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E D I T O R S P E A K
Pull my finger out
YOU MIGHT REMEMBER
ME telling you I blew the engine up in the FZR1000 race bike back in late 2019? Well, it has taken a lot of money to gather all the parts in preparation to start rebuilding it. All of them have been sitting, ready and waiting, for a couple of months now so I finally pulled my finger out and asked maestro Shaun at D Moto where he wanted me to start with building it. He said to start with the head as that would take the most time. With Shaunís close eye and a lot of assistance I started with washing all the parts for the head, then started lapping valves. We did have to replace three valves that kissed a piston but apart from that everything was smooth sailing. Weíd also got the head skimmed to ensure it was dead flat – being smacked with a piston at 11,000rpm would be like getting punched in the face by Mike Tyson, resulting in your face being caved into your head.
I used KC Engine Balancing and Head Servicing at Castle Hill NSW for the head skim. Jack mentioned the head was pretty good but was well worth giving it a fine, “four to six thouî skim. If youíre wondering how much this is, itís about the thickness of a hair on your head.
Once Iíd got the valves ready, it was back to the parts washer for another wash. Clean, clean, clean is how Shaun likes his engines built. Once I fitted up the valve springs on the exhaust side it was on with the cam rack, torqued down and then the inlet valve springs fitted.
Then comes the ëfuní of setting valve clearances, which takes quite some time. And, if youíre wondering how many hours went into building just the head – around eleven for me; probably half that for Shaun if he had been doing it. This obviously excludes any porting, cutting valves
S
and other secret moves Shaun had already put into the head, so next time you want a performance head on your bike and get a bill for a few thousand and more, you know where the money went – time and skill. Oh, and new valves if you need them, or want bigger ones, and the same with the cams.
Next up it was time to fit the ‘new’ lightened and balanced crank into the engine case with the Crower (mega expensive) rods and as I write this, it is as far as Iíve got. We had a heap of bearing shells and my task was to measure each of them to find the set we wanted. Shaun said once weíve set the big end bearing shells the rest of the engine is a piece of cake and wonít take long to put together. I like his thinking, but when heís got me building it, Iím taking my time as I donít want to stuff anything up! LOL! Plus, if I do stuff any of it up, Shaun will crack me over the back of the head with a Breaker Bar or something. Hahahaha!
Building the FZR engine has meant the Z900 resto has taken a backseat this month – I can only do so much in between putting AMM together and the little spare time I have, however it wonít be long and Iíll get the Z900 down to the boys at D Moto to sort the new wiring out and get this beauty running. If you want high quality work done to your pride and joy – from basic servicing on all bikes to full house race prep, I strongly urge you to go see the boys at D Moto Motorcycle Engineering.
Enjoy!
Cheers, Stuart.
Now with dynamic new styling, the new Ninja 1000SX marks the 4th genera琀椀on of a successful sport touring pla琀昀orm that enables experienced riders to enjoy sporty riding and touring capability from a relaxed posi琀椀on. Enjoy the same great performance now with cleaner emissions.
• KAWASAKI QUICK SHIFTER
• INCREASED SEAT COMFORT
• ELECTRONIC CRUISE CONTROL
• DIGITAL TFT COLOUR INSTRUMENTATION
• SMART PHONE CONNECTIVITY
• INTEGRATED RIDING MODES
N E W S
VALE CHIVO
Sad news came in late August with the passing of Doug ëChivoí Chivas. Chivoís was the place to be for everything motorcycle tyre related, including wheel lacing (he only recently laced the wheels on Stuartís Z900 resto), repairs and if
BRANCHING OUT
CFMOTO will start 2021 with an even-bigger bang with the arrival of the first of three full-power 700CL-X modern-classic models. Unveiled at the 2019 EICMA motorcycle show in Milan and launched recently in CFMOTOís Chinese domestic market, the 700CLX will be available in Australia in Adventure, Heritage and Sport guises, kicking off with the 700CL-X Heritage naked bike from February followed by the 700CL-X Adventure and 700CL-X Sport soon after.
The 700CL-X Heritage will also launch a wide range of accessories, including classic-style panniers, a diamond-stitched seat, protection and bar-end mirrors, to encourage customisation along with a rider apparel and lifestyle collection.
you raced a sidecar, watched or read about them, Chivo was the name that always popped up on the podium. In fact, he won an Australian Historic title just last year, while already quite sick. Our condolences to family and friends.
CFMOTO Australia director Michael Poynton says the 700CL-X is a watershed model for the brand as its first full-power bike to take on Australiaís middleweight naked segment.
“The 700CL-X is extremely important to us. It will be the company’s first nonLAMS model, and it’s just the tip of the iceberg of what we can expect from CFMOTO as a result of its relationship with KTM,î Poynton says.
ìUnderscoring that relationship is a significant joint venture built on bricks and mortar.This comprises an all-new office and R&D building, in Hangzhou, China, which officially opened this month, as well as a new manufacturing facility nearby, which will be operational later this year.” Pricing for the 700CL-X range will be announced later.
GARAGE SALE
It is profoundly sad for Compass Expeditions to announce that COVID-19 travel restrictions have caused them to shut down operations.This is however a great opportunity for you to pick up a bargain during their online ìGarage Saleî clearance of stock and equipment they have located at their depot in Melbourne,Australia.
They are clearing out the depot, selling off a huge list of Compass Expeditions Merchandise, expedition equipment, motorcycle parts and tyres, tech and communications gear, workshop equipment and a lot more. This is a liquidation sale so everything has been priced to clear so get in quick before the bargains disappear.
Many items will be able to be shipped to your door however please be aware that a number of larger and heavier pieces of equipment will be marked for collection from the depot only.
Talk to Compass Expeditions if you would like a quote for shipping on these items. Jump onto compassexpeditions.com/shop/ to grab the bargains.
MOVING UP
After almost 3 years on busy Parramatta Road, Motorrad Garage is moving to a far more suitable premises at Eastern Creek, where there is plenty of parking right by the door. The new Eastern Creek showroom opened on Tuesday, 1st September. Get there and check out the new place to be at Eastern Creek: Motorrad Garage
Unit 1, Race Central
32-34 Peter Brock Drive Eastern Creek NSW 2766 motorradgarage.com.au
N E W S
RIDE TO WORK WEEK
The motorcycle industryís annual week of twowheeled commuting, RideYour Motorcycle toWorkWeek, will take a different approach in 2020. Running from September 21 to 27, the 2020 edition of RideYour MotorcycleToWorkWeek will see ëToWorkí temporarily crossed out of the event logo.
SOMETHING TO WATCH
Instead, the initiative will encourage two-wheeled enthusiasts to ëRide This Thing Outí, dust-off their bikes and scooters for good mental health and socially distanced recreation.
Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries Motorcycle Manager Rhys Griffiths said the week was an opportunity to have some fun, whether commuting or riding for recreation.
ìThereís no doubt 2020 has been challenging, but together we can ride this thing out,î said Rhys.ìThe pandemic has hit everyone hard and the mental health benefits of riding are well documented. Riding makes you happy and right now, Australians need a break.The biggest smiles are always hidden behind a helmet.î
The event also aims to draw attention to two-wheeled transport as a potential solution in COVID-19 recovery.ìRiding has a real role to play in helping Australia get back to work, offering socially distanced transportation and alleviating congestion and parking issues.î
ìOur aim this year is primarily about reminding Aussies how much fun they can have on a bike, but our secondary goal is to capture the attention of policy makers who too often overlook riding in developing transportation infrastructure.î
The RideYour Motorcycle to Work Week team is monitoring the evolving COVID-19 situation inVictoria and other states closely and will provide any updates via the event
Facebook: ridetoworkweek
All riders should adhere to any and all Government regulations at all times.The industry initiative offers a DIY guide to ensuring your motorcycle is ready for the road at ridetoworkweek.com.au/news/ pre-ride-check
Jake Ashe is one of the makers of Wide of the Mark, a new featurelength motorcycle film that’s set in the wilds of Tasmania. Due for release early next year, Motul supported the film, providing oils and lubricants for the bikes. Wide of the Mark is a film idea that sent
six riders around Tasmania with road bikes they’d custom-built into off-road bikes. It was two weeks traversing the rugged landscapes of Tasmania and essentially living off the backs of the bike, is what Jake had to say. Keep an eye on wideofthemark.com.au for more.
READY TO SAVE THE DAY!
Rider Support Australia is a 24/7 Motorcycle Roadside Assistance program that offers help and support for motorcyclists when they need it the most. Rider Support Australia offers a range of market-leading roadside assistance inclusions across two simple to understand packages, that include core components such as jump starts, flat tyre assistance and towing as well as emergency accommodation and car rental, ambulance cover, onward travel assistance and transport for
your bike should you be unable to ride home due to illness or injury just to name a few.Add to all this their ever-growing range of moto-centric exclusive member benefits, through partnerships with leading outlets, suppliers and brands around Australia to provide members with discounts on motorcycle products, accessories, and events that more than outweigh the cost of membership! Join now by calling 1300 919 829 or jump onto RiderSupportAustralia.com.au
BE A PRO
The Ducati Scrambler 1100 PRO and Sport PRO will be available in Australia and New Zealand in September 2020. Featuring revamped graphics, new exhaust and seat trim, shorter rear fender and low plate holder characterise the new versions of the Ducati Scrambler 1100 PRO. The Scrambler 1100 Sport PRO is enriched with an even more sporting heritage thanks to the new, narrower and shorter handlebar with CafÈ Racer-style mirrors and ÷hlins suspension. Check them out at your local dealer.
N E W S
QUICKER THAN QUICK
The MY20 iteration of Suzuki’s GSX-R1000, a machine designed to excel in the three core fundamentals of motorcycle performance - acceleration, cornering, and braking is now available from Australian dealerships. For MY20, the bi-directional quickshift system, previously only available as an accessory, is now standard 昀椀tment on the GSX-R1000. The advanced system allows the rider to smoothly upshift and downshift without the need to use the clutch or throttle. The shift linkage can also be easily set for ‘reversepattern’ for GP-style shifting on the racetrack. Another new addition
is adopting Bridgestone’s latest Battlax Racing Street RS11 tyres, featuring improved wear resistance and high cornering performance. See your local Suzuki dealer for this awesome new Team Suzuki ECSTAR MotoGP inspired Metallic Triton Blue colour scheme at the manufacturer’s recommended price of $23,990 Ride Away with 12 months registration and backed by Suzuki’s 24-month unlimited kilometre warranty.
DISTINGUISHED TYRES
Bridgestone andThe Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride (DGR) have partnered together to call on motorcyclists all over the world to embrace the dapper event’s 昀椀rst-ever solo edition, which will take place on Sunday 27 September 2020.
The global event uniquely brings together the motorcycle community and their passion for classic style bikes to support and raise funds for Movember, the men’s health charity. In 2019, the event brought together 116,000 motorcyclists across 100 countries over a shared love of classic styled bikes and helping others.
The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride Founder, Mark Hawwa, speaks on the new partnership, and the urgency for its community to continue to ride.
“Since our 昀椀rst year in 2012,The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride has united riders all over the world, creating a spectacle and a statement from the motorcycle community in support of men’s health.Welcoming Bridgestone EMIA to the DGR community in 2020 as our of昀椀cial European Tyre Partner has been a special moment for the event. Safety for classic motorcycles has always been a priority, and Bridgestone’s
passion for designing the perfect tyre for classic bikes helps to keep our riders safe.With Bridgestone’s support in Europe 2020, we will still ride dapper together, and do everything we can to help men stop dying too young alongside our partners Movember.”
Bridgestone EMIA will be generously encouraging DGR’s dapper riders with tyre packs for the event’s dedicated fundraisers. Bridgestone EMIA Head of Motorcycle, Nico Thuy, comments on the importance of partnering with The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride in Europe.
“As a company with a long-time history in the motorcycle business and its heritage, we at Bridgestone are incredibly proud to be able to partner with the DGR in Europe, as we value their work of great importance towards men’s health. It’s only through dedication and passion that an organization such as DGR can succeed and that’s why we (at Bridgestone) have found a
DJANGO GOES MAD
Peugeot’s neoretro Django now comes in a new range of colours. Choose between the Django 50cc for $3990 ride away, or upgrade to the Django 150cc - with more power, ABS and fuel injection - for $5290 ride away! Ride with con昀椀dence, as each Peugeot Django comes with a 2-year unlimited km warranty. See your local dealer or peugeotmotorcycles. com.au/range/django/
mutual passion for the heritage motorcycle movement. Our newest reference bias touring tyre – the Battlax BT46 – is the perfect showcase for that and thus a perfect match for those who share our passion for old motorcycles.Therefore, it’s a great honour for us to become an of昀椀cial supporter of The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride 2020.”
With respect to the varying global social distancing measures in place, The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride 2020 event is encouraging its participants to ride solo or with a pillion on Sunday 27 Sept 2020. Riders will be encouraged to engage socially on all social media channels and the DGR website to showcase their efforts. Without organised mass-participation events, no matter where you are in the world you can dress in-theme, mount your steed, and ride for men’s health! For more information on how you can Ride Solo, jump onto gentlemansride.com/ridesolo D
PHOTOS HALF LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHIC
ITíS BEEN A COUPLE of years since our last foray on the ëAdventure Sportí dubbed, BMW S 1000 XR. For 2020 it has undergone what seems like a heap of improvements to transform the XR from a bike that felt a little like an S 1000 RR banged up with an upright handlebar, to a bike that now feels far better integrated and more suitable for the target market ñ touring with the ability for plenty of sport if the occasion arises. The motor, chassis, and suspension have all been completely redesigned. The new XR is lighter, more powerful, more compact, and better handlinga dramatic improvement.
The bike we tested is the exclusive Carbon Sport version which comes in a beautiful Racing Red (or Ice Grey) dripping with carbon fibre. Pricing ex on roads is $29,290 (plus $530 for Racing Red paint) and the quality fits the price I reckon. All of the features on the Carbon Sport are standard, whereas they can
be accessories on other versions.
Overall weight is down by two kilos to 226kg wet. Thatís a nice weight saving, taking into consideration the 2020 BMW S 1000 XR range is now Euro-5 compliant. The XRís engine alone is six percent lighter and around 10mm slimmer, while the drivetrain sheds seven percent of its weight.
The in-line four-cylinder engineís peak power has not increased, but the 2020 XR is no slouch - it puts out 121kW at its peak of 11,000rpm, on the way to a 12,000rpm redline. I was impressed by the grunty midrange as it punches out a very healthy 114Nm at 9250rpm. The re-worked S 1000 RR superbike engine feels far more civilised from the previous model with a softer low percentage throttle ñ it also makes the bike quieter at low speeds, but get it off the lower parts and it feels sublime. At the lower throttle inputs the fly-by-wire control lacks a little bit of feel in my mind, so this takes a couple of rides
for the mind to readjust.
The top three gears have longer ratios for reduced fuel consumption and sound output. Gear by gear, BMW raised the ratios - two percent for 4th gear, four percent for 5th, and eight percent for 6th gear. Regardless, there was no lack of performance in the higher gears compared to the previous model that I could detect.
The engine feels relaxed at high speed, and there is minimal buzziness from it ñ especially through the handlebar, which was a previous complaint. Perhaps this is because the motorís rotating masses have been centralised for less inertia, but either way, the engine was not only powerful, it was pleasant on long rides with that handlebar vibration gone.
The gearbox, with up/down quickshifting, is butter-smooth. The transmission clicked into the next ratio so effortlessly on the upshift, sometimes I wondered if it had actually happened.
Photo by Barnabas Imre
The clutch now has a slipper design for reducing back-torque on rapid deceleration. I’m a little surprised the XR did not already feature a slipper clutch, but it does have one now. There is no assist function, however – not a real problem as the clutch actuation is light anyway.
There are four riding modes on the 2020 S 1000 XR - Dynamic, Road, Rain, plus Dynamic Pro. The three standard power modes affect engine power and throttle response; engine brake level, traction control intervention, wheelie control, and ABS level of intervention. Dynamic Pro allows individual adjustability within those various functions. Dynamic Pro requires a coding plug (plugged in) to activate, as it puts safety-related software settings in the hands of the rider.
The 2020 BMW S 1000 XR’s chassis is nine percent lighter, just over two kilos, and is much narrower at the waist. Despite the XR’s adventure-level
height, the narrower waist makes it easier to reach the ground. The XR does have some height to it in standard trim, namely 840mm, but our test bike had the optional low seat taking it down to 790mm. I didn’t mind the low seat as there was still enough room for my long pins to be comfortable, but if you’re tall like me you’ll love the standard seat height. The shape of the seat is sculpted which does restrict a bit of movement when you want to get off in a corner, but for the majority of owners the seat will be bang on the money. Pillion comfort is reported as, “One of the best I’ve ever been on”, says my better half, with little to no wind buffeting, great seat to peg position, room and comfort and the exhaust note can hardly be heard. Ergonomically, the new XR is slightly more aggressive. The rider is around 20mm forward, the handlebar is narrower around 20mm and about 10mm lower. This gives more front-end feedback,
and improved weight distribution –the previous version did feel quite light in the front end. Overall, the XR is very comfortable, and the riding position feels intuitive and natural, you are still in an upright position with hardly any weight on the wrists.
BMW’s D-ESA Pro electronically adjustable suspension has two damping modes - Dynamic and Road. Dynamic (the equivalent of Sport or Track on other machines) and is clearly designed for the smooth surface of nice bitumen. I found it good on most roads but switching over to Road the XR becomes one of the sweetest handling, most capable road bikes you’ll ride on our ‘varied’ bitumen. Suspension spring-preload is either set to Auto or Min (the softest setting). Gone are the ‘helmet+passenger’ (and so on) selection icons. Preload requirements are automatically sensed, and adjusted accordingly. While the spring-preload setting can only be changed when stopped;
switching between Dynamic and Road damping is possible on the 昀氀y.
The XR’s new control-valve technology is based on a shim package from racing. It allows soft, comfortable, compression damping, with 昀椀rm rebound damping that gives the XR its outstanding handling. An electronic damping valve acts as a bypass in real time. At any given instant, the damping is optimum no matter the conditions. The handling of the XR is absolutely exemplary. I have total faith in the front and can whip the bike around really tight, technical corners with as much ease and precision as I can on fast sweepers – you’ll probably be like me and see how far you can lean it over with the lean angle sensor displayed on the dash – I got it over to 47 degrees on the right and 46 degrees on the left – I did run out of ground clearance with the pegs to crank it over any more than that. LOL! This is also a testament to the standard 昀椀tment Metzeler
Roadtec 01 tyres.
