Issue 2 : December 2012
Border Reivers TT is Go! 2013 Bikes All the news
The Grampian All the pics
The Championships All the Winners
Tigers Roar Ahead!
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Editor’s Notes
New to SACU
THE response to our first issue was just fantastic thanks to you.
IN this issue of Motorcycle Sport Scotland, we’ve included a four-page supplement introducing the SACU Online Shop.
Hopefully, we’ve managed to take on board your suggestions, ideas and thoughts on the way forward in this latest issue. With the end of the season now in sight for both the majority of competitors and enthusiasts alike, it’s time to look forward. And in that respect, we’ve brought you a fair sprinkling of the new bikes bound for the showrooms in 2013, along with new products in the kit and accessory departments. It’s been a tough season all round - atrocious weather, costs up and competitor entries down. However, there’s also been much to celebrate such as more younger bikers taking to the roads. And you only had to join the thousands at the Grampian Motorcycle Convention, marvel at the numbers for Thunder In The Glen or watch the Scottish Six Days Trial to understand the passion that remains for our sport and our hobby. Now we plan to celebrate further with the annual prizegiving presentations and end of season results, many of which we also cover inside this edition of the magazine. It’s going to be a big year for all of us - and we can’t wait. Keep the news and views coming. YOURS IN SPORT Derek Stewart-Brown (Editor) derekstewartbrown@btinternet.com Stuart Sommerville (Deputy Editor) For all your advertising needs contact Robbie on 07743 455217
It’s just part and parcel of the SACU’s determination in this centenary year to provide you with more benefits to being a member and better access to the sport’s governing body. A whole new SACU website is being launched in addition, which will provide a better news service, results, regs and events details. Coupled up with Facebook and Twitter you will now be able to interact with the SACU easily and quickly. There’s no change to the domain name - http://www.sacu.co.uk/ will still get you there! Meanwhile Motorcycle Sport Scotland is going from strength to strength - more pages and more places where you can pick up a copy. The affiliated clubs receive copies and we're available in most motorcycle dealers - and we’re still free. If you know of a dealer who doesn’t stock the magazine, let us know the details by email and we’ll see what we can do. And while there is no back issue or postal service up and running yet, let us know if it’s something we should be thinking about. We also want to hear your stories, suggestions and ideas for both the magazine and the SACU. In the meantime, we want to wish you and yours a very merry Christmas and a truly happy New Year. We’ll see you in 2013 in time for the Scottish Bike Show and a great biking season to look forward to.
11th hour agreement fixes licence fees THERE’S been much burning of the midnight oil in the SACU offices lately, over the question of 2013 licence fees. Various schemes and ideas were looked at - predominantly a per event insurance scheme which initially looked promising. However, the fight will continue to bring SACU members the very best deal wherever possible and although licence fees have now been set of 2013 the talks will continue. In the meantime, the fact that the subject was under discussion prompted members and clubs to put forward ideas and views which helped the SACU make a decision. And these same comments and opinions will be taken on board in future talks. A statement from the SACU posted on the webside notes: “The Board will commit to bring new options for consultation to clubs and riders in the summer of 2013 with a view to gathering comments. We will seek to implement any new structures that meet with general approval in the Autumn of 2013, ready for the 2014 season.” In the meantime: From January 1, the licence fee for all sporting tariffs will be Adult Annual Licence......£50. Youth Annual Licence ....£45. (Off Road Only ) One Event Licence....£11.
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NEWS
Borders TT is Go! SUPPORT for an Isle Of Man TT event in the Borders is gathering steam - with a suggestion that it might be possible to get racing underway as early as next year.
“But it’s how we’ve approached the idea right from the start, letting people make up their own minds and I think the majority can see the benefits,” he told MSS.
That would be the perfect scenario for the organisers who have already drawn up an 11-mile circuit plan which starts and finishes in Jedburgh, taking in sections of the A68 and A698 and set a date for next August. The plan has considerable backing locally from bike fans and more importantly, from groups in commercial and political quarters.
There was no doubting the commercial gain for fast food outlets, coffee shops and others in the town centre during the open day as the several hundred visitors wandered backwards and forwards from the site to the town centre.
However, it’s a challenge that Andy and his co-organisers relish. “We're already getting a lot of interest. Companies are coming to us right now and I think that’s because they can see the benefits.” Talks are likely to be held early next year with the SACU and would involve the ACU and FIM as well.
“We’ve done our sums and so have others unconnected with the plans and there is the possibility that at the very least, this event could bring more than £2 million into the area. And in years to come, much, much more,” said Andy. But where will the cash come from to finance an event on this scale?
Road closures, safety considerations, television rights, marketing, prizemoney, logistics, are just a handful of the considerations the TT organisers will have to get to grips with - and soon, if 2013 is to become a reality.
However, the organisers have set themselves a mammoth task to seek not only Governmental approval but financial backing for the venture. In Jedburgh they held an open day to introduce townspeople to the idea and provide locals with an idea of the flavour of the event. Taking over a town centre car park, providing music, a chance to meet several race teams and watch a stunt rider perform was a bit of a ‘softly softly’ approach to bringing the whole TT circus to town, admitted one of the organisers, Andy Hadwin.
