Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
THE
PASSION
vin
ll Colv
o: Russe
@motulaus
190283
/MotulAU
RENNIE WINS! SCAYSBROOK CON
If you can’t
beat ’em...
H-D jump
the Chines
nakedbike
bandwago
Vol 69 No 01
4-17 July, 2019
$8.95 | NZ $9.95
THE UGLY
TRUTH OF
WHO’S AT
FAULT ON
OUR ROADS
INSIDE
ND&DEFE
ASBK champ Troy Herfo
hopes and toughest riva
IG STICK!
ow Metzeler is changing
the cruiser tyre game
Every Second
PLUS WIN
AN INDIAN SCOUT
MOTORCYCLE
Shannons are offering motoring enthusiasts the chance to win a 14-day trip for two to the
‘Greatest Spectacle in Racing’ – the 2020 Indianapolis 500. Plus, visit New York, Chicago,
Nashville and several of the USA’s unique automotive museums and exclusive collections.
The winner will also receive a new 2019 Indian Scout Motorcycle.
Total prize pool valued at approx. AUD $50,398.45 (depending on major prize winner’s point of departure, Shannons Club Membership and on road costs which differ nationally). Prizes drawn at 12pm on 20/8/19 at Engage Australia, Level
8, 56 Clarence Street, Sydney, NSW 2000. The winners will be notified by phone and email by 22/8/19 and published in The Australian newspaper on 30/8/19 and on the competition website on 23/08/19. Bike for illustrative purposes
only. *Apply for and receive a new Shannons Motor Insurance Policy quote (excludes CTP insurance) (“Motor Policy”) or a new Shannons Home & Contents Insurance Policy quote (includes building only, contents only or building and
contents cover) (“Home Policy”) during the Entry Period. Limit 1 quote per vehicle or insured address. **Purchase a new Motor Policy (excludes existing Motor Policy renewals) during the Entry Period. +Purchase a new Home Policy OR
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tents
4-17 JULY 2019/ VOL 69/ № 1
Ridden/Tested
42 Cross Roads
Moto Morini gets serious with the Milano
36
68 Back-to-Back (on track)
Taking H-D’s Softails onto a racetrack? Yes. Please
Features
50 The C Word
No one likes crashing a motorbike. But how much it
happens – and why– is changing. We investigate
58 Framed!
Two MotoGP chassis experts detail how frame
design has changed over the last 30 years
74 Cruise Control
If you’d like a bit more Sportsbike in your Cruiser or
Roadster, Metzeler might just have your next tyres
Sport
Cover story
The C Word
It’s a dirty word, but a deed most of us will do. AMCN
looks at why we crash, what is being done about it
and why an attitude change might just save your life
74
R ENN
IE W I
N S! S
CAYSB
R OO
H-D
the Cj
Vol 69
No
4-17 July 01
,
$8.95 | 2019
NZ $9.95 n a ke
ba nd db
w
F
OU
amcn.com.au
Regulars
42
ed’s desk
SAM MACLACHLAN
EDITORIAL
Crash barrier
Editor: Sam Maclachlan
Deputy Editor: Kel Buckley
Sub Editor: Phil Branagan
News Editor: Hamish Cooper
Staff Writer: Pete Vorst
THE NOISE. THE SHOCK of realising it’s definitely going to happen. Staff Writer: Zane Dobie
Founding Editor: George Lynn
The pain of it happening. Sky, earth, sky, earth. Then the world DESIGN
stops moving, your mind settles. And the pain kicks in. Crashing Art Director: Paul Andrews
Designer: Joe Ferrara
sucks. We don’t use the C Word much in AMCN, when related to CONTRIBUTORS
EUROPE: Sir Alan Cathcart, Michael Scott,
roadbike crashes, but it’s the bloated elephant in the room. Ben Purvis, Colin Young, Mat Oxley,
It doesn’t just suck for the crashee, either. Family, friends, Gold & Goose, Gordon Ritchie, Paul Young
AND NOT FORGETTING
emergency workers, witnesses – it sucks for them, too. Peter Whitaker, Tim Munro, Don Cox,
Darryl Flack, Neil Spalding, Simon O’Leary,
Crashing sucks to different levels, sure – a slow dirtbike crash Peter Baker, Josh Evans, Phillip Tooth, Dean Mellor,
Terry Stevenson & Rob Blackbourn
is different to messing up a fourth gear road corner, PRODUCTION
before joining the scenery at speed – but they Production Manager: Ian Scott
Advertising Co-ordinator: Yang Zhou
S am
Material contained in AMCN is protected under the Commonwealth
Because, as we know, crashing sucks. Copyright Act 1968 and may not be reproduced in part or whole without
written consent from the copyright holders.
PRIVACY NOTICE
This issue of AMCN is published by Citrus Media (CM).
CM may use and disclose your information in accordance with our
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Officer, Citrus Media, PO Box 20154, World Square, NSW, 2002
NOO MATTER THE SEASON.
SEASON NO MATTER THE WEATHER.
WITH
ROADTEC
R OADTE C ™ 01
ROADTEC ™ 01 IS THE NEW SPORT TOURING RADIAL TYRE OF THE METZELER FAMILY.
WITH GREAT GRIP ON ALL SURFACES AND INCREDIBLE MILEAGE ,
ROADTEC ™ 01 WILL BE THE OFFICIAL PARTNER OF EVERY JOURNEY WITH YOUR MOTORCYCLE.
FROM COMMUTING TO LONG DISTANCE.
MET ZE LE R.C OM
Beemer’s
How it is done Old but new
Battery packs can be made BMW gives us our first physical
in many shapes, so BMW has look at the carbon-fibre system
big electric
sculpted the Vision DC Roadster’s it patented a couple of years
to take the place that would ago. While developing the
normally be fi lled by a Boxer twin carbon frame for the HP4 Race,
on a traditional bike bearing the BMW also patented the idea of
Boxer
firm’s badge. Like an engine, using extruded carbon tubes
the battery pack needs cooling, connected by aluminium
so it’s covered in fi ns and gains brackets to create a trellis-
two external coolers – each with style chassis. That supports
a fan. With one cooler bolted to the Vision DC Roadster’s seat
each side of the bike, the eff ect is unit. Familiar elements, such
AL SO I N T H I S I S S U E T E CH
A LITTLE BIT
OF ROYALTY
Living with Royal Enfield’s Continental
34 →
WHEN SCIENCE
MEETS RACING
Inside MotoGP’s chassis development
58 →
Big plans
unveiled
the kn
IT HAPPENED SINCE LAST I
China
on the
rise
CHINA HAS BECOME a hotbed of
motorcycle development. Leading
manufacturers, including Zongshen,
CFMoto and Qianjiang, are increasingly
producing convincing models.
As well, Chinese companies are
doing joint-venture deals with famous
brands, such as Harley-Davidson and
Norton, to leverage kudos in an ever
more crowded market.
BEN PURVIS &
HAMISH COOPER
Will a Chinese-built
commuter bike be a big
seller for H-D?
Adventure
(in)bound!
AMCN'S HUGELY POPULAR annual
Adventure issue is going ahead for 2019
and we can’t wait. Normally slated for the
first issue at the turn of a new volume, the
special issue will this year fall in Vol 69
No 03, on sale Thursday 1 August.
As well as all the regular features and
news that makes us Australia’s number-
one motorcycle publication, the 2019
Adventure Issue will cover everything
from riding advice, tests of significant new
adventure models, a list of AMCN staff and
contributor’s most memorable riding roads
as well as a whole swag of inspirational and
informative content to go with it!
14 amcn.com.au
CFMoto 700X scooped with a stubby tail and a headlight tucked in
AFTER CHURNING OUT bikes based on its close to the fork. The short exhaust gives
Kawasaki-alike 650cc parallel twin for the a modern look, as does the swingarm-
best part of a decade, CFMoto is preparing mounted licence plate bracket.
an almost entirely new 700cc machine. While the capacity increase to 700cc may
These design images prove it needs to be add a little power compared to the 45kW of
taken very seriously by mainstream rivals. the current 650NK, the change could also
The number ‘700’ embossed into the left ff
be an effort to address upcoming uro
hand engine cover leaves little doubt that emissions rules. It may also be a response
capacity is up around 50cc from the current to the knowledge that rival Chinese fi rm
649.3cc, although the general layout of Zongshen is planning to reveal its own 650cc
the parallel twin remains unchanged. The parallel twin later this year based on an
clutch cover bears an ‘X’ logo, suggesting engine design licenced from Norton.
that the bike will be called the 700X. Although we’ve only seen the design for
The chassis is an all-new steel tube design this new nakedbike using the 700cc engine,
with an attractively sculpted aluminium we know that CFMoto is developing further
swingarm. An upside-down front fork has a models. Internally, this bike is referred to
single radial-mount brake caliper. There’s a as the “CF700-2”, suggesting that it’s the
hint of Ducati Diavel in the neo-retro styling, X marks the spot for CFMoto second of a range of “CF700” designs. BP
Qianjiang will
Zongshen retro twin leak produce a little bit of
Milwaukee in China
ZONGSHEN IS PLANNING a flat-track late 2018, we expect that this new retro
style retro with an upside-down fork model will appear at shows towards
and cast alloy wheels. the end of 2019 and go on sale in 2020.
It looks to be powered by Zongshen’s Zongshen is also well underway
380cc parallel twin engine, already with a range of 650cc parallel twin
available in its RX3S adventure bike models using the same engine as
and the new-for-2019 RZ3S roadster. Norton’s Atlas and Superlight models,
With four valves per cylinder and which will be built under licence in
a claimed 27kW at 9000rpm, its China. These could catapult Zongshen
performance is about what you’d on to the international stage as a
expect from its capacity and layout. serious rival for CFMoto, not to mention
Given that we caught sight of the taking on Japanese twins such as
RZ3S patents around this time last Suzuki’s SV650, Kawasaki’s Z650 and
year and it was officially revealed in Yamaha’s MT-07. BP
Rally-up!
There’s a lot more
‘Dakar’ and less ‘Rose
Bay’ in KTM’s 790
Adventure R Rally
PLENTY OF ADVENTURE bikes never stray anywhere off
the asphalt but the 500 buyers of KTM’s limited-edition 790
Adventure R Rally are likely to use them exactly as intended.
The most extreme version of KTM’s mid-sized adventure
model yet, the 790 Adventure R Rally shares the same
frame and engine as the stock 790 Adventure, but adds far
higher-spec suspension to boost its off-road credentials.
The WP XPlor Pro 7548s fork uses ‘cone valves’ claimed
to offer a wider range of adjustment, as well as having
‘unlimited’ opening to reduce harshness. The rear shock
is an Xplor Pro 6746, also claimed to offer a ‘significant
increase in damping performance’.
All this adds 30mm to the ride height and the suspension
travel, increasing off-road capability but pushing the
seat up to a massive 910mm, compared to 880mm on the
Adventure R and 830mm for the 790 Adventure.
A weight-saving Akrapovic exhaust, KTM’s Quickshifter+,
as well as narrower wheel rims and tubed tyres sharpen off-
road performance even more. BP
Twenty years ago this month Randy
the
Did Mamola set the still-standing record of
you
know? → youngest rider on the GP podium. He
You did not! finished second in the 500cc Finland
round aged 19 years and 260 days.
b ieffs
briefs
21
YOUR QUICK FIX
CLASS ACT
Supercross/motocross legend Chad
Proud Stroud
Jacob Stroud, son of nine-
Reed will race a Lamborghini in time NZ Superbike champ
two rounds of the US one-marque Andrew, will race in four
championship. rounds of MotoAmerica’s
Junior Cup series starting
That’s the percentage at Sonoma on August 10.
motorcyclists make up of all road-
related accident victims taken to Trauma
hospital emergency departments.
training
Find out why we’re crashing from page 50 Tassie group First Aid For
Motorcyclists is offering
an accident management
“Was I
course on 13 July at Ross
Town Hall.
riding
bad? Was
it the New kid on the block Hot & Not
bike?”
After 12 Moto2 and Moto3 victories, 2019
MotoGP debutant Miguel Oliveira joins local AMCN’S
Portuguese learner riders to get his road THERMOMETER
bike licence.
Defending ASBK Superbike
champion Penrite Honda’s Troy
Herfoss talks exclusively to AMCN INDIAN POW-WOW
More than 60 Indian
about his disastrous first round at
Phillip Island. riders from around
Australia led the
Exclusive
c us e interview
te e stastarts
ts oon page 882 recent Cooly Rocks Those
On custom car fest
parade, followed
bastards
UK motorcycle thieves
by a gaggle of tiny
are taunting owners with
Goggomobiles.
Instagram photos of bikes
Gee-oh…
they claim they have
“repossessed”.
CHRISTMAS What a
Charley
INJULY
After 27 years of racing
motorcycles ASBK Kawasaki
Blabber-mouth Charley
Boorman boasts he and
Ewan McGregor will film
Long Way Up (South
America). Then it all goes
quiet as nothing’s been
BCperformance rider Bryan
finalised.
Staring gets his first street
bike. “Do the motorcycling
circles have a cafe culture like
cycling?” he asks.
16 amcn.com.au
Scaysbrook was running
his dad’s #34 race
the kno
number, instead of
his tradional #33
Rennie
tames
America’s
Mountain
Ex-AMCN staffer finally conquers Pikes Peak!
AFTER THREE SUCCESSIVE “To be perfectly honest, it
podiums every year since didn’t feel that good. I blew at
2016, Australia’s Rennie least three of those hairpins –
Scaysbrook has won the 97th one, I nearly hit the same wall
running of the Pikes Peak that I did in 2016 and I thought,
International Hill Climb, ‘nah, I’m not doing it again!’
setting a new motorcycle It felt good, it felt smooth and for Rennie and his record- and 2017 the year he was
record in the process. the last three miles I thought, breaking run, the tragic news born – he was one week old
Riding a factory-supported ‘just survive it’, cos it’s so wasn’t confirmed until much when I came here for the 2017
Aprilia Tuono, the ex-AMCN rough and crappy.” later on race day, well after race, so I can’t wait to get
staffer claimed the win in the The race claimed the the motorcycle category was home and give him a cuddle
heavyweight division with a life of Pikes Peak legend run and won. and give Annabelle, my wife,
stunning run up the 156-turn Carlin Dunne, who set off Pointing to his custom- a kiss.”
hill climb in 9m44.963sec. before Scaysbrook. Riding painted Pikes Peak helmet See next issue for a full
“That was the most intense the prototype Ducati V4 after his run, Rennie said, feature in Rennie’s own
10 minutes of my entire life,” Streetfighter, the four-time “Boxing kangaroo, Renski words on the up and down
the Aussie said, out of breath Pikes Peak winner crashed down the side, HJS 2017 for fortnight that was this year’s
in the thin air on 14,000-feet in the final sector of the Harvey James Scaysbrook – Pikes Peak International Hill
Pikes Peak summit. 19.99km course. Thankfully that’s my little boy at home, Climb. KELLIE BUCKLEY
18 amcn.com.au
TOTALLY
UNEXPECTED.
TOTALLY
UNRIVALLED.
It’s the ride. It’s the feeling. It’s a new level of handling of our re-engineered chassis,
and performance of the Milwaukee-Eight® engine that will leave your preconceptions
in the dirt. Whatever you ride, however you ride it, there’s a Softail® model that will
rip up and blow away everything you thought you knew about riding a motorcycle.
©2019 H-D OR ITS AFFILIATES. HARLEY-DAVIDSON, HARLEY, H-D, AND THE BAR AND SHIELD LOGO ARE AMONG THE TRADEMARKS OF H-D U.S.A., LLC. SELECTION VARIES BY DEALERSHIP.
the
Headcheck
The year wa
News
No, this is not a render you
are looking at. It’s the Egli Red
Shark, with a turbocharged
1325cc Kawasaki in-line four
pushing it to a claimed top
speed of 427km/h. Also fitted
with nitrous-oxide, it was set
to break three speed records;
the 1km flying start, the 10km
standing start and the 100km
standing start.
Sport
Daryl Beattie was signed to
race the HRC Formula One
RVF750 in the All-Japan
Formula One Championship
for 1991. Although the
contract did not include any
world championship grands
prix, there was a clause to
allow 20-year-old Beattie to
contest additional events, at
the discretion of HRC.
Bike test
It’s a rare thing to say that AMCN Vol 40 NO 12 “Myy bike racing g contract
one motorcycle changed the 104 pages, $3.95 expires at the end of
He
course of racing, but this one On sale
did. Alan Cathcart rode what next year and this is
9 Nov - 22, 1990
he dubbed “the first superbike”, Editor: Ken Wootton said certainly something I’d
like to look at ”
that?
the Honda CR750. Its 737.4cc
in-line four put out 66.1kW,
and Dick Mann rode it to win COVER Wayne Gardner got a taste for four-
wheeled action in the Formula Holden,
Motorcycle racing at its
the 1970 Daytona 200, sending
finest, with enough sport and ended up jumping in the driver’s seat
Honda sales skyrocketing.
news to fill an entire issue. for a few years down the track.
ERA AD
PICS OF THE ISSUE Towards the end of the 80s
and the start of the 90s was
1 2 1. Wayne
Gardner tried when Australia was really
his hand at starting to crack down on
some four- drink driving.
wheeled racing
in the Formula
Holden class.
2. Australians
got their first
peek at the
much -hyped
Ducati 907IE
on display at
the Sydney
Motor Show.
20 amcn.com.au
DUCATI 2018 RUN OUT
ducati.com.au
950
Your extraordinary journey
Red
White
797
Red
Terms and conditions apply. Available while stocks last on 2018 model motorcycles purchased through authorised Ducati dealerships Australia wide.
Contact your nearest Ducati dealer. Visit ducati.com.au
TRP DC0309
Main. At 63, Garry Connell set a new record for the Canning 1. Connell’s Husky, with extra lights 2. His single
stop at Savoury Creek was well-planned, and brief 3. The first beer at the Wiluna pub would have tasted good...
the
w
He did what?
WORDS PETER WHITAKER
Canning Stunt
West Aussie reclaims Billiluna to Wiluna speed record
SIXTY YEARS HAVE Andreas on a BMW R 80 GS as was tie wire and whittled BMW R 1200 GS down the
passed since the last mob of and Fred on a R 80/7 roadbike, mulga to support the frames. famous track.
Kimberley cattle were driven modified with a 21-inch front Durba Springs oasis And while there are no
south along West Australia’s wheel and suspension from a provided some much-needed records of a Honda Goldwing
Canning Stock Route, an dead Suzuki RM250. respite before they took on making the journey it became
odyssey only made possible Both carried 80 litres of the easiest sections of their obvious that provided proper
by water drawn from the 48 fuel plus 15 litres of water odyssey to the final day, which planning was in place,
wells constructed by Alfred in addition to swags, food, saw them proudly elbow their anything was possible.
