1607 DT final

Ride More Stress Less 

JULY 2016 

JULY 2016 RSA R29.50 

2017 

First Look 

KTM ENDURO 

TESTED: 

TWO 

300 

SHERCO’S 

PREVIEW: 

2016 TRIUMPH 

EXPLORER 

PLUS: NATIONAL MX & ENDURO RACING 

• DUCATI MULTISTRADA ENDURO LOCAL TEST 

• REDBULL ERZBERG RODEO 2016 

• DAY IN THE DUNES: FREERIDING ATLANTIS 

• A TRICK YAMAHA YZ250X 

& SO, SO, SO, SO, SO MUCH MORE!!!!

Follow us on 

battholdings 

ON ROAD • OFF ROAD • RACE • RALLY • DUAL-PURPOSE • UTILITY 

Batt Blue Label 

ON ROAD • OFF 

READY TO TACKLE 

EARTH. 

BATT HOLDINGS 

ARE SOLE RSA 

DISTRIBUTORS FOR 

STI WHEELS USA 

STI HD-5 Beadlock STI HD Beadlock 

STI Rims feature a choice of either Black, Grey, White, Blue, 

Orange, Yellow, Red or Green outer rings to colour code your ride. 

A010 

A041 

A033 

Batt Blue Label Tyres 

are available in a wide variety of 

gripping tread patterns for ATVs and Side-x-Sides, providing 

hardcore racers and weekend warriors alike with maximum 

traction and excellent tread life at a simply unbeatable price. 

To get your hands on a set, give 

BATT a call or visit our 

website, because with tyres like 

this you can quite literally take 

on the world and win. 

A024 

New 

8-Ply 

ASK ABOUT OUR 

DOT-USA & E4 RATED 

HEAVY DUTY MILITARY- 

SPEC TYRE OPTIONS 

A050 

A048 

A021 

A047 

A045 

A040 

Visit our new website: www.battholdings.co.za 

Batt Holdings SA Tel:+27 11 205 0216 • Fax:+27 11 312 7078 • Cell: +27 73 777 9269 

Sole Distributors for • Batt Tyres • Batt Tubes • Battech Race Products • STI Wheels USA 

GraphicWerx Advertising

Authorised dealer 

HOT WINTER DEALS! 

LINEX WR450F 

Brand new 

2015 Yamaha WR450F 

R86,950 

450-class torque, 

250-class agility 

LINEX YZ250X 

Included: 

• Polisport Hand Guards 

• Polisport Swing Arm Guards 

• Aluminium Bash Plate 

• Aluminium Front Disk Guard 

• Hyde Carbon Fibre Exhaust Guard 

WAS R94,950 

NOW R89,950 

LOADS OF IN-STORE DEALS JUST FOR YOU! 

www.linexyamaha.co.za 

E&OE 

Prices include VAT 

(t) 011 251 4000 

(e) info@linexyamaha.co.za 

Cnr. Malibongwe Drive & Tungsten Road 

Strydom Commercial Park, Randburg

DEALER ENQUIRIES 

WFO BIKES WWW.WFOBIKES.CO.ZA 

INFO@WFOBIKES.CO.ZA 

041 822 3344 

TRIED AND TESTED BY THE BEST 

Charan 

MOORE 

Super Moose JT Racing 

THE HIGHEST QUALITY MOTORCYCLE 

MOUSSE.GLOBAL LEADING FOAM RUBBER 

TECHNOLOGY. 

TESTED EXTENSIVELY 

LONGER LASTING TYRES 

ELIMINATES TYRE ROLL 

COMPETITIVE PRICING 

DURABLE 

FLEXIBLE

EDITOR: ROLEY FOLEY 

Two Mexican Baja racers are stuck in the desert, 

wandering aimlessly and close to death. The bikes 

are out of petrol - they are off course and have run 

out of energy bars and hydrate. 

They are close to just lying down and waiting for the 

inevitable, when 

all of a sudden... 

“Hey Pepe, do you smell what I smell. Ees bacon, I 

is sure of eet”. 

“Si, Luis, eet smells like bacon to meee”. 

So, with renewed strength, they struggle off up the 

next sand dune, and there, in the distance, is a tree, 

just loaded with bacon. 

There’s raw bacon, dripping with moisture, there’s 

fried bacon, back 

bacon, double smoked bacon...every imaginable 

kind of cured meat you can imagine!! 

“Pepe, Pepe, we ees saved. Eees a bacon tree”. 

“Luis, are sure ees not a meerage? We ees in the 

desert, don’ forget”. 

“Pepe, when deed you ever hear of a meerage that 

smell of bacon...ees no 

meerage, ees a bacon tree”. 

And with that...Luis races towards the tree. He gets 

to within 5 metres, 

Pepe following closely behind, when all of a 

sudden, a machine gun opens 

fire, and Luis is stopped in his tracks. 

He turn around and with renewed vigour runs back. 

“Pepe...go back man, you was right, ees not a 

bacon tree” 

“Luis, Luis mi amigo...what ees eet?” 

“Pepe...ees not a bacon tree.... Ees, a Ham Bush” 

CONTENTS: JULY 2016 

THE TEAM: 

EDITOR: 

Glenn Foley 

foleyg@mweb.co.za 

DESIGN: 

Rob Portman 

rob@ridefast.co.za 

ADVERTISING: 

Sinead Foley 

foleyg@mweb.co.za 

Kyle Lawrenson 

ACCOUNTS & 

SUBSCRIPTIONS: 

Anette 

anette.acc@mweb.co.za 

Office no (011) 979-1363 

(011) 979-5035 

CONTRIBUTORS: 

Clive Strugnell 

Kurt Beine 

Grant Foley 

Richard Sutherland 

Zygmund Brodalka 

Garth Roberts 

Laren vd Westhuizen 

Ian McClaren 

Craig Barendson 

Byron Rudman 

Zenon Birkby 

Sean Hendley 

Tristan Foley 

30: COVER STORY: 2017 KTM ENDURO 

40: PREVIEW: 2016 TRIUMPH EXPLORER 

44: SA TEST: DUCATI MULTISTRADA ENDURO 

64: TESTED: TWO 300 SHERCOS 

TO SUBSCRIBE 

CALL 011 979 1363 OR EMAIL 

anette.acc@mweb.co.za 

Digital or hard copy. 

70: FEATURE: ERZBERG RODEO 2016 

74: TESTED: TRICK YZ250X 

4 DIRT & TRAIL MAGAZINE JULY 2016

NEWS 

brought to you by 

Raceworx KTM in Clearwater: On a mission. 

You’ll see Raceworx’s cover ad 

that they are starting to think out 

of the box about making biking 

more affordable - while still 

offering top of the line service. 

They employ some of the best 

KTM technicians in the country 

and found that clients were 

servicing and maintaining their 

own bikes, or taking the bikes to 

non-official KTM mechanics. 

Herman, the man in charge, 

called up some of the clients to 

find a reason why this was so 

- and the unanimous reply was 

that the cost of servicing at an 

official dealership was perceived 

to be too high. 

It came home when Raceworx 

needed to service their Toyota 

van - more than 100 000km’s 

on the clock and out of warranty 

and all that. They called a wellknown 

general service centre 

for a quote, and then they called 

a Toyota dealer. They were 

surprised to discover that the 

genuine dealer was almost half 

the price. 

So he did a bit of homework, 

found out what the going labour 

rates are virtually nationwide. 

He then approached KTM’s 

technical division for a yardstick 

on how long a job should take. 

The result is the Raceworx 

service “Menu” that they have 

developed. Much like in a 

restaurant - pretty funky. 

Starters include a basic check 

over, air filter and the small 

stuff and includes a bike wash. 

Main course is for the bigger 

work with a genuine idea of the 

length of time that your bike 

is booked for. The menu also 

gives options - would you like 

Motul, or would you like Bel Ray, 

etc. It also gives a firm price on 

genuine parts - or if you prefer, 

the aftermarket option. 

Bear in mind, that they will 

collect your pride and joy for 

you (within a reasonable radius 

of the shop), and they are fully 

insured for any incidentals whilst 

your bike is in their care... 

In our opinion, this is a fantastic 

product for the consumer and 

it all kinda makes sense. We’ll 

watch this space and see how 

well it all works out. Raceworx 

employs some of the most 

experienced technicians in the 

country and are one of the only 

dealerships with the full range of 

genuine KTM specialised tools 

and electronic equipment. 

Raceworx KTM (011) 027 9922 

SCORPION MT90 

Tyres for enduro road races 

of all engine sizes, capable of 

adapting to daily urban use and to 

adventures at weekends. 

SCORPION RALLY 

The choice of champions: Specifically 

for desert racing and rallies. 

Selling or buying a bike, car, boat, 

bakkie privately? Need finance? 

The guys from Raceworx KTM now offer 

finance facilities for just about anything 

you can imagine. So if you are selling a 

bike or something similar on the net or in 

the classies, if a buyer needs finance, you 

can pop down to the shop and talk to 

the friendly, professional people in the F&I 

department. It’s risk free and takes the 

hassle out of selling your assets. Same 

if you buying and you don’t have the 

shekels in your pocket... 

All bikes, Boats, Trucks... you get the 

idea. Great service on offer for sure! 

Raceworx KTM (011) 027 9922 

SCORPION TRAIL 2 

A new path for adventure 

Pirelli tyres distributed by 

www.bike-wise.co.za 


NEWS 


Tyre Balls are back 

Tyre balls were first introduced way back in the early 2000’s, 

prior to the invention of mousse’s and even the pneumatic 

tyre… ok not really – but back then it was already a popular 

anti-flat system. We have tested them on quads, and we are 

in the process of rigging up a system for one of our dirtbikes. 

What are Tire Balls? Tire Balls are individual, inflated air cells, 

made of a urethane that are more puncture resistant than a 

heavy duty tube, creating a type of run‐flat technology. Each 

Tire Ball has a valve similar to a basketball and is inflated by a 

standard needle. Basically you inflate each ball to the desired 

pressure and you fill the tyre with them, and then pop the tyre 

on to your rim… they tell us that up to 25 percent of the balls 

can fail before you’ll feel any difference. The beauty of the 

balls is that they last forever so when you change tyres you 

simply re-fit them and replace any punctured balls. 

www.racetyretech.com 082-902-1153 

The Tiron portable 

“tyre putter onner…” 

Ok Fitment device. 

Now heres a cool invention. No more 

pinching tubes or marking the rims – and 

you don’t need to use tyre irons to install a 

new tyre and tube. 

What a nifty gadget. 

1. If you need to remove your tyre – that’s 

through the conventional method, levers 

and elbow grease – but to re-install, this 

thing is great. 

• Push the tyre onto the rim to get started, 

place the tube into the tyre. 

• Place the Tyron into the centre bearing 

and literally crank the lever and rotate the 

wheel, the tyre pops on without fuss or 

the need for tyre irons. 

Guys – this is a fascinating invention and 

it works really well, one man – or lady 

operation. check it out for yourself. Pop 

it onto the bakkie when you are heading 

out, it makes life too much easier. 

Enquiries: Steven: 082-887-5474. Warren: 

082-902-1153 

www.racetyretech.com 

ANGEL GT 

The highest mileage sport touring 

tyre: 100% italian gran turismo. 

Ariettes more affordable Goggles 

European quality at a great SA price, Ariette has just landed 

the new “c” range better priced than their Riding Crows 

– more entry level at great European Quality. Available at 

dealers from around R450 a pair… 

Nearest dealer: www.trickbitz.co.za 

ANGEL ST 

The first tyre with a double soul. 

HOLDER OF 7 WORLD RECORDS! 

On March 15th 2009, 15 

Journalists and 12 Pirelli Testers 

set 7 FIM World Duration Records 

at Nardò Technical Center in 

Southern Italy. 

On just one set of Angel ST tyres 

they covered a distance of 5,135 

km at an average speed of 214 

km/h in a tough 24H non stop trial 

which proved the consistency and 

the performance of ANGEL ST. 




new& 

THE FUN FACTORY 

TRADE INS WELCOME 

NEW AND USED UNITS 

ALWAYS IN STOCK 

Used 

cleanest second hand bikes in town 

Pre-Owned 

2013 KTM 690 RALLEY 

BIKE R120 0000 

Husqvarna TE449 

R48 000 

22009 SUZUKI DRZ 

400 E R28 000 

2008 KTM XCW 450 

R45 000 

2005 KAWASAKI 

KX250F R25 000 

Pre-Owned 

2006 SUZUKI LTR450 

R28 000 

2007 SUZUKI LTZ450 

R38 000 

2006 HONDA SPORT 

TRAXX 250 R26 000 

2005 YAMAHA 

RAPTOR 660 R34 000 

2016 KAZUMA WOM- 

BAT 50CC R8999 

2014 POLARIS RACE 

CAR R395 000 

2011 POLARIS RZR 

900 XP R245 000 


900 EFI R250 000 


900XP R290 000 

2015 POLZRIS RZR 

1000 XP R365 000 

WE CUSTOMIZE RANGERS TO YOUR SPECIFICATIONS... 