The Border Reivers have already held talks with agencies such as Event Scotland and there is an obvious opportunity to attract sponsorship from national and international companies. However, it’s early days yet and to move forward the event will require an experienced team effort with UK and international contacts on many, many levels.
So far, it’s been a well-organised, carefully considered plan to bring an exciting and benefit-laden event to Scotland. When you consider the success of Irish road racing events such as the NW 200 and the TT itself, it seems only right that Scotland should play host and proper that it should come to an area where a few of motorcycle sport’s legends cut their teeth!
Scottish Bike Show is back and we’re there! THE Scottish Bike Show is back, bigger and better than ever before, at the Royal Highland Showground in Edinburgh, this March.
Meanwhile expect a feast of bygone bikes in the Classic Pavilion and see the latest custom bikes from some of Britain's best builders.
or £16 on the door. OAP visitors benefit from a special price of £7 booked and £12 on the door. Parking for bikes is free and £4 per car.
The latest bikes from all the major manufacturers will combine with some stunning live action to bring you the best of bikes 2013. And we'll be there - on the SACU stand in the show's main hall.
Knockhill also feature, with their own stage, providing the entertainment throughout Saturday, March 9 and Sunday, March 10. Plus that’s where you will find the cream of biking talent being interviewed.
All this and a chance to meet the SACU crew and tell us what you think about the magazine. We’ll be there both days, and who knows you might even get a cup of tea on us.
Triumph, KTM, Ducati, Suzuki, Victory, Honda, Yamaha and Harley Davidson are among those showcasing the latest machinery. Meanwhile Broke FMX and the Inch Perfect Trial Display Team will be providing the live action indoors. You can also have a go on the Try-Out Trials arena, where anyone over 16 with a DVLA licence or SACU licence can try their skills.
There’s a chance of a bargain or two with a bike jumble and a visit to the Retail Village, where hundreds of exhibitors will be showing the latest bike wear, accessories and gadgets for bikers. Kids (under 15) go free. The show opens daily from 9am and ticket prices start at just £12 when booked in advance
Call the Carole Nash MCN Scottish Motorcycle Show 24-hour ticket hotline on 0844 8540084 or go to www.scottishmotorcycleshow.com to catch the latest updates.
NEWS
Rory is racing against time WHEN you’ve won eight championship titles in just five years, and Sports Personality of the Year, you could say that's been a successful career.
Championship, earning him both titles. And it’s been much the same story in various championships since he started racing in 2008.
To achieve that before you are old enough to get an SACU licence is incredible! But that’s exactly what young Rory Skinner has done so far - and that’s just the big prizes.
An unassuming youngster, he comes across as quite shy - but dedicated to his sport, indeed, he massively impressed Chris Hoy, when invited to meet him recently.
This remarkable young person won this year’s Mini Moto British and the GP70 titles, but can't really progress his riding until he acquires his SACU licence in 2014.
The Olympic hero was so taken with Rory’s attitude that he sent out a tweet straight after their meeting - urging anyone who could to get behind Rory’s racing career with sponsorship.
“At the moment, he’s really racing against himself,” explained Dad, Mike, who runs the family business, Skinner Motorcycles, in Dundee. “Rory will be back in GP70 next season, but his aim is to improve his racing really and not much more.”
“There's no doubt he’s going to be a major talent,” he said. With a week’s racing in Spain come March, Rory would love to progress immediately to a 125cc machine. He’s already proved that he's on the pace with the current crop of 125 racers and he’s quite rightly a bit frustrated that he can't get out to join them.
Rory’s racing results back that up - seven first places in eight rounds of last season’s championship. And five out of seven in the Junior Production
Dad, Mike, points out Rory’s times last season - anything from six seconds to 10
Ducati ½ Page
seconds ahead of his nearest rivals. “2013 is a bit of a year in limbo for Rory, but he's set himself targets to improve his times and race against the clock, while perfecting his racing,” added Mike. “There is talk of another championship next year - a televised series which we would like to enter. And hopefully that might get Rory out to a wider audience.” If you want to get in touch with Mike, you can contact him at Skinner Motorcycles, 01382 611 500.
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NEWS
Sporting legends meet at Tinto Sir Chris with Mike Skinner and young racing hope, Rory Skinner
FOR a man who's relied on pedal power throughout his life, Sir Chris Hoy demonstrated a fair knowledge of motorbikes and rallying when he turned up at Tinto Park Moto recently. The Olympic hero was in the midst of making a documentary on the late great Colin McRae as part of a BBC series on Sporting Legends. The Lanark-based rally king loved the mud and his motorbikes, so the producers figured Tinto was the ideal place to film. And the SACU youngsters were invited through Robbie Allan to come and meet Chris. Sir Chris meets youngsters at Tinto Park Moto
He spent a fair bit of time watching the kids in action on both the crossers and quads and admitted he was impressed. “I'd love a go myself, but not today unfortunately,” he admitted to Dakar veteran Robbie and his son, Robbie jnr who's no mean biker himself, when he's not solving serious crime on the day job, with Strathclyde Police. “Chris wants to come back soon and try out the bikes for himself,” revealed Robbie. “I don't think he was keen to make his debut in front of a crowd.”
