TrialsTrials NewsNews Western Districts Trials Club

January 2012

t Aussie youth champion Lachlan Gibson t The Story t Aerial trials bike is a gem t Trials rider is up and coming karting star www.wdtc.org.au Editors corner In this issue we look back to 2011 and, hopefully without neck strain, look forward to 2012. Our club calendar in 2011 went out the window as properties were inaccessible due to rain. However this was a very minor inconvenience compared to the impact of flooding on so many Queenslanders. Trials legend Jeff Gough was among those lost to flooding. Graham Weiss pointed out Jeff to me at Conondale in 2010 and he cut quite a figure with his smooth riding on his immaculate Montesa and of course he had his trademark cigarette resting on his lip. Unfortunately Jeff ’s comeback was cut short crossing a creek and the trials community marked his Terry Davey gives his late model Bultaco a work out. See The History of passing with a memorial event. by Graham Weiss in this article for the details on the develop- In this issue we have the calendar ment of these iconic Spanish machines. for 2012 with the new arrangement where we can ride in trials at other WDTC Committee members 2012 club’s club days. The trials sub- committee is doing some good President Graham Weiss work in promoting the sport. Vice President Mark Casey As my first three trials bikes were Secretary Tracey Gollagher Bultacos I was interested to read Treasurer Mark Keenan Graham Weiss’s history of these Race Secretary Kathy Wager Spanish machines. I had a love Assistant Race Scrutator Terry Davey hate relationship with them, as MQ/MA delegate Andrew Carpenter Social Organiser Mark Power sometimes they would decide to Newsletter Editor Rob Wager click into reverse which caused a www.wdtc.org.au couple of interesting spills. There is Disclaimer: The views expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those of no doubting the fact that Bultacos the Western District Trials Club Committee, Members or Editor. revolutionised trials and heralded the European invasion and the demise of British machines in the sport. Front cover: Lachlan Elsewhere we take a visit to the Gibson on his way to Australian museum and winning the youth division get the run down on a new trials at the Australian Trials property for the club. Look out for Championships in South an article on superkarts from Chryss in October 2011 Jamieson. Photo: Greg-GMC Design Thanks to all who contributed to the newsletter. Former WDTC president Rob Wager takes over the editor’s duties after this issue so remember to send Blast from the past. Thanks to him some yarns and pictures. Terry Davey for this memorable piece of 1970s motorcycle Mark Casey advertising. A word from the president Newly anointed WDTC president Graham Weiss was the second signed up member of the club some 30 years ago so he has plenty of background to lead the club in 2012…. and he is still a difficult bugger to beat on his blue Bultaco. It was good to see that the ~o0o~ Sign up day Twinshock and Classic Masters As you might or might not know, I It also looks like we might be having was a well-attended trial and I think have become the Western Districts an early start to the year which is everyone enjoyed themselves and Trials Club president whether this good after the misfortunes of last of course hearty congratulations to is a good thing or not remains to be year with that little spot of rain we Greg Harding on his win on that fine seen but I will do my best to do a had. The first club and sign on day Spanish masterpiece that he was good job. will be on the 5th of February at riding. See they really are good! And Chris Williams place at Deongwar. Some of you might only know me as well done to all the other winners of that crazy idiot on that there Bultacy all their respective classes. There will be some working bee’s to thingy which somehow gets into the get everything to happen over the You might have noticed that I was results regularly. year so we could use all the help not at Conondale as unfortunately we can get. Watch the club website One thing the club really needs is I had to work in Emerald on Friday for all the information on everything more officials as in stewards, clerk night and them Rockhampton even how to bake scones. That is of courses and scrutineers so we on Saturday night, then sit in the about all I have to say at the moment need people to get off their you know truck all of Saturday night and half seeing as this has taken me three what’s and do something about the of Sunday to get home at 3:00pm weeks of eight hours a day to type situation. Sunday. Work reigns supreme when so I hope to see you all at the sign you need money I suppose. All the information is on the MQ web on day and I wish everyone a very site which you can get to off the club Off on a different tangent I can see Happy New Year and don’t forget to website which is www.wdtc.org.au. doing this job I will have to improve keep your feet up. Go on you know you want to! I will be my blindingly fast typing speed of Regards doing the officials course, so if I can, one word an hour. I am using two anyone can. fingers so I will see how it goes. Graham Weiss