SPORTSMAN 

FROM R133 950 

2016 SCRAMBLER 

1000 EFI R249 950 

2016 RANGER 

FROM R162 950 

2016 RZR FROM 

R349 950 

2016 DIESEL CREW 

1000 R454 950 

2015 RAIDER 

DIESEL R189 950 

REBEL 400 4X4 

AWB R104 950 

RUSTLER 260 

2X4 FROM R54 950 

RUSTLER 300 4X4 

R64 950 

2015 RAIDER 

700 EFI R164 950 

SHOWROOM: 011 475 4892. WORKSHOP: 011 475 9274 

ANDREW: 083 266 1458 ANDREW@KATAYRACING.CO.ZA 

DEVON VALLEY SHOPPING CENTER, CNR 9TH AVE & RUGBY ROAD, 

WELTEVREDEN PARK, ROODEPOORT 

WWW.KATAYRACING.CO.ZA

NEWS 


Just1 Helmet’s new range arrives 

in SA with matching goggles. 

So how’s this for all the fashion conscious menses out there? 

Just1 is one of the first companies we’ve heard of that build 

quality goggles to match their helmets. 2 new Just1’s are out. 

The J12 (above) is a full carbon fibre helmet as used by the 

likes of Blake Bagget and Alex Salvini. Plenty of cool designs 

to choose from. 

The more affordable J32 (below) design is also here. The 

thermoplastic unit weighs in at just on 1200 grammes. Still 

a full spec lid and also available in kiddie sizes with a smaller 

shell. Cool huh? 

Imported by HRP and available at dealers all over… (011) 

708-5905 for your closest stockist. 

Batt Holdings 

lightweight, compact 

anti-gravity batteries 

Dirtbikes, quads, superbikes, motards… 

Anti gravity batteries are with extremely 

powerful and lightweight lithium cells 

but with the case moulded as tightly as 

possible to make for the most compact 

motorcycle batteries available. 

Though great for everyday use, they are 

often chosen by those seeking the most 

compact fit and lightest weight possible. 

The compact fit allows for more room 

in the battery tray for electronics like 

Power Commander, while the extremely 

light weight helps with handling, braking, 

acceleration and even mileage. They tell us 

that these batteries deliver huge cranking 

power and that they do not require a 

trickle charge even after standing for long 

periods. We’ll try it for ourselves soon. 

These are a Universal-fit battery that come 

with adhesive backed foam for installation. 

They offer a one bolt top-mount low profile 

terminals. 

(011) 205-0216. www.battholdings.co.za 

2016 

JHB to Durbs and 

back in the dirt: Starts 

29th Sept 2016. 

MX MID SOFT 32 

Specifically for soft surfaces such 

as mud or sand and intermediate 

surfaces such as grass or compact 

and dry ground. 

MX MID HARD 

Newest option for medium to 

hard terrain–from loose, grassy 

surfaces to compact dirt and 

stones–conditions most commonly 

encountered on everyday 

motocross tracks. 




NEWS 


Musgrave Racing News 

NOT Biquip – a new shop, fresh idea’s and service… 

We popped in to the very friendly Musgrave Racing in Pretoria 

east to have a gander and a bit of a chat. The shop is 

situated in the east of Pretoria and specializes in the service 

and repair of all major Road and Adventure bikes, as well as 

service, repair spares and sales of all Off-Roads and Quads. 

Musgrave Racing houses a fully functional workshop offering 

all work on engines, suspension, wheels, tyres, pre-race 

preparation and post-race maintenance. They also supply a 

wide range of off-road spares. 

From the road bike division, they offer diagnostics, services, 

chains, brakes, discs, sprockets, tyre supply and fitment, as 

well as balancing. 

On the showroom floor you’ll find a variety of new and preloved 

bikes and quads at competitive prices as well as all the 

accessories to go along with them… 

“At Musgrave Racing we are passionate about bikes, people 

and great service. Being bike riders ourselves, we understand 

the need for attention to detail, awesome client care and 

expert advice!” Says the big boss Jonathan. 

“Please don’t mistake us for the previous owners – we are 

NOT Biquip, this is a new shop fresh staff and a great outlook. 

Come and pop in and see what we can do for you…” 

1279A De Villebois Mareuil Drive, Moreleta Park, Pretoria. 

Phone: 012 997 1030 / Cell: 082 623 5320 

Fax: 086 666 5833 / Email: info@musgraveracing.co.za 

/ sales@musgraveracing.co.za 

New hardware 

from Metalize 

Metalize, the adventure wear people are 

expanding a bit and have introduced a 

few new products… 

Superbike stands both front and rear, 

are on the way – as well as a very cool 

hydraulic scizzor lift type dirtbike stand. 

We’ve got one and it’s properly useful for 

working on your pride and joy. 

They also have a very useful hydraulic 

centre stand… great stuff this. 

Imported by HRP and available at 

dealers all over… (011) 708-5905 for 

your closest stockist. 

SCORPION MT90 













SPORTY. RELIABLE. EFFICENT. 

THERE AND BACK 

ON THE SNIFF OF AN 

OIL RAG 

MOTORCYCLES 

32 Hulbert Str 

New Centre 

Johannesburg 

011 493 6001 

www.senke.co.za

NEWS 


PW Parts from the Peewee guy 

Speak to anyone that started 

riding a motorcycle at an early 

age and chances are they started 

on a PW50 or PW80. The iconic 

little 2 strokes from Yamaha that 

have been putting smiles on 

young boys and girls faces since 

1981. Fast forward 35 years 

and these little gems can be 

found lying all over the country in 

Micro Start XP1 from 

Batt Holdings 

Batt Holdings has secured the sole rights for the 

USA brand Anti-Gravity Batteries & the Micro 

Jump Starters. 

We looked at the Micro-Start XP-1 from Batt 

racing. The zipped pouch that it comes in is no 

bigger than a biggish calculator. Inside is a mad 

array of adapters for charging various electronic 

devices from phones to laptops, and a ridiculously 

lightweight (15 ounces), 225-amp-hour lithium/ 

ion battery, just one by three by six inches, which, 

incidentally, can also be used to jump-start your 

BAKKIE. What? It’s true. The pouch includes a set 

of battery-post clamps, and the company claims 

the power pack will start a V8-engined vehicle— 

not once, but several times. 

Could this mean the end of jumper cables? We’ve 

always hated those things, and especially hate 

what happens when we play good Samaritan 

to jump some poor bloke’s dead ATV, Bakkie, 

superbike or SXS. And then – they take off with 

your jumper cables. With the Micro-Start you are 

in complete control of the situation. And of course 

if your own vehicle becomes stranded you are 

various states of disrepair 

From this PeeWee Parts was 

born, an importer of good 

quality aftermarket spare parts 

for PW50’s and PW80’s. Peewee 

Parts, a small family run business 

operating from the south of 

Johannesburg, stocks over 250 

individual parts for peewees from 

cosmetic items like plastic and 

decal sets, to mechanical parts 

like engine rebuild kits, bearings, 

gaskets, cables, carburettors, 

etc, they even stock some 

performance upgrade parts to 

give your peewee a little extra go. 

They send goods country wide 

with RAM hand to hand couriers 

daily, and tracking numbers 

provided to follow your goods to 

your door. They also buy, fix and 

sell peewees and normally always 

have bikes in stock for sale. 

They say that all parts are in 

stock all the time, and we keep 

a constant flow of stock from 

our overseas partners, and 

some parts are supplemented 

with genuine Yamaha parts 

where they cannot source 

the aftermarket part, making 

peewee parts a one stop shop. 

They have a fully interactive 

e-commerce website, where 

orders can be placed and paid 

for online. So if your Peewee 

needs a bit of love give them 

a call on 081 813 5017 or visit 

www.pwparts.co.za or mail 

info@pwparts.co.za 

completely removed from the need for a donor 

vehicle—handy if you are in the middle of nowhere. 

So how well does the XP-1 work? 

We disconnected Bruce’s Batt Racings Bakkie 

Battery (That’s lots of B’s) to give it a try by clamping 

the leads directly to the battery cables. Hit the 

starter and it sounded just like the bakkies standard 

battery was swinging things. Ain’t technology 

grand? This little job will slip into your bumbag or 

even your enduro jacket pocket. What a pleasure. 

Stock arrives at Batt Holdings soon. Trade 

enquiries are welcome. 

Priced from R1500.00 


ANGEL GT 



ANGEL ST 



On March 15th 2009, 15 














HEAD & BRAIN PROTECTION 

360 TURBINE TECHNOLOGY: UP TO 30% REDUCTION OF HEAD IMPACT AT CONCUSSION LEVEL 

UP TO 40% REDUCTION OF ROTATIONAL ACCELERATION TO HEAD AND BRAIN 

WWW.LEATT.COM 

JOHNNY AUBERT

NEWS 


Roof News: Motul Oil’s Involvement in the Roof Of Africa 

Last month you would have seen 

our feature on the Bronze Roof 

qualifier in Lesotho. We thought 

we’d delve a bit into the sponsors 

and what they do for the sport. 

By now, unless you live under a 

rock... you are aware that Motul 

is and has been synonymous with 

the Roof Of Africa since 2014. 

Their involvement not only covers 

the Roof of Africa but extends to 

the Bronze Roof Qualifier. This 

year, Motul product was handed 

out to every rider that crossed 

the finish line after the great route 

set out by the organizers. In 

addition to putting funds towards 

the running of the event, Motul 

sponsored goodie bags for the 

top 3 riders in both the Bronze, 

Ladies and the WOW classes. 

You would have seen their 

magnificent bike wash in action at 

the Roof ... it will be back at the 

famous race in December. 

Not only are they involved with the 

bigger National Teams, they also 

support regional and club riders 

through their Dealer network 

and ongoing relationships. 

Of particular interest is the 

involvement with 3 riders that 

competed in the Roof of Africa 

2015, Kyle Dough the extreme 

athlete who completed gold first 

time out last year, Natasha Rugani 

(silver) and Quinton Ralph (Silver). 

For the last two years, Motul 

has sponsored the screening 

of the Roof of Africa on Motors 

TV which is broadcast in more 

than 40 European countries and 

with a viewership of 46 million 

households. In 2015the event 

was also aired on M5, a French 

TV Sports programme. 

Last year, they brought a French 

journalist through whose articles 

exposed the Roof in several 

European bike publications. 

Roof of Africa Entries: 

Entries for Gold & Bronze open at 

10h00 on 1st August (not 1st July 

as previously advised to Bronze 

competitors). Entries for Silver will 

open two weeks later on the 15th 

August also at 10h00. 

A reminder to Bronze competitors 

who qualified but do not intend to 

race, to please let Roof organisers 

know as soon as possible to 

make space for others. 

More details will follow closer to 

the time. 

In the meantime, rest assured that 

they are busy with preparations 

for the event and it will be another 

great Roof. 

Happy training! See you there. 






MX MID HARD 










WR25OF 

The Off Adventurer R 99,95O 

Incl. VAT 

At Yamaha we’ve always liked to do things our way. Being different is what makes our bikes so special. And 

when you take a look at the WR250F’s high-tech ‘reverse’ engine you can see that what may look wrong to 

some people is right for us! 

The WR250F is a gamechanger. A front facing inlet and tuneable fuel-injection system deliver an instant hit 

of power. And by centralizing mass, the underseat fuel tank and top-mounted airbox design give you ultra-light 

handling performance.Featuring a 6-speed gearbox with a special enduro clutch, and running with 

class-leading suspension, the electric-start WR250F is taking Yamaha back to the front. 

www.yamaha.co.za | +27 11 259 7600 | Facebook: Yamaha Southern Africa | Instagram: YamahaMoto_SA | Youtube: YamahaMoto_SA

NEWS 


Just arrived, the new funky Forma 

Terrain TX boots in fluo colours. 

The Forma terrain TX is a great Mid-range MX boot in a new 

vibrant colour range. The boot has leather and synthetic 

uppers with a personalised MX compound double density 

rubber sole and the usual protective features. The inner has 

soft polymer padding with memory foam and steel shank 

support. The inner sole has Forma’s famous Air pump 

system sole. 

Launch price is R4500 at dealers… www.dmd.co.za for your 

closest stockist. 

Renthal Ultra-Tack 

Grips Released 

Renthal Ultra-Tacky Dual Compound 

grips have been developed to increase 

traction between the glove and the 

grip, increasing control and reducing 

rider fatigue. The unique Ultra-Tacky 

compound constantly produces and 

renews a sticky surface coating which 

when combined with the Renthal soft 

compound offers an incredibly grippy yet 

comfortable surface. 

Suitable for use in all types of riding 

conditions, this grip is particularly 

applicable where riders are looking for 

increased control of the handlebars, like 

wet or muddy conditions. The sticky 

surface will last for the lifetime of the 

grip, if the surface feels like it’s losing 

some of its tackiness at any point, 

simply wash with clean water and allow 

the grip to air dry to re-activate 

The construction of the grip is the same 

as our bestselling Dual Compound Grip 

Tech with a firm base layer for increased 

durability and a soft outer layer where 

the hand is in contact with the grip 

including the inner flange. 

The RRP inclusive is approximately 

R245.00 available at dealers. 

SCORPION MT90 








Custom ATV radiator grilles 

available at SSS Racing 

SSS Racing designs and manufacture their own radiator 

grills. Their stainless steel grills are of the best quality. 

