OCTOBER 2020
YAMAHA'S
YZ250 FX AND YZ125X
20010
October 2020 RSA R35.00
9 771815 337001
YAMAHA T7
PUT THROUGH ITS PACES
TO SABIE AND BACK
IN THIS ISSUE
HONDA'S
CRF1100 TO CLARENS
KTM 390
DIRT CONVERT
Mizz B Tells us More.
GAS GAS NEWS - TRIALS MEETS ENDURO - BASEFIT - BIGBOY TX125
NATIONAL OFFROAD - ENDURO - MX AND LOTS MORE...
Your chain. Any time.
Taddy Blazusiak
Photocredit: Marcin Kin
Phote: Future7Media
Enduro
The new ZSE chains are the result of an intense development process made
side by side with the best Enduro Racing Teams, with the aim to deliver the
while preserving durability. The result is the best light-running chain
available on the market today. The new narrow Z-Ring, together with high
Enduro bike range. These features, added to light weight and narrow width,
make ZSE the best choice in terms of performance for Enduro competitions.
DEALER LIST
www.go-mx.co.za
Specialists in motocross gear and accessories
173 Blaauwberg Road, Table View info@go-mx.co.za
079 270 8958
@go_mx @GO.MX.CT
CAPE PROVINCE
CRAIGS MOTORCYCLE FITMENT 021 939 8916
NEVES MOTORCYCLE WORLD 021 930 5917
TRAC MAC BELLVILLE 021 945 3725
TRAC MAC PAARDEN EILAND 021 510 2258
TRAC MAC WYNBURG 021 761 4220
WICKED CYCLES 021 510 2968
LIMPOPO
KR MOTORCYCLES 015 297 3291
MPUMALANGA
BIKE CITY 013 244 2143
GAUTENG
BIKERS WAREHOUSE 011 795 4122
BIKING ACCESSORIES 012 342 7474
FAST KTM 011 867 0092
GAME SERVICES 011 425 1081
MOTO MATE EDENVALE 011 027 0545
MOTO MATE RIVONIA 011 234 5275
PRIMROSE MOTORCYCLES 011 828 9091
RANDBURG MOTOCYCLES 011 792 6829
SILVERTON MIDAS 012 804 8888
ZEEMANS MOTORCYCLES 011 435 7177
FREE STATE
SALLEYS YAMAHA 051 430 3326
KZN
PERRY MOTORCYCLES CC 031 566 7411
RBS YAMAHA 031 701 1311
RIDE HIGH WITH YAMAHA 035 789 1581
ROCKET RACING PMB 033 264 3240
ROCKET RACING PINETOWN 031 702 2606
UMPLEBY SUZUKI 031 303 8323
NORTHWEST
BIKERS PARADISE 018 297 4700
MOTOS KLERKSDORP 018 468 1800
WATERITE MOTORCYCLES 018 771 5050
Intro. Keeping the wheels turning...
October Issue 2020
Eds col DT:
Busy month and we’ve managed to pack
the mag with some pretty good stuff.
Interesting conversation with someone
the other day on an adventure weekend.
“Hey Glen - I get the magazine and I love
it - but there is something I don’t understand.
Why are there no accessory retailers
advertising in the magazine?
A bike mag is every motorcyclists first port of
call for information - and yet...”
True story - have a look - most of our
advertisers are importers and distributors.
Bike shops - C’mon. That comment was not
from us - it was from your paying customer.
Support the local magazines, not just us,
all of them - and in turn - we will do our
damndest to promote you guys.
This is a time when we all need to work
together for the common good of the
motorcycle industry.
Customers want to know where they can get
stuff - this is your direct target audience.
Anyway...
Have a great riding month. Comments,
suggestions - foleyg@mweb.co.za
If you cannot find the magazine - please
drop the distributors a mail:
OTDAssistance@media24.com
and let us know too.
Pic of the month:
PUBLISHER:
Glenn Foley
foleyg@mweb.co.za
ADVERTISING AND EDITORIAL:
Sean Hendley
bestbikemagazines
@yahoo.com
071 684 4546
OFFICE &
SUBSCRIPTIONS:
Anette
anette.acc@ mweb.co.za
011 979 5035
ONLINE &
DESIGN LAYOUT:
Kyle Lawrenson
kyle.lawrenson@icloud.com
011 979 5035
Piston Piston and and Gasket Gasket Piston Setsand SetsGasket Sets
PHOTOGRAPHY
Stefan van der Riet
CONTRIBUTORS
Shado Alston
Donovan Fourie
Michelle Leppan
Mieke Oelofse
Kurt Beine
Cranks, Cranks, Conrods Conrods Cranks, and and Camshafts Conrods and Camshafts
Mike Wessels
Mizz B
Kyle De Bruin
Videos and more
available online...
Cylinder Cylinder Kits, Kits, Rebores, Cylinder Rebores, Main Kits, Main Bearings Rebores, Bearings and Main and Clutch Bearings Clutch Plates and Plates Clutch Plates
WWW.MOTOMEDIA.CO.ZA
Email:G124@mweb.co.za
Email:G124@mweb.co.za
no 4 no Fifth 4 Fifth avenue avenue no 4 Fifth avenue
Northmead
Northmead
Benoni Benoni Benoni
011 011 425 425 1081/4 1081/4 011 425 1081/4
Copyright © RideFast Magazine: All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed,
or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, articles, or other methods, without the prior
written permission of the publisher.
VALVES,STEM SEALS VALVES,STEM SEALS AND AND SPRINGS SEALS SPRINGS AND SPRINGS
Tork Craft Polishers and Sanders from Vermont Sales
So, you’re building a custom bike or restoring
a classic or just fixing up some blemishes or
damage and you have rubbed the skin off your
fingers trying to remove old paint or ‘flat’ a surface
for repaint or polish back that shine into dull and
faded paintwork. Well here is how you can save
time and the skin on your fingers.
Tork Craft offers a great range of affordable, yet
high quality, electric combination polishers and
sanders with various power outputs and backing
pad sizes. The entry level model, the POL05,
comes with a powerful 1200W brushed electric
motor, a large 180mm backing pad and polishing
bonnet. This is followed by the smaller, but
equally capable, random orbital POL04, which
has an 800W motor and 150mm backing pad.
The most powerful in the range is the POL06,
which is powered by a huge 1500W motor,
coupled with a 180mm backing pad. Last, but not
least, is the most popular POL02 model with a
180mm backing pad, a wool bonnet and a 1200W
motor.
The Tork Craft Polisher/Sander range offers the
industry a comprehensive range of power output
options and backing pad sizes. All the units offer
a no-load speed specification with the RPM
changing, depending on the model, plus, units
such as the POL02, 05 and 06 have a variable
speed selector and variable speed feature. All the
units are corded, electric, power tools intended
to be used in finishing processes. Accessories
such as sanding pads, polishing buffs, compound
sponges and polishing compounds produce
excellent finishes, yielding a dramatic difference
on all surfaces, and are all available from Tork
Craft.
They are used to achieve different results and
surface finishes on a variety of materials such as
wood, fibreglass, and painted metals, however
the possibilities do not end there.
The objective of using these units is to remove
imperfections including swirls, scratches,
water spots, etchings, oxidation, and other
contamination on a surface that may lead the
finish to look dull. The features and functionality
of the models are similar. They are professionally
manufactured to cater for the demands of the
automotive paint care and detailing industries,
with sanding being an additional feature. They
are ergonomically designed to reduce user
fatigue over long periods of use. They offer
various positions to hold the tool as well as
bolt-on handles which make it safer and more
comfortable to hold the polisher/sander at various
angles.
Tork Craft have a full comprehensive range
of polishing and sanding accessories. To
view them go to www.torkcraft.com or to view
additional products and accessories go to www.
vermontsales.co.za
Tork Craft is a leading brand of tools and
accessories provided by Vermont Sales. All their
products are available from leading specialist
stores countrywide. For more information talk
to your nearest retail outlet or contact Vermont
Sales on 011 314 7711. Alternatively visit their
web site www.vermontsales.co.za, or go direct to
www.torkcraft.co.za
Trade enquiries welcome
CONQUER THE
BIGGEST
ADVENTURES
-Torque your way out of any situation with the most powerful offroad adventure bike
on the market. The KTM 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE R is where Dakar-winning DNA
meets the ultimate in power and technology, delivering a limit-crushing ride that
enables you to charge off further than ever before.
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. Photo: F. Lackner
Mike Hopkins Motorcycles
moves to new premises.
Mike Hopkins Motorcycles’ new premises takes
every aspect of the art of the motorcycle to an
obsessive level of care. From the shop’s visage;
a modern almost-museum to motorcycles, to
their dedicated classic bike restoration workshop
(showcased on the shop’s floor), Mike Hopkins
Motorcycles exists as a sort of temple: a shrine
to any and everything motorcycle.
Their new shop is an accumulation of a 15-year
long dream to create the ultimate motorcycle
destination. With Mike Hopkins Motorcycles’
new look, feel, and service they hope to enhance
the experience of buying a motorcycle. From a
young person buying their first small scooter,
to the experienced mature biker splurging on a
superbike, they treat each and every customer
as a friend, and want them to feel equally at
home. Their workshop is willing and able to
work on most major brands of motorcycle, and
do treat each job with the utmost care and
precision. Additionally, Mike Hopkins Motorcycles
has a dedicated accessories floor, selling
everything from helmets, to drones, to a simple
pair of protective gloves.
And, as if this wasn’t reason enough to swing
by … Mike Hopkins Motorcycle’s new premises
also boasts the new Route Cafe Coffee Shop,
themed to celebrate all the fantastic South
African sites and motorcycle routes – and they
ask that you please do send in your own photos
of your personal favorite rides, which Routes will
proudly display on their wall.
It really is a great place to get your motorcycle
fix with all of these great new features, get down
to Baruch Park, Viro Crescent, Stikland 7530, or
give them a call on Tel: 021 910 0535
Honda Wing Tygerberg moves
The very well-known and extremely active Honda
Wing have moved to nicer premises, they are still
on Durban rd, Bellville just a little bit further along
at the junction with High street, Rosen Park with a
professional full workshop, parts department and
a well-stocked sales floor.
It is still the same friendly team with Johan at the
helm and as always the same great service !
Visit them at No.3 High st, Rosen Park or give
them a call on 021-910 8300.
Wade Young pops
into SpeedHut Sherco
You would have read in this magazine a month
or two ago that ASAP Racing is now under new
ownership and management and has been
rebranded as Speedhut, but still retain the Sherco
agency.
Recently they had a bit of a gala event to mark
the opening of the new shop. Sherco took the
opportunity to introduce the market to their new
2021 machines and brought along Wade Young,
who also got to see the new machines for the
first time. He was naturally quite curios, because
he was only days away from flying off to the
International racing scene with Sea 2 Sky his
first race back since the pandemic wobbles hit,
(see the round up of that race a bit later on in this
issue).
Sherco & Motul have teamed up for 2021 and all
the Sherco’s now run on Motul products as OE,
so the good people from Motul SA also came
along and showed us some of their new branding,
container designs and new products.
Motul Rebrands their Powersport Range
The famous Motul Brand has unveiled the
new look and feel of the containers for their
Powersport range. The redesign is intended
to communicate the benefits of each premium
product even more clearly, so that customers and
end-users can choose the right product for their
needs and have complete confidence that it will
perform as required.
It’s all part part of Motul’s ongoing commitment to
#EmpowerYourRide.
“Our customers have always known they can
have complete confidence in the formulation of
every Motul product,” commented Mercia Jansen,
Motul Area Manager for Southern and Eastern
Africa. “Now that our redesigned Powersport
range packaging has arrived, they can also enjoy
the peace of mind that comes with choosing the
very best Motul product to meet their needs,” she
added.
The new skin designs convey a great deal of
information about the application, performance
and customer benefits of each product by using
clear, streamlined graphic elements.
Each of the four classes of product (Mineral, HC-
Tech®, Technosynthese® and 100% Synthetic)
have their own assigned colour, making product
selection simpler than ever. These colours
(blue for Mineral, yellow for HC-Tech®, green
for Technosynthese® and orange for 100%
Synthetic) are shown in bars that indicate the
product performance, from Standard to Maximum.
Selecting the correct product is made even easier
by the additional information on each container.
Product use benefits are indicated by immediately
recognisable icons, with up to four displayed on
each product as part of a contrast colour strip
along the bottom of the label. The essential
information is completed by the volume of the
product. Bold, stylised photographic elements
speak to the application of each product. These
illustrate the breadth of the Motul Powersport
range and reinforce how it contributes to optimum
performance.
The revamped Motul Powersport product range
includes, among many other products:
• Motul Powersport ATV/SxS Power 4T which
offers high-temperature resistance and stability,
engine protection and low oil consumption to
users of ATV/UTV/SSV vehicles;
•Powerjet 4T which is engineered to deliver
overall efficiency at high engine speeds and
protection from corrosion for jet watercrafts;
•Powersport 7100 4T which helps off and on
road motorcyclists enjoy maximum torque output,
engine and gearbox protection with fuel economy;
•Scooter Expert 4T which enhances urban riding
thanks to improved high torque at low engine
speeds, engine protection and stop-and-go
performance; and
•Motul Powersport 710 2T Pre-Mix/Oil Injection
has been specially developed for the latest
generation of two-stroke engines and is suitable
for pre-mix or oil injector systems and catalytic
converters.
Motul has also taken this opportunity to
incorporate bold QR-codes into the new designs.
When scanned with a smartphone, these allow
customers to take a digital dive into Motul’s
online ecosystem, where a world of information,
promotions and engaging and relevant content
awaits. Ain’t technology cool!
For a full list of Motul Powersport products
go to https://www.motul.com/za/en and track
#EmpowerYourRide on social media to find out
more about the product applications and benefits.
At motorcycle dealers nationwide…
Rider Brett Swanepoel
A Quick few seconds in the solution
cleaned half of the filter as it it was new
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 optionalequipment available at additional cost.
Photo By: www. ZCMC.co.za
Red Hot Products – Air Filter Cleaner
We get to use a lot of air filter cleaners in our job
and mostly they all do what is says on the label.
However, every so often a product comes along
that really impresses us and RHP’s Air Filter
Cleaner is one such product.
At best, cleaning your sponge air filter on a dirt
bike or ATV is a lousy job and you usually end up
having to use petrol or paraffin to get all the oil,
dirt and grease off properly, but then you have to
wash that out with a decent detergent before it
destroys your sponge filter …we’re talking from
vast experience on the subject … and then you
have to rinse the detergent out with clean water
… and it all just becomes such a pain in the butt.
