Australian Motorcyclist Magazine is published by Australian Motorcyclist Magazine Pty Ltd. Suite 4b, Level 1, 11-13 Orion Rd, Lane Cove West NSW 2066 Phone 0412 220 680.
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E D I T O R S P E A K S
You buy the coffee
ONE OF OUR FINE
readers (as you all are) came into the office recently and along with taking away some of the bookcases we didn’t need, had a suggestion… he wanted to come along on a photoshoot to see what we do and be a part of the magazine. I told him it’s not overly exciting as all we do is pick a location, I ride back and forth while getting snapped and then pick a place to drink coffee. The suggestion that he’d buy the coffee, well, that was enough to convince me. LOL! So, one of the upcoming bikes we test I’ll get him along on a shoot and we might see if this becomes a bit of a thing that you guys might like to be a part of.
Speaking of the office, covid-19 has made us realise we really have no need for the office and it was a waste of money at the end of the day, so we’ve moved out. We will keep the address for mailing at this stage, as our good friends Nigel and Mike still run their business from there.
The FZR1000 race engine is back in the bike and running! This has taken almost 11 months and a lot of moolah since I blew it up at the final ASBK round last year. It was so good to hear it fire back into life and now comes the fun stuff!
The reason for me racing it last year was to sort the handling and get a feel for what the bike does. It is much easier to know what’s going on with a bike if you can actually ride it and feel it for yourself.
Alex isn’t the most talkative when it comes to setup, so both, Chris (his dad) and I felt I should race it and get it on the right path. I was shocked (to say the least) at how Alex could ride the FZR as fast as he has. Shows just how good a rider he is. Alex had asked for some more pep off the corners, so the engine rebuild will give him that.
I was not happy with the suspension setup so I’ve changed the front and put a heavier spring in the shock. The seat is also being changed to an OW01 race seat – the angle of the Norton Rotary seat unit put you in a weird position and made it hard to ride. I’m a big believer that if you’re comfy on a race bike you’ll be able to ride it fast.
Testing will be forthcoming where I’ll ride it for half a day then I’ll unleash Alex and let him loose to get comfy with our, Beast.
Enjoy. Cheers, Stuart.
Now it’s time to finish this Z900 restoration! Finally!
• KAWASAKI QUICK SHIFTER
N E W S
GEAR UP!
Ural outfits, in countries that are left hand drive – meaning the outfit is on the right versus the left for us have had the two-wheel drive version at least since Kursk. The Australian distributor has long pushed to get the 2WD model here and have finally done it. The advantage of having 2WD drive is you can go some places not even a two-wheeled (single drive) motorcycle can go. Just check out the fast flowing deep river crossing on YouTube - https://youtu. be/kZxhTjaCmso and this will give you an idea of the capability the 2WD Ural has. Ural Australia has confirmed the ‘Gear Up’ 2WD will be available in its own unique colour –Outback Orange which will be included in the standard colour range for this model. Pricing starts from $27,990 excluding on road costs and the Gear Up is fitted with loads of extras which include
SMALL SPORTS
Pirelli’s Diablo
a spare wheel, luggage rack, sidecar accessories panel for charging devices, utility shovel, jerry can, sidecar bumper with LED fog lights and sidecar Cordura tonneau cover. See your local dealer to place an order or Phone: +61 2 6778 4673, Email: info@ imz-ural.com.au or check out the website: imz-ural.com.au
Rosso Sport is a cross-ply tyre dedicated to underbones, small displacement sports and touring bikes and scooters.You can now have grip in all conditions with a supersports tread pattern, new angle geometry, sport behaviour and confidence in cornering both on dry and wet and much more. Targeted at today’s urban youth wanting a sport tyre designed for their smaller capacity
motorcycle or scooter, with mileage less relevant than performance and handling. Available in a large range of sizes, pricing starts at $104.95 and $59.95 for the scooter version. See your local Pirelli dealer or pirellimoto.com.au
SALES ARE UP!
Motorcycle sales for this third quarter are up on last year by 26.4% overall according to the latest figures released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI). Offroad bikes have been the biggest winners with sales up 39.9%. The road market, which is what we mainly focus on, has still seen
good growth of 8.2%, whereas scooters have experienced a 4.5% dive. These figures are great to read in this strange time we’re living in. Let’s hope it continues once the distributors are able to get more stock and the 2021 models start rolling in over the next couple of months.
DO IT, AND WIN BIG
Shannons is giving motoring enthusiasts the chance to win the ultimate all American drive and ride prize - an iconic Ford Mustang GT V8 Fastback and a limited-edition Indian Scout 100th Anniversary Motorcycle! As well as up to 12-months Shannons Car and Bike Insurance and Shannons Roadside Assist. Plus, $5,000 cash if you’re an eligible Shannons Club member. That’s up to $105,000 in prizes for one lucky winner.
Finished in Grabber Lime, the Mustang has a 5.0L V8 engine, a 10-speed auto transmission and includes the GT Shadow Pack featuring unique dark exterior styling including a black painted roof, bonnet stripes, lower side stripes and blackedout badging.
The limited-edition Indian Scout is an outstanding collectable with its
SIX TIMES STRAIGHT
Jonathon Rea has done the unthinkable, winning six straight World Superbike titles. This year started off with a crash and finished the same way, however the in between was pure Rea class, showing just why he is the best WSBK rider of all time. Well done, Mr Rea!
Indian Red with Gold trim heritage style paint scheme, genuine leather solo saddle seat, black wire wheels, iconic tank badge, chrome beach bars and finishes.
So, if you’re a motoring enthusiast, make sure you call Shannons to get a quote on your car, bike or home insurance to enter. Every eligible quote gives you an extra chance in the draw. Take out a new Motor Policy for your car or bike and you will get 5 entries in the draw. Take out a new Home & Contents policy OR have an existing Home & Contents Policy+ and you will get 10 entries in the draw. Call Shannons on 13 46 46 or go online to shannons.com.au/mustang Competition closes 29 January 2021 See shannons.com.au for full terms and conditions.
RAIN, HAIL OR SHINE
Rite in the Rain’s all-new, groundbreaking paper technology is the new solution for protecting important notes from getting destroyed. A first of its kind, you can spill any type of fluid on this durable paper and it will wash completely off, without ruining your page or musings. The brand was developed in the Pacific Northwest to help loggers combat rainy conditions, and is now available across the globe in notebook, notepad and sheet forms.
Rite in the Rain’s original, allweather and recyclable writing paper lets you write no matter the weather condition, which means it’s an essential must-have, especially if you need to write something while out riding and it’s raining!
Other fluids Rite in the Rain protects from include: all forms of water (including rainstorms, water submersion and accidental inclusions in washing machines), Sweat, Oil and Grease, Mud and Grime, Milk and other liquid kitchen spills.
Making it easy for use in any location, Rite in the Rain paper is compatible with most average pens and printers. As long as water-based inks aren’t involved, there is no need to worry about the text washing off. Rite in the Rain products are available from gearsupply.com.au
Triple-powered 660cc performance. Class-leading technology. An agile and precise chassis. LAMs Approved. Experience the all-new Triumph Trident 660, with its confident, sporty poise and low seat height for an unforgettable ride. Style meets substance in one exciting package – The all-new Trident 660. Pure fun guaranteed.
Do you remember some bloke by the name of Wayne Gardner? Well, of course you do! His son, Remy has been showing his skills in the Moto2 championship on an inferior and older model bike. Teams took note and Red Bull KTM Ajo team and the KTM GP Academy are excited to welcome 22year old Remy Gardner into their Moto2 line-up for the 2021 FIM World Championship. Remy should be a regular on the podium next year – great stuff!
GOLD STAR
The e-book launch of Roy Kunda’s King of the Cape has been so successful it’s earned a Gold Star from Amazon. On launch day the following rankings were achieved:
#1 Best seller in Motor Sport Books
#1 Best seller in Sports and Outdoors Books
#1 Best seller in Extreme Sports Books and Kindle books
Well done to Roy and his wife, Renae. If you haven’t already grabbed a copy of King of the Cape, you better get to it!
MAKE CONTACT
Travel bubbles are starting to open up between us and Unzud, so now is the time to seriously consider coming along on our Riders Tour –riding the best South Island roads and enjoying all the entertainment the Burt Munro Challenge has to offer. Let’s kick covid to the curb and have a bloody awesome time! Get in touch with the team at Paradise Motorcycle Tours, now! paradisemotorcycletours.co.nz +64 27 476 5035 info@paradisemotorcycletours.co.nz
READY TO RALLY?
Ulysses is holding the annual national rally in Mandurah, Western Australia for a full week of rides, entertainment, music and trade displays, in March 2021. Registrations are open, jump onto ulyssessrally2021.com
MEAN AS!
For 2021 Ducati presents the Streetfighter V4 S in a new Dark Stealth colour scheme, which joins the sporty Ducati Red. Furthermore, all models in the Ducati Streetfighter V4 range become compliant with the Euro 5 anti-pollution legislation in all countries where it is in force. The Streetfighter is the result of the “Fight Formula”: the Panigale V4 stripped of the fairings and with a high and wide handlebar, 178kg on the scale, powered by the 1100cc Desmosedici Stradale delivering 208hp kept in hand by biplane wings and a complete electronic package. The modern and technological Ducati naked bike has immediately enjoyed great success among motorcyclists all over the world, also confirmed by the positive feedback from the international media.
Dark Stealth is a matt black colour that represents the perfect chromatic choice to show the aggressive side of the ultra-naked Ducati. See your local Ducati dealer, while we wait to grab one to test for you. D
IT HAS BEEN QUITE some time since Benelli had a non-LAMS motorcycle. This all-new 752S is in fact the first non-LAMS Benelli in the marque’s modern era and marks a return to the medium capacity segment. We grabbed the first and only one in Australia and gave it a proper workout, riding it through traffic, open roads and twisty back roads.
The design of the 752S does look a little similar to another brand’s naked bike but that hasn’t stopped the 752S from being a very aesthetically pleasing machine to check out. The trellis frame, nicely shaped tank and stylish modern headlight all fit in well together and fit/finish is nice. The bike is well appointed with LED indicators and projector type headlight. The only two things that get in the way of the design are the pillion pegs, which stop you from seeing all of that lovely reverse cone muffler, and the licence plate carrier. Housed in the trellis frame is the
TEST
Qianjiang-developed and built 754cc parallel-twin. It has the same bore and stroke as Benelli’s TnT1130 triple motor - just with one fewer cylinder. A claimed 56kW with 67Nm of torque makes nice numbers on paper but the engine feels disappointingly sluggish in its response and lacks that zip you get on rivals such as the Yamaha MT-07, Suzuki GSX-S750 or Ducati Monster 821.
Its slow revving nature makes it quite relaxed and vibrations creep in higher in the rev range, however the overall impression is one of an old and slightly outdated engine that wants to lope along rather than thrill – it could do with a bit more mid-range punch. If you keep the revs up over 6000rpm it feels responsive. Sadly, this is not where you’ll ride this bike the majority of the time. The gearbox is also a bit clunky and the clutch on the bike we tested was quite grabby. A mid-capacity bike should be a barrel of fun to ride, but the engine makes the rest of the bike feel a little soulless as a result. Shame, because handling and braking are outstanding.
Boasting Marzocchi 50mm fullyadjustable forks and preload adjustable KYB shock, the 752S whips into corners as nicely as you could want. Riding bumps and changes of direction through traffic are also well sorted and easy to do. In fact, the pegs could be a little higher as you quickly run out of room before you’re grinding the hero knobs, while feeling you’re not that far leant over, when in fact you are! Also in this equation are Pirelli Angel ST tyres which
Braking is awesome thanks to Brembo radial brakes (with ABS) up front and a Brembo caliper at the rear. Power with loads of feel let you run the 752S hard into the apex and the ABS isn’t intrusive.
Ergonomics are good – the riding triangle puts you in a comfy position with decent seat to peg height and light weight on the wrists. Seat comfort was good for a couple of hundred kays at a time and the weight of the bike, while appearing heavy on paper at 220kg dry, is only noticeable when pushing it up an incline.
BRAKES: Front, twin 320mm discs with radial mount four-piston ABS calipers. Rear, 260mm disc, twin-piston ABS caliper.
FUEL CONSUMPTION: 5.60 litres per 100km, premium unleaded
THEORETICAL RANGE: 258km
COLOURS: Green, Red, Black
VERDICT: Check me out!
The tidy and relatively compact
TFT colour dash looks nice and relays speed, rpm, gear position, fuel gauge, time and trip. It also has a small sun screen which helps reduce any glare, and the colours in the dash look especially good at night.
Accessories are still on their way as you read this, but I’m told they’ll consist of levers, mirrors, anodized bits and pieces, pegs and more.
Benelli gives you the style, handling and braking you expect from an Italian marque; if the engine had a little more mid-range poke it would be a complete mid-sized package for all riders. D
COMPILED BY STUART
Christmas is just around the corner and for many, seeing the end of 2020 will be a good thing, however we have spoken to Santa and he wants you to have a cracking good 2020 Christmas and has the following amazing xmas gifts for all of us motorcycling nuts. Remember, these ‘gifts’ are also great for your family and friends. Buy up and have a great time!
SW
CHRISTMAS GIFT
AUSTRALIAN MOTORCYCLIST ausmotorcyclist.com.au
12 or 24 month subscription – $104.95, $199.95
Yes, one of the best Christmas presents you could ever hope for is a subscription to the best magazine this country has to offer. It’s easy to order and it’s not a gift that goes away as every month a fresh copy is delivered straight to your door. Choose either 12 months or 24 months and enjoy!
ELDORADO
At all good motorcycle shops.
To find stockists –eldoradohelmets. com
ROCKY CREEK DESIGNS
rockycreekdesigns.com.au
GearLok – $38.95
Lock your helmet, jacket and bag to your bike. GearLok has a 1.5m long cable and a 4–digit combination lock, to lock your helmet, jacket, backpack or any other accessory to your bike. Once you have finished using it, roll up and insert into the neoprene bag provided.
Motopressor Smart Pump – $169.95
EXR Helmet – $99
Small and compact, this cordless, rechargeable tyre inflator with built in torch, is ideal for inflating motorcycle tyres, RV, car and bicycle tyres. It will also inflate pool toys and footballs and charge your electronic device! You can set and store 4 separate pressures and it will automatically shut off after the pressure is reached.
Sahara Chair –$139.95
Stores small, super strong and offers extra luxury after a long day’s ride. This chair offers a seriously comfortable “Apres ride” experience. A high back chair which will support you all the way up to your shoulders, with a pillow for your head. The chair is rated to 120kg.
MotoPressor Puncture Repair Kit – $99.95
Compact tubeless puncture repair kit that includes everything you’ll need to get you back on the road. The whole kit stores in a handy neoprene bag measuring 14 x 11 x 5cm and weighs 580grams.
The EXR open face helmet is Eldorado’s flagship model. During development there was a heavy focus on bringing the best experience, safety and style to the rider. Specifically built for Australian conditions, the EXR has a specially designed interior to reduce road noise and offer increased comfort with hand–sewn soft touch Lycra lining. The EXR is also claimed to be the lowest profile open face helmet on the market and is approved for use under Australian Helmet standards. Available in matte black or gloss white, in sizes: XS – 2XL.
KAWASAKI
kawasaki.com.au or your local dealer
Ninja T–shirt
– $29
Have you got a Ninja, or know someone who does? Get in early for Christmas and order your 100% black cotton Tee. Attractive lime green Ninja logo and honeycomb graphic. White Kawasaki Logo on the sleeves. Available in sizes S – 5XL.
Kawasaki 100% Cotton T–shirt – $29
Soft and comfortable. Kawasaki logo across the chest, lime green graphic for an extra bit of style. Available in sizes S – 5XL.
Zoom Neck Tube – $25
Another gift idea and so versatile, can be worn in a number of ways. Distinctive Kawasaki design, black with lime green graphic and white Kawasaki logo. 100% soft polyester microfiber. Easy to clean and fast drying.
Kawasaki Sunglasses – $30
These Polarized green mirror lens and black frame with Kawasaki printed on the arms are sharp looking. Comes in a soft cloth bag that doubles as a lens wipe.
Kawasaki Jet Ski Cap – $20
Heading out into the summer sun? Wear a cap to keep the sun off your face. Kawasaki Jet Ski Cap is a smart summer partner. Embroidered Jet Ski logo over subtle Jet Ski screen–print, snap back trucker style mesh back cap, the perfect choice.
ESD E10 Helmet – $89.95
The ESD E10 is claimed to be the best value for money 3/4 face helmet on the market. Designed for riders wanting a wide field of vision and protection from the elements on any ride. The E10 offers a full–face shield as well as sweat–wicking interior coupled with inner channels to vent air flow from front to back and keep the wearer’s head cool and comfortable. Double d–ring closure system, shock absorbing EPS liner and ABS outer shell allow the E10 to Australian standards approved. Available in matte black or gloss white, in sizes: XS – XL.
Charlee Gloves – $59
The Eldorado Charlee motorcycle gloves are retro styled and designed to fit and feel as good as they look. Top grain cowhide, reinforced Kevlar palm protection with perforated fingers allow the rider to be protected but stay cool on the road. With a look straight out of the ‘70s the Charlee is the perfect glove for any ride.
Available in bronze or black/grey in men's sizes S – 3XL; and in bronze or black in women's sizes S – XL.
CHRISTMAS GIFT
ROYAL ENFIELD
royalenfield.com.au or your local dealer
Street Ready Avoid Cow T–Shirt – $25.95
Regular fit, 100% cotton, 190 GSM tee featuring a crewneck, single jersey, leather patch, branding at the back, helmet badging on the sleeves and regional linked art work.
Clymer Riding Jacket – $269.95
The Clymer Jacket celebrates the versatility of the mighty Interceptor. A classic field jacket at first glance, look closer and you’ll find a full suite of motorcycle safety features. When the Puffer winter jacket is attached to the loops inside the Clymer, you get a truly all–season ecosystem, perfect for the all–season rider.
Garrison Face Mask Tri Pack – $59.95
Extend safety beyond the saddle with Garrison face protection mask. Treated with Viral Off Polygiene technology, this face mask is anti–microbial, anti–pollution, anti–dust, and anti–odour. Crafted with 3 layers of premium fabric for comfort and has a wide face coverage for better protection. This pack includes three different designs of facemask.
Royal Enfield Classic 500 1:12 Scale Model Desert Storm – $54.95
Inspired by the valour of the men in uniform serving in the deserts. This 1:12 scale model is an official replica of the iconic Classic Desert Storm. 3D Scale Model, Diecast Metal model with plastic parts, steerable handlebar, free rolling wheels, working rear suspension and side stand, rear–view mirrors, and dimensions: 17.5cm (L) x 6.5cm (B) x 10.5cm (H).