Sir Chris Hoy meets Robbie Allan owner of Tinto Park Moto, rally legend Jimmy McRae and Robbie Allan Jnr.
However, he did get a chance to experience Colin's rally car alongside another rallying legend, Colin's Dad, Jimmy. “He was a big fan of Colin's,” said Jimmy “and I think he enjoyed the ride.” Chris spent a fair bit of time talking to young Rory Skinner and wished him well in his career. And admitted he was “a bit jealous” of his ability at his young age. All pictures Dan Jess Photography
NEWS
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Easton back in saddle for British championships STUART Easton has signed for Mar-Train Racing to campaign an R6 Yamaha in next season's British Championship. And he's also up for the North West 200 aboard an R1. The former champ didn't take any persuading to sign up for the Irish-based race team and despite being a young team, he's confident both he and the team will make their mark on the British Supersport Championship next year. Team boss, Tim Martin, has admitted he discarded several other rider options after Stuart flew over to Northern Ireland last month for talks. “We had a deal within two hours of meeting. He's a down-to-earth lad, with his feet firmly planted on the ground. And we know he can ride! He is a proven supersport rider and a champion. The North West 200 will be the cherry on the cake and we've started building his bike already.� With Yamaha support Mar-Train Racing will be going all out for next season. Stuart himself is back to full health after a near-death crash in the North West 200 during practice. He sustained a ruptured bowel, broke his pelvis in five places and suffered a string of other injuries. Medics feared he might never race again and said it would be a year before he recovered. The determined Scot has amazed both docs and everybody else with his powers of recovery and was assured of a ride next season with a number of teams keen to capture his skill and experience. This week Stuart, pictured, said he was keen to get back to the NW 200, but added that the British was his main goal for the coming season.
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NEWS
From Scottish 6 to The Fast and the Furious 6 WHO knew trials supremo, John Moffat, had Hollywood connections? Not only did he have an Access All Areas pass to the filming of The Fast And The Furious 6 when the movie and stars were in Glasgow recently, but he met up with top US stunt artist, Debbie Evans-Leavitt, who's an old friend, since she and her husband, Lane Leavitt, collaborated on John's SSDT video presentation back in 2007. Lane competed in the Scottish as a factory rider for Bultaco and Montesa - and he's been a three-times AMA National Trials Champion. And Debbie did the Scottish back in 1978, at the age of 19. “I rode all week with Mick Wilkinson and Rob Shepherd, two of the best riders in Britain at the time. It was truly awesome,” she recalls. A year later and she was a pro stunt artist. Next time you are watching the Matrix Reloaded and Carrie-Ann Moss or The Terminator and Linda Hamilton - think Debbie Evans- Leavitt, who doubled for both! And not so long ago, she flew a Honda Civic under an artic trailer at mega-mph and finished with a barrel-roll - doubling for Michelle Rodriguez in the 2003 Fast And The Furious. But then it's in the blood - her Dad, Dave Evans, wheelied a Bultaco Sherpa in the opening frames of the ultimate bike movie, On Any Sunday alongside Steve McQueen. And even her sister, Donna, is a stunt performer.
John Moffat and Debbie in Glasgow recently
Debbie made sure John and the family were the first people she phoned when she arrived in Scotland for filming and had them whisked to the set. “It was great meeting up again,” said John, who revealed the Hollywood pair are determined to return to the Scottish before long. “She really enjoyed her film work in Glasgow,” he told MSS. “Both she and Lane are planning a return to the SSDT, once their youngest daughter graduates high school. It'll be great to have them back where they've so many happy memories of competing in trials.” In Hollywood, the family are legend. Debbie has been inducted into the American Motorcycle Association - Motorcyclist's Hall Of Fame and has numerous awards to her credit. Her trademark stunt is a static headstand, while balanced on a trials bike - with just a rubber band holding the front brake! It's worth checking out the couple's websites at www.debbieevans.com and www.stuntrev.com Meanwhile Mr Moffat is still awaiting that special phone call from Hollywood and dreaming about his own Winnebago! Pics by Jean Moffat & Eric Kitchenshow. Debbie doing her trademark stunt
Aged 19, at start gate of 1978 SSDT with Mick Wilkinson
NEWS THE news for speedway fans' is all good right now - with the Glasgow Tigers under new ownership and the possibility of a full-time practice track for Scotland almost a reality. First off, a crisis meeting held in a Glasgow hotel last month to discuss the future of speedway attracted no fewer than 400 determined fans. And they got the good news that former speedway rider and successful businessman, Alun Biggart from Kilmacolm, had bought the club. Furthermore and subject to final confirmation, the Tigers' will still have a home at Ashfield, where more good news - the club will install floodlights which would allow them to switch to a Friday night fixture! We spoke to former Tigers' boss, Alan Dick, who has pledged to work with the new regime for “as long as they want me.” He said: “Stewart Dickson and myself bowed out as owners after 12-years. We realised that we couldn't keep going and it needed someone else to take the club forward financially. “But I'm giving Alun 100% to bring about the changes needed. Speedway has been in Glasgow since 1946 and the changes already proposed are hopefully going to
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Tigers ROAR Again! benefit the club and bring about a brighter future.” Alan was also enthusiastic about the plans for a national practice track in Lanarkshire. “It's exactly what has been needed and can only be good for the sport in attracting new riders, young blood wanting to learn and commit to speedway. At the moment it costs riders a fortune to head south all the time.” Generally, speedway is on the up. Many UK clubs are experiencing something of a revival in terms of increased attendance and renewed interest in the sport. It's indicative of all twowheeled sport right now - and long may it continue. Alan Dick himself noted that at the “crisis meeting” held in Glasgow, he spotted a lot of familiar faces keen to see the Tigers continue.
