The Motorcycle Times - August 2012 by The Motorcycle Times

ROAD TEST

The OPEN ROAD

PROFILE

Triumph Street Triple R takes centre stage on our RoadTest

This issue we continue to discover Ontario by travelling east to Kingston and the Ottawa Valley

There is more to riding well than you think. Discover what it’s like to learn from a real pro.

See page 10 for details

See page 14 for more

See page 20 for more

MOTORCYCLES POWER SAVINGS!

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Brain Storms...................................................................................4 Skid Marks ......................................................................................5 Motorcycle News ....................................................................6 Two Cents........................................................................................8 Community.................................................................................10 Shop Talk........................................................................................12 Open Road Diaries - Ontario Roads ................... 14 Finish Lines ............................................................................... 16 Training Wheels ......................................................................18 Profile ............................................................................................. 20 Riders Marketplace ........................................................... 21 Events ........................................................................................... 22 Safety Scene ............................................................................ 22

YouTube Speeder Turned Himself In

It’s a Victory for Windsor Police The change of brand was primarily a financial decision says Sgt. Corey

In December of 2011, the Windsor Police Service became the first police department in Canada to purchase six of Victory Police Motorcycles. The department has made the decision to replace six of its fleet of bikes from Harley-Davidson to Victory. It now owns six

of each brand. Windsor Police spokesperson Sgt. Brett Corey said, the decision to switch was primarily a financial one. The department purchased six bikes last year. Each cost nearly $7,000 less than Harley-Davidson ones, ac-

NOW OPEN!

Randy George Scott turned himself into police in Kelowna Tuesday night. Scott was released from custody without making a court appearance, Wednesday. The motorcycle speeder consented to return to Victoria, where he will appear in court on August 16. The Victoria man was placed under several conditions regarding his release, including a driving ban. The warrant was issued last week after police obtained a copy of a video posted on YouTube allegedly showing Scott on a Yamaha motorcycle weaving in and out of traffic and passing between vehicles at dangerous speeds of up of 299 km/h. The bike’s owner, who is not Scott, was issued tickets totalling $1,449, including $368 for driving without due care and attention, $483 for excessive speed and $598 for having no insurance.

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cording to Corey. Former fleet manager Bill Hunt and former Windsor Police Chief Gary Smith travelled to Victory headquarters in Tuscon, Ariz., where the two officers test rode the bikes, then signed off on the new deal. see page 3

Your road to FREEDOM Starts Here.

August 2012, The Motorcycle Times â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2

continued from cover Both have since retired. Now, mechanics from Victory will train mechanics employed by the City of Windsor to service the bikes. “We don’t have to contract out the service,” Corey said. “It will be a significant cost reduction.” Is this the start of a new trend in police motorcycling? Michigan State Police may now be saying bye-bye to the American-made Harley-Davidson and Vroom! Vroom! to BMW as its motorcycle of choice. Nine BMW R1200s were bought in April and joined the Harley-Davidsons on their department’s fleet of 24 motorcycles. The German-made police bikes were reported to simply perform better in tests, state police spokeswoman Shannon Banner said. “It was something we put a lot of consideration into,” Banner said. “We are Americans, after all; we’re in Michigan, home of the auto industry. It was all about safety and performance. That’s what the whole vehicle-testing program is about. We really could no longer ignore what we were seeing in the tests.” The Detroit Police Department received the company’s first police motorcycle in 1908, according to the Harley-Davidson website, but a performance test from last fall ranked the BMW R1200 faster with superior handling and better safety features. It also costs less. BMW bid $23,549 and $24,022 this year. Harley-Davidson’s bids were $24,406 and $24,791. Motorcycles are re-evaluated each time the state police decide to buy more, Banner added. The use of motorcycles by various police forces and departments all over the world proved to be one of the most efficient choices through the years, as their maneuverabil-

ity on crowded streets offer advantages not provided by traditional police vehicles. The motorcycle’s relatively small size allows it to get to accident scenes more quickly when incidents such as traffic collisions slow down access by four-wheel vehicles. Motorcycles also tend to consume less fuel than police cars, which saves costs for the police departments that use them. The basic requirements of a police motorcycle are windshields, saddle boxes, pursuit lights, and folding floorboards rather than foot pegs. The motorcycles used depend on a number of factors such as geographical location

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or urbanization. The motorcycles chosen may be cruisers, sport bikes, touring bikes for their specialized capabilities. These bikes are also specially designed to carry radio communications devices and are wired for electronic sirens. Typically, the motorcycles used are marketed by Harley-Davidson, Yamaha, Honda, or BMW and now Victory. Motorcycles have been used by police officers since the early beginnings of the 20th century. The first official police motorcycle patrol was organized in the U.S. in 1911 by Chief August Vollmer of the Berkeley, Califor-

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nia Police Department. However, motorcycles were used even earlier by several police forces as patrol vehicles. During 1908, the police department in Evanston, Illinois, purchased a beltdriven motorcycle for its first motorcycle police officer. The following year, a police officer from the Portland, Oregon Police Bureau was using his personal motorcycle to patrol the city. Since then, the role of the motorcycle as an efficient public transportation and their use by the police forces has grown enormously, becoming a must-have in any police unit. Harley-Davidson Police motorcycles have been used by cops for quite a while now. Today, they are used in 45 countries all over the world. More than 225 U.S. law enforcement agencies, including the California Highway Patrol, have BMW authority motorcycles in their fleets of patrol vehicles. BMW produces police-specific models such as the R1200RT and R900RT, the latter not available to the general public. Many motorcycle police units have recently considered changing their fleet from Harley-Davidson to Honda, since a Honda model costs less and requires cheaper maintenance. The Honda Gold Wing ST1300PA is specially equipped for police duty. In the UK, the Yamaha FJR1300 has replaced the Honda ST1300 as the patrol motorcycle in several police forces. The Kawasaki police motorcycles were produced in four series, and though production was ceased in 2005, they are still in use with many major law enforcement agencies. The most common model was the KZ1000P, also known as the KZP. And now Victory has come on board to compete for the police motorcycle market place.

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* Victory and Victory motorcycles are registered trademarks of Polaris Industries Inc. Always wear a Helmet, Eye Protection and wear protective clothing and obey the speed limit. Never ride under the inﬂuence of drugs or alcohol. Copyright 2012 Polaris Industries Inc. License, insurance, PPSA, and Tax are extra. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Vehicle(s) and accessories are for illustration purposes only. Offers subject to change without notice. See us for full details. Sale Price includes freight and P.D.E., ECRF and OMVIC Fee.

* License, insurance, PPSA, and Tax are extra. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Vehicle(s) and accessories are for illustration purposes only. Offers subject to change without notice. See us for full details. Sale Price includes freight and P.D.E., ECRF and OMVIC Fee.

3 – The Motorcycle Times, August 2012

Windsor Police Partner with Polaris

August 2012, The Motorcycle Times – 4

BRAIN STORM opinions

BRENT WAKEFORD Editor, The Motorcycle Times

Wakeup Call for PD13 As many of you know, another Port Dover, Friday the 13th has come and gone, in fact, this is the last one this year and we will not see another until September 2013. For the Friday the 13th junkies, it’s going to be a long haul till they get their next fix. But really, who are the junkies? The riders; coming to town for the event or the town’s folks; who are racking in all the dough? Record numbers, again, descended on the tiny lakeside town of Port Dover to once again, meet with friends, swig a couple of pints and enjoy a day of biker-dom. I had the opportunity this year during all three Friday’s, to talk with a lot of folks, some regulars and some first timers to this event. The first timers, of course, loved this event even after fighting the traffic and long lines in and around town, and had good things to say about the day. That said, the regulars on the other hand, the riders who made this event what it is, are actually for the most part getting sick and tired of this event with the blatant cash grab, the politics and the same-old, sameold. Many a rider I talked with say, this event has run it’s course. In the old days, it was fun to take the day off from work, cough, cough, I’m sick boss, and make the trek to Port Dover to meet with friends, buy a shirt, have a beer, listen to some tunes and rekindle the rebel that is inside us all. Now, you have to be into town before 6am if you want a parking spot even near Main Street. Mostly all the vendors sell the same off-shore trinkets that they peddle at every motorcycle show throughout the year; no variety, no quality, no flare and at inflated prices. The price of food is through the roof, cover charges are becoming the norm and bars have waiting lists to enter. This was an event, where you used to be able to grab a shirt, lunch and a beer without taking out a second mortgage. An event that riders came to from all over, for something out of the ordinary. Here’s a destination in Southern Ontario that holds a motorcycle event only on a Friday the 13th, wow, that’s gotta be cool, but no, it’s the same as any other event, just crammed into one day. PD13 committee was formed some years back and tried to make it happen right, but with all the politics getting involved, the butting heads and huge egos, the committee pulled and walked away. I don’t blame them. It got away from both sides when it just became about the bottom dollar, what’s in it for me, the how much more can we make attitude? It was no longer about welcoming the riders coming in from all over the coun-

try and in some cases internationally and showing them a good time, showing them what Port Dover’s Ambassadors could do for them. It wasn’t about having the largest single day motorcycle rally in history or even in the world book of records. It was about the money. They all wanted more. The vendor’s booth prices went through the roof, the parking lots gouged, even the shuttle bus service from outside of town jacked their rates from per car to per person and don’t even get me started on the police and their roadside checks costing riders with fines. Welcome to Port Dover, empty your wallet and then leave. You know what, the town’s people of Port Dover worried in the early days of the bikers coming to town and fearing we’d rape and pillage, then after years of that not happening, they cried and complained constantly about us coming to town on Friday the 13th’s and disrupting their lives and their quaint little lakeside tourist town, but they sure haven’t complained about the money we spend there, have they? Who’s pillaging whom? I don’t hear a single complaint from a store owner walking away with thousands, if not tens of thousands of dollars in their pockets from one day of sales. I think we should give them back their town. Let them go back to just making ends meet from their little theatres and fishing and perch dinners. These people are taking our event away from us, right under our noses. They are the ones letting the town committees jack prices, inflate charges, make rules to suit their needs and not the needs of the people coming to spend their hard earned cash. Did you know that make-shift campgrounds were full by Wednesday and they were turning riders away. I heard of attendees having to stay as far away as Hamilton in motels because Port Dover couldn’t/wouldn’t accommodate them. How many unused parks and other schools were there to put up riders coming to town? Maybe they didn’t expect the large numbers on a beautiful summer day for the last event of the year. Do you hear my sarcasm? You better smarten up Port Dover. This event can dry right up in the blink of an eye. We are in the age of twitter and facebook and social networking. The word can spread like wildfire. Either send your people to other large motorcycle events around the globe to learn from them or expand it to a week long event ending on Friday the 13th and stop the cash grab or maybe another little town will come along and welcome us there instead. Just my opinion, or is it!

