Cycle Torque August 2009

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AUDIT

Audited 41,937

TRIUMPH DAYTONA 675

THE

SPORTINGLIFE KTM RC8R MORE SPORT: KAWASAKI KFX450R YAMAHA WR450F KAWASAKI NINJA 250R GET YOUR MOTORCYCLE BOOKS AT JULY 2009 - 1 CYCLE TORQUE

AUGUST 2009

Contents 22

46

TEST

TEST

TRIUMPH 675

KTM RC8 R

30

51

TEST

TEST

KAWASAKI KFX450

YAMAHA WR450F

43 TEST

KAWASAKI NINJA 250 features 18-19

BOOK SALES

28 E-Torque 30 Quad Torque 40

Hydrogen Powered REGULARS

3-12 News 26

LETTERS

36

14

bike stuff

37 race torque

16

USED & REVIEWED

38

major events

54

WileyX PHOTO COMP

34 EDITORIAL 35

guntrip

DIRTY torque

Cycle Torque: 02 4956 9820 Full details page 26 Cover: Daytona by Pickett, RC8 R by Paterson

Norton 961 Soon?

IT MAY have had a long lead time but the new Norton 961 looks set to be available in Australia from as soon as December.

Much of the tooling from the stillborn Kenny Dreer Norton Commando project has been bought by UK entrepreneur and CEO of the new Norton Motorcycles venture, Stuart Garner.

Garner has also reintroduced the Norton Rotary project to run side-by-side with the 961.

Enthusiasts all around the world have been waiting in anticipation for the new 961 but it seemed the bike would never be available to the mainstream rider.

A quick look at some of the specifications reveal the 961 should be loads of fun on the road.

The engine retains push rod valve actuation and two-valves per cylinder to produce 80 rear wheel horsepower at 6,500rpm and 65 foot pounds of torque at 5,200rpm. Twin 39mm Keihin FCR carbs fire the fuel into the cylinders and lubrication is via a dry sump set up.

Suspension and brakes are all top level equipment, with Brembo providing the stoppers and Ohlins doing likewise for the forks and shocks.

Frame is a chrome-moly steel unit with an alloy chassis and the SE model (which will be released first) has carbon fibre wheels.

Fuel tank capacity is 17 litres and all up dry weight is quoted as 188kg.

200 of the SE models will be released first, with a standard version coming out later in 2010.

It looks awesome and if the YouTube videos are anything to go by, goes and sounds great too.

Cycle Torque knows of one person who’s actually contacted the factory to put his money down and it seems the factory is currently looking for distributors in Australia.

But at around $35,000 – according to UK prices and the current exchange rate – it might be a little steep for Aussie buyers.

If Norton expects to sell the 961 in any numbers it should seriously look at sharpening its pencil. It would be a massive shame to see the price kill the bike before it even gets off the ground.

You can get more info and even put your name down for a bike at www.nortonmotorcycles.com. n

NEWS torque

Reversed head YZF?

YAMAHA is taking off road motorcycles to a new level. This spy pic reveals Yamaha is planning to release an all new YZ450F for 2010.

The big thing is the engine will be turned around, with the exhaust pipe exiting straight back from the reverse cylinder head and the fuel injection facing forward for better access to fresh air.

There looks to be a heap of other changes, including a new rear subframe and front chassis design.

It isn’t the first time Yamaha has tried this technology, with the TZ GP bikes utilising this basic design many years ago. Other niche off-road manufacturers have dabbled with it also but Yamaha will be the first to try it on such a large scale.

The jury is out on whether there’s other design benefits or if it’s mainly for marketing, but Yamaha is holding the Australian launch just after we go to press so we’ll see if all the hype is real. n

New dirty Kwakas HERE’S a first look at the 2010 Kawasaki KX450F and KX250F MX racers.

The ’09 race bikes have certainly had plenty of success on the national and world scenes and there’s no doubt information learned from racing the 2009 models has been brought over to the 2010 jiggers we get to buy and ride.

The 450 has essentially an unchanged engine – except for a trick piston – but has a host of other updates including suspension, adjustable ECU and chassis.

We aren’t privvy to prices or release dates as yet but keep an eye out for these bikes, the Kawasaki’s have been performing very well and the 2010 models can only be better. n

Changes for the 2010 KX250F include new Showa twinchamber forks, engine updates and revised suspension.

Dob in a bikie

THE Western Australian government is promoting the tax-payer funded ‘Phone in a bikie’ campaign.

Citizens are urged to keep an eye on who bikies are drinking with, where you see them and even who they are talking too, then take registration details and the like and forward them

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on the government via a phone hot line.

It’s one thing to see legitimate outlaw bikie gangs being targeted but you have to wonder how many individuals or law abiding groups actually get caught up in the web with this sort of paranoia being spread out by the

powers that be.

It’s one thing to have Police intelligence on you if you are a criminal – too bad, so sad, but totally inappropriate if you are a 50 year old laywer who likes wearing leathers and an open faced helmet when he rides his cruiser. n

NEWS torque

2010 RM-Z

SUZUKI has revealed its all-new 2010 model year RM-Z250.

This will become the first production 250cc motocrosser with fuel injection.

“Fuel-injection technology has revolutionised motocross racing following its introduction on the Suzuki RM-Z450 two years ago,” Suzuki’s Perry Morison said.

“Now, Suzuki is set to lead the pack again with the all-new 2010 RM-Z250, the first production motocrosser in its class with a fuel injected engine.

“Adding that technology to the championship-winning Suzuki RM-Z250 with other developments across the board in an all-new model will make it a formidable racing opponent.”

Besides the fuel injection, there’s a range of other updates to the bike for 2010.

There’s revised porting and cam timing for increased top end performance.

The bottom end of the engine hasn’t lucked out though, the crank and rod are stronger also.

Of course the suspension, chassis and plastics have been updated too, but the big selling point for the new RM-Z is the 43mm throttle body fuel injection system.

At this stage there’s no news on price but expect it to be competitive with the competition. Stocks are expected in dealers in October. n

Local Talent at 2009 AGP AUSTRALIAN bike racing fans will again get to see local talent at the upcoming Australian round of the MotoGP championship at Phillip Island during October 16-18.

Incorporated into the MotoGP event will be rounds for the Superbike and Supersport classes of the Woodstock ASBK championship.

Also back for 2009 is the increasingly popular Australian Historic class, together with the Legends of MotoGP display.

“For the first time ever the Aussie Superbikes and Supersports will be racing for championship points at the Australian Grand Prix,” Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Grand Prix Corporation, Drew Ward said.

“Australian World Champions Mick Doohan, Wayne Gardner and Troy Bayliss all launched their careers in Australian Superbikes before moving onto the world stage.”

The Superbikes will again race on

Rob Phillis leads the historic Superbike pack at Phillip Island. (Pic K Muir.) all three days of the event including Sunday prior to the main race - an initiative introduced in 2008 giving our home-grown heroes the chance to race in front of tens of thousands of people.

Having made its debut last year, the Australian Historic class will return to Phillip Island in 2009.The category features some of the World’s most spectacular bikes from yesteryear

including the high-handlebar, unfaired Superbikes of the 1970s and ’80s.

“The Australian Historics proved to be a crowd pleaser in 2008 and we are thrilled to welcome them back in 2009. Together with the Legends of MotoGP display, the Superbikes and Supersports, the Australian Historics complete a fantastic line-up of events,” Mr Ward said. n

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NEWS torque

Online Duke DUCATI fans can now buy gear online direct from the national importer.

There’s a full range of mens, ladies and children’s gear, from T-shirts to glasses and leather jackets.

For a limited time Ducati is offering free postage with orders over $200.

Go to www.store.ducati.com.au to check out what’s available.

Ducati is also kitting out its GT1000 for touring, with a tall screen, rack and a few other goodies to make covering big miles just that bit easier.

Ducati is doing good deals on the bike and the touring accessories so head into your local dealer for a taste of Ducati touring. n

Tri-colour Hondas

HONDA has introduced two new colour options to its fuel injected LAMS CB400 range.

Both are variations of the colour schemes from years ago but they work equally well today. n

Naked BMW F 800

THE F 800 S and ST models from BMW Motorrad are about to be joined by an unfaired version, the F 800 R. “We are ecstatic to be able to bring the F 800 R to market this year, which will certainly assist in continuing our strong sales position”, said BMW Motorrad’s General manager, Cameron Cuthill.

“Gauging by the early interest in the F 800 R, this urban and sporting style of riding is sure to appeal not only to existing BMW customers but also to those that may not have considered a BMW before,” continued Cuthill.

The F 800 series has been pretty popular, and the new ‘R’ version, which has looks heavily based on the K 1300 R, should also be popular.

Weighing 182kg and using the same 800cc parallel twin engine as the rest of the range the ‘R’ should provide plenty of naked fun. n

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Motorcycle Wholesale

FORMER 500 GP racer Mark Willis has just kicked off a new website for registered motorcycle dealers to purchase and sell new or second hand stock.

Mark is offering a free six-month trial to the first 100 dealers to register.

“Dealers can search the password protected site for a particular bike that one of their customers may be chasing that they don’t have in stock,” said Mark. “Instead of turning the customer away, it creates a potential sale”.

“Having owned a motorcycle dealership, I understand the importance of being able to turn stock into cash quickly, and meeting the needs and expectations of customers.

“We have been able to negotiate attractive rates with several of the leading motorcycle freight companies to help take the hassle out of organising the transportation of the motorcycle.

“I hope this website helps as many dealers as possible to increase their sales and cashflow, and keep their customers happy - the three things that are paramount in any successful motorcycle dealership.”

Interested dealers can register online at www. motorcyclewholesale.com.au. n

NEWS torque

Crusty gets bigger

Law changes A NUMBER of changes to licensing laws in NSW and Queensland came into effect on July 1.

Queensland introduced its own Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) and NSW has reduced fines and demerit point penalties for minor speeding offences, while more serious speeding offences, such as Over 45km/h will see greater penalties introduced.

CRUSTY Demons holds shows to sell out crowds all around the world. But the owners of the brand have decided to go it alone, creating a new tour entitiy known as Crusty Demons Tour Holdings.

What’s this mean for the Crusty fan? Well, according to the company it will mean bigger and better shows, and more of them. A massive schedule of events is again planned for Australia, New Zealand and of course the USA in 2010 but dates are yet to be finalised.

Owner of the Crusty Demons brand, Fleshwound Films, has formally terminated all tour rights and agreements with Rush Sports.

CDTH Director Adam Bray commented, “We are thrilled to bring the biggest freestyle

brand in the world to new markets and extend the live show entertainment worldwide. The team at CDTH is looking forward to being a key part of it all.”

Owner and Founding member Jon Freeman had this to say about the new tour setup: “Fleshwound Films, LLC is very excited to create CDTH to further expand and grow the Crusty Demons brand. Crusty is extremely well positioned as we expand our business relationships and ensure the continued success of the brand for many years to come.”

Time will tell if the show is actually bigger and better but keep an eye out for 2010 show dates. n

P platers have not been forgotten, P2 drivers will lose their licence on their second offence and P1 drivers will continue to see the licence disappear after one offence.

You can get more information on the changes at www.rta.nsw.gov.au or www.transport.qld.gov.au. n

Lowndes gets an R1

V8 SUPERCAR driver Craig Lowndes obviously likes high powered two wheeled steeds as well as the gas guzzling V8s.

Lowndes recently took delivery of two new R1 Yamahas, one for himself and the other for his wife Natalie.

“I have read so much about the new model and when I went to Phillip Island for the World Superbike Championships and actually heard one of the bikes start up I knew I just had to have one,” said Lowndes.

“They sound amazing and the technological advances between the two models is just huge.

“I also have a dirt bike as well which I use for fitness and I really enjoy that side of my training, however, the road bike is my passion after coming from a race car background.

“I really love hitting the bitumen when I get a bit of down time.”

And with the new Crossplane Crankshaft design making the bike sound not dissimilar to a V8, Lowndes should feel right at home. n

JULY 2009 - 7

NEWS torque

Half-yearly results

IT’S common knowledge that bikes sales throughout the world are in a state of flux at the moment. But some of the sales results make for very interesting reading indeed.

The top ten brands for road bikes only are 1. Suzuki; 2. Harley-Davidson; 3.

Honda; 4. Kawasaki; 5. Yamaha; 6. Triumph; 7. Hyosung; 8. Ducati; 9. BMW; 10. KTM. While many of the manufacturers have posted reduced sales for the first half of 2009, the ones that buck the trend are Suzuki, up by 11.3 percent, Triumph up by 1.2 percent and BMW who has sold 10.2 percent more machines than this time last year.

Dirt bike sales are topsy turvy as well, with Yamaha leading the way from Honda, Suzuki, KTM, Kawasaki, Husqvarna, Husaberg, BMW, Puzey and Aprilia, all finishing in that respective order on the sales sheets.

Kawasaki’s Ninja 250R is the top selling motorcycle in Australie, followed by the venerable Honda CT110 Postie blaster. Suzuki’s DRZ400E is also a big seller, as is Yamaha’s popular WR450F. It seems although sales have dropped globally, and here in Australia, there are still plenty of punters buying bikes, especially for the learner and off-road market. n

eMag Competition coming soon Make sure you check out Cycle Torque’s eMag competition starting soon.

To celebrate the launch of the electronic version of Cycle Torque, we will be giving way thousands of dollars in prizes to motorcyclists who participate.

Check out the electronic editions of Cycle Torque on the website, www.cycletorque.com.au, where you can view and download every new eMag edition of Cycle Torque.

In the September eMag there will be the full details of our Spring eMag competition, including a full list of prizes.

The electronic version of Cycle Torque is a great way to read Cycle Torque - it features live links to websites mentioned in stories and advertising, is available wherever you have a connection to the internet and doesn’t use any paper (unless you decide to print out a story yourself). There’s often a few extras in the electronic edition, too: stories we didn’t have space for the in the print edition is one example. Just click on ‘eMag’ on the www.cycletorque.com.au homepage. n

The E-Mag page on the Cycle Torque website.

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Husaberg in Oh-Ten NEWS of the 2010 Husaberg range is just starting to emerge. The Swedish company, now owned by KTM, has continued with the 70 degree engine layout, something which definitely sets its bikes apart from the competition.

But new for 2010 will be a 390cc version, to go with the FE 450 and 570 models. An FX 450 motocrosser will also be in the lineup, as will the FS 570 supermoto.