“But I also saw a lot of new faces, young people who were obviously interested in speedway and that's a good sign that we in the sport want to see,” he added. Sadly - but perhaps understandably - the 2012 season hasn't been the best for the Glasgow Tigers and their last outing ended in defeat, losing out to Berwick Bandits. The final approval for the takeover and leasing arrangements for the track should be completed before the end of November. The Tigers have struggled through their season of uncertainty, in action against the Rye House Rockets in mid July, and a flyer advertises the make or break meeting in Glasgow.
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CATCHING THE ACT WRITING now at the end of August, it’s difficult to say how its going to go in next year’s British Superbike championships, but let’s see how things are shaping up.
BEN DAVIES is probably motorcycle sport's best-known photographer. He travels the world with the top racing teams and is as wellknown on the grids as some of the riders!
Tommy Hill had a strong season, has a great team and bike, and was riding well. Talk is of a possible move to CRT in the Moto GP championship, allegedly having an option to join the Paul Bird Motorsport Team. Tommy wants to stay with his Swan Yamaha Team preferably in World Superbikes.
His images are enduring, actionpacked and often touching. He's seen the best over the last decade battle it out around the world. A man very much in demand – he's taken time out to give us his take on next season and share some of the best motorcycling shots in the world. As well as via Facebook Page and Twitter, you can see the cream of Ben's work at www.smartfotos.co.uk
Aussie Josh Brookes is riding full of confidence and is the first of the Showdown riders to have something in place for next season having already signed up again for his Tyco Suzuki squad. Irishman Michael Laverty has also put in some solid performances which must be part of the reason he has signed a letter of intent to ride
for the Louth-based Honda squad next year. Alex Lowes is on top form, taking not only his maiden Superbike victory at Silverstone but going on to do the double by winning race 2 as well. Team WFR, with its youth policy, will be keen to retain his services next year and the 22 year old appears to be happy with the team. Tommy Bridewell could surprise on the BMW as he continues to improve. The Supersonic racing team is also listed as one of the teams in discussion with BMW about next year. Shane “Shakey” Byrne at the PBMUK Team also has a vested interest in Moto GP with James Ellison competing in the main Championship on a CRT bike. Team owner Paul Bird’s confidence in Shakey was manifested when he was drafted in at Catalunya to ride Ellison's bike.
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TION Byrne also has experience within the Moto GP class so the move within the same team would be fairly seamless. The 2012 Superstock 1000 Champion & other PBM Team member Keith Farmer would then be in an ideal position to fill the seat left vacant by Byrne. The choice for Bird then comes down to whether he runs Kawasakis in BSB or returns to Ducati with the new Panigales. The other CRT seat looks likely to be filled by Sam Lowes, brother of WFR title chaser Alex, who has been having discussions with Bird about a possible move. It’s going to be an interesting season. Watch this space...
How am I doing? AS always, Valentino Rossi starts his home round with a new helmet and this year was no exception. Vale keeps the design a closely guarded secret, with only his trusted friends, Uccio & its designer Aldo Drudi seeing the finished article before the “unveiling” at free practice at the Misano circuit. I decided this year that I wouldn’t get mixed up in the press scrum so headed out to the far side of the track directly opposite the media centre at turn 8 “Quercia.” The trackside is, at its closest, maybe only six feet away from the riders’ heads. This shot is the result. It has sold but the important thing for me is that I like the image too. For the technically minded it was shot at 1/500th of a second at F9 using ISO 200 on my trusty Canon Eos 1D MkIIN.
The helmet depicts cartoon Rossi as a boxer, on the ropes with bruises, a black eye & missing teeth but importantly...refusing to give in. The inscription is “Come vado?” (How am I doing?) To me his lid sneers at his critics, telling them that the nine times World Champ is not beaten yet, which is why he asks the question
which will be answered fully next year - How am I doing? More images from the Misano round as well as other Moto GP's and full coverage of the British Superbike Championships are available at www.SMARTFotos.co.uk
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New on the forecourts this month… Collector's Piece ONE of only 75 being made, it's Triumph's own tribute to the Daytona. The ‘Super 111’ sports the yellow and black livery of the original Daytona 900 model. However it's very much based on the latter day 675 and kitted out with additional spec, such as quick shifter, carbon cockpit infills, carbon front mudguard, exhaust surround and a hand-painted number from 1- 75 on the tank. A collector’s item for £8,999. The replacement for the Daytona is expected in the showrooms early 2013.