The new brakes feature lean-angle sensitive ABS Pro, which limits the amount of braking pressure depending on the lean angle. The level of intervention depends on each riding mode, and in Dynamic Pro, the rear-wheel ABS can be deactivated to allow supermoto-style cornering slides. The brakes on the XR are absolutely fantastic - no two ways about itenormously powerful, and with tons of feel. There’s also a brake pressure readout on the dash – see how high you can get without 昀氀ipping it over.
The XR also features Dynamic Brake Control for shorter stopping distances and improved brake control. If emergency braking is detected, the DBC increases brake pressure at the rear wheel. Any throttle input over 昀椀ve percent is ignored. The dynamic brake light is also activated; the brake light 昀氀ickers and the hazard warning 昀氀ashers come on, warning following traf昀椀c that the rider is slowing rapidly
– I’m not a fan of this kind of thing as other road users wonder what is going on, but I do understand the safety point of view of this technology.
The 2020 BMW S 1000 XR’s new Hill Start Control Pro function (no doubt pinched from the GS), when enabled, causes the rear brake to hold the bike stationary on a gradient when either the hand or foot lever is applied. At a standstill on an up or downhill grade with any brake applied, the HSC Pro automatically applies the rear brake and holds the motorcycle stationary until pull away is detected. The HSC Pro can also be activated or deactivated manually.
The XR’s completely redesigned bodywork is seven percent more aerodynamic, according to BMW, and 6dB quieter at 100km/h.
The windshield has two (manually adjustable) positions, and I 昀椀nd both to be useful with no buffeting. The bodywork gives improved upper-thigh and lower-leg protection.
Using the colour sport instrument cluster from the RR superbike model, the XR version sees some specific adaptions. The instruments are comprehensive with all the usual information, and effortless to read.
A vehicle Status Overview screen is also available, and that includes tyre pressure monitoring. I love the cool way the dynamic red zone extended down when the motor was cold, and then gradually retracted up the range as the engine warmed up.
All-LED lighting including cornering headlights and daytime running lights makes everything smaller and much
Specs
BMW S 1000 XR CARBON SPORT
PRICE: $29,290 (plus on-road charges)
WARRANTY:Two years, unlimited distance
SERVICING INTERVALS:
Every 12,000km or 12 months
ENGINE: 999cc liquid-cooled in-line four cylinder, 80 x 49.7mm bore/ stroke, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
The XR now uses exactly the same wheels as the S 1000 RR supersport machine, fitted with the excellent Metzeler Roadtec 01 tyres (as mentioned) standard you’ll be a long way ahead of anyone else on the road – wet or dry!
The XR does have some integrated storage – a handy key fob pocket on the forward top of the tank is very much appreciated (just don’t forget to take it out when you stop), and there are accessory tank bags, side cases, and top cases available, plus plenty of other accessories to choose from.
FUEL CONSUMPTION: 7.2 litres per 100km, premium unleaded
THEORETICAL RANGE: 277km
COLOURS: Ice Grey, Racing Red
VERDICT: Dramatically better
BMW is now doing away with the ‘HP’ nomenclature for its special parts range, replacing it with the car-division-consistent ‘M’ branding, denoting limited-edition parts or models. For example, the M-labelled carbon fibre parts on this ‘Carbon Sport’ version are breathtakingly gorgeous and consist of side fairing scoops and chain guard/rear hugger. BMW has done it right with the new S 1000 XR (and especially this gorgeous Carbon Sport version) –it’s a real-world sport touring machine and being multifaceted, it fills a lot of roles in the one sweet package. D
Race into Motorrad Garage.
Welcome to the new home of Motorrad Garage.
Our Sydney headquarters, including warehouse and retail showroom, has relocated to new premises. From 1st September 2020, youíll find us at Race Central alongside Eastern Creek International Raceway.
For more information call or visit one of our showrooms or shop online at:
THE THINGS WE DO for your enjoyment… I should have been at my partner’s house, cuddling and caressing her, but instead I was on the lounge at home watching the unveiling of the new Triumph Trident prototype with the Triumph factory
The original Triumph Trident was designed by Bert Hopwood and Doug Hele and was a technically advanced, high-performance roadster (or standard) motorcycle made by Triumph Engineering and BSA (both companies then part of the Birmingham Small Arms Company) from 1968 to 1975, and sold under both the Triumph and BSA names (being the Rocket 3 for BSA).
Alongside the Honda CB750, and later the Kawasaki triples, it brought a new level of sophistication to street motorcycles, marking the beginning of the superbike era. The Honda CB750 overshadowed the Trident to be remembered as the ‘昀椀rst superbike’,
in spite of the Triumph Trident actually debuting before the Honda by a few weeks.
It had a 58bhp (43kW) 740cc air-cooled OHV in-line threecylinder engine, with four gears and a conventional chassis and suspension. The Rocket 3/Trident was part of Triumph’s plan to extend the model range beyond their 650cc parallel twins and the engine had less vibration than the existing 360° twins. It was the last major motorcycle developed by Triumph at Meriden, West Midlands, created to meet the demands of the US market. Although the 昀椀rm experienced serious 昀椀nancial dif昀椀culties, 27,480 Rocket 3/Tridents were produced during its seven-year history. Triumph has been a little coy at releasing full details of this new Trident and only showed a mockup, but it will be aiming at the likes of the Yamaha MT-07, Kawasaki Ninja 650 and Honda CB650. It does look a little
similar to the current Street Triple, but the Trident will feature a steel frame. It will be available in both LAMS and full powered versions. Triumph claims it will take cues from the original Trident in being a highperformance roadster and our guess is similar power outputs around the original 43kW will be what’s on offer – maybe a little less in LAMS spec and a little more in full power. Here’s some of what Triumph has to say about the new Trident: The Trident design prototype comes as a result of a 4-year development program led by a dedicated team in their design facility in the UK, Triumph’s global headquarters Conceived and developed by the Hinckley design team, with additional styling input from Rodolfo Frascoli, the Trident brief was focused on delivering a distinctive, dynamic and attractive new take on Triumph style and attitude.
Working with Rodolfo, a passionate
Triumph fan who has brought Italian design 昀氀air to the Triumph design language, most notably with the latest generation Tiger 900, the team focused on evolving what a contemporary Triumph should be, building on their recognised strengths and design DNA, the character and distinctive original style
Following their ethos to develop all aspects of a design in harmony, from the style, to the ergonomics, integrated technology and engine performance the Trident brief centred on delivering the complete motorcycle for the perfect ride.
The Trident design motorcycle integrates the original design development model with prototype components - built to showcase the style and attitude of the landmark new motorcycle to come. Its anticipated release will be early 2021 with more details to follow in the coming months. Introducing an all new contemporary
take on Triumph style and attitude, the Trident design presents a pure, minimalistic form, with clean lines and uncluttered features that incorporates Triumph’s design DNA, with signature tank knee indents and key cues from the iconic Speed Triple’s muscular poise Central to the overall form and brief, the Trident is built around a compact powerful Triumph triple engine, designed to bring all the advantages of a triple to the category for the 昀椀rst time, with the perfect balance of lowdown torque and top end power. With a distinctive and con昀椀dent stance and poise, the Trident will deliver rider ergonomics crafted to bring all of Triumph’s handling expertise, for the perfect balance of an engaged agile and dynamic ride, with an all-new chassis, married to great rider accessibility, comfort and con昀椀dence-inspiring feel, including a natural upright riding position.
The design prototype also highlights another key aim with the integration
of modern digital technology into the design that brings the features which riders in this world value and desire, in an elegant and easy to use way
Steve Sargent. Triumph Chief Product Of昀椀cer said:
“The Trident design prototype marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Triumph, where the brief was all about fun, from the look to the ride. With its pure minimalist form, clean lines, Triumph design DNA and more than a hint of our Speed Triple’s muscular poise, this gives the 昀椀rst exciting glimpse at the full Trident story to come. Ultimately our aim was to bring a new take on character and style, alongside the accessible easy handling and quality Triumph is known for – at a price that’s really competitive’’.
We can’t wait to ride this new model in the new year and really 昀椀nd out if it can take the 昀椀ght to the main competition in a hotly contested category D
Hey s y OR IS THAT, ëBOOT IEí?
COMPILED BY STUART
MOTORCYCLE
BOOTS ARE AN essential item you should be wearing every time you get on the bike. You can get all sorts of them from full-on racing, to adventure, casual, stylish and everything either side of those!
If youíve ever seen what happens to your ankles/feet when wearing sandshoes, or worse, thongs after sliding them along the bitumen in a crash, it is not pretty and can be devastating for your walking and general ease of life. So, we put the call out to the various motorcycle boot distributors and here is what they want you to know aboutÖ
FEATURE
TCX BOOTS
tcxboots.com.au or your local bike shop
Baja Gore-Tex ñ $499
TCXís top-of-the-range CE
Certified Adventure boot, the Baja Gore-Tex is designed for the modern-day Adventure rider who loves all road types in all weathers. Featuring a full-length Gore-Tex lining the boot is durable, highly protective, waterproof and yet breathes keeping you cool on those hot, dusty back roads.
Available in sizes: EU 38-48, US 5-13.
Clima Surround Gore-Tex ñ $449
This is claimed to be groundbreaking technology in the motorcycle footwear market – the Clima Surround boot breathes through the soles as well as through its abrasion resistant CORDURA fabric upper. Lined with a full sock Gore-Tex liner, the Clima Surround boots feature a high grip sole with multiple cast in ventilation holes. This makes the Clima Surround the perfect option for all riders who venture in the hot and wet regions of Australia. The lining is completely waterproof and yet offers amazing levels of breathability, perfect for hot conditions touring and adventure touring. As with all TCX boots, the Clima Surround is CE-certified to the latest standards and features shin, toe, heel and ankle protection.
Available in sizes: EU 36-48, US 3.5-13.
Boots
Hero Waterproof ñ $379
The TCX Hero WP is a classically styled waterproof boot and is now available in Black as well as the everpopular Brown. It features a full grain leather upper and a waterproof T-Dry lining that is breathable for all-weather riding. It has reinforced
RT-Race ñ $469.95
The TCX RT-Race is specifically designed for road-racing use maximising safety and comfort and is 100% CE-certified. It features a durable, lightweight microfibre upper designed to allow an easy step in and a precise fit. It has a breathable lining with soft touch mesh combined with double density foam for superior comfort. The RT-Race adopts TCX’s Double Flex Control System, polyurethane shin plates replaceable abrasion resistant toe sliders and magnesium and polyurethane heel sliders for maximum protection in the event of a crash.
Available in a range of colours and sizes: EU 38-49, US 5-14.
X-Boulevard Waterproof
Ladies ñ $279.95
Stylish and functional, the Ladies X-Boulevard WP boots provide a level of comfort and safety not usually seen in such a fashionable and casual looking boot. Featuring a full grain leather upper with a soft touch waterproof membrane lining plus a reinforced ankle support and reinforced heel and toe counter. Get comfy with a zip closure, an adjustable leather band, an anatomical footbed and a specific grip area sole with a 4.5cm heel.
Available in sizes: EU36-41, US 4.5-9.
ankle, heel and toe areas with leather shift pads plus Velcro, zip and lacing closure for security and comfort. Get adventurous with the “ideal” commando type sole for ultimate grip in the urban jungle.
Available in sizes: EU 36-48, US 3.5-13.
DAYTONA
Boots
DAYTONA BOOTS
Spirit Gore-Tex Boot
A water resistant sport-boot equipped with a Goretexmembrane, featuring a specially perforated calf leather, waterrepellent and greased calf/ nubuk leather with perforatedleather inserts, textile lining (80% polyamide/20% polyester), watertight and extremely breathable, optimum heat dissipation and extremely high breath ability to prevent overheating of your feet, zip fastener with leather covering inside the boot, Velcro fastener for different calf sizes, reinforced gear change cushion from abrasion resistant PU foam, PU foam sole, anatomically formed climatic insole, shinbone protection, with latex foam padding, ankle protection, both sides, soft shaft end, plastic reinforced inner sole with a hotdip galvanised steel inlay, that allows you to gently roll your feet, 3M-Scotchlite reflectors and a non-slip rubber sport-sole. Available in sizes: 36-49.
innotesco.com.au
Trans Tourman GTX ñ $840
All those who like it sporty will find a partner for their adventures in TransTourMan GTX. The travel enduro with the cross genes comes off-road. Nevertheless, you donít have to forego comfort: waterproof and breathable, with well padded, solid protectors and clever details such as exchangeable wear parts or the super comfortable entrance, for which zipper and Velcro have been combined. Two padded shaft ends keep dirt and splash water away. Waterproof and breathable thanks to Gore-Tex Duratherm Membrane. Massive shin protector. Large-surface plastic switching reinforcement. Inner side protection for ankle and calf. Nubuck leather with plastic lining. Adjustable in increments for different foot widths. Heel protector. Elastic ësuspensioní and adjustable for maximum individual adjustment and easy access.
Spirit XCR ñ $490
Daytona Spirit XCR motorcycle boots are a sports boot of an extremely high quality that are durable, waterproof and breathable. The Spirit XCR boots offer the highest level of comfort with an anatomically designed insole and an adjustable fastener to suit different calf sizes. The boots have a Gore-Tex membrane for water resistance and have excellent ventilation thanks to the special perforated calf leather upper. Non-slip rubber sport sole, perforated leather inserts, specially perforated calf leather Water-repellent and greased calf/nubuk leather with Textile lining. Thatís how perfect 4-season boots are made. Long Zip fastener with leather covering inside the boot makes it easy to wear. There is also a Velcro fastener for different calf sizes. Reinforced gear change pad made from abrasion resistant PU foam Anatomically formed climatic insole PU foam sole, shin protection with latex foam padding and Ankle protection both sides. Another addition to the safety is Plastic reinforced inner sole with a hot-dip galvanised steel inlay.
Daytona Spirit XCR boots are extremely airy, smooth and durable waterproof sportboot equipped with a Gore-Tex XCR membrane for maximum climatic comfort on hot days given the extra breathability it allows. CE certified to EN 13634:17
AC Classic GTX ñ $450
Daytona has made the AC Classics GTX motorcycle boot especially for lovers of the classic style. These biker boots go perfectly with biker jeans, a ìheavyî leather jacket and jet helmet. The noticeable lacing and discreet concealed side zipper with hook-and-loop strap make these boots very easy to put on. The nubuk leather boot features a GoreTex climate membrane which also ensures a pleasant in-boot climate. The Daytona AC Classic GTX Boots are a classic style that appears to be more a walking or hiking boots. However Daytona has designed the AC Classic Gore-Tex boots with motorcycle riding in mind. Nubuck leather boot made waterproof by Gore-Tex, breathable membrane underneath a subdued matte finish. Innersole reinforcement with a steel inlay provide motorcycle specific protection that your average casual hiking boots are lacking. CE certified to EN 13634:17.
AC Pro ñ $335
Daytona AC Pro Motorcycle shoes are designed with all the safety and comfort features in mind. AC Pro Riding Shoes are hand-made, and beautifully built. Everything from the stitching, to the quality of leather, as well as the velvety touch for the soft materials, oozes quality. These high-quality leather riding shoes offer solid protection from crashes and harsh elements, yet provide maximum support and comfort. All highwear, high impact areas like the toe box and heel are wellreinforced with a titanium slider. Ideal motorcycle boots for all-day riding and all the walking you might like to do off the bike, too.
KTM ktm.com.au or your local dealer
S-MX6 V2 Boots ñ $369.95
Sporty street boots featuring innovative ventilation in ankle, heel and metatarsus area, quick-drying polyamide lining, openpore foam cushioning and temper foam inserts for optimum shock absorption in the foot area, shockproof, abrasion-resistant, 2-layer PU protectors to protect shin, calf, ankle, heel and toes, MTP mesh lining and anatomically shaped, removable PU-foam rubber foot bed, exclusive compound rubber sole, made exclusively for KTM by Alpinestars.
Lady SL Pilot GTX ñ $470
The Daytona Ladies SL Pilot GTX boot is a short-shaft, all-rounder boot with a 6cm heel lift. A leather covered cork heel extension increases your height by 6 cm so you can more easily touch the ground at stop lights. Specially greased full leather cowhide is hydrophobic to keep water from penetrating the exterior. Gore-Tex waterproofing backs the hydrophobic hide to create a full featured touring boot that is both comfortable and protective. Special calf adjustments provide a secure fit. There are protectors in the ankles, the shin and heel, and you get a galvanised-steel, torsion-resistant inlay in the sole. 3M-Scotchlite heel reflectors help you stay visible at night, whilst a non-slip rubber sole ensures a sure footing. Shaft height: approx. 20 cm.
Corozal Adventure
Boots ñ $399.95
All-weather adventure boots made with a 100 % waterproof membrane for guaranteed weather protection and improved breathability, featuring reflective panels for greater safety, abrasionproof, rip-resistant microfibre material, sole with anatomically shaped, hardened steel insole, ergonomically shaped for optimum comfort over longer distances with reinforced toe cap, accordion flex zones front and back for maximum freedom of movement and ride comfort, textile lining on shank ensures boots are comfortable to wear. Made exclusively for KTM by Alpinestars.
FORMA BOOTS
lustyindustries.com.au
Hornet ñ $369.95
An amazing lightweight sports riding boot from Forma, great for touring, track days and general riding. Perfect for the rider that wants track level protection but with a more traditional design. European produced and feature packed.
F‹SPORT
Voyage ñ $274.95
Forma’s best-selling, award winning Touring boots. The Forma Voyage boots feature CE level protection, oiled full grain leather, Drytex waterproof membrane, Velcro +YKK zip closure and a reinforced front plate. A modern design with a Touringfocused blend of comfort and protection, at a great price. European produced.
fusportboots.com or your local bike shop
Simpson and Gibson ñ $199 & $169 respectively
Terra EVO ñ $489.95
If you are adventuring further away from paved and wellmaintained dirt roads, your feet will need more protection than traditional adventure-touring boots. The new Terra Evo’s sole has increased rigidity for a higher level of offroad protection, and also provides more durability for long distance stand-up riding. Heels and toes get external PU for tougher impact absorption and improved rider protection. The main boot structure is produced in oiled full-grain leather with a new FCS Ankle Support System to allow for maximum support without compromising touring comfort. The Terra Evo boots are an excellent waterproof dual-sport option if you favour that occasional mountain trail.
Available in black or brown and sizes: 38-49.
allowing on when off the bike. Integrated TPU inserts vide durable buckles ensure you won’t be
The Simpson and Gibson boots have been specifically designed for adventure riders. Both boots combine the comfort and flexibility of a road boot with the protective features of off-road boots. Equipped with a vintage leather finish with micro-porous, breathable lining and NextDry membrane construction that is waterproof and windproof to keep your feet dry without limiting range of motion, allowing you to focus on the road. The double density sole offers superb grip on the bike and gives riders a comfortable and grippy surface to walk on when off the bike. Integrated TPU inserts and reinforcements provide protection from impact injuries and super durable buckles ensure you won’t be sidelined if you have a tip over. The Simpson is a full height boot, with the Gibson being the shorter version. Both are comfortable and durable for long adventure touring.