So, last month we were introduced to cool range
of products … straight out of Benoni … just like
Charlize. Strangely enough we didn’t really know
about them, but they have been around for many
years we are told, particularly well supported in
mountain bicycle circles.
In their range of products they have an air filter
cleaning product that really takes the hassle out
of cleaning your air filter. Simply put a little bit in
a container drop your filter in for a few seconds
take it out and rinse it under the tap and you’re
done, let it dry properly, stick on your favourite
filter oil, grease the contact edge and fit back into
the air box. What we really liked as well was the
fact that it was not overly pungent and was gentle
on our soft little hands.
We here that they are busy developing their
own foam filter oil and had some people test
it already, but even though it is very good they
are not entirely happy with the product yet and
won’t release it to the market until they are 100%
satisfied it meets their exacting standards.
To find out more or find your closest stockist click
on www.redhotproducts.co.za or give Maxine
a call on 082 731 0650 or drop them an email
on info@redhotproducts.co.za , dealer/trade
enquiries are welcomed.
Go on! Support them, these are bike mad South
Africans developing products to suit our local
riding conditions here in SA and doing it at pricing
that makes sense to us.
UNMATCHED
PERFORMANCE
Simply put, the TE 300i is the perfect machine to explore new ground and go where few have gone
before. The trusted 2-stroke is exceedingly simple to manage and features a host of developments
which enhance its class-leading performance. With electronic fuel injection, smooth power delivery
and impressive torque and power, the TE 300i retains the traits it’s become renowned for. However,
with the class leading chassis and ergonomics, it offers an even more controllable and thrilling ride.
GIVI GRT719 HYDRATION RUCKSACK
So, you thought GIVI only made top boxes and
panniers, well if you click on www.dmd.co.za
you will find a range of very interesting products
including the GRT719 Hydration Ruck Sack.
With a 3-litre capacity, this rucksack has a main
pocket to hold the 2-litre HydraPak Givi Elite
and a drinking tube on the shoulder strap, with a
locking system to keep it in place. It also has a
secondary pocket, a breathable back panel and a
quick-release shoulder strap—to make removing
the rucksack easy—in addition to a stabilised
handle, a chest strap with whistle and reflective
inserts to guarantee increased visibility.
But that’s not all! To meet the needs of every
rider, GIVI has also created the Hydrapak
Elite T523 water bag, available separately and
compatible with most hydration packs, so that
it can be used with any rucksack with a 95-cm
drinking tube.
The Hydrapak Elite T523 water bag opens and
closes with a SLIDE SEAL TOP, making it easy to
fill and creating a watertight seal. The BLASTER
valve prevents leaking and has a PLUG-N-PLAY
connection system to easily detach the tube
when the bag is full.
It withstands temperatures from -25 to 60
degrees and is completely reversible, for easy
cleaning.
When it comes to Givi, comfort and convenience
for the rider is always our top priority!
Thanks to the perfect adherence to the rider's
body and the 2-litre HydraPak Elite bag, it is
particularly suitable for off-road use.
Materials (manufactured within REACH
recommendations):
• High-tenacity 1200D W/R polyester
• Hypalon inserts
• High UV-resistant external material
As standard:
• Main pocket with HydraPak Givi Elite 2L water
bag included;
• Locking system to keep drinking tube on
shoulder strap;
• Secondary pocket;
• Stabilised handle;
• Breathable back panel;
• Chest strap with whistle;
• Quick-release shoulder straps make it easy to
remove the rucksack from the shoulders;
• Reflective inserts.
www.dmd.co.za
Not just a “Plot Shop”
Nick’s Cycles …
From humble beginnings working out of his
garage in Witfield, Boksburg 23 odd years ago
and running around in a little 360cc 2stroke
vintage Mazda bakkie to one of the mainstays
of the Motorcycle Industry. Nick’s Cycles has
based there business on good ethics, quality
workmanship, fair pricing and excellent after
sales service.
About 10 years ago or so, they moved to the
plot just off Great North road in Benoni and have
been there ever since. But don’t think this was
some big mega bucks relocation. The current
shop used to be a run-down chicken shed
with mud floors and no electricity. Nick and his
crew literally had to build and improve as they
managed to get money in, and are still improving
as the money comes in. Nick tells us there are
plans afoot to put up a fancy big roof and extend
the workshop to be able to offer their customers
even better services.
Nick is old school and his shop is old school,
no impersonal ‘Hollywood palace’ with white
tiled floors, acres of glass and the boss sitting in
an ivory tower somewhere. Here you can chat
directly to Nick who is mostly in the workshop,
but is hand on with everything in the shop or
just take a walk around and find what you are
looking for. The shop is cozy with a friendly
down to earth vibe and if you happen to be
there at ‘beer o’clock’ then you are more than
welcome to park off and shoot the breeze.
The shop is well stocked on most everything you
need and if they don’t have it in stock they will
get it for you within a couple of days or refer to
somebody close by that might have what you
are looking for. Their workshop is capable and
willing to work on just about anything motorcycle
related, from puncture repairs, basic services
and the like to major engine rebuilds, accident
repairs and even custom jobs.
Give them a call on 011 395 2553 or drop
them a mail on info@nickscycles.co.za or even
WhatsApp them if you like on 082 756 1008.
Metalize launches 2021 Summer range
Metalize has launched their all new All
Weather 404 jacket. With many features
such as zipped venting on the front and rear
as well as zipped venting on the arms. They
have removable inners as well as water proof
seems. With lots of pockets.
They have also released a new range of
gloves. Ranging from Street to Adventure
type. They have hard knuckle protection
as well as venting between the fingers and
knuckle venting. They are also smart phone
compatable (Finger Touch).The gloves have
high cuffs which alowes the glove to go over
you jacket.
visit facebook.com/hendersonracingproducts
or call them on 011 708 5905 for your nearest
stockist.
X
THE
FACTOR
YAMAHA'S
YZ125X & YZ250FX
For most of us, 2020 has kinda been a non-event.
New bikes were released and introduced at the
beginning of the year – and thanks to lockdown,
nobody could actually ride them. So when
Linex Yamaha in Lynwood offered us their 2020
YZ250FX for a day or two we were happy to oblige.
To sweeten the pot they included their version of
the YZ125X and we spent a day in the saddle…
With the Trax and trail Funduro looming, we
decided to head out and check the loop on these
two. It is a bit of everything from fast sandy trails,
to twee spoor veld tracks, some lekker rocky bits
and tight twisty forested trails.
A lekker mixup of all sorts.
What might be interesting is that the Magazine
has both of these bikes in the garage – a 2019 FX
and the junior member rides the 125 – so we know
them pretty well and were keen to see what the
updates are.
Kyle is the lighter of our two riders so he was
initially designated the 125… He has a mixed
history with this bike having smashed the first one
we rode, ending up with a buggered elbow. Glenn
was, initially on the FX.
2020 updates: FX250. It’s basically a
whole new bike so pay attention.
The Yamaha YZ250F motocross bike has
always been one of those class leaders.
In 2015, Yamaha built the cross-country
model, the YZ250FX around the MX
model, and South African Yamaha fans
rejoiced because here was a bike that
could compete in any discipline. That bike
only underwent small changes over the
next few years – until now…
For 2020, Yamaha completely updated
the YZ250FX . It may not look like it, but
there are lots of updates throughout.
The gearbox on the YZ250FX is the
same six-speed unit that came on the
2015 to 2019 model. First and second
gears are slightly lower than the YZ250F,
third gear is the same ratio, and fourth
through sixth are increasingly taller than
the YZ250F.
In the previous configuration, the
YZ250FX was a little down on power
compared to the MX bike, so Yamaha
made several changes to bring it up to a
more powerful and competitive package.
The 2020 YZ250FX shares almost all the
same engine parts as the YZ250F and
now features the same rear-mounted
electric-start engine package. The main
performance parts such as the cylinder
head, camshafts, crankshaft, piston, and
exhaust are identical to the YZ250F.
ECU mapping. And here is a brief
explanation:
The YZ250FX now features the same
adjustability as the YZ250F with its
smartphone-based Power Tuner app. In
stock form, it offers two different base
maps with a two-position map switch
mounted on the handlebar.
With the light off, which is map 1, the
engine is more responsive and quicker
revving. With the light on, map 2, the
engine has a smoother response and is
slightly slower revving.
With the Power Tuner app, you can make
adjustments to both base maps on a 4x4
grid. Fuel adjustments are made with
steps of -7 to +7 with a range of one step,
which equals a 2-percent fuel change.
Ignition adjustments are from -9 to +4
with a range of one step, which equals a
one-degree change. The guys at Linex
Lynwood showed us the functionality –
pretty simple – and you can now adjust
the bike in real time on your cell phone.
To handle the additional power, Yamaha
updated the clutch to a larger diameter. It
now has a higher heat capacity and less
fade. The clutch plates on the YZ250FX
are off-road specific to help control clutch
engagement and have a lighter lever pull
than the YZ250F.As expected, the clutch
pull is nice and light.
2020 Yamaha YZ250FX Suspension
Like the YZ250F, the YZ250FX is spec’d
with a KYB Speed-Sensitive System
(SSS) coil-spring fork and KYB shock.
However, the off-road model is granted
its own cross-country-specific suspension
settings. Its internal valve shim stacks
are designed to provide compliance and
comfort on tighter trails. Additionally, it is
designed to provide better absorption of
sudden impacts.
Setup Note: In the soft sand and in the
quarry where we did the pics, the 250
felt fine, but when we got out into the
ocks, the setup was just too hard. We
discovered that the front tyre was over
inflated (Your tyre forms an integral part
of rider comfort). We let the wheel down a
bit and simply adjusted a few clicks on the
compression. Problem solved – that is the
beauty of modern suspension, it is almost
infinitely adjustable with a screwdriver.
Literally 5 minutes and the bike was a lot
more rideable. If you buy any new bike,
spend some time with your dealer or
someone familiar with setup, you won’t
believe the impact it has on your ride.
Chassis updates:
The YZ250FX chassis also features a
plethora of changes. While many of these
updates are the same as what the YZ250F
received in 2019, we are not going to bore
you with all the details – but it is, they say
a more rigid, slightly more slender frame.
The new bodywork is designed to ease
rider movement. The radiator shrouds
have a new concave contour and are
18mm thinner across, which makes the
bike feel a bit more slender between your
legs.
Naturally, the YZ250FX needs a bigger
fuel tank than the MX model. This one is
just about 8.5 litres and is incorporated
perfectly into the bikes ovearall slender
feel.
The engine and low fuel indicators just
in front of the handlebar. We have found
that the low fuel indicator comes on really
early – so you have time to get back to the
closest jerry can.
Ride impressions:
The first and most obvious change on the
FX is the way that it now puts power down.
It is noticeably stronger than our 2019
without any shadow of doubt. It is quick off
the mark and revs to the moon. For some
reason, the stock pipe is a lot louder than
previous renditions – and to be absolutely
honest – too loud comes to mind? Maybe
we are getting older…
The new FX feels closer to the MX version
than ever before – instant power on tap
– and in map 1 it really is quite snappy.
The YZ250FX comes on really strong off
the bottom and revs much further than we
needed on this tight, twisty route.
We spent some time working with the
optional map, going from map 1 to map
2, and found that the difference in base
settings is noticeable and can be beneficial
depending on conditions. We would need
to really play with the tuner to see if we can
make the bike more tech rock friendly – in
these two settings, it was quite aggressive
and needed a lot of body English.
The bike has always been very nimble
and agile, perfectly suited to GXCC and
off-road type riding and racing. This one
was set up for faster terrain, but Yamaha
assures us that for the more technical
rock hoppers, you can spend time with
the mapping tool to find the perfect sweet
spot.
We will do that feature soon.
The 2020 YZ125 X:
So - You’ll read at the beginning of this lot,
that Kyle was designated the 125 for the
day. That changed and pretty soon as the
much larger, heavier rider was usurped
from the 250. The fact that the little 125
managed to drag his big ass up and over
the mountain without any complaining is
testimony enough, for us anyway that
Yamaha has built a great little enduro
machine.
MX Genes:
Chassis:
Just like the 250FX, the YZ125x is begat
from Yamaha’s classic YZ125 MX bike.
The YZ125X shares the same chassis as
the YZ125, including the bodywork and
fuel tank. Changes include the 18-inch
rear wheel, a D.I.D 520MXV5 O-ring
chain, kickstand, and a reserve position
on the fuel tap so you don’t get stranded
on the trail and can get back to the pits
in case you run low on fuel. If you are
concerned about fuel range, we went to
Acerbis and fitted a long range tank onto
our bike. We included some Carbontek
protective gear for the rocks – readily
available and simple to fit.
THE MX GENES ARE VERY APPARENT IN BOTH OF THESE
BIKES
Engine:
The YZ125X uses the same powerplant
and gearbox as the YZ125. It’s a Yamaha
Power Valve System (YPVS)-equipped,
125cc, liquid-cooled, two-stroke, casereed-valve-inducted
engine that is paired
to a six-speed transmission.
It shares the same crankshaft, piston,
clutch, intake, and exhaust system as
the YZ125, but the YZ125X engine has
been tuned for wide, smoother, and more
controllable power across the rev range.
Suspension:
The YZ125X uses the same KYB Speed-
Sensitive System (SSS) coil-spring fork
and KYB shock as the YZ125. The spring
rates remain the same between the two
bikes with 4.1 N/mm fork springs and a 46
N/mm shock spring, but the components
on the YZ125X have been revalved for
off-road use.
Ride impressions:
Kyle used the bike for the fast sandy, MX
type photo’s – and as we approached the
mountain, he hopped onto the 250 and
took off leaving this slightly bigger guy to
manhandle the little YZ.
How strong is the engine?
Well strong enough to push a rider who
has no business on a 125 up and over the
mountain. And all of the changes to the
engine also means that the bike was not
screaming all the way through… But in the
faster stuff, she still loves to rev. Climbing
the rocky slopes and steep off-camber
hillside was actually quite hassle free –
you tend to ride with your ears, listening
for that sweet spot rather than just revving
away. The bike has a surprisingly good
amount of torque and ground clearance
and suspension is very good.
This engine is very smooth. The gearing is
paired just about perfectly with the power
band, making it even more fun to ride. It
runs clean, and for a 125cc two-stroke, it
builds power well from the midrange all
the way to very high rpm. It needs less
shifting than we expected. To help with
low-end torque, Yamaha increased the
rear sprocket size to a 50-tooth (up from
the 48-tooth that comes on the YZ125).
