Cycle Torque June 2012

JUNE 2012

LAST CHANCE TO

WIN AN APRILIA RS4

CONTENTS

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 2

RIDDEN

REGU LARS

KAWASAKI

2012 SUZUKI

KLZ1000A VERSYS TEST

V-STROM 650 TEST

28

38

2012 APRILIA

2012 PIAGGIOVESPA RANGE LAUNCH

RSV4 R APRC

60

TEST

74

4

NEWS

16

PIT BITS

18

SMALL TORQUE

20

EDITORIAL

22

GUNTRIP

24

RACE TORQUE

26

DIRTY TORQUE

44

BIKE STUFF

54

USED & REVIEWED

68

TORQUE BACK - LETTERS

70

BOOK SHOP – SALE

FEATU RES COVER PHOTOS: BY PATERSON (V-STROM), FOWLER (VERSYS) AND BRP (CAN-AM)

58 2006 SUZUKI RM125

82 DUCATI MULTISTRADA 1200 S TOURING

86 PROJECT ZX-10R

90 QUAD TORQUE

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 3 APRILIA’S NEW

Arriving soon, for more details see your Aprilia dealer or visit

aprilia.com.au

*Offer available until June 30th, 2012 or whilst stock last.

NEWS TORQUE

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 4

Stoner to retire

Aussie MotoGP World Champion, Casey Stoner, will retire from racing after the 2012 season. He made the announcement at a news conference ahead of the French Grand Prix at LeMans.

The 26-year-old racked up his 42nd career victory in Portugal recently and his second consecutive win in two races.

“After a long period of thought and numerous discussions with my wife and family, I have decided to stop competing at the end of the season,” Stoner said.

“After so many years taking part in this sport that I love, and with all the sacrifices that I have had to make, I no longer have the passion to continue and I think that it is best to stop.”

Stoner switched to the factory Repsol Honda squad in 2011, winning the MotoGP title for Honda. It was Stoner’s second title, winning his first in 2007 for Ducati.

Stoner made it clear in interviews he was unhappy with the way MotoGP is currently being run, even down to how Moto2 and Moto3 riders were being treated, saying the MotoGP scene is ‘just a business’ and that riders mean nothing. He also went on to mention he felt he had been ‘stabbed in the back’ on numerous occasions.

While rumours abound that he might race V8 Supercars in Australia after he officially retires from motorcycle racing, he didn’t confirm or deny this rumour in interviews.

“I don’t want to plan for next year at this stage. That’s part of the problem in fact, I just want to relax for a while and enjoy time with my family,” said Stoner.

Stoner’s decision isn’t slowing him down at the moment though, with the Aussie finishing third qualifying second and finishing third at the French GP in atrocious weather conditions.

While Stoner plans to hang up the boots, the French GP heralded the return to the podium for Ducati’s Valentino Rossi. While Stoner says he has lost his passion to race, Rossi still has a point to prove with the Ducati. n

NEWS TORQUE

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 5

HOTEL CALIFORNIA MOTO Guzzi’s ‘CALIFORNIA 90’ Special Edition has arrived in limited numbers Down Under.

The commemorative 1100cc California 90 was produced specifically to celebrate the 90th anniversary of Moto Guzzi, and the first and only shipment has already arrived in Australia.

Featuring a truly unique livery drawn from the original logo design and concepts used for Moto Guzzi back in the early 1930s this motorcycle still remains true to the original design of the California 1100. Although the California 90 remains the same technically, each unit will feature an identification plate positioned above the steering yoke to certify the numbered production of this final edition of the California 1100. Also unique is the colour coded side panniers, tan leather seat accented by the exquisite livery exclusive to this model.

Australia has been allocated just eight California 90s in this one off production run and has a RRP of $24,990 + ORC which is the same price as the MY11 California Vintage, making this model great value and truly a collector’s item.

It’s also worth noting that with the imminent release of the all new California 1400 expected mid 2013, this may well be the very last ever California 1100s to hit our shores. Don’t miss out. n

It’s not where you’re going, It’s how you get there!

NEWS TORQUE

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 6

TAC CHALLENGED BY MOTORCYCLISTS A RECENT press release from the Transport Accident Commission CEO Janet Dore has earned the widespread condemnation of motorcycle riders and rider groups.

Riders are outraged the TAC has publicly presented a negative stereotype of motorcycle riders as being speed-crazed hoons with a predilection for risk taking.

Rob Smith of the Australian Riders’ Division of Motorcycling Australia said “The statistics used have been selectively chosen and represented in a manner that paints a prejudicial picture of a legitimate and vulnerable road user group” “Most riders are normal, law abiding folk who happen to ride a motorcycle. Yet time and time again they are portrayed as being little more than outcasts and a social inconvenience.”

Many riders including Victorian Motorcycle Council Chairman Peter Baulch feel that this press release is the precursor to another planned campaign that will marginalise riders and allow drivers to abdicate responsibility for the safety of vulnerable road user groups that include pedestrians and cyclists.

Rob Salvatore from the Victorian Motorcycle Council said. “Victoria’s motorcyclists have never been safer - consistently demonstrating the nationally lowest (and steadily decreasing) “per registration” fatality rate.

There is also a similar parallel story with respect to a reducing injury rate.

In the recent Parliamentary Inquiry into motorcycle safety, the VMC called for truth and context in the use of statistics - the most recent TAC press release is a perfect demonstration of why this is so important.”

According to the figures made available to the TAC from a recent Victoria Police operation, Operation Cross Roads, riders represented five per

cent (240 v 4767) of the total speeding infringements issued during the operation and just 2.4 per cent of the total infringements.

Some riders commenting on the popular internet forum Netrider, feel that the disproportionate focus on speed is an example of TAC providing a smoke screen for poor driving standards and their own failings.

“If TAC was genuinely concerned about the safety of riders, then they would have issued a press release about the 798 mobile phone offences and the staggering 605 infringements issued for failing to obey a sign or signal.”

Riders groups are united in saying that for the TAC Chief Executive Officer Janet Dore to blatantly capitalise on the self-evident vulnerabilities of a legitimate road user group and thereby avoid the damning results of the Victoria Police operation shows bias and a penchant for sensationalism.

Chairman of the Australian Motorcycle Council, Shaun Lennard, expressed frustration that this seemed to be more of what has been described as “the blame game”.

“At the OECD’s Workshop on Motorcycling Safety held in Norway in 2008, one of the key points coming out was the need to end the blame game and finger pointing. Yet that’s exactly what this statement seems to be.

“We have been very encouraged by moves from the Victorian Government to embrace motorcycling, with things such as the 2009 Powered Two Wheeler strategy. Of course motorcyclists often receive more severe injuries in the event of a crash – that’s why we’re called vulnerable road users.

“But with the number of motorcycle riders in Australia having more than doubled in the past decade, it’s becoming increasingly necessary for road safety authorities to work with riders – not against us.” n

NEWS TORQUE

Yamaha Stars YAMAHA Motor Australia has announced its hospitality package for the 2012 Australian MotoGP. The Yamaha Australian MotoGP VIP Experience and Stars Dinner allows race fans to get close to the riders both on and off the track from 26 to 28 October 2012.

Don’t miss your chance to get behind Jorge Lorenzo and Ben Spies from the Yamaha Racing Team and Cal Crutchlow and Andrea Dovisioso from Yamaha Tech 3 as they tackle one of the world’s best motorcycle circuits.

MotoGP fans can choose the Yamaha MotoGP VIP Experience or the Stars Dinner, or both. The Yamaha MotoGP VIP Experience gets you three days VIP access to Yamaha’s new and improved corporate suite, three days buffet catering, soft drinks included with cash bar facility, Yamaha MotoGP riders’ private autograph sessions (subject to rider availability), indoor plus grandstand seating, GP pitlane walks, closed circuit private LCD television screens plus more.

Price is $799 per person.

Yamaha MotoGP Stars Dinner lets you enjoy an intimate evening with Yamaha’s MotoGP stars over dinner at an undisclosed location (subject to rider availability).

Dinner including soft drinks with cash bar, rider interviews, lucky door prizes (includes pit garage tour), with $140 getting you a seat.

Visit www.yamaha-motor.com.au to download VIP entry form, or email events@yamaha-motor.com.au or call 1300 79 69 79 to book. There are limited spots available so be quick. n

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 7

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NEWS TORQUE

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 8

COOL COMMUTER HONDA’S all-new NC700SA has a real modern edge to it and a punchy 670cc engine. Better still it retails for only $8,490 plus ORC. Powered by an all-new, purpose-built, liquid-cooled, 670cc engine, the NC700SA is all about low and mid range performance with great fuel economy.

The NC700 has a steel diamond frame and 17-inch wheels, with an upright riding position ready to tackle traffic or long distances.

Adding to the bike’s versatility, it even features an internal storage space large enough to hold a full-face helmet, an unusual feature for a full sized motorcycle unless it’s fitted with panniers or a top box.

It’s also fitted with Honda’s Combined Antilock Braking System (C-ABS) as standard.

Manufactured in Australia

by Rideworx T 02 4271 8244 Find what fits your bike at:

www.barkbusters.net

The NC700SA will be available in Australia in two colour options, Magna Red and Pearl Sunbeam White.

See your Honda Dealer for more information. n

TAP EACH PRODUCT ABOVE FOR MORE INFO

NEWS TORQUE

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 9

2012 AMA Supercross Championship wrap Villopoto, Barcia and Tomac are the champs!

450 Class - As per usual we all couldn’t wait for the gate to drop for round one of the championship with Chad Reed, Ryan Villopoto, Ryan Rungey and James Stewart all fit and ready to race for the most sought after number one plate on the planet.

The defending champion Villopoto was definitely the man to beat while Chad was looking strong on the new factory CRF450R and Dungey had a lot to prove on his specially crafted KTM 450 SX-F. Stewart on the other hand was now riding with the JGR Yamaha team, as long a shot as there ever was.

The season could not have started better for race fans. Villopoto won Anaheim 1, Dungey won Pheonix, Chad won Las Angeles with Stewart winning the Oakland round.

Between Anaheim 2 and Daytona Villopoto went on a rampage, while Chad injured himself while battling with RV at Arlington. Predictably Daytona’s mudfest marked Stewart’s second win and his last competitive race for the year.

RV and Dungey were left to fight out the championship until RD crashed and broke his collarbone during a mid-week practice session basically handing the series to Villopoto. But with the championship wrapped up RV crashed hard at Seattle and we won’t see him again till Anaheim 1 in 2013.

JGR’s remaining recruit Davi Milsaps rode strong for the later half of the series to wrap up second place and it is worth mentioning that Chapperall Honda’s Andrew Short returned from injury to win the Seattle round ahead of his good mate Ken Roczen on a KTM 350 SX-F. 250 East – It is an all new era for the Lites class. Mitch Payton’s Pro-Circuit team is no longer the dominant force and Justin Barcia not only defended his Lites East Championship he dead-set dominated the series on his Geico Honda CRF250R. KTM came out with Euro import Ken Roczen while Mitch had Blake Baggett and new signing Daryn Durham lining up to try and take Barcia’s title away from him. The super aggressive Honda pilot had other ideas though, stringing together four straight wins to kick off the championship before winning two of the last five rounds to defend the championship by 45 points over Roczen.

Roczen won one main event as did Durham while dumped Geico pilot Blake Wharton came back with a Suzuki ride and managed to not only win

one round but he also ended the season in third ahead of the PC pairing of Baggett and Durham.

250 West – There were four main event winners in the West series.

Championship winner Eli Tomac won five of the nine rounds on his Geico Honda thus handing Geico a clean sweep of the lites championships.

Pro-Circuit’s Dean Wilson won two rounds but was too inconsistent to be a true contender. He did finish the championship in second just ahead of KTM’s Marvin Musquin who didn’t win a main but was consistent all season.

TLD Honda’s Cole Seeley was right in contention for most of the championship with one main event wins but a big crash in practice with just two round remaining put pay to his assault. The only other main event winner was the ultra-fast Yamaha pilot Ryan Sipes who won the Seattle round to take him to seventh outright, just behind Aussie KTM rider Matt Moss who scored one podium throughout the series. n

NEWS TORQUE

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 10

HARLEY WASHED UP THE SOFTAIL CUSTOM SOMEHOW MADE IT ACROSS THE OCEAN, AND IS HEADED BACK TO BECOME A MUSEUM PIECE.

The owner, Ikuo Yokoyama – who lost three family members during the tsunami – was traced via the bike’s Japanese licence plate and he was ecstatic his bike was found.

“This is unmistakably mine. It’s miraculous,” Yokoyama told Nippon TV when shown photos of the motorcycle.

IMAGINE walking along the beach and finding a Harley-Davidson half buried in the sand.

That’s what Canadian man Peter Mark did while riding along the beach on Graham Island, off British Columbia on April 18.

The bike was swept away in last year’s March 11 Japanese tsunami and travelled over 6000 kilometres before being found.

“You just never know what you’re going to stumble upon when you go for a drive and, lo and behold, you just come across something that’s out of this world,” said Mark, who was riding an all-terrain vehicle on the beach when he found the bike.

Some 20 million tons of debris have been washed up at other places since the disaster, and researchers in Hawaii have developed computer models to forecast debris movement and predict where and when it could come ashore.

The US Coast Guard in early April sunk a deserted Japanese trawler that had appeared off the coast of Alaska more than a year after being set adrift by the tsunami.

There’s some more good news for Yokoyama, the bike will be shipped back to Japan, and Harley-Davidson is keen to be involved with restoring the bike back its former glory. n

NEWS TORQUE DEUS SPECIALS

DEUS Ex Machina build special bikes but until the end of June some of these special bikes are being sold for special prices. Better still you don’t have to wait for it to be built, these babys are sitting on the floor ready for you.

The store is situated at 98-104 Parramatta Rd, Camperdown. Ph. 8594 2800. Buy yourself one, you’ll look cool forever. n

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 11

NEWS TORQUE

New Daytona TRIUMPH’S giant killing Daytona 675 has been given a revamp for 2012.

The Daytona has a new Sulphur Yellow paint scheme, which is underlined with yellow pin stripes on the wheels.

With weight reduction a constant preoccupation with performance riders, the bike’s front mudguard, cockpit infills and exhaust heat shield all get the lightweight carbon fibre treatment.

A quickshifter and billet levers give the bike an even racier look than it already had. This all adds up to $1850 worth of parts and accessories at no extra cost.

The new look 2012 Daytona is available for order now at your local Triumph dealership at the same price as the 2011 Daytona of $13,890 plus ORC. n

CCYYCCLLEE TTOORRQQUUEE JJU UN NEE 2 0 1 2 - 1 2

NEWS TORQUE

A SLIM RIDE

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 13 HARLEY-Davidson’s 2013 Softail Slim is ready to ride at selected dealerships now.

Although the new for 2013 model won’t be available on any scale until July, there are a limited number of bikes available to test ride so if you are keen to sample a Softail Slim then get into your local dealership ASAP. Alternatively you can visit www.harley-davidson.com/en_AU for more info on how to book a test ride. n

NEWS TORQUE KTM diversification

KTM has announced two new models to its Australian lineup, with both bikes going on sale locally in July this year.

Pure traileriders will love the Freeride 350 due its lightweight and rider friendly nature. Overseas reports say the Freeride is perfect for fun trail riding which could well be what a lot of Australian riders are looking for. It will be fully road registrable.

The Indian built Duke 200 is a result of the partnership between Indian motorcycle maker Baja and KTM. Featuring styling and design cues from the larger Duke models the bike will have 17 inch wheels, a trellis frame and room for a pillion.