Explorer ñ $229
Available in black or brown and sizes: 41-48.
Gibson being the shorter version. Both are comfortable wn
The Füsport Explorer touring boot combines comfort, allweather protection and allround functionality. Designed to be used year-round, they are waterproof, breathable and protective with inbuilt thermoformed protection, ankle protection and an antislip and wear-resistant sole. Featuring a classic leather style with reflective inserts they are comfortable, flexible and easy to put on and off. The Explorer really does tick all the boxes. Available in sizes: 39-46.
DRIRIDER
dririder.com.au or your local bike shop
Cattleman
– $199
A traditional styled dress boot with the added bene昀椀ts of protection for motorcycle riding. Made from premium cow leather and featuring soft polyester mesh lining, genuine YKK zipper with Velcro closure system, reinforced toe and heel inserts, supplied with removable gear shift protector, stretch comfort panel and monocompound sole.
Available in sizes: 39-48.
Explorer – $259.95
Made with an Italian micro昀椀bre and waterrepellent suede upper, featuring internal shin plate protection, waterproof and breathable lining, D3O internal ankle protectors (CE EN13634), adjustable buckle and Velcro closures, TPU gear change pad, antibacterial replaceable footbed, reinforced heel and toe area, anti-twist and puncture resistant midsole and an Adventure all terrain vulcanized rubber sole.
Available in sizes 39-48.
Tribute – $169.95
The new Dririder Tribute boot is a waterproof casual sneaker from Dririder available in both men’s and ladies’ sizes. Available in black/ black, black and gum, in men’s sizes: 41-48 and women’s sizes: 36-40.
Strada – $229.95
The Strada boot is a Sport/Touring boot made from leather with suede highlights to complete the style. Fitted with a waterproof breathable membrane, shin & ankle protection with anti-twist nylon mid sole. Large 昀氀ex zones front and rear for greater dexterity and comfort. Available in sizes: 39-48.
Rebel – $169.95
Very stylish ladies boot made from full grain leather, HIPORA waterproof and breathable liner, Polyester lining with open cell foam for comfort, Techno GI Thermoplastic toe cap and heel, anti-twist moulded Nylon mid sole and a vulcanised high-density anti-slip sole. Available in sizes 36-43.
ANDY STRAPZ
andystrapz.com
Sockz – $17 plus post or 3 for $45 posted
Whether you’re wearing motorcycle boots or not, socks are essential! Luckily for us, Andy Strapz has all of us covered. ‘Sockz’ are made from non-itch, 昀椀ne merino wool in Victoria, AU. A terri昀椀c all-day sock, they are 6cm longer than your regular sock to be more comfortable in bike boots. Heels, toes and sole are reinforced and padded. Special stay up tops complete a top-quality sock.
Available in sizes: 2-8, 6-10 and 11-14.
SIDI
mcleodaccess.com.au or your local bike shop
Rex Pro Level Race Boot – $649.95
Taking their place at the forefront of rider technology, the SIDI Rex Boots feature cutting-edge closure mechanisms, an ergonomic entry system, unmatched adjustability and progressive protection to make them one of the most comfortable and secure sport boots on the market.
Available in black, grey/black, red 昀氀uro/black, in sizes: 42-47.
Adventure 2 Gore – $649.95
Incorporating the indispensable features of the original ADV powerhouse SIDI Adventure Gore-Tex Boots, the SIDI Adventure 2 Gore-Tex Boots boast upgrades and re昀椀nements in strategic areas without upsetting the recipe that made the original such a standout success.
Available in black, grey or brown, in sizes: 41-50.
IT FEELS STRANGE
PUTTING together
this column. In one way I suppose it shouldnít. We usually plan major trips well ahead, so any current lockdowns or
travel restrictions ought not to make all that much difference. The trouble, however, is that we have no idea when we can go back to travelling which rather limits even planning.
Australia has quite draconian restrictions compared to much of the rest of the world. Not only is it difficult or even impossible to leave your home State, you canít leave Australia without special permission from the gummint. As far as I can work out, thatís just about unique in the world and possibly even unreasonable. After
GOING NO WHERE,
The open roadÖ when will we return to it?
(Photo from Compass, sadly no more)
all, there are countries around the world which have announced that they welcome Australians ñ but we canít visit them even if weíre quite prepared to submit to, and pay for,
isolation when we get back. I donít think thatís fair. There are Australian motorcyclists and overseas tour operators which are, in my opinion, being kept from what they can
reasonably expect to do ñ without endangering anyone in Australia. Australiaís response to the coronavirus has been helped along by a lot of luck ñ bad luck,
in Victoriaís case ñ but I think overall our various gummints handled it pretty well. Could we possibly consider a commonsense approach now to letting people travel?
COMPILED BY THE BEAR
WHERE,slowly
ONE OPERATOR
WHICH HAS not been completely stopped in its tracks is Sydney-based World on Wheels. Mike Ferris sent me his schedule for next year with the proviso that the tours will only run if they can be conducted safely.
WORLD ON WHEELS 2021
March 01-21
Yaks ëní Yetis
Three weeks cruising the Himalayan high roads through Nepal, India and Bhutan. Start with a joyflight to the face of Mt. Everest, try paragliding in Pokhara, ride to the birthplace of Lord Buddha, then a fully comprehensive 10-day traverse of the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
May 03-22
Dalmatian Delights
Six gorgeous countries in one tour! We start in Slovenia and track inland visiting National Parks throughout Croatia, Bosnia, Montenegro and Albania. Then we head to the Adriatic Sea and island-hop up the Croatian coast on our way to the spectacular Dolomites of Italy.
Jun 14-28
Incredible Iceland
We come to the Land of the Ice and Snow, and the Midnight Sun where the hot springs flow... a stunning land of nature at its raw, untamed wildest. Waterfalls,
Starting in Krakow, we cross Poland to Gdansk on the Baltic Sea and then traverse the three ex-Soviet states of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. We nip into Russia to visit St. Petersburg with its magnificent state monuments of Peterhof Palace and The Hermitage Museum.
Sep 01-19
Moroccan Magic
Motorcycle Shipping
Medinas, kasbahs, souks, riads and citadels. Ride the Atlas Mountains, Mediterranean and Atlantic Coasts, and the fringes of the Sahara Desert, where we experience a night in the sand dunes with Touareg musicians. Explore the delights of the exciting Marrakech Medina.
Sep27-Oct16
Spectacular South Africa
From Capetown to Joíburg and everywhere in between. We visit Kruger National Park for a game drive, the Great Karoo, the Garden Route, and Lesotho the ëKingdom in the Skyí. Stellenbosch wineries, stunning food and a ride to the Cape of Good Hope. Take a look at the recently re-vamped website, too ñ WorldOnWheels.tours.
JOURNEYS
ON THE GROUND, in the water…
The latest issue of Bike & Boat Travel News has just hit my inbox, and they are also carrying on with planning for 2021 with one familiar destination and one rather unusual oneNew Zealand, and United Arab Emirates and Oman.
BIKE AND BOAT
“Ride the world’s best motorcycling country, New Zealand from end to end to and more!
Another new Bike & Boat motorcycle adventure for 2021 is Arabian Harley!
A one-week exotic tour on the best paved biker roads in UEA and Oman... and comfortably with a Harley!” says the introduction, liberally dotted with exclamation marks.
Hobbiton:
Best of New Zealand in 16 days!
30.10 to 14.11.2021, 16 days and 25.12 to 09.01.2022, 16 days. Or with your own group any time during months 10-04.
Highlights, among other things: Hobbiton Village, Cape Reinga on the top of North Island, Slope Point on the bottom of South Island, Rotorua & Hangi Dinner, Coromandel
Peninsula & Hot Bath Beach, Mt Cook Village, Milford’s Sound Boat Cruise, Blue Penguins at Otago Peninsula and the Akaroa Peninsula.
Arabian Harley:
Best of UAE and Oman in 7 days!
06.03 to 12.03.2021, 7 days and 11.12 to 17.12.2021, 7 days. Or with your own group any time during months 10-04.
Highlights, among other things: Dubai & Burj Khalifa, the world’s highest building, and Palm Island, Route 66 UAE, Jabal Hafeet mountain, White Muscat surrounded by sea and mountains, Historical Nizwa, Hatta Heritage Village, Old Sur, capital of wooden boats in Oman’s maritime past, Sea, Sun and a lot of fun curvy roads.
More at www. bikeandboattour. com or from mail@ bikeandboattour.com.
GOOD NEWS FROM SPAIN
SCOTT FROM IMTBIKE INFORMS
me that the company is getting ready to 昀椀re up again, and also that it does not just conduct tours in Spain: tours
run in Provence, Tuscany and Morocco among others. Take a look at www.
IMTBIKE.com or drop a line to tours@IMTBIKE. com if you want to plan ahead a little. D
South Africa’s roads are calling, although for the moment we can’t hear them.
Yes, that’s me on the Jebel Haafet road. Bike & Boat will take you there, too.
IMTBIKE never passes up an opportunity to familiarize you with the local cuisine.
Himalayan Heights Spectacular South Africa
Dalmatian Delights
Beautiful Baltics
Moroccan Magic
Yaks ëníYetis
Awesome Andes
Incredible Iceland
It's hard to believe, but this iconic image is now more than 20 years old. It's a bit grainy; we took it on our first Andes tour, waaay back in the late 90's.
Many others have followed. But none has bettered.
World On Wheels. Leading the way for 27 years.
BREAKFAST IN NORTH
ADELAIDE is the way to start this ride. Itís a full dayís worth, so have a good brekkie to set yourself up properly. Stop at one of the cafÈs on or just off Jeffcott Street and work your way into the day. Head north and turn right into Barton Terrace West; this will take you to the Main North Road.
This is also the A1. Follow it to Gepps Cross and then take the oblique right turn into the A20, which you follow to Gawler. Take a left turn here onto the Mallala and carry on to Balaklava. You won’t find too many exciting corners so far (and for a while yet) but thatís South Australia for you: it does have terrific corners, but it also has a lot of flat land. Use the time to get used to the bike if you havenít ridden for a while.
If you want to short-circuit this part of the ride, stay on the A1 as far as Two Wells and turn off there for Mallala. Continue from Balaklava to Auburn on the B84 and turn right to Mintaro. This is not only a nice
road, it takes you to one of the most interesting little towns in the State. Mintaro used to, ands for all I know still does, export slate to Great Britain. Yes, they sold the Pommies rocks…
Please don’t bother threatening me with the Human Rights Commission or whomever for using the “P” word. Someone referred me to them a few years a go and they knocked the complaint back. Seriously! Or maybe not seriously; maybe they had a bit of a laugh. I did.
Okay. Mintaro. The pub, which is called the Magpie & Stump, is a top place and you can always drink something non-alcoholic. Lots of wonderful photo opportunities here. The Mintaro Maze is also a lot of fun, mainly for kids but let’s face it, we are motorcyclists and therefore grown-up
The
3. And then we head down through the Barossa and past lots of cellar doors.
4. You can go and see the slate quarries, but all you’ll see is rocks, flat ones.
kids! Leaving town, take the Manoora road south. This is another enjoyable run, and is actually called the Min Man Road. Where it reaches the Barrier Highway, the A32, turn right and then left again into John Street. John Street becomes Waterloo Road and takes you to Waterloo, where you turn right into Main Road 45 and on south to, eventually, Kapunda. This is a pretty little place with
1. One of the displays is a wonderfully accurate replica of Daimler’s first bike.
2.
Magpie & Stump at Mintaro does decent tucker as well and is really pretty.
a Heritage Trail and, at its southern end, an eight-metre tall statue known as Map the Miner (actually of a bloke called Map Kernow) which honours the Cornish copper miners who founded the townís prosperity.
Take the B81, the Thiele Highway, south for a little way and then turn left into Greenock Road to, Predictably enough, Greenock. Another left into Sir Condor Laucke Way takes you across the Sturt Highway and on to Nuriootpa. Both Penfolds and Maggie Beer provide opportunities to spend your hard-earned dollars here. Turn right And then almost immediately left into Railway Terrace, the B10. Follow that down to Angaston. On the way youíll see the Angaston Cemetery on your right; itís worth stopping and reading some of the gravestones. Apart from all the wineries ñ youíre in the Barossa Valley now ñ Angaston also holds the Barossa Cheese Company. Follow the B10, and some way out of Angaston youíll see the Stott Highway peeling off to the left. Youíre on your way to the Mighty Murray at Swan Reach now, first across the Mt Lofty Ranges and then the river flats. Ferries are considered essential service even during the COVID-19 hassle, so you can cross the Murray River here before turning right into Victoria Street, passing the Swan Reach pub, another good victualling venue, and the Mid Murray Classic Car Gallery on the way and continuing on Nildottie Road. Donít be tempted by River Reserve Road; it’s a terrific little ride but itís also a dead end. Eventually Nildottie Road joins Hunter Road, and that takers you down to the Walker Flat turnoff, Angas Valley Road. Take a look at Forster Lookout; the view is well worth it. Then continue down to the Walker Flat Ferry, cross the river again and follow Angas Valley Road around Lake Bywaters. Beware the sharp right turn where Mallee Road starts. Angas Valley Road takes you on a compass heading across the floodplain again and on through the Mt Lofty Ranges to Eden Valley Road, the B10, at Mount Pleasant. Turn left to Birdwood, which Iím sure you know holds the National Motor Museum as well as Billís Bits and Bikes
1. The Mt Lofty Ranges specialise in well surfaced, winding roads.
2. Youíre not really meant to park your bike right outside the museum.
3. Theyíre not kidding with this sign at the bottom of the Corkscrew.
across the road.
Here are two trivial pursuit questions: Which motorcycle in the museum have I ridden, and which car have I driven? Admittedly your special subject would have to be ìThe Bearís Careerî to know both answers, but you should be able to get the first one if you are a regular reader. Think ënot a motorcycle magazineí for the second.
There is a pleasant cafÈ across from the museum and roughly next to Bill’s where you will find other motorcyclists pretty much any time.
Iím not going to take you any further from here because there are so many options. Just head west. But if I found myself where you are, I would at least include the Corkscrew and the Scenic Hotel at Norton Summit on my way back to the City Of Churches and Coopers Beers. Call it 450km all up, and as you can see from the map there are plenty of opportunities to shorten or lengthen it. Take the saddlebags and pick up a few bottles of wine, and some cheese to justify the ride to whomever you need to justify it to. D 3
HIGHLIGHTS
Riding in Carpathian Mountains, Brasov, Sighisoara, Sibiu, Transfagarasan Road, Istanbul, Gallipoli, Transalpina, Black Sea
JUN 19 - JUL 4, 2021
OLD TOWN ROAD
Glen Innes, NSW WORDS STUART
THE OLD GRAFTON ROAD
(aka the Old Glen Innes Road if you come from Grafton) wasnít always a back road; before the Gwydir Highway opened in 1962 it was the only way to get from the mountains to the sea, and it took days ñ a week if you were travelling by horse. Today it will take about four hours, if you donít stop for a riverside picnic along the way. From the Glen Innes end the trip begins in rainforest atop the aptly named Big Hill and winds down to the valley floor in a steep series of switchback turns. At the bottom is the Mann River Nature Reserve, a great place to have a picnic and a swim in one of the large waterholes. This scenic road, which is unsealed (and generally in good condition) most of the way, follows the course of the Mann and Boyd rivers ñ literally. In many places, the road has been cut into the side of the cliffs that flank the watercourse, and in one spot passes through a 20m hand-hewn tunnel through the rock. Many websites will tell you it was built by convicts. It wasnít, although the poorly paid contract labourers back in 1867 probably felt like they were working in a chain gang.
Stop and take a look at the memorial at Newtown Boyd ñ 30 young men from the now-vanished village went off to fight in WWI; only one came home ñ and wander around the ghost town of Dalmorton, home to 3000 people in the 1890s. Today, the police stables and lock-up, a disintegrating butcherís shop and cottage, and a few forlorn foundations are all thatís left. This road trip is more than just a pretty day out, itís a trip back in time.
GRAFTON
There are few more elegant cities than Grafton. Built on the banks of the Clarence River, part of the east coastís largest river system, itís home to grand historic buildings, classic country pubs and a captivating floral festival.
There are over 2000 Jacaranda trees in Grafton and when they blossom each spring the whole city turns purple. Jacaranda trees in Grafton date back to 1879 when seed merchant Henry Volkers introduced the species.
Over the years more jacarandas were planted, attracting visitors from around the world for the famous purple blooms.
Time your visit to take in Graftonís iconic Jacaranda Festival held from the last weekend of October to the first weekend of November. It’s the country’s oldest floral festival, dating back to 1935. The city comes to a standstill for Jacaranda Thursday with a parade, markets, entertainment and more.
Explore the townís rich Victorian and Edwardian architecture on the Grafton Heritage Trail. Step back in time at the Clarence River Historical Society at Schaeffer House, a magnificent federation homestead.
NEW SOUTH WALES
OLD GLEN INNES ROAD
There are two parts to this map and itís up to you how you go about it. We rode the Old Glen Innes Road from Grafton to Glen Innes and then returned via the Gwydir Hwy to Grafton.
From Graftonís main roundabout head west about nine kilometres and
turn left onto Old Glen Innes Road. Follow around 30kms and turn right to stay on Old Glen Innes Road. Pretty much follow the river as you wind in and around until the road starts to veer away from the river and heads north before turning into Old Grafton Road. Follow this all the way to the Gwydir Hwy, turn left and roll
into Glen Innes.
For the return route just follow the Gwydir Hwy all the way to Grafton. Distance - 342km total ñ 164km from Glen Innes to Grafton on Gwydir Hwy Fuel ñ Grafton, Glen Innes.
TEAR-OUT MAP
Grafton is the perfect base for exploring the wild rivers, stunning gorges and ancient rainforest of nearby Nymboida National Park.
The Grafton Regional Gallery is in Prentice House, built in 1880. See works from famed Aussie artists like Ken Done and Doris OíGrady, as well as contemporary indigenous artists.
DALMORTON
Beer lovers and get-rich-quick enthusiasts once rejoiced! Out in the thriving Gold Rush town of Dalmorton were 13 pubs awaiting your patronage. I said, ìwereî. History, scenery and charm are still going strong, however.
Dalmorton was once a thriving community of over 5000 people and 13 pubs during the gold rush era of the 1850s and 1860s. Today the war memorial and a road sign are all that remain of the township.
