NORTON Commando Aprilia RSV4 Italian Stallion Huh? a Convertible Harley® ? 961 Yamaha’S 1900Cc Stratoliner Deluxe Sport 1950 Vincent Series C Rapide

A New Magazine for People Who Love to Ride Free Subscription Vol. 1 No. 3 Sept/Oct 2010 2ride.ca

Just Landed – The NewNORTON Commando Aprilia RSV4 Italian Stallion Huh? A Convertible Harley® ? 961 Yamaha’s 1900cc Stratoliner Deluxe Sport 1950 Vincent Series C Rapide

P M 41979551 sept/OCT 2010 [1] Contents Features 6 2010 Yamaha Stratoliner Deluxe Going Off the Rails On the Crazy Train… 14 Roman Emperor for a Day Riding the 2010 Aprilia RSV4 R 20 From Bagger to the Boardwalk in Seconds Flat 2010 Harley-Davidson® FLSTSE CVO® Softail® Convertible 30 “SHADOWIZED” One man’s life astride a 1950 Vincent Series C Rapide… 34 Devil in a Blue Dress 2010 Suzuki GSX1250AE Sports-Tourer

42 Royal Thunder at the Gate

2010 Norton Commando 961

sept/OCT 2010 [2] sept/OCT 2010 [3] SubSCRIPTION IS FRee! Contents email us at [email protected] Follow us on Facebook too. 26 Adios, Red Rock www.2ride.ca Bryce Canyon national Park 38 Weekend in the life of a Motorcycle Instructor About the Cover: 26 2010 Norton Commando 961 sport. 50 2009 ktM 250 XCF-W photographed exclusively for 2Ride Magazine by Martin Besko, 54 We Have Azure Blue photography & Design. the Dirt on Alex

56 2010 Hyosung M3-250 General Inquires Contact [email protected] 58 Not an Accident Chief editor 59 What are you thinking? 50 Marc Agozzino 61 track Days & editors Race schedules Marc Antony paul Balsamo 62 simon Baker Alex Collins up Close and Personal Veronica Ramos Carrasco Damien eaton 64 sOAR- shaun de Jager extreme, endurance, Gene lee and an umbrella Boy? Mr lee 66 upcoming events 56 Mizz lucy sid Rochwerg 67 I Am Not Just a Wife of paul Rosemond a Rider, I am a Rider stella-the Riding princess Rory tse pre-Carribana 68 Art Direction Motorcycle Block party Martin Besko OW, the 2Ride team managed to accomplish a lot within this issue! 2Ride was able to cover the new VRRA- Azure Blue Design norton Commando 961, the only one here in Canada. Peter, the President of norton Canada, invited 2Ride 70 to the uncrating of this amazing new norton. We were also able to be part of a few anniversary events such Vintage Road Racing association event 62 Photography Was VRRa’s 30thanniversasry, Mosport’s 50th, and Port dover’s Friday the 13th’s 50th event celebrations. We are very CFk Ride- Wobblycat photography excited to be also covering vintage/classic bikes and racing events. 72 Marco Fernandes Cruise for kids thank you to all of our subscribers, supporters and sponsors. Our subscribership has been growing faster than eric McBride ever - so much so, that we’ve had to increase our numbers of print. even our Canadian troops overseas in afghanistan 74 Fri 13th-port Dover Don Roy/Royal Images are enjoying reading 2Ride. Azure Blue photography as 2Ride grows we are set on improving from issue to issue. We have redesigned our 2Ride.ca website which will be 77 project “s” online very soon. We have now added a submit Your Readers Photos section for those special moments you would Printing like to share. also, submit your articles and photos for the possibility of being published in the magazine and/or on 78 tech Corner 2Ride.ca to [email protected] . as always we really appreciate your comments so please send them to [email protected]. On a fi nal note we will be having a Vintage bike event on Sunday Sept 19th, check our facebook and website for Customer # 7303876 82 lori and Michael more details. www.2ride.ca 74 pM 41979551 2Ride’s Girl and Guy of the Month Marc agozzino sept/OCt 2010 [4] sept/OCt 2010 [5] Okay, just so we understand one another, from the get go, I cannot praise this gorgeous machine enough!

Stand by for temper- tantrum, in three, two, one… “I want one, I want one, I want one!”

y initial response when getting my first look at the 2010 Yamaha Stratoliner Deluxe? “Holy shitbuckets Batman, that’s a great lookin’M scooter!” I believe Danny at Yamaha Canada might have still been talking to me as I roared away with a grin as long as the 401 stretched across my lips. Oh! And how I contemplated keeping her, running away to Mexico with my little Consuela, high speed chases with the Federales and the like. But no, it wasn’t to be, I soon realized that Danny would most certainly notice if I didn’t bring the big Strato back! Damn, foiled again. Yamaha’s 2010 Stratoliner Deluxe is just art, plain and simple. I mean, let’s face it, its name alone suggests it’s above the competition, somewhere in the stratosphere, no? To me it seems like the bike that everyone has been trying to build, but only Yamaha could pull off. Going off the Rails The stylish lines of the Strato’s sculpted and elongated version of the “Bat-Wing” with a short windshield, Flangeless teardrop tank, adorned with stylish On the Crazy Train… chrome 3D speed lines, massive, fitted hard bags and flowing front and rear Into the Stratosphere on Yamaha’s 1900cc Stratoliner Deluxe light assembly gives it a “New-Classic” appeal, that I believe many are after, but STORY BY DAMIEN EATON few have achieved. Photography by Martin Besko - Azure Blue sept/OCT 2010 [6] sept/OCT 2010 [7] Look over her lines and you will at way, it’s a pleasure to look at while off of my face. Not to get too down- New for 2010 once notice the fearsome 113-cubic riding the crazy train. In-town or from hearted though, as this can be quickly • New model based on the XV1900 Stratoliner platform inch pushrod V-Twin engine. Floating town to town, the Strato begs to be rid- rectified by changing out the windshield • Classic design hard fairing with mini windshield. floorboards lie beneath weighty forward den. It handles like a dream, at no time for a taller one, based on your height. • Fairing amenities includes integrated speakers and pre-wired heel-toe controls that scream open road feeling overpowering to the rider, yet The second and slightly more con- for easy connection of an iPod® player. comfort. The Strato offers you a long not leaving you wanting more. cerning, is the rather small gas tank, • Convenient handlebar mounted audio controller. and low hung aluminum frame for hours and large displacement arrangement. • Beautifully styled, colour matched hard saddlebags. of riding enjoyment, and a plush form Most of us that ride, especially on the Yamaha suggests 16.5kpl/45mpg (Imp), fitting seat to further ensure you do so. cruiser or bagger side of things, are all but as a rider, I found myself at the Engine There is more than enough chrome to about personalizing our rides. Yamaha’s pump more frequently that those specs • 1854cc, air-cooled, long-stroke, OHV, 4 valves per cylinder, 48°, curb even the greediest among us and Star catalog provides an endless array may suggest. V-twin powerplant produces massive torque and class leading just enough flat black components in of ads for your new Stratoliner Deluxe. All said and done, Yamaha’s 2010 Strato- acceleration. amongst the high gloss finish to be ap- Now to be honest there is not too much liner Deluxe, is one breathtaking motor- • Traditional pushrod valve actuation keeps engine height down preciated subtly. Take her for a ride and I would do to this artful dodger, less for cycle, that I could see myself riding for a lower centre of gravity and ensures more uniform heat the 1.25” thick pullback bar gives you maybe a pair of fishtail pipes, rather that quite happily for years to come. They dissipation due to absence of a cam chain case. A lower centre of the impression you are at the reins of a the stock two-into-one exhaust, firstly have managed to design a jaw dropping, gravity helps to insure light, easy handling. chariot, while your left thumb navigates to accentuate that throaty exhaust note gorgeous, love at first sight machine, • Four-valve cylinder heads provide optimal breathing efficiency the iPod controls. Oh! Didn’t I mention and to keep its symmetry flowing. with gut wrenching; I think I just left my for great power delivery at all rpms. The two spark plugs per that? The Strato Deluxe comes standard Although it kills me to say it and I hate intestines on the last block, torque and cylinder means faster, more complete combustion for maximum with integrated speakers and an iPod to give any naysayers a leg up here, but high gloss style and value to spare. power output. jack hidden in the wing, plus a conven- there are two things that I dislike about So if the big-wigs in Hollywood ever • Cylinder head design utilizes a pent roof combustion chamber ient, handlebar-mounted audio control this incredible bike. decide to remake “The Wild One”, it may design and features an oil passage near the exhaust valve seat system. Also, the instrumentation is First – the tiny windshield atop the fair- take them some looking to re-cast Mar- to improve cooling and durability. The new heads also feature done in a, what Yamaha calls “Classic- ing? I mean really, the head buffeting on lon Brando’s part, but I’m pretty sure, engine mounting points on each side of the head for increased Clock” theme, to me it looks more like an the highway can be atrocious, I ended up they’ve found their bike. chassis rigidity for exceptional handling. old radio set from the thirties, but either losing a set of glasses that literally flew …All aboard! • Large size valves increase engine horsepower and torque. The intake valves are 36mm in diameter while the exhaust valves are 31mm. • Specially designed valve train includes short design intake and exhaust rocker arms that reduce inertia during high-rpm use. • High performance spec twin, crankcase-mounted, high-lift cams ensure strong torque and class leading acceleration. • Mechanical centrifugal decompression mechanism located in each of the exhaust camshafts insures fast, easy starts. This system reduces weight and complexity since no solenoid etc. is required. • Hydraulic valve lifters driven by the twin camshafts deliver exceptional performance and significantly reduce maintenance and tune-up requirements. • Large-diameter pistons are both durable and lightweight. Yamaha’s exclusive “controlled forged construction” keeps the pistons light for faster response and reduce vibration and reciprocating mass. The pistons feature an Alumite coating to reduce friction. • The dry sump oil lubrication system has been optimized to ensure maximum lubrication and cooling. Special oil nozzles direct oil at the bottom of the pistons to cool and lubricate them. • Special “dual chamber” crankcase design. The front section is for the crank assembly while the rear is for the transmission. Two, 3-rotor high capacity oil pumps optimizes oil flow in each of the two main sections of the engine. sept/OCT 2010 [8] sept/OCT 2010 [9] • Ceramic composite-plated cylinders provide uniform heat backfiring when decelerating or coasting off throttle. dissipation, reduce weight, reduce friction and increase cylinder • High-performance, 2-into-1-exhaust system features large size service life. header pipes for maximum flow. The single muffler contains a • Cooling fin thickness and depth is optimized for maximum 3-way honey comb matrix catalyzer to reduce harmful exhaust heat dissipation, thereby eliminating the need for liquid cooling, emissions. The stylish muffler helps to boost torque and while maintaining that traditional, stylish air-cooled engine horsepower while producing a throaty, V-twin growl. appearance. • The exhaust system also features a lightweight titanium • Optimized “damper-less” crankshaft allows the rider to feel EXUP exhaust power valve most commonly found on high the directness of the engine’s power. For each rotation of the performance sport bikes. The EXUP system not only provides rear wheel, in 5th gear, the crank spins 3.14 times providing an crisp throttle response and eliminates “flat spots” but also outstanding rear wheel driving force feeling to the rider. improves acceleration and reduces fuel consumption and • Compact design dual counterbalancers reduce vibration for harmful emissions. exceptional rider and passenger comfort. The balancers are • Dry sump lubrication system means a more compact engine positioned on either end of the crankshaft to vibration. design since the oil tank is not part of the engine, which lowers • “Tri-axis” crankcase layout means the crankshaft, main axle the centre of gravity for great handling and a light feel. A handy, and drive shaft are specially arranged to minimize the size of spin-on oil filter means fast, easy oil changes. the engine cases and centralize mass. • Frame mounted oil cooler is a first on a Yamaha cruiser. The • Mikuni 43mm, twin-bore, downdraft throttle body fuel cooler maintains consistent oil temperatures for optimum injection (FI) with throttle position sensor (TPS) ensures great cooling and lubrication of this massive V-twin powerplant. throttle response and maximum power throughout the rev • Smooth-shifting, 5-speed transmission features optimized range. This system is a “closed loop” system since it utilizes gear ratios for strong acceleration and relaxed cruising at an oxygen sensor in the exhaust to monitor the concentration highway speeds. of oxygen and adjust the FI system if necessary. The benefits • 2-piece heel-and-toe shifter adds versatility and enhances of fuel injection include chokeless the overall cruising experience. The operation, increased fuel economy, 2-piece design allows the rider to instant throttle response and individually adjust front and rear reduced emissions. portions to suit foot size or remove • The 12-hole, 2-directional Mikuni the rear section if not desired. fuel injectors produce a wide spray • Heavy duty 10 plate clutch is pattern for complete cylinder designed to compliment engine filling. This special spray pattern power characteristics. This clutch combined with the dual spark plug is operated by a hydraulic master heads ensure complete combustion cylinder instead of a cable. The for maximum power. An Idle Speed hydraulic clutch design is low Control (ISC) has been adopted to maintenance, self adjusting and ensure stable idling performance. very stylish. • High capacity electronic fuel pump • Low-maintenance belt drive is located in the sub tank under the system not only significantly seat. reduces maintenance but is also • State-of-the-art Electronic clean and quiet. A belt drive system Control Unit (ECU) ensures precisely uses less power than a shaft drive metered fuel delivery and optimal and reduces unsprung weight for ignition spark control using 3D great rear suspension performance. transistorized coil ignition mapping for each cylinder. Chassis/Suspension • 3.5 litre dual inlet air filter box • Aluminium, die cast, double-cradle is located under the tank. There are intake ducts at the front frame reduces weight, while balancing strength and rigidity. So if the big-wigs in Hollywood ever decide to and rear of the air box for maximum breathing efficiency. This The critical head pipe area features box type construction for design not only maximizes air flow but also reduces weight. A additional strength. The frame not provides excellent handling remake “The Wild One”, it may take them some looking viscous paper type air filter is used. characteristics but also compliments the beautiful flowing lines • Air Induction System (AIS) injects fresh oxygen at the exhaust of the rest of the chassis and bodywork. The engine is rigidly to re-cast Marlon Brando’s part, but I’m pretty sure, port to insure complete combustion thereby reducing harmful mounted in the frame for added rigidity. exhaust emissions (HC & CO) while a special air cut valve reduces • Lightweight C.F. die cast aluminium swingarm offers superb sept/OCT 2010 they’ve found their bike. sept/OCT 2010 ( [10] ) [11] rigidity and ensures excellent stability and handling. The C.F. traction and reduced rolling resistance. preferences. engine die casting process allows for beautiful shapes that are both • Two-piece seat design features a wide, flat profile for excellent • Classic design hard fairing with mini windshield provides Type...... Air-cooled, OHV, 8-valve, 48°, V-twin w/EFI strong and light. This new swingarm is a fashion statement in rider comfort. The passenger seat features a small lip at the rear a unique styling cue while offering great wind and weather Displacement...... 1,854cc Torque...... 17.1 kg-m (123.7 ft-lbs.) @ 2,500rpm aluminium and compliments the rest of the Stratoliner’s eye of the seat providing a secure feeling for the passenger. protection. This handlebar mounted fairing includes integrated Bore and Stroke...... 100 x 118 mm Compression Ratio...... 9.5:1 catching styling. • Teardrop shaped rider floorboards with floating rubber speakers and is pre-wired for easy connection of an iPod® player. Fuel Delivery...... Mikuni Dual 43mm cross bore throttle body F.I. • Rigid 46mm front fork offers 130mm (5.1”) of wheel travel for inserts that reduce vibration. • Convenient handlebar mounted audio controller. Est. Fuel Consumption*...... 16.5kpl / 46mpg (Imp) Lubrication...... Dry sump / 5.2 litre exceptionally stable handling and great ride comfort. The fork • 51w /55w high efficiency Irradiation headlight. This is a 2 bulb • Beautifully styled, colour matched hard saddlebags provide Ignition/Starting...... Digital TCI/ Electri features “slash cut” large diameter blacked-out fork shrouds to design, one for low beam and one for high beam. The unique ample storage for causal weekend tours. Transmission...... 5-speed enhance the “neo-streamliner” styling. headlight body compliments the “neo-streamline” styling. Final Drive...... Belt • Beefy, cast aluminium, top and bottom triple clamps help • Steel fenders front and rear can be easily customized or Details suspension increase fork rigidity and reduce weight. painted to suit personal preferences. The front fender features Front...... 46 mm fork • Industry-leading, Star Family fit and finish creates a machine as Rear...... Adj. link Monocross • Link rear suspension features a spring preload adjustable a classic chromed fender stay. stunning as it is powerful. tires single rear shock delivering outstanding ride comfort and • Flangeless teardrop style fuel tank. This is the first flangeless • Extra wide, brake and clutch levers provide that quality feel Front...... 130/70R18 precise handling. The shock is horizontally positioned under tank used on a Yamaha cruiser. There are no welds visible, and look. Rear...... 190/60R17 the engine for a lower center of gravity and is hidden to provide providing that custom look. The total fuel capacity is 17 litres • Highly visible, clear look LED taillight brakes Front...... Dual 298 mm disc that classic “hardtail” look. Rear wheel travel is 110mm (4.3”). thanks to a 3 litre sub tank located low in the frame below the • Self-canceling turn signals (15 seconds or 150 meters) with Rear...... 320 mm disc • Powerful dual 298mm floating front discs are squeezed by seat. A high pressure electric fuel pump with quick connect stylish clear lenses. specifications ultra rigid, 4-piston, monoblock calipers provide sport-bike fittings provide fuel to the EFI system. • Stylish 3D speed lines on the fuel tank Length...... 2,580 mm (101.6”) spec stopping power. Providing exceptional stopping power, • Large 1.25” diameter handlebars. All electrical wires are Width...... 1,100 mm (43.3”) • Low-fuel warning light Height...... 1,320 mm (52”) these brakes also provide great lever feel and feedback. hidden inside the handle bars for that clean custom look. • Low maintenance sealed battery Wheelbase...... 1,715 mm (67.5”) Ground Clearance...... 155 mm (6.1”) • Huge 320mm rear disc is squeezed by a single piston caliper Selected meter functions can be controlled by buttons on the • Fork lock integrated into main ignition switch for extra Seat Height...... 705 mm (27.8”) mounted below the swingarm for a lower center of gravity and back of RHS switch. Fuel Capacity...... 17 litres (3.7 Imp. gal.) convenience Wet Weight...... approx. 368kg (810 lb) that customized “hidden look”. • Fuel tank mounted instrument panel. This panel has the • Numerous blacked out components including: forks, handlebar Colour(s)...... Metallic Black • Lightweight polished 12 spoke cast aluminium mag wheels classic “clock” image face. Just below the large analogue speedo switches, selected engine covers reduce weight and enhance handling and styling. The front is an analogue tach and fuel gauge. Other functions include wheel is MT 4.00x18 while the rear wheel is a MT 5.50x17. digital odometer, dual tripmeters, fuel reserve trip counter and Both are fitted with tubeless radial tires that provide excellent clock. Background illumination can be adjusted to suit personal