The 50-tooth rear sprocket means that first
gear is low enough for technical sections
and makes second gear very useful on
tight single-tracks. One thing we did on our
bike was weight the flywheel. It just makes
it that much easier in the techy stuff.
At 105 odd kilogrammes on a good day,
our rider is not the target audience for
the bike. Suspension going up was fine
– but coming down… the front was really
soft. Out with the trusty screwdriver and
we stiffened up a few clicks. Problem
solved…
Flicking along through the tight forest
sections on the trail is just so much fun.
Find an open section and open wide…
Man the grin factor is right where you
need it. She gathers speed and takes off
like a rocket!
This bike is light, flickable and so easy to
ride… A great bike to learn all the skills
without being intimidated.
Any young riders dream machine for sure.
These two from Linex Lynwood (Thanks
Guys.)
If you ask them nicely you might event
get to take them for a ride…
012 501 0120
www.linexyamaha.co.za
HONDA WING CENTURION
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CONTACT US
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ENGINE
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FRAME
FRONT SUSPENSION
REAR SUSPENSION
FRONT BRAKE
REAR BRAKE
WHEELBASE
SEAT HEIGHT
FUEL CAPACITY
CLAIMED WEIGHT
125cc, liquid-cooled, singlecylinder
two-stroke
6-speed/chain
Aluminum
KYB Speed-Sensitive
System (SSS) coil-spring fork
adjustable for compression
and rebound damping; 11.8-
in. travel
KYB shock adjustable for
spring preload, high-/lowspeed
compression damping,
and rebound damping
Nissin 2-piston caliper,
270mm disc
Nissin 1-piston caliper,
245mm disc
145.5 cm
95.5 cm
8 litres
95 KG’s fuelled
ENGINE
TRANSMISSION/FINAL DRIVE
FRAME
FRONT SUSPENSION
REAR SUSPENSION
FRONT BRAKE
REAR BRAKE
WHEELBASE
SEAT HEIGHT
FUEL CAPACITY
CLAIMED WEIGHT
250cc, liquid-cooled, singlecylinder
four-stroke
6-speed/chain
Aluminum bilateral beam
KYB Speed-Sensitive
System (SSS) coil-spring fork
adjustable for compression
and rebound damping; 12.2-
in. travel
KYB shock adjustable for
spring preload, high-/lowspeed
compression
damping, and rebound
damping
Nissin 2-piston caliper,
270mm disc
Nissin 1-piston caliper,
245mm disc
148 CM
95.5CM
8.32 litres
111 KG’s fueled
WITH EXPERIENCED AND FRIENDLY SERVICE
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GAS GAS
COMING SOON
COMING Soon
In our last few issues issue you might have noticed
that the GasGas Range is on its way to SA. In fact a
few Trials bikes are already here – but a bit more on
those soon.
A national dealer network is to be announced soon –
www.ktmgroup.com
If you go and have a look on our facebook page, you
can watch a video tour of the factory…
facebook.com/dirtandtrail
Proper!
GasGas has just announced all the bikes that we can
expect. A new era for the brand – and a new bike for
SA…
This in from GasGas with bikes due to arrive towards
the end of the year…
Let’s get on the gas!
Presenting our complete line-up of performance off-road
motorcycles, GASGAS Motorcycles are pleased to announce
the global availability of all our new generation 2021 motocross,
enduro and cross country models together with updated trial
machines. From our smallest 2-stroke motocross bike, the MC
50, to our largest 4-stroke cross country model, the awesome
EX 450F, all of our bikes will be available from GASGAS dealers
worldwide.
Since GASGAS became a part of the PIERER Mobility Group,
we have worked tirelessly to reactivate the brand. Ensuring all
bikes deliver vibrant styling, the latest technology and ease-ofuse,
we’ve established a 19-bike-strong range of no-nonsense,
user-friendly, performance offroad motorcycles.
All benefiting from the group’s robust, high-performance
technical base, each one of our bikes embraces a distinct
Spanish style as we continue to celebrate the rich and proud
heritage GASGAS has in trial competition and enduro racing.
With improved levels of dealer network coverage, service and
support, our goal is to encourage all riders to join in on the
action and get on the gas!
2021 unquestionably marks the start of an exciting new chapter
for GASGAS Motorcycles. To further support the launch of our
full range of off-road motorcycles, we’re thrilled to announce our
plans to go racing in the U.S. as we join forces with a hugely
respected name in the supercross/motocross paddock. We
are super pleased to announce the Troy Lee Designs Red Bull
GASGAS Factory Racing Team, which will contest the 2021
AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross Championships in the
250cc and 450cc divisions.
Minis
We want to make sure kids have fun too! Rejuvenated and
focused on an exciting new future, our expanded model range
features four GASGAS minis, designed for kids aged four to 15
years. With three high-revving, fun-filled 2-strokes, our MC 50,
MC 65 and MC 85 allow riders to unite in the dirt, confident of
having the very best bikes. Our all-electric MC-E5 is super quiet
and super fun – a fully-fledged, quick-charging competition bike
that benefits from zero emissions and almost zero sound. The
GASGAS mini range ensures no-nonsense performance, bikes
that are built to excite and encourage youngsters to develop
new skills.
MC50 MINI BIKE
Motocross
We might be the new guys but we are bringing fresh energy
to the MX scene. With a complete range of motocross bikes,
our no-nonsense approach to performance means all of our
models deliver proven technology, vibrant styling and an overall
simplicity that invites riders to unite in the dirt. Enjoying fun-filled
muddy weekends riding and racing with friends is what our MC
125, MC 250F and MC 450F motocross bikes are all about.
MC450 MOTORCROSS BIKE
Trials
We are all about trial and always will be, even if things are
a little different now. Improving and strengthening a wellestablished
line-up of innovative, class-leading bikes, we’re
fully focused on continuing our involvement in the sport where
it all started for GASGAS. We’re offering the same great
125cc, 250cc, 280cc and 300cc bikes, but now with drastically
improved levels of access, service and support. It’s that simple.
Trusted and loved by riders all across the world, the GASGAS
TXT RACING and TXT GP line-ups remain fun, exciting and
easy-to-use.
Cross Country
Because dirt bike fun shouldn’t be about compromises or
limited to just motocross and enduro. Recognizing the need for
dedicated cross country models, our EX 300, EX 250F, EX 350F
and EX 450F line-up sits shoulder-to-shoulder with our MC
and EC models to offer playful, energetic offroad performance.
Designed to meet the needs of woods racers both young and
old, they all offer proven credentials for a whole lot of fun!
Enduro
The thrill of off-road riding has long been at the heart of
GASGAS. That’s why our Euro 5 compliant EC line-up is
focused on ensuring fun and putting serious enduro bikes into
the hands of riders who love offroad racing. Our complete range
of 2-stroke and 4-stroke bikes all feature the latest technologies
and celebrate our unique Spanish heritage and enduro knowhow.
Utilising a well-proven performance platform, our EC 250,
EC 300, EC 250F and EC 350F enduro bikes are all about nononsense
riding enjoyment.
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
We will keep you posted on this brand as more details
unfold...
Motocross
We might be the new guys but we are bringing fresh energy
to the MX scene. With a complete range of motocross bikes,
our no-nonsense approach to performance means all of our
models deliver proven technology, vibrant styling and an overall
simplicity that invites riders to unite in the dirt. Enjoying fun-filled
muddy weekends riding and racing with friends is what our MC
125, MC 250F and MC 450F motocross bikes are all about.
EC300I. FLIPPEN PRETTY!
A week on the
t7
yamaha
The T7 has created quite a stir in the South African
market. We initially borrowed the bike for a day or
two where we had the opportunity to take a few
quick spins so to speak and get an idea of what the
bike is like. That was, quite simply not long enough,
so we petitioned the nice folks at Yamaha for a
longer session. Our request was granted…
After such a long wait, this bike needed to be put
through the wringer, the quick ride was cool, but it
raised more questions than answers.
Our guys had fun – but the most common
comments and questions were:
Great bike in the tech stuff – but is it a real world
adventure bike? Can you ride it from JHB to
Lesotho and then spend the weekend doing hard
adventure – or is it a bike that needs to be towed
to your destinations.Is it comfortable and powerful
enough to do the long roads and freeways?
Where is this bike placed?
What is this bikes competition in the market?
To answer the question, we signed up with Jo
Rust and a group for an adventure tour through
Mpumalanga. It was a good test for sure – a blend
of tar and dirt with distances that would answer
all of the questions asked. Our 500 plus kilometer
trail took us from the bustling metropolis of
Bapsfontein, around to Loskop Dam and on to the
Highside pub in Tonteldoos.
From there, we took routes to Dullstroom,
Lydenburg, Sabie… along some of our favorite
forest roads. And on Sunday, it was the long tar
road back home. You get the idea.
(www.jorust adventures.com)
To sweeten the pot, we invited participants of
all skill levels and who own all sorts of different
adventure bikes to ride her and give us some
feedback. You can see their comments on our
facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/
dirtandtrail/videos/1108423336226395/
So… on to the bike:
At a glance:
By now you have all done your homework
and you know exactly what makes this
bike tick. But here is a summary:
Aesthetically, in our humble opinion,
Yamaha nailed it with the 700’s styling.
Its shape is lean and mean, mimicking
the styling of their Dakar WR450F Rally
racebike.
The T7 is powered by the famous parallel
twin motor found in Yamaha’s road
going bike the MT07. That engine was
upgraded just a couple of years ago –
and given its compact fit and very user
friendly nature, it made perfect sense for
Yamaha to use it.
This proven power plant produces
roughly 73 horsepower and 50 lb.-ft. of
torque. Its long-stroke design is optimized
for low-end grunt, giving it lots of traction
in the dirt. In addition, the Yamaha’s 270°
‘Cross-Plane crank’ makes such a sweet
rumble. We need to comment that the
aftermarket Akarapovic on this one is a
marvelous, mellifluous exhaust system
for sure.
Yamaha took notes from their Rally
Racing heritage to develop a narrow, light
perimeter steel frame. Additional bracing
ensures it can handle punishment from
more-aggressive off-road riding and
removable lower frame rails make pulling
the engine an easier job.
The subframe is designed for carrying
luggage, but it’s welded on rather than
bolted.
Suspending the bike are 43mm KYB
forks with 8.3 inches (210mm) of travel
and a rear KYB shock with 7.9 inches
(200mm) of travel. Both front and
rear suspensions are adjustable for
compression and rebound damping, and
the shock has a hand crank for adjusting
preload. There is no preload adjustment
on the forks, nor does the shock have
high- and low-speed compression
settings.
The bike rides on proper, blue anodised
off-road spoke wheels, 21” up front and
18” in the rear. Standard, the bike wears
Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR adventure
tyres. Brembo Brake calipers clamp down
on twin 282mm discs up front, and a
single 245mm disc out back.
The Tenere 700 comes with a 16 litre
fuel tank. A rectangular shaped LCD
instrumentation shows everything you
need including gear position, fuel gauge
and available range. At 250 KM’s the fuel
warning light came on. We filled with 12
litres, so the range is what you need on
an adventure machine – and the warning
light is quite conservative.
Something else we noticed while riding
– the display up front tells you when you
are riding economically – pretty cool!
The bike has a decent-sized windscreen,
powerful LED headlights, a GPS
mount crossbar, a 12V outlet to charge
electronics, wide serrated footpegs
with removable (without tools) rubber
covers, a basic skid plate, wrap-around
hand guards, and an adjustable-height
front fender (for muddy rides) – all as
standard. Missing is a rear luggage rack
– (although the bike has four neat bungie
points), and maybe a center stand, which
are available as factory accessories.
Yamaha went back to basics with an
old-school LCD screen and simple on/
off ABS system. A simple button on the
display fully disables ABS. And as long
as you don’t turn the key off, the ABS
remains off even if you stall the bike.
There is no traction control, touch screen,
rider modes, IMU or any of that advanced
tech. Some eyebrows will be raised at
this – fact – we live in a tech crazy world,
but if you read this scribes scribblings,
you’ll know that he loves simple. The
system works and is not distracting – and
quite frankly, this bike does not require
anything more.
Keeping things simple also helped reduce
the weight with the Tenere 700 coming in
at just over 200 kilogrammes fully fueled.
The one we had was fitted with a few bits
– crash bars, brush guards, a GYTR chain
guard and an Akarapovic exhaust system.
So already, aftermarket components are
available to dress the bike.
This one was shod in very aggressive
big block tyres – not ideal for tar, but
excellent in the dirt.
Ride impressions:
This bike is quite tall and it feels narrow
and pretty dirtbikey. We like.
The big block tyres limited this bikes
performance on the tar. She sat
beautifully up to around the 140KPH
mark, but above that things got a bit out
of shape. This is NOT anything to do with
the bike. If you choose to fit aggressive
rubber, that is the down side for day to
day travel. We know that the stock Pirelli
units are great tyres for day to day use.
We easily got the T7 up to 170KPH and
she was still accelerating willingly. We
chatted to the guy who ran the bike in.
He took her up to the 195KPH mark no
worries. For some of the pics, we popped
Stefan our photographer on the back –
and you don’t even feel the passenger.
In the peak hour traffic, slow cruising and
jimmying between cars, she felt a bit top
heavy, but we only felt this at very low
speeds,
and we suspect that the tyres and
passenger might also have a role in
that… we only noticed it on that run in
heavy traffic.
We headed up into the koppies where
the passenger was chucked off and we
proceeded to trickle along the tricky,
rocky tracks. The T7 engine feels narrow
and pumps out a wide, flexible spread of
power. This permits early upshifts running
a gear high and lugging the engine up
and over steep hills and obstacles. Read
dirtbike. The bike shines in technical,
tight terrain – and here, the big block
tyres really came into their own. The
cable-actuated clutch is light and very
responsive.
We filled the tank to capacity on the
morning of departure and headed out
in the column for the ride. If you are
concerned about rider comfort – don’t
be. Long roads were an absolute breeze,
in addition to making the bike very
capable, Yamaha paid some attention to
rider comfort. We easily cruised along
at speeds around the 130 plus mark in
absolute comfort keeping up with the
bigger bikes quite easily.
Some of the gravel that we rode was
quite rough – so you are hammering
along at speed when suddenly there
are nasty rocks poking out, thick
sandy sections or bomb craters. The
suspension soaked it all up – really
forgiving. We were confused.
