Motor Cycle Monthly January 2017

GET UP TO SPEED Fast and

NAKED

Aprilia’s Tuono takes on its rivals

January 2017

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Suzuki’s plans Riding the USA:

REVEALED

How YOU can do it

Guy’s honest answers: ‘I am DONE with the

TT

’ ● New Hayabusa coming soon ● No modern retro yet (but it’s on the way) ● Supercharged bike for less than £10k!

Who says this? Only the president of Suzuki himself!

Yamaha goes electric:

It’s only been a matter of weeks since BMW and KTM unveiled their 2017 ranges to the world, but we’re already bringing you the NEXT wave of new bikes from the factories and BOTH are targeting the road enduro market for 2017/18!

More on page 3

▲

Here are its FIRST proddie bike plans

SPIED: BMW and KTM!

NEWS 3

Suzuki’s FUTURE plans revealed

by the big boss!

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Toshihiro Suzuki, president of the Japanese giant, has opened up about its future in a hugely important and revealing interview.

In an interview with a french journalist, Suzuki didn't so much let slip, as openly reveal some key elements about what we're going to see from the manufacturer in the near – and not so near – future.

One area of development that is currently under scrutiny is the lack of any modern-retro style motorcycle in the range. While all the other major Japanese manufacturers have at least pointed towards a modern-retro style bike in their range, Suzuki has yet to go down the route.

President Suzuki was keen to point out, however, that there are changes in the pipeline: “We realise that this is what some of our customers want and it will be coming from us. I can’t tell you when it’ll be or what type of bike we are working on though."

Buell’s back (again)

Suzuki was also frank and forthright about the company’s plans for supercharged machines.

Focusing on the Recursion prototype (pictured, top left) that was first shown three years ago – and last year's subsequent patent for the production version of the bike (also pictured) – in particular, he said this: “The project has not been abandoned and there has always been the plan to launch a supercharged motorcycle in our range. However, this is not for this coming year. One of the specifics we are looking at is exactly how much putting this sort of technology into production for the mass market will cost. For now, we have not defined anything specific about it."

The factory’s top man was pressed about the potential cost of a supercharged bike that made around 100bhp and would be running a medium-sized motor, and when it was suggested that such a motorcycle would cost around £9500 he replied with: “That is a view that is not completely fanciful."

He also went on to outline exactly why Suzuki is going down the supercharger or turbocharger route, and it's far more exciting than anyone first thought. Suzuki added: “We do not think that fuel consumption is a major concern for motorcyclists. Nor do they want to lower displacement. Our idea of using a turbo is more about the pleasure that we seek on a

motorcycle. A motorcycle with a turbo is a pleasure motorcycle that we develop, not a two-wheeled utility motorcycle."

Another bike that's come up for plenty of discussion is the Hayabusa.

The acclaimed hyperbike is long overdue a new model and has started to fall behind ultra-quick competition like the H2R Kawasaki.

But, fans of the big bike will be overjoyed at what Suzuki had to say on the matter: “The Hayabusa will have a descendant that will not go too far from the family. Our engineers are working on it right now. It will be along the familiar lines of the Hayabusa and it will have a lot of electronic assistance for riding fast."

SPIED: Mystery BMW GS snapped testing on the road

SPIED: KTM’s future 800 Enduro roadster caught out on test

So, what on earth do you think this thing is that’s been snapped testing on the road in Italy?

Because it looks pretty much finished (and is out doing the miles on the road) we’re thinking that it’s nearing the end of whatever development schedule it’s been on so far.

Regardless of the answer, this is a fresh, new bike and it’s been caught out and about. As for the details – and we’ve only a got a few so far – it is a twin, and according to insider information the bike is coming in both 800cc and 1000cc versions (so the 1000cc version will be a direct competitor in terms of road sales for Honda’s Africa Twin) and the styling is aimed much more at markets like the V-Strom than at the more seriously off-roady Adventure bike sector.

The tank is a 24-litre version (again, according to insiders). This could well be the first picture of the newly updated F800GS that we will see released midway through next year.

This it the first picture of the upcoming 800cc Enduro bike from KTM. What is clear from the snap of the protoype is that the new 800 is going to have a much more serious level of off-road ability than anything in the very recent run of KTMs. The bike gets what looks like 43mm WP forks and plenty of ground clearance (although the mudguard is low and close to the tyre which will have to be raised for any sort of real off-roading), braking is taken care of with two-piston radial Brembo calipers and the rear shock is mounted off-centre.

The bike also gets a smaller face with a bracket fitted to the top that looks as though it will carry a screen. The single headlight on the bike and the rear light small-cluster LEDs are clearly out of the factory’s parts bin.

It’s unlikely that the finished article will look like this – especially given how every new KTM’s lights recently unveiled at EICMA in Milan were much more sharply styled and featured lines of LED lights.

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Editor Tony Carter Editorial design Fran Lovely Publisher Steve Rose Picture desk Paul Fincham, Jonathan Schofield Production editor Jack Harrison Divisional advertising manager Martin Freeman 01507 529538 Advertising Lee Buxton 01507 529453 Marketing manager Charlotte Park Publishing director Dan Savage Commercial director Nigel Hole Associate director Malcolm Wheeler Advertising deadline for February issue Thursday, January 5, 2017

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It’s full beam ahead for China’s bad drivers Numpties caught driving around with their car lights on full beam in China are being pulled over and then made to sit in front of a cop car with its lights on full whack... for a full minute.

Along with a fine of around £30, the drivers have to sit directly in front of the car and stare at them for 60 seconds. Pictures of bad lads being forced to do this by the rozzers were put on the Shenzhen traffic cop’s official Weibo account.

The caption accompanying the post said: “Tonight we are carrying out punishments using high beam.”

Blind Aussie’s attempt

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When Erik Buell from Erik Buell Racing (EBR) announced a couple of months ago that his company would be launching a new Black Lightning, there was much wringing of hands and awaiting of something a bit ground-breaking from the innovative bike builder.

The reality of the situation (now we’ve seen what’s appeared, pictured above) has been less well received by EBR’s home USA market than he might have hoped for – and that’s because it’s effectively a revised, lowered 1190SX, rather than anything ‘new’.

The Black Lightning uses the company’s 185bhp, 101.6lbft of torque, 1190cc V-twin, with revised gearing for more low-down oomph, lower footrests, higher bars and an optional comfort seat.

Independently proven pick up: 67,717 copies

Ben Felten, who is totally blind, is on track to break the record for the fastest motorcycle ever ridden blindfolded.

Former GP racer Kevin Magee, above right, will act as Felten’s navigator at Speed Week held in May in Australia when he attempts the record of 164.87mph.

Magee will ride behind Felten, who will be on board a Hayabusa, using a radio to direct Felten: “I basically tell him to go left or right with increasing levels of urgency,” said Magee.

4 NEWS

REVEALED: This is the

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Drum Charger supercharger (kind of) that, apparently, gives you 25% more power

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Okay, so the bolt-on system won’t give you quite the samee power gains as a proper turbo, but it claims to give you a boost of up to 0.6 bar (8.7 psi) and some 15-25 percent more power, torque and efficiency.

Turbos and superchargers are very effective, but they’re also complex and therefore expensive systems (such as the set-up on the Kawasaki H2). They also tend to work best at high revs.

With this in mind, Italian company Alter Ego has come up with a simpler, cheaper and more practical design: the Drum Charger. It’s not unlike a turbo, in as much as it harvests leftover exhaust gas energy to pressurise the air intake. But the design is less complicated than a turbo, lacking the complex, fastmoving turbines and compressors.

Instead, the Drum Charger is a simple disc-shaped membrane. On one side of the it’s exposed to the

exhaust gasses as they pass through towards the muffler, via a closed channel that comes off the main pipe.

On the other side is the air intake.

When the cylinder fires, a pulse of hot exhaust gas is sent down the pipe, part of which exits out through the muffler, but part of which goes down the Drum Charger’s closed channel and pushes against the membrane.

As the membrane gets pushed away from the exhaust, it reduces the volume in the cold intake chamber, increasing the pressure before that air is sent to the airbox through a

series of reed valves. As soon as the exhaust pulse finishes, the membrane returns to its original position thanks to a leaf spring, bouncing the pressure wave back out into the exiting exhaust, but leaving the gas in there – so this channel never heats up beyond 50 degrees (Celsius). As it’s driven by the exhaust pulses, it’s totally synchronized to the cylinder’s combustion cycle – so, provided the drum is the optimal distance from the exhaust header (some 60-80cm, depending on the model) it will always develop its pressure charge at exactly the right time.

Alter Ego reckons that this set-up creates a boost of around 0.3 bar (4.35 psi) with a single Drum Charger, or 0.6 (8.7 psi) with a dual-membrane unit.

The downside is fairly obvious; the Drum Charger is a big chunk of plastic that needs to sit somewhere on your bike. That membrane can’t do much work unless it’s a decent size – around 220mm in diameter is enough for small capacity bikes and scooters where each cylinder is less than 250cc, while larger cylinders up to 400cc require a 270mm-diameter membrane to ensure that enough pressure is generated.

And this is all per cylinder. Each Drum Charger works exclusively on a single cylinder, making this technology extremely cumbersome once you move beyond a twin. So you’re not going to be seeing it pop up on an inline-four superbike any day

soon. In fact, an 800cc twin is about as large a motor as Alter Ego thinks the Drum Charger will be able to work for.

There’s no news on when we’ll be able to buy one of these kits, or how much it’ll cost, but as soon as we get that info we’ll let you know.

NEWS 5 Guy Martin’s honest answers The Lincolnshire lad speaks out: “I’m done with the TT, I’m doing the Burt Munro Challenge and I’m going for the motorbike record at the Nürburgring!”

The up and down story of Guy Martin at the TT is now over and he isn’t going back – that’s according to the man himself.

Speaking out in a two-part interview held for Facebook, Guy has been answering questions put to him by fans and in the final answer he gave away his thoughts on whether or not he will ever make a return to racing on the roads at the Isle of Man and what’s coming up in his immediate future.

“...to go faster at the TT I’d need to dedicate my whole life to it and I’m not willing to do that.”

When asked by fan Wilson Smith about doing the same race again (one assumes this was aimed towards the TT, although it was not explicitly said), Guy partly replied with the following: “I’m still getting big TT teams, the biggest TT teams, offering me right deals to race and it was tempting, but I’ve been there and I’ve done it. The only reason I thought about the offers for as long as I did was because I don’t want to regret not doing it.

“When I was lying on the sofa with a broken back I knew I’d had enough. It’s all the same shit going on from year to year.

I’ve done as well as I could as a hobby racer, to go faster I’d need to dedicate my whole life to it and I’m not willing to do that.”

Our sister website MoreBikes (morebikes.co.uk) has already brought you news of Guy racing in New Zealand in the Burt

Munro invitational hill climb challenge, and now Guy has confirmed MoreBikes’ story from back in August in which it told the world about his plans to break the outright lap record at the Nürburgring.

The site ran a couple of snap shots that showed Guy out on a Triumph Daytona 675R in what was presumably a first foray at how close he would be to taking on a charge at the record.

Here’s what Guy said to confirm both of those articles: “I have walked away and I’m racing on my own terms. My Martek is on its way to New Zealand and I’m racing it in a hill climb out there. I’m going to have a go at breaking the motorcycle lap record at the Nürburgring, then I might build a car to race at Pikes Peak and then do something else. I’ll do more flat tracking next year than I’ve done this year.”

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Honda launches its new A2 friendly Rebel

This is the new 2017 Honda Rebel.

It’s a 471cc parallel-twin that can kick out 44bhp at 8500rpm and 33lbft of torque at 6000rpm. Honda says the bike has strong low-down torque, is slim and has a low seat height which makes it easy to paddle about on.

Its tubular steel frame is all-new, and it comes with the fat-tyred ‘bobber’ look capped off with a healthy dose of black-out parts and styling. Wet, the bike weighs 190kg.

The bike gets a ‘one-button’ speedo which is a compact 100mm dial with an LCD display and blue backlight. The Rebel 500 comes in black, silver metallic or red.

The pillion pad and rear footpegs are easily removed and aftermarket parts like a rear luggage rack, screen and 12V socket are available. No price yet on this bike, we will let you know when it’s announced by Honda.

Bee swarm finds bike

It’s got to be one of the weirdest stories of 2016, but a Kenyan news agency is claiming that a local who wanted to find his stolen motorcycle enlisted the help of a local witch doctor. The mysterious medical man summoned a swarm of bees who found and settled on the bike. It was then picked up by the rightful owner after thieves abandoned it because of the bees.

Video: New Benelli

It’s the first time we’ve seen the 2017 Tornado 302R in action and you can, too. Log on to morebikes.co.uk and search ‘Benelli’ for the latest factory footage of the new model in road and track action.

6 NEWS

REVEALED: Yamaha’s first full electric bike plans

Yamaha’s long-standing ambition to produce an electric off-road bike looks as if it’s been realised in these designs which have appeared at various registry offices around the world showing a fully electric motocross-style machine.

There’s not much detail in terms of the bike; it could end up being something more along the lines of the PED2 concept (also pictured) that the firm showed at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show, rather than full-on crosser – but whatever the finished form, there’s no denying the way in which the motor and batteries will work together.

You can see from the design’s outlay that the bike’s weight (the PED2 concept weighed in at 100kg and it’s likely that this bike will be in the same kind of area) is going to be mostly made up of the big twin batteries and ‘engine’ part that is slung under the double battery compartment, sited where the petrol tank would sit on a conventional petrol-powered bike.

The factory designs show how the batteries lift in and out of a large plastic outer case, the top of which hinges up to allow the batteries to be loaded in. We can read in the description that is filed with the document that both batteries need to be fitted to the bike in order for the system to work.

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Each battery is positioned into the box on a pair of large locator pins; each set is at the back of the plastic box so fitting the batteries should be a simple case of dropping them into the compartment the right way round.

Externally, it looks like a pukka motocross bike in the drawings. The PED2 concept did have the usual road-required allowances like lights, mirrors and indicators, but without them on the drawing at this stage of the bike’s development it’s impossible to say if these will be there in the finished version.

CBR250RR top speed set at 104mph

The lads at Otomotifnet in India have been out in anger on the Honda CBR250RR and managed to clock some top speed runs.

After a lot of waiting and chat about what the new quarter-litre sportster can top out at, the figures are in.

Across several flat-out runs on track, the bike managed to get to an indicated 111.23mph (179kph). When the timing trap was checked the bike had managed to break the beams at a top-end of 104mph (167kph).

So the little sportster for 2017 will crack the ton, but not by much. Top whack from the CBR in stock trim is 104mph. And now we know.

The world’s most gorgeous G310R so far This exquisite street tracker – a special built from the BMW G310R roadster – has been produced by the detail-obsessed Wedge Motorcycles from Tokyo.

Although these images were punted out by BMW Motorrad Japan, there’s no suggestion that this is in any way something that points to a future for the brand – but what it does is demonstrate just what is

possible if you want to funk-up the firm’s G310R naked roadster.

This gorgeous hunk of mini-metal has been made by Wedge’s Takashi Nihira and is a lesson in how to strip back a motorcycle to the absolute basics. Nihira says that because the bike’s exhaust headers point backwards, the motor has to be closer to the front wheel than he would normally have it for this type of motorcycle.

The Japanese metal worker has opted for a few very nice touches over the original bike (pictured above, right). He’s retained the original’s frame but moved the shock to mount under the tiny petrol tank, then shifted that radiator to the side (that’s a funk score, right there).

He’s also kept the look-through of the bike very gappy (nice), the dash has been stripped right back for a 1980s digital watch feel (sweet) and the exhaust routes around the side of the bike to pop out at the side of the single seat hump.

The brake discs are more full than on the original bike, and the whole thing looks pretty cool all round.

’s new body Knox’s armour launched

Knox has unveiled its new Micro-Lock technology impact protection.

Micro-Lock body armour is the latest in a long line of innovations from British impact-protection specialists Knox.

It is the first CE-approved range of protectors that are super-soft, highly protective and stable across all climates. It works on the same principle as how non-Newtonian liquids work under sudden shock stress – the molecules that are fluid and loose normally will snap together and form a rigid layer instantly as soon as a percussive shock hits them.

It makes armour is soft and comfy to wear, but fall off and it instantly hardens and protects. Clever.

The THUG wins top spot at Motorcycle Live Indian Motorcycle dealerships across the UK were invited to build a customised Indian Scout or Scout Sixty in just 90 days in a partnership with the UK’s national motorcycle show, Motorcycle Live.

Ten dealers took up the opportunity to show off their creations to an audience of 113,172 visitors, with 1905 of these voting for their favourite Project Scout by visiting the Indian stand during the nineday-long event.

There were no rules or restrictions on the bike theme, cost or build style, but entrants had to use a minimum of three genuine Indian Scout accessories from the range of more than 200 items, plus at least one part from the following three leading aftermarket

suppliers – Custom Chrome Europe, MAG Europe or Harrison Billet.

