Motor Cycle Monthly May 2014

USED BIKES HONDA HORNET & KAWASAKI GPZ900R

PLUS NEW LITHIUM BIKE BATTERY TECHNOLOGY TRIED & TESTED

WIN DUNLOP

RUBBER FIVE PAIRS OF

FTARKEEMEE

SPORTSMARTS WORTH £1250

May 2014

HOME

BARGAIN!

Expert advice on how to bag a top bike P24

TENERE

Yamaha’s refined new adventurer on test P20

FIX IT UP How to keep your bike

running at its best P22

MCM is FREE in dealers, clubs and biker cafes

VFR

Less weight, more tech: Honda’s flagship 800 gets reinvented

2

NEWS 3

A nod from the editor Motor Cycle Monthly, Media Centre, Morton Way, Horncastle, Lincs LN9 6JR Tel: 01507 529529 Email:editorial@ motorcyclemonthly.co.uk Editor John Milbank Staff writer Carli Ann Smith Editorial design Tracey Barton Publisher Steve Rose Group production editor Tim Hartley Divisional advertising manager Sandra Fisher Advertising Dawn Clay Marketing manager Charlotte Park Production manager Craig Lamb Publishing director Dan Savage Commercial director Nigel Hole Associate director Malcolm Wheeler Advertising deadline for June issue May 2, 2014

Subscribe to MCM and just pay the postage!

Call 01507 529529 or visit classicmagazines.co.uk/MCM or email help@classicmagazines.co.uk

Motor Cycle Monthly is published monthly on the last Friday of the month by Mortons Media Group Ltd and printed by Mortons Print Ltd.

Independently proven pick up: 67,717 copies

I’M not really sure how it happened, but all of a sudden, my garage is full again. When our daughter was born almost five years ago, I soon stopped riding. It’s a common theme among many bikers – family life takes over, and before they know it, their bikes have gone.

I thought I’d finished with bikes, but last year the bug bit again, and it bit hard. Now I find myself with a Honda CBR600, a Yamaha WR250F dirt bike, a Honda Vision 50, and the real prize… a 2014 Z1000SX. This one’s on loan from Kawasaki, so I intend to make the most of my time with it – from the daily commute to a lads’ holiday in Scotland, it’s going to see some serious use.

The Zed is already proving a stunning bike to ride – the 140bhp is more than enough for some fun trips out, but the bike’s always composed and gentlemanly. When the going’s wet and slippery, I switch over to the low-power mode: It just takes the edge off the engine’s delivery, giving a little more confidence on greasy roundabouts.

I’m a big fan of hard luggage when I’m commuting, and the optional panniers complement the bike perfectly.

Unfortunately, despite them each holding a full-face lid, the angular design makes it difficult to get all I want in there.

Adding a little extra width to the bike, I also find filtering a bit more nerve-wracking, so when it comes to the hundreds of miles, and several hotels we’ll be visiting in Scotland, I’ll probably opt for some throwover soft panniers and try the cheaper topbox. The Z1000SX has been a great way to

enjoy biking with my wife again. When we met, she wouldn’t let me go over 60mph (punishable by a punch in the ribs), but these days, when we find a spare moment to take advantage of together, she loves the green tourer. It’s already proving itself a brilliant all-rounder, and with the 600 mile service out of the way, I’m looking forward to a lot of great adventures with it.

As you’ll see over the page, we’re really excited about our new website – www.morebikes.co.uk. It’s full of the latest launch reports, reviews, events and blogs, and will complement the paper. Don’t worry; MCM will always be FREE in dealers, clubs and biker cafes, and we still love to hear from you. Check out the website every day for the latest news, and make sure you take the opportunity to add your comments to the posts. Send us your bike and kit reviews too (see the MoreBikes.co.uk for details), and share your local bike meets and events.

John Milbank Editor

CONTRIBUTORS Carli Ann Smith finds her way Staff writer Carli has been working hard on some great posts for our new website – www.morebikes.co.uk – but she’s also been testing a new Harley-Davidson sat nav (on her KTM390). Check out her review on page 12.

Bruce Wilson rides the new VFR800 Deputy editor of our sister mag, Motorcycle Sport and Leisure, Bruce has been busy testing the new flagship Honda. Check out his review, and if you want even more technical detail on the bike, grab a copy of June’s MSL. James Matthews returns from an epic adventure When an MCM reader and his friends planned a biking holiday, they didn’t make it easy on themselves. Read his story of 16,000 miles, and 40 countries over three and a half months on page 31.

Simon Hargreaves rides the Super Ténéré Yamaha’s latest adventure bike is heading for a fight over BMW’s GS territory. The Japanese rival might not have the power of the German behemoth, but its mildmannered ride could just win you over.

Download great magazines today!

Go to www.mortons.co.uk/apps to see our great range of modern and classic bike mags. You can read them anywhere – on your tablet, phone or home computer, from just £2.99.

4 NEWS

Get the hottest news first Update your bookmarks: morebikes.co.uk is the exciting new website from Motor Cycle Monthly…

IF YOU want the latest bike reviews, news, events and kit, check out our new website: morebikes.co.uk Motor Cycle Monthly has, for a long time, been the UK’s favourite bike monthly. With an average of 67,717 bikers picking it up every month, the FREE paper you hold in your hands is the most popular in the country, thanks to the more than 1000 dealers, clubs and biker cafes that stock it.

While you’ll still always get the best bike reviews and the most fascinating articles right here at no charge, we know that sometimes four weeks can seem like an eternity…

From now on, morebikes.co.uk will feature the new bike launch reports as they happen; kit reviews; events; know-how and compelling blogs to enjoy every day. You’ll find

a mixture of the best photography, great videos, and the hottest kit news the moment we hear about it.

MCM and morebikes.co.uk editor, John Milbank, had this to say: “I’m incredibly excited about the new website. I love reading newspapers and magazines, so there’s no plan to change the best free bike paper.

However, morebikes.co.uk gives us the chance to bring you more photos, more video and more great stories that we simply can’t fit into the paper.

“Whether it’s a new piece of kit that’s just been released, a biking event to visit, or a motorcycle launch, you’ll be able to read all about it at morebikes.co.uk “Staff writer Carli and I have teamed up with our sister magazines – Motorcycle Sport & Leisure and Twist

& Go – to make sure we’re bringing you the best new stories, and you can also expect blogs from us, as well as some top names in biking.

“Motor Cycle Monthly is devoted to bringing you the best news in motorcycling, and that’s set to expand even further online with morebikes.co.uk. Just like you, we

Join us at the fantastic Carole Nash Great Scottish Bike Show in August THE show, on August 9-10, 2014, is set to be a great family weekend. Based at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, Edinburgh, guests of honour include Giacomo Agostini and Alex George.

See The Purple Helmets stunt team, and watch the Scottish Supermoto riders showcasing their talent, along with a live band throughout the day.

Why not bring your club along to the show? We’re offering free stand space for clubs, and free machine entry for bikes entered privately. There’s also two free weekend tickets and onsite camping for each exhibitor; awards for top machines, including cash prizes and magazine subscriptions. Highly commended rosettes are available for best machines

not winning major awards. Club stands voted first, second and third will take home £750, £500 and £250 respectively, and there’s a free commemorative mug for each exhibitor.

An application form can be downloaded from the ‘bookings’ section on www.classicbikeshows.com or contact Glynis Roberts on 01507 529431.

love bikes, from scooters and commuters, to adventure and sports; new and used, young and old.”

So, make sure you bookmark morebikes.co.uk on your computer, tablet or phone.

Bring your friends, and join the team at what promises to be the fastest-growing bike website…

NEWS 5

New model for Yamaha’s ‘New Mobility’ segment THIS new three-wheeler is the latest, and so far the only, model in Yamaha’s ‘New Mobility’ segment, aimed at riders looking for a practical, convenient and easy way of getting around.

The 125cc model benefits from a new Leaning Multi Wheel mechanism developed by Yamaha, and a unified brake system, which distributes the braking force to the front and back discs using input from both levers.

Weighing just 152kg, the threewheeler is lightweight and economical – thanks to the newly developed four-stroke liquid-cooled engine. It features a CVT transmission, a 6.6-litre fuel tank, lightweight cast-alloy wheels, LED position and taillight and has storage space for a full-face helmet under the seat.

Available in red, grey, white and black, the Tricity will be available in the summer and is expected to cost around £3400.

For more information visit: www.yamaha-motor.co.uk

2014 BMW Motorrad GS Trophy UK Qualifier announced OVER the Sunday and Monday of the bank holiday weekend of May 25-26, BMW owners have the chance to earn themselves one of the three places in the once-in-alifetime international final of the BMW Motorrad GS Trophy in Canada.

Taking place at the BMW Off Road Skills centre in South Wales, with an entry cost of £99 per rider, the qualifier is open to amateur riders who own any model of BMW motorcycle. Places can be reserved online, by calling 08000 131 282 or by emailing bmw@worldofbmw.com There are limited places available on a one-day refresher course on Saturday, May 24 priced at £249. For more information, go to www.MoreBikes.co.uk/bmwtrophy

Tour de France:

Roads disruption Monday, July 7, 2014 LONDON bikers please note: On Monday, July 7 Stage 3 of the Tour de France travels through North, East and Central London, passing along the Thames and finishing on The Mall.

The route starts in Cambridge around midday, passing through Great Shelford, Saffron Walden and close to Braintree and Chelmsford then through Epping. It moves into Greater London via Woodford Green, Chingford, Walthamstow and Snaresbrook before approaching Central London via Leyton, Stratford, West Ham, Plaistow, Silvertown, Leamouth, Poplar, Wapping and Shadwell.

The final leg sees the riders pass the Tower of London then along the Thames towards Victoria Embankment before riding past the Houses of Parliament, around St James’s Park and finishing on The Mall at around 3.30pm.

The roads on the route will close from 10am for most of the day and will re-open ‘when safe to do so’.

For a map of the route from the M25 to The Mall, go to: www.MoreBikes.co.uk/london-disruption

Don’t miss the Mallory Bike Bonanza THE Mallory Bike Bonanza (July 11-13) promises static displays of the various owners’ clubs, through to on-track action with parades for all ages of machines, including an MV Agusta in the hands of the legendary Giacomo Agostini.

The Italian, winner of 15 world titles, makes a nostalgic return to the Leicestershire circuit where he was thwarted in his efforts to take the ‘Race of the Year’ trophy for a third time by local hero John Cooper in 1971. Cooper will be reunited with Agostini on track in the special parades scheduled over the weekend.

Expect to see Trevor Nation and Michael Dunlop aboard the Rotary Nortons, while James Westmoreland and three-time British Superbike Champion Ryuichi Kiyonari, switch from their Buildbase BMW to ride Grand Prix bikes. Westmoreland will put a Ducati MotoGP machine through its paces while Kiyonari will be aboard a former Kenny Roberts’ 500GP Yamaha.

A major autojumble, opening on Friday, will be popular for those seeking elusive spares for their bike rebuild, with owners’ club displays each giving the opportunity to chat and discover more about the club and the bikes.

Sporting action will centre on a classic trial, and there’ll be chat shows and live music on Friday and Saturday as the organisers look to make the Mallory Bike Bonanza the complete ‘bikers’ weekend’. Details of the event will appear as they are announced on the circuit’s new website, www.malloryparkcircuit.com If you want to ride your bike at the Mallory Bike Bonanza then please contact Mallory Park direct on 01455 502 214 or email info@realmotorsport.co.uk for an entry form.

Rolling exemption from VED for vehicles over 40 years old IT WAS good news for the owners of vehicles over 40 years old when the budget was announced – there will now be a rolling exemption from liability to pay Vehicle Excise Duty (VED).

The Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs was also pleased that the Government has specifically recognised its position and pointed to research undertaken by the FBHVC and the Historic Vehicle Research Institute.

New era for Jawa

THE sole UK importer for Jawa motorcycles has announced the introduction of the Jawa 660 Sportard.

With a 48bhp engine from Minarelli and suspension by Paioli, this four-stroke offering from Jawa is made in the Czech Republic. It has a five-speed gear box, boasts a 17-litre fuel tank and claims an average 55mpg. You can get your hands on the bikini-faired bike for £6745.

For more details visit: www.jawamotorcycles.co.uk

6 NEWS

Thundersprint 2014 THERE’S never been such a wide range of GP stars, young and old, gathered at one single event… don’t miss the 2014 Thundersprint at Darley Moor, near Ashbourne in Derbyshire (10-11 May).

At the head of the list is Scott Redding, fresh from his seventh place at Losail in his first ever MotoGP race: “I’ve ridden at the Thundersprint twice before and I honestly loved every minute of it. GP racing is a serious business – my mind is entirely focused on winning, and I really miss the chance to mix with the fans. The Thundersprint is a giant, two-day party for anyone who loves bikes.”

Sharing the track with Scott will be World Supersport Champion Sam Lowes, and TT Legend John McGuinness. Leading the classic

entry is six-time World Champion, six-time TT winner and the first person to win three GPs in a day – the incredible Jim Redman.

Scott, Jim and the other stars will be on the track for two days and they will all be taking part in the hill climb on Sunday afternoon.

There’s a huge trade area, fine food court and Europe’s biggest inflatable fun centre. For many, the highlight of the weekend will come on Sunday lunchtime with a full aerobatic display by a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Spitfire.

Gates open at noon on Friday, May 9. A weekend admission ticket is £10 and camping for the weekend is £20. Well-behaved pets, and kids, come in for free. For more information go to www.thundersprint.com or phone 01928 740 498.

Looking for something ‘Superior’?

Try Bonhams’ Stafford sale A 1939 BROUGH Superior SS100 owned by the designer himself, George Brough, goes under the hammer at the Bonhams’ Stafford sale on April 27, with an estimate of £140,000-180,000.

Only two days after its registration on May 24, 1939, and attached to a sidecar, the ‘FTV 702’ took part in the London-Edinburgh endurance run piloted by George with Motor Cycling journalist Henry Laird in the ‘chair’.

Laird’s article about the event was published in Motor Cycling’s edition of June 14, 1939, a copy of which is supplied with the machine.

You can read the original article at www.morebikes.co.uk/?s=Brough Brough put the motorcycle to use throughout 1939, which included various road tests and the Tour of Ireland as well as the London-Edinburgh. In April 1945, the Brough Superior was advertised for sale in Motor Cycling for £200.

The current owner’s father bought it for £70 and registered it on August 14, 1961. Placed in storage in 1967, the motorcycle has been in

sporadic use since then, but has been well maintained over the years.

Bonham’s Stafford Sale will take place at the 34th Carole Nash International Classic MotorCycle show on April 27. For more information on the show visit: www.classicbikeshows.com

Motorcycle Safety Action Plan launched by TfL THE Mayor of London and Transport for London (TfL) have published the capital’s first Motorcycle Safety Action Plan designed to directly reduce the number of collisions involving motorcyclists and scooter riders.

The plan itself will combine more enforcement, innovative safety trials and new design guidance for junctions to help reduce collisions as well as some hard-hitting road safety campaigns to help reduce right-turn collisions and speeding.

Over the last decade, the number of riders killed in London has halved, but it’s still disproportionately high in comparison with the total percentage of road users made up of PTWs. The plan contains 29 key actions and includes promoting the use of Personal Protective Equipment worn by motorcyclists, further safety and training elements to be included in the CBT and motorcycle licence test and a new code for motorcycle couriers. As well as clamping down on dangerous behaviour such as turning across motorcyclists at junctions.

For more information on the work TfL is carrying out to improve motorcycle safety, visit www.tfl.gov.uk/roadsafety

7

8 NEWS

Help biking for just 79p: it could mean so much MAG’s director of comms and public affairs, Lembit Öpik, has officially launched the organisation’s new anthem, It Means So Much, by singer ‘Stranger.’

New Honda inspired by ‘Japanimation’ IT MIGHT look like a concept drawing, but this is a full production 745cc twin-cylinder 54bhp machine from Honda: the new NM4 Vultus.

Created by a young design team, which was inspired by the machines seen in the anime and manga television, the futuristic two-wheeler is equipped with Dual Clutch Transmission giving riders the option between automatic twist-and-go mode – plus a trigger-operated manual mode.

While the 245kg machine might only be available in matt black, the colour of the digital dash can be changed depending on the drive mode selected – there are 25 individual colours to choose from.

There’s plenty of storage with lockable compartments and optional rear panniers. It features LED lights,

an 11.6-litre fuel tank, ABS and a rear pillion seat that flips upright providing the rider with a secure backrest.

Prices and availability haven’t yet been announced but it is thought that there will be limited numbers being brought into the UK. For more information visit: www.honda.co.uk/motorcycles

I’M TIRED of motorcycles being ignored in transport policies.

So, we’ve come up with a plan, I’m asking for your help and it will cost you just 79 pence. All it takes is for you and your friends to buy one song – It Means So Much – by Stranger… and that’s it.

Buying an anthemic tune with a compelling beat, dedicated to the love of riding is the deal here.

It will introduce a new generation to the excitement of powered two-wheelers, while making a statement to policy makers that five million citizens with a full motorcycle licence are beginning to stir.

That’s a lot of people, a lot of votes, and a lot of pressure in our favour in the political system.

Why a song? Because music reflects the vibrancy of biking. And it’s at the heart of popular culture, where riding should be celebrated in all its glory.

You’ve probably heard the artist, known as Stranger, before, though you may not have known it. He’s done world tours with Celine Dion and James Blunt. Now he’s gone solo and launched his career with this pro-bikers’ piece.

Check him out at stranger-music.com And please, please pre-order it through that website or straight through iTunes – just search for ‘It Means So Much’ and buy the version by ‘Stranger.’ Or if you’re IT smart, scan the QR code in this edition of MCM. As long as we have enough pre-orders by May 4, we’re guaranteed a chart position. Remember, it’s 79p and a few minutes of your time. I hope you’ll buy it.

9

10

DON’T MISS 11

What’s on... and where to go Summer is just round the corner and the sun is shining… We’ve pulled together a list of all the events planned for the rest of the year on our shiny new website – MoreBikes.co.uk – where you can submit your own event too. Here’s a selection for May 2014…

Friday, May 2 – Monday, May 5 Guy Martin’s Big Brew All over the UK, bikers will be sticking the kettle on and raising money for Spinal Research. Visit your local dealer, club or cafe and enjoy a cuppa – and make a donation. There are also prizes available, including the chance to meet Guy. More info: www.guymartinbigbrew.org

Saturday, May 3 – Monday, May 5 British Superbikes – Oulton Park The BSB heads to the picturesque circuit of Oulton Park (CW6 9BW) for the second round of the Championship. More info: www.britishsuperbike.com or call 01829 760301.

Thursday, May 8 Royal British Legion Charity Bike Nights in Truro Every Thursday evening until September 4, The Kernow Squadron of the RBLR will be holding its bike nights from 6.30pm. There will be live bands and trade stands including Triumph and HarleyDavidson. More info: www.rblr-kernowsquadron.co.uk

Thursday, May 8 Rattlesden Five Bells Bike Show Entry is £3 – with all proceeds going to the British Bikers Relief Foundation. Live band, helmet park and trophies for the best bikes.

Event opens at midday and runs until 4pm. More info: facebook.com/fivebellsbikeshow

Saturday, May 10 Clive Motorcycle Club – 20th Welsh National Rally The rally involves riders visiting manned and unmanned control points throughout Wales. Breakfast and hot drinks will be available at the start/finish in Castle Caereinion.

Registration is required. More info: www.clivemcc.co.uk

Sunday, May 11 Midshire Grasstrack Club – Master of Midshire Grasstrack racing – practice session at 11.30am and racing at 1pm.

Admission: £12 Adults / £10 concessions and children under 16 accompanied by an adult go free.

