Australian Motorcyclist Issue #96

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IT’S A NEW YEAR: GET A NEW HAT! LOTS OF HELMETS INSIDE

A

FREE I

EAR-OU NSIDE: T

T AU S T R

AL

TR ORCYCLE T O M N IA

KAWASAKI NINJA 1000 SX V SUZUKI GSX-S1000F SPORTING IS THE NEW TOURING

BROUGH SUPERIOR LAWRENCE OF ARABIA WOULD HAVE LOVED THEM

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RY 2 0 2 1

BMW

R 18

FIRST EDITION

LIKE, WOW! BLINGTASTIC

THE WORLD’S MOST BEAUTIFUL BIKES DESIGN, ART, DESIRE AT QAGOMA

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340798 000228

0 2

AUS $9.95 (Inc GST) NZ $10.95 (Inc GST)

AV E L M A

FEBRUA

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CONTENTS

“LIFE IS LIKE A NEW HAT. YOU DON’T KNOW IF IT SUITS YOU IF YOU KEEP TRYING IT ON IN FRONT OF YOUR OWN MIRROR.” Shirley MacLaine

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RAM-AIR GOODNESS

SPECIAL FEATURE

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HELMETS Shiny new hats are here and waiting

TESTING

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BMW R 18 FIRST EDITION Fine jewellery KAWASAKI NINJA 1000 SX v SUZUKI GSX-S1000F The ‘new’ tourers BROUGH SUPERIOR We ride the SS100 and Pendine Sands Racer

TRAVEL

62 78 90

AWESOME DESTINATIONS Morocco delights

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MOROCCO, BABY!

PUB OF THE MONTH 21 beauties for 2021 FALL COLOURS TOUR NZ Fingers crossed for this ripper!

TEAR-OUT MAP

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GLASSHOUSE MOUNTAINS, QLD No glass, but plenty of corners

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BLINGER

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ART, DESIGN & DESIRE

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EVENT

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DESIGN, ART, DESIRE EXHIBITION The world’s most beautiful motorcycles

TECHNICAL

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EXQUISITE STUNNERS

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KAWASAKI OR SUZUKI?

61 70 76

KAWASAKI Z900 RESTO Part 14 – paint time!

CUSTOM Suzuki GT550 LONG TERMERS Gone up in white smoke

MORE GREATNESS

6 8 106 109 112 114

EDITORIAL Crystal ball gazing NEWS Dive on in WHAT SAY YOU? Talk it up NEW BIKE PRICES 2021 models starting to roll in BEAR FACED He’s cold BORIS Doing wrong

Australian Motorcyclist

Australian Motorcyclist Magazine

Australian Motorcyclist Magazine

GLASS HOUSES AND CORNERS

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@AusMotrCyclist

Please enjoy Australian MOTORCYCLIST Magazine responsibly and add this issue to your collection.

MOST BACK ISSUES ARE STILL AVAILABLE; just visit the website www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au or drop us a line to contactus@ausmotorcyclist.com.au

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EDITORSPEAKS Crystal ball Editor Stuart Woodbury Contributing Editor J Peter Thoeming Sales Manager Ralph Leavsey-Moase ralph@ausmotorcyclist.com.au Designer Jacqueline Page Photographers Nick Wood Creative, Half-Light Photographic Contributors Jacqui Kennedy, Robert Lovas, Boris Mihailovic, Chris Pickett, The Possum, Colin Whelan, Bob Wozga Editorial contactus@ausmotorcyclist.com.au Subscription enquiries www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au info@ausmotorcyclist.com.au

Printer PRINTED IN AUSTRALIA Distributor Gordon and Gotch 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.

This publication is copyright. Other than for the purposes of research, study, criticism, review, parody or satire and subject to the conditions prescribed under the Copyright Act 1968, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted without the prior written permission of Australian Motorcyclist Magazine Pty Ltd. Opinions expressed within this publication do not necessarily represent those of Australian Motorcyclist Magazine Pty Ltd. No responsibility is accepted by Australian Motorcyclist Magazine Pty Ltd or the editor for the accuracy of any statement, opinion or advice contained in the text or advertisements. Readers should rely on their own enquiries in making decisions tailored to their own interest.

2020

IS DONE AND DUSTED and it sounds good to say that, but the effects 2020 had on many people are yet to really be revealed, I think.

What this will do to and/or for the economy is something for which many people would love to have a crystal ball. I too, wish I had one of those crystal ball things as I would have seen the ‘fun’ my newly acquired GSX1100 has brought.

I went for a blast out to Wisemans Ferry and three-quarters of the way there, boom! The GSX went onto three cylinders and blew white smoke everywhere. It still ran, ‘okay’ so I limped it home and with the help of my mate, Chris, we whipped the engine out to reveal a blown head gasket.

I took all the bits to Shaun at D Moto Motorcycle Engineering where we’ll rebuild it and he was shocked – one of the main causes was that the head gasket was too big for the bore size. Whoever built the engine put an 84mm gasket on a 78mm bore – what this means is the gases would get trapped in the space between the barrel and head, causing excess heat to build up. This resulted in number one and number three cylinders having the gasket burnt through, with number three being the final straw and blowing out into the cam chain tunnel. Remember that old TV ad, “Oh, Mr Hart, what a mess!”

Well, about two litres of oil pumped out all over the bike and rear tyre – it made for some fun times as I limped it home.

Now, not only was the head gasket an issue, but the top of the barrel isn’t flat and neither is the surface of the head! Combine all this and it was a disaster waiting to happen.

So, it was off to see Jack at KC Engine Balancing and he skimmed both barrel and head so we can now have a good seal. I ordered some gaskets from Suzuki Performance Parts in the UK and the rest from Mick Hone Motorcycles.

When Shaun and I were looking at the bottom end we saw a couple of things we weren’t entirely happy with, so have decided to pull the whole thing apart and give it a once over. Pretty easy to do as its’s just an alternator, clutch cover and sump gasket that need to be replaced.

Splitting the cases is a bit of Threebond to put back together.

So, that’s that bit of excitement, but the real excitement as you’ll read further on in this issue, I got the paintwork done for the Z900!

And, boy does it look simply amazing. Mark at Sydney Custom Spraypainting is a master. If you want top quality he should be on your list to check out, and don’t forget my mate Bassar at 2SUS Custom Resprays – show quality and trophy winners both of them.

Enjoy!

Cheers, Stuart.

Oh, Mr Hart, what a mess!

Yep, that’s blown

*Recommended retail price Copyright © Australian Motorcyclist Magazine Pty Ltd ACN 161 432 506 ISSN 2201-5442

We encourage you to keep or recycle this magazine.

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THE KAWASAKI W800 CAFÉ IS INFUSED WITH THE ESSENCE OF HISTORY. Retro café styling, power for all roads and modern performance capabilities, the W800 CAFÉ is for an experienced rider.

Lineage that dates back to the original W1, it is the ideal platform to represent true Japanese style and innovation in the modern classic category.

Disc Brakes with ABS � Café Racer Styling � Tuned Exhaust System � L.E.D. Headlamp � 41mm Telescopic Forks � Modern Vertical Twin facebook.com/ kawasakiaus

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@kawasakimotors

KawasakiAustralia

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7/01/2021 6:56:03 PM

NEWS TOUGH STUFF

with stage two being one of those he led from the front but then lost huge amounts of time. Going into stage three, Toby was placed 29th and made up some thirty minutes to be sitting in third overall as the print rollers started. Debutant Aussie, Daniel Sanders is having an impressive ride with consistent top ten finishes.

He leads the rookie class by over twenty minutes at this stage.

We will have a wrap up of Dakar 2021 in the next issue.

As we went to print, Dakar Rally 2021 is in its early stages and the routes have been extremely tough, tougher than in the past couple of years. This has caused many riders to really struggle this year including those standing on the top of the timesheets.

Often they lost that lead and loads of time because the routes were so difficult to ride and navigate.

Toby Price has already won two of the first three stages,

AH, THAT ÖHLINS FEELIN’ Vespa GTS300 owners can now make their stylish machines look even better and feel great. Öhlins has launched new eye-catching front and rear suspension upgrades for the iconic scooter. Öhlins’ message focuses on how its suspension technology transmits “feeling” from tyres to Vespa rider to make him or her feel agile yet confident, stable and comfortable.

Signature yellow springs and gold piggy-back reservoirs give that Vespa stylishness a subtle boost and both the single high-pressure gas type front shock absorber, with stylish piggy-back reservoir (part no. PI 901) and twin rear emulsiontype shocks (part no. PI 902) are adjustable for spring preload and transform the way the Vespa GTS300 handles, thanks to superior damping control. See your local dealer to order.

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SPARK UP CFMOTO has hit the switch on its global ZEEHO electric subbrand with the debut of the Cyber concept vehicle, the production version of which is due to go on sale in China in the first half of 2021 before reaching Australian showrooms in 2022.

Through CFMOTO’s collaboration with Kiska Design, ZEEHO electric vehicles are also aesthetically driven while integrating form with function for future generations. This symbiosis can clearly be seen and experienced throughout several design cues and junctions of materials of the Cyber concept. Examples of this include determined and progressive design coupled with fluid body lines, doublewinglet neon lights and striking LED headlights.

As the first of several ZEEHO electric vehicles, the Cyber concept debuts ZEEHO’s

Cobra powertrain, which comprises a 10kW mid-mounted and watercooled IP6-certified electric motor delivering 21.3Nm of torque.

This gives the lightweight Cyber concept a convenient 0-50km/h sprint time of just 2.9 seconds onto a top speed of 110km/h.

Industry leader Farasis Energy supplies the vehicle with a premium, pouch-style 4kWh lithium-ion battery, providing the Cyber concept an effective New European Driving Cycle range of more than 130 kilometres between charges.

Additionally, a fast-charging system recharges 80 per cent of the battery’s capacity within 30 minutes, thus effectively eliminating range anxiety.

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FROM

$9790 RIDEAWAY @RoyalEnfieldAusNZ #ONEYEAROFPLAYTIME

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NEWS

GIMME MORE GRUNT Moto Guzzi is proud to present a new and important evolution in the history of the V7, a prominent symbol of Italian motorbikes around the world.

The revamping is so profound that the progressive numbering in Roman numerals, which had characterised the various evolutions of the model since its return to the market in 2007, is gone. But the character and authenticity remain intact, as these values are destined to last over time and embedded in the genetic code

of every Moto Guzzi.

Two versions are available: the patriarch, V7 Stone, with its strong and minimalistic style, and is joined by the V7 Special, with its classic and elegant lines.

A new Moto Guzzi 850cc engine makes its début on the new V7, a close derivative of the one that powers the V85 TT. This is the most recent and modern powertrain from Mandello, which guarantees better performance and overall greater efficiency in order to provide maximum riding pleasure,

TWO MORE THAN TWO They might have four wheels but Urban Moto Imports are pleased to announce a new partnership with Segway Powersports.The all-new petrol and hybrid SxS and ATV range will be distributed by Urban Moto in Australia and New Zealand.Three models, Snarler,Villain and Fugleman and variants within these model names will be available. Should we give them a whirl? Let us know.

fun and reliability.

To top that off the new V7s have refined styling, better comfort, better handling and more features.

V7 Stone is available in three satinfinish colour schemes: Nero Ruvido (Black), Azzurro Ghiaccio (Blue) and Arancione Rame (Orange).

The colour variants of the V7 Special are Blu Formale (Blue) and Grigio Casual (Grey).

They will arrive mid-year: get excited about these new models in the Moto Guzzi range.

WOW! CHECK THEM OUT Yep, 2020 was a tough year, with not a lot of touring going on. So just a little reminder that World On Wheels is still here, ready and itching to go! Meanwhile, check out a little snap shot from days on the road... worldonwheels. tours

GET IT ON! BMW GS Safari dates have been announced for 2021.

The ‘GS Safari’ is slotted for May 23 – 28 heading off from Townsville to Cairns. Bookings are live as you read this bmwsafari.com. The harder ‘GS Safari Enduro’ dates will be available soon and we should have them in the next issue.

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A NEW ERA BEGINS Aprilia Parallel Twin Engine 660 CC Engine Size Cornering ABS Full LED Light Assembly TFT Instrument Cluster Latest Generation APRC Package Upside-down Fork with Ø 41 MM Adjustable Stanchions

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Find Your Nearest Dealer at www.aprilia.com/au_EN/

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TEST

BMW R18 FIRST EDITION

CRUISING JEWELLERY WORDS STUART PHOTOS NICK WOOD CREATIVE

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TEST

B

MW HAS DIPPED ITS feet into the cruiser world before and it wasn’t pretty. The R 1200 C was hit hard with the ugly stick, but some people liked them (I guess?) as you do see them once in a blue moon.

All of that is forgiven though with the release of the R 18 First Edition – this thing is one of the prettiest motorcycles on the market and while you can look at as many photos of it as you like, it is when you’re standing in front of the R 18 that you see just how stunning it really is. Imagine a beautiful piece of jewellery and this is the motorcycle form of exactly that.

Clearly inspired by BMW’s early boxer machines from the 1920s and ’30s like the R 32 and R 5, elements are almost art deco, like the R7 prototype from 1934.

The frame blends into the swing-arm to give the impression

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it’s a traditional hardtail. The fishtail exhausts mirror the R 5 from 1936, the exposed nickel-plated shaft drive is lovely, even the little manual chrome lever which activates a reverse gear is neatly tucked away. The centrally mounted clock has ‘Berlin Built’ inscribed on the dials, the double pinstriping appears hand-painted.

In fact, the R 18 looks like a one-off special, not a mass-produced bike which has just been wheeled off the production line. It’s classical yet has up-to-date features like LED lights, modern suspension, and rider aids.

I really like it, and obviously, that huge air-cooled 1802cc boxer is the king-pin which holds the design together and gives the R 18 such a distinctive image – it dominates the bike.

For a standard production bike, which looks like it’s just rolled out of a museum, it still has to work and

handle. So, is 345kg simply too much bulk? Has BMW managed to make 1802cc rideable? I donned the open faced Shoei and set off into the countryside…

When I picked up the R 18 First Edition I noticed the ‘pillion seat’, but the lack of pillion pegs. This is a single seater and to me, it is really odd why a ‘pillion seat’ has been plonked on the super sexy rear guard.

I soon made light work of that when I got home though, a couple of screws and off it came – better to show the pinstriping than a useless seat.

From the side, the massive 1802cc Boxer engine doesn’t look overly big, but once you sit on the R 18 you quickly notice how massive the heads are and how wide the engine is.

It gives the R 18 some real presence and has people goggling all over it whenever you stop.

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TEST

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The right cylinder is set closer to the rider, as it sits further back on the crank which runs the centre line of the bike. There’s an additional third bearing on the crank which moves the pistons further apart - exaggerating the appearance of the opposed cylinders with exposed pushrod tubes.

When your feet are on the mid-way pegs, your shins are close to the huge cylinders and your right boot will touch the underneath of the cylinder when using the rear brake; you can feel the heat in traffic, which would be nice in winter, but so long as you’re moving it’s not really a concern at other times.

The engine starts with a charismatic rocking, and if you’ve never ridden an opposed twin before, it may take you by surprise. Each blip of the throttle thrusts the bike to the left with some vigour - I love it. You can also feel the ‘twist’ when you snap the throttle open hard and/or when changing gears. At idle, the bar ends dance around while the instrument cluster vibrates slightly, adding to the appeal.

It has character all right, something I was afraid BMW would dilute.

It’s a shame the fish-tail twin exhausts don’t sound as loud as they look. There is a little bark when you start it up, and at certain low speeds,

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TEST

but after that it’s a little tame. I know BMW must conform to Euro-5, but from such a large, charismatic engine I was hoping for a little more. I don’t want it to be annoying, which scares dogs and pensioners, but just a bit of snap, crackle and pop would be nice on overrun.

The power is smooth, the fuelling is excellent, and you can really feel the difference in the power modes, Rain, Roll and Rock – no, I’m not joking.

As you’d expect all the work is low down in the rev range; just tickle the throttle for progressive acceleration, you don’t really need to pass 3000rpm.

Peak power is at 4750rpm but after that it tails off to eventually find a soft rev limiter just after 5500rpm. It does get a little vibey in the last part of the rev range, noticeably above 4000rpm, but if you’re revving it that hard, then you’re not really riding the big boxer

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how it was designed. Traction control can be turned off if you wish, too.

Instead, simply short shift and enjoy the torque. The gearbox is smooth, and the revs noticeably drop when you change from fifth to sixth gear.

It will happily pull from just over 1200rpm in top but for 60km/h areas and less, I was back to fifth. Sixth gear is noticeably tall, which is perfect for cruising. I did find 120-130km/h indicated on the instrument dial was about as fast you’d go without those vibes starting to creep in – this is perfectly well in tune with ‘cruising’.

One thing I did note with the R 18 is this is probably the first BMW I’ve ridden (in this price range) that doesn’t have cruise control – not a big deal but I kind of expected it to be standard fare, when you become so accustom to cruise control being standard on just about every other BMW model.

The instrument dial houses most of the information you’d need but I would like a distance to empty or a fuel gauge to help with country riding. When the light comes on you have around 40km until you’ll be busting your pooper trying to push this big beast.

There is no getting away from the fact this a 345kg bike; add the rider and we’re easily over 400kg, getting close to the weight of a decent sized bullock. Some bikes hide their weight once moving, and the BMW does this, feeling far lighter than it is, but those huge protruding cylinders and the rock between gear changes are a constant reminder of the bike’s girth. You’re always aware you’re on a big bike, but with the weight being low down and good suspension set up, handling is quite impressive. The forks don’t dive or buckle, the shock and ride are

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TEST

impressive, it feels like the front is communicating with the rear and viceversa. Some big cruisers feel like the front was designed by one team and the rear by another, or they thought about the looks but left the handling for Friday afternoon. The BMW breaks that rule, and the one big thing that most cruisers do – try and break your spine, the R 18 doesn’t!

A funny thing to make mention of but once you’ve ridden a cruiser and have to get put on the stretching rack to readjust your spine you’ll really appreciate the R 18’s suspension setup.

Rather than steer into corners, it rolls into corners. You roll the bike over on its large 19-inch front wheel and onto its side. It’s relatively easy to scrape the pegs, which thankfully are hinged and not fixed. But even when the pegs cause a rooster of sparks it doesn’t feel like the R 18 is on the limit and about to head into the nearest eucalypt or take down a small house.

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The riding position is comfortable, the bar not too wide, and the vibrations are apparent but not annoying in any way. The seat was comfortable enough between fuel stops. My only gripe is you can’t fit forward pegs thanks to the huge cylinders sticking out – it would be nice to have the option to stretch your legs if you wished.

Braking is strong and even under heavy use didn’t show any sign of fade. The lever is adjustable and there’s a nice feel. ABS comes as standard and isn’t too intrusive on the front, but it’s relatively easy to get the rear ABS activating. The rear brake is linked to the front adding to some extra feel.

Because there is so much compression from the huge engine, BMW has fitted an engine braking management system, which prevents the rear from locking up during fast down changes. At times you can feel this working, reducing the engine

braking, giving a two-stroke feeling as the bike carries speed into corners.

When you do see the R 18 in the flesh (or metal) the attention to detail is what really strikes you. The fuel cap, tops of the forks, exposed driveshaft, front engine cover and the list goes on and on you do see where the $29,155 ride away price tag is going.

The list of accessories is huge and designed in partnership with US bike designer Roland Sands.