sept/OCT 2010 [12] sept/OCT 2010 [13] Marco swung a leg over the RSV4 and upper lip and chin), while the Road mode remarked that the position was not too magically transforms the bike into a uncomfortable for him. I suspect Marco CBR125R. Sport Mode: um, a CBR1000RR? also enjoys poking his eyes out with a Just kidding! An indicator on the sharp stick and lying on a bed of nails as dashboard may let you know which a relaxing pastime. mode you are in, but a twist of An interesting feature of the engine the throttle will quickly confirm is the ability to switch between three whether you are in Track mode, or different riding modes, purposely in the wrong mode. crippl.., I mean, offering differing The engine comes alive around 6500 levels of maximum output and throttle rpm, whereupon a butterfly valve in the response in each mode. The modes are exhaust opens up to optimize power. labeled Track, Sport and Road. The most It’s best to keep the revs around this aggressive Track mode will deliver all clip-level, in ready response to the fun 180 horses to the whim of your right grip in your right hand, but be prepared hand and grow hair on your chest (and to re-fuel the 17L tank within 150 kms

STORY BY Gene Lee Roman Emperor For a Day Photos by Riding the 2010 Aprilia RSV4 R Marco Fernandes

am perched atop an imperator’s RSV4, the latest offering from the RSV 1000 R, the RSV4 is a clean-sheet higher than most Japanese sportbikes. throne; all other superbikes bow manufacturer with the most victories in design that adds two more cylinders To compensate, the footpegs are also down before me. I weave my way the history of GP racing. to the 1000 R’s V-Twin configuration. mounted higher for cornering clearance, through my subjects, one by one, I am Max Biaggi, if only for a day. And what an engine! A narrow 999.6cc folding your knees and legs up above dismissing the Italian pretender As his RSV4 Factory leads the World 65˚ V4 allows the bike to carry quite them, and there is a long reach to the from Bologna with nary a glance behind Superbike Championship by 60 points slender proportions. In fact, every low-slung clip-ons. This is a focused bike Ime. I pass all manner of Japanese with only 6 races left, the Roman dimension of the motorcycle seems that puts the rider in a good position warriors, Samurais of Slide and Ninjas Emperor (as he is known) seems certain much more compact than your average to move around the motorcycle while green with envy. My pace is confident as to bring home Aprilia’s maiden victory litrebike, seemingly built around railing around the corners of Assen, I stride ahead, and my subjects push and in this series. So it was with great Biaggi’s diminutive frame. Being of Misano, Brno and um… Shannonville…? shove each other to fall into line behind anticipation that I clambered aboard similar stature (though lacking both However it is probably not a good me. This is the seat of power: 180hp of his ride, to find out what makes a racing talent and a dodgy Peter Sellers position for crawling around the curves V4 fury that propels an emperor to the championship-leading bike tick, and to moustache & goatee), I found the seating on the DVP at 5PM on a weekday. I know top step of the podium of production feel like a Superbike Caesar for a day. position and ergonomics very aggressive this from first-hand experience. motorcycle racing. This is the Aprilia Built as a replacement for the aging but track-friendly. The 33.3” seat is Our 6’2” tall, 1098-riding photographer sept/OCT 2010 [14] sept/OCT 2010 [15] Engine: 999.6 cc longitudinal 65° V-4 cylinder, 4-stroke, Ø 43 mm stanchions. Forged aluminium radial calliper liquid cooling system, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), mounting brackets. Completely adjustable spring preload four valves per cylinder, 13:1 compression ratio, 78 x 52.3 and hydraulic compression and rebound damping. Wheel mm bore x stroke travel: 120 mm Maximum power/torque (at the crank): Rear suspension: Twin sided aluminium swingarm; 180 HP at 12,500 rpm / 85 lbs-ft at 10,000 rpm mixed low thickness and sheet casting technology. Sachs piggy back monoshock with completely adjustable: spring Fuel system: Airbox with front dynamic air intakes. 4 preload, wheelbase, hydraulic compression and rebound Weber-Marelli 48-mm throttle bodies with 8 injectors and damping. APS progressive linkage. Wheel travel 130mm latest generation Ride-by-Wire engine management. Choice of three different engine maps selectable by the rider with Brakes: Front: Dual 320-mm diameter floating stainless bike in motion: T (Track), S (Sport), R (Road) steel disc with lightweight stainless steel rotor and aluminium flange with 6 pins. Brembo monobloc radial Ignition: Magneti Marelli digital electronic ignition callipers with 4 Ø 34-mm opposite. Sintered pads. Radial system integrated in engine control system, with one spark pump and metal braided brake hose Rear: 220-mm diameter plug per cylinder and “stick-coil”-type coils disc; Brembo calliper with two Ø 32 mm separate pistons. Sintered pads. Pump with integrated tank and metal Exhaust: 4 into 2 into 1 layout, single oxygen sensor, braided hose lateral single silencer with engine control unit-controlled butterfly valve and integrated trivalent catalytic converter Tires: Radial tubeless. Front: 120/70 ZR 17 (Euro 3) Rear: 190/55 ZR 17 Gear box: 6-speed cassette type gearbox 1st: 39/15 (2.6) Dimensions: Length: 2040 mm Width: 735 mm (at the 2nd: 33/16 (2,063) 3rd: 34/20 (1.7) 4th: 32/22 (1,455) 5th: 34/26 handlebar) Height: 1120 mm Height from the ground: 130 mm (1,308) 6th: 33/27 (1,222) Seat height: 845 mm Trail: 105 mm Steering angle: 24.5° Clutch: Multiplate wet clutch with mechanical slipper system Dry weight: 184 kg Front suspension: Upside-down Showa fork with Fuel tank capacity: 17 litres (4-litre reserve included)

Thanks to Tim Sarch at BMW Toronto for supplying 2Ride with an RSV4 R for a test ride and photo shoot.

“I pass all manner of Japanese Warriors, Samurais of Slide and Ninjas green with envy”

to pay for all this fun. The low, throaty put to the test on a proper race track. with a slipper clutch, with just the right growl emanating from the stock pipe On the road, the bike is enjoyably agile, amount of engine braking dialed in to tells the world it’s not just another and turn-ins are lightning quick. It’s prevent free-wheeling into a corner. howling inline-4. Power builds steadily easy to see why this bike is at the sharp One thing I have to admit: this bike until a torrent of thrust arrives at 10,000 end of the Superbike race pack every is easy on the eyes. Aprilia has done a rpm and peaks at 12,500 rpm, but by Sunday. If you’re serious about your terrific job of styling one of the best that time the world (or the next corner) suspension, opt for the upgraded RSV4 looking sportbikes in the market. By as far as you could’ve seen has already Factory, which buys you fully adjustable far the prettiest feature is the MotoGP- arrived and it’s time to put the Brembo Öhlins forks, shock and steering damper, inspired tail piece. Small and upturned, monobloc binders to good use. and also a raft of carbon fiber bits and it sports two racy fins that echo the Our test RSV4 R came shod with a bragging rights in the Timmie’s parking same theme on top of the tank and the Sachs rear shock and Showa forks which lot. As further confirmation that this sides of the fairing. The bare aluminum do an admirable job handling an urban is truly a track-ready weapon, both dual spar frame is a continuation of the terrain, but this setup would better be R and Factory models come standard RSV 1000 R’s design and the Mille before sept/OCT 2010 [16] sept/OCT 2010 [17] it, providing some genetic continuity at $19,499 CDN, while the upgraded have been valued accordingly! across generations. The exhaust is a RSV Factory model is priced at $25,995 Aprilia has delivered to the large, stylized rectangular box slapped CDN, again priced under the Ducati’s marketplace a thinly disguised racebike on the side of the bike, centimeters away upgraded 1198S. in beautiful street trim, which should from the bottom of your right boot. At And just recently Aprilia has appeal to both track day junkies and a standstill the heat from the pipe is a announced the drool-worthy RSV4 freeway riders who want a great sole-melting experience. If you are going Biaggi Replica, sporting team sponsor’s handling bike with lots of power and to ride this bike, keep it moving. And Alitalia white, red and green colours, a that turns heads wherever they ride or keep it moving fast! lot more WSBK-spec kit and an extra 20 park. Cutting through highway traffic, As the RSV4s do battle with the other ponies. Although Canadian pricing has this bike hates to have anything in front Italian entry on the World Superbike not been announced for this top-range of it but a chequered flag. It was born circuit, so too do they go head-to- model, European pricing already puts to lead. I may never be a Superbike head on the showroom floor. The base it above the 1198R. It seems that since king, but at least I can sit on the very RSV4 R gives Ducati’s 1198 some stiff Aprilia race bikes are beating Ducatis on same cramped throne that the Roman competition, coming in $500 cheaper the racetracks, the race replicas Emperor himself sits upon. sept/OCT 2010 [18] sept/OCT 2010 [19] In bright sunlight, From Bagger to you will need a pair of The Boardwalk Harley-Davidson® branded sunglasses to in Seconds Flat stare at this monster of chrome.

STORY BY Gene Lee Photos by MArco Fernandes

sept/OCT 2010 [20] sept/OCT 2010 [21] was told that we were kicks in and starts calculating picking up a Harley- how much time it’s going to take Davidson® CVO™ Softail® to to keep this thing shiny and test-ride for a week. clean. But it’s the larger part of IRag-top cars from the MoCo? your gray matter, the part that Really? I guess if they’re building gets hypnotized by shiny things, trikes now, then 4-wheelers can’t that marvels over the chromed be that far behind. grips, chromed levers, chromed The 2010 Harley-Davidson® reservoir, chromed fuel lines, CVO™ Softail® Convertible is not a chromed footboards, chromed car. In fact, just as a convertible etc. In bright sunlight, you will automobile refers to the fact that need a pair of Harley-Davidson- you can “convert” an enclosed branded sunglasses to stare at vehicle to an open-air one, the this monster of chrome. convertible in this case means Certain items stand out once that your cross country bagger your eyes get accustomed to the can now be easily converted glare. A very pretty chrome gauge into a ‘round-the-town cruiser, on the tank displays the speed without the need for any tools. in large digital numbers, as an And best of all, you’ll be doing analog tachometer needle sweeps it in style, as the CVO™ (which around the circumference of the stands for Custom Vehicle display. The indicator lights are a Operations™) treatment means bit difficult to read with a full face that Harley® has thrown every helmet, and it’s clear that Harley option in the parts catalog onto engineered the display for the this bike. beanie-sporting riders. Special All this comes at a price though, 5-spoked chromed Stinger wheels as the base model comes in at a are a crowd favorite, especially if hefty $33,259, an almost $13,000 you are diligent about polishing premium to the basic Softail® them to a mirror finish. And Custom. One could argue that the view of the rear wheel is most owners would probably decorated with a belt cover made spend close to that figure of, you guessed it: shiny chrome. upgrading and customizing their To move all this extra gleaming ride over time, so to spend it all at metal, the CVO™ team has opted once might be a painful, but very to install the colossal 110-inch quick way of getting the bike the Screamin’ Eagle® Twin Cam way you want it. And you do get engine. That’s over 1800 ccs quite a lot for that premium! of metric muscle! Our tester The first thing that catches included a Ventilator air cleaner your eye is the dazzling amount kit with a protective rain sock of chrome that adorns this cover that drew lots of pointed beauty. A little part of your brain fingers at the local Timmies.

