The Motorcycle Times - June 2013

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ISDE - Meet Team Canada

Ever found yourself scratching your head wondering why your ‘new’ tire didn’t last nearly as long as your last one did.

When given the opportunity to represent my country at an international event it was a no-brainer.

Flying at ground level is thrilling but only if you manage the risks and know that reaching beyond the sweet spot...

Willie G. Davidson Living the dream of two-wheeled freedom

by PETER BAILEY vision for the coming decades.

Confident, erect and full of his characteristic Contributing Writer - TMT Harley-Davidson’s chief styling officer has retired after 49 years, but he still keeps his hand in motorcycle design During his retirement soiree from HarleyDavidson last April, chief designer Willie G. Davidson gave a stirring speech in which he summarized his years at the company and its

vitality, Davidson outlined his simple design philosophy: “Form follows function, but both report to emotion.”

Those words sum up the ideas behind the motorcycle designs Davidson had a hand in crafting during his 49 years with the company.

“I was 29 years old when I got the chance to join the motor company,” Davidson told his

audience. “So it was a dream come true.”

Most of us dream of a job that allows us creative freedom to do the things we love while offering a chance to make a difference. Davidson, 79, lived that dream.

As a young man he studied his craft and worked his way up in the family business – his father is former Harley-Davidson president William H. Davidson and grandson of company cofounder William A. Davidson.

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Now as Harley-Davidson’s designer emeritus, he is credited with changing not only the face of American motorcycling, but has had the good fortune to live long enough to enjoy the admiration and gratitude of his millions of fans.

Styling and designing are an art and he admitted the work required a “sixth sense.”

The final decisions come down to the designer, although the see p.3

June 2013, The Motorcycle Times – 2

FX Super Glide The 1971 FX Super Glide was essentially the company’s first factory custom. It combined a sporty XL series-like front end with the frame and powertrain from the FL series. The Super Glide set the stage for a series of derivative models, yet it is still considered one of the most important motorcycles in terms of style to ever come out of Milwaukee.

Café Racer With its small fairing, low handlebars and blacked-out paint design, the Café Racer was a distinctive departure and a legendary contributor to the company’s lineup. It was available in 1977 and 1978. Although considered by some to be a rare misstep, Forbes Magazine called it a “classic, and one of the most belatedly influential bikes Harley ever produced.”

Fat Boy The Fat Boy and the Fat Boy Lo are two more easily recognizable Harley-Davidson creations that have legions of fans. Their distinctive looks typify American motorcycle design.

FXDB Dyna Harley-Davidson unveiled the “Dyna” series in 1991, with the FXDB Dyna Glide Sturgis.

Various sources indicate the Dynas are noted for their riding feedback and feature larger, rubber-mounted V-twin engines, visible coilover shocks and exposed battery boxes. For the 2012 model year, no fewer than five Dyna models are available.

V-Rod Harley-Davidson’s first combined overhead cams and fuel injection to put out 115 horsepower. Unveiled in 2001 after being in development for six years, the V-Rod was also the first Harley to produce 115 horses right out of the box.

“I wanted this vehicle to have that type of presence, where you’d walk up to it and say, ‘That’s a Harley-Davidson, wow!’ ” Davidson later explained.

XL1200N Nightster From 2007, combined LED tail/brake/indicator lights trimmed-down components, fork gaiters, 11-inch shocks, baloney cut silencers and a side-mounted licence plate holder.

In a 2012 interview, Davidson had the following to say about the mechanical fluidity and technology required by modern motorcycles: “When I think of motor cycle, those two words, it’s really an engine and a wheel. Some of the prettiest motorcycles in the world are dirt-track bikes, which are just an engine and a set of wheels. Function has to lead, but what’s neat about Harley-Davidson is the engineers work hand in hand with my team so we can come up with the best combination that’s both visually acceptable and meets all the criteria for function,” he said.

“So, there are certain necessary things that will be designed into the motorcycle. The ABS pickup in the center of the front hub is a good example. It was minimized to not detract from the beauty of the wheel.”

3 – The Motorcycle Times, June 2013

continued from cover development is a team effort.

“You have to know when to say no as well as when to say yes,” he said.

That knowledge comes from decades of experience and the right education and training.

A graduate of the University of Wisconsin, he later studied at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena. Following that, he worked in the design department at the Ford Motor Company before joining Harley-Davidson in 1963.

His ideas and designs soon began to shake up the establishment-types in the company.

In the fullness and irony of time, what was once regarded as radical is now accepted widely as classic, bold and distinctively American motorcycle design.

He was instrumental in designing six distinctive models for the company during his 49-year career.

Willie G. Davidson (right) shown with the ‘original thirteen’ who bought the company from AMF in 1981.

And what role will liquid cooling play in Harley-Davidson’s future?

“There are certain advantages to a liquidcooled engine,” he said. “We’re well aware of that. But there’s a certain visual about a HarleyDavidson that’s recognized and really loved and embraced by a lot of people. We want to maintain that look. The V-Rod doesn’t need fins.

That engine could look like a water pump. But no, it’s a beautiful engine, right? If you’re going to transition, it should be something that still visually connects; you can’t go from round to square. A radiator is a very difficult thing to design around, but we faired it in on that V-Rod, so it’s a fairly nice shape. As designers, we can probably handle either direction, but we just need to be very cautious.”

Now well past the age when most other workers hang up their tools, Davidson said he plans to continue working for the company as an ambassador of Harley products. He will reportedly also spend time developing special design projects.

Davidson has earned his place in the halls of motorcycle legends, just as his company has earned its place in America motorcycle history.

One hundred and ten years is a major milestone for any company, but through its ups and downs, Harley-Davidson has continually provided means for riders young and old, male and female, from all over the globe to experience the thrill of the open road, of solitary insight into their own being and the wider world around them.

As Davidson said in his retirement speech: “For our riders, a Harley-Davidson is much more than a machine. It’s a journey; it’s an adventure; it’s smoke ‘em ‘till the wheels fall off!”

For more information on Harley-Davidson’s 110th anniversary celebrations and the 30th anniversary of H.O.G. in Milwaukee, Wis., Aug. 29-Sept. 1, 2013, featuring an all-star lineup of Hall of Fame rock ‘n’ rollers, go to: http://110.harley-davidson.com/en_CA/ events/milwaukee2013

June 2013, The Motorcycle Times – 4

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

SCOTT MACDONALD Editor, The Motorcycle Times

Do it your way I have been a rider for the better part of a decade. I remember many of the reasons why I got into riding in the first place but the most important one of all was so that my wife and I could enjoy something together. Motorcycling for us was about spending time together away from our families, our kids and our hectic schedules.

It was a way to reconnect with each other. For the first few years, we rode two upon a 650 and never gave it a second thought. We travelled all over the province and although not many words were spoken while on the bike, we enjoyed each others company.

As the years rolled by, we enjoyed time spent with many interesting folks who also rode and made many friends through our time as members of a local social riding club.

Eventually my wife got her license and her own ride and now we simply ride together, at our pace, on our own terms. As a writer for this newspaper I spend a fair amount of time trying to sort out in my mind, what it all means to me.

Is there a meaning, or do I just like to ride? I don’t buy into the freedom of the open road because I don’t believe it really exists in the way riders think it exists. For the hippies of a generation ago, maybe that idealism did exist in some form, maybe motorcycles and recreational drugs just happened to have something to do with it at that time, but I think those days are long gone.

So what is riding all about then? If it’s not for experiencing the freedom of the open road

or some other idealistic excuse. Each of us has our own reasons. For me, it’s much more about enjoying some memories of my youth. The motorcycle for me today is really no more than the bicycles I had as a child. It provides me with a means to explore my surroundings and expand my own universe while at the same time enjoying the sights and sounds that are synonymous with summer.

As a child, I would spend countless hours over summer break riding my CCM Mustang. It would take me from my neighbourhood in Mississauga to parts unknown. Even today, I still look back on a particular ride I took at the end of one summer break. It was a Saturday, the CNE was coming to an end and the air-show was about to begin. I rode from my home in Mississauga to the CNE grounds, watched the air-show and continued up Yonge Street to Bloor and back to Mississauga, stopping along the way for lunch and the occasional can of Tahiti Treat. I was alone and enjoyed every second of that day.

My motorcycle is a lot like that bicycle from decades ago. I don’t really need a destination to enjoy a day’s riding, and I don’t have to put a thousand miles on my motorcycle to feel like I have accomplished something. Some of my best days on my bike may have only accumulated little more than a hundred and fifty kms on the odometer. It’s what I experienced that matters more to me.

I hear all the stories of the long trips south, or

west, where someone has endured days on the road, exposed to face numbing cold or the pain of rain stinging your cheeks at highway speeds just to ‘one-up’ a fellow rider. The only thing that says to me is that you don’t have enough sense to get out of the rain. But, if that’s your thing, please don’t let me stop you.

For me, the ideal long ride would be to the warmer climates in the spring or late fall. I would much rather tailer my motorcycle south to somewhere like Ft. Lauderdale or Daytona and enjoy the warm rays on my face as I ride the causeways through the Florida Keys. For me, that’s a good ride, but for me to understand that, it has taken me the journey of a decade of riding. Now, I can be honest with myself and others about what riding means to me. I don’t have to play the games that go along with memberships in some riding clubs, I don’t have to ride on someone else’s schedule or live up to their expectations.

I ride what I like to ride, not because someone told me it was a good choice. I wear the clothing I want to wear while I ride, because It makes me feel safe. My helmet choice depends on many factors, but I have one helmet of each style from half to full-face so I have that choice.

I am not here to profess or impose my values on you as a rider, you can follow the crowd like so many do, or you can choose to do it your way, on your terms and be an individual rather just another ‘biker’.

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MotorcycleNews Indian motorcycle maker makes an overseas sales push

Ian Bentley, prostate cancer survivor. Photograph by Dax Melmer, The Windsor Star

Motorcycle Ride For Dad rolls out life-saving message Hundreds of rumbling motorcycles rolled through Essex County Sunday for the ninth-annual Windsor Telus Motorcycle Ride For Dad. “It’s very empowering,” said Ride For Dad chair Sue Garrett. “It’s 800 bikes starting up at the same time. It’s a loud thunder that comes through here.”