The R 18 is really a blank canvas for your imagination to run wild. I reckon the Bobber kit, some machined covers to make the engine look more old school and some other little items would be about it, but you can go the whole hog and turn this into a totally different looking machine, complete with Vance & Hines mufflers.

I applaud BMW for producing such a stunning cruiser, so different from anything else on the market.

The cruiser market has been ticking

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OGGY KNOBBS are available from your favourite motorcycle store.

For more information visit www.kenma.com.au email: sales@kenma.com.au or phone 02 9484 0777. /KenmaAus

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@KenmaAustralia

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TEST

Specs BMW R 18 FIRST EDITION PRICE: $29,155 (ride away) WARRANTY: Two years, unlimited distance SERVICING INTERVALS: Every 10,000km or 12 months ENGINE: 1802cc air/oil-cooled twin cylinder, 107.1x100mm bore/stroke, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder POWER: 67kW @ 4750rpm TORQUE: 158Nm @ 3000rpm

over for decades with similarly styled models, but now BMW has entered with a huge boxer statement, on looks alone I love it. It’s a 2020s model dressed for the 1920s and 1930s, and with some personal styling with the range of accessories it really can be made to look ‘classic’. The dramatic Boxer engine holds the design together while delivering some real-world performance and, for a big bike, it will go around corners scraping its pegs all day long. Yes, it’s heavy, yes it rocks from side to side and vibrates at high revs, but that’s called character!

The ‘traditional’ cruiser competition should be worried. D

TRANSMISSION: 6-speed, dry single-plate clutch, shaft final drive SUSPENSION: Front, 49mm telescopic fork, non-adjustable, travel 120mm. Rear, monoshock, adjustable preload, travel 90mm.

DIMENSIONS: Seat height 690mm, weight 345kg (wet), fuel capacity 16 litres, wheelbase 1731mm TYRES: Front, 120/70/R19. Rear, 180/65/R16 BRAKES: Front, twin 300mm discs with four-piston ABS calipers. Rear, 300mm disc, four-piston ABS caliper.

FUEL CONSUMPTION: 6.34 litres per 100km, premium unleaded THEORETICAL RANGE: 252km COLOURS: Black VERDICT: Art in motion

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Fall Colours Tour proudly in association with AUSTRALIAN MOTORCYCLIST MAGAZINE

TOUR DATE S 3 – 18 April 2021

See more of New Zealand’s South Island with this 14 day fully guided and supported tour. It’s one of the best times to tour, with the contrast of the snow on the mountain peaks against the blue sky and the trees changing colour, a truly magical time to ride.

Low NZ$250 fully refundable deposit, and we don’t want your final payment until we know you can get here.

We’re New Zealand’s leading motorcycle tour company, and for good reason! We’re proud to be the Official Travel Partner of BMW Motorrad in New Zealand, be assured that your tour is in the hands of experts.

We can organise any type of tour you want, individual independent tour to private group tours and motorcycle rentals.

CONTACT Paradise Motorcycle Tours, NOW! PHONE + 64 27 476 5035 W info@paradisemotorcycletours.co.nz

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HISTORY

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THE MOTORCYCLE: ART, DESIGN, DESIRE

w o h s The ows h s f o

WORDS THE BEAR PHOTOS QAGOMA, THE BEAR

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HISTORY Creating beauty from a seemingly disparate collection of forms, the MV simply shines.

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The displays bring not only

Italy is well represented, and not

wonder but also memories

only by this trio of Ducati, MV

for many of the viewers.

Agusta and Laverda bikes.

S

OMETIMES THE PLANS OF the best curators and most innovative museums go “agley” as Robbie Burns has it. If you needed a reminder that our fates are governed by “God willin’ and the creek don’t rise” then COVID-19 has provided it. That applies especially to the

current exhibition at the Queensland Art Gallery’s Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA)and the show’s curators, physicist Professor Charles M. Falco and writer and filmmaker Ultan Guilfoyle. If those names look familiar, take a cigar: yes, they were the curators of the Guggenheim’s

1998 blockbuster ‘Art of the Motorcycle’ exhibition as well.

Where that exhibition traced significant moments in the development of motorcycle design, QAGOMA’s takes the motorcycle from the past into the future, and focuses on both art and technology.

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HISTORY

Darryl Villanueva’s Eve is a perfect example of the Vietnamese school of slick customs.

‘The Motorcycle: Design, Art, Desire’ features 100 bikes as against the Guggenheim’s 114, but it reaches further both in time and in intricacy.

God was willin’ enough, and the exhibition delivers every bit of its promise. The creek, in the form of COVID-19, did however rise and for a while it looked like an absolutely world-class exhibition would only be seen by Queenslanders.

Fortunately the creek fell again, and the Queensland government opened the bridges. It still remains to be seen how many overseas enthusiasts will have the opportunity to see the show, of course. If you’re in that category, you can find a lot of the material on the museum’s blog blog.qagoma.qld. gov.au/tag/the-motorcycle; that is something. There is also reason to hope that the various vaccines will

make international travel possible again before “The Motorcycle” closes at the end of April 2021.

The exhibition opens with the same amazing sight as the Guggenheim show: the opener is the steam-powered 1871 Perreaux Vélocipède, the world’s first motorcycle. Missing is the world’s first internal combustion engined motorcycle, Daimler’s Reitwagen, but that’s no surprise. It no longer exists,

Indian’s impressive Straight 4 is one of the belles of the QAGOMA ball.

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www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

7/01/2021 6:57:58 PM

ALL NEW PRO TANK BAGS, RINGS AND ACCESSORIES.

The evolutionary new range of PRO tank bags from SW-MOTECH feature easy-fit magnetic alignment with a secure snap-lock fixing mechanism. The MOLLE system allows for the attachement of additional waterproof smartphone and tablet holders.

With 9 new PRO tank bags to choose from there’s a perfect fit for every bike.

Free PRO keyring with every tank bag For more information call or visit one of our showrooms or shop online at: SYDNEY Unit 1, Race Central 32-34 Peter Brock Drive Eastern Creek NSW 2766

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HISTORY burnt in a factory fire. There is a wonderful replica in the Birdwood motor museum, built in Karratha.

It might have been an idea to include that, but who am I to ask for more bikes? You can always go and see it in South Australia – once again, COVID willing.

Inside the show, what first greets your eyes is a simply beautiful Belgian Minerva tricycle with a Mills and Fulford Forecar, and next is the first American display, a 1989 Cleveland tricycle, its design based on the 1896 French De DionBouton and powered by their engine but with a unique claim to fame: the first suspension on a motorcycle.

It wasn’t long before Australian manufacturers jumped onto the motorcycle wagon. Most of them relied on imported components including Villiers engines, but Brisbane local David Spencer designed and manufactured his bike

And the world’s first known

Back at the beginning

attempt at suspension on

– where I promise

a motorcycle, on the 1898

you will go – is that

Cleveland Tricycle.

Minerva tricycle.

The world’s first known motorcycle, the steampowered 1871 Perreaux Vélocipède. It opened the Guggenheim show, too.

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www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

7/01/2021 8:56:57 PM

Of course it had to be here: Burt Munro’s World’s Fastest Indian, open to view.

The polished-metal futuristic C-Series from Dennis Savic is another Australian bike.

www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

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HISTORY THE ULTIMATE IN DIY Disdaining the common habit of Australian motorcycle builders at the beginning of the 20th Century of importing the majority of parts, David Spencer made his own at his home in the Brisbane suburb of Torwood.The exhibition includes not only one of the two remaining motorcycles he built, but also the wooden molds he carved for the crankcase and cylinder parts.

In and about 1906, Spencer built something like a dozen bikes which included at least eight with engines to his own design.

He even designed and made his own carburettors. He did not copy the engines; while they were conventional side-valves, he designed them himself.

Spencer was even successful in various competitions, and the bikes gathered a following. Sadly, he had to decline an order for 50 of his machines by the Queensland police because he lacked the capital. Imagine what Australia’s motorcycle industry would be like today if he’d launched a major motorcycle marque all the way back in 1906.

Some of the wooden molds Spencer carved by hand to cast his bike parts.

David Spencer designed and made as many parts as he could himself, including the carburettor.

This Spencer, one of two survivors, still makes a handsome motorcycle today.

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www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

7/01/2021 6:58:20 PM

An early Australian motorcycle, the impeccable JAPpowered Whiting.

almost entirely locally (see box).

Other Australian-made motorcycles include the immaculate 1914 Whiting with an imported JAP engine but locally designed and made suspension at both ends. The semi-elliptical leaf springs were designed to cope with Australia’s then-appalling roads, an excellent selling point. Saville Whiting even bought a factory in Melbourne

to manufacture his bikes, but hopes for mass production never eventuated.

The ‘Drover’s Dog’ from DEUS, meanwhile, is a Yamaha SR400 set up to carry a surfboard. Another innovative Australian design, the electric Savic C-Series, closes the show. I hope Dennis Savic has better luck than Saville Whiting.

I spent one entire circuit of the

exhibition (I made four in all) looking for a space filler, a bike that perhaps didn’t deserve to be there but had found its way in because, well, there was a space to fill. No luck with that.

Everything tells a part of the grand story, and while I could probably think of another 50 bikes I would love to see included, I am not sure I could justify them as clearly.

An exercise in minimalism,

The Australian speed

Norbert Riedel’s post-war

record Vincent is also the

Imme warrants more

most expensive bike ever

than one look.

bought at auction.

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HISTORY Of course there had to be a DEUS bike as well; this is a custom Yamaha SR400.

While the motorcycles are all seminal in one way or another, they are not all well-known. There are Harley-Davidsons but also Crockers; Triumphs but also a Peugeot; a Honda but also a Tilbrook and a Majestic.

One fascinating exercise is following the many ways in which different clever engineers have solved the same problems. A large-scale example of that is the pairing of a Vespa and a Honda Cub; both post-WW2 and intended as solutions to the challenge of getting women to ride, but completely different in their execution. And both highly successful, as well – the Honda is the world’s best-selling motorcycle while the Vespa is its best-selling scooter.

Sometimes the juxtaposition of bikes in the displays creates resonance that the curators may or may not have intended. In a spectacular arrangement of Italian motorcycles, the Green Frame 750 SS Ducati with its spare beauty steals the show to the extent that the other, faired and modern, motorcycles tend to fade into the background. Its creator, the great Ing. Fabio Taglioni, gave new meaning to the phrase “less is more”. Mind you, when I owned one of these, I found the cramped riding position almost 34

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You can just see the tank of its engine donor behind this Craig Vetter designed Triumph Hurricane.

www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

7/01/2021 6:58:29 PM

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HISTORY The other outstanding beauty at the show, Georges Roy’s 1930 art deco Majestic.

ANYBODY HOME? This bloke seems to be intent on a chat or looking for some clue behind the goggly eyes of the 1926 Ner-a-Car. It’s a pity that the received wisdom claiming that its name is from ‘nearly a car’ is wrong. Designer and builder Carl A Neracher just named it after himself. I can’t urge you strongly enough to follow his example and give yourself a chance to communicate with this and the 99 other exhibits at ‘The Motorcycle: Design, Art, Desire’. Well, they spoke to me!

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unbearably painful; but only once I stopped.

The MV Agusta 750S also somehow translates a simple, utilitarian and economical design into a transcendently integrated look.

Unlike the Ducati, the MV overcomes seemingly unrelated parts – does that chunky humped seat really go with the ‘flying saucer’ tank? – to produce a consistent whole. Oh, I suppose that the association of the marque with the world’s best-ever (and possibly most amiable) motorcycle racer Giacomo Agostini doesn’t hurt either. And unlike the SS, the 750S I once rode was comfortable, too.

The futuristic and customised bikes on show range from slick styling exercises including one Australian-built chopper to various electric bikes and even one-wheelers.

Those in turn range from the Vespa Elettrica, which pretty much looks just like any other Vespa, to the startling Zooz Concept 01 and that reassuringly chunky and solid Savic C-Series.

The curators have resisted the temptation to rely on the fame of racers and their bikes. The only current competition machine on display is Toby Price’s KTM, in a thoughtful nod

www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

7/01/2021 6:58:32 PM

Toby Price’s 2016 Dakarwinning KTM is a tribute to its Queenslander rider.

Thank you to a resident of the exhibition’s host State. Other than that, there are some dirt, dirt track and speedway racers displaying their technology as well as two speed record bikes: the Vincent Black Lightning on which Jack Ehret set an Australian record (also the world’s most expensive motorcycle sold at auction) and the world’s fastest Indian, displayed in all its glory on the half shell.

Initially, the descriptions of the displays may seem rather sparse, but QAGOMA has made use of cutting-edge technology to provide a range of immersive interactives to enhance the visitor experience.

The mobile companion site enables you to navigate the show and dive deeper into the history and stories behind each bike on display.

You can also take a virtual seat on a 1950s Vespa, 1960s Dirt Bike or an Electric ‘Future’ Bike and go riding through a themed landscape. Or you can spend some time building and customising your own bike, in a touchscreen interactive display – and then save the result to show your friends.

Film clips liven up the display galleries and ‘Motorcycles on Screen’ is a major film program of more than 50 titles

showing at GOMA for the duration of the exhibition.

‘The Motorcycle’ will run until the 26th of April 2021 featuring live custom bike builds, DJs and more.

It will be accompanied by virtual talks and tours, storytelling events and trivia nights. On 27 February and 18 April 2021, ‘Motorcycles on the Green’ will feature more than 60 motorcycles from local community groups.

You will find further information at qagoma.qld.gov.au, and if you live outside Australia, cross your fingers for a vaccine and add up your airline bonus points.

This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for anyone interested not only in motorcycles but in engineering ingenuity and the beauty of technology. Tickets to ‘The Motorcycle: Design, Art, Desire’ are on sale at qagoma.qld.gov.au/ themotorcycle . Don’t miss it or face the same regrets I have had since missing ‘The Art of the Motorcycle’.

The Bear would like to thank the Queensland government for financing the show, as well as QAGOMA for making it happen and for inviting him up to see it.

As well as to the curators, thanks are due to many other people for making this exhibition happen.

“An exhibition of this scale requires the dedicated assistance of staff across the building,” says Chris Saines, QAGOMA Director, “with special acknowledgement of the project’s curatorial coordinator, Design Manager Michael O’Sullivan… Similarly, Deputy Director of Collection and Exhibitions Simon Elliott has made a formative contribution.”

Government support for QAGOMA was also vital, as was public compliance with COVID-19 rules. Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch says that the ability to open the exhibition “is a testament to the achievement of all Queenslanders who have listened to and followed the health advice.”

My personal thanks for the invitation to the exhibition as well as much other help to QAGOMA, Media Manager Amelia Gundelach and Media Officer Greer Townshend. Thank you, too, to Michael O’Sullivan for sparing me his time. D

www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

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7/01/2021 6:58:36 PM

S P E C I A L F E A T U R E H e lm e ts

OUT WITH D O E !

T L w e H n e h t h t i w n i And COMPILED BY STUART

If you wear your helmet every day you’ll soon notice a foul smell wafting from the inside – it’s all those body juices mixing in with your helmet liner – pong!

You can wash the liners of most helmets nowadays but you might find the liner changes shape in the wash.

The best way to overcome all of this fuss is to get a new helmet! The ‘normal’ recommendation is to keep a helmet up to five years before you replace it.

This can also be to do with the foam inside the shell becoming more susceptible to failure and reducing its effectiveness as the helmet ages.

So, as you normally know with our special features, we called out to the various distributors and offered them free space. Here is what they want you to know about – think about that when making your purchase.

AMM 40

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www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

7/01/2021 6:58:40 PM

www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

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7/01/2021 6:58:43 PM

mig.bike/innotesco.com.au and selected dealers

C4

P

The Schuberth 0 90 1 $ C4 Pro redefines ro the flip-up helmet and represents the new benchmark for touring and sports riders with the highest demands. No pendulum effect, no distracting noise, no premature tiring. The built-in sunshield drops down well without touching your nose. The C4 Helmet comes equipped to accommodate the SC1 communication system (sold separately). To guarantee ideal reception, the C4 Pro comes out of the box with integrated antennae to boost reception, as well as pre-installed speakers and microphone. Schuberth’s C4 Pro has a big visor – horizontal view is fairly typical, but the deep aperture means you get a larger field of view horizontally making looking down to your pockets easy.

Available in sizes XS – 3XL.

R a ci n g S ixt ie s

O

vespa.com/ au or your local dealer

Vespa Racing Sixties helmet features tri-colour graphics, in line with the Racing Sixties Vespa, rubber trim & carbon fibre visor brackets with a gold ring that matches the wheels of this heritage model. The inner microfibre lining is removable and the retractable sun visor is easy to use. ECE homologated.

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5 49

VESPA

Face Helme n t$ pe

o

rb Ca

on $1290

C4 Pr

SCHUBERTH

Helmets

The new Schuberth C4 Pro Carbon model is the top-of the range helmet with a distinctive large checker-board style carbon-fibre weave. Revealed through the carefully-applied and well finished graphics, it looks great. Coolmax interior, one touch sun visor, aerodynamically tuned shell and loads more. The C4 Pro and C4 Pro Carbon both come with an antenna, speakers and microphone ready fitted for a Senamade intercom module. Fitting the intercom is easy – just plug in the battery and control module, and it’s ready to use.

Available in 2 sizes: XS-LG, XL-3XL. The perfect o $ 8 80 partner for riding r P with and 1 without a visor: The M1 PRO is the right accessory for every hip bike – whether cruiser, tourer, naked or big-wheeler.

Optimised head ventilation intake, new interior design and great comfort make this one of the most useful jet helmets on the market. And it is compatible with seamless Bluetooth communication. Thanks to the innovative head ventilation intake, your head is cooled inside the helmet even on longer trips.

Ventilation channels are integrated in the helmet shell so that particularly high air circulation is achieved. Exceptional ride comfort is the result.

In addition, the helmet has noticeable aerodynamics: directional stability, no uplift and no buffeting – thanks to the shape developed in the wind tunnel.

Available in sizes XS – 3XL.

M

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

7/01/2021 6:58:44 PM

E1

OB89 Schuberth HPV.qxp 17/7/20 5:59 pm Page 1

e n tu v Ad

re $990

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED.

The comfort of a flip-up helmet, the look and feel of a modern adventure helmet, the safety of a Schuberth helmet!

For the modern adventurer who wants everything: top performance in safety, flexibility and protection.

Uncompromisingly flexible for your next adventure.

Discover the world with the Schuberth E1 in your daily life, going off road and on touring trips.

• Even more air to breathe, an adjustable air inlet on the chin section ensures perfect air intake on longer tours as well as when riding off road • Perfectly prepared for any adventure, threeposition peak, seven different visor tints and four tint options for the sun visor • Plug & play, designed for the communication system SC10U Available in sizes XS – 3XL.

Swipe Yellow

C4

P

The C4 Pro omen $1090 W Women ro exclusively created for female motorcyclists – with all the fittings and quality features of the C4 PRO, but optimally designed to fit the more slender shape of the female head. With additional cheek padding, the C4 Pro Women offers a perfectly snug fit and provides optimum protection and comfort.

Compatible with the SC1 Standard and Advanced communication systems as standard. The comfort liner of the C4 Pro Helmet utilizes ShinyTex, a fabric inherently antibacterial, washable and fast-drying.

A seamless liner and integrated spectacle channel ensure maximum comfort.

Available in sizes XS – L.

C4 PRO

C4 PRO

Magnitudo Black

German quality with 5 year guarantee.

Integrated communication.

Voted Best Helmet – 12 years in a row!

