RF FEB 2021 ONLINE

www.motomedia.co.za
February 2021
HYPER NAKED
KAWASAKI Z H2
FEBRUARY 2021 RSA R35.00
9 772075 405004
21002
KTM 890
WORLD LAUNCH
BMW
S1000 XR HP
MOTO GP NEWS and more...

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.
SHOEI® NXR BLACK
NEW GRAPHICS AVAILABLE
Photo: R. Schedl
KTM 790 ADVENTURE / R
PHILOSOPHER TC-1
PHILOSOPHER TC-2
PHILOSOPHER TC-5
HARMONIC TC-10
MARQUEZ POWER UP! TC-1
Get your FREE QUICKSHIFTER and CRUISE CONTROL with your new
KTM 790 ADVENTURE and KTM 790 ADVENTURE R
KTM 1290 ADVENTURE / R
Get your FREE TRAVEL PACK ( Quickshifter+,Motor SlipRegulation and Hill Hold Control ) with your new
KTM 1290 ADVENTURE and KTM 1290 ADVENTURE R
STAB TC-4
STAB TC-8
EQUATE TC-10
SHOREBREAK TC-2
ZORK TC-7
THE ESSENCE OF RIDING
Visit your nearest Shoei dealership or contact us on 011 259 7752 or email DanielleH@yamaha.co.za
ADVENTURE MORE
KTM brought out the big guns when considering the most hardcore, long
distance adventurers. They packed 1301 cc, 140 Nm of torque and 160
hp (119 kW) into the world’s most advanced travel enduro chassis. Ready
to take on any terrain, this mile-munching weapon is the ultimate offroad
travel enduro for exploring the trail less traveled and beyond.
Phone 011 462 7796 for your nearest dealer.

Intro. Keeping the wheels turning...
This month has been a bit frenetic to say
the very least - it seems as though - even
after last years lockdown, the motorcycle
industry as a whole took awhile to hit first
and get going.
But our team put fire under saddles and
managed to get together all sorts of
interesting stuff that you need to know - and
indications are that 2021 is going to be great!
Sad is the fact that we know of so many
people who have contracted COVID, are
battling against it and who have lost loved
ones to the disease.
It’s a very real thing. Do the social distancing
thing and look after yourselves.
Of course, the best way to social distance is
on your bike - so go forth and ride a lot!
AND - if YOU own or know of an interesting
bike out there - please get in touch! We’d love
to feature it in the magazine.
Who knows? We might just make you
famous!
Have a great Feburary. Be lekker!
Feedback queries, etc -
foleyg@mweb.co.za
Pic of the month:
FEBRUARY Edition 2021
PUBLISHER:
Glenn Foley
foleyg@mweb.co.za
ADVERTISING AND EDITORIAL:
Sean Hendley
sean@motomedia.co.za
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
Cape Town
Lorna Darol
lorna@motomedia.co.za
PHOTOGRAPHY
Stefan van der Riet
CONTRIBUTORS
Shado Alston
Donovan Fourie
Michelle Leppan
Mieke Oelofse
Kurt Beine
Videos and more
available online...
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ATVS, ROAD RACING, SPORTS BIKES, TOURERS, VINTAGE BIKES, CRUISERS AND HARLEYS
Spring Kits Available
WISECO PISTON KITS Wiseco leads the aftermarket performance kits by producing the
highest quality pistons on the highest quality forgings.
HOTRODS CRANKS AND RODS HOT RODS HAS BEEN MAKING THE BEST AFTERMARKET
CRANKSHAFTS AND CONNECTING RODS SINCE 1993.
KPMI® PRODUCT BRAND COVERAGE INCLUDE:
HARLEY DAVIDSON'S, SPORT BIKES, DIRT BIKES,
ATV/UTV'S, TOURERS, CRUISERS, CUSTOMS AND
CLASSICS
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ENDURO, ATV AND STREET BIKES. WHEEL BEARINGS,
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written permission of the publisher.
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Email:G124@mweb.co.za 011 425 1081/4
www.gameservices.co.za

All the NEWS proudly brought to
you by HJC HELMETS
All the NEWS proudly brought to
you by HJC HELMETS
Tork Craft’s new glove range.
Budget gloves for the work shop, and
offroad riding.
Tork Craft now has a comprehensive range that covers all these
markets at very affordable prices what’s more and they look
pretty cool.
The guys from Tork Craft are avid Motocrossers and they have
been instrumental in developing the kit. The Blue Air Mesh and
the Spandex Red gloves are ideal and on a par with anything
out there. Testers were very impressed, with the range. The
palms are reinforced and padded and the closures are on the
bottom side which makes a lot of sense. One cool thing on the
red ones is the terry cloth on the back of the thumb which is
handy to give your goggles a quick wipe on the fly, or even to
wipe away sweat when you stop for a break.
CAPE TOWN
Sho! Sho! Sho! Cape Town is super busy with more and more motorcycle
stores opening, seemingly almost on a daily basis. Our lady in the Cape,
Lorna, has been run off her feet trying to keep up with everybody. If she has
not made it to you yet and you would like a mention in our magazines please
give her a call or drop her a mail and she will definitely drop in for a chat. Also
ask her about some of our great advertising rates and social media exposure
rates. Here are some of the great bike shops she has visited on the Peninsula
You can contact here on email lorna@motomedia.co.za
They have been designed by multiple SA Motocross legend,
Ryan Hunt, who certainly knows about good gloves after his 30
years of racing and his recent comeback after a 10 year layoff,
to attempt to win 3 SA National titles over 3 decades.
They fit very comfortably, are very reasonably priced and offer
an impressive value for money package. Tork Craft also offer
“Work” and “All Purpose” gloves which are great for anything
from working in the garden, the workshop to working on your
motorcycle, these are made more robustly and offer great
protection and a good grip on tools.
As you may be aware Tork Craft is a leading brand of
accessories in the Vermont Sales operation and are available
at all leading specialist stores countrywide for more information
talk to your retail outlet or
www.vermontsales.co.za -
Trade enquiries welcome
CBR 1000RR-R SP
What you see here is the best of the best, the most
exclusive, feature-rich open-class sportsbike that Honda
has ever built under the CBR banner. Introducing the
CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP. Street legal, but track ready.
The bikes offer a degree of performance and refinement
you’ve likely never experienced - unless you’ve had a
factory ride.Available to only a handful of lucky riders. And
it still offers Honda’s famous CBR refinement, build quality
and rideability.Get ready to find out why world champions
like Marc Marquez ride red, and why you should too.
NOW AVAILABLE

All the NEWS proudly brought to
you by HJC HELMETS
All the NEWS proudly brought to
you by HJC HELMETS
Bike Tyre Warehouse
keeping the wheels turning…
The BTW Group have been busy sourcing stock and securing
deals with international suppliers for a wide range of products
from brake pads, brake disc’s, chain & sprocket kits, batteries,
aftermarket adventure bike accessories, wheel & spoke kits
and a wider range of tyre related accessories.
Boss man Bruce reckons, “… due to the ever growing national
retail foot print we are finding there are different product needs
in different regions, as well as different price scales. So we
have looked at these requirements and based our developing
product ranges on regional market demands.”, basically Bruce
and his team are listening to the buying public and are finding
better ways to best serve the motorcycle market. Head down to
one of their 5 stores around the country, to find the one nearest
to you go to www.biketyrewarehouse.com
Cape Bike Travel - Rentals –
Tours – Workshop,
Triumph Dealer.
Cape Bike Travel has been renting out
motorbikes since 2005. Situated at 125
Buitengracht Street they offer a large fleet of
latest BMW, Harley-Davidson and Triumph
motorcycles for long and short term rental.
Also available for rental are panniers and topboxes,
GPS units as well as rider gear. They
do arrange motorbike tours from 1-14 days
through South Africa and Namibia with different
guided and supported as well as self-guided
options available. They also arrange several
off-road riding courses and track days every
year. The Workshop is open to all makes of
motorbikes and being in the city centre offers
the convenience of a “while-you-work” service to
commuters.
The mechanics have wide experience with all
major brands as well as in racing. The Workshop
does stock a wide variety of spares, tires and
accessories. You can visit Cape Bike Travel at
125 Buitengracht street, Cape Town or you can
give them a call on 021 424 5013 or drop them a
mail at info@capebiketravel.com, They are also
your point of call for anything Triumph in Cape
Town as they are the agents for Triumph on the
Peninsula.
Suzuki Motorcycles South Africa
Prices include VAT. Terms and Conditions Apply.
VISIT YOUR NEAREST
Way_of_Life!_With_Outline
SUZUKI DEALER
www.SuzukiMotorcycles.co.za

All the NEWS proudly brought to
you by HJC HELMETS
All the NEWS proudly brought to
you by HJC HELMETS
Motorcycle World Cape Town:
Motorcycle World is one the oldest and most well know
Motorcycle stores in Cape Town. Established in 1993 and more
than 28 years of experience in the Industry. They claim to have
a huge client base stretching all over South Africa & beyond.
Their clients are like family and have been dealing with them
from Grandfather to Son and now Grandson`s. They offer a
large range of clean pre-owned motorcycles from Sport,
Adventure and Cruisers.
Finance is available through all the major banks with their onsite
F&I. Their store also has a big range of riding gear and apparel
and they have recently added an online store. They have a fully
equipped workshop for all services and repairs and their parts
department carries a wide variety of spares. Situated at 220
Voortrekker Road Parow Cape Town where you are more than
welcome to pop in for a cup of coffee and a chin wag or you can
find them on the net at www.motorcycle-world.co.za you can
also call them on 021-9305917 and chat to their sales
executive Ryan Neves.
No Limit Quads
No Limit Quads is situated in Kuilsriver in the northern suburbs
of Cape Town. It was established in May 2006 by owners Jan
and Salome Du Plessis and continues to be run as a family
business. Although No Limit Quads is a small enterprise it is
driven with a lot of passion and commitment to their customers
as far afield as Namibia. No Limit Quads as the name would
suggest specialises in Quads of all makes and sizes.
As the business and their customer base expanded they had to
cater to a bigger market.
Currently they are a official dealers for South
African Motorcycles (Pty) Ltd, housing brands like BIG BOY,
JONWAY and GOMOTO. They also offer a workshop ready to
work on all makes of motorcycles and quads as well as a wide
array of spares, tyres and consumables. Visit them at 44a Van
Riebeeck Road, Kuilsriver, Cape Town or contact them on
021-9035985 or 0835824947 or e-mail them on
nolimitsquads@mweb.co.za
FLYING BRICK
MOTORCYCLE ACCESSORIES
Why the name Flying Brick?
The story BEHIND the name….
Back in the day, Suzuki, Yamaha, Honda and Kawasaki ALL had
water-cooled 4 cylinder bike motors and BMW was under pressure
to bring the same to its home market (…and the World!)
BMW thus approached Peugeot for help with a car-based 4
cylinder water-cooled motor; Peugeot had an unused development
model sitting ‘on the shelf’, but had no plans for it, BMW
took over the development, and then the designers rotated it 90
degrees to fit into a bike frame! It was NOT what the Germans
were wanting, was something of an “ugly duckling” and was
‘affectionately’ known as the “FLYING BRICK” … OK, UN-affectionally!
Chris owned a Café’d BMW K100, the original ‘Flying Brick’, so
the name has always resonated with him. At the same time he
developed a luggage bag, dual compartments; a mentor helping
out with design input commented it looked like an Air Brick
(used in building…), and again, the name ‘Flying Brick’ stuck.
Why open a motorcycle accessory store?
They never actually wanted to Retail because “Its bloody hard
work!” Chris, however needed an outlet to display his newly
designed Flying Brick Luggage System and an opportunity presented
itself inside a Yamaha store in Cape Town.
No sooner had he started; when other requests came in for
alternative soft luggage items and accessories and the need to
supply, and just maybe be better and bigger was triggered! So
the little monster was born and 9 months later, they then moved
into their own premises; surrounded by complimentary businesses
and the area is now affectionately known as Gasoline
Alley. 10 years on, the business employs 8 people, and it has
expanded twice since it started. This is their 10th full year in
business, and to celebrate ,they will be re-designing their logo
for some products/items, and this redesigned logo should provide
some smiles/laughs! Watch out for it around mid-year!
They have a FITMENT CENTRE where they fit whatever they
sell, they have a qualified motorcycle electrician on call for
installation of after-market electrical/electronic items, such as
indicators, hooters, GPS’s, etc. They cater primarily for the
Adventure Market, with some overflow into road/scooter and
commuters.
They are also an EXPERIENTIAL Store: you can TRY the spotlights
out, you can borrow a windscreen spoiler for 72 hours,
free-of-charge, you can try out their comfort seat cushion – their
emphasis is on DO touch!
If you are on the peninsula experience Flying Brick Motorcycle
Accessories for yourself at 8 Shropshire Street, Paarden Eiland,
Cape Town info@flyingbrick.co.za www.flyingbrick.co.za

