Home//MCN/18 August 2021/In This Issue
MCN|18 August 20217 DAYS IN 60 SECONDSINSIDE YOUR 3-IN-1 SPECIALBallsy Binder pulls a slick-tyred blinderWet and wild. No, not a standard UK summer, but the last few laps of MotoGP in Austria at the weekend. And Brad Binder couldn’t have played more of a blinder after deciding to hang it out in the monsoon having watched the race leaders scythe into pitlane in search of grippier rubber. What a thrilling flag-to-flag prelude to Silverstone – which isn’t shy of the odd shower come race day. Head to the Sport section for full analysis of the race weekend fallout – and head to our Bank Holiday Special for a great British MotoGP preview, too.Austria analysis P70BANK HOLIDAY SPECIALGet planning for next week’s summer Bank Holiday with great events, destinations, and the British MotoGP!RIDE BETTER NOW!Feeling a bit…2 min
MCN|18 August 2021Race is on to win over loW residentsNEWS EDITORThe organisers of the Isle of Wight Road Races (IWRR) have moved to address the concerns of local residents, after a local parish councillor claimed the organisers had taken a “lackadaisical” approach to communications before the organisers ran their first meeting.The IWRR is a proposed road race that will take place on the island between April 20-23, 2022. The event was announced shortly after the Diamond Races, which have been postponed due to the pandemic, but unlike the Diamond Races, which were to be time trials with a single rider against the clock, the IWRR would see a mass start with up to 15 riders on the grid.The plan is for a 12.4-mile course through Chale, Shorwell and Brighstone using a long stretch of the Military Road. The races…3 min
MCN|18 August 2021Zed goes extra retroKawasaki are gunning for the retro bike top spot after revealing a new Z900RS SE model featuring beefier suspension components, uprated brakes and a striking ‘Yellow Ball’ 1970s tribute paintjob. Set to be priced at £12,499 and expected to arrive between January and February 2022, the SE is based on the standard 948cc four-cylinder RS roadster.Immediately distinguished by its new colours – inspired by the 1972 Z1 Super Four model – it also gets new red RS badging below the rolled seat, gold coloured cast rims, and a black FI cover and radiator side covers. Away from the cosmetics though there’s an Öhlins S46 rear shock complete with a remote preload adjuster for some added bling-factor. Separate chambers for oil and gas are said to provide an improved ride.There’s also…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Commander in ChiefNEWS EDITOR‘It only took five minutes of brainstorming’Hot on the heels of the production version of the Chief, Indian have released the first of three customs. The first one, seen here, is known as the Cox–Keino Chief as it’s been built by Paul Cox and Keino Sasaki – two well–regarded customisers.The pair have not worked together for over 15 years, since they built a bike as a tribute to Indian Larry, one of the world’s finest custom builders, following his untimely death.“The Chief was already a little bit retro, but with modern touches that would make a cool version of an early chopper,” says Cox. “When Keino and I first spoke about the project, we already knew how the other thinks and works, so it only took about five minutes…2 min
MCN|18 August 2021Back to the startLong before Harley-Davidson made V-twins that go potato-potato, they built lightweight singles that were pretty much beefed-up bicycles. In fact, William Harley was working at a bicycle factory when he came up with the idea of sticking an engine in a bicycle frame, so that his good pal Arthur Davidson could go fishing and “take the hard work out of pedaling”.So it is that H-D have come nearly full circle with a new subsidiary that takes the hard work out of cycling. The spin-off is named Serial 1, after their first ever motorcycle, and makes a few different models. They’ve been around in the States for a while but have only just made their way over to the UK.We took a spin on the peculiarly named MOSH/CTY, designed as a…2 min
MCN|18 August 2021WIN A PAIR OF SIDI ADVENTURE 2 GORE BOOTSWe’ve got together with Sidi to give away a pair of Adventure 2 Gore boots. The first version of these boots gained a loyal following, becoming almost the default choice among experienced adventure riders, offering good protection for the shin and the ankles, while still being flexible enough to walk in.The new and improved boot offers a full grain Technomicro Microfibre and suede upper, lined with Gore-Tex waterproof-breathable membrane. It features a non-slip rubber sole with a nylon inner and removeable arch support. The boot is secured with a Velcro strap and two buckles and has plastic support on the ankle area.HOW TO ENTERSimply visit www.motorcyclenews.com/winsidiadventure2 and submit your details to be included in the prize draw. Good luck!TERMS AND CONDITIONS The prize draw closes at midnight on August, 31…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021BUY IT NOW‘Limited edition? Limited success...’Over the years firms have – with varying degree of success – attempted to use ‘limited edition’ paint schemes as a way of tempting buyers to part with cash. I use this expression with quote marks around it because some UK importers have simply brought in US-spec paintjobs and passed them off as ‘special’. So do any actually add value?Kicking off with the good, Suzuki chose to celebrate the GSX-R’s 30th anniversary in 2005 with ‘limited edition’ GSX-R600 and 750 models in a beautiful retro paint scheme. Top marks for style (aside from the 750’s blue chain) but the fact they weren’t actually limited sees it only add a few quid to the price.Onto the bad and the 2005 Yamaha YZF-R46. How Yamaha managed to balls-up a…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021‘A long ride arrives at two destinations’Escapism takes many forms. One human’s heaven is another human’s hell. After a heavy week at work you might find a day on the golf course to be the ultimate relaxtion, or maybe you prefer to cheer on your football team, or just down a few pints of your favourite giggle-juice with mates at the pub.Me? I get on a motorbike and go for a long ride, usually the sort of distance that means even other bikers brand me an idiot. But hear me out, there’s a logic to my miles.Of course, my idea of a long ride might be different to yours. For me, it’s somewhere between 500 and 750 miles in one hit, stopping only for fuel, the odd picture and essential bladder relief.I try to nail one…2 min
MCN|18 August 2021MCN LAWQ ‘Some satnavs are dangerous’I would be interested to know about the rules about fitting aftermarket satellite navigation systems in cars. I have seen them on windscreens partially blocking the driver’s view. Yesterday I passed a driver with the satnav at eye height right in front of her face. I am concerned that a badly positioned satnav like this could obscure a biker (along with anything of our size) and must be a danger and even illegal.Florence, LeicesterA I cannot find any regulations which refer specifically to satnavs, but the following are relevant:• Section 40A Road Traffic Act 1988 as amended by Road Traffic Act 1991: “A person is guilty of an offence if he uses, causes or permits another to use a motor vehicle on a road when: The…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021YOUR TRIPReaders Jennifer McLean and Callum MacMillanThe trip Scotland to the Lake District and YorkshireHow many miles? 712When to do it SummerTime required Five daysTell us about the ride The best road we found was heading along the A684. The views were fantastic, roads were fantastic and it completely took me by surprise how beautiful it was. Another highlight was day four when we went up and down the North Yorkshire Moors through Guisborough, Hutton-le-hole, Pickering, Goathland, Whitby, Scarborough and Oliver’s Mount. Overall it was a very good trip, the weather was fantastic, mostly. However, woke up in Scarborough on the last morning to 11° and rain but by the time we hit Alston it was 23° and sunny! But did you really tour if you didn’t get wet?Send your trips…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021MILEAGE HUNTERS‘First ride on my Speed Triple’R5K MEMBERS TOMASZ KOLODZIEJ, SAFFRON DAVIES-DEAN, PAUL DAVIES AND PAWEL TULACZI joined three friends for a 250-mile ride to the south coast and back. It was my first trip on my Triumph SpeedTriple, and we bagged this selfie on the A27 between Brighton and Eastbourne. The Triumph is the best bike I’ve ever had!‘Three-week UK tour’R5K MEMBERS LIZ AND GRAHAM HUMPHREYSA selfie from the back of the bike in Cornwall, with St Michael’s Mount in the background. We went away for three weeks, visiting Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Wales, the Lake District, and Scotland, before finishing in Yorkshire. We’re now planning for a riding trip to Norway in 2022.‘Exploring the Shropshire hills’R5K MEMBER BRIAN JONESI grabbed this shot of my 2009 Rieju Marathon whilst out on…2 min
