The Motorcycle Times - March 2016 by The Motorcycle Times

volume 7 | issue 02

MARCH 2016

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Celebrate with Indian Motorcycle

Indian Motorcycle®, America’s first motorcycle company, loves making history at Daytona, whether it’s winning the first Daytona 200 or drawing the best crowds with our Daytona Bike Week events. This year Indian again has a full schedule of events, including demo rides, new models, vintage & custom bike displays, racing, organized rides and much more, March 5-12. “Seventy-five years after Ed Kretz dominated the first Bike Week race, our team is inspired to honor that legacy and showcase our future,” said Steve Menneto, President of Motorcycles for Polaris Industries. “Whether you’re a cruising enthusiast or long-haul tourer, into customs like those shown in our Project Scout contest or a race enthusiast cheering on the SuperHooligan Scout Sixty bikes, we know that anybody hanging out with Indian Motorcycle will have great stories to tell.” Below are some of the highlights of the Daytona Bike Week action Indian Motorcycle has planned. • Demo Rides across from the Florida Hospital Gate, 9am–5pm daily. Last Ride Leaves at 4:30pm. Demo rides of the 2016 lineup are free to those with a valid motorcycle license and proper attire. • Indian Motorcycle Display at Daytona International Speedway (Richard Petty & Midway Blvd.) 9am–5pm daily. Register for a chance to win a 2016 Indian Scout Sixty. • Hooligan Race Night (Ocean Complex West Parking Lot, Daytona Beach) 7 p.m. – 9 p.m., March 8. Join a celebratory after-party at the Boot Hill Saloon. • Indian Motorcycle Rider’s Group & Veterans Ride (Indian Motorcycle of Daytona Beach, 290 North Beach Street) 9am–2pm, March 10. Owners of Indian motorcycles join veterans from the Veterans Ride program in an organized tour that begins at Indian Motorcycle of Daytona Beach and travels to Orlando for lunch. Kickstands go up at 10 a.m. Visit www.IndianMotorcycle.com/enus/daytona for up to date schedule.

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Ducati XDiavel

Lean, Mean, Stroked-out Cruiser Ducati is trying to market a cruiser again – this time with it’s new XDiavel. At first glance, it looks similar to the original Diavel, and the name is pretty much the same, except for an extra letter. But it’s actually a very different motorcycle. Let’s back up to the origins of the new X. Ducati North America CEO Jason Chinnock said one of the hurdles of building a cruiser was to get the Italians to really understand what American cruising is all about. “I wanted to give the Ducati guys an experience that was true to American motorcycling. Not a European’s interpretation of what the American motorcycling culture is … but actually to truly experi-

ence it in the seat of the pants.” So in 2013, Chinnock, then-company sales and marketing director, organized the “Inspiration Ride” to help designers, including original Diavel designer Bart Janssen-Groesbeek, truly understand the U.S. market. Ducati rented three cruisers, including a couple of Harleys, and brought along three Ducatis, including the original Diavel and a Monster, Chinnock said. “We rode from Los Angeles, basically up to San Francisco,” he said. The first segment of the ride was all highway. “You’re not leaning the bike on the highway, you are eating the miles,” he said, and the Italians were

comfortably riding the cruisers on the flat, straight roads. “It was interesting for them to experience the idea that it took 2 ½ hours to get from Los Angeles to where the roads start to get twisty. “When we got to the twisty roads, they wanted to change, but I said, ‘I need you to experience what it’s like in both worlds. I need you to experience riding a Ducati on a flat straight road, and then riding a cruiser on a twisty road,” Chinnock said. The ride “made us realize that there really wasn’t a bike out there yet” that could breach both the cruiser world and the sport world. CONTINUED ON P.03

March 2016, The Motorcycle Times – 2

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3 – The Motorcycle Times, March 2016

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Ducati XDiavel

Now they understand why on cruisers “the feet are forward, why the handlebar is pulled back, why your butt is cupped when you’re going long distances on the road,” he said. Still, Ducati also wanted a bike that had the lean angle to “fully attack” a twisty road without dragging motorcycle parts, he said. “Unfortunately, I remember having to pay with my own credit card to replace the floorboards on those (rented cruiser) motorcycles. We ground a third of them off,” he said with a laugh. And so the XDiavel was conceptualized, with the X signifying the “intersection” of both the cruiser and sport worlds, said Chinnock. The X is the Italian sport motorcycle maker’s first machine with footpegs placed in a forward position and their first bike to have a belt final drive. The X also sits lower and longer than the original Diavel, with a wheelbase measuring 63.58 inches vs. the Diavel’s 62.2. The two bikes have completely different engines: The X’s engine features variable valve timing, which the original Diavel doesn’t have. The X’s twin-cylinder Testastretta DVT 1262, derived from the Multistrada 1200, has also been recalibrated to put out max torque at much lower revs, where many cruisers find their power. The six-speed XDiavel puts out a claimed 95 pound-foot of torque at 5,000 rpm, compared with the Diavel, with a claimed 96.3 pound-foot at 8,000 rpm. The X has 156 hp at 9,500 rpm while the Diavel has 162 hp at 9,250 rpm. Like the Diavel, the X is built with a tubular steel trellis frame, but it loses the air

scoop so you see much more of the framework. There are two X models: the standard and the XDiavel S, which Ducati says is the true soul of the X concept. Mechanically, the two machines are the same, but the S has daytime running lights, a Bluetooth module, prettier machine-finished rims, better front brake calipers, coated front forks, an upgraded seat, forged swingarm and other stylishly machined bits and pieces. Riders will appreciate the adjustable footpegs. Their technicians said it takes about 10 minutes to adjust and that the ad-

justment could be done at home for those who are mechanically inclined. The pegs, which could be moved forward or back 22.5 mm from the standard position, (Ducati says a mid-mount footpeg kit will be available, with no date given). Ducati boasts a 40-degree lean angle for the X, which can save parts from being scraped around tight corners. Most cruisers have a lean angle of about 27-30 degrees. The bike is about 545 pounds with a full gas tank and all the fluids aboard, which is pretty light for a cruiser.

The low center of gravity will make it feel even lighter than that especially for slow maneuvers and U-turns, The low seat height of 29.72 inches helped as well, giving the rider a solid footing. The brakes work and feel much more like brakes on sport bikes – because they are. The S model has M50 monobloc calipers, same as Ducati’s 1299 Panigale superbike, and the standard model has M4 32 monobloc calipers, same as the 959 Panigale superbike. CONTINUED ON P.05

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

scott macdonald EDITOR

Riders, Are You Ready. Well it’s March now and like every year, it’s the one month of the year that can go either way. Sometimes in March Mother Natures will give us a head start on spring and other times it’s her last chance to extend the miserable wintery weather. I look back on winters as a kid and recall how much fun I had outside with my toboggan in the worst weather conditions, spending hours upon hours playing and when it was time for supper, it was agony having to go home. A waterlogged snowsuit, nose running like a tap and cheeks as red as strawberries with wollen mittens caked with iceballs an inch thick, I must have been a real sight for my mother, but it was about having fun. Those days are long gone. Did I mention ‘I hate winter’. The mear mention of winter and I am just about ready to beat that person to death with a soggy iceball mitten. As we move through the month of March there will likely be days where the temps reach double digits and everyone will get spring fever to get out for a putt. There are those of you (myself included) who have spent the last few months wrenching on your bike getting it ready for the first ride, but had you given any consideration to yourself? If you are a seasoned rider then you have a pretty good idea of what it takes to get yourself ready for those first rides, but for many newer riders, it’s just as important, if not more important, to make sure you are as ready and prepared as your bike is. First thing to remember is that cars will not be on the lookout for you on two wheels

(not that they are any other time of the year) but early spring rides are more associated with accidents than the summer months, as drivers expect to see bikes back on the road. It always takes a couple of months of conditioning by the media and the MTO to get drivers to remember to keep an eye out for us. In March, they simply just don’t expect us. So it’s more important than ever to do your shoulder checks at stops and before proceeding through intersections, make sure you see whats approaching and keep an eye on them. What we choose to wear is another important element in keeping safe during the early spring rides. Brighter colours like safety vests over leather jackets or a brighter coloured helmet will help you be seen. As we move closer to the summer solstice, each day will get longer by two minutes. That may not seem like much, but what it does is entice riders to stay out a little longer as the spring and summer approach. With that in mind, it’s a good idea to dress in layers. Daytime temperatures may reach near bikini temps, but as the evening falls, so does the temperature. It’s not uncommon to experience below freezing temps many evenings in the spring and if you are not prepared by wearing layers, wind chills at speed can cause the onset of fatigue and impare your ability to make good safe riding choices. If you have saddle bags, be sure to include a pair chaps or thermal underclothes. Keep an extra long sleeve t-shirt in one bag as an extra emergency measure. And here is a tip given to me from an old biker - if you are limited on space

to carry longjohns or extra pants - a pair of pantyhose will rollup nice and small and be able to be carried in a pocket if necessary (how sexy they are styled is a matter of personal choice). A quick stop at a gas station to add on an extra layer can make a big difference in your comfort level while riding on cool spring nights. Gauntlet gloves, especially ones with some insulation are a much better choice than the average leather riding gloves because they prevent wind from driving up your sleeves and cooling your core down quickly. It won’t matter how warm your jacket is or how much insulation your jacket has if cold air is allowed to essentially be piped directly to your torso. Another great idea is to keep your speeds down during the evenings as much as possible. With an outside temperature of just five degrees celcius (which is common many spring and early spring nights) travelling at a mere 50kph will result in a wind chill factor of minus one degree. Rural areas tend to cool down faster than urban areas. Buildings and brick or concrete structures tend to retain the suns heat during the day and radiate it back during the night. I’ve seen temperature fluxuations of as much as five or seven degrees between country roads and a downtown street. I guess the best thing is to remember to simply be prepared for whatever mother nature throws at you. The more prepared you are and have the ability to adapt or change to temperature the more enjoyable your early spring rides will be. Cheers,

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5 – The Motorcycle Times, March 2016

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Ducati XDiavel

ABS comes standard with both models. Ducati also put a really cool feature on the XDiavel – the Ducati Power Launch (DPL). The DPL helps a rider achieve maximum takeoff speed from a stop, Think drag racing. A sensor and computer measures roll, pitch angles and speed and adjusts fuel delivery and traction control to let a rider take off without the front end coming up. In other words, the engine is such a beast, gunning it in first gear without DPL will most likely result in a wheelie. DPL activated by pressing a button on the right side of the handlebar, which brings up a menu in the instrument display showing three levels (Level 1 giving maximum performance). Then, Ducati says, you pull the clutch in, engage first gear and pin the throttle. To take off, release the clutch gradually. Ducati has added other high-tech features to the XDiavel, including three riding modes: Sport, Touring and Urban. Each mode adjusts the level of power delivery from the engine and how much traction control and ABS interference there is from the bike. Urban mode is said to work really well in city traffic, preventing unintended spurts of power in first gear by limiting power to 100 horsepower. The smooth easy pull clutch lever, means no fatigued hand despite stop-andgo traffic. Also equipped with easily adjustable clutch and brake levers, which allowed easier handling for smaller hands.

