The Motorcycle Times - December 2016

volume 7 | issue 11

DECEMBER 2016

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MOTORCYCLE NEWS

Ducati Debut Four New Motorcycles Mix - 0/35/85/0

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2017 Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled

2017 Ducati 1299 Superleggera

2017 Ducati Multistrada 950

2017 Ducati SuperSport

The Rebel was one of the most popular entry-level cruisers of the 1980s, and now Honda has given it a new lease of life with a brand new model in two engine versions.

With either a 500 cc parallel twin or a 300 cc single, the new Rebel is an affordable cruiser designed for efficient commuting.

For a whole generation of motorcycle riders the name Rebel probably rekindles fond memories of a time when the original

Honda Revives Rebel

CMX250C cruiser was a prime choice for entry into the world of motorcycles. Introduced in 1985 with the Nighthawk’s 250 cc in-line twin, the Rebel remained in production for several years providing trouble-free commuting services and an excellent base for customizing throughout the 1990s.

When Honda decided to resurrect the historic name, its lineup offered a variety of ready-to-use solutions. The new Rebel

may be formally called CMX500H after its predecessor, but starts its second life as part of the CB500 model family, powered by the proven 471 cc, 45 hp (33.5 kW) liquidcooled parallel twin engine with a reputation for reliability and fuel efficiency. Honda reveals that the motor is carried over from the sporty CBR500R, obviously retuned for punchier low and mid-range performance.

CONTINUED ON P.03 The announced

December 2016, The Motorcycle Times – 2

/// 2015 – 2016

/// 2015 – 2016

YAMAHA’S

SUMM ER FALL YAMAHA’S WHEELS ROLL OUT SUMM ER SALES EVENT WHEELS

Purchase a new, unused 2015 or 2016 Yamaha cruiser and be eligible to receive:

UP TO

TO 31, 2016. Visit yamaha-motor.ca to viewINdeals GENUINE Offer endsUP December on all Yamaha motorcycles.

YAMAHAPARTS & ACCESSORIES *

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1,200 $ 1,200 $

IN GENUINE YAMAHAPARTS Purchase a new, unused 2015 or 2016 Yamaha cruiser and be eligible to* receive: & ACCESSORIES

BENNETT POWERSPORTS 801 Brock St., Whitby 905-430-6360 or 1-888-430-6360 www.bennettpowersports.com

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Some conditions apply. See your participating dealer for complete details or visit our website. *Offer valid on certain new, unused 2015 or 2016 Yamaha cruisers. Total bonus dependent on model selected.

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/// YAMAHA-MOTOR.CA

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/// YAMAHA-MOTOR.CA

Honda Revives Rebel performance specs are almost identical to those of the CBR in peak values, but we should expect a torque curve beefed-up all the way to the 6,000 rpm maximum of 44.6 Nm (32.9 lb-ft). Honda makes no mention of changes to the ratios of the six-speed gearbox though, suggesting that the transmission has not been altered at all.

Rolling on thick 16 inch tires, the steel diamond frame has been redesigned for a 28 degree caster angle, 110 mm (4.3 in) trail, 1488 mm (58.6 in) wheelbase, with the seat settling down to 690 mm (27.2 in). In ready-to-ride trim the EUspec Rebel weighs 190 kg (419 lb), while the US version appears on paper to be 5 kg (11 lb) lighter.

Opting for a slim silhouette with clean lines, the motorcycle actually looks like a blank canvas for customizing. A digital touch of practicality in the otherwise classic-looking package.

Honda’s accessories list contains only some very basic bits – like a short screen, rear rack, and saddlebags – although a wider range of gear from third party manufacturers sounds like a very reasonable expectation.

The general spirit of simplicity filters down to the Rebel’s standard equipment.

Its suspensions feature non-adjustable 41 mm conventional forks and a pair of rear

shocks with 2-step preload settings. The front brake employs the same two-piston front caliper as the CBR, gripping a 264 mm (10.4 in) disk, with a single-piston unit at the rear, complemented with a two-channel ABS system.

Its fuel tank has been designed primarily with bobber looks and small dimensions in mind, shrinking to just 11.2 l (3 gal) compared to the 16.7 l (4.4 gal) of the CBR500R. As prudent as it may be in guzzling down fuel, cutting the capacity by almost a third will certainly impact the bike’s range considerably.

Honda also announced a 300 cc version of the new Rebel, built around the 30.4 hp (22.7 kW) liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine of the CBR300R. The smaller model has been confirmed for the US market, while Europe and Australia will only get the 500.

Honda North America has announced that the Rebel 500 will retail for $5,999 and the 300 for $4,399.

Going up against popular motorcycles like the Harley-Davidson Street 500 and Kawasaki Vulcan S, the 2017 Rebel is expected to start shipping in April 2017.

Whether you’re new to the powersports industry or an old-timer, Klotz is one name you can trust. Driven to perform at the highest levels, we race-test every product to make sure it meets the most stringent demands. You can trust Klotz with your favorite bike or ATV and be confident that we’ll take better care of it than any other brand.

Visit us at www.klotzcanada.com Ask for it at your local dealer, Find a local dealer or You can order right online.

3 – The Motorcycle Times, December 2016

CONTINUED FROM COVER

December 2016 , The Motorcycle Times – 4

TwoCents Mix - 0/35/85/0

30%K

The Motorcycle Times is published 11 times a year from Feb thru December.

Motorcycle Times distributes 15,000 free copies for pickup throughout Ontario from our network of Dealerships, Motorcycle related retailers, Motorcycle friendly locations and Subscribers. For more information about becoming a retail associate of The Motorcycle Times email the circulation Department.

scott macdonald EDITOR

Falling for Cold Weather Riding Cold weather, it’s part of our lives. Some of us love it, some of us hate it, some just complain about it but the fact is, if you live in Ontario, you are gonna experience it.

So, if you are reading this, then it’s safe to assume you also ride in this wonderful province. With the cold weather upon us and the riding season draws to a close, some riders continue to resist the need to park their rides hoping for just a few more days of above zero temperatures. I have to admit, although I consider myself a fair weather rider, my bike is still poised and ready for the next chance to ride before the snow covers the ground. But is cold weather riding really a good idea?

Many factors need to be considered before you fire up your trusty steed for another outing like road temperature, ambient air temperature, prevailing winds and the technology that has gone into designing your tires.

First off, before you go anywhere, check the condition of your tires, how much tread is left, any cracking? These are signs that your tires are all but done.

Motorcycle tires are designed to provide maximum grip when their operating temperatures are around 165°F or 74°C. That’s pretty warm by all accounts, and it’s very reasonable to assume that when the weatherman says it’s going to reach a high if 14°C on Tuesday he really means the air temperature will be more

like a cold 10° and that will only last from about 3:30 till quarter to four, so with that in mind, it’s likely to take a lot to get your tires up to proper temperature, unfortunately the fact is you probably won’t even come close, and what heat your tires do generate will dissipate about fifteen seconds after you come to a stop. So, what this means is you will be riding on a much harder compound with less flexibility and much, much less grip. Also check your tires air pressure and adjust accordingly, you can lose as much as one to two pounds of pressure for every 10°C drop in temperature.

For the average Sunday, take-it-down-theroad-to-the-coffee shop-and-back urban winter rider, this may not be a big deal, but if you like the twisties, take warning and approach them with caution, because your tires will not have the grip you expect. Think of it like riding on slick wet pavement, at moderate to low speeds the grip may be acceptable, but on sharp on-ramps and twisty questionable back roads keep your hands off the throttle and your wits about you otherwise you could see yourself getting up-close and personal with the local flora and fauna.

Lets not forget to also consider the vast range in ambient temperature during a late fall ride. Starting out on what would seem like a nice sunny day, don’t be fooled, it could be close to the zero mark when you start out and

warm-up into double digits in the mid afternoon only to drop quickly again once the sun sets. Layering clothing and ensuring what you do wear, has some wind protection will help to keep your core warm. And don’t forget to wear some insulated gauntlet gloves to direct that cool wind from chasing up your sleeves.

At these lower temperatures wind chill is now a serious factor and a chilled rider becomes a dangerous rider not only to himself but to other riders and vehicles on the road.

If you find shivering beginning to take hold, slowdown and seek the nearest location where you can to warm-up as much as you can. The problem is that once you have become chilled, it won’t take much for you to become chilled once again. If you have saddle bags, carry some of those chemical heating pads for instant relief from the cold. If you do make a habit of pushing the riding season to the limits, consider outfitting with some electrically heated riding gear.

Lastly, December marks the final issue of 2016 for The Motorcycle Times, We take a break during January and return back in February to help you get ready for the spring riding season. So on behalf of our staff, writers and advertisers, we would like to extend our Warmest Wishes to you and your families this Holiday Season and we look forward to seeing you again in February.

2O16

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Mail to: 105 West 25th Street, Hamilton ON L9C 4X3

105 West 25th St., Hamilton ON. L9C 4X3 905.962.1890

Mix - 0/35/85/0

30%K

Everybody knows a turkey and some Mistletoe help to make the season bright Tiny tots with their eyes all aglow Will find it hard to sleep tonight They know that Santa’s on his way

HONDA’S FIND MY SUMMER RIDE EVENT! He's loaded lots of toys and goodies WWW.READYHONDAPOWERSPORTS.COM • 430 HENSALL CIRCLE, MISSISSAUGA • SALES DIRECT: 866-819-4116 On his sleigh

FIND MY SUMMER RIDE EVENT!

Honda’s sHift into Red event!

TRANSFER PUMP

BF2.3H HP

$

9799

*

ports.com issauga

19-4116

$

419

*

WB20XK2C

GENERATOR

1 289

$

1 779

$

*

1,399*

389 89

*

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HRS2164PDC DC

$

529

WB20XK2C www.readyhondapowersports.com 430 Hensall Circle, Mississauga

1,999*

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599 9*

T1ParallEl * EU2000i HRR2169VVKCC

$

LaWnMoWEr

, TranSFEr, GEnEraTor puMp EU2000IT1 PARALLEL EG5000

LAWNMOWER $ $

*

$

999

*

2015 CBR300RTA

2015 CBR500R

4,579 2015 $6,269* 2015 CBr300rTa CBr500r $ * $ * *

2016 CBR600RA

869* HrX2175HYYC EG5000$8

13,969

$

*

4,679

2015 CBR1000S And every 2015 * $

2014 VFR800 *

6,369

2016 GL1800BG

15,600

$

2014 GL1800ADE (Airbag)

*

2016 CBr600ra

2016 TRX420FM2

$

29,169 And so, I'm offering this $

HRRX2175HYC

2015 TRX420FA6

* $ know how Reindeer really 12,019 20,169* 2016$toHondaflyTrX500SaG* 9,999 24,169 7,199 $

2014 CTX1300A 2 $ *

mother's

$ see if * Child20,069 is gonna CBr1000S spy to 7,349

11,919 2014 VFr800

$

*

*

2.99%/36 MTHS. PURCHASE FINANCING!

2014 2016 GL1800adE GL1800BGphrase to kids from Simple (airbag) $ * One to ninety-two $ *

2014 CTX1300a $ *

*LICENCE FEE (IF APPLICABLE) AND HST EXTRA ON ALL OFFERS. OFFERS CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFERS, PROGRAMS OR DISCOUNTS AND ARE GOOD UNTIL AUGUST 31, 2016. DOWN PAYMENT OR EQUIVALENT TRADE-IN ON PURCHASE FINANCING MAY BE REQUIRED BASED ON APPROVED CREDIT FROM HONDA FINANCIAL SERVICES INC. SALE PRICE ON THE NEW MOTORCYCLES INCLUDES FREIGHT AND P.D.E., ECRF, LICENCE ADMINISTRATION FEE AND OMVIC FEE. FREIGHT & PDE ($50/$50/$65/$65/$65/$65/$75/$75/$50/$50/$600/$600), ECRF ($0/ $0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$24.86/$24.86) AND LICENCE ADMINISTRATION ($0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$299/$299) ARE ALL EXTRA ON THE FOLLOWING ON THE OTHER PRODUCTS: 2.3DK2SCHC/WB20XK2C/EU2000IT1/EG5000/HRS2164PDC/HRX2175HYC/HRR2169VKC /TRX420FA6/ $ * $ * TRX420FM2). PRICING OF THE POWER EQUIPMENTHS720C MAY INCLUDE A LIMITED TIME REBATE AND DISCOUNT AND THE MOTORCYCLES/ATV’S AS FOLLOWS: CBR300RTA $1,300/CBR500R $1,100/VFR800 $3,500/CBR1000S $1,000/CBR600RA $800/CTX1300A $5,000/ GL1800BG $1,000/ GL1800ADE $3,500/TRX420FA6 $1,750/TRX420FM2 $900. DEALER ORDER/TRADE MAY BE NECESSARY, IF WE RUN OUT OF INVENTORY OF SELECTED MODELS. VEHICLE(S) AND ACCESSORIES SHOWN ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION PURPOSES ONLY. OFFERS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT $ * NOTICE, SEE US FOR FULL DETAILS.