SCHUBERTH C4 PRO HELMETS available from...

www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

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7/01/2021 6:58:45 PM

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E SHOEI

Helmets

X

The Shoei X-Spirit III is a professional racing helmet. When going flat out on a MotoGP bike, you do not have any time to worry about issues with your helmet. This was one of the main targets during the development of the X-Spirit III. The helmet should be perfect for racing without compromise. With the extreme ventilation performance and the highly sophisticated aerodynamic system, the X-Spirit III is your perfect from $1 companion it III 04 r i to take p 9 -S the top place on the podium.

NX

premiumhelmets.com.au

Perfected through hours of wind tunnel development, the NXR features a multi-ply Matrix AIM shell with integrated spoiler, dual layer/ multi-density EPS liner, CWR-1/ 9 4 CWR-F visor compatibility, QR-E 7 $ m dual stage baseplates, 3D o fr Max Dry custom R interior system II, E.Q.R.S Emergency Quick Release System. It is intercom compatible and includes a Pinlock EVO visor and insert.

e

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$749

GT

i -A

from $949 I I r

Gl am

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DV from $899 A t

The ultimate allrounder has been updated for today’s rider.

The shell design of the new Shoei GT-Air 2 has evolved but remains true to its aerodynamic and stable roots. Featuring an improved ventilation scheme, the GT-Air II includes the lengthened QSV-2 drop down sun visor which provides 5mm more coverage for instant sun relief. Like its flip-up cousin, the Neotec 2, the GT Air 2 has a micro ratchet chin strap and is designed to integrate with the GT-Air II specific SRL 2 Bluetooth Communication System by Sena for a clean and low-profile installation.

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The Shoei Glamster is the newest offering from Shoei for nostalgic riders everywhere. This full face helmet is an addition to the already popular Shoei Ex-Zero retro helmet and the Shoei J-O open face helmet. The Shoei Glamstar will be bringing you high level comfort and protection, not to mention plenty of vintage style with its classic round, unadorned shell that cuts to the heart of the origins of motorcycle riding.

The strength and functionality which enables riding crosscountry, and the stylishness and comfort which are necessary for a riding on road are united with the Hornet ADV which enables “sporty riding in every road” to be born. There has been improvement in every element without compromise, including the newly developed V-460 visor suitable for adventure riding with the aerodynamic performance and ventilation performance which are necessary to ride on-road.This is the multiplepurpose helmet for sport/ tour and adventure riding.

www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

7/01/2021 6:58:47 PM

M

APRILIA

aprilia.com/au or your local dealer

Fa

c

elmet $299 H e

Fu ll

Thermoplastic high resistant resin shell with anti UV paint and dynamic air regulation system, approved Pinlock-ready scratch resistant visor, internal sun visor and removable nose guard. Micrometic retention system with removable and washable lining in hypoallergenic fabric. ECE homologated.

u

d $3 2 9 a o ltir

Thermoplastic high resistant resin shell. Double Visor with clear external visor & retractable internal sun visor.

Emergency cheek pad removable system. Double D retention system.

ECE homologated.

www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

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7/01/2021 6:58:48 PM

araihelmets.net.au

Hot off the press is the new sport touring helmet, Quantic from Arai. As with every Arai, the Quantic is formed around protection, first and foremost. Manufactured by hand, the outer shell maintains core strength but with a substantial weight reduction. The smooth, round shape is a key Arai signature and primarily designed to ‘glance-off’ and spread impact forces. Using the aerodynamic and protective abilities of Arai’s full-race helmets and all the experience and know-how earned over millions of road kilometres, the new Quantic slips through the air neatly and efficiently, wrapping its wearer in a cocoon of luxury. It offers a fresh choice for riders who want the very best performance from a helmet – in terms of protection, comfort and ease of wear, day-in-day out – with zero compromise. For easy access on and off the Quantic features a 5mm flare around the base, while the VAS MAX vision visor comes with a Pinlock insert ready to use. The premium brushed nylon interior is removable and features Facial Contour System (FCS) and neck roll wire pocket. It also features Emergency Release System (ERS).

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tX p ce

from $69

9.9

The 1980s.

Motorcycles without fairings. An attitude that made you feel different.

Introduction of the Concept-X. In keeping with the simple but aggressive style of the time, this helmet comes from the heart of Arai’s R&D department. Arai engineers want a cool old-school look that suits your style and bikes. But they want modern Arai performance. The rugged simplicity of Concept-X is the product of imagination. The retro style may catch the eye, but it still had to pass stringent tests. As a result, beneath the aggressive look is a strong, lightweight PB e-cLc shell with a smooth, rounded shape, reinforced with Arai’s proprietary peripheral belt to glide over surfaces and bounce off obstacles. The VAS-VC visor system, with its mechanical retro look, further enhances vision performance by lowering the visor pivot point to maximize a smooth top shell. Although it is reminiscent of the past, the Concept-X is a helmet of the present. Ready for a generation of modern riders who demand a new, old style helmet but with the performance and comfort that only an Arai helmet can provide.

5

Q u

.95

Fre e

29

High quality open face helmet available in a variety of colours. Features include ear cups with shock absorbing liner offered in different thickness sizes, to make a more custom fit possible. There is ample room around the ear area for better comfort and plenty of space for a communication device. A unique feature is the real leatherette interior, offering a classic appearance. Made of very supple and soft faux leather offering a luxurious look and feel to the helmet. lassic from Strict quality control and y C $4 a construction using w special fibre layers, crowded with fibres right to the shell surfaces and bonded with special resins formulated by Arai, to disperse impact energy over the widest possible area – the shell’s main job – through strength, structural integrity and impact flexibility. When goggles are used, the strap TBC band keeps the goggle strap $ c ti in place on the back of n a the helmet, preventing it from slipping off.

Chaser-X is the third Arai helmet that makes use of the new VAS (variable Axis System) technology that offers a significant larger and smoother shell area above the SNELL test line greatly improving the important helmet glancingoff performance. The Chaser-X makes use of an also completely new ventilation system derived from the RX-7V, instantly recognizable by the large, single intake duct on top of the helmet. This Top Ventilation System is derived from the RX-7V diffuser system. The replaceable interior is lined with an anti-microbial fabric. The Chaser-X features FCS (Facial Contour System) and a fixed, non-retractable mini cover. The om $699 chinchin r f is also X .95 new, vent r while the se Formula Onedeveloped visor lock system is the same as used on the RX-7V. All Chaser-X helmets come with a standard Max Vision visor with a Pinlock inlay lens separately packed in the box.

Ch a

ARAI

Helmets

Co n

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

7/01/2021 6:58:49 PM

K6

AGV

agvhelmets.com.au

om fr

$69

9

AGV’s brand new addition to their sport helmet range, the K6 combines the best characteristics of AGV’s racing helmets with all the features and comfort of their touring helmets to create a helmet defined by versatility.

Constructed of carbon and aramid fibre, the K6 is extremely light, taking out the honours for the lightest full-face road helmet on the market. Aerodynamically, the K6 provides excellent stability and air penetration in any riding position, with premium interior linings providing exceptional levels of comfort. Long days in the saddle covering many kilometres will highlight just how versatile this new helmet from AGV is. Take on any two wheeled challenge, tackle any riding surface and experience every corner to the max.

AX

9

9–$ 9 5 $

7 99 Lightness, comfort and adaptability reach the highest technological level in the AGV AX9. Its superior modularity allows 4 different configurations, simply by shuffling the redesigned peak and the ultra-panoramic visor. The lightweight construction of the Carbon + Aramid + Glass Fibre shell provides the highest safety standards, while premium interiors are water resistant and extremely comfortable.

Aerodynamics and ventilation reach a new standard thanks to new extractors and the new adjustable chin guard port that can direct internal air flows where the rider need.

K

1

Sp

$269 m fro

or t

m

r from $899 a l u od

The world’s first Sportmodular helmet: the performance of a full-face helmet together with the comfort of a modular. Entirely built in Carbon Fibre (shell and chin), this specific structure achieves the same protection performance of MotoGP’s Pista GP R in an outstandingly light construction, combining the highest levels of comfort and safety.

K1 is the AGV sport helmet for everyday riding challenges. Born from AGV racing technology, ready for every road experience. The aerodynamic shape, racedeveloped front air vents and wind-tunnel-tested spoiler maximize performances and give stability at higher speed. www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

AM0221.indd 47

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E ELDORADO

Helmets

The Eldorado EXR is the lowest profile open face helmet on the market and is approved for use under Australian Helmet standards. During development there was a heavy focus on bringing the best experience, safety and style to the rider.

If you’re a Harley rider, Café racer, Brat, tracker or just a street hooligan, ride with the EXR for the lowest profile fit available.

Available in matte black or gloss white with studs, and sizes XS – XXL.

0

Fu

R

O

n F ac e p

e $109

$ 1 54

E2

The ESD E20 was specifically designed to offer the rider a helmet with all the modern amenities expected in a mid-price helmet for a budget price.

Featuring sweat-wicking interior coupled with inner channels to vent air flow from front to back and keep the riders head cool and comfortable. Approved for use in Australia under ECE approval.

Available in matte black, gloss white or black/red, and sizes XS – XXL.

ace ll F

EX

eldoradohelmets.com or bce.net.au

E3

dventure $19 A 8 0

The ESD E30 was made for every riding occasion with the adventurer in mind. It combines the comfort and protection of a full-face helmet with functionality, light weight and air ventilation features typical of off-road helmets. Approved for use in Australia under ECE-R 22.05 standard this helmet will keep you looking stylish whilst being safe.

Available in matte black, gloss white, or fluro graphic, in sizes XS – XXL.

Helm et lo

k

Ba r $ 2 9 th T . 95 i w

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ROCKY CREEK DESIGNS rockycreekdesigns.com.au

And to finish off this feature, the great folk at Rocky Creek Designs give you the security that will look after your helmet when you’re off the bike… The original Helmetlok, designed in Australia by Rocky Creek Designs back in 2009 is still around and the most popular helmet lock in the world! Also comes with a T Bar which is used for helmets with a quick release buckle. If you want to lock more than one helmet, or a jacket and bag as well, then GearLok is the perfect answer! It has a 1.5m long cable and a 4 digit combination lock and comes with a neoprene bag. D

www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

7/01/2021 6:58:59 PM

NITRO

X5

nitrorider. com.au

U 62

no $109

The Nitro X562 Uno open face motorcycle helmet comes with a removable peak that converts the X562 into a street helmet. The Nitro X562 is ultra-lightweight thanks to an MPT (Multi-Poly Tech) construction, a quick release micrometric retention strap for ease of use, ultra-comfort fit removable lining and dual side exhaust vents. The visor is anti-scratch treated and this comes with additional side pods so the visor can be fitted without the peak for extra versatility.

20 P X6

odium J

nr $

11 One 9 for the kids.You can feel safe knowing the MX620 Podium Jnr comes with the latest ECE 22.05 Standard and MPT (multi poly tech) constructed MX shell for your little one. Wide eye port aids peripheral vision - keep the competition in check. A reinforced chinbar, with integrated mouthguard/dust filter and side air intakes and fully adjustable peak with aluminium mounts offer peace of mind when it comes to safety.

Available in different colours, sizes S – L.

M

Ge

38.95 ok $ l r a

www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

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9/01/2021 1:00:00 AM

TEAROUTMAP#96

GLASS HOUSES

None of them here, only mountains WORDS STUART PHOTOS VARIOUS

HIS ROUTE IS GREAT for turning into a ‘brunch’ stop at somewhere like Dayboro, or an ideal spot is Pitstop on Mt Mee.

T

but Ferny Grove is where you start to feel like you’ve left the city and found your way into the countryside.

BRISBANE

SAMFORD

Brisbane is the biggest city in Queensland, and the third most populous city in Australia. Brisbane’s metropolitan area has a population of over 2.5 million. Brisbane was founded upon the ancient traditional lands of the Jagera people, including the Turrbal group, who named the area Meanjin. Named after the Brisbane River on which it stands -- which in turn takes its name from scotsman Sir Thomas Brisbane, the Governor of New South Wales at the time of the city’s founding -- the area was chosen as a place for secondary offenders from the Sydney Colony.

Try not to tease Brisbanites about the name of their city coming from a governor of NSW of all places.

Brisbane makes a good spot to base yourself, either in the city or surrounding suburbs, as the starting point for this route and many others.

Made up of Samford Village and Samford Valley. A picturesque and hilly area, Samford was first settled in the mid-1850s and is now a place many hobby farmers call home, being

FERNY GROVE

Mostly just a landmark for this route, 50

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GLASSHOUSE MOUNTAINS, QLD

GLASSHOUSE MOUNTAINS, QLD

Starting out of Brisbane jump onto Enoggera Road heading west. This shortly turns into Samson Road which you continue to follow through Ferny Grove to Samford. Turn right at the roundabout, (you’ll see a Caltex service station).

Mount Samson Road takes you all the way to Dayboro.

Take the right curve (or turn) following the “Petrie, Woodford” road sign. Ride about 200m and turn left onto Mount Mee Road and

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enjoy the twisties all the way to the T-intersection (about 36km each way).

This is where you’ll see the magnificent Glasshouse Mountains – if you’ve got time to look that is and not concentrating on where you should be going!

Turn around and head back to your café of choice and relax, watching all the other bikes ride past, or stop just like you. Some interesting machinery can be seen here.

Distance – 121km Fuel – Brisbane, Samford, Dayboro

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one of the closest semi-rural acreage townships to Brisbane.

It’s located close to the city, but feels a world away with its rolling hills, wide, open spaces and country charm.

Samford has managed to maintain a buzz around its café scene, so you’ll find yourself wanting to linger longer for a second coffee before wandering next door to the local produce shop for some of Samford’s freshest food. You’ll be keenly aware of the community vibe in Samford, with real country hospitality around every corner and over every hill.

A number of things to do in Samford are visiting the Farmers Markets which are held every Wednesday from 2-5pm, at Millen Farm, 2204 Mt Samson Road. You can also head to Samford Museum, providing a truly fascinating look at an era that is all but forgotten now, with its collection of objects from the district’s rural, domestic, educational, railway, timber, transport and village past.

DAYBORO

Lovers of arts and culture, Dayboro is the town for you. This quaint village might be small in size but it’s big on character with an array of quirky cafes, antiques, craft and gift shops and historical buildings.

MOUNT MEE

Overlooking the magnificent Glasshouse Mountains, Mount Mee also has expansive and picturesque views of seaside Caloundra and pristine Moreton Bay.

The Mount Mee Forest Reserve contains huge expanses of rainforest and eucalypt forest and includes many picturesque bushwalks and adventure bike tracks. Clear water creeks, lush rainforest canopies and stunning views make the Reserve a perfect place to unwind and get back to nature.

DELANEYS CREEK A landmark for this route.

GLASSHOUSE MOUNTAINS

The Glass House Mountains are a cluster of thirteen hills that rise abruptly from the coastal plain on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia. The highest hill is Mount Beerwah at 556 metres above sea level, but the most identifiable of all the hills is Mount Tibrogargan which from certain angles bears a resemblance to a face staring east towards the ocean.

The Glass House Mountains are located near Beerburrum State Forest and Steve Irwin Way. From Brisbane, the mountains can be reached by following the Bruce Highway north and taking the Glass House Mountains tourist drive turnoff onto Steve Irwin Way. The trip is

about one hour from Brisbane.

The once volcanic peaks of the Glass House Mountains rise dramatically from the surrounding Sunshine Coast landscape. They were formed by intrusive plugs, remnants of volcanic activity that occurred 26-27 million years ago. Molten rock filled small vents or intruded as bodies beneath the surface and solidified into these rocks. Millions of years of erosion have removed the surrounding exteriors of volcanic cores and softer sandstone rock.

While the traditional names for the hills themselves are very old, the term ‘Glasshouse Mountains’ was given more recently by explorer Lieutenant James Cook on 17 May 1770. The peaks reminded him of the glass furnaces – not glasshouses! -- in his home county of Yorkshire. Matthew Flinders explored the area and climbed Mount Beerburrum after sailing along Pumicestone Passage in 1799. D www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

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COMPARO

FEATHERWEIG H

KAWASAKI NINJA 1000 SX

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G HT TOURING

X

V SUZUKI GSX-S1000F WORDS STUART PHOTOS VARIOUS

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C O M PA R O

T

HE WORLD OF SPORT touring motorcycles has seen substantial growth, with many riders (and manufacturers) shying away from the big, full-house touring bikes and opting for the lighter, yet still touring capable, sport touring segment. Two rippers in this class are the Kawasaki Ninja 1000 SX and Suzuki GSX-S1000F, so we decided to pitch them against each other and see what we thought.

DNA

The Ninja 1000 SX is an ‘extension’ of the popular Z1000 naked sharing much of its DNA, whereas the GSXS1000F shares much of its DNA with the GSX-R1000 of a few years ago. Despite their genetic makeup coming from different types of bikes, 54

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you can still expect awesome amounts of power and great torque – perfect for both touring and blasting when you get to the twisties.

AH, THAT’S NICE

The comfort level of both bikes is great, but the Kawasaki does have a few more creature comforts than the Suzuki.

The Ninja 1000 SX has a new wider and comfier seat over the marque’s previous version and all-day touring is delightful. The reach to the handlebars is just weighted on the wrists and the seat to peg height is a great in-between of sport and touring. The seat height of 835mm, on the other hand, might rule out some of you with shorter legs.

A new, reshaped four-position

adjustable screen is fitted and hand adjusted just like the previous one.

For my height I found the lower three settings worked great, whereas the highest setting buffeted my helmet a little.

To work in with the new screen the fairing has also been revised.

More engine heat is directed away from the rider than before, which is welcome. The new fairing does make the Ninja 1000 SX look similar to its racing brother, the ZX-10R and with all-LED lighting you get a premium feel about the Ninja.

Pillion seating is supportive and with good sized grab rails your pillion in a million will like the Ninja.

Strapping luggage to the seat I found a little tricky. To get a seat bag fitting right was difficult thanks to the hump

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in the front of the seat. You can get accessory panniers and topbox, colour matched to the bike.

Comfort of the GSX-S100F is excellent and I could ride all day, easily. The upright and nicely spaced ‘Renthal Fatbar’ handlebar gives a relaxing ride and loads of leverage.

The pegs are set sporty, but I found them very well placed for comfort as well. The 810mm seat height is also good, opening this bike up to just about any sized riders. I reckon if you do big 1000km days this is a bike to make them roll down faster. Pillion comfort is also decent.

The pillion pad is not overly large, but what is there does the job nicely.

Strapping on some throwover panniers or a seat bag is easy and they can be tied to the pillion peg brackets. Of course, you could get a rack and topbox if you wanted to.

Protection from the fairing is good, despite its aggressive/sporty appearance – the screen is not adjustable, though. If you wanted more frontal protection you could look at the accessory higher screen.

Leg protection from the sculpted side parts of the fairing directs wind well away and to an extent even copes with light rain. The sides of the fairing look almost like a kind of winglet.

King of the ergonomics goes to the

Kawasaki – the seat is a bit comfier and the creature comforts like the adjustable screen and a tiny bit more legroom make all the difference.

ELBOW DOWN?

Handling is where these two bikes really will surprise you. Expect sportsbike-like performance with better behaviour.

Changes to steering geometry and the fitment of a sportier tyre – the Bridgestone S22 on the Kawasaki, along with revised suspension settings by way of new damping pistons to help smooth out the ride, make the Ninja 1000 SX possibly the best handling current model from Team www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

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C O M PA R O Green. Gone is that slightly lax feeling you might have had with the previous version, now you have a very sharp and predictable ride at all times.