Canning in 1908. cooking utensils and a heavy way to the bar at the Wiluna Unremarkably dirtshifters’
Establishing an abattoir radio transceiver, plus all the Club Hotel for a celebratory attention then focussed on
at Wyndham rendered necessary tools to round out beer or two. Despite the who could set the quickest
the Canning Stock Route the kit. sceptics, despite 10 days of time for the journey.
redundant, the track falling With daytime temperatures truly hard yakka and despite Scott Britnell may not
into disuse, the wells into of 40°C, the lads were avoiding a potential disaster, have been aware of his
disrepair. It was inevitable surviving on less than three Fred and Andreas Powell had predecessors’ exploits,
someone would attempt to litres of water a day. In place proven the Canning could be however he was aware
motor down the track and, a of power supplements, the conquered on two wheels. the Canning Stock Route
decade after the final cattle polluted water was often Since the Powell’s is acknowledged as
drive, a pair of short-wheelbase strained through their remarkable achievement Australia’s most remote
Landies were successful. tee shirts to provide the there have been scores of public thoroughfare. And
And just as inevitably the necessary nutrients. They successful, unsupported two- undoubtedly the toughest.
two-wheeled fraternity were calculated their speed at less wheeled attempts, from the Having established
quickly on the scene. than 20km/h and considered trio of 250cc trailies ridden a new record for the
Local lads Andreas and the sixth day a ripper when by Mac McCulloch, Terry transcontinental crossing
Fred Powell were the first to they managed 180km. Araldite Monckton and Dave Rose to from Cape Byron to Steep
take on the challenge of an – the do-it-all repair kit of the the time veteran adventurer Point, it seemed only natural
unsupported ride in 1983, era – was in constant demand, Tony Kirby manhandled a that Scotty, 38, would turn his
22 amcn.com.au
RACING
AND STREET
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May 2015 Britnell made his May 14, he left at sparrow’s.
claim, riding the 1650km from “The first day and I
Wiluna, north to Billiluna in
less than 48 hours.
was ahead of schedule by
sundown,” said Garry.
DENMARK
Few riders were more “With darkness the
interested in Scotty’s record pace dropped more than
than 63-year-old Garry I anticipated. And after a
Connell, a sandgroper with midnight refuel and a feed,
a serious addiction to cross- plus a second 45-minute kip
country rallying. After all, the just south of Savoury Creek, I
Canning was on Garry’s home arrived at Durba Springs two
turf – salt, spinifex and sand hours later than planned.”
– and he’d regularly traversed Due to Cyclone Marcus the
the route on recreational rides track was severely rutted and
over the last two decades. new growth restricted vision.
“I’ve been planning a solo Garry had intended to reach
ride ever since Scotty was over Wiluna pub before nightfall
here,” Garry told AMCN. and battling fatigue, severe
“But influenza knocked cramps and carpal tunnel
me arse over in 2017 and problems, finally made it
category-five Cyclone Marcus into town at 7.51pm, his rally
ripped the area apart last prepped Husqvarna FE501 in
year. This year everything fell far better shape than he was.
into place.” But he bloody well did it.
With the assistance of a few The record now stands at 38
close mates, Garry set up three hours 51 minutes.
fuel drops and an emergency And old blokes rule.
www.sbs.dk
Monza Imports (03) 8327 8888
Kenma Australia (02) 9484 0777
Please make no attempt to imitate the illustrated riding scenes, always wear protective clothing and observe the applicable provisions of the road traffic regulations!
The illustrated vehicles may vary in selected details from the production models and some illustrations feature optional equipment available at additional cost.
IT HAS
ARRIVED
-
The KTM 790 ADVENTURE R meets the demands of the toughest adventurers. Packed
with Dakar - Winning DNA, the KTM 790 ADVENTURE R is a serious offroad motorcycle
featuring everything you need to push the boundaries of exploration to new extremes. The
KTM 790 ADVENTURE R balances the power of a twin, with the lightness and agility of a
single-cylinder offroad motorcycle, to open up new riding possibilities. Offering impressive
fuel range without compromising performance, feeding the powerful yet compact, smooth
and reliable engine. When you’re in constant pursuit of the most intense breakout, this
offroad – crushing machine is ready to adventure harder with easy-to-use rider aids and
practical ergonomics.
Draggin gear!
access
Pair of Draggin jeans
www.dragginjeans.net
Include your full name and address,
via letter or email. Long letters will be cut
to fit, so keep ’em short and to the point.
Letter Oh, and the views expressed by readers here
of the AIR YOUR THOUGHTS OR VENT YOUR SPLEEN
→
issue are not necessarily those of the editor
Access, AMCN, PO Box 20154, World Square, NSW, 2002 access@amcn.com.au
amcn.com.au 25
R ENN
IE W IN
S! SC
AYSBR
OO
H-D
the C
na ke
ba nd
w
access F
OU
NOW EVEN MORE
PLACES TO READ AMCN
Your say
East Timor. One of six Missing trials risk of fatal crashes. of a mess.
ex-commandos aged About the rural speed limits, It took three years, but It’s not just debris on the
between 58 and 80. We the first and only proper eventually Tasmania road which is of concern,
covered over 1200km in 10 trials were conducted in dropped the proposal and but also unsecured loads. I
days, at times over some Tasmania as a proposal to instead went with a more once had to dodge a flying
of the worst roads we had drop country road limits sensible policy of driving queen-size mattress that
ever ridden on – I certainly from 100km/h to 90. This to the conditions. Several broke free and passed over
wouldn’t attempt it on my was based on a model people involved with road my head on the freeway.
Suzuki Boulevard. produced by the Monash safety in Tasmania lost their I can only imagine the
Some of our group hadn’t University Accident jobs over this, not because reactions of my loved ones
ridden for 20 or 30 years, Research Centre (MUARC) of a mistake in modelling, when they’re told of my
we all had a big learning and consisted of 175 pages but because they ignored sudden demise at the hands
curve but we survived to financed by the taxpayer at the trial results and tried of a King Coil.
see some truly magnificent a cost of $228,000. to forge ahead with the I’m loathe to point the
country with beautiful and The most critical proposal anyway. finger at tradies, but maybe
friendly people. assumption made was The failure of the road I’ll change my opinion if
If any of your readers that the average speed of safety industry to share ever I get a laptop stuck in
are really up for a vehicles would drop by the knowledge gained is a my back tyre.
challenge, get in touch 5km/h across the board, and disgrace. Anybody else out there
with Timor Adventures, the projected reduction in Malcolm Eastley having similar adventures?
they really looked after fatal crashes was calculated Via Email Phil Hart
us staying in some at 20 percent. These same Kariong, NSW
beautiful and interesting assumptions form the basis Sick and tyred
accommodation. The 150cc of other research. I’ve been having a bit of a Rider recycler
Hondas were new when we Trials were conducted rough time with flat tyres The criticism of the Towards
started, and they hauled where speeds were recorded on my commute lately, am Zero campaign (Speed
my 130kg butt over some on both straight and twisty I the only unlucky one? My Freaks, AMCN Vol 69 No 24)
impressive terrain. sections of road. The results daily journey is a round trip struck a chord. I used to work
The photo was taken at were consistent; vehicle of 160km on both suburban in the landfill industry and
Balibo, ready for our last leg speeds dropped a little on streets and back roads, had to cope with a Towards
back to Dili. The house is straight sections – from which is a routine I have Zero waste campaign. It was
now a museum tribute to the 94km/h to 92km/h – but been doing for over 10 years. based on the assumption
five journalists killed there. driver reaction saw the Until a couple of years ago that if a 60 percent recycling
Keith Hughes speeds in corners rise by an things were quite normal, rate was good, then a 75
Craigieburn, Vic average of five percent. The but lately something has percent recycling rate must
predicted 20 percent drop changed and I’m not sure be better – just like the
Bonding on bikes, there is turned out to be a 10 percent what’s going on. As riders, approach to speed limits. A
no better way. Sam increase in the measured we all see bits and pieces reduction of country speed
of junk on the road, which limits to 80km/h is good;
→
magnificent country”
harder-to-see debris that little juvenile in its approach
can stop you in your tracks. to the traffic experts. There
I’ve had all manner of is good evidence that says
nasties stuck in my tyres reducing the average speed
including an assortment of traffic decreases the
of nails, drill bits, roofing injury and death rate among
screws, rivets and I’ve road users. That doesn’t
even suffered two separate apply to individual drivers
front-tyre punctures – one or riders though, who can
of which was courtesy of a use experience, skill and
front door key! a well-maintained vehicle
A lesson perhaps to all to reduce their own risks,
your readers is always carry independent of speed.
the right repair gear. On Riding a motorcycle is
most occasions, my tyre fundamentally different
has had to be replaced, to driving a car in that you
especially after removing a can’t violently swerve out of
drill bit, which makes a hell danger at the last moment.
26 amcn.com.au
Giz a squi Your adventure.
Congratulations Tristen, you’ve
scored a beaut Motul cap and T-shirt
valued at $35, kindly supplied by our
Our policy.
mates at Link International.
Send an image and details about QBE Insurance shares your
your two-wheeled pride and joy love of motorcycles. It’s why
to access@amcn.com.au
our policies aren’t just packed
Giz a squiz with benefits, they are highly
competitive. Call our specialist
Rider Tristen Jeff rey rearsets and triples, SP Forks team on 1800 24 34 64 and
Ride 1998 Suzuki RGV250 and Nitron R2 shock. All work ask for a ‘Price Beat Guarantee’
and tuning was done by Dean quote today, or visit qbe.com/au
He says I thought I’d show you at Dynoverks, there’s new
old boys [Hey, I’m not old or a paint on original panels and the
boy! Kel] something you could reproduction decals were done
appreciate. This is my newly by Rod and Scott at Melbourne
restored, 1998 Suzuki RGV250 Motorcycle Fairings.
VJ22. I’m a relatively young Soon it’ll be registered and back
bloke in my 30s, but I also on the road. I hope this one
remember watching MotoGP at brings some good memories
Phillip Island in the two-stroke back for you blokes and your
era as a young kid. Having readers.
owned several bikes, including We say There’s a bike many of
Suzukis and Ducatis, I decided us have a soft spot for. I raced
to add something smaller to one of these (badly) for a couple
the garage, but something that of 250 Proddie seasons, and for
was still a crotch rocket. The a fun bike and relatively cheap
RGV was something I could project, you’ve picked a winner
pour my heart into and relive for sure. You had a good crew
Kevin Schwantz’s greatest working on it, and it will turn
moments on-board his RGV500 a heap of heads on the road –
GP machine. from the looks and the sound.
I rescued this one from Never sell it. Ever. Sam.
Brisbane and brought it back
to Melbourne. Complete with
a full engine rebuild, including Send us your ride via email, to
a new crank, new pistons, access@amcn.com.au or, if you’re a
rings, bearings top/bottom, carby and points kinda person, pop a pic
new barrels, VHM heads, and relevant info in the post to
Readers’ Rides, PO Box 20154,
blasted wheels, reconditioned
World Square, NSW, 2002
brakes, Tyga chambers/cans/
Post of
the issue
Jorge Lorenzo’s lap 2 adventures
in Barcelona got the AMCN bush
telegraph throbbing
28 amcn.com.au
your first →
If it was a paddock basher or a shiny
new one, no one forgets their first
bike. If you get printed, you’ll get
an Oxford lock, Fred’s fave gets the
Reader rides Ipone kit. Show us yours!
Not my first roadbike; it went Honda CB350, Kawasaki Z650, Yamaha My first bike, a Honda CB250 I bought in 1980. It cost me $150 and it
XS1100 then this Suzuki GSX1100 with my then girlfriend, now wife had oil leaks everywhere. The charging system was shot, so I had to
recreating the famous AMCN poster of the time. It’s the picture I keep put the battery on charge whenever I was at the girlfriend’s house.
on my desk. Peter Woodberry It was my ticket to freedom and the first of many bikes. Bob Back
30 amcn.com.au
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mental twisties
SHOW US WHAT YOU KNOW!
Reckon you’re pretty quick when it comes to two-wheeled trivia? Then hav ve a
crack at our who-what-where series. If you’re fi nding it hard, here’s a clue – all
the answers have appeared in AMCN at some time over the past 67 years. When W
you reckon you’ve worked out the bloke, the bike and the track, email you ur
numbered answers to comps@amcn.com.au for your chance to o win!
1. WHO?
Who is the international
Aussie rider known as the
“O Show”?
2. WHEN?
When did Honda stop
producing its famous
CBR1100XX Blackbird?
3. WHAT?
What make and model bike
won Race 1 at the first-ever
1 2
round of the World Superbike
Championship in 1988?
4. WHAT?
What is the name of the
oldest Harley-Davidson
dealership outside of
America?
5. WHERE?
Which track on the
MotoGP calendar is this?
4 3
WIN!
THIS AWESOME
IPONE CARE KIT
32 amcn.com.au
120HP 1203CC V-TWIN ENGINE 4.3-INCH LCD TOUCH SCREEN* FULLY ADJUSTABLE SUSPENSION* HIGH OUTPUT LED HEADLIGHT
amcn.com.au 35
quickspin TEST KELLIE BUCKLEY PHOTOGRAPHY BEN GALLI
1 2
36 amcn.com.au
Dance the Fan-Django
Peugeot is back in Oz with a new scooter line-up ranging from a 50cc moped
through to a 400cc leaning three wheeler, the Django falls in the middle
A
s I accelerated towards the end of spiritual home of the Peugeot brand.
Main. Peugeot’s Django
the freeway’s on-ramp, quickly certainly brings a Of course that 10-week trip across all sorts of
and easily reaching 100km/h to certain je ne sais quoi to terrain, on 12-inch tyres and under just 8.3kW
merge into the afternoon traffic, the scooter market of steam isn’t an easy undertaking, but the
the 12,000km journey I’d learnt 1. Styling is strongly same trip 60 years ago would have been far,
about over lunch suddenly didn’t seem that far European far tougher due to the lack of the features and
fetched. Well, not the recent one anyway. quality of this modern-day scoot – even if the
2. The rider and pillion
In 1957 two French blokes named Serge get a bigger seat than new one does only have a $4290 (plus on-road
Gracium and Michel Vaslin grabbed a pair of many ‘real’ roadbikes costs) price tag.
1955 Peugeot S57 scooters – powered by a 150cc These days it’s powered by a fuel-injected
two-stroke engine and with a three-speed 150.6cc single-cylinder four-stroke engine
manual gearbox – and rode them from Paris in matched with a CVT automatic transmission.
France to Vietnam’s Saigon. I’m scooting along comfortably with the
So when the French marque freeway traffic and there’s still a
recently released the Django little bit left, which I use to pass an
– said to be a nod to the firm’s old van, which is belching black
now-iconic S55 and S57B step- plumes of exhaust. The 12-inch
through models – two self- tyres feel predictable at this
proclaimed ‘road trip addicts’ speed, but I’m pleased the road is
arranged a couple of the neo- well maintained; things get a bit
retro offerings and made the hairy when the road gets rough
reverse journey, this time – common, though, for all smaller-
starting in what is now called wheeled scoots.
Ho Chi Minh City and riding The bike that I’m on is fitted with
11,775km back to Paris, the the small optional screen, which
amcn.com.au 37
quickspin
2019 Peugeot Django 150
amcn.com.au 39
quickspin
Main. You meet the nicest people in traffic on a Peugeot scooter 1. The optional rear
rack is included on the up-spec Allure model 2. Instruments combine traditional
with modern 3. There’s room for an iPhone in there (but not much else)
SPECS
ENGINE
Capacity 150.6cc
Type Single-cylinder SOHC,
two valves
Bore & stroke 57.4 x 58.2mm
Compression ratio Not given
Cooling Air
Fueling EFI, single throttle body
Transmission CVT Auto
Clutch Not applicable
Final drive Direct drive
PERFORMANCE
Power 8.3kW @ 8500rpm (claimed)
Torque 11Nm @ 7000rpm
(claimed)
Top speed 115km/h (measured)
Fuel consumption 3L/100km
(measured)
ELECTRONICS
Type Not given
Rider aides Single-channel ABS
CHASSIS
Frame material Steel
Frame type Tubular lattice
Rake Not given
Trail Not given
Wheelbase 1350mm
1 2 3 SUSPENSION
Type Peugeot
Front Conventional non-
adjustable telescopic fork, 85mm
travel
Rear Monoshock with adjustable
preload, 80mm travel
WHEELS & BRAKES
Wheels Cast steel
Front: 12 x 3 Rear: 12 x 3
Tyres CST
digital readout for the rest of the information predictable and mild weather patterns, a vehicle Front: 120/70-12
supplied. Really practical stuff, like ambient air like Peugeot’s new Django makes really good Rear: 120/70-12
temperature, a clock and a fuel gauge remain second-vehicle sense for the urban dweller. Its Brakes
in view all the time – three bits of info I like low purchase price and even lower running and Front: Single 200mm disc,
twin-piston caliper
and refer to often – while the two trip meters maintenance costs buys you a light and easy- Rear: Single 190mm disc,
and odometer can be switched between via a to-use vehicle. It can grab the groceries, grab twin-piston caliper
single button on the dash unit. There’s a freeze the kids from school and its neo-retro looks will DIMENSIONS
indicator as well as a battery charge indicator. grab a few envious looks from passers-by, too. Weight 129kg (dry, claimed)
The fuel gauge starts f lashing when it’s down Would I ride one 12,000km through remote Seat height 770mm
to two bars, acting as a double warning. And it countries, bustling cities and tricky border Width 710mm
consumes fuel at 3L/100km, meaning you’ll get crossings? It wouldn’t be my first choice, but I Height 1190mm
Length 1925mm
around 250 kays from your 8.5L tank, which cost have no doubt it would eventually make it. In
Ground clearance Not given
me just over eight bucks to fill with premium fact, Samual and Ambroise reported they did Fuel capacity 8.5L
fuel. It’s filled via a compartment in front of finish their journey without having to complete
SERVICING & WARRANTY
your left knee, and boasts a centrestand as well anything other than scheduled maintenance. Servicing First: 500km;
as a side stand, which helps make sure you fill it And you’d nearly have to expect it given Peugeot Minor: 5000km
right to the top. has been building two-wheelers since the turn Major: 10,000km
In a country like Australia that has relatively of last century. Warranty Two years, unlimited
km, plus roadside assist
BUSINESS END
2019 PEUGEOT DJANGO 150 Price $4290 (plus on-road costs)
PROS CONS
Colour options Orange/white,
Stylish and practical, very frugal to buy The underseat storage doesn’t take a
red/white or blue/white
and run, proven mechanicals. Wide full-face helmet. Not huge zip for bigger
Contact peugeotmotorcycles.
choice of colours and accessories riders. Dealer network is still light-on
com.au
40 amcn.com.au
Launches 8 August 2019
042 FIRST
RIDE 2019 MOTO MORINI MILANO
CROSS
Italian boutique brand
Moto Morini is on the move.
It’s Chinese owned, it’s based
in Europe and its newest Milano
model is the start of a new era
TEST ALAN CATHCART PHOTOGRAPHY KEL EDGE
N
ot long ago, Italy’s small but historic Moto
Morini brand was in the bankruptcy courts,
as yet another victim of the 2008 GFC crash.
But since last October, it now belongs to
Chen Huaneng, the CEO of privately-owned
Chinese manufacturer Zhongneng.
He’s working hard on fast-forwarding the first two Moto
Morini middleweight models in time for a 2019 EICMA
Show unveiling – a nakedbike and a street scrambler, both
powered by Chinese-built 650cc parallel-twin motors.
Meanwhile, production continues in Moto Morini’s
Trivolzio factory near Milan of its range of 1187cc models
powered by the unique V-twin CorsaCorta engine.
In between times, in 2011 Moto Morini was purchased
from the liquidator by two Milan-based investors, one
of whom – Ruggeromassimo Jannuzzelli – took over sole
ownership of the company five years later. Thereafter,
Moto Morini continued its steady ride along the comeback
trail. Morini’s 13-strong workforce produced 190
motorcycles in 2018, most of which were hand-built.