Bikes like Kawasaki’s Ninja 250, Honda’s CBR150 and Hyosung’s 250 V-twin are proving popular with learner riders after something a bit ‘sporty’, and the KTM Duke 200 should provide a tantalising alternative Contact your local KTM dealer for more information.n

CCYYCCLLEE TTOORRQQUUEE JJU UN NEE 2 0 1 2 - 1 4

Bondi Ural

URAL Australia has another shipment of Russian sidecarequipped bikes arriving shortly.

Included will be the “Retro” variant which plays to the original military outfits style. It features the same 750 boxer engine and drive train the importer claims has proven reliable and durable for Australian roads. The slightly lower seating and ground clearance comes with a new tank shape and Marzocchi forks.

The machine will be available in classic maroon, black or white livery, as well as the olive drab colouring reminiscent of its first outings in the Russian campaign against Germany more than 70 years ago.

The highly visible ‘Bondi’ model is arriving as a Ranger off road version.

It is fitted with fuel jerrycan, sidecar bumper, luggage rack, spare wheel, spotlight, leg guards and other extras to prepare it for outback touring. It can be supplied with Heidenau block pattern tyres for improved wear and dirt traction.

With its burnt yellow bodywork on a flat black frame and wheels it’s sure to find a lot of attention and is unique to the Australian market. There are now twelve different colours for four different Ural models to choose from. More information on the bikes or the Ural Adventure Ride can be sought from Ural Australia on jon@imz-ural.com.au ph.02 6778 7436. n

NEWS TORQUE

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 15

‘Rossi in no-man’s land’ - Doohan FIVE-time world 500cc champion Mick Doohan claims beleaguered Ducati MotoGP rider Valentino Rossi has lost confidence in his bike, and says plucky teammate Nicky Hayden is likely to drive the Ducati GP12’s development into the future as a consequence.

Doohan made his comments as a guest commentator for the Australian broadcaster covering the Spanish Grand Prix MotoGP won by Casey Stoner from Jorge Lorenzo, and prior to Rossi finish seventh to Hayden’s 11th at Estoril the following week.

“Valentino will be hating the position he’s in,” said Doohan, who watched Rossi struggle to finish ninth at Jerez. “He doesn’t have any confidence in the bike, and with nine world championships behind him, he’s not prepared to push the bike and that’s a problem. You can only develop the bike if you push it, and Valentino isn’t doing it, which leaves him in no-man’s land.”

With Rossi in limbo, Doohan said Ducati has no real alternative but to turn to Hayden to help steer the Italian factory out of its MotoGP malaise, remaining winless since the 2010 Australian Grand Prix. Hayden was running as high as third in the early stages at Jerez before tyre issues saw him finish eighth. It was reported that Rossi used aspects of Hayden’s set-up at Jerez for the first time.

“When you look at Nicky Hayden (pictured), he’s making up for lost time going back to when he won the world championship, and he’s pushing as hard as he can to get the most out of the bike. At the moment, he’s out performing Valentino so the factory will be looking at that, and it’s very possible the bike’s development will follow him and not Valentino.”

Rossi took seventh at the following round at Estoril in the Portuguese Grand Prix, and said that his finishing position was the limit of the bike’s current potential. Engine upgrades to soften the GP12 power delivery were expected for future races.

– Darryl Flack

PIT IBITS

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 16

AUSSIE JUNIOR DIRT TRACK CHAMPS MOTORCYCLING Australia (MA) has released the Supplementary Regulations and Entry Form for the 2012 Honda Australian Junior Dirt Track Championship to be held at the Old Bar Roadside Track in Pampoolah, NSW from 6-8 July.

The Supplementary Regulations and Entry Form are available to view and download at the MA website: www.ma.org.au/ suppregs.

Entries close at COB Thursday 21 June 2012.

champion Meghan Rutledge has been invited to compete at the 2012 X Games in Los Angeles USA on June 28 – July 1.

Rutledge has been selected along with nine other athletes to compete in the Moto X Racing – Women’s class on board a KX250F at the world renowned event.

“I’m pumped to be chosen, said Ruttledge”. “This is definitely a stepping stone for me to achieve my goals and dreams. I can’t wait to ride with some of the biggest names in women’s motocross.

I want to give a big thanks to Kawasaki USA (KMC) for supplying me with a KX250F to ride while I’m in the USA.”

AUSSIE ISDE TEAM ANNOUNCED MOTORCYCLING Australia (MA) has announced the Australian Team for the 2012 International Six Day Enduro (ISDE), to be held in Saxony, Germany from 24-29 September.

The following thirteen riders have been selected for the team: Benjamin Burrell, Luka Bussa, Mitcham Harper, Chris Hollis, Glenn Kearney, Daniel Milner, Matthew Phillips, Toby Price, Lachlan Stanford, Josh Strang, Jessica Gardiner, Tanya Hearn, Jemma Wilson.

The Australian Team will be managed by Don Atkins, with Luke De Graaf to serve as Team Assistant and Denise Hore as Jury Delegate.

Further details will be made on the MA website www.ma.org.au in the lead up to the event.

RATTRAY FILLS IN FOR RV FORMER World MX2 Motocross Champion Tyla Rattray will replace Ryan Villopoto and team up with Jake Weimer for the 2012 AMA Motocross Championship aboard a Monster Energy Kawasaki KX450F. “We are excited to welcome Tyla to the team,” said Reid Nordin, Monster Energy Kawasaki Senior Manager. “He has proven to be a contender for a national championship each and every year, and we are confident he can put Kawasaki up front this summer.”

Rattray is excited about the opportunity to race for Monster Energy Kawasaki on the championship proven KX450F. “I’m pumped to race the 450cc class with Monster Energy Kawasaki, I know both the team and the bike can win championships. I couldn’t be more thankful to everyone allowing me to have this opportunity.” n

RUTTLEDGE FOR X GAMES REIGNING Australian Women’s MX

PIT IBITS

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 17

STEWART TO YOSHIMURA SUZUKI JAMES Stewart has dumped the JGR Yamaha YZ450F in favour of the Yoshimura Suzuki RM-Z450 for the 2012 AMA National Motocross Championships and for the 2013 AMA Supercross and Motocross Championships.

AUSTRALIAN SUPERCROSS IS BACK! MOTORCYCLING Australia has officially announced that Yarrive Konksy’s International Entertainment Group will host a four round Australian Supercross Championship from September to October, 2012.

The mid-season change of teams has been the worst kept secret in the industry but all parties did not announce anything concrete until the supercross season was over. “I’m really looking forward to joining the team,” said Stewart. ”It’s been a pleasure to get to test with these guys and meet the team.

I’m very excited – I love the bike – ever since I rode it from day one I knew it was a great opportunity for me to come out and showcase my talent. With Mike Webb as the team manager and Don (Sakakura), the President of Yoshimura Racing – it’s been great what they’ve been doing – the whole team is phenomenal. We’re all excited to get the ball rolling and see what we can do over the next few years. I just want to thank everyone at Yoshimura and American Suzuki for giving me this opportunity.”

The agreement includes the 2012, 2013 and 2014 seasons. “IEG has had previous experience with supercross and can successfully say the 2007/2008 model worked with respects to crowd numbers, participation, affordability and junior development,” Konsky said.

That is exactly what Stewart said when he joined the JGR Yamaha team. Read into that what you will.

BARCIA TO FACTORY HONDA TWO-time AMA Lites Supercross Champion Justin Barcia has signed to race for Team Honda Muscle Milk for the 2013-2014 seasons in the AMA Supercross and Motocross Championships aboard a factoryprepared Honda CRF450R race machine.

“It’s an awesome feeling to sign with Team Honda Muscle Milk,” said Barcia. “It is something that I have dreamed of since being an amateur. I’ve been riding and winning on Hondas for years because it’s the bike I feel best on. I am excited to continue my career with Honda aboard the CRF450R.”

“IEG have a clear intention to establish common goals and objectives with the industry. Our primary focus is to increase attendance and achieve this we need to make it more affordable, accessible and desirable for spectators.”

“It’s early stages and a collective effort from industry, sponsors, and teams is required to ensure supercross continues to grow,” Konsky explained.

“It’s common knowledge that I didn’t agree with everything Global Action Sports (GAS) did, however they didn’t hurt our sport.”

“We will be different, but racing is racing.

We will bring a side show to the events, its important to value add when you consider the number of shows, events, competitions you are competing against every weekend with regards to encouraging a crowd to pick your event over another.”

MA CEO David White is looking forward to working with IEG. “Supercross is an exciting component of Australian Motorcycle Sport and MA is committed to building a strong future for the Championship.” n

• COUNTER-BALANCED 106 CUBIC-INCH (1,731CC) VICTORY FREEDOM V-TWIN - 113 FT-LB TORQUE • 6 SPEED OVERDRIVE TRANSMISSION • MID MOUNTED CONTROLS • DRAG HANDLEBARS • NEW HEADLIGHT NACELLE • CUSTOMISABLE SIDE COVERS • NEW IGNITION COVER • CAST 5 SPOKE WHEELS • 16 INCH TYRES WITH RAISED WHITE LETTERING

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Overseas model shown with optional accessories.

SMALL TORQUE SUZUKI FINANCE SUZUKI if offering a paltry 4.99 per cent interest rate on all new off road bikes, including the DR-Z250, DR-Z400, DR650 and RM-Z450.

Also able to be financed to approved purchasers in this Suzuki Finance low rate offer is a suite of products from Suzuki Insurance along with riding apparel and accessories, subject to normal lending and credit criteria.

For further information on Suzuki’s off road bike range, interested customers should visit their local accredited Suzuki Finance dealer, who can be found through the Dealer Locator on www. suzuki.com.au.

ENGLISH CRUISERS, HOT PRICE TRIUMPH has just announced the ‘ride away’ price of only $14,490 for its America and Speedmaster cruisers. “This price represents amazing value on these bikes” commented Triumph’s Marketing Manager Mal Jarrett. “Both the America and Speedmaster just ‘ooze cool’ and make a great canvas for customers to customize and truly make their own” said Jarrett.

Check both bikes out at your local Triumph dealer.

CUSTOMISE YOUR HD Harley-Davidson is making the thrill of ‘the build’ even easier for customers with the H-D1 Custom Shop. An Australian first, this interactive mobile showroom brings to life the extensive 800+ page catalogue of genuine Harley-Davidson Parts & Accessories.

The ground-breaking experiential trailer will allow motorcycle enthusiasts the opportunity to envisage their dream Harley, with inspiration from more than 300 unpackaged products and a range of innovative, interactive features, some of which are only available in the H-D1 Custom Shop. These include a touch screen for fans to browse Harley-Davidson Parts and Accessories catalogues dating back to 1917 and a second touch screen illustrating the difference Screamin’ Eagle performance enhancements can make to a standard motorcycle’s horsepower and torque.

The H-D1 Custom Shop is visiting major national events, H.O.G. rallies and authorised dealer events throughout the year.

Entry to the H-D1 Custom Shop is free and disabled access is available.

You can view a video of the H-D1 Custom Shop at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tMDFj_ dYzk8.

KTM AUSTRALIA LAUNCH SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNELS KTM motorcycles is getting social with the launch of the KTM Australia Facebook fan page and YouTube channel.

Orange bleeders can get their daily fix through these social channels including up to date race results, new product news, technical and maintenance tips plus training and nutritional tips.

Fans can also join in the conversation and post their own comments, photos and videos.

To kick off the relationship KTM Australia is giving away ten double passes to each of the remaining rounds of the MX Nationals, Australian Motocross Championship.

To enter the draw all you need to do is head to the KTM Australia Facebook fan page, hit the like button and fill out the KTM ‘We Heart MX’ competition entry form. Winners will be notified by email and their double pass sent through the mail.

You can find KTM Australia on Facebook at www.facebook.com/KTMAustralia or on YouTube at www.youtube.com/KTMAustralia. n

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 18

SMALL TORQUE

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 19

SPRUCE UP YOUR CLASSIC BUY a new Moto Guzzi V7 and you’ll get a Sports Touring Pack worth $2,200 for free.

In the pack you get a small tinted sport screen, leather covered hard panniers and a carry rack.

It’s a great package but it’s only available while current stocks last.

Get into your local Moto Guzzi dealer to check out a V7.

X -1 Z IN JA N

FREE ON ROADS SUZUKI is offering free on road costs until the end of June if you buy a new Suzuki GSX-R, GSX1250FA or Hayabusa.

Every new Suzuki GSX-R, GSX1250FA or Hayabusa purchased and delivered from participating Suzuki dealers will come with free 12 months registration, Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance, Government stamp duty, dealer delivery and freight charges.

4

17S ON A VAQUERO? IN LAST month’s Kawasaki Vaquero test we mentioned it had 17-inch wheels. Of course this is not correct, it has 16-inch wheels front and rear, the error being the result of overzealous subbing.

We mention this so Aunty Mal Cherlin’s reputation as a bike tester remains intact. - Ed.

GET A LOW RATE KAWASAKI is offering a low 6.99 per cent interest rate on its fun bike and quad bike range.

Check out your local dealer to see what’s on offer.

A CHAMPION NIGHT HONDA has released tickets to its annual MotoGP Champions Dinner. To be held on October 26, 2012 at Infused Restaurant in Cowes, Phillip Island, Honda expects tickets to sell out faster than ever.

Giving fans the unique opportunity of hearing interviews with Honda’s star riders, guests will also have the possibility of photos and autographs while enjoying a superb three course dinner.

With only limited tickets available, the Champions Dinner will feature appearances by Casey Stoner, Dani Pedrosa, Alvaro Bautista, Stefan Bradl and Michele Pirro.* Master of Ceremonies and special guests for the evening will be Leigh Diffey and Daryl Beattie.

Tickets are $180 per head.

Book online at: www.hondamotorcycles.com.au (Follow the ‘Events/Buy tickets now’ tab).

OUTBACK TOURING THE BMW Touring Club of NSW is holding its annual Far Cairn Rally at Tottenham in central NSW on September 15-16.

There’s a beautiful grassed camping area, with shelter if necessary for presentations and videos on Saturday night. A barbecue will be available on Saturday night, BYO everything else.

Entry $25.00 includes rally badge, and brekky Sunday morning. Rally ‘T’ shirts available.

Rally to raise funds for MARI (Motorcycle Accident Recovery Initiative).

See details on MARI and the Far Cairn Rally, entry forms, & club details at www.bmwtcnsw.org.

VICTORY DEMO DAY BRISAN Motorcycles in Newcastle is holding a Victory test ride day on Saturday June 2.

With over 10 models across the Victory range of Custom Cruiser and Touring you’ll be sure to find something you like. Spaces are limited so book today!

All riders must provide appropriate riding gear, a helmet and an unrestricted motorcycle licence.

Call Brisans on 4940 8777 to book your Victory test ride. n

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EDITORIAL

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 20

ANZAC SPIRIT DID you hear about a number of ANZAC Day dawn service attendees copping parking fines in Sydney?

This isn’t surprising to me and I find it shameful on the part of the authorities. This editorial will probably polarise opinions but when I heard this story on the news it really made my blood boil. This is arguably the most sacred of days to genuine Australians and to have council rangers skulking around dishing out parking fines while people are paying their respects at the Cenotaph is beyond belief.

I did some research into the story and then took a look at many of the comments made by people who had read the story online. As expected there were comments for and against the action taken by the rangers, but while the majority were against the fines, there was a surprisingly high number for it, making comments like, ‘Good! Otherwise every bogan and his mongrel spawn will start heading in every year, as they already do in ridiculous numbers. Catch public transport in, or don’t go at all. My grandad fought as well. Just as everyone else likes to come up with a falsified common reason as to what the ‘Anzacs’ fought for, I’m gonna claim that mine fought for the right to reasonable parking turnover. It’s as good as any made up fairytale.’ That sort of comment shocks me a bit, especially from someone who had family members fighting for Australia.