The yearly ride raises funds for prostate cancer research and medical equipment, while boosting awareness of the disease.

Garrett said Windsor-Essex has always shown great support for the event because most people diagnosed in the area have to travel to Hamilton for treatment because of the lack of equipment here.

“If we get this men’s awareness program here and they see the funds coming in for that, they know in the future everybody gets to stay here with their family and get the treatment right here at home with the latest technology,” said Garrett.

For prostate cancer survivor Ian Bentley, funding local facilities would have made his battle a lot easier.

He was diagnosed with prostate cancer in March 2009 but wasn’t able to get surgery until

November of that year in London.

“It’s hard enough when you’ve got the big C,” said Bentley, adding having to travel for treatment only adds more stress.

This was Bentley’s sixth Ride For Dad. He got emotional when he talked about how the ride provides support for survivors like him.

Besides raising much-needed funds for prostate cancer research and treatment, awareness is also a cornerstone to the motorcycle campaign, promoting early detection of the disease.

Bentley said he didn’t have any obvious symptoms and at first doctors thought he had a minor infection.

“It’s so prevalent. It’s the No. 1 cancer for men, but you don’t know you’ve got it - that’s the hard part. So you have to get tested then make informed decisions from there,” said Bentley.

“Trying to get men’s awareness is a big thing.

Guys don’t go to doctors. The annual ride has raised $500,000 locally since it began nine years ago. Garrett said she hopes this year’s ride will bring in $80,000.

The local Ride For Dad is part of a national campaign taking place in more than 30 cities across Canada .

Canadian motorcycle riders back zero BAC for all riders TORONTO, May - 85,000 members represented by the Motorcycle Confederation of Canada and the Canadian Motorcycle Association would support a zero blood alcohol level for all riders as an administrative regulation. Such measures have been successfully carried out for new drivers and for young drivers (21 and under for example in Ontario).

“If motorcycle riders ride while impaired they will most likely not reach home, even a short distance away. The first alcohol drink starts the effects on balance and coordination, critical for riding.” David Stewart retired police officer and presenter at the conference.

A three point public policy statement released by MCC- Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada in January 2013 also called for other safety initiatives to lower the frequency crash rate for motorcycles especially towards car driver education in recognizing motorcycles on our roads.

Delegates at the 23rd. Canadian Multidisciplinary Road Safety Conference at the Hyatt Regency in Montreal May 26th - 29th. will hear presentations on this and similar legislative, scientific and program related concepts for improving road safety.

1963 Merivale rd., Ottawa | 613-736-8899 | www.hdottawa.com

MUMBAI, INDIA - The Indian maker of Royal Enfield, the Second World War-era British motorcycle owned by stars including Brad Pitt, plans to export the vehicles to Southeast Asia and Latin America as it builds on record sales at home.

Eicher Motors Ltd. is predicting more demand in emerging markets for mid-sized bikes with an engine capacity of 250 to 650 cubic centimeters as people become more affluent, Managing Director Siddhartha Lal said in an interview. Eicher, which acquired control of Enfield India in 1993 and revived the almost-bankrupt unit, is seeking to increase the share of revenue from two-wheelers from 16 percent of the $1.2 billion it reported in the year to Dec. 31, 2012, he said.

“Mid-sized bikes are ideal for these markets as they are reasonably fuel-efficient, maneuverable and not too much more expensive,” Lal said in his office located in Eicher’s glass and steel headquarters in Gurgaon near New Delhi. “There are markets that aren’t conducive to big bikes and the mid-sized market is underserved.”

The company is planning to expand the

motorcycle business after reporting the best quarter at its Enfield unit, where sales rose 45 percent in the three months ended March 31. Eicher, which earns the remaining 84 percent of its revenue from trucks it makes in partnership with Volvo, said a key gauge of its profitability beat all local rivals in 2012 amid the slowest pace of economic growth in a decade.

Tonight Show host Jay Leno and musician Billy Joel are also among the owners of Royal Enfield, according to official websites.

The company last month opened its first new motorcycle factory in almost six decades; it can build 150,000 units annually.

That capacity will be expanded to 250,000 in 2014, as Eicher looks to pare waiting lists that average eight months, Lal said.

The company has its products planned for the next 10 years, Lal said, as Eicher targets more customers beyond Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore.

“Now, we’re firing on all cylinders,” says Lal. “To me, what’s relevant is that in the top mid-size motorcycle markets in the world, we must be No. 1 or No. 2.”

A quarter million motorcycles roll into D.C. as part of Rolling Thunder On Sunday, the 25th anniversary of Rolling Thunder took place in Washington D.C. with more than a quarter million motorcycles taking part to honor U.S. veterans and those classified as “Missing in Action”; approximately 900,000 of those riders traveled from all over the country to pay their respects on this Memorial Day weekend.

The event first began in 1988 to call attention to those M.I.A.’s and suspected Prisoners of War from the Vietnam War and had approximately 2,500 riders; it has since become an annual tradition growing ever stronger.

“There is no sound like it,” said Benjamin Iles.

“We will never forget!”

And Joan Ancy says, “I don’t know if you’ve ever seen bikers ride by en mass, but this gives

you a crazy pride feeling inside and it’s a beautiful tribute by the bikers.”

Every type of motorcycle was represented from vintage to BMW’s; however, the majority of riders continue to be Harley-Davidson bikes.

Motorcycle clubs and riding groups from all around the country were represented and hotels and campgrounds were filled to capacity.

The procession began in the parking lot of the Pentagon at 7:00 a.m. and the parade route took riders past the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Korean Veterans Memorial, and the World War II Veterans Memorial. The Washington Monument was just one of the other prominent fixtures that the riders rode past before they ended the ride on the National Mall on the banks of the Potomac River.

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7 – The Motorcycle Times, June 2013

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June 2013, The Motorcycle Times – 8

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More Art than Science LARRY TSAO: I purchased a used 2004 BMW R1200C Montauk after about 10 years without a motorcycle. It was the itch that never went away. I should have been content with my new bike, but I wanted to try my hand at building a sidecar rig.

My goal was to create a detachable sidecar that will give me two rides in one. I eventually found and purchased a used sidecar from a 2006 Ural. I was committed to this DIY project and wanted to complete the assembly over the winter and take it for a ride by spring.

The real challenges for me were: I have never welded or fabricated before; and I had no idea how. After all, my day job is working behind a desk in an office.

The Internet became my most valuable resource. I spent countless hours researching online and learned to weld; bend pipe; lathe and machine parts. I borrowed time on tools I did not own or home built tools like a pipe bender.

Online sidecar forums provided great inspiration and guidance.

It was clear that the sidecar geometry was critical to a successful build. Toe in; camber; sidecar tire lead; track; and weight were just some of the variables that impact safe drivability. Several theories and mathematical

...hey, got a second?

models exist but it ultimately comes down to just getting it close and fine tuning with trial and error.

The aluminum boxer engine of the BMW is the main structural member of the bike with very few places to mount anything to it. It’s important to note that BMW does not endorse attaching sidecars to their bikes. I had to fabricate a sub-frame that braces both sides of the motorcycle (front back & below) to secure the sidecar. Bending and snaking the pipes to form the sub-frame was more art than science.

I fabricated and welded dozens of parts in my garage that winter. I was obsessed and grateful that my family afforded me this distraction.

The frenzy of activity; sparks flying and noises every night from my garage must have made my neighbours curious and worried. After 4 months, I had a competed assembly. Undoing just four bolts and one electrical connection allowed me to separate the sidecar from the bike. The initial test ride was a success and one of my most rewarding experiences. The sidecar is an absolute joy to ride and it’s now attached to the bike most of the time.

Ingenuity, patience and a little knowledge goes a long way. Good to see you stepped out of your comfort zone and did such a great job. -TMT

Have you been wrenching on a project. Send us some before and after photo’s; a little info about what you’ve been up to and we’ll make you famous. Ok, maybe not that famous. Email your pics/story to: readers@themotorcycletimes.ca

Friday the 13th in Port Dover

July 2012

training wheels Bike tour through Morocco KIMBERLEE ANNA TAPLAY

an eye opening experience Full Circle Contributing Writer - TMT

By Heather Walters

J

GIVE YOUR MOTORCYCLE IT’ S OWN MANCAVE

to get used to was the bike itself – a BMW

“The wheel come full circle…” instead ofis their familiar Harley.

Once they William Shakespeare Simcoe got a feel for that, they were off.

oanne and Rob Perttula of have taken their Harley on several trips, across Ontario, I don’troad know exactly howNorthern many muscles there throughout parts of Canada andI are in the human body, but I’m pretty sure across a good many of the states. managed to use all of them on the first weekWhen a friend casually mentioned an end in May. Use them, and then crawl into bed when I got home listen to (and feel) their interesting tour and was being organized angry protests all night long that Saturday through the North African country of Moand Sunday. rocco, they decided to contact a UK motorI. Was. Hurting. cycle tour company called Motocadia and It was a good kindwere of hurt. sortfor of literally the wheels setAinhappy motion hurt.

The kind of hurt that has everyone around a ride they would never forget. you wondering limping around Morocco is onwhy the you’re continent of Africa, with a great, big, cheesy grin on your face. officially the Kingdom of Morocco, Al Those OMSA instructors really put us through Maghrib. A population of nearly 44 milour paces that weekend. I remember the class lion, its coast reaches from the Atlantic grinning during the Friday night’s classroom Ocean, Straits Gibraltar session past whenthe they told usofthat by noonand on into the Mediterranean.

It has internationSaturday we would all be riding around an alobstacle borderscourse with in Algeria, Spain and Maurifirst gear, standing on our tania to the south. bikes’ footpegs, and touching our heads with Their began Malaga, one handjourney while having theinother hand Spain on the where clutch. they collected their tour bikes, met their tour Wefollow laughed.

Outriders, loud. and prepared to I’macross sure they chuckling quietly to themferry towere Ceuta, Morocco. selves at our reaction.

A good kind chuckle.

Rob said that the first thingofthey hadA happy sort of chuckle. The kind of chuckle that only motorcycle course instructors do, knowing that by the end of Sunday afternoon, they would have this group of motorcycling virgins zooming around the parking lot and growing more confident with each passing hour.