*Warning: The product is suitable for the age group of 8+ years. Not suitable for children under the age of 36 months due to the danger of swallowing small parts. Choking hazard!
LEXTEK
Contact Bruce Collins Enterprises to find your closest stockist. Call 03 9645 2919 or email sales@bce.net.au
Motorcycle/Scooter Luggage Box 52L with Carry Handle – $79
This large universal 52 litre top box is ideal for all motorcycles and scooters*. It adds extra storage to your bike with ease. Big enough to fit two full face helmets, gloves, and more. This top box will keep your belongings both safe and dry with its secure lock and watertight seal. Plus, with a large reflector panel, it also improves
your visibility on the road. It is easy to fit and comes with everything you need including 2 keys, a universal mounting plate, and a fixing kit.
*Please note, a luggage rack must be fitted to the bike for this luggage box to fit. Width (approx): 550mm, Height (approx): 400mm, Length (approx): 310mm.
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, you’ll find us at Race Central alongside Eastern Creek International Raceway.
Motorrad Garage is the winning destination for all your motorcycle accessories.
For more information call or visit one of our showrooms or shop online at:
FÜSPORT
fusportboots.com and all good bike shops
Dirt Pilot Boots – $179
The Dirt Pilot is, simply put, claimed to be the best value for money Moto boot on the market. Füsport’s Dirt Pilot has features that are seen on off–road boots at a far higher price point. Extremely comfortable, with a snug fit, they are durable and waterproof, whilst proving top level protection and an easy to use buckle system. The Dirt Pilot incorporates hard moulded TPU in the areas you need it, a hard–wearing rubber sole to provide grip but also longevity, an air–mesh interior and an inbuilt heat shield on the inside of the calf. You’ll feel confident spending hours in these boots off road including long enduro rides through creeks and rivers.
Available in sizes 39 – 48.
BENELLI
benelli.com.au or your local dealer
KV–03 Helmet Red –$175.95
Coper–Tex Jacket – $269.95
Full face, ABS thermoplastic resin shell, aerodynamic outer shell design, anti–scratch visor and anti–UV inner sunglasses.
Black, 100 % cotton Polo shirt with logo on front.
Available in sizes M – 3XL.
V–Strom Long Sleeve Top – $39.95
Black, 100% cotton long sleeve top with logo on front, top is long length so the garment can be tucked into riding apparel.
Available in sizes L – 3XL.
V–Strom Bottle Opener – $9.95
Essential piece of kit for any motorcyclist. Comes with keyring attachment.
cambox.eu
V4 / V4+ / V4 PRO – from $540
Cambox Meca offers a new way to record your race car and reinvents the action camera with its unprecedented shape and light design. The Cambox is perfect for all kind of motorsports; fastened under your visor it suits every shape of helmet available on the market.
Panel Zip Hoodie
– $89.95
Premium 70/30 poly/ cotton zip thru fleece hoodie with Suzuki screen printed designs. Suzuki “S” embroidered on sleeves. Sizes S – XL.
Race Ride Glove by FIST – $44.95
Exclusive design only available through Suzuki Australia. Minimalistic lightweight design for maximum performance and feel,
sublimated 4–way stretch twill spandex upper featuring full breathability and supreme comfort, single layer Clarino palm for maximum feel and control, Spandex finger gussets for ultimate flexibility and dexterity, touch screen conductive index finger and thumb and custom FIST closure offers a broad range of adjustment to keep your gloves secured just how you like them. Available in sizes S – XL.
CHRISTMAS GIFT
AGV HELMETS
ARK
Intercom –
agvhelmets.com.au and all good bike shops
K–1 Pitlane – $279
K–1 is the AGV sport helmet for everyday riding challenges. Born from the AGV racing technology, ready for every road experience. The aerodynamic shape, racing–developed front air vents and wind–tunnel–tested spoiler maximize performances and give stability at higher speed.
ANDY STRAPZ
andystrapz.com
main unit $399, helmet specific bases $29.95, handlebar remote $149 AGV ARK is here and ready to change your ride. Seamlessly communicate with up to 4 other riders simultaneously, with only the click of a button. Design specifically for AGV helmets, it allows you to talk to riding companions up to 1.6km away, take calls, listen to music and heaps more. Compatible AGV helmets are the AX9 Adventure range, the K5–S Sports range and the fantastic Sport Modular Touring range. Additionally, a handlebar remote is available for true “hands on bar and throttle” operation.
PacSafe Retractasafe 250 – $27
Dragging a helmet and jacket on a short walk to a lookout or café is a pain in the rear. These compact cable locks free riders up to leave their bike and gear unattended and protected from opportunistic theft. Made of high impact plastic, featuring combination dials and 90cm of plastic coated braided stainless steel cable, it’s long enough for both jacket and helmet.
MOTUL
linkint.com.au
Air Filter Wash Kit – $119.90
MACNA
Cleaning air filters isn’t much fun, but this comprehensive kit makes it as easy as possible. Kit includes Motul air filter oil; tube of grease used to grease the outer rim of the air filter; Foam Filter Clean which is specially formulated to break down dirt and air filter oil, and contains a detergent to wash clean by simply rinsing with water; drying rack, which provides separation from sediment during the cleaning process, and also provides a suitable drying location for a freshly cleaned air filter; container for storing excess air filter oil ready for re–use and finally the wash bucket, which is the perfect size to wash dirty air filters.
macnaridinggear.com.au and all good bike shops
Cool Vest Dry Evo – $249.95
Based on a simple evaporative system. Add 600ml of normal temperature tap water into the opening on the upper back; the water is absorbed into the special internal weave and as air passes over the vest, the evaporative effect creates significant cooling. Depending on the temperature and humidity, 600ml will last up to three days. Works best under a jacket that allows air–flow.
Available in men’s sizes, S–M, L–XL, 2–3XL & 4–5XL.
Airium gloves (and Airi gloves for ladies) – $130
The new Rukka Airium and Airi gloves do it all. They are made of a top quality textile, which is remarkably elastic, breathable and abrasion resistant and therefore ensures perfect fit, good ventilation and passive safety. Integrated protectors for the fingers, knuckles and scaphoid bone increase protection even further, while special pads on the palms and
Hybe–R and Hybe–Rina jacket for ladies – $145
Softshell jacket, light insulated area on chest to protect from wind and cold. Elastic panels on sides, under sleeves and upper back. Elastic binding on sleeve ends and hem, 2 front zipper pockets. Last but not least, reflecting details on chest.
fingertips increase the grip. Sturdy Velcro strips on the cuffs help keep the gloves securely in their place. In addition, touchscreen fingertips for thumbs and index fingers on both gloves allow operating a GPS system or a smart phone with the CE certified gloves on.
Available in black, men sizes 6-14, and women's sizes 6 – 10.
Available in Black and Brown this jacket and pant from Rukka’s Urban collection offers laid back lifestyle looks for individualists. The textile jacket Raymore combines an authentic vintage look with the latest safety and comfort features. It uses top quality materials like a highly abrasion resistant, blended Cordura cotton fabric as an innovative outer material. Practical benefits include four outer pockets and two interior pockets. The newly developed Rukka D3O Air XTR Level
2 joint protectors are true guardian angels, offering maximum impact protection. In addition, elastic Cordura inserts in the sides as well as the sleeves and shoulders of the jacket ensure maximum mobility while air vents with zippers admit a refreshing breeze on hot days. The jacket is available in sizes 46 – 62. Urban collection includes the Eston trousers in a trendy chinos style. A wide choice of waists and leg lengths ensures almost every rider can find a great fitting pair.
cassons.com.au
ONU 20 – $189.95
Specifically designed for the athlete and professional on the go, the wheeled ONU–20 features a multitude of compartments to organise your gear and doubles as a great weekend travel bag. Features include, multiple easy access compartments featuring separate ventilated wet/dry or shoe area, internal padded laptop or tablet sleeve, full size, expandable water bottle pocket, smooth ride, in–line oversized wheels, sturdy dual telescopic handle, standing base allows the bag to stand upright and it’s the ideal carry on size once we all start travelling again!
Throttle Pack –$134.95
The OGIO Throttle Pack is a top–loading backpack with a water–resistant rain hood. The internal electronics pocket is fleece lined, and the external laptop sleeve fits most 17” computers. Other features include two external side pockets for beverage/small items, large front zippered pocket, two way adjustable sternum strap, two internal organization pockets and the pack is hydration ready.
CHRISTMAS GIFT
NELSON–RIGG
nelsonrigg.com.au and all good bike shops
CL–1060–R Tail Bag (small) –
$139.95
Introducing a smaller Tail Bag suitable for LAMS bikes, sportbikes or any motorcycle with a smaller pillion seat. This new tail–bag has easy mount straps supplied, holds 12 litres and expands to 15.3 litres when required. Made from industry leading water resistant UltraMax material, semi–rigid lid to ensure the bag maintains its shape, including rain cover. Also includes a lifetime warranty.
AC Classics GTX Waterproof Summer Boots – $450
Available in Black and Brown, this short shaft all–rounder in a chic retro look is a perfect summer boot: short shaft, easy access and light – all Daytona’s trademark comfort features. But that’s not all; they are truly waterproof too, thanks to Goretex.
Pro MX Print Socks –$16.95
What would Christmas be without someone giving a pair of socks! Well, how about giving the motorcyclist a pair of socks they’ll actually use. O’Neal Pro MX Socks are available in a variety fun prints, with the one you see here being the, ‘Wingman’. Made from 80% Acrylic, 15% Polyamide, 5% Spandex, these socks are knee–high, offer moisture wicking materials, thick knit in heel and sole for comfort and shock absorption, high density materials for durability and a ribbed arch and ankle for a secure fit.
provided engine and transmission, the R 50 donated the frame and running gear) turned out to be useful but never really ideal; for a start the Ural sidecar was too heavy. I didn’t build the perfect outfit until I matched a Yamaha Bolt to a replica Steib chair. Still, the Beemer outfit covered a lot of miles and was a lot of fun. I don’t seem to be able to find any photos, so you’ll have to settle for one of the Bolt.
RALPH -
KTM
SUPERDUKE / BMW R 1200 GS Split Decision
I owned both in the late 2000s and these bikes meant different things for
AMS
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Can’t think of the right pressie to give to your motorcyclist? Well how about an AMX Superstore gift card. It could buy that someone special the item they’ve always wanted.
Quadlock Phone Holders – From $29.95
View all the info you want from your phone while riding with it mounted right there on your handlebar. Quadlock phone holders safely hold and mount your phone to your motorcycle. Available for just about any phone.
me and my riding. Both bikes I bought without test riding, and placed an order prior to their arriving in Australia. It’s proof that marketing hype works! Both represented freedom in every sense -performance or travel, wheelstanding or chugging through the countryside. Both were instrumental in consolidating their brands in their respective markets.
T–Shirts –From $19
e 2010s
STUART – BMW R 1200 GS Water-Cooled Magic
AMX offer a wide variety of casual motorcycle t–shirts. Help a friend or family member to be the best dressed motorcyclist. D
Let it be known, BMW have pretty much always held amazing new bike launches and the introduction of the
Triumph Trident THE POMS M EAN BUSINESS!
WORDS STUART/TRIUMPH
PHOTOS TRIUMPH
WE SHOWED YOU THE prototype Triumph Trident a couple of issues ago and Triumph has now revealed the bike as a production ready machine. It looks to us like it’s going to the top level of the LAMS bike segment – yes, watch out Yamaha MT-07, Kawasaki Z650 and Honda CB650R!
Here’s the word according to Triumph.
The all-new Triumph Trident 660 marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Triumph Roadster segment and competes in what is now one of the most dynamic and exciting categories in motorcycling including the appeal for LAMs riders. Its design, combined with class-leading technology and a new 660cc triple powertrain, constitute the perfect combination for a new generation of riders to enter the Triumph world, with a motorcycle that provides class leading riding agility, thrilling performance, enhanced by state-of-the-art safety features, and an iconic and modern British design.
The new 660 triple engine delivers all the character and performance
advantages of a triple to the middleweight category for the first time, and has been developed specifically for the Trident with 67 new components and a unique torque and powerful tune. The Trident rider will experience the perfect balance of low-down torque, mid-range and top-end power, with the triple’s signature smooth, responsive and linear delivery. The result is an engine that has been designed to combine the low down and mid-range of a twin, with the top end performance of a four-cylinder engine, to deliver a major performance advantage with the best of all worlds.
Even though this is a LAMs entry, Trident riders will benefit from a punchy and linear power and torque delivery, with peak power of 39.8kW at 8750rpm and torque being available across most of the rev range, peaking at 59Nm at 5000rpm. This is claimed to be class leading, so it should be a heap of fun to ride. Feeding the engine is a 14-litre fuel tank.
With a new stylish underslung silencer, the Trident 660 has been
REVEAL
designed to also be the new best sounding bike in the category. The single sided silencer emits a deep and crisp engine sound, delivering a distinctive Triumph triple character.
A 6-speed gearbox with a slip and assist clutch and a new span-optimised clutch lever, provides a light action to reduce the rider’s fatigue and making it ideal for urban riding. For even smoother and sportier riding styles, a Triumph shift assist up-&-down quickshifter is available as an accessory.
With a set-up and specification designed to set a new benchmark for handling, the new Trident delivers a confidence-inspiring, agile and fun ride, with a light steering weight, low seat height (805mm) and slim width. Combining a wet weight of just 189kg, all-new tubular steel chassis, an ergonomic set-up designed to suit both experienced and new riders, lightweight 17’’ aluminium spoke wheels and tapered aluminium bars, the Trident will be as great to ride as it is to look at.
The Trident handles every road smoothly thanks to its premium Showa suspension set-up.
On the front the bike is equipped with Showa upside down separate function forks giving 120mm front wheel travel, while on the rear the Trident features the Showa preload adjustable monoshock rear suspension unit with linkage. With preload adjustability of the rear suspension and 133.5mm rear wheel travel, the Trident has been set-up to carry a pillion rider whilst maintaining its outstanding handling and exciting
riding experience.
The handling performance is enhanced further by the leading characteristics of the Michelin Road 5 tyres, fitted as standard, which deliver outstanding grip and provide confidence in both wet and dry conditions. A tyre pressure monitoring system is also available as an accessory.
control and phone and music control, all via Bluetooth, using the handlebar-mounted switch cubes.
To complete the Trident’s advanced set-up the Nissin braking system provides outstanding stopping power from 2-piston sliding front calipers with twin lightweight 310mm discs on the front, and a single piston rear caliper on the rear disc.
The Triumph Trident is equipped with an elegantly styled all-new dashboard providing the rider with all necessary information in a compact, clean and uncluttered style through a colour TFT screen integrated with a crystal clear ‘white-on-black’ LCD display. The instruments, when implemented with the dedicated My Triumph Connectivity System accessory module, can also provide turn-by-turn navigation, GoPro
Designed to deliver maximum riding pleasure and confidence, the new Trident comes fitted as standard with three class leading technology features: with 2 riding modes, adjustable traction control and ride-by-wire. The ‘Road’ and ‘Rain’ riding modes enhance the rider’s confidence, control and safety through the electronic adjustment of both the throttle map and traction control.
A 7’’ full LED headlight, exclusively designed for this model with a premium Triumph badge incorporated in it looks the part, along with a beautifully integrated LED tail-light that also has a Triumph badge integrated into it, and LED indicators which are self-cancelling. The high level of standard equipment and technology the
Triumph Trident 660 can be further enhanced through the dedicated Trident accessory range (45 in total) that will be available at all Triumph dealers. Riders can add internally-wired heated grips to enhance cold weather riding and install an under-seat USB charging socket.
The Trident will be available in four striking colour schemes –Silver Ice & Diable Red; Matt Jet Black & Matt Silver Ice; Crystal White, and Sapphire Black.
As with every Triumph motorcycle, the attention to detail and finishing has been crafted to set the benchmark
for quality. From the body coloured radiator cowls, to the sculptured aluminium yokes, body coloured fork protectors, tapered aluminium handlebars and teardrop shape mirrors, the Trident’s detailing, quality and finish is outstanding.
Now, you’re probably thinking this will be an expensive bike, but this is where it gets exciting! The Trident not only comes with class-leading technology, category-redefining rideability and a new Triumph iconic style, but it also brings an incredible
value and a cost of ownership among the lowest in the premium motorcycle market. How about just $10,999 plus on-roads (to be confirmed closer to release), with stock expected to arrive in dealerships in February 2021 at this stage?
We’re pretty excited here at AMM to get on the Trident and see if the marketing jargon matches the riding experience. Watch this space! D
SO ANYHOW, PROBABLY
NO-ONE in the history of Australia managed to create a public career around script-written one-liners more than Paul Hogan. In the ‘70s and ‘80s he was the face of Winfield cigarettes and his catch phrase was simply “Anyhow, have a Winfield” and it caught on like a Redhead in Mitchell Grass.
Hoges was truly on his way. One of the early Winnies’ ads featured the Sydney Symphony Orchestra springing into action when Hogan turns to the conductor and says, “Let her rip, Boris, old son.” This magazine’s resident angry man who writes the final column in each issue probably has that tattooed somewhere that I don’t particularly want to see.
Hogan was recruited to be the face of Australian Tourism and soon “Put another shrimp on the barbie” became his also.
He’d never seen a crocodile up close and dangerous but that didn’t stop him playing Mick “Crocodile” Dundee. And he’d never thrown a knife or used one in anger or for survival but that didn’t stop him delivering his most memorable line of all.
I’m thinking of Hoges as I head northwest up the Landsborough Highway out of Kynuna after a sherbet at the Blue Heeler, for the squirt up to the pub at McKinlay. It wasn’t always known as the Walkabout Creek and neither did it start out on the Landsborough Highway.
In 1985 when it was still the “Federal Hotel” and it was around the corner and a coupla blocks down it was taken over by Hoges and his film company and for a few weeks it was supposedly in the Northern Territory and in the middle of croc territory.
Anyhow, the flick was ‘Crocodile Dundee’ and they used the existing façade of the hotel for the externals but for the internal pub shots, constructed their own bar in a large shed out the back.
When I rock up the sign on the pub’s door says it’ll be open at 5pm and that’s still 2 hours away so I check out the town (population 18) and the camera angles (promising but problematic) and then find the local cop who says it’ll be fine to camp across from the pub so I can get some night shots - just keep back so the road trains don’t squash me, and
then it’s back to have a siesta in the disused post office.