They can also custom make a grille for you, for an extra 

cost. Drop them a mail sssracingproducts@gmail.com any 

picture in DXF or DWG Format and they will design and 

make it for you. There are many more designs available, go 

to the web page www.sss-racing.co.za, search your bike 

and have a look at all the designs available. The stainless 

steel grills sell for R340 each. Available for - Raptor 660, 

Raptor 700 and Banshee. We also have a radiator grill 

available for LTZ 400, stainless steel R460 in a different 

design. www.sssracing.co.za 083-457-1666 






NEW ARRIVALS 

Air intake 

• Outer shell 600D polyester & 1650D ballistic nylon 

• 3M scotchlite for HI-VISIBILITY 

• Air take & air exhaust chambers for maximum air flow 

• Stretch panels 

• Fully equipped with CE Armors 

• Detachable thermal insulated liner with removable 

waterproof membrane 

Commando 

MENS JACKET 

R2,395.00 

• Outer shell 600D polyester & 1650D ballistic nylon 

• Removable waterproof lining 

• 100 gram detachable heat seam quilted liner 

• CE arm, shoulder and back protection 

• Ventilation zippers 

CAROLINE 

LADIES TOURING JACKET 

R3,250.00 

128 Thermal Gloves 

R838.00 

• Water Proof Gloves M/O Leather and Clarino with Hipura Insert 

• Kevlar threads for maximum strength 

• Kevlar molds to upper hand protection 

• High density rubber foam or tempered foam 

NIGHTINGALE 

LADIES SPORT JACKET 

R2,890.00 

Daniel Mulder Distributors are the official importers and distributers for Octane. For the full range and to find your nearest 

Octane dealer contact Daniel Mulder Distributors on 011 792 7691 or visit the website. Prices are at recommended retail and including VAT. 

Octane half horizontal.indd 1 

2016/06/23 9:36 AM

NEWS 


Super star studded team of SA Veteran 

Motocross Champions to enter the USA world 

vets race in California in November 

The largest team of South African 

top Veteran Motocross riders 

are set to tackle the International 

USA World Veteran race in 

California in November, 55 year 

old Tony Riddell ex GP rider 

and multiple Motocross national 

champion has put together 

the most colourful team of 

professional South African riders 

ever to race together as a team 

These South African national, 

springboks, and world 

champions, all respective heroes 

in there day still well known 

throughout the world and in this 

country will be coming together 

to attempt to take the overall 

honours in this World Champion 

event in November. 

The race is the largest World 

Vets event ever to be staged 

and will see riders from over 36 

countries taking part, organisers 

in the past have registered of 50 

000 spectators through the gate 

over the weekend of racing. 

The proposed team of 15 

formidable riders are the best 

of the best, multiple World 

Motocross Champions, USA 

based riders Greg Abertyn, 

Grant Langston, and Tyler 

Rattray have all shown their 

interest of being in the SA Team, 

joining them will be GP rider 

and multiple national German 

based rider Colin Dugmore, 45 

year old Ryan Hunt Springbok 

and Protea award winner a 

previous Pro Veteran winner plus 

international rider and multiple 

SA national champion who is 

still riding today and going for 

his 3 Decade SA National title 

championship win, Ryan is also 

one of the first supporters for the 

team with his famous Tork Craft 

Brand. Tony Riddell GP and SA 

National Champion, 43 year 

old Greg Skinny G Aspinall, SA 

National Champion and multiple 

Regional champion 37 year old 

Andre David and Billy Flanagan 

both well-known GP riders 

and a host of top provincial 

champions Dylan Smith, Gareth 

Swanepoel, James van Staden, 

35 year old Mark Ansley, 39 year 

old Dean Strydom and 34 year 

old Malcolm Ralphs 

“Never before has a Motocross 

team with so much talent 

and past success’s been put 

together to take on Motocross 

Vets from all over the World 

at this major event, knowing 

Motocross and these very 

capable riders, South Africa has 

a very good chance of taking an 

overall victory in the states,” said 

Roger Mc Cleery and leading 

legend in SA Motorsport. 

The team headed up by Tony 

Riddell have got it all together, 

but are looking for outside 

funds to make it all happen. 

“The huge expenses for the 

hired motorcycles, travel 

accommodation, entry fees, 

team support, transport, tyres, 

fuel and parts etc. is our biggest 

challenge,” said Tony Riddell. 

“The great thing for the sponsors 

that come on board get a bonus 

as our 3 World Champions 

Greg, Grant and Tyler all live in 

the States, the supporter that 

comes to the party gets these 

guys at a tremendous deal as 

these guys are already there and 

don’t need much support.” 

“ To make it all happen the 

team need in the region of R 

500 000 for a full exclusive team 

deal, or smaller brands can be 

accommodated for a 20% stake 

in the team, the team riders 

themselves will be paying in a 

similar amount as the complete 

program will come to just short 

of million rand.” 

“The media coverage for this 

event includes international 

media support, the plan is to 

have all this available for our 

local media and TV, plans are 

to put out the pre publicity 

campaign right up until we 

leave, and feedback of results 

and images for the racing from 

our camera support lady Annie 

Allen who will be with the team 

will feedback all the copy results, 

images and video footage for 

the huge planned post media 

program,” said Riddell 

Interested supporters, partners 

and sponsors can contact Tony 

Riddell on 079 442 1651 e-mail 

tonyriddell4@gmail.com 

Or Annie Allen on 011 516 009 

/ 082 922 3667 e-mail annie@ 

abcnd.co.za 

Released by Digger Marketing 

011 476 9350 / 083 449 5589 

ANGEL GT 



ANGEL ST 



On March 15th 2009, 15 














WIDE RANGE OF 

HELMETS 

LARGE SELECTION 

OF EVS GEAR 

THE ADVENTURE & DIRTBIKE SPECIALISTS IN PRETORIA! 

RIDE 

BEFORE YOU 

Drift cameras 

Garmin GPS in stock! 390LM 

& 590LM with brackets 

BUY! 

New Arai Tour X 4 

TEST HELMETS AVAILABLE 

Adventure spots 

RAM GPS & Phone mounts 

AGV AX8 

Steering Dampers 

KAROO 1 COMBO 

R2170 INC VAT 

110/80/19 

ONLY ON THE FOLLOWING SIZE 

150/70/17 

HEIDENAU K60 AVAILABLE FOR THE NEW 

BMW 1200 GS LC 170/60/17 & 120/70/19 

Sena SMH20 

Intercoms 1.0 

Bike to Bike - S 

All Giant Loop bags & accessories 

Handlebar bags / Soft tank bags / Soft top box bags 

Wide Foot pegs 

R4 EVS Neck Brace 

Leatt 

Ballistic 

Kalahari jackets 

Huge selection of USB & 12v 

plugs & adapters available 

Range of Leatt Neck Braces 

FULL RANGE OF ATG GEAR 

• STOVES • BRAAI’S 

• STRETCHERS • BAGS 

22 BLESBOK STR, KOEDOESPOORT 

087 808 3650 / 087 808 3649 / 012 751 2617 

Email: info@offroadcycles.co.za / Website: www.offroadcycles.co.za

NEWS 


Batt Holdings launch new competition 

soft Enduro Mousse range 

The soft Enduro mousse (0.4 bar) is available now in an 

80/100-21 front & 140/80-18 rear with the full range of 

sizes being available from 1st August. Batt Holdings tells us 

that they have increased the tear strength by 15% which 

surpasses any other mousse brand on the market. 

Darren Gray’s comment after racing on the mousse - Quote 

“The amount of grip was unbelievable, it’s honestly a weapon 

and it will be a perfect mousse to use from brand new for the 

Roof of Africa”… 


Yamaha’s YXZ1000R arrives in SA 

Yamaha has landed two of these monsters so far. You would 

have read about them when they were launched a few 

months ago, in this here publication – and although we were 

not invited along, it sure looks like a barrel of fun. Since we 

saw one of the machines at the Kyalami show, we have been 

petitioning Yamaha to please allow us to ride or test the unit – 

but all to no avail. We hear a rumour that maybe, maybe we’ll 

get a ride/drive soon – but only the mayors of fun know when 

that will be. In the interim, here are some lekker pics and a 

few specs. Pricing is unconfirmed as of yet, but man-o-man, 

the SXS wars are heating up… 

New torque rich 3-cylinder 998cc DOHC engine. 

Class leading acceleration and top speed . 

Rally-style sequential 5-speed transmission . 

On-Command 2WD/4WD/4WD Diff-Lock . 

Aggressive and unique styling. 

Stable and agile chassis with all 

round protection. 

Ultra-long travel Fox Podium 

shocks. 

Fighter pilot style cockpit 

with supersport 

instrumentation. 

Get to your 

local Yamaha 

dealer with any 

queries… 

DNA High performance 

Filters for The Honda 

Africa Twin 

DNA High Performance Air Filters are 

now available for the Honda Africa twin. 

• This set, consists of two filters and 

features DNA®’s advanced FCd¹ (Full 

Contour design). Installation info is 

included with this new DNA Filters set. 

• The filtering efficiency is extremely high 

at 98-99% filtering efficiency (ISO 5011), 

with 4 layers of DNA® Cotton. 

• They say that the flow of this new DNA 

filters’ set is +33.13% more than the 

stock filters. 

• These DNA filters are designed as High 

Flow Air filters for Road & Off road use. 

Available from dealers or www.bikewise. 

co.za for your closest stockist. 






MX MID HARD 









C 

M 

Y 

CM 

MY 

CY 

CMY 

K 


SOLUTIONS 

BATTERY CHARGERS 

DISTRIBUTED BY: DELTEC ENERGY SOLUTIONS 

CONTACT US : +2711 864 7930 I WEBSITE: WWW.DELTEC.CO.ZA 

FIND US ON

NEWS 


Red Bull Braveman – The toughest 1 day Enduro in Africa? 

Red Bull Braveman, touted as 

the toughest one day enduro in 

Africa, will again take place in 

2016 on 2 & 3 September at the 

Elisenheim Guest Farm 15km 

outside Windhoek. 

Riders from all over Namibia and 

South Africa joined the battle 

in 2015 to participate in either 

Gold, Silver or Bronze Class. 

This year, all of the classes 

will need to ride with GPS. No 

transponder system will be 

used. For the first time, the 

Red Bull Braveman has drawn 

international attention in the 

rider’s scene. 

On Friday, 2nd September at 

18:00 the Prologue will start at 

Elisenheim Guest Farm where 

participants will compete to 

determine the starting order for 

themain race. Each class will 

battle individually. The adrenaline 

pumping prologue draws many 

spectators. 

On Saturday, 3rd September 

at 6:00 the main race will 

commence to battle out who 

is the bravest of them all on 

an extreme track laid out 

between the scenic Elisenheim 

Mountains, Farm Hoffnung and 

other land under the authority of 

private farmers. 

According to the route 

designers, this year the Gold 

track will be even more difficult 

and will truly challenge the 

professional riders. 

In 2015 Wade Young from South 

Africa took 1st prize for the 2nd 

consecutive year in the Gold 

class, Kirsten Landman, the only 

female rider, won Silver Class 

and Namibian Rider Olaf Pack 

was crowned the winner of the 

bronze class. 

Dwayne Kleynhans conquered 

the tough obstacle course with 

the best lap time overall and 

finished the Gold class closely 

after Wade. 

“A very exciting change to the 

main race is our pit area. We 

have shifted the pit area 2.5km 

into the mountains on a hillside 

with spectacular views of the 

race, unlike we have ever had 

before”, says Jacques Coetzer, 

CEO of Interpack Namibia and 

designer of the Braveman track. 

Dirt and Trail Magazine will run a 

full feature on the race when it’s 

been run. Going to be epic!! 

More details on the event under 

www.interpackcc.com or on 

Facebook. 

SCORPION MT90 













NEWS 


MMA fighter sponsored by Giant 

Loop Luggage and Desert lizard 

Up and coming Port Elizabeth MMA fighter, Reece van 

der Merwe (PESFA), has been chosen to represent 

South Africa in the IMMAF World Championships in 

Las Vegas in July. On the 11th of June, along with 

the MMA South Africa team, Reece was awarded his 

South African colours. 

Because he needs to pay his own way to Las Vegas, 

Harold from Giant Loop Soft Luggage along with 

Desert Lizard South Africa helped contribute to his trip. 

Thank you Giant Loop for your generous support! 

We wish Reece all the best for his upcoming 

adventure! 

One of our lot stopped in at most of the dealerships 

in Maritzburg for a quick gander. Here are some of 

Durban Dealers: the stores you can visit in that neck of the woods. 

ANGEL GT 



Rocket racing PMB: 

Rocket racing PMB is a subsidiary of the wellknown 

Pinetown store. It’s a lekker little shop with 

Mike (brother of Wild Will Gillit) and Wayne, two of 

the most knowledgeable dirtbike people in the area. 

Service, parts and sales of most things motorcycle, 

but they do specialise in dirtbikes… (033)2643240 

KTM Durban Opens: 

There’s a new KTM dealer in Durban North at Shop 

11, Park Boulevard 11 Brownsdrift Road, Umgeni 

Park. A really top-class KTM dealership with all the 

delectable orange machines on the floor. They have 

stayed true to the KTM brand, by stocking and 

sourcing genuine KTM Powerparts and Powerwear, 

as well as associating themselveswith other 

allied KTM partners, like RedBull and Kini. Wayne 

O’Neale is in the workshop and Garth Monk is on 

the counters. (031) 035 0090 

ANGEL ST 



On March 15th 2009, 15 














NEWS 


Durban Dealers: 

One of our lot stopped in at most of the dealerships 

in Maritzburg for a quick gander. Here are some of 

the stores you can visit in that neck of the woods. 