Fourteen out of the twenty-two people in the class had never even been on or operated a motorcycle before walking into the classroom that weekend. If they were as nervous as I was, they certainly weren’t showing it.

From navigating figure eights to learning how to gear up and shift down to driving over car tires and jumping small ramps, we did it all.

Some of us were more graceful at it than others. One of us did a wheelie or two (something that was not exactly planned) and there were several in the class who dropped their bikes or had their bikes drop them (yes, that’s me in the corner, sheepishly raising my hand).

That’s right; KAT took a motorcycle course and now holds her M2 licence. Not only did I pass the course, I’ve already bought my first motorcycle. So much for ‘training wheels’ – there are now actual wheels, and they belong to a sweet little ruby-red 2007 VStar 650 Custom. At last! The MZKAT personalized licence plate I bought myself for Christmas has a place to call home.

It has been an interesting journey, to say the least.

A little more than a year ago, I got brave enough to bring one of my bucket list wishes out into the open and start the work that needed to be done to make it a reality. I began the process of educating myself about ‘the world’ I wanted to be a part of and did everything from read industry magazines to hit motorcycle shows to talk to anyone and everyone who was willing to share their own story with me.

Oh sure, there were some who questioned this ‘sudden interest’ of mine, even going so far as to call me some not-so-nice names and label me a ‘poser’. I took it in stride, although I have to admit that I was hurt. Hurt, but even

This type of tour is not for the novice rider rather, it istocalled “spirited more –determined succeed in spite riding,” of them. forI those with considerable as wrote about my journey experience in my regular, both the terrain and culture provided exweekly newspaper column with Sun Media. citing challenges.

I joined the writing team at The Motorcycle Joanne about culTimes and talked began to sharethe myfirst story.real I spoke with new friends andthey old friends happily tural experience came alike, across, as surprised and disembarked infinitely delighted howferry. welsoon as they fromatthe coming thethe brother and crossing sisterhoodpaperwork of riders are Although border when it comes to someone who understands had already been arranged for by the tour, and shares passion. each of thetheir many border guards took their I’ve met some amazingthe people alongwith the turns “helping expedite process” way: the folks at the Canadian Vintage Motoran open hand and obvious bribe. Luckily, cycle Museum; musical groups (The Divorcees, they had already been instructed to carry The Dan Lawson Band) and bike builders (Timo only small bills in their wallets, and “to Richard); couples who shared their stories about never, ever, give up your passport!” It was what riding together means to them and their also strange and and slightly unsettling to relationships; vibrant amazing women from both Canadians to witness so many armed all walks of life who have embraced the world troops machinethemselves guns patrolling the of ridingwith and immerse in it on their area, but they passed through without inown terms; the wonderfully supportive and cident and the adventure began. knowledgeable instructors from OMSA (thanks Each the twowho week tour, they Jen, Chris,day Johnofand Steve) convinced this travelled a good – between girl she could push distance through the course, rise250 to meet300 its miles. challenges, hobble the front of and Rob and stated that to between the

the classroom to accept her course completion certificate and her ‘graduation’ papers; and the many, many others (from TMT facebook friends to fans of my regular newspaper column to members of riding clubs to business owners to complete strangers) who took the time to write, share, encourage, support and cheer me on.

Full circle.

I’ve come to the end of my beginning.

This is the last edition of ‘Training Wheels’.

As you read this column, I have just made it through the process of navigating the somewhat confusing world of motorcycle insurance, and I have begun my education in bike maintenance.

I’m attempting to muster up the courage to go beyond my firmly established riding route that consists of down the street, into the parking lot of the church at the corner, around and around and around the parking lot and then back up the street and home again.

I’m also making plans for ‘KAT’s Inaugural Ride into Dover’ this coming September.

There are so many places to go, so many roads to explore! From poker runs to fundraising events to Sunday afternoon ‘kickstands up at noon and let’s just go’ rides, I am looking forward to the next part of the journey.

Thanks to the folks at TMT who agreed to let me share my story with you over the past ten months; it has certainly been an interesting experience.

It’s June…and the riding season has begun in earnest. Be safe out there. Be aware out there.

And most of all, have fun out there.

To all my fellow Riders of the Wind: Here’s to the winding country roads waiting to be explored and the coffee stops along the way; To the fellow riders who truly support and encourage those who are new to this world; And here’s to sights and the sounds and the scents of the open road.

Happy Riding!

KAT out!

Fully insulated • Energy Efficient • Cost Effective • Mold & Water Resistant Rob and Joanne Perttula gas up at one of the roadside petrol stations along the • Light Weight • Lowalthough to No diesel Maintenance route. Gas was available at most stops, is much more commonly used in Morocco.

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places and towns of interest, the landscape is arid, rugged, with “little to see and no place to overnight.”

Having said that, he went on to say that putting the miles behind you was hardly uneventful. The scenery was beautiful and spectacular in every way, from the Atlas Mountains, to rolling green hills, to the

red sand dunes of the Sahara Desert. They were able to cover a lot of ground quickly as the roads were nearly deserted (to own a car in Morocco is most unusual and those that do are wealthy city dwellers), and the speed limit is “mostly just a suggestion.”

Roads were fairly good, from a biker’s point of view, although the mountain roads

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24

June 2013, The Motorcycle Times – 10

Special Feature

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Angle of Attack Flying Safely at Ground Level

by PAUL TOMASCIK Contributing Writer - TMT This is a technical article that may, at first blush, read like a science project but it’s really about reaching a literal tipping point in your riding; there is a point of “no return” that could result in a crash when a motorcycle is leaned over during a turn. Riding on the edge isn’t bad.

It teaches you the valuable lesson of smooth handling. Successful racers thrive on it but they also understand the physics of motorcycle riding. Pushing the envelope to find that edge without understanding what you or your machine are doing is foolhardy. In this case more knowledge can’t hurt you and hopefully will make you a better and safer rider who respects personal boundaries, environmental factors and your motorcycle’s mechanical capabilities.

You will also learn that riding a motorcycle and flying a plane have a lot in common.

Motorcycling has many parallels to flying.

Motorcyclists are often called “pilots.” Pilots fly; motorcyclists ride; neither of them “drive” their mounts. Pilots sit in cockpits and the collection of motorcycle ergonomics related to a rider’s seating is often referred to as a cockpit. In the big picture of motorized travel, pilot and rider communities represent two minority groups.

Errors in judgement, lack of preparation or inattention, when riding or flying, can lead to death.

Becoming an aviator takes a lot of study, time, practise and money; these investments continue beyond getting a pilot’s licence. If we’re honest with ourselves, becoming a “proficient” motorcyclist and maintaining competencies takes continuous learning, personal resources and ongoing practise.

Flying isn’t cheap but neither is motorcycling.

The money you spend in both sports is highly variable and dependent on a myriad of choices you make; preventive maintenance and insurance are only two “risk-management” costs that come to mind. The cost of some bikes is more than the cost of some light aircraft models. Nevertheless, most pilots and riders pursue their hobbies with a passion that makes life worth living. Many times you hear commercial and airline transport pilots saying that they have the best jobs in the world because they

don’t consider what they do as work. You have to agree that most, if not all motorcycle riders, love riding like pilots love flying.

Many pilots also ride motorcycles. Both pursuits are extremely fun and require a great deal of discipline to master smooth control of their machines. Realizing a dream to accomplish a skill defines character, perseverance and courage; flying and motorcycling bring the best out in people. Having the guts to try something new just adds to your strengths and makes you smarter. Many people — ones who don’t fly or ride as “pilots in command” — say flying and riding is dangerous; that could be true but good pilots of both genres have a healthy respect for their surroundings and practise “situational awareness” to anticipate and minimize issues before they become serious problems.

If “naysayers” get you down, think of Theodore Roosevelt’s famous quote: “It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.”

So as you can see, aviators and motorcycle riders have a lot in common — but valid comparisons can also be made between aircraft and motorcycle dynamics. A motorcycle’s rotating wheels and a plane’s spinning propeller have the same gyroscopic effects. Motorcycle riders exploit the tendencies of their “wheeled gyros” through deliberate counter-steering inputs to lean and turn at speed; airplane pilots must control the propeller’s gyroscopic outcomes which are most evident when turning, manipulating the throttle and pitching the plane’s nose up or down. The pilot’s rudder inputs

overcome the strong adverse forces generated from a rapidly spinning prop. A coordinated motorcycle turn fights centrifugal force by applying an equal countermeasure of centripetal force in the direction of turn. A coordinated turn in flight battles the same laws of physics and produces a balanced arc where the plane is neither skidding nor slipping. When a turn is executed flawlessly, the G-forces are handily under control; it’s beautiful to watch a steadily banked plane in flight or a bike leaned over in the middle of a turn at a constant speed solidly planted without its suspension wallowing and its track weaving.

This brings us to the title of this story. “Angle of attack” is an aviation term. It sounds ominous because ignoring it or not understanding its significance can lead to disaster. It is the angle at which the wings of a plane meet the relative air that it’s flying through. The pilot controls this angle by pulling back or pushing forward on the control stick or column. Each aircraft has a critical angle of attack at which point its wings lose the ability to generate lift. What does this have to do with motorcycling? It’s a phrase that can be applied to riding technique when leaned over in a turn to gauge the maximum angle of bank before you start to drift. If you flirt with the angle of attack and respect it at the same time you will get more enjoyment from your riding.

Pilots purposely enter the critical angle of attack all the time when they are flaring for landing to kill lift at the touchdown point. Aerobatic pilots take advantage of it in many of their manoeuvres. When it happens during normal flight the plane is said to “stall.” This doesn’t mean that the engine quits. In fact the vast majority of planes that do stall and crash have perfectly running engines. Most pilots who “accidently” stall their planes do so because they mismanage their controls. If this happens close to the ground there may not be enough time to recover and the results could be deadly.

There are no compromises in flying when it comes to this critical angle; if it is reached unexpectedly during flight — and no corrective actions are taken to lower the angle — the plane will crash. This applies to all winged aircraft: jet-fighters, airliners, light planes, hang-gliders;

there are no exceptions. There are other aggravating factors — engine power, angle of bank, airspeed, weight distribution and turbulence — where lift can be lost sooner or later but regardless of these, the plane’s wings will always stall at its critical angle of attack.

Leaning a motorcycle into a turn in some ways is a metaphor for aviation’s angle of attack.