MCN|18 August 2021DIVE IN TO THE DETAIL★ ★ ★ ★ ☆£10,202 Yamaha MT-09 SPEngine 889cc 12v DOHC inline tripleFrame Aluminium twin spar, aluminium swingarmSuspension 41mm KYB forks, fully-adjustable. Öhlins shock, fully-adjustable.Front brake 2 x 298mm discs with four-piston radial calipers. Cornering ABSRear brake 1 x 245mm disc with one-piston caliper. Cornering ABSSeat height 825mm★ ★ ★ ★ ☆£10,385* Ducati MonsterEngine 937cc 8v DOHC l/c V-twinFrame Aluminium alloy front frameSuspension 43mm usd forks, non-adjustable. Monoshock, adj preload.Front brake 2 x 320mm discs with Brembo four-piston radial caliper. Cornering ABSRear brake 1 x 245mm disc with two piston caliper. Cornering ABSSeat height 820mm*(£10,585 IN BLACK OR GREY)…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021BIG MOMENTSGP YOUNG GUNAt 19, James got a wildcard to the 1993 British 500GP with Team Great Britain on a ROC Yamaha. He was 11th and the UK’s youngest point-scorer in the premier class. He’d only been road racing for three years!FIRST BSB WINJames’ 1994 BSB win at Snetterton was not only his first BSB win, it was the Honda RC45’s first race win anywhere in the world!IN MOTOGP“Getting a call from Kenny Roberts asking if I’d race his bike in MotoGP was an amazing feeling. I substituted for Kurtis Roberts for three races and got a best of 12th in Qatar. To be honest, the V5 wasn’t as good as my R1...”ON TV“I’d always been happy to be a guest commentator and when I retired the Eurosport job was an…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021‘More super-model than prima donna’MICHAEL NEEVESCHIEF ROAD TESTERMV Agusta’s Dragster 800 RR SCS is still the last word in naked decadence, its unique looks and aggressive sound are like nothing else and it has the poise and acceleration of a superbike. But now it has friendlier road manners and smoother power, ably aided by its brilliantly useful SCS auto clutch and it’s genuinely comfortable for hours in the saddle, even for taller riders.Tweaked suspension is firm without being crashy, it’s far more stable and the colour dash brings things bang up to date. The new Dragster 800 RR SCS isn’t cheap, but now it’s more supermodel than prima donna.THE FACTS£17,970 MV Agusta Dragster RR SCSEngine 798cc 12v inline three cylinderFrame Steel trellisFront suspensionMarzocchi 43mm forks, fully adjustableRear suspensionSingle Sachs shock, fully adjustableFront brakes2 x…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Get Skye high this summerMOTORCYCLING MUST - DOS‘Finally the view breaks out, vast and otherworldly’BY SIMON WEIRBike journalist and travel writer who just can’t stop touringThere’s something about a ferry. It always says, “This is where the holiday really starts.” For me, riding over the ramp to get onboard really ramps up the excitement.Especially here, especially today. It’s early morning in Mallaig and brilliantly sunny. There are a few wispy clouds in the blue sky and a hint of mist hovering over the millpond-smooth sea. And just poking invitingly over the horizon, I can see the distant rumpled glory of the Isle of Skye.The ferry chugs sedately across the sound. I’m no sailor but I’ve never had any queasiness – just the occasional butterfly, as I look ahead to the riding. On a day…3 min
MCN|18 August 2021NOW IT’S YOUR TURNMake a trip to Skye part of a tour of the Highlands. Pick up the A82 at Tyndrum, marvel at Glencoe and onwards to Fort William. Here you can either choose to take the ferry from Mallaig via the A830, or head north and pick up the A87 to the Kyle of Lockalsh and the Syke Bridge (£2.90 toll per bike during the summer). You’ll need at least two nights, but you could spend a week roaming the roads of the Scottish west coast. The best time to visit is before the end of October and don’t forget your insect repellent!…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Motorway masterstrokeYear-round rider, weekend blaster and racetrack dwellerThe Aprilia RS660 is the most versatile sportsbike I have ever ridden. It’s got the attentiongrabbing looks, can handle itself on a trackday, and offers endless weekend thrills.This particular machine has also been mechanically sound – not one of the 700 across the globe requiring an engine swap due to issues with the conrods.In fact, outside of a slightly soft standard rear end and an unsightly left switchgear housing, I’ve struggled to find fault with it and after a series of recent minibreaks and day trips it’s now also proving its worth over distance, too.Where have I been?After over a year of restrictions, I was determined to make this summer a belter, visiting more places by bike and savouring the amazing routes on my…3 min
MCN|18 August 2021Sort your hosesSaving you money on essential bike maintenanceBRUCE DUNNMCN’s expert technician1 Don’t risk damageCoolant hoses can withstand an enormous amount of neglect without failing. But they can sustain damage over time when rubbed by a poorly routed cable, or during a crash. Even if the hose isn’t leaking but shows visible damage, like the one pictured, it’s always best to replace it. A split hose and resulting coolant leak can cause breakdowns or even a crash.BRUCE’S TIPSThe best quality replacement clips are made from stainless steel2 Check the shapeUse either original parts or a known branded option from a UK supplier Either option will give you consumer protection and technical support. Check that the kit contains the correct hoses for your bike; they should have a preformed shape that exactly matches…3 min
MCN|18 August 2021Ray on podium paceBradley Ray made a welcome return to the podium at Donington after taking full advantage of a late safety car period. With the pack bunched up, Ray was able to get the better of Peter Hickman and championship leader Jason O’Halloran on the final lap to take second. It’s the first time he has been on the rostrum since his double podium success at Oulton Park in 2019.“It’s been a long time,” Ray told MCN. “When you haven’t podiumed for a couple of years it’s quite difficult, so it’s nice to get that off my back now. When you get on the podium it can create a snowball effect so hopefully we can carry that momentum forward.”Ray now finds himself inside the Showdown positions, in eighth spot, making it three…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Vickers is on a rollRyan Vickers continued to showcase the big improvement that he’s made in 2021 following big changes to his Kawasaki. Vickers has had his swingarm modified and chassis tweaks which have helped the bike turn. He secured two top 10s, despite being demoted twice for two-second time penalties, and crashed out of an early lead in race three. “I’m always riding as hard as I can, but it’s coming so much easier,” Vickers said. “It’s nice to be able to go out there in any session and not look for a tow.”Brookes fights onThere were signs of improvement for Josh Brookes, however the problems plaguing the reigning champion remain a hinderance. A best result of fourth came in race three, but Brookes acknowledged that this was “circ*mstantial” due to mixed conditions.…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Fernadez chips away at GardnerRaul Fernandez won his fourth race of the season to set up a tantalising Moto2 title fight with KTM teammate and title leader, Remy Gardner.Fernandez put aside the messy contract dramas between KTM and Yamaha for his move to MotoGP in 2022 to focus on the Moto2 title.The Spaniard cleared his mind to score a narrow-but- convincing Austrian GP victory ahead of rising Japanese star Ai Ogura – his first Moto2 podium – with Augusto Fernandez taking third.“Before the race I could see that my future is now clear and I need to be calm about what is happening, change my mentality and focus on the Moto2 title,” said Fernandez.Series leader Remy Gardner finished a lacklustre seventh with his advantage now cut to 19 points, while last week’s Styrian GP…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Acosta on the movePedro Acosta is on target to carry the Moto3 world championship with him when he is promoted to Moto2 with Ajo KTM squad next year.Acosta was fourth in the hotly-contested Austrian GP, surprisingly unable to match his Austria 1 winning pace a week earlier. But he maintained a comfortable 41-point lead over fellow rookie and race winner Sergio Garcia.The top five riders were separated by just 0.4s with Deniz Oncu (second), Dennis Foggia (third ) and Romano Fenati (fifth). Britain’s John McPhee was seventh with a trademark late-race charge.“Coming from 14th on the grid, it was never going to be easy but it’s a solid result ahead of Silverstone next week,” said McPhee.Acosta will be joined in the KTM Moto2 squad by Augusto Fernandez who will switch camps from MarcVDS.…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Fortress Fabio is holding firmDespite not winning at the Austrian double-header, Fabio Quartararo added a key plank to his increasingly impregnable MotoGP title fortress.Most impressively he has embraced his status as Yamaha’s only hope to end a six-year title drought. And the self-admitted mental fragility that destabilised his fast but unrewarding 2020 season has been swapped for fortress Fabio.He went into the twin Spielberg races with a 34-point lead. He departed with a massive 47-point advantage and unworried that he is the one-man band on which Yamaha’s title fortunes rest.Quartararo ignored a week of political turmoil, which saw the suspension of teammate Maverick Viñales, to score a third and seventh places at a circuit that favours Ducati and KTM.He brushed aside the mind games from Suzuki rival Joan Mir who teased that Fabio might…2 min