sept/OCT 2010 [22] sept/OCT 2010 [23] The grunt from this engine is Harleys only have a single front polishing all that chrome... palpable from launch, as the CVO™ brake rotor, and this question Convertible will strain the neck becomes more pertinent when Gene Lee has tried to set a record for the number of times the word chrome has muscles of both the rider and there’s more machine to move, been mentioned in a motorcycle article. other motorists as they crane and more engine to move it with. That number is now 14. their heads to get a better look at Stopping in an assertive fashion Present what just passed them. means really squeezing the front this Ad The ride is for the most part brake lever, and it doesn’t help ® ® 2011 Harley-Davidson to recieve very much like a typical Softail, that Harley levers also double as FLSTSE2 CVO™ Discounts! a bit heavy and tipsy at slower hand-grip strengtheners for the ® speeds. The riding position is exercise-conscious. Softail Convertible feet forward, arms outstretched, But now the best part: you’ve $5999$5999 $6999$6999 dimensions +HST (MSRP $6949) +HST (MSRP $8349) which is accentuated by the ridden for days with clothing, a Length 94.9 in. (2,385 mm) customized low-seat (24.4” chamois, and about three or four Weight 754 lbs. (343 kg) 2009 2009 Running Order 781 lbs. (355 kg) Kawasaki seat height). During aggressive bottles of Quik Detailer in the Ground Clearance 4.3 in. (110 mm) Kawasaki Wheelbase 64.2 in. (1,620 mm) Ninja 650 turning, clearance is always an stock leather saddlebags. After Seat Height: Vulcan • Laden 24.4 in. (619.8 mm) issue with the Softails, so unless checking into the motel, a turn • Unladen 26.19 in. (650 mm) 500 you want to grind down those of a couple of hand screws inside expensive chrome footboards, it’s the bags and a few clips on the engine *Prices include Engine Twin Cam 110B™ all freight & best to set a prudent cornering windshield and you can leave the Displacement 110 ci (1,803 cc) Bore x Stroke 4 x 4.38 in. (101.6 x 111.25 mm) PDI Costs* speed. But if prudence does bags, shield and passenger seat Torque 110 ft. lbs. @ 3,000 rpm (145 Nm @ 2,750 rpm) Cash prices listed include all factory incentives and do not include HST and licence fee where applicable; Vehicle may not be exactly as shown; While supplies last; Call Kahuna Powersports at 416-743-3117 for details. give way to exuberance, the (and passenger) in your room, Compression Ratio 9.15:1 Fuel System Electronic Sequential Port Fuel floorboards are hinged. Don’t ask ready to hit the boulevard with Injection (ESPFI) Fuel Capacity 5 gal. (18.9 l) me how I know... a lean and mean street machine. MPG Rating 34 city / 50 highway Clutch Multi-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath I’ve always wondered why most That is, after you’ve finished Cooling Air Exhaust Chrome, shorty-dual with chrome mufflers and muffler shields Oil Capacity 3 qt. (2.8 l)

drivetrain Transmission 6-speed Primary Drive Chain, 34/46 ratio Final Drive Carbon fiber belt Gear Ratios 1st: 9.311 2nd: 6.454 3rd: 4.793 4th: 3.882 5th: 3.307 6th: 2.79

brakes/wheels/tires Brakes Front: 4-piston fixed Rear: 2-piston floating Wheels Front & Rear: Chrome Stinger™ cast aluminum Tires Front: 130/70R18 63V Rear: 200/50R18 76V

operational Rake 32° Trail 5.8 in. (147 mm)

other Colors : Two-tone Maple Metallic / Roman Gold with Burnished Copper Graphics, Two-tone Scarlet Red Pearl / Dark Slate Pearl with Metal Grind Graphics, Two-tone Midnight Sky / Candy Cobalt with Blue Ice Graphics

sept/OCT 2010 [24] sept/OCT 2010 [25] fter a cold night’s sleep we awoke to a clear blue sky and cool mountain air, with the promise of a The sight defies description much warmer day to come. We grabbed a quick breakfast. Bryce ACanyon and Highway 12 were two items and is something everyone on our ‘to do’ list today and we were jazzed! The entrance to Bryce Canyon should see and experience. National Park was unassuming. It foretold of nothing of which we had yet to experience. The guide at the Visitor’s Centre told us the road was twelve miles long. She said to go to the very end and stop at the look-outs on the way down because they are all on the right side. We took her advice and headed onto the road. It climbed ever upward with forests on both sides. Some patches of trees looked blackened from fire which was a sad sight to see. The road wound around and the air was cooler and thinner than it had been just a few miles ago. We reached the summit at an altitude over 8000 feet. We walked towards the edge of the lookout. My heart started thumping and my blood was pumping. The sight defies description and is something everyone should see and experience. As far as the eye could see there were enormous and incredible red rock formations rising straight up out of the deep canyons beyond. Struck against the clear blue sky, they appeared unworldly and prehistoric. It was as if we had landed on another planet. Although many people were there, the sounds of the voices melted away into the immensity of the opening. The shapes were the result of millions of years of wind, ice and rain erosion. The result was stunning. We had never seen anything such as this. It cannot be found anywhere else on earth. We pulled ourselves away and rode to the next lookout. People were so nice. Story Submitted When they saw us taking pictures of each other they offered to take a picture by Ricki Letofsky of the two of us together in front of “Adios, Red Rock” these amazingly beautiful views. Even looking at our pictures later, there is sept/OCT 2010 [26] sept/OCT 2010 [27] every day of their lives. For us, it was looked, there was an incredible sight. we begin to ascend upward again. The “When faced with the beauty and a startling change from the miles of The summit was at 9600 feet. Around highway is following another mountain immense solid rock we had just viewed. another curve and suddenly we are faced side and we follow the highway. Now as complexity of the canvas before us, Gradually the road began climbing. with nothing but red and white rock we climb the mountain sides are covered We were on a mountain and the two lane mountains below us – spreading out with huge Ponderosa Pine trees. The highway wound around and around. for miles. The height at the summit is highway straightens and another picture it left us breathless with wonder.” Sometimes we were on the inside lane dizzying and the sight is blinding. The appears of meadows and cattle grazing. and sometimes we were on the edge road starts to descend. We stop for a It is almost surreal. This is indeed the with sheer drop offs thousands of feet photo op near a stream running through most incredible and scenic byway we ( ) down. The sun was shining; the sky was the rocks. I know we both want and need have ever seen. Every curve in the road clear blue – not a cloud. It was hot but to catch our breath. Especially Bernie, brought a new, sometimes terrifying, but while we kept moving the air was cool. after he maneuvered the bike up always an amazing sight. The terrain The highway is going up, up, up and the and around countless curves, left and and landscape changed with every mile. curves were hairpin tight. The signs right, on the edge of the mountain, The highway sculptors should be proud. indicated speed limits of 5 mph - there carrying me and my H-D t-shirts – At the summit, Bernie had remarked, was no need for speed here! not light baggage! “you haven’t ridden a motorcycle until I am snapping pictures to the left; to We are back on flat ground, for the you’ve ridden Highway 12 in Utah”. Hey the right; in front and below. Bernie had moment anyways! The terrain changes everyone - Get over here! to keep his eye on the road. We never as the mountains recede into the We reach the end of Highway 12 at the knew when we came around a turn what distance with desert floor surrounding Highway 24 junction. We are on the way would await, but no matter where we us on both sides. Before we know it to our next destination.

nothing comparable to the reality of The last lookout had a path for a better Canyon and struck out northward at the being there and seeing it. I am definitely view. Although I am not fond of heights, start of Highway 12. After the beauty at a loss for words! Each lookout has I ventured out, walking carefully and we had just experienced we wondered a name and the elevation. There were slowly. I hugged the inside part of the how America’s Number One Scenic views with structures which appeared path and hugged Bernie tighter! We Highway would compare. We were as rock bridges, the stone worn away could see for miles. The formations not disappointed. This time man and through the middle over time leaving climbed high into the sky and we could nature combined to bring a startling and enormous yet tenuous links between see where ‘windows’ had formed inside incomparable vista to our senses. two sides of the canyons. We kept going the rock. The sight went on forever We started descending so that down to each new lookout and each time and it is something neither of us will eventually we were riding on the we could not believe our eyes. It was ever forget. roads below and outside the canyons so immense it was almost too much to We eventually tore ourselves away we had just left. The beautiful red comprehend on a human level. When from this mesmerizing view. We had rock mountains surrounded us in the faced with the beauty and complexity of a destination, but the ride was the distance. Lush green grass meadows and the canvas before us, it left us breathless adventure which awaited us. It was time ranches made up a small town whose with wonder. to venture onto Highway 12. We left the population enjoyed an unbelievable sept/OCT 2010 [28] sept/OCT 2010 [29] ecently I had the pleasure of meeting a gentleman named Andrew, and, as he calls it his, “Albino Vincent.” “Come out to a CVMG BBQ in Kawartha Lakes” he says, “Take the old Vincent out for a run.” His machine is actually a 1950 Vincent Series C Rapide, Rwhich has been in Andrew’s family since the mid-sixties. As a lot of Series C owners would have done, Andrew’s machine has been “Shadowized”, by way of installing bigger carbs, different cams and superior brakes. HRD Motors Ltd. was the brainchild of Royal Flying Corps (RFC) Pilot Howard Raymond Davies in 1924. Various models were produced, generally powered by JAP (JA Prestwich Industries) engines. By 1928, HRD, running at a loss went into liquidation and was bought out by Philip Vincent. The company was renamed Vincent HRD Co. Ltd. Production commenced in Stevenage, England, the new trademark sporting a very small ”Vincent” logo under a large HRD banner, so as to capitalize on the existing brand. By 1949 with export to the United States expanding, the HRD was dropped, to eliminate confusion with the HD in Harley-Davidson®. In 1948, the Series C was introduced, based, obviously on the 998cc V-Twin Series A of 1936, and the Series B of 1946, with modifications such as the use of Girdraulic front forks. The Vincent Black Shadow was basically a Series C with a blacked out engine and gearbox unit, story By Damien Eaton One man’s life astride a 1950 Vincent Series C Rapide… photos by Eric McBride

The “Albino Vincent” was Andrew’s Father had been an avid purchased in England by motorcyclist back in England years Andrew’s Uncle characterized before, and had as somewhat of a basket case. never owned a car.

