KIWI RIDER MAGAZINE JULY 2017 by KIWI RIDER MAGAZINE

2018 GAS GAS EC300 THE SPANISH PHOENIX RISES

TRIUMPH STREET CUP COOL, CLASSY CAFE RACER

MOTORCYCLE MAGAZINE JULY 2017

SINCE 1984

 

GAS GAS EC300 SUZUKI VSTROM 1000 & 650 YAMAHA WR450F KTM ADVENTURE RANGE TRIUMPH STREET CUP NICKY HAYDEN

SUZUKI’S UPDATED ADVENTURE TOURERS RIDDEN AND RATED

   

GRAVEL ROADS & BEYOND The KTM Adventure Range is as extreme as you want $10 INCL GST

JULY 2017

INDIAN BACK ON THE BONNEVILLE SALT WITH A MUNRO YAMAHA WR450F ‘BLING-BLING’ • NICKY HAYDEN TRIBUTE THE ENDURING PARALLEL TWIN • NZ SUPERBIKE CHAMP PING-PONG

Valentino Rossi 9-TIME GRAND PRIX WORLD CHAMPION

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Extreme Standards Helmets based on the innovative “Human Engineering” design process. The result is an externally smaller but safer helmet designed around the shape of the head.

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To enter the draw to win a MICHELIN FACTORY TENT you must purchase a set of new Michelin Motorcycle Tyres (F+R) from a participating dealer in one transaction. Then simply email a photo of your receipt to michelin@northacc.co.nz along with your contact details, the invoice number, and the dealer’s name. Entries close 20th June 2017. Winners notied 22nd June. Tents will be available for collection from your nominated dealer on 30th June. Prize draw can not be exchanged for cash.

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MICHELIN Scorcher 11 The MICHELIN radial tyre developed exclusively for the Harley-Davidson V-Rod , Sportster , Fat Boy and all the Street models

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DASHBOARD 20

GOODBYE KENTUCKY KID

The racing world was shocked at the loss of 2006 MotoGP World Champ Nicky Hayden. Michael Esdaile remembers the most popular man in the racing paddock.

FLIP-FLOP IT’S ALL CHANGE

TRIUMPH STREET CUP

JUL 17

This year’s Superbike championship title winner is still up in the air. First it was Frost, then Rees... now it’s back to Frost, but that isn’t the end of it.

With a true cafe-racer style and feel, Triumph’s Street Cup has quite captivated KR tester Peter Elliott.

SUZUKI V-STROM LAUNCH

The DL1000 and DL650 represent Suzuki’s sport adventure range. The 650 is heavily updated for this year and the 1000 gets a handy braking boost.

KTM ADVENTURE RANGE

Tar-seal, gravel roads... and beyond. KTM’s Adventure range will do it all. Jock McLauchlan came away impressed with Austria’s finest.

LIGHT MY FIRE

TRICK YAMAHA WR450F

The phoenix is rising; resurgent Spanish manufacturer Gas Gas has shown its 2018 EC300 to show the company is back on track. We went to Spain to test the 2018 machine.

Bling... bling.... bling... Yep, this is one rather tricked-up Yamaha WR450F.

78 KIWI RIDER

Hello...

H EDITOR Ben Wilkins

Contributions: Kiwi Rider welcomes editorial contributions from its readers. If you would like to write something for KR e-mail a précis to editor@kiwirider. co.nz. Electronic transmission of words (Microsoft Word .doc) and pictures (hi-res jpgs) preferred.

ELLO... and welcome to the July issue of Kiwi Rider. The motorcycle racing world is reeling after the shocking news that 2006 MotoGP World Champion, and all round good egg, Nicky Hayden has succumb to injuries he sustained when hit by a car while training on his bicycle near Rimini, Italy. Hayden has been a popular and enduring figure on the World racing scene since his arrival in MotoGP in 2003. Turn to page 20 for more on the most popular man in the racing paddock. In our own premier domsetic championship things are still up in the air. Last month we announced Tony Rees had been declared this year’s superbike champion by MNZ following

OUR NEW DIGITAL MAGAZINE KR REPORT GIVES YOU ALL THE LATEST GRASSROOTS MOTORCYCLING EVENTS NEAR YOU. AND IT’S FREE! TAKE A LOOK HERE... http://joom.ag/2gtW

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Advertising: Got a hot product or service and want some real bang for your advertising buck? KR offers a complete inhouse advertising design and production service. Pete (pete@kiwirider.co.nz) or Todd (todd@kiwirider.co.nz) Published by: McStannic Publishing Ltd Postal Address: P.O. Box 299, Kumeu, Auckland Courier Address: Kiwi Rider c/o Fullerton Motorcycles, Unit 1, 156 A Main Road, Kumeu. Phone: 09 411 7815 Fax: 09 411 7815 Publisher: Pete McPhee: 027 4 74 8 675 Email: pete@kiwirider.co.nz sales and Marketing: Pete McPhee 027 4 74 8 675 Email: pete@kiwirider.co.nz Bike Mart adertising: Todd Sutherland: 021 709 989 Design/layout: Marcel Norkia design@kiwirider.co.nz Photographer: Geoff Osborne Ph 09 415 2555 ospics1@xtra.co.nz REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS: Rodney O’Connor, Roger Moroney, Andy McGechan, Ben Townley, Michael Esdaile, Jock McLauchlan, Sam Greenslade and Racing Dave. On-line Editor: Marcel Norkia Office manager: Linda Glasswell Printers: PMP Maxum

a review... but it’s all change following a ruling by the Sports Tribunal of New Zealand, which reverts the title to Sloan Frost. For now... until a new MNZ Judiciary Committee sits again. It’s a crazy situation, and one we’d like to see sorted quickly before it becomes even more of a debacle. Head to page 26 to get abreast of the situation. Adventure bikes are the hottest property in the market at the moment. Both Suzuki and KTM launched their latest adventure machines in Australia. Turn to pages 38 and 48 for more. Spanish manufacturer Gas Gas has released its first machine under new ownership the EC300. Go to page 72 to check it out. Enjoy the mag. BEN WILKINS

FRONT END 9  NEWS

 ROAD PRODUCTS

ROOST ZONE 57  NEWS

 DIRT PRODUCTS

BACK END 84  BIKE MART

Essential services and products for you and your bike.

 CLASSICS

 EVENTS CALENDAR

 ROGER MORONEY

Rossi injured in MX accident; NZ Superbikes shakeup 2; Grid girls... or grid boys?; A Munro back on the salt.

Dungey calls it a day; Dirt Guide Series; Cross Country Nationals.

Need it, want it, must have it... you’ll find the latest bike and rider gear right here.

Everything you need to keep you and your dirt bike in tip-top condition.

The parallel twin engine type is one of the most enduring configurations.

Distribution: Gordon & Gotch Ltd, McStannic Publishing Ltd. Opinions: Opinions expressed in Kiwi Rider are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the publishers accept no liability for any error or omissions contained herein.

Kiwi ingenuity is alive and well in motorcycle racing; necessity is the mother of invention..

 RACE RESULTS

Who’s done what in which championship.

Copyright: This magazine is copyright in its entirety. Material may not be printed without the written permission of the publishers. ISSN 1177-0023 Cover image: Andrew Gosling

KIWI RIDER

NEXT ISSUE OF KIWI RIDER MAGAZINE GOES ON SALE MONDAY JULY 10

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FREE PANNIERS* WORTH $1,900 WHEN YOU BUY ANY NEW TIGER 800.

