March 2016

Moto Guzzi’s Meanest

2 Sexy 4 My Gear • #RedBikesMatter • Lane Splitting Updates • Gentrifiers v. Locals • FJ-09 Project Update News, Clues & Rumors Volume XXXIII, Issue 3 Publication Date: February 22, 2016 Photo Of The Month: You Can On The Cover: Always Use More Horsepower Griso-mounted Sactown CityBiker An DeYoung keeps an eye out for the man in Oakland. A few of the high-vis Ride To The Photo: Angelica Rubalcaba Unification Rally crew chated up some Contents: fellow riders at the State Capital during a NCR ...... 3 break in the rain. You see, folks? We can all Locals Only ...... 4 just get along. Pitstops ...... 6 Uneasy Rider ...... 7 Breaking News: The Bible Says New Stuff ...... 9 Events ...... 12 “Don’t Ride Alone” Thexthee ...... 13 We’re about to do something that doesn’t Greezy Weezy ...... 14 Pretty Bikes ...... 17 happen too often—we’re gonna quote The Photo: Surj Gish Red Matter ...... 18 Bible right here in Ye Olde CityBike. Feejer Finish ...... 19 that gave $10,000 to the SFMC back in was converted to a two year bill, thus Devine ...... 20 It was a sunny day in January and the July 2015 to help them pay for repairs essentially delaying action until this year. Doc Frazier ...... 21 Wrecking Crew was loafing about our to their clubhouse, which drowned in We’ve been waiting eagerly for the Maynard ...... 22 luxurious East Bay HQ , reclining in our Stormageddon. Hertfelder ...... 23 expensive chairs (What, you thought we’d legislative session to start—CityBike Classifieds ...... 24 be out riding? Hah!), chuckling at our The AMA, always a step ahead of us, supports the bill in its current form, Slappy McSlapperson ...... 26 interns’ feeble attempts to count the ever- has awarded the century-plus old club of which would codify a 50 MPH top speed Last Page Photo ...... 27 bikers in orange with their “Friend of the with a 15 MPH delta. It’s an acceptable Sexiest Men’s Gear for 2016 . . . . 29 increasing stacks of payola that we now use for cubicle walls, and Senior Editor AMA” award, which is awarded to clubs, compromise to get something concrete on Find us online at: businesses and other organizations that the books, which would let CHP, OTS and CityBike.com Bob Stokstad piped up: “We have a Bible around here?” have “strongly supported the AMA mission other organizations dedicate resources to /CityBikeMag and programs.” educating both riders and drivers, /CityBikeMag After a few minutes of poking and remove the supposed “gray area” and prodding the dusty stacks that exists today. Having an actual /CityBikeMag OMC: friend of the of books in Editor Surj’s office, AMA and SFMC. law will also help prevent a future CityBike Staff: we gave up, and Bob pointed ban. PO Box 18738 out, “Well, there’s always the Oakland CA 94619 internet. Anyway, look up We checked in with Tomasa Phone: 415.282.2790 Ecclesiastes 4:10.” It took us Duenas, Quirk’s Chief of Staff Editorial: [email protected] a few tries to get the spelling for a status update, and she told Advertising / Business: [email protected] us: “AB 51 is currently in Senate Editor in Chief & Jackass of All Trades: Surj Gish right—we keep starting with accel… for some reason—but Transportation Committee. At Master of Puppets & Layout: Angelica Rubalcaba once we’d gotten close enough this moment it is too early to know Senior Editor: Robert Stokstad for Google to figure it out, we when the bill will be scheduled Contributing Editors: John Joss, Will Guyan, read this out loud: for a hearing. It can be as early Courtney Olive as March or as late as July. With Chief of the World Adventure Affairs Desk: If either of them falls down, Photo: Surj Gish regards to the direction the bill Dr. Gregory Frazier one can help the other up. Club president (and friend of CityBike) will take, we are not sure if the bill will Staff Photographers: Robert Stokstad, But pity anyone who falls Bill Espinola said, “The Oakland move forward in its current version or a Angelica Rubalcaba and has no one to help them up different version all together.” Illustrations: Mr. Jensen Club is greatly appreciative Operations: Gwynne Fitzsimmons That’s the NIV (New International of being awarded the prestigious 2016 Remember, Quirk promised us that if he’s Road Scholars: Version) version of the passage. If you want Friend of the AMA Award. Throughout forced to reduce the speeds in AB 51, he’ll J. Brandon, Sam Devine, Jeff Ebner, more something more biblical sounding, the 109-year existence of our club, the pull the bill (“Better Luck Next Time? An DeYoung, Max Klein you can always go with the King James programs and goals of the AMA have been AB 51 Pushed To 2016” – Uneasy Rider, Contributors: Version for this kind of jazz: “woe to him diligently supported not only through August 2015). If for some reason the speeds Dan Baizer, Craig Bessenger, the sponsorship of untold numbers of Blaise Descollonges, Dirck Edge, Julian Farnam, that is alone when he falleth…” are lowered and he doesn’t make good on Alonzo Fumar, Will Guyan, Brian Halton, sanctioned events, but also through our that promise, he’ll lose the limited support Bob looked pleased, having schooled the David Hough, Maynard Hershon, Ed Hertfelder, efforts to be an asset and good neighbor he currently has from the motorcycle rest of us heathens with good smack from Otto Hofmann, Jon Jensen, Bill Klein, to the general community. We believe community, CityBike included. David Lander, Lucien Lewis, Larry Orlick, the Good Book, and said, “This applies so this form of brotherhood and outreach Jason Potts, Bob Pushwa, Gary Rather, well to the Ed Cavanaugh stories.” Stay tuned for updates as we learn more. Curt Relick, Charlie Rauseo, Mike Solis, contributes greatly to a positive image Ivan Thelin, James Thurber. It’s true. We’ve heard from a lot of riders of motorcycling as a whole. We are ABATE Supporting AB 51 Alumni (RIP): about Jason Potts’ heartfelt story (“The delighted to be recognized for our efforts John D’India, Joe Glydon, Gary Jaehne, Teacher’s Last Lesson” – February 2016) and we thank the AMA for all it does for Following in the footsteps of the ever- Adam Wade the advancement of the motorcycling progressive, groundbreaking, even Back Issues: $5, limited availability on what we motorcyclists should learn Archived Articles: We can find stories and send you scanned images for community.” disruptive thinkers here at CityBike, $5/page. No, we will not mail you our last copy for free just because your from the search for Ed Cavanaugh, and a buddy Dave was on the cover. Please know the name of the story and the ABATE of California (American year of publication...at least! If you say something like, “it was about this lot of these people have talked about the cool bike I used to see at Alice’s and I think it was in CityBike in 1988... Splitting Down To Business… or maybe 1994” we will buy a cheap latex adult novelty and mail it to your Brotherhood Aimed Toward grandkids. importance of not riding alone. So here’s For back issue and archive requests, please mail check made out to Maybe Later This Year Education), which had previously CityBike magazine to PO Box 18738, Oakland, CA 94619 or send money the definitive word on it, kids: don’t ride and request to [email protected]. alone—the Bible says so. If you’ve been paying attention opposed AB 51 like many other CityBike is published on or about the third Monday of each month. Editorial MROs, has voted to “accept deadline is the 1st of each month. Advertising information is available on to the ongoing saga of lane request. Unsolicited articles and photographs are always welcome. Please include a full name, address and phone number with all submissions. We and urge passage” of AB 51. reserve the right to edit manuscripts or use them to wipe our large, fragrant OMC Receives “Friend Of The splitting legislation in bottoms. California and other ©2015, CityBike Magazine, Inc. Citybike Magazine is distributed at over AMA” Award Chuck Pederson, 200 places throughout California each month. Taking more than a few copies at any one place without permission from CityBike Magazine, Inc, states (please tells us especially for purposes of recycling, is theft and will be prosecuted to the If we knew we could give award to people ABATE’s Legislative full extent of civil and criminal law. Yeah! you’re paying attention, Director, told us the CityBike magazine is owned by CityBike Magazine, Inc and has teams of simply because they’re our friends, the sleep-deprived, coke-addicted attorneys ready to defend it from frivolous or we’re gonna need to lawsuits, so even if you see Lucien Lewis doing one of his wheelies on Oakland Motorcycle Club would have organization voted to the cover and decide you want to do that too and then you hit a parked car and your bike is wedged under a van and it catches fire and the Vallejo FD have a talk) you know that “support AB 51 as currently has to come and extinguish the resulting blaze and four cars and your bike gotten the “Friend of CityBike” award a are melted into slag and you suffer permanent trauma including a twisted AB 51, the lane splitting bill pinkie, sleeplessness and night terrors, it’s not CityBike Magazine Inc.’s long time ago. We love those guys and written. The bill must support fault and we don’t have any assets so just suck on it. You know better. gals—after all, these are the people introduced last year by California Assemblymember Bill Quirk, March 2016 | 2 | CityBike.com March 2016 | 3 | CityBike.com the 50 MPH maximum with the 15 MPH In summary, hey riders, you’re welcome And Speaking Of Moronic… Treasure Island. According to someone just a few days before re-opening the new or earphones covering, resting on, or inserted differential.” to pass slow traffic in that area where road close to the situation (that we made up), Treasure Island shop on Saturday, March in, both ears.” House Bill 16-1205, introduced by debris and discarded souls of Amazon this is due to the lack of law enforcement 12th. Stay tuned here or check MotoGuild- Locals Only: Something Spinks Right on the money, Chuck. Here’s hoping Republican Gordon Klingenschmitt The difference was the addition of employees pile up, as long as you keep it on TI, making all kinds of midnight SF.com for the new address and secret Assemblymember Quirk stays true to back in January, would have allowed lane “earphones covering, resting on, or under 25 MPH, and don’t go more than 10 malarkey good to go—but others have handshake required for entry. the mantra he and his staff repeated over splitting in slow moving traffic (not more inserted in…” MPH faster than the traffic to your right. hypothesized it’s another sign that San and over during our discussions last year: than 5 MPH) if the rider does not exceed But the good news, in case you’re able Francisco is just too fucking expensive, and Well-Read Bullies We weren’t sure what to make of that: Quirk is a scientist, he values data, and we a 15 MPH or 10 MPH delta. This slower- to keep air in your tires amongst all the frankly, kinda sucks now. We love you SF, Trevor Latham, President Would The Man can trust he’ll keep the Berkeley research than-California language is common in garbage: but you’ve changed—regular riders can’t of the East Bay Rats—you be lighting us and data in mind with regard to the states where riders are trying to get some keep up with your fancy taste, and your know, the fight club (club) that up any time specifics of the legislation. Any operator of a motor vehicle that version of lane sharing on the books. new friends are assholes. predates the Fight Club (movie he observed intentionally impedes or attempts to prevent Unfortunately, the bill is already dead— and book) guys, is half the the flashing Moronic “Splitting” any operator of a motorcycle from operating People actually close to the situation, AKA killed by a 5 to 8 vote in the Transportation story in a new book, Bullies, by blue light of Oops. That should read More On Splitting. his or her motorcycle as permitted under this Aleks and and Energy Committee. Alex Abramovich. The book our Bluetooth Like, in other states. Hey, can someone pull subsection is guilty of a traffic infraction. Wilder (the The discussion included all tells the story of the Rats, headsets? Do the lever labeled “stop the presses” so we founders of That’s right, if some idiot from the the classic ignorance about the city of Oakland, and the those tiny can fix this? Too late? Oh well—it’s pretty Moto Guild) told hinterlands gets all butt-hurt about your splitting and California: well, evolving relationship between helmet-mounted accurate. us the Potrero “special lane” and clips you to teach you a they wear helmets in California, Abramovich and Latham, speakers qualify Hill location lesson, he’ll get a ticket. Seems fair. Solid so it’s not the same thing; it’s who started out as childhood as covering, or Washington’ s SB 5623, one of two bills was always thinking. not the riders, it’s the drivers enemies and grew into friends resting on our introduced in 2015 to legalize lane splitting temporary—it basically in accordance with the now- we’re worried about; and this in adulthood. ears? They’re Interestingly, the Washington Senate was slated to be dead and gone CHP guidelines, was then gem: even in California, it’s just certainly not Photo: Surj Gish seems to be ok with leaving the ridiculous razed and turned The author will be doing two confusingly amended to allow riders to “allowed” and not really legal. inserted in… restriction on two bikes abreast in a single into condos, Bay Area readings in March, pass on the left of the left-most lane of ouch. By Surj Gish The Dirtbag Challenge” – January 2015) lane in place—the bill passed the Senate on Seriously? That’s almost as because that’s with Latham on hand, at City traffic. The bill was amended again in Photos by Bob Stokstad & here in CityBike. February 5th, 34 to 15, and now goes on to stupid as “there’s not any what SF needs: Lights in the city (duh) and We talked to Chris February to clarify that statement to apply Surj Gish the House of Representatives. supporting evidence,” which more condos. Moe’s in Berkeley. Get more Scranton, from “I really took that to heart, and I was only to divided highways: is the Colorado State Patrol’s After months information about those events and Scranton Law Firm One of the bikes at the 2015 Dirtbag trying to follow his lead… just acquire Look, we’re happy that riders are making The operator of a motorcycle shall not position on the safety of lane of hunting for the book itself at AlexAbramovich.com. (ScrantonLawFirm.com). He looked at the Challenge really caught my eye: Tony as much stuff as I could, so that when it some progress in the Evergreen State, and overtake and pass in the same lane occupied splitting. Apparently, the Colorado po-po another location in SF, and an aborted We’ll see you there! updated vehicle code, and basically told us Spinks’ elegantly simple TT500-based came time to build I’d have lots of raw the bill’s Democrat sponsor is conceptually by the vehicle being overtaken, except on the don’t have the internet, or can’t read, or are attempt to secure a location in Berzerkeley, not to worry our pretty little heads: hardtail. The perfectly shaped tank— materials to work with. That was one of correct in trying to “reduce congestion left-hand side of a vehicle traveling in the left- just dicks. they asked the community, “where do we Update: Headset Legality From “must be a Triumph tank,” I thought— the things I picked up.” and improve safety by giving motorcyclists “The purpose of the law is to keep drivers and most lane of traffic on a numbered state route go from here?” Response was equally in Someone Smarter Than Us set at just the right angle, tied the mish- greater freedom on our highways.” But this riders from using cell phone headsets inserted He figures, all in, he cut it pretty close at that is a divided highway having two or more Moto Guild Moving favor of SF and Oakland, at 40%, with 20% mash of ‘70s single, modern-ish wheels, greater freedom actually puts riders at more We reported last month on new bits of over their ears that block all the ambient about $950—$50 shy of the $1,000 limit. lanes of traffic in each direction separated by Following in the footsteps of the ever- asking for other locations. The solution: and clean custom-fab frame together so risk, and since it’s limited to divided state vehicle code that affect us riders, including noise. That makes good sense. But the [helmet a physical barrier or unpaved median if the groundbreaking CityBike, who exited the Treasure Island. well that the bike looked to my eyes more The bike was near-perfect, visually highways, it will do nothing for in-town Section 27400, which was amended to communicators] create a gap between the operator of the motorcycle is traveling at a rate increasing rents and elevated noses of “proper classic” than many of the feeble speaking, but not quite up to the task of congestion. We hate to look a gift horse in Aleks and Wilder promise minimal read: speaker and your ears and are fundamentally of speed no more than ten miles per hour over San Francisco years before it was the cool retro-jerk bikes the big boys are building hauling ass up and down the Peninsula. the mouth, but this particular pony looks downtime. They plan to close the current different than a headset. You can still hear the speed of traffic flow and not more than thing to do, Moto Guild is in the process th “A person operating a motor vehicle or bicycle en masse. primed to bite us in the ass. Potrero Hill location on Sunday, March 6 , the ambient or surrounding noise which is “One of the things I learned building a twenty-five miles per hour. of packing up for the greener pastures of may not wear a headset covering, earplugs in, I wasn’t alone in my admiration—Tony chassis for the first time on my own… won Coolest Bike—and I wasn’t wrong motor mount placement and thickness about that tank. It was an honest-to-God are critical. The motor vibrated so Triumph tank, certainly to the chagrin violently in the chassis that it just started BMW Motorrad of at least a few Anglo-purist collector sawing through the top motor mount.” USA types. To make matters dangerous, in addition His build story begins with a refrain to painfully uncomfortable, the oil cap The Ultimate familiar to many Dirtbag wannabes: unscrewed from the vibration and oil Authorized Dealer Riding Machine™ “Always wanted to do it, but never had poured out, coating the back tire. the space.” Where’s the bike now? As an H-D mechanic, he had the skills. When he finally got a garage with room “Still got the motor, but Justin Martens to breathe, he decided to make his own has the chassis now… I think he’s going frame. He read up on flat track geometry, put a different motor in it, something bought a bender, and built a frame bigger. I kept the tank.” around a neck from DON’T JUST a scrapped DR650. A Bandit front end SEIZE THE DAY. fit the DR neck, and an SV650 rear wheel completed the running gear. LEAN INTO IT. The TT single MAKE LIFE A RIDE. came from a kid Not everyone takes the chance. Even fewer have the passion who’d been using and the courage to make the most of it. But for those who it in a go kart, for can, for those who do, there is the 2016 BMW S 1000 RR. $200. For more information, visit bmwmotorcycles.com. That beautiful Triumph tank? Tony traded a near- complete Honda CalMoto CB750 for it, that he’d picked up for BMW OF TRI-VALLEY CALIFORNIA BMW $100 after reading 952 North Canyons Parkway 2490 Old Middlefi eld Way aerostich.com/cb Livermore, California 94551 Mountainview, California 94043 Julian Farnam’s 925-583-3300 650-966-1183 post-Dirtbag trademarks. registered name and logo are The BMW North America, LLC. of BMW USA, a division of Motorrad ©2016 BMW calbmw.com calbmw.com instructive article Photo by Clint Graves - 2015 (“How To Win Photo: Bob Stokstad Michael Campos on the Sunday Morning Ride © 2015