More info: www.midshiresgrasstrack.com

Saturday, May 24 – Sunday, May 25

The Wheels Festival in Bournemouth The seafront will celebrate all things

MCM

RECOMMENDS

on wheels. Events are taking place in different ‘arenas’ – including monster trucks on the beach and racing cars on the cliff top! Entry to the festival site is free. More info: www.bournemouth.co.uk

Sunday, May 25 World Superbike Championship – Donington The only UK round for the WSBK riders will take place at Donington Park – DE74 2RP. More info: www.worldsbk.com

Monday, May 26 Margate Meltdown The 7th Margate Meltdown is a free to attend rideout. Starting from the iconic Ace Cafe (NW10 7UD) to Margate in Kent, the seafront is given over to motorcycles, scooters and live bands. More info: www.rblr.co.uk

Do you have an event you want to shout about?

Simply visit MoreBikes.co.uk/events to have it listed on the website and for the chance to have it listed in the events section in the paper.

Last minute changes are out of our control, so we advise you check details with the organisers before making your trip.

Bike 1066 has been running in Hastings since 1979.

Bike 1066 Opener Monday, May 5

For 36 years, thousands of bikers have made a pilgrimage on May Day to welcome in the spring on Hastings Sea front. But this isn’t an invasion or battle, the bikers and motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the country have turned the annual Mayday Run into the biggest free motorcycle festival in the UK. With over 32,000 bikes and 76,000 people in the town, Hastings now attracts more bikers in one day than the Isle of Man TT does in a fortnight.

It all started way back in 1979, when Tim Gooderson, a 21-year-old electronics engineer, got together with some mates to ride from Locksbottom

in Kent to Hastings, to celebrate the new May Day bank holiday. On that first Mayday Run (as Tim called it) there were about 200 bikes. This year will mark the 36th anniversary and up to 40,000 are expected.

Since 2010 the local council in Hastings has been working with bike1066, a local company that promotes motorcycle tourism, to develop the event with traders and exhibitors, live music in local pubs and a giant video screen in the town centre that offers live coverage of the BSB racing from Oulton Park.

More info: www.bike1066.com

12 PRODUCTS

TANRD TEIEST D

Harley-Davidson Road Tech Zumo GPS

Tested by: Carli Ann Smith ED RRP: £412 More info: www.harley-davidson.co.uk or call 0871 641 2508 My geographical knowledge is shocking. I’ve always had to keep to places I know when heading out on the bike – or stick a map on to the tank as I did on my first day at work.

Now I have this waterproof sat nav it’s opened up a new world of adventure. Its 4.3in colour screen is easy to read and simple to operate, and comes complete with a mounting cradle, charger, car suction mount, power cable, USB cable, battery pack.

I’ve used it in the UK and abroad (it has European maps loaded), I’ve had six hours of battery life from it. Its glove friendly touch screen means you don’t need bare hands to use it. You can add up to 1000 favourite locations (plus all the Harley dealer locations are pre-programmed) and it has an mp3 player, picture viewer, unit converter and Bluetooth connectivity for your phone. I wouldn’t be without it now and only wish I’d got one sooner.

Vespa Scooters – The Essential Buyer’s Guide App

YSS suspension for Honda PCX 125

RRP: £152.74 More info: www.wemoto.com or call 01273 597072 These emulsion gas twin shock absorbers come with threaded preload adjustment and are designed to carry a load of 90-110kg. They’re heat treated and welded twice for extra strength, with a brushed aluminium finish cover at the end.

Fitment requires no adjustment.

SHARK Vision-R Series 2 helmet

RRP: From £219.99 More info: www.nevis.uk.com or call 01425 478936 Designed with touring riders in mind, the helmet features a large panoramic view and has a ventilation system with improved airflow and bigger vents. The visor has an auto-seal system which offers reduced noise and, can be opened into a demist position. The lining is removable and washable.

Available in a variety of styles and colours.

RRP: Base price £1.99 More info: www.digital.veloce.co.uk or call 01305 260068 Including expert advice, images and video on all aspects of buying a Vespa, this new app helps you avoid the main pitfalls when purchasing. It features an evaluation calculator and you can store key information, notes and images of scooters you view for reference. Also available as a book.

New Hevik clothing range

More info: www.hevik.co.uk or call 01327 706220 Hevik has introduced a technical long sleeved shirt (£44.90) and trousers (£36.30), made from Dryarn and carbon fibre, which aim to regulate body temperature no matter what the weather. There’s also a two-piece rain suit (£39.90) with heat sealed seams and reflective strips and riding jeans for men and women (£129.90) which come complete with hip protection, Kevlar reinforcements on the back and knees and CE approved protectors.

Xena XGA Ground Anchor

RRP: £50 More info: www.motohaus.com or call 01256 704909 Easy to fit and requiring just one bolt, the XGA has been awarded the Gold Standard by SoldSecure. It can be fixed to a wall or floor – inside or out – and features a fold flat design so it won’t get in the way when not in use. The base rotates 360º meaning locks and chains can be passed through easily.

TANRD TEIEST D ED

Puig double-bubble smoked screen

Tested by: John Milbank RRP: £69.49 More info: www.pyramid-plastics.co.uk or call 01427 677990 The screen on my 2000 CBR600 had a nasty chip out of it, so I took the opportunity to fit a double-bubble screen from Puig – the Spanish specialist with 50 years’ experience. Avoiding the sharp shape of some double-bubbles, I love the flowing design of this quality screen, which helps lift the air above your head. The very dark finish looks great against my black CBR, but a racer mate prefers a clear screen – when you’re tucked behind it, you can’t see through very easily. Try as I might though, I never get that low to the tank, so I don’t find it an issue. Easy to fit, and very nicely made, the Puig (pronounced pooch) is a quality piece of kit. Check out our video at www.MoreBikes.co.uk/fittingscreen

PRODUCTS 13 New colours for Davida helmets

Limited edition Rossi AGV helmet

RRP: £799 More info: www.agv.co.uk or call 01773 864420 Rossi’s AGV Pista GP lid at the Sepang tests had his face on the back… now a limited edition Corsa is available with the same design. It features a full ventilation system, breathable, adjustable and washable lining, quick release visor system, removable nose guard, windproof chin protection and Double D ring fastener.

Knox Handroid gloves

RRP: From £285 More info: www.davida.co.uk or call 01516 472419 Using traditional techniques, Davida applies more than nine coats of lacquer to achieve the new Cosmic Flake finish on its open-face, leather lined helmets. Available in silver, red, burgundy, yellow, green, blue and orange.

TANRD TEIESTD ED

Performance Machine Vintage Calipers

RRP: Around £439.72 More info: www.mageurope.net or call 0161 3374390 PM has fused its modern braking tech with styling cues from the original Dual Action Cast calipers that put the company on the map back in the 1970s. Available for most 84-14 HarleyDavidson models, the units feature CNC-machined fins which help keep the caliper cool, provide braking power and add to the style. Accent bolts are available in chrome and black, red and blue.

TRIED

Tested by: John Milbank AND TESTED RRP: £169.99 More info: www.planet-knox.com or call 01900 825825 In 18 years, these are the most comfortable gloves I’ve worn. Described as ‘creepy’ by my wife, the flexible spines on the tops of the fingers slide in and out as you move your hand. They’re not just a gimmick though – every part of the glove is designed to slide in a crash, helping to prevent your hand ‘grabbing’ on the Tarmac: a major cause of scaphoid damage.

Approved to the new CE prEN 13594-2012 standard for professional use, the gloves have been independently tested in 15 areas, including tear and cut resistance; seam strength; restraint; impact resistance; dexterity; breathability and dye fastness.

The palms are kangaroo hide, allowing them to be thinner than cow hide, for the same level of protection (kangaroos only sweat from their tails, so there are no pores in the leather used). Designed as a race glove, the fit is tight when you first put them on, but they needed just 10 minutes of breaking-in before they fitted like, well, a glove. The fingers are exactly the right length for my hands, but most importantly, I no longer get numb digits. For many years, I’ve suffered tingling in my first and second fingers when riding: while I’m pretty sure I’ll have to have my carpal tunnel cleared out at some point (too many years driving a computer), the perfect fit has been such a relief. Combined with the ‘dial-in’ Boa closure system on the armoured cuff, these come thoroughly recommended. Look out for our video review on www.MoreBikes.co.uk

AIRHAWK DS seat cushion for adventure bikes

RRP: £169.99 More info: www.motohaus.com or call 01256 704909 Manufactured from neoprene, the cushion distributes pressure evenly and absorbs the vibration from the engine. The air pressure inside can be increased or decreased to suit the rider and conditions by the valves on either side. Two year warranty.

The Essential Buyer’s Guide: Triumph Thunderbird, Trophy and Tiger RRP: £12.99 ISBN: 978-1-845846-09-1 More info: www.veloce.co.uk or call 01305 260068 Pete Henshaw’s new 64 page book, from Veloce Publishing Ltd, covers all you need to know about the bikes, including market values, step by step inspection guides, guidance on spares prices, advice on buying at an auction and a whole host of other useful information.

Weise Venus Ladies jacket

Tested by: Carli Ann Smith RRP: £169.99 More info: www.thekeycollection.co.uk or call 0117 971 9200 When I found myself riding through a huge thunderstorm – complete with lightning and hail – I winced as I knew it was only a matter of time before I felt the water trickle inside my jacket.

After 115 miles, I was home – warm and dry! This great textile jacket, made from 500 denier polyester, is now my riding companion on my daily 70 mile commute, and has since racked up some serious miles. It features removable CE approved armour at the shoulders, elbow and back, and three internal waterproof pockets (which work!). I love the removable neck tube – it’s furry, warm and has got rid of the need for a separate neckerchief.

14 LETTERS

HAVE YOUR SAY Talking the torque

Having read John Milbank’s article in April’s MCM on doing an oil change, I was wondering if there was a mistake in the price of the Sealey torque wrench he uses: £179.94 seems an incredible price to pay.

A similar Sealey wrench ranging from 7-112Nm is available on Amazon for under £30 which would surely

cover the majority of motorcycle requirements.

Brian Young Northumberland

We want to hear from you! Whether you’ve got a great riding tip, an interesting story to tell, or simply need to get something off your chest, get in touch today. email: editorial@motorcyclemonthly.co.uk Post: Your letters, Motor Cycle Monthly, Mortons Media Group Ltd, Media Centre, Morton Way, Horncastle, Lincs LN9 6JR Or why not post on our Facebook page. It’s a great chance to get chatting with us, and hundreds of like-minded bikers. See you at facebook.com/MotorCycleMonthly

★ MCM STAR LETTER OF THE MONTH ★ Am I the oldest new biker?

I passed my test for a 125cc bike in May 2013, then my big bike test in October 2013, just four months short of my 72nd birthday. I wonder if this is a possible record? I’ve had a Harley Custom 1200 since December 2012, but it had to sit in my garage until I passed my test!

Ken Evason

You’re right Brian! I hadn’t seen the other calibrated wrenches available from www.sealey.co.uk Whether you go for a top-of-therange model, or a cheaper (but still calibrated) piece of kit, they’re utterly indispensible.

How to make our roads safer

I now approach that certain age where my licence is renewable yearly. I started on two wheels and rode a motor scooter for many years until circumstances forced me to change to four wheels (I always said that the only reason I changed was that you could do things in the back of a car that were just not possible on the pillion of a two-wheeled vehicle).

During my time on bikes I ran a branch of the RAC/ACU motorcycle training scheme.

So, to wear or not to wear high visibility? Personally I feel that as many people as possible should wear lightcoloured clothing when out in dull conditions. We have a responsibility to make ourselves as visible to other road users as possible. I certainly carry a high visibility tabard in the car so that, were

I to need to get out of my vehicle at night I would be clearly visible. I often spot pedestrians crossing the road in badly lit or unlit sectors only at the last moment or when they’re wearing white trainers or similar.

On the wider topic I feel that part of the problem is that neither side really understands the other.

Although it was a long time ago, I still remember the sense of isolation I felt when I first sat in the four-wheeled box on wheels.

I can’t help but feel that the roads would be safer if no one was allowed to take a car driving test unless they had spent some time on two wheels, and motorcyclists should be required to show that they at least understand how to drive a car.

Bernard Ashfold

Top work Ken, but I’m afraid it’s not a record. We spoke to the Motorcycle Industry Association, who kindly dug out this info for us…

“Using data from the DVLA, which we obtained under a freedom of information request last year (correct up to July 2013), we found out that a 79year-old man in Exeter passed in 2000; a 77-year-old in Torquay passed in 2010; and a 76-yearold in Oxford passed in 2008.

“Ladies pass a little younger: 66-year-old from York passed in 2010; along with a 65-yearold from Worcester; and a 64-year-old from Glasgow passed in 2001.”

Good for you anyway Ken, and celebrate with a free subscription to one of our fantastic magazines! John

Each month, our star letter will receive a six month subscription to their choice of one of our fantastic motorcycle magazines!

Are you a maxi scooter rider?

I’ve been riding since the day I was 16, picking my first bike up at 8.30am, a 250cc BSA C10. I had so much trouble with it I leaned it against the dealer’s wall and walked away.

Some 27 bikes later and having just turned 75 years young I downsized my 650 GS twin and bought a 300cc Honda Forza scooter, nice to return to the easy going laid-back type of riding. The wife and I

have enjoyed many trips through France, Spain and Portugal but as she isn’t very far behind me age wise, has given up.

Getting to the point of this letter, since I believe that MCM may be the most widely read of all the motorcycle mags out there, I’d be interested to hear from any other retired maxi scooter riders who might appreciate the occasional rideout around the Lincolnshire area, or maybe to a

motorcycle show or exhibition somewhere.

I have ridden out with a couple of clubs in recent years but find their pace somewhat in excess of my slightly more leisurely style preferred.

I do now live fairly central to Lincolnshire so if any person or couple are interested, please contact me on 01526 833064, where we could discuss the possibilities.

Brian Phillips, Sleaford

WIN To be in with a chance of winning just answer this question

Question: Which famous racer rides on Dunlop tyres?

A. Paddy McGuinness B. John McGuinness C. Eugene McGuinness

COMPETITION 15

One of five pairs of Dunlop SportSmart2 tyres Dunlop’s latest generation hypersport tyre, the SportSmart2 delivers comfort, optimised wet and dry grip, durability and high speed potential.

The technology behind SportSmart 2 has been developed by Dunlop’s European R&D team, and is derived from products that have proved to be winners in racing, such as the D212 GP Pro. The tyre manufacturer’s race to road programme sees the technology and development behind Dunlop’s success in motorsport cascaded directly to its road going products, with recent examples being Jointless Tread and Mutli Tread Compound technology in the SportSmart 2.

Riders including John McGuinness push their Dunlop shod bikes to the limit in road racing. This confidence in the products is a real testament to the research and development that goes in to each and every Dunlop motorcycle tyre.

Worth

£250

MCM has teamed up with Dunlop to offer five lucky winners the chance to own a set of SportSmart 2 tyres.

Enter free online at:

www.motorcyclemonthly.co.uk

The winners will be drawn from the correct entries received by the closing date specified.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY. SEE THE WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS.

Closing date:

May 16, 2014

16 FIRST RIDE

Honda VFR800F £10,499 | 105bhp @ 10,250rpm 55lb-ft @ 8500rpm | liquid-cooled dohc 90° V4 Tested by: Bruce Wilson Deputy Editor of Motorcycle Sport and Leisure

IT’S estimated that more than 75,000 VFRs are actively ridden in Europe alone. Honda’s sixth generation of the popular sports-tourer is likely to see that figure rise again... for 2014, the VFR800’s been given a thorough working over, with a strong emphasis on improving the bike’s sporting credentials, while maintaining its commendable touring abilities.

The project took around two years to complete and it’s essential to point out that aside from the engine and frame, pretty much every other component on the bike is new. The styling is the biggest giveaway of advancement, sporting an edgier and, importantly, narrower profile. The designers wanted to enhance the bike’s aerodynamics and to do so they opted to reduce its width. The side mounted radiators of old have been lost in favour of two vertically stacked rads, just forward of the front cylinders. This has made a huge difference to the bike’s image, which is also bolstered by a new headlamp, multi-spoke ‘fine die-cast’ aluminium rims, and a much more aggressively styled Proarm swingarm.

But perhaps the biggest change to the aesthetics is the loss of the underseat exhaust system. The latest VFR opts for a simple side-mounted can, which has saved a total of 5kg. Similarly, a replacement aluminium subframe has relieved an additional 2kg from the rear of the bike, enhancing the weight distribution in the process. Other significant changes include a new dash, new forks, the addition of traction control and a height adjustable rider’s seat – 789 to 809mm.

Tell me about the engine...

The VFR’s motor is fundamentally unchanged. However, it’s been refined

for an increase in low-to-midrange performance, with a particular focus on reducing the V4’s VTEC snatchiness. The latter’s been improved via a combination of changes to the exhaust design and length, as well as through alterations to the fuel mapping and fuel volume.

The difference is staggering, and I can honestly say that the reduction in aggressive transition between the two-/four-valve performance is hugely notable. You can’t mistake the moment the addition of the hydraulic operated system kicks in, but more for audible reasons than physical disruption.

Below 7000rpm, the emitted engine noise is more whiney, with the air induction being more prominent than the exhaust note.

As you crest the magic threshold, VTEC becomes king, with an additional deep, mechanical noise joining the mix. It’s totally unmistakable to the ear, albeit you could be forgiven for not noticing it physically, because the process is now super smooth. Once in VTEC parameters, the bike’s acceleration remains linear, and hasty all the way up to the 12,500rpm limiter.

The models we tested were fitted with Honda’s optional quickshifter – a first for the company on a production bike – which allows you keep the throttle relentlessly pinned as you hook the next gear seamlessly. The system worked a treat, although I noted it to be a little sensitive to the touch, resulting twice in culls to the ignition without any physical gear change. But that’s more likely my fault for preloading the shifter. You’re on your own coming down the box, but the shifts remain smooth, at all times displayed on the dash’s gear indicator.

FIRST RIDE 17 Read more about the new VFR and its technology in Motorcycle Sport and Leisure’s June issue

of bike, and it’s totally unfazed by any corner at any pace. Throw it into one at speed and it will hold a consistent line, ready and able to change direction rapidly when requested.

Our test ride’s photo shoot took place on a tiringly twisty route near Benidorm: A lot of the corners tightened beyond the norm on exit, which proved no real challenge for the VFR, as it doubled back on itself to oblige an apex. Its agility was worthily noted and so too was its commendable level of feedback. This is one of those bikes that comes alive with an injection of rider input, yet still proves perfectly well mannered when the pace slows down in town.

Should I buy one?

Almost everything is new on the bike, which is a flagship machine for Honda.

As you’d expect, the hydraulic clutch also achieved top marks and the same can be said for the initial grunt of the motor. To gain more torque, the valve timing and duration has been worked on, and the end result is strong power from as low as 2000rpm. The bike can pull most gears from low down, but it really comes alive after 3000rpm. At slow speeds, the motor’s well behaved and easy to manage in a town environment.

If you are a little ham-fisted on the throttle, the switchable traction control keeps any slide in check. The system retards the ignition and reduces the fuel frequency until the bike’s settled again: It’s a nice, smooth set-up that never detracts from the ride.

What’s the chassis like?

The VFR’s main frame remains completely unchanged from the previous model. The reason being that Honda’s engineers failed to

improve on the design. However, they looked closely at components supporting it, and made a number of key changes. The new swingarm is one of the most significant: Despite maintaining the same dimensions as the old one, the design is totally new, and said to offer better torsional stiffness. This is a big aid in the handling department, making the ride sportier, with less flex from the rear.

The bike’s suspension has also been altered, with totally new forks up front, sporting a two-piece design to incorporate powerful radial brake calipers. The internal progressive spring rate has been altered at the bottom of its stroke to provide more support, while the shimming on both the front and rear units has been changed to offer greater damping affects.

All of these changes combine to deliver a truly remarkable riding experience. The VFR’s a do-it-all type

VFRs have always been popular motorcycles, going right back to the first batch that hit the streets in 1986.

They’re so versatile. They’re a unique breed of motorcycle, and the latest version continues that theme. If you’re the kind of rider who wants a machine that will commute, tour, scratch and deliver 50mpg, then this one’s for you. The crazy thing is that it will genuinely tackle most riding challenges commendably, while looking superb and sounding exceptional.