Explore the spectacular scenery around Dalmorton including the Boyd River nestled among high-forested slopes and the historic tunnel. The National Parks and Wildlife Service has opened a camping and picnic area near the Boyd River with picnic tables, toilets, fireplaces and an information shelter.
NEWTON BOYD
The Newton Boyd War Memorial column is made from Australian marble. The lower portion of the memorial is square, with each side holding a marble tablet bearing the names and ranks of those from the area who served. One of the tablets is dedicated to those who did not return. The upper portion is a cylindrical column. It has a rifle and sword design worked into the front. The column is topped by an Ionic capital. The memorial is surrounded by a fence made from concrete posts and metal. The ends of the metal poles are each capped with a fleur-de-lis.
The town of Newton Boyd no longer exists, but the monument remains and is only a few kilometres from the tunnel youíve not long ago passed through. Some of the veterans listed on the monument can also be seen on the Newton Boyd Honour Roll.
GLEN INNES
Situated in rolling gemstone country near the MacIntyre River, this beautiful area is rich with adventure and history. Try your luck fossicking for gems, explore Celtic heritage and history and bushwalk in spectacular World Heritage rainforest.
The soil around Glen Innes is rich with gems like sapphires, emeralds, quartz, garnets and citrine. Pick up a fossicking map from the information centre and get to it! The Emmaville Mining Museum houses a great collection of local specimens and memorabilia.
Get panning for gold at Three Creeks Tourist Gold Mine, and prospecting for sapphires at Billabong Blue Sapphire Fossicking Park and 7 Oaks Sapphire Fossicking. If you strike it rich, remember our spotters fee. LOL!
GIBRALTAR RANGE
Gibraltar Range National Park treats you to magnificent walks (if you’re up for it), a number of lookouts along the way and picnic spots in World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforest. More information ñ Glen Innes Visitor Information Centre, 02 6730 2400; gleninnestourism.com. Clarence River Visitor Information, 02 6642 4677; clarencetourism.com
ìTHE BIKE IS A REAL AUSTRALIAN SPECIAL BUILD UP FROM BITS AND PIECES, LIKE SO MANY OTHERS FROM THE PRE-JAPANESE ëRUN WOT YOU BRUNGí ERA.î
How do you make a bike up from bits and pay homage to the racers from the í30s?
WORDS/PHOTOS PICKO
THE NAME ROB ROWE will be instantly recognisable to many in the classic car racing game, both as a competitor and a mechanic. Rob has made it his life’s work driving, racing and fettling machinery. If it was old and cool, whether it be on two or four wheels, Rob was interested in it.
This particular bike, the OK Supreme, came into Rob’s life a little bit later in life you might say, and it is a beautiful machine. Not in a shiny paint, polished alloy, rose joints everywhere way, but in the simple ‘get it on the track with what you have’ way. Rob’s OK Supreme has been built to represent that era, the 1930s, when money was tight and you had to use what was lying around.
In my mind it is a wondrous racing bike, with just about as much character as you can shove into a motorcycle. It is raucous, lithe, rattly, and a whole lot of fun to ride. It also has a hint of danger about it. Just the right combination for ‘derring do’ you might say.
But rather than me tell you all about the bike, I thought it best that Rob tells you, and how it all started. But I will say that Rob obviously knows what he’s doing and even though he is technically ‘retired’ he had a couple of classic race cars in his workshop and a Lotus Twin Cam engine on the bench that he was fettling for customers.
A mechanical life for me
“For my tenth birthday my dad bought me a year’s subscription to Modern Motor magazine. I learnt to read and got hooked on motoring at the same time,” said Rob.
“I naturally gravitated towards a mechanical trade, and as an apprentice motor mechanic I was lucky enough to work on tractors and trucks, which had all the good stuff like turbo chargers, dry sump engines, multi speed gearboxes and so on.
“On the weekends I would work on cars, road and race, so I learned even more. In those days you had to get the work done quickly, ef昀椀ciently and
“DR GOOGLE REVEALED THAT THE KR HARLEYS HAD THE SAME BORE AND STROKE AND THAT INDIAN PISTONS WOULD FIT,AND JAGUAR VALVES WERE JUST A BIT BIGGER.”
right because many of these vehicles were needed for either getting to work or for work. There wasn’t another car sitting in the shed for most people. Remember how many old houses only had one garage?
“Eventually my passion for cars allowed me to become a TAFE teacher. By the mid-eighties cars were becoming like white goods, thrown away after a few years and replaced with something newer.
“I left TAFE and started a workshop at Amaroo Park; every day there were people passionate about interesting race cars and bikes. No more modern road cars for me! Modern and historic race cars and bikes have occupied my life ever since.”
Small enough to be a bike
“I bought a 1921 Amilcar when I was 15, I wanted to race it. The odd race for old cars was held at Parramatta
CLASSICAL GAS
Park and then annually at Warwick Farm from 1960.
“I got another Amilcar when I started work. That one was turned into a racer complete with a supercharger.
“I made a nuisance of myself with motor racing circuit owners and managed to get one race per year for old cars, at each of the circuits. That came to an end in 1973 with the closure of Warwick Farm and the preference for Tin Tops at Oran Park in 1974.
“I had the idea of a combined All Historic race meeting for cars and bikes.”
With a great committee of friends and the Vintage Sports Car Club, All Historic racing started in 1976.
“MOTOR SPORT IS NOT ALL ABOUT WINNING! IT IS ABOUT HAVING A GO! IF IT WAS ALL ABOUT WINNING WHY DO THE OTHER TWENTY-FIVE RIDERS LINE UP ON THE GRID?”
“I wanted to be part of the bike scene but with no riding experience at all, I became a sidecar passenger. First with Roger Byrnes then Frank Cuttell, Brian Duffy, Terry Wright and Rob Hart. Mick Rock loaned me his Triumph sidecar out昀椀t and I rode it at Winton one year with my son Wayne as passenger, so I went from hanging on, to being the one in control. But in a back to front sort of way I am now only just beginning my solo riding career.”
The OK
“I somehow swapped my way into the OK Supreme frame and forks with David Barker, he told me that it was a two 昀椀fty,” added Rob.
“Over a period of years I was given a 500 JAP single and then the 750 JAP twin. I thought that the 750 side valve would be easier to ride than a 500, so the 500 was sold off.
“Roger Byrnes gave me a Manx gearbox with a broken case and some gears inside it.
“The front wheel did some work in David Barkers Dunkley and the back wheel is prewar BSA but not M20.
“The Hand Change fuel tank has not yet been identi昀椀ed. Most parts had to be modi昀椀ed in some way, but eventually they all 昀椀tted into the hole.
“When I 昀椀rst ran the engine the front piston broke and bent the rod!
Dr Google revealed that the KR Harleys had the same bore and stroke and that Indian pistons would 昀椀t, and Jaguar valves were just a bit bigger. So, the replacement internals
for the prewar JAP were on the shelf.”
Design ethos
“The bike is a real Australian Special build up from bits and pieces, like so many others from the pre-Japanese ‘run wot you brung’ era,” continues Rob.
“Factory bikes are beautiful, well 昀椀nished and coherent in design. Very few specials achieved this level of sophistication, even though that is what their owners wanted to achieve.
“Australiana, whether it be furniture, houses, culture, cars or bikes is often overlooked, that it is somehow ‘substandard’, but it is who we are, where we have come from.
“I wanted my OK Supreme Special to be representative of our at times inglorious past.
“I asked Neil Hughes to race the OK for me at Winton in 2015 for its 昀椀rst ever event. With such an experienced rider on board I knew that I would learn a lot more about the machine in one event than I could in years of racing it myself. Neil just came in after the 昀椀rst race and said, “the OK is OK!”
“Motor sport is not all about winning! It is about having a go! If it was all about winning why do the other twenty-昀椀ve riders line up on the grid?” D
YAMAHA MT-07 LA Urban brawler
THE WELL-ESTABLISHED
YAMAHA MT-07 has taken Australia by storm. It has been at or near the top of sales each quarter since its introduction. I actually bought one from the second shipment – a purple one, which I then went about derestricting and so on. Apparently, I was the 昀椀rst in the country to do so at the time. The only thing you can’t change is the size of the pistons unless you strip and rebore the barrel of course.
I loved that purple machine. It was a ball-tearer of a bike that did everything you could ask of it. I took it out for a track day on the short circuit at Eastern Creek –carving up litre bikes left right and centre – not bad for a ‘learners’ bike’. Roll on a handful of years later and the 2020 Yamaha MT-07 had mainly seen styling changes, but a couple of years ago, retuned forks and a more adjustable shock were 昀椀tted. I remember the 昀椀rst MT-07 model being very soft, but this one is much more re昀椀ned. The forks got
new rebound damping and spring rate, while the shock’s compression damping and spring rate were changed and there’s a rebound damping adjuster to 昀椀ne-tune the ride. As a runabout kind of motorcycle the standard suspension with maybe a preload adjustment in the rear would be suf昀椀cient for most riders but if you want a little more from this lil’ ripper I suggest spending a bit on something like the Street Box from YSS Suspension to make this thing razor sharp, while soaking up all of the lovely road imperfections we have. ABS is standard equipment on the MT-07 and the four piston front calipers have plenty of power and feel. I preferred the non-ABS version I had but moving with the times and regulations it is a must-have now. General handling and manoeuvrability from the 182kg wet weight make it a breeze to handle for any rider. Light, 昀氀ickable and stable are the words that come to mind – it is also easy to push around the garage, or while parking at the shops.
The Riders Tour
Paradise MotorcycleTours in association with Australian Motorcyclist Magazine is heading back to the South Island for one of the best tours ever held. Not only will you be seeing and riding all the best bits of the world-famous South Island, but youíll be heading to Invercargill for the Burt Munro Challenge. Four days of old school racing where you can literally touch the action flying past you. Stuart and the Paradise crew are hanging for this tour, it will be one not to be missed. BOOK NOW! DO NOT MISS OUT! RIDE THE BEST ROADS. MAKE GREAT FRIENDS. HAVE THE BEST TIME OF YOUR LIFE! TOUR DATES 8 ñ 21 February 2021
CONTACT Paradise Motorcycle Tours, NOW!
PHONE + 64 27 476 5035
EMAIL info@paradisemotorcycletours.co.nz
TEST
The 805mm seat height doesn’t feel anything like this number indicates. I put that down to the slim shape of the front of the seat and back of the tank.
The heart of the MT-07 is the CP2, 655cc parallel twin. Max torque is quite low in the rev range and the thing that makes the MT07 such a fun bike to ride. You have probably heard Learner and Provisional riders roaring around the streets with their open exhaust systems, but standard the MT-07 is very re昀椀ned and you’d hardly think Valentino Rossi is carving up your street on his MotoGP bike.
Taking styling cues from its older brothers -- the MT-09 and MT-10 -- the MT-07 features aggressive elements like the headlight, air scoops and tank cover. In fact, the headlight is one you’ll 昀椀nd on many custom builds
as it’s compact and looks awesome. At the back end the seat, tail section and tail light take inspiration from the MT-10. That spices up the look of the MT-07 a bit, making the whole family of bikes lean and mean.
The MT-07’s riding position feels more roomy compared to the one I owned and at the same time as the restyle, Yamaha gave the MT-07 a claimed 30 percent more rider space, allowing you to have more room when seated on the bike. The MT-07 wasn’t particularly cramped before, though this does give a little more
FUEL CONSUMPTION: 6.24 litres per 100km, premium unleaded
THEORETICAL RANGE: 224km
COLOURS: Ice Fluo, Icon Blue, Tech Black
VERDICT: Cracking good motorcycle
room for us taller riders. Black out components aid in the aggressive look and it’s the details that make the whole package look great - minor details like blacking out the handlebar, rearsets and linkage help with the persona.
As a do-it-all motorcycle from Learners to experienced motorcyclists who want an awesome bike for day-to-day riding, it is hard to go past the Yamaha MT-07. And if you want a bit more power on a full licence there is always the ‘HO’ (High Output) version. D
N O N E – E V E N T
BRIGHTEN UP
HERE ARE A FEW words from the Black Dog Ride newsletter which popped into my inbox a couple of days ago. I’ve been living with depression for a few years, so this is close to my heart. PT
We can’t plan big trips or big events for the moment, but here’s a few things we can do. Remember we’re not alone We Black Dog Riders have been coming together for our crucial cause for ten years now. Even when we’re not meeting, please remember we are not alone! Let’s connect with the great people we’ve met along the way. Get in touch with others through text, phone call, Facebook, whatever, but please do try to connect with each other while we all go through this crazy time.
Get out for a social ride
Right now Black Dog Riders are planning social rides to take place in coming months. If you’d like to run a social ride we’d love to help make that happen.
our technology to interact socially with friends, family, and work colleagues.
Using an audio visual teleconferencing app like Skype, Messenger, Google Hangouts, House Party, What’s App or Zoom:
l Simply catch up with friends for a chat together - easy.
l Have lunch together - you can do that as a work team or with friends and family.
l Play Charades - an easy one to do with people on camera.
l Do crossword puzzles togetherthey should take no time at all.
l Hold a talent show or Karaoke night
- discover an amazing talent near you.
Help to beat the black dog
Put your mind to something to look after your mental health
Spending most of our waking hours with our mind on either work or home duties is far from ideal. Our mental health bene昀椀ts greatly from having other things to focus our mind on. You may not be able to get out and do things at the moment, but now is the perfect time to research and plan. Research and plan what?
l Your next bike project.
l A holiday you’d like to take one day in the future.
l Your family tree - check out https://www.ancestry.com.au
“Hold on: I’ll get the hang of countersteering eventually!”
If you have a great idea for a day trip, or even a two or three day trip, let us know and we’ll be able to help get the word out to our Black Dog Riders right across the state. These rides can be simple - no support vehicle, no big volunteer crew, just a simple social ride. Just email registrations@ blackdogride.org.au with your idea and we’ll work with you to make it happen. Be social to look after your mental health.
Humans are social animals (yes, even we introverts), and social interaction plays a big part in maintaining our mental wellbeing. But how do we socialise when we all need to be isolating ourselves? Well, we need to get inventive. Here are a few ideas on how we can make use of
l Play games over the internet while chatting with your opponents.
l Hold a trivia night - use a board game or 昀椀nd an online version.
l Do Yoga together - have one person share screen on a YouTube class, and there you have it.
Using your phone:
l Create a group chat using one of the apps like Messenger.
l Call someone - you can have multiple people on the one call using your smartphone.
l Experiment with an app you haven’t used before - Snap Chat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook.
l A hobby you’d like to take up - check out https://en.wikipedia. org/wiki/List_of_hobbies
l Warning - stay informed about COVID 19, but don’t spend all your time thinking about it.
Get physical to look after your mental health
Exercise (even moderate exercise) helps to reduce stress, lift our mood and supports better sleep, so it can play a major role in maintaining our mental health. And, of course, exercise is great for our physical health in many ways. Isolation can quickly lead to less physical activity, so right now it’s more important than ever to get active.
Rest to look after your mental health
Rest and relaxation reduce stress and improves overall health. It enables us to have more energy to get through the day, improves your concentration and short-term memory, allows essential time for physical recovery, and supports healthy sleep.
Remember, if you or a friend are feeling ruff, you can call Lifeline 24/7 on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service 24/7 on 1300 659 467. More from the Black Dog Ride at www. blackdogride.org.au, or from email of昀椀ce@blackdogride.org.au D
Brand new,7th July 1976.
IWORDS/PHOTOS
FRANK CACHIA
FRANKLY SPEAKING
THE HISTORY OF ONE SPECIAL BMW R 90 S
FIND THAT THROUGHOUT
MY life motorcycling has been so all absorbing, any other outdoor and indoor activities either donít exist or come a very poor second,î says Frank. ìTo paraphrase a Steve McQueen line ñ ëTo me, motorcycling is life, anything that happens before or after, is just the waiting for the next rideí. Nevertheless, while Frank was convalescing from his industrial injury, he wrote eight books: two
for adults and five children’s books about budgerigars as well as a weight loss book.
It all starts with an argumentÖ is the R 90 S the best BMW?
In a group discussion about BMW motorbikes (what else is there to talk about?), one question raised was ìWhich is the best BMW?î
Before anyone had a chance to open their mouth I stated that the R 90 S is the best BMW.
Well, that certainly raised a few eyebrows and changed the group discussion. Letís face it, it was, to those present, a rather sweeping statement, and that further opened up the discussion. I was challenged to prove it. I was interrupted by one rider who nominated his model, the BMW R1200RT. Others quickly joined in, each nominating their favourite model. When they had finished I stood up and said. ìWell youíre all just biased
and so am I, so, as Iím a one eyed, dye in the wool and totally bias, I still nominated the R 90 S.î They laughed. But is this enough? Is bias the stick to use to judge? If not bias, should it be compared to others or is it so far apart that it makes it Incomparable?
Another rider elected the S1000XR, rightly calling it a weapon. I said yes, youíre right, but that is its only attribute. The R 90 S hasnít a hope in hell of matching the S1000XR speed
but then again its versatility means that although it does nothing outstanding, it does everything itís asked of it. So I continuedÖ
Looking at a Harley or a Ducati is a very personal and highly subjective appraisal. If you donít appreciate it though, that is the finish of the argument. There are no winners or losers in that sort of assessment.
On the other hand, if the discussion centres around an objective assessment
of a particular motorcycleís attributes, then that is different. If the bikeís performance can be measured against a yardstick to gauge, subjectively if necessary, its stated attributes, then that is even better.
Unlike other makes, the BMW on the other hand, is an excellently constructed motorcycle. This excellence may be evidenced by the observation that a model with say 160,000 or so kilometres under its
FRANK HISTORY
wheels has a feel and performance closely comparable to its equivalent new model.
Quite a few BMW models have earned praise over the years; they earned a reputation that endeared them over the decades to BM owners. Look at the R 69 S: apart from being able to cruise at the ëmagical toní all day long, it gave the rider a sense of dependable reliability and an inner strength that can easily take it from point A to point B irrespective of the distance in between.
The 1937 R12 positively won rave reviews. The engineís strong low down torque helped the selection of the slow operating petrol tank mounted gear lever. And once in top gear, sit back and enjoy the ride. Forget about acceleration, braking, handling or suspension behaviour. This was motorcycling at its most basic. There was no need to glance at any instruments or a need for any idiot lights. There
was absolutely no hurry; it wasnít important what speed you were doing, as a matter of fact from here on time wasnít even an issue. Just like any BMW single you have all the time in the world. The R12 was so good that it found its way into the armed forces and with modifications saw service throughout Hitlerís European tour. The last rider in the group liked the F 650 GS and rightly so, after all ìit got me halfway across the planetî. But is that enough? After all most of the planet has been conquered by earlier BMW models.