On our first test, one of our fast riders
rode the bike quite hard in some thick,
sandy sections and he really criticized the
suspension.
We found it to be excellent – perhaps we
would have set the front up a bit firmer –
and perhaps we are not as fast as some of
the riders out there – but for any average
rider, and a ride like this, we found it to be
comfortable, planted and very forgiving.
Who is the target audience for this bike?
In an age where adventure bikes are
getting bigger and bigger, more powerful
and heavier, some manufacturers have
taken a step back and thought – “what
about riders who do not want to take
battleships off-road?”
Thus, bikes like this T7 and KTM’s 790
range were born. Do they compete in the
traditional 850 plus market? Well no, not
really. If we were to pigeonhole bikes like
these, we’d need to say – that they are
aimed squarely at people looking for an
alternative to the big singles, a bike that
is more comfy on the road - and of course
comfortably faster. A bike that can also do
gnarlier stuff off the beaten track. A bike for
the more experienced dirt rider who wants
more than just a commuter or gravel road
machine.
Another target audience would be a
rider getting into the game who wants a
smaller, more compact machine. Read our
comments above – anyone can ride them.
We had proper fun. This is a great
addition to the SA marketplace.
Here's a second opinion by our mate
Pete McBride from the Highside Pub
in Tonteldoos:
The T7, in my humble opinion.
In the early 2000’s, Dwayne “The Rock
“Johnson was on the top of his game in
the world of professional wrestling. Now
if you were a fan (come on, we want the
truth now ) you will remember he had a
catch phrase that would go something
like “ FINALLY……THE ROCK HAS
COME TO ALABAMA” or whatever town
he happened to be performing in that day.
Well a few days ago, Dirt And Trail was in
my neck of the woods with a crispy clean
Yamaha T7. Exciting stuff when you live
in rural Limpopo.
Jo Rust adventures was in town and I
had the pleasure of guiding the group on
a lekker little loop around the Lowveld. At
the beginning of a particularly fun 50 kay
dirt road. Glenn asked me if I would like
to take the T7 for a ride. This is when the
rocks catch phrase popped into my head.
But modified a little bit it went something
like “FINALLY, The T7 has come to rural
Limpopo!”
I wasn’t exactly surrounded by thousands
of adoring fans. But this was a moment
I had really been looking forward too
since I first saw “spy photos” of the T7 in
development.
Yes, I know we have had to wait a while,
but in my humble opinion, I think the
wait was totally worth it. This bike is an
absolute belter. ABS is the only electronic
assistance available, and it is super easy
to turn off. One button on the dash. Press
it for a few seconds and “hey presto” it’s
time to get sendy.
If you have read more than one or two
motocross bike shootouts, you will notice
that the blue bikes, more often than
not, get the thumbs up for suspension
and handling on their bikes. It’s one of
those things. They just get it right. True
to form. This bike was excellent on the
poorly maintained dirt roads of Lowveld
Mpumalanga. The dirt roads here are full
of surprises. Lurkers, rain damage, fesh
fesh, speedbumps/ drainage ditches. The
T7 soaked them all up with very little fuss,
it felt planted and comfortable all the time.
The Motor is a gem. I spend most of
my time riding sweep or keeping a slow
steady pace so the groups we ride with
do not spread out too much. So my riding
style on adventure bikes has turned into a
very “old man” style, running a high gear
like 4th and just plodding along with the
motor ticking over at about 60 or so.
It’s a great way to chill and watch the
scenery change. But you can normally
only get away with it on a large capacity
bike. The T7 has an excellent low to midrange
that lets you chill out like that.
Then you can just roll on the power and
the speed climbs nice and predictably
until 8000 RPM. Then things get exciting.
It pulls really well at the top and will keep
many advanced riders honest.
The ergonomics are standard adventure
bike stuff. The seat height is about the
same as most of the ADV bikes on the
market. Obviously the bars will be fiddled
with to suit the set up needs of each
owner and suspension tweaked a bit.
But with far fewer electronic gadgets.
This bike puts its hand up as a serious
contender when thinking of journeying far
north of the SA border. You can fix this
bike with spanners. Not a laptop. That will
appeal to some and not to others. There
is no right and wrong here. It’s all down to
personal taste.
So in conclusion. If you are in the market
for a mid-capacity adventure bike. It’s a
good time to be alive because you have
a range of excellent options to choose
from. The T7 absolutely has to be on
your list of bikes you need to test ride.
WHAT IS BETTER THAN A BIKING WEEKEND
WITH A BUNCH OF MATES?
From the first time buyer to the guy who
has done ten Roofs and even more 1000
desert races. It will be a good idea to have
the tuning forks on your radar. We might be
witnessing the birth of another legend bike.
I certainly hope so.
My sincerest thanks to The Dirt And Trail
crew, and by extension Yamaha South
Africa for letting me take the bike for a ride.
It took me about three days to wipe the
smile off my face.
I sure hope that it is a mighty sales
success.
Peter McBride.
Conclusions:
So – there you have it. Two very similar
opinions from two very different people.
The bike surprised everyone who rode it.
Yamaha has done their homework and
produced a great all round machine. You
cannot compare this bike with a big cc adv
machine so don’t do that. Don’t expect top
speeds in the 210 kph plus range – this is
only a 700.
But it’s a 700 with street and dirt cred that
left our lot smiling.
Get hold of your Yamaha dealer
and book yourself a test ride.
Specs
Engine
Transmission
Front Suspension
Rear Suspension
Front Tyres
Rear Tyres
Seat Height
Wheelbase
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
Wet Weight
689Cc Liquid-Cooled Dohc 4-Stroke; 8 Valves
6-Speed; Wet Multiplate Clutch
43Mm Inverted Fork, Fully-Adjustable; 8.3-In Travel
Single Shock, Adjustable Preload (W/Remote Adjuster)
And Rebound Damping; 7.9-In Travel
90/90R21 Pirelli® Scorpion® Rally Str
150/70R18 Pirelli® Scorpion® Rally Str
87.3 Cm
159Cm
24Cm
16 Litres
205 KG
www.yamaha.co.za
TRAX
KTM 390 Adventure
Small Bike =
Big Adventure
Our Mizz B gets her first taste of KTM’s 390 Adventure and shares her opinion…
KTM’s “mini” adventure reached our shores
Just days before the national lockdown
was implimented. This is the bike from the
KTM Adventure range that I have been the
most excited about trying after seeing it
announced at the EICMA in 2019 and reading
about the national launch in Dirt And Trail
Magazine.
They do say good things come in small
packages…
When I arrived at Trax KTM to pick up the 390
Adventure, it was waiting right at the front of
the shop and I walked right past it. No, not
because it was so tiny I missed it, I actually
had to double back because I mistook it for
a 790!
Make no mistake, this might be a “small”
bike, but it has a huge presence.
This specific KTM 390 Adventure also
came equipped with a number of extras
to make it more offroad focused, including
knobbly tyres, a headlight protector, hand
guards, bash plate, radiator braces and
even the cutest little crashbars.
Ok ok… This bike is probably anything
but cute as it shares the aggressive
ready to race, rally inspired styling and
features of its bigger brother the KTM
790. I couldn’t help but think how this bike
will have serious appeal to fellow lady
adventure riders, with the low seat height
and manageable weight. At only 158kg
(dry) the KTM 390 Adventure is one of
the lighter bikes in the small adventure
biking segment, unless of course you
start looking into dirt bike territory. So
while the KTM 390 Adventure sure looks
the part, I was keen to see how it handles
in different terrain and we put together a
good 250km route so we could really get
a feel for it.
We scooted out early on Sunday morning
taking the diamond route towards the
touristy town of Cullinan. My partner
Johan was riding his trusty KTM 690
and Trax Chief Riaan accompanied us
on the KTM 790R. The mini adventure
out accelerated most of the morning
traffic and kept up well enough with the
big boys, cruising along comfortably at a
speed of 130km/ph. The engine, which
has been tried and tested in its Duke
counterpart (read our feature on that
bike in this months RideFast Magazine),
for a number of years now, pushes
out a whopping 43.5hp (32kW), truly
impressive for a bike of this capacity.
Most notably the engine is incredibly
smooth and does not feel rough or clunky
as some single cylinder motors do.
In terms of seating and riding position, at
just over 1.75m I did not feel cramped,
neither did the bike make me feel tired
considering the distance we did for the
day. The windscreen (also adjustable),
though small, did make a difference and I
didn’t experience any annoying buffeting.
After topping up with fuel we head further
up north past the settlement of Moloto and
onto our first dirt road, which just happens
to be in a pretty nasty and corrugated
condition. I quickly change the settings on
the 390 to “Offroad Mode” and switched the
MTC (traction control) off.
This little monster features on- and off
road riding modes, MTC as well as
ABS (cornering & offroad) which are all
accessed and adjusted on the same tablet
type interface found on the 790 models.
Seeing this is KTM’s entry level adventure
bike, you get a lot of bang for buck when it
comes to technology.
While the WP Apex suspension (43mm
inverted fork with 170mm travel front,
177mm travel rear) worked beautifully on
tar, on the badly corrugated dirt road, it
didn’t quite soak up the ruts as well as its
sibling the 790S, and I had to slow down
a fair amount to feel in control. The 390
Adventure also doesn’t feature a steering
stabilizer like the 790 models do, something
riders must take into consideration when
doing higher speeds on dirt.
After the poor condition dirt road, we hit
the tar again and passed the Loodswaai
farmstead. Here the road took us over
a hill and the most beautiful bushveld
vista met us on the other side. We
stopped briefly near the newly built
Nokeng Mine and Riaan helped me
to tweak the suspension, which is
fully adjustable on the front, with the
dampening being adjustable on the rear
shock.
From here on things got more interesting
as we followed a narrow, sandy
tweespoor trail which runs between the
farm boundaries. The suspension tweak
made an immediate improvement to the
handling which highlights how important
correct bike setup is. I really started to
enjoy myself trying to chase the 690 and
790R down the trail, this bike comes into
its element on the twisty roads. I now
understand why fellow journalists raved
about how much fun this bike was at the
Sun City launch. Further up the road we
crossed over the Enkeldoringspruit River
and took a break under the shade trees
at Apie se Drift. Another short hop and
we were in Allemansdrift where children
ran alongside us, excitedly waving at the
orange army traversing their town.
We finally reached Rhenosterkop Dam,
which is located near where the borders
of Gauteng, Limpopo and Mpumalanga
meet. We rode down a rocky slope where
we get a good look at the dam wall, which
was built on the Elandsrivier back in 1984
to serve the area.
The 390 Adventure handled the rocky
ups and downs quite well, I did have to
plan my path a bit more carefully though,
keeping in mind that this bike has a lower
ground clearance to that of the 690 and
790R which were riding ahead. The area
around the dam forms part of the lesser
known Mkhombo Nature Reserve.
As the water level of the dam was quite low,
we were able to navigate our way all around
the dam. The track we followed took us
between the acacia trees over the rocky hills
and right down through the grassy plains to
the shores of the dam. The only other visitors
we encountered were the local fisherman
and a few cattle herders. Eventually we got
to the thick tweespoor sandy roads which
zig-zagged between the thorns. The 390
Adventure sports the smaller 19” front and
17” rear cast aluminium wheels which,
surprisingly didn’t seem to hamper us too
much in the thick sand. This is really where
the bikes light weight made it easy to manage
and it felt nimble and easy to control through
the sandy turns.
A number of people have raised their
concern about the suitability of the
aluminium cast wheels for off road riding as
spoked wheels are normally preferred.
All I can say is we didn’t manage to break
them with our shenanigans – and there
was not a single failure at the launch
earlier this year. And there was some
hard riding involved.
During the last bit of our
circumnavigation we sped through
even more rural sandy roads, narrowly
dodging a very out of place Camry in
our wake. Often during our travels I
marvel at where these family cars can
go and I believe they’ll leave many an
“adventure” rider behind in their dust!
We get onto the main road again and
start heading in the direction of Rust
de Winter. Here we stop at the general
dealer where the mama running the
shop quickly sells us some ice cold soft
drinks before heading off to church.
Again I was truly impressed with the
relevant ease the 390 Adventure got
through the same terrain as the more
dirt orientated 690 and its big brother the
790R. On the last leg of the route Riaan
and I did a sneaky switcheroo
and I quickly caught up with Johan who
was riding up front. When I pulled up
alongside, the same blonde moment
I experienced earlier at Trax, when
I mistook the 390 with the 790, was
experienced by Johan... He did not
notice that I had swapped the mini
adventure for the bigger 790R…
We have a good laugh as Riaan shows
up on the 390. He decides to really
push when we get to a smooth dirt road
nearing Moloto. The 390 and 690 take
off, racing each other down the road
and over the hill, Riaan looking like a
slightly cuter version of a Dakar racer,
reaching a top speed of 145km/h on the
well compacted gravel road. On the tar,
tucked under the screen pretending to
be Brad Binder, Riaan managed to get
our 390 to nearly 160km/ph.
Now, I feel that it is a bit unfair to
compare the 390 adventure directly
to the 790”S” and “R” as they are in a
different league all together. It is fair
to say though that the 390 should be
able to get you to most of the places
the bigger bikes will, albeit at a more
reserved pace.
Getting back into the rustic town
of Cullinan I start to miss the mini
adventure and I couldn’t wait to swap
back with Riaan. The fact that the
390 has a smaller frame as well as a
narrower fuel tank (14.5L), makes it nice
and agile to ride through the tight stuff
and through the traffic, not forgetting
to mention it’s also very economical
making it a favourite amongst commuters.
Being able to get both feet firmly on the
ground makes it easier to do simple things
like getting in and out of parking spots
and just generally just manoeuvring and
handling the bike.
Over lunch Riaan and I both babbled
on over how much care free fun we had
riding the mini adventure. We really did
push the bike today, probably a bit more
than recommended, but the fact that
it could actually do everything that the
bigger adventure bikes did was what really
impressed us. The KTM 390 Adventure
has all the technology of a big adventure
bike, but neatly wrapped up in a smaller
package. I believe that this is a bike that will
really open up the Adventure segment to
new riders and novices.
Specs
Lady riders should also find it
unintimidating and easy to manage.
While the 390 Adventure may not so
much interest the hard-core okes, it will
appeal to riders who just want a lighter
and easier to handle bike.
The KTM 390 Adventure makes for a
great go - anywhere run around and
commuter, with just enough versatility
to take it off the beaten track for that
unexpected big adventure!