The rider enters a turn and attacks it by applying enough force to overcome the tendency of the bike to continue in a straight line — but not too much of an attack that will result in a lean angle and throttle settings that overpower the tires’ capabilities to grip. In many ways motorcyclists face more challenges than fliers when approaching their critical angle of attack; the combination and variability of road, operator and mechanical factors will never give a rider clear indicators of certainty when the bike will go down.

There is a critical lean angle that can lead to a crash on a motorcycle when the recipe of speed, tire condition, road friction, load, centre of gravity, body position and operator control result in poor throttle manipulation, excessive braking, standing the bike up, running wide, skidding, low-siding or high-siding. It’s a complicated mélange of physical and response factors at play that can result in positive or negative outcomes. If you lose control in heavy traffic, close to rock outcrops, ditches, hydro poles — areas without safe runoffs — you can run into some unpleasant scenarios.

Once a bike is leaned over, the spinning wheels’ gyroscopic effect help keep it in that attitude. Watch a racing bike under powered thrust in an extreme lean angle with the front wheel off the ground; it’s the rigidity of the gyroscopic action in “space” of the turning wheels that keep the motorcycle leaned over and continued in the turn. The motorcycle has reached a point of equilibrium unless something or the rider upsets the balance. You can ride close to the critical angle of attack until you enter the danger zone, either inadvertently or intentionally, after which things get exciting in a hurry.

Flying at ground level is thrilling but only if you manage the risks and know that reaching beyond the sweet spot of your tipping point may yield a very bitter fruit. TMT

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Is your motorcycle protected enough from the bike straight out and into a truck. low-life’s out there that prefer to steal as opSecurity motion sensor lights are not the deposed to get a real job? It’s been said, that if a terrent they used to be as everyone has gotten thief wants your bike bad enough, they’ll get it, used to passing cars or a good wind activatno matter how good your security is. ing them, but they still light up a dark area and I will still continue to take as many precau- someone might spot suspicious activity. tions as possible, be extra diligent securing BikeSYSTEM locks/chains come in all shapes, weights VEHICLE STABILITY SEMI-AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION DYNAMICSTEERING POWER STEERING VEHICLEin STABILITY SYSTEM SEMI-AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION DYNAMIC POWER system No clutch or foot shifter here. required Adjusts required effort through An automotive-like systemAn automotive-like No clutch lever or foot shifterlever here.

Adjusts effort through my pride and joy and will do whatever it takes, and sizes—some are bullet proof, cut proof integrating stability, traction Yourup leftand thumb your acceleration, and steering integrating stability, traction Your left thumb shifts yourshifts up and acceleration, speed andspeed steering brakingsome forshifts an down. forefinger shifts down. With reverse. angle comfort data. Moreand comfort and anti-lock braking for and an anti-lock forefinger With reverse. angle data. More to eliminate the threat, or atand the very least, and even have audible tamper alarms improved control. incredibly confident ride. incredibly confident (Manualride. available) (Manual available) improved control. lessen it and make it harder to steal from me. I on them. Find one that works best for you and speak from experience, I have been burned for use it. A big thick steel chain or Cobra-Link lock VEHICLE STABILITY SYSTEM SEMI-AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION DYNAMIC POWER STEERING a couple of bikes over the years and although, great the garage, but weighs upwards An automotive-like system works No clutch lever in or foot shifter here.

Adjusts required effort through integrating stability, traction Your left thumb shifts up and your acceleration, speed and steering insurance is there to compensateandyou forbraking suchfor an of aforefinger twenty-five so data. youMorealso anti-lock shifts down. Withpounds, reverse. angle comfortneed and incredibly confident ride.

(Manual available) improved control. loss, it’s a personal thing when someone steals something portable for on the road as well. your bike or anything you have worked hard for. Your garage floor can easily be drilled to drop As mentioned in previous articles, insurance will a thick steel eyebolt in and give you a point to only cover replacement cost unless you have an lock your chain too. up-to-date professional appraisal for the extra Not everyone can afford an alarm system dough you have invested. or monitoring, but that doesn’t stop you from Dealer Imprint Dealer Imprint Road Courtland, ON small Understanding the mind and mentality of14 Regional making your own.13, Dollar stores now carry Goes Here Goes Here a thief goes a long way in assisting you in the battery operated window and door monitors 519-688-3278 preparedness of motorcycle security. The thief that can emit a piercing alarm when triggered, www.lockhartsodyssey.ca wants an easy score, a bike that is accessible, bringing attention to your property.

Dealer Imprint quick to snatch with the least chance of being A reasonably priced baby monitor with the Goes Here spotted or getting caught. They want a bike transmitter discreetly placed in the garage and they can either strip for parts or is in high de- the receiver on your night stand will notify you mand in other countries as a whole. And just of noise or movement in the garage. Do what because you don’t ride a full blown custom or you can to make it difficult for the criminal. big huge bike, that you think your bike is safeInfrared closed circuit cameras have come -it’s not. They’ll steal anything they can flog for down in price and hook right up to your comcash. They will spot your bike out on the town puter and can record activity inside and/or outor at an event and either steal it there, or follow side your garage while away or sleeping. Newer you home. They will case your home for days, systems can even send streaming video right to off and on, to get a routine pattern before strik- your smart phone. ing when you are at work, away or even asleep.

If you don’t have a garage or shed, park in I have talked with many who have been hit a well lit area of your property, cover, lock and and have heard all the horror stories. “I have a secure the bike to something permanent if you dog and believe he was drugged.” “I went into can and make it difficult to steal. a business for no more than five minutes and There are a number of effective bike alarms it was gone when I came out”. “I am a police of- are on the market ranging from hard wired into ficer and they used my own tools in my garage your electronic system right down to simple, to cut the locks off”. wired to the battery, units. All serve their purCriminals are brazen, but most will still evalu- pose. ate if the score is worth the risk before executWhile on the road, at motels or out with ing the theft. So, what can you do to protect friends, again, park in well lit areas, secure to your motorcycle? You can go from mild to wild other bikes if possible and periodic checks can’t here depending on your budget. hurt.

Out of sight—Out of mind. If you are parkWhen headed home for the evening, a siming it overnight and have a garage or shed, use ple check for vehicles following can be deterit, and just because its inside, doesn’t mean you mined by making three right hand turns that don’t have to lock the bike. A garage/shed door give away a tailing vehicle. Watch for unknown lock can easily be jimmied or cut off. If you own people in your neighbourhood when evening the adequate tools in your garage that could draws near. Also watch for unknown dogs on easily snap, cut, torch or remove a bike lock, or off the leash as criminals will sometimes use keep them locked up in your toolbox out of this tactic to blend in while casing a place. With sight. You can secure your garage door with a diligence and a few extra seconds of post ride steel rail dead bolt inside making it harder the shut-down, we can make it difficult to steal our get the door open. bikes and deter criminals from taking what we Slow them down with a lock on the bike too have worked so hard to get. and increase their risk of being caught. Many No matter what security measures you bikes come with steering column locks which have, make sure you use them, it’s that time of when locked, make it impossible to just roll the year again. ©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.

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All More Bikes, More Adventure Event (“Offers”) are valid from April 1, 2013 to June 30, 2013 and are not applicable in Quebec. All Offers apply to select new (not previously registered) Honda motorcycles (as specified). All Offers are subject to change, cancellation or extension without notice. All prices valid at participating Honda motorcycle or Honda Powerhouse dealers excluding Quebec. “Your Price” prices shown include a discount that is deducted from the selling price amounts and include Freight and PDI and applicable fees and are not applicable in Quebec. Applicable taxes, licence, insurance, dealer administration fees (if applicable) and registration are extra. Dealer may sell for less. Dealer order or trade may be necessary. Limited time cash incentive offers of up to $4,000 are available on select 2011 model year (CB1000RA, CBF1000A, CBF600SA, CBR1000RA, CBR1000RE, CBR125R, CBR125RE, CBR125RS, CBR250RA, CBR250R, CBR600RAE, CBR600RR, CRF100F, CRF150F, CRF230F, CRF230L, CRF250R, CRF250X, CRF450R, CRF450X, CRF50F, CRF70F, CRF80F, NPS50, VT1300CRA, VT1300CSA, VT1300CTA, VT1300XA, VT750C2B, VT750CAA, XR650L) only from April 1, 2013 to April 30, 2013. Actual prices and savings may vary by dealer. See dealer or honda.ca for full details and eligible models. Errors and omissions excepted. Prices/specifications subject to change without notice. Honda Canada reserves the right to change, extend or limit its offers at any time. Models and colours may not be exactly as shown.

Always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing, and please respect the environment when riding. Obey the law and read your owner’s manual thoroughly. Honda recommends taking a motorcycle rider training course.

Honda Powersports Canada

honda.ca

@HondaPowerCA

All More Bikes, More Adventure Event (“Offers”) are valid from April 1, 2013 to June 30, 2013 and are not applicable in Quebec. All Offers apply to select new (not previously registered) Honda motorcycles (as specified). All Offers are subject to change, cancellation or extension without notice. All prices valid at participating Honda motorcycle or Honda Powerhouse dealers excluding Quebec. “Your Price” prices shown include a discount that is deducted from the selling price amounts and include Freight and PDI and applicable fees and are not applicable in Quebec. Applicable taxes, licence, insurance, dealer administration fees (if applicable) and registration are extra. Dealer may sell for less. Dealer order or trade may be necessary. Limited time cash incentive offers of up to $4,000 are available on select 2011 model year (CB1000RA, CBF1000A, CBF600SA, CBR1000RA, CBR1000RE, CBR125R, CBR125RE, CBR125RS, CBR250RA, CBR250R, CBR600RAE, CBR600RR, CRF100F, CRF150F, CRF230F, CRF230L, CRF250R, CRF250X, CRF450R, CRF450X, CRF50F, CRF70F, CRF80F, NPS50, VT1300CRA, VT1300CSA, VT1300CTA, VT1300XA, VT750C2B, VT750CAA, XR650L) only from April 1, 2013 to April 30, 2013. Actual prices and savings may vary by dealer. See dealer or honda.ca for full details and eligible models. Errors and omissions excepted. Prices/specifications subject to change without notice. Honda Canada reserves the right to change, extend or limit its offers at any time. Models and colours may not be exactly as shown.