I’ve taken my children to dawn services over the years, and one memorable one a couple of years ago was at Nobbys Beach in Newcastle.

Getting a park was very hard as hundreds, maybe thousands of people turned up, and sure, there were cars parked on footpaths, in No Parking areas etc. Who cared? No-one nearby complained about illegally parked cars as they walked towards the dawn service. With misty rain falling and the waves crashing it was a stirring moment. After a swim in the ocean we went to see the Australian WW1 flick Beneath Hill 60. A great way to spend ANZAC day.

My children have been taught that ANZAC is a special day, but I accept not everyone thinks the same as me. What is hard to accept is that some faceless knob at the council responsible for the area around Sydney

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 21

Hospital, The Domain and Mrs Macquarie’s Chair thought it would be a good idea to send parking patrol officers out at 4.45am on ANZAC day to book people.

It’s an obvious money grab in my opinion. What’s next, fines for playing two up on ANZAC day?

Talking about family I’m getting excited about doing the Manx GP with my son Alex. We are both heading over to the Isle Of Man this year to check out the event and get as much info as possible and race there next year.

While Alex has his rider’s licence he hasn’t done lots of road riding until lately. One of our strategies is to get him riding as much as possible on the road to increase his road reading skills, something considered just a little bit necessary on the IOM. It’s been fun doing it too, going for rides early on a Sunday morning with friends, stopping for breakfast etc. When we are in the UK this year we will be picking up a couple of bikes and touring up to the North of England to visit friends, then onto the ferry to the IOM where we plan to learn the circuit and explore the island itself. The Isle Of Man is such a beautiful place, we can’t wait and the experience will benefit him for sure. More than anything I like the fact we can enjoy our motorcycle passion together. We’ve even got new pushbikes to try and get fit and Alex is planning on buying himself a new enduro bike to go riding with mates, increase his stamina and also get his head around having the scenery rushing past. We’ve always been close but this is even better I reckon.

The over ’40s among us might remember the TV ad which featured a couch potato called Norm. It encouraged Norm to get out there and have a go. Life Be In It was the catch cry. I reckon there’s a bit in that message.

– Chris Pickett

GUNTRIP

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 22

RUNNING THE NUMBERS TRYING to present statistics in a fashion that means anything to anybody is like wading through quicksand – not only is progress glacially slow, but you’re likely to disappear at any point into a morass of numbers yelling incoherently that you’re experiencing some difficulty. But if you’re looking at numbers affecting motorcycle riders – motorcyclists, as we were once known – there’s a truth that filters quite easily out of this premature intimation of hell – that too many of us are dying before our time.

Things seem to be better than they were, but one fatality, per planet, per year would of course be too many, and according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, 226 of us died during 2008 in Australia alone.

Dipping one cautious toe into the quicksand, I discovered that those 226 died in a country that owned, then, around 600,000 registered motorcycles, giving a fatality rate for the year of about 37 per 100,000 bikes. That compares with, in the USA (and also in 2008), a staggering total of 5312 deaths from a population of about 7.9 million bikes, or 67 per 100,000; and in the UK (2007 figures here) of 588 deaths from a population of about 1.3 million powered two-wheeler devices, or 45 per 100,000 bikes.

There’s precious little comfort to be drawn from the notion that Australia’s number is lower than Britain’s or America’s – that’s still 226 grieving families, most of whom on 1 January would have had little idea of the ugliness coming their way sometime between then and New Year’s Eve. As for the Americans, I’m surprised they’re doing as well as they are, given that helmet use is not universal there (19 states have compulsory helmet use, 28 require helmets for younger riders – up to 17 years in many states, up to 20 in others – and in the other three it’s entirely your own affair).

On the face of it, the Brits seem to have fared very well in recent times. Back in the dark days of 1959, when the Ace Café had neon lights on the outside, and the Triumph Bonneville displaced 649cc and was new to the catalogue

in all its pre-unit splendour, some 1700 riders didn’t make it to the end of the year. At the time, the newspapers would have had you believe much of the carnage took place on the A406, the North Circular Road, over a five-kilometre stretch between Hanger Lane and Neasden Roundabout, where leather-clad (but often unhelmeted) miscreants would take their lives in their hands between Saturday night mugs of tea at the Ace. You can just see it, can’t you … English weather, 1950s tyres, teenage bravado, dirty, narrow, poorly lit urban roads. And legions of youth flinging themselves into telegraph poles and trucks with relentless hysteria.

Or perhaps not. I remember some of these lads and it seems gracious at the very least to concede that they were no more half-witted than the current crop of 20-year-olds, and with notably better taste in music. At the peak of the Ace Café’s infamy, the North Circular was dual carriageway in both directions for much of its length, and many of the lads reserved their fast runs for the south-bound direction as there were fewer turn-offs on that side. Bear in mind too the lesser volume of traffic on the roads 50 years back.

I’m certainly not about to suggest that doing double the posted limit at night in the heart of the biggest city in Europe makes sense, but it does strike me that the reputation of our forebears might have been a touch impugned over the years.

Back to those damned numbers. Yes, about 1700 riders

died on English roads in 1959, compared with some 600 in most recent years. But motorcycle ownership was much higher then than it is now. Believe it or not, the Brits bought 331,000 motorcycles in 1959, compared with 81,000 in 2010. Indeed, 1959 was the high-water mark for Pom motorcycling, with the Austin and Morris Minis sliding into view at the end of August that year and changing things dramatically, and apparently forever.

But we’re still here and you can throw numbers around until the end of time for all the good it’ll do; leave it to the academics, they get paid for it. What matters to you and me, is how we prepare ourselves and how we get the job done. Our cities are increasingly crowded and hostile and today dominated by car drivers who can develop their attitude problems in comfort because they’re surrounded by airbags and crumple zones. You and I have the same leather and fibreglass we’ve always had, plus a little Kevlar, better tyres and stronger brakes. Might not seem like much, but it’s enough for most of us. It’s the kids I worry about.

– Bob Guntrip

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 23

RS4125 Giveaway final PRINT.indd 1

3/19/2012 4:40:32 PM

RACE TORQUE

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 24

TAKE ME HOME ROSSI back with Yamaha? While no contracts have been drawn up, Yamaha racing director Lin Jarvis has not ruled out the nine-time world champion returning to Club Y, a significant change of his steadfast position that has prevailed since Rossi signed with Ducati in August, 2010. In the days after that announcement, Jarvis was the first naysayer to rain on Rossi’s parade when he said Valentino would not be a title threat on the Ducati. Ouch.

Rossi’s split from Yamaha, with whom he vowed to finish his career, was bitter. Jarvis re-signed Jorge Lorenzo to a €14 million contract for 2011, and offered Rossi a piddling €9 million, a €6 million pay cut. Rossi figured that Yamaha was using his six mill’ to ramp up Lorenzo’s contract, and along with being reduced to second-rider status, jumped ship to Ducati for a reported €15 million per season. Rossi, recovering from the badly broken leg he sustained at Mugello, also figured that if he and Jeremy Burgess could turn the underperforming Yamaha M1 into a race winner, they could meld the championship-winning Ducati Desmosedici into a bike of his liking. That was the plan.

The reality has turned into Rossi’s worst nightmare.

Forget about winning races. Right now a podium finish would be like winning a world title for the rider many regard as the greatest of all time.

The tenuous lifeline to Yamaha is full of complexities, the least of which is his frosty relationship with Lorenzo who has said he wouldn’t stand in the way of Rossi making a return. It is has been speculated that Jarvis’s softening to a Rossi return is driven by his ability to attract sponsorship, something the factory

Yamaha team has been without since Fiat left along with Rossi.

Any move back to Yamaha, however, would have to negotiate the considerable permutations bubbling away in both the Yamaha works team and Tech 3 squad. Jorge Lorenzo’s position as Yamaha’s number one rider is rock solid, but not so for team-mate Ben Spies. Former sparring partner Mat Mladin reckoned the new 1000cc MotoGP formula would suit the tall Texan, but Ben has had a diabolical start to the season after being out-gunned by Tech 3 riders Andrea Dovizioso and Cal Crutchlow in the opening three rounds. If Jarvis described Ben’s 2011 season as “disappointing” despite Ben claiming a debut win at Assen, one wonders what Jarvis might be thinking now. Crutchlow has staked his claim to become Britain’s first genuine works MotoGP rider in over 20 years with a very impressive start to the season, but rest assured Dovi will be using of all his GP experience to best Cal by season’s end. Cal or Dovi for Ben in 2013? Who knows. Then there is curious case of Tech 3 Moto2 rider Bradley Smith who is guaranteed a

seat in the Tech 3 MotoGP next year in a deal done last September with team boss Herve Poncharal. So in any event either Cal or Dovi, who are both doing a great job, will have to make way for tenderfoot Smith who is currently lying ninth in the Moto2 standings. When you overlay the Rossi situation with all this, you have to wonder where he could fit in. The plot gets thicker.

The possible window at Yamaha comes just weeks after Carlo Pernat, the current Pramac Ducati sporting director who signed Valentino Rossi to his first GP contract in 1996, said there are no longer any options for the Italian superstar in the MotoGP paddock, adding that he is likely to consider a permanent switch to car racing. Last October, Pernat advised Rossi publicly to pursue a satellite Honda ride through Team LCR but now claims that there is no room for the disgruntled Ducati rider at either Yamaha or Honda.

Indeed, Honda’s most recent statement regarding

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 25 a possible Rossi return to Big Red went like this; ‘Valentino left Honda because he wanted to prove that it was the rider - not the bike - that won races and we believe he should continue on that quest with Ducati...’

Pernat says Rossi must reconcile his position at Ducati first before he contemplates moving on.

“The best thing would be for both Ducati and Valentino to take responsibility, and to do it officially, because it’s the correct thing to do,” Pernat said. “It’s not a winning bike, but it is still decent. Unfortunately this isn’t good enough for Valentino. We’ll see what happens towards the end of the year, or maybe even sooner. It’s a difficult moment, and that’s reflected in his riding. He isn’t riding the bike like he knows how.”

Even if Rossi did secure a satellite ride, it would present its own challenges according to 15-time world champion Giacomo Agostini. “It’s difficult to be a privateer rider because once you are used to factory treatment, it feels like a step backwards,” said Ago, who rode a privateer MV Agusta in 1976. “The manufacturers have resources that a private team can never match, neither during the race weekend, nor in terms of research and development.”

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– Darryl Flack

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“Rossi would need to make a significant investment to start a private team.

For me it was different; I returned to MV after having left [to Yamaha in 1974-75] for purely technical reasons because the two-strokes were more competitive. I had the support of an important sponsor like Marlboro [the same sponsor of Rossi and Ducati] and top engineers. But it still wasn’t an easy undertaking.”

Perhaps the final word should go to Rossi’s long-time crew chief, Jeremy Burgess: “Valentino’s a realist, he knows he’s perhaps not at the level of Casey and Jorge but he certainly believes he can race with the rest of them,” Burgess said at Qatar. “At some point in your life you’re not as good as you once were.

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DIRTY TORQUE

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 26

HAVE WE REACHED THE LIMIT? AFTER more than four decades of following the worldwide motocross and supercross racing scene you would think that I had seen just about everything in this sport. But here we are, only a third of a way through the 2012 season and I have never seen so many injuries to professional riders throughout the world. I have to ask, have we finally reached the limits of what can be done on a motorcycle in the dirt?

Let’s face it, motocross machinery and associated peripheral equipment has only nudged along technology wise over the last decade or so and safety equipment has only made marginal up-grades over the same period, yet riders at the pinnacle of our sport are going faster and faster each year.

That speed can only be generated by a better understanding of what can be done with the set-up of machinery under them, more thorough testing and training programs, superior riding skills and when all is said and done a braver approach to going faster and faster around the track.

bikes who have recently hit the ground in one way or another. And those are the ones we know about… there are bound to be riders who aren’t speaking up about injuries or haven’t been reported on.

These injuries vary from non-paralysing spinal injuries through to concussions and just about every other impact related injury known to every local hospital.

The 2012 AMA Supercross Championship has the most amount of influence on the above injury list. 17 rounds of hard core racing from January to May takes its toll and considering the fact that each rider spends a couple of months testing leading up to round one There is not a well-known professional rider racing right at Anaheim and continues with testing and practice now that hasn’t battled injury over the last season or so between each round the attrition rate is simply part of but right now we have an unprecedented number of the deal. riders that are either coming back from, racing with or And on top of that there is so much at stake for simply not racing thanks to an injury. the riders when at each and every round of the Out right now thanks to injury are the likes of Chad Reed, Ryan Villopoto, Ben Townley, Trey Canard, Zach Osbourne, Max Nagl, Gareth Swanepoel, Billy McKenzie, Kevin Windham, Ryan Marmont, Bryce Vallee, Jeff Alessi, Josh Hill, PJ Larsen, Josh Hansen, Kyle Partridge, Ryan Morais, Cole Seely, Travis Baker and Daryn Durham.

There are a plethora of top names coming back from injury too.

I counted 44 riders that make a living out of racing dirt

championship they push themselves harder against the competition to better their results and when you throw in a little of old fashion testosterone enhanced ‘red mist’ you have dead-set carnage.

The 2012 World Motocross Championship is just a few rounds old but there have already been some huge crashes. Thankfully there’s nothing serious injury wise but that has to be put down as a little luck. Just take a look at Joel Roelant’s crash in Italy as evidence of that.

CHAD REED SEPARATED FROM HIS BIKE WHEN IT KICKED SIDEWAYS WHILE POWERING UP THE FACE OF A JUMP DURING 2011.

The top riders in MX1 and MX2 are simply riding on the edge. I have paid the nominal fee to watch the racing live on the net and watching riders blasting around rut and whoop infested tracks at warp speed with the bike spewing from side to side is entertainment on a budget but as an enthusiast/ex-racer I feel a certain amount of pity for the riders who have to take so many risks just to be competitive.

Right here in our own back yard I see riders pushing themselves to the absolute limit to be competitive

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 27 and that is why you see the likes of Billy McKenzie crashing hard while in contention for the round win at Coonabarabran.

At the opening round of the 2012 Monster Energy MX Nationals at Queensland’s Conondale circuit I was in awe of Ben Townley’s raw speed. I was mesmerised by his ability to take his Honda to its absolute limit.

Everything had to work in perfect unison to get Ben around the circuit that fast. His tyres had to hang on when he needed them to. His brakes had to pull him up just in time for him to make each corner. His suspension had to absorb the hits laps after lap and keep the bike under Townley as he slammed into brake bumps, square edged acceleration bumps and the usual ruts, jumps and g-outs.

To be honest I was kind of nervous for him and once he had a bit of a lead (which didn’t take long) I was even hoping that he would back it off a bit.

Obviously he didn’t listen to my thoughts and won by the proverbial mile.

From my point of view when pushing every aspect of your body and machine to the absolute limit something inevitably has to give. Take a look at Reed’s huge crash during the Millville round of the 2011 AMA Nationals when he flew through the air and luckily landed on the grassy down side of the jump he spewed sideways off.

These modern 250, 350 and 450cc four stokes offer so much drive and traction out of corners so they generate phenomenal speed very quickly which is obviously the desire when you’re racing at the top level. But there has to be a limit to what the tyres and suspension can take before throwing up the white flag.

Is it coincidence the rider that has been the most consistent and continues to win a championship year after year against more powerful machinery is Antonio Cairoli on the KTM 350 SX-F? I know that almost every other top rider in the world has dumped the 350 in favour of the 450 but has any of those riders gone better on the 450?