March 2016 | 4 | aeroCityBike.com cb 02_2016.indd 1 1/4/16 1:16 PM March 2016 | 5 | CityBike.com What If There Were No Lines? a few other bikes over there that you may or “There are definitely a couple of people side. They rented a studio equipped with because one of the big challenges was we may not have seen.” I need to thank,” says Eccles. “Obviously an infinity wall and a giant tripod used to removed the traction control and the ABS From the desk of our “Surfing The Web a bike like this, 700 hours, doesn’t come capture the stunning overhead shots that system...we removed the air box and the Instead Of Riding” department, we have an “The Leggera!” Someone yells amidst a without a lot of help. display the bike’s unique tapered design. “It oxygen sensors. A lot of [modern] bikes, interesting proposal to increase safety via crowd of flash bulbs. So, I’d like to thank took fifteen to twenty top shots just to get they’re all PCU and they use injection “self enforcement.” 038: Untitled, Not Unsung my beautiful wife the right angle.” systems and it’s very difficult to actually The proposed test is based on a trial Jessica for being remove a lot of that stuff. There’s quite a lot It’s a rainy night in San Francisco and “We need to give a huge thanks to Max,” that occurred in London, where three very understanding of technical wizardry involved to make it Piston and Chain is stuffed to the gills says McLaughlin. “When we hired Max roads were resurfaced but did not have and not seeing me not freak out and actually fire up again.” with folks clamoring to see a bike that won almost a year ago, we all knew he was center lines reapplied. Traffic speeds on for a month or second place. Untitled and good, he came from Florida and his Max Muller chooses not to speak and these roads subsequently decreased by a two... My good Marin Speed Shop partnered on a bike for references were keeps disappearing over the course of minimum of 5.4 MPH. friend Simon who the Scrambler Custom Rumble, and impeccable. But did a lot of work they’ve produced one helluva bike. when we saw the Transport For London said of the test, on the bike. I need challenge that “centre line removal introduces an element The competition was between all of the to mention Turk he had and what of uncertainty which is reflected in lower Ducati dealers around the world. Entries from Turk’s shop. he did, it was speeds.” had to be based on the 2015 Ducati He’s a great local Scrambler. Judging was done via “likes” shocking. And It seems that we stateside riders ought to be fabricator who’s on Instagram and the North American so it’s great to able to use these findings as ammunition helped with a lot winner was a spiked-tire ice-racer with a Illustration by Ian Galvin know that your for removal of double yellows on the of the fabrication. He’s right snow-camo paint job. The five finalists master tech is consistent with the intention of the law. They the Northern California slot (currently good twisties, where we often get stuck over there, go talk to him. He’s very nice.” from around the world can be seen at “Yes, the Leggera NCR, which is that blue really truly a do not necessarily touch your ears or go in October 1st) after being first postponed, behind incompetent crawlers incapable of ScramblerDucati.com/en/special-bike/21- carbon thing. That is a very special bike. A “Sometimes,” pipes up Turk. master.” them. The purpose is to keep people from then canceled last year because the Napa maintaining reasonable speeds because of finalists. hundred and fifty-thousand-dollar hand- using ear buds and similar devices that will County Fairgrounds, where Calistoga all the steering required. Presumably the made from Bologna. It never gets shown. “Dan Acker, of Acker Leather works. A The build block outside hearing. Speedway is located, were being used as an speed reduction achieved by removing two But the bike we’re all here to see has You’ll see this one [the 038] more than ton of other local contractors. And Jay up was quite an evacuation center for people displaced by yellow lines instead of a single white line garnered much more attention than you’ll ever see that one... I’m going to bring at Moto Finish up in Santa Rosa who did undertaking. “So if you have a white cord coming from your the Lake County fire. would be roughly double. We save money the winners. It’s appeared in numerous the two main protagonists of this bike, the paint. And RC Rivera for the fantastic The team Photo: Sam Devine helmet I would expect a ticket. If you have a on paint, and everyone slows down. It’s the motorcycle blogs as well as online design Hugo Eccles, master designer. Max Muller, photos that you seen behind me. We got a removed over Sena you are probably fine. It would also be We’ve heard that something is in the works. perfect plan! magazines and even Playboy magazine’s master mechanic.” lot of comments like, is it a rendering. And 85 pounds of plastics and processors from the evening. Like many technicians, difficult to determine if someone was using the The Calistoga is a goddamn good time, website. Of course now it’s really hit the big no, it is not. You can come have a look at it the already light Scrambler Icon model. public interaction is apparently not his Sena since it doesn’t have a cord and it could and Triumph signing on as presenting Stay tuned on our progress as we traffic this time, published in the austere pages of this Cameras flash as Muller and Eccles join yourself. favorite activity. But he has done a great be wired with only one speaker. I doubt cops sponsor was a big step for the event and flat brilliant idea to the various agencies. “We put the whole kind of tentacle package here most prestigious motorcycle journal. McLaughlin by the shrouded sickle. job convincing the bike to run again and really want to hassle riders with these devices. track racing in California—as Half-Mile “I spent about nine hours with Hugo together and then… Max really sorted out after pouring gas into the tank, they fire co-promoter and Ramspur Winery founder Dumb Mistakes… Again “The exposure’s just been crazy,” says the getting those shots,” Rivera tells us on the the electrics and all those kind of systems “There are always going to be cops that don’t it up. It takes it a moment, but once it gets Terry Otton said at the time, “To see an Last month, we had to point out that we bike’s designer Hugo Eccles, of Untitled care to distinguish between the devices and OEM step up and sponsor a race event got a name wrong, specifically Tom, err, Motorcycles. “I don’t know [why.] It may cite you but the ones I talked to did seem non-riders, regular people, already think I think you should be too—after all, if is something I can’t say I remember ever Tony Spinks, whose sweet-ass Dirtbagger is was designed to be provocative. I think to get it and have no problem with them. They we’re crazy. We choose a method of you wait for an MRO (motorcycle rights happening in the past.” featured in Locals Only on page 4. maybe it’s the first Scrambler that’s really just don’t want to see a cell phone headset.” transportation that falls over if we aren’t organization) that has the exact same fundamentally changed to a point where it’s Why are we bringing up that dumb mistake constantly interacting with it, that is viewpoints you do, you’ll be an MRO of There you have it, folks—in a nutshell, Speaking Of Flat Track… almost unrecognizable.” again? Well, we screwed up one more vulnerable to the weather, to being run one until you die. But would I rather the we’re good. If Johnny Law is looking Part of the fun at the Sacramento Mile time—last time, we promise! Totally. But And it does look different. Its sleek lines over by much larger vehicles. AMA tone it down a bit on the whole to hassle riders, he could certainly add the last two years has been the “Clash this time instead of just getting someone’s taper to a front headlight that is little more “mandatory helmet laws do nothing to “headset on helmet” to his or her list of of the Titans,” a friendly exhibition race interest was compounded by much lower So here we are, trying to be taken name wrong, we mistakenly gave credit to than a strip of LEDs. The instrument Helmet Laws Might Suck... prevent crashes” thing? Hell yes. I actually profiling criteria, but such officers already between three-time AMA Grand National biker attendance than usual. seriously as sensible the wrong person. We gave credit to Sam cluster is an almost unnoticeable Moto quit ABATE because of this stuff, have so much to hassle us about, like those Champion Jay Springsteen and former rival But It’s Time To Move On humans, trying to talk Devine for the photos that accompanied Gadget Mini Scope, machined in place The day after the rally, I went down although I Chris Carr. with legislators about goddamn Screamin’ Termis some of you to Santa Cruz to be interviewed on may have to his story about Jonathan Dela Vega’s at Turk’s Shop. This is one of those rare After the Unification Rally in January, lane splitting being insist on investing in. the Motorcycles and Misfits podcast reconsider Since Springsteen has handily trounced groovy Grom (“Locals Only: Going, Going custom bikes that is not only beautiful to I did a bunch of thinking about where smart and safer than (MotorcyclesAndMisfits.com), and that now 2016 AMA Flat Track Schedule Carr in both of the previous Clashes, this Grom!” – January 2016) when we should look at but looks like a blast to ride. we’re at with motorcycle rights, or more sitting around waiting year he’ll be going up against nine-time have credit his pal Jonathan Costello. We’re accurately, motorcyclist privileges. None after we were done talking, I realized that they’re “If you held up the two bikes to everyone to be rear-ended, trying The AMA has released the 2016 Pro Flat national champ Scott Parker. In case you’re sorry, Mr. Costello—that Abbott son of the things we’re talking about are really that weekend, between the rally and supporting here, they’d say that’s the winner,” says to have intelligent Track schedule… sort of. Which is to say familiar with math, nine championships of a bitch was apparently up to his usual “rights” in the sense of human rights, God- the interview, marked the first time I’d AB 51. Greg McCord, owner of Marin Speed conversations about they’ve released the schedule, but it’s not is three times as many as three, meaning mischief behind the scenes. given rights, or whatever, but for example, observed myself in real time actively Shop, pointing at the sleek machine. “Hugo profiling or whatever Look, I’m not complete. There are three California races: Sprinsgteen is three times as likely to get we love to talk about our right to split modulating my public responses to We really gotta get our act together. It’s not is just a star. He went above and beyond the issue du jour is, saying the the Sacramento Mile is on, of course, on his ass handed to him in Sac as he is to lanes. It’s shorthand. questions like “what do you think of like we misidentified the metal in some what he needed to do.” and it’s not surprising first rule of May 21st this year, but the Calistoga Half maintain his winning streak in the Clash of helmet laws?” and “what about this Mile isn’t on the schedule. middleweight sporty-bike’s . This year’s rally was a test for me, in that we aren’t taken helmet laws the Titans. Sort of. The lights go down and Marin Speed Shop profiling business?” Not holding back, but These are people, people with feelings. two ways. First, I wanted to see if the seriously when a is don’t talk There are still two TBA California general manager Jim McLaughlin steps to also not necessarily going whole hog. And that’s all we have to say about that, We should be ashamed of ourselves, and organizers could get their shit together, significant part of about helmet races, one So- and one Nor-, and we’re the microphone. “There’s a lot of people in other than, “Hey, you should go to the Sac believe us, we are. For many reasons. and the second part was to see if we— This gave me pause, emphasized a few our public voice laws. What I really hoping that the ‘Stogie will fill here, that’s awesome,” he says. “We brought Mile on May 21st.” CityBike, non-bikers, whoever we is— days later when Senior Editor and staff is making idiotic am saying is could get other riders to show up. photographer Bob Stokstad opined over statements about that if you feel • Porting • Polishing • coffee that I’d sounded as if I was “trying the effectiveness the need to It was a failure on both counts. not to alienate my constituents.” of helmets, about say things like Organizationally, the 2016 rally was pretty Cylinder Head our right to ride Photo: Max Klein “there’s no proof abysmal. There were flyers with incorrect CityBike’s official position on helmet laws without a helmet. that helmets Specialists dates, a complete dearth of available in recent years has been, wear a fucking prevent injury,” Second, we the people (on information online, speakers were still helmet. We’ve skirted the issue by basically or “helmets hurt In Business Since 1978 bikes) have limited resources, limited being confirmed days before the event avoiding the question. But last issue, I more than they help,” please keep that shit time to devote to motorcycle rights and All Makes (they even asked me to speak), and a host gave official notice (“United States Of to yourself. Have that conversation with issues and education, and we piss away too All Models of other issues that made it damn hard to ‘Fication” – Pit Stops, February 2016) your cat, or your goat, or a tree, or other much of this time railing against The Man All Years be successful in the second test: getting that CityBike has run out of patience members of BOLT. people to show up. with excuses for non-involvement, and and his desire to keep us from scraping off I’m going to apply that same standard to the tops of our heads at 80 MPH. We’ve got real motorcycle issues—rights, It rained, and most of the riders that myself. even—to work on here in California, and The AMA is often accused of putting too weren’t scared of getting a little wet were make no mistake, helmet laws are not much efforts into fighting helmet laws. too busy coming up with reasons not to It’s time to clear the air on helmet laws, to an issue. That conversation is over. Let’s ENGINE DYNAMICS, LLC That’s not the case in California, but the go check it out for themselves: that’s not stop dancing around that question. concentrate on things we can actually Phone 707-763-7519 my crowd, they don’t represent me, I don’t noises the AMA makes about helmets Fax 707-763-3759 First, fighting helmet laws, and the things influence today. • Valve Seat & Guide Replacement • Race Prep • www.enginedynamics.com • Flow Bench Testing • Competition Valve Jobs • have a Harley. This lack of “non-biker” in other states arguably meets both of we say in that process, makes us look like these criteria. I’m an AMA member, and And please, wear a fucking helmet. 2040 Petaluma Blvd. N.Petaluma, CA 94952 fucking idiots. The rest of the population,

March 2016 | 6 | CityBike.com March 2016 | 7 | CityBike.com going, it revs smoothly, much to the relief of years. This same trophy was presented to standard Oakland stuff. If you haven’t narrating the action in an east coast-y tough town, and we EPS lined. With a polycarbonate shell, the everyone involved in the project. Dave himself in2014. heard about their fight parties, here’s the accent, periodically telling people he was a are a motorcycle New Stuff MX-9 weighs in at just 3 pounds, 6 ounces. scoop: they have an actual boxing ring at filmmaker. club.” After appearing at the One Show in The trophy reads: “Donated after the Bell MX-9 Adventure: The The peak, or bill, or whatever we’re calling their clubhouse. Portland, the bike is slated for display at AFM’s 50th Anniversary by Jim and Jason The fights kicked off right away—no He said I should talk Perfect Entry-Level Dual-Sport it now has two positions and is removable. Ducati Island during Moto GP in Texas. Manning, AFM road racing enthusiasts, in Legit. nonsense. The top hat came off predictably to Trevor, President Helmet? The first position offers almost no more memory of Ivan quickly, but fortunately, the gloves did not. and Founder sun protection than the bare helmet; the - Sam Devine I’d heard the Rats were going to host a Wagar, editor The first couple fights were reasonably (“Ahhh… it was a By Sam Devine tip of the peak shades about the same area Competition was tough this year in the ‘Gentrifiers vs. Locals’ fight night. Then of Cycle World. matched, with good-natured cheering and bunch of us together, his affordable, mid-weight helmet as the edge of the viewport. This setting We covered the Formulat Beard class. I heard that the gentrifiers would have Originally jeering from the crowd, but then there was but I’m one of the few has some good features that make would be good for midday riding through Leggera NCR back to wear a top hat and monocle, and I was in June 2010— presented a Superman punch, landed on a dude that I that’s still around. it great for camping, kicking about brush or light rain. The forward position sold—it was high time for CityBike to head check it out on our to Mike later found out was a journalist (Jesus, who I’ll take founder.”) Tin the dirt and twisting through the trees offers more coverage and is better for riding to the clubhouse and check it out. back issues page: Hailwood, let that guy in?). A bit later, there was some of the East Bay Rats at sunset or rise. And with some some into the sunset or sunrise. CityBike.com/ who received it The rules were simple: if you’ve lived in the girl-on-girl action two women fought, and and ask him the same good chiseled angles and decent graphic Photo: Surj Gish Heading east on Highway 24, I didn’t back-issues.html. from Soichiro Bay Area for less than 5 years—10 years finished up with a sweaty exhausted hug question, so I did. options, it looks tough. You also get Bell’s experience any major resistance from Honda for if you work in tech—you’re a gentrifier. after one of the more intense matches. kids. Anybody comes to those things, and years of experience in making helmets, “You know, we didn’t start off with the the bill while turning my head to check AFM Awards winning a If not, you’re a local. Overly simplistic goddamn, anybody fights.” adding peace of mind. If you should I don’t want to say the level of hand-to-hand fight stuff… we were all bouncers and blind spots. Looking skyward, there was Banquet Japanese Grand criteria? Sure, but what can you do? have a warranty issue, you won’t have a combat was tame—but no one got knocked knuckleheads. It just kinda stuck with us.” It’s an accurate description of the certainly more pressure pulling my head Demand a birth problem tracking them down, let alone This past January out or really bloodied up; that is, until a environment. I’m a maladjusted, anti-social back, but even at 70 MPH, it’s manageable. certificates, work “It is good for us, you know… we make our brought the return stout, muscular, bald-headed guy hit his jerk, and even I felt comfortable and relaxed Everyone’s neck muscles are history and proof prospects fight three times in the ring over of the annual Photos: Karen De Jager head on something (besides his opponent’s at the Gentrifiers vs. Locals fight night. of residence for the year they’re prospecting. It lets us see AFM awards fist) after being knocked partially out of It sounds crazy, but the vibes were good the last decade? what’s inside them, what makes them tick. banquet, where Prix race in the the ring, and ended up with a weird super- all around. I saw zero mean-mugging, no Motorcycles do that also, but fighting does racers and fans alike gathered to celebrate early 1960’s.” It Master of swollen scratch on his forehead that looked acting hard, no trouble at all… except for CityBike it too. I think that people that are attracted our very own Max Klein’s amazing race stays with the Puppets Angelica like a giant leech. He was kinda stumbling the cops driving back and forth out front. photography from last year’s races. recipient until around in a daze, and turned to face the and I arrived at Trevor also the time he (or side of the ring I was on. Everyone gasped: Max spent days, nay, weeks going through the clubhouse pointed out that she) decides “Oh shit!” 89,722 photos that had been separated just before the fighting, arguably it’s time to pass into 1,657 folders. These spectacular fights started, and even more than on to the next I think he was a gentrifier, but honestly it photos were carefully narrowed down motorcycling, worthy person was hard to tell to just 542 top shots—a painstakingly isn’t a fabricated, within the which side the difficult job considering that every photo orchestrated AFM. combatants were is a perfect depiction of the thrill that is on once the top experience—at club racing. Our on-site observer (Max’s hat came off. I least not the way lovely and tolerant wife) reported that only Congratulations to the Top 10 for 2015: it was already certainly didn’t see the Rats do it. You pretty packed 1 ½ bottles of scotch were harmed in this AFM#1 Joey Pascarella any Uber hoodies get in the ring, out back by arduous process. AFM #2 Cory Call waiting to get in you throw some the ring. The AFM #3 Sebastiao Ferreira the ring. punches, you take All Max’s work resulted in each photo crowd was AFM#4 Chris Siglin some punches. Photo: Max Klein being enjoyed on-screen at the banquet very diverse— I talked to Tim AFM#5 Steve Metz Photo: Surj Gish On your own. for approximately 1.7 seconds. Dinners various clubs from the Rats AFM #6 Deion Campbell remembering went cold as every eye in the room focused from around afterward, who “They jump AFM#7 Ralph Staropoli to motorcycles and motorcycle clubs are the name of the manufacturer. ahead; mouths that should have been the Bay and often referees in the ring, and feel something real… If different AFM#8 Sam Romick struggling with some demons and boxing is chewing, instead cheered for each of those beyond were fights, and asked someone hasn’t ridden a motorcycle, they The foam liner is easily removable with though, so experiment and be wary of a AFM#9 Austin Guinn a great way to deal with it in a healthy way.” 2015 snapshots. present, along him how the might have never endangered their life in plenty of channels to let sweat escape. relative airspeed that you find painful and AFM#10 Andrew Lee any way.” There are large cavities by the ears for dangerous. But should you find a threshold The ceremony announcing the top racers with a mix of idea came about, I wondered whether the movie or the fights postulating it was born of frustration with further cooling and recesses suitable for a that makes you uncomfortable, you can of 2015 went faster than Cory Call on one - An DeYoung hipsters, punkers, flat-brimmers, and a at the club came first. Trevor said the Rats You can pay someone to guide you around rising rents, home prices, and increasing Bluetooth device. The view port is massive simply take of the flexible peak, unlike wheel in the hot pits. Things slowed down bunch of the other usual Bay Area varietals, beat Brad Pitt to the punch. Africa on a $20,000 motorcycle, but you Don’t Call It A Fight Club: eastward migration of the blatant and a little bug-eyed, giving it a profile a number of dual-sport helmets in this only once: the room went silent as Dave including some middle-aged women that can’t pay someone to hold your hand in the out-of-touch entitlement and general “You know… before the movie came out, similar to the Icon Variant, but for about a price bracket. The face shield is also easily Stanton presented the 2015 Hailwood Gentrifiers vs. Locals looked like they might be on a Piedmont ring at the East Bay Rats clubhouse. gardening club field trip. There was even douchebaggery that seems to have almost ’96 or ’97. When we started, we were just hundred dollars less. The cheek pads don’t removable for use with goggles. Trophy to Tom Dorsey, who’s been racing The East Bay Rats have a reputation ‘round doing submission grappling, some stand-up have emergency removal tabs but they are and supporting the AFM for more than 20 the Bay. Flaming tires, fight nights... a dude shooting video on his phone, completely replaced the smart-funky-cool - Surj Gish culture of San Francisco. fights… I just didn’t think people would want to box each other. I didn’t think He agreed: “It’s just getting to be where they’d jump in the ring and go for it. I We stock a large selection none of us can even afford to live here. But bought some boxing gloves on a whim for ON SALE NOW it’s not just us. I think that more and more of heavy duty jackets , something else and we had them at a party, people you talk to are very, very angry and people just started doing it, and that pants, chaps, & bags. $359 Only $149! about it. You get to the extremes where was that.” Custom garments Johnson Leathers Textile Jacket people are doing crazy shit like Occupy, setting up camps, throwing bricks through He also says having structured, contained and accessories. with Force eld Body Armour bank buildings… but regardless of where fights at biker parties changes the vibe for In Stock Only you are on the spectrum, a lot of people the better: “It’s been amazing how chill the We repair, alter and fight parties are. All the violence, or just the clean leather products. Carried in San Francisco by have very raw emotions for it. I think what the East Bay Rats have always tried to do is edge of a normal party is gone, because the SF Moto and in to give people a moderately healthy way to violence has been taken care of.” Our leathers are San Jose by Road Rider. guaranteed against get rid of some of that angst in a controlled Tim concurred. “The biggest thing about Repair & Service We Ship Worldwide defect for life. We make custom 1 & 2 piece leathers! environment.” our parties… you go to other bike clubs Maybe you’re wondering how the Rats for parties and shit, and even for me, it’s came to be a fighting (motorcycle) club, not really a whole lot of fun, it’s not a very and why. Tim basically characterized it as welcoming atmosphere. Everybody’s swinging their dicks around.” 1833 Polk St. (@ Jackson) San Francisco - johnsonleather.com training, saying simply, “It’s less so now, but Oakland is a tough town. Especially CALL US FIRST! “Our parties… we have lots of bike clubs (800) 730-7722 • (415) 775-7393 wearing a patch on your back, you will show up, all the big bike clubs from the area fight. You’ll do everything you can to avoid show up. But something that no other bike Salvaged & New Parts! Force eld Body Armour, e worlds fighting, but you will fight, and you want club has been able to pull off is being able leading “So armour technology” to win. We all end up trying to be pleasant to appeal to average people. We have tons Tue–Fri 10–6 Sat 9–5 Body protection system specialists. people to be around and good guys, and of fuckin’ hipsters and weirdos and college relate nicely to people, but Oakland’s a