Commenting on his winning build, dealer principal at Thor Motorcycles Colin Treleaven said: “We didn’t want to build a handbag, fashion statement bike, it had to be something that hadn’t been done before and it had to be a rideable bike, not a show pony.

“Most of the components were sourced by rooting through our stores and parts bins, aiming to keep the build as cost-effective as possible. With the exception of the lighting, exhaust and a

Print ’n’ ride

handful of official Indian accessories, anything that couldn’t be found in our shop was hand fabricated. One of the hardest tasks was creating a machined spline assembly that extended the front sprocket to convert the final drive to a chain. THUG goes as well as it looks and we’ll definitely be riding it on the road.”

Called The Dagger, the bike looks awesome and as the main bits are wrapped around a supercharged Kawasaki H2R motor (yep) it’s going to go like a scalded cat.

It’s been unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show by the company Divergent 3D. The chassis parts have been printed using a carbon fibre material that Divergent claims is a whopping 50% lighter(!) than traditional motorcycle materials like alloy.

7

8 WHAT’S ON: To get your event on these pages email jclements@mortons.co.uk

What’s On: the next four weeks Just because it’s Christmas, it doesn’t mean there’s nothing exciting going on in the motorcycle world. You can still get your two-wheel fix, and here are the details.

DECEMBER 2016

26 Ace Cafe London, Boxing Day ‘Cold Turkey’ meet. ace-cafe-london.com 27 John’s Day After Boxing Day Run, Tel: Chris 07790 210253. wellsclassicmotorcycleclub.co.uk 27 Moxters of Rock Rockers Reunion, wegottickets.co.uk/ thevictoriabikerpub 27 VMCC (Northampton) Christmas Cracker Run, Hunsbury Country Park, Northampton. Tel: Dave 01327 342570.

27 The Victoria Bikers Pub – Rockers Reunion, Coalville, Leics LE67 3FA. vicbikerspub.co.uk 31 Ace Cafe London, New Year’s Eve Party. ace-cafe-london.com 31 Resolution Resurrection, Rose & Crown, Southport Road, Ulnes, Walton, Leyland, Preston, Lancashire PR26 8LP. Tel: 07734 566267. Email: bikerjimmy@live.co.uk 31 New Year’s Eve Party, The Rockbar, Shobnall Sports & Social Club, Shobnall Road, Burton-on-Trent, Staffordshire DE14 2BB Tel: 07988 521400.

Email: unwantedmcc@aol.com unwantedmcc.co.uk 31 The Victoria Bikers Pub – Helmet of Doom, Coalville, Leics LE67 3FA. vicbikerspub.co.uk

JANUARY 2017 2 The Victoria Bikers Pub – The Brass Monkey Run, Coalville, Leics LE67 3FA. Tel: 01530 814718. vicbikerspub.co.uk 5 LE Velo Lancs & S Lakes, Spitfire Memorial, Fairhaven Lake, Lytham.

Tel: 01772 782516.

6-7 Ards Motorcycle Show and Autojumble Queens Hall, Newtownards, Co. Down, Northern Ireland.

Tel: Tom 02891 872763 Email: ftmotorcycles@gmail.com 7 Rufforth Autojumble, Rufforth Park, York. Tel: 01904 738620. rufforthautojumble.com 7-8 The Carole Nash Classic Bike Guide Winter Classic, Newark Showground, Newark, Notts NG24 2NY. ADVANCE DISCOUNT TICKETS ON SALE NOW...

Tel: 01507 529529. classicbikeshows.com 8 Huddersfield Autojumble Old Market Building, Brook Street, Huddersfield, HD1 1RG. Tel: Jeff 07795 505388 Email: jeffpff@hotmail.co.uk 15 LE Velo Lancs & S Lakes, Slaidburn main car park. Tel: 01772 782516.

15 Maldon British M/C Owners’ Club Bike Jumble, British Legion Hall, Newland Street, Witham, CM8 2AZ. Tel: 01245 355402.

15 Kidlington Autojumble, Exeter Halls, Kidlington, Oxford, OX5 1AB. Tel: 02082 526831; 07968 080990 Email: events@woodclass.com 15 Malvern Drive-In Classic Bike & Car Autojumble, Three Counties Showground, Wye Halls and Outside, Malvern, Worcs, WR13 6NW Tel: 01484 667776 Email: info@classicshows.org classicshows.org

New Joey Dunlop film in the works Irish actor Marty “I’ve realised that McCann – he who Joey Dunlop didn’t appeared in The say a lot, but he Survivalist and has let his actions do recently featured in the the talking,” said smash BBC Two series McCann, who The Fall – is currently previously played doing his homework U2’s frontman in the on Joey Dunlop as he film Killing Bono. prepares for a big“The more I found Marty McCann money, big-screen out about him, the movie on the life of the world’s more complex he becomes. most famous road racer.

You can’t get to the bottom of “The more I’m learning about Joey, he was his own man. He Joey, the more I’m amazed,” he was an enigma. The script tries told Belfast Telegraph’s Sunday to understand his obsession Life. “I am completely in awe.” with racing and the trance that Ballymoney biker Dunlop, these men go in on the bike. who died racing in Estonia in As someone who isn’t in the 2000, won the TT Formula One sport, you have to wonder what World title five consecutive makes you race at 210mph. times, as well as claiming 26 “Joey was widely quoted as wins at the Isle of Man TT and saying there’s two green blurs 13 North West 200 victories. and a grey blur and I try to He also received an OBE for his stay on the grey one — that’s charitable work. how fast he was going — so as an actor, it’s interesting for me to be able to try and get into that mindset.”

The film has been penned by Oscar-nominated Boogaloo and Graham writer Ronan Blaney, and will be made with Northern Ireland Screen.

After being in Maze, a film based on the 1983 jail escape, McCann hopes the Dunlop movie shows another side to Northern Irish history.

“I think it could be a big success, especially in Ireland, because so many people loved Joey Dunlop even if they weren’t big bike fans.”

Joey Dunlop

New TCX boots

New for 2017, the Fuel Gore-Tex model has joined the popular TCX custom line. It has a Gore-Tex Performance Comfort Footwear membrane, and the upper is made from full grain leather and it fastens using an internal zip and two adjustable external buckles. There are toe and heel reinforcements and gear change protection. Available in sizes 36-48, the Fuel Gore-Tex has an RRP of £219.99.

A ‘Ballistic Trident’

This is the so-called Ballistic Trident from Taiwanese firm Rough Crafts.

It’s a dressed-up MV Agusta Brutale 800RR that gets an HP Corse exhaust and that swooping carbon fibre frontend bodywork.

It’s tidy, whacky and has a certain something about it – but we still wouldn’t want to get caught in a strong side wind while riding along the A1.

NEWS 9

AX GETS READY TO RUMBLE

The Arenacross Tour returns to a number of the nation’s top arenas in 2017. It’s a fast-paced motocross race series combined with sky-high freestyle, where anything goes.

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Bezzi’s BSA 355

The details

From the very off, the three-hour evening programme is drenched in razzmatazz. The atmospheric show opening – accompanied by sound effects, strobe lighting and pyrotechnics – sets the scene and commentator DJ BBQ whips the cheering fans into a fervour, ready for the evening ahead.

For those seeking a massive dose of adrenaline, it’s the racing that’ll give the fix. The tour delivers plenty of high-octane excitement with a bevy of accomplished racing stars from around the globe taking to the start gate, each with a single-minded determination to be the first into the corner and own the all-important tightly packed racing line.

The stakes are high with a series prize fund in the region of £200,000, tens of thousands of hollering fans to entertain, and 10 hard-charging, tough-as-nails competitors all on the one line. The man-made tracks are short and sharp, tight and twisting, with hard-banked corners,

jumps, bumps and ruts thrown in for good measure. Tackling them is definitely not for the faint-hearted, which is pretty fortunate really as the Arenacross guys are serious racers, and the tour a serious and widely recognised racing championship.

Breaking up the racing, the radical and extreme freestyle segments allow the giants of the FMX world to showcase their ballistic breathtaking skills, pushing both man and machine through a set of seemingly impossible 40-feet-high tricks.

The action kicks off on January 7 at the Manchester Arena. It then rocks up to Glasgow, Birmingham, Belfast and Sheffield, with the grand finale blasting into the nation’s capital city at The SSE Arena in Wembley, London on February 18.

Visit arenacrossuk.com for further information.

What’s it all about?

The show; freestyle

Eight world-class, show-boating, FMX athletes roar into the auditorium ready to delight the crowd. It starts to get pretty competitive when they get into the groove and execute perfect backflips, side whips, with a Tsunami, Cliffhanger, Shaolin, Captain Morgan, Teepee and the like. You’ve really got to be there to understand...

The show; racing

Kids from the age of seven through to adult Pro racers take to the same tightly packed racing circuit – at different times. The youngsters have two sets of racing each and the Pros have to

score points in heats to determine who will be graded through. The top eight automatically make it to the Main Event. The rest of them have to do battle in a series of dreaded headto-heads where two riders go against each other until just two are left standing. It’s brutal and ugly, but addictive.

The Main Event

This is the big money event where the best indoor motocross racers from across Europe and beyond compete for a share of the huge prize fund. It’s 14 laps of pure adrenaline-charged action. They take no prisoners. It’s fierce, fast and frantic, and there can only be one winner.

Kawasaki’s insider plans for a self-adjusting seat registered for the next wave of fast bikes These designs from inside Kawasaki’s offices shows the tech fitted to an H2 hyperbike, but the description of the idea that accompanies the drawings says that this idea can easily be applied to more motorcycles in the range.

In short, the factory invention is that at a pre-determined speed (or certain rate of acceleration) the rear part of the rider’s seat – the bum stop and the two side parts of the seat which sit under a rider’s thighs – move out from the bodywork to effectively wedge the rider against the back of the petrol tank.

The bum stop and side pods are mounted onto a back plate that is moved by two arms, powered by three small electric motors mounted into the bike’s subframe.

There’s no mention of which motorcycle we will see this on first, but given that we’ve already seen a big improvement to the front ‘wings’ on the H2 ahead of a rumoured power hike for 2017 on the big bike, and that this design is being registered on an H2, then it makes sense for Kawasaki to turn out the auto-moving seat tech on that bike first.

This is a ‘concept’ sketch by motorcycle designer Oberdan Bezzi.

Following the news earlier this year that BSA was to be acquired by Indian auto giant Mahindra, Bezzi got his thinking cap on and he’s come up with the design pictured above.

It’s loosely based on the old BSA Victor which was a 441cc single developed from the scramblers of the time and made 30bhp.

It was on sale from 1968 to 1970.

1

Tamiya launches Kawasaki H2R model kit Tamiya has made this; its new Kawasaki H2R model kit.

Of course, that’s not the only terrifically detailed example from the model giants, in fact it’s just the latest in a range of bikes that come in all shapes and sizes with the 1:12 series which includes Honda’s CB750F, Ducati’s 888 racer (the Doug Polen version) a Kawasaki ZX-12R, Honda RC166 racer, XV1000 Virago, 500cc GP race bikes, Suzuki’s Katana and Yamaha’s R1, alongside the mighty Kawasaki H2R. Prices go from £15-£43 depending on where you get ’em, but it’s a great way of spending a few nights away from the Christmas repeats on telly. ● For more go to: hobbyco.net

Not so much a Thunder Road...

2

3

4 1: The main image shows the side pods (24), 2: Side pods, 3: How the right side pod moves forward (the left one is missing), 4: The arms that carry the pod.

So you’re riding along with a couple of friends and you spot a biker broken down by the side of the road.

You pull over to offer a hand to find out that the biker in question is none other than Bruce Springsteen.

Broken down on a Harley-Davidson by the side of a New Jersey road – that could probably be a lyric from one of The Boss’ songs, but it really happened for a group of bikers.

Riders from the Freehold American Legion were travelling after a Veterans Day event on Friday, November 11, when one of them – Dan Barkalow (above, left, with Springsteen right) – spotted a stranded motorcyclist near Allaire State Park in Wall Township.

“Bikers gotta stick together,” he said. “I stopped to see if he needed help and it was Bruce.”

Barkalow says the group tried to help get the singer’s bike running, but when they couldn’t Springsteen, 67, hopped on the back of Ryan Bailey’s bike and the group headed to a local bar.

Barkalow said: “We sat there and shot the breeze for 45 minutes until his ride showed up. Nice guy, real down to earth. Just talked about motorcycles and his old Freehold days.

“It was nice to help out. One Freehold person helping out another.”

Honda’s factory supermoto

This is a factory-kitted CRF450 supermoto that is unfortunately (for us) only available in France, but the good news is it will go like stink.

Kitted out with super-slick-ready spoked wheels, there are three versions of the bike that are now able to be ordered from French dealer Euroboost; the R version is full-on crazy, the RX and RXC versions are lesser spec but get a larger tank making them more enduro-ish. Just.

Prices range from £10,999 to £11,299.

To check out more info or order then head over to euroboost.fr

10 GROUP TEST

The

naked truuth Continental manufacturers have made the very best naked bikes for years, and with the addition of Ducati’s new Monster 1200 R this is the best European crop yet...

Words: Benjamin J Kubas-Cronin While it took a few years for the Europeans to truly trump the Japanese when it comes to pure sports bikes, in the naked class our continental cousins have led the way for some time. Japanese output in this arena was always a compromise too far for our liking. Only very recently have they taken the ‘sports’ side of naked life seriously, and even then some can’t help but rein themselves in.

But the Europeans? Nah. Their product has always had a sporting slant included in the deal. And the leader of the pack has been Aprilia, doing what we really want when it comes to a sporty tyy naked – simply ripping the fairings off a pukka sports bike. This means that when it comes to what we favour, it’s always taken something extra special to knock the Tuono (of whatever vintage) off the pedestal. KTM managed it with its first Super Duke, but since the arrival of the V4 Tuono rivals have been close, ish, but never once enjoyed the pleasure of lighting the victory cigar.

Yamaha’s barmy MT-10 has influenced matters among its countrymen and against Triumph’s updated Speed Triple R, but when it comes to the continent the Tuono 1100 – and others gathered here – have a new-andimproved Ducati Monster 1200 R to get past before going up against Japan’s latest and greatest.

The Ducati comes packed to the gills with exceptional kit and a beefed-up version of the Monster’s engine. So how will it fare against the Tuono, KTM’s rampant 1290 Super Duke R and BMW’s ballistic S 1000 R?

GROUP TEST 11 ‘Now I’ll tell you something about blowing into your thumb by the side of the road...’

What you need to know:

● £13,999 ● Bosch ABS ● 189kg (dry) ● 125Nm ● 150bhp

More roomy than you might think, the 1290 doesn’t have to be too extreme and you really can enjoy sweeping country roads in style.

The KTM has a very light touch in the corners.

The KTM 1290 Super Duke R I find funny how time, even a relatively short span of the stuff, can be unkind to a bike. The 1290 Super Duke R is a bike that has suffered during its three years of existence.

It’s also a bike that both wows and winds me up in equal measure; a real Jekyll-and-Hyde character and, thus, one which needs two stabs at testing.

More of that in a mo.

For now, though, one thing that really stands out about the KTM is that no matter how ‘nice’ it is to ride – and it really rather is – it can still come across as a bit clunky. The gearbox – for starters – is one such clunkster, needing a firm stamp or lift to engage another cog. Some may say it’s a man’s gearbox, other’s may claim it’s a tractor’s, but whichever direction the 1290 is taken in for the future it’s something that could do with a big dollop of sophistication.

Alongside that, there’s an almost old-school way about the Duke in its control actions. When it was launched a few years back, while it wasn’t quite what we expected it to be, it was really rather exciting. And now, so long as you’re rolling on and off the throttle in a single gear, it remains as such.

Then you hit the brakes. This Special Edition has petal discs added, and while overall power seems the same they produce a weird and mildly off-putting pulse at the lever that you’d initially swear was like the ABS kicking in. It isn’t, it’s just the pads on the discs, but in those instances where you do get the ABS to intrude it exacerbates that feeling. This means, occasionally, coming to a stop can feel a tad lurchy. That probably reads like a bigger deal than it actually is, but it’s a quirk worth mentioning.

As is comfort, which is certainly one of the bike’s strong points. You sit up straighter than on any other bike on test, which only becomes a pain on long motorway stints. While there’s not a huge amount of weight going though the bars, the seating position is one of both security and control.

The softly set suspension means that when you do want to boss it, which it laps up, just enough weight is pressed

onto the front tyre via the excellent WP fork to pull off some astounding cornering action. The only time it doesn’t help is on fast sweepers when it isn’t loaded up. The lack of weight through the bars means you’re relying on said superb suspension and the tyres to get you through, which they tend to do, but it’s not as comfortably managed or as settled as on the others. Yes, you could firm things up but then you’d diminish the exemplary bump-management skills which sees this so effective on lumpier stretches of Tarmac, and the plush overall ride. All things considered though, it does still handle remarkably well for such a lanky lass, and its uncanny wetweather road holding skill genuinely borders on the phenomenal.