MCN|18 August 2021Petronas pull their moneyMystery surrounds the abrupt weekend announcement of the withdrawal of Petronas sponsorship of the official Yamaha team. The knock-on effect is more obvious.A number of potential seats will disappear, in addition to those left vacant at Yamaha by Rossi and Viñales, leaving a vacuum for riders and team staff.Petronas joined MotoGP in 2019, the new satellite Yamaha team fielding Quartararo and Morbidelli. Last year the pair won six races between them, Morbidelli a close second overall.This year however, Quartararo was snaffled by the factory, Morbidelli given an outdated bike, and the “youth-training” SRT squad palmed off with factory reject Rossi.In Moto 2 and 3, the SRT (Sepang Racing Team) squads are expected to be abandoned.Bad news for McPhee, thwarting his Moto2 hopes; although Moto3 team-mate Darryn Binder may be leap-frogged…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021TT Legend John McGuinness MBE in MCN every week‘What Viñales did is a cardinal sin’The whole Viñales situation is just embarrassing. For me what he did with his bike is a cardinal sin. It’s just blatant disrespect to everyone from the people paying his wages, to the mechanics and engineers who are up all night preparing the bike. So for him to have total disrespect for his bike and team is beyond me. It’s shocking and it’s left me scratching my head as to why he’d do something so ridiculous.It’s like he’s being forced into doing something he doesn’t want to do, so if that’s the case pack it in. Stop racing and go and do something else. He’s on the best bike yet he’s clearly not enjoying it, so why bother? Don’t look for excuses - just…2 min
MCN|18 August 2021SILVERSTONE’S GREATEST RACESThe longest and one of the fastest tracks on the calendar, Silverstone is a classic. It took over the British title round from the Isle of Man in 1977, passed it to Donington Park from 1987-2009, before taking it back in 2010. One of the all-time great circuits was back.1977The Americans were coming, and Californian Suzuki rider Pat Hennen took the first GP win for a US rider. But on a damp, dismal afternoon, it wasn’t glorious. Pole starter Barry Sheene retired from fifth with a blown head gasket, whilst leaders fell by the wayside: Wil Hartog retired, and Britons Steve Parrish and John Williams crashed. Hennen was left to beat compatriot Stevie Baker by 40 seconds. Baker won that year’s FIM F750 title, becoming the first US World Champion.1979A…4 min
MCN|18 August 2021Double Brit attack in Moto2Sam Lowes’ and Jake Dixon’s campaigns haven’t quite gone to plan. Lowes’ title hopes are all but gone, whilst Dixon has struggled, in part due to a wrist injury, to replicate his form from the second half of 2020.Positive results in front of their home crowd will go a long way to ensuring that 2021 is still a year to remember. Lowes hasn’t enjoyed much luck at Silverstone. Since finishing seventh (2014) and sixth (2015), he’s failed to score points in his last three visits - including being wiped out by Johann Zarco in 2016.Dixon is yet to visit on a Kalex chassis, finishing a lowly 23rd on his KTM in 2019. The support of the British fans will go a long way in terms of motivation and pure adrenaline.…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Roberts ‘I think his heart and balls were bigger than his talent’‘His way of racing was a little more on the edge than mine’Forty years ago at the British GP at Silverstone, Jack Middelburg made history onboard his Suzuki RG500 Mk6 when he became the last ever privateer to win a 500cc GP – and he did it in style by out-smarting world champion ‘King’ Kenny Roberts on his factory Yamaha.Roberts remembers the 1981 British Grand Prix all too well. Having won one of the most legendary wheel-to-wheel battles ever in 1979 when he beat nemesis Barry Sheene in the Silverstone Grand Prix (see page 10), but two years later, the Yamaha factory rider was out-manoeuvred by a Dutch part-time racer on an underpowered Suzuki RG500 production racer.“When it came to winning the race, Jack Middelburg was certainly one of the…7 min
MCN|18 August 2021SIMON WEIR‘What I’ve learnt in 500,000 miles...’In the 15 years Simon Weir was testing motorcycles for RiDE and Bike magazines, he racked up more than 500,000 miles – mostly when compiling RiDE’s comprehensive touring guides. Since leaving the mag at the end of 2018 he’s ridden across America, Australia and New Zealand and even managed to tour the Alps in-between lockdowns last year. He’s also a RoSPA-qualified riding instructor, former courier and has been mucking about on bikes for almost 35 years. Here’s what he’s learnt in that time.Don’t rushIf you’re doing something, or riding somewhere, new – whether exploring a new country or trying off-roading or trackdays – don’t rush to think you’ve got the measure of it. You’re most likely to come unstuck about 4.2 mins after you whisper…4 min
MCN|18 August 2021‘The British GP is going to be a humdinger!’MotoGP is rarely dull – but some weeks it really does get your heart fluttering with persistent spikes of adrenaline mixed liberally with awe, disbelief and well-founded admiration.What Brad Binder did in the wildly sketchy wet conditions of the closing laps of the race was brave beyond most of our understanding. He said himself that it was like riding on ice – and you only have to watch the way his bike was squirming underneath him to see that he wasn’t exaggerating the peril.He opened the throttle and it went sideways. He closed the throttle and it went sideways. He nursed it out of line at 130mph toward corners that arrived with no hint of bite available from his cold carbon brakes. He was like a Weeble: He wobbled, but…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Was Sacoolas on the phone?Lawyers representing the family of teenage motorcyclist Harry Dunn have suggested that the woman suspected of causing his death was distracted by a mobile phone.The 19-year-old was killed near RAF Croughton in August 2019, when he was struck by a car that was being driven on the wrong side of the road. American Anne Sacoolas has admitted being behind the wheel of the car at the time. Shortly after Harry’s death, Sacoolas claimed diplomatic immunity and fled to the United States where she remains to this time. Because of her refusal to return to the UK, the Dunn family have had no option but to file a claim in the American courts in an attempt to seek justice.In the latest revelation from the case, the lawyers acting on behalf of…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Off for an icy blastHarley-Davidson have used the Sturgis rally as the perfect excuse to unveil a limited run of Street Glides with a special paintjob. Known as ‘Arctic Blast’ the scheme consists of a pearlescent white base with metallic deep blue over the top. Harley are making just 500 Street Glide Specials in the special trim, each one handfinished by Gunslinger Custom Paint in Colorado, USA. Closer inspection shows ghosted details through the different layers of paint and reflectivity including a shadowy hexagon pattern in the blue of the fairing. As you might expect a paintjob like this doesn’t come cheap, with the new look costing £6800 extra, taking the price to £31,295.…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021The future of motorcycle parkingASSISTANT EDITOR, MOTORCYCLINGA start-up firm are hoping to revolutionise the way we secure our bikes when parking in public places. Bikers Guardian have come up with a docking station design that allows you to lock the front wheel of your bike in place while denying thieves access to your front spindle, so they can’t just nick the rest of the bike.What’s more, the unit can act as a charging station for electric bikes and contains a secure, climate-controlled locker for your bike kit, too. And best of all, hydrogen fuel cell tech means the Bikers Guardian is green and doesn’t rely on being connected to mains electricity. Users will be able to check on their bike by accessing a security camera through a secure app, which is also where parking…2 min