Another big thank you to Trax KTM
for entrusting me with their KTM 390
Adventure to bring you this write up –
Barbara Muszynski.
www.traxktm.co.za
Capacity
373cc
Engine layout
Single Cylinder
Engine details
4 V DOHC Engine
Power
44bhp @ 9000rpm
Torque
37 lb.ft @ 7000rpm
Top speed
170kmh (estimated)
Average fuel consumption 27.9km/litre (estimated)
Tank size
14.5 litres
Max range to empty
400km (estimated)
Rider aids
5 colour TFT SCREEN MTC ( Motorcycle Traction Control), OffRoad ABS,Cornering ABS,
KTM My Ride (Smartphone connectivity + Navigation)
Frame
Steel Trellis Frame, Powder Coated
Front tyre 100/90 - 19
Rear tyre 130/80 - 17
Seat height
855mm
Dry weight
159kg
BEFORE
@ SILVER LAKES
AFTER
SMALL
BIKEBIG ADVENTURE
TRAX KTM 390 ADVENTURE
DIRT CONVERT
Willow Rock Shopping Centre, Solomon
Mahlangu drive, Willow Acres. Pretoria East
012 111 0190
from R93 999
Extras not included
SIZE DOESN'T
KTM HEADLIGHT GUARD
MATTER
KTM RADIATOR GUARD
KTM BASH PLATE
KTM CRASH BARS
KTM ALUMINUM FRAME HAND GUARDS
KENDA BIG BLOCK
TRAX KTM STICKER KIT
All Parts excluding Tyres are KTM Power Parts
PHOTO: RUBEN LOUW
MaddY Malan
HUSQVARNA
The 1100 Africa twin base model revisited.
We decided that a sundowner was a
good idea so we headed back to Clarens
before it got too dark. A few beers in and
a promise to the wife that she could go
shopping on Sunday with the credit card
got us brownie points to ride on Sunday
too…
Sunday was a chilled ride to Fouriesburg.
We went to kuier at the historic Union
House and Destiny Castle and had a chat
with the owner, racing legend Mike Fogg.
He gave us permission to head up to the
castle. We took a wrong turn and ended
up at the Caledon river.
All we wanted to do was jump across
the river and head to Katse Dam, but we
didn’t.
We made our way up to the castle and
took a tour.
You feel like you are on top of the world -
unbelievable. This really is a place to go
and visit.
www.destinycastle.co.za
Kyle Lawrenson takes his first ride in
Honda’s CRF1100L
Rider Modes, Cruise Control, TFT
screen, ABS, Traction control, Wheelie
Control, IMU, Manual transmission….
A few years ago when the Africa twin
1000 was released, our office was in
lust. Our Clive Strugnell in particular
did not actually want to ride anything
else.
The lady running the place was very
chilled and there was no issue with us
taking over the car park with the bikes
and cars and she wasn’t concerned about
the noise either.
We will most definitely go back.
www.lolasluxury.co.za
Saturday saw a breakfast in town with the
ladies before hopping on the bikes and
making our way to Golden Gate.
Before we could do any riding we had to
figure out how to use NASA’s control system.
I stand to be corrected but there were less
buttons on the space ship than there is on
the Africa Twins handle bars. It is all, however
quite intuitive and easy to figure out. And the
bike is packed with heaps of electronic aids.
We took a ride through Golden Gate,
one of the most scenic roads in Southern
Africa but we also took the two loops off
the main road into the mountains. Now
we were not sure if we were actually
allowed to ride there or not but we did
anyway.
The narrow roads Loop through the
reserve, a series of tight, twisty corners.
These roads would be amazing if there
was no speed limit but you get so lost in
the views that there is no need to go fast.
After our little expedition, we made our
way to the town of Phuthaditjhaba.
When I was growing up, this was a
fairly small town- and now it is almost
the size of Kempton Park. We did not
head towards the border, instead we
passed the border road and headed out
Witsieshoek way. What a cool ride.
We will be back soon to explore again
soon.
Having said that, he did show us little
road behind the hotel where we could go
and get some cool pics.
We followed the path to the top of the
mountain where we were greeted by a
spectacular view of the Amphitheater and
the unknown Dam that we couldn’t get to.
After a few more pics we carried on down
the twee-spoor which soon became a
single path.
After a few minutes there was silence.
This was a small problem because there
were 2 other bikes along.
I rode back to comments like “We are not
of Effing Dirtbikes!!!”
That says a lot about this Africa Twin it
proved to be very capable in the tight
techy terrain.
We made our way back down and
headed for home. The rest of the day
was spent taking the ladies for a ride, one
by one on the Africa Twin. We ended up
at the Ash River – this is an incredible
project. The water comes from Katse
Dam into the Ash River where it then
heads into SA’s network of rivers.
We also stopped off at the Van Reenen
family Grave site. It’s very interesting to
read the dates on the stones.
There is so much to do and see in this
area if you own a motorcycle. We are
very lucky for sure.
As a sidebar, Kyles goose Tazz said.
“Right, its time for an Adventure Bike!”
SH!T this was an expensive weekend…
The only one who was not convinced
was the youngest of all, our Kyle. So
as a second welcome back gift, we
told him to take the all new CRF1100
Africa Twin away for the weekend and
let us know what his thoughts on the
new bike was.
Where did we go?
We headed off to Clarens on Friday
morning and arrived at a cool little called
Lola’s Guest House just 200m away from
the Square. This made the boss happy.
Accommodation can vary in Clarens,
from quite budget to very larney. Our little
place was R500 pp/pn – this was for a 6
Sleeper and it felt like we were in a 5 star
hotel.
On the road to Witsieshoek, we took
a right up to one of the highest dams
in South Africa, tucked away in the
Drakensburg mountains. We attempted
to get to the top of the Dam wall but
we came unstuck, the security was not
having it…
A blue note and a coke didn’t even
convince him.
Good on you chap. However he did send
us on a big loop to nowhere, I think we
offended him.
Eventually we returned to a shut hotel on
the top of the dam where we asked again
to go to the view point. This security
guard was even more stubborn – the
hotel is closed, sadly, it did not survive
the Covid Pandemic.
Very modern, happy wife, happy life.
The Bike:
Where to start? The computer system from NASA?
Once we figured it out we loved it. Yes you want
to get away from your phone when riding but the
apple play makes things so easy. Navigation,
music and also calls are displayed on the screen.
That’s where you decide to answer when the boss
is calling or not. You need to have a head set
otherwise the Apple Play will not work.
The power delivery is very smooth and there is no
kick in the arse factor - but when you look down
you are doing 200kph. You can feel the difference
between the power modes and they can be
changed on the fly.
The bike did not get hot at all even in the
30-degree heat on top of the mountains. It is just
so easy and comfortable to ride that it gives you
so much confidence in the fast corners where Kyle
found that the predecessor gave the slightest bit
of flex.
This bike was fitted with Karoo Street tyres a great
choice for a trip like this.
The Bump up to 1100cc’s is an absolute winner.
The bike is not small – but it feels a lot more
compact than the previous model- and it is
significantly more powerful – while still staying
smooth and easy. In Off-road conditions, the new
suspension is also far better for more aggressive
riding. It seems that Honda listened to all of the
criticisms on their previous bike and paid attention.
All in all Kyle came back gushing.
We were all blown away by his response. He was
not convinced about this bikes predecessor, but he
wants one of these…
“The new Africa Twin is a fantastic bike. Fast,
powerful, balanced and oh so comfortable. I need
to ride it some more”
Get down to your Honda dealer and take a spin.
It’s is a fantastic way to turn fuel into fun.
From R220.000.
Specs
Engine Type:
SOHC liquid-cooled 4-stroke 8-valve
parallel twin with 270° crank and
Uni-cam.
Displacement:
1084cc
Max. Power Output 100.6 hp (75kW) @ 7500rpm
Max. Torque:
77.4 ft.-lbs. (105 Nm) @ 6250rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.8L
Transmission Type: 6 speed manual (6 speed DCT)
Seat Height:
850/870mm; low seat option 825mm
high seat option 895mm.
Ground Clearance 25 CM’s
Wet Weight (EU)
Front Suspension
Rear Suspension
ABS System Type
226kg
Showa 45mm cartridge-type
inverted telescopic fork with
dial-style preload
adjuster and DF
adjustments, 230mm) stroke
Monoblock aluminium swing arm
with Pro-Link with Showa
gas-charged damper, hydraulic
dial-style
preload adjuster
and rebound damping adjustments,
220mmrear wheel travel
2 channel with IMU
VIEW FROM DESTINY CASTLE
VAN REENENS GRAVE SITE
Standard Africa Twin
CRF1000 manual
R185 000
NOW ONLY
R179 999
Get moving with our
special offer of a R5000 discount
on our CRF1000 range! While stocks last.
In a world where everything is becoming mobile, you should be too!
CRF1000 manual
R205 000
NOW ONLY
R199 999
Energy Hack
for Long Rides.
CLICK IT READ IT LOVE IT
WWW.MOTOMEDIA.CO.ZA
OCTOBER 2020
ITALIAN
AFFAIR
MV AGUSTA
Riding dirt bikes usually means active
mornings out riding for quite a number
of hours. Riding usually starts well with
loads of energy and high spirits. However
if you are not properly prepared your
energy levels will wane as the morning
gets longer and hotter. As exhaustion
grips you, your ride can become
unpleasant not to mention dangerous.
The good news is that it does not have
to be that way if you simply implement
this one Base Fit energy hack. Doing just
this one thing will help give you sustained
energy over many hours of riding even on
those super-hot days.
Did you know your body will first cool
itself before it gives you energy? In
other words, your body temperature
will first be lowered by sweating before
you receive energy to keep going. So
what happens on a hot day is that you
sweat profusely, losing water rapidly
and subsequently become exhausted as
dehydration sets in.
Even the slightest bit of dehydration you
will leave you feeling lethargic.
So here is the hack:
Before riding, make sure you start your
engine with more water in your system
on a cellular level, than you would on an
average day. This will ensure you have
ample H20 to keep your sweat glands busy
for hours without robbing you of energy.
Taking in hydration through your tripper
as you get thirsty while riding is not
enough to prevent mild dehydration. You
need to plan ahead so you don’t fall into
that rookie trap.
But of course, there is a catch! Carrying
so much water in your system will make
you feel heavier than normal. This in
turn can make you feel slower, but only
initially. Bear in mind that being a bit
slower in the beginning of a long ride is
far better than running out of energy later.
This is especially true for racing and is
the difference between slow finishers and
those that finish strong and fast.
So how do you increase your body’s
hydration? Simple, just follow these 5
simple steps 24 hours before your big
ride.
1.Eat more carbohydrates such as
potatoes and rice. The reason for this
is to increase the glycogen levels in
your muscles. Glycogen is not only
responsible for immediate available
energy, but it also holds three times
its volume in water. Bonus! This is the
same reason why you sometimes feel
puffy the morning after eating a heavy
carbohydrate meal the night before.
Note: Do not increase your overall food
count the day before, but rather eat less
protein to make up for the increase in
carbohydrates.
2.Do light exercise the day before your
big ride. Nothing intense, just 20 minutes
of light training just to get your heart rate
up and your muscles working. Doing this
encourages more glycogen to get stored
in your muscles which in turn will give you
increased cellular hydration when you
drink water.
3.Increase your water intake to about
50% more than what you would on a
normal day. Please note this is plain
water you need to drink, not in the form of
energy drinks or coffee.
4.Don’t have alcohol the night before.
Alcohol will dehydrate you and possibly
cause cramping towards the end of your
ride.
5.Make sure you have a solid
carbohydrate-based breakfast, such as
oats, about 2 hours before riding.
6.Keep taking in water right up until you
ride.
If you would like to know more about
our Base Fit way of eating and training
please mail me on mandy@basefit.co.za.
Mandy Thomas – Base Fit
YouTube: Mandy Thomas Base Fit Five
Thirty Club / Facebook: Base Fit Trian to
Win / Instagram: BaseFitCustomFitness
E-Mail: mandy@basefit.co.za //
Contact: 082-461-1443
SUPERVELOCE
3 Year Warranty and Service Plan Included
IN THIS ISSUE
BMW R1250RS - SUB 500CC MULTI TEST - TL1000 - APRILIA TUONO V4
MOTOGP NEWS - LOCAL RACING - ELECTRIC YAMAHA FZR AND MORE...
BMW M1000rr
WORLD LAUNCH
IN STORES AND AVAILABLE ONLINE WWW.MOTOMEDIA.CO.ZA
20010
October 2020 RSA R35.00
9 772075 405004
Where the
madness
starts...
The fact is, that motorcycles have become more than
just a toy these days - and often trying to justify the cost
of a big, mainline brand can be an issue. The Big Boy
brand is a cost effective way to get into the game. Without
spending a lot, you get to see if you enjoy it and want to
take the sport a bit further.
They dropped this cool little Pit bike off at our place and
told us to go and play...
What is it?
A mini bike. But a mini bike that anyone
can ride. So it can double as a dirt bike
for junior and a cool little runabout for
pops when he is at the track.
A bike that guarantees lots of grins
without being intimidating. A perfect
learners bike with all of the normal bike
functions like gear and clutch selection.
The TTX125 is Big Boy's top-selling
pit bike. The 125 motor combines with
the larger wheels and clutch-operated
4-speed manual gearbox. Upside down
forks and rear gas shock provide the
travel with front and rear disc brakes
providing the stopping power. Add to this
a cool 4-stroke exhaust bark and you've
got an off road ready machine that's lotsa
fun.
This Big Boy feels pretty solid, it started
and ran faultlessly for the duration that it
was with us with decent acceleration and
enough top speed to almost keep up with
our CRF230 Hondas.
Our boys literally rode the wheels of this
bike, visiting our little lockdown Enduro
track as soon as mom wasn't looking to
practice their tricks, scaring the hell out of
the dogs and hitting the ramps on the plot
as hard as they could.
They passed the bike over to some of
their mates who came to visit and pretty
soon, some of the kids who had never
ridden a bike before were tearing around
the plot like seasoned pro's.
As this point we would like to apologize
to all of the parents for the incessant
nagging that has accompanied the
experience - you see, our job is to get as
many peeps onto bikes as we possibly
can - and hey! It sure beats playstation.
The Big Boy TTX 125... Nippy, easy to
ride and great fun for sure!
There used to be hundreds running
around everywhere.
Get a new one, get a used one - and go
play.
R14699.00
At your Big Boy dealer.
www.samotorcycles.co.za
When Trials
Meets Enduro...