So going back to my nomination, the R 90 S, whatís so special, why should this be nominated as being the very best of the range?
As soon as the bike was officially launched, it became the most visually appealing bike on the market. What made it most attractive were the stylised fairing and the obvious eye appeal of the paint work. The handlebar mounted fairing was the first of its kind from the factory and to add the ëcherryí on top, sporting a clock and volt meter inside it. Iím sure this was a one upmanship since the invention of the electric starter.
Long distance touring.
trays offered plenty of space to carry a comprehensive tool kit with a handy cleaning towel to boot.
into silver known as the Daytona Orange. This again was a first as all previous BMW motorcycle colour schemes had always been on the conservative side. These two features had definitely helped BMWs break out from their traditional, conservative image. Even now, four decades later, motorcyclists still take a second look as any of the models pass by. They might not know the make and model but theyíll look just the same.
Compared to previous models this was a hot rod. It was able to genuinely reach 205km/h. At one stage this resulted in being the fastest twin cylinder pushrod operated motorcycle in the world. On the road it showed that it is a high stepping thoroughbred. Just dial the amount of speed required and it will do it without raising a sweat. These are just a few points to help show the innovations and improvements on this model.
Ironically just as the bike attracted riders to leave the Japanese bikes and turn to BMW, mostly due to being more updated that the traditional BMW, it also turned BMW riders away as it was too much a giant step forward breaking from tradition. After all, till the /6 model came out it was widely known that only boring old riders rode BMWs.
As the engine was quite a versatile unit, a number of them were raced and used for sidecar duties.
The vibrant two-tone paint job was clearly a unique one off that hasnít been replicated by any other make or model. Two tone colour schemes, the first released model offered the conservative black fading into silver named Silver Smoke followed by the rather flamboyant orange fading
The R 90 S also sported the first double disc brake system up front, an item that like the fairing was very quickly adopted by other makes. Although the 38mm Dell Orto mechanical pumper accelerator carburettors were previously used in Ducati models, the ësouped upí S helped launch them unlike any other BMW. It also did wonders for helping the high compression engine turn over in cold weather. Two under the seat
When the updated model, the R 100 S, came out it lacked the R 90 S strong acceleration and showed how outstanding the S was. The R 100 S actually promoted the R 90 S.
In 2015 I was fortunate to ride an R 100 RS with its owner on his R 90 S from Billings, Montana to Spokane, Washington. No matter what speed we travelled at, every time we did a top gear roll on the R 90 S simply accelerated away.
Five years later the R 90 S was still popular, still going very strong, and the old guard (having gotten over the
Bogged in mud.
Nullarbor dreaming.
At 333,333km.
FRANK HISTORY
shock of the ìnew kid on the blockî) wanted one. The problem was that they had stopped producing the S and riders in the market who now wanted one suddenly found themÖ wanting.
As more time passed the R 90 S was starting to reach classic status and so market value started to rise. And it wasnít a case of buying one, it was a case of the owner not selling.
I have from 44 years of owning a R 90 S [see more below] heard from here and overseas far too many riders truly regretted selling an S. Iím amazed how riders who sold theirs S decades ago still look at it with favourable eyes and truly regret their action.
So when one does come onto the market, not an everyday event, keep in mind that over four decades have now passed and donít expect to be the only possible buyer. And prepare to spend big bucks.
Have a look at these figures. In 1976 in Australia the R 90/6 cost $3000 and the R 90 S was $3595. Thirty-five years later the R 90/6 in mint condition sold for $8000 while the R 90 S went for a mouth-watering $18,000.
Excluding pre WW2 model, which other model BMW reached such high value? So now over four decades later,
way after production ceased, how is the R 90 S is still making itself felt? Well, look at the retro styled bike named after the S, the R9T. What other model has ever had another named after it?
A bit of trivia. Accelerating from a standing start to 100km/h, the 67hp R 90 S is only .8 of a second slower than the 98hp R 1100 S. Not bad for a 40yo bike! No wonder it earned the tag of BMW’s first superbike.
These history facts tell me that the R 90 S is the best BMW around. How do I really, know, though?
At 250,000km.
Meet an R 90 S known as KaTie.
On 5th July I placed a $20 deposit and on the 7th July 1976, wearing a new helmet, gloves and a ëMarlon Brandoí leather jacket, I threw my leg over a brand new Daytona Orange BMW R 90 S. From the word go, I loved riding this bike. It was everything that I ever wanted from a motorbike. Yes, I rode it to work and participated in the local BMW club events, but come a long
weekend or holidays and I was out indulging in my first love, long and by now ultra-long distance touring. Within a couple of months, I rode across the width of Australia. Checking with BMW Germany, records show that the bike was assembled on 1st February 1976.
At a motorbike race meeting in 1978 I met three fellow club members. One of them asked me about Katie and how is she?
I looked at him wondering to whom he was referring. The rider looked at the other two, looked back at me and pointed to the R 90 S. ìSheís Katieî, he casually replied. I broke up laughing wondering how he came to this conclusion. Again looking first at his mates than
Bush fire,1981.
Frankís bike
back at me he pointed to the registration plate. Where he triumphantly pointed, the registration lettering clearly show K.T. Therefore I had assumed that your bike name is Katie. The name stuck.
folded walking stick and extra pain medication, I attended a BMW rally, a round trip of 2448km (1521 miles). Boy was I exhausted, forcing me to stop for the night after just on 914km (567 miles). The return trip however was a total triumph covering the 1224km (760 miles) in just 15 hours. I slept well that night.
Incidentally none of these accidents happened whilst riding the S. When asked if KaTie is OK and informed that KaTie wasnít at any of the accidents, fellow riders breathed a sigh of relief. In other words, never mind about my state of health, as long as KaTie is OK. Right, back to the bike.
Apart from close to one six year period hardly had a week passed by without riding the S. In the period April 2007 to February 2013, all my bikes were left to gather dust in the garage.
This came about because in April 2007 I was involved in a rather horrifying (well to me it was horrific) industrial accident, when a 4 ton steel plate peeled off an electric/magnetic powered crane and hit me, crushing my upper left leg. Four operations and 44 months were to pass before I took my first step without the aid of crutches. Twenty-one days later, I was involved in a road accident, this time shattering my lower left leg. Three more operations and another 14 months were to pass before I was again able to walk without crutches.
That same day I managed to cautiously push out and gingerly ride my BMW R26. The open road was calling. Regrettably it only lasted 3km (1.8 miles) before exhaustion and pain saw me make a U turn and head back home. Three weeks later, carrying a
In October 2015 I successfully managed to wean myself off all the morphine medication. In January 2018 I successfully was able to walk quite a distance without the walking stick.
In October 2018 at a T junction stop sign I was hit from the back by the following vehicle and pushed into the oncoming traffic. The bike, a K 1100 RS, toppled over and as I was being ejected my right leg got pinned down, bringing me to a sudden stop. Unfortunately the left leg kept on moving and hit the handlebars, again fracturing the left knee cap.
So, in other words, a bike falls and the right leg takes the full weight and nothing happens. The left leg comes into contact with the handlebars and itís ouch time. Unlike the previous two accidents no operation was required, as the fracture was already held by the previous accidentís hardware.
KaTie and I have happily crossed the highways of Australia. Apart from two punctures in one afternoon, (a nail and a piece of barb wire) never, on any trip had the bike ever broken down requiring transportation. We have travelled in a South to North and East to West direction in up to + 48 C (118°F) and down to -4°C (24°F). We have crossed flooded creeks, ploughed while slipping and sliding through mud and slush. We saw service in urban conditions, enjoyed high speed country running, even removed breakable items before being raced in club events (the racing pipes are still there, not noisy but quite authoritative). It has also been a test bed for evaluation of Continental tyres and an Australian Motorcycle News magazine comparison road tested against a new R 100 S when it passed the 160,000km (100,000 mile) mark.
Stripped for club racing.
FRANK HISTORY
It is a tribute to the excellence of the machine that after wearing out approximately 39 back and 31 front tyres there is nothing I would like to change on it and no area in which it has disappointed me.
There are far too many memorable trips but a couple do stand out. Excluding a 3 hour stop due to incredible thick blinding fog, the longest ever non-stop run was 2050km (1273 miles), Darwin to Mt. Isa 1601km (1000 miles), Canberra to Adelaide 1205km (748 miles) plus the yearly two day run to a bike rally, a mere 15 hour 2448km (760 mile round dash).
We have over the years been pulled over by the police and booked: for speeding, what else? We have even pulled the police over when we got lost or sidetracked; in other words when we were geographically misplaced.
There have been a number of close calls. The most frightening was a car cutting me off as it entered a dual carriageway. I jumped on the brakes and was close enough to see which station his car radio was tuned to. We didnít crash but that was nothing more than a case of good luck rather than good managementÖ or as a mate stated, KaTie took over, saved the day and I got the credit. It is the most neutral handling bike I have ever owned. It does nothing outstanding yet does everything asked of it.
For touring I use a longer-range fuel tank so I can switch on to reserve at 520 and second reserve at 535klm (332 miles). At one stage I added racks over the barrels to carry more gear. Twin driving lights powerful enough to fry any wayward kangaroo help me see during high speed runs at the death of night. At one stage I installed an extra clutch spring to handle any slippage in the Australian Outback dirt/mud tracks.
One of the attractions of the bike is the relative simplicity of the motor allowing for home maintenance, which
February 1981.
Transporting boat oars.
Long range tank.
outfit until I matched a Yamaha Bolt to a replica Steib chair. Still, the Beemer outfit covered a lot of miles and was
find any photos, so you’ll have to settle for one of the Bolt.
leads were replaced following a mysterious misfire. Of the four indicator globes, the front right was replaced; the remaining three indicator globes are still original. The instrument cover too was replaced due to fatigue cracks in the mounting area. The seat, following a split, was re-upholstered.
Inspection of the big ends and gudgeon pins revealed they were as snug as the day they were fitted.
The timing chain has been replaced
replaced with Koni units at 160,000km
me and my riding. Both bikes I bought
proof that marketing hype works! Both
At 250,000km (155,000 miles) the clutch was replaced. At the same time due to bore wear, it was cheaper to replace rather than overhaul the carburettors. At 413,000km (256,600 miles) the gearbox oil presented metal filings. The first input gear and fifth output gear were replaced as they were clearly worn; the other gears were quite satisfactory. While the gearbox was apart, as a precaution, the bearings were also replaced.
The fairing screen was replaced following the bike dropping off the side stand. Come summer and the fairing was removed especially when touring out into the Outback. (That was the reason one of the front indicator globe was replaced, I bloody stepped on it when removing the fairing).
The mufflers, when they rusted, were replaced with aftermarket racing ones. The brake disc rotors were also replaced with floating ones as wear had etched substantial grooves in the platesí surface.
As I write this the bike has covered over 444,947km (276,464 miles).
No, even though a number of riders I know want to buy it, thereís no way Iíll sell good old KaTie.
On the electrical side excluding globes and bulbs and other consumables, the indicator relay has been replaced 3 times and alternator stator once. The coils and hi-tension
As I said I ëclickedí with this bike, I felt comfortable on it even before I arrived home after the initial purchase. Having now been with me for 44 years I can safely say that weíll be together forever. D
chugging through the countryside. Both Let it be known, BMW have pretty
On the open road.
RATED 4 OUT OF 5 HELMETS
Wilson St, Nockatunga
(watch out for taxiing planes)
T: 07 4655 4317
@NoccundraHotel
FB: Noccundra Hotel
JUST MAYBE IT’S A re昀氀ection on my early life that the 昀椀rst time I heard the saying, ‘pros and cons’ I thought it referred to prostitutes and con-men, or maybe convicts. Dad soon set me straight and explained that the leeches living off the earnings were bludgers, not con-men but I retained a fascination with scammers, fraudsters, grifters and the like.
In distasteful admiration I read Ned Polsky’s landmark “Hustlers, Beats and Others” when it came out in 1969 and marvelled at the unbridled gall and absence of his subjects to any remorse or empathy for the ‘marks’.
Polsky wrote of the deviant dealings of Americans and he had wide and fecund 昀椀elds to harvest but he might just as well’ve chosen Australia coz
we’ve had more than our share of charlatans and swindlers.
The best known is probably a butcher from Wagga Wagga who went by the names of Thomas Castro and Arthur Orton but who claimed to be Richard Tichborne, heir to a massive fortune in England but who’d disappeared in a shipwreck in 1854.
The case of the ‘Tichborne Claimant’, as he came to be known, scandalised society and was major news for years. He even convinced Lady Tichborne that he was her son, but couldn’t convince the courts.
Then a bit over a century later we had the execrable Peter Foster, selfdescribed as an ‘international man of mischief’ with his weight reducing tea scams that enmeshed the wife of
the British Prime Minister, Tony Blair and netted him an affair with English topless model, Samantha Fox.
Then there was Johann Friedrich Hohenberger who got himself a job with the National Safety Council of Australia (NSCA) Victorian Division in 1977 and who was given a top level security clearance and almost unlimited access to RAAF bases despite having no birth certi昀椀cate or passport or proof of identityhe was born in Germany.
He systematically ripped off everything he came into contact with and when he was busted, and the charges laid out, the total 昀椀gure he’d managed to rort was $296,662,436.99. Try to get your head around that: a quarter of a bill!
But all these shonks eventually ended up in the slammer or worse. Johann topped himself shortly before his trial was due to start but Thomas/Arthur/Richard Orton/ Castro/Tichborne was sent down for 14 years and Foster was jailed in Australia, England, USA and Vanuatu.
But one of our greatest shysters, Andrew “the Black Prince” Hume, had a different career trajectory. He conned his way OUT of prison.
Hume was born in the Scottish borders in 1830 but migrated to NSW and grew up in the Hunter region where apparently he spent a lot of his time learning bushcraft from the local aboriginals before heading out into the interior in 1848.
In 1866 he was busted at Baradine for an armed robbery a few years prior and was given a ten year stretch in Newcastle gaol. It was there that he told his shackled mates and screws that during his time in the heart of what’s now Qld, he’d come across a white fella who was living with the
aboriginals deep in the outback.
The fate of Ludwig Leichhardt and his doomed party of 1848 had trans昀椀xed the imagination of the nation and when word got out about Hume’s story, the NSW government had him interviewed.
Hume reckoned he’d found blazed trees with “LC 1847” and “LC 1848” and a saddlebag with papers, a quadrant and a telescope, all of which he’d buried and was sure he could 昀椀nd again.
The heavies ignored many discrepancies in Hume’s story, released him from goal, gave him a saddled horse, a revolver with some ammo and twelve quid and then put him on a boat north.
Eventually Hume returned
claiming he’d found Leichhardt’s skeleton in a hollowed tree and carrying a satchel containing | a telescope and a 75 page journal which the survivor, who’d refused to leave his indigenous mates, had written about the failed expedition.
But damn, the day before he was due to present this evidence to his government backers, the dingo ate his homework – Hume claimed he found the satchel cut open and the contents stolen.
Not a problem. Another backer was found and Hume headed back north. He headed up through Cunnamulla then west to Thargomindah then out to Nockatunga where he rested before making a 昀椀nal, fatal decision to turn south rather than west-north-west to Cooper Creek.
And on this brilliantly clear evening with Venus heralding new darkness, I sit outside the Noccundra pub, perched at the edge of Nockatunga
Station and beside the obelisk with its recognition of Hume’s presence here 146 years ago. I cleanse my throat dust with a chilled beer and wonder at the chutzpah, the brazenness and the mortal stupidity of Andrew Hume.
Old mate, you conned your way out of prison, why not just disappear?
Over at the billabong the caravans are making themselves comfortable but I need some night shots so I throw my tent beside Super Ten at the edge of the road beside the bike – out of the way of the trucks and vans and the choppers which regularly drop in. There’s also an issue with light plane pilots who like taxiing up from the airstrip at the end of the side-street and parking out front.
In the early 2000s Neil and Margaret were based in the Adelaide Hills when Neil hooked a job at the Jackson Oil Field about 40km north west of
Noccundra as either a diesel mechanic or a painter. You can ask him just which it was when you see him. Margaret, a registered scrub nurse would come visit each year when Neil had annual holidays and they both liked the pub and the bush and they started 昀椀guring a change might do ‘em good.
Nockatunga Station bought the land where the pub stood in 1915 and took over the license and by 2012 the station and the hotel were owned by Packer’s Consolidated Pastoral. Neil and Margaret got chatting with the bloke running the pub and this led to them taking over the license
in October 2012.
Things went well and in 2015 they purchased the freehold and for the 昀椀rst time in 101 years the pub was being operated by its owners.
Neil and Margaret and their daughter Sarah run it with the help of Shannon, a young woman from the Illawarra who worked a year on Nockatunga learning how to tell the difference ‘between a boy cow and a girl cow’ and cooling off swimming in turkey nests.
Now she’s pretty much the pub ‘rousie’ doing everything from bar work to helping the diesel mechanic
or the painter with 昀椀xing the faulty plumbing around the place.
Most riders who lob out here camp down beside the waterhole but there’s 10 dongas around the back with a mixture of doubles, twins and singles and a lone rider’ll cough up $74 for the night.
But if you’re bringing a large group and arrange things ahead, the 昀氀oor of the shire hall which’ll 昀椀t 40 with comfort, can be yours for $50 all up.
The road to the Noccatunga Pub is now fully sealed from both Thargomindah and Eromanga, but that doesn’t mean it’s all above water when the 昀氀oods come and the place gets isolated at least once a year.
“But the 昀氀oods have helped us get through Covid,” Margaret explains, “we always squirrel money away for when we’re cut off and this pandemic is a bit like being marooned only it’s by a virus and not by water.”
A steady trickle of vans pulls up as the afternoon ebbs: mostly hardcore and involved travellers out here in the red heart rather than the skimmers who congest the coast and less hostile climes, and their demographic is changing.
“We’re getting more younger travellers who’re wearing quality fabric coming through. We’re seeing more Goretex and merino base-layers.”
Which Neil and Margaret welcome, “because these are not the people who’ll steal your toilet paper and your ashtrays and anything else that’s not tied down.”
There’s no draught beer here, but there’s a decent selection of very cold stubbies and cans, ranging from $6.50 to $8 but if you’re the sort of person who drinks champagne in Champagne, eats cheddar in Cheddar and rides Route 66 in your 67th year, it’s gotta be a Coopers, eh?
There’s lunch and dinner on seven days plus coffee in the morning, served through a barn door at the side of the pub.