All four-strokes, it seems Husaberg’s moto is ‘no smoking allowed’.

For more info you can go to www.husaberg.com. n

NEWS torque

Knighter for Kawasaki ENDURO star David Knight has moved to Kawasaki for the remainder of the American GNCC Championship.

Knight, from the Isle of Man, has been running his own KX450F, winning on his first event on the new green machine.

Knight has now received some extra help, getting an extra two Kawasakis for the remainder of the 2009 GNCC season from none other than the Paul Bird Motorsport outfit, the very same team which runs the factory Kawasaki Superbike effort with Australian Broc Parkes at the helm of one of the machines.

“I’ve been in the lucky position to choose whatever bike I wanted to race on for the rest of 2009. I’d heard such good things about the KX450F that I had to have a ride on one. It’s so good straight from the crate that it needs very little in the way of changes, even at world

championship level, to be a race winning package,” said Knight.

“Knighter is a legend and a great friend of the Paul Bird Motorsport team. We are more than happy to help him continue the

2009 season on a Kawasaki. The presence of such a successful, respected and well liked ambassador for off-road sport is a genuine privilege for us”, said Paul Bird. n

Advertise here Great Exposure Good Rates Online Forever 02 4956 9820

advertising@cycletorque.com.au JULY 2009 - 9

SMALL TORQUE One class for Supermoto

THE FIM has announced the SuperMoto World Championship will be reduced to one class only in 2010.

Previously there were S1, S2 and S3, but for 2010 only the S1 450cc class will survive.

Frenchman Thierry van den Bosch currently leads the S1 championship on a TM.

Pro Grip JOHN Titman Racing (JTR) is now the Australian distributor for Progrip products.

The full range of products from the Italian company, including grips, goggles and the exciting new 2010 clothing range will be available from JTR. JTR’s new website, www.jtr.com.au, features the new Progrip products plus all other latest products imported and distributed by JTR.

50 years of racing HONDA fans now have a pretty comprehensive website to check out the company’s awesome race history over the last 50 years. Everything from the first 125cc four-stroke twin to the NR500 oval piston four-stroke GP racer and beyond.

Go to http://world.honda.com/ MotoGP/history/?r=m.

Charity KLX110 TREVOR Jordan Motorcycles is raffling off a Kawasaki KLX110 to help fund the “Energise our kids” breakfast program run by the Bulli Community Centre near Wollongong. Whomever is lucky enough to win the bike also get riding gear and 12 months’ membership to the Mount Kembla Motorcycle Club.

Tickets can be purchased from Trevor Jordan Motorcycles, the Bulli Community Centre and a host of other local businesses, with the raffle prize being drawn on October 25, 2009.

Call Trevor Jordan Motorcycles on 02 4228 9683 for more info.

The Bikesmith A NEW motorcycle service centre is opening up in Blacktown. The Bikesmith is run by former Yamaha Australia staffer Simon Thomas. Simon and his business partner John Manwarring have been around motorcycles and motorcycle racing for more years

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than they probably care to remember but both are passionate about bikes and providing great service to their customers.

“The goal of The Bikesmith is to be the first bike shop of its kind. A specialist service centre catering for all brands but selling technical expertise and integrity, not influenced by sales of a particular brand of motorcycle, “ said Simon.

“Essentially The Bikesmith aims to provide Sydney’s motorcycling community a service solution not previously experienced by most motorcyclists.”

The official opening of the shop, located at 3/62-64 Sunnyholt Rd, Blacktown, is on August 15.

For more info email Simon at onthebackwheel1@yahoo.com.au.

Bums on Euros WANT to test ride a new Aprilia or Moto Guzzi? John Sample Automotive, the importer of these Italian motorcycles, is spreading its test fleet around so you can see what these bikes have to offer.

“This is an exciting opportunity for riders looking to purchase an Aprilia or Moto Guzzi to try before they buy – we’re supporting our dealerships by utilising our fleet of demonstrators combined with the stores,” said National Manager Kris Matich.

Saturday August 1 will see the test fleet at Melbourne City Motorcycles, 86-88 Hoddle Street, Abbotsford in Victoria.

03 8415 1800.

Sunday August 2 they will be at A1 Motorcycles Ringwood, 68 Maroondah Hwy, Ringwood Vic. 03 9870 1256.

Saturday August 8 they are at A1 Motorcycles Brighton, 823 Nepean Hwy, Brighton East. 03 9563 9166.

Give them a call.

Injected VTR HONDA has now fitted out its 250cc sporty commuter, the VTR250, with fuel injection.

There are a few other updates for the baby VTR, but the overall lines and styling looks much the same.

Powered by a 90 degree V-twin, the VTR250 is a favourite with learners and commuters.

Visit www.hondamotorcycles.com.au or your local Honda dealer for more information.

Zombies CHECK out this new website aimed at bike riders from all over the world.

Apparently it’s all about networking and sharing ride stories and tips etc.

Go to www.zombietribes.com for a look. Membership is free.

Cool vid CHECK out this cool video of an old Norton Commando which is alive, just like the Transformers movie. You’ll find it at w w w . y o u t u b e . c o m / watch?v=iKqpvriKZuA.

Jobs with Honda INTERESTED in a career with Honda?

Well the company now has a ‘Careers at Honda dealerships’ section of its website. You can go to www.hondampe. com.au to see if there’s a spot for you.

According to Victor Colcott, Honda Australia’s General Manager for customer service, the company was keen to find a simple solution to connect dealers with potential employees.

“The feedback we are getting is that it has been difficult to find qualified technicians within the motorcycle and small engine industries, and to retain them long term.”

“Through the provision of the new Job Board, we hope to help our dealers to source qualified potential employees, as well as increase the opportunities for job seekers to gain employment with a world leader in engine manufacturing.”

Although the site has been developed with the recruitment of technicians in mind, jobs are also posted for other positions within dealerships including apprentices, parts, sales, marketing and administration.

Suzuki competition thumper SUZUKI stores will be brimming with new RMX450Z enduro racers shortly.

The bike uses much of the race-bred technology of its MX brother, the RMZ450, including the fuel injected 450cc single cylinder engine, but will not be road legal.

Suzuki states the high cost of making the bike ADR compliant was not financially viable in these uncertain times.

No specific prices or exact release dates are available but it looks like fun. n

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NSW: 02 9820 4444 WA: 08 9478 6211

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since 1971 66

QLD/NT: 07 3278 92

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a.com.au JULY 2009 - 11

NEWS TORQUE

Have an Adventure, buy our KTM 990 IT’S TIME to part with our KTM 990 Adventure. It’s been an awesome bike for us but it’s time to update to keep our long term test bikes current.

If you check out the Editorial column on page 32 you’ll find out more about our time with the bike, but essentially as it sits it’s as stock as a rock.

It has rego until mid February 2010, is fitted with Pirelli Scorpion tyres with good tread and is in good overall condition with a few minor battle scars here and there. It also comes with a set of pannier frames.

The bike has just over 21,000 kilometres on the clock, has been well maintained and is an absolute bargain at $13,500 ono. NSW Rego number SPS 16. n

Gibernau out of MotoGP

BORN-again MotoGP racer Sete Gibernau has had the rug pulled from beneath him, his Grupo Francisco Hernando Ducati squad falling victim to the global financial crisis.

Rumours have abounded around the MotoGP paddock for weeks that the team was on borrowed time due to its inability to procure extra sponsorship funds.

The team was launched in a blaze of publicity earlier in the year, with Gibernau in the hot seat, but the 36-year-old has failed to make any impact on the championship, his best finish 11th place at his home GP in Jerez.

This almost certainly means Gibernau’s career is over and now there will only be 17 bikes on the grid for the remainder of the season. n

Cash for Neonatal

A HUNTER-based (NSW) club has raised $1000 for the Neonatal Unit at the John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle, handing the cheque over to Doctor Paul Craven recently.

The Old Boars Motorcycle Club started in December 2008 so a few like minded motorcycle enthusiasts could enjoy their love of bikes together while also raising money for charity.

The not-for-profit club is registered and only had five members at its inception. This has now grown to over 50 members from all walks of life. For the Old Boars MCC to raise this money in such a short time was obviously a great feeling for its members and the Neonatal unit.

“We are all about enjoying our riding and supporting charities,” said Club President Dale Woods.

“It was especially important for us to support the Neonatal Unit, many of us have children and it’s sad to see kids go through pain so we thought the money we’d raised first should go here.

“We have a great time together and regardless of what bike you have you can join our club,” he added.

The club has now targeted Prostrate Cancer as the next disease to tackle during this financial year, and possibly another charity if enough funds can be raised. n

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JULY 2009 - 13

INFORMATION FROM OUR ADVERTISERS 4

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Helmet hookup

HELMETS tend to take up plenty of space so it’s nice to put them up and out of the way. Enter the Helmet Hook, which is super compact, so no matter where you are you can simply flip it out and hang your helmet from a table, chair, just about anything.

Price: $9.95 Available from: Leading bikes store or online at www. helmethook.com.au More info: www.helmethook.com.au 2

Trailer hold

THERE’S a variety of ways to tie down your bike in the trailer, but many of them rely on pulling down the suspension, causing who knows what damage over time. But if you get one of Carlex’s Multifunction Wheel Locks you can bolt the wheel lock into your trailer and then it’s a simple matter of wheeling the bike in and tying off the wheel to the wheel lock. That way the suspension is free to bounce up and down as much as it likes without running the risk of the bike coming undone.

You can even bolt it to your garage floor if you like.

Price: $140 Available from: Direct from manufacturer More info: www.easytrailer.om.au or 1300 881 787.

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Grin factor 10

Grinfactor heavyweight T-shirts are available direct from the Australian distributor and selected bike shops. Great print quality on

14 - JULY 2009

heavy weight quality garments. Dozens of designs with attitude, including mens and womens, with a kids range coming soon.

Price: $35 Available from: Direct or selected bike shops More info: www.grinfactor.net.au or 03 5961 5792 4

Toasted fingers

TOURMASTER’S Winter Elite Gloves have a list of features a mile long all aimed at getting your hands warm, dry and safe. There’s Hipora and Thinsulate linings, a goat and sheep skin leather construction, a visor wiper and nylon storm covers built in.

Price: $99 Available from: www.bikegearwarehouse.com.au More info: www.bikegearwarehouse.com.au

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L abel tidy

WE ALL like to keep our pride and joy as clean and tidy as possible, right? Well check out the RegoProTube, Australian made from high grade billet alloy, with stainless steel fittings and UV safe perspex. They look trick and come in a variety of colours, including anodised.

Price: $46.99 + postage Available from: Direct fromRegoProTube or selected bike shops.

More info: www.regoprotube.com.au 6

More Ducati style

THE Borgo Panigale collection of apparel was inspired by the birthplace of Ducati.

Made of high quality materials and created by the finest designers this retro themed collection includes cap, men’s T-shirt and jackets in both men’s and ladies cuts. All the

gear has a two year warranty.

Price: T-shirts – $80, jacket $758, cap $45.

Available from: Ducati stores nationwide More info: www.store.ducati.com.au 7 Racey water bag/tool pouch

MADE from heavy duty 600D nylon with a lightweight shell, this Yamaha Racing 2litre water bag/tool pouch has multiple compartments. It features a zip-off tool pouch (tools not included), padded back for comfort and adjustable straps. 40cm x 30cm x 20cm.

Price: $120.00 Available from: Your Yamaha dealer More info: www.yamaha-motor.com.au/ shop

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Work that body

A NEW range of injection moulded bodywork is available from Delkevic. Made from high quality ABS plastic all panels will interchange with originals and accept original fittings. No drilling required! Kits available for many brands and models including Honda’s CBR1000RR. (‘04-’07) Price: $799 plus postage.

Available from: Delkevic Australia More info: 1300 457 878 www.delkevic. com.au

JULY 2009 - 15

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Smick gear

MOTORCYCLE gear has to be both practical and comfortable, otherwise we can certainly get the willies with it quick smart. Recently I was kitted out with some Vemar and Spyke gear from NF Importers.

Firstly the Spyke leather jacket is very comfortable.

It comes with a zip out liner and has a number of stretch panels to make life easier for the wearer.

It’s very classy looking and is pleasantly generous on its size, made for big boned Aussies.

A set of Spyke gloves also came with the jacket, simply called “Simply Touring”. They are a mix between summer and winter gloves. There’s no hard protection for the knuckles, it’s more heavily padded on those areas instead. perfect for a pleasant day’s ride.

We’ve had a few Vemar helmets and been happy with the quality and price. This time it’s a black/ white/silver VSRE model. I was immediately impressed with the quality of the lining and it does look trick.

Fit is pretty good, with plenty of room around the ears, which is a strong point for me, I hate having my ears squashed. There’s also a number of vents so getting the air in is no problem.

Price: Vemar Cutain Helmet $470, Simply Touring Gloves $119.95, Fighter jacket $565.

Available from: Leading motorcycle shops More info: www.nfimporters.com.au

1

2 2

Compact Video

IF YOU’D like to step up a notch from the video camera in your mobile phone but like the form factor - that is, easy to fit in a pocket and use – Kodak’s new Zx1 could be for you. Billed as a High Definition Adventure camera, the Zx1 is shock and weatherproof, and it’s only $299.

Perfect for the bike, right? Well, not really. Even with the optional adventure mount the Zx1 is difficult to set up on a bike - its shape works against it here, with it sitting up in the wind, so it’s difficult to set up the shot.

However, if you want to record your trip with some video - or maybe want to have a pillion record some action - it is easy to use, produces reasonable-looking footage and even wind noise is well controlled - for such a cheap camera.

Price: RRP $299 Available from: see www.kodak.com.au for stockists More info: www.kodak.com.au

16 - JULY 2009

Fathers’ Day books!

Racing and sport books, fast Father’s Day reading…

The Ultimate GP Guide

The definitive guide to MotoGP, Motocourse is essential reading if you want to really know what happened in the world’s premier road racing championships.

Contains detailed information from teams, riders and journalists you simply won’t find elsewhere.

Superb photography. 2007-2008 features Casey Stoner’s winning year in MotoGP.

Motocourse 2008-2009 $139.95 2007-2008 $119.95

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.

The Castrol Six Hour Production Race – $69.95

JULY 2009 - 17

Fathers’ Day books!

