1994 Suzuki RGV500 XR84 | Kevin Schwantz

1994 Suzuki RGV500 XR84

With Phil Aynsley

This is Kevin Schwantz’s 1994 factory XR84, on which he won the Japanese and British GPs before finishing a close fourth in the championship that year, three-points behind Kocinski on the Cagiva and five points behind Cadalora on the Yamaha – while Doohan was a whopping 148 points in front. The original number 1 plate has been replaced by Kevin’s more familiar number 34.

A broken arm from a mountain bike tumble had hurt his preparation and made him miss crucial pre-season practice and only gave him three weeks to regain his strength. He was quickly back in form by the third race, winning in Japan. With three more consecutive second place runs, then a heroic win in Great Britain with a broken scaphoid and dislocated wrist along with aches and pains from a violent crash in practice, Kevin seemed poised for another shot at the championship.

That was until Laguna Seca where Schwantz went down at the famous corkscrew, dislocating his left hip and fracturing his right scaphoid. He therefore decided to sit out the remaining races in the ’94 season and have an operation as soon as possible to be able to begin winter testing earlier in preparation for the ’95 season

Kevin Schwantz’s 1994 factory XR84
Kevin Schwantz’s 1994 factory XR84

The 1994 motor was a reed valve V-4 with a 70º V angle (later motors had various angles, up to 80º) and used a dual power valve system.

The reed valve 70º V-4 produced an impressive 190 hp, even by today's standards
The reed valve 70º V-4 produced an impressive 190 hp, even by today’s standards

The earlier Pepsi liveried bikes had a single guillotine exhaust power valve, this bike added a rotary valve for improved low end power.

A quickshifter and and Mikuni 36mm flat slide carburettors are found on this bike
A quickshifter and and Mikuni 36mm flat slide carburettors are found on this bike

The ’94 bike also saw the introduction of a basic quick-shifter, and Mikuni 36mm flat slide carburettors were fitted. Output was about the 190 hp mark, with a weight of 135 kg, allowing for a top speed of approximately 320 km/h.

Kevin Schwantz’s 1994 factory XR84
Kevin Schwantz’s 1994 factory XR84

The team used three or four different chassis during the season to suit each circuit. In addition there were numerous adjustments available including steering head angle (via inserts), triple clamp offset, swingarm pivot position and ride height.

Source: MCNews.com.au

Spinal surgery a success as Ferris begins recovery period

News 14 Aug 2020

Spinal surgery a success as Ferris begins recovery period

Multiple Australian champion due to spend at least six months off the bike.

Image: Supplied.

Recover8 KTM Thor has confirmed three-time national champion Dean Ferris successfully underwent surgery on Wednesday to stabilise a spinal injury sustained while practicing at Conondale last weekend.

After suffering fractures to his vertebrae and ribs in the incident, Ferris was transferred from the Sunshine Coast to Brisbane Hospital earlier in the week, where the operation was completed.

“Renae and I would like to take this time to thank everyone for the kind words and support across social media, the numerous calls and texts we received and finally everyone at the Conondale club who assisted me from the crash,” Ferris commented. “I also have to thank the team of doctors and surgeons between the two hospitals that have been a huge help with my recovery. This crash was unfortunate as I have been feeling great on the bike this year and itching to go racing.

“For now, my focus is solely on my rehab and getting strong enough to spend quality time with my family, chasing the kids around at the farm again. I have been here before with injuries and know the process, it is time to dedicate myself to the rehab with 100 percent focus and I know I can bounce back as strong as ever when it’s time to get back on the bike. I will update everyone of my progress accordingly and once again thank you to the team, the industry and my fans for the unwavering support.”

While it’s too soon to confirm when Ferris will be back on the bike, the Recover8 KTM Thor team has indicated that it won’t be until 2021 in six to eight months time. It isn’t yet clear if the Australian Motocross Championship will take place this year as a result of COVID-19.