The additions of Traction Control and five-stage heated grips, as standard, will no doubt make this already fantastic package even more desirable, especially when you consider it’s priced at £10,499. You’re getting a lot of bike for your money.

But it’s not just about the quantity of tech you’re getting; it’s the way in which it’s delivered. The finish on the VFR is fantastic. It will put most bikes’ build quality to shame, because so much attention to detail has been paid to the way it looks. The new styling is

easy on the eye, but it’s when you get a bit closer that you realise the nice little touches which make this bike stand out. Take the VIN plate, for example.

It’s situated on the right side of the frame and it’s tacked on by two goldheaded pins. Continuing with that gold theme, the wheels are also treated to such a finish, along with the cylinders’ rocker covers, crankcases and the top yoke. It gives the bike a regal feel, regardless of whether you opt for the black, red or white colour options.

One of the nicest features has to be the dash: Smack in the middle is a large analogue rev-counter, shouldered by an abundance of info on multiple digital displays. Cleverly, the display’s backing is black, with the info in gold. This means that it’s constantly clear and easy to read, regardless of how strong the sun is. A small, yet significant feature which reflects how well considered this bike is.

What’s it like to ride…

The Honda delivers a premium riding experience, though that was always to be expected. This is a flagship model for the Japanese brand and that’s reflected in every turn of the wheel.

It’s hard to pick fault without getting too finicky, and pointing out small niggles such as the Traction Control button, which looks like a little bit of an afterthought.

Overall, it’s highly commendable, providing a great range of power throughout the revs, strong handling abilities worthy of track or town demands, and a fantastic image. The tech’s reasonable enough, although I did find myself lusting after cruise control on a particular motorway stretch. But you can’t have it all.

It’s a workhorse for every environment and it’s a fun and comfortable bike to ride. My 5ft 9in

frame slotted in nicely with the bike’s ergonomic package, which sports 13mm taller bars over the previous generation, along with an accommodatingly low seat and not too rearward faced pegs. The new bike has a fuel capacity of 21.5 litres, with a claimed range of more than 215 miles between fill-ups. Tucked in behind the bike’s generous fairing and screen, I’m sure that’s a distance that wouldn’t require too much aching to master.

Clocks are easy to read in any light.

Single-sided swingarm is a new design.

TECH SPEC Price: £10,499 Engine: Liquid-cooled dohc 90° V4 Power: 105bhp (78kW) @ 10,250rpm Torque: 55lb-ft (75Nm) @ 8500rpm Weight: 239kg Seat height: 789/809mm Tank size: 21.5 litres www.honda.co.uk/motorcycles

18 USED BIKE REVIEWS

Used test: Honda CB600F Hornet

“NICE BIKE MATE...”

2012 Kawasaki Z1000 SX

Used price: £5499 | 100bhp | 47lb-ft liquid-cooled inline-four Tested by: Bob Pickett THE Honda CB600F Hornet came into existence as a rival for Suzuki’s spectacularly successful Bandit and Yamaha’s original Fazer. The current model dates from 2007, when it had a total revamp. The model we tested is the final iteration – 2014 sees the Hornet replaced by the CBF650F.

Give me some spec…

The engine is donated from the CBR600RR; in its original state of tune it’s flexible (in sportbike terms), but has been detuned for a naked bike, and to provide additional torque (47lb-ft) lower down in the range – useful for a bike intended for more general use.

Holding this lump in place is an aluminium backbone chassis, sitting on top of admittedly basic suspension (preload only adjustment). Braking is supplied courtesy of 2x296mm front discs with twin piston caliper and 240mm rear disc. ABS is an optional extra. At 173kg dry weight it is no porker.

So, what’s it like to ride?

The riding position came as something of a surprise for a general-purpose midrange motorcycle. It’s quite sporty, with the pegs in more of a rear-set position. You find yourself wrapped around the tank; it’s

possible to move further back when pushing on, but when first planting yourself on the bike it slides you up against the tank.

The bars are narrow, helping with the wraparound riding position, which gave me a problem. I’m quite broad shouldered, so trying to tuck into the bars I found the side of my hands catching the edge of the grips, but it’s genuinely comfortable – I got off the bike at the end of the ride feeling fresh.

Pick up the pace and the engine really keeps on giving, driving hard from low down (once you’re in third and up: second is best for inner-town meandering, leaving the higher gears for cracking on above 40-50mph).

It’s quick to tip into the bends, but holds the line nicely: the budget suspension coped well with everything I threw at it (even the poorly surfaced inner-city commuter stuff and a single-lane back road I accidentally took myself down). Wind protection is minimal, but was comfortable up to motorway speeds.

If a novice rider were to look at this bike, I would recommend the ABS option. The stock brakes have little lever travel, so come on quite hard, but once you’re used to applying an even squeeze they pull up the Hornet nicely.

Name: Suneil Raval From: Hayling Island, Hampshire Occupation: Further education tutor Owned bike for: 18 months

What nick is it in?

As you would imagine from a bike with only 430 miles on the clock (post test-ride), it’s pristine.

Should I buy it?

The dealer wants £5499 for a late 2012/early 2013 (62 plate) bike with just 430 miles on the clock in mint condition. A search of other bikes in the local area of a similar age and mileage revealed a couple for sale within a tenner of this, so it looks about right.

Consider this: New, the bike

would have been £6455 – so it’s a £956 reduction on a bike not even fully run-in. If you need an allrounder that has more sporty aspirations, then this is worth looking at.

Meet the dealer With thanks to John’s of Romford for the loan of the bike: John’s of Romford www.johnsofromford.co.uk Tel: 01708 726048

Tell us about it: Previously I had a Yamaha Fazer S2 600, and did around 30,000 miles working towards my IAM Advanced riding test, and touring Europe. I had great fun but wanted a bit more grunt for less revs over long distances. I tried a few bikes out from my local dealers including an R1 and GSXR1000... then I tried my Z1000.After the third test ride, I took out my pillion, Lauren, and she loved it – the deal was done. I’ve added a tinted screen and some heated grips and I now run it on BT023s after talking to the Bridgestone rep at the Ron Haslam Race School. Over the next few years, I’m planning to explore and do more long range tours in the UK and Europe.

Power: 136.1bhp (101.5kW) @ 9600rpm Torque: 81.1lb-ft (110Nm) @ 7800rpm Engine: 1043cc four-stroke inline-four Wet weight: 231kg Seat height: 822mm Current value: Dealer £7200; Private £5800; Part-ex £5200

19

20 FIRST RIDE

Yamaha Super Tenere XT1200ZE £12,799 | 111bhp @ 7250rpm 86lb-ft @ 6000rpm | liquid-cooled parallel twin Tested by: Simon Hargreaves Photography: Alessio Barbanti and Marco Campelli

ADVENTURE sportbikes are currently the UK’s bestsellers, many coming fully equipped with semi-active suspension, sophisticated anti-lock brakes, traction control and advanced engine management. MCM finds out how Yamaha’s newly revised Super Ténéré fares against its flagship rivals at the launch in Italy…

Tell me about the engine The Super Ten’s 1199cc parallel twin makes a claimed 111bhp and 86lb-ft of torque. Internal changes for 2014 over the previous Super Ténéré include re-profiled pistons, skinnier piston rings, reshaped intake and exhaust port, and fuelling tweaks. These all contribute to reduced friction and add 2bhp to the peak power output, but it’s still a figure well below its rivals, such as the 125bhp BMW R1200GS, 142bhp KTM Adventure and 135bhp Triumph Explorer.

Big power might not seem relevant on adventure sportbikes, but it is if they’re bought to cover medium-long distances, in comfort, with an unstressed engine at motorway speeds and good luggage and passenger capacity. For these things you ideally want a big, powerful engine, and better still one that’s got a slow-revving, easygoing dose of charisma; hence flat twins, V-twins, a V4 or a triple.

The Super Ten’s parallel twin, with 270° staggered firing interval crank offering V-twin-style primary vibes, should fit the bill, but the motor is just a bit too pleasant to be truly inspirational. The high-pitched secondary vibes that pestered the old bike are eliminated by bushed topyoke risers, instead of cast handlebar mounts, and there’s nothing malign other than a tendency for the cooling fan to come on, noisily, in town at

Electrically adjustable suspension can be tweaked for different terrains. moderate ambient temperatures. But despite Yamaha removing the link pipe between headers to generate a lumpier torque curve, the engine isn’t quite as vibrant as some of the competition: there’s no lusty, thumping bottom end, no bulging midrange and no potent top end.

Instead it’s a moderate, inoffensive drive wherever you want it, with a wide range of flexibility in any gear as long as you keep the revs spinning.

Revised Tour and Sport engine modes reach the same peak power, but Tour has less aggressive throttle response. Both are a little snatchy, especially at miniscule throttle openings such as trundling about town or holding motorway cruising speed.

The XTZE also comes with a two-stage traction control if you’re feeling brave, but there’s little about the Super Ten’s power delivery to suggest you truly need to worry about it.

FIRST RIDE 21 What’s the chassis like?

In a class that features some of highest-tech chassis equipment manufacturers have yet thrown at a motorbike, the Super Ténéré might seem to be treading water. The GS gets semi-active suspension, the KTM Adventure gets cornering ABS, and the Super Ten gets electronic screwdrivers. Stepper motors on top of the 43mm KYB forks, and alongside the KYB rear shock respond to buttonpushes by the rider, selecting preload set-up at standstill, or damping settings on the move.

There are three main damping states – Soft, Standard or Hard – and each has six-step fine tuning. The best selection I found was to set Soft at -3, Standard as it comes, and Hard at +3, which gives you both extremes and a middle ground. Soft is good for comfort – very good, in fact – with excellent ride quality. It’s a bit too soggy for really spirited riding though, allowing for dramatic weight transfer, which can overload the 19in front tyre. The Hard damping setting firms

things up nicely for better handling and greater control, but at the expense of a harsher ride. Standard is where you end up for the rest of the time. Or, indeed, most of it. It’s a good system that both works and is more convenient than tools at the roadside.

And while the active suspension of the XTZE’s rivals is clearly the future, its merits aren’t yet great enough to make them a ‘must have’.

Controlling the Super Ten’s various engine and chassis settings, and navigating the dashboard menus to do it, is an easily remembered series of button pushes. Moving around these menus, which also give control of the heated grip settings and the usual trip functions, uses buttons on the left bar. The right bar has engine mode and cruise control settings, and a third set of buttons mounted on the clocks are for traction control.

The new bike also features a fourposition adjustable screen: A pair of thumbwheels on each side are easy enough to undo, but not while you’re moving, and actually wiggling the

screen to change its position is harder than it should be – you need both hands and more force than should be necessary.

Elsewhere the Super Ten is traditionally equipped with good ABS brakes, a low maintenance shaft drive (a plus over the KTM Adventure), and tidy 19in front and 17in rear wirespoked wheels

all, once up-spec’d to near the XTZ1200ZE’s level, more expensive than the Yamaha’s £12,799 price tag.

The Super Ten’s nearest rivals are Japanese; Honda’s Crosstourer with its amazing V4 engine that goes like the clappers, and Suzuki’s cheap and cheerful, well-equipped V-Strom. The Honda is substantially more expensive, the Suzuki three grand cheaper.

Should I buy one?

So what’s it like to ride?

If you’re a happy existing Super Ténéré owner, the new bike probably won’t make you trade up. The existing machine is arguably just as nice as the new one; on standard settings, its nonelectronic suspension is a good compromise… its engine feels harsher, but not necessarily in a bad way; and yes, there are move vibes, but it also feels more immediate and sensory.

The new bike is more refined, but has lost a hint of the character that I look for in a bike. Then there’s the awkward screen, finicky throttle, whining cooling fan and the gear indicator not showing gear position with the clutch in. They’re all niggles that, in isolation, are forgivable, but which could add up for some riders.

If you’re contemplating adventure sportbikes for the first time, there are plenty to choose from, and a bewildering multitude of accessories and spec levels. Most bikes are European flagships, built to showcase their manufacturers’ technical expertise.

The KTM Adventure, BMW R1200GS and Triumph Explorer are betterequipped than the Super Ténéré, and arguably more thrilling. Aprilia’s ignored super-techno CapoNord is bristling with ultra-high tech selflevelling suspension, and Ducati’s Multistrada is invincibly potent as a road bike. But here’s the rub: they’re

Really docile. Get on, and the XTZ is tall and meaty, but not unmanageable. The seat can be lowered as per other bikes in the class, and low speed balance is excellent.

Bopping around traffic is easy with generous steering lock, and the suspension and engine are both very smooth. Mid-speed A-road work is despatched with ease, and tyres, suspension and brakes are more than capable until you start pushing really hard.

Spirited riding starts to show up weight transfer issues, and the Super Ten can understeer when pushed hard. It’s at the edges of performance that other, better-equipped bikes start to show what better-equipped can mean: more reserves of handling.

On motorways the riding position is good but not quite perfect: the seat is rubbery and gets progressively harder as the miles roll by, so after a full day you’ll be ready for a comfy chair.

The XTZE is unlikely to break up marriages, cause offence or otherwise render its owner apoplectic with rage.

Like any bike, it’ll give you some memorable rides, and while it’s very hard to call a machine of this price ‘good value’, when compared with the competition it becomes a little more attractive. I like my bikes with a bit more ‘character’, but as an easy-going ride it’s certainly got a lot going for it.

Large display hosts engine and suspension settings.

Power sockets are vital on a bike like this for heated kit or accessories.

A shaft drive requires far less maintenance than a chain.

TECH SPEC Price: From £12,999 Engine: Liquid-cooled parallel twin Power: 111bhp (82.4kW) @ 7250rpm Torque: 86lb-ft (117Nm) @ 6000rpm Weight: 265kg Seat height: 845-870mm Tank size: 23 litres www.yamaha-motor.eu/uk

22 KNOW-HOW

Battery technology explained John Milbank takes a look at lithium iron batteries, and finds out how well they really work…

FOR racers, weight is critical. Every part of a motorcycle that can be made lighter will be machined, trimmed and shaved in order to eek out those critical fractions of a second.

Traditional lead acid batteries are very heavy, which is why many competitors are turning to lithium power sources.

What is lithium?

From phones to laptops, lithiumbased battery technology has been used for many years in consumer products. It gained momentum with the radio control market due to the fact that the cells can store a huge amount of energy in a very small space. That potential has also seen them become very popular in power tools, and now motorcycles.

Lithium is a lightweight, alkali metal. If you remember your chemistry classes, and the periodic

Foam is supplied with the battery, to fit in larger battery boxes.

table, you’ll know it’s the third element, after hydrogen and helium.

A majority of the world’s lithium is sourced from the brine found in salt lakes, and can be extracted through solar evaporation.

In 2009, worldwide usage of lithium was around 92,000 tons, with 25% being in batteries. Apparently Chile has the largest reserves of lithium, at 3,000,000 tons. Spent cells can be recycled, producing small quantities of lithium carbonate, as well as plastic, aluminium and copper.

Are all lithium batteries the same inside?

Lithium makes up just a small part of a battery, but there are a few different types: Lithium polymer batteries are used in model cars and planes, but require a bit of care in use. Look inside your phone and you’ll most likely find a lithium ion cell. Shorai Inc use LiFePo4 – lithium iron phosphate – in its LFX powersport range of batteries, which is a safer chemistry, with a longer life and a greater ability to dump large amounts of current in one go (ideal for power-hungry starter motors). A ‘prismatic’ cell shape allows the maximum cell size to be packed into Shorai batteries; some other packs use traditional round cells, which result in a lot of wasted space inside the battery.

A charger is available specifically for the lithium batteries.

Did you know… A ‘battery’ is a collection of ‘cells’. The 1.5v AA you have in your clock is a cell, but a 9v PP3 is a battery, as it’s actually six thin 1.5v cells inside a case. Lithium-based batteries tend to be a collection of 3.7-3.8v cells.

So do they work?

For my 2000 Honda CBR600FY, Shorai recommends either an LFX14A4-BS12, with a claimed CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) of 210, or the larger LFX18A1BS12 at 270. It’s this higher rated battery that I’ve installed in my bike, costing £170. It’s more expensive than a standard lead acid battery, but it should last longer, and be a lot more reliable on a bike that I don’t get to ride very much. Expect updates on the performance of the battery over the coming months, both in the paper, and on the blog at www.morebikes.co.uk The Shorai is physically smaller than the OE battery, but comes with plenty of self-adhesive high-density packing foam, so fitting is simple. Incredibly though, it weighs just 1060g, compared with the OE which is a hefty

The Shorai is significantly smaller and lighter than a standard lead acid battery.

3140g. Of course, I need to lose more weight than that from my belly before this makes much of a difference…

To see how much power the Shorai can offer, I wanted to run an early initial test, but the battery in my CBR was fairly old. Fortunately, the Kawasaki Z1000SX I have on longterm test came with a factory-fresh YT12A-BS. With a CCA of 175, this 10.5Ah battery is more powerful than the YTX9-BS that the CBR carries, but it’s the same physical size, and the Shorai LFX18 is still the recommended replacement.

I removed all the fuel from the CBR, and disconnected the ignition coils, then simply connected a battery, and ran the starter motor for 10 seconds, with a rest of 10 seconds between each burst. The hefty YT12 managed 24 10 second cranks of the motor before it was flat, which was matched by the Shorai. Considering the smaller form, and almost a third of the weight, this was amazing.

A lithium battery tends to hold a fairly steady voltage, then suddenly discharges, whereas lead acid drops a bit more linearly. This means that a lithium pack should have more grunt when it’s nearly discharged than a lead acid, giving a healthy bike a better chance of starting if power is low. This seemed proven during the test, as at around 19-20 cranks, both batteries were showing signs of tiring, but the Shorai would start the first few seconds faster than the lead acid.

Along with the updates, I’ll also be testing the Shorai after it’s been chilled in the fridge and freezer, so keep watching for more…

To see how both batteries performed, watch the video at www.morebikes.co.uk/shoraitest For more info on Shorai batteries, go to www.shoraipower.com or contact the UK importer, MAG Europe at 0161 337 4390 or sales@mageurope.eu

23

24 KNOW-HOW

How to buy a bike

John Milbank talks to four experts to find out how to get the best deal on your next machine.

The private buyer EX-RACER Mark Hardy just loves bikes. Rather than buy one and stick with it, he looks for a machine to suit his next trip. Having bought dozens of motorcycles, and viewed hundreds, he’s got some great advice for getting the best deal...

“I spend hours trawling eBay, and set up ‘saved searches’ within a 50 mile radius to alert me when a new one comes up. If I see something I’m interested in, I put a low bid on straight away, and wait to see if anybody else shows any interest.

“I’ll only place bids on bikes with a service history, and if there’s not enough info on the advert, I’ll drop the seller a message, or phone them.

For instance, if the listing doesn’t mention that the V5’s present, I won’t assume: I’ll always ask!

“I also run an HPI check on everything to avoid unpaid finance, stolen, or written-off bikes.

Occasionally a seller won’t know about an issue – I actually got a bike for half price once through this bartering tool! The key thing is to know what you’re buying, and what you’re capable of repairing.

“I’ve bought bikes without viewing them, but I’m not afraid to refuse to

pay for something if it’s not as described. Keeping my buying within a 50 mile radius saves some fuel cost if a seller has wasted my time.

“I’ll always look for things that have been missed off the listing, as they’re a perfect way to haggle, and I quote the repair at full dealer prices. Having a trailer helps – I always go to view a bike with all the cash in my hand, ready to do a fast deal. It’s also worth keeping an eye out for bikes that don’t sell – making contact afterwards can be a great way to save some cash on the asking price.

“I’m attracted by plenty of facts in an ad’s description, and as many decent pictures as possible. If someone’s taken the time and care to shoot a lot of good images, the chances are they’re not hiding anything.

What do you check when you see a bike?