Ducati says one of the main elements of the XDiavel’s design and branding is the headlamp. Their parent company, Audi, has been a master of making vehicles identifiable by their headlight design. Still, Stefano Tarabusi, product manager of the XDiavel, says Ducati has been working lighting as a trademark before they were bought by Audi. “That’s one of the future objectives of our design centers,” he says, so “even if you don’t see the bike, you will say, ‘This has to be an XDiavel because this shape of the light is so unique.’” What makes the XDiavel’s light particularly unique is the daytime running lights, which form an elegant outline of the lamp. Unfortunately, the daytime running lights are only on the S version. With all these changes, the question re-

mains. Has Ducati created a real cruiser? Ducati admits they probably won’t win over Harley-Davidson loyalists. “Harley is much more than a bike in the U.S., it’s a sort of religion,” says Tarabusi. But, “a potential customer is one who may be particularly sensitive to European luxury brands. He may have a Harley-Davidson, but he may want something with a completely different behavior on the road.” Other target customers are sportbike riders who, as they age, find they want something more comfortable without giving up the performance, Tarabusi says. Overall, the XDiavel makes for an exhilarating ride, although the forward footpegs look a bit out of place on this still very European styled motorcycle. Ducati may say on its website that the XDiavel is “low-

speed excitement,” but don’t let that fool you. With a heavy roll on the throttle, the wide powerband and seemingly endless torque will get the bike from 40 to 80 mph faster than you can say, “Wait, they call this a cruiser?” Ducati saw North America sales increase 14% last year to 12,132 motorcycles sold, but whether it will win over more U.S. buyers with the XDiavel is left to be seen. The bike, available in March, has a starting price of $21,495 MSRP for the standard version and $24,495 MSRP for the S version – prices that limit their customer base. But as a luxury brand, that’s not necessarily a bad thing. The XDiavel it’s a unique motorcycle that tries to meld cruiser comfort with Italian styling and a heavy dose of superbike performance.

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

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

March 2016, The Motorcycle Times – 6

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Ottawa’s first Harley-Davidson dealership established 90 years ago When the young World War I veteran Charlie Saar arrived in Ottawa to take a job as a foreman at the J.E. Porter factory, he brought with him two of his favorite things: his wife, Alice, and his Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Harley-Davidson already was the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world. But the products were still something of a rarity in the Ottawa, said his grandson, Chris Saar, an Ottawa firefighter. Charlie would ride his motorcycle from his small home on La Salle Street to the factory. When curious co-workers asked where they could get such a machine he would sell them his and then buy another for himself. Initially he would assemble the new motorcycles on his kitchen table. But before long he moved to nearby house that had a barn for the workshop of his growing business. On Feb. 25, 1926, Charlie became an official Harley-Davidson dealer, but kept his day job. He was the mechanic at night, and during the day, Alice ran the storefront. All together,

there were five shop locations in Ottawa. One was at 128 W. Norris Drive, where Saar shared space with a restaurant in a building now occupied by Edward Jones Financial Advisor Mark Platt. Another shop was at to 1409 N. Columbus St., just south of the Rock Island railroad tracks. The building is long gone and the roadway reconfigured. By the late 1950s, the shop was moved to 111 W. Fremont St. That building has been converted to a two-car garage with an upstairs apartment. Charlie was a traditional businessman who operated on a handshake and his personal integrity, said Chris. Rather than take motorcycles on consignment, he would buy them outright for cash and then resell them. Often Charlie and his son Dick would drive up to the Harley-Davidson factory in Milwaukee and tow back a trailer with motorcycles or Dick would ride it back.

The Saars also promoted motorcycling. “Motorcycle riders were a unique group of individuals who shared the camaraderie and joy of being motorcyclists,” said Chris. Charlie helped organize competitions such as races, scrambles, hill climbs and motorcycle polo. He bought the property in South Ottawa Township that became the Covel Creek Speedway and is still in the family. Charlie was a charter member of the American Motorcycle Association and an organizer of the Starved Rock Motorcycle Club. He also was active in community life, serving as a scoutmaster and commander of the Ottawa American Legion. At the end of World War II Charlie provided a “prepay” program for servicemen so they could buy a Harley-Davidson that would be ready for them when they returned. Dick also distinguished himself, having been rated the top amateur rider in the nation in 1949. In the 1960s the Saars were approached by

Harley-Davidson to open a more prestigious facility. Charlie thought about it, as did Dick, but both declined the opportunity. Charlie felt he was too old, and Dick, the father of six, was concerned with employment stability, said Chris. Yet, it was not the end of motorcycling for Charlie. He went to work for the Daily Times newspaper, delivering bundles of newspapers to carriers via his side car. Charlie proved his Harley was not only more economical than a truck, but proved less difficult to maneuver in the winter. When snow blocked the roads, Charlie would cut through farm fields, sometimes snipping wire fences that were in the way, said Chris. Charlie retired from the Daily Times at age 79 and lived to the age of 92. “He would always strive to do things the right way,” said Chris. And he was a man others could count on. “If you needed something done you called Charlie,” said Chris.

2016 Ducati Scrambler Sixty2

In motorcycles, retro is all the rage It’s been said that if you wait long enough everything old will be new again. That sage idiom is seen in today’s motorcycles. Numerous bike brands had spankingnew products that hearkened back to a time gone by. Here’s our roundup of some twowheeled rides, which are thoroughly modern machines but ones that aren’t afraid to show off their retro roots. 2016 Royal Enfield Classic 500 Royal Enfield has quite a storied past. It started off in 1893 as a weapons manufacturer before transitioning in 1901 to make motorcycles. During both World Wars, many British soldiers could be found riding their reliable machines across the European front. They even had an ultralight that was dropped in with paratroopers. Paying homage to that battle-tested heritage is the Royal Enfield Classic 500, available in either Desert Storm or Military Green paint schemes. Hand-built using no computer-controlled devices. Featuring a 499-cubic-centimeter engine and a load of character, thanks to its abundance of nostalgic styling cues, such as a unique air filter, mudguard and toolbox. 2016 Ducati Scrambler Sixty2 The Ducati Scrambler first burst onto the scene in 1962 and was an all-purpose bike that had no trouble appealing to younger generations. They were small, light and custom tailored to the American market. Production ceased in 1974 and after a four-decade hiatus, rebooting the name in 2015, launching an all-new model. This new

Scrambler is powered by a 803 c.c. engine and sticks to its roots, built for the cost-conscientious customer who doesn’t want to give up performance and fun. Now, for 2016, Ducati is building on that momentum by releasing the Scrambler Sixty2 (relating to its release year). This offering is even lighter, powered by a 399 c.c. engine. To help it stand out, the Scrambler Sixty2 comes in unique colors, including eyepopping Atomic Tangerine. Other goodies include LED lights, special graphics and blacked-out components. 2016 Honda Africa Twin Long distance endurance races were becoming all the rage in the 1980s and Honda wanted a tough-as-nails competitor. Honda found it in the NXR750, which dominated the Paris-Dakar Rally toward the end of the decade. Taking all it had learned, Honda manufactured a production motorcycle built for long-distance touring, calling it the Africa Twin. The bike was released in 1988 and was capable on and off road, thanks to its tall ground clearance. The model continued through 2003. Now, just like the Terminator, it’s back -- and looks to be as rugged as ever. Power comes by way of a 998 c.c. engine. The Africa Twin features a very compact design to help make the bike maneuverable. There’s minimal bodywork, allowing it to slip down narrow trails. Both anti-lock brakes and traction control are available. Two colors are offered: Dakar Rally Red and Digital Metallic Silver.

Deadpool star Ryan Reynolds loves motorcycles Ryan Reynolds the movie star needs no introduction, having played the roles of Hal Jordan as the Green Lantern and the secretary Andrew Paxton in ‘The Proposal’. His recent portrayal of Wade Wilson in the movie ‘Deadpool’ has made him an even more lovable character on screen, as ‘God’s Perfect Idiot’. Ryan shares his love for motorcycles while picking up an all new ride, a Kott’s custom Triumph Thruxton Cafe Racer. Kott Motorcycles is custom motorcycle garage based in Los Angeles and have produced builds that are timeless at the same time being functional too. Triumph Thruxton Kott’s Customs Dustin Kott specializes in cafe racers and his work caught the attention of Ryan Reynolds (himself a fan of the cafe racer culture) prompting him to leave a stock Triumph Thruxton R at the garage. “A cafe racer is a harmonious blend of comfort, reliability and use-ability while allowing the machine itself to be rid of all that is cumbersome and unnecessary.” – Dustin Kott Following this philosophy, the Thruxton got stripped and all its superfluous parts removed. The central airbox unit, fuel tank, rear seat and cowl, mudguards, even the cover on the final drive didn’t

make the cut. Velocity stacks replaces the airbox which allows for a smooth and even entry of air at high velocities into the intake tract. A new fuel tank with the Kott’s logo, seat and cowl are the other physical changes. Triumph Thruxton Kott’s Customs Other changes include a smaller profile headlight, clip-on handlebars, and grippy Avon RoadRiders at the front and back. Twin spring suspension at the back is replaced with fully adjustable Hagon shocks. Cover of the final drive has also been ditched, exposing the sprocket giving the bike a unique identity. “I love any kind of road trip where you don’t know where you are gonna sleep. That to me is fun, that’s adventure, that’s what’s all about.” – Ryan Reynolds When we think of celebrities, we come to the conclusion that they are from a different planet and don’t share the same mundane tastes and hobbies that we normal folks do. Well they are also normal everyday beings like us who appreciate the little things in life, embracing the philosophy that everything doesn’t need to come with a big price tag to enjoy it. Check out this short film by Bryan Roland https://youtu.be/2d4-2NIXjn8

An adaptive low beam LED headlight for motorcycles. As a rider leans into a turn the headlight changes the beam to illuminate the riders path, rather than staying fixed pointing forward. A Milwaukee-area firm has developed what it says is the world’s first motorcycle headlight that dynamically adapts to a bike’s surroundings to control the lighting in corners and turns, improving rider safety. J.W. Speaker Corp. of Germantown says it will begin selling the new headlight in March 2016.

The 80-year-old company specializes in producing light emitting diode lighting used in a variety of markets, including vehicles, mining and aviation. Current motorcycle headlights use a fixed-beam pattern that casts light off into space when a bike enters a turn, leaving some darkness in the foreground to the left and right of the bike. While some cars have technologies such as self-leveling lights to address this problem, until now motorcycles have not had the feature, according to J.W. Speaker.

Other motorcycle headlights use mechanical methods, such as switches, to control the beam pattern. The new headlight’s embedded sensors and electronics calculate how a motorcycle leans into a turn, in real time, to control the light pattern and correct what otherwise can be an unsafe condition. “It’s all done in a very smooth, intelligent and natural way, which is the part that makes this unique,” said Michael Stoeckel, J.W. Speaker’s director of aftermarket product sales. Motorcyclists who struggle with their night vision could benefit from the new headlight that, on the high-beam setting, also provides illumination above the horizon for added visibility. “What you will find, especially with older riders, is they tend not to ride at night because they don’t see well enough,” Stoeckel said. The new headlight also is supposed to make a motorcycle more visible to other motorists without blinding oncoming drivers. “We predict that within the next five years, over 90% of all motorcycles will have LED headlights. In the meantime, there is a large population of motorcycles still using marginal halogen headlights that are candidates to be replaced,” Stoeckel said. J.W. Speaker is a third-generation familyowned business that has 250,000 square feet of manufacturing space in Germantown. “We are arguably the only advanced technology LED lighting solutions provider still operating in the U.S.,” Stoeckel said. The company spent about two years developing the new headlight that addresses the problem of blind spots in corners and turns. An outside firm validated that it met U.S. Department of Transportation stan-

dards, Stoeckel said, and test riders gave their feedback. “It’s kind of like that old saying, ‘seeing is believing.’ Once you get behind this headlight and experience it for real, that’s when you get the full impact,” Stoeckel said. The new headlight will be sold as a replacement for a factory-installed light. Pricing and availability is scheduled to be announced Friday on the company’s website. Motorcycle manufacturers have shown interest in the new light, according to Stoeckel, adding that the technology also might be used on other products. “We are well-known suppliers to the motorcycle industry,” he said. “Regulations have been lagging as far as motorcycle lighting is concerned, causing end customers to search for alternatives.” Without seeing the technical information on the J.W. Speaker headlight, it is difficult to comment other than to say it’s certainly time for some improvements in motorcycle lighting, said Tony Sanfelipo, an accident scene investigator and co-founder of ABATE of Wisconsin, a motorcyclist rights group. Some people might say you don’t need lights that illuminate much to the side of the motorcycle, even in curves. “But I think it’s a good idea, and hopefully it will also afford some warning about wildlife lurking beyond the shoulder of the highway. There’s a little bit of a balancing act when it comes to motorcycle lights. We need to see far enough down the road to recognize hazards like potholes, debris or road kill. “The trick is getting that quality of lighting without jeopardizing the vision of oncoming traffic,” Sanfelipo said.