But as part of his plan to fuel Moto Morini’s resurgence,
Jannuzzelli invested some serious cash in producing
the kind of motorcycle he’d want to buy himself. That’s
somewhat ironically now entered production under
Chinese ownership as the Moto Morini Milano.
“I wanted a bike that’s practical, but exciting,” says
Ruggero. “With a full-bodied engine that provides a
thrilling ride on the open road, but is easy to use in a city –
something that’s the best of both worlds. I wanted a proper
MOTO MORINI MILANO
44 amcn.com.au
1 2
“EVERYONE’S CONVINCED
THE MILANO IS 20 KILOS
LESS, BUT IT’S EXACTLY
THE SAME WEIGHT”
MOTO MORINI MILANO
THE
Why did you purchase use the expertise of Morini What type of engines this, we will also have a
Moto Morini? engineers and designers will you develop for different family of Moto
We could see that in to develop some new these models? Morini models with
FUTURE’S
China and in Southeast models with midsize We must make sure parallel-twin engines from
Asia, the sales of engine displacement that one of the engines 500cc to 800cc.
larger displacement from 400cc up, including is a V-twin, to recognise
motorcycles are growing 500cc, 600cc and 800cc the Moto Morini historic Will you use a different
BRIGHT
very fast. We decided to models. We will expand tradition. We will develop engine platform for
purchase Moto Morini in the Moto Morini range a V-twin engine platform different models of the
order to continue selling considerably, but we will for certain types of models same capacity?
and improving their not consider any models from 650cc to 850cc in Yes. So for sporting
A chin-wag with Mr Chen existing range, and also to smaller than 400cc. capacity. Then alongside machines we will maintain
46 amcn.com.au
FORZA ITALIA! NOT-SO-FAR THAT’S NOT AMORE! SLOW REACTION
The Moto Morini’s lines hark Stylish tank is impractical. The There’s no powershifter to play Rear brakes are a weak point,
back to the days of its 1200cc engine is not noted for with so you will have to make and may be changed on the
350cc V-twins of the 1970s. its great economy and with only your gearchanges deliberate. production version of the bike.
But expect smaller and more a 13-litre capacity you will be Even with a wide spread of It’s the same with the throttle;
affordable MMs to feature a looking for benzina after little power, changing gears is more look for Ride by Wire when the
parallel-twin engine. more than 100km. of a chore than you’d like. Milano hits the dealers.
amcn.com.au 47
avenues; the Morini responded decisively, surging to 13,000rpm – it’s also content to pootle along at
MOTO MORINI MILANO forward at a twist of the wrist to leave TMaxes low, low revs in traffic.
droning in its wake. Indeed, the CorsaCorta motor’s light-action
Indeed, the Milano has a great feeling of 54mm single-butterfly throttle bodies give a clean,
SPECS
connectivity between what your right hand is controllable pickup from any revs. It’s happiest
doing and the way the bike puts the power to the operating in the 2500-6500rpm zone, so you’ll want
tarmac. There’s no digital filter to dilute your to short-shift to stay there and surf the torque curve
desires, just an analogue link between the throttle by holding third or fourth gear for long stretches of
ENGINE
Capacity 1187cc
and the rear tyre that’s refreshingly old school, road over a variety of conditions.
Type 87-degree V-twin, but deliciously direct. And the traction control It was hard not to be impressed with Ruggero
DOHC, eight valves proved very welcome riding over Milan’s polished Jannuzzelli’s legacy to the Moto Morini marque
Bore & stroke 107mm x 66mm flagstones, ditto the Bosch ABS. The Brembo radial in the shape of the new Milano he’s responsible
Compression ratio 11.3:1 brake package is its usual peerless self, effective for creating. And I’m glad that Mr. Chen has
Cooling Liquid
without being grabby, with the twin front discs decided to keep faith with the model, which he’s
Fueling EFI, twin throttle bodies
Transmission Six-speed hauling the Milano down from high speed with declared will receive an RBW throttle, a range of
Clutch Wet, multi-plate with heaps of feel as you work the clutch lever to back different riding modes – and that badly needed
‘anti-hopping’ system down the gears, and access the considerable two-way powershifter.
Final drive Chain engine braking the Gustato gang have left dialled With its great handling, decent performance and
PERFORMANCE in to the slipper clutch. The rear brake wasn’t very upright riding stance, the Milano is an electronics-
Power 85.4kW @ 8000rpm strong, though – pads, maybe? lite real-world ride, where it’s up to you to harness
(claimed) You readily realise how flexible and forgiving that glorious engine’s deep reserves of performance
Torque 108Nm @ 7000rpm
(claimed)
the Milano’s CorsaCorta engine if you gun it wide via judicious use of the right hand. It’s a satisfying
Top speed 225km/h (claimed) open in fourth gear at 2000rpm exiting a second- ride in traffic, because of its thrilling acceleration
Fuel consumption Not given gear turn, and can then relish its meaty midrange and outstanding responsiveness across a broad
ELECTRONICS as it pulls hard and strong in completely linear range of revs.
Type TBA ECU, mode all the way through to the fierce-action One year ago when I rode the Corsaro ZT I wrote
Rider aides Bosch 9.1 ABS 9300rpm revlimiter, without a trace of transmission that this was the complete opposite of a nanny state
CHASSIS snatch. This might be unexpected for such a bike – something with two wheels and an engine
Frame material Tubular steel short-stroke engine format, which you’d normally that’s so gloriously non-PC you’re practically
Frame type Trellis, TIG welded expect to have to rev quite hard to obtain this kind surprised that anyone is actually allowed to build
Rake 25° of performance. While the motor has a serious bikes like this for sale any more. Moto Morini does –
Trail 108mm
Wheelbase 1490mm
appetite for revs – Lambertini claims it runs safely and it has just doubled its bets with the Milano.
SUSPENSION
Type Mupo THE MOTOR HAS A SERIOUS APPETITE FOR
REVS BUT IT’S ALSO CONTENT IN TRAFFIC
Front 46mm USD telescopic fork,
adjustable preload, damping,
compression, 120mm travel
Rear Single-sided trellis
swingarm with monoshock,
hydraulic adjustable preload,
height and rebound,
110mm travel
WHEELS & BRAKES
Wheels Cast aluminium
Front: 17 x 3.5 Rear: 17 x 6.0
Tyres Pirelli Angel GT
Front: 120/70ZR17
Rear: 190/60ZR17
Brakes Brembo
Front: Twin 320mm discs,
four-piston caliper
Rear: Single 220mm disc,
double-piston caliper
DIMENSIONS
Weight 200kg (kerb, claimed)
Seat height 820mm
Width Not given
Height Not given
Length Not given
Ground clearance Not given
Fuel capacity 13L
SERVICING & WARRANTY
Servicing First: 1000km;
Minor: Not given
Major: Not given
Warranty Not applicable in Oz
BUSINESS END
Price TBC
Colour options Red/black or
blue/black
Contact motomorini.eu
PROS CONS
Exclusivity, great looks, eff ortless grunt There’s no powershifter and the
and that certain Dolce Vita you only get throttle and brakes need a fi nal
with rare Italian roadsters tweak. It won’t be cheap either
48 amcn.com.au
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50 amcn.com.au
THE
The
headlines are
plenty and
the numbers
are sobering. WORDS
We dig a little
STEPHEN CORBY
PHOTOGRAPHY
WORD
C
rashing a car is nobody’s
idea of a picnic. I’ve had
my ribs cracked asunder,
lungs seatbelt-smacked to
the point where it felt like
I was breathing through a needle, and
been punched in the face – with tongue-
lolling force – by an airbag.
Aside from the smashing shudder of
impact, there’s the screeching tyres, the
screaming brakes and the squealing
humans in the car with you, providing
a cacophony of chaos. It’s all pretty shit.
WHY RIDERS CRASH
“REGULAR
MAINTENANCE
IS ESSENTIAL TO
KEEP VICTORIA’S
ARTERIAL ROAD
NETWORK IN
GOOD CONDITION,
THAT’S WHY WE’RE
ROLLING OUT NEW 1 2
SURVEILLANCE
OFFICER TRAINING 3 4
TO HELP OUR
CREWS BETTER
IDENTIFY ROAD
IMPERFECTIONS AND
OTHER POTENTIAL
HAZARDS FOR
MOTORCYCLISTS.”
ROGER CHAO, VICROADS DIRECTOR,
ROAD USER AND VEHICLE ACCESS.
2500
And yet I’d happily do it all again, right now, if the safe SUVs? How much responsibility do we, as
only other option was crashing a motorcycle. riders, have for the relatively high number of bike
It’s the burning that sticks with me, as the crashes on our roads? Even if it was legally and
predominant pain point. The skid of skin on technically someone else’s fault, if we crash at all,
leather on road, and on fire, seemingly. The fear recorded serious injuries it’s our fault, right? Why is that we never seem to
factor is also worse, I’m afraid. That long, cruelly for motorcyclists have want to admit that?
drawn out mini-moment, a nanosecond that not dropped below 2500 Crashing is, truly, the C word. Using it, even in
moves at Nanna speed in your mind, when you since 2007
impolite company, is frowned upon.
know you’re about to have an accident, and you So, what do the cold, hard and occasionally
34%
brace yourself for it physically as your brain fades bloody facts tell us?
to hot white flashes of ‘Oh shit, Oh shit, Oh shit’. First, some good news – rider deaths are actually
Crashing is, in the minds of the weak and watery, decreasing across Australia. It’s not the huge fall
a justification on its own for not riding. Indeed, we’d all like to see – it’s a 10 percent drop over 10
after a few unbelievably close shaves and painful years, according to the Australian Road Deaths
impacts, almost none of which were technically my more motorcycle database – but it is sustained. And it becomes
fault, I gave up riding for a while. I even kept a piece ownership, yet 10 percent even better news when you consider motorcycle
of gravel in my back from the last blood-slide along fewer deaths. registrations across the country increased by more
a road, to remind me, but it didn’t last. than a third over the same period.
21%
The fact is, of course, there’s a chance we’ll all According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics,
fall off at some point in our riding careers. Tied Australians registered 200,000 additional
to that is the claim from some that they’ve never motorbikes between 2008 and 2018, with
fallen off or never had a crash that wasn’t the fault registrations up from 567,569 in 2008 to 860,700 in
of someone else; invariably someone else in a car. 2018. That equates to an increase of more than 34
But is that truism true? Are most motorcycle of all traffic accident percent in motorcycle ownership, yet 10 percent
accidents caused by inattentive phone addicts in hospitalisations in 2018 fewer deaths.
their overly quiet, comfortable and stultifyingly were motorcyclists. There were 245 biking fatalities among 567,000
52 amcn.com.au
5
riders in 2008, versus 192 among 860,000 riders 1. There are often room; the fact that riders are more likely to die
in 2018. Over the past 10 years, on a purely multiple contributing than drivers. This is fact that bears repeating, even
statistical basis, the chances of an Australian factors behind crashes if it is as obvious as the suggestion that having 390
biker owning the motorcycle they’ll die on has 2. A clear day, decent million guns in your country makes it more likely
decreased by more than 51 percent, to little more rubber on the rims... and that someone will get shot.
than 0.02 percent. still this rider went down So, how bad is it? Well, the Queensland
That’s a figure to shove in the face of anyone who 3. That would be a University of Technology’s Centre for
calls you a Temporary Australian. closed fracture of the Accident Research and Road Safety found that
Sadly, statistics which show how things are fifth metacarpal bone. motorcyclists are 30 times more likely to die in
getting better don’t mean all that much when AMCN recommends a an accident than car occupants. According to its
you’re at the funeral of a mate or family member. light support combined 2017 report, “motorcycles accounted for only five
with moderate pain
And, even in numerical terms, it’s hard to celebrate percent of Queensland vehicle registrations, yet
management. See your
a 10 percent reduction in road fatalities in a decade doctor if pain persists motorcyclists accounted for 24.8 percent of the
when, over the same period, car-driver deaths have state road fatalities.”
4. Highly experienced
fallen by 16.4 per cent. ex-AMCN editor Mick
Those figures are reflected across Australia
And let’s not forget that we’re still talking about Matheson finding the – according to Victoria’s Transport Accident
hundreds of bikers dying every year. limits of a VTR1000. But Commission (TAC), motorbike riders make up less
Worse still is that, in the 12 months to May too often, capable bikes than four percent of road users in Victoria, but
2019, motorcyclist deaths increased over the find the limits of the rider accounted for 18 percent of road deaths over the
previous period, according to the Australian 5. Rider training is past 10 years.
Bureau of Infrastructure, Transport and Regional mandatory in some, but And in New South Wales, motorcycles accounted
Economics. Sure, statistically we just have bad not all, states for 4.5 percent of registered vehicles in 2018,
years now and then, yet over the same period, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, yet
fatalities for car drivers and their passengers, Transport NSW figures indicate that motorcyclists
pedestrians and cyclists all decreased. accounted for 21 per cent of all hospitalisations in
Then there’s the ugly, farting elephant in the the same year. And recorded serious injuries for
amcn.com.au 53
1 2
MECHANICAL ERROR
dithering drivers who are less concerned with
4. There is rarely a direct driving than they are with finding the right track
connection between the
THE ROAD DOES NOT vehicle crashes. That’s one bike, and no cars at all.
So far this year in Victoria, 10 out of the 13
54 amcn.com.au
DOES RIDER
TRAINING WORK?
You train for your job, or to make a
coffee. Does rider training pay off?
OF ALL THE state and federal agencies contacted
for this article, none presented hard data on the
effect of pre-learner practical training. Transport
NSW is “currently evaluating the Motorcycle
Graduated Licensing Scheme (MGLS) which
includes the pre-learner training course.”
A 2017 motorcycle safety review in Western
Australia (where pre-learner training is not a
part of getting a motorcycle licence) suggests
investigating “the benefits of a competency-
based practical riding assessment” and
“mandatory or voluntary pre-training.”
So far, they’ve noted that “evidence [of benefit]
is inconclusive but many jurisdictions have
some form of off-road qualification scheme
which could be replicated or modified for use in
Western Australia.”
And the result of WA’s wilful avoidance of
sensible policy? Well, despite representing only
5.6 percent of the registered vehicles in WA, 18
percent of its fatalities were motorcyclists last
year (29 of them).
Surely it stands to reason that training
and practice in both basic and advanced
riding techniques could only help. Ask any
motorcyclist who also pilots cars occasionally
whether they think their training, and
experience, on bikes makes them a better driver
and you’ll get the same affirmative answer every
time. Same goes for whether people learning to
drive cars should be getting something similar.
And yet skills such as lessons on how to
regain traction at the front and rear tyre are
not always part of current learner-training
programs, where they do exist. They instruct
more on the operation of a motorcycle, less on
its control, and not on emergency manoeuvres.
4 Further training is left to the inclination and
bank balance of the rider.
50%
another vehicle was involved, “the motorcyclist that rider and pillion would be alive today. If the
[was] deemed to be at fault in just over half [of] rider had entered the corner at the suggested entry
these crashes.” speed, it’s also possible he would not have lost
It’s hard to digest figures that suggest that 50 control. Finally, if a Nissan Patrol wasn’t coming
percent of the time, bikers are the architects of the other way at that exact moment, there’s every
their own demise. There’s a cognitive dissonance the amount figures
possibility that they might have walked, or at least
between how often we save our own skin from the suggest motorcyclists
are at fault
limped, away from the crash.
road warriors and raging misanthropes who take That’s the thing about statistics – they can
53%
lane filtering as a personal insult, and the idea that sometimes tell such a small amount of the story.
half the time, they’re not to blame – we are. But clearly it wouldn’t hurt if roads were safer?
Or are we? If we crash our bikes, is it always our “Regular maintenance is essential to keep
fault? What about the myriad other factors besides Victoria’s arterial road network in good condition,”
rider error? says Roger Chao, VicRoads Director, Road User
Take the case of a couple who were killed a few and Vehicle Access. “That’s why we’re rolling
years ago in Victoria. According to the coroner, the of NSW motorcycle
fatalities were single
out new surveillance officer training to help our
rider’s bike struck a “substantial bitumen mound” crews better identify road imperfections and other
vehicle accidents in 2017
found on the proper cornering line in a “tight left- potential hazards for motorcyclists.”
3X
hand bend”, which “caused [him] to lose control.” But there’s an argument for a wider scope than
At the time, the rider was travelling at more than just road maintenance. “The four elements are
the advised corner speed but less than the road’s safer people, safer roads, safer speeds and safer
posted speed limit. A friend of the couple who was vehicles,” says Bernard Carlon, Executive Director
riding in convoy, approached the same corner of the NSW Centre for Road Safety.
below the advised corner speed and hit the same male road deaths “We need to improve the safety of all parts of
bump, but did not lose control. Instead, he stopped among all road users are the system, so that if one part fails, the other
and tried in vain to save his friends’ lives. consistently this much parts will protect people from being killed or
If the pressure ridge wasn’t there, it’s probable hgher than females seriously injured.
amcn.com.au 55
WHY RIDERS CRASH
“MALES
“With all of these elements working together as
a whole, the system is more forgiving of human SCORED HIGHER
or mechanical error and the impact of a mistake
made on the road does not result in a fatality or THAN FEMALES
serious injury.”
The first element of Carlon’s approach is safer IN DRIVER
people. But what does that mean for motorcyclists?
“I’d start with a more stringent learner’s course AGGRESSION
and a higher level of knowledge to earn L plates,”
says a NSW Highway Patrolman, who asked to AND THRILL
remain anonymous.
He’s seen fatalities “on a number of occasions” SEEKING
from rudimentary mistakes, like “travelling too
close to other vehicles” and “filtering between a AND IN THEIR
car and the kerb”. In situations like these, he says,
the rider “hasn’t had time to react.” GENERAL RISK
In his experience attending motorcycle crashes,
and even while pursuing errant riders, a “lack
of riding skill is a major factor”. He’s had to call
1
ACCEPTANCE”
off “an extremely high-speed pursuit” because
the person he was chasing “was a shit rider, so I 2
terminated the pursuit for his safety.”
That leads us to the other, passive part of
personal protection. Since 1972, helmets
have been mandatory inclusions in Australia,
but everything else remains merely a strong
recommendation. The Consumer Rating and
56 amcn.com.au
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058 RACE
TECH MOTOGP
CENTRE OF GRAVITY
WORKS IN A CAR BUT
DOES NOT MAKE A
BIKE FASTER!
A THREE-
CYLINDER ENGINE IN
A COMPACT CHASSIS
WON HONDA’S FIRST
00 TL
MOTOGP CHASSIS DEVELOPMENT
S
’ve located the shock
hat probably due to
ce restrictions, most
ely to get the
uting for the r
xpansion cha
applaud them
hinking outsi
ox. At that ti
as still trial a
ith link syste
ver ratios and
sorber techno
now you coul
ion the shock
ith no proble
KALEX
“Lowering the centre of gravity in a car
works very well, but it doesn’t make a bike
faster! Like the 0W61, it looks like they built
the engine and then wondered where and
1984 HONDA NSR500
HRC CHANGED ITS engineering group every few years, to introduce new ideas a
push young designers. Back then, engineers didn’t know that a motorcycle nee
how to mount it. They found a solid part of the engine for reasonably high centre of gravity to help it turn and pitch back and forth to load
the top mount but it’s a long way from the headstock, so
they’ve made big profi les around the steering head and
pressed recesses to make it stiffer. You can see the castor
angle is getting steeper and a higher swingarm pivot for
more anti-squat, so the more engine power you apply the
less the rear suspension extends. The low gas tank isn’t
good, because when the fuel load is low the rider will lose
the front by the inertia of the fluid moving around.