“Dean has a long road ahead of him in regards to recovery, but I am very pleased to report the surgery was successful and there have been no further complications from the back injury,” explained Kevin Williams, business development manager of Raceline Performance. “Dean has been able to get out of bed under his own power and walk around a little since surgery was completed and all reports are that he will make a full recovery.

“I know the question everyone wants to ask is, when will Dean be back on the bike? At this stage it is early days, but with Dean’s championship mindset I know he will dedicate himself to rehabilitation and his recovery to ensure he is ready for a return to riding as soon as possible. We are optimistically anticipating a six- to eight-month recovery period before the injuries are stable enough to begin riding again.”


Source: MotoOnline.com.au

Dean Ferris surgery deemed successful

3 x MX Nationals Champion On Road To Recovery

MX Nationals Champion and MX1 team rider Dean Ferris has successfully undergone surgery to stabilise injuries to his back and ribs, sustained at Connondale QLD on Saturday 8th August.

Dean Ferris

“Renae and I would like to take this time to thank everyone for the kind words and support across social media, the numerous calls and texts we received and finally everyone at the Connondale Club who assisted me from the crash. I also have to thank the team of Doctors and Surgeons between the two Hospitals that have been a huge help with my recovery. This crash was unfortunate as I have been feeling great on the bike this year and itching to go racing. For now my focus is solely on my rehab and getting strong enough to spend quality time with my family, chasing the kids around at the farm again. I have been here before with injuries and know the process, it is time to dedicate myself to the rehab with 100% focus and I know I can bounce back as strong as ever when it’s time to get back on the bike. I will update everyone of my progress accordingly and once again thank you to the team , the industry and my fans for the unwavering support”.

Ferris initially spent the first two days following the incident at a local Sunshine Coast Hospital and was later transferred to a Brisbane Hospital in preparation for surgery that was completed on Wednesday 11th August. The goal of surgery was to stabilize Ferris injuries to his back, as a time sensitive priority to ensure recovery could begin.

Kevin Williams – Business Development Manager for Raceline Performance

Dean has a long road ahead of him in regards to recovery but I am very pleased to report the surgery was successful and there have been no further complications from the back injury. Dean has been able to get out of bed under his own power and walk around a little since surgery was completed and all reports are that he will make a full recovery. I know the question everyone wants to ask is when will Dean be back on the bike? At this stage it is early days, but with Dean’s championship mindset I know he will dedicate himself to rehabilitation and his recovery to ensure he is ready for a return to riding as soon as possible. We are optimistically anticipating a six to eight month recovery period before the injuries are stable enough to begin riding again.”

Source: MCNews.com.au

CFMoto 700CL-X launch delayed

The launch of the handsome CFMoto 700CL-X range has been delayed until early 2021, but it will arrive with a pack of accessories.

The company celebrated its 30th anniversary in Milan last November 2019 with the announcement that the 700CL-X would arrive in late 2020 in three models: Sports, Heritage, Adventure.

Sports has bar-end mirrors, lower bars, solo seat and mag wheels. Heritage features more complex mags, round mirrors and wide bars. Adventure has a screen, wire wheels and knobby tyres.

Launch delayed

However, it has been delayed, presumably by the COVID crisis, and will arrive early in 2021.

The 700CL-X Heritage will also launch a wide range of accessories, including classic-style panniers, a diamond-stitched seat, protection and bar-end mirrors, as well as a collection of rider gear.

CFMoto Australia director Michael Poynton says the delayed 700CL-X will be a “watershed model” for the brand as its first middleweight naked.

“The 700CL-X is extremely important to us. It will be the company’s first non-LAMS model, and it’s just the tip of the iceberg of what we can expect from CFMOTO as a result of its relationship with KTM,” Michael says.

“Underscoring that relationship is a significant joint venture built on bricks and mortar.

“This comprises an all-new office and R&D building, in Hangzhou, China, which officially opened this month, as well as a new manufacturing facility nearby, which will be operational later this year.”

Pricing for the 700CL-X range will be announced at a later date, but we can expect it will be among the cheapest in its class as is most of their range.CFMoto 700CL-X

CFMoto 700CL-X

CFMoto models are now designed by Kiska, the contemporary Austrian design house that does KTM’s design work.