THOMBOYS POWERSPORTS & EQUIPMENT 202297 Highway 6 & 21, Owen Sound 519-372-0937 or 888-865-5782 www.tbpowersports.com

WAYNES WORLD POLARIS 29513 Highway 28, Bancroft 613-332-4649 or 613-332-3902 www.waynesworldpolaris.com

SPOILED SPORTS 1898 Baseline Road, Bowmanville 905-436-6487 www.spoiledsports.com

APEX CYCLE SPORTS 200 Preston Parkway, Cambridge 519-880-8800 or 888-702-4150 www.apexcycle.ca

* This is a limited time offer which is valid for the purchase of selected qualifying models and is subject to credit approval on qualified purchases financed during this program. Offer may not be combined with certain other offers, is subject to change and may be extended or terminated without further notice. Offer valid on new 2013 through 2015 Victory models. Monthly payment and cost of borrowing will vary depending on amount borrowed and down payment/trade. Minimum amount to finance is $5,000. Example: $10,000 financed at 3.99% over 36 months = 36 monthly payments of $295.20 with a cost of borrowing of $627.03 and a total obligation of $10,627.03. Monthly payment examples exclude tax, title & other fees. See participating retailers for complete details and conditions. Offer ends February 29th, 2016. **The 2 year limited warranty is available on new 2013 through 2015 Victory models. Offer is valid only in the U.S. and Canada and does not apply to prior purchases. Coverage consists of 12 months’ factory warranty, plus 12 months Victory Protection for a total term of 24 months. Subject to $50 deductible, no mileage limitation. See dealer for details. Offer must be redeemed by February 29th, 2016. Rebates vary by model and model year. Must purchase a 2013 through 2015 Victory model between January 1st and February 29th, 2016. Victory or Polaris® dealership employees are not eligible for this offer. Victory® and Victory Motorcycles® are registered trademarks of Polaris Industries Inc. Always wear a helmet, eye protection, and protective clothing and obey the speed limit. Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. ©2016 Polaris Industries Inc.

7 – The Motorcycle Times, March 2016

J.W. Speaker Corp. develops motorcycle headlight upgrade

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March 2016, The Motorcycle Times – 8

road rash

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One of my all-time favourite motorcycle journalists is Max Burns. I always enjoyed reading his columns when he was writing for Cycle Canada, and his books are just what the doctor ordered when the weather is too cold for a toot on the scoot. I even have an autographed copy of “On Any Wednesday.” Some years back Max was “burdened” with the task of sampling butter tarts. If my memory serves me, his quest was to find the best butter tart in Ontario. Ya, I know, tough work. Now while I don’t profess to have the highly skilled pallet for butter tarts Max has, I do feel I can spot the difference between a good tart and a bad tart. I think you can add butter tarts to that saying; “Sex and pizza are a lot alike, even if it’s bad it’s still pretty good.” Frankly everyone likes a good tart. Though not specifically on a Quest for Tarts like Max was, a tour through some of my favourite riding roads in Muskoka saw me stopped outside a bakery in Bala, Ont. There, tucked in a beautiful display case, a tray of flaky pastry, delicious sugary and buttery goodness sat calling out to me. “Timothy, Timothy, wherefore art thou?” We all know the Biker Code, never leave a friend behind, right? No way would I leave a friend behind, let alone a tray of six. So money was exchanged, tarts were handed over, and were soon safely tucked in the tank bag where no harm would befall them. Oh mommy! Now before I go any further with this conversation I feel the need to clear up something. My noisy, mouthy, rude, knuckle dragging kids have left the nest. Before you think “oh Timbo, so sorry, bet you miss your kids.” Let me state in no uncertain terms, HELL NO!!! I held the door for them! See ya! Don’t let the door hit you in the ass!! Take your damn cats with you too! Yep no empty nest syndrome here. Unfortunately they keep coming back, for “visits” and “holidays” and “mom’s home cooking.” Pffft, give me a break. Now I feel it is pertinent that we do some math here. With a family of four (mommy, daddy, two knuckle dragging kids), when two said kids leave, that’s four people minus two people which equals two people. Correct? Of course correct. Using that calculation and the law of averages and perhaps some vector analysis and a bunch of other fancy terms I don’t understand, we can determine that my significant other and I are the only two living at home now, right? Of course right. Now using the number two for the

two of us, we can now determine the amount of butter tarts I am allowed out of a tray. Let’s see, there are six tarts in a tray, two people at home. By factoring out the fact that my kids refer to me as “the eater of the stuff”; even if I eat one chip in a bag, according to my kids, I ate the whole bag. We can therefore determine that from a tray of six tarts I should be allowed three tarts, right? Of course right, do the math. Why then did I get only one tart out of the tray? I’ll tell you why, and no it is not because I am the ‘eater of the stuff’. It’s because my significant other is a conniving succubus spawned from the very loins of Satan himself. When I went to bed, there was one tart left. In the morning, it’s gone. Now before you say “yo Timbo, you ate your three tarts, the succubus was within her legal rights under the Butter Tart Consumption Act of 1902.” Let me state for the record, I had only one of my legally allowed tarts based on the same act. I am therefore within my legal rights to beat her to death with a loaf of banana bread. However, without her and her amazing cooking I may starve to death. Sacrifices sometimes have to be made. Fortunately I had purchased two trays and had stashed one where only I would find them. Switching into my best super-secret covert military operation spy mode I ducked behind the counter, belly crawled to the living room. Pressing my back against the wall, I peered around the corner; all clear. Cautiously opening the front door I switched on my night vision goggles; not a soul to be seen. Dammit I forgot my leather gloves! Fingerprints everywhere! No time to back track. Bounding silently across the yard I made it to the shed, I stepped into the shadows, removing my wet suit. A quick shake and my tux looked like it had just been tailored to my lithe cougar like frame. Stashing the wet suit in the bird feeder brought a small clank as metal clasps hit concrete. Dammit, what an amateur move, holding still, barely breathing, my eyes pierced the darkness; not a sound, not a movement. A quick flip and I was at the shed door, dusting off my most suave of suave James Bond tuxedos. I cautiously unlocked the door and slid inside; not a sound. Opening the beer fridge, I pulled the tart box from behind that jar of reddish crap that no one is really sure of what it is. Cautiously bringing the box up to my face I whisper, “butter tarts, shaken, not stirred.” Opening the box in anticipation I peer inside. Crumbs, nothing but lousy crumbs. There is no justice in this world.

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9 – The Motorcycle Times, March 2016

THE

March 2016, The Motorcycle Times – 10

RoadTrip Mix - 0/35/85/0

30%K

Get out there! A day to remember

scott ‘scooter’ jackson CONTRIBUTING WRITER

It looked like my plans were going down the crapper. Myself and 2 buddies had arranged to go for what could possibly be one of the last warm rides of 2015. The plan was that on Saturday, we were taking off for a leisurely tour around Rice Lake, in the Peterborough, Ontario area. Earlier in the week I had noticed a slight oil leak from the hub in the back wheel. After pulling off the wheel and getting it into the shop, I was told it needed a new seal put into the hub of my shaft driven Moto Guzzi. But not to worry it would be done by Thursday. Thursday afternoon I picked up the wheel hub from the shop. On Friday, the rear wheel was mounted back on my bike and filled with the correct oil. The engine and transmission oil was changed at the same time. After checking that there were no loose nuts or bolts anywhere, she fired right up. Beautiful. Thinking ahead for a change, we, (meaning myself and my bike) went for a short ride to make sure everything was kosher. By the time we were back in the driveway, the rear wheel was covered in oil. The damn thing was still leaking! By now, it goes without saying, the shop was closed. Saturday morning, after drying the wheel off as best I can, we are racing for the nearest Guzzi dealership, Corsa Meccanica in Vaughan. George, the owner, who is already in the back parking lot, directing things, says he has another seal and puts a mechanic to work on it immediately. I check out the 2016 Guzzi’s and Aprilla’s in his showroom for an hour and we’re back on the street. The bike is running like a top; albeit one with mechanical lifters. We get on the east bound 401 as fast as possible, and head north on highway 28

when we reach Port Hope. By noon we are parked at Rhino’s Roadhouse in Bewdley, where a black and grey Nomad and an older red Valkyrie are sitting out front. Evidence that my amigos are already here and waiting. All summer long Rhino’s is a great destination for a stop for something to eat and drink, when you are out cruising the countryside roads. And lots of bikers do. Fortunately, this weekend they closed the patio for the season, otherwise it might have been tough to get out of there. They make some of the best wings in the area and occupiers of the rear seat tell me the beer is always cold. During the warmer months you can sit on the patio with a pretty good view of Rice Lake, and a great view of all the different bikes profiling up and down the main street. But we had other plans for where to eat, and it was less than a half hour down the road. Getting back on 28 and heading north we turned onto County road 2 at Bailieboro. Every few kilometers you could see huge bird nests made of sticks on top of platforms, which had been placed on telephone poles and hydro towers. An osprey is a large bird of prey that catches fish out of the nearby lake and rivers by snagging them with its sharp claws. Although the nests were empty at this time of year, you can see them and their chick’s right from the road, in early summer. At one time ospreys were considered to be an endangered species, but judging by the number of nests, I’d say they are doing pretty good now. County road 2 has some decent twists and turns which take us into the Village of Keene and to Muddy’s BBQ Pit. Wheeling into the parking lot I spy a shiny new Moto Guzzi. Before I get my leg over and off my bike, the owner of that beauty is over and asking me about GG. We all know that’s

one of the great things about two wheels – there’s always someone anxious to talk about your ride, or to tell you about theirs. Turns out he picked up his new toy just this week and I’m the first other Guzzi rider he has come across. Like everyone else, he and his buddies are all out enjoying the great motorcycling weather, the beautiful fall colours and the winding country roads. Muddy’s is a pretty well- known place to get some great BBQ and is frequented by all sorts of motorcycle enthusiasts. The place is already busy with a line up to order and an ever changing number and variety of bikes out front. One group of riders was from the Toronto area – another from Cobourg. The place looks like someone opened their garage door, covered over a bit of the driveway with some sheets of tin and put in a few picnic tables. You can see three large smokers roasting away near the side of the joint, and you can smell the searing flesh from the parking lot. You can order pulled pork, chicken, ribs and sausage, but you gotta try the beef brisket. Mmmmmm. However you like your farm animals cooked, it’s sold by the weight and wrapped in wax paper. Of course they have different sides and homemade buns to fix a great sandwich. They even have barley beverages to wash it down. If you are anywhere close, you really should stop by and have a look. After chowing down and checking out the other bikes in the parking lot, we continued east. County road 2 eventually runs into the Village of Hastings. Here we headed the bikes south on highway 45, crossing a cool swing bridge over a dam on the Trent River. Coming into Roseneath the traffic suddenly jammed up. The last weekend in September is the Roseneath Fair. As we weren’t in any rush we stopped in for a couple of hours and walked around the fair.