Outgoing presidents report By Rob Wager G’day everyone. For those of you that with no President. But we elected a with the best attendance ever (I told weren’t at the AGM at Conondale you’ll dedicated bunch to the committee, you they were a good mob) and we know by the above heading that I am including a couple of assistants to accepted Grahams nomination. now the immediate past president. I help. With such a strong committee Hooray! didn’t accept a nomination to carry for 2012 I wavered and almost Thanks Graham, I appreciate your on the Presidents role for 2012 and changed my mind (and if I was commitment, and we will all help. it wasn’t an easy decision. I was only President then maybe I could defer Can I offer advice – not really – just just getting a real understanding of making a career move a while take it as it comes and do your best the job and a familiarity with the MQ longer). at the time. procedures and politics. I had a few In the midst of my deliberation To the rest of the 2011 committee reasons for bailing out, foremost (procrastinating?) I got an email thank you for you support, work, being that I think I need to spend a from Graham Weiss volunteering tolerance, ability, common sense, bit of time studying, making business for the job. Ron Chadwick put him and just doing the job well. It is plans, or working out another career. up to it. Good work Ron. Graham pleasing to see so many carrying on. I also feared that with Kathy and I would be one of our longest serving To all members I wish the best of on the committee we were perhaps club members (I believe he was luck for the coming season and hope a little too influential. And frankly the second member to sign up for to see you soon. Presidents are a lot easier to find the club 30 odd years ago) so you than Race Secretaries. can be sure Graham will have our My error was not to have a successor best interests at heart. We had a Rob in place. We finished the 2011 AGM committee meeting in November Bike museum has the goods By Mark Casey The Australian Motorcycle Museum at Haigslea has 220 on display and is a mecca for anybody interested in the two wheelers. With bikes featured from the 1880s through to 2009 there is plenty to see at the facility between Toowoomba and Brisbane. For the trials aficionados the Mick Andrews replica and The Scottish model would be of particular interest. Entry is $15 for adults and $10 for children. www.australianmotorcyclemuseum.com.au. Well worth a visit. The Montesa 250cc King Scorpion looks ready to take on the nearest trail. Note the horn on the airbox, speedometer, carrier and reflective decals for road use.

The Ossa Mick Andrew replica MAR features a signature on the name board from the Derbyshire legend himself.

The 1970 Roken Trail Breaker is not a trials bike but it would be interesting to pilot it up the hill climb at Conondale. The bike which was used on the Alaskan oil fields has two wheel drive, is waterpoof and floats.