ÖHLINS
“This looks like a spinoff from Andre de
Cortanze’s Elf endurance bikes, which
carried the fuel under the engine. De
Cortanze was a car engineer who thought
a low centre of gravity would be great on a bike. It’s crazy
French engineering, but in some ways I love it! The forks
have Honda’s TRAC anti-dive system, which closed
damping valves during braking; but didn’t really wor
60 amcn.com.au
KALEX
“They’ve got the
swingarm pivot in
better place now.
the rear engine m
points are closer t
the pivot, so you d
get a long lever eff
which can overrul
swingarm. Also, t
swingarm pivot ar
strong and you ca
other parts of the fr
fl ex; if they were alr
thinking about tha
of thing.”
ÖHLINS
“This chassis was
KALEX
“The thinking in this bike is more
modern and mostly follows improved
tyre grip. They had to separate edge
grip and drive grip, so they had to
that separates lateral and torsional
there’s the transition area when you’re
d loading the rear tyre, so you have
teral bending. The more drive the more
ng you have. It’s always a compromise
acing – you never find the perfect
ÖHLINS
“Now they have one beam section, one
line connecting the swingarm pivot the
headstock. And the forks are wider, up
from 41mm to 43mm. From this point
aking everything stiff er and stiff er, which
ntil it peaked in 1993.”
U UL A U a is as e s ar o e o ern era. is as e rs
aluminium beam-framed 500, Yamaha’s Deltabox. It wasn’t Yamaha’s idea, but
inspired by a 1982 250 built by Spanish genius Antonio Cobas.
amcn.com.au 61
MOTOGP CHASSIS DEVELOPMENT
ÖHLINS
“None of today’s riders would li
frame! They would say it’s too s
think everyone at this time had
philosophy of building more sti
We had our fi rst upside-down forks in 1988 and
Showa’s fi rst upside-downs. They aff ected the
behaviour of the whole bike, so the factories in
stiff ness in other areas, because everything m
in symbiosis.”
62 amcn.com.au
KALEX
“Now we are in our age! The engine
mounts are nearer the front and although
the 1989 NSR had three mounting bolts,
while this has only two, there’s still
enough space between them to take longitudinal forces.
The swingarm pivot section is super big and the pivot is
higher, so the anti-squat angle is greater. They needed
this because they had more power, and aggressive
power, which would otherwise compress the rear shock
too much and the front would be in the air all the time.
The higher section of the swingarm shows that the
swingarm has really become part of chassis design.
But the pivot isn’t adjustable, which I think is absolutely
wrong. The shock is now easier to get at – so they were
realising that if you can change settings and springs
quicker you get more track time.”
ÖHLINS
“By this time chassis engineers had
realised that the stiff er the frame, the
more work that gives the suspension.
The rider wants to feel confi dent in the
front when he goes into corners, but he doesn’t want to
feel every seam and every ripple; because it’s too much
information. The turning point was 1993. Yamaha made
a super-stiff frame. First time he rode it, Wayne Rainey
said it felt so nice, but when he tried to lay down lap
times he looked worried. So we drilled two holes on the
inside of each side of the beams and connected them
with a hacksaw, to give some chassis fl ex, so the rider
didn’t feel he was on the razor’s edge. The NSR hardly
changed during this time. It’s got 45mm forks, with
magnesium fork bottoms. They used some Showa forks
v r one called ‘Sholins’ – they’d bought some
erbike forks from our Japanese importer.”
KALEX
“Wonderful! And not far from where
we are now. The engine hangers are
long, so you’ve got fl ex over quite a long
distance, so you can play with fl ex. The
whole design is so much cleaner: everything is arranged
where it needs to be and the fuel is much lower. The
S RIVALS swingarm pivot section is machined from solid, but
e, which they were still pressing the main sections of the frame.
r MotoGP The geometry and squat hadn’t changed much from
hangers, the NSR, because they already had an understanding
nd mass- of that. CAD [computer-aided design] was a big thing by
deal with then, so they were using computer simulations to help
f 16 races design. Also, CAM (computer-aided manufacturing)
l season. was coming in, so machining was done via your
computer model and not by hand programming, so
freeform shapes started appearing.”
ÖHLINS
“Compare the steering head area to the
0W76; it’s not as stiff, to help the bike turn
into corners. People are starting to design
things to work in harmony. I know they
were doing a lot of experiments with engine-mount and
swingarm-pivot torque around this time. Because you
can make a frame that’s 60 percent stiffer, but when you
bolt in the engine the difference may only be ten percent;
so you try to spread the load differently by torqueing the
engine bolts or swingarm pivot; maybe you try 40Nm,
then 80Nm, then 160Nm. The shock link is a typical
SW link. We call them SW, for Swindon, because they
were designed by Mick Mills, when he worked at CCM
Armstrong, before he came to work for us.”
amcn.com.au 63
“THIS SWINGARM
HAS LESS EFFECT
ON ANTI-SQUAT”
KALEX
“This is a beautiful
ÖHL
“Suz
thing – the their
loveliest! They have appl
detachable engine beca
hangers, which is smart; the fact is very, very well tho
that this is an adjustable part tells You watch how Alex
you that this is a key area, where into a corner too hot,
you need to work. Beneath the then he just pulls it b
black covers on the beam sections The others can’t do t
they probably have different [Marc] Marquez with
carbon-fibre sections to get the manoeuvres. All the
right twist points. They have four our carbon-fibre fork
engine mounts, which is also good, very stiff but give lat
because you have more chance corners. We can adj
to adjust things. I like inline-four of our forks with the
engines, because I think it gives lay the fibres, how
you more freedom. With a V4 you fibres and so on. But
fight with exhaust position and everyone uses the s
there’s only one place you can put forks. The manufact
the fuel. The V4 is only for power, have different triple
but MotoGP bikes have so much different steering-h
power they only use full power for a set-ups to adjust twi
few percent of each lap.” corner entry.”
64 amcn.com.au
KALEX
“I don’t think the stressed engine
was the problem, but maybe the
fact that the frame section is very
short, which makes it diffi cult
to control fl ex. Also, it’s very diffi cult to get a
full simulation of engine fl ex with the engine
running. Plus the bike has a very, very, very
long swingarm, with extra internal plates to add
stiff ness. This swingarm is so long that it has
less eff ect on anti-squat. If the anti-squat doesn’t
change under power, then that’s one less thing
the rider can control with the gas. The bike looks
very front-loaded. They put all the weight they
could up front, so they must’ve had more power
than they wanted.”
ÖHLINS
“It’s a long swingarm,
but a lever ratio is a lever
ratio, even if the arm is
that long. So long as the
spring rate working the axle is correct and
you’ve got the right amount of chain force
and anti-squat [which stops the shock from
compressing too much under power] then it
doesn’t matter if the swingarm is long. In fact if
you have a long swingarm the swingarm angle
doesn’t change much, so the chain force stays
more or less the same, so the rider has more
confi dence about how the bike will behave in
certain scenarios. Some chain force is a good
thing: when you are at full lean, starting to
accelerate and the bike is compressed, you
want these forces to pull the rear wheel into the YZR-M1 WAS at its peak in the fi nal years of Bridgestones, carefully
chassis; you don’t want the forces pushing the logically developed since Valentino Rossi fi rst climbed on the bike
wheel out.” 004. By this time the factory had a very good handle on the science
hassis stiff ness and probably would’ve won the 2013 title, but for
the genius of rookie Marc Marquez!
amcn.com.au 65
Summer only truly starts in Italy
with the sound of MotoGP engines
– and clouds of yellow smoke – at
Mugello. Here, a yellow-liveried
Jack Miller leads Marquez
068 TRACK
TEST 2019 HARLEY-DAVIDSON SOFTAIL TOUR
On Track
A
Harley-Davidson racetrack might not be the first place
that you or I immediately think of
overhauled its Softail as a great destination to sample
Harley-Davidson’s 2019 Softail
range last year and the range, but the Motor Company is a
improvements on paper
brand which goes about its business a little bit
differently to most.
and on the road are One of the things Harley does differently (and
often better) than most is customer engagement.
vast. But what about if And so, at no less than 12 events scattered
across the country, the firm gathered a gaggle
we drag them way out of current-model motorcycles, put the word out
to its hordes of current and would-be customers
of their comfort zone? and the 2019 Softail Tour was underway.
68 amcn.com.au
2019 SOFTAIL TOUR
1991
1988
FXSTS
The Fat Boy featured in
the 1991 fi lm; Terminator
2: Judgement Day,
Springer Softail cementing its place as
introduced an iconic motorcycle
WHAT
ELSE?
The largest
development
project in H-D
history, hey?
This is what it
looked like
THE 2018 SOFTAIL
range featured a
completely new
THE BEAST WITHIN
frame built around
THE FXDR IS a diff erent beast. Sitting in pit lane it looks the all-new
long and menacing, and heading out of the pit area and Milwaukee-Eight
up the small straight towards turn six, the FXDR picks engine platform.
up speed at a rapid rate of knots. Harley claims that the The Milwaukee-
114 cubic-inch Milwaukee-Eight engine in the FXDR is Eight engine in
the most powerful ever fitted in a Softail and it feels like either 107 or 114
it. The 116Nm of torque the 1968cc engine brings to the capacities offered
table is epic. Thankfully, with all that power on tap, the reduced induction
twin disc set-up on the front brings the bike to a halt noise, increased
confi dently. As you throw it into the fi rst corner, you also power and
notice that it takes a fair bit longer before the metallic torque, and a dual
rasp of foot peg hitting bitumen comes to ear. It’s no counter-balancer
sportsbike, but it certainly has the ground clearance the system to reduce
other Softails can only dream of. vibration without
FROM $35,495 + ORC eliminating the
traditional Harley
feel. The all-new
frame is stiffer
PUNTING A 200-AND-SOMETHING KILO CRUISER and lighter than
SOFTAIL SLIM
LIGHTER TOUCH
the seat to retain
the classic
hardtail look. The
improvements
LIKE ITS HERITAGE Classic and didn’t stop with
Deluxe siblings, the Slim runs the engine and
ostalgic lines and takes you frame package,
ack to days gone by with its with the electrical
wire-spoked wheels, chopped fenders system receiving
and single seat. Looking every bit the a major upgrade
old-school bobber, it has the lowest seat and the addition
height of the bikes I rode but it still felt of Showa dual-
comfortable and roomy. Despite running bending valve
the smaller, 107 cubic-inch engine, it forks for improved
propelled itself along in a more spritely damping
manner than the 114 cu-in-equipped performance.
Heritage Classic, mostly due the 25 kilos
less bulk it needs to push. Like all the
traditional-style Softails, you’ll need to
get used to dragging chrome along the
ground once the pace quickens, but the
higher and narrower footboards on the
new Softails keeps the bitumen at bay
longer than they used to.
FROM $26,495 + ORC
1999 2018
All-new Softail range released,
FXSTD Deuce is featuring stiff er, lighter frames
released and all-new Milwaukee-Eight 107
or 114 engines
1997
FLSTS Heritage
2008
The FXCW Rocker
Springer is and FLSTSB Cross
released Bones released
2019 SOFTAIL TOUR
DELUXE
BLING KING
SCREAMING EVERY BIT your traditional Harley-Davidson, the Deluxe
is dripping with chrome. The Milwaukee-Eight 107 pushes its 303kg
weight around at a decent clip and the brakes are strong and effective.
It’s only when you tip it into a corner that it struggles to keep up with the
larger bikes in the performance stakes. It feels soft and a little vague
when cornering – it’s more akin to the old Softail range than an FDXR or
even the Sport Glide. If you roll off the throttle though and bring the pace
back towards legal road speeds as you enter the corner, it a pleasure
to ride. And despite the lack of cornering performance, it was always
predictable, and quite happy to let you know that it doesn’t want to be
pushed any harder.
FROM $29,750 + ORC
SPORT GLIDE
SURPRISE PACKAGE
THE SPORT GLIDE was the first
of the Touring Softails I rode at Eastern Creek, it looked formidable and
large, and I had no idea what to expect of it on a racetrack. I needn’t have
worried; it handled intuitively and stopped better than its 317kg (wet)
heft ought to. The 107 cubic-inch engine propels it along with as much
vigour as you’d need, and it’s got decent ground clearance compared to
other bikes in the Touring segment. It’s not ‘sporty’ when compared to the
FXDR or the Fat Bob, but the mini batwing fairing and panniers are both
removable, turning it from a practical mile eater into what feels like
a stripped-back, more sporty ride. It’s by far the most versatile in terms
of matching your mood and needs on any given day.
FROM $27,750 + ORC
72 amcn.com.au
074 TYRE
E
LAUNCH METZELER CRUISETEC
C I S
g r ip in
t m o re ?
Wan i se y d ay
n
r c r u op t io
you r h a s a n
z el e
Met WOR DS
H
SAM MACLAC
ALF LI
GHT P
H
HLAN
OTOGRAPH
Y
PHY
GRA
PHOTO
T R O L
1. Large and soft it may be but
METZELER
MET
TZEL
ZELER
ER CRU
CRUISE
CRUISETEC
ISETE
TEC Honda’s Goldwing is a good test
F
of a tyre’s all-round features
or years power cruiser, custom 2. When you’ve got that much
and tourer riders have had few tyre mass leaned over that far, faith in
options to dive into, and to be fair, your grip levels is paramount
probably haven’t stressed about that 3. The chunky profile of the front
too much. Longevity and stability looks as good as it performs
rank higher than side grip and drive traction for
these riders – or do they? Metzeler has spotted
a hole in the market and gone for a niche within
a niche and it’s so sure it’s a top angle, it set us
free on road and track to find out for ourselves.
Showers of sparks ensued – and a thorough test
of a tyre across a range of situations.
For a start, it was freezing. When this launch
was planned from Queensland, the heady
heights of New South Wales’ Southern Highlands
seemed a good option: and that it is for the
variety of excellent biking roads on offer around
Robertson, Kangaroo Valley and sunny Goulburn.
Unfortunately it also collided with the onset of
winter, and it was freezing. Hand numbing, nose
running, excessive piss-stop-inducing freezing.
In other words, a top test for tyres – and Metzeler
wasn’t afraid to give us every opportunity to run
them through their paces.
The variety of machinery on hand was
breathtaking. The f leet consisted of the
target market for the new rubber: two Harley-
Davidson FXDRs, a Honda Goldwing, Yamaha’s
wicked little Bolt, a Harley-Davidson Heritage
Softail and everything else that might wear the
cruiser-focussed rubber.
The plan was to brave the wind and cold of
the Southern Highlands, before hitting the
Pheasant Wood circuit in Marulan to test the
grip and tyre feel in tyre tearing weather. There
was the promise of a watered down track, too, as
wet-weather performance is an important angle
for Metzeler. Cruiser riders are, after all, likely
to encounter all weather in the big rides they are
inclined to take – particularly the likes of Softail
Heritage and Honda Goldwing riders who roam
far and wide across this country.
I found myself Goldwing mounted for the first
freeway run, and the fresh Cruisetec rubber
76 amcn.com.au
ON THE
GOLDWING THE
CRUISETEC
RUBBER FELT
GET STRUCTURED
METZELER'S CRUISETEC range runs both radial and cross-ply
structures, coupled with either bias or 0° steel belts depending
SOLID AND VERY on the size and target use of the various tyre sizes. Sizes vary
wildly in this segment – the sportsbike/nakedbike staple of a
Consistency
The combination of a solid tread pattern with constant-curvature
contours and dual-compound layout results in even wear and
tyre contour conservation to offer a consistent feel and ride.
1. Even if your American sporty
METZELER
MET
TZEL
ZELER
ER CRU
CRUISE
CRUISETEC
ISETE
TEC is not that sporty, you can have
confidence in Metzeler’s dual
compound design
2. And in the wet, you can
double that...
3. A choice of profiles can help
get the front-end feel you want
from your ride
TREAD detailed on
page 80,
coupled to a
PATTERN
conformable
carcass –
reduces
DESIGN
the need for
rider aides to
intervene.
The
progressive
It does more than
diverging groov v es
just look good offset from the
THE TREAD PATTERN
is aimed at adequate
centre section to
shoulders is aim
t thee
med att THE FEEL THE
grip and the consistent
wear required when
increasing the f ull/void
ratio in lean – essentially tyre, the long grooves CRUISETECS
applying a highly
carved design on heavy,
more rubber on n the road.
The short co n verging
don’t cross the central
section of the tyre. GIVE IS
torquey bikes. The front
tread pattern features
transversal grooves
ooves
use solid compound
Also contrary to the
front design, the rear’s DEFINITELY
HIGH END AND
alternated diverging elements, to ensure short transversal grooves
grooves crossing the quick warm-up and make are diverging, but work
PREDICTABLE
centre section, the point the most of mechanical similarly to the front hoop.
being to evacuate water grip. The rear tread The sections of
even in demanding pattern also features long compound between
wet conditions and add alternated grooves, in the grooves have been
braking efficiency. this case converging to designed to limit, but not
The de rigeur suite the rotation direction, to prevent, the deformation a bike feel new – and Metzeler knows this, so
of rider aides was distribute under-footprint of the blocks delineated the Cruisetec is designed to give that feeling.
considered here, too. pressure during rotation by the grooves, to aid
I hopped on a Harley-Davidson FXDR 114. It
Metzeler claims the without over-deflecting, tyre feel and that whole
high levels of grip – also with regular wear the final “rubber conformability”
did feel different, with slightly more ground
thanks to the compounds result. Unlike the front Metzeler aims at. clearance, thanks to a marginally taller tyre,
and the steering was direct and solid.
The Cruisetec didn’t deliver magical lean
angles or fresh approaches to riding these bikes,
2
but the solidity, and feeling of grip and steering
is top notch, even in the cold weather.
It all came together in the run up Barrengarry
Mountain out of Kangaroo Valley. I was Softail-
Heritage mounted, with a conga line of bike
journos in tow. The fast way around a corner on
the big Harleys is to turn first, then brake all the
way into the corner, turn as quickly as you can,
then drive out again. There’s little footboard
room to play with, so trusting the front end into
a public road corner is all about good vision and
good rubber.
With the new Metzelers, I felt solid all the way
into even the tightest corners. I wasn’t asking
everything of the tyre, that was for the next day
at the track, but the Cruisetec offered a lot of
78 amcn.com.au
BUT WHY?
This is what Metzeler
is aiming for
METZELER SET OUT to achieve
performance-cruising, if you will. By
creating new profi les, with higher
curvature than other tyre options in
the same segment, Metzeler wants
to offer a new level of handling and
line holding. The new tread pattern,
compound recipes and the dual-
compound rear are aimed at better
response and higher grip, even in
wet conditions. The dual-compound
rear layout – which adapts tyre
technologies from the sport-touring
world to suit the higher torque, weight
and durability – aims for higher grip
without sacrificing durability.
margin, and certainly more active feel than the There is more than enough grip from the tyres 3
standard tyres on the Heritage, a bike I’ve done on this bike.
many kilometres on. Interestingly, the fastest bike on track was
As we re-gathered at the top of the hill, sweaty the Yamaha Bolt, mainly because it has more
and grinning and looking with admiration at ground clearance and you can hang off it easier.
our loudly ticking bikes, we knew we were on a The Cruisetec tolerated the throttle being
good thing. The original rubber would not have mashed to the stop as early as possible and,
been any ‘worse’, but the feel the Cruisetecs while the Bolt doesn’t exactly crank out mind-
give is definitely high end, user-friendly and numbing power, in the cold conditions and with
predictable. No one had put a foot wrong on cold the grip on hand, even as I braked into the left
tarmac. There was always tomorrow of course. hander before sweeping up the hill to the trio of
The next day was at Marulan’s Pheasant right handers, the performance was impressive.