The company has close ties with KTM, making their bikes in China for the domestic market.

CFMoto 700CL-X

The design features a mix of modern and traditional influences.

For example, the traditional round headlight has LED lighting and the round instruments have an LCD readout that can display fuel consumption and incoming call.CFMoto 700CL-X

Interestingly, the X design in the headlights and the LCD instrument are quite reminiscent of the popular Ducati Scrambler.CFMoto 700CL-X

The CFMoto 700CL-X has a lightweight frame that weighs just 16.5kg and the swingarm weighs 6.7kg. All up, it weighs 183kg dry.

Technology includes ABS, electronically controlled throttle, sliding clutch, cruise control , USB charging port under the seat and “electronic protection control” (an alarm, we think).

Its lighting system automatically switches on/off according to ambient brightness.CFMoto 700CL-X

New engineCFMoto 700CL-X

The 700CL-X is powered by a newly developed 692cc inline twin-cylinder water-cooled engine.

It is the latest evolution of the CFMOTO 150/250/400/650 displacement platforms, featuring split-type connection rod, forged piston, electronic throttle, sliding clutch.

The optimised intake system improves efficiency and increases the peak power from 41.5kW to 55kw and torque from 62Nm to 67Nm.CFMoto 700CL-X

Thankfully it is one of the few adventur-ish motorcycles that has an easy-to-access air filter for cleaning.

Just remove the right plastic panel.

They say an oil change is so simple it can “easily be done at home”.

CFMoto also has a range of accessories to customise the bike, including luggage for the Adventure model.CFMoto 700CL-X

CFMoto 700CL-X tech specsCFMoto 700CL-X

Dry Weight    

183kg

Length

2100mm

Width    

860mmCFMoto 700CL-X Adventure

Height

1150mm

Wheelbase

1435mm

Seat 

800mmCFMoto 700CL-X

Clearance

160mm

Fuel 

13.5 litres

Front tyre

110/80-R18

Rear tyre

180/55-R17

Front brake

320mm disc, radial-mount caliperCFMoto 700CL-X

Rear brake

260mm disc, floating caliper

Forks

USD, damping adjustableCFMoto 700CL-X

Rear shock

Central shock absorber, damping adjustable

Engine 

4-stroke, liquid-cooled inline twin 

Displacement    

692.2cc

Clutch type

Slide Clutch

CFMoto 700CL-X Heritage
Heritage

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Industry Unites to Prevent 100% Tariffs

Victory for the powersports industry.

Begin press release:


A unified push by the Motorcycle Industry Council, its member companies, and their staffs and dealers has resulted in motorcycles, parts, and accessories being left off the most recent round of European Union tariffs.

Some 100 comments to the United States Trade Representative, referencing motorcycles, urged against tariffs of up to 100 percent on all 500-700cc motorcycles and scooters, as well as all parts and accessories, from the EU and the United Kingdom.

“We’re incredibly pleased that European motorcycles, parts, and accessories have been removed from the most recent round of EU tariffs in relation to the Airbus situation,” said John Hinz, CEO of KTM North America Inc., and MIC board member. “We are extremely thankful that the U.S. Trade Representative heard our concerns and recognized the unintended and potentially devastating impacts that tariffs could have on our industry. This would not have been possible without the support of the MIC and its members, the efforts of Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D., Congressman Tim Walberg, Congressman Ken Calvert, Congressman Jim Jordan, our dealers and our employees, and the support of all our industry partners. Thank you to all who wrote letters, made phone calls, and let Washington, D.C., know the value of our industry and our businesses here in the United States.”

It was an international effort as well, with written comments supplied by Antonio Perlot, secretary general of ACEM, the Motorcycle Industry in Europe.

“This was the third time the USTR made this proposal, and the third time the industry was able to prevail with combined support,” said Erik Pritchard, MIC president and CEO. “The MIC’s Government Relations Office will continue to monitor the situation, hoping that the USTR does not propose these tariffs a fourth time.”