At the rear, the suspension has been “fine-tuned”; the shock itself is the same as before. Maybe they had a fiddle with the preload and/ or rebound damping adjusters or changed the spring. There’s also a remote preload adjuster.

KYB suspension is fitted front and rear on the Suzuki and is full adjustable. The front is balanced and bang on for street riding.

The rear could do with a turn or so of preload, especially if you’re carrying a pillion and/or luggage. Turn in is light and nimble in change of direction, and handling neither rough or smooth corners will push the bike offline. Compared to the Ninja, the GSX-S1000F is just that bit sweeter and easier to ride. This could also be because the Suzuki is 20kg or so lighter.

GIDDY UP

Performance is strong and exciting and for me, there’s something about the smoothness of an inline-four that makes it special versus other engine layouts.

Many inline-fours need to be revved to release their potential.

Not so the Ninja 1000 with its fat, flat torque curve, loads of midrange, and close ratios giving any-gear, any-rev, any-speed flexibility. Add in the new up and down quickshifter and this is a sport and touring delight.

On open roads you can sit in third, fourth, fifth or sixth gear and it all feels equally natural.

In top, you can drop as low as 40km/h and the bike still pulls away cleanly. If you want to feel the Ninja’s sporty side, it’ll scream on to 11,000rpm and give you all the thrills you’re looking for.

Technical changes are tiny.

Camshaft profiles have been modified to reduce the engine’s mechanical noise. Intake funnels have been altered too, with shorter trumpets for the outer pair of cylinders – Kawasaki 56

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say this suits the new 4-into-2-into-1 exhaust and reduces emissions.

As before there are two power modes: Full, which does what it says; and Low, which has a milder response and limits output to 75%.

These are now paired with one of the traction control’s three settings in the four intuitive riding modes: Sport, Road, Rain and a customisable Rider setting where you can turn traction control off.

The strong, four-stroke, liquidcooled, DOHC, 999cc, inline-four engine fitted to the Suzuki is designed to provide smooth throttle response and controlled acceleration. I found the throttle a little direct, but you can easily ride around that.

Many people will say the inline four is the 2005 GSX-R1000 engine. Sure, it’s a little similar but Suzuki tells us the two engines are totally different apart from using a long stroke crank.

This helps produce an abundance of very useable low-mid range torque

and really does help to justify the term “sports” in the moniker.

Technical features of the super sweet engine include ventilation holes between the cylinders which reduce pumping loss within the crankcase so the engine can deliver more power and torque. The profiles of the dual overhead camshafts were designed to enhance street performance while preserving peak racetrack-capable power in the top end.

Aluminium pistons are cast with optimal rigidity and weight and slide smoothly in the Suzuki Composite Electrochemical Material (SCEM) plated cylinder bores integrated into the upper crankcase to reduce friction and improve heat transfer and durability.

Long tip, 10-hole fuel injectors on each 44mm throttle body optimise fuel atomization while the automatic Idle Speed Control (ISC) improves cold starting and

stabilizes the engine idle.

The stainless steel 4-2-1 exhaust system helps the engine deliver a strong low-to mid-range punch with an exciting rush to redline and produces a really nice bass tone.

Many of you will not see the need for an aftermarket pipe.

Suzuki’s Advanced Traction Control System lets have more control. There are four traction control modes (1, 2, 3, and OFF) that you can easily adjust at rest or on the fly via a handlebar-mounted control.

• Mode 1 is the lowest sensitivity level, most suitable for skilled riders or in conditions that have good road surface grip (sport riding on good, smooth roads).

• Mode 2 is a moderate sensitivity level, suitable for most riders or in conditions that have varied road surface grip (city riding, regular road conditions). www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

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C O M PA R O • Mode 3 is the highest sensitivity level, suitable for road conditions where the grip may be limited (wet or cold surfaces).

• OFF disengages all traction control features.

Mated to the silky four is a race-proven six-speed close-ratio transmission featuring vertically staggered shafts to reduce overall engine length, and an assist and slipper clutch which increases plate pressure under acceleration, yet acts as a slipper clutch to smoothe the engine response during engine braking and corner entry – great when you’re punting hard. Clutch action and shifting are direct and smooth.

Picking which engine is better out of these two is quite difficult as they’re both awesome, but for just a bit more smoothness, the Suzuki wins out.

Plus, if you love torque, the Suzuki has shed loads more than the Kawasaki.

WHOA BOY

A pair of powerful four-piston Tokico calipers are fitted up front on the Kawasaki. There’s plenty of feel and if it all goes wrong Kawasaki’s clever cornering ABS system adjusts its behaviour to help keep you on your intended line.

Brembo front calipers and Nissin rear work perfectly at stopping the Suzuki. ABS is there and works well if it all goes wrong.

I found they both stop very similar with feel and power you’ll smile at every time you squeeze the lever, but in terms of tech, the Kawasaki and its cornering ABS is the safer option.

CHECK ME OUT

“Fat” and, “bulbous” are a couple of words I’ve heard when people have described both of these bikes, but compare their look to a touring motorcycle and you’ll now be saying, “skinny” and, “slim”. It’s all ‘fit for purpose’ and while having a sporty edge, the main focus in the styling department is to have functionality as a motorcycle that offers protection from the elements.

MOOLAH

Pricing is very close with the Kawasaki $709 ($16,999) more expensive than the Suzuki ($16,290).

This is an insignificant price difference when you factor in the 58

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Spectacular South Africa

Himalayan Heights

Dalmatian Delights Moroccan Magic

Beautiful Baltics

Yaks ‘n’ Yetis

Awesome Andes

Incredible Iceland

It's hard to believe, but this iconic image is now more than 20 years old.

It's a bit grainy; we took it on our first Andes tour, waaay back in the late 90's.

Many others have followed.

But none has bettered.

World On Wheels.

Leading the way for 27 years.

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C O M PA R O

Specs

Specs

KAWASAKI NINJA 1000 SX

SUZUKI GSX-S1000F

PRICE: $16,999 (ride away)

PRICE: $16,290 (ride away)

WARRANTY: Two years, unlimited distance

WARRANTY: Two years, unlimited distance

SERVICING INTERVALS: Every 12,000km or 12 months

SERVICING INTERVALS: Every 12,000km or 12 months

ENGINE: 1043cc liquid-cooled in-line four cylinder, 77x56mm bore/stroke, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder

ENGINE: 999cc liquid-cooled in-line four cylinder, 73.4x59mm bore/stroke, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder

POWER: 104.5kW @ 10,000rpm

POWER: 107.7kW @ 10,000rpm

TORQUE: 111Nm @ 8000rpm

TORQUE: 146.6Nm @ 9500rpm

TRANSMISSION: 6-speed, wet multi-plate assist/ slipper clutch, chain final drive

TRANSMISSION: 6-speed, wet multi-plate assist/ slipper clutch, chain final drive

SUSPENSION: Front, 41mm inverted fork, adjustable preload, compression and rebound, travel 120mm. Rear, monoshock, adjustable preload and rebound, travel 144mm.

SUSPENSION: Front, 43mm inverted fork, adjustable preload, compression and rebound, travel 120mm. Rear, monoshock, adjustable preload and rebound, travel 120mm.

DIMENSIONS: Seat height 835mm, weight 235kg (wet), fuel capacity 19 litres, wheelbase 1440mm

DIMENSIONS: Seat height 810mm, weight 214kg (wet), fuel capacity 17 litres, wheelbase 1460mm

TYRES: Front, 120/70/ZR17. Rear, 190/50/ZR17

TYRES: Front, 120/70/ZR17. Rear, 190/50/ZR17

BRAKES: Front, twin 300mm discs with radial four-piston cornering ABS calipers.

Rear, 250mm disc, single-piston ABS caliper.

BRAKES: Front, twin 310mm discs with radial four-piston ABS calipers.

Rear, 220mm disc, single-piston ABS caliper.

FUEL CONSUMPTION: 6.08 litres per 100km, premium unleaded

FUEL CONSUMPTION: 6.51 litres per 100km, premium unleaded

THEORETICAL RANGE: 312km

THEORETICAL RANGE: 261km

COLOURS: Black, Green (SE)

COLOURS: Black

VERDICT: Feature packed

VERDICT: Sharp scalpel

added features the Kawasaki has over the Suzuki.

FLIP A COIN?

Decisions, decisions…the Kawasaki Ninja 1000 SX and Suzuki GSX60

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S1000F are so closely matched, making the decision which is better than the other really will come down to personal preference. You might as well flip a coin to help you make that decision, but in my mind having

ridden both extensively over the last couple of years I have to say the Kawasaki would take my money – it just has that classier feel and the few more inclusions make it better bang for your buck. D

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R E S T O R A T I O N Part 14

T

HE Z900 RESTO HAS been a little quiet of late. I think it’s been five issues since you had an update. The big excitement this month is that I’ve had the paintwork done.

However, first of all I’ve been doing other bits and pieces since the last update – mostly wiring, bleeding the front brake, fitting up the clutch cable, fitting the ‘tool tray’, new battery and a few other small odds and ends like the warning decals under the seat and fitting new/original ‘Stanley’ indicator lenses to get the Z900 to a stage where it now only needs a few more wires connected and is ready to fire into life!

Back to the paintwork! I employed the services of Mark who owns Sydney Custom Spraypainting to do the show quality paint. I met Mark a number of years ago through the boys at D Moto Motorcycle Engineering; he does all their customers paint repairs. Mark’s work is of the highest quality and while he’s not cheap, you can guarantee the work you receive can win a show.

Getting the paintwork done was the last ‘big ticket’ item for the Z900 and I was super excited to get it finally done.

The original colour for this A4 model is called Diamond Green. It is said to be a candy colour and getting hold of an original colour chip to match, is near impossible. Lucky for me, Mark has the modern-day equivalent colour chips and while I have no idea of the name of the colour we chose, it is the only Kawasaki colour of this shade of green, which Mark said is the modern-day representation of the original.

It is a shade of green that looks dark green in the shade; semi dark green in a brighter light situation and in full sun, the ‘candy’ or metallic pops your eyeballs out of their sockets! Just as Diamond Green did back in the day.

Mark also laid down the 3M stripes.

This is another catch for anyone wanting to buy cheaper pinstriping for any paintwork, putting clear over the top of cheap pinstripes can cause a nightmare, so never skimp on the highest quality, such as 3M. It will cost near twice as much, but the result is worth it.

What’s next? Over the Xmas break I hope to fire this beauty into life, fit the fuel tank cap, new tank badges and hopefully give it a whirl around the block. This is the most exciting time of a restoration as you know it’s so close to being finished. D

1976 KAWASAKI Z900 A4 t h e d a y

y b r e s o l C

WORDS/PHOTOS STUART

Sydney Custom Spraypainting 6 Cann Street, Guildford NSW Mark Ph: 9721 2244

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TRAVEL

AWESOME DESTINATIONS #5

o c c o r o M

WORDS CHRIS HONE IMAGES MOTORRAD TOURS

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T R AV E L

W

HEN 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.

AMM Morocco, and more specifically the Atlas mountain range is perhaps best described as the most in-reach hard-to-reach destination. It is Africa, it is an Islamic country, the official language is Berber; the dress is different, the culture is different, the style is different and, most of all, the standards are different. Alcoholic drinks are not the norm; some hotels are dry. There are incredible riding roads, both dirt and asphalt, with scenery ranging from green lush 64

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forests in the north, to the western edge of the Sahara and the red dirt Morocco is famed for.

The roads

Stunning riding roads might not be what first springs to mind when you think of Morocco – the place famed for red dirt tracks and sandy playgrounds - but it is absolutely possible to do a sealed road tour of Morocco. You aren’t going to find billiard-table-smooth asphalt but you will find some of the most incredible mountain passes you could ever wish to ride. In the Atlas Mountains you’ll find the Tiz n’Test and Tiz n’Tichka passes, carving and winding their way to over 2,000 metres above sea level.

Don’t miss either of them! The Dades Gorge, home to an iconic hairpin climb and The neighbouring Todra Gorges overlooked by sheer red rock walls stretching skywards are both on the must see list. If you’re happy to take on some gravel, then there’s an

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T R AV E L

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enjoyable, technical unsealed stretch of road between them.

The weather

With both the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert at hand, you can see both ends of the temperature scale in Morocco, down to freezing in the winter time and up to the forties in the summer months. To get the best out of the climate, head there in Autumn (September/October) or Spring (April/May). If you’re planning to enjoy the Atlas Mountains (and you should) make sure you pack for some cooler weather and occasional rain.

The best places to visit

Morocco will spoil you with an intensely different cultural experience, especially if you visit the Imperial Cities. Rabat the current capital is not really on the tourist trail, so the souks (markets) of the Medina cater more for locals than visitors, which is the best way to get a true feel for

Morocco and its culture. Marrakech is a must with the chaotic night life of the main square, Jemma el Fna, packed with snake charmers, street food vendors and spice stalls.

Another of our favourite haunts is the UNESCO-listed ancient ksar of Ait Ben Haddou. This historic citadel has formed the backdrop for numerous films, including The Living Daylights, The Mummy, Gladiator and Jesus of Nazareth. There’s a Riad to stay in (local traditional accommodation, we’ll come to that in a minute) that overlooks the Ksar, providing an excellent base from which to lose a few hours wandering the alleyways and small streets. And to balance culture with a bit of childish fun, book onto a quad bike trek up into the sand dunes from Essaouira – great fun and an easier way to explore the dunes if you’re not a proficient sand rider.

The bits to avoid

The biggest thing to remember in www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

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T R AV E L Morocco is to have a little cultural sensitivity. Modesty is required in dress, so best to refrain from pulling your shirt off after a hot day’s riding and sitting drinking a beer in the town centre. Some people in Morocco don’t like having their photo taken and courtesy is considered very important; learn please (afak) and thankyou (shukran) and seek permission before pulling out the camera.

The food

The traditional Moroccan drink, jovially dubbed Berber Whisky, is mint tea, flavored with spices and sweetened with sugar. Moroccan food to try includes Lamb Tagine, Berber salad and Berber omelet. Our favourite is always to find somewhere serving street food kebabs cooked on an open fire; basic cuts of lamb and chicken, spitting fat, catching fire and the tastiest thing you’ll find.

Our favourite bit

Morocco is a fabulous country to ride

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a bike in, and different culture and feel of the country make it into a proper adventure. To experience this at its fullest, be sure to avoid all the chain hotels and seek accommodation in the beautiful, authentic Moroccan Riads.

Whether in the heart of the Medinas of Marrakech, Rabat, Essaouria and Fes, or in remote locations in unspoiled traditional villages, the Riads are the best places to stay to enjoy the real flavor of Morocco.

The Riads can be challenging to find even with a GPS and a map and it is often easiest to pay a local taxi/moped rider and follow them.

The riding here is some of the best in the world, but the biggest impression this place leaves on us each time we visit is just how different it is.

The culture, the people and the whole vibe of Morocco make you feel totally out of place, yet thoroughly welcome.

With fantastic riding on both sealed and unsealed roads, Morocco really is the most accessible ‘far away’ and alien destination you can visit on a bike.

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n u r e i d Nu

CUSTOM

Everyone loves a bit of Ram Air! WORDS/PHOTOS PICKO

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T

HE OWNER OF THIS bike, known as Webby, reckons motorcycle customisers should have careers as interior designers, because some of the beautiful customs being built these days could be considered fine art. He goes on to say every home should have an old motorcycle in the lounge room, whether it be to simply enjoy the plain beauty of it, or to provoke old memories. Works for us.

Webby wanted that masterpiece in his lounge room but instead of going for something standard he went for something modified. Like, highly modified. Any resto or custom build takes time, brain power and lots of research but if you have a scratch that needs itching, then just do it. That’s what Webby did. Luckily he had a few friends to call on, friends like John, who together with Webby created this special two stroke Suzuki.

Beginnings

Webby actually bought the number plate for this bike before he had the bike. Nudy-1 was the plate, bought on a whim. Webby started to look at naked bike images to see what he wanted and for some inspiration.

This wasn’t Webby’s first rodeo, he’d built a few race replicas before, with John by his side. With this build John constantly challenged Webby with the style of the bike, as he was riding these

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CUSTOM

“THE RAM-AIR TOP END IS A SIGNATURE Gone baby LOOK AND THE FRAME So, what to get rid of ? Front and IS OLD SCHOOL rear wheels: check.

AND TOUGH Oil reservoirs, original electronics LOOKING.”

bikes when they were new, while Webby is a sprightly 47 so the GT550 was a bit before his time.

But the ideas bounced between the two until a consensus formed and the search for a suitable platform began.

After seeing a few examples Webby decided upon the GT550, as he loved the wide motor. The Ram-Air top end is a signature look and the frame is old school and tough looking. It needed to look radical but recognisable, so the original frame was kept but any needless tabs and brackets were removed. The motor was clearly staying, as was the tank and the swing arm so the original ‘look’ of the bike wasn’t lost.

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and most of the wiring loom: check. Let’s get rid of those forks and rear shocks, original clocks etc. The list went on.

Before taking what was left to master builder John, Webby created a new oil reservoir tank from sheet alloy and TIG welded it with the centre set aside so that John could work his magic and fit the battery and electronics in there, well out of sight.

Cut, shut and rebuilt

Webby’s mate Todd Pickering from Gel-Tek Quality Composites made some serious cut-n-shut mods to

a Ducati 900SS tailpiece, including splitting it down the middle and adding some width to it to suit the GT’s frame. A ridge over the top was made to match the top of the tank and he added two scalloped shaped inserts to each side, and he was able to mould in a rear taillight set up, originally an aftermarket design for a trail bike.

The engine came out and was stripped completely from top to bottom, totally rebuilt. Even though the engine was a runner when first bought it still needed a few parts replacing. All this was done by Martin Norman, a permanently migrated Englishman who just happens to be a bit of a two-stroke expert.

He also sorted the new bearings so they would fit the Suzuki GSX-R1000 upside down forks. Webby ran the original GSX-R brakes and wheel

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too, and why wouldn’t you? He also bought a pair of Ohlins shocks, gold to match the forks.

After the seat was modified it was taken to Dantrim Upholstery for Webby’s mate Keeny to weave his magic. Keeny has been involved in a few of Webby’s madcap builds so the quality of work was known and never in doubt.

From there it was the little things that top off a special build like this, like the LED blinkers and twin headlight set up (from a Buell) which John approved of. A quality speedo

and tacho were procured as well.

Webby designed the dash on a CAD program and had it cut out, but John then ditched it in favour of his own.

His did work better apparently…

As the build delved further in the harder stuff, the team found the swingarm wasn’t big enough to hold the GSX-R rear wheel, so a wheel from a Suzuki SV650 went in, smaller than the GSX-R unit but still bigger then the original and way smarter to look at. Can you imagine having the GSX-R wheel on the front and an original GT wheel on the rear?

Bonjour Provence

HIGHLIGHTS Riding Provence, Gorge du Verdon, Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, Carcassonne, Luberon villages, Vercors, Pont du Gard, Millau Viaduct, Grasse TOUR DATE 2021 MAY 29 - JUN 13

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adriaticmototours.com

COUNTRY France

DURATION 16 days / 14 riding days

ROUTE LENGTH 2.000 - 2800 km (1.200 - 1.700 miles)

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CUSTOM Neither can we.

The rear brake set up and sprocket carrier are off a 1985 GSX-R 750, while the original GT foot pegs, gear level and brake lever were kept. A “A JEMCO big thanks to Mick Hone Motorcycles 3-INTO-1 WAS in Melbourne for BOUGHT FROM THE stocking parts for these old dinosaurs.