Dan Reardon definitely hasn’t. Would the racing be boring if the governing bodies restricted the power output or capacity of the machinery in the hope of keeping the top riders safer on the track?

Who knows, perhaps it is all just a big coincidence that so many riders are getting hurt right now but I would rather see all of the top riders on the track on slower bikes than half the riders on high powered factory bikes…

– Darren Smart

Cycle Torque has earned many 5-star reviews of its new iPad® edition, so instead of us telling you how good it is, let’s hear from Cycle Torque readers…

AWESOME APP!!!

by Grapefruithead on Monday, April 02 2012 version 1.0.0

......................................................................................................................................★★★★★ Absolutely the best!! very professional, so clear and crisp. i love the website interaction which enables you to go straight to a website.

I have always grabbed a copy from the nearest motorcycle shop every month for years. Great magazine but with this app, it is in a league of its own. Well done guys AAA+

Absolutely Brilliant App!

by Jarse on Saturday, March 31 2012 version 1.0.0

......................................................................................................................................★★★★★ This is the natural "next step" for the Cycle Torque publication. It's a very professional app, and its presentation sharp. It makes great use of the iPad's features, too.

Well done, and THANK YOU Cycle Torque!!

If your into motorcycles don't hesitate and download now

by Gggaz on Thursday, March 29 2012 version 1.0.0

......................................................................................................................................★★★★★ Cycle torque on the iPad is a stunning app. The app is free and the subscription to the regular issues are also free. I'm a regular reader of the hard copy monthly issue that covers a broad range of motorcycle styles, racing updates and motorcycle tests - not bad for a free magazine. But this app tops it off. Pictures are sharp and detailed, article text is clear and easy to read on an original iPad. Navigation with page changes, accessing new articles or skipping to another section is simple and straightforward. Great app, great mag and great price.

©iPad is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.

CYCLE TORQUE TEST

KAWASAKI KLZ1000A VERSYS

CYCLE TORQUE CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 28

IMITATION

IS THE BEST FORM OF

FLATTERY

TAP FOR MORE

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 29

Comfort and Power.

Mmm, sounds like the Versys 1000.

MORE

CYCLE TORQUE TEST

KAWASAKI KLZ1000A VERSYS

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 30

KAWASAKI’S Versys 1000 is a big-bore all-roads machine – it’ll take you to just about everywhere you can go if there’s a semblance of a road while also being perfectly capable of giving your friends the hurry-up on their sportsbikes.

The Versys 1000 joins its little brother 650 and machines like the V-Strom range from Suzuki, Ducati’s Multistrada and the Crossrunner/Crosstourer Hondas – and even the TDM900 Yamaha - as being road bikes which aren’t scared of a little dirt, but aren’t hard-core Adventure bikes.

It’s a class of bike which makes a lot of sense in Australia, with our crappy bitumen, endless gravel highways and hard-core policing.

Which road?

I feel there is a dividing line between Adventure bikes and all-roaders. This bike, like some others in the segment, runs 17-inch wheels, as opposed to 19 or 21-inch front hoops. The Versys fits neatly into the latter category. It has the ability to traverse almost any real world rally terrain, and a fine dirt rider will take her places most would think twice about, without hesitation. The line in the sand for me is front wheel size.

This bike is a wonderful all-roader, which is in fact how Kawasaki describes it.

Torquey as a twin?

Unlike the twin-pot Versys 650, the 1043cc model gets a four-cylinder motor, a returned version we’ve seen before in the Z1000. The injected mill runs less compression, valve lift and duration, resulting in refined smoothness and prodigious grunt. This engine, combined with its clever engine management system, will surprise and seduce experienced riders.

It’s long been considered four cylinders is too many for an Adventure bike or even an all-roader, but the Versys smashed that theory to bits. “I’ll show you”, I thought as I cruelly tricked down to a shade over 1000rpm in sixth gear. I didn’t pin the throttle, but I did open it in advance of the bike’s progress. To my sheer astonishment, she not only gently surged forward without the slightest protest, but quickly caught up and at 3000rpm laughed at me and smoothly romped to 6000rpm when all the serious fun you shouldn’t be having on an all-rounder is hurtling you toward the horizon!

n TEST BY AUNTY MAL CHERLIN PHOTOS BY ADRIAN FOWLER

The engine is a pearler, truly versatile, very clever, and is simply a ton of fun! If you’re prejudiced toward twins, this bike may just change your mind.

There is a three mode KTRC traction control system which offers great flexibility. In ‘3’ you have maximum intervention, useful for nasty wet and broken road surfaces, combine with the ‘Low Power’ setting where 75 per cent of oomph is available. I deliberately used this setting and learnt the bike before having a bit of a go in the hills. Fantastic, and no real need for more even when ‘trying’. Adopt the ‘Full Power’ setting and hang on! The all rounder becomes a sportsbike and Kawasaki’s tradition is well and truly safe! Use third gear, at 100km/h, instruct the rev counter to attain 9000rpm prior to upchanging and...well...you know! As usual, I couldn’t induce or beat the ABS. The dual four-piston fronts biting 300mm wave rotors, offer exemplary performance. The excellent new generation Bosch ABS system is claimed to be the

LEDGENDARY KAWASKAI NINJA STYLING

TAP FOR MORE

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 31

lightest available. Similarly I didn’t need protecting from wheelies, but the system will allow torque inspired ones, while negating deliberate dip and flip attempts, very clever.

n RIDING GEAR: SHOEI HELMET, IXON JACKET, MATADOR EQUIPMENT GLOVES, DRIRIDER KEVLAR JEANS, ALPINESTARS BOOTS

Real world sportsbike Most of this test was conducted over mixed backroads in the Hunter Valley and Central Tablelands of NSW, fairly typical of countryside Australia: a mix of boring transport sections joining some nice twisty bits with rough, narrow roads and the occasional decent piece of bitumen, but almost no freeway. The variety of terrain had me playing with the suspension settings.

New KYB forks with thin wall construction and two valve technology grace the front while the rear is a monoshock with remote preload selection. Both ends have rebound damping adjustment. There is no steering damper, and you don’t need one. Everything is easily accessible and I went ‘old school’ and reduced spring and increased damping.

All-roaders in general respond well to suspension adjustment, at least partly because they have increased wheel travel, so tweak the settings for better handling. I really like the rear remote preload adjuster fitted to the Versys, because it makes compensating for a passenger or load a tool-free job which takes just seconds.

A solid rack is standard: I was one up on this trip, using throw over saddle bags and my beloved magnetic tack bag hugging the steel 21 litre tank.

It would be pretty easy to add other luggage to make the Versys an even better touring bike.

The package of good quality suspension offering 150mm of travel at each end and almost 120hp on tap made for some spirited riding, despite the rough tar. I’ll take a deep breath and state a good rider on one of these will torture a sportsbike mounted rival on a mountain back road…

Easy on the body

Isn’t it all about the fun?

The bike should have a centrestand, heated grips, and perhaps an enclosed chain. OK, enlosed chains went out with the ark and modern chains do last ages, however this Versys is Mr Versatile. A rally bike, a sports bike, a touring bike, even a commuter, all with clever electronics.

This bike proves there’s room for four-cylinder all-roaders. Just beautiful to use, from tootling along in the rough, or the wet, to the shriveling scream from the 4-1 pipe reminiscent of a superbike cranked into the bends. The demented laughter in my helmet as I hooked another gear was a little evil… who would have thought this ‘tame’ machine could also transform into such a beast?

The riding position is excellent. Cushy sculpted two section seat, upright handlebars and sensible footpegs were a big plus, as was the excellent fuel economy. Take it easy and figures approaching 400km to a tank may be within reach. A handy eco-running icon on the instrument panel helps monitor this riding style. 300km is always attainable! Nice to see a decent fuel tank capacity on a platform like this.

A steel subframe has all the toughness needed to support hard cases and top box, as well as a pillion passenger. The rest of the five piece frame is mostly aluminium and looks very like the two other 1000s in the range. The headlight is excellent in both low and high beam modes, and all the instruments and mode selection controls are pretty easy and simple to use. The screen is adjustable via two knurled knobs and I ran it in the How much did you say? ‘up’ position mostly. Also, the design of the bodywork gives the legs a fair degree of The best, for last. You can acquire “Dr Jeckyl and Mr Hyde”, for a mere $16K plus on roads, and that is a dead set bargain! n protection, and the styling holds a family resemblance to the 650 Versys.

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250R

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 32

1

CYCLE TORQUE TEST

KAWASAKI KLZ1000A VERSYS TAP NUMBERS FOR MORE INFO TAP + TO ENLARGE

1

5

SPECIFICATIONS:

4 2 3

DASH IS EASY TO READ

7

6

n ENGINE TYPE: LIQUID-COOLED INLINE FOUR n CAPACITY: 1043CC n TRANSMISSION: 6-SPEED n FUEL CAPACITY: 21 LITRES n FRAME TYPE: ALLOY n SEAT HEIGHT: 845MM n WEIGHT: 239KG FULL OF FUEL n FRONT SUSPENSION: 43MM USD n REAR SUSPENSION: HORIZONTAL BACKLINK MONOSHOCK n BRAKES: TWIN 4-PISTON FRONT CALIPERS, SINGLE PISTON REAR – ABS EQUIPPED n TYRES: 120/70-17, 180/55-17 n PRICE (RRP): $15,990 + ORC

WWW.CYCLETORQUE.COM.AU/MORE CALL FOR A QUOTE

1800 24 34 64

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 33

2

3

ENGINE IS EASY TO LOVE.

5

SCREEN KEEPS THE WORST OF THE WIND AT BAY.

4

WE GUESS MANY OWNERS WILL DITCH THE ORIGINAL MUFFLER.

6

PILLION SEAT IS REASONABLY COMFORTABLE.

7

FRONT END IS HAPPIER ON THE TAR.

SHOCK ADJUSTMENT IS DEAD EASY.

CYCLE TORQUE TEST

KAWASAKI KLZ1000A VERSYS

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 34

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 35

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Untitled-3 1

2/27/2012 9:33:12 AM

THE WORLD’S FASTEST SIDE-BY-SIDE. The Polaris RANGER RZR XP™ is the machine that no other manufacturer can touch. More horsepower, the fastest acceleration, the lowest centre of gravity and the legendary Polaris ride make this the industry leader. With an 88 Horsepower Polaris ProStar™ 900 DOHC Twin EFI Engine, the 3-Link Trailing Arm IRS with 14” of travel, and On-Demand True All-Wheel Drive, the Polaris RANGER RZR XP™ 900 is not just at the head of its class, it’s in a class by itself.

LIFESTYLE FOR THE 21ST CENTURY Techmount allows you to make full use of all your personal technology, from mobile phones to GPS to mp3s to your GoPro, and to do so in a way that enhances rather than detracts from the overall appearance of your ride.

From mounting brackets, cradles and cases, which can be as simple as handlebar mounts, to stem mounts and fork tube mounts plus model specific mounts, Techmount can help you mount your personal technology on your bike.

Our full range of adjustment not only configures to the widest range of accessories available but its adaptability means it can handle tomorrow’s challenges.

Also if you use Bluetooth connectivity, Techmount is an absolute necessity.

Professional Driver Cody Crocker winning round 2 of the 2012 Australian Rally Challenge. Pictured RZR XP is mechanically standard, modified with CAMS approved cage, doors, seats, roof, nets and other Polaris accessories.

See website for standard RZR XP specs.

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For your nearest dealer call 1300 654 142 or visit www.polarisindustries.com.au

Cycle Torque Polaris RZR XP Ad 275x385mm.indd 1

5/4/2012 7:14:39 PM

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CYCLE TORQUE TEST

2012 SUZUKI V-STROM 650

YE C L2E0T1O2R-Q3 U8 E C Y C L E T O R Q U E J UCN JUNE 2012 - 38

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CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 39

Suzuki’s 2012 V-Strom 650

punches above its weight...

...and

then some.

MORE

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CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 40 CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 40

CYCLE TORQUE TEST

2012 SUZUKI V-STROM 650

SUZUKI’S 2012 V-STROM 650 PUNCHES ABOVE ITS WEIGHT, AND THEN SOME.

n TEST BY CHRIS PICKETT PHOTOS BY NIGEL PATERSON

AFTER riding the new and updated V-Strom 650 we’ve come to the conclusion that it’s perhaps the best value for money motorcycle we’ve ever ridden. Sure there’s lots of cheaper bikes out there, some of them built for an adventure but none offer the same level of real world ability as the V-Strom 650.

There’s a reason why the outgoing model (for $9,990 ride away until stocks last by the way) has proven extremely popular with adventure riders out for big bang for bucks. We bet there’s loads of riders who bought the old model on the ability rather than dollars equation too.

Out with the old The first thing V-Strom diehards will notice is the styling. The older model was never what you would call pretty, and neither is the new one for that matter, but it has been modernised somewhat. Apparently the black bits you see are fibre-reinforced and therefore tougher and easier to repair as well, although most repairs these days are rip and replace.

There’s a reshaped and manually adjustable screen (three position) and the dash offers a bit more info for the adventure rider, like ambient air temperature and average fuel usage. Suzuki loves gear indicators and so do we – The V-Strom has one, and it has even got a road freeze warning which lets you know if the road conditions will be dodgy.

Overall at first glance it looks more modern and has ABS brakes standard but there’s much more to the updated 2012 model than first meets the eye.

The 650cc V-Twin engine is also used in the Gladius and has been around for a number of years now, proving itself extremely reliable. It is fuel injected and for 2012 has a number of updates like low friction pistons and rings and a six speed gearbox with closer ratios and tougher internals. With more lower and

n RIDING GEAR: ALEX – ZEUS HELMET, MOTODRY ADVENTURE JACKET, BULL-IT PANTS, DRIRIDER BOOTS. CHRIS – ZEUS HELMET, TRIUMPH ADVENTURE SUIT, DRIRIDER BOOTS.

mid range power the engine is happy in its adventure role.

Suspension and brakes sound basic on paper, with 43mm forks with spring preload adjustment only. A link type single rear shock has hydraulic preload adjustment and rebound adjustment too, and twin piston calipers are fitted up front on dual 310mm discs.

Wheel sizes are adventure friendly, with a 19 inch unit up front and a 17 inch rear, with 110/80 and 150/70 Bridgestone Trail Wings fitted standard.

Road and trail For riders around the six foot mark we have always found the seat to footpeg distance a bit short, although shorter riders will probably find it near on perfect.

The new model is no different so prior to heading out for our 1000 kilometre

100-130km/h. We couldn’t help but constantly come back to the two things which ‘make’ this bike, its C Yengine C L E and T Osuspension.

R Q U E JIt U NaEpure 20 1 2 -to4 1 was pleasure ride on the road.

Off the beaten track

test journey we slipped on an Airhawk seat to give us some extra height. In fact the standard seat is very comfortable, the height issue is a personal thing.

Straight away we found the suspension beautifully plush and within 10 kilometres from the start we were on dirt roads, with the suspension soaking up pot holes and wooden bridges with ease. On budget bikes usually the first thing you notice is the budget suspension. Not so on the new V-Strom, and after travelling about 80 kilometres of back road to meet up with our travel partners we were very impressed with the bike. It seems narrower than before, has more power and better suspension.

You could cruise at speeds way over the national speed limit, and top speed is somewhere near 180km/h, maybe more. With the Airhawk seat giving us slightly more leg room we found the riding position spot on, and the adjustable screen works amazingly well, even wearing a peaked adventure helmet.

A handy rack comes standard and it has a slip resistant rubber mat fitted. We were able to strap down a big bag over the rack and pillion section of the seat, and still had plenty of room. There’s a some occy strap points which help you tie the whole lot down.