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SKID MARKS is the place to let it all hang out, not literally. Have an outrageous picture of a friend and want to share it with everyone, recommend a road, get your scars out, share some top tips or just blather on about something funny. Watch our website, we’ll be posting the good stuff... for the world to see.

Over-the-hill t-shirt not secure. izes his load is al re he as ed e is piss Terry the Twinki

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Honda develops new line of Patio Furniture

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5 – The Motorcycle MotorcycleTimes, Times,August August2012 2012

SKID MARKS

4 – The Motorcycle Times , June 2010

THE REAL WORLD

August 2012, The Motorcycle Times – 6

MOTORCYCLENEWS AUDI acquires Ducati Motor Holding 2013 MODEL LAUNCH PARTY - August 30 - H-D MUSEUM MILWAUKEE, WI: If you want a sneak peek at the 2013 models first hand you might want to take a little trip to the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee. Be one of the first to throw a leg over the new machines. Check out the new bikes, meet the engineers, happy hour specials, giveaways and more!

Noise Update Police are now cracking down on motorcycle noise in Windsor, Ontario. It’s creeping across the country slowly but with momentum. Windsor Deputy Chief Jerome Brannigan said officers are on the lookout for altered mufflers that generate excessive or unusual noise. He said police have laid charges and ticketed 50 people since officers began the crackdown earlier this year. Although they continue to write fines, they have experienced a conviction rate of only 50 per cent. This tells me that, they didn’t have this whole thing all figured out in the beginning and were writing the tickets in hopes most won’t fight but just pay. Windsor patrol officers are still on the lookout for offending bikers, either way. Brannigan was quoted as saying “250 officers took specialized training to make the crackdown effective.” “We went through the definition of what a straight pipe is and what a gutted muffler is and what a Hollywood muffler is,” Brannigan said. “We also gave examples and suggestions on how to articulate unnecessary or unusual noise.” Windsor Coun. Jo-Anne Gignac said loud bikes affect the quality of life in Windsor and that council has received numerous complaints about the noise, particularly at night. In June 2010, Edmonton passed Cana-

da’s first excessive MOTORCYCLE noise bylaw. It focused on MOTORCYLE engines louder than 92 decibels while idling and 96 decibels while the engine was revving. Police in Edmonton used decibel meters but found they lost cases because of compromising factors such as background noise. A similar law was passed in Bathurst, N.B., in 2011. Caledon then jumped on board next and then Oakville. The conviction figures are not in yet for these towns using said devices, but I suspect if the riders are wise, they will fight these tickets until these police forces can do the crackdowns by the book. According to paperwork now filed at council just recently, Windsor Police will, now, enforce the law as it relates to vehicles and motorcycles under the Highway Traffic Act as it is currently written. Until the province introduces changes to regulate motor vehicle noise using decibel meters, the department will not buy any of the devices. Instead, police will focus on modified mufflers. The Highway Traffic Act says it is an offence to cause a vehicle to make any unnecessary noise or operate without a muffler or certain modified mufflers. It also gives police the authority to inspect motor vehicles. The fine for noise violations under the Highway Traffic Act is $110.

Seventh Annual Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Banquet and Reunion Invites Motorcycling Community to Donate Items for Silent Auction Markham, ON - July 25, 2012 - With less than four months to go until this year’s Induction Banquet, the Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame is requesting the donation of motorelated items and collectibles for our alwayspopular Silent Auction. “The Silent Auction is one of our most popular fundraising programs and is an integral component in our fundraising strategy” explains Hall of Fame Chair Kellee Irwin. “As always, we are reaching out to the fantastic people and companies in the motorcycle industry and community to secure donated items for this year’s event”. The Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame is seeking a wide-range of collectibles and items, both endemic and non-endemic to motorcycling. They should be new and unused unless they have historic significance, such as a race-worn riding suit as used by one of our current or future Hall of Famers, or an auto-

graphed period-specific photograph or poster. Gift cards, travel vouchers, and hotel nights are always popular as well. If you have items that may not be suitable for the silent auction, but would still consider donating them to the Hall to help raise funds, please contact us to make arrangements. GP Bikes of Whitby, Ontario has already stepped up and donated two Bell Helmets for this year’s auction. These are no ordinary helmets however, as they have the signatures of 16 Honourable Members to date, and we expect that number to rise to more than 30 as we continue to collect autographs throughout the summer and fall. To donate items for the Silent Auction or for more information, please contact Daniel Tessier at daniel@motorcycling.ca or at 647.920.1334. For more info contact Daniel H. Tessier at daniel@motorcycling.ca or 647.920.1334.

Ingolstadt/Bologna, April 18, 2012‚ - AUDI AG is acquiring from Investindustrial Group the tradition-steeped Italian sports motorcycle manufacturer Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A., which has its registered office in Bologna. The transaction will be completed as quickly as possible once authorized by the competition authorities. The Supervisory Boards of AUDI AG and Volkswagen AG approved the acquisition today in Hamburg. Ducati is known worldwide as a leading brand in motorcycle manufacture, with outstanding expertise in engine development and lightweight construction. Alongside the traditional Italian brands Lamborghini and Italdesign, Ducati is now a third pillar for AUDI AG in Northern Italy. Another building block in the Company’s growth strategy thus falls into place. Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, declared: “Ducati is known worldwide as a premium brand among motorcycle manufacturers and has a long tradition of building sporty motorcycles. It has great expertise in highperformance engines and lightweight con-

RumourHasIt.. .

struction, and is one of the world’s most profitable motorcycle manufacturers. That makes Ducati an excellent fit for Audi.” The progressive control systems and special combustion chamber process of Ducati engines, their resulting sporty character, and Ducati’s extensive know-how in lightweight construction thus offer great potential for AUDI AG and the Volkswagen Group. Peter Mosch, Chairman of the General Works Council of AUDI AG, explains that the employee representatives of AUDI AG support the Company’s sustainable, codetermined growth strategy. “We must use the opportunities offered by globalization for Audi,” and that’s exactly what we’re doing. Everyone at Audi is looking forward to working with our new colleagues from Ducati,” commented Mosch. Ducati maintains a series of importer companies in strategic markets. Experts predict that the motorcycle market will enjoy strong growth over the next few years, especially in Asia. In 2011, Ducati sold around 42,000 motorcycles employing around 1,100 people.

2013 is Harley’s 110th anniversary, so you might see a theme developing.

The touring models, with the 1688cc engine, we hear there’s the new Road King Anniversary Edition and on three wheels the Tri Glide Anniversary Edition. In the Sportster line-up, we’re told a new model is the Sportster 1200 Custom Anniversary Edition, while it looks like the Nightster may be ditched. In the Dyna and Softail lines there’s suppose to be a new Fat Boy Special Anniversary Edition, Heritage Softail Classic Anniversary Edition and Super Glide Custom Anniversary Edition, rumour has it. At the moment we’re led to believe that “Anniversary Edition” means black paint and some special badges, hmmmm. Harley are also rumoured to be reinventing the Buell Blast, a 500cc single aimed at new riders and the emerging markets... but then again. it’s all just rumours.

Ontario Riders/Driver fee’s Increasing License’s and License Plate Sticker’s are about to increase starting September 1, 2012. To help save a little money you can purchase your sticker up to 6 months in advance. “Renewal Eligibility: Up to six months in advance of your current expiration date.” So if your birthday is after Sept.1, 2012 you should go and get your sticker before Sept.1, even if your birthday is in Dec. Remember that you can purchase your validation sticker for up to 2 years at the old rate of $74.00 per year. Here is the breakdown: Vehicle-Related Transactions

2012

Sept 2012

Jan 2013

Jan 2014+

Passenger vehicles validation stickers In Southern Ontario $74 In Northern Ontario $37

$82.00 $41.00

Motorcycle validation stickers In Southern Ontario In Northern Ontario

Our Government website is complicated and not very user friendy. So there is little information on this one, so check with your local office.

Motorcycle License Knowledge Test (written) Class M1 Road Test Class M2 Road Test

$42 $21 2012 $10.00* $40.00 $75.00

$90.00 $45.00

$98.00 $49.00

2013+ $15.00 $50.00 $85.00

*If applicant is completing a Ministry of Transportation-approved motorcycle safety course, only the Knowledge Test ($10.00) and 90 day Licence fee ($7.50) is required. Here is a link http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/news/backgrounder/fee-changes-2012-03-12.shtml. Above is just a short list but there are more increases, please check with your local Service Ontario office.