Honda goes old school HONDA have finally given British riders what they've been asking for this past few years! It's the CB1100 - a mix of traditional old school bike with all the advantages of modern technology. The result is a handsome steed indeed, boasting the familiar aircooled inline 4-cylinder engine, tweaked to give modern performance figures. As a long distance naked tourer, it’s got a huge fan base abroad. And Honda UK are persuaded that after all the requests, it's going to be a winner over here too.
Suzuki's million TO celebrate the fact that Suzuki has created more than one million GSX-R models to date, the 2013 GSX-R1000 comes as an anniversary model. In addition to the special paint scheme, you get black Brembo monoblock calipers, complete with gold lettering, gold forks, an engraved number on the steering yoke, celebration tank graphics, a special ignition key, red tops on the forks and that nose cone. No price yet and no firm date for delivery.
Talking tough THIS is the bike Honda will be taking on the world’s toughest rally. The Dakar bike is based on a production model - the CRF 450X Enduro - albeit much modified. For a start it's equipped with Honda's own fuel injection system, which you don't get in the showroom. The Honda Team includes Sam Sunderland from the UK and 11-times Baja champion, Johnny Campbell from the USA. With luck, it could be Honda's sixth victory in the gruelling race.
Get out there! YOU could go round the world on this - or just down to the shops! But wherever you may go, you can bet Triumph's Tiger Explorer XC will get you noticed. Apart from the 55 watt fog lights and the extensive 22mm steel crash bars, not to mention the handguards and belly pan - which come as standard, you will find no less than 54 other must-have accessories for this bike. That's a lot - even by Charley Boorman standards. Based on Triumph's smaller Tiger 800, this machine boasts 137BHP from the 1215cc and comes with cruise control, traction control, switchable ABS and a shaft drive that needs very little TLC. The XC will probably cost around £12k when it hits the showroom in March - and it will be Khaki Green and nothing else.
FJR spruced up IT might be getting on in years, but Yamaha refuse to let go of the FJR 1300! For 2013 it comes armed with two switchable riding modes - Touring and Sport. The power has been boosted a little and you have both traction and cruise control. On the cosmetic front, it's been updated too. What you can't see clearly in our photo is the handsome suede seat covers. Yamaha have shown their faith in the evergreen FJR for next year, being the model chosen to lead their model range.
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Sam’s the man for adventure LIKE the idea of travelling to exotic lands by bike, soaking up the atmosphere and tackling the trials and tribulations of overland adventure - but don't want to leave the house. Then you need to read Sam Manicom. This is a man who has travelled to every corner of the globe, via every bend in the road and come back relatively unscathed - apart from a partner and a new kidney. His passion for the bike matches his need to travel. And his journals soak up every piece of African sand, desert highway and all the colourful characters in-between. Reading a Manicom book is addictive, so thankfully he's now written four, all very different geographically, but instinctively well-written. He’s now out on audio book form - so you can listen in the shed while preparing that bike for your own adventure next year! Catch him at www.sam-manicom.com
American snaps up British icon AT £291,200 this Brough Superior is the most expensive motorcycle ever to be sold at auction! And what a pedigree it has, being the personal transport of Bill Brough himself, who notched up 50 sprint victories on the bike. The record-breaking price is due to the bike's history and previous ownership. Sadly, it isn't going to remain in the UK, having been bought by an American collector who will be shipping it to the US.
Hi-viz gear you’ll want to be seen in HERE’S one of the most sensible pieces of kit we've come across for Winter. It's a hi-viz waistcoat which has a clever expandable back that covers your rucksack and keeps it dry into the bargain. In addition, this waistcoat doesn't look like you've nicked it from a building site, as it's stylish and well put-together. What's more it doesn't cost a fortune at just £35.99. Choose from reflective black or yellow. See the full range at www.two-zero.co.uk
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£1m star shines in
FOR many of us, it’s the highlight of Grampian Conventio
Where else would you see and hear a million q to the track - and with the legend that is Sam many will treasure fo
Jim Hay’s Bentley Tribute
An ex-Barry Sheene bike and no end of r visual delights at Alford this year. And it was a imported into the showground - and the effo new dimension to watc
According to the organisers, the Bon-Accord M this year - by about a dozen people. That's no mea And all credit to the club for ensuring that in the absenc there was still plenty t
As always, the Ducati Glasgow dealership put on a gre loyal customers and fans in attendance, the
Of course you could say the same wherever you looked pits and the ‘commercial end’ of the convention. In any bigger - although it’s something we un
The return of Moped Mayhem went down a storm and it’s that the majority survived virtually unscathed. The onl an electric one and we’re studying the regs to s
Les Morrison Sheene Bultaco
Both on and off the track, the Team Past-It sidecar ou true ambassadors for motorcycle sport. Both before and af many visitors to their stand. Posing for photos, lifting k technically minded and answering all the questi
The only other ambassador of the sport to equal them was shaking hands and talking bikes with anyone who appro proceedings with his demo rides. However, the highlight w
It was good to see such a huge range of classic machiner the showground by their owners. Custom bikes were o seen both inside and outside the showground. An im Jim Hay attracte Mattie Griffin
Another big draw was Ireland’s own Mattie G to his fans. Is there anything this man can the dexterity that he demonstrates, but the shee Mattie one of the best
He’s the best advert for buying a BMW we’ve c do with an F800 should be impossible. If you m at the galleries on the www.grampianmotorcyc
The track action was also blessed with a great supermoto track. The supermoto bikes thems the tight track was putting the Moped mayhem
Once again the club and the museum put on a s
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n stellar line-up
the motorcycling year and this year's on didn't disappoint.