The Motorcycle Industry Council exists to preserve, protect, and promote motorcycling through government relations, communications, media relations, statistics and research, aftermarket programs, data communications standards, and involvement in technical and regulatory issues. As a not-for-profit national industry association, the MIC seeks to support motorcyclists by representing manufacturers, distributors, dealers, and retailers of motorcycles, scooters, ATVs, ROVs, motorcycle/ATV/ROV parts, accessories, and related services, and members of allied trades such as insurance, finance and investment companies, media companies, and consultants.

The MIC is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., with a government relations office in metropolitan Washington, D.C. First called the MIC in 1970, the organization has been in operation since 1914. Keep up with the industry association on Twitter @followMIC and at MIC.org.

The post Industry Unites to Prevent 100% Tariffs appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

Suzuki V-Strom 1050 arrives with accessories

The new Suzuki V-Strom 1050 range has arrived in Australia in two variants, four colour schemes and two accessories packs.

It comes standard in Glass Sparkle Black for $17,990 ride away and the flagship 1050 XT (Cross Touring) at $20,990 ride away in Pearl Brilliant White or Glass Blaze Orange.

Prices include 12-months registration.

There is also a Champion Yellow No.2 inspired by the second generation DR-Z Paris-Dakar racer and a Glass Sparkle Black.

1050 accessories kits

The 1050 models arrive with a choice of two accessories kits to tailor the big adventurer to your needs.

Voyager Pack

This features aluminium panniers and top box in powder-coated black ($3599) and anodised silver ($3699) including mounting brackets.

The 38-litre top box is made of 1.5mm aluminium and has four large tie-down points.

The waterproof, quick-release panniers hold 37 litres each.

That’s 112 litres of storage all up.

This matching system features stainless steel latches, glass-fibre reinforced plastic corner covers and one-key access.

Trekker Pack

On top of the Voyager aluminium luggage, the Trekker Pack includes Suzuki plug-and-play heated grips, LED fog lamps and a 4mm aluminium skid plate.   

The Trekker Pack is also available in black and silver kit variants for $6199 and $6299, respectively.

More power

Not only is the flagship V-Strom 1050 bigger with 5kW more power to 79kW at 8500 revs, but it is also more techno.

Some of the hi-tech features include cruise, hill hold, slope and load dependent controls, ride modes and LED lighting.

V-Strom 1050 press release from Suzuki AustraliaSuzuki V-Strom 1050 Dr Big

Powered by Suzuki’s highly acclaimed 1037cc, 90° V-twin, DOHC engine which has further evolved for MY20, boasting increased top-end power whilst also conforming to Euro 5 emissions standards. Thanks to new camshaft profiles and timing, peak horsepower has increased considerably from 74kW / 8,000rpm to 79kW / 8,500rpm (106hp). The highly refined engine begins with a deep rumble low in the rpm range, then progresses through the mid-range along a strong and linear torque curve then keeps building through the high rpm range in a smooth yet enjoyable manner.Suzuki V-Strom Dr Big

The distinctive new styling incorporates elements of both Suzuki’s legendary DR-Z desert racer and the large off-road model DR-BIG. The distinguishing beak design first adopted by Suzuki stays true to Suzuki’s heritage while also modernising the design to be more aggressive and bolder for the new generation V-Strom 1050.

The most technologically advanced production Suzuki motorcycle in company history, the latest generation V-Strom 1050 is the first to boast Suzuki’s new Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S). Combining an array of electronic aids and controls as well as several unique features only available on XT, further enhancing rider useability and convenience like never before.    

An advanced cruise control system works in conjunction with the new ride-by-wire throttle system to maintain the set vehicle speed without the rider needing to operate the throttle, a welcomed feature for long-distance touring that assists in reducing rider fatigue. Cruising speed can be set from approximately 50km/h to 160km/h at fourth gear or above. A switch on the right handlebar can be pressed to put cruise control into standby, and the selector switch (up/down) on the left handlebars allows the rider to adjust the speed up and down accordingly.