Always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing, and please respect the environment when riding. Obey the law and read your owner’s manual thoroughly. Honda recommends taking a motorcycle rider training course.

honda.ca

13 – The Motorcycle Times, June 2013

2013

June 2013, The Motorcycle Times – 14

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Top: Team Canada Members, Right: Muriel “Butch” Kelly, holding the paddle-caption “Muriel ‘Butch’ Kelly - Ready for her 30th ISDE as support crew for the team?”

International Six Days Enduro Canada’s Team Needs Your Help

by RICHARD ACKROYD Contributing Writer - TMT

ISDE Team member, Jared Stock, was asked why he wanted to get involved in the Canadian team effort “When given the opportunity to represent my country at an international event it was a no-brainer. All of my family, friends, and sponsors were in full support of my decision and I know I will take away new memories and relationships that will last a lifetime. I cannot thank everyone enough that has involved themselves in helping me and our team.”

- Jared Stock This year marks the 100th anniversary of one of the most famous motorcycle events in the world – the International Six Days Enduro or ISDE. What’s really impressive is that we will have a Canadian team entered into this iconic test of strength and machinery. The team needs our help to succeed.

The ISDE, is a set of motorcycle off-road “runs” that are held annually over six days, this year on the island of Sardinia, Italy. Riders negotiate increasingly difficult, and often seemingly impos-

sible, terrain, riding over logs, streams, boulders, up and down hills, on all types of surfaces, including sand and mud. The race works similar to a car rally - on a designated course with a time schedule. The race contains several special tests. Each of the “official” special test sections, is based on the fastest times. These areas are viewer friendly, and feature amenities set up for the fans. The special test scores are combined with the section scores to determine a rider’s and a team’s overall points. A rider loses points if early or late through the timed sections. At the end of the day, the rider with the least elapsed time is the leader of the class at that point. The scores are added up at the end of the six days and the rider with the best accumulative score wins the class. The teams are made up riders on different sized motorcycles. The team with the least accumulated times at the end of the event wins.

Mike Kelly, Team Canada Co-ordinator, has sent a letter to motorcycle organizations and clubs across the country requesting financial support. The letter contains suggestions on how your group can help raise funds. It costs approximately $20,000 to field one rider in this event. Competitor costs include shipping the bikes, spares, tools, pit requirements, plus entry fees, insurance, accommodations and travel expenses. That’s inexpensive compared to the millions required to run a world super-bike

team, and the prestige of being a top rider in a top team in the ISDE is immense. Sponsorship is open to all riders and individuals.

The ISDE was started in 1913 and has been held almost every year since, with the exception of interruptions for the two World Wars, and was called the ISDT, or International Six Day Trials. These days, the bikes are motocross bikes with lights, rather than the smaller displacement “trials” bikes we see at modern trials events – the ones used to ride over old VWs. Since the ISDE’s inception, riders have represented their various countries. Today, trophies are awarded for the best national team of six riders, the best women’s team (of three) entry, the best junior (under age 23) team (of four), the best club team (of three), and the best manufacturer’s team, again of three riders. Medals are awarded to the top individuals in each class, meaning that one has to finish in the top 10% of the riders in that class for a gold, the top 25% for a silver, with a bronze medal being awarded for finishing all stages within the allotted time.

Riders must be able to ride over very challenging course routes, and must be able to trace and fix mechanical issues with their bikes.

This is one of the major differences between the ISDE and other motorcycle races – the riders must do their own repairs, and within very limited times. The riders only have 10 minutes in the morning and 15 minutes at the end of

the day to work on their bikes, unless they arrive early at the time controlled sections, and then they can work on their bikes for that extra few minutes. Men and women who enter the ISDE are not your average, ride-only-in-fairweather-on-the-weekends riders. They are the “real deal” – biker’s bikers, who not only have to be able to ride on and over everything, and to judge timing (remember that each event section is on the clock), but who also have to be able to wrench, and to change tires. No going to your local dealer for an oil change and a tune-up, thank you very much.

Each day during the event, competitors will ride 250 kilometres of very tough slogging, have to pass four time checks and six special tests, and with a very special final test to be completed at the sandy “Sergio Bruschi” Motocross Facility at Tempio Pausania on the last day.

The final special test will be broadcast in Europe and online. The use of radio transponders on the bikes for timing will enable the results of all special tests to be posted in real time, on the internet, as they happen.

The ISDE was held in various countries in Europe for decades until later years when the event has been held in the USA (twice), Australia, Mexico, Brazil, Chile, and New Zealand.

Canada has yet to be a host of this prestigious event, although Canada has hosted two world enduro rounds, which are similar races. Could

2013 Team Canada Members Junior Team Jared Stock, Medicine Hat, AB, Yamaha Philippe Chainé, Chesterville, PQ, KTM Ty McKenna, Medicine Hat, AB, KTM Tyler Murray, Abbotsford, BC, KTM Women’s Team Shelby Turner, Barons, AB, KTM Felicia Robichaud, Cornwall, ON, KTM Lexi Pechout, Calgary, AB, Fantic Club Team One Shane Cuthbertson, Airdrie, AB, Husaberg Mark Dzikowski, Calgary, AB, Husaberg Craig Murray, Harrison, BC, KTM Club Team Two Patrick Tremblay, St-Mathieu de Beloeil, QC, Husaberg Kenny Beach, Perth, ON, KTM Sean McKenzie, Coaldale, AB, Husaberg For more information on supporting the 2013 Canadian ISDE Team effort, and to purchase Team Canada merchandize using a credit card or PayPal, visit http://www.teamcanadaisde.com.

to support:

Corporate donations to Team Canada: email or call Mike Kelly to at postie_mike@ yahoo.ca or by phone at (905) 541-3867.

The Team also has a Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/TeamCanadaIsde .

For information about the ISDE Event, see: http://fim-isde2013.com/index.html Official 2013 ISDE Brochure: http://fimisde2013.com/admin/imagescms/PDF/ Brochure/Brochure%20Sardegna%20 ISDE%202013%20ENG.pdf

15 – The Motorcycle Times, June 2013

Canada host the ISDE event soon? Would you be willing to help volunteer in order for that to happen? The infrastructure will need to be built.

In 2013, the event will be held from September 30th to October 5th. At the time of this writing, 820 rider applications from 35 countries have been received by the organizing committee in this FIM sanctioned event, including nine women’s teams, thereby ensuring that the 600 rider cap will be met. There will also be private teams competing on the same courses used by the “pro” teams.

The 2013 ISDE has been set up with an eye towards minimal damage to the environment, as the riders cross overland and through ten different municipalities.

Sardinia is one of the premier destinations for off-road motorcycle enthusiasts. It boasts of 12 tracks, nine specifically for motocross, hundreds of kilometres of off-road trails, 68 motorcycle clubs with 3,500 members, and a moderate climate that allows for year-round riding.

Sardinia for off-road motorcyclists is like Moab, Utah for off-road bicycle enthusiasts – it’s a motorcycling heaven.

A record-breaking 12,000 fans are forecast to attend this Fall’s ISDE event – what many call the Olympics of motorcycling. The local economy will see a boost of approximately $13 million (Can. $). Clearly, enduro riding is thriving in Europe. My only question is, if the island of Sardinia can cater to off-road enthusiasts, and bring in a world-class event, with all of the land we have in this country, why is the availability of off-road areas for us to ride in this country so limited? Surely we can match, or do better!

Support Team Canada’s ISDE effort. All riders in Canada could benefit from the positive publicity that a medal team’s efforts will bring.

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With the purchase of a new and unused 2011 to 2013 Can-Am Spyder roadster at your participating Can-Am Dealer in Ontario, BRP will reimburse the cost of one riding course after submitting the proper documentation. The customer can choose from two different courses: a 2-hour course (Can-Am Spyder Riding) at the cost of $75 (administration fees and taxes included) or a 10-hour course (Rider Training Basic – Can-Am Spyder) at the cost of $439 (administration fees and taxes included). ONLY ONE COURSE PER UNIT WILL BE REIMBURSED. Certain conditions apply. This offer is subject to termination or change at any time without notice. See your participating BRP Can-Am dealer for details.

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Road Hazzards’ Traversing the ‘concrete jungle’ on a motorcycle can be a daunting task at the best of times. Doing the same, in the same chaos can be downright ugly after the snow has receded and the ground has thawed, allowing the roads to bare their new honed teeth.

What to look for? Or rather what not to look for is more appropriate.

During ideal conditions as riders in an environment full of steel cages, e-bikes and inlaws we are told the customary precautions: ‘Take a blind bend as if there’s the possibility of a refrigerator lying across your lane up ahead; Ride with your high beams on (during the daytime!); and the standard ‘If there’s one child playing near the road – there’s two’, etc. etc. Very good advice; for a very long time.

Warnings and cautionary tales for riding when the weather and the roads are relatively clean.

What about cautionary tales about spring riding, when neither is nearly ideal?

During the spring we get the pleasure of sharing the roads with not only the sheep in steel cages that are easily distracted, but sheep in steel cages that have to make sense of mazes of construction cones, thrown haphazardly – or as it appears, in an attempt to herd the masses in a common direction. Being atop a motorcycle you have the best seat in the house for this spectacle, but also the most precarious one as well. While the motorists are trying to make sense of construction cones and the confusing signage that comes with it, they have a much greater likelihood, or probability of accidentally ignoring you. They’re called ‘accidents’ and not ‘on purposes’ for a reason.

Road construction and spring go together like peanut butter and jam; milk and cereal; bacon and eggs; a Conservative and taxes; a Conservative and higher user fees; a Conservative and….I regress.

For the same reasons people get more motivated for ‘spring cleaning’, cities and municipalities get motivated for road construction!

Road construction means more obstacles via road debris and more automobile drivers being more focused on their surroundings than being more focused on motorcycles in their surroundings. That driver who was about to make that left handed turn in front of you last year mid- summer , will be the same driver who realizes at the last minute that they were supposed to go to the left of that construction cone and not to the right! And guess who’s already there, unbeknownst but on the verge of registering for their precursory studies in ‘Ow! That’s Gonna Leave a Mark’; with the introductory course, ‘Driver’s Side Door 101’?