quid’s worth of Moto Guzzi V8 actually taking mmy Miller OBE riding? It's a memory that or the rest of their life.
racing machinery just added to the many available to one and all thanks to the big screen orts of the airborne cameras which added a ching the track action. Quads racing
Motorcycle Club, the visitor numbers were down an feat considering the weather and the recession. ce of one or two (and no more) big name manufacturers, to do and see this year.
eat display of Italiana and with so many of the brand’s stand was packed solid for most of the day.
- thousands lining the trackside and milling between the n fact, it’s hard to see how the convention could get nderstand is under discussion for next year.
a tribute to the rugged reliability of both man and machine ly mode of small capacity motor that was missing was see if we can squeeze our entry in for next year.
Racing action
utfit were outstanding. Robin and Annette Daykin are fter the track action, they spent hours talking to the many, kids on and off their machine, talking technical with the ions asked of them - they were the perfect hosts.
s the legendary Sammy Millar. A true gent, he spent hours oached him. He’s a great guy, who added greatly to the was undoubtedly the Guzzi on track. It’s a superb machine.
ry at Alford - and so many machines actually ridden into on the increase too - and some stunning examples to be mmaculate springer with a Bentley Motors theme by ed the cameras. Supermoto racing
Griffin - or Mad Mattie as he’s better known n't do on a bike? It's not just the balance or er entertainment value he provides that makes stunt riders in the UK.
come across for a while. The things this guy can missed any of the action, it’s worth taking a look cleconvention.com just to check him out again.
t entry from the quads, making full use of the selves were great to see, although it was clear e hems on the riders' abilities.
show that wasn’t just great - it was memorable. Team Past It display
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Forty gear up for Project Motocross PROJECT MOTOCROSS has got off to a flying start with more than 40 turning up for the new club’s agm. The turn-out for the Lockerbie meeting showed decisively that there's an appetite for the sport in the area and has persuaded the club's chairman, Derek Faulds, that it's an absolute must to push on with his plans. The club aims to offer tuition, training, and even basic bike maintenance to young and older members. As we write, the bad news was that two sites identified for club use had to be abandoned due to cost and other problems. However, a third site is looking a lot more likely and the better news is that it's closer to Lockerbie and other amenities. Talks and discussions are ongoing and the club is pretty close to finalising a deal. Project Motocross will be seeking membership fees come January - although there’s nothing to stop you joining up now. New members get a handsome little welcome pack, which includes a club calendar. The fees are a very reasonable £15 for adults, £12 for juniors and £10 for non-competitors. With Derek’s enthusiasm, experience and contacts, Project Motocross looks as though it’s going to be a lively affair, both for the competitor and the enthusiast alike.
He’s keen to see bikers in general on board and determined that the club should be run by, for and on behalf of the membership. If you want to reach Project Motocross, you can touch base via their Facebook page, email them via projectmotocross@live.co.uk or just phone Derek himself, preferably after 7pm on 01387 811 522.
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Road Racing Bruce Birnie secured the Scottish Superbike Championships at the final Scottish Motorcycle Championships meeting at a windswept East Fortune race circuit. Another season dominated by three riders, Andrew Tasker and Perth’s Torquil Paterson, who won two of the four races in the final days of competition.
Bryan Duncanson secured 346 points to take the Superstock 600 Race Race Championships. Callum Paterson finished in second place with 149.5 points and in third place was Angus Mearns on 136.5 points.
A championship ran close and won on points with Birnie finishing on 305, Tasker on 297 and Paterson on 291. The Scottish Super Cup championship was won by Marti Brown who finished the season on 153 points. In second place was Kevin Milne on 107 and third mark Ward on 102. Topping the Scottish Super twins Championship this season was Paul McClung way out ahead with 400 points. In second place was Leon Murphy with 205 points and third Duncan Baillie with 149.
Bruce Birnie celebrates the championship at the final race meeting of the year at East Fortune. Picture by Sylvia Beaumont
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Trials Championships Gary MacDonald (pictured) topped the Scottish Premier Championship for 2012, earning top points in events starting with the Bon Accord club at Craiglash on April 1 and ending with Lochaber at Fersit in September. He collected 100 points. In second place was Andrew Anderson on 85 points and in third Grant Reid who finished on 60. In the Scottish Sportsman Championships Gareth Palmer took first place with 70points. David Anderson second with 63 points and Phil MacRae in third just one behind on 62. The Scottish Clubman Championships title went to Lee Collins who finished the season with 85 points. David Dougan was second with 36 and also on 36 was James McFarlane.