It was a typical country fair with livestock, carnival rides and tractor pulls. In addition to motorcycles, I also enjoy the beauty and simplicity of antique tractors. Just like we all dig having a shiny clean, cherry looking bike – these machines have been pain-stakingly restored to their original shape and colours. And yet they still thrash them by seeing who can pull the most weight over a set distance. Very cool. While strolling around the fair someone mentioned that the salmon were running in nearby Port Hope. Getting back in the saddle, we continued on toward Port Hope. If you have ever seen any of the wildlife shows on TV that have huge salmon jumping water falls - that’s what the Ganaraska River in Port Hope looked like. People were lined shoulder to shoulder fishing the water for a chance to hook a salmon. They must have already been running for a few days, as you could see, and smell the fish that had previously spawned and died, on the river banks and floating downstream. The town also had a festival in a park near the river, where you could have a drink and listen to folk and blues music. Not a bad way to spend an hour or so. It had been a much better day than planned, but the sun was on its way down and cooler temperatures were coming fast. So we all said our goodbyes, saddled up, and headed off in different directions home. Friday night I had the feeling that I may have been spending the day at home, doing yard work. But it worked out to be one of those days you really don’t plan, but end up being a day to remember. Arriving back in TO with another 300 odd kilometers on the speedo, I recall a buddy a few years back saying how hard it was to get off the coach some days. If you don’t get out there, you’ll never know what you might have missed.

11 – The Motorcycle Times, March 2016

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March 2016, The Motorcycle Times – 12

Space Tight?

the benoit files paula benoit

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

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The Toronto Motorcycle Show. I wait all year for this one. With the blahs of winter and Christmas and New Year’s passing us by, it’s a fantastic reminder that riding season is upon us. And this year’s event had better feature meet n greets. This show gave me the opportunity to meet with Paul Teutul Jr from Orange County Choppers. I watched this show religiously for a very long time and I’m sure it provided somewhat of a seed to my interest of motorcycles. It gave me the opportunity to drool over the choppers they built (yet to this day I still haven’t had the guts to ride one…. but I will!) Walking through the show, I noticed the line to meet Paul Jr. was somewhat crazy. Now I’m a fan but my opinion is no one is famous enough to merit wasting 30 to 45 mins of my time in line to meet them. So as I continued through to the other exhibits, I heard someone call my name, Sure enough, it was a riding buddy out in the 613. He was in line right up near the front, and he called me over to chit chat. So, I took this as an opportunity to meet Paul Jr. as he was allowing fans to have pics taken and get an autograph. Having no use for an autograph, piggyback with my riding buddy Rob to get a pic with him. I would love to pick his brain and hear about some of the chopper builds they did that wasn’t privy to the viewers of the televised show. During this weekend event, Horny Mike and Rolli from Counting Cars were at a meet n greet also. With deadlines and so many vendors to catch up with, I totally missed them at the show though. Now sometime last year, our very own editor did a special feature on the new Indian Motorcycle. Being a fan of this brand of bike (Mike is looking to buy one this year), I took the time to sit on our dock and read it end to end. Finding it to be a tease, I decided to show it to Mike. I’m going somewhere with this so keep reading. Now later that week, I went with Mike to an after-hours job (He’s a master plumber/boiler and backflow guy so he’s in demand) and took this publication with me to keep me busy. The gentleman that he was doing the job for was the owner, Dennis, who noticed the big beautiful black bike on the cover of the article and he asked about it. Wouldn’t you know it! The bike show in January we ran into Dennis and his wife and he was excited to say that he had just bought the Indian Scout at the show. He blamed me for the idea! The one thing that I truly enjoy at these shows are the bikes. If you’re a true fan of the visually spectacular looks of the modi-

fied bikes than you need to go to this show. One bike that makes a repeat appearance is the Resident Evil bike and this year was no exception. This time around, they added more to the paint and some pretty wild lights. Every year this bike gets more of a presentation feel and this year it was in a larger end booth, on a rotating stand and shining like it was proud. I couldn’t help but photograph it. The next big draw to this show is the vendors. The rides to be exact. Ride rallys and charity runs will show up and provide you with options for pre-registration, shirts, hats, and will take the time to answer your questions that they might otherwise not have the time to do throughout the year. The Wharf Rat Rally booth was there, and that’s a Rally I’d like to partake in. Held in Nova Scotia, this year will be their 12th annual Rally. My wanting to go is not just for the Rally itself, but for the ride in and around Nova Scotia just to get there. A number of my riding buddies have done it and have said it’s gotta be on the biker’s bucket list. (Right up there with Sturgis!) With a heavy heart I need to write about a recent loss to the riding community. If you read this publication and participate in the therapeutic pastime of riding, then you a familiar with Biker TV. This past December I was saddened to hear that Tom Mann, the executive producer had passed away. Biker TV got us though a lot of wintery days when the bikes were put away and we longed to hear the rumble of a motorcycle. They went to events throughout Canada, and spoke to not only the people that ran the events, but the participants themselves. His support and representation of bikers was always appreciated by riders nationwide. Now as for the show. If you’ve been following along with these columns, you’ll remember that I have a sweet weakness. I’m talking about the mini donut (funnel cakes are right up there too). Well at the show I’ve always smelled my way to their booth rather quickly, but saved them as a reward at the end. (I usually buy something at the show so technically that is my reward) but we’re talking deliciously flavoured, warm mini donuts. And wouldn’t you know it?? They weren’t there! I looked and looked, I asked each group of friends we bumped into if they saw it. After they finished laughing they responded with a resounding ‘Nope!’ So I’ll leave you with this. If you go to these shows and you see these mini donut teasers, you can tell them that I’m looking for them. And if you’re lucky, I’ll meet ya there and might even buy you some.

So What are you waiting for?

Visual perception may be defined as seeing and understanding accurately. For practical purposes, it is identifying clues in traffic and our surroundings that could affect speed, lane position or path of travel. 1 Safe riding is a skill more of the eyes and mind (mental) than the hands and feet (physical). 2 Having 20/20 vision is not enough. Since we can’t perceive all that our eyes are able to take in, we have to keep at top-of-mind what’s important to us. 3 Central vision is three degrees; peripheral vision normally exceeds 180 degrees. Peripheral vision cannot be used to detect all the important factors. 4 Besides central and peripheral vision, there is “useful field of view” (UFOV). 5 Key aspects of our vision include: visual acuity (clarity); field of vision

BI-WEEKLY FROM

(ability to see to the sides while focusing straight ahead); depth perception (ability to judge distances ahead); night vision (ability to see at night); color vision (ability to see color accurately). 6 Generally, good use of the eyes when riding means to scan using a sweeping back-and-forth, in-and-out pattern. 7 Target fixation (focusing on one object or area for more than a second or so) is to be avoided. 8 Perception improves with knowledge and experience, and can be affected by attention and values. 9 We only see what we expect to see 10 Inattentional blindness occurs when someone fails to see what should have been plainly visible. It is caused by a combination of factors: low conspicuity, divided attention, and high expectation of seeing something specific, and low arousal for seeing a particular item. 11 In very general terms, the eyes fixate on an object for about 1/3 second during normal search, and then travel

63 % 1.9 $

for about 0.05 seconds until they stop and fixate on something else (these are called saccades). 12 It is estimated that half of all collisions could be prevented if operators were aware of danger three-quarters of a second earlier. 13 A good rider responds to good space margins; a poor rider has to quickly react to emergencies. 14 We have a mental set that determines how we perceive, and it consists of the following: •If we are looking for a certain event, we are not likely to perceive much else. •The things we teach ourselves to look for, we will perceive first. •How well we perceive and what we perceive depends to a great extent on previous learning and experience. 15 Other aspects of vision include: focus flexibility (near and far focus transition); dynamic visual acuity (which involves eye movement); and visualization (to form an image of something in the mind, or a mental picture of a pos-

sible outcome). When not riding, some eye exercises to practice for improving visual performance include: •Eye extension: move eyes up, down, left, right. •Focus near, then focus far; then repeat •With eyes open, cover your eyes with the palms of your handsd and focus on the black. •While looking straight ahead, pay attention to objects in the periphery. Now you know a little more about vision and the roll it plays in your skill set for riding a motorcycle. It also gives you some insight to what cagers are seeing, and for the most part it isn’t you. Between their travels, kids in the car, cell phone, texting, general conversations with occupants and other visual distractions you are invisible. Conspicuity-Be Seen, make eye contact where ever possible, and use bright colours even in the daytime. LOOK WHERE YOU WANT TO GO!

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13 – The Motorcycle Times, March 2016

Visual Perception Facts

March 2016, The Motorcycle Times – 14

TheOtherside Mix - 0/35/85/0

• The magic wheel. Complete with an inch of gunge of various colours and consistencies • Shiny results. Still a little battered but shiny battered.

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Shop Time

A Wrench in the Works david heron

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

I think that you have gathered from past articles that I am into restoring old Japanese bikes. This is a worthy way to while away the long Canadian winter rather than sitting with a beer and watching TV. Not that beer and TV are not also a great way to while away the winter but, it’s just not for me. Anyway, that is the way that I spend the evenings in winter. I wouldn’t want to get stuck in a rut by doing the same thing all day and then all night. My shop is my refuge. I have a docking station for my ipod and can blast the music to my heart’s content. Loud music also does wonders for concealing the colourful stream of bad language when , heaven forbid, something goes wrong in my little refuge. I mean, it’s a simple job. Strip down a bike, clean up the parts, apply paint where necessary and put it back together again. What could go wrong? What could possibly go wrong? Well, I’m here to tell you about it. First things first. I told you about the organized chaos in the shop. The perimeter is somewhat cluttered with parts bins, rags, some of them even clean, wood blocks for propping up bikes, bike stands, bike jacks, well, you get the picture. I have spent the last number of years accumulating every tool that I could possibly need to make restoration life easier. I have mainly concentrated on Kawasaki 2 strokes because I like them. I have also accumulated every shop manual, special bulletin and printed instructions for Kawasaki 2 strokes. With all this as my arsenal, what could possibly go wrong? I think that I have said that before. So, here we go. Firstly, I need room to work, room on each side of the bike patient that I am working to save. I have two of my own riders

which winter in the garage. I should explain that it is a single car garage so room to spread out is somewhat limited. My two personal riders are aligned at the back of the garage by the big door and parallel to it. This is the best way to make space for the project bikes. Then the patient bike is situated in the middle of the floor. I have a milk carton with a nice foam pad for my sensitive part on one side and a rolling stool on the other side. I have a halogen light on a stand which moves side to side with me and usually ends up causing the first string of colourful epithets that hopefully are drowned out by the music when the darn extension cord gets wrapped around a tire or some other thing that I have left lying around. Did I mention that I am not the neatest person? OK, so now I am all set up. I have my stools to sit on, I supposedly have the space to work which sometimes is not really so, and I am ready to proceed. Well, as they say, pitter patter, let’s get at her. I will mention that usually these project bikes have been sitting somewhere not so clean and dry for anywhere from 2 to 22 years. Some were used by previous owners who had little or no mechanical aptitude and thus, many are a collection of jury rigged fixes, rust, dust and most became little condos for squirrels and mice. Firstly, it is necessary to look and assess the situation. Then look some more and re-assess and then look again and ask yourself, “why did I pay money for this??” These assessments can sometimes take hours so thank goodness for the music and then sometimes you think that the previously mentioned beer, couch and TV could have been the better choice. Anyway, assessment time over and you get started. First you pry up the seat squeaking and