The bar area itself is sparse and basic but the thick sandstone walls keep the place cool. If you’re much over 5 foot, you’re going to have to duck to get through the short old doorways. The stones apparently were brought from Sth Aust and when I go to tell Neil which pub this reminds me of, he beats me to the punch. Yes, it’s very redolent of the heritage-listed pub at Overland Corner at North West Bend of the Murray. Andrew Hume was a terrible drunk. Leaving Sydney on his second and 昀椀nal trip his backer had to drag him out of the pub at Murrurundi after a threeday bender and push him north.
He made his fatal decision to turn south at Noccundra just 8 years before this pub was built. As a road train that’s come across Innaminka pulls up outside, I can’t help but wonder what would’ve happened if instead of red dirt and dry river beds he’d found a sandstone pub out here.
I’m betting he’d have stayed because there’s a lot of pros to this hotel, and not too many cons.
Pros and Cons
Not 30 minutes after I pressed the ‘Save’ on this yarn, my news feed reported that Peter Foster had been arrested on the beach in FNQ on charges of fraud.Ah, in this timeless land it’s somehow comforting that some things even the human algal bloom of such scum such as him, remain a constant.
A 昀氀ip through TripAdvisor, that resort of the opinionated and too often the entitled and the cowardly soon shows the polarising nature of the Noccundra Hotel.There are as many 1 star ratings as there are 5s and a relaxed time here chatting with the crew makes just why this is so, very obvious.
Everyone who dropped in during my two days here was pleasant but rock up with attitude, righteousness and spreading shade and grief and you’re going to get it back in spades (and probably shovels).
But no-one could remember a single bad experience with riders.Turn up on two wheels and you’ll be welcomed like the mob of 50-100 they were expecting the day after I left.
“Bike riders have simple needs,” says Margaret,“cold drinks, decent food and good company with welcoming hosts.And they either kip down early or they seem to not sleep very much at all, but they always respect what we have here.”
Hard to rate outpost pubs such as this but it’s a safe 4 helmets. Full marks on the ‘Unique Character’ scale and value for money, given its remoteness (nearby pubs have cheaper drinks) was around 110. Certainly in the top bracket of pub experiences I’ve had in 2020. D
AWESOME DESTINATIONS #1
The Rockies
WORDS RICHARD MILLINGTON IMAGES MOTORRAD TOURS
WHEN IT COMES TO places around the world to ride motorcycles, there are so many possibilities for epic riding, sensational scenery and fascinating culture. To help you pick through them and inspire you to get out and find your ultimate riding adventure, we’ve compiled destination guides for some of the best places in the world to ride your or a rented bike.
To kick off a series about stunning places to ride bikes, we
needed somewhere wild, somewhere vast that makes you feel a million miles from civilization, somewhere with a good balance of gravel and asphalt roads, set against a gnarly mountain backdrop.
We should have just started alphabetically, because Alaska and, more importantly, the Rocky Mountains fit the bill nicely. Frontier towns, mountain passes and the most remote places you’ll ever visit by road or trail. Isolation takes on
a new meaning after riding through miles of landscape populated by nothing more than trees, mountains and wild animals.
It is long journeys across wilderness like this that make rolling into a classic wild-west style frontier town with clapboard houses and saloons feel so special. To back up the wildlife, scenery and wilderness, the mountain passes of the Canadian Rockies have enough apexes to exhaust even the most corner-hungry rider.
The roads
Whether sealed or gravel, the roads tend to be wide, well maintained and enjoyable. You will inevitably end up doing some big-distance days due to the size of the place, but the roads in these parts are built for covering distance.
The Going To The Sun road in Glacier National Park is an absolute must-ride; eighty kilometres of winding mountain pass in a stunning national park. Carefully built to blend into the rocky landscape, this is one of the highlights of riding a bike in the Rockies. The Top of the World Highway is another must ride route. From Chicken this dirt road route takes you along mountain ridge lines into Canada and across the Yukon by ferry into the heart of Dawson.
Other drivers are generally very courteous, law-abiding Americans and Canadians, a number of big-rig logging trucks and touring motorcycles. There is a reasonable police presence and they do like to keep a check on speeding. Theyíll also ask you at the border crossing whether youíre carrying drugs or guns ñ just remember that sarcastic answers are only funny until you get strip-searchedÖ
The weather
As with most mountain regions, you need to pick your time of year wisely
ñ the riding season in the Rockies is pretty short, running from June to September. Some of the Heli-Ski Lodges remain open after the snow is gone and are great places to stay when youíre up in the mountains.
The border crossing and the road itself on the brilliantly-named Top of The World Highway are closed from September to May, so even if you tough out the snow and the cold, youíll be stuck waiting for the border to open anyway.
The best places to visit
To be frank, much of what makes riding in the Rockies special is the wilderness, the feeling of being properly in the middle of nowhere staring at stunning scenery, so destinations to visit centre around that theme. Obviously there are some cracking tick-box stops you should visit, some like the UNESCO-listed Head-Smashed-In-Buffalo-Jump are worth it just for the name.
Another good touristy-spot to hit up is the Signpost Forest at Watson Lake ñ started by a homesick soldier in the forties who put a sign up to show the direction and distance to his home town. The trend caught on and now the various signposts span a couple of acres.
To make sure you hit
all the scenic highs, check out Salmon Glacier, Bear Glacier and pretty much any of the National Parks; for wildlife and scenery you really are spoilt for choice. When you do feel the need to come in from the woods, the frontier towns like Dawson and Hyder are a proper step back in time. Weíre talking long bars, sippiní whiskey, saloon doors and the uncontrollable urge to swagger in and do your best John Wayne impression. The hospitality will blow you away. Thereís no sitting alone at a bar ñ everywhere you go someone will have a story to tell, an experience to share or a guitar to break out and sing songs around a fire with you.
The bits to avoid
The snow. Donít go in winter, itíll be the worst motorcycling holiday ever. Stick to the riding season and you really canít go wrong in the Rockies. There is so much stunning scenery and so much good hospitality youíll have a blast wherever you end up.
The food
Cinnamon buns. The perfect road snack along the journey is a homemade cinnamon bun washed down with a coffee ñ the best of which can be found at Johnsonís Crossing ñ one of very few fuel and cafÈ stops on the Al-Can highway that remains open all year round. Try one of their giant cinnamon buns, you wonít be disappointed, but give the sugar rush a chance to calm down before you hit the next bit of road.
Evening meals are everything youíd expect from North America ñ big, meaty and, well, American. But as well as the enormous portions, steaks and burgers, there are a few surprises to be had along the way. Like wandering the dirt streets of a proper old frontier town, Dawson City, expecting to see John Wayne riding into view,
but instead finding a Greek restaurant called the Drunken Goat.
Everybody has a great recommendation for the ‘best fish and chips in the World’, but the Seafood Express in Hyder where they cook in the afternoon what they caught in the morning is hard to beat.
Our favourite bit
of Stewart is beautiful and any night spent there is a good one.
For the combination of big distances, quality roads and epic scenery, it really is hard to top riding in The Rockies. You get a great glimpse into the past in the clapboardtowns of Dawson and Hyder, surrounded by locals so friendly you’ll want to move in.
The winding tarmac roads are mesmerizing, snaking through the scenery blessing every apex with good camber and plenty of grip. The gravel roads follow the same well-cared-for pattern making them a joy to blast along in all but the wettest conditions.
There’s always something on a trip that makes a place stand out, one little snapshot memory that feels like it sums up the whole adventure. For us, this has to be staying at the Ripley Creek Inn in Stewart. This fascinating accommodation is made up from restored historic buildings including our personal favourite, a former brothel. Right on the Canada/ US border, surrounded by mountains and forests, the riding into and out
Take a big bike, take your time and keep an eye out for bears and cops. And bears dressed as cops. Or is that the other way around? D
MANY WAYS TO THE Big Eye there are,î said Yoyo (Yodaís bikie brother).
ìRide them all you cannot. Of the Highway Patrol you must beware.î
He was right, of course, on all counts. He had been along on a ride along the Golden Highway to the Black Stump, testing half a dozen of the then-current big cruisers, when were pulled up by a NSW Police officer, by his stripes a sergeant. He was checking exhaust compliance (this was when you had to have noise levels stamped on the pipe) and couldnít come to terms with the fact that the muffler on my bike was original.
ìYouíve put a custom pipe on this bike.î
ìNo, sorry, this is how it comes from Honda.î
ìNo itís not.î
ìYes it is,î I said, feeling as if Iíd become trapped in a Monty Python sketch.
ìWhere is the compliance information, then?î I donít even remember what the bike was, but the information was hidden by
a large heat shield. I didn’t know that, unfortunately. “If it doesn’t have the information on it it’s not standard.”
“I’m really sorry. It’s…” I was about not say ‘It’s not my bike’ when I realised that that could open another can of worms. I didn’t have the rego papers. “It’s… brand new.”
He gave me a penetrating glare and moved on to the next bike. “You’ve got a custom pipe on this bike.”
“Noise information here is,” said Yoyo. “See it you can.”
This went on until he had examined all the bikes, when he waved us on. A weird experience in a weird place; some stretches of the Golden Highway do look like 昀氀ying saucer country. It’s great for a ride if the Highway Patrol isn’t being silly.
I asked a friend of mine in the Force (the police one, not the other one) about this later.
“You say he was a sergeant, out enforcing motorcycle exhaust regs out in the mulga?” he asked, incredulous. “Ah. That man had done something very bad, and his boss had said to him ‘Get out of my sight... go and check motorcycle noise
out on the highway!’”
Anyway, this where the story really starts. At a time like this, restricted to NSW (assuming you live in NSW, of course) and just a few infections away from a lockdown you might be hanging out for some suggestions for rides. In this article I’ll suggest some, all with the same starting point and destination but with greatly varying routes and distances.
Going direct (with a stop at the Black Stump)
Head west from Sydney along the Western Motorway, climb the Blue Mountains scarp and continue via Katoomba and Blackheath to Lithgow. Bypass this pretty hamlet and continue along what is now the Great Western Highway for a little way before turning left to turn right for Mudgee. This is a lovely road and you will not only cross the Great Divide (by means of a very small hill) but pass through pleasant places like Cullen Bullen, Running Stream and Cudgegong. Well, when I say pleasant I mean… not unpleasant. This is now the Castlereagh Highway, not to be confused with
Castlereagh Street in Sydney. It takes you on to Gulgong – always worth a stop for a coffee. Continue to the juncture with the Golden Highway, where you want to turn right and almost immediately left again for Coolah. You are on the Black Stump Way here, which will give you a clue as to what awaits you not far past Coolah. Yes, it’s the Black Stump of ballad and legend, complete with a little picnic area. It is actually not very convincing, but then neither are the Big Banana or the Big Prawn. Stop and pay your respects before continuing and turning left on the Warrumbungle Way to Binnaway and Coonabarabran. Siding Springs Observatory, the home of the Big Eye, is another 46 kilometres away.
Dawdling (with a stop at the Black Stump)
Leave Sydney as above, but turn left at the Tourist Information Centre in Glenbrook and have a coffee at the cafÈ on the right in the main street. Thatís what we tend to do. They have pretty good cakes. Back on the road as above, but turn left just before Lithgow at Old Bowenfels and cruise around the bottom of Lake Lyell to Sodwalls and on to Tarana on a narrow and bumpy but enjoyable road. There are two roads from here towards Bathurst. Take the
TRAVEL
northern one, it is more interesting. When you reach the Oberon Road turn right and then left at the highway. The Big Gold Panner will be on your right before you turn right for Sofala. This is another excellent bike road. Through Sofala, or actually just past, and on to Ilford on the Castlereagh Highway where you turn left and pretty soon right again for Kandos with its small but amazing motorcycle museum and Rylstone, another thoroughly pleasant place. We like the Globe Hotel here. Continue north and take the left turn to Lue with a pub that’s popular with dirt bike riders. Yet another terri昀椀c bike road will take you to Mudgee. Take the Ulan road and continue through Turill (if you can 昀椀nd it) to the Golden Highway. A left and then a right onto the Vinegaroy Road will take you to Coolah, whence you continue to the observatory as above.
Sportin’ Life (with a stop at the Black Stump)
Very simple, this one. Take the Putty Road north then turn left into the Wallaby Scrub Road just past Bulga. Left again at Warkworth into the Golden Highway and follow that through Cassilis to that same Vinegaroy Road to Coolah. Proceed
as above. You will be able to, as they say “hook it” for much of this ride but of course you will always stay within legal limits. Whatever they might be.
Should you feel that this is all too simple and short (as is life for so many of us), turn left just before Sandy Hollow onto the Bylong road, cross the mighty Hunter River by way of the hugely excessive iron box bridge and continue to Bylong and then to the Mudgee/Ulan road on highly enjoyable back roads. Turn right there and, once again, proceed as above.
Western wander (with or without a stop at the Black Stump)
Go west, young person, as far as the Mudgee turnoff past Lithgow. Do not take the turnoff but continue to Bathurst. The Authorities have a speed thing along here on an otherwise delightful road which checks how long it took you to cover the distance and therefore how fast you were going. Far be it from me to suggest you should attempt to sabotage this worth effort, but you can always stop just before the second camera and have a smoke, should you be a smoker.
A policeman told me this.
Practically still in Orange, take the Burrendong Way on the right and continue along this highly enjoyable back road to Wellington, where you
can turn right to Gulgong over yet another enjoyable road before turning left toward the Golden Highway juncture or carrying on to Ulan and the other one.
Alternatively, you may wish to leave Orange to the west on the Escort Way, a road whose salacious name does not match reality, at least in my experience, and then turn right into the Henry Parkes Way which leads, by way of Manildra and Bumberry (who made up the names out here?) to Parkes itself.
A right turn onto the Newell Highway sees you on your way to Dubbo past the Parkes Radio Telescope, which is well worth a stop. In Dubbo, pick up the Dunedoo Road. Once you reach that town, a left turn will see you on the Castlereagh Highway again. In Mendooran, turn right where the highway turns left and take 昀椀rst Yalcogran Street and then Tooraweenah Road over the Castlereagh River bridge. Turn right into Mendooran Road and follow the pleasant gentle curves to the Oxley Highway, where you turn right again for Coonabarabran and then left for the observatory. You can take on the routes past the Black Stump on the way home. One day I’ll write about the gravel route. It’s a corker! D
ELECTRIC DISCO
Super Soco
TC Max
THE BEAR TESTED
THE electric Super Soco
TC Max a coupe of issues ago but weíve now taken delivery of the same bike as a long termer.
I opted to be the test mule and Iím going to try and use the Super Soco as much as a regular bike as I can. It has already meant Iíve had to push the bike a couple of kilometers, but that will teach me for trusting how much electric technology has advanced since my last foray into this territory.
I have had a bad run with electric bikes over the years, it started off with the Vectrix. I believed the importerís claims and paid the price by having to push this rather heavy bike a handful of kilometers before I could plug it in!
Then came the Zero electric bikes, which never really got very far ñ especially compared to the claims being made.
Roll on to the new Super Soco and everything Iíd learnt about electric bikes and them chewing power and significantly reducing the range you might see on the dash went out the window and I ended up having to push the Super Soco to our good friends at D Moto as that was the ëclosestí power point to where I was. It might sound like Iím bagging the Super Soco from my first ride,
but Iím not ñ you need to have a different mindset from riding a petrol powered motorcycle and realise the way it functions is far different.
Once I got the Super Soco home I could give it a proper charge, which takes around nine hours. On Power mode 1 (the least amount of power) the range was indicating about 120km. Trouble with this low power mode is youíre only doing about 50km/h max ñ not good for many of the roads I ride on. So, switching to Power mode 2 the indication was 85 odd kilometers ñ not bad, that would get me to where I want to go most days, but the return trip could be a little iffy as a 15km ride chewed up 40km of range.
This results in having to switch between Power 3 and 2 as you ride. Power 2 takes the TC max up around 80km/h. Power 3 chews the most and goes the fastest ñ the indication was around 50km. I know from experience (when I switch my brain on) that an indication will turn out to be more like 35km. However, this is the whole reason we opted to give an electric bike a whirl ñ to find out just what it’s really like. Letís burn some coal and whiz around silently.
Stay tuned for more electrifying thrills next issue. SW
KITSUNE II GETS SOME GEAR
SW-Motech Legend Gear
Tank Bag LT1, magnetic and straps, 3 to 5.5 litres, black or brown ñ $153.
SW-Motech Legend Gear Tail Bag and Backpack LR1, straps, 17.5 litres, black or brown ñ $268.
MOTORCYCLING IS A NATIONAL obsession in Germany. Not only that, but itís becoming more so ñ at least if you go by the amount of money riders spend. A couple of decades ago and for quite a few years, the biggest-selling bike in Germany was the distinctly mid-sized and cheap Suzuki parallel twin, the GS500. Today it is the BMW R 1250 GS, a GS of quite a different size and in a rather higher cost bracket. It is no surprise then that Germany also has a number of large accessory firms who distribute high-quality products to feed that motorcycle market. One of these is SW-Motech, founded in 1999 and with its headquarters in Rauschenberg in Hesse as well as another plant in the Czech Republic. When I was looking for luggage for our long-term project bike Kitsune II, I found that SWMotechís Legend Gear series had just the right semiclassic look to suit the bike.
The bike is not intended
to do long distance touring duties, so all I wanted was a seat bag and a small tank bag just large enough to hold my camera and a spare lens. The seat bag was to carry a bit of shopping, some books and my laptop or a wet weather suit; all the stuff you carry around the city. This meant that Motech’s three to 昀椀ve litre expanding tank bag LT1 and 17.5 litre Tail Bag and Backpack LR1 looked to be just the right size.
That’s how they turned out to be, too, once I collected them from Australian SW-Motech importer Motorrad Garage. Without being gimmicky, the company’s unique system of elastic straps and strong aluminium hooks makes the gear versatile and secure once it is 昀椀tted to
the bike. The company says that they were “inspired by recent customizing trends and tactical gear” and that the materials, synthetic napalon leather and waxed canvas “support the vintage look and combine function and durability”. Function is excellent, and the bags certainly look and feel durable.
The tank bag not only has a remarkably light but effective magnetic base but also comes with a full complement of straps for tanks made of anything other than steel. There is
provision to feed a cable into the bag. It also has what SW-Motech calls a “tankfriendly base” as well as a rainproof cover and can be carried either by its handle or by a separate shoulder strap attached to a couple of loops when I’m off the bike. I’m beginning to think of it as my camera bag.
The tail bag with its backpack straps in a pocket on the bottom has that roll-top closure that has become the most popular style and that has always worked well for me. It also has a back pad which has a laptop pocket integrated with it. The bag will 昀椀t sideways or along the seat with its almost innumerable attachment points for the straps. There is no rain cover, and I presume that’s because it is rainproof. I’ve only had it out in a couple of light showers, but it’s certainly been dry inside. Clever elastic loops keep the free ends of the straps from 昀氀apping.