It might be billed as an adventure bike but the baby V-Strom is sure fun in the corners, with the Trailwings giving a decent amount of grip. The only issue is the softish front forks giving the odd wallow or two but this was when we were riding it way beyond the design parameters so that’s probably an unfair criticism.

Touring on the open road is so easy, with the bike loping along with ease at

At one stage we decided to test the bike out on a section of the Bridle Track near Hill End in country NSW. Ruts, erosion banks or corrugated corners, the V-Strom took them all in its stride and there’s enough power to loft the front wheel without much trouble.

As no bash plate comes standard we would want to fit one before we did much more of this type of riding.

Ground clearance doesn’t seem to be a problem, and the hydraulic preload adjustment was so easy to get to it made softening the rear for the dirt trails a simple affair. We didn’t even bother adjusting the forks for the dirt and they never felt like they needed it.

ABS is a feature generally unloved by off-road riders. We purposely engaged the ABS on numerous occasions, in a straight line and in corners and try as we might we couldn’t get the ABS on the bike to do anything crazy but this is not likely to sway the hard core adventure riders who just seem to believe it’s a bad thing. While overall the brakes are fine on the road, they are even better on the dirt. Take away the ABS equation and the brakes have enough bite without too much initial bite which is great for dirt riding. They have good feel too.

A few of the crew rode the bike during the 1000 kays and everyone loved the bike, commenting they were amazed at the ability of the new bike, especially considering its price.

The main high points for each rider were the supple suspension and extremely flexible engine which could lope along in a tall gear, pulling away from very low revs without trouble. Nice one Suzuki.

Verdict Every now and then you ride a smaller capacity bike and ask if you need anything more. The 2012 Suzuki V-Strom 650 is one of those bikes. It’s hard to come up with any real faults other than the seat to footpeg distance, and as said before this is very much a personal thing.

For $10,800 + ORC this has to be one of the best buys now, if not ever. On face value it makes many other adventure bikes look real expensive but of course there’s always more to the story than that. The difference in the stories is only a few pages though. n

CYCLE TORQUE TEST

1

2012 SUZUKI V-STROM 650

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 42

TAP NUMBERS FOR MORE INFO TAP + TO ENLARGE

1

4

2

DASH OFFERS MORE INFO THAN PREVIOUS MODEL.

SPECIFICATIONS:

3

5

n ENGINE TYPE: LIQUID-COOLED V-TWIN n CAPACITY: 654CC n TRANSMISSION: 6-SPEED n FUEL CAPACITY: 20 LITRES n FRAME TYPE: ALLOY n SEAT HEIGHT: 835MM n WET WEIGHT: 214 KG n FRONT SUSPENSION: 43MM TELESCOPIC n REAR SUSPENSION: LINK TYPE MONOSHOCK n BRAKES: TWIN 2-PISTON FRONT CALIPERS, SINGLE PISTON REAR. n TYRES: 110/80-19, 150/70-17 n PRICE (RRP): $10.890 + ORC

WWW.CYCLETORQUE.COM.AU/MORE CALL FOR A QUOTE

1800 24 34 64 MORE

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CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 43

3

2

RACK HAS NON SLIP COVER.

4

650CC V-TWIN DONK IS SMOOTH AND GRUNTY.

5

SCREEN IS MANUALLY ADJUSTABLE.

ABS BRAKES AREN’T SUPERBIKE SPEC BUT THEY WORK WELL IN THIS APPLICATION.

IBIKE STUFF

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 44

ON TRACK

1

RST’s Tractech leather jacket Triple is made from premium cowhide and is double safety stitch seams to all main impact areas.

RST Contour Plus CE approved back protector is standard fitment, and the same armour is placed in shoulder and elbow positions. It has an aerodynamic race hump too.

Colours – Black, White/black, Red/black or Green/black.

Sizes – Euro mens – 46-62 PRICE: $399.95 AVAILABLE FROM: Leading motorcycle stores.

MORE INFO: www.cycletorque. com.au/more

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 45

Experience GSX-R performance at its fastest, lightest and most responsive. The all new Suzuki GSX-R1000 is back and better than ever with Brembo front calipers, super light pistons, upgraded crankcases, 4-into-1 exhaust with titanium muffler, increased power and acceleration with an impressive 2kg reduction in weight. To experience 136kW of pure GSX-R1000 performance, take a test ride today.

suzuki.com.au

IBIKE STUFF

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 46

CLEAN AIR

2

LIBERATE some extra ponies from your engine by fitting a K & N air filter.

The Street Metal Air Intake System is designed to boost performance and add a custom look to your Harley-Davidson motorcycle. These air intake systems replace the stock intake assembly with a custom-built intake system designed to increase horsepower and torque at the rear wheel. They are also designed to provide a long service interval before cleaning is needed.

We know from our experience with a Fat Boy Lo that these air intake systems work as well as the maker says they do.

PRICE: $299.95 AVAILABLE FROM: Good motorcycle stores.

MORE INFO: www.cycletorque.com. au/more

IBIKE STUFF

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 47

STYLE COUNCIL

3

MORE power and a sweeter sound for your motorcycle.

That’s got to be good right?

MC Performance has released stainless steel header pipes for the BMW 800 GS. A sports muffler is also available, and can be purchased separately.

The stainless steel headers come with a 10 year warranty which is hard to beat.

PRICE: Headers $590, Muffler $650. As an introductory offer you can buy both for $980, a saving of $260.

AVAILABLE FROM: Direct from MC Performance.

MORE INFO: www.cycletorque. com.au/more

IBIKE STUFF

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 48

PLASTIC ATTACK

4

GOT a 2012 off road bike which needs new plastics? Maybe you’ve crashed or you want to keep the original stuff looking brand new.

Maybe you just want to stand out from the crowd.

Whatever the reason, Polisport has motocross and enduro plastic kits available for most popular bikes.

The kits include the front number plate, both front and rear fenders, the side panels and the radiator shrouds.

PRICE: $149 AVAILABLE FROM: Leading motorcycle stores.

MORE INFO: www.cycletorque.com. au/more

IBIKE STUFF

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 49

COOL HOODIE

1

THIS hoodie is guaranteed to make you look cool even if you really aren’t.

Triumph’s new McQueen ISDT race hoodie comes in blue only but does come in sizes XS-XXL. PRICE: $129 AVAILABLE FROM: Triumph dealers nationwide.

MORE INFO: www. cycletorque.com.au/more

IBIKE STUFF

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 50

AIRHEAD

2

IS THERE anything worse than Helmet Hair? If you are so afflicted you might like the ‘Airhead’ from Twowheelcool.

The removable silicone liner protects the rider’s hairstyle from being ironed flat inside a motorcycle helmet. It is suitable for all hair types including no-hair, and fits all motorbike helmets.

The airhead is made from a super soft silicone outer, and is non-allergenic, anti-static and anti-bacterial. Given the perspiration that can result from longer rides, the Airhead improves helmet hygiene.

PRICE: $25 AVAILABLE FROM: Direct from Twowheelcool.

MORE INFO: www.cycletorque. com.au/more

IBIKE STUFF

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 51

FLUID MOVEMENT

3

IN THE modern age we video just about everything, and extreme sports enthusiasts are no different.

Cycle Torque has already used the Liquid Image goggles before but now you can get the full HD version.

They look just like a set of MX goggles but have a video camera inside them, and are designed to fit inside most MX helmet openings.

Better still, you can plug the units straight into your TV for full viewing pleasure.

PRICE: $449 AVAILABLE FROM: Go to www.activeoutthere.com.au for your nearest stockist.

MORE INFO: www.cycletorque.com.au/more

IBIKE STUFF

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 52

SLIPPERY PROTECTION

4

NEW in Australia is Ipone, a European brand of oil related products.

Ipone oils and maintenance products are in fact all exclusively dedicated to motorbikes and recreational vehicles.

With more than 150 products in its catalogue, Ipone covers all vehicles (racing, off-road, road, urban, scooters, quad bikes, snowmobiles, jet skis, etc.) and all uses (competition, extreme, intensive, leisure, etc).

PRICE: Varies AVAILABLE FROM: Good motorcycle stores.

MORE INFO: www.cycletorque.com.au/more

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leather, mesh, textile, jackets, pants, gloves

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USED & REVIEWED

SHOW ME THE SHOEI TODD’S been wearing the Shoei VFX-W ‘Crosshair’ helmet for months now and loves it.

Shoei has always been a seen as a premium brand and this doesn’t look like changing anytime soon.

Not only is the fit fantastic but the finish is too.

PRICE: $799.95 AVAILABLE FROM: Good motorcycle stores.

MORE INFO: www.cycletorque.com.au/more

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 54

USED & REVIEWED

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 55

TECH TIME

BACK TO THE FUTURE CYCLE Torque’s Todd Reed has been wearing Fox Future nylons for a few months now. They certainly look to business, and as you would expect from a brand like Fox, they are still looking the business after countless riding sessions.

In adult sizes there’s extra padding on the elbows and double layers on the knees. The important thing is they fit well and look as good as new, even after the flogging we have given them.

Did we mention they look cool as well.

You can get them in most sizes, and colours blue, red or green.

PRICE: Jersey $59.95, pants $189.95 AVAILABLE FROM: Good motorcycle stores.

MORE INFO: www.cycletorque.com.au/more

TODD’S Tech 7 Alpinestars boots have proven to be tough and comfortable.

The boots have a different look to them, almost like a ski boot.

There’s loads of protection for the high risk areas like your ankle and shin, and they are easy to slip on and off.

Simply put they feel great when they are on, which is a bit unusual for MX boots, are flexible when on the bike without losing any of the toughness you expect from Alpinestars.

PRICE: $499.95 AVAILABLE FROM: Good motorcycle stores.

MORE INFO: www.cycletorque.com.au/more

USED & REVIEWED COMFY RACERS Arlen Ness has obviously listened to riders and racers when they designed the Ruben Xaus replica A-Spec Race Boot.

With replaceable toe, heel and calf sliders, plastic armour ventilated leather and rolls of stretch panels, as well as an innovative zip/ velcro and ratchet fastening system, I love these boots. I’ve even had a minor ‘off’ while wearing them and walked away. They are also available in black.

– Nigel Paterson PRICE: $269.95 AVAILABLE FROM: Good motorcycle stores.

MORE INFO: www.cycletorque.com.au/more

OER Q E EJ U E 22 -0 5 16 2 C Y C LCEY C TL OE R QTU JUN 2N 01

Franchise Opportunities Polaris Industries is a NYSE listed corporation – the world’s number one manufacturer of Off-Road Vehicles such as ATVs and Side by Side (SxS) vehicles for military / civilian use.

In Australasia, Polaris has delivered 7 consecutive retail sales records, enviable dealer sales and profit growth. Polaris dealers are well positioned to dominate the burgeoning SxS sport and utility market with a 15 model strong diesel, electric and petrol SxS model lineup.

Polaris is seeking expressions of interest from established retailerss in several areas of Australia and New Zealand.

www.polarisindustries.com.au

For further information Email: Network Development Manager matthew.norris@polarisind.com Ph: + 61 409 411 510

CYCLE TORQUE FEATURE – 2006 SUZUKI RM125 CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 58

SMALL BORE

FUN

Can a five year old two stroke 125 give reliable fun on a budget?

IS IT worth even going out onto a hard-core motocross track on a five-season old 125cc motocrosser when there is a gaggle of 2010 and 2011 250cc, 350cc and 450cc machinery belting around? You betcha says Smarty after an awesome day in the dirt on a $3500 2006 Suzuki RM125.

2006 doesn’t seem like that long ago but in the world of motocross look at what has happened since. Ricky Carmichael retired in 2006, Grant Langston won his final championship in 2007 while Bubba and Reed notched up their first 450 (and only) Outdoor Championships in 2008 and 2009 respectively.

Yamaha brought out its ‘backward’ cylinder 450 in 2009, all manufacturers have fuel

injected motocrossers now and there are only a handful of manufacturers which still make two-stroke MX machines, Yamaha and KTM being the most prominent while Suzuki kept its smokers going until this year.

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 59

So here I am at my good mate and old moto sparring partner Greg Kerwin’s place up in Mackay to have a ride with his talented son Zack on either their KTM 350 or 450 when I spot this dusty old RM in the corner under a horse blanket, covered in straw with chickens hatching eggs between the spokes… well, that may be an exaggeration but it paints the scene for the story.

Greg’s oldest boy Grant was a pretty handy motocrosser back a few years but hadn’t ridden the RM for quite a while so here it was, a little dusty, both tyres near bald and apparently no oil in one fork leg but ready to ride otherwise. This was perfect for Smarty to get back to his two-stroke roots…

The 2006 RM125 was much refined from the previous model with an increase in the diameter of the piston ring knock pin, a narrower reed valve intake passage, a re-shaped exhaust chamber, a new CDI ignition map and a set of Renthal Fatbars.

The Showa suspension was also firmed up to give a better feel and a more realistic setting and adjustment (the standard 2005 was way too soft apparently) so all up the 2006 RM125 had a lot to offer over the 2005 version so this was going to be an interesting ride.

The track we ended up riding at was out at Glendon and local club president ‘Azza’ and his mates did a great job prepping the track. Right away I felt comfy and confident on the RM125. Well, at 87kgs you feel like the 125 can be ridden forever.

Just like the old days, we could and would ride a 125 through a full tank of fuel and although I couldn’t do that exactly, I felt like I could ride it for ages.

Joel Matthew was there on a 2011 RM-Z250, Brad Skoric also there on his KX450F, Zack had his trusty KTM 350 and 450 and there was ‘Azza’s' son Josh on a YZ250 twostroke, so there was the whole motza of moto models to race against and see how the RM125 faired.

Well, I’ll tell you this for nothing (about what I get paid for these tests), the little RM and I gave everyone a fair bit of curry despite the lack of traction and because it was without doubt the slowest bike on the track I had to throw caution to the wind and I reckon if you tried hard enough you could more than likely pick something going through the corners and pull the throttle to the stoppers real early just to like this for around $3000, and the maintenance costs would be minimal compared stop these young punks from blowing by me on the straights. to the current crop of motocross machines.

I've got to tell you I felt like a teenager again and had the best ride I have had for Go on, stop being so lazy, these modern bikes almost ride around by themselves. years. The ‘one-dinga’ just powered on all day, the RM rails berms and ruts really well Empty out your piggy bank and start trawling around ebay or the trading post for and in the air you feel like Pastrana, really confidence inspiring. a 125cc motocrosser, you won’t regret it. And thanks to my old mate Greg, you put I rode and rode and rode until I got a flat tyre but if you talk about value for money some life back into these old bones! you really couldn’t go wrong with something around this vintage in any of the brands – Darren Smart

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 60

2012 PIAGGIO-VESPA Ran g e

Launch CYCLE TORQUE REPORT

I’ll have a short black thanks

IMITATION

IS THE BEST FORM OF

FLATTERY

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CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 61

50cc to 500cc, there’s a

Piaggio or Vespa for you.

MORE

LEDGENDARY KAWASKAI NINJA STYLING 2012 PIAGGIO-VESPA Ran g e

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CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 62 CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 62

n LAUNCH REPORT BY DENNIS PENZO

Launch CYCLE TORQUE REPORT

I’ll have a short black thanks Piaggio, the Italian maker of both the classic Vespa scooters and contemporary Piaggio machines have reached maturity in Australia in terms of being able to cater for a very broad market covering everything from 50cc to 500cc machinery.

This was quite evident at the recent 2012 National dealers conference which coincided with a media gathering to ride some of the new models and see the broad spectrum of tastes that the Piaggio-Vespa brands now cater to.