Midlands Bike Tyre News: 

This friendly, busy shop in Maritzburg, 

Natal specialises in supply and fitment of all 

consumables, from Tyres, to pads, chains, helmets 

and all the usual riding clobber. They are well 

known for their great deals, services and stock 

holdings. Marius and Gaynor Stander are the 

people to talk to. 

(033) 386-0679 / 083-229-7856 

Ekerold Yamaha: 

One of the best known Yammie dealers in PMB, 

Ekerold Yamaha is headed up by the friendly 

Chris Malan and team. It’s a quality concern with 

professional workshop facilities, a great accessories 

bar and a very neat showroom. Good selection of 

new and used stock always on the floor. 

(033) 3453503 






Accessories Unlimited: 

Headed up by Bernadette and Andre Kriel, 

Accessories Unlimited in PMB is exactly what 

its name implies, a large selection of all sorts of 

motorcycling bits from helmets to tyes and more 

delectable bolt on bits like bars, plastics pegs and 

so-on. They also have a workshop and fitment 

centre… (033) 3424480 

Extreme machines: 

Extreme machines is the official Kawasaki Parts 

and service centre for the PMB area and surrounds. 

They are scooter specialists with an amazing range 

of parts and expertise on most scooter brands – 

and they stock Sym, Big boy and Jonway scoots, 

with the legendary Mervyn Koekemoer heading up 

the workshop… (033)345-5597 

MX MID HARD 










It takes you places! 

Honda CRF450X

KTM 2017 ENDURO 

RANGE UNVEILED 

COMPLETE DETAILS ON NEW-GENERATION KTM ENDURO RANGE. 

KTM has pulled the covers off 

its complete range of 2017 EXC-F 

and EXC enduro models, featuring 

substantial updates across the board 

that result in a lighter, stronger and 

faster package that’s Ready to Race 

regardless of your preferred choice. 

KTM had three major development 

targets when creating its brand new 

era in off-road riding: Weight reduction 

and centralisation of masses for better 

rideability, improved performance and 

power delivery, plus a new state-of-theart 

appearance. 

The massive range for 2017 

includes a mixture of models, led in 

the market by its 500, 450, 350 and 

250 EXC-Fs, as well as the 300 and 

250 EXCs. The 200 has been officially 

discontinued. 

On top of those, there’s the XC-W 

range of a 125, 250 and 300. And then on 

top of that, there’s the 450, 350 and 250 

XC-F models. For those not familiar, these 

are cross country bikes heavily based 

upon the SX-F and SX range. 

The lightweight chrome-moly steel 

frame, the base of the MY17 enduro 

series, features 

increased torsional 

rigidity by 20 

percent thanks to 

wider but lower 

profiles for 

the steering 

triangle 

combined 

with hydro-formed side tubes, providing 

more cornering and track stability. 

In addition, the longitudinal stiffness 

was reduced by 30 percent which results 

in better absorption of the impact energy 

from the suspension. Laterally attached, 

lightweight engine head stays also 

contribute to a reduced vibration level. 

The brand new sub-frame is also 

featured with a 20 percent weight saving 

over the previous generation. Overall 

the MY17 EXC frame is 350 grams 

lighter than its predecessor and a full 

kilogram lighter than that of the lightest 

competitor’s frame. 

To compliment the revised frame 

design, the MY17 range features the 

all-new WP XPlor 48 upside-down 

fork, a split fork developed by WP in 

close collaboration with KTM, featuring 

springs on both sides and the damping 

action is split between the fork legs – 

compression is on the left side and 

rebound is on the right. 

The forks are easily adjusted 

for compression and rebound by 

twisting the individual dials on 

top of the fork tubes (30 clicks 

each). In addition, a longer and 

sealed hydro-stop guarantees 

better resistance against 

bottoming-out. 


The new XPlor 48 forks with 300mm 

of travel have weight savings of around 

200grams over the previous generation 

of forks. In addition, a new, optional 

pre-load adjuster allows to quickly dial 

up one of three different spring pre-load 

settings without any tools. 

To match the new XPlor fork, the 

MY17 range features the newlydeveloped 

WP XPlor rear shock, 

which retains the signature 

KTM PDS design where the 

shock absorber is directly 

connected to the upper-side 

of the swingarm without a 

linkage system. 

The PDS’s been re-designed 

with a new frame and 

swingarm architecture in 

mind. It boasts the best 

possible mounting geometry, provides 

even more progressive damping and 

features an all-new shock absorber 

body with a smaller piston and a larger 

reservoir that’s positioned five millimetres 

more central. 

Ergonomically the seat height is 

approximately 10-20mm lower than last 

year, while reworked exhaust systems 

across the range improves performance 

despite being quieter and, again, are 

mass centralised. 

In addition, the new Lithium-Ion battery 

is 1000g lighter with higher starting 

safety, plus the newly-designed airbox 

and intake snorkels result in better 

performance. The new filter and filter 

support system make filter changes 

easier and safer. 

Brakes have been upgraded with a 

new front brake hose protection tube 

with integrated channel for speedo cable, 

there’s a new brake disc design made 

by Galfer, and the new rear pedal is 

10mm longer, with a 24mm brake caliper 

piston rather than 26. They have ‘No-Dirt’ 

footpegs that are six millimetres higher 

than the SX. 

As we’ve come to expect from the 

Austrian manufacturer, the KTM-designed 

throttle assembly has been refined for 

all models and the four-strokes have 

different inserts for different opening 

characteristics. There are also new lockon 

grips made by ODI. 

From this point we’ll get into the 

specific models, starting with the 500 

EXC-F and working our way down the 

order through the four-strokes, into the 

EXC two-strokes and then onto the XC 

and Six Days editions. 

DIRT & TRAIL MAGAZINE JULY 2016 31

500 EXC-F: 

For 2017, the KTM 500 EXC-F boasts 

notable weight savings for a higher-thanever 

power to weight ratio. 

At the same time, the enhanced mass 

centralisation and geometry delivered by 

an even more compact engine layout, 

among others, makes for an increase in 

rideability, which is absolutely essential 

to convert the power into a true racing 

benefit. 

The 500 EXC-F’s fuel-injected engine 

has been redesigned in order to make it 

the most compact and lightweight 500 

on the market, while still delivering strong 

torque and power figures across the 

entire rev range thanks to a revised single 

overhead camshaft cylinder head and the 

latest-generation electronic fuel injection. 

450 EXC-F: 

The MY17 450 EXC-F’s fuel-injected 

SOHC powerhouse has been redesigned 

with the aim of making it the most 

compact and lightest 450 on the market, 

while delivering great torque and power 

figures over the entire rev range. 

There’s a re-designed single overhead 

camshaft cylinder head and the latest 

Keihin Engine Management System with 

electronic fuel injection featuring an allnew 

42mm throttle body, a new feature 

on all MY17 EXC-F models. 

Thanks to its unique injector position, 

the 450 EX-F is said to feature a more 

direct response than ever before. At the 

same time, an Euro IV homologation 

makes clear the environmental 

performance is also on par. 

350 EXC-F: 

For MY17 the 350 EXC-F has once again 

been re-designed to be more compact 

and lighter while delivering increased 

torque and power across the entire rev 

range. The new design featuring an 

optimised shaft configuration makes the 

engine 20mm shorter for added mass 

centralisation and increased rideability. 

A major benefit of the new design 

is the weight reduction by which, 

including the electric start system, is 

down to 28.5kg, a 1.9kg decrease over 

the previous model. Two overhead 

camshafts activate friction-optimised 

finger followers, now with a 30 percent 

harder DLC coating. Their revised timing 

is optimised for strong low-end torque. 

Four lightweight titanium valves with 


new valve springs, retainers and highflow 

ports maximise the flow rate for 

a wide powerband and outstanding 

performance across an impressive rev 

range extending up to 12,000 rpm. 

The completely new design of the diecast 

engine case also allows for a much 

more centralised shaft configuration, 

moving the crankshaft closer to the bike’s 

centre of gravity, while the clutch shaft 

position has moved 11.1mm to the rear 

and 26.9mm upwards. 

This shortens the engine by two 

centimetres, contributing to the handling 

benefits of increased mass centralisation. 

Newly designed engine covers also 

feature an advanced surface structure in 

order to reduce the wear caused by the 

rider’s boots. 

The 350 EXC-F’s updated crankshaft 

employs a six millimetre shorter 

connecting rod, which also contributes 

to the compact and lightweight engine 

layout as well as the responsive power 

delivery. 

250 EXC-F: 

The MY17 250 EXC-F DOHC engine has 

been redesigned to be more compact 

and feature further weight improvements, 

while delivering class-leading torque 

and power figures across the board. Its 

foundation shares many of the same 

updates and components with the 350 

EXC-F engine and enjoys class leading 

performance with plenty of torque thanks 

to its advanced fuel injection system. 

The centrepiece of the compact DOHC 

250 is its cutting-edge cylinder head. Its 

twin overhead camshafts shed another 

150 grams for MY17 and the frictionoptimised 

finger followers receive a 30 

percent harder DLC coating along with a 

revised valve drive. 

Four light-weight titanium valves 

and high-flow ports maximise the flow 

rate for an optimal power delivery and 

outstanding performance across the rev 

range that reaches up to 12,800 rpm. 

The new 250 EXC-F, like its 2017 EXC-F 

counterparts, also features KTM’s 

‘No Dirt’ footpegs which have been 

placed 6mm higher than the SX 

versions for increased ground 

clearance. 

Stiffer radiators are also featured 

for increased durability. An 8.5 

litre fuel tank features across the 

range for long journeys and a 

new seat design, new air box design, 

updated body work and plastics, Neken 

handlebars and revised speedometer 

have also been fitted. 

250/300 EXC: 

For MY17, KTM has continued their 

commitment to two-stroke technology 

by re-designing their 250cc and 300cc 

powerplants. An all-new design with a 

new shaft arrangement ensures improved 

mass centralisation. 

There is a new cylinder with a twinvalve 

controlled power valve, a new 

counter balance shaft and both the 250 

& 300 feature a newly developed cylinder 

with a bore of 66.4mm (250 EXC) and 

72mm (300 EXC) with all-new ports. 


This system features a sophisticated 

mechanism for the lateral support 

exhaust ports, providing smooth and 

controllable power on tap at all times. 

The crankshaft’s 72mm stroke remains 

the same, but otherwise, the component 

has been fully re-designed, which 

includes re-balancing and setting it up 

with a counter balance shaft against 

vibrations. 

Compared to the SX range, it has more 

inertia due to a heavier ignition rotor. 

This helps the rider remain smooth and 

roll on the power for maximum traction 

in difficult conditions. The 250 and 300 

two-stroke engine is equipped with a 

new electric starter located below the 

engine. Compared to previous models, 

the new starter system is less complex 

and more reliable. 

125/150/300 XC-W: 

For 2017 the 125 EXC has been replaced 

by the new 125 XC-W, which features 

all of the latest chassis and engine 

technology of the larger EXC models, but 

without any homologation features or 

power restrictions. 

The ‘XC’ stands for cross country, 

while the ‘W’ signifies a wide-ratio enduro 

gear box. Otherwise, these bikes are 

still largely based on the EXC models, 

retaining the same type of chassis 

hardware as well as the latest engine 

technology. 

Being very similar to the EXC models, 

the main difference is that they are 

not street-legal as they do not comply 

with current homologation rules from 

the outset – the XC-Ws are defined for 

closed-course competition use only. 

There are also XC-W 150 and 300 models 

available in limited numbers. 

KTM-designed lightweight die-cast 

engine cases featuring a high crankshaft 

and clutch shaft position, located close 

to the centre of gravity, which results in 

a tight mass centralisation for improved 

rideability. 

In addition, the engine body is 

extremely lightweight and compact, while 

still able to house an optional electric 

starter. The newly designed engine covers 

also feature an advanced, highly durable 

new surface structure in order to reduce 

the wear caused by the riders boots. 

Increased power and impressive 

amounts of torque across a wide power 

band have been achieved in this new 

design which has been packaged in an 

extremely compact layout that is two 

kilograms lighter than the previous model. 

450/350/250 XC-F and 300/250 XC: 

KTM will also have on offer the XC-F and 

XC cross country variants, with a mixture 

of off-road and motocross features, 

including the 450 XC-F, 350 XC-F, 250 

XC-F four-strokes, as well as the XC 300 

and XC 250 two-strokes. 

These are largely based off the MY17 

SX-F and SX range, including the new 

and highly anticipated WP AER 48 

front fork, as well as Traction Control 

and Launch Control. There’s also an 

assortment of cross country features 

including revised transmissions, fuel tank 

sizing, side-stand, wheel sizing and more. 

Six Days: 

In addition to the new cross country XC 

range, KTM will also offer the popular 

Six Days range of motorcycles, which 

includes various models from across the 

MY17 line-up. 

The Six Days range is based largely off 

the EXC range featuring the same WP 

XPlor 48 upside-down fork along with a 

predominately white colour scheme and 

select features aimed at extended lengths 

of time out on the trail. 

www.ktm.com 


Photo: R. Schedl 

www.kiska.com 

WINTER 

MADNESS! 

