to mechanical or physical damage both would drastically limit your teams ability to finish. Remember, teams are made up of 3-5 riders and a mistake by one team member will echo through the entire team. I have been physically active doing many different things: cutting and piling wood (though I haven’t got around to that yet...), mowing my (large) lawn with a hand mower and I have been riding my bike as much as possible. If there is a chance to do something physical, I have been taking it. I am not saying I am going to be in world class shape, but I think I will be ok.

“This will be a very uncomfortable and painful ride” Mechanically, I cannot say that I am very precise. This is an admitted weak point. I am learning more with each mechanical disaster I encounter but “confident” is not a word I’m ready to use . My bike (06 450 EXC) has been very reliable and every problem I have run into was the direct result of my inability to spot a worn part and deal with it BEFORE the ride. My eye for worn parts has improved but there are still things that I have not had to deal with and therefore sit in the “unsolved mysteries” file. Until this spring, valve adjustment came as easy as

quadratic equations. To combat my “problem”, all of my consumable parts will be replaced and I will have one of my mechanically inclined friends do a once over before race weekend. Like anything, repetition will improve my mechanical ability so I consider it my duty to put my mileage on the bike - all in the name of improving my mechanical skill. The next 4 weeks will be dedicated to personally improving all three of these categories for the running of the PD on June 26th. The Paris Dacre Rally team that I have been invited to ride with, Team FTV, is posting 30 day countdown video logs of what we are individually up to in regards to preparing for the PD ride. I have no experience with video but will do my best. I have no doubt that the video logs from my team will be entertaining. Please go here to view our video logs:

www.FlannyMedia.Blogspot.com

Paris Dacre Countdown Videos The Paris Dacre Rally team that I have invited to ride with, Team FTV, is posting 30 day countdown videos of what we’re up to in regards to preparing for the PD ride. I personally have no experience with video but will do my best, no doubt the video logs from my team will be entertaining. Team FTV will be posting video blogs from 30 days before and counting down to the “Big Event” on Friday, June 25th. Everyday starting Wednesday, May 26th, FlannyMedia will be posting the team video blogs leading up to the Paris-to-Dacre at FlannyMedia.Blogspot.com. Follow-along as we try to get our act together in time for the event...Should be fun! -Flanny

already lost photo by: The Stig

by ktmkevin

Up On My Soapbox I assume that since you are reading this fine publication, you have a dirt bike in the garage and you love to ride. All week you look forward to getting out there with your pals and demonstrating your meager skills and feeble fitness. You dream about gnawing on new terrain while not crashing up a substantial parts bill. You want to push your lowly limits without ending up on one of those painful death rides. Well, my slightly rotund friend, have I got a deal for you! How would you like to ride, for a very nominal fee, a well-arrowed piece of real estate that you probably have never laid eyes on before? You can go out and either hammer with your buddies or ride at your own pace and enjoy the scenery. And the best part is that you are never more that about 5 kilometers from the parking area. Sounds good, right? Want to know how to get in on this deal? Well, it’s very simple enter a race. Now that the howling has subsided, stick with me for a moment instead of scanning the rest of this mag for scantily clad members of the opposite sex; you should know by now that this is a family publication.

not working right? Come in to make some adjustments and take a well-deserved break. Make some sort of goal that you want to achieve on race day. For me, my goal is to make it to the checkered flag regardless of my placing (especially when “Iron Man-ing” the four-hour). I can sense all the excuses you are concocting in your beleaguered brain: too old/too slow/too out of shape/bike not ready/lawn needs mowing/ need to do fingernails and hair/spouse said “no way” etc. Well, my chubby chum, this is all irrelevant. You are missing out on some of the best riding available simply because you think your not a “racer”. Get over it and give it a try! And when you do, stick around for the beer and bench racing afterwards. Some of the stories get taller than Dallas. You’re welcome.