When riding in the spring, be aware there will be plenty of road construction to deal with, and the accompanying road debris, traffic cones (and signage), and automobile drivers who view you more as a nuisance than

as a road equal. Be more proactive in your riding style and expect the unexpected. Keep your head on a swivel. Or run a greater risk of not keeping it at all!

Wet weather! Cold weather! Unpredictable weather! Construction! Construction! Construction! It’s hard to think of, or even mention construction without mentioning modern man’s greatest nemesis – pot holes.

One would think that construction would result in smooth new pavement where we could glide on down the highway without a care in the world! We all want the ideal.

The reality is the City hasn’t coordinated the sewer or water drainage updates with road construction, therefore when construction is completed we’re left with a patch work of lumpy pavement along with the regular jig saw puzzle of pot holes winter has created.

We’ve all heard or seen the pictures of pot holes swallowing cars, family pets and small children, but you haven’t experienced true horror until you’re mid corner on a busy downtown street on a Friday afternoon and come upon the trench like pot hole that’s just wide enough to grab your front tire and send your bad side over your better side quicker than Dalton Mcguinty can say ‘Who me’?

Not being on the lookout for Pot holes can end your riding career or worse. Obviously the best way to deal with pot holes is to avoid them in the first place. But mistakes happen, and we get lackadaisical at times until we’re snapped out of it. If you find yourself about to ride into or over a pot hole, try to maneuver your bike to avoid as much of it as possible, while either scrubbing speed with your rear break, or possibly giving your bike MORE throttle. It all depends on the type and size and dimensions of the pot hole, your speed upon noticing the pot hole, and the surrounding environment – i.e. fellow traffic, road quality.

Pot holes, and road construction; you would naturally think one would cure the other! Spring time brings hazards which are definitely unique to spring. As the riding season ‘gets legs’ you tend to see less construction and fewer pot holes and road abnormalities begotten by snow, freezing rain, and salt.

The road conditions and our riding abilities show the signs of neglect this time of year.

Everything can be excused for being ‘a little rusty’ after a few months of winter. Keeping this in mind can be your saving grace. Spring riding can be a ‘perfect storm’ for accidents or ‘get offs’ that can make a dent in your bike, your pocket book, or your head.

A concrete jungle, indulged with brick and mortar trees. Snarling four wheeled hyenas – with sheep behind the wheel? Hidden hazards and camouflaged intentions. Jurassic park - 2013. And we’re making our way through this labyrinth on two wheels, and with no cage.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

17 – The Motorcycle Times, June 2013

It’s Mechanical ...err ...But I’m Not

by RICHARD ACKTOYD Contributing Writer - TMT If you are a motorcyclist, you’ve probably heard of Robert Pirsig’s book, “Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance.” Did you know that his middle name was Maynard? OK, so maybe you haven’t, and didn’t, but that book was one of the seminal (that’s seminal – there’s an “al” on the end of the word) books published in the 1970s, and it was devoured by an entire generation of late-era hippie bikers, and those pretending to be. In the California of the time, flowers in your hair were mandatory; helmets were optional. After being turned down by a reported 121 different publishers, the book became a best seller despite the fact that it was more a psychological self-study hidden under the vagaries of competing cosmologies, and had little to say about motorcycles, or their maintenance. Hence the “Zen” part, I guess.

That leads me, well … to me. I’m one of those biker types who shudders at the thought of actually having to work on a bike. Call me a “Zen” biker then, ‘cause I love to ride, but the thought of wrenchin’ on anything sends me into a shell that is locked up tighter than a rusted bolt on a fresh barn-find Harley WD 45.

Make that a rusted bolt sealed with green 290 Loctite® too. The reality of the situation is that I have a bad case of the T.T.s.

Now I know that you speed readers have just questioned my sexuality, but, I assure you, I simply have over-sized T.T.s, and this is about my mechanical prowess, which is … non-existent. You see, I have ten thumbs concerning anything mechanical. (Ten thumbs = T.T.s, get it?) I admire those who have the ability to figure out how things go together, and how they come apart; those with the patience of Now I know that you speed readers have just questioned my sexuality, but, I assure you, I simply have over-sized T.T.s, and this is about my mechanical prowess, which is … non-existent. see p.19

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Offer ends 30, 2013.with The two-year warranty available 2010and through 2014 Victoryor® models. *Offer subjectdetails to credit Offer may notJune be combined certain other offers,is is subjecton to new change, may be extended terminated without up to 72and months purchases basedTwo-year on credit-approval criteria.ofFixed APR of 3.99%, ® ® Total Protection ESC.required Subjecton to a$50 deductible, See$1,000 dealer for details.An $2,500 rebate on 2010payments and 2011required Victory Vision . Rebatesterm varyatby8.99% modelAPR andismodel year. purchase a 2010 through 2014retailers Victory warranty 12 months of POLARISTAR 6.99%, orplus 8.99% will apply.

An example of monthly payments 36-month termnoatmileage 3.99%limitation. is $29.52 per financed. example of monthly on a 36-month $31.80 perMust $1,000 financed.

See participating ® ® ® dealership not eligible registered trademarksTwo-year of Polariswarranty Industries Inc. Always wear a helmet, model between Mayand 1 and June 30,Offer 2013.ends OfferJune must redeemed

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30,be 2013.

The two-year is available new 2010 throughemployees 2014 Victoryaremodels. ® eye protection, protective clothing and obeyProtection the speedESC. limit.Subject Never to ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. ©2013forPolaris Inc. on 2010 and 2011 Victory Vision®. Rebates vary by model and model year. Must purchase a 2010 through 2014 Victory Total $50 deductible, no mileage limitation.

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June 2013, The Motorcycle Times – 18

FinishLines motogp

Optimism all Round at Repsol Honda Team

Szoke Chalks up his First Win of the Season Jordan Szoke shook down his new BMWS1000RR’s at the RACE Round One regional event this weekend held at the Shannonville Motorsport 1.5 mile “Pro Track” located just east of Belleville Ontario Canada. Jordan walked off not only with some solid laps on his new 2013 equipment, but also with a win in the Pro Superbike class.

“It was really great to be able to get some time on these bikes before the national.” claims Szoke. “We are still waiting on a few more parts that will hopefully make a big difference in the next event.”

The competitors that participated in the Pro Superbike Class were a handful of the national favorites. The Shannonville fans enjoyed an exciting race and a good prequel to the Mopar

Canadian Superbike National season opener.

This weekend Szoke was able to turn a 1.05.3 on his self prepared BMWS1000RR. “I have been very lucky to have worked with the best throughout my career, I paid attention and have prepared my bikes myself. I think I’ve done a pretty good job, and hope to come within sniffing distance to that old track record in a few weeks.”

“Hats off to my crew as always,” says Szoke “They are the same group of guys we had last season, and we work really well together. Without them around I wouldn’t be as prepared as I am to head out on the track.”

The Canadian Superbike National Season Opener will be held at Shannonville Motorsport Park June 7-9. For ticket info visit: csbk.ca

Final countdown to the 2013 Monster Energy MX Nationals is on Stouffville, ON – With just a handful of days to go, the clock is ticking down fast to the start of 2013 Monster Energy Motocross Nationals and everybody is eagerly anticipating the first drop of the gate.

Austin Politelli favoured to win the MX2 title.

A proud title sponsor of the CMRC sanctioned nationals since 2007, Monster Energy Beverage Company’s support has allowed the series to take huge strides forward in any number of areas, and is a brand that has become synonymous with motocross not just in Canada, but in the United States and Europe as well.

“I think it’s safe to say that Monster Energy was and remains the saviour of Canadian motocross. This is a company that loves moto and puts their money where their mouth is. They are serious about growing the sport and we have been fortunate to receive their support over the years,” said CMRC president Mark Stallybrass.

Every new season brings with it changes, new expectations, and the promise of yet another shot at a championship title, or just improve on one’s personal best and hopefully attract some more support and sponsorship for the future.

This season is no different except for a few major developments that are sure to stoke up the series, especially the MX2 class. A new ruling implemented by CMRC will now allow 250cc two-strokes to run up against the 250cc four-strokes.

Intermediate riders were permitted to ride two-bangers in the MX2 ProAm class last year—something that was well received by many—but now any Pro rider who wishes to campaign a two-stroke can do so. This should certainly add a new dimension to the competition and spark more interest in the MX2 class as far as rider participation goes.

Another major change has been the elimination of Ste-Julie from the schedule. Motocross fans in La Belle Province will now be able to get their nationals’ fix at Deschambault.

2013 RACING SCHEDULE

Since stepping up to the MotoGP™ class, Pedrosa and Repsol Honda have won just once at Mugello, but this fact is not deterring the buoyant Spaniard.

“After the race at Le Mans, I’ve managed to relax this week and I feel good physically,” Pedrosa begins. “Mugello is a nice track and one that I really enjoy riding. It’s a fast track with long corners, so it’s important to have a good feeling with the bike. Usually the weather is good to us and there is a great atmosphere with all the fans there.

I am leading the championship which is very special, so I hope we can arrive at Mugello and that the bike works well there so we can have a good race.”

Rookie Marquez had topped the riders’ stand-

ings for two races after his maiden Grand Prix victory in Austin. The 20-year-old now sits six points behind Pedrosa.

“I’m really pleased with the race at Le Mans,” says the reigning Moto2™ World Champion. “It was great experience for me to ride in the wet, but now I am happy to go to Mugello and hopefully have some nice weather! Mugello is a difficult circuit, perhaps one of the most difficult in the World Championship…the other riders are so fast there so I’m sure it’s going to be tough, but as always we will give out 100%!”

The last two Mugello events have been won

by Jorge Lorenzo (Yamaha Factory Racing), who is now yet to claim a victory since the opening race of 2013 in Qatar.a

motogp

Rossi: We Still Need to Improve

Rossi is yet to win a race since returning to Yamaha at the start of 2013 and is now striving for a marked improvement at the Gran Premio d’Italia TIM. “I am very happy that we are going to Mugello,” the seven-time premier class champion says on Tuesday. “I love the track and I’m really happy to go back there with Yamaha. It is a track I really like and a good result is important.

“Unfortunately, we are still not fast enough so we need to improve, especially in dry conditions. We must work hard and improve the bike. The Mugello race will be difficult, but we will try to do everything to get the best result.”