The other thing which I found extremely interesting was the chance to meet some of the Piaggio and Vespa dealers from around Australia and hear what they had to say about the marques they sell, but more on that later.

First, let’s look at what Vespa is doing for 2012. The range comprises 10 models in 50cc, 125cc, 150cc, 250cc with pricing from $3990 through to the flagship GTV300 model with its iconic front guard-mounted headlight reminiscent of the original 1946 Vespa, weighing in at $9490.

All Vespa models continue to be designed and manufactured in their traditional home of Pontedera in Italy’s Tuscany region.

The range is (pricing doesn’t include on-road costs): LX50 and S50 priced at $3990, LX125ie at $5290, LX150ie at $5990, S150ie $5990, PX150 $5990 (I want one of these!), GTS250ie $6990, GTS300 Super $7990, GTS300 Super Sport $8290, GTV300ie $9490.

However, it’s the Piaggio brand that has experienced the most significant boost with new models being added to fill gaps and provide the most comprehensive range of contemporary scooters available to the Australian market.

Like all major manufacturers, Piaggio has established manufacturing bases around the world to provided competitively priced scooters. Design and quality control is still managed

in Italy and Piaggios available in Australia are sourced both from Italy and other offshore locations.

Here’s the Piaggio model round-up (prices don’t include on-road costs): Zip 50 $1790, Zip 100 $2190, Typhoon 50 $2190, Typhoon 125 $2990, Fly 125 $2790, Fly 150 $2790, New Fly 150ie $3290, Liberty 150ie $3490, X7 300ie $5990, MP3 300ie $8990, MP3 500ie $10,990.

Following on the success of Australia’s number one selling scooter, the Fly 150, the range has been beefed up with new models Typhoon 125 and Liberty 150ie. In the latter half of this year they will be joined by the New Fly 150ie.

The Typhoon is a robust scooter with chunky treaded tyres and sporting a utilitarian styling - sort of a Mad Max with urban chic!

Returning to the Australian market, it remains comfortable and usable for larger riders

250R

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CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 63 and is a tough little hombre. There’s more than new edgy graphics to go with the 149cc four-stroke, two-valve engine with electric start and CVT transmission.

The return of the Liberty 150ie big wheel scooter will satisfy those who seek a comfortable and capable scooter that can handle a few rough roads. Those large diameter wheels will make for a smoother ride if you cop a bit of rough on your commute.

The Liberty now features EFI and larger storage under-seat. The economical 149cc four-stroke, air-cooled, twovalve engine has clear and easy to read analogue speedo with odometer, fuel gauge and digital clock. It also has an engine immobiliser and body mounted security loop if you want the added security of a cable lock.

The New Fly 150ie is due out in July and will also feature EFI, security immobiliser, lower seat height, larger under-seat storage, side-stand and halogen headlight.

At the top end of Piaggio’s lineup is the amazing three-wheels MP3 range starting with the MP3 300 which fits right in to the mid-capacity maxi market.

It’s no wider than a typical two-wheeled maxi but it really comes into its own when the weather is crap. It’s hard to beat the sure-footedness and braking capacity of three discs and two wheels up front in wet and slippery conditions.

The MP3 300 has just had $1000 knocked off the price putting it on a par with most twowheeled maxis.

The mothership of the Piaggio MP3 range is the new MP3 500, previously sold in Australia as the Gilera Fuoco 500 - I remember going to the launch of this machine. It was my first ride on this configuration and I was so impressed with the speed, braking and handling of this machine. It was aptly named Fuoco (Italian for “fire”).

It has come down $1000 in price compared to previous Fuoco models.

At various stages during the day when we press hounds were let loose on as many of the scooters as we could ride, there came opportunities to mix and mingle with dealers from all around Australia who were there for the 2012 National dealer conference.

It was interesting to hear of the very obvious passion these people have for the products they sell.

There seemed, to my mind anyway, a passionate way in which dealers spoke about the Vespa marque in particular and about the way they deflected arguments that had been put to them in the course of their sales encounters with people who criticised pricing.

Yes, these dealers live and work in the real world, and they, more than anyone, understand full well the pressures that their sales teams face from competing products that are much cheaper but also built that way.

Having ridden many of the scooters both at the media launch and on many previous launches I have no doubt that, listening to the passion of the people behind the brands, Piaggio and Vespa have a long and healthy future in Australia. n

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Launch CYCLE TORQUE REPORT

2012 Vespa

Range CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 64

MODEL: Vespa LX50 PRICE: $3990 +ORC

MODEL: Vespa LX125ie PRICE: $5290 +ORC

MODEL: Vespa S50 PRICE: $3990 +ORC

MODEL: Vespa S150ie PRICE: $5990 +ORC

MODEL: Vespa S150ie PRICE: $5990 +ORC

2012 Vespa

Range Launch CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2 012 - 65 CYCLE TORQUE REPORT

MODEL: Vespa PX150 PRICE: $5990 +ORC

MODEL: Vespa GTS300 Super Sport PRICE: $8290 +ORC

MODEL: Vespa GTS250ie PRICE: $6990 +ORC

MODEL: Vespa GTV300ie PRICE: $9490 +ORC

MODEL: Vespa GTV300ie PRICE: $9490 +ORC

MORE

Launch CYCLE TORQUE REPORT

2012 Piaggio Range CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 66 MODEL: Piaggio Typhoon 50 PRICE: $2190 +ORC

MODEL: Piaggio Liberty 150ie PRICE: $3490 +ORC

MODEL: Piaggio Typhoon 125 PRICE: $2990 +ORC

MODEL: Piaggio Fly 125 PRICE: $2790 +ORC

2012 Piaggio CRange Y C L E T O R Q U E J U N E Launch 2012 - 67 CYCLE TORQUE REPORT

MODEL: Piaggio X7 300ie PRICE: $5990 +ORC

MODEL: Piaggio X7 300ie PRICE: $5990 +ORC

MODEL: Piaggio MP3 300ie PRICE: $8990 +ORC

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LETTERS Love the iPad edition

K C A B I G N I TO RQ U

I HAD a look at th Cycle Torque iPad e app over the weeken Sensational work gu d. it looks great - we ys; ll done.

B. Sullivan NEVER, in my 38 years of riding an reading bike mags d I envisage me typi did this out on a tabl ng et computer.

Congratulations ar in order for a moste excellent app. The larger bike mags co take a leaf out of uld notebook, I reckon your I can now get my re. dose of bike news gular reviews, thanks to and this innovative idea.

Martin Taylor SIMPLY, bloody awes I think that as wo ome. gets around, the iPrd app will be the pi ad for future editionsck of Cycle Torque. The vi de o is one of the best features. Keep up great innovative wothe rk.

Paul McWilliam THE iPad version is awesome. Being able to spin the backpack in that ad was great. damn, the future is God here!

Andrew Bespalov THE iPad version is great as sometimes didn’t get into a I store for each issue.

Being interactive links to sites, is with just so easy.

Good work keep it up.

Chris Duryea

iPAD edition is sensational.

Peter Williamson WOW, congratulation the new Cycle Torq s on iPad edition. What ue fantastic concept. a Well done Cycle To rque.

Michael Cross VERY impressed with new iPad edition of the Cycle Torque. Not do you get to see only pics but there’s thmore video too. I especi e love the way you ca ally get access to the n detail shots and in fo on them.

Great job.

P. Newton WHILE the other magazines go on ab their iPad magazineout s they are just a rehashed version of the print edition. you have to pay fo And Your iPad edition r it. better than the ot is and it’s free. Wellhers done Cycle Torque.

Tom Pomeroy

GUYS, fantastic jo your new iPad vers b on I’m from America anion. don’t get your prin d edition but I gues t iPad version is ev s the better. I can’t be en it’s free when manylieve the other ones you of buy are inferior to can yours.

H. Grodski Thanks for the feed on Cycle Torque’s back iPad edition guys. Ed.

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 68

on Friday much about o s d r a e h anyway e v good omen, wy which I’ a H t y ’ e n l s x a O w e t h a urned I DID t realised th h traffic. T c t u s m u j t o I n . , l y i a d good d 13th Apr ooral Rd ha 9am. Beaut B t . u l o a b r a o o a B e s o the wet t left Swan ches after cketts Way t u a B p t t a e w y w , H s s from e c off Pacific some corner ough in pla n r o y d l n l a a s e r d n t a ore corners, bu week. Dirt ut just bef o e h e t m a n C i . r ) e o i l (needed to weather ear if up it. orks often w d a o r uses a bit , 0 f 5 f 6 y, only R D e run o h t stop d Pacific Hw l l O e u e F h t . h o a t l n e so felt a h o Bulahd ly 80 km/h n r Bulahdela o e t t f i a m i t L s u . j n’t get cks Turned itter so do hole 20 cli l w f e a h e t l r f a o c o far so t saw one ongolook, s speed. A lo l o t o u C o b e a r o d f i e o wy just b bit paran e back on H m a C . e n i l Wauchope, off Bago Rd to t a a f f o n r . good or fuel and w, tu f e K e p r o e h t c f u a a W t us ng it do t of fun.

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Oz 4x4 tour

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Darren Hock ing

WRITE A LETTER!

WIN A GREAT PRIZE This month Ando has won a Cargol Turn & Go puncture repair kit.

Available from better bike shops everywhere and there’s a video of one being used on the Cycle Torque website.

Send your letters (and/or great bike pictures) to The Editor, Cycle Torque, PO Box 687 Warners Bay, NSW 2282 or email chris@ cycletorque.com.au

GARAGE PARTY DROWN OUT EVERYONE TRYING TO

TELL YOU WHAT TO DO

WHAT IS A GARAGE PARTY? GET GEARED UP LEARN MOTORCYCLING BASICS EVENT CALENDAR COMPETITION

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CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 69

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This is the story of Troy Bayliss’ life dedicated to racing, the story of a man who has always lived among motorcycles, his racing career and his passion for Ducati. Troy and the bikes from Borgo Panigale, like the 999 and 1098, together made history. This is a book of photography with images accompanied by the words of the rider, fellow Ducatisti friends, colleagues, family and fans all who came in contact with this Superbike legend.

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Bikes have always been Charley Boorman’s first love, but he also enjoys a challenge.

So when the chance comes to travel across three continents ‘by any means’, he jumps right in. Grabbing whatever local transport he can get his hands on, Charley travels from his home town in County Wicklow all the way to Australia - a trip of over 20,000 miles through twenty-five countries.

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This is story of Charley Boorman taking on the Dakar Rally, the toughest desert race in the world. A writer and celebrity taking on the challenge of a 15,000km competitive event was always going to result in an adventure worth reading about. This is the story.

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The Big Yin shares the experiences of the countless travellers who have taken the epic road journey before him. The tales he gathers on the way, from the skyscrapers of Chicago through the Wild West badlands of Oklahoma and Texas, and on to the beaches of the Pacific coast, tell the story of modern America. And they might just inspire a few readers to get on their bikes as well.

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6. THE PREZ

This story is a true account of the birth of outlaw motorcycle clubs in Australia. There was no template for us, it just evolved. It shows our simple creed: loyalty to the club and respect for your brothers. This story is a true account of the birth of outlaw motorcycle clubs in Australia. There was no template for us, it just evolved. It shows our simple creed: loyalty to the club and respect for your brothers.

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7. IVAN MAUGER – THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY

IVAN Mauger is more than the outstanding individual performer in speedway.

He can also point to hugely successful partnerships on and off the track.

His latest ‘best pairs’ partner is award-wining journalist, historian and former promoter Martin Rogers who co-authored Ivan’s eagerly-awaited autobiography.

Martin has written and/or edited 19 sports books and collaborated with other former speedway champions including Barry Briggs, Bruce Penhall and Jason Crump.

RRP $39.99 – NOW ONLY $35.99 8. CROZ LARRIKIN BIKER

I lifted up my cracked UV visor with my thumb. ′Which way does the track go and what′s the lap record?′ I called out over the noise of the valve gear rattling and clanging between my legs. The flag marshal′s eyebrows raised in disbelief. I could see him muttering, ′And who the hell do you think you are - Mike Hailwood?

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Shop online at www.cycletorque.com.au or Call 02 4956 9820 To Order

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1. MOTORCYCLE JOURNEYS THROUGH SOUTHWEST 2/E

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2. HOW TO RESTORE YOUR MOTORCYCLE

The market for used motorcycles is vast and deep, with many popular motorcycles available for a fraction of what they cost when new even a few years ago. With a little hard work and knowhow, a restored used bike can become a reliable and stylish commuter vehicle. How to Restore Your Motorcycle walks you through the process of tearing down an old motorcycle and building it back up again.

RRP $39.99 – NOW ONLY $35.99 3. RACE TECH’S

Based on Thede’s world-famous Race Tech Suspension Seminars, this step-by-step guide shows anyone how to make a bike handle like a pro’s.

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4. SPORTBIKE SUSPENSION TUNING

Sportbike Suspension Tuning’ covers the basics—setting static sag for your weight—as well as more subtle and advanced adjustments, such as how to optimize rear-end squat. A comprehensive discussion on chassis geometry, suspension technology, and the many interactions among adjustments helps demystify suspension tuning. Andrew also explains how to analyze various handling symptoms and make adjustments to correct them. Plus, he offers specific setup techniques for both the street and the track.

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5. HOW TO TUNE AND MODIFY MOTORCYCLE ENGINE

From electronic ignition to electronic fuel injection, slipper clutches to traction control, today’s motorcycles are made up of much more than an engine, frame and two wheels. And just as the bikes themselves have changed, so have the tools with which we tune them. How to Tune and Modify Motorcycle Engine Management Systems addresses all of a modern motorcycle’s engine- control systems and tells you how to get the most out of today’s bikes.

RRP $34.99 – NOW ONLY $29.99

6. ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO DUAL SPORT MOTORCYCLING

Everything you need to buy, ride and enjoy trail and adventure motorcycling. Sections on riding gear, tools, riding tips and safety and maintenance keep you well informed for the trip ahead.

Exploring and navigating are also covered in this comprehensive guide book.

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7. MOTORCYCLING EXCELLENCE SECOND EDITION

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Here is a book for the motorcyclist who wants to do it right-the most complete, authoritative book ever published on safe riding techniques and strategies. Statistics indicate that a substantial percentage of motorcycle accidents involve riders with limited experience and training.

RRP $55 – NOW ONLY $49.95 8. TRIUMPH MOTORCYCLES

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A new look at some of the finest classic bikes ever manufactured. Triumph Motorcycles is a hardcover book focused entirely on Triumph twins and triples. Starting with Edward Turner’s bestknown design, the Speed-Twin, the book moves to the T100, TR5, Thunderbird, TR6, Bonneville and all the rest. The Triumph story doesn’t stop there however. The “new” Triumph corporation, under the guidance of John Bloor, took up the challenge of producing modern motorcycles, many of which are included in this same book.

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9. GEOFF DUKE-THE STYLISH CHAMPION

The winner of six world titles on British and Italian machinery, Geoff Duke was the first post-war superstar. Geoff Duke: The Stylish Champion is a hardcover book running to over 250 pages documenting the riding life of the handsome Brit. Featuring many images of Duke in action, statistics of Duke’s results and lots more, this is the definitive guide to one of the most successful racers motorcycling has ever seen.

RRP $34.95 – NOW ONLY $16.99

10. THE CASTROL SIX HOUR PRODUCTION RACE

For 18 years, the Castrol Six Hour Production Race was the biggest event on the Australian motorcycling calendar. Controversial, important and exciting, the Castrol Six Hour Production Race was one of those rare events which had bikes and tyres developed specifically to win it. This is the definitive story of the race.