Sales Direct: 866-819-4116

899

3,399

4,999

HSS724CT

15,700

14,069*

$

24,269

EU7000iSC

29,269

KAWASAKI SUMMERTIME SALES EVENT! Altho' it's been said many times

*Licence fee (if applicable) and HST extra on all offers. Offers cannot be combined with any other offers, programs or discounts and are good until November 30, 2016. Down payment or equivalent trade-in on purchase financing may be required based on approved credit from Honda Financial Services Inc. Sale Price on the New Motorcycles includes freight and P.D.E., ECRF, Licence Administration Fee and OMVIC Fee. Freight & PDE ($65/$65/$65/$65/$65/$65/$65/$600), ECRF ($0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$18.50) and Licence Administration ($0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$399) are all extra on the following on the other products: HS720C/HSS724CT/WB20XK2C/EU2000iT1/EG5000/EU7000ISC/ Many ways • $1,100/VFR800 430 HENSALL CIRCLE, MISSISSAUGA • 866-819-4112 HRX2175HYC/TRX500SA6). Pricing of the power equipment may include a limited time rebate and discountWWW.READYKAWASAKI.COM and the Motorcycles/ATV’s as follows: CBR300RTA $1,300/CBR500R $3,500/CBR1000S $1,000/CBR600RA $800/CTX1300A $5,000/ /GL1800BG $1,000/GL1800ADE $3,500/TRX500SA6 $1,000. Dealer order/trade may be necessary, if we run out of inventory of selected models. Vehicle(s) and accessories shown are for illustration purposes only. Offers subject to change without notice, see us for full details.

“Merry Christmas to you”

4YR. K INC.! PP *Vehicle Licence fee (if applicable) and HST extra on all offers. Sale Price on the New Motorcycles includes freight and P.D.E., ECRF, Licence Administration Fee 2015 NINJA 2015 NINJA 2015 2015 2015 2016 2015 and VAQUERO OMVIC Fee. Freight & PDE ($650) and Licence ($399) are all VULCAN 900 NINJA VERSYS ULTRAAdministration 310 LX 300 650 CUSTOM ZX6SE ABS extra1700 on the Ultra 310LX Pricing of the followingJETSKI include a limited time rebate of: 1000LT (NON-ABS) (ABS) $ * $ * www.readykawasaki.com $ * • 430 Hensall $ circle, mississauga * • 877-297-7446 $ * $ VN900CFF $1,000. 48 * Months Kawasaki$Protection Plan is included* at No Charge on the 2015 Ultra 310LX Jetski. 3.9% per annum for 60 months is available on allTHE2016 Kawasaki Motorcycles INCLUDES eg: 2016 ZX6SE ABS $14,369 with ECRF, $2,000 *VEHICLE LICENCE FEE (IF APPLICABLE) AND HST EXTRA ON ALL OFFERS. OFFERS CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFERS, PROGRAMS OR DISCOUNTS AND ARE GOOD UNTIL AUGUST 31, 2016. SALE PRICE ON NEW MOTORCYCLES FREIGHT AND P.D.E., down, amount$1,100/EX650EFF financed $12,369, Payment $268.44, C.O.B. $1,494.43 Total Due LICENCE ADMINISTRATION FEE AND OMVIC FEE. FREIGHT & PDE ($650)2015 AND LICENCE ADMINISTRATION ($299) ARE ALL EXTRA INCLUDE A LIMITED TIME REBATE OF: EX300AFF $1,100/VN900CFF $1,000/ZX636FFFA 2016 2015 ON THE ULTRA 310LX PRICING OF THE FOLLOWING 4Yr. PROTECTION PLAN IS INCLUDED VuLCan 900 KAWASAKI uLTraAT310 $1,400/KLZ1000BFF $900/VN1700KGF $0/JT1500MFF $1,000. 48 MONTHS NOLXCHARGE ON THE 2015 ULTRA 310LX JETSKI. MOTORCYCLE(S) AND ACCESSORIES SHOWN$16,106.40.

ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION PURPOSES ONLY. ACTUAL COLOURS MAY Subject to credit approval.

Motorcycle(s) and accessories shown are ZX6SEaBS k CuSToM VARY DEPENDING ON AVAILABILITY. DEALER TRADE OR FACTORY ORDER MAY BE NECESSARY. JETSkiWITHOUT NOTICE, SEE US FOR FULL DETAILS. for illustration purposes only. Actual colours may vary depending on availability. inC.! pp OFFERS SUBJECT TO CHANGE $ * 14,369 Dealer trade or Factory Order may be necessary. Offers subject to change without $ * $ * notice, see us for full details. Offers cannot be combined with any other offers, programs or discounts and are good until November 30, 2016.

kaWaSaki FaLL SaLES EVEnT!

4,985 GrEaT rEBaTES on MoST non-CurrEnTS HurrY in For BEST SELECTion!

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20,169

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purCHaSE FinanCinG on aLL 2016’s!

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9,465 19,865 SHOPPING: THE ONLY RETAILER IN ONTARIO TO OFFER HONDA, KAWASAKI, KTM, SUZUKI AND YAMAHA One StOp ShOpping: the Only FactOry authOrizedALL retailerUNDER in OntariO tO ONE OFFer hOnda, KawaSaKi, KtM, SuzuKi and yaMaha all under One rOOF! ROOF! Fall Wheels sales event!

SUMMER ROLL-OUT EVENT!15Hp outboard Motors WWW.READYYAMAHA.COM • 430 HENSALL CIRCLE, MISSISSAUGA • 866-819-4086 Yamaha

pressure 2013 Yamaha V-Star 2015 Yamaha r3 2016 FZ7 2013 Yamaha Generator Transfer/Water pump Yamaha Washer 2014 Yamaha 2014 Yamaha Grizzly 2017 * 250cc Cruiser Black $ r6 1300cc Stryker FZ-10aHG 3000pSi/2.8GpM 550EpS - YF55GpEL EF2000iS EF3000iSEB Yp20GY Pressure 2016 FZ7 $ Generator Washer 2014 Yamaha Pump 2017 2013*Yamaha 2014 Yamaha Grizzly $ * $ R6 * $ $ *Transfer/Water * $ * $ * $ * $ * $ * Coloured EF2000iS $ * FZ-10AHG 1300cc Stryker 3000PSI/2.8GPM EF3000iSEB 550EPS - YF55GPEL YP20GY

5,279

15HP $

3,088 Motors

$Outboard *

3,088* 4Hp

1,490 4HP 5,179 $ Body add 100$ $ * * $ $ * * $ www.readyyamaha.com• * $ * * 1,490 $ * $ * $ * 4,600 Body add 100 8,000*Vehicle Licence11,099 1,000 16,869 11,970 2,715 829 399 (where applicable) and HST extra. Sale Price on the New Motorcycles includes freight and P.D.E.,9,449 ECRF, Licence Administration Fee and OMVIC Fee. Freight & PDE ($550/$65/$65/$65/$75/$100/$65), all extra on the following on the other products:YF55GPEL/EF2000iS/EF3000iSEB/YP20GY/PW3028/ 430 hensall circle, Mississauga *VEHICLE LICENCE (WHERE APPLICABLE) AND HST EXTRA. SALE PRICE ONPricing THEofNEW MOTORCYCLES INCLUDES FREIGHT AND P.D.E., ECRF, LICENCE AND OMVIC FEE. FREIGHT & PDE ($550/$75/$75/$50/$50/$850/$60/$60), ALL EXTRA THE FOLLOWF15SMHA/F4CMHA). the following include a limited time rebate and discount of: (XV250D $400/R3 $500/FZ7 $160/XVS13CADMINISTRATION $1,000/FZ-10AHG $0/R6 FEE $900/YF55GPEL $550/EF2000iS $225/EF3000iSEB $150/YP20GY $200/PW3028 $0/VX1100AMB $750/F4SMHA $50/F15SMHA $100).ON In addition, the following ING ON THE OTHER PRODUCTS:YF55GPEL/EF2000IS/EF3000ISEB/YP20GY/PW3028/ VX1100BMB/F4CMHA/F15SMHA). PRICING OF THE FOLLOWING INCLUDE A LIMITED TIME REBATE AND DISCOUNT OF: (XV250D $400/R3 $500/FZ7 $160/XVS13C $1,000/FZ-10AHG $0/R6 November 30,30,2016 is extra on the YF55GPEL: $399 Licence Administration Fee$750/F4SMHA & $18.50 ECRF. Dealer$50/F15SMHA order/trade may be necessary, if weADDITION, sell out of our THE inventory.

Vehicle(s) and accessories shown for illustration purposes$299 only. Offers good untilADMINISTRATION 2016 andFEE are subject to changeECRF. withoutDEALER notice, see usORDER/TRADE for full details. $900/YF55GPEL 866-819-4086 $550/EF2000IS $225/EF3000ISEB $150/YP20GY $200/PW3028 $0/VX1100AMB $100). IN FOLLOWING IS EXTRA ONareTHE YF55GPEL: LICENCE & $24.85 2013 Yamaha V-Star 2015 Yamaha R3 * 250cc Cruiser Black $ $ * Coloured $ *

4,700

8,100 11,199 16,969 12,070 9,449 1,050 2,715

$

829

399

*

www.readyktm.com www.readyktm.com430 430Hensall HensallCircle, Circle,Mississauga Mississauga 866-812-5582 866-812-5582

MAY BE NECESSARY, IF WE SELL OUT OF OUR INVENTORY. VEHICLE(S) AND ACCESSORIES SHOWN ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION PURPOSES ONLY. OFFERS GOOD UNTIL AUGUST 31, 2016 AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE, SEE US FOR FULL DETAILS.

POWERSPORTS pOwerSpOrtS

OVER 70 USED

OVER 90 USEd 430 Hensall Circle, Mississauga www.readypowersports.com MOTORCYCLES IN-STOCK!

MOTORCYCLES IN-STOCK!

*Vehicle License Fee (where applicable) and HST extra. Some of the prices include limited time Factory Incentives: 390 Duke $400/250 SX-F $1,500/690 Duke $0/350 EXC-F $0/690 Enduro $0/Super Duke R $1,500. Offers good until August 31, 2016.

*Vehicle License Fee (where applicable) and HST extra. Some of the prices include limited time Factory Incentives: 390 Duke $400/250 SX-F $1,500/690 Duke $0/350 EXC-F $0/690 Enduro $0/Super Duke R $1,500. Offers good until November November30,30,2016 2016.

2015 390 DUKE

$

5,920

*

2015 390 dukE

2014 250 SX-F

$

8,200

*

2014 250 SX-F

2013 - 690 DUKE

$

9,599

*

2016 350 EXC-F

12,369

$

2013 - 690 dukE

*

2016 690 ENDURO

12,995 2016 690

$

2016 350 EXC-F

Enduro

*

2014 1290 SUPER DUKE R

18,265*

$

2014 1290 SupEr dukE r

9,699 12,469 SALE! 6,020 8,300 13,095 18,365 SUZUKI SIZZLING SUMMER

430 Hensall Circle, Mississauga www.readypowersports.com

$

*

$

*

$

*

$

* $

* $

*

WWW.READYSUZUKI.COM • 430 HENSALL CIRCLE, MISSISSAUGA • SALES DIRECT: 866-819-4114

Suzuki Fall Savings *Vehicle License 2016 e) and HST 2fee (where applicablGSX-R600 are extra.

Vehi c l e (s) and accessori e s shown are plus Get Sales Plus GeEvent! t for il ustration purposes$only. Pricing includes *a

22016 GSX-r6002016 2 GSX-R750 22016 GSX-r750

129

129

20016 GSX-S1000 20 016 GSX-S1000

129129

plus Get $ * $ plus Get $Plus Get * $* * Plus Get * $ a a a a 5 5 5 Year 5 5 Ye Ye Yea Yea /bw /bw /bw /bw /bw /bw ar ar r r factory incentives. The 2015 models advertised are Warranty!

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5 – The Motorcycle Times, December 2016

WarmWishes

December 2016, The Motorcycle Times – 6

MotorcycleNews Mix - 0/35/85/0

Latest motorcycle technology Self-Balancing Motorcycles for 2017 keeps riders connected It appears the technology revolution has turned its attention to the very physics behind travelling on two-wheels with the announcement of a gravity-defying electric motorcycle riding out next year.

A peek at Thrustcycle Enterprises’ new prototype, a revolutionary self-balancing electric motorcycle called the GyroCycle, as well a promise of production of its first street model in 2017 could have self-stabilizing gyroscopic motorcycles cruising America’s streets next year, then Canada soon after.

This would be a welcomed advancement to a variety of people interested in living life from the saddle of a motorcycle.

Interestingly enough, the science behind self-balancing vehicles isn’t a new one. Although they moved along on two-wheels, the technology was seen in what were called ‘gyrocars’ as early as 1914. As with all such stories, this technology begins with large characters behind even bigger ideas. In this case it was a member of the Russian royal family, Count Pyotr Shilovsky, who commissioned the first prototype Gyrocar. Unsurprisingly called the Shilovski Gyrocar, it was demonstrated in London in 1914.

Whether it’s apps to track rain storms or black boxes to remotely diagnose problems, the connected technology revolution has come to motorcycles.

The classic, traditional world of twowheeled open-road biking now has plenty of digital routes available to any rider willing to navigate new technologies. And bike manufacturers are finding that good technology can also be good for business as they look to attract a new generation of Millennial riders.

Some new cool technologies are connected helmets, which allows riders to take pictures, listen to music and make phone calls as they rumble along. There are also apps like Dark Sky, which allow

The self-stabilizing motorcycle from Thrustcycle uses similar technology, with internal flywheels creating a gyroscopic effect ensuring the bike will remain upright and stable both during the ride and at standstill when powered up. This effect is currently felt by riders at higher speeds, the revolutionary piece is to enjoy the stabilization while sitting still.

Because Thrustcycle’s system maintains a fixed plane in space, the vehicle will be less likely to slide under and lose traction when going into turns because the gyroscope will maintain lateral integrity. The self-balancing function gives the rider more control and greatly increases safety.

“The GyroCycle is an energy efficient vehicle with rock solid stability,” said company President Clyde Igarashi who notes the core technology behind the GyroCycle has broad implications for safety and sustainability.