But now we get to the crux of the 1290’s problem, which is mostly down to the electronics. It’s this system that gives it a near bipolar nature. You’ve got this wonderfully grunty engine that gets seriously curbed by the traction control. In fact, it’s actually better to have the engine in a lower power mode with the traction on. In ‘Sport’, the traction control can curb things so much as to become truly irritating, as it struggles to contain the pent-up fury of the V-twin’s delivery. Switch to ‘Road’ and the system has slightly less to contend with, equalling a far smoother ride with less intrusion. This puts the stops on any fooling around though; it makes it lovely to ride in all conditions, but it’s still not the bike I want.

No, the bike I’d want magically appears when you turn the traction control off.

Deactivating this is akin to Jekyll gulping down his potion because moments later Mr Hyde is out and causing a serious mayhem. It’s almost unbelievable how much of a different bike it becomes – night and day, black and white, insert whatever polar opposites analogy you wish to throw at it, and it’ll stick, like superglue.

This is the machine we all saw in the promotional footage. Now the engine is an absolute monster, it’ll rear up with just a whiff of the throttle

in first and second through hard acceleration, often third too, and off the clutch in fourth with a bit of a helping yank on the bars. But it’s the delicious violence in the lower gears that sets your heart racing.

A minute ago you were essentially riding a big super-naked scooter; now you’re utilising all your riding skills to keep the blasted thing in check and constantly checking your mirrors for the authorities.

Every corner entry and exit becomes a compulsive and dynamic experience – fly into a bend, hammer the brakes and load up the front, pitch it in, then fire it out with the front hopping off the surface and the bars gently

THE ENGINE

waggling from side to side. It’s epic fun! And despite the stupid amount of low-down power available, you just don’t need the traction control. The mechanical grip from the chassis and tyres are more than enough to handle the output. Only on, say, a track, on the very edge of the tyre and limit of adhesion would I want a smidge of backup against the ridiculous torque on tap.

Born from the hearty RC8’s motor, the 1290’s engine has been modified to be far more potent. Bore goes up from 105mm to 108mm, and stroke increases from 69mm to 71mm. Pistons use an F1 design, and though larger, are 47g lighter than the RC8’s.

Cylinder heads are fitted with dual-ignition, utilising separate maps for both. The four valves per head activate via two overhead camshafts, with DLC coated finger-followers. Service intervals are near 10,000 miles and the lump weighs 6kg. The throttle is RBW.

But that’s the problem, there is no ‘smidge’ as it’s not adjustable in any sense. On most of the others you can have your cake and eat it, but with the KTM there’s no middle ground.

You have to choose between taming pure fury, or potentially being utterly infuriated. These days, that’s a choice you shouldn’t have to make…

48

The diameter of the excellent WP front forks that are key to the R’s handling

45 The sort of mpg

figure you can get if you’re not tearing around on the brute

THE CHASSIS

The frame is typical KTM, and still the right colour. It’s a trellis chrome-molybdenum construction weighing less than 10kg. Every manufacturer wishes they had gurus like WP in their pockets, a big reason why KTMs all handle very well. Giant 48mm WP forks grace the front, and are fully adjustable though no preload is available. A WP rear shock sits under the seat, and is excellent. Brakes are Brembo M50 top-notch calipers biting petal discs, allied to ˇ can.

Bosch ABS. The single-sided swinger looks ace with the Akrapovic

12 GROUP TEST What you need to know:

● £15,550 ● Flash colour dash ● 180kg (dry) ● 136bhp

The Ducati Monster 1200 R Hmm, I thought, this Monster R doesn’t quite feel right. Of course, the last time I’d ridden one had been on the launch at Ascari’s vaunted track, and while bemused after riding my long-termer for the first time, I wasn’t entirely surprised. Quite often with track launches, bikes are set up for whatever circuit you’re at so they feel at their best – fair enough. So this outof of-the-box the box machine obviously comes with w the standard set-up, and while

it’s not quite as the R was in Spain, it’s still a special ride.

Using quality kit costs both the manufacturer and the end consumer, but by Jove it doesn’t half make a difference. So, while our termer bike didn’t feel quite as sharp as the launch machines, the ride it gives on Her Maj’s finest stretches of Tarmac is superlative-inducing nonetheless.

Much like the Tuono, both ends are able to feel firm yet return a decent

level of bump-mapping and still provide enough effective damping to keep things in line.

If there’s an issue with the Monster’s handling, it comes mainly from one of two things. First up is ground clearance, and on the launch we had both the exhaust-valve cover go down on one side, and the gearlever on the other. And that’s with the bike’s back-end raised a touch via the fettled suspension. You could

The R represents another marked step up in power, to the tune of 10bhp more than the S, itself 10bhp more powerful than the stock bike. The ‘extra’ was achieved mainly through three modifications.

Firstly compression was upped to 13:1, and then the throttle bodies were enlarged to 56mm. Next was the exhaust, adding a whopping 8mm to a maximum diameter of 58mm. The entire system is new, in fact. Electronics have been upgraded software-wise, but remain with an eight-level traction-control choice. The throttle is RBW.

That’s how big (in mm) the front brake discs are on the Monster

THE ENGINE

330

Textiles? Check.

Flip-up lid? Check.

Spoddy expression?

Check. Let’s roll...

say I’m being picky here; nobody rides like this that often, and there will probably be even fewer instances of R owners taking theirs around a track. Both assumptions are more or less correct, but when something is otherwise as good as the Monster is (and everything else in this group test, to be fair), you have to focus on even the smallest foible to figure out a finishing order.

The second problem is the riding position. Yes, it’s true that on the R your right knee no longer needs a constant hotline to a physiotherapist. And, yes, I did actually say in my launch report that it feels more like a normal bike’s riding position for the first time. But once you start to jump on and off its rivals, you quickly realise that it’s still a little quirky. It’s the way you’re canted forwards, which is fine in itself, but still at a slightly stranger body angle when your hands meet the bars. I did the last 60 miles of a 1000-mile trip on the Monster and was in agony. I’d have been fine had I been riding it the entire time, but I really struggled to get comfy. I must also add that pilots of differing heights may not experience this issue.

What all riders can experience equally, however, is the thumping

motor, and it’s a peach. While a bit quiet as stock, with these cans on the thing is loud enough to raise Neolithic corpses from their slumbers – 116 decibels on Castle Combe’s noise-o-meter! What I really like is that it’s almost like a Ducati engine of old – seriously grunty, arm-wrenchingly thumpy and out to cause mischief. It does tail off in fourth gear and above (while the others roar onwards), but by that point you’re already well into prison territory.

The electronics are also very useful; the traction control as good as we’ve come to expect, the riding modes distinctive and the ABS is yet to intrude in any way annoyingly. The lack of a quickshifter is a big miss though, and the fact none of the other bikes which share a derivative of this engine have one either is a curious issue.

Does it really matter? Not necessarily. The gearbox is fluid enough, but a lot will depend on the person considering a purchase. Yes, dynamically it holds it back a fraction, but it’s still a miss compared with the top two bikes on test, starting with the German one.

24

That’s how many months Ducati’s unlimited mileage warranty is

THE CHASSIS

The new Öhlins front fork is taller than before, and of a higher specification (read different internals) than the S. The same is true for the rear shock as well, both front and back are multi-adjustable. There’s also an adjustable Öhlins steering-damper fitted. The subframe is new, rider and pillion pegs now separated and the chassis raised to increase ground clearance. There’s a three-level Bosch ABS system active on the Brembo M50 calipers.

Wheels are light, forged aluminium Marchesini items, tyres are Pirelli S corsas.

Continued on page 14

14 GROUP TEST What you need to know:

● £11,390 ● Semi-active suspension ● Heated grips! ● 207kg (kerb) ● 148bhp

The BMW S 1000 R Sport

It was a relief that our Bavarian chums decided to include this bike, the S 1000 R Sport, in its line-up as it comes with most of the important upgrades already fitted. All but one, that is, which I’ll come to.

It’s a big old girl, the singular R Thou’, there always feels like there’s a great deal of bike for the money underneath you, even before you start listing off all the special USPs it has.

The showpiece is undoubtedly that engine; an angry, ebullient and barking mad derivation from BMW’s superbike. Surprisingly, it’s not the most powerful in this test, but it isn’t far off and the way it delivers all of that boom when the throttle is pinned can take your breath away.

When you’re on a fast road trying to turn it on, clicking up through the gears, you get the sense that you’re mostly hanging on for the ride. It just pulls and pulls and pulls at your arm sockets, usually with the front wheel pawing the air in the lower gears, the violence accompanied by a guttural roar from beneath your chest after each quickshift.

This bike has the electronic SACHS suspended chassis, of the semi-active variety, and it really is a window into the future. It’s been around a few years now, and while it doesn’t quite measure up to the similar (and newer) units on the superbike version, it’s utterly peachy for nearly every pace and riding situation. It alters its settings depending on which riding mode you’re in (Rain, Road and Dynamic), and then responds accordingly. The truth is that it genuinely is like a magic carpet ride for the majority of your time on it.

GROUP TEST 15 THE ENGINES

Planted, the BMW mostly is, but not always...

Motorway slogs are plush, town work terrific and on twisty roads at a healthy lick you need never think about picking up a screwdriver or spanner again.

Can you feel a ‘but’ approaching?

Well there is, and it’s down to the rear shock and how it works. While for cornering shots it behaved impeccably, there were two instances where I felt a little uncomfortable. One road in Ireland was tight, twisty and had a lot of rapid undulations. The front end of the BMW was epic, faultless, in fact. The issue arose when coming off the brakes into any of the dozens of turns on this stretch. The bike would turn, but as soon as you let the brake off the rear would drop a little bit as the front rose. At least that’s how it felt, in reality the ECU (via the damping) was keeping it as flat as possible. I

The motor of the (2013) RR has been tamed to 148bhp. The cylinder head ducts have been redesigned and the valve lift adjusted to pump up the midrange. The rev limiter is dropped to 12,500rpm. Aiding the retune is the BMW-X engine management system, which allows the R to utilise a complete ride-by-wire throttle, in turn allowing rider aids to function. It also features a cylinder selective anti-knock control, too. The bike comes with basic traction control as standard but the Sport package adds a more sophisticated system.

can see what it’s trying to do, but the upshot was that for a microsecond you realise the bike stops turning to the same effect it was when you were using the anchors loading the front.

It’s not a problem, per se, it just goes against how you would expect most traditional set-ups would behave.

The second instance was on a late-night motorway run, at a decent speed, while carving sweeping bends at a constant throttle. The same problem reared its head, where the rear felt like it didn’t compress or support you properly as you’d expect it to at lean. Nothing untoward occurs even if it seems as though stability is slightly compromised, it just doesn’t feel as comfortable as you’d like it to.

Once again this is nit-picking in extremis, because the chassis is otherwise faultless, it can’t be anything else. If there’s an overall

12,000

Where the redline sits on the un-faired German superbike

136

How much bhp you get when the BMW is flicked into Rain mode

complaint, it’s that it always feels like a proper unit. It does everything you want but never feels dart-like lithe, flickable or light on its toes.

And while I’m having a moan, the brakes could be better. They’re good enough and have effective power, but aren’t as intuitive or as nice to use as others here. The ABS is great though, causing no issues. The traction control is likewise as impressive, especially in Dynamic mode, and neither system intrudes with the larking about.

One thing missing though was the Dynamic Pro setting, which needs to be activated via a code, but wasn’t on this bike. I had that setting on my long-term machine a couple of years ago and it allows precise fiddling with the traction control and other aids, which is the only other thing I’d have liked to have played with. Yet despite these minor gripes, it’s the engine that delights and also what will always be your overriding memory when it comes to the BMW.

THE CHASSIS

The chassis is based on the RR’s, but the rake angle is increased by 0.8 degrees, while the trail is 5mm longer than its superbike sibling. Wheelbase is upped by 22mm. Kerb weight is 207kg. 46mm SACHS forks grace the front while a SACHS monoshock sits at the rear.

Brembo does the braking, and the DDS system comes as standard on the Sport.

16 GROUP TEST

What you need to know:

● £15,999 ● Best. Noise. Ever! ● Best. Engine. Ever! ● Best. Electronics. Ever! ● Best. Handling. Ever! ● 184kg ● 155bhp

The Aprilia Tuono 1100 We did a lot of miles for this group test, on all sorts of roads in England, Ireland and Wales. I purposefully stayed away from the Aprilia for an appreciable amount of time because I’m already so well acquainted with it – and because I wanted to spend more time sampling the opposition.

And, to be fair, before I swung a leg over it I had already a rough finishing order in mind, but I was also thinking it was going to be tough for the Aprilia to overcome the BMW. This wasn’t a test including any track work, and the BMW is such a brilliant road machine I genuinely thought it may pip the Tuono. Boy, was I wrong…

Within two miles I was utterly enraptured with the Aprilia, captivated, a slave to its lures and skills. Basically, I was in love. It’s not the first time I’ve struggled to put

THE ENGINE

how this bike can make you feel into words, because it’s so overbearingly impressive in all aspects. No, it doesn’t have heated grips – who cares? No, it doesn’t have a cruisecontrol option – pfft, whatever! No, it doesn’t have electronic suspension – good, because there’s not a naked bike in existence that can touch the Aprilia’s chassis. I could go on like this for a long, long time...

Before we even get to the stupidly good engine, let’s look at the chassis.

The 1100 is the first time Aprilia has taken the fact it’s a naked bike into account, but crucially it’s done it without curbing any of its skillset.

The chassis is essentially still that of the RSV4, the best in the sports bike business. Yet the swingarm is four millimetres longer than the 1000cc version, which helps stability and

A cylinder bore of 81mm was used to get the bigger capacity to 1077cc. Power is increased by 20bhp, while torque is also higher. The engine cases are now fashioned using a new shell-fusion technique, are reinforced and lighter. Internal ventilation is also improved, reducing power loss. New crank rod pins are smaller, but heavier, while the Pankl rods save 400g. The gearbox is removable, and cam-timing is taken care of via a chain and gear arrangement. A new ECU controls the RBW Marelli fuelling and the APRC.

control (especially when it ends up on one wheel). The headstock angle is ever so slightly relaxed by 0.4 of a degree and the trail gets an added five millimetres. While even small changes in geometry can have a huge effect, with the Tuono any lessening of its sporting stature is offset by the fact there’s actually some weight placed on the bars via the riding position. It’s this fact that makes the big difference, that allows precise control and also makes it so good to ride, whether that be fast or slow.

The feedback the chassis gives through its Öhlins suspension is also incredible – it’s the biking equivalent of Braille. You know exactly what’s going on. The absurd level of connectivity the chassis transmits between road and rider is simply second to none.

18.5

In litres, that’s the size of the petrol tank with a 4L reserve if you need it

160

140

120

100

80

60

40

20

2

4

6

8

And on the same bumpy stretch where the BMW let itself down, the Aprilia shone. It may not be electronically suspended but it’s a set-up that works through quality components and, most importantly, it never surprises you. It just does its job brilliantly, reacting just how you’d expect it to. When the hammer goes down, no bike here can match the Tuono’s handling. On track this advantage would be even more tangible.

What would amazing handling be without an incredible powerplant though? The addition of a bit more capacity was an inspired move by Aprilia. The boffins kept all that barking mad top-end, but bridged the gap with useful power from the second you release the clutch. This bike is so easy to ride slowly, the throttle response is comfortably the best of the four – as is the crescendo of the blistering power it possesses.

14

How they got that howl of exhaust, engine and airbox to pass any legislation is a triumph I’d say, because nothing sounds as good as one of these motors, whether that’s ticking over or being mercilessly thrashed. It’s beyond incredible.

It displays what should be overwhelming power for naked, but it only verges on you being overwhelmed because of the inherent control at your fingertips – it’s literally the perfect blend of everything.

And then we get to the electronics, which are certainly top of the pile, and by some margin. On its lowest setting, the traction control works away in the background subtly helping you, never hindering drive nor progress. It’s the best sporting naked money can buy, from front to back, for all kinds of riding scenarios. And that’s why, once more, the Tuono reigns supreme.

That’s how (in mm) high the seat is

THE CHASSIS

12

KTM is orange, Ducati is red, BMW is blue, Aprilia is green. Solid lines are power, dotted is torque. Graph comes from JHS Racing’s dyno.

825

For improved stability the headstock angle has been changed from 25.1 to 24.7 degrees, while the ‘fork advancement’ is now 35mm from a previous 30mm. The swingarm is 4mm longer to control wheelies better and increase grip. The RR comes with fully adjustable SACHS suspension, the Factory with Öhlins, both featuring a new standard set-up. Brembo M432 calipers stop the show, with Bosch 9MP Race ABS fitted as standard. The RR comes with a 190 section rear tyre, the Factory a 200 section. The V4-MP app is included.