Although the Urbino rider is yet to stand

atop the podium since the Malaysian Grand Prix of 2010, he claims a top three result would suffice this weekend.

“A podium would be really nice,”he adds, having last finished on the rostrum at the seasonopening race in Qatar on 7th April. “I believe that there will be many people at Mugello, so I’m happy, and the heat there is always good!”

Rossi has won at Mugello nine times across the three classes of MotoGP™ - more than any rival, which makes him the most successful rider at the circuit. His last Italian victory came in 2008, two years before a leg-breaking crash at the same venue.

Lorenzo did not have tire problem From second on the grid, the Yamaha Factory Racing rider held the same position in the opening stages but soon began to lose pace.

Soon after the race had finished in Le Mans on Sunday, word began to circulate in the paddock that Lorenzo had been suffered from a defective rear tire.

“It was clear during the race that Jorge had an issue, as he couldn’t keep the same pace as the leading group,” says Shinji Aoki, Manager of the Tire Development Department at Bridge-

stone Motorsport.

“Immediately after the race he had a debrief session with his tire engineer where he explained his lack of rear grip. As is always the case in these situations, his engineer thoroughly examined Jorge’s race tires which were found to be in good working condition. In addition, I examined the tire myself and personally discussed the matter with the Yamaha engineers and we all agreed that Jorge’s lack of rear grip was not attributable to his tire.”

You see, I have ten thumbs concerning anything mechanical. (Ten thumbs = T.T.s, get it?) I admire those who have the ability to figure out how things go together, and how they come apart; those with the patience of Job, who look at anything that contains parts moving together (Keep with the story here! I’m talking about moving metallic things … no, no … like the ones involved in and on one’s motorbike!).

In fact, I have friends who understand that I’m as stunned as a sack of hammers about mechanics, and who feel sorry for me, and then offer to fix whatever it is that needs attending on my bikes, and I thank goodness, and them, for that.

Every mechanical job that I have ever attempted, that was more complicated than changing the oil and filter, I called a “begat” job.

That is a Biblical reference to the part of that holy book that refers to who begat whom, who begat whom, and who begat whom, (or is it who begat who? – oh, never mind) and so on.

I think that it goes on for several pages, or it felt like that when my parents insisted that Sunday mornings be taken up at Sunday school, where they hoped my budding soon-to-be teenage anxieties would be tempered by a good ol’ dose of religious learnin’. I digress.

This is what I have learnt happens when one of little knowledge attempts to right something that engineers have intentionally designed to confuse those of us with big T.T.s. Every subtle nuance of every step will be held up for yet another trip to Canadian Tire, or to the local bike shop to obtain something else that you didn’t know you needed until you needed it and then you will only need it once, but will have bought the wrong size, and have to go back to exchange it, only to find that what you needed isn’t in stock and has to be ordered from overseas, because some brainiac consultant managed to convince an entire economy that something called “just-in-time” was the most efficient way to run a business, for that business, but not for the customer, but who cares about the customer anyway? Rats, that’s a run-on sentence, and the ghost of my grade ten English teacher will now be haunting my dreams just because I am trying to explain why I can’t do mechanical stuff. Oh my, oh my!

Then you are at a gathering of bike-minded people and there is Mr. Mechanic Extremous, who you have all met at one time or another.

He, and it’s inevitably a “he,” can tell you, and everyone else within listening distance, that the major difference between a whatsis for the something hiddenandmechanical on the 1956 Fantasticountilyourideone and its 1957 version was the thread size on the whatchamacallit’s interior anterior Bakalite upyours spinnaker, and thank you very much, I’m going to go outside and scream until they come and take me away. Don’t you love those guys?

So here is where I leave it. I can’t do mechanical stuff. I am proud of that. I have big T.T.s, and I’m proud of that. There are people out there who don’t have big T.T.s, and they can do the mechanical work, and I am proud of them … and I let them do what they are good at, and gladly pay them their due, because they are worth it, and without them, I cannot ride, or at least not for very long. Thank you to all the guys and gals without big T.T’s. Bless you each and every one. I can ride because of you! TMT

19 – The Motorcycle Times, June 2013

from p.17

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June 2013, The Motorcycle Times – 20

LifeStyle Worn Already?

by SHAUN DE JAGER Contributing Writer - TMT

A Sweet Deal Just for you, he says. Perhaps. But is it really?

by SHAWN RODIE Contributing Writer - TMT There you stand in some guys garage watching as he takes all the boxes and other stuff off of the motorcycle he has had advertised in the local newspaper for the past year. He finally gets the bike cleared off and brings it out into the open for your inspection.

Not so bad, a bit of rust here and there, some cracked chrome, a few scratches on the tank.

Battery is dead but he swears she runs good.

Just needs a tune up, a new battery and she will be ready to ride! Not only that, but he is willing to give the bike to you for five hundred dollars less than the price he advertised it for. This is a sweet deal for you he says. Perhaps. But is it really?

Anyone who has been in the sport of motorcycling for anytime has heard more then a few horror stories of how their friend or someone they knew believed they got a great bike for a fantastic price off of some guy and that sweet deal turned out in the end to be an economic nightmare!

So how do we know if the motorcycle we see sitting in that darkened garage with a forsale sign on it is really the bike of our dreams?

There are a few things you should look for and be aware of when purchasing a used motorcycle from someone that you don’t know.

My best advice to you is; unless you are buying a classic collectable bike and know exactly what you are looking at, buy the motorcycle certified. This will save you a lot of anxiety on your way to the ministry of transportation to obtain your new license plate and sticker.

Be sure that the certification comes from a reputable shop. Most (but not all) reputable shops have an inter-net website that you can visit online.

Another scenario is where the person selling the bike says it needs nothing to certify but then refuses to certify the bike for you before

he cashes your cheque. He wants to sell the bike to you in “as is condition.” In this case you could offer to cover the cost of the certification, as you would prefer to purchase the bike certified. If he disagrees with this, walk away from the deal.

Assuming you know something about motorcycles, you’ve looked at the mileage and the price of the bike seems agreeable, here are a few things to be on the outlook for: Engine: You want to hear the bike running before you even discuss a purchase price. If the bike needs a battery to get it running, it is in the seller’s best interest to get one so you can hear the bike running. If it’s not running and he does not have a battery, ask if you could bring a battery, so the engine can be fired up.

Black exhaust smoke: This is never a good thing. This usually means the rings in the motor are blown and need to be replaced. The bestcase scenario here is a top end rebuild and a few weeks in the shop. In some cases it may mean a complete engine rebuild, or worse.

Leaks: Check anywhere there is fluid, such as engine, brake master cylinder, brake lines, fuel lines, carburetor, etc and look carefully for any leaks. While the engine is running, look carefully around the gaskets to see if any oil is oozing its way out.

Electrical: Check to make sure the charging system is functioning properly and all the signal and brake lights are working. Two of the most expensive repairs you can make to a bike are rebuilding an engine and replacing components for a charging system. Either of these two issues will ruin your riding season before it begins.

Suspension: This is the front forks and rear shocks. Sit on the bike and hold the front brake pedal, rock the bike back and forth to see if the front or rear of the bike bottoms out. If they do, it might be time for service or replacement.

Tires: Although not as expensive to replace as an engine or charging system, they can still

set you back a summers worth of beer money.

Determine the mileage on them and check for cracks. I have always said, there are only two tires on a bike and your life depends on both of them. If in doubt, purchase two new tires and don’t skimp here, get the best tires you can afford.

Cosmetic appearance: What is the over-all condition of the bike? Are there parts missing?

What is the condition of the seat, will it need to be recovered? What is the condition of the paint? Does the bike have a custom paint job?

If it does, scratches may be costly or impossible to repair. Are there any dings in the gas tank or side covers that will need to be repaired?

Fitment: Do your feet rest on the ground on both sides when seated and do your hands comfortably reach the handlebars? This is an extremely important consideration for both safety and riding enjoyment. In the end, you need to be in control of the bike you ride. If the bike is too big, meaning heavy or tall for you, look for another bike. In many cases a qualified bike shop can perform modifications (within reason) that will make the bike fit you better.

This is usually accomplished by adjustment or replacement of the seat on the bike and the front and rear suspension components.

If you are considering purchasing a bike that does not fit you from the get go, look into the pricing of these modifications before you purchase the bike.

This is basically what a mechanic looking to certify your bike looks for, although of course in greater detail then this short article has the space to delve into. I find the winter months a good time to purchase a used bike as it gives you time to get the bike ready for riding season. There is lots of time to order any parts, make any cosmetic changes and of course tune the bike up for summer riding. In the end, use your judgment and listen to your mechanic and you should have a summer of riding fun ahead. TMT

Ever found yourself scratching your head wondering why your ‘new’ tire didn’t last as long as your last one did - even though it was the exact same make and model as your old tire? Perhaps you may have been riding at bit more aggressively but is that really enough to cause the tire to be worn out in half the number of kilometres as your last tire? It could be that unbeknownst to you, your ‘new’ tire was actually pretty old when you bought it.

Most people don’t realize that tires do in fact have a shelf life, which is in most cases about five years. This holds true not only for your motorcycle tires but also for your car tires also.

Riders replace their tires for ‘new’ ones not realizing that the tire they just bought was four years old and pretty much near the end of its usefulness.

The reality is that it’s a stale tire and pretty close to junk. Even if you chose to buy used tires, if they are about four to five years old, they are also going to wear out fast regardless of how much tread they have left. Just like old rubber bands, tires also get hard and start cracking when they get age. You may notice unusual or especially rapid tire wear or perhaps you may notice that you constantly have to keep increasing the air pressure because for some reason your tire keeps leaking. A bit of air leakage is rather normal for all tires (because rubber is porous) but when it comes to old tires, they tend to leak air much faster.

Take a good look at your tires for small ‘hair line’ cracks (especially on the sidewall near the wheel rim). This is a clear sign that your tire is getting old and that’s probably why it’s leaking air faster than usual or why the tread is wearing out so fast. If there are a lot of cracks or if they seem to be really long or deep ones, you should replace that tire as soon as you can.

Tire shops and dealers are of course in the business to make money and some shops won’t hesitate to sell you a tire that was manufactured a few years ago. As far as they are concerned, its money on the shelf taking up space.