USA AND LOOKS THE With the pile of GOODS, PLUS GIVES parts about 95 per cent there, Webby AN INCREDIBLE needed an exhaust.

NOTE.” The original 3-into-4 looked good but not good enough for this build. A Jemco 3-into-1 was bought from the USA and looks the goods, plus giving an incredible note. Webby’s bike when he bought it had some old crappy 3-into1 on it anyway so he didn’t feel to sorry not going with an original system.

The problems kept popping up too, like how to fit a wheel twice the size of the original into the swing arm.

Hours of machining went into getting it all to line up and work. The sprocket carrier needed 10mm machined off, the axle was shortened and rethreaded with spacers for the rear caliper to fit and so it went on, and on, and on…

But that’s where John shines, he gets it done with a minimum of fuss, safe, practical and aesthetically pleasing.

Home run

Slowly but surely the bike came together and each time Webby arrived at John’s place the bike looked better and more complete. John basically threw away the original wiring loom and started again. He relocated many of the essential bits under the seat.

The original choke lever had a 3-into1 cable which looked like it was off some old lawn mower. A quick visit to Bendigo Yamaha got Webby a lever mount with a decompression lever which – when connected to the choke cables – looked factory.

With the bike all dry fitted and with the headlight mounted dash also in position, John came up with the idea of giving Webby the task of getting a template made from cardboard to mould over the lights to meet the top of the instrument panel. With the template done, 74

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provided engine and transmission, the R 50 donated the frame and running gear) turned out to be useful but never really ideal;got forthe a start Ural up sidecar Webby thingthe drawn on wasthetoo heavy.

I didn’t build the perfect computer and metal was cut and outfi t until matched a Yamaha Bolt to rolled byIPeter Buckell of Golden City Sheet oil tank a replica SteibMetal. chair. He Still,did thethe Beemer toot covered and it was a great job. and was outfi a lot of miles theI main chassis done a lotWith of fun. don’t bike seemand to be able to it was time to fisoreyou’ll it up.have According find any photos, to settle smell was sublime. But forthe oneWebby of thethe Bolt.

it was also time to give the emperor some new clothes.

John had grafted RALPH - KTM SUPERDUKE / on a late model filler cap from one BMW R 1200 GS of his son Mark’s modern race bikes.

Split TheDecision main colour was to be black, muted and classic. And it contrasted I owned boththein gold the late 2000s andA touch well with suspension. these bikes meant different thingsand forthe of matt was needed though, front guard got the treatment.

Slick and sexy

The final touch was when John walked over to his wall to retrieve an oval race number decal, taken off a classic Ducati racer. He stuck it on the alloy oil tank for that finishing touch. Webby being a sign writer was then dispatched at 11pm by John to make new decals and to return pronto to fit them in the early hours of the morning!

This wasn’t a quick build, there were many hours of hard work put in by a number of people. It was all worth it though, according to Webby, when he and John wheeled the bike off the ramp and could see it in its new form, properly. The bulk of the original bike had gone, replaced with a sleeker and meaner new GT. Webby has since ridden the wheels off this bike, and it has repaid him with kilometres of enjoyment and hours of visual stimulation, exactly what he was looking for in the beginning.

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Owner profile WEBBY, 47, VICTORIA HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN INTO BIKES? me and my30riding.

Both bikes I bought Over years.

without test riding, and placed an order WHAT OTHER BIKES prior to their arriving in Australia. It’s HAVE YOU OWNED? proof that marketing hype works! Both Plenty, heaps of dirt bikes, represented freedom in every sense -Ducati 1098, Mike Hailwood performance or travel, wheelstanding or Replica, GSX-R750, ZXR 750 chugging through the countryside. Both and so on. were instrumental in consolidating their brands in their respective markets.

WHAT OTHER BIKES WOULD YOU LIKE TO OWN? Plenty of them too, I’m not sure what my next build will be but it will be very special.

The 2010s

STUART – BMW R 1200 GS WHAT INTERESTS DO Water-Cooled Magic

YOU HAVE OTHER THAN MOTORCYCLING? Let it be known, BMW have pretty Family and muscle cars. D

much always held amazing new bike launches and the introduction of the

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LONGTERMERS

OH, THE JOYS!

Mr Cranky - Suzuki GSX1100

O

NE SUNNY MORNING (as the story goes) I decided to take Mr Cranky out for a whirl to Wisemans Ferry and back.

About three-quarters of the way there, as I accelerated out of a left hander the engine dropped to three cylinders and poof! There was white smoke everywhere. No, it wasn’t a magic trick, or some wish of mine had come true with a Genie popping out in mid-air to tell me I was a billionaire, sadly something had gone wrong inside the engine.

I was able to gently limp Mr Cranky back home with about two litres of oil having spewed out – mostly on the rear tyre, making things, ‘interesting’ to say the least.

After a wash and some tyre treatment to save the rear tyre the engine was quickly ripped out and the head taken off to reveal a blown head gasket into the cam chain tunnel. Now, not only was it blown on number three cylinder, but also number one. It appeared to have been burning ‘through’ for some time.

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I took all the parts to Shaun at D Moto and he instantly spotted the head gasket was too big. An 84mm gasket for a 78mm bore was the first problem. Second was that the head surface was trashed, as was the top of the barrel.

So, decision time…strip the entire thing and start again, or throw it back together with some new gaskets.

Of course, starting again was the only answer as there were some other things revealed from how the engine was built, or, poorly built I should say.

As I type this, the bottom end is back together, the barrel has been honed and skimmed, the head has been serviced and skimmed, new rings have arrived, as have the new gaskets from Suzuki Performance Spares in the UK and the other gaskets I ordered through Mick Hone Motorcycles. I also ordered a crankcase breather – these big bore air-cooled beasts breathe extremely heavy and need some relief.

The Wiseco pistons are the higher compression of the two types

1

available. 13.5:1 is too much for a street engine, so Shaun is going to use some of his magic and machine the top of the pistons into a shape he prefers for better combustion burning and to lower the compression slightly. A rough guess to what it will be is around 11.5:1 which is fine to run on pump gas.

While the engine is out I’ve also given it all a lick of paint to bring it up to my standards. Once I have the pistons machined we can throw it all together, set the valve clearances and timing and then I’ll go through the CR smoothbore carbs to make sure they’re set properly before chucking the engine back in and firing it back into life.

Shaun is pretty confident the engine will pick up a ton of power and torque, as if it didn’t have enough already! Yeehar!

The joys of owning a bike with a race engine on the road…at least I know it will be reliable and built properly now.

SW

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2

1. Check out the oil soaked rear tyre!

2. Yep, she’s gone 3. That’s more to my standard!

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29 August - 18 Seotember 2021

Adventure rides and tours around the globe

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PUBOFTHEMONTH

l l a c l l o R

21 FOR ‘21 WORDS/PHOTOS COLIN WHELAN

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So, I ran an idea past Stu about giving you twenty-one pubs for 2021. He was wrapped with the idea, so here they are…

A selection of 21 pubs for ’21. All rated at least 4 helmets and all with unique character.

Covid restrictions have hit them all - the early year bushfires hit many before that.You won’t just be helping them by rocking up, you’ll also be enriching your ride through this country.

Oh, and don’t bitch about them all being in eastern mainland, Covid shackled me too!

Enjoy!

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PUB OF THE MONTH

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Railway Hotel, Baan Baa, NSW

Just on 40kms south of Narrabri this family-owned pub, run by Tracey, is refuged away from the Kamilaroi Hwy and across the railway. Open 7 days with all meals its donga rooms are mostly booked out during the week

by Whitehaven workers so ring ahead if you want to stay over. Good fires and the only gambling “is on the gecko catching that bloody fly.” Fun place with great mingling between workers, staff, locals and blow-ins like us.

23 Baranbah St, Baan Baa, NSW T: 02 6794 4714 FB: Railway Hotel Baan Baa

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Barmah Hotel, Barmah, VIC

Open 7 days over summer but with no accommodation. Worth a drink for no other reason than you can brag (and win a bet or two) you’ve been to the only Victorian Pub on the north bank of the Murray River. Bookings essential for meals. And get a taste of Stewarts Bridge Road if you’re not afraid of a bit of friendly gravel.

Maloney St, Barmah, VIC T: 03 5869 3270 Owners: Matt and Mel FB: Barmah Hotel

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Bethanga Hotel, Bethanga, VIC

If you try acting the goat here, you’re going to be outdone. Garry had a dream that a petting zoo could be a fun mix. So he took a failing pub, fenced off the rear area, brought in ponies, rabbits, chooks alpacas and of course goats all of which roam around the place. In a word: sensational! You’ll have more comebacks to this place than Nellie Melba (who grew up just up the road.)

2 Bethanga Road, Bethanga, VIC T: 02 6026 4214 ask for Garry

Bellbird Hotel Motel, Bellbird, VIC

You want to help a bloke who owns eight bikes, runs a pub which has three bikes (a Buell Firebolt and 2 Yammie Café Racers) in the bar and which only just survived the fires in January and then got smashed by the pandemic?

Head to the haven which is the Bellbird Hotel on the Princes Hwy between Cann River and Orbost. Garry hopes to have the place back open by New Years Eve and it’ll be very much aimed at riders.

Twenty-two beds spread over 6 rooms, food on whenever you’re hungry and kick back with a host whose company you’ll enjoy. The phone is a dodgy sat phone but ring in advance to check he’s up and running and still has a bed.

3872 Princes Hwy, Bellbird, VIC T: 03 5158 1239 ask for Garry 80

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PUB OF THE MONTH

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Bruthen Inn Hotel, VIC

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Gol Gol Hotel, Gol Gol, NSW

Stunning joint looking both Park down the eastern side, stroll from the outside in, and over to the back deck and enjoy the inside out. Resembles a citadel or fort more than the beer garden which stretches a pub and the huge covered maybe 150 metres down to the beer garden overlooks the Murray. Just maybe the most relaxing outdoor watering hole on the entire surrounding valleys. river. And who’s not going to enjoy Open 7 days with lunch and dinner, 7 accommodation rooms starting at $45 the mural featuring bike riders per head twin share. Limited undercover from a bit short of 100 years ago?

Accommodation is pretty bland parking. I’ve not been past this place motel style. This is a place for without some bikes parked up. a brilliant refresh.

84 Main St, Bruthen, VIC T: 03 5157 5201 Owner: Stretch FB: Bruthen Inn Hotel

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Courthouse Hotel, Corryong, VIC

After a day of riding the Alps, this is a top spot to brag about your lean angles. Relax back in the front bar of this place with very friendly staff and locals and some damn good food. Just don’t mention your scepticism about the town’s claims to Jack Riley and his connection to the Man from Snowy River (most of the locals also think it’s rubbish but it brings the tourists!)

Sturt Hwy, Gol Gol, NSW T: 03 5157 5201 FB: Gol Gol Hotel

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The Edward River Hotel, Deniliquin, NSW

Riding make you hungry? Get to this place at the north end of town and take the Godfather Challenge. A burger constructed around a 1 kg meat patty and a 9 inch cob bun. Finish it (including the sides of onion rings and chips) and you’ll get a couple of free drinks and a discount on the meal. Beat the record and Chris (the Don), will give you a crisp pineapple.

But you need to book ahead!

Northern end of Davidson St, Deniliquin, NSW T: 03 5881 2065 FB: Edward River Hotel Deniliquin

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27 Hanson St, Corryong, VIC T: 02 6076 1711 FB: Corryong Courthouse Hotel Official www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

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PUB OF THE MONTH

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Bridge Hotel, Jingellic, NSW

Can’t think of a pub with a better river swimming hole out the back than this one, except perhaps Mitta Mitta. Immerse in the Murray at the end of the day or soak up before mounting in the morning. Free camping out front of the pub right beside the river or in one of the two self-contained cabins or cottage.

Try your skill and sticking a note to the ceiling – a coupla grand is harvested each year for the Walwa Medical Centre. Open and with meals 7 days from 11.00. Watch out for the locals on mowers!

3149 River Rd, Jingellic, NSW T: 02 6037 1290 FB:The Jingellic Pub

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Jundah Hotel, Jundah, QLD

Owen, the owner explains something that immediately hits me: “This is a Council Town – offices are just across the road. It’s not a tourist town, it’s a locals’ town and the first rule of business is you look after your locals”. And that’s why the beers here are a couple of bucks cheaper than the surrounding specs on the map. Doesn’t explain why the sangers and burgers are so damn 84

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good, or why there’s free camping out the back for pub patrons.

Genuine, non-exploitative.

A damn fine bush pub. But: the servo down the street makes its own pies and if you only filled your bike here, you’d be missing out.

Dickson St, Jundah, QLD T: 07 4658 6166 FB: Jundah Hotel Motel

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Mates Royal Hotel, Koondrook, VIC

Feeling stuffed after a hard day’s riding the Murray Valley Highway?

Get your sore arse into this place.

A few years back, on a whim, Suzy, who runs the place with “Slippery” bought Hamish, a taxidermied caribou stag and a love affair/ fixation (let’s keep ‘fetish’ out of this) with stuffed animals was born. This vegan’s nightmare seems more hunting lodge than hotel and its free-form bars of polished local redwood make it truly memorable.

No accommodation but totally worth a visit. And no, you won’t be the first to ask if anyone’d mind if you were mounted in the bar.

85 Main St, Koondrock, VIC T: 03 54532406 FB: Mates Royal Hotel Koondrook

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Kyalite Pub, Kyalite, NSW

Amongst the first things Ken and Vic did when they bought the place a bit over 30 years ago was stop riders doing burnouts in the bar. Not that they didn’t warmly greet riders, was just they were worried about the wooden floors going up in flames, Ken passed away early in 2020 and Victorine found Joel and Jodie, a couple from up in Balranald who were (and are) fully committed to the well-being of this pub.

And it isn’t a hotel – it’s one of the few places officially a ‘pub’. There’s no room accommodation but a large camping area with cabins and sites out the back.

It seems to be a magnet for the elegantly feral, the classy mullet class and every time I’ve been here, through locals, fishermen or stockies, I’ve been mightily entertained. Leave your high falutin at the kerb!

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Talbot Road, Kyalite, NSW T: 03 5038 2221 FB: Kyalite Pub

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PUB OF THE MONTH

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Mannum Hotel, Mannum, SA

You want proof of the criticality of a great Boniface to the success of a pub?

Drop into this place and see Beachy the Boss in full swing.

A bloke who lights the rooms and infuses it with good cheer, his pub, with accommodation upstairs and parking around the back, is a standout for atmosphere and good characters. Where I met the first bloke who admitted getting a black eye from his wife, but alas no room here for that yarn!

15 Randall St, Mannum, SA T: 08 8569 1008

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The ‘Finger In’ Mulwala, NSW

Officially the Royal Mail, (the other pub in town is the Swinging Tit), how this place got its name ain’t what you think. Top staff working for a top boss and a favourite with contractors working here and across the river at Yarrawonga, a pretty place sadly bereft of a decent pub.

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123 Melbourne St, Mulwala, NSW T: 03 5744 3121 FB: Royal Mail Mulwala

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Laggan Hotel, Laggan, NSW

Gotta to be close to the best fire-pit in the country. Plus a tennis court in its huge backyard, this place is special.

Chuck in a cosy bar; being run by a bloke who enjoys visitors, strays and bike riders; surrounding roads infested with twisties and its position pretty close midway through a 7 hour loop from Sydney, this is an absolute gem for riders from the Emerald City looking for a break in a day ride.

Open from 4pm weekdays and ‘around midday’ on weekends, there’s no accommodation but decent meals and an even better attitude. Just watch your head on the Toby Jugs.

3 Peelwood Rd, Laggan, NSW T: 02 4837 3208 FB: Laggan Pub

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Pretty Pine Hotel, Deniliquin, NSW Run by the diligent Denise and well, the not quite so Twang, this is a family run, fun focussed pub that stands pretty much on its own at the fork of the Cobb Hwy and Pretty Pine road. Only three rooms but huge backyard for throwing your swag or tent and all bikes can be parked inside the lockable fence. Open 7 days from 10 till you’ve had enough, meals Thursday til Sunday but if you’re famished, just ask nice!

Cobb Hwy 18km north of Deniliquin, NSW T: 03 5882 3564 FB: Pretty Pine Hotel

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PUB OF THE MONTH

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Bland Hotel, Quandialla, NSW

Anything but Bland, this pub’s in the caring hands of Daniel who’s turning it into a destination pub and is probably going to save this struggling old silo town on his own.

This guy collects everything from bedpans to telephone exchanges plus old machinery and it’s stored across the road.

Beg for a tour before it’s sorted into what will be an extraordinary museum. The pub’s open 6 days excluding Sunday and Jeremy serves up top meals every opening day. The rooms have been renovated and are breezy and comfortable. Memorable.

4 Second St, Quandialla, NSW T: 02 6347 1253 FB: Bland Hotel 88

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Tintaldra Hotel, Tintaldra, VIC

The ‘Tinpot’s” taken more hits than George Foreman but it’s getting back off the ropes. The highest hotel right

on the Murray, I’ve been trying to write about this place for at least ten years and it’s never held a manager long enough for it to get to print. Now owned and run by Darren with London trained Jo cooking up

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19 a storm in the kitchen, it’s closed Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday morning but open til late the rest of the time. Accommodation should be up and running early Feb. Great camping across the road on the river bank or at the caravan park. Top place.

Main St,Tintaldra, Vic T: 0400 800 648 Run by Darren FB:Tintaldra Hotel

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The Tooma Inn, NSW

Closed Monday and Tuesday but open from 11.00 til late the rest with lunch and dinner every day. Only one room (Queen double with 4 singles) available but free camping across the road beside the stream. Store your bike in the shed and you won’t be scraping off the frost in the morning.

Surrounded by great riding, both unsealed and tar. Feel the serenity!

Possum Point Road,Tooma, NSW T: 02 6948 4012 Chris and Trevor FB:The Tooma Inn

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Wellington Hotel, Wellington, SA

Perched high on the western bank of the Murray, overlooking the lowest ferry on the river, the Welly’s front garden and veranda make an unrivalled spot to watch the ebbing of the day.

Or you could take a dip off the pub’s

pontoon. You can park next to your self-contained and reasonably priced cabin beside the pub. The museum next door ain’t half bad either.

27 Mason St, Wellington, SA T: 08 8572 7206 FB:The Welly Hotel

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Willow Tree Inn, Willow Tree, NSW

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For me, this is a mandatory stopover when returning down the New England or the Kamilaroi on the way back from the bush to Sydney. What the Graze restaurant inside this pub is doing with food, especially beef from its own Colly Creek Station about 10kms north, is superb. The bar atmosphere is old world sophisticate and the open fires in winter are unmatched. There’s a range of accommodation from $120 a single but there’s also free community camping across the railway line on Recreation Road.

Go on! You deserve it!

21 New England Hwy, Willow Tree, NSW T: 02 6747 7711 FB: Graze at the Willow Tree Inn D www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

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F A L L C O L OU R S T O UR Book your spot.

Now!

FALL COLOURS TOUR PARADISE M

OTORCYC LETOURS INFO@PA .CO.NZ RADISEM OTORCYC LE TOURS.C O.NZ PH: +64 2 74 765 03 5

SOUTH ISLAND, NEW ZEALAND APRIL 2021 W

E’RE ALL DESPERATE TO ride, and there is no better place than the South Island of New Zealand. It seems a little less likely – though it’s still not impossible! -- day by day whether our Rider’s Tour will go ahead, which is a real shame as it would have been one of the best to be a part of. However, the genius folk at Paradise Motorcycle Tours have created an alternative...