Suzuki’s famous Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) is now available on a V-STROM for the very first time, offering riders the choice of three difference output characteristic modes. A-mode provides the sharpest throttle response, B-mode provides a slightly softer throttle response and C-mode provides the softest response of the three modes.

Another Suzuki first is the Hill Hold, Slope Dependent and Load Dependent control systems available on XT. Hill hold control automatically applies the rear brake when the motorcycle is stopped on an upward slope to prevent rollback when the brakes and clutch are released. Slope Dependent control constantly monitors posture and if required controls brake pressure to prevent rear wheel lift during downhill braking.

Load Dependent system supports optimal braking by compensating for varying load conditions such as the difference between riding solo or with a pillion and loaded luggage vs unloaded.     

An updated traction control system now features three modes of control (previously two) inspiring greater confidence in diverse riding conditions. Mode 1 is for spirited riding with minimal level of intervention. Mode 2 is ideal for commuting and regular riding conditions and Mode 3 is best suited for poorer riding conditions such as wet or cold roads as it offers the highest level of intervention.

An upgraded Bosch inertial measurement unit (IMU) equipped on the XT model now works on 6-directions along 3-axis rather than the 5-axis of the previous system. This allows it to detect pitch, roll, and yaw movements based on the angular rate and acceleration. This new high-performance 6-direction IMU combines a 3-axis angular rate sensor (gyrometer) and a 3-axis acceleration sensor in a single compact unit.

The motion track brake system exclusive to XT combines information on the posture of the vehicle from the new IMU with the front and rear wheel speeds. This allows the ABS to activate not only in a straight line but also when the vehicle is leaning. When the brake lever or pedal is operated, this system instantly assesses the need of ABS operation by calculating the posture of the vehicle and front and rear wheel speeds. When judging the need of operation, ABS unit decreases braking pressure, and continues to control the increase/decrease of the pressure according to the traction available.Suzuki V-Strom Dr Big

This latest ABS system allows the rider to select from 2-levels of intervention. Mode 1 provides minimal intervention and is suitable for flat dirt roads, whilst Mode 2’s intervention timing is earlier than Mode 1 and is ideal for normal tarmac roads.

A newly added Combined Brake System automatically applies pressure to the rear brake to help stablise the motorcycle when the front brake pressure rises to a certain degree.

An updated windscreen design compliments the new exterior design. Developed utilising wind-tunnel testing, the new screen can be finely adjusted without tools to one of 11 positions across a 50mm vertical range.

The instrument panel presents all required information on a full LCD screen using a clean and intuitive layout with information displayed in order of priority. Included in the display are the speedometer, tachometer (full pixel digital display), gear position indicator, odometer, trip meter (A, B), instantaneous fuel consumption, average fuel consumption, driving range, fuel level indicator, engine coolant temperature indicator, ambient air temperature indicator, clock, voltage meter, service reminder, SDMS mode, traction control mode, cruise control indicator, ABS mode, hill hold indicator, engine rpm indicator light, frost indicator light, turn signal indicator light, high beam indicator light, traction control indicator light, ABS indicator light, and neutral indicator light.

A USB port is located left side of the instrument panel. It can be used as a power source for charging a smartphone, navigation system, or other similar device.Suzuki V-Strom 1050 Dr Big

The lightweight and compact chassis is the core factor in achieving the V-STROM’s comfortable and enjoyable character. The narrow width of its V-twin engine allows the motorcycle to maintain a slim body shape even with a 20L fuel tank present, allowing the rider to easily reach the ground with their feet.

Utilising a cast aluminium twin-spar frame featuring the optimal rigidity balance for exceptional stability and handling performance. The frame supports everything a rider requires to embark on their next big adventure from straight line stability to smooth and natural cornering with high levels of traction.

The 43mm KYB inverted front fork features adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload and can be tailored based on rider preference and usage.

The V-Strom 1050 XT also sports a completely new seat design that allows the seat height to be adjusted an additional 20mm higher than the standard position. The KYB rear shock features adjustable spring preload via an external hand dial to easily facilitate adjustments between riding solo, with pillion or fully loaded with luggage.