All the NEWS proudly brought to
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Craig’s Motorcycle Fitment Centre – Parow.
“The trusted name in motorcycle tyres in Parow.” This shop is massive with a
huge range of accessories, parts and a proper workshop. These guys Carry a
huge stock of tyres across all the popular brands. They fit and balance all tyres
purchased from them for free using the correct tools to make sure all nuts and
bolts are re-torqued properly and they include free chain cleaning, lubing and
tensioning as part of the deal. Their friendly and knowledgeable staffare also
happy to give you a free assessment on the condition of your chain, sprockets,
brake pads and discs and etc and they are also quite happy to source
whatever you are looking for.
Visit them at 79 Voortrekker rd, Parow, Cape Town or give them a call on
021 939 8916.
BMW Motorrad
West Rand.
S1000 XR , 2020
3 000km Tob Box, Radiator Guards
R259 000
R9T 2020
50km
R145 000
C400X, 2019
8 000km
R89 000
Mad Macs opens a
second store in Cape Town
This is Mad Macs’ second dealership in the Western Cape, having
branched out from Somerset West to Cape Town. They are very active in
the racing scene and they organize and participate in lots of adventure
rides. Led by some industry legends Rob Cragg, Stewart Thom, David
McFadden & Harry Clifton.
Official Dealers for ‘Suzuki’, ‘SYM’ & ‘Kawasaki’; They also trade in
Pre-Owned motorcycles, do scooter rentals, sellaccessories, spares and
parts and have a very experienced mechanic managing their Workshop.
Shop 10, 2 Long Street, Cape Town, City centre
021 488 9997 wafieka@madmacs.co.za or k@MadMacsCityCentre
S1000RR Motorsport 2020
3 000km - Akrapovic Slip on
R339 000
C400X 2020
3 000km
R109 000
HONDA VFR1200X ADVENTURE, 2013
56 000km - Top Box - Panniers
R99 000
G310 GS 2018
2400km
R75 000
R1250 GS Exclusive, 2019
13 500km - Lower Crash Bars, Full
Exhaust, Headlight Guard, Spotlights
R259 000
K1600GT, 2012
36 000km - Top Box
R145 000
R1250 GS Adventure, 2020
8 500km - HP Rally
R279 000
R1250 R 2020 HP
2 500km - 2 to Choose from
R209 000
R1250 RS, 2019
2,500km
R209 000
R1250 GS Adventure, 2019
65 00km - HP Rally, Power Protection
Plates
R215 000
F850 GS Adventure 2020
1 700km - Nav ready
R195 000
S1000RR, M WRAP 2020
2,000km
R309 000

All the NEWS proudly brought to
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QUATTRO TECHNIC MOTORCYCLES
His name is James Mundey, and he is a lifelong biker, who built
his first motorcycle engine thirty years ago as a school kid. He
initially qualified as a Porsche technician but later moved into the
Harley-Davidson realm thirteen years ago where he qualified as a
factory trained Harley-Davidson Master Technician.
As we are all too well aware, Covid 19 brought forth many
challenges in working environments and in our lives. People and
businesses went through tough times and made some drastic
changes. Ultimately, for James, it was to step away from
dealership life and into his own business. The next step was how
and where. He eventually decided to join forces with a lifelong
friend and fellow ex Porsche technician and successful car
workshop owner Kobus. Quattro Technic is a specialist Audi
& VW workshop with a subdivision, Carrera Technic which
specializes in Porsche. So a few months ago he joined in and
established Quattro Technic Motorcycles within the company
as a specialist Harley-Davidson workshop with focus on quality
workmanship at competitive pricing. They do also work on most
other brands of motorcycles as well but specialise in Harleys.
James aims to provide quality service while keeping a close and
personal relationship with customers. Give him a call on 078 521
8572 when you next need to service or repair your pride and joy.
Guzzi, Aprilia now in Cape Town:
Italian Motorcycle Importers have opened their new Lifestyle
store on the boundary of Milnerton and Montague Gardens.
They’ve created a unique concept of combining their love for
motorcycle’s at their new Aprilia and Moto Guzzi Dealership,
with a great meeting place where you can enjoy a true Italian
culinary experience in their authentic Italian deli / pizzeria which
serves awesome wood fired pizza’s and a range of other culinary
delights.
All the NEWS proudly brought to
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Pocket Bikes for your Man Cave
Now here is a very cool little something, something for your Man Cave. The guys at Pocket Bikes down in Cape Town have a mate
that can custom paint any of the pocket bikes to any livery you could ever imagine, obviously for a little bit of extra cash on top of
the purchase price. So if you want a Rossi Replica or a mini version Binders bike in your pube… give them a shout.
From what we have seen, the quality is superb and the pricing does seem very reasonable.
Donovan also imports a bunch of go faster bits for these little pocket bikes. For more info:
www.pocketbikesa.co.za they deliver nationally.
All this whilst being surrounded by their own version of
motorcycle art- both on wheels and on the walls. You don’t even
need to be a biker to join them, or even remotely interested in
biking It’s a great spot to kill some time. They are open 7 days
a week and it’s a great place to watch live SBK or Moto GP on
Sundays - normally accompanied by a lunch time special.
In their workshop, technician Brendan Schulz has a longstanding
love for the Italian brands of motorcycles. The aim at
their workshop is for customers to bring their prized motorcycles
and enjoy an “open” workshop policy experience (without holding
up Brendan!!!). This way you’ll get to see the naked details of
your bike being treated and worked on, while enjoying an
espresso. They also have a “pre-owned” section that offers consignment
sales services and retails of all brands of motorcycles.
But they insist that the bikes need to be very, very well loved.
Go visit them at Shop 11 – 13 Marconi Center, 460 Koeberg Rd,
Milnerton, Cape Town or give them a call on 021 206 5034.
Wrench Monkey Cape Town times two.
This is a father & son business run by Grant & William Rossouw. They opened their bike
shop a little over 7 years ago fuelled, they say by a passion for bikes & the love of everything
bike. They are based in Cape Town Southern Suburbs on two separate sites to service all
their clients.
Wrench Monkey Bike Sales & Accessories is at 460 Main Road Lakeside Cape Town and
you can call William on 061 658 7121. Wrench Monkey Service & Repairs, Bike Customs &
Engineering is at 7 Celie Road Retreat CapeTown and Grant is available on 074 361 0546.
Qualified mechanics & engineers, they love their Custom Bike’s at Wrench Monkey and If
you can imagine it they would love to build it for you .If it’s a Cafe Racer, Tracker, Chopper or
full Bike Restoration you are looking for – these are the guys to chat to in The Cape.
www.wrenchmonkeyworkshop.co.za
Email: wrenchmonkeyworkshop@gmail.com

HYPER
NAKED
The Kawasaki Z H2.
You need to ride it to understand…
We often say that a good motorcycle needs to move your soul. Not only your
body. Kawasaki’s ZH2 does just that and then some. It’s a fearsome
competitor in the Hyper bike stakes and yet can be oh so civilized to ride. Our
lot had the opportunity to give this bike a good thrashing. And we frikken loved
every second!
By Glenn, Sean and Kyle…
Pics By Stefan.
If you are a regular reader of this here quality publication, you’ll know that we have
ridden and tested this bike before – and we’ve included it in some of our naked
features. For this one, we did what most people would do – and took the bike for a
proper spin on all the fast, flowing back roads that we know. Roads where we hope
like crazy that the constabulary does not know about – because if they were to catch
us – we reckon it could get really expensive.
Where do you take a bike like this to stretch her legs then?
The roads between Benoni out to Bronkhorstpruit are just perfect. Still in great
condition and if you get on to some of the side roads they are still quiet, safe and you
can wring a bike without scaring the shorts of other road users.
We set out early morning in the middle of the week. What a pleasure! The roads were
quiet – just us and the whistle of one of the fastest production motorcycles known to
man.