protesting on rusty hinges. Underneath, you find the first little mouse condo plugging up the area where the battery resides covered in green electrolytic crud. There is enough shredded rag, shredded air filter and newspaper to start every wood stove in the county. It is a joy to dip your hand into this mess and pull away the hardened mass which is held together with the fecal deposits from a long dead mouse population. Yum. Next, the seat pins. Gently straighten a cotter pin that is rusty enough to basically disintegrate with the touch of your pliers. Then, find something small enough to squeeze into the little space and pound the seized pin out of the hinge. So far, so good. The gas tank is next. You break the bolt holding the back of the tank down by applying pressure with a socket wrench, then slide the front mounts off the hardened rubber parts and then are stopped by the plastic gas lines which are now as hard as steel. You try to curse them off but find that the best solution is the old dependable side cutters. The tank is now free. Just for fun, you look into the depths of the tank’s interior, usually after having to pry the lid open and find that unmistakable smell of bad gas and, oh joy, the rust in the tank is coating the whole inside. The tank goes aside for a future fun-filled day of cleaning, shaking and de-gumming. Side covers come off next, if they are still on the bike. You now stand back and look at what you have done and again, question your sanity for undertaking this project. Nuts and bolts are a joy to remove after so many years. Get the socket wrench on the head and then find that you have to be a contortionist to lie on the cold cement floor to get an open end wrench on the nut which is behind a frame member. It is com-

mon for me to question the engineering foresight of an engineer who designed this bolt for the person with the skinniest and longest hands in creation. It is especially nice to think about how you will get that nut back on by holding it balanced on one finger while lying upside down and turning a socket with one hand and holding back another part with one hand. Hmm, I remember that I only have 2 hands. So, it’s hold the nut with one finger, use the other 4 to hold back the part and your other hand to operate the socket. Maybe I should quit this hobby and just join the circus as a contortionist instead. Let’s move on to wiring. Sixties and Seventies wiring harnesses were never really great to start with. Add to this that usually they were tampered with and “fixed” by previous owners and you’ve got yourself a good excuse for a curse-fest. By the way, the best person to blame anything that goes wrong is that dumb butt PO, (previous owner). The mice have also feasted on the wire coatings while wintering in their little condos in the battery box and what is left is hardened and brittle. Many an hour has been spent in tracing a certain coloured wire from the front to the back of a bike, studying the wiring diagram and then wondering why the green wire becomes brown or gray halfway down the harness. Bullet connectors male and female parts have been together for years and do not want to be separated. Sometimes they will stay together at the expense of the wire who got them married in the first place. Bullet connectors are like Romeo and Juliette, parting is such sweet sorrow. Wires though , will part with the smallest touch. It would be nice if new wiring harnesses were available at a reasonable cost but usually, if they can be had, they are a King’s ransom. It is

15 – The Motorcycle Times, March 2016

time for the multimeter. You learn to diagnose by measuring resistance in ohms and voltages at certain points. In truth, I have never been able to really master this meter. I end up doing the old fashioned trace the wire until you find something really obvious method. It takes a lot of time but usually, and I stress, usually, I am able to finally figure things out. In case you haven’t gathered it yet, I hate wiring and electrical. On to the engine. This is the fun part. There can be surprises here too. Seized pistons from years of accumulated rust is the norm. Pull the plugs and load it up with automatic transmission fluid. Mix in some penetrating oil of your choice, maybe apply some heat then pound the heck out of the piston when all else fails. Check for rod play and hope for the best. Then hit ebay and try to find a decent price on all the stuff that you broke with your pounding the heck out of it dismantling technique. One thing that I do have to share is the first “secret’ technique that I ever learned. There were two guys that I knew in high school who were the first home mechanics that I knew. The case screws on old Japanese bikes were round head Phillips screws made from metal no tougher than bread dough. A couple times in and out and the heads were stripped round. There was no way to make your screw driver hold in them. You were left staring at a screw that could not be removed. Then, I learned the secret “hammer and screwdriver” technique. Bang the screw driver on the outside of the screw head and make a cut in it. Hold the screw driver at an angle and give it a whack and presto, the screw turns. Granted, the screw is now completely toast but it works. The long forgotten secret came rushing back to me with my first stripped screw found. It is amazing how you remember things long forgotten but I had to make that one public. Hey, no charge for that. Once all the wiring and mechanical is done, we start with the appearance. I have a very good painter who doesn’t charge me enough who does my tanks and side covers. They are always the best highlights of my restorations. I tried doing my own painting once with less than stellar results. I now leave this part to the pro. What I have mastered is polishing parts. Cases can be made to gleam like chrome. I have a bench grinder that I have put buffing wheels on. You apply numbered goop directly to the buffing wheel starting with the coarser low numbers and work your way up to the higher numbers. It took a while but I did manage to figure this out. Keep at it and you can buff out scratches and create a mirror-like finish. What you don’t realize is that as the wheel spins, it spits out all the goop that you have applied to it. It makes a thick green and brown scum that covers everything in its path. Since the wheel spins downwards and away from you, the crud builds up behind the wheel and even against the wall behind as well as on the floor in front on the bench. What the operator does not realize is that the crud also builds up on the face of the guy who is doing the buffing. I have ended up looking like Al Jolson with a blackened face much to the amusement of my LSW, Long Suffering Wife. One day when I finally emerged from my shop, she asked me to get down on one knee , clutch my heart and sing Mammie. I thought that she had finally lost it until she steered me to a mirror. My cheeks below the spot where my safety glasses had been was coated with a solid layer of buffing compound and dust. Very sexy. Ha ha, very funny. I’m the one who’s supposed to be making the jokes here.

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March 2016, The Motorcycle Times – 16

Friday the 13th in Port Dover

July 2012 17

the Dover Thunder Apparel celebrates 13 years clubof lifebusiness

day 13th clothing. Using such Norfolk businesses as Truckin’ T-shirts for silk screening and Quick Stitch Embroidery as well as various graphic designers, Margit’s Dover Toronto’s only authorized Moto Guzzi, Aprilla, CONTRIBUTING WRITER Thunder clothing line includes men’s and Vespa and Paiggio dealer and service centre ladies’ t- shirts, hats, crests, kids apparel, New and used motorcycle sales, service parts and accessories. and both long and short sleeve choices. Margit, who has lived in Port Dover for the past 35 years, is the mother of two daughters. Admitting the business is a bit nerve Hear ‘biker festival’ andweather your depenmind so plan accommodations accordingly. You wracking because it is so 34 Futurity Gate, Suite #1, Vaughan might conjure up legendary fun resembling can get more info at bikersreunion.ca The dent and requires substantial financial ina scene from when Marlon Brando’s crew festival started in 1999 as a fundraiser for 905-760-9933 • www.corsameccanica.com vestment and physical work setting up tents, took over a town in the 1953 movie The cancer has been growing Margitcauses at theand October 2010 Fridayever the Margit loves Friday 13th in Port Dover. Wild One. since. 13th.You can expect roughly 6,000 bikes “I’ve metWild people from all over the world. at the event and they request no colours. Or maybe Hogs. ange with a Ride cowboy graphic is a popular s I’ve met people who havesomething flown theirfun bikes But either way, having to The Freedom where care packages are ime cle T y choice of some men. c r in and fromsomewhere the U.K. and people have ar- given out for cancer patients is something do to hang outwho is one of the o t o M Women will often go for butter yellow or The hallmarks of a well-run clubback or amazing to behold. rived by limo. A lot ofmotorcycle people come cactus green, if they looking for somegroup. Come this summer you and your CHROME ON THEare CANAL every year and look for my clothing. They buddies will likely be itching to get out and Held July 2 this year, this is a popular thing different than black. Shoppers enjoy get to know you. It is a lot of fun,” she said. about. biker festival in eastern Ontario. Set in picthe quality and unique designs that MarMargit employs about 20 people for the We have a thriving biker festival scene. turesque Campbellford, Ontario, you’ll find git’s Dover Thunder Apparel offers. event. She sets up Thursday and takes Margit Wamsley, right, and friend Connie Prime showcase some of Margit’s There are always new people and groups hundreds motorcycles If you of miss seeing herparked on the along street,the she down Saturday. around to see and be seen. main strip right along the banks of the Trent “Dover Thunder Apparel”. can be reached at wamsley@cablerocket. Every year, MargitI’m enjoys working with Canal. With that in mind going to suggest com different colours and designs. Texas orThere’s large numbers of vintage bikes on a Special Events Coordinator for Norfolk seven awesome bike fests you and your By Donna McMillan County in her regular work day, will once club can go to this year. If you’re in the lead- display and biker gear for sale. The event is Apparel”, specializing again have staff manning two booths that ership group of your club many of these billed as featuring ‘chrome’ so you’ll see lots If“Dover you thinkThunder you have what it intakes Friday 13th biker wear is celebrating its feature “Dover Thunder Apparel”. They might already be on your list but maybe of very cool cars but there are thousands of to be a part of our team, there’s a couple you might not have heard motorcycles that pass through during the 13th of business sendyear in a sample story to: this year, a year of can be found next to Dover Hairport, near of or thought about attending. I’ve tried to day and no matter when I’ve been I’ve seen three Friday 13ths and expectations that the Dover Dairy Bar and in The Arbor include some of the bigger and more inter- hundreds of bikes lining the streets and editor@themotorcycletimes.ca this July 13thmaybe could esting ones. shops along the canal. Well worth the trip Ya never know, there’be s athe biggest event in parking lot. Thirteen years ago, Margit started off Port Dover to date. I’m well aware that there are innumer- for you and friends to get together to go. hidden Woodward or Bernstien in you somewhere. Owner Margit Wamsley, who works as designing hats and quickly moved to Fri- able charity runs, memorial rides, swap LUCAN BACONFEST

mark stanisz

7 Awesome 2016 Motorcycle Rallies

The Motorcycle Times is looking for a few good writers.