TOKICO Monobloc radial mounted front brake calipers handle stopping duties matched with dual 310mm floating discs provide strong braking performance with remarkable feel. 

The footrests are constructed of tough steel and have been redesigned to make it easier for the rider to stand on flat dirt, and are also wider than the previous version.

Protection and convenience on the XT is taken to the next level with an aluminium under cowling and accessory bar guarding underneath and side of the engine whilst stronger hand guards have been employed to protect rider’s hands from wind, rain and flying stones. The lightweight centre stand is well balanced and is useful when performing maintenance tasks and loading luggage. Suzuki V-Strom 1050 Dr Big

Wire-spoked aluminium rims are fitted as standard on the XT model offering improved road absorption whilst the standard model is equipped with 10-spoke cast aluminium wheels. Both variants are shod with Bridgestone Battlax Adventure A41 tyres.

A vertically stacked LED headlight and LED rear combination light deliver excellent visibility and stylish looks, the XT also features LED indicators as standard equipment. 

Other niceties include Suzuki’s Low RPM assist system which monitors and automatically raises the idle speed when taking off from a stop or when riding slowly through traffic and 

Suzuki’s Easy Start System which provides ultra-convenient one-touch engine starting.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

(Contributed post for our Southern California readers)

If you ride a motorcycle in Orange County or anywhere else in southern California, you know that it’s dangerous. With their high-speed capabilities and minimal frames, motorcycles offer their riders little protection. Because of this, even a minor motorcycle accident can result in severe injuries. We’ve compiled a list of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents on the California freeways. If you do ride a bike, wear your helmet and body protection.

Ten Common Causes of California Motorcycle Collisions

There are many hazards for motorcyclists—always from other drivers, but also often from themselves.

1. Improper or unsafe lane changes

When you’re riding a motorcycle, drivers frequently don’t see your minimal profile. When you change lanes, it’s important that you’re not relying on other drivers to break or to expand the gap you’re moving into. If you don’t have a wide berth, remain in your lane.

2. Speeding or driving too fast for conditions

There’s no doubt about it. Bikes are fast. But they’re also harder to control at higher speeds. You can also override your headlights, which means that things can appear in the road too quickly for you to react. In addition to causing motorcycle accidents, speed can make accidents more dangerous.

3. Drunk driving

When a car driver is drunk, they endanger everyone on the road. While motorcyclists are also a danger to other drivers, the primary peril is to themselves. Alcohol affects coordination and slows reaction times.

4. Lane splitting

This occurs when a motorcyclist rides between two lanes, usually to avoid traffic. The danger comes when cars suddenly shift lanes, blocking the motorcyclist’s path or squeezing the gap.

5. Car doors opening

Many drivers forget to check their side mirror before opening the door. If they don’t hear a motorcyclist, they’re likely to block the rider’s path with the door. This is also dangerous for bicyclists and skaters.

6. Rear-end collisions

If you stop suddenly, there’s a good chance that an inattentive driver will continue forward or notice you too late and strike you from the rear. This is one of the most common types of vehicle accidents.

7. Inexperienced motorcyclists

Newer motorcyclists are more prone to accidents. Riding a motorcycle is a skill that takes time to develop. When you’re learning, stay off of busy roadways and try to ride during slower times.

8. Left-turn intersection accidents

Intersections are dangerous, but when you add to it the smaller profile of a motorcycle, they can be a nightmare. Statistically, making a left turn is the most dangerous type of turn at an intersection.

9. Road hazards

From construction sites to potholes to inconsistent surfaces, when you’re on two wheels as opposed to four, the smallest inconsistency can cause a rider to lose balance and lose control.

10. Defective equipment

Having properly maintained equipment is always important on the road, but when you’re riding a motorcycle, having even a minor malfunction can cause your bike to throw you, causing a hazardous situation.