Recent arrivals, perfect for Father’s Day. Legendary Motorcycles Some bikes become legends, from Burt Munroe’s Indian to the Easy Rider choppers to anything owned by Steve McQueen or Elvis. This book tells their stories. Lots of modern and old photographs, hardcover, forward

by Jay Leno.

Legendary Motorcycles – $49.95 Biker’s Handbook A hilarious guidebook to becoming a legitimate member of the American Biker culture. If you’re into American motorcycles but not sure if you’re a genuine ‘Biker’, the Biker’s Handbook is for you. If you’re just looking for a funny motorcycle book - a look at the crazy stuff American Bikers do - this book is also worth a read.

Biker’s Handbook – $34.99 Sport Riding Techniques 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.

Sport Riding Techniques – $44.99

The Art of BMW Covering the first 85 years of BMW bikes, this beautifullyproduced book covers everything from the first R32 right through to the K1200S in a coffee-table book format.

Exquisite photography and insightful text about many different BMW models makes this book essential reading for any BMW enthusiast.

The Art of BMW – $69.99

18 - JULY 2009

Get him something he really wants - a bike book from Cycle Torque!

Dads! Drop hints that while you’d love some new jocks & socks, a bike book from Cycle Torque would be even better…

The Harley-Davidson Motor Co. This massive coffee-table book - over 400 pages, large format – depicts HarleyDavidson’s own collection of bikes, having kept one of every model it has ever produced.

Quality studio photography and excellent background information tells the story of Harley-Davidson through its many and varied models. Includes prototype motorcycles which never made it to production. Hardcover.

The Harley-Davidson Motor Co. – $79.99

Ducati Ducati provides stunning photography and insightful text into Italy’s premier motorcycle marque.

From exotic, rare early machinery to the beveldrive twins to the modern 4-valve machines, Ducati of the late nineties, this is one for every Ducati enthusiast. Doesn’t cover the latest models, but is now available at a very reasonble price. Softcover, 98 pages.

Ducati – $25.99

BMW Racing Motorcycles Here is the intriguing story of BMW and how its fortunes were moulded by a determination to win races. The fledgling company decided to test its products, demonstrate the quality of its designs, and showcase German technology by winning competitions.

The book covers the company’s early mutation from aircraft engine builder to producer of reliable, high-quality motorcycles.

Its development of supercharged engines, advanced suspension systems, and many other innovations led to its dominance of various race competitions at different times, with many of those technologies making their way into production motorcycles.

BMW Racing Motorcycles – $49.95

JULY 2009 - 19

Fathers’ Day books!

Doctor Costa Tears & Triumph

Pro Motocross and Off-Road Riding Techniques Ride to win with the pros.

This book has advanced tiips from the best pro riders – Ricky Carmichael, James Stewart, Danny Carlson, Chad Reed, Greg Albertyn, Jeremy McGrath and others give you the inside line on everything from body position to brake/power slides. Full of action sequences, and step-by-step specific techniques, this book will make you faster on the track or in the bush.

Softcover, 224pages.

Pro Motocross and OffRoad Riding Techniques – $44.99

Claudio Costa is the doctor who fixes bike racers. He gets them back out there as quickly as possible: Gardner, Doohan, Agostini, Rossi, Biaggi and many others have all been clients. Here Dr Costa takes a close look at what makes riders tick, offering insight into why they ride and race. It also looks at the Clinca Mobile, the travelling hospital founded by Costa. The book is semiautobiograhical, showing us the man behind the medic.

Doctor Costa Tears & Triumph - $80.00

World’s Fastest Indian

Blood, Sweat & 2nd Gear Here’s some practical medical advice for motorcyclists delivered with a dry wit. There’s a lot more than just practical first aid here, it’s great background information which is good for any motorcyclist.

Blood, Sweat & 2nd Gear – $34.95

20 - JULY 2009

Burt Munro, Indian Legend of Speed, is the definitive guide to the man who inspired many by making an old Indian go so very, very fast.

Munro, of course, is the central character of the movie World’s Fastest Indian, which is a must-see film for anyone with an interest in motorcycles.

One Good Run is a dramatic recreation of Burt’s life and includes numerous images.

Burt Munro, Indian Legend of Speed $55.00 One Good Run $29.95 Special offer Both Munro books for $74.95, save $10 Both softbacks

Racing bikes through the ages The history of racing motorcycles is faithfully recorded in Mick Walker’s series of country-based books, each containing detailed information about the good, bad and ugly race bikes.

Large, thick books full of detail about the bikes you have heard of and many you haven’t.

Japan gets two books - one for it’s production-based racers and another for Grand Prix bikes, while Italy, Germany, Britain get one each. European Racing Motorcycles covers the remainder of Europe.

Italian Racing Motorcycles - $74.50 British Racing Motorcycles - $74.50 Special offer German Racing Motorcycles - $74.50 European Racing Motorcycles - $74.50 British Racing Motorcycles - $74.50 Japanese Production Racing Motorcycles - $98.50 Japanese Grand Prix Racing Motorcycles - $74.50 All softbacks, 250+ pages, 21x28cm

Buy all 6 Racing Motorcycles books for $450 - save $84.50

Famous Riders

Geoff Duke…The stylish 6-time world champion…$59.95 Colin Seeley Racer-vol1…large format coffee-table book…$105.00 Mike Hailwood-The fans favourite…Last few copies available…$59.95

To Order Call 02 4956 9825 or fill out the form below – See and download the full book catalogue from www.cycletorque.com.au

Book Title: _ _________________________________ Qty:____ Price:_______ Book Title: _ _________________________________ Qty:____ Price:_______ Book Title: _ _________________________________ Qty:____ Price:_______ Postage & handling: ($10.00 or Free if more than $100 spent)_ Want more than 3? List them on a separate sheet.

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Signature_________________________ Cheques or money orders should be made out to Motorcycle Publishing Pty Ltd.

Send your order to: Book Sales, Cycle Torque, PO Box 687, Warners Bay, NSW 2282 Ph: (02) 4956 9820, Fax: (02) 4956 9824

JULY 2009 - 21

Cycle Torque test – Triumph Daytona 675 RIDING GEAR: Spyke Jacket & gloves, AGV helmet, Alpinestar boots.

MuscL 675cc of inline triple in a mid-range sports bike has been exciting since Triumph kicked the Daytona 675 off a few years ago. 2009 is the first major facelift since the bike was first seen on dealers’ floors: it’s a little faster, a little lighter and a little sharper. It might look very similar than the outgoing model but the changes have had a positive effect.

Triumph’s mantra with the Daytona 675 – indeed, with its entire range – has been to incrementally update the bike rather than re-invent the wheel every couple of years. It was very good to begin with, in many eyes its extra mid range stomp compared to 600cc four cylinder sportsbikes made it easier to get the best out of on the road. The formula is working on the track too though: a motorcycle which has managed to win the British, Belgian and German Supersport titles in 2008 must be doing something right, and with over 15,000 sold to date the paying public – current price is $14,890 + ORC – must agree.

On the stand At first glance you can see the Daytona oozes all the style we expect from a Supersport title contender, from the new sleek front styling to the exhaust tucked neatly under the rear seat.

Triumph has given the engine three extra horsepower (now 128) and has shed three kilos off the weight (now 162kg dry) for 2009. Engineers got the extra three ponies by raising the rev limit by 450rpm. A new

22 - JULY 2009

exhaust liberated two kilos and new wheels took one kilo off the unsprung weight of the bike. The three cylinder engine remains essentially the same as the 2008 model and features multipoint fuel injection, four valves per cylinder, a six-speed close ratio gearbox and wet clutch.

But for this year Triumph has taken the hydraulic cam chain tensioner and a taller first gear from the race kit and made them standard fitment.

There is an optional quick-shifter which you can just plug in and away you go; the ECU has been rejigged to make this a possibility. If you’re looking at doing some track work a quick-shifter would be a great addition, not having to button off for upchanges will reduce lap times.

An alloy twin spar chassis is used in conjunction with a twin-sided swingarm to house all the important bits.

New to this latest model are the Nissin monobloc four-piston calipers, attached to 41mm Kayaba forks.

Both the forks and shock have high and low speed damping adjustments.

The rake and trail are unchanged at 23.9 degrees and 89mm. The Daytona’s trail is around 10 per cent less than most of its competitors, which is interesting: on paper it would indicate the machine might be prone to poor front-end stability, but that’s not the case unless the road gets particularly crappy - which is when you shouldn’t be riding hard anyway, and where nearly all race-replica machines aren’t at their best anway.

TEST BY

Chris Pickett & Bill Newton

PHOTOS BY

Nigel Paterson

Led up

Add some horsepower, subtract some weight, make a better bike.

Stainless steel exhaust snakes its way through the twin-sided swingarm.

New Nissin brakes and high/low speed damping on the kayaba forks.

Sporty from every angle.

JULY 2009 - 23

Cycle Torque test – Triumph Daytona 675 (Cont.)

MuscLed up On the road Setting off into the early traffic, the comfort levels were immediately obvious. An average sized rider would have everything tucked in nicely, without their legs folded like a half-open pocket knife, which is a nice change from most on offer in the Supersport class.

The cable operated clutch, a departure from the hydraulically-actuated units now more common on midrange and large bikes, was light and functional. The dash is the same as before, practical and easy to access information. The gear indicator we find of great value while the lap timing function and adjustable shift light adds to the value.

A short wheelbase, steep rake, short trail motorcycle is always going to steer quickly – and the Daytona does. Find yourself in a series of 3565km/h corners and the Daytona will quickly bring a smile to your face. Let the tractable engine loose and you’ll be rewarded with a glorious induction roar and third gear is as low as you’ll need to go to still have strong power out of corners. Sensational brakes that give you the exact amount of braking power you require, without any savage bite, were all the invite we needed to go deeper and harder into corners. Combined with what felt like a close ratio gearbox and a slipper clutch, we were charging into corners very quickly indeed. We were very surprised to find out later that it did not have a slipper clutch – Triumph has done a great job with the engine mapping to stop rear wheel chatter.

If you crunch the numbers you might be concerned the steering could be nervous, but in the real world the 675’s steering was so precise in its entry to corners you could feel the winning package this bike displays shining through at every bend and different camber that we threw at it. The fitment of Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP tyres on this bike certainly lets you explore the extremes of the 675’s excellent suspension package.

We have always wondered why the Daytona wasn’t better represented on Australia’s race tracks. Sure, it’s made BEARS racing a happy hunting ground but it’s been conspicuous in its absence on Superstock 600 and Supersport grids. It’s been said a lack of top speed compared to the four cylinder machines has been the issue, not that you would notice it on the road. That’s surprising considering the power output Triumph claims for the 675.

24 - JULY 2009

We think it’s more a case of many riders sticking to the well trodden path, rather than looking outside the square. There is no mistaking the Daytona is one serious Supersport machine. Its mid range is a strong point but it also handles, stops and goes very well and is relatively roomy for a Supersport machine. Maybe the factory optional quickshifter might entice a few more racers to the fold.

The last word We would have no problems recommending the mid sized Trumpy to anyone looking for an exciting bike to ride on either road or track. It will suit a variety of body sizes, and we feel there are more titles in the stars for the Daytona 675. n

S p e c i f i c at i o n s: 2009 Triumph Daytona 675 Engine Type: Liquid cooled 4-stroke triple, DOHC 4 valves per cylinder Power: 126hp Transmission: six speed/chain drive Fuel Capacity: 17.4 Litres Frame Type: Alloy twin spar Seat Height: 825mm Dry Weight: 162kg Front Suspension: 41mm USD forks, adjustable Rear Suspension: Monoshock, adjustable Brakes: 2 x 308mm discs with Nissin 4-piston calipers/ single-piston Nissin caliper on rear 220mm disc Tyres: 120/70-17, 180/55-17 Price (RRP): $14,890 + ORC Call for a quote today free CALL

1 800 24 34 64

Your Motorcycle Insurance Specialists

Web: http:// www.triumphmotorcycles.com.au

Two kilos have been lopped off the muffler.

Reworked frontal styling for the ’09 Daytona.

JULY 2009 - 25

www.dragginjeans.net

Work hard

me, “Fantastic mate, did you rob a bank?

About a month later the letter was Mr Anthony Spry we are pleased to inform you, you qualify for a AAA rating and now available for you to use is the sum of $5000 dollars.

Even my dad couldn’t get a triple AAA he was a bit peeved. I was chuffed and the owner at 17 and one month of a brand new Norton 850 Commando.

Moral is you can achieve things if you put your head down and arse up and work for it. Unfortunately the bike had to be sold a few years later because of the 250cc law for

A BRAND new Norton at 16 and an AAA finance rating to boot wow! And the envy of all my mates! I went and spoke to my dear old dad who used to ride everything from BSAs, Triumphs, Nortons and a Vincent Black Shadow to help me buy my first bike. We went and picked out a Norton 850 Commando in 1975 with the white tank and blue and red pin stripe. Absolutely incredible looking machine and only a mere $2,250 bucks.

I was a first year apprentice working for a company called Show Ads at the time, which was situated in little Lonsdale Street just up the road from Peter Stevens City (Melbourne), so I did have plenty of time to peruse my purchase anyway.

So I worked up my deposit of $300 and the next available Saturday we went and put the money down and the sold sign went straight on the tacho and seat which was a great achievement.

Now for the finance. We stepped straight next door to AGC finance and signed up and estimated it would only take me 12 months to pay it off.

The guy said no way would he let an apprentice only sign for 12 months so two years it was. We picked it up the following Thursday night on a dodgy trailer with no tail lights working so my bike was it with its tail lights, all the way back to Doncaster, with my head not moving once from the bike and all its glory bouncing around in the Trailer From Hell. Dad thought we better go for a spin to rejuvenate the battery being left on and around the block we went. Mum didn’t OK, you’ve won the Draggin Jeans. Next time you decide to even know about the purchase at all until the send a pic to a bike magazine, trailer pulled up, she had been worried enough how about putting on some boots back in the ’50s and ’60s with my Dad not to even comment. On the 13th month of the two year - you’re setting a bad example to finance I had the final payment ready and saw the the kiddies. same guy that signed me up and he quoted this to

Editor CHRIS PICKETT PUBLISHER Nigel Paterson Design & PRODUCTION Dionne Hagan, THE D MEDIA DESIGN Advertising Vic: Brian Sullivan, 03 9530 9990 Other States: DENNIS PENZO, 0420 319 335 dennis@cycletorque.com.au Accounts Rebecca Eastment 26 - JULY 2009

TORQUING BACK LETTERS

Tearaway momma.