“Generally, you can tell if a bike’s honest the moment you see it – if the owner’s taken the time to polish it and the brake fluid, coolant and oil are nice and clear, it’s more than likely a good one. I like a bike with an inch of unworn tyre at the edges – it’s a good sign it hasn’t been ridden hard, as are undamaged hero-blobs (the pegs sticking out of the bottom of the footpegs).

“Look at the bottom of the fork stanchions, below the axle. People have been known to rub down and repaint them after a scrape, to hide the damage. Do they match either side? Does the shape of the casting look correct? The compression adjuster – if it’s on the bottom of the fork – also gets damaged easily, so is worth checking.

“Look through the fairing panels at the radiator to see if it’s straight.

Try to peek everywhere you can behind the fairings for scrapes on the engine casings and frame. Another telltale sign of damage is new coolant pipes, or damaged jubilee clips holding them on.

“On the swingarm, look for damage to the rear corners, or behind the exhaust, if it’s a low-hanging one. The clocks should be straight and secure – the mounting brackets are easily damaged. Is the ignition barrel intact, or does it look like some scally has forced a screwdriver into it?

“Besides looking for evidence of lock-wiring (holes in bolts), other possible tells of a race or track bike are well-used suspension adjusters and damage to the rims caused by excessive tyre changes.

“Run your hand over the brake discs: racers use hard pads, which put grooves in the discs, and a lip on the

Check the bottoms of the forks for hidden crash damage.

Look under the filler cap for any signs of paint overspray.

edge. If the clocks say 3000 miles, but the discs have that kind of wear, the bike’s spent a lot of time on the track.

“Some things are so obvious, you can overlook them – do the fairing panels fit correctly; is the chain well maintained; are there any stickers in strange places; any overspray under the seat or inside the filler cap; any scrapes on the exhaust, indicators or

mirrors; are the bar-ends and levers original? Check the tyres – not just for wear, but are they on the right way round? You’d be surprised, but it’s a great bartering point...”

Are you insured when you test ride a motorcycle? Check out www.morebikes.co.uk/test-ride for the facts from Principal Insurance

KNOW-HOW 25 The dealer With 17 years’ experience selling BMWs, T J Skrobot – sales manager at Balderston Peterborough – knows how to buy, and sell, a decent bike...

“I have to make sure I’m going to make a profit. When buying, I’ll check a bike’s general condition, then pass it to the workshop, where they go over everything and road test it – I don’t want any nasty surprises. Often, simple ‘tells’ like dirty brake fluid are a good guide to how well maintained a bike is.

“Some people think ‘You paid £5000 for that, and you’re asking £6000’.

What needs to be kept in mind is that the workshop check and an annual service costs me £150, and an Approved Used warranty costs me £210 plus VAT. If I sell it for £6000 I have to pay the VAT on the £1000, so that’s a total of £560 gone before salaries and rent. The profits often aren’t as big as people think.

“I wouldn’t take an insurance writeoff – there are plenty of other bikes out there, and I don’t want to be explaining it to someone when I’m making a sale. I’ll always look for a full dealer service history when I’m buying too: The biggest service on a BMW is at 18,000 miles (£400-£450), so if your bike has a bid value of £8000, I haven’t got dozens of them, and it doesn’t have that service, I’m going to bid you £7500. If I’ve got six of the same model, I’ll probably go in at £7000 or even lower.

“At the end of the day, I’m generally buying BMWs, and having been here for 17 years, I know what one should look like. There are certain potential problems I know of too, like the blackpainted front panel of a boxer engine that can get chipped and corrode quite badly (£350 to repair).

Buying kit at the same time can save money.

Be realistic about prices when buying new.

“Some old BMWs with servoassisted ABS had to have their brake fluid changed every two years with an electric pump, which meant it couldn’t be done at home. If it was neglected, and moisture got into the fluid, the servo could fail and cost £1400 to repair. BMW discontinued that system a while back, and most people simply bypass the ABS with a new set of braided lines.

“If I get something in I don’t know enough about, I phone someone who does. Knowing as much as possible about the bike you’re buying is vital.

So how can we get the best deal from a dealer?

“I honestly think the days of shops looking to fleece you have mostly gone. I remember firms in the past

paying their staff purely on commission. That’s simply not right.

When you work like that, people will do anything to sell a bike.

“We don’t make money from selling finance, but we do save it: If we have 20 new BMWs at the depot, we, as the dealership, have about 10% of their value invested in them, and BMW covers the remaining 90%. The charges we pay for this are dependent on how many bikes we sell with BMW finance, not how much profit is made on it. The higher our finance penetration, the lower our interest rate is. However, buyers aren’t daft, and know what rates they could pay on a bank loan, so we make sure we’re competitive.”

So is cash king? “No. The bank charges us 1% for counting it and putting it in our account. If you pay by

credit card, I’ll have to pass on the 2% charge. If you want to put a £5000 cash deposit on a bike, I’m okay with that, as I can keep it in the safe, ready to buy something. Bank transfer or a debit card is the best bet, and online banking makes it even easier and more secure.

“Like many franchises, we have quarterly targets. If you came to me on the right date, and I was one short, you’re possibly going to get a better deal than if you came a week later. If a dealer is well under or over a target, it won’t make a difference to getting their bonus”. Of course, a dealer won’t tell you where they’re sitting with those targets.

At the end of the day, dealers aren’t a charity, and have to cover the costs of their premises, and their wages.

What you pay for is the support, service and warranty that you don’t find privately. You’ll most likely make some savings if you buy any clothing or accessories at the same time, but remember that dealers have to make a living, the same as all of us.

T J has the last word: “If I have a bike up for sale, and I’ve got no profit left in it, or it’s a very popular machine, then the price on the ticket is the price you’re going to pay.” So don’t expect any discounted R nineTs for a long time...

See new and Used Approved bikes at www.balderston.net Check out some great advice from our reader panel at www.morebikes.co.uk/howtobuy

26 KNOW-HOW The auction buyer James Robinson is editor of The Classic MotorCycle, and a regular at Bonhams auction house (specialist in classic vehicles). His biggest purchase was an ex-Grand Prix 250 Benelli that he purchased for a UK enthusiast at £80,000. Here’s his auction advice: “Don’t forget the commission. You’ll have a percentage of the hammer price to pay (typically 10-15%), then VAT on that commission. If you pay £5000, you’ll likely be looking at £750 commission, then £150 VAT. So, a bike you bought for five grand will actually cost you £5900.

“Speak to the auctioneers first, to look at any paperwork they might have. It also gives you a chance to get to know them, and make them aware you’re interested in the bike.

“A seller can legally bid on their own bike, up to the reserve price, to get the bidding moving. Bonhams have a catalogue for each auction, and if the estimate price is £4000-£5000, the bidding will often start around £2000, but it’s a fair bet that the lower estimate is the reserve price.

“I’m always half looking for a bargain, and set a price that I won’t go over. Having said that, if I’ve absolutely set my heart on something (or

someone else has asked me to bid for something they desperately want), then I’m going with the mindset of ‘I’m having that bike’, but that’s unusual in my case – normally I have a strict limit, then walk away. Prices can get out of control, especially when classic bikes are auctioned alongside classic cars – a car enthusiast might have decided they’d pay one and a half million for something, so when they see a bike for twenty-five grand, it’s a bargain to them! I wasn’t looking for this Ducati, but picked it up at a good price of £1800. I don’t want to think about what I’ve spent on it since though...

“When I’m checking a bike over, I look for things that don’t look right: Do the control cables run correctly?

Does the inside of the tank look clean and rust-free? I always get down low behind the bike, to see if it’s wonky.

It’s the obvious, badly bodged things I’m checking. If it doesn’t seem right, I’ll walk away.”

A beginner’s guide to auctions We spoke to British Car Auctions (www.british-car-auctions.co.uk) for the lowdown...

Do I need to register? No – for most BCA auctions you can just turn up.

How do I see the paperwork? Ask the rostrum clerk. BCA also publishes full online catalogue listings in advance.

What does a warranted mileage mean? The seller has warranted the mileage, usually with a service history and/or MoT certificates.

Is there any warranty? Sold as seen means the vehicle is for sale as it is, with no warranties. The auctioneer will read out particular defects if notified by the seller. On a BCA Assured report, a 30 point mechanical check is carried out by the AA and can be seen at the auction, or by visiting the BCA website.

What does ‘VAT margin’ mean?

Vehicles that are not eligible for recovery of VAT even if purchased by a VAT registered person and bought on a tax invoice are called Margin Vehicles.

What does ‘VAT commercial’ mean?

All light and heavy commercial vehicles, plant and equipment are subject to VAT on top of the auction selling price.

How do I place a bid? Simply raise your hand clearly. The auctioneer will take your bid at the current increment is (typically £100 or £50) and – if there are subsequent bids – will return to see if you wish to bid higher.

What fees can I expect? Buyers who purchase a Police Authority bike will pay an additional 5% (+ VAT) on top of their winning bid, as a buyer’s fee. On all other bikes, the standard non-

You’ll find a huge variety of bikes at an auction, but knowing what fess you couyld be faced with is vital.

refundable BCA Buyer’s fee (+VAT) applies. This is calculated on a sliding scale (stated in our Terms & Conditions of Sale, which are prominently displayed at all BCA centres) depending on the value of the ‘bike purchased and ensures there’s no outstanding hire purchase or credit on the vehicle, and that it’s not stolen or an insurance write-off.

The premium fully underwrites the vehicle if these issues subsequently come to light.

There is also a £26 V5C New Keeper Transfer Fee as BCA is legally obliged to inform the DVLA of a change of ownership. Cash incurs a 1.25% + VAT fee, credit card 2.5% + VAT. Due to EU guidelines, BCA will not accept more than £9000 in cash.

What happens if I win? Typically the winning bidder makes a deposit of 10% or £1000 (whichever is the largest) at the rostrum. A receipt is

Research before an auction is essential. issued, to be taken to the cashier’s window where full payment is made and any paperwork collected.

The buyer is issued with a pass-out slip, can collect the key, and take the vehicle.

Check out our video of a bike going under the hammer at www.morebikes.co.uk/auction

KNOW-HOW 27 The restorer Ian Bates owns Resurrection Motorcycles in Market Deeping.

Building bikes since the age of 10, and an engineer by trade, he now specialises in damaged repairables, and knows how to see the potential in another man’s write-off...

“It’s a crying shame that we live in such a throwaway society, but it can mean some great bargains. I regularly buy Category C and D insurance write-off bikes – I’ll look past fairing damage, but anything structural and I’ll walk away. You can see from the damage how a bike has been crashed, and work out what could have happened. A slide down the road is quite different to impact damage, for instance if the bike slid into a kerb. If the geometry of a bike is wrong, I don’t want to take it.

“By buying a bike that’s come direct from an insurance company, there’s a lot less chance that anybody has tried to hide any damage. It’s the risk when buying any crashed bike that’s been repaired – are more serious issues being hidden? My advice would be to ask for photos of the restoration, as well as seeing the parts that have been replaced. That’s why I document all my work, from the first time I see the bike to the last bolt replaced, and keep all the broken parts, to give a customer the confidence to know what they’re buying.

“Despite a bike I purchase being a Cat C or Cat D write-off, I’ll still be looking for a full service history, as well as the usual MoTs and mileage checks. It all helps me to build a picture of the machine’s previous life, and how it was cared for before it was crashed. It might have mud stuck in the frame, and pieces missing, but you can still very

easily get an idea of how well loved it was. I’m looking for originality – the less modifications a bike’s had; the less it’s been messed around with, then the more likely I am to buy it. You can tell from the finish if something’s ‘factory’.

Stickers might be covering damage, new levers can be a sign of a drop.

How badly damaged is a Cat C or Cat D?

“Write-off categories are purely down to economics. Don’t believe anyone who tries to tell you that it’s just about cosmetic damage. Of course, two different insurance assessors can class a bike differently – some might say that some stone chips to a fork leg are wear and tear, whereas others might insist that the entire assembly is replaced.

“When you’re repairing a bike, you must know what you’re doing, so a good level of mechanical knowledge and experience is vital. You can’t do work like this in the kitchen, and at the end of the day, the bike’s going to have to pass an MoT, and you, or your buyer, are going to trust it with their life. I don’t take things like that lightly.

If you haven’t got the right knowledge, the right tools, and plenty of common sense, then repairing a crashed bike isn’t for you. A can-do attitude is important, but so is knowing your limitations. If in doubt, talk to a professional.

“Understanding what can be repaired is vital – a KTM I worked on recently had a punctured fuel tank and a scraped panel. It was written off because the plastic tank costs £2000.

Insurance companies will only replace, not repair items, but I had the tank professionally welded for £50, and bought a new panel for £100. The frame, wheels... everything else was perfect. I was even able to get the full service history from KTM.

Be sure you have the skills to repair a bike safely.

Sometimes minor damage can write a bike off.

“I know I won’t be able to sell a restored bike for the asking price of a typical machine that hasn’t been written off, but it does mean that a buyer can get a great value motorcycle, and by doing the work myself, or knowing the right professionals, I’ve still made a profit.

“It’s a crying shame that some people would want to buy the MV I have on my bench at the moment to break up for spares. It’s a beautiful piece of engineering, and to write it off, then pull it apart to flog for bits upsets me a lot. Bringing something like this home, and knowing it will run again, looking like it did when it came out of the showroom is what drives me.

It’s a passion.”

Does a Cat C or D bike affect your insurance?

We spoke to Dave Bowcock, MD of Principal Insurance to find out if buying a damaged-repairable bike could affect your policy premiums…

“Usually if a bike has been written off and given a category of C or D, it’s because it is deemed uneconomical to repair. Depending on the damage, most insurers don’t have a problem with covering these machines if you want to put them back on the road, as long as they have a valid MoT (if applicable), or an engineer’s report. It’s always best to check with your broker first before buying or insuring the bike.”

For a fresh approach to bike insurance, call 0808 178 7922 or visit www.principalinsurance.co.uk To talk to Ian about servicing and repairing anything from the smallest field bike, to a full rebuild of an MV Agusta, call 01778 380940

Get even more at our website. Go to www.morebikes.co.uk/writeoff for more information on buying a Cat C or Cat D bike.

28 KNOW-HOW Sponsored by

Back to

basics:

Air filter & plugs

Looking after your bike is easy! John Milbank shows you how with his 2000 Honda CBR600FY. MY CBR’s air filter should be changed every 12,000 miles.

With just over that on the clock, I expected to find the original still in place. What I found though just proves it needs changing earlier.

A clean filter lets the engine breathe properly. If it’s clogged, the bike could run ‘rich’ (too much fuel in the mixture that’s squirted into the cylinders), making for poor running and inefficiency.

To get to the filter, the tank has to come off, and as the more expensive spark plugs should be replaced every 8000 miles, I figure both jobs might as well be done together. This article will run through the work I did, but I strongly recommend you treat yourself to a Clymer or (and!)

Haynes workshop manual, even if you’re working on the same bike as me. They’re invaluable, and a geeky pleasure to read too…

3

6 I’ve stripped out some of the emission-control pipes, to make access to the plugs easier. I don’t have an air line, so I bought a can of airbrush propellant from Halfords, and attached a Kenro Air Duster Valve (£8.99 from eBay) to blow any grit and dust away that could fall into the cylinder when the plugs come out.

7 3 This is nasty. The filter’s only just past its scheduled service, but it’s packed with dead flies and road muck. Chuck it away, and carefully clean any rubbish out of the bottom of the airbox.

10

4

7 Pull the coils out of the cylinder head. The cables are only just the right length to go back in, so you shouldn’t be able to muddle them up.

Then use a ratchet with a spark plug socket (it’s got a rubber grommet inside to hold on to the plug once it’s free) to remove the plug.

1

1 The CBR’s tank is removed with two screws at the headstock, and two beneath the seat. There’s not much slack underneath, so it needs carefully lifting to expose the pipes and wires. You can mark these with a bit of tape, so you know where they go, but don’t forget to turn the fuel tap off first. It’ll be different on other bikes, especially fuelinjected, but grab yourself a workshop manual and it’s easy.

Pop the tank safely out of the way on a bench.

2

4 Theoretically, the plugs can be changed from behind the radiator, but I find it a lot easier to go in from the top. The four clamps that attach the airbox lower to the carbs need loosening, and the vacuum pipes have to come off their blank plugs.

8

5

12

10 With an extension on the socket, but NO ratchet, gently lower the plug into the engine, making sure you don’t catch the electrode. Once it’s sitting on the threads, I turn it slowly backwards – as if I’m undoing it – until I feel the plug’s threads drop into the start of the engine’s threads. Then do it up by hand until it gets to the bottom. This is the best way to make sure you don’t cross-thread the plugs, which is a very costly mistake.

11

8 Double-check that you’ve bought the right plugs by holding the old and new ones next to each other and checking they’re the same length.

I also check the plug’s gap too (see panel).

5 With the airbox removed, gently plug the carb inlets with clean rags.

Also take some time to study the layout of the pipework, and take a photo with your phone too.

2 Unscrew the top of the airbox, and you’ll find the filter. Lay a clean piece of rag over the carb inlets to stop anything dropping down there.

Gapping your plugs

9 Pop the new plug into the socket, being careful not to press on the electrode, then give the threads a light wipe of copper grease, to stop them seizing.

The spark plug’s gap is vital to burning the fuel mixture efficiently.

When you buy plugs for your bike, they usually come with the correct gap between the electrodes – I haven’t seen one wrong for about 15 years. Iridium plugs have a very fine, and easily damaged centre electrode, so long-gone are the days of levering the gap open with a feeler gauge.

Manufacturers recommend the use of a wire plug-gap tool, which prevents damage. However, to confirm that the gaps are correct, I still use my old feeler gauge, being careful not to put any pressure on the delicate centre electrode.

50 piece Metric Tool Kit ! 15pc Socket Set ! 10pc Allen Key Set ! Adjustable Spanner ! 10mm Combination Spanner ! 7pc Torx Set + much more

WAS £29.99

12 With the new plugs in, and the coils firmly seated on the plugs, refit all the pipework, screw the airbox back on then drop in your new air filter. With the airbox reassembled and the tank back on, you’re all finished. Job done!

For a great range of parts and spares, check out www.wemoto.com or call 01273 597072

9

6

0800 5999 159 info@roadside-toolkits.co.uk www.roadside-toolkits.co.uk

11 Plugs can be fitted by tightening half a turn with a standard ratchet once the plug’s gasket meets the cylinder head. I far prefer the accuracy, reliability and safety of using a torque wrench.

NOW £24.99

50 piece Imperial Tool Kit

SAVE £5

+ free WD-40 & Threadlocker

Suited for Harley Davidson

! Open end Wrench Set ! Heavy Duty 7” Vice Grips ! Spark Plug Gap Tool ! Mechanics Wire ! 2pc Plug Socket Set + much more

WAS £29.99

NOW £24.99

29

in association with READER ADVENTURE 31

Three bikes. 40 countries.

How an MCM reader’s trip to the local bike meet turned into an epic biking tour.

On the southern tip of Spain with Morocco in the background. From left to right, Gareth, Adam and James.

I LIVE just five minutes from the Ace Cafe London, but it took 16,000 miles to get there in the summer of 2013.

I’m James Matthews, a mechanical engineer from New Zealand. I moved to the UK on a two-year working visa, with the plan of working in London, while seeing as much of Europe as I could.

One alcohol-fuelled night I grabbed a marker pen and drew a line on my map from London to Dover, over to Calais, and onward through every country in mainland Europe. What better way to see it all than riding through on my Yamaha XVS650

Dragster? I sent an email to a few mates with a picture of the map I had just made, another picture of Wyatt and Billy from Easy Rider on their bikes, and a photo of a pitched tent, under the subject line “Who’s keen?”.

Two of them (Adam with a Honda Shadow 750 and Gareth with a Honda VFR800) said yes.