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FA L L C O L O U R S T O U R With the amazing colours of the Autumn trees, and a dusting of snow on the mountains it’s a magical time to tour the South Island.

To book your spot you must hurry and contact Paradise Motorcycle Tours at paradisemotor cycletours.co.nz, email info@ paradisemotorcycletours.co.nz or phone +64 274 765 035.

Overview

Arrive 3 April 2021 Saturday Christchurch Tour starts 4 April Sunday Tour ends 17 April Saturday Christchurch Depart 18 April Sunday 14 riding days Unlimited Kms Reduced excess from NZ$3000 to NZ$750 at no charge BMW trained Kiwi tour-guide lead rider Tour-guide, support vehicle and luggage trailer 15 nights excellent accommodation 15 breakfasts Welcome drinks Tour celebration Farewell Dinner Milford Sound Cruise

Day 1 Arrive Christchurch

Meet your bike at 17:00. Welcome

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drinks at 18:30. Meet your Paradise tour guides and Stuart from AMM.

Day 2 Christchurch to Blenheim 310km

We leave after breakfast heading North riding through rural land until we get to the Pacific Coast. After stopping in Kaikoura we continue alongside the mountains and beside the sea until we get to the Store, where the road heads inland. Great riding all day, sweeping bends, twisty climbs through the mountains, beautiful views.

Overnight in Blenheim.

Day 3 Blenheim to Nelson 170 kms

We’ll start the day at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre with its WW1 display designed by Peter Jackson (optional activity, extra charge) and then ride to Picton.

Ride along Queen Charlotte Drive to Nelson, another spectacular road, with beautiful views along most of the 25-mile route into Havelock.

The ride climbs and rounds the headland overlooking Picton, the terminus for all freight and passenger traffic to-and-from Wellington, then over a low saddle between Charlotte

Sound and Pelorus Sound, two of the four waterways that collectively make up the Marlborough Sounds. The road runs alongside several peaceful bays.

Pass through Havelock, the home of ‘Green Lipped Mussels’ which are exported throughout the world. The mussel beds are clearly visible in the sounds. The route from Havelock is hilly and winding, with great roads and passes through miles of pine forests, planted for their timber. The fresh smell of pine forest is wonderful.

The land flattens out as you approach Nelson, the biggest fishing port in New Zealand and the second largest city in the South Island, an attractive cosmopolitan city with upmarket shopping and restaurants and its own ‘Mediterranean’ microclimate.

Nelson’s diverse geography encapsulates everything from the long golden beaches to untouched forests and rugged mountains.

Overnight in Nelson.

Day 4 Nelson to Hanmer Springs 352 kms Leave Nelson, heading south. Your onward journey takes you through Murchison. The most outstanding feature on this stretch of road is the Maruia Falls.

The road then follows the Buller

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through undulating country with high bush clad mountains not far away on either side.

The small settlement at Springs Junction is next on your route, predominantly a service centre for travellers where you can buy petrol or a cup of tea.

The road climbs steadily to the summit of the Lewis Pass at 865m.

The Lewis Pass is a fabulous scenic ride and an old Maori greenstone trail. This is alpine riding at its best successions of sweeping corners and undulations set amidst world-class mountain scenery, following the route of the Maruia River.

At the top of the Lewis Pass is the St James Walkway.

The road then follows the Hope River to the Waiau River through an expanse of farmland, straight, open roads with wide bends and superb views.

Turn left to Hanmer Springs and keep an eye out for bungee jumpers on Ferry Bridge as you cross the bridge across the Waiau Gorge.

Hanmer Springs is an Alpine Resort with famous Hot Springs.

Overnight in Hamner Springs.

Day 5 Rest, ride or explore Hanmer Springs 350 kms

If adventure is what you are after, look

no further than the wild beauty of Hanmer; it is a haven for forest hiking, mountain biking, horse trekking, bungee jumping, jet boating, and the Hot Springs. Your guides can give you some great road and easy gravel track routes.

Day 6 Hanmer Springs to Hokitika

Another chance to ride the Lewis pass, then through the lower Buller Gorge to the beautiful west coast.

You leave Hanmer Springs, the road follows the Waiau river through an open expanse of farmland – the road is open and with wide bends and superb open views – very different from yesterdays views, the road then follows the Lewis river through beech forests.

Ride through the beautiful Victoria Forest Park – miles of New Zealand Beech trees rise up either side of the road. Stop at Reefton, ‘The Town of Light’ which owes its origins to the discovery of rich quartz gold reefs in the 1800’s. In August 1888, at the height of the gold rush, Reefton turned on electric street lighting before any other town in the Southern Hemisphere. Gold is part of the town’s culture as well as its past,

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FA L L C O L O U R S T O U R after re-opening one of its Gold Mines in 2006. Carry on through Larrys Creek on the Inanganhua River, a great place for trout fishing.

Carry on through the spectacular Lower Buller Gorge, where the road clings to the edge of the river next to the vertical stone cliffs.

On to the dramatic and rugged scenery of the ‘coast road’. Winding its way between the bush clad slopes, studded with Nikau Palms and the surf of the Tasman Sea this has to be one of New Zealand’s most beautiful rides.

You will pass through Punakaiki where you will find the intriguing Pancake Rocks and blowholes.

The pancake rocks began forming 30 million years ago when limestone was overlaid with softer mudstone in a succession of layers. Over years, the elements have eroded the rock, leaving a pancake effect. When the sea is rough, the sound of the blowholes can be heard for miles. It is best to visit the blow holes at high tide.

Arrive at Hokitika. First settled in 1860, it was an important river port where many ships met their demise on the notorious ‘Hokitika Bar’ – a sandbar that shifts with every tide. The centre of the West Coast Gold Rush in the 1860s it was at that time the most populous settlement in NZ with a population of 25,000 and over 100 pubs. There are some lovely old buildings on the town’s historic walk, and you will notice several galleries specialising in pounamu (greenstone) jewellery and art works. You’ll have time to explore the town in the morning.

Overnight in Hokitika.

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Day 7 Hokitika to Franz Josef 135 kms It is the ‘Ice Run’ today! Ride along the West Coast with views across the Tasman Sea. The scenery changes as you approach Glacier country to native rainforest, green and lush. Travel through Ruatapu and on to the gold town of Ross.

Then it is onto arguably the West Coast’s most picturesque lake, Lake Ianthe, where you can get up close and personal with the local birdlife by taking a natural history cruise with Tamati Nature Tours out onto the forest-lined lake in a Kauri launch.

Continuing along the Hari Hari highway, you cross the Wanganui River and ride through the town of Hari Hari, once a logging settlement but today a popular location for bush walking, bird watching, trout and salmon fishing. Along the main highway, you will find tearooms, a dairy and craft shops.

Ride past two of Westland’s lakes Lake Wahapo, a haven for fishing and home to thousands of native birds, and Lake Mapourika, a kettle lake formed when a large block of ice was left behind by the retreating Franz Josef Glacier some 14,000 years ago.

Your destination today is Franz Josef Glacier; nowhere else in the world at this latitude have glaciers advanced so close to the coast. The glacier is currently 12km long and terminates 19km from the Tasman Sea. The area surrounding the two glaciers (Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers)

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is part of Te Wahipounamu, a World Heritage Site park.

The Māori name for the glacier is Ka Roimata o Hinehukatere (‘The tears of Hinehukatere’), arising from a local legend: Hinehukatere loved climbing in the mountains and persuaded her lover, Wawe, to climb with her. Wawe was a less experienced climber than Hinehukatere but loved to accompany her until an avalanche swept Wawe from the peaks to his death. Hinehukatere was broken hearted and her many, many tears flowed down the mountain and froze to form the glacier.

Julius Haast was the first European visitor to describe the glaciers in 1864.

He named the northern glacier Franz Josef, after the Emperor of Austria.

The southern glacier was named after Premier William Fox, who visited the area in 1872.

For those that have booked helicopter flights onto the Glacier this afternoon is your first chance. It’s always weather dependent, mountains attract clouds, you will have another chance on the other side of Mount Cook.

ranges. It is home to the ultimate adventure bucket list, including skiing in winter, bungee jumping, sky diving, canyon swinging, jet boating, horse trekking, and river rafting year-round.

There are so many activities and adventures to choose from around Queenstown – you will have plenty of time on your leisure day to get out and about. There are some great rides from Queenstown and your guides will give you all the information you need to enjoy them.

Day 10 Queenstown to Milford Sound 288 kms Your ride today takes you around the spectacular Lake Wakatipu to the untouched area of Fiordlands.

At the southernmost end of Lake Wakatipu is the pretty township of Kingston.On to Te Anau and Fiordland.

Nestled on the edge of Lake Te Anau, the largest lake in the South

Day 8 Franz Josef to Queenstown 360 kms

A very picturesque ride to the adventure seekers paradise, with some very serious twisties for those that want to get some lean angle.

Day 9 Enjoy Queenstown

Queenstown sits on the shores of the crystal-clear Lake Wakatipu, set amongst the dramatic alpine

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FA L L C O L O U R S T O U R

Island and second only within New Zealand to Lake Taupo, the picturesque town of Te Anau is the main base for the glacier carved wilderness of the Fiordland National Park.

Today’s ride takes you to the most famous natural attraction in New Zealand.

Fill up with fuel in Te Anau – there is no fuel in Milford!

The road hugs the shoreline of Lake Te Anau for about 29km until it reaches Te Anau Downs. From Te Anau Downs, the road veers right and enters the Eglinton Valley.

The road then runs parallel to the right side of the Eglinton River for 33km while it passes through Knobs Flat.At Cascade Creek, the road emerges onto the shorelines of Lake Gunn and Lake Fergus.

Stop at the Mirror lakes – on a calm day the mountains reflect in the black water.The road then passes through a saddle and emerges at the upper section of the Hollyford Valley. Stop at the lookout point for amazing views.

After Hollyford, the road veers to the west and rises steadily along the valley to its highest point at the Homer 96

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Tunnel. At 1,270 metres long, it is the second-longest road tunnel in New Zealand. The tunnel, carved out by hand through the mountains, is a oneway road, and you may have to wait up to 15 minutes for the lights to change.

Sunglasses off in the tunnel, there are no lights.

The road emerges at the head of the Cleddau Valley and the last 16km descend along the valley to Milford Sound. Keep an eye out for the cheeky, very intelligent Kea Alpine parrots – they have a taste for rubber and plastic, so don’t encourage them anywhere near your bike!

Overnight in Milford Sound.

Day 11 Milford Sound to Te Anau 110 Km

We’ll start the day with a cruise on Milford Sound.

Milford Sound is justifiably the most famous visitor destination in New Zealand. Visitors are drawn by the spectacular sights of waterfalls cascading from sheer rock faces rising 1,200 metres or more from the sea, lush rain forests clinging precariously

to the cliffs, and the seals, penguins and dolphins that frequent the waters.

With 182 days of rain every year, Milford Sound is one of the wettest places in New Zealand however the rain creates stunning treats for visitors with dozens of temporary waterfalls created both at Milford Sound and along the Milford Road.

Maori are believed to have discovered Milford Sound more than 1,000 years ago, returning seasonally to the fiord to collect the much-prized pounamu. These treks from the east used traditional pathways across passes such as MacKinnon Pass on the Milford Track. The Maori named the sound Piopiotahi after the thrush-like piopio bird, now extinct.

In 1812 John Grono was the first European settler to land in the sound.

He named Milford Sound after Milford Haven in Wales, while the Cleddau River which flows into the sound is also named for a Welsh stream.

Overnight in Te Anau.

Day 12 Te Anau to Invercargill

A relatively short but great ride through the Southern Scenic Routs to Invercargill today. Quiet roads with very little traffic in this mostly unpopulated area.

Great scenery as we ride alongside the sea, not much in between us and Antarctica here.

We have lots to see and explore

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in Invercargill. All the Burt Munro bikes, gear and memorabilia, plus the most wonderful motorcycle museum, the beach that Burt used to race on, the list goes on.

Overnight in Invercargill.

Day 13 Invercargill to Mount Cook Village

is next, in the heart of a prosperous farming area with sheep, cattle, deer, dairy cows, cropping and fruit growing in abundance.

Almost 3,000 people live in the township and surrounding areas.

You are now on the scenic route to Christchurch travelling via Route 72. This rural main road follows the western boundary of the Canterbury Plains and takes you through a succession of country towns, including Staveley.

Ride through the lush farmland of the Canterbury Plains through Mount Hutt, the main skiing area for residents of Christchurch.

We head north through the magical landscape of Central Otago today, back towards the mountains and lakes. Through the moonscape that surrounds Alexandra, and on to Cromwell and the fruit bowl of New Zealand. Then we ride the Lindis Pass and into Makenzie Country. So blue lakes and Mount Cook await.

Overnight in Mount Cook.

Group A F750 GS, F800GS, F850GS Day 14 Group B R1200GS, R1250GS Mount Cook Group C K1600GT, R1200RT, R1250RT

The nitty gritty

Village to Christchurch

Ride towards Lake Tekapo and the Mackenzie ranges heading towards Burke’s Pass; separating the Two Thumbs and Rollesby Ranges, Burkes Pass permits easy entry to the high tussock lands of the Mackenzie District.

Pass through Fairlie.

The town of Geraldine

Per person prices for the tour are in NZ$ BIKE CLASS

SINGLE RIDER OWN ROOM

COUPLE TOTAL PRICE

GROUP A

14,000

15,925

GROUP B

15,500

17,500

GROUP C

15,800

18,200

Like a patchwork quilt made with every shade of green, the Canterbury Plains lie between the mountains and the sea, formed from the alluvial shingle fans of several large rivers the Waimakariri, Raikaia, Selwyn and Rangitata. The area produces more than 80% of New Zealand’s grains, crops and seeds.

Arrive at Christchurch, the most English of our cities, built on the banks of the Avon River and sadly damaged by earthquakes.

An eclectic mix of historic elegance and contemporary culture, Christchurch is known as the gateway to the South Island.

Described by Lonely Planet as a “vibrant city in transition, coping resiliently and creatively,” Christchurch’s energy is evident wherever you go. The city has bounced back after the Canterbury Earthquakes of 2010 and 2011 with innovative new 2 RIDERS, attractions, as well 2 BIKES, SHARE as some old favourites.

ROOM Upon arrival in Christchurch, please return 11,200 your bikes to our base at Unit 5, 365 Wilsons Road, Waltham, Christchurch.

12,600 Overnight in Christchurch, Tour Celebration 13,300 Dinner tonight. D www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

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RIDE

BROUGH SUPERIOR SS100

LAZARUS A LA FRANCE WORDS THE BEAR

B

PHOTOS BROUGH SUPERIOR

ROUGH SUPERIOR MOTORCYCLES DIED as the Battle of Britain was born.

Not that the small factory in Hayden Road in Nottingham was bombed in the Blitz, at least not as far as I know.

But the building of ‘gentleman’s conveyances’ had to yield to the necessities of war production.

You might have thought that the bikes were, well, bikes. After all, they were described as ‘The Rolls Royce of motorcycles’. But they were more than that, and George Brough refused to resurrect them after the Second World War because he did not feel that it would be possible to achieve the quality he demanded.

The marque had to wait for resurrection until Mark Upham bought the name, and entrusted Thierry Henriette to do what Brough himself did not think was possible.

Henriette achieved it in, of all places, France. Between them, Boxer Design

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in Toulouse and engine builder Akira in Bayonne have managed to create Broughs that certainly look as if they deserve the old soubriquet. But do match not only the looks but also the ineluctable qualities and mythos of the originals? Are the new Broughs worthy of the classic lettering on the tank, and has the ‘gentleman’s conveyance’ returned to the roads of the world?

I have admired the new Broughs in photos and at international motorcycle shows, but in the end, there was only one way to be sure what they were about: that was to ride one. As it turned out I managed to ride two, a Pendine Sands Racer and an SS100. What follows is not intended to be a road test; I had the bikes for a couple of hours and less than 100 kilometres.

But that was long enough to get the feel of the new constructions.

During the handover chat, Australian importer Fred Drake told me that the bikes draw attention wherever they

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0

/ PENDINE SANDS RACER

Take a $105,000 motorcycle out onto the sand? Well, I suppose if you can afford it in the first place…

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PENDINE SANDS RACER

RIDE

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appear, from both motorcyclists and non-riders. I can well believe that; even someone who has no interest whatever in bikes will be fascinated by the sheer perfection of the engineering and workmanship.

Made eminently obvious by the ultra-spare construction of the bikes (there is nothing unnecessary here), the frame and other parts all gleam with purpose.

The new Broughs feel smaller than they appear. I suspect they look larger because there is so

much to see on them, all the billet alloy parts clearly obvious.

I fired up the yellow Pendine and the bike started without hesitation.

It quickly settled into a somehow chunky idle, and you quickly notice their second unique aspect after the workmanship. The bikes – the SS100 proved to be the same -- create a hard, hammer-like rolling engine noise. But that’s all. Unlike any other motorcycle I have ridden, they do not seem to produce secondary noise. No gear whine, no chain howl,

SELECT EDGE MOTORCYCLE ACCESSORIES

AUTHORISED CORBIN DISTRIBUTOR

no nothing. What you get is what you hear, and it is worth listening to.

Technically the bikes are up to date. Mechanically they could almost be called simple. The liquid cooled 997cc, 88-degree vee twin engine with its 11:1 compression ratio produces 75kW at 9600rpm and 87Nm at 7300rpm in Euro 4 form. There are no Euro 5 Broughs just yet; it’s fortunate that the EU has decided to give manufacturers another year to upgrade their vehicles to the new standard.

sales@selectedge.com.au www.selectedge.com.au (03) 9467 7622

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RIDE The SS100 is the bike for me.Wonder if I could crowdfund it?

The compact size and low seats of the new Brough Superiors make them accessible to women riders.

They now have until the end of 2021.

The engine allows the bikes to ‘proceed swiftly’ without in any way challenging the performance of a modern sports bike. The ‘Racer’ in Pendine Sands Racer is an historical honorific not a description. The aviation derived Beringer brakes work effectively and unobtrusively, which is how I like my brakes to work. The clutch pull is light and the weight distribution is 50/50.

Almost like the originals, none of the new Brough Superiors seem to be quite alike. George Brough personalized each motorcycle he made for the buyer, and you could just about do the same with these machines. My Pendine Sands Racer, for instance, had a high pipe on the left which did its best to barbecue my thigh. A lower pipe seems to be fitted to most other Pendines.

I would recommend that option, and not just in summery Queensland.

The odd-looking but clearly competent Fior front suspension with its twin articulated triangular titanium links copes well with even deep potholes, as does the rear monoshock. Both are adjustable for preload and rebound.

Both bikes pulled away comfortably from a standing start and turned into corners securely and smoothly. The 19-inch front wheel of the Pendine, matched by a 17-inch rear as against the SS100’s 18/18, makes it a little more ‘tippy’ at walking speed, but that is just about the only difference between the bikes. Mind you, when my foot slipped while I was wheeling the Pendine around for photos, instead of my life, the price tag flashed through my mind.

Ah yes, price… you know what they say: if you have to ask, you can’t afford it. Just like their predecessors, the new Brough Superiors cost much the same as a somewhat above-average annual income. That’s $105,000 for the Pendine Sand Racer and either the same or five thousand dollars more for the SS100, depending on whether you want the Euro 3 or Euro 4 version – plus on-roads. The 100th Anniversary edition will set you back $168,000.