The hotel’s doors open a bit early and I’m welcomed into the bar by a bushy beard, standard monotone faded blue country work shirt and a smile.
In 2013 Frank took six weeks break from mine work at Biloela and hit the dirt with his wife, Deb and mid-way through got to Uluru where they had a decent time but the weather wasn’t promising.
“From Alice Sprints we were headed to Boulia and rain was supposed to be on the way so we left a few days early … and ended at the Curry and stayed there and we were looking at the map and Deb said the Crocodile Dundee pub is on our way and it never ticked any boxes for me but she kept pestering me so we headed south and walked in here and looked at all the shit on the walls and there wasn’t a bastard in here, like no-one and we were talking away and figured we needed a drink so we’re singing out and tapping on the bar trying to rouse someone from out the back and eventually this bloke emerges and we buy a drink off him and he gives me my change and he disappears and
then this other bloke walks in and asks us, how does he book a caravan site and I say, ‘good luck with that we’re struggling to get a fucking drink’.”
“Down the road a bit later Deb says, ‘I could’ve done a better job than that’ and that sort of got us laughing and thinking. So at Boulia Deb googles the pub and says,’ hey that pub’s for sale’ and so we talked with my mate John who used to own the Mungerannie Hotel.
“Anyway I went back to work after the six weeks off and I went straight on the night shift and I did two shifts and I came home and I said to Deb I’m not doing this shit anymore. So the pub became option A. We had a heap of trouble raising the money. I’ve been with Westpac since I was at school and the pricks didn’t even give me an interview.”
Took about eight months from that fateful visit to them walking in as owners and there wasn’t a whole lot of stuff to do to get it how they wanted, except one aspect.
Deb, in faded green, has joined us and chimes in: “The bloke we bought it off was a decent person but he’d had it for 27 years, and he was just over it.”
It was just on eight years after this bloke bought the place from the bloke who had it during the filming that the pub was moved and renamed after its movie persona.
“The foundations were shot but they couldn’t get under it so they got a crowd out from Roma to raise it
and the bloke who owned the pub also owned two empty blocks up here on the main road and he thought well if I’m going to lift it I might as well shift it. So they brought it down here. Easy.”
The film-set bar out the back had been removed by the production company, as had the various props like the bottles on the faux bar’s walls and some motor vehicles.
Paul Hogan’s best mate, manager and off-sider was Paul “Strop” Cornell was also a producer of the movie.
“A while after we got the place Strop’s PA rang me and said they’d donated a heap of smaller stuff to the Aust Film Academy but she’d asked Strop what he was going to do with the truck and Cornell told her to ring the pub and see if we wanted it.
“If we paid the freight, we could have it so we brought it up and got it running. Usually it’s out the front of the pub but with Covid we can’t keep the thing cleaned properly.”
So during the plague, it’s parked down the back of the town, out of sight.
“Anyway about eight months later she rings me again and tells me that the Film Academy hasn’t got room for the old bar, do I want it? They’ve even still got all the booze bottles that were on the shelves in the movie. Same deal. I say ‘fuck yeah’, so we brought it up and now it’s out the back. Wanna see it?”
When we get back Deb’s at the bar cleaning a large knife.
A pair of young fellas from down around Coleambally has rocked up and they want to get a shot of themselves next to the cut-out of Hogan/Dundee doing his famous routine.
The knife’s the same as one Dundee waves at the faces of the hoods in New York, but different to the knife he throws in the movie.
“The props department fucked up. It’s supposed to be all just one knife but the one he waves and the one he throws have different handles if you look closely. It’s an 18 inch Bowie knife.”
One of the Colly kids wants to know what David Bowie did to get a knife named after himself. I think he’s fair dinkum. Frank chucks me a smile.
They take turns standing beside the cutout of Hogan as Dundee, hiding the knife behind their backs, sneering ‘that’s not a knife’, then pulling out the weapon, looking and pointing it at their mate and uttering the punch line, “this is a knife.”
The film is not the only connection McKinlay has with crocs. One hundred and twenty years before Paul Hogan uttered his celluloid
“That’s not a knife… this is a knife” lines, a trio of real bushmen from a larger party that’d been exploring the area around what’s now Kakadu in the NT, came across mouth of a river that was ‘swarming with alligators’. This was the East Alligator River and crossing it was out of the question.
They made camp and next day brought up the rest of the expedition with their horses and dogs. Gaadadju aboriginals, who’d been shadowing the group blocked off any retreat and the leader made the decision to construct a raft with sides so they could float back to their base at Escape Cliffs, then the projected site for the capital of the Northern Territory.
They cut saplings to make the raft’s skeleton and then the leader instructed the men to shoot their remaining 28 faithful horses. Then they skinned them with their (real) knives and
stretched the hides to dry as others jerked the meat for the cruise buffet.
When the punt was ready to go the 15 men clambered on board with their gear after first shooting their last two faithful dogs.
A full-time watch was immediately necessary to deter the attacks of the crocs, sharks and swordfish that shadowed the punt, attracted by the ‘nauseous effluvia’ of the rotting horseflesh.
As the skins began to rot, the punt began to take more and more water but after 7 days, they rounded Cape Hotham and headed down to Escape Cliffs.
“We (finally) arrived soon after 11am… Directly the punt touched the beach it literally fell to pieces …
We mounted the Cliffs and Dr Millner ordered us a glass of porter each…”
One of the great Australian sagas of survival had been completed.
The expedition’s leader, the bloke whose ingenuity and bush skills ensured that none of his men was lost – no Ruby Princess this - was a Scot, John McKinlay, and it was in his honour that this village on the Landsborough Highway is named.
As I pack the sleeping bag next morning I look across the highway to the Walkabout Creek and as its windows reflect the breaking sun and think of the township of McKinlay and the forces that brought about their names and their fame.
Waving a dagger in the faces of three punks in New York to save your wallet?
That’s not a knife stunt.
Skinning 28 horses and turning their hides into a raft that sails through croc and shark infested waters for a week and saves the lives of 15 men?
That’s a knife stunt.
PLEASE NOTE
This is a very condensed version of my yarn about this pub.
To read the full load, search Facebook for ‘Nothing but the Pub’, scroll to the piece on this place and click on the link to my blog.
CW
Bear talk
in 93 Issues of our magazine, this is the first time I’ve listened to a suggestion from the Emeritus Bear. So bloody glad I did because this pub, its stories and its people are unforgettable and deserve to be told. Like in all places, Covid’s been a game changer out here. The two permanent backpacker staff have gone and Frank and Deb are doing it all on their own. When the post office closed down in 2019 they took over the mail run and the pub opens in the afternoon after the people within a 200km radius get their letters. There’re also no meals at the moment, so pack your own tucker. But there’re eight beers on tap. A schooner’ll only set you back $6.30 and stubbies start at an even $5. A far cry from the prices I’d been paying at some of the places further south. And damn reasonable when the freight to get the stuff here is 5 bucks on every slab and $25 on every keg. The solid roof accommodation out the back is a line of single dongas running at $88 a night, shared amenities, $121 with your own ensuite. Way down the back where the old pub used to be there’re nine more rooms mainly used by work crews and contractors.
There’s powered and unpowered camping sites and it’ll cost you $12 to throw your swag or tent and use the showers and toilets but push enough money across the bar and your squat might just be a bit cheaper.
When I asked Frank and Deb what changes I’ll see when I come back in five years the response was simply: “You’ll see this. This is what this pub is. Just back to normal hours!”
Off the scale for unique character. For value, the cheap drinks are a bit offset by accommodation costs which are not basement but it rated about 115 on our scale. Four out of five helmets for Motorcycle Friendly, they really do like riders – just take it easy on the gravel out front. D
No matter where you work, a parking spot is likely to be nearby.
ING INSURANCE
LIKES MOTOR
Admittedly, they’re trying to sell us insurance
SCIENTISTS AND CLINICIANS AGREE that the best way to protect mental well-being and brain health is through prevention,” says Wikipedia. “People who adopt healthy habits early in life stand a much higher chance of avoiding problems later on.”
It’s too late for me, but by all means save yourselves.
Having said that, though, new research from insurance company ING in Australia reveals that although you should start riding a bike early, it’s never too late. Motorcyclists are 27% happier than the average motorist, it seems. I don’t find this at all surprising, having made a bit of a study myself of the facial expressions of drivers on Sydney’s main roads – or as we locals know them: long, arterial parking lots.
The study has uncovered the therapeutic benefits of motorcycle riding, “with eight in 10 (82%) of motorcycle riders agreeing that riding makes them happy, compared to only half (55%) of motorists”. Actually,
this is misleading. Riding does not make half of motorists happy. It makes a much larger percentage of them furious. It’s driving that allegedly makes 55% of them happy, and my only reaction to that is “you have to be kidding”. If that’s true, why are they so aggressive and miserably territorial in their little four-wheeled kingdoms?
Here’s another – odd – claim. “More than half (51%) of motorcycle riders surveyed said the positive mental health effects of riding was the top reason for them choosing the biker lifestyle.” Where did they get their sample from? Not from Sydney’s roads, where more than half of motorcyclists are delivering Uber meals. To claim that these people, or even any significant percentage of them, chose “the biker lifestyle” is somewhat ingenuous. Positive mental health effects? Try just getting three meals a day as the effect they get. Without any sort of definition of what “the biker lifestyle” is, this is
WORDS/PHOTOS THE BEAR
a moot point anyway. If I ride a Vespa to work, am I choosing the biker lifestyle? Well, yeah, nah, yeah, nah, not by any definition I can come up with.
But hist! A reason for these assumptions this way comes! The release of the research coincides with ING’s new Motorcycle Insurance, so let’s talk up motorcycling as a... dammit, I’m going to do it myself… “lifestyle choice”. ING’s Head of Wealth (and what a wonderful title that
“ALMOST HALF (48%) OF THE MOTORCYCLING RESPONDENTS SAY RIDING A MOTORCYCLE IS A FORM OF MINDFULNESS THAT HELPS THEM DE-STRESS”
is!), Cathy Duncan says: “The research indicates that riding a motorcycle could be providing many with some of the same benefits of practices like yoga and meditation.”
Motorcycles can park wherever cars can, but they don’t have to pay.
CYCLING
To be fair, I know what she’s talking about. The downward dog that was just snapping at my front wheel is a common experience for me, and today I managed to kick it in the ribs. Definite benefit. And I frequently meditate on the chances of sending the driver of that white van who just cut me off and gave me the finger when I blew my horn, straight to hell. Omm…
“Almost half (48%) of the motorcycling respondents say riding a motorcycle is a form of mindfulness that helps them de-stress,” says the ING report, while “41% say they love the sense of freedom that comes with riding and more than a third (34%) enjoy the fresh air and taking in nature.”
So, clearly, a lot of these people never ride in traffic. Fat chance of de-stressing, although you’d have to accept that being able to filter through queued-up traffic would give you a certain sense of freedom. As for the fresh air and nature, not on my watch, buddy. You need to get a long way out of town before you hit those.
One of the findings I do agree with is the financial advantages. “The research found that Aussie motorcycle riders aren’t only benefitting mentally from their practice, they’re also saving time and money. More than one in three (36%) motorcycle riders say they love riding for: the convenience of getting around, the ease of finding a parking spot (35%) and saving money (34%).”
As the bloke who wrote the Sydney City Motorcycle and Scooter Policy, which provided for lots of extra parking, I can take credit for the ease of finding a spot (although I happily share responsibility with our Lord Mayor, Clover Moore), so I suppose it’s inevitable I’d agree with that.
ING says that this makes an attractive recipe for commuting to work each day, and it also helps riders avoid busy public transport (26%) and is a quicker commute (27%).
Probably true enough, but ING might be stretching it a bit when they insist that “even non-motorcycle riders can see the commuting benefits amid COVID-19, with a fifth (18%)
considering riding a motorcycle as an easy way to get around and almost one in 10 (9%) believe it is a way to escape busy routes to work.” So, eighty-two percent of drivers wouldn’t get on a bike if you paid them, and ninety-one percent can’t see the point.
Still, toujours gai, as Mehitabel the cat used to say, toujours gai.
“‘The research suggests the pandemic has many reassessing their daily commute… With price and convenience benefits along with mental health and wellbeing perks, why wouldn’t you consider it!’ says ING’s Cathy Duncan.”
Why not indeed. Cathy, as the Head of Wealth, what do you ride to work? I’ll bet it’s an MV Agusta, Serie Oro! D
Sydney City Council has made some substantial areas available as bike parking.
Being able to use bus lanes makes life easier for Uber and other food deliverers.
THERE ARE TWO THINGS
TRUNDLE THROUGH NUNDLE
Ducati club members will know this
WORDS THE BEAR
the Liverpool Plains in New South Wales are not. They aren’t anywhere near Liverpool, the thriving metropolis to the south of Sydney, and they are far from plain. Indeed, they present a wonderful rolling countryside that might have been made for motorcycling. One of the most enjoyable ways to tackle them is by cutting across from the New England Highway to the Bucketts Way and on to the Pacific Highway, through Nundle.
WALLABADAH
On the New England Highway, Wallabadah is a small but pleasant township with a small but pleasant pub in the Marshal MacMahon and an equally small but pleasant café across the road which used to make excellent hamburgers. The only reason I write “used to” is that I haven’t sampled them lately; it may well be that they still do. Drop me a line if you try them.
NUNDLE
The heart of this route is Nundle, a pretty town with wide and wellmaintained streets, parks and lots of visitor accommodation. I last stayed at the pub, the Peel Inn, which has old-fashioned but comfortable rooms and an airy deck at the back where it is more than pleasant to kick back and enjoy a cooling ale and a meal. Parking for bikes is available under cover if you’re quick, but there doesn’t seem to be any security. Mind you, I doubt if anyone in Nundle would bother stealing a motorcycle.
PINK ROUTE
It’s about 240km from Wallabadah to Gloucester, which should take you less than three hours if you’re just riding. Turn right about seven and a half kilometres north of Wallabadah and then left again at the T-intersection. Turn around in Nundle and head north. Turn right in Dungowan. Plenty of stops recommend themselves, not only at Nundle but also along the way. If you find yourself a little short on fuel when you get to Dungowan, carry on to Nemingha and fill up. There is not much fuel along the way. The yellowpages.com. au site reckons that there are 35 Service Stations in Nowendoc, but all I’ve ever been able to find is a single shop that has a couple of pumps. The other 34 servos must be virtual ones.
The most interesting part of this ride is Port Stephens Cutting, which in line with the local sense of humor (see ‘Liverpool Plains’) is neither a cutting nor anywhere near Port Stephens. The Geoview website reckons it is 0.05km long, but I’d have to say that it’s the longest 50 metres I’ve ever ridden… in fact it’s probably three or four kilometers long, depending on where you start and finish your measuring. It is twisty, narrow (sometimes one-way), off-camber, littered with rocks and a huge amount of fun. Do not miss it if you find yourself in the area.
Something like half of this route is along Thunderbolts Way which has, fortunately, seen quite a bit of roadwork but is still rough in places. It’s a good, fast run except when the Highway Patrol car is out.
ORANGE ROUTE
This is just the short run up the hill from Nundle to Hanging Rock, but it’s worth its own entry because it is such a lot of fun. No wonder the Ducati Club of NSW has its rally here. Watch out for log trucks, though.
YELLOW ROUTE
You can carry on from Hanging Rock along forestry roads to join the pink route above Port Stephens Cutting. I did this some years ago on a Moto Guzzi Le Mans, and while I won’t say I was sorry I will say I would have preferred knobby tyres.
There is a motel across the road, a terrific b&b in an old bank building just up along a few metres where I stayed a couple of years ago, and the spacious caravan park. Despite all this, the town does get booked out so check with your chosen accommodation before you rock up expecting a bed.
Attractions in town include the famous Nundle Woolen Mills and a gold mining museum, both well within walking distance even for sedentary motorcyclists.
HANGING ROCK
Sadly, I have yet to see anything resembling a hanging rock at Hanging Rock, but maybe I should ask. This little place does not have any shops, but there is a terrific lookout over Nundle and the hills beyond to the west.
DUNGOWAN
Well, it has a nice-looking pub right on the main road. Other than that you’ve got me: if there are any attractions apart from that, I am totally unaware of them.
NOWENDOC
Occasionally used as an example of somewhere that is in the middle of nowhere, Nowendoc is just off Thunderbolts Way. I don’t know why, but I seem to stop here for an ice cream on a regular basis. The bloke in the shop is agreeable.
BARRINGTON
If you’re running low on fuel you will be very pleased to see the petrol station at Barrington. Apart from that it’s just a kind of suburb of Gloucester (although I imagine I will be tarred and feathered next time I stop there when the locals discover I wrote that). Watch the speed limits between here and Gloucester.
GLOUCESTER
You’re in the middle of the Bucketts Way here and you can carry on east to the Pacific Highway or south to the Pacific Highway. Hmm. I guess it depends on whether you want to take a look at the Australian Motorcycle Museum or get home to Sydney. The town is a little old-fashioned and the main street is narrow, but you can still usually find parking for Thunderbolt’s or Roadies, the excellent cafés. They cater to motorcyclists and the food is good. There’s fuel on the way out of town to the south. The Bucketts Way Motel which Mrs Bear and I have frequented at times lies at the northern end of the main street, and there is plenty of other accommodation. D
WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT?
DUCATI V4 ENGINE CHANGES
WHEN CHECKING
OUT THE specs on any Ducati engine since the late seventies, Ducati engines have always had Desmodromic valve control. Desmo actuation continues in the latest V4 Panigale based engine. However, for the 2021 V4 Multistrada, Ducati has gone away from this tradition and set up the V4’s valves with springs, like just about every other four-stroke motorcycle engine on the planet.
The Multistrada is Ducati’s most popular model, and creating a new edition powered by a V4 that has very relaxed 60,000 kilometre service intervals is extremely wise from a marketing point of view –remember the bike will still need servicing at least once a year no matter what kilometres it has been ridden.
The new engine with its conventional Double Over Head Cam (DOHC) spring-over-valve design which replaces Ducati’s famous desmo valve train in the 2021 Multistrada V4 has been called “Granturismo”, an obvious reference to its medium performance level, by Ducati standards. It might well end up powering a whole new generation of Ducati models which does not yet exist. It is Euro 5 homologated and 1158cc in capacity, with an 83mm bore and 53.5mm
stroke, and generates a claimed 125kW at 10,500rpm and 125Nm at 8750rpm, which puts it ahead of anything from the competition. It has been rationally conceived to keep its cost as competitive as possible despite remarkable technology that is clearly based on the Panigale V4, as confirmed by the crankshaft with crankpins set at 70 degrees for a 0-90270-380 firing sequence that generates impulses sounding almost like those of a 90-degree V-twin. The crankshaft that counterrotates to reduce the gyro effect, in combination with the rotation of the wheels, makes for a smoother steering response.