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11. ADVENTURE MOTORCYCLE HANDBOOK

Every red-blooded motorcyclist dreams of making the Big Trip. The Adventure Motorcycling Handbook is the comprehensive manual to make that idea a reality.

Timbuktu to Kathmandu or Patagonia to Mongolia--it’s all here.

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Shop online at www.cycletorque.com.au or Call 02 4956 9820 To Order

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In this new, updated edition, motojournalist Marty Berke provides detailed routes to the best scenic, curving roads the great American Southwest has to offer. From Pikes Peak Highway, the Million Dollar Highway, and Route 66, to Bryce, Zion, and Grand Canyon National Parks, unforgettable roads and adventures await those wanting to explore Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah on two wheels.

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12. LOST ON EARTH

“The only way I am coming home is by bike or by box,” Steve Crombie writes when he first hits the road, travelling 90,000kms from Australia to the Arctic Circle via South America. It takes him two years. He suffers from dehydration, starvation and disease. He rebuilds his motorcycle four times. Along the way Steve not only tests his limits but meets the world head on - waking up behind iron bars in Tierra Del Fuego.

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To get the best out of modern motorcycles you need to develop your own performance. This book, written specifically for sportsbike riders, provides you with the tools and techniques to ride faster, safer. Whatever your current riding ability, this book will help you improve.

Forward by Kenny Roberts, softcover, 130pages.

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14. HOW TO RIDE A MOTORCYCLE

A beginner’s manual especially geared to the needs of entry-level riders, this book provides all the basic instruction necessary to become a motorcycle rider. How to Ride a Motorcycle tells the reader how to be a motorcycle rider with a strong emphasis on safety and big-picture strategy.

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15. TWISTING THROTTLE AMERICA

Mike Hyde’s goal was a motorcycle trip - 50 states of America in 60 days, and Twisting Throttle America is the result. This is a classic roadside tale of an ordinary Kiwi bloke doing it alone, on the smell of an oily rag and cholesterol pills.

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When Ducati unleashed Galluzzi’s Monster at the Cologne Show at the end of 1992, few expected it to become Ducati’s most successful model. Dramatically styled, minimalist in stature, yet bristling with innovative engineering, the 900 Monster created a new niche market. A multifaceted machine, the Monster bridged the gap between racetrack oriented sports bikes and cruisers.

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17. MOTORCYCLE JOURNEYS THROUGH EUROPE

Europe is high on everyone’s travel list. It has great roads, beautiful scenery, centuries of history, and is relatively safe. A potential stumbling block for some motorcyclists is the false perception that it costs too much and they don’t know exactly where to go. Toby Ballentine maintains in Motorcycle Journeys Through Europe that you can rent a bike in Europe affordably.

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18. BMW MOTORCYCLE BUYER’S GUIDE

Buying a used BMW is one of the safest bets around… that is, if you know what to look for.

This book will give you that information. You’ll find out what to look for when inspecting and test riding. There’s info on early singles, /5, /6 7 /7 models as well as the more current oilheads and Ks. Tips on the troubles for each models and how to spot careless previous owners are also featured.

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A visual history of two-wheeled motorised transport. Contains around 300 photographs spanning the whole of the 20th Century. From the temperamental vintage machines of the early 1900s, to the motorcycling subcultures of the 1940s Hells Angels, the 1950s Cafe Racers, and the Mods and Rockers of the 1960s, all aspects of the motorcycle are celebrated.

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20. GRAND PRIX MOTORCYCLE RACERS

Until the 1970s, North America was considered a backwater with respect to world championshiplevel motorcycle road racing. European racers viewed American riders as little more than provincial hillbillies who rode around in circles on tracks made of dirt. That all changed when Kenny Roberts exploded onto the Grand Prix racing scene and became the first American to win the world championship in motorcycle road racing’s premier class.

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2. DUCATI 750SS

Although manufactured for only one year, 1974, the Ducati 750 Super Sport was immediately touted as a future classic. It was a pioneer motorcycle - expensive and rare, and produced by Ducati’s race department to celebrate victory in the 1972 Imola 200 Formula 750 race. Owing to its uniqueness and rarity, the 750 SS has become extremely expensive and desirable, fetching prices beyond the most expensive contemporary Ducati; for Ducatisti, it is the Holy Grail.

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3. VESPA SCOOTERS BUYER’S GUIDE

The two stroke Vespa is rightly regarded as an iconic scooter. Its initial purpose was to provide low cost transportation to the masses in the 1950s, but it evolved through the vibrant ‘60s to became a symbol of the burgeoning youth culture, and on into the ‘90s when it became firmly entrenched as an Italian icon.

The history of this phenomenon has been well documented, as has the subculture that surrounds it, but there has been no previous attempt to provide a guide to buying one of these classic scooters.

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4. HARLEY-DAVIDSON BUYER’S GUIDE

Perhaps the greatest appeal of the motorcycles that Harley-Davidson manufactures is that they are not throwaway machines. With proper care and maintenance, a modern Harley can outlive its owner. Most of the Harley-Davidson motorcycles built over the past 25 years are still on the road, which means there are many, used Harley’s bought and sold every day.

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5. 2010 DUCATI MOTOGP & SUPERBIKE

Through words and images we can relive the most exciting moments of the year, the 2007 World Champion Casey Stoner and Noriuki Haga and Michel Fabrizio in the Superbike championship. This emotional year is presented in a collectors edition which symbolises all the prestige of a marque that has written and continues to write some of the most exciting chapters in the history of world motorcycle racing.

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6. CHROME COWGIRL MOTORCYCLE LIFE

A primer for women who ride, or want to, or might simply like to jumpstart their lives, the book addresses women astraddle in a way that’s as funny as it is informative. Whether it’s how to ride, what to do to your bike, or what to wear, Sasha has the advice. What’s more, her bike savvy and street strategies pack powerful lessons, offering a friendly word from the wisecracking on how to get the most out of life’s wild ride.

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Just about everybody in the V-twin motorcycle aftermarket knows Jay Barbieri. Besides being a TV producer for American Thunder on SPEED Channel, Jay is genuinely into motorcycles. What you may not know is that Jay has a very quick wit and a great, though twisted sense of humour. He puts his many years of riding experience and a good dollop of that sense of humour to work in his Biker’s Handbook: Becoming Part of the Motorcycle Culture. If you are new to the two-wheeled lifestyle, do what Jay tells you and you’ll be fine.

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8. MOTORCYCLE JOURNEYS THROUGH THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST

Motorcycle Journeys through the Northwest, 2nd edition, by Bruce Hansen, is an important update to his very popular first edition. Hansen’s enthusiasm for motorcycle exploration comes through in this fullcolor, fully-detailed tribute and guide to the great roads of America’s Northwest. Both visitors to the region and lifetime locals will enjoy and learn from the exciting trips that Hansen has planned and perfected.

This book, designed from top to bottom for motorcyclists, includes: relief maps for each trip, section, and chapter; photocopy-able spreads with detailed maps and directions for easy placement in a tankbag map window; more than 30 great trips that span 5 states and parts of Canada and include the twistiest, most scenic roads the Northwest has to offer; and the best places to eat, sleep, and pitch your tent.

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9. MOTORCYCLE JOURNEYS THROUGH THE ALPS AND BEYOND 4/E

This fourth edition of John Hermann’s classic alpine motorcycle touring guide is the complete resource for any traveller to the high and twisty roads of Europe. Covering more area than any previous edition, Hermann’s fun-to-read text has been thoroughly updated and expanded. New trips to the Pyrenees and the Picos de Europa mountain ranges in Spain have been added, the maps now have mountain relief backgrounds to highlight the topography, and many spectacular new pictures have been added.

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Unappreciated by the world is the fact that in today’s elusive studio of motorcycle design America is a major player - for some, the major player. Dozens of designers, engineers and craftsmen are creating some of the most exciting and innovative motorcycles the world has ever seen - ever dreamed about. This doesn’t just mean “yet another chopper”. It means names like Confederate, Ecosse, Fischer, Roehr, Vectrix (producing an electric sportbike), and MotoCzysz in addition to, and no less worthy in this context, the establishment Harley-Davidson with Buell, Victory, and even Indian. Award-winning author Alan Cathcart visits 25 shops interviews the designers and engineers and rides the motorcycles.

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Shop online at www.cycletorque.com.au or Call 02 4956 9820 To Order

1. AMERICAN DREAM BIKES

CYCLE TORQUE TEST

2012 APRILIA RSV4 R APRC

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SUPERSIZED

supersport

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The

RSV4 R is a

wolf

in wolf’s clothing.

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CYCLE TORQUE TEST

2012 APRILIA RSV4 R APRC

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SUPERSIZED SUPERSPORT

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It looks super fast and it is.

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CYCLE TORQUE TEST

2012 APRILIA RSV4 R APRC

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SUPERSIZED SUPERSPORT The RSV4 R is a wolf in wolf’s clothing. It looks super fast and it is.

THIS story’s heading might give you the wrong idea about Aprilia’s 2012 RSV4 R APRC but I’m willing to throw you off the scent ever so slightly to get my point across. What you get with Aprilia’s second tier 1000cc sportsbike – the ‘Factory’ version is the top of the line – is a large capacity ridiculously fast sportsbike engine housed in a 600cc sized machine, hence the ‘Supersized Supersport’ heading. It has an edginess that sets it apart from the competition and that alone has attracted buyers, let alone the comprehensive electronic package it offers riders.

Racer born APRC stands for Aprilia Performance Ride Control and comes standard on both RSV4 models (the RSV4 R is $22,990, the RSV4 R Factory $29,990), and the RSV4 Tuono also. The system gives the rider traction control with eight settings, wheelie control, launch control and a quick shifter. You’d

argue most road riders would never ride hard enough to use the wheelie and launch control, and maybe even the traction control. Let’s face it, the vast majority of people who ride bikes in the rain with no traction control don’t fall off, so I think to a degree most of these machines so equipped are a bit of overkill, regardless of the brand.

This is not the case for racers though, and a bike fitted with all the bells and whistles like the RSV4 R is a massive bonus. The bike even has a switchable dash mode, so you can select Road or Race, and the dash changes accordingly to display information necessary for that type of riding. For example instead of seeing your speed prominently displayed in Road mode, you’ll get your revs shown if you are in Race mode.

Take the quick shifter for example, it’s a bit of a pain on the road, but on the track it’s fantastic.

This bike really is a race track refugee.

Sachs suspension is fitted front and rear – this seems to be more and more the case on European bikes these days – and both ends are fully adjustable. Sachs also supplied the steering damper.

Brembo calipers are used, four piston radial mounted jobs on the front and a single twin piston unit on the rear which works okay. The front brakes are mind-blowingly effective by the way.

Mechanical majesty For me the brakes and suspension, and even the frame is what you would expect on a 1000cc sportsbike these days. Most sportsbikes I have tested at Cycle Torque over the years has been great. I like some better than others but all of them go like stink, handle well and steer sweetly as far as the standard punter’s talents allow, including me. So the RSV4R does all that but it’s the engine which I love most of all, and perhaps better than any other sportsbike engine I’ve ever sampled, except for the Ducati Desmosedici but that’s fantasyland stuff for most of us.

I love V-Four engines, and that’s what’s in the RSV4 R. It’s a 65 degree unit with trick stuff inside. It’s got the same stuff every other top line sports engine has so no reinventing the wheel on Aprilia’s part but it must be lovingly prepared because it’s got 180hp and it sounds bloody hot. Ride this bike on song and you’ll have tingles all over your body and the single muffler rips out its note. It doesn’t even need an aftermarket pipe I reckon but it would sound even better with one I suppose.

As you expected there’s a six speed ’box with slipper clutch fitted. Top gear is really for high speed stuff only and I never felt the slipper clutch operating, other than a pulse through the lever which is a trait of slipper clutches in general. To be truthful I’m not sure I was riding hard enough on the road to have it kick in with any intensity so...

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n TEST BY CHRIS PICKETT PHOTOS BY ADRIAN FOWLER

Single focus I’m going to gloss over the RSV4 R’s extreme riding position and firm suspension because all bikes of this genre are afflicted with them also. I guess if you are in the market for a machine like this you are not interested in how well the pillion passenger is catered for or how many litres the panniers have so there’s no need to go there. On a crap piece of road it’s no fun. On a sublime piece of road it’s, well, sublime. The engine is flexible so you can hold one gear seemingly for ages because it will pull out of 35km/h corners with minimal revs without snatchiness, and if you are in the ‘right’ gear you’ll be rewarded with such acceleration you’ll be glad you’ve got wheelie control.

It doesn’t seem to matter if it’s a 220km/h sweeper or a 25km/h hairpin, the RSV4 R just does it all with ease.

You’ll run out of talent before the bike does.

Picko’s point of view I love this bike, it’s both raw and refined, but personally I think the type of riding I’m into would negate me from buying one for the road. That’s mainly because of where I live and where I generally ride. If I was a track day punter or a Sunday morning blaster it could well be a different story. In its field the RSV4 R is second to none in my opinion. That doesn’t mean every other sportsbike is behind it but buy one and you will not be disappointed. n

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2012 APRILIA RSV4 R APRC

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TAP NUMBERS FOR MORE INFO TAP + TO ENLARGE

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SACHS FORKS OFFER PLENTY OF FEEL.

SPECIFICATIONS:

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n ENGINE TYPE: LIQUID-COOLED V-FOUR n CAPACITY: 999.6CC n TRANSMISSION: 6-SPEED n FUEL CAPACITY: 17 LITRES n FRAME TYPE: ALLOY TWIN SPAR n SEAT HEIGHT: 845MM

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n WET WEIGHT: 179 KG n FRONT SUSPENSION: 43MM SACHS USD n REAR SUSPENSION: SACHS MONOSHOCK n BRAKES: TWIN 4-PISTON FRONT CALIPERS, SINGLE 2-PISTON REAR. n TYRES: 120/70-17, 190/55-17 n PRICE (RRP): $22,990 + ORC

WWW.CYCLETORQUE.COM.AU/MORE CALL FOR A QUOTE

1800 24 34 64

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SACHS SHOCK IS FULLY ADJUSTABLE.

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BRAKES HAVE LOTS OF INITIAL BITE AND POWER.

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V-FOUR ENGINE IS ONE OF THE BEST AROUND.

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MASSIVE ALLOY SWINGARM DOESN’T HAVE MUCH FLEX.

STANDARD MUFFLER SOUNDS GROUSE.

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CYCLE TORQUE LONG TERMER DUCATI MULTISTRADA 1200 S TOURING

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Try before you buy

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Cycle Torque contributor Dave Mason tries out the Multistrada 1200 for size.

HAVING owned an R 1200 S BMW for the last six years I have decided it’s time for a change. Being a big Ducati fan ( I have had more than you can count on one hand, ranging from a 450 single to a 916 ), the Multistrada 1200 was on my shopping list. Earlier models, though capable, just had too much of the ugly stick in the looks department for my liking, but the new Multistrada 1200 looks real sharp. Like a supermodel with a bad temper though, looks aren’t everything, I needed to try one for myself.

The Oxley and the Bumpy, er, Buckets, Way Our annual ride with a group of friends was coming up. We had traditionally gone to Bendemeer but for a change Uralla was this year’s destination.

I made a phone call to fellow racing buddy Chris at Cycle Torque and was graciously offered their long term Ducati Multistrada 1200 test bike for my opinion.

The Ride Living on the north side of Newcastle, I picked up the group at the south end of Buckets Way. The original plan was Buckets Way, Gloucester, Taree, up the highway to Wauchope then the Oxley to Walcha, with the final sprint up Thunderbolts to Uralla.