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in southern California, call an Orange County motorcycle accident attorney for a free consultation.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Retrospective: 1937-1940 Matchless Model X Sports Tourist

1937-1940 Matchless Model X Sports Tourist
Story and photos by: Clement Salvadori

What was this Model X? Collier & Sons began building bicycles in the 1800s, and then moved on to the motorized version, first budying engines to put into homebuilt frames and then building their own V-twin in 1912. After father died in 1926 the sons decided to take the company public and changed the name to Matchless Motor Cycles (Colliers) Ltd. In 1929 the 982cc (actual size) sidevalve V-twin was designated as the Model X—which was the predecessor to the Model X Sports Tourist that we are covering here. This long-wheelbase bike with a heavy frame was mostly sold to the sidecar crowd—which was mainly families in that time of the Great Depression: mom on the back, two kids and the dog in the hack.

Move forward seven years, the Depression was easing, and in time the X became the X/2, followed by the X/3 and X/4, each with very minor changes. 1937 rolled in and Matchless decided to make major changes, lightening and shortening the chassis and calling it the Model X Sports Tourist, putting it more in line with the sporting desires of the solo rider. Maybe this was the first sport-touring bike on the market.

The new X had 57 inches between the axles. By comparison, two famous Brit V-twins of the era, like the Vincent, had 56.5, and Brough-Superior, 59. The frame was a full-cradle, with twin downtubes attached to a pair of arms that supported the engine and transmission, continuing on to be part of the rigid rear end—pretty much standard for the day. An excellent Brampton girder fork sat up front, with the links forged and not stamped. Two large rotary friction dampers were on the sides, focused on vertical movement—the 1930s equivalent of air-adjustable fork legs. A third very traditional damper, which many readers will have seen on telescopic forks, was above the steering head to control sideways movement.

All of this was done to improve handling, with the steering reputed to be light, precise and accurate. As one 1937 road test reported, the bike “…laid over in fast corners without any sign of snaking or wandering.”

1937-1940 Matchless Model X Sports Tourist

Wheels were both 19 inches, with a 3.25 tire on the front, a 4.00 on the rear. Braking was effected by narrow eight-inch drums with single leading shoes, and while the tester called them good, that would hardly apply today. Back then traffic was light, and riders were taught to think far ahead.

Handling was one thing, power was another. The bore and stroke was perfectly square, at 85.5 mm, and the compression ratio was 5.5:1. The two cylinders had an included angle of 50 degrees, and were slightly offset to allow the two connecting rods to sit side by side on the crankshaft. The cylinder heads had been modified to improve combustion, and thus create a little more power. A single Amal carburetor, with remote float bowl, sat on the left side of the engine.

At the base of the cylinders, on the right side, two shiny aluminum rectangles provided access to the pushrods for adjustment purposes. It was a dry-sump engine, with the oil tank beneath the rider’s saddle having a piecrust filler cap, easy to grip. A rotating plunger pump made sure the oil went where it was supposed to go.

A Lucas magneto in front of the cylinders and a dynamo sitting above the gearbox provided electricity. The mag provided spark to the two plugs, while the dyno kept a six-volt battery charged, and a large headlight showed the way at night. The taillight was adequate, but apparently Matchless was not much interested in brake lights.

1937-1940 Matchless Model X Sports Tourist

Some 25 horsepower (estimated) went out to the single-row primary chain, and back to a Burman clutch. The polished round panel on the primary case could be easily removed if any clutch adjustment was needed. It controlled access to the four-speed Burman transmission, with another chain going back to the rear wheel. Of course, adjusting the primary chain meant moving the gearbox and then adjusting the main chain as well. Bikes of yore were labor intensive.

Lots of painted metal, with the two fenders and toolbox, along with the gas tank. The sprung seat provided adequate comfort if the road was not too bumpy. In the center of the 3-gallon gas tank sat the ignition switch, a trouble light, ammeter and a chrome cover for the missing optional clock. In 1938 Matchless changed its name to Associated Motorcycles Ltd. after buying the Sunbeam motorcycle company, and the “M” badge sprouted wings.