MCN|18 August 2021No bikes at Pike PeakPikes Peak International Hill Climb have announced that motorbikes will be permanently excluded from the competition for the future.Bike racing was temporarily excluded from the event following the death of racer Carlin Dunne, who was tragically killed at the 2019 event in a crash just before the finish line. The organisers say they have taken the last two years to conduct research and consult with colleagues from other motorsports events before taking the decision.“Motorcycle competition has been part of the history of the race off-and-on since 1916, and has been both thrilling and tragic for competitors and fans alike,” explained Fred Veitch, Interim Chairman of the Board.“This has been a long process and a difficult decision, but we believe it is the right decision and one that is in the…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021NEW KIT JUST INSena Outrush R £249.99The Outrush R comes with connectivity already sorted without the need to fit cables, microphones, speakers or intercom units. The Outrush allows the wearer to pair with a smartphone to hear turn-by-turn GPS directions, listen to music or FM radio, take phone calls and chat with up to four other riders. Sizes S-XXL.www.sena.comSealey Tools Backpack £42The 480mm backpack has nine internal pockets, a separate zipped front pocket with an internal small zip pocket and two additional side pockets. A bigger version (£56.40) has three zipped pockets and 10 open pockets to keep tools organised. It also features a separate zipped front pocket with padded laptop holder.www.sealey.co.ukTucano Urbano G-ZERO gloves £129.99The G-ZERO is a four-finger outer glove that joins the ring finger and little finger, increasing warmth and…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021MAYHEM AT THE FESTIVAL!A highlight of the old BMF Show in the 1980s and 90s, Moped Mayhem racing is making its long-awaited return to Peterborough’s East of England Arena in just two weeks’ time (September 4-5). A crazy four-hour endurance race with a mix of 40 home tuned 50cc mopeds, fancy dress, and madcap on-track antics, it’s something you definitely don’t want to miss. If you want to get involved in the action it’s not too late to organise your own four-man team, contact mopedmayhem@outlook.com for more details. The Moped Mayhem race takes place on Sunday afternoon in the Live Action Arena – sponsored by Indian Motorcycle.TEST RIDES GALOREThere will be hundreds of test ride opportunities on offer with fleets from BMW, Ducati, Honda, Kawasaki, Triumph, Indian, Yamaha, Harley Davidson, KTM, Royal Enfield…2 min
MCN|18 August 2021Going Live at the NECMotorcycle Live will return this December for nine days at Birmingham’s NEC.The annual show was forced to take place online in 2020 but will recommence in the real world from Saturday, December 4 to Sunday, December 12. Alongside an array of new features and displays yet to be fully announced you’ll find a host of manufacturer and trade stands – with bikes from the likes of Suzuki, Kawasaki, Lexmoto, KTM, Mash and BMW all already confirmed.There will also be the chance for budding bikers to get their first taste of two wheels and an opportunity to meet the racing stars from across the WSB, BSB and road racing paddocks.Motorcycle Live Managing Director, Finlay McAllan, said: “We can’t wait to open the doors to Motorcycle Live this year. With the return…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Talking pointmcn.letters@motorcyclenews.commotorcyclenewsmotorcyclenewsMCNnewsMurray’s love of bikesI’m sure I speak for many who were shocked and saddened to read of Neil Murray’s passing. I have followed his articles in several magazines over the years, and his wit and knowledge have always been informative and entertaining. I did know him some 20 years ago when we both had CB400/4s (I believe he still had his) and he sold me some parts for mine. Always reliable and a good bloke to deal with, he once went out of his way to hand deliver a small plastic part to my home rather than entrust it to the post. My condolences to his colleagues and of course his family.Alan Bennett, emailLove of the old and usedOver the years Neil Murray’s brilliant individual style, infectious enthusiasm, and encyclopaedic…3 min
MCN|18 August 2021YOU NEVER FORGET YOUR FIRST BIKESend your first bike pics to: yourpics@motorcyclenews.comHONDA XL250SThis was my first proper bike, which my dear old dad helped me to buy in 1979. I paid him back though! John BradburyMV AGUSTA T125My first MV, a T125 with some DIY modifications to create a café racer. I’m now riding the MV F3 675-it’s beautiful. Mark TurnerHONDA NC750XHappy to say this Honda NC750X is my first bike – I got it last month, a week after I passed my Mod 2 test at the age of 66. David Hanco*ckHONDA CB250RSMy wife Pat on my Honda CB250RS, which I bought new in August 1981. Still got the bike and wife... and both looking good. Pete BrownBSA A10Here’s a picture of my amazing sisters Cath, Pat and Ang on our dad’s BSA. We…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021TOP TELLYFRIDAYAugust 20 10.30am, EUR2, British Speedway Individual Final: Highlights from Belle VueSATURDAYAugust 21 9.15am, EUR2, Live World Superbikes from Navarra, Spain: Superpole and Race OneSUNDAYAugust 22 11.40pm, ITV4, MotoGP Highlights from the Red Bull Ring in AustriaKEYTO CHANNELS: DRT – DISCOVERY REAL TIME DSC – DISCOVERY CHANNEL DHD – DISCOVERY CHANNEL HD EXS – EXTREME SPORTS CHANNEL EUR1 (2, HD) – EUROSPORT 1 (2, HD) MOT – MOTORSPORT.TV CH4 – CHANNEL 4 CH5 – CHANNEL FIVE BBC BBCI – BBC INTERACTIVE ESPN – ESPN CLASSIC CHANNEL ITV DST- DISCOVERY TURBO SHED – DISCOVERY SHED INST- INSIGHT SS1 (2, 3 OR X) – SKY SPORTS 1 (2,3 OR EXTRA) QUEST BTS1-BTSPORT 1 BTS2-BTSPORT2TVL-TRAVELUK…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Summer lovingGUEST ROAD TESTER£10,202 Yamaha MT-09 SP• 889cc inline triple DOHC 12v• 117.3bhp @ 10,000rpm• 190kg kerb weight£10,385 Ducati Monster• 937cc liquid-cooled V-twin DOHC 8v• 109.4bhp @ 9250rpm• 188kg kerb weightA healthy dose of sunshine makes everything seem rosy. And what better way to enjoy the sunshine than on two class-leading premium middleweight nakeds? Taking to the MCN250 today we have two new-for-2021 offerings that are certain to be at the top of the sales ratings come the end of the year. In the blue (and silver...) corner is the heavily updated Yamaha MT-09 SP. You know the story by now – a new chassis, better electronics and bigger-capacity engine have transformed the MT from a wobbly but hysterical bike into a serious middleweight weapon.In the red (or grey or black…8 min
MCN|18 August 2021‘The Ducati wins for its fun factor’GUEST TESTERVery few bikes leave you more than happy to tackle the MCN250 once again, but both the MT-09 SP and Monster feel so perfectly suited to life on the UK’s roads, that they made light work of the route. And best of all, in their own unique ways, they were absolutely brilliant fun to ride throughout. Certainly not perfect, but most definitely engaging.There is no disguising the fact the MT-09 SP is a more focused bike than the Monster, yet that’s no surprise as it has an SP badge on its side. With this in mind it is easy to forgive the Yamaha its slightly firm suspension as the ride it delivers, and the sheer drive and spirit that the new CP3 triple packs, is intoxicating. And it is…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021JAMES’ LIFE ON BIKESYamaha TY80“My first bike but quite quickly it was obvious I enjoyed the fast bits between the trials sections rather than the technical bits!”1996 WCM 500GP“500s were animals. Get it wrong and you were looking down on the bike at 100mph. Get it right and it’s stunning.”1999 GSX-R750“Tricky to set up but really good on its day. I won more races against the Dukes that year than any other four.”2000 Red Bull Ducati 996“First time I rode it I said ‘You cheating bastards’ to the team. It was so much easier to ride than the fours I’d been riding before.”2003 Petronas FP1“It was just born bad. Every time I see turquoise I feel a twinge of impending pain.”2004 Yamaha YZF-R1“Beautiful to ride. I did a whole season without crashing. Rob…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021‘Suddenly, home just wasn’t big enough’With blue skies over the courtyard, and a select few two-wheelers lining the cordoned-off car park, the excitement of the official opening of the new wing at Sammy Miller’s motorcycle museum wafts through the air even before the first guests arrive.Despite the museum being open to visitors for the past year, today is the first opportunity to formally open the new 10,000sqft wing, without Covid restrictions taking the shine off. But that’s not the only reason why the atmosphere is electric. In the car park amongst a select few of Sammy’s favourite machines stand three works ISDT Ariels, all of which are waiting to be ridden by the three original Ariel works riders – Gordon Blakeway, Ron Langston and Sammy Miller MBE – as they regroup for the very first…7 min
MCN|18 August 2021‘It’s a long detour if the ferry’s full’1 Book the ferryYou don’t have to take the Mallaig ferry: the Skye Bridge works perfectly well. But if you want to take the boat, book your crossing early… it’s a very long detour to get to the bridge if the ferry is full. Expect to pay around £16.50 (one bike, one rider) for a return trip. www.calmac.co.uk2 Pack some layersSkye has an extreme climate – and sometimes it’s changeable. An extra jumper, not to mention waterproofs, can make all the difference if the weather does turn. Be prepared for everything, even in summertime.3 Stay on the mainlandI love Skye – but it’s expensive. There’s a limited amount of accommodation and you pay a premium for it. Unless you’re camping, you’ll save a bob or three by staying on the…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021OMG, this is not the same bike!Daily rider with 45 years of experience, both on and off road. Owns 30 bikes.Right from the very first ride on the Honda CRF300 Rally I felt it suffered with its suspension… Before we go any further, I will also be the first to put my hand up and say I am not the lightest person in the world at 95kg.I did take the CRF for a bit of a blast round a mate’s field which features a cheeky little jump in the middle. I wasn’t even going very fast, but managed to get both wheels off the ground, this was fine, it was the landing that was the problem and I managed to completely bottom out both front and rear suspension. Definitely time to see what mods are out…4 min