Although Thrustcycle aims be the first to bring a gyroscopic motorcycle to market, other major players are emerging. BMW recently debuted the Motorrad Vision Next 100 concept motorcycle, which features a self-balancing system said to provide stability while at a standstill as well as when in motion. According to BMW, beginners will benefit because their cycle cannot fall over, while more experienced riders will enjoy the benefits that come with the improved agility that their self-balancing system provides.

In honor and recognition of Veterans Day, Indian Motorcycle®, America’s first motorcycle company, paid tribute to our nation’s veterans with a day of gratitude and a motorcycle ride on the outskirts of Atlanta. In partnership with Zac Brown Band, the Indian Motorcycle Riders Group and charity partner Veterans Charity Ride to Sturgis, the ride kicked-off Wednesday morning beginning at Indian Motorcycle of Marietta and ending at the campus of Camp Southern Ground, Zac Brown’s nonprofit passion initiative, in Fayetteville.

“All of us at Indian Motorcycle are honored and humbled to continue our steadfast support of America’s military personnel, their families and our veterans, whom we proudly salute today on Veteran’s Day,” said Steve Menneto. “I thank the more than 100 veterans and IMRG riders who took part in this epic day of motorcycle comradery. I would also like to thank Zac Brown Band and their team for their support of our troops, and for making this a legendary event.”

Along for the ride and day’s events were four representatives of the ‘Veterans Charity Ride to Sturgis,’ which provides twowheeled motorcycle therapy for wounded and amputee American military veterans.

This past summer marked the second straight year Indian Motorcycle has sponsored this very special charity ride, which departed from Los Angeles en route to the 76th annual Black Hills Rally through some of America’s most scenic landscapes.

Camp Southern Ground is a non-profit organization founded by Zac Brown, with a mission to provide extraordinary experiences for children to recognize and magnify

riders to pinpoint when rain will start falling and predict how long it will last. Another app, Rever, is a motorcycle a socialmedia app that records a rider’s route, which they can then share with others in an online community.

Last, there’s now a black box that can be installed on Harley-Davidson motorcycles that can allows mechanics to diagnose trouble remotely. It’s the Vance & Hines FP3.

The idea is to make riding more pleasurable, and that will attract more riders of all ages according to manufacture’s.

Just my opinion, But I’m not sure that we need all this, I think some are missing the point of riding. We have enough distractions to worry about, let’s not add self inflicted distractions to the list.

Indian Motorcycle & Zac Brown Band Surprise Veterans

the unique gifts within themselves and others in order to profoundly impact the world.

Camp Southern Ground places a special emphasis on those with neuro-developmental disorders, as well as children from military families and those with social or emotional challenges.

Indian Motorcycle partnered with Grammy® award-winning and multi-platinum artists Zac Brown Band in May 2015 as ambassadors for the iconic American motorcycle brand. The band, an avid group of motorcycle riders, supports Indian Motorcycle through various events and initiatives across the country.

Indian Motorcycle has a proud military history, providing bikes to the war efforts in both WWI and WWII as well as supporting a host of military programs and events over the course of many decades.

Zac Brown Band has a long history of supporting the U.S. military as well. The band members are USO tour veterans who have entertained more than 20,000 troops. In partnership with Indian Motorcycle and the USO, Zac Brown Band met with select troops on some stops of their 50-city North American Stadium Tour, crossing the country in support of their recently released ‘JEKYLL + HYDE’ album, which garnered their third consecutive number one ranking on the Billboard 200.

“It was an honor and a privilege to be a part of this day and the band is proud to have played a small role in making this day special for our veterans,” said Zac Brown.

“Camp Southern Ground was proud to host this special event and welcomes our nations veterans today and every day.”

30%K

Bolt-on drum charger boosts power and torque up to 25% This refreshingly simple forced induction system for motorcycles won’t give you the huge power output of a turbo system – but it can give you a boost of up to 0.6 bar (8.7 psi) and some 15-25 percent more power, torque and efficiency at “about a tenth” the price of a turbo setup.

If you want more power, torque and efficiency out of your motor, one of the best ways to get it is to force more air into the combustion chamber, then give it more fuel to make a bigger bang with.

In the motorcycle world, things seem to be going the other way. There’s only one forced-induction motorcycle on the market, and it caused a huge sensation when it was launched, The H2. But it’s nearly twice the price of a “regular” Superbike.

The Drum Charger is superficially similar to a turbo; it harvests leftover exhaust gas energy to pressurize the air intake. But instead of using complex, fast-moving turbines and compressors, it does so in a very mechanically simple way.

The drum charger, at its heart, is a plain old disc-shaped membrane – you could think if it a bit like a speaker cone. On one side of this membrane, it’s exposed to the exhaust gases as they pass through towards the muffler, via a closed channel that comes off the main pipe. On the other side is the air intake.

When the cylinder fires, a pulse of hot exhaust gas is sent down the pipe, part of which exits out through the muffler, but part of which goes down the drum charger’s closed channel and pushes against the membrane. As the membrane gets pushed away from the exhaust, it reduces the volume in the cold intake chamber, increasing the pressure before that air is sent to the airbox through a series of reed valves.

As soon as the exhaust pulse finishes, the membrane returns to its original position thanks to a leaf spring, bouncing the pressure wave back out into the exiting exhaust, but leaving the gas in there - so this channel never heats up beyond 50 degrees celsius.

As it’s driven by the exhaust pulses, it’s totally synchronized to the cylinder’s combustion cycle – so, provided the drum is the optimal distance from the exhaust header (some 60-80 cm, depending on the model) it will always develop its pressure charge at exactly the right time.

The key downside is fairly obvious; the drum charger is a big ol’ chunk of plastic that needs to sit somewhere on your bike.

In fact, an 800cc twin is about as large a motor as Alter Ego thinks the drum charger will be able to work for. alterego-hardware.com

Autumn is here, the leaves have changed and as the riding season winds down we continue our annual tradition of discussing what’s new for the Zero Motorcycles lineup of electric motorcycles.

This year Zero has a few surprises in store to broaden their bikes’ appeal to new riders.

There are now 14 configurations of Zero Motorcycles ranging in price from $8,495 to $18,690.

The most powerful bike, the Zero SR, now has a whopping 116 ft-lbs of torque.

With a Power Tank range extender, the new Zero SR is rated at 202 miles of city travel and 101 miles at 70 mph—finally breaking the long-standing 100 and 200 milesper-charge barriers.

Every Zero model gets more torque and power with an increase in the maximum current from the controller to the battery.

The Zero S and Zero DS lineups get a new model with a 6.5-kilowatt-hour battery with a marsupial-like pouch to store small items. A long-desired locking storage box is a welcome feature too.

The big deal about Zero’s mobile app this year is that it will be able to update the firmware of 2017 models over the air. Firmware updates used to require a visit to the local dealer, but now troubleshooting and fixes that involve firmware can be done at home.

The FX and FXS models can be configured with modular battery components or integrated batteries. Integrating them saves weight, but modular batteries can easily be swapped on the road or at home.

The drive belt is wider on this year’s bikes than it was for 2016 and before, giving a more robust feeling to the ride.

Options for the tank area of four Zero models include a locking case, a Power Tank (3.3kwh additional battery), a “charge tank” that delivers an increase of 2.5 kilowatts of additional charging power when plugged into a charging station.

The fit and finish of the entire lineup is improved this year, with higher-quality paint instead of parts with color molded in.

7 – The Motorcycle Times, December 2016

2017 Zero Electric more range & power, better options

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©2016 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, ™ and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. Offers valid in Canada, from November 1, 2016 to January 6, 2017. The terms and conditions may vary depending on your province and these offers are subject to termination or change at any time without notice. See an authorized BRP dealer for details. † SAVE UP TO $2,000 ON SELECT 2016 MODELS: Eligible units are select new and unused 2016 Can-Am Spyder models. Rebate amount depends on the model purchased. While quantities last. ‡ GET 4-YEAR COVERAGE WITH FREE ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE: Eligible units are select new and unused 2017 Can-Am Spyder models. The buyer of an eligible unit will receive the 24-month BRP Limited Warranty plus 24-month B.E.S.T. coverage. The buyer of eligible units will also receive 48 months of FREE Roadside Assistance. B.E.S.T. service contract is subject to a $50 deductible on each repair. For complete details, please see the BRP limited warranty and the B.E.S.T. agreement at an authorised BRP dealer near you. ◊ GET A FREE CGX2 CAMERA: Offer valid at participating authorized dealers or on the online store, while supplies last. Customers who purchase $1,200 of BRP clothing and/or accessories – based on invoice total before taxes, labor and installation fees - are eligible to receive a CGX2 action camera by Cyclops Gear (a value of $299.99), at no additional cost. BRP genuine parts and trailers are excluded from this promotion. This offer is not refundable, exchangeable or transferable and it cannot be redeemable for cash or other products of equivalent or similar value. Limit of one (1) camera per eligible customer. To receive their CGX2 action camera, customers must fill and sign the customer information section of the CGX2 camera claim form provided by the participating authorized BRP dealer. The participating authorized BRP dealer will then provide customers with a CGX2 camera. If the participating authorized BRP dealer does not have a CGX2 camera in stock, dealer must place an order with BRP and then contact the customer when the CGX2 camera is available for in-store pick up. Some models depicted may include optional equipment. Follow all instructional and safety materials.

Always observe applicable local laws and regulations. Always wear a helmet, eye protection and appropriate protective clothing. Always ride responsibly and safely. Always remember that riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix. ©2016 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, ™ and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. Offers valid in Canada, from November 1, 2016 to January 6, 2017. The terms and conditions may vary depending on your province and these offers are subject to termination or change at any time without notice. See an authorized BRP dealer for details. † SAVE UP TO $2,000 ON SELECT 2016 MODELS: Eligible units are select new and unused 2016 Can-Am Spyder models. Rebate amount depends on the model purchased. While quantities last. ‡ GET 4-YEAR COVERAGE WITH FREE ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE: Eligible units are select new and unused 2017 Can-Am Spyder models. The buyer of an eligible unit will receive the 24-month BRP Limited Warranty plus 24-month B.E.S.T. coverage. The buyer of eligible units will also receive 48 months of FREE Roadside Assistance. B.E.S.T. service contract is subject to a $50 deductible on each repair. For complete details, please see the BRP limited warranty and the B.E.S.T. agreement at an authorised BRP dealer near you. ◊ GET A FREE CGX2 CAMERA: Offer valid at participating authorized dealers or on the online store, while supplies last. Customers who purchase $1,200 of BRP clothing and/or accessories – based on invoice total before taxes, labor and installation fees - are eligible to receive a CGX2 action camera by Cyclops Gear (a value of $299.99), at no additional cost. BRP genuine parts and trailers are excluded from this promotion. This offer is not refundable, exchangeable or transferable and it cannot be redeemable for cash or other products of equivalent or similar value. Limit of one (1) camera per eligible customer. To receive their CGX2 action camera, customers must fill and sign the customer information section of the CGX2 camera claim form provided by the participating authorized BRP dealer. The participating authorized BRP dealer will then provide customers with a CGX2 camera. If the participating authorized BRP dealer does not have a CGX2 camera in stock, dealer must place an order with BRP and then contact the customer when the CGX2 camera is available for in-store pick up. Some models depicted may include optional equipment. Follow all instructional and safety materials.

Always observe applicable local laws and regulations. Always wear a helmet, eye protection and appropriate protective clothing. Always ride responsibly and safely. Always remember that riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix.

S RE

Friday the 13th in Port Dover

July 2012 17

I am an a Addict Dover Thunder celebrates 13 years of business ADVANCEDApparel ROAD CRAFT PR OG

IVE SS RE

SAFETY

r

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TRAIN ING

day 13th clothing. Using such Norfolk businesses as Truckin’ T-shirts for silk screenADVANCED ROAD CTake RAFTyour skills to the next level. ing and Quick Stitch Embroidery as well as various graphic designers, Margit’sCONTRIBUTING Dover Our European inspired course begins by evaluating your WRITER Thunder clothing line includes men’s and current skill level and tailoring our program to meet your needs. ladies’ t- shirts, hats, crests, kids apparel, Challenging you to take your riding to the next level. and both long and short sleeve choices.

Using an advanced riding system as taught by the Margit, who has lived in Port Dover for the past 35 years, is the mother of two daughUK police to their riders.

Muted sunlight filters through the high possibilities ride with me. Yes, strange ters. clouds and is slow to dry the Admitting the business is pavement. a bit nerve days indeed.

I flash through the shadows strewn by Everyone has it, their own escape craft. wracking because it is so weather depenthe bare forest and with every passing It can be literally anything that takes you DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES... dent and requires substantial financial inkilometer, every change in temperature away from the world and for us its motorvestment and physical work setting up tires tents, cycles. Combine the visceral sensations of Call or go online to book your course today! and new smell, every variance of my Margit at the October 2010 Friday the Margit loves Friday 13th in Port Dover. grip as the world rolls by déjà vu peaks riding 13th.with the complex things each of us www.advancedroadcraft.ca “I’ve the metkeyholes. people from all over the world. hold inside and well, I have no words to through ange with a cowboy graphic is ait popular I’ve met people who havespecial flown their bikes There is something about a describe it and that’s fine because is you choice of some men. in from the people who ar- who understands the powerful emotions beautiful dayU.K. in and November and have if you willdon’t oftenneed go forwords. butter yellow or rivedyourself by limo. lot of orpeople back thatWomen find in A a place doingcome an activresult. We cactus green, if they are looking someity thatyear stirsand your soul the past They just every look forthen my clothing.