10

FREE FOUR-PAGE PULL-OUT SHOW GUIDE 19

2017

GET YOUR TICKETS! ➨ classicbikeshows.com

☎ 01507 529529 ADULT ONE DAY:

Advance £8 | On the gate £10

Where: Newark Showground When: January 7-8, gates open from 9am What: Kick-start your New Year by celebrating classic bikes of all makes, models and eras

UNDER 12:

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FREE parking at the venue Closing date for advance ticket sales is 11.59pm on Monday, January 2, 2017.

FREE FOUR-PAGE PULL-OUT

20 FREE FOUR-PAGE PULL-OUT SHOW GUIDE

Birchall brothers to headline this year’s Winter Classic Former world sidecar champions and TT legends the Birchall brothers will kick-start the new motorcycling season at this sixth Carole Nash Classic Bike Guide Winter Classic.

The season-opener will welcome Ben and Tom to Newark Showground for the weekend of January 7-8, with the pair joining compere Steve Plater on stage for interviews covering their past achievements (world champs, four-time TT race winners, current sidecar TT lap record holders) as well as talking about what their futures hold. They will also be available for signing autographs and presenting awards.

Away from the main stage the event offers enthusiasts the chance to explore the hundreds of classic bikes on display and, as the show is packed with traders and

Show Officials Exhibition manager:

Nick Mowbray Exhibition admin manager: Glynis Roberts Exhibition sales executives: Sophie Brown, 01507 529436 Andrew Catton, 01507 529594 Exhibition administrators: Jayne Stevens Jacob Beeson Kyle Curtis Rob Bee Natasha Haynes Matthew Corrigan Sponsor: Carole Nash Consultants Ltd, Classic Bike Guide, Classic Scooterist, Scootering Commentator: Steve Plater Judges: James Robinson Richard Duffin Show Guide editor: Jack Harrison Stand enquires: 01507 529430 Ticket hotline: 01507 529529 Ticket website: classicbikeshows.com

jumblers, it is the perfect place to grab some parts and spares to complete any restoration projects. Visitors will also be encouraged to start a new restoration, or hopefully inspired to finish off any current work being carried out ready for the year ahead.

And the Winter Classic doesn’t just celebrate classic motorcycles, but also showcases the wonderful world of scooter ownership in the ever-popular Scooter World.

Triple British scooter champion Stuart Day will be the attraction’s special guest, and the hall will be packed with local scooter clubs, private entries and traders. There’s also a charity auction, ‘Blast from the Past’ scooter start-ups and an interview with William ‘Bill’ Woodhouse who built scooters used in Quadrophenia.

FROM CAROLE NASH...

TIMETABLE SATURDAY, JANUARY 7 SUNDAY, JANUARY 8 Show opening times | 9am-5pm

Show opening times | 9am-4pm

10.30

MAIN STAGE The Birchall brothers with Steve Plater

10.30

MAIN STAGE The Birchall brothers with Steve Plater

11.30

SCOOTER WORLD Stuart Day and the Birchall brothers with Steve Plater

11.30

SCOOTER WORLD William ‘Bill’ Woodhouse with Dave Walker

12.00

SCOOTER WORLD Charity auction

12.00

12.45

SCOOTER WORLD Blast from the past scooter start-up

SCOOTER WORLD William ‘Bill’ Woodhouse with Steve Plater

13.00

MAIN STAGE The Birchall brothers with Steve Plater

SCOOTER WORLD Blast from the past scooter start-up

14.00

SCOOTER WORLD Custom Show presentations with Stuart Day

14.30

MAIN STAGE The Birchall brothers with Steve Plater

15.30

MAIN STAGE Show Awards presentation sponsored

by Carole Nash

14.30

Show Guide printed at Mortons Print as part of Motor Cycle Monthly, mortonsprint.com

Carole Nash is once again proud to support the Carole Nash Classic Bike Guide Winter Classic. Our crew will be on hand at the event to chat with visitors and answer any questions you may have, so don’t forget to come and say hello. While you’re there you can pick up a Carole Nash goody bag, and get the info you need to download our amazing insidebikes app powered by Carole Nash! It includes a breathtaking experience that puts you in the saddle of Rocket Ron Haslam’s Honda superbike speeding around Donington GP circuit. We certainly can’t wait to get there, and we look forward to meeting you.

Rebecca Donohue Head of marketing, Carole Nash

Awards list

Main show

Private entries Main hall

● A Barber 1975 Honda Sammy Miller High Boy ● D Beck 1964 Garelli Junior ● B Church 1958 AJS Trials ● M Curtis 1965 Greeves Challenger ● M Curtis 1962 Greeves Hawkstone MDS ● M Curtis 1965 Rickman Starmaker ● D Eardley 1956 BSA Gold Star DBD34 ● G Holloway 1973 Triumph Rob North Trident ● G Kendrick 1984 Yamaha FZ 750 ● G Kendrick 1985 Kawasaki GPZ 750 ● S McNeil 1978 Yamaha TZ 373 Sprint ● L Muxlow 1971 Suzuki GS 750 Cafe Racer ● M Nicholas 1958 Greeves 25TA ● V Shield 1976 Kawasaki Z 900

● J Sorbi ● K Thirtle ● A Tinnion ● S Wood ● A Wright

Scooter World

● S Baines ● P Guppy ● J Newbold ● J Nicholas ● M Robinson ● N Ronald ● I Smith ● M Swonnell

1964 Benelli FFA 1921 Dunelt Supercharged 1980 Krauser Sprint 1983 Honda VT 500 1962 Honda C72 Dream 1961 Lambretta Series 2 Li 125 1964 Douglas Vespa Sportique Vespa 90 1959 BSA Dandy Multiple exhibits TBC 1969 Lambretta GP125 1967 Moto Vespa Sprint 1961 Lambretta TV Series 2

● Best in Show, sponsored by Pocklington Renault of Louth (perpetual), £100 and Rosette ● Machine of Most Technical Interest, £100 ● Best Vintage ● Best Pre-War ● Best Post-War ● Best Continental ● Best Vintage Japanese ● Best Modern ● Best Private Entry 1st, 2nd, 3rd ● Best Competition (trials and scrambles) ● Best Competition (any other type) ● Best Un-Restored ● Best Restoration ● Best Paint Job ● Best Trade Entry

● Best Club Stand 1st, £750 and 10 Rosettes ● Best Club Stand 2nd, £500 and 10 Rosettes ● Best Club Stand 3rd, £250 and 10 Rosettes ● 10 Highly Commended Rosettes

Scooter World

● Best Scooter in Show, £100 and Rosette ● Best Scooter Display, £100 ● Best Custom Scooter ● Best Lambretta ● Best Vespa ● Best Street Racer ● Best Original Looking Scooter ● Best Other ● 10 Highly Commended Rosettes

FREE FOUR-PAGE PULL-OUT SHOW GUIDE 21

Clubs Main Hall

Air Cooled Suzuki Lady Eastwood | 231-232 41 J Martin 1986 GSX E 1100 42 F Martin 1980 GSX Kat 1100 43 P Hallam 1981 GSX ET 1100 44 J King 1985 GSX EFE 1200 45 P Morris 1981 GSX ET 1200 46 D Parker 1981 GSX Kat 1100 47 M Fisher 1985 GSX EFE 1100 48 J Skelly 1985 DR 400 49 T Davidson 1981 GSX EZ 1100 50 R Hocking 1981 GSX ET 750 51 J Paul 1981 Spondon GSX 1100 AJS & Matchless Pre-65 Trials George Stephenson | 96-97 134 M Francis 1964 James Trials 250 135 D Hird 1960 AJS 16c 410 136 S Brown 1955 Francis-Barnett 8E 197 137 H Allen 1959 Triumph 3TA 350 138 T Wright 1963 BSA C15T 250 139 J Mattersley 1959 Matchless G3C 350 British Historic Racing George Stephenson | 92 219 M Whittaker 1957 BSA A10 650 220 S Whittaker 1962 Royal Enfield Bullet 350 221 J Hebb 1971 Honda CB500/4 500 222 J Scrivener 1970 Aermacchi Drixton 350 223 R Moss 1934 Scott Flying Squirrel 646 224 J Lorriman 1982 BMW K100 10000 225 M Powell 1971 BSA Bantam 125 226 A Pope 1953 Triumph Thunderbird 750 227 J Christopher 1977 Laverda Montjuic 500 BSA Gold Star Owners Club George Stephenson | 81 108 J Birchall 1957 Gold Star DBD 34 500 109 G Inger 1960 Gold Star DBD 34 500 110 G Sheldon 1958 Gold Star CB 32 500 111 D Camm 1961 Gold Star DBD 34 500 112 A Rudduck Gold Star Trials Outfit B33 500 113 B Bartholemew 1958 Gold Star BB 350 114 D Steele Gold Star Tonkin 500 115 J Crooks 1960 Gold Star DBD 34 500 116 B Shackleford Shack Special1000 117 B Davise 1960 Norbster 500 118 B Paine 1958 Gold Star Street Scrambler DBD 34 500 119 K Beeckcroft 1951 Gold Star Ex Racer ZB 350 120 M Curtis Gold Star Enduro DBD 34 500 121 B Sheldon 1958 Gold Star DBD 34 500 CBX Enthusiasts Lady Eastwood | 228 79 N Sadler 80 S Courney 81 A Fisher 82 A Swain 83 N Clarricoats 84 A Read 85 R Dale 86 G Posnett

1980 Honda CBX 1047 1979 Honda CBX 1047 1980 Honda CBX 1047 1979 Honda CBX 1047 1978 Honda CBX 1047 1981 Honda CBX 1047 1982 Honda CBX 1047 1980 Honda CBX 1047

Christian Motorcyclists’ Association Lady Eastwood | 229 151 I Cameron 1979 Honda CD200 Benly 194/16 152 Chris White 1991 Kawasaki ZZR 1100 1052/147 Classic Racing Motorcycle Club George Stephenson | 80 176 K Perch 1962 Norton Manx 177 G Hemshall 1948 Moto Guzzi Seeley Dondolino 178 S Hemshall 1948 Moto Guzzi Gambalunga 179 D & L White 1976 Spondon Yamha TZ 180 T Horton 1981 Harris Suzuki F1 181 T Horton 1980 Yamaha TZ 182 D Eardley 1971 Rob North Trident T150 183 D Eardley 1987 Yamaha FZ Formula Prostocks Racing Club Lady Eastwood | 223 89 K Chambers 1997 Suzuki GSF 600 90 W Harrison 1996 Suzuki GSF 600 91 J Harrison 1995 Suzuki GSF 600 92 N Lawrence 1996 Suzuki GSF 600 Gawsworth Jesters Lady Eastwood | 221 291 D Turner 1959 Triumph Tiger Cub 200 292 J Potts 2011 Sachs Midas 125 293 J Wakefield 1999 Gas Gas JTX 320 294 M Mountford Suzuki GS 500 295 P Harrison 1998 Suzuki Bandit 600

Italian Motorcycle Owners Club George Stephenson | 90-91 254 C Stockton 1958 MV Agusta 125 255 M Kremin 1988 Mecatecno Trials 325 256 M Kremin 1978 Beta GS 257 S Wood 1955 Benelli Spring Lasting 200 258 G Hallet 1951 Moto Guzzi Superalce 500 259 R Maulson 1973 Aermacchi Sprint 350 260 P Sproston 1968 Aermacchi Drixton Racer 350 261 I Tigwell 1956 Moto Morini Briscola 175 262 M Bracken 1958 Ducati Sport 175 263 G Wood 1956 Beta Mondial 150 264 A Maulson 1971 Aermacchi Sprint Scrambler 350 265 K Gooding 2014 MV Agusta Bruale Italia 800 266 D Boarer TBC 267 D Boarer TBC 268 D Boarer TBC 269 G Arnold 1963 Benelli Sprite 200 Lightweight Two Stroke Lady Eastwood | 229a 201 S Williams 202 R Baxter 203 J Bartlett 204 R Bartlett 205 S Robinson 206 A Bell 207 L Bell 208 M Bell 209 K Alderman 210 M Grub 211 J Alderman 212 L Baxter 213 P Ranshaw 214 J Bell 215 A Bell 216 J Bell

1981 Yamaha RD50M 49 1977 Suzuki AP50 49 1981 Honda MT50 49 1971 Yamaha DT1 1975 Kawasaki GS 98 1978 Yamaha FS1E 49 1987 Yamaha FS1E 49 1980 Yamaha FS1E 49 1973 Yamaha FS1E 49 1986 Yamaha FS1E 49 1990 Yamaha TZ50 49 1976 Yamaha TY80 79 1988 Kawasaki AR50 49 1972 Yamaha LT2 98 1972 Yamaha AT2 123 1975 Yamaha DT100 123

London Douglas Motorcycle Club Lady Eastwood | 231 281 P Parry-Jones 1921 Douglas 2 ¾ 282 C Borley 1916 Douglas V 283 P Smith 1937 Douglas Aero 600 284 D Lawrence 1948 Douglas Mark Racer 350 285 L Boydell 1951 Douglas Cutaway Engine 286 R Moss 1951 Douglas 90 Plus 350 287 B Bailey 1927 Douglas EW 350 288 P Davies 1930 Douglas S6 600 Maico Owners Club Lady Eastwood | 230 96 P Pateman 97 M Plummer 98 P Cooper 99 J Churchill

1959 Maico Maicoletta 250 1958 Maico Maicoletta 277 1959 Maico Maicoletta 277 1956 Maico Mobil 200

National Association of Bikers with a Disability Lady Eastwood | 226 156 S Bocking 2016 Yamaha YBR 125 157 S Doyle Honda CG 125 158 NABD TBC Owd Codgers And Friends George Stephenson | 83-84 Exhibits TBC Robin Hood County Riders Lady Eastwood | 221a 63 J Phillips 1946 James Ml Sport 122 64 S Massie 1969 Rickman Petite Metisse 250 65 S Williams 1980 Jawa GP Racer 80 66 S Kirpatrick 1974 DT/MX Sand Racer 175 67 J Swyers 1972 MV 350GT 68 T Smedley 1964 Ariel Golden Arrow 250 69 M Wainwright 1956 CZ/Walter GP Racer 350 70 P Oldham 1960 Velocette Dodkin Replica 250 71 T Birch 1936 Sunbeam Model 7 350 72 M Boswell 1964 Honda RC162 Replica 250 73 A Barkus 1994 Z Express Drag Bike 1000 74 R Phillips 1979 Yamaha RD400f 400 75 M Bland 1958 Norton Manx/40M 350 76 L Bellamy 1973 Yamaha 250T2 Skegness & District MCC Lady Eastwood | 235 242 D Cullingford 1974 Yamaha 250RD 243 M Cullingford 1944 Yamaha 350RD 244 D Tarrant 1963 Raleigh Roma 245 A Tarrant 1962 Capri 246 D Tarrant Simmax 6000 247 P Crow 2003 Yamaha Fazer 100000 248 G Snow 2013 Honda CB500X 249 D Walker TBC 250 B Rust TBC 251 D Tellersun TBC

Straightliners George Stephenson | 87 57 T Duckworth 58 S Walker 59 S Walker 60 T Duckworth

1983 Yamaha TZ 350 1938 Velocette KSS 500 1934 Levis 250 1998 Honda 400

Supermono GB Lady Eastwood | 224 161 M James 2004 GRC BMW BME F650 726/90 162 J Miller 1996 Tigcraft Supermono 690/64 163 J Warner 1979 Kirby Honda Supermono 500 164 S Newton 1985 Hagon Honda Supermono 500 Sunbeam Owners Fellowship Lady Eastwood | 236 142 P Knight 1951 Sunbeam S7 Delux 500 143 P Knight 1952 Sunbeam S8 500 144 C Griggs 1951 Sunbeam S8 500 145 D Wilson 1951 Sunbeam S8 500 146 I Thompson 1952 Sunbeam S7 Delux 500 147 A Briggs 1946 Sunbeam S7 500 148 J Davies 1950 Sunbeam Special 650 Trident Owners Club 3 Lady Eastwood | 225 102 D Herzberg 103 T Concannon 104 D Herzberg 105 D Beardsall

1969 Triumph Trident 750 1975 Triumph T160 750 1970 Rob North Trident 750 1969 BSA Rocket 3 750

UK 2 Stroke Lady Eastwood | 233-234 230 N Lea 231 C Murphy 232 D Yates 233 Diane 234 K Murphy 235 L Martin 236 Bill 237 Will 238 J Young 239 Scottman

1981 Kawasaki KH 350 1980 Yamaha 350 LC 1983 Yamaha 421 1982 Yamaha 421 1985 Yamaha TZR250 1978 Yamaha FS1E 1991 Yamaha F2 1984 Honda MBX 125 1980 Yamaha 350LC Benelli MX