March 2016 | 8 | CityBike.com March 2016 | 9 | CityBike.com seemingly almost impossible to achieve. something that can’t move, with a chain The Ionus 1190 doesn’t have quite that cut by the bulk of that yellow housing. Bikes are spontaneously re-homed, that can’t be cut. level of sophistication, but what it does Remember, hardened steel all around. converted to headlight-less stunt wrecks, have is massive, cast-iron balls. Simple, We’re using the word chain because cables Our Ionus was the 150 cm variant (59”) or spirited away to be disassembled, their brutish, and serious, it offers 59 inches of are out. Some of those things are so flimsy and there’s a shorter (read: lighter) 120 parts scattered via Craigslist and less- security by 11 mm square chain, all of it that the bigger rats in East Oakland can cm (47”) version as well. Both include digital avenues—all this in spite of our hardened steel. chew through ‘em and ride away on your 2 keys and a code card for easy ordering best efforts. One of my Oakland neighbors precious. That chain is wrapped of additional keys and can be ordered has had two DR650s stolen in a row, And if in a fabric sleeve to keep keyed-alike to other ABUS locks, so if you the replacement right after the original. your chain it from scratching your plan ahead, you could have multiple bike My own luck has been better, but not looks like bike, but be warned— locks with the same key, to prevent janitor for lack of trying on my part: I’ve twice something this thing is heavy keyring syndrome. forgotten the keys to my R1200R in one from a enough to mess up of the sidecase locks, essentially leaving So we’ve established that the Ionus (should swingset, it’s anything pretty if it’s it parked on the streets of San Francisco really be ) is heavy duty, and time for an got any momentum, I Own YOU with a “steal me already” sign on it. I guess just plain heavy. That incredible bulk upgrade. fabric sleeve or no. I my utilitarianizing of the bike has paid off is really the only downside—it’s a pain guessed its weight as Photos: Allison Klein by making it an unattractive target—in And have we in the ass to lug around. If you wrap it Photos: Allison Klein “about the same as a addition to generally unattractive. got an upgrade around your midsection like some fixie- TTR125—the big The helmet is pretty well vented, and before I had my first bike. I have worn The SR6 Cargo Pants are the mid level to wait until spring for the warm weather for you. ABUS, riding beard farmer, it’s gonna bang into The best way to keep a bike safe is a private wheel one,” but ABUS the chin vent has a cleanable foam filter, jeans from a couple of brands that sing the in the Bull-it arsenal and are rated at to hit (although February’s been strangely a German your tank, and unless you’re going full garage, which in the city will run you your (and our scale) says making it it great for dusty summer riding. praises of aramid fibers such as Kevlar, but 6.26 seconds of abrasion resistance. 6.26 June-ish), but the Bull-it Cargos passed the company steampunk and a shitty-looking fuel one of your first-born’s toes per month. it weighs just a touch want One problem with the vents, however—the I never really felt all that comfortable— seconds might not sound like a long time, cold and wet tests. known for its tank, you’re going to be bummed about No kids? Ok, how about $300 or more per over 9 pounds. top vents have one setting: open. Not a physically or mentally—in them. so we hired Loris Baz and asked him to high-quality how the chain slowly, steadily indents the They are noticeably heavier than some month for a shared garage, much more mid-winter plus, even here in mostly-sunny crash a MotoGP bike to put things into locks, makes Still pretty hefty, and rear of your tank at every stoplight. But if The aramid-infused offerings either did not other moto jeans I’ve worn—when I first common in SF, and “economical.” Of California. The forehead vents also don’t perspective. Not really, but Loris did crash a variety of burly enough to give you’ve got a place to stow it—luggage, or breathe well, had shitty armor placement, picked them up I was afraid that they would course, then you’re susceptible to some Photo: Surj Gish have any filter or screen, which may make recently on the front straight of Sepang heavy-duty disc potential thieves a rack to wrap it around, you’ll be good. were too short, or were too baggy. Some be overly bulky. Once I put them on I other idiot leaving the door open. Many for a dusty dome. And while the chin at 180 mph and thanks to technology we locks, chains, second thoughts like “I Just don’t put it too far back—it’s enough managed to be all of the above. In my best quickly got used to the weight, and the bulk bikes live their lives ignominiously on the vent is adjustable, the chin guard is so far know he slid for 6.6 seconds. Thanks, and anchors, to help keep your bike, can probably find another bike to steal, say, weight that you’ll feel it in your topcase. infomercial announcer voice, “There’s got is displaced in a manner that gives them a streets, with nothing to protect them from forward that it’s hard to tell whether the air Loris. Remind me to buy you a beer if we well… yours. I first laid hands on an ABUS right over here.” to be a better way!” stylish, not-too-baggy look. The 34 longs the elements and roving crackheads other I hear you: “Sounds good, but so much is coming through the vent or through the ever meet. I am no rocket surgeon, but I am lock when a friend gave me one of their fit true to size with the extra length being a than perhaps a flimsy bike cover. The mechanism is stupid-simple—insert money for a piece of chain and a lock!” bottom of the helmet, not to mention two Enter Bull-it, with their Covec-lined jeans. guessing that the type of riding that most Titalium padlocks. In spite of padlocks must for my 34-inch inseam. the key and turn it, duh—but smart in That’s true, Shirley, but consider this—it’s non-adjustable vents near the jaw line. This I’ve been wearing their SR6 Cargo Pants people will be doing in a pair of SR6 pants So we resort to immobilizers like disc being mundane necessities, the what’s- how it protects the junction of the chain surely less than your insurance deductible, makes the MX-9 Adventure more or less a in a 34 long. I selected the cargo style for will not involve getting off at 180 MPH. So I do have a couple of complaints. First, locks, which like electronic kill switches it-who’s-ium lock impressed me—these and lock. The last link slides inside that so unless you’re like me—just for three-season helmet here in the Bay Area. overall utility, but if that’s not your cup of I think the combination of Covec and the knee armor is not included. There are requiring the presence of a fancy key to guys have been making locks since 1924, waiting yellow housing, and when locked, a finger someone to steal your bike so you have an tea, the SR6 line offers several other styles triple stitched (in key areas) construction slots for it, and those slots held some D3O start the bike, are only so effective. It turns and it shows. The mechanism is refined, If you get caught in a cold snap wearing the goes through the link and holds it in there. excuse to buy a new one—it’ll be money to choose from, including a bunch of types should hold up well if things go south in armor that I had lying around snuggly out a quick crew can easily pick up your smooth… so much so that I’d sit at my MX-9, consider taping the head-vents shut I hesitate to use the word finger, because well spent. of jeans, chinos, and even zip-off cargo any of my typical street riding bike and toss it in a van, even if the front desk, on the phone, locking and unlocking from the inside with electrical tape. What’s that sounds puny—but think of the Hulk’s pants that turn into shorts. situations. wheel can’t turn. So the most reliable it over and over, entranced by the precision. that you say? You don’t have any electrical finger, and we’ll be on the same page. In $179.99. Get more information and find out solution is to chain your beloved bike to MobileSecurity.Abus.com tape on you? Well, stop at a gas station and On paper, comparing Covec to aramids Nobody plans on crashing, any case, that finger is hidden from being where to buy at . buy that little ring-finger sized roll they sell is like pitting your favorite model of although I know a few people that and throw it in a jacket pocket. motorcycle from 2014 against its 2016 hit the deck on such a regular equivalent. Nothing is really wrong with basis you’d think they were Bottom line, at $200, Bell’s MX-9 either, but the manufacturer has probably hearing air raid sirens along with Adventure is a reasonably-priced dual-sport made some impressive upgrades to go their internal voices. But when helmet that is perfect for a first-time rider along with those bold new graphics. the average rider throws a leg or someone that wants to try out a peaked over for an average ride, arriving helmet. It would also be a great choice for a Compared to aramids, the Covec material unscathed is the expected dirt-biking that’s getting into street riding. in the SR6 pants has a higher abrasion outcome. Bull-it thought of that Other than the single option venting, it’s resistance, cut resistance, is more chemical as well, and made some pretty hard to find a better dual-sport at this price. resistant, and will hold up to being folded damn comfy pants. longer. That last bit is important if you MSRP $189.95 - $199.95 ($199.95 as ever bend your knees while riding… or Bull-it jeans are a three- tested, of course—fancy colors cost more!) wash your pants. Aramids do have a higher season option, designed to Get more info and find out where to buy at melting point than Covec, but honestly repel heat, cold, and water, BellHelmets.com. if things get above Covec’s melting point not just pavement. I’ve worn Bull-it SR6 Cargo Pants of 575 degrees Fahrenheit in any of your mine into the forties up to Photo: Surj Gish motorcycle activities… well, CityBike the upper sixties, and even By Max Klein wants to do a story on you. in a light rain. I was equally I’m an ATGATT dude. I am so ATGATT comfortable in all situations. We’ll have yet comfortably in the correct that I had my first set of gear a full month spots, unlike some other pants I have worn that were apparently created by designers that failed anatomy. Not a deal breaker, but CBR500R for a bit over two hundred bucks, Bull-it could have included something. The Best of Both Worlds 275 8th Street, San Francisco, CA 94103 Second, the narrow leg openings will not go over my Alpinestars Scout boots. They do fit over both my Dainese race boots and some 7-year old Dainese waterproof numbers I have. I can live with that, but I’ll still complain. $209.95. Learn more and find out where to get a pair (of pants) at Bull-It.com. Serious Security: ABUS Ionus OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 1190 By Surj Gish www.SFmoto.com honda.com: ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET, EYE PROTECTION AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING. NEVER RIDE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DRUGS OR ALCOHOL, AND NEVER USE THE STREET AS A RACE TRACK. OBEY THE LAW Motorcycle security is important here 415-255-3132 AND READ THE OWNER’S MANUAL THOROUHLY. For rider trainging information or to locate a rider training course near you, call the Motorcycle Safety Foundation at 800-446-9227 in the Bay Area, and at the same time, March 2016 | 10 | CityBike.com March 2016 | 11 | CityBike.com