The BMW R27 was the last single cylinder bike made by the Bavarian Motorworks and featured a rubber mounted engine producing 18 horsepower. The shaft drive bike had a special Earles suspension system to prevent the bike diving when the front brake was applied. The front of the pillion has a ring which is a mystery to me and unfortunately there no prizes for the most creative explanation. More than 15,000 of these rugged machines were The 1948 350cc single Victoria is another quality built between 1960 and 1967. exhibit at the Australian Motorcycle Museum. The history of Bultacos The story of the motorcyle that revolutionised observed trials By Graham Weiss to the media on March 14 These and other modifications It all started when Francisco 1959. They had a lot of success were tried and they entered the Xavier Bulto’ was working at in production races with this Scottish six day trial in 1963. Montesa and the owner of that first bike and it was continually Orial’s bike stopped due to company was told that Mr Bulto improved. The racing ones were electrical problems and he timed was taking all of the credit for the called Tralla Super Sport or TSS out and after that first day a success of Montesa as well as the and in 1965 Bultaco introduced Mister came up fact that Pedro Permanyer, the a water cooled 6 speed TSS 125 and said can I have a ride on that. owner, wanted to stop supporting which was way ahead of its time He liked the lightness of the bike the racing team as well. and very successful. as well as the swiftness, agility FX Bulto who helped start Montesa and manoeuvrability of the two in 1945 thought that racing was The Sherpa T trials revolution stroke compared to his Ariel. So very important to the future of At the end of 1962 Juan Soler in November 1964 Sammy Miller the company. The end result was Bulto and Orial Puig Bulto entered signed up with Bultaco to develop that Bulto was sacked. A couple the Saint Cucufo Trial on modified the Sherpa T. Sammy flew to of days later he got a phone call early Matadors which were the and after 12 days with a from some of the people working bikes they had been riding in the 196cc Sherpa S (scramble) had under him at Montesa asking if he ISDT. They took three bikes to the a workable trials bike ready to go. wanted to start a new motorcycle trial on a trailer towed behind Don He then took both his Ariel and the company. He thought about it for a Paco’s car, two for the riders and new Sherpa back to England and while and with more support from a spare. ( Don Paco was Francisco on the next weekend he won the other employees from Montesa he Xavier Bulto’s nickname and British experts trial on the Ariel as decided to do it. So in May 1958 where the name Bultaco came he was still contacted to them for with 12 engineers from Montessa, from) At this trial a Claude Coutard that day and on the Sunday at the Bultaco was born. suggested many modifications to King’s Norton club trial he took They designed a new engine and the bike. I am sure most of the the Sherpa to its first victory. This after four months had a prototype older readers will recognise the was in the last weeks of 1964. of the first Tralla 101 up and name as his son Charles became On May 8 1965 he achieved running. This bike was presented a top rider. worldwide fame as the rider of the first two stroke to win the SSDT. This was Sammy Millers sixth SSDT win. The Sherpa T model 10 with a 244cc four speed motor had been released for sale worldwide in early 1965. This first model got a reputation as being fragile not because of Bultaco but because of the Spanish import laws of the time. The law prohibited the importation of any metals or really anything into Spain. This meant the quality of the steel and alloys on the bikes was a very poor standard. The worst of this was the top triple clamp which had a nasty tendency to snap. The frames used to bend Greg Harding had a win at Western Districts Trials Club Twinshock Masters trial easily as well. This actually led with only two points lost on 6 November 2011 with his ‘communal’ M49 Bultaco. to a good business venture for Picture: Lahey Sammy who made replacement 1971. Then the first big change in facing chain tensioner as well. It triple clamps for the Sherpa T. the Sherpa range happened with was during this model run that the This model went until 1967 with the starts of the Slimline range frame material was changed to improvements along the way as which the first was the M80. chrome-moly and the front brake being a small company it was easy This bike went from April 1971 to lever on the backing plate was to change things in the middle of April 1972. In 1969 Bultaco also moved to face forwards as well. a production run. brought out the Kit Campeon which The change in frame happened to was an upgrade kit for the earlier save weight as well as give added The first of the five speed models. It consisted of a slimline strength. Sherpas fuel tank and seat, exhaust and The next model in the line- up was This model had a lot of wins all airbox. The M80 had 2932 bikes the M124/125. These ran from around the world from beginners in its run. Then on the next model only February 1974 to July 1974 to experts. The total production was the biggest change of all of with 740 of the 250’s and 2,108 of M10’s was 1,273 bikes. The the Sherpa’s when the M91 and of the 350’s made during the next model Sherpa T was the 92’s came out. These went from period. Once again they only had M27 which was the starts of the 1972 to 1973 with 1,796 of the minor changes to the previous five speed gearbox and the San 250cc machines and 4,578 of the model, for example the sidestand Antonio 2 engine. This one just 350cc version’s made. The 350 is was moved onto the Swingarm had minor upgrades apart from actually 325cc and they all have and the speedo drive was moved the engine. The steel quality also a stroke of 60 mm with the 350 to the back wheel. was improving a lot by now as machiness have a 83.2mm bore. The next model was the M150 and the Spanish learnt how to make The 250’s have a bore of 72 mm the 151 which had the Bultaco better steel. The total run for this to give a capacity of 244cc up until standard clubfoot silencer on the model was 700. The next model 1976 when because of a French rear. This was also the first time was the M49 which took Greg law they became in some parts that Bultaco had used rubber Harding to a win at the Twin Shock of the world a 238cc machine. blocks between the barrel fins to and Classic Masters at Conondale These had a bore of 71mm. quieten the noise. My Sherpa T in November. The 350’s usually only make has a 151 engine in it for all of The M49 had a new frame half about one more horsepower than those who are interested. One way through the model run as the 250’s but a lot more torque more strange thing was that the well as many minor improvements and lower range power. Bultaco 92/125 and the 151 all used along the way. This model had sold a lot of the 350’s and this the same barrel and piston with 4,706 bikes in its run from 1968 model was the first with a rear no changes between the models. They obviously thought why change a good thing.