A knowing smile, a peace sign for flashed thing different than black.

Shoppers may unlock the doors to your mind. of a get to know you. It is a lot of fun,” she said. between passing strangers or a nod enjoy the quality and unique designsthe that MarThis day,employs my strange day20was full of head says it all among memMargit about people forold the helmeted friends riding alongside and deeper still, bers in our secret society of speed and git’s Dover Thunder Apparel offers.

She sets up Thursday and takes Margit Wamsley, right, and friend Connie Prime showcase some of Margit’s aevent. youthSaturday. spent exploring days just like this experience.

Tailored If you miss seeing so herindividually on the street, its she down “Dover Thunder Apparel”. oneEvery with gun or rod in hand.

Buried memimpossible to tell anyone and convey the year, Margit enjoys working with can be reached at wamsley@cablerocket. ories coaxed back into the light of a warm true different colours and designs. Texas or- commeaning of what it is like for you and a Special Events Coordinator for Norfolk autumn day.

By Donna McMillan Riding slow enough to free I to ride and remember.

County in her regular work day, will once the brain power I allow the past to mix Our motorcycles are different as is how “Dover Thunder Apparel”, specializing again have staff manning two booths that with the here and now. I let the strange- we ride but the sensations transcend. The roar of the wind and engine, the bite of in Friday 13th biker wear is celebrating its feature “Dover Thunder Apparel”. They ness flow into my consciousness.

Maybe it’s the weird light as the world rubber on the road, the power. The con13th year of business this year, a year of can be found next to Dover Hairport, near tilts towards winter that threatens us as trol of our destiny and of time itself. Stir three Friday 13ths and expectations that the Dover Dairy Bar and in The Arbor bikers.

Maybe as we seize any suitable these physical aspects with our minds and this July 13th could be the biggest event in parking lot. day to ride as the end looms close and we memories swirl together with the present.

Thirteen years ago, Margit started off Port Dover to date. try to soak in the feelings, the whole deal Then add a glimpse or two into the future Owner Margit Wamsley, who works as designing hats and quickly moved to Friadvancedroadcraft@gmail.com PR OG

December 2016, The Motorcycle Times – 8

ININ G

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david rusk

Strange Days

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brings the strange. The bare trees and for- and euphoria takes over. est floor blanketed in the dry orange of The whine of the gear driven camshafts fallen leaves. How the wind creeks the pulsed as the engine barely ticked over timber reminiscent of a wooden ship tack- at idle. Click. I stayed still waiting for the ing against a gathering storm. The birds world to replace the roar in my ears and flock under the dull sun preparing to van- admired Haliburton and its highlands far ish and the sound of the world changes, below me stretching to the horizon. seeming more hollow. Crisp.

Careful not to relock them I was alone Some may see the dying in this time of just long enough to close the doors on my year but I see a great conservation. A With cull,a unique, past when Dave showed up. Riding a prisThe Can-Am® Spyder® RT and RS ®roadsters.

The Can-Am Spyder® RT and RS roadsters. With a unique, a paring down ofstance the excess in preparation tine BMW GS 650 he putted through Skythree-wheeled and intuitive, rider-focused features, three-wheeled stance and intuitive, rider-focused features, everything you Not need to becomebut one awith the road. of the it’s next growth. dying turnline it’s everything you need to become one withparks the road.lot and stopped behind my now It’s riding. Reinvented. Discover what thousands of riders It’s riding.

Reinvented.

Discover what thousands of riders ing back of time, a reset.

After all is this cramped looking Honda. As he pulled his already know at can-am.brp.com. already know at can-am.brp.com. not whatThewe all want in the end, to turn helmet off revealing a broad smile and ® ® Can-Am Spyder RT and RS roadsters. With a unique, the clockthree-wheeled back? I think this is what is so features, stance and intuitive, rider-focused longish silver hair I thought “Think I’m it’s everything youNovember need to become one That with the road. special about a warm day. going to like this guy”. And I did.

It’s riding. Reinvented. Discover what thousands of riders elusive ingredient makes us desperHe had the look of a local and the glow already know atthat can-am.brp.com. ate to feel our passion of two wheels. A that told me today was his strange day redo of the world where past, present and also. We shook “Dave, Dave Bathe”. My future merge into a confusing mix that we smile widened and I paused before offercan’t quite pin down. Grasping to under- ing mine. Its always odd meeting someone stand these odd days, perhaps we wish with the same name. As it turned out we for our own redo. Its not the end of our had a lot in common. The recent purchase riding season but dreams of a new one. of our bikes, how a yearning demanded By the time Catchacoma passed the we buy them obstacles be damned. The road had dried but my pace that weSEMI-AUTOMATIC both had been on hiatus VEHICLEfact STABILITY SYSTEM TRANSMISSION DYNAMIC POWERfrom STEERING VEHICLEremained STABILITY SYSTEM SEMI-AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION DYNAMIC POWER STEERING system No clutch or foot shifter here. required Adjusts required effort through automotive-like systemAn No clutch lever or foot shifterlever here.

Adjusts effort slow as childhood friends An visited and I automotive-like our shared passion, although hethrough much integrating stability, traction Yourup leftand thumb your acceleration, and steering integrating stability, traction Your left thumb shifts yourshifts up and acceleration, speed andspeed steering braking forshifts an down. shifts down. Withangle reverse. angle comfort data. Moreand comfort and and anti-lock braking for and forefinger reverse. data. More felt my first kiss. I rode a thousand cor-an anti-lock longer thenforefinger I.WithNow retired Dave told me improved control. incredibly confident ride. incredibly confident (Manualride. available) (Manual available) improved control. ners with my friends and listened to their he had worked for the same company I do voices telling escapades fromVEHICLE the fringes andSEMI-AUTOMATIC how we both grew toDYNAMIC hate POWER the monthSTABILITY SYSTEM TRANSMISSION STEERING An automotive-like system No clutch lever or foot shifter here.

Adjusts required effort through of my memory. Boldly I should have takly 2000 mile commute.

Strange meeting integrating stability, traction Your left thumb shifts up and your acceleration, speed and steering and anti-lock braking for an forefinger shifts down. With reverse. data. More comfort and en her hand as she stood in the bedroom Dave onavailable) my strange day.angle incredibly confident ride.

(Manual improved control. door instead of shying away. So long ago All these different conversation threads my mind seeks, keyed open by the magic as we stood in the stark beauty of Onof these days. tario’s boreal forest and every time they South of Gooderham Al stands in front finished it was with this comfortable vibe of a rock cut at Green Lake road smiling as we smiled and remembered. We shared Dealer Imprint Imprint at me as I ride by. A tear on his cheekDealer be-14 snippets ofRoad our 13, memories that came Regional Courtland, ON visGoes Here Goes Here cause he can’t ride anymore, he died on iting as we rode and we agreed that no 519-688-3278 that rock. Ghosts murmur in my ear as I matter how rough and confusing life gets, purposely slow my speed to remember. riding filters it all out leaving just one conwww.lockhartsodyssey.ca Dealer Imprint The smiling faces of true friends guide me clusion. And as I rode home I understood.

Here through my therapy session that we callGoes Listen to the wind whispering around riding a motorcycle. your helmet because it has one hell of a Regret, joy, melancholy, desires and story to tell you.

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©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. ©2011 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, ™ and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates.

610376 Always ride responsibly and safely and observe applicable laws. Remember that riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix.

610376

9 – The Motorcycle Times, December 2016

ITS HEART BEATS STRONGER THAN EVER. so will yours.

*Compared with original equipment 2016 Touring models. ©2016 H-D or its Affiliates. H-D, Harley, Harley-Davidson and the Bar & Shield Logo are among the trademarks of H-D U.S.A., LLC.

Clare’s Harley-Davidson® of Niagara

590 York Rd, Niagara on the Lake 905-684-4647 OR 866-979-7403 www.claresharleydavidson.com

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December 2016, The Motorcycle Times – 10

RoadTrip Mix - 0/35/85/0

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The Ride, the People and the Places The Alaskentina Motorcycle Team

dom, ben and tym

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

We left Panama House B&B with a small contingent of other Stahlrattebound riders. Our ride to Carti, Panama was fairly uneventful, but was certainly highlighted by the incredible road from the highway to the coast through the San Blas Hills. We were treated to a well-paved road winding through the steep twisting hills, something we haven’t seen much of up until now on our journey; most of the mountainous roads have been washed out dirt and gravel roads. The slow hairpin turns led us to an alternating view of wide-open vistas of perfectly green wilderness, the occasional ranch or herd of livestock, and dense jungle bush that towered over the road.

We arrived to the port about twenty minutes late for the Captains 11:00 A.M. timing. This isn’t the army though, right? What’s the worse that could happen! We quickly unloaded all of our luggage off the bikes and watched as a few of the Kuna indigenous people hurried back and forth, carrying all of our possessions to the little putt-putts that would take us and our things to the Stahlratte, which was anchored a few hundred metres offshore.

The Stahlratte herself was soon alongside the concrete pier, and Captain Ludwig directed a fine crew from behind his winch that lifted the bikes one at a time on to the vessel. Built in Holland in 1903, the boat measures 126 feet in length and easily accepted its load of 14 motorcycles. Now, we could breathe. We made it.

After an evening spent swimming and relaxing on one of the nearby islands, we ‘set sail’ Friday morning with an additional few passengers on board - bikeless backpackers catching a lift to the southern continent.

By lunch we were diving into the beer fridge, flipping off the gunwales, and rope swinging from the same winch that had lifted the bikes aboard. Playtime continued through Saturday;

snorkeling through corals, free diving to the anchor, and swimming in the warm bioluminescent water once the sun had long since faded. Along with another guitarist, Dom and Tym took the opportunity to treat a crowd to some old favourites from the 90s and early 2000s.

The boat was often visited by local Kuna people in their hollowed out canoes and hand-carved paddles to deliver lobster, octopus, drinks and ice - obviously there is a good relationship between Captain Ludwig and the indigenous people, helped along with a few greenbacks... We thoroughly enjoyed our time off the pavement, and gained lots of valuable insight into the lives of the other riders on board. It became quite apparent that five months was fast for our trip, though all but one of the other riders were well seasoned with the time to permit their lengthy adventures and probably deeper pockets! We decided we liked our trip - we’re young and impatient and the constant deadlines suit our thirst for adventure. Sure it would have been nice to spend more than a night in some of these areas, but for us that wasn’t in the books.

Anyway, it’s the adventure in your days, and not the days in your adventure that count! That’s what we tell ourselves anyway...

Sunday morning we were rudely awoken at the break of dawn by the big, old, inefficient and incessant diesel engine. Bakataka-bakatakabakataka-bakataka... the four stroke, four cylinder 88 litre engine shook us to the bone from our cabin adjacent to the hot engine room. Far from seasoned sailors, we (mostly Ben and Dom) felt the ups and downs of the swollen seas deep in our bellies and the day was mostly spent trying to keep the First Mate’s rum cocktail from the previous night below deck.

While we suffered on board, back on land the dubious Daríen Gap was sitting in its mysterious, dangerous, and impassable glory. The stretch of land was settled at various times

with disastrous results, and is now only inhabited by the Kuna people. It serves not only as a barrier for transportation, but also for diseases such as foot and mouth, which have not been able to cross this border. The gap is also a valuable environmental sanctuary, which biologists long to preserve. Time will tell if the road will be completed, though it is certain it will bring much controversy as the completion of the Pan-American Highway would mean a choice for infrastructure and commerce over rainforest destruction and indigenous preservation. And then there’s the drug smuggling. Needless to say, we were happy skirting the wild narrows of the Darien Gap aboard the trusted Stahlratte.

By late morning on Monday we were on our final approach into Cartagena where tall skyscrapers sparkled in the bright sun, towering above the old stone-walled city founded in 1533. Our arrival coincided with the signing of a historic peace deal between the Colombian government and the FARC rebels, ending a 52-year conflict. Roads were closed down, police lined the streets, and alcohol was banned from the old city centre during the ceremony which saw the government welcome the FARCs to democracy as a political party in return for a promise that the rebel group would turn in their weapons and move their fight to Congress.

What amazing luck to be in Colombia, not to mention Cartagena, for such a momentous occasion. Several heads of state from surrounding countries and members of the UN were in attendance for the signing, and we even caught a glimpse of John Kerry strolling through a park, surrounded by sunglasses and earpieces, on his way to the big event.

The following day we made our way back to the Stahlratte where the immigration process was completed before bakataka’ing for half an hour to where we would unload. In the hot sun we winched the bikes off the

deck, and manhandled the luggage on to the dock. Back and forth we went between the shipyard and the dock, all the bikers bustling past each other with loads of gear, like ants carrying scraps of leaves and grass back to the colony. It was hot work and we were once again ready to get back on the bikes and put in some miles.

In true Alaskentina fashion we were feeling right for time, with only 18 days to make it almost 5000km to Cusco, Peru. And then we received the wonderful news that we could visit our Free The Children programs in Ecuador, and meet the kids that you, our readers, have been so helpful in raising money for. The date was set for October 5th, and the city was Riobamba, about mid-way down Ecuador. We had work to do!

Our first day in Colombia was a pleasure. The roads treated us well and we made good time. Colombia picked up where Central America had left off, with infinite agricultural potential and a lot of hard workers that live off the land. The living is tough, and the many faces we saw, though concealing their age could do little to obscure the hardships they had endured. Their houses of mud seemed to struggle at times to stay standing, however their doorless frames, like their hearts, remained open for all to see.