14th. General admission tickets are $75. SignatureEvents.Peninsula.com/en/ AFM Season Motorcycle/Motorcycle.html The AFM has Two Sides Of Sexy May 21-22, 2016: Sheetiron 300 released its 2016 Illustration by Mr. Jensen Dualsport (Stonyford, CA) schedule. If you like racing, put The Sheetiron is a two-day, non- I’m Too Sexy For My Gear. these dates on your these panels come with various prints, body sensory experience that happens competitive, ride hosted by the Oakland So Sexy It Hurts (When I Fall calendar! Get more flames, skulls, all super bad ass. Flames are when you do ride, and the fact that it all Motorcycle Club. Starts in Stonyford, Down) details at afmracing.org/schedule. totally skid-proof, right? happens with your legs wrapped around breaks for the night in Fort Bragg, By An DeYoung something full of power… Some might see Happily, there was no shortage of female ends up back in Stonyford. Riders of Round 1: March 19-20 that as a bit exciting, no?” he MIC survey results showing an all abilities are welcomed. Applications Buttonwillow riders commenting and calling bullshit in increase in motorcycle ownership response to both articles. Yes, they do. But another area motorman, will be accepted starting April 1st. Round 2: April 30-May 1 by women nationwide (“Higher Zeh, urged me to consider that there was OaklandMotorcycleClub.camp9.org/ Sonoma I get that there will always be riders, male TViz?” – February 2016) was important nothing inherently alluring about two event-2147772 and female, that don’t give a shit about gear, Round 3: May 28-29 news, and understandably so. wheelers. May 21, 2016: Hanford Vintage Thunderhill with that “I wear what I want” attitude. You Motorcycle Rally (Kings Fairground, More locally, the number of licensed riders go girl, but I don’t want to see any more “I think there’s a full spectrum of 801 South 10th Ave Hanford, CA 93232) Round 4: June 25-26 in California has grown by about 2% every GoFundMe pages asking for help paying motorcycle riders from delicate flowers Thunderhill year, according to California DMV stats. those hospital bills. to guys who ride all the way from here to Head to the 48th annual Hanford for Round 5: September 3-4 In 2014 the number of licensed riders was Tierra del Fuego in the rain with one leg.” Photo: Steve Synder 150+ vendors of fun at one of California’s The rest of us women are speaking up. Sonoma 1,391,454. 159,548 of those are women, premier vintage motorcycle events. so in California, we’re at 11.5%—actually Hopefully, as more women riders raise I asked him, then, why it sticks in the public Round 6: October 1-2 ClassicCycleEvents.com below the 14% share of ridership the MIC their voices, as more women ride, the imagination as something denoting Ride to The Quail With CityBike! Thunderhill May 21, 2016: Sacramento Mile (Cal trumpeted from the rooftops. brands pushing this garbage gear will get courage, rebellion, and good taste, if If you’re thinking of riding to The Quail, but don’t want to go alone, why not go Expo, Sacramento, CA) Round 7: October 22-23 a clue. I don’t expect that we’ll have the you want to get a date. with us! We’ll meet at Helimot (45277 Fremont Blvd #7, Fremont) first thing in That leaves 1,231,906 licensed male riders. same selection as the guys anytime soon, Buttonwillow “I’m trying really hard not to the morning, on May 14th, where we’ll have coffee and pastries with Helmut and AMA GNC flat track action in The Sac. So I posed a question to the guys I know: but hopefully as our numbers grow, we’ll Take the river road to Sacramento to say the media.” But obviously Linda. We’ll head out for The Lodge at 8 AM. July 11-16, 2016: International Norton “How hard is it for you to find gear that get a little more parity in selection and avoid the drone of 80. There’ll even be fits?” What I heard was pretty much the Zeh was trying to say, the media is Route and details are TBD, as usual. Stay tuned to our Facebook page for more Owners Association (Plumas-Sierra protection. free motorbike parking! Tickets start at same complaints about gear that I’ve heard responsible for this association, especially details: facebook.com/CityBikeMag County Fairgrounds, Quincy, CA) $29; reserved grandstand seats are $60. from women, aside from the one guy that An is CityBike’s one-woman Sacramento fashion media. Still, today, you’ll find SactoMile.com The Northern California Norton Owners mentioned needing more room for his sack. operation, and our deep-cover operative in the articles promoting leather jackets (without bring in your old helmet and get 15% off a Club (NCNOC) will host the 41st weird world of the Ducatisti. armor) and denim (good old-fashioned EVENTS June 20, 2016: Ride To Work Day new lid. SantaRosaBMW.com gathering of the INOA July 11th-16th in The difference: guys often said that if one jeans, preferably ripped) as a surefire March 2016 (Everywhere, damnit!) Get Sexy! Love, Your Turd April 8-10, 2016: California Nitro Quincy. The fairgrounds venue offers brand didn’t fit, they’d try another, or a way to lure the lust of your favorite 2nd Sunday of each month: Santa Cruz Ride to work on the 25th annual Ride National Hillclimb (Carnegie SVRA, tent camping, plenty of bathrooms and different style. They have the option to By Michele Appel manifestation of humanity. Club Monthly Group Ride To Work Day (and hopefully some clean showers. There’ll be the usual rides, shop around. 18600 Corral Hollow Rd, Tracy, CA) For the better part of their history, But Zeh conceded, like every rider (Fin’s Coffee, 1104 Ocean Street, Santa other days too) to help increase public food, coffee, beer, rally shirts, Norton th It’s no surprise that women don’t have motorcycles and riders have been linked to and non-rider I interviewed, male or Cruz, CA 95060) The 29 annual Nitro, and opening and governmental awareness about the tech sessions, speakers, field events, and access to a similar breadth of options—we sex appeal. female:“It’s different if we’re talking about Meet at 11:00 AM. Route depends on who event of the 2016 NAHA Pro Hillclimb benefits of moto-commuting and riding even live music. NortonRally.com/inoa- only account for 11.5% of total riders in the women.” Apparently women motorcyclists shows, the weather, and how much time Series, happens at Carnegie April 8-10. in general. Stay tuned for some kind of rally-2016 Since I started riding, I’ve wondered why. state. I can only assume it’s the same across are still such a rare and special breed, folks have. Rides will be cancelled due SkipsPromotions.com contest from your friends here at CityBike. The riders I know are social misfits who July 16, 2016: OMC Three Bridge Run the country. we get immediate cred. That’s both to rain. SantaCruzScooterClub.com / April 24, 2016: Pacific Coast Dream RideToWork.org like to mess with things and go fast, not (OMC Clubhouse, Oakland, CA) exhilarating and problematic, but I haven’t facebook.com/SantaCruzScooterClub Machines (Half Moon Bay Airport, Half A few brands, like Aerostich, have long don costumes and cruise main street. But, June 25-26, 2016: Bungee Brent’s space to indulge in that discussion here. Annual poker run through SF and Marin offered serious gear for women, and a few as I sped along the highway pondering 3rd Sunday of each month: Northern Moon Bay, CA, 94019) Backroad Bash (Long Barn, CA) then back to the OMC clubhouse for more brands do seem to be coming around, this question, feeling the full force of the California National “The Coolest Show on Earth” runs The CityBike Wrecking Crew has gone to To make my quest for anthropological prizes, music, and dancing. There’s a new slowly. Unfortunately, other brands still environment and history bearing down on Owners Club Breakfast (Putah Creek from 10 AM to 4 PM at the Half Moon the Backroad Bash two years in a row, and wisdom even messier, a San alternate southern route this year as well. market “riding gear” to women as if we’re me, I couldn’t write off the myth. defy logic and societal expectations where Cafe, 1 Main St, Winters, CA 95694) Bay Airport, just 20 miles south of its on of our favorite events. We’ll be there Francisco moto-salesman OaklandMotorcycleClub.camp9.org/ stereotypical bikini models, only interested safety and gender roles are considered. We San Francisco. DreamMachines. this year, and you should be too. Seriously. If the dictionary is anything to go by, sexy challenged me to write about “how guys MGNOC members and interested Guzzi event-2147776 in looking sexy on a bike. who ride scooters get laid more often clearly put ourselves more at risk on two MiramarEvents.com/index.php OaklandMotorcycleClub.camp9.org/ denotes something arousing, provocative, riders meet at 9:00 AM for breakfast than guys who ride Ducatis.” He called wheels, but we do it any way. Why? Because events Want your event in our calendar? Send a I recently read an article online on how racy and even voluptuous. My motorcycle and good times. More information: May 14, 2016: The Quail Motorcycle me back later and clarified that it’s not the it makes us feel alive, brave, independent, note to [email protected] with details women’s gear is making a “huge splash” in is certainly all those things, and I contact Northern California MGNOC Gathering (Quail Lodge & Golf Club, July 7-9, 2016: Reno Rendezvous expensive machinery, but the strut. “Just be skilled and frankly, badass.” like who, what, when, where, why and we’ll motorcycle communities, coming out in personally have been accused of at least a Representative, Don Van Zandt at 8000 Valley Greens Drive, Carmel, CA (Grand Sierra Resort, 2500 East Second comfortable with yourself and confident on add it. Maybe. If it’s something cool. Send all colors, shapes and styles to fill our every couple. Thank you, friends, for the titillating 707.557.5199. 93923) St, Reno, NV) your turd.” For someone whose bikes and your stuff early—more notice is better. desire! Could someone tell me where this conversation. Now, to prove it: the more we March 12, 2016: Santa Rosa BMW- The 8th annual Motorcycle Gathering Since my experience does not equate to a have been so crudely called, this warmed The Gold Wing Road Riders Association magical gear store is? ride, the more these feelings become facts. Triumph Spring Open House (800 celebrate the 40th anniversary of hosts this thing, but you don’t have to be terribly scientific finding, I asked around. my heart. American Way, Windsor, CA, 95492) Superbike and feature pre-1916 on a ‘Wing to attend. Great riding—street “Feeling sexy and confident is what every “Is motorcycling sexy?” The answers Michele Appel likes to make stories, tell left me temporarily more confused. A la In her eloquent testament, Hawthorne Sure to be loads of fun—don’t miss. BBQ , motorcycles, BMW classics, along with and dirt—and proper gambling, too. Ride woman wants,” the article proclaimed, stories, and ride on two wheels. You can find [email protected] Kinsey’s research on sexual behavior in eased my troubled mind: “Motorcyclists tire plugging clinic, RawHyde Adventures the usual categories such as Japanese, up for a weekend in the Biggest Little Sin while pushing buckle boots with 3” heels. her almost anywhere, doing so. PO Box 18783 1950s America, and Facebook relationship presentation, slow races against the CHP, British, Italian, competition bikes, and City in the world. RenoRendezvous.org Oakland, CA 94619 OK, I’ll admit that some of the vertically profile points: it’s complicated. raffle, discounts and helmet exchange: more. 10 AM to 4 PM on Saturday, May challenged ladies might need a little heel DAYTONA BOOTS to reach the ground, but really? The article Most riders said yes to my question, but went on, about all the colors of the rainbow 1st Sunday of each month: North Bay 4th Monday of each month: Sacramento with caveats. Isaac Sparling put it in timely Ducati Bike Nights! available to us—we can match our gloves terms: “Being a motorcyclist doesn’t earn All brands and models of motorcycles are welcome. Get 6:30 to 9:30 PM at Benissimo, 18 Tamalpais Dr, Corte 6:00 to 10:00 PM at Hot Italian, 1627 16th Street, to our jackets, and even our helmets! you an immediate swipe-right. But it’s more information at NorCalDoc.com. Madera. Sacramento. More information: 916.444.3000. Yay! More pink swirly shit! definitely a good thing.” 1st Monday of each month: Mill Valley 2nd Monday of each month: South Bay 4th Monday of each month: Mid-Peninsula Another article announced a pair of riding Risa Stroebel said, “I once walked into a 6:00 to 10:00 PM at The Cantina, 651 E. Blithedale 6:00 to 10:00 PM at Pizza Antica, 334 Santana Row, 5:00 to 10:00 PM at Sixto’s Cantina, 1448 Burlingame. Boot PRICES jeans: “Why you should wear these jeans phone pole checking out a hot guy on an Ave, Mill Valley. More information: 415.378.8317. #1065 San Jose. More information: 408.557.8373. More information: 650.342.7600. are Upside on your motorcycle instead of your Levis.” XR. But, it’s not automatic, you know?” 1st Wednesday of each month: San Francisco Ducati 2nd Tuesday of each month: East Bay 4th Friday of each month: Concord Cool, I thought—then I read how these 2016 Down, too! V.M. Hawthorne, creator of Never Ride Bike Night jeans are not meant to compete with Tuono 1100 Factory ABS 6:30 PM till whenever at Pizza Antica, 3600 Mt Diablo 6:00 to 10:00 PM at Lazy Dog Café, 1961 Diamond Bitch (NeverRideBitch.com), heartily Kevlar-lined, actual riding jeans, but are In stock NOW. $16,999 plus fees. 6:00 to 10:00 PM at Pier 23 Seafood Cafe, Pier 23, Blvd, Lafayette. More information: 925.299.0500. Blvd, Concord. More information: 925.849.1221. agreed, “Motorcycles are absolutely $419.95 instead made to be comfortable while $1,500 down, $299/month. The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94111. More 3rd Wednesday of each month: Emeryville 4th Saturday of each month: Novato something in the realm of sexy.” She Road Star GTX riding. information: 415.362.5125. was very convincing: “The physical 6:00 to 10:00 PM at Hot Italian, 5959 Shellmound 6:00 to 10:00 PM at Boca Pizzeria, 454 Ignacio Blvd, CALL 510.594.0789 HELIMOT Street, No. 75, Emeryville. More information: Novato. More information: 415.883.2302. Even better, they’ve got “patented comfort manifestations of danger, control, potential 45277 Fremont Blvd #7, Fremont CA loss of control, adventure, doing something 510-252-1509 510.652.9300. panels” inserted up the inseam of each leg © Group Americas, Inc. 2016. Aprilia ® is a U.S. and worldwide registered trademark of the Piaggio Group of companies. Obey local traffic safety laws and always wear a www.helimot.com to help the jean hug your curves. Of course, only some are capable of doing, the full helmet, appropriate eyewear and proper apparel.

March 2016 | 12 | CityBike.com March 2016 | 13 | CityBike.com at a United Federation Of Planets surplus All the Road Scholars commented on the front of the bail bonds shops down by the The Griso feels like a very large, long and the coolness would be gone, or at least concealed under all the crap that makes my sale. The rest of the bike is a work of art, rockin’ of the motor generated by twisting courthouse in Oakland. motorcycle when you’re pushing it around on a fairly long wheelbase with a torquey the throttle. It’s there, for sure, but it the garage or tiptoeing backward into a current daily rider so damn uncool—in This bike inspires troublemaker thoughts. motor. The bike is so Italian, in fact, that feels familiar to me as a guy whose daily curbside parking spot—actually feels spite of all that amazing utility. If I hadn’t read Moto Guzzi’s explanation when An rode it she had a hard time rider has a transverse-mounted twin of a heavier than the claimed 489 dry weight, of the name (“tough and fearless leader,” Better to leave it awesomely as-is, pull it keeping her bra on. She claims it was the different angle. Even if it’s a new sensation, which ought to equate to about 530 pounds character in famous Italian Literature, blah out of the garage on those free days, when bumps on 580, but we know the truth. The it’s easy to get used to. or so wet. And while the length doesn’t blah blah) I might have assumed is there’s time to cruise, to be a badass about Griso is a sexy beast. Griso really go away, the Griso is a classic “weight It rolls on sweet set of 17” Behr tubeless Italian for Wild One. town. disappears when underway” kinda bike. Unlike the majority of Italian machines spoked wheels, a 3.5 incher up front, 5.5” Thus went my internal dialog on what Perfect. that find their way into the garage of out back. The front wheel has a couple Which reminds me, we gotta find a new makes a motorcycle, what about CityBike’s World Headquarters, the Griso of floating 320 mm stainless steel discs badass way to say that. Seems like all these porky “How Much Did You Pay For a particular bike makes the rider feel like has no electronic aids, meaning that the attached to it, squeezed by radially- sons of bitches feel lighter when rolling a badass. The stereotypical American Your Bad Moto Guzzi?” rider is responsible for managing all 110 mounted Brembo 4-piston calipers. The these days. take on this is a Harley-Davidson, and By Max Klein horses and the 80 foot pounds of torque. I rear gets a single 282 mm disc and a the most recently incarnation seems to Anyway… the Griso will be a big, unruly found the power delivery to be hearty, but nameless 2-piston caliper. Music plays a pretty big part in my life. No require high, “fists in the air” handlebars. handful on really tight stuff, but it’s blissful I don’t play anything, and I couldn’t carry very easy to manage even in the rain. The Suspension is similarly nondescript: Interestingly, this carefully cultivated pose in sweepers, and surprisingly manageable a tune even if it had handles, but I am a long wheelbase and husky weight saw to upside-downers up front and a single shock of not caring—feet forward, hands up—is given its locomotive-esque 61” wheelbase. huge fan of all types of music. I grew up on that. in the rear, both adjustable for preload, decidedly ill-prepared for action. It’s most at home rumbling about town, the jazz and blues, discovered punk and metal My time on the bike was during a cold, wet, rebound and compression. Front travel cock of the walk. By contrast, the Griso puts you in a position somewhere after hip hop (the good stuff, week in January. The complete lack of wind is 120 mm, rear is 110 mm. In American, that is much more ready to get it on— There aren’t a lot of downsides, unless I’ll let you argue amongst yourselves as to protection and heated grips combined with that’s 4.7” up front, 4.3” out back. check out Sam’s take on the Griso below for you’re trying to make the bike be what that is). Somewhere along the way, mid-forties high temps made aimless riding The exhaust was the subject of much the steps to try out this position yourself, something it’s not. Yeah, there’s no the band Cake painted a picture of Moto for the sake of riding less appealing than discussion ‘round the CityBike water cooler minus an actual Griso. The result: you’re wind protection, but we shouldn’t be Guzzi as a prop for posing in a rock and roll usual, but I determined not to let mother (an old Galaxie 500 gas tank with a with a on what is essentially a muscular , complaining about that anyway—it’s not lifestyle. nature’s cold teat stop me from putting little spout inserted—supposedly someone but in a sporty riding position: feet up, but like Moto Guzzi showed us a picture of At first glance, the Griso ticked all the some miles behind me. cleaned it out before we started using it for back, bit of a forward lean. Bad to go. a Norge and then sent us a Griso, and we poser boxes. It was Italian, sexy, and has a The first leg of my journey was about 20 name that—once you look it up—instantly miles of freeway on the way to the Lake gets you +10 Cliff Clavin skill points. Berryessa area. The long wheelbase and From the spoked wheels up, the Griso is stout weight had the bike eating up freeway unmistakably Italian...well, except for the miles and despite a wind chill of just above exhaust which seems to have been bought zero, I barely noticed how cold I was…