KW HONDA has been locally owned & operated since 1987 by the Davidson family. Every aspect of our dealership is managed by people who care about your Honda needs. We are a single line exclusive Honda power sports & power equipment dealership located in Waterloo ON. We sell & service Honda motorcycles, ATV’s & Power equipment including lawn mowers, tillers, trimmers, generators, water pumps & snow blowers. We bring over 35 years of experience with Honda products to our sales, service, parts & accessory departments. Whether you need a spark plug for a 1970 CT70, information on the new 2010 CBF600F or the blade sharpened on your Honda lawn mower we can help. At KW HONDA it is all about Honda. Our Showroom is stocked with over 60 motorcycles & ATV’s plus a full line of Honda power equipment, Honda clothing, accessories & parts. Our technicians stay abreast of Honda’s latest technology with continuous factory training. We offer Honda’s exclusive Honda Plus (extended owner comfort) as well as in-house financing with Honda Financial Services. The Davidsons invite you to stop by or visit us at www.kwhonda.com We believe in our Honda products, the quality, the value they offer & THE POWER OF DREAMS.

Meet Rob Davidson & Sons Jesse & Kelly Business Hours: Mon 9:00-6:00 Tues 9:00-6:00 Wed 9:00-6:00 Thur 9:00-8:00 Fri 9:00-6:00 Sat 9:00-2:00

August 2012, The Motorcycle Times – 8

two cents SCOTT MACDONALD Contributing Writer, TMT

What a Head Case

Choose Sheridan for professional motorcycle training that gives you the skills and experience to safely and knowledgeably navigate our roads and highways. We are one of the largest motorcycle programs in Canada, and our dedicated instructors make the difference! Their enthusiasm for motorcycle riding and your safety creates a comfortable, personalized learning experience. Courses offered: • M1 Exit (includes the M2 test). • M2 Exit (includes the M Test).

Helmets not only protect our heads in the event of most slow speed impacts, but they can also be a stylish addition to your riding gear. Manufacturers have been working hard to improve the aesthetics as well as the safety features. Some of the most notable style conscious manufacturers comes to us from across the Atlantic and goes by the name of NEXX. If you are looking for style in a helmet, you have to check this brand out. Like many of the more familiar brands, NEXX is also taking advantage of carbon fiber technology for it’s incredible strength to weight advantages. The helmet market is flooded with many low priced competitors offering gadgetry or gimmicks or graphics to get you to notice them and perhaps save a few bucks over brands like Arai and NEXX. So amidst all the cool looking features and the fancy schmancy graphics, how can the average person be sure they are getting a quality helmet? Well the first thing you need to look for is a helmet with the DOT or SNELL decal applied to the rear of the helmet. This decal indicates that the manufacturer and model has passed minimum required safety testing. But here is the problem with DOT – Manufacturers do NOT have to test their helmets in order to claim a DOT rating. A manufacturer is only required to “feel” that a helmet is meeting the DOT specifications to brand it as DOT rated. In contrast to the DOT Rating, in order to acquire a SNELL rating, a helmet manufacturer must voluntarily submit their products for Snell evaluation and pay for the testing procedures. To achieve a Snell rating, the submitted helmet must meet or exceed seven test types from impact and shell penetration to flame resistance testing. The exact type and degree of testing is dependent on the type of helmet and its intended application. Suffice to say, a Snell rated helmet is what you want to have to ensure piece of mind but how do you know which helmets are rated and which ones are not? Before you make an impulsive purchase, visit www.smf.org/cert – here you can look up the manufacturer and model of the helmets you are interested in. Or you can find out which brands to shop for. The availability of Snell rated helmets in

Canada is dependent on the company who is importing their helmets for retail sales. You may find it difficult to find a specific model or a favorite style north of the 49th parallel. But that doesn’t mean you should simply settle for another choice, with the popularity of online shopping you can easily purchase the helmet of your choice and have it shipped to your location with relative ease and at very competitive pricing. Before any of you get bent out of shape, I am not promoting shopping south of the border, but it’s a fact of life and due to this economy, consumers will go where they get what they want for the price they are wiling to pay – don’t be naive! When you are choosing your helmet, remember that although some helmets are rated higher than others, using your head is the best way to protect your head. Obviously look for a helmet that you like from a manufacturer you trust and ensure the helmet properly fits your melon properly. A sloppy fitting helmet can come off upon impact and a worse case scenario possibly if the wind catches the brim just right while at speed. Most dealers have qualified “fitters” to ensure a proper fit – don’t just assume a fit is right. Last but not least, care and serviceability. Some helmets have available through their website and area dedicated to accessories and replacement parts – typically you will find these sites associated with higher end helmet manufacturers. Replacement padding, clips, screws etc can often be ordered during the course of a helmets life which is typically a maximum of five years. Yes, five years is the recommended time in which a helmet should be used and then replaced for a new one. Also if a helmet should impact a hard surface like concrete or asphalt from a height of approx. two and a half feet, the helmet may have incurred a hairline fracture and be substancialy compromised during a real emergency. Be sure to keep your helmet clean and free from odor by periodically removing the padding inside and throwing it in the laundry. The rest is a no brainer, keep the visor as clean as possible, free from fingerprints and scratches with a microfiber cloth and some mild soap. Enjoy the ride.

...and the Winner is: For more information: 905-845-9430, ext. 2690 (Oakville/Mississauga) 905-681-4611, ext. 2690 (Burlington/Hamilton) 905-459-7533, ext. 5190 (Brampton/Mississauga)

sheridanmotorcycle.ca

Mary LaLonde ‘Like us’ on facebook at: facebook/motorcycletimes and you’re automatically entered for a chance to win a $50 gas card from Husky or Petro Canada. • Contest closes August 24th. Winner(s) are chosen randomly and annouced here and on our facebook page.

9 – The Motorcycle Times, August 2012

Feel a deep connection with road. three oF Feel athe deep connection them the to be eXact . with road. three oF them to be eXact. The Can-Am® Spyder® RT and RS roadsters. With a unique, three-wheeled stance and intuitive, rider-focused features, it’s everything you need to become one with the road. ® It’s Reinvented. Discover what thousands ofariders Theriding. Can-Am Spyder® RT and RS roadsters. With unique, already know at can-am.brp.com. three-wheeled stance and intuitive, rider-focused features, it’s everything you need to become one with the road. It’s riding. Reinvented. Discover what thousands of riders already know at can-am.brp.com.

vehicle stability system

semi-automatic transmission

dynamic power steering

An automotive-like system integrating stability, traction and anti-lock braking for an incredibly stability confident ride. vehicle system

No clutch lever or foot shifter here. Your left thumb shifts up and your forefinger shifts down. With reverse. (Manual available) transmission semi-automatic

Adjusts required effort through acceleration, speed and steering angle data. More comfort and improved control. dynamic power steering

An automotive-like system integrating stability, traction and anti-lock braking for an incredibly confident ride.

No clutch lever or foot shifter here. Your left thumb shifts up and your forefinger shifts down. With reverse. (Manual available)

Adjusts required effort through acceleration, speed and steering angle data. More comfort and improved control.

Visit one of these Authorized Can-Am Dealers for more information. Bennett Powersports 701Brock St North, Whitby 905-430-6360 or 866-430-6360 www.bennettpowersports.com INTERNAL CANENG BRP Bieda’s Powersports DEALER 952 Foss Road, Fenwick 24700 NORTHEWSTERN SOUTHFIELD ON 48075 905-892-7529 or 866-774-0909 (313) 333-4141 INTERNAL CANENG BRP www.biedaspowersports.com DEALER 24700 NORTHEWSTERN SOUTHFIELD ON 48075 (313) 333-4141

Uxbridge Motorsports Marine 3 Douglas Road Dealer -Imprint Uxbridge 905-852-5884 Goes Here www.uxbridgemotorsports.com

Dealer Imprint Goes Here Limited Northland Recreation 1007 Cowan Park Road Utterson - 705-769-3671 www.northlandrecreation.com

©2011 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, ™ and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. Always ride responsibly and safely and observe applicable laws. Remember that riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix.

610376

Factory Recreation 347 Cranston Cres. Midland - 705-526-2248 www.factoryrecreation.com Team Vincent Motorsports 1148-2 Northumberland St., Ayr, 519.632.8810 or 800-221-4360 www.teamvincentmotorsports.com

August 2012, The Motorcycle Times – 10

ROADTEST

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2012Triumph Street Triple R Riding this naked British firecracker is simply just a tonne of fun!

by marissa BAECker Contributing Writer - TMT Whether you like the retro-styling, the history or the modern technology with a historical flare, the union jack is back and Triumph Motorcycles are returning our classic favourites to the Canadian market and creating a few new ones at the same time. What is the difference between the Street Triple and Street Triple R? Triumph says “It’s a Street Triple with more attitude and more spec.” It appears to be a standard sport bike yet shares the frame of the supersport Triumph Daytona. Initially introduced to the line-up in 2008, it’s popularity has kept it coming. When I walked around the Street Triple R, the Chrystal White gloss paint (also available in Diablo Red and Phantom Black) paired with the brushed black metal, twin headlights and mirrors up off the handlebars, this roadster was creating images of an insect – but absent a fairing, a naked one. Turn the key and both those headlights are on – great feature and Triumph gets bonus points for this. I have said it time and time again, having one headlight on and one off is a complete turn off whether you are riding the bike or one is coming at you. Get behind the bars, the dials will tell

you what type of ride to expect. A digital display offers easy to read speedo, odo, trip meter, temperature, 99 lap timer (for those fun track days), while the remaining indicators are housed in the tach. The tach is what will get your attention and foreshadow your ride. Red line on your tach starts around 14,000 rpm. When you are riding, you reach around 5,000 rpm and a line of LED lights appears at the top but the real power in this machine will show itself as needle continues the climb. This little beast produces 50 ft. lbs. of torque at 9,200 rpm but the average rider may not get there but just knowing that is where the bike offers 105 HP, will leave something to explore during your time with the bike. With a seat height of 31.7”/805 mm, I anticipated being a little cramped with my 34” inseam but was pleasantly surprised at the amount of room and adjustment space available. Adjustable inverted Kayaba 41 mm inverted forks in the front and Kayaba monoshock in the rear allows you to tailor your ride and absorb those bumps. Seated relatively tight to the tank enables your thighs to naturally grip the body of the bike and the pegs are placed directly down from the rider’s seat providing a balanced centre of gravity. My arms were the perfect length to the