Whistle?
Yup! Standing on the side of the road taking pics – you
hear the supercharged whistle long before the soft hum
of the 1000cc engine. It’s quite weird – futuristic and
ever so cool!
The H2 Naked features the same 998cc supercharged
powerplant as the H2 SX line, with a few notable
changes to fit this naked bike application. An all-new
chassis, comfortable ergonomics, and an updated
electronics package is what makes this bike so user
friendly.
Changes to the engine from the H2 SX gives the bike
more low-end and mid-range oomph. On this one,
Kawasaki engineers developed new model-specific fuel
maps, and an entirely new exhaust system with longer
header pipes, that prioritize low-end and mid-range
power whilst still meeting Euro 5 emissions standards.
The final piece of the puzzle is shorter final-drive
gearing.
Ride-by-wire throttle tech allows for three preset and
one customizable ride mode. Once behind the
handlebar of the Z H2, riders will have the choice of
Sport, Road, Rain, and Rider modes all displayed on
the really neat TFT display. This compact TFT is shared
across several Kawasaki models. It works and looks the
part, relaying everything you’d ever need to know at a
glance, in or out of direct light. Racers will love the lean
angle indicator.
The modes adjust the levels of traction control, throttle
response, and all other electronic aids. Sport and Road
share a throttle map, which is a sporty pairing well
suited with the H2’s personality. TC is bumped down to
the lowest setting in Sport, giving you plenty of leeway;
Road reigns it in a bit. Rain cuts power and softens the
throttle considerably, while also jacking up TC to its
maximum settings.
Rider mode allows you to customize the Z to taste. As
linear and easy to control as the supercharged engine
is, it’s still good to have state of the art technology
watching over your shoulder. Standard features assisted
by the six-axis Bosch IMU include cornering ABS,
three-level lean-angle-detecting traction control, wheelie
control, slide control, cruise control, and launch
control. Also, three power modes are available—
Full (full power),
Middle (75 percent power), and Low (50 percent) to let
you tailor the maximum output to your needs.
Naturally, we rode her mostly in full power mode…
You’d expect a bike like this all to be about superbike
speed and scrunched up ergonomics. But it’s not. The
Z H2’s upright position make riding around town, hitting
the freeways, or even the track, a relaxed affair. The
bars are noticeably taller than the H2 SX platform,
creating a sporty, yet neutral riding position. The seat
height is accessible for most, and we could all get our
boots on the ground. It’s actually a really comfortable
motorcycle – that if you have the means you could use it
all day every day. But like we say – you need to ride it to
understand.
In comparison to the H2 SX, the Z H2 has more snap.
It’s so easy to hoik the wheel while pulling out of a
corner, this bike can be manic, naked hooligan.
Riding the bike, the Z H2’s supercharged powerplant is
incredibly smooth. It does not hesitate. It does not rattle
or vibrate.
The gearbox on the Z H2 feels perfect,
with its precise, easy shifting.
You’ll never need to use light clutch
unless you’re coming to a stop, thanks
to the quickshifter that works well in either
direction. Kawasaki says that you
should only utilize it when the engine is
spinning above 2500 rpm. On this bike,
that’s easy.
It delivers a smooth, refined ride. This
bike proves that 197 horsepower at
10,500 rpm and 101 ft-lbs of torque at
9500 rpm can be calm. Power is everywhere,
and it builds in a
predictable, linear fashion. Like a Siren
of old, it can lull you into a false serene
bubble – until you need to open that
throttle and the unbelievable acceleration
will stretch your arms and crack
your face into a smile as you scream
with joy into your helmet.
Fully adjustable Showa suspension
keeps things in check. There is a
43mm SFF-BP fork with a linkage-assisted
shock. Together, they do well to
soak up the rough stuff. The setup on
this bike leaned towards comfortable.
For what we did it felt really, really
good. The blend of a good chassis,
excellent suspension and great tyre
choice in the Pirelli Diablo Rosso 3
rubber that is fitted standard inspires
much confidence in the rider. Just so
well balanced – and although it’s fast
as F… it just feels so lekker.
Slowing things down swiftly are dual
Brembo 4-piston M4.32 calipers clamping
onto the 320mm floating rotors.
Adjustable levers are also in the mix.
Out back, a dual-piston caliper grabs
onto a 250mm rotor and has an equally
good feel. No complaints here, but we
wonder why Kawasaki has not fitted
braided brake lines on such a high
spec bike?
Yes, the Z H2 is as happy plodding
along through suburbia as it is running
at flat taps through the Karoo.
We have to be honest. We ran out of
guts and road long before the bike ran
out of steam…
Sean Says:
I really do like crazy motorcycles, bikes
that you just know that if you
disrespect it, will kick you solidly in the
nuts and the Kawasaki Z H2 supercharged
hypernaked is possibly the
most insane naked bike out there.
Bolting a supercharger to an already
insanely fast 1000cc motor and then
sticking it in an unfaired street fighter
style bike sounds like an idea born out
of snorting way too many coffee beans,
but it really works and works extremely
well.

Initially I was not keen to ride any of the Kawasaki H2’s
because I had watched the video of Kenan Sofuoglu
breaking a world record on the Kawasaki Ninja H2R over the
Osman Gazi Bridge, Turkey. He took the bike from 0-400kmh
in a record breaking 26 seconds … I know myself and know
that I would try some foolish stunt like that, so I have avoided
the H2 and the H2-R on purpose. However, when the SX,
(touring version), came out and I gave it a go and was mildly
underwhelmed by it. Yes it was frikkin’ fast and super sexy,
but it was too refined for me, too polite and had too many
good manners and just did everything so very well, but …
you know what I mean.
The Z-H2 is a different beast all together now. Firstly, for
such a compact bike it is surprisingly comfortable even for
someone of my length and weight. I love naked bikes, I love
being able to look down and see the front wheel, I love the
feeling of freedom of the wind on me and particularly love the
open, exposed look of naked bikes, they just look meaner
and tougher than fully faired bikes. Hitting the starter button
on the Z and hearing that engine come to life you just know
you are about to have a lot of fun. Blip the throttle a bit too
enthusiastically and the Squirrel mincer will whistle at you
as a warning of what is about to happen. Clicking it into first
gear I pulled away slowly a little bit nervous about the front
coming because I can’t wheelie for sh!t and the pleas of our
publisher to please behave still ringing in my ears.
Once I got moving at speed I rolled on the gas, knocked
the Z into 2nd using the powershifter, then 3rd all the while
laughing like a demented Bond villain in my helmet. Fortunately
we were on a fairly deserted road, because once that
Supercharger kicked in the Z suddenly became the
Millennium Falcon, turning the landscape into a blur and
narrowing the road ahead down to a pin prick. Then there
was no more road and I had to make a plan to bring myself
and the Z to a stop and preferably both at the same time.
Grabbing a handful of brake, stomping on the brake pedal
and kicking down through the gears with the powershifter
the Z … and I came to a very elegant stop. In my mind to the
onlookers it must have looked like the ‘Back to the future’
DeLorean appearing out of nowhere and screeching to a halt
with noise coming from the supercharger. The rest of the ride
was spent playing with the supercharger and diving in and
out of corners and just generally being a hooligan.
Looking around the cockpit everything is very easy to understand
and use. The TFT screen is a neat compact unit that
displays all the pertinent info you need at a quick glance and
is easy to read, even in bright sunlight and without my
reading glasses. As I mentioned earlier, the Z is very
comfortable with not a huge amount of stress on wrists,
shoulders and lower back. The lack of any significant form of
wind protection was not a problem to me, besides the
aforementioned reasons, I also like the fact that the wind
creates a cushion under you taking even more weight and
stress off your wrist, shoulders and lower back. Yes it does
possibly slow you down a bit, but that is a good thing because
you can get yourself into some quite precarious
situations if you become too relaxed on the Z-H2. Flicking
through the electronics package you can feel definite
difference between the rider modes, going from ‘OH MY
FFffuuu … GOSH!!” to a sensible day to day commuter in
rain mode. The Kawasaki Traction Control system is equally
as effective and the powershifter is incredibly smooth at any
speed or load on the motor and as I said the brakes are very
good and really up to the task at hand. And in parting, YES!
It did move my soul.
You really need to ride one to understand…
At your Kawasaki dealer.
KAWASAKI Z H2
Engine 998cc, Transverse 4 cylinder
Bike Specs...
DOHC; 16-valves; Supercharger Cebtrifugal; Scroll-type
Max Power 197hp / 147 kw @ 11000rpm
Torque 137Nm @ 8500rpm
Transmission 6-speed; Return; Dog-ring
Final Drive Chain
Suspension Front Showa SSF BP Forks
Suspension Rear Showa Shock - Uni Trak
Seat Height 830mm
Wheelbase 1455 mm
Fuel Capacity 19 Litres
Wet Weight 239kg

harp
JUST GOT SHARPER
More cubes, power and tech for 2021 KTM 890 Duke:
The other evening we were invited along to the launch of the 2021
890 Duke. Not a traditional launch in the usual sense of the word, but
a digital launch where KTM presented the bike on a digital platform
riding the twisties in what looked like Spain.
It looks like it’s going to be a good one – and when it gets here, we’ll
grab one and take it out for a solid spin…

About the Bike:
KTM has transplanted the motor and much of the firepower from the 890
Duke R into the 790 Duke, creating a new standard 890 Duke and really
mixing it up in the middleweight road bike class.
The Austrian firm entered middleweight naked battle in 2017 after years
of domination by bikes like Yamaha’s MT range, bringing superbike levels
of tech to more affordable bikes.Three years on, there are a bunch of new
bikes fighting it out in this segment, so it was time for KTM to update things.
KTM seems to have delivered a reason to smile, announcing the new 2021
890 Duke as the replacement for the outgoing 790.
It’s positioned as a slightly more street-oriented (and more comfortable)
scalpel than its 890 R sibling. The 890 Duke sports the 890 R’s 889cc parallel
twin that KTM says is good for 10 more horsepower and almost 4 more
pound-foot of torque than the 789cc mill that powered the 790 Duke. It now
shares the 890 R’s 6D lean angle sensor to complement its cornering ABS
(with Supermoto ABS mode), two-axis MTC (traction control), Sport, Street,
and Rain ride modes, and optional MSR (controlled engine-braking). The
entry-level 890 Duke features a TFT display
Optional equipment includes a Track ride mode with nine-level adjustable
MTC, launch control, and disabled wheelie control, and Quickshifter+ for
clutchless up- and downshifting.
The biggest change is the motor, which has grown in both bore and stroke to
799cc from 889cc. The result is a decent growth in power (just over 8bhp) as
well as modest bump in torque (up 3.7lb.ft to 68lb.ft).
Just like the growth from 790 to 890 on the Adventure, this increase in
displacement has also been met with an increase in rotating mass in the
engine. KTM says that this helps to smooth out the throttle response at low
rpm and improves cornering stability through increased inertia.
Helping you bring all this to a stop is an updated Brembo braking system
that features new calipers and pads for improved stopping power. The
300mm dual floating front discs benefit from what KTM describes as
“improved” four-piston calipers, and though the 43mm WP Apex USD
cartridge-style fork contains new, lighter springs and a new base valve for
better high-speed damping, it is still not adjustable. The WP Apex rear shock
remains adjustable for preload only.
Other changes include improved suspension in the form of 43mm WP Apex
forks and Continental ContiRoad tyres which, KTM says provide excellent
wet weather performance and - warm up quickly.
Last but not least it’s worth noting that KTM have brought the 890 Duke
bang up to date and it meets the latest restrictive Euro5 standards, while
keeping the dry weight to the exact same figure as it was before.
The bike arrives in dealers soon, and will give extra options for any
middleweight motorcycle buyer.
It sure looks very cool!
www.ktm.com

Keeping
the old wheels
turning…
The other day we were loafing about as we often
do when we got word that Jaco Gous would be
out testing his classic GSX-R’s at The Redstar
Raceway. If you grew up in the 80’s or 90’s you’ll
appreciate how good these bikes were. We
asked if we could pop in and have a chat about
them.
Jaco and his Brother-in-law Michael Smit have
a long racing pedigree – from years of national
supermotords and the ZX10 Cup. Jaco was just
about ready to call it quits when he got word about
the classic series, the CSRA and his curiosity was
piqued:
A fun series that’s affordable – and something new.