The journey begins On July 1, the three of us met at Dover, with only a rough line on a map to guide us, but ready for our adventureof-a-lifetime. After three days of riding through torrential rain down the west

coast of France, we arrived to Spain), we got a bit lost riding sunshine at our first significant stop – through the woods, looking for a spot the San Fermín (Running of the Bulls) to camp, and came across two festival in Pamplona, policemen who, for Spain. some reason, had After a few days been hiding in the recovering from the bushes. Nerves were festivities, we on edge when they headed over to San emerged from the You don’t need an expensive Sebastian to relax on trees and modified adventure motorcycle the beach and try approached us, but to go touring. Each of our bikes some pintxos they were just cost less than £2000. (tapas). From here interested in the we set course for bikes and wanted to Porto, Portugal… help, giving us a police escort to a Somewhere on the way (still in nearby campsite.

JAMES’ TOURING TIP

The next day, greeted by a wall of heat, we were in Portugal, where the temperature meant riding in leathers was unbearable (the locals simply don’t wear any safety gear at all). We pushed on, dark leather jackets and all, down the coast to Lagos in southern Portugal where, at dinner, the bar staff forced (with little resistance) shots of whisky, gin, and absinthe down our throats. An unscheduled extra night’s stay was required before our blood/alcohol dropped to legal levels.

From Lagos, we re-entered Spain and aimed for Gibraltar, stopping at the southernmost point of mainland Europe (Tarifa) on the way. From this point, you can look out over the Strait of Gibraltar at Morocco on the African continent.

In Gibraltar, we met two local girls who bravely invited we three dirty, smelly, unshaven, biker guys to stay on their couches while we were there.

They turned out to be excellent hosts, showing us the sights of Gibraltar, the wild apes on The Rock, and taking us to a festival in Spain. ➧

32 READER ADVENTURE in association with

Avoiding the bears while camping in Romania.

Adam looking out over the Transfagarasen. Much more fun than Stelvio Pass.

Gareth and James in front of Buzludzha, the strange abandoned soviet UFO building on a mountaintop in Bulgaria.

The bikes weren’t always ideal for some of the ‘roads’ the lads encountered.

Leaving Gibraltar, we followed the pulled over at a lone coffee shop in the coast up through Valencia and mountains to warm up. I know I Barcelona to stay with some friends at hadn’t left my lights on, but somehow, the beach in Blanes, then over to by the time we’d finished our coffees, Andorra for a nice break from the my Yamaha’s battery was completely heat, riding around on some of the flat. It seemed an eternity as I tried to fantastic mountain roads in the wave cars over for a jump-start, no one Pyrenees. wanting to stop in the freezing rain.

The heat came back with a Once the weather cleared, we made vengeance in France, and stuck with a quick stop in Lichtenstein, then us for a lap of the F1 circuit in Monaco, made our way up to the Black Forest and on to Italy where we saw all the in Germany. This was a great historical sights in Florence, Pisa, and experience, not least because of the Rome. Mount Vesuvius provided the residents: we were pitching our tents setting for a night camping in a horror- in among the trees one night when a movie-like semi-demolished building local came across us and invited us that was infested with scorpions and back to his house. When we arrived, covered in graffiti depicting zombies he and his family had a barbecue set and other ominous images. up and beers waiting for us!

A visit to Pompeii was next, followed by a ride along the Amalfi coast. There Heading north are some great views here, but the We stopped off to see a friend in the narrow roads were so clogged with Mosel wine growing region, rode tourist buses and other traffic that you through Luxembourg, and ended up could hardly describe the experience at the Belgian F1 track (Spaas enjoyable.

Francorchamps) where someone had Awful roads were commonplace in left a gate to the circuit open. We Italy: poor surface quality; traffic jams ‘ummed and ahhed’ for about half an on all the non-toll routes and lunatic hour, trying to decide whether or not drivers pulling off crazy manoeuvres we should go for a quick spin around everywhere else. This even continued the circuit, but came to our senses once we reached the after seeing the much-hyped Stelvio police nearby.

Pass. We agreed that, Instead, we spotted while it was a great a pre-erected tent in experience to ride a field next to the up the picturesque track, so parked our Allow for contingency in your hairpin-heaven on bikes inside and set plans. We frequently came the Italian side, the up our beds for across unexpected delays that cost us a day or two. less-famous roads the night. on the Swiss side The long road were far more entertaining. Until the north continued up to Amsterdam, rain came: the first we’d encountered then back into Germany to see a in more than a month. friend in Hannover; up to Riding through pouring rain over Copenhagen in Denmark; along the snow-capped mountains was a bit of a west coast of Sweden and all the way shock to the system after the 45° heat up to Oslo in Norway. we’d just come from in Venice, so we From there we rode east to

JAMES’ TOURING TIP

Stockholm, where I got a puncture.

Luckily I managed to get to a mechanic who sorted me out.

Interestingly, he was also selling Ghost Rider merchandise (the biker made famous by videos on YouTube doing wheelies and evading police on public roads at speeds in excess of 200mph), and just happened to have several of the Ghost Rider vehicles in his garage, including a 500bhp (so we were told) turbo Hayabusa. I’m still not sure what part (if any) he had to play in the Ghost Rider films…

Ferries would be our next mode of transport: first we sailed to Finland, and then down into Estonia where we got back on the bikes to head south through eastern Europe. The locals all told us that we had to be careful camping in the forests as the bears can be dangerous. While we heard a few strange noises in the nights, we were quite disappointed that we never actually spotted any.

Many people across eastern Europe seemed surprised that we’d turned up in the area at all, but they always came across as helpful and friendly. One night in Slovakia the locals were so keen to look after us that they were physically fighting over who was going to buy us drinks next.

Hungary came after Slovakia, where it was time for my next mechanical issue: one of my exhaust pipes parted ways with the engine, making quite a racket in the process. Fortunately, a local biker was passing, and took me to the nearest garage. The mechanic fixed the problem and topped up my fluids there and then. He refused any payment saying that it was a “souvenir from Hungary”. He even gave me a bottle of his home-brewed Pálinka (read: rocket fuel). Just another example of the generosity we experienced throughout the trip.

in association with READER ADVENTURE 33 Leaving the union

out, the border guards weren’t the Crossing into Romania was the first slightest bit corrupt… Back to time we’d been asked to show any Romania we went. documentation. This turned out to be We were staying at a hostel in Brasov more of an issue than we had expected. in Romania when a member of the Adam had left his Shadow’s ownership Night Wolves spotted our bikes and papers back in London, and the border decided to come inside and meet us guards weren’t (they’re the Russian going to let him in biker club that without them. They Vladimir Putin once told us to try our went to hang out luck at the border with instead of crossing 30 minutes meeting the former Research your insurance policy down the road. This Ukranian leader). before you leave. ‘Europe’ yielded exactly the We got chatting, policies don’t cover all same results, with and after a while countries in Europe! the guards telling us mentioned that to try yet another Adam wouldn’t be crossing. Our third attempt appeared to able to get into Bulgaria. Our new be unfolding identically when, after 10 friend told us to call him the next minutes of waiting, the guards came morning: “I’ll get some boys together back with our passports stamped and to ride down to the border. When we told us to enjoy Romania. Success! talk to the guards you will enter A few days later we tried to get into Bulgaria with no problems.”

Moldova. We knew that we were Unfortunately, we didn’t manage to supposed to have pre-arranged visas, get hold of him the following day, but we’d also heard that we should be which meant Adam decided to call it able to bribe our way in. As it turned quits and head for home.

JAMES’ TOURING TIP

The last leg Now well into September, and after sleeping on top of a mountain next to a deserted, disintegrating Soviet building that resembled a crashlanded UFO, Gareth and I entered Turkey, making our way to Istanbul.

The Turkish, hands down, won the award for the scariest drivers we encountered, including a local biker who offered to escort us to find our route. We’d missed our exit on a busy motorway, so our guide then took us the wrong way down said motorway to get back to our exit.

One way to get the adrenaline pumping!

Back to the relative safety of Greece and things were looking up again.

Barring the long waits at borders to obtain insurance, we made it in fairly quick succession through Albania, Macedonia, Serbia, Kosovo, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Croatia. My favourite part about Croatia was exploring the Željava underground airbase: a huge secret base that was

destroyed during the breakup of Yugoslavia, and is still surrounded by unexploded landmines. As long as you stay on the concrete to avoid getting blown up, the unused runways provide a nice opportunity to stretch the legs on your bike.

Riding through Slovenia and Austria brought us to country number 40 on the trip – the Czech Republic – unfortunately also the point where we had to turn around and head back towards London. Still, we’d timed it so that we could get to Munich in time for the last week of Oktoberfest, so all was not lost. Recovery complete, it was finally time to get back to London, taking the indirect route through the Alps.

On October 24, 2013, and after riding 16,000 miles through 40 countries, we arrived at the Ace Cafe London – just two miles from my flat that I’d set out from three and a half months earlier.

The mountains in Montenegro make for great roads.

The threat of ice on the Grossglockner High Alpine Pass in Austria was a worry.

Win Metzeler tyres

Metzeler’s Roadtec Z8 Interact tyres offer precise and effortless handling, for a long and safe ride. The Tourance Next is a hightech adventure-bike focused tyre that dares you to challenge any weather on any road, while the Karoo 3 is a knobbly dual-purpose adventure tyre suited to off-road and long distances on Tarmac. MCM readers who get their story published in the paper can choose a pair from these three great sets.

Do you want to tell our readers about an incredible bike journey? A well-written story (around 1400 words) with some great photos could land you some fantastic Metzeler rubber. If you want to be in with the chance of winning, email your words and photos to editorial@motorcyclemonthly.co.uk with My Adventure as the subject.

Gareth making use of one of the Željava airbase runways.

For more info on Metzeler’s award-winning range, go to www.metzeler.co.uk

34 KNOW-HOW

Formula 1

tech for your bike John Milbank reveals the incredible ceramic coating that should be standard on every bike’s exhaust…

STAINLESS steel is too expensive for many bikes’ original exhaust systems, and as a result, they can rot out, leaving you with an expensive bill if you want to stick with OE parts.

If only there was a way of treating a set of pipes so they’d be protected from the worst the UK’s roads have to throw at them. Wouldn’t it be great if that treatment could also be easy to keep clean, stop the heat from cooking your legs, and look great at the same time?

Lamborghini Gallardo tailpipes waiting for the Zircotec touch.

Meet Zircotec A plasma spraying specialist, this Abingdon-based company started life as part of the Atomic Energy Authority, where it developed ceramic-based thermal coatings for the harsh environments of the nuclear power industry.

In 1993 the team was approached by ProDrive; the Subaru World Rally team. Having somehow heard about the coating, ProDrive asked if it could work on a car exhaust. The rally team was having issues with heat soaking through its car’s footwell, blistering the driver’s feet. At the time, it was untested on vehicles, but the nuclear specialist coated the entire exhaust system. ProDrive went on to win the championship, and Zircotec has been involved in motorsport ever since.

The car is currently sat in the Japanese Subaru museum, still with the original Zircotec coating in place.

Now working with all bar one of the current season’s Formula 1 race teams, this unique company isn’t just involved with worldwide motorsport.

Coatings are applied at twice the speed of sound, and at temps up to 14,000°C. Many manufacturers have insisted on non-disclosure agreements, but Zircotec’s marketing and sales director, Peter Whyman, was able to show us a shelf full of Lamborghini Gallardo tailpipes waiting for coating, and a carbon-fibre Aston Martin One77 rear diffuser. This composite melts at about 150°C, but the exhaust temperature gets up to 750°C. If you’re lucky enough to see one of these cars – worth over £1.1 million – check out the fins beside the tailpipes… they’ve got a Zircotec coating.

We also know that, as well as Lamborghini and Aston Martin having many of their exhaust parts

coated in the inconspicuous Oxfordshire industrial unit, hypercar manufacturer Koenigsegg has its entire exhaust system treated.

Building a mostly carbon-fibre vehicle, the Swedish company demands a lot of heat protection. In fact, when the system was coated, Koenigsegg was able to remove most of the heavy stainless steel heatshields originally fitted.

As part of its involvement with Lamborghini, Audi tested the coating by heating a treated component 30 times, to 500°C then quenching to 20°C. Other manufacturers have lifecycle-tested

coated parts in harsh analysis chambers that simulate 20 years of use. In every test, the coating remained intact. That’s why, when major companies need to solve a heat problem, they go to Zircotec.

What’s this mean for my bike?

The technology is primarily designed for thermal management… there are performance enhancements to be had, but the gains here are a closely guarded secret of the race teams. However, at the 2013 Motorcycle Live NEC show, Zircotec launched a product designed specifically for bikes.

KNOW-HOW 35 Heat shielding

Great care is taken in masking the parts with a special blast tape.

The F1 teams use a very rough coating, offering optimal thermal performance, but it’s costly, and the surface is hard to keep clean. So for bikes, Zircotec developed a new, slightly less thermally efficient ‘Endurance’ coating that’s smooth (very easy to keep clean) and –

A set of pipes stripped back to bare metal and ready for coating.

The first coat is on, and ready for the zirconia-based top coat.

crucially for road riders – less expensive. That doesn’t mean it’s ineffective: The car-oriented ‘Performance White’ coating reduces surface and radiant temperatures by 30-33%, but this only drops to 20-25% for the Endurance range.

Zircotec is very realistic about its product – there’s no suggestion that you’re going to notice increased performance from you bike, but

coating your downpipes, end-can or both will have many other benefits: keep heat away from plastic fairings; lower the risk of burning yourself; prevent your panniers/boots/clothing from melting; reduce the heat from an under-seat exhaust; add custom styling or of course to drastically prolong the life of your system. It’s this high level of protection your exhaust gets that opens up a huge market for Zircotec – commuters using their bikes throughout the year could save a fortune on rotted parts with this tough, resilient and easy to clean ceramic coating.

So how’s it applied?

All components are grit-blasted once they’re masked.

Once you’ve removed your exhaust and checked it’s sound (there’s no point coating something that’s already rotted through), you can send it to Zircotec.

Turnaround is up to 10 working days – it can be done faster for an additional cost, but everything has to be slotted in around the F1 work (and those guys will pay big premiums to wait overnight for a rush-job).

First, your parts are degreased where necessary, and masked with a special blast-tape, which can

The final finish is applied the next day – here’s a two-stroke expansion chamber ready for return. withstand the grit blasting and high temperatures in the process. Stripped back to bare metal, it’s on to the triple layer coating…

First a 50-100 micron thick nickelbased bond coat is applied using an electric arc gun that produces 10,000°C – 14,000°C, and sprays the material at twice the speed of sound.

Next is 200-250 microns of a proprietary zirconia-based ceramic mix. It’s this ceramic, and the millions of tiny air gaps the compound creates, that give the incredible thermal performance. Finally, there’s a colour finish, as required. Once it’s been through quality control (every item is carefully inspected), it’s returned, ready to bolt back on to your bike.

There are other products on the market, but they’re paints with some ceramic in, and around 10 times thinner than the total 300-350 micron thickness of the Zircotec coating. This is a very different process, and all of the experience and R&D that went on behind a 12ft barbed-wire fence when the company was part of the nuclear industry, mean this is not to be confused with other materials that at first glance might seem similar.

ZircoFlex is the company’s flexible heat shield material. It can be easily bent and manipulated, weighs just 0.46kg/m2, and is only 0.25mm thick. It’s being used everywhere from the inside of classic sportbike fairings (protecting the now rare plastics), to oilfields in the Caspian Sea. In a British Standard test for automotive heat shields, a traditional leading 5.25mm thick material reduced surface temperature by 35% at 500°C. The ZircoFlex reduced it by 63%.

It’s available in various sizes, formats and thicknesses from just £12 per sheet.

The price of the Endurance range is £42 + VAT (£50.40) per engine cylinder for a set of downpipes and collector box. For silencers, expect to pay £132 for a single end can, or £198 for a twin (£158.40 and £237.60 with VAT respectively). Because of the work involved, there’s a minimum purchase order of £120 + VAT. For more details, visit the website at www.zircotec.com MCM will be testing this coating on an exhaust system, so keep an eye out for updates in the paper and at morebikes.co.uk

36

Classified AJS 1953, 16MS, new stainless rims & spokes, tyres, tubes, seat, cyclon battery, all original parts available, excellent paint & chrome very original bike, £3600.

Tel. 01316 697536. Edinburgh.

AJS 37/22 twin port, reg 7** XUV, frame no 2060, engine no 37223259, requires full restoration but a nice project for, £3250.

Tel. 07747 807303. East Sussex.

BMW 1150GS Special, first reg 1/9/2001, Recon engine from Motorworks, mileage 35,000, fitted by P&H Motorcycles of Crawley, K&N filter, Hell brake lines, Touratech onboard computer, Akropovic exhaust, Trail Attack tyres, ready for green lanes or Sahara, light, fast & fun, years MoT & road tax, £3500 ono. Tel. 07961 197854. Greater London.

BMW G650GS 2012 (62), heated grips, centre stand, 2000 miles, five months warranty remaining, excellent condition, £4595. Tel. 07831 406310. Devon.

BMW K1200GT SE, ABS, heated grips, heated seats, factory fitted alarm and immobiliser, electric screen, ESA Xenon headlights, recent new front tyre, recent major service and cam chain replacement, 152bhp, large luggage storage, bar risers, shaft drive, t&t, average 47mpg, cruise control, Sept 2007, 57 plate, ABS model..

Tel. 01476 405493. Lincs.

BMW K1200R 2005, non ABS, 27,000 miles, ESA, heated grips, flyscreen, BMW panniers, currently on Sorn, will MoT for successful buyer, £4000 ovno. Tel. 01522 801871. Lincs.

BMW K1200R well cared for & rust free, Anti-lock breaking system, Electronic Suspension Adjustment, tyres good, engine change recently for a used approved engine with 22000 miles on it with six months warranty, taxed, MoT on sale,. Tel. 07871 354299. Bucks.

BMW R1100SS Boxer Cup, 2002, 16,700 miles, lovely sports tourer bike, panniers, heated grips, MoT March 2014, currently on Sorn, two owners since new, £4995.

Tel. 0208 301 4768 after 6pm.

Kent.

BMW R60/6 1975, only 3 owners, year’s MoT, 6 months’ tax, original unrestored cockpit fairing, panniers, new tyres, drum brakes, not used enough to ride or restore, £1650. Tel. 01482 866685.

E Yorks.

BMW K1 980cc, 1991, outstanding condition, metallic black, not restored, this K1 is on Sorn, 8,500 miles from new, £4750. or swap for large bore shot gun Tel. 07513 572737 for details.. E Yorks.

BMW R100 RT 1000cc, 1984, MoT June, twin shock, good condition, fairing, luggage, new tyres, pads, Sorned at moment, will tax at point of sale, £2500 ono. Tel. 02392 595307. Hants.

BMW R1200 GS Remus stainless steel exhaust can, matt black finish, as new, with all brackets, £220. Tel. 07771 807042. Lancs.

BMW R1200R 61 reg, 6500 miles, none ABS, computer, BMW panniers, engine guards,Wunderlich cockpit fairing, screen, many more extras showroom condition, £5995. Tel. 01406 550338. Lincs.

BSA WDB40 historic, tax free, full MoT, used yearly but fancy a change, low mileage since recommission in 1998, ex Denmark, BSA Club verified, £2600.

Tel. 07941 545422. Derbys.

BSA A7 500cc, 1954, red, unfinished project, new front tyre, engine has rebore and new pistons, crank has been rebuilt, electronic ignition, rewired. Could deliver at cost. £2750 ono. Tel. 01275 830922 for more details.. Bristol.

BSA B40 1965, good condition, matching numbers, not been used for a couple of years hence no MoT, not a problem to get one, £2450 ono. Tel. 01747 821673.

Dorset.

BSA C15 250cc, 1961, blue, good condition for year, £1495. ono; could deliver at cost. Tel. 01275 830922 for more details.. Bristol.

BSA D14/4 175cc, 1968, V5 doc, (tax free), dry stored for years, black, original 98%, a lightweight investment, last of the Bantams, £875. firm Tel. 01376 343559. N Essex.