The Youth A Championships went to Jack Dignan, finishing the season with 134 points. Robert Lafferty was second on 125 points and David Eckl third on 112. The Pre 65/Twin Shock Championships was taken by Neil Dawson on 134 points. In second place was Brian Nichol on 65 and third Ozzy Byers on 50. The Over 40s Championships was won by Allister Stewart finishing on 131 points. Jim Tennant finished second on 94 points and third was Alan Crayk on 87.
Got the cash, get the time THE quad racers are still raising cash for a timing clock. To date, they’ve collected almost £2,000 but need more to reach the target. If you can help them, contact Julie via the website at www.quadracingscotland.org.uk
WANT to tell bike fans in Scotland what's going on in your sport? We want to hear. Send all your club results, news and gossip to the SACU at this address: office@sacu.co.uk.
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Enduro Experts 1. Richard Hay 2. Allyn Scotland 3. Derek Little Best Expert under 23 Steven Currie Jnr. Best Expert Newcomer Steven Currie Jnr. Over 40 1. Steven Currie Snr. 2. Mark Ritchie 3. James Harvey Clubman 1. Craig Jagla 2. Stuart Ross 3. Richard McVicker SACU Special Awards Richard Hay ACU Veterans Champion Clubman E1 Richard McVicker Clubman E2 Craig Jagla Clubman E3 Dean Barr
Quad Racing Clubman B Niall Paton Snr Lindsay Rae Hugh O'Neill Sportsman Allan Milligan Richard Williams Leslie Bertram Hare and Hound Champions 2012 Experts 1. Drew Harvey 2. Dean Reid 3. Steven Currie Jnr Over 40 1. Derek Little 2. James Harvey 3. Steven Currie Snr. Clubman 1. Liston Bell 2. Chris Gallagher 3. Ross Hamilton Clubman B 1. Graham Mechan 2. David Paton 3. Mark Grice Sportsman 1. Allan Milligan 2. Sandy Eccles
In the 50cc Standard class, first place went to Robbie Wood, second to Kenzie Kerr and third to Louis Tobin. In the 50cc Modified class, first place went to Mitchel Kerr, second to Justin Gunning and third to JJ Redman. Cai Lindsay took the title in the 100cc Standard. In the 100cc Geared class, first place went to Bailey Edwards, second to Lawrence Whyte and third to Nash Singer. In the 100cc Modified class, first place went to Aaron Swan, second to Taylor Mair and third to Ryan Morris. In the 200cc Standard class, first place went to Jay Gunning, second to Lorne Sinclair and third to Murray Fleming. In the 200cc Modified class, first place went to Murray Graham, second to Cameron Barr and third to Mitchell Young. In the 250cc Open class, first place went to James Frew, second to Taylor Gibb and third to Adam James. In the Over 40s class, first place went to Ian Neill, second to Richard Cornett and third to Neil Alexander. In the Adult support class, first place went to AJ Third, second to Warren Allen and third to James Murphy. In the Adult championship top title went to Connor Smith, with Scott Sinclair second and Leon Beda in third.
Race is on to find ultimate biker THE final plans for the SACU’s centenary competition are almost there. And the race to find the ultimate biker is on! Since it was announced in the last issue, there’s been a flurry of interest from riders desperate to secure one of the 40 places which will be made available for this event. Only open to those riders willing to demonstrate the true spirit of motorcycling by taking part in EVERY discipline - the rewards are rich with the winner securing the No 1 Plate and a pocketful of notes. Dates are still being finalised and final details worked out, but it's imperative you lodge your interest in securing a portion of that £2.5k prizemoney. Robbie Allan, who's organising the event, told MSS: “I don't doubt it will be tough going - but the rider can score highly in his own particular discipline, be that motocross or road racing
and opt out of just one event of the series. And in the final reckoning, the best four events will be the ones that count.” There will be opportunities to hire, beg or borrow the required machinery and the organisers are prepared to help anyone find the ride they need. It’s an awesome opportunity to show your skills across almost every aspect of Scottish motorcycle sport - and to the winner goes the pride in knowing that he (or she) is No 1. Motocross, road racing, enduro, quad rider or whatever, you’ll need an SACU licence obviously and a high standard of physical fitness. And that's before we get to the bonus points - only awarded to those prepared to ride passenger in a sidecar outfit. Final details will be up on the SACU website at www.sacu.co.uk and if you need a chat, phone Robbie on 07743 455 217
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Leather or Denim
The big biker debate sees a kevolution
by Derek Stewart-Brown SALES of Kevlar reinforced denim are fast overtaking leather for protective clothing on the roads, according to one of the UK’s biggest mail-order retailers. Infinity Motorcycles have seen a 20 per cent rise in sales of casual denim riding gear over traditional leather kit. The reasons are many and varied and include cost, fashion and the increase in small capacity bike riders. It’s a subject that gets many hot under all that leather - or denim. The truth is that we don't know of any extensive comparison tests that have been done to settle the issue once and for all. And while you'll find plenty of video and photographs from Kevlar peddlers showing the undoubted ability of their jeans to absorb abrasion in a
slide that would take the hide off an elephant, you can't seem to find a Kevlar versus leather test! The best evidence seems to come from abrasion tests carried out less than scientifically by taking a grinder to leather, Kevlar, textiles and a pair of cheap jeans for good measure. In every test, leather came out on top although Kevlar was generally just behind. What we can say for certain is that a good set of leathers are pretty much for life and will soak up season after season of rain, midges, scuffs and scrapes, whereas Kevlar just doesn't. Wash those Kevlar jeans too often and you'll end up with a pair of baggy