This led to all sorts of enquiries and the
procurement of a rather used GSXR 750 Slingshot
from Gary at Viper bikes. Jaco’s dad Kobus, a
medical doctor by profession and an avid enthusiast
was tasked with getting the bike race ready for
the Formula 1 class.
Kobus started in bikes with names like Dave
Hiscock way back in 1976. He became the
technical consultant for what MSA was back then
and he helped to write the white book. Being a
doctor, he was also roped in to the medical commission.
His passion is building bikes – and he is known as
one of the top ECU Flashing experts in SA working
with top motorcycle peeps like Clubhouse Motorcycles
Alain and Aerocanon’s Steve - so he knows
his way around a motorcycle.
We chatted about the bikes and you can see the
enthusiasm coming through.
These are GSXR 750 Slingshot chassis fitted with
1100 engines.
Chassis:
• The guys like the 750 chassis because
the swingarm is shorter and it has a dif
ferent fork rake to the 1100 chassis which
results in sharper, more agile handling.
• The bikes use longer 1100 Suzuki forks.
• The bikes roll on early model ZX10
wheels.
• Both are fitted with steering dampers.
• Rear shocks are from the early K7 and
K8.
• Donovan from ACC billet is responsible
for the rear sets, the shock adaptors and
the triple clamps.
• Older bikes need a bit more work and the
tanks were starting to corrode so Kobus
had the insides epoxy lined to prevent
gunk from the tank ruining play.
• Standard ZX10 brakes and calipers on
both bikes with Brembo levers and
reservoirs.
Engine and performance:
• The engines are GSXR 1100 slingshot oil
cooled mills. Suzuki’s 1100 Bandit came
with the same engine.
• Kobus leave the bottom ends alone. The
only performance part is a slipper clutch.
On the one bike – Kobus has actually
had an extra spacer made in order to
house a heavy duty clutch of his own
making.
• The barrel is bored to 81mls – 1216cc’s.
They have found this to be a very reliable
performance configuration.
• The cylinder head is where the magic
happens. Anthony Taylor skims and flows
them – and they have worked
a bit of magic on the Cams. But Kobus
points out that the standard cams are
very good – and they have learnt to de
gree them to perform at different
altitudes.
• Fuel is supplied by 40 mm Smooth Bore
Carbs. One bike is fitted with
Mikuni’s. The other is lucky enough to
have a set of Yoshi TMR’s that are just a
little bit more trick.
If you rode or raced in the 90’s you’ll
know that those were absolutely the
carbs to own. The ram induction pipes
are still fitted but because there is no
airbox – cool air is forced from the
front to the back of the cylinders.
• The standard oil cooling on
the GSXR’s was not up to
scratch – so Kobus
has mounted two separate
oil coolers
– one for
the cylinder head – and the
other for the barrel
downwards.
• Total loss Ignition replaces
the bikes standard charging
system.
Basically this means that the bikes
alternator is removed removing any
excess drag from the engines.
• The exhausts are manu
factured locally by Stealth
pipes in Pretoria.
The cost to build a bike like this, including
purchase works out to around
150k – and Kobus assures us that
you can build them for cheaper.
“There are so many guys with bits
lying around that you don’t have to
spend a fortune to go racing” he says.
“And I have to compliment Suzuki.
We have never had a hassle sourcing
new parts – even though these bikes
are now getting on a bit.”
Jaco and his Brother-in-law Michael

And they go as good as they look.
They tell us that the lap times are comparable with
modern superbikes. Jaco has managed a two minute
flat at Redstar. AJ Venter pulled 1.59 on a similar
machine… that’s good enough for a fourth place in the
ZX10 cup. On 30 year old motorcycles.
Sadly for them on the day of testing the weather came
in and Redstar made the call to cancel practice. We got
there really early to get started and the guys were at
least lucky enough to get in an hour of riding…
These old bike sound amazing – and it was so cool to
watch them out there.
One and then 2:
“The plan was to only build one bike – but a visit from
the UK’s Don Hill, who was also instrumental in
developing the bikes led to two. The plan was to take
part in the world championship classic endurance race
– but that has been postponed. Hopefully it will happen
later this year. If a guy comes to race from abroad, they
can use one of our bikes. When we go there – then they
supply us with a similar bike” says Jaco.
But we are going to race them locally in the local CSRA.
About CSRA
South Africa enjoyed a “heyday” of production bike
racing in the 1980’s and the equipment that this was
based upon remains reasonably affordable today. There
was a “sea change” of superbike specs between the
mainly air-cooled bikes of the late 70’s and early 80’s
when the oil cooled Suzuki GSXR burst onto the scene
around 1985/6. Many of our members run both 750 and
1100 “Gixxers” of this period.
As a result of this phenomenon, and the performance
gap it entailed, we have adopted 2 racing categories for
the CSRA:
Formula 1 – Bikes from 1984 – 1989
Formula 2 – Bikes from 1975 – 1983
Close racing, full grids and friendly pits at the best
racing circuits in the country offer riders and spectators
a memorable taste of racing from the past. Motorcycle
racing in any class is immeasurable safer on today’s
closed circuits than it was in the past. Racing on closed
circuits still lives on and there’s no shortage of brave
riders willing to risk it all in their quests for glory.
The CSRA was formed by like-minded potential
competitors, who, in the main, prepared racing bikes for
the Annual SA “TT Races”. The logic was to organise a
series of races in SA that would culminate with the TT
races each year.
Should sufficient members come forward wishing to
race older machinery this will be accommodated, but
with rider safety coming first.
They have tried to be as non-prescriptive as possible
with regards to the technical regulations, allowing
members to fettle their machines as best as practical,
taking into consideration the age of their machinery,
once again safety considerations upper mind.
The Association has embarked upon efforts to try to
pass on skills to the next generation of potential bike
racers, partnering with SA tracks with education
initiatives involving youngsters from townships, where
they would not generally have such opportunities.
Sponsorship efforts linked to this project are on-going.
More info – classicsuperbikeracing.co.za

ADVERTORIAL
Triumph South Africa
committed to the S.A. Motorcycle market..
In the turmoil of the past 10 months or so there have been
very few good news stories going around. Amongst all the
doom and gloom there is a little company quietly and fastidiously
just getting on with business and steadily getting
stronger each day. Bruce Allen and his team at Triumph
South Africa’s head office and flagship store have
recently gone through a major revamp of the premises and
we popped in for a quick chat and a look around. They truly
do have good reason to be proud. Here are some
interesting stats about Triumph SA, they have doubled their
market share in Johannesburg in the 500cc plus category
since taking over the brand. Within 5 months of opening
their Cape Town store in August 2020, they are back up
to the same market share for 2020 which Triumph had
previously in the Cape. It has been just on 11 months since
launching the all-new Triumph Rocket 3 and an
unbelievable 50 exceptionally happy Rocket 3 owners are
enjoying their machines. Largely thanks to our great feature
on the bikes in RideFast Magazine. The new Tiger 900
(MCN 2020 Bike of the Year), is also seeing impressive
sales – we hope you read our features in Dirt And Trail
Magazine.
On Triumph’s global customer satisfaction ratings, Triumph
SA is proud to be rated in a close second out of Triumph’s
26 global markets. This is testament to their truly customer
centric approach to doing business. In a retracting market
in 2020, Triumph has managed to maintain their sales volumes.
And how have they managed to do that? Well, since
the business started, there has had virtually no change to
the friendly faces. The team has a great working relationship
with each other and with their customers, creating a
welcoming, familiar and friendly environment. Bruce says,
“You will be warmly greeted the minute you walk through
the door by one of the team, they may even catch you in
the parking lot. We have a strong team of skilled, qualified
and attentive technicians in the workshop keeping each and
every Triumph in top running condition”.
Triumph’s steady progress is largely due to truly loyal
customer support, the opening of Cape Town and some
exciting new models. Triumph JHB and Cape Town have a
demonstrator bike for every single model in the line - bums
in saddles sell bikes, and every single one of the brand passionate
team believe that once you have ridden a Triumph
you will be hooked. Couple that with good value for money
and better pricing than you might expect for their bikes
and services, and you have a winning formula. Walking
around the newly revamped store you get a sense that it is
designed to make the shopping experience so much easier
with the clothing and protective wear being incorporated
into the motorcycle sales floor. The brand, being premium is
now being represented correctly, yet it still has that Triumph
familiarity and passion. A lot of brands make the mistake of
becoming too cold and sanitised when they revamp or
modernise their corporate identity or upgrade their dealerships.
Bruce as CEO of Triumph South Africa sits on the sales
floor in a glass walled office and the door wide open and
welcoming, the new workshop is also walled in glass so
you can sit and watch them work on your bike.
Leather couches, TV’s, a well-stocked fridge, great coffee,
free WiFi and a long table to sit and work at while waiting
for bike to be serviced, encourage you to park off for a
bit and just absorb the atmosphere and the essence of
Triumph.
Get down to the corner of South & Dartfield roads Eastgate
Ext 13 in Sandton and experience it all for yourself.
They also have a very slick online apparel store at www.
triumph-store.co.za if you are a bit too far away for a quick
pop in, otherwise give them a call, their number is super
easy.
011 and a lot of 4’s ... 011 444 4444 ...

Triumph
Speed Triple 1200 RS

Moto Guzzi
Celebrates 100 Year Anniversary with Special Models
Pics by Meghan McCabe
This one is the The Moto Guzzi V7 Carbon…
2021 is an important time for Moto Guzzi as it celebrates its 100th birthday. A century of tradition, passion, great
commercial and sporting success; One hundred years of great motorcycles that have always been built in Mandello
del Lario. Since 1921, these have been Moto Guzzi values.
With continuous production since 1921, Moto Guzzi has been wowing the biker world with its innovations. Started
by 3 aircraft pilots in Italy, Moto Guzzi draws upon its aeroplane heritage even today with its use of aircraft engine
inspired heron head pistons.

We are told these pistons draw upon the history and
heritage of the Moto Guzzi rotary WWI and WWII
fighter engines with flat heads for maximum low RPM
torque. In fact, the first Moto Guzzi V-Twin engines
were “cut” from these very same rotary
aviation engines to create motorcycle engines.
From the first bike to reach the Arctic Circle in the
20’s to the racing successes of the 1930’s such as
the 1935 Isle of Man TT. To developing 4-stroke
engines in the 1940’s and even a V8 engine in the
1950’s.
Every time we take out one of these V7’s, without fail some old
timer will come wandering over and spend an hour reminiscing
about back in the day when he was still riding or some youngster
or bunch of youngsters will crowd around it with camera’s
out using words like “cool” or “sick” and etcetera.
Even the young ladies come over to say hello and have their
pic taken with the bike.
Like I said …
“The epitome of cool”.
You too can own a little bit of Moto Guzzi history.
www.italianmi.co.za
Moto Guzzi’s served in WWII as well on the front lines
during that time. In the 1960’s the iconic transverse
V-Twin was introduced and continuously developed
and is still found in today’s newest Moto
Guzzi bikes.
The 1970’s brought about even more innovation with
the 850 Le Mans and “small block” gyroscope effect
engine. In the 80’s, motorcycle company Benelli
acquired Moto Guzzi and sold to Aprilia in the 2000’s
with Aprilia investing billions into the company before
the company stumbled and Ducati stepped in to buy
Moto Guzzi, along with Kymco and BRP but the
ultimate owner of Moto Guzzi would be Piaggio in
2004.
Late 2008 brought about the classic Moto Guzzi
models we know today.
To celebrate, for 2021 Moto Guzzi has produced a
limited series of their models in a special Centennial
Livery, which will be available on V7, V9 and V85 TT.
The local Guzzi Importers IMI, hope to host a centenary
ride soon. We will keep you posted – if everyone
drags out their old Guzzi’s, it will be quite something
to take part in.
To celebrate the milestone, Sean Hendley took the
Limited Edition V7 Carbon for a ride.
This bike is the definition of “Old School Cool”. It still
looks and feels like an old 80’s bike when I was a
teenager, but just sooo much cooler in its blacked out
and red paint job. It is undeniably Italian with form
taking precedence over function, you have to ride one
to understand, but that has always been the Guzzi
way and that is what makes them so
appealing to ride.
The V7 is not fast by any stretch of the imagination,
nor is it a track or mountain pass carving weapon.
What it is however, is the epitome of ‘Cool’ or ‘Suave’.
This is the bike you trundle along on to your favourite
sidewalk Cafe or breakfast run venue and strike a
pose and wait for everyone to pull out their
smartphone camera’s. It is nostalgic to ride as well,
sitting in the breeze with the 750cc V-twin throbbing
along between your legs, its single analogue/digital
display giving you all the basic info you need. The
sunshine on your face, the wind in your beard, (in
my case anyway), and bugs in your teeth astride an
ultra-cool retro bike built for the modern day rider.
We did crank it over in a couple of corners and twist
its ear a bit on the straights and yes it does get
along quite enthusiastically and is fun in the bends,
particularly when the motor tries to stand you up in a
left hander or push you further down in a right hand
corner, but that is why we love Guzzi’s.