The new Brough Superiors stand out by the sparse beauty of their engineering, their outstanding quality

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RIDE

(and uniqueness) of parts and workmanship, and that wonderful sound. They are neither performance bikes nor long-distance tourers.

But they are, dare I say it, once again ‘gentleman’s conveyances’.

A word about the use of ‘gentleman’ in this story. I employ it because it formed part of the phrase in common usage at the time.

It is not intended to be exclusive of women. Brough Superior Motorcycles itself has gone to some lengths to remove any gender exclusivity in its brochures.

Female riders are featured in photos, and their relatively slim figures suit the surprisingly delicate-looking motorcycles well.

Londoner Jean Knight is a good example of a female Brough rider.

She bought hers as a garage find back in the early ‘60s because she couldn’t afford a car, and even once she could she kept the SS100 for, as she puts it, “high days and holidays”.

Would I have one? Like a shot.

I’d take the SS100 with its 18inch wheels. These ‘gentleman’s (and obviously gentlewoman’s) conveyances’ are unique on the market. Would I buy one? I doubt that my investment advisor (aka

Despite the larger front and smaller rear wheels, the Pendine has excellent cornering manners.

Mrs Bear) would think that was a good idea. And if you (like me) are bemoaning the fact that you’ll never be able to afford one, consider that you (like me) are probably not a gentleman anyway. And console yourself with the thought that most of the buyers of the new Brough

Superiors will not be, either.

They’ll just be rich.

(My thanks to Fred Drake of Brough Superior Motorcycles Australia for allowing me to ride the bikes and not making me sign my first-born over to him in case I dropped one.) D

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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.

1 YEAR (12 ISSUES) $104.95 (2 FREE ISSUES) 2 YEARS (24 ISSUES) $199.95 (5 FREE ISSUES) To subscribe to Australian Motorcyclist please visit our website www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au / email us at contactus@ausmotorcyclist.com.au

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*Terms and conditions. This promotion commences at 12.00am (AEST) Thursday 21 January 2021 and closes at 11.59pm (AEST) Wednesday 17 February, 2021 (“Promotional Period”).

The judging will take place at the Promoter’s premises, Suite 4b, Level 1, 11-13 Orion Rd, Lane Cove West NSW. The winner will be drawn by the Editor of Australian Motorcyclist Magazine on Thursday 18 February, 2021 and will be notified by telephone or email. One entry per person will be permitted during the promotional period. The winner will be drawn at random.

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WHATSAYYOU?

W

E 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.

A COOL READ

LETTER OF THE MONTH

T

HIS MONTH’S LETTER OF the month goes to Craig who pretty much captures making the most of what we can do while not being able to ride to other States and Territories at the moment.

Send me your T-shirt size and mailing address, mate. And, for all your luggage needs, jump onto nelsonrigg. com.au and check out the entire range.

SW

RIDE WHERE YOU CAN

Hi Stuart, I, like everyone else have been craving being able to ride wherever I like.

I find there is nothing better than jumping on the bike and getting out of the ratrace into the country and while making me feel great, help out the towns I visit with whatever I can – accommodation, meals, coffee (very important) and so on.

One thing I have done is I have done a couple of rides within the vicinity I’m allowed to set in stone by the Gumnit imbeciles. This alone helps businesses in my own State and I know that so many small businesses, especially travel and hospitality areas are doing it really tough. I’ve spent what I can and the smile you get from wherever I go is what makes it all the more worthwhile. I hope everyone else reading this decides to do the same.

Regards, Gaz, Picton, NSW

Check this out, guys…

How a two-wheeled work of art set my young heart racing (smh. com.au) https://www. smh.com.au/culture/ art-and-design/how-atwo-wheeled-work-ofart-set-my-young-heartracing-20201223-p56ps0. html HNY2021 Chrism

DELUDED?

That idiot, Boris Mihailovic, is a Neanderthal who thinks he can write. His article “Get into the sea, He-Karens” shows just how deluded he is, thinking he’s a hero, the classic ‘legend in his own mind’.

Sadly, of the 3 gentlemen he derides, one is probably the lawyer who will defend him on his next charge of culpable riding, one is the skilled surgeon who will repair his broken body after his collision, and the third is a pensioner who can barely afford to own a bike but desperately needs a day out with his mates. I have to wonder what he thinks of The Bear, or of the worldwide phenomenon of touring bike companies catering to the over 50’s and retirees.

Please stop publishing his crap, it cheapens what is an otherwise good magazine.

Ken Johnson, Portland

WHEELED UP

Hi Stu, Happy new year to you – I hope 2021 is better for everyone.

When I wore my front tyre down to the canvas and had to take what I could get to replace it, the only thing available was a Marathon.

Since I had that fitted the steering

has had a wobble in it which I put down to the block tread on the tyre.

However, I had a brake disc replaced under warranty and the Procycles guy remarked on the wobble and suggested the rim had been bent during the tyre change (spoked wheel). Is this likely? I would have thought those tyre change machines grip the rim so tightly that wouldn’t happen. I didn’t see it being done as we went and had lunch while it was happening.

See you on the road Cheers, Jack

G’day Mr Haley, Happy New Year to you too!

It is possible to bend a rim if you’re overly powerful like King Kong and when popping the bead don’t have the rim angled correctly – the rest of the tyre change there is no way it could be bent. Very rare for this to happen, in fact mega rare I’d say.

I dare say the wobble would have been from poor balancing? Unless there’s a visible bend in the rim while being spun?

Cheers, Stuart.

PACK YOUR BAGS!

Hi Stu, Sounds like a trip to the Burt Munro Challenge might be on!

I’m really excited to join your tour.

I’ll see you there.

Cheers, John

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to improve my biceps to improve my biceps improve my biceps Hito Harry, I’m Harry, sure your legs look fine to the ones that Hi Hi Harry, care…your As fiforneyour being a I’m sure yourfamily. legs look to thebike onesnotthat I’m sureexercise your legs lookforfine the ones very good machine, youto better getthat an a care…your family.

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Now, nohas such trips.panic up of products like loo paper, Ibuying know there been terms of buying a California, just toinextend the I know there has been panic in terms of tissues, hand sanitizer, pasta, canned buying up of products like loo paper, Guzzi collection. I bought a Cali EV buying up ofsanitizer, products like loo paper, tomatoes other This panic tissues, pasta, 1100,hand aand couple ofproducts. hours incanned the shed tissues, hand sanitizer, pasta, canned to replace the footboards pegs buying hasand been ridiculous inwith my tomatoes other products.

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This panic and we have extended riding and created a problem of Peter’s store supply buying hasand been ridiculous in my opinion buying has been ridiculous instockpile my opinion enjoyment another couple ofsupply years. where there no need and created awas problem of to store and Merry createdChristmas a problemto of you storeand supply COVID 1 goods there at home. note thattothe news where wasIno need stockpile where there was no need to stockpile the team, Dear Stuart, reports say that a small supermarket COVID 1 goods at home. I note that the news COVID 1 goods at home.

I note that the news Cheers, Peter ClearlyStuart, there is a lot of economic group Drake’s has Glasson refused to buy back Dear reports Dear Stuart, reportssay saythat thataa small small supermarket supermarket downturn as a result of COVID19 and it 150 x 32 roll packs of toiletto and Clearly there is a lot of economic group Drake’s has refused buy back Clearly there is a lot of economic group Drake’s has refused topaper buy back Hi John, Hi Peter, is further impacting on car sales and I 1 ltr sanitizer.

I am GLAD they downturn as a result of COVID19 and it 150 x 32 roll packs of toilet paper and downturn as atime result COVID19 andtoit 150 x 32 great roll packs of toilet paper and From the youofsent this email That’s you got a Cali - now would think motorcycle sales (which I refused a refund as the individual is further impacting on car sales and I 150 x 1 ltr sanitizer.

I am GLAD they is further impacting on to carpublish sales and 150 1 ltrand sanitizer.

I am GLAD they me getting it ready in Ithis getx out enjoy as much riding think have been down anyway pre concerned was having about 20 people would think motorcycle sales (which I refused a refund as the individual section the mag, we’re all backI as youa can! would thinkofmotorcycle sales (which refused refund as the individual Covid19). chase thesewas products then20 think have been down concerned having about people weirdness.

I dare say ourpre trip Cheers, Stuart. think have been downanyway anyway pre will concerned was havingand about 20hepeople There is nobody much on the roads in attempted to re-sell on E-Bay. Serve Covid19). chase these products and then he certainly not go ahead which is rather chase these products and then he the Covid19). theThere ACT those who by necessity bugger right being scungyServe There is nobody much ononthe inin attempted to re-sell on the sad.

Inobody do look forward to roads the Fall isexcept much the roads attempted tofor re-sell onaE-Bay. E-Bay. Serve the have to go out for work or food and individual! the ACT except those who by necessity bugger right for being a scungy Tourthose whichwho I have theColours ACT except by necessity bugger right for being a scungy fingers and toes crossed essentials.

All that said, I think your quoting of have to gogo out forfor work ororfood individual! have to out work foodand and individual! goes Might I have beenahead. managing tosee use the bike for fiAll gures theIIpeople thatquoting die dailyoffrom essentials.

All that said, think essentials. thatof said, think your your you onmanaging that one.the trips within confi nes of the cancer, heart mozzies Iessential have been toto use for people that from I have been managing usethe thebike bike for fi figures guresof of the thedisease, peoplediabetes, that die daily from Cheers, Stuart.

ACT border but that is a big change from and murders is an unfair comparison!

Yes essential trips within the confi nes of the cancer, heart disease, diabetes, mozzies essential trips within the confines of the cancer, heart disease, diabetes, ourACT weekly ride group where we would to date the total numbers of COVID19 ACT border but that is a big change from and murders is an unfair comparison!

Yes border but that is a big change from and murders is an unfair Yes RIDE, RIDE, usually ride ride out of the where ACT to, say, deaths Wide wouldofbeCOVID19 exceeded by our weekly group wewe would to the numbers our weekly ride group where would todate dateWorld thetotal total numbers COVID19 RIDE Goulburn orout Boorowa orACT Yass adeaths week’sWorld worthWide or less perhaps of the by usually ride ofofthetheACT to,to,or say, deaths would be exceeded by usually ride out say, World Wide would Hi Stuart, Goulburn or BoorowaororYass Yassoror aweek’s week’sworth worthor or less less perhaps of the Goulburn or Boorowa a You may recall we exchanged

reasons for the daily figures of these deaths, however this fipandemic of COVID reasons for the daily gures of these reasons for the daily fi gures of these 19 is nothowever normal this andpandemic as you would know deaths, of COVID deaths, however of COVID hasisthe potential for totally 19 not normalthis andpandemic as youoverwhelming would know 19 notpotential normal you would know theishospital andand medical resources of all has the for as totally overwhelming has the potential for totally overwhelming countries.

I am awareresources of any cancers the hospital andnot medical of all the hospital and medical resources of all etc you canI am catch shaking countries. notfrom aware of anysomeone’s cancers countries.

I am notfrom awareshaking of any cancers hand orcan touching contaminated surfaces. etc you catch someone’s etc catchnormal from shaking someone’s So,you comparing worldwide deaths to hand orcan touching contaminated surfaces. hand or touching contaminated COVID19 deaths is likeworldwide trying surfaces. to compare So, comparing normal deaths to So, comparing normal worldwide deaths to SANTA’S apples and oranges.

COVID19 deaths is like trying to compare COVID19 deaths is like trying to compare ARRIVAL Iapples felt your andeditorial oranges.came across as apples and oranges.

Stuart and Bear, dismissive of the seriousness of asCovid19 feltyour youreditorial editorial cameacross across IIHave felt came as a happy xmas and I hope and smacked a bit of self-centredness in dismissive of the seriousness ofCovid19 Covid19 dismissive of the seriousness of Santa brings you a new motorcycle. highlighting the inconvenience it has and smacked a bit of self-centredness and of self-centredness I’msmacked wishing ahebitbrings me one too! inin caused you.

I like bikes and riding too, but highlighting the inconvenience has highlighting the inconvenience it ithas Cheers, Ken many people have had to alter travel plans caused you.ACT likebikes bikesand andriding ridingtoo, too, but Kambah, caused you.

IIlike but etc for the greater good. many people have had to alter travel plans many people have had to alter travel plans IMERRY think thatgreater all thegood. media etc forthe the greater good. reporting though XMAS etc for is worrisome for Australian peoplethough as it is I think that all the media reporting though IGuys, think that all the media reporting repeated and repeated and like the is worrisome for Australian people wanted for to say to you and your isJust worrisome Australian people asasit itis is families, have a great Christmas and bushfi resand yourepeated do not get alike break from it. repeated and repeated and likethe the repeated and a happy New Year.

2020 hasfrom been Every time you on T.V, look bushfi res you doturn notget get abreak break fromit.atit. bushfi res you do not athe pretty but here’s Facebook, listen to the radio it look islook in your Every time youterrible, turn onthe theT.V, T.V, Every time you turn on atat hoping 2021 is so much face or ears.

Facebook, listen to the radio it is in your Facebook, listen to the radio it is in your better. guys produce I tryor toears. reduce myYou listening/reading/ face or ears. face the best motorcycle to once orlistening/reading/ twice a day to keep up tryto toreduce reduce mylistening/reading/ IIwatching try my in thethan country by with developments -twice more that is upup watching onceorortwice daytoto keep watching totomagazine once a aday keep a country mile, so thank you. with - -more than that is is withdevelopments developments more than that Regards, Ryan

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W H AT S AY Y O U ’21 IS THE YEAR

Stuart, Bear, Ralph, Happy New Year to you all. Let’s hope we get back to some normality.

Riding this big brown land is too important and I know most of my mates are going stir crazy not being able to ride around wherever they like.

Cheers, Simon Gladstone, QLD

TYRED

G’day Stu, I just wanted to ask if you know of any problems others are having getting tyres for their bike? I have tried a number of places and nothing is available. It has resulted in me not being able to ride my bike as the tyres I have are well past their best.

The places I went to or called all said I’d need to wait until mid-Jan to mid-Feb before new shipments arrive.

Cheers, Mark

DAKAR

Hi Mark, Yes, most of the major tyre distributors in Australia have all but sold out of everything. I had spoken to a Pirelli rep just before Xmas and he said dribs and drabs have rolled in, but full shipments aren’t expected until January. This would also have a lot to do with most distributors closing down for Xmas and New Year holidays.

All I can suggest is you ring around many places, even interstate and get a set shipped to your door, then take them to your local shop for fitment.

Cheers, Stuart.

Hi George, Stage 2 didn’t go so well, but being such an amazing rider and one the entire field thinks is the fastest rider out there, I’m sure he’ll bounce back quick smart. We’ll have a wrap up of Dakar in the next issue.

Cheers, Stuart.

Hi Stuart, 2021 already and Dakar Rally has started. So good to see Toby kick off well and win Stage 1. Let’s hope he’s standing on the top step of the podium at the end.

Regards, George

TOUR OPERATOR The guide to the stars DIRECTORY

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:

ADRIATIC MOTO TOURS – Europe www.adriaticmototours.com info@adriaticmototours.com CENTRAL OTAGO MOTORCYCLE HIRE AND TOURS – New Zealand www.comotorcyclehire.co.nz info@comotorcyclehire.co.nz EDELWEISS BIKE TRAVEL – Worldwide tours* *Guided, Self-Guided + Rental www.edelweissbike.com IMTBIKE TOURS & RENTALS – Spain, Portugal, Morocco, Europe and Thailand www.imtbike.com tours@imtbike.com

MAGIC MOTORCYCLING – Thailand and Croatia www.magicmotorcycling.com tour@magicmotorcycling.com MOTORRAD TOURS – Worldwide office@motorrad-tours.com www.motorrad-tours.com PARADISE MOTORCYCLE TOURS – New Zealand & European Alps www.paradisemotorcycletours.co.nz RIDE THE WORLD MOTORCYCLE TOURS www.ridetheworldmotorcycletours.com david@rtwmotorcycletours.com

ROMANIA MOTORCYCLE TOURS – Europe www.romaniamotorcycletours.com office@romaniamotorcycletours.com SOUTH PACIFIC MOTORCYCLE TOURS – New Zealand www.motorbiketours.co.nz office@motorbiketours.co.nz TEWAIPOUNAMU 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

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NEWBIKEPRICES

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 Dorsoduro 900 ABS Tuono V4 1100 RR Tuono V4 1100 Factory RSV4 1100 Factory SCOOTERS SR MT 125 Scarabeo 200 ie

$15,190 $15,790 $22,490 $27,190 $33,990 $3390 $5190

BENELLI

www.benelli.com.au

*All Benelli prices are ride away ROAD TnT 125 $4390 402 S $TBA 502 C $9990 Imperiale $TBA Leoncino $9390 Leoncino Trail $9890 Leoncino Sport $TBA 752 S $12,990 ADV TOURING TRK 502 TRK 502 X

$9390 $9890

BMW

www.bmwmotorrad.com.au ROAD G 310 R F 800 R F 800 GT S 1000 R S 1000 R Sport S 1000 RR S 1000 RR Sport S 1000 RR Race R nineT R nineT Pure R nineT Scrambler R nineT Racer R nineT Urban G/S R 1250 R R 1250 R HP R 1250 R Exclusive R 1250 R Spezial R 1250 R R 1250 RS Sport R 1250 RS Exclusive R 1250 R Spezial R 1250 RT R 1250 RT Sport R 1250 RT Elegance R 1250 R Spezial K 1600 B K 1600 GT

$5790 $12,990 $16,300 $19,390 $21,690 $21,990 $23,990 $25,690 $22,490 $17,690 $18,750 $19,150 $18,750 $21,240 $27,040 $26,065 $26,765 $22,540 $28,215 $27,215 $28,065 $32,290 $33,190 $33,465 $34,215 $36,490 $36,490

K 1600 GT Sport K 1600 GTL K 1600 GTL Elegance

$36,990 $37,990 $40,490

ADV SPORT S 1000 XR S 1000 XR Carbon Sport

$22,190 $29,290

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 R 1250 GS R 1250 GS Rallye R 1250 GS Rallye X R 1250 GS Exclusive R 1250 GS Spezial R 1250 GSA R 1250 GSA Rallye R 1250 GSA Rallye X R 1250 GSA Exclusive R 1250 GSA Spezial

$8090 $13,590 $17,305 $13,840 $17,005 $17,990 $18,390 $22,305 $21,805 $18,240 $18,640 $21,505 $TBA $23,490 $24,940 $29,890 $28,140 $31,390 $25,490 $26,390 $31,590 $30,790 $30,540

SCOOTER C 650 Sport C 650 GT

$14,150 $14,990

CAN-AM (BRP) www.brp.com

Spyder F3 Spyder F3-S Spyder F3-T Spyder F3 Limited Spyder RT Spyder RT Limited

$TBA $TBA $TBA $TBA $TBA $TBA

ADV TOURING Multistrada 950 Red Multistrada 950 S Red Multistrada 950 S Grey Multistrada 950 S Red Spokes Multistrada 950 S Grey Spokes Multistrada 1260 Red Multistrada 1260 S Red Multistrada 1260 S White/Grey Multistrada 1260 S T-Pack Multistrada 1260 S Pikes Peak Multistrada 1260 Enduro Red Multistrada 1260 Enduro Sand Multistrada 1260 Enduro Red T-Pack Multistrada 1260 Enduro Sand T-Pack