I couldn’t think of anything witty to write that would win me a pair of Draggin Jeans, so here’s some pics.

My monkey man decided to cut down our huge Silky Oak trees so it would not blow down on our neighbour’s hot rod in the heavy weather we’ve just had on the Goldie.

I sat back and watched and when the weather was nice the next day, I decided to get his bike out and jump the stump. I was too scared to use my WR250 just in case I smashed into the Avocado tree that was in the way. I landed, didn’t hit anything and rode away thinking Draggin Jeans would have looked better in the pic. Here’s me surfing, another reason to protect my legs from gravel rash.

Oh yeah, my poor man was severely allergic to the tree and broke out in an itchy rash everywhere. And since he wasn’t wearing any undies he got the rash EVERYWHERE! Couldn’t have sex for over a week.

Maybe you could afford to give him some Draggin Jeans too. Actually, now I’m thinking Draggin should sponsor me. How many 37-year-old mums jump tree stumps in their suburban front yards?

– Fiona Mackenzie Qld

same provisions apply to groups. All it takes is the cops to have a reasonable suspicion of criminal activity.

The process can be started by some cop, standing in the Supreme Court saying “I think he might be a criminal” and it’s all on.

This law was drafted, debated, and rammed through parliament in one day. One day. How can any law be subject to the debate and scrutiny required in one day? These laws are the most savage CAB attack on our rights and they were slammed through in aAUDIT matter of hours. No law can be considered properly in that time.

The laws make absolutely no mention of outlaw motorcycle clubs. They make no mention of any organisation. They can be used against any group of people, at any time, in any circumstance. All it takes is for any two people to have a criminal charge against them, at any time in their lives, to be in the same group, for the group to be charged as a criminal organisation. Once declared, you cannot contact any other person in the group, with the exception of some Maximise restrictive work and family contacts. If you do, two years

Member Cycle To

mation Guide

L and P platers but that’s a different story.

Anthony Spry, Victoria

Write A Letter!

WIN A PAIR OF DRAGGIN JEANS

The evil within

SOME comments on the NSW COC laws.(Control Of Organised Crime). Firstly I will run through the legislation, then give some examples of where it can be used against innocent people. The legislation is almost a copy of the South Australian laws, with one major difference; the NSW law allows individuals to be a “proscribed person” as well as a group to be a “proscribed organisation”. This process is done in secret, with the accused having no right to see any evidence, no right to representation, and no right to defend themselves. None at all. The

www.cycletorque.com.au PO Box 687, Warners Bay, NSW 2282 Ph (02) 4956 9820 • Fax (02) 4956 9824 Email: info@cycletorque.com.au

the the CAB Mem

The CAB brand which synonomous with cre

The world famous Draggin Jeans, for men and As a member of the C women, are lined with soft-knitted Kevlar including a CAB Mem Unobtanium, a manmade fibre which offers incredible abrasion, cut and heat resistance while sales flyers and news providing a soft and comfortable feel. So, if you’ve got something you’ve been just itching to share with the crew at Cycle Torque and our many readers, now’s Using the badge wil your chance to do it and be in the running for the fabulous Draggin Jeans valued at $250.

Thistobadge has been Send your letters (and or great bike pictures) The Editor, Cycle Torque, PO Box 687 Warners Bay, NSW other promotional ma 2282 or email chris@cycletorque.com.au This month’s winner is Fiona Mackenzie - and no stump jokes, please.

Regular contributors: Darryl Flack, Bob Guntrip, Keith Muir, Darren Smart, Todd Reed, Friedemann Kirn, WWW.2SNAP.COM.

Audit display badg CAB AUDIT

Audited 31,850

Oct to Mar 20

The circulation records of th publication have been submi for independent audit with t Circulations Audit Board

CYCLE TORQUE is published by Motorcycle Publishing Pty Ltd. ABN 91 085 871 147 Printed by RURAL PRESS, NORTH RICHMOND. Print Post approved PP255003/04198 ISSN 1441-8789 Cycle Torque is available from bike shops across Australia.

If you can’t find our latest issue, call 0420 319 335.

Subscriptions are available. $24.95 per year, call 0420 319 335 for details.

Copyright 2006. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced

in any form, including electronic, without written permission of the publisher.

PLEASE CONTACT THE EDITOR BEFORE SUBMITTING FREELANCE CONTRIBUTIONS. JULY 2009 - 27

www.dragginjeans.net

TORQUING BACK

jail, with no right of appeal, and no right to hear any evidence against you. Second time is five years jail, and the same provisions. And that’s just for saying hello to someone.

Any group, whether an organised, structured club or the informal type as above is a target. Put in RSL, football , tennis, church, social, any bike, sporting, ethnic, group, any gathering of people is a target. This is real, right now, and it is fact.

I have been told first hand about Harley Owners Group riders being stopped and held by multiple cars and officers, despite being perfectly law abiding. Ulysses members have been pulled over and harassed. A major Sydney based bike club, who run multiple charity rides, with no affiliations to any outlaw club was harassed by 14 cops, for absolutely no reason than the cops thought they had patch club affiliations. This is harassment, pure and simple. There is no reason to treat people this way, but the cops do, for no other reason than they can.

To say that law abiding people won’t get dragged into the

LETTERS

net is completely wrong and ignorant. Most people have no knowledge of the life other people lead before they meet them. You have no idea if a new member you just signed up is a former altar boy or a just released on parole axe murderer.

All it takes for evil to grow is for good people to do nothing. These laws are here and now, and will be used against all bike riders, and the broader community. Do something. Write to your local member, join a politically active club, anything. These laws are destroying not just your rights, but your freedoms.

Paul Taffa, NSW We couldn’t publish the whole letter due to space restrictions but you get the drift. We also don’t have the resources to confirm or refute any part of Paul’s letter - we have no reason to believe it’s wrong, but there’s no doubt someone will tell us it’s all wrong. And, of, course, that you’ve nothing to fear if you’ve done nothing wrong… – Ed.

E-Torque

Digital Toys

Tripometer Lite (which tracks your journeys) and I’VE got a new toy which you wouldn’t think was a big deal Moto Racing 2009, which to motorcyclists, but it is. It’s the new iPhone 3GS. feeds live MotoGP lap Now, here at Cycle Torque we try to avoid talking about timing, has the results things which aren’t directly related to motorcycling, but from all the GPs this year there’s a few things about the latest and greatest pieces of and news and historical technology which could easily make your motorcycling life information about easier. And the iPhone is one of them.

MotoGP, too. It’s fantastic!

Why the new iPhone? Well, it can replace a whole bunch There are many more of things many of you carry when you go riding: mobile, Apps directly relating camera, video camera, compass and GPS, for a start. Now, to motorcycling you I’ve never carried a compass when out riding, but there’s can download freely been more than one occasion when I’d wished I’d had one, so (or cheaply) to your iPhone and thousands and thousands that’s really just a nice bonus. The GPS in the iPhone won’t which may relate to other interests. I have some relating to measure up to a dedicated motorcycle GPS unit such as the photography and one which tells me when the sun is going TomTom Rider, but it is easy to pull out of your pocket and down so I can catch those colourful sunsets. check where you’re going - a damn sight better than nothing.

Of course, you can also keep your Cycle Torque audio It’s the same with the phone and video – while they aren’t and video podcasts on your iPhone to watch or listen when replacements for dedicated equipment (there’s no flash in you’re not riding… the camera, for a start), a 3.2 mega pixel camera isn’t exactly The idea that I can carry a mobile, camera, video, compass, a record-setter these days, but there are still plenty of people MP3 player and GPS in one jacket pocket is, when I think shooting at that resolution quite happily. about it, quite staggering. When I think it costs me just $90 a And they are the things just built into the iPhone when you month, it won’t be long before I wonder how I ever got along buy it. without it…

Go to the App (application) Store – part of Apple’s Keep in touch with Cycle Torque between issues through iTunes software – and there’s over 50,000 different pieces of the website, on Twitter and FaceBook.

– Nigel Paterson software you can download to enhance your iPhone. I’ve got publisher@cycletorque.com.au Units (a unit converter - miles to km, HP to kW, currency, temperature, speed and lots more), Dual Level (a spirit level),

28 - JULY 2009

JULY 2009 - 29

Cycle Torque test – Kawasaki Monster Energy KFX450R TEST BY

Shaun Moloney

PHOTOS BY

Chris Pickett

RIDING GEAR: Scott Nylons, Jersey, Gloves & Goggles.

One Industries Helmet.

AlpineStars Boots.

Monster graphics, monster action

Green Eyed Mo KAWASAKI’S Monster Energy KFX450R is a lean, mean ATV machine and the black and green graphics give it an edgy look to go with the solid performance.

Powered by a modified version of the 450c four-stroke single developed for the KX450F motocross machine, the ATV version features fuel-injection, five forward gears, reverse and electric start.

All of us at Cycle Torque are big fans of the reverse gear and the simplicity in its use, where you put the KFX into first gear, then push the reverse lever beside the thumb throttle, then push the gear lever past first gear. Ease the clutch out and voila, you’re going backwards.

Going forwards is really the direction you want to be going and getting the KFX underway is no problem, as the motor pulls off the bottom without hesitation.

30 - JULY 2009

Heading up through the rev range is easy as the power from the injected engine delivered by the 42mm Keihin throttle body is quite smooth and very manageable, however the motor does feel slightly restricted and those seeking a greater power hit may want to look at an aftermarket pipe.

The suspension on the KFX450R feels firm with a quite smooth action on both the front and rear. Up front the piggy back shocks have preload, compression and rebound adjustment and are mounted to the dual A-arms and feel at home on the trail and certainly coped with beach work without hesitation. There’s a total of 215mm of wheel travel. The front end generally felt stable, just the occasional twitch which never led to anything more serious. With a bit of suspension

adjustment and fiddling with tyres and pressures to suit your individual riding conditions, this minor issue is sure to be reduced even further. For the rear end, 254mm of travel is available from the adjustable piggy back shock, which also offers high speed compression damping.

The back end offered a great balance of control, compliance and stiffness: for a stock set-up out of the crate it’s really very good, especially in the trail and beach conditions where we spent most of our time on the machine.

Keeping all the components in place is the double cradle aluminium frame, which is light and offers a cockpit which riders will find roomy and quite comfortable.

With the tank and seat being slim it allows the rider to move their weight around on the KFX without impediment. The plastics

S p e c i f i c at i o n s: 2009 Kawasaki KFX450R Engine: Liquid cooled 4-stroke, single cylinder/DOHC/4valve/449cc/42mm Keihin carb/5speed + reverse/Chain final drive Frame Type: Alloy double cradle Seat Height: 786mm Fuel capacity: 10 litre (plastic tank) Dry Weight: 165kg Front Suspension: Dual A-arms, adjustable with 215mm travel.

Rear Suspension: Swingarm/single shock, adjustable with 254mm travel.

Price (RRP): $13,999 web: www.kawasaki.com.au

Driveline looks substantial enough to cope with years of abuse.

Muffler is people friendly.

onster JULY 2009 - 31

Cycle Torque test – Kawasaki Monster Energy KFX450R

Green Eyed Monster also help in this regard as you throw your weight across each side of the ATV you can feel the rear guards giving you support when powering through corners. And this is where the KFX really shines, as you can keep the power dialled on while being in total control of a slide.

Pulling the KFX450R to a halt is handled quite capably by the 163mm discs with dual piston calipers on the front end, while a 200mm petal disc on the rear keeps the back end in check. The mandatory park brake is also available which can be found up on the ’bars and certainly comes in handy when parked on a slope or when it comes time to washing the ATV. Tyres on the KFX are AT21x7R10 on the front while the rear receives the AT20x10R9 tyres, with reinforcing rings on the rims.

As far as offroad use is concerned, the Kawasaki KFX450R is a very useable sports ATV, and Kawasaki has certainly done its homework and produced a very capable machine. It performs well across your typical trail riding terrain and due to the power delivery doesn’t wear the rider out. We found that short shifting was the best way to keep the engine on the boil as it’s not until you start hitting the top end of the rev range that you feel as though a little more power might be needed especially when cracking up long hills and some fairly big sand dunes. It does offer the average rider a quality machine, and with some minor tweaking it will certainly cope with motocross duties.

Whether it be for recreation or racing, the KFX450R certainly stacks up well against its competitors, and is a genuine sports ATV. Of course looks certainly play a part in a rider’s choice of machine and the Monster Energy graphics and styling don’t disappoint in that regard. If however you seek more a more traditional colour scheme, then the Kawasaki green livery is also available on the KFX450R. Whichever way you look at, this machine may turn your friends green with envy. n

32 - JULY 2009

Strong 450cc engine also has reverse gear.

New suspension works better in the rough stuff.

QUAD NEWS

Sinister Quad Racer AFTER winning the 2008 AMA Pro ATV Championship, Suzuki’s QuadRacer R450 is even better in 2009, with a number of improvements.

The QuadRacer R450 is powered by a fuel-injected 450cc four-stroke single cylinder engine, developed from the Suzuki RM-Z450.

Improvements include a piston oil-cooling jet, new alloy rear sub-frame and revamped suspension.

And giving the QuadRacer a sinister look is the new black bodywork and wheels.

For further information and pricing details on the 2009 Suzuki QuadRacer R450, visit your local Suzuki dealer, who can be found through the Dealer Locator on www. suzuki.com.au. n

KTM Quad Challange NEWCASTLE’S Barleigh Ranch Raceway saw plenty of action at the recent NSW KTM Quad Challenge. Plenty of interstate riders made the trek to test local talent, and even though entries weren’t that high, the level of racing was and so was the crowd.

A number of manufacturers were represented but it was KTM’s Chris Brenton from Brigadoon in Western Australia who made a clean sweep of the Pro class on a KTM 450 SX ATV prepared by KTM Newcastle.

“I rode a stock standard KTM ATV 450 SX, with only my personal Fasst Flexx bars, and steering damper fitted by KTM Newcastle, other than that it was straight off the dealership floor,” said Brenton.

“My greatest challenge was to see how I could compete on a stock bike like this, against other ATVs which have had a heap of parts added.