As rugged and durable as the Tiger 800 itself, Triumph Expedition Aluminium Panniers are ready for any adventure. And now for a limited time, they’re free when you buy a new Tiger 800 XRX, XRT, XCX or XCA. Built to perform, the Expedition Panniers are Triumph branded, water-resistant and have one-key locking using the bike’s ignition key. Plus, with 37 litres of storage – you can pack in all the adventure you want. To try out the dynamism and agility of the Tiger 800’s rider-focused switchable ABS, traction control and cruise control for yourself, book a test ride today. *Terms and conditions apply

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Munro back on the salt

t’s been 50 years since Burt Munro took his Indian Scout Streamliner to the Bonneville Salt Flats and made history – a story immortalised in the feature film, The World’s Fastest Indian, starring Sir Anthony Hopkins. This August, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Munro’s iconic land speed record, Indian Motorcycle is teaming up with Kiwi road racer Lee Munro, Burt Munro’s great nephew, to recreate a historic run at Bonneville on Sunday August 13. The team isn’t competing in any class of racing, just purely making a run on the salt flats to pay homage to the legendary Burt Munro and to set a speed record on a modern-day Indian Motorcycle – called the Spirit of Munro Scout. Munro’s legacy transcends motorcycles and symbolises the much broader drive to push beyond conventional limitations to experience or achieve what is seemingly impossible. Burt Munro’s name is known by shed builders across the globe and is the ultimate example of the gritty, adrenaline-fuelled pastime of expanding the limits of speed

at the Bonneville Salt Flats. “Motorcycling is about shedding boundaries and limitations to go beyond the norm and there is no better example of that than Burt Munro,” said Reid Wilson, Indian Motorcycle Marketing Director. “Driven by unparalleled determination and a legendary passion for the pursuit, Burt Munro embodies the spirit of Indian Motorcycle and we couldn’t be prouder to honour his legacy with an updated version of his historic record on the Bonneville Salt Flats in August.” Lee Munro will pilot a modern-day Indian Scout with a powertrain modified by the Indian Motorcycle engineering team and a slick aerodynamic

shell in an effort to become the world’s fastest modern day Indian motorcycle. The run will not break Burt’s record, but instead will honour his storied legacy in the world of motorcycling.

Indian’s team of engineers volunteered to be a part of this historic attempt, working on the project ‘after hours’ and have been fuelled by their own ambition to push beyond boundaries. The team

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QUALITY EXHAUSTS UPGRADE LOOK AND SOUND Top-quality Remus exhaust systems are now available in NZ. Developed and made in Austria, they’re designed for the discerning customer after a high-quality sound and look for their motorcycle. All Remus after-market exhaust systems work with standard OEM fuelling — there is no need to re-tune or re-chip your bike. Distributor: Eurobike Wholesale Price: From $599 Info: eurobike.co.nz

BADASS COMBAT WARRIORS NEED BADASS PROTECTION Scorpion’s EXO Combat aero-tuned wind-tunnel-tested three-quarter helmet shell includes a drop-down visor with an anti-fog coating. Now attach the front mask for that badass look. Less badass, the hypoallergenic liner is removable, washable and soft to the touch. A vent system reduces lift, and light smoke and dark smoke visors are included. Distributor: Darbi Accessories Size style: S to XXL, Ratnick matt black/silver, matt black Price: $399 or $459 (Graphic) Info: motorcyclegearnz.com

NEXT-GENERATION LASTS LONGER Metzeler’s Tourance Next uses a dual-compound rear tread derived from the award winning Roadtec Z8 Interact tyre to improve cornering and wet-weather performance without sacrificing mileage. The front tyre is a mono-compound with a high silica content, and both tyres benefit from revised profiles. More street-oriented than the previous Tourance EXP, it promises significantly more mileage. Distributor: Forbes & Davies Size: To suit the latest generation Adventure touring bikes in 17in, 19in and 21in fitments. Price: From $219 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

ALL-RIDER ALL-WEATHER HAND PROTECTION RJays’ Booster winter glove for men or women is an all-new winter glove with sports styling and protection. Made of A-Grade drum dyedleather and polyester, it has a Thinsulate liner for comfort and warmth plus a waterproof and breathable insert, Kevlar and Superfabric abrasion pads on the palm, silver reflective striping and a double Velcro wrist and cuff closure. Distributor: Northern Accessories Style: Black or black/yellow Price: $99.95 Info: northern.co.nz

BRIGHT-SPARK BIKE GUARD Designed for everyday use, these tough, compact Luma Enduro 91D Disc Locks feature a hardened steel 5mm locking pin. The lock body combines steel and plastic construction, and an anti-moisture cover protects the lock from the elements. Finish is in fluorescent yellow, to help draw attention when fitted to the brake disc. Distributor: Forbes & Davies Price: $69 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

ROADSTER ALL-DAY EVERY WAY BOOT RST’s new Roadster boot is styled like a traditional lace-up work boot. Made of grade-A full-grain leather, it’s designed for riding, so features a full-length side zip and Velcro to allow quick access, a double layer leather shift change pad, a heavy duty stitched-on sole, reinforced heel and toe box and ankle reinforcement. Distributor: Nationwide Accessories Size style: 41/UK7 to 47/UK12 Price: $229 Info: nwa.co.nz

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HIGH-TECH GLOVES FOR HIGH-TECH HANDS The Five WFX Max WP is a technical winter glove with a neoprene upper and Pittard Digital leather palm for feel and grip in wet weather, plus a one-piece carbon knuckle shell, mini shells on fingers and palm, vented PU injected forearm panels, a double cuff with a neoprene layer for good heat seal, a breathable-waterproof membrane and an insulating lining. Distributor: Darbi Accessories Price: $279 Info: motorcyclegearnz.com

WIZARD WAXED COTTON FOR MAGICAL RIDES The Merlin brand of high-quality waxed cotton jackets is new to NZ. Its Hamstall jacket combines Halley Stevenson Scottish waxed cotton with a temperature-regulating removable liner. It also features CE-approved armour in shoulders and elbows, a waterproof and breathable membrane, YKK zips, and plenty of pockets. Distributor: Eurobike Wholesale Price: $599 Info: eurobike.co.nz or Ericksen Honda, Napier, Techmoto in Auckland, Image Motorcycles in New Plymouth

SHOW-LIKE SHINE FOR BIKES AND MORE Kawasaki Performance Wax & Shine Detailer is the all-in-one detailer that cleans, shines and protects all painted surfaces, chrome parts, windshields and plastics. Its carnauba wax formulation and easy spray applicator provides a deep show-like shine to make your vehicle’s painted surfaces come to life – best yet, it’s as good on your car as your bike! Distributor: Kawasaki NZ Size style: 355ml bottle Price: $27.45 Info: kawasaki.co.nz

TWO-IN-ONE SPINE GUARD Forma Akira C.L.M. Smart Back Protectors are essentially two back protectors in one. A patented SMART fastening/unfastening system joins or divides the two parts for use as either a full back protector or just to cover your lower lumbar area. Either option has CE approval and delivers premium protection and comfort. Distributor: Forbes & Davies Size: Range of sizes for optimum fit Price: $229 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

CARBON LOOKS FOR COOL RIDES Whether your bike’s a style-free zone, or your paint is so cool it needs protection, Keiti Carbon 3D tank pads could be for you. Two design options of carbon-look pads are available, to keep jacket zips and trim from your paint, or to further enhance your bike’s look. Distributor: Nationwide Accessories Price: $35.95 Info: nwa.co.nz

FEND OFF THE BIG FREEZE WITH EASE Don’t knock them until you’ve tried them... either in the freezing South or the damp and windy North — you won’t live without them again. Tarmac heated grips are a breeze to install and offer five, simple stepped heat ranges. The control unit is fully waterproof, and comes with a 7/8th-inch bar mount. Distributor: Northern Accessories Size style: available for 7/8” and ATV bars Price: $99.95 Info: northern.co.nz