Time for separate tanks and side covers Now in the Sherpa T line we get to the ones that I have owned - the 158 and the 159’s. This model was the first Sherpa’s to have a separate tank and sidecovers and was also the only Sherpa to have a different frame on the 250. The 250 frame was shorter than the 350 and it had a different front down tube. This was also when because of the French changing their registration laws the 250 became a 238 instead of a 244cc. Over here we got some 238’s and some 244 so there A brace of Bultacos in the scrutineering area before the Twin Shock was some confusion buying rings Masters at Conondale on 4th November 2011. Picture: Terry Davey. for this model as the smaller one had a bore of 71mm compared to Sherpa line up was the 190/191 to have a few financial problems 72mm. The 250 frame also had which went from September 1976 and things started to go wrong. a tendency to bend around the to February 1977 - another very The next model in the Sherpa T line steering head and make the frame short model run. was probably the most famous of look like a chopper which made for The biggest change in this model them all the 198 A and the 199 very interesting handling. I used to was the crankshaft but I can’t A or the blue Sherpa’s as they own a 158 in the late 70’s early find what the change was. So in were known. You would probably 80’s and I ended up chopping the these three models there was have all seen one on the photo for front of the frame off and welding very little change. The next model the Jeff Gough Memorial trial put new frame tubes on with the was the first of the new style ones on this year by S.Q.T.A. The bike steering head geometry from the with black engines and fork legs that Jeff is doing the beautiful 199A (Blue Sherpa) and it worked instead of polished alloy and they floating turn on is a 199A. This rather well. started with fibreglass tanks on was the pinnacle of the Sherpa It felt a lot smaller than a normal the first of them and then changed as the company was hitting major Sherpa and handled well even if it to poly-ethylene fuel tanks. These trouble with worker strikes and the was bent in the middle as I did not ones were the 198’s and the government regulations tying the make a frame jig to hold the frame 199’s. company up. This Sherpa was the as I was making it and just lined They were also the first of the one to have no frame tubes under it all up by eye, slack I know but I Sherpa T’s to come with Goneli the engine and a new ignition case was only 19 or 20 years old and plastic mudguards in red to which was much more compact. thought I could do anything. The match the tanks. These are what The Swingarm was reinforced as 158 are still the shortest Sherpa’s today have become the optimum well. These bikes were the most ever made except for the 125’s. accessory plastic mudguards successful in sales as 2,050 of The 158 was 1290mm long and seen on a lot of trials bikes. These the 250’s were sold and 6,915 the 159 was 1315mm. It was not Sherpa’s went from May 1977 to of the 350’s were made. It was in a lot of change but it did make a August 1978 with a production this run that the last of the bikes big difference. run of 1,779 for the 250’s and started to come with strange there was 5,960 of the 350’s parts on them. I know that the Before bling there was Bing made. These were also the first one that I had I found out many The 159 was also the first Sherpa ones to have a plastic airbox and years after I was riding it was a to use a Bing carburettor as well. chain guard on them as well as 340cc engine which explains why The Bings were only used on the the first to be sold in and I could never buy rings for it. I have 350’s. The production run was the UK with the gear lever on the heard that a few of the last ones 1,641 for the 250cc version and wrong side and the brake pedal had old mudcatcher rims on them only 500 of the 350’s made. on the right hand side of the bike. and other strange things going in The first of them came off the They had to change them in the as the company just used what production line in July 1975 and US in 1976 when the Yanks made parts they had in stock as all their the last in June 1976. As you can it law that all motorcycles sold suppliers wanted cash up front see the 250 was by far the more in America had to have the gear for parts. This was also the first popular of the two. lever on the left hand side of the Sherpa to have black wheel hubs The next model was the 182/ 183 bike. as well as a cost cutting exercise. and it only had minor upgrades to These Sherpa’s were made from the bike and it was only a very short Swearing at Yanks October 1978 to 1979 and were run from March 1976 to August Bultaco owners have been called the 79 model. 