“I’m looking forward to some tougher competition coming soon for the National ATV Championship in September, that’s when the biggest names from all around the country will compete, like Chad McKay and Ryan Lancaster. I’m keen to see how hard I can push myself, and the KTM ATV 450 SX up against these guys.”

The top five in the Pro class were Brenton, Paul Worth, Micaile Di Nardo, Michael Roycroft on the CanAm and John Sherlock.

Len Pipicello took his KTM to victory in the Expert and Vets class, leading home Peter Middleton, Ryan Noyes, Patrisha Bartley and a host of others.

“I have been racing ATVs on and off since 1985, and my results have never been so good. I’m super happy with the mighty KTM ATV 505 SX, especially its corner handling, which gave me a competitive edge in all races.

“My results in the expert class were 1-1-2, and in the vets 1-1-3, which gave me the overall title for both classes at the event,” said Pipicello. n

JULY 2009 - 33

EDITORIAL

Adventure bound

WE’VE got a couple of new projects on the go at Cycle Torque. One we’ll tell you about a little further down the track. The other is a BMW R 1200 GS. The GS is a long termer, we’ll give it a full test, set it up to our needs and we’ll see if any advertisers want to show their wares on the bike while it’s in our care.

The BMW will in fact cross over between the two projects and I’m pretty certain we’ll add quite a few more kilometres to the 3000 already clocked up.

I’ve been at Cycle Torque for around four years now and all our projects in that time have been dirt or adventure based.

First off was the R 1150 GS former ad man Miles Davis bought as a write-off. He resurrected the bike and fitted it out for serious adventure riding. Now that was a great motorcycle, we bought it off Miles when he left to join BMW Australia and when it came time to replace it we sold it to my good mate Gareth Williams who always kept up to date with what we’re doing with the bike and knew a good deal when it bit him on the proverbial. Gareth has no intentions of selling the beast, and with just under 100,000 kilometres on the clock why would he, it’s got plenty of life left in it yet.

Next up came the mighty KTM 990 Adventure. It was a former press bike which was flipped by some overseas tourist – or something like that – and came with a bent rear subframe, cracked cases and a buckled front wheel. If you ask the other guys at Cycle Torque I might have taken my time to get the bike fixed but eventually I got another good friend, Ross West from Central West Motoliner, to lace up a new front rim, I straightened the subframe myself, and Ron Young Engineering (yep, another close mate) welded the crankcases. I’ve made some good friends over the years of road racing and they come in handy sometimes. Here’s a free plug. Want your frame or wheel straightened? Ring Ross. As for Ron Young Engineering, in my view he is one of the best Ducati mechanics in this country. I raced his bikes for years and can attest to his ability with the spanners. You can call him on 02 4938 8097.

Next was a set of Wings mufflers from Rod at Mototoys.

These twin pipes really gave the KTM a sweet sound and Rod has loads of stuff for KTMs and BMWs. His ad is in our Market Torque section every month.

We’ve had the big 2006 Kato for a couple of years now and it’s probably time to move it on just to keep up to date but when it does go it will be with misty eyes that’s for sure. It’s been an awesome bike and has just returned from a 10 day trip to Camerons Corner and back with Cycle Torque co-owner Ray Macarthur in the saddle. He even managed to bring it back in one piece. Maybe we’ll just keep it.

Then we had a Yamaha WR250F. We raced it in dirt track, we raced it in supermoto and we used it as a trail bike. Another great little bike, it got hammered, including one memorable day near Lithgow where I’d previously never ridden in such harsh terrain for so long. That bike went to another good mate,

34 - JULY 2009

Dave Collis, who trail rides it whenever he can. He loves it and he considered it his, pretty much from the first time he saw it. He just had to convince his wife that he really did need to update that old WR250F and buy the new one. He succeeded and everyone was happy, I think.

Our most recent project and one which is still going is our attempt to turn a YZ250F Yamaha into a road racer. An adventurous project one might think but it’s been relatively successful in our eyes. We already had GYTR motard wheels and brakes, we shortened the suspension and we put on road race bodywork. To say this is glossing over the whole project is a mild understatement but we’ve given the bike some press during this year’s season so it’s relatively fresh in many readers’ minds. I will say this though: my son Alex raced it at Eastern Creek at the recent St George Honda/RJays round and he got the little jigger down to 1m52s. In reality it will never match the two strokes or even the Moriwaki GP monos, due to horsepower and weight. The 125 two-stroke GP machines have up to 15 more horsepower and weigh 30 kilos less, and the Moriwakis may be similar on go power but also weigh substantially less.

Those lap times may not impress the serious 125 racer but there will be plenty of people out there who would love to be lapping the Creek at those times on much bigger bikes.

For a bike with so many design compromises it handles very well and my son loves it for its uniqueness. The reasons we built it were many and varied and in our minds it’s been very successful fulfilling its obligations to us. But it’s another bike which may have to go to cater for my son’s step up to the senior ranks. Somehow I’ve found myself in the business of collecting race bikes but this will have to stop before the funds run dry. The shed is already at bursting point.

I’m looking forward to riding the new R 1200 GS for many a mile. It’s got a tank bag and a BMW soft bag for the rack. All it needs is a rider to check out our fantastic country. It won’t have to look far for that.

– Chris Pickett chris@cycletorque.com.au The KTM 990 Adventure is now on the market: see the story on page 12.

GUNTRIP

Legends to order SOMETIME during the late ’70s I had a poster on the bedroom wall depicting the great Kenny Roberts hustling his ‘tractor’ (his description) YZR750 through the apex of a bend at one of the European circuits, during his ill-fated bid to win three world championships in the one season.

The photo was a cracker – pinsharp and well composed, and captured at a moment when Roberts and bike shared between them five points of contact with mother earth – tyres and fairing lower, Roberts’s shin and knee.

Some years later, British magazine Bike published a photo of JeanPhilippe Ruggia punting his Gauloises TZ250 Yamaha through a bend at the Donington British GP with his elbow on the deck. Then, this morning, I was given a squiz at a picture of the mighty Valentino Rossi doing likewise on his current Yamaha.

I don’t recall anyone suggesting it at the time or since, and I rather doubt whether even Jean-Philippe Ruggia would claim that decking his elbow in mid-corner made him a better punter than Kenny Roberts. Ask him about his rare accomplishment on that British summer’s day and Ruggia, gent that he is, would no doubt mumble something about improvements in tyre technology, clean track surface, etc etc.

So when the bloke who showed me the picture of Rossi grounding the royal elbow declaimed that the action made Rossi the best ever, sweeping aside the pretensions of every other contender from Jimmy Guthrie to Kevin Schwantz, I probably looked a bit

befuddled.

We all know comparisons are onerous, but they can sometimes work. As anyone who’s ever dropped a line to the ABC could tell you, Don Bradman finished his Test career in 1948 with a batting average of 99.94, having spent a couple of decades batting on uncovered wickets, negotiating bodyline, etc etc.

Ricky Ponting, his current wobbly stretch notwithstanding, has a Test average of 56.21 after playing more than twice as many Tests as Bradman in just 13 years, having to cope with jetlag and sundry irritations such as 300+ one-day internationals and the current halfwitted preoccupation with 20-over rubbish (why don’t they settle the game with the toss of a coin, that way avoiding the tedious need to play any cricket at all?), sledging, more athletic fielding, constant media attention, and so on.

Great players both, and were Mr Ponting left alone to play a couple of Test series and a clutch of firstclass matches a year, he’d no doubt have a Test average many points

higher that his current – and quite excellent – figure.

But on the basis of the numbers alone I’d sooner have Bradman in my dream team.

Now, what about Rossi versus Everybody Else? Well, that makes a damned sight less sense.

I don’t doubt that Kenny Roberts, John Surtees, Mike Hailwood and Kevin Schwantz would have taken great delight in getting their elbows down if such a manoeuvre would have enabled them to win more championships, but the reality is that if they’d tried it they would have ended up either in the sand or in the back of the nearest ambulance. The technology wasn’t there. And just as a comparison, Rossi’s 100 GP wins have come from 217 starts, compared with Kenny Roberts’ 24 GP wins from 60 starts.

– Bob Guntrip

2009 MotoGP World Championship, Round 08, Laguna Seca, USA: Valentino Rossi, Eddie Lawson, Wayne Rainey, Kenny Roberts.

JULY 2009 - 35

dirty torque

Arch Rivals THERE was Gall and Gunter, Dack and Bell, and more recently Bubba, Chad and RC. Arch rivals, what would we do without them?

It is why we turn up to the track each weekend and it doesn’t matter whether it’s an AMA Supercross Championship or for 20th place at your local club, we all have an Arch Rival.

What is an Arch Rival? Is it someone to hate? Is it someone who constantly gives you the shits on the track? Or is it someone who you just want to beat so bad it keeps you up at night? Well, it can be all of the above and some.

In my day I had many arch rivals.

Over the years though I must say that my most common rivals were the top regional riders like Steve Akers and Mark Carrucci from Cairns, Buster Ward from Townsville, my brother Paul and Wayne Grice from Mt Isa, Steven Dinsdale, Matt Dumigan and Mick Hansen from Mackay, Brian Flemming from Toowoomba, David Armstrong from the Sunshine Coast and from the Brisbane area James Deakin, Alex Kidas and Jeff Redding.

What a great time we all had battling each other over the years.

Arch Rivals? Yes. The occasional heated moment? Yes. Respect? You betcha. Lifelong mates? Absolutely!

These racers made me the person I am today, they were there for the victories, and they were also there for the humiliating defeats (bastards).

Arch Rivals are what makes racing just that more of a special experience and what keeps you coming back each Sunday.

Many, many moons ago Stephen Gall was the ultimate racer. Gally could win on a motocross track, supercross, flat track and was even reasonably handy at road racing.

He was as fit as a fiddle, his riding style impeccable and his long list of championships a testimony to his dedication to his craft.

36 - JULY 2009

Anthony Gunter was a little different. From a fan’s perspective ‘Grunt’ was a little more of a ‘working class man’ type of rider. His style could get a little sloppy towards the end of a moto, he more than often manhandled the bike from corner to corner and he wasn’t as polished as Gall when it came to the overall package.

None-the-less, Gunter was one of the few riders who could put it to Gall on a regular basis. The Gall and Gunter battles were fantastic to watch and considering both were usually throwing around high powered 500cc two-strokes like they were mini-bikes made it all the more inspiring to watch. The ultimate arch rivals and mates right to this day.

Not long after the Gall and Gunter steam train ground to a halt along came a couple of kids: Craig Dack and Glenn Bell. These two guys were without doubt the most committed riders of their era and often swapped teams from year to year to commence the battle as each new season came around.

Dack was a little like Gall, a very professional and polished rider, Bell was quiet and not quite the confident speaker Dack was but on the track Bell could be as ruthless as a rabid dog and again, it was a pleasure to watch these two gladiators of motocross and supercross go toe-totoe week-in week-out throughout the late eighties to the mid nineties. I have never heard either say anything negative about the other and though not what you would call close mates, the mutual respect was palpable.

Another rivalry of a different kind comes to mind. During the 2003 to 2006 World motocross seasons, Stefan Everts and Mickael Pichon were arch rivals who didn’t get along at all.

Everts had battled side-by-side with literally hundreds of riders and rarely had a bad word to say about anybody but for whatever reason the French

star got up his nose.

Pichon was a hard charging take no prisoners type of rider who had few friends in the paddock while Everts was smooth and devastatingly fast James Stewart and Chad Reed, Arch rivals. but really well like among his peers. new height.

I remember watching Everts After a couple of seasons of close stalking Pichon during a moto in racing and getting whipped by Ricky, 2004, for the whole moto Everts just Chad and Bubba kept reasonably sat behind Pichon, sticking his front tidy on the track with only a handful wheel in every now and then but not of flair ups and clashes. Throughout really trying to pass, but with two all of this Carmichael just kept on laps to go Stefan just let his Yamaha winning and remained dominant plow into the side of Pichon’s Suzuki till the end before retiring at the end and shoved the Frenchman into the of 2007. bushes on the outside of the track.

Now it is just Chad and James.

This was not usual Everts’ tactics 2008 was a blow out for James after but he obviously had a reason to send retiring with a knee injury after Pichon a pretty clear message. Pichon, three rounds so Chad was handed the 2001 and 2002 World 250cc that championship and they started Motocross Champion never did win 2009 blowing wind up each other’s another championship and retired bums and all was buddy buddy. In during the 2006 season. Arch Rivals my opinion they gave each other too don’t always get along. much respect and they forgot what Finally the one rivalry we have it takes to win a championship a-la all seen and have an opinion on.

Carmichael’s win at all costs attitude.

Ricky Carmichael, Chad Reed and By the time they got to the business James Stewart. Because of modern end of the 2009 championship the technology and media, we have gloves were off, they were bumping had a ringside seat to not only the on the track (even during practice), close racing between these three but arguing after the races and bagging also all of the off-track personalities, the crap out of each other between comments and at times, trash talk. races. As we stand now it’s a There has been a tension between hostile rivalry leading into the 2010 these three arch rivals since Reed supercross season and as far as I’m came over from Europe and started concerned, that’s the way it should winning almost immediately. RC stay. was the first to not exactly take to the Racing a dirt bike is not for the faint Aussie’s brash style and their first hearted. When you are on the track season against each other was riddled it is every man for himself, mate or with niggling tactics on the track and not, once the gate drops the bullshit backhanded compliments off the stops and as all my rivals will testify track. to, if you are in my way I will carve a Then along came Bubba. By the hole straight through you and would time 19 year old James ‘Bubba’ expect nothing less in return.

Stewart came onto the scene in 2005 Hey, what good is an Arch Rival if the heat between RC and CR had he is going to get all soft on you?

– Darren Smart died down to a weak form of mutual respect but Stewart’s inclusion at the front of the field took tensions to a

RACEtorque

Aussie, Aussie, Aussie?

FOR many years, Australia has been the flavour of the decade (or two) in international racing. We are the only country to have won the major world championships of 500cc/ MotoGP, World Superbike, World Supersport and World Endurance in the last 20 years, and the two major national Superbike championships in the USA and Britain.

Indeed, the last two years have been stellar. Casey Stoner won MotoGP in 2007, and has proved to be the first rider to ever get the better of Valentino Rossi in race wins and sheer speed, while Troy Bayliss backed up his 2006 WSBK win with title number three in 2008.