MCN|18 August 2021‘It’s like a sportsbike on stilts!’Owners give their verdicts after a year on the roadTHE OWNERJeremy McNulty, 56, NorwichA KTM customer for over 10 years, Jeremy rides thousands of miles across Europe as well as exploring green lanes as a member of the TRFJEREMY SAYSPROS● The rugged adventure styling, such as spoked wheels and long travel suspension.● I really like the lofty riding position which allows you to see and be seen.● It’s very comfortable, especially now I’ve tailored it to suit me.● I love the individuality, owning one is like being in an exclusive club.CONS● It’s a heavy bike to manoeuvre - you need to be very surefooted in gravel car parks.● The OE tyres are awful.● The shape of the stock seat makes it unsuitable for distance work.● I don’t like the standard…5 min
MCN|18 August 2021TOP FIVE BIKING GAMES1 TT - Ride on the Edge 2 £37.99The best part is the accuracy in the reproduction of the mountain course itself. It’s a good game, but there could be more race classes, bikes, teams, and riders. Allan Murray, Newcastle Upon Tyne2 Just Cause 4 £11.00Not strictly a bike game, but you’ve 395 sq miles to explore by bike and aren’t stuck on a track. Michael Pumfrey, Inverness3 Ride 4 £25.77Over lockdown it was great for a biking fix, getting some of that freedom and looking at a wide range of bikes. Dan Benson, Norwich4 MotoGP 21 £42.95It’s great playing as your heroes and I like the historic two-stroke challenges too.Aaron Jacka, Cornwall5 Grand Theft Auto V £14Good for getting your fix, as you can pick from a variety of…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021‘He hadn’t noticed that the shock had snapped…’Most people give their bike a decent check over before taking it in for its annual MoT - but not this Yamaha FJR1300 owner. If he had he might have noticed the spring of his rear suspension was snapped in two.Sean Taylor, boss of Double 0 Motorcycles in Bedford, takes up the tale: “I’ve been MoT testing for about 17 years and that was the first coil spring I’ve seen broken. They tend to be quite strong and robust.“It was corroded due to it living outside in UK weather. That caused a weak point on the spring and he must have had a hard impact from a bump or pothole that’s caused it to break - but it was a bit of surprise, especially as it had only done 12,000…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Irwin steps up on BMWThe transition from Honda to SYNETIQ BMW hasn’t been the smoothest for Andrew Irwin, but Donington Park proved to be a clear step in the right direction for him.Irwin had good pace through practice and qualifying – securing a BMW-best of sixth on the grid – before taking his first podium on the M1000RR and two further top tens. The result will come as a big relief to Irwin, who had previously been struggling to adapt to the electronics on his M1000RR.“It’s a massive weight off my shoulders,” Irwin admitted to MCN. “You can hide from it but when you look at the results there is no hiding, it’s not been good enough to be honest. This weekend we’ve turned things around. I’m able to pass people, I’m able to…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Spa boss is ‘murdered’Nathalie Maillet, the woman credited with the rejuvenation of the Spa-Francochamps circuit has been killed in a suspected double murder/suicide at her home in Luxembourg.According to a statement issued by the public prosecutor, Maillet’s husband is believed to have shot and killed his wife and another woman before committing suicide. It said: “At 00:10, the bodies of two women and one man were discovered by the police in a house in Gouvy, all three presenting gunshot wounds. According to our information, the male voluntarily used his firearm to kill both women, including his wife, before killing himself.”Maillet became CEO of the circuit in 2016 and was on course to complete FIM and FIA hom*ologation of the renowned Belgium circuit.MCN would like to express their sincere condolences to all who have…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Mir targets 50% win rateCOLLIN YOUNG INSIGHTPaddock veteran shares insights from the weekend‘I came in because I had to think about the points’It is crunch time for Suzuki’s defending MotoGP world champion, Joan Mir. Mir and the GSX-RR were a sublime combination with their under-the-radar win in 2020. But Mir won only one race in that campaign and he knows that will not be enough to defend the title this time around.Not against the speed and consistency of Yamaha #1 Fabio Quartararo who has won four races this season and came out of the Austrian double-header with a commanding 47-point lead over Mir and Ducati’s Pecco Bagnaia.“I must win at least two or three races to get the championship and now the coming races are better for us,” Mir told MCN.“It is important to…3 min
MCN|18 August 2021AUSTRIAN MOTOGP16 Morbidelli 40 17 Bastianini 31 18 Petrucci 30 19 Rossi 28 20 Marini 27 21 Lecuona 24 22 Bradl 11 23 Pedrosa 6FINAL POSITIONS MOTOGPFINAL POSITIONS MOTO 211 Dixon +21.283 12 Di Giannantonio +21.703 13 Arbolino +21.866 14 Vierge +27.146 15 Garzo +29.128 16 Roberts +33.058 17 Bendsneyder +38.235 18 Syahrin +38.357 19 Corsi +38.643 20 Beaubier +44.344 21 Hada +46.490 22 Bulega +47.560FINAL POSITIONS MOTO 311 Suzuki +6.602 12 Salac +14.716 13 Nepa +14.920 14 Alcoba +21.668 15 Izdihar +21.976 16 Tatay +22.147 17 Fellon +22.161 18 Kunii +22.198…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Nearly man MarquezA single point felt like scant reward for MotoGP’s flag-to-flag master Marc Marquez.Top three throughout on slicks, Marquez was leading when he pitted for rain rubber with just over three laps remaining.But his hopes of just a second podium since returning from a career-threatening right arm injury vanished with a crash at turn one on the penultimate lap.He said: “It looked like rain might be our chance but it was actually the rain that cost us with the crash.”The fact Marquez was in podium contention in the dry shows the Spaniard is gradually rediscovering his Midas touch, despite the crash.And Honda aren’t taking their humbling 2021 lying down, as the Austrian weekend proved when new components were thrown at Marquez like confetti at a wedding and he barely rode the…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021So close… Rossi just misses podium #200For a few glorious minutes, Valentino Rossi’s elusive 200th MotoGP podium came within touching distance.Rossi’s gamble to stay on slick tyres on a soaked surface looked like it was paying off when the 42-year-old was stitting in third with just two laps remaining.With fans around the world poised for pandemonium, Rossi eventually finished eighth and was less than six seconds away from a history-making rostrum.He said: “It was unbelievable and the point when I was on for the podium was super exciting.…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021‘There’s so much to do on two wheels’Don’t worry, you’ve not got your weekends mixed up - the Bank Holiday isn’t for another week yet! But rather than tell you what’s on when it’s already too late to plan for the weekend, we thought we’d give you ten days’ warning to get yourself sorted.And there’s so much you can do to turn the final big biking bank holiday of the year into one that helps reverse the impact of recent riding restrictions. To help you find places to go, things to see and do, and destinations to aim for, we’ve pulled together an essential guide to what’s hot (and hopefully the weather will be, too). From chilling out at a biker café with your mates on a glorious rideout, to nailing your bike down the quarter-mile strip…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021The ultimate Grand Prix circuitMATTHEW BIRT INSIGHTGetting the inside line on grand prix racing since 1996How much do MotoGP riders adore testing their skill and bravery on one of the world’s most historic and iconic race tracks? Well, Valentino Rossi once famously described the buzz of a fast lap around Silverstone’s blindingly rapid and technical layout as an experience ‘better than sex’.Interesting analogy, but the 18-corner layout certainly has a mix of everything that makes for a great Grand Prix track. A heady mix of high-speed straights, fast changes of direction and hard braking zones make it a firm favourite with the paddock.You need aggression, precision, and bravery to master Silverstone’s long 3.67-mile layout and it’s one of the few tracks on the calendar where a MotoGP bike can truly unleash its full potential.Horsepower…4 min