sept/OCT 2010 [30] sept/OCT 2010 [31] large 150mph speedometer and the distribution. Wires were then run in much the same as a drum brake. The Unfortunately his Uncles and Father aforementioned modifications. The stainless steel tubes to the rear light single plate triggers the shoes which in have passed now, but the Vincent ties engine could produce 54HP at 5700 RPM assembly and headstock. turn fling out to grip the drum, which them together like few objects could in Black Shadow trim. His Uncles acquired a second Vincent, drives the gearbox. Idea being, the more ever do. On the morning of September 13th a 1955 Series D Shadow and rebuilt it torque applied, the harder the clutch Andrew recalls one of his most 1948, on the Bonneville Salt Flats of also, giving the brothers a matching grabs. Andrew still remembers his Dad memorable rides, when he took his first Utah, motorcycle racer Rolland (Rollie) pair. When one of the brothers passed and Uncle installing new corks in the real road trip on the “Vinny”. It was Free dressed in only a Speedo style away in 1969, arrangements were made clutch plate and then doing a burn out the CVMG Sarnia Section’s 1st Annual bathing suit, shower cap, and borrowed for his Vincent, the 1950, to be shipped with the front wheel of the Vincent rally. He loaded the camping gear on sneakers, set a new American land speed to Canada, for Andrew’s Father. In May against the house, to test it, Mum, must the bike and made the 400km trip. He record of 150.313 MPH (241.905 KM/H) of 1971, the “Albino Vincent”, arrived have loved that! met a guy on the 402 who was driving a on an HRD Vincent. There is dispute at the Port of Toronto and was swiftly Andrew still remembers his first Turbo Trans Am, they decided to get on to whether it was a Black Shadow, or uncrated and stowed away in the ride on the “Vinny” when he was 13 it a little, and Mr. Trans Am gave up at a modified Black Shadow, that later family shed. years old. It was one of those perfect roughly 125MPH. Andrew would have became known as The Black Lightning Andrew’s Father had been an warm summer days that never seem to really opened her up if it wasn’t raining (the fastest Vincent ever made). The avid motorcyclist back in England end, the kind only the young can truly at the time, but the amphibious and Black Lightning was a racing version of years before, and had never owned a appreciate. His Uncle and he rode to indestructible Vincent plowed onwards. the Black Shadow with all steel parts car. Once He had made the move to Fenlon Falls; Andrew recalls the peculiar When Andrew reached the being replaced by aluminum, and any Canada in December of 1956, it became shadow that the bike cast on the road, campground on Friday night, most were non-essential parts being removed immediately obvious that he needed a and how it seemed to fold up as the shocked to see an 18 year old kid riding altogether, shaving 75lbs plus off the car, thus ending his motorcycling days suspension ate up the bumps along the a Vincent. He met a guy named Terry bike. Legend has it that there were only for 20 years. way, being that the engine, is more or who showed a great deal of interest in 16-30 Black Lightning’s produced. A In 1977, The Vincent Owners Club less the frame. The lovely exhaust the Vincent. Andrew said, “take her picture of Rollie Free on his run at the held its World Rally in Shadow Lake note as the bike seemed to effortlessly for a ride.” Terry was shocked by being salt flats taken from a speeding car, (Coincidence? I think not, says Andrew!) plunk onward. offered to ride such a legendary bike, is said to be the world’s most famous that most could only dream of owning. motorcycle picture, and is referred to as In 1949, HRD was dropped to eliminate Terry did ride the bike, and after he “the bathing suit bike.” ® an Andrew tried several comparisons Rather than continue to suffer a loss, confussion with “HD” in Harley-Davidson . between the “Vinny” and Terry’s Kawi Phil Vincent announced that he would K1100, ending in all out speed runs, not compromise on quality to compete Enthusiastic club members shipped their That started a long list of Vincent, eventually leaving the Kawasaki in the with newer manufacturers, one week bikes from around the world, but not and other motorcycle events. His Uncle dust. But then again Andrew recalls, “I before Christmas 1955; the final machine Andrew’s frugal Uncle, no Sir!! A call returned the following year to attend never did get out of 3rd.” rolled off the assembly line, and was was placed to Andrew’s Dad to procure a Vincent rally, called the Hillbilly As mentioned before, Andrew aptly named “The Last.” the use of the “Albino Vincent”, to save Hoedown, in Georgia. His Dad had offered me a ride on the Vincent, an The “Albino Vincent” was purchased on those pesky shipping charges. always said, “If you can start it, you can opportunity, like his lifelong friend in England by Andrew’s Uncle In spring of 1977, Dad acquired his ride it.” That may sound easy enough, Terry, I could not refuse. characterized as somewhat of a basket Motorcycle license on a borrowed Honda but as Andrew remembers, it was quite Without getting to wordy, as this is case. The tank had a fresh coat of white XL175, as he had never ridden in Canada. a horror to kick over in those days, done not a ride/review article, I will say that paint at the time, and as Andrew admits, Old Whitey was dragged from the wrong; the “Vinny” would kick you back, as all vintage bikes do, the Vincent has his Uncle being rather frugal, simply family shed as Dad settled in for a time and hard! That was enough to put young its own eccentricities. She is a beautiful continued to paint the Vincent white to do some repairs and put her back in Andrew off till the age of 17. machine which I don’t think will ever instead of reverting back to its shape for the rally. Andrew remembers In the 80’s after a little fine tuning to be bested again, in our lifetime. Only original black. wondering “What is that? Where did it the ignition timing, thus, taming the the owner can ever start her first time It got a new lease on life back in come from?” The then teenager would “Albino Vincent”, Andrew was away, (laugh). It still handles fantastically on London, England as Andrew’s two have been a mere boy when the bike had singing, “just me and my shadow!” the uneven roads, and well not to put Uncles reassembled it. One Uncle, being arrived years earlier. (Cheese, that was uncalled for! Sorry too fine a point on it, she goes like a an Engineer set about to make some Battery acid had frozen and leaked all couldn’t resist!). Our hero remembers dragon with an arse full of bumble bees. improvements to the Vincent by way of over the fancy circuit board. The Clutch riding to college in downtown Toronto And as I’m sure Terry said, all those relocating the voltage regulator out of was another story altogether. Vincent and leaving it parked on the roadside, years ago, thank you Andrew and your sight under the battery tray, with all the had designed an unusual clutch called a no key, and no lock. Merely pull in the Dad and Uncles wherever they may be, bullet connectors attached to a printed servo clutch. It is merely a single plate decompression lever to kill the engine, for bringing a lifelong dream of mine to circuit board to handle the electrical that actuates on a set of clutch shoes, and walk away. fruition. sept/OCT 2010 [32] sept/OCT 2010 [33] ometimes things are not always as they appear? But almost always, the devil you know is better than the devil you don’t! When Suzuki realized it needed a Sports-Tourer the likes of Kawi’s Con- course, or BMW’s K1300GT, they decided to stay with the familiar. So was born the 2010 GSX1250SEA, incubated largely from the DNA of the trusty Bandit. The 1250SEA featured here and available in Canada, is currently not available in the United States. The U.S. model is the GSX1250FA, same model without the hard bags and top box. The FA model is also available in Canada, for those who don’t need the cargo space. The big difference on the 2010 model, from the previous, is the sportier, more aggressive look, with blacked out engine, stacked headlamps and full fairing. This year’s beef up seems to put the bike more in keeping with its Gixxer brothers, the GSXR600, 750 and 1000. From a bang for buck standpoint, I believe Suzuki has nailed it with the fuel injected 1255cc inline-four. It has the right balance of sporty and nimble handling, but with enough horses released by the power plant to make two-up From a bang for buck highway cruising a breeze. I took the machine on a long daytrip to Grand Bend, Ontario. Some friends standpoint, I believe and I left very early one Sunday morning, taking a lazy back road route there, and the more direct highway option Suzuki has nailed it back. Although, you can ride around all day very mild mannered, when necessary, or when feeling mischievous, with a twist of the throttle, the GSX morphs with the fuel injected into somewhat of a little devil. All told, I was on the GSX1250 for about 12 hours. I wouldn’t say the seat gave me all day Devil in a 1255cc inline-four. comfort, as the last few hours became somewhat tiring, but for an hour or two between stops, the seat and general setup of the bike was fantastic. There is Blue Dress… plenty of pull for passing on the highway and the removable side cases and Suzuki GSX1250AE Sports-Tourer top box fit an amazing amount of road swag. The seat height can be adjusted STORY BY DAMIEN EATON 20mm up or down, as can the suspension sept/OCPhotograT 2010 p[34hy] by Martin Besko - Azure Blue sept/OCT 2010 [35] for a more or less aggressive ride, or for an amazing Sports–Touring package two up comfort. with the GSX1250SEA; Performance, When riding the new Suzuki, you can handling, safety, fantastic and utilizable be rest assured that the chassis you sit looks at an affordable price. on is tried and true, as is the dependable Only question now is, where will you 1255cc inline four. From a safety stand- tour next? point ABS brakes are standard, along with discs front and rear. The Instru- ment display has digital speedometer CHASSIS: Brakes Front Disc brake, twin, ABS assisted* and analog tachometer, and even a gear Brakes Rear Disc brake, ABS assisted* selector and shift indicator, for those of Colour Black, Blue us losing our memories (grin). Curb Weight 257 kg Final Drive Chain When the touring is done you simply Fuel Tank Capacity 19 L spray off the road grime, unclip your Ground Clearance 135 mm Overall Length 2130 mm three hard bags, and you are ready for Seat Height 805/825 mm Low/High Suspension Front Telescopic, coil spring, oil damped some sport riding. You will notice that Suspension Rear Link type, coil spring, oil damped you have two separate keys for your lug- Tires Front 120/70ZR17M/C (58W), tubeless Tires Rear 180/55ZR17M/C (73W), tubeless gage. One for the top case and one for Transmission 6-speed constant mesh both the side cases, which is slightly in- Wheelbase 1485 mm convenient, but Suzuki assured me that ENGINE: they are working on replacement locks Bore Stroke 79.0 mm x 64.0 mm Compression Ratio 10.5 : 1 to integrate to one key. I also noted that Engine 1255 cc, 4-stroke, opening and closing the boxes can be a liquid-cooled, DOHC Fuel System Fuel injection little frustrating, but that most likely is Ignition Electronic ignition (Transistorized) the operator. The GSX also comes with a Lubrication Wet sump Starter Electric center stand for making chain maintenance far more convenient. WARRANTY: Warranty 12 Month unlimited mileage All told, Suzuki has managed to offer limited warranty sept/OCT 2010 [36] sept/OCT 2010 [37] course? Despite how much fun it looks A Weekend in the Life of a like we’re having, there’s actually a lot of work behind the scenes to make the course a success. Saturday starts early for the Motorcycle Instructor instructors. We arrive about a half-hour before the students do to wheel out all story by Gene Lee the motorcycles from the bin and line them up all nice and neat in a row. We take a mental picture of this, because the bikes will never ever be parked this ow do I like to spend my neat again all weekend... Then we sweep weekends? the parking lot for any debris that might I prefer standing around cause an accident during the day, such as in a parking lot caught standing water or sand. Other items like in the crossfire of broken beer bottles and used condoms hurtling motorcycles, piloted by folks are not uncommon, leftover from an whoH hours earlier could not tell you eventful Friday night. There are other the difference between a clutch and a unmentionables that we find on the lot choke. I like cultivating a tan that would on Saturday morning, but you’ll have to make a farmer envious, despite liberal join the Club of the Snazzy Fluorescent reapplications of 120 SPF sunscreen Safety Vest to find out for yourself. throughout the weekend. But most of Next, are the cones. We call them all, I like wearing a snazzy fluorescent cones, but really, they’re flat, plastic, safety vest that proclaims to the world: coloured discs that we lay down let the “I am a construction worker!” A bright, students know where to ride, stop and loud vest that makes me a conspicuous turn. The point of the coloured cones target to the aforementioned hurtling is to give the new riders something to motorcycles… avoid – in theory. But there is a reason I’ve interviewed a few of my fellow why our cones are now flat and not instructors for this article and asked coned-shaped anymore. I hate the cones. them why they teach. One co-worker There are a lot of them and they have tells me, “I’ve learned a lot over the to be laid down and picked up between years from people willing to share their each and every exercise. I think I’ve knowledge and I want to give back to thrown down and picked up over a the community”. Uh huh. I suspect million plastic discs in my life as an he’s probably a foreign aid worker for instructor. The cones invade my dreams the UN during the day, and he spends on Saturday night. In these dreams, I’m his evenings teaching blind kids how chasing down each and every one of to go. And nowhere is this as important megaphone-like volumes, capable of to play the piano. Personally, I teach them, as they’re run over and kicked as when they are in the port-a-potty, addressing students at the furthest end motorcycle riding for the cocktail party around by a horde of 125cc motorcycles, because while the students may leave us of the parking lot to remind them to stories. I could bore my own mother to but I can never pick up all of them. In my every Sunday afternoon, the instructors push (both pedals) and pull (both levers) tears talking about how the widgets my dreams, there are so many of them and do have to keep coming back every in order to avoid going any further down company makes are better than anyone only one of me... I hate the cones. weekend. the furthest end of the parking lot. else’s widgets. But tell people you teach Anyway, back to the course. As I’ve honed all my senses to become a Lunch is my favorite time of day motorcycle riding and that you do all Saturday progresses, we teach the high-performance instructing machine. because I get to ride the bikes around this wearing a snazzy fluorescent safety students the difference between a clutch Even from 100m away, my eagle eyes the closed course while the students vest? You’ll be the coolest person in the and a choke, and also how to point the will spot student’s fingers hovering are eating. I get so much joy in flinging room! Well, except for that other guy at bike away from people wearing snazzy over brake and clutch levers, instead of a small bike around a closed course, the party who actually does construction fluorescent safety vests. We remind firmly gripping handlebars. My sharply wringing all 12HP from a single-cylinder work. them to check the kickstand before tuned canine-like ears will recognize in every gear. My favorite bike isn’t Ever wondered what goes into putting they start their motorcycle. We also missed shifts and popped clutches. even a motorcycle. It’s a blue Yamaha C3 together a weekend motorcycle riding remind them to look where they want And my voice is capable of achieving scooter that goes 0 to 60 in... well, it goes sept/OCT 2010 [38] sept/OCT 2010 [39] 0 to 60. Lunch is also the time we get to some students do not stop very quickly, student and the instructor standing in know our students a bit better, and we nor do they swerve with very much front of the brake and swerve section. also get a chance to put a face to their confidence. During the exercise, it’s It’s a long couple of days, but every name written on a piece of tape on their the duty of one instructor to stand in course I teach yields countless tales of helmet. front of a student’s moving motorcycle triumph and tragedy, incredible highs By the end of the first day, we’ve and command them to stop or swerve and unimaginable lows, times of laughter taught the basics of motorcycle riding to in a chosen direction. Normally, this and tears, courage and cowardice. But the students. As they go home, basking instructor is chosen from all the other that’s just the instructors. The students in the knowledge of how to be smooth instructors in the group based on a pretty much have a good time the whole and progressive with their chokes and specific set of skills, namely the ability weekend. how to use their clutches when the to move out of the way quickly. Younger So that’s life as a motorcycle bike is cold (or something like that), instructors have less to lose in terms instructor. If you’re a rider looking to the instructors pick up cones, top up of possessions and dependants, and give back to the community, or you gas tanks and load all the bikes back being spryer than their older (and much want to teach life-saving skills to new in the bin. Instructors and students go wiser) counterparts, they are usually motorcyclists, or if you just want to be through very similar Saturday evenings: volunteered to this position. able to tell a cool story the next time dinner burning on the stove and a weary Sunday morning’s excitement is slowly someone asks you, “What do you do for a motorcycle rider asleep on the couch; replaced by dread, as time counts down living?”, then consider joining one of the Gord Martineau announcing the 6’o to the afternoon’s skills demonstration many riding schools in the area. clock news to no one in particular. session, otherwise known as the M1 ‘Cause you do get this really cool, Sunday is much more exciting than Exit Test. This apprehension quickly snazzy fluorescent safety vest… Saturday because it’s emergency skills dissipates when we explain each test websites day! It’s the day we teach the students section and the students realize they Weddings branding how to stop quickly and how to swerve have actually been practicing the entire Gene Lee plays dodgeball with with confidence. The reason why Sunday test for the last two days. After the test CBR125Rs at the Rider Training Institute Events marketing is so exciting is because in the beginning, is finished, relief settles in for both the www.ridertraining.ca. studio promotions portraits brochures sports direct mail

Toronto: 416-253-1730 Caledon: 905-533-0887 azureblue.ca

Setting the COURSE… A knowledgeable rider is a safe rider. Riding on public roads is a challenge.

Our job at RTI is to help you acknowledge understand & manage the risks associated with real trafﬁc situations. ridertraining.ca M2 and M licensing courses [email protected] Skill development 1.866.876.1551 Private lessons 11 locations in Ontario sept/OCT 2010 [40] sept/OCT 2010 [41] A couple of years ago when I heard t’s very easy for us to talk about how wonderful rumblings that Norton was going to a new motorcycle is, how re-launch in the UK, I was skeptical. it shines, power Royal Thunder Not wanting to get my hopes up at to weight ratios, accessories, ground clearance, seeing another great British marquee fuelI consumption, maximum torque, etc. come back from the dead, only to These are matters of science, be disappointed. matters of the mind, if you at the will? Specifications that once engineered can be dissected Well, the rumblings soon turned by those of us who choose to straddle what is little more than a to thunder, no, Royal Thunder… missile with brakes. So pour yourself a cup of tea, switch Not to put too fine a point on it, Gate these are facts, which once read, the tele over to Coronation Street, and regurgitated, and read again, can let’s get reacquainted with an old friend! be learned or taught and filed away within the little grey cells of the brain for further reference. Let’s be honest, although necessary for us to understand the mechanics of a particular machine, sometimes, most of us would sooner watch grass grow.