BSA SUPER ROCKET 650cc, 1959, exempt t&t, forks, overhaul, wheels rebuilt, new pipes/silencer, record magnet, new seat cover, most paintwork, battery 6v, as new tyres, very smart bike, photos via phone, £6000 ovno.

Tel. 07941 473812. N Lincs.

CZ 250cc, 1979, fair condition, need piston rings, on Sorn, Offers Tel. 01392 275899. Devon.

DESPERATE DAN TRIKE 3.5 Rover V8, good runner, lots of stainless, sounds great, a real head turner, one owner, t&t, can possibly deliver, £12,500 ono. Tel. 07919 340204. Greater London.

DNEPR MT9 motorbike and sidecar combo 650cc, runs well, 1988, E reg, Army green reverse gear, £1800 ono. Tel. Garry 07773 686436. Herts.

DUCATI 750 SPORT 2001, standard bike in met black, 14,571 miles, no tax, May MoT, fair condition, £1400 ono. Tel. 01665 605496. Northumberland.

FORD PINTA TRIKE 2 litre, t&t, engine auto, sweet runner, recommend regulator or half rewire, swaps 12g double, anything considered but rather a British 500cc plus single? or Enfield trials, why? £1600 ono. Tel. 07503 760167.

Surrey.

GILERA GP800 2010, t&t, very good condition, 6400 miles, dealer serviced, two new tyres, £3999 exchange why? Tel. 01244 332435 or 07564 960647.

Cheshire.

GREEVES GRIFFIN 1972, sump guard pan in very old condition, £3000 ono. Tel. 07954 315967; 01206 501579. Essex.

GSXF 600 1999, in black, MoT end of May, new front tyre, seat cowl, nice looking bike, 22,400 miles, on Sorn, space needed, £895. ovno Tel. 07783 470754.

Glam.

HARLEY DAVIDSON Fat Boy, 1584cc, 2009, six gear, professionally custom painted & vgc, only 21,000 miles, six months tax, 11 months MoT, Vance & Hines exhaust, detachable windshield, plus Sissy bar & rack, photo doesn’t do it justice, £11,500. Tel. 0208 6437487. Surrey.

for private readers

LD

SO

1 2 3

ONLINE www.motorcyclemonthly.co.uk EMAIL freeads@motorcyclemonthly.co.uk POST MCM Reader Adverts, Media Centre, Morton Way, Horncastle, Lincs LN9 6JR

HONDA 650 Transalp, 2003, 26,542 miles, MoT Oct 2014, six months tax, HISS top box, h/grips, good tyres, Scottoiler, £1800 £1800.

Cambs.

HONDA CBF1000 06, lady owner, burnt orange, 15k, ex cond, new tyres, heated grips, t&t, £3200.

Tel. Linda 07786 263659. Derbyshire.

HARLEY DAVIDSON unique, custom chrome softail frame, tanks, frontend, billet front calliper, £9500, resprayed and new LA Pera saddle, V&H longshots,. Tel. 07990 070969. Gtr Man.

HONDA BLACKBIRD 1100cc, 1998, 30k miles, vgc, black!!

Honda boxes, rack, all standard, original condition, serviced, new battery, 12 months’ MoT, ready to go, £2000 no offers - great bike.

Tel. 07919 373318. Milton Keynes.

HONDA CBF1000GT ABS, 2009, silver, 15k miles, full MoT, usual GT extras plus host of other extras including Honda heated grips, hugger & rear seat pod, touring screen, engine bars (lower fairings included) hand deflectors, new tyres, superb condition, ready to tour, £3900. Tel. Frank 07836 629541. Lancs.

HARLEY DAVIDSON XLH 883 Sportster, 2003, red, vgc, full s/h, lots of chrome and many extras, full MoT and taxed, 20k miles, garaged, Screaming Eagle pipes plus standards, stunning bike, £3300 ono. Tel. 01803 310250.

Devon.

HARLEY SPORTSTER Bitubo rear shocks, fully adjustable, piggyback, top quality replacement dampers with back springs, boxed and in perfect condition, £195 ono. Tel. Mike 01243 786760. W Sussex.

HARLEY-DAVIDSON Dyna Lowrider, 1584cc, standard mufflers, £40; also touring dual seat, £80; both from 2007 low-rider plus p&p or collect. Tel. 01509 233041. Leics.

HARLEY DAVIDSON Super Glide 1600, 2010, 6,400 miles, as new, mint, show cond, back rack, luggage carrier, h/grips, rust proofed, starting own company, p/x Transit etc up to £2500. £9500 ovno. Tel. 07880 712544. Avon.

HARLEY DAVIDSON XLH 1200 Sportster, 1994, M reg, 30,400 miles, one year MoT and six months tax, red tank & fenders, polished engine casings, Billet 6 pot front caliper, custom seat, vgc, & loud pipes a real head turner, £4500. Tel. 07500 433792. North Yorkshire.

FREE

Choose one of the following methods:

HARLEY DAVIDSON 2005, Dyna Super Glide Sport, 1450cc, 9500 miles, Screamin’ Eagle pipes,new Avon Cobra tyres 150 miles ago, Pillion backrest & rack.. Tel. 07961 703242. Herts.

HONDA Super Blackbird, 1998, excellent condition, 23,900 miles, t&t, normal Blackbird refinements, £2000 ovno. Tel. Ken 0116 3679862. Leics.

DUCATI S4 MONSTER 2003, 15,000 miles, t&t, high level oval Termi’s, carbon exhaust shields, hugger, front vented guard, clutch cover, belt covers etc.Aftermarket levers, polished yokes, history & previous MoT’s with three keys, serviced, belts fitted last year, vgc,. Tel. 07722 333208. Tyne & Wear.

Selling your bike is

HONDA 500T 1976, complete bike for spares or restoration, also two near complete engines, all in good condition, £800 the lot, will separate Tel. 01438 358450. hamerhub@gmail.com for photos. Herts.

HONDA NTV 650 1995, M reg, black, V-Twin, shaft Drive, taxed end April, tested end Aug, rack, top box, fairing, fender extender, stainless pipes, Motad silencer, 2 keys,V5C in my name, good tyres, vgc, £750. ono; possible p/x Tel. 01977 510546. W Yorks.

HONDA C90 or similar models wanted, non runners and MoT failures all welcome. Cash on collection. Tel. Jay on 07749 488367. Gtr London.

HONDA CB750FA V reg, 1980, last MoT at 29,992 in June 2012, bought has a non runner but now running, £700. Tel. Paul 01943 875279 after 6pm. Leeds.

HONDA CBF 1000F A7, 2007 reg, Mr A screen, Givi panniers, new tyres and batteries, 24k miles, hand extenders, crash bobbins, belly pan, lots more extras, lovely condition, £3200. Tel. 01282 697827; 07743 850361. N W Lancs.

HONDA CBF 500 2006, excellent condition, tax and MoT, £2000.

Tel. 01524 60793. Lancs.

HONDA FIRESTORM VTR 1000F 996cc, 6 mths t&t, full s/h, black, 1997, P reg, 39,750 miles, good tyres, yellow wheels, Afam chair, data tagged, private seller, all MoTs/service books, original exhausts with baffles, current owner 3 years 10 months, many extras, £1000. cash (no offers) Tel. 0777 2291446. Bath, S West.

HONDA CBF125 2009, silver, excellent condition, 10,370 miles, t&t June, owned three years, £1550 ono. Tel. 01386 556339.

Worcestershire.

HONDA CBF600 2009, one owner, only 3600 miles, absolutely mint, like new, no winter use, only sensible extras, stand, Scottoiler, hugger, rack etc, reducing collection, £3495. Tel. 01235 553574. Oxon.

HONDA CBF600S reg no. MT09 KKB, lady owner, 7400 miles, dry use only, immaculate condition, Honda panniers, professionally maintained, £3850. Tel. 01313 362640; 07917 074598. Edinburgh.

HONDA CBR 600 1993, only 4 owners from new, great bike, great condition for age, low mileage, sad to sell but sadly have to,. Tel. 0161 8794056. Gtr Man. HONDA VFR 800 V-Tech, abs, 2002, red, 10k miles, one owner, Datatool alarm, recent 12k, Honda service, t&t, new battery, £3150 ono. Tel. 01543 480467. W Mids.

HONDA CBR 600FA Taxed Sept 2011, 2,800 miles, as new, many extras, one mature rider, owned from new, garaged, fabulous machine to ride, serviced at 600 miles, tyres as new, £5000. Tel. 01482 850593. Hull, N Humbs.

HONDA CBR1000F 46,978 miles, full Givi touring system, 12 month MoT, 1992,. Tel. 07799 633434.

Cumbria.

HONDA CBR400RR NC29, 1990, t&t end of May, 35,834KM/H, clean and tidy well looked after, some history and spare parts, £700 ono. Tel. 07715 88104.

Lincs.

HONDA CBR600 F-Y, 2000, W reg, MoT March 2015, tax Sept 2014, 26k, fsh, all receipts/MoTs from new, totally unmolested, dry weather ridden only, garaged through winter, great bike in great condition, £2250 ovno.Tel. 01279 422229. Essex.

HONDA CBR600F 99 (T), red/purple, 22,000 miles, MoT/tax July 2014, fsh, top box & rack, vgc, extras available, £2000. Tel. 07711 569758. Surrey.

HONDA CBR600FY 2000, excellent condition, virtually unmarked, genuine 16,000 miles, service history, old MoTs, Meta alarm, MoT July 2014, rides superb, £2250 ono. Tel. 07914 717781.

Leics.

HONDA CB 1300 (ABS), 6,300 miles, 08, black, naked Beowulf rad guard can, fly screen, heated grips, hugger, Extenda BTO16s, tank pad, t&t, fully serviced, this bike gets looks wherever I park up. Tel. 01452 780280. Glos.

CLASSIFIED HONDA CBR900 FIREBLADE X reg, mint condition, MoT, £2450.

Tel. 01628 521741. High Wycombe area.

HONDA CG 125 2005, s/s plate, 12 months’ MoT, new shape, blue, excellent condition, 8,748 miles, s/h, £995 ovno. Tel. 075000 26841. S Wales.

HONDA CX 500 1978, now has carrier fitted, new MoT 2015, 5,000 genuine miles, have all history, MoTs, too heavy for me, £1600. Tel. 01767 691209 (leave message and number). Beds.

HONDA DEAUVILLE 2004 NT650V, lowered footpeg kit & extra (removeable) seat padding,very comfortable, ideal for taller rider, new rear tyre, new Motad can, full MoT, taxed, Honda topbox, heated grips, Gerbing heated jacket connector, £1950.

Tel. 01325 288652. Durham.

HONDA DEAUVILLE Semi-automatic, 2004, NT650V, Kliktronic, push button gear change and lowered footpegs, ideal for rider with left leg disability, new rear tyre, new Motad can, full MoT, tax, Honda topbox, heated grips, Gerbing heated jacket connector, £2300. Tel. 01325 288652. CoDurham.

HONDA DEAUVILLE NTV 650 18,000 miles, 11 months' test, 5 months MoT, vgc, Givi large top box, heated grips, 500 miles on new tyres, black, deep purple, £1500. Tel. 07909 502193. W Yorks.

HONDA F6C Valkyrie, 2001, show winner 17k, fsh, new Avon tyres, superb condition and rides like a dream, never seen rain, a true one-off with amazing spec, only £6950 ono. Tel. 07515 883087.

South Yorkshire.

HONDA F6C 1500cc trike, 2001, t&t, 16k miles, Datatool alarm, converted 2012, BB customs, lovely condition, first to see will buy, £12,000.Tel. 079790 80413.

Carlisle.

HONDA GOLDWING GL1100i, 1982, imported from USA as a non-runner, engine rebuilt and bike fully restored, original paintwork, 12 months t&t.. Tel. 07766 894925. Staffs.

HONDA HORNET 2007, t&t until October 2014, low mileage 6100, full service history.. Tel. 01398 331576. Devon.

Subscribe to Motor Cycle Monthly: www.classicmagazines.co.uk/MCM or call 01507 529529

HONDA MONKEY ST 50 1971, tax exempt, just 1300 miles from new, time-warp original, starts first kick, rare like this, £1250. £1250.Tel. 01904 700277.Yorks.

HONDA SH 125 Automatic, 2012, top box, good condition, one owner, taxed 2015, 200 miles, £900. Tel. 01566 778616. Cornwall.

HONDA ST1300A 1300cc, ABS, H/grips, cc top box, large and standard screen, MoT August, 44k, vgc, owned five years, superb bike, £4195 ono. Tel. 01246 202479. Derbyshire.

HONDA SUPERMAGNA 1987 VF700C, V4 Shaft Drive Watercooled, just passed MoT no problems, currently on Sorn, great runner, nice, rare, great looking high performance reliable classic Honda, low mileage 25,000 miles, solid mag back wheel 4 into 4 original upswept pipes, ideal summer cruiser with style, £1750. Tel. 01386 442608.

Worcs.

HONDA K3 1971, bike fairly good condition, spare engine, Offers Tel. 01392 275899. Devon.

HONDA LM TWIN 5-speed, 125cc, electric start, 1982, all up together requires battery and recommissioning, not used 9 years, £400 ono. Tel. 01252 657059 after 6pm. Aldershot, Hants.

HONDA VF 500F 2E 1985, new tyres back and front, new exhaust pipes, new clutch, slave cylinder kit, £850 ono. Tel. 01582 604891.

Beds.

HONDA CB 200 1976, 12,190 genuine miles, s/h, 2 owners from new, economical, last used in 1982, requires exhausts, side panels, air cleaner assembly and battery, £250. Tel. 07749 876511.

Herts.

HONDA VFR 800FI 2001, Y reg, recent tyres, battery, chain & sprockets, MoT 7/14, no blemishes never been dropped, one previous owner, 38,000 miles, heated grips signal repeaters, optional extras, £1850 ono. Tel. 01704 878805. Lancs.

HONDA V-TWIN CX500 Shaftdrive, 1982, vgc, rebuilt, new MoT, new alternator, battery, tyres; also Rickman Polaris fairing and top box, not fitted, £1195 ono. Tel. 01273 812101. E Sussex.

HONDA XBR500 H, 1987, one of the cleanest you’ll find, loads spent, just serviced, call for full details, can email pics, £1650 ono. Tel. Colin 07754 887584.

Cambs.

HONDA XR 650R Dakar bike, too many parts to list, finished 47th in 2005 Dakar, unused since rebuild, not for the faint hearted, £3500.

Tel. 077720 85373 for details.

Worcs.

HONDA 650 Deauville frame, undamaged, with V5C, £180; 2002 bike, also complete H.I.S.S. system, 2 keys, £150; other parts available but no bodywork, £150.

Tel. Simon 01784 461961. Surrey.

HONDA C90 85cc, 30k, good original condition, new tyres, exhaust, t&t October, perfect runner, very economical, c/w box of spares, 02 plate, £800. Tel. 0777 6728734. W Mids.

HONDA CB 1300 20k miles, MoT (new), taxed, new tyres, hugger, fly screen, 04 reg, immaculate condition, garaged, open to offers, £3500. Tel. 01424 425856; 0777 3084372. Sussex.

HONDA CB-1 400 F reg, 1989, import, not running but spins over, needs some work for MoT, been stood since 09, not bad condition, must go, £295. Tel. 01642 477983. N Yorks.

HONDA CB650 Nighthawk/Z also about 1980/81 basket case with spare engine, bit of a mish mash of parts but it will rebuild as it's all there, £300. Tel. Paul 01943 875279 after 6pm. Leeds.

HONDA CB 250/4 Jade, wheels, front 110/80/17, rear 130/80/17, 7-spoke, suit Supermoto, forks and yokes, rear end, odd other parts Honda CBX 750 engine, £175; rear whee/shock/swing arm Honda NTV 600/650 spars/engines, £175. Tel. 07858 134475. Durham.

HONDA CG 125cc, 55 reg, tax and MoT, vgc for year, start first time, tuned, new rear tyre, new chrome exhaust, colour red, offers around £1000. Tel. 01502 568843. Suffolk.

HONDA INNOVA ANF 125cc, 2011, as new, 2,471 miles, screen, top box, serviced, one owner, winter spent in vac bag, £1500. Tel. 01988 700597; 07788 122743. SW Scotland.

HONDA SH 3001cc, ABS, automatic, manufacturer's warranty, only 750 miles from new, age forces sale, showroom condition, red, h/grips, high screen, £3700.

Tel. 0208 6530227. Surrey.

HONDA VT 750S 750cc, 2012, tricolour, one mature owner, only 1800 miles, £3600; Yamaha YBR 125, 2011, Givi screen, and top box, 800 miles only, mature owner, not learner, £1650. Tel. 01244 312816. Chester.

KAWASAKI GPX750 original condition, new battery, service history, factory manual, toolkit, handbook, all receipts, heated grips, fast & very reliable 50mpg, £850. Tel. 07984 458684.

Northants.

KAWASAKI 250R Ninja 250cc, excellent condition, includes all the gear, helmets etc, 20k miles, 2009, £2000 ono. Tel. 01492 593609. N Wales.

KAWASAKI K1000 06 model, 18k miles, one owner from new, service history, tail tidy gear counter, tax/MoT, £3500 ono. Tel. 07590 591988. Stirling.

KAWASAKI VN1500 Drifter with Watsonian GP sidecar, 2000, MoT tax to 2015, 27,121 miles, well setup outfit, all in excellent condition, spares included, £4950 ono.

Tel. 01663 763057. Cheshire.

ICONIC RV 125 VAN VAN (Suzuki sand bike), excellent condition, only 3,170 miles on clock, MoT until Jul 14, Sorned, has been declared, very economical, ideal learner commuter or fun bike. £1350. no offers; bargain price.

Please leave name and number calls will be returned. Tel. 01407 710571.

KAWASAKI ER650F 2006, silver, 3700 miles, vgc, dry summer use only, kept in garage, must be seen, £2350 ono. Tel. 07788 933817. Berkshire.

KAWASAKI KZ650 Green, 78/B2 with recent new tyres, brakes, r/shocks, battery and electrics, excellent running order and condition, 6 months' MoT, on Sorn, £1500. Tel. 01364 653515; 01803 607265. Torquay.

KAWASAKI VN900 classic 2010, 6000 dry miles only, excellent condition, £2000 worth of extras, £4750 ovno. Tel. 07958 532630.

Essex.

KAWASAKI W650 2002, 41,000km, good condition, regularly serviced & MoT till August, engine bars, Givi pannier racks, rear rack, heated grips, Scottoiler, £2700.Tel. 01539 725292. South Cumbria.

KAWASAKI KZ 650 B2 Green, 38k miles with excellent engine, gearbox and cosmetics likewise! recent tyres, f/brake, shocks, battery and electrics in excellent condition, with MoT, £1500. Tel. 01803 607265 or 01364 65315.

Torquay.

KAWASAKI ZX10 997cc, 9 mths’ MoT, 5 mths’ tax, Nexxus 4-1 s/s exhaust, smoked touring screen, Goodridge hoses, new pads, battery and fork seals, 47k, Scottoiler, w/shop manual, £850 ono. Tel. 07989 237837. Staffs.

KAWASAKI GT 550 no MoT, needs work on front brakes, good runner, ideal commute/winter hack trike, must go, space required, half another bike, new front rear tyres, Tel. 01202 748128. Dorset.

KAWASAKI ZX10 2007, in very good condition, 25,600 miles, taxed 6 months, MoT 03/2015, if interested please contact me for full description, £4000.Tel. 07752 127553. Essex.

KAWASAKI KZ 650 1978, in excellent all round condition, c/w new tyres, brakes, shocks and electrics, on Sorn but has MoT, £1500. Tel. 01803 607265 or 01364 653515. Torquay.

KAWASAKI KZ 650 American import, custom t&t, very clean bike, possible swop for Yamaha XS 650 £850 ono.Tel.Chris 078490 15799.