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REMEMBERING THE

KENTUCKY KID

Words: Michael Esdaile / Photos: As credited

Nicholas Patrick Hayden July 30, 1981 - May 22, 2017

t seems unreal. The ever-smiling Nicky Hayden, ‘The Kentucky Kid’, is dead at just 35 years of age. Hayden died on May 22 as the result of injuries sustained just outside the race circuit at Rimini in Italy on May 17 when he and his bicycle collided with a car at an intersection. The impact broke his bicycle in two and saw Hayden hospitalised with severe head and chest injuries. He was later transferred to the intensive care unit at Bufalini hospital in Cesena. His mother Rose and brother Tommy joined his fiancée Jackie Marin at his hospital bedside. Hayden had been cycling as part of his training following the Imola round of the Motul Superbike World Championship three days earlier. He remained in intensive care on life support with “a serious polytrauma with subsequent serious cerebral damage,” according to a statement from the hospital. “The prognosis remains reserved.” On May 22 he was pronounced dead. Nicholas Patrick Hayden was born on July 30, 1981 in Owensboro, Kentucky, the third son of Earl and Rose Hayden and middle child of the five Hayden children, Tommy, Jenny, Roger and Kathleen. Although he played various sports, his life-long love was motorcycle racing, something he shared with his parents who were both former racers, as well as his brothers and sisters. Shortly after he could walk, Nicky declared that his dream was to be a world champion. Although life on a farm meant that animals — horses, pigs, even llamas

Hayden jubilent on the podium at Assen 2006, the year he won the MotoGP World Championship

— were a part of everyday life, for Nicky they were just novelties, and while he was a natural athlete, childhood sports leagues were little more than a lark. Racing — for the whole family, but especially for Nicky — was everything. Trying to keep up with his older brothers, he was riding at the age of three and racing two years after that. The Hayden children would turn endless laps around a short-track on the family property with father Earl watching over them, and clocking their lap times. Some years later, Nicky would sometimes sneak away from school mid-afternoon to practice his dirt-track skills. The Hayden family was a fixture on the amateur dirt-track scene and the brothers eventually also took up club road-racing

KIWI RIDER

is the Superbike Champ? Words: Michael Esdaile / Photos: Andy McGechan

Whakatane Honda dealer Tony Rees became 11 times New Zealand Champion following the decision of a Motorcycling New Zealand (MNZ) Judiciary Committee hearing on April 8. This hearing reversed a March 4 decision by MNZ Steward Trevor Heaphy at Hampton Downs. But wait, there’s more...

ees had just 33 days to savour his ‘win’ before a decision of the Sports Tribunal of New Zealand reversed the March 4 decision, handing back the title to Sloan Frost – pending a further hearing of the MNZ Judiciary Committee. Rees had arrived at the final round of the MNZ Superbike Championship at Hampton Downs on March 4 with a massive 42.5 point series lead over Frost (Fujitsu Suzuki GSX-R1000). But at a meeting of Superbike riders, called by Assistant Steward Trevor Heaphy an hour before Saturday morning’s first Hampton Downs Superbike race, Heaphy announced that he had retrospectively awarded half winning points to Frost for Race 2, Part 1 at Taupo the weekend before and relegated Rees to second in that race. Frost had crashed out of second place on lap four of that race, pushed his Suzuki off the track then collapsed in what some observers called a “foetal position.” The race was later red-flagged, with the field by then on the sixth lap. MNZ rule 6.21 Stopping & Starting a Race, part B reads “If three or more laps but less than two thirds of the race distance have taken place: “a. The race shall be considered to be more than one part. The race positions at the end of the lap preceding the stopping of the race will be the grid positions if a restart takes place… “d. Half points will be awarded to each part. If it is impossible to restart the race, half points only will be awarded towards the championship.” At the time, Taupo MNZ Steward Warren New, following the

above rule, declared the results of Superbike Race 2 at the five-lap mark (one lap preceding the stoppage), and with Rees leading at that point, the Whakatane man got 12.5 points (half the usual 25 points for a win). Frost got five championship points for sixth place. But a week later, Heaphy told the Superbike riders the result from Race 2 at Taupo “did not look right” to him, so he had decided to declare the results as at the end of lap four, when Frost was leading. In doing this, he was over-ruling MNZ Steward Warren New’s decision from the previous weekend. Heaphy’s ruling gave Frost an additional 7.5 points and took 2.5 points away from Rees, thus closing the gap between the two to 32.5 points, ten less than what had been the case following the Taupo round. Rees subsequently ended the weekend half a point behind Frost in Heaphy’s revised points tally, so the Championship was awarded to Frost, subject to appeal. On March 7, Rees lodged a Notice of Appeal with MNZ, citing what he saw as a Steward’s ruling in breach of the MNZ regulations. MNZ convened an Appeal Committee which appointed Errol Conaghan as Chair, with Dan Batchelor and Jim Doherty the two other members of a Judiciary Committee, with an independent secretary to record proceedings. On Saturday April 8, the three-man MNZ Judiciary Committee heard Rees’ appeal and issued the following statement: “This appeal, arising from the decision taken at Round 4 of the NZSBK Championship held at Hampton Downs on 4th March 2017, to adjust results from Round 3 Superbike Race 2 held on 25 -26 February 2017 was heard by the Motorcycling New

Zealand Judiciary Committee on Saturday 8th April 2017. “The meeting Steward Warren New along with Second Steward Trevor Heaphy and Tony Rees were present. No witnesses were called. “After hearing from both parties and reading various supporting documentation presented, it is the unanimous view of the Committee, that we feel there is no provision within the MNZ Manual of Motorcycle Sport to post-adjust event race results unless from an appeal. An adjustment on the day can only come after a protest or an investigation by the Steward using the provisions of Rule 7.1.1. There were no reported protests or appeals lodged during or immediately after this meeting. “It is also the belief of the appeal panel that the original results from Taupo were correctly determined after the race stoppage. “The appeal was successful and the results must be returned to original. These results will be updated on the MNZ website.” Consequently, Rees had the 2.5 points taken off him by Heaphy given back, while Frost lost the 7.5 additional points awarded post-event from Taupo. That alone was enough to give Rees his third New Zealand

Superbike Championship, and his 11th national title – ironically after a championship season he originally had no intention of contesting. But there was more to come.

An interesting precedent

Ree’s son Mitchell also lodged an appeal with MNZ following the Hampton Downs meeting, this one also involving Rule 6.21

 MNZ Rule 6.21, C “If two thirds of the race distance is completed: a. This shall be declared a full race. The finishing order shall be at end of the lap preceding the stopping of the race. b. Full championship points will be awarded Stopping & Starting a Race, part B and related to the stopping and re-starting of the third Superbike race at Hampton Downs on Sunday, March 5. This race, the New Zealand Superbike TT, was scheduled to be run over 20 laps. That race was red-flagged on lap five with the re-started race scheduled for 16 laps. The re-started race (Race 3A) was also red-flagged, this time after seven laps. KIWI RIDER

Words: Peter Elliott / Photos: Geoff Osborne

Triumph’s Street Cup has got the looks to get Peter Elliott hot under the collar.

will admit that I am a strange person occasionally, but every time I got on this bike, or saw it parked glowing like a yellow sun, I had one song run through my brain on high rotate. Dire Strait’s Romeo and Juliet album had some great songs on it, but it was the title track’s lyrics that really stuck in my head.

A lovestruck Romeo sings a ‘Street Cup’ serenade, Laying everybody low with a love song that he made, Finds a convenient streetlight, steps out of the shade, Says something like, you and me babe, how ‘bout it? My apologies to Mark Knopfler. “Street suss” is correct, but Street Cup just twanged into my head every time. Even the swinging Dobro, guitar-picking start clanged along in my silly nut; live riding

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Keen to stay fresh in the adventure touring market, Suzuki has given its V-Strom 650 and 1000 some love for 2017.

uzuki Japan sees its V-Strom as roadbased ‘adventure’ machines. While the factory may pitch the V-Strom in that direction there are plenty of owners who use their machines for gravel road exploring and the odd dirt track. Take Geoff Osborne, our photographer, as a perfect example – his early model DL1000 runs on knobby tyres and is regularly pitted against the big South Island passes. Thankfully, the NZ and Aussie marketing departments at Suzuki know their markets. Kiwis and Aussies are a bit more adventurous than most and, despite Suzuki Japan calling the bikes Sports Adventure Tourers, they’ve got so much more potential. As if to prove the point, Suzuki NZ sent us to try the new bikes through the dusty goldfields and lush rain forests of Northern Queensland, Australia.