Originally founded in 1898, in Birmingham England as a manufacturer of fittings and parts for the growing two wheel industry, Norton would soon become known as ‘The Unapproachable Norton’ on the racing scene STORY by DAMIEN EATON and would remain one of history’s most legendary PHOTOgraphy by Martin Besko - Azure Blue marquees.

sept/OCT 2010 [42] sept/OCT 2010 [43] more races than any other. But by the early fifties, largely due to its racing What is perhaps far more difficult endeavourers the company was sold out to Associated Motorcycles (AMC). AMC then became insolvent in 1966 and was to explain are the things that reformed as Norton-Villiers. By 1973 it was again renamed to Norton-Villiers- Triumph. make us passionate about a machine, The Norton Commando was first launched in 1967, with a design history going back as far as the late 1940’s, when or operating that machine? the Model 7 twin was released. In its first skin, it was a 750cc, whose frame had But then again, who among us been isolated from engine and gearbox by way of special rubber mountings, designed to alleviate acute vibration could ever explain with any success, issues experienced on earlier models. The 850cc Commando was released in April of 1973, and by March of 1975, the matters of the heart? It’s Saturday August 14th, 2010, after is a man passionate about a motorcycle, MK3 Commando 850cc, sported electric being on the road since 4:30 a.m. atop and a family dedicated to helping him start. Specifications remained more a 500cc single cylinder thumper, I arrive make his company a success. or less the same until October of 1977, at Mosport International Raceway for Originally founded in 1898, in when production of the machine ceased. the Vintage Road Racers Association Birmingham England as a manufacturer In the 10 years the Commando was in (VRRA) races. I meet with other 2Ride of fittings and parts for the growing production, it was an incredibly popular personnel, who like me, had spent 12 two wheel industry, Norton would soon and well respected bike, winning the hours on the road the previous day, become known as ‘The Unapproachable MCN (Machine of the Year) award for doing the Friday the 13th run to Port Norton’ on the racing scene and would 5 straight years from 1968-1972. The Dover. Everyone’s a little groggy but remain one of history’s most legendary company changed hands a few more eager for the day’s events. We make marquees. times until it was repatriated in 2008 by our way to our booth location, next to In 1902, founder James Lansdowne UK Businessman Stuart Garner. Norton Motorcycles Canada. Norton, or Pa Norton as he was referred As you begin to look at the new 961 We get some coffee and I spot to, offered the first Norton motorbikes, Commando line up, consisting of the Peter Howes, the President of Norton powered by Swiss and French engines. ‘The Sport’ (featured in this article), Motorcycles Canada Ltd, coming out of his trailer with his adorable little Jack Russell Terrier, “Bingo”. The new, And as Peter Howes’ website says, Commando 961 Sport is already on its stand, gleaming in the morning sunlight, ‘Built with pride in the UK’ just as fantastic as I remember from seeing it at Norton’s uncrating ceremony in Newmarket, the previous Wednesday. In 1907, a Norton ridden by Rem Fowler The Café Racer, and the 961 SE, you We all sort of help each other get the won the twin cylinder class at the very can immediately see that the company booths set up for the day and chat about first ever Isle of Man TT race. So began has an eye for its illustrious history, the bike as we do so. an illustrious sporting tradition that saw but is firmly footed in its future. From Later in the day, between the crowd, Norton take wins 10 times between the a Canadian perspective, the company the noise and the exhaust fumes, I World Wars, and every year from 1947 to cannot go far wrong with a leader like remember looking over at Norton’s tent 1954 at the Isle of Man Senior TT. President Peter Howes and his dedicated and seeing Peter, along with his wife and By 1908, Norton was using their own partners, Vice President of Norton children, talking to people about the new engines, beginning with side valve Motorcycles Canada Ltd, Jim Brown, Sam model, and models yet to come. Showing singles and eventually the beloved twins. Agha – owner of Suzuki of Newmarket off their new line of T-shirts, ball caps Norton continued to win race after and a dedicated group of family and and so on. I remember thinking, there race; in fact, the marquee has won friends that continue to work tirelessly sept/OCT 2010 [44] sept/OCT 2010 [45] sept/OCT 2010 [46] sept/OCT 2010 [47] to make this happen. suggest in the neighborhood of $22k - its predecessors. The fuel injected Mr. Howes shows his passion and $30k, the top being the SE model which Sport brags 80HP, Brembo brakes, dedication to the Norton Marquee sports a Carbon Fiber package. front and rear, and Ohlins suspension every time you speak with him about The entire machine is handmade and at either end. the motorcycle and their vision for its tested at Norton’s facility in the heart Norton has a dedicated ensemble future in Canada. Taking a leaf out of of the legendary motorsport track, of engineers and craftsmen in the UK, Pa Norton’s book, Howes is embarking Donington Park, near Donington Castle, fronted by Stuart Garner, a man with on a dealer tour of Western Canada to Leicestershire, England. At present, only a definite vision of where he see’s promote the arrival of the one and only a maximum of 6 Commandos a day can Norton fitting in today’s world. We Sport model in North America, seen here be manufactured at the site, with an eye have Peter Howes and his tireless in 2Ride magazine. for detail and performance, over mass partners, supportive family and ‘Bingo” Norton Motorcycles Canada and production. So with those numbers, I chipping away at the preverbal stone its bikes are to be complemented by don’t think any of us can expect to see a here in Canada. Oh, and one beautiful a full range of vintage motorsport new Norton, every time we go for a ride. handmade bike! apparel in the near future, some of The Commando’s overall look in its which is available online now at www. classic racing livery of silver with black So I say, welcome back nortoncanada.ca. and red pin striping is breathtaking, Norton Motorcycles! According to Mr. Howes and his and although new and refined, it feels But let’s face it … partners, Norton is going for exclusivity. somehow strikingly familiar. Its 961cc, they never really went Pricing details for the Canadian market air cooled, Parallel twin, looks like art are not confirmed yet, but details work with just enough attention paid to away, did they?

engine Type Twin, four-stroke Displacement 961.00 ccm (58.64 cubic inches) Torque 90.00 Nm (9.2 kgf-m or 66.4 ft.lbs) @ 5200 RPM Bore and Stroke 88.0 x 79.0 mm (3.5 x 3.1 inches) Valves per cylinder: 2 Fuel system: Injection Ignition Crank Fired Cooling system: Air Gearbox 5-speed Final Drive Chain Clutch Wet multi-plate hydraulic lifter Exhaust System Euro 3 Starter Electric frame Type Steel tubular with integral oil tank. Swing arm: Twin-sided steel construction. Rake (fork angle) 24.5º Trail 99 mm (3.9 inches) suspension Front 43mm Ohlins RWU - Adjustable preload, compression damping Front Travel 115 mm (4.5 inches) Rear Ohlins reservoir-style twin shocks - Adjustable ride height, preload, compression Rear Travel 110 mm (4.3 inches) tyres Front 120/70-17 Rear 180/55-17 brakes Front Double disc. Brembo system, twin semi-floating hi carbon stainless steel discs, Brembo 4 piston “Gold Line” axial callipers Front Diameter 320 mm (12.6 inches) Rear Single disc. Brembo system, 2 piston “Gold Line” calliper Rear Diameter 220 mm (8.7 inches) measures & capacities Dry Weight 188.0 kg (414.5 pounds) Weight incl. oil, gas, etc: 203.0 kg (447.5 pounds) Power/weight ratio: 0.4255 HP/kg Seat Height 813 mm (32.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting Wheel Base 1,420 mm (55.9 inches) Fuel Capacity 17.03 litres (4.50 gallons) sept/OCT 2010 [48] sept/OCT 2010 [49] got into dirt biking reluctantly. My wife, Neda completed a 9-day off-road ride across Colorado for charity last year and was so enamored with riding the great Railing around outdoors that at the beginning of this Iseason she decided to get a Yamaha dirt bike. Not to be left behind in her berms is almost roost, I had to hastily pick up a “Dirty Bike” of my own. I’ve taken a couple of trail riding courses over the years: as fun as Canadian Motorcycle Training Services’ (CMTS) Horseshoe Riding Adventures at Horseshoe Valley, and most recently, I dragging a knee rode with TrailTours in the Ganaraska Forest. While it was quite humorous falling over and over again in the dirt around a corner. with my buddies on small rented Honda CR230Fs, for me it was more of a social event than a serious pastime. So when Neda declared that we were now to be a dirt biking couple, I knew that I had to do some research for a suitable ride given my current skill level and the type of riding we were going to do. First question: trails-only or dual- sport? A street legal dual-sport would probably be useful for riding to and from the trails without towing the bikes. 2009 However, the really good trails were well outside the 416, which meant that there would be a lot of wear on the tires and engine, especially on a smaller bike. And when you got to the trails, the additional weight of the dual sport meant that it KTM 250 would not be as nimble, especially on the single-tracks. I already have a street bike, so trailering a non-streetlegal dirtbike would be acceptable. This would work out well, as I could run some aggressive knobby tires without having to worry about stability and wear issues XCF-W on asphalt. Next question: 2-stroke or 4? The My first Dirty Bike traditionalist in me yearned to go smokin’ & screamin’ down the tracks. All the racers seem to zoom around on those light-weight, high-performance banshees. But the more I read up, I STORY BY Gene Lee realized that the 4-bangers, with their Photos by marco fernandes smooth and predictable power made more sense for the kind of woods riding we were going to do. I suppose sept/OCT 2010 [50] sept/OCT 2010 [51] I could always put on an aftermarket The KTM has a link-less rear suspension, guards, which provides a protective relish the blur of the Ganaraska forest pipe to compete in the Outdoor Decibel so lowering the bike is not as simple perimeter cage around the liquid-cooling (our usual stomping grounds) as I Olympics later on! as installing a lowering link, like on unit up front. Better safe and sorry, than whiz by at a breakneck 60 km/h – well So the last decision was which brand Neda’s WR250F. I opted not to touch just plain ole’ sorry… breakneck by 250cc standards! The to go with. This was a no-brainer for the rear shock in order to preserve Shorty levers come as standard which Orange Machine’s thumper engine is me, as I’ve always wanted some kind the suspension geometry as much as allows for great two-fingered control of very beginner-friendly, giving enough of KTM off-roader. I’m a sucker for possible. So by dropping the forks a clutch and front brakes. I found the rear smooth, tractable power even at low the “Win on Sunday, Sell on Monday” little through the cast triple clamp and pedal is mounted a bit too high and is revs, although steeper hill climbs need campaigns that most manufacturers replacing the firm and uncomfortable difficult to modulate with stiff motocross to be taken at speed or with a slipping run, and the Austrian builder seems to stock seat with a rock-hard and even boots on, but they are adjustable so I’ll clutch. Breaking traction to steer with claim top honors in almost every enduro more uncomfortable lowered seat, I was have to lower them for a future outing. the rear wheel provides never-ending and motocross race I’ve watched, not able to bring the height down to just Another nice feature is the built-in amusement and is easy to achieve with to mention the biggie: the Paris-Dakar under 37” unladen, without adversely electronic trip speedometer which also a liberal twist of the throttle. This is a Rally. KTM’s catalog of dirt bikes is very affecting handling. counts the mileage and hours the engine bike that will allow a new trail rider to extensive and quite confusing at the Thankfully, the 250 XCF-W comes has run. All of this to remind you that develop their skills, but still have enough same time. They’ve managed to cover with both a kick starter and an electric maintenance intervals come a lot faster reserve left to grow into and give the every segment (motocross, enduros, starter. Sorry, that should read: than Japanese dirt bikes, with the first intermediate dirt rider a very competent adventure bikes, etc), and engine size in Thankfully the 250 XCF-W comes with oil change at 3 hours, then minor service woods bike. increments of 25-50cc. Feel that a 250cc an electric starter. I’m not an old-school every 10 hours and major service every I may have begun playing in the dirt is too small for you? No problem, go for dirt biker. I didn’t walk 10 miles to dirt 30 hours. KTMs need more attention reluctantly, but I’ve really come to enjoy the 300cc! bike school every day in the snow, uphill than a new born infant! feeling the bike dance below me on loose The three bikes that come up most both ways. So I like pressing a button to But on the trails, you forget all about surfaces and catching the odd bit of air often in the entry-level trail riding start my bike instead of giving myself a race-like maintenance schedules, (many times inadvertently) over bumps segment are all 4-strokes: the Yamaha herniated disc while stomping on a kick uncomfortable seats and exposed and jumps. And railing around berms is WR250F, Honda’s CR250X and KTM’s start lever. I can do it, I just don’t like it! pipes melting your right boot. Dirt almost as fun as dragging a knee around 250 XCF-W. KTM’s naming convention In stock trim, the Katoom (actually, bike riding is so involving and physical a corner. Almost… is as follows: XC is the Cross-Country I should call it the Katim) comes that there isn’t really anything else designation, F stands for Four-Stroke, quite well-equipped. The bike sits to do but focus on the trail and take All thanks to my beautiful Orange Crush! and W is for the wide-ratio gearing that atop 21”/18” black Excel rims, known in the scenery around it. I absolutely will push the bike’s top speed higher in for their light weight, strength and the over-drive gears for blasting down durability, and stopping power is Engine...... 248.6cc single cylinder, 4-stroke, open fields. The 250 XCF-W is priced for provided by double-piston Brembo 76 x 54.8 mm bore x stroke, your pleasure at $8749 CDN. calipers that clamp on to ventilated 12.8:1 compression ratio If you’re going to ride a KTM, you’re wave rotors. Nice! WP forks and rear Starter/Battery...... Kickstarter/E-Starter / 4 Ah going to have to have an orange crush, suspension soak up any irregularities the Transmission...... 6 gears because almost all of their off-road trail can throw at you while providing Carburetor...... Keihin FCR-MX 39 models look like they’ve been broadsided excellent feedback and handling. A Cooling...... Liquid cooled by a truck carrying Florida citrus fruit. nice feature I like is a little rubber strap Clutch...... Wet multi-disc clutch, operated hydraulically The 250 XCF-W is no exception, with a under the left side of the tail that can tie Front suspension...... WP USD Ø 48 mm plenitude of body panels, beak and fork the kickstand up and out of the way, so it Rear suspension...... WP monoshock PDS guards clad in orange. It’s very light at doesn’t accidentally bounce down when Suspension travel front/rear...... 300/335 mm a dry weight of 223 lbs, which translates surfing the stutters or wailing down the Front brake...... 260 mm disc, Brembo double piston caliper to nimbleness on tight trails, and it also whoops. Strange that a skid guard and Rear brake...... 220 mm disc, Brembo single piston caliper requires very little effort to pick up from front pipe guard don’t come as standard Rims, front/rear...... 1.60 x 21”; 2.15 x 18” Excel a drop. This might happen a few times equipment. I opted to get a quick-release Tires, front/rear...... 80/100-21”; 100/100-18” if your inseam is considerably less than plastic skid plate that lets me clean out Steering head angle...... 63.5° the stock 39” seat height. I’m used to the underside with just a quarter-twist Trail...... Adjustable riding tall bikes, and although the WP of a Dzus fastener and a nice E-Line Wheel base...... 1475±10 mm rear shock does sink quite a bit when carbon fiber pipe guard stops the inside Ground clearance (unloaded)...... 380 mm you’re on the bike, I’ve still had to do of my right boot from melting onto the Seat height...... 985 mm something about the height so I could front pipe. Because my favorite phrase Tank capacity...... approx. 9.2 liters at least put one foot down with the bike in the woods is: “Watch this!!!”, I also Weight (no fuel)...... approx. 101.6 kg not leaning over on a precarious angle. volunteered for the optional radiator sept/OCT 2010 [52] sept/OCT 2010 [53] AJAX

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We have the Dirt on Alex stORY BY luCY

rom the age of 4 years Raceway, is a short track where alex old, alex Olsen has has won many times. all good racers been “riding” in his will tell you that practice makes dad’s footsteps by dirt perfect, and we often fi nd Alex at bike riding and racing either the 3 sisters, the Ponderosa, motorcycles. Alex’s fi rst bike was a or erin Moto Crossing practicing. suzukiF JR50. alex competes in the 14 to 26 age today he not only continues to category mainly racing his custom reach the winners circle under the built 600 ROtaX dirt track chassis, sponsorship of Brian Olsen Racing, or his CRF 450 Honda motocross but he also builds his own custom engine in a custom dirt track chassis. fl at trackers and motocross bikes. Being able to customize his own One of alex’s favorite tracks is motorcycles, has enabled alex to niagara Motorcycle Raceway in cultivate a passion to be Canada’s top Welland Ontario. niagara Motorcycle custom race bike builder. sept/OCt 2010 [54] sept/OCt 2010 [55] 2010 Hyosung M3-250 speedy vehicles that send strong gusts of air in your direction. Don’t get too alarmed, though, because this ride on a 120/70-13 front tire and a 140/60-14 rear tire still offers stability and great handling thanks in part to the conventional telescopic front and hydraulic double shock absorber rear suspension. Need a stretch without pulling over? They’re got you covered, with footrests that allow you to stretch those legs forward. The stylishly modern 2010 model is available in silver, black, or blue and is priced alongside its competitors at about $4,995. It has a uniquely shaped comfortable seat for both the driver and passenger, as both have short backrests. Look under that comfy seat and you’ve got space for your full-size helmet and a few other And This Month’s Scooter Pick Is… small items. The dash consists STORY BY Veronica Ramos Carrasco of a wide LCD display with the speedometer and tachometer on opposite ends and a digital screen in the center for additional essentials (clock, odometer, trip hoa! With the increasing better known as Hyosung) has been researching, meter, fuel and water gauges). number of modern scooters of developing, and mass producing its own designs Below that there is a glove box various models and makes, it since around 1987, following years of building containing a handy cigar lighter may be dizzying to truly find Suzuki designs under license in South Korea receptacle to power or charge one that stands out among the beginning in 1979. The sporty 2010 M3-250 from your electronics. rest. Prices and specifications are widely similar, and company is yet another scooter on the market A two year factory warranty, Wscooters of today do not vary as much in appearance displaying dependability and performance. with unlimited kilometers, is as their predecessors once did. A soon-to-be buyer Weighing in at a light 341 pounds and containing standard on all motorcycles and is most inclined to go with a popular name and a liquid-cooled fuel-injected 249cc 4-valve single scooters. Take one out for a test trust it indefinitely. We already know that scooters cylinder DOHC engine, this ride proudly offers 25hp spin and see if the 2010 MS-3 250 can provide a useful alternative to the standard at 8500 RPM. It would be important to mention that is the right fit and has the right motorcycle when looking to reduce insurance rates although the scooter is marketed as ready to take on feel for your tastes. and fuel costs. the highway, its manageable weight could possibly S&T Motors (the South Korean company stir up some trouble while riding beside large sept/OCT 2010 [56] sept/OCT 2010 [57] What are you thinking? by Sid Rochwerg