ExtraExtra.indd 1

12-05-30 2:24 PM

meets, poker runs and local weekly riding I was at the 2015 Baconfest in Lucan, Onevents which all who can attend will. Then tario and had an awesome time in the sunthere are the monster fests of Sturgis and ny weather. The smell of bacon was in the Daytona but for many those are a once-in-a- air, the rumbling of motorcycles filled the lifetime trip or something reserved for only air and the roads in the area were filled with the hardiest riders. groups of bikers riding around. The festiAttend one of these festivals or attend val, located in a pleasant town north-west them all - but get your buddies together and of London, Ontario, is scheduled for July 9 plan to make this a year to remember! and the festival bills itself as everything ba® DOVER FRIDAY 13th® Spyder PORT con & bikes. The Can-Am RT and RS ®roadsters. With a unique, The Can-Am Spyder® RT and RS roadsters. With a unique, three-wheeled intuitive, rider-focused features, There was a large vendor area last year If you’ve neverstance beenand to the quixotic event three-wheeled stance and intuitive, rider-focused features, need to become one with the road. it’s everything need to become one the road. knownit’s aseverything Friday you 13th Port Doveryouyou owe sowith come prepared to browse through the It’s riding. Reinvented. Discover what thousands of riders riding. Reinvented. Discover what thousands of riders it to yourself and yourIt’s club or chapter to various stalls. The epicentre of the event is already know at can-am.brp.com. already know at can-am.brp.com. ® ® ride overTheand check it out. Everything the Hogtown Cycles motorcycle shop and Can-Am Spyder RT and RS roadsters.deWith a unique, stance andthis intuitive, rider-focused pends onthree-wheeled the weather but promises to features, featured a band playing on the roof. You it’s everything you need to become one with the road. be a pretty big gathering for bikers as the can get more info at baconfestlucan.ca It’s riding. Reinvented. Discover what thousands of riders last few already PD13sknow have been in cold months and check out the Black Donnelly museum at can-am.brp.com. of the year and while May isn’t that warm while you’re there. count on there being a strong turnout as WASAGA BEACH long as there isn’t torrential rain. There is nothing that roars summer bike As always there will be music, tens of party like Wasaga Beach. With long sandy thousands of bikes, hundreds of businesses beaches this is a weekend bike fest you selling biking goods and lots and lots of want to go to this summer with your budbike clubs checking out the scene. dies. Last year an estimated 8,000+ motorHIGHWAY OF HEROES cycles attended the event. The event runs There is no better way toVEHICLE getSTABILITY together from July 15-17 plus this year’s mayor’s VEHICLE STABILITY SYSTEM SEMI-AUTOMATIC DYNAMICSTEERING POWER STEERING SYSTEM SEMI-AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONTRANSMISSION DYNAMIC POWER system No clutch lever or foot shifter here. 16. Adjusts required effort festhrough with your biker brothers and sisters than ride event be held July The bike An automotive-like systemAn automotive-like No clutch lever or will foot shifter here. Adjusts required effort through integrating stability, traction Yourup leftand thumb your acceleration, and steering integrating stability, traction Your left thumb shifts yourshifts up and acceleration, speed andspeed steering and brakingalso forshifts an generated forefinger shifts down. Withangle reverse. angle data. Moreand comfort and to attend the Highway of Heroes on tival $9,000 forMore thecomfort Wounded and anti-lockRide braking for an anti-lock forefinger down. With reverse. data. improved control. incredibly confident ride. incredibly confident (Manualride. available) (Manual available) improved control. June 4 this year. I talked with organizer Lou Warriors Canada project. There’s a Battle of DeVuono before last year’s ride and you the Bikes competition on the Sunday. VEHICLE STABILITY SYSTEM SEMI-AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION DYNAMIC POWER STEERING can read more on that in the June 2015 TMT Of notelevertoor vendors to sell An automotive-like system No clutch foot shifter here.wishing Adjusts required effortgoods, through stability, traction Your left thumb shifts up and your speed and steering edition. But the feeling you get integrating when riding arereverse. going acceleration, to be and anti-lock braking for an all applications forefinger shifts down. With angle data.reviewed More comfort andby incredibly confident ride. (Manual available) improved control. down the portion of the 401 highway west rally organizers, the O.P.P. and the town. of Trenton is unbelievable. You need to do Get more info at wasagabeachrally.com this at least once to honour those who sacBIKES ON BOND rificed all or went through incredible hardA new popular festival is Bikes on Bond ship to return home. Get more info at www. in Oshawa. It’s been held off and on now heroshighwayride.com or on Facebook. for aDealer couple Imprintyears due to a rainout in 2014 Dealer Imprint 14 Regional Roadthe13, Courtland, ONbut this This year the ride goes to Port Hope from (I swear was only biker there!) Goes IHere Goes Here Trenton. year it’s being held Aug. 13, with a rain date 519-688-3278 NEW LISKEARD of Aug. 14. Last year there were hundreds www.lockhartsodyssey.ca Running this year from July 1-3, The New of bikes and loads of prizes - it seemed like Dealer Imprint Liskeard biker fest, now known as the Bik- half the attendees walked away with someGoes Here ers Reunion, is a popular destination north thing. Held right downtown, this is a great of North Bay. If you are coming from south- ride if you rarely get out to the ‘shwa. Get ern Ontario it’s a fair ride just to get there more info at bikesonbond.com

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©2011 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, ™ and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. Always ride responsibly and safely and observe applicable laws. Remember that riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix. ©2011 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, ™ and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. 610376 Always ride responsibly and safely and observe applicable laws. Remember that riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix.

610376

Tire Repair

To Plug Or Not To Plug ‘rotten apple’ rob

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Flats happen. But how to repair punctures in tubeless tires—and even if they should be repaired—is a tricky subject. It all depends on who you ask. The truth is riders fix flats all the time, but they could be plugging away indiscriminately with limited knowledge of the proper repair process or the risks associated with riding on a repaired tire. Let’s explore the issue from several angles so you can make a more informed decision if you “pick up a nail” on the road. One of the reasons a concise answer on plugging is so elusive is because each tire manufacturer, which every tire-plug manufacturer will ultimately defer to if pressed on the subject, has its own take on the topic. Continental, Michelin, Pirelli, and Shinko’s position on dealing with punctures is clear as day: Don’t even bother carrying a plug kit. “Call a tow truck,” is how one VP of marketing replied when asked what to do when you get a flat. These tire manufacturers assert that there are too many variables involved, from the puncture to the repair, and that there is simply too much at risk in terms of rider safety and liability to condone it, even in an emergency. Most dealerships and repair shops share this sentiment. Fair enough. After all, your tires are the only part of your motorcycle that connects it to the road, and a rapid deflation resulting from an improper repair or unseen internal damage could cause a lot more parts of your motorcycle to make contact with the road. Even so, a canned “no” is not what riders want to hear when they just got a flat on a nearly new, $250 tire. Other brands, specifically Avon, Bridgestone, Dunlop, and Metzeler, offer an opinion that’s more in line with what consumers would hope to hear: Yes, punctures can be plugged in an emergency situation, and a repair that both fills the wound (plug) and seals the damage (patch) that is installed by a pro-

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ask is yourself. Hopefully after reading this you are better equipped to make your own decision. Tubing It In A Tubeless Radial Motorcycle Tire. Is An Inner Tube An Acceptable Emergency Fix? It used to be a solid no, but opinions have evolved. The original cause for concern was tire flex, which could cause the tube to overheat and rupture. However, today’s tubeless radials are more rigid and unlikely to cause issues when used with an appropriate-size inner tube as an emergency repair, but other manufacturers, including Bridgestone and Metzeler, still prohibit it. A tube may serve as an acceptable way to deal with a punctured tire, but if you are considering carrying a tube (and the tools needed to remove the wheel and tire), why not just carry the appropriate patch/plug and perform a more reliable, potentially permanent repair? AIRING UP There are numerous ways to plug a punctured tubeless tire and lots of methods to reinflate it too. For side-of-the-road repairs, the three most common sources of pressure are CO2 cartridges, compact electric compressors, and old-fashioned hand pumps. A compressor that runs off your bike’s battery offers unlimited air supply anytime you need it, but these devices can be bulky and expensive. Manual pumps like those used for bicycles (high-volume pumps designed for mountain-bike tires are the way to go here) also offer unlimited fill-ups, but they also require a tremendous amount of elbow grease! CO2 cartridges are another popular option. They’re compact and easy to use, but it takes a lot of them to fill a tire and you can only use them once. When discharging CO2, keep in mind that the gas exiting the canister is extremely cold (about -50 Fahrenheit), so protect your hands and remember that the tire pressure will rise quite a bit as the gas warms to ambient temperature; there’s no need to inflate to final pressure with the canisters. Another option for airing up in an emergency is a parasitic hose with two clamp-on female ends. This device isn’t commercially available but should prove easy to assemble at home and will allow you to draw pressure from another vehicle’s tires in an emergency.

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spection is mandatory. Why? Since tubeless tires are unlikely to bleed all of their pressure at once when punctured, it’s possible for the rider to be unaware of a leak and cruise along on a deflating tire. This isn’t uncommon and leads to the possibility of internal tire damage, either from overheating or from the puncturing object gouging the tire’s inner surface after deflation has occurred. Additionally, escaping air can creep between the plies of the tire, encouraging tread separation. This scenario is of particular concern on steel-belted tires (the majority of motorcycle tires on the road today are steel belted) since any ingress of moisture can cause the steel strands to rust and eventually fail. Any damage to the structure of the tire could lead to a catastrophic failure, and a thorough inspection of both surfaces of the tire is the best way to nip a catastrophe in the bud—that, or just replace the tire, which is always the first recommendation, regardless of who you ask. Great, but what if you can’t replace the tire or dismount it for inspection and repair because, say, you’re in the middle of nowhere with no cell service and a descending sun? If you need to get off the side of the road, you do what you have to do to get to a safer location and thats your first priority. That’s where the myriad aftermarket tireplug kits come into play. Common options include the ubiquitous rubber-impregnated ropes, Stop & Go’s mushroom plugs, Dynaplugs’ brass-tipped ropes, etc... and liquid products from Slime and Ride On. Each product has its own purported benefits, whether it be ease of use or affordability, but the underlying idea is that they’re all emergency repairs. Out of all the options, mushroom-style plugs like those sold by Stop & Go are the only form of temporary repair endorsed by manufacturers, namely Avon and Metzeler. And don’t forget that once you plug the tire, you’ll still need to inflate it. Which we will get to in a minute. If you began reading this piece with a firm stance on tire repair and now feel like you’re standing on shaky ground, we apologize. Ignorance is bliss! As we said in the beginning of this piece, how you should go about dealing with a flat really depends on who you ask. And, ultimately, the only person left to

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*Licencefee(if applicable)andHSTextraonall offers.Offerscannotbecombinedwith anyotheroffers,programsordiscounts andaregooduntil February29,2016.Downpaymentorequivalenttrade-in onpurchasefinancingorleaseoffersmayberequiredbasedonapprovedcredit fromHondaFinancialServicesInc. Sale PriceontheNewMotorcyclesincludesfreightandP.D.E., ECRF,LicenceAdministrationFeeandOMVIC Fee.Freight&PDE($50/$50/$65/$65/$65/$75/$75/$50/$50/$600/$600), ECRF($0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$24.86/$24.86)and LicenceAdministration($0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$0/$299/$299)areall extraonthefol owingontheotherproducts 2.3DK2SCHC/9.9DK0SHC/HRS2164PDC/HS720C/HRR724CW/WB20XK2C/EU2000iTC/TRX420FA6/TRX500FA7). Pricingofthefol owingincludealimitedtimerebate anddiscountof:2.3DK2SCHC$220/9.9DK0SHCSpecialPrice/HRS2164PDC$0/HS720C$0/HSS724CW$0/WB20XK2C$100/EU2000iTC$100/CBR300RF$1,000/CBF250FL$300/VT750C2BF$1,250/CBR600RR$1,100/CTX1300A$4,000/GL1800BE$3,500/GL1800ALSF$2,000/ TRX420FA6$500/TRX500FM5$1,000. ^1.9%ConventionalPurchasefinancingfor36month termappliesto all New2015CBR300Motorcyclesin stock. Downpaymentmayberequired.2.99%ConventionalPurchasefinancingfor36month termappliesto all 2016HondaATV’s. FinancingExamples:$6,000@1.9%/2.99%perannumfor3yearsequals $171.59/$174.46permonth C.O.B.is $177.24/$280.55TotalObligation$6,177.24/$6,280.56.<LeaseaNew2015HondaGoldwing40th Anniversary(Non-Airbag) GL1800ALSFfor60months@4.9% APRwith $500DownPayment, totalleaseobligationis $27,052.20pluswearandtear. 90,000kmAllowance,chargeof$0.12/kmforexcesskilometers. $0Security Deposit andfirstmonthly paymentdueatleaseinception. ^>Customermustarrangeforandpayfor(separately andontheir own)forfire,theft, collisionandcomprehensivevehicle insurancecoverage,with aminimumof$1MLiability andnomorethan$1,000deductible. Dealerorder/trademaybenecessary,if werunoutofinventoryofselectedmodels. 12MonthsHondaPlusExtended Warranty is includedatNoChargeonall 2014HondaStreetMotorcycle models. Vehicle(s)andaccessoriesshownareforil ustrationpurposesonly.Offerssubjectto changewithoutnotice,seeusforful details.