The compression ratio at 14:1 is particularly impressive, while valve diameter (33.5mm inlet and 26.8mm exhaust) appears relatively small in relation to the unit displacement, resulting in a very compact combustion chamber design. Valves are directly actuated by dual overhead camshafts via finger-type cam followers.
To obtain a sufficiently fat torque curve and enhance low-end response, inlet runners are very long and the throttle bodies have relatively small diameters in relation to the unit displacement of 46mm. To reduce thermal discomfort in downtown traffic, the pair of rear cylinders, those closer to the seat, can be deactivated,
which simultaneously reduces fuel consumption. The dry sump lubrication uses three pumps, one delivery and two drainage.
Compared to the 2020 L-twin Multistrada, the new V4 engine is 85mm shorter, 95mm lower and only 20mm wider. In addition, weight has been reduced by 1.2kg – this will no doubt result in better handling too. So, that’s a quick rundown on the 2021 Granturismo Ducati V4 powerplant. We can’t wait to jump on the bike it is powering and really feel how good this engine can be. D WORDS
V4 Granturismo
MAIN TECHNICAL DATA
● Bore x stroke 83 x 53.5mm
● 1158cc, 4-cylinder, 90° V engine
● Compression ratio 14:1
● Maximum power 125kW at 10,500rpm
● Maximum torque 125Nm at 8750rpm
● Euro 5 homologation
● Distribution part chain, part geartiming with dual overhead camshaft, 4 valves per cylinder
● Counter-rotating crankshaft with crank pins offset at 70°
● Wet multiplate anti-patter servo clutch
● Semi-dry sump lubrication with three oil pumps: 1 delivery and 2 return
● Fuelling with four oval throttle bodies (46 mm diameter equivalent)
● 6-speed gearbox with Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) Up & Down System
● 60,000 km maintenance valves interval
CLASSICAL GAS
IF YOU WANT TO be competitive in Historic Racing, a BMW twin is probably not the first bike on your wish list. Built by meticulous Germans as dependable touring bikes they’re not renowned for either handling or power, neither are they lightweight or compact, so really, there’s not much going for them as a race bike. That of course, is the fun of it; taking the most unlikely bike and turning it into a race winner.
That’s just what John Downs along with friend and tuner Jim Cray of Cray Engineering in England has done. After several years racing a Norton twin in the UK’s Classic Racing Motorcycle Club, John was looking to upgrade to a more competitive ride. “The Norton was an original 1964 Atlas engine in a featherbed frame,” says John, “ it was good for a top ten finish and the occasional podium, I even won a couple of races, usually in the wet, but at that time the Rob North triples were really the thing to have unless you went for a re-engineered Norton which were just starting to come out. People like Steve Maney were just bringing out their strengthened Norton crankcases and barrels which is what limited the Norton’s power output, but mine was all original and already 30 years old. The crankcases had cracked and been welded once already so getting more power out of it was just going to be a disaster waiting to happen.
controllable... I should have just bought one straight away but they were so expensive. You could buy one built to order at that time for £13,000 which was about $40,000 Australian. Well out of my price range even if I built it myself, I needed to find a cheaper way to get competitive.”
being loaded into the van and driven to France.
John was never happy riding some else’s bike. “It put a strain on our friendship, there was pressure to win and I was just doing it for fun. I’m pretty easy going and although like any racer I want to win, I’m quite philosophical if it doesn’t go my way. However, Jim was using the bike to promote his business and wanted it up the front every time. Eventually he got another rider to replace me, but by that time I knew I needed a BMW myself.”
John set about building his own bike; the one that you see in the photos here. Using the experience of riding Cray’s bike, he decided to build one with the same spec engine, but lower, lighter and tailor-made to suit his small build.
“I was lent a Rob North Trident at one race meeting and it was so good to ride. Compared to the Norton it was like an arcade game... you just pointed it at a corner and that’s where it went. No fuss, no hassles, just perfectly neutral steering and it felt so instinctive; you could tell the limits right away and when it stepped out it was progressive and
John’s friend Jim Cray had been working on a BMW race bike and when it was finished John rode it in its first race at the Circuit Carole near Paris. Jim’s BMW came second overall and first in class. Overall winner was French 500cc Grand Prix racer Phillippe Monneret on an XR 750 Harley. Not a bad result for a bike that was finished less than an hour before
The original BMW chassis has a high wide seat for touring and John couldn’t even get his feet on the ground, and Jim’s bike had a big 5-gallon tank which made it physically bulky. He set about finding parts as cheaply as possible. “I’ve always been on a tight budget, but with a bit of ingenuity it’s possible to get a bike together at a reasonable cost.”
A bit of serendipity helped out; as he was walking home from the shops
CLASSICAL GAS
near his South London home, John passed an open garage door to see a BMW racing sidecar outfit and an array of BMWs in various stages of repair. It turned out to be TT racer, Adrian Rivett who supplied a used frame, a set of crankcases and various parts at a very reasonable price. More importantly he provided a wealth of knowledge which, along with Jim Cray’s advice, proved invaluable in getting a competitive bike together. The frame was an insurance write off that had a minute but measurable change to the steering head angle. It was half a degree too steep so the insurance company wrote it off!
The frame went off to Richard Peckett, better known as the “P” of P&M chassis fame. He braced it in the traditional way of BMWs
the alloy tank to fit based on a sketch that John gave him. “John Pearson had a reputation for being difficult to deal with. If he took a dislike to you, you’d never get your tank made. But he made the tanks for the Gus Kuhn BMW endurance racers of the 1970s and he seemed interested in the fact that I was racing a BMW so it took him less than a week to produce what I think is a work of art,” says John. “He asked me why I was racing a BMW and my reply of ‘I’m just naturally contrary’ amused him and maybe appealed to his own maverick nature.”
“BUILT BY METICULOUS GERMANS AS DEPENDABLE TOURING BIKES THEY’RE NOT RENOWNED FOR EITHER HANDLING OR POWER NEITHER ARE THEY LIGHTWEIGHT OR COMPACT, SO REALLY, THERE’ NOT MUCH GOING FOR THEM AS A RACE BIKE.”
by adding bolt on tubes to the sides and constructed a lower, narrower subframe that held the P&M race seat. The seat also neatly houses the oil breather tank. Once the frame was braced and the seat fitted, the whole chassis was taken to legendary tank maker John Pearson who hand made
A pair of Marzocchi forks were sourced from a wreckers and a little bit of lathe time persuaded the Honda CB750 front wheel and discs to join forces with the Brembo brakes. Once a pair of Koni shocks arrived for the rear along with Morad alloy rims on both wheels, a rolling chassis was ready. The engine was initially built as a 750cc unit, to get more races in a day; most race meetings had a Formula 750 race and an unlimited race but ultimately John realised that it would work better as a 1000cc bike, so it was back to Jim Cray for an upgrade. The pistons are from Mahle and are 16mm shorter than standard ones. This means you have to machine 16mm from the cylinders which makes the engine 32mm narrower
than stock which is a big advantage on a wide engine like this. The engine mounts were also raised to give better ground clearance. Ground clearance was always a problem on BMW racers as the rocker covers would scrape on the ground and eventually wear right through. The skid plates you can see in the pictures are a result of Motorcycling Australia’s rulebook which mandates reinforced engines to stop oil leaks in the event of a crash.
“At the time there was very little on the market for hotting up a BMW twin. CC products in the US sold Venolia pistons and other bits and pieces but nothing like the gear that’s available today. There are several suppliers who sell piston and cylinder kits, an array of cams and valves and lightweight lifters, but none of that was around in the mid ’90s when we put this together.”
It has standard BMW conrods, a genuine BMW ‘sports cam’ which one current BMW tuner describes as useful only as a paperweight. However, as Jim Cray says, “This engine makes its power mainly through the gas-flow job. That’s Jim’s forte. He worked his genius on the BMW’s ports which in standard state could be generously described as below par. A pair of 40mm Dellorto carbs complete the inlet side and Jim made the twin exhausts which end up in Supertrapp megaphones.
“I’ve heard many people bagging the Supertrapps, but they’ve worked well on the dyno and one of the original reasons for fitting them was
CLASSICAL GAS
the ability to change the number of diffuser discs to alter the noise level. Noise limits were being reduced by the UK governing body and the Supertrapps allow you to make those adjustments without buying a new exhaust every year.”
Once it was all together, a day at the dyno eventually produced 92 horsepower at the rear wheel. As we all know readings from different dynos can vary quite substantially and while a Dynojet showed 92 horsepower, a Dyno Dynamics gave the same bike 85 horsepower. Peak power is at 7000RPM (the original redline) but it will safely run up to 8500, although no more power is available, but its big plus point is the torque. It peaks at 4500 which hurls it out of corners in a way four-cylinder bikes can only dream of.
straight. There’s a kink in the road there that other guys claimed to take without lifting off, but I just couldn’t do it. Every lap I tried to persuade myself to hold the throttle wide, but I always backed off a little. Either way, I won there four years running so I can’t have been doing it too bad.”
Further into the Ardennes region of Belgium is the village of Jehonville where they also close the roads once a year for historic racing. The circuit’s slower than Chimay but no less scary. “Barbed wire lines some sections and you really don’t want to lose your brakes going into turn two or you’ll end up in a barn!” says John. “I got a couple of second places at Jehonville the only time I went there. Local rider Eric Genin was unbeatable there. I think he’s a race school instructor and rumour had it that the locals closed the roads for him to have private practice sessions.”
“THE FRAME WAS AN INSURANCE WRITE OFF THAT HAD A MINUTE BUT MEASURABLE CHANGE TO THE STEERING HEAD ANGLE.”
On the track John had considerable success in the UK and in Europe. “I do miss the racing scene in Europe. The Belgians will close the roads for historic racing in various towns around the country. We went to Chimay which is like a mini Isle of Man. It’s 4.8km of perfect road surface and blindingly fast. I used the tallest gearing I could find and it was screaming up to 8500 towards the turn at the end of the downhill
Back in the UK the BMW elevated John from a top ten runner to regular podium placing in CRMC meetings with the occasional win. The power that Jim Cray extracted from the flat twin was obviously a major factor in that, but it wasn’t as easy as it might seem.
“It wasn’t what you’d call a fine handling bike. I had to do a lot of work to get it handling reasonably well,” John explains “Even with the bracing, the frame was quite flexible. The engine is mounted by two bolts on the lower frame rails, nothing else. Most bikes have a head steady
that stiffens up the headstock region, but there’s nothing like that on the BMW. I put in an additional gearbox mount that triangulates the top of the gearbox to the top frame tube. That made a big difference especially as the gearbox is trying to twist in the frame as the drive shaft imparts torque to the rear wheel.” One of the things that makes a BMW a bit of a handful is the shaft effect. As you accelerate the shaft tries to extend the rear suspension and as you brake, it tends to squat. That might seem good for reducing wheelies and improving braking stability, but the practical effect on a race bike is you get better ground clearance with some throttle applied.
“If you go into a corner a bit hot and find a cylinder head scraping on the ground, the worst thing you can do is shut the throttle. Shutting the throttle reduces the ground clearance even more and the head will dig into the track and probably have you off!”
15 years ago, John emigrated to Australia bringing the BMW with him.
“I’d put so much time and effort into building the bike, I couldn’t bring myself to sell it. When you build a bike with your own hands it becomes something special so it had to come with me.”
Work commitments mean the bike doesn’t get out as much as John would like, but he won the unlimited race at Lakeside’s Lord of the Lake last year and came 4th in the Aussie Championships the year before that. Not bad for a bike whose frame literally came out of a skip. D
Himalayan Heights Spectacular South Africa
Dalmatian Delights Beautiful Baltics
Moroccan Magic Incredible Iceland
Yaks ‘n’ Yetis
Awesome Andes
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.
AWESOME DESTINATIONS #3
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 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 bike.
Despite what decades of repeated war films might suggest, Vietnam has so much more to offer than tunnels and booby traps. Name another Asian country that has been so heavily featured in popular films, books and TV shows in the last thirty years. From incredible mountain passes in the North, across bamboo bridges and on to some of the most intense city riding in the world, riding this country is a fascinating experience. You’ll be humbled by the hospitality from people with nothing more than the food they’ve grown, pleasantly surprised by just how good the road riding is and staggered at what people can carry on a cheap moped.
The roads
We’ve ridden fantastic roads all over the
world, from European mountain passes to the gravelly plains of the Patagonian Steppe, but we never expected to find some of the best riding ever in Northern Vietnam. The riding is simply incredible; take the Black River road north of Dien Bien Phu to Phong Tho clinging to the cliffs over the river. Leaving Ha Giang where 180 kilometres takes most of the day and you’ll rarely reach for fourth gear. Endless second and third gear bends wind through an unworldly backdrop of pointy mountains, all queuing for your attention as they fade off into the distance. The Don Van Karst Plateau is like a real world video game, the constant changes of direction and surface all to a back drop of a James Cameron film set. Some of the hairpins are just fantastic; watching overloaded pickups scrape their bodywork, tyres spinning as they try to cope with the steep, tight turns, really hammers home how challenging parts of this road are. The people up here don’t see many big bikes on the roads so you have to stay sharp. The surface is a mix of asphalt and gravel, and you will meet some head-on overtakes –you are a bike and therefore a scooter
so you are expected to move over and use the scooter lane, or ‘shoulder’ to you and me. But the roads are so much fun to ride; a proper challenge against a crazy skyline and you haven’t even ventured into the cities yet!
The weather
The rainy season is best avoided unless you really, really like puddles, so November through to March is the best time to head to Vietnam. If you’re planning to see the whole country, prepare for temperatures in the thirties down South, while in the mountains up North it can drop down to single digit temperatures overnight.
The non-rainy season is actually winter, so you can still get rain, fog and even ice in the mountains. The alternative is riding in summer when it is 40 degrees Celsius down south and humid as hell, plus when it rains, it rains hard. The upside of summer is that the rice paddies are a stunning bright green, a minor solace when your boots are sloshing full of water.
The best places to visit
Sometimes you just have to hit the tourist spots. Don’t get us wrong, we love an undiscovered treasure, but occasionally you have to remember why the tourist spots became popular
in the first place. Ha Long Bay is a magical place and there’s no better way to enjoy it than by splashing out on a boat trip out among the towering columns of limestone. Unwinding here on the calm waters provides the perfect respite after the twisting, challenging roads of the Dong Van Karst plateau. By comparison, visiting Ho Chi Minh city and the war remnants museum and the nearby Cu Chi War Tunnels is far less tranquil, but a thought-provoking and culturally challenging experience. There are some heart-wrenching stories here and whatever your view on it, seeing accounts of the Vietnam war (or the American war as the Vietnamese call it) from another point of view is fascinating. A couple of the more graphic exhibitions will leave you with a lump in your throat and a tear in your eye. The Vietnamese have a frank, blunt approach to their historical accounts that does little to dress up the brutal realities of conflict, but seemingly there is no lasting anger or angst.
The bits to avoid
In the cities, watch out for the minibuses. The city traffic appears to be complete chaos at first glance, but it’s chaotic courtesy; everybody makes room for everybody else, all bizarrely without making eye contact at any point. There seem to be two rules: pull whatever manoeuvre you like, but do it smoothly and don’t look. If I haven’t seen you, it’s your job to avoid me. The only exceptions to the rule seem to be the aggressive minibus drivers - they are pretty erratic and need to be given a wide
berth when you’re riding a bike. On the subject of roads, be aware that motorcycles are not allowed on the major highways in Vietnam. Finally, make sure your paperwork is spot on. Large hire bikes are not available in Vietnam so we come in from Laos. The paperwork to get a bike across the border is pretty intense. Vietnam has its own special blend of evolving rules, incredible bureaucracy and complicated permissions, the outcome of which is an inch-thick stack of papers and a fairly hasslefree experience if you’ve got the right local agent. If you haven’t, well better get comfortable, you could be there a while or more likely not crossing at all.
The food
It might not be a destination widely associated with great cuisine, but in fact the food is pretty damn good in Vietnam. There are some great local lunch stops in small villages and the high quality restaurants in the evenings always impress, especially in some of the more remote areas. Despite the acres of coffee plantations, most of the stuff you can buy locally is this hot thick sludge that you stir ice into and add chicory. It’s like an espresso-sized cup of triple-strength coffee and if you want milk, it’ll be condensed and from a tin – a bit of an acquired taste.
Who is Motoradd Tours
Motorrad Tours is an Official Travel Partner of BMW Motorrad, founded by Richard Millington, the man behind the words inw this feature. Richard has years of experience and literally millions of miles of route planning and tour delivery under his belt. Between Richard and his team of tour leaders, they have a comprehensive knowledge of the best riding destinations on planet Earth and they’ve spent the last decade perfecting riding adventures around them. From the Highlands of Scotland to the rice paddies of Vietnam, Motorrad Tours trips keep people coming back time and time again. So if you want to see the best a country has to offer the adventurous motorcyclist, give Motorrad Tours a call on +44 (0)1622 776686 or log onto their website motorrad-tours. com to see where they are headed to next, once they can.
Our favourite bit Who knew it was possible to have a favourite bridge? Not us, but after riding the bridge to the Ganh Da Dia peninsula, we have a winner. This is no ordinary bridge; imagine a vast, cable-laden suspension or a towering,
arched viaduct; well this is nothing like those. Loose planks lie haphazardly on a bamboo frame, stretching 750 metres across the water, with nothing but an optimistic bamboo guardrail to keep you from a short drop and a splash. It is, arguably, wide enough for two bikes, but only if you squeeze right over to miss the oncoming scooters. Riding across, the whole structure bounces up and down and just to add to the fun, all this movement has worked out the nails holding the planks in place, adding punctures to the growing list of hazards. It is nuts, sketchy, hilarious and so, so far removed from the regulated, patrolled roads back home. Vietnam surprises most people. The stunning scenery and friendly people are part of the well-documented South East Asian charm, but the great riding roads and sheer variety of scenery and lifestyles will blow you away. From sitting, choked up talking to the old man crippled by the effects of chemical warfare to staring speechless at a landscape so jagged, so alien it should be CGI. You’ll whoop and holler with joy at the bends that just kept on coming and laugh hysterically at the wildest, yet bizarrely logical city traffic you have ever seen. From mountains and rice paddies, to the tumultuous cities of Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi, Vietnam is incredible. D
IT WAS THE BEST of times, it was the worst of times – so started the classic Tale of Two Cities.