Performance was acceptable, considering the old design. A reviewer wrote that as soon as the bike got under way “… the rider forgets that he is astride a heavyweight machine.” The X could reach 70 mph in the standing quarter-mile and had a top speed of about 80. Which brings to mind the fact that George Brough used a modified Matchless engine in his SS80 Brough-Superior. Brough sold his machines for 90 pounds, whereas the Matchless version was less than 70 quid.

1937-1940 Matchless Model X Sports Tourist

However, the Triumph Speed Twin and BSA Gold Star single both appeared in the late 1930s, 500cc OHV bikes that weighed 100 pounds less than the X, put out roughly the same power, and consequently could dance around this flathead 990cc.

World War II began in 1939, and the factory turned to making 350 singles for the military. Leftover parts saw a few X models being built in early 1940, and the model was not resurrected after the war. 

1937-1940 Matchless Model X Sports Tourist

1937-1940 Matchless Model X Sports Tourist Photo Gallery:

Source: RiderMagazine.com

Rain alert: yet another unpredictable weekend approaches

As always, rain will throw a spanner in the works. As neutrals, it’s thrilling. But it’s going to be even more thrilling this year when the Championship is at its unpredictable best. Heading to the Red Bull Ring, Quartararo holds a 17-point advantage over nearest rival Maverick Viñales (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) knowing it’s a track that, on paper, isn’t well suited to his YZR-M1. Moreover, Quartararo is one of the riders who has yet to partake in a wet MotoGP™ race. So how does he feel about the prospect of a weekend that is most likely not going to be fully dry?

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

iXS releases new 208 2.0 Adventure Helmet

The iXS 208 2.0 is a new adventure helmet from the brand priced at $140 for the US market. 

Begin Press Release: 


iXS 208 2.0

Tough enduro helmet made for thrilling on- and off-road adventures. Up for anything!

208 2.0

Adventure is calling and you are closer to nature than you think. But where to go? You leave that open – what matters is the journey, not the destination. If the paved road suddenly ends, that doesn’t mean you have to turn back. Hardly any path is too bad for you. You love to explore new tours and areas. Daring routes away from the main traffic arteries are the perfect area. White areas on maps exert a magical attraction on you and awaken the spirit of discovery in you. But this isn’t a problem with the right equipment and, on the contrary, you can really cut loose.

The new iXS 208 2.0 enduro helmet with its great features is perfect for your experience. It’s a constant, safe companion on all terrains and tracks. The protruding chin protection makes it easier to breathe and provides additional fresh air. Thanks to the generous ventilation openings on the forehead and chin, you won’t sweat easily. You are equipped for all forms of daylight with the integrated sun shield that folds down. The large sight radius provides perfect all-round vision and is protected by a large, high quality visor. To prevent the visor from tarnishing, you can insert a Pinlock® double-glass pane – the visor is already prepared for this.

208 2.0

The helmet roof attached over the forehead serves equally as protection against the sun, stones and dirt. It is individually adjustable and shaped aerodynamically that few turbulences will occur even at higher speeds. The high quality inner lining is easy to remove and can be washed, so you will always feel refreshed. A practical micro closure release (click clasp) makes it easy to put on and take off the helmet quickly.

The dynamic shape of the shell in combination with the high-quality visor locking mechanism reduces wind noise to a minimum. The timeless design of this on-road and off-road helmet goes with the high level of comfort when it’s being worn, showing nothing has been compromised. You are guaranteed to be correctly equipped and ready to start on the next tour with the iXS 208 2.0. It’s available in three colour versions of matt black-white, matt black-red-white and matt black-blue-white, each from XS – 2XL.

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Recommended Retail Price: US $ 139.95

Colors: matt black-white (M31), matt black-red-white (M32), matt black-blue-white (M34)

Sizes: XS – 2XL

PRODUCT FEATURES

Polycarbonate enduro helmet with visor

  • Forehead and chin ventilation
  • Clear, scratch resistant visor
  • Pinlock® prepared
  • Integrated flip-down sun visor (interior)
  • Micro closure (click clasp)
  • Removable high quality lining
  • New matt lacquer technology – NMT

MATERIAL
Lining: 100% polyester

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