Photo: Angelica Rubalcaba

By Surj Gish It’s a naked bike with a near-prehistoric Blech. I know… but I loved it. And now aqua). The thing is a dichotomy of moto- With that in mind, it’s hard to understand were all, “What?! Where’s the goddamn Photos by Angelica Rubalcaba mill, but it’s sure-as-shit no retro-naked that I’ve wasted your time with paragraphs design: on one hand, we’re supposed to why bikes like this (are there really fairing?” We’ll keep crying about the lack of & Jeff Ebner poser, and it won’t ask you to don an of hypotheses and horse shit, I’ll tell you hate big, heavy exhausts, and we do—we’re any others?) haven’t taken over as the heated grips though. open-faced helmet, goggles and perfectly why, and oh yeah, also what the bike is like. nothing if not obedient! But on the other discerning bad motherfucker’s bike of found myself warning the Road That locomotive wheelbase? It ain’t all disheveled beard to go for a spin. It’s Italian hand, the artsy, creative, right hemisphere- choice. Misplaced “patriotism” plays a role Scholars: “Listen, this thing doesn’t Max quotes from an old Cake song “Rock that long, really—at 5’1”, it’s about three near-exotica, but it’s not racy (in that sense, controlled one, most of us were struck in this, perhaps, but what else is it? have ABS or traction control.” Yeah, ‘n’ Roll Lifestyle” in his piece below, and inches longer than a Bonneville, just over anyway). with by the imposing presence of the Iit’s started raining in California again— the pertinent piece is the word bad. The Remember when I wrote last year about a one inch more than a Sportster Forty- thing. Gargantuan, crudely-styled cans are great for the drought, but not so great for A few people, struggling for comparisons, Griso is , in a George Thorogood’s “Bad lightbulb moment (“H-D H2O: Harley- Eight, but about an inch shorter than a bad one thing, but the Griso’s pipe is a whole passing around bikes that don’t belong to said “Uh… so it’s kinda like a Diavel, I To The Bone” kind of way, which puts us Davidson Ultra Limited” - April 2015) on Diavel, and shorter than the ‘nother. Love it or hate it, it’s impossible three inches us, what with the sloppy streets and mud guess?” But that bike is a crass, overdone, even further into those Wild Hogs-esque a peculiarly Kawasaki-colored Harley? Of aforementioned Ultra-Kawi-Limited. to ignore, and by the way, it sounds nice— everywhere. gauche-bag monstrosity in comparison, associations. Dammit. course you don’t, so here it is: grunty, growly and dark, but smooth and In reality, the only real downside is the almost a decade behind the Griso. The My warnings continued: “There’s no wind One component of those unfortunate melodious, like a well-dressed criminal suspension. Mid-4” travel numbers sound only Italian moto-marketing language that “The Ultra Limited had me splitting lanes, protection, like zero, and no heated grips.” comparisons is kinda-sorta founded in with a silver tongue. reasonable for a street bike, until you’ve really works is MV Agusta’s “motorcycle brappity-brapping, with the stereo at a very reality: the Griso is powered by a big disrespectful volume, at least as loud as the ridden in Oakland, or San Francisco, or Jesus. What are we, Crybaby Fair Weather art.” All in all, the Griso is a bold beauty, from V-Twin. It’s not a Big Twin; but rather a ridiculous yet-awesome green paint, and when just about anywhere in California outside Biker Magazine or something? That these satin paintwork to substantial headers to That’s a strong statement, but here’s why transverse-mounted, 90 degree 1151cc Rocket From The Crypt’s “Dick On A Dog” of 17-Mile Drive. That’s not really the statements are even part of the discussion elegant spoked wheels. it’s true. The Griso defies nearly all the four-valve, fuel-injected mill—pretty came on, it all made sense. I regressed to my Griso’s fault, but we put many differently- about new bikes is telling—ABS is a given preconceived notions of what a naked modern and refined for a motor so often I spent the bulk of my first ride fighting youth, cranking punk rock cassette tapes from sized riders on the Griso, and tweaked the these days, and traction control is nearly motorcycle ought to look like. Non- termed agricultural. That burly motor is mental contradictions, internally the shitty speakers in my shitty truck, attitude suspenders as best we could, and everyone there. standard shapes abound—look at that hooked to a six-speed tranny that sends its discussing what motorcycles are supposed on eleven. Get out of my way, motherfuckers. had the same question: “What did I do to Moto Guzzi’s long-running Griso doesn’t tank, the frame, and sweet Jesus, that 110 claimed ponies to the rear wheel by to be, what they are, what the Griso is… I’m on a bad boy (touring) bike.” deserve these constant spankings?” care what you think, whether you think its pipe… and yet it looks like a classical naked way of a shaft contained in a stout singled- and resisting the urge to do burnouts in The Griso lacks almost everything that Easily resolved with a few bucks and some got the necessary accoutrements. If your motorcycle. Not “classic” like a fat-tanked sided swingarm. makes a Harley a Harley, other than of aftermarket parts, of course—but it’s a bike-shopping criteria includes “must have BSA or a new Bonnie, but classical. Pure. course the V-Twin. But while it’s short on shame, especially since Guzzi tells us the ride-by-wire and built-in cruise control,” Dare I say, authentic? standard Ameri-cruiser-cana, it’s long on Griso’s namesake “naturally undertook all the Griso has just one thing to say to you, Aw shit. attitude and emotional connection. Here’s the most daring enterprises.” Presumably, and I must warn you, it involves a middle how it goes: that would include potholes. finger. What about that strange company I mentioned? Get your keyboards ready, Start it up, blip the throttle. Oh yeah, that I’ve shared some of my idiotic, unfair It’s an elemental machine, and its single- kids—I’m about to piss you off, in case feels just right… sounds good too. bike-testing criteria in the past, and the minded lack of purpose puts it in strange “authentic” didn’t quite do it. The Griso’s Griso fails my single bike daily rider company. More on that in a moment— Roll out. Smooth, but nice rumble. Rolls lack of marketing-defined purpose, test miserably. In spite of that, I spent a what I mean by “lack of purpose” is that, in on nice… deceptively quick—after all, combined with its stripped-down purity large portion of my time on it cooking a world of fragmented supposedly single- we’re talking about 110 ponies and 80 foot make it a perfect uh… recreational up schemes to make it work: certainly minded machines marketed to a particular pounds of torque. motorcycle, something that normally there must be a way to mount a topcase, style of dressing up and maybe even riding, makes me spit with disgust. You’ve perhaps and Moto Guzzi offers some “semi-rigid” with a corresponding assemblage of curated Stoplight. Split to the front… nice and seen Harley-Davidson’s various Sportsters (there’s a pill for that) sidecases. Adding storytelling, the Griso is a soft-spoken bad narrow. Stops firmly. Blip the throttle, even called “good little bar-hoppers” and similar heated grips is trivial. motherfucker of few words. It’s just here to though I know that’s kinda anti-social and bikes referred to as roustabouts, or good unnecessary. ride. Of course, when I got done with my round-towners. The Griso is perfect for heavy-handed daily rider-ing of the bike, that. Launch. Disappear. Photo: Jeff Ebner it’d be an ugly-ass, warty abomination, Photo: Jeff Ebner March 2016 | 14 | CityBike.com March 2016 | 15 | CityBike.com Kidding—I was freezing. The lack of wind many miles it can go before sputtering into around, check the go for ten times that, and there are scooters protection is a bit of an issue if you’re a year- immobility. I hadn’t, so I didn’t, and was place out, feigning in Bello Moto’s inventory that are priced at round rider like us, but I wasn’t going to let tempted to see just how far I could go, but disinterest. I’ve seen over $10,000. a cold snap stop me from enjoying my ride. the only thing worse than riding a 500+ plenty of old scooters. It’s buyer beware on Craigslist and eBay— pound motorcycle with no wind protection No big deal. When I couldn’t take the cold any more I there are scooters on the market that were in suddenly, actually-cold January is pulled into Turtle Rock for some of their Nope. Lasers, glitter restored in Vietnam with a blow torch, a pushing the same bike. world famous egg rolls. If you have never rainbows and unicorns soda can and some bubble gum. These been there before, Turtle Rock is a “locals To answer Cake’s question, you would cascaded out of that bikes can be hard for non-experts to spot, only” dive bar / general store located near have to plunk down about $13k for this roll-up door. Two steps until you’re riding down the street on one the intersection of 128 and Berryessa / cornerstone of your rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle. If in I lost the ability to and it breaks in half. Some are good enough Knoxville road. Patrons are known to tack you’re a year-round rider (and you should form words. that experts have a hard time identifying money to the ceiling and the walls, and be!), plan on wearing a warm layer under them without disassembly. Bello Moto Xavier led us through periodically the owner of the place pulls your black leather jacket, over the rock ‘n’ ended up with one of these—it sits on the cars downstairs, all the cash down and donates it to UCSF roll t-shirt that proves you were there, that display, a warning to others, not for sale. through the workshop Children’s Hospital for cancer research. you heard of them first. and up the stairs, Xavier tells us Bello Moto’s customers are Pretty awesome. Max is the SF Chapter Director of the AFM, Photo: Angelica Rubalcaba where we found rows mostly collectors: some know and love With warm hands and a full belly, I hit and is currently in deep shit with Editor Surj Bello Moto of vintage and vintage bikes, others just think they’re the road again, continuing up the newly for reminding him that it was almost twenty- with racing stripes interspersed with positioning of the Griso is really pretty beautiful and want one to have on repaved section of Knoxville/Berryessa. five years ago that he worked sound at a Cake chrome and little touches of gray. And cool. To experience the body position display. Some of Bello’s bikes are Even on the cold and wet tarmac I show and learned they were just as pompous then there’s the tailpipe: it’s awesome. It yourself, sit down at your kitchen table. rented for use as props in photo was able to put the Griso through its as their songs. seriously looks like the tailpipe I would Now slide your chair out a bit and move Italian for “Scooters Galore” shoots, commercials, video projects. paces, throwing it through corners with have drawn at age 15 for a high-tech your butt forward so you’re on the edge They’re also passionate about getting surprisingly minimal effort. I expected the Super Griso superhero: two different sized exhaust of your seat. Get on the balls of your toes, By An DeYoung together. But, it’s gone, sold to someone new riders into the fun of vintage 5’1” wheelbase and 500+ pounds to only By Sam Devine ports encircled with fins. Yep, if someone stretch out your arms a medium distance Photos by Angelica Rubalcaba I hope has restored it to its former glory scoots and is eager to guide newbies started filming a live-action version of and put both palms face down on the be good for a cruise to the coffee shop. It’s trickling down rain when we leave (though he wouldn’t agree to pink). onto the right bike. No matter Akira tomorrow, a bone-stock Griso would table. It’s a stance that seems almost y love of Italian vehicles goes Transitioning through the corners was CityBike world headquarters for Middle who the customer is, Bello Moto land a gig in the supporting cast. as if you were in an intense business back decades. When I was 18 I A few months back, I was cruising a joy, even the tighter bits. It was kinda Harbor Shoreline Park, to meet up with like finding out that in addition to opera, negotiation and you’re about to say: “Are bought my first , a 1976 Craigslist for old Vespas—not too others for the ride to the Unification Rally As I shift gears, the gyroscopic action of MRally 200. $400, beat-up burnt orange, seriously, you know—but that’s what I do Pavarotti was also a great metal drummer. you kidding me! That’s ridiculous! You in Sacramento. Editor Surj points out the the transverse engine is enough to make You really need to experience it to believe shame your company with such methods of missing the kick start lever. I had to have when I’m feeling a little nostalgic. Then lack of ABS and traction control, and I take me shift more gently than I’m naturally it. negotiation!” someone push start it for me so I could ride I saw it: a ‘76 burnt orange Rally 200. All it easy on this thing in the rain. As much inclined. Hell, these days I jockey shift half it. original. On my ride home, the fuel light came on. as I’d like to wring it out like a wet rag, see the time. The parallel twins, in-line fours Then point with your clutch hand and yell: Instead of giving me an estimated mileage what it takes to chirp the rear end, this ain’t and small thumpers that I ride don’t call for “Get out of my office!” Soon after I acquired the Rally, I joined up It was beautiful. until empty, the Griso told me how many my bike. It’s Professor Xavier’s… much clutch. But the way the whole Griso with a newly formed all-girls scooter club in At first, I found it similar to Kawi’s Vulcan, A little more research brought me to the miles the light had been on—absolutely rocks to the right under acceleration, along San Francisco called the Scheming Bitches. The curves and styling of the Griso make and was taking bumps pretty hard on the Bello Moto website, BelloMoto.com. Their useless and panic-inducing information, with the wet asphalt, it seems like the bike I rode around in mini skirts so tight I could it seem like it was designed by a Marvel rear. But it’s much easier to get off the seat for sale inventory was like a dream list of unless you’ve completely run out of gas on is telling me: “You can shift rough as you only get one foot down at stops, went to Comics illustrator. A muted red and black on the Griso. With a little bit of prep, I was bikes I wanted back in my youth. I emailed, , stacked two-high. Some this particular bike before and know how want to, but don’t get mad at me if the rear scooter shows and embraced all that was sailing over potholes. Bumps I didn’t see semi-hoping they wouldn’t email me back. original, some beautifully, correctly tire slides out…” the Bay Area mod scene. and wasn’t prepared for, however, I still They did. restored. Noted, I ride smoother, almost as if I had a took on the tuckus. There’s a little element I moved to Sacramento a couple years later Shortly after that, Editor Surj emailed As Surj and Xavier started talking, passenger. of doing a pull-up for a person my size to and my love affair with scooters continued, too. He must have felt a disturbance in the I walked through the bikes. get up on this bike, but really, this time of unabashed. Years passed and more scooters We get to the meet-up and the quirky force, heard the sound of an industrial- , Lambretta, handlebar year, after many a hearty meal, I kind of came and went, but the Rally always stayed. gent that goes by the name Fish teases me sized vacuum coming from my garage, Vespa, handlebar Vespa, Lambretta. welcomed the exercise. I painted it pink, made it perfect, my old that I’ve had the bike almost twenty rainy faithful. Bike after bike, like the minutes and there’s still chicken strip on All in all, this is hands-down the most best toy store in the the rear tire. He also notices some bluing manageable bike over 750ccs that I’ve Then it got stolen. world. Some of these on the rear caliper. We both take note gotten to play with. Second place goes to a I got a call days later—my Rally had bikes have even been of the cool-looking oil cooler that hangs Harley Nightster, which had a lower seat, been found! I rushed to the tow yard, shown at The Quail off the right side. Its finned cowling and but wasn’t nearly as smooth with the power paying extra to pick it up on a weekend. Motorcycle Gathering. slight angle towards the rear give it great delivery as the Griso. The Nightster also I soon found the orange makes sure each bike they sell has a birth natural protection from road pebbles and scraped a footpeg if I even thought about ‘76 Rally in all its original, certificate. Numbers match, paperwork, kamikaze fruit flies. leaning. The Griso had no clearance issues, unrestored glory. The rule is, service records... whatever they can find, it although I was keeping it rather upright due I joke with Surj that when he’d warned me if you lick it, it’s yours. So... stays with the bike. to rainy conditions. the Griso really has no wind-protection I snap back to reality, and Back downstairs, there’s more magic. I’d thought, “Please, I rode a 450 to New On the ride back from Excremento, I hear Xavier telling Surj Mixed in with the scooters are a variety Orleans and back with no windshield.” follow one of our group back through the how Bello Moto started of interesting, rare automobiles: a Piaggio But that 450 wasn’t going 80 by the time Delta, curving cautiously down the River sucking in more bikes I can’t out with just Vespas, but soon brought Ape, a three-wheeled scooter-truck it cleared the highway on-ramp. And the Road, passing through towns that time afford, or more importantly, in Lambrettas. With contacts in Italy contraption; a BMW Isetta, another headlight and speedo on the Griso are so forgot while nature pelted us with sheets don’t have space for. He knew I they’ve been able to gain access to private three-wheeled micro-car; a Fiat Topolino, low and minimal, I found myself wishing of gray rain. If I was to do this ride again, I had scooters in my past (which collections hidden away and only shown and several Alfas—all cars from Bello for even the minimal shielding provided by wouldn’t change a thing about the bike. It’s sounds darker than it should) to a trusted few. The scooters are shipped Moto’s sister shop, Euro Classix Cars a Honda headlight and gauge cluster. perfect. It seems made for gently winding and wanted to know if I’d visit from Italy: some already restored, some in (EuroClassixCars.com). next to a river, leaning into easy sweepers. Bello Moto with him. I’m not The Griso handled I-80 in the rain need of restoration. Some they find only The gyroscopic action of its transverse sure who paid him to send that My advice: if you’re a scooter enthusiast without any real issues. It accelerates My boyfriend and another friend went in usable for parts. engine gives a floating feeling and its hefty email—certainly wasn’t my husband—but planning to visit Bello Moto, have an idea just fine and has plenty of passing power, first. They came out shaking their heads, weight feels sturdy against the wet roads. I was practically on the way to SF before I They’ve also been able to buy out of what you want. Write it down, pin it on breezing through ninety with plenty left pushing my stripped, trashed, humiliated finished reading it. dealerships going out of business, thus the front of your shirt before you go in, over. If I were to keep it, I would swap out Also, when paired with my yellow rain Vespa. building up their inventory of hard to find because you aren’t going to be able to focus the bars so I could sit just a little more gloves and Nexx helmet full of Xs, this kick- Our Saturday appointment was set, and Again I fixed it up, and it was my faithful original bits and pieces, to be used later: or speak intelligibly for a while once you get upright. Folks around my 5’6” height may ass futuristic cruiser lets me feel more than soon I was standing outside an unassuming daily rider for many more years. servicing vintage daily riders, completing inside. feel similarly. Depending how clearance a little bit like a member of a particular warehouse in a not-quite-Dirtbag part of a customer restoration, or finishing a worked out, I might lower it just a hair, too, mutant super hero group. Then I test rode a Ducati. Bayview with Surj and Angelica. Editor Thanks to Xavier for opening the shop for ground-up restoration that’ll then be as I can almost flat foot this bike. Surj made a quick call to one of the us on a Saturday, and I’m sincerely sorry Sam is our SF-based columnist. See what he Yep, sold the Rally, along with 3 other partners, numbers guy Xavier, and the roll- placed into their inventory. about the uh… fingerprints… on the Rally. Even though it’s not exactly the most has to say about riding two-up on page 20. bikes, and looking back, my only regret up door slowly opened. Back when I was a teenager first shopping freeway touring-ready bike ever, I’m not has been selling the Rally. Don’t get me An is CityBike’s one-woman Sacramento for a scooter, I’d scraped together $400 to in pain when we get to Sac. And the body wrong—I love my GT1000, but that Rally When I agreed to tag along, I’d looked at operation, and our deep-cover operative in the buy my Rally. These days, they can easily was my first love. We went through a lot the website, thought I could be cool: walk weird world of the Ducatisti. March 2016 | 16 | CityBike.com March 2016 | 17 | CityBike.com Red Bikes Matter CityBike FJ-09