1976. They looked the same as swearing at the Americans ever The next model was the last of the previous model as well. The since as it makes the gear change them and it was supposed to be production run for the 182/3 was very vague because of the gear an interim model as they had a 500 of the 250 and 790 of the shaft being extended to the other new engine almost ready to go 350 so there was more of the 350 side of the motor and a very contor- which would have moved the made in this model. The shock ted flexible and long gear stick. It countershaft a lot closer to the absorbers were also changed was also the first time the Sherpa Swingarm pivot and was a much between the two models as well had a cable operated rear brake more modern design. This is the though I can’t find any mention as well to move it to the other model that I own and it was never of what the changes were. The side. (Wrong side) It was around imported into Australia by the next model in the magnificent this time that the factory started importers or the dealers. This is the 198B and the 199B’s. The Finnish rider Yrjo Vesterin who with a Bultaco barrel on them. 198B was not really changed tried to ride for Montesa in 1980 These had the model number 111 anywhere near as much as moved to England and was the and they went from 1974 to 1979 the 199B. The frame and the first foreign rider to be granted an with a total of 2,746 made. mudguards were changed to English ACU licence. He was hired white and the rear frame loop over by Comerfords to ride and improve Highboy frame the rear mudguard was chopped the bike with Reg May. Vesty as he Sammy Miller had also made his off to lose some weight. was known won the English trials own frame to use the Bultaco championship very easily in 1982 engine called the Highboy frame The company was in real strife on a 360cc Sherpa T which was which are still being made today. now with the workers on strike very heavily modified. They first came out in the sixties and the managers unable to sack There were the other trials bikes and they all had no frame under anybody. The 350 was changed from the factory. They had a 125 the engine - it took Bultaco a from 83.2mm bore to an 85 mm which came out in late 1975. long time to go with that idea. bore so it went from 326.2cc to It was the 156 which was also Sammy Miller also made a lot of 340.47cc. This motor also went called in some countries the other parts most of which are still to a six speed gearbox as well Lobito T 125. This bike was a 5 available today through Sammy and had the first four gears close speed and there was 1,270 of Miller Products which he sold a together for section use and the this 125 made. Then came the few years ago. Reg May also made last two for transport. They had a 184/185 which came out in late a Bultaco for John Reynolds which few other changes as well like the 1976, early 1977. The 184 was a the modifications on it included sidestand changed shape again 75cc trials bike and the 185 was a no swingarm axle only bolts to amongst other small things like 125. There were 2260 of the 184 hold the Swingarm on to the the Amal levers and brackets on made and 2260 of the 185 made. frame as the Swingarm pivot was the front brake and clutch were These bikes also had a six speed over the back of the gearbox by a black instead of uncoloured. On gearbox. Then in 1978 there was long way and an axle would have this model they also changed the the 184A and the 185A of which had to go through the gearbox. primary gearing as well to suit the there were 770 of the 75cc bike In Australia Bultaco won the new gearbox and the final gearing and 1100 of the 125cc bike. Aussie titles in 1970/ Ian Gaff, went from 11/46 to 11/39 to In 1979 there was the 184B/185B 1971 with a Queenslander Dave use a smaller rear sprocket. It which changed colour to blue Pinkerton, 1978/ Ross Grimsey was on the last ones that they to match the larger Sherpa’s and in 1979 with Steve Johnson used a box section Swingarm as and they also received Motoplat on board. In the Aussie Sidecar well. I am not sure but I think the electronic ignitions. In 1978 there Championships a Bultaco won in swingarms were made in England was also the only 175 Sherpa 73/74/76/78/81/82/83/84/85 by Mick Whitlock (a noted frame ever made. It looked like an Alpina and 1987. In Post classic or maker) for the English importer which was the trailised trials bike Twinshock Bultaco won in Comerfords who changed the with different triple clamps and 1994/96/97/2007/08 and in Sherpa’s sold in England. This larger fuel tank and seat and 2009. model was supposed to come out slightly different gear ratios. Acknowledgement: Spanish Trials in 1980 but didn’t come out till This bike had only 361 of them Bikes by Don Morley, History of the 1981 and was the last one. The made. Then earlier than these Sherpa T by Albert Boer and Bultaco. total production was 270 of the was the El Tiron which was a A Real Myth by Joan Carles Orengo. 250’s and 1778 of the 340’s. This 100cc trialised Lobito. It was was sadly the end of the Sherpa made in 1972/3 and T. In England Comerfords kept the model number the bike going for the factory with was 73 and there my hero Reg May who knew more were 629 of these about Sherpa’s than anybody else made. Then there was including Paco Bulto. Reg fettled the baby of the range, Bultacos for years for all the the Chispa which was English Bultaco riders. It was Reg the only Bultaco not to May who made Martin Lampkins use a Bully engine in 1976 350 into a 370. it. They had a Ducati The three time world champion, 49cc 2 stroke engine New property looks good for 2012 By Chryss Jamieson