KAWASAKI KZ+Z 1300 x 2, first one black, Ratty 6-into-1, 1982, X reg, needs little work, too good to break, carb'd, second bike Cali import, lovely condition, very low miles, met blue, stainless b/lines, engine bolts (s/s cap screws), Lawson style seat, any trial, both my bikes for a long time now (no messieurs), genuine reason for sale. For more info/offers tel.

07984 186551. S E London.

KAWASAKI SCORPION 250cc, spares or repair, ignition problem, otherwise in good condition, £100 ono. Tel. 01522 750349. Lincs.

KAWASAKI ZX600C1 1988 reg, basket case but some work already done, some new paint ie frame & wheels & some small parts new tyres, new head gasket but no fairing would make a nice Streetfighter, £350. Tel. Paul 01943 875279 after 6pm. Leeds.

KAWASAKI ZZR 1100 CI 1052cc, black, 31,511 miles, MoT, Sorned, vgc, 1990 or p/x for Suzuki TS 125X, dirt bike or anything similar considered, any condition, Tel. 07816 828126. Lancs.

KAWASAKI ZX10 B2 997cc, 1990, blue, exc runner, exc cond, all bills, all MoTs, new battery, s/h, garaged, expensive paint job, gold wheels, on Sorn, 2 former owners, £1400. Tel. 07510 431379.

Northumberland.

KAWASAKI ZX6R 2010, black, taxed/MoT, 8500k, one owner, lowered, s/h, frame sliders, seat cowl, short levers, Rentec rack, race can, K&N air filter, Iridium plugs, manual on CD, alarm, 3 keys, good condition and well maintained regardless of cost, £5250. Tel. 07776 233750. .

KAWASAKI ZZR400N 1993, 20,000 miles, little shabby, but good for age, New Mich PR on front, uprated Nissin brakes, recently serviced, £800. Tel. 07813 888028. Greater London.

KTM 950SMR mint clean bike, MoT July no tax, Beowolf cans, 9000 miles,. Tel. 07570 799514.

Durham.

LEXMOTO VALENCIA 50cc scooter, 2k miles only, full year's tax, 2-seater, backrest, rear zip, Oxford black bag, half on road, new scooter forces sale, new price of £550. for quick sale Tel. 07746 224849. W Yorks.

MZ ETZ 125 Saxon Roadstar, 1993, 33,000 miles, currently on Sorn, £375. Tel. Ken 0116 3679862. Leics.

CLASSIFIED

Selling your bike is FREE for private readers

Online: www.motorcyclemonthly.co.uk Email: freeads@motorcyclemonthly.co.uk Post: MCM Reader Adverts, Media Centre, Morton Way, Horncastle LN9 6JR ROYAL ENFIELD ELECTRA X 500cc, 2007, black, mint condition, 2,250 miles, t&t, extras, £1600. Tel. 01654 702680 for more info.. Powys, Mid Wales.

MZ TS125 1987, running order, sound condition, on Sorn, spare frame, £395 ono. Tel. 07810 162057. Northumberland.

MOTO GUZZI V11 2004 Sport Cafe Racer, very rare & soughtafter Sports cruiser 1100cc in vgc, six months t&t, just had a full service & tune up, first to see will buy, £4495 ono. Tel. 07748 654532. Leics.

NORTON (CAMMY) 350 1936, in race trim, engine needs little work to complete, £950. take p/x basket case flat-tanker or other interesting bike Tel. 01978 842668.

Clwyd.

NSU QUICKLY 49cc, 1966, F23, 3-speed model, dual-seat, rear suspension, alloy brake hubs/wheel rims, good tidy sound useable machine, many new parts fitted, running order, V5C, £750. Tel. 01268 735135. Essex.

ROYAL ENFIELD Electra X, 2007, 7,000 miles, Highway kit, new battery, Rex Bunn crankcase breather, screen, large Givi topbox, workshop and parts manuals, some spares, tax to December 2014, MoT 22/5/14, needs new Sprag clutch, hence £1500.Tel. 01494 774078. Buckinghamshire.

ROYAL ENFIELD 500cc Bullet, reg Feb 2012, fuel injection, black, excellent condition, windscreen, crash bars, Royal Enfield panniers, top box, 2,500 miles only, cost £4500 new, accept £2750. or p/x for newish low-mileage Jap bike up to 600cc Tel. 01920 468490 eves/w'ends. Herts.

ROYAL ENFIELD Bullet 500cc Electra Classic EFi, excellent condition, 7300miles, tax & test, screen full set replacement cables Avon road rider, £2950 ono.

Tel. 01388 608132. Tyne & Wear.

ROYAL ENFIELD Bullet 500cc, 1992, very low mileage, 20 yrs dry garaged, new condition, original seat inc, £1350. Tel. 01298 85177. Nr Derbys.

ROYAL ENFIELD 350 Electra, stunning condition, 900 careful miles, 12 months tax and test, easy to service, reliable nostalgia biking, £1800. Tel. 01629 57408.

Derbyshire.

RIEJU RS3 125 60 reg, 5,728 miles on the clock, engine sale as I have joined HM forces, £1995.

Tel. 01472 398012. Lincs.

ROYAL ENFIELD Bullet, 500cc, 1992, very low mileage, new cond, dry, garaged 20 yrs, MoT/taxed, £1350. Tel. 01298 85177. Derbys.

ROYAL ENFIELD GP5 frame no, 02, sold to me by John Hartle in the 60s, still have the letter, been in my attic ever since, consists of frame, front forks, clip-ons, rear swinging arm, fibreglass tank cum seat, a Starmaker engine, c/w 1 3/8 carbs expansion exhaust, £4500 ono. Tel. 0161 4329676. Cheshire.

ROYAL ENFIELD CLASSIC EFI red, loads of genuine access, nice condition, under 3k miles, yr 2011, £3000. Tel. 07855 163413.

W Mids.

SUZUKI BANDIT GSF650SA, 2008, silver, ABS, hugger, 3200 miles, exc cond, garaged, £2950.

Tel. 07843 483457. Powys.

SKY WING SW50F 8 months t&t, clutch jams on, cam not working, f/brake jams on, good tyres, wheels, good engine, lots of bits done, 191km or break for bits, 2005, £59 ono. Tel. 0208 8591313. London.

SUNBEAM MOD 5 1930, good old 500 S/V, needs few adjustments, £6950. take as p/x flattanker or interesting bike, any condition project (basket case) Tel. 01978 842668. Clwyd.

SUZUKI 1250 BANDIT 2010, Grand Tourer, 9000 miles, 12 months MoT, 6 months tax, service history, extras include Fender Extender, Heated grips, handle bar raisers, touring screen (original included), colour coded hugger, other extras at a price, colour coded Bagster tank cover and bag, genuine reason for sale, no tyre kickers please, £4500. Tel. 07855 327280. Gloucestershire.

SUZUKI BANDIT 650cc, 2010 reg, one owner from new, fantastic serviced as new condition, 9600 miles, first to see will buy, £2600. Tel. 01691 661208.

Shropshire.

SUZUKI ADDRESS 125cc motorcycle, 2010, only done 6,500 miles, top box, t&t, full s/h, showroom condition, £895. Tel. 0116 2877574. Leics.

SUZUKI BANDIT 1200N S reg, 1998, nice bike, looks/handles and sounds well, Yoshi pipe, tax and MoT, £1700 ono. Tel. 07590 591988. Stirling.

SUZUKI BANDIT 650 10 plate, faired with ABS, one previous owner, 5700 miles, 12 months MoT, excellent condition, new Bridgestone tyres, fsh and two keys,. Tel. 07818 518003. West Midlands.

SUZUKI BANDIT 650 2007, very low mileage, matching blue topbox, ABS, 12 months MoT, just needs tax, mint condition, garaged, reluctant to sell, £2750.

Tel. 07964 060662. Norfolk.

SUZUKI 600 GSF 02, needs attention, snapped exhaust bolt, 1200 miles, new tyres, good chain pads, new battery, swap commuter Enduro, value £1800. delivery available Tel. 07796 481113. Durham.

SUZUKI B120 basket case, complete bike for spares, £70. Tel. 01932 785992. Sunbury on Thames.

SUZUKI BURGMAN AN400 18,500 miles, MoT/tax March 2015, full dealership s/h, one mature owner from new, £1900. Tel. Eric on 01642 325253; 07974 798874. Teesside.

SUZUKI D1 1000 K2,V Strom, fsh, 30,000 miles, photographic proof of work done, vgc, handguards, heated grips, back box plate, Givi touring screen, good tyres & chain,. Tel. 07534 427312. Lanarkshire.

SUZUKI DL1000GT K7, 6500 miles, one owner from new, phone for more info.. Tel. 07917 713743. Glamorgan.

SUZUKI GP 125 1981, just 6,500 miles, all MoTs, t&t, exchange Suzuki X5 200cc, standard good condition, with working electric starter, cash adjustment..Tel. Paul 01202 427222. Dorset.

SUZUKI 650 V-TWIN 61 reg, MoT, excellent condition, 47k miles, £3000. ovno Tel. 01424 722802; 07852 848615. Sussex.

SUZUKI BURGMAN 650 Exec, ABS, electric screen and mirrors, 2005, 50,000 miles, private plate on Sorn, has MoT, top box, good condition, £2000. or offers Tel. 01604 880822. Northants.

SUZUKI GS 1000 EN new tank, forks, hard chromed, new battery, recent ‘O’ ring chain, good tyres, Boyer ignition system, tested July, will put full test on, any enquiries welcome. £2000 ono. Tel. 01642 488493. Teesside.

SUZUKI GSXR K2 600cc, 2002, 17,740 miles, vgc, hardly used past few years, nearly new tyres, new pads, Suzuki battery one year ago, tool kit, hand/service book, MoT, 6 mths’ tax, £2700 ono. Tel. 01787 319252; 07450 243619. Suffolk.

SUZUKI T350 1972, UK bike, matching frame & engine numbers, MoT & tax to June 2014, regularly ridden, nearly all major components are original, not a show pony but very good condition at 42 years old, a great bike to be used & enjoyed, £2950. Tel. 07801 808552. Cheshire.

SUZUKI GSF600X one lady owner from new, built to my spec by TrikeShop Cardiff in 1999, 9500 dry miles, always garaged, fully adjustable wish-bone suspension on rear, Gas shocks, 185/65/14 tyres, new service and MoT, £3800 ono. Tel. Kay 01646 651058. Pembrokeshire.

SUZUKI MARAUDER GZ125 K6, 2006, 12,843 miles, 12 months MoT, 12 months tax, fantastic bike in great condition which will make an ideal commuter or first time legal learner motorbike,. Tel. 07976 322285. Glamorgan.

SUZUKI TL1000S-V 1997, red, superb condition, owned by me since 1999, one previous owner, 20,934 miles, New Pirelli Angel ST tyres and battery, MoT, £1995.

Tel. 02392 267403. Hampshire.

SUZUKI GSR600 2007, silver/ black, vgc, 17,800 miles, 12mth MoT, Givi full luggage rack including two panniers, Baglux tank cover, rear hugger, black screen, garaged. £2750. Tel. 07930 446953. Lancs.

SUZUKI GSX1100G Street fighter-ish, 32,000 miles, MoT from 7/03/14, torn seat, choke cable broken, good runner, £1300.Tel. 07783 373912. Buckinghamshire.

SUZUKI HAYABUSA 1998, bronze/silver, unrestricted low miles, £3500. no offers Tel. 0121 4757249. B'ham W Mids.

SUZUKI RF600 1995, metallic blue, 16,000 miles, very good condition, genuine bike, MoT March 2015, tax May 2014, £1000 ovno. Tel. 01535 600301.

West Yorks.

SUZUKI SV 1000 K3 2004, red, 19k miles, good condition, tank bag cover, new battery, good tyres,c hair, brakes, can tax, MoT Jun 14, reliable, reluctant sale, £2500. Tel. 01642 872683; 07766 133748. Cleveland.

SUZUKI RMX 50 Enduro, road registered, complete bike but engine seized, £600. ono or consider breaking. Tel. 0121 5598529.

B'ham.

SUZUKI VL125 2007, full t&t, 6000 miles, vgc, £1795 ono. Tel. 07538 026515. Glamorgan.

SUZUKI GS 500 selling useful good spares including standard exhaust system, petrol tank, carbs, starter motor, CDI unit and lots more, no longer needed. Sell individually or as a lot for £115.

Tel. 07817 484177. W Yorks.

SUZUKI GSF 600 BANDIT (1995 to 1999) original exhaust downpipes, two silencers, all in good condition, but both downpipe and one silencer requiring Banditmania repair, £50. the lot Tel. 07749 876511. Herts.

SUZUKI GSX 250 1981, t&t June, good engine, tyres, C&S, £250.

Tel. 07979 410337. Hants.

SUZUKI RF 900 900cc, 1997, 28k miles, green, t&t, in nice condition and quick, consider p/x or exchange for road registered trials bike or sell £1350. Tel. 07790 51582. Shrops.

Kawasaki GPz900R Every month Steve Cooper from the Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club picks out another great example of classic oriental metal.

TO THINK of the GPz as ‘just another old bike’ is to miss everything the 30-year-old Ninja gave the world of motorcycling…

If you own a liquid-cooled four-cylinder motorcycle today, you owe a debt of thanks to Kawasaki. And assuming you enjoy the handling and the performance as one honed and considered entity, you probably should be on your knees and giving thanks that Kawasaki produced the GPz900R. History tells us that Honda built the first superbike, but it was Kawasaki that built the modern superbike; others could have, but in the end it was a very special K that laid down the foundations of pretty much every modern sports machine that still has a place today.

Japanese manufacturers are not known for their sentimentality, and don’t keep old models running just for fun, yet the GPz was so right, it was

available in some markets as late as 2004. The main reason you can’t buy one now is simply down to emissions regulations.

Before the 900R, Japanese motorcycles with any genuine pretence of performance generally handled like drunken giraffes on ice skates. Power overwhelmed chassis, mass overwhelmed tyres, performance overwhelmed suspension, more weight and bracing got added to next year’s model and the whole crazy cycle started again.

Kawasaki took a long hard look at bike design: compared to its seminal Z1 it managed to reduce the width by five inches; length by two; along with a staggering 11 kilos of weight.

It probably doesn’t sound significant now, but at launch these apparently simple changes weren’t just significant, they were fundamentally ground breaking.

If the basic numbers were intriguing then the design remit was something else.

Today we’re constantly alerted to the latest minor technical updates to a bike’s chassis, but in 1984 the lumps of metal that held the engine to the wheels and suspension were almost afterthoughts. Kawasaki knew this and designed the frame and engine as one cohesive unit; an apparently simple structure whereby the functionality of one substantially benefited the other and vice versa. In a single groundbreaking design, the basic DNA of the motorcycle had been irrevocably changed.

Even now these bikes are good value, but it’s worth knowing what to look for: A1/A2 models experienced cam pitting, but most were sorted out under warranty.

Suspension linkages can seize, and need to be properly lubricated, so avoid any

example that squeaks when you sit on it. Tanks are infamous for rotting out at the bottom rear corners, so look for bubbling paint. Misfires are often down to the absence of a sidestand cut out; for some inexplicable reason Kawasaki used it as an earth for the CDI! Back in the day, the Ninja gained a reputation for overheating in traffic, so many owners fitted a fan override switch to take control if the gauge got to the angry zone.

Finally, if the bike won’t turn over on the button, it could be the sprag clutch for the starter… walk away, as it’s

a big job. Other than that, the bikes are normally mega reliable.

Why not visit the 34th Carole Nash International Classic MotorCycle Show on Saturday/Sunday, April 24-25?

The Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club will be there with a small display of what floats members’ boats. The club’s stand isn’t massive at the April shows but what it lacks in sheer numbers it more than makes up for in quality. Just to scramble your brain, there is a Yamaha TZR250 with its carbs where you’d expect the exhaust to be and the exhaust where the

Want your fix of Japanese classics? Then you need...

5 issues for £12 Visit www.classicmagazines.co.uk/cmmvjmc Call: 01507

529529 and quote code: CMMVJMC

Expiry: 30/05/2014 *UK only offer

carbs normally hang out, a 1999 Suzuki TL1000R (Japan’s, answer to a Ducati), a badass Kawasaki H2 750 triple, a 1970s must-have learner Suzuki T250R, Honda’s sublime CB400/4, an early Gold Wing from the same stable, and an exquisite Suzuki T200 twin from 1967. To finish up there’s also the son of the GPz900R; the Kawasaki GPz1000RX. See you there!

The VJMC: run by motorcyclists for motorcyclists www.vjmc.com membership_vjmc@yahoo.co.uk 01324 410519

CLASSIFIED SUZUKI GSXR 250 Jap import, spares 92 Suzuki Bandit 400, 90 spares, GT 250 spares GT 125 spares 77, Pulse Adrenalin 125 front end and rear wheel, forks/yokes for Jap bikes, Kawak GT 550, GT 750, Z750, 1650 Yam XJ 650, XJ650 Maxim. Tel. 07858 134475 (text/phone). Durham.

SUZUKI HAYABUSA 1300 2007, first generation, Rentech luggage carrier, used twice, £25. plus postage Tel. 07880 712544.Avon.

SUZUKI RGV 250 UK, 1992, J reg, Classic 2 stroke, only 4 previous owners, new battery, new front brake pads, new spark plugs, full MoT when sold, 19,392 miles, very good condition, only used in summer months, only a few small scratched to paintwork, and a small dent on fuel tank, sold as seen, £3500 ono. Tel. 07517 817839. Cambs.

SUZUKI TL 1000S 8,500 miles, green, new battery, fork seals, oil plugs, Cat D 14 years ago! runs and rides perfect, have all MoT certs, £1750. Tel. 078660 32543.

York.

SYM 125 motorcycle silver, 4000 miles, t&t, vgc,. Tel. 01246 476659. Derbyshire.

TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE Jubilee T140J, T reg, (79) 9600 miles, Sorn, good condition, Boyer ignition wheel chrome, tired but serviceable, new RHS switchgear runs well everything works, C+S tyres etc ok, £3999. Tel. 01350 727498. Perthshire.

TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE SE 2011, 4600 miles, tax, h/grips, Q/D screen, c/stand, carrier, power socket, garaged, immaculate, £5000. Tel. 01823 669155. Somerset.

TRIUMPH SPRINT 1050 ST, 2007, FTSH, 12 mths MoT, 29,200 miles, rear hugger, tail tidy, sports exhaust, always garaged, never used in winter, good general condition, well worth a look, £3550 ono. Tel. 01204 412998. Greater Manchester.

SYM XS125K black, 2009, approx 14,000 miles, new rear tyre and chain, two female owners, good condition, currently on Sorn, £650 ono. Tel. Claire 01209 212034. Cornwall.

TRIUMPH SPRINT ST1050, 2007, 46k miles, new brake pads, oil & filter, plugs, R&G bungs, bubble screen, S4 alarmed, S/h, garaged, all MoT docs, £3250. Tel. 07981 836779. Middx.

TRIUMPH Rocket Three, 2013/13, Phantom Black, 1400m only, Triumph cat 1 alarm, crash bars, Sissybar, all keys, V5 & paper work, finance clear, immaculate condition, must be seen, £10,000 absolute bargain Tel. 07775 68009. Essex.

TRIUMPH Speed Triple 955i, 2003 on 53 plate, totally immaculate, pampered bike, just under 12,000 miles with extensive history, valves clearances done last year during major service, new battery, many extras including carbon fibre frame protectors and bar ends, mirror extenders, custom levers, alarm, trident high level Titanium exhaust, original exhaust/seat etc included.. Tel. 07964 275404. Glamorgan.

TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE T100 spec, 2004, 5800 miles, 2 into 1, rear sets + originals, vgc, £3400.

Tel. 01403 241413. West Sussex.

TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE America, 2007, less than 3000 miles, vgc, £4000 ono. Tel. 07852 673167.

Suffolk.

TRIUMPH THUNDERBRID 900cc, red, 2001, 17,800 miles, 12 months MoT, tax until June, fsh, new tyres, £3499 ono. Tel. 01527 576374. Worcestershire.