By Dan Baizer Stay with me here, I promise it won’t hurt… Doubt that? Take a ride through a reason to believe, therefore, that he saw me Long Term Project e’ve all seen events nationwide much. You’ll only feel a slight pressure, just Disneyland “attraction,” allow yourself to and my bright red bike, before his sudden that led to the Black Lives for a moment. be pummeled with a recurrent theme song. swerving maneuver? Try and erase that stuff from your mind Road-Ready For Matter (BLM) Movement. Mazda’s commercials, touting their This is where the disconnect began. You WBLM is now a component of US History during the following three months. Uh latest, greatest automobiles (Sky Active huh. Damaged brain matter. see, at that point, I didn’t matter. Nope, that will eventually weave its way into technology!) now proclaim “Driving not one bit. His phone conversation, his Gettin’ Long Gone school textbooks, so many years after Matters.” Oops, did I say “matter?” fifty-thousand-dollar truck, his off-ramp— Selma. Deal with it. Photo: Surj Gish those things mattered. By Aaron Bonner Verizon—perhaps correctly—claims that Back to the wonderful world of to KFG, they returned with brand new GP cost of the shock over time. That’s what I’m The bike supposedly makes a few more So deal with this, riders and enthusiasts their area of wireless coverage provides motorcycling… CityBike readers have Somehow, my undershorts survived Photos by Max Klein and Surj Gish of two-wheeled motorized travel. If it’s internals. telling myself, anyway. horsies now, but I can’t really tell the the biggest, bestest footprint your cellular enjoyed the perspective of the good Doctor the incident without rising to meet my f you’re a regular reader of CityBike, or difference—perhaps if I ate more salad and true that imitation is the sincerest form The 25MM GP cartridge kit runs $1,199, Spending over $2,300 to upgrade the life can ever have. How? Why? “Better Gregory Frazier regarding the usage of internal organs, in spite of the extremely rather, you read CityBike regularly— drank less beer it would matter more. But of flattery, what about the blatant theft and includes new springs. Labor plus new suspension of a brand new bike is not Matters.” “adventure motorcycle” terminology. high pucker factor brought on by this none of you are what we’d call even without a noticeable power increase, of ideas? One of the disadvantages of fork seals and oil bring the total to just a something everyone will want (or perhaps Myself, I truly cannot recall when and unexpected adventure. Somehow, a bright Iregular—you know we’ve had a long- I’m very pleased with the improved fueling And if it matters to you that more than just watching television, reading magazines, where I first learned of this category of red bike on a clear, sunny day became hair over $1,400. This might seem pricey, even need) to do. For me, it was worth it—I the human species is involved in that which running thing for the FJ-09, beginning with thanks to the ECU flash, and highly browsing newspapers (except for CityBike, motorcycle. invisible to a driver (whose parents were because it is—good suspension isn’t ride pretty hard and as a husky gentleman, matters, PetCo advertises, “What We Feed Editor Surj naming it Bike Of The Year recommend it. of course) is that we are barraged with likely brother and sister) perched three cheap— but the changes really transform I’m used to doing suspension upgrades on Them Matters.” All too bafflingly, these I used to ride a 1989 R100GS, bumble for 2015, back in March. Since then, I’ve stolen brain emissions. Commercials, feet above me. And somehow, I finished the front of the FJ, and work within the pretty much every bike I buy. With these These two major improvements— PetCo commercials often immediately bee black and yellow. An excellent bike, been working to whip my already pretty advertisements, even “editorial” content— my journey that day scarcely a blink of my limitations of the stock fork tubes, keeping upgrades, my FJ-09 handles as well as any suspension and fueling—coupled with the follow the Mazda commercials. although the later versions of the GS line awesome FJ-09 into even awesomer shape. these things insult our intelligence and eyes. compression damping on one side and bike in the $12-15K range; particularly if previous upgrades have helped the FJ fulfill steal our time by preoccupying our mental are way the hell more expensive and over- Thank you, sir (or madam). May I have In this final installment of the CityBike rebound on the other. you have good the promise it’s sport-touring promise. The spaces with mindless “content” instead of farkled beyond anything I’d want to learn Navigating through the lexicon of 21st FJ-09 project bike series, I’ll cover the throttle control Shad triple-case setup offers capacious another? Fixing the shock, thought. to master. Century-speak, this is the organic, natural, suspension upgrades and ECU flash that to help mellow storage for longer trips, while the MadStad By now, you’re probably wondering if I keep non-GMO, cage, gluten and sugar-free, really transformed the bike into the near- in my opinion, Here’s one that manipulates to the max: But that’s okay if it makes your socks roll out the super adjustable screen, Yamaha comfort seat, a note pad by my chair, just to harvest and nondairy, unsalted, politically-correct, perfect machine I knew it could be all was even more SaveMart Supermarkets created a TV up and down. Personally, my current fleet twitchy A-mode. Oxford heated grips and Throttlemeister reprise these advertising gems. Nope, don’t non-aggressive, vegan-approved, free- along. I’ll also summarize the upgrades and critical than the commercial showing people (of diverse of motorcycles (two) and my wife’s (one) Speaking of make it a right proper long-distance mount, have to. range, nonfat, reduced, re-used and fork. There are aren’t even fuel-injected—just carbureted; changes that I made. A-mode… offering comfort and reasonable protection color and creed, of course) fawning over recycled, locally-grown, environmentally a few options, but somehow they manage to perform as let’s talk about from the elements. produce. You know, the healthy organic You see, when it’s repeated like a North friendly, employee-owned, gender-neutral, After all changes I made to the bike, there but I have had we desire. flashing the stuff that grows in manure-supplemented Korean Pledge of Allegiance, ad infinitum, small-business-owned truth: were still two issues which needed to great luck with Want an FJ like mine? It’ll cost you just dirt. despite Ollie North’s claims that “your ECU. But just as commercialized claims of be addressed. The first: suspension—a Penske and chose north of $15,000, which does put it in the notes will save your ass,” it kinda sticks Red Bikes Matter. definite need. The second: flashing the The commercial ends with a simple on- what matters are flooded over us through their 8983 double I chose to price range of some very capable bikes. between the ears, behind the eyes. ECU, which some might argue is really Photo: Max Klein screen statement: “Roots Matter.” dullards, we are faced with motorcycle clicker, remote have my ECU That said, I’d probably put at least $2,000 relics that don’t have the hip-cool, only a need in the same sense as how some reservoir unit for flashed by 2 to $3,000 into any of those bikes as well— high-tech features touted by the riders need a garage full of bikes that do the this application. Wheel Dynoworks (2wheeldynoworks. suspension upgrades, for example. So for same thing slightly differently. com). The process is simple: pluck the the money, while no longer a hell of a deal, manufacturers. Apparently it doesn’t I was not disappointed. This shock will ECU out of the bike (very simple to do), this FJ-09 is one hell of a bike: versatile, matter that the prices for these beasts Anyway, suspension… The Oh Nine is set you back $950 (including the proper send it to them, wait a week. Oh, and hand comfortable, and an absolute blast to ride. are, well… beastly. After all, if you want a bit under-sprung in stock form. I say spring for your weight), which like the over $325. That price is a bit richer than It’s the first new bike I’ve ever purchased, an adventure, you gotta have the right under-sprung because there’s no way that fork upgrades is not chump change. But some other tuners, but 2WD includes and I can’t imagine a scenario in which I bike. Never mind that whoever stole the 265 pounds can be considered overweight, this cost gets you improvements to the lifetime re-flashes—handy if I ever decide would sell it any time in the next 10 years term “adventure bike” should be charged right? This is America, after all. Beyond handling of the bike, both in straight line to modify the intake or exhaust. They may or so. It’s as close to perfect for commuting, with profiteering idea theft. the necessary spring changes, however, I stability at speed (remember, I’ve got bigger also develop cruise control functionality canyon carving and touring as any bike found that the fork’s damping was quite luggage on this thing) and in cornering. I’ll tell you about a rather adventurous that would be offered on future re-flashes. I’ve ever ridden. I just hit 10,000 miles this harsh. For most roads, the suspension was Well worth the money, in my opinion. motorcycle ride I had recently. I was on week, and I am looking forward to the next fine, even at a brisk pace, but on the bumpy, The results are impressive. A-mode is my bright red, 22-year-old sports bike on Couple the improvement to handling with 90,000! goaty stuff that I like to ride, the rear would much more rider-friendly, but still frisky a moderately busy freeway, just merged in increased tire life due to the suspension blow right through the . Unsettling, under aggressive throttle. Additionally, the Aaron is a multi-bike guy whose multi-bike from the on-ramp. Approaching me from keeping the rear tire in good contact with the rear in the lane to my immediate left to say the least. pesky speed limiter was removed. I’ve only tendencies are being called into question by his Dan Baizer is long-time occasional CityBike the pavement as the throttle is applied, was a jacked-up pick ‘em up truck. Loud, We asked around, and heard that the folks broken 115 MPH a few times, but it was FJ-09. He lives in Pacifica with a KDX200, a contributor—almost as old as Hertfelder, but and the price starts to sound a lot more aggressive-tread tires. Loud exhaust pipe at KFG racing (KFGracing.com) know quite annoying when it kicked in. Good blue (seriously!) KTM 690 and the FJ-09. without the Eastern accent. These days, he reasonable. I go through a lot of tires, and and diesel clatter. The driver was alone, but exactly how to fix the front of the FJ. A riddance, I say! mostly focuses on keeping Editor Surj in line I figure that reduced tire costs due to the accompanied by an obvious conversation couple of weeks after I sent the fork tubes suspension improvements will offset the with his hands-free cell phone mic on the and advocating for loud clutch awareness. Expense Report sun shade: yelling at his windshield, but I started with the standard FJ-09 at $10,490. Here’s how the upgrades to my seeing nothing else around him, including FJ-09 add up to that “just north of $15,000” price I mentioned. me and my obviously red but suddenly BMW - DUCATI - HONDA - KTM invisible bike. Modification Cost Rating MOTORCYCLE RENTAL As his desired, but not well-planned for off- GP 25MM Cartridge kit, custom sprung and valved $1,400 9 ramp quickly drew closer, he returned to Penske 8983 shock, custom sprung $950 10 partial consciousness and swerved rapidly to the right, into my lane, trying to get ECU Flash $325 7 off the freeway. His action converted my Oxford heated grips $50 8 machine, at that stage, into an “adventure bike.” Six of Brembo’s finest (non-ABS) Cal-Sci tinted shorty windscreen $125 9 masterpieces did their work, while the Cal-Sci large windscreen $200 6 pricey but worthwhile aftermarket rear shock kept me in a straight line while Madstad windshield system with 18” shield $220 10 braking. (South City Location) Yamaha factory radiator guard $100 9 Didn’t I mention that, before this Yamaha factory comfort seat $365 8 eagleridersf.com Up To 25% off Regular Season Prices unexpected adventure ride even started, Throttlemeister bar ends/throttle lock $125 8 Mr. Truck Balls caught up to me from (415) 905-0771 Special Pricing Code Expires 3/31/16 [email protected] Enter SFOM11 in Promo Code Box behind, in an adjacent lane? Isn’t there 136-H S. Linden Ave. South San Francisco Shad 3P system with side cases and top case (with backrest) $1,000 10