CHANGES

Confusingly, Suzuki is calling this year’s DL1000 V-Strom the 2018 model, despite it being launched in 2017. Whatever, the 1000 received a very welcome complete redesign in 2014 so it gets more of a refresh for this year. The front ‘beak’ designed has been made longer and less beak-like, to more closely resemble that of Suzuki’s DR Big, while the screen has been modified following customer feedback which showed riders were experiencing wind buffeting, something I noted in my test from

Words: Ben Wilkins / Photos: Andrew Gosling

KIWI RIDER

Words: Jock McLauchlan / Photos: Greg Smith/iKapture

Not content with making the biggest big-bike adventure range, KTM has tickled them significantly for 2017. Jock McLauchlan reports from the Blue Mountains...

hat a launch, what an occasion and bloody hell... what a bike! Well, bikes actually. When you get invited to the launch of KTM’s 2017 Adventure bike range you can tell it’ll be a treat. When you hear the launch ride is set near Katoomba, in the heart of the Blue Mountains, where offroad trails are virtually endless, you get quite excited. And then when you finally lay eyes on your new machine complete with Akrapovic muffler, Continental TKC80 knobbly tyres and a full KTM Hard Parts bashplate... well, not only does it endorse in my mind further that KTM takes adventure bikes and riding them very seriously, my excitement levels start to nudge the limiter. But firstly, I should back it up a bit. After touching down in Sydney we jumped in a van for the 100-odd km drive to Lilianfels Blue Mountains resort and spa. Lilianfels in Katoomba is right at the stunning Echo point lookout above the Three Sisters – they are three very impressive, weathered

sandstone peaks. They’re a beautiful sight in the early morning light. They, and the massive surrounding valley, are all part of the greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Site and absolutely worth stopping for if you happen to be passing that way. Anyway, arriving at Lilianfels, a fabulous place with an elegant, timeless air, riders were greeted by the ever friendly face of KTM Events Manager, Rosie Lalonde and Marketing Manager Nicole Leong. Because our plane was late (broken rubber band I think), we barely had time to admire the lines of immaculate new 1290/1090 S and R models before being handed an arm load of KTM promo items, ushered to our rooms and told “press conference in five minutes”. So, bag of gear emptied onto the bed I headed down to the conference room to hear all the gossip (facts) about the new models. Walking in, Rosie (god bless her) handed me a piping hot, toasted sandwich with everything - because of the plane hiccup, we had missed lunch and I was having a near death experience from starvation... fortunately, on the cusp of tragedy, it was averted.

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Dungey calls it a day

ulti-time American motocross and supercross champion Ryan Dungey has announced his retirement from the sport. His successes include a total of nine AMA Supercross and Motocross Championships, including four AMA 450SX titles (2017, 2016, 2015, 2012), three AMA 450 Class MX titles (2015, 2012, 2010), an AMA West Coast SX Lites title (2009) and an AMA 250 Class MX title (2009). Dungey was also a vital part of the U.S. Team’s success in 2009, 2010 and 2011 to bring home three Motocross des Nations Championships. The KTM factory rider, who was also formerly a factory rider for Suzuki, made the announcement in the United States in May that he was retiring, “Good morning and I want to thank you all for coming out. It’s hard to believe this day has come, but today I announce my retirement from motocross and supercross”, said Dungey KTM team manager Roger DeCoster spoke on Dungey taking over the team manager role. De Coster; “I am sure the chance will be there, but I don’t know if he is ready tomorrow to put in the time. He will take a break now and maybe we ask Ryan this time next year. If that is his choice he can do that.” Dungey responded; “There will be never be a team manager like Roger, [with] so much experience and that helped my career move forward. Being down with the racing side, and have some time off.

by Andy McGechan “For me and my wife we have travelled a lot and want to enjoy other things. Jumping right into that, travelling so much, it’s too soon,” said Dungey. “I have so much experience from racing and it would be a waste to not apply it forward and help the next generation. Not racing the outdoors, I will be there for Marvin [Musquin], and if I can do that great. Roger is the team manager and he has a lot more experience than I do. “It wasn’t a one day thing, it was a good year of thinking about things and I remember after the Colorado race and I thought let’s do another two more [years], but I needed to pump the brakes. “Back in November it was weighing on me a bit and I didn’t know where I was, I talked to [trainer] Aldon [Baker] and we said let’s get through Supercross. As things were coming I think I knew, but going through Vegas and leading up to it, I just thought to myself I have had enough. I pushed it and I am mentally exhausted. I think in November, win or lose, that might be it after Vegas.” When he broke his neck last year it caused him to think long and hard about where he was at. “It woke me up for sure, but not knowing it was broke, but racing the race. Monday, we saw it was broken. The doctor said had it gone anymore I could have done damage to my spinal cord. I said to Lindsey [his wife] ‘I am done’, but I took my time, gathered myself. It weighed on me a bit. I knew a life lived in fear is no life

at all. I wanted to fulfil my contract. I didn’t want to race in fear, I wanted to get on that dirt bike and race.” He reflected also on the accident that happened to rival Ken Roczen. “I think it was one more thing. Things happen, he was in the zone and just like it happened to me, it happened to Ken. You don’t want to get hurt, you want to get the job done. Usually when you ride fearsome like that, something will happen. I wanted to have fun and enjoy it like I did when I was a kid. “I love riding and a lot of things I liked about the sport and away from it. I need to take my time and not rush into anything.”

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CMYK Blue: 100C/90M Black: 100k

3/02/2017 8:08

WORLD-CLASS PERFORMANCE Five Gloves’ MXF Prorider S was developed using the experience of MX GP riders Valentin Guillod and Dylan Ferrandis, and features a mesh back and finger contours, finger protection, and comfort gel at thumb contact points to reduce blisters. The palms get protective gel and a strong microfibre outer for strength and feel, plus great throttle grip and control. Distributor: Darbi Accessories Style: Blue/orange Price: $69 Info: motorcyclegearnz.com

PRO MOTO NOGGIN PROTECTION FOR JUNIOR KIWI RIDERS FFM’s new for 2017 Motopro 4 Jnr Racer helmet features a lightweight and compact ABS shell in a true kid size, to eliminate the top-heavy look of many youth helmets. It features chin and brow vents, a removable and washable comfort lining and double D-ring fastening, and meets the ECE22.05 safety standard. Distributor: Forbes & Davies Size style: Red, blue, yellow and green in sizes XXS, XS and S Price: $109 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

SERIOUS PROTECTION FOR SERIOUS PEE WEES This O’Neal Pee Wee chest protector features a flexible and comfortable design to give peewee riders ample coverage. Its perforated foam chassis sculpts to the body and provides great airflow, and easy to use elastic waist straps with hook and loop closure assist fit. Injection-moulded plastic shoulder pads and hard rubber chest and back pads complete the picture. Distributor: Northern Accessories Size style: Small/medium (S/M): to fit approx 4–7 years, large/extra large (L/XL) to fit approx 6–9 years, plain black or black/hi viz Price: $59.95 Info: northern.co.nz

FILCH COOPER’S TYRES TO WIN You may not ride like freakishly talented NZ MX1 Champion Cody Cooper, but you can ride on the same Dunlop Geomax MX3S rubber that helped him take the 2017 title. These championshipwinning tyres excel in soft-to-medium terrain, delivering progressive cornering action, enhanced handling and knob durability, superior bump absorption, and optimised grip and steering feel. Distributor: Forbes & Davies Price: From $64 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

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TUNDRA-TRAVELLING TOOTSIES The perfect boot for everyday riding, the RST Tundra CE WP boot features a waterproof breathable SinAqua membrane, enlarged stretch panelling for additional comfort in the calf and ankle area, an all-weather non slip sole and CE levels of protection. Distributor: Nationwide Accessories Size style: 42/UK8 – 48/UK13 Price: $169 Info: nwa.co.nz

HOLESHOT WITH HOLESHOT Torc1 Racing Holeshot Grips are available in both soft and medium compound. Made from Custom Kraton material for longer wear and tear and superior glove traction, they include wire grooves for additional safety. Available in many different colour options, they come with grip glue included, for fitting. Distributor: 454 Unlimited Price: $19.95 Info: 454.co.nz, dirtbikegear.co.nz