By early evening we were just leaving the small town of El Viajano when we spotted a small hotel that seemed open for business. The building stuck out from the rest of the village, shiny and new, and the man in charge was proud to show us around. A slight oddity presented itself rather quickly when we noticed that the hotel was still under construction! Some rooms didn’t have beds yet, ours were still unfinished: the windows and doors lacked frames and the mattresses were still wrapped in plastic. We were each treated to our own room, fully equipped with AC and a bathroom for less than a tent fee in North America.

Perfect! As we went to bed a light-

11 – The Motorcycle Times, December 2016

ing storm brewed off in the distance, low in the sky, as stars flickered above the dark clouds that lit up often with sharp flashes of searing light.

Leaving the hotel in the morning we quickly began our ascent into the prominent Colombian high country after passing a motorcycle vendor ladling milk out of his large aluminum containers, a cart of pigs towed behind a wobbly motorcycle, and a man on the roadside holding up a handsized puppy for sale. Once on the steep roads, we followed their tight path, made more treacherous by the

continuous convoy of semi-trucks and loads of motorcycles weaving in and out of place along the one-lane highway. Blind corners were a common adversary in the battle to pass the long 18-wheeled vehicles that occupied both lanes around the curves.

We fought our way up into the fog, and as the temperature dropped so too did our average speed, giving us some brief opportunities to peer out over the endless green landscape and many inaccessible ranches that were sprayed across the valleys and slopes. Our travels took us down

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We climbed for a while again and then equally steep hills and tight turns carried us back down again, into the once infamous city of Medellin. At one point in the 1980’s the city was considered by some to be the most dangerous city in the world, however through consistent efforts to improve the safety and prosperity of the people, it was recently recognized as one of the most innovative cities in the world and has seen a dramatic decrease in homicides and poverty.

What we noticed CONTINUED ON PG.13

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December 2016, The Motorcycle Times – 12

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Last Ride... or was it. scott jackson

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Was this it? Was this the last good riding day of 2016? Looking out the window from my bed, it goes through my mind every Saturday or Sunday this time of year, while waking up. If it’s the least bit sunny outside Canadian bikers are all thinking, “this could be it for the year. Maybe I better get in one last ride”. For sure it was rattling through my gourd while pulling on the long underwear, zipping the liner into my leather jacket, saddling up and heading out on the first Saturday in November.

Fall is my favourite time of the year for scooter piloting. Not too hot.

Not too cold. And no juicy insects decorating your teeth. The spectacle of maples and sumacs enhance the whole riding experience with their brilliant yellows, oranges and reds. And as much as we all enjoy the wonderful technology that goes into producing a two wheeled machine that can take you around the world, at times it’s hard to one up mother nature.

The front wheel, almost on its own, began heading north out of Toronto, turning east onto highway 7. Highway 7 is an older road that stretches from Sarnia to Ottawa. At least it kinda does. In places toll road 407 has taken it over, in others 7a and 7b substitute for it. In other locales it has been totally renamed. In any case, it is easy to find north of TO, as it meanders on a basically east and west course.

The wind was cool enough that there was no danger of nodding off, as we motored through sleepy little villages that are really nothing more than a name anymore; Locust Hill, Green River, Brougham and Myrtle Station.

By the time we got to Port Perry, a fair sized town on the shore of Lake Scugog, we were ready to warm up.

Like many individuals, Tim’s is my go to place for tasty coffee, and this morning, the coffee also functioned as a hand warmer. Seems there were

numerous end-of-season rides occurring. The parking lot right off the main road, was already filled with a number of bikes and their riders. The Tim’s at Port Perry is always like that.

If you are “jonesing” to talk motorcyclists, it’s just one of those places that always appears to attract bikers.

We spent a bit of time shooting the bull with other riders, sipping coffee and checking out the paint jobs and other personal touches on the machinery in the parking lot. But my mind was preoccupied. We had passed a roadside sign that couldn’t be shook from my head, and it was making me hungry. Coming into Port Perry from the west, the placard was advertising perch, pickerel and catfish, all in one meal. It was too much to resist. We said our so-longs, motored back up the street, and went inside “the Smokehouse”.

Of course, Port Perry is full of little places to get a bite to eat, including a few fish and chip places. But the marketer for the Smokehouse was earning his paycheck. I just couldn’t leave Port Perry without having a taste of this 3fer. All three fish were fried in a Cajun crust, deliciously placed on one plate with sides included. It sure hit the spot.

Now fattened and warm, we waddled back to GG, (my bike), and continued east on highway 7. I have a habit of sometimes, instead of waiting for a stoplight to change to green, I just make a right turn. Who knows what’s down this road, right?

Anyway, that’s what happened a few clicks outside of Port Perry. At the intersection with highway 57, the light changed to red and before you knew it, we were putting south. Now 57 is a newer piece of blacktop, and I have enjoyed its long curves and smooth surface on other occasions. Unfortunately, the 407 toll road construction is continuing east, so before long there were signs advising of construction and lane restrictions ahead. CONTINUED ON PG.17

The Ride, the People and the Places was a lively valley draped in thousands of red brick buildings, homes and shops for the 3.7 million inhabitants of the old city, and utter chaos on the streets as swarms of motorcycles split lanes, rode the shoulders and darted through the heavy traffic. We did our best to fit in with the small 250s buzzing along through their daily commutes though our big bikes and wide loads made the experience all the more interesting!

We made it out of the Medellin area unscathed despite a couple of Howie scares: A loose rear rotor bolt locked up the KLR’s rear wheel in the heart of the busy city, and a pressurized gas tank blew a stream of fuel two feet in the air at one of our fill ups. Other than those oddities, the bikes handled the day’s roads beautifully and sometime around 5 we stopped for the night at a lonely Hotel & Restaurant perched on the steep hills of the Colombian

countryside. Watching our delicious meals cook over a long open fire trench was a treat, and we slept soundly in the mountain air, no fans or air conditioning required at these temperate elevations.

Feeling confident in our progress since the Stahlratte, we planned a short day today to the mountain town of Salento. Despite accidentally splitting up in Pereira, the one-way capital of Colombia, we regrouped and made it to our hilltop hostel by lunchtime. Dom and Tym braved the elements for a three-hour horseback tour of the local waterfall and the boys’ belongings now safely tucked away in one of the many tents that overlook the coffee rich slopes below, currently being treated to a healthy watering after a lengthy dry spell.

With Riobamba and Cusco calling our names we have our work cut out for us over the next two weeks.

As always, we are enjoying the ride, the surprises, and the people who continue to welcome us with eyes that smile and ears that forgive our lacking Spanish vocabularies. Next month: stories from the children, and our efforts to make it there in time!

By spreading the word about our trip and our cause, you can help us

13 – The Motorcycle Times, December 2016

CONTINUED FROM PG.11

reach our goal of raising $22,000 for Free The Children’s Adopt-AVillage program. The organization works to break the cycle of poverty in developing countries and all money raised will be directed to the existing programs in Ecuador and Nicaragua. Visit for more info: www.alaskentina.com.

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December 2016, The Motorcycle Times – 14

RealWorld Mix - 0/35/85/0

30%K

times east 5 l t a arts ame p s e h ing t replac

Bitsa 4 - Red Light Blues A Wrench in the Works

david heron

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Well, I’m back. In more than one way.

If you can remember, I was patting myself on the back for another rescue of a Kawasaki H1A. There was nothing else to do but start it up, tune it and ride away into the sunset. Well, as usual, I was a little wrong.

No, let‘s be serious here, a lot wrong. I did put the bike all together and frankly, it looked great. I wheeled it outside, put some mixed gas in to keep it going until the oil pump primed and started working, said a quick prayer to the gods of internal combustion and turned the fuel cock to prime. The clear fuel lines showed me that the gas was indeed filling the carbs and the leaking at the centre carb showed me that the float level needed adjusting even though I had set them with my trusty Vernier caliper.

One kick, two kicks, and, thrill of thrills, it started. It was on 2 cylinders only but a little twisting on the idle screw and all 3 were making music. It sounds like a happy ending doesn’t it?

There was one little wrench in the works, the generator light was on in a lovely shade of red. I had to work the column name into a story some day.

Anyway, it was not the happy ending I was anticipating but I pulled in the clutch with a bit of difficulty because I had installed Barnett heavy duty springs, flicked it into gear and rode around to the back of the house to show

the LSW that I wasn’t such a boob after all. The engine felt good, the oil pump after being held wide open for the first few minutes was pumping nicely and it was running on all 3 cylinders. How hard could it be to fix it?

I have been called a person who doesn’t follow legitimate and logical progression to solve problems. So, I thought, I can change and went about the trouble shooting in a, for me, logical manner. The way to do it is to start at one end and try one thing at a time. I had installed a charging system modification by using a Ford rectifier and regulator. This was devised by a friend who has far more technical skill than I will ever possess. The generator brushes make AC alternating current and sends it to the rectifier which changes the AC to DC, direct current, and feeds it to the battery to recharge it. I was pretty confident that the wiring I had done on the Ford parts was good. I say, pretty confident. I checked and re-checked my wiring job and actually changed a bit and put it back together and put more gas in and started it again. And, there it was, that stupid red light. So, being logical, I decide that it is not the rectifier/regulator combination.

I have a hoard of spares for my own rider bike which shares the same electrical system as this bike. Into my stash I go somewhat reluctantly because these are spares for my bike. I change the rotor because I found the rotor in

the pile first. I have one that I bought on evilbay a couple years back. It looks nice and clean and the seller said it was good and came off a running bike. As an aside, I hate this because someone tore apart a running classic bike in order to make money off it. They don’t make more classic bikes just like they don’t make more land. Well, except for maybe in Holland when they put up more dykes. Anyway, the rotor which is supposed to be good, goes on and then I have to put the bike back together and try it. Again, more gas, a few kicks and there it is again, or should I say, still, the red light almost seeming to mock me.

The logic that I claim to have tells me that it must be the stator. I have a stator that a friend from the Kawasaki Forum rewound for me. He was working out West re-doing the large electric motors used on the oil rigs and he wanted to see how much work it would be to rebuild an early stator like mine. So, being the guy who is willing to help out, and get a good stator for free, I gave him one of my old ones to practice on.

It came back all done and re-painted and clean. It is so nice looking that it is almost a shame to cover it up with an engine side cover. Anyway, I know it is good. I put it on, again I put the tank back on and start it up. The red light is not just mocking me, it is laughing out loud at me. I keep remembering that I should be logical about this. The stator is good. The rotor is good. Just what the

heck is going on here?

In order to easily work on the rectifier/regulator combo, I have to take the gas tank off. To work on them and then try them means that I have to keep putting the tank back on. So, logic, and laziness, dictate that an easier and simpler way must be found to start the bike without the hassle of putting the tank back on every time to do the test.

I want to just fill up the carbs for each test because it doesn’t take long to see if the darn light goes off and a carb full of gas will give me more than enough time to check that out. I try to think of an easy way to fill the carbs. I think of using a little cup but that gets rejected when more gas spills all over the freshly painted engine and puddles on top.

LSW to the rescue. I had bought a big syringe years ago to inject stuff into meat for barbecuing. I have to admit to her that I don’t do that anymore so she finds it and brings it down to me. The fat needle fits perfectly into the gas line sticking up from each carb and the tube holds enough gas to fill a carb bowl. It works like a charm and I have to admit to her that it was a great idea and that, yes indeed, she is smart. By the way, she is smart. I mean, look who she married.

Anyway, back to the problem at hand. I fill up the carbs and start it up and watch as the red light stays on again. It is laughing out loud and now pointing a finger at me while it laughs at me. After throwing a fit, I get down

My advisory committee on the Kaw forum tell me that I must replace one thing at a time from my own bike because I know that the system works on it. The last thing I want to do is start tearing apart my baby when I know it works well. Murphy’s Law says, if it ain’t broke, don’t mess with it. But, I have no choice. I only have weekends to work on this and it has already been 3 of those. Time is dwindling away. Reluctantly, I take the tank off my bike and remove the rectifier. I must add that it has been on there for 5 years.

Besides the grime, the mounting nuts are stuck and hard to get at. Skinned knuckles are the cause of frequent and loud curses and the change yields no positive result. I put the rectifier into my bike and it works fine. Next is the regulator. Same skinned knuckles and the same results on the Red Light bike.

When I put the regulator from the Red Light bike in mine, it doesn’t work. So, back to the stash, skin more knuckles

and the one from the stash works in my bike. I am no further ahead and now really confused. Did I tell you how much I hate electrics?

Logic seems to have deserted me. I have systematically gone through the whole thing from one end to the other.

So, out comes the rebuilt stator again and on to the Red Light bike. Again, to no avail. The last thing to do is take the supposedly good rotor off and put the crappy looking original that came on the bike back on. Oh yes, I forgot to tell you that I had taken the original stator into a local electrical shop and it tested out fine. It was nice of the owner to test it first because I brought it in to ask for it to be re-wound. He could have just done it and charged me a ton of money and I would have paid it gratefully. So, here we are, the original stator is back on and tested good and I have put the original rotor on. I fuel inject the carbs one more time and kick the bike over.

Again, the engine starts up easily and, it

seems that the electrical gods are smiling down on me. After four, or was it five, weeks, the light is gone. I am doing a jig around the driveway. People are walking by and thinking that the guy down the street who makes all the noise all year has finally lost his mind.

They may just be right. But, who cares?

I am now singing a happy song. The LSW isn’t though. You see, I found a new project that I will tell you about next time but I promised to sell this bike to finance the new one. It is now almost December. That is not the time to sell a classic bike or any other bike for that matter.

Oh well, I’ll put it at the end of the garage where she doesn’t go too much.