March 2016 | 18 | CityBike.com March 2016 | 19 | CityBike.com bring a bagger around or I’ll end up owning samsam DEVINEDEVINE a rolling couch.” I give her the dr. gregory w. FRAZIER passenger prep-talk: lean The with me, try to look where Chief, World I look, hold on low. She’s Adventure nervous but climbs on Adventurer’s anyway. Affairs Desk At a stop light on Wandering Crossover drive she leans forward and Illustration by Mr. Jensen says: “I’m getting pushed against Eye you. Is that ok?” “Yeah,” I reply. ne room with a single bed eye, an uncommon “You’re going to keep giving me reasons “It happens. at the inn, at the only hotel disorder. When alert to stay here, while trying to reduce my his is her third motorcycle ride I mean, that’s in town. The next town and well rested both resistance to sharing a bed by continuing Owas hours away and meant riding ever. A friend loaned her a blue, my eyes focused on to ply me with beer or maybe something tribal leather jacket and with her after sunset, against my “no riding the same object. stronger, praying I submit to your million Tengineer boots and blonde hair, she looks after dark” rule. When tired, the mile ways, a wandering eye and your every bit the badass biker babe. Her first A room with one bed was fine with right one would wandering ass. Strabismus may be one of ride was on a Harley with her friend’s father me, but not so ok with my new wander. your disorders, but you’re also a horny old over ten years ago. She said it was scary. wandering road dog. You’ll keep hoping motorcycle companion. She was on The hearing problem, to slide me in a bed with you while also her first solo adventure and had earlier in however, was diagnosed Her second ride was on the small pillion hoping to slip into my knickers.” of my 450 Honda cruiser. Not very comfy, the day asked if she could follow along with simply as a self-induced me, expressing her fear of riding alone in but low and quiet, so hopefully that Illustration by Sam Devine mental condition. I laughed and did proceed, accompanied made it accessible. It was a super-mellow a third world country. by my million mile hope and adventure My adventuress companion ride through Golden Gate Park. I tired can of worms, a recent disagreement, but saddle: “It doesn’t look as cool but then wandering eye. My man switch had been on, so instead gave my explanation some to be hyper-conscious of every bump, there’s not time to iron things out. So we you’re trying to impress fewer people.” riding with a passenger. But what you can of waving off any unknown motorcyclist thought while using a Dr. Frazier’s new all-color coffee table book, acceleration and brake application. We get back on the bike, not completely at ease, do is lean back as you feel a stop coming, All the compromise and sacrifice has a on their own as had been my old lone purple painted fingernail DOWN AND OUT IN PATAGONIA, sat at the Point Lobos overlook around but still moving forward together. kinda like riding a bus.” wolf standard travel mode, I felt my mojo to peel off the label of KAMCHATKA AND TIMBUKTU, sundown and she said she could see the pay-off, though. At the top of the hill, I As we wind up the curving terraces of this took some pictures because she’s gorgeous, whispering, “It’s an attractive she and not her nearly empty bottle. available at mototorbooks.com, is the first- appeal. We pass Baker beach, twisting up the road a he, so temporarily forget your rule about into the Presidio. Leaning into the curves, I once-small fishing village, it occurs to me the view’s fantastic and the moment was Arriving at a decision, she ever first-hand chronicle of a never-ending This time, I pick her up on a Suzuki that a relationship is a lot like riding with worth remembering. But there was also a traveling with unknown motorcyclists and tipped it back and let the last motorcycle ride by “the world’s most cerebral point where she should look. If two people help the damsel avoid distress.” V-Strom 650XT, an adventure bike that’s can both focus on the same goal, a lot of the a passenger. The parallels are extremely real sense of accomplishment. I had made it drops fall on her tongue, set motorcyclist.” It is highly “recommended” by taller, faster and more comfortable. With its rest simply falls in place. She does well and obvious, but they also run deep. to the top of Hawk Hill on a clear January We partnered up and traveled for the rest the empty down, and shared Grant Johnson, horizonsunlimited.com wide two-seater saddle, she says it’s kinda morning with a beautiful woman that I her two quickly-killed-beer- adventure travel book guru, and for dream when we get to the stop sign at the top of Riding two-up is physically harder for of an uneventful day until the sun started couch-y. “Shit,” I think. “I’d better not love. There’s no price tag for that. thoughts with me. riding armchair and keyboard adventurists. the hill, I tell her so. the operator as well as the motorcycle. nearing the yardarm in a small town. I waved her over to the one hotel in town We go left, under the toll plaza and You have to support one another in a As well as supporting us, our partners also relationship—sometimes literally. A keep us in check. Physically, mentally, where we were told the availability of the buttonhook to the onramp. As we merge single room. headed in our direction, onto the bridge, a big-rig whooshes by. I two-person ride is also more mentally financially, they reinforce who we are. driving without turning may be used to the wake that 18-wheelers demanding because there’s more They share the road, the view, the coffee The 30-ish newbie adventurist and I on their vehicle headlights.” throw off, but it’s always a little jarring. I responsibility. The life of the passenger is and the cheese blintz. They give us a reason discussed the options of sharing the single hope she’s feels all right. in your hands, and a lot of your passenger’s not to ride the razor’s edge. They care room and bed versus soldiering on into the She took another swallow, thought for a personal comfort and sense of well- whether we wind up in a ditch. darkness for some unknown vacancy at the few seconds and then said, “If we ride slow At the top of Hawk Hill there’s a pack of being is dictated by how you pilot the enough we should be able to avoid all of So sure, there are compromises required next town. The hotel owner offered us each bicyclists. We circle around past them and bike. It’s rarely a good idea to zip around those.” to reap the benefits of companionship—in a cold beer while we sat on the front porch park. She takes off her helmet and gloves, like a hooligan with a passenger—well, riding as in life. But like Bob Marley said: of his small hotel and explored our options. My patience meter moved into the Zero breathing heavy. unless your significant other is a sidecar “Everyone is going to hurt you. You just got The owner was likely trying to induce us Zone. I looked at her empty beer bottle, monkey. But the ride can translate into the “Hey, are you ok?” I ask. to find the ones worth suffering for.” through a cheap alcohol chill into staying asked if she wanted another? When she psychology of the couple: Is the road too the night instead of losing our business to “Yeah,” she says, obviously worked up. said she would, I prompted the hotel owner bumpy? Are things moving too fast? Can Maybe it’s time to start saving for that a competitor in the next town. I passed on to bring her the one he had offered me. “Seriously, are you all right? You don’t have you trust one another? Goldwing... the swill, but the lady, hardcore biker-man- to get back on this thing.” like, accepted the promotional gift. While she was drinking the second Just like a relationship, riding two-up is a Sam is our SF-based columnist. He beer I explained that I had a physical “No, I’m ok, it’s just,” and she pauses. “The compromise. Although the operator often motorbikes, kitesurfs, and picks guitars. Get As she quickly and nervously drank disorder called Strabismus, also known leaning by Baker Beach was kinda scary.” has to go slower, climbing on one of those a copy of his book, “Fifty First Rides,” at her free beer, she challenged my stated as wandering eye. When I became tired murder-cycles their mother warned them SamDevine.com. preference to avoid the risk of riding my right eye would wander, causing me “Oh, really? I’m sorry. I took it really easy about is often a sacrifice by the passenger, at night to the next town. She said it to sometimes lose focus. I added that I the whole way. I mean, that was, like, who must relent control and trust the was contrary to the definition of a real first noticed it when an ex-girlfriend had nothing.” operator. It demonstrates acceptance. motorcycle adventurist, not being willing become physically abusive while lecturing “I know, but it was freaky.” But for many of us motorcycling feels to take the risk. I replied simply, saying me on my behavior as a self-centered intrinsic to who we are and if a lover asked that after a million miles and numerous wandering motorcycle adventurist, the “Yeah, that’s something that just comes us to give it up, Bob Dylan’s “It Ain’t Me, third world countries I had another rule in lecture spiced with four letter words and with time. Turning feels like falling at first. M addition to “ride alone,” that being not to Babe” would start playing in the back of our references to my being a son-of-something I’m sorry. You can tap me at any time and minds. GARAGE ride at night. (or someone?). Her heated diatribe had we can stop.” become a bomb when she exploded, “Will In the same way that riding helps us She scoffed at my rule, saying, “We’ll be We embrace in a passionate kiss, hands you at least look at me when I am talking to remember who we are, our bikes tend to Vintage / Modern on a four lane highway, and using our two cradling. “Thanks for organizing, Dave,” you! Your looking away makes me feel like represent us: our personal finances, style headlights if we ride next to each other. yells one of the bicyclists as he rides past us. Motorcycle & Scooter I am talking and not being listened to.” From 3:14 Daily and abilities. You gotta have a decent set up What can be so dangerous?” “See you next time!” Service Specialists to get very far with someone else along for I patiently replied, “Potholes, road The ex-girlfriend was correct on two Valencia @ 25th We both laugh. Yeah, way to go, Dave. the ride, and as in almost any situation, it alligators, two and four legged walkers, accounts. I was tired that day and my right rarely hurts to provide a cushy place to sit. (Pre-1975? Come on in!!) the assorted garbage dropped on the road eye was aimed skyward and above her left After a short break she relaxes and we go like wood products, trash in a black plastic shoulder while my left eye was looking down the hill to a little cafe in Sausalito. You may have to sacrifice a little style and Moto Garage bag, loose gravel and slick spots thanks to directly at her, and both ears were in the The man behind the counter cracks jokes speed to provide some comfort. As a good diesel, oil or soft tar. And then there are the Great Empty Void mode. A later visit to an 415-970-9670 and cuts us an extra large slice of cream friend once told me as he swapped his 415-337-1448 optometrist diagnosed the optical disorder 112 Sagamore St, SF, CA. 94112 possible drunk drivers in the wrong lanes cheese blueberry blintz. I start opening a Beemer’s cafe seat for a two-person touring as Strabismus, also known as wandering March 2016 | 20 | CityBike.com March 2016 | 21 | CityBike.com eded HERTFELDERHERTFELDER Let The Chips Fall WearIllustration by Mr.Items Jensen The Gaernes look like suede, but I’m sure winter—note that my bike does not have DR650, but the bicycle shorts seem to me frame! He continued on as if nothing had “What happened?” I asked him just before happened, and finished the last 40 miles in crying, complaining and handlebars in turning to the check crew to begin my the material is synthetic so there’s heated grips, a fairing or handguards—I to make as much difference as an upgraded kidneys. no maintenance. I treat the all- wear an old pair of BMW Gore-Tex gloves aftermarket saddle. They make a stock with his feet on top of the crankcases. Academy Award-winning “Water, water, leather Gasolinas with Obenauf’s, or an even older pair of Yamaha-brand saddle acceptable-plus. Trust me—why “How you doing Little Tank?” I asked as I aaaagh, water” performance, which usually maynard Tank stopped riding for a time after he gets something liquid poured down my maynard HERSHONHERSHON my favorite leather preservative and snowmobile mittens. would I lie? fractured an ankle on a concrete geodetic hustled to get organized and pick up some waterproofer. Perhaps you’ve found a of the twenty minutes I was down. throat. When I travel, I take four I wear the shorts just as I would on a survey marker at the worst possible time. leather goop you like; if you haven’t, pairs of gloves, give or take, bicycle: without underwear. He was already on notice from his boss, “Dropped two” he said, “how about you?” “I’m good” he said. “No problem, mon.” give Obenauf’s a try. Great stuff. and a pair of Aerostich Before I put them on, I landlord and wife to shape up or ship out. Then he took a few steps toward the big “I didn’t bring my calculator.” y riding these days has evolved I used to wear leather gear, and I liked it. I waterproof smear a little bit of Brave ank” Thompkins earned his water jug held by a girl who had quite He was being ganged-up on and took it like sizable jugs of her own. The girl’s into once-or-twice weekly day still have a zip-together jacket and pants but over- Soldier Friction Zone nickname honestly. He could a man—whimpering all the way. rides, out into the countryside, I seldom wear them. If you do wear leather mittens. ointment on the backs take his BSA 441 Victor across eyes followed him with a look of Mand two or three long trips each year. and you travel, you surely have to pack of my upper legs and my “an overgrownT field of milkweed laced with We’ve all noticed that the wives of men laid admiration bordering on great Day rides with the guys in nice weather a rainsuit. I’ve had a rainsuit or two, but lower cheeks (bottom, greenbrier vines, and his arrow-straight up with leg injuries are 100% susceptible admiration. I could tell that any do not demand a lot of one’s clothing or never one I liked. not face). Another bicycle path would look like something made by a to pregnancy. We’ll need more research resistance on his part would be equipment. Trips of considerable distance item, Friction Zone puts large tracked vehicle. to come up with an explanation for this, futile—he was about to be reeled Starts to rain. You wait long enough to be do make demands, often in the areas of a slippery coating on your but in any event, it came to pass that in and put on ice, and hopefully, sure it’s going to continue. You stop under Tank was 6’4” tall, with no discernable personal contact with your bike. skin, lessening the chance Mrs. Tank brought forth a 10 pound, not hurt too badly in the an overpass (if you’re fortunate) and pull of saddle neck, and legs so short that he always six-ounce, chip off the big old block process. the rainsuit on. It sticks to the wet leather I wrote last year (“A Modern History of burn… appeared to be walking on soft ground and during his recuperation. Mr. and of your jacket, pants and boots. You have The finish was some Maynard’s Boots” – March 2014) about at least sinking. His shoulders were not quite wide Mrs. Tank called the chunk to be careful or you’ll tear and ruin your distance up the trail from boots, but I’ll recap: I have two pair at this for a few enough for him to hang-glide himself, but Christopher, everyone else called rainsuit. the firehouse where the point, a classical pair of Gasolinas that hundred were certainly within a few inches of free him “Little Tank.” look like Mike Hailwood’s boots, sleek and flight width. finish checkpoint was Once it’s on, you sweat in that waterproof miles. almost unarmored, and a pair of beefier, Thompkins brought Little manned by the greybeards suit and everything in your pockets (and I remember once riding bent over, with my more protective Gaerne boots that are There are Tank to all the enduros. At of the sponsoring club, inside your underwear) is one more nose almost dimpling the gas cap along a warmer… and closer to waterproof. several other three, Little Tank was pedaling but alongside the trail fumble-fingered layer away. Argh! anti-friction dark and overgrown cranberry bog dike. around on a tricycle that there was a half-barrel I love my vintage-looking Gasolina boots Tank went by me in a swirl of broken of beer submerged in So I wear Cordura. I have three Aerostich products for Thompkins had turned into but when I’m dressing for a long journey, I branches and terrified insects. And he’d ice cubes. Most riders, suits, two of which were used when I got bicycling, but a Servicycle. At even Little grab the sturdier Gaerne pair. If I come off removed so much vegetation that the sun including myself took them. Starts to rain, I just keep riding. I use I seldom I’m not familiar Tank had a centrifugal clutch the bike at highway speed (or at any speed, suddenly began to hurt my eyes. the offered plastic Nikwax products to wash and reseal my wear gloves with them. I am motorcycle powered by a chain really) I like to believe that all those tiny without glass, scooped up ‘Stich stuff. It’s easy. intimately familiar Those of us who were familiar with saw engine, custom-made boots, bones in my feet have a shot at remaining armor, comfy and drank the ice with Friction Zone, Thompkins’ style might describe a recently a helmet and a little fanny pack somewhat intact. I have an embarrassingly large assortment as they look. water from the tub and I know it works. A bulldozed pipeline as a “Thompkins made from an electric razor case. of gloves and a few pair of over-gloves. In before switching to the tube will last many trips. Track”. Thompkins was usually two steps For anything beer tap. Regardless of over a few hour Oh, if your helmet pushes behind Little Tank’s rig, ready to The thick brush on the edge of a the supposed thirst- ride, under the your sunglass stems upright it if a wheel dropped into drainage ditch that had been bulldozed quenching benefits Cordura bottoms into your head above a gopher hole or it tipped over on a flat by a motorcycle was referred to as a of cold beer, it’s just I wear a pair of your ears, smear a little misplaced brick. “Thompkins Around.” “Thompkinning” a another advertising threadbare pedal Friction Zone there too. steep downhill means you had the engine By eleven, Little Tank was on a lie. Nothing, cycling shorts, the Works for me. stopped, the rear wheel locked up, tires Yamaha 80 and keeping up with him absolutely nothing, Spandex kind with I have one of those on foot was out of the question, beats plain water. plowing and you were feverishly looking Illustration by Mr. Jensen the synthetic, sweat- paddles that clips for a nice tree to grab. sometimes just keeping him in absorbent pad inside around the twistgrip sight was tough. The original Tank to cushion my bottom As a general rule Tank would finish an Thompkins was to make it easier to And by 14, Little Tank was against the saddle and hold the throttle open enduro wearing nothing above the waist about half out of his mind wick away butt-sweat. on a 125cc enduro and was a joy with worry by the time Little Tank mile after weary mile. This but a helmet and a pair of shoulder pads. “That bad, huh?” he laughed as he kicked This doesn’t mean he left the start line to behold as he wheelied up and down rode in 55 minutes late. The boy put his The Spandex is smooth and slippery isn’t a wearable item of course, but like my his engine to life and took off up the trail. dressed that way: far from it. He usually through the gears. arm around his Dad’s shoulder and as they so your outer pants, be they leather or pedal-bike shorts, it helps manage distance left wearing six or seven layers of outerwear Riding along at my usual Low Score walked toward the firehouse for a hot bowl Cordura, can slide against the shorts; discomfort. I use it on journeys but always In his first enduro, Little Tank started as which had soon tore to shreds as he Finisher speed I was surprised to find Little of firehouse chili, I heard him say, “Dad, your bottom does not chafe from the take it off immediately upon my return. a C class rider, won the class going away crashed through the scenery. Some said he Tank off his bike and talking to a girl at you have to meet this girl.” friction. I’ve had a couple of aftermarket The paddle makes minor on-and-off and notched up into B class. At his third navigated by compass, deviating slightly checkpoint #8. saddles in the last 20 years, a Corbin on throttle movements jerky. I scare myself. enduro the boy had some bike troubles but Get Ed’s latest book, 80.4 Finish Check on from his course for trees over two inches in my K75S and a Sargent on my Suzuki But it’s wonderful on the interstate or any corrected it in time to win third overall and Amazon.com! straight, undemanding road. diameter, and not at all for those smaller. move up to Class A. I feel I must take this opportunity to If you rode on a later number than It was apparent that little Tank wasn’t a mention electrically heated clothing. I’ve Thompkins, it was easy to see the looping chip off the old block at all. Dad rode like a Reliable, timely service at had a couple of vests that plugged into a arc of torn weeds where he’d overshot Sumo wrestler; the Little edition rode like pigtail from my bike’s battery. I confess a turn then plowed his way back to the a Golden Gloves Flyweight. reasonable rates on all that, barred from use of an electric vest arrowed trail. At his fourth event—the Ridge Run— (and now I have electric gloves!) I simply Riding on a number earlier than they had me on the same number as Little makes of motorcycles could not go on. Life would be a barren Thompkins meant having to be constantly Tank. The only reason I was there was to wasteland. alert for the dust cloud angling in an instant help the Meteor Club take home the Best Visit our new shop: If you have bought into society’s lies about before Tank would come crashing back Represented Club trophy. 990 Terminal Way, San Carlos the necessity of foolishness like food or onto the trail after one of his excursions Me and Little Tank has a chance to talk at shelter and resisted spending money on into unexplored territory. the 30-minute layover gas stop, AKA the electric clothing, I urge you: mend your OLD COUNTRY On one memorable occasion Tank missed Mercy Stop. It was nicely laid out with our INDUSTRIAL HOLLY ways. Shed three layers and lose that cold- a turn onto a railroad cut, some seven or fuel cans in 10 separate rows. Numbers 1, weather cramp, that knife between your eight feet deep. He re-entered the trail just 11, 21, 31 etc. in one row, 2, 12, 22, 32 etc. 101 shoulder blades. You too will be unable ahead of me at a fair rate of speed, dropped in another row. Each group of riders, if to imagine going without your heated TERMINAL to the roadbed in a perfect two-wheel they were on schedule, would be separated clothing, God forbid. landing, and since he was standing at by ten minutes, causing a great reduction BRITTAN the time, tore both foot pegs right off the March 2016 | 22 | CityBike.com March 2016 | 23 | CityBike.com 2011 Yamaha FZ8 - $5,995 CBR500R, 2013, Black, 1,507 miles, $5,498 Grom 125, 2015, Black, White, Yellow $3,199 Tokyo Moto 2012 Yamaha FZ8 - $7,495 CB500F, 2013, White, 4,605 miles, $5,198 Interstate, 2015, Black, CALL Tokyomoto, a family run motorcycle repair and sales shop located in 2015 Yamaha Bolt R-Spec - $7,295 NT700V, 2010, Silver, 2,409 miles, $4,998 Metropolitan, 2015, CALL SOMA is seeking a sales professional/service writer and a service CLASSIFIEDS 2005 Yamaha V-Star 650 - $3,995 CBR500R, 2013, Red, 1 miles, $5,498 Montesa, 2016, Red, $9,999 technician. If you want to work in a fun and exciting industry at a shop that appreciates its employees and customers, then read on. 2007 Yamaha V-Star 1100 - $4,995 CB600F, 2006, Black, 15,036 miles, $4,298 NC700X, 2015, $7,498 Full time sales associate: sell motorcycle service, motorcycles, apparel 2012 Yamaha YZ450F - $4,995 CBR600RR, 2011, Black, 1,901 miles, $8,998 NM4, 2016, Black, $10,498 and accessories. Our sales associates are responsible for answering phones, checking on service bikes, writing repair orders, selling TOWING J&M Motorsports LLC CBR500R, 2013, Black, 1,897 miles, $4,998 PCX150F, 2015, CALL Shadow Phantom 750, 2015, Silver, 238 miles, $5,998 PCX150F, 2016, Silver, $3,499 motorcycles and accessories and stocking merchandise. Quality Motorcycles Enter these contacts into your phone now, while you are thinking about it, so that 2243 Old Middlefield Way Full time service technician: experience with Japanese and European you will have them when you need them. CTX700ND, 2014, Black, 3,012 miles, $6,998 Ruckus, 2015, $2,649 235 Shoreline Hwy. Mountain View, Ca 94043 motorcycles required. Mill Valley CA Kawasaki Shadow Aero, 2015, Red, CALL 650-386-1440 Our staff must be friendly, and capable of making the needs of our (415) 381-5059 Ninja 300, 2014, Black, 444 miles, $4,698 Shadow Phantom, 2015, $7,499 customers a priority. We offer health insurance for our full time staff. Pay, www.jm-ms.com We’re not afraid of your old bike. Versys 650, 2013, White, 868 miles, $6,498 Shadow Spirit, 2012, Orange, $6,998 salaries and commissions will be determined by experience. We are a licensed dealer owned and operated by people who love motorcycles. When you call or visit, you’re talking directly with non- Versys 650, 2013, White, 884 miles, $6,498 Shadow Spirit, 2015, CALL commission team members who are passionate about getting you the Santa Rosa BMW / Triumph Ninja 300, 2014, Black, 54 miles, $5,298 Stateline, 2015, Blue, CALL PARTS AND SERVICE RIDING SCHOOLS bike you desire! We specialize in newer, low-mile, affordable bikes, and Ninja 300, 2013, Black, 6,528 miles, $4,998 Valkyrie, 2015, Red, CALL offer in-house financing—visit our website to apply today! Looking to 800 American Way, Windsor CA. Open Tue-Fri 9-6, Sat 9-4:30. sell your bike? Consignments are welcome! Phone 707-838-9100 x 2. 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A lousy $5,000.00 gets Lance Ninja 300, 2015, Black, $5,098 (408) 299-0508 Free secure storage of your car or bike onsite, or we can deliver bikes to 2010 Harley Davidson FXDB Dyna Street Bob - $11,495 many all day riding areas (additional fee applies for delivery). you this fine motorbike. PCH125, 2013, Orange, 663 miles, $1,898 Ninja 300, 2015, Green, $4,999 [email protected] — www.advcycles.com 2014 Harley Davidson FXDB Dyna Street Bob - $13,995 Well-maintained bikes and a rider-owned company makes us a great 2010 Triumph Thunderbird ABS – Set up for comfortable long-distance Suzuki Ninja 300, 2016, Red, $4,999 DUCATI SUZUKI KAWASAKI YAMAHA 2015 Harley Davidson FXDB Dyna Street Bob - $13,995 travel with several nice extras such as Triumph saddlebags, windscreen, adventure for the day, weekend or longer. 2015 Harley Davidson FXDL Dyna Low Rider - $14,495 floorboards, “Comfort” seat with rider backrest, and more. Has the GSX-R600, 2013, Blue, 3,190 miles, $9,998 Ninja 650 EX650, 2016, $7,199 ASK ABOUT OUR SPECIAL $200 3-HOUR INTRO TO DUAL SPORT 2013 Harley Davidson FXDWG Dyna Wide Glide - $12,495 factory 1700cc big- kit. A few minor cosmetic blems but in nice GSX-R600, 2013, Blue, 948 miles, $9,498 Ninja 650, 2015, $6,998 RIDING TOUR/INSTRUCTION! ALSO SCHEDULING WOMEN’S DIRT The Old Man shape overall. Only 16.5k miles. Just $7,500. GSX-R750, 2014, Black, 1,425 miles, $10,498 Ninja ZX-10R ABS - 30th Anniversary Edition, 2015, Green, CALL AND DUAL SPORT TRAINING CLASSES! **WE OFFER LOWERED DUAL The Old Truck 2000 Harley Davidson FXSTD Softail Deuce - $8,995 SPORT BIKES! 2007 Moto Guzzi Breva 1100 – Just 20,900 miles, excellent condition. GW250, 2013, Black, 449 miles, $3,498 Ninja ZX-10R, 2015, Black, $14,299 Dave is working 2004 Harley Davidson XL883C Sportster 883 - $4,995 Great all-around bike with character. Includes Guzzi windscreen and Joe 530-748-3505- www.sierradualsport.com Dave’s Cycle Transport 2010 Harley Davidson XL883N Sportster Iron 883 - $6,995 Rocket tailbag. Just $5,245.00! V-Strom 650 DL650 Touring bike, 2011, Black, 11,166 miles, $5,998 Ninja ZX-10R, 2016, Black, $14,999 San Francisco-Bay Area and Beyond… 2014 Harley Davidson XL883N Sportster 883 Iron - $7,995 2014 Ducati Diavel Strada – 4.8k miles and in showroom condition! Gladius SFV650, 2009, White, 3,281 miles, $4,998 Ninja ZX-6R 636 - 30th Anniversary Edition, 2015, Green, $10,998 24 Hour Service EVENT SERVICES 2014 Harley Davidson XL883N Sportster 883 Iron - $7,995 Thousands of dollars in extras from Ducati Performance, Rizoma, Sato, LS650 S40, 2011, White, 2,804 miles, $4,498 Ninja ZX-6R 636, 2015, Black, CALL Your local shop is an is shop local Your (415)824-3020 — www.davescycle.com Clearwater, et al. Looks stunning! 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Proper care and support TRIUMPH SPECIALS 2003 Harley Davidson V-Rod Anniversary - $7,995 GS500F, 2009, Black, 69 miles, $3,998 Versys 650 ABS, 2014, Green, $6,998 EXPERT Service & Repair Promotions” We a number of NEW ’14 and ’15 Triumph motorcycles that need to find DL650 ABS, 2015, Blue, 1,030 miles, $7,498 Versys 650 ABS, 2015, CALL Bavarian Cycle Works specializes in new and vintage BMW, modern If you’re planning a M/C event of any sort, whether an Open House, a 2014 Harley Davidson V-Rod Night Rod Special - $13,995 a new home NOW! Prices are ROCK BOTTOM, and cannot be combined GSX-R600, 2011, White, 5,886 miles, $8,498 Versys 650LT, 2015, Green, CALL TRIUMPH and select motorcycle models. Our staff includes a Master Special Sale Event, a Competition Event or even a Rally, a “pleasant but Honda with any other manufacturer or dealer incentives. Freight and Prep Certified Technician and personnel each with over 25 years experience. Burgman 400, 2014, Black, 426 miles, $4,998 Vulcan 1700 Vaquero, 2015, Green, CALL not pushy” voice (and your choice of music) can make a huge difference 2013 Honda CBR250R ABS - $3,995 charges are included in all prices below. Delivery available! Nearly all scheduled motorcycle maintenance can be completed within a in the excitement and remembrance of your event. SYM Vulcan 1700 Voyager, 2015, Black, CALL 2005 Honda CBR600RR - $5,995 2014 America 2-Tone – $9,644, now $7,585! one day turnaround time. All bikes kept securely indoors, day and night. Have P.A. / Will Travel... Fiddle 125, 2013, Blue, 804 miles, $1,998 Vulcan 900 Classic LT, 2015, Black, $8,499 Come see us! 2008 Honda CBR600RR - $7,495 2014 Commander 1700 – $16,744, now $13,280! I have been “The Voice” of Ducati Island at Moto G.P. (‘98 - ‘06) the 2010 Honda CBR600RR Leyla Edition - $7,995 2015 Speedmaster 900 – $9,444, now $7,600!2 Triumph Vulcan 900 Classic, 2015, Black, $7,999 Wilseyville Hare Scrambles (‘98 - ‘12) ...Most recently; La Ducati Day, La Honda, MOTORAMA Car Show, Lafayette, sub’ Announcer at Continental Motorcycle & ATV Hauling 2001 Honda Rebel 250 - $2,495 015 Rocket Touring 2300 – $18,544, now $14,900! Bonneville, 2013, Orange, 8,239 miles, $7,198 Vulcan 900 Custom, 2015, Black, $7,998 Bonneville, 2013, Purple, 1,922 miles, $7,498 Vulcan S ABS, 2015, Black, $7,898 Sports Car Challenge Laguna Seca, Santa Rosa flattrack for Circle Bell Sonoma, Marin, Napa & Mendocino Counties 2002 Honda Rebel 250 - $2,795 2015 Street Triple 675 ABS – $10,444, now $8,400! Motorsports... and more... References and resume available. Find me 24 hour Roadside Pickup 2002 Honda Rebel 250 - $2,995 2015 Street Triple RX – $12,244, now $11,000! Bonneville, 2014, Black, 3,715 miles, $8,495 Vulcan S, 2015, Green, $6,899 on FaceBook: “Duffyduzz Promotions” for all contact info - or - call 510- 292-9391 - or - E/M: [email protected] 707-843-6584 2001 Honda Shadow 750 ACE - $3,995 2015 Speed Triple 1050 ABS – $13,844, now $11,000! Daytona 675, 2014, Black, 1,679 miles, $9,998 Z1000 ABS, 2015, Green, CALL