We’ve all heard how most accidents attire upon arrival. happen close to home. It’s been written Is it really safe or smart to ride to work that 1/3 of all accidents occur within a every day? kilometer of your home. If you think If I rode to work all the time, riding about it, it’s not surprising since you would no longer be special. And if it’s would travel on your own street and not special then it is routine. And if it neighborhood more than any other. is routine then I am not as focused on As I reflected on this common statistic my riding as I should be. When on my we start to focus on the problems it really led me to the subject of this motorcycle would I be thinking about at work or at home the anxiety will article. What are you thinking about work, rushing to a meeting, reviewing change our behavior immediately. when riding? When you get closer to in my head the strategy for a critical You might find yourself hurrying home what are your thoughts? I find situation? When riding back home home or becoming a participant in when I get close to home my mind sees would I be rushing? Would I be thinking road rage. I appreciate that some may Not an Accident myself already walking in the door, about that last hallway conversation have purchased a motorcycle not for story by Shaun De Jager- Founder of Road Awareness planning what I’m going to do next, rather than focusing on my riding? recreation but for basic transportation or perhaps both. And I’m really not Photograph Courtesy of Tim Burrows heading to the computer to check email. Every time I ride my motorcycle is Wait…I’m still on my motorcycle, I’m special. It’s exactly where I want to be at suggesting that you don’t ride everyday not home yet! I still need to be focused that moment in time. I want my riding to if given the opportunity. What I am his was no accident and nor is our dangerous roadways. it altogether. on my riding and watching out for other have my full attention and respect. This saying is to check where your head is at. any collision on our roadways. So what’s wrong with the term ‘ac- “The guy ran a red light and T-Boned drivers and hazards along my path. kind of concentration is not always easy. When you hit that starter button and get me!” Sure…ok…but you were making a It’s time people start calling cident’? We’ve been calling it that for What are you thinking about when With our complicated lives distractions the thrill of the motor firing up, make things what they really are. This decade’s right? Yes we have but it’s the left hand turn, so it’s your responsibil- you’re riding? What are your thoughts are everywhere. So, to ride safely we sure you’ve parked your distractions was a ‘crash’ or a ‘collision’. Not an ac- wrong term to use because every crash on ity to ensure that you can make that turn T focused on when you’re riding? Are must minimize the distractions so we away. So, just figuratively roll them into cident. What’s the difference you ask? An our roads is in fact avoidable and there is safely. It’s not the red light that stops a a ball and put them in your knap sack ‘Accident’ is something that is unavoidable always someone responsible for it. Crashes car at an intersection; it’s the driver of you thinking about the road ahead, the can stay focused on what we are doing. or saddle bag before riding away. When and unforeseen. Collisions or crashes ARE as a result of Drinking and Driving are the car approaching it. You are assuming driver turning left with the sun in their Should a heavy equipment operator you get home you can take them out predictable and therefore avoidable. avoidable. Crashes that are a result of that other driver is paying attention to the eyes, the right turn with the obstructed be distracted? How about a lone pilot When we go out on our roads, there careless or distracted driving are avoid- lights. You are ultimately responsible for view, the kids kicking the ball on the or explosives expert? I hope you get again and deal with them. is always a chance of being involved in able. Even crashes that occur because of what happens to you on our roads. If that lawn? the idea. Distractions are great when I once attended a seminar where, at a crash. Lets face it…it happens several mechanical failures are avoidable (check car approaching the red light isn’t slowing Do you ride to work every day when you’re bored. They’re deadly when the start, they had everyone write down times a day. Although…if they happen your tire pressures, brakes, etc. basically down fast enough…assume that he won’t the weather permits? For office workers you’re performing a task that needs your on a piece of paper what was currently everyday, they are predictable. So how make sure that your vehicle is mechanic- stop at all. If you don’t have a clear view of business casual dress and jeans days on undivided attention. on their minds and perhaps distracting do you avoid them? Well for starters pay ally sound and your wheels won’t fall off). on-coming traffic…don’t risk making that Fridays or over the summer has made The most dangerous distraction, them. Then we were asked to fold up My biggest issue with the term ‘accident’ turn until you do. attention to your surroundings and road it easier to ride to work in proper safer however, is you. Letting your mind the paper and tape it on a flip chart at conditions. By keeping a careful watch on is that it seems to absolve a person’s sense This is just one example but I could go clothing without the hassle of changing wander creates the distraction. When the front of the room within a diagram the vehicles around you, you are more able of accountability for what happened – even on and on with other situations that could to spot certain behaviours that may lead to when deemed at fault. A fellow tells his result in a collision and how to avoid them (cont’d) trouble. It only takes one person to not pay friend “Oh I had an accident yesterday” just by paying more attention and mak- attention to create the conditions for a col- and his friend replies “It’s ok…it was an ing alternate assumptions. If I can – so can lision. However, it only takes one person accident. You couldn’t avoid it. It hap- you. Therefore crashes on our roads are who is paying attention to recognise those pens so don’t worry about it.” This is such NOT accidents – they are avoidable. There What are you doing this weekend? developing conditions and avoid them en- a poor attitude to take. Yes you probably is almost always a shared responsibility tirely. It’s a simple thing called ‘Situational could have avoided it had you paid more for what happens regardless of who is Try M2 and M licence training with free STREET PROOFING! Awareness’ but it’s something that is sorely attention to your surroundings. Why are found at fault by either the police or your lacking on our roads - especially among car collisions acceptable? They shouldn’t be insurance company. drivers. The most attentive road users are acceptable at all but we blow them off If you want to reduce your chance of motorcyclists and professional truck driv- because we call them accidents – it was being in a ‘collision’, pay more attention to ers. Both know full well that they must be unavoidable. I didn’t do anything wrong! your surroundings and road conditions and well aware of everything going on around Maybe…but there’s always more that you get some advanced driver training. Those them and plan well ahead while navigating could have done ‘right’ to have avoided added skills could save your life. Toronto • Seneca College • Windsor • North Bay • Sudbury • College Boreal • Timmins Kirkland Lake • Northern College • Pembroke • Algonquin College • Kapuskasing • Sarnia sept/OCT 2010 [58] New Liskeard • Arnprior www.learningcurves.ca 1.877.466.9931sept/OCT 2010 or 416.466.9931 [59] 2010 Track Days 2010 Superbike Schedule World Championship September 2010 WSBK 1. september 5 Germany Nürburgring 1st - Riders Choice – SMP Fabi Report 2nd – Riders Choice – SMP Long 2. september 26 Italy Imola Report 3rd - RACE – SMP Long 3. October 3 France Magny-Cours 3rd - Turn2 – Calabogia Report 4th - RACE – SMP Long 4th - Turn2 – Calabogia 4th – TMP – Cayuga 5th - RACE – SMP Long 2010 AMA Pro 5th - Turn2 – Calabogia American Superbike 5th - TMP – Cayuga 6th – GPBikes – Mosport RDT October 2010 Championship 6th - TMP – Cayuga 1st - Pro6 Cycle – Calabogia 1. new Jersey Motorsports Park 7th - FAST School – SMP 2nd - Pro6 Cycle – Calabogia september 3–5 8th - FAST School – SMP 2nd – SMP Trackdays – SMP Long 2. Barber Motorsports Park 9th - TMP – Cayuga 3rd - Pro6 Cycle – Calabogia september 24–26 10th - SOAR – TMP Cayuga 9th - TMP- Cayuga 11th - SOAR – TMP Cayuga 10th - TMP- Cayuga 11th – VRRA – North Bay 11th - TMP- Cayuga SOAR 12th - SOAR – TMP Cayuga 15th - SOAR – TMP Cayuga 2010 SCHEDULE 12th– VRRA – North Bay 16th - SOAR – TMP Cayuga 17th – Pro6 – Calabogia 17th - SOAR – TMP Cayuga ROUND FIVE of a parking lot. We were then told our maybe all those electronic gadgets on the sidewalk while someone slams on 18th - Pro6 – Calabogia September 10-12 thoughts were now safely parked, and don’t belong on a motorcycle!) So I was the breaks in front of you, luckily your 18th - Riders Choice – SMP Long November 2010 Sprint w/Endurance we can forget about them. When the concerned that all this concentration bike had ABS. Luck has saved me a few 19th - Pro6 – Calabogia 7th - TMP- Cayuga class was over we could pick them up on was going to ruin my enjoyment of times, but hopefully in the future I will 19th - Riders Choice – SMP Nelson ROUND SIX our way out. riding and make it an exhaustive task. stay focused, and forget about relying on 20th – Pro6 Cycle – Calabogia 2010 MotoGP October 15-17 Although riding gives us freedom and But the exact opposite was true. When luck. 24th – RACE – SMP Pro Schedule allows us to escape from the day-to- my mind is so focused on riding I’m So, ride your motorcycle every chance 25th – RACE – SMP Pro Sprint w/Endurance 1. september 5 San Marino Grand Prix day world, we can’t take that literally. never more alive. My senses are as sharp you get, even to work. But remember, 25th - TMP- Cayuga Misano World Circuit When riding we can’t shrink into our as those of an animal stalking its’ prey. when you’re in the saddle your riding 26th - RACE – SMP Pro 2. september 19 Aragon Grand Prix own little world and escape. We have to If you find you are not focused on deserves and demands your undivided 27th – Pro6 Cycle – SMP Nelson Ciudad del Motor de Aragón do exactly the opposite and make sure riding one day it doesn’t mean that an attention and respect. Isn’t that what 30th - Riders Choice – SMP Long 3. October 10 Malaysian Grand Prix everyone knows we are part of his or accident will occur. It usually takes an makes it so rewarding, enjoyable and 30th – TMP- Cayuga sepang International Circuit her world and we require some space. error to create a collision. You may even just plain fun anyway? 4. October 17 Australian Grand Prix You’ve heard it many, many times. We get lucky, like crossing the centre line on Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit must ride as if we are invisible. This is a curve and find that no traffic is coming Ride Safe! 5. October 31 Portuguese Grand Prix not a suggestion! We are always invisible the other way. Or passing without Sid Rochwerg is a retired Canada Safety Council autódromo do Estoril to other motorists and to think anything enough space, but a car slows to let you Chief Motorcycle Instructor with over 35 years 6. November 7 Valencian Grand Prix less is extremely dangerous or possibly in. Glancing at some beautiful distraction riding experience. Circuit Ricardo Tormo deadly. When I first started riding I remember thinking, “How can I enjoy riding if I have to think that every car is going to run me over? How can I enjoy riding if I have to think about lane position, road surface, obstacles, weather conditions, moving vehicles, dogs, playing kids, lean angle, counter steering etc?” (Hmmm, sept/OCT 2010 [60] sept/OCT 2010 [61] motorsports in one way or another. I 2Ride: Where would you like to be in 2Ride: You’re favourite track and why? apprenticed as a mechanic, competed 5 years? Simon: Calabogie, it’s wide, smooth Up Close and Personal, in demolition derbies, got hooked on Simon: Frankly, I haven’t thought that and technical snowmobiles. I had been track riding for far ahead. (an Interview with) a while and decided it would be fun to 2Ride: Favourite turn and on what start racing. 2Ride: Favourite modification on your track? bike/s? Simon: That’s a toss-up between turn 2Ride: What drives this passion Simon: My favorite is the Bazzaz unit. six and eight at Calabogie. Turn six you for racing? I’m a technology geek and love playing accelerate blindly out of until you crest Simon: I love everything about it. The with the fuel management set-up. the hill and turn eight is a decreasing Simon Baker speed, the competition and especially radius turn that feels fantastic when you the friends I’ve made through racing. 2Ride: Do you have any quirks that get it right. story by Alex Collins might seem strange to anyone? 2Ride: Funniest moment on the track/ Simon: I don’t watch television. I don’t 2Ride: Most memorable moment? at a race? know anything about American Idol, or Simon: The hospital in Arnprior. I Simon: Most recent that comes to mind who dances with whom. I don’t keep up had an unscheduled dismount and current SOAR contender (www. Favourite thing about Canada: 2Ride: Simon you are 39, and you have is trying to get the Pirelli rep’s son to with that sort of thing. the bike following me didn’t have a soaracing.ca), he is happiest I’m always in awe of the diversity and been racing for 2 years, lets go back to wear a Dunlop hat while accepting an I do enjoy a couple of television series chance to avoid running over my legs. doing his thing away from the amount of nature in Canada. Mountains, the start and tell me where it all began. award because his hair was messy. If that I have on DVD such as Doctor Who. The whole episode at the hospital was politicsA of the race industry. For 2Ride oceans, forests and the very distinct Simon: Well about 40 years ago my Dad looks could kill, you would have thought funny in retrospect; wandering around he is the perfect example of the every seasons, it’s amazing. had a certain twinkle in his eye … I offered him a dead skunk to wear on his 2Ride: When you’re not at the races, the hospital (those gowns are chilly!), day racer in all of us. Day job: Information Security Oh, not that far back? head! what is your favourite thing to do on a my buddy commenting on how much I started riding motorcycles when I Friday night? Percocet is in demand in front of the Age: 39 Sponsors: turned 16. My mother wouldn’t allow 2Ride: Most embarrassing moment on Simon: It’s difficult to pick one thing … doctor … I blame him for the Doctor not Location: Mississauga, Ontario Pro6 Cycle me to have a bike because ‘they’re too the track/at a race? stay home and watch a movie. prescribing any pain killers. I think they Hometown: Newmarket, UK Altered Image Graphix dangerous’. The summer I turned 16, I Simon: Stalling and then honking to were really glad when I was discharged. Current race bike: 07 GSXR 600 Armour Bodies brought one home. It didn’t make for horn on a bike that wasn’t mine. Not 2Ride: Who is the person you are most The Halton Compass pleasant family dinners. only did I stall the bike, which at a interested in racing with this year, who 2Ride: What sort of things do you drink Rider’s Choice Since then, I’ve been involved in 1000cc is tough, when I went to restart is going to push you? at the track to stay hydrated? it I honked the horn as if to call out to Simon: I’m aiming for anyone that’s in Simon: Water and Diet Ginger ale. everyone – hey look at me … I’m an idiot. front of me! I had an accident last year in turn 1 at 2Ride: And for the ladies of course, I am 2Ride: If you could change one moment TMP and I’m not carrying the entry sure they want to know just what exactly in your career what would that be? speed I should be or am capable of you wear under the leathers? Simon: Starting earlier, I’m glad I didn’t because of it. I need to work on that Simon: If anyone wants to know they start in my twenties (or earlier) because this year. I pulled some seriously decent can help me out of my leathers. I didn’t have the common sense back times at Calabogie a couple of weeks ago then and I wouldn’t be around today. and was strongest in corner entry speed, I do wish I had started about ten years I’m going to try to take this confidence ago; I’d have more experience, and use it at TMP. smoother, quicker. I think with the increased corner entry speed I’ll be battling the front 2Ride: How many classes do you race in consistently in upcoming rounds. and what is the draw to each class? Simon: This year I’m racing in Old 2Ride: What sort of advice can you Boys and the Pro6 Dunlop Challenge as a offer to anyone interested in starting up regular entry. I’ll probably participate in at the track/racing? 600 extreme and a couple other classes Simon: Do it! If you want to see what throughout the year. The grid sizes your bike is truly capable of then try can vary drastically, anywhere from a track riding. dozen to three dozen bikes can be on the starting grid. sept/OCT 2010 [62] sept/OCT 2010 [63] top physical condition. Considering all Canadian Road Racer. There were many that produced a lot of smiles, laughter, the body shapes and types at the track, fireworks the previous night for Steve. and created strong bonds between the I never really believed that, until I ran May he rest in peace. participating riders and SOAR staff. that endurance race. You can tell you’re The pit bike race was limited to After all the laid back fun and laughter getting fatigued when it starts to feel 50cc 2 stroke, or 110cc 4 stroke bikes. of the pit bike challenge, it was time for like work. You become lazy and you Naturally, anything and everything my final race. Multiple classes were on don’t down/up shift when you should. showed up. Pit bikes, dirt bikes, pocket the grid. I looked for my nemesis and You roll off the throttle sooner, brake bikes, scooters, and even a segway waited for the flag. Off we went down sooner, and generally start slowing showed up. I was already illegal with my into turn one. A great start put me into down. I became tired, and signaled to the YSR80. Naturally there was the scantily third. I set myself up for a good line team that I’d be pitting in five laps, I felt clad umbrella girl, along with a thong through turn one, only to have another that another five laps would be easy to wearing umbrella boy. rider dive bomb on the inside. I held get through. Not so. Those last laps felt The pit bike race was a six lap race what was left of that good line and like an eternity. About an hour later, I that gave points based on final position. chased that rider through the turn, only was back out on the track in my groove However, there were bonus points for to witness his rear end get loose and with my head down. the oldest bike, oldest rider, biggest slide. My front wheel was on the outside After the endurance race, I still had rider, youngest rider, and best costume. of his rear wheel and this caused me to another qualifying race to run. What’s The crowd was thoroughly entertained get pushed to the outside of turn one another six laps…? As tired as I was, I by the costumes alone. A rider sporting into all the debris that gets blown off the ran the race. Still in the groove from the a pink bra and thong over his leathers race line. I was forced to watch while the endurance race, I felt rather competitive. showed up on the grid, alongside an rest of the pack freight-trained on by. I The grid was small so I wasn’t too Arab, and a smiley face Rastafarian who was at the point where I had to decide concerned with how I placed. won best costume. Hope he enjoyed his whether to ditch the bike, or grab some The next morning, my race was the six pack of Coors Light. brake and lose the pack completely. But first race of the day. Unlike yesterday, The flag dropped and it was like after what felt like an eternity (if not I had to get in the mindset a second), his rear wheel to race. It was a large grid finally hooked up, and we as the flag dropped and we were back chasing the pack. were off. The competition I finished a position back SOAR - Extreme, Endurance, was tough. A friend and I from where I started due to battled it out until my bike this incident. After the race became squirrelly out of turn I asked the rider what he and an Umbrella Boy? three. A quick hiccup then thought of his tires. I was story by Paul Rosemond Photos by John Reed it was back to racing. That amazed to learn that he was same lap, as I exited turn fully aware of his bad tires, nine on the throttle, the rear but thought it was fine to fter missing round two due feel competitive early that morning but I on and start without assistance, before began to let go, this time take his line and risk others. to a brief hiatus of business managed to finish mid-pack. riding away. a little more violent than Oh but wait, that’s racing, travel, I was back at SOAR I was asked to sub in for an injured I didn’t start the SOAR Le Mans race, the first mishap. My mind right…..? for round three. I was rider for the endurance race. I’ve never but I did try the start in my own pit. left the race and I began to I’d like to extend a special anxious to race again, but run an endurance race before. My I nearly knocked over my own bike, wonder if I could remain thank you to Ken McAdam, felt like I hadn’t ridden a motorcycle in biggest concerns were; being able to run something I should’ve thought about, competitive for the remaining laps watching bumper to bumper traffic with Tracey McMillan, and the SOAR staff for Ayears. After my usual ritual of stalking a number of laps (much longer than a being an ex-sprinter. I was one of three considering I had run this tire for two only one lane moving. I took off to the running a great event that weekend with the Weather Network, all that was left race, and the average 20 minute track riders on this particular endurance team. race rounds. I continued to run as hard front of the pack, only to have a 36cc a special tip of the hat for the Pit Bike to do was to get to the track, setup, and day session), not getting bored, and After spending five cautious laps getting as the rear tire would allow in hopes of Polini pocket bike go screaming past me. Race. then race. most of all, not crashing someone else’s use to the bike, the race was really on. obtaining points, but ended up losing That really put the power to weight ratio I was nervous to run the first qualifier race bike. The Le Mans style start is Lap after lap I fell into a rhythmic groove position. I finished the race just back into perspective! The fun race saw the of the day. Never mind the practice interesting and fun. Participating bikes which set my pace...somewhere in from where I started. majority of the bikes stay on the track, I’d also like to thank my sponsors for Lunch time rolled around and but the dirt bikes took a short cut back session, but there’s something about are lined up along the front straight. between the fast paced beat of electronic their support this race season. Armour wanting to see other riders out on the The riders stand alongside the pit wall music to the Eagles – Take it Easy. I anticipation was high for the first ever onto the front straight. A pocket bike “pit bike” race. This race was called and a scooter ran out of gas, the segway Bodies, Pro 6 Cycle, The Bike Lawyer, track at speed first to be reassured the opposite to their bikes. When the flag remember hearing someone mention 2Ride Magazine, YSRforums.ca, and track is safe. The 600 Extreme qualifier drops to signify the start, the riders run that motorcycle racers (or any racer the Steve Shreeve Speed Challenge in crashed, and there was havoc/UFC at the AirCom (aircomheatandcool.ca). went off without a hitch. It was tough to across the track to their bikes, jump regardless of the vehicle); have to be in honour of the late #469, a long time snack table. All in all, it was great fun sept/OCT 2010 [64] sept/OCT 2010 [65] upcoming events I Am Not Just a Wife of a Rider, I Am a Rider. Saturday Sept 18th, 2010 Sunday September 19, 2010 story by Shawna Akerman Photo by Kevin Rosenthall Kelly’s Ride Dice Run Windsor, Ontario hen I look in the mirror many each position and provided feedback to help GPBikes 2010 Ride for MS Poker Run words come to mind; wife, mother one another. Each journey was a learning daughter, friend teacher, fit, experience and a friendship builder. We can 156 Harwood Avenue S, Ajax ON Sponsored by Dominion Golf Restaurant, Lone Wolf Clubhouse, andW active, I never would have imagined now confidently ride among the seasoned 9:00am Registration and Chrome Divas, the ride starts at 6125 Howard Ave in Wind- Rider as part of the list. My journey began men (our husbands) with self-assurance. Resources for Exceptional Children & Youth sor. Registration starts at 9:00 am for 11:00 am departure. The as I watched my husband, Monty pull out Riding a motorcycle enabled a discovery Great Prizes, Great Food An Amazing Cause for more info 905- ride fee is $20.00 for each rider and $15.00 for each passenger. of the garage and my heart fluttered with of self I didn’t know existed. I embrace the 428-8983 gpbikes.com The fee includes a served dinner after the ride. The ride ends excitement at the sound of the engine. solitude, silence and smoothness of the with 50/50 draw, prizes, and much more. The ride will benefit A twinge of envy arose. He had found a open road. The idea that I am one with remarkable group of individuals and routine my thoughts and the cell phone ceases to the Windsor-Essex Chapter of the MS Society of Canada. rides. exist. The fact that I could be in a group For more information call (519) 798-3858 or visit http://www. Sunday September 19, 2010 My interest began as I sat on the back and not have to talk was excitement in its lonewolfclubhouse.com/ride-for-ms.php enjoying the wind, scenery and peaceful own. How often is it acceptable to be with Vintage Bike BBQ serenity of the ride. The relaxation was short people without actually having to make lived as my curiosity peaked. I had never conversation? With each excursion, outing Pegasus Bar & Grill ridden before. My questions were abundant; I or short jaunt the friendships formed among wanted to know how much to lean on a turn, bike with pride, smiling as we whizzed by my fellow riders was like nothing I had ever 3466 Dundas st W, Toronto how to balance so much weight, how to back cars or stopped at lights but on my own bike experienced before. The bond of the biker is 12:00pm – 6:00pm into a spot? I watched every move Monty I exude pride. A smile extends from ear to like no other. ear, my body is relaxed and the leather does Calling all Vintage bikes and non, to come out and enjoy an made, mimicking him as he rode. As spring emerged a new season begun and Saturday October 9, 2010 justice for almost anyone. afternoon of the ‘Oldies but Goodies’ and help support a non That curiosity teamed with the with it a mixture of nerves and excitement encouragement of the other female riders My fellow riders embraced me and erupted when the bike emerged from its profit animal Rescue Group Harley-Davidson of Toronto in our riding group and the fact that I had encouraged my every move, satisfying my winter slumber. My mind was overcome with Raffles, give aways, door prizes , vendors... Demo Day been begging Monty to find a mutual hobby curiosity about motorcycle parts, answering images of riding. I lay awake wondering if Vintage Bikes show n shine for years lead me to sign up for the Humber all my questions about formation in a group, I would I remember how to change gears, Dee Jay listening patiently to my commentary of 1325 Lawrence Avenue East course. balance the bike, ride at all and the greatest Proceeds to A.A.R.G. Animal Awareness and Rescue Group each ride and complimenting my skills. Toronto, ON First I had to pass the written, the fear of all, could I make it through the first special guests for question and answers on pet related issues motorcycle section was a breeze but a second I thoroughly enjoyed every outing and few weeks without dropping the bike? 9am- 3pm first aid demo round was necessary for the G2 part, so much counted the days till we rode again as I still I had to take the first step, I hesitantly has changed since I took the test 20 years lacked the confidence to ride alone. geared up, got on and Monty led me around ago. With bravery and a fluttering stomach I My first unaccompanied venture was to the block (a few times). Remembering when began my journey. The weekend was brutal, the grocery store. I couldn’t decide where to change the gears was difficult; neutral cold, rainy and I had never driven standard to park so I turned around and went home. did not want to be found and the bike was before but by the end of the first day I was Parking seemed to be my only demon. I heavier that I remembered. My second hooked. With much anticipation and a bit was very unsure of my ability to back the season has began and riding is all I think Supplying high quality products to riders of nerves I powered through Sunday and bike in and out of a spot. Nothing was more about. I have become a weather junkie. The emerged with a M2 license. embarrassing then thinking you are a cool constant fear of rain still hinders my fun. My eagerness to buy a bike was impeded riding chick and having to ask for help. I The girls and I are counting down until our of discriminating taste since 2003. by my mighty frame of 4ft 11”. Not too many wanted and needed to be able to handle first Friday ride. We have researched many models could accommodate my short legs but my bike independently and with practice, high-quality routes and are ready to roll. The We supply Pazzo, Knox, MotovationUSA, R&G Racing, Wiz Slider, Rizoma, my search ended at Harley. The Sportster was perseverance and bruised thighs I conquered excitement builds as well as I am starting made for me. Sleek, skinny, shiny and super my demons. to make changes to my bike by adding bags, Vesrah, CRG, Supersprox, Gilles Tool and many more. hot. I was sold. I took possession June 19th The other female riders and I decided that heated grips, and new handlebars. and never looked back. we needed to spread our own wings, hone I am not just a wife of a rider. I am a rider. Joining a riding group as a rider myself our skills and began riding Friday mornings. I keep up. I learn. I laugh and my sense of For details visit www.topendz.com or enquire via [email protected] held new meaning; the difference between Setting out on simple excursions we tackled pride when I say “I ride” is the coolest fun passenger and rider is more than I had main streets, highways, left turns, parking factor of adulthood. anticipated. I rode on the back of Monty’s and leading formation. We took turns in sept/OCT 2010 [66] sept/OCT 2010 [67] 2Ride and Blocko7’s 7th Annual Pre-Carribana Motorcycle Block Party. August 13th – 15th