Velocette Owners Club George Stephenson | 78 124 D Wells 1914 Velocette Model A 220 125 B Dawson 1950 Velocette Covel 500 126 J Mundey 1937 Velocette KTT Mark 7 350 127 H Bacon 1957 Velocette MSS 500 128 P Charlton 1947 Velocette KSS Springer 350 129 P Bateman 1954 Velocette Mac 350 130 P Livesey 1961 Velocette Venom Clubman 500 131 P Snowden 1962 Velocette Viper 350 VMCC Mid Lincs/South Lincs & Peterborough Sections George Stephenson | 82 272 R Maw 1979 Yamaha XT500 499 273 H Bacon 1927 BSA Model E 770 274 R Meggett 1937 AJW Flying Fox 500 275 R Macdonald 1959 DKW RT200VS 197 276 J Jones 1966 P & M Panther 35es 250 277 A Streeter 1950 Matchless G3lCS 350 278 P Gunnee 1982 MZ TS250/1 250 Virago Star Owners Club Lady Eastwood | 227 169-173 Exhibits TBC VJMC George Stephenson | 76-77 186 S Marsay 1993 Kawasaki ZZR1100 187 E Middleton 1990 Yamaha TDR250 188 D Le Noan 1974 Kawasaki H2 189 J Le Noan 1973 Yamaha RD250 190 A Bolas 1982 Yamaha RD250LC 191 A Bolas 1987 Yamaha YSR50 192 R Gibbons 1984 Honda UF750 193 M Wheeler 1996 Honda CBR600 194 G Jeffery 1983 Yamaha RD350 YPVS 195 G Jeffery 1982 Honda CB250N Deluxe 196 M Barge 1978 Kawasaki Z1R DI 197 M Barge 1974 Kawasaki KE175 198 H Cockerton TBC

Scooter World British Lambretta Archive Scooter World | 662 381 P Davies 1967 Innocenti Lambrettino 382 P Davies 1964 Innocenti Lambretti 383 L Geary 1960 Innocenti Lambretta TV 384 S Gray 1951 Innocenti Lambretta FB 385 L Cordingley Innocenti Lambretta Li 386 D Turner 1970 Eibar Lambretta Li 387 P Hardwick 1959 Innocenti Lambretta Li

388 T Bryant Innocenti Lambretta Li 389 D Barber 1969 Innocenti Lambretta Vega 390 D Barber 1969 Innocenti Lambretta Cometa 391 A Downs SIL GP 392 C Newberry Innocenti Lambretta LC 393 P Thomas Innocenti Lambretta Li 394 B Rendell Innocenti Lambretta LC 395 K Hawkes 1968 Innocenti Lui 396 K Hawkes 1963 Innocenti Li 397 P Muirhead Innocenti Lambretta 398 D Waddingham Innocenti Lambretta LD 399 J Walklate 1954 Innocenti Lambretta 48 400 J Walklate 1959 Innocenti Lambretta 48 401 S Conneely 1969 Innocenti Lambretta GP 402 D Kirk Innocenti Lambretta GP 403 G Seale Innocenti Lambretta B 404 M Waters Innocenti Lambretta D 405 R Holland Innocenti Lambretta Vega 406 K Reynolds 1965 Innocenti Lambro 200 British Scooter Sport Organisation Scooter World | 527 Exhibits TBC Generation SC Scooter World | 656 Exhibits TBC Lincoln & Newark Scooter Modern Collective Scooter World | 535, 538 327 W Shaw 1965 Lambretta Li150 328 P Lovall 1963 Lambretta Li150 329 P Brooks 1966 Lambretta Li150 330 D Oxley 1970 Lambretta GP200 331 S Justice 1984 Lambretta Serveta Lynx 332 S Marriot 1980 Lambretta Si L200 333 N Hunt 1966 Lambretta Li180 334 M Marriot 1980 Lambretta Si L200 335 M Cobb 1962 Lambretta Li125 336 A Hughes 1962 Lambretta Li150 Lost & Lonely Scooter Club Scooter World | 641, 653 320 S Stamp 1962 Lambretta Li125 321 N Drewry 1959 Lambretta Series 1 322 I White 1965 Lambretta Li125 323 C McGlone 1975 Lambretta Jet 2000 324 R Hookham 1956 Lambretta Series 2 Shedtune Scooter World | 619 339 D Shurety 340 R Shea 341 G Watson 342 D Shurety 343 G Watson 344 D Shedtune

1981 Lambretta GB 1983 Lambretta GB TBC 1960 Lambretta Li125 Lambretta Sprinter 1978 Lambretta Sprinter

Team Vespa Scooter World | 636 360 N Kerr 361 N Kerr

1966 Vespa 90SS 1966 Vespa LC1 90SS

Vespa Club GB Scooter World | 539-540 Exhibits TBC Worksop Mod Appreciation Society Scooter World | 540 409 A Stevens 1959 Lambretta LI Series 1 410 D Thorns 1966 Vespa SS Mona 411 K Mellors 1965 Vespa SS Mona 412 A Gore 1998 Vespa T5 Classic Zundapp Bella Enthusiasts Club (ZBEC) Scooter World | 549 347 B Crook 1954 Zundapp R153 348 A Crook 1964 Zundapp Bella 200 349 M Spurrell 1953 Zundapp Bella R150 350 B Zwiers 1955 Zundapp Bella R151 351 J Morley 1961 Zundapp Bella R204 352 S Kripgans 1960 Zundapp Bella R204 353 S Turner 1961 Zundapp Bella R204 354 M Broadhurst 1960 Zundapp MB Bella 355 S Titterton 1957 Zundapp Bella R151 356 A Hill 1956 Zundapp Bella R201 357 D Peddie 1961 Zundapp Bella R204

Want to organise a club stand or private entry at one of our bike shows?

Call the events team on 01507 529430

A full trader list is available on large map boards throughout the venue.

SHOW MAP

22 FREE FOUR-PAGE PULL-OUT SHOW GUIDE

24 RIDING AMERICA

BUCKET-LIST BIKING (and how to do it best)

The American Dream. Live it.

Instant bike gang, just add (cheap) fuel.

Ask a British rider to describe their dream two-wheel holiday and many will say North America. Here are the three best ways to make it happen.

Words and photography: Steve Rose It’s never been easier to have a big adventure on a motorcycle. The amount of companies offering motorcycle tours has increased and the quality of their offerings has come on a lot in recent years, too. North America is probably the most popular destination and, although you can choose from a broad selection of bikes, many people still see a Harley as the best way to go.

If you fancy a go then there are two options; get an organised operator to sort it for you (most can provide a fully guided or self-guided option) or sort it all out yourself. The left-field additional method would be to ship your own bike over there, but the cost and timescale involved mean this only really works for much longer trips than a two-week tour. Best option for you will depend on budget, bravery and the amount of time you have to organise things.

Why you need to ride America

But, before you choose, what is that makes America so special? Forget the clichés about never-ending straight roads, boring Harleys and no decent

Want corners? You got ’em.

corners. You will be amazed just how many of the USA’s back roads are twice as stunning as anything you’ll find in Europe. Once you’re out of the towns you’ll find mile after mile of well-surfaced, challengingbut-predictable, twisting, country back roads as well as the stereotype horizon-chasing, never-ending blacktop. Then there’s the scenery, the light, the mountains, the lakes and the wildlife. Oh, and the people and the food and the easygoing nature of most things over there.

Choose the right state and you’ll also have perfect riding weather, plus cheap fuel (how does 65p per litre sound?) and a surprising amount of fascinating history all around you. Riding in America really can offer everything from crazy, big-city commuting (everyone should ride through Los Angeles at least once – you’ll never experience anything like it) to absolute solitude and the sense of freedom that only comes with being in the middle of the middle of nowhere – just you, and a coyote for company. They even speak the same language (the people, that is).

Route 66 guru Gary… and friend.

Every stop is a bike meet.

Option one: The guided tour

A guided tour is the full-on, noworries, bucket-list option. You’ll ride in a group of (usually) 10-15 bikes with between 10-20 riders and pillions, which means you have a ready-made bunch of mates to share it with. The qualified tour guide will have decades of local knowledge from riding the main streets and back roads. They’ll know the best twisties, the best lunch stops, the easiest fuel stations to get in and out of and where to eat and drink. Plus, they can deal with the local customs, traffic regulations and anything else likely to get in the way of a great time.

A great tour guide assesses the riding skills of the group and adjusts the pace accordingly. Bringing a group of unfamiliar riders across thousands of miles safely and have them all feel confident and enjoy it is tricky. Add in some jet lag, unfamiliar roads and traffic, the occasional hangover and a huge variety of riding experience and you can see why they take it so seriously.

There will also be a back-up van, driven by another experienced guide who knows the route. The van contains your luggage, plus spares, tools, first aid, a spare bike and stuff that you’ll hopefully never need, but will be very glad it’s there should something untoward happen.

If you’ve never ridden in the USA before, a guided tour is the easiest way to go. Your biggest responsibility is to be by your bike on time in the morning, sober and ready to ride.

A good tour company includes the following on a guided tour: ● Rental motorcycle; current year

model, less than 20,000 miles.

● American licensed tour guide

on motorcycle, and assistant in support vehicle. ● Standard motorcycle insurance cover including CDW and state minimum liability cover. ● Support/luggage vehicle with spare motorcycle, first aid kit, coolbox/ soft drinks. ● Tourbook including maps. ● Accommodation in three- or fourstar hotels. ● National Park, State Park and National Monument entrance fees. ● All fuel and oil used on the tour. ● Hotel parking fees. ● Hotel-to-dealership transfers. ● Unlimited mileage. ● All taxes and one-way fees. ● Guaranteed financial and legal protection, from Travel Trust Association membership and ATOL Bond.

How much does that all cost?

Two people on one motorcycle for a 10-day tour (eight days on the bike, plus one either side for travelling), sharing a room will typically cost around £2150 per person (prices come from Orange & Black – orangeand-black.co.uk – which runs excellent, professional tours to the highest standard – I know, I’ve spent my own money going on them).

Two people on two bikes sharing a room increases to around £3000 each, and if you want a room on your own you’ll be looking at closer to £3800.

And don’t forget, on top of this you’ll need to add cost of flights, travel insurance, food and drink.

So for two people, sharing a room, but each riding their own bike you’re looking at £6000, plus at least £1000 for two return flights, £200 travel insurance and around £100 a day spending money. Total cost: £8000.

That’s a lot of money, a proper ‘bucket-list’ experience. Thing is… it’s worth it. And more besides. Seriously, if you can afford it, do it. It will not be a decision you regret.

The perfect starter trip to the US is…

A guided tour of Route 66

Which is handy, because it’s also the one that many people really want to do.

What makes Route 66 ideal is that in between the start point of Chicago and finish point of Los Angeles, most of the riding is easy, relatively straight and traffic-free. It’s a long way, but the days fairly easy, you’ll see all sides of American culture and experience a real piece of living history, too.

RIDING AMERICA 25 Option two: The self-guided tour (a better way for half the price... almost) If you’ve already ridden (or driven) in America and are comfortable with navigating across the pond, then a self-guided tour is a great way to see more and save money.

With this package, the tour operator helps you with the itinerary and routes, books the hotels, sorts out the bike hire (including delivery to the hotel or transfer to the dealer) and is there, at the end of the phone should anything go wrong. Chances are they will get better rates on the rooms than you will independently and know the best places to make life easy. For example, on our last tour, the hotel booked at the start in Las Vegas made it incredibly easy to get out of town quickly and safely while we were still ‘newbie’ nervous and jet-lagged. The one we had in San Francisco was the same – easy to get into in rush hour on Friday and easy to get out of in rush hour on Monday. That stuff matters.

The advantages of self-guided are many but the main ones are: ● You can choose your own dates

because you aren’t relying on being part of a ‘proper’ tour. ● No costs for the guide and the backup truck saves a lot of money. ● You get the benefit of the tour operator’s expertise and experience, for much less money. ● You can stop for lunch or photos or fuel or a piddle whenever you feel like it.

● You can choose your route each

day – if you want to take the longer route, it’s fine. If you want to get there earlier and enjoy the hotel, then that’s what you can do. ● You can eat where you like, especially good if you’re vegetarian, or just fussy. ● You can ride at your own pace with no peer pressure. ● It’s an adventure, and there are worse places to get lost.

Set against that, here are the things you need to consider: ● You’ll need to be confident with

American roads, maps and time taken to cover (vast) distance. ● You won’t know the local back roads and points of interest like a good guide will. ● Self-guided tours save money, but usually don’t include fuel costs (around £10-15 per day). ● There aren’t a ready-made bunch of new mates to share it with. ● There’s no back-up truck or spare bike if things go wrong, although you do have recovery and a collection of numbers to call so you won’t be left stranded.

My wife and I have been on guided tours twice before, but this year we went self-guided and absolutely loved it. The freedom to go where we wanted and stop when we wanted to was terrific. There’s so much to

This year’s bikes, low-mileage, properly prepped.

The third way

If you’re really experienced and confident, and feeling a bit adventurous, then you could just book your own flights, hire the bikes when you get there and book your own hotels. You’ll get a whole lot more flexibility, but you won’t actually save much, if any, money.

For example, to hire a Harley Electra Glide on your own for eight days, including insurance from Eagle Rider (probably the biggest independent rental outfit) costs £1283. An eight-day self-guided tour through California and Nevada with Orange & Black motorcycle tours (the only officially authorised Harley tour partner in the UK) including all accommodation, route assistance and emergency recovery facilities costs £1245. That’s £38 less for a professional company to organise your tour, rather than having to do it yourself.

Fuel station etiquette

Credit card is definitely easiest. Most pumps have a card reader but UK cards rarely work. Go inside, ask for more than you think you’ll need and the attendant will authorise your card. Fill up and the card machine automatically credits any change back to you.

Two other essentials; the black pump is unleaded – this is important.

Green is for diesel in the US. And the pumps have a safety catch– usually a spring on the nozzle – designed for car fillers that you have to pull back manually to make the pump work.

see and sometimes you need to turn around and go back for a better look at what you just rode past. That’s hard with a tour guide and 14 other bikes.

Navigation was simple, although we might have missed out on a few great roads as the temptation is always to follow what looks like a straightforward route when you have a lot of miles to cover.

The costs For the same 10-day tour as option one – but nonguided – two people on one bike sharing a room will typically cost around £1245 per person. Two people on two bikes sharing a room increases to around £1750 each, and if you want a room on your own it’ll be around £2475.

So for two people, sharing a room, but each riding their own bike you’re looking at £3500, plus at least £1000 for two return flights, £200 travel insurance and around £120 a day spending money including an allowance for fuel. Total cost: £5660.

That’s still not exactly ‘fortnight-in-Benidorm’ money, but believe me, this is no ordinary holiday.

Is anyone else warm?

Mesh suit has protection and cool comfort, too.

Downtown Las Vegas; they sell Jack Daniels in pints.

See the real America in safety.

The streets of San Francisco; if Carlsberg did hill starts.

Riding in America The drivers are polite, alert (mostly) and don’t have the fascination with speed that Europeans do. They drive on the right, and they have weird four-way-stop junctions – essentially a crossroads with no rules. You have to stop, but then it’s a staring contest to see who goes first.

At junctions, if you are

Packing for self-guided

Two weeks’ luggage for two people into a Harley Ultra Glide and saddlebag equipped Sportster should be simple. Our kit went in canvas ‘bags-for-life’ which then went into panniers. A 30-litre rucksack bungeed to the Ultra’s pillion seat meant we could use the top box as a daily carrier for drinks, cool-vests, bike locks, food and whatever else needs to be in and out in a hurry.

Navigation

America is easy to navigate. Most places are laid out in grids and the main roads are imaginatively named; 1st, 2nd, 3rd etc. with smaller roads labelled as ‘just off 3rd’ making it logical and easy to work out where you are. Motorways (freeways) and major roads (interstates) are also easy, although when going through a major city there can be 10 or more exits so it’s wise to make sure you know which one you need.

turning right and the red light is flashing, you can go if there’s nothing coming.

You have to stop behind a school bus if the red lights are flashing and you have to pay for your fuel before you fill up.

Oh, and you can overtake on both sides, but are not allowed to filter in most states. Other than that, it’s easy.

Keeping cool

California and Nevada are roughly twice as hot as a typical British summer. Leathers will have you risking heatstroke, most textiles ditto. But t-shirt and jeans is scary and risks sunburn and dehydration. The best kit we’ve found is a mesh, textile suit.

Thick Cordura panels offer abrasion resistance, plus armour for impact. But they also have huge mesh panels that let air flow through the suit and keep you cool. We used Held’s mesh suits, which were very impressive. Well built, a good fit and armour where you need it. Good value too at a little less than £300. We also had some additional REV’IT cooling vests for riding in the desert and Death Valley. These use ‘Hyperkewl’ technology (whatever that is) and work brilliantly. You simply soak them in cold water, wring out the excess and put them on. The air passing over them instigates some fantastical magic and keeps you cool. Don’t question it, just be amazed.