And so, amid the shit fight that is covid-19, the Cat Herders managed to get to a couple of rallies that were run along different lines in order to comply with the Government dictates of the hour.
The BMWTCNSW could not run their usual show at the Tottenham Racecourse due to the restrictions then in place concerning distancing and numbers, so, clever lads that they are, they came up with an alternative.
The Club decided to run a virtual rally with a twist. Instead of riding out to Tottenham for the weekend 18 – 20 September the cunning plan was to spread the love.
To be deemed to have attended the rally, all you had to do was attend Tottenham sometime in September and take a photo in front of a landmark such as the Cairn or the pub and submit that with your
money to the Club, and BINGO, you had been to the rally. Badges to be forwarded by mail at a later date.
The Cat Herders spent the Saturday getting to Cowra in order to ensure we had everyone, as they came from various point of the compass. Then there was a 260ish km ride out to Tottenham for an overnight stay at the pub.
We found there was no electricity west of Forbes due to scheduled maintenance by the supplier, but fortunately the pub has a generator, so the beer was cold.
Everyone was astonished at the difference a year and a good bit of rain had made. In 2019 there was hardly a blade of grass west of Lithgow, and this year the country looked really good, with crops almost as high as the fences in places. Livestock was in short supply though, most had been sold off during the drought, or died.
Monday morning saw a quick run out to the Cairn for some photos to prove attendance, and then the show
1. Henning with carby issues.
2. Far Cairn proves they arrived.
3.The award ceremony was dry. 1 2
got on the road and headed for home.
At the Kosciusko Rally the following month, I ran into Rick, the President of the BMWTCNSW and he reported the Club had been able to make all their usual donation from funds raised due to the online entries received. Additional feedback from the town indicted more money spent across the whole month by riders passing through than usually happens on the single weekend the rally normally occupies.
Rick did give a commitment that the Far Cairn will be back live at Tottenham next September so mark it down now.
And now to the month of October and the Kosciusko Rally.
National Parks and Wildlife, which runs the Kosciusko National Park, placed a number of restrictions on the BMW Club ACT which actually worked in favour of the Club.
There was a cap placed on the number of persons allowed at the camp site which meant the Club advertised as “first in, best dressed”,
with pre-paid entries only, via the Club website.
This also allowed the Club to accurately cater for the evening meal Saturday and breakfast Sunday, as those meals had to be paid for up front with the entry fee.
As a result, the full number of people on site as allowed by National Parks was in attendance, which was actually more than attended in either 2018 or 2019.
The Cat Herders arrived Friday about lunch time, having ridden in and out of rain from Thredbo down past Tom Groggin to the rally site.
The hasty erection of a large tarp provided some shelter and tents were put up between showers to provide somewhere dry-ish to sleep later. The rain continued on and off, until clearing up sometime during the night.
Saturday was a wonderful day of blue skies and sunshine as more riders turned up through the day.
Saturday evening saw Garry, the Club President, welcome everyone and proceed directly to the raffle. BMW
1. She was a wet one for the first day!
2. Cat Herders in the Canola.
3.The 1.4 million km Kawa.
4. ‘Sign’ of the times.
Group Australia supplied the first prize, a fancy BMW roll top dry bag, which was won by Ruth from Sydney. There was a pretty good selection of prizes of lesser value that went to the assembled punters with Raymond from Albury winning two, while I picked up a tool roll (without tools).
One of the bikes in attendance was a Z1000ST Kawasaki which the current owner claimed had 1.4 million km on the clock. This thing has had a number of owners and been rebuilt a number of times following fires that happened during burnout competitions, blow-ups while drag racing (on dirt, sand and tarmac), and other unspecified incidents. Of note was the La Parisienne fairing it sports
– made long ago by the Bear’s sadly deceased mate, Bertrand the Frog.
Following a bacon and egg roll Sunday morning and the usual pack up, we got on the road for our various routes home. Due to Covid roadblocks at the Victorian Border, I detoured via Tumbarumba where the bakery in the main street was going full steam – highly recommended.
Next year will see the 40th Kosciusko Rally being conducted, so
mark that one in too as it is a great camping spot with terrific roads all around. (The Bear, Stuart and Ralph might even show up! – Ed)
The Ducati Club of NSW had their Thunder Rally listed for the same weekend as the Kosciusko, but due to the restrictions and other factors were forced to cancel the event. I hope they don’t clash next year as I want to do them both! (You reading this, Aunty Mal? – Ed). D
“Few places in this world are more dangerous than home. Fear not, therefore, to try the mountain passes. They will kill care, save you from deadly apathy, set you free, and call forth every faculty into vigorous, enthusiastic action.”
–
JOHN MUIR THE MOUNTAINS OF CALIFORNIA
AMERICAN PRESIDENTS
ONCE HAD the time and the inclination to go camping for a few nights with environmental activists. It was Theodore Roosevelt who headed out in 1903 with the co-founder of the Sierra Club John Muir, to enjoy the wilderness of Yosemite Valley. Having shown the President the beauty of Mariposa Grove, Sentinel Dome and Bridal Veil Falls, Muir urged him to set aside land for national parks - starting with Yosemite. It took three years, but Roosevelt came good and not only created Yosemite National Park but added a grand total of 148 million acres to parks nationwide.
For motorcyclists, the ideal way to enjoy these parks as well as a lot of other wonderful scenery is the American Scenic Byway network. These roads, all over the US including Alaska and Hawaii, are designed to make the most of the land they traverse and are signposted to make them easy to follow. Often they provide access to places you’d never reach by road otherwise, and just as often they are brilliant motorcycling roads.
You can find them easily at scenicbyways.info. This outstanding website includes not only a comprehensive list but also an excellent interactive map. There are five different kinds of byways. The first, and particularly special roads are called All-American Roads. They include Scenic Byway 12 in Utah, a road you will have read about in these pages, and even the Las Vegas Strip. Some of them are singled out as Parkways, including the like of the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Natchez Trace.
Then there are the National Scenic Byways, and there are lots of those including the Great River Road - you will have read about that here, too –and the Mount Hood Scenic Byway. Possibly even more interesting to us as riders are the National Forest Scenic Byways. These tend to be in less developed country and include such roads as the Great Divide Highway and the Lady Slipper Scenic Byway at the head of the Mississippi. The Bureau of Land Management has
its own selection as well with the BLM Back Country Byways, some of which are a bit rougher and more demanding. The website also includes a listing of a huge number of ‘Other’ Scenic Roads, and these might be the most interesting of all. Among them is one of my very favourite roads in the United States, Bayou Teche Scenic Byway. If you want to see the Old South, and especially Acadiana, this is the road to follow. Mind you, it’s more than just a little complex!
You can see a map of the Bayou Teche road on the website, because this is fully interactive. Below the general map of the US there is a list of States; click on the one you’re interested in and it takes you to a map of the State showing its Byways; click on those and you get a general description, length and driving time plus a more detailed map which also shows mountains. You can also click on the names of the roads in the main listing to get the same information. Not all that glisters, as Shakespeare
had it, is gold. There are some notable problems with the classifications. Not all that’s listed is scenic. Some routes seem to have been selected by the local chamber of commerce with a view to maximizing passing trade. These spend an unconscionable length of time in business districts rather than in scenic environments. This is easy to forgive when it’s necessary to connect two or more truly scenic stretches of road, but that’s not always the case. As well, one qualification seems to be that the road runs through forest. Now I’m as fond of trees as the next bear, but not when it’s all you get to see. But I don’t want to cavil. Go with mild expectations and you will almost always be surprised -- in a good way. The information pages also show you some books that you might like to buy and read about your upcoming travels, along with details of how to buy them. And something else makes this website interesting, and useful. It provides free and as far as I can see unlimited access to trip planning software called Furcot. Here’s some of what the pleasantly cheerful site says about itself.
The Riders Tour
Paradise Motorcycle Tours 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 you’ll 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 – 21 February 2021
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PHONE + 64 27 476 5035
EMAIL info@paradisemotorcycletours.co.nz
Furcot is “a trip planning application. It’s delivered directly to your browser through magic of the Internet, so you don’t have to buy or install anything and it works out of the box on your desktop, laptop, tablet, and phone… you may not like Furkot [because] you may not need it at all. If you never wanted to know how many days it would take to ride comfortably from Miami to Yellowstone. If you only ever ride spontaneous day trips. If you have one of those magical bikes with unlimited fuel supply. If you’re OK with sleeping on the side of the road or have enough spare cash to show up at the most expensive hotel in town and demand the always available presidential suite that have never seen any president... Then you probably have no use for Furkot.
“Think about Furkot as you think about your dear, somewhat obtuse, smart - but not street smart - mate (yeah, there are people using Furkot in Australia). Hey, why don’t we go to Yellowstone this weekend you say. And Furkot says: sure, but it will take 3 days
just to get there even if we don’t stop to see anything on our way. Spoilsport. Did we mention that spontaneity is hard for computers?”
You can sign up to get continuity of any trips you may plan, but there is no requirement to do that. Looks good to me; I signed up quite a while back. I should warn you at this point of allowing your mind to be saturated by all of this information. It’s best to go riding with a fresh and clear mind –not an uninformed one, but not a fully made up one, either. John Muir pointed out the dangers in his book Travels in Alaska, where he says “Most people who travel look only at what they are directed to look at. Great is the power of the guidebook maker, however ignorant.”
One last point, and a call to action. I occasionally cop criticism for writing about overseas destinations rather than Australia, especially now with all the travel limitations. There are many reasons why I do this, but in this case there is one simple overarching one:
no Australian government has seen fit to create anything like the Scenic Byways network in the US, and I really wanted to promote it. We have a few token efforts: the Great Ocean Road, the Great Eastern Drive, the Great Alpine Road and a couple of others. But there’s no consistency and no unified attempt to provide information and accessibility.
The various permutations of scenic roads in the US are good for lots of people: motorcyclists, other travelers and especially small local businesses. Please consider getting in touch with your State but especially your Federal members of parliament and letting them know that we want – indeed need – something like this. Or isn’t our country beautiful enough? D
HIGHLIGHTS
Riding in Austrian Alps, Budapest, Prague, Cesky Krumlov, Salzburg, Krakow, High Tatras
Czech Hungary Tour
BMW GS OFF ROAD Training is Australia’s official Off Road Rider Training Partner to BMW Motorrad Australia. It is a partnership that began in 2013 with Shane Booth and Chris Urquhart’s company Motodevelopment. It’s grown from around ten 2-day courses nationally in 2013 to now consistently running over 25 2-day courses each year. GS Off Road Training offers the most experienced and professional off road adventure rider training available in the country, Shane and Chris have over 40 years of professional rider training experience between them and both have spent essentially their entire life riding motorcycles off road. They are both Motorcycling Australia Level 2 accredited coaches and also BMW International Instructor Academy Certified Instructors. From professional racing through to rider coaching and now adventure riding there isn’t much, if anything, they haven’t experienced off road on a motorcycle. Their goal is to share as much of that experience with riders through their courses. I’ve ridden with both Shane and Chris and know you will have a great time learning new skills with them. The easier it is to handle your adventure bike off road, the more fun you’ll have. Let’s hand over to Shane Booth to give us a run-down of what is on offer and what to expect at one of their courses.
SW
THE MOST COMMON
QUESTION we are asked is what off road riding experience do I need to have to attend a course. The answer is simple, none. Our Adventure Skills course is designed to build confidence just as much as skill for riders looking to leave the comfort of a sealed road. We love seeing riders turn up at our course having zero off road experience, it’s great to watch their confidence grow over the two days. This isn’t to say it’s for beginners only though, many experienced adventure riders have attended multiple Adventure Skills courses to help sharpen up their riding and build confidence riding their bike.
we will adapt the course to suit the skill level of the group, always looking to help riders increase their skill and confidence. While the majority of our courses require the entrant to be riding a BMW we do offer selected courses that are open to all brands of adventure bike. Having said that, this is the first step for BMW customers into the range of events like the BMW Safari which are organised exclusively for BMW GS riders. BMW Motorrad Australia loves seeing riders out on their bikes and enjoying this amazing country we have for adventure riding, our job is to make that as easy and hassle free as possible.
Our courses are very structured but not “text book” coaching,
Another factor that is very important is the team of Instructors that works with us to ensure the customers receive the very best and most professional training available. Chris and I are generally at all of our courses, although sometimes dates clash
and we run courses at the same time in different locations. Craig Bernard is our right-hand man and has been at almost every course for the past 5 years, with a wealth of adventure riding experience he is a key part of the program. Miles Davis is our only other head instructor who runs courses without Chris or me in attendance. MD is a Motorcycling Australia Level 2 accredited coach and also a BMW International Instructor Academy Certified Instructor. We have him to thank for our start with BMW back in 2013 and although we go back way before that it is great to still be working closely with MD and he’s a valued part of our team.
Backing all of us up is a crew of talented riders and instructors; Adam Schipper, Andrew Spence, Jordan Bissaker, Greg Masters and Tim Dimond have been hand-picked to ensure our customers receive only the very best experience at our courses.
GS Off Road Training has expanded from 2 course types in 2013 to now offering seven different courses and potentially an eighth for 2021. This helps riders continue to learn and expand their knowledge while also allowing them to gain the type of training they are looking for. We are also constantly adding new venues to our calendar, it’s always great to head somewhere new and over the years it’s been popular for customers to attend additional courses at new venues as each location offers something different. Here is a rundown of the courses we currently offer.
ADVENTURE SKILLS
Adventure Skills is your core adventure rider training course for riders who have zero off road riding experience through to adventure riders looking for more control and confidence off road. This is far from a basic course, you will learn loads of core skills for handling your adventure bike off road; learn how to be comfortable with the size and weight of your bike, clutch and throttle skills, brake skill, hill recovery, climbing and descending hills, cornering and more.
ADVENTURE EXPERT
Our Adventure Expert course is where you start to expand on your riding skill base, learn to be more accurate and fine tune your control skills. Start learning how to read the surface and choose better lines through terrain. The hill sessions will be more technical and challenging along with increased focus on cornering. We recommend attending an Adventure Skills course prior to taking this course.
ADVENTURE PRO
Course locations
DARGLE, NSW
MT SEAVIEW, NSW PACIFIC PARK, NSW
QUEENSLAND MOTO PARK, QLD CONNONDALE, QLD CANUNGRA, QLD TOWNSVILLE, QLD
TOOWOOMBA, QLD BROADFORD,VIC KRUSIC’S RIDE PARK,VIC MERRIJIG,VIC BRIGHT,VIC ACUSA PARK, SA KIRUP, WA
Adventure Pro is a course we only run once, maybe twice a year. This course will test the most experienced adventure rider and is designed to stretch your comfort zone and galvanise your skill set. Accuracy and consistency are the core of this course, being able to place the bike wheel track perfectly and work on high level skills exercises to fine tune your inputs is what this course is about. Think riding circles with the steering at full lock and you get the picture.
ADVENTURE LADIES
The Adventure Ladies course is our Adventure Skills Course just for ladies. These have proven popular and we conduct a couple each year.
ADVENTURE SAND
If you are up for the challenge come along to one of our Adventure Sand riding courses and learn how to conquer the soft stuff. We ease you into it and ramp up the riding over this two day course. You will
learn how to manage sand, whether you want to be able to deal with unexpected sand on a ride or head into the dunes, this course will arm you with the skills you need.
ADVENTURE PREP
Our only one day course is also our only course that doesn’t involve riding. The Adventure Prep course will help you prepare for your adventure riding. Learn all sorts of trail side fixes and solutions along with how to prepare your bike, put together a tool kit, what equipment to carry, plug a puncture, replace a tube, repair engine case damage, fix a drowned bike plus much more! A must do course for adventure riders.
ADVENTURE RIDING MASTERCLASS
The 4-day Adventure Riding Masterclass is designed to be your ultimate Adventure Riding Course. Whether you are new to Adventure Riding or an experienced campaigner, or maybe you want to be ready for your first BMW GS Safari,
5 key adventure riding tips
this course will offer you plenty! We have specifically designed it to be able to provide riders of all levels ways to stretch your riding ability and improve. A mash up of just about all that we offer here at BMW GS Off Road Training; this course will have elements from our Adventure Prep, Adventure Skills, Adventure Expert and Sand Courses. There are a couple of offsite mini half-day tours that we will head out on. We touch on some rider prep, first aid and throw in a GS Trophy Style Challenge or two just for fun. All of this at the spectacular Mt Seaview Resort which is located about an hour’s ride west of Port Macquarie on NSW’s midnorth coast. A private property that we have hand-picked for this exceptional course. It’s an adventure rider’s gold mine, we have everything
we need within the property plus amazing riding just outside the front gate. It has a restaurant and accommodation onsite, along with a beautiful campground.
We also love to hear from any groups or clubs interested in a course near them. We can’t be everywhere but if we can add a location or if riders are interested, please contact us and we’ll try our very best to help.
We are currently piecing together our course schedule for 2021 and hope to release the first batch of dates by the end of November. Riders can keep an eye out on our website gsoffroad.com.au, email info@bmwoffroadtraining.com.au or you can sign up to our contacts on the website to be notified via email when new course dates are released.
1
Work on being agile on your bike, especially when in the standing position.You shouldn’t look like a Lego figure clipped onto the bike and handlebars, you want to open up a huge range of movement forward to back and side to side when needed.
2
A way to keep safe and improve your “luck” is to consider being able to stop, or at very least get down to a safe slow speed, within your line of sight at all times. It might be the difference of stopping before that fallen tree over the blind crest or being “unlucky” and nailing it.
3
Be prepared, carry what you need for a ride but don’t carry more than that! Overloading your bike will just add to your fatigue and lessen your riding enjoyment. Pack light! Share the necessities between riders in your group, you don’t need 6 compressors.
4
If you are heading into remote areas make sure you have a way to communicate other than phone if necessary, many consider this excessive but until you need it you won’t realise the importance of it. There are plenty of good products out there.
5
Stay out of dust, so simple yet so common to hear of riders having issues because it was too dusty. It’s only dusty because you chose to ride in it. Stop for 2 minutes, have a drink and snack and enjoy fresh air and clear vision! D
WORDS/PHOTOS
VIVIENNE BOSS
PIP
BROWN
THE MAIDEN
BEFORE THEIR MARRIAGE IN 1980, Tex and Pip shared the idea of traveling around Australia on a motorcycling adventure. It remained a whimsical notion for almost 40 years before their dream of wandering finally turned into reality.