As punishment for leaving motorcycles for the corporate world – and
coming back again, we decided to treat our Kyle Lawrenson to a day
with a certain Mr Brent Le Riche...
Kyle is a pretty good rider when it comes to pretty much anything
off-road or Enduro. Having been parked in his car and behind a desk
for a year or so during his stint with corporate, we noticed that he had
developed quite a midriff – and we felt that it would be fitting to relieve
him of some of that discomfort.
Brent had mentioned to us that the very latest Beta Trials bike had
landed – and that he'd love for us to come and do a feature... So we
sent Kyle along and asked him not to die.
To be fair – initially he was quite Blasé about the whole thing. A Trials
bike is just a mini dirtbike right? Right?
He tells the story.
It's about forty degrees. The air does
not move in the rocks and it feels as if
my heart is about to bounce out of my
chest. I have just spent little over half an
hour trying to come to terms with this silly
looking little contraption. No seat, no feet
and engine that delivers more torque than
a Harley and brakes that are smaller than
the ones on my bicycle...
No airflow. There is nothing fast about
anything that we have tried to do...
And this was just the start of the day.
I'm pretty sure that Brent was laughing
at this supposedly fast, skilled enduro
boy making a fool of himself, but he is
a consummate professional and only a
small twinkle in his eye gave it away...
He watched me thrash around thinking
that I was doing great until he could not
take it any more.
"JUST STOP!" "Come here and listen!"
"Let's start at the very beginning. Forget
what you think you know and pay
attention."
Well that's what it felt like – but he's
actually a pretty polite guy...
Then he proceeded to school me on the
art of Trials and more specifically, body
language, body position, planning your
lines and skills.
Body language. Hop on the bike and do
some left hand turns. Bars completely
locked, legs twisted like koeksuster and
balance. No dabbing or putting feet down.
It goes opposite to everything I've done to
date. A bit like Ballet on a bike.
Once he was satisfied with the left
trurns, it was repeated to the right – and
then some figure of eights. The smooth
torquey engine of a trials machine allows
you to do all these low speed maneuvers
– it feels weird, but once you get it right
it's pretty cool.
Why would you do this?
All for practical purposes. He took us
down into a gulley with some steepish
sides where the trials guys train – and
made me do the same exercise in some
really tight, twisty terrain... nothing too
technical, but... tight. It was a lesson on
hard lock turning without ending up at the
bottom of the Grand Canyon. Very foreign
to me because my usual style is to attack
at speed, foot down, pivot turn and open
wide... But you can't do that in trials. It's
all about control and not dabbing your
foot...
From there he made the loops
progressively more tricky and challenging
- and he spent time showing clutch
control – and THAT'S the game
changer...
How to ride the clutch in order to make the
tyre find maximum traction without actually
dumping it. And then, of course - finding
the sweet spot where you don't burn the
clutch out.
Have you ever wondered how Jarvis
and Bou find traction on seemingly
unclimbable surfaces?
Well this is what it is chaps. All in the
clutch.
There is no such thing as dumping the
clutch and attacking the slopes. Dump
the clutch here and you'll pull spectacular
wheelies and probably whoop out.
No exaggeration here.
It took a while, but when he was
eventually happy that I was reasonably
capable, drenched in sweat and panting
like a penquin in the Kalahari ol – we
went off to find "Just a a few" gnarly
rocks.
Once again – amazing to see how skilled
these trials guys are – I have always
been pretty good on a BMX – but guys
like Brent are class acts. He would show
the line and nonchalantly hop up... and
I would try (Read TRY) to follow without
crashing my brains out.
20 minutes in I was absolutely stuffed.
If you think that you are fit, you really
should go and give this a shot some time.
It looks effortless but you are literally
using every muscle in your body to try
and stay in control.
Here is Brents take on the new machines:
Straight from the Le Riche Bro's mouth:
Let's get straight to it. The looks! Oh my soul, a big 10 for me! It
looks trick and it looks expensive...exactly what it is.
Well done Beta! Even though the Evo Trials model is nearing
the end of its lifespan, the Italian designers have still managed
to give it such flair! Beta took the standard bike and infused an
'M Sports Pack' type of colour kit, to give it a rich, sporty look
that really works. Throw in those gorgeous gold rims, triple
clamps and red air box to name a few, and it looks Hollywood!
Now for the slightly less important stuff after the looks - the
Factory fitted components for power and control.
Motor Parts – To enhance the horses, Beta has fitted a
specialized racing cylinder with optimized porting, a specially
designed cylinder head, and a couple of tweaks to the ignition
programming. Over the already powerful Standard version,
power is not going to be your problem, and it definitely comes in
IT WASN'T A SMILE IT WAS A GRIMACE
strong straight from the bottom.
The Italian bike manufacturer have wrapped up these engine
mods and set them free via a feather light titanium header pipe,
and the suspension is taught with great feedback.
Unfortunately this being a loan bike from someone I actually
like, I couldn't launch myself at every rock ledge I thought it may
fly up. I will say though that it was very respectable around the
tight stuff and simple zaps, but screams like a fishwife when
pushed... that you don't actually want to find out where it ends.
If it could just be launched with a set of decent of Dunlop tyres,
there would be that one "X" on my list, but it is more bike than I
could ever squeeze out of it!
Quality, precision and beauty!
If you have the cash, it is gorgeous to look at and enthralling to
ride! A big thanks to Alan from Insurance Zone to lend us his
blue bottle for the test!
LIKE FATHER
LIKE SON
He took pity on me and allowed me to
quietly die under a tree while he put on a
bit of a show so that Stefan (Who stared
open mouthed throughout) could get
some great pics.
If you want to hone your skills and get
fit... this is one sure fire way to get it
done.
A used trials bike is a great way to start
and they are reasonably inexpensive.
The ones in this story are the latest and
greatest from Beta.
For more info on trials www.nrtc.co.za
for club news etc.
National Enduro:
It feels like September has been a month of second
places for me, but I still made some valuable points for
the title,”
It was a tough day in the saddle for his Brother Leader
Tread KTM teammate Scott Bouverie. In the highly
competitive E2 Class, the rider only just missed securing
a spot on the podium and finished in fourth overall.
BRETT SWANEPOEL AND MATTHEW GREEN
STORM TO VICTORY
As riders returned to the National Enduro Championship
under Covid-19 regulations, this weekend Pepson Plastics
Husqvarna Racing stole the show. Brett Swanepoel and
Matthew Green stormed to victory in the E2 and E1 Class
respectively.
Swanepoel entered the event in third overall in the E2 Class
and relished the opportunity to fight his way back up the
leaderboard. Over the past year, Swanepoel has worked
relentlessly to reinstate himself as a force to be reckoned
with in the fight for national glory. With a line-up of riders that
included names like Scott Bouverie and Blake Guzeit, and an
extremely unforgiving route; Swanepoel’s impressive victory
was hard-earned.
“I am so stoked to have taken the top step. It was such a
demanding day on the bike and the track was so testing and
tough on the body. Thank you to my team for all the support,”
said Swanepoel.
Swanepoel now holds the red plate in both the National
Enduro and Cross Country Championship. With a rider that is
spearheading the hunt for national titles, a proud Husqvarna
South Africa’s Brand Manager Fred Fensham commented: Brett
once again showed that hard work, commitment and dedication
pays off. After his win in the E2 class, he now holds the red
plate in both National Enduro and National Cross Country –
wow!"
Having accomplished his goal of winning the High School
Championship, teammate Green stepped up to the E1 Class in
2018 to find his place amongst South Africa’s enduro elite. The
victory this weekend was a massive milestone for the
prestigious young rider, who not only proved that he has the
pace to keep up with the frontrunners in this sport, but the
talent to beat them.
“It feels so good to take my first win in the E1 Class! There
were so many things that contributed to this victory – the
track was amazing, my TE 150i was on point, and my team
never skipped a beat. All the months of training for this during
lockdown has finally paid off!” said Green.
“What an incredible weekend - the second in a row for the
PEPSON PLASTICS HUSQVARNA RACING team. Not sure
my nerves can take much more! To win both E1 and E2 for
our team is simply amaizing. Matt Green was on the gas from
the start and brings home his maiden victory in the class. Very
happy and proud of him and the team! Again I must thank
Anthony for his meticulous prep of the Husqvarna racing
machines and giving the boys the equipment to win on. My best
wishes go to Heindrich Aust, the young gun that we are helping
out this season and wish him a speedy recovery after taking a
nasty fall and injuring his lower back – I’m sure he will be back
soon” said Fensham.
It was also an exciting weekend of racing for Brother Leader
Tread KTM who took on the first National Enduro event under
Covid-19 regulations.
Bringing home some silverware was the team’s rising enduro
talent Bradley Cox, who finished in second overall in the E1
Class. While Cox was chuffed to secure a spot on the podium,
he is unrelenting in his determination to take the top step this
year.
Fresh off a second place in the National Cross Championship
two weeks ago, he commented: “It was a good day in the office!
Like we expected, it was an extremely tough track.
“I didn’t have much in the tank today, but it was so
good to be out racing again. Thank you to my team and
sponsors for the ongoing support,” said Bouverie.
Rounding out the orange team on Saturday was Jarryd
Coetzee and Charan Moore, who are more well-known
in the Cross Country circle.
With the hope of gaining new skills, Coetzee signed
up for the National Enduro Championship at the start of
the season. It didn’t take long for him to showcase his
potential in this discipline, and after a solid start to the
season lined-up on Saturday with a fifth place on the E2
leaderboard overall.
Coetzee withdrew from the event, however, after an
unfortunate crash in the sighting lap.
While teammate Moore is committed to the Cross
Country Championship, he used the event this weekend
as an opportunity to test himself and gain valuable
time in the saddle. As the director of the Roof of Africa,
Moore felt right at home as he chipped away at Natal’s
technical terrain. He not only conquered the demanding
route but finished in an impressive fourth place in the E1
Class.
As the team prepares for the next round in October,
KTM South Africa’s Marketing Manager Louwrens
Mahoney commented:
“Really proud of the Brother Leader Tread KTM team
and their performance. It was a tough and demanding
route, and we did not get the results we were aiming for
- but we are walking away with valuable championship
points. We now know what to work on and are really
excited for the next round of the National Enduro.”
This from Yamaha SA:
Congratulations to all the Yamaha riders for outstanding
results:
Bruce May, P1 National Masters.
Lloyd kirk P3 National E1.
Luke Walker McLarens Attorneys P3 National E2.
Kayde mante from RBS Yamaha P4 National E1.
Dylan Cox from RBS Yamaha P4 National High School.
Kevin de Kock from Droomers Yamaha P6 National
High School.
“WFO and Enduro SA - MSA National Enduro
Championships would like to give a big Thanks to our
National event sponsor Yamaha bLU cRU and Regional
Sponsors Yamaha Motor Southern Africa, Alfie Cox
Racing and Cleanrite for sponsoring this event.
Thank you to Mickey Hayter and Pete Woodburn for
putting together an unbelievable track.
Thank you to the riders and their supporters for coming
and supporting the event, we know it’s a tough one but
thank you for sticking to Covid-19 rules!
This was an outstanding event and was one of the best
national events that has taken place in the last couple
of years. Good racing, good sportsmanship, great
comments and a shows that Enduro Racing in South
Africa under Enduro SA is in very good hands and is
positioned to grow from strength to strength.”
National Racing is back!
Coetzee served notice of his intentions in
the series’ lockdown delayed second round,
when he blitzed Saturday morning's time
trial over Gilbert, Brother Leader Tread
KTM OR2 man Charan Moore, Cocker and
Taki Bogiages’ OR2 Pepson Plastics Motul
Husqvarna. Coetzee and Gilbert kept up the
pace in the main race to come home ahead
of Swanepoel. The main interest was the
battle between Cocker and Cox, who was
on a charge after a slow time trial. Do as he
may Bradley would not overcome that deficit.
In the classes, overall winner Coetzee took
middleweight OR2 from Brett Swanepoel,
Taki Bogiages, Ian Rall and Gert Davis.
Kenny Gilbert took open class OR2 honours
from Charan Moore and Husqvarna trio
Jaycee Nienaber, Wynand Delport and Kyle
Holton. Davin Cocker took the small capacity
class from Bradley Cox and KTM quartet,
Ryan Pelser, Peter Karam, Quintin Venter
and Erik Ernst Merry.
Wade Blaauw powered his Roost KTM
to a dominant over-36 Seniors win over
Husqvarna man Deon du Toit and Zack da
Silva, Hannes Saaijman’s KTM and Yamaha
rider Marco Cocci. Bert Smith Racing KTM
rider Pieter Höll overcame Wayne Farmer’s
Biker's Warehouse Husqvarna to take
over-36 Masters honours. Johan van Wyk
ended third on another Husqvarna from
Yamaha man Martin Poole and Iain Pepper
and Hannes Rootman on another two
Husqvarnas.
We popped down to take a walkabout at the Off-road
National held out Legends the other day. Record entries
proved that people are so tired of being locked down…
Social distancing and masks were the order of the day and
the smell of sanitizer replaced the usual two stroke fumes.
Everyone was smiling and seemed very happy with life. The
guys were very complimentary of the routes – and all in all
– it was great to see the fast boys having some incredible
dices…
Pics by Glenn and Kyle Foley, Action In Motion and ZCMC
PRETORIA CROSS COUNTRY SURPRISES by Motorsport
Media…
What SA National Cross Country Moto Round 2
Where
Legends, Pretoria
When Saturday 12 September 2020
Community South Africa National
In the schoolboy action, Matthew Wilson’s
MCA Holeshot Husqvarna took the High
School win from KTM duo Dumél du Plessis
and Derek Karam, Dylan Cox on a Yamaha
and Branden Swanepoel (KTM). The primary
school Interprovincial classes saw Cobus
Bester’s MCA Holeshot Husqvarna take the
85cc win from Stefan Zybrands’ Droomers
Yamaha and Lucian Meyer. Brandon Clarke
took another MCA Holeshot Husqvarna
to the 65cc win from GJ Coetzee’s similar
machine and Jake Pretorius on a KTM.
It’s great to see the national race wheels
slowly starting to spin!!!
The 2020 South African National Cross
Country Championship wraps up with a
double header for rounds 3 and 4 on 17 and
18 October at Virginia Trails, Mid Illovo KZN.
The Pepson Plastics National Cross Country motorcycle race
delivered a few surprise results at Rhino Park in Pretoria.