Suzuki’s
Bruiser Cruiser
Words: Sean Hendley;
Pics: Stefan vd Riet (Black Rock CS)
Sean gets his mitts on Suzuki’s mega chopper and
shares his thoughts…
Honestly, I am quite embarrassed to admit that I have
never ridden a Suzuki M109R Boulevard before, don’t
know why… I just never had the opportunity I suppose
and unknowingly my life has be lacking this little bit of
pure bliss.
I think my ‘spirit animal’ is a grumpy bad ass biker that
moonlights as a front man for hard rock band because
swinging my leg over and dropping into the saddle and
feeling that big V-Twin growl into life through some very
load and throaty pipes I felt like ‘Big Dad Ritch’ of Texas
Hippie Coalition and spent the rest of the day singing,
“♪Well I guess you’ve heard about it ‘ I’m pissed off and
mad about it ‘let me scream and shout about it ♪”
Within 30 seconds I understood why there are so many
of these Bad Boys on the road, it is loud, brash and in
your face with such a road presence that all other traffic
merely slinks out of your way.

Or that is the way I felt riding it anyway.
The big Suz isn’t all show and no go, yank on the
throttle and this big MoFo snaps off the line with
alarming alacrity that catches you almost unawares as
you claw to keep a grip on the bars.
The 1800cc’s of Japanese Twin tech just explodes into
life and accelerates at eye watering pace.
Fortunately it is a long and heavy beast so, even though
the forks stretch out a bit the front wheel stays firmly
planted on terra firma while it warps the landscape
into a blur. Several Tupperware torpedo’s were properly
rattled not being able to keep up with the massive
Boulevard between traffic lights, where the 109 takes
off straight and true because of its mass and length,
they all end up pointing their front wheels at the Angels.
Long sweeping bends are the Boulevards natural
habitat, admittedly the really tight stuff does get it a bit
out of shape and grinds it foot pegs into the tarmac with
an impressive display of sparks and howling steel.
But get it up straight, tuck in like a Hidden Dragon,
Crouching Tiger behind the bar give it big horns and
suddenly you are aboard a manually guided cruise
missile and passing the 200kmh mark with stupid ease,
I eventually saw 225kmh flying past the other bikes on
the ride with us very much to the bewilderment of the
other riders.
This is INSANE! It is after all – a Cruiser? Right?
There was not even a twitch or anything to suggest that
the Boulie might not be meant to be ridden this hard,
just the pure exhilaration roaring along at mad speeds
astride an-other worldly creation. Man I just love Hot
Rod motorbikes, they really to appeal to the most primal
part of my soul and make me feel like the king of the
world.
For a big bike the handling is that good.
Slowing this monstrosity down to civilised speeds and
sitting back and admiring our beautiful countryside doesn’t
make it any more conservative or turn it into a fading wall
flower.
The big 1786cc motor still grumbles loudly through the
throaty pipes this particular unit was fitted with, but it
does become a bit calmer. More of a hard rock ballad than
thrash metal, relaxing in the big comfy seat and just feeling
the essence of this bike throb through you. The sitting
position has a bit of a lean forward bias that just makes
you want to crank on the gas but is more than comfortable
enough the wile away the hours in the saddle crossing
your favourite desert.
I do think I would like to ride this bike through the Karoo
and then down the length of the West Coast with a little
detour along Clarens drive before turning back into the
Karoo and aiming back towards Gauteng.
As far as electronic gadgets are concerned there are none!
And even though I am a fan of little luxuries like power
shifters and cruise control I think they would actually detract
from the pure riding experience on this bike.
Maybe I might sing a different song if I ever get to ride one
through the Karoo and along the West Coast but for now I
really do like the fact that there are no gadgets on it, just
you and your steel horse riding into the sunset.
Hmmm … I wonder if the bank manager is in a generous
mood.
Glenn says …
Big. (Like MASSIVE). Strong. Brash and loud.
Over the last couple of years, we have ridden and tested quite a
few Chopper offerings on the market and if there is a cruiser that
has a presence on the road, it’s this Boulevard.
I love the fact that it is a thoroughly modern motorcycle designed
for real riders. It is comfortable, smooth and powerful right off the
bat. On a few of the bikes we’ve ridden, it feels as though the
manufacturers deliberately make their cruisers uncomfortable so
that you are forced to spend money to make them rideable. Or
maybe they have tiny people wholly unsuited to the SA market as
testers.
And as far as I can remember, it hasn’t always been like that.
A cruiser, in my opinion should be made for comfortable hours in
the saddle. And this one fits the bill perfectly.
We accept the fact that cruisers are not for everyone – but on
any Sunday just have a look around you, they are out in force at
all the breakfast run venues and we understand why. They have
been made for the cool factor – and they make sense for riders
who no longer want to crouch over the tank of a GSXR and blitz
through the twisties.
It’s a case of chilled (or in this case, not so chilled) cruising to
enjoy the routes on offer in absolute comfort. This bike is so well
appointed – and unlike some of the “Nakeds” that we have used.
This one arrived with one of the best designed screens on the
planet that makes it easy to travel at warp speeds without getting
blown out of the saddle – or stealing from the overall lines of the
motorcycle.
GET YOUR
KIDS ONTO
THE REAL
“PLAYSTATION!”
Perhaps I’m not quite mature enough to rush out and buy a
cruiser just yet… but I have to confess that this bike was one
hell of a lot of fun to ride.
This one was loaned to us by Suzuki East in Boksburg
(Thanks Guys).
SUZUKI Boulevard M109
Engine Four Stroke 54 0 V Twin
Capacity 1786cc
Max Power 92kw @ 6200 rpm
Max Torque 160Nm @ 3200 rpm
Transmission 5 Speed Manual
Final Drive Shaft
Seat Hight 705mm
Wet Weight 347kg
Fuel Capacity 19 Litres
WHERE IT ALL BEGINS!
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Moto GP 2021
Our Racing man Donovan Fourie peers into his crystal ball and shares his
thoughts on what might – and might not be for the 2021 season…
A plague infested calendar…
Already, COVID is playing havoc with the 2021 calendar as we see dates being
thrown around desperately while Dorna figures out where they can go and where
they cannot.
From all this, we’ve learned that the MotoGP circus is going to be very sick of
Qatar. Malaysia has seen a rise in cases and a newfound fondness for lockdowns,
so the traditional two Sepang tests have been called off.

And so, Dorna does what it always does – plays it safe. Qatar
is a desert with about three people living there, so the paddock
needs only to stay away from those three people, and they
should be fine.
Therefore, instead of a two-day test at Qatar to follow the four
days at Sepang, MotoGP riders can look forward to Qatar’s six
days. They then can look forward to the two opening rounds,
on back-to-back weekends, at Qatar, something that has been
described by riders as “really boring” while isolated to the hotel
between weekends.
Fun times.
The rounds in Argentina and Texas, originally due to follow the
single round in Qatar, have been put on hold with Portimao
making a return to the calendar for 2021 after the second Qatar.
With two more rounds added to the calendar already, it seems
unlikely that we will return to Argentina and Texas this year.
The good news is that, so far, the rest of the calendar remains
as is.
Testing all in one place:
MotoGP riders will have to make do with six days of testing happening
in quick succession at Qatar. Logistically, it makes all the
sense in the world because everything need be at one place at
one time, instead of being carted all over the world three times.
Logistics Managers can spend a half-day getting it all together
and then go on Holiday until April.
For the riders and engineers, it’s a terrible idea. Yes, they get
through their packed testing schedule more easily over six
straight days in the same place, but it’s more quality than quantity
they are after.
The problem, we suspect, is worse for Yamaha who are traditionally
very good at Qatar. This means that problems they may
encounter throughout the calendar may be covered up somewhat
by Qatar’s favourable conditions.
KTM has a strong team this year with Miguel and Brad
We have seen this before, especially in 2016 when Maverick
Vinales absolutely dominated throughout the Qatar tests, only to
be snubbed later in the year as previously unseen flaws in the
bike came to light at other circuits.
Testing not with one man:
Sticking with Yamaha, Lin Jarvis, the head of the Yamaha
MotoGP project, has stated that they will still be listening to
Valentino Rossi’s input even though the Italian is no longer in
the factory team after making the change to Petronas.
The problem there is the word “still”. For years, Yamaha has
apparently discarded Rossi’s advice, seemingly opting more
for the likes of Vinales even though he seems to constantly be
wrong and Rossi constantly right.
With some luck, VR46 fans might see The Doctor’s resurgence
in 2021 now that he is under the umbrella of a private team that
is possibly more interested in individual rider needs instead of
the factory agenda.
KTM and Aprilia advantage:
KTM has seen their new concessions revoked, after a bunch
of podiums and three race wins in 2020. The concessions are
designed to give new or smaller manufacturers a development
boost with less technical freezes and more testing opportunities.
One concession KTM can overcome is the design freeze for
2021, meaning Team Orange can introduce an entirely new motorcycle
for this year where Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki and Ducati
must keep much the same machine.
That means that Brad Binder might have a good deal more
testing to do at Qatar than many of his peers. Binder has stated
only that there are new things to try for 2021, evading saying a
completely new bike.
This can only be an advantage as the worst thing that could
happen is none of the new parts work, and they use the old bike
again for 2021.
After all, it was good in 2020.
Aprilia is the other manufacturer
that benefits from concessions,
something Aleix Espargaro will
undoubtedly look forward to after
being critical of the Noale factory
for making very little progress in
2020.
Jack Attack:
Jack Miller’s form has found him
in a Ducati factory seat for the first
time in his premier class career.
The Australian put on a helluva
show in 2020 aboard the satellite
Pramac Ducati, and now finds
himself with an entire factory at his
disposal.
The benefit will be him leading the
way in bike development and having
a larger bank for knowledge
behind him with some of the best
engineers in the world dedicating
all their thinking prowess to him.
The challenge is dealing with the
pressure of performing in a factory team, something not to be
taken likely and has been the demise riders in the past.
Jack has been through hell to get where he is. It’s doubtful he
will let anything get to him.
Will Suzuki still work?
Here’s the thing about Suzuki’s success in 2020 and, ultimately,
Mir’s championship win – it sort-of relied heavily on the fact that
the season was topsy-turvy.
Races were held when races shouldn’t, or Michelin brought
tyres designed for a different time of year when the track wasn’t
a veritable ice-rink and tended to be a touch on the slippery
side. Ducati and KTM were worst off with this predicament, with
their strengths only working when the tyres can be kept up to
temperature.
Suzuki, on the other hand, thrived, and along with consistency,
they often benefitted from other’s downfall. Literally.
The problem is that, so far, the calendar is mostly running as
usual, so tyres should work out with no geology anomalies. Will
Suzuki still manage when everyone else is not having
problems?
Getting on Pol:
Most of the Honda headlines are about Marc Marquez. He’s
injured and is still wearing an arm brace seven months after
his initial injury. He probably will not make it to the tests, and
there’s a good chance he will miss the first races. After that,
who knows?
On the other side of the Repsol garage sits the mostly smiling
Pol Espargaro. He is venturing where many others have failed,
and the Honda so far is a Marc Marquez only machine.
Pol has some things going for him – he’s an aggressive, late
braking rider much like Marquez, so maybe his style already
matches what the Honda asks.
Plus, Honda has spent a year without Marc Marquez, and the
influence of input solely from the other riders might have softened
the Honda bite and made the bike more rideable.
Where Pol might suffer is with the new one-track testing schedule.
Like we mentioned earlier, testing the new bike at one track
may not highlight every flaw of the Honda, and may give the
rider a false sense of what is required of him.