29.7” handlebars and locking in for an upright ride. Wrist angle was not an issue although after an hour or so, my shoulders were complaining a little but that could be attributed to the absence of a wind screen and testing my endurance at highway speeds around 100 km/h. The wind is the only thing that will drain you however as this machine weights in at 416 lbs/189 kg, flips from side to side in the curves like pancakes on a Sunday morning, and pulls out of the corners with barely a twist of the throttle encouraging a rider to chase the sunset rather than stop for coffee and with an average 17.4 litre/4.6 US Gallon fuel tank, 51 miles per gallon at highway speed, and about $20 to fill the tank, you will be able to explore the open road. Engine is a fuel injected, liquid-cooled, 12 valve, in-line three cylinder, 675 cc with

a six speed transmission. Clutch control is key to offering a smooth ride. You can pop it through the gears for a rocket ship exit from the lights or climb the RPMs gradually and get a smoother acceleration. What brings this pandora’s box to a halt? Twin 308mm floating discs in the front and single 220mm disc in the rear on cast aluminum alloy five spoke 17” wheels with 120/70 in the front and 180/55 in the rear resembling that super moto slick. The stainless steel 3 into 1 into 2 exhaust system with twin high level polished stainless steel silencers are positioned right under the seat. Some riders have expressed feeling heat on their bottoms which may not be a welcome addition on a mid-summer day with the climbing mercury but the day I rode was relatively cool and with a higher than average wind so I didn’t notice it.

876

Costof $ Insurance

/year*

* DISCLAIMER: Please note that this insurance quote should only be used as a guideline and is based on a 35-40 year old male rider, with full M license for minimum two years. Quoted Insurance rate is also based on maximum annual range of 8,000 kms with $1 million liability coverage and a $500 deductible. This quote does not include any discounts for multi-line coverage or any other possible available discounts. Riders considering purchasing any motorcycle should contact their insurance agent and acquire an exact quote based on their motorcycle of choice, circumstances, location of residence, driving history and other rate determining factors before purchasing. The Motorcycle Times will not be held responsible or liable for insurance quotes that differ from the above example.

SS RE

PR OG

Don’t Be This Guy!

ADVANCED ROAD CRAFT

TRAIN ING

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11 – The Motorcycle Times, August 2012

SAFETY

ININ G

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Powersports vehicles need a powerful battery, one built to take the constant pounding that comes with the territory. Whether you ride a metric cruiser, sport bike, scooter or American iron, the staff at Great Northern Battery Systems has the right battery, testers & chargers for your ride. And we can get it to you quickly

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FORFOR 60 60 MONTHS MONTHS PURCHASE PURCHASE 2012 2012Honda HondaGold GoldWing Wing FINANCING FINANCING

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DL650A DL650A V-STROM V-STROM $$ 650ABS 650ABS2012 2012

10 10015 015

2011 2011Honda Honda 2010 2010Honda HondaAero Aero 2010 2010Honda Honda CBR125RB CBR125RB VT750CAAA VT750CAAA VT1300SAA VT1300SAA

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forfor6060months months $1450 $1450down down * $$ Selling Sellingprice price$28,199 31,165 31,165+ tax + tax

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OVER OVER5050USED USEDMOTORCYCLES MOTORCYCLESIN-STOCK! IN-STOCK!

STARTING STARTINGFROM FROM$3,199 $3,199

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$419 369 369

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WB20XK2C WB20 WB20TRANSFER TRANSFERPUMP PUMP WB20XK2C $$ ** WeWe SellSell 1.5” 1.5” - 4.0” - 4.0” Water Water Pumps! Pumps!

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2012CROSS CROSSCOUNTRY COUNTRY 21 21825 825** 2012

2012POLARIS POLARIS 399 399 2012 $$ SPORTSMAN SPORTSMAN500500HOHO ** 11,299 , 299 $$ ** 66,999 ,999* Outboard Outboard $6,899

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2012 2012POLARIS POLARIS RANGER RANGER800XP 800XP $$ ** * ,, www.readypolaris.com www.readypolaris.com 430 430Hensall HensallCircle CircleMississauga Mississauga 905-896-1600 905-896-1600Toll TollFree: Free:1-855-896-0430 1-855-896-0430

$13,199 1212999 999

14 14015 015

2012 2012 $$ GSX-R750L2 GSX-R750L2 2012 2012SUZUKI SUZUKIKING KINGQUAD QUAD4WD 4WD Automatic Automatic& &Power PowerSteering Steering LT-A500XPL2 LT-A500XPL2

$10,399 99499 499 *

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August 2012, The Motorcycle Times – 12

shop talk BRENT WAKEFORD Contributing Writer, TMT

Toronto’s only authorized Moto Guzzi, Aprilla, Vespa and Paiggio dealer and sservice centre New and used motorcycle sales, service parts and accessories

34 Futurity Gate, Suite #1, Vaughan On. t: 905-760-9933 f:905-760-9934

The

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The Motorcycle Times is looking for a few good writers. If you think you have what it takes to be a part of our team, send in a sample story to: editor@themotorcycletimes.ca Ya never know, maybe there’s a hidden Woodward or Bernstien in you somewhere. ExtraExtra.indd 1

12-05-30 2:24 PM

With summer officially here, many a rider is planning those road trips, whether it be cross country, cross America or just away for a day or two. As we all know, motorcycling is a fabulous way to travel, filled with adventure around every corner. Your experiences with riding is always more enjoyable when they go without incident. That, of course, doesn’t always happen, but in this mini resource article, I hope to give some insight on how to be prepared for your trip and while on the road. In previous articles, we have covered prepping your bike for the season, the proper apparel to wear and covering the basics of keeping your bike in tip top shape. Depending on the distance you plan to travel, you’ll want to make sure that your tires will outlast the mileage roundtrip from departure to return. Obviously a fresh oil change and once or twice over the bike is recommended and then you need to ready yourself. A smart investment is the auto club. There is nothing worse then being stranded on the side of the road in who knows where county, having cell phone in hand and no one to call. Whether you stay local or travel across the country, having the proper clothes for all weather conditions is a smart move. There are parts unknown where it can be over a hundred degrees during the day and freezing by night, so pack for all the elements including the rain. A good cheap road trick if needed is to line your jacket and down your boots with newspapers or magazines to keep out the cold. A neck scarf soaked in cold water, wrapped around your neck helps keep you cooler in the heat. Don’t forget things like sunscreen and bug spray. If you plan to travel on a budget, camping at KOA’s and Mom & Pop campgrounds will keep the cost down. Do your research in advance to find which ones you may want to stop at along your route. If using a GPS, save numerous locations as back-ups in case the one you want is full and alternate routes in case of road closures and construction. If camping, you’ll require a minimum amount of gear from sleeping bag and tent to some tools for set-up etc. The next step up is a motel and they are dotted across America, some are more friendly to riders than others. Some even have special guest services for riders, like bike washing area and special parking arrangements etc. Depending on your taste and needs, remember, it’s just a clean, dry place to shower and lay your head for the night. As long as it’s clean and quiet, it

Road Trip

doesn’t have to be Ritz. Dinning along the way can be anything from wieners and beans and hobo pies at campgrounds to t-bone steaks at five star joints or anything in between. This again, comes down to taste vs budget. If you have a destination or rally in mind, you may want to dine on cheesies and energy drinks on the road and spend your hard earned cash once there to treat yourself. Some of the other necessities you might want to pack could be, bottles of water, cell phone charger, electrical tape and wire, a small tool bag, duct tape, zip ties, spare bulbs, flashlight, Swiss Army knife and matches or a lighter. Optional items could include spare bike key(s), lock, first aid kit, a list of bike shops and dealerships along your route, a can of fix-a-flat and preparation H if you’re on an Iron Butt run logging big miles. If traveling on a budget; a bedroll, a can of chilli and a flask of Jack is really all you need. If no budget, take your platinum card, motor home, trailer, bike mechanic, 40 thousand in cash, your maid, personal masseur and a rock star celebrity to keep you company. All kidding aside, and yes, I am kidding about you RUB’s out there, but you know who you are, sometimes packing everything you own isn’t the way to go or an option but pack what you need and packing it right is important. If you are taking liquids like toiletries and such, use freezer bags or prepare to wash the brut or channel out of everything you own upon arrival. Let friends or family know your schedule and route if not winging it and keep them updated via calls, text, tweets, facebook etc. to avoid worry or sending out a search party. I have always gone with the “Have it, not need it, rather than need it, not have it” mentality. Mother Nature is so unpredictable and I have spent far too much time in roadside laundry mats, sitting in my shorts, drying everything worn and packed. Besides your route, pick travel times that will keep you out of rush hour traffic in major cities. Keeping your route far off the beaten path and very rural is nice but can come with unforeseen results, like breakdowns in nowhere-ville or roadside hazards like deer, moose etc. So remember that just before dawn and right around dusk, the wildlife come out to play in traffic. Be prepared, be aware and be safe. Either way, get out there, see this beautiful country on two wheels, the sights, the sounds, the smells but be safe and arrive alive.

What

are you waiting for?

13 – The Motorcycle Times, August 2012

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www.oakvilleyamaha.com Always wear an approved helmet, eye protection and proper protective riding apparel. Do not drink and ride. Read your owners manual. Ride safely ad respect the environment. Yamaha recommends all riders take an approved motorcycle safety training course.