Every time I have driven the road from Esk to the Williams property, there was one place that caught my eye that looked like it would be good for trials and I cannot believe it, but we were invited to check the property over and if we thought it was good enough, then the owner was going to give us the OK to hold some events there. Travelling from Esk to Chris William’s place, Emervale is the last property before you climb up the mountain on the left hand side and has a big muddy dam in the front.

Running creek and great The terrain at Emervale offers a range of conditions to suit all grades access of trials riders and with some working bees will hopefully be on the We spent over two hours going calendar for 2012. through the creek which is always running, along the top ridges and back it just keeps going. Like any This place will be good in wet or around the base of the ridges place there is always the lantana dry conditions and as I see it we and I can tell you that this is one but not that much and our have a huge draw card having the great trials play ground with huge intention is to use the easy parts main highway running right past potential. We only looked at the first and just keep chipping away to get Sunday drivers and riders area close to the road but further at it as we go, just like Rockatoo. as spectators. If you have been in the trials arena for some time you know just how difficult it can be getting hold of good quality properties and I do hope this one will be available for some time. We will be holding our first event there next year so check the calendar. A big thanks to Shane Homan who is a relative new member to the club and who did the back ground work to get this together and Rowan who was as keen as I was to check this new place out.

If I put the B grade line here: Chryss Jamieson studies the potential of the new WDTC property Emervale, near Esk. Back to the future with the Aerial By Peter Aerial did away with the Sammy Miller started an association Ariel brand. with British bike manufacturer Ariel GOV 132 was still in 1956, when he rode GOV 132 in existence in the in the Scottish Six Day Trial. The B.S.A. era and was Ulsterman who went on to become now located at the a trials legend, was riding a James time with Sammy at the time until gearbox problems at the B.S.A. Small left him without a bike to enter. Heath factory. It was arranged with Ernie Smith The Ariel factory of Ariel for Sammy to borrow the staff were less than factory trials bike - the bike machine impressed with the had numerous accomplished riders complete takeover, What a beauty: Martyn Adam’s Aerial has been modified onboard before Sammy but there however Sammy had from the original but still looks the real deal with steel, was no real success to speak of. more facilities at his aluminium and chrome with precious little plastic. The bike started as a rigid frame disposal at the B.S.A. machine in 1947 and progressed to development works. a swing arm model by 1953. This era Sammy took up scrambling a B.S.A one made you need to provide an saw road racing riders spending the 250cc, which makes one question if original swinging arm. The frame summer on bitumen and the winter Sammy had much do with the B40 has the oil tank built in as part of riding trials. Ariel withdrew from army B.S.A. which was in a trials the frame structure. Steering rake road racing in 1958 and employed frame. angles are determined by the owner Sammy Miller on contract in the In 1964 Sammy left England to join and few different fork configurations Selly Oaks factory at Birmingham. the Bultaco factory and this story are available. Martyn can supply B.S.A. had a small percentage of features in Graham Weiss’s article barrels, heads, alloy primary cases, ownership of Ariel since around on the evolution of the Bultaco lightweight wheel hubs and various 1948, however the percentage Sherpa elsewhere in this issue. other components. For further information contact increased as the years rolled on, and My ambition is to recreate a close Martyn Adams at Birdwood by the early 1960s B.S.A. had total approximation to the GOV 132. I Motorcycle Engineering on (0421) ownership of Ariel and consequently have been gathering parts for a 874 513. number of years to this end. At this point in time I have enough parts Next year at Connondale we intend to build the 1947 version of it. In to bring out some heavy iron from the process of making enquiries the 1930’s to pre 1962. I know there about rebuilding the 1960s version, are quite a few of these gathering I discovered that the talented cobwebs in garages around south Martyn Adams is able to assist me east Queensland. I wonder what we in this quest. Many English bike would have to do to bring them out enthusiasts know Martin as his to the trials track? company supplies many lightweight Eds note: Some more heavy iron at parts for B.S.A and Triumphs. Conondale would be just great and something to look forward to. The Gollagher family made the pilgrimage to Australian titles in South Australia. They took some photos of Martyn Adams trials bike, and Going strong: the Aerial shows Dan Gollagher was lucky enough to ride it. its abilities with Martyn Adams at the helm at the Australian Martyn said the frame trials championships in South was made by John Bartram in England Australia in September 2011. and in order to have Side view of the Martyn Adams Aerial. Rider in focus: Lachlan Gibson Australian trials youth champion By Mark Casey is not to “embarrass myself “ in open grade. Lachlan plans to continue his training with Queensland open champion Boyd Willcocks as part of his preparation.

Best lesson In 2011 the stand out thing Lachlan learned was to never give up. At the Aussie titles he was in fourth place at the end of day one but pulled it back with a good ride on the second day to win the prestigious title.

Advice to junior Lachlan is the picture of concentration when he rides and he has taken to the big stuff admirably since starting to ride open in Queensland in 2010. His advice to the next generation of junior and youth riders is to be passionate, train with somebody at a higher level and of course work hard Barrel of fun: Lachlan Gibson concentrates on a tight section at the and train hard. Gold Coast arena trial in 2010. Lachlan is undecided on competing in the Aussie Hard work and dedication paid Lachlan who is a second titles in Western Australia in off this year for WDTC member year carpentry apprentice is September of 2012 – “it is Lachlan Gibson who won the looking forward to 2012 and subject to getting time off from youth division at the Australian has already started working work and affordability”. trials championships in South on his fitness through three Australia on the 2nd October. gym sessions a week. He He acknowledged the support Lachlan took his 280 will get serious on his bike of sponsor Gas Gas Motos to first place over New Zealand practice once he has sold his Australia and made sure rider Blake Fox and a field of 280 Gasser and purchased to mention the unstinting four other riders over the two a new machine. He confides devotion of his parents Rowan day event. that his main goal for 2012 and Richelle. Crosstraining at 245km/h WDTC stalwart Chryss Jamieson exciting string of events. We only lap record for Superkarts that talks about his other passion ended up third in the series due weekend with a time of 1.32.06 superkart racing and the to not getting our new kart only which is over a second and a half meteoric rise of his son Russell weeks before the Eastern Creek faster than Craig Lowndes V8 Jamieson in the sport in 2011. meeting and we did have trouble Supercar lap record of 1.33.6. getting use to the tuning. You Casey Stoner has the Moto GP There is one event on the trials have to figure it out fast or you lap record of 1.28.7 calendar each year which start to burn dollars on pistons In a space of five months Russell provides the best camping, fun and cylinders and not finishing now holds the lap record for events, Saturday night dinner, races. By the time we got to Superkarting on the Morgan Park entertainment, acres of paddocks Phillip Island we really had our track at Warwick, Eastern Creek for the kids to ride around on and head around all of that and out and now Phillip Island which of course some of the best creek of the 48 karts entered we took has never been achieved in the sections we get to see each year pole position by more than a history of the sport. – Conondale. second a lap which is a lot. This event has now become We won all the races except one Cost comparison bigger than Ben Hur and for the and Russell is now starting to V8 Supercar $500,000 plus first time since the WDTC club show maturity in race strategy Casey Stoners Honda $x Millions started going there which I think which is so important. was 18 years ago, my beloved We use an English made kart 250cc Superkart $35,000 trials event of the year clashed from Anderson Karts and Fuel - $9.30 per litre with my second sports event you can check the web site It certainly is a bit more expensive which is Superkarting. www.andersonkarts.com. than a new Gas Gas or Beta but We had a two round series The engine is an inline twin really gets the brain ticking once this year, the first in June at cylinder 250cc two stroke and you are on the track. Eastern Creek and the second puts out around 95hp. It has a Russell still claims that trials in November at Phillip Island. top speed of around 245km per riding is much more frustrating I decided not to compete this hour, with a six speed gear box, than Superkarts but is just the year and be chief pit crew for four wheel disc brakes and is so cheapest fun you can ever have Russell Jamieson and what an much fun to drive. Russell set the with a great bunch of people.