R 5,000 KTM VOUCHER 

Buy a new 2016 KTM 300 XCW, 250 XCF-W, 350 XCF-W, 450 XC-W 

or 500 XC-W and receive a KTM voucher to the retail value of R 

5,000. Offer valid while stocks last. T’s and C’s apply. 

Phone 011 462 7796 for your nearest KTM dealer. 

Please make no attempt to imitate the illustrated riding scenes, always wear protective clothing and observe the applicable provisions of the 

road traffic regulations! The illustrated vehicles may vary in selected details from the production models and some illustrations feature optional 

equipment available at additional cost. 

KTM Group Partner

Pics by Zygs, words by Garran. 

Graeme Goldblatt gets 

some power down. 

Caleb Tennant 

kicks some sand. 

DAY IN 

THE DUNES 

FREERIDING ATLANTIS - CAPE TOWN 

Good catching up and thanks for showcasing some of the 

images from Atlantis with a few of our athletes we supporting. 

The concept behind this all is to bring the fun back into riding 

your dirt bike in a non-competitive environment. 

This is what Recked Industries is all about. It’s a lifestyle 

brand focusing good times on the bike. 

Gear currently available on GO-MX www.go-mx.co.za 

Devan de Villiers 

Marais buries it... 

Seth van Der 

Abeele - Husky, 

Vinny gets 

Greasy. 


SHRED DIRT, NOT 

YOUR BUDGET. 

You want the thrill and excitement of blasting your nearest track or trail but you don’t want it to 

cost an arm and a leg. Big Boy’s Zooka Pit Bikes provide amazing value and off road enjoyment for 

the whole family while our junior ATVs are the perfect starting point for aspiring 4-wheeler fans. 

Visit an authorised dealer today for the value-packed range or browse at www.bigboy.co.za. 

TTR125S R13,499.00 

JNR90 R9,999.00 

CRX110 ATV 

R13,999.00 

PUMA 110 

R10,199.00 

TSR250 R23,499.00 

TSR125 R21,499.00 

BIG BOY COMMERCIAL: Call Dirk 011 794 6399 for more info on our wide range of COMMERCIAL & UTILITY SOLUTIONS. 

LOADER 200 R33,999.00 

MONSTER D460 (Diesel) R69,999.00 

ENTERPRISE 170 R18,499.00 

BOX LOADER 200 R42,999.00 

HOTLINE: 011 794 6399 • www.bigboyscooters.co.za 

CCL150 R13,499.00 

* BOX NOT INCLUDED 

Prices include VAT and pre-delivery inspection only. Prices exclude licence, registration and any service costs unless specified. 

Prices are correct at the time of going to print and may change without notice due to currency fluctuations or at dealers who 

are located in outer-lying areas. All advertised models are available at the time of going to print unless specified. 

Join us on 

HotCams End Wld April ’11 3/14/11 10:07 AM Page 1 

GraphicWerx Advertising cc 

Southern African Motorcycles Holdings 

PivotWorks End Wld April ’11 3/14/11 9:54 AM Page 

BBS Dirt&Trail July 2016 1 

2016/06/21 12:05 PM 

SUSPENSION KITS AVAILABLE 

FOR ALL ADVENTURE BIKES

Seth van Den Abeele 

HUSQVARNA

ADVENTURE 

2 0 1 6 T R I U M P H T I G E R 

EXPLORER 

A R R I V E S I N S A ! 


Xcx R205.000 

Xca R225.000 

The bikes are here but we have yet to 

get our mitts on to it. Next month we’ll 

do a full local test, but in the interim – 

here’s a teaser… 

Triumph’s big three-cylinder ADV get 

big updates. 

The English Society for the Preservation 

of Letters warned last night that national 

stocks of X, C and R were critically low. 

“If this goes on, people will be diving 

ars, the banks will un out of ash and we’ll 

have nothing to mark the spot with,” said 

ESPL president Roger Witherspoon, a 

retired librarian from Tunbridge Wells. “Not 

to mention the implications for Scrabble.” 

“And it’s all Triumph’s fault. First they 

introduced the Tiger 800 XC, XCx, XR and 

XRx, and now they’ve come up with the 

Explorer XC, XCx, XR, XCA, XRx and XRT.” 

Triumph have been producing a bike 

called a Tiger since 1937 or so, and 

while it has morphed a lot over that 

time,(thank goodness) it has always had 

an adventurous travel quality. Ted Simon 

wrote Jupiter’s Travels about his ride 

around the world on his Tiger, so one 

could understand if Triumph didn’t want to 

take any risks with such an iconic name. 

Instead, they have done something that 

could be seen as bold, by adding more 

electronic features and integrating them 

at a deeper level than any Triumph model 

before (and indeed, on the cutting edge 

for any brand). These electronics aren’t 

peripheral gimmicks, they are at the heart 

of the bike, so if Triumph got it wrong, 

they risked tainting a name that carries a 

lot of heritage. 

The hard parts of the bike, including 

frame, engine and ergonomics, are all 

updated from the previous version, 

but the big changes start with the 

suspension. Triumph is now using WP 

suspension, and while WP is owned by 

KTM and the components look similar 

to those on a 1290 Adventure from the 

outside, Triumph is responsible for its 

own chassis development and has taken 

a very different approach compared to 

KTM for tuning. Additionally, they have 

worked with Continental to develop 

an IMU (inertial measuring unit) that 

manages cornering ABS, traction control, 

and the electronic suspension actively 

on the versions that come so equipped. 

Within this same control scheme, 

they have added a layer of engine 

management via throttle-by-wire that 

allows them to give very different engine 

characteristics in different modes. 

There are not many options to select 

on the Tiger Explorer–instead Triumph 

offers tiered trim variations; packages 


that can be interpreted as basic, mid-level, and 

fully equipped. The more street oriented bikes 

with cast wheels are called XRs (base XR, mid 

XRx, and topshelf XRa), and the more off-road 

friendly spoked-wheel version XC (XCx mid 

and XCa top). 

To date, the Spoked XCX and the XCA are 

here, with the mag shod XRX and XRT on their 

way soon. 

All have the full complement of electronics, 

which is probably the biggest news. The 

XR and XC lines share suspension, wheel 

sizes (19 in. front, 17 in. rear), engine output, 

and so on. So for a buyer, the decision will 

probably come down to which version the 

dealer has in stock and which wheel type is 

more appealing for the buyer’s intended riding 

terrain. 

On models equipped with electronic 

suspension, the bike has nine on-road and 

nine off-road suspension presets, ranging from 

Comfort on the soft end, to Sport on the firm 

end. The adjustment is made by a solenoid 

acting on the shim pack, so these are not 

simple clicker bleed adjustments, but rather, 

completely different damping curves for each 

setting. 

In addition to the suspension settings, there 

are electronic settings for engine output, 

throttle response, traction control, and ABS. 

In theory, there are hundreds of possible 

combinations between all these settings, and it 

is easy to imagine getting lost. But in practice, 

this is unlikely. Triumph has recognized that 

there are really only a few combos that make 

sense and they have grouped them into modes 

(Sport, Road, Rain, Off-road, and Rider). 

So, for example, Sport mode has sharp 

throttle response, ABS and TC with less 

intervention, and stiffer suspension. Road 

mode moderates each of these settings 

somewhat, and Rain mode softens them 

again and cuts the engine output back to 

100 horsepower to reduce the chance of 

wheelspin. Off-road mode allows the rear 

brake to be locked while allowing more 

aggressive ABS on loose surfaces, and limits 

output. Rider mode is a wildcard that allows 

the owner to customize each and every aspect 

as desired. 

Within each ride mode, the rider has an 

option to tune suspension settings on the fly. 

At a stop, one can toggle into the menus and 

change all preferences within the mode. These 

preferences are durable, so it will remember 

after you switch the bike off and back on what 

you like in each mode. 

If your eyes are glazing over, ours are too. 

But they tell us that once you are out on the 

road, it all makes sense, and doesn’t distract 

from the riding experience. It sounds like 

Triumph have taken the right approach in 

allowing the rider access to all the finer details, 

but curating them into usable groups that truly 

improve the function of the bike without being 

distracting or gimmicky. 

Triumph refers to these bikes as a 

transcontinental bike – something that would be 

used not only on fun roads at a destination but 

as a mile-eater to get there. 

We’ve booked one From Triumph SA for a 

proper test in the next issue. We’ll give you our 

ride impressions. We love the 800XCX. The 

previous Explorer is great but it is definitely 

more of a road oriented machine, it will be very 

interesting to see whether they have managed 

to build a true blue big adventure bike… 

Watch this space… 

Additional to Tiger Explorer XCX 

Standard Equipment 

· Superior active safety with Optimised 

Cornering ABS and Traction Control 

· 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit 

· Triumph Semi Active Suspension (TSAS) with 

WP forks and RSU 

· Dedicated Off-Road Riding Mode 

· Cruise Control 

· Advanced On Board computer 

· Self-cancelling LED indicators 

· Heated Grips 

· Hand Guards 

· Additional 12V Power Socket 

· Aluminium sump guard 

· Engine Protection Bars 

· Stainless radiator guard 

Additional to Tiger Explorer XCA 

· Hill Hold Control system 

· Two extra Riding Modes - the dynamic Sport 

and the fully customizable Rider 

· Electrically adjustable Touring screen 

· LED auxiliary fog lights 

· Heated rider and passenger seat 

· Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) 

CNC Machined Footrests 

· Pannier rails ready for Triumph Adventure 

panniers 


Ultimate go anywhere, do anything motorcycle. 

2016 Explorer XCa 

R224 500 

• Electrically adjustable Touring screen 

• Hill Hold Control 

• LED fog lights 

• “Sport” and fully customizable “Rider” riding mode 

• Traction Control 

• ABS 

• Brembo monobloc radial callipers - front 

• TSAS - suspension 

• Heated grips 

• Heated seats 

• Pannier rails 

• Cruise control 

T’s & C’s Apply 

Triumph’s SA # 1 dealer in Gauteng - since 2000 

T15107 

Traditional 

Triumph 

• Wide range of Triumph clothing 

• Dedicated Triumph Dealership 

• Wide range of pre-owned motorcycles available 

• Triumph second hand spares available 

147 Van Riebeeck Avenue, Edenvale 

Tell: 011 609 4590 

Fax: 011 452 0443 

Cell: 082 492 7103 

triumphcon@iafrica.com

ADVENTURE 

PO 


WER 

D u c a t i M u l t i s t r a d a E n d u r o 

PACKAGE 

Super bike pow er in a cros s-c ountr y p a c k a g e 

A few years ago, we had the opportunity to ride 

the more road oriented Ducati Multistrada that we 

borrowed for a day from Moto Frisoli in Edenvale. 

expensive than any other adventure-ish machine 

out there - and we were a tad nervous about 

taking it anywhere that might cause bodily harm. 

This one is a proper adventure bike. 

Over the past 15 years or so “niche” brands, 

like Ducati, MV Agusta and KTM have gradually 

joined their European counterpart BMW to 

become mainstream players in the motorcycle 

industry. It is interesting to note the same process 

has taken place with many of the exotic car 

brands. Lamborghini in particular springs to mind 

because it and Ducati are now part of the VW- 

Audi-Porsche stable. 

With the launch of the new Ducati Multistrada 

Enduro, Ducati has released a bike that is just 

about on a Par with the cost of the other big 

adventure bikes out there. We have to make 

mention of the fact that Ducati JHB is one of the 

very few importers who have just about every 

bike available for demo purposes. Bums in seats 

sells bikes. Well done chaps. They gave us the 

Multistrada 1200 enduro for a day and we rode 

the wheels off the thing. 

So what makes this different to the regular 

Multistrada? 

Well - according to Ducati, the Multistrada 

1200 Enduro has 266 all new parts, and that 

excludes the nuts and bolts. The gearbox gets 

mapping. The new suspension is tuned for offroad 

riding, with 30mm more travel front and rear. 

The front Axle has been off-set, which gives the 

bike an additional degree of rake and four more 

millimetres of trail. The single sided swingarm is 

with a new hub and redesigned rear brake system. 

All just for you adventure fundi’s. 

with a 19 inch front, shod in the Pirelli Scorpion 

Rally Tyre. The wheels have traditional spokes, 

laced like BMW so that the wheels can use 

tubeless tyres. One feature that caught our eye 

was the absolutely gorgeous wheel hubs which 

are cast alloy and are intricately machined for 

lightness without compromising strength. If you 

are wondering how anyone could spend time 

admiring a wheel-hub, take a moment to look 

at the hubs on the next Multistrada you come 

across. Only Italians could have done this. Fuel 

capacity has been bumped up to 30 litres - 

perfect for long distances. We managed to ride 

DIRT & TRAIL MAGAZINE JULY 2016 45 

1607 DT Multistrada SA.indd 45 2016/06/27 7:55 AM

out a whole tank, in excess of 

300kms’s but sorry chaps for 

some reason we did not get 

exact smileage. 

So how does all this 

technical effort translate into 

performance on the road? 

For a start the Ducati’s new 

owners must have persuaded 

the Italian R&D department to 

actually go and buy one each 

of the competitors’ bikes and 

find out how they go about 

their business. In the past 

Ducati Multistrada’s have 

been quite different to most 

adventure bikes and often not 

really competitive with the likes 

of BMW’s GS range. Ducati’s 

new Multistrada changes all 

that. This bike takes on the 

best, and more. It has the 

comfort of the big BMW, the 

performance of most of the 

KTM’s and added to all of 

this it has style! Italians make 

gorgeous bikes and cars, and 

the Multistrada is no exception. 