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fessional can even be considered permanent if specific criteria are met. While Avon, Bridgestone, Dunlop, Metzeler, and the RMA (the Rubber Manufacturer’s Association, the nation’s preeminent voice on the topic of tires) all agree that a combined plug/patch applied from the inside of the tire is the only acceptable permanent repair, each group has its own requirements and restrictions. Here are a few areas they all agree on. Everyone who says that you can plug a tire (including tire-plug makers) agree that the repairable area is limited to the crown of the tire. You cannot plug a sidewall because it doesn’t have the structure to hold the plug. Not even the entire treaded area is fair game, since “closer to the sides the carcass flexes too much and the seal won’t take. The repair has to be within the belt package, which limits the repairable area to the center 50 percent of the tire. There must also be at least 1/32 inch (0.8mm) of tread remaining on the tire. Any less and the tire could flex too much to retain the repair. The size and shape of the damage is another important factor. Tears or oblong punctures cannot be permanently repaired, and opinions on the size of round holes that can acceptably be repaired run the gamut from 3mm (Avon) to 6.8mm (Dunlop). Assuming the puncture isn’t too big (research suggests that 90 percent of all punctures are the size of a 16-penny nail [4.1mm] or smaller) and was made in the right area, the tire will still need to be dismounted for inspection and have the appropriate plug/patch installed. Beyond those very basic guidelines, opinions begin to diverge. As an example, Avon prohibits tires with “wound on” belting or tires with a speed rating higher than V (up to 149 mph) from being repaired, while Bridgestone contends that any repaired tire forfeits its speed rating and is limited to 80 mph. Dunlop says that any tire that’s previously seen a liquid sealant is excluded from repair, while Metzeler simply defers to “your country’s regulations” to determine if repair is legal in the first place. When it comes down to it, if you really want to know the specifics for your tires, your best bet is to contact the company embossed on the sidewall. As stated, every manufacturer that permits permanent repairs says that an off-the-rim in-

March 2016, The Motorcycle Times – 18

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2016 MotoGP Calendar Confirmed The FIM and Dorna are pleased to confirm that the FIM Grand Prix World Championship calendar for 2016 is now final. Be sure to check out the fully updated 2016 MotoGP Calendar page. Interested in going to one of the rounds? Visit the MotoGP Tickets page to find out more. Round Date 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Grand Prix

Venue

20/03 Qatar* 03/04 Argentina 10/04 Americas 24/04 Spain 08/05 France 22/05 Italy 05/06 Catalunya 26/06 Netherlands 17/07 Germany 14/08 Austria 21/08 Czech Republic 04/09 Great Britain 11/09 San Marino e della Riviera di Rimini 25/09 Aragon 16/10 Japan 23/10 Australia 30/10 Malaysia 13/11 Valencia

* Evening race

Losail International Circuit Termas de Río Hondo Circuit Of The Americas Circuito de Jerez Le Mans Autodromo del Mugello Barcelona-Catalunya TT Circuit Assen Sachsenring Red Bull Ring - Spielberg Automotodrom Brno Silverstone Circuit Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli MotorLand Aragon Twin Ring Motegi Phillip Island Sepang International Circuit Comunitat Valenciana - Ricardo Tormo

Checkout the full gallery of the 2016 Ducati Livery on MotoGP.com

Ducati reveal 2016 livery Fresh off testing in Phillip Island the factory Ducati Team unveil their 2016 look and the Desmo16 GP. Both Andrea Iannone and Andrea Dovizioso remain with Ducati in 2016, the factory team unveiling a revised livery in Bologna. The 2016 Desmosedici GP, or Desmo16 GP, had been running in black testing livery in both Sepang and Phillip Island but debuted its 2016 colours in Bologna. Iannone feels that the bike is a positive step forwards from the 2015 model, having gotten comfortable with the bike after numerous laps in Australia. While his times were less impressive during testing,

Dovizioso continued to put in lap after lap and has high expectations for the Qatar test at the start of March. Michele Pirro, who will continue as the Ducati test rider, was also present at the launch and will participate in several wildcards in 2016. Casey Stoner, Ducati brand ambassador and test rider, was not present at the launch but is expected to be back on track for a private test in Qatar. Ducati are hunting their first win since the Australian GP in 2010 when Stoner won his final race for Ducati. Both Iannone and Dovizioso have come close to taking to the top step of the podium, amassing eight podiums between them in 2015.

Canadian Superbike Championship returns to TSN TORONTO, Ont. – Action from the Mopar Canadian National Superbike Championship will be televised on Canada’s Sports Leader, TSN, in 2016. Each of the seven rounds will be shown in a half-hour episode and each episode will consist of the Pro Superbike feature race, along with support event highlights. The programs will be shown as soon as the weekend following each national round. “It is a real treat to be able to bring the excitement of Canadian motorcycle road racing to TSN,” said CSBK Executive Producer Michael Taylor of Multiple Media Entertainment. “This opportunity will bring our sport to a wider viewing audience and should create new fans of the series, while at the same time making the championship even more accessible to our existing fan base.” Canada’s premier motorcycle road racing series made its debut on TSN in 1995. Most recently the Mopar Canadian Superbike Championship has been available on the official series website, www.csbk. ca, which over the past three years has provided full video coverage of the Pro Superbike and Pro Sport Bike races Long-time voice of the Mopar Canadian Superbike Championship and ex-

perienced motorcycle journalist Frank Wood will handle the race call on the TSN broadcasts. Senior Producer and Editor Judah Purcell, also a video veteran of the series, will lead the on-site team. On-site production will come from Professional Motorsports Productions, broadcaster of the series for the past 21 seasons. “Judah and his team bring tremendous experience and enthusiasm to the video coverage of our series,” said Wood, a former professional flat tracker racer who has called races across North America in his storied career. “Their packaging of the sport is sure to make instant fans of TSN viewers and will help grow the sport of motorcycle road racing across the country.” Complete, lap by lap, Pro Superbike and Pro Sport Bike races will again be shown on the official CSBK site this season, and will be made available shortly after TSN’s coverage. Jordan Szoke of Brampton, Ont. will enter the 2016 Mopar Canadian Superbike Championship wearing the number one plate after wresting the title from Jodi Christie last summer aboard his BMW Motorrad / Mopar Express Lane BMW S1000RR.

De Puniet: “There will be surprises”

Former MotoGP™ racer Randy De Puniet spoke to motogp.com about his debut on the KTM RC16. After helping Suzuki prepare for their return to the MotoGP™ World Championship with the GSX-RR, Randy de Puniet has begun a new adventure as the test rider for KTM, using his talent and experience to help develop the RC16 pro-

totype. He recently had his first run on the bike at Jerez de la Frontera alongside Mika Kallio and Alex Hofmann. This was also De Puniet’s first time back on a MotoGP™ prototype after spending a season in WorldSBK, the Frenchman had just enough time on the KTM to make an initial assessment before three more days of testing at Valencia in early March.

74th Daytona 200 Set for March 12 America’s most historic motorcycle race, the DAYTONA 200, will celebrate a significant milestone in 2016 with its 75th running on Saturday, March 12, 2016, Daytona International Speedway track officials announced. Tickets for the race went on sale today. The 57-lap, 200-mile race on the 3.51-mile road course will showcase 600cc sportbikes sanctioned by the American SportBike Racing Association (ASRA) for the second

straight year. “We are thrilled to continue to work with American SportBike Racing Association as the sanctioning body for the Daytona 200,” Daytona International Speedway President Joie Chitwood said. “It’s an important anniversary for the Daytona 200 in 2016 and we look forward to celebrating this event’s rich history with an exciting event featuring riders battling for a competitive purse and a Rolex Cosmograph Daytona.”

March 2016, The Motorcycle Times – 20

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Getting Ready to Ride

Lets Talk Audio

Watts, Peak, RMS - what does it all mean scott hopper

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Last month we discussed some ideas on where to start with your audio upgrades. We looked at options such as adding a fairing to your bike, be it quick detach or more permanent. We also briefly discussed some speakers and amplifier options for your bike with the promise of delving further into that subject next month, well the time is now. Let’s begin with speakers. Often this will be the first item riders will look to upgrade when they start to consider better audio. Speakers, after all are the devices that produce the sound you hear so naturally it’s a starting point. Ok great, so now what? There are so many areas that we can focus on when it comes to speakers. Far more then we can get into in one article. We will look at a couple of the most common things you will be faced with and hope that it will help in your quest for great sound. Size Matters, or does it? Sound in its simplest form is moving air. Therefore the more air we can move the louder “it” will be. With that said a larger speaker will have the ability to move more air and will produce greater volume Excellent, then we will put the biggest speaker possible in our bike is that it? Well not exactly. Where will you put the speakers? How do they mount? Do you have to modify anything or are these plug and play? Speakers will also play loudest and sound their best when they are not blocked at all and the sound can come from the front of the speaker without hitting anything but your ears. If the speaker you intend to use is larger in diameter than the opening you will be mounting the speaker behind then you will often be left with a portion of the speaker be-

ing blocked by the smaller opening of the fairing. You will lose sound quality and volume because of this. Confused? Look at it like this. Take your current fuel delivery system on your bike, be it carburetor or injector. Now cover a portion of the opening the fuel flows though. You can have all the force you want pushing the fuel into the engine but that restriction will ultimately be the deciding factor on the fuel that gets through. The sound from the speaker will be the same. Now remember, the discussion we just had for the most part will only be relevant if the speaker is mounted behind an opening. If you are going to mount the speaker so that there is no restriction, then a larger speaker will typically be a better choice as it will be able to move more air and give you more volume. The reality is however that most manufactures that offer a factory opening will have the speaker mounted from behind. Often this is done as a fairly easy way to both conceal the speakers as well as an attempt to keep water away. Wattage, It may be tricking you! A speaker’s wattage rating is perhaps the single most misunderstood rating that a manufacture will give you and with good reason. Manufactures know how you think and use it to their advantage. Say you are looking at two pairs of speakers on the shelf and one says that it is 100 watts of power and the other says 200 watts. Given no other information you will typically believe that the bigger number must be better. This may not always be the case. The speaker rated at 200 watts may be a bigger value but without knowing what the value means it’s nothing more than a number. A speaker’s wattage rating is simply the speaker’s ability to dissipate heat over a given time frame.

In other word’s a speaker rated at 100 watts is simply able to dissipate a 100 watts of heat. Remember a speaker’s power (wattage) rating is not the amount of volume a speaker will give you! A speaker is a passive device. It relies on a power source to supply signal to it, it does not create its own power. When looking at these numbers you may also see notes such as “PEAK” or “RMS,” tagged onto the wattage rating. These will also be important when determining what the manufacture is telling you. RMS is the average wattage the speaker can handle. This means this speaker would have no issues using this type of input power over long periods of time, such as a day’s riding. On the other hand, Peak power means that the speaker can handle the claimed wattage for very short amounts of time, often fractions of a second. Peak power in most cases will be 2-3 times the RMS value of the speaker. So let’s now look back at the same two speakers discussed earlier. Let’s now say the 100 watt speaker was actually 100 watts RMS where the other speakers was 200 watts peak. See the difference? Allot of manufactures will give you the peak rating as it is often the most impressive number and looks great staring you in the face on a shelf! If no indication is given between peak and RMS you may want to assume that the value is peak power to be safe. We are running out of space in this article to expand much further unfortunately. There is so much more we can explore! Next month we will look at pairing up an amplifier with your new found speaker knowledge so you can really start to rock your ride! As always we welcome your questions. Please submit questions to: readers@themotorcycletimes.ca

If you’re like me, you’ve noticed the increasing number of motorcycles breaking out for a quick ride. With warming temperatures, it’s time to get your Motorcycle ready for the road. Charge your battery: The heart of your bike’s electrical system is your battery. The prudent already have their battery on some form of Battery Tender Plus. [Tip: keeping your battery charged can add multiple lives to your energy cell.] But if you don’t the first thing to make your motorcycle ride-ready is to charge your battery. Change the oil & filter: If you followed our recommendations for winterizing your bike, you changed the oil before putting it in storage for the year – but if not, now’s the time to do it. Swap that stale lubricant for fresh clean oil and a new filter. If you don’t do the work then book an appointment now so you are road ready. Tires: Do a full 360 degree check on each tire for any cracking or punctures. Also, check for wear. Excessively worn tires are more easily punctured and less likely to maintain proper traction. On many tires, tread wear indicator bars signal a need for replacement, but another easy check – if you can see the top of Lincoln’s head on a penny when inserted in the tire tread, Lincoln’s head facing down, it’s time for a new tire. If your tires pass the wear test, inflate them to manufacturer’s specs. Fuel: If you stabilized the fuel during the winterization process, you should burn through it or siphon it out and replace it with fresh fuel. If you didn’t winterize, and also didn’t fill the tank before storing, check the fuel tank for rust, which may have formed due to condensation. If the tank is clean, fill it and ‘ride-on’. If there are signs of rust, you’ll live with the consequences – fouled carburetor, clogged fuel filter, etc. – until you replace the tank. Cables & Pivot points: A Spring tune up of cables and pivot points is time well spent. Use a lubricant spray designed for parts that pivot/slide such as cables, levers, pedals, kick-stand, etc. Use chain and driveline lubricants for intended areas. Lighting: Turn on your motorcycle’s power and check all the lights for any that have inoperative bulbs and replace them i.e. brake lights, turn signals, headlights, etc. Occasionally, an outage may be due to a fuse failure. Replace the spent fuse, but monitor the outage situation. Repetitive fuse failures can mean a deeper electrical problem, which may require a professional. Brakes: Stopping your motorcycle safely is just as important as insuring your bike can accelerate. Before you hit the road, thoroughly check all the components of your brake system – lever adjustment, cables, calipers, brake pads, etc. Fluids: Check for all the motorcycle’s fluid levels – brake, clutch, oil, coolant. Top them off as needed. To check for leaks start and warm your bike up, then turn it off and check for leaks. Clean: Finally, the old adage, ‘cleanliness is next to Godliness’ is true. When you’ve taken all the steps to prepare your motorcycle mechanically, thoroughly clean your bike. It will look as good as it runs and you’ll look good riding it!!! There’s not much more fun in life than a great ride on a clean, well maintained motorcycle. Have a great riding season.