He was joined on the top box by two-time WSS champion, Andrew Pitt. Not only have we won, we have also had incredible depth in most of the major championships around the world – until now.

Right now, Casey Stoner and Chris Vermeulen are our only to representatives in grand prix, and with talk of Chris V heading back to WSBK, Casey could well be flying the flag on his own in 2010. In the World Superbike ranks, the retirement of Bayliss and veteran Troy Corser’s move to the fledgling BMW Motorsport team haven’t given us a lot to cheer about in 2010. The fall of the mighty Ten Kate juggernaut has seen defending WSS champ Andrew Pitt struggle to get into the top five, let alone top three, with Anthony West, Mark Aitchison and Garry McCoy scoring a podium spot each. It’s been a long time since an Australia rider hasn’t scored either a WSBK or WSS race win this far into a season.

Mat Mladin has been the colossus of AMA racing for over a decade, and for a time was joined by a successful string of Aussies competing in a number of the AMA classes with Krusty Fergusson, Jamie Stauffer, Craig Connell, the late Kirk McCarthy, Ben Attard, Marty Craggill and others doing themselves proud. Now, Aaron Gobert and Britishborn ‘Aussie’ David Anthony are the only other Aussies racing in the AMA, and once Mladin eventually does retire it will leave an enormous void that nobody – Australian or otherwise – will ever fill. BSB rookies Josh Brookes and Jason O’Halloran have had a fiery initiation in the rough and tumble British series dominated

by Leon Camier.

In addition, the injured Brendan Roberts lost his WSBK ride when Gregorio Lavilla was able to bring money into the Guandalini Ducati, and Russell Holland has been likewise turfed out of his WSS ride.

With Casey Stoner suffering some kind of fatigue illness, it has been a tough time for Australian riders in Europe.

Nevertheless, Australian riders, as the world knows, bring a lot to their craft that money can’t buy. But for all of our ‘give it a red hot go’ attitude, the power of the Euro and the dollar is all pervasive, even more so with Europe, the UK and the USA in much more dire economic circumstances than Australia. Twelve months ago, Brendan Roberts was the star of the Junior Ducati Xerox FIM Superstock team, and went to win the title with a dominant win at the final round at Portimao. After recently losing

his WSBK ride to ‘Muchos Pesos’ Lavilla, he is looking to head back to Australia to jag a ride.

In addition to the dozens of Spanish and Italian tyros emerging out of national championships every year, the resurrection of English riders cannot go unnoticed.

125GP Aspar star Bradley Smith is serious world champion material, and either Cal Crutchlow or Eugene Laverty will be crowned WSS champion this year. Ben Spies is the most significant US rider to hit Europe in more than a decade, but underperforming American riders in key world championship seats continue to be tolerated due to the sheer size of the North American motorcycle market.

American Honda virtually engineered Nicky Hayden’s move to MotoGP, although he had already signed with Yamaha, and when it looked like Hayden was on the way out last year, American Honda honchos pleaded with HRC to retain him, simply because of the sizeable marketing investment it had made in him since 2002.

With more Red Bull Rookies hitting the senior ranks each year, the supply of top quality riders has never been bigger. For teams at world championship level, it is very much a buyer’s market. And now, it is no longer a matter of being a highly dedicated athlete with exceptional ability, money and PR skills. You now need to understand the intricacies of engine management, data acquisition and traction control systems, or at least be smart enough to ignore the parts you

don’t understand and make sure you don’t get lost in it. If you’re a little bit geeky to sort what works and what doesn’t, it might help.

While 2008 probably won’t go down as Australia’s best year, there is definitely hope for the future. The phasing out of the 250 grand prix class in favour of Honda-powered Moto2 middleweights will have an even more profound effect on GP racing than the switch from 500 strokers to 990 bangers. From an engineering point of view, Moto2 will be a slightly smaller and less hard-edged version of MotoGP. The 100kg, 120bhp 250cc bike will be made history, and the riding nuances demanded by those parameters will be replaced by MotoGP that is half Supersport/MotoGP. Australia has produced some of the best WSS riders over the last decade with Pitt, Vermeulen and Karl Muggeridge all scoring world championships.

There’s no doubt that on the right equipment, Atcho, Westy or even veteran McCoy would be awful quick on a Moto2 bike. With virtually no 250 GP championship staged anywhere outside the world championships for some time, the move to Moto2 is logical, and its demands may well suit the tide of Aussie riders with Supersport grounding eyeing a ride in the rarefied air of grand prix racing.

– Darryl Flack

Casey Stoner.

JULY 2009 - 37

MAJOR EVE

ALL THE MUST SEE EVENTS BROUG

JLT DIRT BIKE INSURANCE • 1300 655 931 • At home or away...we’ve got

A U G UST

Gold Coast Wintersunshine Motorbike Show and Rally

WHEN: August 1-2, 2009 WHERE: Mudgeeraba Showgrounds, Qld WHAT: Loads of trade stalls, a poker run, a celebration of the history of motorcycling, bike show etc etc. You will no doubt have plenty to do and check out.

CONTACT: www.mecgc.net, or phone Warrick on 0401 533 371.

Australian MX Champs

WHEN: Round 8, August 2, 2009 WHERE: Coolum, Qld WHAT: Australia’s best MX stars go at it to prove who’s best on the whoops, berms and tabletops. Some new faces will take on the older guys, like Craig Anderson who’s turned green for 2009. Coolum is the last round of the championship so expect it to be a beauty.

CONTACT: www.ozmotox.com.au or www.ma.org.au.

Australian Classic MX Championships

WHEN: August 7-9, 2009 WHERE: Green Park Conondale, Qld WHAT: A great look in to yesteryear, with some classic marques like Maico, Montessa, CCM, Bultaco, SWM and Cotton joining the Japanese brands for some full on action, and some parading too.

CONTACT: www.ma.org.au.

2009 Motorcycle Road Race Development Association

WHEN: Round 4, 15-16 August 2009.

WHERE: Morgan Park, Qld. WHAT: Motorcycling Australia (MA) has released the dates for the 2009 MRRDA Series and announce the official status of National Cup to the Junior classes within the series in both two and four stroke classes. There’s also 600 superstock, 125GP/250 Mono and 400s. Awesome racing.

CONTACT: www.mrrda.com for more info.

Australian Superbike Championships

WHEN: August 7-9, 2009 WHERE: Rd 4, Eastern Creek, Sydney WHAT: One of the strongest national series in the world. The breeding ground of many of the Australians currently doing well on the world stage, the championship has plenty of young hopefuls taking it up to the older guys like Jamie Stauffer, Kevin Curtain and Shawn Giles.

CONTACT: www.asbk.com.au or www. ma.org.au.

Australian Trials Championships

WHEN: August 29-30, 2009 WHERE: Pacific Park, South Maroota, NSW WHAT: Spectators will see Australia’s and New Zealand’s top trials riders compete over some of the gnarliest landscape Sydney can offer up! Sections will be set for easy access for spectators.Plenty of

rock hopping madness over the two days of competition. $5 for adults and $2 for children 14 and under.

CONTACT: www.aussietitles.com.au.

NSW Senior Dirt Track titles

WHEN: August 29-30, 2009 WHERE: Nepean Raceway, Sydney NSW. WHAT: These championships will be held in conjunction with the 50th Anniversary of the forming of Nepean Motor Sports Club. Many of the original clubs are now defunct but here’s hoping many of their old members will join in to celebrate the 50th Anniversary. On Saturday night there will be a dinner at the track and we are hoping many of the old riders will use this occasion to catch up with old friends.

On Sunday at lunch time there will be a parade of old riders either on bikes or being chauffered so the crowd can acknowledge their contribution to Nepean and motorcycling. The Parramatta Club will be using this weekend as a reunion and we are hoping other clubs will do the same, hopefully bringing out their old Club Banners etc. Entry to Nepean Raceway for this event will be $20.00 which will entitle the ticket holder to both days of exciting dirt track racing and nostalgia.

CONTACT: For information about the Championships or the 50th Anniversary, please contact Christine Tickner during business hours on 02 4721 4439.

Send your events details to: chris@cycletorque.com.au 38 - JULY 2009

ENTS

GHT TO YOU BY

t you covered • www.jltmotor.com.au/dirtbikes/

SE PT E M B E R+

Australian Historic Road Race Championships

WHEN: September 4-6 WHERE: Morgan Park, Qld WHAT: Bikes ranging from Pre-War right through to the barnstorming Forgotten Era big bangers. Two-strokes, four-strokes, singles and multis will provide thrilling racing, plus you get to be up close and personal with the bikes and riders in the pits.

CONTACT: www.ma.org.au.

Victorian Road Race Championships

WHEN: Rd 3, September 5-6, 2009 WHERE: Phillip Island WHAT: State road racing at its finest, at a track which is great to ride and spectate at. Be there.

CONTACT: www.prestonmcc.com.au.

Blue Liners Tumut Charity Ride.

WHEN: September 12-13, 2009 WHERE: Tumut, NSW WHAT: The Blue Liners Touring Motor Cycle Club is resurrecting the Tumut Charity ride of old. Join the ride at Freemans Waterhole, South Western Sydney, Goulburn or Gundagai. All proceeds to local Tumut Charities. A function has been arranged on Saturday night at the racecourse, with catering, live music and bus transport from the hotel/ motel strip to and from the venue - just like in the old days! Registration $25 per bike + $25 per person for the function, including bus and meal. Pre-register please.

CONTACT: John Griffith 0418 488 935 or john@turb-o-web.com or visit www. blueliners.com.au.

Big Al’s Clubhouse bike show

WHEN: September 19, 2009 WHERE: 7/99 Kurrajong Ave, Mount Druitt WHAT: The annual bike show gives you a chance to check out plenty of great machinery and to also visit Big Al’s amazing clubhouse which is a sight to behold. Profits to the Ulysses Club Arthiritis Research Fund. $10 entry per

person.

CONTACT: www.bigalsclubhouse.com. au.

Bendigo Motorcycle Expo

WHEN: October 3-4, 2009 WHERE: Bendigo, Central Victoria WHAT: The 2009 Bendigo Motorcycle Expo will take place at the Prince of Wales Showgrounds Exhibition Building.

The event should feature all the major manufacturers of on and off-road motorcycles, including Yamaha, Honda, Kawasaki, Harley-Davidson, Suzuki, and Triumph, with many scooter distributors also taking part. Customised, drag and race bikes will be other popular exhibits.

Motorcycle accessories manufacturers and distributors will also be out in force with trade stalls showcasing products from helmets and riding-wear to parts, accessories and bike trailers to airbrush artwork.

CONTACT: Geroge Bobbin 0428 510 426 or bmesecretary@gmail.com

Desert to the Snow Postie Bike Challenge

WHEN: October 3-12, 2009 WHERE: Brisbane to Melbourne WHAT: $4950 per person includes bike ownership, all meals, fuel, mechanics, spares, support vehicles and air fare home. Route; Brisbane to Melbourne the long way over nine days, 3000+km on an unmodified Honda CT110. A great mix of bitumen, gravel, and sand. A once in a lifetime adventure and a great equaliser for all types of riders. This is not a race, it’s a tour with a challenge and a lot of fun. Meet a great bunch of like minded adventurers. Final celebration dinner and a soft bed at a resort at the destination.

As on previous PBCs, in the spirit of goodwill, please voluntarily donate your bike in your name to Rotary at the end.

CONTACT: Dan Gridley, PO Box 287 Spring Hill Qld 4004. 07 3264 7727, www. positebikechallenge.org.

Round 5 PCRA at Oran Park GP Circuit

WHEN: 11th October, 2009 WHERE: Oran Park Raceway, Narellan

NSW WHAT:Don’t miss an action packed day of racing which includes; sidecars, motolites/ supalites, historic & pre-modern classes in a fun & relaxed atmosphere. These meetings have historically been very well subscribed and this year will be no exception.

Oran Park is set to close this year, so make the most of your chance to come & watch the type of bikes that were part of the history of this great racing circuit.

CONTACT: Scott Waters on 0425344711 or www.postclassicracing.com.au/pages/ home.aspx.

Mods V Rockers run

WHEN: October 26, 2009 WHERE: Brighton, Vic WHAT: October the 26th will be a date to pencil into your ride calendars with the inaugural Mods V Rockers run currently being organized with The Crusaders Scooter Club. Commencing in Brighton and then traveling to Armidale, for an afternoon of bikes, scooters and lots of entertainment.

CONTACT: For more information on The 59 Club go to the website www.the59club. org.au

SuperX

WHEN: October 17, 2009 WHERE: Round 1 Aurora Stadium, Launceston, Tasmania; Round 2 Oct 24 Skilled Stadium, Geelong, Victoria; Round 3 Oct 31 Burswood Dome, Perth, WA. WHAT: Chad Reed will return to Australia for the SuperX series, hoping to keep the crwon he won in 2008.

CONTACT: www.superx.com.au.

MotoGP, Australia

WHEN: October 18, 2009 WHERE: Phillip Island, Australia WHAT: The pinnacle of road racing, can Casey Stoner win again or will Rossi and co upset his day? Australian supports will be on the card also.

CONTACT: www.phillipislandcircuit. com.au

JULY 2009 - 39

Green

with ENV

OUR interest in exploiting alternative sources of power waxes and wanes with the price of petrol, but as sure as night follows day we’ll eventually have to find something to replace the magic elixir of youth – fossil fuel.

Recently I had the opportunity to take a closer look at a motorcycle powered by one such alternative, a fuel cell that reacts hydrogen and oxygen together to form water, and uses the energy released by the reaction to power an electric motor and so provide forward urge.

It’s one of just two twowheelers in a worldwide population of about 800 fuel-cell-powered vehicles, and currently lives at Loughborough University in the UK, where it was built by Intelligent Energy (IE).

In its present guise the bike, called ENV (Emissions Neutral Vehicle), is a spindly, ungainly looking creature with the seat height of a motocross bike and the power output of a moped – 6kW, enough to give the bike a top speed of about 80km/h.

But none of that matters.

What’s important is that it’s been built, and seems a sound prototypical platform on which other, more viable models can be built. IE’s Director of Communications, Jon Moore, told me more about it.

BG: How did the project start?

JM: It was an internally

40 - JULY 2009

driven and funded Intelligent Energy project. We sat down and asked ourselves if we could do a fuel-cell motorbike.