Insured & Licensed 2008 Honda Shadow 750 Aero - $4,795 2015 Dayton 675 ABS – $13,044, now $10,400! Daytona 675R, 2014, White, 1,795 miles, $11,998 ZX-14R ABS 30th Anniversary Edition, 2015, Red, CALL California Motor Carrier Permit 2006 Honda CRF250R - $2,995 2015 Daytona 675 R – $15,044, now $12,000! Speed Triple ABS, 2012, Red, 7,939 miles, $8,998 ZX-14R ABS, 2015, Green, CALL www.mcmotorcycletransport.com 2007 Honda CRF250R 290cc Big Bore - $3,495 2015 Tiger 800 XRx – $13,544, now $11,160! Street Triple R, 2010, Orange, 11,158 miles, $6,998 Lance Powersports Devils Detail Motorcycle Detailing [email protected] Street Triple R, 2012, Black, 6,992 miles, $8,498 Havana Classic 125, 2015, Black, Blue, Red, White $1,899 2013 Honda CRF250R - $4,995 2015 Explorer 1200 – $16,944, now $13,740! Detailing vintage, classic, modern motorcycles Daytona 675, 2014, Black, 3,705 miles, $9,998 Havana Classic 150, 2015, Black, White $2,198 2008 Honda CRF450R - $4,495 2015 Explorer 1200 XC – $18,544, now $15,000! 415 - 439 - 9275 Daytona 675, 2013, Black, 1,672 miles, $9,498 PCH 125, 2015, Black, Red, White, Yellow $1,899 DEALER CLASSIFIED Kawasaki 2015 Trophy SE – $20,544, now $16,680! www.thedevilsdetailing.com 2013 Kawasaki Ninja 300 - $4,495 2015 Bonneville Newchurch – $9,744, now $8,480! Daytona 675 R, 2012, White, 4,472 miles, $10,998 PCH 150, 2015, Green, Red, White $2,198 [email protected] 2014 Kawasaki Ninja 300 - $4,495 2015 Bonneville T100 2-Tone – $10,644, now $8,400! Bonneville, 2014, White, 5,303 miles, $7,498 SYM established 2007 2014 Kawasaki Ninja 300 SE - $4,995 Prices shown do not include taxes, DMV fees/electronic filing, doc, CA Scrambler, 2012, Black, 1,732 miles, $7,998 Citycom 300i, 2015, Gray, Red, White $4,898 Greatness can be in your detail! tire fee. All motorcycles are subject to prior sale, so do not delay! Scrambler, 2014, Blue, 1,040 miles, $8,498 HD200 EVO scooter, 2015, Gray, White $3,495

you have to pay for shipping for pay have to you to try way, a different size…each every time. real, meet Plus, you keyboardlive some not people, cowboy from another time zone. 2014 Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS - $4,995 2014 Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS - $5,295 Speed Triple, 2013, Yellow, 123 miles, $9,998 HD200, 2015, Gray, Red $3,495 Michael’s Motorsports 2008 Kawasaki Ninja 650R - $4,995 Bonneville, 2014, Black, 988 miles, $8,998 T2 250i, 2015, Black, $3,799 BMW Motorcycle Service, Repair, Restoration 1995 Kawasaki Ninja ZX600-F ZX-6R - $3,995 Yamaha T2 250i, 2015, White, $3,798 Air heads, Oil Heads, Hex heads, K Bikes, F Bikes 2013 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 636 - $8,995 FZ09, 2014, Gray, 4,689 miles, $7,298 Wolf Classic 150, 2015, White, Red, Black, $2,999 880 Piner Rd. Ste 46 Dubbelju Motorcycle Santa Rosa, CA 95403 Rentals / Storage 2007 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic - $4,495 FZ1, 2006, Silver, 7,740 miles, $6,498 ZERO YZF-R6, 2015, Blue, 899 miles, $10,495 DS 12.5 Demo, 2015, White, $12,995 (707) 575-4132 All advertised vehicles are technically and operationally sound and KTM factory original. Components which show even a trace of wear or fatigue 1997 KTM 200EXC LE JackPiner Limited Collectors Edition - $3,995 Zuma 125, 2014, Gray, 84 miles, $3,198 FX 5.7 Demo, 2015, Black, $9,998 are replaced. You get a motorcycle which, while it may have some miles, SF MOTO FZ09, 2014, Red, 975 miles, $7,498 SR 12.5 Demo, 2015, Red, $14,995 has been routinely, expertly maintained. 2013 KTM 1190 Adventure - $13,495 2003 KTM 450 SX - $3,495 275 8th Street at the corner of Folsom FZ6-R, 2013, Blue, 1,509 miles, $6,498 2012 BMW R1200GS 45k miles (Titan Silver) 110hp, 1170cc, 6 Speed, FZ6-R, 2012, Black, 808 miles, $5,998 shaft drive, braided steel brake and clutch hoses, computer, heated 2014 KTM 690 Duke - $7,995 San Francisco - 415-255-3132 USED MOTORCYCLES: grips, BMW Vario panniers, centerstand, LED rear light, luggage rack, 2008 KTM 990 Super Duke - $8,495 www.sfmoto.com FZ07, 2015, Red, 12,318 miles, $6,498 adjustable levers, hand protectors, adjustable windshield, adjustable 2000 Aprilia Falco Polaris USED INVENTORY NEW INVENTORY seat, cast aluminum wheels, recently serviced, CA tags till Jun 2016. Honda Super nice sport cruiser, only 2,500 miles on the clock, always garaged, Only asking $9,500 or best offer! 2015 Polaris Slingshot SL - $22,995 All used motorcycles come with a 3 month warranty / 12 month roadside clean title. A true Italian motorcycle, fast and stylish, mechanically in assistance. We thoroughly inspect our used inventory. If brakes are worn CB1000R, 2013, White, $10,998 2013 KTM 1190 Adventure (Grey/Orange) 148hp, 1195cc Liquid Suzuki excellent condition. Derestricted by dealer. Current registration. Asking MOTO TIRE GUY over 60%, new pads are installed. If tires are worn beyond 60%, new CB1000R, 2014, Black, $10,998 $4250. Call Thomas at (510) 812-8331 or email [email protected] cooled Twin, 6speed, chain drive, hydraulically operated PASC anti- 2006 Suzuki GSX-R600 - $6,995 tires are installed. If chain & sprockets have too much play, we install www.MotoTireGuy.com hopping clutch, Recently serviced, CA tags till Mar 2016. Only asking new chain & sprockets. CB1000R, 2015, Red, $11,760 Motorcycle Tire Services to get CityBike $10,550.00 or best offer! 2007 Suzuki GSX-R600 - $6,495 Two Beemers and a CT BMW CB1100, 2014, Black, $9,998 San Francisco - Bay Area 2009 Suzuki GSX-R600 - $7,495 2006 K1200S - Mint, all optons delivered to your door F800R with ABS, 2012, Silver, 8,890 miles, $7,998 CB300F, 2015, Red, $3,999 (415) 601-2853 2012 Suzuki GSX-R600 - $8,995 2000 1150GS - Mint, Ohlins by the meanest, most S1000 RR, 2014, White, 1,521 miles, $13,998 CB500F ABS, 2015, White, $6,198 Order your tires online, Zero CA sales tax plus 2012 Suzuki GSX-R600 - $8,995 1977 CT90 - Good

you, and need them. you The changeInternet your oil. won’t stayopen The an Internetwon’t extra 20 minutes can so you buy a tire can so you ride Sunday. on fit,If the apparel buy doesn’t you Free UPS Ground, then have a Preferred Installer S1000 RR, 2013, White, 3,417 miles, $12,998 CB500F, 2015, White, $5,198 psychotic, well-armed 2012 Suzuki GSX-R600 - $9,995 Contact [email protected] in your local area do the installation and save! CB500X, 2014, White, $5,498 2013 Suzuki GSX-R600 - $9,495 C600, 2013, Silver, 307 miles, $7,498 Please visit website for details. branch the Government 2011 Suzuki GSX-R750 - $8,995 Ducati CB500X, 2015, Black, $5,998 Ed Meagor’s BSA has to beat you with. 2011 Suzuki GSX-R750 - $9,495 848, 2010, Black, 581 miles, $9,498 CBR1000RR, 2015, $14,199 BSA 500 Single Empire Star 2009 Suzuki GSX-R1000 - $9,495 MONSTER 1100 Evo, 2013, Black, 3,137 miles, $10,498 CBR300R, 2015, $3,998 Cheap $10,000 Firm 2006 Suzuki SV650S - $4,495 Monster 1200 S, 2014, White, 751 miles, $13,498 CBR500R, 2014, Black, $4,998 Call Old Ed Meagor at 415.457.5423 That’s right! we’ll send the man Monster 696 ABS, 2013, Black, 2,480 miles, $8,498 CBR500R, 2015, $5,698 That’s right! Ed sent his phone number, so if you’ve been wanting to give to your mail hole once a month , we Eaglerider BMW Ducati & Honda 2008 Suzuki Boulevard S40 - $3,395 CBR600RR, 2015, Black, $11,298 him a call about his sweet BSA, now’s the time! Clean, well maintained motorcycles for sale. 2008 Suzuki Boulevard S40 - $3,995 MULTISTRADA1200/S ABS, 2013, Gray, 21,553 miles, $14,598 for an entire year delivering the CBR650F, 2015, $8,499 -CityBike Classifieds Editor 136 S. Linden Avenue Ste H 2011 Suzuki Boulevard C50T - $3,495 Streetfighter 1099, 2011, White, 6,790 miles, $10,998 latest issue of CityBike. CRF100F, 2013, Red, $2,498 South San Francisco, CA 94080 Triumph Monster 796 ABS, 2014, Red, 4,529 miles, $9,498 Hypermotard 821, 2015, Black, 1,657 miles, $11,495 CRF110F, 2015, Red, $2,099 HELP WANTED: (415) 905-0771 2014 Triumph Street Triple R ABS Team Empire Special Edition - $9,495 MOTOR WORKS BMW PARTS Just send a check for $30 to: Panigale 899, 2014, Red, 2,200 miles, $13,498 CRF250L, 2015, Red, $4,999 [email protected] 2012 Triumph Speed Triple - $8,495 Desmoto-Sport Take a European trip this year! Monster 796 ABS, 2014, Red, 7,578 miles, $9,298 CRF50F, 2016, Red, $1,399 PO Box 18738 BMW 2012 Triumph Tiger Explorer - $10,995 Desmoto-Sport is the Bay Area’s premier European sports bike Visit www.motorworks.co.uk Hypermotard 796, 2011, Red, 803 miles, $8,495 CTX1300, 2014, Black, $14,498 performance shop specializing in Ducati, Triumph, MV Agusta, , 2011 S1000RR, Thunder Grey Metallic, 7,500 mi, $9,500 2014 Triumph Thunderbird Commander ABS - $11,995 • Huge range of new and used parts and accessories for all models from Oakland, CA 94619. CTX700, 2014, Red, $6,998 and BMW, offering dedication to quality that sport bike enthusiasts have

ere at CityBike at ere strongly believe that while the Internet Genuine 2012 K1300S, Titanium Silver Metallic, 21,000 mi, $11,250 Yamaha come to rely upon. We are currently hiring Motorcycle Technicians. 1970 onwards be sure to include your name, Buddy 125, 2012, White, 306 miles, $2,498 CTX700N, 2014, Black, Red $6,498 Honda 2006 Yamaha YZF R6 - $5,495 Benefits include health, dental and vision, paid vacation and major • UK’s largest independent, 25 years experience address, & phone number! CTX700N, 2015, $6,999 2013 NC700X, Silver 22,500 mi, $4,300 2006 Yamaha YZF R6 - $6,995 Honda holidays, sick pay. All levels of experience will be considered. Please • Competitive prices, fast shipping CBR300R, 2015, White, 2,400 miles, $3,998 Forza, 2015, Red, $5,599 email your resume and salary requirements to scott@desmotosport. 2014 CB500F Black 19,000 mi, $3,600 2008 Yamaha YZF R6 - $6,695 com. • Expert and friendly advice available or use Paypal! 2009 Yamaha FZ6R - $4,495 CBR500R, 2013, Black, 3,242 miles, $4,298 Fury, 2015, CALL • Trade customers welcome Goldwing F6B, 2015, $20,499 [email protected] H is great entertainment, a it’s terrible place buy to stuff.Your Local Motorcycle Shop needs 2012 Yamaha FZ6R - $5,995 CBR600RR, 2012, Black, 4,018 miles, $9,998 Screw The Internet. Support your Local Motorcycle Shop. Support Internet. Local your Motorcycle The Screw CBR250R, 2012, Blue, 274 miles, $3,498 Goldwing, 2015, CALL March 2016 | 24 | CityBike.com March 2016 | 25 | CityBike.com Tankslapper

Scranton Law Firm is currently our go-to am writing. The system is broken. Thank you 2016), presumably because of the “tasteful Help, I’ve for questions about new legislation, like “Is for your consideration and for all your great nude” Sam mentioned. Johnny Law gonna light me up for using a stories! Fallen Into The Sena headset under the recently amended Could you please tell me what Italian We must admit we don’t know much about Legal System Section 27400 of the vehicle code?” restaurant Sam was talking about? I would And I salvage bikes, what with the constant love to check it out, maybe take my old ‘02 OCD-Store Monster down there. Keep up the good work Can’t Loyal guys! Get Up JC from… wait, JC, like, Jesus CityBike reader Brian from the South Bay Christ? sent in this photo. Apparently he brought his John, that old-school Italian ristorante Neil own quality reading material to some boring is a great little place in the Castro called Wow. First we quote from from… sporting event. Good planning, Brian. the Sausage Factory. Check it out—Sam The Bible in News, Clues well, he didn’t recommends the Penne de la Mama, the and Rumors, and now tell us, so let’s say Spaghetti Angela and the Bruschetta, and Jesus Christ is writing, he’s from Detroit, Oregon, emailed to ask the place has lots of character to go along presumably from a first-class for help lawyering up, because if anyone with your Monster. Oh, and of course that cloud in heaven. gets into trouble on bikes, it’s the CityBike tasteful nude. Wrecking Crew. Well, also the Iron Order, You have been sending copies but those guys apparently get a free pass. of CB to the Orange County Yell at us (or just say hey) at editor@ I am used to seeing one or two ads from CA D-Store for years and I citybike.com or talk to us on our Facebook lawyers who specialize in motorcycle issues have been picking up a copy page at facebook.com/CityBikeMag. You in City Bike. I just picked up Feb issue and there. As you probably know, can also send us an old-timey paper letter, neither of them are in this issue. Would you they closed for a few months which we think is pretty damn cool. Those be able to send me their numbers? Thanks so to refresh the joint and now go to CityBike Magazine, PO Box 18738, much. I ride often. that they are open I haven’t Oakland 94619. been able to pick up a copy Extra points for crazy / creative shit. What do It’s cool, Neil from Detroit—you don’t of CB. They said that they those points get you? Let us know if you find need to prove anything to us. Whether you haven’t been receiving out. ride often, or just often enough to get lit up them. Please keep sending for the occasional rolling burnout, we’re on them. There are a few of us your side. that value the tactile feel of Send Us Your Stuff Bonjour, Thorman and Burns are recent reading materials. Yours is advertisers in these hallowed pages. a unique publication (esp Scott Storey helped Editor Surj out of an the constant editorializing expensive pickle up Red Bluff way, and - I love it) that I have not found anywhere else. Even your ads I find interesting. Your publication is great at capturing the moto culture in the Bay area. I wish we had something similar stream of the latest and greatest in the SoCal area. Keep up the good work and moorsickles arriving at the gilded doors [email protected] please keep sending CB to the OC D-Store. of our luxurious compound as reward for Thanks. suckling up so favorably to the industry’s PO Box 18783 teat. Frankly, the steady flow of payola- Oh, so Jesus appears to be in Orange bikes has gotten so out of hand that we’ve Oakland, CA 94619 County somewhere. That’s odd. Maybe he had to request that manufacturers only just visits regularly. send us limited edition models—unridden, and Anyway, Jesus, we’ve got your back. You accompanied by a bag of and any other disciples of CityBike should M&Ms, minus the green be able to get copies of the Good Mag to go ones, of course. along with your Good Book at the newly- reopened OC D-Store around the fourth But seriously, we’ve week of every month. And if anyone tells actually talked about you they’re not receiving them, they’re a further exploring the liar—damn them to hell for us, ok? topic of salvage stress, so if you’ve encountered Unsalvageable difficulty getting a salvage One of our readers sent us the following title in the city, send email using an Earthlink address, which us your story at rftc@ makes us wonder if perhaps there was a citybike.com. And if any freakin’ time machine involved too. of you actually have a time machine, we’d be Hello CB, another faithful reader chiming in interested in checking that pitching a story. This one about salvage titles out too. in San Francisco. The process is so onerous. You need two different inspections. There Character Loading: is only one company doing brake and tire Italian Food and inspections in the whole city, and of course, the duplication of effort to get an appointment at Italian Bikes the CHP for the same thing. Not to mention John from San Mateo if that one auto business goes out of business, emailed to ask what there will be no where to get completion for restaurant Sam visited a salvage title in San Francisco. Why isn’t on our Aprilia Caponord there one inspector at any DMV to do these Rally 1200 test bike (“ADV Capo-bilities” – January inspections is absurd, and the reason why I Photo: Angelica Rubalcaba An DeYoung pauses to contemplate exactly what Editor Surj has gotten her into, March 2016 | 26 | CityBike.com shortly after being chased out of the last “photo shoot location” by private security. Photo: Angelica Rubalcaba BMW MOTORCYCLES OF SAN FRANCISCO BMW MOTORCYCLES OF WALNUT CREEK 790 BRYANT STREET 1255 PARKSIDE DRIVE SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94107 WALNUT CREEK, CA 94596 WWW.BMWMOTORCYCLE.COM WWW.BMWMCWALNUTCREEK.COM 415-503-9988 925-938-8373