trousers that wouldn't look out of place on Charlie Chaplin. And of course, take a spill and while they will do the job, they'll do it just once before they are consigned to the bin. But then if you only paid a £75 quid for them, and the alternative was a £200 pair of leather jeans it could be worth it? It's a point of view, you might suppose. However before you go down that road (not literally obviously) and if you are determined to shun the leather for textile of any sort, it’s worth remembering that the construction is critical. Never, ever, buy an item that suggests a single layer. Effective fabric riding kit must be made up of various layers of different materials which do different things such as protect you from the
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weather, absorb impact and of course resist abrasion. Strictly speaking you should aim to find the number EN 13595 somewhere, which means that it at least meets European safety standards. And that goes for leather too. These days you'll find endless cheap leather kit that's thin and subsequently next to bloody useless. Aim for a thickness of 1.2 or more and pay attention again to the construction, seams and padding where you need it. Personally I think there’s a lot to be said for buying the best you can afford. Treat every bit of kit from boots to gloves as you would when you buy a helmet! Just last week I spotted a young lad on a brand new 125 wearing shorts, t-shirt and a pair of trainers. That’s scary stuff and made worse by the fact that he was passed by a police car which didn't look to be in any hurry to stop and offer some advice.
We’ll regularly test and highlight good quality riding gear in the magazine. But if you've got any views, opinions or expertise on this whole debate, don't be shy about letting us know via mail to the office or email office@sacu.co.uk
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BUSINESS DIRECTORY
THOUSANDS of bikers in Scotland see this magazine. If you'd like your business to be seen in this business directory call Robbie Allan on 07743 455217
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BUSINESS DIRECTORY
THOUSANDS of bikers in Scotland see this magazine. If you'd like your business to be seen in this business directory call Robbie Allan on 07743 455217
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Take a minute…
What is and who are the SACU Management and Organisation?
To remember friends and supporters of motorcycle sport in Scotland who have died since September.
The Scottish Auto Cycle Union (SACU) is the recognised governing body for motorcycle sport in Scotland, made up of affiliated sporting motorcycle clubs. In effect it is a union of Scottish Motorcycle sporting clubs. If you are a member of an affiliated club, then you too are effectively part of the Scottish ACU.
George Lloyd – 19 September 1941 – 10 September 2012. George was well known in the motorcycle industry both in the UK and the world over. With his brother he was in Lloyd Bros. Motorcycles in Hamilton for many years before moving to Penrith where he headed up the very successful Lloyd Lifestyle. Patricia (Pat) Darge – 3 January 1944 – 2 October 2012 Pat and her family were great motor-sport enthusiasts and she worked tirelessly in the sport and was 15 years the Secretary of Avon Valley Motorcycle Club. Her great love of tennis meant she became the winner of many competitions and even her home club championship. John Noble Sommerville (Jack) Died on the 23 October aged 72. Jack was one of the top off road competitors in the 1960s and continued to enjoy the sport for many decades. He was popular and respected by so many. Moira Degan. Died suddenly on 16 November at her home in Croftamie. She was married to Jack and was his constant companion as they worked together for motorcycle sport especially Trials.
It adopts the Handbook and National Sporting Code of the Auto Cycle Union annually, which it has had links with for nearly 100 years. The ACU is the governing body for all types of motorcycle sport in the United Kingdom and is recognised and part of the FIM (Federation International Motocycleste). Some of the ACU rules are modified to suit the specific needs of the various motorcycle sports in the territory of Scotland. These modifications are issued each year after careful consideration by the various sporting committees. The individual sporting rules are available as a download from the SACU website. The individual motorcycle sports are controlled and monitored by what is called "Sporting Disciplines" in the case of the SACU, the sporting committees for
Motocross; Trials; Racing; Quad Racing and Enduro are elected from the membership of our affiliated clubs on an annual basis, normally up to a three year term at the Annual General Meeting (AGM), held in February each year. Also the SACU company accounts are distributed to member club delegates at the AGM. All the discipline committee members are volunteers, they receive no fees or salaries for their attendance at events other than modest travelling expenses, which they can choose to claim or indeed donate back to their discipline fund. Likewise, the chairperson of each discipline committee is also a member of the SACU Management Committee (Board of Directors); again this is a voluntary position. No SACU director is paid fees or a salary and all these people are involved for the enjoyment and promotion of their chosen motorcycle sport. Thus each sporting element of Motorcycle Sport in Scotland is represented on the main SACU Management Committee. The SACU employ three administration members of staff, these are salaried positions and they are accountable to the SACU Management Committee. For full details of who does what at the SACU please refer to the Organisation Chart, available as a download from the SACU website.