The Shez Show should be electric:
Team Marc VDS is withdrawing their entry
from the MotoE class after failing to find a
rider to replace the departing Mike Di Meglio.
We have a suggestion – Sheridan Morais.
The amiable South African racer is famous for
getting on with motorcycles that are not
traditionally meant for racing, such as the
extremely heavy MotoE electric racers.
Thus far, the class has been a destination for
retired Grand Prix racers, and other oddball
entries, the sort of competitors Morais would
have no problem challenging.
Like most things for South African racers, the
problem here is that Marc VDS undoubtedly
wants a big cheque to accompany potential
racers.
South African Rands just don’t cut it…
Let’s see. The season starts at the end of
March. It must hurry up.

BMW’s S1000XR HP
If you have read our features on BMW’s S1000 XR’s, you’ll
know that we like them. A lot. And we cannot understand
why there are not an awful lot more of them on SA’s streets.
Well. BMW just released an updated 2021 version of the
same. We borrowed a bike from BMW Fourways and headed
out into the great beyond.
After BMW announced several changes to the potent inline
four powerplant in its S 1000 RR superbike in 2019, we
figured it was only a matter of time before the tech trickled
down to its flagship sport tourer. And we were correct. We
went along to the launch of the bike in Spain and discovered
that the bike is lighter, faster and more versatile than ever
before. Oh and it vibrates or buzzes a whole lot less than the
earlier models.
We weren’t personally completely sold on the battleship blue
colour scheme – but – hey it proved to be a great bike so you
could overlook the very conservative detailing.

The big news of course was the RR-derived engine, which
pumps out a claimed 165 horsepower at 11,000 rpm and
84 lb-ft of torque at 9,250. Fourth, fifth and sixth gears
were given longer ratios to reduce noise, fuel consumption
and engine speed.
The bike features what BMW calls engine drag torque
control (MSR), which reduces rear wheel hopping under
hard deceleration.
The suspension, frame and swingarm were all been
tweaked to reduce weight, and coupled with the lighter
engine the 2020 S 1000 XR weighs in at 226KG’s
The list of standard features on the bike is long:
Dynamic ESA (electronic suspension), four ride modes
(Road, Rain, Dynamic and Dynamic Pro), Dynamic Traction
Control (DTC) with wheelie control, ABS Pro (cornering
ABS) with Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), 6.5-inch TFT
display, LED lighting and Hill Start Control Pro. Options
include Dynamic ESA Pro with two damping modes and
automatic load compensation, HP Shift Assistant Pro (up
and down quickshifter), Headlight Pro with DRL and cornering
lights, and electronic cruise control.
And it all works perfectly. It is one hell of a lot of bike. But
all of that aside – the XR is blisteringly fast, comfortable
and most importantly a really fun bike to ride. Especially in
countries like ours where we love to hit the long roads on
the weekends.
Fast forward to 2021 and BMW unleashes the X1000R
XP…
Ok now we’ll forgive you if you, like us start getting all
confused – but the most obvious update is the beautiful
colour scheme.
The new Style Sport package adds some performance
enhancements to the sport-touring the 2021 BMW S 1000
XR.
It features a titanium sports pipe, a sport windshield and
an additional Core Screen on the dash that includes a lap
timer.
The bike comes with an M Endurance chain, and that new
color combo.
If you don’t want the entire Style Sport package, the
titanium muffler and M Endurance chain are both available
as solo accessories. The bike has a new luggage rack to
carry either a 30- or 49-liter top case. Also new is a USB
charging port. Both the luggage rack and the charging port
can be had independently as accessories.
The one we rode was fitted with a top box that is unobstrusive
and practical for everyday use. Stefan popped all of
his photographic equipment in there – and forgot about it.
And its still a marvelous thing. If you are looking for a bike
that is supremely comfortable for hours in the saddle and
that will get you to your destination faster than you can sat
Beee Em Double Youuuuu then this is a bike that you need
to look at.
Sean says:
Possibly one of the most comfortable, stupidly powerful
and best handling bikes I have ridden in a long time. I went
on the S.A. media launch when the lock down regulations
were relaxed a bit last year and was immediately infatuated
with the 1000XR, so when we got the opportunity to
grab it again I made sure I was around to give it another
whirl.
I am a big fan of the upright sitting position, being an old
school rider, old moto-x’er and mostly an adventure rider
this is the sitting position I am most comfortable with.
I will say this though, the seat does take a bit of getting used to, it is
a moulded bucket type seat so when you are up and going it is really
comfy with nice lower lumbar support, but when you stop and put your
leg down it does put a bit of point pressure on your bum cheek.
As expected the TFT screen, the electronics package, system nav
wheel and etc are all pure BMW quality. With the seat, the fuel tank is
also sculpted for you to tuck into, the fairing and the screen provide
more than enough protection form the elements. The relationship
between the footpegs, seat and handlebar sets you up for long
comfortable days in the saddle, but also allow you to move around on
the bike when attacking corners and long sweeping bends.
You also sit quite high, so when you are lane splitting between
traffic you can see over most of the vehicles and are very visible to the
drivers.
As expected, based on the legendary S1000RR, the power from the
motor is more than most of us can use in any of the rider modes. The
suspension and chassis are beyond reproach in any circumstance
from your daily commute, to that tour down to Clarens and through the
Golden Gate national park and even as a track day bike. We kept the
1000XR in ‘Dynamic’ mode and switched off as many of the electronic
nannies as we could and spent a great afternoon carving up corners
and bulleting down long straights, then when it was time to go home it
was simply a case of dialing in the cruise control and pointing the XR in
at the sunset an watch the miles fly by.

This is undoubtedly a brilliant all
round bike and something that
you could live with everyday
if you had only money for one
bike but wanted three bikes, a
commuter, a tourer and a track
bike …
I’m certainly keeping an eye on
the classifieds just in case a
bargain comes up that I could
afford. This one came from BMW
Fourways.
Go and take it for a spin. We
think that you will like it. A lot.
BMW S1000 XR
Engine 999cc, Transverse 4 cylinder
DOHC; 4 Cylinders per valve
Max Power 165hp / 121 kw @ 11000rpm
Torque 114Nm @ 92500rpm
Transmission Constant mesh 6-speed
Final Drive Chain
Suspension Front 43mm Dynamic ESA
Suspension Rear Dynamic ESA Eletronic
adjustment
Seat Height 840mm
Wheelbase 1552 mm
Fuel Capacity 20 Litres
Wet Weight 226kg
GET IT.
READ IT.
LOVE IT!
www.go-mx.co.za
Specialists Say no more... in motocross gear and accessories
SA’S MOST LOVED
ROAD & TRACK MOTOR-
CYCLE MAGAZINE.
READ IT AT
www.motomedia.co.za
173 Blaauwberg Road, Table View info@go-mx.co.za
079 270 8958
@go_mx @GO.MX.CT

VALUE
FOR MONEY
Quick Ride: Honda’s 2020 NC750.
Some of the best value for money on the road…
Words and most pics by Stefan VD Riet
Being the new guy at RideFast Magazine, our
photographer Stefan is often gobsmacked by the
beautiful machines that trundle through our gates.
He is often more gobsmacked when we give him the
values of some of the bikes and we have to explain
why we would prefer him not to ride supercharged
stuff just until he get a little more experience.
When Honda offered us an NC, we decided that we’d
give him the task of doing the feature, here is his
take on the bike…
The guys do exaggerate a bit, luckily they have allowed
me to ride quite a few of the bikes that come through
the gates. This one really appealed to me because my
Dad has an NC 750, with the DCT gearbox. So when
the friendly guys at Honda Wing Centurion lent us this
beautiful blue NC to test our riding endurance, I jumped
at the opportunity.
We took off on the long open road past Bapsfontein for a
full day semi-local scenic adventure.

As soon as you get on the bike you feel
comfortable. It’s not too high, with a seat
height of 830mm, just low enough for
me to place both my feet firmly on the
ground (and I’m not so tall). The
handlebars are what you would expect,
in a nice raised position for upright riding
with all the controls you need in easy to
reach places including a toggle switch for
the traction control, which can be set to
1, 2 or off.
The footpegs are at a very comfortable
spot relatively high off the ground so you
shouldn’t scrape when having a nice lean
through corners unless you see
yourself as Rossi in your head. On the
long straight roads, the Honda glides like
a dream with a comfortable soft seat that
you could sit on all day, for both rider and
pillion, and the suspension soft enough
to iron out those bumps and potholes
that we know all too well.
The bike has a relatively quiet exhaust
with a nice-sounding low hum so you
shouldn’t bother your neighbours when
you start your bike to begin your 6 am
commute to work. Half commuter and
half mid-sized adventure machine, the
NC750X is a stress-free motorcycle
with all-round appeal that toes the line
between sensible daily runner and
thrill-seeking tourer perfectly.
Powered by a bullet-proof 745cc
liquid-cooled parallel twin engine that
produces just over 51 horsepower, it might not be the fastest
bike but what the NC750X lacks in top end performance it
makes up for with practical low to mid-range torque. It has a
smooth dual-clutch 6-speed gearbox that shifts very smoothly
with an even and easy to use clutch, making it as fun as ever to
work through your gears around corners and cruising through
the straights.
The engine delivers very nice linear torque through the whole
rev range and is gentle on power for a 750, making it a very
easy bike to ride.
Im not trying to be disparaging, because the 750 has more than
enough power and lean angle to make for an entertaining ride
through corners and twisty roads and can reach up to 180km/h
on a straight road if you push it a bit.
If you find yourself pushing too hard , the bike is fitted with
Nissin brakes which deliver plenty of stopping power, and the
standard ABS ensures safe deceleration.
The 2020 NC750x has funky angular styling with a very beaky
front end that makes it look very much like an adventure tourer,
and the nice little low profile visor keeps most of the wind out of
your hair.
It is fitted with a bright modern LED headlight and LED brake
lights, and the particular one that we tested has a beautiful blue
paint job that my photos cannot do justice.
In my opinion, the front storage compartment is what makes the
NC one of the best bikes in its class. It is located in the hump
where the petrol tank would typically be found and can fit a fullface
helmet – or most of my camera equipment with ease.
The petrol tank is then located underneath the pillion seat, and
both the tank and the trunk are unlocked by the same keyhole,
turning the key left or right respectively to open each.
After the scenic day ride, we came home to JHB traffic that we
all enjoy so much.
Lane splitting is no issue as the bike is narrow enough to fit
through most traffic and the low-end torque makes it easy to
get out of cramped situations on the road. The seat became the
saviour of the day as I could sit through stop light after stop light
without any complaint. It’s easy to find neutral while waiting and
easier still to get going from the green light.
Speaking about traffic lights…
I pulled up to a light near Snake Road and noticed a guy in Full
colours on a bike in front of me. Riders wearing colours are
usually a fierce looking bunch who ride Fireblades ‘Busa’s and
Harleys.
This guy was on… you guessed it, an NC750. This really is a
bike for everyone.
All in all, it’s a fantastically convenient and comfortable bike that
you could point in any direction and it will do what you ask with
pleasure. It’s everything that you need in a bike, including great
fuel efficiency and a very nice price in a world where things are
getting so pricey.
I hope that when Honda SA has the new 2021 model in their
demo fleet we’ll get a call.
I enjoyed every second on this one.
Honda Wing Centurion: 012 643 1017
Bike Specs...
HONDA NC750X
Engine Four Stroke Parallel twin, SOHC,
4 Valves per Cylinder
Capacity 745cc
Max Power 40.3kw @ 6250 rpm
Max Torque 68Nm @ 4750 rpm
Transmission 6 Speed Manual
Final Drive Chain
Frame Rigid tube steel diamond
Seat Hight 830mm
Wet Weight 220kg
Fuel Capacity 14.1 Litres