Yosemite: Two million years in the making.

Communication

Bluetooth intercoms are brilliant.

Not only to share the experience, but also for navigation. We used the Interphone Sport, which has a claimed range of half a kilometre.

Battery life is 14 hours talk-time and there are all manner of radio and phone modes that might be interesting if that’s your idea of fun.

Pairing the two units together is simple and reception in town, at lower speeds, is excellent. Being able to talk makes a huge difference when only one person has a sat nav. At higher speeds (50mph-plus) it is harder to work out what’s being said. Different helmets have different effects on performance, as does the position of the microphone.

Need a good place to start?

We’ve done three tours (two guided and one self-guided) with Orange & Black (orange-and-black.co.uk) and had an amazing time on all of them. First-class organisation, late-model, low-mileage bikes and top-quality hotels. Highly recommended.

26 PRODUCTS

Shoei RYD hellmet

EDZ Yeeti fleece RRP: £600 // Sizes: Men’s S-3XL, w women’s: 8-18 // Colours: Black, blue and red

RRP: £349.99 // Sizes: TBC // Colours: TB BC New for 2017, the Shoei RYD helmet is a street sport full face helmet, with what Shoei calls ‘aggressive and sharp design’. It has been developed using the newest technology and its outer shell features organic fibres and multi-composite fibres in various layers for a shock-absorbent shell with optimum rigidity.

The visor is equipp ped with a Pinlock anti-fog systtem, the strap is secured with a dou uble-d buckle, there’s a spoiler for improved i aerodynamics, theree are multiple vents for good air flo ow and the linerr is removable and waashable.

For further inform mation: shoeiassured.co.uk

Sena Prism Bluetooth uetoooth action camera cameeraa RRP: £229

Sena’s Prism is the first action camera to have Bluetooth connectivity built in, so users can record sound straight over their video footage either through the built-in Ultra HD Voice Recording microphone, or connecting to virtually any Bluetooth helmet headset they choose.

No additional video/audio editing is needed, because the Prism mixes the audio feed in real-time, creating an instantly shareable multi-track audio.

The recording can be started, stopped and shared quickly and easily, using either Sena’s Bluetooth remote control or any Sena Bluetooth headset with a built-in Jog Dial.

The Prism shoots full 1080p FHD video recording with 5 MP still-shot image capture, and has a variety of other video modes (1080p:30fps,

720p:30/60fps, 480p:up to 120fps) and photo modes (shot, time-lapse, and burst) to choose between. The firmware can also be upgraded.

The camera comes with a variety of mounting hardware, including clamps for helmets, handlebars and windscreen and even a motorcycle-

specific fog lamp base, so users can choose the camera position to suit the bike and/or activity. It’s waterresistant right out of the box, and the waterproof housing keeps the Prism safe up to a depth of 40 metres.

For further information: motohaus.com

The Yeti is s a double-sided fleece, an nd according to EDZ, it’s warme er than a conventional fleece butt not as bulky, making it ideal forr wearing under most textile jac ckets. It features thumb slits, inne er cargo pockets and hand warmer pockets.

For furth her information: edzlayerin ng.com

PRODUCTS 27

Furygan Titan Evo E

Givi Easy-T tunnel bag RRRP: £59.22 / £54.37 (urban) // Size: 15L

RRP: £289.99 // Sizes: S-4XL // Colours: Blacck

The Titan Evo is Furygan’s topof-the-range textile jacket. With styling derived from the company’s racing roots, it is made from a robust, breathable, waterproof and dirt-resistant polyamide. There is D3O protection in the elbows and shoulder, plus additional external shells on the shoulders and back protector pocket suitable for the D3O level-one and -two protectors.

There are reflective inserts on the chest, arms and back and additional external shells on the shoulders.

The jacket is adjustable at the wrists, neck, waist and arms to ensure the protectors remain perfectly placed, even without the removable thermal padded lining with aluminium inserts.

Wiith the addition of 13 new bags, Givvi says it’s bringing solutions to the luggage needs of short-tome edium commutes in a cuttingdge and innovative style. ed The range includes tank bags, T tail bags, saddle bags, backpacks, g bags and even a tunnel bag for leg cooters. The bags are made from sc 00D polyester, a fabric that offers 60 great durability and sturdiness. g Itt gets reflective zip handles and high resistance fabrics. h The tunnel bag features an extractable rain cover, front handle for transportation, shoulder strap, two pockets containing quick fasteners, reinforced parts in rigid plastic and one strap with two clips for a fitment fi under the saddle.

F For ffurther th iinformation: f ti givvi.co.uk

According to Furygan, th he Titan Evo is waterproof thanks to o the internal poly mesh lining, which w is breathable and lightweigght.

For warmer days, it featurees Furygan’s Air Flow System (AFS) with vents with wateerrepellent zips on the chest and back. An additional flaap under the main front zip creates an extra barrier to the elements – and a staggered design ensures a comfortable fit. There are five pockets – two outside and three inside, including a net pocket for a mobile phone.

For further information: nevis.uk.com

Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR RRP: TBC

Pirelli has launched the Scorpion Rally STR, the new on/off enduro tyre designed specifically for the latest generation of Adventure, dual purpose and enduro street bikes. Pirelli says it’s a revolution in the tyre segment because it manages to combine the best performance of a rally competition tyre with that of an enduro street tyre.

The Scorpion Rally STR has been designed specifically to meet the most demanding needs on the market with an aggressive tread and importantt technological innovations that provide traction on dirt roads, stability even at high speeds, handling and agility on the road, in addition to comfort and grip across any and all riding conditions.

The new tyre was inspired by the winner of many competitions, the Scorpio Ra ally,

adding excellent road performance to the we ellknown off road handlin ng, specifically refined for use on large capacity Adventure and dual purpose motorcycles.

For further informatio on: pirelli.com i elli com

Victory’s Vi t ’ apparell andd gifts i range RRP: Various

For 2017 there’s a strong theme of ‘Victory performance’ stretching over many of the products in the Victory Motorcycles 2017 line-up, from new leather and textile jackets to t-shirts, caps and car window stickers.

There’s even a new category of Man Cave & Garage featuring items such as coffee mugs, bar mats, beer glasses, coasters, metal signage and a garage bike mat.

Victory is particularly proud of the new designs of t-shirts featuring graphics that

shout out about V-Twin performance.

There’s also the addition of a performance soft-shell jacket to the range, which is a hooded zip-through with a fleece lining and is made of 8% spandex for comfort.

Elsewhere there’s a new leather jacket for men and women called the Ignite Jacket and two new men’s textile jackets called the Challenger Jacket and the Bagger Jacket.

For further information: victorymotorcycles.com

Alpinestars Supertech gloves

TCX Drifter WP boots

RRP: £299.99 // Sizes: S-3XL // Colours: Black, red/white/black, red/white/black/yellow

RRP: £259.99 // Sizes: EU 36–48 /// Colour: Brown

According to Alpinestars the Supertech glove features premium kangaroo leather for superior levels of comfort and durability, and advanced technology with raised stitching seams to offer unparalleled dexterity and sensitivity on the bike’s controls.

Every component on the CE-certified Level 2 Supertec ch is meticulously engineered for precision and performance.

With class-leading material reinforcements such as Alpinestars’ Arshield aramid fibre and a heat-resistant Carbon X membrane, as well

as advanced Dynamic Friction Shield protection, this glove is primed for track and performance riding.

For further information: alpinestars.com m

The Drifter WP boot features a soft, brow wn leather upper with added gear change protection, double stitching and intermed p diate fo ootbed to make it robust, plus microfibre e frront and rear folds. It has a waterproof lin ning and internal protection against heatt in chamois leather.

The boot fastens using three wearre esistant, interchangeable aluminium buc ckles with an ergonomic design. The sole es have a deep tread and there are inse erts in the ankle area and polyurethane e shin nbone protection.

For further information: nevis.uk.com

28 TRIED & TESTED

RST Pro Series Adventure II jacket and trousers

Reviewed by: Mikko Nieminen // RRP: Jacket £279.99, trousers £219.99 // Sizes: Jacket 40-54, trousers 30-44 // Colours: Black or silver // Info: rst-moto.com One thing that you want from your riding kit is versatility. The idea with the RST Pro Series Adventure II jacket and trousers is that they should work everywhere, from the deserts of Sudan to the wilds of Borneo – and in good old Blighty too. And how do they claim to pull this off? By using layers, of course.

Both items have a removable waterproof lining and an equally removable thermal lining. There’s also a removable storm flap that covers the neck area. But it’s the ventilation that really makes this suit special; there are conventional zipped vents in the shoulders, back and arms, and very clever large vent panels on the chest and thighs where a patch of fabric can be folded away to reveal a nice big mesh area that lets plenty of air in. Operating the zips for this is a little fiddly, but well worth the effort.

Waterproofing is pretty good, but not bulletproof. It’s fine for a while but a couple of hours in driving rain did result in a few leaks here and there; mainly around the waist area, where waterproofing is difficult in any twopiece suit.

There are two external pockets on the jacket and four on the trousers, as well as an inside pocket in the jacket, but none in the waterproof lining which makes accessing the inner pocket awkward if using the waterproof layer.

Adjusters in the arms and waist are great to get rid of any flapping if you don’t quite fill the jacket, and the Velcro patches in the sleeves help seal the gloves in nicely.

Both items have flex panels to help movement, and they feel very relaxed while snug, allowing full movement on the bike.

The jacket and trousers can be zipped together to keep them from moving in a crash situation and also to block draughts.

Protectors are placed in the elbows, shoulders, back and knees (no hip armour). They are all made of soft and malleable material, which doesn’t restrict movement or hamper comfort.

Other cool features include a water bladder pocket on the back, and a removable map pocket that turns into a bum bag (I still haven’t been able to bring myself use it as a bum bag, but if you think that’s a look you can pull off, then go for it!).

This is a good, quality suit, and offers levels of performance usually only found in more expensive products.

Keis X10 heated vest Reviewed by: Mikko Nieminen // RRP: £119.99 // Sizes: 34-52 // Colour: Black // Info: motohaus.com

Shark Spartan Carbon helmet

Reviewed by: Ross Mowbray // RRP: £299.99 // Sizes: XS-2XL // Colours: White/silver or black/red or black anthracite // Info: nevis.uk.com My first impressions of the Shark Spartan Carbon were overwhelmingly positive. There’s no denying it’s a good looking helmet – I love it.

I also couldn’t believe its weight (or the lack thereof ) when I first picked it up. Constructed from carbon fibre and fibreglass, and coming in at just over 1.3 kilograms, my neck noticed a pretty dramatic difference in comparison to my previous helmets.

In addition to its exceptional appearance and weight, it’s a well kitted-out lid, packed with fantastic features including a Shark Skin cover which works to reduce whistling noise at high speeds, a double spoiler with built-in air extractors which optimises aerodynamics and internal cooling, a drop-down internal sun visor and a Pinlock MaxVision visor which works to reduce visor fogging.

I’d also expect it to offer decent levels of safety too (thankfully, something I haven’t had confirm just yet), with Shark often

scoring highly in the SHARP – helmet safety scheme – test.

I wear glasses when riding and as a consequence things can often get a little uncomfortable and occasionally steamy in (particularly as the colder weather draws in) but, thanks to the Pinlock anti-fog visor insert – which comes as standard – plus special consideration given for glasses-wearers in the form of grooves in the side of the helmet, I’m comfortable and I can see.

I’ve also got quite a small head (insert joke here) and can often struggle to get a decent fit for a helmet – but the Shark Spartan Carbon is absolutely spot on for me.

In short, the Shark Spartan is a fantastic helmet. It’s attractive, light, aerodynamic and practical, and at a cost of just £300 it’s also excellent value for money – and it’s covered by Shark's five year warranty. I’d wholeheartedly recommend.

If you ride your bike all year round, heated kit is essential. The Keis X10 goes a long way to battle wintry temperatures by keeping your core nice and warm on your rides. The vest is ‘dual powered’, meaning that you can power it via your 12V motorcycle battery or with the optional Keis battery packs (sold separately, £55).

Wiring the vest to the bike’s battery is not exactly difficult, but since I often ride several different bikes I opted for the battery pack. That way I can keep the vest warm regardless of the bike I’m on – or even when I’m not on the bike at all.

The vest fits snugly under my riding jacket. The material is stretchy, and there are elasticated side panels, so it doesn’t pull when you move around you just have to remember to unplug it from the bike before dismounting if you go for the bike battery connection.

Heat panels are positioned on chest and kidney areas. The level of heat is pleasant and with an optional controller (£29.99) you can select high, medium or low. The difference between the different heat levels isn’t huge, and I tend to stick to the lowest setting to preserve battery, which sees me through a two-hour daily commute with no problems.

According to Keis, current draw for the vest is 1.5A, and typical power 18W. You can also plug Keis heated gloves and inner soles to the vest and run the whole set from the bike battery, but this will naturally add to the draw.

The vest has made my winter commute on two wheels a lot more enjoyable. I would recommend it to anyone riding in cold weather.

29

30

THE INSIDE LINE TO CLASSIC JAPANESE IRON WITH STEVE COOPER FROM THE VJMC 31

A restoration blueprint Words and image: Steve Cooper

On the off chance that this column’s dire warnings and entreaties haven’t dissuaded you from taking on a full restoration of an old Japanese motorcycle, we’ll begin looking at what’s required to actually do the job.

First off, it pays to not assume anything about your new project.

Don’t assume it’s as good internally as it looks, don’t assume it’ll all come apart easily, don’t assume that parts will be easy to find and don’t assume you won’t become disillusioned at some point. This is all just part and parcel of the process.

So, it’s there in your workshop, garage, shed or spare room – and be warned, the latter happens a lot in our world. Once the aura of excitement begins to diminish you’ll need to come up with a solid plan, but rather than having to devise it yourself here’s one we’ve laid out for you. It’s a modus operandi used by most seasoned serial restorers and it generally works well.

First off take pictures, and lots of them. If you don’t have a digital camera or a decent camera on your phone, get one now. The advent of digital photography is possibly the biggest single advance in vehicle

restoration ever. It allows you to take endless images of vital components, wiring or cable runs, component orientation, the sequences of disassembly, connectors, etc. etc.

These will be vital later on when it comes to the rebuild as memory alone is fallible and written notes often tend to lose their meaning after several months. Shoot everything from at least two angles, preferably three and then immediately back up your images to something before you delete them from your phone or misplace the memory card. Also, name or identify the images so you know what’s what and where it goes.

In most circumstances you’ll be working in stages as components are removed. When the tank comes off there’ll be ignition coils and wiring underneath, so you’ll need to be able to identify which wires go where and what colour they are. Behind side panels you’ll be finding a regulator or a rectifier, relays and connectors; again having records of this makes the rebuild so much easier. Knowing which side of the frame tube a subloom runs can be the difference between a pleasant evening in the shed and late night fuelled with angst and bad language.

Beyond this comes the serious business of choosing the right tools, and this is where the fun starts. It’s

easy to rush in, unbolt everything in sight in a flurry of enthusiasm and then find yourself with a dozen broken fixings, a pile of parts and only half an idea how they all interlink. It’s much better to have that plan! Before you snap off just one bolt, spray anything with a thread in easing oil, penetrating fluid or the like. If asked to name one thing this column’s workshop couldn’t run without it would have to be ACF-50. No, not a blatant plug or a shameless product placement, rather a statement of fact. This stuff has the ability to penetrate and free seriously seized components. Left to do its thing for a few days, nuts and bolts that would normally shear in half actually come apart with relative ease. Sometimes it’s necessary to get seriously angry with seized whatevers and the controlled application of heat can work wonders, but it needs to be done with care. Avoid heating anything that has plastic or wiring nearby, ditto fuel tanks and apparently empty carburettors. Note that even decrepit old brake fluid is capable of starting a merry little blaze. Ideally the use of hot air gums or gas torches should be kept to outside and with a bucket of water just in case.

It should be pretty obvious, even to a beginner, which are the key parts of the bike but as the project gets

“The home of the Japanese classic”

deeper into the minutiae it all gets a lot greyer. Washers, bolts, nuts and the like may or may not all be the same so again decent digital images help in later identification and location.

Perhaps the best route is to tag-andbag sub-assemblies as they come off the bike so they can be dealt with later. For example, the headlight will slide off the forks complete with its mounting brackets, indicators and possibly a switch; stored in a box like this it can then be dissected at leisure.

When taking wheels off the bike leave the brake plates in place and refit the axle and the nut; this way all of the components stay in one place until you’re ready to deal with them.

Generally the easiest way to take an

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engine out of a frame is to loosen the engine mount bolts, lay the bike on its side and lift the frame off the bike.

So, in less than a thousand words we’ve managed to trivialise the breakdown of a bike to its component parts, but the basic method is still set out here. Next time we’ll look at inspection and the subbing out work you aren’t set up to do.