Some of the group, worried about the state of the Buckets Way between Gloucester and Taree went strait on up the Pacific Highway to Wauchope.

I was keen to try the Multi on as big a variety of road surfaces as possible so the variations of surface quality on the Buckets Way provided an ideal testing ground for the Multistrada’s electronically adjustable suspension.

Dial it in as you ride This bike is full of the latest and greatest electronics, which can make it daunting to make changes. I was amazed how simple it was to set for your needs, just two parameters to set.

1 – Tell the Öhlins suspension if it’s just you or you plus pillion and/or how much luggage you have. It’s all in pictures on the dash so it’s easy to understand.

2 – Tell the shitload of ponies under you how to behave. There are four settings: Sport, Enduro, Urban and Touring.

With each selection not only is the engine mapping set for the appropriate engine response, together with a matching suspension set-up, but also, in the Multi’s GP bred brain, comes a suitable amount of traction control.

Best of all you can flick to any mode without stopping, just by a brief press of a button which is inset on the LH blinker button to scroll through the options, then hold to select, close the throttle and it’s done. Not only a change of suspension, but a change in engine mapping for appropriate throttle response and MORE

CYCLE TORQUE LONG TERMER DUCATI MULTISTRADA 1200 S TOURING

CYCLE TORQUE E 22 -0 8 14 2 C Y C L E T O R Q U E J U N EJ U 2N 01 traction control. It’s all easy to read and adjust when you know how.

How it went After the huge wet period the normally bad Buckets Way was the worst I have seen it, yet the Multistrada’s tall and compliant suspension soaked it up so well, changing my apprehension of the road condition to ‘Bring it on Buckets, we can handle it’. Touring Mode worked fine for this, then on the much better Oxley, Sport Mode gave a bit stiffer suspension and the gruntiest motor response. In any mode the power is very impressive, with loads of torque from 2000rpm up.

The riding position is upright with big ’bars giving a bit of a ‘Chooky’ feel except you have good wind protection from an adjustable height screen and extra weather protection from the handguards (with built in blinkers) and the front half of the tank that shields your knees.

The long and short of it The seat height is a bit tall and I’m a bit of a short arse so when I stopped I had to choose which foot to have on the ground at any one time. Inevitably in this situation, when I least expected it, the bike decided to have a rest and a lay down.

This occurred when I had stopped for a phone call near Stroud, swapped from one foot to another which then

slipped on gravel. Down I went, but the mega embarrassment gave me mega strength to get the big girl back on its wheels again. I dreaded what damage might have been done to someone else’s bike but there was none.

Outstanding! Handlebars, handguard, footpeg, all worked to protect the bike.

I was extremely impressed, and relieved, because the possible bill could have been costly in a simple fall like this.

Tall people fit too My friend Scott and his wife Sherie, both well into the six foot bracket, tried it out two-up. They found it snug after getting off a Kawasaki GTR1400 but were happy with comfort, power and handling.

In Summary It’s a bit tall but you soon forget this when mobile. The electronics are user friendly, it’s got a comfy riding position and great weather protection. Of course with panniers and a top box there’s loads of storage space. It’s got lots of well tailored grunt too.

Final word I asked a good friend in the Ducati club, Big Al, a long time owner of an earlier model Multi, on his thoughts of the new model. He said, “ I won’t ride one... if I did I’d have to buy one!”

I think he’s right.

– Dave Mason

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GTR1400 to Multistrada YOU could imagine my excitement when I realised there could be a chance to finally throw a leg over a bike that has been on my mind a lot since its release, and to have the commander of war and peace with me for immediate approval was too good an opportunity to pass up. So of course I said Yes Yes Yes. A quick crash course on how to set up the electronic suspension for two and luggage, plus that sport mode please, and away we go.

First thing I notice is I actually fit and it's quite comfortable (but snug) for 6’4” (and let's just say a bit more than 100kg). Leg room is more than adequate for my long legs. The room for my 6’ longer leg pillion also got the nod of approval (again snug for two).

Having the Top Box was a big plus for the pillion's confidence, especially the way I pulled away from the kerb. Being used to a 320kg blimp this definitely accelerated quite briskly in comparison, a quick grab for second and even third to ease the pace down the main street of Uralla.

We head south towards Tamworth for the Kentucky turn-off approximately 12km out of town, and this gives me a chance to settle into the speed limit and get a feel for the screen protection. Height is good (highest position), the wind just tips the top of the visor and over the helmet, little to no buffeting, but not for the shoulders as the screen is quite narrow in comparison to its height.

A quick check of the comprehensive dash (all digital) shows the speed in big digits, doesn’t that make you stick to the speed limit as it's right in your face. The other thing that got my attention a lot was the progressive digital rev counter flickering up and down (only one bar) between 3,500 and 4,000rpm at what I thought felt like a constant 110km/h, but obviously wasn't. Vibes are, I am told, normal Ducati vibes and the engine noise is typical Testastretta, something I would soon forget over the next 50km or so to Walcha, as I played with a fantastic flat torque curve that pulled like a train. That was until I twisted the throttle and realised the power it had on tap which soon got my attention as things started to happen quite quickly.

Steering is quick to say the least (compared to my blimp, which I consider pretty good) as I never really got a chance to set the bike up for that fast sweeper, I was on it and through it before I knew it, tighter corners were a quick wrestle with the ’bars and you’re done and on to the next, look out here it comes.

Downshifts are smooth with a nice clutch lever action and quick blip on the throttle, acceleration is something else, hold your throttle on as the revs rise with ease through 7, 8 and 9 as I glide up through the box, and there is that digital speedo again. Are we going that quick?

We did touch the centrestand down on a left hander which caught me by surprise, as I did not think we were that far over, but a slight hollow mid corner and long suspension travel with our two up weight (not just mine) was a good excuse – you're forgiven Multistrada.

The Multistrada 1200 stops like a superbike, goes like one too. It is an impressive motorcycle.

– Scott Freeman

CYCLE TORQUE LONG TERM ‑ PROJECT ZX-10R

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Bye Bye NINJA

After performing faultlessly the big ZX-10R has a new owner. n PHOTOS BY KEITH MUIR

WHEN opportunities present themselves sometimes you just have to go with it. This is what happened last year when I had the chance to grab an already race prepared Kawasaki ZX-10R from Kawasaki Connection in Cessnock.

The bike was a spare for Kawasaki’s Matt Walters and had seen minimal track time, making it a bargain buy with only around 250 kilometres on the clock, and with all the road gear too.

I raced that bike during the last half of 2011 and the first round of the Formula Xtreme Championship at Eastern Creek this year.

As a recap we were able to evolve the bike during that period, fitting Vortex sprockets and an RK chain, going down from the standard 525 size to 520, the same as the Kawasaki ZX-6R. We also fitted a Two Brothers slip on muffler.

On the handling side of things we found the standard shock too soft for my weight, causing the bike to wheelstand out of way too many corners at Eastern Creek. It looked awesome and was fun but at the same time it was very tiring at race pace and slower than if the front wheel was on the deck.

Brad Fitzgerald from Reliance Motorsport in the Hunter Valley re-valved the original shock, and fitted a Race Tech separator valve which made it substantially better. Then we got the chance to buy a slightly used Ă–hlins TTX shock which was better again.

From there I basically just rode the bike as it was.

The engine was stock and I never bothered to put the bike on the dyno but according to dyno reports from round one of the Australian FX champs our ZX-10R should have had around 172hp at the rear

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The only reason I decided to move the Ninja on was because in my future racing plans there was no place for the ZX-10R, and having it sit in the shed for another six months wasn’t going to see it go up in value.

wheel. One thing I do know is it was an animal to ride at full noise. No other road racing bike I have ever ridden has given me arm pump, and I would regularly have blisters on my hands after a day’s racing. No wonder you see the WSBK boys taping their hands up.

Except for the first meeting on the Ninja I always ran Pirelli Diablo Superbike slicks and as such had to run in the Formula OZ class where there are no tyre rules. I have nothing against any of the other tyres but I had become used to riding on the Pirellis and just like them. During a two-day meet I was able to run one SC2 front for two qualifiers and six races, while I would run an SC1 rear on each day. That’s pretty impressive really, and although faster riders might destroy the tyres quicker I felt I could always count on the Pirellis to be consistent. It was only before I had the shock re-valved that I would start to destroy the rear tyre after a couple of races. It goes to show how important set-up is.

I have decided to race at the Manx GP on the Isle Of Man in 2013 and there are capacity restrictions, meaning I couldn’t race the ZX-10R there. To be honest I’m not that disappointed because the big Ninja was a handful at times with power coming on super strong in the top end reaches of the rev range, something I don’t need at the Isle Of Man, especially for my first trip there. To give you an idea of the power, at the first 2012 round of the FX series at Eastern Creek I had the biggest moment ever without actually crashing. Coming out of Turn 12 I was behind Aaron Gobert and got onto the power nice and early. The rear started to slide but I thought I could hold it there. The bike had other ideas of course, letting go with such ferocity it threw me out of the seat and banged my head into the screen.

By the time I sort of gained control I was heading for the grass. Somehow I managed to stay on but it was a sphincter puckering moment to say the least. I continued the race but I was a bit shyer with the throttle. I didn’t think much of it at the time but later I wondered if somehow I had turned the traction control off. No, it was still on level one, which is the least intrusive, so

it goes to show that even the ZX-10R’s traction control can’t save you if you get too throttle happy. Speed trap times had me at over 270 km/h, one time even being clocked at 282 km/h. This could have been a timing anomaly or maybe I just manned up and went harder for that one lap, who knows?

I put the ZX-10R up for sale on the Formula Xtreme website and it sold within two weeks. Seriously if you want to buy or sell a race bike that’s the first place you should look, and it’s free.

I looked at a number of different bikes I wanted to ride first here in Australia and then on the Isle Of Man. I hadn’t planned to buy another bike until later in the year but then one of those opportunities I was speaking about earlier came up and I just had to grab it. I was told of a crash damaged 2009 Ducati 848 that was a statutory write off with minimal damage. The bike has low kilometres and really is slightly damaged, so after about an hour’s deliberation the decision was made to buy the bike. It’s now at Cycle Torque HQ. Our next job is to race prepare it and do some racing. There are other possible opportunities regarding bikes for me to race at the Isle Of Man but nothing

is confirmed yet. I see the 848 as my backup plan. It will be fun to race in Australia and if a better opportunity doesn’t present itself then the 848 and I will be cracking some laps at the Manx.

Stay tuned to see us transform it from a crashed roadie to a slick racer.

– Alex Pickett

QUAD TORQUE

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CAN-AM’S OUTLANDER ATVS ARE VERY POWERFUL BUT THEY ALSO HAVE THE CHASSIS TO MATCH. BOMBARDIER Recreational Products (BRP) has produced the most powerful Sport-Utility ATVs on the market with Can-Am’s 82hp Outlander 1000 XT and the 71hp Outlander 800R XT so if you have the desire for a ride that offers speed, handling and a plethora of usable features, these models should be on your shopping list!

The Outlander 1000 XT features the Rotax V-Twin motor with liquid cooled 80 degree cylinders, 91 x 75mm bore and stroke, four valve SOHC heads and all 976cc is fed by dual 46mm Siemens fuel injectors which are in turn filtered by an all new air box which sits much higher in the chassis than in previous years.

The transition from the potent motor to all four wheels is through a CVT transmission which offers high and low range as well as the obligatory reverse. The 800R motor is identical except for the 91 x 62mm bore and stroke.

The adjustable front shock absorbers offer 229mm of travel using a double A-arm system which features Can-Am’s “anti-dive-control geometry” for a more positive feel Because of the amount of power on tap Can-Am offers a secondary key position that retards the ignition timing thus reducing the power for people who have limited or no when cornering and braking. experience on ATVs. Speaking of brakes, both front brakes (one in each wheel) and the rear brake (right wheel only) use a 214mm perforated disc which are clamped onto by dual-piston You can’t just bolt in a faster motor and expect the chassis to co-operate so Can-Am calipers which I found worked quite well. designed and manufactured the second generation Surrounding Spar Technology (SST G2) chassis with fewer components to weld together which in turn offers The XT package features the new Tri-Mode Dynamic Power Steering (DPS) which increased strength and for the rider a lower centre of gravity and better handling. allows the rider to choose between minimum, medium and maximum levels of steering assistance while the new ‘quicker engaging’ Visco-Lok QE front differential So how does Can-Am suspend and pull up a pair of beasts that weigh in at 339kg replaces the Visco-Lok front differential found on the base model Outlanders. and 331kg respectively? The rear suspension is a Torsional Trailing-Arm Independent (TTI) system with a removable sway bar, revised pivot points and adjustable shock ‘Other’ features for 2012 are the cast aluminium wheels, ‘Pure Magnesium Metallic’ absorbers which allows the rear wheels to move directly up and down (instead of the painted bodywork, heavy duty front and rear bumpers, new polyurethane skid tradition butterfly effect) giving the Outlander a very stable feel as the suspension plate, hand guards, 650W magneto, new 21.4 petrol tank, 590kg towing capacity, moves through its 236mm of travel.

3000-pound WARN RT30 winch, 21 litres of under rack storage, and all new reinforced

CYCLE TORQUE JUNE 2012 - 93

composite cargo racks with 45kg limit on the front and 90kg limit on the rear.

And finally, before we get to the riding part I have to mention the multi-function digital LCD instrument gauge which feature the speedometer, tachometer (bar graph RPM, bottom bar numerical RPM), odometer, trip and hour meters, diagnostic centre, gear position, engine hour meter, 4x4 indicator, temperature and engine lights, fuel gauge, clock, auto shut-off after 15 minutes, prewired for winch and a DC outlet.

Sorry about all of the above but BRP have put so much work into these new models I would feel guilty not to mention all of the changes that, by all intents and purposes, should give the general public the ultimate sports/utility ATV. Well, I will tell you this for nothing (this is a free magazine remember), my first outing on the 1000 XT left me gob smacked. I obviously wanted to see if it would actually wheelstand under power and yes, it did. The motor has everything you would expect and more and if it wasn’t for all of the changes the chassis, steering and suspension wise I would dare say there would be too much power. Obviously the 800R feels exactly the same but with a more, dare I say it, manageable power delivery.

The courses we got to ride each model on was very diverse with deep water crossings, steep hills and banks, wide rock infested creek beds and fast open trails so we got a real taste of what most riders would come across during a day’s work or fun ride and I have to say I was impressed with the overall stability of the new chassis/suspension set-up. Brakes were adequate for the job at hand and the ergonomics felt really comfortable in either the sitting or standing positions.

I went from impressed to extremely confident in no time and I dare say this is the trap

when you are riding something so ‘capable’. You feel bullet proof as you dive into water crossings or bashing through the bush…the suspension just soaks everything up and the power delivery and power steering work hand in hand when direction change is necessary.

Another model worth mentioning that has the same motor, chassis and brake combination is the Renegade 1000 X xc. Strip the Outlander of all of the storage and racks, throw on four very trick FOX Podium Piggyback shocks, aluminium Beadlock wheels, aluminium skid plate and pro-taper bars with some sporty mudguards and you have a more sport orientated ATV that goes like a cut cat and handles like a gokart.

In short, all three models are an absolute blast! You just have to appreciate the commitment BRP has put into these new models with almost every aspect of the ATV thought through and in their own way improved.

At around $17,600 for the 1000 XT/1000X and $16,500 for the 800R XT you couldn’t really complain considering what is on offer for both of these models. What I can tell you is this, if I ever get into either bush bashing or farming on four wheels, my local Can-Am dealership will be getting a visit.

– Darren Smart

N ext Month i n

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