We designed the bike around the fuel cell rather than the easier option of taking a bike and removing the engine, which would have given us scope to make something quite different looking. The looks are important: it’s making a statement. There’s a lot of fibreglass on it, a lot of styling features that won’t survive in the process of taking the thing

polluting.

BG: I understand you have a developmental association with Suzuki.

JM: I believe the ENV was important in initially proving our credentials to Suzuki over fuel-powered two-wheelers.

In 2007 we jointly presented the Suzuki Crosscage concept fuel cell motorbike and we now have a joint development agreement with Suzuki – the Crosscage is very clearly their bike but it’s got our fuelcell system in it and that’s

forward to roadworthiness, but we wanted to make something good looking and desirable to customers, and as the bike has won a number of international design awards, we think we succeeded.

BG: Is the bike an end in itself or a convenient testbed?

JM: It’s both. It shows what can be done with fuel cells; motorbikes have generally got under the radar environmentally, but various studies have shown that they’re actually tremendously

really what we do across the business: put our fuelcell systems in our business partner’s applications. We’re presently a small company, whose business model is to develop the technology, for our partners, and then work with them to minimise the time to market. Generally, the partner will already own a sizeable market share of a particular sector. We work across a wide range of market sectors: transportation (cars, bikes, taxis and aircraft), stationary

power; portable power, smaller fuel cells for battery replacement and back-up power as well.

BG: The chassis is very striking. How did the design evolve into its present form?

JM: The design is by Seymour Powell, one of the UK’s leading design houses.

The bike has won awards from Time magazine and Popular Science.

BG: It looks very light.

JM: It weighs about 90kg – lighter than me. But that’s partially because it has no proper lights, no indicators and it’s not built to withstand collisions to any extent. That’s for the next stage.

BG: So how does the drivetrain work?

JM: Air passes through the nose of the fairing and enters the fuel cell, where oxygen in the air is reacted with hydrogen from the bike’s supply. A hydrogen atom consists of one proton and one electron. The atom is ‘split’ so the proton combines with oxygen to form water – the ‘exhaust’ product – while the electron goes into a circuit that powers the electric motor and drives the bike, and is then channelled back to the fuel cell.

So ENV is a fuel cell-battery hybrid: both the fuel cell and the battery feed the electric motor which I think is a 48V DC unit. The fuel cell makes about 1kW and that’s sufficient for cruising. The battery pack makes something like 6kW,

which is for acceleration. The fuel cell also charges the batteries.

BG: How is the hydrogen stored?

JM: In a carbon composite cylinder. It’s just like a normal gas cylinder but the carbon composite weighs a fraction of stainless steel.

BG: No problems with pressure?

JM: Traditional stainless steel takes about 125 bar [125 times atmospheric pressure]; those we use can take 350 bar, but the latest technology stores hydrogen at 700 bar and higher. The cylinders are much safer than stainless. If they ever fracture or have a problem they don’t splinter and shatter, they just crack and vent.

BG: What’s the bike’s range?

JM: About 160km. That’s about 40km on the batteries and 120km cruising on the fuel cell.

BG: Where do you find your hydrogen?

JM: Loughborough University has built its own refuelling station; there is also one in Birmingham and others will come around UK. Boris Johnson [the Mayor of London] is getting 10 hydrogen buses for London in 2010; there are already some in Wales.

Conversion will happen slowly: to connect all the petrol stations in the world to dispense hydrogen overnight that would cost hundreds of billions. You need to introduce the fuel cell vehicles and the appropriate refuelling infrastructure gradually, first with fleet vehicles, then later used by the consumer.

Here, the university refuelling station, which is currently

supplied with hydrogen from natural gas, will soon change hydrogen supplied by an electrolyser, which is a reverse fuel cell – it cracks water into hydrogen and oxygen. The electrolyser itself will be powered by the grid – and the university only buys green electricity, so there’s a case for saying it’s a renewable resource. The aim is to have the electrolyser powered by its own wind turbine, so that way you have a local, truly renewable resource.

Hydrogen is going to be an important part of the energy mix for the new millennium. Renewable energy supply, wind in particular, is very variable and you have a lot of difficulty feeding it into the grid, which like energy has to be supplied in a predictable way. So if instead you made hydrogen with the renewable energy, you could store the hydrogen, put that into fuel cells and then put that energy into the grid. Alternatively you could sell the hydrogen as a transport fuel, so hydrogen could enable a merging of the power generation and transport sectors.

If you take natural gas and turn it into hydrogen and put it in a fuel cell, you’d get a lot more miles than you would by taking the natural gas and burning it in an engine. You also get something like 30 per cent less CO2 emissions. It’s a much cleaner way of using that carbon source. Unfortunately, many people decide they’re either for or against the technology. Battery people for example often denigrate fuel cells because they see them as a sort of commercial threat, where they’re actually complementary technologies. There’s going to be a mix of cleaner technologies

JULY 2009 - 41

Green

with ENV

– oil and the internal combustion engine will not be replaced by with just one other technology, we’ll gradually replace it with a range of other things.

There is no one-size-fits-all technology, there is no silver bullet; but there could be said to be a range of ‘silver buckshot’ solutions.

Because this is the first fuel-cell bike, carrying the hydrogen posed some new questions. In a fuel-cell car the hydrogen’s somewhere on the floor at the back, where the petrol tank would be in the roof in the case of a bus. On a bike you’re sitting over the hydrogen tank, so that’s something that needs to be thought about – and all the safety and so on for all the various scenarios of what might happen to the bike in a crash. The bike wouldn’t be any more dangerous than a conventional motorcycle, but presents a different set of hazards to be considered.

BG: It’s a bit early to be talking about maintenance, but what would you need to do to keep the bike going?

JM: Probably the main thing would be the air filter. There are fewer moving parts than in a conventional engine, and where standard components are used, maintenance would be the same as for any other vehicle. Fuel cells are generally regarded as having reduced cost implications due to reduced maintenance needs. Moving parts are generally what cause your problems and the powergeneration part of a fuel cell works electro-chemically.

Making ENV hum In a fuel cell such as this, hydrogen gas is fed into one side of the cell while air is channelled to the other. The hydrogen is ducted to a catalyst (called the anode)

42 - JULY 2009

that splits the hydrogen atom into its basic component parts – proton and electron.

The protons pass through a membrane towards the cathode, while the electrons pass through an electrical circuit (providing power for the electric motor) and are then drawn to the cathode and join the reaction between the protons and oxygen molecules from the air stream to form water.

Each cell is designed with optimised surface area to help the reaction along.

ENV’s fuel cell has 48 of these reaction cells in what’s called a stack.

The operating principle is quite simple, and comparable to a lead/acid battery in its use of electron migration from anode to cathode to generate electrical energy. Unlike a lead/acid cell, however, a hydrogen fuel cell can run indefinitely – as long supplies of hydrogen and oxygen (air) are kept up to it.

Other than water, the only by-product of the reaction is heat, though as ENV’s operating temperature is around 40 Centigrade, it’s not a major problem.

In its present guise ENV has direct drive from the electric motor to back wheel. Jumping on board and twisting the throttle yields silent and fuss-free forward motion – as you’d expect from a motorcycle powered by an electric motor.

Acceleration is brisk and linear, with the bike snapping forward from a stop quite impressively.

Perhaps strangest of all is its behaviour when stationary. There is silence, and just a wisp of steam from the side-mounted exhaust where the fuel tank would be on a conventional bike. That puff of steam is entertaining, and, but for the Doctor Who-style instrument readout that offers

information on battery charge, hydrogen volume remaining and so on, it reminded me briefly of the steam-driven cars that enjoyed momentary popularity around the turn last century.

But disregard the looks, the quality of the ride and all the other issues that form part of the assessment process you’d use on a conventional bike. This is a prototype. The point surely is that ENV can propel its rider from A to B – forget how far or how fast – on hydrogen power.

It works.

– Bob Guntrip

Cycle Torque test – Kawasaki Ninja 250R

Sporty little starter A little bike with a big bike look. No wonder it’s the biggest selling bike in Australia.

KAWASAKI’S top-selling Ninja 250R has some big bike features in a small bike package, but this is just part of its appeal.

It gets that big bike look with the new full fairing which gets plenty of styling cues from its bigger brothers, the ZX10R and ZX-6R. The Ninja 250R is powered with a gutsy little four-stroke liquid-cooled parallel twin engine that won’t intimidate the first timer but still has enough power to fulfil its sporty promise once you’ve progressed in your technique and skill level.

The engine is a DOHC eight-valver with four valves per cylinder fed with Keihin CVK30 twin carbs that emit a nice growl through the upswept two-into-one exhaust.

Offering improved low and midrange torque this motor develops a lovely sweet spot between about 6000 and 7000rpm. At which point it’s just itching to get going - the Ninja redlines at 13,000. The engine sits in a steel tubular

diamond frame.

On the stand The fairing and styling look great. It has that nice supersport look about it and the two-stepped seat gives the rider a very comfortable seat height of 775mm.

The wheelbase is 1400mm and overall length is 2085mm. It actually looks like a much bigger bike than it is.

The petal discs look nice and offer a high performance touch. The front has a 290mm disc with two-piston calipers and the back is a 220mm with two-piston calipers and together are more than up to the task of pulling you up safely.

On the road The Ninja handles really well and inspires confidence with those 17 inch wheels and low profile tyres.

Handling is helped by the single gas-charged UNI-TRAK rear suspension while up the front 37mm fork tubes do the TEST BY PHOTOS BY

Dennis Penzo Nigel Paterson

JULY 2009 - 43

Cycle Torque test – Kawasaki Ninja 250R

Sporty little starter work.

The six-speed gearbox works well with nicely spaced gears working through a wet multi-disc manual clutch.

It’s not a heavy bike at 152kg dry and it carries an admirable 18 litres so there’s plenty of running around to be done between fuel stops.

We rode our Ninja in a variety of weather and road conditions and found it to be a very comfortable commuter that could unleash its sporty characteristics at the twist of the throttle.

The motor doesn’t feel like it’s straining or screaming at the upper ends of its operating capacity. It cruises along quite well at higher highway speeds or lower suburban requirements.

The bike has good visibility with well placed mirrors that don’t detract from the sporting looks.

On the eyes A very sporty looker and we really liked ours in Candy Thunder Blue, although it is also available in Metallic Diablo Black and Lime Green.

The fairing really sets off the overall look of this bike and you’d be hard put to judge what engine capacity it is at a quick glance and that’s part of the appeal to attract entry level riders who don’t want a bike that looks like a

44 - JULY 2009

“learner bike” but want something with a bit of sporty character.

Kawasaki’s bike sales have increased by 13 per cent in the first quarter of the current financial year and part of that result came from the Ninja 250 taking the number one sales spot in Australia for the first time.

It’s actually the 25th anniversary of the Ninja name appearing on a Kawasaki this year and the little 250R is well worthy of carrying the name.

On the pocket

Performance Pack model being offered

by Image Motorcycles comes in at $8790.

The Scorpion pipe is an interesting addition because it’s a little bit lighter than the standard pipe and adds a few more ponies. The result is a little bit more torque down low.

Test bike supplied by Image Motorcycles & Scooters, Pacific Highway, Wyoming on the Central Coast of NSW (02) 4322 7100.

Tradional analog instruments.

The good people at Image Motorcycles & Scooters on the Central Coast of NSW, who supplied our test bike, have produced a performance pack for the Ninja 250R. They are kitting out a selection of bikes with a seat cowl, normally priced at $185, a Scorpion muffler, normally $700 and a BMC Modern single-disc front end. airfilter, normally $120.

A standard Ninja 250R is $8490 ride away. The

S p e c i f i c at i o n s: 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 250R Engine: Liquid cooled 4-stroke, parallel twin/DOHC/8-valve/249cc/twin 30mm Keihin carbs/6-speed/Chain final drive Frame Type: Steel tubular diamond Seat Height: 775mm Fuel capacity: 18 litres Dry Weight: 152kg Front Suspension: 37mm conventional forks.

Rear Suspension: Uni-trak swingarm with single gas charged shock.

Price (RRP): $7,499 Call for a quote today free CALL

1 800 24 34 64

Your Motorcycle Insurance Specialists

Web: www.kawasaki.com.au

RIDING GEAR: Vemar helmet, Bikers Club Australia jacket, Cortech gloves, Draggin Chinos, Joe Rocket Big Bang boots.

JULY 2009 - 45

Cycle Torque test – KTM RC8R TEST BY

Chris Pickett

PHOTOS BY

Nigel Paterson

RIDING GEAR: KBC VR2 helmet; Joe Rocket leathers; Spyke gloves; Alpinestars boots.

A high revving V-twin in a compact chassis is K

The dash isn’t the easiest to read on the fly but there’s plenty of info on offer.

46 - JULY 2009

Rear view shows how slim the RC8R is.

The V-twin engine loves to rev.

The orange

e v i t a n r e alt

WHEN KTM’s RC8 first arrived over 12 months ago it set mouths agape with its angular styling and high revving V-twin engine. For 2009 KTM upped the ante again, adding a harder-edge, higher-specification model: the RC8 R. Priced at $31,995, the RC8 R has a slight increase in capacity, a little less weight, a big boost in horsepower and higher spec suspension.

On the stand At first look you would think the RC8 R is an angry, flighty and fast motorcycle. It also looks like a Stealth Bomber from the Gulf War. And with 170 horsepower and bucket loads of torque on tap it might just take off like one too.

If you lined up the RC8 and the RC8 R side by side the differences aren’t immediately visible. Most of them lay inside the engine. More capacity – 1195cc compared to 1148cc – from a two millimetre bigger bore and higher compression raise peak horsepower from 155 to 170.

Wheelbase is slightly shorter, 1425 compared to 1430 and the RC8 R weighs a couple of kilos less at 182kg.

KTM owns WP suspension so it’s only natural both bikes use WP. Forks on both bikes are 43mm fully adjustable units, while the ‘R’ forks have Tiain coated fork tubes for less stiction. On the rear it’s the same story, the ‘R’ gets different settings and tiain coating, as well as high/low speed compression damping. The rear shock also has a ride height adjuster via an eccentric linkage.

KTM’s answer to the mainstream sportsbike.

Footpegs are multi adjustable, as is the seat.

Lap timing by the button.