Out of sight, out of mind. You can get more for a bike in the Spring anyway. I wonder if she’ll agree?

The moral of this story ? Who the heck knows? I‘m not that logical and not smart enough to find a less demanding hobby.

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Monthly payment and cost of borrowing will vary depending on amount borrowed and down payment/trade. Minimum amount to finance is $5,000. Example: $6,700 financed at 1.99% over 72 months = 72 monthly payments of $98.80 with a cost of borrowing of $413.50 and a total obligation of $7,113.50. $5,299 down payment required to achieve promotional offer of Bi-Weekly payments as low as $49. Monthly payment examples exclude tax, title & other fees. See participating retailers for complete details and conditions. Offer ends December 31st, 2016.

Victory® and Victory Motorcycles® are registered trademarks of Polaris Industries Inc. Always wear a helmet, eye protection, and protective clothing and obey the speed limit. Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. ©2016 Polaris Industries Inc.

15 – The Motorcycle Times, December 2016

to it again. I ask advice on the Kawasaki forum and they say to check the output from the stator going into the rectifier. I start the bike, try to hold the throttle to keep it running and touch my multi meter leads to each pair of rectifier leads.

It seems like I am getting 16.4 AC volts which is what I am supposed to get. I am beginning to suspect that it must be the rectifier/regulator pair that is bad. The rectifier is new and the regulator comes from the shelves at the local garage who have taken them from the cars that they have wrecked and sent away for scrap. My friend at the garage gives me a pile of regulators and says to take ‘em all because they aren’t used any more. I change it out, inject the gas again and start the bike. Guess what?

The Red Light Blues are still here. I am thinking that I should be writing a Blues song about this. Same result for a new rectifier that I had to order in from Saskatchewan through the local auto jobber at quite an investment.

December 2016, The Motorcycle Times – 16

the club life

s ime cle T y c r o Mot The

The Motorcycle Times is looking for a few good writers.

mark stanisz

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Educating Ontario with A.B.A.T.E.

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.

Space Tight?

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When you put your hand up to help do something in a motorcycle club, you often end up being put in charge of making that happen.

In many ways, Claude Jones, a biker who later got the nickname ‘Surf’ was a natural fit for A.B.A.T.E. and volunteering to help is how he eventually got a major role in the club.

A.B.A.T.E. stands for Association of Bikers for Awareness Training & Education.

“They gave me ‘Surf’ because they tell me that I surf through the bullshit and I get to the point,” he laughs. “There’s only so many hours in a day and I usually like to use every minute to the best advantage not listening to bullshit.”

About seven years ago he came across some flyers for A.B.A.T.E., which has been in Ontario since 1988.

At the time he was a manager at a Canadian Tire and some A.B.A.T.E. flyers went up in the area promoting some events. He got in touch and started helping them out.

Next thing you know he started doing live on-air interviews and was ‘promoted’ to Promotional Representative for A.B.A.T.E. of Ontario and is President of Chapter 7.

He’s now pretty busy.

“I help to put on the different events throughout Ontario,” he says. “I’m on the radio, I’m in the newspaper pushing these events.” He works with the O.P.P. and other groups including the Steel Horse Riders to put on various safety and support programs.

WORKING FOR A BIGGER CAUSE A major focus for A.B.A.T.E. in the spring is going into local high schools and talking about distracted driving, impaired driving, driving while stoned, keeping your eyes open and watching for motorcycles on the road. They do it in the spring because that’s when bikes start hitting the road again.

The A.B.A.T.E. presence usually gets way more attention than the police do. Surf doesn’t sugar coat it because he’s got an arm all scarred up from an incident and has had legs broken and various injuries.

“I’m going to give it to them the way it is - not maybe politically correct - but that’s the way it is,” Surf says.

A.B.A.T.E. sets up accident scenes, and there will be a motorcycle and a car and they get professional artists that come in and they do the make-up for them. They usually get some participation from the fire department, the paramedics and police..

It’s so realistic, a couple of years ago people that lived in the area thought a real accident had happened.

“It’s a good way of getting the message out there. It’s a good way to show the socalled ‘dirty bikers’ working with the police and these other people to get the word out there,” he says.

The main point is to hopefully you save a life. That’s what the purpose of A.B.A.T.E.’s work aims for. If they’ve managed to save one person’s life then they consider their job done.

HELPING THE WIDER COMMUNITY

When I ask what charities and causes A.B.A.T.E. is involved in, Surf points again to what A.B.A.T.E. stands for and rhymes off a long list including breast cancer research, show-and-shines, clothing drives, Sick Kids hospital, non-lymphoma cancer and many others including the ‘Tour of Duty Motorcycle Ride’ and he was on TV with that one this past year.

“It was close to my heart because my father fought in the Second World War and he was there on D-Day on Normandy Beach,” he says. It raises money for Canada’s fallen soldiers and the Wounded Warriors project.

All the A.B.A.T.E. chapters raise funds to help ChildCan - which provides support to families going through childhood cancer.

On Saturday, March 18, of next year A.B.A.T.E. plans to host a pool tournament at Hustler Billiards in London, Ontario.

True to their philosophy, everyone’s welcome and a wide range of bikers and groups attend A.B.A.T.E. events.

Any events A.B.A.T.E puts on are basically considered a ‘neutral’ ground and that’s the way everybody looks at it. When bikers attend their big party in Durham every year it’s the same. It’s understood that you’re here, you’re A.B.A.T.E.’s guests, you behave yourself and have a great time.

TAKEAWAYS Surf labours as a road paver and also does woodworking, some welding and this summer he hopes to buy a school bus and convert it into a custom motor home.

He’s had many bikes over the years but right now he’s got two bikes - a Suzuki 1986 1400 Cavalcade currently getting a ground up restoration done and a dark-black and copper 1400 Suzuki Intruder with cruise control and the whole nine yards.

“My dad made me a little home-made thing when I was, what, 5 years old and I’ve been riding motorcycles or bikes or something ever since then,” Surf recalls on how he got started on bikes.

He got the Intruder a couple years ago, and like many bikers looking for just the right new wheels, he searched all winter for it. Over the years he’s had five HarleyDavidsons and various British bikes. Now in his mid-ish 50s, his first real motorcycle was a 750 Triumph.

Interestingly, the skills you learn on a motorcycle often translate well to other vehicles and equipment you use which is why A.B.A.T.E.’s work does so much to educate the broader community.

You learn to check behind and around you constantly for anything that might cause issues.

There are about 10 active A.B.A.T.E. chapters in Ontario - mostly in south-western and central Ontario and their posts on Facebook are constantly attracting new members as people notice all the charitable work they are doing.

“So this is the kind of thing that people are looking at when they’re getting on the site - they’re seeing all the good they’re doing,” he says of A.B.A.T.E.’s works in the community and with individuals.

Last Ride... or was it.

Rather than deal with those dif- a little over an hour ago. But you need ficulties, we again turned east on a to understand; they make some serismall side road toward the village of ously good runny butter tarts. Don’t Tyrone. Just prior to rolling into Ty- judge me, try one. They’re delicious! rone, there is one of those historical The Mill also has a nice area with markers on the north side of the road. some comfortable Muskoka chairs set The marker, and a little shed, indicate up outside, to sit, talk and scarf back the location of where Colonel Sam all those tarts you bought. The buildMcLaughlin started building horse ing has an accessible upstairs where carriages. The shack contains a few a working wood shop is located. The WWW.READYHONDAPOWERSPORTS.COM 430 HENSALL CIRCLE, MISSISSAUGA • SALES DIRECT: 866-819-4116 examples of his early work. Accordold water-driven pulleys and belts•are FIND SUMMER EVENT! ing to MY the placard, when RIDE Sam’s carstill in place, and functional, running 2015 2015 2015 TRANSFER 2014 VFR800 GENERATOR riages became CBR1000S saws, planers and similar tools are in CBR300RTA CBR500R PUMPmore popular, he relo$ $ It was $ $ $ * fired $ BF2.3H HP cated to nearby use.*Back outside there’s a wood 419* Oshawa.

1,289* here$1,779 20,069* $2015 TRX420FA6* 4,579 6,269* 11,919* $ * that the thePARALLEL largest oven 7,349 979 9 company WB20XK2C became EU2000IT1 EG5000 where they bake bread, which manufacturer of horse-drawn bug- was fired up the day we were around.

2016 LAWNMOWER 2014 2014 CTX1300A 2 2016 CBR600RA gies and sleighs in the British Empire. I’m pretty sure that Heaven is going GL1800BG GL1800ADE ports.com $ $ * * $ * $smell the * It was389 also engines 15,600 same way as the aroma $ (Airbag) 2016 TRX420FM2 89 in Oshawa, with$599 13,969 issauga 9* he to 869from 8 24,169* $ $ * from a company called Buick, that coming that oven.

I’m also posi7,199* DC 29,169 HRR2169VVKCC HRRX2175HYC 9-4116 HRS2164PDC 2.99%/36 MTHS. PURCHASE FINANCING! produced the McLaughlin-Buick, es- tive that I’ll never find that out for *LICENCE FEE (IF APPLICABLE) AND HST EXTRA ON ALL OFFERS. OFFERS CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFERS, PROGRAMS OR DISCOUNTS AND ARE GOOD UNTIL AUGUST 31, 2016. DOWN PAYMENT OR EQUIVALENT TRADE-IN ON PURCHASE FINANCING MAY BE REQUIRED tablishing The McLaughlin Motor CarINC. SALE sure though.

BASED ON APPROVED CREDIT FROM HONDA FINANCIAL SERVICES PRICE ON THE NEW MOTORCYCLES INCLUDES FREIGHT AND P.D.E., ECRF, LICENCE ADMINISTRATION FEE AND OMVIC FEE. FREIGHT & PDE ($50/$50/$65/$65/$65/$65/$75/$75/$50/$50/$600/$600), ECRF ($0/ $0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$24.86/$24.86) AND LICENCE ADMINISTRATION ($0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$299/$299) ARE ALL EXTRAMill, ON THE FOLLOWING ON THE OTHER PRODUCTS: 2.3DK2SCHC/WB20XK2C/EU2000IT1/EG5000/HRS2164PDC/HRX2175HYC/HRR2169VKC /TRX420FA6/ Company, which eventually morphed Maneuvering away from the TRX420FM2). PRICING OF THE POWER EQUIPMENT MAY INCLUDE A LIMITED TIME REBATE AND DISCOUNT AND THE MOTORCYCLES/ATV’S AS FOLLOWS: CBR300RTA $1,300/CBR500R $1,100/VFR800 $3,500/CBR1000S $1,000/CBR600RA $800/CTX1300A $5,000/ GL1800BG $1,000/ into General Motors.

Of course, Genwe turned south IFon Liberty Street, GL1800ADE $3,500/TRX420FA6 $1,750/TRX420FM2 $900.

DEALER ORDER/TRADE MAY BE NECESSARY, WE RUN OUT OF INVENTORY OF SELECTED MODELS. VEHICLE(S) AND ACCESSORIES SHOWN ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION PURPOSES ONLY. OFFERS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE,Motors SEE US FOR FULL DETAILS. eral continues to this day, knowing it would end up in Bowproducing cars in Oshawa. Another manville. We spied a winery on the not well-known fact, is that Sam’s east side, which advertised hard cibrother John, started the Canada der. We didn’t stop, but I have it in WWW.READYKAWASAKI.COM Dry company. Therefore, all of us lov- the coconut to make that a destina- • 430 HENSALL CIRCLE, MISSISSAUGA • 866-819-4112 ers of both Chevrolets, and rye with tion on a future ride. At Bowman4YR. K INC.! PP ginger, are deeply indebted to the ville, we caught the 401 and headed village of Tyrone. back to Hogtown.

Another you Back in Toronto, 2015click NINJA or two east and 2015 NINJA 2015a colourful 180 kilo2015 2015 2016 2015 VULCAN 900 NINJA VERSYS VAQUERO ULTRA 310 LX 300 650 will come upon the Tyrone Mill.

It’s meters later, and I’m Googling tomorCUSTOM ZX6SE ABS 1000LT 1700 JETSKI (NON-ABS) (ABS) over 150 and still in Who *knows; maybe $ years old * $ busi- *row’s weather. $ $ * $ * $ * $ * ness. Instead of milling grain, today, today wasn’t the last ride of the sea*VEHICLE LICENCE FEE (IF APPLICABLE) AND HST EXTRAaONfew ALL OFFERS. OFFERS CANNOTis BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFERS, PROGRAMS OR DISCOUNTS AND ARE GOOD UNTIL AUGUST 31, 2016. SALE PRICE ON THE NEW MOTORCYCLES INCLUDES FREIGHT AND P.D.E., ECRF, they saw lumber and produce son, hope a beautiful thing when LICENCE ADMINISTRATION FEE AND OMVIC FEE. FREIGHT & PDE ($650) AND LICENCE ADMINISTRATION ($299) ARE ALL EXTRA ON THE ULTRA 310LX PRICING OF THE FOLLOWING INCLUDE A LIMITED TIME REBATE OF: EX300AFF $1,100/EX650EFF $1,100/VN900CFF $1,000/ZX636FFFA baked goods.$900/VN1700KGF I know. I know I just ate48 MONTHS your a rider. $1,400/KLZ1000BFF $0/JT1500MFF $1,000.

KAWASAKI PROTECTION PLAN IS INCLUDED AT NO CHARGE ON THE 2015 ULTRA 310LX JETSKI. MOTORCYCLE(S) AND ACCESSORIES SHOWN ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION PURPOSES ONLY. ACTUAL COLOURS MAY

HONDA’S FIND MY SUMMER RIDE EVENT!