Initial impressions: 

Collecting the bike, we 

realised that few bikes are 

as beautifully crafted as this 

one. Only the Eyeties would 

get away with some of the 

innovations that they have 

included, but it’s a head turner 

from every angle. In the flesh, 

well although beauty is in 

the eye of the beholder, it is 

absolutely stunning. In a snap 

survey amongst as many 

motorcyclists as we could 

find gathered on a Sunday 

breakfast run, most of them 

agreed. Ducati does not seem 

to do mass production. Things 

that might look odd on a Jap 

bike look right at home on this 

one - from the strange stubby 

pipe, to the brushed aluminium 

tank covers, the attention to 

detail is pretty awesome. 

This is no lightweight. 

When we fetched, we were 

immediately given a sense of 

- well bigness. From the wide 

seat, to the protective faring, 

this bike is on a par in size with 

BMW’s 1200 Adventure. 

Climbing aboard, we were 

impressed that the seat height 

is not ridiculous - and you get 

a sense of sitting in the bike 

rather than on it. The large 

tank wraps around the front 

of your knees. Wide bars give 

you control and the simple, 

adjustable screen offers 

excellent wind protection. 

The LED display is huge and 

easy to read - and switching 

through all of the electronics 

(There are lots of those) is 

all a pretty simple affair. The 

Ducati Multistrada features all 

the electronics we have come 

to expect on modern high 

performance Adventure bikes. 


It has several levels of traction 

control, ABS, three different 

performance maps, heated grips 

and a remote key system. (There 

is no keyhole for the ignition key, 

you keep it in your pocket and 

simply press an “on” button and 

then the starter once the bike has 

come to life.) All of these systems 

are controlled by handlebar 

switches, and all work whilst the 

bike is on the move (except of 

course the start button!) The Ducati 

has the best instrument cluster 

and selector switch for all this 

electronic trickery… it is positioned 

perfectly for quick reference and 

all the electronic choices are 

very easy to select. Every bit of 

information is easy to understand 

with just a quick glance, which 

must add to the safety factor. We 

have ridden bikes where a degree 

is needed to select anything, 

and trying to follow the selection 

process on the instruments means 

taking your eyes of the road for a 

dangerously long time. 

Having not ridden any form 

of Ducati for a few years made 

this bike especially intriguing to 

us - how would a brand famous 

for their road bikes fare with their 

adventure offering. At a standstill, 

the bike did feel rather large and 

heavy... 

Hit the starter... man there is 

something just so unique about 

the sound that a snarling Ducati 

makes. It’s a proper roar emitted 

through the beautifully crafted 

stubby pipe - not overly loud, but 

unmistakeably Ducati. 

Snick her into gear and muscle 

her around. At standstill she felt a 

tad top heavy, but this went away 

as soon as the wheels started 

turning. Talking of wheels, these 

spoked units were shod in very 

off-roady Pirelli rubber. The tyres 

were pretty noisy on the tar and 

we reckon that they won’t last too 

long. We would probably opt for 

a more road oriented tyre for any 

bike like this. 

Making our way down the manic 

(read heavily congested, suicidal 

taxi operators and general I don’t 

give a damn Joburg Traffic) William 

Nicol drive, you get a sense of 

indestructability as you roar along. 

Yup it’s big, but it’s also pretty 

nimble, with 160BHP on tap for 

you to play with. The engine is a 

90 degree 1200cc V twin derived 

from the very successful Panigale 


superbike. It features Ducati’s patented 

desmodromic valve system (don’t worry 

what this is, just take it from us, it works 

and helps this engine make serious 

power and torque at any speed). 

Hit the freeway and this is where the 

Ducati starts to show its racing pedigree. 

There is something quite raw about 

the Ducati engine – it’s perhaps not as 

refined as some of the big bore offerings 

out there - but we like that. The rider is 

ensconced in a bubble as you open the 

throttle and she leaps forward to eat 

up the kilometres. Best you watch out 

though, the fuzz is just waiting for bikes 

like this. It does not feel as fast as it 

really is and before you know it you are 

blitzing along at Mach 4. Best to set the 

cruise control to 125kph odd and be a 

responsible citizen. The combination of 

shape, width and firmness is excellent, 

and makes long hours on the move easy 

to cope with. 

Damn there’s lots to do today - but 

what the heck – let’s take the long way 

round. Hit a route for over Fishers Hill 

where we used to go and look over 

the lights of JHB with our favourite 

girlfriends... Times they are a-changing, 

Fishers Hill is all fenced in now - nowhere 

to stop and take a snap... real shame, 

but the twisties are still super cool as you 

open the throttle and imagine that you 

are Carl Fogarty. 

The seat is comfortable - but there is 

a bit of engine heat radiating through. 

Fine for winter, but we’ll check it out 

again in summer. The screen offers great 

protection and can be adjusted up or 

down on the fly via a clever clip system. 

Heading for home in the evening, the 

lights cut a swathe showing the way. One 

of the coolest bikes we’ve ridden this 

year... Tomorrow its off-road time... 

Day 2 saw us in the dirt. 

Guys we are going to say this... You 

need to ride this bike to understand how 

good it is in the dirt. The suspension 

and handling is simply superb. We are 

not sure how Ducati has achieved this 

but, despite the size of this machine, we 

literally hurled it around on the tracks and 

trails on some of our favourite haunts. 

Every time we hit a little lurker or rocky 

piece, we kinda waited for things to go 

wrong - and they didn’t... 

On good gravel, it is 

tremendous, excitingly powerful 

and really stable. On the small 

single spoors, we threaded 

our way over small rocky 

pieces through the veld and the 

bike felt perfectly at home with 

the Pirelli tyres finding great traction. And 

standing is perfectly natural, with the 

rubber mounted bars helping to absorb 

the lurkers. 

When we started getting airborne, the 

editor of this here publication decided 

that it was perhaps time to call it a day. 

Quit while we’re ahead. It’s easy to 

forget that you are actually on a massive 

adventure machine. 

Conclusions: 

Adventure aficionados, this bike is 

simply amazing. We love the rawness of 

the Ducati engine. We love the overall 

distance comfort and we are blown away 

by how good this bike is off the beaten 

tracks. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea - 

we’ve often been quoted that the big 

adventure machines are simply too big 

for the kind of riding that we enjoy. 

But man - oh man - if you are into the 

whole big Adventure phenomenon, best 

you go and ride one. 

R242 900 for the base model. 

Touring or sports pack add 15k. 

(011) 919-1600 


ADVENTURE 

ADVENTURE BIKING AT 

OPPIDAM. 

AN MPUMALANGA GEM 

Mpumalanga’s rolling green hills and 

winding roads are my favourite riding 

ground, so when Rassie Schoeman 

invited me and a few friends to recce 

his new resort on Vygeboom Dam 

near Badplaas, I grabbed my phone 

and started dialing. Within minutes 

riding stalwarts Rodger Gannaway and 

Arne Herz had signed on, whereafter 

Frans Havinga agreed to represent the 

BMW Central Region Motorrad Club. 

They’re always looking for new places 

to visit, so Frans’s role was to evaluate 

Oppidam’s potential for his club. 

An early Friday morning exit through 

Springs and on to Devon, then Leandra 

saw us riding past huge fields of 

cosmos, before we reached the coal 

and power station belt near Kriel. Here 

we deflated our tyres for the dirt and 

potholed tarmac to come. Fortunately 

cool morning air kept the sand firm, 

not fluffy, so we arrived in Carolina 

unscathed, but in serious need of a 

protein and sucrose top-up. Messrs 

Wimpy and Coca Cola soon sorted 

that out, after which we toured happily 

down to Badplaas, where Rodger’s 

gal Jenny met us in their Toyota 

grondbuster. From there it was a quick 

ten kilometer trip on the R38 past the 

turnoff to Swaziland and the R541 to 

Waterval Boven, before Vygeboom 

Dam’s turnoff appeared on our left. 

A bit of sand dancing saw us safely 

around the dam to Rassie’s place, 

where a warm welcome, comfortable, 

homely accommodation and delicious 

supper awaited us. 

by PATRICK MOORE 


DIRT & TRAIL MAGAZINE JULY 2016 5 3

Too much power and the wrong 

back tyre sees Rodger down 

Bromberg looms over 

Vygeboom Dam 

Rassie’s Oppidam setup can 

accommodate up to eighty guests 

in a combination of houses, modern 

caravans, luxury tents and even 

houseboats, while his well stocked 

shop will supply you with world 

class, carefully matured steak and 

lots of other goodies too, for your 

stay. He’ll also be stocking spare 

tubes, tyres, clutch cables and 

other biking essentials, while his 

fully equipped workshop will make 

light work of any repairs required, as 

Arne discovered. 

Saturday morning saw us up 

early for a motorized assault on 

the looming Bromberg, which 

towers over the road to Waterval 

Boven like a sleeping sphinx. 

Underground activity causes it to 

rumble periodically, hence its name, 

so I checked my XT’s ejector seat 

thoroughly before setting off, just in 

case a rapid exit became necessary. 

Luckily the mountain was quiet that 

morning, but our bikes certainly 

weren’t as we revved, wheelspun, 

slipped and slithered over its grassy, 

rubble strewn surface. Eventually 

a combination of my XT’s pulling 

power, a soft Metzeller Karoo 3 

back tyre, luck and determination 

allowed me to scramble and claw 

my way up to Bromberg’s summit, 

where I collapsed on a sunny 

rock, surrounded by superb views 

of Vygeboom Dam and a distant 

Swaziland border. 

Copious water and several 

glucose tablets later I’d recovered 

enough to resume my journey 

on up the trail, to a mini plateau, 

where weathered surrounding 

rocks reminded me of the upland 

scenes from the Lord of the Rings 

movie. Fortunately there weren’t 

any marauding mountain trolls 

around, so I resumed the trail up 

an old firebreak and over some 

gnarly rocks, until a heathery section 

started taking me westwards, away 

from my friends and civilisation. 

Bromberg scenery 

The trail back down Bromberg 


Arne fixing his Dakar in 

Rassie’s workshop 

Oppidam house 

On the way up Bromberg 

Exploring further was definitely a job for 

another day, so I executed a smart about 

turn and slid my way back down Bromberg 

over millions of loose rocks, to where 

Rassie and my mates were waiting. 

Debriefing over, we headed for the 

nearby Badplaas resort and Nature 

Reserve, where Rassie’s quad tour 

manager Steve Hands was waiting. 

Steve’s an ex headmaster, so we all 

listened carefully when he explained 

the drill, then followed him quietly into 

the reserve itself. Quad mounted Jenny 

photographed us as we idled gently 

past herds of blesbok, hartebees, eland, 

impala, buffalo and a lone giraffe, then 

pulled up for a breather at a beautiful new 

bass dam. Time constraints prevented us 

from exploring the reserve’s remoter areas, 

but we’d seen enough for Frans to agree 

that his dirt newbie Club members would 

enjoy the experience too, then headed 

back to Oppidam for a special treat. 

Houseboats are new to me, but as 

soon as we stepped on board one of 

Rassie’s ten seaters I felt comfortable in 

its stable embrace. Several cold Amstels, 

plenty of delicious snacks, good music 

and a glowing sunset, followed by a star 

shot night sky, eased us into moods of 

mellow contentment that made even our 

aches feel good. Fine booze, excellent 

company and a remarkable environment 

were followed by a feast of gargantuan 

proportions, prepared by Rassie’s wife 

Valerie’s own fair hands. I’ve eaten some 

great steaks, but Valerie’s butcher’s 

carefully matured and perfectly braaied 

specimens were simply sublime – real 

melt in your mouth perfection….available 

from Oppidam’s store too when you 

visit. Several hours later we all staggered 

and rolled off to our comfortable beds, 

having enjoyed food and hospitality fit 

for the gods, from two of the best hosts 

that anyone could ever wish to meet. I 

slept exceptionally well that night, as the 

outstanding food and drink eased away 

the aches and pains that were the price of 

conquering Bromberg. 

Sunday morning saw Frans slabbing 

it home to his family, happy that my 

promises about Oppidam’s potential 

for BMW Club visits were true. Arne, 

Rodger and I decided to take the long 

way back, so after thanking Rassie and 

Valerie for their wonderful care, we headed 

off eastwards towards Barberton. At 

Nelshoogte we turned left onto a rough 

4WD only track, that took us through 

forests and across rivers to the Nkomati 

Mine. Rodger’s GPS saved us from 

a serious detour or two as there are 

plenty of forks in the trail, but very few 

signboards,……. rather like life itself. 

Out of Nkomati Mine the tarmac twisties 

were simply superb, until we turned right 

down the dirt road to Waterval Boven. 

Three years have elapsed since I was last 


GS1200, XT660 and reserve bokke 

on it, during which time nature’s been 

busy, but the roads department definitely 

hasn’t. Crater like ruts, rocks and swampy 

mud runs were the order of the day as we 

picked our way along, with relative newbie 

Arne getting an excellent opportunity to 

practice his recently acquired riding skills. 

The view overlooking Waterval Boven 

made it all worthwhile however, as Rodger 

and I basked in it and the warm sunshine 

of a late Highveld summer. A fill up down 

below gave Rodger the opportunity to 

confirm that Jenny was safely home, then 

he and Arne slabbed it back along the 

toll road, while I sniffed out some more 

excellent dirt to Belfast, before jumping 

onto the hard stuff too. 