August 2012, The Motorcycle Times – 14

Let’s Go For A Ride in Ontario We continue the tour heading towards the Kingston & Ottawa

by CHRIS FRANKLIN Contributing Writer - TMT When most riders think about the roads of Ontario, they think FLAT but if you know where to go, you can find some of the best rural country roads packed full of twisties, switchbacks, curves and hills. So, over the course of the next few issues, The Motorcycle Times will take you across the Province will some of the best riding roads we know of. Whether you open your google maps to bookmark these following destinations or pull out your GPS to build your route, you’ll be pleasantly surprised of what Ontario roads have to offer.

Kingston Area

North of Belleville, Hwy 7 cuts a mildly curving path through rocky outcroppings and swampy lakes. It would make for a fine cruise if it weren’t so clogged with boat trailers, motor homes and the holiday hordes. A far more interesting jaunt for motorcyclists is the rural route running roughly parallel to Hwy 7 and accessed off Hwy 37 just south of Tweed. Road 13 commences with the scenic shores of Stoco Lake. Stoco takes its name from Chief Stougcong of the Mississauga First Nation. You may let out a few woo hoos as you send your bike packing around the bends and dips in the road all the way to the picturesque village of Marlbank and Hwy 41. Rd 13 is marked “Marlbank Road” at the Hwy 41 end opposite Beaver Lake. Hwy 41 heads northwards to rejoin Hwy 7 and this is a decent cruise, but though overly well patrolled by the Kaladar OPP detachment. A few minutes north of Kingston is the town of Verona, from which Desert Lake Road departs east through rocky lake country. It’s paved all the way, but the corners marked 20 km/h are often sprinkled with gravel. The route goes up, down and around the contours, which means a lot of blind hills. To borrow a

motocross term, on a few of these “whoops” you’ll get more air on your street bike than some dirt riders get off road. Tons of fun, but just make sure you land before the next granite outcropping looms in your face. At the halfway point, the route passes the turnoff to Frontenac Provincial Park and the surface gets a little rough in spots, though the southbound lane is better than northbound. The road ends at the town of Sydenham, from which you can head east to other great motorcycle roads in the area. Near the historic Rideau Locks at Jones Falls, a plaque commemorates LieutenantColonel John By of the Royal Engineers. Colonel By oversaw the construction of the lock system from Kingston to Ottawa. You can get a taste of the rugged terrain he had to deal with by travelling Road 11, the Jones Falls Road, from Highway 15 to Sunbury. The fun curves and elevation changes of Leeds & Grenville County give way to seriously tight bends as the road enters Frontenac County. Ruined pioneer homesteads dot the countryside and vegetation creeps right up to the shoulder of the narrow, somewhat rough pavement. Past Battersea the road straightens but offers a broad view as you descend into Sunbury. Hang a right towards Inverary and enjoy a long hilly curve with a gorgeous view of the valley. At Inverary you can link up with the Perth Road 10 route. Many excellent motorcycle roads radiate like spokes from the pretty town of Westport. Road 36 is one of the better northbound routes, leading the rider through terrific curves. Not all the corners are well marked and there is a single-lane wooden bridge hidden along the way. The last few kilometres until the intersection with Hwy 7 used to be a little choppy, but were repaved and much improved in 2006. From Hwy 7, Road 36 resumes after a left-right jog through the town of Maberly and joins up with the Ompah Stomp route.

There are a couple of alternatives along the way. First up as you leave Westport is Road 12 heading west. This route has some rather dull sections but there’s an incredible stretch around Wolfe Lake that is well worth the price of admission. Between Salem and Fermoy, Road 8 slams around a rapid succession of peg-scraping S-curves. This slalom course has 100-foot cliffs hugging the road on one side and water lapping the shoulder on the other. Oh what fun it is to ride….! The other alternative, about 10 km north of Westport, is Crow Lake Road. This road offers more continuous entertainment than Road 12/8; however, there are a few sandy spots and some bumps so stay alert. Either of these two routes to Rd 38 puts you in the general vicinity of the town of Parham and Mountain Grove Road. Mountain Grove looks impressively squiggly on the official Ontario road map, but in reality its curves are punctuated by rather straight sections.

Ottawa Area

“Parkway Promenade” conjures up visions of ladies with white frilly parasols strolling down the boulevard. Locals just call it the River Road, or Rd 1. The widening of the Ottawa River called Lac Des Chats (Lake of Cats) is never far from the road which slinks past small towns, farms and vacation homes. West of Castleford, the road turns into a roller coaster of bends carving through the forested hills. Rd 4 makes a spectacular descent to the river and Hwy 653 takes you across the Chenaux hydroelectric dam, with a great view of the Ottawa River, into Quebec. Note Rd 1 was recently renumbered. It used to be Rd 3. Also most of the roads in the area have been given names in preparation for 911 emergency service, which makes it easier to navigate. In Canada, Britain and several other places around the world, the Conservative political party is also known as the Tory party. Our

journey begins in Tory Hill, halfway between Bancroft and Haliburton on Hwy 121. In 1885, the postmaster was one of only two Tory supporters in a staunchly Liberal settlement. Since the postmaster was often called upon to name a new town he joked that it should be called Tory Hill since he lived on top of a nearby hill. An election campaign was underway and the Liberal who was canvassing door to door declared that he “had yet to meet a righteous man in that area”, so they must indeed be a bunch of Tories. With both sides in agreement, the name Tory Hill became official! Leaving colourful politics behind, Hwy 121 is an excellent ribbon of pavement leading from Tory Hill towards Haliburton. Traffic can be heavy on weekends but the picturesque tight bends around Loon Lake are worthwhile at any pace. A few kilometres before Haliburton, turn left onto Buckhorn Lake Road 3. Essentially a cottage access route, there is much less traffic and lots of entertaining twisties as you loop back to Hwy 503. At Hwy 503, jog left and then right onto Hwy 507 at Gooderham. This town was named in 1873 after the founder of the Gooderham and Worts distillery made a large donation to build a local church, although local legend says it was named in honour of a drunken bash resulting from the donation of free whisky to local hotels. In the mid-1800’s it took the government a decade to build what is now Hwy 507, hacking through forbidding granite outcroppings, endless swamps and bush. Soil for farming was meager and of all the colonization roads, this was one of the least used. In fact, the original corduroy log roadbed still lies under the winding pavement. To this day the population is very sparse. The area seems popular with Harleys and other cruisers, perhaps drawn by the deep tradition behind the route. Almost every road southeast of Barry’s Bay is worth exploring on a motorcycle. Beginning the tour at Foymount, at the end of the

15 – The Motorcycle Times, August 2012

Opeongo Road tour, you follow Hwy 515 south through endless excellent curves. On your right, Lyndock Baptist Church perches atop a ridge. I don’t know why they don’t replace the stained glass with picture windows. Their view of rocky promontories, hills and valleys could be straight out of a Scottish Highlands tourist brochure, and the church’s stone fence line could be Hadrian’s Wall. At Quadeville, Hwy 515 turns left but you don’t. Keep straight onto Letter Kenney Rd. It is rumoured that Chicago mobster Al Capone spent his final years in a cabin on this road, which offers a roller coaster ride and a great view just past Welk Rd. The latter half could be renamed “Kitty Litter Rd” given the amount of sand on the crown and shoulders, but it’s worth it to reach the little public beach up in the mountains by Gorman Lake, on your right. If you exit from Wilno Rd onto Hwy 60/62 eastbound, check out the homemade desserts, grilled maple marinated salmon or Texas Grill at the Wilno Station Inn. Further east you pass St. Mary’s church with another million dollar view (and more stained glass). Take the time to turn right at the picnic area/blue historical plaque signs and visit Shrine Hill which offers a great lookout on a clear day. The sign marks Canada’s first Polish settlement in 1864. Backtrack west on Hwy 60/62 to Wilno Rd (at this end it’s called Hagarty Sherwood Town Line) just past the Wilno Station Inn, and follow the directions below to Hopefield Rd. This is a great motorcycle road and features a long sandy public beach, complete with washrooms, and yet deserted when visited on a most warm Friday afternoons. Continuing along Hopefield Rd. you end up at a T-intersection. The right turn is an excellent, freshly paved route winding past several lakes into Barry’s Bay. The left turn takes you past some interesting Polish shrines and camps. The road emerges unmarked, opposite the Combermere Home Care Building Centre. The road from Combermere to Rockingham looks good on the map and starts with some interesting muskeg-like, rocky swamp areas. However the road is boring and featureless, and gaps in the pavement are filled with loose dirt. Stone buildings dominate Perth streetscapes, and dating from 1816 it is one of the oldest towns in Ontario. Scottish stonemasons who constructed the Rideau Canal, a military supply route between Kingston and Ottawa, settled in the area and used their skills to build the many granite edifices here. Heading north from Perth on Highway 511, the road is rather tame as it passes Balderson, renowned for its Canadian cheese. Next comes Lanark, the self-appointed maple syrup capital of Ontario. Just as you’re about to lose hope over the road’s motorcycling potential, you pass Hopetown (pardon the pun) and things begin to get interesting. You enter 40km of awesome sweepers, tight corners, and elevation changes that ease you into a zen-like rhythm. In a couple of turns, slippery tar strips require adjusting your line on a hot or wet day to assure traction, and there is sometimes a slick coating of gypsum dust at Tatlock Rd. Otherwise the surface is bowling green smooth and traffic is very light almost all the way to the end of the line at Calabogie. The Scots had their influence here as well, naming the village after a drink made from rum and molasses. If you are coming from Ottawa, pick up the best part of Hwy 511 by coming down March Road 49 (formerly Highway 44). Pass through Almonte where it changes to Wolf Grove Rd 16 and emerges at Hopetown. A right turn here will take you to the twisty bits. Do you have a favorite Ontario Road just waiting to be experienced by a fellow bike riding enthusiast? Log into our Facebook page and post the route you’d like to share. We’ll never run out of beautiful roads in this province, just time to experience them all.