story by Paul Balsamo Photos by Eric McBride

2Ride Motorcycle Magazine was pleased to mill around, socialize and enjoy the to sponsor the 7th Annual Pre-Caribana delicious food from the many vendors Motorcycle Block Party thrown by present. Parents in need of a little break TORONTO-LIME.com, Mr.PLAYHOUSE & could take advantage of the Kids Fun 2 Wheel Promotions. Area anytime they needed the breather. One of the most anticipated Motor- Of course, 2Ride Motorcycle Magazine cycle events in the GTA took place on and Biker Boyz T-Shirts were on sale at the lot in front of the “Wheels For Less” their respective booths. on Weston Rd. on July 25th 2010. Taking care of the live entertainment With free admission and perfect was host NBA star Jamaal Magloire along weather, this was an event that was hard with a long list of fantastic DJs that kept to beat this summer. Any proceeds from the whole place hopping all day. donations for parking were collected for Proudly sponsoring the event with charity. 2Ride.ca were the following businesses: Entertainment was provided all day WheelsForLess.ca, Sturgess Cycle, Clear by STUNTERs Inc. in one section of the Silver Grafx, VirtualPrint.com, Ticket lot. Nearby, girls were busy with the Gateway, Ian Andre Espinet Ent., TheCar- bikini wash, preparing some of the bikes ibbeanCamera.com, SocaTherapy.com for the Show N Shine taking place at an- and KOSradio.net other end of the property. Several of the The 2Ride Motorcycle Magazine team motorcycles brought along by the 2Ride would like to thank the event organizers Motorcycle Magazine team got the VIP and sponsors for their help in making wash from the girls, with the beauties this event a complete success and looks taking time for a few pictures during the forward to the 8Th annual Pre-Caribana process. Motorcycle Block Party in 2011. We Since this was a family oriented event, encourage everyone looking for a good while some riders were busy with the time and some great food to attend next poker ride, entire families were happy year and come visit us at our booth.