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SUSPENSION BOOST WITH MAXIMA-M CLEAN Maxima Suspension Clean is formulated for the Powersports industry professional. Its unique formula quickly and easily cleans suspension internally and externally leaving a dry, residue-free surface. The professional formula integrates strong industrial cleaners with a powerful spray that displaces moisture, while overspray will not harm o-rings or most seal materials. Distributor: Forbes & Davies Price: $24 Info: forbesanddavies.co.nz

ADVENTURERS GO BALLISTIC The fifth-generation RST Paragon jacket and trou are constructed from Teflon-coated Maxtex and Ballistic with a Sinaqua waterproof and breathable membrane inside, and body armour. Plenty of pockets, waterproof zips, reflective details, adjustable waist and sleeves, exhaust vents, and a removable full-length quilted jacket to keep you really warm are some of its many attributes. Distributor: Nationwide Accessories Size style: Jacket: S/40–5XL/54, trou: S/30–4XL/42, fluoro yellow, black Price: Jacket $489, trou $299 Info: nwa.co.nz

SCORPION TRAIL’S SECOND STING Specially designed for the latest generation adventure touring and enduro street motorcycles, Pirelli’s Scorpion Trail II is designed with an aggressive tread pattern supported by technological innovations to deliver stability even at high speed, traction on dirt, plus handling, comfort and grip in all riding conditions. Distributor: Nationwide Accessories Price: from $247.22 Info: nwa.co.nz

LIGHT, BRIGHT AND SELF-CLEANING Renthal coloured rear sprockets have been precision CNC machined to extremely tight tolerances. A computer-aided ultralight design minimises weight while offering maximum strength, assisted by the use of high-strength aluminium alloy that’s 66 per cent lighter than steel. A wide range of sizes gives plenty of gearing options. Best yet, self cleaning mud grooves help prevent dirt build-up. Distributor: Northern Accessories Size style: Silver, black, red, orange and blue, dependent on bike/brand Price: $99.95 Info: northern.co.nz

CAUGHT IN THE (REDESIGNED) CROSSFIRE Sidi’s Crossfire 3 SRS Boots have been completely redesigned. The new inner gaiter can accommodate a wider range of calf sizes and knee brace systems, there’s a suede heat protection-grip panel and a redesigned Dual Flex ankle to prevent motion beyond anatomical limits, plus the design uses hardware instead of stitching so virtually every part is replaceable. Distributor: Darbi Accessories Price: $899 Info: motorcyclegearnz.com

RADIATOR CONDOMS R US The Twin Air Radiator Sleeve is a nylon coated, glass yarn material that fits over radiator louvres so no dirt, sand, or mud can stick to the radiator, clogging it and causing overheating. The sleeve is easily installed by removing the plastic radiator louvres, sliding it over the louvres and re-installing them on the radiator. Distributor: Northern Accessories Price: $59.95 Info: northern.co.nz

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www.hondamotorbikes.co.nz

BACK ON THE Words: Jonathan Bentman / Photos: Gas Gas

Gas Gas is back – with a new owner and a brand new enduro model. One question, though: is it good enough? JB reports from the European launch.

et’s not beat around the bush, Gas Gas has purposely played centrefield with its new EC/XC300 models. There’s nothing radical to find here, no new innovations – this is tried and tested technology combined with top spec components to make a very efficient, very effective racing motorcycle. And arguably that is a good thing. This is the rebirth of Gas Gas, brought back from the dead, in very short time, by a highly successful young entrepreneur. The future promises exciting developments, but first the phoenix from the flames that is the Gas Gas team are putting down solid foundations, creating a new EC that most certainly will work, will please and hopefully will win –on the track and in the showrooms.

PREMIUM KIT

LIKE THE OLD, BUT NOT...

BOOSTED MOTOR

Having for a long time gone its own way on chassis design, with a perimeter frame, this time around Gas Gas has resorted to the tried and tested central backbone type frame, in traditional chro-moly steel, and in the process making a substantial 20% saving on the weight. Aluminum is used for the sub-frame, though, and here too Gasser has made significant savings, dropping 15% off the previous weight, while also creating a bigger airbox (with a no-tool cover/panel removal). The swingarm is new too, this one being 7% lighter than its predecessor. These weight savings contribute significantly to the now superlight 102kg that’s claimed for the XC300 (the EC300 weighs 105kg). What you’ll notice fairly readily is how the frame and swingarm now resemble that of a well-known Austrian brand, particularly the crossbrace to the top mount of the shock and the swingarm. This is no bad thing, this gentle nuance of familiarity – especially to such a quality brand. And just as KTM needed to return to linkage suspension to crack the US motocross market, so toeing-the-line on frame technology puts Gas Gas right back in the enduro game.

KYB – Kayaba – is one top shelf suspension manufacturer; for years the Japanese brand has helped make Yamaha YZs and WRs great. And fitted to the new EC300 the cartridge type Kayabas (with air and oil separation - AOS) really do help elevate the product – something of a masterstroke, both in terms of performance and caché. The EC motor is also much changed, but retains enough of its architecture and layout as to be recognisable as the old motor warmed over. A new cylinder and cylinder head have released a sizeable boost to the power and torque, right through the rev range. The EC250 now steps up from just over 40 to a full 50hp, while the EC300 has jumped 10hp from 45 to 55hp – those are big gains. We should note – and this is consistent across the industry, save for KTM/Husky now they have TPI – that this performance only comes in derestricted ‘closed course competition’ set-up. To meet the stringent Euro 4 emission regulations the EC will leave the factory with a diminutive Del ‘Orto carburettor, a full-on plumber’s nightmare of emissions paraphernalia plus a strangling exhaust pipe – a bunch of expensive stuff that’s all destined for immediate disposal. Full power comes with the fitting of the ubiquitous Keihin PWK38 carb (you’ll be supplied one on purchase of the machine) and the FMF expansion chamber. The XC model sidesteps all such issues and is full power from the get-go.

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BLING YAMAHA Words: Jock McLauchlan / Photos: Geoff Osborne

Yamaha’s WR450F not got enough grunt or pizazz for you? Northern Accessories’ WR is a showcase for the importer’s products and delivers on both fronts.

orthern Accessories’ latest rolling test bed of all things fast, cool and shiny is a 2017 Yamaha WR450F. Covered with a huge assortment of Zeta, Renthal, Yoshimura and Twin Air products, plus Michelin tyres and a DR Trim seat cover, the WR certainly looks the part, and is a showcase of the products they distribute within New Zealand. The big ticket performance items on this Yamaha are the Yoshimura slip-on muffler and the Twin Air airbox kit, but also the Michelin Starcross 5 tyres and the Twin Air radiator sleeves play their part in going quick. I must say that I am a fan of Zeta products. The levers are small, but widely adjustable for hand size, are virtually unbreakable and beautifully made. I have less experience with their other products like the brake pedal and alloy foot pegs, but they’re certainly made to the same very high standard and felt excellent on our test ride. Likewise Renthal products have always been fantastic – I think I got my first set of Renthal bars over 35 years ago and pretty much the exact same bar comes on the latest Honda CRFs... Is there a better endorsement? But for this old boy I’ve never been a real fan of their Twinwall bar, in this case the Carmichael bend on the WR. I find them a bit too rigid, but all the young, fast guys seem to love them... yes, they are very strong but a little more ‘give’ is kinder on the body and less arm-pump inducing. However, Renthal’s chain, sprockets and hand grips are awesome. Three things were immediately apparent 78

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EVENTS CALENDAR / JUL 2017 * PLEASE CHECK WITH ORGANISERS BEFORE EVENT IN CASE OF CANCELLATIONS, ERRORS OR CHANGES IN DATES *

JULY - 9, Cross Country Sundays,

Round 2, Tar Hill, contact Sean 0275996046, Juniors $50, Seniors $60, Dirt Guide Series

JULY - 21/9 July, Into Outer Mongolia,

four wheel drive option also available, check out www.adventurerides.co.nz

- 25, North Rodney

(north Auckland location) with Northern Gravel Adventure Riders NZ, contact jimdenham@hotmail.com, all rides are guide led, and suitable for road legal Adventure Style motorcycles