HERO NOW IN SA
HERO Eco 150 and 100
5 Year/100,000km warranty.
Now In SA.
Story: Donovan Fourie, Sean Hendley
Pics: Meghan McCabe
So, what does the worlds biggest producer of
motorcycles and the HERO Moto Corporation
have in common?
Well, they are one and the same. As we sit here
writing this article on the 21st of January 2021
the 100 millionth Hero motorcycle is rolling off
the production line … say that slowly O.N.E.
H.U.N.D.R.E.D. M.I.L.L.I.O.N … that is a monumental
number in anybody’s book and even
more astounding is that the HERO Moto Corporation
is a relative youngster in the motorcycle
market, first seeing the light of day in 1984.
What the hell are bikes like these doing in Ride-
Fast Magazine?
Well they are here. We need cost effective, entry
level bikes in order to get more bums in saddles.
And our job is to let people know what is
available on the market.

1984 seems to be one of the best years around, think about your
favourite 80’s song … go Google it’s year of first release … don’t
be surprised if it is 1984. So, here is a quick history of the HERO
Moto Corporation:
1984 - The company is founded by a visionary young man by
the name of Dr. Pawan Munjal
1985 - The first production facility starts producing the iconic
CD100 under licence from Honda
1987 - They achieve their first milestones with the 100 thou
sandth unit rolling off the production line
1994 - They introduce the world to the ‘Splendor’ model and
achieve their next milestone, their 1 millionth unit rolls off
the line … let that sink in for a bit … 1 million units in 10
years
1997 - They start opening new plants around India
2000 - They are now the biggest manufacturers of motorcycles
2004 - Their 10 millionth unit rolls off the production …
10 million units in 20 years!!!
2011 - By now they have opened 8 plants in total including a
tech R&D plant in Germany.
2015 - 2018 - They participate in the DAKAR Rallye and win
Rookie of the Year title with Oriol Men in 2018.
2021 - The 100 millionth unit rolls off the production line, 100
million units in 37 years, that is an average of around
7,400 units per day give or take and assuming they work
a full 365 day year, which they probably don’t, so bend
your mind around that!
A couple of years ago the HERO Moto Corporation struck out on
their own and is now the biggest motorcycle producer around. We
were chatting to Craig of Hero Motorcycles South Africa and he
mentioned having visited a Hero dealership in New Delhi.
He says the entire dealership was about the size of an average
double garage with a couple of bikes on the floor. Most notably
however was a lean to built around the dealership, which
reminded him of government department waiting area here in
S.A. with people shuffling along from chair to chair, waiting for
their turn to order and pay for their very own Hero motorcycle and
waiting for delivery thereof in around 2 months’ time.
EXCUSE ME, a queue around the building waiting for their turn to
order and pay for a bike and quite happy to wait two months for
delivery???
And that is just one small little dealership. To top it all as part of
a Licensing agreement, Hero MotoCorp will develop and sell a
range of premium motorcycles under the Harley-Davidson brand
name.
And now they are on their way to South Africa.
Yes, it might not be a big, exciting superbike, but it is a very
important bike, especially in emerging economies, to get bums in
saddles and the nation mobile. Craig invited us to ride the Hero
Eco 150 and the 100.
The 100.
The 100 has hardly changed since it first hit a production line in
1994, yet people still choose it from a shelf of alternatives. There
must be something to it.
It shares a motor with the Honda Super Cub, the most successful
motorcycle ever. The air-cooled single has 97cc and thumps out
8hp and 8Nm of torque, a modest amount for RideFast but more
than enough to take on India’s harshest streets.
Or the streets and potholes of Industria in West Jo’burg.
It is capable of 100km/h at a push, but speed isn’t the objective
here. The projected lifespan of that motor is twenty years and has
a stop/start feature that cuts it when at robots. This, and
generally frugal petrol sipping, has seen it achieve a fuel
economy of 70km/l.
We didn’t get that during our test, partially because we spent
the day revving the mammaries off it with a rider that probably
weighs three times more than the average Indian. Yet, with this
uneconomical abuse, we got 40km/l.
The componentry of the 100 is simple and basic, and probably
won’t win any major motorcycle design awards, yet are all
sturdy, strong and well-made. The brakes are drum units activated
by an old-school cable, something that has been resigned
to the sports bike skip since 1969. It’s a laughable attempt at
stoppage were we attempting to break Kyalami lap records, but
through the streets of New Delhi, or Industria, strewn with potholes,
dirt, old, diesel and organic fluids, anything more would
be suicidal.
It also means no pads and disks that require replacing.
Have you spotted the theme yet?
It weighs just 110kg and is good for dodging lorries trying to
reverse out of warehouses, and Karens driving SUVs in Pick ‘n
Pay parking lots.
Some facts:
The Hero 100 is now the biggest selling single motorcycle
model in the world.
In 2020, during the height of the pandemic, Hero sold 2.6 million
of this model.
Read it again – 2.6 million!
To better understand this number’s enormity, Hero sold more
units of just this model in 2020 than BMW, KTM, Ducati,
Triumph, Harley-Davidson and Indian combined. In three years!
Price is yet to be confirmed, but we are looking in the region of
R13,000 or R14,000. That’s all for a well-made, economical,
cleverly-build city run-around.
The 150:
Walking around the 150, the bike it is very reminiscent of Hero’s
partnership with Honda in styling and in quality of build. Starting
the motor, we had to rev it to make sure it was running. It is so
silky smooth that it has barley any vibration at all, this is due to
the motor incorporating counterbalance shafts into the design
we are told.
Hero uses a full frame design mounting the motor into the frame
and not having it form part of the chassis and with that smooth
motor there is almost no vibration through the bars or the
seat. The chain is completely enclosed, and they use an extra
strength chain, so maintenance only needs to be done at the
3,000km service intervals.
The other thing we noticed is how light and soft the clutch operation
was. Some of the units come with “Stop/Start” technology
to further decrease the emissions and increase fuel economy
emphasising the brands commitment to sustainability.
Then there is the fuel efficiency at claimed 40 to 60 km’s per
litre around town obviously dependant on economical riding
styles and habits… we did not do that, we kept the little 150cc
Hero pinned against the red line the whole day and our resident
hooligan spent a fair amount of time on the back wheel, completely
contrary to what they were designed for and we easily
saw around 30 kays to the litre before we chickened out and
filled up
So, what is it like to spend a day in the saddle? We hear you
ask.
Although these are real entry level commercial bikes, we had
some fun. The seats are kind to your tush, the angle of your
hips and ankles in relation to you shoulder position is really
comfortable even for my 6 foot plenty bod, so the ergonomics
are really good.
The clocks sport a speedo, rev counter and fuel gauge, all
analogue. Almost zero vibration from the counterbalanced motor
significantly reduces rider fatigue. The gearing is quite low
which gives it plenty acceleration off the line… and according to
our crash test dummy makes it really easy to wheelie.
In the real world though it means it gets off the line really well
and can haul reasonably heavy loads and still maintain a
reasonable speed up and down hills, as was evident lugging my
115kg mass around most of the day.
The 150 can be ridden on the freeways legally and can reach
120kmh, but the engine is really working hard at those kind of
speeds at around 9,000rpm but it is more comfortable around
the 90 to 100kmh mark.
You sit quite high on a nice narrow bike with good acceleration
and decent enough top speed, so whipping between traffic
and shooting off from a traffic light and getting ahead of traffic
is really easy. During the course of the day, we must have
been approached by 6 or 7 delivery riders who were extremely
interested in the bikes and our opinions thereof, a lot of them
being foreign nationals have experienced the Hero brand in
their home countries and were really excited to see them on the
streets of Joburg, all boding well for the local importers.
The big take away from the ride for us was the great quality, the
very reasonable price tag of just under R20,000.00 for the Eco
150, the service intervals, and the cheap servicing price, so cost
of ownership is low.
5 year/100,000km warranty as well as their 3000km service
intervals at a mere R599.00 per service.
For more information send an enquiry to
info@heromotorcycles.co.za