JULY 2009 - 47

More on the engine Now the 75 degree V-twin engine is a pretty serious bit of kit. The new larger cylinders are Nikasil-lined for long life, filled with forged Mahle pistons which take compression up to 13.5:1. In the head are 42mm titanium inlet valves and 34mm stainless steel exhaust valves.

Other newbies are longer duration camshafts, bigger radiator, redesigned water pump and a side-mounted oil cooler to help cool the bigger beast. The oil cooler works in conjunction with the dry sump engine’s separate oil tank to circulate the oil via three Eaton pumps.

An engine this potent likes good oil and lots of it. There’s no slipper clutch fitted, instead KTM uses a system on the Keihin fuel injection which dials in slightly extra revs on the overrun to counter engine braking. The effect is much the same as a slipper without the added bulk this type of system brings to the table.

With the first generation RC8 there were widely reported issues with the gearbox. Cycle Torque attended the Australian launch of that model at Eastern Creek and as only limited time was available on the bike we didn’t notice too many problems. There was

48 - JULY 2009

one or two missed gears during our two sessions but at the time we put this down to rider error rather than the machine. We never had the chance to ride the original RC8 on the road, so if the problem was as bad as reported we didn’t experience it. But checking out reports from the world launch of the new RC8 R it seems everyone loves the revised six-speed gearbox so we can only assume any problems have been sorted.

slab-sided fairing still allows a generous view of the engine. Lithe will nicely describe the thin tailpiece which has the tail light integrated. As with the first generation RC8 one of the major strong points is the adjustability of the riding position. Seat, handlebars and footpegs can all be moved generously to go from ‘track’ to ‘road’ spec. With the bike set to its ‘comfort’ setting you will experience perhaps the most comfortable pure sportsbike of the modern era.

Other mechanicals Keeping the rear end clean is the under Both bikes share the same tubular engine exhaust system which is almost chrome-moly steel chassis but the RC8 R entirely covered by the bellypan. How it has slightly different geometry due to the meets noise requirements is a mystery, reduced-offset triple clamps which give a it sounds phat. For the older of you out little more trail for increased stability at there you can translate that to tough. high speed.

For rider info the dash is very well Brembo monobloc four-piston calipers equipped. It’s not the easiest to read but are used at the pointy end, and the RC8 everything from lap times to the trip R’s discs a 0.5mm thicker to reduce heat meter is at your fingertips. distortion.

Forged alloy Marchesini wheels are On the road fitted, which helps make up some of the Wow, this thing cranks! There’s just no weight loss between the two models and other word to describe it. If 170 ponies in also helps change of direction on the ‘R’. a road motorcycle doesn’t excite you, you The bike’s bodywork is a mix of plastic are already dead. Power comes on strong and carbon fibre. On the 16.5 litre tank from about 4000rpm and doesn’t stop are a couple of ‘outriggers’ for want of a all the way to the rev limiter just over better term, which allow your knees to 10,500rpm. Out of corners the drive is tuck in nicely for extra control, and the exceptional but it’s not a wheelie hound.

Of course wheelstands on the RC8 R are child’s play but it’s all very controllable.

Where many other sports machines have you crying “enough” during the transport stages the RC8 R’s adjustable riding position makes for pleasant cruising. It’s even not too bad in heavy traffic, considering its uncompromising design.

When we first received the machine it was essentially in track trim. As soon as it was in Cycle Torque’s shed we dropped the foot pegs and raised the handlbars which made it nicer to ride on the road. A couple of days commuting and it was time to test it for real.

Down our favourite stretch of bitumen the bike was dynamite. Very stable pretty much everywhere, under hard acceleration, braking for 35km/h corners at much faster speeds and mid corner.

The only criticism of the suspension is it’s a little too hard for our roads in certain conditions. When the road opened up and so did the speeds, the bike’s hard suspension struggled to soak up sharp bumps mid corner. When we arrived at our turn

around spot we checked the suspension settings only to find both ends set for the race track not the road. Some deft playing with the screwdriver to five clicks off soft everywhere had us thinking it would be a major change. On the return journey it was better but still hard. On the smooth roads the forks and shock work brilliantly but for our crap roads they could be more compliant – which isn’t really surprising, this bike really is designed for smooth surfaced racetracks, and would be incredibly fast and tuneable, too. One thing we liked was the way you could change your line with ease, just put the bike basically anywhere you liked, it steered that good.

Some testers have talked about the on/off nature of the fuelling. We did notice this but it only upset the bike mid corner if you became a little ham-fisted with the throttle. KTM has two versions of the throttle, one for the track and one for the road. You actually get the spare throttle with the bike in the spares kit. The difference between them is the eccentric part of the throttle where the cable runs has a higher section on the road version which makes the throttle come on ‘slower’.

JULY 2009 - 49

The two testers who rode the bike had different views on the throttle and we talked about this in last month’s editorial column.

Basically, one of the two riders likes to dive deep into the corner under brakes and struggled to use the throttle to best effect. The other rider tends to use engine braking more and settles the bike on the throttle entering and mid corner. In a nutshell, one liked the throttle and one didn’t. Bear in mind this was only when riding at a very quick pace, and it also shows the idiosyncrasies you can get between testers.

50 - JULY 2009

Conclusion In our view this is one of the greatest sportsbikes we’ve ever had the pleasure to ride at Cycle Torque.

Of course we’ve been lucky enough to ride some awesome machines of this ilk. Bikes like Ducati’s 1098R and Desmosedici, Yamaha’s big bang R1 and of course Kawasaki’s latest ZX10R. All top machines in their own right, and sometimes for differing reasons. But there’s no mistaking the fact in our mind the RC8 R is right up there with them. If you are after a top level sportsbike go and test an RC8 R. You will be doing the bike and yourself a great disservice if you dismiss it. n

WP steering damper to keep the twitches at bay.

Parallel Evolution

Cycle Torque test – 2009 Yamaha WR450F

Yamaha’s WR450F is a great trail bike but it’s a great race bike too.

TEST BY

Matt Brown

PHOTOS BY

Chris Pickett JULY 2009 - 51

Parallel Evolution

environment. Yamaha seems to have found the right ingredients to the Formula.

Yamaha has proven how reliable its engines are over the years and the 5-Valve DOHC engine in the WR450F is no exception. The engine is constant through the rev range and excels in bottom to mid power. I’m sure Yamaha will dabble with fuel injection in the near future, but with the crisp throttle response from the 39mm flat-slide Keihin this bike didn’t need it.

We tested this bike on a combination of wide open grass tracks and tight one line trails. I can’t say this about too many bikes but I felt instantly comfortable on the bike in both environments. There’s a number Looks Fast of reasons for this. The fully adjustable 48mm forks If you were to replace the front light with a flat might be great for racing but for trail riding they plate you could be fooled into thinking you were are equally at home, plush enough for the Sunday looking at a YZF450 with indicators. This is probably rider yet able to cope with a very fast rider testing the most race ready of any of the 450 enduro bikes I its limits. Of course if you are a serious racer you have tested. Take the ADR off and you would pretty will want to look at setting up the forks to your much have a YZF with an 18 inch rear wheel, lower personal requirements. The same can be said of ground clearance different gearing and different cam the fully adjustable Kayaba shock – with high/low timing. The suspension is also valved softer for trail speed compression damping – which has a YZ-style and the pipe is different. linkage set-up. But I must say I had a bit of fun Around the bike you’ll find an on-the-fly clutch roosting the big rutted sweepers of the grass track. adjuster, Pro Taper Handlebars, electric start (with Renowned for its precise tight trail ability, the WRF kick start as well), a digital trip computer comes in has the ability to be rock solid in the open, although handy for any rider these days, no tool airbox, twowe did slow the rebound down to minimise any tone seat, YZF inspired plastics, wide footpegs and a rear end hop. Wave braking rotors are a practical very functional lightweight bashplate. addition to the package and have the ability to pull you up in a flash. The WRF 450 allows you to enjoy Engine, chassis, suspension your ride, rather than thinking too much about line I can see why this bike wins races in almost any choice.

SINCE the WR was introduced by Yamaha in 2003 it has evolved with its race relative – the YZF. It’s due to this progression of a race winning machine that the WRF has come to be so dominant in offroad racing.

True, the bike hasn’t really changed since last year, but if the bike has become so dominant and bullet-proof why mess with it, right? I’m sure that was the general consensus at the Australian Four Day Enduro when Yamaha won most classes at the event. At $12,999 + ORC the price is right in the ball park for a 450cc enduro bike which will last for years if maintained.

52 - JULY 2009

S p e c i f i c at i o n s : 2009 Yamaha WR450F Engine: Liquid cooled 4-stroke, single cylinder/DOHC/5-valve/449cc/39mm FCR carb/5-speed/Chain final drive Frame Type: Alloy perimeter Seat Height: 990mm Fuel capacity: 8 litre (plastic tank) Dry Weight: 123kg with 8 litres of fuel Front Suspension: 48mm Kayaba inverted forks, adjustable.

Rear Suspension: Kayaba, multiadjustable rear shock utilising a YZ-style linkage system.

Price (RRP): $12,999 + ORC www.yamaha-motor.com.au

Plastic bashplate is stronger than it looks.

YZ inspired alloy frame has been on the WR range for some time now.

Do not mistake the docile tones of the pipe with a bike that is going slow. Yamaha has done its bit for the environment and kept noise pollution to a minimum which should help our campaign to avoid land closures.

Vertically challenged riders will also appreciate a lower seat height without sacrificing cockpit comfort for taller riders.

Fun times

Why do we ride bikes? Because it’s fun! And that’s what I think Yamaha has given us with its WRF. It does everything you would want a modern four-stroke to do. It starts trouble free with the push of a button hot or cold, you can blast big sand berms without losing your front end and still have time to look back to check roost height.

Instant throttle response raises your

450cc engine is well proven for reliability and power. front wheel before you get to water (sorry for the splash Hoppo), and we even launched it over MX style doubles trying to pretend our whips looked like the ones of James Stewart’s YouTube footage on his practice track. Yes we had fun. n

JULY 2009 - 53

WileyX Bike Pix competition

Here’s John Oirbans daughter and new son-in-law enjoying some time in the saddle on his delectable Norton Commando 750S. Deep metalflake paint, parallel twin engine, high pipes. It doesn’t get much better than that.

Barry Jon Gray took the pic and gave it his own touch. It looks as though the wedding day was made just that little bit more special by the Norton.

Previous winning images: www.cycletorque.com.au

54 - JULY 2009

Cycle Torque and WileyX Eyewear have teamed up to offer Cycle Torque readers the chance to win a pair of fabulous WileyX glasses up to the value of $269.95.

Just email us a motorcycle oriented photograph (maximum 5MB in size) to chris@cycletorque.com.au. Include a short description of the photograph of about 50 words and send it in. Don’t forget to include your details so we can contact you if you are the lucky monthly winner!

Your photograph can cover anything of a motorcycling nature. It could be a photograph taken during a ride with mates, or of an exotic bike you spotted somewhere, or perhaps taken on a road trip. We’re keen to see dirt bikes, road bikes, race bikes and (importantly) the people who ride them. Funny, interesting or action-packed images are the likely winners.

WileyX has a huge range of glasses in its lineup, about 50 models in fact, and you could be wearing one of them if your photograph is selected to be published in the Cycle Torque WileyX Bike Pix Competition.

The competition is ongoing so keep your camera handy. If you want to see more of the WileyX range of shatterproof prescriptionable eyewear just check out www.wileyx.com.au or ring 1300 782 990. n

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Yes / No Sidecar:

Total Quantity Each When do you anticipate arriving?

Yes / No

Email Address:

Awards given include:

Postcode: Suburb:

$ $20 Saturday

Longest distance—Male, Female, Pillion, Single, Outfit, Club Plate, Stuffed Cat, American, British, Ducati, European (other than Ducati), Asia/India/ Subcontinent bikes.

Oldest combined bike and rider. Largest Club attendance and Hard luck. Great Raffle Prizes

Mobile: Phone No.: Hm:

Year: Model: Make of Motorcycle:

Entry only—includes badge and sticker.

Entry with T-shirt, badge and sticker.

Friday

Street Name: House No:

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All awards will be determined by the most direct route from postcode and any other relevant information off your pre-payed entry, to minimise confusion prior to awards being given, with the exception of the hard luck award. Those entering on the day that wish to contend in a specific category will need to notify the organisers at the registration tent and provide relevant verification (eg.: fuel receipts or log book etc.) to over rule a pre determined category. One award per entry only. All decisions made regarding the awards by the organisers will be final.

Directions

Ride towards Nundle, south east To of Tamworth (37 kms off the New Sh e b England Highway). a Da m s� From Nundle, follow the signs to the site at Sheba Dams � Pu b Recreation Area (approx. 9 kms from town). The road rises 300m Nundle in 6 kms. It’s picturesque and has lots of corners, so take care! If you hit dirt, you’ve gone too far! Alternative routes include the Oxley Highway or Via Gloucester/Nowendoc.

The standard of behaviour is left to the individual but don’t spoil it for others. Transportation of sleeping bags, etc., is available via the DOCNSW club trailer, leaving Sydney, Tuesday, 6th October. Please contact Panorkle to arrange drop off times.

No cars or dogs please.

For more information, contact— Aunty Mal: 0404 002 427 Panorkle: 0425 283 234 (panorkle1@bigpond.com) (panorkle@bigpond.com)oror Taffy: 0408 466 140 (bevelhed@exemail.com.au) or or visit our website www.docnsw.org.au

28th ANNUAL THUNDER RALLY ENTRY FORM First Name: Surname:

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Petrol

The Ducati Owners Club of New South Wales Inc. encourages safe riding, but accidents do happen. By attending this event you accept that the club and the members including, but not limited to, all rallygoers, and others, bear no liability whatsoever from any incident.

�To Tamworth

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Entries must be received by 27th September, 2009 to pick up T-shirt and badge at the rally.

All entries received after 27th September, 2009 may not be processed until after the rally.

Payment methods are by Cheque, Postal Money Order, or Cash in Person. Payment can also be made by Direct Bank Deposit. Direct Bank deposit details are: The Thunder Rally Organisers, Westpac Bank, BSB 032179, Acc. No. 239893.

All direct bank deposit entrants to self-print out a transaction receipt, and identify their transaction by including their FULL NAME as part of the direct bank deposit transactions thank you.

JULY 2009 - 55