Jarryd Coetzee took overall honours aboard his Brother Leader
Tread KTM ahead of Pepson Plastics Husqvarna trio, OR1
winner Kenneth Gilbert, OR2 man Brett Swanepoel Pepson
Plastics Husqvarna. OR3 winner Davin Cocker delivered another
turn-up for the books in fourth overall, just three seconds ahead
of class rival Bradley Cox’s Brother Leader Tread KTM.
NATIONAL MX Words by Motorsport Media. Pics by Ruben Louw
DOUBLE HEADER
What SA National Motocross Rounds 2 & 3 Report It was a different story on Sunday however, as Goosen
Where Thunder Valley, Pietermaritzburg KZN
took his chance to do the double as Purdon and
When 26-27 September 2020
South Africa National
Malan shared out the lower podium steps.
Kerim Fitz-Gerald took a gate-to-flag opening Saturday MX2
SA motocross bounces back in style
The Cannabis Energy South African National Motocross
Championship exploded back into action
with a double header round 2 and 3 at Thunder
Valley in Pietermaritzburg on Saturday and Sunday.
It proved a great weekend of spectacular, muddy
racing with multiple winners and a few surprises
in the open classes. There was a fair bit of domination
too, across the ladies and junior motocross
moto for KTM after Yamaha challenger Slade Smith crashed
in pursuit. David Goosen was second on another Yamaha
from KTM man Tristan Purdon. Goosen took race 2 from
Smith, Fitz-Gerald and Purdon.
Slade Smith then made it three winners in three 250cc MX2
races over the double-header weekend in a Yamaha 1-2 over
David Goosen and Fitz-Gerald. Goosen then went five wins
up for the weekend across Moto 1 and Moto 2 when he beat
Smith and Tristan Purdon’s KTM in Moto 2 race 2, too.
classes.
SA champ Maddy Malan started the weekend perfectly
with a double open class Moto 1 victory for Husqvarna
on Saturday. He beat Yamaha man David Goosen and
Cameron Durow on a KTM in the first race. Malan then
took heat 2 over Goosen and Tristan Purdon’s KTM.
Over-30 rider Wyatt Avis beat over-40 men Ian Topliss and
Brett Bircher in Saturday’s opening MX3 masters class race.
Topliss’ Yamaha took race 2 from KTM men Avis and Bircher
on a pair of KTMs. Avis took both Sunday’s races as Bircher
and Topliss shared out the second places.
While there were multiple winners in
the open classes, it was however a
different scenario in the Ladies and
schoolboy classes over the weekend.
Kayla Raaff once again proved unstoppable
in Ladies MX as she powered
her Kawasaki to four wins out
of four races. Natasha Rugani on her
KTM and Husqvarna sisters Jadene
and Chayenne de Lima fought over
the crumbs.
Jonathan Mlimi’ was another rider
to take a clean sweep of 125cc High
School wins aboard his KTM. On
Saturday he beat Miguel de Waal and
Mark-Anthony Filip each time in a
double KTM clean sweep. And on Sunday
he beat Yamaha rider Christian
Celliers and de Waal’s KTM in race 1,
and Dylan Lloyd-Kirk and Celliers in
race 2.
Kayde van Deventer’s KTM took the
opening 85cc Pro Mini heat from
Bryce Petersen on a Yamaha and
Lucas Venter’s Husqvarna. Petersen
then beat du Plooy and Venter in race
2. Nobody could stop Petersen on
Sunday however, as he powered to
the double. He beat Venter and Seth
Young’s KTM in the first race and
Wian du Plooy on a Husqvarna and
Venter in the second moto.
Husqvarna kid Liam Botha was unbeaten
in the 85 Junior races. Ryan
Adler on another Husqvarna and Yamaha
lad Tyler Petersen swapped out
the seconds and thirds on Saturday.
Botha continued his winning form with
two more Sunday wins over Petersen,
while Ryan Adler and Timo Maximo
Toepfler on a KTM shared the thirds.
START OF MX2
Neil van der Vyver dominated the
65cc class for Husqvarna. Jordan van
Wyk on another Husqvarna and KTM
kid Trey Cox shared out the seconds
and thirds in pursuit on Saturday. On
Sunday, Van der Vyver beat KTM pair
Cox and Blade Tilley in moto 1, before
Jordan van Wyk bounced back to second
over Cox in the final moto.
And last but not least in the baby 50s.
Trenton Kretzman won both Saturday
races on a Husqvarna. Brody Bircher
and Evan Frost shared out the seconds
and thirds on their KTMs. Kretzman
took Sunday’s first race from
Bircher and Frost. Frost then took the
final from Kretzman and Bircher.
The 2020 SA Motocross championship
will wrap up with another double-header
in Bloemfontein over the weekend
of 24 and 25 October….
For further information please contact
info@mxsa.co.za
Brough to you by:
NATIONAL MX Words by Motorsport Media. Pics by Ruben Louw
JOSHUA MLIMI
David Goosen
Pitbikes
The perfect intro to dirtbiking:
Some time ago, we ended up on a Whatsapp group for Pitbikes. We
didn’t leave it because, we reckon that Pitty’s are great value – and
a great way to get into the sport. Some of the guys on that group
hosted a pitch and race day a couple of weeks ago. They took some
snaps and sent us this feature…
Founders of ShadeyFilms, Cade Mein and Shane Baynham have
been in the local motocross scene for years. For them it’s all about
enjoying Off road riding and enjoying the extreme sports lifestyle in
South Africa.
On the 29th of August 2020, Shadey_Films hosted the 1st
#PitbikePitchAndRide which was a great success.
Friends and family gathered for a day out at Dirt Bronco MX
Track for some pit bike shenanigans. An amazing day of riding
was enjoyed – and they managed to get two races in for added
adventure. Each moto winner got prizes from Dragon Energy.
Their goal with this event is to bring back the love of Motocross and
to show that you don’t need to spend a fortune to ride and have fun.
Even Scotty Billet the LW Mag King Of The Whip Champion joined
for the day to have a fun day riding and to support the event.
The guys are planning to host a Pitbike Pitch And Ride once a
month.
It’s a fantastic initiative and a great day out… so if you have one –
dust off that ol Pitty and give it a new lease on life.
If you are looking for a Pit Bike, the guys from Big Boy have quite a
lekker range.
www.samotorcycles.co.za for your closest dealer.
For more details on these events:
Instagram: @shadey_films @cadelevi @Baynham501
@Bttmedia Facebook: Shadey_films
Stopping Power
Galfer Brake Components
Galfer brake discs, pads and brake lines are a feature
of many off road motorcycles, race teams and world
championships as OEM.
Here’s an interesting story about the firm and their
products,
Fitted as original equipment to more enduro and off road
bikes than you might know, Galfer is a braking component
manufacturer that most of us using any form of two bike
are familiar with – whether we know it or not.
Galfer has been making brake materials and components for
everything from Enduro to MTB, TrialGP, WSBK and MotoGP
for more than fifty years, since the company was founded in
1952.
The discs, pads and brake lines are all designed and
manufactured in a 6000 sq. metre factory at Granollers next
to the Circuit de Catalunya, north of Barcelona. The history of
Galfer stretches back decades to a time when bikes needed
brake shoes… ask anyone who rides a CRF230.
Galfer currently supplies original equipment for many brands:
• KTM (Road and Off-Road): 100% of
production
• Husqvarna (Road and Off-Road): 100% of
production
• Beta (Enduro and Trial): 85% of production
• Sherco (Enduro and Trial): 50% of production
• TM Racing (Enduro): 90% of production
• Rieju (Road and Off-Road): 100% of
production
• Montesa (Trial): 100% of production
• TRS (Trial): 100% of production
• Vertigo (Trial): 100% of production.
World Championship racing leading development
Off road sport is a tough environment and Galfer knows that to
keep improving its products and performance it needs to work
with the best riders and teams in the world.
A close collaboration with factory race teams helps development
and the result is championship titles in MotoGP, WSBK, MXGP,
AMA SX, EnduroGP, TrialGP, Supermotard and globally many
national level championships.
Galfer riders have won more than 45 world titles in different
disciplines including Marc Márquez, Alex Márquez, Jorge
Lorenzo, Maverick Viñales, Joan Mir, Jorge Martin, Steve
Holcombe, Jason Anderson, Kiara Fontanesi, Toni Bou, Laia
Sanz and Emma Bristow.
At EnduroGP, riders using Galfer components include the Beta
Factory Racing team and World Champion Steve Holcombe.
In Extreme and Hard Enduro Mario Roman leads the way.
Galfer Moto products overview:
Brake Pads
As we all know, brake pads are a fundamental element in any
brake system. They're directly responsible for transmitting
the power of the caliper to the brake disc. Galfer has developed
specifics compounds for each type and model of motorcycle,
looking to offer top performances in all conditions.
Features:
• Powerful, progressive & smooth brake
• Low wear rate and minimum noise
• Maximum resistance to the fade effect
• Efficiency in wet conditions
• No wear on brake disc
• 12 different compounds to choose in semimetal
and/or sintered metal
Brake Discs
The “Wave Disc” represents the best example of research and
development by Galfer. Laser cut, stainless steel with a high
carbon content, they are a direct replacement component and
bolts on just like a stock disc.
Features:
• Lower weight of the unsprung masses
• More braking power
• Better heat dissipation
• Excellent resistance to corrosion
• Less tendency to warp
• Maintains cleaner the contact surface paddisc
• Improve and personalize the motorcycle
aesthetic
• Anodized or chromed high resistance
aluminium (7075 T6 - 6082 T6) or stainless
steel (AISI 420) carrier
• 14 different types of Disc Wave
• All “Disc Wave” models with the same original
disc size of the motorcycle are certified by TÜV.
Brake Lines
Galfer braided brake hoses claim an improved performance
of more than 30% over stock parts as they have a much lower
expansion coefficient. They are made of materials of the highest
quality: braided stainless steel coated with PVC on the outside.
Features:
• Improves direct touch: strong, consistent and
more accurate.
• Direct connection to the brake pump caliper.
• Increased speed of response.
• Do not corrode and resist the highest
temperatures.
• Complete kits brake and clutch with 1, 2 or 3
tubes for each specific motorcycle model.
@trickbitzz
LOGO PARA USO ENRECAMBIO Y COMPETICIÓN
LOGO FOR USE IN AFTERMARKET & COMPETITION
Trickbitz_cc
• (tubes for off-road motorcycles include a
protective sheath).
• Fittings and reusable supplied exploded.
• Tubes available in three colours (transparent,
black and carbon) and fittings available in
silver brass quality.
More information about Galfer brake hose product range here:
Galfer.eu
Imported and distributed locally by
Trickbitz – www.trickbitz.co.za
Chat to your dealer.
LOGO ORIGINAL
ORIGINAL LOGO
LOGO INVERSO
The choice of champions.
INVERSE LOGO
G1396
Compound.
Motocross.
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Adventure bikes.
Semi metal &
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Quads. Sinter Quads compound
Trade Enquiries: (011) 672-6599
Email: mark@trickbitz.co.za
COLORES Enquire CORPORATIVOS
at your local dealer
CORPORATE Office Hours COLOURS Mon-Fri 8am-5pm
www.trickbitz.co.za
Sea to Sky
Sea to Sky
There are few races that capture your
imagination like the annual Sea 2 Sky
in Kemer, Turkey. A hard Enduro race
that encompasses pristine sandy
beaches, thick pine forests and then
soaring up to 2,365 metres above
the glistening Mediterranean in the
Olympos mountains touching the sky.
Cycle Technology ccT/A
Started in 2010 by the local Kemer Enduro
Club who managed to get the lads behind
Romaniacs involved the following year. With
their experience and know how the Sea 2 Sky
soon became an annual bucket list challenge
for any self-respecting hard enduro rider.
You don’t have to be a pro rider or be part of
an international team, several guys based
around Europe rent out bikes, back vehicles
and service teams. You just need to have the
money to get yourself and pay your way, once
you have rented a bike and a team you are off
to the races. And what a way to race it is, go
out in the morning and ride with your mates in
possibly some of the most photogenic scenery
around, get back around lunchtime then go
and chill on a Mediterranean beach with a
cold one while the team earns their rental fee
prepping your bike for the next days racing,
that sounds like a bargain to us.
Last year, S.A.’s Wade Young gave it stick,
winning a couple of stages, but his team mate
Mario Roman managed to pip him at the
line for overall honours giving Wade a solid
second overall ahead of the tough old dog
Graham Jarvis. In 2020 Jarvis managed a win
over the young guns with a final day’s time of
2:28:15 and had this to say:
“It was a great race today and I was lucky if I
am honest, especially after damaging the bike
earlier in the event. I went into the Mountain
Race about 4 minutes behind Billy and as
all the top guys ended up riding together, I
thought there was no chance for me today.
Billy took a wrong turn and I managed to get
out in front of him and that for the last 20
minutes.”
Wade Young had a great ride on day 4 to
‘kiss the sky’ on the top of Mt. Olympos for a
close second spot behind Jarvis sealing P2
for the second year in row … Third times a
charm Wade, we are all rooting for you. Wade
was happy to be back in business saying, “it
felt good to be back racing this weekend.”
Also saying, “It was good to be battling with
the boys this weekend, happy with P2 for the
weekend.” Sending out his gratitude to his
team and sponsors.
Billy bolt was in top form the entire 4 days,
with a win on the beach and dominating the
subsequent forest and sky races and led
most of Saturdays race before being waylaid
by some route marking tape left over from a
previous race. The wasted time essentailly
cost Billy overall honours. Billy had the
following to say, “ Overall, it’s been a really
good week here in Turkey, I am really happy
with my riding and know I had the pace to
win every day. I had led 80 or 90% of the
Mountain Race and was first to reach this
tricky hill, it seems they had left some route
marking tape up from last year and I followed
it. By the time I had realised and turned back
I had lost too much time.” Mario Roman also
followed Billy down that particular rabbit hole,
but still managed a tight fourth overall at the
end of the weekend’s racing.
Mah Bru! ... you have just got to come do this.
You don't have to have the latest and greatest machine,
you just have to have fun.
This is how tight the race up the mountain was, all 3
podium finishers giving it horns up the mountain.
Final results were as follows:
1. GRAHAM Jarvıs 02:28:15,57;
2. WADE Young 02:31:39,33;
3. MARİO Roman 02:35:22,18;
4. BİLLY Bolt 02:35:39,25;
5. TEODOR Kabakchiev 02:51:05,39;
6. LEE Sampson 03:26:34,38;
7. PETER Weiss 03:37:05,80;
8. JONATHAN Richardson 03:37:14,07;
9. ALBERTO Alamuro 03:40:59,42;
10. BAYRAM Uysal 03:44:53,31;
It is not all plain sailing ... sometimes you get it wrong.