It drives me crazy that such a low percentage of club members take advantage of the riding available both locally and in the rest of the province because you have arbitrarily decided that you are not a “racer” without ever giving it a chance. Get this through your alcohol-laden cerebellum: you can do this. You don’t have to be fast, skilled or even fit (we all know that you aren’t). The key here is proper mindset. The reality is that whatever class you enter, there will be about half a dozen riders vying for the class win. You are not one of them. So erase that whole “winning” mindset as quickly as whatever your spouse said to you as you walked out the door yesterday. Now you can just go out and ride at whatever pace suits you on that particular day and enjoy the trails and the company. Listen up noodle noggin, there isn’t anything wrong with treating a race as another trail riding adventure. I do it all the time. I just ride around at a pace that I figure I can sustain for two hours or four hours. I make sure that I pull off when I hear the fast people approaching from behind (you will hear them) so as not to affect the results for those young pups pushing for a class win. If I can do it, you can do it. Many times I have heard comments about how friendly and low-key BMA club races are. These are perfect opportunities for you to give it a go. There really aren’t many rules. You do not have to ride the whole race. Tired? Come in for a drink and a rest. Suspension

KTM Kevin finally has his head screwed on right

LANARK TRIALS 2010 MAKIN FARM This photo was taken on May 9th at the Watson's Corners trials event. Three generations of O'Reilly's L. to R.: Jeff Ackert (Jeffakertalope), Shaun, Matt, Paul (83 on April 1st) and Mike.

exhaust note by Larry Murray

Standing Up or Sitting Down! (while trail riding and racing off-road)

Over my many years of riding, there has been a lot of talk about the best riding position: standing up or sitting down. For the record, I can tell you that I have been passed many times by riders standing up and many times by riders sitting down. I can also tell you that each time that someone passes me I watch and try to learn from them. There is no clear answer to this question, however I think most of the top riders will tell you to STAND UP, and to STAY STANDING UP for the whole ride. Standing up gives you many advantages over sitting down and there are two basic standing positions we need to talk about. But first, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talk about how to set up our bikes. Place your bike on a bike stand that will permit you to mount the bike without falling over. Standing on the pegs with

by LARRY murray

100% of your weight balanced on both feet, now place both hands on the grips. They should be in a neutral position. Adjust your bars forward and back until you find the perfect location for you, this position will most likely be higher or more forward than the stock set-up. Take the time to do this and you will be glad you did. Depending on your height, you may need to add aftermarket bar risers which typically move the bars up and forward. First Standing Position Standing on the foot pegs with almost 90% of your weigh on the pegs, hands on the hand grips with little or no weight on the bars, elbows bent and out slightly, your head up and just about the center of the bars, your knees should be bent with light pressure on the tank, this is a good stance to take while riding an oval track we use for teaching. The oval track is 50 meters by 30 meters with a slight grade (slope) on the straights. Ride around the track while trying to keep all your weight on the pegs with little or no positive/negative pressure on the bars. Speed up and slow down while adjusting your body position forward and back. Try to keep all your weight on the pegs. As you ride around the corners try to keep your hand to shoulder distance the same on the right and left side. Your shoulders should always be parallel to the bars of the bike and this is done by moving your bottom to the left and to the right. Remember to keep you weight on the pegs and your head up while looking as far up the trail as you can. If you try this you will be amazed how natural it feels. After a bit of time you will be amazed on how stable you are. Relax and enjoy this position and you should start to become very comfortable. By doing this you pick up about 6â&#x20AC;?/150mm+/travel to your suspension making for a smoother more controlled ride while using less energy. Second Standing Position This position is like the first but is much more aggressive. This is a great way to race in the woods, on cross-country tracks and rough fast trails. Your arms and knees should be bent making your head lower. At the same time this will lower your center of gravity and most likely push some of your weight back when riding fast. You should still try to keep your weight on the pegs and not be pulling or pushing on the bars. Try to keep your toes up, your head up and looking forward not down. In this position your shoulders will be lower and your elbows out and up more then in the first position. This riding position will naturally make you ride more aggressively. As you enter into a corner try to move some weight forward, you will be traveling faster so more weight will be needed on the front

photo by: kaveri gupta

wheel to keep it from washing out. This is a bit of a balancing act and I personally tend to overload the front wheel to try and find that sweet spot. Play with your body position and find out what works for you but try to keep your shoulders parallel to the bars of the bike and move your lower body as needed. One of the nice things about riding standing up is that you have lots of opportunity to transfer weight for jumping, turning, braking and accelerating. I have always noticed that when I stand up, I shift up a gear and ride in the powerband of my bike. This makes me and my bike ready for the unknowns ahead. I am certain an aggressive riding position will make you a faster, stronger rider. Unlike the first standing position there is nothing relaxing about this position. Your body and mind will be ready for anything the trail or track will come up with. You may want to spend some time at the gym if you plan to ride like this for hours as it is physically demanding. I will save my comments on sitting down for next month. I will be four weeks older next month and that will give me four more excuses why my new position will be sitting down! Just for Fun Larry Murray