The VJMC – run by motorcyclists for motorcyclists. vjmc.com 01454 501310

vjmcmembershipuk@gmail.com

32 USED BIKE GUIDE

The begin-again bike

Thanks to Bacons Motorcycles / East London Kawasaki for the loan of the bike.

737-741 Eastern Avenue, Ilford, Essex IG2 7RT Tel: 020 8252 6020 Web: baconsmotorcyles.co.uk

It might only make 11bhp, but what you're looking at here is one of the all-time greats; especially at this time of year...

Words and photography: Bob Pickett As the motorcycle that launched probably millions of biking careers, Honda’s CG125 ran from 1975 to 2008 before it was replaced by the CB125F. It epitomises the premise of ‘basic biking’; I doubt there is a more simple motorcycle. We took out a 2005 model with an astonishingly low 1550 miles on the clock (post test ride!).

Give me some spec

A 124cc single-cylinder engine putting out 11bhp and 7ft-lb of torque lives in a simple steel tubular cradle frame, hauled up by a single 240mm front disc and 110mm rear drum.

Changes to the CG125 were minimal throughout its life, but were always useful: pushrods did away with seizing problems on early models, and towards the end of its time the bike got a front disc instead of a drum(!), more comfortable saddle and improved mirrors.

So what’s it like to ride?

If this is your first bike, you know no different. But if you have been riding a while on larger capacity machinery your initial thought will – I guarantee – be “what am I doing?”. To begin with, it all feels very wibbly-wobbly; sitting precariously on those slender tyres, with weedy handlebars sat in front of you and next to nothing underneath.

But, after a while – and you will have to give it a little time – you start to appreciate the CG125’s charms.

It has a nice slick little gearbox. First gear gets you going smoothly (look to change quickly), second takes you to 40mph (at a gripe, I usually went into the relatively broad third at 30mph), third will get you to 50mph.

Fourth gear has you humming along at 50mph with no effort and the CG is enjoyable to ride at this pace. I even made a couple of carefully planned overtakes. The max speed of 63mph can be held in top easily enough.

It’ll corner well enough. Once we’d been out on the road for a while I was getting frustrated with other road users slowing down for bends that the CG was happy to take faster.

It does the ‘town thing’ well, being small, light and low. Let’s be honest, the suspension is made from old bedsprings – the CG will bounce from pothole to pothole on rougher roads – but it copes well enough

with the average surface. And the brakes require careful planning, they’re weak but the target audience for this bike (UK: learners, Asia: basic transport for the masses) don’t want or need any more.

What nick is it in?

Really good. Then again, averaging140 miles a year it should be! I understand it was bought to pass CBT and log some miles before it was put away. It had some fuel drip from the overflow;

the tank may have been overfilled – the dealer is going to check.

What’s it worth?

The dealer wants £1599 for a 2005 model with a paltry 1550 miles logged, in great condition. There are CG125s out there; my dealer search revealed a small number of tidy examples, ranging from £1495 for a 2007 model with 3600 miles on the clock, to another 2007 bike with 4300 miles racked up for sale at £1995.

Th he MCM legal column is compiled byy managing artner pa Andrew ‘Chef’ Prendergast and P his bike-riding barristers and ssolicitors at White Dalton W Motorcycle M Solicitors.

S The firm deals with personal w injury claims and its sister a company, Motor Defenc Defence Solicitors, company 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 insuranceappointed 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.

Q&A

WHITE DALTON 33 Our specialist motoring solicitor Andrew Prendergast guides readers through their legal trials and troubles...

Q

I live on the outskirts of Manchester. As I had a meeting in the city centre I decided to take my moped. Approximately 30 minutes later I was flat on my back in an ambulance on the way to A&E. Some bus driver pulled out of a side road directly in front of me. I tried to go around the front of him, but lost control and then hit a lamppost. One broken leg and a missing tooth! I REALLY wish I had left the moped at home and taken the bus rather than getting hit by one! Joy. Anyway, I thought liability would be a slam dunk. However, the bus driver’s insurance company are alleging I must have been distracted because I had my headphones in. Because of this they are now saying the accident was my fault. Is this legally right? I am worried because I had my headphones in listening to my sat nav.

A

The issue of headphones is a ‘hot topic’ in the press at the moment, but I think the bus insurer is trying to pull a stunt. Firstly, it is not illegal to listen to headphones while riding. Therefore, just because you had your headphones in does not automatically mean the accident is your fault. If you were on the main road, concentrating and looking where you were going etc. and the bus driver just pulled out in front of you causing the accident, then liability should rest with them. This is irrespective of whether you had your headphones in or not.

However, as a general point, riders need to be aware that if a defendant proves a rider was distracted and not concentrating then they may be found to blame in full or in part for an accident, i.e. if the rider was listening to loud music (as this may mask other sounds), trying to read maps/sat navs etc. and not looking where they are going.

Q

I was out with by brother riding our off-road KTMs. Now, I have to admit, we were riding illegally without insurance on a path in some local woods. However, there weren’t any horses or dog walkers etc. so we thought it was safe. Anyway, next

thing my brother gets nailed by another off-road rider coming from the opposite direction. He hit him at about 40mph and put my brother into a ditch. The other chap jumped back on his bike and tore off, and so we weren’t able to get his details. My brother ended up with a fractured back, a punctured lung and has been off work for three months. Who can he sue for his injuries? A mate mentioned the Motor Insurers’ Bureau.

A

Firstly, I hope your brother makes a speedy recovery. Bikes can always be fixed but people aren’t always as lucky. As for bringing a claim, I am afraid your brother is stuffed if you do not know who caused the accident. If you knew that you could have sued the other rider directly, potentially.

As for your query regarding the Motor Insurers’ Bureau; every time a motorist pays motor insurance some of that money goes into a big pot they use to pay out to insured motorists who have had an accident with an uninsured or an untraced driver.

However, they will not pay out to people who aren’t insured at the time of the accident. Therefore, as your brother was riding illegally, the Bureau won’t help him and no one will pay him compensation for his injuries or losses.

For more info, go to:

SOLICITORS

www.whitedalton.co.uk

Save cash with Suzuki

Suzuki is giving owners the chance to save a little extra this winter with its new Winter Rewards campaign.

Running until the end of February, Suzuki owners can apply for a winter discount card to use in any participating Suzuki dealership, which will entitle them to free oil and filters worth up to £50 with every service, as well as 10% off the cost of any parts.

The card also means owners can get 20% off any ECSTAR or MOTUL oil, plus 10% off items from Suzuki’s accessories and clothing ranges, and the GEN-3 paint protection.

Guintoli is back in BSB

Sylvain Guintoli will spearhead Suzuki and Hawk Racing’s assault on the 2017 British Superbike Championship, with renowned insurance firm Bennetts renewing its association with Suzuki for a third consecutive season.

The 2014 WorldSBK champion will return to the Suzuki fold to race the all-new GSX-R1000R, after riding for the Japanese manufacturer in the British championship in 2009, when injury curtailed his title challenge.

Guintoli said: “I’m really happy to be back in British Superbikes. Even though it was short, I enjoyed my time in the series in 2009 with Suzuki.”

34 NEW RIDER

SIX

tips for choosingg the rigght winter jacket A good jacket can make all the difference in the cold stuff...

Riding in winter can be a lot of fun with quieter roads and fewer bugs landing on your visor. However, when the mercury drops and the heavens open, you’ll want to be well kitted out to battle the elements. Get it right and riding in the winter months can be a joy, get it wrong and you’ll have a perfectly rotten time on your bike. The good news is that it’s easy to prepare for the winter and, right now, the bike shops are full of cool winter kit. Here are a few tips for selecting the right jacket this winter...

SAY NO TO SOGGY BOTTOMS

The main thing to check is that your jacket and trousers are water and windproof. Many manufacturers have their own patented technologies, or use universal brands such as GoreTex. Some jackets use waterproof liners (often removable ones) to do the job, while others have the waterproof membrane incorporated to the outer fabric. The first places that will leak are the collar, cuffs and zips, so when choosing a jacket, pay special attention to these bits. If your suit is not waterproof and you want a cheaper way to keep the elements at bay, try separate waterproofs that go over your jacket and trousers.

TEXTILES OR LEATHERS?

As a rule of thumb you get better weather protection from top quality textile jackets and trousers than the leather equivalents, but leather offers better abrasion resistance. However, cheap textiles can be worse than good leathers. If you’re planning on riding your bike through the winter, high-quality water and windproof textiles might be a more suitable option than leathers. If you opt for leathers, you can always keep dry with the help of some separate waterproofs.

ZIP IT!

AND BREATHE

Many textiles are designed to be waterproof but still breathable, keeping you dry without making you sweaty. Wearing a technical shirt under the jacket will also help wick moisture off your skin, but for complete comfort make sure that the jacket is breathable.

Separate waterproofs can reverse the benefits of a breathable jacket, so ideally the jacket itself should be waterproof, too.

TURN UP THE HEAT

Staying warm on two wheels in the winter months is a tricky business. A good thermal lining in your jacket goes a long way to keeping you comfortable, but an extra jumper won’t be a bad idea either. If the thermal layer is removable you can use the same garment in the warmer months and save money by not having to purchase a separate summer jacket. If all else fails, heated vests add a lovely warm layer under your jacket, and some even come with pockets for the manufacturers’ own heated elements.

BRIGHT SPARKS

Considering how often drivers fail to see motorcyclists – even in good weather conditions – when the days are short and wet the risk is even higher. It's worth checking that your gear has bright hi-vis and reflective elements; often piping, logos or styled patches. Bright coloured hi-vis gear is great for making you more visible in daylight, and reflective patches will make you more visible in poor light. If your jacket has no hi-vis or reflective patches, there are various vests that will add a bit of sparkle and visibility to your attire.

If you buy your jacket and trousers as a set they often come with a zip to attach them together at the back. This stops the trousers sliding down, the jacket riding up and cold air coming in. Depending on the garment the zips can be just a few inches long or go round the whole waist. Check that the zip is easy to use and that there are no snags.

Some trousers also come with braces that will do the same job.

Classified FREE Selling your bike is

for private readers

For sale

ARIEL HTS Sammy Miller replica, 1957, all the trick bits, £8750. Tel. 01773 857778.

Derbys.

BAOTIAN BT-49QT-9 49cc, brilliant bright red scooter, Baotian, 2007, 1,944 miles, automatic twist and go, 10 mths’ MoT, economical, cheap tax and insurance, new rear tyre, £120 ovno. Tel. 01946 861404; 07596 168269. Cumbria.

BMW F800R 800cc, 2015, bargain, 3000 miles, dealer serviced, panniers plus loads of extras, dealer price £7000, my price £4999 Tel. 01847 851689 for more info.

Scotland.

BMW K1200RS 1200cc, first class condition, 32,300 miles, private no plate, full s/h, all MoTs, 1998, all luggage, MoT June 77, £2500. Tel. Rod 07514 405793. Cleveland.

BMW R100CS Rare, immaculate original condition, 38k, cherished no plate BEE 630W, MoT Aug 2017, £4500 ono. Tel. 07786 494524. Lincs.

BMW R100RT selling due to ill health, 1992, blue, approx 77,000 miles, MoT till June 2017, with panniers, £2600.

Tel. 07549 182059 or 01502 742351. bmwbiker1947@ gmail.com pics available Suffolk.

BMW R1100S 2002, one owner last nine years, MoT, 40,100 miles, garaged, Laser exhaust, beautiful bike, ageing owner, £3100 ono. Tel. 07967 665114.

Glasgow.

BMW R1200RT Helibar risers to fit 2014 onwards LC model, as new, boxed with removal tool and instructions, give a useful increase in rise and pull back with slightly wider bars, the best option for RT LC riders wanting a more upright riding position, £150 inc postage in UK Tel. 0776 2005828. Lincs.

BMW R45 1980, fantastic condition, just had an oil change, equipped with spotlights, screen, crash bars, twin disc brakes and a fire extinguisher, 23k, MoT June 2017, £1795 ono. Tel. 07786 494524. Lincs.

BMW R850R 2002, 33k miles, full BMW luggage, excellent tourer, nice tidy bike, £3250 ono.

Tel. 01522 686550. Lincs.

BMW K1200S 2005, 30k, cam chain mods done, ABS, ESA, h/grips, luggage, alarm, MRA screen, pilots, £3950. Tel. 07896 282012.

BSA GOLD STAR DBD 34 1956, completely rebuilt, immaculate condition, Phil Pearson elec start, £22,000. Tel. 07799 186300.

BUELL XB12X 1203cc, Ulysees, 55 reg, green metallic, black wheels, 17k, low seat, £3000 ono. Tel. 07776 463820.

Preston, Lancs.

CONDOR A580 1953, Quality Swiss military spec, nice unrestored and original condition, correct leather panniers etc, V5C and some history, reducing my collection, £5500. Tel. 07798 866071. Middx.

GILERA FUOCO 500IE 2008, low mileage 8,250 miles Fire Red, Givi tall screen, new brakes, just been serviced, new tyres, heated grips, Akraprovic exhaust (original available) in excellent used condition, power port and USB plugs for phones or sat nav, runs/rides superbly, looks fantastic. Tel. 07712 806111. Northants.

GREEVES SCOTTISH 250 alloy rims, s/ s spokes, new cables, original reg, year 1961, £2000 ono.

Tel. 01983 508230. Isle of Wight.

HARLEY 1340 EVO 1999, 15,600 genuine miles from new, the leprechaun, lots of trick bits, not a slow Harley, lots of money and time spent on this bike, I’ve had it from new and feeling very heartbroken to see it go, £10,000 ovno. Tel. 07392 365612. Wilts.

HARLEY-DAVIDSON FATBOY absolutely immac, Pacific blue pearl, 1584cc Injection, first reg 17/07/09 (private plate not inc), only 3,943 genuine miles, full s/h, serviced by Harleyworld Chesterfield less than 500 miles ago, c/w MoT, H/D optional extras inc chrome wheels, front screen, sissy bar, crash bar, passing lights, saddle bags and Vance Hines exhaust pipes (original pipes still in boxes), stunning, £11,500 ono. Tel. 07730 288165. Notts.

HARLEY-DAVIDSON FXDF Fat Bob, 2008, 18,500 dry miles, garaged, V&A short shots cruiser seat, sissy bar etc, immaculate, MoT till May 2017, not ridden since last two MoTs, £8200 ono.

Tel. 07934 652745. East Riding of Yorks.

HONDA BENLY CM200, 1980 electric starter, new tyres, spokes brakes, 20,541 miles, cap screws fitted, frame engine foot rests/brake parts, zinc plated, good condition, £400 ono.

Tel. 01902 324548. Staffs.

HONDA CBF1000 2009, A9, hugger, f/extender, h/grips, stainless exhaust system, adjustable seat and bars, MoT, only 14,250 miles, downsizing as too heavy for 74 yr old owner, £2750. Tel. 01939 260462. skyhawk59@gmail.com Shrops.

HONDA F1 750cc, 35,000 miles, top end overhauled by Honda dealer, never used through winter, dry stored, c/w Rickman accessories, all original, nine months’ MoT, £3000. Tel. 01625 500691. Cheshire.

HONDA VARADERO 125cc, 2009 model, black, taxed/ MoT, heated grips, new tyres, discs, alarm, £1600. Tel. 01670 351645. Northumberland.

HONDA FMX650 2006, 650cc, good condition, MoT May 2017, £1000 no offers Tel. 01225 743415. Wilts.

HONDA VFR800 V-TEC ABS, 2006, 47k miles, Candy red, vgc, does not relate to mileage, major valve check completed at 36k, major service just completed including oil change, air & engine filters, new alternator, rectifier & battery, £2995. Tel. 01704 573017; 07811 177659. Lancs.

SUZUKI GS500E (J), 1992, 35k, MoT Feb 17, top box, crash bars, screen, braided hoses, recent new rear tyre and DID chain/ sprockets, good runner, ready to ride, ideal first bike or commuter, £550. Tel. 07935 185718. West Yorks.

NEWHUDSON600SV600cc,1922, sidecar, 1914, rewound magneto, good tyres, gas lights, wicker basket, leather tool bags, runs well, no longer able to ride, £16,500ovno.

Tel. 01233 731048. Kent.

HONDA XL185 TRAIL Twin shock, 1981, full original V5, MoT, superb classic investment, s/s exhaust, gold silencer, restored by retiring mature Honda enthusiast, £1950. Tel. 07784 783964. Lancs.

HONDA SH300 300cc, showroom condition, combined ABS, serviced fuel injection, 4100 miles, 2008, £2800. Tel. 02084 028557. Kent.

HONDA TL125 Trail bike, 1976, no lights, otherwise complete, runs, in need of make over, no documents, £825. Tel. 01295 722767. Oxfordshire.

KAWASAKI ER250 Scorpion 1988, 28,500 miles, currently Sorned, new battery, £595. Tel. 07974 034314. Durham.

KAWASAKI Z750 LAF 2011, orange, full s/h, spare keys, receipts, one owner from new, £3575. Tel. Debbie 07901 564460. Worcs.