The tire manufacturer certainly isn’t going to buy it back from them so it needs to be sold or the tire shop loses money.

Before you buy a tire insist that you look at it to verify when the tire was actually made. To figure out the age of the tire, you need to inspect it. On the side of every tire there is a four digit stamp on it indicating the week and year that the tire was manufactured. This stamp is actually melted onto the sidewall and is usually only stamped on one side of the tire. A stamp reading ‘0405’ would mean that the tire was made in fourth week of 2005, which at this point would be a very old tire and you should probably pass on buying it. However a tire that is stamped with ‘4812’ is still a reasonably new tire and should last you quite a while.

Now in all fairness, not everyone at dealerships know about tire aging so before you rip a strip of your dealer or mechanic for trying to sell you an aged tire, take a moment to educate them. If they state that they did already know this and they still tried to sell you an outdated tire, perhaps finding a new tire supplier might be in order.

As is usually the case, it’s a matter of buyer beware. Knowing how to determine the age of your ‘new’ tire before you buy it could not only save your wallet, but also some frustration and head scratching from pre-mature tire wear. TMT

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June 2013, The Motorcycle Times – 22

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CommunityCalendar June 1, 2013 Highway of Hero’s Ride C.F.B. Trenton, Hwy. 2 near R.C.A.F. Road, follow the signs. Registration FREE - sign a waiver to participate.

8:30-11:15a.m. Departs 11:30 Sharp. www.heroshighwayride.com.

June 1, 2013 Kitchener - Ride for Dad Niagara - Ride for Dad Ottawa - Ride for Dad www.motorcycleridefordad.org June 1, 2013 Kawartha Kids Ride Starts & ends at the Lindsay Airport Restaurant on #35 North. Live entertainment, Great food and licenced by L.C.B.O. Raffles, Auction, prizes, 50/50, poker run $20/person and includes ride & 1 poker hand.

Registration is 9-10:30 am, Parade is 11-11:30am, Poker run from 12-4 pm. kawarthakidsride.webs.com June 1, 2013 9th Annual Motorcycle Ride 9am Register, 11am Ride departs.

12:30 pm BBQ begins. Brantford & District Civic Centre. $30/Rider, $15/Passenger. Erin, ehelmer@ lansdownecc.com , 519-753-3153 x221 June 2, 2013 Ride 4 Paws Poker Run Register 11am, Ride 12pm. Upper Credit Humane Society, 5383 Trafalgar Rd, Erin. $25/rider, $10/ passenger, fee waived over $75 in pledges. Cash bar, 50/50, lunch, raffle prizes, top fund-raiser prize.

Laura, uppercreditevents@gmail. com, 416-706-7406, www.uppercredit.com June 2, 2013 Huronia HOG Poker Run Registration 9:30am-11am at Hospice Simcoe 336 Penetanguishene Rd, Barrie. Ride ends Barrie Harley-Davidson 311 Bryne Dr. $25 /person. Ride leaves at 10am, last ride11am. 2 hour scenic ride ends at Barrie HD, prizes awarded, hamburgers, sausages & pop available for purchase. All proceeds to support Hospice Simcoe. Visit www. hospicesimcoe.ca. Rain or Shine. www.huroniahog.com\events

June 2, 2013 Poker Run for MADD Starting 9am-4pm, 395 Mulock Dr, Newmarket. $25 Registration.

A pre-planned ride, BBQ included, 50/50 draw, prizes, silent auction & entertainment. Marvin, mahaggith@sympatico.ca, 905-833-6407, yorksimcoeriders.com June 8, 2013 Reach Out ‘N Ride Rain date June 9th. Register 10am. $20rider, $10Passenger or ($50 ride free with $50 pledges. Ride for Poverty Reduction. Door prizes, 50/50 draw, poker run, BBQ, awards. ‘Ask the Neighbours’ perform. Breakfast from 9-10:30, $5 a plate-Port Cares Reach Out Food Centre (61 Nickel St. Port Colborne). www.portcares. on.ca June 8, 2013 Durham/Oshawa - Ride for Dad Toronto - Ride for Dad www.motorcycleridefordad.org

June 8-9, 2013 Big Boys Tools & Toys Sat 9-7pm, Sun 10-6pm. Owen Sound, Harry Lumley Centre. Only $6. It’s a Sportsman, Car/Truck, Motorcycle, Woodworking, Tool, Boat, Camping, Hunting, Fishing and a Recreation Show .www.bigboystoolsandtoys.ca June 9, 2013 Yellow Ribbon Ride Register 10-11:30am. CFBB (follow the signs once you are at the gate to register) $20/rider, $5/passenger.

Ride approx 100 km ending at the Royal Canadian Legion in Lysle.

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Lots of great prizes. Visit facebook. com/tim-bosma-memorial-ride for more information.

June 9, 2013 Vaughan Hospital Ride Register 8:30 at Vaughan City Hall 2141 Major Mackenzie Dr Vaughan.

Departs 10am. $35/rider, $15/ passenger. 160K scenic ride north of Vaughan. Food, Music, Prizes.

Styles 416-931-4555, vaughanhospitalmotorcycleride.com

June 23,2013 Merrickville Motorcycle Show 10-5pm. Main St. W, Merrickville.

Free admission, People’s Choice-$5.

People’s Choice Awards-7 categories, trophies, entertainment-live band, DJ, 50/50 draw, Prize Table, Street closure, Vendors, BBQ. www. mvmcshow.com

June 14-16, 2013 Ride for Sight Tudhope Park, Orillia. BIG SUGAR performs. Register 7am, pancake breakfast. Parade 10am sharp! Police escorted ride through York / Simcoe to Tudhope Park. Win a 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883-Raise $100 and earn one extra ticket. Winner must be present. www.rideforsight.com

June 23,2013 Bob Probert memorial Ride Tony Amonte, will lead ride. Starting at Ouellette Ave in front of the Hôtel-Dieu Grace Hospital. Rider/$20, passengers/$10. Registration will no longer include a meal.

Riverside Sportsmen’s Club on Riverside Dr, our final stop will have prize redemption, silent auction and food and drink for purchase. www.probertride.com

June 15, 2013 Hamilton - Ride for Dad North Bay - Ride for Dad www.motorcycleridefordad.org June 22 2013 Ride for Participation House Presented by Ladies of Harley. Register 10-11am, Coffee & Donuts, Ride begins 11am. BBQ and Prizes, 50/50 Draw. Ends at Rocky”s Harley Davidson 900 Wilton Grove Rd London. $20 rider & passenger. Ellie elliem@participationhourse.com, www.participationhouse.com June 22, 2013.

Durham Ride Against Lupus Register 8:30, departs 10, 601 Dundas St W, Whitby. Giant Tiger parking Lot. $25/rider, $15/passenger.

Music provided by Fire and Water, BBQ, custom bike show, raffles, 50/50. www.durhamrideagainstlupus.com. Adrian, 905-626-9933 hooch546@hotmail.com

June 23,2013 Hit The Road -Hospice Dufferein Poker Run/Scenic Tour Motorcycle/ car enthusiasts alike. Following the ride, return to the Curling Club for a BBQ lunch, prizes and silent auction. All participants must check-in at the Curling Club 8-10am. Run departs after checking-in. Min. pledge is $30 (includes lunch). All poker hands must be submitted by 1pm. Prize details: 1st - $500, 2nd - $300, 3rd - $200. Tour departs 10:30am. All proceeds go to Hospice Dufferin. Visit: http://hospicedufferin.com June 23, 2013 Hawks MC Poker run $5 buffet breakfast from 8:30 with kick stands up at 11. 447 Club, 3210 Homestead Drive, Mt. Hope, Ontario. $20/person. Poker run with a full meal provided at the last stop. www.hawksmcc.ca

June 22, 2013 Muskoka Ride for Diabetes 8am registration, 10am depart, 4pm return. Bracebridge Sportsplex. $30 fee. Ride Muskoka, lunch par excellence. Walter murray. dexta@gmail.com, muskokacharityride.com

June 29, 2013 Ride for Progeria .. or RFP 2013 9am Tim Hortons, Elmira. $25 rider, $10 passenger. Raising funds and awareness for Progeria in a loop up north with a stop for lunch. www. facebook.com/RideforProgeria, 519-669-9812

June 22, 2013 1st Annual Show and Shine Presented by Brethren and BRO Kawartha Lakes region 23. registration 9-5pm. Riverside Inn, Hwy 35, Norland. $10 with bike. Derek, 705-438-1410, autumnjoybreeze@ hotmail.com

June 30, 2013 Run To The North Wall Staging 9am at R.C.L. BR. 594 (5030 Howard Ave. Tecumseh. In honor of the Canadians that served with the US Military during The Vietnam War. Breakfast available. Run leaves 11:30am. Memorial service at the wall 12pm. Open house & BBQ at R.C.L. BR. 143 – 1570 Marentette Ave. For more info visit northwallriders@hotmail.com.

June 22, 2013 Grey Bruce Arthritis Poker Run Registration 9am, Ride 10am. Blue-

GOT AN EVENT? Send to: circulation@themotorcycletimes.ca Monthly Calendar format with printable Google Map support. www.themotorcycletimes.ca Join us on facebook

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23 – The Motorcycle Times, June 2013

2013 500 EXC

June 2013, The Motorcycle Times – 24

Kitchener Harley-Davidson®

Jacox Harley-Davidson®

Rocky’s Harley-Davidson®

Davies Harley-Davidson®

Mackie Harley-Davidson®

Barrie Harley-Davidson®

2255 Kingsway Drive, Kitchener, 519-893-0493 OR 866-803-6837 www.kitchenerharley.com

8779 Yonge Street, Richmond Hill 905-709-1340 OR 866-977-1340 www.daviesharley.com

2815 Argentia Road, Mississauga 905-858-0966 www.jacoxharley.com

880 Champlain Avenue, Oshawa 905-434-6550 OR 800-668-5828 www.mackieharleydavidson.com

Clare’s Harley-Davidson® of Niagara 590 York Rd, Niagara on the Lake 905-684-4647 OR 866-979-7403 www.clarescycle.com

900 Wilton Grove Road, London 519-438-1450 OR 866-438-1450 www.rockys-harley.com 311 Bryne Drive, Barrie 728-5322 OR 888-743-1903 www.barriehd.com