Model shown with optional accessories

The spiriT of advenTure reinvenTed.

SE Model shown

2012 v-sTrom 650 aBs. The advenTure never ends. Specifications, product features and colours are subject to change without notice. PDI, Freight and administration fees apply. PDI charges from $220 to $528 and freight charges from $160 to $208 are extra dependent on model. Read your owners manual carefully and always wear a helmet and protective gear when operating your Suzuki motorcycle and remember to observe all safety regulations. Be responsible, take a rider training course and always respect the environment. See your participating Authorized Suzuki dealer for complete details. Suzuki. Way of Life.

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August 2012, The Motorcycle Times – 16

FinishLines Majority of AMRAChampion, DAKAR Demo Fleet Stolen

Cyril Despres, is coming to Canada!

With a big thanks to Red Bull, 4-time Dakar Rally Champion, Cyril Despres, is attending Orange CRUSH! An incredible two-wheel athlete, Despres is not only a serious racer but one who enjoys a fun, laidback ride with friends. His goal isn’t to win the event, but more so to interact with Canadian fans and tour the beautiful Quebec countryside.

Photo by Bob Szoke

Jordan Szokes takes Thrilling Third Round Win SHUBENACADIE, N.S. (July 22, 2012) – Jordan Szoke passed Jodi Christie on the final lap and hung on to win a thrilling third round of the Mopar Canadian Superbike Championship at Atlantic Motorsport Park on Sunday. The Brantford, Ont. rider took advantage of a slight miscue by Christie as they entered the back straight for the final time, and then held off the Keene, Ont. rider by just 0.230 secs. for his second straight victory this season on the Waznie Racing / Parts Canada / BMW Motorrad Canada BMW S1000RR. Christie matched his career high with second place on the Jodi Christie Racing / Accelerated Technologies Honda CBR600RR and Frank Trombino was just 0.385 secs. back in third riding the Acme Slate / Dua Bodywork / G Suspension Suzuki GSX-R600. Szoke completed the 14 laps around AMP’s 2.56km (1.6-mile), 11-turn road course in 16 minutes, 5.075 seconds for an average speed of 133.693km/h (80.216 mph). “I knew Jodi was going to be tough today,” said Szoke after his sixth career national Su-

perbike win at AMP. “I thought he’d be the one to beat. I was lining him up to try something on the last lap and got a break.” With the victory Szoke extended his lead in the Mopar Canadian Superbike Championship standings to 35 points over Andrew Nelson, who finished sixth on Sunday. Szoke has 151 points to Nelson’s 116 at the halfway point of the six-race season. After claiming his third straight pole position of the season in qualifying on Saturday, Szoke was only third off the line at the start of the race behind Trombino and the Nelson Racing / Endras Motorrad / mcn.tv BMW S1000RR of Kars, Ont.’s Nelson. Nelson took the lead from Trombino on lap four and Szoke also got the Suzuki rider a lap later. He then took the lead from Nelson in turn two on lap seven. “I didn’t get a good start, but you’ve got to be patient around here,” said Szoke, who is looking for an eighth Canadian Superbike title. “I just tried to settle in and pick off guys where I could.”

O’Hara holds on to Win at Daytona DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (July 20, 2012) - Still smarting from a pair of successive last-lap defeats at the hands of rival Kyle Wyman (KLR Group/Vesrah Racing), Bartel’s Harley-Davidson’s Tyler O’Hara got his revenge on Sunday at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course by claiming his third AMA Pro Vance & Hines XR1200 Series victory of the season in similarly clutch fashion. Prior to the race, however, neither O’Hara nor Wyman appeared to be the man to beat. Rather it was veteran roadracer Michael Barnes on the MOB Racing Harley-Davidson XR1200. After struggling to find the lead pace in his first outing with his new team at Barber Motorsports Park, Barnes came out swinging at Mid-Ohio. His suspension woes sorted, Barnes

topped the opening free practice and stormed to pole. However, as typically happens in Vance & Hines XR1200 Series racing, qualifying goes out the window at the green light and Barnes found himself caught up in the mix with O’Hara and Wyman as they’ve done so many times already this season. Barnes sat behind O’Hara for the majority of the contest and appeared to be biding his time, but his plans were upset when Wyman came by on the final lap. The youngster then set out after O’Hara but the Californian once again proved too strong on the brakes and eventually nipped him at the flag by a narrow 0.135 second margin, with Barnes just 0.352 seconds off the victory in third.

Own racing history. Help racing’s future.

Special auction to benefit Gary Nixon Memorial Fund On August 5, 2011, the world of motorcycle road racing lost one of its most iconic and celebrated champions in Gary Nixon. For one week only, starting Friday, July 27, visit eBay to bid on the one-of-a-kind Gary Nixon replica leathers, helmet, pit shirt and Daytona 675R bodywork, as used by Team Latus Motors Racing at the 2012 Daytona 200. Fully approved by the Nixon family, 100% of the auction proceeds go to the Gary Nixon Memorial Fund. Set up specifically to help aspiring racers fulfill their dreams, the Gary Nixon Memorial Fund is a fitting continuation of the racing spirit that Gary Nixon lived every day of his life. To honor the memory of Nixon, on March 12, 2012, AMA Pro Road Racer Jason DiSalvo took the grid at the Daytona 200

wearing specially-designed Gary Nixon replica leathers and helmet. His Team Latus Motors Racing Daytona 675R also featured custom Gary Nixon replica paint and graphics, inspired by Nixon’s 1967 Daytona 200-winning Triumph 500. Even the Team Latus pit crew got in the act, sporting crew shirts styled after those worn by the 1960s Nixon Triumph teams. Despite grueling heat and a crowded field, DiSalvo ran an extraordinary race that day, making up nearly 26 seconds in only 25 laps and ultimately finishing second in a photo finish. DiSalvo was quoted after the race as saying the memory of Nixon was with him the whole way, pushing him to the finish line. Visit the Gary Nixon Memorial Fund seller’s page to bid now.

It is with great pleasure that KTM Canada Inc. announces the first ever Orange CRUSH Adventure Ride! Organized by Marc Fontaine, who has a history of promoting and organizing excellent dual sport events, Orange CRUSH is expected to be something Canadian riders have yet to experience. Scheduled to take place on September 7 to 9, 2012, Orange CRUSH is to be a friendly but competitive dual sport rally. Teams are made up of three riders and the event is open to all makes and models (IE 350 EXCF, 690 Enduro and 990 Adventure). With a big thanks to Red Bull, 4-time Dakar Rally Champion, Cyril Despres, is attending Orange CRUSH! An incredible two-wheel athlete, Despres is not only a serious racer but one who enjoys a fun, laidback ride with friends. His goal isn‚Äôt to win the event, but more so to interact with Canadian fans and tour the beautiful Quebec countryside. Orange CRUSH begins in the Old Port of Montreal on Friday morning and goes to Parent in Haute Maurice. Most of this section involves asphalt with several ‚“Spe-

cial‚“ tests laid out along the way. The caravan will then head to more challenging Adventure: gravel roads leading to the famous village of Parent, a classic stop in Quebec. To satisfy riders of all abilities, the course is split into two routes. Following this, riders will be treated to a demonstration of Despres’ skills on his KTM Rally 450! Day two begins with a course catering very well to dual sport riders. Higher levels of concentration are needed to quickly and efficiently make your way through the marked trails. Later that evening, when everyone arrives in La Tuque, the winning teams are to be honoured with a special awards ceremony while all riders are treated to food, drinks and live music! For those seeking additional challenges, Sunday is devoted to various demonstrations to prove a riders true skill. Orange CRUSH Adventure is open to riders of all skill and types. Novice or a seasoned pro‚Äîyou‚Äôre more than welcome to join. Come, experience an unforgettable weekend and ride alongside 2012 Dakar Rally champion, Cyril Despres!

17 – The Motorcycle Times, August 2012

Canadian

Brett McCormick

Back on Track The production-based racing series arrives at Silverstone for the tenth round of the World Superbike Championship, on the historic track that has been the theater of epic motor battles. The Liberty Racing Team will be at the start with Kuba Smrz and Maxime Berger. The British appointment will be for team Effenbert a great emotion moment, in fact the Czech team, will meet after 3 months of forced stop, the young and talented Canadian rider Brett McCormick, victim, during the Dutch round at Assen, of a bad injury. The Silverstone race will represent for McCormick a “racing test” after 90 days of inactivity. His determination, passion and innate competitive mood will be the winning ingredients of the return to competition of the Canadian, who in order to get back on his Ducati 1198R followed, day after day, intensive rehabilitation therapy. “It has been tough to sit out for this much of the season.” said Brett McCormick -- “Obviously with such a serious injury you don’t have a choice, but it’s still really hard to sit at home on the couch and watch the races from the sidelines. It got a lot more difficult once I was healed enough to move around and start being active because you are always anxious to come back earlier than you should. The last few weeks have been awesome though! I was able to start riding my motocross bike and train a lot harder, so I’m really hungry to get back on the track now. From a medical point of view I’m 100% recovered. The last X-rays I got done were a couple of weeks ago and they showed that the bone was fused back nicely and enough to start taking impact. It’s been a couple of weeks since then, so every passing day it strengthens even more. My thumb was a big worry also because it was such an ugly break, but the surgeon did an awesome job and it healed up completely normal. I’m just happy to wake up every morning and be able to get out of bed to walk around. Breaking your neck is a pretty big eye opener, and you definitely appreciate the little things a lot more from it. I’ve been lucky to have the summer months to recover, because I’ve been able to bicycle every day and now ride Motocross. Now I’m just counting down the days until I get back overseas to race again. I’m beyond excited about getting back on the Effenbert Liberty Ducati! I’ve missed it a lot, and I was only just getting to know it in Assen. Hopefully we can pick up where we left off! I’m really excited to get back and see the team too, they’ve all been amazing these past few months so it will be nice to see some familiar smiles”.