Thumpers don’t make the best tarmac 

cruisers, but a reupholstered saddle eased 

my way back home to the wife and dogs, 

followed by one of her tasty chicken 

suppers. Relaxing in a warm bath gave 

me the opportunity to reflect once more, 

about how people like Rassie and Valerie 

make ours the best adventure biking 

country in the world, so if you also want 

to enjoy a sublime break at Oppidam, just 

call Valerie on 082 458 5713 to arrange 

your booking… 

The resort is at S57 52’7” E30 36’49” 

and there’s lots of watersport stuff to do 

as well as the biking. Children are most 

welcome, grandparents too and you 

can even bring your boat or fly down to 

the airstrip nearby. Dirt bikes are NOT 

welcome however, but you can always hire 

some of the fleet of family friendly quads 

there for a bumble around, or a trip up 

Bromberg itself. 

Taking on Bromberg bikewise can be 

arranged through Rassie himself, but 

please fit good semi knobblies, wear 

proper safety kit and have a full hydration 

pack too. Successful riders will receive 

appropriate recognition as well as a 

special steak supper. 

RIDE SAFELY AND ENJOY YOURSELF 

PATRICK MOORE 

The manne at Badplaas waterfall 

Where we stayed at Oppidam 

Rassie at the houseboat’s helm 


WINTERTON 

NATIONAL 

ENDURO 

Riders braved the elements as the Liquorland National Enduro 

Championship made its way to a cold, wet, windy and 

muddy Port Elizabeth at the weekend. 

The provisional top five were Travis Teasdale, Wade Young, Brett 

Swanepoel, Altus de Wet and Scott Bouverie. 

We arrived in PE the friendly City on Thursday morning. We were 

fortunate enough to stay at the Protea Marine on the beachfront 

with an amazing view of the beach. No time to sight see we met with 

Darren Bishop of Rover Motorcycle Club and partner of Race Control; 

immediately we all got stuck into finishing touches on what was 

set to be the best round of the Liquorland National Enduro Series to 

date. 

With a cancellation after no results in Heidelberg collectively we had 

our hands full, we had to pull together in all ways possible to make 

sure we had what the Winterberg is known for – one of the best and 

most historic events on the South African Enduro Championship 

calendar. 

Set at the Oval out on the Mission Road, a perfect setting for what 

was to be a brilliant National Enduro. One problem was trying to 

put tent pegs in the ground; when you call for a Jack Hammer from 

Talisman Hire in PE you know the natural soil is like concrete. 

Teams arrived with drills and long drill bits ready to drill holes prior 

to hammering tent pegs. Funny at first, but no joke when pits are the 

forefront of any team or racer. 

Thursday night the wind picked up in true traditional PE fashion, 

it was howling like a wolf calling its pack for a hunt of the “Prize”, 

synonymous with the riders in transit to race at the historic Winterberg 

for their fight for the prize. Then early morning rain started, the 

start of what was to come for the riders on Saturday being “D-day”. 

Wet, cold, windy and muddy conditions did not make it an easy task 

for organisers, pit crew and riders. 

The excitement was imminent at riders registration; riders had the 

sense of peace that their previous worries of no result was in the 

past. Race Control came to the party after a previous let down of 

no results at the Heidelberg National which after all had the results 

cancelled, calling the event a non-championship round. With the 

negatives behind us we were ready to race. 

race pages 

info@xstreme.co.za 58 DIRT & TRAIL MAGAZINE JUNE 2016 

- www.xstreme.co.za

The Rover Club had worked hard to pull everything together 

to make sure that Round 2 was a great success, Powasol Events 

in support as Race Promoters and Race Control as the Timing 

Team. 

Cold, wet, windy and muddy – that was the challenge ahead for 

the riders, beside for an amazing faultless track put together 

by Track Director Scott Woods riders were in for a race to be 

remembered. 

We started at 8am sharp with these top 20 riders 

lined up and ready to twist the throttle in batches 

of two per row. 

Riders sped off under the Liquorland Arch 

and head into a well prepared Regularity 

then the start of the first Special – an 

Extreme Special of 2.8Klms. Here, riders 

experienced the full extent of the wet, 

muddy conditions. Slippery rocks and 

clay off camber sections caused some testing 

times as the day progressed. 

Special 2 was the Enduro Special, set in pure 

Winterberg fashion – rocky climbs, slippery ups and 

downs and single track. Special 3 was the Cross Special 

set near the finish line – a neatly prepared track with a 

grass section and a quarry with some man made obstacles. 

Riders were enjoying the track. 

proudly sponsored by jt racing

ace pages 

RESULTS 

CLUB OPEN 

1 104 : Tim Young 

2 D1 : Juan Van Rooyen 

3 217 : Max Jordaan 

4 37 : Dale Stock 

5 E116 : Andrew Wren 

CLUB SENIORS 

1 C293 : Brenton Von Waltsleben 

2 707 : Cj Basson 

3 E175 : Gary Thomas 

CLUB SILVER 

1 949 : Johan Van Eyk 

2 C862 : Kyle-Ross Rehse 

3 C839 : Philippe Lapere 

4 C161 : Jacques Pieterse 

5 C360 : Leon Lochner 

NATIONAL E1 

1 111 : Brett Swanepoel 

2 771 : Scott Bouverie 

3 77 : Kyle Flanagan 

4 E118 : Mauritz Meiring 

5 E11 : Eduan Bester 

NATIONAL E2 

1 E1 : Travis Teasdale 

2 55 : Wade Young 

3 166 : Altus De Wet 

4 1 : Kenny Gilbert 

5 E717 : Richie Van Der Westhuizen 

NATIONAL HIGHSCHOOL 

1 E121 : Calvin Hume 

2 217 : Max Jordaan 

3 E41 : Stefan Van Deventer 

4 E477 : Matthew Green 

national master 

1 E31 : Hilton Hayward 

2 E32 : Denzil Torlage 

3 24 : Justin Broughton 

4 540 : Garth Prost 

5 598 : Warner Trimmer 

national senior 

1 E22 : Bruce May 

2 63 : Wynand Kleynhans 

3 340 : William Gillitt 

4 E52 : Graham Hedgcock 

5 D1 : Juan Van Rooyen 

national silver 

1 E117 : Kirsten Landman 

2 328 : Sonwabile Eddie Mdodana 

3 880 : Matthew Van Niekerk 

4 494 : Dirk Olivier 

5 782 : Francois Aucamp 

info@xstreme.co.za 60 DIRT & TRAIL MAGAZINE JUNE 2016 

- www.xstreme.co.za

MX 

RACING 

Written by Mark Sangster. 

Photos by Brodalka Photography. 

PICS BY ZYGMUND BRODOLKA 

Anthony Raynard 

H I G H F L Y I N G I N 

THE FREESTATE 

Fitz-Gerald takes control of SA National MX Champs in Bloemfontein. 

Bloemfontein, Saturday 28 May – During a 

very consistent race day, Kerim Fitz-Gerald 

enjoyed great starts and amazing finishes to 

take both the MX1 and MX2 divisions in fine 

style. It was a perfect day for competing, 

with the morning coolness soon offset by 

the nice afternoon warmth, and the great 

BORC track that was tacky all day, despite 

the dryness. Fitz-Gerald had obviously been 

training hard, and was determined to regain 

his form at this event. His hard work and 

competitive edge came through as he put in 

an excellent day’s work on the track. 

In the second MX2 heat it was quite the 

tussle between Kerim, Anthony Raynard 

and Tristan Purdon. It was hometown rider 

Johan Vogelesang who got the holeshot, and 

started off the heat in the lead for the first 

few laps, which was a great moment for the 

local rider. Ant then snuck into the lead and 

managed to stay ahead for a few laps before 

Tristan came out of nowhere to take the 

lead from him. He managed to hold the lead 

for the rest of the race, and looked like he 

was heading for victory before Kerim snuck 

past him on the outside on one of the last 

corners for an exciting win. 

“I wasn’t feeling so good at practice, and the 

track felt a bit thick, so I was a bit surprised 

at getting pole position, but I really wanted 

to be there, you know, I was excited to be 

in Bloem,” said Fitz-Gerald. “I got good 

starts in my MX1 races, and Ant and I were 

yoyo-ing back and forth up front, but I 

managed to get through a little bit quicker 

than him. In the MX2 races I also got two 

really good starts and controlled the races 

from the offset. I was really happy with my 

performance on the day.” 

The MX1 division saw Fitz-Gerald 

dominating from the start, along with 

Anthony Raynard, but Kerim proved his 

superiority and form to keep Ant at bay 

throughout, putting down two division wins 

for the day. 


PAGES BROUGHT TO YOU BY: 

Neville Bradshaw MX 1 

Raynard posted pocket 3rd places in both 

the MX1 and MX2 divisions, which saw him 

retain the lead in MX2, and sneak ahead of 

Neville Bradshaw in MX1, to place him as 

points leader in both MX1 and MX2 going 

into the next event. 

Ian Topliss was back to his comfortable spot 

up front of the MX3 divisions, where he took 

both heats with comfortable leads. Ryan 

Hunt was in the chase throughout, as was 

Brett Bircher, but Topliss managed to stave 

them off for the win. 

In the MX Ladies division it was once again 

all about Brittany Cuthbert, who stayed out 

front all day pretty much. Nanda Clows and 

Toni Jardine chased her hard, but neither of 

them was quick enough to get into the lead. 

In the 125 High School Division Marco De 

Vrye was looking like a winner, and held 

onto the lead for most of the 2nd heat with 

ease. Slade Smith however managed to 

close the gap with some smooth riding and 

shot into the lead while De Vrye ran out of 

steam and fell back a few places to take 

third behind Smith and Keegan Hickson- 

Mahony in second. 

A massive turnout and some great racing 

made for a very special day and a great 

welcome back into the SA Nationals for 

Richie van der 

Westhuizen MX 1 

Bloemfontein. The BORC track impressed 

all, and was well maintained throughout 

the day. 

The next event in the Monster Energy TRP 

Distributors SA National MX Champs is set 

to take place at Syringa, Muldersdrift SA 

on 2 July. 

Johan Vogelesang 

MX 2 

Neil van der 

Vyver 50cc Pro 

Camdon M cllelan 

FINAL RESULTS: 

MX1 

1. Kerim Fitz-Gerald 

2. Sacha Naude 

3. Anthony Raynard 

MX2 

1. Kerim Fitz-Gerald 

2. Tristan Purdon 

3. Anthony Raynard 

MX3 

1. Ian Topliss 

2. Ryan Hunt 

3. Brett Bircher 

HIGH SCHOOL 

1. Slade Smith 

2. Keegan Hickson- 

Mahony 

3. Marco De Vrye 

LADIES 

1. Brittany Cuthbert 

2. Toni Jardine 

3. Nanda Clowes 

Kerim Fitz-Gerld MX 2 

SENIOR SUPPORT 

1. Bevan Christie 

2. Jay van der Walt 

3. Mason Buist 

85CC JUNIORS 

1. Jonathan Mimi 

2. Ike Klaasen 

3. Hayden Tully 

PRO MINI 

1. Cameron Durow 

2. Camden Mc 

Lellan 

3. Dalton Venter 

50CC 

1. Neil van der Vyver 

2. Jordan Van Wyk 

3. Kyle Townsend 

65CC 

1. Hayden Tully 

2. Daiyaan Manuel 

3. Blake Young 

DIRT & TRAIL MAGAZINE JULY 2016 6 3

3oo’s 

two gre 

ADVENTURE 

64 DIRT & TRAIL MAGAZINE JUNE 2016

at 

Let’s face it. Most of the time when you see a Sherco, its busy battling 

its way up some gnarly slope or a rocky gully, usually in the hands of an 

extreme rider like Wade Young , or it’s flying through the air in the hands 

of young Kyle Flanagan. We thought we’d borrow them and take them 

for an everyday outride like most of us mere mortals enjoy. 

The bikes: 

Toyscom had two of these sexy blue numbers available for us to put 

through their paces, the very Svelte 2016 6-day 300 two stroke, and a 

very clean 2015 300 four stroke SEF-R. We’d ridden both before but we 

thought it might be a nice plan to compare 2 to 4-stroke - and of course, 

the excuse to swing our legs over one of the most exotic brands on the 

planet did not do any harm to the plan. 

The six day is equipped trick Brembo brakes. It comes with a 

performance FMF full system and a special gripper seat. Naturally it also 

boasts a trick decal set. 

We were hosting a ride, so we used the bikes to go out and check the 

markers, make sure that everything was rideable and - generally have a 

good time. The route incorporated everything, from fast flowing trails to 

deep muddy rivers - and there was even a short rock hoppers section 

chucked in for the Roof Of Africa type riders. Bottom line - we rode 

the wheels off both of these bikes and were able to test them in every 

concievable condition. 

DIRT & TRAIL MAGAZINE JUNE 2016 65

Marking trails is a trying task on a big 

cc bike. Just when you get going, you 

have to stop to put up a marker - so the 

constant start, stop puts a bit of pressure 

on the bikes in terms of heat and starting. 

Despite the fact that neither bike has a 

kick-starter, both Sherco’s were flawless, 

the batteries never ran down, and we 

did not experience any overheating. The 

four-strokes fan quietly kicked on and off 

for the duration. We never had the two 

strokes fan kick in. 