Wood, a fun circuit made up of a series of tight The only time the tyres got all squirmy
corners and a long left-hand sweeper, with some was hard on the brakes into the slow corners
mild undulation thrown in for good measure. before the run onto the straight. It’s here I was
Here, again on the GoldWing, I could push it reminded these aren’t a sports tyre, such as
hard on the brakes, long periods on the side of the same brand’s Sportec, on which much of
the tyre and brake as hard as I could, the hazard this tyre is based (see breakouts), however it’s
lights f lashing and with me trying to keep the unlikely this tyre will get pushed as hard as a
ABS from chiming in too early by keeping the racetrack allows. In the cold conditions, it is
braking level just on the point of activation. It clear the Cruisetec is a quality act.
got to a point where the rubber protecting me The FXDR, too, was fun to push around
from a tip over was getting touched up on ripple Pheasant Wood, with the braking into the middle
strips and the rubber wasn’t even blinking. of the corner technique the best way around.
amcn.com.au 79
MET
TZEL
ZELER
ER CRU
CRUISE
ISET
TEC
IN THE
WET THE
COMPOUNDS CRUISETEC
Colonel Metzeler’s
secret recipe WAS AS
THE FRONT COMPOUND
layer features a single- RELATIVELY
compound layout;
the recipe includes a SOLID AS IN
combination of fi llers from
the fi rm’s sport-touring
tech. Plasticisers aim
THE DRY
to enhance the way the
rubber conforms with road
surfaces, with 25-plus
percent silica making
fast warm-up a feature
and Metzeler claims the
best chemical grip of the
segment when it comes to
wet conditions.
The rear features a dual-
compound layout. The rear-
centre compound employs
a percentage of Carbon
Black close to 40 percent
– a value comparable to
that used on average in
the segment – which,
combined with a plasticiser,
aims at improved grip but
Again, it was only on long runs into the corner in behind the loudness of the exhaust.
also stability on the faster
hard on the brakes that the bike moved around, If you ride a power cruiser, tourer or custom
straights – no one wants a
wobbly cruiser. however the feel was enough to never push and want to try another level of tyre – there really
A whopping 80 percent beyond the movement and into fright territory – isn’t a competitor on the Australian market
of the upright footprint and again, this was well beyond the design brief boasting this sort of technology in this segment –
stands on the centre of the bike itself. Metzeler’s Cruisetec is a great option.
compound, which is aimed In the afternoon, Metzeler called in the
at strength and stability, an Pheasant Wood water truck, and soaked Turn
area Metzeler identified as
crucial in this market.
The shoulder compound
is similar to that used for
the front tyres. Plasticisers
One with the wet stuff, and planted some witches
hats. There was no way I was going to end the day
upside down on someone else’s bike, right where
everyone was watching, but the tyre manners
SIZE RANGE
The new Cruisetec is available
now in the following sizes
and silica result in a more when the surface was wet was good. Granted, it
malleable mix compared was a racetrack surface, with more grip than the FRONT REAR
to that used in the central average road surface, but on the short laps with MT90B16 TL 72H MU85B16 TL 77H
section, better for quick the wet surface, the Cruisetec was as relatively 130/90B16 TL REINF 73H 180/65B16 REINF TL 81H
riding through twisty solid as in the dry.
sections of road, not just
150/80-16 TL 71H 150/80B16 REINF TL 77H
Metzeler’s Cruisetec is a brave move, taking a 130/80B17 TL 65H 130/90B16 REINF TL 73H
for grip, but for better
consistency, too.
grippier, higher-performing, dual-compound tyre
130/70R18 TL 63H 180/70B16 TL 77H
to a market to whom tyre performance likely slots
130/60B19 TL 61H 180/60R16 REINF TL 80H
100/90-19 TL 57H MT90B16 TL 74H
Now you can have more
grip, and a sportier 120/70ZR19 TL (60W) 200/55R16 TL 77H
feel, on your full- 110/90-19 TL 62H 160/70B17 REINF TL 79V
dresser or cruiser... MH90-21 TL 54H 200/55R17 TL 78V
120/70B21 REINF TL 68H 180/55B18 REINF TL 80H
240/40VR18 TL (79V)
180/55ZR18 TL (74W)
150/70B18 REINF TL 76H
260/40VR18 TL (84V)
Front Rear
082 FAST
TALK
D
TROY HERFOSS
TA
S N N &
DEF
imp
E
As A
o
S
r
B
t a
K
H
n
e
t
o
n
p
n
t
d
a
ers t
r
a
t o
’s d
h
e
e
f th
fe
m
e
n
s
o
d
ss
e
st
i
a son,
ng
re v e a ls
Penrite n Troy Herfo on around
io as
champ urned his se he must
et ls
how h ming the riva
h i le n a
i s c r o wn
w i ng h
l a i m
stop c
OOPER
W HA MISH C
INTERV
IE SPORT
R AP HY TBG
G
PHOTO
W
hat will it take now to
successfully defend
your 2018 title?
Race wins! The way the points
table works is that you get 25 for a win, 20 for
second then it drops back to 18, 17, 16 for the other
finishers. So podiums don’t work. You need wins.
"IT’S REFRESHING TO
it up to WSBK level. We kept our ASBK engine
management system, as it was too complicated
to fit the WSBK-spec one. The only testing we
did was at the official WSBK test. Unfortunately SEE SO MANY GUYS
I just didn’t gel with the bike and that made the
weekend very hard for everyone. IN FOR THE WIN"
You still managed to salvage some track for me. I find it hard to win races there but
valuable ASBK points to end the last year I came away one point behind the series
meeting sixth overall. leader (he won the first race from Troy Bayliss
I was running up front in ASBK and dead last in spectacular fashion and tied with Josh
in WSBK. At no point did I feel close to Waters on 59 points to Bryan Staring’s
where I should have been. My team 60). Phillip Island is a very different
was trying so hard and it was very place when there is a championship
difficult for me to come into pit on the line. At the first round there’s
lane every three laps or so during no pressure. You find a lot of the
practice for adjustments and still privateers have ridden around the
make no progress forward. I had no Island a lot, so they are a threat
feel in the tyres or under brakes. there. That first round seems to be
crashes or good results. At the end
How did you pick yourself up of the season, from Morgan Park to
for the double win at Wakefield Winton to Phillip Island, a lot of pressure
Park? builds and it feels totally different. Also,
I couldn’t wait for the official ASBK Wakefield running the first round in summer there and the
Park test. I was asking myself: Was I riding bad? final in spring means the track temperature and
THE RIVALS
Was it the bike? I’m not joking when I say I rolled associated conditions are very different.
out of pit lane in the first test session and did a
full race distance. I ended up half a second off You came to Round Three at The Bend
Herfoss sees his main my race pace from the year before. second in the points. Last year you won
competition coming from
Cru Halliday (#65); Mike the first ever ASBK race held there and
So Phillip Island was a one-off bad set a lap record. How did things pan out
Jones (#46); Wayne
Maxwell (#47); and Bryan result? this year?
Staring (#67). Traditionally Phillip Island hasn’t been a good It was a tough weekend. We had some issues in
84 amcn.com.au
UP TO SPEED
Get up to speed ahead
of this weekend’s fourth
round of the Australian
Superbike Championship
with our Morgan Park
preview on page 123
qualifying and were far better than the results we’ve changed it over the years and I know where 1. The level of competition is
showed. I had a clutch issue in Race One and I want it to be and what I want from it. I think we such these days that ASBK
was lucky to finish (he ended up 12th, then have the best-handling bike in the paddock but I riders rival those in MotoGP
sixth in Race Two). We knew we didn’t have the know the other riders will always be able to pass for fitness
horsepower for the long main straight. I was me on long straights as we are down on power. 2. Herfoss has faith in his
one of the fastest on the track for Race Three Shaun Clarke and Glenn Granger have been with sweet-handling – but ageing
and just missed out on third. At the start of each Honda since forever and our whole team has a lot – Honda Fireblade
race it was a big drag race down the long main of experience. 3. Herfoss’ family are big
straight and our power deficit gets caught out in supporters of his racing and
this situation. Finally, there’s been so much his achievements
speculation and false starts on the
It seemed to be a bit of a crash-and- new Fireblade model. Will you get one
burn weekend with some riders next year?
appearing more concerned about a I hope it’s coming! When I was at the Suzuka 8
couple of quick laps in qualifying at Hours last year there was a lot of talk about it. We’re
the expense of a strategy to last all certainly due for an all-new Honda Fireblade.
three races. Winner Bryan Staring
described some of it as “carnage”.
amcn.com.au 85
techtalk
Let’s talk
ROADSIDE ASSIST
Roadside manner
Roadside Assist being offered as part of a new bike’s warranty
package is becoming increasingly common, but there’s plenty of
things you should know before you embark on a worry-free road trip
INTERVIEW KELLIE BUCKLEY PHOTOGRAPHY AMCN ARCHIVES
ONCE RESTRICTED TO the there’s plenty of things you need organisation, it’s money very
very premium brands, more and to be aware of before signing up well spent for the approximately
more manufacturers are offering and heading for the horizon with 1000 motorcyclists it provides
roadside assistance packages half a tank of fuel and a couple of assistance to each year.
alongside the conventional two- worn-out tyres. But like most products that
and three-year warranty periods. According to our research, a include the word ‘policy,’ we’ve
But whether the policy is supplied year’s coverage for roadside assist discovered that the more you’re
with your new bike, or you’re in can be purchased for as little as willing to spend up front, the less
the market to purchase a roadside $45 – money well spent in anyone’s you’ll have to fork out when you’re
assist policy for your existing bike, book. In fact, according to the down and out.
86 amcn.com.au
nearest dealership, depending on manufactured before a particular
the reason they couldn’t get you
back on the road.
year, then it’s not eligible to
be covered under certain IF YOUR BIKE WAS MANUFACTURED
According to the terms and
conditions of the $45 policy, if
roadside assist policies. The
aforementioned $45 policy, for BEFORE A PARTICULAR YEAR, THEN
IT’S NOT ELIGIBLE TO BE COVERED
your bike has a flat tyre, it can’t be example, won’t provide roadside
repaired roadside and must be assist coverage to any bike older
towed. And while the $45 policy than 15 years, which means if
does offer you two free callouts your bike was manufactured
each year for your money, if you before 2003, then you’ll need to
have a flat battery and the helpful look elsewhere. The $236 policy
assistance can’t get you going has no age restrictions.
with a jump start, then your For new bike buyers who
second callout gets eaten up with receive roadside assist cover as
the arrival of a tow truck, and part of their warranty package,
you’re on your own for the rest of be sure to work out if your home
the year until it resets. With the and your nearest dealership
$236 policy, however, you get as fall within the specifi ed free-of-
much assistance as you require. charge distance. If not, negotiate
a solution with your dealer into
Stuff they don’t the purchase of your bike.
tell you
There’s plenty of things to be The verdict
aware of when you’re buying Ultimately, most people will be
your policy – not least when you covered in most situations by
fi nd yourself stranded on the the very many less-expensive
side of the road and you think roadside assist policies available
it’s the perfect time to ring and to Australian riders. But if the
purchase membership, hoping to riding you do takes you to
be rescued shortly after. Almost remote places, or it’s important
every roadside assist policy will that you and your pillion will
stipulate a waiting period before be guaranteed either alternate
the assistance can be called transport or accommodation
upon. In the case of the $45 policy until your particular issue
we researched, it’s 10 days. For is resolved, then consider
the $236 policy, it’s 24 hours. spending a little more when
There’s also age limits applied you’re buying a roadside assist
to vehicles in some cases. cover. Because if you ever need
This means if your bike was it, it’d be worth every cent.
amcn.com.au 87
s WORDS & PHOTOGRAPHY
SUZUK
2
1
Your adventure.
Our policy.
PRICE GUIDE
NEW PRICE
$11,290
SECONDHAND
$2900 – $4300
The
low-down
SERVICE COSTS L to R: EFI and
The 2003 Suzuki SV650S a host of other
service intervals are every changes in 2003
6000km. The first service made a big
would set you back around difference; as did
$300 – $350, and involved a modern instruments
general lube and adjustment of
cables and chain, as well as the
standard engine oil and filter
replacement, but the throttle
bodies were also checked for
balance which added another
half hour or so to the labour
cost. The second service
at 12,000km was similar to
the 6000km one, with the
spark plugs getting replaced
for around $250 – $300. At
18,000km, the coolant came in
for replacement, as did the air
filter along with new engine oil
and filter etc for $350 – $400.
The major 24,000km service
saw the SV650S get new spark
plugs, oil and filter but the
valve clearances also came
in for inspection/adjustment.
IN 2003 SUZUKI RELEASED A COMPLETE
This would add an extra
$200-odd onto the cost of the
18,000km service.
MAKEOVER OF THE SV650S
But the biggest change was undoubtedly different triple-clamps with less offset, to give it
WHAT TO reserved for the engine. The new engine still slight advantage in the quick-steer stakes. The
LOOK FOR retained the 90°, 81 x 62.6mm dimensions with SV650 also sported a longer wheelbase (1440mm
The 2003 incarnation of the 31mm intake and 25.5mm exhaust valves, but vs 1430mm) thanks to its longer chain, which
SV650S has quite a good came with the addition of fuel injection and the also gave the rear wheel an extra 3mm of travel at
reputation as far as reliability Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) system. Lighter 137mm. The pegs were also 5mm higher on the
and longevity is concerned. conrods, revised valve timing and a new set of SV650S over the SV650.
The 2004 edition, while being camshafts helped to reduce weight, and the new The suspension package copped a small
more or less the same machine, model came with the addition of an oil cooler and upgrade with the addition of adjustable preload
had a lowered subframe by
a much bigger airbox, up from 5.8 to 8.5 litres. A at the front-end, but the same rear shock from
40mm for better pillion comfort
but this seemed to have the
new exhaust system was also fitted to the SV650S, the original model remained. The brakes were not
added effect of delivering now equipped with a catalytic convertor and exactly the best of the day either, with only twin-
excessive heat from the rear Suzuki’s PAIR (Pulsed Air Injection System) to piston calipers gripping twin 290mm discs up the
cylinder to the rider’s bum. The reduce emissions. front and a single-piston caliper slotting over a
fairing-mounted mirrors came The engine still produced the same claimed 220mm disc at the back, with feel at the lever not
in for some attention as they power of the 1999-2002 model of 51kW at one of the SV’s strong points.
tended to rattle, which made 9000rpm and 61.7Nm of torque at 7000rpm but The SV650S came with an RRP of $11,290
vision an issue. Some owners power application was said to be much smoother back in 2003, placing it right in the middle of
have opted for bar-mounted
than the outgoing model, as well as more the class with the larger capacity ZR7 Kawasaki
items to cure this.
The original SV650 vanished
consistent through the rev range. retailing for $10,790 and the Ducati 620ie selling
in 2010 with the introduction Interestingly, the SV650 and SV650S differed in for $11,795. Hitting the open road on the SV650S
of the unfortunately named more ways than just the removal of the fairing. was not an issue either. The machine came
Gladius, but was reintroduced The SV650 had an extra tooth on the rear sprocket equipped with some well-placed grab rails that
in 2018 when Suzuki jumped for snappier power at lower revs, while the sport- made tying down luggage easy and pillions were
on the cafe-racer bandwagon focussed SV650S copped a slightly reduced well accommodated for what was essentially a
with a modern retro version. steering trail of 100mm vs 102mm thanks to sportsbike with touring capabilities.
The Bell Scout The new Oxford The Macna Command Andy Strapz has The K&N KA-1003 air Promoto OOggy
Air is a cruiser Continental Plus is a short cut, developed a frame filter to suit Kawasaki Knobbs ($$195), Axle
helmet with an combination is classically styled set ($370) to suit Z-series models (750, Oggys ($999), Case
innovative ‘In-mold’ designed to keep jacket with a zip-out KTM 790 Adventure 800 and 1000) from Savers ($99) and
construction you warm and dry, thermal inner and a models, allowing 2003-2016 has been Fender Eliminators
combining a ‘Tri- thanks to thermal waterproof lining. It fitment of Avduro 2 designed to increase ($169) are now
Matrix’ composite and waterproof liners features a poly-twill panniers ($475 per airflow to the inline available to suit the
shell with an internal and a breathable nylon outer shell, set or $525 per set four-cylinder engine 2019 Hon nda CB650R.
EPS liner, resulting membrane. Features Aquastop ventilation with liners). The for better breathing Australian
n designed
in lightweight (900g) include stretch zippers in the chest strong but lightweight resulting in improved and manu ufactured
protection. There are panels, vents, and back, CE-certified frames can be fitted performance. The Oggy Kno obbs
five shell sizes, two drawstrings and armour for the elbows in minutes and easily filter’s pleated cotton products are all direct
snap-in visors and connection zips. The and shoulders, and removed when not media is washable bolt-on co
omponents,
an accessory shield pants are $399.95 a back-protector needed, and they and reusable, and it and are alll made from
is available. Matte and jacket is $479.95 pocket. Black or can also be used with also offers excellent premium-quality
Black in XS-2XL. (in grey or fluro). Camo in sizes S-3XL. other soft bags. filtration properties. materials.
1 2 3 4 5
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Top 3 TV
JULY 2019
WSBK Rd8 Mark your diary
Donington, On this day
UK, LIVE
Videopass, Fox Don’t forget your mum’s birthday Go ridin’
6-7 July
11pm (AEST) 4 Daijiro 5 6 WSBK Rd8
WSBK heads to Donington Park Kato 6-7 July, Donington Park, UK
for Round 8 and all the racing Sorely missed
action will be aired live on MotoGP star
Videopass. Superbike Race 1 was born this
starts at 11pm Saturday and Race
day in 1976
2 at 11pm Sunday. The Supersport
race starts at 9.15pm Sunday.
7 MotoGP Rd9 8 9
¡
MotoGP Sachsenring, DE
Rd9, DE
LIVE
Videopass, Fox
7 July
7pm (AEST)
10 11 12
Round 9 of the MotoGP World
Championship takes place at the
Sachsenring in Germany. The
Moto3 race starts at 7pm, Moto2
at 8.20pm and MotoGP at 10pm.
Videopass and Fox air all races
Happy Birthday
Luigi Dall’Igna, 12/07/1966
while 10 Bold airs MotoGP only.
13 14 15
¢
WSBK Rd9
Laguna
Seca, LIVE
Videopass, Fox WSBK Rd9
14-15 July 13-14 July,
7am (AEST) Laguna Seca, US
Backing up just a week after the
UK round, the WSBK crew heads 16 17 18
to Laguna Seca in California
Next ON
for Round 9. Race 1 will air on Happy issue
SALE
Thursday
Videopass at 7am on Sunday
and Race 2 at 7am on Monday.
Birthday Check out 18 July
Kevin Magee, below
Supersport gets the weekend off.
16/07/1962
NEXT
ISSUE!