WDTC member, Russell Jamieson is now arguably the hottest prospect in Superkart racing having set track records at Warwick, Easter Creek and Phillip Island. So if you want to jump off the twin shock or modern trials bike and do some crosstraining at more than 200km/h, talk to the Jamieson boys. Trials moves forward in Queensland By Mark Casey With the new off-road facility at West Wyaralong officially opened on Sunday 18 December there is now a new venue to run trials and showcase the sport. A number of man-made sections When you need have already been set by some a shovel get a hardworking volunteers including big one: work Motorcycling Queensland Trials gets underway subcommittee members, Robert to set up trials Eyres and Andrew Carpenter. sections at West According to Robert the position Wyaralong. of the trials grounds is ideal to let people from other disciplines see the sport. Andrew who also serves on the WDTC committee and Robert also helped organise trials riders to demonstrate the sport for Queensland premier Anna Bligh. Robert and WDTC’s Rowan Gibson have also recently visited Maldon Victoria to get an More trials to ride in open to members of other clubs understanding about the FIM The newly released 2012 trials who pay the entry fee. On some World round set-up for May next calendar has a new feature in occasions the supplementary year. Robert and Rowan will pass that a member of an affiliated regulations may have a closed on their knowledge to a group MQ club can ride in club trials to club trial which restricts that of fellow Queenslanders who at other clubs. So instead of the event to club members. This have volunteered to observe and calendar having Logan River development gives riders more officiate at the trial. It is a whole Motorcycle Club (LRMCC) club opportunities to have some fun new ball game with four officials trial at Corcorans, Canungra on and highlights the positive way needed per section – a great 19 February it is now written trials clubs co-operate. experience is in store no doubt. as LRMCC trial to indicate it is Trials coaches Work has started by MQ and the trials sub-committee to run a course for trials coaches.This is a key aspect of any sport and having some more coaches in Queensland will be a great result. All in all some great work is underway for the sport thanks to the leadership and efforts of the sub-committee, MQ and the clubs.

Left: Looks like fun: a variety of obstacles makes up the first trials section at West Wyaralong. Trials world: more bikes and no stop rules By Mark Casey One of the big developments in a team. Queues are expected to New machines the world of trials is the move be reduced as well. On the other JTG has joined the list of trials by the Auto Cycling Union in hand many riders like the sport bike manufacturers with a new Britain to change its national the way it is and do not see the machine weighing some 65 championship to no stop rules. need to change it. The fact any kilograms featuring extensive The move in the country where stop meets a five is also criticised use of aluminium. The Jotagas trials was founded has attracted and considered difficult to police. bikes in 250cc and 280cc plenty of controversy judging by For example if a rider gets capacities was developed by comments on trials forums. A momentarily hung up on a log seven time world trials champion number of importers in Britain it’s a five. While Britain is going Jordi Tarres. were keen for the move and for no stop rules, my contact on Another healthy sign for trials but some argue the no stop version the trials ruling body in Ireland the sceptics might see there are is more attractive for spectators. says the stop allowed approach too many manufacturers for the The Scottish Six Days Trial has will continue there. Certainly a size of the market. Meanwhile been run for many years as a no development to watch. Gas Gas, , Beta and stop trial and attracts more Ossa have new models riders than it can handle and on the show room floor a big following of spectators. with updated features and Another argument from improvements. bike importers in Britain is that no stop would mean that minders would not be The new Jotagas trials bike required and in so doing has the rear shock mounted reduce the costs of running at the side of the frame.

European vacation for trials fans Richelle Gibson sent the newsletter some of the highlight pictures of the year including a selection from the Scottish Six Days Trial (SSDT)that she attended along with husband Rowan. Left: Mitch Green shows his colours at the Scottish Six Days Parade and in true Queenslander fashion is wearing shorts, not a kilt.