sept/OCT 2010 [68] sept/OCT 2010 [69] VRRA – Vintage Road Racing Association Event at Mosport International Raceway August 13th – 15th

story by Marc Antony Photos by Eric McBride

What an event, not only is it a are what started racing and it is VRRA’s founders. great weekend of classic’s ripping it amazing to see how these bikes and - Endurance Race: a multi-class up on a great track it was also VRRA their riders can still teach the new 2-hour race with teams of up to three 30th and Mosport International generation of riders and bikes a few riders open to machines from all Raceway’s 50th year Anniversary. lessons. periods. 2Ride was honored to be invited to Types of races at the Motorcycle - The Vintage Challenge open to the VRRA racing event at Mosport Festival at Mosport International all classes where no trophies are International Raceway it was a great Raceway are: provided but competitor’s placing way to help kick off our vintage/ The Masters: for riders over 50 are drawn for up to nine prizes. classic section. Everyone at this years of age riding any eligible All race results can be found at event treated us so well and we loved machine, http://www.mylaps.com/results/ seeing so many classics still making - The Warwick Cup: for 350cc and showevent.jsp?id=588491 a run for it. It was great to see bikes 500cc motorcycles of British only Also if you want to get involved I never knew and ones that “oh my manufacture, held in memory of in any way or like more info about look at that it’s a …..” These bikes Doug Warwick, racer and one of VRRA go to www.VRRA.ca sept/OCT 2010 [70] sept/OCT 2010 [71] CFK Ride-Cruise for Kids Saturday, August 7th 2010

story by Paul Balsammo Photos by Eric McBride

n Saturday, August here and there while assuming their is likely that no traffic laws were 7th 2010, the Southern duty with complete efficiency. They broken over the entire run and Cruisers Riding Club, could not be faulted one bit for being that the aggravation caused to car Barrie Chapter 328 so on top of their game. Over the drivers, who found themselves (http://scrc328.club. years, while attending organized around the participants of the officelive.com), ran the 8th annual runs in Canada, the US and Europe, run, was kept to a minimum while of Seasons Centre for Grieving Donations are tax deductible and Advance and Barrie Examiner, “CruiseO for Kids” Poker Run in a certain number of constants have everyone made their way to the wrap Children (www.grievingchildren. everyone’s participation is gratefully Casino Rama, Gibson Digital & Print full support of Seasons Centre for established themselves: groups gets up location at the Broken Spoke com), and 2Ride was proud to have acknowledged. Depot, Horseshoe Resort / Heights Grieving Children. Sponsored by broken up because of traffic and Saloon in Barrie. What a great PR been invited to attend. Grieving This year, the Southern Cruisers of Horseshoe, Innisville Cemetery “The Dock 104.1 FM”. When the or traffic signals, car drivers get move as well as a wonderful safety Children at Seasons Centre is a and all the participants raised over & Crematorium Ltd., Kempenfelt 2Ride.ca crew showed up at Diner 27 irritated with monster groups of conscious one! non-profit centre which supports $11,600 in support of the Seasons Rotary Club, O.P.P.A. & The Barrie for registration around 9 am things bikes, etc… , This event’s organizers The energy of the participants children dealing with the traumatic Centre bringing the 8 year total Police Assoc., The Dock 104.1 FM, were already in full swing, running displayed some very good thinking: was amazing, with everyone in death of a loved one through suicide, to $65,463.91. Overall, quite an Rogers Cable, Rotary Club of Barrie- like well-oiled machinery. Over a While most runs are launched as a great spirits. At every gas station or murder, accident or illness and for impressive achievement in these Huronia, The Dock / KICX 106 and very good breakfast, we were lucky gigantic group that causes endless store our group stopped, riders and those living with a loved one with difficult economic times. Everyone Sears Barrie. enough to meet a few of the officials complications, the Southern Cruisers passengers alike made a point to a life threatening illness. Sponsors involved should be proud of having The team at 2Ride would like to running the event and they left a actually separated the attendants walk in to purchase something from donated a number of fabulous prizes dug deep into their pockets for a congratulate the southern cruisers lasting impression on us with their into smaller, more manageable the business owners… A great way to and a fund raising raffle was held. great cause. for organizing a great, well run event dedication and professionalism. Not groups that could remain together tighten the ties with the community. Additionally riders raised money Major corporate sponsors supporting such a worthy cause. We a moment was wasted and they were without risking being broken up by Of course, the organized event was individually by collecting donations showed the Southern Cruiser their look forward to attending next year!! kind enough to give us a few minutes cars and various other hazards. It for a charitable cause, in support from their friends and family. support this year included: Barrie sept/OCT 2010 [72] sept/OCT 2010 [73] PORT DOVER - Friday 13th, 2010 story by Mizz lucy Superstitious? No Boys Allowed, I Think Not ! Just Us Girlz Friday the 13th! From 7am on there must have been a line up Women On motorcycles at least 6 kilometers long just to get in to Port dover. the rum- ble of Bike exhausts heating up the already hot day, we rolled With the inspiration of the famous Friday the 13th event in Port dover, a group of into town with lots of anticipation ready to celebrate the 50th lady riders decided organize an annual ‘all Girlz ride’ for charity to the city of Port event of Friday the 13th in Port dover. the main street was dover in order to raise money for different causes. already lined with bikes of all sorts, from showroom models to Enthusiastic about the idea of helping women riders, the 2008 event was a far out customs and everything else in-between. Of course we great success and became a cornerstone event for all women who ride with the same always see the same people that make it a dover to remember, passion. now in its third year, the 2010 ride was hugely successful as over 200 female like Mr. thong... yes that’s right! a buff older gent that rides riders came together in support of the ride, raising money for charity, and also around on his Honda 650 sporting a colorful thong. showing their freedom of spirit as women riders. this year’s Girlz ride was also specially commemorated by a very special all the store fronts have tables with their merchandise and award. 2Ride Motorcycle Magazine was happy to honor a very special young lady memorabilia that says 50th Friday august 13th ensuring there rider, Bayleigh Deane, with the Victory Achievement for overcoming her fi ght is enough for the estimating 150,000+ participants. the great against cancer. Congratulations Bayleigh!! thing about this little town, with their big heart and open arms to bikers, is that they take great pride in making it a success. there are many great tourist attractions and stores that really embrace the riding community. the Maple Leaf newspaper is always there to cover the event, oh and did I also mention, 2Ride Magazine were there as special guests covering this event as well.

the Maple Leaf newspaper provides background on how Fri- day the 13th in Port dover started…

“Chris simons and approximately 25 friends, through word of mouth, got together at the Commercial Hotel (the Zoo), now known as angelo’s of dover. It was in november and it was Friday the 13th. they had such a good time they decided they should do it every Friday the 13th. From there on after, the number of people coming out to dover has increased. Chris has a suitcase full of newspaper and magazine clippings regarding Friday the 13th and he has become somewhat of a celebrity because of it. everywhere he goes, people have heard of Friday the 13th in Port dover.”

sept/OCt 2010 [74] sept/OCt 2010 [75] Project”S” story By Veronica Ramos Carrasco

Whether you’re just joining us this edition or need a memory booster, in July’s issue we introduced Sarah Braid, a 20-year-old with rather limited riding experience but big ideas for building her own personal motorcycle under the guidance of her fiancé and owner of I.D. Streetfighters, Ian Dunbar.

he bike-to-be began valve springs. This is done as a ‘92 Suzuki GSXR carefully and under guidance, 750 frame and its with parts being labeled so that engine within. The Sarah will know where to put engine has since every bit back in its place. been removed and taken apart. Sarah finds that her biggest This includes removing all hoses challenge is time, with work and electrical wiring, checking and all the other things to do. and replacing spark plugs and Progress has gone much slower than previously nearby riders who visit the shop anticipated. “I and see her working on her realize how much project has been positive. It is work I still have to very rare for someone, especially do and I find that a young female with such limited it’s piling up. It is riding experience, to take on exciting to do it and a task that requires hands-on I am really enjoying learning as the work gets done. all the things I get Sarah’s upcoming work will be on to learn about the the front suspension. She started bike.” Her aim is designing some of the parts that for the bike to be will be going on and is beginning completed to attend to learn how to weld. the bike shows in 2Ride will continue to follow January 2011. Sarah’s progress for you to read Response from about in our next issue. sept/OCT 2010 [76] sept/OCT 2010 [77] corrosion. You are better off storing your bringing the bike out of storage. as furnaces or water heaters. If you need bike in a cold garage for the duration of to store it on a cold or concrete floor use its hibernation if heated storage is not an If your motorcycle is carbureted, once an old piece of carpet or wood to keep it option. Use stands to lift the motorcycle cooled down, drain the carburetor from direct contact with the floor. The Project: securely or carpet/ cardboard under float bowls. There are typically small battery should be charged regularly by Winterization & Storage tires when storing the bike, this will add screws on the carburetor float bowls either charging it with a trickle charger to your tire’s life but preventing the cold to easily drain the fuel without having every few weeks or leaving it on a Required Parts: ground from leeching any oils from your to remove the carbs. This is not 100% maintenance (float) charger. 1. Oil Filter tires and in the case of stands it will also necessary when using fuel stabilizer but TECH 2. Oil prevent flat spots from developing on easy insurance against carb problems Cover your bike with a commercial cover 3. Oil Pan the tires from sitting. in the spring when that warm Saturday or old bed sheet, this will help keep it morning comes and you want to ride. clean during storage and help prevent Required Tools: Fill your gas tank with fuel and add fuel Wash the bike thoroughly and wax scratches and small dings from moving 1. Filter Wrench (if required) stabilizer. Filling your fuel tank with gas it, this will help prevent corrosion your hockey equipment or ice fishing 2. Wrench/Ratchet-Set will prevent rust by limiting the amount from any salts that may have already gear near your motorcycle. 3. socket Set of air, and in turn moisture, inside your accumulated on the bike. It also serves tank. Fuel stabilizer is an additive that as an opportunity to identify any loose Once covered, place moth balls around Corner prevents fuel from breaking down. bolts or other maintenance items that the bike to prevent critters from making story By Marc Antony Typically gas has a shelf life of roughly 3 need to be taken care of. a nest in your bike. You would be months before it starts degrading. This surprised at how much mice love settling degradation leads to poor performance Clean and lube your chain. Use kerosene down inside a motorcycle using the air and deposits forming in the filter, seat foam and wiring as know it’s a difficult topic to think fuel system which can clog fuel nest building materials. about this time of year but as the filters, carburetors and fuel season comes to a close we need injectors. Its cheap insurance Following these steps will make to make decisions about putting against expensive repairs come the spring a lot easier when it our bikes to bed for the winter. spring. Make sure after adding comes time to wake your bike Decisions such as do I winterize it myself the fuel stabilizer, at the ratio from its slumber. Consult your Ior have a shop perform the service? How indicated on the bottle, to run owners’ and / or service manual do I winterize my motorcycle? Where do the bike for at least 10 mins to for details on how to perform I store it? warm it up and ensure the fuel these activities on your bike, There are two choices when it comes stabilizer is distributed in the if in doubt contact a qualified time to store your bike, prepare and system properly. mechanic. store the bike yourself or have a local bike shop perform the service for you. Once the bike has been warmed The choice of preparing There are pros and cons to each. up by running it to distribute your motorcycle for storage the fuel stabilizer change the yourself or having a bike shop If you choose to store and prepare the oil. Engine oil absorbs impurities from or a commercial chain cleaner to remove perform the service is yours. If you are motorcycle yourself there are a number the air and fuel during the combustion any old lubricant from the chain and mechanically inclined and have a safe, of steps you should follow: process. These impurities can be harmful sprockets. Inspect the sprockets for any secure location to store your bike then to the engine if left for long periods missing or deformed teeth; also have a you may opt to spend an afternoon late Choose a location to store your bike. If time. There is much debate on whether look for any cracks around the mounting in the season doing it yourself. Or, if a possible use covered storage such as in motorcycle oil should be changed both bolts. Make sure your chain is properly location for a few months is difficult or a garage, if the garage is heated even when storing the bike in the fall as well adjusted and inspect for any wear or would like to have a bike shop perform better. Try not to store your motorcycle as in the spring or once at either the tight spots paying special attention to some necessary maintenance while in an area where the temperature will beginning or end of storage. If your the master link, if present. Lubricate the your bike is sleeping for the winter then vary a great deal from day to day, such motorcycle isn’t started during the chain with your preferred dry wax or paying someone to take care of it might as a storage space that is heated to room storage period then a single oil change petroleum based chain lubricant. be the best option for you. temperature several times a week and in the fall is sufficient. If you like to start then left to cool down in between. The your motorcycle during the winter or Remove the battery from the motorcycle Whichever option you choose, proper variations in temperature can lead to perhaps take it out for a ride during the and store it away from the bike. If preparation for storage will ensure your condensation inside areas such as the odd warm January day then you may possible, store it in a warm location away motorcycle is ready in the spring when fuel tank and engine which will cause want to consider changing the oil when from any sources of ignition or heat such the sun and dry roads beckon.

sept/OCT 2010 [78] sept/OCT 2010 [79] Subscriber’s Corner

Pre-owned 2006 Ninja 650R 2002 Suzuki sv650s in perfect condition. Never 67,000km, lower fairings, been dropped. Stored matching hotbodies properly over winter. undertail, upgraded Windshield and under tail stainless brake lines, are after market. Only 13,624km. Asking $5900 titanium yoshimura certified. Shirishapiro@ exhaust slip on. rogers.com or Sheri at Asking $4000 416-888-8775 [email protected]

2004 ZX6RR, yes a True For Sale RR not just an R model, 2007 Kawasaki Versys - with 12,500Km a Yosh $6500 (Richmond Hill) slip on pipe, some Excellent condition. scratches from a low 15,000km 650 cc slide, Kawi Green, lots parallel twin. Asking of power runs great. $6500 certified. Contact Asking $5600 email [email protected] [email protected]

Blue 2008 Suzuki GS500 with 8350KM, certified with UVIP, $3500. Want to place a classifed ad contact In excellent condition. [email protected]. Comes with a brand new cover. Call 647-388-4558 $79.99 Or email mirkhani@ sept/OCT 2010 [80] gmail.com sept/OCT 2010 [81] Lori Age: 34

I’ve been riding for about 6yrs, on my own as I was always a passenger. Getting tired of waiting for someone to give me a ride, I ended up taking the Riders Course, which I encourage any motorcycle enthusiast to do. I ride a Suzuki GS 500F, as it suits all my needs of the road and comfort of the ride. Being a Single Mom, I love to take my daughter out for rides, telling me she would like to be a dirt bike rider someday. Getting together with my other female rider friends, we travel country roads, from Toronto to the States side, meeting up with new and old friends and always finding roads untravelled.

MIchael Single Age: 52

My older brother always rode a bike, then my sister started riding, so I thought I’d follow along and got a 72 Honda CB 100. That was the first motorized vehicle owned at 16yrs. I love riding for the people you meet, and the code of the road. I now own the very first Aprilia, which was flown across Europe, to a Dealership that was also the first to have Aprilias in Canada. My second bike is a 1996 Honda Shadow 1100, I restored from the ground up. As my dad would say,’ if you can’t fix it, you can’t ride it. Along my riding years, I joined a riding group and like the benefits that come with it such as charity runs, bike events and Our Annual get togethers with other fellow members.

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