KAWASAKI ZXR400 398cc, 18,500 miles, 1989, lots of new parts, bills, little use, owned last 20 years, £800 ono. Tel. 01543 322827. Staffs.

KAWASAKI ER6 2012 onwards, 30 ltr top box, with Candy green inlay, plus bike support bracket, £140. Tel. 07907 298888. Essex.

KAWASAKI Z440 440cc, MoT, 1982, all original, new tyres, blue, 27k miles, 2 cylinder, new battery, £1300. Tel. 07796 164348. Norfolk.

KAWASAKI ZZR600D complete plastic bodywork, front guard, fuel tank and stainless steel exhaust, plus 2 Viper aluminium silencers with link pipes, Haynes manual, £225. ovno; 2 Fireblade manuals, £8 each. Tel. 07758 515696. Lincs.

MV AGUSTA BRUTALE DRAGSTER 800cc, 2014, crash protectors, adjustable levers, Biketrac fitted, MV service and delivery inc, POA. Tel. 07736 804948 eves. Wilts.

NINJA 250R 2009, black, 5,853 miles, mint condition, well looked after, MoT til Oct 2017, fun and cheap to run, £2100. Tel. 07834 318055. Gtr London.

ROYAL ENFIELD Continental GT, 535cc, immac, as new, unmarked cond, only 500 dry summer miles, running in by mature owner, finished in red the best colour for Pukka Cafe Racer, £3995. Tel. 01763 272339; 07905 184644.

SUZUKI GS500EW 1997, ideal first bike or commuter bike, behaves and rides beautifully, no smoke, knocks or rattles, 11 months MoT, reason for the sale now ready for something bigger! £800 ono. Tel. 07746 202181.

Hants.

SUZUKI GSX1250FA Sports Tourer, 2011/61, 10,750 miles only, one previous owner, fsh, years MoT, all keys, security tag, hand and service book intact, ABS,full Givi luggage, monokey system, including spare luggage keys, 500m only on new tyres, outstanding condition, £4600. Tel. 07775 680094. Essex.

Choose one of the following methods:

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

SUZUKI DRZ 400 Street Scrambler, 2001, loads of new and replacement parts, MoT, full service, £1950. Tel. 07890 468252. Gtr Man.

SUZUKI SV650A SK5 05 reg, Sporty, red, low mileage, with service history, super condition Tel. 01543 466416. West Midlands.

SUZUKI GSX1400 K7 Final Edition 2007, street bike, Renthal bars, Oxford heated grips, polished engine covers, twin rear lights, MoT Feb 17, GRFS, £4000. Tel. 07803 010028.

Cambs.

SUZUKI SV650S 649cc, 2016, 3000 dry miles, full Suzuki s/h, black, with two years warranty, as new condition, garaged, includes race can, reluctant sale due to back problems, £3695 ono; no finance. Tel. 07973 152196. Cheshire.

SUZUKI GT185 11 months’ MoT, historic tax, good condition, reg valued at £400, to view £2150.

Tel. 07816 362374 for more info. Glos.

SUZUKI BANDIT 600cc, MoT June 2017, Renthal bars, fair condition, 1995 in red, £1250 ono. Tel. 07769 848510. North Wales.

SUZUKI BANDIT 1250 screen, unmarked, £20 ono. Tel. 078940 78815.

SUZUKI VZR INTRUDER 1800 spiked typhoon air filter kit, £185 ono. Tel. 0789 4078815. Notts.

CLASSIFIEDS

Subscribe to Motor Cycle Monthly: www.classicmagazines.co.uk/MCM or call 01507 529529 VELOCETTE LE 200cc, 1964, MoT, good condition, reliable engine, refurbished, ride away, £1995. Tel. 07702 192008.

Suffolk.

TRIUMPH SPRINT ST 1050 good tyres, lovely condition, serviced, 23,000 miles, tail tidy, first to see will buy, £2650 ono. Tel. 01530 244450. Markfield, Leics.

YAMAHA DT125 Needs full restoration, 1976, V5, in my name, £650. Tel. 01293 410976. Surrey.

YAMAHA YQ Aerox 100cc x two for project, partially stripped Tel. 01223 863160. Cambs.

YAMAHA DRAGSTAR 1100 swing arm, rust treated and repainted in hammerite and mono shock absorber, £75. Tel. Bob 07599 896631. Cheshire. crewztheviewz@hotmail.co.uk YAMAHA FJR1300 silver, 2002, 76,000 mles, just had its third major service at FJOC, owned by me 10 years plus, now too heavy for owner, £2500. Tel. 07527 803509. Shrops.

Parts for sale TRIUMPH SPRINT ST1050 2010, red, 52k, good cond, Cat D, frame and engine repainted, D&D exhaust, remapped, good tyres plus more, MoT, £2500 ono. Tel. 01553 767904. Norfolk.

TRIUMPH THRUXTON 900 One off 8 Ball Special created by Triumph, fly screen, tail-piece, full Arrow system, 11,500 miles, reg Nov 2016, £6000 no offers.

Tel. 07570 220137. Leics.

TRIUMPH TIGER 955I 07, only 8k miles, silver with matching Triumph panniers, heated grips, nearly new tyres, £3800. Tel. 01460 221013. Somerset.

TRIUMPH DAYTONA 955I 2005, full s/hy, Power Commander, fuel injection data tool alarm, 14k miles, exc cond, £2900. Tel. 07999 719546. W Mids.

TRIUMPH DAYTONA 955I 1999, MoT, serviced, Scottoiler factory alarm, data tagged, all original spec, future collector’s bike, view anytime, £1950ono.Tel.07932717593.Leics.

TRIUMPH SPEED TRIPLE 900cc, Mk 1, great condition, MoT, new brakes, new chain, lovely bike to ride, 31k miles, in black, this is a British classic for only £3495.

Tel. 07740 950074. Kent.

TRIUMPH SPRINT 955I 2001, vgc, standard bike, top box, new chain and sprockets, MoT July 2017, 38k, £1595. Tel. 01452 731360. Glos.

TRIUMPH TIGER CUB 199cc, original bike, £1850; also Triumph 199cc Bantam Cub, V5C, nice bike, £1995; swap both for bigger British bike. Tel. 07743 370641. Staffs.

TRIUMPH ROCKET III 2300cc Classic, 2009, red/white, 6,000 miles, sissy bar, back rest, main stand, alarm, heated grips, crash bars, s/h, MoT, 23/6/16, both tyres good, immaculate condition, £7250 ono. Tel. 07933 726295. Cheltenham.

YAMAHA FAZER 600FZ 6 2 2007, blue, serviced, MoT, 14,300 miles, Givi rack/box, £2400. Tel. 07474 262202. Glam.

YAMAHA MT-09 ABS, 2014, purple, full Akropovic exhaust, Yamaha fly screen, comfort seat, rad guards, chain cover, stainless mesh covers, R&G tail tidy, R&G rad grill, Maxton rear shock, Gillies levers, paddock bobbins, f/r axle protectors, Gillies titanium locking axle nut, new f/r tyres, year’s MoT, beautiful cond, mature owner, 8,600 dry miles, £5800 ono. Tel. 07813 108139. Tyne & Wear.

YAMAHAXS7501978Special,new carburettor jets, clutch, oil pump, battery and seat recovered, MoT Oct 2017, £1600 ono. Tel. 01366 51327. Norfolk.

YAMAHA XS750 SPECIAL 1978, new carburettor jets, clutch, oil pump battery and seat recovered, MoT Oct 2017, £1600 ono. Tel. 01366 51327. Norfolk.

COMPLETE JAWA 638/640 ENGINE Includes two new over-sized piston sets, rebore, vapour blasted crankcases, sand blasted barrels/heads, new main bearings and one gearbox bearing fitted and complete gasket/seal set., crankshaft also looks ok but untested, engine needs reassembly, £200. Tel. 07884 435773. Northants.

DUCATI MONSTER rear hugger and side panels, early models, good condition, £30. Tel. 0151 5319213. Merseyside.

HARLEY DYNA Sundowner seat, brand new, £250; ladies leather jacket, size 10-12, and black denim jacket, size 12, both Harley jackets, £150 and £50, all like new. Tel. 07765 353609.

Beds.

HEADLIGHT AND FAIRING, light colour, for Suzuki Bandit 1250, 2009 reg. Tel. 07779 101034.

Bucks.

HONDA BROS seat, nicely recovered, good condition, buyer collects will email photo if required, £18. Tel. 07880 645970. Berks.

HONDA CB500X 2013, parts, c/stand, £40; hugger, £40; loud can, £80; small Honda top box, £30; buyer to collect after 6pm.

Tel. 01827 717982. Warks.

HONDA NS400R tuned barrels, std heads, £500; std exhaust, £50; two gutted, £60; seat cowl, £40; fork leg covers, £40; rev speedo, temps, £50; left fork, £70; tool box, £10. Tel. 01283 509381. Staffs.

HONDA PAN EUROPEAN 1100cc, two rear exhaust silencers, genuine Honda part, very good condition, no rust, £250. Tel. Pete 07973 438305.

Stamford.

JAWA 350 MODEL 638/640 12v, brand-new, Polish made crankshaft, £80. Tel. 07884 435773. Northants.

KAWASAKI VERSYS 650cc, gel seat, unused, cost £300 accept £150 ono.

Tel.07758640296.Essex.

KAWASAKI ZX-6R ENGINE with starter motor, cylinder head overhauled, ports and combustion chambers cleaned out, valves reground and reshimmed to within tolerances, £275. Tel. 0151 6069983. Wirral.

KAWASAKI ZX-6R F1 ENGINE with starter motor, cylinder head overhauled, ports and combustion chambers cleaned out, valves reground and reshimmed to within tolerances, £275. Tel. 0151 6069983. Wirral, Cheshire.

LOTS OF GL1200 SPARES Vetter Windjammer fairing, all fittings, £100; Bulldog Givi rack, mint, £50; CBF1000 front mudguard, £40; Thunderbird, Legend, Adventurer chainguard, mint, £20; CBF1000 tank cover, £40.

Tel. 07434 513161. Lancs.

MOPED TYRES two 2.00 x 17, new (not old stock), quality tyres and tubes, £40; Honda C50 parts, excellent condition, £40.

Tel. 01293 410976. Surrey.

MOTO GUZZI PARTS: V50 speedo, rev counter, headlamp, mudguards, petrol tank, also Nuovo parts: muguards, tool boxes, headlamp, fork shouds, main stand, also Triumph 5TA frame (re-enamelled), ex pipes/silencers (new). Wanted Triumphpre-unit(50s)anycondition.

Tel. 01978 842668. Clwyd.

MOTORCYCLE PIECES includes panniers (British), Tri-point windscreen, BSA crankshaft, flywheels and big end bearing, carburettors and pieces, and lots of useful pieces, mainly BSA, handlebar levers and switches, buyer collects.

Tel. 01480 469554. Cambs.

NORTON COMMANDO 750cc, oil tank, sell or swap for chronometric speedo or rev counter, any condition, can email pics of tank Tel. 01626 369407; 07751 314562. Devon.

ROYALENFIELDBULLETworkshop manual, (Watsonian) 2004, £10.

Primary chaincase cover, £20.

Suzuki 7” TLS front hub, brake, no levers, £30. British M/cycles since 1950, Vol 4, £20; Vol 2, £10. Tel. 01524 427818. Lancs.

SCORPION RED POWER Serket parallel carbon endcan and link pipe to fit Suzuki GSX1250FA, GSF1250 2007 on GSF650 07/09, £180. Triumph Tiger 1050 standard silencer, £20.

Standard screen, £20, Triumph Thunderbird, winter screen, £30. Tel. 01642 280530; 07816 340143. N Yorks.

SUZUKI BANDIT 1250 aluminium chainguard, £15 ono; Suzuki VZR Intruder 1800, spiked typhoon air filter kit, £200 ono; Suzuki Bandit 1250 screen, unmarked, £20 ono.

Tel. 078940 78815. Notts.

SUZUKI BANDIT 1250 aluminium chainguard,£15 ono; Suzuki VZR Intruder 1800 spiked typhoon air filter kit, £200 ono; Suzuki Bandit 1250 screen, unmarked, £20 ono.

Tel. 078940 78815. Notts.

SUZUKI BANDIT 1250 aluminium chain guard, £15 ono.

Tel. 0789 4078815.

SUZUKI BANDIT 600 2002, after market silencer can and intermediate pipe with support bracket, no dent or scratches, £50 ono. Tel. 07799 220513; 01438 871619. Herts.

SUZUKI HAYABUSA lo, pair exhaust pipes, windshield & black/silver Hayabusa leather jacket, large, £150 the lot. Suzuki Bandit 1250 exhaust and hugger black, £50 the lot. Tel. 07801 298132. Dumfries.

SUZUKI T200 RACE 200cc, race engine rebuilt, crank Fahron heads barrels, new pattern clutch basket, £1000. Tel. 07835 188469. Staffs.

TRIUMPH 5TA FRAME reenamelled, £250. Silencers (new), £80. Tank badges, £80.

Front wheel, £40. Wanted looking for real rough basket case Triumph pre-unit, T100 or Trophy (1950s) incomplete etc Tel. 01978 842668.

TRIUMPH AMERICA 865cc freeflow exhausts long, rear rack backrest x two Tel. 01223 863160. Cambs.

TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE locking petrol cap, as new, with 2 keys, £30 plus free p&p. Tel. 0151 5319213. Merseyside.

TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE ignition switch, relocation kit for left side of machine, £10 plus free p&p.

Tel. 0151 5319213. Merseyside.

TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE 865 rear extended bolts for seat removal, made of polished alloy, £8 plus free p&p. Tel. 01515319213.Merseyside.

TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE 865 alloy engine, oil filler cap, with hexagon spanner top, £10 plus free p&p. Tel. 0151 5319213. Merseyside.

TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE T100 PARTS K&Q seat, £30; Hagon front fork springs, £20; rear carrier, £30; bar raisers, £20; custom screen, £30; Hawk cushion air seat, £20; locking petrol cap, £10; fly screen, £10; clock, £5, all in good condition.

Tel. 07769 954456. W Mids.

TRIUMPH Q/D rear hub/drum, almost complete, £50; front lower mudguard stay/stand, £30; B25 chrome front mudguard and bracket, poor, £20; Tiger Cub silencer, unused, after market, £45. Tel. 01293 410976.

Gatwick.

TRIUMPH SPEED TWIN PROJECT 1956, no reg, £2250; 1954 6T B/B engine, rebuilt, £850; P/unit 500 barrels, £10; 650 P/unit alloy head, needs repair, £20; 350 unit tappet block, £7; O/pump, £10. Tel. 01524 427818. Lancs.

TRIUMPH TIGER EXPLORER 2012/15 Scorpion red power Serket parallel carbon silencer and link pipe, £180; genuine Triumph tall screen, £50; short Powerbronze screen tinted red, £25; screen adaptor kit, multiple adjustments, £50. Tel. 01642 280530; 07816 340143.

N Yorks.

TRIUMPH/BSA external spring forks, complete, £120; 7” T/L shoe wheel to suit, £95; B25 oil tank, £20; 3/STA reinforced fuel tank, clean, plus badges, £120. Tel. 01293 410976.

Gatwick.

YAMAHA VIRAGO 535 brand new, brake cable also new rear wheel brake linings, £15. Tel. 01933 430063; 07982 487505.

Northants.

YAMAHA XJR1300 07 on fuel, stainless round midi silencer, £50. Hagon progressive fork springs, £30. K&N air filter, £15.

Triumph 16/1700cc Thunderbird tall winter screen (Blade only), £30, fits on shorter version mountings Tel. 01642 280530; 07816 340143. N Yorks.

Wanted ANY CLASSIC MOTORCYCLE WANTED in any condition from a basketcase to one in nice condition, cash waiting. Tel. 07811 189755. Staffs.

EXCHANGE WANTED for 250CB Honda Nighthawk, MoT 12 months, good condition, wanted 500cc Ind Enfield or any 500cc single. Tel. Barry 01527 836644.

Worcs.

HONDA CBR 1991, 600cc, parts wanted, rear no plate/mudguard assy Tel. 01325 333870.

Durham.

HONDA ST1100 1100cc, Pan Euro (wanted workshop manual), also (rider manual), supp/as with new bikes. Tel. 07858 450960.

Scotland.

37 ACCESSORIES

BRAKE HOSES

CHROMING

ACCOMMODATION/TOURING EATING OUT

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES MOTORCYCLE SEATS

EVENTS

MOT AND SERVICING

PAINTWORK

EXHAUSTS

OFF ROAD

38 PARTS AND SPARES

TRACKDAYS/RACE SCHOOLS

TOURING

PLASTIC REPAIRS TRAILERS

TYRES SPEEDOMETERS/COMPUTERS

WEB WATCH SERVICES

TRAINING COURSES

WEB WATCH

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