THE DAY BILL IVY DIED
Fifty years after
motorcycle racing’s
original rock star met his
end, we find out exactly
what happened on
that fateful day, thanks
to a fascinating and
morbid cache of recently
revealed documents
events
YOUR SOCIAL LISTINGS
Phillip Island Ride Days / Champion’s Ride Days Phoenix MCC Top Rider Sandown, Vic
20-21 JULY 1300 793 423 (07) 3287 4144 Junior Coaching 1300 131 362
Lowood Swap, Lowood Showgrounds, Ridedays WA
Phillip Island, Vic Broadford, Vic 0417 821 061 SMSP, NSW (08) 9409 1002
Lindemans Rd, Lowood, Qld. Vendors from Sydney Motorsport Park Winton, Vic Tailem Bend, SA Mount Gambier MCC Barbagallo, WA
2pm Saturday; gates open 6am Sunday. Ride Days/1300 366 640 Wakefield Park, NSW Mallala, SA Coaching / Ride Days Collie, WA
Vendors $10 per site; general admission SMSP, NSW Qld Raceway, Qld California Superbike (08) 8725 0163 Trakdayz
$5 (partners and children free). Meals and Murray Valley Training Co Barbagallo, WA School / 1300 793 423 Mac Park, SA 0401 484 898
refreshments available. Motorcycles only; no 0459 415 787 Lakeside, Qld Phillip Island, Vic Ride-Tek MTA Barbagallo, WA
dogs and no bric-a-brac. Hosted by Historical Barnawartha North, Vic Mallala, SA SMSP, NSW 1300 788 382
Motorcycle Club Qld. For information phone
Darryl Harris on 0425 174 258 or email Racing where & when
darryl49@bigpond.com.
20-21 JULY Road racing Rd8 27-28 Jul, Moree, NSW Rd6 21-23 Sep, Shrewsbury, UK
Baffle Creek Car/Bike Muster, Cnr Coast & MOTOGP WORLD C’SHIP Rd9-10 3-4 Aug, Coolum, Qld Rd7 5-7 Oct, Solsona, ES
Ferfield Rds, Baffle Creek, Qld. Entertainment, Rd9 7 Jul, Sachsenring, DE AORC Rd8 3 Nov, GetzenRodeo, DE
food and bar from 4pm Saturday; gates open Rd10 4 Aug, Brno, CZ Rd 5-6 20-21 Jul, Kyogle, NSW FIM SPEEDWAY GP
Rd11 11 Aug, Red Bull Ring, AT Rd7 10-11 Aug, Broken Hill, NSW Rd4 6 Jul, Hallstavik, SE
6.30am Sunday for competitors and 9am for Rd12 25 Aug, Silverstone, UK Rd8-9 31 Aug-1 Sep, Coonalpyn, SA Rd5 3 Aug, Wroclaw, PL
public. Entertainment, prizes, raffles, markets Rd13 15 Sep, Misano, IT Rd10-1114-15 Sep, Penshurst, Vic Rd6 17 Aug, Malilla, SE
(site fee $10), food and bar. Early-bird entries Rd14 22 Sep, Motorland Aragon, ES AUSTRALIAN SUPERCROSS C’SHIP Rd7 31 Aug, Teterow, DE
$10; entry $15 on the day. For information Rd15 6 Oct, Chang International, TH Rd1 12 Oct, TBC, Qld Rd8 7 Sep, Vojens, DK
phone Brian Lamb on 0408 541 494 or email Rd16 20 Oct, Twin Ring Motegi, JP Rd2 19 Oct, TBC, SA Rd9 21 Sep, Cardiff, UK
vehiclemuster@gmail.com. Rd17 27 Oct, Phillip Island, AU Rd3 9 Nov, Wollongong, NSW Rd10 5 Oct, Torun, PL
Rd18 3 Nov, Sepang, MY Rd4 TBC FIM SPEEDWAY OF NATIONS
27 JULY Rd19 17 Nov, Ricardo Tormo Valencia, ES Rd5 30 Nov, Melbourne, Vic 20-21 July, Togliatti, RU
Relay for Life Classic Car & Bike Show, WORLD SUPERBIKE C’SHIP FIM MXGP/MX2 AUSTRALIAN SENIOR TRACK C’SHIP
Seafront Oval, Hervey Bay, Pialba, Qld. 2pm- Rd8 6-7 Jul, Donington Park, UK Rd13 7 Jul, Palembang, ID 24-25 Aug, Mildura, Vic
5pm. People’s choice and sponsors’ choice Rd9 13-14 Jul, Laguna Seca, US Rd14 14 Jul, Semarang, ID AUSTRALIAN POST CLASSIC DIRT
trophies, music, food vendors and more. Car Rd10 7-8 Sep, Algarve, PT Rd15 28 Jul, Loket, CZ TRACK C’SHIP
Rd11 28-29 Sep, Magny-Cours, FR Rd16 4 Aug, Lommel, BE 7-8 Sep, Maryborough, Qld
and bike entry $5; public entry free. For more
Rd12 12-13 Oct, El Villicum, AR Rd17 18 Aug, Imola, IT AUSTRALIAN JUNIOR DIRT TRACK
information phone Sue Dodd on 0412 753 773 Rd13 25-26 Oct, Losail, QT Rd18 25 Aug, Uddevala, SE C’SHIP
or check out the event’s Facebook page at ASBK Rd19 8 Sep, Afyonkarahisar, TR 28-29 Sep, Somersby, NSW
facebook.com/events/544541542725736/ Rd4 6-7 Jul, Morgan Park, Qld Rd20 15 Sep, Shanghai, CN AUSTRALIAN SENIOR DIRT TRACK
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Guest column
PHIL BRANAGAN
Rossi is not a
Who in Moto2 would rule out a swift step a win or two left in him. But let’s be brutally
up to The Show in favour of another season honest; a title? Against Marc Marquez and
Hitting home
WHEN I CAME back home from the UK last year I didn’t think I’d crucial points of the track.
be able to get a job in the Australian motorcycle industry. That Over here, with data logging equipment having to be removed
all changed when I went to a test day at Winton to catch up with before racing, it’s not seen as important, but I believe it plays a
Kelvin Reilly (Kawasaki BCperformance Racing Team) to see how crucial role in developing a rider. When you go to a more powerful
their Kawasaki was going. bike, a rider has to relearn the circuits and develop different
I got talking to Troy Bayliss, who told me about the plan to entry and exit points. I could write a whole column on what these
take his son Oli into the Supersport 600 class, now that MA had changes involve to become competitive in a new class. Data
lowered the rider age. I was still crew chief for Jake Dixon and logging is a valuable tool for this.
the RAF Regular & Reserve Kawasaki team in BSB Oli’s adapting well. He’s fourth in the championship.
Superbikes and flying back and forth from Australia The next challenge is to get regular podiums.
to attend the meetings. We were a privateer People are already asking me if Oli will race
Oli’s
team but still managed to come second in the overseas. He’s very young, so let’s just see how
championship. the season goes.
proved he’s
Jake wanted me to go with him to Moto2 I first went to the UK in 1998 when I was
this year but I felt I couldn’t do the job 23 years old. There wasn’t much support
strong enough
properly based in Australia. Fortunately, the for my racing in Australia, but that all
Bayliss family needed a crew chief for Oli changed in the UK. I quickly found myself
class
what I hope will be a career in rider training These days there are two directions
and mentoring of young riders. a young rider can go; if you want to end
Looking after Oli for Cube Racing has been up in MotoGP you need to move to Spain
a big change for both of us. He’s only 15 years old and get there through their domestic Moto3
but had already physically outgrown Supersport championship, then Moto2. The other way to go is
300. Oli’s already proved he’s mentally and physically WSBK, which means going to the UK and starting off in
strong enough for the Supersport 600 class. BSB Supersport, then maybe World Supersport.
It’s quite a different situation for me. When I was crew chief These are big decisions for a young rider, and his or her
in the UK, I had two mechanics, an electronics technician, a family and supporters. I want to be a part of the next generation
tyre specialist and access to the Öhlins truck. Now it’s just me of young Australian riders. I’ve started working with Chas
and mechanic Jono Stewart at the meetings. Troy Bayliss and Hern’s Murray Valley Training Centre. I’m getting the relevant
I build the bikes while Ben Henry (Cube Racing owner) builds Australian qualifications so I can run coaching clinics for riders
the engines. of all ages, especially juniors.
My hands-on technical role hasn’t given me as much time as I really think I can achieve something in this field.
I’d like to help Oli develop his riding. This had been one of my Meanwhile, I’m finding my present role as crew chief and
important roles when I was a crew chief in the UK. mentor is giving me huge job satisfaction. It’s a long way from
Over there data logging is a tool riders use as an important when I first returned home, thinking I would never find a role in
guide. It can tell you exactly how a rider is using the bike at Australian motorcycling.
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In Pit Lane
MICHAEL SCOTT
Marquez
The example of the rider whose “youngest- need to worry about. Or not the only one.
ever” records he took might be taken as After a long spell when everybody
shows no sign
salutary. Freddie Spencer had won three thought the sport would die on its feet
titles by the time he turned 23, and when Rossi retired, then another six years
of running out
thereafter never won another GP. Marquez when Marquez dominated pretty much
shows no sign of running out of steam, but everything, there are encouraging signs of
of steam. But
then neither did the sublimely talented renewal and growth.
Freddie, when he secured a unique 250-500 Suzuki’s Alex Rins is just 23, has already
neither did
double in 1985. won one race on a bike that is nominally too
Actually, this is just scare-mongering, slow to be a proper threat. Pecco Bagnaia,
Freddie
particularly two weeks after writing about at 22, hasn’t lived up to expectations,
the super strength of the newly mature having turned into a serial crasher... but his
Marquez. And there is a different example that immaculate 2018 Moto2 title suggests that he’ll
suggests the opposite. Valentino Rossi is in his 40s, get over it and become a big threat.
and still a factor. He might find it harder to win races… At the same time, Jack Miller and Maverick Viñales
indeed impossible for the past 24 months, but it doesn’t stop are only 24, and race winners in MotoGP.
him trying. And sometimes coming desperately close. Furthermore, Moto2’s acquisition of more advanced
But the tide of youth syndrome is real enough, threatening machinery is also promising more than before. The 765cc
others perhaps more than Marquez, and embodied most Triumph-powered bikes not only have more electronics and
particularly by the remarkable Fabio Quartararo, who only close-ratio gearboxes, but enough power for the riders to find
at the last race missed his chance of deposing Marquez as different ways to express themselves, and learn new tricks.
the youngest-ever premier-class race winner. This was in The likes of Lorenzo Baldassarri, Jorge Navarro, Luca Marini
Catalunya, where he started from pole for the second time in his and (finally) Alex Marquez are backed by Brad Binder, Remy
debut season, and finished a fighting second. Gardner and the rest.
The young Frenchman, who at just 20 is both cheeky and Hope the petrol lasts long enough for them to pose their own
pretty funny, has been astonishing. He’s not just challenging threat to MotoGP’s oldies.
race report
YOUR FORTNIGHTLY FIX
Mi W ld Ci i 3 June 2019 WorldSBK Championship
Narrow margins
Just when we thought Alvaro Bautista was running away with the title…
REPORT GORDON RITCHIE PHOTOGRAPHY GOLD&GOOSE
F
or a rider who won a won every race; some were in two races and this is not Bautista and his engineers
race and still leads crowning him after four acceptable,” said Bautista. would like? Ducati top bosses
the championship, rounds. Others thought that, “I lost 48 points, because have always said that without
Alvaro Bautista left given the way it exits corners it is possible to win both Bautista they would not be
the stadium-style and how quickly Bautista had races (Jerez 2 and Misano winning right now, and that
circuit of Misano angry with found a happy and repeatable 2). But this is for learning. case is hardening into reality
himself. He finished third in place with its set-up, the new I am a rookie in this class as the season has now crossed
a wet Race One, won the short Ducati V4 R was unbeatable. and maybe now is the first over into the second half.
Superpole Race with a margin Sure, he may have been the two races that between the The weather conditions
and was leading the finale on only Ducati rider in a field of Superpole race and race two on Saturday only cancelled
Sunday when he once again four to, along with his crew, there is more difference in one race for a time – an hour
inexplicably fell while leading. really got it sorted from Round the track conditions.” in all was the delay – so at
It was a genuinely dramatic one. But even when things Bautista’s point is that this round there was no loss
moment and, as the Aruba. looked bleak, Jonathan Rea at Jerez and Misano, the of a race to the weather. We
it Racing Ducati star had a kept pushing and the cracks temperature changed should have had 21 individual
similar experience in the have started to appear in the between the Sunday sprint races so far but we have had
previous round at Jerez, his Ducati-shaped armoury. and then longer race, and his 19, after snow at Assen and
only realistic championship Now, on tracks that suit starting fuel load would have then precipitation at Imola.
rival Jonathan Rea has moved the Italian V4 less than some doubled and more, meaning Although the unexpected
to within 16 points. might, mixed perhaps with his bike had changing news of the championship
It has been a year of the a tinge of over-confidence, circumstances to deal with. being blown open is great
unthinkable, not just the Bautista has a fight on his Maybe that peerlessly for the neutrals, and good
crashes, but his dominant hands. And he knows it. powerful new V4 R is a bit news for Bautista’s only rival,
start to the season. Until “I am angry with myself tricky to handle, with smaller Rea was not immune from
Round five at Imola, Bautista because I made two mistakes window of perfection than the loss of points at times
106 amcn.com.au
Track Attack
Main. Jonny Rea returned to his celebratory best with two wins in Italy 1. Alvaro Bautista ruled the
Superpole race but was not at his best when it counted 2. Ducatis were everywhere and so were the fans
WorldSBK
3. Tom Sykes and BMW are starting to look contender-ish 4. Alex Lowes had an up-and-down weekend; he led Misano World Circuit
11
the first race in the wet... 5. ...and might have won it until this crash. Then he finished P2 and P4 on Sunday 12
8 16
13
15
1 10
9
14
5 2
6
3
Round 7
Finishing positions
Race 1
→1
POS RIDER
J REA
NAT
GBR
BIKE TIME
KAW 32m16.526s
2 T SYKES GBR BMW +3.592s
3 A BAUTISTA SPA DUC +7.756s
4 L BAZ FRA YAM +12.932s
5 C DAVIES GBR DUC +15.801s
6 M MELANDRI ITA YAM +41.963s
7 S CORTESE GER YAM +45.976s
8 Y TAKAHASHI JPN HON +46.479s
9 L ZANETTI ITA DUC +47.695s
10 L MERCADO ARG KAW +48.026s
11 A DELBIANCO ITA HON +49.700s
12 J TORRES SPA KAW +49.833s
13 S CAVALIERI ITA DUC +1m08.793s
14 R KIYONARI JPN HON +1m13.510s
15 M REITERBERGER GER BMW +1m36.134s
DNF T RAZGATLIOGLU (TUR, KAW), L HASLAM (GBR,
KAW), M RINALDI (ITA, DUC), A LOWES (GBR, YAM), M
2 3 PIRRO (ITA, DUC), D SCHMITTER (SUI, YAM)
POLE POSITION
J REA 1m34.596s
FASTEST LAP
J REA 1m46.130s
Round 7
Finishing positions
Superpole Race
POS RIDER NAT BIKE TIME
1 A BAUTISTA SPA DUC 16m01.109s
2 A LOWES GBR YAM +7.261s
3 L HASLAM GBR KAW +9.154s
4 T RAZGATLIOGLU TUR KAW +9.405s
4 5 5 J REA GBR KAW +12.835s
6 M MELANDRI ITA YAM +13.056s
7 M RINALDI ITA DUC +13.668s
8 M PIRRO ITA DUC +15.104s
9 L MERCADO ARG KAW +17.310s
FASTEST LAP
A BAUTISTA 1m35.169s
Round 7
Finishing positions
Race 2
POS RIDER NAT BIKE TIME
1 J REA GBR KAW 34m06.731s
2 T RAZGATLIOGLU TUR KAW +0.381s
3 L HASLAM GBR KAW +5.880
4 A LOWES GBR YAM +6.203
for the CIV round at Imola like we’re constantly progressing sending us both flying into the 1 A BAUTISTA 330, 2 J REA 314, 3 M VAN DER
MARK 188, 4 A LOWES 164, 5 L HASLAM 153, 6 T
and the WorldSBK round at and improving, so let’s see what gravel. Unfortunately my left RAZGATLIOGLU 121, 7 M MELANDRI 117, 8 C DAVIES
Donington Park.” happens at Donington Park.” forearm was fractured.” 114, 9 T SYKES 110, 10 S CORTESE 93.
amcn.com.au 107
race
report
Round 7 Misano World Circuit, Italy, 21-23 June 2019 WorldSBK Championship
either in Misano. He started Bautista was down in sixth difference to Rea, who something of a recent slump
well, and set Superpole by a in that weird water-park race maximised on Bautista’s in form and bad luck –
margin of 0.355sec to his next before rallying and finding nearly no-score. The Spanish including a massive highside,
nearest rival, and Bautista other people having issues in rider had remounted in the a dislocated thumb and
was only fifth. front of him to go third. final race and took two points no-score on Saturday – to take
He won the opening race He won the sprint when for 14th, but it was Rea’s day – two third places on Sunday.
on Saturday afternoon Rea had his own asphalt eventually – on Sunday. Three Kawasakis on a
after another wet weather interaction (albeit before “It is unfortunate for him,” podium all together is hardly
performance that proved recovering to finish fifth) but said Rea of Bautista’s latest commonplace but in 1993
masterly, although the on Sunday Rea worked hard fall. “But he is not invincible, in Race Two at Sugo, four
unfortunate Alex Lowes and effectively to score the it looks. Of course it is always Kawasaki riders filled the
(Pata Yamaha) may have won win, under pressure from his costly when you make the top-four placings. With
himself, had he not suddenly ‘own side’. mistake, and I picked up the Razgatlioglu scoring a
found a new patch of wet road Toprak Razgatlioglu pieces. I never ‘won’ the race; it podium in each round since
while leading. (Turkish Puccetti Racing) has was not a dominant race win. Imola, and Haslam making
The weather at Misano nearly a factory bike inside a The strongest guy was in the up ground in set-up, maybe
covered most of the seasons, satellite team, but he rode like gravel, like Jerez Race Two.” all-Kawasaki podiums is
with a hot Friday, initially he had been on a factory bike Rea did win the Sunday something that we should
a dry then stormy and wet for years as he led for the vast afternoon race, making it an start getting more used to.