TRIUMPH SPRINT ST immac, one owner, minimal mileage 2700, dealer fitted alarm/ immobiliser heated grips, crash protectors, t&t Mar 15, matching panniers, tyres everything, vgc, £5400. Tel. 01424 436751. E Sussex.

TRIUMPH TIGER 800 2012, 5200 miles, genuine Triumph touring screen & handguards, Kappa topbox, very good condition, £5300 ovno. Tel. Jim Griffin 07850 548448. Gloucestershire.

TRIUMPH TR6 TROPHY 650 1969, T120R engine, free road tax, on Sorn, vgc, £4300. Tel. 0151 2578093; 079460 24647.

Cheshire.

TRIUMPH TR6P 1972, 650cc, MoT, good runner, good condition, £3200 ono. Tel. 01244 549991.

Flintshire.

TRIUMPH TR6R Tiger 650, 1971, with colour-matched Watsonian Squire sidecar, tax exempt, MoT end July, £4500 or offer Tel. 02392 583692. Hants.

Subscribe to Motor Cycle Monthly: www.classicmagazines.co.uk/MCM or call 01507 529529

TRIUMPH TRW 1964, excellent post war military bike, 500cc side valve twin, original Solex carb, 6 volt electrics, panniers, some history, £4500. Tel. 07798 866071.

Greater London.

TRIUMPH 3TA (T21) 350cc twin, 1964, "bathtub", new battery, crank Bush (r/h) replaced, easy starter, good runner, very tidy, photos via phone, old age/health forces sale, met blue, £3000. Tel. 07941 473812. N Lincs.

TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE 865cc, T100 20B 110th Anniversary Model, silver/green, 569 miles, as new condition, centre stand, rear rack, locking fuel cap, King & Queen seat, £6850. Tel. 0116 2402726. Leics.

TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE 650cc, 1960, 150 miles, fully restored as production racer style, matching numbers, 2-tone blue, rev counter, Duplex frame, not yet run in, can be to standard, £11,000.

Tel. 0208 5739546. Middx.

TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE 750 1978, T140V, MoT, matching numbers, electronic ignition, good runner, £3850. Tel. 07826 873933 for more details.. Hants.

TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE 865 accessories, Western style saddle bags, cissy bar kit, sprocket and gearbox covers all, complete, vgc, £400. will separate Tel.John 07751 314562; 01626 369407.

Devon.

TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE SE 2011, blue/white, 1600 miles, one owner from new, always garaged, full s/h, on Sorn, as new condition, £4995. Tel. 01380 726250 .Wilts.

TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE T120R 1961, 650cc, project includes frame, 3 gallon petrol tank, hubs, forks, yokes, gearbox, head chain cases, crankcases, footrests, oil tank plus additional parts, £4650.

Tel. 0208 5739546. Middx.

TRIUMPH TIGER 800 ABS, 6 months' tax, 12 months' MoT, 2011, white with silver frame, 9k miles, new rear tyre, many Triumph extras, never used in wet salt, £4395. Tel. 01405 815705. S Yorks.

TRIUMPH TRIDENT 900cc, 1993, green, spares or repair, new Hagon rear shock, new Scottoiler and full s/h, £500. Tel. 07740 950074. Kent.

TRIUMPH TROPHY 1200cc, 1991, 30k miles, clean standard new tyres, serviced, tax/MoT, needs riding, or p/x for older bike, £1400 ono. Tel. 07983 336285.

Beds.

VICTORY V TWIN 2007, 9100 miles, Vance & Hine exhaust, Quick release Paladin back restw/luggage rack, Quick release windscreen, K&N lifetime air filter, saddle bags, Cruise control, new rear tyre, garage kept, beauty, tax 30 June 2014, MoT 25 March 2015, £3650.Tel. 07730 090940.

Cambs.

VINTAGE VETERAN Motorcycles & Scooters, 1905-23, five, all very rare, t&t, running well, original numbers & history, W&P, JAP, Scootamota,Autoglider and Grigg, reducing collection, £60,000. Tel. 01235 553574. Oxon.

WATSONIAN MONZA SIDECAR fully restored, met grey, includes all fittings, cover and extra chrome, would suit large cruiser, £2000. Tel. 01582 416032. Beds.

YAMAHA VIRAGO 535 XVS 1997, V-twin shaft driven cruiser, almost new Dunlop tyres, 10,900 miles, first reg, 12 mths' MoT March 2015, 5 months tax-Aug 2014, no mods, regular oil/filter changes, original sound condition, maroon/gold/grey, garaged, cherished, £2400. Tel. 01803 712939.

Devon.

YAMAHA Midnight Star 1300cc, 2007 (57), 3300 miles, vgc, MoT October 2014, tax August 2014, many extras, £5000. Tel. 07570 040493 after 6pm please. Manchester.

YAMAHA DIVERSION XJ600S, 1998, one previous owner, 13,300 miles excellent, MoT to Oct new tyres, battery & service 400 miles ago, heated grips, centre stand, datatag, service history, £89. Tel. 01480 454635. Cambs.

YAMAHA FAZER FZS600, 2002, silver, SS exhaust system, original silencer, Dunlop roadsmarts, heated grips, luggage rack and original grab rails, recent service, vgc, £1400. Tel. 07760 448805; 01422 361846. West Yorkshire.

YAMAHA FAZER 1000 2002, 22k miles, full MoT, new Nitron shock, immobiliser, Oval exhaust, Scottoiler, Goodridge hoses, crash protectors, bellypan, hugger, luggage & lots more, new oil/filter, good tyres & chain/sprockets, £2500.

Tel. 01933 278051. Northamptonshire.

YAMAHA FAZER 600 52 silver, excellent condition, heated grips, Fabbri double bubble screen, Renthal chain and sprockets, Braided brakelines, Hagon shock, crash bobbins, fsh, tax 2007, test 2011, £1595 ono. Tel. 07928 978636. South Yorkshire.

YAMAHA FJR1300 blue, 17,800 miles, full MoT, Datatag, heated grips, ABS, panniers, immobiliser, fairing mushrooms, dealer serviced, vgc, bike is utterly reliable and superb sports tourer.. Tel. 01945 780081. Cambs.

YAMAHA FZS FAZER 600cc,April 2003, blue, t&t, s/h, extras, 12k miles, nice bike, ready to ride away, £2300 ono. Tel. 01254 237704 for full details. Lancs.

YAMAHA XV500 1983, Canadian import, MoT till June, good condition, £675 ono. Tel. 01747 821673. Dorset.

YAMAHA FZ1 2008, fsh, 16,500 miles, immaculate condition, tax & MoT, nice extras including arrow exhaust, luggage etc, £3900.Tel. 07771 521249. Lincs.

YAMAHA FZS600 vgc, mileage 20,000, 1999, 12 months MoT, one month tax, full service history from April 2009 (receipts to prove), HPi clear, two keys, Haynes manual, all the docs, original toolkit, purchased the motorcycle April 2009, since then covered 7k+ dry miles £1250.Tel. Paul 07980 225020. Cambridgeshire.

YAMAHA FZ1 mint condition, 12 months MoT, Sorned at the moment, yellow & black,. Tel. 07869 281906. Cheshire.

YAMAHA TW125 2004/04, 11,670 miles, Sorn, MoT due end of March 2014, ideal first bike or commuter, lightweight, economical, pick up only, £700.Tel. 07843 481724. Wiltshire.

YAMAHA FZS FAZER 600 2003, 7k miles, silver, taxed and MoT, superb original condition, this is one of the last of the highly acclaimed FZS Fazers, this was replaced by the not so acclaimed FZ6. I have owned the bike for the last 7 years and I am reluctantly selling it due to purchasing a Triumph Rocket 3, £2500. Tel. 07894 215303. W Mids.

YAMAHA R1 998cc, 2000, t&t, 18,000 miles, recently serviced, very clean example, £3000. Tel. 07732 901428. Surrey.

YAMAHA R1 2002, injection model, silver & black, one owner, 17,700 miles, currently Sorned but will MoT, excellent condition with service history, £2995 ono.

Tel. 07968 691622. Cumbria.

YAMAHA R6 blue 2013, 63 plate, like new only done 282 miles, had first service, garaged/covered, not been out in rain, crash bungs, tail tidy, rear stand bobbins & tank protector fitted, £7250 ovno. Tel. 07825 418425. Kent.

YAMAHA RD80LC 1982, beautiful Candy blue, nut and bolt restoration, every part renewed, re-plated or repainted in all the correct finishes, MoT, tax, in full working order, £3150. Tel. 07968 487875. Leics.

YAMAHA TY 175 Twinshock trials, two original bikes, one fully restored never used, one regularly trialed but exc cond, £2350 the pair, £1250 each Tel. 01743 891889; 07887 917466. Surrey.

YAMAHA VIRAGO XV250S (L), 1995, 12 months MoT, vgc and low mileage (8950), customized handle bars plus original A bars, pannier bags (not fitted) collection only, £800 ono. Tel. 07855 488390. Oxfordshire.

YAMAHA VIRAGO XV535, good condition, 51,000, on clock, starts and runs, no knocks or rattles, Stainless steel exhaust, MoT until June 2014, Sorn, will have to collect, £1000 ovno. Tel. 07979 897752. Lancs.

YAMAHA VIRAGO 750cc, 1997, 38k, 12 months’ MoT, taxed, superb original condition, Summer use only, data tagged, some extras, good tyres, just had service, £2350. Tel. 01923 62659. Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

YAMAHA VIRAGO XV750 Metalic blue, very sought after custom V twin with shaft drive, manufactured 1984 but date of first reg 19th May 1995, only 24,923 miles, new full exhaust system, back rest & chrome luggage rack, chrome front foot rests, lamps, leather paniers & front bag, brand new OEM battery (Yuasa) fitted, comes with Haynes manual, tax until 30/04/14, MoT until 02/05/14, £1500. Tel. 07866 622911. Glamorgan.

Fo ra ll yo u rYa m a ha n eed s, b ikes, pa rts, servic e a n d c lo thin g fro m the b est!

W innerso fYa m a ha M a stero f C usto m erC a re A w a rd 2 010

w w w .f litw ickm o to rcycles.co .u k 0 1 5 25 71 21 97

YAMAHA VITY XE125cc, 2012, excellent condition, like new, good reliable bike, cheap on tax and insurance, selling due to passing car driving test, phone for more info, £1200 ono. Tel. 07908 600590. Yorkshire.

YAMAHA VITY 125 2012 model, lots of extras, fsh, tax till Feb 2015, immacculate and garaged, 6488 miles, £800 ono. Tel. 07729 795202. Staffordshire.

YAMAHA XJ 600S Diversion, 1999, 27k miles, tax/MoT Aug, 4into-1 exhaust, easy starter, good runner, good tyres, small dent in tank, swap p/x British 2-stroke, £895. Tel. 07834 788934. Lancs.

YAMAHA XS 400 1980, 73k, second owner, full maintenance record from day one, new MoT, matching numbers, electric/kickstart, elec ign, great cond, everything works, Haynes manual, £675. Tel. 01793 644724. Wilts.

YAMAHA YBR125 2009 (59 reg), MoT Oct 2014, tax end Sept 2014, 11,507 miles, new rear tyre, top box, Scottoiler, recent chain & sprocket, excellent learner or commuter bike, £1250 ono. Tel. 01482 671042. Hull.

YAMAHA X-MAX 400 Superscoot, comfy ride, super performance, upmarket model, x-screen, h/grips, 12v plug, back rest, 3k, Yamaha service done, Maxi scooter with bike looks, £4444, yes £4444 bargain. Tel. 07500 163078; 0778 9061218. Yorks.

More reader ads online at

www.motorcyclemonthly.co.uk

Don ’tS lip it - G rip it B ra k e Sho es & Clu tc h Pla tes

professionallyre-lined with top quality m aterials forveteran,road and com petition use.

O versize linings available.

Alloy brake shoe casting.

Allm akes and m odels catered forat com petitive prices.

UK collection and delivery.

1 R a w fo ld s Ind Es t, B ra d fo rd R o a d , Clec k hea to n, W es tYo rk s B D 19 5 LT Tel. 0 12 74 8 6 2 6 6 6 W eb s ite: w w w .s a ftek .c o .u k Em a il: s a les @ s a ftek .c o .u k

CLASSIFIEDS 41

42 CLASSIFIEDS ACCESSORIES

ACCOMMODATION/TOURING

DYNO

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

EVENTS

EVENTS

Guided Motorcycle Tours Take in the most breathtaking scenery Arizona has to offer on a Harley Davidson.

SOUTHERN TOUR - Tuscon - Tombstone - etc.

NORTHERN TOUR - Grand Canyon - Monument Valley - etc

www.adventuresinarizona.com Tel. 01243 786495 Mob. 07774 782139

The Lion

Llanbister, Llandrindod Wells, Powys, Mid Wales LD1 6TN. Tel/Fax: 01597 840244 Email: lionhotel_llanbister@btinternet.com www.lionhotel-llanbister.co.uk

Small, friendly, family run country pub set in beautiful unspoilt countryside of Mid Wales.

Bed and Breakfast available or self catering in log cabins half a mile from The Lion.

INDOOR STORAGE AVAILABLE

EXHAUSTS

BIKE CLEANING

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

EXHAUSTS

CLUBS

Deadline for the next issue is Friday May 2 T: 0 12 0 2 3 74 0 4 2

M : 0 70 17 5 10 0 0 8

Available from Friday May 16

CLASSIFIEDS 43 INSURANCE

Trade advertisers call Tom on 01507 529410

OFF ROAD

MOT AND SERVICING

Malcs Motorcycles Motorcycle Servicing, Repairs and MoTs Used clothing (jackets, helmets, etc.) in stock.

Call us on 01625 576728 CHESHIRE www.malcs-motorcycles.co.uk

PARTS AND SPARES

PARTS AND SPARES

44 CLASSIFIEDS PARTS AND SPARES

SEATING

W E H AV E M O V ED

MISCELLANEOUS

TOURING

TYRES

D M S D IS C OUN T M OTOR C YC LE S P AR ES Un it51, W rights Bu sin ess P ark, CarHill, Balb y, D on casterD N4 8D E

Fora ll you rG en u in e & Pa ttern ed Spa res

Tel. 01302 32 98 03/01302 365 42 2

TRACK DAYS

SECURITY

SERVICING

SPECIALIST KEY CUTTING

Motorcycle keys cut to code Motorcycle keys made to locks

Tel: 01522 532038 Email: info@lincolnsecurity.co.uk www.lincolnsecurity.co.uk

PAINTWORK

Springcourt Auto Centre Tel: 01706 631245 Specialists in motorcycles

• MoT STATION • SERVICING & REPAIRS • CARS & LIGHT COMMERCIALS • ALL MAKES AND MODELS WHITWORTH RD, ROCHDALE, LANCASHIRE OL12 0RA

TRAILERS

SHOT BLASTING & POWDER COATING

TRAVEL

SPARES AND REPAIRS

WANTED

PLASTIC REPAIRS

TOOLS TRAINING COURSES

N FL M OTOR CYCL E TR AIN IN G & TES TIN G • C BT TRA INING • FULL TEST/ DIREC T A C C ESS D riving Standards Agency Approved

POLISHING

Te l: 0 190 2 494422

Selling your bike is

FREE

for private readers

TRAILERS

+44 (0)1386 841506

www.motolug.com

COLLAPSIBLE MOTORCYCLE TRAILERS

Manufactured in the UK

45 WEB WATCH

!"# "()!"##$%&$' *+"%,$%' !"#$%&&'()*+,*-.

!"#$#

!!!"#$%&'(()*+",-"./

0100 230 4300 !"#$%#" &'()( *"+,-."/"#0 1-00"*%"2

46 RIDERS AND THE LAW Legal matters made simple

Q&A

The MCM legal column is compiled by managing partner Andrew ‘Chef’ Prendergast and his bike-riding barristers and solicitors at White Dalton Motorcycle Solicitors.

The firm deals with personal injury claims and its sister company, Motor Defence Solicitors, deals with all the motoring offences. White Dalton lawyers have a vast knowledge of bike law – and they have full bike licences too. They don’t act for insurance companies or the prosecution.

White Dalton is Britain’s premier specialist motorcycle law practice, and if its professionals don’t know the answer to your question there probably isn’t one.

Don’t rely on the advice from your insurance-appointed solicitor, get proper independent advice.

For road traffic offences call the Motor Defence solicitors on 0800 280 0912.

For non-offence cases call White Dalton motorcycle solicitors on 0800 783 6191

Need advice?

If you need advice on a biking-related legal question or query, email mail@whitedalton.co.uk The best Q&A will be published in MCM, in confidence, of course.

Specialist motoring solicitor Andrew Prendergast guides our readers through their legal trials and troubles...

Q

Have I got problems? I was riding my CBR600RR down a residential road when a car reversed straight out of a drive in front of me.

I had no chance of braking and ‘T-boned’ his rear passenger door. Luckily it was only a little car, and I flew like superman over the top instead of hitting it, but when I landed I broke my wrist and my ankle so I am out of action. Liability looks clear-cut to me.

However, I am worried because while the car was insured it turns out the driver was a young lad with a provisional driving licence and he was unaccompanied. With this in mind, will it mean he won’t have insurance to pay out for my claim, as he will have breached the policy for driving while unaccompanied? He is getting done for driving without insurance and driving otherwise in accordance with a licence, as well as driving without due care and attention.

A

The young lad has problems from what you have said because he appears guilty of all those offences. As for you, I can understand your concern. However, as the lad’s car was insured at the time of the accident the applicable Road Traffic Insurer will have to meet any claim against him as the driver. So in short, there will be an insurer to pay out for any claim you successfully make, even if the lad gets done for driving without insurance. However, because he was unaccompanied by a qualified driver he will be in breach of the policy and his insurer could come after him directly for any money they pay out.

Q

I had a new tyre fitted to my GSXR1000 by a small garage local to me. About a month later I took my bike to my main dealer for a service after I got back from Germany. While in Germany I had ridden around the Nürburgring at speeds of up to

“NICE BIKE MATE...”

2004 Ducati 750 Sport

180mph. The problem I have is my main dealer tells me the tyre isn’t the correct one for the bike, and isn’t rated to go up to those kinds of speeds.

The dealer reckons I could have been killed if the tyre had failed. I want to claim against the small garage for the fact I could have been killed and also for the cost of another tyre. Can I do this?

A

Thankfully you have not been hurt so therefore your only claim in my opinion is for the cost of a replacement tyre if you can prove the wrong one has been fitted. While you may well have a good claim, it is likely this would be allocated to what is known as the Small Claims Track. This is because the financial value of your claim is below £5000.

The Small Claims Track is designed so that people may bring their own claims without the use of a lawyer. If you do use a lawyer the disadvantage is it would be unlikely for you to obtain a costs order against the other side to cover the costs of the lawyer. The likelihood is that legal costs will equal a large part, or even exceed the amount you are claiming, so my advice would be to bring the claim yourself.

For more info, go to:

Name: Julie Smith From: Doncaster Occupation: Environmental health and safety manager Owned bike for: Five years Tell us about it: I’d always been into bikes and often went out as a pillion. I didn’t pass my test until I was 40 and can honestly say it’s definitely one of the best things I ever did. Riding my bike is a total mind clearance, and I’ve met some fantastic people through it. My first machine was a Monster, and I wanted to stay with Ducati as I love the brand and the V-twin.

The 750 has all the power I need and there are no surprises with it. My favourite thing about it is the noise – there’s no doubt that people can hear me coming! I like to ride out to Willingham Woods near Market Rasen, Squires and to the coast for fish and chips.As long as there’s a brew at the end of the journey I don’t mind where I go!

Power: 63bhp (47kW)@8250 rpm Torque: 44lb-ft (60Nm)@6000 rpm Engine: 748cc, air-cooled, four-stroke,V-twin

www.whitedalton.co.uk

Dry weight: 181kg Seat height: 815mm Current value: Dealer £2950; private £2400; part-ex £2460

47

48