Tex had endured more than his fair share of ill health, constantly fighting off his demons; he silently suffered with PTSD. Later, he suffered a back injury requiring spinal surgery. Then he spent several years bedridden with a life-threatening disease and miraculously beat it. On a daily basis, Tex still endured constant physical and mental agony. After a 15-year hiatus, nothing compared with treating the psychological anguish with a great ride astride Bertha, the lovable 1998 BMW Boxer R 1100R T. Pip had always been convinced that BMW stood for Best Motorcycles Worldwide.
The final plan they set was to travel almost 16.000 kilometres in under 70 days, departing Adelaide in winter and chasing the sunshine. Pip couldn’t think of a better way to re-connect with their relationship and find peace of mind, all while sitting behind the love of her life upon their glossy black iron horse. Singing the blues at the top of her gut-wrenching, tone deaf voice with the music from endless playlists blasting into her almost deaf ears from the speakers inside her helmet. Both of them were convinced that this was the best mental therapy, and a whole lot more fun than sitting on a shrink’s couch. It worked; mental anguish was blown to smithereens. The previous black hole cavity in the brainbox was filled with inner peace. Soothing the savage beast all along the way.
Pip’s 88-year-old mother protested about the planned sabbatical journey; their kids felt like the parents were being the irresponsible teenagers instead of themselves. After all the health stress they’d come to terms with, how fleeting life can be. Pip simply justified it with a wise old saying of Nana’s:
“You’re a long time dead.”
On a cold winter’s morning in June 2017, Bertha was all saddled up to go. Due to the freezing cold start to this road trip, they were wearing the bulk of their wardrobes. Layer upon layer. (Like a Sara Lea Apple Danish)
Heading off over the southern Adelaide Hills, through the lush green undulating vineyards of McLaren Vale. Into the picturesque town of Strathalbyn, past Langhorne Creek. Taking a quick stop for a twinkle at the public toilets, while waiting for the punt/car ferry to cross the Murray River at Wellington. Australia’s new motorsports racing track “The Bend” lies along this route near Tailem Bend. They rode past to Pinnaroo in the Murray Mallee district, re-fuelled, lunched and stretched their legs. Bertha had a large 28 litre fuel tank. This fully laden iron pony with pillion travelled about 530 kms in favourable weather on one tank at A$30. You can’t get a day of better fun or value for money than that.
The totally boring crossing of the Hay Plains in NSW consists of around 300 kilometres of flat nothingness. The highway is well sealed and straight, puffy cumulous clouds wafted across the cerulean blue sky. Seemed like a great opportunity for a nice long
along the highway. Bertha still had an old factory-fitted cassette player. Now obsolete. Pip’s new heated gloves worked well, keeping her knobbly arthritic fingers warm. Tex had heated hand grips up front. Standard feature of BMW, even twenty years ago. Tex still wore his GP boots from his short stint in the army during the 1970s.
THE ROAD ZIG ZAGGED DOWN THE STEEP INCLINE... FERNY FRESH SMELLS FROM THE DAMP RAIN FOREST WERE PLEASANT TO INHALE.
nap. Pip snuggled down into her cosy seat, with sleeping bags strapped on top of both panniers, forming comfy arm rests. Tex could always tell when Pip had fallen asleep, as her body often slumped forward into his. Tex didn’t mind providing her helmet didn’t press into his. It’s hard enough holding one’s own head up, let alone another’s. Tex would either deliver the rude awakening of a backward head butt or, in not such dire circumstances, he’d interrupt the playlist music with: “This is your flight captain speaking, Can the pillion please refrain from slumping forward. Excuse the vernacular, but you are putting unnecessary pressure on my farken’ neck. It’s a beautiful day, with pleasant south westerly tail winds. I expect we shall reach our destination by 3pm today. Have an enjoyable flight. Love you.”
The ambience was perfect and those endless playlists from all their old baby boomer favourites grooved them out
Don’t even think about bringing a curling wand or high heel shoes, you never know where they may get shoved. Boiling a billy for coffee involved lots of squatting. After a couple of weeks crawling in and out of a tiny two-man tent and squatting, Pip found to her surprise that her buttock cheeks lifted. Pert, firm and round. Crikey, her glutes hadn’t looked this good in 30 years. Pip’s arthritic knee that crackled and ground each time she pressed in the clutch on Pearl, her 1971 VW Beetle, was pain free. Pip was squatting fluently, like a toddler. She discovered a simple nomadic camping lifestyle had the best fringe benefits. No hair dos, manicures or make up. She felt somewhat dishevelled, reckless and rather weather beaten. But the smile on her dial, the glow in her complexion, and the spring in her step from the sheer exhilaration of this journey, outweighed all the drawbacks.
Paddocks in shades of green and beige chequered the countryside. Bright yellow canola crops, with their sweet perfume pleasantly wafted into the nostrils. Sure beats the fetid stench of a rotting animal carcass in a passing ditch. Most of the road kills occur at night, or dawn and dusk when the animals feed on the roadside. Tex and Pip never travel at night, dawn or dusk. Nine o’clock start each morning, being sure to settle for the night by 3.00pm. The result of hitting a two-metretall, bounding kangaroo would be devastating for all. Experts say, don’t panic, swerve or brake. Keep your cool and just plough on straight through. Gutsy, courageous or plain stupid? Apparently, this is your best option should the unmentionable happen. But our pair of mad enthusiasts never dwelt on such negativity.
The word pillion derives from a Scottish Gaelic word, it means
little rug or animal skin, behind the main rider’s seat. A loan word from the Latin “pellis” for animal skin, traditionally to help keep the rider warm. A pillion needs to have awareness of what’s going on ahead. Only sleep on the long straight bits. Be ready to lean as one with the rider in corners and shift the butt in order to make it easier for the rider up front. Great for the waistline too. There’s never been a better time to practice pelvic floor exercises. Pip made it her job to give the peace sign, thumbs up or wave to every single passer-by. Proudly, almost 16,000 kilometres travelled, she only needed to operate the rude finger three times.
Tex noticed the rear tyre worn after only 4000km. Normally they last 8 to 10,000. The correct size tyre could not be found in Dubbo. “Could be 2 or 3 days to order one in, old boy,” said the 20ish inept tosser in the bike shop. Tex was silently seething. “Maybe longer due to the long weekend. But enjoy Dubbo. You could go to the zoo,” smiled the tosser. He blushed when he realised Tex was getting twitchy, his chains had been rattled. If the shit hit the fan now, Tex’s reaction might cause his contentedly snoozing inner beastie to unfurl itself and spring into a rapid animal, like nothing ever seen in Dubbo’s famous zoo.
On to Tamworth. It’s only about 350km up the road. Initially, the plan to replace tyres had been to do it once they’d crossed the Great Divide and were resting at an old BMW mate’s place at Woolgoolga. He was eagerly awaiting their arrival. Tamworth didn’t have the elusive tyre size either. A large weather depression was headed their way. It was still too cold for camping, motels at A$120 a night were blowing their tight budget out of whack.
After a good sleep and careful inspection of the suspect tyre, they made an executive decision which some might have called foolhardy to head for Glen Innes and then slowly wind down the eastern escarpment of the Great Dividing Range. Around 170km and it’s all downhill, they were predicting that they should be at the bottom of the mountain in two or three hours. By now both tyres were looking decidedly worn, probably from the extra weight.
The road zig zagged down the steep incline, it was drizzling rain. Ferny fresh smells from the damp rain forest were pleasant to inhale. The rain was getting heavier, it began washing across the road and cascading off the edge into the depths below in waterfall fashion. Coincidentally, Paul Simon blasted into their ears with Slip Sliding Away. Concentrate, this was a serious
ride of straight-lined cornering, manipulating all manoeuvres with military style precision. Reaching Grafton was a welcome relief. Now a short ride down the Pacific Highway to the abode of their old mate Buzz. Pip was regretting winning the argument about wearing her new flashy polyester Teal rain jacket. Tex had tried in vain to convince her the old black daggy nylon would repel the water better than her flashy new jacket.
The full trip
This extract is just a small piece of the entire trip, which Vivienne will be publishing as a book very shortly. Check out our News section in upcoming issues to see when it’s available and where to get it.
She was soaked to the marrow. Tex was dry as a bone. Why did Supertramp play “Bloody Well Right” at this moment? It really peeved her when he was so right. Surely he couldn’t be searching the playlist in this weather. But stranger still, next came Pink Floyd’s “Comfortably Numb”. Actually, she realised that she couldn’t have said it better herself. She was wet but still having fun although thankful that Buzz would have a nice pot of tea and hot showers available in less than 30 minutes. D
THE RIDER’S TOUR
IT HAS BEEN a couple of years since we held an Australian Motorcyclist Magazine Tour but our great association with Paradise Motorcycle Tours has got the brains – Stuart (AMM) and Mike (PMT) -together to come up with our next tour: The Rider’s Tour!
This is a tour that is NOT to be missed. It really is going to be that good. Not only will the tour be covering a lot of the best of the South Island, but the cream is we’ll be tying it in with the Burt Munro Challenge – four days of blow your mind racing events, motorcycles, and simply old fashioned motorcycling fun.
Before we get into the details, if the first paragraph had you saying,
Monday 8 February
Arrive Christchurch
Our accommodation is just 7 minutes from the Airport. On arrival use the courtesy phone to inform the hotel you’ve arrived and they will collect you and bring you to the hotel.
Meet Stuart and his partner Lisa and the Paradise team that evening. Say hello to your motorcycle and complete the paperwork. Welcome drinks are on us tonight.
“I’m in already!” well, do not delay and book your spot. Contact Mike or one of the fine crew at Paradise Motorcycle Tours now – jump onto paradisemotorcycletours.co.nz, email info@paradisemotorcycletours.co.nz or phone +64 274 765 035.
Due to Covid-19, Paradise Motorcycle Tours has a fully refundable deposit if restrictions are still in place and an extended time before full payment is due to allow this ever-changing pandemic to ease.
The Rider’s Tour will see you riding the best roads with the best guides, all on new/near new BMW motorcycles as Paradise Motorcycle Tours is an Official BMW Motorrad Partner. This means they have attained certification by BMW Motorrad that they know
Tuesday 9 February
Christchurch to Mount Cook Village 335km
We’ll be away by 9am and three bends and three short straights and we’re out of Christchurch and into the countryside. Thankfully we’re not north of Christchurch and don’t have to put up with interminably brain numbing dead straight roads, you’ll be straight into it at the click of the fingers.
We’ll ride through The Canterbury Plains, across the Rakaia Gorge on the Inland Scenic Route, and onwards through Geraldine and Fairlie, Bukes Pass and
how to conduct a professional and exciting tour and offer you amazing motorcycles to ride. This really does make the experience all the more better. Paradise Motorcycle Tours isn’t a Trip Advisor ‘Hall of Famer’ for nothing.
Both AMM and Paradise are encouraging solo and two-up riders to attend this ripper tour. If your pillion feels like hitching a ride in the support van for a section of road to let you tear up some tyres or would like a whole day off the bike – cool. They’ll just to put up with weird New Zealand jokes from the driver. LOL!
The AMM Burt Munro Challenge Rider’s Tour 2021 in association with Paradise Motorcycle Tours NZ will include the following…
Tekapo, before arriving at our accommodation in Mount Cook Village. We will have marvelled at the Blue Lakes of Tekapo and Pukaki and had our first taste of sweeping bends with views of magnificent mountains and very little traffic. A chance to take a helicopter trip around Mount Cook and land in the snow from Glentanner heliport near Mount Cook this afternoon, weather dependent. This is at additional cost and has to be booked in advance, we’ll talk about it with you after you have booked the tour. It’s the most popular activity on any NZ tour.
The ride into Mount Cook Village is one that will simply blow your mind out of the universe, if not for the view, but the awesome road.
Wednesday
10 February
Mount Cook Village to Invercargill 430km
An awesome ride through Central Otago today. Fantastic roads, stunning scenery, the Lindis Pass, Cromwell, Alexandra and its moonscape, just wonderful riding all the way to Invercargill. No State Highway 1 for us, only stunning roads.
Thursday 11 February
Start of BMC
We’re at the Burt Munro Challenge for the next four days and exclusive to Paradise we aren’t going to miss a thing. First up is the Hill Climb this morning and then you have a choice of E Hayes and Sons, the most amazing hardware shop in the world, with its eclectic mix of all things combustion engine powered, as well as all the original Burt Munro Bikes, a film copy you can sit in for a photo, and lots of memorabilia. You also have tickets to Motorcycle Mecca and Bill Richardson Transport World.
This evening we have the Drag Races to entertain us.
Friday 12 February
Today we can see where Burt learnt to race and ride a bike fast, we’re off to the Beach races. Don’t forget you should take the opportunity to ride through the Catlins when you get time, your guides will be only too happy to give you advice on routes. Live music tonight if you’re interested.
Saturday 13 February
Its Sprint races this morning and Speedway this afternoon and more live music tonight, and your last chance to go
THE RIDER’S TOUR
see anything you didn’t have time to fit in before.
Sunday 14 February
Invercargill to Te Anau 220km
We have Street Races this morning, and then it’s time to bid a fond farewell to Invercargill as we avoid the crowds taking the obvious route to Queenstown, and take the road less travelled, the Southern Scenic route to Te Anau, our gateway to the unspoilt area of Fiordland, with its lakes and mountains and waterfalls.
entry into a cathedral of mountains, snow, ice and waterfalls is awesome. It might even snow (if you’re lucky) in the middle of summer!
Monday 15 February
Te Anau-Milford Sound-Queenstown 392km
An early start today as we ride 110kms to Milford Sound to arrive in time for our cruise on the Sound. Henry Cole of “Worlds Greatest Motorcycle Rides” toured with us and after the Milford Ride said it was the best motorcycle day ride of his life. The ride up to The Homer Tunnel and the
Our Milford cruise is another example of not taking the obvious route. We cruise in a small ship, far from the madding crowd that the other cruise ships have, which enables us to get far closer to all the points of interest in the Fiord – get wet if you want under one of the many waterfalls. Our day continues after the cruise, we get to enjoy the spectacle and the road to Te Anau, and then after lunch we ride to Queenstown for the first of a two-night stop.
Tuesday 16 February
ride: the opportunities are endless, and your guides and the hotel will help you arrange and book anything you’re interested in. Or just kick back and relax, take a stroll into town, enjoy the lake and mountain views and don’t do anything much.
Wednesday 17 February
Queenstown to Franz Josef 350km
Thursday 18 February
Relax day - Explore Queenstown
Take a ride to Glenorchy or Coronet Peak, explore Arrowtown, enjoy wine at Gibbston, throw yourself off something high attached to your life by elastic, or take a jet boat
It’s the Ice Run today, a wonderful ride up the Crown Range, the highest sealed road in New Zealand, and then onto Wanaka, alongside lakes and mountains to the Haast Pass, then the Salmon Farm, Bruces Bay, glorious rainforest, Fox Glacier Village and our home for the night, Franz Josef. You have another chance to take a helicopter trip this afternoon if you missed the first trip, and again tomorrow morning, the weather (mountains attract clouds) means we get up about 50% of the time. The riding today will be some of the best you could imagine.
Franz Josef to Punakaiki 220km
Through the rainforest heading north on the west coast, our first stop is Hokitika, the centre of a Gold Rush in the 1800s, and its too grand buildings are memorials to its once wealthy heritage. It’s the town the book The Luminaries was based on. It’s now the centre of the greenstone or Pounamu industry and if you are interested in buying genuine and authentic greenstone ask your guides where to go to get the real thing at a reasonable price. Heading north again we ride through Greymouth, and then alongside the sea until we reach Punakaiki, and our hotel beside the sea for the night. Don’t forget the Pancake Rocks!
Friday 19 February
Punakaiki to Hanmer Springs 290km
We start the day riding
beside the ocean heading north and then turn inland to the lower Buller Gorge. We ride alongside the river following the twists and turns before heading inland to Reefton, the first town in New Zealand to get electric light. We’ll stop for a break and give you time to wander the interesting collection of shops in Main Street, maybe chat to the bearded miners, although there is speculation locally that they may not have mined anywhere, they’re certainly bearded.
Onward through the forest, we have left ‘rainforest’ behind at the ocean and now we are riding through beech forest, long sweeping bends through the forest until we reach Springs Junction. A quick stretch and a comfort stop and we’re into the Lewis Pass, in our opinion one of the most scenic of the main passes and great riding. Hanmer Springs is our next stop staying at a new hotel just 10 minutes walk from town.
Saturday 20 February
Hanmer Springs to Christchurch via Kaikoura 310km
An early start for those who have asked for Whale
Watching out of Kaikoura (additional cost, must be pre-booked, weather dependent). For the rest it’s a lovely ride through the inland route to Kaikoura for an early lunch and then a ride beside the sea before heading inland and then onward to Christchurch. It’s the end of your tour, but we won’t abandon you at the hotel, we will celebrate the tour with drinks and a farewell dinner as we look at all the photos people have taken during the tour, and tonight it’s all on us.
Sunday 21 February
Departure
After breakfast it’s time to say our sad farewells. Paradise hope to see you again, in New Zealand or maybe on one of their European Alps or Balkans tours, when we can travel to Europe again.
Get excited! The time to book is now, this is going to be a trip of a lifetime. D
Old Bridges and Convict sites
WORDS/PHOTOS – BOB WOZGA
THE MESSAGE WENT OUT
– ‘Going to Towrang Saturday Morning. Leaving my place at 9:15am’.
The replies came: It might rain... It might not; It might be cold... It might not; It might be windy… It might not; There might be nothing interesting down there… Maybe there is. You have probably heard the same words countless times while organising
a ride regardless of whether it is for a day, a weekend or longer. The bike sits in the garage covered in a plastic sheet, protecting it from dust, rain, sunlight. It sits silently waiting for the right time to roll down the drive and follow the dotted lines off the highways.
Due to Covid-19, many of us are working from home, but that’s good. However, a sense of claustrophobia does arise from the mere fact of being in the confines of the same
surroundings and routine day in day out. Wake up, go to work in the home office, lunch in the home staff kitchen, walk to the letterbox to see if there is any junk mail, walk back to the home office with or without junk mail, see other staff on zoom meetings, log out at the end of day and walk into the home staff kitchen to wash your coffee cup. Then stroll into the lounge room and put the feet up after a long day in the office. Maybe a couple of
times a week, I should ride around the block two or three times in the morning and park in the designated bike parking zone on the driveway to make it feel like I’m travelling to work, and the same at the end of the day for the trip home.
Once every month or two you need to venture past the letter box and supermarket to keep your mind active, to stay sane basically. There is no better way than to get friends together and ride to a place no one has been – just to see what’s there.