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August 2012, The Motorcycle Times – 18

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“We do not remember days; we remember moments.” — Cesare Pavese, The Burning Brand

There are some things we never meant to store in our brains and yet, there they are: Words to songs we never intended on learning; things we saw that we’d rather forget; people who haunt our dreams. And then there are the moments when no matter how much we wish things were different, our memories fail us: people we’ve known for a while and yet can’t seem to remember their name; a loved one passed on, whose laughter we can still hear and whose smile we can still see but both are beginning to fade into the shadows of our mind; our very own past begins to become more difficult to recall as we move into our future and the aging process becomes something more than simply aging in years. American writer and activist, Barbara Kingsolver, once commented, “It’s surprising how much of memory is built around things unnoticed at the time.” Unnoticed, or perhaps even more accurately, ‘unextraordinary’. Ordinary moments that become extraordinary memories forever etched in our minds. It’s amazing how the mind works, isn’t it. I had one of those moments earlier this summer, and I’m still smiling. In fact, even when I try not to, I’m smiling. I’ve had people ask me if I have some little secret going on in my world or if something specific has happened to cause me to be in such a state of ‘glow’. Truth be told, it wasn’t anything more than spending part of a Saturday afternoon on the back of a friend’s Harley Davidson Softail Classic – my first time ever on a motorcycle. I’m sure the beginning of our journey wasn’t altogether pretty. The windbreaker I had brought along to wear made quite the racket in the wind. I kept forgetting not to lean in too close, so although it sounds rather naughty, the ‘bucket bumping’ that took place is something that neither one of us enjoyed very much. My eyes were watering in the wind, my nose was running and I was worried the whole time that I was going to do something wrong and either embarrass myself or make him regret his decision to bring me along. We ended up stopping at a great little out-of-the-way place to pick up some gear, and I left with a new helmet, a pair of gloves and proper riding sunglasses. Climbing back on the bike after that was different. I was still nervous, but I almost felt like I belonged on that seat behind him. “You ready?” he asked. I gave him a ‘thumbs up’. “Where do you want to go now?” I really didn’t care. “I’m yours for the afternoon,” I yelled over the rumble of the bike. “Point her in that direction and let’s

see where she takes us…” He smiled. “Alright then,” he yelled back. “Hold on…here we go!” Baptized by the wind; that’s the only way I can think of to describe it. The noisy windbreaker I had been wearing was now tucked into one of the saddlebags and I started to relax as I felt the cool air on my skin. I paid close attention to what he was doing but I stopped over-thinking everything. I let go and gave myself over to the experience. Ordinary, right? For someone else, maybe. For me, it changed me. I’m not exactly sure how or why. All I know is that it changed me. Forever. You see, I’d never told anyone about my dream about riding or owning a motorcycle; it simply didn’t fit the image and the perception that everyone had of me. I was afraid of getting laughed at or made fun of. I didn’t know how to go about making it happen and I certainly had no idea how much it truly meant to me until I shared it with this one very special friend. He didn’t laugh. He didn’t think I was crazy. In fact, he encouraged me. I was blindsided. It took a few times of him offering and me politely declining his invitation until he asked me simply, “Do you trust me?” After that, the decision was easy. I think that’s why spending that afternoon with my friend had such a significant impact on me. The girl who hugged him goodbye in the parking lot where she had left her car several hours (and a lifetime) before was not the girl he had met for a coffee earlier in the day. My first time on a motorcycle – and that magical moment when the bike almost became like an extension of myself -- was one of those moments that is now one of those ordinary-into-extraordinary memories. I will never forget that day. I can only dream for now, of what it will feel like when I throw a leg over and twist the throttle of my very own ride. From this girl’s ‘training wheels’ perspective, you can make a difference in another person’s life and not realize it, just by giving them one moment of your time, one memory to recall, one word that lets them know their dream is worth pursuing. Think back to the first time you rode. Do you remember how it felt? Do you still feel the same way? Do you remember when you fell in love with everything it means to you to ride? “We all have our time machines. Some take us back, they’re called memories. Some take us forward, they’re called dreams,” says British actor Jeremy Irons. Why am I smiling now? Oh, I’m just wondering how my friend would feel knowing that his Harley is also a time machine….

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19 – The Motorcycle Times, August 2012

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August 2012, The Motorcycle Times – 20

BUSINESS PROFILE

So, you think you can ride? Even old dogs will learn a thing or two about controlled riding on two wheels. by BRENT WAKEFORD Contributing Writer, TMT How do you rate your skill at riding? Are you a novice, intermediate or advanced rider? Have you taken a course, competed or just learned by doing? Twenty some odd years ago, I took Motorman training and learned everything from slow manoeuvring to high speed riding techniques. I’ve been in the saddle now, almost 35 years and although most was self taught, I rate myself as a superior rider, I found out that there is still much more I can learn. They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks but this past weekend proved that old adage wrong, woof, woof. I had the opportunity to join TMT staff members and recent contest winners from our subscriber’s list in an adventure to beautiful St. Thomas to meet up with J.P. Mc Ardle of Professional Motorcycle Training. JP McArdle served 6 years in the US Marines as a combat veteran. Upon release he joined the Metropolitan Police Department for Washington DC. He spent 20 years in various units/roles such as the FBI Homicide Task Force, Motorcycle Officer and was assigned to the Presidential Escort Team as the lead motor officer.

JP has attended various schools and courses for motorcycle training since 1990. Some of these schools have included: Motorcycle Safety Foundation Maryland State, North Miami, IPTM, Jacksonville Florida, North Western University, Illinois, Virginia, BMW (Germany), and most recently the Ministry of Transportation. JP has a genuine desire and passion for teaching motorcycle riding. He successfully created and implemented a very successful police motorcycle training program for Deeley Harley Davidson Canada before recently signing on with Victory Police motorcycles. His training program continues to expand and flourish with students attending worldwide. During the winter months, he is on hand to teach in the sunnier States of the US with a focus on advanced riding techniques. JP has attended the Ministry of Transportation Motorcycle signing authority program, and tested and certified over 25 police personnel last summer. JP is also a recognized expert witness for motorcycling both within Canada and the USA. JP is very modest; however he has been a seven time international overall police motorcycle champion. He continues to spread the

word of safety while riding and focuses on saving lives through education and knowledge. He is proud to hold dual citizenship with Canada and the USA and currently resides permanently in St Thomas Ontario. If you have ever watched those you tube videos on the precision riding teams or the competitions where the riders do hairpin turns and figure eights in obstacle courses, this is one of those guys. Now he’s here to teach you. Friday evening found this writer riding to London to pop in on leather vendor Crazy Al, where I managed to finally find a helmet that fits, one that doesn’t sit on my head like a jack-o-lantern, one that doesn’t feel like the weight of a bowling ball, but a nice “legal” half shell that just fits like it was designed for my head. From there I headed into St. Thomas for a great buffet meal at The Wayside down on Sunset Drive and an early night in a local motel in anticipation for a long intensive training session Saturday morning. I came into this course, not cocky, high on the horse or feeling better then other riders, even with the years under my belt that I have, but I had confidence, assurance and thought, I can achieve whatever he can throw at me. I mean, hell ya, it’s been twenty years since

my formal training but I remember it all and practice many of the techniques on a daily basis when I ride, so really, it’s just a refresher course for me. Boy, I couldn’t be more wrong. After five minutes of watching J.P. manoeuvre a big 850 pound Victory Cross Country, fully loaded with police equipment, around that parking lot like a mini bike, I knew, there is much more here then just a memory jog. That’s where the interesting part comes in. I was taught by a pro, a legend in the industry, but as J.P started to explain the techniques, the principles and how-to-do’s, I had to question why I was taught differently. Well, hold onto your seats new and veteran riders cause this may open your eyes. Years ago many riders like myself, were taught on older motorcycles, bikes of the time and they were much less technology advanced compared to what we have now. The centre of gravity was different, the engine placement not as forward, the braking, clutches, seats, wheelbase, all have since changed. The motorcycle Pro’s of today are now demonstrating and teaching on late model bikes with advanced technology and it’s a whole new world. Unfortunately, many of the training courses and facilities out there are still instructing either outdated skills or on outdated equipment, so beware where you take your rider training and what equipment you are being trained on. After a brief demonstration of what these bikes can actually do with a trained rider aboard, we started off with the basics. First thing to learn is; how to pick-up any size bike from the ground. It didn’t matter what size you are, if done right, anyone can upright a falling bike with practice. It’s all in the technique, not the back, not the upper body strength but in the legs. Even the smallest of girls in this class up-righted an 850 lb. motorcycle right in front of our eyes. Next, we moved onto to learning your clutch, the grey zone or sweet spot is paramount in controlling your machine. Once that is mastered, it’s on to accelerator and again finding that sweet spot. It’s easy to find once you know what you are listening for. So, after you’ve achieved your sweet spots, learned how to position your body in the seat, how to control your arms in the turns, where to look in the corners, then you’re ready to go. Well, maybe not that quick. Although it may sound a bit overwhelming and a lot of knowledge to absorb, it really is not. J.P. and his trusty sidekick Tanya were awesome, patient teachers and walked everyone through it at all levels and stages. We advanced throughout the day as a group and accomplished something thought to be unreachable. We really were on our way to becoming advanced riders in such a short period of time. With continued practice, I know every one of those riders there took a lot of skill away with them at the end of the day and it will go a long way in protecting them on the street and assisting them in slow turn manoeuvres. J.P doesn’t just teach you how to scrape your boards in the corners, there is a lot more to it. He simulated ABS braking systems for those not so equipped and taught each of us how to safely control the motorcycle in a lock up: a valuable lesson that I actually used twice the following day when caught in torrential downpours in a hydroplane situation, while coming home. So, if you want to learn to control your motorcycle safely, be able to turn within an 18 foot space, run the pylon obstacle courses like a pro, this really is the course for you. Check out J.P.`s website at www.promotorcycletraining.com and the video segments on www.victorypolicemotorcyles.com You truly will be amazed!