I’m seriously impressed by SW-Motech quality. The bags are made in Vietnam, but the standard is everything you would expect from a German product – and they were designed and developed “at home” in Rauschenberg, Germany.
Products were supplied by the manufacturer for evaluation.
SW-Motech is distributed in Australia by Motorrad Garage, who also have a huge range of other brands. They have shops in Perth and Sydney, and you can 昀椀nd out more at motorradgarage.com.au or from info@motorradgarage.com.au PT
SPAIN HAD BEEN CALLING for too long. Although I had visited three times, none had involved motorcycling. I love the food and the vibe, but it was the roads that needed exploring. I donít mind a bit of forward planning, so I set out a basic loop, mainly to work out the days required and kilometres to be covered. Important points because this time around after four overseas motorcycle rides with friends, this one was a first with pillions, Mickís wife on her first motorcycle tour!
Motorcycle touring is favourable to stopping and smelling the roses. To rest legs, butts and to refill, although as it would turn out I got to squeezing every kilometre out of the BMW R1200RT tank while still having some fun. The choice for Mick and Leanne was a Goldwing, both bikes rented though EagleRider in Madrid.
Unusually heavy rains had caused flooding the day before we arrived but with a plan that was always to kick off left or right, whichever, we decided that provided we could get through to the south we’d find the rain had already passed. It proved to be a good decision as we only used the rainsuits three times in the 14 days on the road. Accommodation and stop points were pure ìwe will see when we get thereî and itís not because we didnít appreciative them that we cannot share details of them all here; we had some wonderful stays and hosts and Spain is good value for money.
Our first night was in Quesa at Hotel La Rocha after a mix of highway and almost back lane roads, ideal to get a feel for the bikes on a mix of roads and not doze off on highways. Not far into the next morning we made a brief stop into Bodegas Enguera for some wine tasting before heading towards the coast. Much of the 475 kilometres that day were ëtransport stagesí shall we say but did take us to Alto de Velefique for a serious downhill curvefilled run. There’s a real need to hug corners tight, remembering where the panniers are, hoping a rock doesnít fall on your head, enjoy it but arrive alive.
Finana for the second nightís stay and almost a ghost town atmosphere when we tried the only hotel we could see, not comforted by the proprietor
more interested in unjamming a photo copier than booking in four guests he had not planned for. This is where my survivor level Spanish came in handy. Some patience and dialogue and we had rooms. The chef was called in, the food laid on and I took over the bar momentarily to select some different beers for us to try. Come next morning our host was truly sad to see us go. As with the night before the host(s) had never met Australians, nor an Indonesian ñ my partner Evi.
We covered 190 kilometres on the third day, ending in Granada. We got lost and separated trying to find the hotel, but we did work it out and are still unsure whether the police blockaded the ends of the lane only after two errant motorcycles went in and unloaded! It was a great day riding, twice over the Parque Nacional de Sierra Nevada with some impromptu devouring of bread, olive oil, olives, salt and salami in the
village of Canjayar. That set the tone for the nightís dinner which was a roundup of similar gourmet delights and a gathering on the roof top of the Hotel.
To Ronda, via Malaga on day four. It’s when you take the A-397 to head up into the mountains that your day is rewarded. Truly a great road and ride and if you ever go to Spain you must visit Ronda. As in many of the settlements of early European days, vantage points that allowed you to see who was coming were favoured. Spectacular and unique but we would go on to see so many villages that are memorable.
Memorable for the locals too as on day five we got lost in one and did three circuits through the small village square in a scene reminiscent of a movie. Some sweaty brows, and kudos to Mick for navigating a Goldwing through steep and narrow lanes. Juzcar is known as the Smurf village and sure
enough itís all blue and white paint. I imagine the local hardware store being confused initially because white is the norm for Spain! Add Zahara de la Sierra and Grazalema to great villages we would see that day before making a night of it in Arcos de la Frontera. Local Sherry and Olives make a good ësnackí and some live music draws the
locals. Ridiculously cheap night and wonderful atmosphere.
Back to a longer day on number six as we decided to cross into Portugal, having made good time so far without feeling we were pushing it. Another great destination where they do seriously good food and cater well for mine and Mickís love of good port, all the better when itís aged 25
years. Again, villages dominate the destination list with Marvao and Monsanto notable, but it was the ride coming down on the N22 to Pinhao and the Douro Valley that will forever see us want to go again. Hosts are so good that a booked-out hotel did the search for us on night eight and even asked the hotel to prepare a meal as we were arriving late. Obrigado (thank you)!
Day nine was our shortest day, just 60 kilometres. It was Mickís 60th birthday and we were going to celebrate it. Cannot thank the hotel enough for the ability to grasp a birth date when copying the passport for check-in and then organizing a birthday cake for after dinner. You can judge by now that we are loving the hospitality of this trip and we are in turn expressing our appreciation with sincerity. We made our way to the Picos de Europa in Spain over the next two days. Nothing overly memorable but as always great roads and great value for money. It was when coming through a tunnel on the AP-66 about 120 kilometres from Gijon where the scenery did an almost magical change. This was to be the start of three days of some of the most beautiful scenery one could ever want. And more good roadsÖ
Cangas de Onis for the night in the beautiful Hotel Imperion. By now it seems we had just ridden and eaten but we did a lot of walking, both during the ride days and after pulling up for the night. Itís a good balance and great to get some circulation going. My Falco boots were sadly on their last days on this trip but have always been favoured (by me at least) for being great when off the bike. Likewise, the Nolan N44, a move away from the flip front helmets I had always preferred. The breadth of vision is fantastic.
Mick and Leanne were loving their armchair ride on the Goldwing and Leanne was a convert for life to motorcycle touring. Meanwhile I was waxing lyrical about an R1200RT with 83,000 kilometres of rental rides that might have killed lesser bikes. I finally managed 500 kilometres from a tank and believe it or not still setting a more than healthy enough
pace to enjoy the ride. Its tractability is almost diesel like and I spend all day(s) in the 20004000-rpm range, just rolling on and off the throttle and using the torque. Evi is not complaining on the back and considers it both comfortable and safe, the latter perhaps because we never got pitched offline when we hit a depression on a 90 km/h curve. Safe, fast and frugal is the R1200RT.
Covadonga is the first stop for day twelve and a must see. Beautiful ride to a breathtaking mountainside series of buildings that like most of Europe keep you asking, ìhow the hell did they do this back thenî? From there itís more of Picos de Europaís amazing scenery at times taking us up via N-625 and down again to the Lake of Riano. You could spend days just in this area, although I must add itís here you need to really keep your wits about you as the sports bike riders have made it a playground. Fancy as they may look in their full race outfits, they are none too smart or respectful of the road width and other road users. You do see every make of bike, but when we started to see old and smaller capacity two strokes struggling up hills that we wondered what was motivating them. The Colombres Classic Motorcycle Rally! Lucked upon a bunch in a car park and just amazing to see the classics in use.
We spent the last two days riding back towards Madrid, with nights in Milagros and Segovia, where the Aqueduct that spans the city centre is yet another reminder of when you have no choice -- just find a way. It no longer carries water but certainly looks like it will stand for many years more as testimony to do it once, do it right.
Mission accomplished 4257 kilometres later, we returned the bikes to EagleRider and our minds are already planning the next trip. September has proved to be the right timing for this one, avoiding the heat of July/August but perhaps an element of luck in missing the rain that can begin around this time. We could redo the same route and be happy or do an alternate and still find superlatives. Do go, you will truly love it. D
T
C H N I C A L
Shopping tip
GIVE AEROSTICH
THIS IS THE DAWNING of the age, not of Aquarius but of internet mail order. Even before the beginning of the Covid Crisis we ordered a lot of stuff on line, but thatís just going to become more common. And donít be amazed by it all; there was a time here in Australia when country people at least ordered practically everything they bought from catalogues and had it delivered. As usual there is nothing truly new under the sun. Seeing that online mail order is here to stay, I thought Iíd just give my friend Andy Goldfine a shout-out. Andy has been running Aerostich in Duluth, Minnesota for longer than anyone can remember. Heís also been making the inimitable Aerostich Roadcrafter suits there for ever, and there are riders like exHonda MPE boss Stuart Strickland who still wear the one they bought all those many years ago.
Youíll have no trouble finding Aerostich on the web: aeros�ch.com will get you there. Keep in mind that shipping to Australia and possible tax are not cheap, but I like the quality. And as they say, youíll remember the quality long after youíve paid off the price!
Here are a few choices that might interest you. Check out the catalogue for more ideas. PT
The R-3 (Roadcrafter
3), the third generation one-piece Aerostich suit.
100% waterproof and unlined for maximum airflow, yet slips quickly and easily over your street clothes. Its fulllength waterproof zipper entry system is fast, and it doesnít flutter or flap in the wind. Without a lining it wears cooler, and with seamsealed rainproof zippers youíll also stay completely dry, even during the wettest conditions. aerostich.com/ suits/one-piecesuits/r-3-light
Elkskin gloves
Your favourite gloves. You just canít ride anywhere without them. When they finally wear out, it feels like youíve lost a friend. Made of natural tan medium to heavy weight elkskin, they are thicker, stronger and more abrasion resistant than deerhide and theyíll last much longer. Built for cowboy and ag work, theyíre tough enough for barbed wire fencing, yet sensitive enough to accurately handle a lariat. The snap cuff will slightly gauntlet over most jackets or close to let wind in your sleeves on a hot day. The left thumb is equipped with a visor squeegee made of resilient squeegee material. aerostich.com/ clothing/gloves/elkskin-and-deerskin-gloves/aerostich-elkskin-ropers.html
A TRY TR
Triple Digit Covers
Darien Light Jacket
An ultralight Darien Jacket and Pants would make a great urban riding tool (...we said to ourselves). So, we build them just this way, using a tough, HT200D Nylon GORETEX fabric. This lightweight Cordura-like material is far tougher than ordinary nylon fabrics of similar weight offer about a third less abrasion resistance than the regular Darienís stiffer 500D Cordura fabric. The Darien Light really comes into its own for commuting and general riding, especially in atrocious weather where it will flat-out work better than whatever you now wear. aerostich.com/ darienlight-jacket.html
AD1 Motorcycle Pants
The AD-1 is a fully seam taped, unlined, HT500 Denier Nylon three-layer GORE-TEX jeans-cut pant, with full length separating side zips. The outside zippers have full length inner and outer weather flaps to help the pants go on and off fast and keep rain and wind out. An Aerostich Money Belt (#1854) is included with these pants. Black, Grey or Tan. aerostich. com/ad1-motorcycle-pants-26.html
It is possible to enjoy warm, dry hands while being plastered and hammered and hosed. The thin ripstop nylon laminated fabric breathes enough during rain conditions so your skin wonít become clammy. The oversize gauntlets slide on easily and allow a secure grip when used over your regular (crash protective) gloves. aerostich.com/aerostich-tripledigit-covers.html
Short-Gauntlet Triple Digit Raincovers
If you prefer wearing raincovers under your sleeves, these work better and are easier to use. These are exactly the same design as the Triple Digit Raincovers (#442), without the extended gauntlet. aerostich.com/ aerostich-short-gauntlet-triple-digit-raincovers.html
U S E D & A B U S E D
THE PRESS RELEASE POPPED up from Oakley telling us that Dakar, Finke and all-round legend Toby Price was releasing a special edition pair of goggles. I was instantly onto the marketing people as I knew this would be hot property and I was right, they sold out in one day!
I was extremely lucky enough to get a pair and not only do they look awesome, the function and comfort of the Oakley Airbrake goggle is simply among the best Iíve ever worn.
Most motocross goggles are designed for motocross helmets, not adventure helmets so any goggle Iíve had in the past is a little bit of a compromise for the smaller opening of an adventure helmet. The Oakley Airbrake MX goggle fits perfectly in the opening of my Shoei adventure helmet and the foam seals nicely and comfortably against my face. No fine dust gets in, which is exactly how it should be.
The width of the Airbrake is excellent for perfect vision and
IAM WEARING A $449 shirt as I write this.And no, itís not a dress garment from Lazartigue. It is an item of motorcycle clothing and it comes from Vilnius, in Lithuania. Bear, I can hear you ask, are the Lithuanians such a wealthy folk that they can afford shirts costing near enough to half a gorilla?
Having done a little research I can tell you that they are not especially wealthy. But they do seem to be keen.
“Pando Moto [this is the firm that makes this shirt] was born in the minds of passionate motorcyclists who couldnít find a balance between looking good and feeling safe,î they say on their website.
ìSo we made one.î That may be a little complex grammatically, but you know what they mean.They also point out that ìMassmanufacturing works for some industries. Motorcycle Gear is not one of them.î
Ah! We are on the track of the reason for the expense.
ìSince 2011, Pando Moto has evolved into a premium motorcycle clothing brand, fusing European design and engineering with smart, safe technology.
doesnít restrict side vision like some other goggles do.
Although I havenít tested it out, the Airbrake MX goggle features high-impact resistance for when youíre chasing down anyone in front and they’re flinging up rocks – the lens is also the first ever MX design with a lens of pure Plutonite.
Oakley Switchlock Technology allows fast and easy lens changing and the lens is anti-fog treated. The nose guard is removable, the goggles come with tear-offs and while the Oakley Airbrake MX goggle costs a little more the comfort it gives is well worth it.
Tobyís special edition goggle feature a sand dune style wave on the band, a green and ëgoldí (yellow) ëOí Oakley logo, ëTPí initials on the rear, and orange frame referencing KTM and the lens is almost a ëburntí or smoked brown/orange.
These are all gone, but I highly recommend checking out the Oakley range for all your adventure riding. See your local bike shop or oakley.com.au SW
Our high-performance protective gear for motorcycles does the hard work, so you can focus on what matters.î
And what matters, apart from earning enough money to be able to afford the gear, really is quite clearly this confluence between looks and safety.As many photographers have found, it is not easy to make me look good but the Capo Riding Shirt has a damned close go. It is a slim fit, so they supplied me with a larger size than I would otherwise wear and the fit is good. It also feels good when youíre wearing it, a point that some safety gear seems to miss out on.The shirt has a lifetime warranty. All right, letís take a look at the technical details and see if the dollar wheel keeps spinning.The shirt is made of 12.5oz cotton and Cordura with 1.5% elastane.Thatís quite substantial material for a shirt. It includes SASTEC TripleFlex CE Level 1 elbow and shoulder armour which appears very much up to date, covers the Zone 1 (most important) contact patches and is slim enough to not look out of place
when installed. It has CE Level A riding garment certification and a pocket for an optional back protector. A Coolmax mesh comfort liner,YKK zip closure both for the front and under the arms and a snap-down collar are all practical touches.
The zip-up inside pocket is practical too, but the two outside chest pockets are open at the top. If you were to ride in the rain wearing the Capo, you would find that they’d fill up with water. Unless you get thirsty a lot on the road, this is not practical.Who knows, perhaps Lithuania is like Southern California and it never rains, but I have my doubts.About both places.
Donít get me wrong, I like this shirt (which is really kind of like a cross between a shirt and a jacket) a great deal and expect to be wearing it quite a bit. But I might have someVelcro strips sewn into the pockets so they close securely.
Pando Moto calls the Capo ìThe Perfect Urban Riding Shirt”, and it almost is. Letís face it, anything that can make me look good has style to spare.And
I’m quite satisfied with the claim for safety. Pando Moto claims the ìsame fibre technology used in military combat uniforms for over 40 yearsî which sounds good, and dares users to ìtry to wear them outî. TheVelcro patch on the left shoulder might be a remnant of military design; you can use it for a club patch. Apart from those pockets, the only criticism I have – and it is not specific about the shirt ñ is about part of the promotional material on the website. This shows someone being dragged along behind (I presume) a bike.Yes, youíve seen that before, havenít you. Draggin Jeansí Grant Mackintosh did that many years ago, and Iím surprised that a firm like Pando Moto which wants to be taken seriously would copy the stunt. So, is the shirt worth the price tag? In a world where we spend more than three thousand dollars on riding suits, sure it is. Especially since itís made to last. Pando Motoís website pandomoto.com will give you some more information and there is an Australian distributor, Rider Collective at ridercollective.com.au . PT
TURN ORANGE
KTM Powerwear
The current collection of KTM POWERWEAR has been upgraded and redeveloped to bring high quality and aesthetics to riders eager to complement their off-road, adventure or street motorcycles. So where better to choose the ideal gift for that someone special who loves the colour orange. Available at your local authorised KTM dealership ñ ktm.com.au
SW-MOTECH has enhanced the new Tiger 900 family in terms of luggage, safety and protection. For Tiger 900 variants GT Pro and Rally Pro, a harmonious accessory package has been put together, whether for the road or tough off-road trips.
In line with the sleek look of the Tiger 900, their practical PRO and EVO-series tank bags can be mounted onto the corresponding tank ring. Micro, Daypack, City and GS models are available for all Tiger models; they all offer clever storage for quick luggage access.
The removable PRO panniers give Tiger tamers a lot of creative leeway when choosing their luggage system. With the sturdy and waterproof TRAX ADV aluminum case system, youíre well equipped for the long journey ahead, including tough offroad use. Alternatively, you can install versatile SysBags, available in two sizes and made of durable ballistic nylon.
The Adventure Rack also fits on the tail of the new 900 Tiger and offers a large contact surface for additional luggage. With the URBAN top case system, GT and GT Pro riders in particular are ready for the road: plenty of space, lightweight and featuring
a sporty design. Tail bags from the EVO series offer countless storage options and also go well with the Tigerís sleek style. SWMOTECH also offers premium safety and protection accessories for the new Tiger 900. The specially designed 4mm strong aluminum engine guard offers solid protection against flying rocks and unwanted ground contact. When mounting onto the Rally version, the factory-installed crash bar must be replaced with the specially developed SW-MOTECH crash bar. The sturdy steel construction protects the Tiger 900 family reliably from major damage in the event of a fall. Slider sets for the frame for both the front and rear axles are also available.
The SW-MOTECH designers have developed custom-made centre stands for both the GT and Rally version. Together with the extension for side stand foot, the new Tiger models stand firmly, even on loose ground during breaks. Other accessories such as handlebar risers, EVO fog lights and high beams, mirror extensions, heel guards and chain guards complete the accessory package. See your local SWMotech dealer ñthat is motorradgarage. com.au in Perth or Sydney.
GREAT VALUE. GREAT FEATURES
Macna Aerocon jacket ñ from $329.95
The Macna Aerocon jacket introduces a style and functionality all its own. Ideal for warmer weather riding complete with CE protection and maximum breathability. With its outer shell made from tough 600D Ripstop Polyester Nylon and Polyester Mesh, this jacket is light and comfortable yet tough. It provides maximum air ventilation through the chest, sides arms and back areas for maximum summer riding comfort.