Saturday afternoon, with majority of the laps in Race extended all time best score Other top three men in
lighting storms and seemingly Two – in reality the third and of 75 career wins, and he also Misano included Lowes, who
ceaseless rain, making for last race of the weekends now. clicked over onto 150 podium was second in the sprint race,
three goes at the first race. Rea and Razgatlioglu had a finishes in WorldSBK. All this and so nearly in the second
One race was delayed, one thrilling contest that was only from 262 starts. full distance race, finishing
started then stopped, and one just won, with a margin of On a day of many unusual just 0.3sec from Haslam.
became an 18-lapper, down victory for Rea of 0.381sec. happenings Leon Haslam As notable as the form of
from the planned 21. That win made all the (KRT) recovered from The Usual Winners – maybe
108 amcn.com.au
Main. The Men in Green were fast, with Rea winning again 1. Toprak Razgatlioglu continues to scare the
hell out of the factory squads on the Independent Kawa 2. Alex Lowes looks set to take third over in the
points, if he has a good UK round 3. Leon Haslam had a solid weekend and could be a threat at Donington
THE NEW BMW MOTORRAD TEAM GOT ITS Let the old times roll
amcn.com.au 109
race Main. Krummenacher fought off Caricasulo
report
– just – for the win 1. Mahias, R, was third but
nearly pinched the win 2. The lack of straights
at Misano made the Kawasaki a contender
Round 7 Misano World Circuit, Italy, 21-23 June 2019 WorldSSP Championship
Mahias (Kawasaki Puccetti arts, and possibly surprised a horrible Saturday to another 24 P HOBELSBERGER GER YAM +1m00.194s
25 M CANDUCCI ITA YAM +1m14.398s
Racing) got to within 0.161sec the race stewards were not top five finish. Local wildcard 26 A GYORFI HUN YAM +1m14.499s
of the win himself. involved – especially after rider Lorenzo Gabellini 27 I VIÑALES SPA YAM +1m17.907s
Krummenacher, now a four- some recent penalties for added colour on his GOMMA DNF A BADOVINI (ITA, KAW), G SCONZA (ITA, HON), R DE ROSA
(ITA, MVA), J VAN SIKKELERUS (NED, HON), C PEROLARI (FRA,
time race winner and three- Superbike riders. Racing Yamaha in sixth ahead YAM), M HERRERA (SPA, YAM, DQ)
time second place finisher in “I knew it was going to be a of Hannes Soomer (MPM POLE POSITION
110 amcn.com.au
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race report
YOUR FORTNIGHTLY FIX
Round 8 Assen TT Circuit, Netherlands 28-30 June 2019 MotoGP World Championship
YAMAHA'S LONG WAIT is The factory Monster Energy into second LCR Honda rider a calculating race to take
over. After eight barren races team rider was not the only Takaaki Nakagami on the second, comfortably ahead of
and a sea of doubts, Maverick YZR-M1 rider to shine. His way into the fast Stekkenwal his main championship rivals.
Viñales washed away the pain win only just eclipsed the corner. Both were out and Marquez said later “I knew
with a convincing victory at remarkable weekend of super- the Japanese was worryingly I couldn’t win today because
classic Assen. rookie Fabio Quartararo prone for a while, though he we always struggle here with
It came for the Spaniard (Petronas Sprinta Yamaha), escaped serious injury. the direction changes, and
one race after he’d expected it, who had qualified on pole for a Rossi ran to check the fallen because the Yamahas were
after he was knocked flying by second successive race, led for rider, and later apologised. “I very, very fast.” But he chose
Jorge Lorenzo at Montmelo a 12 laps (more than any other was maybe off line, and I lost a soft rear tyre, the only front-
fortnight before. But it proved rider) and finished third, for a the front,” he said. runner to do so, to make sure
what he had thought possible second podium in a row. The race was disastrous also he could be well-placed in the
there, that “somehow we’ve And with second satellite- for fancied runner Alex Rins, early laps, and in a position to
found a good set-up for races.” team rider Franco Morbidelli second last year, who took an hang on to the finish.
It helped that the Yamahas placed fifth after a strong early lead from the front row, After Viñales took the
thrive on the high-speed closing run to split the only to tumble off the Ecstar lead on lap 16, it looked like
changes of direction that still factory Ducatis, it was some Suzuki on the third of 26 laps. Marquez was trying to fight
characterise the only circuit compensation for a disastrous But maybe the biggest back, but he wasn’t; “I was just
to have hosted a GP every year weekend for the marque’s winner of the weekend using his slipstream to make
since 1949, in spite of the 2006 biggest star turn. Valentino was Marc Marquez (Repsol a gap, so I didn’t have to fight
changes cutting its length and Rossi had qualified 14th and Honda), who had missed the with Quartararo at the end.”
introducing a very slow first had made his way to 11th after front row of the grid for the He probably wouldn’t have
to-and-fro loop. four laps when he clattered first time all season, but rode had to anyway. The 20-year-
112 amcn.com.au
Main. Whether he was on the limit or not, Marquez had no answer to Viñales and chased him home 1. Lap 1
and Suzuki led Suzuki, before it all went south for Alex Rins 2. Frankie Morbidelli stormed home to a career-
best fifth place 3. Rossi and Nakagami fought for 11th until it ended in tears 4. Fabio dominated the first half Track Attack
of the race despite headshakes on his Yamaha 5. Jack Miller had a ‘boring’ race after early tyre troubles
MotoGP
Assen TT Circuit, Netherlands
11
8 9 10 12
7 13
6
14
15
3 16
4
17
2 5
2
Circuit length
4.542km
Race distance
MotoGP 118.092km
Moto2 109.008km
Moto3 99.924km
2018 winners
MotoGP Marc Marquez
→ 41m13.863s
Moto2 Francesco Bagnaia
39m30.436s
Moto3 Jorge Martin
38m56.485s
1 3 Did you know?
While Remy Gardner’s quest
to be the next Australian racer
4 to join the list of winners in the
Intermediate GP class goes on,
he put himself in pretty good
company at Assen anyway. Apart
from becoming the first Aussie
to start a Moto2 race from pole
position, he is the fourth to take
a pole in the intermediate class.
John Dodds was the first to take
a 250cc pole for Yamaha in 1971,
followed seven years later by
Kawasaki’s Gregg Hansford and
Casey Stoner, who took his first
pole on an Aprilia in 2005.
Round 8
Finishing positions
MOTOGP
26 LAPS
was coming round every jumping out of gear in the F QUARTARARO 1m32.017s
time I opened the gas. slow corners. I was looking FASTEST LAP
M MARQUEZ 1m33.712s
And I was getting pushed at the top three when I got a
RIDER STANDINGS AFTER 8 OF 19 ROUNDS
off line by the wind. But I neutral and ran into the dirt, 1 MARQUEZ 160, 2 DOVIZIOSO 116, 3 PETRUCCI 108,
never lost a position in the lost 10 places. Pushing like a 4 RINS 101, 5 ROSSI 72, 6 QUARTARARO 67,
race, so I’ll take it as just maniac to get back I lost it at 7 VIÑALES 65, 8 MILLER 60, 9 P ESPARGAGO 52,
10 CRUTCHLOW 51, 11 NAKAGAMI 48, 12 MORBIDELLI
one of those days.” the last corner.”
45, 13 A ESPARGAGO 31, 14 MIR 30, 15 LORENZO 19.
amcn.com.au 113
race
report
Round 8 Assen TT Circuit, Netherlands 28-30 June 2019 MotoGP World Championship
old Frenchman had been into major grip problems and At that point, both were With three laps to go, very
woken by pain on the night Petrucci succumbed to the happy to let the youngster set aware “that Maverick was 100
before from his right arm, rapidly closing Morbidelli. the pace, while Viñales made points from me, Quartararo
where less than three weeks Rins had leapt off the line, several errors under braking 89 points, and Dovizioso, Rins
before he’d undergone surgery with Mir and Quartararo for the tight first corner and and Petrucci were behind
for arm-pump problems. chasing him over the first running wide, though he was me”, Marquez backed off, and
“I wasn’t sure I could couple of laps, while Viñales always able to make it up again Viñales claimed the win by
finish the race,” he said. But and Marquez changed places quite easily. almost five seconds.
painkiller pills had helped, close behind, the factory Though conditions had “As I crossed the line, I felt
even though “when Viñales Ducatis in pursuit. cooled slightly from the a lot of pressure leave me,” he
came past me I was finished.” Hopes of an ultra-close morning, there was a stiff said. “I have had some dark
In parc ferme, his arm paint-swapping battle like wind, and Quartararo was times, but here from Friday
was visibly swollen, as he last year’s came to naught, suffering badly, several times I felt strong, and we worked
applied an ice-pack, and however. A distraught Rins having to shut the throttle on hard for the last laps.”
expressed hope it would be was out on lap three, losing the the back straight to regain The battle for fourth had
less problematic in Germany front into Der Bult left-hander control of severe tank-slapping livened up after half distance,
in a week’s time, with a mainly at the furthest point of the wobbles. On lap 11 Marquez after Petrucci had passed Mir
left-hand circuit. circuit. Mir led briefly, but by took over the lead, but and closed on his teammate
Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati) the end of that lap he’d been Quartararo got back in front Dovizioso, who was troubled
was clearly off the pace, and shuffled back to fourth by the for another four laps. all weekend with “the same
dropped to fifth, embroiled final chicane, with Quartararo On lap 16 Viñales made his problem... our bike is difficult
with second Suzuki rider now in front, and Marquez and move after another big wobble, to turn”. He’d qualified a lowly
Joan Mir while factory Ducati Viñales swapping to and fro in and Marquez promptly 11th but made a flying start.
teamamate Danilo Petrucci his wake. Marquez set fastest followed him past, sticking Now Petrucci dogged his
went ahead. But by the finish lap, a tenth short of the record, within half a second as the gap tracks for a few laps while Mir
he’d regained fourth as Mir ran on lap four. to Quartararo grew rapidly. closed again; then Petrucci
“I HAVE HAD
SOME DARK
TIMES BUT
HERE FROM
FRIDAY I FELT
STRONG” –
VIÑALES
114 amcn.com.au
Main. Once Maverick grabbed the lead, Marquez took over the role of Wingman 1. The works Ducatis
struggled to hold out Morbidelli and Mir 2. It’s worth remembering that Quartararo scheduled his arm pump
surgery so he would be fit-ish for Assen 3. Viñales took his first win since PI, and Fabio his second podium in a
row 4. Okay, his title hopes are a smoking ruin, but Viñales looks like being a threat after the summer break
briefs
Horror Jorge
Jorge Lorenzo’s difficult start
to his fi rst year on the factory
Repsol Honda got a good deal
worse at Assen, after a high-
speed crash in the fi rst practice
session. He walked away, but
only to be put into an ambulance
and eventually to hospital,
where a fracture in his thoracic
T6 vertebra was diagnosed.
Soon afterwards he returned
1 to Spain for treatment, where a
microscopic “trabecular” fracture
was found in T8. Lorenzo escaped
took over on lap 16. It lasted struggling, and only two Ducati) and Hafizh Syahrin
damage to the spinal cord and
only three laps before he had a seconds ahead of Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM) right there, the nervous system, but will have
big moment, letting Dovi past – but the Australian Pramac the quartet past the flag inside to spend “three or four weeks”
again, and Mir ahead of both Ducati rider had his own 0.4sec to wrap the final points. wearing a body brace. As well as
of them for three laps. problems with rear grip Johann Zarco (Red Bull sitting out the Dutch TT he will
Dovi was not to be denied, problem in the right-handers, KTM) had dropped out of this also miss this weekend’s German
though, and regained control and was barely half-a-second fight and retired to the pits GP. “We hope he will be back after
with five laps to go. clear of a closing Andrea after 16 laps with, as the team the summer break at Brno,” said
HRC team boss Alberto Puig.
At the same time, Crutchlow Iannone’s Aprilia over the line. somewhat unusually reported,
had been closing… only to run Iannone had passed Pol “no mechanical issues”.
almost off the track at the first Espargaro’s Red Bull KTM
Crack-up Jack
With the mid-point of
Jack Miller raised a laugh at the
corner, which let Morbidelli on lap 22, leaving him two the season approaching, typically grisly pre-race press
through. The Yamaha rider seconds adrift. Five seconds Marquez goes to the German conference – where riders like to
passed Petrucci on the final away, brother Aleix Espargaro GP next weekend, where he is promise to try their hardest and
lap and was right on Dovi’s (Aprilia) got the better of undefeated, with a 44-point to get the best possible result.
back wheel, the three over the a four-bike tussle, leading lead, 160 points to Dovi’s 116. A Dorna promotion had Dutch
line in just over half a second. Miguel Oliveira (Red Bull Petrucci has 108, then Rins schoolchildren asking the riders
Crutchlow was three KTM) by less than a tenth, 101, Rossi 72, and the rising sundry questions. One of the
more sensible was what rules the
seconds adrift; Mir was with Pecco Bagnaia (Pramac Quartararo 67.
riders would like to change. Miller
was quick to respond. “I’d like to
2 4 cut one of Marc’s legs off.”
Remy’s pole
Remy Gardner’s fi rst pole position
was promptly hailed by his
absent father Wayne. “He was on
the phone when I got back to my
pit, so that was great,” the jubilant
21-year-old said. Remy had been
fastest in free practice, but found
the going tougher in the heat of
3 the afternoon qualifying session.
“This morning was awesome –
half a second ahead. I knew then
I could be on the front row. I was
sort of expecting pole, but I didn’t
want to say I’d get it.” The 1987
world champ has shepherded
Remy to his present position, but
does not attend every race.
amcn.com.au 115
race
report
Main. Remy Gardner’s troubled race ended in the kitty litter at the chicane
1. Augusto Fernandez is starting to look like a threat in Moto2 2. Brad Binder,
L, and Luca Marini bounced back to form to join Fernandez on the podium
Round 8 Assen TT Circuit, Netherlands 28-30 June 2019 Moto2 World Championship
Fernandez wins, KTM comes good as Marquez crashes out of points lead MOTO2
24 LAPS
HIGH DRAMA IN the best Moto2 race behind fast-starter Binder, who was lucky to avoid crashing after
POS RIDER NAT BIKE TIME
in the new Triumph-powered era overtaken several times, but who hitting Vierge’s sliding bike, and 1 A FERNANDEZ SPA KAL 39m24.779s
yielded a first win for Flexbox HP40 always struck back immediately. taking the benefit of the lead in the 2 B BINDER RSA KTM +0.612s
Kalex rider Augusto Fernandez, but At first it was Vierge in pursuit, championship. Tetsuta Nagashima 3 L MARINI ITA KAL +3.686s
bitter gall for Spanish compatriot then Lowes took over briefly. But (ONEXOX Kalex) was a career-best 4 T LUTHI SWI KAL +4.028s
5 T NAGASHIMA JPN KAL +5.391s
Alex Marquez (EG-VDS Kalex), the Briton had dropped back to fifth, closing at the end. 6 A LOCATELLI ITA KAL +13.127s
who was knocked out of what was sixth in the gang when he slid off Andrea Locatelli (Italtrans 7 S MANZI ITA MVA +13.183
looking like a fourth win in a row. on lap 11. At half distance, the first Kalex) passed Stefano Manzi (MV 8 M SCHROTTER GER KAL +13.567s
The chances of first-time pole nine were within 1.5sec. Agusta) over the line by 0.06sec, 9 D AEGERTER SWI MVA +19.792s
10 M BEZZECCHI ITA KTM +21.291s
qualifier Remy Gardner (ONEXOX Marquez looked set for victory with Marcel Schrotter (Dynavolt 11 DiGIANNANTONIO ITA SPE +23.591s
Kalex) were spoiled with gear- after playing his tactics right. He Kalex) half-a-second adrift… he 12 JAKE DIXON GBR KTM +26.585s
shifting problems that put him out gained a place when KTM’s Jorge had been ahead of them before 13 L TULOVIC GER KTM +30.817s
of the leading group and off the Martin crashed out, and by lap 17 serving a long-lap penalty. 14 J ROBERTS USA KTM +34.122s
15 I LECUONA SPA KTM +34.406s
track in the early stages, then into he was leaning on Binder, moving Dominique Aegerter (MV Agusta) 16 S ODENDAAL RSA NTS +40.034s
a last-corner crash as he tried to past on lap 19. This put him clear then Marco Bezzecchi (Red Bull 17 J FOLGER GER KAL +51.405s
make up time. of an incident that eliminated his KTM) completed the top 10; Di 18 X CARDELUS AND KTM +59.200s
By the finish, more crashes had teammate Vierge, who fell after Giannantonio recovered to 11th. It DNF A MARQUEZ (SPA, KAL), L BALDASSARRI (ITA, KAL),
X VIERGE (SPA, KAL), E BASTIANINI (ITA, KAL), J MARTIN
depleted the once super-close front contact in the slowest corner with was the first top-10 for MV Agustas
(SPA, KTM), S LOWES (GBR, KAL), J NAVARRO (SPA, SPE),
group, and gave a season-best Fernandez, and which also brought since the glory days of Agostini and R GARDNER (AUS, KAL), N BULEGA (ITA, KAL), S CORSI
second for long-time leader Brad down Bastianini. Phil Read almost 50 years ago, with (ITA, KAL), B BENDSNEYDER (NED, NTS).
Binder, whose Red Bull KTM has But his nemesis was coming, as two of them there. POLE POSITION
until this race been struggling; and Baldassarri got ahead of Fernandez With Corsi, Bendsneyder and R GARDNER 1m36.572s
FASTEST LAP (NEW RECORD)
a most unexpected third for Luca and then also Binder, who dropped title hopeful Jorge Navarro (Speed
A FERNANDEZ 1m37.323s (2015 T RABAT 1m37.449s)
Marini (SKY VR46 Kalex). to fourth, and started pushing at Up) also crashing out, and Nicolo
STANDINGS AFTER 8 OF 19 ROUNDS
Binder had qualified second, Marquez. He attacked into the Bulega retiring with gear-shifting 1 LUTHI 117, 2 MARQUEZ 111, 3 FERNANDEZ 92,
with Xavi Vierge (EG-VDS Kalex) slow turn five, running inside and problems, there were only 18 4 NAVARRO 89, 5 BALDASSARRI 88, 6 MARINI 84,
alongside, and Marquez heading directly losing the front, skittling finishers, and first points for Jake 7 SCHROTTER 81, 8 BINDER 64, 9 BASTIANINI 56,
10 GARDNER 41, 11 VIERGE 39, 12 LOWES 33, 13
row two from Sam Lowes Marquez, who was visibly irate. Dixon (Sama KTM) and Lukas
NAGASHIMA 30, 14 LECUONA 26, 15 LOCATELLI 20.
(Federal Oils Kalex) and Fabio Di This handed a first win to Tulovic (Kiefer KTM) in 12th and
Giannantonio’s Speed Up. Fernandez and put Binder back on a 13th, with American Joe Roberts
Di Giannantonio would run wide well-deserved podium, after heroic and teammate Iker Lecuona
early on, but the rest would play a resistance almost all race long. (American Racing KTM) taking the
lively role in the lead pack, piling up Luthi was still close in fourth, last of them.
116 amcn.com.au
race
report
Main. Kaito Toba, Tatsuki Suzuki, Raul Fernandez and Celestino Vietti all
crashed out together 1. Tony Arbolino gave Honda a 60th anniversary
Moto3 win 2. Dalla Porta, L, and Kornfeil joined him on the podium
Round 8 Assen TT Circuit, Netherlands 28-30 June 2019 Moto3 World Championship
TONY ARBOLINO BECAME the first Then it was Toba again, but all the way to the last fast corners POS RIDER NAT BIKE TIME
repeat winner in 13 Moto3 races, then came the retirements. Jaume leading to the chicane, when the 1 T ARBOLINO ITA HON 38m03.113s
2 L DALLA PORTA ITA HON +0.045s
with a forceful final-lap overtake on Masia, up from 17th to the front youngster pushed past to lead over
3 J KORNFEIL CZE KTM +1.562s
frequent leader Lorenzo Dalla Porta group, coasted to a disconsolate the line by a minuscule 0.045sec. 4 G RODRIGO SPA HON +2.168s
in a blazing hot first race of the day. stop while Albert Arenas, up from Kornfeil managed to hold off a 5 J McPHEE GBR HON +2.201s
Both Honda riders benefited 18th, crashed out. brawling pack, with third to 14th 6 A OGURA JPN HON +2.265s
7 M RAMIREZ SPA HON +2.436s
from a controversial penalty to Next time round, a major over the line in just over 2sec.