Billy Bolt-ing ahead of the crowd.
Jarvis reaching the finish.
Accessorising of all
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Customisation Consultancy
Repairs, Trueing and Lacing of Wheels
Tubeless Conversion
Puncture Repair Kits
PUNCTURE REPAIR KITS
EST. 1978
Adventure, Classic and
Custom Motorcycle and
Accessory Specialists
Battling to find BMW
Motorcycle Parts?
Exclusive stockists of a
comprehensive range
of New, Aftermarket,
Reconditioned and
Used Parts from 1950
to current Models.
Professional Restoration, Custom
Building, Servicing and Repairs
of all BMW Motorcycles
Officially Appointed
Distributors for
Motorcycle Equipment,
Accessories and more
(011) 433 8850 info@cytechmotorcycles.co.za
61 Port Road, Robertsham, Johannesburg
www.cytechmotorcycles.co.za
THE ADVENTURE
& DIRTBIKE
SPECIALISTS
IN PRETORIA!
22 BLESBOK AVENUE , KOEDOESPOORT INDUSTRIAL
087 808 3650 / 087 808 3649
Email: info@offroadcycles.co.za / Website: www.offroadcycles.co.za
TYRE TECH TALK
by Bruce de Kock, owner of Bike Tyre Warehouse Group
ALL THE PREMIUM BRANDS
THAT COUNT UNDER ONE ROOF
Motorcycle Tyre Basics
Diagram – Liner to seal the air inside & the bead to make sure the tyre stays firmly secured to the rim.
TYRE FUNCTIONS
Hello Peeps, September smashed in a second at least for me
it has been the fastest month of the year, the riding community
is back in full force with sales of new bikes; accessories and in
our case rubber on the increase with record sales since march
being reported across most segments of our industry which is
great for the traders and the public as the competition between
the traders ensures the most competitive prices in stores
country wide.
As promised in the September issue I would focus on tyre
basics moving onto the more advanced aspects of tyre
technology so let’s start at the very beginning with the definition
of a motorcycle tyre;
A pneumatic motorcycle tyre is a flexible component of the
wheel assembly made of rubber and reinforcing materials.
TYRE FUNCTIONS
Inflated with compressed air or nitrogen it enables the wheel to
carry the load and to transmit longitudinal and transversal forces
to the rim and thus to the motorcycle.
Tyre functions – the tyre performs 6 main functions that need
to be assured in all circumstances of weather, temperature and
road conditions long term as well as being as puncture resistant
a possible.
So if we want to put them into a numbered order then
Supporting the Load of the motorcycle, the rider, the pillion
and luggage would be number 1; vehicle suspension like a
spring, with shock absorbing qualities and the ability to damp
unnecessary motions, moving onto 3 would be road holding
and braking, the tyre transmits braking forces to the road
surface through the footprint’s ability to match to road surface
irregularities and to provide a high level of friction.
1 Support the load
of the motorcycle, the rider, the
passenger and luggage.
Liner:
To seal the air inside
Bead
Makes sure the tyre is firmly secured to the rim
7
The tyre performs 6 main functions that need to be assured in all
circumstances of wheather, temperature and road conditions, over a
long term and puncture-resitant
Vehicle Suspension like a spring, with a shock absorbing quality with the ability to reduce unnecessary motion.
TYRE FUNCTIONS
1
Support the load
of the motorcycle, the rider, the
passenger and luggage.
4
Lean and steer
Change and maintain trajectory through the footprint to
provide stability and steering response.
2
Vehicle suspension
Like a spring, with a shock absorbing quality and the
ability to reduce unnecessary motion.
2
Vehicle suspension
Like a spring, with a shock absorbing quality and the
ability to damp unnecessary motions.
5
Traction
It ensures the transmission of the engine
torque to the ground.
3
Road holding and braking
It transmits braking forces to the road surface
through the footprint’s ability to match to road
surface irregularities and to provide a high level of
friction.
6
Handling
It enables lean and trajectory transitions
Like a spring, with a shock absorbing quality and the
ability to reduce unnecessary motion
5
Moving onto 4 would be lean & steer i.e. change and maintain
trajectory through the footprint to provide stability and steering
response, 5 is one most understand traction it ensures the
transmission of engine torque to the ground, lastly handling
which enables lean and trajectory transitions.
1.Support the Load of the motorcycle, the rider, the
pillion and luggage is achieved by containing compressed air
in a sealed volume, higher air pressure supports higher loads
(within the prescribed inflation limits) bearing in mind the higher
the air volume the higher the bearable load.
11
Tel: 011 205 0216 • Cell: 073 777 9269 / 083 467 1349
Unit 9 Sable Park, 997 Richards Drive, Midrand
Facebook @BikeTyreWarehouse • Twitter @biketyrewhse
www.biketyrewarehouse.com
TYRE TECH TALK
by Bruce de Kock, owner of Bike Tyre Warehouse Group
ALL THE PREMIUM BRANDS
THAT COUNT UNDER ONE ROOF
Road Holding & Braking the tyre transmits braking forces to the road surface through the footprint’s ability to match to road surface
irregularities and to provide a high level of friction.
Diagram – Motorbike with rider on showing braking force
3
Road holding and braking
Transmit braking forces to the road surface through
the footprint’s ability to conform to road surface
irregularities and provide a high level of friction.
TYRE FUNCTIONS
Traction ensure the transmission of engine power to the ground.
5
Traction
Ensure the transmission of the engine
power to the ground.
TYRE FUNCTIONS
Transmit Braking Forces to the Road Surface
Ensure the transmission
of the engine power to the ground
Through the footprint’s ability to conforms to road surface
irregularities and provided high friction
Lean & Steer change and maintain trajectory through the footprint to provide stability and steering response.
12
TYRE FUNCTIONS
Handling enables quick changes of lean angles and trajectory.
6
Handling
Enables quick changes of lean angles and trajectory.
14
TYRE FUNCTIONS
4
Lean and steer
Change and maintain trajectory through the footprint to
provide stability and steering response.
Change and Maintain trajectory
Through the footprint to provide stability
and steering response
«the corchscrew»; Laguna Seca,
USA.
13
So that’s a brief wrap on the 6 main functions of a motorcycle
tyre, obviously each one of these points is a story on its own
which we can look at in the future as promised for now its just
the basics.
I am off the computer and back to work as we are busy setting
up the work shop in our Cape Town store which opens on the
1st October, but I am sure Sean & the chaps here at Ride Fast
/ Dirt & Trail mag will be giving a heads up on all that in the
15 November issues.
Take care out there, roll on the sunshine and open roads.
Bruce de Kock – Bike Tyre Warehouse Group Holdings
Tel: 011 205 0216 • Cell: 073 777 9269 / 083 467 1349
Unit 9 Sable Park, 997 Richards Drive, Midrand
Facebook @BikeTyreWarehouse • Twitter @biketyrewhse
www.biketyrewarehouse.com
BUYER’S GUIDE
SELLING
YOUR BIKE?
FIRE IT UP IS THE MOST TRUSTED PURCHASER IN SA!
WE PAY INSTANTLY, WE COLLECT, WE COME TO YOU!
www.fireitup.co.za
BMW
R nineT Scrambler R204,400
G 310 GS R81,400
F 750 GS R179,400
F 850 GS R188,900
F 850 GS Adventure R223,300
R 1250 GS R263,000
R 1250 GS Adventure R288,900
DUCATI
Multistrada 950 R217,900
Multistrada 950 S R243,900
Multistrada 1260 R242,000
Multistrada 1260 S R298,700
Multistrada 1260 Enduro R297,900
Multistrada Pikes Peak R362,900
Multistrada Grand Tour R328,900
Sixty 2 Scrambler R128,900
Icon Scrambler R155,900
Full Throttle Scrambler R184,900
Classic Scrambler R164,900
Desert Sled Scrambler R200,900
1100 Scrambler R199,900
1100 Scrambler Special R219,900
1100 Scrambler Sport R251,900
HONDA
Africa Twin 1100 Manual R210,000
Africa Twin 1100 DCT R229,499
Africa Twin 1100 AS Man R236,000
Africa Twin 1100 AS ES R269,000
XR190 R49,620
XR150L R32,960
XR125L R30,000
CRF250L R74,999
CRF250 Rally R77,999
CRF110F R34,400
CRF125F R42,900
CRF250RX 19 R105,999
CRF250RX 20 R116,600
CRF250R 19 R98,900
CRF450RX 19 R110,999
CRF450RX 20 R122,100
CRF450R 19 R109,999
CRF450R 20 R121,000
TRX250TM R98,000
TRX420FA R154,999
HUSQVARNA
TC50 mini R44,699
TC50 R44,699
TC65 R53,699
TC85 R66,699
TC125 R87,699
TC250 R99,699
FC450 R109,699
FC350 R113,699
FC450 R115,699
FC Rockstar 2019
POD
TE150i R107,699
TE250i R127,699
TE300i R133,699
FE250 R127,699
FE350 R129,699
FE450 R132,699
FE501 R134,699
701 Enduro R141,699
TX125 R94,699
TX300i R123,699
FX350 R126,699
FX450 R128,699
FS450 R122,699
701 Supermoto R141,699
KAWASAKI
Versys-X 300 19 R79,995
Versys-X 300 20 R85,995
KX65 R41,995
KX85 BW R54,995
KX250 R115,995
KX450 R119,995
Brute Force 300 R84,995
Mule SX 2×4 R145,995
Mule SX 4×4 R179,995
Mule PRO-MX 4×4 R225,995
Teryx 800 ESP LE R299,995
KTM
50 SX R43,999
50 SX Mini R43,999
65 SX R52,999
85 SX R65,999
SX-E 5 R58,999
125 SX R85,999
150 SX R89,999
250 SX R97,999
250 SX-F R106,999
350 SX-F R110,999
450 SX-F R112,999
450 SX-F FE R126,999
150 XC-W TPI R104,999
250 XC TPI R121,999
250 XC-W TPI R122,999
250 EXC Six Days TPI R130,999
300 XC TPI R126,999
300 XC-W TPI R127,999
300 XC-W Six Days TPI R136,999
300 EXC TPI ERZBERG R141,999
250 XC-F R122,999
250 EXC-F R122,999
250 EXC-F Six Days R129,999
350 XC-F R124,999
350 EXC-F R124,999
350 EXC-F Six Days R133,999
50 XC-F R127,999
450 EXC-F R127,999
450 EXC-F Six Days R135,999
500 EXC-F R129,999
500 EXC-F Six Days R136,999
FREERIDE 250 F R101,999
390 Adventure R85,999
790 Adventure R181,999
790 Adventure R R194,999
790 Adventure R Rally R273,999
1290 Super Adventure S R241.999
1290 Super Adventure R R249,999
690 Enduro R R159,999
690 SMC R R159,999
MOTO GUZZI
V85 TT Evocative E5 R234,850
V85 TT Travel Pack R249,850
PUZEY
EGL Madix 250cc R38,990
EGL Madix ATV 125cc R15,999
MXR 180 - MX R24,990
STX200-Enduro R26,999
STX200-Motard R26,999
STX250 - Enduro R32,999
Thumpa 70cc R9,499
Whiz Kid 70cc R9,499
XP 125cc R11,999
XP Stomper 125cc R12,999
SUZUKI
TF125K5 R33,550
DR200SEL5 R52,500
DL650XAMO R128,500
DL1000XAL9 R172,900
DL1050RCM0 R221,950
RM-Z250M0 R99,982
LT-F250L8 R76,950
LT-A400FM0 R131,750
LT-A750XL9 R160,700
LT-F400FM0 R131,855
SHERCO
SE 125 Racing 2T R99,000
SE 250 Racing 2T R129,400
SE 300 Racing 2T R132,700
SE 125 Factory 2T R109,900
SE 250 Factory 2T R137,300
SE 300 Factory 2T R137,900
SC Cross Country 125 2T R112,300
SC Cross Country 250 2T R135,400
SC Cross Country 300 2T R133,600
SE-F 250 Racing 4T R132,300
SE-F 300 Racing 4T R134,200
SE-F 450 Racing 4T R138,600
SE-F 500 Racing 4T R139,800
SE-F 250 Factory 4T R142,700
SE-F 300 Factory 4T R145,000
SE-F 450 Factory 4T R149,100
SE-F 500 Factory 4T R147,700
SE-F 455 Factory BAJA 4T R198,900
ST125 Racing R93,900
ST250 Racing R112,500
ST300 Racing R112,900
ST300 Factory R115,900
X-Ride 290 R90,700
All pricing correct as at time of publishing, but may vary due to exchange rates etc.
All pricing correct as at time of publishing, but may vary due to exchange rates etc.
SELLING YOUR BIKE? FIRE IT UP IS THE MOST
TRUSTED PURCHASER IN SA!
WE PAY INSTANTLY, WE COLLECT, WE COME TO YOU!
SWM
SD 650T R132,572
SD 650 X R132,572
RS 300 R R111,198
RS 500 R R121,950
TRIUMPH
Tiger 800XCX R186,000
Tiger 800XCA R205,000
Tiger 900 Rally CN7 R192,000
Tiger 900 Rally Pro CS7 R215,000
Tiger 1200 XCX VN3 R226,000
Tiger 1200 XCA VS3 R260,000
YAMAHA
PW50 R34,950
TTR50E R34,950
TTR110E R46,950
XT1200Z R224,950
XT1200ZE R249,950
YFM350 Grizzly 2x4 R119,950
YFM350 Grizzly 4x4 R159,950
YFM450 Kodiak 4x4 R179,950
YFM450 Kodiak 4x4 EPS R184,950
YFM700 Grizzly R214,950
YFM700 Grizzly SE R259,950
YFM90R R44,950
YFZ450R R199,950
YFM700 Raptor R199,950
YFM700 Raptor SE R229,950
YZ65 R66,950
YZ85 R75,950
YZ125 R84,950
YZ250 2 Stroke R99,950
YZ250F R129,950
YZ450F R149,950
YZ125X R95,950
YZ250X 2 Stroke R104,950
YZ250FX R129,950
YZ450FX R144,950
www.go-mx.co.za
WR450F R149,950
ZONTES
ZT310-T R77,900
Specialists in motocross gear and accessories
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All pricing correct as at time of publishing, but may vary due to exchange rates etc.
173 Blaauwberg Road, Table View info@go-mx.co.za
079 270 8958
@go_mx @GO.MX.CT
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