Despite its light weight, the AEROCON is full of safety features including RISC Level 1 ventilated CE shoulder and elbow armor with a CE back protector prepared pocket, pre-fitted with a 12 mm EVA foam back pad. The package is completed with a strong jacket hanger loop at the rear, expandable pockets, hand warmer pockets, internal waterproof pocket, arm adjustment tabs, elastic drawstring at the waist and a zip to connect the jacket to your riding pants. This jacket has been manufactured to meet or exceed the stringent new European CE safety standard EN17092 – not just the armor but the entire jacket.Another safety option is the Night-Eye version, featuring highly reflective night time visibility. All-in-all, the perfect Adventure Jacket for warmer weather riding. Available in menís sizes S to 3XL, in the colour options of Black or Night-Eye/Fluoro (for an extra $20) and available from all good motorcycle retail outlets - macnaridinggear.com.au
MR SMOOTH
Dunlop Roadsmart IV ñ Front from $215, Rear from $269
Committed to providing you with the ultimate touring experience, Dunlop has looked back to capture the essence of sport touring and looked forward to the innovation of a new standard. The new Roadsmart IV tyre is not only claimed to have increased longevity and mileage, but also advanced shock absorption technologyproviding you with the smoothest ride into a new era of sports touring performance. Available in most sizes, see your local Dunlop dealer or ficeda.com.au D
SUBSCRIBE THIS MONTH AND WIN
The UCLEAR Motion 6 System is built upon direct feedback from riders, dealers, and industry experts to introduce our most advanced Intercom system yet.
Up to 6 riders can be connected using the Motion 6ís full duplex DynaMESH intercom. No matter the sport, the weatherproof Motion 6 will enhance your ride while delivering crystal clear communications and powerful music on any road, in any weather. UCLEAR Motion 6 Bluetooth Communications unit RRP $359.95 Supplied by our friends at McLeod Accessoeries
All new gesture controlled commands will allow full control of the system without the press of a button!
W H A T S A Y Y O U ?
WE LOVE TO HEAR FROMYOU, the letters are among the most keenly read parts of the magazine. Please try and keep letters down to no more than 300 words. Then you can read many, not just a couple. We do reserve the right to cut them and, unless you identify yourself and at least your town or suburb and state, we will print your email address instead. Please address letters to contactus@ausmotorcyclist.com.au or Australian Motorcyclist Magazine, Suite 4b, Level 1, 11-13 Orion Rd, Lane Cove West NSW 2066 All opinions published here are those of the writers and we do not vouch for their accuracy or even their sanity.
LETTER OF THE MONTH
THIS MONTH, SIMON RAISES a valid point. Itís something we donít normally get involved in or think about ñ we tend to do our thing and get on with it, what others do is up to them. In fact, itís usually that the others copy some of the stuff we do, which is a compliment in a way.
Simon, for your letter, youíve won the awesome backpack and T-shirt from the awesome folk at NelsonRigg ñ please send us your postal address and shirt size. For all your travel needs, check out nelsonrigg.com.au.
AMM
DISAPPEARING
Stuart, I wish to raise a concern for motorcycling in this country. It has to do with the amount of motorcycle publications that are disappearing quick smart. There is only really you guys and AMCN left. AMCN is like a fish wrapper and not really worth the read, that leaves you guys to inform and entertain Australian motorcyclists (like how I used your name there?). I donít think life would be worth continuing if we didnít have you guys to read. As for ARR, the mag you and The Bear used to do, that is pretty much dead in the water, it is total rubbish. Sure, there are a number of websites out there but there is nothing, and never will be, like the feel of having a magazine in your hand, something you can read a little, put down and come back to when you want. Trying to do that with a website is a joke. I have noticed a number of advertisers (which you have mentioned yourself) have fallen off the radar at the moment. This is quite disappointing, they should be showing us what they have to offer ñ we shouldnít have to go searching for it ñ thatís why itís called, ìadvertisingî. I should know, as I used to be in the big bad world of advertising/marketing, itís plain and simple, advertising works and
BEER AND BIKES
those that donít get it need to get with the program. Sorry if I sound harsh, but not only do they need to show us what they have, but you guys run a business and want to make money ñ ad revenue brings that. I also understand the industry is pretty small in this country so supporting each other as you do with everything you put in the mag should also be backed up by some support from the industry themselves. I hope they read this to understand. Anyway, Iím sure youíve had enough of my carry on ñ live for the corners.
Hi Peter,
In reference to the Norton lager I believe the label is based on a picture of the brewmasterís (Paul Holgate of Holgates brewery and pub) father sitting on a Norton in the UK prior to coming to Australia in the ë60s... his father was an avid home brewer too... if you are ever riding through Woodend in Victoria itís worth a stop at Holgates Pub to have chat about some of the stories etc. Cheers, Phil
I canít wait, Phil. Iíve always loved Woodend and the roads around it. Cheers, The Bear.
Regards, Simon Cawley, McLaren Vale, SA
Hi Simon,
We donít really notice much about what the others do, but we have of course noticed mags disappearing. As for the advertisers it is a shame that some have stopped advertising, but covid has put some restrictions on some businesses; many are unsure of what to do. I can tell you the motorcycle industry hasnít had sales as good as they currently have in a very long time, in fact one manufacturer told me they havenít had sales as good since the brand came to Australia, many moons ago! That surely leaves a lot of coin in their pockets.
Cheers, Stuart.
UNLOCK THE GATES!
Hi Bear, Iíve been spending some time planning a few rides for when we get out of jail here in Vic. As a result I am looking into updating my Motorcycle Atlas, which Iím still using the third edition. I had discovered that the sixth edition is currently the most recent. The only thing is, I see that it has a publication date of 2015. That in itself isnít a deal breaker for meÖ butÖ Iím wondering could there be a new edition on the horizon? At $40+ I would hate to make the purchase only to see a new edition released shortly after. I hope you donít mind me contacting you like this. Also, while Iím at it, Iíd like to thank you for all your great work and inspiration, without which
I’m sure your legs look fine to the ones that care…your family. As for your bike not being a very good exercise machine, you better get an adventure bike and do some hillclimbs, that will get the muscles burning! - Cheers, Stuart.
I’m sure your legs look fine to the ones that care…your family. As for your bike not being a very good exercise machine, you better get an adventure bike and do some hillclimbs, that will get the muscles burning! - Cheers, Stuart.
I may not have taken up motorcycling. I even chose my beloved motorbike of 13 years (Sportster Custom) based on one of your reviews. Kind regards, Mark “Wilko”
I’m sure your legs look fine to the ones that care…your family. As for your bike not being a very good exercise machine, you better get an adventure bike and do some hillclimbs, that will get the muscles burning! - Cheers, Stuart.
Thank you for your comments, Mark, and kind regards to you! No need to worry about a new edition of the Atlas; Hema told me that they were changing their emphasis and there would not be any more. That’s a pity, but commercial reality is commercial reality. Cheers, The Bear.
PLANNED ATTACKS
Hi Bear,
they could join just join from where they are. Not even close to a face to face gathering but might be better than nothing.
Just a thought. Happy to help if I can otherwise over to you.
Peter H, Trooper 10
Attention Troopers!
‘Above’ you will 昀椀nd an interesting suggestion from Peter Hopper, #10. Can I get some feedback on this idea? My own success with conferenced calls has been just over zero, because Mrs Bear came in and helped me, but that’s no reason to dismiss this idea. Please let me know what you think.
Hi Bear/Stuart, FYI, I’ve (me and a few mates) actually just completed a 3 day ride from Noosa into western qld which was awesome, however what was pleasing was all the optimism on show in the small country towns and there were lots of bikes out and about too.
Steve S, Trooper 78
ISSUE 91
Stuart, Bear,
essential trips within the confines of the figures of the people that die daily from
essential trips within the confines of the figures of the people that die daily from reasons for the daily figures of these bushfires you do not get a break from it.
essential trips within the confines of the figures of the people that die daily from
Can we give some thought to a virtual event (Bear Army - Ed)? Each of us ride to a venue of our choosing (with reasonable access to the net by wi-昀椀 or mobile) planning to arrive at an appointed time and log on to a zoom meeting or the like and provide a brief ride report or you could make a state of the nation speech. Where troopers are in the same area they could arrange to ride together or apart. If they are in total lockdown
And while I’m asking, we have a lot of members – something like two thirds – who joined and then disappeared. May I ask if there is anything I can do that might get you to reconnect and maybe even come to an event, when they’re happening again? Membership is perennial, so you’ll always be a member - how about taking advantage of that and getting in touch?
Thank you all, and please stay safe.
Military Greetings, General Bear
The last issue, (number 91) was an absolute cracker. I loved both reviews on the Tiger and V-Strom. I also loved the oils article. No tell me, what is happening with your New Zealand tour? I’d love to be a part of it.
Thanks, Jim, Coffs Harbour, NSW
reasons for the daily figures of these bushfires you do not get a break from it.
Hi Jim,
reasons for the daily figures of these bushfires you do not get a break from it.
Great to hear you liked issue 91. As for the tour, we are extremely hopeful it will still go ahead. I have heard from the Burt Munro Challenge people they are going ahead, so we just need a travel bubble to open up between us and NZ. Your best point of contact
register your interest today! SEARCH "NOTHING BUT THE PUB" ON FACEBOOK
WHAT SAY YOU
for all the tour related info is to speak with the first-class people at Paradise Motorcycle Tours.
Cheers, Stuart.
MOTORRAD TOURS
Stuart,
Just a quick one. I have noticed the guy from Motorrad Tours has been writing a lot of stuff for you lately. I am really enjoying it and I guess his reasoning behind all of this is to get us to do a tour with him. I have his website earmarked and will be doing a tour with him once things get back to normal. Kind regards, William Smith
Hi William,
Sounds like great stuff, and we appreciate the effort Richard from Motorrad Tours is putting in.
Cheers, Stuart.
BLACK AND ROUND
Hi guys, I was interested to read your sport tyre tests. Iím sure they all have outstanding grip as you mention but Iím going to grab a set of the Bridgestone and see how they last. Iím hoping around 10,000km. I picked the Bridgestone as you mention theyíre
RETHINK
Hey Stuart, I read in the last issue how you got out for a ride with old work mates. Itís crazy how busy life can be at times and I think this whole covid bullshit has made a lot of people rethink how they live their lives. I certainly have and making much more time to connect with family and of course ride my motorcycle. I even went and bought a little project, a Honda CB750. Iím unsure if Iíll do a full restoration like youíre doing with the Z900, but a few more cold beers will make the final decision.
Cheers, John, Nth Qld
a bit softer in construction which I assume will make them a little more comfortable to ride on versus the other two.
Cheers, Alex
THANK YOU
Hi Stuart, You might remember we emailed a bit back and forth about me asking about what kind of bike might be suitable for me to buy? Well, after we narrowed it down I went and rode the MT07,
Hi John, Ooh, I like the CB750s. I did have a plan a few years ago to get a 1974 CB750 and make it concourse, but life changes. Good luck with yours and if you need any help finding parts or other info, the guy we share office with has restored quite a few CB750s.
Cheers, Stuart.
Z900 and MT09. I ended up buying the MT07, itís a cracker of a bike. Thanks again for all your help, Stuart. You made a hard decision pretty easy. If I can and you decide to print this, can I recommend your assistance to other readers, itís well worth talking to you.
Thanks, Marcus, Broadbeach, QLD
Hi Marcus, Well done and I’m glad I could give you a little bit of help. Cheers, Stuart.
ñ Spain, Portugal, Morocco, Europe and Thailand www.imtbike.com tours@imtbike.com
The guide to the stars - The whoís who in the zoo of motorcycle travel worldwide is what you’ll find here. Weíve travelled with many of them and know them all, so they come highly recommended. In alphabetical order, they are:
IF WEíRE GOING TO perpetuate motorcycling past the main generation that currently engages in it, namely the Baby Boomers, itís generally accepted that we are going to have to attract young riders. There are lots of terrific ideas around to do that, but maybe weíre missing the point ñ or at least one of them.
Parents introducing their kids to riding when theyíre young? Yep, good idea. Thatís how you foster racing champions, for one thing. But there are a lot of kids whoíd rather eat a raw cane toad than do what their parents want them to.
Discounts? That presumes that cost is a major concern for young people. Itís often suggested that it is, and the introduction of easily affordable motorcycles like Royal Enfield’s singles and twins has been seen as a solution here. But when I was getting into bikes, a desirable new motorcycle cost about the same as a family car. We just worked our butts off for the cash. Proportionately, motorcycles are cheaper now than ever. Free training? See the cane toad note above. The same sorts of refutations work for most of the other potential solutions. Many of the ideas are good ones and Iím sure they would work for a percentage of kids. But letís look at a completely different activity for a moment -- smoking.
Cigarette smoke is acrid at best, nauseating at worst when youíre not used to it. Not for health reasons, obviously, although here in Australia there used to be a cigarette brand that advertised itself (yes, they were allowed to advertise) as the brand recommended by doctors. No kidding; the Baby Boomersí early years were a wild and crazy time. Like me, chances are that you started smoking because it was something that the cool kids did. You put up with that awful taste and the retching behind the toilet block at school because it got you in with the group that set the standard for being hip and with-it, and above all rebellious. You suffered to gain acceptance, to be able to swagger
ìMANY KIDS WANT TO BE REBELS ... BUT YOU CANíT BE A REBEL AND LISTEN TO YOUR DAD,AND ATTEND TRAINING COURSES,AND ALL THAT STUFFî
around being a rebel.
People on TV smoked. People on TV also rode motorcycles without wearing helmets.
Did Fonzie wear a helmet in ëHappy Daysí? No, Mr Cunningham, he didnít. Helmet-less motorcycleriding was cool, and riders were deliberately represented as being cool ñ and rebels. And you, too, could be cool and a rebel: all you had to do was buy a motorcycle. Hey, you didnít even have to breathe smoke, except maybe a whiff of two-stroke exhaust. And frankly, it would never have occurred to you to wear a helmet. If the Old Man had insisted, you would have worn it riding away from home and then doffed it as soon as possible.
If youíre a smoker, or if you ever smoked, what got you started? Not the experience itself, Iíll bet.
So what am I saying? Not that potential young riders should not be required to wear helmets ñ or should smoke. After all, Iím at the ëDadí age. All right, the ëGrandpaí age, and I can feel my responsibilities weighing heavily upon me. What I am saying is that at least some of the attraction of motorcycling, just like the attraction of smoking, was that it made you cool ñ and a rebel.
Many kids want to be rebels. I did, and I bet you did too. But you canít be a rebel and listen to your dad, and attend training courses, and all that stuff.
So perhaps weíve been too successful with our safety messages. D
WORDS BORIS MIHAILOVIC
B O R I S BODY ENGLISH
IDONíT USUALLY HAVE
MUCH interest in how other people ride. Provided theyíre not over-cooking corners and crashing into me, Iím largely indifferent to their wobblings.
Of course, should you do something really stupid that endangers me, like the aforementioned over-cooking of a corner, I will make a concerted effort to add a whole bunch of extra injuries to your wounds when youíre trapped under the Armco or lying in a tabledrain. Count on it.
Still, thereís a thing I have noticed a majority of riders are doing ñ well, actually not doing ñ which, should they start doing, would enhance their riding experience exponentially, and perhaps even save them from a serious stomping by an affronted rider who has found them on his side of the road as heís coming into a bend.
Iím merely making an observation here. And this is an observation many of you should have made for yourselves, but you havenít. So itís up to me. And whoíll tell you if I wonít? You certainly canít count on that herd of nervous donkeys you ride with, huh?
So, what Iím seeing is the utter lack of any body movement as youíre going through corners. Some of you are not even turning your heads to look through the corners. And thatís the least of what needs to happen as you essay a bend.
Look where you want to go. Itís called ìTarget Fixationî. If your target is the exit of the bend, thatís where your head should be turned and where you should be looking. If youíre staring at the bitumen in front of your wheel, or the bike in front, or the cliff, then you have a problem.
Also understand your head needs to be kinda parallel with the road surface even if youíre leaning into a corner. Watch any racer and youíll get the idea. Now watch that racer some more. What is he doing? Bastard seems to be hanging off his hurtling motorcycle like a spider-monkey off a coconut, right? Knee on the deck and pointing towards the front axle, head straight on a bent neck, and bringing it, right? Whatís that got to do with you and your lardy arse on your cruiser or adventure bike?
Everything, chief. Everything. Itís called Body English. And according to a dictionary, it means: ìThe bodily movements a rider makes to supplement the basic steering of a vehicleî.
Riding a bike is a whole-body thing. You canít just sit there, bolt upright like you have a broomstick up your blurter, and imagine youíre riding well. Youíre not. Youíre riding poorly, and if the Road Gods will it, I will be stomping you as youíre wedged under the Armco one sunny Sunday afternoon. So you do have that to look forward to. But in all seriousness, you do need to move on your bike when youíre engaged in cornering. Reposition your doughy shit in such a way as to assist the vehicle in getting around the corner. How you have not worked this out by seeing faster riders doing it is beyond me.
When your bike is leant over in a bend, your shoulders and your head need to be leant over a bit more and a bit forward. You should maybe have some weight on the inside peg, or footboard. Granted, itís not easy to haul your big arse out of the padded cup of your cruiser seat, but maybe heave your once-mighty shoulders out a little, yes? Provide some Body English to help matters along.
Please understand Iím not encouraging you to hang off your bike like Marc Marquez. Like, that would be funny and all, and I would very much enjoy seeing you fall off the side of your bike making the attempt, but thereís no need for that.
Seeing you sitting bolt upright as you enter a corner and then seeing your body stay in line with the leanangle of the bike, is also enjoyable in the ìIím watching a train-wreck of a riderî kinda way.
And I know youíve got a death-grip on your bars, youíre nervous as hell, and once you get to corner 87 on the 99 twisty bastards there are on, say the Putty Road, youíre exhausted and emotional and youíre now wishing it would all just end.
You have no business being nervous on a bike. You can be cautious but not nervous. Thereís a difference. And youíre nervous because youíre not very good at riding ñ and that is simply inexcusable.
It is incumbent upon you to be the best rider you can be. The price for being shit at riding is very high. Ask around.
Do courses, ride with better riders and watch what they do and how they do it. Wobbling around with your usual crew of dodderers for a ìrelaxing cruiseî is patent bullshit. If youíre relaxing when youíre riding your bike, youíre gonna die. You can ride in a relaxed manner only when youíre good enough to do so. But thatís not being relaxed. Relaxing is for the lounge. Riding bikes is a full-body, full-mind, pay attention kinda thing. Or not. Your call. D
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