19 – The Motorcycle Times, March 2016

SPRING SPRING FEVER FEVER

SALES SALES EVENT EVENT

Rossi: “We will use the bike more similar to last year‘s”

Valentino Rossi ended the final day of the Phillip Island test in fifth after making a decision regarding which bike he will use in 2016. Movistar Yamaha MotoGP team’s Rossi set the fifth fastest time during the third day of testing in Australia. This last opportunity was one of the more challenging outings for the Italian as he focused on making a decision as to which YZR-M1 model he would like to continue to develop – the one more similar to the 2015 model or the alternative version. Rossi was the last rider to head out on track, but he was quick to catch up with the other riders by pushing during long stints and moving up to fourth place before the weather once again put a halt to testing. He was able to pick up the pace further later in the afternoon when the rain subsided and set a total of 56 laps. His best lap of 1‘29.435s secured him fifth in today‘s ranking order, just 0.277s off today‘s quickest time. His fastest time of the test, a 1‘29.404s, puts him in sixth position in the combined standings, just 0.273s from first. The team will now head back to Europe whilst the engineers return to Japan to process the data and further prepare the 2016 YZR-M1 for the start of the season.

Espargaro: “I struggled a lot to feel confident”

Adjustments to bike geometry and electronics did not change Aleix Espargaro’s feeling with his Suzuki, leading to a difficult test. As his young Team Suzuki Ecstar teammate soared, Aleix Espargaro found himself struggling during the Phillip Island test. Friday proved to be an extremely difficult day for the Suzuki rider, falling twice as he tried to push beyond his limit as he hunted for a fast time. Despite being unable to set a fast lap time, Espargaro was able to help by continuing to assess the new seamless gearbox, chassis and engine debuted in Sepang. With these new parts, Espargaro feels that the overall package of the Suzuki GSX-RR has taken a step forward and the results should come throughout the year. Suzuki did a great job during the winter and what they are delivering to us is a real step forward.

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MarketPlace

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April 9-10, 2016 Spring Motorcycle Show International Centre-Four huge halls are filled with all things ‘Motorcycle.’ The latest models, including touring and cruising bikes, street bikes, sportbikes, offroad bikes, scooters, customs and more. Shopping for all the great bargains on helmets, boots, gloves and riding apparel. Entertainment Stages for your listening pleasure. Check out features such as fashion shows, various autograph sessions and more. Meet special guests: racers, celebrities, authors, builders and other motorcycle personalities. Sell your old bike, buy your new bike! Great Food Choices, Free Parking. Special VIP Motorcycle Parking at the front entrance. www. motorcyclespringshow.com May 7, 2016 Ride for Disabled Vets Starting at – Brown’s Independent Grocer, 1251 Main Street., Stittsville. Registration at 8:30-9:45am. Poker run “kickstands up” at 10am. Run ends by 2pm. BBQ from 2-3pm. There will 50/50 draws & prizes at 3pm. $30/rider and $10/passenger. This ride is in support of the Wounded Warriors (www.woundedwarriors.ca) For more info visit http://www.ridefordisabledvets.ca June 18, 2016 Ride for Dog Guides 9:00 am registration, 10:00 am start. 152 Wilson Street, Oakville, Ont. $25 registra-

tion. A scenic motorcycle ride and poker run from the Dog Guides training centre in Oakville, ending at the Dog Guides breeding and training facility in Breslau (near Guelph). Supporting the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides. Emelia Froom, ride@dogguides.com, 905-842-2891 ext. 226, https://dogguides.com/ride/ July 3, 2016 Run 4 Larry This Fundraiser is for the London, Ontario, Victoria Hospital Otolaryngology Head and Neck Cancer Department to help raise awareness and fund research to alleviate the suffering and hopefully someday allow patients to return to a normal life instead of the current drastic life changes that are experienced after the drastic surgery required to end the suffering. There will be several “Larrys” (complete laryngectomy survivors) there to explain. The ride starts in Windsor or London and goes to Chatham where we will meet up and have a lunch provided for all pre-registered participants and then you can decide to return with the run to the start point or not. $30/per rider and $20/per passenger. Bring $100 in pledges receive a T-Shirt, $250 in pledges and receive a T-shirt and pin. http://run4larry.webs.com July 10, 2016 Grand Bend’s Vintage Bike Festival And ride to the “Summer Classic” on Sun-

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

visit us at: www.absolutebattery.com MASTER DISTRIBUTOR

August 20, 2016 Riders Against Hunger (RAH 2016) Registration at 8am. Kick Stands Up at 9:30am. Start venue is the South Common Mall (Erin Mills Parkway & The Collegeway) in Mississauga. Registration: $35 for basic registration, $50 includes ride t-shirt and draw ticket. Ride for FREE by collecting a minimum of $35 in donations. Raise additional funds for incentive gifts and prizes. Register on-line or gate. RAH is a poker-run style ride in support of Eden Food for Change; providing food and skills training to hungry families in western Mississauga. The ride follows a signed, 3-4 hour scenic route with designated ride stops. Breakfast is provided during registration with lunch and live music after the ride. Prizes awarded for best hand, grandprize draw, and top three fundraisers. Will you ride for food? Bill bill@ridersagainsthunger.org, 905-785-3651 x222, www.ridersagainsthunger.org

YOUR HONDA MOTORCYCLE DEALERSHIP IN THE HEART OF BEAUTIFUL BELLEVILLE

• Motorcycles • Scooters • ATV’s • Side by Side • Marine • Power Equipment • Accessories • Parts • Service And lots of Apparel

Check out our Pre-Owned Inventory

Call us at toll free: 1-877-549 - 4454 We are Canada’s largest wholesaler of batteries for OEM & dealer requirements

August 7, 2016 2nd Annual Ride 4 Mom Hosted by SixOne3. Ride starts 10am to 3pm at 435 West Front Street, Stirling, Ont. $10/person includes lunch. Leisurely ride, followed by BBQ’d lunch and prizes. In support of Hospice Quinte. Contact Mandy at sixone3ride4mom@gmail.com, 613-242-3665, https://www.facebook.com/ groups/397758577018931/

We carry a full line of Honda

When life throws you a curve, you can count on us to deliver! Over 70 Years Experience at your fingertips.

day July 10th. from the Growling Gator Restaurant, 81 Main Street, on the end of Main Street right by the beach. The Vintage Road Races Association’s 3 day “Summer Classic” race events are at the Grand Bend Motorplex location, July 8th-9th-10th (endurance races on Friday afternoon). The restaurant will be open early for your morning coffee, Brunch or Lunch. This year we are adding live entertainment “Rocking at the Gator”with a 7pc. Rock & Roll band, Jacob and the Bluesbusters. Sponsored by Hully Gully, from 11-1pm. Vintage or classic bikes on display inside the parking area should be 25 years or older.(1990 or older). At 1pm. we will announce the “People’s Choice Award” winner. It includes a nice plaque, a Growling Gator Gift Certificate and the bike will be featured on the 2017 Festival Poster. At 1:15 pm. we will assemble for the group ride (parade?) to the Motorplex Racetrack. Again this year, there is no registration fee, no official judging but there will be a “Peoples Choice Award”, no vendors, it’s NOT a swap-meet. Entry to the track and pit areas is FREE to all in the group (parade) ride. Vintage related club and group displays are encouraged and free space will be available. Just turn up and show off your Vintage & Classic scooters and motorcycles. Because of limited space in the parking lot, only Vintage and Classic bikes will be able to park there. Riders of all makes and models are welcome to drop in, it’s all FREE !

30%K

Great Northern Battery Systems, 475 Parkdale Ave. N., Hamilton

MASTER DISTRIBUTOR

It’s a one stop shop.

Stop by for a visit and see what we can do for you.

676 Dundas Street West , Belleville 613-966-8828 or 888-966-8828 www.WestCityPowersports.ca

23 – The Motorcycle Times, March 2016

Thanks To a cusTom concepT called ergo-fit™, wiTh opTional handlebar and seaT accessories, and adjusTable fooTpegs, The Vulcan s is The perfecT fiT for any rider. The Ninja inspired 650cc gives you all the confidence and power you need at the same time, and comes with ease of handling you’ve yet to see in this category, Until now, that is.

kawasaki.ca ©2014 Canadian Kawasaki Motors Inc. Always wear a helmet, eye Thanks To a cusTom concepT ergo-fit™, wiTh@CanadaKawasaki of drugs or alcohol. Adhere tocalled the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual. Professional riders on a closed course. opTional handlebar and seaT accessories, and adjusTable fooTpegs, The Vulcan s is The perfecT fiT for anyBELLEVILLE rider. Sturgess Cycle SPORT & LAWN protection and proper riding apparel. Never ride under the influence

The you all the confidence and power you St. S. Belleville 615Ninja Kinginspired Street 650cc West, gives Hamilton 128 Church need at the sameor time, and comes with ease of handling613-968-4559 you’ve yet 905-522-0503 888-421-3333 or 877-968-4559 www.sturgessonline.com www.bellevillesportandlawn.com to see in this category, Until now, that is.

FasT Track Performance GRAND RIVER POWERSPORTS 3418 Catherine Street. 1264 Colborne St. E. kawasaki.ca Canadian Kawasaki Motors Inc. Always wear a helmet, eye Brantford 519-759-8140 Dorchester©2014 519-268-8429 protection and proper riding apparel. Never ride under the influence www.fasttrackperformance.ca www.grandriverpowersports.ca of drugs or alcohol. Adhere to the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual. Professional riders on a closed course.

Cycle One 127 Ingersoll Road, Woodstock 519-421-3333 www.cycleone.ca

@CanadaKawasaki

MotorsportS Pickering 3260 Highway 7, Pickering 905-620-1171 www.motorsportspickering.com

CanadianKawasakiMotors

Ready Kawasaki 430 Hensall Circle, Mississauga 905-896-1600 or 1-855-896-0430 www.readykawasaki.com

CanadianKawasakiMotors

March 2016, The Motorcycle Times – 24

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Freedom Harley-Davidson® of Ottawa

Mackie Harley-Davidson®

Kitchener Harley-Davidson®

Davies Harley-Davidson®

Rocky’s Harley-Davidson®

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