MCN|18 August 2021SUPPORT CLASS1986The 80cc class was dominated by Spain’s Derbi versus the Swiss-built Krauser. Ian McConnachie, promoted to the Krauser team after three lap records, beat defending champ Stefan Dorflinger by inches.1978-1984Angel Nieto is equal with Kork Ballington on six wins, every year from 1978 to 1984, with one misfire in 1980. All were 125 (Minarelli, Garelli), contributing to his record 62 in the class. What a legend.2010Moto2 arrived - and with it one of the closest-ever Silverstone finishes. After 39 furious minutes, Jules Cluzel led Tom Luthi, Julian Simon and Scott Redding, over the line within half a second.2015This really had been Danny Kent’s year. He arrived with five wins, most of them by miles, and led Enea Bastianini by 45 points. In the wet, another massive win stretched it to…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021McPhee’s final chance?If anybody needs a big result at Silverstone, it’s John McPhee. The Scot has endured a tough season, both on and off the track, and with his future still uncertain this may be his final chance, in Moto3 at least, to give his home fans something to cheer about. McPhee’s best result at Silverstone came in 2015, finishing sixth on the RTC Honda. On his day, and if he can stay out of trouble, McPhee can fight for at least the podium. One thing that is certain is that the man to beat is Pedro Acosta. In a class which is supposed to be unpredictable and tight, the 17-year-old rookie has turned things upside down. He’s a level above the rest and it’s easy to see how advanced his ability…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021‘What a loss’Together with Wil Hartog and Boet van Dulmen, Jack Middelburg formed a Dutch trio of racers that were able to finish on the podium and even win grands prix in the 500cc class in the late 70s and early 80s. Middelburg was undoubtedly the most colourful of the three.For the 1980 season Middelburg fell for Yamaha’s PR, who had dubbed the TZ500 as a ‘Kenny Roberts replica’. However, the bike was not only expensive, it was also slow and it handled terribly. A few weeks before the Dutch TT, Middelburg and teammate Van Dulmen had famed frame builder Nico Bakker build them a reliable chassis, which Middelburg took to pole for his home race. Due to his bad leg, Middelburg’s start was horrendous, but with his slicks on the slowly…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021‘Feeling a bit rusty? It’s time to reset’Welcome to MCN’s Better Riding 2021 - your guide to being smoother, safer and swifter on the roads this summer (and beyond).Riding is a skill, and that means it needs to be learned and practised. But with so many of us getting less bike time than normal over the last 18 months, many are feeling a bit rusty. So it’s time for a reset.Riding well is all about attitude - and it’s important to be able to take a step back and calmly assess our own performance, to work out where we could do better.Often, we can improve simply by changing how we do one little thing - and most of the time it’s something we already know but have stopped doing (or aren’t doing so well as we might).We…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021ARE YOU SITTING COMFORTABLY?1 Take a deep breath - and relaxOur bikes are amazing. They’re capable of incredible things, especially if we work with them. It’s vital to sit well and stay relaxed and loose, with a light grip on the bars. “Imagine holding a baby bird: enough of a grip to stop it flying away, but gentle enough not to crush it,” advises advanced riding instructor Paul Mostyn.2 Lift your chinEven if you think you’re already looking well ahead, lift your chin: and you’ll see even more. “The sooner you identify a hazard, the sooner you can plan to deal with it,” says advanced instructor Ian Speight. Don’t just look straight ahead, though. Use cross views - across fields, through trees, over hedges - and keep moving your eyes.3 Have a planUse…3 min
MCN|18 August 2021Rossi kicksMotoGP legend Valentino Rossi has donated a pair of his Dainese race boots to be auctioned off by the Two Wheels for Life charity. These aren’t just any boots of course – they’re the ones from his final year as a professional racer. This is the first time the charity have been able to auction kit from the Doctor. The boots will be offered during the Day of Champions, which takes place at the British MotoGP on Friday and Saturday, August 27-28. All ticket holders can attend the auction.Roadside fixOxford Products have released a new temporary tyre kit that could be just the ticket to get you out of a hole. The kit includes everything you would need to repair a small puncture in a tubeless tyre – such as…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Norden nearly hereNEWS EDITOR‘It shows just how capable the bike can be’As the Husqvarna marketing machine gets into full swing, the brand have released their latest video of the new Norden; this time we see it tearing around the volcanic plains of Iceland. There are two bikes in the video being piloted by some very handy riders: one is five-time Dakar rally winner Cyril Despres, the other is extreme explorer Mike Horn, who has also raced the Dakar on four wheels.As well as amazing views of Iceland, what the video really shows us is just how capable the new bike will be (especially in the right hands). So far all we’ve been able to garner from the bike is what it’s like to ride on the road, when MCN bagged an exclusive…2 min
MCN|18 August 2021DEALS OF THE WEEKSAVE £3446£20,999 Indian Chieftain Limited (red)Indian Motorcycle’s top-spec ‘bagger’ boasts revised styling and new wheels to go with monster V-twin and class-leading ‘Ride Command’ TFT dash and, thanks to this offer at Thunder Road, undercuts Harley’s Street Glide Special by nearly four grand. If you want top-quality American muscle, it’s here.● www.thunderroad.co.ukSAVE £1500£14,249 KTM Super Duke R‘The Beast’ is one of the punchiest, best super-nakeds of all time and, at Northampton Moto, better value than ever.● northamptonmoto.co.uk● Engine 1301cc ● Power 178bhp ● Weight 189kg ● Seat height 835mmSAVE £650£6599 Kawasaki Ninja 650Black/white pre-reg examples of Kawasaki’s middleweight are being offered with £650 off by Colchester Kawasaki.● colchesterkawasaki.co.uk● Engine 649cc ● Power 67bhp ● Weight 193kg ● Seat height 790mmSAVE £501£9199 Aprilia Tuono 660One of the bikes of 2021 and…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Ride to the marshesThe Romney Marsh Ride-in Show and Bike Jumble will return for its 30th year in September. The grass-roots event will welcome visitors on Sunday, September 12 with tons of new and used spares, complete bikes and projects for sale. You can also enter your own bike in one of two Ride-in Shows: Best Classic (pre-1980) and Best Post Classic. Gates open at 10am or 7.30am with earlybird tickets.Twenty’s plentyKent County Council are considering a blanket 20mph zone in the centre of Herne Bay. The measure is proposed to combat an issue with speeding in the coastal resort after a survey found a number of drivers were exceeding 50mph in the existing 30mph area. Cllr Dan Watkins said: “It’s noisy, people feel unsafe at times, wing mirrors are being knocked off.”Hopkins…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Brit bikes storm the PalaceMotorcycles will be the stars of the show at this year’s exclusive Salon Privé Week at Blenheim Palace on September 1-5.A rare early Triumph tops the two-wheeled bill and at 120-years-old is bound to demand plenty of attention. The machine used a 0.75bhp engine from Belgium and has a hand-operated rear brake. The model on display is the first one ever made and has not been shown since 1937.A motorcycle parade will even open proceedings on the Wednesday and Thursday (September 1-2).In addition, Allen Millyard will be displaying his Kawasaki Z1 Super Six. The superbike of its day, Millyard’s production-looking special uses a six cylinder lump, based on the original DOHC four cylinder engine, with many original Kawasaki parts in place. Among the amazing motorcycles on show will be the…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Piaggio scoot into the radar ageTECH EXPERTRadars are fast becoming the ‘next big thing’ with companies all over the world rushing to develop bike-mounted sensors for adaptive cruise control and collision warning systems.This year has seen the first showroom-ready, radar-equipped bikes, with optional systems on the Ducati Multistrada V4 S and BMW’s latest R1250RT, and a standard front radar on KTM’s 1290 Adventure S.All those bikes use the same sensors and electronics, made by Bosch and derived from long-established components developed for use in cars. Other firms including Honda, Harley-Davidson, Indian and Yamaha are working on bike-mounted radar but have yet to reveal whether they’re adopting the Bosch kit.Piaggio, however, have decided not to follow the Bosch route, instead teaming-up with Israeli-based radar specialists Vayyar with the intention of developing a system that’s not limited…3 min
MCN|18 August 2021THE BUYERNEIL SPALDINGEvery week we give a different rider a wodge of fictional cash and ask them to ‘buy’ the bike that sets their soul on fire. This is Neil’s pick...‘What I’d buy right now with’ £70002014 Moto Guzzi Griso 1200Race bike expert and author of MotoGP Technology, Neil Spalding, is a man who appreciates engineering. Away from the track, Neil owns and runs Sigma Performance, who design and build slipper clutches, and has raced a Ducati Supermono. So, what would the man who can tell you about the intricacies of an RCV’s firing order buy on the used market?“If I was a bit younger I would probably look at the Ducati Streetfighter V4,” says Neil, “as I can’t be arsed with clip-ons, a decision I made in the 1990s. I…2 min
MCN|18 August 2021‘Bikers saved our business’JUST BREW IT Ride out to Britain’s best biking cafesTWO FLAGS CAFÉ• Don’t forget to try the roast• 7.30am-3pm every day• Find out more / www.facebook.com/twoflagscafeTwo flags café on the A47 isn’t just another ‘greasy spoon’, although it can be if you want! Leigh Jarvis started the roadside café after he gave up his career as a head chef to work with his dad’s recovery company, but while he was out on the road, he saw the quality of burger vans and knew he could do better. And now, Two Flags has been under Leigh’s chef-hat for 18 years.He said: “I work 50 weeks a year, but this is like my hobby, it’s not really a job. I love it. It’s more about the food for me, it’s not all…2 min