Ditto on the rocks. The inclusion of 

a cooling fan for more extreme stuff is 

a non- negotiable. Sherco has done a 

good job on both bikes, without stealing 

too much power from the battery. 

HOWEVER... we would still prefer a 

kickstart included for just in case... 

What is the difference riding the bikes? 

Well – the two stroke is significantly 

quicker off the line, through the gears and 

up to the top. It’s a wildly exciting bike to 

ride, nimble and sharp as a razor. They 

feel a bit lighter than the four stroke - and 

this is all immediately noticeable when 

you get going. We specifically aimed this 

bike at the gnarliest rocks that we could 

find, ground clearance is excellent and 

the bottom end torque for rock hopping 

is exactly what the doc ordered. 

The 300 four stroke is also very nimble 

and easy to manouver - but it is infinitely 

more controllable, which will appeal to 

many riders out there. It’s just that little 

bit more torquey than a 250 four stroke, 

which makes it really good whether you 

want to go fast or trundle along slowly. 

The bike feels slightly heavier in the 

rocks, but the nice grunt makes it very 

easy to tackle step-ups and so-on. 

Things that the bikes share: 

One of the best features on both of 

these bikes is that fact that they are not 

Do you know what it 

really takes? 

Bite the Bullet 

Train to ride 

Train to win! 

Train to Win 

FOURWAYS & HILLCREST: mandy@baset.co.za 

Mandy Thomas: 082 461 1443 

CENTURION: centurion@baset.co.za 

Lodewyk JV Vuuren: 072 343 2465 

66 DIRT & TRAIL MAGAZINE JUNE 2016 

Twitter: @base_t 

www.baset.co.za

Train to win 

2016 

M1SERIES 

andrew 082 775 7408 sales@scarracing.bike www.scarracing.bike

overly tall. For some inexplicable reason, many of the 

manufacturers have opted to go with stand on your 

toe height enduro machines - and just about every 

time we fall over its coz we can’t get our feet onto 

the ground. The height is often attributed to ground 

clearance - but to be fair, we never really klapped the 

skid plates on the rocks. 

Both bikes are equipped with WP suspension, front 

and rear and whether you go flat out or creep along, 

we loved the handling. They also soak up the big hits 

on landing with absolute ease. 

The 300 four-stroke was fitted with Super Moose 

Mousses. It’s quite interesting to note how far 

mousses have come along. A few years back, you 

could feel the hardness when compared to a tube. The 

compounds they use now are pretty soft and if you did 

not know, you’d swear that you were on a tube tyre. 

Both bikes were fitted with soft Mitas Tyres. Even 

though they were pretty well used, the traction that these 

tyres gave was suberb in the faster and slower stuff. 

Both bikes are well thought-out in terms of 

ergonomics. The seats are relatively comfortable, the 

pegs are wide and the handlebars and levers are all 

positioned perfectly. 

We tackled every river crossing that we could find - 

and even though we managed to drop the 4T into one 

of the rivers, she took in no water and fired up straight 

away - testimony to the good air filter design. 

So in conclusion: 

These bikes are simply brilliant. We are not going to beat 

around the bush, they are also a bit more expensive than 

some of the other brands out there - largely thanks to 

the value of our rand. But if you have the means and are 

looking for something a bit unique, then go and check 

them out. The one thing that was mentioned amongst 

all of the riders who took the bikes for spin, was the fact 

that they are so easy to ride. With this brands focus on 

racing in recent years, they have created some awesome 

fun machines that everyone can enjoy. 

200 odd kilometres in the saddle proved that they are 

well designed, quality motorcycles. 

Get down to Toyscom and have a looksee for yourself. 


EXTREME ENDURO 

ERZBERG 

R O D E O 2 0 1 6 

GRAHAM JARVIS WINS THE 2016 RED BULL HARE 

SCRAMBLE. ONLY 9 FINISHERS THIS YEAR... 


Husqvarna rider beats Cody 

Webb and Alfredo Gómez to 

victory in another Mad Ass event. 

Last year, for the first time 

in its history the Red Bull Hare 

Scramble saw more than one 

winner. Graham Jarvis, Jonny 

Walker, Alfredo Gómez and 

Andreas Lettenbichler teamed 

up to clear the treacherous 

Downtown section of the course 

last year before making the 

unanimous decision to cross the 

finish line together. 

It was the feel good story of 

the 2015 Hard Enduro season, as 

the riders put aside their rivalries 

to join forces to defeat the Iron 

Giant. But that was then and 

this and now, and every biker 

heading to Austria with even an 

ounce of ambition wanted to 

stand alone on the top step of 

the podium this time around. And 

Jarvis made sure with his most 

emphatic win to boot, with a 

victory by more than 30 minutes 

at the 2016 Erzbergrodeo. 

The Husqvarna rider blasted 

his way from a second-row start 

to make up ground on all those 

in front of him, and by the time 

he took the chequered flag there 

wasn’t a soul in sight of the Brit. 

Jarvis rode a masterful race 

to complete the course – which 

measures just over 30km in 

length – in just shy of 2h20m, 

barely putting a wheel wrong on 

his way to the win. 

“It’s fantastic! I can’t believe 

DIRT & TRAIL MAGAZINE JUNE 2016 7 1

it. I got a fairly good start and got 

through the pack. I kept my head 

together and stayed relaxed. It’s 

been a team effort. 

American rider Cody Webb caught 

Alfredo Gómez at Lazy Noon, the 

penultimate checkpoint of the 25 

stages the riders had to negotiate 

on a gruelling course, as the pair 

struggled to overcome a particularly 

difficult climb. 

Each rider had to make multiple 

attempts to conquer the steep rise, 

and it was Webb who managed to 

do so first. Gómez, under intense 

pressure and seeing his hopes of 

making the podium hang in the 

balance with the chasing riders 

breathing down his neck, dug deep 

and reached the summit. He brought 

his KTM home in third to round out 

the rostrum. 

With a four hour time limit on the 

race, there was still plenty of drama 

to be had as a handful of riders gave 

everything they had to make it to the 

chequered flag. 

Spaniard Mario Roman swept 

through to take fourth place, 

while British youngster Billy Bolt 

capitalised on the fact that Lazy 

Noon proved a stumbling block for 

others to rocket up the climb and 

secure fifth. The 18-year-old was 

something of a revelation at this 

year’s event. 

SA’s wunderkind Wade Young and 

UK’s Paul Bolton both got the better 

of five-time winner Taddy Blazusiak, 

who had a broken brake lever and 

damaged clutch to content with, but 

who still managed to finish within the 

allotted time. 

Philipp Scholz was the ninth and 

final finisher, as the Iron Giant again 

showed its unforgiving insanity. 

Red Bull Hare Scramble 2016 

finishers 

1. Graham Jarvis (GBR) 2h18m47s 

2. Cody Webb (USA) +33m07s 

3. Alfredo Gómez (ESP) +36m02s 

4. Mario Roman (ESP) +58m19s 

5. Billy Bolt (GBR) +1h08m46s 

6. Wade Young (RSA) +1h12m28s 

7. Paul Bolton (GBR) +1h19m35s 

8. Taddy Blazusiak (POL) 

+1h23m08s 

9. Philipp Scholz (DEU) +1h37m24s 


www.husqvarna-motorcycles.com 

BUILT TO GO 

PROGRESSION AS IS INEVITABLE 

FAR AS YOU 

DARE TO TAKE 

At the forefront of motocross progression, is the 2017 Husqvarna motocross 

range. It features the all-new TC 250 2-stroke alongside the innovative 

FC 4-stroke models, with their cutting-edge electronics that tame the most 

powerful engines on the market. Smooth and controllable, yet deceptively 

THE 2016 2-STROKE ENDURO MODEL RANGE. 

fast – innovative functional design combines with the new WP AER48 fork 

to give riders the confidence needed to break new ground in their The joy of the ride is often in finding routes that nobody else has used – reaching 

destinations that few others would dare to aim for. The 2016 Husqvarna Motorcycles 

never-ending quest for success. 

2-stroke enduro bikes rely on exceptional agility, a broad powerband and light 

weight – letting you easily explore wherever you choose to go. 

Please make no attempt to imitate the illustrated riding scenes, always wear protective clothing and observe the applicable provisions of the road traffic regulations! 

The illustrated vehicles may vary in selected details from the production models and some illustrations feature optional equipment available at additional cost. 

Photo: H. Mitterbauer 

FREESTATE - Husqvarna Central, Bloemfontein – (051) 430 1237 

MPUMALANGA - Vans Husqvarna, Middleburg – (013) 282 0766

ADVENTURE 


ENDURO 

WEAPON 

O N E T r i c k Y Z 2 5 0 X 

With the glut of 2017 models on their 

way, there is very little in the 2016 

ranges that have not been tested or 

featured in this here quality publication. 

One of our mates, Wayne Philips 

bought a 2016 YZ250X (Two Stroke) and 

threw some money at it… 

Three or four months ago we did an 

extensive test on this new model from the 

Yamaha stable – and we’ll quote from the 

story that we ran there – “One of the most 

unassuming bikes on the market”. After 

riding Waynes one, we’ll stand by what 

we said, this relative newcomer is a peach 

of a bike. 

Wayne is related to the BCR Arrow 

racing team, headed up by some 

experienced names like Mark Garland and 

Brian Capper. Garland was one of the first 

in the country to race the new YZ and he 

has spent quite a bit of time making the 

bike better suited to enduro. 

Wayne is forty-something and trying to 

keep up with his racing teenage son, so 

he was looking for a bike that is easy to 

ride – and in our opinion, he got it right! 

This YZ has gone under the knife. One 

of the things we mentioned in the first 

story we ran was the fact that it was prone 

to stalling, often at precisely the wrong 


time in the gnarly stuff. To overcome this, 

a weighted flywheel has been fitted. The 

flywheel is heavier than standard and 

gives the crank a bit more inertia, which 

in turn helps prevent stalling and gives 

the bike a bit more bottom end chugalug. 

In the gearbox, they have changed the 

long-ish 1st and second gear cogs to 

make it rev out quicker – shorter gearing. 

This allows the bike to make a bit more 

power lower down, which is exactly what 

you are after when riding rox. 

He also took the liberty of fitting a 

Rekluse clutch – we have featured several 

of these in the past, but just a re-cap – and 

a very short version. The Rekluse replaces 

your standard clutch allowing you to either 

use the clutch in the traditional form – OR 

to ride your bike like a semi auto. In other 

words: You can stop without pulling in 

the clutch and the bike does not stall, it 

carries on purring away. Ditto on pulling 

off, no clutch, just open the throttle. Some 

people like it, others are not convinced. 

Our opinion does not really matter – but 

we have to say that it does make rock 

hopping a bit easier – even though the 

purists prefer a standard clutch setup. 

Other than that, Wayne has fitted Moose 

mousses, Metzeler 6-day extreme, soft 

tyres… and that’s it for the performance 

part really. Protective gear is courtesy of 

the famous Hyde bunch – a carbon pipe 

cover, plastic skidplate and brush guards. 

It was a sunny Highveld day when 

we fired her up and headed out into the 

bush on a glorious Friday. What a way to 

spend it! 

Our day out at Tussen Koppies in 

the south (or Souf) of JHB provided a 

fantastic blend of flowing and technical 

rocky stuff to put any bike through 


its paces. For scientific, comparative 

purposes, we dragged along the 

YZ250FX four-stroke to join the fun. 

Riding the two stroke, you are 

immediately aware of the bikes inherent 

lightness and the fact that it is shorter 

than its four-stroke cousin. And you 

can immediately feel the motocross 

genes, the bike feels light, compact and 

taught. It’s also deceptively quick, a 

few impromptu drag races against the 

newer technology four stroke FX proved 

it quicker through the gears and up at 

the top. Not by miles, but the 2-smokes 

quickness is significant. Top of the pile 

has to be the fun factor when you ride a 

bike like this. 

You don’t have to look too hard to 

find the rocks and pretty soon, we 

were heading up some great little rock 

gardens… 

Two things work in the two strokes 

favour over the four – it feels lighter, and 

it is easier to get your feet down. Once 

again it explains why two-strokes are still 

a firm favourite for technical trails. 

The Rekluse took a bit of getting used 

to – we literally crept up the rocks, rather 

than blasting them, to appreciate the 

improvements over the standard bike. 

Did it stall? Not at all and it felt really 

nimble and the Rekluse did the job. The 

moment that you should stall, you touch 

the throttle and it kicks in and pulls you 

along. Quite a weird feeling if you are not 

accustomed to the system. 

The shorter gearing makes a huge 

difference in technical terrain – we barely 

got out of third gear where we were riding. 

All in – money well spent on a great 

bike. It all just makes life that much 

easier. All that’s missing now is that 

happy button. 

This bike was built by the race team, 

but most of the Yammie dealers out there 

know all the secrets. In our opinion, the 

bike is great in standard trim, but if you 

have the loot and are looking for a more 

technical rock hopper then consider 

these modifications… 


FACTORY FITTED 

Design 

MOTORCROSS ENDURO ADVENTURE 

MX3s MX52 MX71 AT81 D606 D908RR 

To find your nearest Dunlop dealer contact: 

· Henderson Racing Products - 011 708 5905 

I RIDE 

FOR THE ULTIMATE GRIP

1607 DT final

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?