Open curtains are greeted by a steely sky on the Saturday morning; the BOM website gives the possibility of rain as 40%. This really means there is a 60% chance of no rain at all. In the front garden, my weather rock is dry. I still prefer to rely on my weather rock to tell me what the weather is doing.
After the success of an earlier weekend away to Nabiac, most of the guys had gone out and bought road bikes, but I can’t hold that against them. Two STs and an NT... They will eventually see the light. One still has his car but is looking to upgrade.
At least Greg still has his KLR. Unfortunately, due to Covid, the bikes were stuck in isolation for a while. It was good to see the lads turn up on time and all are eager to head out.
Journeying south along the expressway, the temperature rises and falls with the change in altitude. The traffic is light, water has pooled on the shoulders of the road from a recent passing shower and it’s relaxing to cruise along the bitumen while taking turns leading the way. Spotting one of the bikes on the side of the road, we ride past knowing it’s just that the low temperature has got to him and we will see him catch up shortly. Not seeing his headlight for a while, we pull up at Paddy’s River to wait for him to either ride past or for us to turn around in case it was engine or tyre problems he was having. It’s not long before he waves as he flies past.
Stopping at Marulan for something hot to eat and drink, coffee and steaming scones do wonders. We are very fortunate that even though we are living through Covid-19, with a few precautions in place like social
distancing, washing hands and signing in when entering a café, we are still able to support family run businesses in country towns and enjoy their scones, burgers, coffee, beer or whatever else is on offer, while also enjoying the freedom the motorcycle gives us. Marulan, with its old style shopfronts, wide street and easy-going feel is also a good backdrop to take photos of your bike, your mates’ bikes, or other people’s bikes and cars as they roll through town. A walk up and down the street reading historical notices on the street or looking through windows of abandoned buildings keeps you entertained while giving an interesting look into the past.
A little further south is the destination for the day. I originally stumbled across the Towrang Stockade while doing some groundwork for another ride I was planning. There are no road signs pointing to it, which probably isn’t a bad thing.
Pulling into the VC Derrick rest stop, the sun has come out, warming the day and proving my prediction of 60% chance of no rain. Some smart person has had the foresight to plant some picnic tables here which
allows us to catch the sun and make lunch before exploring the ruins. Being a memorial to the fallen but not forgotten, it was also an apt place with present company to share a shot of bourbon for a friend who should have been on the ride with us but had sadly passed away a year earlier.
Behind the picnic tables lies the Towrang Bridge, a handcrafted sandstone bridge and weir possibly designed by David Lennox, famous for his bridge at Glenbrook. Seven stone culverts follow the original Great South Road that runs beside the Hume Highway. For those interested in the history of roads, this site is also an example of three generations of road
building. The site exhibits remnants of the original Great South Road, parts of the Old Hume Highway and the new Hume Motorway. On the other side of the highway, on the banks of the Wollondilly River, are the ruins of Towrang Stockade that operated from 1836 to 1842. The site housed chain gangs used in the construction of the Great South Road. They would have lived in brutal conditions created by the environment with extreme temperatures during summer and winter and the prison guards. One of the floggers was found murdered near Run-o-Waters Creek. All that’s left of the stockade is remnants of the buildings’ footings and
the powder magazine that is cut into the riverbank. Dark and dank, the walls have etchings, but it’s hard to decipher names or dates. Not far, across the Towrang Creek, lie three graves in an enclosure with possibly more hidden nearby. For such a brutal place it is a highly picturesque location overlooking the river and surrounding valley. To get to the other side, you can cross the highway on foot, park in the parking area (not signed) or walk through the drainage tunnel under the highway.
As we walk back to the rest stop, the last of the party finally arrives – Craig and his wife nurse their ST into the carpark. A piece of shale punctured the rear tyre along Carrick Road. This would not have happened if he had an adventure bike. Fortunately, Craig had packed the repair kit with the rest of his tools and a short while later, with Rod’s help, the bike was ready to continue their trip to Braidwood and they didn’t need to sit in a picnic hut watching YouTube clips to instruct them on how to use the repair kit.
The ST and NT of Chris and Rod are in their element as they glide over the asphalt of the Highland Way as we head back into the reality of the new normal. Rolling into the bends, the bikes seem to enjoy the ride as much as the riders, and lead us into Bundanoon for a last drink stop before everyone heads home.
As to the earlier replies to the message, It might rain...Pack wet weather gear. It might be cold... take a jumper. It might be windy… Deal with it. There might be nothing interesting down there... Every place is interesting if you look.
Which leads to… I might get a flat tyre... Bring a repair kit.
Here’s a thought. As an experiment, set aside a day to change your tyre, the sparkplug, the light globes etc and determine the minimum tools you require to carry to complete the repairs. Once you have decided what you need, set it aside in a tool bag for your trips away.
As with dealing with Covid-19, with calmness, the correct mental attitude, precautions, and planning, you can always get out and enjoy a ride without it turning into a disaster. D
APRILIA RS 660 A BARREL OF FUN?
WORDS/PHOTOS – APRILIA
FOR ITS DÉBUT ON the road, Aprilia took the new RS 660 to one of the most iconic ribbons of asphalt and tracks in the world. On the Big Sur coastline in California, astride the RS 660 was Australian and friend of AMM, Rennie Scaysbrook, who won at Pikes Peak, the most famous and prestigious hill climb race in the world, where he also holds the record riding the Aprilia Tuono V4.
The dynamic features, the tight frame and the exciting performance of the new 73.5kW twin-cylinder thrilled Rennie who, since he happened to be in Monterey for the American presentation, couldn’t resist the temptation to test the RS 660 at Laguna Seca too, on the most famous track in California.
And so, the Corkscrew - the fast double turn on a hair-raising downhill that characterises Laguna Seca - put the new Aprilia through its paces. This bike, which is designed for everyday fun on
the road and for weekend sport and leisure riding, is providing unexpected thrills at every track test thanks to its light weight and agile performance.
The surprise at the début is a spectacular, brand new colour scheme that sets a new bar for style and sportiness: the RS 660 was unveiled in the Acid Gold livery, a genuine essence of the Aprilia brand and the perfect combination of innovation, technology and design.
Aprilia’s RS 660 has been one of the most anxiously awaited motorcycles since its first appearance as a concept in November 2018. It revealed a brand new idea of sportiness, no longer bound strictly to the power specs, but defined by the ratio between exuberant and easy-to-manage engine performance, a chassis architecture par excellence and the light weight of the vehicle. Also, at 659cc there is the possibility we could see a LAMS version here, although there is no word from
Aprilia whether that will happen. Matching the 73.5kW is 63Nm of torque and a weight of just 183 kg – making it a heap of fun to ride. The riding position is also a little more relaxed versus a full on sports bike, head down, bum up possie. Aprilia calls it a “semi handlebar”.
Other standard features of the RS 660 are Ride-by-Wire, five riding modes, up and down quickshift, APRC package containing ATC (traction control), AWC (wheelie control), AEB (engine braking), AEM (engine maps) and ACC (cruise control), cornering ABS and adjustable suspension front and rear, plus more.
The RS 660 will arrive in Australia in March 2021 with indicative pricing between $18,500 and $19,000 inc GST + onroad costs. Final pricing and full specification will be announced closer to arrival. Now, to get these borders open so we can ride one at an Aussie launch! D
SUBSCRIBE THIS MONTH AND WIN
UCLEAR Motion 6 Bluetooth Communications unit RRP $359.95 Supplied by our friends at McLeod Accessoeries
The UCLEAR Motion 6 System is built upon direct feedback from riders, dealers, and industry experts to introduce our most advanced Intercom system yet.
All new gesture controlled commands will allow full control of the system without the press of a button!
Up to 6 riders can be connected using the Motion 6’s 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.
to us:
W H A T S A Y Y O U ?
WE LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU, 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
IT’S GREAT WHEN YOU guys enjoy recommendations we make and that’s just what Paul has done. For his thoughts to go and give Hillbilly Cider a go on my recommendation, he’s won the t-shirt and backpack this month! Well done, Paul. Please send me your shirt size and mailing address. For all your travel needs check out nelsonrigg.com.au SW
HAVING A HILLBILLY CIDER
Hi Stuart, You motivated me to push on a bit further today. I normally head out from home at Pennant Hills and out past Glenorie bakery and over the Sackville ferry to Tractor 828, which, as I am sure you would know is a great pit stop before tackling the Putty Road loop. Your editorial in the current issue inspired me to turn right after the ferry and then head
ELECTRIC NEEDS
Hi Stuart
Reading your article on the electric Harley made me think back one month to my dilemma I had with my Tradie truck, a TDM Yamaha. As a service repair man carrying 50kg of tools and parts, my trustie Yammie had burnt out the alternator in June this year and of course it would take 8-10 weeks to get one from Japan due to the lack of flights coming and going. So, I decided that I will carry 2 batteries connected to the battery under the seat these extra batteries were carried in the tank bag. Very careful planning of each day was done the night before while 3 batteries sat on overnight chargers, I had to plan my routes for the day taking in my days’ work of course this left no room for detours (urgent jobs popping up these urgent repairs are double the charge which customers are happy to pay) trying to stick to my plan. To get through the day was very
out through Kurrajong and Bells Line of Road to see the Hillbilly Cider crew. Great place and a great way to spend a few hours out on the Tracer 900. Still loving every issue over the past 4 years or so. Keep it up. BTW, haven’t seen an email update to subscribers for a looong time (Nov 2018?). Must be busy on these bike resto’s (Katana +...) Cheers, Paul Oastler.
Hi Paul, Great stuff. Yeah, Hillbilly Cider is a great way to kill a few hours! The Tracer would be great along the Bells Line. Yeah, deadlines and all that stuff got in the way of the email update. I should get back to it… someday! Cheers, Stuart.
tedious using blinkers sparingly having minimum starts of the engine ensuring I did not get caught in heavy traffic to elevate the fan coming on, no blipping the throttle on downshifts. Trying to get the same normal speeds in a higher gear (less revs less electrical power used) not to mention having to have 3 quality chargers and batteries on hand and regularly missing lunch due to not being able to cut the engine for a break.
This type of riding, worried that your bike will stop short well away from home, is not enjoyable and don’t get me started on not being able to grab a coffee and a social ride to the Grey Gum Cafe or Robertson pie shop on my days off.
Most of these problems probably won’t be a concern with the electric motorcycle but the fact remains that you will have to stick to a journey plan with no room for that pleasurable detour that occasionally crops up. Imagine planning a 400km round trip and finding out your return route is
blocked by flood, fire or a fatal crash and the return alternative is another 150km longer, I doubt if the wife will be pleased with the phone call oh honey come and get me and bring the trailer as did happen to me twice, mine were worse as she had to pick me up, take me and the batteries home and take me back the next morning.
My wife’s mumbling sounded like don’t ever buy an electric motorbike. Oh Stuart seeing that all is back to normal and the alternator should last another 100,000 kms I have 2 batteries and chargers for sale.
Yours in motorcycling, Ian Gregory, Regents Park.
Hi Ian, Yes, all of this is very much like an electric motorcycle. I reckon until there is a super fast charge available that gives car or bike a charge in 5-10minutes they will always be a city only vehicle. Cheers, Stuart.
to improve my biceps
to improve my biceps
Hi Harry,
to improve my biceps
I ENJOY IT
Hi Harry,
Hello 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’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.
Hi Harry, 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.
COVID 1
I just re-subscribed to your magazine which I enjoy. I subscribed to AMCN for over 20 years but was tired of the same articles and it became an advertising magazine rather than an interesting motor bike magazine. Best regards, Shayne.
Braidwood. Purpose to ride, have a social get together and have some food whilst out. Now, no such trips.
Braidwood. Purpose to ride, have a social get together and have some food whilst out. Now, no such trips.
MAN UP, BORIS
COVID 1
Dear Stuart,
COVID 1
SO DO I
Dear Stuart,
Dear Stuart,
Clearly there is a lot of economic downturn as a result of COVID19 and it is further impacting on car sales and I would think motorcycle sales (which I think have been down anyway pre Covid19).
Clearly there is a lot of economic downturn as a result of COVID19 and it is further impacting on car sales and I would think motorcycle sales (which I think have been down anyway pre Covid19).
Just renewed for another year. Best bike mag in the country! Keep it up!! Regards, Brett.
Clearly there is a lot of economic downturn as a result of COVID19 and it is further impacting on car sales and I would think motorcycle sales (which I think have been down anyway pre Covid19).
Hi Brett, Great stuff, mate – enjoy! Cheers, Stuart.
There is nobody much on the roads in the ACT except those who by necessity have to go out for work or food and essentials.
There is nobody much on the roads in the ACT except those who by necessity have to go out for work or food and essentials.
There is nobody much on the roads in the ACT except those who by necessity have to go out for work or food and essentials.
AND DON’T FORGET ME!
Thanks for the reminder. My wife has been good enough to follow it through and renew my subscription. I do enjoy your magazine.
I have been managing to use the bike for essential trips within the confines of the ACT border but that is a big change from our weekly ride group where we would usually ride out of the ACT to, say, Goulburn or Boorowa or Yass or
Peter
I have been managing to use the bike for essential trips within the confines of the ACT border but that is a big change from our weekly ride group where we would usually ride out of the ACT to, say, Goulburn or Boorowa or Yass or
I have been managing to use the bike for essential trips within the confines of the ACT border but that is a big change from our weekly ride group where we would usually ride out of the ACT to, say, Goulburn or Boorowa or Yass or
Hi Peter, Great stuff – enjoy! Cheers, Stuart.
I know there has been panic in terms of buying up of products like loo paper, tissues, hand sanitizer, pasta, canned tomatoes and other products. This panic buying has been ridiculous in my opinion and created a problem of store supply where there was no need to stockpile goods at home. I note that the news reports say that a small supermarket group Drake’s has refused to buy back 150 x 32 roll packs of toilet paper and 150 x 1 ltr sanitizer. I am GLAD they refused a refund as the individual concerned was having about 20 people chase these products and then he attempted to re-sell on E-Bay. Serve the bugger right for being a scungy individual!
Maryborough QLD
AHOY FROM UNZUD!
Hi Stuart, I was interested in the KTM 790 until I saw the price! Add 3-5k for enzed. Numbers don’t add up for me (ie retired).
Braidwood. Purpose to ride, have a social get together and have some food whilst out. Now, no such trips. I know there has been panic in terms of buying up of products like loo paper, tissues, hand sanitizer, pasta, canned tomatoes and other products. This panic buying has been ridiculous in my opinion and created a problem of store supply where there was no need to stockpile goods at home. I note that the news reports say that a small supermarket group Drake’s has refused to buy back 150 x 32 roll packs of toilet paper and 150 x 1 ltr sanitizer. I am GLAD they refused a refund as the individual concerned was having about 20 people chase these products and then he attempted to re-sell on E-Bay. Serve the bugger right for being a scungy individual!
Boris, Re Twisty Corners on Putty Rd, you should have ridden the Putty Rd from Singleton side in the early ‘60s with me and Eddie. I rode my TR6 Triumph Trophy and Eddie, his 62 Bonnie up that way. When we went into the servo for breakfast the waitress told us no one ever comes that way because it was all dirt corners. Yours, Mick (now 82 yrs old),
I know there has been panic in terms of buying up of products like loo paper, tissues, hand sanitizer, pasta, canned tomatoes and other products. This panic buying has been ridiculous in my opinion and created a problem of store supply there was no need to stockpile goods at home. I note that the news reports say that a small supermarket group Drake’s has refused to buy back 32 roll packs of toilet paper and 150 x 1 ltr sanitizer. I am GLAD they refused a refund as the individual concerned was having about 20 people chase these products and then he attempted to re-sell on E-Bay. Serve the bugger right for being a scungy individual!
Have you done a test on the CF Moto 650 MT – the most highly quality controlled Chinese company with technical links/ interchange with KTM.
All that said, I think your quoting of figures of the people that die daily from cancer, heart disease, diabetes, mozzies and murders is an unfair comparison! Yes to date the total numbers of COVID19 deaths World Wide would be exceeded by a week’s worth or less perhaps of the
changes. Last thing I want to do is pour frozen Kiwi water on ya mates!
PS 2. I’ve self-medicated for covid for 7 months – 4th botte of Pravda Vodka for almost 5 shots a week…wot (sic) brain? It’s bloody mush bro!
reasons for the daily figures of these deaths, however this pandemic of COVID 19 is not normal and as you would know has the potential for totally overwhelming the hospital and medical resources of all countries. I am not aware of any cancers etc you can catch from shaking someone’s hand or touching contaminated surfaces. So, comparing normal worldwide deaths to COVID19 deaths is like trying to compare apples and oranges.
reasons for the daily figures of these deaths, however this pandemic of COVID 19 is not normal and as you would know has the potential for totally overwhelming the hospital and medical resources of all countries. I am not aware of any cancers etc you can catch from shaking someone’s hand or touching contaminated surfaces. So, comparing normal worldwide deaths to COVID19 deaths is like trying to compare apples and oranges.
reasons for the daily figures of these deaths, however this pandemic of COVID 19 is not normal and as you would know has the potential for totally overwhelming the hospital and medical resources of all countries. I am not aware of any cancers etc you can catch from shaking someone’s hand or touching contaminated surfaces. So, comparing normal worldwide deaths to COVID19 deaths is like trying to compare apples and oranges.
I felt your editorial came across as dismissive of the seriousness of Covid19 and smacked a bit of self-centredness in highlighting the inconvenience it has caused you. I like bikes and riding too, but many people have had to alter travel plans etc for the greater good.
PS 3. Was inquiring re flip face helmet as a replacement. Have you heard anything no good? I was looking at a Bell as optical quality must be good… for old farts. Ain’t buying till I sus it out. Like the concept of pulling up to a cocky in back country, throw up the face piece and say, “Gidday Cob!” (Grinning).
I felt your editorial came across as dismissive of the seriousness of Covid19 and smacked a bit of self-centredness in highlighting the inconvenience it has caused you. I like bikes and riding too, but many people have had to alter travel plans etc for the greater good.
I felt your editorial came across as dismissive of the seriousness of Covid19 and smacked a bit of self-centredness in highlighting the inconvenience it has caused you. I like bikes and riding too, but many people have had to alter travel plans etc for the greater good.
Cheers, Willsy
All that said, I think your quoting of figures of the people that die daily from cancer, heart disease, diabetes, mozzies and murders is an unfair comparison! Yes to date the total numbers of COVID19 deaths World Wide would be exceeded by a week’s worth or less perhaps of the
All that said, I think your quoting of figures of the people that die daily from cancer, heart disease, diabetes, mozzies and murders is an unfair comparison! Yes to date the total numbers of COVID19 deaths World Wide would be exceeded by a week’s worth or less perhaps of the
PS. It’s great to see ozzys keen to come to enzed. This covid thing requires you to quarantine for 2 weeks at the moment – hopefully that
I think that all the media reporting though is worrisome for Australian people as it is repeated and repeated and like the bushfires you do not get a break from it. Every time you turn on the T.V, look at Facebook, listen to the radio it is in your face or ears.