MCN|18 August 2021THE UK’S HOTTEST RIDES‘Give me more of the Moors’Bruce Dunn shares his scenic adventure around North YorkshireThis is a favourite for road tests and bike industry brochure shoots. Head out of Whitby on the A171 and after about 14 miles turn left on to Smeathorns Road. In the small matter of about a mile, the landscape transforms, and you’ll also get to ride around a cool left-hand bend that I like to call ‘JC’s Mythical Corner’ named in honour of long-serving bike photographer Jason Critchell, who seems to be able to get a multitude of shots from that one bend. The road winds its way along the moorland to Castleton, turn right on the high street and follow the road all the way out of the village as it bends left you are…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Calling all womenThis weekend you can go to an exhibition celebrating all the women in the motorcycling world and it could help you to take your next steps with motorcycling, whatever skills you have.What’s happening?On Saturday, August 21, the Women in Motorcycling Exhibition descends on Tutbury Castle in Burton upon Trent for the day to bring workshops, inspirational speakers and panel talks, a learner zone, exhibitors, camping and a raffle draw, too.Whether you want to get behind the bars for the first time or want to improve your skills, the event has everything you need. And if workshops are more your thing, you could take part in the beginner and intermediate motorcycle maintenance session, learn some first aid, or even try biker yoga!The essential stuffTo get in you will need proof of…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021‘I OWN A DUCATI MONSTER......and two wheels are my passion’Fred ReedAge 60Height 5ft 5inCurrent bike 2021 Ducati MonsterBeen riding 45 yearsFirst bike Derbi GT50“Two wheels are my passion and I buy a new bike every three years as I have set up an account I pay £100 into every month and then after three years this money and the bike I’m trading in usually secures me a new one! It’s a great system.“The last bike I bought was a Monster 1200S, which I did a lot of pleasure riding on and also took to Spain on a 10-day tour, which was fantastic. However, I traded it in for a Monster this year as I was tempted by the smaller bike as it was lighter and cheaper. Also it has a very low seat height, which is a bonus.“I was…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021JAMES HAYDONPeople who have shaped our world‘I’m so lucky to have earned a living doing what I love’Now a familiar face on TV as a pundit for Eurosport, few fans remember quite what an impressive racing career James Haydon had. The Brit has lined up alongside Schwantz and Doohan in 500GPs, Rossi and Biaggi in MotoGP, Bayliss and Edwards in WSB and BSB legends such as Reynolds and Mackenzie. Not bad for someone who only took to tarmac aged 16...“Dad was a petrolhead who rode bikes but never raced,” James remembers. “His love of bikes rubbed off and I used to kick around on off-roaders after school with my mate Dave. The first time dad came to watch he said ‘You two need to go racing, you’re mad!’ So we did.”After…4 min
MCN|18 August 2021IRON FIST IN A VELVET GLOVEMV Agusta are all about evolution over revolution. As each year passes, their cool creations don’t change much on the outside but underneath they’re constantly honed and polished. For 2021 the Dragster 800 RR looks as bonkers as ever, and it gets a bundle of small mechanical and electronic refinements that significantly improve the way it rides, without taking away any of that old fire-breathing aggression, which is quite a clever trick. There are currently four models in the Dragster 800 lineup: the base £13,420 Rosso, full-spec £17,510 RR, limited edition £20,240 800 RC SCS and this: the £17,950 auto-clutch RR SCS.1 Refining the beastNow Euro5-friendly, the 798cc triple still makes 138bhp, which is perfect power for a naked sportsbike. The counter-rotating crank motor gets a handful of mods in…3 min
MCN|18 August 2021SAMMY’S MUST-SEE MUSEUM EXHIBITS1957 ARIEL HT5 ‘GOV 132’‘The Most Famous Trials Machine in the World’GOV 132 was sold to Sammy for £1 in 1960 when the Ariel factory moved onto four-strokes, which allowed Sammy to develop a new frame and bodywork until he decided to retire the bike in 1964 as the ‘Most Famous Trials Machine in the World’.1953 NORTON ‘SILVER FISH’ KNEELERSammy heard rumours about the project as a schoolboy and watched Ray Amm set a lap record in the 1953 North West 200 before encountering fuel pump problems.1955 NSU SPORT MAXRaced by Sammy, the NSU stays dear to him after taking him to second in the Ulster GP in 1955 and 1956. But that was just the start. He also won the NW 200 in 1955, 1956 and 1957 on this…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021‘I had to see it for myself’Paul Beattie runs Inner Circle Training (innercircletraining.co.uk) and, as well as offering his own UK-based training tours, and he is one of the Globebusters team running motorcycle expeditions around the world.“I remember the first time I went to Skye and riding the back roads around the island. It was so beautiful – I stopped on a hairpin just above Uig, making myself bacon and eggs on my camping stove.“I do a lot of fell walking and friends had raved about the Cullin Hills and how beautiful it was, so I had to see it for myself. It was stunning. So wild. It’s my kind of scenery.“When I was last there, some of the roads had just been freshly gravelled – the steep, narrow, gravelly hairpins were definitely a riding challenge.”…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021‘So far I am very pleased with it’HONDA CRF300 RALLY“I first saw the 300 Rally on the internet, and after delving a little deeper into its spec I decided to place an order. Nearly three months later it arrived. My first impressions were just how good looking the bike is, and the weight, it’s the thick end of 200lb lighter than my Africa Twin. Although the seat height is very tall at 885mm the suspension has plenty of sag for a shorty like me. I’m currently adding some essential kit, rear rack, bashplate, Renthals and Barkbusters as I’m off to do some green landing in Wales. So far I’m very pleased with how it’s shaping up.”…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021‘It will give anything a run for its money’I love the versatility it offers. I can clear off on holiday with a pillion on board, take off all the luggage and just enjoy myself or even take to the dirt. It also stands out amongst the rest of the competition. The engine has bags of character and will give anything a run for its money - it’s a sportsbike on stilts. I’ll certainly keep it for a few years, with plans to ride the Yorkshire Dales, a third tour of Ireland, and Dartmoor in the coming months.HOW GOOD IS THE RUBBER?Pirelli Scorpion Trail III didn’t like the OE Pirelli Scorpion Trail II tyres. They were skittish in the wet. I only did 1000 miles before swapping them.Also considerContinental TKC70 £209 (90/90-21 and 150/70-18) A genuine dual-purpose tyre. On…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021‘I had a clip calamity!’Hose clips come in a number of different styles, the most common are the crimped type or a clamp type that is heavily sprung. Sprung clips can be reused, but not so the crimped ones. These crimp-type can be replaced with a high-quality Jubilee-type item, but you need to be selective.Although they all look similar, often there’s a vast difference in quality - as I discovered in the worst possible way earlier this year. I replace the hose clips on my race bike every season with ‘high quality’ clips. But back in April, one of my coolant hoses popped off on the opening lap of a race and dumped distilled water all over the back tyre causing me to high side.The crash left me with two fractured vertebrae and a…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Tommy’s back!SPORTS REPORTERTommy Bridewell made his return to the top step at Donington, becoming the fifth different winner of the 2021 BSB season.In the tricky weather of race three, Bridewell chose the intermediate front and rear Pirellis - tyres which he hadn’t previously used - and it paid off. Bridewell led most of the race and converted his advantage into victory, the fifth of his BSB career and his first since race three of the opening round at Donington just over a year ago.The victory caps off a brilliant return to form for Bridewell and the Oxford Products Racing Ducati team, who endured a tough 2020 campaign on the V4 R due to constant chatter.The team worked hard over the winter to rectify the issue, and they’re now getting back to…2 min