Above: I like the long range tank: Boyd Wilcocks and Mitch Green pictured with Gas Gas works rider Michael Brown at the SSDT. Left: After his European vacation, Above: Trials greats Sammy Miller Rowan Gibson could still get over and Gordon Jackson line up for the the logs at the Australian Trials SSDT. Championships last October. For Sale

Beta 2005 Ossa 280 with one year 2005 Beta - in pretty good warranty condition, hardly ridden in •Excellent condition 2011 the last 3 years. Recently had a Ossa 280i complete service which included •Fuel injected full rear suspension re-build, •Well maintained renewing of front and rear brake fluids, new front shock-absorber •Has balance of Ossa two fluid, and engine check, all done year factory warranty. by Denis Lovett. Priced to sell •Being sold due to change $4,200 ONO over to the new 2012 Ossa. Ohlins TTX Rear Monoshock Phone Russell Jamieson The engine, traction,suspension and Marzocchi 40mm Front 0433 736761 and build quality are amazing. Forks. Or Chryss Jamieson 0417 713409 Was $8500.Now $7990 Contact Scott Carpeter Sherco/ All stock standard and with the Ossa Queensland on smooth Fuel Injected 2 Stroke 0408 716428 or Mark Casey on engine. 0407 174573.Trade in enquires Enclosed motorcycle & welcome through Scott. camper trailer 3.1m x 2m size with single axle. Mechanical override drum brakes. Tidy 125 Sherco This would be an ideal bike for a Fits 3.5 bikes. Max height of Sherco 2010 125cc trials bike in youngster or beginner ride, being bikes 1.25m (Modern very good condition and has been light and easy to move around weapons are too high) well maintained. It was not used with a nice reliable motor. Sleeps 2+2. Mattresses included. much this year (about three trials) Was $6500, now $6250 Childrens beds are attached to due to injury and is being sold for Call Mark on 0407 174573 or side & fold out. They are for a young clubman rider to move up email [email protected] small children only. to a 250cc. Roof lifts up back & front and canvas insert with windows & screens fit space. Large fold down bench on side. 60l tank under with battery & pump ( for cleaning bikes). Internal lights. Well built but heavy - need strong ute to tow. Registered May 2012.

$3,750 ono. Contact Terry Telfer

Western Districts Trials Club Inc.

(Affiliated with Motorcycling Queensland and Motorcycling Australia) 2012 Membership Form

Member/Family Details

Surname: M.A. Licence number: Christian name/s: M.A. Riding number

1:

2:

3:

4:

5:

6:

Contact Details

It is the clubs policy to communicate with you via your email address. Please make sure your email is correct

Address:

Postcode:

Home Phone: Work Phone:

Mobile: Mobile 2:

E-mail 1:

E-mail 2: Agreement and Payment

If this application for membership into the Western Districts Trials Club Inc. is accepted, I agree to uphold all the ideals and by-laws of the Club as set out in the Club Constitution.

 Family membership $30.00  Licensed rider $18.00  Junior $10.00  Non Rider $10.00

Signed: Date:

Signed: Date:

Parent/Guardian: Date: Club Use Club Secretary: Club Treasurer: Paid: $ WARNING! THIS IS AN IMPORTANT DOCUMENT WHICH AFFECTS YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. READ IT CAREFULLY AND DO NOT SIGN IT UNLESS YOU ARE SATISFIED THAT YOU UNDERSTAND IT. See previous page. Western Districts Trials Club Inc.

(Affiliated with Motorcycling Queensland and Motorcycling Australia)

Membership Form

1. I HEREBY AGREE with the organisations and bodies corporate whose name appears above (hereinafter collectively caller “the organiser”) that I am by this agreement prepared to participate in Club activities at various venues under the conditions set out in this document.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF THE RISKS, DANGERS AND OBLIGATIONS

2. I ACKNOWLEDGE that motorcycle sport is dangerous and that by engaging in the sport and participating in the Meetings, working bees and other club activities I take and am exposed to certain risks and dangers and am under certain obligations as follows: (a) that I may be injured, physically or mentally and may be killed. (b) that my machinery or equipment may be damaged, lost or destroyed. (c) that other competitors may ride dangerously or with lack of skill. (d) that track or event conditions may be hazardous and may vary without warning or predictability. (e) that organisers, officials, landowners/track operators and any agents or representatives of those in charge of the Meeting are frequently obliged to make decisions under pressure of time and/or events. (f) that any policies of insurance of or in respect of my life or physical or mental health may be voided. (g) that there may be no or inadequate facilities for treatment or transport of me if I am injured. (h) that I have an obligation to myself and to others to compete safely and within the rules of competition.

INDEMNITY GIVEN TO ORGANISERS

3. IN CONSIDERATION of the acceptance of me as a club member in the Western Districts Trials Club activity, I AGREE TO INDEMNIFY the organisers and each of them in the following manner: (a) that I participate in the Meetings, working bees and other club activities and at my sole risk and responsibility. (b) that I accept the venue as it stands with all or any defects hidden or exposed. (c) that I indemnify and hold harmless the organisers, their respective servants, agents or officials against any actions or claims which may be made by me or on my behalf of by other parties for or in respect of or arising out of my death or any injury, loss or damage caused to me or to my machinery or equipment whether caused by negligence, breach of contract or in any other manner whatsoever.

Signed: Date:

Signed: Date:

Parent/Guardian: Date: End