KAWASAKI SUMMERTIME SALES EVENT!

4,985

7,765

9,465

12,815

15,215

20,169

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VARY DEPENDING ON AVAILABILITY. DEALER TRADE OR FACTORY ORDER MAY BE NECESSARY. OFFERS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE, SEE US FOR FULL DETAILS.

ONE STOP SHOPPING: THE ONLY FACTORY AUTHORIZED RETAILER IN ONTARIO TO OFFER HONDA, KAWASAKI, KTM, SUZUKI AND YAMAHA ALL UNDER ONE ROOF!

ROLL-OUT EVENT! Honda’s sHift into Red event! SUMMER WWW.READYYAMAHA.COM • 4302015 HENSALL CIRCLE, MISSISSAUGA • 866-819-4086 2015 2015 TranSFEr puMp

* 1,999 $999* 1 ,399 5,179 16,869 T1ParallEl EG5000 11,099 HrX2175HY $100 * EU2000i8,000 YC 529

2013 Yamaha V-Star 2015 Yamaha R3 * 250cc Cruiser Black $ $ * Coloured $ *

4,600

Body add

LaWnMoWEr

GEnEraTor

$

$

2016 FZ7

$

*

*

2013 Yamaha 1300cc Stryker $ *

2017 FZ-10AHG

$

$

CBr300rTa

4,679

*

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2014 VFr800

CBr500r

6,369

*

2014 Yamaha 2014 Yamaha Grizzly EF2000iS R6 550EPS - YF55GPEL $ * * $ * $ *

11,970

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CBr1000S

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*

Generator Transfer/Water Pump EF3000iSEB YP20GY

$

2,715*

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399*

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20,169

Yamaha Pressure Washer 3000PSI/2.8GPM $ *

$

829

Outboard Motors

* * 2016$3,088 Honda TrX500SaG $ 4HP *

9,999 1,490

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*

*VEHICLE LICENCE (WHERE APPLICABLE) AND HST EXTRA. SALE PRICE ON THE NEW MOTORCYCLES INCLUDES FREIGHT AND P.D.E., ECRF, LICENCE ADMINISTRATION FEE AND OMVIC FEE. FREIGHT & PDE ($550/$75/$75/$50/$50/$850/$60/$60), ALL EXTRA ON THE FOLLOWING ON THE OTHER PRODUCTS:YF55GPEL/EF2000IS/EF3000ISEB/YP20GY/PW3028/ VX1100BMB/F4CMHA/F15SMHA). PRICING OF THE FOLLOWING INCLUDE A LIMITED TIME REBATE AND DISCOUNT OF: (XV250D $400/R3 $500/FZ7 $160/XVS13C $1,000/FZ-10AHG $0/R6 $900/YF55GPEL $550/EF2000IS $225/EF3000ISEB $150/YP20GY $200/PW3028 $0/VX1100AMB $750/F4SMHA $50/F15SMHA $100). IN ADDITION, THE FOLLOWING IS EXTRA ON THE YF55GPEL: $299 LICENCE ADMINISTRATION FEE & $24.85 ECRF. DEALER ORDER/TRADE MAY BE NECESSARY, IF WE SELL OUT OF OUR INVENTORY. VEHICLE(S) AND ACCESSORIES SHOWN ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION PURPOSES ONLY. OFFERS GOOD UNTIL AUGUST 31, 2016 AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE, SEE US FOR FULL DETAILS.

WB20XK2C www.readyhondapowersports.comPOWERSPORTS $ * HS720C 3,399 430 Hensall Circle,Mississauga OVER 70$ USED * MOTORCYCLES IN-STOCK! HSS724CT 899 SalesDi430rect:866-819-4116 Hensall Circle, Mississauga www.readypowersports.com

$

2016 CBr600ra

15,700

14,069*

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EU7000iSC

*Vehicle License Fee (where applicable) and HST extra. Some of the prices include limited time Factory Incentives: 390 Duke $400/250 SX-F $1,500/690 Duke $0/350 EXC-F $0/690 Enduro $0/Super Duke R $1,500. Offers good until August 31, 2016.

2015 390 DUKE

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2014 2016 2014 CTX1300a 430 Hensall GL1800BGCircle, Mississauga GL1800adE $ www.readyktm.com * 866-812-5582 (airbag) $ * $ *

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$

8,200

*

2013 - 690 DUKE

$

9,599

*

24,269 2016 350 EXC-F

12,369

$

*

2016 690 ENDURO

12,995

$

*

29,269 18,265

2014 1290 SUPER DUKE R

$

*

SUZUKI SIZZLING SUMMER SALE!

November 30,30,2016 *Licence fee (if applicable) and HST extra on all offers. Offers cannot be combined with any other offers, programs or discounts and are good until November 2016. Down payment or equivalent trade-in on purchase financing may be required based on approved credit from Honda Financial Services Inc. Sale Price on the New Motorcycles includes freight and P.D.E., ECRF, Licence Administration Fee and OMVIC Fee. Freight & PDE ($65/$65/$65/$65/$65/$65/$65/$600), ECRF ($0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$18.50) and Licence Administration ($0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$399) are all extra on the following on the other products: HS720C/HSS724CT/WB20XK2C/EU2000iT1/EG5000/EU7000ISC/ HRX2175HYC/TRX500SA6). Pricing of the power equipment may include a limited time rebate and discount and the Motorcycles/ATV’s as follows: CBR300RTA $1,300/CBR500R $1,100/VFR800 $3,500/CBR1000S $1,000/CBR600RA $800/CTX1300A $5,000/ /GL1800BG $1,000/GL1800ADE $3,500/TRX500SA6 $1,000. Dealer order/trade may WWW.READYSUZUKI.COM • 430 HENSALL CIRCLE, MISSISSAUGA • SALES DIRECT: 866-819-4114 be necessary, if we run out of inventory of selected models. Vehicle(s) and accessories shown are for illustration purposes only. Offers subject to change without notice, see us for full details.

2 2016 GSX-R600

129

Plus Get $ * a 5 Year /bw Warranty!

Inc. HST & Licence* @ 9.9% for 60 months $781.25 Down

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20 016 GSX-S1000

Plus Get a 5 Year Warranty!

kaWaSaki FaLL SaLES EVEnT!

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*Vehicle Licence fee (if applicable) and HST extra on all/bw offers. Sale Price on the Motorcycles includesforfreight and P.D.E.,$2,250.00 ECRF, LicenceDown Administration Fee Inc. HST & Licence* @ 9.9% for 60 months $1,798.23 Down Inc. HST &New Licence* @ 9.9% 60 months and OMVIC Fee. Freight & PDE ($650) and Licence Administration ($399) are all 2015 Plus Get extra on the Ultra 310LX Pricing of the2015 Get time rebate of: Plus Get 2015 2015 Plus Get following includePlua slimited 2015 Plus Get a 4 Yea SFV650A S a r r 4 Yea V-STROM 1000 Plana 4is Yea a r 4 GSX-S750A Yea RM-Z450 r SV650A a 5 Year VN900CFF $1,000.

48 Months Kawasaki Protection included www.readykawasaki.com • 430 Hensall circle, mississauga • 877-297-7446 3,804KM Warranty!

Warranty!

Warranty! at No Charge 3,901KM 5,054KM Warranty!

Warranty! on the 2015 Ultra 310LX Jetski.$ 3.9% per annum*for 60 months is available $ $ $ $ 7,099* 7,389* 6,899* 7,669* on all 2016 Kawasaki Motorcycles10,198 eg: 2016 ZX6SE ABS $14,369 with $2,000 *VEHICLE LICENSE FEE (WHERE APPLICABLE) AND HST ARE EXTRA. FOR ILLUSTRATION PURPOSES ONLY. PRICING INCLUDES FACTORY INCENTIVES. THE 2015 MODELS ADVERTISED ARE COMPANYVEHICLE/ DEMONSTRATOR 2015 VEHICLE(S) AND ACCESSORIES SHOWN ARE 2015 down, amount$3,589.78/$3,589.76/$3,589.53/TOTALPAYMENTS financed $12,369, Payment $268.44, C.O.B. $1,494.43 Total Due 2016 VEHICLES.THE 2016 MODELS ARE BRAND NEW. 2016/2016/2016/GSXR-600/GSX-R750/GSXS1000/9.

9%/9.9%/9.9%/ MONTHS:60/60/60/# OF PAYMENTS:130/130/130/ DOWNPAYMENT $781.25/ $1,798.23/$2,250/C.O.B. 4Yr. 16,770/$16,770/$16,770.

VuLCan 900 uLTraSEE 310US LX FOR FULL DETAILS. OFFERS GOOD $16,106.40. Subject to credit approval. Motorcycle(s) and accessories shown are UNTIL AUGUST 31, 2016.

ZX6SEaBS k CuSToM JETSki for illustration purposes only. Actual colours may vary depending on availability. inC.! pp $ 14,369* Dealer trade or Factory Order may be necessary. Offers subject to change without $ * $ * notice, see us for full details. Offers cannot be combined with any other offers, programs or discounts and are good until November 30,30,2016 2016.

GrEaTrEBaTES onMoSTnon-CurrEnTS HurrYin ForBEST SELECTion!

3.9% For 60 MonTHS

9,465

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purCHaSE FinanCinG $268.44/MTH onaLL 2016’s!

17 – The Motorcycle Times, December 2016

CONTINUED FROM PG.12

December December2016, 2016, The Motorcycle Times – 18

FinishLines M M iixx -- 00//3355//8855//00

2017 MotoAmerica Race Schedule Expands to 10 Rounds

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Photo by Brian J. Nelson

Sonoma Raceway and Pittsburgh International Race Complex will host Rounds 7 and 8.

By Paul Carruthers For its third season of racing, MotoAmerica will have a 10-round schedule spread over six months. New additions to the championship include Sonoma Raceway and Pittsburgh International Race Complex. Both of those events will be held in August.

MotoAmerica has announced an expanded schedule for the 2017 MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North American Road Race Championship with 10 rounds and two new venues on the provisional calendar for the upcoming season.

The two new rounds on the schedule are rounds seven and eight, which will be held at Sonoma Raceway in Sonoma, California, August 11-13, and two weeks later at thePittsburgh International Race Complex in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, August 25-27.

While the Sonoma round will mark the first time the MotoAmerica Series has vis-

ited the racetrack in Northern California’s wine country, it was once a regular stop on the AMA Superbike circuit. The last time the AMA Superbike Series held a round at Sonoma Raceway was in 2012 with Josh Hayes and Blake Young splitting victories in the two Superbike races.

The 2017 season will mark the first time an AMA-sanctioned race will be held at the Pittsburgh International Race Complex. The 2.8-mile, 19-turn racetrack is situated in a 400-acre complex located 45 miles northwest of Pittsburgh in Wampum, Pennsylvania.

The 10-round series will begin, as it has in the first two seasons of the MotoAmerica Series, in Austin, Texas, at Circuit of The Americas, April 20-23, with the races again being held in conjunction with the Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas.

Prior to the race, there will be a twoday MotoAmerica team test at COTA, March 28-29.

2017 MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North American Road Race Championship (Provisional Schedule) Round 1: Circuit of The Americas, Austin, Texas, April 20-23 Round 2: Road Atlanta, Braselton, Georgia, April 28-30 Round 3: Virginia International Raceway, May 12-14 Round 4: Road America, Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, June 2-4 Round 5: Utah Motorsports Campus, Salt Lake City, Utah, June 23-25 Round 6: Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, Monterey, California, July 7-9 Round 7: Sonoma Raceway, Sonoma, California, August 11-13 Round 8: Pittsburgh International Race Complex, August 25-27 Round 9: New Jersey Motorsports Park, Millville, New Jersey, September 8-10 Round 10: Barber Motorsports Park, Birmingham, Alabama, September 15-17 From Texas, the series will head directly to Road Atlanta in Braselton, Georgia, for back-to-back races, April 28-30. Round three will take place at Virginia International Raceway in Alton, Virginia, a few weeks later, May 12-14.

The first weekend of June will feature round four at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, before the series heads west to the Utah Motorsports Campus in Salt Lake City, June 23-25.

Round six will again be run in conjunction with the FIM Superbike World Championship at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, California, July 7-9, with a onemonth summer break prior to the series’ return to Sonoma Raceway for round seven,

August 11-13.

The series will then head back east for the final three rounds beginning with the debut race at Pittsburgh International Race Complex, August 25-27, followed by round nine at New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville, New Jersey, September 8-10. The series will conclude for the first time at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama, the following weekend, September 15-17.

“We’re thrilled to announce that our 2017 MotoAmerica schedule will feature 10 rounds, including two new stops,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “It’s always been our goal to expand the series and we’ve been able to do that entering our third season.

Action-packed schedule stays for TT 2017 Ian Hutchinson and Michael Dunlop set to renew their rivalry at 2017 motorcycle festival The schedule for the Isle of Man TT Races fuelled by Monster Energy will remain unchanged for the 2017 edition of the worlds most famous motorcycle race.

The 2016 event saw records tumble as the fierce rivalry between Englishman Ian Hutchinson and Northern Ireland’s Michael Dunlop saw the pair dominate proceedings, taking five race wins between them, with the outright lap record for the infamous 37 and ¾ mile long Mountain Course being obliterated in the process by both riders.

The Isle of Man’s population will swell by over 50% for two weeks again next June with an ever increasing number of motorcycle racing enthusiasts from all corners of the world expected to converge on the small Island in the middle of the Irish Sea to see Hutchinson and Dunlop continue their epic battle for TT supremacy.