$20,990 $23,490 $23,790 $23,750 $23,990 $26,490 $31,190 $31,390 $33,190 $38,490 $31,990 $32,190 $34,690 $34,890

HARLEY-DAVIDSON

CF MOTO

www.harley-davidson.com

www.cf-moto.com.au ROAD 150NK $3290 250NK $3990 650NK $6490 650TK $7990 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 Scrambler 1100 Scrambler 1100 Special Scrambler 1100 Sport Monster 659 Monster 797 Monster 821

Monster 821 Stealth $18,590 Hypermotard $20,790 Hypermotard SP $25,990 Supersport $17,790 Supersport S $20,250 Panigale 959 Red $22,490 Panigale 959 White $22,990 Panigale 959 Corse $25,990 Monster 1200 $22,990 Monster 1200 S Red $26,990 Monster 1200 S Grey $27,190 Monster 1200 R Red $30,190 Diavel 1260 $29,790 Diavel 1260 S $34,890 X Diavel $30,190 X Diavel S Black $35,490 X Diavel S White $35,790 Streetfighter V4 $29,800 Streetfighter V4 S $33,900 Panigale V4 $31,390 Panigale V4 S $39,990 Panigale V4 S GP $42,790 Panigale V4 Speciale $63,190 Panigale V4 Speciale Magnesium Wheel $68,190 Panigale V4 R $63,190 Panigale V4 R Superleggera $150,000

$13,490 $13,990 $17,540 $18,990 $19,290 $16,990 $18,990 $19,990 $12,490 $13,490 $17,500

* All Harley-Davidson prices are ride away CRUISER Street 500 $9995 Street Rod $12,995 SuperLow 883 $15,495 Iron 883 $15,495 Iron 1200 $16,495 Forty-Eight $18,995 Forty-Eight Special $18,995 Custom 1200 $19,250 Roadster $19,495 Street Bob $23,495 Low Rider $24,250 Slim $26,250 Fat Bob $27,495 Fat Bob 114 $30,250 Sport Glide $27,750 Deluxe $29,495 Fat Boy $30,995 Fat Boy 114 $33,995 Breakout $31,250 Breakout 114 $33,995 FXDR 114 $35,495 Heritage Classic $31,750 Heritage Classic 114 $33,995

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NEW BIKE PRICES Road King $34,250 Road King Special $35,250 Road Glide $36,495 Road Glide Special $37,495 Street Glide $36,495 Street Glide Special $37,495 Ultra Limited $39,995 Freewheeler $40,250 Tri Glide Ultra $50,995

Chief Dark Horse $28,995 Chief Vintage $32,995 Springfield $33,995 Springfield Dark Horse $34,995 Chieftain Dark Horse $35,995 Chieftain Limited $36,995 Roadmaster $40,995 Roadmaster Elite $49,995

CVO Street Glide 117 Road Glide 117 Ultra Limited 117

KAWASAKI

$49,750 $49,995 $52,995

HONDA

www.honda.com.au ROAD Grom $3490 Monkey $5399 CB125E $2399 CB300R $5999 CB500F $7599 CBR500R $7699 CBR600RR $14,999 CB650F $9799 CB650R $9999 CBR650F $9999 CBR650R $10,299 CB1000R $16,799 CBR1000RR Fireblade $18,086 CBR1000RR Fireblade SP $28,499 Goldwing DCT $35,999 Goldwing Tour $41,999 Goldwing Tour Premium $42,999 CRUISER CMX $8099 ADV TOURING CRF250R Rally $7299 CB500X $7999 NC750XA $9999 Africa Twin $17,499 Africa Twin Adventure Sports $19,699 Africa Twin Adventure Sport DCT $19,999 VFR1200X Crosstourer $18,299 SCOOTER NSC110 Dio $2799 MW110 Benly $3349 C125 Super Cub $5199 SH150 $4999 PCX150 $4599 NSS300A Forza $7999

ROAD Z125 Pro KRT $4249 Z400 $6799 Ninja 400 $6899 Ninja 400 SE $7149 Z650L $10,499 Ninja 650/L Grey $10,699 Ninja 650/L Black $10,999 Ninja ZX-6R 636 KRT $15,199 W800 Café $13,999 W800 Street $13,499 Z900 $12,699 Z900RS $16,499 Z900RS Café $16,499 Z1000 $15,999 Ninja 1000 SX $16,999 Ninja 1000 SX SE $17,199 ZX-10R $23,900 ZX-10RR $35,500 ZX-14R $22,099 Z H2 $23,000 H2 SX SE $29,300 H2 Carbon $41,900 $9999 $10,199 $10,499 $12,699 $12,799

ADV TOURING Versys X 300 SE $6899 Versys 650/L $10,799 KLR650 $8199 Versys 1000 S $19,999

KTM

www.ktm.com.au ROAD 390 Duke 790 Duke 790 Duke R 1290 Super Duke R 1290 Super Duke GT

$7295 $14,995 $15,495 $25,995 $29,695

INDIAN

ADV TOURING 690 Enduro R 790 Adventure 790 Adventure R 1090 Adventure R 1290 Super Adv S 1290 Super Adv R

$17,595 $21,195 $22,695 $24,295 $28,395 $29,195

*All Indian Motorcycle prices are ride away

KYMCO

HUSQVARNA

www.husqvarna-motorcycles.com/au ROAD Vitpilen 401 Svartpilen 401 Vitpilen 701

$11,592 $11,592 $18,337

www.indianmotorcycles.com.au

CRUISER Scout Bobber $18,995 Scout $19,495 FTR1200 $20,995 FTR1200S $22,995 FTR1200S Race Rep $24,995

kymco.com.au ROAD CK 125

$2095

CRUISER Venox 250

$5295

$2595 $2995 $2799 $3395 $7495

LAMBRETTA

www.lambrettaaustralia.com.au

www.kawasaki.com.au

CRUISER Vulcan S Vulcan S SE Vulcan S Café Vulcan 900 Classic Vulcan 900 Custom

SCOOTER Super 8 125 Like 125 Espresso 150 Like 200 Downtown 300i ABS

V125 Special Fix V125 Special Flex V200 Special Fix V200 Special Flex

$4290 $4290 $4990 $4990

MOTO GUZZI

www.motoguzzi.com.au ROAD V7 III Stone V7 III Special V7 III Racer V7 III Anniversario V9 Bobber V9 Roamer

$12,990 $13,990 $16,490 $16,990 $15,190 $15,190

CRUISER Cali Audace Carbon $23,990 Cali 1400 Eldorado $23,990 Cali 1400 Touring SE $25,990 MGX-21 $35,000

MV AGUSTA

www.mvagusta.com.au ROAD F3 675 $20,490 F3 675 RC $26,990 Brutale 800 $20,490 Brutale 800 RR $23,490 Brutale 800 RR Pirelli $28,990 Brutale 800 RR America $26,990 Brutale 800 RR RC $30,880 Brutale 800 Dragster RR $26,390 Brutale 800 Dragster RC $30,880 Brutale 800 RR Hamilton $36,880 RVS #1 $49,990 F3 800 $22,490 F3 800 RC $28,990 Superveloce 800 $49,990 Turismo Veloce $22,490 Turismo Veloce Lusso $25,990 Turismo Veloce RC $29,880 Turismo Velo Lusso SCS $29,990 Turismo Veloce Lusso RC SCS $33,990 Brutale 1090 $21,490 Brutale 1090 RR $24,990 F4 $26,990 F4 RR $36,990 F4 RC $58,880 F4 Lewis Hamilton $89,880

PIAGGIO

www.piaggio.com.au

*Some Piaggio prices are ride away SCOOTER Typhoon 125 Fly 150 3V Liberty S 150 3V Medley 150 Yourban 300 BV 350 Sport Touring X10 350 X10 500

$2790 $3490 $3790 $5290 $9790 $8190 $9490 $9,990

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PEUGEOT

V-Strom 1050 V-Strom 1050 XT

*All Peugeot prices are ride away

SCOOTER Address

www.peugeotmotorcycles.com.au SCOOTER Tweet 125 Tweet 125 Pro Django 150 Belville 200 Metropolis 400

$4290 $4390 $5290 $5590 $14,790

ROYAL ENFIELD

www.royalenfieldaustralia.com *All Royal Enfield prices are ride away ROAD Classic 350 Classic 350 Redditch Bullet 500 Classic 500 Classic 500 Redditch Classic Chrome Bullet 500 Trials 650 Interceptor Classic 650 Interceptor Custom 650 Interceptor Chrome 650 Continental GT Classic 650 Continental GT Custom 650 Continental GT Chrome

$6490 $6490 $8690 $8990 $8990 $9190 $9190 $9990 $9990 $10,290 $9990 $10,190 $10,490

ADV TOURING Himalayan $7490

SUPER SOCO

www.supersoco.com.au *All Super Soco prices are ride away ROAD TS Sport $4790 TC Café Racer $5490 TC Max alloy wheel $7990 TC Max wire wheel $8290 CUX $4990 CUX Special Edition Ducati $5490

SUZUKI

www.suzukimotorcycles.com.au ROAD GSX-S125 $3490 GSX-R125 $4490 DR-Z400SM $9390 GSX-R600 $14,990 SV650 $8990 SV650 LAMS $9190 GSX-S750 $11,790 GSX-R750 $15,990 GSX-S1000 $15,190 GSX-S1000F $16,290 GSX-S1000 Katana $17,490 GSX-R1000 $21,990 GSX-R1000R $25,490 GSX1300R Hayabusa $19,490 CRUISER Boulevard S40 Boulevard C50T Boulevard M109R

$7990 $11,190 $19,790

ADV TOURING DR650SE $8290 V-Strom 650 $10,990 V-Strom 650 XT $12,290

$16,490 $18,990 $2820

SWM

VESPA

www.vespa.com.au

www.swmmotorcycles.com.au ROAD Gran Turismo Silver Vase 440 Gran Milano 440 SM 500 R SM 650 R

$7490 $7490 $7990 $8990 $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 $15,890 Street Scrambler $17,990 Bonneville T100 $17,300 Bonneville T100 Black $17,300 Bobber $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 $28,990 Tiger Sport $19,800 Speed Triple RS $25,290 CRUISER Rocket 3 R Rocket 3 GT

$29,990 $30,900

ADV TOURING Scrambler 1200 XC Scrambler 1200 XE 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

$22,500 $23,990 $20,950 $21,990 $24,150 $24,750 $26,600 $28,200 $29,990 $31,990

TRIUMPH FACTORY CUSTOM (TFC) www.triumphmotorcycles.com.au *All TFC prices are ride away ROAD Thruxton TFC Bobber TFC Rocket 3 TFC

Ranger $26,490 Ranger Sportsman LE $29,690 Ranger Sahara LE $29,990

$33,990 $29,990 $38,990

URAL

www.imz-ural.com.au ROAD cT $23,290

SCOOTER Primavera 125 3V $5590 Primavera 150 3V $6290 Sprint 150 3V $6390 Sprint 150 3V SE $6490 GTS 150 3V $6290 PX150 $6490 PX150 Touring $6790 946 Bellissima $12,490 946 Armani $14,990 GTS250ie FL $7890 GTS300 Super $9190 GTS300 Super Sport $9490

YAMAHA

www.yamaha-motor.com.au ROAD YZF-R15 $4299 MT-03 $5799 R3 $6299 R3 SP $6399 YZF-R6 $17,499 MT-07 LA $9999 MT-07 HO $10,699 XSR700 LA $10,999 MT-07 Tracer $12,299 MT-09 $12,299 MT-09 SP $13,999 XSR900 $12,999 MT-09 Tracer $15,499 MT-09 Tracer GT $18,199 Niken $21,999 Niken GT $23,999 MT-10 $18,999 MT-10SP $21,999 YZF-R1 $23,999 YZF-R1M $31,999 FJR1300AE $27,999 CRUISER Virago $6799 V Star 650 Custom $8799 V Star 650A Classic $9299 Star Bolt C-Spec Cafe $8699 Star Bolt R-Spec $11,999 V Star 950 $13,999 XVS1300 Stryker $15,499 ADV TOURING XT250 $6299 Tenere 700 $15,499 Super Tenere $19,999 Super Tenere ESP $21,999 SCOOTER D’elight 125 NMAX 150 Tricity 150 XMAX 300 TMAX 560

$3399 $3999 $5099 $6999 $16,599

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BEARFACED

WINTER IN AMERICA T

HIRTY YEARS OR SO ago, I worked for a while in Fredericksburg, Virginia. I was the editorial and design director of a book called ‘Superbrands’, which catered mainly to the need of major corporations to have something goodlooking and relevant to put out in their reception areas. They would supply some text lauding their brand along with appropriate photos, I would whip the words into shape and try to maximise the impact of the images, and the corporation would leave the resulting coffee-table book out for visitors to admire and appreciate that their host was up there with Coca-Cola, QANTAS and American Express, all of whom featured in the good-looking hardcover.

‘Superbrands’ was a good idea and filled a corporate need very neatly.

The problem in the USA was that someone else had registered the name.

We switched to ‘America’s Greatest Brands’, but while the various corporations approached by our sales force liked the idea of being greatest brands, they didn’t

have the people who could spare the time to put together the text.

I was seconded to the States to help the local writers’ team to compile the words from websites, telephone interviews, brochures and the like.

This was not an unusual job for me; I made a living writing company annual reports for some years, and the work was similar.

Which gets me to the point.

I was staying in the huge hotel that is Homewood Suites by Hilton today (I don’t recall what it was then) just off I95, and working out of my room.

This was a good option; I was working mixed Australian/American hours and I could call room service any time I felt hungry, day or night, or if I needed a whisky sour before hitting the pillow. But I also needed to get out occasionally, just to breathe fresh air, and there was a Border’s across Fall Hill Avenue, a four-lane feeder road, where I could get coffee, or rather ‘coffee’, and read the newspapers.

Now here’s the amazing thing: in my room, courtesy of the Fredericksburg police department, was a card warning me not to try to walk across Fall Hill Avenue.

Effectively, and in careful and wellconsidered language, it told me not to come cryin’ to them if I got run over.

And there was no pedestrian crossing, just as there was no ‘official’ way to walk between the huge stores in the nearby shopping centre. Their parking lots were separated by hedges, and sometimes ditches, and the idea was very definitely to get in your car and drive between them, just as I was supposed to get into my car and drive the two hundred metres to Border’s; even though the whole point was for me to get some fresh air.

This was in January and I stumbled over the frozen stubble of the as-yet-undeveloped bits of

ground to get to the shopping centre or Fall Hill Avenue. It was definitely invigorating, and I probably had nearly as many cups of hot chocolate as I did of coffee at Border’s. By the way, if you try looking this up on Google Maps you’ll find MercedesBenz of Fredericksburg has taken over from the bookshop. I’m glad they weren’t there when I was.

I tried to find a motorcycle rental place in town, but the one I did manage to dig up was closed for the winter. During one freeze-out I realized that this was only sensible.

I had taken a day off and driven out to one of the Civil War battlefields – Virginia has Civil War battlefields like NSW has kangaroos – and was on my way back, when the snow got heavy and the roads became slippery. Very slippery, especially if you were in the typical rear-wheeldrive US pickup truck.

Trucks and cars were doing a weird hula dance on the road, wiggling their bottoms as they tried to find traction. I had a rental Saturn (I do believe) which had front-wheel drive, and having the weight of the engine over the driving wheels made all the difference. I got back to my hotel after slipping through packs of other vehicles, avoiding them as they swerved unwillingly from side to side. Next morning I saw a car upside-down in the gutter between the left and right lanes. My rental bloke – I was returning my Saturn preparatory to returning home – grinned when I told him. He knew the driver, a local high-profile woman.

“She’s always bin kinda keen,” he said.

None of this proves anything at all, really, except that different conditions produce different responses. Bless our American friends; they can do with it. D

112 www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

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BORIS

WORDS BORIS MIHAILOVIC

DOING WRONG I

F YOU’VE DONE NOTHING wrong, you’ve got nothing to worry about” is one of those vapid, mewling expressions that make me want to commit violence upon the slave drooling it.

What’s with that?

You one of those sad, shackled souls whose heart blossoms with love whenever you see a Highway Patrol car in your mirrors?

Were you breast-fed until you were 20? Is that it?

Happily for you, my days of committing acts of violence are mostly over. Not because I no longer can, because I still can. You never quite forget how to punch someone in the throat once you’ve done it for love and money for most of your life. It’s the cameras. Best witnesses of fact ever. Happily, they haven’t yet thought to install them in toilets, so if you’re gonna rock’n’roll…

Anyway, my predilections aside, the fact there are riders who hold to the view the cops are saintly altruists charged with a mission to keep society safe from itself, terrible criminals, communists, aliens, werewolves, and The Plague, is nauseating.

It’s little wonder I wanna bust them in the head with furniture.

Like, how else will they know the error of their views? You can’t reason with a slave mentality. You can only beat a change of mind into it.

The cops, of course, rely on such a mindset. They actively encourage it with their regular dobbing campaigns.

They know full well snitches get stitches, but they encourage them anyway, relying on the cameras to bring the stitches-bringer to trial.

In terms of the Highway Patrol, those cops whom even cops hate, it’s not about catching you doing the wrong thing. The Traffic Act is not the Crimes Act, you know. It’s about catching you doing stuff which you can be fined for. Or have your bike seized and crushed for. Or even get slotted for after paying a massive fine.

It’s all about money – and surely you

know that, even if you touch yourself with glee each time a cop-car appears behind you. You’d be one of those boot-lickers who’s actually keen to get pulled over for a “licence check” just so you can have a chat with the cop, aren’t you? Show him how upright a citizen you are. Maybe thank him for doing his job, hope he has a great day, and wave farewell to him with a wistful tear in your eye when he drives away after telling you to be careful and to ride safely.

In a perfect world, that’s when I would emerge from the scrub behind you with a lump of tree and beat you until your eyes fell out of your head.

Speeding is not wrong.

Speeding is, in fact, one of the rightest things ever if you’re on a motorcycle.

I don’t care what arbitrary revenueraising law was created to make it seem like the sum of all evil, and I never will. And I will speed whenever I think I can get away with it, and I will ride my bike as fast as I can when I feel such a thing needs to be done.

Does this make me a bad person?

I guess that depends on how tight your slave collar is.

I think a bad person is one who strip-searches children, takes bribes, stalks women, promulgates racist and homophobic slurs, lies under oath, beats helpless people, and hides behind a gun and a badge while he does all of that.

I think a bad person is one who doesn’t do such things himself, but has witnessed it being done, but says and does nothing because his job is more important to him than his integrity as a human being.

And I think people who support such behaviour when they state: “If you’ve done nothing wrong, you have nothing to fear” are bad people as well.

They are weak and scared and

they will agree and support anything that promises to address that weakness and fear. They venerate the Demon Safety above all other things, and believe anything is justified in appeasing that demon. Anything.

Me? Well, I’m wired a bit differently.

There doesn’t exist a height high enough for me to piss on these worms from. I guess I’m just not programmed like they are. And it’s not that I despise authority per se.

It’s that I despise mindless dishonesty and hypocrisy from an authority which does not hold itself to the same account to which it holds us.

I cannot support that. And I do not understand how anyone can.

And that’s why I feel that a sound mattock handle upside the chops for those that do support such things is the only way forward.

Hell, don’t you want to have nice things?

I do, and it’s the grovellers who love the taste of police boot-leather are the ones preventing us from having those nice things.

After all, they cannot police a society which no longer wishes to be policed.

Or didn’t you know that? D

114 www.ausmotorcyclist.com.au

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ISSUE #12, VOL 8