8 N ANTONELLI ITA HON +2.580s
Jakub Kornfeil (KTM), who had led upset, as Toba, Tatsuki Suzuki, Gabriel Rodrigo squeezed into 9 D FOGGIA ITA KTM +2.758s
from the 18th to the 20th lap of the Raul Fernandez and Celestino fourth, ahead of John McPhee, Ai 10 A LOPEZ SPA HON +2.900s
22-lap race… but he had been given Vietti crashed out together in a Ogura, Marcos Ramirez, Antonelli, 11 R FENATI ITA HON +2.916s
12 A CANET SPA KTM +3.081s
a “long-lap” penalty for having slow-corner heap at the Strubben Dennis Foggia and Alonso Lopez.
13 K MASAKI JPN KTM +3.267s
cut the chicane. He had gained hairpin. Shortly afterwards, Binder Fenati was right behind, better 14 F SALAC CZE KTM +3.737s
no advantage by that move, and also crashed out, all alone. than a tenth ahead of Aron Canet, 15 S GARCIA SPA HON +12.705s
didn’t lose too much either after By now Dalla Porta had been in Kazuki Masaki and Filip Salac. 16 C ONCU TUR KTM +12.796s
17 A SASAKI JPN HON +12.800s
stretching his lead over three all- front from laps 13 to 17 but Kornfeil Another nine seconds away,
18 M YURCHENKO KAZ KTM +12.894s
out laps, then rejoining in third. had been looking increasingly Sergio Garcia took the last point 19 A MIGNO ITA KTM +33.346s
Pole starter Niccolo Antonelli strong, and took over next time ahead of Can Oncu, Ayumu Sasaki 20 S NEPA ITA KTM +36.069s
(Honda) led away, then Qatar round. Knowing of his penalty, he and Makar Yurchenko. 21 R ROSSI ITA HON +39.997s
22 R VAN DE LAGEMAA NED KTM +1m32.359s
winner Kaito Toba (Honda) took forged away impressively, then Canet’s 12th was enough to
23 T BOOTH-AMOS GBR KTM +1m48.509s
over for a four-lap spell, before took the long-lap detour on lap 21, retain a shrinking points lead on DNF D BINDER (RSA, KTM), C VIETTI (ITA, KTM), R
Romano Fenati (Honda) – through still able to rejoin in third. 107, from the threatening Dalla FERNANDEZ (ARG, KTM), K TOBA (JPN, HON), T SUZUKI
from 13th on the grid – took over for Up front, Dalla Porta was ahead Porta on 100; then Antonelli 83, (JPN, HON), A ARENAS (SPA, KTM), J MASIA (SPA, KTM).
three laps of his own. again, and he held off Arbolino Arbolino 76 and Vietti 68. POLE POSITION (NEW RECORD)
N ANTONELLI 1m41.232s (2018 J MARTIN 1m42.039s)
FASTEST LAP
D FOGGIA 1m42.627s
1 2
STANDINGS AFTER 8 OF 19 ROUNDS
1 CANET 107, 2 DALLA PORTA 100, 3 ANTONELLI 83,
4 ARBOLINO 76, 5 VIETTI 68, 6 MASIA 65, 7 RAMIREZ
49, 8 McPHEE 58, 9 TOBA 51, 10 RODRIGO 50, 11
KORNFEIL 50, 12 FOGGIA 43, 13 MIGNO 40, 14 OGURA
37, 15 BINDER 33.
amcn.com.au 117
race report
YOUR FORTNIGHTLY FIX
Motto
Mo
Moto
to Gardner was on top after
practice and qualifying, left,
but crashed out of the race
after gearbox dramas
Moto
Moto P
118 amcn.com.au
Motto
Mo toGP
toGGP
Now Marc’s
title to lose
MOTOGP MASTERMIND MARC Marquez extended his lea ad overr
Marquez has taken complete the Italian to 54 points.
control of the 2019 world In the last 13 races he has
h
championship. fi nished, Marquez has be een
Marquez’s speed and either fi rst or second. Onlyy rare
consistency on the Honda DNFs blot his scoresheet,, as in
RC213V is now matched by the Texas this year and Phillip Island
deployment of a race strategy and Valencia late last sea ason.
that is solely focussed on “This is the main targett. I
winning a sixth premier class have been working very, very
title. Putting aside his once hard with Honda to try to have
trademark win-it-or-bin-it style, that consistency at all the e race
Marquez has destabilised his tracks,“ Marquez said.
rivals with a willingness to settle “For me it has no mean ing to
for second place in order to win have a weak track. Before e wee Th st
The strategy
t rategy increasingly
t egy is in
incre
creasi
asingl
ngly
y ma s siv
massivesive
e 10se
110sec
0sec
cbbehind
ehind Marquez
hi nd Mar
Marque
quezz
the championship. had a feeling of being very strong demoralising for Dovizioso, who in second.
Marquez executed his plan in some tracks and with weak has not won a race since the “When you have Marc in this
perfectly in the Dutch TT points at others. opening GP in Qatar. situation, it is bad because he is
knowing that second place “So now we have found a good Worse still, while Dovizioso always there,” Dovizioso said.
to Yamaha rival Maverick balance. I wasn’t ready to fi ght for has, like Marquez, just the “In some race we can’t fi ght
Viñales would have no impact the win in Assen so second is like single DNF, he has been fourth for the podium so we lose more
on his title aspirations. With a victory for the championship.” three times. That’s a nightmare points. It’s not terrible to be fourth
his main championship rival This season Marquez has won for him and Ducati, which was if you fi ght with the fi rst three.
Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati) in four out of eight races, with three exposed at Assen when the best The point is the gap; the gap is
an uninspiring fourth place, seconds and one DNF (Texas). GP19 finished in fourth place, a the reality.” CY
Motto
Mo toGP
toGGP Miller is looking for
Miller mad
answers after tyre
problems at Assen
at Michelin
JACK MILLER WAS a bored four laps I had warning
and decidedly unhappy lights coming on saying I was
spectator at the Dutch TT. going to f*** the right hand
From his seat aboard the side of the tyre,” Miller said.
Pramac Ducati GP19, Miller’s “It wasn’t much fun. And
frustration was triggered with the wind I was being
by early signs of rear tyre pushed off line, especially at
problems. He was mystified turn 15 and trying to hold up soft at all, no way. behind Danilo is not good
by his tyre issues, saying he the bike in the marbles and “The tyre life is there and enough and I’m not happy
had no option but to race the not lose the front. in theory you can make the with that but I didn’t feel
hard compound rear on his “Normally we are the best race distance (on the soft), comfortable,” Miller said.
Ducati, which is normally on the soft tyres, we can but your race pace is going to “I needed points today so
suited to softer compounds. make them last the longest be all over the place. So we I did that, and I never lost a
Miller was in sullen mood but some way or another we have to go with the stable and position in the race.”
as he lamented his surprise can’t use them any more. sturdy hard option.” As previously indicated
with the issues, and buffeting “I’m not happy at all. I’ve Not helping Miller’s mood Ducati is formalising an
from strong winds, which saw made my thoughts clear to was that he finished three unchanged line-up next
him finish a lonely ninth and the guys in blue (Michelin) places behind factory Ducati year, with Miller set to stay
26sec behind race winner and other people just to see rider Danilo Petrucci on a at Pramac Ducati alongside
Maverick Viñales (Yamaha). what the f*** is actually going similar GP19 also fitted with Italian youngster Pecco
“It was shit, the most boring on here because that’s two the hard rear. Bagnaia. Both will be aboard
race of my life. After three or races in a row we can’t use the “Finishing eight seconds factory GP20s. CY
amcn.com.au 119
sport
BSB
BS
SB
David Yoemans Photography
120 amcn.com.au
ASBK Moto 3
It will be Game On
TBG Sport
at Morgan Park’s
ASBK round
Jorge’s mods
MotoGP
MOTOGP'S REPSOL Honda ergonomics, among other things winglets, while he also had one
rider Jorge Lorenzo had a raft – and the Assen bike had a bike with the carbon-wrapped
of modifi cations made to his revised version of the ‘wings’ on frame tested but not used by
bike ahead of the Dutch TT in the dummy tank cover, for him Marquez earlier this year.
Assen, as HRC strives to make to hook his knees under during It appears we’ll have to wait
the bike built for teammate Marc braking and cornering. until Brno before we see if there’s
Marquez’s aggressive style suit Lorenzo’s (but not Marquez’s) any benefi t, after the Spaniard
the much smoother, older rider. bike also had new aero crashed heavily during the
As at Ducati for the past bodywork, with a larger and fi rst practice session, suff ering
two years, the fi ve-time world slightly more complicated two repairable fractures in his
champ had requested diff erent version of the bow-tie top vertebrae. MICHAEL SCOTT
amcn.com.au 121
sport
Main pic. Rennie Scaysbrook took Aprilia to the top of the world 1. Carlin Dunne, 2018 winner, was killed
in a crash near the top of the course 2. Lucy Glockner was a fan favourite on her BMW 3. Chris Fillmore
enjoyed owning all three class records for a few minutes until Scaysbrook reset the Open mark
R d
AUSTRALIA'S RENNIE Dunlop’s teammate, division with a 10m20.819s The weather took a turn
Scaysbrook celebrated a this year’s only female time, earning the former AMA once the motorcycle category
much-deserved victory two-wheel competitor and Superbike racer the bragging was finished, with many
at this year’s Pikes Peak 2018’s quickest rookie Lucy rights of becoming the only four-wheeled competitors
International Hill Climb in Glöckner began her race to rider in the event’s 104-year opting to use rain tyres for
Colorado on Sunday 30 June, the clouds just after 10am history to hold three records their 19.99km run up the
hours before it was confirmed and was the first rider to all at once. Mountain. Former FMX great
that four-time Pikes Peak crack the 10-minute barrier. As well as breaking this Travis Pastrana was one such
winner Carlin Dunne had The German talent rode her year’s Lightweight record, he driver, racing his Porsche
succumbed to injuries Tyco BMW S 1000 RR to an rode a KTM Duke 790 to a new Cayman GT4 Clubsport
sustained in a race-day crash. impressive 9m58.878s to middleweight record last year, to the summit in a time
High profile entrant finish first in her Exhibition 12 months after setting the of 11m24.287s, before the
and Pikes Peak first timer Powersport Category and Heavyweight record on board finish line at the summit was
Michael Dunlop was forced second overall to Scaysbrook a KTM 1290 SuperDuke. officially closed.
to withdraw from this year’s in the two-wheel entries. But Fillmore’s glory was Rain and lightning on the
event after a high-speed crash Chris Fillmore, who was short-lived as Scaysbrook summit meant the finish line
during a rally event in his Scaysbrook’s KTM teammate went on to rewrite the was bought down to Glen
native Ireland, from which the in both 2017 and 2018, rode Heavyweight record less Helen for the remainder of the
19-time Isle of Man TT winner his KTM 450SX-F to a new than 10 minutes later on his four-wheeled events.
suffered “serious injuries”. record in the Lightweight factory-backed Aprilia. KELLIE BUCKLEY
2 3
Next
issue!
Don’t miss Rennie’s
feature next issue
revealing just what
it took to fi nally
conquer America’s
Mountain
122 amcn.com.au
MotoE
Gentlemen,
Along with the other
racers, Josh Hook
tested his MotoE bike
last month
Ctl+Alt Start
THE HILLS AROUND the be 12 teams fi elding 18 riders,
Sachsenring Circuit will be all aboard bikes supplied by
strangely quiet for a time this Energica Ego Corsa.
weekend, during the sessions As in the other classes, MotoE
for the opening round of the FIM competitors will participate in free
MotoE Cup. practice and qualifying though,
The much anticipated series because of the fewer number
will whirr into life after the of competitors, the grid will be
regulations for the inaugural determined by a single qualifying
electric-bike series were session on Saturday afternoon.
published last week. There will Friday will see two 30-minute
practice sessions while qualifying Aussie Josh Hook will race
– or ‘E-pole’ – will be the only for Alma Pramac team in the
session on Saturday, slated to series alongside Alex de Angelis.
take place directly after Moto2 Among the competition will be
qualifying. On Sunday, MotoE will MotoGP veterans Sete Gibernau,
be the opening race of the day, Bradley Smith, Mike de Meglio
the 10-lapper to be held at 10am and Randy de Puniet.
German time (6pm AEST). Following its delayed start,
With 120kW to drag their caused by a fi re wiping out all the
250kg-plus weight around, the bikes and equipment in Spain in
bikes are expected to lap the March, the series will continue
circuits with times between next month in Austria, following
those of Moto2 and Moto3 by two double-headers, at Round
bikes, on Michelin control tyres. 3 at Misano in September and
Top speeds are anticipated at Round 4 at Valencia in November.
250km/h at the German track. PHIL BRANAGAN
SGP
amcn.com.au 123
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3 4 5
Nicole Thompson
Brooke Lonie
2nd Evolution
Women’s All Power
Class
What do Ash Barty, Brooke Lonie and Layla Norton “It was an exceptional event.
The Harley Club of Victoria,
have in common? We’re glad you asked their event committee
and all the volunteers put
REPORT HAMISH COOPER PHOTOGRAPHY IAN DUNCAN together a fantastic two
days. We had a strong field
LAST ISSUE (AMCN Vol the success of this policy win and world No 1 ranking, entered in the Evolution
68 No 25) we reported how relies on clubs becoming the first for an Aussie woman Women’s All Powers Class,
the Harley Club of Victoria involved because they are since Evonne Goolagong in with riders coming from
had organised a new class of the grassroots and lifeblood the 1970s. NSW. Things are starting
of our sport. Along the way she has to gel for me on the mighty
racing for women at the 2019
Success in your local club, relied on a strong support Yamaha DT!”
Australian Classic Dirt Track
Championship. then state championship network to overcome injury
Layla Norton
The Evolution Women’s leads to potential success in and a change of focus to play
1st Victorian MX
All Power Class was run at a national championship, cricket when she felt burnt Female Clubmans
Broadford, with Tayla Street and with the right support out by tennis in 2014. Senior Class
becoming the inaugural competitors can head There have been many “For my first year in Seniors,
winner on her Yamaha. overseas and attempt to quotes published from the 2019 season went
A few weeks later become a world champion. Barty after her recent wins. awesome. After sitting out
You only have to look at Ash Let’s hear some from a 2018, coming into the first
Broadford hosted the final of
Barty to see the career path. participant at the 2019 round I didn’t know what to
the 2019 Victorian Senior MX
expect. After taking the win
Championship. This time Her sporting journey began Australian Classic Dirt Track
in the first race I definitely
the winning women were on playing at her local club in Championship and one
gained a lot of confidence and
modern dirt bikes. Ipswich as a four-year-old. from the Victorian Senior from then on I continued to
Motorcycling Victoria is Her Wimbledon win as a MX Championship to put take three race wins at each
actively encouraging more junior in 2011 set her on the this into perspective for round. I’m excited for the 2020
women into the sport, and road to her recent Grand Slam motorcycle racers. season in the Expert Class.”
1. The start of the women’s race was just as frantic as in any other class 2. Maddy Brown takes some serious air 3. Ebony
Harris leads Brown 4. Jessica Koolen got in a full day’s [muddy] racing 5. Tanesha Harnett scored four podium finishes amcn.com.au 125
sport
Grid talk INTERVIEW PETER WHITAKER
Col Metcher Archives
Colin Metcher
He’s 81 years old and he’s hoping to claim another Aussie motocross title next month!
THERE WAS A long period racing for dirtshifting after events over there,” says Col, Col’s introduction to the Pan
in Col Metcher’s life where successfully defending a hat- before somewhat modestly Pacifics was back in 2004 when
his love of designing and trick of Australian Sports Skiff adding, “but every meeting he won MX events on both his
racing catamarans to two Championships in 2005, the in the USA is claimed to Honda Elsinore 125 and Maico
World Championships took same year he won four gold be a World Championship 250 at Reedy Creek. Since
precedence over his career on medals at the Trans Tasman something or other.” then, both Col and GCMX Club
two wheels. Masters Games – two for dirt Nonetheless Col has a President Alan Bresson have
“I get a real kick out of track and two for motocross. substantial array of silverware borne the major responsibility
fast bikes and fast boats,” It’s not surprising for a bloke on display in his Gold Coast for keeping MX included in the
says Col. “But people find who had already scored a home, part of which has Pan Pacifics.
it difficult to conceive that podium in the over-50s World become a de facto office for the “With Gold Coast City
high-performance sailing is Vintage Championships held Gold Coast Motocross Club as a expanding at such a rapid pace,
significantly more demanding in the UK, and a victory at the consequence of his involvement it’s becoming almost impossible
than motocross.” over-60s World Vintage MX at with VMX and, significantly, the to find a venue,” says Col, who’s
That’s possibly why Col Glen Helen in California. Pan Pacific Masters Games held reluctant to divulge where the
has largely forsaken ocean “I certainly won a couple of bi-annually in his home town. 2020 MX events might be held.
126 amcn.com.au
Main. The beard may be a bit snowy but the fire is still burning when Col Metcher is on the track, particularly on his Maico 250 1-2. In Glen Helen in
California on his Husqvarna 430 3. Lunkoping Sweden on a CZ380 4. Winning the 2018 Dirt Track Championship on the 360 Honda powered Maico
1 2 3
amcn.com.au 127
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Where are they now? Ben Spies – The single-season 2009 WorldSBK championship phenomenon
WorldSBK champion
and MotoGP race
winner, could Ben
Spies come back
to racing?
Australian Motorcycle News road test photographs are posed for by skilled, professional riders under controlled circumstances. Attempting to imitate their actions may be dangerous.
Australian Motorcycle News supports and endorses rider training and wearing protective riding gear. We must ask Fred what he thinks of racing electric motorbikes. The FIM MotoE series
kicks off in Germany this weekend, and it will be entertaining to see the bikes in action. The noise; not so much. Surely it won’t be long before promoters come up with some kind of artificial
soundtrack to play over the bikes? Or better still, music? No not yer highbrow classics; we suggest ‘Kickstart my Heart’ by Mötley Crüe is not a bad place to start.
FREE PANNIERS*
WHEN YOU BUY A TIGER
U
UE
ON TIGER 1200 MODELS
FREE PANNIERS*
UP TO $1,900 VALUE
ON TIGER 800 MODELS
FREE PANNIERS*
UP TO $1,700 VALUE
ON TIGER SPORT
*Terms and conditions apply. Offer ends 31/7/2019 or while stocks last. Saving based on RRP. Offer only applies at participating Triumph Motorcycle dealers. Offer valid on MY17 Tiger Sport, MY18 Tiger Sport, MY18 Tiger 800,
MY19 Tiger 800, MY18 Tiger 1200 & MY19 Tiger 1200 including all model variants. Offer only valid on Aluminium Expedition Panniers for Tiger 1200 and Tiger 800 models, and 2 Box Pannier Kit and Lids for Tiger Sport.
Panniers listed above cannot be exchanged or returned for any other pannier colour or pannier type and cannot be exchanged or returned for any other part, accessory, clothing or credit.
Consult your participating Triumph Motorcycle dealer for further details. Triumph Motorcycles Australia reserves the right to change or extend the offer.