However, with a host of former winners and up and coming hopefuls also expected to feature on the entry lists, they will not have it all their own way, with veteran campaigners John McGuinness and Bruce Anstey who have 23 and 11 wins to their names respectively, leading the charge against their younger rivals.

British Superbike Championship star Peter Hickman is just one of those looking to open his account in 2017. Still the fastest ever TT Newcomer, Hickman has built up his knowledge and experience over the past three years and is ready to fight for those coveted trophies. Meanwhile, having recorded three podium finishes apiece during 2016, Dean Harrison and James Hillier will be serious threats in all classes.

Other star names in the mix include local favourites Conor Cummins and Dan Kneen, Australian challengers David Johnson, Cameron Donald and the returning Josh Brookes, Irishmen Lee Johnston and William Dunlop, two-time TT winner Gary Johnson, veteran campaigner Michael Rutter and Lightweight ace Ivan Lintin.

TT 2017 commences with a week of qualifying getting underway on Saturday

27th May. The race schedule will open with the RST Superbike TT Race on Saturday 3rd June and anticipation will be skyhigh following Michael Dunlop’s blistering sub-17 minute lap posted in last year’s corresponding race.

The opening race day schedule also sees the first of two Sure Sidecar TT Races with brothers Ben and Tom Birchall the team to beat having broken the outright lap record for sidecars. Five more recent race winners are expected to line up against the Birchall brothers with seventeen time TT winner Dave Molyneux, last year’s Sidecar Champion John Holden, multiple World Sidecar Champion Tim Reeves and the irrepressible Conrad Harrison all expected to feature at the front of the race.

Monday 5th June features the now traditional double solo race day, A packed day’s entertainment on Wednesday’s 7th June gets underway with the second Monster Energy Supersport TT Race, followed by the Bennetts Lightweight TT Race and concluding with the high tech, high spec, SES TT Zero Race for zero emissions machines.

TT 2017 will culminate with the ‘Championship Day’ on Friday 9th June, which sees the outright solo and sidecar champions crowned. The action gets underway with the second Sure Sidecar TT Race, followed by the traditional finale; the PokerStars Senior TT Race.

Last year’s dramatic climax lived up to expectations as an enormous trackside audience saw the Birchall brothers take the sidecar race honours and firmly establish themselves as the crew to beat in 2017. Meanwhile, Michael Dunlop again turned on the style in the PokerStars Senior TT, destroying the entire field and posting new lap and race records in the process.

The Isle of Man TT is a truly unique and awesome spectacle that has no equal and no substitute. Excitement, glory, disappointment and despair; the TT has it all.

If you are a fan of motorsport in its purest form, the Isle of Man is the only place to be in 2017.

2017 Isle of Man TT Dates: May 27th June 9th

19 19––The TheMotorcycle MotorcycleTimes, Times,December December2016 2016

Tommy Hill puts 2016 ePayMe Yamaha Superbike up for sale If you want to own the a championshipwinning MCE British Superbike, now’s your chance. Tommy Hill has put up for sale John Hopkins official ePayMe Yamaha R1 Superbike from this season and it is the one on which Josh Brookes took the 2015 title with Milwaukee Yamaha.

Built with Official Yamaha Racing parts, Factory Ohlins suspension, factory wiring looms and 2D Carbon Fibre Loom Boxes It’s the best R1 for sale in the industry right now. Full of Official Yamaha parts which unavailable to the public.

The race bike will also come with a spares package worth around $8,400 Cdn. Wheels, discs, Tyres, fairings and much more. It has just had an engine refresh, a brand new Frame, along with brand new engine mount bolts - plus renewed bearings and brand new official Yamaha down pipes.

Also included are race fuel mapping, data sheets and setup sheets, gearing. Original cost was around £62,000 but it’s priced at £42,000.00 for a quick sale.

That converts to about $70,560 Canadian dollars folks.

Final Top 15 2016 MotoGP Championship Standings

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December 2016, The Motorcycle Times – 20

TheOtherside Mix - 0/35/85/0

david rusk

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

It’s 1978 and it’s dark. And it’s cold. Eastern Canada winter night windy, bitter kind of cold. I’m 12 years old and thinking “I’m scared. I’m f-f-freezing, my toes hurt and it’s a steep hill full of creepy shadows“ Charging from below out of the darkness crystalline snow stings my face and my eyelids keep freezing shut.

Somethings wrong. “I’m going way too fast! It’s icy! I can’t see. Too fast! Too fast!“ and with a sinking realization “Oh no, ice.“ Behind me a girl is shouting into the wind “Turn! Weight the downhill ski. Look ahead.

Look ahead!“ But I’m locked in on my wildly slapping ski tips, petrified of the crash that waits just moments away.

Mingled in the wind comes “Look up kid!

Look ahead“. But her desperate coaching was useless against the terror. I did manage to break my eyes away but a moment of looking into the biting darkness ahead blew the breakers. It was too late and I hadn’t learned the secret yet, so I fell.

Tumbling I scraped my frozen face on the ice and as my touque flew off in search of my left ski, I glimpsed the instructor and class of tiny frozen nuggets hunkered under a rare flood light. My young crazy mind imagined us on Everest, my climbing party watching in horror as I slid free of the rope and down the couloir into the dark.

There just wasn’t enough computing power left, I had a total system crash. I simply didn’t have the wherewithal to look ahead and discover the groove. That magical time vortex where the world slows and your brain continues full steam ahead.

As the winters passed I found myself cranking high speed turns and mastering the techniques of racing. But without training my eyes and mind, I would have still been plowing snow on the bunny hill.

Then I discovered motorcycles and my skiing days were over. Apparently, death defying fast down a hill flirting with the edge of control while wearing nothing but a winter coat wasn’t dangerous enough. Gravity was stomped by internal combustion.

You go where you look. We’ve all heard or read it and if your reading this, then you understand. At least to some extent, enough to remain alive. But do you grasp how misleading these words really are?

Let’s jump to the spring of ’82. I’m 16 and standing beside my older brother Jim as we listen to the Motorcycle Foundation Safety instructor in a sunny parking lot. A lot containing a single street light post surrounded by a small grass island with a curb.

“OK, who here has ridden before, hands up?“ Just a couple older folks, one being a lady in her late 30’s answered the call. We had already been shown the important stuff

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Discipline about our tiny enduro’s and then the teacher says it. The handful of words capable of hypnotic suggestion. “Everyone look at that light post in the middle out there. Got it? “ Um ya, duh.

“OK class I can almost guarantee that someone is going to ride straight into that post“. Really? I glanced at Jim and got a furrowed brow with a wink as a reply. “Look at it class and whatever you do, DO NOT RIDE INTO THAT POLE“.

Engines running and in first gear already we’re told to let the clutch out. Half buck to a stop stalled out and the other half pause to watch that poor middle aged woman puttputt out of the line up and proceed to amaze us all. Including the instructor, who immediately began trotting towards the predetermined crash site.

Starting out going away from the light we all watched as her eyes found it and turning her head 45° she implemented the perfect counter steer turn, lined it all up and then snapped that bike upright like a pro. Then at a stately 5 kph with feet firmly on the pegs she placed that skinny front tire dead center on the post and cartoon like, just fell over. I heard a “boing” in my head and as she picked herself up she exclaimed “I don’t know what happened.“ I knew what happened, what gripped her so tight that it took over. It was the monster I saw in the dark of that ski hill.

2002 October and the fast end of our group waits for me to gear up outside the Maynooth restaurant. Al, Mike, Lee and myself at ease standing still talking or north of 200 in a tight group. We had long outgrown immaturity and recklessness, our mantra was precision, intelligence and trust.

We knew where our line waited in the dark of our minds and on the street we never purposely stepped over it.

Ready for the return leg we gained three young riders to our group. Introductions were made as we got ready, to inform and if needed warn our young additions. Al the retired pro racer talked of duels with Steve Crevier. Mike and I shared tales of being at speed on a track and Lee regaled of MX battles and race wins. They looked impressed but as we got into the groove on Elephant Lake Road the threat revealed itself.

We knew we had to distance ourselves and of course Al was first to escape decisive and safe, followed by Mike and Lee. Blocked by the newcomers I held my urge in check until a safe opportunity.

Rattled by the flash and sound of my friends breaking free, I sensed their unpredictability. Thumbs up all around so I nodded and sped off in search of the pack. I was about to learn that my eyes and mind were not as disciplined as I thought.

I was pushing to see my three partners ahead but my mind wasn’t fully commit-

ted. I was still concerned that our young tag alongs would overstep their own lines while trying to keep up.

The bare forest raced by and the entry to the right turn was upon me. No need to brake experience told me, just roll off a bit and push the right bar with the correct force.

My RC 51 exuded stiff confidence under me as we knifed to my requested angle. There, perfect.

“Oh sh*t !“ As I rolled in I realized that the turn continued to curve back on it self. Why hadn’t I seen that, why were my eyes not looking far enough ahead! “Sh*t !“ Amazing how quick the mind can think but at my speed quick equated to almost too many meters travelled down the road.

Poised between crashing and making it I froze. My mind clicked from the slow motion of the groove to the bizarre sensations of warp speed. A scream leapt into my throat where it was choked into a grunt.

An instant of panic. An instant to decide my course of action. An instant to live or die from. An instant in which a life of training took command and dumped me from a system crash back to the groove in an instant that was almost too long.

In that frozen moment, that hyper freak out I not only broke free from the paralysis of my Line but recalculated a thousand factors and managed to apply the insane amount of additional lean angle needed to carve that corner. I waited for the tires to reject what I had just asked of them but they never even squirmed. Track compound on the street?

Why yes, think I will.

The moment I regained control of my mind, my eyes found the exit and then the apex as they scanned back towards the bike and the world slowed. Suddenly I had lots of time and my race bred machine shrugged off my harsh input fell onto its side and railed through, wanting more. “Is that all you got?” it asked. Why yes, at the moment it is.

Now the difficult part of my story. How do I describe to you the complex task of training your mind to deal with a total system crash.

We have all been told “You go where you look“ as a rule encompassing all things mobile and of course its 100% true but it’s also 100% misinformation. When you do just that your brain becomes fixated on the target and you head straight for what ever you are trying to avoid.

The well meaning elder to the kid “Well Sonny, just remember you go where you look“. How about something like “Wear the proper gear Sonny because you go where you look, right before you crash into what your looking at.”

It’s not you go where you look, that’s secondary. In fact it becomes meaningless if you don’t figure out the first thing that you must do. Get that wrong and there won’t be

anymore decision making, at least until after the crash and if your still thinking. The first hurdle is looking away from where you’re going. I’ll say that again but with context.

Ok, here you are on you’re favorite road and you wrongly choose to whack it open on that long straight. Do you not feel the bad vibes as you click up through the gears? Oh well, you may just learn something because wholly sh*t! you just entered a corner while still at faster then light speed! Things happen fast at 250, eh?

Now the panic comes and if you get this wrong the pain comes also. The road is turning and you’re not, yet. I’ll guarantee that your target fixated on the outside shoulder or the ditch, or maybe that oncoming car that shouldn’t be on your personal racetrack but is.

With eyes bulging you instantly realize that you are going where you are looking and it is so bad. What are you made of. Have you used your life properly, have you trained?

Here is my advice. Look away from where you’re going and then look where you want to go. And practise.

Easy to tell you because I know what it took for me to learn and part of it was the hard way. Practise is a simply word with such an astronomical meaning. It entails countless parameters but it’s your eyes and mind today.

Practise looking ahead but not just there scan forward and back, never stopping.

Look at the road, is it dry? What’s the camber. Is that a splash of engine oil on your line?

Look at the apex, at the exit and far beyond the exit, is there debris ahead? Feel yourself falling into the turn too fast? Then scan back to the bike taking note of the apex. Has it moved? Practise using your peripheral vision to make your awareness complete. It is literally impossible to list all that we must think about and what we must see, but think it and see it we must.

Bounce your attention from threat to threat never pausing to long and when the panic comes and tries to paralyze, you will be able to break free and save yourself.

But trust me, this is a learning process?, it’s going to hurt. Hopefully it will just leave a scar on your psyche but like so many of us, learning of the system crash could very well leave scars on your person as well.

2016 August north of Peterborough and the aging superbike feels sublime and lithe under me as I slowly reacquaint my mind and eyes to the groove. My fifty year old body still contorts enough to fit and any lingering pains vanish into the wind.

The liter V- twin thumps as I focus on the world and on the road. With my eyes searching and my mind far ahead, I anticipate meeting the monster soon enough.

I practise.

Mix - 0/35/85/0

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21 – The Motorcycle Times, December 2016

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December 2016, The Motorcycle Times – 22

CommunityEvents Mix - 0/35/85/0

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With over 500 exhibitors and over 1,000 motorcycles on display. The attendees, come to shop, explore and take in everything that’s new in Motorcycling. In addition to the unveiling of the new Motorcycles the Motorcycle Supershow has a display of Motorcycles, Non-current and Pre-owned Bikes, Aftermarket Parts and Accessories, Rider Apparel and Helmets, Performance Equipment, Trailers, Travel Destinations, Custom Bike Builders, and a full range of Leather Fashions. Set in an atmosphere of fun and excitement, the Motorcycle Supershow also offers a full weekend of entertainment on 3 stages, including special guests, live bands, custom bike displays, and fashion shows, as well as more than 100 clubs, rallies and rides on display. http://www.motorcyclesupershow.ca you automatically receive the $3 off coupon. If you are purchasing tickets else where, you can email them to receive your $3 off coupon. Coupon is only valid for Fri or Sat between 5-9pm.

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23 – The Motorcycle Times, December 2016

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