JULY - 15, Northern Forests and surrounds tour (Mid northland location),

contact jimdenham@hotmail.com, all rides are guide led, and suitable for road legal Adventure Style motorcycles

- 29, Southern Ride,

Waikato location, contact jimdenham@hotmail.com, all rides are guide led, and suitable for road legal Adventure Style motorcycles

AUGUST - 1/13, Venture into Vietnam,

check out www.adventurerides.co.nz

- 19, Northern Beach run

(mid Northland location), contact jimdenham@hotmail.com, all rides are guide led, and suitable for road legal Adventure Style motorcycles

SEPTEMBER - 1/15, High Andes Bolivia,

check out www.adventurerides.co.nz

- 22/5 Oct, Viva!Cuba!,

check out www.adventurerides.co.nz

2018 FEB/MARCH - Victorian High Country Trails,

Australia with Northern Gravel Adventure Riders NZ, contact jimdenham@hotmail.com, all rides are guide led, and suitable for road legal Adventure Style motorcycles

MID OCTOBER - Central Outback tour,

Australia, contact jimdenham@hotmail. com, all rides are guide led, and suitable for road legal Adventure Style motorcycles

CROSS COUNTRY JUNE - 25, Cross Country Sundays,

Round 2, Tar Hill, contact Sean 0275996046, Juniors $50, Seniors $60, Round 3 at Ohakuri Dirt Guide Series

Call David Horner 021970648 or visit http://motorbiketrainingnorthshore. co.nz/join-the-barrys-point-roadrideout/ or ring 0508776643 or 0276998089

- Auckland Motorcycle Club - Advanced Rider Training

OCTOBER

- 28, Acerbis 4 hour, Crosscountry race, Tahorakuri-Taupo, check out www.epicevents.co.nz

SUPERMOTARD

Visit AMCC website www.amcc.org.nz for entry form. Enquiries: Colleen at cthompson@paraserv.co.nz or amccinc@Ihug.co.nz or ph 09 4891239 or 0274231433

(mixed dirt / tarmac races) also see www.supermotard.co.nz/events

TRAIL RIDES - “The Kawasaki Sandpit”,

Woodhill Forest, Rimmers Rd entrance, SH16, Helensville. The ultimate offroad motorcycle playground. Come & ride, we are open Wednesday to Sunday 9-5pm with a late night on Thursday. Ph: 09 420 8879 or for more information go to www.thesandpit.co.nz

JUNE - 10/11, Suzuki Berm Buster,

Wainui Taupo, check out www.epicevents.co.nz

JULY - 8/9, Suzuki Berm Buster,

Wainui Taupo, check out www.epicevents.co.nz

AUGUST - 12/13, Suzuki Western Blast,

Western Bays Taupo, check out www.epicevents.co.nz

SEPTEMBER - 9/10, Suzuki Berm Buster,

Wainui Taupo, check out www.epicevents.co.nz

- The Sandpit (Woodhill Forest)

Open 9-5 Wed to Sunday, tracks suitable for all levels, family passes available, for more Info phone 09 420 8879 or visit www.thesandpit.co.nz, hire bikes available but bookings essential

CLUB SECRETARIES: If you want your event listed here FREE, as it has always been for our Events pages, please fax the details to KR EVENTS, (09) 411-7815 or email admin@kiwirider.co.nz. Always check with organiser for cancellations.

TRAINING DAYS - RiderSkills Motorcycle Training

Motorcycle training 7 days a week, for new or back to biking, and confidence building, including advanced roadcraft. Phone Phil McDaid on 0800245387 or visit www.riderskills.co.nz

- Barry’s Point Road Monthly Ride Out

Monthly rides on the last Saturday of each month, from Hyosung Motorcycles at 72 Barrys Pt Road, Takapuna. Meet 9.30, to depart 10.00. All abilities welcome. Professionally run by Accelerated Motorcycle training with instructors available on the ride for assistance. Safe, sociable ride lasting 2-3 hours with a coffee stop en route.

BMW MUFFLERS R1150R ’03-04 Cat eliminator pipe $199 F800 S/ST ’06 Alloy/stainless steel incl. connector $595

todd@kiwirider.co.nz

EAWKR002

ADVENTURE RIDES

KIWI RIDER

& Restoration WIRE WHEELS Repair We SpecialiSe in ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

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ECONOHONDA

LTD

Honda Motorcycle Spares Our Speciality – NZ’s largest selection of new and used parts MALCOLM KIRKBY

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Econohonda

Fax 07 884 8890 parts@econohonda.com www.econohonda.co.nz

BIKE BIKETIRES TYRES

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257 Great South Road, Drury 257 Great South Rd, 070 Drury 09 294 7955 or 021 4571 09 294 7955 or 021 225 2142 drurymotorcycle@gmail.com

31/05/17 11:40 AM

DPC

Ease of location location Ease of

Just throw from motorway Just aa stone’s stones throw from thethe motorway

Expert advice Expert Advice

Des has over 17 years experience in Mike and Trev know their bikes and both ride the motorcycle tyre industry

Easy to Easy todeal dealwith with Ride in and ride out Ride in and ride out WE SpEcialiSE in

DPC

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now instore phone bookings essential

FREE NAXA HELMET WITH nEWZENITH OWnERS EVERY JACKET Over 753 tires for all AT makes PURCHASED $280& models offerbike vaild while last of instocks stock

KIWI RIDER

To advertise here call Todd on 021 709 989

Custom sports trikes Created individually

by MS Coombes Limited Based on the Suzuki Boulevard M109R We can trike any bike Kitsets available to any stage DVD available 344 St Asaph St Christchurch. Ph: 03 3667463 Fax: 03 3667462 Email: mscoombesltd@clear.net.nz Web: www.mscoombes.co.nz Web: www.customsportstrike.co.nz

Taking the bike on an overseas tour, or buying or selling overseas? Want someone who knows bikes and knows how they should be handled?

You buy it. We’ll deliver it!

Copart ✦ EBay ✦ Trademe ✦ USA ✦ NZ www.BIDRIDER.com ✦ info@bidrider.com 027 2437433 – 027 BIDRIDER

Then call us-we have years of experience and good reviews from riders touring USA, Australia, Canada, Europe & UK. We can arrange freighting, all customs facilities, holding of crates and shipment of bikes and goods purchased on tour back to New Zealand. We have offices & customs teams throughout USA, Australia, Europe and agencies in Canada and UK. Two years ago we had a family tragedy and had to get back to New Zealand immediately. We were in the back blocks of Colorado. One phone call to Mainfreight in LA and they just sorted everything out. They picked our bikes up from Colorado, sorted out all of the details and shipped the bikes home to us... Bridget Jakicevich Another successful trip to the States for my group and a large part played by yourself and Mainfreight. Looking back has been 8 years now, you have been involved... With out your help I know that it could otherwise be very stressful with much unnecessary time dealing with the minutia to the various agencies involved both in New Zealand and The US.... Ken Contact Jeff Larsen on jeff.larsen@mainfreight.com 04 816 5255 or 0274 493008