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August 2012, The Motorcycle Times – 22

EVENTS Check our new online EVENTS section. Monthly Calendar format with Google Map support and it’s printable. www. themotorcycletimes.ca for the full list of events!

unwrapped Toy or Cash Donation. Various Trophies, 50/50, door prizes. A good day for all and all for a good cause...children. Contact for info: dalyn8@ sympatico.ca or 705-340-5656.

August 3-4, 2012 Ride With The Pack Rally Fri 4:00pm-11:00pm ,Sat Noon -11pm. Strathcona Center Napanee On. Friday night DJ and meet and greet with beer tent and camping (limited space). Saturday 3 rides through Napanee and L&A county with live bands, vendors, bike games, biker breakfast ,live music and beer tent. Mark Brooks flamevtx@gmail.com.

August 18, 2012 Riders Against Hunger Registration 9am, ride 10am. Start at Eden Community Food Bank 2-3185 Unity Drive. Minimum of $35 in tax receiptable donations to the food bank per participant, on-line registration is available. It is a signed, three hour poker run-style ride covering some of the most scenic roads north of Mississauga. Breakfast is provided during registration and lunch at the end venue. Contact Bill bill. crawford@edenfoodbank.org 905-785-3651x4, www.ridersagainsthunger.org.

August 11, 2012 Chapman’s Ride To A Cure $20 per rider. Visit www.chapmansridetoacure.com.Tim - tim@chapmansridetoacure. com, 905-512-3590. August 12, 2012 Ride for Sick Kids $40 per rider & $25passenger. This is our 4th annual ride for Sickkids Hospital. Our ride is an Approx 175km, Police escorted ride from Mackie Harley Davidson , taking a scenic route along Lake Scouge and ending up in Port Perry, Palmer Park where the streets are closed off to house our celebration. Light breakfast, lunch provided by Shoeless Joe’s, entertainment and prizes. Every rider gets a chance to win a 2012 HD sportster. Additional ballots given for every $100 raised. Tax receipts given for $10 and up. Online fundraising available at www.rideforsickkids.com. Contact Nella Figliano 416-895-5215. August 12, 2012 Victoria’s And Amy’s Toy Ride Shelter for Abused women and their Children. All Toys/Cash go to the Children and Children’s programs. Riverwood Park, Lindsay. Coffee and Donuts Free at 10am. Music entertainment starts at 11am. Cost new

August 18, 2012 Iron Pony Ride Calumet College/York University , 4700 Keele St., Toronto, (Library Parking Lot), 10am-3pm - Registration 9:30am, $25 per rider. Along with the predetermined Poker Ride, there will be a Silent Auction, Draw Table, Morning coffee and snacks, Bar-B-Que lunch, Swag bags, and Prizes. Paula Putman sdirector@anduhyaun.org,416 920-1492x222, anduhyaun.org - click on tab; Iron Pony Ride. August 19, 2012 The WROAR Ride - Women Ride Out Against Rape We ask riders to raise $100 in donations, Fundraising ride for the Toronto Rape Crisis Centre/ Multicultural Women Against Rape. Visit www.wroar.com for more detailed information. September 5, 2012 London Toy Ride Registration 10am, Ride leaves 11:30am and a free lunch, Share the Wealth Draw, Door Prizes and Music 1pm at ride destination. Register at Home Depot, London east store. Cost a New Unwrapped Toy or

GOT AN EVENT?

Send your event listing to: scott@themotorcycletimes.ca

$20 per bike, riders are more than welcome to bring addititonal toys or donations if they choose. All the toys that are collected, along with donations and corporate donations which are used to purchase addititonal toys, are given to the Salvation Army for distribution to underprivelleged children through the Christmas Hamper Program each year. Stephen & Diana Brighton sbrighton@rogers.com, www. londontoyride.ca. September 9, 2012 4th Annual Kaitlin Bolton Memorial Motorcycle Charity Poker Run Hosted by the Knights of Columbus Council No. 8851. Registration: 8:30am-10am. Cost $25. per person or $100 in sponsorships. Join us for a new scenic route. Gift bag for the first 100 riders. All riders in by 3pm. Orangeville Curling Club - 76 Fifth Avenue, Orangeville, ON. Proceeds will benefit local charities including the Bolton Family. $1000.winning hand! For more information please visit our website www. kofc8851.ca. September 14-15, 2012 Ride of Flags & Biketoberfest Ride of the Flags Sept 14, Friday evening with the “Ride of the Flags”, beginning at The Original Clare’s Motorcycles on Highway 20 at Maple St. Biketoberfest Sat, Sept 15 Our 10th Annivesary at Centennial Park 999 Church Street in Fenwick from 9am - 6pm. Activities on Saturday begin with breakfast at 9:00 and include motorcycle displays, show and shine, clothing and parts vendors, swap meet, great food and beverages and live entertainment and 2012 HarleyDavidson® CVO™ Streetglide® draw will take place at 6 p.m. Information and tickets for the draw are available at: www. biketoberfest.ca, www.fabulousfenwicklions.org, info@ fabulousfenwicklions.org.

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Safety Scene CHRIS VAN TILBORG Contributing Writer, TMT

7 DEADLY MISTAKES Making mistakes is part of every day life. Everyone makes them. But motorcycle riders can make some deadly one’s. As a beginner or re-entry rider, here are some mistakes to avoid. Avoiding these mistakes will enhance your riding experience and improve your survival odds. All of them are real and all of them can be deadly. Mistake #1: BUYING A MOTORCYCLE BEFORE -This can cost you more than money. Many beginner’s or re-entry riders buy what they want (dream bike), only to find out later that either they can’t ride or it’s not for them. Or they dropped it or something has happened and now they are scared of the bike and it sits in the garage. Wait to purchase a bike till after you have taken a Motorcycle Safety Course. Mistake #2: SKIP THE MOTORCYCLE COURSE -- This can cost you more than you think. These courses are taught by professionals who have many years of riding experience under their butts and they are continually upgrading their skills. Their knowledge and skills are taught to you to help make you safer riders on the road. After the course you will have all the necessary skills to get you started as a motorcycle rider. Then it is your job to take the skills taught and practice them. And no they don’t mean in the middle of traffic. Practice the skills taught in a empty parking lot close to home, avoid peak times and high traffic areas. Mistake #3: THINKING YOU ARE A GOOD RIDER -If you were smart enough not to make mistake # 1&2, bet your thinking you passed the course and now away I go. Remember you were taught on a 125 or 250cc motorcycle in a controlled closed environment. You have only been riding a maximum of 90 days. Lets break that down into reality riding (average): 90 days = 2160 hours 1000 hours (Dusk-Dawn + Sleeping) - 520 hours work (Mon-Fri) - 225 hours miscellaneous stuff (driving to and fro, cooking, kids soccer, the honey do list etc...) = 415 hours which is actually only 17.5 days. You get my point. Mistake #4: BUYING THE WRONG BIKE -- Peer pressure (friends, family, experienced riders,

brand riders etc...) among other things tend to influence your decision. It’s a myth that you will grow into it, NO you won’t, you’re past puberty; You can handle it, do you really want someone else making that decision for you. Your first motorcycle should be a “starter” motorcycle, 250 to 500cc. It is light weight, easier to handle and less expensive. Keep in mind that you wouldn’t buy your riding jacket 3 sizes too big, so make sure the bike fits you as well. Use the smaller bike to practice your skills. As with everything there is a learning curve. For some it’s faster than others but ride it for at least one full season anyway. After that, you should have enough experience to make an informed purchase. Mistake #5: OUTRIDING YOUR SKILL LEVEL -- New riders aren’t even sure what their skill level actually is, let alone when they are out riding it. If you don’t know your skill level, find out but not on the roads. Test the limits of your skills by setting up a small obstacle course in an empty parking lot (closed environment). There are also many other professional courses you can take to improve/ enhance your riding skills. Don’t let your skill level make you a statistic. Mistake #6: TAKING A PASSENGER -- Although there is no restriction on your license that says you can’t carry a passenger if your motorcycle is equipped, it is not recommended. Carrying a passenger is a big responsibility, and at this point you have enough to deal with keeping yourself safe. Your knowledge, experience, and skill level up to this point should tell you not to but if you need some reinforcement go back and re-read this article. It can be a life and death mistake for both! Mistake #7: NOT LOOKING WHERE YOU WANT TO GO -- Many people do this in general in their everyday lives, they end up thwarting their own goal-acheivements because they focus too hard on the task at hand. Looking far enough ahead where you want to go allows you to see any/all obstacles, then your brain and body automatically plan how to get there. The proof is in the exercise. Look ahead at the apex of a curve and you will track right there. Look at that tree on the side of the road and hello tree.

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23 – The Motorcycle Times, August 2012

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August 2012, The Motorcycle Times – 24

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Discover the joy of motorcycling in revolutionary style with compartment capable of holding a full-faced helmet or a Honda’s all-new NC700X and NC700S. Each featuring a laptop. A full lineup of accessories compliments both models, Combined System with ABS, the S styling leans allowing for extended adventures and increased cargo Rethink theBraking motorcycling experience at honda.ca/NC700 towards the urban rider and the X has a slightly more aggressive capacity. With incredible fuel range (approximately 400 kms per look to inspire the adventure seeker. The 14.1 L fuel tank resides tank) the NC700 series is the perfect combination of weekday under the rider, providing superb, low centre-of-gravity. The practicality and weekend adventure. Contact your local HONDA dealer for more information, pricing and any special offers. unique fuel tank placement allows for a spacious 21 L storage

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