MCN|18 August 2021Irwin’s pain gameGlenn Irwin and Honda Racing UK’s return to form continued with two more podiums at Donington. Irwin now has three podiums from the last five races and has moved into the top-eight Showdown positions as a result.Second in race three was perhaps an unexpected result after Irwin dislocated his shoulder when he crashed in the second race. Brother Graeme Irwin, a British Motocross champion who’s had both shoulders operated on, helped get some movement and feeling back in Glenn’s shoulder in-between races.‘I can maintain the pace. We’re making steps’Donington is a good track for the Fireblade, which won twice around the national circuit in 2020 on its debut, something which allowed Irwin to gloss over the faults that have caused problems so far in 2021.“I actually have more chatter here,”…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Yamaha men take controlSPORTS REPORTERAnother Bennetts British Superbike weekend. Another reminder of how strong McAMS Yamaha are and how tough it’s going to be to stop their relentless two-rider charge to title glory.Jason O’Halloran and Tarran Mackenzie leave Donington Park with six more podium credits each. O’Halloran bagged win number eight of 2021 in race one, while Mackenzie won race two after getting the better of O’Halloran in a thrilling finale. It showcased Mackenzie’s ability to keep his cool, after seeing his comfortable lead slashed to nothing when the safety car came into play in the dying laps.O’Halloran further showcased his stranglehold on the championship. Fast in each session, not panicking if he doesn’t get away well and falls back into the pack, and controlling the pace as he pleases when he does…3 min
MCN|18 August 2021Zarco blows big chanceJohann Zarco was the big loser of the Speilberg swing with his MotoGP title hopes fading – not least with the emergence of rookie Pramac Ducati teammate Jorge Martin.Zarco was outscored 41 points to 10 by Martin across the two Austrian races and slumped from second to fourth in the standings, now 49 points behind fellow Frenchman Fabio Quartararo.It was a brutal week with Zarco admitting that his status as title contender going into Austria was a factor after the long summer break.He was sixth in Austria 1 but crashed out of Austria 2 in the dry before the late race scramble in the rain began.“I’m not angry but sad, it is a pain inside to lose the chance in a race,” Zarco commented afterwards.“It is a good lesson. I…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021Getting physical on the brakesMICHAEL LAVERTY THE INSIDERBT Sport’s technical guru unmasks secrets at the sharp end of MotoGPThis picture is from the braking zone for T3 where the riders go from… 191mph in 6th to 36mph in firstThe Red Bull Ring provides a particular challenge, hard and late braking is the key to a fast lap time, providing you can stop the machine in the shortest time without compromising corner exit. Utilising the rear of the machine to assist in deceleration is crucial, due to the forces involved, too much demand on the front end will both overheat the braking system and the front tyre; the man credited with the fastest-ever two wheel lap of the Austrian circuit with Jorge Martin (pictured) demonstrating exactly what the rider can do to assist…1 Body positionThe…3 min
MCN|18 August 2021Viñales’ dark daysMICHAEL SCOTT UNDER THE SKINVeteran MotoGP correspondent shares his unique racing insight‘I am a warrior.” This was the most poignant remark in Maverick Viñales’s chastened (you might say “grovelling”) apology to Yamaha last weekend, which may or may not save the rest of his season with the team.It came on Saturday, giving some resolution to a paddock left reeling by Yamaha’s “regret- to-announce” statement that the rider had been suspended from the Austrian GP, after data had confirmed they had found “irregular operation” of his machine, which could have damaged the bike, and caused serious risk to Viñales and other riders at the previous race.Viñales had been strong before the red flag came out, but slumped to last in the restarted Styrian GP, and footage showed him revving the bike…4 min
MCN|18 August 2021Who dares wins!MATTHEW BIRT INSIGHTGetting the inside line on grand prix racing since 1996Ballsy, barmy, bonkers and brilliant Brad Binder. Somehow those words don’t seem to do justice to the South African’s victory in one of the craziest and most unpredictable MotoGP races you’ll ever witness.Billed as a blockbuster Spielberg sequel, not even Hollywood could have scripted the nail-biting thriller that culminated with an astonishing win for Binder.As rain lashed the Red Bull Ring with just over four laps remaining, five of the top six including Marc Marquez, Pecco Bagnaia, pole man Jorge Martin, series leader Fabio Quartararo and reigning World Champion Joan Mir, all pitted to swap for wet weather bikes.One took a humongous punt and rolled the dice. Without a podium in 21 races and 12 months after his stunning…4 min
MCN|18 August 2021YOUR BANK HOLIDAY SORTED!With the three-day weekend just around the corner, we thought we’d help you make sure that you spend it in the best way possible – on two wheels! Whether it’s trying something completely new, scoping out a local show, or just spending a weekend enjoying beers and bands at a biking festival, call up your mates and get yourself over to some of these events on the weekend of August 27-30. Painting the garden fence will just have to wait.‘Blast away the Covid cobwebs’Santa Pod Run What Ya BrungEAST MIDLANDS• August 28, 9.30am-5pm• Santa Pod, nr Podington, Bedfordshire• Online booking only: £12 adult spectators, £5 child, £35 race voucher• santapod.co.ukWhat better way to blow off a year-and-a-half’s worth of pent-up biking frustration than by taking to the drag strip on…13 min
MCN|18 August 2021TRACK STATSSTATISTICS• Length 3.67miles• Corners 18 (8 left, 10 right)• Longest straight 770 metresLap record Best race lap2019 Top five2021 Title standings*ONE TO WATCHNow armed with an acceleration boosting rear ride height device, expect another strong threat from the GSX-RR, which has won twice in five attempts at Silverstone.FLASHBACK TO 2019There was first and last corner drama in 2019 when Dovizioso and Quartararo crashed out at Copse and Rins beat Marquez by millimetres to become the first Suzuki rider to win twice in a single season since 2000.…1 min
MCN|18 August 2021The perfect bike for Silverstone...Silverstone’s technical layout challenges teams to ensure their bike is strong in all areas, says BT Sport’s Michael LavertyThe lack of major elevation changes leads some to believe that Silverstone is simple, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. The new asphalt laid in 2019 changed the dynamic, while skipping a GP in 2020 due to Covid will mean another change in surface character courtesy of the two-year aging process.We often say a circuit favours a particular bike, or that it’s a V4 or inline four circuit, but with Silverstone you can make an argument for each manufacturer and engine configuration such is the diverse nature of the track. It’s a favourite of many riders, a high-speed challenge that often throws cold temperatures and tricky weather into the mix.1…4 min
MCN|18 August 2021BRITISH MOTOGP: THE EIGHT BIG QUESTIONSJOSH CLOSE SHARES HIS INSIGHTS INTO THE MOTOGP TITLE FIGHTMotoGP finally returns to the UK on the August Bank Holiday weekend and it’s fair to say that the British fans are eager to see some fantastic racing. With both 2018 and 2020 events being cancelled, there’s arguably more anticipation heading into this year’s event than ever before. And it’s almost certainly your last chance to see Valentino Rossi and Cal Crutchlow racing in MotoGP on UK soil. Here are the hot storylines to follow at Silverstone...1 CAN FABIO QUARTARARO LIVE WITH THE DUCATI?After a speed disadvantage against the Ducat is in Austria, Fabio Quartararo will be looking forward to Silverstone. The Northamptonshire circuit is ideal for the smooth-riding M1 which can carry fantastic corner speed throughout the fast, sweeping layout.…5 min
MCN|18 August 2021LOOK AFTER YOURSELF19 Check yourselfIt’s not just the body that can spoil your ride: your brain and how you look after yourself can have a big impact, too. Best practice is to give yourself an ‘I am safe’ check, as below, before riding. But if you feel things aren’t going well, stop and have a think. Sometimes it’s better to accept that today is just not a riding day, and go home!I – Illness. Make sure you’re well enough to be on the bike.A – Attitude. Are you going to concentrate on the ride, or is something else at home or work likely to mean your mind’s elsewhere?M – Medication. Have you taken what you need? And are you safe to ride on it? Will you need to take anything again before…2 min
MCN|18 August 2021Meet your experts…SIMON WEIRBike journalist, author, touring guru and holder of a RoSPA Diploma in advanced motorcycle instruction, Simon’s got over one million miles of riding experience.ANDY IBBOTTRiding coach and author of MotoGP Performance Riding Techniques. Andy coached 2012 Moto3 champ Sandro Cortese and 2005 125GP champ Tom Luthi and used to run CSS in the UK.NEIL JEWELLHolder of all the top advanced riding certificates available to civilian riders, Neil racks up over 22,000 miles per year, has teaching qualifications and a keen interest in engineering.PAUL MOSTYNA long-serving police motorcyclist and advanced trainer, Paul also helped develop the BikeSafe course in London before taking it national, then to the USA. He is an IAM/RoSPA examiner.IAN SPEIGHTA former Police motorcyclist, Ian has been teaching advanced riding since 1999. He’s a RoSPA Examiner and…1 min