TYRE TECH TALK
Festive Season Tyre Combo Specials!
ALL THE PREMIUM BRANDS
THAT COUNT UNDER ONE ROOF
by Bruce de Kock, owner of Bike Tyre Warehouse Group
Great Giveaways with these Combos...
Metzeler Sportec M9 RR
Hi Peeps
Well January is done & dusted I am sure many are really happy it is over and now with some cash
in those riding jeans if you are in the market for a new set of tyres then consider the below as
possible options.
I have already covered some of these tyres when they were released last year but these
outstanding tyres really stood out in the market in 2020 so I am revisiting some of them for those
Scoop these limited that missed offer the various Giveaways press releases at & Bike journo Tyre scribbles Warehouse,
last year.
SA’s leading motorcycle and ATV tyre supplier. Save BIG on our
Michelin Power 5
Tyre Combo Specials, now available at 4 branches nationwide.
The Michelin Power 5 targets sports motorcycle owners who
use their bikes intensively on public roads. The priorities of
these riders range from long tyre life and good grip performance,
whatever the conditions but more especially in wet
weather – to efficient traction and reassuring handling under
braking. The wet weather grip provided by the Michelin Power 5
is PIRELLI exceptional. Angel GT: (Pictured)
• 120/70R-17 & 160/60R-17, R3,400, SAVE R350
CHIEF • 120/70R-17 CHARACTERISTICS & 180/55R-17, R3,500, OF THE SAVE MICHELIN R700 POWER 5:
• Innovative compound, incorporating silica and carbon
120/70R-17 & 190/50R-17, R3,600, SAVE R600
black,
120/70R-17 & 190/55R-17, R3,600, SAVE R700
• MICHELIN 2CT technology (front tyre) and MICHELIN
• (A) 120/70R-17 2CT+ technology & 180/55R-17, (rear R3,700, tyre), SAVE R1,000
• (A) 120/70R-17 A sea-to-land & 190/50R-17, ratio of R3,775, 11 percent SAVE front R685and rear,
• (A) 120/70R-17 A new design & 190/55R-17, and sidewalls R3,820, SAVE that feature R740 Michelin’s
Premium Touch Technology.
PIRELLI Angel GT 2: (Not Pictured)
Michelin • 120/70R-17 Power & 160/60R-17, GP R4,060, SAVE R610
• 120/70R-17 & 180/55R-17, R4,170, SAVE R625
The • 120/70R-17 Michelin & Power 190/50R-17, GP targets R4,300, motorcyclists SAVE R650 who use their
sport • 120/70R-17 bikes on & public 190/55R-17, roads R4,370, but occasionally SAVE R655take it to circuits for
track • 120/70R-19 days or & tuition, 170/60R-17, for example. R4,480, SAVE The Michelin R550 Power GP offers
high performance levels in these situations.
• (A) 120/70R-17 & 180/55R-17, R4,399, SAVE R640
CHIEF CHARACTERISTICS OF THE MICHELIN POWER GP:
(A) 120/70R-17 & 190/50R-17, R4,500, SAVE R630
• A compound that incorporates silica and carbon black
• (A) 120/70R-17 MICHELIN & 190/55R-17, 2CT technology R4,590, SAVE (front R640 tyre) and
MICHELIN 2CT+ technology (rear tyre) conceived to
deliver superior performance on public roads
and racetracks alike.
• ‘Slick zones’ on the sidewalls for track use,
• A sea-to-land ratio of 6.5%,
• Sidewalls that feature Michelin’s Premium Touch
Technology.
• Offer valid from 01/12/2020 – 31/12/2020 or while limited stocks last.
• We ship tyres and accessories overnight to your door
* Please wear a face mask on arrival.
BUY ANY PIRELLI ANGEL GT COMBO &
GET A FREE PIRELLI LTD EDITION T-SHIRT
BUY ANY METZELER KAROO 3 STREET COMBO
& GET A FREE DIGITAL PRESSURE GAUGE
METZELER Karoo 3 Street:
• 90/90-21 & 150/70R-17, R2,680, SAVE R1,400
• 90/90-21 & 150/70R-18, R2,680, SAVE R1,400
• 110/80R-19 & 150/70R-17, R2,800, SAVE R1,375
• 120/70R-19 & 170/60R-17, R2,900, SAVE R1,780
The SPORTEC M9 RR is the latest super sports tyre from Metzler,
replacing the SPORTEC M7 RR. It is designed for owners of super
sports and naked bikes with a sporty DUNLOP riding style, ADVENTURE that use their RANGE: bikes
every day and in all weather conditions: BUY from ANY the TRAIL urban MAX jungle MISSION to the 50/50 COMBO
fast runs of the weekend excursions. & GET A FREE FOLDABLE COOLER BAG
• 90/90-21 54T & 150/70-17 69T R3,200, SAVE R350
The old M7 RR was instantly impressive and always at the pointy end
• 90/90-21 54T & 150/70-18 70T R3,200, SAVE R350
of sports tyre comparison tests. You could throw them on a superbike
and grind out a track day. They excelled • 110/80-19 in the dry, 59T wet, &150/70-17 were durable 69T R3,500, SAVE R350
and offered a velvety ride over the road • 120/70-19 surfaces 60T too. & 170/60-17 72T R3,700, SAVE R350
As you’d expect from a new generation tyre, the Sportec M9 RR is
all-improved with new dual compounds front and rear, construction, and
a bigger footprint. But what immediately impresses the second you turn
a wheel is the new front tyre.
Sat between sports touring and fast road /track day rubber the
Metzeler’s new Sportec M9 RR is a one-stop-shop DUNLOP ROAD tyre RANGE: for the sporty
riders amongst us and a step on from BUY the ANY superb COMBO M7 RR & and GET that’s A FREE just DUNLOP COOLER BOX
about the best compliment you can give • GPR300 them. 120/70R17 &160/60R17 R2,500, SAVE R350
Metzeler Roadtec 01 SE • GPR300 120/70R17 &180/55R17 R2,600, SAVE R350
• GPR300 120/70R17 &190/50R17 R2,700, SAVE R350
The Metzeler Roadtec 01 SE puts the • sport ROADSMART3 side back 120/70R-17 into sports & touring
an evolution of the multi award winning • ROADSMART3 Roadtec 01, 120/70R-17 it has become & 180/55R17 R3,580, SAVE R400
160/60R17 R3,250, SAVE R400
one of the benchmarks for wet handling, • ROADSMART3 grip and mileage 120/70R-17 for super & 190/50R17 R3,750, SAVE R400
sport and naked motorcycles. • ROADSMART3 120/70R-17 & 190/55R17 R3,750, SAVE R400
Metzeler’s Roadtec has been at the top • SPORTMAX of the sports Q3+ touring 120/70R-17 tree & for 180/55R17 a R3,780, SAVE R390
decade now, firstly the Interact Z8 version, followed by the 01 in 2016 –
• SPORTMAX Q3+ 120/70R-17 & 190/50R17 R3,895, SAVE R390
both offering class-leading levels of all-weather grip, but now there’s a
new one: the Roadtec 01 SE.
• SPORTMAX Q3+ 120/70R-17 & 190/55R17 R3,895, SAVE R390
The new tyres still have single compound • SPORTMAX front but Q4 features 120/70R-17 a thirdgeneration
dual compound rear. Metzeler • SPORTMAX has tweaked Q4 120/70R-17 compounds, & 190/55R17 R4,165, SAVE R400
& 180/60R17 R3,985 SAVE R400
tread pattern and there’s more ‘slick’ • rubber SPORTMAX on the Q4 edges 120/70R-17 for improved & 200/55R17 R4,280, SAVE R400
dry cornering confidence and sharper steering.
On the road it’s hard to get enough heat into a tyre for it to work
properly, especially if it’s cold, or after you’ve been coasting through
town but just like the original Roadtec 01 the new SE warms up quickly,
so you can get onto the throttle much
quicker.
For all-weather, long distance riders looking for a tyre to look after them
BUY in all ANY conditions, BATT HP the SERIES new Metzeler 11 COMBO Roadtec & 01 SE carry on from their
GET predecessor A FREE DIGITAL as being PRESSURE the new GAUGE go-to sports touring tyre.
BATT
So, a
HP
few
Series
options
II:
to think about if you are planning on heading into a motorcycle tyre fitment center soon.
• 120/70R-17 & 160/60ZR-17, R2,700, SAVE R1,100
You are most welcome to pop into any one of our Bike Tyre Warehouse stores nationwide and our friendly and professional technical
•
staff
120/70R-17
can run
&
through
180/55ZR-17,
these
R2,800,
options
SAVE
in more
R1,150
detail, give you the opportunity to touch and feel to make sure you are choosing the right
• tyre 120/70R-17 for your & bike 190/50ZR-17, and riding R3,000, style. SAVE R1,150
• 120/70R-17 & 190/55ZR-17, R3,300, SAVE R1,200
• Stay 120/70R-17 safe & & enjoy 200/55ZR-17, our open R3,500, roads. SAVE R1,200
Bruce de Kock
CEO – Bike Tyre Warehouse Group Holdings
• Facebook @BikeTyreWarehouse • Twitter @biketyrewhse
Tel: 011 205 0216 • Cell: 073 777 9269 / 083 467 1349
www.biketyrewarehouse.com
Unit 9 Sable Park, 997 Richards Drive, Midrand
* Combo Specials and Give-aways available exclusively from Bike Tyre Warehouse branches:
Midrand Branch:
073 777 9269 / 083 467 1349
sales@biketyrewarehouse.com
East Rand Branch:
082 878 6091 / 082 878 6089
eastrand@biketyrewarehouse.com
Cape Town Branch:
079 735 2951 / 063 146 0086
cpt@biketyrewarehouse.com
Port Elizabeth Branch:
083 267 2685
pe@biketyrewarehouse.com
George Branch:
079 981 0377
npl1964@hotmail.com
GRAPHICWERX ADVERTISING & DESIGN CC

TOLEDO 2.0 AIR
R2,850
For all makes of:
Motorcycles Scooters Quads
SHADO ALSTON
ADVENTURE
TOURING
The Toledo 2.0 Adventure-Touring
jacket has been given a significant
update ensuring it is perfect for
summer riding and high-mileage
riders who want maximum
performance but with massive
air-flow through the jacket.
WET WEATHER
The polyester mesh jacket now
features tough nylon overlays on
the shoulder and elbows, creating
a very durable jacket for summer
use. It also has a removable
waterproof liner just in case of
inclement weather which also
can be used as an over-jacket,
meaning you don’t have to
refit the liner to the inside of the
jacket if you’re caught out in wet
weather.
It has a fully adjustable rolled
Neoprene collar and soft-edged
cuffs for maximum comfort and
features handwarmer pockets
and an outside Napoleon pocket
plus adjustment points on arms
and hips. A Mandarin collar
keeps the rider cool around
the neck.
Subtle black reflective elements
give the rider full visibility when
riding in low light conditions,
giving the rider a full humanoid
shape to other road users,
ensuring the Rider is fully
registered.
The Toledo 2.0 Air has CE
Level 1 protectors to shoulders
and elbows as standard and
provision for Oxford level 1 or 2
back protectors.
Contact DMD on 011 792 7691 or visit www.dmd.co.za for a dealer near you. Prices shown are recommended retail pricing including VAT. E&OE.
FEBRUARY 2021
HONDA
DOES IT AGAIN
Kevin Benavides and Honda
claim victory at the 2021
Dakar Rally
HONDA
TAKES 1ST AND 2ND
AT DAKAR 2021
Looking for motorcycle parts or accessories
Phone 011 395 2553 - 082 756 1008
MORE RIDE FOR YOUR RAND
BIG BOY, STILL OFFERING
THAN ANY OTHER BRAND.
For daily commuting, business deliveries or recreation, Big Boy have a model
for you. With a 3 Year Warranty on road legal models and 80+ dealers nationwide,
Big Boy are geared to offer unmatched value-for-money across our range.
For more info on these and other models, visit our website or an
authorised dealer for a closer look at the model of your choice.
CRUISING
Mustang 250
R35,999.00
Swift 125/150
R15,999.00
Optional Extra Fibreglass Top Box R1,950.00
SCOOTING
COMMERCIAL
Velocity 150- R15,999.00
For the full scooter, motorcycle, ATV and commercial range visit: www.samotorcycles.co.za
ON
SPECIAL!
SAVE
R600 00
WHILE STOCKS
LAST!
Revival
125/150
R18,999.00
ON/OFF ROAD
Adventure
125/150RS
R17,999.00
TTR125S R15,999.00
TTX125J R14,699.00
TSR125 R23,299.00
TSR250 R26,999.00
CRX110F
R17,399.00
MULTI MID WEIGHT ADVENTURE TEST
GAS GAS , KTM, HUSQVARNA 300TPI TEST
HUSQVARNA TEAM LAUNCH - NEWS AND LOTS MORE...
FEBRUARY 2021 RSA R35.00
Email : info@nickscycles.co.za
082 756 1008
Mon - Tues 8am to 5pm Wed 10am to 5pm
Thurs - Fri 8am to 5pm
Closed Saturdays/Sundays & Public Holidays
IMPORTED AND DISTRIBUTED BY
* All advertised prices include VAT, excludes On-The-Road costs & Govt. Levy.
Join Big Boy on
GraphicWerx Advertising & Design cc

TRACK
ROAD
DIRT