I think that all the media reporting though is worrisome for Australian people as it is repeated and repeated and like the bushfires you do not get a break from it. Every time you turn on the T.V, look at Facebook, listen to the radio it is in your face or ears.
I think that all the media reporting though is worrisome for Australian people as it is repeated and repeated and like the bushfires you do not get a break from it. Every time you turn on the T.V, look at Facebook, listen to the radio it is in your face or ears.
I try to reduce my listening/reading/ watching to once or twice a day to keep up with developments - more than that is
I try to reduce my listening/reading/ watching to once or twice a day to keep up with developments - more than that is
I try to reduce my listening/reading/ watching to once or twice a day to keep up with developments - more than that is
Hi Willsy, Wow, you’ve got a lot going on there mate! We tested the CF Moto a while ago and Ralph liked it.
$39 99
WHAT SAY YOU
Regarding the Riders Tour, hopefully a travel bubble has opened up in time, but that Kiwi water on the South Island is pretty good. Flip face helmets are great and if you stick with the quality brands they will have quality visors. Enjoy the Vodka. Maybe have one for us too. Cheers, Stuart.
OILS AIN’T OILS
Hi Stuart
I have been having a little difficulty in getting the oil that I have used for years on my motorcycles so I had a thought I remember reading in one of your earlier editions a write up on oils so I dug it up and discovered that you covered a lot of different oils. After carefully reading the reports I noticed that very few of the oils were suitable for wet clutches. Since I made a dash across a busy hwy in the early eighties and had my clutch momentarily drop its guts due to the Castrol GTX (so I was told) I have been very careful making sure that all oils used in my bikes are suitable for wet clutches, this also helps to keep dry pants when gunning in low gear against the grain.
So, Stuart to me oils ain’t oils for motorcycles (not including those Italian tractors Moto Guzzis) unless they are wet clutch friendly. Yours in motorcycling, Ian Gregory, Regents Park
Hi Ian,
Just about any motorcycle specific oil will be suitable for a wet clutch. I have also run some car engine oils with no problems.
Castrol GTX - that was your first problem! LOL! Cheers, Stuart.
Ian: Well now we come to why my oil (Penrite HPR gas 10) has become scarce as it is high a performance oil suitable for wet clutches made for cars, here is the catch I pay $50 for 5 litres now Penrite highly promote their oil for motorcycles which was originally covered by hpr gas10. Giving you 4 litres for $60 to $100 And to add insult to it my oil regularly
TOUR OPERATOR DIRECTORY
went on special in the car accessories shops sometimes I could pick up 5 litres for $35.
Stuart you will find that a lot of FJR/GTR/RT riders swear by the oil I use it certainly has not given me any reason to jump on a specific motor oil for motorcycles. In your case it may be different as you enjoy 13000+ rpm buzzing your backside on a regular basis. In my case just give me a 360/270/180 degree twin anytime.
Stuart: I have used car engine oils in race bikes before which have worked fine. Nothing like testing a clutch with the rider giving it hell off the start line as the flag drops! Cheers, Stuart.
The guide to the stars - The who’s who in the zoo of motorcycle travel worldwide is what you’ll find here. We’ve travelled with many of them and know them all, so they come highly recommended. In alphabetical order, they are:
MOTORCYCLE TOURS – New Zealand www.motorcycle-hire.co.nz nzbike@motorcycle-hire.co.nz
WORLD ON WHEELS
– Europe, Iceland, South America, India, Asia, Mexico, Africa & Himalaya www.worldonwheels.tours Adventure@WorldOnWheels.Tours
K 1600 GT Sport
N E W B I K E P R I C E S M
ost prices exclude dealer and on road costs and some are ride away prices – ask your local dealer for the best possible price!
APRILIA
www.aprilia.com.au
ROAD
Shiver 900 ABS $15,190
Dorsoduro 900 ABS
Tuono V4 1100 RR $22,490
Tuono V4 1100 Factory $27,190
RSV4 1100 Factory $33,990
SCOOTERS
SR MT 125
Scarabeo 200 ie $5190
BENELLI
www.benelli.com.au
*All Benelli prices are ride away ROAD
TnT 125
S
752 S $12,990 ADV TOURING TRK 502
TRK 502 X $9890
BMW
www.bmwmotorrad.com.au
ROAD
G 310 R
R nineT Scrambler $18,750
R nineT Racer $19,150
R nineT Urban G/S $18,750
R 1250 R $21,240
R 1250 R HP $27,040
R 1250 R Exclusive $26,065
R 1250
$36,990
K 1600 GTL $37,990
K 1600 GTL Elegance $40,490
ADV SPORT
S 1000 XR
S 1000 XR Carbon Sport
ADV TOURING
G 310 GS
F 750 GS
F 750 GS Tour
F 750 GS Low Susp
F 750 GS Tour LS
F 850 GS
F 850 GS Rallye
F 850 GS Rallye X
F 850 GS Tour
F 850 GS Low Susp
F 850 GS Rallye Low Susp
F 850 GS Tour Low Susp
F 850 GSA
$22,190
$29,290
$8090
$13,590
$17,305
$13,840
$17,005
$17,990
$18,390
$22,305
$21,805
$18,240
$18,640
$21,505
$TBA
R 1250 GS $23,490
R 1250 GS Rallye $24,940
R 1250 GS Rallye X $29,890
R 1250 GS Exclusive $28,140
R 1250 GS Spezial $31,390
R 1250 GSA
$25,490
R 1250 GSA Rallye $26,390
R 1250 GSA Rallye X $31,590
R 1250 GSA Exclusive $30,790
R 1250 GSA Spezial $30,540
SCOOTER
C 650 Sport
C 650 GT
CAN-AM (BRP)
www.brp.com
Spyder F3
Spyder F3-S
Spyder F3-T
Spyder F3 Limited
Spyder RT
Spyder RT Limited
CF MOTO
www.cf-moto.com.au
ROAD
$14,150
$14,990
$TBA
$TBA
$TBA
$TBA
$TBA
$TBA
150NK $3290
650NK
650TK
650MT $7990
650GT $7990
DUCATI
www.ducati.com.au
*All Ducati prices are ride away ROAD
Scrambler Sixty2
Scrambler Icon
Scrambler Full Throttle
Scrambler Café Racer
Scrambler Desert Sled $19,290
Scrambler
R 1250 RT Elegance
R 1250 R Spezial
K 1600 B
K 1600 GT
NEW BIKE PRICES
HONDA
www.honda.com.au
ROAD
SCOOTER
NSC110 Dio $2799 MW110 Benly $3349
NSS300A Forza $7999
HUSQVARNA
www.husqvarna-motorcycles.com/au
ROAD
Vitpilen 401 $11,592
Svartpilen 401 $11,592
Vitpilen 701 $18,337
INDIAN
www.indianmotorcycles.com.au
*All Indian Motorcycle prices are ride away CRUISER
Bobber
Race Rep
Chief Dark Horse $28,995
Chief Vintage
Springfield
$32,995
$33,995
Springfield Dark Horse$34,995
Chieftain Dark Horse
Chieftain Limited
Roadmaster
Roadmaster Elite
KAWASAKI
www.kawasaki.com.au
ROAD
Z125 Pro KRT
Z400
Ninja 400
Ninja 400 KRT
Ninja 400 SE
Z650L
Ninja 650/L
Ninja 650/L KRT
Ninja ZX-6R 636
Ninja ZX-6R 636 KRT
$35,995
$36,995
$40,995
$49,995
$4249
$6499
$6699
$6949
$6949
$10,499
$10,699
$10,999
$14,999
$13,999
W800 Café $13,999
W800 SE Black Edition $11,999
W800 Street
Z900 $12,699
Z900RS $16,499
Z900RS Café $16,499
Z1000 $15,999
Ninja 1000 SX $16,999
ZX-10R $20,999
ZX-10R KRT $23,900
ZX-10R SE $26,999
ZX-10RR $35,500
ZX-14R Brembo Ohlins $22,099
Z H2
H2 SX SE+
CRUISER
Vulcan S
Vulcan S SE
Vulcan S Café $10,499
Vulcan 900 Classic
Vulcan 900 Custom $12,599
PEUGEOT
www.peugeotmotorcycles.com.au
*All Peugeot prices are ride away SCOOTER
Tweet 125
125 Pro
ROYAL ENFIELD
www.royalenfieldaustralia.com
*All Royal Enfield prices are ride away ROAD Classic 350
650 Interceptor Custom
650 Interceptor Chrome
650
650
650
SUPER SOCO
www.supersoco.com.au
*All Super Soco prices are ride away ROAD TS
CUX Special Edition Ducati
SUZUKI
www.suzukimotorcycles.com.au ROAD
GSX-S125
Boulevard M109R $19,490
ADV TOURING
V-Strom 250
V-Strom 650 $10,990
V-Strom 650 XT $11,990
V-Strom 1000 XT $16,490
SCOOTER
Address $2490
Burgman 200 $5490
Burgman 400 $10,490
SWM
www.swmmotorcycles.com.au
ROAD
Gran Turismo
$7490
Silver Vase 440 $7490
Gran Milano 440 $7990
SM 500 R $8990
SM 650 R $9490
ADV TOURING
Superdual $9990
TRIUMPH
www.triumphmotorcycles.com.au
*All Triumph prices are ride away
ROAD
Street Triple S 660
$14,900
Street Triple RS $19,800
Street Twin
Street Scrambler
Bonneville T100
Bonneville T100 Black
Bobber
$15,890
$17,990
$17,300
$17,300
$20,590
Bonneville Bobber Black $22,100
Bonneville T120
$19,990
Bonneville T120 Black $19,990
Speedmaster $22,100
Thruxton $21,100
Thruxton R $23,990
Thruxton RS $25,390
Speed Twin $20,350
Daytona Moto2 765
Tiger Sport
$28,990
$19,800
Speed Triple RS $25,290
CRUISER
Rocket 3 R $29,990
Rocket 3 GT $30,900
ADV TOURING
Scrambler 1200 XC $22,500
Scrambler 1200 XE $23,990 Tiger 900 GT & GT Low
Tiger 900 Rally
Tiger 900 GT Pro
Tiger 900 Rally Pro
Tiger 1200 XRx
Tiger 1200 XCx
Tiger 1200 XRt
Tiger 1200 XCa
TFC
TFC
B E A R F A C E D
GLOBAL WARMING FOR BEGINNERS
HOW, THEY ASK, WILL global warming affect motorcycling? What, who are they? Damned if I know, they just pop up here and ask these pathetic, dumb questions. And I’m too polite to tell them to go and warm their… parts, in a variety of interesting ways. The thing is, the thing is, global warming’s effect on motorcycling will be so insignificant compared to its effect on everything else that this question is irrelevant at best. Picture it now: your favorite road under six feet of scummy Pacific Ocean water with all kinds of crap floating in it including the bodies of many threatened species. Threatened? Bloody well dead, now. Even cockroaches will be threatened if the water gets high enough. So much for that stuff about surviving atomic radiation ‘On The Beach’. Did you know that Bill Davidson played Lou Vernon? And what, they didn’t survive? I never got to the end of the movie so I didn’t know that. Kept freaking out when they find that Coke bottle. How did they get Ava Gardner’s agent to agree to a script where she’s an alcoholic who dies from radioactive dust? Payback for saying that New Zealand was closed when she was there? Possible.
And you’re worried about motorcycling?
in a month sweeps the remaining human race into ill-prepared mass graves? Seriously? The front forks on the latest 1800cc enduro are only adjustable for rebound, oh Mother Mary what have we come to. The world will be a stinking, sodden decomposing mess and perhaps I will be unable to purchase cold beer, or even moderately cool beer. And you…?
Well fair enough actually. It’s interesting that when problems become too overwhelming, the population worries about the small stuff instead. The stuff they can see right in front of them. Why is there no lemon juice for my tea kind of thing, in the squalid Russian bunkers of Stalingrad. Not why am I eating stewed rat for the third time this week, but who let the samovar go out?
While the third brandnew pandemic
Much of the world will be under water, but the Stelvio Pass won’t be. So that’s not too bad, except the refineries which turn Black Gold into petrol will all be under water, so we’ll have to push our bikes uphill in order to be able to ride them down again under no power other than gravity. I foresee growing interest in small, light motorcycles with provision for ammunition clips. There, a serious prognostication, kindly leave your payment in strangled rats at the door. Oh, there’s no door. At the ragged curtain. Australia will be fortunate in a way, the Lucky Country once again, because it’s so old that it’s flatter than a witches’ chest and almost all of it will be inundated
when the last of Greenland’s glaciers hit the thermal bottom. We will not be able to kid ourselves when there isn’t enough dry land for us all to plunk even our by-now-lean backsides on. Ho, what luck. Or perhaps not, I don’t know.
Will we resort to ‘transferring’ to PNG? Come on, fellas, remember the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels and all the millions of dollars we’ve poured into your pleasantly hilly country over the years to not a great deal of effect except perhaps bonuses for the international banking system. Not much in the way of motorcycle-able roads of course but we can bring our own D9s and sort that out.
Perish the thought that we might try to invade New Zealand, although it does have some good roads at reasonable altitudes. No, no. Anyway the hang gliders of the Royal New Zealand Air Force would deter us from engaging the high speed America’s Cup catamaran, the pride of the Royal New Zealand Navy, and we’d never make it to Ninety Mile Beach to face the lethal hakas of the Royal New Zealand Army, delivered underarm.
Of course this isn’t going to happen in your or my lifetime. If we get jobs in the international banking sector we will be able to afford CRISPR modifications to our children’s phenotypes so they are born with webs between their fingers and gills which will give them an advantage in underwater motorcycle races. Or maybe not. Life is not simple, and neither is the alternative.
Didn’t Donna Anderson look sweet in ‘On the Beach’? I almost didn’t recognize her in the red swimming costume in ‘Baywatch’. The science in the movie was pretty crap so maybe this is a side effect.
Is that the time? No thanks, I won’t have another puff. I’ve got a column to write. D
YWORDS BORIS MIHAILOVIC
A LITTLE PERSPECTIVE
OU ALL CONSIDER YOURSELVES fairly good riders, don’t you? Competent, “safe” (I so hate that word), and maybe able to show a bit of dash now and again when the planets align, right? Let me just put all of that into some sort of perspective for you.
How you and I ride on the roads –and I don’t care how fast and slick and talented you really think you are in your heart of hearts – has nothing to do with riding a motorcycle properly. At all. It’s not even on the same motorcycle-riding planet. That planet, and you can see it if you know where to look, is the MotoGP grid, the Isle of Man grid, and the Dakar grid.
That’s where motorcycles are ridden properly.
I think we sometimes lose this perspective. Sure, we can all sort of appreciate, from a profound remove, the skill and courage displayed by the likes of Toby Price, Marc Marquez, Valentino Rossi, and John McGuiness as they earn their keep. But I’m convinced we don’t really get just how amazing what they do is. You’ve maybe seen Fabio Quartararo at full lean in a corner, with his elbow and upper-arm scraping along the tarmac. Knees? Meh? Anyone can get a knee down. Get your elbow down, bitch. Then lean a little harder and slide that shoulder as well. Think about that for a second. The only time I’ve ever scraped my elbow or my shoulder on a track
(never mind the road) is when I’ve low-sided myself into the ambulance. This is also why I find all those gronks who criticise what they view as limited lean angles on some bikes as idiot apes smeared with their own excrement.
I did a review on Harley’s FXDR a while back. Harley was kinda chuffed it got a lean-angle out of this thing just the other side of 40-odd degrees. The peanut gallery went into meltdown. “That’s bullshit!” they screeched. “That’s not a real lean-angle!”
Bitches, please. Almost all of you have never even seen what 30-degrees looks like, let alone 40. And the only time you’ll see the 60-plus degrees the MotoGP boys regularly do is just before you’re on your way to the orthopaedic surgeon. There are certainly some very fast and very talented riders out there on the roads. Editor Woodbury here is one of them. The giant bastard is legitimately fast. But even he is not the vaguely-scented air that rides above the steam that comes from the mighty piss the MotoGP boys leave on trees.
Even our superb Australian racing cadre, as god-like as they are to the rest of us, don’t come anywhere near that wee-smelling paddock where the serious stuff rides.
It’s like they are a separate species altogether. And yes, even the clunkiest tail-gunner in MotoGP, like Tito Rabat, could ride several rings around our ASBK grid.
Can you now see where you and I are in terms of riding motorcycles? Can you see how what you and I do on our bikes is not remotely linked to what can actually be done on a bike? Can you stop for one second and give this paradigm some serious and measured thought and try
to appreciate how relatively shit we all are at riding bikes?
Just watch one of the super-slowmotion shots of say Marc Marquez decelerating from 350km/h to 50km/h. His bike is weaving, his back-tyre is leaving earth’s gravitational pull, his front-tyre is re-inventing how KiloPascals are measured as it wants to surrender but is kept alive by the sorcery of his right hand, one of his boots is smoking as it kisses the asphalt to help him redistribute his weight prior to heaving it into a corner so he can scrub one arm of his leathers against the track… Think about what it is you’re actually seeing here.
You’re seeing a motorcycle being ridden properly.
For all intents and purposes, it’s very much like the bike you pretend to ride. Sure, it’s made from milliondollar prototype wizardry and more computers than a Jindalee, but the laws of physics are immutable. And as good as that bike is at doing what it does, it all comes down to the bloke riding it. Otherwise you or I could get on a MotoGP bike and be just like Tito Rabat at the back of the pack.
I think this is why so many of us enjoy watching motorcycle racing. The part of us that relates to the sport is in awe of seeing what mortal men can do.
But if I lived 1000 lifetimes, I would never be able to ride like Rossi, or Lorenzo, or Vinales. Or Toby Price. I am not wired that way. I cannot process input that fast, or react in time to avert disaster. I can certainly fire a bike into Turn One at Eastern Creek at 300km/h. But I’m not coming out the other end on anything but a stretcher.
And I am so OK with that.
There’s no reason why anyone else should not be. D
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AMM DECEMBER
2020
BENELLI 752S / MAP: NUNDLE / POTM: WALKABOUT CREEK HOTEL / XMAS GIFTS / VIETNAM / BACK COUNTRY / BMW TRAINING / BMW RACER / TOWRANG