todd@kiwirider.co.nz

KIWI RIDER

- NZ RACE RESULTS MotoGP 2017

Round 5

Round 4

Round 3

Round 2

Round 1

Total

France

Spain

America

Argentina

Qatar

Maverick Vinales Yamaha

SPA

Dani Pedrosa

Honda

SPA

Valentino Rossi

Yamaha

ITA

Marc Marquez

Honda

SPA

Johann Zarco

Yamaha

FRA

Andrea Dovizioso Ducati

ITA

Cal Crutchlow

Honda

GBR

Jorge Lorenzo

Ducati

SPA

Jonas Folger

Yamaha

GER

Honda

AUS

10 Jack Miller

Next Rounds: Italy June 4, Barcelona June 11, Assen June 25

WSBK 2017

Total

Donington

so far Race 2

Italy

Assen

Rd 4

Aragon Rd 3

Total after Motul Thai

Rd 2

Race 1

Race 2

Race 1 Race 2 Race 1 Race 2

Race 1 2 races

Race 2

Race 1

Total

Jonny Rea

Kawasaki

GBR 260

100

Tom Sykes

Kawasaki

GBR 205

Chas Davies

Ducati

GBR 185

Marco Melandri

Ducati

ITA

137

Alex Lowes

Yamaha

GBR 121

Mark Van der Mark Yamaha

NED 102

Xavi Fores

Ducati

ESP

Leon Camier

MV Agusta

GBR 84

Jordi Torres

BMW

ESP

10 Eugene Laverty

Aprilia

IRL

Next rounds: Riviera de Rimini June 16, USA July 7, Germany August 18

MXGP 2017 MX1

France

Germany

Latvia

Europe

Italy

Mexico

Bike

Country Total Race 2

Race 1

Race 2

Race 1

Race 2

Race 1

Race 2

Race 1

Race 2

Race 1

Race 2

Race 1

Antonio Cairoli

KTM

ITA

347

Gautier Paulin

Husaberg

FRA

297

Clement Desalle

Kawasaki

BEL

289

Tim Gajser

Honda

SLO

261

Jeremy Van Horebeek

Yamaha

BEL

261

J Herlings

KTM

NED

253

Evgeny Bobryshev

Honda

RUS

214

Romain Febvre

Yamaha

FRA

209

M Nagl

Husaberg

GER

200

NED

KTM

176

10 Glenn Coldenhoff

Next rounds: Germany Next races: Russia June 11, Lombardia June 25, Portugal July 2 88

KIWI RIDER

To advertise here call Todd on 021 709 989

SERVICES Get your company noticed here from a trifling $90 PH: 021 709 989

WHEEL & SPOKE SERVICES ☛ Spokes for most bikes ☛ Custom-made to suit ☛ Stainless or galvinised ☛ Rims – Alloy ☛ Chrome or stainless ☛ Drilled to suit ☛ All wheel repairs Ph Tom Morriss 021 313 136 • 09 576 0312 wheelman1@vodafone.co.nz www.wheelandspoke.co.nz

Cash Paid

SCOOTER HIRE- 4 HOURS $60 MSW_JUN17.indd 1

fully auto 250cc scooter

Bike Jackets Bike Pants Bike Boots

27/04/17 10:21 AM

OK for restricted or full test

257 Onehunga Mall Rd, Onehunga, Auckland, NZ

www.scootling.co.nz/hire Ph (09)360 0717

P: 09 636 5296 M: 021 0256 7945

310 Great North Rd, Grey Lynn

E: armyleathershop@xtra.co.nz

Buy SCOOTLING_AUG15_45X45.indd 1

2/07/15 13:59

Sell

Trade

ARMYandLEATHER_APR16.indd 1

31/03/16 10:37 AM

Get your company noticed here from a trifling $52 PH: 021 709 989

Custom Chambers motorcycle exhausts Is this the best value improvement you can make? Catalytic converter substitution from $290 - More Power - Better Fuel economy - Better Sound - Less Weight

KTM 390-$290 KTM 1290-$290 Triumph Thunderbird-$350

Agents for Micron Scorpion 30A Kerwyn Ave, East Tamaki. Ph 09 2741155

www.customchambers.co.nz

todd@kiwirider.co.nz

KIWI RIDER

VICTORIAN

MOTORCYCLE WRECKERS

52-54 Mologa Road, Heidelberg West, 3081, Australia Ph +61 3 9457 1733 Fax + 61 3 9457 1866 Email vicwreck@vicwreck.com.au ONLY WRECKING LATE MODEL JAPANESE ROAD BIKES INCLUDING THE GREY IMPORTS AND PARALLEL LINES

HONDA CB125E 2014, WRECKING ONLY

HONDA CB900F HORNET 2006 WRECKING ONLY

HONDA CBF250 2007, WRECKING ONLY

HONDA CBR1000RR 2005 WRECKING ONLY

HONDA CBR1000RR 2007, WRECKING ONLY

KAWASAKI EX300A 2015, WRECKING ONLY

YAMAHA R-15 2015, WRECKING ONLY

YAMAHA R6 2008, WRECKING ONLY

APRILA RS125 2004, WRECKING ONLY

HONDA VT400C 2011, WRECKING ONLY

KAWASAKI ZRX1200 2004, WRECKING ONLY

KAWASAKI ZX10-R 2015, WRECKING ONLY

KIWI RIDER

To advertise here call Todd on 021 709 989

SuSpenSion Servicing from $180 for forks / $130 Shocks

Get the most out of your bike and your riding. Drop your bike in on the way back from Woodhill. We are next to the Firestone shop main road Kumeu.

43c Main Road, Kumeu, Auckland 0810 09 412 9430 watson.racing@hotmail.com

at your service • Full range of Honda road bikes & dirt bikes. • Qualified Service Technicians. • Get in now to see the new Fireblade, 250 Rally and CMX Rebel.

At Botany Honda we go the extra mile when it comes to servicing your motorcycle. We cover all of Auckland and offer NORTH SHORE Honda customers FREE motorcycle pick up for service and repair by our qualified technicians. Botany Honda 9 Trugood Drive, East Tamaki, Auckland (09) 265 1830 - www.botanyhonda.co.nz

Botany Honda Bikerider Ad_30 May.indd 1

30/05/17 5:55 PM

todd@kiwirider.co.nz

KIWI RIDER

NEW ZEALAND’S BIGGEST SELLING MOTORCYCLE TYRE

In assocIatIon wIth tnt EvEnts

Distributed by Nationwide Accessories (W/Sale) Ltd, Hamilton

NORTH ISLAND STOCKISTS AUCKLAND:

Botany Honda Motorcycles Coleman’s Suzuki Cycletreads Holeshot Motorcycles Motohaus Powerhead Motorcycles Red Baron Motorcycles Restorace Ltd Spectrum Motorcycles Watson Racing

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Blackwood Yamaha The Honda Shop

07 827 7066 07 823 5522

Sargent Motorcycles Ltd

06 379 7887

Dargaville Honda

09 439 1089

Drury Performance

09 294 7955

Bikeworx Ericksen Honda

06 843 2665 06 836 6298

JMS Motorcycles Ltd New Plymouth M/C Centre Performance Factory

06 754 6297 06 758 4449 06 756 6117

Whyteline

07 862 8783

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06 357 8043 06 357 7027 06 356 2195

Twin Cam Motorcycles

04 298 3556

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07 877 8054

Mr Motorcycles

09 238 3176

06 323 6256

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Gary Worsley Motorcycles

07 345 5654 07 348 4100

Harris Tyre Services Ltd

06 867 0728

City Honda Horowhenua

06 362 7233

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07 838 1209 07 849 1919 07 838 9299 07 958 1400

Bike Torque

07 895 7994

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07 378 5508 07 378 2453

Bay Motorcycles Hastings Honda

06 878 3289 06 878 4152

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07 828 9687

CAMBRIDGE: CARTERTON:

2017 AUSTRALIAN MOTO GP TOUR

18-23 OcTObeR PHILLIP ISLAND MOTO2 / MOTO3 / ASBK / Aus 600 Supersport / MotoGP Expo

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09 408 1950

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021 072 0753 09 407 7736

KERI KERI:

LOWER HUTT:

Motomart

04 589 5106

Biker Bargains Moto One

09 272 7137 09 263 9335

Maungaturoto Motorcycles Ltd

09 431 8555

Fagan Suzuki

06 378 6159

Honda Matamata Phil’s Motorcycle Centre

07 888 4969 07 888 7604

Peter Glidden Honda Morrinsville NV Motorcycles Ltd Phil’s Motorcycle Centre

07 889 6550 07 889 1007 07 889 7686

Moto City Action Sports Direct

07 927 1340 07 928 8045

MANUKAU: MAUNGATUROTO: MASTERTON: MATAMATA:

MORRINSVILLE:

MOUNT MAUNGANUI:

Lorenzo • Rossi • Marquez • Vinales • Espargaro Ducati • Yamaha • Honda • Suzuki • KTM $2495 Tour price includes: • Return airfares from Christchurch, Wellington or Auckland • Transfer Melbourne to Phillip Island • Accommodation on the island • Daily transfers to race track • Insurance and security taxes • Four nights meals and entertainment Kiwi Rider style LIMITED SPACES, APPLY EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT For more information or to request a booking form call 021 709 989 or email motogptour@kiwirider.co.nz

NAPIER:

NEW PLYMOUTH:

PAEROA:

PALMERSTON NORTH:

PARAPARAUMU: PIO PIO:

PUKEKOHE: ROTORUA:

SHANNON:

TAUMARUNUI: TAUPO:

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TE AROHA:

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07 884 8044

Fieten Motor Services The Honda Shop Wilks Penny Motorcycles Ltd

07 872 2560 07 871 7317 07 871 3069

Thames M/C Parts & Accessories

07 868 9363

Joe Lett Limited

06 345 8599

Warkworth Motorcycles

09 425 8535

Harley Speed & Custom Motorad Richard’s Motorcycle Services Scooterazzi Ltd TSS Red Baron Motorcycles Wellington Motorcycle Centre

04 239 9272 04 382 8011 04 477 2322 04 978 7389 04 569 3989 04 384 4149

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07 307 1050 07 308 7656

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09 438 1183 09 438 0804

TE AWAMUTU:

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SOUTH ISLAND STOCKISTS ALEXANDRA:

Two Wheels Unlimited

03 448 6207

Honda Country Jeff Marshall Motorcycles

03 308 2030 03 308 2055

Ewan Allan Honda Powerzone Motorcycles Ltd

03 418 0626 03 418 4672

ASHBURTON: BALCLUTHA: BLENHEIM:

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03 579 2500

Avon City Suzuki Budget Motorcycle Spares Casbolt Honda Dirt Xtreme Ltd Duane’s Bikes & Skis Pitlane Motorcycles First European Tracktion Trevor Pierce Motorcycles Ltd

03 341 3490 03 377 1881 03 366 4401 03 385 0007 03 344 6069 03 318 7924 03 366 2201 03 374 3502 03 366 6563

McIver & Veitch Ltd Motoxtreme Services Ltd

03 477 0236 03 456 3633

Hughes Motor Services Ltd

03 768 6288

Ewan Allan Honda Hokonui Motorcycles

03 208 0174 03 208 5271

CHRISTCHURCH:

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INVERCARGILL:

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03 214 4838 03 214 4467

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Young Motors Ltd

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Bob McCleary Yamaha

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03 204 8455

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03 236 7993

Canterbury Honda

03 312 7927

RANGIORA: TAPANUI: TIMARU:

WINTON:

WOODEND:

Pirelli test over 1,700 Motorcycle Models every year to ensure the correct tyre fitment is recommended for all motorcycles. Talk to an authorised Pirelli Stockist next time your bike is in need of tyres.

Ride Safe, Ride www.pirelli-moto.com I www.nwa.co.nz

Classics

Words: Rhys Jones / Photos: Supplied

THE ENDURING VERTICAL/PARALLEL TWIN

t is difficult to imagine a history of motorcycling without the vertical, or parallel, twin. We have already looked at the retro twins of recent years, the Kawasaki W650 and the new Bonneville, and Royal Enfield, but since Edward Turner launched the Triumph Speed Twin in 1937 there have been many versions of the ubiquitous parallel twin motor. It is difficult to name a major manufacturer that hasn’t produced a parallel twin, although HarleyDavidson could be the exception. Even devotees of the V-twin motor, such as Ducati, made a parallel twin. Apart from the iconic British models from Triumph, Norton, Royal Enfield, BSA and Matchless, the major Japanese factories, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Honda, and Yamaha have all produced parallel twins. When Honda launched the game-changing CB750 in 1969, there ensued a scramble for cylinders. Three, four, and even six cylinder engines began to appear. Although fours were the clear winners, at the 1979 Earls Court Motorcycle show in London, all four major Japanese factories displayed parallel twins in their line-up, together with Triumph’s 750 Bonneville and Ducati’s 500 Desmo Sport. Which leads to the question, what is so

attractive about parallel twins? From an owner’s point of view, they were probably easier to maintain than a multi-cylinder bike. From a manufacturer’s point of view, probably cheaper to produce. I will leave the two-stroke twins for another time. Anyone on a budget looking for a classic parallel twin may do well to avoid the obvious icons and look at some of the lesser known bikes. Yamaha’s XS400, 500, and 650 could be a good start. The models at the 1979 Motorcycle show all had twin Mikuni carburettors, five gears for the 500 and 650, and six for the 400. The 500 and 400 had single disc brakes front and rear, and the 650 two discs at the front and a drum at the rear. The 500 had an eight-valve head and double overhead cams. As for performance, they all topped 160km/h. Bear in mind how many changes were made to these specifications over the years, and remember that these specs are from

Vintage advertisement for Yamaha XS500

the Earls Court show of 1979. I have chosen the XS Yamaha range, but from the same model year it is worth looking at the Kawasaki Z750, Suzuki

Triumph Speed Twin 1938. Beginning of the trend

GS425, all with similar specs and performance. One of the attractive aspects of finding an XS500 or similar, is that customising it is not considered sacrilege, as it would be to customise some of the iconic models. An example is that of an American enthusiast, Ted Cichocki, who bought a crippled XS500 for $US200. He worked on the bike only on weekends for two years and produced a stunning custom café racer, which in the end cost him $US3000. I must say it is one of the most impressive café racers I have ever seen (take a

Sharing your passion facebo

ok.com

/Caffein

KIWI RIDER

eAndCla

ssics

“MORE THAN JUST BRAKES”

FLOATING DISC CONVERSION KIT • FLOATING FRONT BRAKE ROTORS • MOTORCROSS ROTORS • BRAKE DISCS • FLOATING DISC CONVERSION KITS BRAKE PADS (RACE/ROAD/SCOOTER/MX/ATV) • BRAKE SHOES • CLUTCH KITS • CLUTCH SPRING KITS • HIGH PERFORMANCE BRAKE FLUID

39 Years as world market leaders make EBC the perfect choice in replacement brakes for your Motorcycle or ATV whether you are crusing, riding at trackdays, racing or Off-Road. Choose from organic, semi-sintered or full sintered brake pads and choose your ideal brake discs or rotors to match from our massive range. Hamish Harwood Daniel Mettam 2017 NZ Superbike #4

2017 NZ Motocross MX2 Champion

TSUBAKIMOTO CHAIN CO. JAPAN is the world’s largest chain

TOPLITE BY YUASA manufactures and offers a complete line of powersports

manufacturer. Tsubaki offer outstanding motorcycle chains,

batteries, both conventional (flooded electrolyte) and high performance ‘YTX’

specifically developed to meet the needs of motorcycle riders,

and ‘YTZ’ batteries. Toplite by Yuasa is the ultimate choice for powersports.

ranging from Moped to Superbike, including Motocross and

HIGH PERFORMANCE AGM • AGM (ABSORBED GLASS MAT) • YUMICRON • CONVENTIONAL

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OMEGA ORS (O-RING STEEL) 70HP - 100HP Affordable quality sealed O-Ring chain.

ALPHA XRG (X-RING GOLD) 120HP - 140HP Smooth running, minimal power loss & sealed lubrication for life.

BS BATTERIES Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) Factory Activated range have all the features of maintenance free batteries with the increased power of a radial grid design and additional plates. Factory Activated means BS batteries are supplied ready to install, eliminating the need to add acid, making it quick and easy for you! WET CHARGED FACTORY ACTIVATED AND READY TO GO • UP TO 3X LONGER LIFE THAN CONVENTIONAL BATTERIES • EASY INSTALLATION • PLATE SULFATION MINIMIZED AGM CONSTRUCTION • VLRA BATTERY • INCREASED POWER AND EXTENDED LIFE

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12 MONTH WARRANTY

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Click and Collect or get Home Delivery! OR Shop online at www.nwa.co.nz

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AVAILABLE AT WWW.NWA.CO.NZ